By Scout Nelson
James Rogers, a forage crops production specialist from North Dakota State University Extension, stresses the importance of reproductive efficiency in cow-calf production systems for profitability.
According to him, managing cow body condition is crucial as it directly impacts reproductive performance, which is the main driver of profitability in these systems.
Rogers points out the cost of "non-productive days" in livestock – a measure initially used in the swine industry. He compares this to beef cows, emphasizing that they should ideally have zero non-productive days, being constantly in a state of lactation, gestation, or rebreeding.
He further explains that longer calving intervals in cows lead to higher maintenance costs and lower weaned calf production.
Research indicates that body condition scores (BCS) of cows at calving significantly affect their return to estrus. Cows with a BCS of 5 to 6 typically return to estrus within 50 to 60 days, whereas those at BCS 4 take around 70 days. With only 80 days from calving to rebreeding to maintain a 365-day calving cycle, managing body condition becomes critical.
Karl Hoppe, an NDSU Extension livestock systems specialist, adds that altering a cow's body condition score requires about 100 pounds of weight gain. He advises ranchers to assess the quality of their feed through forage tests, considering the economic impact of maintaining open cows.
Rogers and Hoppe also discuss the challenges of body condition score management, especially during extreme weather conditions. They encourage ranchers to use online resources and seek advice from Extension specialists and county agents to accurately assess body condition scores in their herds.
Addressing factors beyond body condition, NDSU Extension specialists suggest ranchers evaluate other aspects of their production system, including stocking rates, herd genetics, production records, and marketing plans for open cows.
This holistic approach, focusing on both body condition and overall system management, is essential for maintaining a healthy and profitable cowherd.
Photo Credit - gettyimages-baranozdemir
Categories: North Dakota, Livestock, Beef Cattle, Dairy Cattle