By Scout Nelson
North Dakota State University’s North Central Research Extension Center in Minot will host a cattle backgrounding program on Thursday, Nov. 6, 2025, from 6 to 8:30 p.m.
The program is aimed at beef producers seeking information and tools to determine if backgrounding calves fits into their operations this year.
Backgrounding involves growing weaned calves on forage or grain-based rations before finishing, helping producers add value, manage feed resources, and adapt to market fluctuations.
“Livestock markets, environmental conditions, feed costs and availability fluctuate from year to year and impact the decision of whether or not to background cattle,” says Lacey Quail, NDSU Extension livestock management specialist. “Profitability hinges on many factors, some that can be controlled and many that cannot.”
The program will cover key topics including backgrounding and finishing budgets, cattle markets and price forecasts, backgrounding rations, cost of gain, calf health, and dry lot management. Presenters will share insights from current NDSU Extension research, offering practical tools to improve efficiency, manage risk, and make informed decisions.
“Backgrounding can be a valuable management tool to add flexibility and capture additional value in a calf crop,” says Paige Brummund, NDSU Extension agent in Ward County.
“This program is designed to help producers evaluate the economics, nutrition and management factors that influence profitability so they can make informed decisions that best fit their operation.”
Speakers will include faculty and specialists from NDSU’s Department of Animal Sciences, Department of Agribusiness and Applied Economics, and the Carrington and North Central Research Extension Centers.
Attendance is free, and supper will be provided. Registration is required at ndsu.ag/cattlebkrnd25. For more information, contact Lacey Quail at lacey.quail@ndsu.edu or Paige Brummund at paige.f.brummund@ndsu.edu.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-imaginegolf
Categories: North Dakota, Livestock, Beef Cattle