Canadian Beef Cattle Podcast

Including alfalfa in grazing systems can boost soil fertility, improve forage yields and support better animal performance while also offering some drought tolerance. In this episode, we explore how producers can manage bloat risks through key practices and careful monitoring to confidently capture the benefits of this legume crop.   Relevant Links: Alfalfa Can Be Grazed Safely: Things to Think About Before Turning Cows Out on High-Legume Pastures (article) Grazing Management (webpage) Forage Species (webpage) Gross Margins Calculator (interactive tool)

This special episode brings together key insights, tips and strategies from multiple past episodes into one must-listen edition. Whether you’re a new producer or a seasoned rancher, this episode is packed with practical advice to help you achieve a smooth and successful grazing season - now all that's needed is some timely rain.   Relevant Links Cracking the Code on Grazing Management Terminology: Animal Units, AUMS & How to Apply Them (article)   Developing a Grazing Plan (article)   Optimizing Pasture Health: A Practical Guide to Implementing "Take Half, Leave Half" Grazing (article)   Two Methods, Four Steps for Calculating Carrying Capacity (article)   Grazing Cattle on Cropland Can be Mutually Beneficial (article)   Grazing Management (webpage)  

Pastures play a vital role in beef cattle operations, but effective grazing management goes beyond simply turning cattle out on grass. In this episode, we explore how managing different pasture types and focusing on four key principles helps maintain productivity, support pasture health, conserve water and protect soil.   Relevant Links:    This Grazing Season, Remember the Four Principles of Pasture Management (article) Carrying Capacity Calculator 2026 (interactive tool) Plan to Adapt When Grazing (article) Adaptive Grazing and Grazing Management (webinar) Grazing Management (webpage) Calf 911 - How to Manage Colostrum to Allow Newborn Calves to Thrive (resources)

In this episode, we look at how high crop prices, driven in part by rising global food demand, biofuel incentives, and risk perspective and management, are encouraging the conversion of marginal grasslands into cultivated cropland. As more hay and pastureland is turned over to crop production, wildlife habitat becomes increasingly fragmented, leaving isolated “islands” of grass that may be too small to sustain functioning grassland ecosystems. We explore research using Alberta as a case study to understand the impact that conversion of hay and pasturelands into cropland could have on ecosystem intactness and biodiversity.   Relevant Links: Divergent trends in structural landscape connectivity from historic and potential future grassland conversion in Alberta, Canada (journal article)   Beef Cattle and the Carbon Cycle (article)   Environmental Footprint of Beef Production (webpage)   Gross Margins Calculator (interactive tool)

Whether beef cattle producers retain females from their own herd or purchase them, replacement heifers are a key investment in the future of the herd. In this episode, two producers share their experiences with selecting and managing heifers, exploring how improving cow longevity can increase lifetime calf production, enhance returns and lower overall costs. Relevant Links:  Selecting Replacement Heifers: Boosting Longevity and Return on Investment (article)   Replacement Heifer Calculator (interactive tool)   Cost of Raising Replacement Heifers (resource)   Heifer Development (webpage)   Cow-Calf Production Indicators Calculator (interactive tool)

Canadian beef producers have been harvesting and feeding silage for decades. There are benefits to silage like flexibility when it comes to weather, producing more feed on fewer acres and potential cost savings, alongside challenges such as added equipment and infrastructure needs. This episode features the experiences of three farmers, highlighting the importance of learning, planning and adapting when incorporating silage on their farms.   Relevant Links Silage is Top Choice for These Three Beef Producers (article) Silage Cost of Production (article) Feed Quality, Testing & Analysis for Beef Cattle (webpage) Water Systems Calculator (interactive tool)

In this episode, we visit a beef farm in Napanee, Ontario, to share one producer’s experience with water management. Hear how practical solutions like improved drainage and filtration, protecting natural water sources and capturing rainwater from barn roofs helped improve water quality and supply for cattle.   Relevant Links:  Fences, Filters and Eavestroughs: Innovative Water Initiatives to Improve Herd Health (article) Water Systems That Work: A Practical Guide for Beef Producers (resource) Water Systems Calculator (interactive tool) Water Management Resources (webpage)

This episode explores how artificial insemination (AI) can help beef producers accelerate genetic progress in their herds. Although AI has been available for more than six decades, adoption among Canadian beef producers has remained relatively low. The episode features producers who are successfully using AI to improve herd genetics and meet their breeding goals, while also sharing practical tips and key considerations to help ensure successful artificial insemination programs.   Relevant Links:  Boosting Herd Genetics: Artificial Insemination Brings Big Benefits to Small Beef Herds (article) Artificial Insemination (webpage) Why Use Artificial Insemination (webinar) Calf 911 - How to Evaluate Newborn Calves Using the Calf Vigor Scoring System (resources)

Diseases often begin when a susceptible calf encounters the wrong combination of microbes, weather and management stresses. This episode explores how pneumonia develops in calves and why early protection against viral infections is key to preventing respiratory disease. It also discusses emerging research on whether vaccinating calves against bovine coronavirus, typically associated with scours, may help reduce pneumonia risk, while highlighting the importance of effective vaccination strategies and working with veterinarians to support calf health and herd productivity.   Vaccination Infographics & Guidelines (resources) Stacking Good Decisions to Keep Calves Healthy (article) Vaccines: Use as Directed (article) BCRC Webinar Series (registration)

As the seasons change, early-spring grazing serves as a strategic bridge from winter feeding to summer grazing. Rather than simply turning cattle out, success depends on carefully managing cool-season grasses to balance animal nutrition, protect regrowth and maintain pasture longevity. In this episode, we explore how grazing in April and May can help beef producers reduce reliance on stored feed while maximizing stockpiled perennial forage, where and when early-season grazing fits into an operation, and how thoughtful planning and management set the stage for a productive grazing season.   Relevant Links:  Extend the Grazing Season: Using Stockpiled Forage for Early Spring Grazing (article) Nutrition in Beef Cattle (webpage) Calf 911 - How to Evaluate Newborn Calves Using the Calf Vigor Scoring System (resources)

Ideally, after a calf is born, things go well, and the cow and newborn calf thrive. However, it is important for producers to know how to assess calves for subtle signs of distress or trauma that can occur due to a difficult calving. This episode will review how to access calf VIGOR, how it is scored and when to intervene.    Relevant Links: How to Evaluate Newborn Calves Using the Calf Vigor Scoring System (article) Calving and Calf Management (webpage) Calf 911 Resources (resources) How to Spot Dehydration in Young or Scouring Calves (article and video) Water Systems Calculator (interactive tool)

Surveys show many producers believe they operate a closed herd, but what does “closed” really mean? For some, it simply means being genetically closed by raising their own replacements and cleanup bulls, using artificial insemination for new genetics and avoiding the purchase of outsourced cattle. However, being a truly closed herd goes far beyond genetics. A closed herd also works to eliminate as many potential sources of disease introduction as possible. In this episode, we take a closer look at what it truly means to run a closed herd.   Relevant Links: Think You Have a Closed Herd? Think Again (article) Biosecurity Resources (resources) Biosecurity (webpage)

Most of the research on effective practices for reducing pre-weaning death loss in Canadian beef calves was conducted more than two decades ago. This raises an important question for today’s industry: which calving practices and management work best for Canadian cow-calf producers in 2026? In this episode, we share results from a producer survey conducted through the Canadian Cow-Calf Surveillance Network (C3SN), highlighting on-farm practices linked to lower risk of scours, pneumonia, and mortality outbreaks and what this means for you. Calf Health Management - What Does the Science Say? (article)   Calving Seasons (webpage)   Early Calf Life Survival (webinar)   Calf 911: How to Manage Colostrum to Allow Newborn Calves to Thrive (resources)

Most beef producers are familiar with the frustration of dealing with a “dummy calf” - a calf that won’t suckle, won’t stand and seems unresponsive despite intensive care. In this episode, we explore one of the most common underlying causes: respiratory acidosis. We’ll break down what causes respiratory acidosis, the symptoms to watch for and practical treatment options to help give these calves the best chance at survival.   Relevant Links:  How to Spot Respiratory Acidosis in a Newborn Calf (article) How to Evaluate Newborn Calves Using the Calf Vigor Scoring System (article) Calf 911 Resources (resources) How to Spot Dehydration in Young or Scouring Calves (article and video)

Bull sale season is approaching, making now the perfect time to define your bull selection criteria and budget. In this episode, we discuss why choosing the right herd sire is one of the fastest ways to improve herd genetics and how to match bull selection to your operational goals. In this episode, we’ll talk through which traits may be priorities for you, how to stay within budget and how to build a herd for long-term success.   Relevant Links: Take the Bull by the Horns (article) Records for Tracking Genetic Improvements (online course) Bull Management (webpage) Bull Valuation Calculator (interactive tool) Building a Herd That Works: EPDs, Genomics and Smart Genetic Investments (article) Cracking the Heritability Code - Choosing Traits That Pay Off (article) BCRC Webinar Series

Colostrum is essential for newborn calves, supplying the antibodies and nutrients they need to build immunity, stay warm and fight early-life diseases like scours and pneumonia. This episode covers key colostrum management practices to help calves get a strong, healthy start.   Relevant Links:  Calf 911: How to Manage Colostrum to Allow Newborn Calves to Thrive (article) Calving & Calf Management (webpage) Cow-Calf Production Indicator Calculator (interactive tool)

Research studies don't always agree, and that doesn't mean that the research is flawed. It is often because context and study design matter. Systematic reviews help by combining all relevant research to identify consistent findings and help turn science into practical guidance. In this episode, we discuss a systematic receive on management practices linked to preweaning death loss in beef calves and insights from 12 veterinary experts on which practice offers the greatest benefit to cow-calf producers.    Relevant Links: Calving Seasons (webpage) Early Calf Life Survival (webinar) Calf 911: How to Manage Colostrum to Allow Newborn Calves to Thrive (resources)

The most important day of a calf’s life is its first. Several key factors influence whether a newborn calf gets off to a strong start and research shows that the first 24 hours are critical for survival through weaning and beyond. This episode will explore when intervention may be necessary and highlights the importance of follow-up care such as ensuring the calf consumes adequate colostrum and providing a clean environment.   Relevant Links: Top Tips for a Smooth Calving Season (article) Ready, Set, Calve: How to Prepare Yourself and Your Beef Operation for the Upcoming Calving Season (article) Calf 911 Resources (resources) How Fresh Pens and Pastures Prevent Calf Losses (article) BCRC Webinar Series

The Canadian Beef Cattle Podcast has reached a major milestone - Episode 100! To mark the occasion, this episode brings together key insights, tips and strategies from multiple past episodes into one must-listen edition. Whether you’re a new producer or a seasoned rancher, this episode is packed with practical advice to help you achieve a smooth and successful calving season.   Relevant Links: Calving and Calf Management (webpage) Calf 911 - How to Intervene with a Difficult Calving (article) Calf 911 - How to Spot Dehydration in Young Calves (article) Proper Management Key to Reducing Calf Scours (article) Calm, Cool and Collected - Prepare for a Smooth and Healthy Calving Season (article)

Grading cameras are used to predict carcass yield. However, a team of researchers has found that camera grading technology can do more than simply predict the five retail yield classes that Canada is currently using. It can also identify differences between carcasses, the composition and potentially the value of individual primal and retail cuts for both fed cattle and cull cows. Listen to this episode to learn more.   Relevant Links:  Carcass Grading (webpage) Beef Beyond Borders (article) Beef Quality Audits (webpage) Can Grading Cameras Predict More than Overall Carcass Yield? (article)

Keeping Canada free from foreign animal diseases like Foot-and-Mouth Disease is a shared responsibility. In this episode, we focus on what beef producers and other agricultural travelers need to know. Including travel guidelines, simple prevention steps, and key resources to help safeguard our beef industry from potential disease threats while traveling.   Relevant Links:  Travel Safe: Stop Foot and Mouth Disease at the Gate (article) Foot and Mouth Disease (webpage) Calf 911: How to Manage Colostrum to Allow Newborn Calves to Thrive (resources)

Beef producers know that mineral supplementation is essential for herd health — but choosing the right product can feel overwhelming. With tubs and bags in every color, price range, and formulation, it’s hard to know what your cattle actually need. In this episode, we cut through the confusion to help you make informed decisions about mineral programs. Learn what minerals matter most, how to assess your herd’s needs, and the best ways to deliver them efficiently. Tune in for practical insights and trusted resources to support your herd’s performance and profitability.   Relevant Links:  Be Mindful of Minerals (article) Nutrition in Beef Cattle (webpage) Supplementation Matters - Navigating Trace Mineral Requirements of a Beef Herd (podcast & article) Copper Deficiency Takes Heavy Toll (article) A Tool for Evaluating Feed Test Results (interactive tool)

This episode highlights new insights from the Beef Cattle Research Council’s latest report on management trends in Canadian cow–calf operations. Drawing on data from the 2022–23 Canadian Cow-Calf Survey, the Census of Agriculture, and multiple academic studies, the report tracks adoption of 31 practices across reproductive management, calf health, herd management, forage utilization, environmental stewardship, and record-keeping.   What Canadian Cow-Calf Producers Are (and Aren't) Adopting (article) Results of the Inaugural Canadian Cow-Calf Survey (article) Cow-Calf Production Indicator Calculator (interactive tool)

Past research has measured how long residues from growth promoters stay around in a feedlot environment. It showed that certain ones dissipated very quickly, while some could still be found on the pen floor for up to five months after they were last fed. In this episode, we will hear results from a follow-up study that looked at whether composting manure, stockpiling it, or incorporating it into the soil might help to break down these residues.   Relevant Links:    Growth Promotants And The Environment (article) Can We Replace Growth Promotants? (article) Exploring Growth Promotants Used In Feedlot Cattle (article) Body Condition (webpage)

Extended winter grazing can lower feed costs, improve soil fertility, reduce fuel use, and distribute manure more evenly across pastures. Success, however, depends on meeting cattle’s nutritional needs at different stages of growth and pregnancy. In this episode, we explore adaptive winter grazing strategies and hear from three experienced Alberta producers as they share their top tips and lessons learned to help you make extended grazing work on your operation.   Relevant Links:  Adaptive Winter Grazing Strategies (article) Extended Grazing (webpage) A Quarter-Century of Progress with Extended Grazing (podcast & article) Water Systems Calculator (interactive tool)

Bale feeding is common across Canada for all classes of cattle especially during winter months, but how you feed those bales can make a big difference. In this episode, we break down the pros and cons of three common approaches — rolling out or processing bales to feed on pasture, bale grazing and using round bale feeders.   Relevant Links: Bale Feeding Options: Pros and Cons of Common Strategies (article) Stored Forages (webpage) Nutrition in Beef Cattle (webpage) Body Condition (webpage)

Canada’s beef industry is built on exports — with most heading to the U.S. and Japan as the second-largest market in 2024. Highly marbled beef is prized differently across countries. Canada and Japan use different grading systems, including different grading sites. The ribeye marbling from the same carcass will always score higher in Japan than in Canada. This episode explores research comparing the different grading systems and the opportunities associated for Canada’s beef industry.   Relevant Links:  Carcass Grading (webpage) BRD Vaccination Cost-Benefit Calculator (interactive tool) 

Bale grazing can cut costs, save labour, and boost pasture health—but it comes with a learning curve. In this episode, three Canadian beef producers share their experiences, tips, and lessons learned on extending winter grazing and why it’s been a game changer for their operations.   Relevant Links: Bale Grazing Checks the Boxes for Three Canadian Producers (article) Beat Costs and Boost Yields With Bale Grazing (article) Extended Grazing (webpage) Alberta Beef, Forage & Grazing Centre, Pasture 101, Extended Grazing Systems (webpage) Evaluating Feed Test Results (interactive tool)  

Nitrates can pose a serious risk in beef cattle diets when consumed at high levels. Understanding how nitrates work, when they become a concern, and how to manage them effectively is key to protecting both your herd and your bottom line. In this episode, we break down the science, the risks, and the practical management strategies you need to know.   Relevant Links:  Feed Testing: A Tool for Better Returns (article) Don't Roll The Dice on Forage Quality - Feed With a Plan (article) BRD Vaccination Cost-Benefit Calculator (interactive tool)

High-grain feedlot diets improve feed efficiency and marbling, but they must be managed carefully to protect cattle health and welfare. Forage, often silage, provides the fiber needed to support rumen function—but not all fibers are created equal. The real challenge is striking the right forage-to-concentrate balance, and finding the right type and level of fiber. This episode explores research around this topic and more.    Relevant Links:  Optimizing Feedlot Efficiency (webpage) Feed Grains For Beef Cattle (webpage) A Tool for Evaluating the Economic Value of Feeds Based on Nutrient Content (interactive tool)

Water is the most critical nutrient for beef cattle, with shortages having immediate and severe impacts — especially in heat or drought. This episode highlights the importance of well-designed water systems for cattle health, productivity, and pasture use, and introduces the BCRC’s updated Water Systems Calculator to help producers weigh costs, benefits, and payback.   Relevant Links:  Tap Into Savings: Comparing Water Systems for Better Beef Herd Performance (article) Economics of Water Systems Calculator (interactive tool) Water Management for Beef Cattle (webpage) Preconditioning & Backgrounding Calculator (interactive tool)  

For Canadian farmers and ranchers, extended grazing systems have proven their worth over the past 25 years—cutting feed costs, improving efficiency, and benefiting the environment. Compared to conventional drylot systems, extended grazing reduces expenses tied to labour, equipment, transportation, planting, harvest, storage, infrastructure, and manure management. In this episode, we’ll explore the history of extended grazing and the progress made along the way.   Relevant Links:  A Quarter-Century of Progress with Extended Grazing (article) Extended Grazing (webpage) Evaluating Feed Test Results (interactive tool)

Transport regulations have renewed attention on the role of rest stops for weaned calves. While the idea is that breaks during long-haul transport might reduce stress and improve animal welfare, research from 2018–2020 tells a different story. Across all trials, rest stops showed no consistent benefits—and calves that rested actually carried more BRD-related bacteria than those hauled straight through. Tune in to learn why rest stops may pose more risk than reward.   Relevant Links:  Do Transport Rest Stops Put Calf Health at Risk? (article) Improving Calf Transportation (article) Transport (webpage) Preconditioning & Backgrounding Calculator (interactive tool)    

Over the past 25 years, research has helped producers who background and finish beef cattle gain a deeper understanding of how nutrition supports animal health and meets consumer needs. In this episode, we review the key changes over the years and how the industry has adapted to better align with evolving demand.   Relevant Links: Evolution in Cattle Feeding, Management and Consumer Demand (article) Nutrition in Beef Cattle (webpage) Hormones & Other Growth Promotants in Beef Production (webpage) Optimizing Feedlot Efficiency (webpage) Environmental Footprint of Beef Production (webpage) Weaning (webpage)    

Forage quality plays a critical role in cattle nutrition, yet it’s not always prioritized when management decisions are made. By focusing on quality, producers can often reduce costs—getting more from the forage they already have and cutting back on expensive concentrates and feed additives. In this episode, we explore key factors to consider for making the most of forage quality.   Relevant Links:  Looking to Make the Most of Forage Quality? Consider These Factors (article) A Tool for Evaluating Feed Test Results (interactive tool) Feed Quality, Testing & Analysis for Beef Cattle (webpage) An Introduction to Farm Records & Benchmarking (webpage) A Tool for Evaluating the Economic Value of Feeds Based on Nutrient Content (interactive tool)

Now that cattle feed has been—or is being—harvested, it’s a good time to start thinking about testing it. While a visual check can help you spot the difference between good and poor-quality feed, it won’t tell you much about energy or protein levels. Only a feed test can give you that information. In this episode, we’ll talk about why feed testing matters, how to do it properly, and how to make sense of the lab results.   Relevant Links:  Improving Your Bottom Line With the Power of Feed Testing (article) Have You Had Your Feed Tested? (article) Feed Quality, Testing & Analysis For Beef Cattle (webpage) A Tool for Evaluating the Economic Value of Feeds Based on Nutrient Content (interactive tool) Weaning (webpage)

Bovine Viral Diarrhea (BVD) is a serious disease that can lead to abortion, infertility, immune suppression, and calf losses. If the virus crosses the placenta in the first four months of gestation, calves may be born persistently infected and shed high levels of the virus throughout their lives—posing a major risk to unvaccinated cattle. In this episode, we explore why it’s critical to keep BVD out of your herd and how different vaccination protocols can help protect your cattle.   Relevant Links:  Vaccination Of The Beef Herd (webpage) Cost-Benefit of BVD Vaccinations (interactive tool) Economics of Pregnancy Testing Beef Cattle Model (interactive tool)

Biosecurity hazards on beef operations are sometimes overlooked, but the risk of introducing disease to your farm is real—and more common than many realize. This risk increases in the fall, when cattle return from community pastures, grazing leases, or pastures bordering neighbouring livestock. In this episode, we cover five practical strategies to help prevent sickness before it starts this fall.   Until the Cows Come Home: Five Strategies to Stop Sickness Before it Starts this Fall (article) Think you Have a Closed Herd? (interactive graphic) Getting the Dirt on Cleaning Versus Disinfecting (article) Always Look a Gift Cow in the Mouth (article) Tracking Genetic Improvements (course)

Have you ever wondered where your money really goes during the winter-feeding period? Feed costs are easy to identify in a beef cattle operation—but what about the hidden expenses quietly chipping away at your bottom line? That’s where yardage comes in. Yardage is a key factor in managing winter feeding costs for cow-calf operations. In this episode, we explore why yardage matters, how to measure and track it, and how to use those insights to make more informed decisions on your farm.   Understanding Yardage Costs in Cow-Calf Operations (article) Cow-Calf Yardage Calculator (interative tool) Cracking the Code on Grazing Management Terminology: Animal Units, AUMS, & How to Apply Them (article) Economics of Pregnancy Testing Beef Cattle Model (interactive tool)

Despite recent rain in some areas, drought continues to hit hard across many parts of Canada, with some regions facing multiple years of dry conditions. If you’re navigating another tough season, this episode shares practical strategies to help protect your beef cattle operation—and your own wellbeing—during drought.   Relevant Links:  Experiencing Drought? Five Things You Can Do to Help Manage Your Herd, Pastures, and Health (article) How are you, really? (anonymous self-check tool) Toxic Plants (webpage) Drought Management Strategies (webpage) Feed Test Evaluator (interactive tool) Tracking Genetic Improvements (course)

Grazing cattle on neighbouring farmland can benefit both cattle producers and crop farmers when done correctly. In this episode, we explore the advantages of bringing cattle and crops together, featuring experiences from producers in Saskatchewan, Manitoba, and Ontario who have successfully grazed cattle on neighbouring cropland.   Relevant Links: The Benefits of Bringing Cattle and Crops Together (article) Grazing Crops (article) Nutrition in Beef Cattle (webpage) Water Systems Calculator (interactive tool)

Raising cattle is a dirty job, and though we do our best to keep the dirt where it belongs, are we being mindful of the germs that could be lurking within? In this episode, we explore the difference between cleaning and disinfecting, how to choose the right products, and resources to help you keep your operation healthy.   Relevant Links:  Getting the Dirt on Cleaning Versus Disinfecting (article)  Preventing a Biosecurity Breach (article) Biosecurity (webpage) Feed Quality, Testing & Analysis for Beef Cattle (webpage and tools)

Cattle producers and veterinarians recognize the need for remote drug delivery devices (RDDDs) when animals can’t be safely caught, handling poses significant risk, or when timely treatment is critical for a positive outcome. In this episode, we explore when RDDD use is appropriate, the pros and cons of these tools, and resources available to help guide decision-making. Learn how to use RDDDs effectively while staying within beef quality guidelines and ensuring safety.   Relevant Links:  Remote Drug Delivery Devices: What You Need to Know (article) When and How to Treat a Beef Animal Using Remote Drug Delivery (video) Remote Drug Delivery Best Practices for RDDD (resource) Water Systems Calculator (interactive tool)

Dairy-beef refers to animals born from a dairy dam and a beef sire. Management practices for these calves can vary widely between operations. In this episode, we explore both the opportunities and challenges of raising dairy-beef, featuring insights from two experienced producers.   Producing Dairy-Beef: Starting off on the Right Hood (article) Dairy-Beef: Shifting From the Parlour to the Feedlot (article) Artificial Insemination (webpage) Value of Calving Distribution Calculator (interactive tool)

Every living thing contains carbon, and everything – including cattle and grasslands – plays a role in the carbon cycle. In this episode, we explore how the carbon cycle works, the role beef production plays in it, and how carbon sequestration and greenhouse gas emissions affect beef producers on their farms.   Beef Cattle and the Carbon Cycle (article) Carbon Cycle and Beef Cattle (webpage) Environmental Footprint of Beef Production (webpage) Cow-Calf Record-Keeping Course, Forage and Grasslands Records (course) 

Forage variety matters. A locally developed variety might not be the best choice for your situation and sometimes a variety developed elsewhere might be your best option. Drs. Bill Biligetu (University of Saskatchewan) and Annie Claessens (Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada) recently evaluated how different forage varieties performed under different growing conditions across Canada.   Relevant Links:  Choosing Forage Varieties Without Getting Lost in the Weeds (article) Forage U-Pick (interactive tool) Forage Species (webpage) Value of Calving Distribution Calculator (interactive tool)  

Does grazing management feel overwhelming—full of acronyms and jargon like AUs,  AUMs or AUEs that leave you scratching your head? You're not alone. In this episode, we break down what an Animal Unit (AU) is, how Animal Unit Months (AUMs) are calculated, and how to apply them to estimate forage requirements for different types of livestock. By understanding these, you'll be better equipped to match forage demand with supply and make more informed grazing decisions.   Cracking the Code on Grazing Management Terminology: Animals Units, AUMs, & How to Apply Them (article) Carrying Capacity Calculator (interactive tool) Grazing Management (webpage) Vaccination of the Beef Herd (webpage)  

As humans transitioned from nomadic hunter-gatherers to settled agricultural societies, domesticated cattle became a cornerstone of farming life. Their natural resilience to disease made them an ideal livestock choice. But even hardy animals like beef cattle face health threats. In this episode, we explore common high-risk situations that could compromise your herd's health—and share practical, preventative strategies producers can use to protect their cattle and keep herds thriving.   Relevant Links:  The Best Offense is Defense: 15 Plays to Keep you Beef Herd Safe (article) Think You Have a Closed Herd? (interactive resource) Biosecurity (webpage) Cow-Calf Record-Keeping Course, Forage and Grasslands Records (course) 

Developing a grazing plan is an important first step to ensure effective grazing management on an operation, and it can help save a producer on their cost of production in the long run. A grazing plan that matches animal numbers to predicted forage yields is something that should be done prior to animal turn out. This episode we will review several key steps that should be included in a grazing plan.   Relevant Links:  Developing a Grazing Plan: Making the Most of the Forage you Have Available (article) Grazing Management (webpage) Managing & Planning Grazing (webpage) BCRC Carrying Capacity Calculator (interactive tool) Vaccination of the Beef Herd (webpage)

Food safety underpins consumer confidence and demand for Canadian beef. Canada’s researchers develop effective solutions that help to prevent food safety problems from arising, and the check-off you pay helps fund their work.   Relevant Links:  Food Safety is Rocket Science (article) E.coli (webpage) BCRC Carrying Capacity Calculator (interactive tool)