Canadian Beef Cattle Podcast

Weaning is one of the most critical and stressful events in a calf's life, and the way it is managed can have lasting effects on calf health, performance and overall welfare. In this episode, we explore the most common weaning methods used. We discuss the advantages, challenges and management consideration of each approach, including differences in labour requirements, calf stress and health outcomes, to help producers choose the weaning strategy that best fits their operation.    Relevant Links:  Choosing the Right Weaning Strategy for Your Beef Operation (article) Weaning (webpage) Pregnancy Detection Tool (interactive tool)  

Even clean pastures and well-maintained handling facilities can contain hidden hazards that are not immediately visible. A single piece of metal or a stray shotgun pellet can go unnoticed in cattle during production and may only be discovered during processing. This episode discusses common sources of foreign material, why foreign material contamination matters and what beef producers can do to reduce the risk of foreign material hazards on their operations.   Relevant Links:  Hidden in Plain Sight: Preventing Foreign Material in Cattle Hides and Meat (article) On-Farm Practices to Improve Food Safety (webpage) Foreign Material Contamination of Hides and Meat (resource) Injection Techniques Best Practices for Beef Cattle (resource) Injection Best Practices For Beef Cattle (article)

This special episode brings together key insights, tips and strategies from past episodes into one must-listen edition. Whether you’re a new producer or a seasoned rancher, this episode is packed with practical information to help you plan, prepare and feed with a plan this winter.   Relevant Links:  Improve Your Bottom Line With the Power of Feed Testing (article) Bale Feeding Options: Pros and Cons of Common Strategies (article) 11 Ways to Avoid Feed Waste this Winter (article) Don't Roll the Dice on Forage Quality: Feed With a Plan (article) A Tool for Evaluating Feed Test Results (interactive tool)

Biosecurity risks on beef operations are often underestimated. Diseases can be introduced through common practices such as shared fence lines, purchasing replacement animals, borrowing equipment, hosting visitors or wildlife interactions. In this episode, we discuss why no herd is completely closed and share practical steps to develop a biosecurity plan that helps protect herd health and reduce the risk of disease introduction. Relevant Links:  Prevent a Biosecurity Breach (article) Biosecurity (webpage) Biosecurity During Calving (webinar) Vaccination of the Beef Herd (webpage) Preconditioning & Backgrounding Calculator (interactive tool)  

In this episode, we look at what over 500 Canadians across the beef sector told the Beef Cattle Research Council to help guide research and knowledge mobilization priorities for the next five years through the development of the Five-Year Canadian Beef Research and Knowledge Mobilization Strategy. We’ll explore why having a shared strategy is important to help ensure research and communication efforts are focused on the industry’s most important challenges and how it can help ensure check-off dollars are invested strategically and effectively to develop the right solutions.   Relevant Links: Canadian Beef Research & Knowledge Mobilization Strategy (article) Five-Year Canadian Beef Research & Knowledge Mobilization Strategy (full document) Canadian Beef Advisors - Industry Goals to 2030 (webpage) Water Systems Calculator (interactive tool)

Growth implants are one of the most researched and cost-effective technologies available to beef producers, yet their use on Canadian cow-calf operations remains relatively low. In this episode we explore the performance and economic benefits of growth implants and address common questions about labour requirements, animal health, implant procedures and other factors that often influence adoption decisions.   Relevant Links: Maximizing Calf Performance: Where Do Implants Fit on a Cow-Calf Operation? (article) To Implant or Not? What Cow-Calf Producers Need to Know (webinar) Growth Implants on Cow-Calf Operations (webpage)v Preconditioning & Backgrounding Calculator (interactive tool)  

Inviting people onto your beef operation, whether for tours, sales or casual stock viewings, is a valuable way to build connections and share your story. However, it also comes with an important responsibility. Every visitor, from neighbours and tourists to friends and family, can unintentionally bring in or spread disease, making biosecurity a critical part of any on-farm visit. In this episode, we explore why biosecurity matters and break down the practical steps that can be taken before, during and after a visit to reduce disease risk.   Relevant Links: Welcoming Visitors: Show off Your Herd (article) Biosecurity (webpage) Cleaning & Disinfecting Footwear (resource) Feed Quality, Testing & Analysis for Beef Cattle (webpage and tools)

Not all forage is created equal, and not all cows have the same nutritional needs. Matching forage quality to herd requirements throughout the production year can reduce costs and improve productivity, but it requires more than just a visual assessment. Feed testing is the first step and understanding how to use the results is just as important. Nutrition drives reproduction and performance and guessing what's in your feed can leave both money and productivity on the table.   Relevant Links: Don't Roll the Dice on Forage Quality: Feed With a Plan (article) Feed Quality, Testing & Analysis for Beef Cattle (webpage) Forage Sampling Best Practices (infographic) Canadian Beef Industry Conference (webpage)

Beef is an excellent source of nutrients for people, but it is also an excellent nutrient source for microbes. To better understand how food safety is maintained in beef processing environments, researchers partnered with a major Canadian beef packing plant to examine bacteria throughout the cleaning process. Their findings reinforced the effectiveness of rigorous cleaning protocols and strong food safety standards practices, while also identifying opportunities for future research.   Relevant Links: Clean Cuts: Can We Improve Cleaning at Packing Plants? (article) In-plant Mitigation of Pathogens (webpage) Food Safety is Rocket Science (article) E.coli (webpage) Tracking Genetic Improvements (course)

 Haying season is underway and the work doesn't stop once the bales are made. Proper hay storage is essential for preserving valuable nutrients, minimizing losses and ensure livestock have access to high-quality feed throughout the winter months. In this short and sweet episode, we discuss six key considerations for maintaining hay quality in storage and maximizing the value of your feed supply.   Relevant Links: From Field to Feed: Six Things to Think About When Storing Hay (article) Stored Forage (webpage) Taking Some of the Guesswork out of Winter Feeding Challenges (article) Tracking Genetic Improvements (course)

Every breeding decision shapes the future of your herd. Cattle have a long generation interval, so the bulls and replacement females you select today can influence productivity, profitability and performance for years to come. Understanding which traits are highly heritable, how different traits are connected and how to use selection tools effectively can help ensure your breeding program is moving in the right direction. In this episode, we unpack heritability and trait correlations and explain how selection indexes can help beef producers make informed genetic decisions that support their production goals.   Relevant Links Cracking the Heritability Code: Choosing Traits That Pay Off (article) EPDs: What Do All Those Numbers Mean? (article) Breeding Cow Management (webpage) The Wire Newsletter (sign up)

In this episode, we explore how one ranching family in British Columbia is navigating the growing challenges of water stewardship, conservation and climate change. From upgrading irrigation systems, building off-stream watering infrastructure to protecting wildlife habitat and advocating for agricultural water rights, they demonstrate how proactive planning, innovation and collaboration are essential for long-term sustainability. Their story highlights the evolving relationship between ranching, conservation and responsible water management in a changing environment.   Relevant Links: Water Stewardship: A Ranching Family's Approach to Conservation and Changing Landscape (article) Drought Management Strategies (webpage) The Hidden Driver to Success: How Water Impacts Beef Cattle Health and Performance (resource) Water Systems Calculator (interactive tool) Forage U-Pick (interactive tool)

Healthy and productive pastures are essential for sustainable beef cattle operations, but invasive weeds and brush can reduce forage quality, impact livestock health and alter native ecosystems. Managing these challenges requires long-term strategic approaches that may include multiple control methods to reduce weed pressure while supporting pasture productivity and environmental stewardship. In this episode, we discuss how proper plant identification and strategic control are key to protecting both cattle performance and pasture health.   Relevant Links: Weed and Brush Control in Pastures (article) Carrying Capacity Calculator (interactive tool) Forage U-Pick (interactive tool) Weed & Brush Control in Pastures (webpage) Combating Invasive Weed Species (webinar) The Wire Newsletter (sign up)    

Legumes are one of the most economical ways to improve feed quality, pasture performance and cattle productivity. Alfalfa has received the most breeding focus and is the most common and productive legume available, however, combining strong yields, grazing tolerance and winter hardiness in a single variety remains a challenge. In this episode, we explore Canadian research examining how different alfalfa varieties balance productivity, grazing resilience and survival in harsh northern climates. Relevant Links:  It's Looking Like a Long, Cold Winter (article) Eight Key Grazing Management Facts to Consider as You Plan for the Upcoming Season (article) Forage Species (webpage) Forage U-Pick (interactive tool)

This episode explores how a community pasture co-operative in Nova Scotia is modernizing its grazing system through improved water management and upgraded infrastructure. Historically dependent on a single natural water source, the pasture faced challenges such as uneven grazing, declining summer water availability and environmental impacts from direct livestock access. The co-operative introduced multiple water sources, including surface runoff ponds and solar-powered pumping systems, while fencing off natural waterways. These upgrades quickly delivered clear benefits, highlighting how strategic infrastructure improvements and expert guidance can strengthen both productivity and environmental stewardship in pasture systems.   Relevant Links: Community Pasture Upgrades Water Systems for Healthier Beef Cattle (article) Water Systems Calculator (interactive tool) Grazing Management (webpage) Carrying Capacity Calculator (interactive tool)

Canada’s last outbreak of Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) occurred in 1952, showing how one small mistake can have major consequences for the agriculture industry. Today, strong prevention measures, planning, and industry cooperation help keep Canada FMD-free while protecting livestock and the economy from future risks. This episode explores how producers can stay aware, prepared, and ready to respond quickly if concerns arise, highlighting the importance of vigilance and teamwork across the industry.   Relevant Links: You Are Here: Beef Producers Have a Game Plan to Keep Canada FMD-Free (article) Foot and Mouth Disease (webpage) Mission Possible: Protect the Herd (resource) Biosecurity (webpage) Value of Calving Distribution Calculator (interactive tool)

This episode explores rotational grazing and how it varies from farm to farm, shaped by factors like rainfall, water access and labour. It covers the benefits like healthier soil, improved water quality and more productive pastures, while also addressing the challenges. Through the experiences of three cattle producers, it shares practical ways to get started, such as resting sections of pasture, planning around water sources and using temporary fencing to stay flexible while finding what works best.   Relevant Links:  Small Steps, Big Gains: How Starting Slow Leads to Grazing Success (article) Grazing Management (webpage) Eight Key Grazing Management Facts to Consider as You Plan for the Upcoming Season (article) Carrying Capacity Calculator (interactive tool)

Ribeye and striploin steaks are among the most expensive proteins in the store or on the menu, making it essential that these high-value cuts deliver a consistent and excellent eating experience every time. In this episode, we explore new emerging approaches that may help predict beef tenderness without sacrificing the steak. We also discuss the importance of maintaining and supporting research capacity to drive innovation and strengthen the future of the beef industry.   Relevant Links:  Tender Beef, Tough Funding Cuts (article) Evaluation of rapid evaporative ionization mass spectrometry (REIMS) for the prediction of slice shear force and quality grades in beef longissimus Lumborum steaks (journal article) Evaluation of rapid evaporative ionization mass spectrometry (REIMS) relationships with biochemical markers of tenderness in beef Longissimus lumborum steak (journal article) Carcass Grading (webpage) Beef Beyond Borders (article) Value of Calving Distribution Calculator (interactive tool)

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)