Managing beef herds when forages are in short supply

Two extension specialists say proper planning and management can help beef producers minimize the longer-term economic impact of drought.

Purdue’s beef specialist Ron Lemenager says forages are in short supply, and farmers and ranchers will likely need to implement more intense management strategies. “Creep feeding in the short term might be a consideration,” he says.  “In the longer term, if we think that the drought is going to last a longer period of time, I think we have to start thinking about early weaning calves, taking away that lactation requirement, and letting those cows fend for themselves on a little bit on lower quality forage.”

He tells Brownfield it’s critical to make sure pastures are not overgrazed.

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