The reproductive efficiency of cow-calf operations is one of the most important factors affecting the potential profitability of herds. The ideal cow calves early in the calving season every year, breeds back early in the breeding season and weans off a heavy calf year after year.

As breeding season approaches, it is worth reminding that timely supplementation to first-calf heifers may be warranted. 

With spring turnout coming up, producers need to keep the nutritional demands of lactation and risks of grass tetany in mind as they prepare cattle for greener pastures.

The ideal cow is one that weans off a heavy calf each year, breeds back on time and doesn’t significantly add to the annual feed or vet bills.

I believe every extension agent in history has emphasized the importance of body condition score (BCS) in cow herd management, so it may not be surprising to see this title in my column.