Money in the bank is like having a cow-calf operation. The more cows you have, generally the more calves you have to sell, and the higher your income is from that “calf crop.” Depleting your savings now is like selling your cows off.

How often have you heard about the importance of having financial statements? Perhaps you have heeded that advice and have used a variety of spreadsheet tools, software and outsourcing alternatives for creating accurate balance sheets and accrual income statements. Now what?

Lenders tend to put a lot of weight on the strength of the balance sheet and primarily appraise tangible assets to make our balance sheet flow. This helps to set sale prices and make lending work. 

Many southern U.S. regions once plagued by ongoing drought have seen substantial precipitation this past month. Although this rain is a welcome change, it occurred during a crucial harvest window for many small-grain crops – leaving many producers pondering the best means to handle these forages.

Herd rebuilding or expansion must start with enabling grazing land to support the additional animals over the long term.

Unmet expectations for performance and behavior are likely the greatest stressor for most, if not all, supervisors. A failure to meet animal or crop goals, arriving late for work and skipping an assigned task are all examples of unmet expectations.

As volatile markets push nutrient costs higher, consider diet options, market trends, ingredients and milk markets to manage your feed budget. 

Farm safety and personal health go together. The ability to stay safe impacts health; the ability to stay healthy impacts safety.