March 2016 Cattlemen's News by Joann Pipkin

MARCH 2016

VOLUME 19 | ISSUE 8

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Ditch the Risk Keeping Calf Scours at Bay

SPRINGFIELD, MO Permit #96 P O Box 634 Carthage, MO 64836

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3 Keys to Successful Herd Health MARCH 2016

MARCH 2016

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VIEW FROM THE BLOCK

he market is in a sideways pattern, and it’s been pretty volatile. The stock market and the oil market collapse, then the cattle market collapses. It’s not little swings either; it’s been a $40 to $60 a head swing in either direction. It’s hard to track.

to a lot of stress because of the winter weather. From a buyer’s standpoint, though, the cattle that have been weaned for 45 days before they come to market are worth about $10 to $12 more per hundred than those that haven’t been weaned.

As we head into spring, the cattle that can be grazed, have the right condition on them and that are ready to go to grass, are in big demand and easy to sell. Bigger cattle with some flesh are a little harder to move.

If you have some good, young females, those cows are really selling good right now despite the calf market. I expect the cow and bull trends to follow those of the calf market. If the calf market rebounds this summer, the stock cows will continue to sell good. The slaughter cow market is always good this time of year as we see fewer of those cattle around.

Later in March, I think we’ll see several of the bigger cattle weighing over 800 pounds, and that market will be pretty tough. New crop calves, those born last fall, will likely sell pretty well especially those with some compensatory gain built into them. Calves with extra flesh, though, will struggle. Calf health is typically better in the spring of the year because cattle are already acclimated

The cattle market these days is a lot like a minefield; you’ve sure got to watch where you step! Good luck and God bless.

Jackie

Bailey Moore: Granby, MO M(417)540-4343

Skyler Moore: Mount Vernon, MO M(417)737-2615

ARKANSAS Dolf Marrs: Hindsville, AR H(479)789-2798, M(479)790-2697

MISSOURI Jim Hacker: Bolivar, MO H(417)326-2905, M(417)328-8905

Billy Ray Mainer: Branch, AR M(479)518-6931

Bruce Hall: Mount Vernon, MO H(417)466-7334, M(417)466-5170

Jr. Smith: Melbourne, AR M(870-373-1150

Mark Harmon: Mount Vernon, MO M(417)316-0101

Kent Swinney: Gentry, AR H(479)736-4621, M(479)524-7024

Bryon Haskins: Lamar, MO H(417)398-0012, M(417)850-4382

KANSAS Chris Martin (Video Rep): Alma, KS M(785)499-3011

Doc Haskins: Diamond, MO H(417)325-4136, M(417)437-2191

Alice Myrick: Mapleton, KS H(620)743-3681, M(620)363-0740 Bob Shanks: Columbus, KS H(620)674-3259, M(620)674-1675

J.W. Henson: Conway, MO H(417)589-2586, M(417)343-9488 CATTLE RECEIVING STATION

LOUISIANA James Kennedy: DeRidder, LA M(337)274-7406 CATTLE RECEIVING STATION

Joe David Hudson: Jenkins, MO H(417)574-6944, M(417)-342-4916

OKLAHOMA Russell Boles: Watson, OK M(903)276-1544

Larry Jackson: Carthage, MO H(417)358-7931, M(417)850-3492

Chester Palmer: Miami, OK H(918)542-6801, M(918)540-4929 John Simmons: Westville, OK M(918)519-9129, M(417)310-6348 Shane Stierwalt: Shidler, OK M(918)688-5774 MISSOURI Rick Aspegren: Mountain Grove, MO M(417)547-2098 Clay Barnhouse: Bolivar, MO M(417)777-1855 Sherman Brown: Marionville, MO H(417)723-0245, M(417)693-1701 Joel Chaffin: Ozark, MO M(417)299-4727 Rick Chaffin: Ozark, MO H(417)485-7055, M(417)849-1230 Jack Chastain: Bois D’Arc, MO H(417)751-9580, M(417)849-5748 Ted Dahlstrom, DVM: Staff Vet Stockyards (417)548-3074 Office (417)235-4088 Tim Durman: Seneca, MO H(417) 776-2906, M(417)438-3541 Jerome Falls: Sarcoxie, MO H(417)548-2233, M(417)793-5752 Skyler Fisher: Collins, MO M(417) 298-9051 CATTLE RECEIVING STATION Nick Flannigan: Fair Grove, MO M(417)316-0048 Kenneth & Mary Ann Friese: Friedheim, MO H(573)788-2143, M(573)225-7932 CATTLE RECEIVING STATION Fred Gates: Seneca, MO H(417)776-3412, M(417)437-5055 Brent Gundy: Walker, MO H(417)465-2246, M(417)321-0958 Dan Haase: Pierce City, MO M(417)476-2132

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Mark Henry: Hurley, MO H(417)369-6171, M(417)464-3806

Steve Hunter: Jasper, MO H(417)525-4405, M(417)439-1168

Jim Jones: Crane, MO H(417)723-8856, M(417)844-9225 Chris Keeling: Purdy, MO H(417)442-4975, M(417)860-8941 Kelly Kissire: Anderson, MO H(417)845-3777, M(417)437-7622 Larry Mallory: Miller, MO H(417)452-2660, M(417)461-2275 Kenny Ogden: Lockwood, MO H(417)537-4777, M(417)466-8176 Jason Pendleton: Stotts City, MO H(417)285-3666, M(417)437-4552 Charlie Prough: El Dorado Springs, MO H(417)876-4189, M(417)876-7765 Russ Ritchart: Jasper, MO H(417)394-2020, M(417)237-0988 Lonnie Robertson: Galena, MO M(417)844-1138 Justin Ruddick: Anderson, MO M(417)737-2270 Alvie Sartin: Seymour, MO M(417)840-3272 CATTLE RECEIVING STATION Jim Schiltz: Lamar, MO H(417)884-5229, M(417)850-7850 David Stump: Jasper, MO H(417)537-4358, M(417)434-5420 Matt Sukovaty: Bolivar, MO H(417)326-4618, M(417)399-3600 Brandon Tichenor: Fairview, MO M(417)540-4717 Mike Theurer: Lockwood, MO H(417)232-4358, M(417)827-3117 Tim Varner: Washburn, MO H(417)826-5645, M(417)847-7831 OFFICE: (417)548-2333 Sara Engler VIDEO CATTLE PRODUCTION Matt Oschlaeger: Mount Vernon, MO M(417)466-8438

MARCH 2016

inside this issue About the Cover

Testing calves for persistently-infected (PI) Bovine Viral Diarrhea (BVD) is an important component of herd health. —Cover photo by Joann Pipkin

Features 12 18 20 22 23 24 26 28 30 32 38 48

Ditch the Risk Why Minerals Matter Prevention Begins Before the Outbreak Starts Sub-Q or IM? Is Your VFD Ready? 3 Keys to Successful Herd Health Why Fly Control Counts Eye on Anaplas Lowering the Risk of BRD There’s Proof in Performance Watchful Eye Take the Bite Out of Rabies

In Every Issue 3 5 6 8 10 54 56

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View from the Block Beef in Brief On Target with Justin Sexten Health Watch with K-State’s Dr. David Rethorst Next Generation with Darren Frye Event Roundup Market Watch

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Cattlemen’s News, published by Joplin Regional Stockyards, is a nuts and bolts news magazine dedicated to helping cattle producers add value to their operations. From “how-to” articles to economics and industry trends, our mission is to put today’s producers in touch with the information and products that will make them profitable for tomorrow. Published monthly. Circulation 10,000.

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beef in brief Lessons Learned from Steer Feedout Despite sobering results from the fall-born Missouri Steer Feedout, the event was not a total wash out. Seventy-two steers from Missouri were sent to southwest Iowa to be fed in cooperation with the Tri-County Steer Carcass Futurity (TCSCF) on June 4. Following harvest dates of Nov. 24 and Dec. 29, the seven owners of the steers received sobering news. During the feeding period, the 72 steers lost an average of $609.36 per head —the worst loss experienced in 33 years of the TCSCF. In spite of the negativity, four of the groups had 90 or 100 percent of their steers’ carcasses grade Choice. Three groups had rates of gain near 3.5 pounds per day. Steve Jones of Mount Vernon, Missouri, had one steer walk off with the honor of being top retail value per days on feed (RVDOF) and top retail value per days of age (RVDOA) of the 72 head in the feedout. Carcass quality premiums were hard to come by in this feedout with only steers from Darren Eckhoff of Lincoln, Missouri, and Norman Garton of Nevada, Missouri, receiving a $10 per hundred bonus for Certified Angus Beef quality. The next opportunity to enter a minimum of 5 steer calves that were born after July 1, 2015, will be between now and May 10. Steers will be gathered and sent to a feedlot in southwest Iowa on June 7. —Source: Adapted from a University of Missouri Extension release.

U.S. Beef Exports Trend Lower in December U.S. beef exports were below year-ago levels in December and posted the first full-year value decline since 2009, according to data released by USDA and compiled by the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF), contractor to the beef checkoff. December U.S. beef exports totaled 208.5 million pounds, down 6 percent from a year ago and slightly lower than in November, while export value fell 21 percent to $507.3 million. In 2015, beef exports were down 11 percent from a year ago in volume to 2.36 billion pounds. Export value was $6.3 billion, 12 percent below the 2014 record of $7.14 billion. Beef exports accounted for 13 percent of total 2015 production and 10 percent for muscle cuts only – each down one percentage point from a year ago. Export value per head of fed slaughter averaged $277.87, down 7 percent from the previous year’s record but still up 13 percent from 2013. —Source: MyBeefCheckoff.com

CSP Funding Boosts Farmer Opportunities Farmers have until March 31 to apply to the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) for voluntary assistance offered through the Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP). The deadline applies to farmers and ranchers new to the program and to those who signed CSP contracts in 2012 who want to renew those contracts for another five years. In addition to allowing NRCS to fund up to 265,000 new acres, Missouri NRCS Director J.R. Flores said the budget allows the agency to renew all of the 413 CSP contracts that Missouri farmers and ranchers signed in 2012. Those contracts, covering 192,000 acres, will expire on Dec. 31 if not renewed. Farmers may renew the contracts signed in 2012 on a non-competitive basis if they are willing to adopt additional conservation activities, such as improving water quality or soil health. CSP applications for 2016 contracts can be submitted at local NRCS offices until March 31. —Source: Missouri Natural Resources Conservation Service. www.joplinstockyards.com

MARCH 2016

On Target

On Target: Starting at the end Quality genetics, quality management pair to ultimately deliver consumer satisfaction Story By Justin Sexten

he great success stories in business, manufacturing and agriculture have at least one strategy in common. They identify what potential customers want and need – often within a predictable price or premium range – before setting out to provide it. That used to be obvious and easy in agriculture – just produce the necessities for food and clothing. In the cattle business, you simply produced and sold calves, or stockers or finished cattle to the next buyer. But the market has become more transparent, with price signals differentiating some cattle as more desirable. Defining the customer is a critical component in developing production that fits your farm or ranch resources and envi-

MARCH 2016

ronment. Producing for your target customer improves efficiency, while failing to match your crop to customer demand results in below-average returns. Over time, you either improve or modify the product or exit the business. Applying this to the beef supply chain means starting at the consumer level and working back to the ranch. We can’t afford to consider the person or segment we are marketing to as the ultimate consumer, even though most buyers today channel some degree of consumer demand. To make sure the demand for your calves continues to grow at every link of the chain, start with the end product in mind. That’s beef of course, and not just any beef, but the kind most able to command premium prices in consumer markets.

You might not buy beef in town all the time, but you can identify with other beef consumers. Eating satisfaction is linked to the components of beef flavor, tenderness and juiciness. Research and experience all say the potential to deliver that begins at the cow herd level. That’s where genetic, health, nutrition and management decisions set the limits, or open the heights, to each of the next buyers, all the way to the consumer. With each buying decision that leads to a meal starring beef, the consumer matches value to cost. The beef product market says they value higher quality above all. You might think a premium of Choice over Select beef of only $4.90 in February is a sign that quality doesn’t make that much difference anymore. Wrong. You simply have to look where consumers are looking: at the higher quality of premium Choice. The Certified Angus Beef® (CAB®) brand boxed beef cutout was reported at $14.90, or about three times more than the Choice-Select spread in February.

Price premiums for quality cattle continue to hold, even with current cattle genetics and management systems producing a greater percentage of Choice and Prime product than ever. Have you noticed that 76.4 percent of U.S. cattle are grading Prime and Choice? As DNA-backed selection tools provide genetics more capable than ever, the market responds as University of Missouri research says it should. Premiums for high-quality beef are less influenced by a growing supply than is the price of Select beef in the face of increased supply. As we all work to increase the supply of beef profitably, the clear signal from consumers calls for making sure most of your cattle can achieve at least the low Choice grade. Start with that awareness of consumer demand, then enable the next segments of the beef community, so that the market shares in the CAB premiums of more than $50 million per year. Feeders are buying calves at a premium to capture the highCONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE

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economic indicators

Tax Time: Stretch Tax Refunds with Smart Saving Consider direct deposit for faster refunds Story By Benjamin Waldrum

tax refund can feel like a personal stimulus package. And although it’s tempting to use it right away, saving some or all of it can pay dividends down the road, said Laura Hendrix, assistant professor of family and consumer science with the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture. “Tax time can be a great opportunity to build financial stability by increasing savings,” she said. “Put your tax refund to work by spreading it around to fit your needs now and in the future.”

ON TARGET • FROM PREVIOUS PAGE er prices offered by packers. The premium for Angus calves at weaning has increased from $3 per hundredweight (cwt.) in the fall of 2000 to nearly $7/cwt. in fall of 2014, compared to other calves of similar weight and condition, according to Iowa State University’s analysis of long-term auction market data. That’s in addition to any management premiums offered for preconditioning programs. Those vary by location and supply, it’s true, but market logic seems to point higher in any case. Leaving health to chance risks your reputation from repeated pulls, increased cost of gain and reduced carcass quality – ultimately unfulfilled genetic potential. Pair quality genetics with quality management to capitalize on the success strategy of starting with the end in mind. —Justin Sexten is director of supply development for Certified Angus Beef.

According to the IRS, 70 percent of tax filers are expected to receive refunds this year. The average amount of an individual tax refund last year was $2,797. The first step towards saving that refund is using IRS Form 8888. Form 8888 automatically saves all or part of a tax refund in up to three accounts. These include savings accounts at a bank or credit union, TreasuryDirect online, IRA (traditional, Roth, or myRA), or a Coverdell education savings account. In addition to these options, tax filers can purchase U.S. Series I Savings Bonds. To use direct deposit, the tax filer must have his or her own account. “You can’t deposit your refund into someone else’s account, and even if you could, there are a host of reasons you wouldn’t want to do it, including scams and financial abuse,” said Hendrix. Routing and account numbers for each account must be listed on Form 8888. Contact the financial institution for the account for help finding these numbers. Savings bonds require the names of the owners. This can be yourself, a spouse, children, grandchildren or anyone else. Bonds can also designate co-owners, and there is the option of designating a beneficiary – someone to inherit the bond if the owner dies. Using Form 8888 also ensures a speedy refund. “Direct deposit is a faster way to receive your refund than by check,” she said. “If you request a check, it can take weeks or months to get to you.” There’s also the added benefit of not having to keep track of, and possibly misplacing, a refund check. “Getting a tax refund is already a win,” said Hendrix. “Saving all or part of your refund can make that winning feeling last a lot longer.” –Source: University of Arkansas Agriculture Division. www.joplinstockyards.com

MARCH 2016

HEALTH WATCH

What is Animal Health and Well-being? Starting at ground level: the cowherd Story By David Rethorst for Cattlmen’s News

nimal health and well-being is animal welfare. It is providing adequate feed, water and shelter for the animals that God has entrusted to our care. It is doing all that we can to prevent diseases such as calf scours and respiratory disease in the calves that we raise. It is about reducing stress through the use of low-stress handling practices, dealing with the stress of transportation, and handling painful procedures such as castration and dehorning in an appropriate manner. In short, good animal health and well-being is the practice of good animal husbandry.

As I have stated at meetings and in this column before, it is my belief that as an industry we have become over-reliant on “management in a bottle.” We are always looking for a new, more powerful antibiotic or a new and improved vaccine to deal with the disease at hand. In reality, it is my belief that we need to take a long, hard look at the way we feed, handle and care for our livestock. As an example, let’s take a look at the respiratory disease associated with transportation and weaning. Precondition-

ing programs that require calves to be vaccinated, castrated, weaned and maintained on the farm or ranch of origin for 45 days prior to marketing have greatly reduced the incidence of respiratory disease in the feedyard and the subsequent use of antibiotics. Yet, there are groups of calves that experience unacceptable sickness and death loss in the feedyard. Vaccination of calves prior to selling the day they are weaned is another strategy that has helped reduce respiratory disease in many instances although the result is less predictable than that of the truly preconditioned calf. The unweaned, unvaccinated, and uncastrated calf, the mismanaged calf, is another story. Sometimes the sickness, death loss and performance of these calves is acceptable; many times it is less than acceptable. The mismanaged calves, and to a lesser degree, the pre-vaccinated calves, account for a high percentage of the search for new antibiotics and vaccines. This has created a “slippery slope” as the incidence of respiratory disease increases each year causing antibiotic use to increase while the consumers of our product are concerned about antibiotic residue, antibiotic resistance, and food safety. What are we to do?

The Veterinary Feed Directive, which goes into effect Jan. 1, 2017, will have little impact on the availability of feed-grade antibiotics for respiratory disease, provided the paperwork is completed in a timely manner. The use of these products for diseases such as pinkeye and foot-rot are a different situation as these uses would be extralabel use. Extra-label use of feed-grade antibiotics is not allowed by federal law. The use of these products in an extra-label manner has not been legal for a number of years, but there has been no enforcement. Veterinary Feed Directives are that enforcement. Again, what are we to do? In short, we need to build better immune systems in the calves we produce! This will reduce the number of calves that require treatment and the number of calves that die. Antibiotic use is reduced, antibiotic resistance becomes less of an issue, and consumer perception improves. How do we do this? A health plan to improve the immune system of calves is best summarized in six points put forth by a close friend of mine, Dr. Jerry Stokka, extension veterinarian and professor of animal stewardship at North Dakota State University. CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE

MARCH 2016

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fat, fat-soluble vitamins A and E, as well as white blood cells – in particular lymphocytes. The role of antibodies providing earlyin-life immune system function to the calf is well understood. If adequate colostrum is not absorbed in the first two to six hours of life, the likelihood a calf will have to be treated with antibiotics prior to weaning increases over 6 times. Fat serves as an energy source for the newborn calf and helps warm the calf quickly. A BCS of 5 or greater ensures adequate fat in the colostrum. Vitamins A and E help get the immune system off to a good start as do the lymphocytes, which are necessary for viral immunity.

WHAT IS ANIMAL HEALTH • FROM PREVIOUS PAGE His six points are: 1. Biosecurity 2. Genetics 3. Nutrition 4. Colostrogenesis 5. Calving and environmental stress 6. Handling stress

Cattlemen’s News 6.25" x 10"

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Biosecurity in the cow herd can deal with diseases such as bovine viral diarrhea (BVD), trichomoniasis, Johne’s disease, anaplasmosis and bovine leukosis. While it is important to keep each of these out of a cow herd, keeping BVD out or controlling it if it is present, is of primary importance if one is wanting to improve the immune status of their calves. Testing of calves for the persistently-infected (PI) form of this disease early in life is a good place to start on a control plan. Positive animals should be isolated and eliminated from the herd. Follow this with use of a modified live viral vaccination program in both cows and calves. If buying pregnant females, buy those with a known viral vaccination history and preferably females that have been PI tested. If that is not possible, it is recommended to isolate these females and PI test the calves. Genetics in this health plan involves selecting for traits that promote good health. These traits include calving ease, mothering ability, and udder and teat conformation. Also included are adequate, but not excessive milk; and adequate performance. In my mind, this would necessitate using a tool such as the maternal index when selecting bulls to be used for siring potential replacement heifers.

Date due to pub: 12-15-14 Today’s date: December 5, 2014 1:28 PM Account Service: Account Coordinator: Art Director: Production: Proofing:

The goal of the nutrition plan should be to achieve an optimal balance of protein, energy, minerals and trace minerals throughout the year. Excesses or deficiencies of any of these can have detrimental effects. Monitoring body condition score (BCS) is an easy way to assess the nutrition program. Maintaining cows in a BCS of 5 to 6 ensures the cows will produce adequate colostrum and return to estrus while avoiding excessive feed costs. Adequate protein during the last three months of pregnancy has shown to have a positive impact on the health and performance of the in-utero calf. During this same time, the cow is transferring trace minerals from her liver stores to the liver of the fetus. This allows the fetal liver trace mineral levels to be higher than the dam’s liver trace mineral levels, which is necessary for the calf’s immune system to work properly the first 50-60 days of life. The cow’s liver stores must be replenished between calving and breeding in order for her to return to estrus in a timely manner. Thus proper trace mineral supplementation must take place during late pregnancy and through breeding season. Colostrogenesis is the building of adequate colostrum. The essential components of colostrum are antibodies, www.joplinstockyards.com

Addressing calving and environmental stress involves making both cow and calf as comfortable as possible during calving season. It is assisting the heifer or cow experiencing calving difficulty sooner rather than later. Not only does early intervention reduce stress on the heifer or cow so she will return to estrus sooner, but dystocia increases the stress on the calf and the need for colostrum shortly after birth. Environmental stress is created by wind, CONTINUED ON PAGE 11

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MARCH 2016

be transferred. First, you need to look at the different options that might be available for how you’d like to leave an inheritance to the next generation.

NEXT GENERATION

Building a Legacy How to Develop a Master Plan for the Farm Story By Darren Frye for Cattlemen’s News

magine that you’ve decided to retire and transition your operation to the next generation. You might have an idea of what you want your legacy to be – but what needs to be addressed in your plan? A couple of different components exist when it comes to getting an estate plan in place for your farm, a plan that can accomplish your wishes and desires for your legacy. When those facets are figured out, you can feel more secure knowing you have a plan to help create the legacy you want to leave.

Your succession plan One of the key parts of a strong legacy plan for the farm is a clear understanding, for both the older and younger generation, of who will lead the farm in the future. That person

needs to be preparing him or herself for the job, including what he or she will be dealing with, and practicing leadership behaviors now. Who is the future leader of your farm? Are they a family member or someone else? How have you determined that they’re well suited to lead the farm, that they have the right default behaviors? Do you have a plan and timeline for how they will move into the leadership role? What intentional training are you doing with them so they can learn from you? What skills are they building that will serve them well in the farm leadership role? You might consider carving out a particular area of responsibility for them right

now where they make all the decisions and are accountable for the results. When they first start out in that role, you can act as a sounding board for them as they learn how to make wise business decisions. Meet with the future leader periodically to talk about what he or she is learning in their current areas of responsibility. That will help show you whether they are ready for more. It will also show you if they need some more coaching on a particular aspect of how to approach decisionmaking.

Your estate plan Another key part of a well-laid out legacy plan is to figure out how the operation’s assets will

A number of issues address in this part of your plan exist, especially when you have both farming and non-farming children. The concepts of sweat equity and ‘fair versus equal’ are important to consider. It might be particularly helpful to have a non-family guide for these conversations, such as a legacy advisor. Once you’ve decided what you want, then it’s time to get legal documents in place. Because of the unique nature of family farm businesses, it’s important to work with an estate-planning attorney who has a strong background in ag estate planning. Your legacy advisor, attorney and accountant work together, each bringing his or her area of expertise to the table. Building your legacy plan CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE

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BUILDING A LEGACY FROM PREVIOUS PAGE through a professional team approach can help ensure that the plan will accomplish what you want it to accomplish.

The full picture Do you currently have an estate plan in place? On a scale of 0 to 10, how confident are you that your plan will allow you to leave the legacy you want to leave? How comfortable are you with your potential income during retirement? If you’re a member of the next generation on the farm, how confident are you in your inheritance? The way that you answer these questions should make you feel more confident in the plan you have in place – or maybe they’ve generated some new questions. Make sure you get your ques-

tions answered. Someone who is well-versed in helping farm families create plans for the future they desire for their farms, such as a legacy advisor, can help. Get more information about farm business planning and ideas for today’s farm leader in our quarterly publication, Smart Series. The most recent issue features information on protecting the family farm during a transition, as well as one farm family’s legacy planning journey. Your free issue is available at: www. waterstreet.org/smartseries. —Darren Frye is President and CEO of Water Street Solutions, a farm consulting firm that helps farmers with the challenges they face in growing and improving their farms – including the challenge of transitioning the farming operation to the next generation. Contact them at waterstreet@waterstreet.org or call (866) 249-2528.

WHAT IS ANIMAL HEALTH FROM PAGE 9 rain, mud and snow. Windbreaks, bedding and moving to a new calving area are all ways of dealing with this stress. Moving calving season to a warmer time of the year is another consideration. The manner in which we handle cattle has been shown to have a significant impact on their immune function. Cattle should be gathered in a calm manner and staged near the corrals prior to weaning. Sorting should also be done in calm fashion and processing should be done with a minimum of hot shot and sorting stick use. Proper use of systems such as a Bud Box will also help reduce this stress. Fenceline weaning or other low-stress weaning methods are recommended. Once these six animal husbandry areas have been addressed, consideration can be given to the area where most people start – the vaccination program. If the six areas are addressed adequately, vaccination programs can become very simple, yet quite functional. Consult your veterinarian for their recommendations. I recently read a paper about a feedyard that adopted the philosophy that antibiotic use equates to management failure. This mindset change, along with a BVDPI testing and removal protocol, and a change in the manner in which antibiotics are used, has reduced the number of cattle requiring treatment; reduced the number of cattle that die; and improved performance in their feedyard while reducing their antibiotic use. Perhaps the rest of the beef industry can take a lesson from them. It has to start in the cow herd. We should remember that good animal health and well-being is the practice of good animal husbandry. We should not accept less than good animal health and well-being for less than 100 percent of the cattle that have been entrusted to our care. —Dr. David Rethorst is the Director of Outreach for The Beef Cattle Institute, Kansas State University www.joplinstockyards.com

MARCH 2016

economic indicators

Ditch the Risk Marketing with price risk management tools Story by Brittni Drennan for Cattlemen’s News

hat goes around tends to come back around. That’s the message when talking about risk management tools. Invest in protecting your risk today, and you are working to lower those price risks in the long term. As much as producers have invested in their cattle and their business, they should spend the time to market their cattle to ensure they get optimal return on their investment. Most cattle producers are great at exercising production risk management strategies. For example, cattlemen understand buying high-quality hay will increase the likelihood of yielding higher gains verses buying lower quality hay. While that seems easy enough to understand, price risk management strategies are a little more difficult to grasp and comprehend. Scott Brown, University of Missouri agricultural economist, said with the increased volatility of the cattle industry today, now is not the time to tune out and ignore price risk management options. “Just like with production management strategies, producers know the benefits outweigh the costs in the long term,” Brown said. “You’re going to pay to reduce the cost on your operation, and it works the same way with price risk management. There will be cases in which producers invest, and they don’t get the payback. But it pays to protect your investment and work to lower those price risks in the long term.” So what are the options and what steps should be taken to begin taking advantage of the tools available? Brown first recommends finding a broker and working with him or her to determine what best fits the operation. “It’s no different than finding an accountant, banker or insurance agent,” Brown said. “Find a broker you can trust,

MARCH 2016

develop a relationship and work with him or her to find what is best for your operation.” Brown outlines a few different tools producers can review and determine which situation best fits their business. In futures, an option is the right to buy or sell a futures contract at a designated strike

“But, if you don’t have about 70 calves for a straight futures contract, think of yourself as being over-insured.” According to Kenny Burdine in a publication, “Using Futures Markets to Manage Price Risk for Feeder Cattle,” published by the University of Kentucky, selling a futures contract essentially sets a floor and a ceiling on possible prices. “The producer has very solid downside price risk protection as they make money on their short futures’ position as prices fall,” Burdine said. “However, they also give up potential upside gain as they will lose on that futures position as prices rise.

said it eliminates the margin call risk. Put options establish a floor but not a ceiling, so producers like the downside risk protection as well as the upside potential in a rising market scenario. “Producers also like put options because they are not subject to margin calls,” Burdine said. “However, put options can be expensive, and it is also worth noting that the price floor set through purchasing a put option will be lower than the price that can be locked through selling that same futures contract due to premium costs and the difference between the current futures’ market and the strike price of the put option.” Options contracts also specify 50,000 pounds. To add some complexity, in some situations a producer can be hedged at less than or greater than 100 percent. It might be worth discussing implications with a broker. For smaller producers or any producer inexperienced with buying and selling futures markets, another option exists.

Livestock Risk Protection

Knowing your production costs is key to making the best price risk management decision. Otherwise, it’s hard to understand how to best lower risk and what options best fit the operation. –Photo by Joann Pipkin

price. Using futures to lock in prices can work to a producer’s advantage when working to manage risk, particularly in a volatile, unstable market.

Straight Futures Contract A futures contract is the agreement to buy or sell a set amount of a particular commodity at a future date for a predetermined price. Straight futures contract specifications are for 50,000 pounds of calves (or approximately 70 head), with an average weight between 650 and 849. Producers need to be aware of a “basis,” or the price differential between local prices and futures prices. “You can do a straight futures contract and choose to sell contracts when feeder cattle prices are desirable,” Brown said.

Options Futures Contract Call and puts are terms used referencing the type of option. A call option is purchased when predicting the futures will increase. A put option is purchased when projected futures prices will decrease. Purchasing an options contract gives the producer the right, but not the obligation, to sell the contract if he or she chooses to do so. “The difference between options and straight futures is with an options contract you pay a premium for that contract upfront, but it gives you an option at any point to exercise the futures contract that underlies the option that you bought,” Brown said. With the higher cost paid by the producer upfront, Brown

Livestock risk protection (LRP) is a newer tool the Risk Management Agency of the USDA is now providing cattle producers. Sold by the same people who sell crop insurance today, Brown said it allows producers to insure as few as one animal, allowing the program to be tailored to an operation of any size. “It’s going to cost you X for a given price to protect X number of calves for a given time,” Brown said. “Thirteen percent of the premium is subsidized. You purchase that, and you’re done. It doesn’t involve the stress of watching markets.” LRPs can be purchased for 13 weeks to 52 weeks out, however there is no option for a producer to get out of the contract before the end date as opposed to a futures or options contract. The biggest benefit of an LRP is the option to put fewer head on the line. “First, you market your calves like always at the auction market,” Brown explained. “The LRP contract will clear on the CONTINUED ON PAGE 14 www.joplinstockyards.com

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MARCH 2016

DITCH THE RISK FROM PAGE 12 weighted average prices as reported in the Chicago Mercantile Exchange Group Feeder Cattle Index. So, it’s not relative to the sale price of your cattle on sale date. It coincides with the CME price on ending date of your contract. Most of the time your sale barn prices are going to coincide closely with CME prices.” He continued, “Generally, for those producers uncomfortable using price risk management tools, an LRP may seem more appealing. With an LRP, producers can try this tool with just a few head to test the waters and see how it works.” Even though futures trading tools are primarily used by crop producers, Brown said cattle producers have the opportunity to learn how to use more of these resources available to them. To make the best price risk management decision, it is critical producers know their production costs. Otherwise, it will be

difficult to understand how to best lower risk and options that best fit the operation. “The last thing you want to do is lock in a loss,” Brown said. “You better understand what it’s costing you to produce that calf. If your potential revenue stream outweighs the cost, then maybe it’s something you want to protect.” There is more price risk on the downside, which means producers should be taking advantage of price risk management tools. Brown said the time to seek out opportunities is now as opposed to the day after the market drops. Protecting investments starts now. “When we got into October, November and December, and we saw lower cattle prices, then everyone wanted to look at price risk management,” Brown said. “But, the day after prices drop isn’t the best time to lock in those contracts. Looking ahead, even though prices have dropped substantially, they could still drop even lower. Once we got accustomed to the higher prices, then we get spoiled even though we’ve been lower than where we are today.” Brown said the bottom line with these price risk management tools is producers are ultimately better off to have not gotten a payout upon selling or closing out their contracts. That means cattle prices are high, and the calves brought more than what was initially expected. “Think of it like your auto or home insurance; you don’t want to collect,” Brown said. “Just because you didn’t get anything out of that premium you paid, doesn’t mean you didn’t get any benefit.” In a cyclical industry like beef cattle production, producers understand the industry is going to respond to the market environment. Due to the drought from 2011 to 2013, cattle supplies are tight but are on the rebound. Because producers are growing cowherd numbers, Brown said a lot of downside price risk is coming, and risk management tools help knock out the “lows” to keep more producers in the business for the long term. “If I knew where the prices were going to be a year from now, we wouldn’t need any of these tools, and there would be no risk,” Brown said. “There’s more downside risk in markets out there. You work to lower that downside risk, and these tools can give you that opportunity. It doesn’t mean that’s what is going to happen. You’re just protecting yourself from the pitfalls of a cyclical, unpredictable industry.” Brown said it is best for producers inexperienced and uncomfortable with price risk management tools to start slowly, taking small steps at first. As producers become more comfortable with the tools, they will be easier to understand, and producers can determine which ones are best for them.

MARCH 2016

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economic indicators

Tough Times on the Horizon CattleFax predicts market shock is nearly over, turbulence still ahead

nsights about the recent market price shocks and potential for future turbulence were discussed with more than 2,000 beef producers at the CattleFax Outlook Session held during the 2016 Cattle Industry Convention and NCBA Trade Show. The downward spiral from the late 2014 and early 2015 record-high cattle prices has been tough for many in the business, but CattleFax chief executive officer Randy Blach said the steepest portion of the market correction has passed. He explained that tighter protein supplies and stronger exports created the ‘perfect storm’ for the cattle market to reach the extreme highs. Animal health challenges limited poultry and pork production in 2014, creating the tightest per capita U.S. net protein supply in the last 20 years. “We are coming off historic highs in the cattle market, created by unique conditions in both the global and domestic protein markets,” said Blach. “Dynamics, specifically larger protein supplies, led to a significant correction in price in 2015. A large portion of the market down trend is over now. However, the cycle shows prices continuing to trend lower in 2016, 2017 and 2018.” Analysts predicted the cattle feeder – after losing about $200 per head in 2015 – will be slightly profitable this year. Stocker operators will experience tighter margins, and cow/calf producers will remain profitable. The team of economists expects fed cattle prices will average $130 to $135/cwt. in 2016. “Cow/calf producers will still be profitable, but at substantially lower levels than the past two years,” said Kevin Good, senior analyst and fed

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cattle market specialist, CattleFax. “We predict the cattle feeder will have tight margins for the year with potential for profitability by mid-year.” A two-year El Nino weather pattern has replenished moisture conditions across the country, specifically the West coast, which saw some relief recently. The weather outlook appears favorable, especially moisture conditions for grasslands, according to the weather outlook from Art Douglas, professor emeritus at Creighton University. “As we head into 2016, a split jet stream pattern will favor above-normal precipitation from California to the Southern Plains and the Southeast through March,” said Douglas. “In the Corn Belt, spring will be wetter-than-normal, which will be accompanied by slower spring warming. Delays in fieldwork and planting dates are likely to result.” Analysts predicted $294 per head added value from exports for 2016 – a $66 drop per head from 2014 values. This decrease in export potential is caused by a combination of a stronger U.S. dollar, slowdown in global markets and challenges with market access. China and other global markets are still the biggest opportunities for U.S. beef, but trade restrictions will continue to limit potential in the year ahead. Beef imports are predicted to be down 8 percent due to the combination of lower trim prices and increasing domestic cow slaughter. The United States is in a rebuilding stage, and females are being held back for the cowherd. Analysts predict the U.S. cowherd will grow another 600,000 head in 2016 following a 1.1 million head increase in 2015. —Source: BeefUSA.org

MARCH 2016

PASTURE PLANNING

The Alternative Fertilizer Is your land suited for poultry litter? Story By John Hobbs

asture and forage production is vital to most Missouri cattle operations. Poultry litter is well known by poultry farmers as a valuable fertilizer for pasture and forage production. The waste is an excellent soil amendment that provides nutrients for growing crops and also improves soil quality when applied wisely. Environmental concerns in the concentrated poultry regions of Missouri has focused attention on more widespread litter uses. In addition, the increase in commercial fertilizer costs due to higher manufacturing prices has generated interest by non-poultry farmers in litter use and management in soil fertility programs. All farmers who use fertilizer, whether poultry litter or commercial, should be aware of the principles of nutrient management. This simply means you know what is applied, where

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itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s going, how much and how you do it. Using nutrient management planning and implementing the prepared plan is good business sense, and gives efficiency and credibility to the fertilizer program. The foundation of nutrient management using poultry litter is testing it to quantify your current soil fertility status and the plant nutrients in the litter. Each farm should develop a sound, regular soil testing program regardless of any permit requirements. It is an inexpensive, easy to do best management practice that also happens to be an extremely powerful management aid. The report will include pH, lime requirement and nutrient levels in the soil represented by the sample. One interesting effect of using litter in soil fertility management is that we have seen

increasing pH levels and decreasing lime requirements over time in most soils. This is currently attributed to dicalcium phosphate in the poultry diet, which leads to significant calcium levels in the litter, so when litter is land-applied, it has a liming effect by adding up to 40 pounds of calcium per ton of litter applied. Increasing the pH by meeting recommended lime requirements will have the extra benefit of increasing availability of native nutrients in the soil. The recommendations accompanying the soil test results will offer suggestions for maximizing crop yields in an economic manner. Poultry litter and other animal byproducts are slow release nitrogen and phosphate fertilizers. However, research has shown that a large percentage of the total potash from litter seems to be more available soon after land application. Testing the nutrient content of the litter helps us manage the plant nutrients in the litter more efficiently. About half of the total nitrogen applied as litter is available to growing crops in the year of applica-

tion. The phosphate used by plants in the application year varies widely, from 20 to 80 percent of total applied depending on soil types and other factors. Application management should be based on nutrient management plans to attain yield goals for the particular pasture or forage crop. In long-term poultry litter applications, concern about phosphate removal rates exists. Cutting hay will remove much more phosphate, as well as potash, than grazing cattle on the same acreage. Applying two tons of litter will add about 100 pounds of phosphate per acre, and cattle will remove 9-10 pounds of phosphate per acre per year during the grazing process. Application on wet soils should be avoided to minimize soil compaction and nutrient loss through runoff and other pathways. Care should be taken to avoid litter application near creeks, springs and ponds. The Missouri Department of Natural Resources requires a 100foot setback from ponds and CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE

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HELPING HANDS

Missouri Producers Urged to Consider Risk Protection Spring crop sales deadline on the horizon

SDA Missouri Farm Service Agency (FSA) Executive Director Mark Cadle, reminds producers to review available USDA crop risk protection options, including federal crop insurance and Noninsured Crop Disaster Assistance Program (NAP) coverage, before the March 15 deadline. This deadline applies to forage and pasture, as well as spring-seeded crops, including most produce.

THE ALTERNATIVE FERTILIZER FROM PREVIOUS PAGE creek banks when applying litter in Missouri, and it is required to maintain 50-foot application offsets along property lines as most complaints to authorities about litter application in Missouri have come from annoyed neighbors. Is poultry litter right for your farm? It depends. Transportation costs to your location from poultry-concentrated areas in Missouri could prohibit you from using it from an expense standpoint. If your phosphorus levels are too high at the present time, it would keep you from applying poultry litter. If soil test levels of phosphorus are above 300 pounds per acre, do not apply poultry litter. However, litter can be a great value in many situations to improve pasture as well as hay quantity and quality. —Source: Reprinted with permission from the Feb. issue of Ag News and Views.

Federal crop insurance covers crop losses from natural adversities such as drought, hail and excessive moisture. NAP covers losses from natural disasters on crops for which no permanent federal crop insurance program is available, including forage and grazing crops, fruits, vegetables, mushrooms, floriculture, ornamental nursery, aquaculture, turf grass, bioenergy and industrial crops. “NAP policies allow producers to protect their investment by purchasing coverage for noninsurable crops,” said Cadle. “Natural disasters are an unavoidable part of farming and ranching and FSA programs like NAP help producers recover when they experience a loss.” USDA has partnered with Michigan State University and the University of Illinois to create an online tool at http://www. fsa.usda.gov/nap that allows producers to determine whether their crops are eligible for federal crop insurance or NAP and to explore the best level of protection for their operation. NAP basic coverage is available at 55 percent of the average market price for crop losses that exceed 50 percent of expected production, with higher levels of coverage, up to 65 percent of their expected production at 100 percent of the average market price available, including coverage for organics and crops marketed directly to consumers. Crops intended for grazing are not eligible for additional NAP coverage. For all coverage levels, the NAP service fee is the lesser of $250 per crop or $750 per producer per administrative county, not to exceed a total of $1,875 for a producer with farming interests in multiple counties. Additional levels of coverage require an added premium. Beginning, underserved and limited resource farmers are now eligible for free catastrophic-level coverage, as well as discounted premiums for additional levels of protection. –Source: Missouri Farm Service Agency release.

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MARCH 2016

MANAGEMENT MATTERS

Why Minerals Matter

Grass tetany: it seems simple, but it isn’t Story By Elizabeth Walker for Cattlemen’s News

ometimes I surprise myself with the amount of information I don’t know. When looking up information to write this article on grass tetany, I found that the mineral that is associated with it, magnesium, is interesting and complex. A book I encourage my students to read – “Disappearing Spoon” – has all sorts of interesting tidbits on the Periodic Table, but it didn’t scratch the surface when it comes to magnesium as it related to livestock production.

Magnesium is one of the most abundant macrominerals found in the body and is involved in enzyme production of DNA and RNA, as well as muscle contraction and the nervous system. Magnesium is stored in the bone and soft tissues with little circulating in the blood. From a clinical perspective, grass tetany might be recog-

nized by loss of appetite, decreased milk production and convulsions. The amount of magnesium found in the cerebral spinal fluid is the major factor causing these clinical signs. Often, when these signs are noticed, it is too late and the animal will perish. Most mammals are able to conserve minerals in their tissues and fluids. However, it is unknown to the extent at which minerals can be conserved and how long it takes a clinical deficiency to occur once that animal reaches the low threshold of mineral status. Dietary intake of sodium, potassium, and nitrogen can have drastic effects on the status of magnesium in beef cattle.

Diets, including forages low in sodium have an effect on magnesium absorption from the rumen. When sodium is low in the diet, there is an increase in potassium concentration in saliva and subsequently in ruminal fluid. High concentrations of potassium in the rumen, decreases the ruminal cells ability to absorb magnesium. This is exasperated when magnesium levels are already low. This interplay of sodium, potassium and magnesium are often overlooked in terms of risks of grass tetany. Nitrogen is also a risk of grass tetany. A rapid change from a low-nitrogen diet to a diet high in N causes a rapid rise in ruminal ammonia levels. Ammonia can then interfere with magnesium absorption. Luckily, the ruminal environment quickly adapts and magnesium absorption will be resolved within a few days. The mineral status of water is often disregarded when intake is examined. Small ruminant producers are aware of calcium and phosphorus concentrations as related to urinary calculi problems in male animals, but beef producers should also be aware that drinking water that is naturally high in minerals decreases mineral supplement intake. If the mineral content in the water is high, then salt should not be mixed with minerals as the palatability factor. Instead, substances such as molasses should be used to increase palatability. When considering these wonders of the periodic table, levels of magnesium, sodium, potassium and nitrogen can be influenced during the spring growing season, especially with lactating cows grazing on lush, cool season forages that are elevated in potassium and yet low in magnesium and sodium. Again, high potassium coupled with low magnesium and sodium can negatively affect animal health and cause grass tetany. While warm season forages might also be deficient in magnesium, problems are rarely seen. Often, the only signs of a cow with insufficient magnesium levels is when she is in the later stages of the disease, and there is little hope for recovery. Hence, prevention is key. And as always, a gradual change in diet CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE

MARCH 2016

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WHY MINERALS MATTER • FROM PREVIOUS PAGE is preferred, and producers should provide their animals with suitable sources of minerals. Mineral supplementation can vary from farm to farm because of animal breed differences and stage of production, time of year, forage species and stage of production, fertilization history and rates. Not all mineral supplements are equal, and producers should know their animal’s needs in order to provide a suitable mineral program. Under ideal conditions, forage samples should be collected monthly from areas of a pasture where animals are seen to graze. Forage samples should be cut 1 to 3 inches above the soil in order to decrease soil contamination. For those that are able to do routine forage samples over a period of 3 years, a farm-specific mineral program can be instituted. According to K.C. Olson, Kansas State University professor of range beef cow nutrition, while initial investment might be high, a long-term savings could be recognized. Intake is greater with loose minerals or licks when compared to blocks. Mineral

color may just be a marketing tool. Color might be the result of increased iron oxide levels, which then could exacerbate issues associated with low copper. In addition, increased magnesium in the mineral mix might decrease mineral intake because magnesium is bitter, and most animals are not fond of the flavor. Therefore, a mineral high in magnesium is often mixed with molasses and grain to encourage adequate intake. Mineral supplements should be placed in areas where animals are often found such as water facilities or lanes of travel. Space is also important to ensure adequate mineral intake. One mineral feeder should be available for every 25 young animals and every 40 mature animals. Other than a mineral program, mixed forage pastures are also a good means of preventing grass tetany. Legumes tend to be higher in magnesium whereas grasses are low. —Elizabeth Walker is associate professor of animal science at Missouri State University.

TRENDING NOW

BQA Certification Offered at Ozark Spring Round Up B

oehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica, Inc. (BIVI), will offer beef and dairy producers a chance to become Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) certified during the Ozark Spring Round Up, March 1820 at the Ozark Empire Fairgrounds in Springfield, Missouri. Free online certification for BQA is also offered now through April 15. The program, funded in part by the beef checkoff, is courtesy BIVI and the BQA program. BIVI will pick up the $25-$50 online training fee for every person completing BQA training through April 15. That includes anyone who works with cattle – whether it is beef or dairy. Visit www. bivi-bqa.com to take advantage of the open certification period. The BQA program is important to the cattle industry because it is a producers’ consumer-friendly story to tell, helping them talk about using BQA Best Management Practices for producing a safe and high quality beef product. The BQA training modules are customized to fit the specific needs of each segment of the cattle industry – cow-calf, stocker, feedyard and dairy operations. The program covers best management practices such as proper handling and administration of animal health products, reducing injection site blemishes, and low stress cattle-handling principles. — Source: Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica, Inc.

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MARCH 2016

MANAGEMENT MATTERS

Prevention Begins Before the Outbreak Starts Vaccinating the cow is a key component to keeping scours at bay Story By Rebecca Mettler for Cattlemen’s News

scours outbreak—those words can strike fear even in the most experienced cowcalf producer’s heart. Now, that statement might seem a little dramatic, but with the possibility of losing up to 20 percent of a calf crop to scours in some of the worst-case scenarios, a touch of drama can be justified. Like many other events in beef production awareness, management and a proactive plan can turn around a potential profit-losing situation. Scours occurs most in calves that are under one month of age. The main scour-causing agents are E. coli, clostridium (types not associated with blackleg), rotavirus, coronavirus, cryptosporidia and Salmonella. Often a single fecal sample can contain many different strains of each of these bacteria and viruses. “The best way to treat scours is prevention; the best way to prevent scours is to vaccinate the cow,” said Ted Dahlstrom, D.V.M., co-owner of Animal Clinic of Monett and senior veterinarian for the Joplin Regional Stockyards. However, if producers are looking for a cookie cutter, one-size-fits-all solution to scours, Dahlstrom is here to disband that idea. The bacteria strains that cause scours can vary from region to region and from farm to farm. For 19 years Dahlstrom has been collecting calf scour samples, which have identified different bacteria strains responsible for calf scours in southwest Missouri. As a result of these findings Dahlstrom incorporates the use of an autogenous bacteria vaccine in his prevention. The vaccine, given to pregnant cows, is made up of strains of scours-causing bacteria that are not found in commercial vaccines. “We

have

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that

would really struggle with the prevention of scours by only using commercial vaccines,” Dahlstrom said. “The autogenous vaccine has given us the opportunity to save way more calves that we did in the past.” Commercial scours vaccines protect from the most common strains of bacteria, but because an autogenous vaccine is produced for a specific region, it encompasses more types of bacteria. In scenarios that a producer is still experiencing an increase in scour cases under commercial vaccine regiments, Dahlstrom suggests an autogenous vaccine in conjunction with a commercial vaccine might improve results. The fall 2015 calving season brought an uncharted course for many producers in southwest Missouri because of new strains of scours-causing bacteria. Bacteria cultures have been sent to the lab that creates the autogenous vaccine to incorporate those new strains into Dahlstrom’s next batch of vaccine. “There are new strains every year,” Dalstrom said. “The bugs mutate and survive one way or another.” For producers who are seeing scours problems and don’t have a vaccination program in place for their pregnant cows, collecting scour samples from infected calves is key. Samples should be collected from calves preferably before they are treated for scours. This will help a veterinarian determine which antibiotic will need to be administered to the calf and what vaccination protocol needs to be put into place to protect the next season’s calf crop. The same approach also applies to a producer who has a vaccination program in place but is having an uncharacteristically hard time with scours. Cows need to be vaccinated during the last four months of pregnancy and no later than

30 days before calving. This allows the cow time to build up immunity to the pathogens and insure that immunoglobulins are placed in the colostrum to provide immunity to the calf. It’s also important to note that if the cows are not currently on a scours vaccination program, producers need to be aware that an initial dose must be followed up with a booster dose at least 30 days prior to calving. “There are vaccination protocols available to use along with management so that this disease can be amicably controlled,” Dahlstrom said.

There’s Prevention in Management “A huge component [of scours prevention] is managing to avoid pathogen buildup,” said Craig Payne, University of Missouri extension veterinarian. Large portions of scours cases occur during the middle to later stages of the calving season, especially in a 90- to 120-day calving window. The concept behind that is a lot of scourcausing agents are present in the cowherd year around in lower levels, but when calving season begins the first calves pick up the bacteria and viruses and don’t have immunity to them. Therefore, they excrete more scour-causing agents out the backend than they consume through their mouths. New calves at the middle and end of the calving season are exposed to so many bacteria, that there’s a possibility that the immune system will be overwhelmed even if the calf received adequate colostrum intake right after birth, according to Payne. “With all of that being said, a big component of prevention is to manage environmental contamination overload and avoid overwhelming calves with calf-scour containments,” Payne said.

The Sandhills Calving System is one management program cattle producers can research in order to prevent scours. Though it’s a complex system that can be hard to replicate in specific scenarios, the basic theory involves separating newborn calves into clean pastures and away from older calves. Even changing the way that producers feed hay in the winter months can make a difference in scours prevention. Feeding hay in hay rings in the same area day after day increases the risk of a scours outbreak. “Cows and calves congregate naturally around hay rings,” Payne said. “It’s a hotspot for exposure if feeding in one location. Move feeding locations and spread things out to decrease pathogen buildup.” Cow nutrition also plays a large role in scours prevention. Insuring that the cow has proper nutrition prior to calving will give the cow the chance to produce higher quality and larger quantities of colostrum. The final piece of advice from both Payne and Dahlstrom centers on advance planning. The middle of a scours outbreak is not the ideal time to first speak to a veterinarian regarding calf scours. It’s easier to discuss before the calving season and have a prevention strategy in place before the financial loss and calf death loss start adding up. www.joplinstockyards.com

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MARCH 2016

MANAGEMENT MATTERS

Sub-Q or IM? Consider vaccination method as part of Beef Quality Assurance protocol Story By Brittni Drennan for Cattlemen’s News

eef Quality Assurance (BQA) provides a framework for program consistency throughout the beef cattle industry, outlining standards to which all producers should model their production practices. BQA guidelines help ensure high-quality beef products industrywide, upholding consumer confidence in beef products.

BQA guidelines regarding injectable health products are very clear. First, producers should always read and strictly follow product label requirements. Second, subcutaneous injections versus intramuscular injections are strongly preferred. Subcutaneous injections are administered into the subcutis, the layer of skin directly below the epidermis. Intramuscular is injected directly into a muscle. In fact, Ted Dahlstrom, D.V.M., at Animal Clinic of Monett, said he encourages producers to administer all vaccinations and antibiotics subcutaneous versus intramuscular. “All your vaccinations and antibiotics are approved for subcutaneous injection,” Dahlstrom said. “About the only thing we give in the muscle anymore are products that are used for breeding synchronization.” Studies have shown subcutaneous injections cause less damage to the final meat product as opposed to intramuscular injections, which can cause tissue damage. Intramuscular injections as well as improperly administered subcutaneous injections can result in blemishes at the injection site and are evident even through the harvest stage. These defects must be trimmed away and discarded, increasing economic loss. “There are muscle layers under the skin, and it’s easy to nick those muscle layers even when administering an injection sub-cu,” Dahlstrom said. “The neck is a preferred injection site, and I prefer a 16 x 5/8-inch needle, which decreases the possibility of entering the muscle. Needles need to be clean and sharp and changed on a regular basis.” Dahlstrom said the neck is usually more accessible when the animal is restrained in a chute, and studies show the probability of causing blemishes to the injection site were less likely in the neck than anywhere else. It is also critical to adhere to BQA guidelines when administering large doses of a substance. If administering large volumes of a product, 4 inches apart, and give no more than 10 ml per injection site. Records of vaccination and treatments should be maintained and passed with the animal to the new buyer or upon the animal’s transfer from the seller. Such records prevent unnecessary treatment or repeated vaccinations. Not adhering to BQA standards or improperly handling an animal can have severe repercussions. “We’re big on quality assurance, and it’s all about accountability,” Dahlstrom said. “Producers realize this affects the bottom line eventually. It might not have repercussions immediately, but it affects their reputation if it becomes a problem down the road. These cattle are becoming more traceable, and damaged product can now be tied back to the producer.”

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION: DECTOMAX Injectable has a 35-day pre-slaughter withdrawal period. DECTOMAX Pour-On has a 45-day pre-slaughter withdrawal period. Do not use in female dairy cattle 20 months of age or older. Do not use in calves to be processed for veal. DECTOMAX has been developed speciﬁcally for cattle and swine. Use in dogs may result in fatalities. 1

Data on ﬁle, Study Report Nos. 2839A-60-00-025, 2239A-60-00-029, 2239A-60-00-030, 2239A-60-00-033, 2239A-60-92-027, 2239A-60-94-003, 2239A-60-94-007, 2239A-60-94-067, 2239A-60-94-068, 2239A-60-94-070, 2239A-60-95-156, 2839A-60-97-123, Zoetis Inc. All trademarks are the property of Zoetis Inc., its aﬃliates and/or its licensors. ©2014 Zoetis Inc. All rights reserved. DMX14002

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Producers are responsible for the products they produce, and they should adopt the best management practices and BQA recommendations to ensure a healthy product and maintain a competitive demand for their calves. Developing a good reputation among buyers when marketing calves at the livestock market will allow them to capture added value for their product.

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MANAGEMENT MATTERS

Is Your VFD Ready? Prepare now for veterinary feed directive rules Story by Brittni Drennan for Cattlemen’s News

ost producers by now have probably at least heard of the Veterinary Feed Directive (VFD) and wait with anticipation to see how it is going to affect their operations. Craig Payne, University of Missouri extension veterinarian, advises producers to take action now instead of waiting until the new VFD rules take effect. “If producers intend to continue using medically important feed grade antibiotics, they are going to need a VFD order from their veterinarian starting Jan. 1, 2017,” Payne said. “Go in, talk to your vet, establish a relationship and visit with him or her now instead of later because there are going to be folks out there who won’t realize this is coming.” Medically important antibiotics is a term used by the FDA to describe antibiotics that are important for therapeutic uses in humans. It is the medically important feed grade antibiotics that will be moving to VFD status at the end of this year. A list of drugs transitioning from over-the-counter (OTC) to VFD status can be found on the FDA website at www. fda.gov/animalveterinary/de-

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velopmentapprovalprocess/ ucm071807.htm. Realizing that is a long web address, it is easiest to do a Google search for Veterinary Feed Directive, and click the first link listed.

Obtaining A VFD Feed According to the Food and Drug Administration, for a producer to obtain and use a VFD feed, they will need to first get a VFD from a licensed veterinarian. In order for a veterinarian to issue a VFD, a veterinarian-client-patient relationship (VCPR) needs to be in place. All in all, a VCPR means the veterinarian has a working relationship with the producer and has recently seen and is acquainted with the care and keeping of the animals the VFD is being issued for. After the VFD order is written, a copy will be issued to the producer and feed distributor, and the order can be filled. The producer, feed distributor and veterinarian must then keep the VFD on file for two years from the date it was issued. Payne said producers need to be aware of extra-label drug use and understand that extralabel use of feed additives is

not permitted. Extra-label use is the use of a drug in a manner that is not in accordance with the approved labeling. “If you’re using a feed grade antibiotic in a way that it is not labeled, then it’s illegal,” Payne said. “For example, some producers use chlortetracycline (CTC) to control pink eye problems, but that’s not an indication on the label so it’s not permissible. Read and strictly follow what’s on the label.” Producers should also be aware that VFDs have an expiration date, and according to the FDA, the maximum length of time allowed is six months if it is not specified on the label of a product. Payne said the importance of the expiration date is that it is not legal to give a medicated feed past

that date regardless of how much medicated feed is remaining. “People may have questions or there may be questions arise that we don’t immediately have answers for,” Payne said. “However, the FDA has been good about providing guidance along the way as questions or obstacles arise.” Payne said the biggest concern among some producers is the limited access they have to a veterinarian. He suggests starting now to find a veterinarian to visit with about the best solutions for the operation. “There will be enough challenges when this is implemented, so the more we can do to prepare now the better off we will be,” Payne said.

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MARCH 2016

MANAGEMENT MATTERS

3 Keys to Successful Herd Health Nutrition, vaccinations, parasite control work together Story By Austin Black for Cattlemen’s News

Payne, University of Missouri Extension veterinarian.

“Together, nutrition, vaccinations and parasite control improve the overall ability of the animal to respond to disease challenges,” said Dr. Craig

Nutrition management starts with existing resources. Producers should watch quantity and quality of their forage, especially during breeding season. Dr. Monty Kerley, University of Missouri professor of ruminant nutrition, said forage is sometimes unavailable or lower quality during this time.

erd health is a direct result of herd management. Experts believe nutrition, vaccinations and deworming have a significant impact on herd health. Each area is dependent on the next to provide full protection.

“Think about how much forage the animal will eat and what its demands are,” said Kerley. Failing to meet the cow’s nutrition requirements for proper condition is a common mistake. If a cow doesn’t have a high enough body condition score (BCS) at calving, she has to work extra hard to catch up. “Once that calf is born, it’s a lot easier but you still have to get her bred back,” Kerley said. Minerals are an important component for cow/calf operations. “Protein, energy, mineral or vitamin deficiencies can affect the immune system’s ability to adequately respond to disease and vaccines,” said Payne. Animals with poor im-

mune systems can get sick if they are in stressful situations. This is where nutrition and disease prevention work as a team. “The majority of vaccines don’t prevent the animal from becoming infected. Instead it enhances the immune system to fight off infection to avoid reaching the clinical phase,” said Payne. Quality nutrition and routine vaccinations work together to support immune systems.

1. Vaccinations are critical for herd health. “In a breeding herd, vaccination programs are designed to primarily prevent reproductive losses, protect the developing fetus and improve colostrum quality for the newborn calf,” said Payne. Some pathogens can infect the fetus during pregnancy. Studies show vaccinating cows for reproductive and respiratory diseases before breeding reduces abortion and transfers immunity to calves through the colostrum. A big mistake in herd-health management relates to storing and administering vaccines. Dr. Jason Apple, University of Arkansas animal science professor, said a recent U of A study monitored refrigerators storing vaccines. The study recorded internal temperature for 48 hours. Less than one-third of the refrigerators maintained the correct temperature range according to the label. Some refrigerators even got cold enough to freeze vaccines. Apple said producers should ensure the refrigerators they use for storage stay within the recommended temperature range to maintain vaccine efficacy. Payne said it is important producers follow label directions when giving vaccines. Some producers might not give booster shots — a common label direction for killed vaccines. And, they might fail to give injections properly. “We preach during Beef Quality Assurance sessions that when using a modified-live vaccine and a killed vaccine that aren’t approved to be mixed together, giving those vaccines right on top of each CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE

24 MARCH 2016

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3 KEYS TO SUCCESSFUL HERD HEALTH FROM PREVIOUS PAGE other on the animal can result in a kill off of the virus in the modified-live vaccine,” Payne said. Instead, producers should space injection sites a hand’s width apart or vaccinate on different sides of the neck. Apple said producers should always read and follow dosage instructions. “Just because you’ve got 7-way blackleg from (one company) last year doesn’t mean it’s the exact same dosage (from another company),” he said. At the same time, overdosing after reading the label is a bad practice. “On mature cows that could probably work,” he said. “But calves could have a problem with a larger dosage. If there’s anything that I stress, it’s read your labels and put it where it’s supposed to go, whether that’s a subcutaneous or an intramuscular shot,” Apple said.

Producers should have a 45-day quarantine policy for new animals. This is especially important on operations that intermingle new cattle with the current cowherd. “With most diseases, cattle can shed the virus or bacteria in 45 days, and then they’re not causing problems,” Payne said. However, some diseases can cause persistent infection, such as BVD and trichomoniasis. Payne said quarantine won’t solve these issues. Instead, testing is necessary to identify disease carriers. Consulting with a veterinarian to establish protocols for the operation is necessary, Payne said. Veterinarians can also advise on animal health products and biosecurity measures to prevent disease. Producers might need to restructure management techniques and protocols to be more effective. “We have to rethink every year what our management is going to be,” Apple said.

Vaccination timing is important. “Often times we vaccinate when it is convenient. For some, the only time they administer reproductive vaccines is when the cows are already in mid to late pregnancy. A lot of diseases that cause pregnancy loss occurs in early gestation. Therefore, we need to administer before conception,” Payne said. Producers should also consider vaccinating calves before weaning. “It takes the immune system a while to respond to the vaccine,” he said. “If we can give a vaccine before weaning, the immune system will be ready to respond by weaning time.”

2. Deworming still pays. Apple said some producers sacrifice herd health by not deworming. He said in the past, producers would use inexpensive paste and boluses. Now, dewormers come in a small bottle and carry a higher price tag. “It’s like sticker shock buying a new car,” he said. “But, we can’t avoid things that are important.” According to Kerley, research shows deworming is one management tool that pays for itself. “Deworming and vaccination are big deals,” he said. Apple said a University of Arkansas study measured the impact of dewormers on cattle. Researchers divided cattle in three groups. In one group, cattle wee treated with dewormer at branding. In another, they were treated at branding and stocker phase, and the third group was treated at branding, stocker phase and feedlot. “If cattle got three doses of deworming, they had a little higher quality grade when slaughtered,” Apple said. “I’m a firm believer in deworming.”

3. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Vaccinations and deworming are key components of overall herd health — but they aren’t the cure to every problem. Payne said biosecurity is critical. “Even in a vaccinated herd, if they’re exposed to significant disease challenges, it can overwhelm the immune system,” he said. www.joplinstockyards.com

MARCH 2016

MANAGEMENT MATTERS

Why Fly Control Counts Protect profits, prevent disease by cutting fly populations Story By Austin Black for Cattlemen’s News

ly control is important for cattle comfort and profitability. Cattle that fight flies undergo stress and don’t perform, costing producers money. University of Missouri Extension Livestock Specialist Eldon Cole said five types of flies cause problems in beef cattle, and the most prominent and biggest cause of loss of production is the horn fly. While the horn fly causes the biggest loss, its presence is usually minimal. Animals can tolerate the pest without any problem as long as there are fewer than about 200 flies per animal. Beyond this threshold causes a significant drop in performance, mainly in yearlings and breeding cattle on grass. “The biggest loss is strictly animal rate of gain,” Cole said. In the summer months, stocker cattle will gain .2 pounds per day less if the threshold of 200 flies is present. Face flies aren’t as big a nuisance to cattle as horn

flies, but are just as common. Instead of sucking blood as the horn fly does, face flies feed on secretion from the eyes. “The biggest concern of face flies is the transfer of pinkeye and eye infection,” Cole said. This can be a problem for producers with young cattle, since disease affects cattle performance. Horse flies can be a problem during the summer months. Fortunately, they seldom bother cattle. However, when they are present, controlling them is difficult. “The number one real concern is they transmit anaplasmosis,” Cole said. This infectious blood disease affects the red blood cells and causes severe anemia, weight loss, abortion and even death. The disease usually shows up more in older animals, and they are unable to gain weight. Cole said Kansas and Missouri are experiencing increased concern with the disease. Oklahoma fought it hard last summer. (See related article on anaplasmosis on page 28 of this issue.)

Although deworming has eliminated the impact of heel flies, they still exist. Heel flies lay eggs on the legs of cattle in the springtime. The larvae then migrate through the animal’s body into the loin, back and rib area during the winter. The larvae would become grubs noticeable under the hide. Cole said cattle might have knots on their back that would eventually pop, and the grub would emerge. “Ivomec and parasite control agents that go into the bloodstream pretty well eliminated the problem with heel flies,” he noted. The most annoying fly for cattle is the stable fly. “Cattle consider them a very bad nuisance,” Cole said. The stable fly will bite and sting cattle, causing extensive discomfort and stress. “Cattle will try to fight them as much as they can,” Cole said. “They will even get in the water to get rid of [the flies].” Unlike horn flies, only five to 15 stable flies are necessary to for the pest to meet the nuisance threshold for cattle. The stable fly thrives in filthy conditions, such as rotting straw and hay. Sanitation around bale rings reduces their numbers. Flies begin to appear in April when warmer temperatures and moisture are present. Cole said horse

Stable flies bite and sting cattle, causing extensive discomfort and stress. Fly tags are a popular method of fly control, however industry experts recommend product rotation to avoid insecticide resistance. — Photo by Joann Pipkin

flies are active in mid to late summer. Horn and face flies can be seen in large numbers in the fall before the frost. “It all depends weather,” he said.

the

Fly control methods have changed in recent decades. Cole said when visiting with producers about fly control once, the most popular method someone mentioned was tails. Spraying was the popular approach in the mid-1900’s. Producers would gather the herd and spray them every three to four weeks. In the 70s and 80s, ear tags with insecticide were created. “We thought we had the whole battle won,” Cole said. “We just put fly tags in one or both ears.” Still, resistance developed due to producers not removing tags in time. “We still see fly tags as pretty popular control agents,” Cole noted. Charts are available that suggest product rotations for tags to avoid insecticide resistance. Cole said producers can give a bolus that releases insecticides in the animal’s rumen. “That is pretty much the same thing as a mineral or supplement fed to cattle,” he said. The insecticide interrupts the fly’s life cycle and retards its development in the manure pile. Instead of spraying, some producers are fogging their cattle. They gather their herd with cubes and drive along the cattle with a sprayer that emits a light mist or fog. Cole’s favorite fly control method is a back rubber or dust bag filled with insecticide. “These are self-application devices that cows hopefully will frequent or are forced to go under or around,” he said. These devices were first used in the 1950’s and do a good job on horn flies and face flies. Cole said producers should evaluate their farm’s setup to see if these devices will work. “Most of these things need to be used in conjunction with something else,” he added. “One form of control probably isn’t going to cut it.” Producers should visit with their local vet to determine what options will work best in their area.

26 MARCH 2016

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MARCH 2016

MANAGEMENT MATTERS

Eye on Anaplas

Proper sanitation during vaccinations is important to help prevent the disease Story By Joann Pipkin, Editor

he disease plagued cattlemen across the nation’s midsection last fall and early this winter. Primarily transmitted by arthropod vectors such as ticks and biting flies, anaplasmosis often rears its ugly head weeks after an animal becomes infected. According to Dr. Barry Whitworth, area food animal quality and health specialist for Oklahoma State University, some beef industry experts believe cattle movement affects how new strains of the disease are introduced. “We may be seeing different strains of the bacteria causing anaplasmosis, making it be more prevalent,” he said. “We may be seeing more stressors that have compromised the immune systems of affected cattle.” Because the disease is not reportable and does not have statistical information behind it, Whitworth said it’s difficult to know how bad anaplasmosis is. “There are a lot of unknowns about the disease,” he said. “The more research is done, the more questions come up.”

Anaplasmosis 101 Caused by the organism Anaplasma marginale, anaplasmosis can be transmitted both via arthropod vectors and by mechanical means. “Ticks are recognized as a significant mode of transmission because the organism carries out part of its life cycle in the tick,” said Dr. Craig Payne, University of Missouri Extension veterinarian. Gregg Hanzlicek, veterinarian and director of production animal field investigations for Kansas State Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory said male ticks are called intermittent feeders. “This means they’ll feed on an animal, and then they’ll drop off to find another animal to feed on. If the first animal is infected, the tick will consume that backeria, which reproduces in the tick’s body.”

28 MARCH 2016

“The tick falls off and finds another animal that may not be infected. The tick then transfers the bacteria through its saliva while feeding on the uninfected animal.” Anaplasmosis might also be transmitted by mechanical means through the use of blood-contaminated equipment such as castration or dehorning tools. “For herds that are already positive, one of the major ways this disease spreads from animal to animal is by not changing needles (when vaccinating),” Hanzlicek said. He suggested changing needles and disinfecting tattoo pliers and dehorning instruments between animals as ways to mitigate the risk of infection. From the time an animal is infected, it takes an average of 21 days before clinical signs of the disease appear. Therefore, Payne said most anaplasmosis cases are seen in the fall. Still, the disease might appear later if the arthropod vector season is extended in a given year.

The Signs Observation is critical in detecting anaplasmosis. According to Payne, the organism infects red blood cells so the animal’s immune system removes those infected cells, destroying them in the process. Over time, this leads to anemia. The severity of the infection and anemia dictates the severity of clinical signs. In the early phases of the disease, clinical signs such as fever, depression and pale mucous membranes are often recognized along with reduced appetite, drop in milk production and possibly constipation. “As the disease progresses, these clinical signs worsen and animals will begin to develop a yellow tinge around their eyes, vulva and teats,” Payne noted. “They may also develop muscle weakness or be unable to stand and death may be the end result.”

Anaplasmosis is a disease spread by arthropod vectors such as biting flies and ticks. Equipment used during castration and dehorning can also spread the disease if not properly disinfected. –Photo by Joann Pipkin

He added that it is not uncommon for severely anemic animals to become aggressive or excited when handled and die a short time later due to the lack of oxygen in their system. “Clinical signs seem to be more severe in older animals,” Payne said. “A possible reason is that older animals are less efficient at producing red blood cells when compared to younger animals. Therefore, older animals would be less tolerant of an infection.” B vitamins and rumen inoculants might stimulate appetite if cows are not eating, Whitworth said. “Any animal less than a year old in age may be infected, but tends to not have symptoms of the disease. From 1 to 2 years of age, we may see some symptoms and the animal typically responds well to treatment.”

The Options Check. Check. Double check. Keeping watch over your cattle daily is critical in anaplasmosis detection. “The earlier the treatment, the better the opportunity we have for getting that cow back on her feet and well,” Whitworth said. Long-acting injectable tetracyclines are common treatments for cattle with anaplasmosis. Feed grade chlortetracycline (CTC) is approved for control of anaplasmosis, but is not approved for treatment, Payne noted. Hanzlicek said cattlemen should consult their veterinar-

ian about using feed-grade antibiotics. Medically important feed-grade antibiotics such as CTC will be moved from over-the-counter availability to requiring a Veterinary Feed Directive (VFD) by the end of 2016. In severely sick animals, researchers have found treating for anaplasmosis is not effective. Sometimes when left alone, the animal will bounce back, and treating with tetracycline is effective only when given early in the infection. A non-USDA-approved vaccine is available for anaplasmosis, however it doesn’t prevent the disease. While feeding tetracycline prevents the disease if consumed in adequate amounts, Whitworth said, “Unfortunately, this does not protect all cows because some eat too much and some eat too little. Bulls also have trouble consuming enough mineral to be adequately protected, so they make good candidates for vaccinations.” Meeting nutrition and mineral supplementation needs is critical so immune systems are not compromised, Whitworth said. Ensuring all new cattle in the herd are free of anaplasmosis by taking a blood test is crucial, Hanzlicek said. New arrivals should be quarantined until test results confirm if the disease is present. “Consulting with your veterinarian and developing a prevention and control program will be to your advantage,” Whitworth said. www.joplinstockyards.com

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MARCH 2016

MANAGEMENT MATTERS

Lowering the Risk of BRD Respiratory disease remains the beef industry’s number one killer Story By Lisa Henderson for Cattlemen’s News

ovine Respiratory Disease (BRD) remains the cattle industry’s biggest profit robber. “It’s the No. 1 killer of beef cattle,” says Dan Thomson, Kansas State University veterinarian. Despite our industry’s advancements in nutrition, genetics and management, BRD continues as the most common cause of death for all classes of cattle and calves, and BRD results in estimated industry losses of $650 million to as much as $1 billion annually. Veterinarians, however, admit those costs are difficult to quantify since even calves successfully treated for BRD might never perform up to their preillness potential. Those performance losses are

why veterinarians and other industry leaders continue to support research on preventing and treating BRD, and why they encourage producers to implement preconditioning programs on the ranch. “The key to preventing respiratory disease is management on the farm or ranch where those calves are raised,” says Clint Krehbiel, Oklahoma State University professor of beef cattle nutrition and health. The key factors that raise the risk level of BRD for calves are management, transportation and commingling, but the risk can be greatly reduced by management on the ranch. “For calves that are destined to be sold as stockers or feeders,” Krehbiel says, “early castration and vaccination against BRD at that time is a key to lowering the risk of BRD.” Industry leaders continue to encourage producers to begin the battle against BRD while the calves are still calves. “For producers who have the facilities and the resources, implementing a preconditioning program to vaccinate and hold calves on the ranch for 30 to 45 days before shipping is extremely beneficial,” Krehbiel says. “Preconditioning greatly reduces the morbidity at the next phase and improves the overall performance of your calves in a backgrounding or feedlot environment.”

That significant reduction in morbidity is why buyers are willing to pay handsome premiums for calves they know to be preconditioned. Recent research from actual market sales suggests the premium for preconditioned calves exceeds $100 per calf.

Both Krehbiel and Apley suggest using a scoring system of 1 to 4 when evaluating sick cattle. Cattle identified as a 1 or 2 show mild signs of BRD.

In Oklahoma, premiums for preconditioned calves averaged $19.20 per cwt. at six sales in 2014, or about $123 per head. That’s according to 4,327 Oklahoma Quality Beef Network (OQBN)-registered calves, compared to 6,000 noncertified and/or non-preconditioned calves sold immediately around the preconditioned calves and through the same auction markets.

“We’ll still pull those cattle to the chute and take their temperature,” Krehbiel says. “If they temp, we will treat them. If they don’t temp, we’ll put them back in the pen and just watch them closely.”

If you’re buying calves either for grazing or backgrounding, Krehbiel says the key to containing an outbreak of BRD is early identification.

“Preconditioning greatly reduces the morbidity at the next phase and improves the overall performance of your calves in a backgrounding or feedlot environment.”

“Producers should observe those purchased calves at least twice a day,” he says. “If you see the potential those calves are going to break, getting them treated as soon as possible is critical.”

Cattle identified as a 3 or 4 in terms of symptoms are treated regardless. Cattle that display severe symptoms and can’t stand are scored a 4.

—Clint Krehbiel Oklahoma State University Animal Scientist

Kansas State University veterinarian Mike Apley encourages producers who operate backgrounding or feeding programs to develop written plans to manage BRD.

Every group of cattle can present slightly different issues, Apley says.

“It’s important to write down what you are looking for in sick cattle, both for your own information and for training employees,” Apley says. “We encourage producers to use the D.A.R.T. program.”

“Sometimes you have to adjust your dial on the way the cattle are behaving,” he says. “Sometimes cattle that are a little wilder might not allow you to see and identify the illness as quickly.”

D.A.R.T. is an acronym for depression, appetite, respiratory and temperature.

While treating sick cattle immediately is critical, experts emphasize the importance of nutrition for all classes of cattle.

Krehbiel agrees producers receiving commingled cattle should become familiar with the D.A.R.T. system. He describes the visual signs producers should watch for as: • Depression – cattle with heads down, ears drooped, hanging back and an overall appearance of depression. • Appetite – cattle that do not come to the feed bunk or are not eating. • Respiratory – cattle that display labored breathing, maybe with their head extended and struggling to breathe.

30 MARCH 2016

• Temperature – cattle with a temperature of 104 F or higher.

“A healthy cow produces a healthy calf,” Krehbiel says. “There are risk factors for BRD that we don’t totally understand. For instance, we know that the incidence of BRD was higher in Texas and Oklahoma during the drought years of 2011 and 2012. We saw that risk lowered this past year when grass was plentiful.” Krehbiel says maintaining your cows on a good plane of nutrition with adequate mineral supplementation can lower the risk of BRD in your calves.

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MARCH 2016

MANAGEMENT MATTERS

There’s Proof in Performance Preconditioning programs ensure payback for producers Story by Brittni Drennan for Cattlemen’s News

reconditioning calves can have a great impact on the health of those cattle down the line as they continue through the beef industry food chain. Preconditioning prepares an animal to withstand exposure to an adverse situation, stress or changing environments, according to Ted Dahlstrom, D.V.M, Animal Clinic of Monett.

“Calves will still be getting some antibodies from the colostrum while still on the mother,” Moore said. “This

eating feed before leaving its mother. “It’s a big deal to us if they already know how to eat before they get here because they’ll automatically go on feed,” Moore said. “If calves know how to eat before they get here they will be healthier whether the feed has medication in it or not because they’re already eating well. There’s no lag time and weight loss due to

Not only does preconditioning help ensure a healthier product down the line, but it also can provide economic incentives and could potentially add more dollars to producers’ pockets. A well-managed preconditioning program enhances calf health and allows that calf to have the best chance of performing to its optimal potential.

From a health standpoint, Dahlstrom said preconditioning requires a good vaccination program and parasite control as well as adaptation to a change in feed. These elements are designed to equip the calf with what it needs to experience change and be exposed to unfavorable variables.

A healthy animal will have better feed conversion than an unhealthy one, so from an economic standpoint when it costs $0.70 to put on a pound of gain, and they’re converting six pounds of feed to one pound of gain, it makes a huge difference, Moore said.

“Think of it as an insurance policy,” Dahlstrom said. “It’s a lot better to condition these calves while they’re on the mother than after they’re weaned, but with a good preconditioning program, they’re better able to handle the transition to the next phase.” Jackie Moore, owner of Joplin Regional Stockyards, said vaccinations are critical for a backgrounding operation. “(Calves) get viruses which break down their immune system, but then what kills them is a bacterial infection,” Moore said. “You can’t treat a virus, but you can prevent it. Once an animal gets sick, you’re treating the bacterial infection. You give vaccinations to build up (the animal‘s) immune system to ultimately ward off bacterial infections. The biggest detriment in the U.S. that costs producers the most money is respiratory disease, so anything you can do to prevent that is a big factor.” Vaccines given as part of a preconditioning program include those for respiratory diseases, pasteurella pneumonia and blackleg. When the vaccines are administered depends on the preconditioning program. Moore said it is most effective to give vaccines before calves are weaned.

32 MARCH 2016

“One of the best things producers can do for a preconditioning program is to start with the nutritional health of the cow,” he said. “If you want to have healthy calves, you have to have healthy mommas. Cows need to be on an adequate parasite control, immunization and nutritional program as well. Maintaining cow condition ensures calves are getting proper nutrition from the colostrum. A healthy calf starts with a healthy mother.”

Timely immunization plays an important role in preconditioning programs.Vaccines given for respiratory diseases, pasteurella pneumonia and blackleg are most typically most effective when administered to calves prior to weaning. — Photo by Joann Pipkin.

preconditions them so when they are weaned, the vaccines will kick in, and the calf is more likely to remain in good health.” Preconditioning also includes a good nutrition program. Most pharmaceutical and feed companies have nutrition products and plans for preconditioning calves, and it is up to the producer to determine which plan best fits the operation and management style. A nutrition plan is important to a preconditioning program because it allows the calf to get accustomed to

the time it takes to teach them how to eat.” Moore suggested the best way to prepare calves nutritionally is to creep feed them or at the very least allow them to learn from their mothers how to eat feed by feeding the cows. Feeding calves also reduces stress prior to going through nutrition changes at the next phase. Dahlstrom said not only is the calf’s nutrition important, but also the cow’s nutrition and health are equally as critical to a successful preconditioning program.

Additionally, it allows the producer a more marketable product and provides greater flexibility in the market. Dahlstrom said preconditioned calves have already been through the stress of weaning, and time is on the producer’s side going against the market. He can hang on to those healthy, weaned calves a little longer if the market is low when he goes to sell them. Preconditioning also helps a producer establish a good reputation at the sale barn and among buyers. “It builds a good reputation if a producer is known to have healthy cattle and adds more value to those calves,” Moore said. “If the calves perform well and the buyer doesn’t have continuous health problems, he is more likely to buy cattle from the same producer again and is more willing to pay a premium for good cattle.” The results of a preconditioning program are visible all the way through the end of the beef supply chain, adding value along the way. The proof is in the performance. CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE www.joplinstockyards.com

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MARCH 2016

According to Joplin Regional Stockyards coowner Jackie Moore, “If calves know how to eat before they get here, they will be healthier whether the feed has medication in it or not because they’re already eating well.” Developing a nutrition plan in preconditioning programs is important because it gives the calf a chance to get accustomed to eating feed before it leaves its mother. — Photo by Joann Pipkin

THERE’S PROOF • FROM PREVIOUS PAGE “You can have the most genetically superior animal in the world, but if he’s dead he’s probably not going to perform very well,” Moore said, adding to the validity of a good preconditioning program. Pharmaceutical and feed companies provide a number of preconditioning protocols, and Dahlstrom recommends discussing with a veterinarian a plan that will best fit the producer’s management style, operation and environment. “Preconditioning programs are pretty inexpensive for the potential benefits (they provide), so they’re highly costeffective,” Dahlstrom said. “I would much rather prevent problems than treat them. We have the products and tools available to prevent a lot of these problems that arise re-

34 MARCH 2016

lated to health issues, and a veterinarian can help producers apply these programs.” Moore said the more producers can do at home before calves get co-mingled and become exposed to outside hindrances, the more valuable those cattle become. “That’s where your reputation as a cow-calf guy becomes known around the stockyards and among buyers,” Moore said. “But, what fits one guy’s style might not work for the next guy. That’s what makes this industry so unique. Differences in personalities and methods change from one guy to the next, not that one method is better than another. We all need to make a living somehow, but that doesn’t mean we all have to do things alike.”

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NEWS TO USE

Freeze First, Meat Lovers K-State study shows freezing steak improves tenderness of some cuts

eat lovers might find it appealing to take a fresh steak from the store right to their home grill, but research continues to show that freezing the steak and cooking it later actually improves the tenderness of certain cuts. Kansas State University meat scientists say they’ve confirmed previous findings about the impact of freezing strip loin and inside round steaks. In a recent study, they tested six major muscles from the hind quarter and found that those two cuts were as much as 10 percent more tender after freezing.

Research by Kansas State University meat scientists confirms that freezing of strip loin and inside round steaks can make the meat more tender. –Photo by Kansas State University Extension.

Steaks were evaluated for tenderness using the Warner-Bratzler Shear Force test, which measures the force needed to shear muscles. “So the question we had was why did these two cuts react while the other four did not,” said John Unruh, professor of animal sciences and industry. Part of the answer, he noted, is moisture loss. “These two muscles, for some reason, did not lose as much moisture during freezing as the other four,” Unruh said. Unruh and a team of graduate students also evaluated 125 paired strip loin steaks available in a retail setting. The steaks were frozen, thawed and evaluated for tenderness. ”The strip loin steaks showed a 6 percent improvement in the Warner-Bratzler Shear Force test, indicating a more tender steak,” Unruh said. “Moisture loss did occur, but it was low, about 2 percent.” Freezing does, indeed, improve the tenderness of beef strip loin steaks, Unruh said. In a related study, the scientists tested the tenderness of strip loin steaks being sold in retail grocery stores. ”We monitored the differences in these steaks at different times of the year and different quality grades, including Premium Choice, Choice and Select,” Unruh said. “A higher percentage of the steaks in the higher quality category, Premium Choice, met Warner-Bratzler shear thresholds for tender or very tender.” Lower quality cuts were more likely to fluctuate in tenderness throughout the year, he said. —Source: Kansas State University Extension release.

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MARCH 2016

economic indicators

Think Past the Present

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Unfortunately, right or wrong, many are disconnected from the land, and along with that disconnection, comes a much more flexible approach to life. This flexibility has become quite evident in the cattle business, and perhaps that has been good; however, there is a big “but” in the process.

The traditional thought process embedded in generations of beef producers would not acknowledge the countercultural role. Cow-calf production has been anchored by strong ties to the land, which change very slowly. Those

Improvements in flexibility come at a cost, which ultimately determines the ability of an operation to stay in business. How? Simply put, flexibility and variable costs go together. The calculated return on every cost input ultimate-

Traditional beef producers face a countercultural role Story By Kris Ringwall

erhaps, it is time to be countercultural. Perhaps, most would associate counterculture with lifestyles and the ever-changing human mood, which might bring a raised eyebrow from the grandparents. The countercultural mood, however, is slowly creeping into the beef business, which has morphed into a high-input, market-trend business.

who depend on the land approach life in the same way; “stability” would be a good word.

The dilemma is that traditional producers face a countercultural role.

ly determines the adaptability of the input. Because the land is set, flexibility creeps in as fixed costs through facilities and equipment. The accumulation of structures and equipment has been so prevalent that, in many cases, the cattle business has become structure-, pen- and equipment-based. This creates a huge dilemma for the cow-calf sector of the beef business. Do producers continue with the everpresent desire to expand cow numbers through expanding flexibility, or should they refocus and return to a more traditional land-based approach to the cow-calf operation? And to further complicate the question, our financial challenges are becoming heavier. How does a producer make a $600 gross margin work with $650 in projected expenses? Begin by controlling the feed cost, which is 70 percent or more of the total variable costs. In addition, adding value to the calf is doable. In simple terms, a thorough evaluation of costs and value is critical. A common mistake during the budgeting process is often the inability to think outside the constraints of the operation. Too many times, those constraints are set in a producer’s mind but are not real when applied to the operation. Thinking past the present is critical. That being said, let’s get back to my initial comment: “Perhaps, it is time to be countercultural.” The answer to whether that’s the right choice is imbedded in calving season, cow size and efficiency, weaning time, grass turnout, labor requirements and many more intricate aspects of the whole cow-calf operation. These answers should lead to the assessment of the specific operational protocols on the ranch and unveil hidden opportunities. Within those opportunities might be alternative marketing options. Fundamental to the answer of how to maximize pounds coming off the operation in respect to calf weight is knowing and controlling direct and overhead costs that have been CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE

36 MARCH 2016

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THINK PAST THE PRESENT FROM PREVIOUS PAGE incurred up to weaning so you can make comparisons of marketing alternatives. What is the daily incremental cost of keeping the calf for additional days? Traditional thinking would imply backgrounding the calf, but most producers just want to run cows. And then comes the long-term question: Do I have enough revenue to maintain and expand, which means an adequate return on investment of total assets? The real answer to the question of profit rests with the ability to complete a process that fundamentally provides a proper business evaluation. Why is this important? The dynamics of the beef business change, yet the beef producer is trying to focus down the road. Increased direct and overhead costs, and retirement or family

expansion create difficult questions. Costs are rising, production is stagnant, and prices are falling. Countercultural thinking would challenge production opportunities as live weight at slaughter goes up. The opportunity for the producer to capture a greater percentage of the increased pounds of beef at harvest is real and should start the discussion. But those concepts are countercultural to the current cattle business. As cow-calf producers, do we actively seek an aggressive share of what we produced? Have we thought through how changing the production system at home could open new opportunities to capture value? That means change. Can we change? Think about it. — Source: Kris Ringwall is a beef specialist with the North Dakota State University Extension Service.

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MARCH 2016

MANAGEMENT MATTERS

Watchful Eye Ergot’s effect on cattle: observation and prevention is key Story By Austin Black for Cattlemen’s News

n a region where fescue pastures dominate, problems often arise associated with endophyte. However, according to Dr. Craig Roberts, University of Missouri plant science professor, many producers are quick to blame fescue endophyte instead of another culprit. “Ergot is a surface fungus pathogen that affects the seedhead of our grasses,” Roberts said. Cattle that consume ergot-infected grasses experience ergotism. This disease causes many of the same issues as endophyte. Ergot is found in cereal grasses like rye, wheat and oats, as well as perennial grasses such as fescue, orchard grass, timothy and ryegrass. Ergot is different from tall fescue endophyte, which infects the host plant between cell walls. The ergot fungus occurs on the surface of plants. It produces spores that infect the flowering seedhead of grasses. “When the flower opens, the spore enters and it starts developing there,” Roberts said. Spores develop into ergot bodies that contain high concentrations of ergot alkaloids.

38 MARCH 2016

Producers can identify the ergot bodies as dark chocolate brown growths on the seedheads. “They look like mouse droppings,” Roberts said. The ergot bodies can infect as many as one in every five to 10 seedheads. The toxins produced are concentrated, resulting in more severe symptoms than the endophyte produces. “Ergot poisoning was first reported in human diets,” Roberts said. In Colonial days, people associated it with rye since that was a popular food source. “In certain years, the conditions were right for spores to be present and infect the plant,” he said. Unaware of the problem, farmers would harvest the infected rye and make bread, which caused ergotism when consumed. Ergotism causes vasoconstriction. Toxins make the blood vessels narrow and cut off circulation from the extremities. Ears, tails and hooves can die and fall off as a result. The disease also causes the area around an animal’s hoof to be extremely hot, a symptom producers often mislabel as fescue foot. “Fescue foot is a winter symptom,” Roberts said.

While some years ergot isn’t an issue, if conditions are right, an epidemic can result. “We had that in 2013,” Roberts said. “It was so widespread. We had ergot poisoning throughout Missouri and Iowa.” He referred to the band of states across the country between Minnesota and Louisiana as the humid sub-tropic region. “In this region, we’ll see an outbreak every five to seven years,” he said. Conditions are ideal when an area has an excessive wet spring, followed by a hot and humid summer. “If you walk outside and it feels like you’re in an incubator because it’s so humid — those are the conditions we’ve seen related to ergot outbreaks,” Roberts said. The MU agronomy team keeps a close eye on the climate during late spring and early summer. When excessive rain falls in May and saturates the soil, producers should prepare for ergot to present itself. “When that occurs and June and July will be hot, we tell folks to look out for ergot bodies,” Roberts said. Observation and prevention is key to protecting cattle from ergotism. “You just have to keep an eye on it,” he said. When ergot is present, it’s very noticeable. “I’ve gotten so used to seeing those seedheads that I can spot ergot while going 70 mph down the highway,” he said. At a glance,

infected fields look like the seedheads were sprinkled with pepper. “It’s a problem,” he said. Not only because of the severe symptoms it causes, but because it occurs microclimate. Roberts said it could be in only one field on a farm. Or, it could be on one producer’s farm, but not his neighbor’s. Roberts encourages producers to clip seedheads or use treatments that prevent them from forming. “It’s only a problem when the seedheads are present,” Roberts said. Sometimes grazing pressure can keep seedheads from developing. A recently introduced treatment method suppresses seedhead development on tall fescue using a herbicide. The treatment is designed to prevent fescue toxicity caused by endophyte, but Roberts said it prevents ergot poisoning also. If pastures become infected or cattle show signs of ergotism, producers should rotate animals to a clean field. Lameness is the most common sign of ergotism in cattle. “The main way to treat ergotism is don’t let cattle consume ergot-infected seedheads,” Roberts said. Producers should observe hay pastures for ergot infection before harvesting forage. If the ergot bodies don’t fall out of the hay during harvest, cattle will consume the toxins and get ergotism. The only way to manage the issue is through prevention.

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MARCH 2016

PASTURE PLANNING

How Much is Enough? Weigh the odds when applying manure as fertilizer

he use of livestock manure in cropping systems has many advantages. Animal manure can reduce the cost of fertilizer inputs. Manure can help build or maintain soil fertility, increase water-holding capacity and improve soil tilth. In addition to major plant nutrients of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, manure also contains many micronutrients such as calcium, sulfur, zinc, boron, copper, magnesium and manganese. However, application of manure in excess of needs can reduce the following crop yield, create surface and groundwater pollution and reduce the economic returns that are desired. Land application of manure should always be applied at proper rates and soil conditions to eliminate or reduce erosion and runoff possibilities. The longer that manure is on the soil prior to crop uptake, the more

40 MARCH 2016

possibilities exist for nutrient losses through mineralization, volatilization, denitrification, leaching and erosion. Uniform application or spread should take into consideration timing so plants can efficiently uptake nutrients and reduce any negative environmental impact. Fall manure applications are often necessary. This management practice allows for increased storage capacity for manure accumulations during the cold, wet winter months. The least desirable application is during the winter when the soil is frozen and nutrients are not able to bind with the soil. Manure lying on the surface of frozen ground therefore is more apt to be lost from the system. While recent warmer winters have stretched the application window, producers should consider potential negative environmental impacts of winter applications.

It is always recommended that a manure sample be submitted for analysis prior to application so that the producer is applying adequate quantities for crop need but not in excess for environmental interference. This should be matched with an appropriate soil-testing program. Both soil and manure testing is available through the University of Missouri (MU) Soil Testing and Plant Diagnostic Service. Samples can be submitted through your local MU Extension center. The nutrient needs of the crop to be grown should be also taken into consideration so that proper manure application rates are utilized. Table 1 lists a few of the values for above ground portion of the plants when only grain is removed.

Waste-handling systems can affect the nutrient composition. Moisture content and bedding type can result in less available nutrients per pound of product. Ammonia nitrogen can be lost to the air, and open lot or stockpiles can lose nitrogen to leaching. As good stewards of this land, it is imperative that producers develop a good manure management plan from the feeding of livestock to application of manure on the land. Anything less helps the public create negative stereotypes of production agriculture, which affects all producers and generally leads to harsher regulations. —Source: Todd Lorenz, agronomy specialist, University of Missouri Extension.

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ECONOMIC INDICATORS

U.S. imports of Canadian cattle: A look back and a look ahead Significant herd expansion expected in Canada this year Story By Derrell S. Peel

ith the final 2015 trade data in hand, it is possible to look back and summarize 2015 North American cattle trade. Limited cattle inventories, market conditions and exchange rates all played a part in 2015 cattle trade between the U.S. and Canada and suggest what might be expected in 2016.

attractive. This is an indication of the tightness of Canadian cattle supplies and suggests that cattle imports from Canada will continue at reduced levels, though 2016 imports may be closer to already reduced 2015 levels. The sharp adjustment down in U.S. cattle prices in 2016, compared to most of 2015, will additionally limit incentives for cattle movement from Canada into the U.S. A very limited attempt at herd expansion in Canada in 2013 has been followed by more erosion of cattle inventories in 2014 and 2015. Should herd expansion begin significantly in 2016, supplies of feeder heifers and cull cows would likely be further squeezed. In any event, imports of Canadian cattle are likely to remain near or below 2015 levels in 2016 and below the average of recent years. â&#x20AC;&#x201C;Source: Derrell S. Peel is Oklahoma State University Extension livestock marketing specialist.

Total imports of Canadian cattle were down 33.2 percent year over year in 2015 with decreases across the board for all cattle types. This follows three years of year-overyear increases in imports of Canadian cattle with the 2015 total dropping back near the 2012 level. This reflects small Canadian cattle inventories that have not yet begun to rebuild. Total fed steer and heifer imports were down 42.3 percent, with fed steers down 40.6 percent and fed heifers down 44.6 percent. Average Canadian feedlot placements in 2015 reached the lowest levels in data going back to 2000. Though year-over-year feedlot placements in Canada have increased the past three months, it is likely that feedlot production in Canada will remain low as there is no indication that cattle inventories have increased yet in Canada. Herd rebuilding might begin in 2016, but dry conditions remain in western Canada â&#x20AC;&#x201D; though less severe compared to several months ago â&#x20AC;&#x201D; and might limit herd expansion in 2016 as it did in 2015. Imports of Canadian feeder cattle dropped sharply year-over-year after spiking up in 2014. Imports of feeder steers were down 7.9 percent from 2014 levels while feeder heifers were down 41.6 percent from the previous year. The drop in feeder heifer imports could imply heifer retention in Canada, but the 2015 level of heifer imports is actually close to the average of recent years and is down only relative to the sharp jump in feeder heifers imported from Canada in 2014. Imports of Canadian cull cows were down 25.9 percent year over year, with imports of cull bulls down a similar amount. As with feeder cattle, the decrease in imports of Canadian cows and bulls could be indicative of herd rebuilding in Canada but actually represent a return to more typical levels after sharply higher imports of cows and bulls the previous two years. Smaller imports of Canadian cattle in 2015 occurred despite strong U.S. cattle prices through most of the year and the continued erosion of the Canadian dollar to the U.S. dollar, which makes exporting cattle to the U.S. even more

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MARCH 2016

ECONOMIC INDICATORS

Lower Net Incomes, Decreased Rental Rates on the Horizon K-State agricultural economists discuss how low commodity prices might affect producers Story By Chloe Creager

he agricultural industry is entering a period of margin compression, in which revenues are depressed and costs remain elevated, according to Brian Briggeman, Kansas State University associate professor of agricultural economics and director of the Arthur Capper

Cooperative Center. As a result, farming profits are expected to be thin, and net incomes are projected to be lower in 2016. Producers can also expect lower commodity prices this year, Briggeman said. For example, the average predicted

Lower commodity prices are expected for 2016, with corn projected at $3.60 per bushel, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Photo by Joann Pipkin

farm price for corn by the U.S. Department of Agriculture for 2015-2016 is $3.60 per bushel,

a 10-cent decrease from the average in 2014-2015. An overall poor economic outlook for agriculture this year also means landowners should expect that leasing producers will want to renegotiate their cropland leases, according to Mykel Taylor, K-State Research and Extension agricultural economist.

Contributing factors and predicted effects Commodity prices have come off of their recent highs, and production costs remain elevated. As a result, profit margins have narrowed, which creates profit margin compression. Factors contributing to this tightening of margins include burgeoning supplies and a slowing demand for agricultural products, along with higher production costs and expenses associated with new technology developments, according to Briggeman. Producers should not be expecting additional increases in interest rates in the immediate future due to turmoil in international markets, low oil prices and concerns about inflation in the United States being too low, Briggeman said. Producers might have a harder time getting loans, however, because lenders will likely want more information from customers. Tighter financing and higher credit standards are directly tied to periods of margin compression. Getting through a period of margin compression comes down to the individual management of an operation, he added. Producers should focus on building liquidity to stave CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE

42 MARCH 2016

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LOWER NET INCOMES FROM PREVIOUS PAGE off downside risks, rather than trying to expand and overextending themselves. In addition, producers need to know their per-acre costs of production, because that will help them lock in profit opportunities when they arise. “Producers do not have to completely sit on the sidelines,” Briggeman said. “They need to be mindful of how they deploy their capital at this time. It comes down to, “What can I control within my operation, and how do I best do that?”

Leasing adjustments Among the items that might or might not be in a farmer’s control are leasing agreements. Farmers who are renting land might not actually pay rates as low as the predicted amount, for fear of losing the land they are currently leasing or because they locked in rental rates when they were at their peak a few years ago, according to Taylor. As a result, conflict between landlords and tenants might exist if these rates are now too high as agricultural profits decrease.

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Since half of the land in Kansas is leased, impact could be statewide. Good communication is a significant factor in working out potential conflicts, she said. “Approach this as something where you want to try to work through it with your existing tenant, if you have a good relationship,” Taylor recommended. “You should be able to find some middle ground that is still relatively affordable but does not undermine the landlord’s need for income.” If it is not possible to find a rate that both the landowner and producer can afford, however, then some producers might be forced to walk away from their current leases, she added. “That will happen,” Taylor said. “Rental rates are sticky, because we don’t move off of those rates quickly. But, you have to deal with economic reality. This isn’t a producerspecific problem; this is being driven by low commodity prices.” —Source: Adapted from a K-State University Extension release. www.joplinstockyards.com

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MARCH 2016

PASTURE PLANNING

Build a Better Soil Organic matter serves important role in soil health Story By Eddie Funderburg

f all the components of soil, organic matter is probably the most important and most misunderstood. Organic matter serves as a reservoir of nutrients and water in the soil, aids in reducing compaction and surface crusting, and increases water infiltration into the soil. Yet, it’s often ignored and neglected. Let’s examine the contributions of soil organic matter and talk about how to maintain or increase it.

proximately 2 million pounds, which means that 1 percent organic matter in soil weighs about 20,000 pounds. Remember, it takes at least 10 pounds of organic material to decompose to 1 pound of organic matter. Furthermore, it takes at least 200,000 pounds, or 100

instead of being returned to the soil. Soils formed under prairie vegetation usually have native organic matter levels at least twice as high as those formed under forest vegetation.

What are the benefits of organic matter? • Nutrient supply. Organic matter is a reservoir of nutrients released to the soil. Each 1 percent of soil organic matter releases 20 to 30 pounds

Organic matter is stable in the soil. It has been decomposed until it is resistant to further decomposition. Usually, only about 5 percent of it mineralizes yearly. That rate increases if temperature, oxygen and moisture conditions become favorable for decomposition. This often occurs with excessive tillage. Stable organic matter is analyzed in a soil test.

How much organic matter is in the soil? An acre of soil measured to a depth of 6.67 inches weighs ap-

44 MARCH 2016

How can I maintain or improve soil organic matter levels? Building soil organic matter is a long-term process but can be beneficial. Here are a few ways to do it:

Tillage increases the aeration of the soil and causes a flush of microbial action that speeds up the decomposition of organic matter. Tillage also often increases erosion. No-till practices help build organic matter.

Many times we think of organic matter as the plant and animal residues we incorporate into the soil. We see a pile of leaves, manure or plant parts and think, “Wow! I’m adding a lot of organic matter to the soil.” This stuff is actually organic material, not organic matter.

Organic material is anything that was alive and is now in or on the soil. For it to become organic matter, it must be decomposed into humus. Humus is organic material that has been converted by microorganisms to a resistant state of decomposition. Organic material is unstable in the soil, changing form and mass readily as it decomposes. Decomposition causes as much as 90 percent of organic material to disappear quickly.

This property of organic matter is not widely known. Data used in the universal soil loss equation indicate that increasing soil organic matter from 1 to 3 percent can reduce erosion 20 to 33 percent because of increased water infiltration and stable soil aggregate formation caused by organic matter.

• Reduce or eliminate tillage.

What is organic matter?

What’s the difference between organic material and organic matter?

• Erosion prevention.

• Reduce erosion.

tons, of organic material applied or returned to the soil to add 1 percent stable organic matter under favorable conditions. In soils formed under prairie vegetation, organic matter levels are generally comparatively high because organic material was supplied from both the top growth and roots. We don’t usually think of roots as supplying organic material, but a study in the Upper Great Plains showed that a mixed prairie had an above-ground (shoot) yield of 1.4 tons of organic material per acre, while the root yield was about 4 tons per acre. The plants were producing roots that were more than twice the weight of the shoots. Soils that have developed under forest vegetation usually have comparably low organic matter levels. There are at least two reasons for these levels: Trees produce a much smaller root mass per acre than grass plants. Trees do not die back and decompose every year. Instead, much of the organic material in a forest is tied up in the trees

of nitrogen, 4.5 to 6.6 pounds of P2O5, and 2 to 3 pounds of sulfur per year. The nutrient release occurs predominantly in the spring and summer, so summer crops benefit more from organic matter mineralization than winter crops.

• Water-holding capacity. Organic matter behaves somewhat like a sponge, with the ability to absorb and hold up to 90 percent of its weight in water. A great advantage of the water-holding capacity of organic matter is that the matter will release most of the water it absorbs to plants. In contrast, clay holds great quantities of water but much of it is unavailable to plants. An increase of 1 percent soil organic matter can result in an increase of 16,500 gallons of plant-available water per acre.

• Soil structure aggregation. Organic matter causes soil to clump and form soil aggregates, which improves soil structure. With better soil structure, permeability (infiltration of water through the soil) improves, in turn improving the soil’s ability to take up and hold water.

Most soil organic matter is in the topsoil. When soil erodes, organic matter goes with it. Saving soil and soil organic matter go hand-in-hand.

• Soil test and fertilize properly. Proper fertilization encourages growth of plants, which increases root growth. Increased root growth can help build or maintain soil organic matter, even if you are removing much of the top growth.

• Grow cover crops. Growing cover crops can help build or maintain soil organic matter. However, best results are achieved when cover crops are combined with tillage reduction and erosion control measures. A good supply of soil organic matter is beneficial in crop or forage production. Consider the benefits of this valuable resource and how you can manage your operation to build or at least maintain the organic matter in your soil. —Source: This article is reprinted with permission from the Samuel L. Roberts Noble Foundation for Agriculture. Visit the Noble Foundation online at www.noble.org.

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MARCH 2016

PASTURE PLANNING

Time to Fertilize Get cool season grasses growing now

ven though in the winter landscape they might seem to be asleep, cool season forages are saying: “feed me.” Dirk Philipp, animal science associate professor for the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture, said cool season grasses have two distinct periods of growth: one starts in late February and peaks in May, and the other in the autumn, peaking in November, when daytime temperatures are cool. “Winter annual forages such as small grains like rye and wheat probably grow at high rates as well,” he said. “For them, fertilizer applications are particularly important, because now is the time jointing – tillering and stem elongation – starts.”

46 MARCH 2016

“The time for applying fertilizer on your cool season grasses, and grass-clover mixes is ideally now,” Philipp said. Before applying any fertilizer, it’s important to have had the soil tested. While it’s still possible to test so late in the game, there are some consequences. “It may result in sticker shock for the amount of nutrients needed or that you find your pH is not in check,” he said. The soil pH should be kept between 6 and 7.5 for most crops. So what happens if the soil test shows phosphorus and potassium to be very low, pointing to an expensive purchase of nutrients?

Fertilizing cool season grasses and grass-clover mixes is important now ahead of peak growth, which occurs in May. — Photo by University of Arkansas Extension.

“Don’t panic,” Philipp said. “Portion the applications out to ease the effect on your wallet if needed.” Unlike nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium might be applied so that soil test levels keep steady over time. “So if you missed it this time, these nutrients are relatively immobile in the soil and will be available later on to subsequent crops or growing cycles,” he said.

A few things to keep in mind: • Potassium is needed for the proper functioning of enzymes, water use and photosynthesis. • If clovers are in the mix, potassium levels have to be kept in check. CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE

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Before applying any fertilizer, it’s important to have the soil tested. Soil pH should be kept between 6.7 and 7 for most crops. Dirk Philip, University of Arkansas animal scientist, says portioning out the applications can ease costs. — Photos by Joann Pipkin

TIME TO FERTILIZE FROM PREVIOUS PAGE • Phosphorus is less of a problem, but on pastures that are newly established from woodlands, or when phosphorus hasn’t been applied for a long time, applications might be needed. Phosphorus is essential for early root development, winter hardiness, disease resistance and drought tolerance. When it comes to nitrogen, always apply according to the recommendations, Philipp said. “Available nitrogen can’t really be measured, so you have to rely on the lab prediction,” he said. “The lab can make much better recom-

mendations based on your past fertilizer history if they have past records of your soil tests.” Philipp said that when submitting your soil test, “Indicate clearly on the soil box what you plan to do with the field, yield expectations.” There’s one more cost caveat. “In spring, soil temperatures are relatively low so microbial activity is relatively low as well; therefore, nitrogen cannot be mobilized as quickly as necessary for rapid plant growth, so grasses will have to rely on added synthetic fertilizer, so don’t skimp on the fertilizer applications.” –Source: University of Arkansas Extension.

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MARCH 2016

MANAGEMENT MATTERS

Take the Bite Out of Rabies Watch for this virus in cattle, too Story By Lisa Henderson for Cattlemen’s News

hile rabies is often associated with dogs and wildlife, rabies can also be a concern with cattle and horses. And, unlike wildlife, cattle and horses potentially have much more opportunity for contact with humans, increasing the concern for transmission to humans. Rabies has one of the highest casefatality ratios of any infectious disease. Veterinarians say cattle with “furious” rabies can be dangerous, attacking and pursuing humans and other animals. Cattle with

“dumb” or paralytic rabies have minimal behavior changes, but progress into paralysis. Veterinarians stress that if you suspect rabies in an animal to call a veterinarian for diagnosis immediately. As with many diseases, the best rabies strategy is prevention. “Rabies prevention is dependent on vaccination,” said Gregg Hanzlicek, D.V.M. at Kansas State University’s Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory. “All dogs, cats, horses and frequently-handled bovines should be vaccinated for rabies. The vaccines on the market are extremely, extremely effective at preventing rabies infections.” Rabies is spread through the saliva of an infected animal. Infection occurs typically through a bite wound, but rabies containing saliva might also enter the body through already existing sores, wounds or cuts, causing an infection. This virus is unique in that it moves through the animal by way of the nerves and spinal cord, not blood. “Rabies is a virus, and in our area, skunks are the reservoir hosts. In other areas of the country, raccoons, foxes, bats are reservoir host, but not here,” Hanzlicek says. Producers should watch out for abnormal behavior in cattle in the case of a rabies infection. In bovines, that includes abnormal behavior such as extreme agitation or aggression from a normally docile animal. “They then move into a more docile behavior (where the) aggressive state is very rarely observed,” Hanzlicek said. “More commonly, a change in normal behavior where they become lethargic, suddenly very docile, attempt to urinate frequently and a ‘strange’ frequent vocalization. There are no symptoms or clinical signs where one can say, yes this is rabies. If an owner notices the above states, it is best to call their veterinarian to determine the likelihood this is a rabies case.” Hanzlicek also suggested the following tips: * There is no treatment for animals or humans. All infected animals will die usually shortly after showing clinical signs. They can however be infectious before clinical signs. CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE

48 MARCH 2016

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TAKE THE BITE OUT OF RABIES FROM PREVIOUS PAGE • If a producer notices an animal acting strange, it is important they call their veterinarian. • Do not try to feed or look in the mouth of an animal; let the veterinarian complete the examination. Veterinarians have usually been immunized against rabies, and they are trained to safely examine a rabies-suspect animal. • There is no before death test for rabies. Diagnosis requires a very specific portion of the brain be sent for testing. Clinical signs of rabies can be varied in cattle and other animals. Some of the more common clinical signs in cattle include:

carry a risk for rabies virus transmission. Risk factors depend in part on the sites of exposure, the amount of virus present, the severity of the wounds, and whether sufficient contaminated tissue has been excised. Historically, federal guidelines for meat inspectors required that any animal known to have been exposed to rabies within 8 months be rejected for slaughter. The USDA Food and Inspection Service and state meat inspectors should be notified when such exposures occur in food animals before slaughter. Rabies virus is widely distributed in tissues of rabid animals. Tissues and products from a rabid animal should not be used for human or animal consumption or transplantation. Pasteurization and cooking inactivate rabies virus; therefore, inadvertently drinking pasteurized milk or eating thoroughly cooked animal products does not constitute a rabies exposure.

• Sudden change in behavior • Progressive paralysis • Ataxia • Abrupt cessation of lactation in dairy animals • Hypersensitivity/alertness • Abnormal bellowing • Paralysis of the throat • Drooling • Head extension • Bloat • Choking behavior The National Association of State Public Health Veterinarians, Inc., issued the Compendium of Animal Rabies Prevention and Control, 2011. The Compendium includes this information on rabies: Livestock. All species of livestock are susceptible to rabies; cattle and horses are the most frequently reported infected species. Any illness in an animal exposed to rabies should be reported immediately to the local health and agriculture officials. If signs suggestive of rabies develop, the animal should be euthanized and the head shipped for testing. Unvaccinated livestock should be euthanized immediately. For animals that are not euthanized, on a case-by-case basis, they should be observed and confined for 6 months. Livestock exposed to a rabid animal and currently vaccinated with a vaccine approved by USDA for that species should be revaccinated immediately and observed for 45 days. Multiple rabid animals in a herd or herbivore-to-herbivore transmission are uncommon; therefore, restricting the rest of the herd if a single animal has been exposed to or infected by rabies is usually not necessary. Handling and consumption of tissues from animals exposed to rabies might

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MARCH 2016

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Cattlemen Express Concerns with Market Volatility Industry must work together

fter hearing concerns from membership nationwide, the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association has instituted a working group with the CME Group to address volatility in the cattle markets. Colin Woodall, NCBA senior vice president of government affairs, said working together as an industry is the best way to resolve the issues.

“Recently the cattle markets have been susceptible to volatile limit price moves without corresponding market news,” said Woodall. “The result has been decreased confidence for cattlemen using the futures markets as a risk protection tool. This is not an issue for the government to address, but an issue the industry can resolve by working with CME.” NCBA has asked CME to address specific areas of concern including implementing a delay between trading actions, greater enforcement against market spoofing, monitoring and reporting of market misuse, and the release of audit trail data. “While CME has announced certain measures, the effect of automated trading remains unresolved,” said Woodall. “The market needs liquidity, but it must also serve the function of a meaningful risk management tool. If the playing field is not leveled between speculators, commercial traders, and producers; then our industry loses a critical marketing tool.” —Source: National Cattlemen’s Beef Association

50 MARCH 2016

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ON THE CALENDAR

NIAA, NCBA Partner to Support Cattle Producers with BVD Forum in Kansas City Conference to address BVD disease challenges

he National Institute for Animal Agriculture will host a BVD Forum for beef producers and animal health officials in conjunction with the NIAA Annual Conference, April 4-7, 2016. The meeting, “BVD: An Industry Prevention Strategies & Solutions Forum,” will be April 7, 2016, at the Kansas City Marriott Downtown in Kansas City, Missouri.

The forum will be held April 7, 2016, in conjunction with the NIAA Annual Conference which runs April 4-7, 2016, in Kansas City, Missouri. at the Downtown Marriott. For more information, visit animalagriculture.org or contact the NIAA by calling 719-538-8843 or emailing niaa@animalagriculture.org.

Get More for Your Cattle! The commingling program at Joplin Regional Stockyards groups together cattle from producers into larger lots to offer buyers a greater selection.

1,419 producers served and 6,453 head marketed through our commingling program since Sept. 1, 2015. Arrive Sundays by 5 p.m. to commingle.

“Disease prevention through vaccination and proper biosecurity is an important component of the Beef Quality Assurance program,” said Josh White, executive director of producer education for the National Cattleman’s Beef Association and the BVD Forum planning committee co-chair. “Re-considering how we manage health risk in our herds is a valuable exercise, and BVD provides an excellent example of a disease that can be successfully managed.” BVD affects all segments of the beef and dairy industries. While there is a great deal of knowledge exists on the disease, the virus still presents various challenges to cattle producers. “Veterinarians and researchers have worked together with cattle producers to develop BVD control strategies based on utilization of accurate diagnostic tests and effective immunization protocols,” said Dr. Robert Larson, Coleman chair in production medicine at Kansas State University.” Because of management differences between different segments of the U.S. cattle herd and variation in risk factors between individual herds, optimum BVD control and prevention strategies will vary greatly between herds. This forum provides an opportunity for researchers, veterinarians, and producers to share the latest developments in our understanding of BVD virus and its control.” Larson hopes to see a variety of outcomes from the forum including: improved understanding of the virus, increased cost-effectiveness of control and prevention strategies and effective implementation of control strategies in a variety of production strategies. “Anyone with an interest in updating their knowledge of BVD and its prevention and control should come to the forum, including: researchers, veterinarians, extension educators, and cattle producers,” Larson said.

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MARCH 2016

ers from several companies perfected replacing toxic endophyte with nontoxic endophyte.

ON THE CALENDAR

Spruce Up Your Pastures Schools teach replacing toxic grass with novelendophyte fescue variety

group that helps grassland farmers replace toxic tall fescue with nontoxicendophyte fescue is coming to Oklahoma. The Alliance for Grassland Renewal, which worked in Missouri for the past three years, will hold its first outof-state grass-renewal school at 9 a.m., March 28, at the Cherokee Red Barn Café in Welch, Oklahoma. Three sessions will be held across Missouri. The one-day workshop was refined in repeated session at four locations across Missouri each year. “We’ve taken suggestions from farmers to tell what they need to know,” says Craig Roberts, University of

Missouri Extension specialist, Columbia.

forage

The Alliance, a national organization, was formed in 2012 to improve pasture performance of animals suffering fescue toxicosis. Roberts, a native of northeastern Oklahoma, says his home area is a hotbed of toxic fescue. “There are many producers who can benefit from the new novel-endophyte fescues.” The Alliance expects to draw farmers from the four corners of Oklahoma, Kansas, Arkansas and Missouri. The schools help farmers in making successful conversion from toxic Kentucky-31 fescue to one of several varieties available. Plant breed-

Endophyte, a fungus, grows between cell walls of tall fescue. The original endophyte in K-31 produces a toxin with serious side effects in grazing livestock, particularly cattle and horses. The fescue remains a popular cool-season grass. However, the endophyte is new. The fungus protects the fescue. Endophyte-free fescue did not work in grazing systems. The Alliance tells many advantages: No more fescue foot, heavier weaning weights, smooth hair coats, higher conception rates and thrifty production. “Just knowing calves gain twice as fast appeals to producers,” Roberts says. Conversion isn’t simple. The schools are meticulous in teaching the fine points of establishment. The first step

eradicates long-standing fescue stands. That is time-consuming. “One big advantages of fescue is that it is hardy—and hard to kill,” Roberts says. For new varieties to compete, the old stand must be eradicated. That is an almost yearlong process. MU researchers perfected a method called “spray-smother-spray.” Replacement starts with grazing down and then spraying with herbicide. Next, a cover crop is no-tilled into the sod. Over summer, that crop can be a warm-season Sudan forage. In winter, that is a small grain such as cereal rye or wheat. The cover crop smothers seedlings emerging from the soil. At last, the field is sprayed again to kill any remaining toxic tillers. Only then can a new novel-endophyte variety have a clean start. CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE

You don’t buY his loYaltY. You earn it. With superior retention, unsurpassed ease of application and outstanding readability, no wonder so many cattlemen are fiercely loyal to genuine Z Tags one-piece ear tags. To view actual comments from satisfied Z Tags users, visit ztags.com today.

52 MARCH 2016

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SPRUCE UP YOUR PASTURES FROM PREVIOUS PAGE “We tell everything, including hands-on skill of setting the no-till drill,” Roberts says. The 2016 school locations and contacts: • Mar. 28, Welch, Okla., Cherokee Red Barn. Shirley Hudson, 918-542-4576 or ottawaccd@conservation. ok.gov. • Mar. 29, Mount Vernon, Mo., MU Southwest Research Center. Eldon Cole, 417-4663102 or ColeE@missouri.edu.

• Mar. 31, Linneus, MU Forage Systems Research Center. Racheal Foster-Neal, 660-895-5121 or FosterNealR@missouri.edu. A registration fee covers meal, refreshments and proceedings. Speakers include MU faculty and extension specialists, NRCS specialists and a grass farmer at each site. For more information, go to grasslandrenewal.org. —Source: University of Missouri Cooperative Media Group.

• Mar. 30, Columbia, MU Beef Farm. Lena Johnson, 573-882-7327 or JohnsonL@ missouri.edu.

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MARCH 2016

March

EVENT ROUNDUP

Bull Breeding Soundess Exam Clinic Barry County Veterinary Service, Cassville, Missouri FMI: 417-847-2677

7-19

Bull Breeding Soundess & Health Exams Wooderson Veterinary Clinic, Bolivar, Missouri FMI: 417-326-8381

Building It From the Ground Up Workshop Series First Baptist Church, Osceola, Missouri FMI: 417-646-2419

Jacs Ranch Spring Bull and Commercial Female Sale at the ranch in Bentonville, Arkansas FMI: 479-273-3030

Salyer & Sons Salers Production Sale at the farm, Billings, Missouri FMI: 417-744-2025

Wright Charolais 9th Annual Herd Sire Presentation Kearney, Missouri FMI: 816-776-3512

Superior Beef Genetics Private Treaty Bull Sale Lamar, Missouri FMI: 417-214-0290

15-16 Bull Breeding Soundness Exam Clinic Dake Veterinary Clinic, Miller, Missouri FMI: 417-452-3301 17

Bull Breeding Soundness Exam Clinic Countryside Animal Clinic, Aurora, Missouri FMI: 417-678-4011

Building It From the Ground Up Workshop Series First Baptist Church, Osceola, Missouri FMI: 417-646-2419

Monthly Cow and Bull Sale Joplin Regional Stockyards, Carthage, Missouri FMI: 417-548-2333

Sunflower Genetics 20th Annual Production Sale at the ranch near Maple Hill, Kansas FMI: 785-640-8060

18-20 Ozark Spring Roundup Ozark Empire Fairgrounds, Springfield, Missouri FMI: 417-833-2660 19

Aschermann Charolais 22nd Edition Bull Sale at ranch near Carthage, Missouri FMI: 417-793-2855

Circle A Angus Ranch Spring Sale at the ranch, Iberia, Missouri FMI: 1-800-Circle-A

Falling Timber Farm 7th Annual Bull & Female Sale Falling Timber Farm, Marthasville, Missouri FMI: 636-358-4161

Pinegar Limousin Auto Herdbuilder Sale Springfield, Missouri FMI: 1-877-PINEGAR

Taney County Hay School Forsyth, Missouri FMI: 417-546-4431

Kranjec Valley Angus Farm Production Sale Marquand, Missouri FMI: Email kristofork94@gmail.com

19-4/2 Bull Breeding Soundness Exam Clinics Country Side Vet Clinic, Bolivar, Missouri

FMI: 417-326-2992

Genetrust Brangus Sale Suhn Cattle Co., Eureka, Kansas FMI: 1-877-436-3877

54 MARCH 2016

March 23

Stevens Land & Cattle 18th Annual Production Sale at the farm near Carmen, Oklahoma FMI: 580-327-7367

Bull Breeding Soundness Exam Clinic Animal Clinic of Diamond, Diamond, Missouri FMI: 417-325-4136

Building It From the Ground Up Workshop Series First Baptist Church, Osceola, Missouri FMI: 417-646-2419

Seedstock Plus South Missouri Bull Sale Joplin Regional Stockyards, Carthage, Missouri FMI: 877-486-1160

Professional Beef Genetics Bull Sale Windsor Livestock Auction, Windsor, Missouri FMI: 800-724-2855

Worthington Angus Production Sale Dadeville, Missouri FMI: 417-844-2601

Fescue Renovation School Cherokee Red Barn Cafe, Welch, Oklahoma FMI: 918-542-4576

Green Springs Bull Test Sale Nevada, Missouri FMI: 417-448-7416

Magness Land and Cattle Limousin Bull Sale Miami, Oklahoma FMI: 970-785-6170

Oleen Brothers Angus and Hereford Bull Sale Dwight, Kansas FMI: 785-466-1422

Southwest Missouri Performance Tested Bull Sale Springfield Livestock Mktg. Center, Springfield, Missouri FMI: 417-345-8330

KW Cattle Co. Angus Bull Sale at the ranch, near Fort Scott, Kansas FMI: 620-224-7305

Fescue Renovation School MU Southwest Center, Mount Vernon, Missouri FMI: 417-466-3102

Building It From the Ground Up Workshop Series First Baptist Church, Osceola, Missouri FMI: 417-646-2419

April 1

2 p.m. Spring Turn-Out, Tune-Up Benton County Fairgrounds, Bentonville, Arkansas FMI: 479-271-1060

Satterfield Charolais and Angus Sale Evening Shade, Arkansas FMI: 501-941-9274

Heterosis Headquarters Annual Bull and Heifer Sale Huss Livestock Market, Kearney, Nebraska FMI: 308-226-2576

Building It From the Ground Up Workshop Series First Baptist Church, Osceola, Missouri FMI: 417-646-2419

Stone County Hay School Stone County, Missouri FMI: 417-357-6812

Newton County Hay School Neosho High School Ag Room, Neosho, Missouri FMI: 417-355-9500

5th Annual Highland Cattle Auction Lebanon Livestock Barn, Lebanon, Missouri FMI: 417-693-0858

Pinegar Limousin Road to Lexington Sale Springfield, Missouri FMI: 1-877-PINEGAR www.joplinstockyards.com

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MARCH 2016

MARKET WATCH

Joplin Regional Stockyards Market Recap | Feeder Cattle & Calf Auction February 2016 • Receipts 22,444 | Last Month 32,653 | Last Year 12,512

JRS Sale Day Market Phone: (417) 548-2012 Mondays (Rick Huffman) | Wednesdays (Don Kleiboeker) Market Information Provided By Tony Hancock Mo. Department of Agriculture Market News Service Market News Hotline (573) 522-9244 Sale Day Market Reporter (417) 548-2012

Video Markets from 2/5/2016 • Total Video Receipts 4,496 head

Tune in to the JRS Market Report

Monday 12:15 p.m. Wednesday 12:15 p.m.

56 MARCH 2016

Monday 12:40 p.m. Wednesday 12:40 p.m.

M-F 9:55-10:05 a.m. (during break before AgriTalk) M/W/F Noon Hour (during Farming in the Four States) T/Th Noon Hour (after news block)

Monday 11:30 a.m. Wednesday 11:30 a.m. Monday 11:45 a.m. Wednesday 11:45 a.m.

Monday 11:38 a.m. Wednesday 11:38 a.m.

Monday 12:50 p.m. & 4:45 p.m. Wednesday 12:50 p.m. & 4:45 p.m.

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ON THE CALENDAR

Learning the fundamentals of animal nutrition Kansas State University’s IGP Institute to offer fiveweek distance professional development course.

nimal nutrition can be a complex subject. To help shed light on some of the basics, the IGP Institute at Kansas State University will present online training this spring through its “Fundamentals of Animal Nutrition” course. Many wonder why some nutrients are important than others, how some animals utilize feeds better than others, and what value they should give to various ingredients when making purchasing decisions. These topics and more will be addressed throughout the course. The training is set for April 25–May 20, 2016. The sessions are designed for professionals who are interested in attaining an under-

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standing of animal nutritional requirements and the digestive systems of production animals. To register, visit IGP Institute Training. The registration deadline is March 18. The main focus will be on the elementary principles of farm animal nutrition, including anatomy, nutritional digestion, absorption, metabolism, and a general overview of the nutrients necessary for animal growth and development. By the course’s end, participants will understand how an animal’s digestive system and nutritional requirements influence the ingredients and makeup of feed. “It is important to understand the basics of animal nutrition

in order to work in the animal feed industry,” said Cassandra Jones, assistant professor of feed technology in grain science and industry. “Whether you are feeding animals, manufacturing feed, work in sales or marketing, or are responsible for procurement or logistics, understanding the background of animal nutrition helps you understand the purpose and function of the product with which you are dealing.” The course is a five-week, self-paced, online training, including lectures and readings specifically designed for industry professionals looking to gain a larger understanding of animal digestive anatomy and nutrition utilization. The course offers one continuing education credit. For information about registration, contact Brandi Miller at bmmillerk@ksu.edu or call 785-532-4053.

“The distance course allows the participants to attend the course where they are and at their own pace,” said Brandi Miller, interim associate director of the IGP Institute. “The course also brings the participants together to share their ideas and find answers to their questions.” This is one example of the distance courses offered in feed manufacturing and grain quality management presented by the IGP Institute. In addition, the institute provides trainings in the areas of flour milling and grain processing, and grain marketing and risk management. –Source: K-State release.

MARCH 2016

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CP, ADF, NDF, TDN, and RFV results! We fertilize to soil test, use safe weed control, drill legumes and moisture test as we bale. Square bales average 50#. Priced $4 to $7. Excellent load out facilities. Will discuss delivery quotes.

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SUPPLEMENTS What is CowBos™?

CowBos™ is a free-choice liquid feed supplement fed in open-top troughs supplying protein, energy and trace minerals in optimal proportions for maximum performance. CowBos™ increases microbial yield, efficiency and nutrient utilization. CowBos™ Bitter and Sweet are custom blended together on your farm in bi monthly personal deliveries to control consumption matching your specific herd needs and budget! Let us make a no obligation cost/content comparison to anything you are using now. What have you got to lose? You could GAIN time and labor. Be surprised at the value. Call today!

Jim / Mary • 417.350.5878 • mthihop@sbcglobal.net | Hi Hopes Farm Neil Bowers 417.398.1928 • cowbos@outlook.com | SW Missouri & SE Kansas

58 MARCH 2016

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Tolfenpro™ is busting through flies’ defenses with a unique molecule that has never been used for fly control on cattle.

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MARCH 2016

MFA IS A PROUD SPONSOR OF THE

Springfield Roundup FORMERLY HORSE FEST

March 18th-20th

Ozark Empire Fairgrounds, Springfield, MO

Winning the nutrition race. MFA has a complete line of horse feed and products to meet all your equine needs.

For information on MFA horse feeds call 573-876-5473 or visit www.mfa-inc.com M A D E F O R A G R I C U LT U R E

60 MARCH 2016