Know what information to maintain in your herd
3 min read
The start of a brand new yr usually is a chance to replicate upon the previous and set objectives for the longer term. On a ranching operation, Kansas State College Beef Cattle Institute specialists say it’s a good time to make recordkeeping and administration changes.
Talking on a current Cattle Chat podcast, the group of specialists agreed what information to maintain will range from operation to operation, however in 2023, there could also be some particular challenges that aren’t usually a priority, like drought. Data can assist you make higher administration selections.
“As you assume by way of your grazing plan in 2023, it’s good to consider that many elements of the nation are nonetheless in a drought. That will imply it’s good to have a contingency plan in your forage assets,” mentioned Phillip Lancaster, beef cattle nutritionist. “It may be useful to speak with somebody with grazing experience from the NRCS that will help you arrange a plan for drought-stressed pastures.”
Plan forward
Assembly the herd’s dietary wants is one facet of an total well being plan, veterinarian Bob Larson mentioned. “ total cattle well being plan consists of good diet, good housing and good biosecurity,” he mentioned.
Particular to housing, Larson mentioned that cattle have to be maintained on pastures that aren’t overstocked and may be moved simply when wanted. He inspired producers to verify water sources and fencing to verify these are nicely maintained for the yr forward.
Relating to biosecurity, Larson mentioned it is very important work with the native veterinarian to develop a vaccination program and protocol for introducing new cattle onto the ranch.
Get outdoors experience
Veterinarian Brian Lubbers urged ranchers take the time early within the yr to the touch base with their veterinarian.
“It is a good time to schedule a routine go to both on Zoom or when they’re in your ranch to be sure to are in settlement in your well being plan shifting ahead,” Lubbers mentioned.
The veterinarian is only one of many native advisers who can provide experience, Larson mentioned. “You will need to construct that native group of specialists in your neighborhood, out of your accountant to your banker to your nutritionist, to present you concepts to think about as you make plans for the operation,” he mentioned.
Agricultural economist Dustin Pendell echoed Larson’s recommendation, including there are routine information which are necessary for each operation.
“You’ll need to observe your revenue and bills so that you’ve got what it’s good to full your taxes,” Pendell mentioned. “Your steadiness sheet may have your property, liabilities and web value, and that shall be necessary in your banker to see.”
One other necessary document that Pendell suggests ranchers observe is money stream. “Understanding the timing of when money is coming into and leaving the operation will provide help to handle your revenue and bills,” he mentioned.
Pendell additionally suggested that producers incorporate recordkeeping as a part of a routine quite than setting apart a day to cope with the accounting.
“Don’t put it off to a free day as a result of that day won’t ever come,” he mentioned. “As an alternative, make recordkeeping a part of your each day routine by jotting down some issues when you are having your morning espresso.”
To listen to the complete dialogue, hearken to the Cattle Chat podcast on-line or by way of your most popular streaming platform.
Moser writes for Kansas State College Analysis and Extension.
