All measures of cowherd production are affected to some extent by the nutritional status of the cow, which body condition scoring indicates. Here's how to body condition score your cowherd....More

Japan’s move to jump start its economy with a $1.4-trillion stimulus could raise the potential for retaliation by its trading partners, including the U.S. beef industry. U.S. beef exports might be hindered because of Japan's stimulus plan....More

In a drought, it seems that things cascade upon themselves to make matters worse. Take water, for instance. While quantity is one of the most immediate concerns, quality may be a limiting factor that can sneak up....More

Feedyard gross margin (fed steer less yearling steer) in 1996 averaged about $350/head, while total yearling steer investment was just slightly over $450/head. That gap has consistently (and unfavorably) widened ever since. Gross margin in 2012 was only about $60-65 more compared to the 1996 mark, but the investment required to obtain that margin has surged nearly 10 times that amount, as yearling steer costs have jumped $665 to average $1,125/head in 2012....More

The Federal Reserve’s cheap money policy continues to fuel the rural economic fire, bolstering farmland values, commodity prices and farm income. And given that the Fed shows no inclination to change its policy, recent rural economic trends will likely continue throughout 2013....More

Prior to signing any kind of development agreement, oil lease experts suggests landowners work to educate themselves on the subject, and be sure to communicate with others who’ve experienced development in their area....More