When Retaining Replacement Heifers - Keep Cost In Mind

There are a lot of advantages for producers rebuilding their mama cow herd, to retain replacement heifers and keep them back for their own operation. However, before making the decision to do this, Beef Cattle Specialist Dr. Bob Weaber, wants producers to understand the costs associated with it.

“The things we need to think about are, one: are our heifers worth more than suitable ones we could buy and make a swap,” Weaber said. “The other bits are really centered around; how do I get a weaned heifer calf to her first calf.”

The only costs really associated with this, Weaber says, is frankly time and feed - plus some potential interest costs if an operating note is in use. Also, he says to arrive at a well-rounded figure, producers should apply a breeding cost, whether that represents an artificial insemination (AI) program or the cost of providing a bull. He reminds producers also to consider budgeting for inevitable culling to compensate for heifers that don’t breed or die, as they move forward in planning.

Once all these factors have been considered, he says the main focus should concentrate on feeding costs. Most importantly though - Dr. Weaber says before you even begin bouncing the idea to retain heifers around, review your current financial situation and pending obligations and determine whether or not you can afford to retain heifers. He says with cow costs still averaging between$700 and $800, some producers may need to sell off more heifers to make ends meet.

Listen to Dr. Bob Weaber and Radio Oklahoma Network’s Ron Hays discuss the expenses associated with retaining replacement heifers on today's Beef Buzz.

The Beef Buzz is a regular feature heard on radio stations around the region on the Radio Oklahoma Network and is a regular audio feature found on this website as well. Click on the LISTEN BAR below for today's show and check out our archives for older Beef Buzz shows covering the gamut of the beef cattle industry today.

Source:oklahomafarmreport.com