Farms.com Home   News

High prices demand better feed efficiency

While feed efficiency is always important, it becomes even more so when grain prices are high.

Tackling higher feed bills requires a multi-faceted game plan, says Justin Waggoner, Extension beef specialist at Kansas State University.

The goal should be finding the least expensive energy source while making sure cattle are getting the nutrients they need, he says.

“You always want to be looking for opportunities to lower your costs,” he says. “Don’t get locked in to the conventional approach only. Be careful to avoid that mindset.”

In the Midwest, grain co-products are readily available for many producers. Waggoner says using a co-product requires careful examination before making any ration change.

Click here to see more...

Trending Video

Cattle Markets - Mike Briggs

Video: Cattle Markets - Mike Briggs

Live cattle futures are still holding a significant discount to cash, which either needs to narrow, or cash will have to come down. Boxed beef is trending higher again this week and on the feeder side, we're seeing new contract highs continue to roll in. So, what does this all mean moving forward? We caught up with Mike Briggs at his feedyard near Seward to get his take.