March Beef Management Calendar March 2000

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March Beef Management Calendar

Livestock Update, March 2000

John B. Hall, Extension Animal Scientist, Beef, Virginia Tech

Spring Calving Herds

Move pregnant heifers and early calving cows to calving area about 2 weeks before due date
Continue calving
Check cows 3 to 4 times per day, heifers more often - assist early if needed
Keep calving area clean and well drained, move healthy pairs out to large pastures 3 days after calving
Ear tag and dehorn all calves at birth; castrate male calves in commercial herds
Give selenium and vitamin A & D injections to newborn calves
Feed cows extra energy after calving; some protein may be needed also
Keep high quality, high magnesium high selenium minerals available
Purchase estrous synchronization supplies; line up AI technician or AI supplies
Order fertilizer; start getting equipment ready
Last chance to frost seed clovers this spring (Early in month)

Fall calving herds

Remove bulls to bull pasture and check condition
Begin creep feeding or creep grazing calves if desired
Plan marketing strategy for calves
Begin feeding high magnesium minerals to prevent grass tetany
Make first selection of replacement heifers
Order fertilizer; start getting equipment ready
Last chance to frost seed clovers this spring (Early in month)

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