2008 Beef Management Tips

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Beef Management Tips

Livestock Update, February 2008

Dr. John B. Hall, Extension Beef Specialist, VA Tech

February Beef Management Calendar

Spring Calving Herds

Have all calving supplies on hand and review calving assistance procedures
Move pregnant heifers and early calving cows to calving area about 2 weeks before due date
Begin calving late in month (some herds)
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
Keep late pregnant cows gaining 1.0 lbs per day
Pregnant heifers and 3 yr olds should gain 2.0-2.5 lbs per day
Keep high quality, high magnesium minerals available
Vaccinate cows against scours if it has been a problem
Attend performance tested bull sale and/or order AI semen
Frost seed clovers (mid to late in the month)
Attend Virginia Cattlemen’s Meeting in Roanoke

Fall Calving Herds

End breeding early in the month
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
Continue to check calves closely for health problems
Inventory winter feed supplies
Frost seed clovers (mid to late in the month)
Attend Virginia Cattlemen’s Meeting in Roanoke

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