|
NW Iowa | I used to buy a couple potloads old cows out of MT every fall 25 yrs ago.
One thing to keep in mind is, unless they are in great shape(and they probably aren't)
the amount of groceries it will take you to keep them in shape
and gain lbs is a lot...
You can't just throw them out on stalks and think they will gain.
It takes more feed than a young cow.
It's not all gravy with gummers....
Edit- I'm not saying it doesn't work, because it can, i've done it.
I'll keep an old good cow till she's open.
I won't keep a poor do'er, bad bag, bad feet, bad temper.
So you will be getting some of those.
If she is in nice shape you will bid lb guys at $1.70 plus a $100 or so for bred.
Or they are thin and you give $1.25.
Calve them, wean at 60-90 days, fatten up the cow and lb her out.
If you are on stalks with 4-6" snow, below 20 degrees, and
they are walking for water, while having to dig for feed.
They burn calories. If you got 6-8% protein you are lucky at this point.
Better have some DDG and some baled stalks handy at least.
Easy here, 7 miles away and $160/ton, but some need it trucked in.
My $4100 feb bred 1150lb heifer starts to look appealing in the long run
A guy buying $5000 3 yr old, wants to turn them out and forget them.
This isn't his first rodeo, or he has money to start with.
Edited by Massey1155 12/9/2025 08:01
| |
|
It’s getting ridiculous
