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| I'm having a tough time understanding his thoughts as well Doug61. This year because of drought we only contracted 50% of calves early. I was very afraid of making base weight. We monitored them and pull light calves early and weaned. Was a good decision. We kept 100% more heifers than or normal replacements. Reason being, we bought more permits to increase herd by a 1/3 two years ago. It was unexpected change hit his, but took it.
I really wanted to keep 100% heifer crop, but fully well knowing a percentage wouldn't fit our criteria for replacements. We had worst year ever for forage. We have the genetics, but we kept a lot of 1st calf heifers and was lucky to be able to raise marketable calves. Going to preg check those 1st calvers on the 1st of the year. Im sure there is a few opens, as I've seen them bulling. Neighbors bull broke in and covered them. So likely will abort them, and keep to breed in spring.
Those heifers have proven themselves, hoping under 10%. Experts say not to keep them, however its worked for us. Flush them on feed, abort them and run again in spring. From our records it works for us. If open on second or third calf cycle they hit the road.
Prices have been great last two years, however we are getting pushed to sell land for delvopment and also going to lose other grazing to energy and mineral delvopment. So will be forced to buy other lands, which will require more cattle to fill. If my plan goes forth. We might not sell many heifers the same next year, will need everything for expansion.
I just wish they would leave us alone to ranch. But with delvopment hitting me in the middle of nowhere, I can see how the rest of country in trouble for grazing lands. Going to be an interesting ride. | |
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Brazilian beef - "Last Bastion for Cheap Beef Fades..."
