The summer months do not bring much off time for beef cattle producers. From preparing for winter forage to managing grazing, beef cattle producers can benefit from trying new strategies.
When cutting hay in the summer, producers should prepare to have one to one and a half tons of hay per cow to be stored until winter use. This hay should be cut nearly once a month and should be tested to be able to plan ahead for the winter.
At this time of the year most cows should be bred, so bulls can be removed by around June 20th for early spring calving.
In preparation for weaned calves, make sure fences and pens are up and sturdy. Be prepared to deworm calves at weaning and cull your open and poor cows soon after weaning. Any late calves need to be dehorned, vaccinated and castrated.
Hot weather will make it crucial to start fly control measures and ensure proper shade can be found in pastures.
Water contamination can be fatal without proper herd management. To prevent contamination, fence off ponds or pump the water to troughs. It will also be important to regularly check ponds and wells used in the water supply for algal blooms and minerals.
For more information, click here for the UGA Extension Beef Management Calendar.
