Here is a database of resources for individuals interested in producing cattle. The majority of resources focus on beef cattle and primarily on cow-calf production.
Please note that some practices, regulations, pests, or management needs will vary based on location and region. Should you need specific guidance for your area, please contact your local Cooperative Extension Agent for assistance.
Should you need resources a resource you do not see here, please let us know at rlstew2@uga.edu.
Breeds
“Selecting a Beef Breed“ University of Georgia Extension Short publication discussing selection criteria to consider when selecting a beef breed for production.
“Texas Adapted Genetic Strategies for Beef Cattle V:
Type and Breed Characteristics and Uses” Texas A&M Agrilife Extension
Provides a detailed look at genetic classifiers for beef cattle, types of beef cattle, and specific breed characteristics.
Housing, Handling, & Behavior
“Cattle Handling and Working Facilities” The Ohio State University Extension Discusses Beef Quality Assurance guidelines and how to design and implement handling facilities that are appropriate for cattle.
“Fences for the Farm” University of Georgia Extension Discusses a variety of types of fencing, what they are appropriate for, and how to plan and install a fencing system.
“Beef Cattle Housing and Equipment” University of Massachusetts Extension Shows examples of possible shelters for cattle as well as accessory needs including feed bunks and waterers.
“Beef Cattle Behavior and Handling” Mississippi State University Extension Talks about cattle physiology and behavior and it’s impact on handling procedures and safety.
Feeding & Nutrition
“Reducing Losses When Feeding Cattle” University of Missouri Extension Discusses strategies for feeding hay in order to minimize loss and wastage.
“Pumps and Watering Systems for Managed Beef Grazing” University of Missouri Extension In-depth look at considerations when designing and planning a watering system for cattle pastures.
“Grazing and Pasture Management for Cattle” University of Minnesota Extension Deep dive into pasture management, rotational grazing systems, and how to properly care for your pasture resources.
“Feedstuffs for Beef Cattle” Mississippi State University Extension Discusses options for feeding cattle and how to evaluate ingredient quality.
“Body Condition Scoring Beef Cattle” University of Georgia Extension Do your cattle weigh what they should? This publication teaches you how to evaluate body condition score on cattle.
“Mineral Supplements for Beef Cattle” University of Georgia Extension Emphasizes the importance of proper mineral supplementation for beef cattle in all stages of life.
Health Management
“Internal Parasite Control of Beef Cattle” University of Georgia Extension Discusses clinical signs and symptoms of internal parasites in cattle and introduces treatment options and thresholds.
“Beef Cattle Health” University of Tennessee In-depth hub for beef health topics such as dehorning, grass tetany, parasites, and viral diseases.
“External Parasites of Beef Cattle” University of Florida/IFAS Extension Introduces most of the common external parasites present in beef cattle.
“Designing Preventative Health Management Programs for Cattle” University of Wisconsin-Madison Extension In-depth look at a progressive health management plan from birth to maturity and for breeding stock.
Reproduction
“Reproductive Management of Commercial Beef Cows” University of Georgia Extension Comprehensive management guide for improved reproduction in a herd including health, controlling calving seasons, and supplementation.
“Estrous Synchronization for Beef Cattle” University of Georgia Extension Introduces methods of synchronizing beef cattle to introduce a controlled calving window.
“Bull Buyer’s Guide” University of Georgia Extension Discusses key factors to purchasing a bull for your herd from health to reproductive soundness.
“How to Improve Your Percent Calf Crop” University of Georgia Extension Increasing percent calf crop is an excellent way of improving the economics on a small farm. Learn some simple ways to improve it here.
Economics
“Profitable Cattle Marketing for the Cow-Calf Producer” University of Georgia Extension Provides information on how to market cattle appropriately and turn a better profit as a small producer.
“Reproduction’s Impact on Beef Cattle Herd Profitability” University of Tennessee Extension Evaluates the impact of herd reproduction on profitability. Includes sample budgets.
“Beef Budgets” North Carolina State University Extension Provides up-to-date budgets for you to “plug and chug” to estimate the profitability of your herd.
“Calculating the Cost of Beef Production” PennState Extension Discusses the major expenses and costs associated with producing beef cattle.