Feeding and maintaining the cowherd during the winter months is one of the major expenses on cow-calf farms. Cooperators kept records of herd feeding and management during the winter months. In both years, the feed (both stored feeds and forage or crop residues) was sufficient to maintain cow weight and condition. Cattle weights were used to estimate feed requirements. The weather impacted the Schmidts’ abilities to stockpile forage. Lower forage prices and grazing crop residues greatly reduced the feed costs in year 2. Finding ways to extend the grazing season are extremely valuable.
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