Podcasts about Feedlot

Deals and Movement in the Grain Market A Look into the Weather Variety in Kansas Focus on Feedlot Data   00:01:05 – Deals and Movement in the Grain Market: Daniel O'Brien, K-State grain economist, kicks off the show as he talks about movement in futures and cash, more data from the WASDE report and the U.S. and China trade deal. Daniel on AgManager.info   00:12:05 – A Look into the Weather Variety in Kansas: K-State meteorologist Chip Redmond continues the show as he discusses the large differences in the weather for the past week and what we can be expecting for the unofficial start of summer.  Mesonet.ksu.edu   00:23:05  – Focus on Feedlot Data: Wrapping up the show is K-State Extension beef cattle specialist Justin Waggoner as he reviews the Focus on Feedlot data and what it shows for the cattle industry.  Focus on Feedlots Monthly Reports     Send comments, questions or requests for copies of past programs to ksrenews@ksu.edu.   Agriculture Today is a daily program featuring Kansas State University agricultural specialists and other experts examining ag issues facing Kansas and the nation. It is hosted by Shelby Varner and distributed to radio stations throughout Kansas and as a daily podcast.   K‑State Extension is a short name for the Kansas State University Cooperative Extension Service, a program designed to generate and distribute useful knowledge for the well‑being of Kansans. Supported by county, state, federal and private funds, the program has county Extension offices statewide. Its headquarters is on the K‑State campus in Manhattan. For more information, visit Extension.ksu.edu. K-State Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

In this episode of The Moos Room, Brad discusses spring pasture challenges in western Minnesota, including dry conditions, temperature swings, and slowed grass growth. With summer heat on the horizon, the focus shifts to heat stress in dairy cows and how precision technologies, especially internal bolus sensors, can help farmers identify problems earlier.Brad shares observations from cows monitored with Smaxtec boluses, including rumination, internal body temperature, and water intake data. He also reviews research from the University of Minnesota herd showing that rumination may start dropping at lower temperature-humidity index levels than traditional industry thresholds suggest. Conventional cows showed rumination declines around a THI of 64, while pasture-based organic cows showed declines closer to 58.The episode highlights why waiting for milk production losses may be too late when managing heat stress. Instead, rumination, body temperature, water intake, shade, cooling systems, and feeding strategies can all play a role in protecting cow comfort and performance before visible signs of heat stress appear.Questions, comments, scathing rebuttals? -> themoosroom@umn.edu or call 612-624-3610 and leave us a message!Linkedin -> The Moos RoomTwitter -> @UMNmoosroom and @UMNFarmSafetyFacebook -> @UMNDairyYouTube -> UMN Beef and Dairy and UMN Farm Safety and HealthInstagram -> @UMNWCROCDairyExtension WebsiteAgriAmerica Podcast Directory 

SDSU is set to host the Siouxland Feedlot Forum this June in Sioux City, Nebraska. NAFB News ServiceSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brad takes a closer look at FerAppease, a synthetic analog of the maternal bovine appeasing substance that is gaining attention in both the dairy and beef industries. He explains how the product is designed to reduce stress in cattle during events like breeding, weaning, dehorning, transportation, calving, and dry-off.The episode highlights recent research in lactating Holstein cows showing that applying FerAppease at the time of artificial insemination increased pregnancy per AI from 47.7% in control cows to 60.2% in treated cows. Brad also walks through the potential economics, estimating a strong return on investment when improved pregnancy rates are valued at the farm level.Brad then discusses a calf study looking at FerAppease use around disbudding. Treated calves showed signs of reduced stress, including lower cortisol measures, and had improved average daily gain shortly after disbudding. While more research is needed, Brad notes that FerAppease may be a useful non-antibiotic, non-hormonal tool for reducing stress and improving outcomes during key management events.Questions, comments, scathing rebuttals? -> themoosroom@umn.edu or call 612-624-3610 and leave us a message!Linkedin -> The Moos RoomTwitter -> @UMNmoosroom and @UMNFarmSafetyFacebook -> @UMNDairyYouTube -> UMN Beef and Dairy and UMN Farm Safety and HealthInstagram -> @UMNWCROCDairyExtension WebsiteAgriAmerica Podcast Directory 

Virtual fencing is gaining attention in livestock production, and this episode breaks down what dairy producers need to know before trying it. Brad explains how virtual fencing uses GPS-enabled collars or ear tags, audio cues, and electrical cues to manage grazing animals within digital boundaries. He also shares lessons from training heifers with virtual fence collars, including the adjustment period, the importance of using a physical fence during training, and how animals typically learn the system within about a week.The episode also compares several virtual fencing systems available to U.S. producers, including Vence, Gallagher, Halter, and Nofence. Brad walks through major considerations such as collar weight, cellular versus base station connectivity, battery life, subscription fees, and upfront costs. He also discusses how virtual fencing may compare financially with traditional physical fencing and why more research is needed to understand its fit in dairy grazing systems.Brad also previews upcoming virtual fencing work at the University of Minnesota West Central Research and Outreach Center, where multiple systems will be tested with dairy cattle to better understand labor needs, cost, practicality, and overall performance in real grazing conditions. Questions, comments, scathing rebuttals? -> themoosroom@umn.edu or call 612-624-3610 and leave us a message!Linkedin -> The Moos RoomTwitter -> @UMNmoosroom and @UMNFarmSafetyFacebook -> @UMNDairyYouTube -> UMN Beef and Dairy and UMN Farm Safety and HealthInstagram -> @UMNWCROCDairyExtension WebsiteAgriAmerica Podcast Directory 

AGROINDUSTRIA EN FOCO con EDUARDO BUSTOS y Gabriel Quáizel 02-05-2026 Entrevistas a: Maximiliano Moreno (Director Ejecutivo de Fundacion INAI) Fernando Storni (Presidente de la Camara Argentina de Feedlot)

Fernando Storni (Presidente de la Camara Argentina de Feedlot) Agroindustria En Foco

This episode highlights new research on Salmonella Dublin in dairy-beef systems and what it means for calf health and farm management. The disease is a major threat to young calves, causing severe illness and high mortality, while often spreading silently through carrier animals and contaminated environments. New PCR testing shows the pathogen is far more common than traditional methods suggest.Key risk factors include frequent introduction of new calves, mixing animals post-weaning, and human movement (boots, equipment) spreading contamination between areas.Bottom line: Salmonella Dublin isn't random—it reflects management. Strong biosecurity, better calf flow, delayed weaning, and improved monitoring are critical to reducing risk.Questions, comments, scathing rebuttals? -> themoosroom@umn.edu or call 612-624-3610 and leave us a message!Linkedin -> The Moos RoomTwitter -> @UMNmoosroom and @UMNFarmSafetyFacebook -> @UMNDairyYouTube -> UMN Beef and Dairy and UMN Farm Safety and HealthInstagram -> @UMNWCROCDairyExtension WebsiteAgriAmerica Podcast Directory 

Spring may be slow to arrive in Minnesota, but research season is heating up. In this episode of The Moos Room, Brad revisits a large Minnesota-based study exploring the true cost of health events in dairy cows—and why tracking cost, not just disease incidence, could transform genetic selection and farm profitability.Using data from thousands of Holstein cows across multiple herds, the team found that health costs are heavily concentrated in the first 30 days of lactation, when cows face metabolic stress from calving and high milk production. However, issues like lameness and mastitis continue to accumulate costs throughout the lactation, especially in older cows. In fact, total health costs more than double from first to later lactations, reflecting wear, immune fatigue, and management differences.A key takeaway: management determines cost, but genetics influence risk. While some high-cost conditions (like reproductive disorders) are difficult to improve genetically, others—such as mastitis and metabolic disease—show stronger heritability.The breakthrough insight is that total health cost itself is moderately heritable (~0.25)—much higher than traditional “sick vs. not sick” measures. This means selecting animals based on overall health cost could drive faster genetic progress than current methods.Brad also highlights important genetic and phenotypic relationships: Higher milk production is linked to increased health costs  Lower somatic cell count strongly reduces total health costs  Taller, more angular cows tend to have higher health costs  Shallower udders are associated with better health outcomes From a practical standpoint, the episode emphasizes: The need for consistent, detailed health and cost recording Moving beyond binary disease tracking to full economic impact Incorporating total health cost into sire selection decisionsBottom line: Selecting for lower total health cost can improve profitability, extend cow longevity, and enhance animal welfare—potentially saving tens of thousands of dollars at the herd level in just one generation.Questions, comments, scathing rebuttals? -> themoosroom@umn.edu or call 612-624-3610 and leave us a message!Linkedin -> The Moos RoomTwitter -> @UMNmoosroom and @UMNFarmSafetyFacebook -> @UMNDairyYouTube -> UMN Beef and Dairy and UMN Farm Safety and HealthInstagram -> @UMNWCROCDairyExtension WebsiteAgriAmerica Podcast Directory 

This episode of The Moos Room dives into new research on agrivoltaics—specifically how forages perform when grown under solar panels in grazing systems. Brad shares results from a recent study evaluating multiple grass and legume species across different solar array designs compared to a traditional pasture.Overall, forage production depended heavily on species and shade level. Cool-season grasses like meadow fescue and orchardgrass performed well under solar panels, sometimes even producing more biomass than in open pasture. In contrast, warm-season species like sorghum-sudangrass struggled under shaded conditions. Legumes such as red clover maintained strong performance and contributed to improved forage quality.One of the biggest takeaways was that while heavier shade can reduce total biomass, it often improves forage quality. Grasses grown under solar panels showed higher crude protein and greater fiber digestibility, especially in more shaded systems. This suggests agrivoltaic systems can still produce high-quality feed, even when yield is slightly reduced.The episode highlights that selecting the right species—particularly shade-tolerant cool-season grasses and legume mixtures—is key to success in grazing-based solar systems. Ultimately, agrivoltaics offers a promising opportunity to combine livestock production with renewable energy, providing both high-quality forage and an additional revenue stream for farmers.Agrivoltaic arrays and effects of forage biomass and nutritive value of grasses and legumes for grazing dairy cattlehttps://www.jdscommun.org/article/S2666-9102(26)00073-6/fulltextAgrivoltaics Webinar Cattle and Kilowatts 4/14Sponsored by University of Minnesota ExtensionOur first webinar is April 14th, 2026 5pm CT.Register for the zoom link: z.umn.edu/cattlekilowattsCattle and kilowatts webinar: Real-world solar grazing in practiceJoin the University of Minnesota Extension for an in-depth webinar featuring pioneers of cattle solar grazing. This session moves beyond theory and into the pasture, focusing on the practical management, infrastructure, and animal welfare considerations of running cattle on solar sites. Guest speakers include Will Harris and Dale Caldwell (White Oak Pastures) leaders in regenerative agriculture who have integrated solar grazing into their multi-species operation in Bluffton, Georgia. Josh Bennett (HUWA Enterprises), an agrimation expert at the forefront of cattle-ready solar design will also join the discussion.Questions, comments, scathing rebuttals? -> themoosroom@umn.edu or call 612-624-3610 and leave us a message!Linkedin -> The Moos RoomTwitter -> @UMNmoosroom and @UMNFarmSafetyFacebook -> @UMNDairyYouTube -> UMN Beef and Dairy and UMN Farm Safety and HealthInstagram -> @UMNWCROCDairyExtension WebsiteAgriAmerica Podcast Directory 

 In this episode of The Moos Room, Brad shares insights from a recent study at the University of Minnesota Morris dairy focused on reducing mastitis and improving behavior in first-lactation heifers. The research tested a simple, low-labor strategy: bringing heifers into the parlor once per week for three weeks before calving, gently acclimating them, and applying a 1% iodine teat dip. Results showed that trained heifers were calmer, easier to milk, and significantly less likely to kick during milking, improving both animal welfare and milker safety. While overall clinical mastitis rates did not differ, the treatment notably reduced Staphylococcus aureus infections, with untrained heifers having five times greater odds of infection shortly after calving. The episode highlights how small, proactive management steps before calving can break the cycle of stress, poor behavior, and disease—offering a practical approach to improving transition success in dairy heifers. Questions, comments, scathing rebuttals? -> themoosroom@umn.edu or call 612-624-3610 and leave us a message!Linkedin -> The Moos RoomTwitter -> @UMNmoosroom and @UMNFarmSafetyFacebook -> @UMNDairyYouTube -> UMN Beef and Dairy and UMN Farm Safety and HealthInstagram -> @UMNWCROCDairyExtension WebsiteAgriAmerica Podcast Directory 

 Spring calving is underway in Minnesota, and with it comes renewed focus on the booming beef-on-dairy market. In this episode, Brad dives into current calf prices—highlighting the strong premium for beef-cross calves—and breaks down new research comparing Holstein and beef × dairy calves under the same management. Across studies from Canada and Brazil, crossbred calves consistently showed advantages: lower rates of diarrhea, fewer treatment interventions, improved starter intake, and greater feed efficiency. While respiratory disease incidence was similar, crossbreds recovered faster and required fewer treatments. By 84 days, crossbred calves were heavier and more efficient to raise, reinforcing long-standing evidence that heterosis improves calf performance. The takeaway is clear: beef-on-dairy calves not only bring strong market value but also demonstrate biological and economic advantages during the pre-weaning phase—making them an increasingly attractive strategy for dairy producers navigating volatile milk markets. Questions, comments, scathing rebuttals? -> themoosroom@umn.edu or call 612-624-3610 and leave us a message!Linkedin -> The Moos RoomTwitter -> @UMNmoosroom and @UMNFarmSafetyFacebook -> @UMNDairyYouTube -> UMN Beef and Dairy and UMN Farm Safety and HealthInstagram -> @UMNWCROCDairyExtension WebsiteAgriAmerica Podcast Directory 

It's The Ranch It Up Radio Show! Join Jeff Tigger Erhardt, Rebecca Wanner AKA BEC and their crew as they dive into breeding bull development. Plus, updates on Nebraska Fire Relief, the increasing price of meat, and Florida's ban on lab grown meat.  Hear the market recaps, the ranch channel sales calendar and lot's more all wrapped into this brand-new episode of The Ranch It Up Radio Show. Be sure to subscribe on your favorite podcasting app or on the Ranch It Up Radio Show YouTube Channel. Season 6, EPISODE 282 Breeding Bull Development at The CK Bar Ranch Welcome to CK Bar Ranch — your trusted source for high-quality Simmental and SimAngus bulls. Based in Kadoka, South Dakota, we focus on raising durable, high-performance cattle that help producers improve herd efficiency and profitability. At CK Bar Ranch, customer success comes first. Our bulls are bred for longevity, adaptability, and easy calving, while delivering strong growth and real-world performance. Whether you're buying at our annual sale, the Black Hills Stock Show, or through private treaty, we provide genetics tailored to your operation. We specialize in seedstock designed for commercial cattlemen, with an emphasis on maternal strength, growth, and carcass quality. Raised on native grass in the rugged Badlands, our cattle are built to perform in a wide range of environments across the U.S. and Canada. With more than 40 years of experience, owners Kelly Erickson and Amy Stilwell have built a reputation for producing reliable, ranch-ready cattle that deliver consistent results. We also make buying simple with free bull boarding until breeding season and free delivery to nearby states. Sale Details: Friday, April 3, 2026 2:00 PM MST St. Onge Livestock, St. Onge, South Dakota Online bidding available through DVAuction For more information, contact Kelly Erickson at 701-898-1583. Cattle Industry News Nebraska Fire Relief After more than 800,000 acres have burned in Nebraska wildfires, livestock producers are now searching for places to graze their animals. The Nebraska Cattlemen's Association says there are two main options — both showing how neighbors are stepping up to help. One option is feeding cattle hay. Donations are arriving by the truckload, but hay can still be expensive. The second option is a free online tool called the Nebraska Grazing Exchange. It connects ranchers who need land with farmers who have pasture available. People who want to help can sign up, list what they can offer, and connect directly with ranchers in need. Once a match is made, the next step is moving the animals to that land. Laura Field, Executive Vice President of Nebraska Cattlemen, says support has been overwhelming. She says tough times like this bring out the best in the agriculture community. Field says some ranchers have lost up to 70 or 80 percent of their summer grazing land, and may need to move cattle to entirely different regions — even out of state. But she says help is coming from all directions — across the country. Field also says she doesn't expect long-term economic damage. She says Nebraska's beef industry is strong and resilient, and will weather this challenge. While moving cattle — also known as rotational grazing — isn't new, the situation right now is complicated. Field says burned areas are filled with damaged equipment like fencing, water systems, and other infrastructure. She says groups are working with state and federal partners to match needs with resources and get supplies where they're needed most. As for concerns about ranchers leaving the state, Field says the grass will grow back — and the cattle will return. The Nebraska Department of Agriculture adds that grazing can actually help prevent future wildfires by reducing dry plant material. Nebraska Grazing Exchange   References: https://www.klkntv.com/online-tool-connects-farmers-with-available-land-to-cattle-ranchers-in-need-of-grazing-area-after-wildfires/   Global Meat Trade & Demand A series of market-moving events, including a strike at a JBS beef plant, geopolitical tensions involving Iran, shifting oil prices and tariff uncertainty, have yet to derail strong beef demand, as wholesale prices continued to climb, according to analysis by Drovers and Sterling Marketing Profit Tracker. Market fundamentals have shifted in recent weeks. Lower fed cattle prices combined with higher boxed beef values improved packer margins while pressuring feedlots. For the week ending March 14, packer margins were estimated at a loss of $54.17 per head, narrowing from deeper losses in prior weeks. The beef cutout rose to $390.66 per cwt. Feedlot margins turned negative, estimated at a loss of $48.79 per head. Elevated breakevens continue to  pressure feedlots despite strong demand. Hamburger prices on restaurant menus are 14% higher in the last three years, but beef production costs jumped 32% since January 2023, according to a new report from food industry intelligence firm,  Datassential. Burger inflation is roughly in line with broader restaurant prices, despite the effects of chronically tight beef supplies. Food away from home — which approximates all food service including dine-in, takeout and delivery — rose 4% in 2025 and is 13% higher since January 2023, according to the federal government's Consumer Price Index. The Datassential report pointed out that restaurant pricing strategy can keep prices on popular items in check to avoid hurting turnover, while causing cost burdens to be spread throughout the operation. Burgers in particular are a source of traffic, especially in the quick-service segment. References: https://meatingplace.com/wholesale-beef-prices-rise-despite-market-disruptions-demand-remains-strong/ https://meatingplace.com/mcflation-beef-costs-outstripping-burger-menu-prices/?utm_source=omeda&utm_medium=email&utm_cid=1103020073&utm_campaign=MTGMCD260319017&utm_date=20260320-0300 Packer Consolidation Under Washington Crosshairs Efforts to scrutinize consolidation in the U.S. meat industry are gaining new momentum in Washington, as lawmakers from both parties increasingly target large packers amid persistently high beef prices. In recent months, Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer has floated legislation aimed at restructuring the industry, while President Donald Trump has ordered the Department of Justice to investigate major beef packers for potential antitrust violations. The unusual bipartisan convergence reflects mounting political pressure to address food affordability, even as economists and industry leaders say the fundamental driver of high beef prices lies elsewhere. The renewed focus on meatpacker consolidation follows years of debate over the market dominance of the so-called “Big Four” beef packers (JBS, Tyson Foods, Cargill and National Beef), which together handle roughly 80% of U.S. cattle slaughter. Trump last fall directed the DOJ to investigate whether large packers engaged in “Illicit Collusion, Price Fixing, and Price Manipulation,” while several Republican lawmakers voiced support for stronger antitrust enforcement. At the same time, Schumer and other Democrats are preparing legislation that would attempt to curb consolidation across the food system, including potentially forcing meat companies to focus on a single protein.   Reference: https://meatingplace.com/in-depth-meatpacker-consolidation-back-in-washingtons-crosshairs/?utm_source=omeda&utm_medium=email&utm_cid=1103020073&utm_campaign=MTGMCD260320014&utm_date=20260321-0630   Florida Ban On Lab-Grown Meat Update Florida's ban on cultivated meat will stay in place after a federal appeals court upheld the law in a ruling released Monday. The case was brought by Upside Foods, a California company that produces lab-grown chicken, after the law took effect in July of 2024. A three-judge panel on the 11th Circuit Court of Appeals ruled the ban does not conflict with federal laws regulating traditional poultry. The court said the state law doesn't control how the product is made — only whether it can be sold — meaning federal law does not override it. The decision also upholds an earlier ruling from a federal district court that dismissed the case. Florida Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson, who supported the law, called the ruling a win for farmers and consumers. Governor Ron DeSantis, who signed the bill, has also defended the measure, saying it protects Florida agriculture from what he calls “lab-grown alternatives.” Florida was the first state to pass a ban on cultivated meat. Since then, several others — including Alabama, Indiana, Mississippi, Montana, Nebraska, and Texas — have followed. The bans come as the lab-grown meat industry is still in its early stages. The Food and Drug Administration first approved cultivated meat for sale in 2022. Supporters of the industry argue these state laws could slow innovation, cost jobs, and limit competition. It's not yet clear if Upside Foods plans to appeal the ruling. Reference: https://www.wlrn.org/food-and-agriculture/2026-03-24/appeals-court-upholds-floridas-ban-on-lab-grown-meat Featured Experts in the Cattle Industry Kelly Erickson - CK Bar Ranch https://www.ckbarranch.com/ Follow On Facebook: @RanchCKBar Kirk Donsbach – Financial Analyst at StoneX https://www.stonex.com/ Follow on Facebook: @StoneXGroupInc Shaye Wanner – Host of Casual Cattle Conversation https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/ Follow on Facebook: @cattleconvos Contact Us with Questions or Concerns Have questions or feedback? Feel free to reach out via: Call/Text: 707-RANCH20 or 707-726-2420 Email: RanchItUpShow@gmail.com Follow us: Facebook/Instagram: @RanchItUpShow YouTube: Subscribe to Ranch It Up Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/RanchItUp Catch all episodes of the Ranch It Up Podcast available on all major podcasting platforms. Discover the Heart of Rural America with Tigger & BEC Ranching, farming, and the Western lifestyle are at the heart of everything we do. Tigger & BEC bring you exclusive insights from the world of working ranches, cattle farming, and sustainable beef production. Learn more about Jeff 'Tigger' Erhardt & Rebecca Wanner (BEC) and their mission to promote the Western way of life at Tigger and BEC. https://tiggerandbec.com/ Industry References, Partners and Resources For additional information on industry trends, products, and services, check out these trusted resources: Allied Genetic Resources: https://alliedgeneticresources.com/ American Gelbvieh Association: https://gelbvieh.org/ Axiota Animal Health: https://axiota.com/multimin-campaign-landing-page/ Imogene Ingredients: https://www.imogeneingredients.com/ Jorgensen Land & Cattle: https://jorgensenfarms.com/#/?ranchchannel=view Medora Boot: https://medoraboot.com/ RFD-TV: https://www.rfdtv.com/ Rural Radio Network: https://www.ruralradio147.com/ Superior Livestock Auctions: https://superiorlivestock.com/ Transova Genetics: https://transova.com/ Westway Feed Products: https://westwayfeed.com/ Wrangler: https://www.wrangler.com/ Wulf Cattle: https://www.wulfcattle.com/

*Feedlot inventories remain steady.   *HPAI is still affecting poultry flocks across America.  *The Texas Wheat Producers Board launched “Fields of Learning.” *The Texas dairy industry has seen massive growth over the past few years.  *The National Peanut Board is funding allergy research.*Lawmakers are asking for transparency in fertilizer prices.  *Water woes continue in South Texas.  *The gestation length is cattle is supposed to be 283 days, but that isn't always the case.

On this spring episode of The Moos Room, Brad dives into the seasonal return of flies and shares results from a recent horn fly vaccine study conducted at the University of Minnesota's WCROC. Horn flies—common in pasture-based systems—cause significant irritation, blood loss, and production losses in cattle, and their rapid life cycle makes them difficult to control, especially with increasing insecticide resistance.The study evaluated a Medgene horn fly vaccine designed to disrupt the fly's ability to take a blood meal, ultimately reducing reproduction. Researchers vaccinated about half of the cows and heifers across organic (pasture-based) and conventional (dry lot) systems and tracked fly populations throughout the summer. While no differences were observed for face flies or stable flies—as expected—the vaccine showed promising results for horn flies. There was little effect in conventional cows, but in pasture-based animals, especially heifers, vaccinated groups experienced a consistent 30–40% reduction in horn fly numbers compared to controls.Overall, the findings suggest that horn fly vaccination could be a valuable new tool—particularly for grazing and organic dairy systems—to help manage fly pressure and improve animal well-being over time.Questions, comments, scathing rebuttals? -> themoosroom@umn.edu or call 612-624-3610 and leave us a message!Linkedin -> The Moos RoomTwitter -> @UMNmoosroom and @UMNFarmSafetyFacebook -> @UMNDairyYouTube -> UMN Beef and Dairy and UMN Farm Safety and HealthInstagram -> @UMNWCROCDairyExtension WebsiteAgriAmerica Podcast Directory 

Spring planting has been very dry.   Sheep and goat prices are strong right now.  There is a false rumor circulating about a disease in Texas feedlots. Feedlot margins are getting tighter.  New treatments have been approved for use on screwworms.  Trade talks have started on the U.S. Mexico Canada trade agreement.  Wheat acreage is holding steady in Texas this year.Your behavior around the cattle chute can make a difference when working cattle.  

Brad shares a spring dairy update and breaks down newly released national performance metrics from the Council on Dairy Cattle Breeding, offering a snapshot of what the U.S. dairy herd looks like today. He also touches on a major industry headline—Zoetis' planned acquisition of Neogen's animal genomics business—and what that could mean for dairy genetics going forward.A big part of the episode focuses on the red-hot calf market, especially for beef-on-dairy crosses. Brad highlights eye-popping prices from Minnesota sale barns, where Holstein bull calves and beef-cross calves are bringing in far more than producers would have expected just a few years ago. He reflects on how dramatically the economics of beef-on-dairy have changed and what that could mean for breeding decisions on dairies this year.The second half of the episode dives into the new national herd data, including milk production, components, somatic cell counts, herd size, and breed distribution across the country. Brad walks through where Holsteins, Jerseys, crossbreds, Brown Swiss, Guernseys, Ayrshires, and Milking Shorthorns stand today, and which states are leading in cow numbers and herd size. It's a practical, numbers-driven look at dairy trends in the U.S. and a useful update for anyone interested in genetics, herd demographics, and where the industry is heading.Questions, comments, scathing rebuttals? -> themoosroom@umn.edu or call 612-624-3610 and leave us a message!Linkedin -> The Moos RoomTwitter -> @UMNmoosroom and @UMNFarmSafetyFacebook -> @UMNDairyYouTube -> UMN Beef and Dairy and UMN Farm Safety and HealthInstagram -> @UMNWCROCDairyExtension WebsiteAgriAmerica Podcast Directory 

Do you know where your food comes from? Most of us buy and consume food every single day without understanding who grew it, how it was raised, or what the labels actually mean. What if the fear driving your grocery store decisions is based more on marketing than reality?On this episode of Salad With a Side of Fries, Jenn Trepeck welcomes fifth-generation dairy farmer and environmental scientist Tara Vander Dussen of Discover Ag Podcast and Discover Ag TV for a grounded, no-nonsense conversation about the food system, family farms, organic versus conventional choices, and how consumers can make smarter decisions without the overwhelm. From antibiotic use in dairy farming to the truth about grass-fed beef, water recycling on modern farms, and the impact of imports and tariffs on local agriculture, this episode reframes the conversation and replaces fear with facts.What You Will Learn in This Episode:✅ How the food system is divided between agriculture and big food, and why understanding that distinction helps you shop smarter and reduce unnecessary food fear✅ What the organic label actually means as a farming practice, and how conventional dairy farming maintains strict quality and safety standards that often go unrecognized✅ Why most cattle in the United States spend the majority of their lives on pasture, and what the real difference between grass-fed and grass-finished beef means for your plate✅ How sustainable farming practices like water recycling, on-site veterinarians, and cattle nutritionists reflect a level of animal care and environmental responsibility that rarely makes it into the public conversationThe Salad With a Side of Fries podcast, hosted by Jenn Trepeck, explores real-life wellness and weight-loss topics, debunking myths, misinformation, and flawed science surrounding nutrition and the food industry. Let's dive into wellness and weight loss for real life, including drinking, eating out, and skipping the grocery store.TIMESTAMPS:00:00 Breaking down the differences between agriculture and the food industry06:17 Understanding pesticides, glyphosate, and bio-engineered crops as tools in the farmer's toolbox09:13 Why food labels shifted from consumer information to marketing, and how to shop by personal values14:29 The truth about factory farms versus family farms and why 98 percent of dairies are family owned19:10 Conventional dairy quality: antibiotic protocols, testing standards, and why milk is one of the most tested products in the food supply chain25:45 How animal welfare and farm transparency have improved, and the water recycling system on a dairy farm is explained step by step29:29 Grass-fed versus grain-fed beef unpacked and why most cattle spend two-thirds of their lives on pasture36:42 How tariffs and global markets affect dairy farming prices and why grocery store milk prices can mislead38:57 The complicated relationship between consumer demand, imports, exports, and the modern food supplyKEY TAKEAWAYS:

Brad explores a recent study comparing two common calf-feeding methods: open buckets and nipple buckets. While most U.S. dairies rely on open buckets because they allow calves to drink quickly and reduce chore time, the research looked at how these systems affect calf growth, digestion, and behavior.The study followed individually housed calves fed six liters of milk per day until weaning at eight weeks. Calves fed with open buckets finished their milk much faster, often in under two minutes, while nipple-fed calves took about five minutes because the system mimics natural suckling. Despite the difference in drinking speed, both groups had similar growth rates and physical development.However, behavior and digestion told a more interesting story. Calves fed with open buckets consumed more starter grain and spent more time ruminating, but they also showed more non-nutritive oral behaviors like sucking on pen fixtures or other calves—likely because their natural suckling drive wasn't satisfied. Nipple-fed calves showed fewer of these behaviors, had slightly firmer feces, and exhibited metabolic signals suggesting improved digestion.Brad breaks down the trade-offs for dairy producers: open buckets offer efficiency and faster feeding, while nipple buckets may better support calf welfare and natural behavior. The episode highlights how feeding systems can influence calf behavior, digestion, and management decisions on dairy farms.Questions, comments, scathing rebuttals? -> themoosroom@umn.edu or call 612-624-3610 and leave us a message!Linkedin -> The Moos RoomTwitter -> @UMNmoosroom and @UMNFarmSafetyFacebook -> @UMNDairyYouTube -> UMN Beef and Dairy and UMN Farm Safety and HealthInstagram -> @UMNWCROCDairyExtension WebsiteAgriAmerica Podcast Directory 

 Brad shares results from a large national research project examining somatic cell count (SCC) and mastitis risk in U.S. organic dairy herds, using more than 2 million DHI test-day records from 430 farms across 31 states. The discussion highlights how SCC is influenced by multiple factors, including cow age, stage of lactation, milk production, breed, season, region, and herd size. Older cows, early-lactation animals, and lower-producing cows were most likely to have elevated SCC, while heat stress—especially during summer months—and larger herd size significantly increased risk. Because organic systems cannot rely on antibiotics, Brad emphasizes prevention strategies such as improved fresh-cow management, heat abatement, careful monitoring of chronic cows, and strong milking hygiene as key tools for controlling mastitis and maintaining milk quality. Questions, comments, scathing rebuttals? -> themoosroom@umn.edu or call 612-624-3610 and leave us a message!Linkedin -> The Moos RoomTwitter -> @UMNmoosroom and @UMNFarmSafetyFacebook -> @UMNDairyYouTube -> UMN Beef and Dairy and UMN Farm Safety and HealthInstagram -> @UMNWCROCDairyExtension WebsiteAgriAmerica Podcast Directory 

It's the Ranch It Up Radio Show Herd It Here Weekly Report!  A 3-minute look at cattle markets, reports, news info, or anything that has to do with those of us who live at the end of dirt roads.  Join Jeff 'Tigger' Erhardt, the Boss Lady Rebecca Wanner aka 'BEC' by subscribing on your favorite podcasting app or on the Ranch It Up Radio Show YouTube Channel. EPISODE 122 DETAILS Smaller Inventories Of Cattle On Feed According to Derrell Peel, Extension Livestock Marketing Specialist and Agricultural Economist with Oklahoma State University, the latest United States Department of Agriculture Cattle on Feed report placed feedlot inventories at 11.505 million head as of February 1. That total is 1.8 percent below year-ago levels and marks the fifteenth straight month of year-over-year declines. January placements fell 4.7 percent compared to last year, while marketings were down 13.0 percent, likely due in part to a winter storm late in the month that pushed some marketings into February. Overall, the report came in largely as expected and offered no significant surprises to the market. Peel also emphasized the structure of the cattle feeding sector. Of the nation's 26,082 feedlots, approximately 24,000 have capacities under 1,000 head. While these smaller operations make up 92 percent of all feedlots, they accounted for only 12.9 percent of total marketings in 2025, averaging fewer than 126 head sold per feedlot. Meanwhile, the 2,082 feedlots with capacities exceeding 1,000 head were responsible for 87.1 percent of the 23.483 million head marketed. Among them, just 7.1 percent — those with more than 32,000 head capacity — marketed 58.8 percent of fed cattle in 2025. In fact, the 82 largest feedlots, each with capacity above 50,000 head, marketed 8.39 million head combined, averaging more than 102,000 head per operation for the year. Reference:  https://www.nationalbeefwire.com/u-s-cattle-report Upcoming Feeder Cattle, Bull & Cow Sales On RanchChannel.Com Lots of feeder cattle, steers & heifers, bulls, and cow sales coming up on the RanchChannel.Com sale calendar.  Check out the full line up HERE. SPONSORS Jorgensen Land & Cattle https://jorgensenfarms.com/ @JorLandCat Ranch Channel https://ranchchannel.com/ @RanchChannel Questions & Concerns From The Field? Call or Text your questions, or comments to 707-RANCH20 or 707-726-2420 Or email RanchItUpShow@gmail.com FOLLOW Facebook/Instagram: @RanchItUpShow SUBSCRIBE to the Ranch It Up YouTube Channel: @ranchitup Website: RanchItUpShow.com https://ranchitupshow.com/ The Ranch It Up Podcast is available on ALL podcasting apps. https://ranchitup.podbean.com/ Rural America is center-stage on this outfit. AND how is that? Because of Tigger & BEC... Live This Western Lifestyle. Tigger & BEC represent the Working Ranch world by providing the cowboys, cowgirls, beef cattle producers & successful farmers the knowledge and education needed to bring high-quality beef & meat to your table for dinner. Learn more about Jeff 'Tigger' Erhardt & Rebecca Wanner aka BEC here: TiggerandBEC.com https://tiggerandbec.com/    

In this solo episode, Brad shares a few recent herd-health case studies from his dairy, highlighting the value of diagnostics and transparency.He walks through two calf losses—one at 60 days old and another at 9 months. Both animals had been treated for common issues but continued to decline. Necropsies revealed severe heart abnormalities in each case (thin, underdeveloped ventricles), pointing toward possible genetic or nutritional causes. The takeaway: without a necropsy, these would have remained unexplained losses.Brad also discusses a recent abortion in a dry cow. Diagnostic testing ruled out BVD and IBR and identified Citrobacter sp., an environmental organism found in manure, soil, and bedding that can contribute to abortions. He suspects environmental exposure in wintered dry cows may have played a role.Overall, the episode emphasizes investigating unexpected losses, using lab diagnostics, and learning from on-farm challenges as spring calving approaches.Questions, comments, scathing rebuttals? -> themoosroom@umn.edu or call 612-624-3610 and leave us a message!Linkedin -> The Moos RoomTwitter -> @UMNmoosroom and @UMNFarmSafetyFacebook -> @UMNDairyYouTube -> UMN Beef and Dairy and UMN Farm Safety and HealthInstagram -> @UMNWCROCDairyExtension WebsiteAgriAmerica Podcast Directory 

Emily and Brad re-record this episode of The Moos Room after a technical glitch wiped out Emily's audio—and dive into a big question: What does the dairy cow of the future look like?Inspired by a recent Journal of Dairy Science paper, they move beyond the classic Holstein vs. Jersey debate to discuss a more balanced vision. Instead of selecting for maximum milk at all costs, the future cow will prioritize resilience, fertility, longevity, feed efficiency, and environmental sustainability.They explore how genomics must be paired with real-world performance data (phenotypes), how precision technologies and robots are shaping breeding goals, and why moderate size and genetic diversity matter. From methane efficiency to beef-on-dairy and even gene editing, the episode highlights how breeding decisions today are shaping a smarter, more sustainable cow for tomorrow.Questions, comments, scathing rebuttals? -> themoosroom@umn.edu or call 612-624-3610 and leave us a message!Linkedin -> The Moos RoomTwitter -> @UMNmoosroom and @UMNFarmSafetyFacebook -> @UMNDairyYouTube -> UMN Beef and Dairy and UMN Farm Safety and HealthInstagram -> @UMNWCROCDairyExtension WebsiteAgriAmerica Podcast Directory 

Joe's Premium Subscription: www.standardgrain.comGrain Markets and Other Stuff Links —Apple PodcastsSpotifyTikTokYouTubeFutures and options trading involves risk of loss and is not suitable for everyone.

Calf prices are making headlines, and in this episode Emily and Brad are joined by UMN Extension beef educator Melissa Runck to talk through what today's hot beef and beef-on-dairy markets mean for producers.They discuss why newborn beef-cross calves are bringing record prices, how that cash can help dairy farms when milk prices are low, and what the latest Cattle on Feed report tells us about declining inventories and producers' reluctance to keep heifers as replacements. The group then dives into beef-on-dairy sire selection, emphasizing realistic goals over the search for a “perfect” bull, the importance of calving ease and fertility, and when carcass traits and indexes matter based on how calves are marketed.The episode wraps up with a practical look at facilities and management, underscoring that good management—more than perfect buildings—drives success with beef-on-dairy cattle.Questions, comments, scathing rebuttals? -> themoosroom@umn.edu or call 612-624-3610 and leave us a message!Linkedin -> The Moos RoomTwitter -> @UMNmoosroom and @UMNFarmSafetyFacebook -> @UMNDairyYouTube -> UMN Beef and Dairy and UMN Farm Safety and HealthInstagram -> @UMNWCROCDairyExtension WebsiteAgriAmerica Podcast Directory 

Nebraska Extension is inviting feedlot owners, managers, employees, and allied industry professionals to attend the 2026 Beef Feedlot Roundtable Series, set for Feb. 17–19 at three locations across western, central and northeast Nebraska. Extension Beef Feedlot Specialist Galen Erickson says the series will feature research-based discussions on feedlot management, cattle health, nutrition, and market outlooks, offering practical information for participants to apply to their operations.

On a warm-for-February day in Minnesota, Brad dives into two topics shaping today's dairy landscape: changing dairy herd demographics in the Upper Midwest and new research on dairy cow preferences for grooming brushes.The episode opens with a look at dairy farm numbers in Minnesota, where the state has lost nearly 37% of its dairy farms since 2019—dropping from 2,567 to just 1,622 operations. Brad breaks down herd size distribution, showing Minnesota remains dominated by small herds (especially 50–100 cows), even as the number of very large herds continues to grow. He also highlights where dairy farms are concentrated geographically, with Stearns County leading the state, and notes that seven Minnesota counties now have no dairy farms at all.Brad then compares Minnesota to Wisconsin, which still has over 5,100 licensed dairy farms. Wisconsin's dairy industry includes a notable number of goat dairies (nearly 400) and a small but interesting presence of sheep dairies. He walks through the top dairy counties in Wisconsin, illustrating how dairy production clusters in central, southwestern, and Green Bay–adjacent regions.In the second half of the episode, Brad discusses a new Purdue University study examining dairy cow preferences for grooming brushes. Researchers compared three brush types—swinging and rotating, swinging only, and stationary—and found that more than 75% of cows preferred the swinging, rotating brush. Cows spent several minutes grooming their heads, backs, and rumps, with rotating brushes offering the most engagement and relaxation. While stationary brushes were used mainly for head scratching, the study suggests that offering a variety of brush types may give cows valuable choice and enrichment.Brad wraps up by reflecting on what these trends mean for dairy farm viability, animal welfare, and management decisions—leaving listeners with practical insights and plenty to think about.Questions, comments, scathing rebuttals? -> themoosroom@umn.edu or call 612-624-3610 and leave us a message!Linkedin -> The Moos RoomTwitter -> @UMNmoosroom and @UMNFarmSafetyFacebook -> @UMNDairyYouTube -> UMN Beef and Dairy and UMN Farm Safety and HealthInstagram -> @UMNWCROCDairyExtension WebsiteAgriAmerica Podcast Directory 

*Feedlot inventories continue to shrink.   *There's an investigation of Mexican tomato imports.  *The number of screwworm cases in northern Mexico continues to rise. *A Texas High Plains rancher is seeing red, but he's actually happy about it.*The show goes on in Cowtown.  *The Trump administration could soon release details on a biofuels rule that encourages fuel producers to buy more feedstocks like corn and soybeans.  *Winter storm Fern packed a big punch in the Texas Rolling Plains.*Cattle have a well developed sense of smell.  

Brad checks in from a brutally cold stretch in western Minnesota (30–40°F below zero), noting the cows are handling it well and somatic cell counts tend to run low in the extreme cold. He then walks listeners through how he thinks about sire selection in his research herd—mostly Holsteins, plus Jerseys and a few “colored breeds” like Norwegian Red, Montbéliarde, and Normande.His selection philosophy is clear: he starts with Net Merit, but he doesn't blindly follow it. Brad says he doesn't chase milk pounds, and he wishes the major indexes put more emphasis on fertility. Instead, his priorities are:Low somatic cell count / mastitis resistanceHigh fertility (DPR, heifer and cow conception rate)Productive life and durabilityManaging inbreeding (using outcross sires when needed)A major current push: polled genetics (especially homozygous polled sires to speed progress)Brad shares many of the specific bulls he's using and why—including proven sires with lots of daughters for reliability, plus a smaller “sprinkling” of genomic bulls (often because they're polled). He highlights using popular Holstein sires like Genosource Captain, polled-focused options like Leyser PP and Seabrook PP, plus a few high-type outcross bulls mainly to reduce inbreeding, even if their production or functional traits aren't his usual preference. He also lists several Select Sires bulls (including polled sires) that fit his functional-trait focus.On the Jersey side, he emphasizes moderate cows with fertility, productive life, and livability, again weaving in polled where possible. For crossbreeding, he calls out Norwegian Red bulls with strong U.S. proofs for fertility and functional traits, and he mentions finding limited polled options in Montbéliarde but using them when available. He wraps by summarizing what listeners should take away: his herd is moving deliberately toward polled, backed by a USDA grant, while still prioritizing fertility, longevity, mastitis resistance, and outcrossing to manage inbreeding—and he invites feedback and debate from listeners.Questions, comments, scathing rebuttals? -> themoosroom@umn.edu or call 612-624-3610 and leave us a message!Linkedin -> The Moos RoomTwitter -> @UMNmoosroom and @UMNFarmSafetyFacebook -> @UMNDairyYouTube -> UMN Beef and Dairy and UMN Farm Safety and HealthInstagram -> @UMNWCROCDairyExtension WebsiteAgriAmerica Podcast Directory 

Cold temperatures, fluctuating weather conditions, and increased feed requirements can induce stress in feedlot cattle resulting in health complications. Nebraska Extension Feedlot Specialist Jessica Sperber talks about the importance of water, nutrition, windbreaks and monitoring animal health on your operation.

A feedlot study compared FerAppease applied to yearling beef steers at initial processing and reimplant to a placebo on cattle health, feeding performance and carcass characteristics.

The winter months present unique challenges for feedlot cattle, particularly in terms of maintaining health and productivity. Nebraska Extension Feedlot Specialist Jessica Sperber offers some strategies to combat winter weather in feedlot cattle.

In this solo episode of The Moos Room, Brad shares “hot off the press” research on circadian rhythms in dairy cows and what long-term sensor data can tell us about cow welfare. Drawing from a study presented at the International Precision Dairy Farming Conference in New Zealand, the episode explores how daily and seasonal behavior patterns—such as eating, rumination, activity, and rest—are shaped by environment, management, and breed.Using more than 10 years of CowManager sensor data from the University of Minnesota research herd, Brad walks through how different breeds (Holsteins, crossbreds, graze-cross cows, and 1964 Holstein genetics) show distinct seasonal rhythms. Results revealed clear breed differences in eating time, rumination, overall activity, and inactivity, with graze-cross cows showing the strongest seasonal patterns and more stable alignment with environmental cues—suggesting better adaptability to pasture-based systems.The episode highlights how disruptions to circadian rhythms—caused by inconsistent lighting, feeding schedules, or confinement—may be linked to stress, immune suppression, lameness, mastitis, and reduced fertility. Brad discusses how precision dairy technologies offer a powerful, non-invasive way to monitor these rhythms and potentially detect welfare issues before clinical signs appear.The episode wraps up by looking ahead to future research linking behavior patterns directly to health and productivity outcomes, and how better alignment of management practices with natural cow rhythms could improve welfare and resilience on dairy farms.Questions, comments, scathing rebuttals? -> themoosroom@umn.edu or call 612-624-3610 and leave us a message!Linkedin -> The Moos RoomTwitter -> @UMNmoosroom and @UMNFarmSafetyFacebook -> @UMNDairyYouTube -> UMN Beef and Dairy and UMN Farm Safety and HealthInstagram -> @UMNWCROCDairyExtension WebsiteAgriAmerica Podcast Directory 

In this solo “Emily Show” episode of The Moos Room, Emily takes a timely look at mastitis management during the winter months. While mastitis and high somatic cell counts are often associated with summer heat and humidity, Emily reminds listeners that cold weather brings its own risks and requires just as much attention to udder health.She begins by emphasizing the foundation of mastitis prevention: clean, dry bedding, cow comfort, and good ventilation. These basics reduce stress on cows and limit bacterial exposure, which is especially important when winter conditions can lead to damp or dirty housing.Emily then dives into winter-specific milking routine challenges, especially when cows are exposed to cold temperatures after milking. Wet teats are at much higher risk of frostbite, which can permanently damage teat ends and predispose cows to infections. While this makes some producers hesitant to use post-milking teat dip in cold weather, Emily strongly advises against skipping this crucial step. Instead, she shares a practical guideline: “Don't skip dip—but don't drip.” In other words, apply teat dip thoroughly, but avoid excessive dripping that can freeze. Letting cows stand for 20–30 seconds after dipping and wiping off excess dip before they go outside can provide protection against both mastitis and frostbite.She also discusses udder hair management, noting that long hair can trap teat dip, manure, and moisture. Options like singeing or clipping udders can help keep teats cleaner and drier, especially in winter.Finally, Emily highlights the role of nutrition in mastitis prevention. Cold stress increases a cow's energy needs, and inadequate nutrition can weaken immune function. Ensuring cows receive enough energy, protein, vitamins, and minerals helps support immune defenses and overall udder health. Working closely with a nutritionist during the winter is key.Emily wraps up by reminding listeners that even if mastitis seems less severe in winter than in summer, it still requires consistent attention year-round. With proper milking routines, clean housing, good nutrition, and smart winter management, producers can protect teat health and keep somatic cell counts in check all season long.Questions, comments, scathing rebuttals? -> themoosroom@umn.edu or call 612-624-3610 and leave us a message!Linkedin -> The Moos RoomTwitter -> @UMNmoosroom and @UMNFarmSafetyFacebook -> @UMNDairyYouTube -> UMN Beef and Dairy and UMN Farm Safety and HealthInstagram -> @UMNWCROCDairyExtension WebsiteAgriAmerica Podcast Directory 

Welcome to the RealAg Radio Farmer Rapid Fire, brought to you by Corteva Crop Protection! On today’s show host Shaun Haney is joined by: Brendan Byrne of Essex, Ont.; Ron Krahn of Rivers, Man.; Chris Bauer of Lake Lenore, Sask, Patrick Kunz of Beiseker, Alta.; and, Saskatchewan agronomist Rhett Duke of Corteva Agriscience. Thoughts on... Read More

Welcome to the RealAg Radio Farmer Rapid Fire, brought to you by Corteva Crop Protection! On today’s show host Shaun Haney is joined by: Brendan Byrne of Essex, Ont.; Ron Krahn of Rivers, Man.; Chris Bauer of Lake Lenore, Sask, Patrick Kunz of Beiseker, Alta.; and, Saskatchewan agronomist Rhett Duke of Corteva Agriscience. Thoughts on... Read More

In the first episode of 2026, Emily and Brad kick off a New Year's “resolution” to record more episodes together and dive into one of their favorite themes: management. The conversation is sparked by a German case study Brad found that followed 10 German dairy herd managers (average ~600 cows; range 200–1,200) for three weeks, tracking their work minute-by-minute to see how managers spend time—and what actually drives herd performance.The key concept is “controlling activities,” defined as proactive checks and analysis (not just reacting and “putting out fires”). They break these into three categories: animal controls (pen walks, fresh/sick cow monitoring, reviewing sensor alerts), feeding controls (bunk/refusal checks, feed sampling, monitoring mixing and storage), and process controls (reviewing herd records, equipment checks, ventilation/manure systems, cleanliness).A big takeaway: herd managers spent much of their day on communication and logistics, while only about 15% of time went to controlling activities (animal ~9%, feeding ~1%, process ~5%). Yet the study found that performance wasn't linked to total hours worked, but to how much time was dedicated to these proactive controls. Farms where managers spent more time on controlling activities showed better outcomes, including lower mortality, lower somatic cell count, higher lifetime production, and reduced youngstock losses.They also highlight a concerning “disconnect” around feeding: managers often had minimal involvement in feed-related controls even though feed is a major cost and driver of health and production. The episode closes with practical guidance for any farm size: prioritize time intentionally, increase proactive controlling activities (even slightly), and ensure herd managers stay connected to the feeding process—setting the tone for a more efficient, resilient 2026.Questions, comments, scathing rebuttals? -> themoosroom@umn.edu or call 612-624-3610 and leave us a message!Linkedin -> The Moos RoomTwitter -> @UMNmoosroom and @UMNFarmSafetyFacebook -> @UMNDairyYouTube -> UMN Beef and Dairy and UMN Farm Safety and HealthInstagram -> @UMNWCROCDairyExtension WebsiteAgriAmerica Podcast Directory 

In the final episode of 2025, Emily and Brad reflect on another big year for The Moos Room, marking more than 300 episodes since launching in 2019. They look back on key 2025 topics, including real-world dairy case studies from the Morris Research Dairy, health and safety conversations, emerging disease issues, beef markets, virtual fencing, and growing interest in agrivoltaics.Brad highlights the value of openly sharing on-farm challenges—from calf health issues to nutrition troubleshooting—so listeners can learn alongside the research process. Emily shares how 2025 deepened her understanding of virtual fencing, renewable energy in agriculture, and farm safety, while continuing to champion sunscreen use year-round.Looking ahead to 2026, they preview upcoming projects and episodes on virtual fencing, agrivoltaics, genetics, feed efficiency, and a new study raising purebred Angus calves in a dairy system. They also hope to expand global perspectives on livestock and agriculture and invite listeners to suggest topics, guests, and on-air case studies.They close by thanking listeners for another year of support and looking forward to more conversations in 2026.Questions, comments, scathing rebuttals? -> themoosroom@umn.edu or call 612-624-3610 and leave us a message!Linkedin -> The Moos RoomTwitter -> @UMNmoosroom and @UMNFarmSafetyFacebook -> @UMNDairyYouTube -> UMN Beef and Dairy and UMN Farm Safety and HealthInstagram -> @UMNWCROCDairyExtension WebsiteAgriAmerica Podcast Directory 

North Dakota State University’s Carrington Research Extension Center will hold its annual NDSU Feedlot School on Jan. 21-22, 2026. Source: NDSU ExtensionSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

*Feedlot inventories continue to drop.  *USDA's NRCS has set a single deadline for farmers and ranchers to sign up for conservation programs.  *The application period for the Texas Specialty Crop Block Grant Program is now open.  *The beef industry has made massive improvements in the quality of beef sold to consumers.  *A new pasture herbicide will be available for forage producers.  *Economic assistance is available for milk and grain losses.  *Fertilization of winter pastures should be based on soil tests.  *Researchers are studying how cattle can become infected with salmonella.  

In this short solo episode of The Moos Room, Emily takes the mic to talk about managing holiday stress through setting healthy boundaries. With the holidays approaching, Emily shares practical guidance on navigating family dynamics, uncomfortable conversations, and competing demands on time and energy.She outlines three simple steps for setting boundaries—being clear and direct, stating what you need, and accepting any discomfort that may follow—and walks through real-world examples such as saying no, redirecting conversations, asking for time, and stepping away when needed. Emily emphasizes that boundaries can be temporary or permanent, and that setting them is an important form of self-care.The episode closes with a reminder that boundaries help reduce unnecessary stress, support resilience, and contribute to healthier relationships. Emily encourages listeners to reflect on their own needs this holiday season and to remember that taking care of yourself is not selfish—it's essential.Questions, comments, scathing rebuttals? -> themoosroom@umn.edu or call 612-624-3610 and leave us a message!Linkedin -> The Moos RoomTwitter -> @UMNmoosroom and @UMNFarmSafetyFacebook -> @UMNDairyYouTube -> UMN Beef and Dairy and UMN Farm Safety and HealthInstagram -> @UMNWCROCDairyExtension WebsiteAgriAmerica Podcast Directory 

In this episode of The Moos Room, Brad dives into a landmark new study examining the effects of short- and long-distance transport on the health, survival, and growth of pre-weaned dairy and dairy–beef crossbred calves. Drawing on data from nearly 392,000 calves across multiple farms and transport durations (ranging from 30 minutes to 24 hours), the study challenges common assumptions about calf transport. Surprisingly, mortality upon arrival was extremely low and unaffected by transport length. Differences in mortality by weaning (60 days) were also modest and, importantly, were driven far more by early-life factors than by time spent on the truck.The discussion highlights colostrum management as the single most critical factor influencing calf outcomes. Calves fed two colostrum meals had higher serum protein levels, significantly lower rates of failure of passive transfer, and were about 50% less likely to develop diarrhea—one of the leading causes of pre-weaning mortality. Other key drivers of calf survival included diarrhea, pneumonia, dam parity, gestation length, and birth season, with transport duration explaining relatively little of the variation in outcomes. Brad emphasizes that a calf's “destiny is largely sealed before the wheels start rolling,” underscoring that management decisions made at birth—especially colostrum feeding, dam health, and environmental stress mitigation—matter far more than transport distance alone.Questions, comments, scathing rebuttals? -> themoosroom@umn.edu or call 612-624-3610 and leave us a message!Linkedin -> The Moos RoomTwitter -> @UMNmoosroom and @UMNFarmSafetyFacebook -> @UMNDairyYouTube -> UMN Beef and Dairy and UMN Farm Safety and HealthInstagram -> @UMNWCROCDairyExtension WebsiteAgriAmerica Podcast Directory 

In this episode, Brad and Emily welcome a special guest: Dr. Angie Varnum, the University of Minnesota Extension's new livestock veterinarian. After some banter about Minnesota winters—and a classic round of The Moos Room's “super-secret” cattle breed questions—the crew dives into Angie's unique path to Extension.Angie shares how she went from growing up in suburban Maple Grove to studying Spanish education, teaching in schools, and eventually being inspired to pursue veterinary medicine. Her training and work took her across the western U.S., where she gained experience in beef and dairy systems before returning to Minnesota to practice large-animal medicine. Her love for both animals and education ultimately led her to Extension.The conversation explores:How Angie's Spanish language background shapes her work and the opportunities it creates for better outreach and training with Spanish-speaking livestock employees.Current and emerging livestock health concerns, and the importance of distinguishing real risks from media frenzy—while still preparing producers with good information.The evolving role of veterinarians in dairy and beef systems, from herd health and data-driven decision-making to the value of strong producer–vet relationships.Animal behavior and welfare science, an area Angie is especially passionate about integrating into herd health discussions.Angie also highlights upcoming Extension programs she'll be involved in, including the new Artificial Insemination School, Beef Quality Assurance certification sessions, Cow/Calf Days, and several small ruminant programs—from webinars to hands-on lambing and kidding workshops.It's a fun, thoughtful conversation introducing a new member of the Extension livestock team and setting the stage for exciting work ahead.Questions, comments, scathing rebuttals? -> themoosroom@umn.edu or call 612-624-3610 and leave us a message!Linkedin -> The Moos RoomTwitter -> @UMNmoosroom and @UMNFarmSafetyFacebook -> @UMNDairyYouTube -> UMN Beef and Dairy and UMN Farm Safety and HealthInstagram -> @UMNWCROCDairyExtension WebsiteAgriAmerica Podcast Directory 

In this solo episode of The Moos Room, Brad dives into a deep, honest look at production challenges in the University of Minnesota dairy herd and the nutrition and management factors that may be holding cows back. After noticing low udder fill during classification and reviewing herd data, Brad confirms a troubling trend: cows across all lactations are producing 20–30% less milk than predicted. Early-lactation health issues—ketosis, metritis, and retained placentas—are also more common than they should be, especially in first-lactation animals.A recent visit from an outside nutrition team helped uncover several key issues contributing to poor performance. Brad walks listeners through what those “fresh eyes” found across young stock, calves, dry cows, and both the organic and conventional lactating herds. From overconditioned heifers to transition problems at weaning, ration inconsistencies, possible ingredient imbalances, and major concerns with hammer-mill screen size causing undigested corn to pass straight through cows—each discovery points to opportunities for improvement.The conversation also highlights the importance of forage management, including the need for a silage facer, better bunk management, and a long-overdue TMR audit to evaluate mixing order, load prep, refusals, shrink, and ration consistency.Throughout the episode, Brad emphasizes transparency and the value of bringing in additional perspectives. Even well-managed dairies can develop blind spots, and small issues add up fast when milk is left on the table. He outlines the farm's next steps and promises future updates as changes are implemented.If you're interested in nutrition, transition cow health, TMR audits, or practical herd-level troubleshooting, this episode is a real-world case study in identifying problems and planning for better performance.Questions, comments, scathing rebuttals? -> themoosroom@umn.edu or call 612-624-3610 and leave us a message!Linkedin -> The Moos RoomTwitter -> @UMNmoosroom and @UMNFarmSafetyFacebook -> @UMNDairyYouTube -> UMN Beef and Dairy and UMN Farm Safety and HealthInstagram -> @UMNWCROCDairyExtension WebsiteAgriAmerica Podcast Directory 

Brad and Emily reunite on the podcast to dive into an essential—and timely—topic: farmer mental health. With fall wrapping up and winter on the horizon, stressors on the farm shift and often intensify. Emily shares updates on her recent travels and outreach work in farm safety, health, and wellness, highlighting the seasonal rise in mental health–related concerns across rural communities.Together, Brad and Emily walk through:Why stress is so high right now — uncertainty in markets, weather, disease, economic pressure, and social isolation.Common mental health concerns in farmers, including chronic stress, anxiety, and depression.Key warning signs to watch for in yourself and others—physical symptoms, behavioral changes, and emotional red flags.How to reach out when you're concerned about someone, and why it matters more than people realize.Barriers rural residents face when accessing mental health care, including service shortages and stigma.University of Minnesota Extension's work supporting mental health, including training programs like COMET, resources on ambiguous loss, and broader regional efforts to make help more accessible.Emily emphasizes that checking in, offering support, and connecting people to resources can make a meaningful difference. The episode wraps with reminders that it's okay to not be okay—but it's not okay to keep it to yourself. Brad and Emily also point listeners to a long list of mental health and farm stress resources in the show notes, including Emily's recent appearance on RFD-TV discussing this very topic.COMET: Changing our mental and emotional trajectory TrainingAmbiguous loss and farmingUMN Extension Farm Safety and Health webpageMinnesota Farm Stress resourcesFarm Aid Farmer Resource NetworkQuestions, comments, scathing rebuttals? -> themoosroom@umn.edu or call 612-624-3610 and leave us a message!Linkedin -> The Moos RoomTwitter -> @UMNmoosroom and @UMNFarmSafetyFacebook -> @UMNDairyYouTube -> UMN Beef and Dairy and UMN Farm Safety and HealthInstagram -> @UMNWCROCDairyExtension WebsiteAgriAmerica Podcast Directory 

In this week's episode of Cattle Chat, the experts discuss the evolution in the feedlot industry. They debate how producers used to calculate cost based on feed efficiency. The team also questions different cow-calf practices. Lastly, they debate whether or not you should have bigger cows with heavier weaned weight for your calves or if you should have smaller cows so there are more cows per acre, resulting in more calves being sold.   3:10 Evaluation in the Feedlot Industry  11:00 Questioning Cow Calf Practices  15:50 Bigger Cows vs Smaller Cows on Pasture   For more on BCI Cattle Chat, follow us on X at @ksubci, Facebook, and Instagram at @ksubci. Check out our website, ksubci.org. If you have any comments/questions/topic ideas, please send them to bci@ksu.edu. You can also email us to sign up for our weekly news blast! Don't forget, if you enjoy the show, please go give us a rating!

Brad recaps a fall road trip with the Minnesota dairy extension team to South Dakota's rapidly growing I-29 dairy corridor, highlighting what innovative farms are doing to boost efficiency, cow health, and profitability. Along the way, they tour the Bel Brands plant in Brookings, where milk from about 10,000 cows a day is turned into those familiar Babybel snack cheeses, and hear how the plant's demand for high-protein milk is shaping local production.On the farm visits, Brad digs into why one 1,700-cow dairy is ripping out a barn full of robots after just a few years—citing software headaches, maintenance demands, and an extra dollar per hundredweight in cost—and how they're using strict 5-minute milking times and strong beef-on-dairy markets to stay competitive. He then visits a Holstein dairy using parlor timers, FutureCow brushes, genomic testing, Akushi (red Wagyu) beef-on-dairy crosses, intensive calf biosecurity, and a Danish SKOV ventilation system to keep big groups of calves healthy.The final stop is a 6,000-cow Jersey herd proving Jerseys can be successfully raised in northern climates. Brad shares how they use SenseHub tags on calves from birth, IVF and embryo work for high-value Jersey genetics, fresh-heifer mastitis prevention strategies in recycled bedding systems, and clever pen redesigns to add bunk space.In this episode, you'll hear about:Why one large dairy abandoned milking robots for a parlorHow timers in the parlor are being used to speed up milking and labor efficiencyBeef-on-dairy strategies, from Angus to Akushi crosses and premium Texas marketsNew approaches to calf housing, ventilation, and biosecurityUsing precision technology and genomic data to guide breeding and health decisionsPractical ideas Brad wants to bring home to the U of M dairy, from boot disinfectant to fresh-heifer dry treatmentQuestions, comments, scathing rebuttals? -> themoosroom@umn.edu or call 612-624-3610 and leave us a message!Linkedin -> The Moos RoomTwitter -> @UMNmoosroom and @UMNFarmSafetyFacebook -> @UMNDairyYouTube -> UMN Beef and Dairy and UMN Farm Safety and HealthInstagram -> @UMNWCROCDairyExtension WebsiteAgriAmerica Podcast Directory