As cows get closer to calving, nutritional requirements change. NDSU associate professor says a great amount of fetal growth is occurring right now for those cows calving in March and April. “Seventy-five to 90 percent of calf growth is occurring in the final three months of the pregnancy,” says Dahlen. “As that occurs, cows will need about a 20 percent increase in protein 16 percent increase in energy consumption.” When nutritional requirements are not met, Dahlen says there are consequences for both calves and cows. To ensure cows are nutritionally ready for calving, producers should evaluate their current condition. Listen to more.