The fall months have been dry throughout much of South Dakota, with the latest USDA pasture and rangeland conditions coming in at 31 percent poor-to-very poor. That has altered plans for cattle producers. South Dakota State University Extension cow/calf specialist Olivia Amundson says many have weaned calves early. “In a way it’s kind of the perfect storm. While pastures are dying out faster than expected, harvest is moving along and those corn stalks can be grazed sooner.” For the cattle producers who’ve already weaned, it’s important to be feeding those calves so they gain properly. Cow nutrition is important as well. “Now is the optimal time to put increase body conditions scores in cows. We want that cow to have a score no less than five at calving once she starts lactating.” Amundson offers more weaning, feeding and calving set up tips in this Red River Farm Network interview.
