Want to make a first-year graduate student feel really dumb? Put him in a room with several leading researchers in his field of study and ask what he learned. Talk about a challenge. Luckily I didn't have to actually get up and speak, but it was encouraging enough to sit in on the "Think Tank" … Continue reading “Think Tank” on Cattle Reproductive Technology
Bull Semen Collection and Ohio Select Sires
This month I checked another state off the list as I traveled to Columbus, Ohio for a work trip. We were there for a "Think Tank" meeting with some of the best reproductive physiologists in the academic world of cattle in the U.S. Along with this meeting, we had the opportunity to tour the Select … Continue reading Bull Semen Collection and Ohio Select Sires
In response to HSUS’ “A Pig’s Tail” [Video]
In case you missed it, today was Food Day - an opportunity to focus on our food system and the diversity within. The Humane Society of the United States (read my thoughts on the organization here) took advantage of this event to aim at modern pork production. The HSUS, not affiliated with your local pet … Continue reading In response to HSUS’ “A Pig’s Tail” [Video]
Top 10 reasons for reproductive failure in cows and bulls
Let's face it... Farming is a business. To operate, a business must turn some kind of profit. In the cattle business, reproduction is one of the most important economic traits. More important than growth, production, or carcass performance. If a cow fails to have a calf on the ground every year, something is missing. Understanding … Continue reading Top 10 reasons for reproductive failure in cows and bulls
Agriculture has some work to do
Recently in my article on CNN's Eatocracy, I noted the need for a more balanced education for customers, but this fully applies to the agriculture community as well. It's a work in progress for myself, and I've been reaching out for more candid conversations with those outside of agriculture production for their thoughts. So here … Continue reading Agriculture has some work to do
Youth Livestock Skills Competition
Earlier this week I told ya about all of the fun we had in the show ring at the Tennessee Junior Livestock Expo, but there was another competition at the event. Raising and showing livestock involves many more skills outside of the show ring. This includes subjects like health, nutrition, handling, and of course knowing … Continue reading Youth Livestock Skills Competition
How do I build fences for livestock?
Pasture Fencing: Everyone has their own way of doing it. Every situation is different. No two fences are the same. Whether the project is a short two hours of patching or an extended building project, each needs its fair share of planning! It's one of my favorite things to do when I need a little … Continue reading How do I build fences for livestock?
The Life of a Beef Cow | Heifer vs Cow
One of the more common questions have about the life of a beef cow has been, what is the difference between a cow and a heifer. A heifer has not given birth to offspring. A cow has given birth once or more. To be more specific, we can break it down into more technical terms. … Continue reading The Life of a Beef Cow | Heifer vs Cow
Photo Friday: Experience and Knowledge
"The stockman whose training has been solely in the school of experience often holds in light regard that which is written concerning his vocation. Let him remember the facts and truths are the same whether the repository is a book or the human mind. Held by the latter, all perish with the possessor; in keeping … Continue reading Photo Friday: Experience and Knowledge
McDonald’s Advertisement Misleading, Cattle Full of Antibiotics
When responses get too long... I had a comment on my post about McDonald's new farmer ad campaign this weekend and my response became a bit lengthy. I guess it just hit a spot when people start assuming things about cattle feeding operations and that real farmers aren't out there in the pasture with their … Continue reading McDonald’s Advertisement Misleading, Cattle Full of Antibiotics