Cattle HQ: Recent Episodes
SDSU Extension
The podcast for cow/calf producers interested in cutting-edge information about cow/calf production from experts and producers in nutrition, reproduction, health and economics. Hosted by SDSU Extension Cow/Calf Field Specialists Robin Salverson, Adele Harty, Kiernan Brandt and Olivia Amundson, Cattle HQ will release new episodes every other week.
In this episode of The Grazing Toolbox, Kim Ricardo, SDSU Extension Forage Field Specialist, and Parker Witt, SDSU Extension Crop-Livestock Systems Field Specialist, sit down with Dr. Matthew Diersen, SDSU Extension Risk and Business Management Specialist, and Dr. Sarah Sellars, SDSU Extension Sustainable Farm and Food Systems Specialist, to discuss forage crop insurance programs and the benefits they can bring to operations experiencing extended dry periods. Highlights include:
- Annual Forage Rainfall Index insurance upcoming July 15 deadline for the 2027 crop year
- Noninsured Crop Disaster Assistance Program (NAP)
- Livestock Forage Disaster Program (LFP)
- Pasture, Rangeland, and Forage (PRF) insurance
In this episode of The Grazing Toolbox, Kim Ricardo, SDSU Extension Forage Field Specialist, Taylor Grussing, SDSU Extension Cow/Calf Field Specialist, Robin Salverson, SDSU Extension Cow/Calf Field Specialist and Parker Witt, SDSU Extension Crop-Livestock Systems Field Specialist discuss current climate conditions and how they may influence forage and feed management decisions. Key topics include:
- Conditions that contribute to nitrate accumulation in forages
- When and why forages should be tested for nitrates
- Strategies for safely feeding high-nitrate forages and feedstuffs
- Grazing management considerations related to nitrate risk
- SDSU Extension Rapid Nitrate Test Strip Services
For additional information about nitrate management or SDSU Extension nitrate testing services, please contact an SDSU Extension Specialist.
In this episode of Grazing Toolbox, we visited with Jaelyn Whaley and Dave Ollila to discuss multi-species livestock integration and how sheep and cattle can work together to improve grazing management, forage utilization, and overall ranch resilience. Drawing from both Extension and producer perspectives, the conversation explores the opportunities, challenges, and practical considerations involved in incorporating sheep into grazing systems.
Highlights include:
- Guest backgrounds, grazing operations, and the landscapes that shaped their management approaches
- Key management differences between sheep and cattle, and why the species complement one another
- Native range versus planted pastures, interseeding opportunities, and annual forage utilization
- Tandem grazing strategies and considerations for grazing livestock together or separately
- Weed management, selective grazing behavior, and plant community responses in multi-species systems
- Water development, fencing infrastructure, and parasite management considerations
- Drought resilience through forage diversity, carrying capacity adjustments, and enterprise flexibility
- Lambing systems, labor requirements, and predator management strategies
- Wool markets, processing challenges, and opportunities for enterprise stacking
- Soil Health Coalition initiatives and practical first steps for producers interested in integrated livestock systems
- The economics of regenerative grazing practices, including where returns are delayed, what investments paid off quickest, and lessons learned from practices that fell short of expectations
For more information on grazing management, sheep production, and integrated livestock systems, please contact an SDSU Extension specialist.
This episode of Cattle HQ focuses on taking stock of current growing conditions and making key operational adjustments to manage the cattle herd and forage resources in challenging weather conditions including drought-stricken areas of the Midwest.
Listen to this episode to learn more about:
- Adjusting stocking rates based on forage production.
- Emergency funding resources to help with feed, water and transportation expenses.
- How and where to test hay and water quality.
- Considerations for maintaining herd size such as drylotting pairs and early weaning.
Visit the SDSU Extension website to learn more.
On today’s episode of Cattle HQ, we discuss how to test bulls for fertility with Dr. Russ Daly, SDSU Extension Veterinarian. This includes looking at both physical attributes and semen quality so bulls can breed cows successfully. Listen to learn more about:
- What is involved in breeding soundness exams
- The best time to semen test bulls and when to retest if necessary
- Setting bulls up for breeding with adequate nutrition and health management
- Acclimation of new bulls to the herd and biosecurity
On today’s episode of Cattle HQ, we are launching the Grazing Toolbox and visiting with the curators Parker Witt and Kim Ricoardo to highlight this grazing series.
Take a listen to learn more!
- Grazing Toolbox episodes will share stories from producers doing new grazing practices in a variety of systems and expand on their trials and successes.
- How to get started evaluating current and new forage & grazing resources.
- Setting production goals and where annual forages fit into a perennial or cropping system.
- Matching requirements of animals to forage resources and how multispecies grazing can benefit grazing systems.
- More episodes coming monthly will be tagged with title: Grazing Toolbox.
Parker Witt is a Crop-Livestock Systems Field Specialist and Kim Ricardo is a Forage Field Specialist with SDSU Extension.
Visit the SDSU Extension website to learn more.
In this episode of Cattle HQ, Taylor Grussing, SDSU Extension Cow Calf Field Specialist visited with Pete Bauman about how to manage moving the calving season from March to May to reduce input costs and calve on grass. Highlights include:
- Matching nutrient resources of cows to grass production
- Structuring a new calving pasture
- Infrastructure utilization and labor changes
- Breeding season heat mitigation
For more information on calving season, please contact an SDSU Extension specialist.
In this episode of Cattle HQ, we visited with Matt Diersen, SDSU Extension Risk/Business Management Specialist about the most recent cattle on feed report that was released in the middle of February. Highlights include:
- Cattle supply and higher carcass weights
- How total cattle outside of feedlots is calculated
- Beef x dairy impact on the cattle feed supply
- The basics of Livestock Risk Protection
For more information on cattle marketing, please contact an SDSU Extension specialist.
This episode of Cattle HQ focuses setting up the cow herd and the ranch to have a successful calving season.
Listen to this episode to learn more from Taylor Grussing about:
- Colostrum development and why calves need to consume colostrum soon after birth.
- Colostrum sources, if the dam’s colostrum is not enough.
- The 3 stages of calving and when to intervene to minimize stress on the calf and cow.
- Proper handling and positioning of a calf after an assisted birth.
- Myth buster on nutrition and large birthweight calves.
Taylor Grussing is a Cow Calf Field Specialist with SDSU Extension.
Visit the SDSU Extension website to learn more.
On today’s episode of Cattle HQ, Taylor Grussing, Cow/Calf Field Specialist visits with Dr. Warren Rusche, SDSU Extension Feedlot Specialist about the Livestock Stress tool he helped develop which is available on the SD Mesonet website. This tool gives a cattle comfort index including climate, windchill and temperature data to document from mild to extreme stress (cold and heat) that animals may experience over a 48 hour period. Take a listen to learn about these metrics and practical uses for the tool by cattlemen across the state.
During this episode of Cattle HQ, Taylor Grussing, SDSU Extension Cow Calf Field Specialists sits down with Laura Edwards, SDSU Extension State Climatologist to share an outlook on winter weather. Climate predictions may help cattlemen set up shelters and prepare for calving season sooner than later.
Listen to this episode to learn more about:
- Climate patterns
- Temperature and precipitation outlook for calving season
- Tools for cattlemen to monitor weather
For more information on preparing beef cattle for winter weather, visit the Beef page on Extension.sdstate.edu.
In this episode of Cattle HQ, Taylor Grussing sits down with Calli Williams, a cattle producer, mom, beef advocate and direct-to-consumer business owner to learn more about her perspective on what beef cuts are great for family holiday meals, how much to purchase for gathering, and even some preparation and leftover options.
Taylor and Calli also visit about how they select their genetics to go into the direct-to-consumer beef marketing business. In addition, we touch on the processing options, harvest planning and inspection they take pride in doing to supply a quality, wholesome and nutritious beef product to consumers that they can serve at any family get together.
During this episode of Cattle HQ, Taylor Grussing, Cow/Calf Field Specialist based out of Mitchell visits with Dr. Saulo Zoca, Assistant Professor and Extension Beef Cattle Specialist for the University of Tennessee. We are going to discuss current research on bull fertility markers and how he started his research in sire fertility looking at water buffalo, to now evaluating beef on dairy sires. In addition, we discuss bull management throughout the winter, paired with proper nutrition and body condition being key to having fertile bulls the following breeding season. Lastly, breeding soundness exams are evaluating more than just semen and how all bulls need to be scored before they get turned out.
On today’s episode of Cattle HQ, Taylor Grussing, SDSU Extension Cow/Calf Field Specialist visits with Dr. Randi Culbertson, Cow/Calf Extension Specialist and Faculty at Iowa State University in Ames, Iowa to dig into utilizing genetic resources such as EPDs and Genomics available for cattlemen to create a genetic roadmap for their operations.
Johne’s is a bacterial disease that is a slow progressive disease that affects both the beef and dairy industries. During this episode Dr. Daly shares why cattle producers should be concerned about this disease.
Listen to this episode to learn more about:
- The clinical signs of Johne’s disease.
- How the disease is transmitted and how to manage transmission.
- Strategies to manage Johne’s through testing.
Dr. Russ Daly is the Extension Veterinarian and Professor in the Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences Department at SDSU.
Visit the SDSU Extension website to learn more about Johne’s.
On this episode of Cattle HQ, Madison Kovarna sits down with Dr. Justin Waggoner from Kansas State University. Justin is a professor and an Extension Beef Cattle Specialist. Justin recently presented at the Siouxland Feedlot Forum, a joint-venture with SDSU Extension and UNL Extension, regarding a feedlot close out dataset that they have been working on for almost 30 years. Madison was able to convince him to get behind the mic again to share trends and his thoughts on not only the dataset that he manages, but also how important it is for producers to capture their own close out data.
On today’s episode of Cattle HQ, Taylor Grussing, SDSU Extension Cow/Calf Field Specialist visits with Dr. Rick Funston Professor and Extension Reproductive Specialist with the University of Nebraska Extension and based out of the West Central Research and Extension center in North Platte, NE.
Listen to learn more about how simple grazing corn residue can make cattle feeding during the winter. Topics addressed include:
- The ins and outs of grazing corn residue – what to look for before turning out cattle
- How to match supplement strategies with grazing resources
- Economics of grazing corn residue for both livestock owners and cropland operators
Visit SDSU Extension to learn more about grazing corn residue.
South Dakota State University Extension is pleased to announce a farm planning program designed to provide a more complete look at what farm and ranch families need.
During this episode of Cattle HQ, Robin Salverson visits with Dr. Lora Saboe Wounded Head the Whole Farm Planning program offered by SDSU Extension.
Listen to learn:
- Why is this program important to farm and ranch families.
- Where and when this program will be held in South Dakota
- Who should attend this program?
- Learn how Dr. Lorna Saboe Wounded Head can help farm and ranch families with financial resource management.
Visit SDSU Extension (www.extension.sdstate.edu) to learn more and register for the Whole Farm Program.
Contact Dr. Lorna Saboe Wounded Head at lorna.woundedhead@sdstate.edu or 605-782-3290.
Congestive heart failure in cattle is a concern amongst cow calf producers and feedyards throughout the Midwest. Often considered a high-altitude issue, however, Dr. Brian Vander Ley discusses during this episode of Cattle HQ, why producers in the lower elevations of northern great plains should be aware of congestive heart failure. Listen to learn more about:
- What is congestive heart failure and clinical signs.
- What causes congestive heart failure.
- At what age does congestive heart failure affect the animal.
- The financial impact on industry.
- What can cow calf producers do to reduce the incidences of congestive heart failure.
Dr. Brian Vander Ley is an Associate Professor of Veterinary Epidemiology and the Director of the Great Plains Veterinary Educational Center (GPVEC) within the School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Dr. Vander Ley has been working in the area of congestive heart failure over 8 years
During this episode of Cattle HQ, Taylor Grussing, Cow/Calf Field Specialist based out of Mitchell along with co-host Addie Stamps, SDSU Extension Livestock Production and Stewardship Field Specialist visit with, Dr. Warren Rusche and Dr. Zach Smith, South Dakota State University Assistant Professors based out of Brookings, SD, to discuss tips on sourcing and receiving new calves into the feedlot.
The Johnson Ranch has a long history of producing seedstock and the tradition continues with Bailey Johnson. The ranch located northwest of Mobridge, South Dakota is unique because they rely solely on dams to water their cattle throughout the year. During this episode of Cattle HQ, listeners will hear from Bailey to learn more on how they use livestock water testing to better manage their pastures and cattle.
- Why did they begin testing their water?
- What impacts have Johnson Ranch seen due to poor quality water.
- What management strategies have they incorporated due to water quality.
- How do they test their water?
- Learn more about the service of Livestock Water Testing by SDSU Extension.
To learn more about the Livestock Water Testing service that SDSU Extension provides, visit SDSU Extension.
On today’s episode of Cattle HQ, Madison Kovarna sits down with Michael Drotzmann to take a peek behind the auction block. Michael is an Auctioneer and Field Representative with Stockmen’s Livestock Inc in Yankton, SD. The duo talks about how Michael found himself behind the auction block, tips for producers when getting ready to send calves, the importance of a strong relationship with your auctioneer, and so much more.
In this episode of Cattle HQ, Madison Kovarna sits down with Adam Grimm and his daughter Madison Grimm to chat about how cattle and ducks may not be so distantly connected after all.
South Dakota is a literal honey hole when it comes to duck populations, breeding/nesting ground, and migratory routes. Often times ducks will use pasture, hay land, and crop fields as nesting sites depending on the species of duck. We as cattle producers and people involved with agriculture in South Dakota actually have a unique opportunity to influence ducks that end up all over the country. Madison Grimm founded a nonprofit organization called Second Chance Flight with a mission to rescue and raise ducklings from nests that are accidentally destroyed during routine farming operations like tilling and haying. Madison Grimm works directly with producers from collecting eggs to finding wetlands to release ducklings once they are ready. You can find more information regarding Second Chance Flight at secondchanceflight.com.
In this episode of Cattle HQ, Madison Kovarna sits down with Dr. Ben St. Pierre from South Dakota State University to discuss all thing microbiome and cattle digestive system.
Microbiomes surround us in our daily life from the bacteria, fungi, and other little ‘bugs’ that live on the front porch door handle, to those that exist in the rumen of a mature cow. When developing rations for cattle, we are not just feeding the cow herself but also the billions of microorganisms that live in the rumen that are responsible for digesting feed. Madison and Dr. St Pierre chat about what in the world a microbiome is, the microorganisms that call the rumen home, and cannulated cow’s importance in the research world.
In this episode of Cattle HQ, Madison Kovarna sits down with Sarah Erickson from TELUS Agriculture to talk more about hoof health concerns in feedlot cattle.
Proper diagnosis of hoof health diseases is of upmost importance. While we’re not veterinarians, it’s important for producers and industry members to recognize and understand common hoof diseases. Madison and Sarah discuss common hoof health issues such as laminitis, foot rot, and toe tip necrosis and considerations in managing and identifying these illnesses. While foot health may not be the most glamourous subject, it’s definitely one worth paying attention to.
During this episode of Cattle HQ, Robin Salverson introduces Dr. Rebecca Swanson, one of the newest faculty members in the Department of Animal Science at SDSU. She has filled the role as the Assistant Professor of Reproductive Physiology.
Learn more about her past, current and future research related to pregnancy efficiency.
Contact Dr. Rebecca Swanson at rebecca.swanson@sdstate.edu or 605-688-5417.
During this episode hosted by Robin Salverson and Madison Kovarna, listeners will learn about Dugan Bad Warrior’s journey to a more drought resilient ranch.
The Zuya Sica Ranch is located north of Dupree, SD along the Moreau River. In 2016, Dugan’s journey began from running on large pastures to shifting his paradigm to soil health and managed grazing. His journey is not over, he continues to educate himself so his ranch continues to the next generation.
During this episode of Cattle HQ, Madison Kovarna shares information about an upcoming event being presented by Addie Stamps, SDSU Extension Livestock Production and Stewardship Field Specialist call the Stockmanship and Stewardship Conference.
Listen to learn more about the conference as well as details on when it's being held.
During this episode of Cattle HQ, Robin Salverson explores the opportunity of using sexed semen in a commercial herd by implementing the 60:40 program with Kenny Wells with ABS Global. Commercial beef cattle producers can leverage genetic potential by implementing sexed semen into their AI breeding program.
Listen to learn more about how sexed semen can fit into your beef herd.
Kenny Wells is the ABS Beef Genetic Program Development Lead
The use of vaccines is a common practice on cattle operations, however, there are different types, modes of action and label recommendations which can be confusing. During this episode of Cattle HQ, Dr. Russ Daly answers the following questions to help producers navigate the world of vaccines:
- How do the different types of vaccines (MLV vs. killed) work within the animal?
- What is the purpose of the booster vaccination?
- Why do we booster?
- When do we booster?
Host Robin Salverson, SDSU Extension Cow Calf Field Specialist.
Dr. Russ Daly is the Extension Veterinarian and Professor in the Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences Department at SDSU.
Reference factsheet: https://extension.sdstate.edu/sites/default/files/2021-09/P-00221.pdf
Spring time brings green grass and spring turnout for many cattle producers in South Dakota. How we manage those calves at spring turn out can impact them for their lifetime.
During this episode of Cattle HQ, Robin Salverson uses her personal experiences in the branding pen to ask Addie Womack and Dr. Russ Daly why BQA best management practices should be followed at spring turnout.
- How do springtime vaccinations set up calves for success?
- At what age do calves respond to vaccinations?
- Why does the location of injection impact the calf and the meat?
- How many bottles of modified live vaccines (MLV) be mixed up at one time?
- What happens if you draw up the wrong vaccine into the syringe?
- How should intranasal vaccines be administered?
- Plus more will be answered during this episode.
Addie Womack is the SDSU Extension Livestock Production and Stewardship Field Specialist and the SD BQA Coordinator. Dr. Russ Daly is the Extension Veterinarian and Professor in the Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences Department at SDSU.
In this episode of Cattle HQ, Madison Kovarna sits down with her colleagues from SDSU Kaylee Wheeler, an Extension Range Field Specialist, and Dr. Krista Ehlert, an Assistant Professor and Extension Range Specialist.
While some parts of the state are picking up some moisture, many of us are still behind on moisture levels. The grass may be greening up and beginning to grow, but that doesn’t mean we can return to business as usual with our grazing plans. During this episode, Kaylee and Krista will share their insights on grazing management strategies and the importance of early spring moisture for the success of this grazing season. We also discussed resources available at extension.sdstate.edu for anyone to access to learn more about rangeland management during this uncertain time.
In this episode of Cattle HQ, Madison Kovarna finishes the conversation with Charlie Totton and Courtney Tyrrell from Totton Angus near Chamberlain, SD about the management strategies happening on the ranch.
Totton Angus focuses on breeding and maintaining a herd of moderate framed cows who utilize feed and their natural resources well. In this process, they have incorporated swath grazing and fence line weaning into their management equation. Additionally, the family has some interesting projects on the horizon from potentially hosting a South Dakota bird tour to conducting a prescribed burn. Tune in for words of wisdom from both Charlie and Courtney in the second part of Behind the Herd with Totton Angus.
In this episode of Cattle HQ, Madison Kovarna sits down at the dinner table with Charlie Totton and Courtney Tyrrell from Totton Angus near Chamberlain, SD to chat about the management strategies happening on the ranch.
Totton Angus focuses on breeding and maintaining a herd of moderate framed cows who utilize feed and their natural resources well. In this process, they have incorporated swath grazing and fence line weaning into their management equation. Additionally, the family has some interesting ways of utilizing cut cedar trees for their herd. There is a lot to ruminate on from the first half of the conversation with Charlie and Courtney. This conversation will be continued in the next episode of Cattle HQ.
The Wilson family has been focused on having an elite cowherd since 1888 and the tradition continues with Jaclyn Wilson, the 5th generation on the Wilson Flying Diamond Ranch. The ranch located on the western edge of the Sandhills of Nebraska has been using artificial insemination (AI) for over 30 years to help accomplish their goals. During this episode of Cattle HQ, listeners will hear Jaclyn share their story on the reasons why they have continued using AI as a reproductive tool including:
- The economic benefit of AI to the ranch.
- The improvement of overall reproductive management.
- Increased longevity of the cowherd.
- Incorporation of AI into their summer grazing management.
- How they have made using AI efficient on their operation.
During this episode of Cattle HQ, Robin Salverson and Madison Kovarna explore the importance of Vitamin A to the cowherd, including the newborn calf from Dr. Hannah Speer.
- How to build liver storage of vitamin A in the cow’s diet.
- How to build vitamin A in the colostrum.
- How vitamin A is transferred to the newborn calf.
- How vitamin A is regulated in the cow.
Dr. Hannah Speer is an assistant professor with Montana State University.
SDSU Kaylee Wheeler, an Extension Range Field Specialist, and Dr. Krista Ehlert, an Assistant Professor and Extension Range Specialist.
Mother Nature’s facuet seemingly turned off in the fall of 2024 for a majority of South Dakota. Moisture has not been falling even as temperatures drop, and winter settles in across the state. Many producers are looking out over pastureland with extremely limited snow cover and low soil moisture. What does this mean for grazing this spring? During this episode, Kaylee and Krista will share their thoughts about planning ahead for the 2025 grazing season. Topics discussed include monitoring weather through the SD Mesonet system, questions to ask yourself when looking ahead, the value of snow cover for grassland plants, and so much more. It is never too early to start crafting a grazing plan!
In this episode of Cattle HQ, Madison Kovarna finishes the conversation with Pete Bauman, a Natural Resources and Wildlife Field Specialist, from SDSU Extension and Wayne Vincent from Common Sense Solar.
Pete and Wayne’s passion for water quality and developing alternative water sources shines in this episode. Water systems are not a one-size-fits-all and have many pieces that fit into the puzzle. In this second half of the alternative water source conversation, the trio dives deeper into water supply questions, working with above and in-ground piping, freezing and thawing concerns and more.
In this episode of Cattle HQ, Madison Kovarna sits down with Pete Bauman, a SDSU Extension Natural Resources and Wildlife Field Specialist, and Wayne Vincent from Common Sense Solar.
Water is the center point in being successful in any beef operation. This nutrient is vital for cattle survival and for these animals to reach production goals we set for them. During this episode, this trio will start a conversation on alternative watering systems. They will discuss Wayne and Pete’s passion in pushing the innovation limits of water systems, questions that Wayne commonly asks when designing systems, and the importance of providing high quality water to your livestock. This conversation will be continued in the next episode of Cattle HQ.
In this episode of Cattle HQ, Madison Kovarna sits down with Addie Womack, a Livestock Production and Stewardship Field Specialist, from SDSU Extension. Addie also is South Dakota’s Beef Quality Assurance, BQA, coordinator.
During this episode, we will discuss all things BQA and programs that Addie is working on developing in her position. Beef quality assurance certification can be required for cattle producers for a variety of reasons, but becoming certified is painless and easy. In-person trainings are available across South Dakota for producers to attend to gain their 3-year BQA certification. Reach out to Addie if you have any questions about BQA or livestock production/stewardship practices.
In this episode of Cattle HQ, Madison Kovarna sits down with Heather Gessner from SDSU Extension. Heather is a Livestock Business Management Field Specialist. She primarily works with farm and ranch families on farm management issues including but not limited to: livestock budgets and marketing, risk management, estate planning, and farm transitions and whole farm business planning.
Proper management of cull cows is paramount to fully utilizing this source of income on an operation. Madison and Heather discuss the seasonality of the cull cow market, yellow versus white fat, and management choices or thoughts when it comes to cull cows.
In this episode of Cattle HQ, Madison Kovarna sits down with Anna Tvedt, a Nutrition Field Specialist, from SDSU Extension and Dr. Mendel Miller, the South Dakota Assistant State Veterinarian.
During this episode, this trio will discuss a program named Beef to School which is a spin off the Farm to School national program. Many local South Dakota schools are serving South Dakota raised beef in their lunchrooms, but how can producers become involved? How can we increase the number of schools serving local beef? Anna speaks to the Beef to School program while Dr. Miller brings in important thoughts about inspection and locker considerations.
On this episode of Cattle HQ, Addie Womack chats with Andrea Bjornestad from SDSU Extension to discuss mental health in the agriculture field. Andrea is an Associate Professor and the SDSU Extension Mental Health Specialist based on campus in Brookings.
In this episode the topics listed below were part of the discussion:
- Stressors in the agriculture industry
- Figuring out what healthy coping mechanisms work for you
- Opening the conversation and available resources
- Finally remembering the joys that come with working in production agriculture
For more information on the topics we talk about in this episode, contact Andrea.
During this episode of Cattle HQ, Madison Kovarna sits down with Heather Gessner, SDSU Extension Livestock Business Management Field Specialist. Heather primarily works with farm and ranch families on farm management issues including but not limited to: livestock budgets and marketing, risk management, estate planning, and farm transitions and whole farm business planning.
Combines have been hard at work in the fields, leaving behind fields of corn residue. Producers can utilize these leftovers as a feed source for their cattle and livestock as the weather cools down. Heather and Madison discuss considerations for grazing corn residue, baling corn stalks, water sources, and rental agreements in this episode.
During this episode of CattleHQ, Robin Salverson and Madison Kovarna sit down with cattle producer, Levi Swanson will talk about his experience with extending the grazing season.
- Learn more about strip grazing corn stalks.
- Learn what motivated Levi to change his management.
- Learn what is in the future for Levi.
During this episode of CattleHQ, Madison Kovarna sits down with Heather Gessner from SDSU Extension.
In this episode the topics listed below were part of the discussion:
- Estate planning for both the young and old
- Conversations that need to occur
- Sustaining the Legacy
Heather has dedicated much of her career to developing a program named Sustaining the Legacy. The locations for this series of programs include Rapid City, Pierre, Watertown, Aberdeen, and Mitchell. Registration for each series of classes closes two weeks prior to the first session. Registration links can be found on the events page on the SDSU Extension website. Starting dates for each location are listed below.
- Rapid City – November 12, 19, and 26, 2024
- Pierre – December 3, 10, and 1, 2024
- Watertown – January 7, 14, and 21, 2025
- Aberdeen – February 4, 11, and 18, 2025
- Mitchell – March 11, 18, and 25, 2025
For further information on the topics discussed in this episode or for a more in-depth explanation about Sustaining the Legacy, contact Heather Gessner.
Heather Gessner
SDSU Extension Livestock Business Management Field Specialist
Heather.Gessner@sdstate.edu
During this episode of Cattle HQ, Madison Kovarna sits down with Kaylee Wheeler from South Dakota State University Extension and Rae Powers from the Xerces Society to discuss native forbs and diversity on South Dakota rangelands.
Kaylee Wheeler is a Range Field Specialist with SDSU Extension based in the Pierre Regional Center and has a deep passion for South Dakota rangeland and grazing livestock systems. Rae Powers is a Pollinator Conservation Specialist with the Xerces Society and an NRCS Partner Biologist. She works with landowners to create pollinator habitats and focuses on the function and diversity of mixed-grass prairies.
In this episode the topics listed below were part of the discussion:
- Xerces Society’s role in early understanding of nutritional values of rangeland plants
- Results from native plant studies for livestock nutrition on the landscape
- Diversity in rangeland plant communities
For further information on information discussed in this episode or for a more in-depth explanation of mentioned research project results, contact Kaylee or Rae.
Kaylee Wheeler
SDSU Extension Range Field Specialist
Kaylee.Wheeler@sdstate.edu
RaeAnn Powers
Pollinator Conservation Specialist
NRCS Partner Biologist
Nebraska and South Dakota
raeann.powers@xerces.org
During this episode of Cattle HQ, Robin Salverson learns from Dr. Rebecca Poole about the cutting edge research around the uterine microbiome and the potential impact on fertility. Join us during this episode to learn more about:
- What is a microbiome?
- Current and future uterine microbiome research and impact on fertility.
- How do the tools we have on farm/ranch (i.e. estrous synchronization) potentially impact uterine biome?
Dr. Rebecca Poole is an assistant professor with Texas A&M focusing her research around the long-term goal of optimizing fertility in livestock.
In this episode of Cattle HQ, Madison Kovarna sits down with Kaylee Wheeler from South Dakota State University Extension to discuss research efforts focused around native forbs on South Dakota rangelands.
Kaylee Wheeler is a Range Field Specialist with SDSU Extension based in the Pierre Regional Center and has a deep passion for South Dakota rangeland and grazing livestock system. Wheeler, SDSU Extension staff, and industry partners are working on a multi-organizational research project that aims to understand nutritional values of native forbs on South Dakota rangelands.
In this episode Kaylee and Madison covered:
- What is this native forb research project?
- Why is this research being conducted?
- Importance of native forbs to the landscape and livestock
At the young age of 12, Drew Lakamp was a Doctor of Cow Genetics using genetics to compete in the show ring. After years of breeding cattle to win the show ring, attending college and working for industry, Drew is back in academia earning his PhD from the University of Nebraska to achieve his goal of being Dr. Drew Lakamp.
This episode of Cattle HQ was inspired by the article “Magic of metagenomics wows judges at BIF Shark Tank competition” written by Connie Sieh Groop for Tri-State Livestock News. Drew was crowned the winner of the 2024 Beef Improvement Federation (BIF) Shark Tank competition with his idea of using metagenomics as another tool to aid in selection of cattle.
During this episode of Cattle HQ, listeners will learn:
- What does metagenomics mean?
- How could metagenomics be used in the beef industry
- The future of using metagenomics as a selection tool.
- Current research using metagenomics to understand pink eye.
In this episode of Cattle HQ, Madison Kovarna sits down with Dr. Erin DeHaan and Dr. Krista Ehlert from South Dakota State University Extension to discuss the BeefSD program.
Dr. DeHaan is one of SDSU Extension’s Beef Specialists and is an assistant professor in the Department of Animal Science. She serves as a resource on beef production with a diverse background from meat science to cattle nutrition. Dr. Ehlert is SDSU Extension’s range specialist and is an assistant professor at SDSU in the Department of Natural Resource Management. Her expertise is in rangeland ecology and management, and she enjoys helping producers adopt conservation practices. Both are based out of the SDSU West River Research and Extension Center.
The BeefSD program is accepting applications for Class 7 with applications being due August 26th, 2024. Topics covered in this episode include:
- What is BeefSD
- Registration and Fees
- What Erin and Krista are most excited for this class
During this episode of Cattle HQ, Robin Salverson and Sydni Borders, talked with Dr. Ty Lawrence from West Texas A&M about the issue of liver abscesses in the beef industry observed during the 2022 Beef Quality Audit. Join us during this episode to learn more about:
- What factors cause liver abscesses.
- What are the production and economic impacts of abscesses to the beef industry.
- How to limit the number abscesses detected.
Sydni Borders is a PhD student at SDSU and was the lead research student during the 2022 Beef Quality Audit.
In this episode of Cattle HQ, Robin Salverson, SDSU Extension Cow Calf Field Specialist, explored the findings of the National Beef Quality Assurance Audit with Sydni Borders. Sydni was the Lead Research Student during the 2022 audit and a PhD student at SDSU. Listen to learn more about:
- What the National Beef Quality Audit is.
- Why all segments of the beef industry should be aware audit and how it impacts the beef industry.
- How the audit was conducted.
- Highlights of the 2022 Beef Quality Audit.
To learn more about the National Beef Quality Audit, visit https://www.bqa.org/resources/national-beef-quality-audits
To learn more about the South Dakota Beef Quality Assurance Program, contact SD BQA Coordinator: Addie Womack (addie.womack@sdstate.edu).
In this episode of Cattle HQ, Madison Kovarna sits down with Dr. Russ Daly from South Dakota State University Extension. Dr. Daly shares his expertise on herd health.
Dr. Russ Daly is the SDSU Extension’s veterinarian and the South Dakota’s public health veterinarian and is based out of Brookings, SD. He serves as a resource on animal health issues for not only other veterinarians but also industry allies, members, and producers. Herd health plans, how to handle introducing new animals, diseases to be on the lookout for, and vaccination effectiveness are topics of discussion for this episode.
This week on Cattle HQ, Madison Kovarna sits down with Dr. Darren Clabo fromSouth Dakota School of Mines and Technology. Dr. Clabo shares his expertise on weather and fire across South Dakota.
Dr. Darren Clabo is the South Dakota State Fire Meteorologist and an Associate Professor of Practice at South Dakota Mines in Rapid City. He is fascinated by all things related to weather and climate, especially if those relationships involve wildfire. Listen to learn more about the wildfire in South Dakota, weather and fire outlooks, El Niño and La Niña weather patterns, and weather resources available.
This week on Cattle HQ, Robin Salverson, SDSU Extension Cow Calf Field Specialist, and Kiernan Brandt former Cow Calf Field Specialist, explored the human side of the Padlock Ranch with Dr. Trey Patterson, CEO. Listen to learn more about:
- The 5 Elements of Purpose for their employees
- Why humans are not assets, but individual human beings.
- What makes a good boss/leader?
In this episode of Cattle HQ, Kiernan Brandt sits down with Craig Bieber and Jake Harms from Bieber Red Angus in Leola, SD. After touring the ranch and watching the guy’s photograph sale bulls, take a deep dive into all things red angus, what’s new at one of the premier purebred operations in the country, and most importantly what it takes to attract and keep top-quality employees.
Finding good help has never been simple, and it’s not getting any easier. Hear firsthand how Craig and his team are taking a hands-on approach to ensuring the success and wellbeing of their employees, and how it’s the little things that sometimes have the largest impact.
For more information and resources, visit the SDSU Extension web page.
As the spring and summer seasons progress, decision will need to be made in regards to planting and harvest of annual forages and hay for winter feed.
During this episode of Cattle HQ, Robin Salverson and Olivia Amundson, talked with Drew Gaugler and Doug Seick, producers that have incorporated alternative winter-feeding strategies into their operations. Listen to learn more about:
- Their experiences with swath grazing and bale grazing.
- How to incorporate standing forages (i.e. corn) into a winter feeding strategy.
- Dos and Don’t to consider when incorporating alternative feeding strategies.
For more information and resources, visit the SDSU Extension web page.
During this episode of Cattle HQ, Robin Salverson, Kiernan Brandt and Olivia Amundson, continue their conversation with Dr. Tom Geary, Animal Scientist at Fort Keogh Livestock and Range Research Laboratory in Miles City, Montana. Listen to learn more about:
- Research at Fort Keogh focused on identifying genetic markers of more fertile bulls.
- How trace minerals influence bull fertility.
Please visit the SDSU Extension page for more information and resources
During this episode of Cattle HQ, Robin Salverson, Kiernan Brandt and Olivia Amundson, talked with Dr. Tom Geary, Animal Scientist at Fort Keogh Livestock and Range Research Laboratory in Miles City, Montana related to factors influencing the reproductive success of the herd. Join us during this episode to learn more about:
- How synchronization could be influencing conception rates related to follicle size and ovulation.
- The impact of pre- and post breeding nutrition on reproduction in heifers.
- What plants produce phytoestrogens and how do they impact reproduction.
Please visit the SDSU Extension page for more information and resources
In this episode of Cattle HQ, join Kiernan Brandt and Olivia Amundson, SDSU Extension Cow/Calf Field Specialists as they sit down to talk with Dr. Jessica Drum, SDSU Assistant Professor in Beef Reproductive Physiology about comparing embryo transfer with artificial insemination.
On today’s episode:
- Direction of Dr. Drum’s research as she begins her position at SDSU
- Benefits of embryo transfer in a commercial cow/calf operation
- Can the same genetic progress be made as quickly through artificial insemination?
- Revenue options when incorporating embryo transfer
- Benefits and limitations with embryo transfer
- Example of a small operation utilizing embryo transfer
- How in vitro and in vivo embryo’s affect conception and gene expression
Please visit the SDSU Extension page for more information and resources
In this episode of Cattle HQ, join Kiernan Brandt, Robin Salverson, and Olivia Amundson, SDSU Extension Cow/Calf Field Specialists as they talk with Dr. Bob Cushman, Research Physiologist at the US Meat Animal Research Center in Clay Center, NE on the bovine uterine clock.
On today’s episode:
- Introduction of Dr. Cushman and what he spends his research working on
- Calving date on cow longevity with SDSU and MARC
- Effect of ovarian reserve on fertility
- Thoughts on waiting until a heifer is two years old before breeding her
- The estrous cycle and uterine clock
- What is the uterine clock?
- How to keep the uterine clock in check?
- Management considerations to influencing the uterine clock
- Split timed-artificial insemination and correlation on the uterine clock
- Bull effect on the estrous cycle
- Repeat breeders study
Please visit the SDSU Extension page for more information.
In this episode of Cattle HQ, join Kiernan Brandt and Olivia Amundson, SDSU Extension Cow/Calf Field Specialists as they talk with Heather Gessner, SDSU Extension Livestock Business Management Field Specialist about different management strategies for cull cows.
On today’s episode:
- Seasonal considerations when considering to sell cull cows
- Utilizing feed resources on a cull cow and when should that cull cow be sold and when does it make sense to keep and feed that cow
- Will the demand for cull cows remain
- Save the feed inventory by appropriately culling cows
- Know your feed inventory (winter and summer) and what that means when maintaining a cull cow
- Testing your feed
Please visit the SDSU Extension page for more information and resources.
In this episode of Cattle HQ, join Kiernan Brandt and Olivia Amundson, SDSU Extension Cow/Calf Field Specialists as they talk with Heather Gessner, SDSU Extension Livestock Business Management Field Specialists about the importance of preparing an estate or transition plan.
On today’s episode:
- How does one move forward to put together an estate or transition plan
- What is probate and how is it used
- How to avoid family conflict by setting up an estate or transition plan
- Transition plans that don’t involve inheritance to direct family
- Resources and upcoming programs in estate and transition planning
Please visit the SDSU Extension page for more information and resources
During this episode of Cattle HQ, Olivia Amundson and Robin Salverson, caught up with Dan Forgey with Cronin Farms near Gettysburg, SD. Listen to learn more about:
- How Dan selects his cover crop species.
- How they have used cover crops as a grazing opportunity.
- Considerations when including cover crops into the operation.
Suggested reading by Dan Forgey: Managing Cover Crop Profitably, Third Edition. Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education.
During this episode of Cattle HQ, Olivia Amundson and Kiernan Brandt sit down with Dr. Halden Clark of the Great Plains Veterinarian Education Center in Clay Center, Nebraska to discuss the impact that early pregnancy detection has on your herd. Listen to learn more about:
- What defines an early pregnancy detection
- How can early pregnancy detection be advantageous
- Incidence of embryonic loss
- Reasons producers may opt to not pregnancy detect and strategies to get around labor and facilities
- Methods other than palpation and ultrasound to pregnancy detect
Please visit the SDSU Extension page for more information and resources
In this episode of Cattle HQ, Cow/Calf Field Specialist Adele Harty is joined by Sheep Field Specialist Jaelyn Quintana, Meat Specialist Dr. Christina Bakker and Heather Maude, a rancher from Scenic, to give listeners an opportunity to gain a broader understanding of the in’s and out’s of direct to consumer marketing.
Please visit the SDSU Extension page for more information and resources
In this episode of Cattle HQ, Kiernan Brandt and Olivia Amundson, SDSU Extension Cow/Calf Field Specialists, discuss organic farming with a Madison, SD organic farmer, Aaron Johnson. During the episode we discuss:
- How the Johnson family begin their organic farming venture
- Crop rotation in the organic operation
- Utilization of fertilizer
- Environmental benefits of organic farming
- National organizations focusing on organic farming
- Marketing options with organic farming and prices received for grain products
Please visit the SDSU Extension page for more information and resources
During this special Beef Day Episode of Cattle HQ, Robin Salverson, talked with Dr. Jamie Brennan, SDSU Extension Livestock Grazing Specialist. Listen to learn more about:
- Livestock precision technology researched on extensive rangelands including virtual fencing, remote sensing, smart feeders and scales.
- The future of livestock precision technology on the farm and ranch.
- The opportunities and challenges with the technology.
- New opportunities for students in the field of livestock precision technology.
A written SDSU Extension Beef Day Proceedings is available, at https://openprairie.sdstate.edu/sd_beefday_2022/21/ to learn more about the challenges and opportunities with precision management on extensive rangelands.
Please visit the SDSU Extension page for more information and resources
On today’s episode of Cattle HQ, Cow/Calf Field Specialists, Olivia Amundson and Kiernan Brandt sits down with Patrick Wagner, SDSU Extension Entomology Field Specialist and Joseph Armstrong, University of Minnesota Extension Cattle Production Systems specialist to talk about pest and parasite management in livestock, more specifically dealing with flies.
Please visit the SDSU Extension page for more information and resources
On today’s episode of Cattle HQ, Cow/Calf Field Specialist, Kiernan Brandt sits down with Dr. Hector Menendez of South Dakota State University and Dr. Benjamin Turner of Texas A&M Kingsville to talk a systems approach to early weaning first calf heifers.
On today’s episode:
- What is systems thinking and why is it important
- How does early weaning first calf heifers impact a vertically integrated beef production system
- What are the impacts/implications of early weaning for the cow/calf producer
- How does early weaning impact those first calf heifers
Please visit the SDSU Extension page for more information and resources
On today’s episode, SDSU Extension Cow/Calf Field Specialists Adele Harty and Olivia Amundson discuss current research looking at factors affecting value of calves sold through South Dakota sale barns.
On today’s episode:
- Discussion and background on the project
- Factors that influenced price received for calves sold at the sale barn
- Management practices to increase value of calves
Please visit the SDSU Extension page for more information and resources
On today’s episode, cow/calf field specialist, Olivia Amundson sits down with Dr. Julie Walker and Dr. Saulo Zoca to discuss some of the current reproductive research that has been going on at SDSU.
On today’s episode:
- A multi-year, multi-producer research project looking at the benefits of using estrous synchronization with natural service and AI as well as sexed semen
- What’s going on in the world of bovine bull research
- What new technologies are out there in regards to pregnancy detection in cattle
Please visit the SDSU Extension page for more information and resources.
During this episode of Cattle HQ, Olivia Amundson and Robin Salverson, talked with Dr. Bleaux Johnson, DVM with West River Health Services and rancher. Listen to learn more about:
- Why should you consider using estrous synchronization with natural service
- What protocols are recommended with natural service
- How many bulls should be used.
- Is estrous synchronization a silver bullet for reproductive success?
Please visit the SDSU Extension page for more information and resources.
This week on Cattle HQ, Kiernan Brandt, SDSU Extension Cow/Calf Field Specialist and Olivia Amundson, SDSU Extension Cow/Calf Field Specialist continue the conversation with Dr. George Perry of Texas A&M and John Moes of Moes Feedlot LLC.
During this episode, we discuss research being done on the trending 7&7 estrous synchronization protocol, bull selection and current research, as well as how many times can a CIDR be utilized.
Please visit the SDSU Extension page for more information and resources.
During this bonus episode of Cattle HQ, Olivia Amundson and Robin Salverson, caught up with Dr. Bleaux Johnson, DVM with West River Health Services. Listen to learn more about:
- The impact of the drought condition on animal health and natural resources
- What issues they have seen in their clinic during calving and why?
- What concerns to be aware of this spring and summer.
Please visit the podcast’s SDSU Extension Page for more information and resources discussed in the podcast.
This week on Cattle HQ, Olivia Amundson and Kiernan Brandt discuss:
- Factors to consider when preparing to utilize an estrous synchronization protocol during the breeding season
- Discussions on the significance of Extension/producer relationships on applied beef reproduction research and how it benefits the cow/calf industry.
Please visit the podcast’s SDSU Extension Page for more information and resources discussed in the podcast.
This week on Cattle HQ, Kiernan Brandt and Robin Salverson, will continue the conversation with Dr. Trey Patterson, CEO of the Padlock Ranch. Listen to learn more about:
- How the Padlock Ranch allocates feed resources to the herd.
- How they develop their heifers to capture value
- The Importance of Systems Thinking
Please visit the podcast's SDSU Extension page for more information and resources like transcripts.
This week on Cattle HQ, Kiernan Brandt and Robin Salverson, explore the tradition and innovation of the Padlock Ranch with Dr. Trey Patterson, CEO.
Listen to learn more about:
• The Legacy of the Padlock Ranch.
• How the Padlock Ranch markets cull cows.
• How they have changed their calving season to match their environment and marketing.
Please visit the podcast's SDSU Extension page for more information and resources like transcripts.
In this episode of Cattle HQ, Adele Harty, SDSU Extension Cow/Calf Field Specialist and Matt Diersen, SDSU Extension Risk/Business Management Specialist discuss another quarterly update to go over the recent release of the 2022 Cattle Inventory update and what it means for the cattle industry on a state level and a national level.
Please visit the podcast's SDSU Extension page for more information and resources like transcripts.
In this episode of Cattle HQ, Olivia Amundson and Kiernan Brandt, SDSU Extension Cow/Calf Field Specialists, continue their discussion of bovine congestive heart failure and health alongside Brian Vander Ley, University of Nebraska Veterinary Epidemiology Field Specialist and Interim Director of the Great Plains Veterinary Educational Center.
Please visit the podcast's SDSU Extension page for more information and resources like transcripts.
In this episode of Cattle HQ, join Robin Salverson, SDSU Extension Cow/Calf Field Specialist and Adele Hardy, SDSU Extension Cow/Calf Field Specialist, as they interview Russ Daly, SDSU Extension Veterinarian and State Public Health Veterinarian on preparing for calving season and the science related to gestation in cattle.
Please visit the podcast's SDSU Extension page for more information and resources like transcripts.
In this episode of Cattle HQ, Olivia Amundson and Kiernan Brandt, SDSU Extension Cow/Calf Field Specialists, discuss bovine congestive heart failure and health alongside Brian Vander Ley, University of Nebraska Veterinary Epidemiology Field Specialist and Interim Director of the Great Plains Veterinary Educational Center.
Please visit the podcast's SDSU Extension page for more information and resources like transcripts.
In this episode of Cattle HQ, Olivia Amundson and Kiernan Brandt, SDSU Extension Cow/Calf Field Specialists, discuss calving distribution, cattle breeding, and herd health alongside Joe Armstrong, the University of Minnesota (UMN) Extension's Cattle Production Assistant Extension Educator.
Please visit the podcast's SDSU Extension page for more information and resources like transcripts.
In this episode of Cattle HQ, Olivia Amundson and Kiernan Brandt, SDSU Extension Cow/Calf Field Specialists, discuss winter bull management alongside Andrew Snyder, a fourth generation beef farmer, and Dr. Julie Walker, SDSU Extension Beef Specialist.
Please visit the podcast's SDSU Extension page for more information and resources like transcripts.
In this episode of Cattle HQ, Adele Harty, Cow/Calf Field Specialist, discusses the applications of net wrap alongside Scott Hamilton from Hamilton Farms in Hitchcock, South Dakota and Dr. Jim Stangle from Golden Veterinary Services in Milesville, South Dakota.
Please visit the podcast's SDSU Extension page for more information and resources like transcripts.
In this episode join Kiernan Brandt and Olivia Amundson, SDSU Extension Cow/Calf Field Specialists as they talk with Matt Dierson, SDSU Extension Risk/Business Management Specialist about Fall cattle markets and current market values. Please visit the podcast's SDSU Extension page for more information and resources like transcripts.
In this episode join Olivia Amundson and Kiernan Brandt, SDSU Extension Cow/Calf Field specialists, as they discuss packing and managing silage with Warren Rusche, SDSU Extension Beef Feedlot Management Associate.
Please visit the podcast's SDSU Extension page for more information and resources like transcripts.
In this episode Adele Harty, SDSU Extension Cow/Calf Field Specialist, talks with various cow/calf producers about the subject of nitrate testing feeds, and how that process is used in their day to day operations.
Visit the podcast's SDSU Extension page for more information and resources like transcripts.
Related Resource
Frequently Asked Questions
Forage Nitrate Toxicity in Ruminant Livestock: https://extension.sdstate.edu/frequently-asked-questions-forage-nitrate-toxicity-ruminant-livestock