Farm Help

Dehorning is not a new subject nor is it a new phase of veterinary medicine. However, in recent years, dehorning has taken on more importance and the potential of becoming a controversial practice in the future.

According to Dr. Tim O'Neill, owner of Country Veterinary Service, Inc., Farmington, Ark., there is no crystal ball available to predict if there will or will not be challenges with birthing before the process begins. Palpating daily before birth can be done, he warns this doesn’t always provide a sure prediction either.

The Private Land Services (PLS) Division of the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) is relatively new considering that the MDC celebrates their 75th anniversary this year. The Division was created in 2000, and from the beginning, they have been providing technical and financial assistance to rural Missouri landowners.

Management is a key element in the success of any business, including farming. A look at basic factors in farm management can pinpoint areas of management on your farm that may need attention.

A tough summer and fall are turning into a tough winter for Ozark ranchers, as tight and expensive feed supplies have left many cows in poor condition for rebreeding. Dr. Tom Troxel, University of Arkansas beef cattle specialist and associate Animal Science Department head, said the body condition on cattle is not as good as it has been in the past. “We’ve not had the quantity and the quality of hay that we’re used to having,” Troxel told Ozarks Farm & Neighbor. “So many cattle have been on an energy-deficient diet over this fall and early winter time.”

According to Dr. Tim O'Neill, owner of Country Veterinary Service, Inc., Farmington, Ark., there is no crystal ball available to predict if there will or will not be challenges with birthing before the process begins. Palpating daily before birth can be done, he warns this doesn’t always provide a sure prediction either.

The modern broiler, turkey and breeder are designed for growth and efficiency. When bacteria-filled water is used, we are asking the birds to delegate resources towards fighting infection causing a reduction in performance.

A well-managed pasture program can be the most economical way to provide forages to your livestock. However, careful planning and sound management are vital to optimize pasture utilization and animal performance. Knowing your animals, forages and soils is the key to developing a successful rotational grazing system on your farm.