February 4, 2025

• The total number of cattle and calves in the U.S. was 86.7 million head as of January 1. That was down 1% year-over-year, making it the sixth-consecutive year of decline, according to USDA’s Cattle report released last week.

• The same report estimated that dairy heifer inventories remain tight at 3.9 million head, which is the lowest recorded inventory since 1978.

• Do you know your costs of forage production? Use this calculator to estimate what you need to earn to make a profit.

• Follow these timely tips on frost seeding and soil fertility.

• Try these strategies to maintain a healthy rumen environment during the hay feeding season.