This document provides guidance on how to determine a body condition score (BCS) for beef cows. Body condition scores are excellent indicators of the nutritional status in beef cows. There is a strong link between the body condition of a cow and her reproductive performance- an important factor in the economics of a cow-calf operation.
This site provides a comprehensive inventory of the various domestic breeds of livestock including cattle, goats, horses, sheep, swine, poultry and other. The site includes photos, descriptions and history of each breed. The site has a search feature and also a regional feature to see breeds of livestock in a world region.
This site provides access to publications and other resources related to beef production in Minnesota including cow/calf management, feedlot management, pasture and forage management, beef animal health, nutrient management, dairy beef production, and organic and natural beef production. There is also a link on this page to “Home Study Courses” which are courses offered annually related to beef production.
Basic overview of pest management principles. Materials concentrate on assessing environmental risks of pest management alternatives.
(Time: 00:24:31) Information is presented on nitrogen management considerations for high profitability and low environmental risks; phosphorus management for high profitability and low environmental risks; phosphorus management practices; and soil and water conservation practices.
(Time: 00:26:25) Information is presented on soil sampling strategies and sample handling/testing procedures.
(Time: 00:24:38) Information is presented on negative effects of acidic soils; testing for soil pH; managing soil pH for alkaline soils; and, managing soil pH for acidic soils.
(Time: 00:23:38) Information is presented on specific micronutrients including boron, copper, iron, manganese, molybdenum, zinc and chloride; diagnosing micronutrient deficiencies; micronutrient fertilizer sources; and, a summary of practical recommendations for managing micronutrients.
(Time: 00:10:20) Information is presented on calcium and magnesium as essential nutrients; calcium and magnesium soil testing; and, calcium and magnesium sources and application.
(Time: 00:14:36) Information is presented on basic sulfur processes in the soil-plant system; testing for sulfur sufficiency; basis for sulfur fertilizer recommendations; and, sulfur fertilizer application.