Beef on Dairy
Beef-on-dairy crossbreeding has rapidly emerged as a strategic approach for dairy producers, allowing them to boost their farm’s profitability while advancing genetic progress within their herds. Explore how this growing trend can add value to your operation and position it for long-term success.
This boom in beef calf revenue has provided a lifeline for many dairy farmers amid milk side downturns. Cows that were once considered for slaughter due to low profitability now carry valuable calves, prompting farmers to optimize their asset cycles instead of simply offloading them.
We know the early life events of dairy replacement heifers have research-proven impacts on their later performance as adult dairy cows. Now, researchers are exploring how the development of young beef-cross calves influences their ultimate performance on the rail, with some surprising results.
By understanding the economic landscape, engaging with financial partners and exploring diverse revenue streams, dairy farmers can navigate the challenges ahead with greater confidence and resilience.
New data from four calf ranches highlight the dominance of respiratory disease and the year-round consistency of health challenges in beef-dairy cross calves.
This event is crafted to empower both producers and businesses with invaluable insights and connections that will propel their dairy ventures forward.
Beef-on-dairy practices are rapidly transforming the landscape of the dairy industry, proving that with a little innovation, even perceived limitations can be turned into lucrative opportunities.
Marshall shares how technology and collaboration can help beef and dairy producers raise more consistent, high-value cattle.
From volatile milk prices to the rise of beef-on-dairy, and from export dependence to uncertainty with China, producers and analysts agree: resilience and adaptation are more critical than ever.
Strategic growth in cow numbers, innovative revenue streams, and expanding export markets signify a promising future.
National Milk Producers Federation President Gregg Doud discusses record U.S. dairy processing investments, surging global protein demand, policy hurdles like labor and immigration reform, and what’s ahead for dairy trade with China.
The integration of beef and dairy is not just creating financial opportunities and by leveraging genetics, nutrition and innovative supply chain solutions, dairy producers are setting a precedent for valuable cross-industry collaboration.
Alternative revenue sources are becoming more and more common to help producers financially stay afloat. The goal moving forward is clear: striking a delicate balance that ensures longevity and relevance in an ever-changing industry.
Recent developments have shown just how rapidly perceptions can change, with the pricing gap between beef-on-dairy calves and their native counterparts narrowing remarkably.
Reported cattle prices continue to post new highs — making us all wonder how the market can get any better than it currently is.
The economic decisions involved in heifer management are not just about immediate costs. They are a long-term investment strategy that can determine the future productivity and profitability of a dairy farm. Choosing which heifers to keep, which to sell, and how to feed and care for them requires a deft balancing act. Factors such as genetics, health and market demand all play a role.
Genetic excellence is a cornerstone of Fir Ridge Holstein Farm’s success strategy.
As the dairy industry continues adapting to market demands, there is hope that current positive trends will benefit producers for the foreseeable future.
Full Circle Jerseys is strategically transitioning its 5,000-cow herd from straight Jerseys to Holstein x Jersey crossbreds.
At Brey Family Beef, success is rooted in more than sales. It’s about building connections, supporting the community and proudly sharing the story behind every cut of meat.
Dr. Taylor Engle of Four Star Veterinary Services shares how producers can improve calf health outcomes by rethinking everything from pre-birth to bunk.
In the heart of central California, Lumar Dairy stands as a dynamic example of how commitment to heritage and openness to change can coexist and thrive.
The dairy industry has witnessed a notable rise in the integration of beef within its realm, marking a significant shift that prompts us to ask, “When is high too high?”
As dairy producers increasingly use beef semen to capitalize on calf value, longer gestation lengths are straining pre-fresh pens, pushing the industry to rethink cow flow, facilities, and future genetics.
Beef-on-dairy crossbreds show clear advantages in feed efficiency and carcass performance, but Michigan State University research reveals current market premiums often exceed their true economic value.
It requires a mix of proactive management and strategic planning to thrive in this ever-evolving market landscape.
The focus remains on leveraging existing operations to find value beyond the milk check.
Dairy replacement heifers and beef-cross calves are fetching record-breaking prices this spring, with Holstein springers hitting $4,200 and beef-cross calves surpassing $1,600.
A sneak peak of Farm Journal’s leading-edge survey insights illustrates strategic solutions that generate renewed confidence, ensuring a promising path forward for the industry.
From tariffs and export markets to domestic demand and innovative production strategies, navigating this landscape requires astute attention to market signals and strategic planning.
Feeding dairy-beef cross steers a low-starch, forage-based diet early in life may be the secret to fewer liver abscesses, healthier rumens, and heavier carcasses without sacrificing performance.