The Angus Journal® is a monthly magazine known for in-depth coverage of American Angus Association® programs and services; the Angus business; herd management; and advertising reflecting genetics and herd philosophies.
Issue link: http://angusjournal.epubxp.com/i/529629
lactating cows are especially sensitive because milk is 85% water. Summer can be a time focus shifts from cow-herd management to hay harvest and row-crop production. Taking time to develop a fly-control program and a shade- based pasture management system can pay dividends by minimizing production losses. Southern Great Plains by David Lalman, Oklahoma State University, david.lalman@okstate.edu Spring-calving herds Breeding bulls should be removed from the cow herd after 60-90 days. If you are in a region where May and June precipitation was abundant, you may need to consult your veterinarian regarding the potential value of deworming nursing calves during mid- to late summer. Response to the anthelmintic generally increases in wet years, although response will vary substantially depending on other factors, such as grazing intensity and previous parasite management. Fall-calving herds Wean fall-born calves before the middle of July to allow cows time to regain body condition before calving again. At weaning, vaccinate calves according to your veterinarian's recommendations, deworm calves, preg-check cows and heifers, weigh and estimate condition scores of cows, and weigh calves. Transfer records for your whole herd to the American Angus Association. A small package of high-protein supplement, such as recommended in the Oklahoma Gold program, can facilitate around a 2-lb. ADG on weaned heifers and bull calves grazing abundant native pastures during July, August and September. A strategic deworming program and the inclusion of a feed additive such as Bovatec,® Rumensin® or chlortetracycline are important features in this program. General comments and recommendations As of this writing, soil moisture conditions have improved throughout the region, with rain delaying or prohibiting harvest of cool-season annual forage for hay. Livestock water sources in the East are overflowing, while they are slowly recovering in the West. Harvest of warm-season perennial forage species for hay may be delayed once again this year. As usual, be prepared to test harvested forage, whether purchased or raised, so that you can determine the true value and appropriate application in a winter July 2015 n ANGUSJournal n 75 CONTINUED ON PAGE 76