Starting off 2012, as in most years, my thoughts turned to getting together my “stuff” from the year 2011 for the tax preparer. And, as in most years, my tendency was, to put it off to another day. As my wife’s motto says, “Never do today … [Read more...]

As you drive almost any highway, you currently see ranches for sale due to extreme persistent weather conditions and high production input costs. If you are interested in buying a ranch, now may be the time to start shopping. Purchasing a ranch … [Read more...]

The ranch situation analysis is re-examined each year as part of the process of updating the management plan for the following year. One of the primary parts of the situation analysis is human resources. Two questions are studied in human resources … [Read more...]

A situation analysis is the baseline from which you write your management plan. Stan Bevers, Texas AgriLife Extension Service, states that a baseline should establish the current status of the ranch and include the past year’s performance. It is … [Read more...]

This post is by Robert Fears. In today’s economy, a management plan is an essential tool for a cow-calf producer to use in maintaining profit. As most other business people have known for a considerable period, a plan is needed to guide management … [Read more...]

While keeping track of production records such as calving histories and medical records is certainly important, be sure the financial side of your ranch isn't being neglected or overlooked. Analyzing the business and management side of ranching can … [Read more...]

What a great recognition of the importance and future of ag! Jim Rogers, a billionaire investor in Alabama, says agriculture is where the future is. Though it's something we all know, it's nice to see agriculture recognized in the mainstream media … [Read more...]

As the end of the year is fast approaching, this can be a good time to evaluate your ranch's progress and begin setting goals for the new year. As conditions continue to remain tight in the cattle industry (but on the improving side), the focus of … [Read more...]

Interest in grass-fed beef continues to be on the rise as consumers want to know more about the origin of beef and are usually willing to pay a premium for this type of beef. In a recent article, 2 researchers at the US Department of Agriculture's … [Read more...]

The Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) program advocates responsible actions in cattle handling and vaccinations. There are many benefits to properly vaccinating cattle, including economic advantages. With fall vaccination season right around the corner, … [Read more...]