Running a small beef herd

"Running a Small Beef Herd provides an introduction to beef production for those about to enter the industry and is an ongoing reference for anyone managing a small herd of beef cattle on their property. Fundamental considerations such as the economics of beef production and the selection of a suitable beef enterprise to match a particular property and level of experience are covered. It considers various systems suitable for a small beef operation: steer fattening, cow and calf systems, foster calves and multiple suckling, and lot feeding. It offers practical advice on buying cattle, marketing methods for particular types of cattle and specifications for markets such as domestic supermarket, butcher shops and hotels, Japan, Korea and US manufacturing. Cattle handling and carrying out necessary husbandry practices such as castration and vaccination, herd health, reproductive management, nutrition, carrying capacity, supplementary feeding through normal feed shortages or drought are also explored. Facilities such as fences, yards and water supply, which have a large impact on ease of management, are discussed in detail. Various breeds of cattle including the suitability of newer breeds such as lowlines are discussed and comparative ratings of economic traits are given. The book includes a calendar of operations to assist with timing and coordination of all the activities associated with breeding and raising cattle in southern Australia. This new edition completely updates the financial and marketing information and expands on the systems of beef production, breeds, breed management, stock handling, supplementary feeding and drought management. It updates and expands on the NLIS (ear tagging) requirements, and includes a chapter on the importance of soil health and fertility."--Provided by publisher.

Includes index.