The fast approaching winter has many ranchers worried about how they will make it through without having to sell out. The winter weather combined with the current drought conditions will make for a disastrous season on most ranches. The farmers almanac calls for a mild winter with average moisture, giving some hope to the ranchers. A mild winter will make it easier to keep weight on cattle and horses and allowing them to graze a small amount on what grass is left will also help.
Calves are being sold earlier than usual this year to sustain grass and hay. It is hard to make the decision on the best time to sell because calves that weigh more will bring more equating more money to buy hay. Selling calves earlier will keep more grass for the cows throughout the winter. This week was the time many chose to sell calves, which requires a lot of time and work into getting everything planned. The ranchers help each other with the day, and in return receive help when they sell calves.
I can definitely relate to this. My grandparents have to lease land to eat corn stocks for a couple months because of the hay shortage. They had to buy pretty much all the hay they do have.
ReplyDeleteWhat a hard call to make. What are some of the effects of selling so many calves for next year's planning?
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