Working Ranch Radio Show

The replacement heifers you keep and the bulls you buy today are building your herd for the next cattle cycle. So how can genomic testing help you make those decisions with more confidence? Today Dr. Kirk Ramsey and Dr. Kelsey Luebbe with Neogen join us to discuss practical uses for genomics in commercial cow-calf operations.  From selecting productive, longer-lasting females and identifying which bulls are doing their job to understanding the value your calves can carry into the feedlot. Plus, we look at the economics of testing and how to turn the results into better management decisions. #WorkingRanchRadio #Ranching #CattleGenetics #Genomics #CowCalf #ReplacementHeifers #BullSelection #CowLongevity #BeefCattle #Neogen #IgenityBeef

With replacement females costing what they do today, what’s another productive year worth from a cow already in your herd? University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension educators Randy Saner and Shannon Sand join us to explore when that extra year adds value—and when it doesn’t. From replacement costs and young cows leaving the herd too soon to feed expenses and the productivity of older cows, we look at the factors that help determine whether keeping her another year will pay. Link to: University of Nebraska-Lincoln Beef Cow Replacement Forecast 2026-2027 #WorkingRanchRadio #Ranching #BeefCattle #CowCalf #CowLongevity #ReplacementHeifers #HerdManagement #RanchProfitability #NebraskaExtension

Historically low cattle numbers are creating challenges throughout the beef industry, but what does that mean for the infrastructure needed to feed and process those cattle? Dr. Stephen Koontz, agricultural economist at Colorado State University, joins us to examine how reduced cattle supplies are affecting feedlot capacity, packing plant operations, and competition within the industry. We discuss the economic pressures facing both sectors, potential changes ahead, and whether the industry will need to adjust to a smaller cattle herd over the long term. Plus, what could these structural changes mean for cow-calf producers, and what should ranchers be considering as they make decisions for the future of their operations. #WorkingRanchRadioShow #CattleIndustry #CattleMarkets #CattleNumbers #CowCalfProducers #BeefIndustry #FeedlotCapacity #MeatPacking #CattleEconomics #Ranching #StephenKoontz #ColoradoStateUniversity

As the fall calf marketing season moves forward, where does the cattle market stand, and what should producers be considering? Bailey Ballou with Superior Livestock joins us to discuss current market fundamentals, feed costs, calf prices, and marketing strategies, including the value of weaning and vaccination programs. Then, Dr. Mitch Blanding with Zoetis discusses the importance of herd health, from protecting the developing fetus to preventing and managing bovine respiratory disease. Plus, Tim's Two Cents highlights Zoetis' Born of the Bond documentary and the importance of supporting rural veterinarians, and Don Day joins us with our weekly weather update. #WorkingRanchRadioShow #CattleMarket #SuperiorLivestock #Zoetis #CattleMarketing #CalfPrices #HerdHealth #BovineRespiratoryDisease #BeefCattle #Ranching #CowCalfProducers #BornOfTheBond #RuralVeterinarians #TimsTwoCents #DayWeather

Are the numbers and talking points we hear across the cattle business really telling us the whole story? This week, Chad Conard joins me to challenge some commonly repeated narratives—from the aging rancher and shrinking cow herd to beef production and imports—and look at the context behind the numbers. Plus, Cameron Cody with Harper Industries talks DewEze bale beds, feeding equipment and the Butler brand. #WorkingRanchRadioShow #CattleIndustry #BeefIndustry #Ranching #CattleProducers #DewEze