NASHVILLE, Tenn. (RFD-TV) — Weaning weights alone can be misleading when comparing cow performance, especially in herds with wide variation in mature cow size. That’s a key point highlighted by Kenny Burdine, livestock economist with the Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service, as producers review records and make culling decisions.
Larger cows often wean heavier calves, but they also cost more to maintain. Bigger cows consume more forage, hay, supplements, and minerals — and they often carry higher indirect costs tied to health, handling, transportation, and yardage. When culling decisions are based strictly on calf weaning weight, smaller-framed cows are more likely to be removed, gradually increasing average cow size and pushing herd costs higher over time.
Burdine’s analysis suggests producers should view productivity relative to cow size, not just raw calf pounds. In a budgeting exercise, he found that for every additional 100 pounds of mature cow weight, a cow needed to wean roughly 50 more pounds of calf just to stay economically competitive. That relationship shifts with cattle prices, but the principle remains consistent.
Tracking individual cow-calf performance helps identify which cows are truly earning their place.
While social media has labeled the possible event a “Godzilla El Niño,” experts say the intensity remains uncertain—but the signal for a stronger pattern is there.
April 10, 2026 01:47 PM
·
Rising diesel and energy costs are squeezing farmers and rural communities, increasing production expenses and raising concerns about consumer demand for beef even as U.S. meat exports regain the Australian market.
April 10, 2026 01:23 PM
·
Texas ranchers and lawmakers warn of renewed New World screwworm risks, highlighting prevention efforts, border concerns, and the role of sterile flies in protecting U.S. livestock.
April 10, 2026 11:19 AM
·
Farm Bureau economist Danny Munch discusses the USDA’s request for feedback on data and research, how such requests work, and what farmers should know about submitting comments before the Thursday, April 9 deadline.
April 09, 2026 03:39 PM
·
USDA Undersecretary Dr. Mindy Brashears provides more insight on the updated “Product of USA” label campaign and the USDA’s goals for both consumers and producers.
April 09, 2026 02:19 PM
·
Farm CPA Paul Neiffer joined us to break down the application process for Stages 1 and 2 of the USDA’s Supplemental Disaster Relief Program, and what farmers can expect as the deadline approaches.
April 09, 2026 01:59 PM
·
