Fall Activities for the Cow Calf Herd: How-To & Why Tubs Work

Here are a few quick tips to ensure your success!

• Properly feeding the cow now will make sure she gets bred back in the next year.

• Sample your hay so you know the quality level based on crude protein level

• Keep the highest quality hay for calving season

• Use lower protein hay and crop residue like corn stalks for feeding pregnant non-lactating cows.  These lower quality forage will need some supplementation to be digested properly.

  
  

1.      Significance of body condition score (BCS)

a.      BCS of 5+ will become pregnant 90% of the time

b.      BCS of 4.5 and lower will get pregnant 75% of the time

c.      Hay and a protein tub are sufficient to increase BCS in 30 to 40 days.

d.      Supplemental energy feeds (grain) will be needed for more rapid weight gain

2.      Feeding protein tubs promotes healthy rumen function

a.      Sugars and protein in the tub feed the bacteria that digest forage fiber

b.      Trace minerals and vitamins support cow health and reproduction

3.      Preg Check cow and heifer

a.      It cost around $1000 per cow to keep her for 1 year

b.      Culls are worth approximately $1.40 per pound

c.      A 1250 pound cull is worth $1750

4.      Feeding Nelson Tubs will

a.      Help maintain BCS of cows by feeding the rumen

b.      Save time and money compared to daily grain feeding

c.      Provided a complete mineral package

Visit nelsontubs.com to find more information and a dealer near you.