A cow calf operation is a method of rearing beef cattle in which a permanent herd of cows is kept by a farmer or rancher to produce calves for later sale. Cow–calf operations are one of the key aspects of the beef industry in the United States and many other countries. [ 1 ]

Apr 6, 2020 · Cow-calf production is the first stage of the beef production process. An average of about 2.2 years elapses between the breeding of a beef cow or heifer to the time their offspring are ready for slaughter.

A calf (pl.: calves) is a young domestic cow or bull. Calves are reared to become adult cattle or are slaughtered for their meat, called veal , and their hide . The term calf is also used for some other species.

Feb 25, 2025 · Should you raise or buy replacement heifers? What does Census say about cattle on feed operations and sales for slaughter?

Apr 27, 2012 · Cow-calf operations are the backbone of the beef industry and are made up mostly of smaller operations that own anywhere from 10 to 100 cows. It’s considered a more conservative type of cattle operation, but there are still a lot of variables that affect its profitability.

In rail transport, a cow–calf (also cow and calf, or in the UK master and slave) is a set of diesel switcher locomotives. The set is usually a pair, though a few three-unit sets (with two calves, also known as herds) were built. A cow is equipped with a cab, and a calf is not.

Raising cattle for profit requires a detailed management plan that sets production goals and timelines days, weeks and even years in advance. These guidelines for health, nutrition and reproductive management will help beef cattle producers make critical decisions.

The cow-calf operation provides a number of benefits. There are a number of marketing opportunities with the cow-calf operation. You can sell can sell your calves at weaning time, you can retain ownership, keep them until yearling, sell them as yearlings.

When you interrupt a cow that is calving, she will prioritize her own life and stop calving. There are three stages to labor.

This page is a list of Cow-Calf related factsheets, links, resources and more. Take advantage and explore all the educational materials the Beef Extension Program has to offer!