Snow introduces a few seasons

Snow introduces a few seasons

For our family, the opening day of rifle hunting season means the cows are supposed to be home. This year we were a bit behind, lulled, just a bit, by the lovely fall weather. It had been cool but snow had stayed away until mid-November and it was still warm enough for the dugouts to […] Read more

cows eating hay in the snow

Snow can be an excellent water source for cattle

Eating snow is a learned behaviour which may take a few days for livestock to adjust

For eons, wild animals in Canada especially the large herbivores have relied on snow as their primary water source through the winter. It has been shown that some wild species like reindeer actually prefer snow if given a choice. Canadian ruminants, especially pregnant beef and bison cows and heifers, can do well eating snow. On […] Read more


dried distiller grains

Sulphur in some DDGs can poison cattle

Don’t avoid DDGs but make sure overall feed sulphur is within tolerance levels. 
High sulphur can lead to brain disorder and even death in some cattle — have feed tested

Dried distillers’ grains or DDGs can be purchased from a broker for about $200 per tonne. This attractive price makes it a good feed replacement for a variety of high energy and protein supplements for growing and overwintering beef cattle. However, be aware that incoming loads of DDGs often contain high amounts of sulphur that […] Read more



cattle in a U.S. feedlot

Cattle fundamentals remain healthy

Fed cattle prices in Alberta continue to hover between $168 to $172 due to tighter market-ready supplies, steady consumer demand and a weaker Canadian dollar. Cattle on feed numbers continue to come in below year-ago levels in both Canada and the U.S. Cheaper feed grain prices have allowed feedlots to hold cattle and be patient […] Read more