Market Farming

["RDH" <rdhopkins AT americanpasturage.com>]

Rick W.

An article in a recent issue of Stockman Grass Farmer reported Dr. Dhiman as
saying that the grain feeding suppression is a permanent condition where as
the hay or low quality forage is a temporary condition.

We do have samples of each of our slaughter animals analyzed.  The results
of data support the claims in the article.

The more I study and learn from workshops about the parasite concerns, the
more convinced I am that it is better to manage for parasites with forage
height and availability than with pharmaceuticals.  If young animals are
treated during weaning and development, they do not have as much opportunity
to develop a natural immunity to the parasites.  We contend that if parasite
control becomes necessary it should be deferred to after the animal reaches
full maturity.  Holding the animals in a lot or on a sacrificial paddock for
24-48 hours depending on the type of treatment can reduce the harm caused by
the chemicals passing into the manure stream.

We run Beefmaster and a few British crosses.  I don't promote any specific
breed as an all around performer as we find that the unique properties of
each farm and farm location may lead to a different choice in animal breeds.
We chose Beefmasters due to their inherent fly and hot weather properties.
Summer is a more stressful time for our animals than any time of the year
and we believe that the Brahman influence helps offset the hot weather
periods.

Our farm profit lies in low input costs.  With an intensive grazing system,
we have increased our animal health, increased conception rate, lowered
stress, and improved total annual pounds of beef produced.  We are in one of
the better grass areas of the country also.

Regards,

Rick H.