BISMARCK, N.D. — Dry conditions continue to challenge livestock producers across parts of the Northern Plains, and beef cattle specialists say tough management decisions made now could have a major impact on profitability down the road.
With pasture conditions tightening and forage supplies becoming more limited, some ranchers may be forced to reduce herd numbers. According to North Dakota State University livestock management specialist Lacey Quail, culling decisions should focus on maintaining the most reproductively efficient females in the herd.
“Reproduction is the largest driver of profitability in the cow herd,” Quail said.
Open cows are often the first to leave when producers need to cut numbers, but Quail says ranchers should also pay close attention to breeding and calving records when evaluating pregnant females.
Research has consistently shown that cows bred during the first 21 days of the breeding season tend to deliver calves earlier in the calving season. Those calves generally weigh more at weaning and contribute more pounds of beef to the operation.
The advantages don’t stop there. Early calving cows are more likely to rebreed successfully the following season, helping maintain productivity and reducing replacement costs.
The same pattern applies to replacement heifers. Females that calve early in their first production year typically continue that trend throughout their careers. Those animals often remain productive longer and contribute more value over their lifetime.
Beyond herd reductions, Extension specialists say drought management should also focus on minimizing heat stress. High temperatures can reduce fertility in both cows and bulls by affecting reproductive performance during breeding season.
Providing dependable water supplies, controlling flies, reducing handling during the hottest parts of the day, and ensuring access to shade can help reduce stress on cattle.
Quail recommends scheduling cattle movement, hauling, or processing activities during morning hours whenever possible, when temperatures are generally cooler.
Nutrition is another concern as drought reduces both forage quality and pasture production. Spring calving cows face the added challenge of lactation and breeding occurring at the same time, increasing nutrient demands.
If cows begin losing body condition, pregnancy rates can suffer. Producers may need to evaluate supplementation programs to ensure cattle receive adequate energy and protein while grazing drought-affected pastures.
Extension specialists encourage ranchers to regularly assess pasture carrying capacity, monitor water availability, and make timely management adjustments before conditions worsen.
As drought continues across portions of cattle country, experts say producers who make proactive decisions today will be better positioned to protect herd productivity and profitability in the months ahead.
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