Five Pre-Pasture Turnout Tips

Pasture turnout is an important time in a cow herd management calendar. It is critical to make sure both the forage and cattle are ready before opening the pasture gate.

Considering your cow herd, what should you consider before turnout? AJ Tarpoff, DVM and Kansas State University Extension veterinarian, shares his top five tips producers should consider before sending cattle to pasture this summer.

1.- Perform Spring Herd Health Program. Tarpoff reminds producers the importance of doing bull breeding soundness exams before putting the bull to work. He also encourages producers to do pre-breeding vaccinations, consider synchronization options and plan for common pasture ailments such as foot rot and pinkeye.

2.- Make a Plan for Internal/External Parasites. Now is the time to decide how you are going to tackle flies, ticks and internal nematodes. Aaron Berger, University of Nebraska beef systems Extension educator, reminds producers there are several options available to help control flies and to consider the option that works best for your management plan.

3.- Establish Summer Mineral Program. Tarpoff encourages producers to prepare mineral feeders and calculate needs and delivery intervals.