The idea of cattle farming is appealing to both small and large ranchers and farmers. Often family farms are passed down through generations, with kids growing up as cattle ranching families and understanding the life, demands, and the business side of the industry.
People can also move into cattle farming as adults with limited or no farming experience and background. Before getting into cattle farming, here are a few things that you need to know:
- A life, not just a job – cattle farming is not a 9 to 5 job; it is a 24 hour a day life. Cattle farmers love this part of the job, but it is not for everyone, particularly those who want to travel, have a full-time career off the farm, or those who have a lot of other types of obligations and commitments on their time.
- Slow growth – building a quality breeding herd, either for commercial or purebred operations, takes time. Using a breeding plan and quality genetics is essential, but there is no way to speed up mother nature.
- Planning financially – farming cattle includes investments in the cattle, bulls, fencing, tractors and equipment, barns, and land. Knowing how many cattle per acre for pasture is critical to judge if you want to expand or stay small and eliminate the cost of leasing pasture. Winter feeding is an additional expense, and cows have to have quality feed over the winter months for healthy calves in the spring.
Today, cattle farming also includes keeping records and tracking information. Software systems can help, but these types of systems are an additional cost. We recommend talking to as many people as you can before getting started and making investments.
One way we offer to help reduce operating costs is the lease a bull. If you would like to discuss this option, get in touch today at 1-800-548-BULL (2855).
For more information visit Jorgensen Farms.
