The Cumulative Influence of Level of Wintering on the Lifetime Performance of Beef Females Through Seven Calf Crops

Abstract

The type of forage available to range beef cows during the winter months dictates in many cases that supplemental protein and often supplemental energy be provided to insure acceptable cow performance. The amount of supplemental feed required is of economic importance in terms of feed cost as well as the ultimate influence on reproductive performance and milk production of the dam. Several experiments have been conducted at this station which relate to this subject, and progress reports have been made periodically. This report summarizes performance of spring-calving cows wintered at different levels from weaning through seven calf crops.