2017 was busy, especially late summer and fall. I really tried to get a jump on the cool-season ryegrass crop this year; disced, seeded, and harrowed by the end of September of last year. But then...no more rain! A very dry fall and winter has resulted in very weak germination. I'll fertilize at the end of this month and hopefully get some early green grazing for my lactating cows. We'll see.

I had three calves born in late July (2) and early August (1); all girls. I have kept them on their mothers in the pasture and have just brought them down with the herd for winter feeding and protection from severe cold/wet conditions.

I also brought down four cows that were nearing their calving dates. One of them delivered on January 2 (a girl) and the other three are due really soon. I keep this group separate from the rest of the cows and closer to the house so I can monitor and feed easier. And I have two first-year heifers that are due in early March.

With the new calf (Dawn), that gives me six heifers, two of which can be bred this coming April. I also have three steers that will be sold for meat in late spring this year. I think I have too many animals for the type of operation I can effectively manage the way I want.

I originally thought that on my 25 acres I could support 10, perhaps 12 (the number I have now) breeding cows. In terms of yearly calf crop using AI breeding, that would probably be about right given my luck with that process. However, since I now have two bulls my calving rate has overwhelmed me.

I have decided to reduce my breeding herd to about 8 cows and will be selling most if not all the heifers after they are weaned. I may also be offering one or two of my cows. I will not be halter training the newest calves so my asking prices will be reduced. I'll determine those soon. I will post pictures soon as well. Check back in a few days.

Thanks

Jim