The following publications cover topics related to Beef Extension. For a complete list of MU Extension publications, visit the main Publications page.
Vaccination Program for a Cow-Calf Operation
New
An overview of a vaccine program for a cow-calf operation, covering the viruses and bacteria of concern, the difference between killed and modified live viral vaccines, and an example of a vaccine schedule.
Introduction to Beef Cow Leases
New
Leasing beef cows can be a cost-effective strategy for new or expanding producers, offering reduced capital investment and risk compared to purchasing.
Beef Feeding Profitability Tracker
New
Learn how to use the Beef Feeding Profitability Tracker tool, a financial analysis spreadsheet tool for small to mid-size cattle feeders to use free of charge.
Missouri Slaughter and Inspection Requirements for Livestock and Poultry Producers
Revised
Missouri meat producers must register and meet inspection requirements to sell meat legally. Learn about species-specific regulations and compliance.
Cash Rental Rates in Missouri
Revised
Updated with 2024 survey data, this guide provides average cash rental rates for Missouri cropland and pastureland, aiding informed lease decisions.
How to Use the Hair Shedding Scale
New
Hair shedding scores represent a visual appraisal of the extent an animal has shed their winter coat. This MU Extension guide is meant to provide further detail and guidance on hair shed scoring animals.
Hair Shedding Scores: A Tool to Select Heat Tolerant Cattle
Revised
Learn how hair shedding scores can help select heat-tolerant cattle, improving productivity and adaptability in challenging environments.
Feeding Poultry Litter to Beef Cattle
Reviewed
Poultry litter can be used as a feedstuff, but it presents special consumer issues. Visit our site to learn about Feeding Poultry Litter to Beef Cattle.
Pasture, Rangeland, Forage (PRF) Insurance in Missouri
Revised
Protect your grazing or hay farming operation from drought risk. Get tips and examples for understanding how PRF insurance works and choosing a policy.
Pasture Fence Construction Budget
New
Detailed cost estimates for building perimeter and interior fences on Missouri farms, including materials, labor, and equipment.
Native Warm-Season Grass Seed Production
New
This guide provides a description of the methodology behind harvesting native warm-season grass seeds, including management tips, maturity indicators, harvest methods, and a production budget.
Forage Crop Irrigation Systems and Economics
Revised
Before choosing a forage irrigation system to mitigate drought risk, explore expected forage response to irrigation, equipment options and the economics.
Crop Insurance in Missouri
Revised
Learn four types of crop insurance that can manage corn, soybean and other row crop risk. Read about units you can insure and the premium cost for a policy.
5 Steps to Buying Meat Direct From the Farm
New
If you are interested in buying meat from a local farmer, in quarters or halves, review these five considerations: how much meat your family can consume and what cuts to buy, sourcing an animal, finding a local meat processor, costs, and timing.
Estrus Synchronization Recommendations for Artificial Insemination of Beef Cows
Revised
Learn about Select Synch, 7-Day CO-Synch + CIDR, 7 & 7 Synch, 5-Day CO-Synch + CIDR, PG 6-Day CIDR, and Bos indicus PG 5-Day CIDR estrus synchronization protocols for artificial insemination of beef cows in this University of Missouri Extension guide.
Estrus Synchronization Recommendations for Natural Service Bull Breeding
Revised
Learn about simple synchronization protocols the can be used effectively with natural service bull breeding that capture some benefits of estrus synchronization without the need to adopt an artificial insemination program in this MU Extension guide.
Estrus Synchronization Recommendations for Artificial Insemination of Beef Heifers
Revised
Learn about recommended protocols for artificial insemination of beef heifers using 1-Shot PG, 7-Day CO-Synch + CIDR, 5-Day CO-Synch + CIDR, 14-Day CIDR-PG, and MGA-PG in this University of Missouri Extension guide.
Sexed Semen for Artificial Insemination: Recommendations and AI Approaches
Revised
Learn about using sexed semen in a planned mating of cattle and how it differs from conventional semen. Heat detection, fixed-time artificial insemination and split-time AI approaches are described in this University of Missouri Extension guide.
Care and Maintenance of a Liquid Nitrogen Tank
Revised
Semen is a significant cost in a cattle artificial insemination program. Maintaining a liquid nitrogen tank’s integrity is key to protecting that investment. Learn how to properly care for and maintain a liquid nitrogen tank in this MU Extension guide.
Selection of Replacement Heifers for Commercial Beef Cattle Operations
New
To maintain herd numbers, commercial cow-calf operations must buy or develop females to replace culled cows. Learn about different strategies so you can make the most economical decision for your farm or ranch with long-term profitability in mind.
Facilities for Artificial Insemination of Beef Cattle
New
Access to functional artificial insemination (AI) facilities is a challenge for beef cattle producers. Learn what to look for in an AI facility and view a list of portable breeding barns available through University of Missouri Extension.
Detection of Estrus in Beef Cattle Herds
New
Correctly detecting cows and heifers in estrus can be critical for beef producers. Learn behavioral and physiological changes that indicate standing heat, how to use estrus detection aids and how to time artificial insemination in this MU Extension guide.
Production Records for Commercial Cow-Calf Operations
New
Track key metrics like breeding, calving, and weaning to enhance cow-calf herd productivity and profitability through effective record-keeping.
Crossbreeding Systems for Small Herds of Beef Cattle
Revised
Crossbreeding in commercial beef cattle production improves efficiency through heterosis and breed complementation.
Calving Season Considerations for Commercial Beef Cattle Operations
New
Explore key factors in choosing the best time of year to calve for improved efficiency, herd health, and profitability in beef cattle operations.