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.
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.
Managing the Effects of Stress and Temperament on Beef Cattle Reproduction
New
Learn how stress and temperament affect beef cattle reproduction and discover management strategies to improve breeding outcomes and herd health.
Crossbreeding Systems for Small Herds of Beef Cattle
Revised
Crossbreeding in commercial beef cattle production improves efficiency through heterosis and breed complementation.
Successfully Direct Marketing Beef
New
Get tips on direct marketing beef in this 32-page publication.
Heritability and Its Use in Animal Breeding
Reviewed
Heritability has a large influence on livestock performance. Visit our website to learn about Heritability and Its Use in Animal Breeding.
Missouri Frost/Freeze Probabilities Guide
Reviewed
Where in Missouri you live can make a big difference on when to expect your first or last frost. See this guide for probabilities based on past years.
Wheat Silage for Beef Cattle
Reviewed
Learn how to effectively use wheat silage for beef cattle, including optimal harvest timing and moisture levels for improved feed quality.
The System Concept of Beef Production: BIF Fact Sheet
Reviewed
The systems concept of beef production incorporates an awareness that there is more to consider in a beef cattle enterprise than simply the level of production. What is most important is the overall efficiency of the enterprise.
Vitamins for Beef Cattle
Reviewed
Ensure beef cattle health by understanding the roles and requirements of vitamins A, D, and E, including deficiency signs and dietary sources.
Mineral Supplements for Beef Cattle
Reviewed
Beef cattle require a number of dietary mineral elements to remain healthy. Visit our site to learn about Mineral Supplements for Beef Cattle.
Calculating Fertilizer Value of Supplemental Feed for Cattle on Pasture
New
Learn how supplemental feeds' nutrients benefit pastures, potentially reducing fertilizer costs.
Soil Sampling Hayfields and Row Crops
New
Collecting a representative soil sample is an important step in developing a nutrient plan for your farm. Make smarter management decisions and more efficient use of fertilizer nutrients by learning how to plan and take soil samples from your fields in th
Soil Sampling Pastures
New
Collecting a representative soil sample is an important step in developing a nutrient plan for your farm. The goals of your soil sampling plan should be to
Using Performance Data in Judging Classes: BIF Fact Sheet
Reviewed
Judging contests are an important educational tool. Someday young cattle producers will be faced with selection decisions that affect the profitability of their operations. This guide can be used to train youth interested in modern beef selection practices.1