Beef cattle production in the southeastern United States differs in size, practice, and production type from other U.S. regions. Smaller, cow-calf type operations dominate in this region because the climate, forage availability, and other land use practices of farmers make this type of cattle operation more ideal for the Southeast. Cow-calf production, particularly small-herd enterprises, does not typically require the level of intense management compared to other beef operations, thus making it more manageable for those with limited time and labor. This research summarizes the current practices and characteristics that define the Southeastern cow-calf operation as it operates under the new challenges of today’s market and operating environment; it also... |