| In 1995 and 1996, prices for weaned calves were at the lowest point for the current cattle market cycle. The National Animal Health Monitoring System (NAHMS) Beef ,97 Study examined the effects of the down market on beef cow-calf herd management practices. Most producers did not alter management practices in response to the down market. Among producers who made changes, costs were cut largely in the area of herd health management. Specific management practices in which costs were cut included decreases in use of vaccinations (7.4% of operations), herd medications (7.7% of operations), individual cow medications (5.0% of operations), and veterinary services (14.1% of operations). Other ways that producers altered management practices in response to the down... |
