Purchased feed and inputs for pasture and hay production represent one of the largest cost categories for cow-calf and stocker producers. Based on Standard Performance Analysis (SPA) data from cow-calf producers in Texas, purchased feed, fertilizer, seed, and chemicals account for 24 percent of annual cow cost. This cost has yet to include labor, fuel, maintenance/repair, depreciation, or interest which account for 43 percent of the total cost of carrying a cow. The entire 43 percent cannot be attributed to feed, pasture, and hay costs, but one can easily see how 40 to 50 percent of all costs could be attributed to keeping cattle fed. In order to achieve the task of determining how much hay is needed and what the potential cost will be, Kevin Ferguson, Rebekah Norman, and Tammy McKinley developed an Excel-based “Hay Calculator” to help with the calculations. Read more…
Recent Posts
TSCRA commends USDA’s continued border closure to combat spread of New World screwworm
FORT WORTH, Texas (July 9, 2025)— Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association President Carl …
Crime watch: Black Angus bull missing in Coleman County
Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association Special Ranger HD Brittain, District 19 in West …
Continue Reading about Crime watch: Black Angus bull missing in Coleman County
Texas Ranch Receives Regional Environmental Stewardship Award
SAN DIEGO (July 8, 2025) – McFaddin Ranch in Victoria, Texas, was recognized today by the National …
Continue Reading about Texas Ranch Receives Regional Environmental Stewardship Award