OSU Student in Agricultural Communications Reduced rainfall and weeks of hot, even record-breaking temperatures are decreasing forage production and nutritional quality in cattle, potentially impacting their health and production.
Paul Beck, professor of animal and food sciences and OSU Extension beef nutrition specialist, and his son, Matt Beck, assistant professor of beef cattle nutrition at Texas A&M, are examining these effects and highlighting management practices to maintain productive and resilient herds during drought conditions. Poor nutrient availability and heat stress can affect fetal health and development, as well as calves’ early life.
The two researchers recently co-authored a paper recommending the use of smaller, mature cows to better fit our pasture and range environment.
