An Economic Analysis of Conventional and Alternative Cow-Calf Production Systems

Authors

Jason M. Warner, University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Andrea K. Watson, University of Nebraska at LincolnFollow
K. H. Jenkins Jenkins, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow
Rick J. Rasby, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow
Kate Brooks, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow
Terry J. Klopfenstein, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow

ORCID IDs

Andrea K. Watson

Date of this Version

2015

Citation

2015 Nebraska Beef Cattle Report, University of Nebraska—Lincoln Extension, MP101.

Comments

Copyright © 2015 University of Nebraska.

Abstract

Profitability through weaning was predicted for conventional and alternative cow-calf production systems using various input price scenarios. At base input price levels, conventional systems were more economical than alternative systems. As pasture price increased, alternativesystems became cost effective. Feeding cows year-round in a confinement setting appeared the least economical; however, an alternative system combining summer drylot feeding with cornstalk grazing is projected to be economically competitive given an increasing abundance of corn residue.