Canadian Beef Cattle Podcast

Surveys show many producers believe they operate a closed herd, but what does “closed” really mean? For some, it simply means being genetically closed by raising their own replacements and cleanup bulls, using artificial insemination for new genetics and avoiding the purchase of outsourced cattle. However, being a truly closed herd goes far beyond genetics. A closed herd also works to eliminate as many potential sources of disease ...

Most of the research on effective practices for reducing pre-weaning death loss in Canadian beef calves was conducted more than two decades ago. This raises an important question for today’s industry: which calving practices and management work best for Canadian cow-calf producers in 2026? In this episode, we share results from a producer survey conducted through the Canadian Cow-Calf Surveillance Network (C3SN), highlighting on-fa...

Most beef producers are familiar with the frustration of dealing with a “dummy calf” - a calf that won’t suckle, won’t stand and seems unresponsive despite intensive care. In this episode, we explore one of the most common underlying causes: respiratory acidosis. We’ll break down what causes respiratory acidosis, the symptoms to watch for and practical treatment options to help give these calves the best chance at survival.

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Bull sale season is approaching, making now the perfect time to define your bull selection criteria and budget. In this episode, we discuss why choosing the right herd sire is one of the fastest ways to improve herd genetics and how to match bull selection to your operational goals. In this episode, we’ll talk through which traits may be priorities for you, how to stay within budget and how to build a herd for long-term success.

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Colostrum is essential for newborn calves, supplying the antibodies and nutrients they need to build immunity, stay warm and fight early-life diseases like scours and pneumonia. This episode covers key colostrum management practices to help calves get a strong, healthy start.

Relevant Links: 

Calf 911: How to Manage Colostrum to Allow Newborn Calves to Thrive (article)

Calving & Calf Management (webpage)

Cow-Calf Production I...

The most important day of a calf’s life is its first. Several key factors influence whether a newborn calf gets off to a strong start and research shows that the first 24 hours are critical for survival through weaning and beyond. This episode will explore when intervention may be necessary and highlights the importance of follow-up care such as ensuring the calf consumes adequate colostrum and providing a clean environment.

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The Canadian Beef Cattle Podcast has reached a major milestone - Episode 100! To mark the occasion, this episode brings together key insights, tips and strategies from multiple past episodes into one must-listen edition. Whether you’re a new producer or a seasoned rancher, this episode is packed with practical advice to help you achieve a smooth and successful calving season.

Relevant Links:

Calving and Calf Management (webpage)

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Keeping Canada free from foreign animal diseases like Foot-and-Mouth Disease is a shared responsibility. In this episode, we focus on what beef producers and other agricultural travelers need to know. Including travel guidelines, simple prevention steps, and key resources to help safeguard our beef industry from potential disease threats while traveling.

Relevant Links: 

Travel Safe: Stop Foot and Mouth Disease at the Gate (artic...

Beef producers know that mineral supplementation is essential for herd health — but choosing the right product can feel overwhelming. With tubs and bags in every color, price range, and formulation, it’s hard to know what your cattle actually need. In this episode, we cut through the confusion to help you make informed decisions about mineral programs. Learn what minerals matter most, how to assess your herd’s needs, and the best w...

This episode highlights new insights from the Beef Cattle Research Council’s latest report on management trends in Canadian cow–calf operations. Drawing on data from the 2022–23 Canadian Cow-Calf Survey, the Census of Agriculture, and multiple academic studies, the report tracks adoption of 31 practices across reproductive management, calf health, herd management, forage utilization, environmental stewardship, and record-keeping.

Extended winter grazing can lower feed costs, improve soil fertility, reduce fuel use, and distribute manure more evenly across pastures. Success, however, depends on meeting cattle’s nutritional needs at different stages of growth and pregnancy. In this episode, we explore adaptive winter grazing strategies and hear from three experienced Alberta producers as they share their top tips and lessons learned to help you make extended ...

Bale feeding is common across Canada for all classes of cattle especially during winter months, but how you feed those bales can make a big difference. In this episode, we break down the pros and cons of three common approaches — rolling out or processing bales to feed on pasture, bale grazing and using round bale feeders.

Relevant Links:

Bale Feeding Options: Pros and Cons of Common Strategies (article)

Stored Forages (webpage)

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Canada’s beef industry is built on exports — with most heading to the U.S. and Japan as the second-largest market in 2024. Highly marbled beef is prized differently across countries. Canada and Japan use different grading systems, including different grading sites. The ribeye marbling from the same carcass will always score higher in Japan than in Canada. This episode explores research comparing the different grading systems and th...

Bale grazing can cut costs, save labour, and boost pasture health—but it comes with a learning curve. In this episode, three Canadian beef producers share their experiences, tips, and lessons learned on extending winter grazing and why it’s been a game changer for their operations.

Relevant Links:

Bale Grazing Checks the Boxes for Three Canadian Producers (article)

Beat Costs and Boost Yields With Bale Grazing (article)

Extended ...

Nitrates can pose a serious risk in beef cattle diets when consumed at high levels. Understanding how nitrates work, when they become a concern, and how to manage them effectively is key to protecting both your herd and your bottom line. In this episode, we break down the science, the risks, and the practical management strategies you need to know.

Relevant Links: 

Feed Testing: A Tool for Better Returns (article)

Don't Roll The ...

High-grain feedlot diets improve feed efficiency and marbling, but they must be managed carefully to protect cattle health and welfare. Forage, often silage, provides the fiber needed to support rumen function—but not all fibers are created equal. The real challenge is striking the right forage-to-concentrate balance, and finding the right type and level of fiber. This episode explores research around this topic and more. 

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