# [Beef Cattle Production](/knowledge/animal-farming/beef-cattle/beef-cattle-production-systems-economics-and-sustainability) by State: Regional Comparisons and Trends ## Key Takeaways - Regional beef cattle production is significantly shaped by climate, forage availability, and market access, with the Southern Plains (Texas, Oklahoma) characterized by large herds on native range and high drought risk, while the Southeast (Florida, Georgia) features smaller herds on improved pastures facing heat stress and parasite challenges. - The Midwest (Nebraska, Kansas, Iowa) leverages strong crop production infrastructure for cattle feeding, utilizing cornstalks and distillers grains, and experiences cold winters requiring specific management for energy requirements and shelter. - Mountain West operations (Colorado, Montana, Wyoming) rely on extensive rangeland with moderate to large herds, facing challenges from short growing seasons, winter severity, and long transport distances to processing facilities. - Market access varies considerably, with the Southern Plains and Midwest possessing robust feedlot and packing infrastructure, whereas the Southeast and Pacific Northwest have limited local processing capacity, necessitating longer transport distances for fed cattle. - Environmental factors such as greenhouse gas emissions, water use, and land management are critical considerations, with regional differences in feed production, manure handling, and transportation impacting overall sustainability metrics. - Production system success is contingent on matching genetics to regional conditions, optimizing calving seasons to avoid extreme weather, and developing robust contingency plans for drought and market volatility. --- This article summarizes state-level beef cattle inventories, herd sizes, and production systems across the United States, highlighting regional differences in climate, forage availability, and market access. Producers and industry analysts can use this information to benchmark operations, evaluate expansion opportunities, and understand how environmental and economic factors shape beef production in different regions. ## At a Glance: State-Level [Beef Cattle Production](/knowledge/animal-farming/beef-cattle/beef-cattle-production-systems-economics-and-sustainability) Overview The following table provides a comparative snapshot of [beef cattle production](/knowledge/animal-farming/beef-cattle/beef-cattle-production-systems-economics-and-sustainability) characteristics across major U.S. regions. Data represent general patterns observed in recent years and should be verified with current USDA reports for specific decision-making. | Region | Typical Herd Size | Primary Forage System | Market Access | Key Climate Factor | |--------|-------------------|----------------------|---------------|-------------------| | Southern Plains (Texas, Oklahoma) | Large (200+ head) | Native range, warm-season grasses | Multiple feedlots, packing plants | Drought risk, high summer temperatures | | Midwest (Nebraska, Kansas, Iowa) | Moderate to large (100-500 head) | Cornstalks, cool-season pastures, alfalfa | Strong feedlot and packing infrastructure | Cold winters, adequate rainfall | | Southeast (Florida, Georgia, Alabama) | Small to moderate (30-100 head) | Warm-season perennial grasses, bahiagrass | Regional processors, limited feedlot capacity | High humidity, heat stress, parasites | | Mountain West (Colorado, Montana, Wyoming) | Moderate to large (150-400 head) | Native range, irrigated hay meadows | Variable feedlot access, long transport distances | Short growing season, winter severity | | Pacific Northwest (Oregon, Washington, Idaho) | Small to moderate (50-200 head) | Irrigated pastures, grass-legume mixes | Niche markets, grass-fed demand | Mild winters, dry summers | ## Regional Production Systems and Climate Constraints ### Southern Plains: Texas and Oklahoma Texas leads the nation in beef cattle inventory, with operations concentrated in the Rolling Plains, Edwards Plateau, and Gulf Coast regions. The climate features hot summers, mild winters, and periodic drought that directly affects forage availability and herd carrying capacity. Producers in this region manage large cow-calf operations on native range, with supplemental feeding common during dry periods. The Southern Great Plains has experienced measurable changes in water footprint associated with [beef cattle production](/knowledge/animal-farming/beef-cattle/beef-cattle-production-systems-economics-and-sustainability) under shifting climate patterns. Research examining these changes indicates that producers must adapt water management strategies to maintain productivity. The relationship between climate variability and beef cattle production in this region has been evaluated through historical trend analysis, showing that energy inputs and climate factors interact to influence production outcomes. Cow-calf operators in Texas and Oklahoma typically wean calves in the fall and market them through auction barns or direct to feedlots. Stocker operations are common, where weaned calves graze wheat pasture or other cool-season forages before entering feedlots. The region benefits from proximity to major cattle feeding and packing infrastructure in the Texas Panhandle and southwestern Kansas. ### Southeast: Florida and Georgia Florida cattle production operates under distinct environmental conditions compared to other regions. The subtropical climate with high humidity and year-round warm temperatures creates challenges for parasite control and heat stress management. Producers in Florida typically maintain smaller herds on bahiagrass and other warm-season perennial pastures. The Southeast generally has limited feedlot capacity compared to the Plains states. Most calves born in Florida and Georgia are weaned and shipped to feedlots in other regions, often to the Southern Plains or Midwest. This transportation cost reduces net returns for southeastern cow-calf producers and creates dependency on out-of-region feeding infrastructure. Forage quality in the Southeast declines during the summer months due to high temperatures and humidity, requiring producers to supplement with protein or energy sources to maintain cow body condition. Calving seasons are often timed to avoid the hottest months, with spring and fall calving being common management strategies. ### Midwest: Nebraska, Kansas, and Iowa The Midwest combines strong crop production with beef cattle feeding infrastructure. Nebraska and Kansas are leading states in cattle on feed, with large feedlots concentrated in areas with abundant corn and distillers grains supplies. Cow-calf operations in these states tend to be smaller than in the Plains but benefit from access to crop residues and improved pastures. Iowa beef production includes both cow-calf and feedlot segments, with many operations integrated with row crop farming. Cornstalks provide low-cost winter grazing for cows, and corn grain is readily available for finishing cattle. The region's cold winters require attention to windbreaks, bedding, and increased energy requirements for cattle. The genotype-by-environment interactions in beef cattle populations have been studied across different production settings. Research on this topic examines how genetic potential interacts with environmental conditions, including climate and management systems, to influence animal performance. Producers selecting genetics for their operations should consider how those genetics will perform under their specific regional conditions. ### Mountain West: Colorado, Montana, and Wyoming The Mountain West features extensive rangeland systems with low stocking rates and long distances between water sources. Colorado has significant feedlot capacity in the northeastern part of the state, while Montana and Wyoming focus primarily on cow-calf production with calves shipped to feedlots in other states. Historical trends in New Mexico beef cattle production have been evaluated in relation to climate and energy factors. This research demonstrates that climate variability, particularly drought frequency and severity, directly influences herd numbers and production efficiency in arid and semi-arid regions. Producers in the Mountain West must maintain flexible stocking rates and have drought management plans in place. Winter feeding costs are a major expense for Mountain West producers, with hay production limited by short growing seasons and irrigation availability. Many operations calve in late winter or early spring to align with forage growth cycles, though this timing exposes newborn calves to cold stress. ### Pacific Northwest: Oregon, Washington, and Idaho The Pacific Northwest combines irrigated pastures in valleys with extensive rangeland in drier areas. Oregon and Washington have growing grass-fed beef markets that influence production practices and marketing strategies. Idaho has significant dairy-beef cross production, where dairy genetics are used for beef production. Post-weaning management of dairy cattle genetics for beef production has been reviewed in the scientific literature. This research addresses how dairy-beef cross animals perform in different production systems and how management practices affect carcass quality and profitability. Producers considering dairy-beef crosses should evaluate their regional market preferences and feeding infrastructure. ## Herd Size Distribution and Economic Considerations ### Small Herd Operations Operations with fewer than 50 cows represent a significant portion of beef cattle producers nationally but account for a smaller share of total inventory. These operations often rely on off-farm income and may have different management objectives than larger commercial herds. Small herd operators in the Southeast and Pacific Northwest face higher per-unit costs for inputs such as veterinary services and mineral supplements. ### Medium Herd Operations Operations with 50 to 200 cows are common across all regions and represent the typical commercial cow-calf enterprise. These producers often have dedicated [cattle handling facilities](/knowledge/animal-farming/alternative-livestock/cattle-handling-facilities-safe-corral-system) and more formal record-keeping systems. Medium herd operators in the Midwest and Southern Plains benefit from economies of scale in purchasing inputs and marketing calves. ### Large Herd Operations Operations with more than 200 cows are concentrated in the Southern Plains and Mountain West, where extensive rangeland allows for larger herd sizes. These operations typically have full-time labor, sophisticated grazing management, and direct marketing relationships with feedlots. Large herd operators face challenges related to labor management, environmental regulations, and capital requirements for land and equipment. ## Forage and Feed Systems by Region ### Native Range and Pasture Systems Native range grazing is the primary forage system in the Southern Plains and Mountain West. Warm-season grasses such as bluestem, grama, and buffalo grass provide summer grazing but have low protein content during dormancy. Producers must supplement with protein during winter months to maintain cow body condition. Improved pastures using introduced grasses are common in the Southeast and Midwest. Bahiagrass, bermudagrass, and fescue provide higher forage production than native range but require fertilization and weed management. Fescue toxicosis from endophyte-infected tall fescue is a significant problem in the Southeast and lower Midwest, reducing weight gains and reproductive performance. ### Crop Residue and Byproduct Feeding Cornstalks, wheat straw, and other crop residues provide low-cost winter grazing in the Midwest and Southern Plains. Cattle can graze cornstalks from November through February with minimal supplementation, reducing winter feed costs. Distillers grains from ethanol production are available in the Midwest and provide a concentrated protein and energy source for growing and finishing cattle. ### Irrigated Pasture and Hay Production Irrigated pastures are important in the Mountain West and Pacific Northwest, where natural precipitation is insufficient for consistent forage production. Alfalfa hay is the primary stored feed in these regions, with high protein content that supports lactating cows and growing calves. Irrigation costs and water availability are major constraints for producers in these areas. ## Market Access and Infrastructure ### Feedlot Concentration Cattle feeding is concentrated in the Southern Plains and Midwest, where corn supplies, climate conditions, and packing plant infrastructure support large feedlots. Producers in regions without local feedlot capacity must ship calves long distances, incurring transportation costs and potential shrink losses. The environmental footprints of beef cattle production in the United States have been evaluated, showing that regional differences in feed production, manure management, and transportation affect overall sustainability metrics. ### Processing Capacity Packing plant capacity is concentrated in a few states, with major facilities in Texas, Kansas, Nebraska, and Colorado. Producers in the Southeast, Pacific Northwest, and Northeast face limited local processing options, which can reduce competition for fed cattle and limit price discovery. Small and medium processors serve local and regional markets but may have limited capacity and specialized product requirements. ### Direct Marketing and Niche Markets Grass-fed, organic, and locally branded beef programs are growing in the Pacific Northwest, Northeast, and parts of the Midwest. These programs require different production practices, including forage-based finishing, no antibiotic use, and specific breed types. Producers considering niche markets should evaluate the additional costs, certification requirements, and market demand in their region. ## Environmental and Sustainability Considerations ### Greenhouse Gas Emissions Beef cattle production contributes to greenhouse gas emissions through enteric fermentation, manure management, and feed production. Research on mitigating greenhouse gas and ammonia emissions from beef cattle feedlot production has been conducted through system meta-analysis. This work identifies management practices that can reduce emissions, including diet modification, manure handling, and [feedlot design](/knowledge/animal-farming/farm-management/beef-cattle-feedlot-design-pen-layout-manure). ### Water Use and Availability Water footprint of beef cattle production varies by region, with the Southern Great Plains facing particular challenges under changing climate conditions. Producers in arid and semi-arid regions must manage water resources carefully, considering both drinking water for cattle and water used for feed production. Irrigation for forage and feed crops represents the largest water use in beef production systems. ### Land Use and Grazing Management Grazing management affects soil health, carbon sequestration, and biodiversity on rangeland and pasture. Rotational grazing, prescribed burning, and brush management are practices used to maintain productive forage stands and prevent overgrazing. Producers should monitor range condition and adjust stocking rates based on forage availability and precipitation patterns. ## Records and Measurements for Regional Comparison ### Herd Inventory Records Maintain accurate counts of cows, heifers, bulls, and calves by age class and production stage. Record calving dates, weaning weights, and culling reasons to evaluate reproductive efficiency and genetic progress. Compare herd performance to regional benchmarks to identify areas for improvement. ### Financial Records Track income from calf sales, cull cows, and any value-added programs. Record expenses for feed, veterinary services, labor, equipment, and land payments. Calculate cost per cow, cost per pound of calf weaned, and net return per cow to evaluate economic efficiency relative to regional averages. ### Forage and Feed Records Document forage production by pasture or field, including yield estimates and quality analysis. Record supplemental feed purchases, including type, amount, and cost. Monitor body condition scores of cows throughout the year to evaluate whether nutritional programs are meeting requirements. ### Marketing Records Record sale dates, weights, prices, and buyer information for all cattle sold. Track transportation costs and shrink losses associated with shipping cattle to feedlots or processing plants. Evaluate marketing options annually based on price differentials between local and regional markets. ## Common Failure Patterns in Regional Production ### Overstocking During Drought Producers in the Southern Plains and Mountain West frequently overstock during wet years, leading to forced herd reductions during drought. This pattern reduces reproductive efficiency, increases feed costs, and damages range condition. Develop a drought management plan with trigger dates and stocking rate reductions before drought occurs. ### Inadequate Parasite Control in Humid Regions Producers in the Southeast and Pacific Northwest often underestimate parasite burdens in warm, humid conditions. Internal and external parasites reduce weight gains, increase disease susceptibility, and can cause death losses. Implement a strategic deworming program based on fecal egg counts and seasonal parasite transmission patterns. ### Poor Calving Season Management Calving during extreme weather, whether cold in the Mountain West or hot in the Southeast, increases calf mortality and reduces weaning rates. Producers should match calving season to climate conditions and forage availability, providing adequate shelter and nutrition for cows during calving. ### Inadequate Market Timing Selling calves at weaning without considering seasonal price patterns reduces revenue for many producers. Calves marketed in October and November typically receive lower prices than those marketed in spring or summer. Evaluate retained ownership, backgrounding, or delayed marketing options to capture seasonal price premiums. ## Welfare and Safety Context ### Heat Stress Management Heat stress affects cattle in all regions but is most severe in the Southern Plains and Southeast during summer months. Provide shade, adequate water access, and consider night feeding during extreme heat events. Monitor cattle for signs of heat stress including panting, drooling, and reduced feed intake. ### Cold Stress Management Cold stress is a concern in the Midwest and Mountain West during winter months. Provide windbreaks, dry bedding, and increased feed energy to maintain body condition. Newborn calves are particularly susceptible to cold stress and require shelter or calving during milder weather. ### Handling Facility Design Proper [cattle handling facilities](/knowledge/animal-farming/alternative-livestock/cattle-handling-facilities-safe-corral-system) reduce stress on animals and improve worker safety. Design facilities based on cattle behavior principles, including curved chutes, solid sides, and non-slip flooring. Train all workers in low-stress handling techniques and emergency procedures. ### Biosecurity Practices Implement biosecurity protocols to prevent disease introduction and spread. Isolate new animals for at least 30 days before introducing to the herd. Control visitor access, clean equipment between groups of cattle, and maintain vaccination programs based on regional disease risks. ## Professional Escalation Criteria Consult a veterinarian, extension specialist, or industry consultant when: - Herd reproductive rates fall below 85 percent calves weaned per cow exposed - Calf mortality exceeds 5 percent of calves born - Average weaning weights are more than 20 percent below regional benchmarks - Feed costs per cow exceed 60 percent of total production costs - Range condition scores decline to poor or very poor categories - Disease outbreaks affect more than 5 percent of the herd - Financial losses persist for three consecutive years ## Practical Decision Framework: Matching Production System to Regional Conditions Selecting the appropriate production system for a given region requires systematic evaluation of climate constraints, forage resources, market access, and operational goals. The following decision framework helps producers assess their specific conditions and choose management strategies that align with regional realities. This framework draws on research examining genotype-by-environment interactions in beef cattle populations, which demonstrates that genetic potential interacts with environmental conditions to influence animal performance. Producers should evaluate how their chosen genetics will perform under their specific regional conditions before making investment decisions. ### Step 1: Assess Climate Constraints Begin by documenting the climate factors that most affect cattle production in your location. Record average summer high temperatures, winter low temperatures, annual precipitation, and drought frequency. For producers in the Southern Plains and Mountain West, drought risk is the primary climate constraint requiring flexible stocking rates and drought management plans. Research evaluating historical trends in New Mexico beef cattle production in relation to climate and energy factors demonstrates that climate variability, particularly drought frequency and severity, directly influences herd numbers and production efficiency in arid and semi-arid regions. Producers in the Southeast and Pacific Northwest should prioritize heat stress and parasite pressure as their main climate challenges, while Midwest and Mountain West producers must plan for cold stress during winter months. ### Step 2: Evaluate Forage Resources Inventory your available forage resources by type, productivity, and seasonal availability. Native range systems in the Southern Plains and Mountain West provide summer grazing but require protein supplementation during winter dormancy. Improved pastures in the Southeast and Midwest offer higher forage production but require fertilization and weed management. Crop residues such as cornstalks provide low-cost winter grazing in the Midwest and Southern Plains, reducing winter feed costs. Irrigated pastures in the Mountain West and Pacific Northwest support consistent forage production but require significant water resources and irrigation infrastructure. Document forage production by pasture or field, including yield estimates and quality analysis, to determine whether your forage system can support your target herd size without excessive supplemental feed purchases. ### Step 3: Analyze Market Access Evaluate your proximity to feedlots, packing plants, and auction markets. Producers in regions without local feedlot capacity, such as the Southeast and Pacific Northwest, must ship calves long distances, incurring transportation costs and potential shrink losses. The environmental footprints of beef cattle production in the United States have been evaluated, showing that regional differences in feed production, manure management, and transportation affect overall sustainability metrics. Consider whether direct marketing or niche markets, such as grass-fed or locally branded beef programs, are viable options in your region. These programs require different production practices, including forage-based finishing, no antibiotic use, and specific breed types, and producers should evaluate the additional costs, certification requirements, and market demand before committing to these systems. ### Step 4: Select Appropriate Genetics Choose cattle genetics that match your regional conditions and production goals. Research on genotype-by-environment interactions in beef and dairy cattle populations reviews how genetic potential interacts with environmental conditions, including climate and management systems, to influence animal performance. For hot and humid regions like the Southeast, select breeds with heat tolerance and parasite resistance. For cold climates in the Midwest and Mountain West, choose breeds with good maternal traits and cold tolerance. For producers considering dairy-beef cross animals, post-weaning management of modern dairy cattle genetics for beef production has been reviewed, addressing how these animals perform in different production systems and how management practices affect carcass quality and profitability. Evaluate your regional market preferences and feeding infrastructure before incorporating dairy genetics into your beef operation. ### Step 5: Match Calving Season to Regional Conditions Time your calving season to avoid extreme weather and align with forage availability. Producers in the Mountain West often calve in late winter or early spring to align with forage growth cycles, though this timing exposes newborn calves to cold stress. Southeastern producers typically calve in spring or fall to avoid the hottest months. Midwest producers may calve in spring to take advantage of cool-season pasture growth or in fall to avoid summer heat stress. Record calving dates, calf mortality rates, and weaning weights to evaluate whether your calving season timing is optimal for your region. ### Step 6: Develop Contingency Plans Create written plans for drought, extreme weather events, and market disruptions. For drought-prone regions, establish trigger dates and stocking rate reductions before drought occurs. For cold climates, prepare windbreaks, bedding, and increased feed energy supplies before winter. For regions with volatile markets, evaluate retained ownership, backgrounding, or delayed marketing options to capture seasonal price premiums. Document your contingency plans and review them annually with your veterinarian or extension specialist. ### Record System for Regional Decision Making Maintain the following records to support regional production decisions: - Monthly precipitation and temperature data for your location - Forage production estimates by pasture or field, including yield and quality analysis - Supplemental feed purchases by type, amount, and cost - Body condition scores of cows recorded at weaning, calving, and breeding - Calving dates, weaning weights, and calf mortality rates - Sale dates, weights, prices, and buyer information for all cattle sold - Transportation costs and shrink losses associated with shipping cattle - Veterinary and treatment records by animal and production group ### Troubleshooting Regional Production Problems When production problems arise, use the following troubleshooting approach: **Problem: Low weaning weights compared to regional benchmarks** Check: Forage quality and quantity during lactation, cow body condition at calving, calf health and parasite burden, and genetic potential of the herd. Compare weaning weights to regional benchmarks published by extension services and industry organizations. **Problem: High calf mortality** Check: Calving season timing relative to weather conditions, shelter availability, cow nutrition during late gestation, and calving management practices. If calf mortality exceeds 5 percent of calves born, consult a veterinarian. **Problem: Poor reproductive rates** Check: Cow body condition at breeding, bull fertility, disease status, and heat stress management. If herd reproductive rates fall below 85 percent calves weaned per cow exposed, consult a veterinarian or extension specialist. **Problem: Excessive feed costs** Check: Forage utilization efficiency, supplemental feed purchasing practices, and stocking rates relative to forage availability. If feed costs per cow exceed 60 percent of total production costs, evaluate alternative forage systems or reduce herd size. **Problem: Market price discounts** Check: Calf uniformity, health program compliance, and marketing timing. Evaluate retained ownership or value-added programs to capture premiums for consistent, healthy calves. ### Professional Escalation Criteria Consult a veterinarian, extension specialist, or industry consultant when: - Herd reproductive rates fall below 85 percent calves weaned per cow exposed - Calf mortality exceeds 5 percent of calves born - Average weaning weights are more than 20 percent below regional benchmarks - Feed costs per cow exceed 60 percent of total production costs - Range condition scores decline to poor or very poor categories - Disease outbreaks affect more than 5 percent of the herd - Financial losses persist for three consecutive years This decision framework provides a systematic approach to matching production systems to regional conditions. Producers should review their decisions annually and adjust based on changing climate patterns, market conditions, and operational goals. The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) provides technical assistance and conservation planning support for producers implementing grazing management and resource conservation practices. The Merck Veterinary Manual offers management and nutrition guidance for beef cattle producers across different production systems. ## Frequently Asked Questions ### What is the largest beef cattle producing state in the United States? Texas has the largest beef cattle inventory of any U.S. state, with operations concentrated in the Rolling Plains, Edwards Plateau, and Gulf Coast regions. The state benefits from extensive rangeland, mild winters, and proximity to major feedlot and packing infrastructure in the Texas Panhandle. ### How does Florida cattle production differ from Texas cattle production? Florida cattle production operates under subtropical conditions with high humidity, year-round warm temperatures, and significant parasite pressure. Herds in Florida are typically smaller than in Texas, and most calves are shipped to feedlots in other regions due to limited local feeding infrastructure. ### What factors influence regional differences in beef cattle production? Climate, forage availability, market access, and infrastructure are the primary factors driving regional differences. The Southern Plains and Midwest have strong feedlot and packing infrastructure, while the Southeast and Pacific Northwest have limited local processing capacity. Forage systems vary from native range in the Plains to improved pastures in the Southeast. ### How do producers in the Southeast manage heat stress in beef cattle? Southeastern producers manage heat stress by providing shade, ensuring adequate water access, timing calving to avoid the hottest months, and using breeds adapted to hot and humid conditions. Supplementation strategies may be adjusted during periods of extreme heat to maintain feed intake. ### What is the role of the Midwest in beef cattle production? The Midwest combines strong crop production with beef cattle feeding infrastructure. Nebraska and Kansas are leading states in cattle on feed, with large feedlots concentrated in areas with abundant corn and distillers grains supplies. Cow-calf operations in the Midwest benefit from access to crop residues and improved pastures. ### How does drought affect beef cattle production in the Southern Plains? Drought reduces forage availability, increases feed costs, and forces herd reductions in the Southern Plains. Producers must maintain flexible stocking rates, have drought management plans in place, and be prepared to purchase supplemental feed or reduce herd size during dry periods. ### What are the environmental considerations for beef cattle production by region? Environmental considerations include greenhouse gas emissions, water use, and land management. Research has evaluated environmental footprints of beef cattle production in the United States, showing regional differences in feed production, manure management, and transportation. Producers in arid regions face particular challenges with water availability. ### How can producers compare their operation to regional benchmarks? Producers can compare their operation to regional benchmarks by maintaining accurate records of herd inventory, reproductive rates, weaning weights, feed costs, and financial returns. Extension services and industry organizations publish regional benchmarks that allow producers to identify areas for improvement and evaluate their competitive position. ## Related Farming Guides - [Beef Cattle Forage Budgeting](/knowledge/animal-farming/beef-cattle/beef-cattle-forage-budgeting) - [Beef Cattle Crossbreeding System Planning](/knowledge/animal-farming/beef-cattle/beef-cattle-crossbreeding-system-planning) - [Beef Cattle Backgrounding Management](/knowledge/animal-farming/beef-cattle/beef-cattle-backgrounding-management) - [Beef Cattle Manure Management](/knowledge/animal-farming/beef-cattle/beef-cattle-manure-management) - [Beef Cattle Marketing Records](/knowledge/animal-farming/beef-cattle/beef-cattle-marketing-records) ## Related Clinical & Scientific Guides * [Cattle Head Gate Selection and Adjustment](/knowledge/animal-farming/beef-cattle/cattle-head-gate-selection-and-adjustment) * [Beef Cattle Handling Facility Flow](/knowledge/animal-farming/beef-cattle/beef-cattle-handling-facility-flow) * [Beef Cattle Maternity Pen Design: Comfort and Monitoring](/knowledge/animal-farming/beef-cattle/beef-cattle-maternity-pen-design-comfort-monitoring) ## References and Further Reading - [www.nrcs.usda.gov](https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/) - [www.merckvetmanual.com](https://www.merckvetmanual.com/management-and-nutrition) - [Metabolic Diseases in Beef Cattle.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37032297). The Veterinary clinics of North America. Food animal practice, 2023. - [Post-weaning management of modern dairy cattle genetics for beef production: a review.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36592743). Journal of animal science, 2023. - [Genotype-by-environment interactions in beef and dairy cattle populations: A review of methodologies and perspectives on research and applications.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39377556). Animal genetics, 2024. - [Phenotypic characterization of beef cattle breeds and production practices in Liberia.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29546550). Tropical animal health and production, 2018. - [Survey of smallholder beef cattle production systems in different agro-ecological zones of Cambodia.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26055891). Tropical animal health and production, 2015. - [Mitigating Greenhouse Gas and Ammonia Emissions from Beef Cattle Feedlot Production: A System Meta-Analysis.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30119602). Environmental science & technology, 2018. - [Changes in water footprint of beef cattle production in Southern Great Plains under changing climate](https://api.elsevier.com/content/abstract/scopus_id/84948653171). Asabe 1st Climate Change Symposium Adaptation and Mitigation, 2015. - [Competitiveness and comparative advantage in beef cattle production in the Sierra Norte of Puebla, Mexico](https://doi.org/10.22319/rmcp.v15i4.6530). Revista Mexicana De Ciencias Pecuarias, 2024. - [An evaluation of historical trends in New Mexico beef cattle production in relation to climate and energy](https://doi.org/10.3390/su11236840). Sustainability Switzerland, 2019. - [Environmental footprints of beef cattle production in the United States](https://doi.org/10.1016/j.agsy.2018.11.005). Agricultural Systems, 2019. - [Beef cattle farm development policies to overcome beef distribution problem in indonesia: A literature review](https://doi.org/10.3844/AJAVSP.2021.71.76). American Journal of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, 2021. > This article is educational and is not a substitute for veterinary diagnosis, treatment, public-health guidance, or regulatory reporting.