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During times of high input costs and uncertain markets, it is particularly important to frequently monitor production as you feed your cattle and to keep good records.

This will enable you to make fast decisions and mid-course corrections as feed costs or cattle prices change, say University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension cattle experts. They offer these tips for what you should be monitoring:

• Cost of gain and breakeven should be continually monitored.
• Inventory analysis should be conducted daily or weekly.
• Feed mixing and weighing of ingredients should be monitored routinely.
• Evaluate cattle feed intake daily.
• Frequently analyze ration bunk samples.
• Measure feed waste and make adjustments when needed.
• Use a computer software program to estimate cattle gain and performance. Previous closeouts and records on cattle from a specific source could be used to estimate future performance.
• Monitor feed purchases monthly for billing or cost of feed adjustments.
• Annually evaluate health management program effectiveness.
• Non-feed costs should be monitored and adjusted annually using feedlot figures.
• Maintain and review your feedlot databases regularly.
• Continually evaluate all aspects of your feedlot enterprise.
• Always keep good records as they are essential to maximizing productivity.

Be sure to ask your Land O'Lakes feed representative about the new Visions™ Feedlot Performance and Cost Monitoring program.