Russ In Idaho - 12/25/2023 22:56

This question has been kicked around my head for a long time. I read here about guys feeding minerals year round. Feed supplements, etc. I realize I run in a totally different world than most. Yes we do make our cows, freight them, or at least a majority of them do. Some never see a bale of hay generally after they turn 2 years of age. Some get supplemental for 5 months, some less.

I just smile at every new feed salesman, pulling up going to sell me the best mineral, lic tub, etc. I tell them I buy less than 1 to 2 ton of minerals a year, same on protein tubs as well. I give them my breed back rates, cull rates and weaning weights on sale day. I ask them what's broke in system? When I can keep right at national avg's or under, how can they fix it for me? Everyone of them I tell them to put their money where their mouth is. I offer for them to buy product, we'll run test. And I'll spilt increase with them. So say I take my non breeders from 4-6% down to 2-3% are they willing to take the bet?

I ask these people what are national avg's I should be comparing my herd to. Not one of them can give me what Gasman did tonight. I again thank Gasman for posting that. It just kind of shoots their sale down, when I ask them what's broke in my system.

.