By Andi Anderson
High calf prices and steady input costs have made 2025 a strong year for cow-calf producers. But instead of relaxing, experts say now is the ideal time to review your cattle operation and make key improvements that will keep your farm profitable even when the market cools.
One important step is making sure your production system fits your market strategy. For example, producers with year-round calving may struggle to sell uniform groups of calves, resulting in lower prices.
Research shows that individual calves sold as “singles” can bring $60 less per head than similar calves sold in groups. That difference could mean profit or loss in tight years.
A solution is to join value-added sales programs like CPH (Certified Preconditioned for Health), which group calves for better marketing. Alternatively, controlling your calving season can help.
If you want to sell 800-pound calves in June, plan to calve between September and mid-October. University of Kentucky guides are available to help with reproductive planning and transitions.
Short calving seasons also reduce labor costs and boost efficiency. Research shows year-round calvers produce less weight and spend more money to raise their calves—an inefficient approach for small farms.
Another way to prepare is by improving herd “fitness.” This includes age, soundness, temperament, and expected calving date. If a cow doesn’t fit your ideal calving window, consider selling now while cull prices are high. Use this time to replace older cows and build a stronger, younger herd.
Look at infrastructure too. Improved handling systems and better grazing management can reduce stress, increase productivity, and save feed costs.
Sustainability isn’t just about the environment—it’s also about financial survival. Small producers must prepare for the future by investing smartly today. If your system remains profitable when markets drop, your farm is sustainable. If not, now’s the time to make changes. Small farms are essential to the beef industry’s future.
Photo Credit: istock-simplycreativephotography
Categories: Ohio, Livestock