Snapshot of rancher perspectives on creative cattle management options

Abstract

We assessed rancher perceptions of three creative management strategies (heritage genetics, precision ranching, and alternate supply chain options) at the 2020 Southwest Beef Symposium. Nearly all cattle producers (n = 36), mostly from Texas and New Mexico, currently monitor rainfall and more than half are interested in additional rainfall information. Some producers would consider using animal tracking sensors (31%), rainfall sensors (42%), and water level sensors (50%). Most producers surveyed raise British breeds (72%), but some (11%) are interested in learning about Spanish Heritage breeds. Nearly all (33 of 36) respondents self-identified as ranchers, with nearly half (16 of 33) knowing where their cattle are finished at least some of the time. Eight of 36 survey respondents indicated grass-finishing and other supply chain options as the topic most immediately applicable to their operation. Please see the project website (https://southwestbeef.org/) for newsletters, on-ranch demonstrations, and research updates. © 2020 The Society for Range Management