Derrell S. Peel, Oklahoma State University Extension Livestock Marketing Specialist – Cow-calf producers can add significant value to calves prior to sale. A careful look at the auction reports reveals the value of calf production and marketing practices. Hopefully bull calves were castrated at branding time or earlier but, if not, castration should be done in plenty of time for steers to fully heal prior to sale. The most recent Oklahoma combined auction report shows that the average discount for bulls weighing 450-550 pounds was $62/head. The same applies to dehorning if needed. A research study from 2012 showed that…
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