Beef Brawl 2025 Focuses on Cattle Profitability Strategies

By Andi Anderson

Over the years, beef cattle production debates have shifted from calf size to cow efficiency and profitability measurements. To address these ongoing questions, Michigan State University Extension educators Phil Durst and Frank Wardynski will host the Beef Brawl 2025 webinar on May 6, 2025.

Instead of debating performance measures, Durst and Wardynski will tackle opposite sides of investment strategies. Durst will focus on increasing income, while Wardynski will emphasize cutting expenses to improve profitability.

Durst highlights that many producers lose profits by selling lightweight calves, often under 400 pounds. Market data shows these calves bring in significantly less total revenue compared to heavier ones.

For example, in 2024, price differences within weight groups ranged from $200 to over $400 per calf. Investing in earlier calving, better feed quality, and practices like rotational grazing and creep feeding could help calves reach higher weights and improve returns.

On the other hand, Wardynski stresses controlling expenses. Producers already achieving top sale prices should look for ways to fine-tune budgets without sacrificing herd health.

Evaluating vaccination programs, feed efficiency, and pasture management are key areas where costs can be reduced without major revenue losses. Improving pasture yields can also cut feed costs by relying more on grazing.

Durst further points out that reproductive success, heavily influenced by environmental factors, is critical for profitability. Maintaining body condition, using easy-calving bulls, and managing herd health all contribute to higher reproductive rates and better calf crops.

Wardynski counters that culling infertile females and challenging cattle nutritionally can save costs and naturally select better genetics, improving herd efficiency over time.

Data from the University of Nebraska and the FINBIN Livestock Analysis shows that high-profit cattle operations use a balanced approach: they cut unnecessary expenses while increasing calf production and sale prices.

Ultimately, Beef Brawl 2025 will show that strong management practices combining smart income growth and strategic cost control lead to lasting success in beef cattle production.

Photo Credit: michigan-state-university-msu-extension