Raising Replacement Heifers — What Does It Cost?

Sep 14, 2023

Understanding the cost of developing replacement heifers is crucial for informed decision-making. The most significant factor in heifer development cost is the opportunity cost of forgoing revenue from selling calves at weaning. Each heifer kept for the breeding herd is one less calf to sell in the fall – the cost of the opportunity for fall revenue that’s being given up.

With cattle prices currently at record highs, the opportunity cost is at its peak. Producers should consider the long-term economic implications of raising replacement heifers and remain aware of potential market volatility throughout the heifer’s lifespan.

beef cattle research council replacement heifer calculator
Are you looking for a simple tool to calculate the cost of developing replacement heifers? We’ve got you covered! The new BCRC Replacement Heifer Calculator is a decision-making tool adapted from a calculator originally developed by the Western Beef Development Centre.

Click here to see more...

Video: California Farm Bureau 2025 Farm Dog of the Year Contest Winner - Willy - CAFB 107th Annual Meeting

Meet Willy: California Farm Bureau’s 2025 Farm Dog of the Year!

We’re excited to introduce Willy, a miniature long-haired dachshund with a big heart and even bigger courage, and the Grand Prize winner of this year’s Farm Dog of the Year Contest!

Willy may be small, but he’s become an indispensable partner on owner Marshal Hagedorn’s forestry and cattle operations in Shasta, Tehama, and Siskiyou counties. Adopted in 2023, he quickly found his place on the ranch, helping manage critters, tagging along for long days in the woods, and offering unwavering companionship during demanding logging work.

Willy has even taken naturally to moving cattle, surprising calves (and more than a few full-grown cows!) with his burst of energy from the tall grass. As Marshal put it: “He goes with me everywhere every single day.”

Congratulations to Willy and his family, a perfect example of how every good farm dog, no matter the size, helps keep California agriculture running strong.