AEN-156: Using a Kit to Set up a Cattle Scale System under a Squeeze Chute

By Joshua Jackson
Published on Oct. 23, 2020

On cattle operations, the use of a scale system to weigh animals is vital to the proper administration of health products such as dewormers and antibiotics, and for making management decisions.

AEN-155: The Importance of Water Source Layout in Farm Infrastructure

By Steve Higgins
Published on Aug. 28, 2020

Water source layout is a critical infrastructure component for cattle and cattle producers. Strategic water resource layout is a part of a farmstead plan that does not always get adequate attention, despite its critical importance.

AEN-154: Land and Water Use Planning Applied to a Pasture-based Beef Operation

By Steve Higgins
Published on Aug. 6, 2020

A typical cow-calf grazing operation needs to feed and water cattle on a daily basis. Ideally, this is accomplished by rotating cattle from field to field and providing them with a convenient source of water to drink. Cattle operations can better manage cattle when facilities are designed to meet the needs of cattle and the producer.

AEN-153: How Understanding and Managing Soil Organic Matter Can Improve Beef Cattle Production

By Morgan Hayes and Steve Higgins
Published on Aug. 6, 2020

Beef cattle production is directly affected by soils, but active soil management is limited. Most producers' soil management decisions are limited to submitting a soil sample, getting the analysis back, and then applying the tons of fertilizer or lime recommended at the bottom of the sheet.

AEN-152: Building a Hoop Barn

By Joshua Jackson and Morgan Hayes
Published on Jul. 15, 2020

Hoop barns are a cost-effective alternative to pole barns. For example, a farmer might choose a hoop barn when deciding to expand hay sales, or for providing cover for costly equipment.

AEN-151: Lanes for Beef Cattle Operations

By Steve Higgins
Published on May. 14, 2020

The benefits of lanes can be applied to pasture-based Kentucky cattle operations of any size. Lanes can be used to move cattle from pasture to pasture, and to access structures or barns, handling facilities, load-out areas, and areas with shade.

AEN-150: Understanding Soil Mechanics to Improve Beef Cattle Winter-Feeding Areas and Production

By Morgan Hayes and Steve Higgins
Published on May. 14, 2020

Understanding soil mechanics and management in winter-feeding areas could improve beef cattle production, with less effort on the producer and cattle.

AEN-149: Heat Stress in Goats

By Joe Taraba, Katie Jackson, and Morgan Hayes
Published on Mar. 30, 2020

Heat stress is prevalent in most livestock species, but especially in dairy animals where large quantities of energy are necessary to sustain milk production. Both dairy goats in lactation and meat goats, which are being fed for growth, are susceptible to heat stress.

AEN-148: Considerations in Goat Barn Design

By Joe Taraba, Katie Jackson, and Morgan Hayes
Published on Mar. 30, 2020

Farmers who raise goats for meat or milk need guidance in the interrelated tasks of choosing a barn design and managing temperatures for their herd. Barn orientation, ventilation design, and stocking density are all important considerations which impact goats socially and physiologically, potentially impacting production.