The following publications cover topics related to Beef Extension. For a complete list of MU Extension publications, visit the main Publications page.
Vaccination Program for a Cow-Calf Operation
New
An overview of a vaccine program for a cow-calf operation, covering the viruses and bacteria of concern, the difference between killed and modified live viral vaccines, and an example of a vaccine schedule.
Introduction to Beef Cow Leases
New
Leasing beef cows can be a cost-effective strategy for new or expanding producers, offering reduced capital investment and risk compared to purchasing.
Beef Feeding Profitability Tracker
New
Learn how to use the Beef Feeding Profitability Tracker tool, a financial analysis spreadsheet tool for small to mid-size cattle feeders to use free of charge.
Missouri Slaughter and Inspection Requirements for Livestock and Poultry Producers
Revised
Missouri meat producers must register and meet inspection requirements to sell meat legally. Learn about species-specific regulations and compliance.
Beef Backgrounding Planning Budget
Revised
Use this budget to estimate costs and returns for backgrounded steer calves in Missouri, and summarize detailed assumptions and feed requirements.
Yearling Beef Steer Feeding Planning Budget
Revised
Use this budget to estimate costs and returns for Missouri yearling beef steers bought in November and sold in April.
Beef Heifer Planning Budget
Revised
Use this budget to estimate costs and returns for buying beef heifer calves and selling them as bred replacement heifers in Missouri.
Alfalfa Baleage Planning Budget
Revised
Use this enterprise budget as a guide to estimate your production costs and returns when producing alfalfa baleage as a forage crop on Missouri farms.
Alfalfa Small Bales Planning Budget
Revised
Use this enterprise budget to plan how to produce, finance and market alfalfa sold as small hay bales in Missouri. It links to the Missouri Forage Budget Generator spreadsheet.
Corn Silage Planning Budget
Revised
Use this crop enterprise budget as a guide to estimate your production costs and revenues when growing corn silage on Missouri farms.
Native Warm-Season Grass Planning Budget
Revised
Use this enterprise budget to plan costs and returns for establishing and managing native warm-season grass forages for hay and pasture on Missouri farms.
Missouri Beef Cow-Calf Planning Budget
Revised
Use this budget to estimate costs and returns for a beef cow-calf operation (50-cow herd and purchased replacements) in Missouri for fall or spring calving season.
On-Farm Beef Finishing Planning Budget
Revised
Estimate costs and returns for beef cattle finishing in Missouri with 2025 planning data to support informed farm management decisions.
Livestock Risk Protection (LRP) Insurance
Revised
See how LRP insurance helps farmers manage market price volatility risk. Missouri producers may apply for feeder cattle, fed cattle, lamb and swine policies.
Cash Rental Rates in Missouri
Revised
Updated with 2024 survey data, this guide provides average cash rental rates for Missouri cropland and pastureland, aiding informed lease decisions.
Farmland Values for Midwestern States
Revised
Find farmland value price trends in Missouri and other Midwestern states since 1912.
How to Use the Hair Shedding Scale
New
Hair shedding scores represent a visual appraisal of the extent an animal has shed their winter coat. This MU Extension guide is meant to provide further detail and guidance on hair shed scoring animals.
Hair Shedding Scores: A Tool to Select Heat Tolerant Cattle
Revised
Learn how hair shedding scores can help select heat-tolerant cattle, improving productivity and adaptability in challenging environments.
Feeding Poultry Litter to Beef Cattle
Reviewed
Poultry litter can be used as a feedstuff, but it presents special consumer issues. Visit our site to learn about Feeding Poultry Litter to Beef Cattle.
Strip-Grazing Milo as a Low-Cost Winter Forage
New
Learn how to utilize strip-grazing milo as a cost-effective winter forage option for livestock, reducing feed expenses and enhancing pasture management.
Pasture, Rangeland, Forage (PRF) Insurance in Missouri
Revised
Protect your grazing or hay farming operation from drought risk. Get tips and examples for understanding how PRF insurance works and choosing a policy.
Evaluating Direct-to-Consumer Marketing Opportunities for Local Beef in Missouri
New
Explore strategies for Missouri beef producers to market directly to consumers, including selling by the cut or in shares, to enhance profitability.
Pasture Fence Construction Budget
New
Detailed cost estimates for building perimeter and interior fences on Missouri farms, including materials, labor, and equipment.
Native Warm-Season Grass Seed Production
New
Learn how to grow and care for common houseplants, including tips on light, watering, humidity, and pest control.
Missouri Fencing and Boundary Laws
Reviewed
Learn about Missouri fencing and boundary laws, including duties, rights, and resolving disputes between landowners regarding fences and boundaries.