The Joys of Calving Season

Every year we eagerly anticipate spring and calving season here on our farm. Each step of the process seems like an exciting event: weaning calves, moving the cows onto spring grass after a long winter on the lot, and then the grand finale is baby calves.

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This year we made a few changes in our grazing management by separating the young stock and the momma cows. We typically run the entire herd together for better grazing impact, but we seemed to be having trouble keeping track of the new babies so we decided to try something different.

So far we have had one set of twins which is always a highlight for us. It has been great to have a small herd and so much less stress for the mommas and babies. Even though we’ve had cattle for over 20 years, we are still learning and trying to improve our system.

Even though this season means extra work for us, we strive to appreciated the moment for what it is -- a new beginning on the farm. In many ways it is simply magical the way these little bundles of new life slip into the world so quietly. No matter how many years we’ve done this it's something we try not to take for granted.

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Calving season is filled with fun, frustration, cuteness, calf chases and searches packed into a busy six to eight weeks usually during planting and hay making. It is by far the busiest time of year, but still incredibly special.

Sure, things do not always go as planned -- a calf might die, or a cow might not take her baby -- but when it does go right, calving season is the perfect time to renew our spirits and bolster your enthusiasm for the future.These little bitty babes are our future. Their coming marks the beginning of a new generation to be tagged, nursed, sorted, weaned, grazed, loved, hauled, butchered, and sold to you. Then, you are nourished by the delicious meat they provided.

Our family made a video to help you experience just a little taste of calving season. Enjoy!