Focus on Data, Mathematics for Profitable Cattle Operations

Ask any cattle producer their reason for going into business and few will tell you it was a love of mathematics. However, the often-overlooked skill is a critical component of managing successful, profitable cattle operations. Sound management decisions are the driving force to profit potential in the present and future and are only achieved through facts and data. Farmers and ranchers must resist the emotional aspects of on-farm business decisions as they seldom lead to beneficial financial outcomes.

So, how can producers approach decisions mathematically? Start with a clearly defined goal and determine the most efficient way to achieve it. Look at the resources available to you and leverage data to assess assets like soil profiles, cattle health and market conditions.

Read more on smart business decision-making here.