Which phase comes first in the beef lifecycle?

The first phase in the beef lifecycle is cow/calf farms and ranches. This stage involves breeding and raising cows, where calves are born and nurtured until they are weaned. Cow/calf operations play a vital role in producing the foundational livestock for the beef supply chain. After calves are weaned, they are typically moved to the next phase, which might include stocker/backgrounder operations or directly into feedyards, depending on management practices and market conditions.

In this lifecycle, cow/calf operations are essential as they determine the health and quality of the calves that will eventually enter the market. Establishing strong genetics, proper nutrition, and effective herd management practices during this initial phase is crucial for ensuring the overall success of the beef industry and meeting consumer demands.