LIMOUSIN TODAY May_LimToday_WEB | Page 14

Management links in a chain. By making one choice, many other factors came into play. For example, they concluded that an operator with the ultimate goal of increasing the number of pounds weaned per cow could begin by investing in better quality breeding stock. This superior stock would deliver increased reproductive rates leading to higher calving percentages. The result would automatically lower the cost per unit and increase overall production spawning the desired pounds and ultimately higher profits. By the single investment in premium breeding stock, numerous boxes were checked. Another example was a producer choosing to improve their operation’s genetics. This vague goal could deliver desired cow frame size, enhanced growth, higher weight gains and efficient feed conversion benefits. Another tangent could provide desired docility, stronger maternal instincts, improved health plus color and appeal for potential buyers. Just like the links of a chain, choices are connected, but it isn’t magic. A wish to obtain desired choices without the corresponding actions is just a futile wish. None of these pieces of chain can deliver on their own without intervention. 12 | MAY 2019 In the example of producers purchasing superior breeding stock, reproductive rates and higher calving percentages will not be realized without proper feed supplies and attention during calving season. The resulting calf crop won’t deliver more weight per cow if health is ignored and the necessities of life are not offered at optimal levels. Instead of higher profits, there will be larger veterinarian bills, increased death losses and reduced financial results. Effective specific management has a synergistic effect when physical, mental and financial investments are made regarding production and efficiency. The bright spot is there is no shortage of chains and links that will materialize if the proper management skills are put in place. Maybe it’s good to take some guidance from the cat who had a specific result in mind and the process to make it happen. Producers don’t need to assume the role of the fox and dissect a massive list of possibilities, fretting that they will miss the important or fashionable ones, but simply begin by selecting areas where they consider upgrades to be needed. With the proper effort and discipline, these selections will be manifested with all the positive links of the chains that come with them. I