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The New Year - Calving Season

Jan 02, 2026

Mineral & Creep Feed Season

Cow mineral and creep feed bookings start this month. With spring calving season approaching, now is a great time to evaluate your current mineral program for any gaps or opportunities to improve. A proper mineral program is crucial during calving to minimize issues and give calves the best start before heading to grass.

We should also take this time to assess the herd’s overall Body Condition Score (BCS) to ensure cow nutrition is adequate for calving. For cows, we aim for at least a 5.5, and for first-calf heifers, a 6. This is important to support good milk production and prepare cows for the upcoming breeding season. If you need help evaluating BCS, reach out to your local Premier Cooperative representative.

The upcoming months are also ideal for creep feed bookings. Creep feed is an excellent way to add weight to calves while providing nutrients that support overall health. We offer extended booking periods, and a Premier representative can help you budget and review pricing trends. We also fill creep feeders in pastures, but please ensure there is a solid, level road leading to the feeder. Placement matters - choose a dry, easily accessible location so calves can reach it without extra effort, similar to their mineral feeder.

This is also a great time to consult your veterinarian about any herd health concerns and confirm that vaccination and treatment protocols are up to date before calving. Whether you’re a beef, dairy, or other type of producer, this season is perfect for discussing what’s working and identifying areas for improvement with your trusted advisors.

If you have questions or need assistance with your mineral or creep feed program, don’t hesitate to contact your local Premier Cooperative representative.

Adam Hoppman
Livestock Nutritionist

Mar 31, 2026

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As spring inches closer, it gets more tempting each day to fire up the tractor and get in the field. However, deciding when to plant is one of the first (of many) management decisions that will impact your crop’s performance this season. Here are six tips to help you decide the right time to put your corn and soybean seeds in the ground.

Mar 31, 2026

In case you skipped Matt’s article to get to your favorite section of the newsletter, Farmers Union Cooperative of Ossian, IA will be merging into Premier Cooperative on August 1st. I’ve been there a couple of times, and I’m really impressed with their staff, facilities and rolling stock. Their energy division is rock solid, and I am very excited to begin working with them.