Beef producers know that new calves are the lifeblood of the cow-calf business. They can all tell some nightmare stories about calving in less-than-ideal weather conditions.
Hoop barns offer versatility for calving
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Tom Ruskamp, a cow-calf producer from Dodge, Nebraska, becomes tired of battling the elements to protect new calves from the weather. He recently put up a hoop barn on his operation and is having positive results.
Tom Ruskamp says hoop barns are a unique way to shelter calves from the elements. They can be used for both beef and dairy cows.
Livestock farmer Jacob Schmidt, right, talks with folks in front of a new hoop barn used for calving and finishing cattle at Schmidt's farm in rural Camp Point, Illinois. The barn is designed to improve cattle comfort and performance, which in turn is expected to boost the operation's efficiency.
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