Turning cull cows into cash flow: Strategic marketing at weaning

By Kim Ricardo, SDSU Extension
Nov 13, 2026
3 hrs ago

Cattle sale — Cattle run through the sale ring at Belle Fourche Livestock Market. SDSU Extension’s Heather Gessner said the market is particularly good for cull cows right now.
Tri-State Neighbor photo by Melisa Goss

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By Kim Ricardo, SDSU Extension

Evaluating and marketing cull cows may not be the most enjoyable part of ranch management, but it is essential for improving both the sustainability and profitability of a cow-calf operation.

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Kim Ricardo is a forage field specialist with South Dakota State University Extension, based at the Pierre Regional Center. Reach her at 605-773-8120 or kimberly.ricardo@sdstate.edu.