In this episode of Under the Covers, Bill and James talk cows…or more accurately, Bill explains cows while James asks the questions.

James recently went all in on the cow business with two semi-loads of black cows. This episode turns into a real-world conversation about systems, management styles, and lessons learned over the years. From calving seasons and bull selection to grazing management and toxic fescue, the conversation turns into a real-world discussion between someone just getting started and someone who’s been doing it for decades.

The guys also dig into:

• Why James wants to calve in June instead of spring
• The challenges of managing heifers for the first time
• What Bill looks for when selecting bulls
• Why both guys prefer grazing over confinement systems
• The economics (and frustrations) of putting up hay
• Managing toxic fescue in pastures
• Why diversified farms may matter more in the future

The episode also touches on the bigger picture: building farming systems that work together instead of treating crops, cattle, and feed as separate operations.

If you’ve ever thought about getting cows, this one’s for you.

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