Supplementation Matters – Navigating Trace Mineral Requirements of a Beef Herd

How can I best meet the mineral requirements of my beef herd? It comes as no surprise that the answer to this question is not a simple one. There are many factors impacting the mineral requirements of beef cattle such as stage of production, age, body condition and genetics, which are further compounded by the bioavailability of the mineral source provided and any antagonists that may be present in the diet. Regional variations in the trace mineral content of forages and soils creates high-risk areas where trace mineral deficiencies are more likely to occur. Supplemental sources need to be provided to prevent production declines, animal health events or reproductive wrecks. Recently published data from work led by Dr. Cheryl Waldner with the Western College of Veterinary Medicine in Saskatoon, SK, showed 64% of mature beef cows in Western Canada and 59% of mature beef cows in Eastern Canada have less than adequate copper status. This is based on data collected in 2019. “One of the t