As published in the CattleMax September 2026 Newsletter.
A successful calving season starts well before the first calf arrives. Taking time now to review your herd, records, and supplies can help you stay organized and prepared when calving gets busy.
RANCHING SMARTER
5 Things to Do Before Fall Calving Starts
A successful calving season starts well before the first calf arrives. Taking time now to review your herd, records, and supplies can help you stay organized and prepared when calving gets busy.
1. Review Expected Calving Dates
Check breeding dates, pregnancy results, and expected calving dates so you know which cows are likely to calve first and need closer attention.
2. Check Your Breeding & Pregnancy Records
Make sure breeding information, sires, pregnancy results, and other key records are complete and up to date.
3. Prepare Your Calving Areas
Check pastures and pens for water, shelter, visibility, and easy access for checking cows and moving new pairs.
4. Take Inventory of Your Supplies
Check tags, medications, calving equipment, and other essentials now so you’re not scrambling once calves start hitting the ground.
5. Decide What You'll Record
Have a consistent plan for recording birth date, sex, dam, sire, birth weight, calving ease, identification, and health information.
CATTLEMAX TIP
Know When to Expect Your Calves
Breeding records can do more than document what happened months ago. CattleMax uses recorded breeding dates to calculate estimated calving dates, helping you see which cows are due and better prepare for the season ahead.
The Calving Screen gives you a weekly look at cows expected to calve, so you can stay organized as calving season gets underway.
CLASSES & EVENTS
Get More from CattleMax
Join upcoming classes, explore on-demand training, and connect with the CattleMax team at industry events.
CATTLEMAX COMMUNITY
Photo courtesy of McGill Cattle
Fall on the Ranch
Fall looks a little different on every operation. From new calves and working cattle to changing pastures and everyday ranch life, we’d love to see what fall looks like on yours.
We love seeing what’s happening on your ranch! Share your photos on social media and tag CattleMax for a chance to be featured.