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With feed prices making up a large share of cow herd costs, lower-cost grazing options like crop residue or winter range can be attractive, even when cattle need to be hauled some distance. When entering into a winter cow care or grazing arrangement, putting expectations in writing can help things run more smoothly and protect both parties.
The goal of a good agreement is simple: no surprises. Written agreements help clearly define responsibilities, costs, and risk so both the cattle owner and care provider know what’s expected before cattle ever arrive. Verbal agreements may work in good years, but when weather, markets, or animal health issues arise, clear documentation becomes especially important.
Start with the basics—when cattle will arrive and leave, how many animals are involved, how they’re identified, and whether there are performance or body condition expectations. Clearly defining these items up front helps avoid confusion later, especially if conditions change during the winter.
Health management should also be spelled out. Agreements should address how sick cattle will be handled, who is notified, who makes treatment decisions, and who pays for veterinary and medication costs. It’s also wise to identify a veterinarian ahead of time and clarify when cattle may need to be moved for care.
Death loss and missing cattle are uncomfortable topics, but they need to be addressed before cattle are turned out. Agreements should define how losses are verified, how animal value is determined, and whether there is an acceptable level of death loss assigned to the owner before additional responsibility shifts to the care provider.
Feeding expectations are another key piece. This includes what cattle will graze, when supplemental protein or energy may be needed due to snow, ice, or forage conditions, and how those decisions are made. Assigning body condition scores when cattle arrive—and discussing acceptable condition targets during the care period—can help keep nutrition decisions objective and transparent.
Other items to consider include fence training and problem animals, whether herds will be commingled and what vaccination requirements apply, payment timing and terms, inspection rights, and how either party can terminate the agreement if conditions change unexpectedly.
Winter cow care arrangements rely heavily on trust, especially when working with someone new. Taking time to check references on both sides is a smart risk management step. Winter grazing can be a cost-effective option when forage is tight, but a clear written agreement is one of the best tools available to protect everyone involved. If you have questions, your local Extension office is happy to help.
-Ben Beckman is a beef systems Extension Educator northeast Nebraska. He is based out of the Cedar County Extension office in Hartington. You can reach him by phone: (402) 254-6821 or email: [email protected]
