Cow–calf operation

Cow–calf operations generally raise their stock primarily on pasture and other forms of roughage rather than grain feeds,[7] though they may provide vitamin and mineral supplementation.

Pastures may be native or "improved" with forage designed to withstand grazing pressure and help animals gain weight.

[9] Conversely, in countries such as Brazil and Argentina, cow–calf operations may be forced to use more marginal grazing because of changes in the value of land due to high prices for cash crops like soybeans.

[9] Sale prices for calves sold from a cow–calf operation are subject to fluctuation as part of the cattle cycle of financial markets.

[12] The relatively long period it takes a cow–calf operator to build up a beef herd and raise new calves to the desired weight tends to extend the length of such a cycle.

The southern calves are typically reared on pasture and sold as weaners, yearlings or as steers at about two years old or older.

[16] Heytesbury Beef Pty Ltd owns and manages over 200,000 head of cattle across eight stations spanning the East Kimberley, Victoria River and Barkly Tablelands regions in Northern Australia.

A variety of selling methods are used in Australia and cattle may be sold as studs, store or finished stock.