Nutrition Summer Series Wrap Up

Exploring the Future of Agriculture Leadership and Livestock Innovation: Nutrition Summer Series

Welcome to the Central Plains Milling and Frontier Nutrition Summer Series! In this exciting journey, we invite you to join us as we delve into the heart of modern agriculture, exploring cutting-edge advancements in feed, livestock, and agribusiness. The future of agriculture is here, and we’re proud to present our interns who are shaping the next generation of Ag leadership.

Unveiling Opportunities in Feed and Livestock Business

As the world’s population continues to grow, the demand for high-quality protein sources is on the rise. The feed and livestock industry stands at the forefront of meeting this demand, while also exploring sustainable and economically viable protein options. The Nutrition Summer Series takes you behind the scenes to discover the latest innovations in feed and livestock management, providing insights into the dynamic world of agriculture.

Stop 1: Miller Feed Lot – A Hub of Versatility

Our journey begins at the Miller Feed Lot, located south of Tecumseh. Steve Miller, accompanied by his partner Marie, proudly introduces us to their state-of-the-art facility. This impressive building, completed in February, represents the epitome of versatility and adaptability. With a myriad of possibilities, this facility stands ready to meet the ever-changing demands of the market.

Steve, a longtime customer of Frontier’s and a familiar face in Travis’ network, has collaborated closely with Travis to formulate ideal rations for his feedlot calves. The Miller Feed Lot is a testament to the harmonious partnership between innovation and tradition, as Steve explains how this building is perfectly tailored to cater to market needs. Join us as we uncover the secrets behind the Miller Feed Lot’s success and witness the seamless integration of technology and agriculture.

Stop 2: Stone Point Cattle Company – Elevating Genetics

Our next destination is the Stone Point Cattle Company. Here, we dive into the world of high-quality genetics that define the future of cattle farming. Colton, our host at Stone Point, guides us through their impressive collection of cattle, which includes the renowned Dixie Valley Angus from Monte California. This stop showcases the dedication to breeding and nurturing exceptional livestock with superior genetics, contributing to the overall improvement of the industry.

Culmination: A Day of Discovery

Our Nutrition Summer Series culminates in an inspiring day of exploration, education, and excitement. The tour takes us through the diverse landscape of agriculture, from versatile facilities like the Miller Feed Lot to the genetic mastery of Stone Point Cattle Company. Along the way, we meet passionate individuals who are not only shaping the future but also sharing their knowledge with the next generation of agricultural leaders.

As we wrap up this inaugural Nutrition Summer Series, we invite you to stay tuned for more upcoming installments. The journey is far from over, and the possibilities within the world of agriculture are limitless. Join us as we continue to uncover innovations, celebrate accomplishments, and ignite a passion for agribusiness leadership.

Intrigued? Don’t miss out on our video tour, where you’ll witness firsthand the remarkable stories and innovations that drive the Nutrition Summer Series. Stay connected with us for updates, insights, and a front-row seat to the future of agriculture.

Together, let’s cultivate a brighter, more sustainable future through the power of knowledge, collaboration, and pioneering spirit.

Happy Fourth of July!

SPRINGTIME HAPPENINGS.

We want to wish everyone a safe, Happy Fourth of July holiday!
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WHAT WE DO.

Looking for fly control solutions? The CPM 6000 with garlic and summer fescue works great for fly control and suppresses Grass Tetany!
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JUNE HAPPENINGS

We’ve been busy this summer and so have our customers!
Frontier made it to Shorthorn Jr. Nationals in Des Moines, IA!
CPM Show Feeds at the Chi/Maine Jr. Nationals! This is Kori Kersten's Maine heifer.
A big congratulations to Kaydn Braaten and the entire Braaten family on having the 4th Overall Crossbred Gilt this week at The Exposition!
Congratulations Stratman Family on Grand Champion Market Hog!

FAQ CORNER

Q: Do you have creep feeders available to use?
A: Yes! We have creep feeders that can be rented.

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We employ a diversified package of techniques to master the art of feed manufacturing from minerals to complete feeds. We provide an in-depth record system and feed sampling to back up our process and quality control points.

Time For Fly Control

Written by Alison Bishop, Retail Nutrition Advisor

Fly season is here! Did you know that just a few adult flies can quickly populate to 4,000 or more, per animal? What are you using for fly control on your animals? There are plenty of options and it’s all about what works best for your animals and your operation.

Have you considered feeding fly control through your feed or minerals? We have options for this treatment route. A very effective product for cattle, horses, goats, sheep, and pigs is the Purina High-Octane Fly Control Supplement with Clarify. You always want to start 30 days before the last frost in the spring and 30 days after the first frost in the fall for optimal results. This supplement works by passing through the animal’s digestive system, out into the manure where fly eggs are laid and so feeding recommendations by body weight and species are recommended. 

For cattle, considering insecticides, fly ear tags, pour-on’s or using loose mineral or mineral tubes in feed, are other options for help with fly control. When using loose minerals in feed, 4 oz per cow is the recommended amount. It’s important to watch the mineral intake on a regular basis and use a feeder for every 15-20 head of cow, with a water source nearby. Specific products we offer are Wind and Rain Storm All Season 7.5 Complete Altosid Fly Control Beef Cattle Mineral Feed, CPM6000, and Kent Framework 365 Mineral ADF AFC. Additionally, we offer tub form Wind & Rain AS 4 Tub Altosid and Purina EquiTub® Horse Supplement with Fly Control.

Enjoy the summer and help your animals do the same by controlling the flies! Need more information or still have questions? Reach out today and contact one of our Livestock Advisors.

Allison talks more about how and why she makes certain recommendations for her customers in this video. 

WELCOME TO OUR SUMMER INTERN

CPM would like to introduce Cameron Johnston from Columbus, Nebraska! This summer he will be the Livestock Nutrition Advisor intern at Central Plains Milling and will spend most of his time between the Columbus and Howells locations. 

Cameron is a senior at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, finishing his bachelor’s degree in Applied Science with a minor in the Nebraska Beef Industry Scholars program. If you see Cameron around this summer, tell him hi! 

Cameron Johnston, CPM's New Intern

HAVE CHICKS?

Do you have chicks, ducklings, or other recently hatched poultry? We offer the Chick Starter Medicated, which is 22.11% crude protein. You’ll want to feed this ration to your growing chicks from day 1 to 21 days old. 

POULTRY PRODUCTS

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We employ a diversified package of techniques to master the art of feed manufacturing from minerals to complete feeds. We provide an in-depth record system and feed sampling to back up our process and quality control points.

Effective Fly Control Solutions for Livestock during Fly Season

Fly control during fly season

Fly season is here, and it’s time to implement effective fly control measures for your animals. Flies can quickly multiply, causing discomfort and health issues. Feed fly control supplements and use targeted products to keep your livestock healthy.

Feeding Fly Control Supplements

Feed Purina High-Octane Fly Control Supplement with Clarify to cattle, horses, goats, sheep, and pigs. It passes through the digestive system, targeting fly eggs in the manure. Start feeding 30 days before the last frost in spring for optimal results.

Alternative Fly Control Options

Consider insecticides, fly ear tags, pour-on treatments, loose minerals, and mineral tubes for fly control in cattle. Provide 4 oz of loose minerals per cow, monitor intake, and ensure feeders and water sources are accessible. Recommended products:

  1. Wind and Rain Storm All Season 7.5 Complete Altosid Fly Control Beef Cattle Mineral Feed(CPM6000)
  2. Kent Framework 365 Mineral ADF AFC: Another high-quality mineral option for cattle, this product aids in fly control and provides essential nutrients for overall herd health.
  3. Wind & Rain AS 4 Tub Altosid: Available in tub form, this product offers convenient fly control for cattle while providing necessary mineral supplementation.
  4. Purina EquiTub® Horse Supplement with Fly Control: For horse owners, this supplement offers fly control along with essential nutrients to support their horses’ well-being.

Conclusion

Fly season can be a challenging time for livestock owners, but with the right fly control measures in place, you can help your animals stay comfortable and healthy throughout this period. Feeding fly control supplements, such as the Purina High-Octane Fly Control Supplement with Clarify, can be highly effective in reducing fly populations on your farm. Additionally, alternative options like insecticides, fly ear tags, and mineral feeds provide valuable solutions for fly control.

Ensure you start implementing fly control measures well in advance of the fly season to achieve optimal results. If you have any questions or need further information, don’t hesitate to reach out to our knowledgeable Livestock Advisors. Enjoy the summer and create a fly-free environment for your livestock!

Feel free to Contact Us to get your fly control in check!

Written by Allison Bishop

Choosing the Right Chicken Feed: A Complete Guide

Choosing the Right Chicken Feed

When embarking on the journey of raising chickens, one of the initial considerations is their choosing the right chicken feed. Selecting the appropriate feed, whether medicated or non-medicated, can significantly impact the health, growth, and productivity of your birds. Central Plains Milling offers a range of high-quality chicken feeds that cater to various stages of poultry development. In this article, we’ll explore their product line and discuss the benefits of medicated and non-medicated feeds for different purposes.

  1. Multi-Purpose Poultry Supplement: Central Plains Milling provides a Multi-Purpose Poultry Supplement with 27% crude protein, suitable for all types of poultry and game birds. This non-medicated feed contains essential vitamins, minerals, and calcium necessary for optimal growth and health.
  2. Chick Starter Medicated: For growing chicks aged 1 to 21 days, the Chick Starter Medicated feed is an excellent choice. With 22.11% crude protein, this feed supports healthy development during this crucial stage. The medication helps prevent coccidiosis and effectively eliminates parasites while ensuring continued growth.
  3. CPM Layer Feed: The CPM Layer Feed, boasting 17.5% crude protein, is a highly recommended option for laying hens. This complete feed is suitable as the sole ration for hens over 18 weeks old. Enriched with vitamin D and manganese, it promotes stronger eggshells and overall hen well-being. Switching to this feed resulted in improved egg quality, consistent size, and harder shells for our hens compared to other brands.

Benefits of Central Plains Milling Feed

By choosing Central Plains Milling feed, you can expect the following advantages:

Enhanced Molting Stage

The 17.5% protein content in the CPM Layer Feed aids hens during the molting stage, promoting faster recovery and reduced duration. Chickens showed increased appetite and efficient feed consumption, leading to healthier, more resilient hens.

Consistent Egg Size and Quality

The CPM Layer Feed resulted in a steady production of solid, well-formed eggs. The improved nutritional profile of the feed contributed to better egg quality, meeting consumers’ expectations consistently.

Competitive Pricing

Central Plains Milling offers its high-quality feed at a price point that is both competitive and comparable to other commonly available feeds in the market. Quality need not come at an exorbitant cost.

Medicated vs. Non-Medicated Feed

The decision to use medicated or non-medicated feed depends on various factors. If starting birds on medication feed, it is advisable to continue until switching to a layer feed. Medicated feed helps prevent coccidiosis and effectively eliminates parasites, supporting the birds’ overall growth and health.

Conclusion on Choosing the Right Chicken Feed

Selecting the right chicken feed is crucial for the health, growth, and productivity of your flock. Central Plains Milling offers a range of high-quality options, including the Multi-Purpose Poultry Supplement, Chick Starter Medicated, and CPM Layer Feed. These feeds provide essential nutrients, minerals, and proteins required for different stages of poultry development. Whether choosing medicated or non-medicated feed, Central Plains Milling ensures that your chickens receive the optimal nutrition they need for thriving and producing quality eggs.

Article written by Allison Bishop

Avoiding Grass Tetany

SPRINGTIME HAPPENINGS.

Springtime finds all of us working more outside and enjoying the weather. Everyone on our team at CPM is busy manufacturing for spring calving season with the anticipation of summer pasture and beef creep season. CPM is enthusiastic about our producers. We manufacture and advise for large livestock operations and for small livestock operations.

Let’s talk about small operations. Whether you are raising chickens in your backyard or feeding out your own pork or beef, CPM has solutions for your feed needs. Our philosophy is to keep nutrition simple and locally produced. All of our Poultry, Swine, Goat, Sheep, and Beef feeds are made in Nebraska with Nebraska ingredients. We take the time to evaluate each ingredient that goes into your feed ensuring that it is safe for your livestock and nutritionally required. Our company does not believe in…

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WHAT WE DO.

Cory Miller, Sales Team Leader talks more about what Central Plains does and why it’s important in the video below.

Click the image to watch!

Click the image to watch!

Contact Us

CONTINUING EDUCATION.

PREVENTING GRASS TETANY.

Springtime is here! The grass gets greener, and producers are excited to get their cows out on pasture, but as a producer, did you properly prepare your cows for that lush green grass? Death from grass tetany can occur very rapidly. Luckily, there is an inexpensive “insurance policy” to help prevent it. Magnesium!

Grass tetany occurs when magnesium becomes deficient in the cow. The grass is high in potassium, nitrogen, calcium, and phosphorus. When a cow starts consuming lush grass, high in these nutrients, it interferes with magnesium absorption. Lactating cows also require an increased amount of magnesium. These factors during the spring, increase the risk for grass tetany in your herd…

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SHOW SEASON.

It’s show season and we have products specially formulated for this purpose. Learn more about our show products!

Show Products & Services

Grass Tetany: Causes & Prevention

Springtime is here! The grass gets greener, and producers are excited to get their cows out on pasture, but as a producer, did you properly prepare your cows for that lush green grass? Death from grass tetany can occur very rapidly. Luckily, there is an inexpensive “insurance policy” to help prevent it. Magnesium!

Grass Tetany Causes

Grass Tetany Causes

Grass tetany occurs when magnesium becomes deficient in the cow. Grass is high in potassium, nitrogen, calcium, and phosphorus. When a cow starts consuming that lush grass, high in these nutrients, it interferes with magnesium absorption. Lactating cows also require an increased amount of magnesium. These factors during the spring, increase the risk for grass tetany in your herd.

How to Prevent?

Prevention starts with feeding a high magnesium mineral or mixing magnesium by hand into your mineral for three weeks before turnout and then continued until grass matures (usually about three weeks after turnout). The University of Nebraska-Lincoln recommends feeding about 10 to 20 grams of magnesium per day. 

Prevention is the best method to manage grass tetany. Contact your CPM nutrition advisor for more information and to get set up with magnesium before you send your herd to those green, lush pastures.

Written by Carly Steffensmeier,

Livestock Advisor

Spring Happenings at CPM

Spring time finds all of us working more outside and enjoying the weather, and here are some spring happenings at CPM. Everyone on our team at CPM is busy manufacturing for spring calving season with the anticipation of summer pasture and beef creep season. CPM is enthusiastic about our producers. We manufacture and advise for large livestock operations and for small livestock operations. 

Russ Vering, Managing Partner/Large Account Sales/Owner, talks about Spring Happenings at CPM.
Russ Vering, Managing Partner/Large Account Sales/Owner at CPM

Let’s talk about small operations

Whether you are raising chickens in your back yard or feeding out your own pork or beef, CPM has solutions for your feed needs. Our philosophy is to keep nutrition simple and locally produced. All of our Poultry, Swine, Goat, Sheep, and Beef feeds are made in Nebraska with Nebraska ingredients. We take the time to evaluate each ingredient that goes into your feed ensuring that it is safe for your livestock and nutritionally required. Our company does not believe in fluff or fillers. All of our decisions are research driven and good for the longevity of your herd or flock. Fluff or buzz words are constantly used to sell feed. CPM engages with the best technology in the nutrition business to bring you the best results. You will not see buzz words on our tag unless they actually create a benefit for your herd or flock. 

It’s Also Show Season

Spring also means show season and we are amping up for a doozy this year. CPM is continuously engaged with county fair projects and sponsoring youth show events. From Iowa to Montana CPM supports youth agriculture shows. We believe that the future of agriculture starts with a show project supported by family and youth clubs. Our team believes in agriculture and the resilience of farmers small and large where you can do business with a handshake and trust us to do our part.

We appreciate your business and look forward to partnering on more projects with you in the future!

Are You Creep Feeding?

ARE YOU CREEP-FEEDING?

Carly Steffensmeier, Livestock Advisor talks more about the benefits in the article below.

Looking to increase the weaning weight on your calves? Searching for ways to improve your bottom line? Creep-feeding calves is a great solution and one that is almost always a return on investment. Let’s take a look at why you should utilize creep feed, its benefits, and what options Central Plains Milling has for your calves.

In a cow/calf operation, gross income is partially going to depend on the weaning weight of calves. Typically, a lactating cow can supply about 50% of the nutrients that a calf needs to maximize its growth potential. Grass and creep feed is able to supply the other 50% that the calf is needing. Calves that are supplemented properly can convert on average 4 pounds of feed to 1 pound of gain. Creep feeding for approximately 100 days should add around 60-plus pounds of weaning weight. More pounds on a calf to sell equals an increase in revenue.

In addition to increased weaning weights, creep feed has many other benefits. Supplementing creep feed to calves can help relieve pressure on the cow’s milk production. Relieving some pressure off the cow can also make an impact on its overall body condition. When it comes time to wean, your calves will be used to coming to feed and typically transition to a feed bunk easier. This in turn will make the weaning process less stressful on your calves.

Central Plains Milling provides quality creep feeds that are superior to most on the market. We have two different forms of creep available: pelleted or meal. Our pelleted creep is called “CPM Calf Creep” and our meal creep is called “CPM 4000 Creep”. CPM Calf Creep (pelleted) is 14% protein and is formulated with Bovatec with the option of adding CTC if needed. CPM 4000 Creep (meal) is a 16% protein that utilizes the power of dried distillers grains and has options to have Rumensin, Bovatec, or CTC added. Both creep feeds have Availa-4 and Diamond V XPC in them. We utilize Availa-4 in our creep to help decrease the effects of stress, strengthen immune systems, and increase average daily gain in your calves. Diamond V helps support digestive tissue and promotes a healthy microbial balance for calf immunity and overall health. If you are interested in maximizing your calf’s potential on creep, contact our Livestock Feed Advisors today!

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HELPING TO SOLVE CHALLENGES.

Janessa Smola, Livestock Advisor talks about working with her clients to help solve some of the challenges they are up against.

Click the image to watch!

Click the image to watch!

MEET SHAWN.

Meet Shawn! He’s weighing micro ingredients at our Columbus facility.

Do you have questions about what you are feeding or the best approach? Contact us today and one of our Livestock Feed Advisors would be happy to answer any questions you might have!

SHOW SEASON.

Show season is upon us! Are you ready? We’ve got the products you need to get your animals in tip-top condition. To learn more about our options, please visit our website page specifically dedicated to our Show Products.

Show Products & Services

Weaning Show Pigs

Here are some important tips that will enhance growth and muscle development of your weaning show pigs. The Lindner system of starters has been designed to maximize growth and development of your show pig. 

Lindner starters 600-603-606-612 and 648 are designed specifically for the exact stage of digestive development for your pig. Keep in mind that all simple stomach animals like pigs require specific types of feeds early on in development. Initially your show pig while on the sow will be highly efficient at digesting milk proteins and fats. Milk proteins are simple and highly digestible for newly farrowed show pigs. You can see in the chart below that Lactase enzymes decreases with time while Amylase and Protease increase. This is an important transition for a young pig, moving from sows’ milk to dry feed (more complex proteins and fats). Lindner feeds are positioned to match this transition in digestive enzymes for your pig’s stomach ensuring an easy transition to dry feed while maximizing the performance of your show pig.

Weaning Show Pigs through Lindner System of Starters
Source: http://www.omafra.gov.on.ca/english/livestock/swine/facts

Weaning Show Pigs Recommendations

Preweaning and weaning– feed Lindner 600 Neo Starter. Lindner 600 creates the proper transition to dry feed. Best if creep fed several days before weaning. 

Post weaning Transition –move your pig to Lindner 603. 603 will ensure that stomach enzymes are matched to maximize digestibility and gut health of your show pig.

Next step is 606 Blitz or 612 Starter –Once your pig hits 5 to 6 weeks and daily feed intake is aggressive transition your pig to 606 Blitz for sale bloom, or 612 Starter for pigs you are retaining to show or sell later. 

Questions?

  1. Can I skip steps in this feeding program?
    • Skipping diets early on in a pig’s life will delay his development later and can even cause significant health complications. 600 and 603 are essential to proper development of the pigs lean gain growth curve. Shorting your pig at the early stage can reduce the guts’ ability to absorb nutrients resulting in permanent damage of your pig performance.
  2. Transitioning challenged pigs good or bad?
    • Transitioning pigs is very important. Healthy pigs transition easily while challenged pigs struggle with changes in diet. Make sure that when you transition to your next diet pigs are eating aggressively and are active.
  3. What diet do you recommend for receiving 40–50-pound pigs?
    • 648 is a great transition diet. High protein and the correct balance of amino acids. Palatability of this diet is excellent getting pigs transitioned and started aggressively in a new environment with new stresses. 
  4. What is the economic and physical cost of cutting out starter diets?
    • A good rule of thumb is 5 pounds of lost gain in the nursery phase of a pigs life becomes 25 pounds of lost gain at market. Pigs are much more efficient at building muscle early in the phases of their life. As pigs mature the conversion of actual lean and muscle is much less efficient.