The dollar amounts, which are estimates of reduced revenue and increased costs, are broken down by storm and commodity. Total estimated costs are also provided.

This report presents estimates of production costs for beef cattle, dairy cattle and forage production in Louisiana for 2005.

Determining what level of milk production and feed cost yields the most profit for the farm should be the main objective of any measure of economic and production efficiency; because at the end of the day, the main thing that counts is the number of cwt produced and the amount of profit from each cwt. This is the economic indicator that tells you the total net income for the farm.

This study evaluates ways to take advantage of seasonal impact on dairy farms. Seasonal affects upon production, reproduction and health of Louisiana dairy cattle have been known for years. Consideration of these effects in making management decisions is important and can mean the difference between success or failure of a producer.

Ration quality and the level of feed consumed both play important roles in maximizing dairy farm profitability. Feedstuff analysis allows better appreciation of real cost and should be considered in ration formulation. Feed efficiency should be calculated and monitored to identify the most profitable cows of the herd and to evaluate the nutritional programs more closely and accurately.