Weaning operations are underway for a number of cattle producers. When it comes to weaning, timing and methods may vary, but the purpose is the same.

Calves are weaned to make sure that cows can recover their body condition after raising a calf all summer, and to allow for specialized feeding of those calves.

"It's really important to get those calves on feed as soon as possible," says Colby Elford, a regional livestock specialist with Saskatchewan Agriculture. "They require an energy-dense feed to make sure that they're growing and meeting their nutrient requirements. You know, you want to make sure you monitor those calves very closely. If there's any that aren't coming up to feed, it may be a sign of early sickness."

Minimizing stress makes for happy calves, spouses, and neighbors, and likely has economic benefits as well, especially for those who sell "reputation" cattle or retain ownership.

Elford also says if the cow has to support herself as well as a calf through the tough winter months, then she won't be able to keep her body condition where it needs to be for re-breeding.