The North Dakota Beef and Sheep Report is an annual publication of research reports from across the NDSU system on beef or sheep related research. This year we also will highlight a few Extension programs in short reports as well.

Successful beef production begins with good records. CHAPS™ (Cow Herd Appraisal Performance Software) is a web-based recordkeeping and analysis application for cow-calf operations. CHAPS™ can help producers track inventories, evaluate cow profitability, and monitor herd reproduction and calf performance.

This report has several short research reports from researchers conducting research on beef cattle and sheep and associated topics. The target audience is people associated with the beef and sheep industries in North Dakota and elsewhere.

The focus of this publication is to highlight alternative practices for consideration as an alternative to winter animal confinement in a feedlot. Advantages and disadvantages are highlighted based on available research.