1. What is the appropriate cow size for the herd using the 50% weaning rule?
Considering 50% weaning rule, the cow size of 1200 lbs is appropriate for herd in which the
weaning calf wright is the closet to 50% of the cow weight i.e. 51.4% to be precise.
2. Compare the value of a calf to the cost of maintaining the cow as an alternative
means of determining appropriate cow size. Hint: Calculate marginal revenue and
marginal expense. Which method (50% weaning rule or marginal analysis) do you think
provides the best measure? Why?
Average cow weight 1000 lbs 1100 lbs 1200 lbs 1300 lbs 1400 lbs
Revenue per calf $631.8 $659.88 $666.36 $659.88 $636.12
Marginal Revenue per
$28.08 $6.48 $-6.48 $-23.76
