Instructions
Check the auction prices for your region or state. You can search for cattle auctions in your county or state online or contact your state department of agriculture for auction houses and resources. Auction houses will also have post-auction reports available with information on activity, price, condition of cattle -- including calves -- make-up of total cattle sold, among other statistics. You can usually find these reports online as well.
Check the market prices on cattle market exchanges. As with non-agricultural companies and products, you can find commodities market exchanges online and also in the business sections of newspapers that post price charts and quotes for cattle. Looking at daily or average weekly and monthly figures can help you accurately assess your calf's value.
Check your breed registry. Roger Johnson, President of the National Farmers Union, says cattle producers should be aware that registered calves may be worth more than non-registered calves. Most breed associations keep sales reports for their breeds, plus sire evaluations so you can make informed breeding decisions to maximize your livestock's worth. Some are posted online or available upon request.
How to Calculate Calf Death Loss
A calf, or baby cow, is defined as weighing less than 500 pounds. Every cattle farmer experiences cow and calf loss. Causes can be stillbirth; natural causes such as lameness or disease; and by predator. The value of the loss is determined by the current market value of the calf.