It’s The Ranch It Up Radio Show! Join Jeff Tigger Erhardt, Rebecca Wanner AKA BEC and their crew as they answer your questions about implanting your calves, part 2. Plus join the discussion of free standing panels versus permanent fencing in new corral designs. We have the markets, horses for sale and lots more on this all new episode of The Ranch It Up Radio Show. Be sure to subscribe on your favorite podcasting app or on the Ranch It Up Radio Show YouTube Channel.

Season 5, EPISODE 238

For Cow Calf Producers, Implants Have A Clear Advantage

There’s a perception that non-implanted calves garner a higher premium on sale day than their implanted counterparts. However, data consistently shows no difference in sale price between implanted and non-implanted calves.

Why Use Ralgro From Merck Animal Health

RALGRO® (zeranol implants) increases weaning weight by 23 pounds on average compared to non-implanted calves, according to Merck Animal Health. With results like that, it’s easy to see how cattle implants at the cow-calf level can result in a favorable payday.

Free Standing Panels Vs. Permanent Fencing

Free-Standing Panels

Advantages:

Portability:

Can be moved or reconfigured easily for different livestock, seasons, or operational needs.
Ideal for temporary or seasonal use.

Quick Setup & Removal:

Require no digging or permanent installation—set up in hours instead of days.

Versatile Use:

Can be used for corrals, sorting pens, alleyways, or even makeshift chutes or holding pens.

Minimal Ground Disturbance:

No need to dig post holes or pour concrete, preserving soil and reducing site impact.

Ideal for Leasing or Shared Land:

Can be used on rented property or rotated across pastures.

Disadvantages:

Less Durable in Harsh Conditions:

More likely to shift, tip, or become unstable in high winds or with aggressive animals.

Theft or Misplacement:

More prone to being stolen or moved if not secured.

Higher Long-Term Cost per Use:

Although cheaper upfront than heavy-duty permanent structures, replacing or repairing worn panels can add up.

Limited Size & Strength:

Often not suitable for large or very strong animals unless reinforced or anchored.

Permanent Fencing

Advantages:

Strength & Durability:

More secure for large or aggressive livestock.
Withstands weather and repeated use better over time.

Low Maintenance (Long-Term):

When built correctly with quality materials, requires less frequent repair.

Increased Property Value:

Adds permanent infrastructure, improving land resale or lease value.

Security:

Less likely to be tampered with, moved, or stolen.

Disadvantages:

Expensive Upfront:

Higher costs for materials, labor, and installation.

Inflexible:

Cannot be moved or resized without significant effort and cost.

Time-Consuming to Install:

May take days or weeks to complete, especially for larger corrals or complex layouts.

Requires Permanent Land Use Decision:

Not ideal for rotational grazing systems or temporary setups.

Which One to Choose?

Use Free-Standing Panels if:
You need flexibility, have limited budget upfront, are leasing land, or run a mobile or multi-site operation.
Choose Permanent Fencing if:
You want long-term security, own the land, manage large herds, or need infrastructure that stands the test of time.

Featured Experts in the Cattle Industry

Brandon Nuttelman, PhD– Merck Animal Health

https://www.merck-animal-health-usa.com/species/cattle/products/cattle-implants

Follow on Facebook: @MerckAnimalHealth

Mark Vanzee – Livestock, Equine, & Auction Time Expert
https://www.auctiontime.com/
https://www.livestockmarket.com/
https://www.equinemarket.com/
Follow on Facebook: @LivestockMkt | @EquineMkt | @AuctionTime

Kirk Donsbach – Financial Analyst at StoneX
https://www.stonex.com/
Follow on Facebook: @StoneXGroupInc

Shaye Wanner – Host of Casual Cattle Conversation
https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/
Follow on Facebook: @cattleconvos

Contact Us with Questions or Concerns

Have questions or feedback? Feel free to reach out via:

Call/Text: 707-RANCH20 or 707-726-2420
Email: RanchItUpShow@gmail.com
Follow us: Facebook/Instagram: @RanchItUpShow
YouTube: Subscribe to Ranch It Up Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/RanchItUp

Catch all episodes of the Ranch It Up Podcast available on all major podcasting platforms.

Discover the Heart of Rural America with Tigger & BEC

Ranching, farming, and the Western lifestyle are at the heart of everything we do. Tigger & BEC bring you exclusive insights from the world of working ranches, cattle farming, and sustainable beef production.

Learn more about Jeff ‘Tigger’ Erhardt & Rebecca Wanner (BEC) and their mission to promote the Western way of life at Tigger and BEC.

https://tiggerandbec.com/