We toured one of the 3 corrals on the premises where gauchos were vaccinating calves for pinkeye and respiratory diseases. The calves arrived from north of Buenos Aires a month prior and have been on pasture since. Following today's vaccination they will be moved to feedlot pens. The calves will be fed varying rations of corn silage, hay, sunflower pellets, and corn grain until finishing at 330 kg (730 lbs). Cattle are finished at a much lower weight than in the USA because the market in Argentina values animals at a much younger age and lower weight. It was interesting to note that feedlot pens were cleaned for the first time ever this year due to the excessive rainfall. The operation was well-maintained and appeared to be well operated. The owner has spent money to install environmental protection structures such as manure lagoons even though that is not presently required by the Argentinian government. Following the tour we were treated to a meal of sauteed beef sandwiches, wine, and ice cream...the hospitality down here continues to be great!
Our next stop was going to be a large ranch near Trenque Laquen that produces beef for export which is an uncommon practice in Argentina at this time. The weather, however, had other plans for us and rain made the roads unsuitable for travel with the bus. Now we will spend the rest of the day exploring Trenque Laquen. We are all looking forward to another day of ranch visits and our trip to Rosario tomorrow.
-Shaina Sabel & Jon Kleinjan
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