money image by cherie from Fotolia.com. Economic models help managers and economists analyze the economic decision-making process. Each model relies on a number of assumptions, or basic factors that are present in all decision situations.he fundamental basis of economic decision making is individuals' or organizations' desire to maximize benefits while minimizing costs. This balancing act is referred to as maximizing value, and it is a skill that takes practice to master.
Most cattle producers are familiar with the term feed conversion.. Advertisement. Most cattle producers are familiar with the term feed conversion.. It is simply the amount of feed an animal consumes as compared to the amount of body weight gained, expressed as a ratio. Feed conversion ratios in the neighborhood of 6:1 (6 lbs of feed per pound of gain) are common in modern beef cattle feedlots. Stocker cattle producers are also interested in feed conversion, but the calculation is a little different.
Starting calves on creep feed. Occasionally, getting calves started on creep feed can be a challenge, especially when cows are milking well and pastures are in good condition. Typically, feeding cows small amounts of ground feed a few days prior to starting creep feeding will help calves learn to consume creep.esearch has shown that creep feed conversion can range from 4:1 to 18:1 pounds of feed to a pound of calf gain. However, feed conversions are typically around 4:1 for a limited protein-based feed and 8:1 for an energy-based feed. Table 1 shows the cost of gain at various feed costs and feed conversion rates.