Cattle Archives - American Cattlemen

MGK Introduces Troika® Pour-On for Fast and Effective Insect Control on Livestock

Posted on July 14, 2026July 15, 2026 by Cattle- Web-Manager-2

MGK Introduces Troika® Pour-On for Fast and Effective Insect Control on Livestock

Multiple actives in an oil-based, ready-to-use formulation with versatile application options for livestock producers.

Minneapolis, MN — Leading insecticide manufacturer MGK is excited to announce the launch of Troika Pour-On. This oil-based, ready-to-use formulation is a dual-active, synergized insecticide that provides fast and effective control of insects on livestock that can be applied as a pour-on, spray, or in backrubbers and automatic misting systems.

“Livestock producers need insect control solutions that are effective, easy to use and adaptable to a variety of management practices,” said Nick Consulo, Animal Health Sales Manager at MGK. “Troika Pour-On delivers fast control of key livestock insects while offering the flexibility to apply the product in the way that works best for their operation.”

Key features of Troika Pour-On include:

•Kills flies, lice, mosquitoes, ticks and other listed insects

•For use on cattle, horses, sheep and swine

•Oil-based for better adhesion to animal hides

•Approved for daily application, providing flexibility during increased insect pressure

•Synergized with piperonyl butoxide (PBO) to combat metabolic resistance

The Troika brand is built on a powerful combination of two active ingredients, a botanical pyrethrin and a synthetic pyrethroid, plus a synergist, piperonyl butoxide. Together, they deliver a quick kill and residual control against insects. Troika Pour-On is the newest addition to the Troika family, offering the same proven performance as an oil-based solution.

As livestock producers face emerging insect threats, Troika Pour-On has accepted FIFRA Section 2(ee) recommendations for New World Screwworm response efforts in select states, providing producers with an additional tool to help protect livestock where those recommendations have been approved.

Contact your local MGK or distributor sales representative for availability.

For more information about Troika Pour-On, visit https://www.mgk.com/product/troika-pour-on/

About MGK

Founded in 1902 and headquartered in Minnesota, MGK develops effective insect control solutions. The company is a global leader in botanical insecticide technologies and also offers a broad portfolio of conventional chemistries.

In 2026, MGK joined Valent BioSciences and Valent North America to form Sumitomo Biorational Company (SBC). Together, the companies combine expertise in research, manufacturing and commercialization. As a result, they can develop innovative solutions faster and better meet customers’ evolving needs.

Today, SBC is headquartered in Libertyville, Illinois. The company focuses on sustainable technologies derived from natural sources, including microbials and botanicals. In turn, it serves customers worldwide in agriculture, environmental health, public health and pest control with science-based solutions.

Back to Home

Protecting Against Cattle Theft

Posted on July 13, 2026September 9, 2026 by Cattle- Web-Manager-2

Industry Insight: Protecting Against Cattle Theft

As cattle values continue to reach historic highs, livestock theft has become a growing concern across many cattle-producing regions of the country. Increased market values create greater financial incentive for theft, making cattle operations more attractive targets than they have been in years. Industry reports and law enforcement agencies have noted a rise in theft activity, particularly involving cattle that are easy to access, difficult to identify, or located in remote areas.

While cattle theft is often thought of as a problem from the past, today’s incidents can be highly organized and sophisticated. In many cases, thieves target younger cattle, unbranded livestock, or herds with limited security measures in place. With the value of a single load of cattle reaching significant levels, even a small theft can have a major financial impact on an operation.

For pasture and feedlot operators, the loss extends beyond the value of the missing animals. Theft can disrupt marketing plans, cash flow, inventory management, and overall operational efficiency. That’s why preventative measures are more important than ever.

Producers can help reduce risk by implementing a few practical security practices:

Lock gates and limit access points whenever possible.

Check cattle regularly and maintain accurate head counts.

Keep current records of brands, tags, animal identification numbers, and photographs.

Install security cameras at entrances, load-outs, and other high-traffic areas.

Report suspicious vehicles or unusual activity to local authorities.

Maintain accurate purchase, sales, and inventory records.

Work closely with neighbors and employees to monitor unusual activity around the operation.

These simple steps can serve as both deterrents and valuable tools if a theft occurs. Accurate identification records and documentation can significantly improve the ability to investigate and recover stolen livestock. Industry organizations also encourage producers to review security measures regularly, especially during periods of high cattle prices.

Technology is becoming an increasingly valuable part of livestock security as well. Security cameras, remote monitoring systems, and enhanced recordkeeping tools can provide producers with additional visibility and documentation while helping deter criminal activity.

At Specialty Risk Insurance, we believe protecting your operation starts long before a claim occurs. Taking proactive steps today can help reduce the risk of loss tomorrow and provide greater peace of mind during a time when every head of cattle represents a significant investment.

If you have questions about your pasture, feedlot, or livestock insurance coverage, contact the Specialty Risk team. We’re here to help you protect the operation you’ve worked hard to build.

Back to Home

Fencing Water Gaps and Low Areas

Posted on July 9, 2026 by Cattle- Web-Manager-2

Fencing Water Gaps and Low Areas

Devlon Ford, regenerative ranching advisor at Noble Research Institute, shares his advice and methods for fencing water gaps and low areas. Planning and maintaining water-gap fencing is vital for effective livestock management and protecting your property.

What types of water gaps have you encountered on your ranch?

Water gaps can vary depending on the terrain and water flow. They can occur in various low areas, not just creeks, and they need different approaches depending on the water flow and animal species grazing the area. Water gaps can be areas of erosion, seasonal flows or low spots that collect water. Depending on your property, you may need to construct a fixed water gap or a swing gap.

What fencing methods do you use for water gaps?

When it comes to fencing methods, you can use a range of materials like barn tin, dog chains, or polywire weighted with rocks. These materials are flexible and can move with the water flow, preventing damage to the fence. For more stable and continuous electric current, high-tensile wire is excellent. It spans across low areas and prevents cattle from crossing, even when water levels are low. Polywire is another practical and inexpensive option, though it might need replacement after heavy flooding.

I have a stream that runs into and across my ranch. Do I need to worry about a water gap?

Yes. Water gaps are essential for ensuring your livestock stay within your property lines while allowing water and debris to flow through without too much damage to your permanent fence. The ideal water gap functions as a floodgate, maintaining animal containment without obstructing the natural flow of water.

What should I consider when planning a water gap?

There are several factors to consider:

Depth and width of the water: Understand the dimensions of your stream, creek or other water bodies.
Water source and flow: Consider both the lowest and highest water levels throughout the year. This depends on whether your waterway spans a few feet or several feet. Note that in some states, it is illegal to fence navigable waters, so be sure to check local regulations before installing any fencing.
Debris control: Consider how sticks, branches and other debris might accumulate in your gap, potentially causing harm.
Soil stability: Determine if your soil is sturdy or erodible, as this will affect your fence’s durability. The banks of creeks, streams and other waterways hopefully have plants growing close to the edge. Growing plants will help hold the soil in place and are less susceptible to erosion than bare soil. These covered areas are a good place to install T-posts for strength and tension, while fiberglass posts are inexpensive and better for use in bare soil along the banks and the bottom of the channel.

How do different species impact my water-gap solutions?

Different animals need different water-gap designs. For cattle, I have used brush as a barrier when in a hurry, since they tend not to push through dense vegetation. However, sheep and goats can navigate these barriers, so you will need more secure options like high-tensile wire or polywire fencing. These materials adjust to varying water levels and can contain smaller, more agile animals. Electric fencing is also useful for sheep and goats to prevent escapes through small gaps.

Which materials are most suitable for constructing a water-gap fence?

For water-gap fencing, opt for galvanized pipes or wood that has been treated for high-moisture environments. These materials are ideal due to their durability in wet conditions. Ensure that the support posts are securely driven into a stable part of the bank.

How should I determine the appropriate type of fencing for water gaps?

Choosing the right fencing for water gaps does not follow a universal rule, as each site’s characteristics vary. Consider the following essential elements for effective water-gap fencing:

Post placement on both banks: Install posts about 2-3 feet from the edge of the water to avoid areas susceptible to erosion.
Wire or cable across the top: Attach a horizontal wire at the bottom of the posts, which corresponds to the top of the bank.
Filling material for the gap: Utilize materials such as strands of electric wire to span the U-shaped gap down to the water’s surface.

The water level in my creek varies. How should I account for that in our water-gap fence?

The key is to ensure your gate matches the land’s contour. For high water, the gate should swing to float and allow debris to pass. In low water, it should prevent livestock from crossing underneath. In low areas without consistent water, fixed water gaps using strands of barbed wire or brush can help keep your gap effective in varying water levels.

Is it possible to extend an electric fence across a water gap in my cattle pasture?

Yes, you can. I recommend using a current limiter on your water gap section. This device maintains a charge to the rest of the fence even if your water gap grounds out. Electric fences act as psychological barriers for cattle, so ensuring consistent power is crucial. A current limiter helps prevent the fence from shorting out when water levels rise.

What are some common mistakes to avoid with electric fencing for water gaps?

Common mistakes include not securing hanging wires or chains properly, placing wires too low so they short out in slight rain, and incorrect spacing of wires. Ensure the wires are at the proper height and securely fastened to avoid these issues.

How often should I check and maintain my water-gap fences?

Regular maintenance is key, especially after rainfall. Knowing your area’s climate and how it affects water flow will help you anticipate when checks are needed. After significant rain events, inspect your water gaps to ensure they remain functional and intact.

Back to Home