The following assumptions pertain to sample costs to raise organic beef cattle in Mendocino and Lake
Counties, California. Practices described are not necessarily recommendations by the University of
California, but represent husbandry and production practices and materials considered typical of a well
managed, organically raised herd. Some costs, practices, and materials may not be applicable to your
situation or used during every year. Additional ones not indicated may be needed. Husbandry practices
vary by ranchers and region and variations can be significant. These costs are on an annual, per acre
basis. The use of trade names in this report does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by
the University of California nor is any criticism implied by omission of other similar products.
Land. The hypothetical ranch consists of 800 acres of land. Half of the land, 400 acres, is owned