Division of Extension
Selecting and breeding cattle with desirable traits for better fertility, growth rate, feed efficiency, and carcass quality.
The decision of selecting what bull to mate to each cow or heifer has long lasting genetics effects in the herd. Sire summaries provide information on traits that are economically important to cattle producers. Expected Progeny Differences (EPDs) predict the genetic potential of future offspring of a particular bull, cow or heifer.
As spring calving wraps up, it’s time to turn our attention toward breeding season.UW-Madison Extension offers tips for cow-calf producers to implement breeding soundness exams on their bulls.
This article was originally published in Wisconsin Agriculturist Magazine Bulls have the greatest impact on a herd’s genetic progress. Deciding to keep a bull for another breeding season warrants protection of this investment to ensure he is in optimal condition when returned to the cowherd. In order to protect your bull investment, implement a plan […]
Culling decisions are a routine part of beef cow-calf herd management. Producers should make culling decisions based on what is best for their farm’s profitability, and what is best for animal well-being. This article covers some of the decisions every beef herd needs to make.
