A.I. can help jump-start the main objective of a cow-calf operation — to produce quality calves every year.
Photo courtesy Kevin Collins
Many beef producers looking for desirable traits turn to artificial insemination.
Jordan Thomas, a University of Missouri beef cattle specialist, heralds the practice. He said producers should take a long look at A.I., especially when coupled with an estrous synchronization program. That can help jump-start the main objective of a cow-calf operation — to produce quality calves every year.
DADEVILLE, Mo. — On a beautiful late April day in Dade County, Josh Worthington stood by a corral and talked about what success looked like for him as a seedstock producer.
He says the focus is on quality and always pursuing traits that add value — such as calving ease — growing rapidly to a desired end point, and producing a high-value carcass. He keeps a tight focus on those goals.
Worthington says the use of expected progeny differences (EPDs) has grown more and more valuable as the industry has more data points and genetic information available.
BLANDINSVILLE, Ill. — When picturing a modern Illinois cattleman, envision a family farmer, perhaps a dad raising champion show cattle and cheering on his children. Or picture him in the field checking on cattle, or at a board meeting advocating for other beef producers.