Selecting a Bull? Ask the Right Questions
Which bull is right for you depends on goals, marketing options and your cows.
Bull selection is one of the most economically important jobs in a cattle operation. Whether selecting a bull for natural service or artificial insemination, the effect of that bull’s genetics in the herd is long-lasting. In fact, approximately 87.5% of the current calf crop genetics can be explained by the last three bulls used in the operation, further highlighting the long-lasting influence of sire selection.
From the Field
Bull-buying tips from three of your Association regional managers.
While bull sales have already begun in parts of the country, as spring approaches commercial producers will find themselves with even more opportunities to add bull power to their operations. But, with so many genetically unique, enviromentally adapted seedstock producers to choose from, what can commercial producers do to make the best decisions for their own operations? We asked American Angus Association regional managers Reese Tuckwiller, Casey Jentz and Radale Tiner.
Angus Foundation Highlights Successes at January Events
Fundraising activities support mission to benefit Angus education, youth and research.
The Angus Foundation started the year with strong support for its mission, raising more than $150,000 through the sales of donated lots at Cattlemen’s Congress and the National Western Stock Show. The lots were sold in Oklahoma City at the Bases Loaded Sale, and in Denver at the Foundation Angus Sale at the National Western Stock Show. Money raised benefits the Angus Fund, which provides unrestricted funding for Angus education, youth and research.
January 10, 2024 | Vol. 16 : No. 1—A
Stretching Winter Hay Supplies
Storage and feeding losses can equate to an extra big bale per cow this winter.
Got enough hay to make it to green grass? Maggie Justice, beef extension specialist for the University of Arkansas, offered tips for how to calculate whether you do and suggested ways to stretch winter hay supplies.
News & Notes
News from across the country.
This month’s column includes updates on USDA programs, information on upcoming meetings, January interest rates for Farm Service Agency loans, and Angus Foundation news from Cattlemen’s Congress in Oklahoma City.
10 Tips to Bulletproof Your Beef Operation
Beef producers can use a window of profitability to make their farm business more bulletproof.
Livestock producers are now 10 years into a 10-year cycle, says Joe Horner, University of Missouri Extension ag economist. Cow inventories are tight. Feeder calves available to feed will get tighter as higher prices encourage people to keep more heifers on-farm. Economists are forecasting good prices ahead.
