Choosing Genetics

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This week we have been transporting all of our baled hay off of the dry-land fields following the completion of all the dry-land haying. Additionally, we have been moving herds from pasture to pasture, following better forage and better access to water.

One major point I have learned in this past week is how the selection and development of genetics in your cow herd can change the whole profitability of your operation. EPDs or expected progeny differences, are a great way to select the bulls and cows you purchase for your herd to control and improve their genetics. Using these you can influence every aspect from weaning weight and birthing ease to marbling.

One concept that I would challenge is trying to save money when purchasing bulls or cows for your herd by taking an animal with poorer genetics that will end up costing you money when it is time to take them to market. I feel that you will always pay the price of an expensive bull whether it is in initial cost or lower yield once your market cattle are sold.

Reflecting on the week, I am still curious on when someone is looking to acquire or lease land for their cattle, if good forage or good water access is more important. Some operations acquire leases due to the forage available and fertility of the land but then struggle with how much time and money must be put into keeping water available to their cattle. If cattle run out of available feed they can make do much longer than if they run out of water.

I plan to use what I’ve learned this week to help with various parts of managing an operation. From techniques and strategies to help with haying and storing bales, to moving cattle in a low stress fashion, to choosing genetics to put in to your herd. All of the experience and insight I gained this week will assist me in the future.

Submitted by: Colby Barker
Edits by: GrowinG Internship Team