Beef Genetic Survey

Mar 07, 2014

By Warren Rusche

Numerous technologies are available to make effective genetic changes in beef cattle. Selection programs need to be balanced based on sound economics. However, setting production goals are critical to identifying the appropriate direction associated with beef cattle breeding and genetics.

Specialized marketing programs are requiring producers to develop strategies to meet the market demands, which utilize the base cowherd to successfully produce a desirable end product. The South Dakota cowherd varies across the state. However, the goal is typically the same “producing a calf with optimal market value”.

There has been an explosion of technologies which have become available in recent years to assist producers in making more informed genetic selection decisions. EPDs, selection indexes, and genomic markers are just some of the latest tools in the toolbox, with more on the horizon. But given the tremendous amount of information now available, applying these tools to make the best selection decisions can be a daunting task.

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Video: Selling Rams & Helping New Farmers Begin

It’s shipping day again at Ewetopia Farms as we sell another Suffolk yearling ram! In today’s episode, we load one of our Suffolk rams onto the trailer as he heads off to his new farm to sire the next generation of lambs.

This particular customer has been buying our rams for over eight years, trusting Ewetopia genetics for their gentle temperaments, strong builds, and proven performance. Back home, we get busy looking after the flock that’s staying behind. With the weather turning wet and chilly, it’s time to put down fresh, clean bedding to keep everyone cozy and comfortable for the season ahead. Later, we welcome a wonderful new family who’s just starting out in sheep farming!

They’ve chosen some of our Suffolk ewe lambs to begin their flock — and we couldn’t be happier to help them take their first steps into raising sheep. Stay tuned for a follow-up episode when we help deliver and settle their new flock at their farm.