Beef Reproduction and Genetics

All Beef Reproduction and Genetics Content

Variety of different-colored beef calves in a pen.

Crossbreeding Systems – Maximizing Heterosis & Profit

By using planned breed combinations, producers can improve traits like growth, reproduction, and overall herd performance, helping make better financial and management decisions.

herd of beef cattle grazing in a pasture

Beef

Home to more than 1 million head of cattle, South Dakota’s producers can rely on SDSU Extension for research-based information, best management practices and resources to support healthy and profitable herds.

Kiernan Brandt, SDSU Extension Cow/ Calf Specialist, instructs 4-H member, Molly Harty, on finding the reproductive tract during palpitation.

Artificial Insemination School

SDSU Extension offers Beef Artificial Insemination (AI) Schools that teach participants overall herd management for reproductive success and profitability during the 2.5-day schools.

Artificial Insemination school attendee working with a liquid nitrogen filled semen tank.
Nov 14

Cattle Artificial Insemination (AI) School - November

SDSU Extension will host a Cattle Artificial Insemination (AI) School from November 14-16, 2025, at the SDSU Cow-Calf Education and Research Facility (2901 Western Ave, Brookings, SD 57006).

Man getting a straw of semen out of a tank for artificial insemination
Jan 17

Cattle Artificial Insemination (AI) School - January

SDSU Extension will host a Cattle Artificial Insemination (AI) School from January 17-19, 2026, at the SDSU Cow-Calf Education and Research Facility (2901 Western Ave, Brookings, SD 57006).

Man artificially inseminating a cow
Feb 14

Cattle Artificial Insemination (AI) School - February

SDSU Extension will host a Cattle Artificial Insemination (AI) School from February 14-16, 2026, at the SDSU Cow-Calf Education and Research Facility (2901 Western Ave, Brookings, SD 57006).

Red angus cattle gathered in a feedlot in winter.

Livestock

South Dakota is home to a dynamic livestock industry.

Three brown yearlings eating from a feeding trough.

Animal Science Research and Extension Report

Research report from Animal Science Department covering a variety of areas in livestock production.

Black angus cattle in early spring pasture.

Breeding and Marketing Strategies

The debate as to when or if the U.S. beef cattle herd will begin rebuilding this year is yet to be determined. While cattlemen operate record low cattle inventory numbers, the decision to retain females will be unique to each operation.

a pair of black angus heifers

Heifer Selection Strategies

Producers should consider some common characteristics and questions to help select replacement heifers strategically.