Beef Reproduction and Genetics

2021 Beef Heifer Synchronization Protocols

With the 2021 Artificial Insemination Beef Sire Directories now available, it is time to think about breeding season, especially if you will be using synchronization.

Early Weaning: Impact on Replacement Heifers

Early weaning calves is a common practice for managing through a drought. However, how does early weaning affect the heifers meant for replacements?

Don’t Let Dry Conditions Take a Toll on Breeding Success

If you feel pastures are not going to provide adequate nutrients to prepare cows for breeding, here are some management strategies that can be done to potentially stimulate estrus, maintain good pregnancy rates, and save some feed resources too.

Late-Term Reproductive Losses in Beef Cattle: Diagnosing the Cause

Reproductive losses account for $1 billion in lost revenue to the beef industry each year. With cattle reproduction, focusing on what we can control and diagnose is the key to avoiding these losses.

Planning for a Muddy Breeding Season

Early calving spring cow herds have wrapped up calving and are preparing for breeding season. If you are having flashbacks to breeding in the mud of 2018, try approaching this year with an open mind and review breeding season protocols with a “mud” backup plan.

How Often Should You Check Cows During Calving Season?

The routine “calving check” is one of the most important tasks on the list of beef cattle producers during calving season.

Minimizing the Neospora Threat by Using Serology in Beef Replacement Heifer Selection

Neospora caninum is one of the lesser-known causes of infectious reproductive failure in beef herds. It’s always possible for herds to encounter new Neospora infections in a given year, but in herds in which it’s already established, using Neospora serology can be one consideration in choosing replacement heifers.

Lessons From Alternative Calving Workshops

Recently, the South Dakota Grassland Coalition and SDSU Extension held workshops across the State focused on sharing information from experienced livestock producers who have switched to a calving date more in sync with nature.

Cow Herd Options

April 2018 and 2019 blizzards caused stress to the region’s cowherds, and for some herds changed the calving distribution. 2020 brings a chance to re-establish a preferred calving distribution.

Rancher’s Perspective on Challenging Heifers

This article will share a rancher’s perspective on challenging heifers during the breeding season in Northwestern South Dakota.