Beef Reproduction and Genetics

All Beef Reproduction and Genetics Content

Producer entering data into a calving app on his smart phone.

Calving Apps: Beyond the Barn

There are many calving apps available for smart phone users, and finding the right one can be challenging. Learn some expert tips on selecting the right one to accomplish your operation's goals.

Three calving books on display: Rite in the Rain book, SDSU Extension IRM Redbook, and the K-State cow/calf record book.

Calving Books: Don’t Judge a Book by Its Cover

Calving books are an essential record-keeping component for cow-calf operations. Learn some expert tips for finding a book that best suits your operation and employees.

Attendees viewing a presentation at the I-29 Moo University Dairy Beef Short Course.

I-29 Moo University Dairy Beef Short Course on March 21 in Sioux Falls

February 15, 2024

The 2024 I-29 Moo University Dairy Beef Short Course is March 21, 2024, in the auditorium of the Denny Sanford Premier Center in Sioux Falls.

Mother cow feeding in a snow-covered field.

Feeding for the Future: Maternal Protein Intake

Maternal nutrition is extremely important, not only to the cow, but also to its unborn calf, which relies solely on its mother for nutrition. Learn some expert tips for getting your cows and their calves off to a great start.

Black angus calf standing near a cattle shelter.

Colostrum Puts the Best Hoof Forward

Newborn calves have little to no immune system upon birth. One of the keys to starting them out right is ensuring that they receive enough colostrum, which is packed full of nutrients and antibodies.

Group of bulls in a pen with winter bedding.

Winter Management of Herd Bulls

Proactive winter bull management can positively impact reproductive performance in the upcoming breeding season. Learn some expert tips for getting herd bulls prepared for the colder months ahead.

Three mixed replacement heifers standing in a pasture.

Reducing Development Costs for Replacement Heifers

Regardless of how efficiently reproductive success is managed on the ranch, beef producers are tasked annually with incorporating new females into the herd in the form of replacement heifers.

Two black cattle being isolated in a pen.

Cull Cows and Trichomoniasis

With increasing amounts of cows being sold at the sale barn with reproductive years left, there are some precautions to be aware of prior to bringing females home to re-breed.

Mother cow licking newborn calf in a pasture.

Calving Distribution Affects Herd Health

When the calving season is consolidated, nutritional requirements are more synchronous across the herd, and these benefits extend beyond improved feed management.

Can Early Weaning Benefit First-Calf Heifers?

First-calf heifers pose specific challenges for cattle producers. Learn how strategic weaning decisions can impact the performance and profitability of this challenging group.