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Beef Reproduction and Genetics

All Beef Reproduction and Genetics Content

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.

Black angus cowherd in spring pasture.

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.

Diagram of an artificial insemination semen tank. For assistance reading this graphic and data set, please call SDSU Extension at 605-688-4792.

Proper Semen Handling Techniques

Proper semen handling is crucial for the overall reproductive success of an operation utilizing artificial insemination. Learn some expert tips for equipment selection, product storage and semen handling.

Group of hereford heifers waiting to be fed.

Protein Nutrition and Replacement Heifer Development

With summer coming to an end and weaning for this year’s calves right around the corner, it is not premature for producers to start thinking about next year’s replacement heifers that will be needed to replace any culled or open cows.

Three young, Black Angus bulls in a pen.

Buying Bulls With a Plan

Selecting new herd sires is an annual process for beef producers. Learn tips for selecting the correct herd sire for your operation that will progress your operation and improve your cattle.

Several cows and cow-calf pairs at pasture.

Equation of Reproductive Efficiency

The key factors to reproductive success in beef cattle are proper management, nutrition, health, and selection, while reproductive technologies can enhance management if the previous factors are in sync.

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

Dangers and Safety Precautions With Liquid Nitrogen

If you artificially inseminate, you have been exposed to liquid nitrogen. Even though it is commonly used in livestock production, it is critical to follow safety procedures, because it is very dangerous.

A black angus bull standing in a hilly pasture.

How Many Bulls Do You Need When Synchronizing With Natural Service?

The use of estrous synchronization with natural service provides an opportunity to utilize the benefits of synchronization. However, the first question producers ask is, “How many more bulls do I need?”

Young, female scientist analyzing genetic code in a laboratory.

How Do Genetics Impact Animal Well-Being?

Genetic engineering is a promising tool that could be used to improve animal welfare while lowering costs of production.

Newborn black angus calf with mother cow.

Beef: Best Management Practices for Cow-Calf Production

This comprehensive book provides producers with insight and education into the latest beef management, handling practices and technology.