Commercial Producers Can Use Crossbreeding to Improve Profit and Sustainability

by Kansas State University Cow-Calf Extension Specialist Bob Weaber, Ph.D.   The dramatic changes and volatility cow-calf production system input costs and calf values have many producers wondering about the value of heterosis in today’s beef industry pricing structure. Many producers are seeking ways to improve cow-calf production efficiency and profitability. Profitability may be enhanced…

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IBBA Introducing Commercial Cattle Genomic Service Yielding Three Selection Indexes

The International Brangus Breeders Association (IBBA) will introduce a new DNA test for the profiling and selection of commercial replacement heifers. IBBA is rolling out the Igenity® Brangus profiler in partnership with Neogen GeneSeek Operations as part of a plan to diversify and grow its genomic services and enhance the tools available to producers. Commercial…

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Selection Considerations to Improve Longevity

by Associate Professor & Extension Beef Cattle Specialist Longevity Jason Banta, PhD., PAS Every cow-calf producer wants a cow that is productive for 12 to 15 years or more. Longevity of both cows and bulls is influenced by a host of factors including disposition, feet and legs, udder and teat confirmation, fleshing ability, fertility, function…

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Building with Brangus is the Right Choice

by IBBA Executive Vice President Tommy Perkins, PhD., PAS As we move into the spring calving season for 2017, cattle prices continue to be on the upside of our recent roller coaster ride. The value of every pound of weaned calf continues to have significance in the commercial cattle segment. I do not know of…

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It’s All in the Family

by Taylor Shackelford Starting a cattle herd can be a daunting task. For someone just getting into the Brangus breed, there are hundreds of genetic options to navigate. Most understand expected progeny differences (EPDs) typically fall into one of three categories: reproductive, growth-driven or carcass-oriented. Yet, there are highly-sought genetics, which encompass multiple EPD traits,…

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