1.
Identify Herd Goals-
Herd goals serve as the
foundation for sire selection and provide guidance as to
traits with the most relevance. Defining the production and
marketing system, along with management strategies and
environment, are key factors that warrant consideration.
2.
Assess Herd Strengths and Weaknesses-
Fundamental records are necessary to identify herd
strengths and weaknesses. Basic performance parameters
such as calving percentage, weaning percentage, weaning
weights, sale weights, carcass merit, feed usage, etc. are
necessary to serve as the basis for assessing areas of
strength and those needing attention.
3.
establish Selection Priorities-
Concentrate
on those factors which stand to have the largest impact
on profitability. Remember that income is derived from
performance (sale weight, % calf crop weaned, carcass
merit, etc.). Performance is a function of both gene and
environment/management. Superior genetics can be negated
by poor management, which emphasizes the importance of
separating the impact of management (nutrition, health
program) from that of genetics when specific priorities
for the herd are established. Considering both the genetic
and management influences on various traits is important.
Focus on the handful of priority traits rather than attempting
to change many traits simultaneously. Establishing the few
traits to focus on is the key factor.
4.
Utilize Selection Tools-
Once selection priorities
have been established through close examination of herd
goals and current status, a number of useful tools are at
the disposal of beef producers to assist in making genetic
improvement. Genetic differences across breeds have been
well established, and utilization of different breeds in a
complimentary fashion through structured crossbreeding
plans provides the opportunity for Improvement in multiple
traits. Most importantly, heterosis attained through
crossbreeding has been shown to have significant favorable
impacts on traits such as reproductive efficiency and cow
longevity which are critical for herd profitability. The limited
ability to select for reproductive traits in the form of EPDs
further emphasizes the importance of capturing the value
of heterosis.
5.
establish Benchmarks-
Several tools can be
utilized to assist in the determination of EPD specifications.
EPD values for current and past sires can be used as
benchmarks. With these benchmarks, EPD specifications
can be set to reflect the desired increase or moderation
in performance for a particular trait. As an example,
establishing a benchmark for milk EPD can be determined
through the relationship between previous sires’ genetics
for milk and the performance of his daughters in the herd.
6.
Find Source-
With the above defined, we can now
begin to look at individual bulls. There are many sources
of bulls that warrant consideration- production sales, test
stations, and private treaty sales. Of critical importance is
that the bull be from a reputable source which will stand
behind their product. It may be necessary to look at several
sources in order to find the correct bull.
7.
Do Your Homework-
The first step to doing so is to
evaluate the sale catalog, performance pedigree, and data.
By examination of the bull’s performance record, determine
which bulls meet the EPD and other specifications that have
been established (and likewise eliminate those that do not
meet the specifications). Be prepared to make trade-ofts, as
the perfect record may not be attainable. Do not be surprised
or alarmed when the bulls you have highlighted appear
scattered throughout the sale order. Remember to stick
to the selection criteria and qualifications/specifications
that have been established. All this can and should be
accomplished prior to departing for any sale.
8.
Take a Look-
Once the list has been narrowed to only
bulls which meet the criteria, these bulls can be further
evaluated and selection refined. Having a list of suitable
bulls prior to arrival at the auction or farm will not only
save time, but also assist in making sure the right bull for
the situation is purchased. Upon narrowing the potential
candidates on paper, the bulls can be evaluated for
suitability of phenotypic traits and the potential candidate
list shortened even further. Not all relevant traits have EPDs
(examples include disposition, foot soundness, fleshing
ability, etc.), and therefore must be evaluated visually.
9.
Make a Sound Investment-
For many cow-calf
producers, purchasing a new bull is a relatively infrequent
occurrence. This emphasizes the importance of selecting
the right bull, particularly in single sire herds. The value
of the right bull cannot be underestimated. Investments in
good genetics will pay dividends both short and long-term
through the influence the bull has on each calf crop as well
as his daughters that are retained in the herd.
10.
Manage the New Bull Properly-
Of equal
importance is the care and management of the newly
acquired bull. Proper management and nutrition are
essential for the bull to perform satisfactorily during the
breeding season. With most new herd sires purchased as
yearling bulls- management prior to, during, and after the
first breeding season is particularly important. Plan ahead
by acquiring a new yearling bull at least 60 to 90 days prior
to the breeding season so that ample time is available to
allow for adjustment to a new enVironment, commingling
with other bulls, and getting the bull in proper breeding body
condition.
TeN STePS To buyiNg THe rigHT bull
Dr. Scott P. Greiner, Extension Animal Scientist, VA Tech
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