Adding Value to Missouri's Cow Herd
Show-Me Select Replacement Heifer Program improves genetics, value statewide.
by Raney Lovorn, Angus Journal® intern
BILOXI, Miss. (June 10, 2015) — Increased data collection, adoption of new technology and a fortified relationship between commercial producers and experts has significant economic impact in Missouri. David Patterson and Jared Decker shared their strategies and success with data collection through Missouri’s Show-Me-Select Replacement Heifer Program during the 2015 Beef Improvement Federation (BIF) Annual Convention.
“How they perform when they calve is going to directly impact what occurs relative to that subsequent breeding season,” David Patterson said. Getting first-calf cows rebred to have their second calf has been a problem area.
Since 1997 the Show-Me-Select program has contributed more than $90 million to Missouri’s economy through an emphasis on selection for reproductive traits in heifers to improve genetics and a value-added marketing plan. Show-Me-Select has a heavy emphasis on data collection and utilizing new reproductive technologies to increase efficiency and upgrade whole-herd genetics.
“How they perform when they calve is going to directly impact what occurs relative to that subsequent breeding season,” Patterson said. Getting first-calf cows rebred to have their second calf has been a problem area.
Patterson began the program with a plan to help producers take advantage of new reproductive technologies to jump-start heifers and build a program that could have long-term effects on Missouri. He accomplished this by helping producers gain opportunities for improved genetics through the use of timed-artificial insemination (TAI) protocols.
Helping producers connect the significance of accuracy with their sire-selection decisions was an obstacle to Patterson’s production plan. Showing producers the impact of accuracy helps stabilize genetic advances.
The value of accuracy is that it reduces risk for the commercial producer, Patterson said. “It gives them a lot more predictable information relative to the traits that they are focusing on.”
Accuracy in expected progeny differences (EPDs) and accuracy in reproduction through breeding practices and pregnancy verification add value to the heifers involved in the program and increase demand for animals developed in the Show-Me-Select program.
“Essentially, we try to create a platform for long-term reproductive health,” Patterson said. “I think this is critical relative to heifers that are enrolled in the program, so we do have a standardized health protocol that the heifers are expected to comply with.”
A prebreeding exam — including weight, reproductive tract score and pelvic exam — is required for all heifers sold through the Show-Me-Select program. An emphasis on calving ease and nutrition is also a part of the heifer protocol.
“From my perspective, having both an extension and a research appointment, I think these projects have really had a big impact,” Patterson said, “because we see herds across the state, and the use of improved genetics, largely through AI, has literally exploded in Missouri.”
The 2015 BIF Annual Convention was hosted by Mississippi State University and the Mississippi Extension Service June 9-12 at the Beau Rivage Casino and Hotel in Biloxi. The Angus Journal and LiveAuctions.tv provide comprehensive online coverage of the event at www.BIFconference.com. Visit the Newsroom for summaries, proceedings, PowerPoints and audio of the sessions; the Awards page for announcements of award winners; and the Photos page for photo galleries of the tour stops.
Editor’s Note: This summary was written under contract or by staff of the Angus Journal®. Through an agreement with the Beef Improvement Federation, we are encouraging reprinting of the articles to those who will adhere to the reprint guidelines available on this site. Please review those guidelines or contact Shauna Rose Hermel, editor, at 816-383-5270. PowerPoints are posted with permission of the presenter and may not be reproduced in whole or in part without the express permission of the presenter.
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