Carcass, Ultrasound or DNA

Producers share their experiences with technologies used to predict carcass merit.

by Troy Smith, field editor

MANHATTAN, Kan. (June 15, 2016) — It has been a goal of the Beef Improvement Federation (BIF) to encourage increased participation by beef producers and sharing of their experience and opinions during annual BIF symposia. During the 2016 event, hosted June 14-17 in Manhattan, Kan., a trio of seedstock breeders talked about their respective operations and their views regarding information derived from carcass data, ultrasound data and DNA.

First up for the panel’s presentation to the Advancements in End Product Improvement breakout session was Dwight, Kan., cattleman Jan Oleen. As breeders of both Angus and Hereford seedstock, plus commercial crossbreds, Oleen said he and his brother (Arden) have concentrated on breeding for improvements beneficial to the cattle feeder and the consumer.

He cited use of ultrasound of both yearling bulls and heifers, and some crossbred progeny, to aid in selection for increased ribeye area and marbling.

“I think we have got the most out of ultrasounding our heifers over the years,” said Oleen, “making the most improvement to marbling scores.”

Oleen stated his belief that consistency of technician skill lends consistency to ultrasound data collection.

Eureka, Kan., Brangus breeder Vern Suhn agreed, explaining that he was first exposed to ultrasound technology in 1986. Through his previous involvement with Brinks Brangus and his own seedstock operation, he has contributed ultrasound data to the International Brangus Breeders Association for 39 consecutive years.

“Actual carcass data from his own fed cattle and cattle from GeneTrust (producer alliance) have correlated pretty well with expectations based on ultrasound,” offered Suhn. “Ultrasound is the fastest, most economical way to evaluate young sires and females for potential to influence our genetic base.”

Dick Beck of Three Trees Ranch, Sharpsburg, Ga., was the third panel member. Beck said more than 10,000 animals were scanned with ultrasound between 2000 and 2009. He noted the technology’s limitations, including typical use of weaning groups as contemporaries for comparison. He noted that stress and shrink can distort results, and human error or potential manipulation are factors to consider.

“It’s a good technology, but not perfect,” Beck emphasized.

Beck also stated his belief that focus on improvement of carcass merit is essential. He praised genomics for lending accuracy to genetic prediction.

Beck reminded beef producers of the dairy industry’s plight, with the genetics the industry depends upon now concentrated in very few hands. He urged beef breeders to be proactive in adopting genomics, or large commercial companies will lead and control it.

Editor’s Note: This summary was written under contract or by staff of Angus Media. 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.

Angus Media's coverage of the event is made possible through collaboration with BIF and sponsorship of LiveAuctions.tv. For questions about this site, or to notify us of broken links, click here. Look for additional coverage in the Angus Journal, the Angus Beef Bulletin, the Angus Journal Daily, the Angus Beef Bulletin EXTRA and Angus TV.

.