Thanks for that article. Yes, I've started using feed efficiency data in my selection for Angus AI sires. I would love to have a GrowSafe system for measuring my herd's feed efficiency but that's not in the cards. I will say we added some fairly inexpensive scales to our operation a couple years ago and it has changed how I think about my cow herd. Don't judge a cow by it's external appearance nor by it's frame size and mature weight.Here's an article on feed efficiency and how it affects overall profitability of those that retain ownership of cattle.
You Can Have Your Feed Efficiency and Eat it, Too
www.nationalbeefwire.com
How many people use feed efficiency EPDs as a selection tool when deciding which bulls to use?
Having your own scale is a real eye-opener. We put one under our squeeze chute and wow, did we learn a lot.
Please explain what you mean by this statement, I have my own idea but I don't want to put my thoughts in place of yours?
I have an inexpensive scale and some things that it taught me;
You said it in your next reply -- judging weight by visual appearance can be flawed. And honestly, very flawed. I'm better at judging cows. But weaned calves and yearlings can really hide their weight.
If you study enough Angus EPD's you can start drawing a line between $ENG and Docility. The western genetics seen to be more feed efficient and less docile.
Don't forget feed quality has a large effect on feed efficiency.Here's an article on feed efficiency and how it affects overall profitability of those that retain ownership of cattle.
You Can Have Your Feed Efficiency and Eat it, Too
www.nationalbeefwire.com
How many people use feed efficiency EPDs as a selection tool when deciding which bulls to use?
I am currently selecting for easy fleshing on forage, so I think I am selecting against feedlot feed efficiency.
This is an interesting idea to me, is there any correlation between feedlot efficiency and forage efficiency? I would think that an efficient animal is efficient regardless of the feed, forage or grain. Are there any studies about this? Why do we have to choose,why can't we have both.
If you sell feeder cattle and the same feedlot buys your calves two or more years. . . Your getting paid for feedlot efficiency.
Jr he will do what he can with what he has to work with. You can't feed junk and expect exceptional results.
Feed efficiency comes with traits. You will see less volume in the cattle to make them efficient on feed. That hurts on forages. Dr. Robert Long did work years ago at CSU and you can likely find some of his work via internet or in old AJs.
