How to Start out with AI

[clarkmorefarm]

Been around cattle most of my life, we have always had a bull and let nature do the work.

As I am starting up my small herd, I am considering AI to help get the genetics I want.

School me on AI as far as what equipment is needed and how all of this works. I would be fine paying someone to come out and AI my herd, but what all would they need from me to work successfully.

 

[Hpacres440p]

A chute or good restraint system is basically all they would need. Gentle cows help too

 

[Brute 23]

There are classes you can go to on AI. I went to AI and Palp course in College Station for like 3 days. It wasnt cheap, like $900, but it was extremely informative. It starts all the way with good nutrition, breed stats, selecting sires with epds, tools, new technology, etc. It has both classroom and barn time. You will actually do it with them.

In my case, I went and realized it was not for us, but I still feel like I learned so much about animals and the industry in general. I do feel like I got my money's worth and some. If nothing else, it saved me from spending a bunch of money. I met some very interesting people who also had some worth while experiences to learn from.

 

[wbvs58]

Yes, I would start with doing an AI course, you will get to learn the process and equipment you need and a bit of hands on experience. Get someone to do a fixed time program for you and then you can put to use what you learnt to have a go with any rebreeds in 3 weeks.

Ken