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UNL, SDSU launch new risk management tool for beef producers

A new heifer development program from the Universities of Nebraska and South Dakota State will help producers improve genetics in their herds.

Kiernan Brandt with Trans Ova Genetics, a partner on the project, says this can be a tool for producers to help manage their risk. “Develop them in in a way that is going to keep them around for a long time, while at the same time give those guys back just a ton of data about the strengths and weaknesses of their herd. Identify those, report them back to the producers, breed them in a complementary way in their first breeding season.”

The Great Plains Heifer Development Program will offer several services to enhance reproductive efficiency and heifer development like feeding, genetic tools for sire selection, synchronization protocols and post breeding management.

Connor Biehler, beef extension educator with Nebraska Extension, says the nation’s cowherd is at its smallest level and the center is coming at an ideal time. The program will be located at the Haskell Beef lab near Concord, Nebraska, and will begin accepting cattle in mid-December.

Kiernan Brandt and Connor Biehler: