Beef Genetics
As public research funding declines, one of the beef industry’s leading voices calls for producers to help secure the future of genetic improvement.
A multi-year University of Illinois study puts hard numbers behind an old idea — hybrid vigor still pays in today’s cow-calf economics.
While the search for answers in pregnancy loss usually starts with the mother, a groundbreaking study at Texas A&M’s new biotechnology center turns the spotlight onto paternal epigenetics.
A national survey reveals what U.S. beef producers are — and aren’t — doing when they pick a herd sire.
Researcher discusses tips for selecting cows that fit the western U.S. range.
As BCHF losses surpass respiratory disease in some feedlots, researchers at the 2026 BIF Symposium highlight the path toward healthier hearts and permanent genetic improvement.
For 100 years, Ed Koger’s family has bought Angus bulls from Dalebanks Angus, proving in the cattle business, the most valuable trait you can breed for is integrity.
Research from the University of Missouri shows that selecting for heat-tolerant cattle isn’t just a welfare issue — it’s a major bottom-line advantage.
At Kieler Farms, beef-on-dairy is now a core piece of the business, with about 1,300 head finished each year and a system built to carry cattle from calf to harvest.
How one Kansas cattleman uses genetic testing to help improve his bottom line and his cow herd
From replacement selection to BRD resilience, tissue sampling units provide a fast, clean and reliable path to the genomic data commercial producers need to stay profitable.
Foot quality and soundness are top of mind as producers evaluate their cattle year-round, starting with genetic selection, managing environmental and nutrition factors and culling the cattle that do not make the cut.
Genomic tools can predict at birth whether a heifer is genetically wired to stay in the herd — a game-changer as producers look to rebuild the national cow herd.
BIF recognizes Bowman, Northcutt-Bowman, Gaskins, Kachman and McGuire for their contributions to beef cattle improvement.
From integrating computers in 1984 to achieving Platinum TPR status, 2026 BIF Seedstock Producer of the Year Colyer Hereford and Angus has spent decades proving data integrity is the most valuable product a seedstock producer can offer.
Neogen has expanded its commercial genomic profile to include 18 traits, offering cow-calf producers new proactive tools to manage bovine respiratory disease risk and quantify sustainability in dollars.
2026 BIF Commercial Producer of the Year, Autauga Farming Company Inc., uses a strict closed-herd philosophy and three-breed rotation to achieve the perfect equilibrium of maternal traits and feedlot performance.
Each year, BIF awards one Seedstock Producer of the Year and one Commercial Producer of the Year during its annual symposium.
Despite record-high cash costs of $780 per head, surging calf prices pushed average profit margins up by $614 in 2025.
With record-tight supplies and record demand for quality beef, Red Angus leaders say the breed’s moderate, heat-tolerant cows and data-driven culture give it a unique lane as the U.S. cow herd rebuilds.
Early bird discount available until May 1 for Beef Improvement Federation Research Symposium and Convention to be hosted in Boise, Idaho.
Anton Hermes has found success selecting and developing bred heifers in eastern Colorado, and marketing them across the country in both live auction and private treaty sales.
Lorna Marshall has built career shaping beef genetics around the world using her skill of networking and keen eye for selection. While her sire acquisition list is legendary, her true legacy is the relationships she has built.
When producers look to their veterinarians for genomics advice, many may not feel fully confident leading that discussion. Here’s how you can prepare yourself to help producers take the first step.
University of Nebraska extension educators suggest balancing bull selection with cow herd profitability.
While mature cow weights have climbed for 60 years, Oklahoma State analysis explains the link between cow size and carcass weight is more modest than the industry assumes.
Although EPDs are only comparable within breed, producers can utilize the Across-Breed EPD Table to accurately compare bulls across breeds.