Prepare for Breeding Season
A successful breeding season begins with proactive management, focusing on everything from nutrition to selecting the right genetic traits. The resources found here offer expert guidance on synchronization protocols, bull fertility and the latest reproductive technologies to help you maximize conception rates and herd productivity. By leveraging these practical insights, producers can fine-tune their programs to ensure a more uniform and profitable calf crop.
As the cost of high-quality bulls climbs, reproductive physiologist Jaclyn Ketchum explains how artificial insemination offers elite genetics and superior herd uniformity for a fraction of the investment.
From vacuum seal checks to oxygen safety in transport, K-State’s Sandy Johnson outlines the critical steps to maintain semen quality from the tank to the cow.
Proper development, accurate estrus detection and early breeding help maximize heifer productivity.
University of Florida’s Mario Binelli explains how hormone treatments and wearable technology like accelerometers take the guesswork out of cattle breeding to maximize ROI.
Success in artificial insemination depends on execution. Learn why the Beef Reproduction Task Force emphasizes fundamentals over advanced technology to drive genetic progress.
Whether driven by drought, fire or system integration, breeding in confinement requires precise nutrition and space management to maintain reproductive efficiency.
No matter your herd size, discover how AI can help you mate cows individually and increase your pay weight at the sale barn.
Every 21 days a cow stays open costs you roughly 40 lb. of weaning weight. Ensure your bull-to-female ratios are optimized to maximize early conception and your bottom line.
Success at breeding time isn’t a silver bullet; it’s a timeline of nutrition, diagnostics and mineral management that starts 90 days before turnout.
K-State veterinarians discuss estrus synchronization protocols in heifers versus cows and how to find what works best in your operation.
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.
From calculating weight gain to evaluating foot structure, MU’s Patrick Davis shares the essential checklist for preparing bulls for the breeding pasture.
From managing 2-year-old recipients to surviving weather shifts, Trans Ova veterinarians break down the science of a winning breeding season.
From age to environment, multiple factors determine whether bulls pass a breeding soundness exam.
A few days at the start of the breeding season can determine not just this year’s calf weights but also the long-term trajectory of the entire herd.
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.
From targeted nutrition to disciplined phenotypic sorting, learn how Schrader Ranch and Christensen Charolais are building the next generation of productive and efficient females.
Open cows and poor conception rates often trace back to a single source in the bull pasture. Without consistent testing, one carrier can disrupt an entire breeding season.
From reproductive readiness to mineral supplementation planning, K-State’s Jason Warner shares the top 10 management practices producers should be mindful of in April.
Disease challenges early in life can have permanent effects on a female’s ability to stay in the herd. Discover how to navigate the health pitfalls that threaten replacement heifer investment.
Why energy, protein, minerals and weekly body condition checks are critical to getting cows and first‑calf heifers rebred on schedule.
Eye-tracking research sheds light on decision-making at bull sales.
From skepticism to trust, Robb Forman has realized labor savings and better results through SenseHub’s heat-detecting technology using ear tags with accelerometers.
From post-calving nutrition to bull selection decisions, K-State’s Jason Warner shares the top 10 management practices producers should be mindful of in March.
From colostrum intake to feedlot performance, research shows maternal nutrition is the key to long-term ranch profitability.
Strong breeding seasons start with strong postpartum cows. Winter calving offers the chance to get both right with attentive management.
Long before calving, subtle biological signals can influence the health, growth, and future productivity of a calf. Understanding and utilizing these signals could lead to the next revolution in reproductive management for cattle.