Comparison of Partially Confined and Traditional Cow-Calf Systems

Authors

Zac E. Carlson, University of Nebraska, Lincoln
Levi J. McPhillips, University of Nebraska, Lincoln
Galen E. Erickson, University of Nebraska - LincolnFollow
M. E. Drewnoski, University of Nebraska, LincolnFollow
J. C. MacDonald, University of Nebraska, LincolnFollow

Date of this Version

2022

Citation

2022 Nebraska Beef Cattle Report

UNL Beef, Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of Nebraska-Lincoln

Abstract

Production of cow-calf pairs and grow/finish performance of calves from a partially-confined, fall-calving, intensive cow-calf system were compared to a traditional, spring-calving, extensive cow-calf system. Body condition was lower at breeding and weaning for the fall-calving alternative system compared to the traditional, spring-calving system. Conception, calving, and weaning rates were not different among treatments. Weaning weights were lower for the fall-calving alternative system than traditional, spring-calving system. Following weaning, calves were grown for 117 d and then subsequently finished to the same target fatness for both systems. In the grower phase, gain was greater and feed conversion improved for the fall-calving alternative system. In the finishing phase, gain was lower for fall calving alternative system compared to traditional, spring-born calves. Intakes and carcass weight were not different among treatments during finishing, but calves from the fall-calving alternative system were fed 27 days more. The use of a fall-calving alternative cow-calf system had no impact on reproduction and weaning rates demonstrating potential value if pasture acres are limiting in areas with abundant crop acres, but calves will need to be grown longer to overcome lighter weaning weights.