Animal Science, Department of
Nebraska Beef Cattle Reports
Date of this Version
2025
Citation
2025 Nebraska Beef Cattle Report, pages 22-27
University of Nebraska Extension, 2025
Abstract
Summary with Implications
This study compared the performance and economic outcomes of differing backgrounding and feedlot systems in May-born yearling steers. We hypothesized reduced supplementation with adequate forage availability while backgrounding weaned steers will yield a similar carcass with greater profitability. It was hypothesized yearling steers backgrounded on pasture before finishing in feedlot would have a more valuable carcass that is more profitable than steers that enter the feedlot immediately. Weaned steer calves were backgrounded with ad libitum hay and 4 lb/d supplement in drylot or on pasture with 1 lb/d supplement. As yearlings, half of each backgrounding group immediately entered the feedlot or were allowed to develop on pasture before entering the feedlot. In summary, producers with pasture available for weaned and yearling steers can risk a slow rate of gain for greater body weight at slaughter and a greater return on investment.
Included in
Large or Food Animal and Equine Medicine Commons, Meat Science Commons, Veterinary Preventive Medicine, Epidemiology, and Public Health Commons
Comments
Copyright 2025, Board of Regents, University of Nebraska. Used by permission