Department of Animal Science
Date of this Version
December 1999
Abstract
When considering purchasing a sire price often becomes the first consideration. My father once said the most expensive bull he ever purchased was the one he bought the cheapest. If replacement heifers are retained in the herd, 80-90% of the genetic change in a herd will be made by the bull's genetic makeup. Thus, as leading ranchers know, making decisions in selecting bulls is very important. Management of the bull after he arrives at the farm or ranch is also very important. The best genetic package is of little value unless the bull is managed to serve a large number of cows in the time frame you want him to be productive.
Comments
Published for Proceedings, The Range Beef Cow Symposium XVI December 14, 15 and 16, 1999 - Greeley, Colorado.