Department of Animal Science
Date of this Version
December 2005
Abstract
Blair Brothers Angus is a multi-generational ranching operation in Western S.D. near Sturgis, which is much better known worldwide for Hogs than Angus cattle. However, by hogs I mean Harley Davidson motorcycles and the local biker bar does advertise Certified Angus Beef. Our normal annual rainfall is 14-15 inches, but normal the past few years would be welcome. We calve the heifers in late February, and cows begin the first of March. We run the cows in groups of 300-400 head, on a timed rotation grazing system, which works well with June rains. We supplement cows in the wintertime with hay, and feed replacement heifers a limit fed ration. Bull calves are fed to gain three pounds per day. Steers in the feedlot will consistently gain 3.5 lbs/day, so we believe we are not burning up the bulls by overfeeding. By making cattle compete throughout their life we believe we allow the cream to rise to the top.
Comments
Published for the Proceedings, The Range Beef Cow Symposium XIX December 6, 7 and 8, 2005, Rapid City, South Dakota.