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Management and financial considerations affecting the decision to synchronize estrus in beef females¹

Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M University, College Station 77843

^2. Correspondence: P.O. Box 2150, Bryan, TX 77806-2150 (phone: 979-845-6810; fax: 979-845-6501; E-mail: lsprott{at}tamu.edu).

Abstract

A beef producer's decision to use estrus synchronization (ES) in an AI breeding program is usually influenced by the potential to positively affect productivity and profitability. Pregnancy rates at synchrony clearly affect profitability and are a major factor in the decision to use ES, but many producers are unaware of the necessary conditions that ensure success. Seedstock producers who use AI to generate offspring with recognized pedigrees are more likely to use ES than commercial producers whose income depends on other production factors such as improved weaning weight, increased carcass quality, desirable maternal value in replacement heifers, and a reduced incidence of dystocia. These changes in productivity are easily accomplished through ES/AI, but there is a lack of research that clearly documents the impact of these technologies on profitability in commercial and seedstock beef herds. Research to fill this information void would help producers make more informed management and financial decisions associated with ES/AI and perhaps increase the incentive to adopt such technologies. There is also a need to increase the number of marketing methods that commercial producers can use to capture potential price premiums for value-added calves generated from ES/AI. Future use of ES by beef producers may depend on the opportunity to receive greater reward for improved value in their calves. A more intensified effort to discover new ways for producers to receive higher financial reward for the improved productivity associated with ES/AI is needed. This should be an interdisciplinary effort involving academicians and other parties with interest in the beef industry.

^1. Mention of products and trade names does not imply endorsement or warranty by the Department of Animal Science or the author.