The Louisiana Forage-Based Bull Performance Test Program

J.E. DevillierArea Livestock Agent

East/West Feliciana Parishes

Objective

To evaluate the growth rate and other traits of bulls under cool-season forage conditions common to commercial beef production in the Gulf Coast region of the U.S.

Introduction

HistoryGuidelines

–Bulls–Health–Management

Results Summary

Bull Qualifications

Breed Registry

Ranch ID

Bull (s) above herd average

September 1 to March 31

Weaned 45 days prior to delivery

Structurally sound

Vaccinated

Health Requirements

Vaccinated---Lepto, Vibrio, Clostridials, BRD and Pasturella

Dewormed 3 weeks before delivery---lung worms

Free from pinkeye, warts, ringworm, mange, lice

Dehorned

Annual Ryegrass

“The Management”

Breeding Soundness Exam

Carcass Ultrasound

Number of Bulls 2004-06

Breed 2004 2005 2006 Total

Angus 10 23 20 53

Brangus 12 17 15 44

Charolais 20 10 2 32

Gelbray 7 10 14 31

Other 6 9 12 27

Total 55* 69 63* 187

Growth Trait Averages, 2004-06

Trait 2004 2005 2006

Initial weight (lb) 624 622 742*

Final weight (lb) 1088 1136 1098

Gain (lb) 464 514 353

ADG (lb) 3.10 3.21 2.71

Hip height (in) 51 53 51

Scrotal cir. (cm) 35.6 35.8 34.6

Disposition Sc 3.0 2.8 3.0

Carcass Trait Averages, 2004-06

Trait 2004 2005 2006

REA (in2) * 10.21 10.67

REA/cwt * 0.90 0.98

Fat thickness (in) * 0.13 0.10

% IMF * 2.03 1.54

Summary

Evaluate under commercial situation

Opportunity for producers with small herds

Cooperation between state agencies

Provides producers with data

Field day gives producers an advertising venue

The Louisiana Forage-Based Bull Performance Test Program

J.E. DevillierArea Livestock Agent

East/West Feliciana Parishes