Beef

A Survey of Iowa Beef x Dairy Calf Raisers and Feedlot Operators to Further Describe Challenges Related to Finishing Beef x Dairy Crossbreds

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Abstract

The beef on dairy industry has made progress in changing the type and quality of the Beef x Dairy (BXD) crossbred animal, but there is still room for improvement. Information about the conformation and performance of BXD cattle must be shared with the dairy producer concerning the selection of beef sires based on carcass merit and performance. Additional research is needed to help dairy producers select beef bulls based on growth, performance, and carcass merit without compromising calving ease.    Dairies and calf ranches realize the importance of colostrum management for bull calves and are willing to invest in colostrum monitoring and testing for passive immunity. Calf raisers are interested in knowing more about milk replacer quality, starter rations, and nutrition for optimum calf growth. Health protocols are becoming even more important for the young calf as well as the recently weaned calf. Communication between the dairy operation and the feedlot is an important key to success.

Feedlot operators realize the advantages of BXD calves including a consistent supply, lower-cost feeder calves, and improved performance compared with straightbred dairy calves. They also recognize the high-quality grades of BXD carcasses and the opportunity for more of these crossbreds to capture high-quality premiums.  These finishing operations continue to seek new research on nutritional programs to optimize growth while preserving rumen health and reducing liver abscesses. They also are looking for an ideal implant strategy for the BXD animal as it is unique from fed beef and dairy animals. Health continues to be a major issue with the BXD calf.

Keywords: Beef on Dairy, Producer survey

How to Cite:

Schwab, D. L., Dahlke, G. R., Doran, B. E. & Thomson, D. U., (2024) “A Survey of Iowa Beef x Dairy Calf Raisers and Feedlot Operators to Further Describe Challenges Related to Finishing Beef x Dairy Crossbreds”, Iowa State University Animal Industry Report 21(1). doi: https://doi.org/10.31274/air.18011