By Scout Nelson
Cattle HQ Live is a free monthly webinar series offered by SDSU Extension's beef team on the third Thursday of each month at 200 pm CST. These sessions help cattle operations increase profit potential and maintain healthy animals. Each webinar features experts who discuss current research findings, practical management tips, and key strategies tailored to diverse beef production systems.
In this month's session, SDSU Extension Cow/Calf Field Specialist Robin Salverson and Assistant Professor & SDSU Extension Beef Reproductive Physiology Specialist Jessica Drum will guide participants through essential steps for advanced reproductive techniques.
They will outline breeding strategies that align with operational goals, emphasizing methods to boost efficiency and reduce costs. One highlighted method is estrous synchronization, which unifies breeding and calving windows, reduces labor demands, and promotes uniform calf crops.
During the webinar, experts will emphasize evaluating herd nutrition, body condition, and genetic factors. They will illustrate protocols for accurate heat detection and correct synchronization product usage.
According to these specialists, "Estrous synchronization is an important technique that can be used to increase reproductive success in beef cattle operations." By following recommended guidelines, producers can enhance calf crop consistency and market value.
Participants will learn to identify and mitigate challenges like stress and environmental impacts. The presenters will address replacement heifer management, robust vaccination protocols, and optimal reproductive performance. These steps support herds capable of meeting marketplace demands.
In addition, the session will cover best practices for verifying estrus, achieving proper timing of artificial insemination, and ensuring that protocols match each herd's unique production goals. Attendees will also discover ways to integrate newly learned techniques with existing management strategies, helping them remain flexible and responsive to changing market conditions.
Registration is required, but free. Once registered, participants receive a Zoom link and reminders for upcoming sessions. This ensures ongoing learning and improvements in reproductive management. For details, contact Julie Walker or Erin DeHaan, SDSU Extension Beef Specialists.
By integrating expert guidance, attending these webinars can significantly benefit cattle operations. Engaged producers can adopt innovative practices to increase herd productivity, leading to sustainable and profitable outcomes. All are invited to participate.
Photo Credits:gettyimages-digitalvision
Categories: South Dakota, Livestock, Beef Cattle