By Scout Nelson
South Dakota State University's Department of Animal Science is taking its research to the forefront at the 2024 Midwest Section meeting of the American Society of Animal Science (ASAS). Held in Madison, Wisconsin, from March 10-13, the event provides a platform for SDSU faculty, graduate, and undergraduate students to share their latest findings and connect with colleagues.
Graduate student research assistants Lauren Olson, Garrin Shipman, and Katlyn McClellan will present their multi-year projects on various aspects of swine health. Olson's study examines the impact of soy protein and methionine on sow health around farrowing. Shipman investigates the nutritional and digestibility benefits of post-MSC DDGS compared to other fiber sources. McClellan explores the connection between hemoglobin concentration and sow farrowing duration, further researching its effects across two reproductive cycles.
Beyond graduate research, a diverse range of presentations will highlight ongoing work in breeding, nutrition, and growth performance across various livestock species. SDSU Extension specialists will also share their insights on practical applications for swine, beef cattle, sheep, and bison producers.
"This conference is a valuable opportunity to exchange knowledge, learn from others, and address challenges facing the animal production industry," says Ryan Samuel, assistant professor and SDSU Extension Swine Specialist.
The SDSU and SDSU Extension presentations cover a wide array of topics, including:
- Swine: Effects of DDGS inclusion in gestation diets, impact of high oleic soybeans on pork quality, optimizing sow hemoglobin levels, and evaluating multi-enzyme supplementation for growing pigs.
- Beef Cattle: Growth performance with different implant programs, substituting soybean meal for distillers grains, effects of vitamin and mineral supplementation on heifers, and utilizing rolled hybrid rye in feedlot diets.
- Sheep: Evaluating the metabolic potential of rumen bacteria and their impact on performance.
- Bison: Comparing rumen bacterial communities in heifers fed different forage diets.
This comprehensive showcase of research demonstrates SDSU's commitment to advancing animal science knowledge and supporting the success of producers across the region. By participating in the ASAS meeting, SDSU researchers and students gain valuable exposure and contribute to the collective effort of improving animal production practices.
Photo Credit - south-dakota-state-university
Categories: South Dakota, Education, Livestock