By Scout Nelson
As more than 50% of beef operations finish calving according to USDA, 2020 report, cattle producers begin preparing for the next breeding season to produce next year’s calf crop. Proper planning helps improve reproductive success whether producers use artificial insemination or natural service breeding systems.
Taylor Grussing, SDSU Extension Cow/Calf Field Specialist, highlighted that organized breeding management supports healthier herds and stronger calf production. Artificial insemination allows producers to bring high-quality genetics directly into the herd. Producers can purchase semen by the unit and make breeding decisions for each cow or heifer based on herd goals and available resources. Preparing breeding supplies early, cleaning equipment, and maintaining full nitrogen tanks help operations run smoothly before cattle begin showing estrus.
Estrus synchronization programs also require careful timing. Producers using synchronization plans should closely follow protocols, so products are administered correctly and at the proper time. Planning ahead helps improve breeding efficiency and reproductive performance.
Natural service breeding requires close attention to bulls before turn out. Bulls should be examined 60 to 90 days before breeding season begins. Producers should evaluate body condition scores and adjust feed rations to achieve a score of 5 to 6 on the 9-point scale. Bulls should have only 1 to 0 outlined ribs visible and remain in strong condition to breed cows successfully.
In actively cycling herds, bulls may need to cover 5% of cows that enter heat on a single day. Breeding soundness exams help veterinarians evaluate semen quality and physical condition before breeding starts. If semen quality is poor, bulls may need retesting after 2 weeks or more because sperm production takes approximately 60 days. Producers also need enough bulls available, with one mature fertile bull generally servicing 25 to 30 cows. Younger bulls may require lower cow-to-bull ratios and additional support.
Herd health management also supports breeding success. Vaccines are commonly administered at least 30 days before breeding season begins. Producers should work with veterinarians to create vaccination plans that protect cattle from disease while supporting reproductive health. Dewormers and fly control products are often delayed until cattle move to grass during peak forage growth and fly season. Proper planning helps support healthier cattle and stronger reproductive performance throughout the breeding season.
These topics and more are also covered in chapters of the Beef: Best Management Practices for Cow-Calf Production.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-steveoehlenschlager
Categories: South Dakota, Livestock, Beef Cattle