The following publications cover topics related to Mizzou Repro — Reproductive Management of Beef Cattle. For a complete list of MU Extension publications, visit the main Publications page.
Decreasing Generation Interval to Increase Genetic Progress
Reviewed
To see the greatest return on investing in genomic-enhanced EPDs, cattle breeders must decrease the average age of sires and dams. Learn how to shorten the generational invterval to speed up genetic progress in this University of Missouri Extension guide.
Selection of Replacement Heifers for Commercial Beef Cattle Operations
New
To maintain herd numbers, commercial cow-calf operations must buy or develop females to replace culled cows. Learn about different stratgegies so you can make the most economical decision for your farm or ranch with long-term profitability in mind.
Facilities for Artificial Insemination of Beef Cattle
New
Access to functional artificial insemination (AI) facilities is a challenge for beef cattle producers. Learn what to look for in an AI facility and view a list of portable breeding barns available through University of Missouri Extension.
Detection of Estrus in Beef Cattle Herds
New
Correctly detecting cows and heifers in estrus can be critical for beef producers. Learn behavioral and physiological changes that indicate standing heat, how to use estrus detection aids and how to time artificial insemination in this MU Extension guide.
Production Records for Commercial Cow-Calf Operations
New
Learn what cow-calf production records are needed for making management decisions in a beef cattle operation, the basic metrics to consider monitoring, and how to interpret the results in this University of Missouri Extension guide.
Inbreeding: Its Meaning, Uses and Effects on Farm Animals
Reviewed
Mating schemes of animals are classified as either inbreeding or outbreeding. Mating closely related animals is inbreeding. Outbreeding is mating less closely related animals, but people disagree about where to draw the line. Learn more in this guide.
Guide to Estrus Synchronization Products
Revised
Several protocols and other resources allow beef producers to effectively synchronize estrus and ovulation in the herd. Read this guide for an overview of the function, handling considerations, and proper administration of estrus synchronization products.
Crossbreeding Systems for Small Herds of Beef Cattle
Revised
Crossbreeding in commercial beef cattle production improves efficiency through heterosis and breed complementation.
Calving Season Considerations for Commercial Beef Cattle Operations
New
Managing when cows calve can have significant implications for the profitability of a cow-calf operation. Learn how to manage for a short, defined calving period and thus reduce costs and optimize productivity of the cow herd in this MU Extension guide.
Preparation and Handling of Catheters for Artificial Insemination of Cattle
New
Learn proper semen handling to achieve maximum conception rates with artificial insemination in beef cattle. Reduced conception rates occur if semen is handled improperly before, during or after thawing. See this illustrated MU Extension guide for more.
Determination of Pregnancy Status in Beef Herds
New
Pregnancy examination provides valuable information that enables cow-calf operations to make management decisions that increase profitability and improve long-term reproductive efficiency. Learn about several methods in this MU Extension guide.
Reproductive Management of Bos indicus-Influenced Beef Cattle
New
Bos indicus cattle present challenges with estrus synchronization. Learn about the timing of estrus onset for them, their susceptibility to stress, and considerations and expectations when breeding them in this University of Missouri Extension guide.
The System Concept of Beef Production: BIF Fact Sheet
Reviewed
The systems concept of beef production incorporates an awareness that there is more to consider in a beef cattle enterprise than simply the level of production. What is most important is the overall efficiency of the enterprise.
Dairy Grazing: Reproduction
New
Dairy producers, learn about the cow’s reproductive structure and its more critical hormones, plus various ways to get cows and heifers pregnant in this University of Missouri Extension guide.
Beef Production Glossary: BIF Fact Sheet
Reviewed
This glossary lists terms and phrases beef producers should be familiar with.
Understanding and Using Sire Summaries: BIF Fact Sheet
Reviewed
Sire selection is one of the most important decisions cow/calf producers make. If it is effective, sire selection will account for nearly 90 percent of the genetic improvement in a herd.
Using Performance Data in Judging Classes: BIF Fact Sheet
Reviewed
Judging contests are an important educational tool. Someday young cattle producers will be faced with selection decisions that affect the profitability of their operations. This guide can be used to train youth interested in modern beef selection practices.1