SDSU Beef Day 2022 Summary Publication
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
1-18-2022
Abstract
Study Description:
Heifers were stratified into two groups based on initial body weight and each group was randomly assigned to one of two treatments: a control group (n=30) and a precision group (n=30). Treatment groups are separated into different pastures to graze dormant native range from November to April. Groups are rotated monthly to reduce individual pasture influence. Heifers in the control group are supplemented as a group and bunk fed 5lb/head/day with dried distiller grain pellets (DDGS). Heifers within the precision group will be supplemented individually using the SmartFeed system (C-Lock Inc. Rapid City, SD) and offered 5lb/head/day DDGS pellets. Individual daily weight and daily rate of gain will be measured within both groups using SmartScale technology. A time series trend analysis will be used to forecast animal BW at time of breeding, ensure individual heifer gain is satisfactory and adjust amount of supplement delivered to ensure animals are achieving target weight gains.
Pages
1
Publisher
South Dakota State University
Rights
© 2022 South Dakota Board of Regents
Recommended Citation
Dagel, Anna; Menendez, Hector III; and Brennan, Jameson R., "Improving Heifer Development Programs Using Precision Technology and DDGS" (2022). SDSU Beef Day 2022 Summary Publication. 8.
https://openprairie.sdstate.edu/sd_beefday_2022/8