Many things to consider when selecting breeding stock

By Gary Sliworsky
OMAFRA Rep.

During the next couple of months, many producers will be out assessing bull markets and trying to define their needs for the up-and-coming breeding season. The following information, from an Alberta Agriculture release, gives some thought on looking for that bull.
Potential buyers go through the process of visiting farms and test stations, considering factors such as feeding, conditioning and the breeding programs of seedstock producers. These buyers will be asking questions concerning birth weights, weaning weights, gains, rations and bloodlines of potential herd sires. They may even want to see the sires and dams of these herd sires to assess conformation, temperament and stature. Prices, guarantees and deliveries are usually also discussed.
Some producers do a better job of selecting bulls or breeds of bulls than others. Having a clear, defined goal of what is being selected for or what is being worked towards is a definite benefit when selecting bulls. Trying to meet the demands of the feedlot industry as well as trying to meet the demands of the farm’s own goals of producing efficient females can be a tall order. Having a ‘systems approach’ to defining these goals helps lay out a plan of action and acquisition.
For instance, if pasture feed supplies are short due to climate and/or unproductive soils, a producer might select a bull breed to supply females that can grow, breed and calf out under that set of circumstances. This bull should or could also supply feeder calves that would grow out and fatten according to the demands of the packing industry.
Commercial producers try to produce a desirable product as efficiently as possible. The purebred breeder’s goal should be to know the goals and try to meet the expectations. In the few months, both breeders and potential buyers should discuss their goals and hopefully each will achieve some measure of satisfaction.
Selecting for highly heritable traits, like growth traits, is still very important just like birth weight, reproductive soundness and conformation. The key is balancing this out with the farm’s ‘systems approach’ goals.
Plan now and know where your breeding program is going. If it needs to change, there’s still time to start this year.