In the gripping finale of our 2023 NCBA coverage, Bridgette Readel of Rural Minds discusses mental health resources in rural America; the University of Tennessee’s Troy Rowan gives producers advice on developing a bull-buying game plan; and Dave Weaber from Terrain talks through ways the industry can rebuild the national cow herd after drought.

Picking sires is where producers can make the greatest impact on their herds. Bulls are responsible for many calves a year, while cows usually contribute one calf a year.

In bull selection, indexes and EPDs are often used as an either/or type of question: “Do I use indexes when I select bulls, or do I stick with EPDs because our operation focuses on _____?” Without a doubt, the answer is always: “Use both.”

Though it’s only February and many are dialed in on calving season, producers remain looking forward to the next management task and next calf crop. 

Whether we are looking to purchase a new truck, determine how much hay will be needed for the winter or decide which NFL team is favored to win the Super Bowl, we use information to make those decisions.

During the bull selection process, growth traits receive a lot of attention.

Simply put, serving something bigger than oneself provides meaning and helps ensure integrity and satisfying work. International Genetic Solutions (IGS), a genetic service provider, doesn’t exist to serve individual breed associations but the commercial beef cattle producer.