Georgia Heifer Evaluation and Reproductive Development Program

Summary

The Georgia HERD program continues to provide an avenue for cattle producers to develop or purchase replacement females according to the beef industry's best management practices.

Situation

Beef cattle is the second largest agricultural commodity in Georgia with a farm gate value estimated at $1 Billion in 2014. The average beef herd in Georgia is less than 30 cows. Small operations incur difficulty developing and sourcing herd replacements.

Response

The Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, UGA Extension and the Georgia Cattlemen's Association provide an avenue for Georgia beef producers to develop beef herd replacements using best management practices through the Heifer Evaluation and Reproductive Development (HERD) program. This collaborative effort is an industry outreach and educational tool that further enhances the efficiency and quality of the Georgia beef industry.

Impact

During the 2015-2016 HERD program, 68 Georgia beef producers consigned 345 heifers. These replacement females were evaluated and developed per a scientifically based protocol over a 6-month period at either the Calhoun or Tifton locations. There were a total of 202 head marketed at auction through the respective HERD sales. The combined offering appraised for $422,600. The vast majority of the revenue and the newly developed heifers remained in Georgia. Generations of offspring from these females will continue to enhance the industry in Georgia and the farms of individual beef producers. This program is highly regarded across the state for its impact on herd improvement and industry education.

State Issue

Animal Production

Details

• Year: 2016
• Geographic Scope: State
• County: Gordon
• Program Areas:
  • Agriculture & Natural Resources