Effects of Mating and Management Systems on Beef Production

In recent years there has been increased interest in crossbreeding of beef cattle and with the introduction of new breeds from the European continent increased interest in the use of larger and/or higher milking breeds in these crossbreeding systems. With the expected increase in nutrient requirements for maintenance and milk production associated with increased size of cow and increased milk production, changes in management practices need to be evaluated. This project was designed to evaluate the Simmental-Hereford and the Angus-Hereford two breed rotations and the straightbred Hereford, with all three groups receiving either usual herd management (regular) or a higher level of management consisting of a higher energy level for developing replacement heifers during their first winter and a flush each year at breeding time extending from 30 days prior to the breeding season and carrying 20 days into the breeding season (super)