Project Number: 6218-31630-005-09
Project Type: Nonfunded Cooperative Agreement

Start Date: Jun 01, 2006
End Date: May 31, 2011

Objective:
Determine the stability of heterosis, direct breed effects, and maternal breed effects across two postweaning management systems in crosses of Bonsmara and Brangus beef cattle in order to identify efficient postweaning management systems.

Approach:
Calves of various percentage Bonsmara and other Bos taurus breeds will be produced at El Reno or other locations and evaluated under two postweaning management systems. Standard management will be fall and spring wheat pasture followed by feedlot finishing, and this will be compared with a forage-finishing system that will include wheat pasture, high moisture hay, and warm season forages. Calf average daily gain, body condition, blood urea nitrogen, and serum cortisol will be monitored during the postweaning growth period. After finishing, calves will be harvested at a commercial processing plant, and carcass data will be collected.