Cow-calf producers are familiar with the concept that cow fertility is the major driver for positive profit margins in their herds. However, we may not be used to seeing actual number calculations or projections from where these types of statements are derived.

Over the last three- to four-decade period, the beef industry has made great use of genetic selection tools to improve economically important traits. Much of that improvement is due to the implementation and use of expected progeny differences (EPDs).

As a producer, a veterinarian is someone you can call to help with emergency situations and yearly herd health decisions like vaccinations and parasite control. But with years of school and training, he or she can do much more, especially in the field of reproduction. From heifer development to pregnancy diagnosis, a veterinarian can provide reproductive services to your operation that will likely yield you a higher profit margin.