At a time when prices for inputs are uncertain and markets waiver significantly, there is one incredibly important way to increase the profitability of any cattle enterprise – by using genetic improvement.

Crossbreeding provides commercial cattlemen the opportunity to combine desirable characteristics of two or more breeds and increase performance due to hybrid vigor (heterosis).

The ability to focus intently is often a worthwhile and productive tool for one seeking improvement. However, when it comes to genetic selection – whether that focus is on calving ease or weaning weight – that intense focus can often have unintended, and sometimes disastrous consequences.

The thermometer is nearing 100; the heat index is even higher than that; and we notice that our cattle are suffering the effects.

Hot, dry summer months can create great hardships for management of beef heifers and cows. One way to help minimize stress on the land and resources available to you and your cowherd is to choose animals which have performance that is optimized for your production environment.