The I-29 Moo University Beef On Dairy Dialogue Webinar Series continues Thursday, June 19 from 12 noon to 1 p.m. CDT, focusing on the economics of beef x Holstein and Holstein feedlot steers with Melanie Pimentel-Concepción from Michigan State University.

Since 2017, dairy producers have increasingly adopted the practice of breeding their low genetic merit dairy dams to beef sires in hopes of enhancing the value of the resulting offspring. Their goal is to produce cattle that can achieve added premiums from branded programs requiring a black-hided phenotype, such as Certified Angus Beef. Limited research indicates that, when compared to their Holstein counterparts, beef x Holstein steers exhibit faster growth rates, greater feed efficiency, and carcasses with increased muscling and yield.

In the current marketplace, the performance and conformation (whether they are beef or dairy type) of these beef x Holstein offspring can vary, affecting their relative value. There is limited research on the economics of these crossbreds; Michigan State researchers conducted studies to examine the feedlot performance, carcass traits, and economics of beef x Holstein and Holstein steers. The results from these studies indicate that breeding dairy dams to beef sires can result in steers capable of having a lower cost of gain, a greater carcass value, and a greater breakeven feeder calf cost when compared to Holstein steers.

Melanie Pimentel-Concepción is a PhD student at Michigan State University, working with Dr. Dan Buskirk. She obtained her BS from the University of Puerto Rico in Animal Science and an MSc in Animal Science from Michigan State University, concentrating on beef cattle management. Her research evaluates feedlot performance, carcass traits, liver and gastrointestinal health, and the economics of beef x Holstein and Holstein cattle.

There is no fee to participate in the webinar; however, registration is required at least one hour prior to the webinar. Register online at:

https://go.iastate.edu/FEEDLOTECONOMICS

For more information, contact: in Iowa, Fred M. Hall, 712-737-4230; in Minnesota, Jim Salfer, 320-203-6093; or in South Dakota, Madison Kovarna, 605-688-4116.