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AHA completes first year of heterosis studyBy Doug Rich The American Hereford Association (AHA) held a media day at their headquarters in Kansas City, Mo., to announce the first-year results of a heterosis study. The objective of the research project is to conduct controlled crossbreeding; comparing progeny sired by Hereford and Angus bulls, under real life commercial conditions. Cooperators in the project are California State University at Chico, Lacey Livestock, Harris Feeding Co., and Harris Ranch Beef Co. Ten Hereford bulls were matched with 10 Angus bulls of comparable genetics. The study looked at the economic differences at the ranch, feedlot, and packing plant phases of production. DNA testing was used to determine the parentage of each calf used in the study. "Preliminary data suggests a significant economic advantage of $86 per head in the feedlot phase of the Hereford-sired calves," Jack Ward, AHA chief operating office and director of breed improvement, said. "The net advantage favored the Hereford-sired cattle by nearly $78 per head over the entire production cycle." The Hereford-sired calves excelled in gain, feed efficiency, morbidity, and mortality resulting in a lower cost of gain. The Angus-sired group had a significant advantage in quality grade. "What we hope to show with this study is what Hereford cattle have to add on the heterois side," Ward said. This is only the first year of a project that will be repeated in 2008 and 2009. The number of cows and bulls in the study were increased for the second year of the project. "Herefords are a strong breed that is still relevant," Craig Huffhines, AHA executive vice-president, said. A copy of the complete report is available at Hereford.org. Doug Rich can be reached by phone at 785-749-5304 or e-mail at richhpj@aol.com. 10/1/07
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