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Carcass Merit Program

• Carcass Merit Program 2007-2008 Brochure (pdf)
• Carcass Merit program Open House: Sept 24 (pdf)

GENERAL INFORMATION

Participants contract to have their cattle custom fed in groups of two or more steer or heifer calves although, we recommend groups of five or more steers or heifers. Cattlemen participating in the program should make sure that their cattle have permanent identification. In addition, program tags will be provided for application prior to entry. We will contract sale of finished cattle to a packer that pays premiums for age and source verified cattle.

OBJECTIVES

Discovering how genetic selection and breeding impact performance and carcass traits is a critical step in preparing for today’s value-based market. This program provides an opportunity for cattlemen to discover, understand and, if necessary, re-direct genetic selection and breeding efforts in their cowherds. Additionally, this program lends an opportunity for cattlemen to test the concept of retained ownership as an option to enhance profitability of their cowherds.

IMPORTANT DATES

INFORMATION DAY: SEPTEMBER 24, 2007 AT UMORE (Rosemount, MN)
ENTRY DEADLINE: SEPTEMBER 24, 2007
PROGRAM BEGINS: NOVEMBER 8, 2007
FIRST IMPLANT DATE: NOVEMBER 29, 2007
OPEN HOUSE: MID-JANUARY 2008

CONTACTS

Dr. Alfredo DiCostanzo & Dr. Grant Crawford