Herefords Prove Efficient in Kansas Feedlot Test

Results from the 2004 Genetic Outreach Program, coordinated by the Kansas Hereford Association, reveal that Herefords continue to excel in feedlot efficiency. Since 1997, when the American Hereford Association (AHA) started the program, producers have taken advantage of the opportunity to retain ownership and consign steers to the feedlot test. Through GOP, producers are proving their herd’s genetics by obtaining individual performance and feed out data on their Hereford and Hereford-influenced steers. In eight years, more than 5,000 head of steers have been fed through the program, with 600 on feed 2004-2005.

Royal Beef feedyard, Scott City, Kansas, housed the GOP cattle and gathers the feedlot performance and carcass data. The cattle fed for 15 percent less, gained better than the yard average and did this all with 21 percent less feed.

Total cost of gain for the Hereford steers was 47 1/2 cents per pound, while the yard calculated a 53 cent average cost of gain. The GOP cattle calculated an average daily gain of 3.59 lb., as compared to the yard average of 3.29 lb. On a dry matter basis, Herefords converted 4.85 lb. per pound of feed, while the yard converted at a rate of 6.16. ©