calf and cow in a green pasture

DNA testing can have value in commercial beef sector

Assessing the genetic potential for a number of factors can be helpful to producers

There is growing interest in the commercial beef industry around using DNA to inform selection decisions. While traditionally the realm of the seedstock industry, commercial DNA testing and changes in the way we manage cattle have led to some big changes in how we think about genetic selection. DNA testing, in broad terms, means using […] Read more



bales of alfalfa in an open field

Five things to consider when selecting alfalfa varieties

Research shows penny-pinching doesn’t pay off

When shopping for the right alfalfa variety, it’s usually well worth splurging for a top yielder, retired University of Wisconsin-Madison professor and forage expert Dan Undersander says. Undersander ran 298 alfalfa yield trials between 1985 and 2016. Results clearly showed penny-pinching doesn’t pay off when it comes to choosing a variety. “Out of those 298 […] Read more



A pair of calves on a pasture with mountains in the background

Benchmarks indicate healthy calves

Preparing a calf for a healthy life begins before calving

With calving season in full swing, ensuring calves are primed to thrive is top of mind. When refreshing themselves on indicators of good health in calves, producers are encouraged to remember to trust in their knowledge of their own herd and to stay vigilant in monitoring them. “Early detection is always going to be key […] Read more



Join Canadian Simmental breeders in Colombia this summer

Purely Purebred, news from the May 2025 issue of Canadian Cattlemen

For anybody looking for an opportunity to promote their Canadian Simmental genetics abroad this summer, check out the fourth American Simmental Congress in Colombia. The Congress is scheduled to run from July 20-24, 2025. The action-packed week-long event will include world-class speakers, World Simmental and American Simmental board meetings, cattle shows and farm tours. This […] Read more


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New Canadian Cattle Young Leaders, new president takes helm of CCA

NewsMakers from the May 2025 issue of Canadian Cattlemen

Canadian Cattle Young Leaders Brianna Elliot grew up on her family’s ranch in southern British Columbia. Her early involvement in 4-H fostered a passion for the beef industry. She earned a diploma in agricultural management at Olds College and went on to a career in agronomy. Currently, Elliot works as a project lead at Olds […] Read more