Features

Cattleland Feedyards, a 30,000-head feedlot near Strathmore, Alta., is pulling out all stops to find top-quality calves with a specifigenetic trait through its Genetic Breeder Alliance. The concept evolved from studies by Quantum Genetix of Saskatoon exploring the value of the obese (leptin) gene. Calves from Cattleland’s 1,200-cow breeding herd and 5,000 cows in three […] Read more

Recent developments have made artificial insemination (AI) more convenient for commercial beef operations. Advanced synchronization protocols and sexed semen are the real game changers for the commercial sector, says Sean McGrath of Vermilion, Alta. He’s been using AI extensively on his commercial herd for the past five years and now helps teach a farmer course […] Read more

Dr. Reuben Mapletoft, professor of theriogenology with the Western College of Veterinary Medicine in Saskatoon, is among the research scientists who have been working to eliminate the major obstacle affecting the widespread use of AI — the need for observing heat. Not only is heat detection time consuming and, therefore, costly, but it’s terribly inefficient. […] Read more

A well isn’t just a hole in the ground that only needs your attention when something goes wrong. It is a direct conduit from the surface to the aquifer that supplies your water. A little TLC will maximize your well’s working life and help protect it and your groundwater source from contamination. “Be proactive,” says […] Read more

Managing sandy soil and brush have been part and parcel of Rob and Charlene Graham’s beef operation located in the Holland area near Spruce Woods Provincial Park in south-central Manitoba, since they started raising cattle in 1979. Today they run 275 cows, mainly Hereford-Charolais crosses with Angus added in recent years. They have been rotational […] Read more

Soderglen Ranches has added yet another element of quality assurance to its Five Star program that guides the breeding, development and sale of its purebred and crossbred bulls. The first bulls from Canada’s first Express Verified Plus herd were being prepared for the annual Soderglen Select Bull Sale at the ranch northwest of Airdrie, Alta., […] Read more