Question 1

At what elevation do you PAP test your bulls?

Accepted Answer

We PAP test our entire herd at 6,000’ when they are 12 months old.  This gives us the most accurate test available.  The following articles will provide more details on things to consider when it comes to PAP testing:

https://www.angus.org/tools-resources/national-cattle-evaluation/pulmonary-arterial-pressure

https://guidelines.beefimprovement.org/index.php/Pulmonary_arterial_pressure_(PAP)

https://beefrepro.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/2023-ARSBC-PAP-Questions-and-Answers_-Holt.pdf

Question 2

How do I estimate what a bull should cost?

Accepted Answer

We believe that a good starting point for the price of a bull is, on average, equal to the price of 3 steer calves.  For example, if the average price you receive from your calves is $1500, then you should expect to pay $4500 for a good bull. (3 calves @ $1500 X 3 = $4500) Above average calving ease, wean weight, and other factors also should factor into the price of your next bull.  This article from Illinois State gives a little more information:

https://extension.illinois.edu/blogs/cattle-connection/2025-02-10-what-will-good-bull-cost-me

Question 3

What factors into a calf’s birth weight?

Accepted Answer

While the genetics of the bull play a big role in the birth weight of the calves, several other factors need to be considered.  The genetics of the cow also play a role in how much a calf will weigh at birth.  Other factors include, the condition of the cow, the nutrition of the cow, (especially in her 3rd trimester)gestation length, weather, and environmental conditions.  Here are a few articles that discuss birth weight factors:

https://extension.psu.edu/understanding-epds-and-genomic-testing-in-beef-cattle

https://www.farmtalknews.com/news/factors-that-affect-birth-weight-in-calves/article_2679111c-f90c-11ef-981c-df1ec34471c8.html

Question 4

Why does DNA testing matter when purchasing a bull?

Accepted Answer

DNA testing creates a more accurate EPD profile for the animal tested as well as that animal’s future progeny.  We DNA test our entire herd thus providing every animal with genomic enhanced EPDs.  This ensures that we have all the information available to us and our buyers.  For further information on Genomic Enhanced EPDs please see the following article.

https://extension.psu.edu/understanding-epds-and-genomic-testing-in-beef-cattle

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Frequently asked questions

At what elevation do you PAP test your bulls?

How do I estimate what a bull should cost?

What factors into a calf’s birth weight?

Why does DNA testing matter when purchasing a bull?