Growing Beef Newsletter
February 2025, Volume 15, Issue 8
Iowa Beef Center Hosted the 2nd Annual Genetic Symposium
Dacia Schoulte, Iowa Beef Center intern
The Iowa Beef Center hosted its second annual Genetic Symposium on December 16 and 17 at the Hansen Ag Learning Center in Ames. Producers from across the Midwest came to learn about reproductive strategies.
Monday afternoon started with opening comments from Dr. Randie Culbertson before g to a panel of representatives from semen companies to discuss and answer questions about Artificial Insemination use in the cow herd. Topics included the advantages and challenges of using AI, implementation of successful estrus synchronization programs and the importance of proper cow herd nutrition.
As the afternoon progressed, attendees had the opportunity to choose three of six breakout sessions: Bull Fertility Insights with Dr. Saulo Zoca, Economics of Replacement Females with Dr. Charley Martinez, Advancements in Reproductive Management with Nicky Oosthuizen, RAAA Maternal Indexes with Dr. Lindsey Upperman, Advanced Reproductive Technologies with Dr. Peter Schmitt, and Economics of AI and Developing a Successful Breeding Program with Dr. Sandy Johnson.
The Keynote speaker of the night was Dr. Bob Weaber, who presented on Selection for Maternal Performance. He highlighted the importance of sustainability in the beef industry when it came to a cow’s maternal performance and her ability to remain in the herd.
Day one ended with a mock heifer sale, where attendees were able to purchase heifers based on criteria given to them by others, and a prime rib supper provided by the ISU Meat Lab.
Day two started off with live animal demonstrations. Attendees were able to rotate between demonstrations on ovum pick-ups with AMVC, heat detection technology with Dr. Caitlin Wiley-Messerschmidt and Hunter Mouw with 701x, and an estrus synchronization planner designed by Dr. Garland Dahlke.
The 2024 Genetic Symposium wrapped up with a producer panel discussing reproduction strategies. Producers on the panel highlighted topics like the cattle cycle, the demographics of their buyers, and the percentage of buyers who purchase sight unseen.
The Iowa Beef Center would like to thank all of this year’s sponsors, speakers, and attendees.
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