The Beef Cattle Program
The current beef herd at Truman State University consists of 25 registered purebred and full-blood Gelbvieh cattle calving in the spring of each year and approximately 15 Balancer females (Gelbvieh X Angus) that calve in the fall.
Artificial insemination and embryo transfer are used in herd development in conjunction with clean-up bulls. Weaned female calves are selected for replacements for the University herd with the remaining heifers marketed through private treaty and consignment sales.
Select bulls are raised for sale with excess males marketed as weaned steers twice a year. Cattle sold off the farm are prepared, exhibited and marketed by students.
Both herds of cattle (spring and fall) are utilized extensively by faculty and undergraduates for research projects and classroom/laboratory instruction. Many of these projects have been externally funded and have been referenced in journal articles and popular press articles as well as presentations at local and national scientific meetings.
University-bred cattle have enjoyed acceptance by a wide range of buyers in various states and Canada and have had modestly good success in the show ring.
All work is carried out by undergraduate students under the direction of the Farm Manager. Numerous opportunities for hands-on learning are afforded to interested students.
For More Information
Contact Dr. Michael Seipel
mseipel@truman.edu
Ag Science Major
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