Steer Feedout For Fall-Born Calves
ELDON COLE
MT. VERNON, MO.
Entries are being taken until May 10 for steers born after July 1, 2019. Those animals will be part of the Missouri Steer Feedout and will be sent to the Iowa Steer Carcass Futurity on June 2. Collection points will be the Joplin Regional Stockyards, Carthage and the Paris Veterinary Clinic, Paris.
Eligible steers must have been weaned no less than 28 days, preferably 45 days and weigh 500 pounds or more at pickup time. They must also receive necessary vaccinations, including two rounds of modified live vaccine, 28 days before pickup.
An entry minimum is 5 head. Birth dates are helpful in calculating steer performance but is not required. Entries cost $20 per head, non-refundable. All costs for feed, implants, treatments, etc. will be deducted from your final settlement sheet.
Progressive cow-calf owners use the feedout to learn the strengths and weaknesses of their breeding and management program. The feedlot and carcass results can help build your herd's reputation when you market your feeders or breeding animals. The data also lets you know if your cattle are average, above or below average compared to others in the program.
At the first processing, steers will be assigned a feeder cattle frame, muscle and body condition score by a Missouri Market News grader. They'll also have a market value placed on them which is used to determine their profit or loss at the end of the feedout.
For additional information you may go on-line and/or view the most recent Power Point show on the feedout. Your nearest University of Missouri Extension field specialist in livestock can also answer questions. ∆
ELDON COLE: Extension Livestock Specialist, University of Missouri
