Extension Communications
Extension 4-H Youth Building
Ames, Iowa 50011-3630
(515) 294-9915
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Extension Communications |
4-19-04
Contacts:
Daryl Strohbehn, Iowa Beef Center, (515) 294-3020, stroh@iastate.edu
Rachel E. Martin, Iowa Beef Center, (515) 294-9124, remartin@iastate.edu
Factors to Consider Before Starting a Heat Synchronization Program
AMES, Iowa - An Iowa State University expert says there are many
things to consider before jumping into a beef cattle estrus synchronization
program.
Daryl Strohbehn, professor of animal science, advises producers to research
and estimate all the elements involved with a heat synch program. "Each
system has its own strengths and weaknesses, and producers need to develop
a game plan before taking the first step," he says.
As with any business, the slightest change in management can have a significant effect in economic returns, and an estrus synchronization program is no different, according to Strohbehn. When creating a strategy for synchronized AI (artificial insemination), producers should consider these factors:
Labor needs and the trade-offs of labor from other parts of the operation
Number of times cattle will need to be worked through the chute
Cost of synchronized AI versus natural service
Handling facility capability for working cattle
Cost of bulls and the impact or the cost per pregnancy
Impact of mating system on calving distribution
Expectations for synchronized AI
The cow herd (body condition and calving times) as a candidate for estrus synchronization
Perhaps the most significant aspect involved is timely labor availability. Even the least-detailed estrus synch program is labor-intensive for short periods of time, and Strohbehn cautions producers to consider work limitations, especially when it comes to the insemination process. "When heat synchronization is successful and there is a good heat response from the herd, there will be long periods of hard work which could lead to exhaustion of the inseminator, so be prepared because sloppy insemination processes can make a well-planned program unsuccessful," he says.
Different synchronization systems have variation in the number of times cattle have to be worked through the chute which not only affects labor needs but also requires the consideration of handling facilities, stress on the herd and the risk of injury to animals and humans. Strohbehn adds, "A very good handling facility is necessary for synchronized AI programs."
Evaluating the herd for estrus synchronization is another important factor to consider. Late-calving cows and heifers and animals having a poor body condition when calving are poor candidates for AI.
Strohbehn adds that producers need to have guarded expectations. "Don't expect miracles when it comes to synchronized pregnancy rates. A 50 to 60 percent pregnancy rate with an estrus synchronization program can be determined a success," he notes. This compares to 65 to 70 percent success (per cycle) in a natural breeding program.
Thinking through the options associated with estrus synchronization may be more important than implementing the program itself. As a final thought, Strohbehn tells producers to "plan, plan, plan." For successful synchronized AI in your herd, make sure you cover all the bases."
For more information and options on estrus synchronization programs for beef cattle, visit www.iowabeefcenter.org or contact Dr. Daryl Strohbehn at (515) 294-3020 or stroh@iastate.edu.
The Iowa Beef Center began operation in 1996 to support the growth and vitality of the beef cattle industry of the state. A part of Iowa State University Extension, the Iowa Beef Center is the central access point for Iowa State University programs related to the beef industry. For more information, visit the Web site at www.iowabeefcenter.org or call (515) 294-BEEF.
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