Reproductive Management Practices for Beef Cow-Calf Producers in Virginia: a Survey.

The document focuses on two studies related to reproductive and genetic management practices in the U.S. beef industry. The first study surveys reproductive management strategies among Virginia beef cow-calf producers, revealing that most have defined breeding seasons, regularly measure body condition scores, and commonly use pregnancy diagnosis and bull breeding soundness exams, with artificial insemination gaining popularity. The second study assesses the adoption of genomic selection in commercial beef herds in the western United States, finding limited current use but identifying key needs such as demonstrating return on investment and improving interpretation of genomic expected progeny differences (EPDs) to facilitate broader adoption. Both studies highlight opportunities for extension programs to support producers in enhancing herd productivity and genetic improvement.