NOVEL MERGING OF HEIFER REPRODUCTIVE AND MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS EFFICIENCIES TO EXPAND SMALL AND MEDIUM-SIZED FARM BUSINESS PROFIT

The hypothesis of this project is that integrated farming systems coupled with reproductive strategies can enhance SMF profit margins related to female replacement strategies. Research objectives are to 1) evaluate production and economic efficiencies in using single-TAI heifer development system in conjunction with stocker- feeder grazing protocols withmultiple crop rotation (MCR) annual forages, 2) train new and established cattle producers in estrous synchronization and artificial insemination management techniques, and 3) develop and implement extension activities regarding the use of MCR systems with heifer development and its improvement on production and economic efficiencies for SMF. Over a 4-yr period, heifers will be assigned to one of three treatment groups related to grazing and breeding protocols.