1. The Louisiana Forage-Based Bull Performance Test Program J.E. Devillier Area Livestock Agent East/West Feliciana Parishes

2. Objective To evaluate the growth rate and other traits of bulls under cool- season forage conditions common to commercial beef production in the Gulf Coast region of the U.S.

3. Introduction History Guidelines –Bulls –Health –Management Results Summary

5. Bull Qualifications Breed Registry Ranch ID Bull (s) above herd average September 1 to March 31 Weaned 45 days prior to delivery Structurally sound Vaccinated

7. Health Requirements Vaccinated---Lepto, Vibrio, Clostridials, BRD and Pasturella Dewormed 3 weeks before delivery--- lung worms Free from pinkeye, warts, ringworm, mange, lice Dehorned

9. Annual Ryegrass

10. The Management

11. Breeding Soundness Exam

12. Carcass Ultrasound

17. Number of Bulls 2004-06 Breed200420052006Total Angus10232053 Brangus12171544 Charolais2010232 Gelbray7101431 Other691227 Total55*6963*187

18. Growth Trait Averages, 2004-06 Trait200420052006 Initial weight (lb)624622742* Final weight (lb)108811361098 Gain (lb)464514353 ADG (lb)3.103.212.71 Hip height (in)515351 Scrotal cir. (cm)35.635.834.6 Disposition Sc3.02.83.0

19. Carcass Trait Averages, 2004-06 Trait200420052006 REA (in 2 )*10.2110.67 REA/cwt*0.900.98 Fat thickness (in)*0.130.10 % IMF*2.031.54

21. Summary Evaluate under commercial situation Opportunity for producers with small herds Cooperation between state agencies Provides producers with data Field day gives producers an advertising venue

22. The Louisiana Forage-Based Bull Performance Test Program J.E. Devillier Area Livestock Agent East/West Feliciana Parishes