Sustainable Agriculture EPD’s Sustainable Agriculture

What is an EPD? Expected Progeny Difference Estimate of genetic merit based on performance and production records. Remember- the environmental factors of each report are not recorded. Can be used for cattle, pigs, etc. Ranchers use EPD’s to improve genetics and production in their herds.

EPD’s What do EPD’s measure and why is this important?

Gestation Length Important Because: The longer a cow goes past her due date, the harder it will be for her to give birth.

Birth Weight & Calving Ease Important Because: Lower birth weights keep the cows from having to give birth to large calves, which keeps the farmer from pulling calves or possibly losing them.

Weaning Weight EPD Important Because: Calves are typically weaned at 205 days. The more they weigh at this time, the more money a rancher will get per pound when they are sold. This means the mother cared for the baby in a desirable fashion.

Yearling Height & Weight Important Because: The bigger the calf, the more money you get when you sell them. This also means that you had to put less feed into the calf the past year to get the maximum output.

Scrotal Circumference EPD Important Because: Larger scrotums have been tied to better fertilization rate. The more fertile a bull is, the more likely your cows are to conceive at breeding time.

Carcass/Production EPD’s Trait Importance Carcass Weight (Pounds of carcass) Marbling (USDA marbling degrees) Ribeye Area (Square inches) Fat thickness (Inches) More meat= More $ More marbling means a higher grade of meat Less fat= less fat to cut off = less weight loss = more $

Stayability & Docility Important Because: If you have a cow that stays in your herd longer, you don’t have to pay to replace her. If you have docile cows that are easy to work with, you have an easier time maintaining your cattle.

Average EPDs by Beef Breed