Don't judge a bull by his brawn
Use EPDs to select best bull for your herd

By MONETTE TAYLOR | South Central Texas Edition

Casey Worrell American Angus Association field rep

July 1 ,2004 -- "It's not important what he looks like ... it's what kind of genes he passes on," Casey Worrell, field representative for the American Angus Association told the audience at the recent Luling Foundation Field Day in Luling.

Worrell explained that from the beginning of cattle history, producers chose their bulls according to their looks. Now, with the latest technology and using modern data, ranchers can choose more wisely, checking into the expected progeny difference (EPD) in each bull they select ... if the breeder has recorded the vital information.

More and more, ranchers are seeing the importance and profitability of keeping records on their individual animals, rather than simply herd information.

First, Worrell said each owner needs to decide what they really want their bull to do: use him for commercial breeding, or for a retained herd.

Another important thing to consider when reviewing a bull's EPDs, according to Worrell, is the strengths and weaknesses in the individual herds.

Weaning weights have always been a benchmark with producers, and using animals with EPD information can help to make fair comparisons between animals. Birth weights are, also, important, and using these facts can assist the producer in making more productive decisions.

While EPD information is very important for the bulls, Worrell said it also aids in predicting easier calving and even milk production in the bulls' daughters ... something he referred to as "maternal EPDs." He added it is easier to predict fertility in the females by using higher quality semen from bulls with better EPDs.

Although representing the American Angus Association, Worrell stated each breed association now has a list of what to expect from that breed's EPD information.

Another area of concern is the carcass EPD information. "There have been more changes in the last five years than in the last 20 years," noted Worrell.

For instance, he discussed how the higher carcass yield grades are apparent in the amount of money the producer can expect, and the marbling in ribeye steaks can make the difference between select and choice grading. Carcass grade and marbling are just some of the traits that can be improved upon by correctly using a bull's EPD information.

Worrell, also, mentioned that "back fat," which lowers the carcass price can be determined by the EPD information, too.

In closing, Worrell said the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Resource Center in Nebraska can give adjusted numbers for the different breeds of cattle.