Artificial insemination (AI) has been around for a while now, and with the increasing accuracy of Epected Progeny Difference (EPDs), cattlemen are taking advantage of the information available to them. AI gives the seed-stock producer excellent quality genetics with the ability to mix and match pedigrees for the most economic benefit. More progressive, commercial producers are seeing the benefits of AI as well.
Both commercial and purebred producers can expect faster genetic progress, tighter calving seasons, decreased input costs associated with bull purchase and maintenance, and a more marketable product when care is given to sire selection. AI also helps to identify the lower-producing cows in a herd that need to be culled by allowing the herdsman to more closely evaluate records on calves born closer together.
AI with synchronization benefits many operations by decreasing the labor costs of heat detection and decreasing the calving season length even further. There are many protocols for estrus synchronization to choose from and knowing which one fits your operation best may be difficult. We try to offer insight to help make these decisions easier.