Boost your angus cattle's potential this summer

By Scout Nelson

North Dakota State University's Carrington Research Extension Center, in collaboration with the North Dakota Angus Association, announces the continuation of the North Dakota Angus University Feed-Out for its 13th year. This program is designed for ranchers interested in evaluating the performance of their Angus-sired steers in a controlled feedlot environment.

Ranchers looking to participate can consign their steers by reaching out to the Carrington Research Extension Center. Suitable steers should possess at least 50% Angus genetics and weigh between 800 and 900 pounds upon delivery, which is scheduled for the week of June 3-7.

Participants are responsible for the feeding costs, which are calculated based on the average cost of gain, in addition to veterinary expenses and a modest yardage charge. These costs are initially covered by the center and are later deducted from the sale proceeds of the cattle, with no interest charged.

Through the program, ranchers receive detailed reports on their steers' growth and health, culminating in a comprehensive analysis of performance metrics such as average daily gain, feed conversion rates, and carcass quality. Last year, the steers showed promising results with an average daily gain of 4 pounds and a conversion rate of 7.1 pounds of feed per pound of gain.

The top performers in the program can look forward to rewards, with $1,500 in prizes distributed among the top three carcasses.

For more information or to consign cattle, ranchers can contact Colin Tobin, the animal scientist at the Carrington Research Extension Center, at 701-652-2951.

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