Beef Cattle

This document is intended to be an accurate outline of Georgia’s Animal Waste Regulations at the time of publication, and is not a comprehensive citation. The new regulations require changes in the way AFOs do business. The focus on management of nutrients can improve profitability by better use of nutrients produced on the farms and reduced need for fertilizer purchase. There may also be opportunities for composting and/or selling manures for off-farm uses. Although the new regulations require more record keeping, the records may help improve farm management and productivity. While these regulations may appear complex, they are designed to protect both the farmer and the environment. Compliance with these regulations will provide the farmer with documentation that they are making a conscientious reasonable effort to operate their farm in a safe and environmentally sound manner.

Genomic testing is not a new idea in the eyes of science, but its application in today's beef industry is still met with some confusion. The purpose of this publication is to explain to county agents and producers how genomic testing works, how to use the results, and why this technology is valuable to cattlemen. This bulletin covers a simple history of genetic technology; parentage testing and simple inheritance; how genomic tests work, including sample collection and how results are used; and accuracy and GE-EPDs.

With the growth of the ethanol industry in recent history, the availability of distillers grains, a byproduct of ethanol production, has increased. Distillers grains can serve as an excellent source of nutrients for beef cattle. However, several considerations must be taken into consideration before utilizing this resource. These include economics, nutrient content and potentially deleterious effects when fed improperly. This publication will provide guidelines and examples of how to use this feed resource.