Technology adoption and management practices used in Canadian cow-calf herds

Abstract

Canadian cow-calf producers are facing pressure to adopt management practices and technologies that help increase the economic and environmental sustainability, and public perception of beef production. Our aim was to describe technology adoption, management and record keeping practices in Canadian cow-calf herds, assess associations between herd attributes, productivity outcomes and adoption; and identify opportunities for improvement. Surveys from 131 Canadian cow-calf producers recruited through a national surveillance program were analyzed. Individual female records (80%) and feed testing (84%) were commonly reported as currently or occasionally used, followed by on-farm weigh scales (66%). Western herds were likely to utilize feed testing and nutritionists, ionophores and growth promoting implants, while eastern herds commonly used reproductive technologies. Large herds (>300 cows) were more likely to adopt technologies that aid in data capture (i.e., weigh scales) and follow recommended practices (i.e., feed testing). Paper was the main record keeping format. Production records were commonly utilized for culling and replacement heifer selection. Technology use has increased across the country compared to previous surveys and producers are implementing practices to help increase production efficiency. However, there is an opportunity to increase use of technologies that support individual animal and herd data to help inform ranch decisions.