This is Heather Lassen, editorial proofreader, with the March 4, 2022, update from the AJ Daily. Today’s update contains tips for recording birth weights of calves, information about applying for the American Angus Association’s regional manager internship, a report on carcass quality data, and commentary on feeding families in crisis by AFBF President Zippy Duvall.
Tips For Recording Birth Weights
Adapted from a release by Briley Richard, American Angus Association
Because birth weights are a crucial record, it’s important Angus breeders understand the proper way to record that data. Esther McCabe, American Angus Association director of performance programs, shares tips and tricks to help walk you through recording birth weights.
First, weigh calves within 24 hours of calving. Collecting birth weights within 24 hours of calving provides the most accurate read of a calf’s true birth weight. It ensures the calf hasn’t put on or lost a significant amount of weight since birth.
When choosing a scale, McCabe says using a digital or spring scale is the only method of obtaining the actual birth weight measurement of that animal. Options like hoof tapes and heart and girth measurements provide only an estimated weight, often overestimating the weight of smaller calves and underestimating the weight of larger calves. Digital and spring scales eliminate that estimation factor.
You can listen to the full interview with Esther McCabe or read the full article at angusjournal.net.
Applications Open for Regional Manager Internship
Adapted from a release by Peyton Schmitt, Angus Communications
The American Angus Association is accepting applications for its regional manager internship, to take place in the fall of 2022. The 13 regional managers of the Association serve as a resource in the field to Angus breeders. The Association’s field services team is excited to offer this position, designed to enhance a student’s ability to build effective relationships, craft promotional strategies and learn about the cattle industry. The nine-week, full-time internship begins in August and lasts until December. It will be based at the Association headquarters in Saint Joseph, Mo., with numerous opportunities to travel to different regions of the country.
To read more or to apply, go to angus.org.
CAB Insider: Carcass Quality Ramping Up
Adapted from a release by Paul Dykstra, Certified Angus Beef LLC
Certified Angus Beef®-brand certified carcasses surged during the second week of February, posting the largest supply for that time frame.
All the important factors aligned to generate the rapid uptick in qualifying carcasses. Beginning with the fed-cattle slaughter, that week it featured 8.3% more harvested steers and heifers than the same week in 2021, when the previous record was posted.
As well, the proportion of fed cattle meeting the predominantly black-hided live-animal specification was record high at 72% of the total. That’s a generous share for any week in history, right at the all-time highs for that measure, as well.
For the full report, visit cabcattle.com and select “CAB Insider” from the News tab.
Feeding Families During Peace and Crisis
Adapted from commentary by Zippy Duvall, president, American Farm Bureau Federation
Duvall says, “Like many of you, my heart has been heavy with the news of war with Russia’s attack on Ukraine. I am praying daily for the people of Ukraine, wisdom for President Biden and our allies, and for a swift resolution. These events have been a sobering reminder of how fragile peace can be and how we all play a role in protecting our families and communities from security risks at home and abroad.
“As farmers and ranchers, our mission remains clear: to provide a safe, sustainable supply of food, fiber and renewable fuel. Our nation’s food security is a matter of national security — in times of war and peace.”
To read more of Duvall’s commentary, visit fb.org.
The AJ Daily is compiled by Paige Nelson, field editor for theAngus Journal. For more Angus news, visit angusjournal.net.