I have spent the last few days in training for Genex and have had the opportunity to meet and speak with some amazing people. People who are working to improve cattle genetics for the better. After listening to several presentations it has got me thinking how many of our cattlemen run their operations. Most any cattle producer takes his best bull and puts out with his herd, and most any producer just wants a calf on the ground each year to bring them a profit. However, I feel that the future is here and with improvements in reproductive technologies we should be taking advantage of the opportunities we have offered to us to improve our own herd’s genetics.

In the beef industry we all do different things for different reasons. Using estrus synchronization and A.I. is just another choice that some producers make and others don’t. Artificial Insemination is a great start to beginning your herd development. With A.I., you are offered so many different options in expanding your bull selection. There is no better way to build a cow herd that you can be more proud of than by using A.I. sires. Most commercial cattleman are in the business to produce better cattle in all aspects of the industry from replacement heifers to high average daily gains on calf crops. With the success of timed breeding after using a synchronization program you are sure to quickly improve your herd’s conception rates which will increase your calf crop. There are many different synchronization programs available; many just depend on how many times you want to work your cattle. Artificial Insemination can become labor intense but is very well worth it. The point I am trying to make is that with synchronization and A.I., you will quickly build a better commercial herd. 

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Hi! I am Jessica Lester and a recent graduate of McNeese State University in Lake Charles, Louisiana. Since graduation, I am currently pursuing my passion of cattle reproduction and genetics with an internship with Genex Cooperative all while searching for a promising career. I grew up in Covington, Louisiana in a Registered Polled Hereford cow/calf operation. In addition to developing superior genetics, my family works closely to ensure that Shady Ridge’s focus involves breeding and raising quality show cattle to meet junior and open exhibitors’ needs. I have come to realize the impact that agriculture and animal agriculture have in our daily lives.  Growing up, I had the opportunity to have a hand in nearly every aspect of our industry from showing cattle, purchasing/raising registered Polled Herefords, becoming certified to Artificially Inseminate, and being involved in day to day decisions that come with a cow/calf operation. Throughout the years, I have been a very active 4-H, FFA, Louisiana Jr. Polled Hereford Association and Louisiana Jr. Cattlemen’s Association member. More...