25th Annual Student Research Conference
Investigating the Effects on Growth Performance of Feeder Calves from Substitution of Corn with Grain By-products in Creep Ration
Tyler J. Rodman
Dr. Glenn R. Wehner and Dr. Abdo Alghamdi, Faculty Mentors
With corn prices at record highs, this research was designed to test alternatives in creep feed supplement for weanling calves. Calves were divided to two groups fed creep feed rations that included either corn or the alternative by-products as the source of energy for approximately 60 days. We measured weight gain at a monthly interval. Calves fed the corn-containing ration had an average daily gain (ADG) of 2.6 while calves fed the alternatives had 2.1 ADG. Feed conversion and an economic analysis were then evaluated to determine the viability of the experimental ration on the market. Calves fed the experimental ration converted 5.13 lbs. of grain to 1 lb. of gain while calves fed the control ration converted 4.34 lbs. of grain to 1 lb. of gain. Cost per lb. of gain including the hay and grain for the experimental group was $0.91, while the control group was $0.82.
Keywords: Calves, Cattle , Beef, Creep Feed
Topic(s):Agricultural Science
Presentation Type: Poster
Session: 100-4
Location: Georgian Room - SUB
Time: 3:30