FAT THICKNESS measured at the 12th-13th rib and reported in inches. Most of the fat thickness measurements on these bulls are in a very desirable range; which means they have some fat cover, but are not fat. RIBEYE AREA measure at the 12th-13th rib and reported in square inches. REA is an important component of the USDA yield grade determinations of beef carcasses. Larger ribeyes result in more desirable yield grade numbers and a higher percent of the carcass as trimmed retail product. Yearling bulls should have at least 1.1 square inchest/100 lb. of live weight, and larger ribeye areas are generally more desirable. However, extremely large ribeyes (> 1.3 square inches/100 lb. of live weight) are not necessarily desirable. % INTRAMUSCULAR FAT percentage of Intramuscular Fat, (%IMF) measured in a longitudinal scan of the ribeye muscle from the 11th to the 13th rib. It is a measure of marbling, which is the primary factor that determines USDA quality grade of carcasses. %IMF values for yearling Simmental bulls generally fall in the range of 2.0 to 4.5%. YIELD GRADE EPDs for Yield Grade are calculated from ultrasound measurements. YG is the USDA grading system for determining % meat yield differences among carcasses. USDA yield grades are numbered 1-5, with 1 representing a very muscular, trim carcass with a high % meat yield; and a 5 representing a very fat, light-muscled carcass with a low % meat yield. Yield grades can be calculated to the nearest 10th, such as 2.5, 3.9, etc. The average range for Simmental sired progeny would be about 2.2-2.8. YOUR BULLS CARING FOR When you get your performance-tested bull(s) home, observing these management practices will result in the best reproductive performance. FEEDING Remember, the bull is a yearling or long yearling and still has some growing to do. Feed the young bull well. Hay and grain plus a protein supplement will be adequate. You should feed five to ten pounds of grain and one to two pounds of protein supplement in addition to full feed of good quality hay from now until the start of the season. Continue to feed liberally so the bull will grow out well. BREEDING SEASON Plan to use the new bull in a restricted 45-60 day breeding season the first time. Observe him closely to be sure he is servicing and settling females. NUMBER OF COWS The yearling bull should be used on a minimal number of cows or heifers. The number should be governed by his age at the start of the breeding season. The following is a guide: MANAGEMENT AND HOUSING The bull should be kept in a well-fenced lot prior to and following the breeding season. A shed or other natural windbreak should be provided. Supply plenty of clean water and minerals free-choice. Treat routinely for lice and grub worms. Run bulls together with caution. Bulls of similar age which have bred cows together will usually work. Check for any unsoundness which might develop. Test annually for Brucellosis and Leptiospirosis. Vaccinate for IBR, PI3, BVD and Lepto.
BULL’S AGE 12 to 15 Months 15 to 18 Months 18 to 24 Months 24 Months & Over
# OF FEMALES 10 to 12 12 to 18 18 to 25 25 to 35
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