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Florida Bull Test

Animal Science

Kalyn Waters
CED/Agriculture Agent
University of Florida
Bonifay

Abstract

Developing bulls is a challenge for mid-sized and smaller producers. The Florida Bull Test (FBT) was founded (2000) in response to these challenges. The FBT allows producers to consign purebred bulls to a performance test at the cost of development (no profit) while gaining critical production data. Objectives: The objectives of the FBT are: 1) to provide consignors data to improve their operations, while economically developing bulls; and 2) to provide cow/calf producers with bulls that will enhance genetic, and 3) use the data from bulls consigned as an educational tool. Methods: The FBT is governed by a committee of consignors, Extension specialists/agents, and producers that set requirements and standards. This includes index requirements for the sale. The FBT is an on-farm test located at the North Florida Research and Education Center. Over the multi-phase test consignors receive performance data on bulls, educational consultations, and training. At the end of the 112-day test qualifying bulls (based on performance index) can be sold at the FBT sale. The sale provides a marketing platform for consignors, offering buyers a place to purchase bulls screened through an unbiased third-party (Extension). Results: Over three years, 69 consigners from four states consigned 328 bulls, with 225 being sold to producers in four states. The average herd size of the buyers is 105 head and 70% of buyers are repeat customers. Buyers rank FBT data as a key purchasing decision. Consignors (88%) rank the integrity of the data to their management as a reason for consignment. An increase of $500 or more to bull’s value was indicated by 63% of consignors. A survey of buyers indicated that the average service life of a FBT bull is 4 years siring 17 calves a year with an average increase of $67 per calf sired by bulls from the FBT as compared to those sired from bulls from other sources. Impact: The FBT provides an unbiased performance evaluation of bulls. Consigners utilize the data to improve genetics in their own herds. Since 2000 there have been 2,217 bulls consigned and sold through the FBT with an impact of $10,100,652.

Authors: Kalyn Waters, Nicolas Simmons , Doug Mayo, Mark Mauldin, Dr. Angela Gonella Diaza, Dr. Nicolas DiLorenze, Dr. Jose Dueux
  1. Kalyn Waters CED/Agriculture Agent, UF/IFAS Extension Holmes County, Florida, 32425
  2. Nicolas Simmons County Extension Director & Agriculture, UF/IFAS Extension Escambia County, Florida, 32425
  3. Doug Mayo Agriculture and Natural Resources Agent, UF/IFAS Extension Jackson County, Florida, 32446
  4. Mark Mauldin Agriculture and Natural Resources Agent, UF/IFAS Extension Washington County, Florida, 32448
  5. Dr. Angela Gonella Diaza State Beef Cattle Specialist, North Florida Research and Education Center/UF/IFAS Extension, Florida, 32446
  6. Dr. Nicolas DiLorenze State Beef Cattle Specialist, North Florida Research and Education Center/UF/IFAS Extension, Florida, 32446
  7. Dr. Jose Dueux State Forage Specialist, North Florida Research and Education Center/UF/IFAS Extension, Florida, 32446