Study: Cool, Calm Cattle Helps Meat, Dairy Production

A recent University of Florida study says cooler, calmer cattle improves overall meat and dairy production. The research focuses on heat stress, and how prevention of heat stress can improve production. The researchers studied 725 Brangus cows – a cross between Brahman and Angus– in south-central Florida, which also is the most common breed in Florida. Researchers found that cows with shorter hair are cooler and more productive and a calm cow also is more productive than an agitated cow.

Meatingplace reports the findings are expected to have the biggest impact for beef producers in hot, humid environments, specifically in the southeast United States and other sub-tropical and tropical regions around the world.

Recent data by Ohio State University estimates that the U.S. livestock industry suffers an annual economic loss of $2.36 billion to heat stress in cattle.

If you have a story idea for the Washington Ag Network, call (509) 547-1618, or e-mail gvaagen@cherrycreekradio.com