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The Florida Bull Test was established in 1999 at the North Florida Research and Education Center in Marianna. Bull tests have been conducted each subsequent year since its inception. The bull test begins in August and terminates with an annual production sale in January. Only bulls meeting specific performance criteria are permitted to compete in the test (see bull test rules available at http://flbulltest.ifas.ufl.edu).
The primary objectives of the
Florida Bull Test are: 1. Make a significant impact on the southeastern United States beef industry by promoting the use of performance tested bulls. 2. Provide a standardized environment for evaluating post-weaning performance in yearling bulls. 3. Serve as an educational aid for the improvement of beef cattle 4. Provide useful records to seed stock producers for evaluation his/her breeding program. 5. Provide seed stock/commercial producers a source of performance tested bulls, thereby adding value to the livestock they produce and market. The Florida Bull Test provides seed stock producers an opportunity to develop and market their bulls at a central location using best-known management techniques. Seed stock producers from all over the United States can consign bulls to the test. The Florida Bull Test allows seed stock consignors to evaluate bulls in an independent environment. Important data is collected on each bull insuring that Florida cattle produced from these bulls will be adapted to subtropical environments while being able compete at the national level when shipped to other parts of the United States. Data collection includes: · Growth traits-Birth weight, weaning weights, yearling weights, birth weight EPD, weaning weight EPD, yearling EPD, frame scores as well as post-weaning ADG. · Carcass traits-Backfat thickness, ribeye area, intramuscular fat and rump fat thickness determined by ultrasound. · Reproductive traits-Breeding soundness evaluations performed by a licensed veterinarian. · Disposition-Determined by a panel of experienced researchers and cattle producers. Performance tested bulls can have large effects on the quality of cattle produced by individual producers. Data has shown that performance tested bulls are a wise investment returning higher profits in the replacement heifers and calves they produce. For additional information on consigning or purchasing performance tested bulls, visit the NFREC-Florida Bull Test website (http://flbulltest.ifas.ufl.edu) or call (850) 482-9904. [Hansen]
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For IFAS-related
questions or information, please contact IFAS
External Relations.
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