Beef-on-dairy with Jason Smith

Jason Smith of Texas A&M joins host Matti McBride on this episode of the Progressive Dairy Podcast to discuss all things beef-on-dairy. An associate professor and extension beef cattle specialist at Texas A&M with an extensive beef background, Smith shares his knowledge and advice for dairy producers looking to capitalize with beef semen.  Here is the episode breakdown: ~1:11 – Smith’s background and current position ~4:00 – How beef-on-dairy calves benefit the beef industry ~6:50 – The importance of a healthy beef-on-dairy calf ~13:50 – Smith explains what it means to sell cattle “on grid.” ~16:00 – Yield grade vs. quality grade ~21:00 – Consider market fluctuation in retaining ownership ~22:40 – Communicate with buyers to leverage a fair price. ~24:45 – The importance of sire selection during mating ~32:00 – Expected progeny differences (EPDs): Birthweight and Calving Ease Direct ~34:30 – Keeping records can benefit operations down the road. ~35:30 – Liver abscesses ~42:00 – Importance of feeding colostrum to beef-on-dairy calves ~44:30 – How beef-on-dairy calves add value to the supply chain ~49:00 – Rapid-fire questions