Good recordkeeping is key for measurement of performance

We’ve been discussing Measures of Cow Herd Performance, including calculating pounds of calf weaned per cow exposed. While doing so we concluded that while weaning weight is important, it is not the best measure of cow herd performance. To increase weaning weight, emphasis is often placed on increased milk production, increased growth, or both. This often results in increased feed costs for the herd, which can offset the benefit of a heavier calf if not watched.