7 Assessment of beef cattle record keeping utilization and application: a collaboration of the Alabama Beef Cattle Improvement Association and the Alabama Cooperative Extension System

Abstract

Abstract Beef cattle producers engaged in the Alabama Beef Cattle Improvement Association (BCIA) Commercial Record Keeping Program were surveyed to assess application of record keeping to operational management. In 2014, the specialized record-keeping system utilized by Alabama BCIA transitioned from software-based, centralized processing to an internet-based system to allow for hands-on use. The application of this new system and hands-on use was evaluated. A brief, online survey of 14 multiple-choice questions was developed. Question topics included basic demographics, value level, length of use, frequency of use, devices used, record areas, management decisions and meeting needs. The Qualtrics®XM web-based survey tool was used to evaluate results. A response rate of 44.64% was reached. Respondents represented cattlemen in business for 30+ years 44%, 20+ years 32%, 10+ years 12%, 5 to 10 years 4%, 3 to 5 years 4% and less than 3 years 4%. Cow inventory reflected 50 to 100 cows 24%, 100 to 200 cows 24%, 20 to 50 cows 20%, 200 to 300 cows 16%, 300 to 400 cows 8% and 500+ cows 8%. Longevity of BCIA record keeping reached 20 to 30 years 24%, 1 to 5 years 24%, 5 to 10 years 20%, 10 to 15 years 16%, 15 to 20 years 12% and beginning 4%. Value of performance records rated extremely valuable 72.0%, and hands-on access rated very valuable 92.0%. A majority indicated accessing the system weekly 40.0%, monthly 16.0% or daily 8.0%. The most common device was combination of computer and smartphone 36.0%. The most active record keeping areas were calving records 21.57%, weaning data 19.64% and culling cows based on performance 17.86%. Planned expansion was yearling data for replacement heifers 22.58% and collecting mature cow weights at calf weaning 20.97%. Overall, responding cattle producers indicated the internet-based system was definitely meeting their needs 88.0%.