PSX-B-19 Producers’ Perception of Utilization of Reproductive Technologies in Small Cattle Herds

Abstract

Abstract A multitude of assisted reproductive technologies (ART) are available to producers for the use of improving their herds production and optimizing efficiency. Nonetheless, current utilization of ART is less than 50% among cattle producers and even less amongst producers with less than 100 head of cattle. The objective of this study was to investigate what reproductive technologies small beef herd producers in Texas currently use and what affects their decision not to utilize available technologies. A 19-question survey was populated using Qualtrics. A population was asked to complete the survey via a link connected to a QR code. The survey comprised questions regarding producer demographics, herd demographics, use of reproductive technologies, and perception of available pregnancy detection methods. A total of 152 surveys were collected with a final of 122 being evaluated. Survey answers were recorded in Qualtrics. Means and frequencies of responses were calculated for each question. The usage of ART within herds, including currently implemented breeding technologies, pregnancy detection methods, and factors affecting the decision to use technologies was investigated. Of producers surveyed, 66.3% do not utilize any form of breeding technologies within their herd and instead rely on natural cover of the bull. For pregnancy detection methods, 44.35% utilize palpation while 34.68% use no form of detection. There was a numerically similar distribution of reasons for not utilizing available technologies with time (12.10%), money (8.87%), and the combination of the two (11.29%), standing above other reasons such as access to technology and information available. The results of this investigation will be utilized to implement a series of workshops available to producers. The goal of these workshops is to create an opportunity for producers to continue their education and establish a working relationship with Tarleton State University.