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6 research projects found

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IN PROGRESS

Measuring feed efficiency for cows on pasture

The objective of this study is to determine the relationship of traditional feed efficiency measures to apparent total tract digestibility (TTD) and determine if TTD can be used to predict cow efficiency.

Started: 2024

Feed Efficiency

COMPLETED

How does weather affect feed efficiency?

There are physiological and behavioural differences between efficient and less efficient animals in the face of extreme weather conditions, both hot and cold.

Completed: 2023

Environment Feed Efficiency

COMPLETED

Improving feed efficiency on pasture

Previous research has demonstrated that 56-71% of the total cost of cow-calf production can be attributed to feed, bedding and pasture. In addition, feed energy for cow maintenance represents 60-75% of total feed energy requirements.

Completed: 2014

Feed Efficiency

COMPLETED

Impact of rumen microbes on feed efficiency

This project aimed to identify factors associated with enhanced feed efficiency in feedlot cattle, focusing specifically on the microbial populations in the rumen and any effects of host-microbe interactions on feed efficiency. The association between feed efficiency and acidosis was also investigated.

Completed: 2012

Feed Efficiency Genetics and Breeding

COMPLETED

Effects of the Galanin Gene on ADG and fat deposition

The objective of this study was to determine the effect of a mutation in the galanin gene on average daily gain and fat deposition in cattle during backgrounding and finishing, as well as any effects on carcass fat traits.

Completed: 2011

Feed Efficiency Genetics and Breeding

COMPLETED

Identifying efficient cattle using infrared technology

This project examined the relationship between infrared thermographic images (IRT) and residual feed intake (RFI) in cows and feedlot cattle to determine whether IRT could be used as a lower cost method to identify and rank animals with improved feed efficiency.

Completed: 2010

Feed Efficiency Genetics and Breeding

Showing 1-6 of 6

Alberta AgriSystems Living Lab

ABP is pleased to be leading a project that will benefit Alberta’s beef, forage, and cropping sectors through collaboration, innovation, and research.

In July 2022, The Honourable Marie-Claude Bibeau, Then Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, announced the expansion of Agricultural Climate Solutions – Living Labs program, including an initiative led by ABP.

Producer participants (beef, forage, cropping) in the AALL are working directly with researchers to co-develop beneficial management practices (BMPs) to improve productivity, profitability while having a positive impact on carbon sequestration and greenhouse gas emissions.

Information from this project will help to ensure that climate focused policy solutions are practical and provide benefits for producers by providing data from real-world situations.

Key focus areas for BMP development include cropping systems and crop rotations, land use change/transitions, grazing management, livestock feeding, nutrient management, and optimizing carbon storage.
AALL is examining barriers and incentives to adoption, performing cost of production analyses, developing extension materials/events, facilitating peer to peer networking, learning and mentorship opportunities, and creating decision-making tools for producers.

Learn More - Visit agrisystemsll.ca

There’s lots of opportunity for producers if they’ve been thinking about trying something but are not sure where to start. That’s where our researchers and their expertise can really fine-tune that and set them up for success right out of the gate.

Karin Schmid, Beef Production and Extension Lead, Alberta Beef Producers

National Research Strategy

The Five-Year Canadian Beef Research and Technology Transfer Strategy aims to enhance national coordination of beef research priorities, funding, and technology transfer efforts. It focuses on increasing productivity, reducing production costs, and promoting sustainable practices to support industry competitiveness. The strategy also emphasizes improving beef quality and safety, while fostering innovation and environmental stewardship.

National Research Strategy

Beef Cattle Research Council

The Beef Cattle Research Council (BCRC) is Canada’s national industry-led funding agency for beef, cattle and forage research. The BCRC’s mandate is to determine research and development priorities for the Canadian beef cattle industry and to administer Canadian Beef Cattle Check-Off funds allocated to research.

The BCRC hosts an incredible resource library, including free interactive calculators, and the latest in production research.

Visit the BCRC

Agriculture Funding Consortium

Alberta Beef Producers participates in the Agriculture Funding Consortium (AFC), which is a collaborative body of agricultural organizations. AFC provides coordinated funding for research and innovation in Western Canada’s agriculture and food industry. It aims to support sustainability, diversification, and long-term growth by stimulating private and public sector participation. Each member organization within the AFC establishes its own research priorities and investment mandates.

Agriculture Funding Consortium

Research

ABP's Research Committee encourages practical, applied research - enhancing the competitiveness of Alberta beef producers.

Measuring feed efficiency for cows on pasture

How does weather affect feed efficiency?

Improving feed efficiency on pasture

Impact of rumen microbes on feed efficiency

Effects of the Galanin Gene on ADG and fat deposition

Identifying efficient cattle using infrared technology

Alberta AgriSystems Living Lab

National Research Strategy

Beef Cattle Research Council

Agriculture Funding Consortium