Theses and Dissertations

Advisor

Karisch, Brandi B.

Committee Member

Smith, Trent

Committee Member

Bratcher, Christy

Committee Member

Swortzel, Kirk A.

Date of Degree

8-13-2024

Original embargo terms

Immediate Worldwide Access

Document Type

Graduate Thesis - Open Access

Major

Agriculture (Animal Science)

Degree Name

Master of Science (M.S.)

College

College of Agriculture and Life Sciences

Department

Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences

Abstract

Crossbred beef heifers [Year 1, n = 12 initial body weight (BW) = 400.5 kg] and beef steers (Year 2, n = 24, initial body weight (BW) = 401.9 kg] were used to compare the effect of non-traditional, low-input finishing diets (CORN and SBH) to a traditional finishing diet (DIET) in a small-scale finishing system on animal performance, carcass characteristics, and economic impact. In Year 1, cattle were finished for 132d (n = 6) or 174d (n = 6) and in Year 2, cattle were finished for 154d (n = 8), 162d (n = 8), and 196d (n = 7) then harvested. No differences were noted on animal BW or G:F; however, dry matter intake (DMI) (P = < 0.0001) and average daily gain (ADG) (P = 0.0053) was greater for DIET compared to CORN and SBH. No differences were noted in total cost of gain, however there were differences on cost per animal (Year 1, P = < 0.0001; Year 2, P = 0.0003). Results indicate CORN and SBH diets could be a viable option to finish beef just as efficiently as a total mixed ration (DIET).

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