Success StoryBull Value Assessment Program
Bull Value Assessment Program
Author: Kevin Bullock
Planning Unit: Animal and Food Sciences
Major Program: Beef
Outcome: Initial Outcome
Bull purchases are the primary means of incorporating improved genetics into a beef herd, however, proper use of available tools is often lacking. The Bull Value Assessment Program (BVAP) was developed as an educational program to assist beef producers in their bull selection decisions. This program consists of two parts, the first being a classroom educational program on proper bull selection techniques and how to manage their bulls once purchased. The second part occurs a week later and is a hands-on experience where the producers buy a virtual bull from a group of 40 bulls to fit a certain management and marketing scenario in a live mock auction. At the conclusion of the auction an in-depth analysis is discussed for each scenario to let farmers know how they did and how they can improve their selection decisions. This program was conducted in four multicounty areas with approximately 40 participants at each location. A post-program survey was conducted to measure the impact of the program. Of the beef producers participating in the survey they rated the educational program 4.8 out of 5.0 for helpfulness in future bull selections and 98% said the program would likely or absolutely help with their next bull purchase. A couple of statements about the program were “It's a very appropriate program that provides different scenarios that makes you think about what to buy” and “This is one of the most beneficial programs we have had”.
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