Our entire cow herd and calf crop have been DNA tested in two of the largest cattle databases:
The returned data enables informed mating decisions - focusing on improved quality and sustainability within our herd. Our team tailors our management strategies to ensure that our cattle perform optimally in various environments.
Our bulls travel alongside their mothers through rugged terrain, which is a true test of their structural integrity. We do not trim feet - cattle that cannot thrive in this environment due to poor foot structure are culled. Calves are never creep fed - we value seeing what each cow can achieve with the natural nutrients provided by the land. Bulls are also slowly developed on high-roughage diets to ensure longevity for our customers.
By using a rigid phenotypic culling criteria on our cows, we create cows and bulls that are balanced in performance and phenotypes. Cows are annually scored for feet and udder quality, along with disposition. Records are kept on spring and fall weights and body condition scores.
Visual appraisal is still how we market cattle - we pride ourselves in cows that balance production and phenotype.
Eco Angus is committed to using industry-leading technology and data generated from all phases of beef production. We maintain genomic-enhanced EPDs on all animals, including the cowherd and sale cattle, for maximum predictability of genetic merit. Eco Angus builds cattle that will work in grazing environments yet still produces cattle that top the current grids. Since 2020 we have collected Angus-sired ID carcass data on over 26,000 individual carcasses. Analysis of this data allows our team to evaluate the profitability of Angus genetics by sire.
Whether it is carcass, feed intake, ultrasound carcass, udder, feet, or mature weight data - Eco Angus is committed to generating the data to create maximum informed EPDs to find the right genetics for the next generation.
We believe that Darwinism is one of the most valuable management tools in our program. In this context, Darwinism refers to the natural selection process where only the most resilient cattle, capable of thriving in the rugged and unforgiving terrain of western Nebraska, are chosen to pass on their genetics. Genomics allow us to identify cattle with performance potential. Phenotypic evaluation by our experienced team helps us pinpoint cattle that are easy-doing, resilient, and eye-appealing. Finally, Darwinism puts these cattle to the test, and aids in selecting the best-performing females to build the next generation.
At Eco Angus, we take immense pride in the relationships we've built with our customers. Your success is our success, and we are dedicated to helping you achieve your goals. We deeply appreciate the trust you've placed in us by choosing our genetics. We will work with you along the way for your breeding needs. Our team is here to support you in every step of building a productive, profitable herd.