364 Comparison of Semi-Confined and Pasture-Based Fall Calving Beef cow Systems

Abstract Conversion of perennial grasslands to crop land in U.S. Northern Plains has resulted a need evaluate alternative management strategies for cow-calf production. A 3-yr study was conducted compare beef cow/calf performance two different August-calving cow systems. Multiparous cows (n = 318) were allocated 8 replicates, and replicate randomly assigned drylot (DL) or pasture (PAST) treatments. From mid-gestation (March/April) until breeding (October), DL limit-fed meet requirements PAST grazed pasture. Feed resource during the 47-d period (November/December) varied by year treatment. However, pregnancy rates did not differ (P=0.72) between treatments within year. Both went corn residue at time weaning (late January) 37 d. treatment × interaction (P<0.01) observed BW, BCS, calf BW. In Year 1, BCS pre-calving, breeding, less (5.3) than (6.2; 1 9 scale). Weaning weights (P<0.05) (178 kg) (183 calves. 2, (6.1) (6.7) pre-calving but (P=0.12) weaning. At BW (212 greater (201 kg). Like 3 had decreased compared with (7.3 vs. 7.7). (6.8) (P=0.98). 3, (7.1) (5.9) (P=0.17). Cow are sacrificed semi-confined systems reasonable traditional