Evaluation of Implants, Clover, and Fescue Variety on Stocker Steers

Sixty-four growing steers were used in a split-plot experiment, where the whole plot was pasture, and implants. Whole treatment 4 × 2 facto­rial with four levels of fescue (High Endophyte, Low Novel, or Endophyte Free) two legume (Legumes No Legumes). The included implant (No Implant, Synovex One Grass, Revalor-G, Ralgro). Data collected weights, hair coat scores, length, rectal temperature (every 28 days), ultrasound carcass characteristics coming off grass. Steers on High had lowest average daily gain (ADG), longest hair, highest as compared to all other types. differentiation observed beginning at day 56 through end study. Overall, ADG not impacted by addition nor type. that implanted longer length throughout many measurement dates. grazing pastures legumes tended have higher ultrasound-measured marbling score less muscle depth. This study found best management strategy for toxicity is use non-endophyte non-toxic varieties pasture. Contrary previous research, implants this project showed no improvement cattle gains.