Expanding My Breeding Toolbox: Seeking Tips on Artificial Insemination & Breeding Plans

Hello fellow ranchers,

I’m excited to share some updates about my herd and get your valuable insights as I venture into new territory. For years, my focus has been on embryo transplant programs with my registered Angus cattle, a system that has served me well by enhancing the genetics in my herd. As my operation evolves—with a shrinking recipient herd and an expanding registered herd—I’m looking to increase the use of artificial insemination (AI). My goal is twofold: to make the most of the genetic investments I’ve made through embryo purchases and to incorporate top sires into my breeding plan.

Why AI?

Embryo transplant has been a fantastic tool for boosting the quality of my herd, but as I refine my production goals, I see AI as a complementary method that can help:

• Diversify Genetics: AI opens up access to a broader pool of elite sires, which can introduce desirable traits and enhance overall herd performance.
• Optimize Reproductive Efficiency: Learning AI techniques could offer better control over breeding timing and management.
• Strengthen My Breeding Plan: Incorporating AI can be a strategic move to balance my breeding program, ensuring that both embryo transfers and traditional AI work together to produce the best outcomes.

Heading to an AI Class

I’m about to attend an artificial insemination class, and I’m eager to learn everything—from the technical aspects of the procedure to managing estrus detection and timing. While I’m excited about what this class will offer, I also know that the real-world, on-the-ground experience you all have is invaluable.

Calling All Ranchers: Your Tips & Advice Needed!

I’d love to hear from anyone who has integrated AI into their herd. Here are a few specific questions I have:

• Getting Started: For those new to AI, what were the initial challenges you encountered, and how did you overcome them?
• Technique & Training: What tips do you have for mastering the AI technique? Are there particular practices or protocols that made a big difference for your herd?
• Breeding Plan Integration: How have you balanced the use of AI with other breeding methods? What strategies or schedules have proven most effective in integrating top sires and maintaining genetic diversity?
• Management & Timing: Any advice on monitoring estrus and ensuring optimal insemination timing? What management practices do you recommend to maximize success rates?
• General Wisdom: Whether it’s choosing the right semen vendor or tailoring nutrition for reproductive health, I’d appreciate any insights that could help me improve both my AI practice and overall breeding strategy.

Looking Forward

I believe that combining the proven success of embryo transfers with the flexibility of AI will provide a robust breeding strategy for the future. I’m very much looking forward to learning from the upcoming class and, more importantly, from all of you who have walked this path before.

Please share your experiences, tips, and any advice that could help a fellow rancher navigate this new chapter. Let’s work together to push the boundaries of our herd’s potential while upholding the quality that registered Angus cattle represent.

Thank you in advance for your support and shared wisdom. Happy breeding!

— Cody Deluisio