The changing impact of economics on managing bovine respiratory disease complex in feedlot cattle

Authors

  • J. Shannon Neibergs Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843
  • David P. Anderson Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.21423/aabppro20153558

Keywords:

bovine, cattle, BRD, economics, genomics

Abstract

The cattle market has set year-over-year record high prices since 2009. The increasing value of cattle has substantially increased the financial risk of feeding cattle, and has commensurately increased the economic losses from disease. As cattle feeding profitability continues to be challenged by the low margin between selling prices and operating costs, all facets of cattle feeding are being evaluated to improve efficiency. Better disease management is an area where economic efficiencies can be gained. Bovine respiratory disease complex (BRDC) is widely cited as the most costly disease of beef cattle in North America. Management tools and efforts need to be reexamined, and new tools developed, to reduce BRDC economic losses. This paper reviews cattle feeding financial risk and recent economic implications from the Integrated Program for Reducing Bovine Respiratory Disease Complex in Beef and Dairy Cattle Coordinated Agricultural Project.

Author Biographies

J. Shannon Neibergs, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843

Professor and Extension Economist

David P. Anderson, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164

Associate Professor, Extension Economist, and Director of Extension Western Center for Risk Management Education

Cover image of the 48th Conference Proceedings: An image of Dr. Fred Gingrich II dressed in a red shirt and overalls and standing in front of dairy cows in a barn interior. Yellow background.

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Published

2015-09-17

Issue

2015

Section

Bovine Respiratory Disease Session