In 1990 breeders gathered in Manhattan, KS to discuss breed strengths and weaknesses and devise an indepth plan for improvement. The goal of the symposium was to expose Limousin breeders to the ever-changing beef industry. Both Limousin breeders and NALF staff spent two and a half days evaluating ourselves in the mirror as to our current strengths and weaknesses. Producers had the opportunity to learn about different programs and where Limousin genetics fit.
Different markets require different levels of carcass merit.
Niche markets, such as Laura's Lean Beef, require extremely muscular cattle and are best suited to high percentage Limousin cattle. During the program, accomplishments of the Limousin breed's genetic improvement program were documented and a suggested plan for future genetic improvement was proposed. Even more practical selection tools such as visual appraisal were part of the program to remind cattlemen they have to select cattle on a balanced trait scale. If the cattle can't make it to the harvest floor there is not much sense breeding for the best end product. Cattlemen were also treated to a bull pen discussion session in which the speakers amassed in a panel discussion to reflect on the information that was shared the first two days of the program.