Miller worked with Braden to create the computerized system, and soon he hired her to work at the ranch full-time. Otherwise, ranchers only know what calves weigh as they're shipped. They don't know whether the animals thrive at the feedlot or what the slaughter grades and yields are. As calves are branded, tagged and vaccinated, Miller enters data on her laptop computer. Growth and performance records are added to the database in the fall when the animals are moved to feedlots.
Final data is entered when the animals are slaughtered.
This system allows ranchers, feedlot operators and packing plants to compare notes and breed cattle for niche markets. Currently, Miller is exploring possibilities to market northern New Mexico beef to retail outlets statewide. She and a team of other students developed a one-year plan to market Texas Longhorn beef at restaurants. Miller conducted most of the market research while other team members designed promotions. The students were paid as consultants and the plan is being implemented by the Cattlemen's Texas Longhorn Registry.