Crossbreeding, castration, dehorning and weaning weights all become insignificant if only 50 percent of the cows wean a calf.
Marked variations exist in the percent calf crop among Georgia beef cattle herds.
This variation in calf crop is the difference between profit and loss. A producer must average over an 80 percent calf crop in order to meet production expenses. Many beef cattle producers are paying for the privilege of being in the cattle business. With a little increase in the level of management coupled with a willingness to change, most producers could improve potential for profit. Improved herd management and selection for reproductive performance can substantially increase the percent calf crop.