186 Effect of Feedlot Finishing Compared with Grass fed Beef Following Bale Grazing and Delayed Feedlot Entry on Steer Performance, Carcass Measurement and net Return

Abstract In a grass-fed system grazing study, yearling crossbred Aberdeen Angus x Red steers (n = 72; 3 reps/8 steers/rep) were assigned to either annual forage (GFANN) or native range (GFNR) system, and compared with NR feedlot control (FLT), in delayed entry program, determine the effect of finishing performance, carcass measurements, systems net return. Data analyzed using MIXED procedure SAS. After 176.0 days, GFANN, GFNR, FLT transitioned free-choice cover crop hay bale feeding (BGRZ) 3.09 kg daily wheatmidd-based supplement (SUP). GFANN GFNR received SUP for 92 d; 69 d before transfer University Wyoming feedlot. Grass-fed harvested at federally inspected abattoirs Green Bay, WI, Ft. Morgan, CO, respectively. BGRZ gain ADG greater than (P 0.075; P 0.072). When costs combined cost, feed cost/unit 0.006). Steer HCW was 26% 34% heavier 0.001), marbling score 32% 38% value 16% 24% 0.001) Net return -$88.25, $62.70, $160.22 FLT, Farming long-haul transportation cost negatively affected