
Beef Research Figured Into Computer ModelBy Ben Hardin May
19, 1998Beef producers can now tap into up-to-date research via a new computer model
that helps farmers and ranchers match feed and genetic resources to best meet
market demands. Called DECI, for Decision Evaluator for the Cattle Industry, the
user-friendly model explores "what if" management scenarios. It helps
producers avoid costly mistakes or missed opportunities that otherwise might go
unrecognized. Questions addressed by DECI include: Is the cost of harvested
feeds impeding profitability? Would reducing feed, or breeding cows to calve
earlier or later in a season, make better use of forages available on the farm? As choices involving feed are made, what happens to cow conception rates,
weaning weights and the need for female replacements? As Agricultural Research Servicescientists developed the model and adapted it to personal computers, producers
in the National Cattlemen's Beef
Association (NCBA), consultants and beef extension specialists helped
evaluate its progress. A few weeks ago DECI was combined with SPA, a standard
production analysis that the NCBA uses to evaluate economic performance of
cattle. DECI is designed to evolve with updated research information. The model
could eventually help producers evaluate costs versus returns for producing
cattle to be marketed under a premium pricing system based on qualities such as
meat leanness, rather than carcass weight. A feature story on DECI appears in the May 1998 issue of Agricultural
Research magazine. The article is also on the World Wide Web at http://www.ars.usda.gov/is/AR/archive/may98/deci0598.htm Scientific contact: Thomas G. Jenkins,
Roman L. Hruska U.S. Meat Animal Research
Center, Clay Center, NE 68933; phone (402) 762-4247, fax (402) 762-4155,
e-mail [email protected] U.S. Department of Agriculture | |