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Some Economic Aspects Of Beef Crossbreeding In Utah, William L. Beaty

All Graduate Theses and Dissertations, Spring 1920 to Summer 2023

The purpose of this study was to determine empirically if crossbreeding offers a more profitable alternative to Utah cattlemen than straightbreeding. Ranchers practicing breed crossing were interviewed to determine the relative merits of crossbreeding and straightbreeding in the categories of calf crop, weaning weight, sale price, and minor economic factors under ranch conditions. Crossbred and straightbred sale prices were analyzed utilizing the records of the Smithfield Livestock Auction.

Analysis of rancher interview data indicated that crossbred animals exceeded straightbreds in weaning weight and sale price. Crossbreds were further credited with lowering herd disease levels. No generalizations from comparative calf crop …