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Abstract
The selection of herd bulls is
important in determining
profitability of commercial ranchers
and cow-calf operators as well as
purebred producers. In this
research, the key attributes of bulls –
based on visual, performance, and
ultrasound data – are valued using a
traditional hedonic pricing model.
The data are collected from the
annual bull test trial and sale at
Southern Illinois University
Carbondale. The results suggest
that buyers at the SIUC Beef
Evaluation Station are willing to pay
more for bull characteristics
associated with calving ease and
weaning weights. For instance bulls
with a combination of both lower
birth weight Expected Progeny
Differences (EPDs) and high
yearling weight EPDs than average
can command premiums of over
$1,150 per head or 67 percent above
the average sale price. Farm
managers can use this information in
the selection of herd bulls while
purebred operators can attempt to
select for the most valuable traits.