The Aim For Healthy, Productive & Environmentally Friendly, Southeastern Beef Calves

As part of my PhD research at the University of Florida, I’m working on innovative projects aimed at improving how we raise beef calves, specifically in the southeastern United States. In this region, beef calf producers typically receive a lower price than in other geographic areas because calves have a higher proportion of Bos indicus blood, a breed known for heat tolerance but also for slower growth and relatively poorer meat quality. My research is focused on addressing these challenges by developing management strategies that optimize calf growth, health and environmental sustainability. Here’s a look at what I’m doing to improve the future of beef production in this region.

My research is centered on finding practical management strategies to improve the health and productivity of beef calves, with a particular focus on what benefits farmers. One of the key areas I’m exploring is how we can optimize the digestive system of calves, specifically the rumen, to make their feed more efficient. By focusing on practical, farmer-friendly approaches, my research aims to bring tangible benefits to beef producers, improving both profitability and sustainability in the long term.

Another aspect of my research involves the use of “creep feeding”, a method that allows calves to start eating solid feed while they’re still nursing. This early exposure to feed helps their digestive systems develop faster, setting them up for healthier growth after weaning. By adopting this strategy, farmers could see improvements in the overall growth rate and performance of their calves, helping them compete more effectively in the market.

I’m also looking at what are called “drenching formulations”, which are liquid supplements designed to support calf health during stressful transitions like moving to new environments. These formulations can enhance immune function and hydration, helping calves stay healthier and reducing the risks associated with stress. For farmers, this means fewer health problems and potentially lower treatment costs, leading to better overall performance of their herd.

Finally, I’m investigating new feeding technologies such as novel intake limitersthat control how much cattle eat even under free-choice feeding management situations. This can help farmers ensure their cattle are getting the right amount of nutrients without wasting feed, leading to lower costs and more efficient use of resources.

Each of these strategies can not only improve the productivity of cattle production but also reduce its environmental impact, making the system more sustainable for future generations of farmers. I’m excited to share my findings with the beef community and beyond, as we work together to create a more sustainable and profitable future for beef production.

I would like to express my deepest gratitude to the University of Florida and the North Florida Research and Education Center for their unwavering support throughout my PhD journey. I am particularly thankful to my advisor, Dr. DiLorenzo, whose expertise and guidance have been invaluable in shaping this research focusing on finding answers that could potentially help farmers with their day-to-day tasks and potentiate their business.

Additionally, I extend my sincere thanks to Biozyme and the Foundation for Food & Agriculture Research (FFAR) for the scholarship that has supported me in my studies and professional development. The experiences, insights and development of soft skills I have gained thus far would not have been possible without these institutions and my participation as a FFAR Fellow.

Lastly, I would like to acknowledge my fellow researchers and the industry partners who have contributed to the success of these projects. Their support has not only enhanced my research capabilities but has also inspired me to push boundaries and continue advancing in the field of animal sciences.