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| Improving beef genetics and beef quality through the technology of live carcass ultrasound |
| The Benefits |
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UltraBeef Ultrasound Services strives to bring you top quality carcass ultrasound images, while improving beef quality and genetics throughout various breeds of cattle in Manitoba and Canada. Carcass EPDs are becoming common in this era when more economically important traits are being added to national cattle evaluation programs. Traditionally, carcass traits were evaluated solely using progeny tests. One limitation to progeny testing is, of course, cost. Also, for bulls to be evaluated in such a program, he must produce progeny on which carcass data are collected. This is a process that typically requires about two years beginning at the point when a bull is, at a minimum of 13 to 15 months of age. Bulls are typically at least 3 to 4 years of age before carcass data are available from his progeny that can be used for national cattle evaluation. A more efficient method would provide carcass EPD on bulls at younger ages. Ultrasound offers the opportunity to enhance carcass
EPDs so that effective selection and marketing decisions can be
made with regard to improving carcass merit. Several breeds have
already begun building carcass and ultrasound databases and plan
to implement national or even North American carcass evaluation
programs. It is important for breeders to understand the benefits
of ultrasound data and national cattle evaluation for carcass traits.
Producers are encouraged to contact their respective breed associations
or beef improvement groups for more information. The Measurements You Receive:
Article: Scanning Our Way into the Future - by Shari Beamish Article: Live Carcass Ultrasound - The Preparation & The Payoff - by Shari Beamish
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| The Procedure |
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| The Technician | |
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My enthusiasm for the agriculture
industry started at a young age. In 1995, my family slowly diversified
from grain farming to a mixed grain and commercial cattle operation.
We started with Red and Black Angus cross cows and use Black Angus
bulls for breeding. Shortly after, I started my own commercial herd
consisting of Black Angus cows with Chianina and Simmental influence.
In 2000, I started my own small purebred Black Angus herd, purchasing
heifers from Swindon Ranch.
With a start in the local 4-H beef club, I soon became involved in showing beef cattle, acquiring judging skills, and of course learning more about the agriculture industry. When I started my purebred herd, I joined the Manitoba Junior Angus Association where I took part on the board and participated in as many shows and junior functions as possible. In 2005, I received my diploma in Agribusiness from Lakeland College. The same year I participated in The National CUP Lab and Technology Center (Walter and Associates, LLC) carcass ultrasound training, purchased the equipment in the summer and gained my certification in Georgia that fall. I am frequently asked how my interest for the carcass ultrasound business came about. My awareness for this industry started in 4-H with one of my favorite competitions being our club's carcass class. My family and I were always eager to see how our steer's carcasses turned out. This interest continued in college throughout courses where we learned specifically about the North American grading systems and the details of feeding beef cattle. I constantly strive for superior image quality and enjoy educating
and assisting producers with this ever-growing and advancing technology.
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Shari Beamish Certified UGC/CUP Technician Rivers, Manitoba, Canada Cell: 204.764.0218 | Phone: 204.328.7404 E-mail: shari@ultrabeef.ca |
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