Benchmarks: Heifer Mgmt

Question 1

What is the goal for mortality (%) rate

Answer 1

<5%

Question 2

What is the goal for weaning age

Answer 2

Brown Swiss & Holstein: 6-8 wks

Ayrshire & Guernsey, Jersey: 4-6 wks

Question 3

What is the goal for Average daily gain (lbs./day)

Answer 3

Brown Swiss & Holstein: 1.6-1.8
Ayrshire & Guernsey: 1.4-1.6
Jersey: 1.2-1.4

Question 4

What is the goal for Maximum prepubertal ADG

lbs./day

Answer 4

Brown Swiss & Holstein: 1.8
Ayrshire & Guernsey: 1.6
Jersey: 1.4

Question 5

What is the goal for Average age at first breeding

months

Answer 5

Brown Swiss & Holstein: 14
Ayrshire & Guernsey: 14
Jersey: 12

Question 6

What is the goal for Weight at first breeding (lbs.)

Answer 6

Brown Swiss & Holstein: 750-800
Ayrshire & Guernsey: 650
Jersey: 550

Question 7

What is the goal for Wither height at first breeding (inches)

Answer 7

Brown Swiss & Holstein: 50
Ayrshire & Guernsey: 46
Jersey: 43

Question 8

What is the goal for Services per conception

Answer 8

1.5 - 1.8

Question 9

What is the goal for Age at first calving (months)

Answer 9

22-24

Question 10

What is the goal for Postcalving weight (lbs.)

Answer 10

Brown Swiss & Holstein: 1250
Ayrshire & Guernsey: 1000
Jersey: 800

Question 11

What is the goal for Peak milk production (lbs./day)

Answer 11

Brown Swiss & Holstein: 75-80
Ayrshire & Guernsey: 60
Jersey: 55

Question 12

What is the breeding age for heifers

Answer 12

13-14 months

Question 13

What should the DMI lb should be?

Answer 13

19-20 lb DM

Question 14

What should the % of the 
CP
ADF
TDN
RUP

Answer 14

CP: 13-14 %DM
ADF: 32% DM
TDN: 65% DM
RUP: 20% of CP