Live Animal Evaluation
PHILOSOPHY OF LINEAR MEASURING
Brief history:
In 1963 Dr. Jan Bonsma introduced the use of Linear Measurement on cattle to Dr. Burl Winchester of Montana State University. Dr. Winchester incorporated it into his research for the next five years and formulated the standards. He concluded that certain correlations (body measurement comparisons or ratios) were necessary of each type of production model – be it grain or grass. He was so intrigued by the relationship of phenotype to production model that he began teaching it in the classroom.
By this time the EPD (Expected Progeny Difference) system was gaining popularity as an evaluation system for beef genetics and the cattle destined for the feedlot. The Continental cattle breeds entered the scene and were widely used in crossbreeding programs. Education and research funding had an emphasis geared towards supporting the feedlot industry. The administration at Montana State University went to Dr. Winchester and gave him the ultimatum to either quit teaching Linear Measurement or clean out his office and go home.
He worked about 5 more years at the University before retiring. Luckily for us he and four other men formed a consulting group and the research using linear measurement continued. However the desire to out cross and crossbreed to produce what the feedlot wanted was so great that clients would only stay with their program for a couple years. Eventually the use and value of linear measurement faded and disappeared.
Linear measuring was designed to help the producer identify and thus choose the phenotype (physical body) in bulls or cows that would be high in reproduction and carcass yield and low in maintenance. Measuring and comparing specific body parts of the individual animal allows the operator to recognize structural and functional defects, which are genetic and potential problems that will arise from improper breeding practices. Linear measuring teaches the stockman about body form and function.
Linear measuring is not about a gene pool concentration. That comes later. Linear measuring is about enhancing the ability to select animals that have the correct body type for the desired function and performance. The breeding program that will build a concentrated gene pool, fixing the desired traits so that they are consistent and predictable involves the mating of those selected individuals that have a relationship on the paternal side.
Utilizing Linear Measuring protocols allows the operator to choose the correct body type to fit the environment and production system that cattle will be expected to work in. It is also useful for the dairy producer. The cows and bulls he/she creates from linear measuring will perform on those pastures, be high in reproduction and low in maintenance.
Building herds of cows and bulls with the proper form and type sets the stage for healthy, calving ease cows that have longevity. Mastering the technique and understanding the relationships teaches you about the differences in body type and the effects they have on function and performance of the animal. I have done this for so long now that I can picture, in my mind, what a cow looks like just by seeing her LM numbers.
Enjoy this study and allow our Creator to bless you in all areas of your life and livestock. We have not because we ask not (James 4:2).
Have someone you trust view what you are creating. Four eyes with wisdom are better than two.
Linear Measuring Guidelines & Correlations:
Linear Measurement:
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