Over the past 12 months, domestic and export demand for Australian beef genetics has risen substantially, with Australia selling up to 50 per cent more beef semen at a higher price than we were just a few years ago.
This increase in demand has re-iterated how beneficial artificial insemination is to the cattle industry, as well as the importance of protecting assets as valuable as livestock.
So, what is artificial insemination and how big of a role does it play in the Australian cattle industry?
What Is Artificial Insemination in Beef Cattle?
Artificial insemination (AI) involves placing semen directly into a cow’s uterus. This breeding technique can be utilised in both stud and commercial herds but is also suitable for breeding stud stock.
What are the Advantages of Using Artificial Insemination in Beef Cattle?
There are countless reasons more and more Australian farmers are starting to turn to artificial insemination when breeding beef cattle, including:
- Improving the genetic makeup of cattle
- Accessing genetics from across the globe
- Providing access to prized bulls that many farmers wouldn’t have been able to purchase if relying on traditional forms of conception
- Bulls are able to artificially inseminate more females in one season than they would be able to when following traditional practices
- Reducing the risk of infection from venereal diseases
Thanks to the above, commercial cattleman are able to take advantage of increased weaning weights (due to females conceiving earlier in the season), improved post-weaning performance, enhanced carcass value, and more productive replacement heifers. Plus, breeders can expect to experience a more compact breeding pattern and a more even line of calves.
The Cost of Implementing Artificial Insemination
In the past, Australian cattle farmers have been hesitant to implement artificial breeding due to the high costs associated with this practice.
For instance, there are significant costs associated with labour, availability and skilled individuals to adequately manage an artificial insemination scheme. Developing suitable handling facilities, the cost of semen and the required drugs to effectively impregnate healthy females are also contributing factors.
Generally speaking, these costs need to be weighed against potential savings related to less need to purchase and care for bulls throughout the year, as well as the potential increase in income due to heavier calves at weaning thanks to more calves being born earlier in the calving period and an increased value of calves coming from sought-after sires.
The Importance of Insuring Your Investment
Taking all of the above into consideration, including both the significant costs of investing and implementing a successful artificial insemination program, as well as protecting your potential earning ability from said cattle, finding the right insurance policy for your cattle and insemination facilities is a must.
Due to the specialised nature of livestock breeding, your safest bet is to enlist the assistance of an experienced farm insurance broker, such as AIA Insurance Agencies. We take great pride in our ability to provide tailored advice regarding stud and livestock insurance, ensuring you’re financially protected for your greatest assets.
If you’re looking for an insurance professional to assist you with finding the perfect stud and livestock insurance, contact the team at AIA today!