THE VALUE OF PRECONDITIONING PROGRAMS IN BEEF PRODUCTION SYSTEMS

Net returns to feeding were calculated for preconditioning. The added value to cattle feeders, without accounting for death loss, from purchasing preconiditioned calves over calves of unknown origin is $46.83/head and $49.54/head for the CPH and GT calves, respectively. As a result, a feedlot operator could pay $8.50/cwt and $9.00/cwt more per 550 pound CPH and GT feeder calves, respectively, and still maintain the same level of profit.