Gain & Performance Research Summary
These research highlights, funded by Iowa cattle producers through the Iowa State Beef Checkoff, showcase practical strategies to improve feed efficiency, carcass quality and cattle performance. This handout summarizes key trial findings to help producers make informed, data-driven decisions.
Feedlot Housing System
2024
Dr. Galen Erickson
University of Nebraska
Evaluation of housing system impacts on feedlot performance, carcass characteristics, and nutrient management strategies.
High-moisture corn in finishing diets
2024
Dr. Zach Smith
South Dakota State University
Investigation of the use of high-moisture ear corn as a roughage source in finishing diets and its effects on beef steer performance.
Growth Promotants & Environmental Impact
2024
Dr. Stephanie Hansen
Iowa State University
Strategies to optimize beef production: minimizing nitrogen excretion and maximizing cattle growth using growth-promoting technologies.
Grazing Corn Residue
2023
Dr. Mary Drewnoski
University of Nebraska
Evaluation of chopped corn residue at grain harvest and its impact on cattle performance during residue grazing.
Injectible Vitamin C
2019
Dr. Stephanie Hansen
Iowa State University
Investigation of injectable vitamin C administration prior to transit and transit duration effects on feedlot performance and muscle oxidative stress markers in beef cattle.
Feeding High Quality Beef
2019
Erika Lundy-Woolfolk
Iowa Beef Center
Assessment of growth and carcass performance in genetically predisposed high marbling steers under two nutritional and implant strategies: conservative versus aggressive.
Feeding High Quality Beef
2018
Erika Lundy-Woolfolk
Iowa Beef Center
Assessing the growth and carcass performance of steers with high marbling potential fed different nutritional and implant regimens.
Injectible Vitamin C
2018
Dr. Stephanie Hansen
Iowa State University
Exploring the impact of injectable vitamin C administration pre- and post-transit on feedlot performance, inflammation, and oxidative stress in beef steers.
Backgrounding Cattle Nutrition
2018
Dr. Alfredo DiConstanzo
University of Minnesota
Evaluation of the impact of backgrounding nutrition on feedlot performance, carcass traits, beef quality, and sensory attributes.
More Research Results:
Carcass Quality
Highlights actionable strategies to enhance feedlot profitability and beef quality, helping producers align performance with growing consumer demand for premium beef.
Herd Health
Highlights practical insights to improve cattle well-being, performance and profitability—supporting informed decision-making across all sectors of the cattle industry.
Beef x Dairy
Highlights research insights that help producers improve management practices, optimize calf performance and meet market demand for high-quality beef from dairy-influenced genetics.