The objective of this Montana State Univ. study was to evaluate the impact of selection for high marbling or high retail product yield on reproduction traits and calf performance of first-calf heifers in a herd of western range cattle. Over a period of 3 years, mature Angus cows were AI’ed to Angus bulls with high marbling (MB) or high retail product (RP) EPDs.

The following data were analyzed on 133 MB and 121 RP first-calf heifers and 156 calves: 1) total pregnancy (AI and natural service) of heifers as yearlings; 2) rebreeding pregnancy rate of 2-yr-old dams; 3) prebreeding cow body weight; and 4) weaning weight of first calves. There were no significant differences between the two groups of heifers in any of these parameters. The authors concluded that selection for lean meat yield or higher quality grade should not have a negative effect on reproduction of replacement females (Davis et al. 2005. Proc. Western Section ASAS. 56: 102).