Join the Excitement: North Dakota Angus University’s June Feed-Out Program Kicks Off!

Cattle producers in North Dakota have a special chance to see how their Angus-sired cattle perform in a feedlot this summer and fall. The North Dakota State University’s Carrington Research Extension Center (CREC), along with the North Dakota Angus Association (NDAA), is hosting the North Dakota Angus University Feed-out program for the 14th year.

“Feed-out programs like this one are a fantastic way for ranchers to compare their calves’ performance to others,” says Karl Hoppe, a livestock systems specialist at CREC. This hands-on experience can help producers make informed decisions for their herds.

Ranchers interested in participating can consign steers to the program. To qualify, the steers must have at least 50% Angus genetics and weigh between 800 and 1,100 pounds when delivered between June 2-6, 2025. Costs associated with feeding and veterinary care are managed by CREC until the cattle are sold. At the end of the process, expenses are deducted from the sale price without any interest charges.

Participants will receive regular updates on their calves’ performance, including a final report that covers efficiency and carcass traits. Last year, the program measured impressive results: steers gained an average of 4.14 pounds per day during a 133-day feeding study. At harvest, the average live weight was 1,484 pounds, and the carcass weighed about 932 pounds. Notably, 97% of the cattle graded as USDA Choice or higher, with 51% meeting Certified Angus Beef standards and 19% reaching Prime quality grade.

To encourage participation, the NDAA offers $1,500 in prizes for the top three carcasses. This initiative is supported by sponsors like Neogen and LaMoure Feed & Seed.

This program is not just beneficial for the ranchers; it also plays a crucial role in improving the overall quality of beef in the market. Furthermore, industry experts emphasize that tracking cattle performance through such programs can help in breeding better genetics and improving ranch productivity.

If you’re looking to gather more information about the North Dakota Angus University Feed-out program, you can find it here.

For any queries or to consign cattle, ranchers can reach out to Colin Tobin at CREC or directly get in touch with Karl Hoppe from NDSU.

As the beef industry evolves, programs like this highlight the importance of data and performance tracking in promoting high-quality meat production. They ensure that ranchers are well equipped to adapt and thrive in a competitive market.

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