Reducing the age at first calving on beef farms

This practice abstract describes how reducing the age at first calving in beef heifers can contribute to lower greenhouse gas emissions and improved farm efficiency.

Earlier calving reduces the number of non-productive animals on the farm, decreasing enteric methane emissions and freeing resources that can improve forage availability, particularly under drought conditions.

Successful implementation requires adequate nutrition of young animals, regular monitoring of growth to achieve breeding targets, effective heat detection and reproductive management. Farm experiences show that reducing the age at first calving from 36 to 30 months can improve environmental performance and resource use efficiency in beef production systems.