Mature weight and height are highly heritable traits, indicating that selection for these traits can be effective. The mature size genetic evaluation is a multi-trait animal model using repeated measures on cows from yearling age throughout their lifetime.

A body condition score (click here for photos) must be included with the cow weight in order for data to be utilized to calculate mature size EPDs in the National Cattle Evaluation. Any cow weights submitted without a body condition score are not used. For more information on body condition score, go to www.cowbcs.info.

As a reminder for weaning time, cow weights with a body condition score need to be taken +/- 45 days of the calf's weaning measure date. Cow hip heights may be captured at this time, also. It is important to collect this information after the cow has weaned her first calf, and then again in subsequent years.

Genomic results for mature weight are additional genetic indicators in the analysis. EPDs are generated for mature weight and mature height based on these varying amounts of performance information and pedigree relationships. The resulting EPDs are representative of the genetics for Angus cow size at a projected six years of age.