Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) Certification Practice Exam

After a cow tests 'open' for the third consecutive year, what is the most economical option for the herd?

1. Retain the cow for future breeding

2. Sell the cow for breeding purposes

3. Give the cow a finishing ration and send her for harvest

4. Continue monitoring her health

The correct answer is: Give the cow a finishing ration and send her for harvest

When a cow tests 'open' for three consecutive years, it indicates that she has not successfully conceived and is unlikely to be a productive member of the breeding herd. This situation raises concerns about the economic viability of retaining the cow for breeding, as maintaining an open cow incurs costs without generating income from calf production. Sending the cow for harvest after providing a finishing ration is the most economical choice. By transitioning her from a breeding role to being harvested for beef, the operation can recover some of its costs associated with her care. This approach prevents further expenses related to feeding, veterinary care, and management without any resulting offspring. Maintaining a cow that is unproductive ties up financial resources that could be better utilized in more productive animals within the herd. Thus, sending her for harvest upon determining her inability to conceive is a practical and financially wise decision in the management of the herd.