Carl went with Jimmy on Tuesday to get a new bull for the farm. Jimmy and Regina had been considering a number of bulls, examining EPDs (Expected Progeny Differentials) to evaluate which may make the best addition to their herd. In the analysis, they also needed to consider how close a relation the new bull may be with their current bull, since they raise their own replacement animals (some of the cows that will be in the herd are daughters of the current bull). They had analyzed all the factors and came up with a bull that they think will be an asset to their herd.
The bull was from Knoll Crest Farm (https://knollcrestfarm.com/about-us) on (appropriately named) Bull Hill Road in Concord, VA -- a drive of 2-2.5 hours.
Some of Carl's pictures from the day:
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| Arriving... |
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The new bull (currently being called "Bennett") ready to load.
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In his new location
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It looks like he is posing!
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He seemed to settle in well!
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The new bull was a matter of curiosity to the cows in the neighboring pasture. He will get to start "doing his assigned job" in the next few weeks with about half of the herd. Even with all of the data that is provided (EPDs, pedigree, etc.), the proof won't be known until about 3 years from now, when his progeny are ready to go to the processor. I'm glad I'm not having to make that kind of analysis and those kinds of decisions - and I'm impressed with the work that goes into it done by Jimmy and Regina.
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