In Hewitt’s primarily grass-fed operation, genetics are imperative in achieving high performance outcomes from the most responsible use of natural resources.
With the growing demand for high-claims meat outstripping supply, we understand the need for higher productivity and volume – with genetics playing an important part in achieving this.
Warren Miller, the manager of Hewitt’s breeding program and a 30-year veteran of the elite stud cattle industry, said it boils down to a simple equation: The better performance genetics we have, the more productive the herd, and the quicker we can turn cattle off in a grass-fed and low-input operation.
“The main things we’re looking for with the Angus, Ultra Black and Composite cattle are getting a heavier animal earlier, better fertility, and better meat-eating qualities out of our extensive cow herds,” Warren Miller said.
At Hewitt we take an Intensive, elite approach to our seed stock herd, but at scale, using the latest technology to identify high performers and multiply their influence across the entire seed stock herd. This includes IVF, embryo transfer and AI programs.
Hewitt is now providing that same prospect to other breeders through this catalogue of beef sires. Additionally, we have identified positive traits in breeds such Charolais, Droughtmaster, Simmental and Senepols for composite herds that perform well in select environments.
