SPRINGVILLE— As the spring breeding season approaches, the Lawrence County Cattlemen’s Association is urging local producers to prioritize a frequently overlooked management step: the Bull Breeding Soundness Evaluation (BSE).
In partnership with the Springville Feeder Auction, the Association will host a diagnostic clinic on Friday, March 20, 2026, beginning at 9:00 a.m. at the Feeder Auction facility.
With calf prices currently sitting at historic highs, the cost of an “open” cow—one that fails to conceive—is a significant financial hit to any operation. While a single bull is typically expected to settle between 20 and 50 cows per season, experts warn that their ability to do so should never be taken for granted.
- Failure Rates: Statistics show that approximately 10% of bulls will fail a standard Breeding Soundness Evaluation.
- Predictive Power: While a BSE cannot guarantee 100% fertility, it remains the most reliable method for identifying sub-fertile bulls before they cost a producer an entire calving season.
The evaluation is open to all area cattle producers. To participate, bulls must meet the following criteria:
- Age: At least one year old.
- Weight: Minimum of 900 pounds.
Cost: The evaluation fee is $50 per bull.
In addition to the standard exam, producers can access several supplemental health management services on-site for an additional cost, including:
- Vaccinations
- Fly tags
- Deworming treatments
How to Register
To ensure an orderly flow and secure an appointment time, the Lawrence County Cattlemen’s Association requires an RSVP.
Deadline: Monday, March 16, 2026, by 4:30 p.m. To RSVP: Call the Purdue Extension – Lawrence County office at 812-275-4623.
Don’t wait until next year’s calving season to discover a problem that can be identified today. Securing an evaluation now is a small investment that protects your herd’s productivity for the year ahead.
