Cost and Benefit Analysis of a Preconditioning Feeder Calf Program

Objectives were twofold: Determine key factors influencing preconditioning cost and returns; and determine the premium for age and source verified, preconditioned calves sold at a public livestock market. Data provided by the Samuel Roberts Noble Foundation show preconditioning returns depend significantly on number of days preconditioned, average daily gain, and cost of vaccinations, hay, feed, and mineral. Noble Foundation cooperators received a premium for age and source verified, preconditioned feeder cattle when sold at market. Significant coefficients averaged across five sales conclude that Noble Foundation management practices receive a $2.49/cwt premium when compared to all other cattle sold at market.