Value of Calving Distribution Calculator

Each time a cow is not bred during a 21-day heat cycle, it can cost up to 39 lbs of weaning weight (assuming an average daily gain on calves of 1.85 lbs/day). The BCRC Value of Calving Distribution Calculator allows beef cattle producers to see what their current calving distribution is, and what the impact on their revenue would be if they move to the industry target of 60-25-10-5, or a condensed breeding season of three cycles.

Value of Calving Distribution Calculator

Instructions:
Enter your own information into the yellow cells

REMEMBER:
This calculator only considers the increase in revenue from weaning an increased number of heavy calves due to the increased number of calves born in the first and second cycles. Costs incurred to achieve a tighter calving season and value from retaining cows in the herd are not included in the calculator.

Step 1: Your Current Calving Distribution

Enter your current calving distribution for each 21 day cycle.

Step 2: Scenario Comparison

Enter your ideal calving distribution in Scenario 3 (yellow cells). This can be a stepping stone to a provincial benchmark or the industry target.

Scenario 1 Scenario 2 Scenario 3
Calves Born Between: Weaning Weight (lbs.) Your Calving Distribution Industry Target Ideal Distribution
1-21 Days
22-42 Days
43-63 Days
64-84+ Days

Step 3: The Results

See the Results (green cells) comparing the average weaning weight and value from the 3 scenarios of your current calving distribution, the industry target and your ideal distribution.

Scenario 1 Scenario 2 Scenario 3
Your Calving Distribution Industry Target Ideal Distribution
Average Weaning Weight
Total # of Weaned Calves
Value of Weaned Calves
Difference in Total Return Compared to Your Current Calving Distribution
$1,595
$3,256

Your Calculated Weaning Weight by Age Group

Estimated Average Weaning Weight & Total Returns