- regmgr
- Sep 17
- 1 min read
Summary of Test Conditions and Observations
The bucks consigned to the NDSU Buck Test experienced several factors that may have influenced average daily gain and overall performance metrics. Upon commencement of the trial, animals exhibited limited adaptation to group housing and the initial feed ration. After 28 days, performance evaluations indicated that the original ration was not meeting desired performance parameters. As a result, the ration was changed, introducing an additional transition period for the test group.
Adaptation issues were also observed with the feed efficiency bunk system. A portion of the test group did not acclimate to this feeding method, necessitating the discontinuation of the feed efficiency measurement component. These conditions may have contributed to variability and reduced performance in certain individuals.
Acknowledgements and Future Recommendations
The American Boer Goat Association acknowledges and appreciates NDSU’s role in hosting the test and providing technical guidance. Based on the observations from this trial, modifications to management and feeding protocols will be implemented in future tests to minimize adaptation challenges and optimize conditions for evaluating genetic performance potential. The ABGA also wants to thank each of the producers who consigned a buck to the test and congratulate those producers who had high performing animals.
Click here to view all 2025 Dakota Meat Goat Buck Test results and info.
