You might have heard of SPA, or the Standardized Performance Analysis, in some of your cattle industry reading material, or perhaps you’ve seen it in the Management section of the CattleMax software.
Either way, you’re probably still wondering what it is, and why it might be important to you.
What is SPA?
It is a herd analysis system that compares your herd’s performance with other cow-calf operations on a regional, state and national level. The production measures used in SPA include pounds weaned per exposed cow and per acre. Then, the financial analysis can assist in identifying expenses and finding ways to improve your bottom line.
Why is SPA helpful?
- You can then share the information with your local County Extension Agent, state extension service or other professionals who can help you analyze the information to determine key areas where you can improve management.
- SPA provides a way for you to take the data you have collected and transfer it into meaningful information that will help you make management decisions that affect profitability and long-term herd performance.
- You can better determine which cows you should cull before the next breeding season, the most profitable sire in your herd and females that have the most promise to be kept as replacements.
How can you participate in SPA?
First, you must maintain distinct breeding seasons in your herd. Then, you have to keep detailed cattle records which should include, but are not limited to:
- Individual identification
- Breeding information
- Palpation results
- Calving records
- Birth and weaning weights
For information on SPA, check the NCBA’s SPA web page, and with your local beef cattle extension service to see what workshops and help might be provided for you there.
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