Presentation Title: The influence of trace mineral nutrition on growth enhancing technologies in beef cattle
This presentation will discuss how strategic trace mineral supplementation can influence the effectiveness of growth-enhancing technologies in the feedlot. Drawing on research involving zinc, manganese, and copper, the presentation highlights why “more” is not always better and how more precise mineral nutrition can improve cattle performance, resource utilization, and return on investment.
Dr. Dathan Smerchek is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Animal Science at Iowa State University. His research focuses on feedlot nutrition where he focuses on advancing the sustainability, productivity, and profitability of the beef industry. Dr. Smerchek’s particular expertise in feedlot nutrition centers around the interaction of trace minerals with growth-enhancing technologies. Dr. Smerchek completed his M.S. in Animal Science at South Dakota State University under the guidance of Dr. Zach Smith, focusing on applied animal energetics and steroidal implant strategies. He completed his Ph.D. in Animal Science at Iowa State University under the guidance of Dr. Stephanie L. Hansen, where he investigated how zinc and manganese supplementation influenced steroidal implant-induced growth in feedlot finishing cattle.
