GENETICS: Why The Gelbvieh & Balancer® Edge

Balancer® cattle breed are registered hybrid seedstock with:

• Documented pedigrees and expected progeny differences (EPDs).
• Genetic makeup of 25% to 75% Gelbvieh, with the balance from Angus or Red Angus.

Advantages of Balancer® Cattle

• Growth and Muscle: Combines Gelbvieh’s growth and muscle with Angus carcass quality.
• Hybrid Vigor: Maintains hybrid vigor without a complicated crossbreeding system.
• Versatile Use: Suitable for all aspects of the beef industry, including:

• • Commercial cow/calf operations
  • On-the-rail beef production

These genetics are developed for crossbreeding commercial cattle with maternal strengths resulting in superior growth.

The Gelbvieh & Balancer® Edge: Smart. Reliable. Profitable.

Balancer cattle offer a simple and powerful way to maintain hybrid vigor and a profitable blend of British and Continental genetics without a complicated crossbreeding system. These cattle fit well into all aspects of the beef industry including commercial cow/calf operations and on the rail.

Maternal Influence + Superior Growth: Gelbvieh & Balancer®

Gelbvieh and Balancer cattle offer maternal superiority through increased longevity, added fertility, and more pounds of calf weaned per cow exposed. In addition, Gelbvieh and Balancer females offer a reduced mature cow size, more maternal milk, greater calving ease and reach puberty at an earlier age.

GELBVIEH & BALANCER® CATTLE MAKE THE GRADE

Today, feeders favor buying cattle with genetics that predict performance both in the feedyard and on the rail. To help breeders select for these more favorable animals, the American Gelbvieh Association offers a full suite of EPDs for growth and carcass traits. The industry demands an animal that grades Choice or higher, while posting a Yield Grade 1 or 2 carcass. A combination of marbling and a lean meat yield is often not an easy target to hit. Using Gelbvieh and Balancer genetics can help get you there.

Vision Statement

The AGA strives to:

• Position Gelbvieh and Balancer cattle as the industry benchmark for beef production efficiency.
• Enhance profit opportunities for all stakeholders involved.

ABOUT THE AMERICAN GELBVIEH ASSOCIATION

Founded in 1971, the AGA has grown to nearly 1,000 members and manages a registry of over 1 million animals. 

Commitment to Members

The AGA supports its members by:

• Recording and promoting Gelbvieh, Balancer, and Gelbvieh-influenced cattle.
• Providing programs designed to enhance beef production efficiency.

HISTORY & DEVELOPMENT OF GELBVIEH CATTLE

• Origins: The Gelbvieh breed originated in Bavaria, Germany, in the mid-1800s.
• Systematic Breeding: Focused on performance and productivity.
• Post-WWII Refinement: Rigorous selection programs ensured only the best genetics were bred.

MATERNAL ATTRIBUTES & ROLE IN MODERN CATTLE OPERATIONS

Gelbvieh cattle are known for:

• Maternal Strengths: Fertility, longevity, and calm temperament.
• Profitability: Their traits contribute significantly to profitability across the beef industry.

Today, approximately 45,000 active registered Gelbvieh cows exist in the U.S., with the AGA recognized as the largest Gelbvieh association globally. The integration of Angus genetics in Balancer cattle further enhances their appeal, promoting hybrid vigor in commercial settings.

CONTACT & MEMBERSHIP

The evolution of Gelbvieh cattle underscores their adaptability and the breed’s significance in meeting the beef industry’s changing demands. The American Gelbvieh Association remains dedicated to advancing Gelbvieh & Balancer® genetics, ensuring a profitable future for its members and stakeholders.

Contact Us:

• Phone: 303-465-2333