management

Interactive Effects of Body Weight and Body Condition Score on Enteric Methane Emissions in Grazing Beef Cows

Author

• • Carlee M. Salisbury
  • Kansas State University

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate how body weight and body condition score, both independently and interactively, influence enteric methane production and emission efficiency in beef cows during spring grazing.

Study Description: This retrospective analysis used data from a supplementation trial with mature, spring-calving beef cows grazing native pasture. Cows were weighed and scored monthly. Methane emissions were measured using GreenFeed systems (AHCS; C-Lock Inc., Rapid City, SD), and supplement intake was recorded with automated feeders. Cows were grouped by changes in body condition score over time.

The Bottom Line: Cows with moderate weight and stable body condition emitted less methane per unit of supplement intake, supporting both environmental and production efficiency goals.

Keywords: methane, body weight, condition

How to Cite: Salisbury, C. M. (2026) “Interactive Effects of Body Weight and Body Condition Score on Enteric Methane Emissions in Grazing Beef Cows”, Kansas Agricultural Experiment Station Research Reports. 12(1).