By Andi Anderson
The Iowa Beef Center (IBC) has made its well-known estrus synchronization planner even more accessible by releasing a new online version of the tool, available for use on computers, phones, and tablets.
Originally developed by the Beef Reproduction Task Force, the planner was once a paid resource but has been offered free of charge through the Iowa Beef Center website since 2011. The tool has gained significant popularity, with more than 1,860 downloads in 2025 alone.
Garland Dahlke, IBC research scientist and member of the Beef Reproduction Task Force, created and maintains the spreadsheets behind the planner. He recently developed the new online version to make it even easier for cattle producers to plan and monitor breeding programs.
“This version can be used on a computer, phone, or other device directly from the site,” Dahlke explained. “Inputs are the same as the previous versions, and both screen and calendar printouts are possible.”
The estrus synchronization planner helps beef producers organize and manage their breeding and calving schedules, allowing them to coordinate multiple groups of cows and optimize reproductive efficiency. This makes it a valuable resource for improving herd productivity and planning across diverse operations.
The Beef Reproduction Task Force, established in 2000, includes a multidisciplinary group of research and extension experts from universities across the United States. The group focuses on advancing reproductive management and technologies to support beef producers in making informed, data-driven decisions.
Producers can access the new online planner directly through the Iowa Beef Center website and explore the updated tools designed to fit modern farm management needs.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-baranozdemir
Categories: Iowa, Livestock, Beef Cattle