Beef cattle industry stakeholder understanding of structural soundness: Opportunities for education

Structural soundness in beef cattle is a key component of animal merit that impacts livestock well-being and profitability. A survey instrument was developed by consulting extension manuals, breed association materials, and a panel of experts. Pilot testing ensured validity. Data collection occurred from August 2024 through January 2025, resulting in 466 unique survey responses across 36 states. The average knowledge test score was 69.65%. Respondents were split 59.01% male (n = 275) and 39.91% female (n = 186), with females demonstrating a significantly higher technical knowledge score (P < 0.01). Individuals ranging from 18 years to 75 + with varied tenure and industry background completed the instrument. Those with greater years of experience scored higher on the knowledge test (P < 0.01). Of respondents identifying as cow-calf producers, those involved in seedstock production scored higher than commercial cow-calf producers (P < 0.01). On average, participants were accurate in identifying front leg, hoof, and pastern defects, whereas questions on hindleg and overall skeletal correctness produced varied responses. Participants estimated their own knowledge of structural correctness on a 0-10 Likert scale. The average self-assigned score was 6.98 (SD = 1.83). A high percentage (67.80%) ranked structural soundness of foremost importance relative to other selection factors; those who ranked it foremost scored higher on the knowledge test (P < 0.01). Still, 84.44% make culling decisions based on structure. In a free-response question, respondents shared their perceptions of the most common causes of cattle soundness issues. The most prevalent responses were genetics (39.54%), structural issues not culled against (24.49%), and industry selection pressures, such as show ring demands and expected progeny differences (EPDs) (11.59%). When asked about the need for further education, 84.55% agreed that a need exists. Results provide evidence that participants find this topic relevant and applicable to their role in the beef cattle industry. These findings identify a gap in beef production stakeholders' knowledge. Efforts by educational organizations, including beef breed associations and extension programs, should focus on disseminating information on this topic.