Body Conditioning Scoring (BCS) Resources
Body Condition Scoring (BCS) is a tool that determines the relative fatness or energy balance and reserves of livestock. Depending on the species of animal, a body condition score can range from a 1 (thin) to a 9 (obese). Each species of livestock has a specific protocol for determining BCS.
BCS is a tool that producers can use to evaluate their herds to determine animal wellness and management decisions.
Resources from South Dakota State University Extension
- Basics of Body Condition Scoring
- Management of Body Condition Score throughout the Year
- Influence of Body Condition on Reproductive Performance of Beef Cows
- Managing Sheep Body Condition Score Throughout the Year
Body Condition Scoring is an enhancement management activity option (E528Q) for the Conservation Stewardship Program. SD NRCS has created worksheets to help producers meet the requirements of the E528Q enhancement: