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Abstract
In trial 1, 1,744 Commercial Dairy Heifers were evaluated to determine effects of growth on placing within Georgia Commercial Dairy Heifer Shows from 2007-2010. Mean average daily gain (ADG) for all heifers was determined to be 0.65 kg, below suggested ADG levels of 0.7 to 0.8 kg. No strong correlation (r = -0.07; P = 0.0034) was observed between ADG and placing. In the second trial, 238 heifers were evaluated for ADG, placing, weight, age, wither height, hip height, hip width, jaw width, and switch clearance. Height at withers had a moderate relationship (r= 0.42; P < 0.0001) to placing. In trial 3 1,489 Holstein heifers (from 2007-2010) were evaluated and it was determined that 63.75% did not established recommendations for weight gain. Performance and physical features associated with age indicates these commercial dairy heifers are under-fed according to industry standards. Economic implications may occur from this decreased performance.