Producers that utilize artificial insemination in their breeding program must pay close attention to detail to achieve high reproductive rates.  One of the details that is often overlooked is the proper thaw temperature of the water in the thaw thermos that is available to bring semen straws up to the correct temperature.  Most AI companies recommend that the water in the thaw thermos be 95 to 98 degrees Fahrenheit.  When the temperature varies significant from that range, fertility of the semen being thawed decreases gradually. 

As we conduct AI Refresher Clinics around the state of Oklahoma over the past 12 years, we have checked the thermometers in the thaw thermos of many producers.  About one of every 10 of these thermos thermometers were incorrect by 10 degrees F.  In nearly every case, the problem thermometer was a "dial" thermometer, and could have been the culprit in lower conception rates at the owners farm or ranch. 
 

 Therefore producers need to check these thermometers before each breeding season against a reliable mercury type thermometer.  The dial thermometer can be adjusted by using a box end wrench on the collar below the dial and then with vice-grips or pliers turning the rim of the dial to return the thermometer to the correct setting. 

More information is available about the details in a sound beef AI program by reading OSU Fact Sheet F-3164 available through your local OSU County Extension office.