October October2017 2017——Issue IssueI I
Annual Bull Issue
Passing the test Using genetic evaluations on your herd PAGE 23
PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID BRYAN, TX 77802 PERMIT # 23
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21,745 - $1,000 - $500 $
22,715 - $1,000 - $500
$
20,245
$
†
26,575 - $750 $
25,825
$
2
21,215
$ *$0 Down, 0% A.P.R. financing for up to 60 months on purchases of select new Kubota L3301 / L3901 / L4701/ MX5200 equipment from participating dealers’ in-stock inventory is available to qualified purchasers through Kubota Credit Corporation, U.S.A.; subject to credit approval. Some exceptions apply. Example: 60 monthly payments of $16.67 per $1,000 financed. Offer expires 10/31/17. See us or go to www.KubotaUSA.com for more information.**Customer instant rebates of $500 are available on qualifying cash or standard rate finance purchases of new Kubota L2501 / L3301 / L3901 / L4701 equipment from participating dealers’ stock inventory. Rebate is not available with 0% A.P.R. or other promotional financing. Some exceptions apply. Offer expires 10/31/17. See us or go to www.KubotaUSA.com for more information.***Customer instant rebates of $1,000 are available on purchases of new Kubota L3301 / L3901 / L4701/ MX5200 equipment with two new qualifying implements from participating dealers’ stock. 1st implement $700, 2nd implement $300. Some exceptions apply. Offer expires 10/31/17. See us or go to www. KubotaUSA.com for more information.**** Customer instant rebates of $750 are available on qualifying cash or standard rate finance purchases of new MX5200 equipment from participating dealers’ stock inventory. Rebate is not available with 0% A.P.R. or other promotional financing. Some exceptions apply. Offer expires 10/31/17. See us or go to www. KubotaUSA.com for more information. †For complete warranty, safety and product information, consult your local Kubota dealer and the product operator’s manual. Power (HP/KW) and other specifications are based on various standards or recommended practices.
October 2017 — Issue I
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The Land & Livestock Post
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October 2017 — Issue I
www.circlexbrangus.com 3
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4
October 2017 — Issue I
Heifers ADG,DMI = 0.096
The Land & Livestock Post
News From the General Manager
I
t’s important to have goals in life. Over this past summer, I set a goal to shoot under 100 in golf. It took several rounds, but I eventually did it, and I didn’t even cheat. OK, well, I cheated a little, but once I figured out I made my goal, and would have without cheating, I adjusted the score card. It is hard to get anywhere if you don’t have some idea of where you’re trying to go. Be it recreational, professional or personal, setting a goal and working toward it is a JESSE WRIGHT healthy way to help you grow. Now, I don’t always meet my goals, but at least I try. For instance, I was trying to eat healthy, and I had done so all week for the most part. But, by the end of the week, I was enticed to go out to lunch with some co-workers. In my mind, I thought I would stay on the path and order something healthy. But in reality I got a hamburger and onion rings. Did I mention the hamburger had macaroni and cheese on it? The hamburger had macaroni and cheese on it. It was really good, and I have no regrets. Sometimes you try for one thing, and end up with
a macaroni-and-cheese burger, and that’s OK, too. Professionally, I had a goal for this issue, and I far exceeded it. You may notice that this issue is a little larger than usual — about twice as big to be exact. That is because it is our Annual Bull Issue, and much like your herd bull, it is the biggest and baddest one of them all. In this issue we have stories about, you guessed it, bulls. We take a look at genetic evaluations in our cover story, and we also have some information to consider when choosing a bull. We also have news and information from all around the ag industry to go along with our core subject, and a lot of great ads for breeds, equipment and upcoming sales. There’s a lot to go through, so you should be able to find something you like. Hope you enjoy it, and thanks for reading. ’Til next time,
z For more information about content or advertising, contact Jesse Wright at jesse.wright@theeagle.com.
1.2 million beef cows in 54 counties affected by Hurricane Harvey By Blair Fannin Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service
The 54 Texas counties declared a disaster area due to Hurricane Harvey are home to more than 1.2 million beef cows, according to a U.S. Department of Agriculture inventory report. “That’s 27 percent of the state’s cowherd,” said David Anderson, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension
Service livestock economist in College Station. “That’s a conservative estimate of beef cow numbers because 14 of those counties only have cattle inventory estimates.” Anderson noted since it is late August, a lot of calves in the affected areas are either close or ready to be marketed. The disaster area also includes a large
See HARVEY, Page 45
The Land & Livestock Post
October 2017 — Issue I
5
News
In the wake of Hurricane Harvey Hay, animal supplies trucked in from all over to assist ag producers
By Blair Fannin Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service
N
OME — The outpouring of support from neighboring states has been overwhelming, said Mike Doguet, owner of Doguet’s Diamond D Ranch Turf Farm in Nome. “We have had truckloads of hay coming from all over,” Doguet said. “It’s just been amazing.” Doguet and his son-in-law Matt Willey, opened up their warehouse facility at Nome following Hurricane Harvey to serve as an animal supply point, with
6
Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service photos by Blair Fannin
Above, left, Mike Doguet shows a rescue effort to save cattle on the ranch at Nome during Hurricane Harvey. Above, a truck of donated hay and other supplies from New Jersey is unloaded in Sour Lake. assistance from the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service. They had just weathered one of the worst hurricanes in the history of Texas, making every attempt to save nearly 500 head of Brangus cattle on their ranch in Southeast Texas. With flood waters rising every hour, Doguet and Willey, along with ranch hands, found themselves rounding up cattle on horseback, in the dark or by boat, to get the herd to the highest point on the ranch.
• More photos, Page 7 “But even the places you thought were the highest points, it turned out they weren’t,” Willey said. “We were down to our last 80-100 acres or so of high land.” Doguet said a mere seven inches separated flood waters from entering their ranch home, though family members had to be taken out by boat. Doguet said they did lose more than 300 round bales of hay that sat in a pole barn engulfed by rising flood waters.
October 2017 — Issue I
The bales were stacked, however, and those that were on the second and third rows survived. “But a lot of folks around here don’t have barns, and winter is coming up,” Doguet said. The animal supply point has provided hay, bedding materials and other supplies for ranchers and livestock owners in Jefferson County and the surround-
See NEIGHBORS, Page 8
The Land & Livestock Post
News
Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service photos by Blair Fannin
Above, Mike Doguet, owner of Doguet Turf Farm in Nome responds to a rancher’s call needing hay. Left, a sign in Sour Lake makes a call for hay and animal supplies for Hardin County victims of Hurricane Harvey.
The Land & Livestock Post
October 2017 — Issue I
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News Neighbors, from Page 6
Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service photos by Blair Fannin
Matt Willey discusses the rising flood waters sustained in Nome during Hurricane Harvey.
ing area. The need was so intense immediately after the hurricane that the supply point distributed as many as 500 round bales in one afternoon. “There were trucks lined up all along the road,” Willey said. “We had an assembly line here inside the warehouse getting dog and cat food unloaded. You’ve just never seen anything like it. But you know what, nobody got impatient. Everybody just understood the situation. “There are people here that have so much pride and don’t want any help with hay or supplies. We’ve had to force the issue. They need the hay; they need to keep their cattle fed and alive. This is what this is here for and this why so many people have chipped in.” Doguet pulled out a legal pad with a list of ranchers needing hay. Some needed as much as 600 round bales. “Every one of these individuals need double what they are asking for, but they don’t want to take something that might help another person,” Doguet said. The next concern is cattle coming down with pneumonia. Willey said some of his cattle were showing symptoms so he made a quick trip to see Eric Metteauer, veterinarian with SETX Equine and Veterinary Hospital in Sour Lake. Metteauer has been worked around the clock rescuing cattle or tending to sick livestock. At his practice, he was treating everything from horses to dogs. The animal supply point was one of 11 that have operated since Hurricane Harvey hit in August. For more information or to donate, go to bit.ly/2y3vU43.
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Below, flood waters as high as five to six feet ruined several hundred round bales of hay, according to Matt Willey, who ranches at the Doguet Ranch in Nome.
October 2017 — Issue I
The Land & Livestock Post
The Land & Livestock Post
October 2017 — Issue I
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PROFITABILITY POWER.
Reliable, registered Angus genetics deliver better calving ease,
more growth and superior marbling.
USDA analysis shows the superiority of Angus at every stage.
There’s a lot of talk when it comes to certain genetics. But no breed can back it like registered Angus. Reliable, registered Angus genetics offer lower birth weight, greater growth and substantially better marbling than Hereford, Red Angus and Simmental.a That’s based on real data, not hype. Plus, they’re backed by the world’s largest and most reliable genetic evaluation program. Angus calves also bring higher prices than similar calves of any other breed, a combined average of nearly $7/cwt.b more, on average. In fact, packers pay Angus producers $1 million in premiums per week.c
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To subscribe to the Angus Journal®, call 816.383.5200. Watch The Angus Report 7:30 a.m. CST every Monday on RFD-TV.
Year after year, Angus simply offers the best genetics and payout possible. Take the guesswork out of bull buying. Invest in reliable, registered Angus genetics.
ANGUS MEANS BUSINESS.
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October 2017 — Issue I
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CONVENTION
REGISTRATION NOW OPEN
You are invited to participate in the Angus Convention, November 4-6 at the Fort Worth Convention Center. Join us for industry-leading education, the National Angus Tour, an expansive trade show, Certified Angus Beef® meals, a concert and more. The Angus Convention is the premier industry event for anyone involved in producing high-quality beef. Hosted by the American Angus Association, the Angus Convention brings together the best and brightest minds in the cattle business. Cuttingedge thought leadership, industry best-practices, and unparalleled networking opportunities will inspire you to rethink your business to drive results that matter. Learning and networking starts on Friday, November 3 with the optional National Angus Tour. At the Angus Convention, hear keynotes from visionaries, those on the far reaches of business who are pushing the boundaries every day. In breakout sessions, you will learn from industry leaders and peers. Don’t miss this chance to network with like-minded cattlemen and women who, like you, have a personal commitment to quality beef expansion on all levels of the production chain — from cow-calf producer to the commercial cattleman, and the feeder to the packer.
NOV. 4 6, FORT WORTH, TEXAS. REGISTER NOW AT ANGUSCONVENTION.COM
ANGUSCONVENTION.COM
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October 2017 — Issue I
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October 2017 — Issue I
The Land & Livestock Post
The Land & Livestock Post
October 2017 — Issue I
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Ranger® Limiter Technology gets you the results of hand-feeding without the daily chore. Working with your forage, Ranger® Limiter Technology encourages cattle to eat smaller, more frequent meals without overdoing it. Available in different forms to fit different needs, Ranger® Limiter Technology can help put on more pounds per animal per acre. Get hard body results you can see – BODY BY RANGER®. CONTACT YOUR CARGILL BEEF SPECIALIST: Lee Williams | 830-857-0329 | Lee_Williams@cargill.com Seth Skurja | 936-662-2888 | Seth_Skurja@cargill.com
©2017 Cargill, Inc. All rights reserved.
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October 2017 — Issue I
The Land & Livestock Post
The Land & Livestock Post
October 2017 — Issue I
15
SELLING 150 REGISTERED BULLS Friday, November 10, 2017 • NooN
254-749-4560 • 254-749-2240
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October 2017 — Issue I
The Land & Livestock Post
News Improving melon crop focus of $4.4 million study at Texas A&M By KATHLEEN PHILLIPS Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service
Cantaloupe in a Texas A&M AgriLife Research study near Amarillo.
More than $4.4 million is being funded to discover ways to improve the U.S. melon industry through a grant to scientists with Texas A&M AgriLife Research and in seven other states. The monies, provided by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture, were part of $35 million given to 12 projects to find “science-based solutions and new technology for the specialty crop industry.” The four-year project, “A Sustainable, Systems-based Approach for a Safer and Healthier Melon Supply Chain in the U.S.,” will be led by Bhimu Patil, director of AgriLife Research’s Vegetable and Fruit Improvement Center in College Station. It is believed to be the largest grant ever awarded within the Texas A&M University horticultural sciences department, where Patil is also a professor. In announcing the funding, National Institute of Food and Agriculture Director Sonny Ramaswamy, said, “[National Institute of Food and Agriculture] investments in specialty crop research provide high-tech solutions to the needs of farmers and processors. They foster a competitive U.S. industry that offers abundant, nutritious, safe, and affordable food sources.” He said that is why the AgriLife Research effort to enhance the sustainability and profitability of melon production in the U.S., emphasizing consumer preferences
and industry-driven needs, was awarded. Patil said that since 1990, cantaloupes have been associated with 36 U.S. foodborne disease outbreaks and pathogen-based recalls predominantly linked to salmonella. The research will focus on cantaloupe and honeydew, Patil said, because the surface area of these fruits are such that they are harder to wash and thus pathogens can accumulate on the outside and contaminate the flesh when cut. But cantaloupes also have a lot of healthy aspects for consumers and a lot of resistance to disease while growing in fields, he said. “We are interested in developing varieties based on consumer needs,” he said. “And we have more than 20 scientists in seven states collaborating to make this happen.” Patil and the team will conduct consumer evaluations and conduct sensory panels to consider what is desired in the fruit. They also will work with growers and grocery store chains to initiate and continue dialogue about what is desired in developing new, healthier varieties. “The long-term goal of this multidisciplinary project is to enhance the sustainability and profitability of melon production in the U.S., emphasizing consumer preferences and industry-driven needs,” Patil added. “It will be advantageous for both groups.”
Texas A&M AgriLife Research photo
Rio Colonel
“Mr. Consistent” Stonewall is perhaps the most consistent bull in Brangus today. Contact AMS for semen. CE
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WW YW Milk
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The Land & Livestock Post
CE
EPD
BW
WW YW Milk
EPD 5.8
-.8
27
47
12
Acc
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.81
.72
.56
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October 2017 — Issue I
Index
224.40
%RK
1
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scottm@rioranchtx.com Raul Montez • 832.331.6800
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News Improper mosquito control can do more harm than good By Steve ByrnS Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service
STEPHENVILLE — In an effort to save their livestock from the torment caused by the plague of mosquitoes in the wake of Hurricane Harvey, some producers are making the mistake of misusing chemicals to control the pests, said a Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service expert. “The results can be potentially disastrous,” said Sonja Swiger, AgriLife Extension livestock entomologist at Stephenville. “Misuse of potent chemicals can quickly become an example of ‘the cure is worse than the malady,’ not only for the animals being treated but also to the environment. “I have heard people promoting the use of premise treatment products for mosquito control on their cattle,” she said. “They’re reportedly using pyrethroid chemicals that are labeled ‘NOT FOR USE ON ANIMALS’ on their cattle. I can’t emphasize enough how important it is to follow the label, even if it’s 10 pages long. What a tragedy it could be if producers whose animals survived the storm lost them through their own wrongdoing.” Joe Paschal, AgriLife Extension livestock specialist at Corpus Christi, said he’s also heard reports of off-label pesticide use by some in the affected area. “One recommendation was a product I had not heard of,” he said. “I looked it up and it turned out to be a termiticide, which of course was not approved for livestock, only premises.” Swiger said the all-important chemical label specifically defines how a product should and can be used. “Products that are labeled ‘not for animal use’ are not at the proper application rate for the animals or worse, shouldn’t be used on animals at all,” she
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said. “Applying them to livestock could have a negative impact on the animals such as skin issues, retention in the meat or even death.” There are products available that are labeled for on-animal use. Most are permethrins or other pyrethroids but the labeling will say specifically how to treat the animals, she said. Swiger concedes the current demand and logistical problems following Hurricane Harvey have made livestock pesticides harder to find than normal, but they are available. “In a disaster situation people might feel using anything is better than using nothing, but this is, of course not, a smart idea. If the products are not on hand, then make the effort to get the right products.” What happens if producers do nothing? Swiger said not helping to suppress the mosquito populations feeding on one’s cattle also could be detrimental. “Most older cows can withstand the extensive bites and large numbers reported, but they should not have to,” she said. “Calves and heifers are more susceptible and can suffer from anemia due to blood loss or even asphyxiation due to the large mosquito populations. Keep in mind that one female mosquito can lay an average of 200 eggs and at least half will be female. “All will emerge at one time, so there could be hundreds to thousands of mosquitoes looking for blood at the same time. And since these mosquitoes grow in uninhabited locations most of the time, cattle and wildlife are their first hosts.” Paschal said the main immediate problems when confronted by massive numbers of the pests are inhaling and ingesting mosquitoes, especially by young calves. “Hard as it is to believe under normal circumstances, asphyxiation — choking and death — can
Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service picture by Joe Paschal
Young calves, such as these pictured in Aransas County, are often the first to fall victim to mosquitoes.
and does occur following events such as Hurricane Harvey,” Paschal said. “Besides the hazards to young calves that have already been pretty well stressed from the storm, mosquitoes can transmit parasites and diseases to other animals — such as heartworms to dogs, the encephalopathies and equine infectious anemia to equines, and of course, numerous human maladies. For more information, go to livestockvetento.tamu.edu .
Mosquito Safari website critical after Harvey Special to The Post
DALLAS — Visitors to the Mosquito Safari website at mosquitosafari.tamu.edu will find comprehensive information on common mosquitoes, the diseases they carry and instructions for controlling the pest. They said the information is critical in the wake of Hurricane Harvey, whose initial rains forced mosquitoes from their habitats into human areas, and whose residual standing waters have created new environments for mosquito breeding. “The best thing people can do to fight this pest is to arm themselves with knowledge,” said AgriLife Extension entomologist Mike Merchant of Dallas. “Mosquito Safari gives people the best available scientific information for dealing with these pests, which is especially important following the state’s recent weather events.” The newly redesigned website
See CONTROL, Page 27
October 2017 — Issue I
The Land & Livestock Post
News Imperative to capture, utilize forage resources efficiently By EVAN WHITLEY and CURTIS LARSON The Samuel Roberts Noble Foundation
Ruminants have a distinct advantage compared to other livestock because of their ability to process highly fibrous, otherwise nonutilizable, feedstuffs into a marketable product. Oftentimes, this conversion advantage is only referenced to specific, industry-related outcomes such as body condition,
parturition and/or weight gain. A bigger picture perspective, however, points to the societal benefits these animals possess. Ruminants are both “cellulose converters,” and they thrive in geographic regions that otherwise would go underutilized. This especially is true for cattle based on their contribution to human-consumable protein (per capita beef consumption is approximately 55 pounds) and the overall magnitude of the cattle industry’s economic impact
($88.25 billion in receipts). Considering beef ’s broader contribution and the likelihood that hay and pasture costs make up between 30 and 35 percent of a spring-calving cow herd’s total production cost, it is imperative for operations to strive for efficient capture, allocation and utilization of forage resources. This can be done through a systematic grazing management plan and an efficient supplemental feeding program that includes hay as a potential option.
LIVESTOCK MARKET REPORT Brazos Valley Livestock
Results of the Bravos Valley Livestock Commission’s Sept. 12 sale. Head: 1,390 Steers: 200-300 lbs., $170$230; 300-400 lbs., $160-$212; 400-500 lbs., $150-$196; 500-600 lbs., $137-161; 600-700 lbs., $126$140; 700-800 lbs., $130-$136 Heifers: 200-300 lbs., $165$190; 300-400 lbs., $140-$175; 400-500 lbs., $130-$148; 500600 lbs., $126-$142; 600-700 lbs., $118-$133; 700-800 lbs., $120-$130 Slaughter bulls: $65-$88 Slaughter cows: $50-$66 Bred cows: $850-$1,400 Cow/calf pairs: $1,100-$1,250
Buffalo
Results of the Buffalo Livestock Commission’s Sept. 9 sale. Head: 2,204 Steers: 150-200 lbs., $165$240; 200-300 lbs., $150-$217; 300-400 lbs., $135-$212; 400-500 lbs., $130-201; 500-600 lbs., $120$170; 600-700 lbs., $115-$150; 700-800 lbs., $110-$133 Heifers: 150-200 lbs., $130$200; 200-300 lbs., $130-$190; 300-400 lbs., $130-$180; 400500 lbs., $120-$155; 500-600 lbs., $115-$140; 600-700 lbs.,$105$131; 700-800 lbs.,$100-$125 Slaughter bulls: $65-$100 Slaughter cows: $40-$71 Bred cows: $950-$1,600 Cow/calf pairs: $850-$3,300
Caldwell
Results of the Caldwell Livestock Commission’s Sept. 13 sale. Head: 921 Steers: 200-300 lbs., $185-$240; 300-400 lbs., $175-$210; 400-500 lbs., $165-$183; 500-600 lbs., $145-$165; 600-700 lbs., $133$137; 700-800 lbs., $125-$136 Heifers: 200-300 lbs., $175$210; 300-400 lbs., $155-$182; 400-500 lbs., $145-$172; 500600 lbs., $135-$157; 600-700 lbs., $130-$172; 700-800 lbs., $125-$147 Slaughter bulls: $65-$88 Slaughter cows: $45-$72 Bred cows: $800-$1,100 Cow/calf pairs: $1,100-$1,200
Groesbeck
Results of the Groesbeck Auction and Livestock Company’s Sept. 14 sale. Head: 914 Steers: 300-400 lbs., $160$210; 400-500 lbs., $140-$202; 500-600 lbs., $130-$180; 600-700 lbs., $125-$170; 800-900 lbs., N/A. Heifers: 300-400 lbs., $145$190; 400-500 lbs., $135-$175; 500-600 lbs., $130-$170; 600-700 lbs., $160-$165; 800-900 lbs., N/A. Slaughter bulls: $80-$87 Slaughter cows: $54-$72 Bred cows: $800-$1,400 Cow/calf pairs: $1,100-$1,800
Jordan
Results of the Jordan Cattle Auc-
The Land & Livestock Post
tion’s Sept. 14 sale. Head: 3,172 Steers: Under 200 lbs., $180$206; 200-300 lbs., $180-210; 300-400 lbs., $170-$212; 400500 lbs., $150-$200; 500-600 lbs., $140-$170; 600-700 lbs., $133$146; 700-800 lbs., $125-$135 Heifers: Under 200 lbs., $150$162.50; 200-300 lbs., $150-$165; 300-400 lbs., $145-$170; 400-500 lbs., $150-$200; 500-600 lbs., $125-$143; 600-700 lbs., $120$134.50; 700-800 lbs., $110-$135 Slaughter bulls: $68-$86.50 Slaughter cows: $50-$69 Bred cows: $700-$1,225 Cow/calf pairs: $1,300-$1,500
Fortunately, this past summer was pretty good to us, and quite a bit of excess forage production was available to capture. Oftentimes quantity doesn’t correlate to quality, however, which begs the question of how to ensure we properly allocate and utilize hay during the upcoming feeding season regardless of whether the hay is raised or purchased. Allocation is also of utmost importance and can alter the overall efficiency by which these “stored” nutrients are utilized. Most often, allocation consists of a hay bale sometimes in a ring, in the middle of a pasture, or next to mineral and a water source. Although this is commonly the case, it isn’t the most efficient means of feeding hay. Minimally, use a bale ring to maintain the
integrity of the bale for as long as possible and to reduce losses caused by trampling and contamination from urination and defecation. To reduce wastage further, consider labor availability and minimize the amount of hay offered, but be sure to meet the daily intake needs of the animals being fed especially if a hay ring isn’t being used. As one would imagine, the biggest potential downside is the machine cost. This has to be weighed on a case-by-case basis depending on the size of the operation, access to resources (labor, hay quality, capital, etc.) and the value placed upon convenience. z Evan Whitley is a cattle systems contract research manager and Curtis Larson is the farm facility manager, for the Samuel Roberts Noble Foundation.
Navasota
Results of the Navasota Livestock Commission’s Sept. 9 sale. Head: 1,902 Steers: 150-300 lbs., $115$232.50; 300-400 lbs., $115-$210; 400-500 lbs., $115-$202.50; 500600 lbs., $110-$155; 600-700 lbs., $110-$139 Heifers: 150-300 lbs., $115$210; 300-400 lbs., $115-$175; 400-500 lbs., $115-$165; 500600 lbs., $110-$160; 600-700 lbs., $105-$137 Slaughter bulls: $70-$86 Slaughter cows: $45-$66 Bred cows: $700-$1,200 Cow/calf pairs: $1,050-$1,450 —Special to The Post
October 2017 — Issue I
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Bulls ALL TYPES OF STRUCTURAL STEEL & PIPE Steel Buildings
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776-SELL (7355) October 2017 — Issue I
The Land & Livestock Post
The Land & Livestock Post
October 2017 — Issue I
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October 2017 — Issue I
The Land & Livestock Post
News
Taking the test Genetic evaluations: a good tool for cow-calf producers By RoBeRt FeaRs Special to The Post
G
enetic evaluations are a good tool for cow-calf operators to use to improve herd productivity. Application of these evaluations in selecting herd bulls critically is important because they will contribute 50 percent of the genetics to the calf crop. Genetic evaluations remove a lot of guess-work from animal selection. Most of the following information is taken from a fact sheet written by Alison Van Eenennaam of the University of California, Davis. The fact sheet is titled “Recent Developments in Genetic Evaluations and Genomic Testing” and is included in the 62nd Annual Texas A&M Beef Cattle Short Course proceedings.
Expected progeny differences
The basic tool for measuring genetic quality is expected progeny differences. They provide a way to compare expected performance in future progeny between breeding animals. Majority of genetic evaluations for beef cattle are made by breed associations. Expected progeny differences typically are associated with Beef Improvement Federation accuracies. Ranging from .00 to 1.0, Beef Improvement Federation accuracy is the reliability placed on the expected progeny difference. An Beef Improvement Federation accuracy close to 1.0 indicates higher reliability than one closer to .00. Many breed associations list accuracies as letters, such as PE or I for young bulls with very little progeny information. The accuracy measurements are very conservative and it takes a lot of progeny records to increase them.
The Land & Livestock Post
Photos by Robert Fears
Above, adjustment factors are available for genetic evaluation of crossbred cattle. On the cover, the bull contributes 50 percent of the genetics of his progeny. Breed associations use a variety of evaluations and methods to calculate their expected progeny differences. As a result, there are different expected progeny differences reported for different breeds. Within a breed, expected proge-
October 2017 — Issue I
ny differences can be directly compared; however, this is not true when comparing across different breeds because an expected progeny difference from one breed evaluation is not directly comparable to an expected progeny difference
from another evaluation. Across-breed adjustment factors, developed by the Meat Animal Research Center, has provided a way to compare
See EVALUATE, Page 29
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Building a Brand
Texas Beef Council launched a new ad campaign “Only in Texas” as part of their ongoing Beef Loving Texans movement — a consumer-driven brand created to share unique recipes, stories, cooking and shopping tips, and expert nutrition information.
TELEVISION
TEXAS STORIES
RADIO
BILLBOARDS
TELEVISION
BILLBOARDS
The Beef Loving Texans television ad airing in Dallas, Houston and Austin for 9 weeks, is expected to reach more than
Texans will also see Beef Loving Texans ads on 159 billboards across the state with the expected reach of more than 337 million impressions.
26 million viewers. Amanda Dyer, Fort Davis
TEXAS STORIES
Beef Loving Texans is a celebration of all that it means to be a true Texan. To take pride in the state and its heritage. To embrace family and community. To evolve with change and endure challenges. And to believe cattle are the heart of our culture. Our mission is simple — turn more Texans into Beef Loving Texans.
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RADIO
Learn more about your beef checkoff at texasbeefcheckoff.com
October 2017 — Issue I
The Land & Livestock Post
Radio ads featured on Pandora radio will reach more than 2.3 million Texans. Hear us online!
The Land & Livestock Post
October 2017 — Issue I
Putting a face to the hard-working cattlemen and cattlewomen raising the beef on consumers’ plates, the Beef Loving Texans’ Texas Stories bring a personal touch to the campaign. Look for familiar faces by visiting beeflovingtexans.com/texas-stories
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News Conditions are prime for leaf spot in Bermuda grass By AdAm Russell Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service
OVERTON — Humid conditions and excess forage in East Texas have created a prime environment for leaf spot in Bermuda grass hay fields, according to a Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service expert. Vanessa Corriher-Olson, AgriLife Extension forage specialist in Overton, said a high volume of forage growth this year and weather conditions in East Texas have created conditions for Helminthosporium leaf spot, or Bipolaris, a plant fungus, to infest Bermuda grass fields. Conditions for leaf spot are extreme this year because rain events have created prime con-
Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service photo by Adam Russell
Conditions for Helminthosporium leaf spot, or Bipolaris, a plant fungus, are prime in Bermuda grass pastures due to warm conditions and high humidity, especially in locations where forages have not been harvested on schedule because of wet weather. ditions for the fungus and prevented many producers from accessing hay pastures to cut, she said. The excess forage that keeps
See LEAF SPOT, Page 28
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October 2017 — Issue I
The Land & Livestock Post
News
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The Mosquito Safari homepage at mosquitosafari.tamu.edu
Control, from Page 18 identifies the seven types of mosquitoes considered by entomologists to pose the biggest public health concerns. It reviews the diseases they carry by offering in-depth descriptions, video and infographics on effects and symptoms. An interactive “backyard safari” also allows users to explore the places mosquitoes inhabit around the home. In the face of recent and expected mosquito population surges, Mosquito Safari’s most important offering is mosquito control methods, Merchant said. The site lays out an integrated approach to mosquito control, which includes a range of tools and practices that can be used in tandem to reduce mosquito numbers and to help avoid human contact. “There are many ways of controlling mosquitoes that involve
practices beyond just chemical spray solutions,” Merchant said. “It all depends on the environment where the infestation has occurred. Mosquito Safari is designed to provide control measures for a range of scenarios, using science-backed methods and information.” Those who wish to learn more about the pests and about what makes the website’s prescribed control methods effective also can use Mosquito Safari to delve deeper into the mosquito’s life cycle. Videos on each stage of the life cycle walk viewers through the mosquito’s development, covering the egg, larva, pupa and adult stages. “Especially in light of the shocking mosquito numbers we’re seeing now in Harvey-impacted areas, we’re urging people to take advantage of this free, valuable tool,” Merchant said.
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October 2017 — Issue I
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News Leaf spot, from Page 26 moisture within the canopy and prevents sunshine and air movement creates optimal conditions for an infestation. Leaf spot typically appears in late summer when weather is warm, usually between 75 degrees and 90 degrees, with high relative humidity, she said. “It typically affects our Bermuda grass pastures and hay meadows when there is excess forage and conditions that support moisture and heat,” Corriher-Olson said. “So in a year like this one where we’ve had moisture throughout and forage production is high, the possibility of leaf spot infestations is higher, especially in fields that are not grazed or harvested in a timely manner.” Infestations occur in irregular patches, but severely affected hay fields may become brown and thin, she said. Heavy infestations can decrease hay yields and quality. Leaf spot can be identified as lesions on leaves that are brownish green to black in color, she said. The only defense against leaf spot is avoidance, Corriher-Olson said. Selecting resistant varieties of Bermuda grass, maintaining soil
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fertility, removing thatch from pastures and harvesting forage in a timely manner will reduce the risk of infestation, she said. “There are no fungicides that are legal, affordable or effective against leaf spot,” she said. Corriher-Olson said selecting resistant varieties, such as Tifton 85, Tifton 44 and Coastal Bermuda grass, will not guarantee disease infestations will not occur if conditions are extreme but they will perform better than other varieties. Soil fertility, especially maintaining proper potassium levels, can help plants fight disease more effectively. “Potassium deficiencies can weaken our Bermuda grass, which makes it much more susceptible to diseases,” she said. Grazing the pasture or cutting grasses to open up the canopy and allow sun and air movement into the thatch to dry the forage is critical to avoiding the fungus, she said. “All the rain has been good for hay producers because of the excess forage growth, but that can also be a problem if they can’t get into the field to harvest it,” she said. “I’ve noticed pastures that were lodging because producers weren’t able to access them in a timely manner. Lodging creates a high moisture environment that promotes the fungus.”
October 2017 — Issue I
The Land & Livestock Post
News Evaluate, from Page 23 genetics of different breeds. The adjustment factors are available at beefimprovement. org. Links to across breed expected progeny difference calculator worksheets are found on the eBEEF page at www.ebeff.org. Kansas State University and Oklahoma State University developed the worksheets. To help improve comparability of expected progeny differences from different breeds, the 12 breed associations, listed in Figure 1, are collaborating under the umbrella of International Genetic Solutions (IGS) to develop a multibreed database that enables expected progeny difference calculations on a common basis. This database allows commercial producers to compare directly the genetic merit of animals regardless of breed composition. The cumulative IGS database contains approximately 16 million total animal records and 100,000 genotypes (genetic composition). More than 340,00 new animals are added to the data base annually. One feature of IGS collaboration is that many of the participating breed associations require or strongly encourage whole-herd (also called inventory-based) recording. Historically, many breed associations did not require data to be submitted on females that failed to reproduce or whose progeny were not registered. By contrast, inventory-based reporting requires collection of annual reproductive records on every female within a herd so that some record exists for each animal, regardless of whether they produced progeny in that year. According to the Beef Improvement Federation, the objective of whole herd recording is to accumulate reproductive and certain performance data on all animals in a breed. It does not, however, seek to
control which animals are registered. That remains a decision of individual breeders. Whole herd recording enables collection of data relevant to development of expected progeny differences for important traits such as heifer pregnancy and stayability which would otherwise be difficult to produce with incomplete information. It also helps to remove selection bias from genetic evaluations which results from only obtaining data from superior animals. Production sale catalogs and breed associations often provide breed average expected progeny differences against which to compare a specific bull’s genetic information. Although this is useful information, most commercial producers select bulls that are not the breed average. Since 87.5 percent of the genetics in a calf crop is determined by the previous three sire generations, it is possible to obtain a general sense of a herd’s additive genetic merit by evaluating expected progeny differences of sires used in the recent past.
Genomic testing Incorporation of DNA information (genomic data) into genetic information increases accuracy of expected progeny differences. For producers to make best use of genomic data, it needs to be combined with traditional sources of information such as phenotypes (observable features) and pedigrees. The main advantage of including genomic information in expected progeny differences is that it improves their accuracy on young animals where there is little other information upon which to base genetic merit estimates. This increase in accuracy is dependent upon how much of the genetic variation is explained by the genomic information. Currently, incorporation of
The Land & Livestock Post
genomic information into genetic evaluations is statistically complex and often involves a multistep approach. Breed associations are working on a simpler single step method to calculate their genomicenhanced expected progeny differences and provide a bet-
ter prediction of true genetic merit. Single step approaches incorporate all available pedigree, genotype and phenotypic information. Two main groups working on improving singlestep methodology in the United States are the University of Georgia and Iowa State Uni-
versity in collaboration with a private company, Theta Solutions LLC. A number of breed associations are developing a suite of novel traits for genetic evaluations. Work toward identifi-
See TEST, Page 30
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October 2017 — Issue I
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News Test, from Page 29 cation of genetic markers for hard-to-measure traits are funded by several large USDA grants. The traits include feed efficiency, susceptibility to bovine respiratory disease complex and fertility. Thousands of genetic mapped animals are required for these studies. Genomic testing is available through breed associations who have partnered with two companies, Zoetis and Neogen/ GeneSeek, that provide genotyping services (determination of genetic composition). Two products exclusively distributed by Angus Genetics Inc. (AGI) and marketed by Zoetis are designed for animals that are at least 75 percent Black Angus. The first product, GeneMax Advantage, is marketed as a heifer selection and mating tool that ranks heifers for net return using the following three economic indices: • Cow Advantage predicts differences in profitability due to heifer development, pregnancy and calving, and sale of weaned progeny. • Feeder Advantage predicts differences in net return of feeder calf progeny due to growth, feed efficiency and Certified Angus Beef (CAB) carcass merit. • Total Advantage predicts differences in profitability from genetic merit across all economically-relevant traits captured in Cow and Feeder Advantage index scores. The second less expensive test, Genemax Focus, utilizes fewer genetic markers and provides genomic predictions for feedlot gain and marbling. The two Genemax tests are intended only for use on unregistered, commercial Angus animals. GeneMax predictions do not contribute to Angus breed association genomic enhanced expected progeny differences. PredicGen is a test marketed by Zoetis as a heifer selection
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Photos by Robert Fears
Above,expected progeny differencess can be directed compared within the same breed. Right, whole-herd recording is important for measuring genetic progress. tool for straight-bred or crossbred British/Continental animals that are less than 75 percent Black Angus. The predicted carcass traits include marbling score, USDA yield grade, grid merit and tenderness. The Igenity Gold and Silver tests are marketed by Neogen as DNA profiles for crossbred and purebred cattle. A single prediction equation is used for each trait to calculate the score, irrespective of the breed composition of the tested animal. The silver test is used to evaluate calving ease maternal, stayability, residual feed intake, average daily gain, tenderness and marbling. Seven additional traits are evaluated with the gold test including birth weight, calving ease direct, heifer pregnancy, docility, milk, ribeye area and back fat thickness. Application of genomics to improve expected progeny difference accuracy is a rapidly developing field. Commercial cattle producers should stay abreast of the advancements to determine their applicability as tools for increasing herd productivity.
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October 2017 — Issue I
ď‚Ť
The Land & Livestock Post
News When it comes to buying bulls, pay attention to the feet by CHERAMIE VIATOR Special to The Post
It’s bull buying season and time for us to think about how we can maintain value in our bull investments. With careful evaluation of a bull’s feet you can add or maintain his value through longevity in your herd. One of the reasons cattlemen cull bulls is a simple one: feet. All too often bulls are culled because their feet have limited their ability to breed cows. If a bull is lame or sore footed, his libido and aggression in breeding cows can be reduced. Any time this happens, dollars are lost for producers. In some areas of the country
Photo by Cheramie Viator
When evaluating bulls it’s important to start at the ground and work upward. a bull may only have to travel in a 50 – 100 acre pasture. But in other areas, cattle may travel several miles each day to graze and get water. In those regions where grazing areas are limited, feet may not be as heavily scrutinized — but they should be. What causes feet problems? Often, the shape of the foot can contribute to how the foot wears. If the shape is incorrect, the bull’s weight distribution can lead to incorrect wear and eventually
See FEET, Page 32
Improve your herd’s productivity
DA L N I T M A R H OW S DS FEE
E
WIX E TL C AT R & OILE RAL E MIN ERS D FEE
Photo by Cheramie Viator
If the foot shape is incorrect, the bull’s weight distribution can lend to incorrect wear and eventually reduced soundness and longevity.
The Land & Livestock Post
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October 2017 — Issue I
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News
Photo sby Cheramie Viator
Above, with careful evaluation of a bull’s feet you can add or maintain his value through longevity in your herd. Right, a bull that is lame or sore footed may breed fewer cows and leave us with open cows.
Feet, from Page 31 reduced soundness and longevity. For instance, if a bull has a screw claw or a toe that curls over the opposite toe we often begin to see joint problems. Shallow heel depth is another problem we often see. When this occurs, there is more stress on the lower limb joints and back of the hoof. Soreness here can hender a bull’s ability to mount a cow. When evaluating bulls it’s important to start at the ground and work upward. A careful look at the toe shape and heel depth can indicate a lot about the bull’s future longevity and breeding ability. While, we don’t have expected progrency differences for feet, some breed associations are working to develop foot scores. Such scores will be another tool in our toolbox for bull selection. A word of caution: No exceptional expected progrency differenc profile for growth, carcass value
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or maternal traits is of any value if a bull has bad feet and has limited breeding seasons. What’s the economic implication of hoof problems? The fewer seasons a bull can breed cows, the fewer calves his purchase price and maintenance costs can be spread across. Also, when we turn bulls out we expect them to do their job. A bull that is lame or sore-footed may breed fewer cows and leave us with open cows. Foot issues can be heritable and costly. I hope as you make bull-buying decisions this fall and next spring you will take a closer look at your investment’s feet. z Cheramie Viator is marketing manager for Westway Food Products. Reprinted from Beef Today/Farm Journal.
October 2017 — Issue I
The Land & Livestock Post
News Ranch Management University to be Oct. 9-13 By Kay LedBetter Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service
From soil management to cattle, forage and wildlife, the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service Ranch Management University, scheduled Oct. 9-13 in College Station, will offer a little something for everyone, according to coordinators. The workshop will meet at the G. Rollie White Visitor Center, 7707 Raymond Stotzer Parkway on the Texas A&M University campus, said Larry Redmon, Texas A&M University soil and crop sciences associate department head and AgriLife Extension program leader in College Station. Registration is $500, with attendance limited to the first 50 who enroll. To register online and for more information, go to agriliferegister.tamu.edu and en-
ter “ranch management” into the search window. The five-day event is designed to help new and novice landowners improve their understanding of resource management on their ranch properties, Redmon said. He said topics to be covered include soil fertility and sampling; hay production, sampling and sprayer calibration; financial considerations and government programs; forage legume management and winter pasture establishment and utilization; beef nutrition requirements and supplements, body condition scores, stocking rates, marketing and genetic strategies for livestock; pond and wildlife management; horse production; and chute-side live-animal handling demonstrations. Also, Redmon said, an entire day will be devoted to wildlife
See RANCH, Page 36
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The Land & Livestock Post
October 2017 — Issue I
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2017 Texas Hereford Fall Classic & s Red A ngu Invitational SALE
Wednesday, Oct. 18, 2017
12 Noon • Buffalo Livestock Marketing, Inc. Buffalo, Texas • 903-322-4940 Sale day lunch furnished by Red Chain Feeds Justin Stout, Auctioneer
SELLING 69 8 3 5
Service-Age Hereford Bulls Red Angus Bulls Registered Hereford Females Commercial Hereford Pairs
He Sells. M BATTLECREEK 6813C • #43742858 • DOB 12-22-15 Sire: KCL 533 Formal Attire 2042 ET BW +4.1 / WW +51 / YW +81 / REA +0.19 / Marb +0.03 Consigned by Mann Cattle Co. • Lubbock, TX
He Sells. GKB 1206 MAXIUM 206C • #43583245 • DOB 10-11-15 Sire: C Notice Me Maxium 1206 ET [DLF,HYF,IEF] BW +4.9 / WW +49 / YW +78 / REA +0.63 / Marb -0.09 Consigned by GKB Cattle • Waxahachie, TX
He Sells. M REDMANN 6807C • #43742853 • DOB 11-04-15 Sire: KCL 533 Formal Attire 2042 ET BW +4.8 / WW +53 / YW +85 / REA +0.35 / Marb -0.06 Consigned by Mann Cattle Co. • Lubbock, TX
He Sells. RJ MASON 6042 ET • #P43731388 • DOB 02-17-16 Sire: CHAC Mason 2214 [DLF,HYF,IEF] BW +4.9 / WW +66 / YW +104 / REA +0.69 / Marb -0.01 Consigned by Rafter J Cattle Co. • Abilene, TX
CONSIGNORS Atlas Farms – Grandview, TX • Curry Herefords – Okemah, OK Dauer Herefords – Panhandle, TX • DR Cattle LLC – Hull, TX GKB Cattle – Waxahachie, TX • Grubbs Cattle Co. – Arlington, TX Iron Lake Ranch – Athens, TX • Mann Cattle Co. – Lubbock, TX McMullin Ranch – Copperas Cove, TX Nelson & Nelson Red Angus – Beaver, OK Newton Cattle – Midway, TX • Pool Ranch – Laneville, TX Pullen Herefords – Rockwall, TX • Rafter J Cattle Co. – Abilene, TX Ricketson Herefords – Dalhart, TX Spearhead Ranch – Copperas Cove, TX Texas 2T Farm – Nacogdoches, TX • Curtis Younts & Son – Belton, TX
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October 2017 — Issue I
He Sells. ILR 5059 FULL THROTTLE 619 ET • #43691749 DOB 02-25-16 Sire: H/TSR/CHEZ/Full Throttle ET [CHB,DLF,HYF,IEF] BW +5.5 / WW +57 / YW +96 / REA +0.80 / Marb -0.03 Consigned by Iron Lake Ranch • Athens, TX For more information contact:
Texas Hereford Association
Jack Chastain: 817-821-3544 Ty deCordova: 903-390-6183 texashereford@sbcglobal.net www.texashereford.org
The Land & Livestock Post
News Beware of scammers after Harvey By Paul SchattenBerg Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service
Texans affected by Hurricane Harvey should be aware of unscrupulous people who may try to take advantage of them through fraud, scams and identity theft and other criminal activity, said a Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service specialist. “Texans need to be aware of the potential for things like fraud, ID theft and price gouging in the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey,” said Nancy Granovsky, AgriLife Extension family economics specialist in College Station. “Unfortunately, some people look at disasters as an opportunity to take advantage of the desperation and vulnerability of those affected. While recovering from a disaster, people may not want to think about this, but it could happen so they need to be vigilant.” According to the Texas Attorney General’s Office, a natural disaster “pulls in an army of price gougers, fly-by-night doorto-door contractors and bogus charities.” Both state and federal recovery officials are encouraging those affected by Hurricane Harvey to take steps to avoid common post-disaster fraud. Granovsky said price gouging is illegal under the Texas Deceptive Trade Practices Act, and the state’s attorney general already has warned against profiteering during a disaster. “Charging excessively for necessities like groceries, drinking water, ice, gasoline and such in a designated disaster area can
constitute price gouging,” she said. “If you feel you’ve been the victim of price gouging, you can file a complaint with the Texas Attorney General’s Office.” For additional information, go to texasattorneygeneral.gov/. Granovsky, FEMA and the Texas Attorney General’s office also provided the following tips on how to avoid fraudulent contractors: • Use only state-licensed local contractors backed by reliable references. • Make sure the contractor has general liability insurance and workers’ compensation. • Get a minimum of three estimates in writing and insist on a clear, written contract. • Call the Better Business Bureau to see if there are any complaints against the contractor. • Write down the salesperson’s license plate number. • Avoid out-of-town businesses as it may be more difficult to correct a problem or get your money back. • Get everything in writing and keep a copy of all documents. • Do not sign a contract with blanks. • Make sure guarantees are in writing and are reflected in the contract. • Have an independent agent such as an insurance adjuster or real estate inspector inspect the completed work before you make full payment. • Don’t sign completion papers or make final payment until the work is completed to your satisfaction.
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The Land & Livestock Post
October 2017 — Issue I
35
News Cow Country Congress set Oct. 13 at Santa Rosa Ranch in Crockett By Blair Fannin Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service
CROCKETT — Global trade impacts, herbicide and forage management, bull selection and winter feeding strategies will be the featured topics at Cow Country Congress, scheduled Oct. 13 at Santa Rosa Ranch in Crockett. The event is sponsored by the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service, Santa Rosa Ranch and the Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association. Registration, which includes lunch, is $20 by Oct. 6 or $30 after. Call 936-544-7502 to preregister. The event will begin with registration at 8:30 a.m. and the pro-
Ranch, from Page 33 management, including using wildlife for agricultural property tax purposes. Some of the species to be covered include turkey, feral hogs, dove, white-tailed deer and bobwhite quail. The day will include farm pond management and a farm pond visit. Speakers will be from Texas A&M University’s departments of soil and crop sciences, wildlife
gram will conclude by 5 p.m. Scheduled topics and speakers include: • ranch history — Gerald Sullivan and Kelley Sullivan, coowners, and Randy Parten. • Herbicide and forage program — Vanessa Corriher-Olsen, AgriLife Extension forage specialist in Overton. • legislative update — state Rep. Trent Ashby, R-Lufkin, and state Sen. Robert Nichols, R-Jacksonville. • Global trade impacts — John Porter, legislative director for U.S. Rep. Kevin Brady, RConroe.
See CONGRESS, Page 37
and fisheries, animal science and ag economics. Meals and break refreshments will be provided. A resource flash drive containing more than 100 publications covering ranch resource management also will be provided. For additional information, contact Redmon at 979-845-4826 or l-redmon@tamu.edu, or Linda Francis at 979-845-2425 or l-francis@tamu.edu.
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October 2017 — Issue I
The Land & Livestock Post
News
Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service photo by Blair Fannin
Global trade impacts, herbicide and forage management, bull selection and winter feeding strategies will be the featured topics at Cow Country Congress scheduled Oct. 13 at Santa Rosa Ranch in Crockett.
Congress, from Page 36 • Global Trade Impacts and meat choices — Jeff Savell, Texas A&M University distinguished professor and E.M. “Manny” Rosenthal chairholder in the department of animal science in College Station. Participants also will participate in bull selection activities
led by Jason Cleere and Jason Banta, AgriLife Extension beef cattle specialists at College Station and Overton, respectively. A ranch gathering sponsored by the Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association for members and prospective members will be held at 5:30 p.m. For more information, call 936544-7502.
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News Water and eminent domain: Landowners have rights event on Oct. 5 in Marshall By AdAm Russell Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service
MARSHALL — East Texas landowners can learn about water rights and eminent domain issues during an event Oct. 5 at the Texas State Technical College Library, 2650 East End Blvd. in Marshall. The program is presented by the Texas A&M AgriLife Exten-
sion Service’s Leadership Advisory Board and the Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee in Harrison County. The event begins at 6 p.m. and is free and open to the public. Coffee and cookies will be provided. James Bradbury, a property and water rights attorney in Austin, will be the speaker. To RSVP, contact the AgriLife Extension office in Harrison County at 903-935-8413.
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October 2017 — Issue I
The Land & Livestock Post
News
Cotton gin trash finding new life for electrical power By Blair Fannin Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service
Texas A&M AgriLife Research photo by Blair Fannin
Finding sustainable markets for gin trash, wood chips and other waste products could be viable in producing more electrical power for a growing global population, according to researchers. A demonstration was held recently on the campus of Texas A&M University in College Station showcasing a biomassfueled fluidized bed gasifier, utilizing cotton gin trash and wood chips to power an electric generator. The fluidized bed gasification system was developed in the 1980s when a patent was issued to Calvin Parnell Jr. and W.A. Lepori, who both were part of the Texas Agricultural Experiment Station, now Texas A&M AgriLife Research. Cotton gin trash and other biomass feedstocks have been used as fuel to generate heat energy for power production. The technology has been a focal point for Sergio Capareda, AgriLife Research agricultural engineer in the department of
Cotton gin trash and other biomass feedstocks have been used as fuel to generate heat energy for power production. biological and agricultural engineering at Texas A&M, who researched the technology while working on his graduate degree during the late 1980s. Parnell and LePori were Capareda’s graduate advisors. Cotton gin trash is produced in abundance at cotton gins across Texas and usually left unutilized, Capareda said. During harvest season, piles of cotton gin trash can be found at gins throughout the state. “The process is gasification,” Capareda said. “We limit the amount of air to thermally convert the biomass so the products are combustible gases. These are collectively called synthesis gas. Carbon monoxide and hydrogen, plus a little methane, ethlyene — these are a combustible mix-
See COTTON GIN, Page 42
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October 2017 — Issue I
The Land & Livestock Post
News What to watch for in the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey mucus running from the nose. Later you might notice crusty eyes and a lowered head. You’ll want to get treatment for these animals as soon as possible.” Banta said he expects pneumonia and foot rot to be the two biggest livestock health issues stemming from the hurricane. Another hazard to livestock may be stinging insects and venomous snakes. “Usually, snakes bite animals on the head or neck area, but smaller livestock can be bitten anywhere on their body the snake can reach,” Paschal said. “Water moccasins, rattlesnakes and copperheads are the most likely to strike and can be recognized by their triangular head shape.” “Smaller animals are more susceptible to snakebite since the dose of venom is greater relative to body size,” he said. “They are also more vulnerable to fire ant bites. And venomous spiders are also a concern, but their bites are usually not fatal to livestock.” Paschal also noted internal and external parasites can become a major problem after a flood. He said the best defense is to vaccinate livestock against illnesses such as respiratory disease and leptospirosis and provide a booster shot when necessary. Paschal said internal paraAdditional information on livestock recovery after a disaster can be found on Texas Extension Disaster Education Network, Texas EDEN, website at texashelp.tamu.edu.
By Paul SchattenBerg Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service
Livestock in the wake of Hurricane Harvey are still at risk for lack of feed, injury or disease, said Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service specialists. “Water is the first priority with livestock, so producers should try and find a safe drinking water source and make sure their animals have an adequate supply,” said Jason Cleere, AgriLife Extension beef cattle specialist, College Station. “Some animals may not eat wet forage as readily as dry, but will still eat it if hungry,” he said. “But with substantial flooding, cattle often become stranded and forages may be unavailable or ruined. In such instances, supplemental sources of feed may be necessary.” Cleere said hay is the most important feed source for stranded or displaced cattle. “It’s acceptable for animals to eat clean hay, even if it’s wet, especially if that’s the best option available,” he said. “But don’t give livestock moldy feed as it may contain toxins. And while processed feed can usually be taken into affected areas more easily than hay, be sure it has some roughage in it to help stave off any digestive issues the livestock may have.” Cleere said moving livestock to higher ground will allow better care and help alleviate foot and skin problems. “Producers should also be mindful that Hurricane Harvey may have left a lot of debris in pastures, so it would be a good idea for them to survey these pastures and remove any potential environmental hazards.” Jason Banta, AgriLife Extension beef cattle specialist in Overton, said plastic items, especially plastic bags could be an issue. “Cattle have been known to eat plastic bags and livestock can become seriously ill from consuming foreign objects.” Livestock in affected areas also can be in danger from injury and the bites of fire ants and snakes, said Joe Paschal, AgriLife Extension beef cattle specialist in Corpus Christi. “As soon as it is safe, livestock owners should check on the condition of their animals,” Paschal said. “It is best to move them out of flooded areas and into dry or covered areas if possible, then check them for injury and render any necessary first aid as they are able until a veterinarian can be found.
Venomous snakes are another hazard after flooding. They can kill calves and smaller livestock and cause serious injury to larger animals. “If an animal has an injury, clean the cause additional physiological stress. wound and dress it with a topical antibi- Also, some young animals may have lost otic, and cover it with a bandage or gauze their mother, so they will need special if you have some. Then contact your vet care.” Paschal said animals that have not been and provide a full description of the injury as your vet will likely need to prioritize the able to eat for one or more days should be given a little feed over the first few days, treatment of your animal.” Paschal said producers also be aware then have the amount gradually increased many animals will be in shock and dis- over a week’s time. “Producers should also check their oriented from their recent ordeal. “It’s important to be gentle with live- animals for signs of illness, especially a stock under these conditions,” he said. secondary respiratory disorder like pneu“Don’t overtax them and remember not monia,” he said. “Listen for coughing or to overfeed or overwater them as this can hard breathing, and look for non-clear
The Land & Livestock Post
Irma devastates Florida agriculture juice, other crops Associated Press
Texas A&M AgriLife Communications photo by Blair Fannin
October 2017 — Issue I
ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — Florida’s agriculture commissioner said Sept. 18 that the path of Hurricane Irma “could not have been more lethal” to the state’s farmers and that the scope of damage to the state’s fruits and vegetables is unprecedented. Commissioner Adam Putnam flew over hundreds of miles of Florida farmland to view the damage. Rural communities and farmland were in the path of the devastating storm from south to north. Florida is the nation’s largest juice producer. The citrus industry already was battling a deadly disease when Irma hit. Some citrus producers in Southwest Florida say they’ve lost 80-90 percent of their crop, while producers elsewhere say 40 percent was ruined by the storm.
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News Cotton gin, from Page 39 ture. “Combustible in a sense that you can feed it into an internal combustible engine coupled with a generator so you can turn this fuel into electrical power. “It’s easier said than done, because you have to remove the biochar and all the tar in the syngas before it goes into the engine. We have cleaned up the gas very well in this technology.” The technology converts biomass into electrical power, making it an attractive opportunity for the ag, processing industry and electric utilities. “For this particular demonstration, we used the conversion of cotton gin trash into electrical power,” Capareda said. “We also used wood waste and turned it into electrical power. With the price of electrical power at 10 cents per kilowatt-hour, the economics are very simple. If you run a 1 megawatt system and sell power for 10 cents per kilowatt an hour, your gross revenue is $1 million. If you find some countries overseas where power is very high, this technology is very attractive.” Capareda said the biomass used in the system has to be consistent, meaning whether you are using cotton gin trash or wood chips, it has to be relatively dry and clean without soil, rocks or metals. “That’s how you begin, make sure it is dry and consistent,” he said. “Then you can run this system 24/7. We need 1.5-2 tons per hour or about 36 tons a day to generate 1 megawatt depending on the type of biomass. High-energy content biomass would need a little less than that. It also depends on heating value and moisture content of biomass.” Bob Avant, director of corporate relations for AgriLife Research, said “[This technology] has taken a very evolutionary approach going from a very basic system to one that is computerized. We’re very excited about it and think it has some good applications. We have a number of very big companies interested in this intellectual property.”
42
Texas A&M AgriLife Research photo by Blair Fannin
Left, cotton gin trash and other biomass feedstocks have been used as fuel to generate heat energy for power production. The technology has been a focal point for Sergio Capareda, a Texas A&M AgriLife Research agricultural engineer in the department of biological and agricultural engineering at Texas A&M, who researched the technology while working on his graduate degree during the late 1980s. Above, a demonstration was held on the campus of Texas A&M showcasing a fluidized bed gasifier, utilizing cotton gin trash and wood chips to power an electric generator. Below, the fluidized bed gasification system was developed in the 1980s when a patent was issued to Calvin B. Parnell Jr., left, and W.A. Lepori, right, part of the Texas Agricultural Experiment Station — now Texas A&M AgriLife.The technology has been a focal point for Sergio Capareda, center, a Texas A&M AgriLife Research agricultural engineer in the department of biological and agricultural engineering at Texas A&M, who researched the technology while working on his graduate degree during the late 1980s. Parnell and LePori were Capareda’s graduate advisers.
October 2017 — Issue I
The Land & Livestock Post
News Have wells tested before using after Hurricane Harvey Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service
VICTORIA — Private water well owners whose wells flooded from the recent rains should assume their well water is contaminated until tested, according to Diane Boellstorff, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service water resource specialist in College Station. “You should not use water from a flooded well for drinking, cooking, making ice, brushing your teeth or even bathing until you are satisfied it is not contaminated,” Boellstorff said. Boellstorff, who is in Texas A&M University’s soil and crop sciences department, said floodwater may contain substances from upstream, such as manure, sewage from flooded septic systems or wastewater treatment plants or other con-
taminants. A septic system near a well also can cause contamination when the soil is flooded. Test kits will be distributed in several locations, but any homeowner with a private water well in the flood-affected area is eligible. There are a limited number of kits, which will be distributed on a firstcome, first-served basis. The samples will be analyzed for coliform bacteria by Virginia Tech. Water quality results will be confidential and will be emailed or mailed to residents’ homes. Instructions for decontaminating a well are available through the following publications free for download at twon.tamu.edu/factsheets/: Decontaminating Flooded Water Wells and Shock Chlorination of Wells. Drew Gholson, AgriLife Extension program specialist and net-
work coordinator in College Station, said after a flood wells should be inspected for physical damage and signs of leakage. “If it appears damaged, consult a licensed water well contractor to determine whether repairs are needed,” Gholson said. He also noted flooding can damage the well pump and electrical systems. “If the pump and/or electrical system has been underwater and it is not designed to be under water, do not turn on the pump as there is a potential for electrical shock or damage to your well or pump,” he said. Gholson said once floodwaters have receded and pump and electrical system have dried, have a qualified electrician, well driller or pump installer check the wiring system and other well components.
Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service photo
Private water well owners whose wells flooded due to recent rains from Hurricane Harvey should assume their well water is contaminated until they have it tested.
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October 2017 — Issue I
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News Beef Talk: Calves pay the bills, but the cows make the bills By Kris ringwall North Dakota State University Extension Service
Breeding systems have goals, objectives and outcomes that reflect a total beef operation. Today, dairy, swine and poultry breeding systems exist and many accomplish the operations’ goals and objectives. Beef production, however, often is the exception. The various stages of a good commercial beef breeding system are complex. The implementation takes years, even generations, to achieve, and then the implementation gets fuzzy. Most producers assume buying the right bull is critical, and bull buying is most often the center of discussions when beef producers gather. The genetic tools meant to be utilized to put growth on calves work. At the same time, cow selection and development enters the same discussion. Generally, the question pertains to developing heifers that are the female counterparts to those nice growth steers that were sent to the market. Bull selection generally will focus on setting targets for growth. Birth weight, weaning weight, yearling weight or associated indexes are evaluated and bulls selected. Calving ease usually is mentioned and carcass characteristics enter the discussion. Despite years of expected progeny differences, actual birth weight and ultrasound measurements still are prominent in many discussions. The bottom line: Producers like numbers they can touch and feel, numbers they can see and numbers that they can understand. Breeding systems engage numbers, but often those numbers do not meet the previously noted desires. Anytime a visual concept is transferred to paper via numbers, the dropout rate increases. I am not judging this as good or bad, just acknowledging the reality. Next, the discussion gets quieter. Perhaps the word “quiet” is not correct, but rather a late question crops up: “How does one select for cow size, milk production, longevity and other female-associated traits?” That question produces a lot of blank stares around the room.
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Texas A&M AriLife Photo by Kay Ledbetter
Breeding systems have goals, objectives and outcomes that reflect a total beef operation. Cow selection is system-based. Bull selection should complement the breeding objectives for the cows. Genetic tools are available, but still the pause is long. This is where system development enters because seldom is the cow question asked as a stand-alone component of the beef herd. The question is asked as a consequence of the bulls selected for steer production. So, another question: “Can the beef industry produce terminal and replacement bulls?” Historically, the answer is “yes.” Breed associations provide terminal and maternal indexes, which will work. A challenge, however, is understanding the indexes and making a level of commitment that will allow the index to work. Cattle selection is a long-term proposition. For decades, breeding programs have been proposed to offer cattle producers the opportunity to implement cattle-breeding systems that involve terminal and replacement bulls. But many breeding programs get set aside as new ideas and trends appear. Then more questions arise. Another question, this one slightly different: Does the beef industry fully utilize terminal and maternal bulls? “Maybe” is the muted and faint response. Do produc-
ers actually target bred cows for more appropriate use as selected cows for a designated terminal or replacement program? Either way, bull selection begins with pondering. Back to the initial question, and more questions. Where are the beef industry breeding systems? Have we forgotten the need for breeding systems and the benefits that a good breeding system will bring? Are terminal or rotational breeding systems used to take advantage of breed complementarity and maximize available heterosis (crossing of unrelated breeds)? Some would say today’s breeds are complete and historic complementarity is an industry blend. Some would say heterosis is a nonfunctional historical aspect of breeds past. Well, that would not be true, but perception is strong in a visual-based industry. I acknowledge that some producers have implemented breeding systems, but many have not. Sire selection generally introduces the need for goals, objectives and desired outcomes. Sire selection alone, however, is not a goal, objective or
October 2017 — Issue I
outcome. Sire selection is only a component of a well-designed breeding system and certainly a significant component. Cattle breeding systems, whether across breed or within breed, are at the heart of long-term, cost-conscious, efficient beef production. With the current capacity to generate, evaluate and incorporate sire data across the industry, the chorus is getting louder. The comingling of breeds through crossbreeding, and the data analysis of those breeds of cattle that may contribute to a designed system, hint that perhaps the process already has started. Remember, cow selection is systembased. Bull selection should complement the breeding objectives for the cows. Also remember, the calves pay the bills, but the cows make the bills. For more information, contact a North Dakota State University Extension Service agent (www.ag.ndsu.edu/extension/ directory) or Kris Ringwall at the Dickinson Research Extension Center, 1041 State Ave., Dickinson, North Dakota 58601; 701456-1103; or kris.ringwall@ndsu.edu.
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Harvey, from Page 5 number of livestock auction markets and Sam Kane meat processing. Anderson also commented on the recent USDA Cattle on Feed report. National placements were reported up 2.7 percent. The average of the pre-report estimates was up about 6.1 percent from last year, Anderson said. “I think it is likely that placements in earlier months pulled cattle ahead, as has happened on the marketing side of the ledger in the first half of the year,” Anderson said. “Placements in July were lower than June, for the first time since 2007. It makes for an interesting placements chart with the counter seasonal move.” The number of cattle on feed was reported to be 104.3 percent of a year ago. “Another interesting point is the increasing number of cattle
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The 54 Texas counties declared a disaster area due to Hurricane Harvey contain more than 1.2 million beef cows. on feed more than 120 days,” he said. “This will bear watching. We have placed more lighter weight cattle in recent months, but we certainly don’t need slower marketings.” Higher placements in Minnesota, Nebraska and South Dakota indicated more cattle moving to Corn Belt feeders, but on the other side of that, Iowa placements were below a year ago, Anderson said.
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OW N R A N
CH
575 Bulls (Red Angus, Angus, SimAngus) 400 Spring-Calving Commercial Bred Heifers 50 Bred Registered Females (Red Angus & Angus) 20 AQHA Ranching Heritage Quarter Horses
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October 2017 — Issue I
The Land & Livestock Post
Farm, Ranch & Construction Equipment
HENDERSON & ANDERSON COUNTIES H
11,831± ACRES 1
Farm & Ranch
2017
O OFFERED IN 16 TRACTS
Ranging from 1.2± Acres to 2,104± Acres Ran
NOVEMBER 14TH • 10AM N Held at the Hart-Morris Conservation Center - Athens, TX
Ranchland • Pasture • Farmland • Timberland • Hunting
Expecting over 1000 Lots
AUCTION
Saturday, October 21 - 10:00 A.M. 1036 S. FM 331 - Sealy, Texas
Estate Consignments ‘00 Freightliner FL70 Water Truck ‘03 Chaparral 20’ GN 4 horse slant horse trailer w/ tack area
• • • • • • • •
Native Ranchland & Improved Coastal Bermuda Pastures Several Tracts of Tillable Farmland Miles of Trinity River and Cedar Creek Frontage Excellent Hunting for Deer, Duck & Hog Hardwood Timberland and Hardwood River Bottom Land Highway, Paved County Road and Gravel Road Frontages Small Tracts for Commercial or Residential Development Within two hours of Dallas and Houston
Vermeer 5410 Rebel John Deere 4520 Hydro Round Baler w/net wrap 241 hours showing
OnlinePhotos & Catalog www.SwitzerAuction.net
‘92 Kenworth S/A Truck Tractor, Cummins N14 Motor, 9 speed 224,730 miles showing. 1994 Aztec drop deck trailer 48’ w/ 3’extension w/spread axle
‘Rhino FR 180 15’ Batwing Shredder
Accepting Consignments Mon-Fri 8am-5pm - Deadline 10/19 ONLINE BIDDING ON SELECT ITEMS
979-885-2400
10% BP on Items $2,500 & less. Sale day announcements take precedence over printed material. Accepting cash, check with bank letter of guarantee & credit cards. TXS #7342
From the Full Line, Full Service Seed Company! Apache Arrowleaf Clover Virus Resistance
Cuts your High Nitrogen Costs in Half!
INFORMATION/INSPECTION DAYS
Meet at the Holiday Inn Express - 620 Bryant’s Way, Corsicana, TX 75109 Tuesday, October 3rd – 2-4pm • Wednesday, October 4th – 9-11am Monday, October 23rd – 2-4pm • Tuesday, October 24th -9-11am Broker M. Lyons #588508 Auctioneer S. Shuman #16027
CALL FOR BROCHURE 800.829.8747
www.HallandHall.com The Land & Livestock Post
• Officially released by the Texas A&M University System and licensed exclusively to East Texas Seed Company, Tyler, Texas. • Excellent virus tolerance; resistant to lethal wilt. • High re-seeding potential. • Greater early Spring production, flowering 10-14 days earlier than Yuchi. • Planting rate of 10 pounds per acre in the South during early Fall. • Ideal pasture forage production on well-drained, sandy loam, slightly acidic, southern soils.
EAST TEXAS SEED COMPANY p.o. Box 569 • Tyler, Tx 75710 • 903-597-6637 www.easTTexasseedcompany.com seeds@easTTexasseedcompany.com availaBle aT your local seed dealer call 800-888-1371 • For all your seed needs
October 2017 — Issue I
Bigger. Better Grazing. Tetraploid Vigor. Proven in the South. There is no variety that produces a better combination of forage quality and yield quantity for a longer growing season than Prine.
Given today’s higher cost of production, why plant anything else?
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Your Fall Seed & Fertilizer Headquarters! l Fall Seed Ryegrass Triticale
Seed Oats Cereal Rye
Wheat
Legumes
Wildlife Seed Mixes
l Fertilizer & Application Solutions Fertilizer/Seed Mixes Custom or Do-It-Yourself Application
Your Agriculture Partner Since 1943 1800 N. Texas Avenue in Bryan B
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(979) 778-6000
www.producerscooperativve.com
October 2017 — Issue I
The Land & Livestock Post