Land and Livestock Post, Dec. 15, 2012 by The Eagle Advertising Department

December 15, 2012

We wish you a Moo-y Christmas To apply or not to apply? Featured story:

Coming up with a plan for 2013 XXXXXXXXXXXXXX PAGE 12 PAGE 12

PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID BRYAN, TX 77802 PERMIT # 23

JAMES HOG WILD THOMPSON

JAMES THOMPSON SURVIVAL TECHNIQUES

PAGE 5 3

PAGE 9 3

JAMESTO SAFE THOMPSON EAT

JAMES NO WIMPY THOMPSON FOODS

PAGE 8 3

PAGE 16 3

Straight Dec. 18 from webinar theto horse's discuss mouth. wild pig problems.

Straight from AgriLife teaches thefarm horse's andmouth. food safety.

Straight Ways to from help calves the horse's survive. mouth.

Straight from Producers learn thelatest horse's trends mouth. in growing spinach.

December 15, 2012 ď&#x201A;Ť

The Land & Livestock Post

2013 Prescribed Burning School dates set By KAY LEDBETTER Texas A&M AgriLife Extension

Hinnant and Charles “Butch” Taylor, superintendent of the research station at Sonora, are prescribed-burning board instructors. Other speakers include Mort Kothmann, ecosystems science and management professor, and Nick Garza, an AgriLife Research associate at Sonora. Successful completion of both courses and a passing grade on the exam will provide the educational component to begin application for either a private or commercial certiﬁed prescribed burn manager through the Texas Department of Agriculture, Hinnant said. The basic course is a prerequisite for the advanced course. For more information, call Hinnant at 979-820-1778. To register, call Cheryl Yeager at 979-845-5582 or visit www. ranchmanagement.org to download the registration form.

Merry

plan. In our cover story, we look at the importance of a business plan and why now is the time to get yours started. We also have some information about classes and programs that are coming up. This issue also has our annual Ag Directory; be sure to pull it out and hang on to it. We also have some festive features in this issue, so be sure to take a look at those as well. I hope you and yours have a wonderful Christmas and a safe and happy holiday season. Thanks for reading, and we’ll get back with you next year. ’Til next time,

December 15, 2012

s of now, my halls have not been decked, and the only holly I have is in bush form, not bough. But, like it or not, the holidays are upon us, fa-la-la-la-la. My wife has not asked me to put up lights yet, but I fear it is coming. The lights are not that big a deal, except when I get to one section of the house that has the aforementioned holly, then it gets a little prickly. But, I’m sure the next few weeks will be ﬁlled with trips in and out of the attic, putting up trees and lights, and countless trips to various stores to make sure we have every item necessary to have a perfect, relaxing Christmas. Whether at the holidays or in business, it’s important to have a



SONORA — The Academy for Ranch Management has set the 2013 dates for its annual Prescribed Burning School and Advanced Prescribed Burning School at the Texas A&M AgriLife Research-Sonora Station, located on Texas 55 between Sonora and Rocksprings. The basic prescribed burning workshop will provide information on the history of fire, weather, planning a burn, fuels and fuel moisture, and equipment. It will be Feb. 2123, according to Ray Hinnant, a Texas A&M AgriLife Research senior research associate in College Station and a workshop presenter. The fee for this school is $395. The Advanced Prescribed Burning School is set for March 7-9, also with a fee of $395. This workshop builds on the previous school, providing more information on fire behavior, fire effects and planning and conducting a prescribed burn, Hinnant said. The academy’s primary goal is training ranchers for effective rangeland management, and the focus now is on prescribed burning for rangelands, Hinnant said. Prescribed burning is a tool that can be used to manage rangeland vegetation for livestock and wildlife use, and also reduce the risk of catastrophic wildfires by removing hazard-

From the General Manager

ous fuel loads. These courses offer hands-on experience for ranch owners, as well as new landowners and absentee landowners who may be several generations removed from the ranch, Hinnant said. The Academy for Ranch Management is a program of AgriLife Research and the Texas A&M University department of ecosystems science and management in College Station. The Sonora facilities provide a teaching laboratory for hands-on experience, he said.

The Land & Livestock Post

News

Christmas

Your SOURCE for Top Quality Registered and Commercial Brangus Cattle Proud Members of

Circle Land & Cattle Co., Ltd. Bobcat Bottoms Ranch • Persimmon Creek Ranch Spring Valley Ranch • Windy Hill Ranch • Camp Cooley Ranch • Vista Ridge Ranch

located just off Hwy. 6 and OSR 1415 East OSR • Bryan, Texas 77808 Office: (979) 776-5760 • Fax: (979) 776-4818 Website: www.circlexbrangus.com Steve Densmore, Cattle Mgr., (979) 450-0819, cell • (979) 778-1055, home Chris Duewall, Operations Mgr., (979) 777-6803, cell

The Land & Livestock Post  December 15, 2012

News Cattle Trails Cow-Calf Conference in Lawton, Okla., to focus on beef herd drought recovery By KAY LEDBETTER Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service

LAWTON, Okla. — A cattle industry recovering from the drought will be the focus of the Cattle Trails Cow-Calf Conference, a joint effort between Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service and the Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service, to be held Jan. 15 in Lawton, Okla. This annual conference provides cow-calf producers the most up-to-date information on topics that influence cattle profits, said Stan Bevers, AgriLife Extension economist in Vernon. The slogan of the conference is “driving your cattle to profits,” although Bevers said the last couple of years have made it tough to generate any profit. The conference, which alternates between Texas and Oklahoma each year, will be from 8

a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Comanche County Coliseum, 920 S. Sheridan in Lawton. Registration is $25 per person and includes educational materials, a noon meal and refreshments. The keynote speaker for the event will be Garrett King, agricultural liaison for U.S. Rep. Frank Lucas from Oklahoma. Lucas is the current House Agriculture Committee chairman. King will provide a farm bill and congressional update from Lucas’ office. Improvement in the moisture situation has created some optimism among ranchers, Bevers said. But before any restocking of cattle takes place, the condition of their pastures should be assessed. Two speakers will address pasture conditions and recovery, he said. Jack LeClair, DuPont Crop Protection range and pasture specialist from Saint Jo, will cover drought recovery and invasive weeds. Bob Gillen, Western Kansas Agricultural Research Cen-

ters department head at Hays, Kan., will cover the impact of drought on the Southern Plains grassland. Traits and tools for retention and replacement of beef females will be discussed by Dr. Megan Rolf, Oklahoma Cooperative Extension beef cattle management specialist, Stillwater, Okla. Dan Hale, AgriLife Extension meat specialist in College Station, will give participants a virtual packing plant tour to close out the meeting. Industry sponsors also will have their products on display during the event. For more information on the event, go to agrisk. tamu.edu. Producers are encouraged to preregister by contacting their local AgriLife Extension county agent, their Oklahoma Cooperative Extension county educator, or the Southwest Oklahoma Area Extension office at 580-255-0546.

Some decisions to make after prolapses in cattle By GLEnn SELK Oklahoma State University

Prolapses occur occasionally in beef cows. Most prolapses occur very near the time of calving, and two distinct kinds of prolapse exist. Uterine prolapse requires immediate attention and, if treated soon, most animals have an uneventful recovery. If they subsequently rebreed and become pregnant there is no reason to cull animals suffering uterine prolapse after calving. Uterine prolapse is not likely to reoccur. Some may suffer uterine damage or infection that prevents conception and should therefore be culled. If the uterus becomes badly traumatized before treating, the animal dies from shock or hemorrhage. Vaginal prolapse, however, which occurs before calving, is a inheritable trait and is likely to reoccur each year during late pregnancy. Such animals should not be kept in the herd. The condition eventually will result in the loss of cow, calf

!"#$ &'(# !!"#

!"#$% !

See PROLAPSE, Page 5

)! 0#'1 2 3#$,('! +-45 '!#,1!., )#,6// ) ● ● ● ●

C Corrects Soil Acidity Furnishes Available Magnesium and Calcium for Plants and Animals F IIncreases the Efficiency of Fertilizers Aids the Growth of Beneficial Soil Organisms A

!"#$ &'$ ('$# #&&!)!#")*

!"#$ &'($)!* +,-.! &-/ P. O. Box 1000 Georgetown, TX 78628 Telephone 800�772�8272 txcrushstone@msn.com

Feral hog webinar set for Dec. 18 in San Antonio By Paul SchattenBerg Texas A&M AgriLife Extension

or both — and her female offspring would be predisposed to vaginal prolapse. Call your local large animal veterinarian for proper treatment or advice about culling of any beef female that has been found to have a prolapse. Research from the U.S. Department of Agriculture station at Miles City, Mont., reported that 153 calvings of 13,296 calvings from a 14-year span were associated with prolapse of the reproductive tract. Of those 153 prolapses, 124

Rural Land Loans Country Home Loans Farm & Ranch Loans Livestock Loans Equipment Loans Operating Capital Leasing T E X A S’

L A R G E S T

(81 percent) were vaginal prolapses and 29 (19 percent) were uterine prolapses. The subsequent pregnancy rate following prolapse among first calf heifers was 28 percent and the pregnancy rate among adult cows following a prolapse was only 57.9 percent. Before the spring calving season approaches, download circular E-1006, “Calving Time Management for Beef Cows and Heifers” by Oklahoma State University’s animal science department and Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service.

Bryan Credit Office

1714 E. 29th Street 979.775.0404 | 877.775.0404 CapitalFarmCredit.com

R U R A L

L E N D E R

December 15, 2012

Prolapse, from Page 13



SAN ANTONIO — A Feral Hog Community of Practice webinar on feral hog research and population management will take place from 11:15 a.m.to 2 p.m. Dec. 18 at the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service office for Bexar County. “Despite all the control efforts, feral hog numbers in the state continue to rise at an alarming rate,” said Bryan Davis, Bexar County AgriLife Extension agent. “This Community of Practice webinar will provide important information on current and future research on feral hogs, as well as address practical aspects of feral hog management.” Davis said the webinar may be viewed in the agency’s conference room, located in Suite 208 of Conroy Square, 3355 Cherry Ridge Drive, San Antonio. To watch online, register at www. extension.iastate.edu/feralhog. A Feral Hog Community of Practice is a resource area of various land-grant university

and other experts focusing on the control, adaptive management, biology, economics, disease risks and human interface with feral hogs .The webinar begins with registration and a light lunch from 11:15 a.m. to noon, followed by a presentation on feral hog research by Tyler Campbell from noon to 1 p.m. Campbell is with the Florida Field Station of the National Wildlife Research Center, part of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service. From 1-2 p.m., Davis will talk on feral hog management. “Our goal is that farmers, ranchers and other landowners will get critical information, resources and expert application of knowledge on issues related to feral hogs,” Davis said. Two continuing education units in integrated pest manageTexas A&M AgriLife Extension Service photo ment are available to attendees. Registration is $15 on or be- A webinar on current and future feral hog research and management can be seen Dec. 18 at the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension fore Dec. 17 and $20 thereafter. Service office in San Antonio. To register and for more information, contact Angel Torres at 210-467-6575 or matorres@ ag.tamu.edu.

The Land & Livestock Post

News

CASH FOR SCRAP Normangee Scrap Metal Recycling is now open (Formerly Hamilton Core Supply)

136 E Main St. ~ 936-396-2922 Buying all kinds of Metal, Aluminum Cans, Copper, Brass, Batteries, Tin, Cars, Trucks, Tractors, Machinery (Cars & Trucks Need Titles) Winter Hours: Monday - Thursday 9:00 am - 4:00 pm Closed Friday, Saturday & Sunday Call for Price

CASH FOR SCRAP

The Land & Livestock Post  December 15, 2012

News

Flighty cattle don’t necessarily have darker meat Special to The Post

The findings of a recent study conducted by researchers at Murdoch University in Perth, Australia, has challenged the long-held belief of the beef industry that flighty cattle are at a higher risk of producing dark, firm and dry meat. Working in conjunction with the department of agriculture and food and Kylagh Cattle Co., Peter McGilchrist, a post-doctorate researcher, and Stephanie Coombes, an honors student from Murdoch’s School of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, found that calm cattle were not exempt from the issue of dark cutting syndrome. Dark cutting is a complex problem caused by low muscle energy (glycogen) at the time of slaughter. Depletion of glycogen during the pre-slaughter period is controlled by many factors, one of which is the animal’s temperament. Temperament affects how agitated cattle become and how much adrenaline they release during handling and, therefore, in theory, how much muscle energy they deplete between leaving the farm and slaughter. The syndrome in beef carcasses produces meat which is dark in color, dry to eat, spoils quickly and has variable tenderness. It affected 3.6 per cent of more than 2 million carcasses graded by Meat Standards Australia in the 2011/12 financial year, costing the beef industry millions of dollars. In their study, funded by the Australian Meat Processors Corp., Coombes and McGilchrist measured the temperament of 648 commercial-lot-fed cattle using flight speed, an electronic measure of how quickly an animal exits a weighing chute. Flightier animals will exit at a faster speed while quiet animals move more slowly.

Their results showed that as flight speed increased, muscle glycogen concentration in the loin muscle at the time of slaughter also increased. This indicates that the cattle which had higher flight speeds were in fact at a lower risk of producing dark cutting carcasses in this study. Only 2 per cent of the cattle in the study were graded as dark cutters (pH greater than 5.7 and/or meat color score of four or higher) and these carcasses were distributed evenly across the range of flight speeds measured. “Even though calm cattle certainly have their production benefits, they are not exempt from the issue of dark cutting,” Coombes said. Calmer cattle have been shown to have higher growth rates and more tender meat than flighty animals. These positive benefits have been shown in many different studies around the world. The owner of Kylagh Cattle Co., Ivan Rogers, said flighty cattle posed a danger to their handlers, consistently go onto feed slower, take longer to reach slaughter weight, have a higher morbidity rate and generally perform poorer than calm cattle in the lot fed environment. “They have the potential to upset calm cattle, which is why we always try to purchase quiet, well-handled animals,” Rogers added. McGilchrist suggested that producers need to continue to cull flighty cattle and minimize variation in temperament across a herd, but also to habituate their quiet cattle to change. He said that producers and processors also need to ensure that calm cattle are treated with as much care during the preslaughter period as their more reactive counterparts.

PROTECTING JUST ABOUT EVERYTHING YOU COULD RAISE ON A FARM. Dennis Klesel, Agent 3800 Harvey Rd College Station, TX 77845 979.324.4428 dklesel@txfb-ins.com Aggie Class of ‘76

Photo by Shutterstock

Cattle with high-strung temperaments don’t necessarily have darker, drier meat, according to a study conducted in Australia by Murdoch University. “The employment of common practices like yard weaning not only provide the benefit

of improved handling ease, but also provide the opportunity to desensitize cattle to potential

TJSS Hardware

stressors, such as being mustered or drafted,” McGilchrist said.

Jet Dealer & Service For Over 30 Years

9 miles N. of Carlos 19685 FM 244, Iola, Tx 77861 (936) 394-2507 Texas Jet Systems, “Specialists in Waste Water Treatment”

Concrete leg feed trough

Concrete Products Water Troughs, Cattle Guard Beams, Septic Tanks, Storm Shelters

Cattle Guards 190 Gallon Concrete Water trough

New Pipe No Threads - No Bell Ends 1050 Ez Weld .100 Wall 1- 5/16 .115 Wall 1- 5/8 .110 Wall 1- 7/8 .110 Wall 2- 3/8 SCH-40 2- 7/8 .145 Wall 4- 1/2 SCH-40

Certiﬁed Dealer

WINCO Generator Tractor Driven PTO

Custom Cattle Guards Also ATV Cattle Guards

Cable Fencing Supplies 3/8 Guy Wire Cable, Cable Ends, Springs, Clips, Caps

We Carry Cattle Panels • Water Well Supplies Waste Water Chlorine • Corral Panels Aerobic Sewer Systems • Gates Poly & Galvanized Culverts

The Land & Livestock Post

News

 December 15, 2012

Texas A&M AgriLife Research photo by Blair Fannin

The 2011 National Beef Quality Audit revealed cattle with black hide color increased from 45.1 percent to 61.1 percent since the 2000 audit.

National beef quality audit reveals trends in beef production, industry By Blair Fannin Texas A&M AgriLife Extension

Continued expansion of branded beef programs and cattle herds with black hides are several trends identified in the 2011 National Beef Quality Audit, according to a Texas A&M AgriLife Research meat scientist. Jeff Savell, one of the audit’s principal investigators and holder of the Manny Rosenthal chair in the department of animal science at Texas A&M University, provided an overview of the audit’s findings before faculty members recently. Savell said there was a significant reduction in the amount of mud and manure on hides, he said, as the industry has maximized cattle cleanliness to reduce the threat of potential contaminants coming into plants. Branded beef programs continue to increase. “There are 6.4 programs per processing plant,” Savell said, as plants also have modified the way they sort cattle as a result of these branded beef programs.

“What used to be pretty common was to bring cattle in, harvest them, and then sort them after they had been chilled and graded some 36 to 48 hours later,” he said. “Now they are doing a lot of pre-sorting for age and source and various branded beef programs, and have specialized days of harvest for them due to the respective requirements by these programs.” Carcasses are getting heavier, Savell said, but yield grades are “about the same.” Average carcass weight for steers is 852.7 pounds and 776 pounds for heifers. Of the many national meat processing plants that were studied, Savell said harvest floor data indicated that individual electronic identification reached 20 percent compared to 3.5 percent in the 2005 audit. Also found was 15.7 percent having metal clip tags compared to 11.8 percent in 2005. “Cattle are also getting blacker,” Savell said. That applies to herds and branded beef programs contain-

See CATTLE, Page 19

The Land & Livestock Post  December 15, 2012

News

Farmers can wash their hands of food safety fears By Kathleen PhilliPs Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service

As winterapproaches and produce growers begin to plan for the next crop, now is a good time to wash away any chance of food contamination in the farming operation, according to a Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service horticulturist. “The issue of food safety on the farm is important,” said Joe Masabni, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service specialist at College Station. “We’re working to educate producers about the GAPs, or Good Agricultural Practices, and Good Handling Practices for all the issues from harvesting to packaging. “It’s part of our life nowadays. Producers have to continue to learn for any size operation. From the small farm to the big organic or inorganic 100,000-acre operation, you have to be aware of current issues and get educated and keep up with the trends of the business,” Masabni said. Masabni presented the information recently at a turf and landscape field day at Texas A&M University in College Station. He and his AgriLife Extension colleagues Juan Anciso and Ashley Gregory, both of Weslaco, developed materials about food safety training on the farm with grants from the U.S. Department of Agriculture and Texas Department of Agriculture. “It’s all about learning how employee health management practices can reduce the potential for contamination of the produce,” Masabni said. “We have been seeing more

and more food contamination issues related to fresh fruit or vegetables. So the increase in these incidents of salmonella and E. coli contamination in fruits and vegetables is what got the government interested in addressing this problem.” Initially, the team did workshops to teach people who harvest or work with produce from the field to the market. But that was not enough to educate continuously all people who are employed in the industry, Masabni said. “So we have a booklet available, and there is a companion online training program a person can use to get a certificate stating that they learned about proper practices to avoid the food safety issues,” Masabni said. The booklet, “Texas GAPs and GHPs Food Safety Training Curriculum,” is available Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service photo by Kathleen Phillips for $10 from agrilifebookstore. As winter approaches and produce growers begin to plan for the next crop, now is a good time to wash away any chance of org/. The online course can be food contamination in the farming operation, according to Joe Masabni, a Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service horticulturist. found at bit.ly/SJoKGJ. People who work in the industry can use down time to learn about good agriculture and handling practices at bit.ly/SJoKGJ. Masabni said mostly the larger fruit and vegetable growers and packing companies currently have been accessing the certificate program, but he encouraged all who work in or manage any component of the produce industry to take the time to complete the course. “I haven’t seen really an impact on the small scale or the organic farms, because it’s not mandatory yet,” Masabni said. “Yet, it’s a very easy class to take or booklet to study, and the impact is significant.” He said because of globaliza-

Which list are you on?

See SAFETY, Page 22

Get your year oﬀ to a NICE start with a Boyd Built Feeder!

Boyd Industries, Inc.

Phone: (800)611-3540 • wwwBoydBuilt.com • Fax: (940)433-8540

How to help more of your calves survive

My first recommendation on how to prevent those losses is to reduce the number of dystocias (difficult births) in your herd. The death rate of calves that require assistance is many times higher than calves born without assistance. That means even though you are a pretty good calf puller, you can reduce calf losses by decreasing the number of calves you need to pull. Heavy birth weights are the No. 1 cause of dystocia. The most effective management practice to reduce dystocia is to breed replacement heifers with bulls that have good expected progeny differences (EPDs) for dystocia, meaning they throw small calves. The second most effective management practice to reduce dystocia in replacement heifers is to grow them up with proper nutrition so they have adequate pelvic areas at calving.

Weak calf treatment

It’s important to know how to handle weak calves because, no matter how good a replacement heifer program is managed, there will be some cases of dystocia. Last April my

Calves can be warmed up by placing them in front of the heater of a pickup. Ranchers commonly warm calves by placing them under a heat lamp in the barn. A comatose calf can be warmed rapidly by being placed in a bathtub of warm water.

When to call the vet

The vitality score of the weak calf can predict which calves will improve after ingestion of colostrum and being warmed up. Dr. Otto Szenci, a friend of mine at the Szent Istvan University in Hungary, developed a system of scoring the vitality of newborn calves based on modification of the Apgar scheme used with human infants. His system is used by veterinarians throughout the world. Vitality (V) Score

Calf Muscle Tone

V-0

Stillborn

V-1

No muscle tone, head drooping, lying on side

V-2

Low muscle tone

V-3

Normal calf

Call your veterinarian immediately for all V-1 calves; they have severe acidosis (and possibly other problems such as broken bones) and need extensive treatment to survive. Stimulate respiration, give colostrum and warm up V-2 calves. Most of them will be standing and nearly normal within two hours. Those V-2 calves that have haircoats

Brazos Valley Livestock Brazos Valley Livestock Commission, Inc. Commission, Inc.

Sales: Tuesdays @ 12 Noon 6097 East Hwy. 21 • Bryan, TX

(979) 778-0904

stained with fetal fecal material (meconium) and swollen heads, tongues or legs may not respond to newborn calf treatments. Meconium staining is a sign of inutero hypoxia due to a slow, difficult birth. Continued poor muscle tone accompanied by a weak or lack of suckling reflex indicates severe acidosis. The only treatment for acidosis is intravenous administration of the proper amount of sodium bicarbonate. A veterinarian must also be called to treat V-2 calves that do not respond to newborn calf treatments within 2 hours.

of difficult births work well in beef herds, but do not completely eliminate the problem. There always will be some calves that have very slow and traumatic deliveries, leaving them acidotic and weak at birth. Use of the above described vitality scoring system will help ranchers make the correct decision on which calves they should treat and when to call their veterinarian to save a newborn calf. • Dr. Steve Wikse is a retired professor of large animal clinical sciences in the College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences at Texas A&M University.

Bottom line

December 15, 2012

Prevent weak calves

column in the Land & Livestock Post discussed care of the newborn calf. It described the three steps in getting a calf started right: establish respiration, give colostrum and warm up the calf. I’ll repeat some of its important highlights. There are many ways to stimulate a calf to breathe. Tickling the nasal passages with a piece of straw or hay is one. I like to rub a calf rigorously all over its body Dr. STEVE to really wake WIKSE it up. Suddenly squeezing the chest over the heart will stimulate the phrenic nerve and, hopefully, initiate breathing. Pouring cold water over a calf’s head or down a calf’s ear will induce a gasp reflex. Research has shown that this increases oxygen exchange in the lung and reduces acidosis. If you get desperate, stick your fingers way in back of the calf’s mouth to try to induce it to gasp in air. One of these tricks should work. If a calf is too weak to stand and nurse its mother within an hour following birth, colostrum should be milked from its dam and the calf fed two quarts in an Albers bottle with a rubber nipple. Large beef calves need three quarts of colostrum. If a calf is too weak to suckle, warm colostrum must be given with an esophageal feeder tube. Colostrum contains energy which aids shivering in a cold calf and heat is generated internally from digestion.



uestion: “I feel like I’m a pretty good calf puller, yet every year it seems I lose a few calves that I don’t think should die. Usually it’s a hard pull and I get the calf to breathe OK and they look good for a few hours to a day then crash. They get limp as a rag, listless, go to sleep and die. Now that calving season is coming up, I wonder what I’m doing wrong. I’d rather not lose those calves.” Answer: You have an interesting question, because the condition you are describing is called the “fading calf syndrome.” The underlying cause is poor respiratory function resulting in low concentrations of oxygen (hypoxia) and a buildup of carbon dioxide (acidosis) in tissues. Acidosis causes a profound inhibition of muscle tone, making calves just as you described: limp as a rag.

The Land & Livestock Post

Ask the Vet

The old saying “preventive medicine is the best medicine” applies to calves with the fading calf syndrome. Recommended management practices to reduce the incidence

texasland-homes.com Charlie Neff

Broker/Realtor®

979-828-4000

4.72 Ac, 2820 Hw y 1940, Franklin

3,650 sq. ft. custom Limestone blt home in 2010, 4, bed, 3 baths, office/den, game room, formal dining room, fireplace, live creek, barns & runs for 4H/FFA projects, FIS D; $349,900

4 Ac, Dunn R d., Bremond

Water & electric available, 35’x40’ metal barn w/loft storage, BISD; $39,900 (adjacent 21 ac available for purchase $79,000)

8.75 Ac, FM 1373, Bremond 3 sides fenced, open hay pasture, water & electric available, Bremond ISD; $34,125

20 Ac, Puckett Ra nch Rd., Franklin 75/25 wooded/open, great recreational/home site, live creek & pond, fenced on 3 sides FISD; $100,000

28 Ac, Taylor Ln., Franklin

Recreational tract with pond, elect available, FISD; $112,900

26 Ac, FM 1940, Franklin

50/50 wooded & rolling terrain, road frontage on 2 sides, several homesites, water meter, elect. avail, 100% surface rights convey; FISD; $199,000

4.68 Ac, 4454 Cedar Hills, Franklin

3,131 sq. ft., 4 bed, 3 bath custom 1 ½ story home, blt 08, fpl, granite counters, bonus room & storage upstairs, lg. 2 car garage w/storage, 85’x40’ barn w/20’x30’ insulated shop w/10’x30’ awning w/ stalls. water & elect., FISD; $393,000

94 Ac, FM 2446, Franklin

15/85 wooded/open, 914 ft. rd. frontage, pond, Barbed wire fence (needs some work), elec. at rd., Robertson Co. Water available, FISD $325,000 or $3,450/ac

62 Ac, 1114 LCR 705, Kosse

2,000 sq. ft., 3 bed, 2 bath, 30/70 wooded, improved hay pasture, pond, live creek, fenced, GISD $208,000

99.81 Ac, Hanhart Rd., Franklin

60/40 wooded/open, coastal Bermuda, new fence on front third, live creek, small pond, electricity & metered water, approx, 1,675 ft. of county rd. frontage; Franklin ISD; $365,000/$,3650 per acre

532 Ac, Little MS Cemetery Rd, Franklin to be divided into three tracts of 112, 170 & 250 Ac; lots of CR Rd. frontage; electricity, RC water, wooded & coastal, water wells, 50% new fence, 3 bed, 2 bath brick home on 170 ac tract, water wells; Franklin ISD; $3,496/ac

The Land & Livestock Post  December 15, 2012

CARS/TRUCKS

2002 KIA RIO

2006 FORD F-250 KING RANCH

$10,000 UP

$2,995-$9,995

(Previously Periko Auto Sales) $2,995 CASH ONLY!

STK#091291T 2003 NISSAN ALTIMA

$3,449 CASH ONLY!

STK#184107T 1981 CHEVY SILVERADO

$2,995 CASH ONLY! $3,995 CASH ONLY!

STK#163817TX 2004 HONDA CIVIC

D L O

Where Buying Buying Where A Car is AFunCar is Again! Fun Again! BAD CREDIT! BNAD CREDIT! O CREDIT! CREDIT! N EOXCELLENT XCELLENT EC REDIT!! REDIT !! WeC Have A Finance Program Available as ForLow Everyone! (5.99%) Interent w.a.c

STK#108676T

No Credit Application Refused

STK#B05607P 2004 CHEVY SILVERADO

DIESEL

STK#144898T 2010 CHEVY CAMARO SS

STK#220042T 2007 GMC YUKON XL

$21,483

STK#351150TT

STK#78152T

2004 CHEVROLET SILVERADO

$35,783 DIESEL

We Have A Finance Program Available For Everyone!

2007 VOLVO S/W XO70

Buy Here Pay Here

$19,283

979.696.4700 2310 Harvey Mitchell College Station, TX

STK#255702T

Open Monday-Saturday 8:30am - 7:00pm

The Land & Livestock Post  December 15, 2012

News

Looking to 2013 Now is the time to develop a business plan By RoBeRt FeaRs Special to The Post

s we near the end of 2012, it is a good time to develop business plans for the coming year. Input costs continue to increase, government farm loan programs and deficiency payments no longer exist and many parts of the country remain drought stricken. With the many uncertainties in our economy, business plans are essential to help steer our production enterprises away from failure. A business plan should be written for each separate entity. If your ranch income is derived from a cow-calf operation, a stocker program and hunting, a separate business plan needs to be written for each of these three segments. Jason Johnson, economist with Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service at Stephenville said, “One of the benefits of a business plan is that it generates a checklist for evaluating new, existing or expanded enterprises and requires careful reflection. A business can minimize unforeseen complications and is the framework for adding both perspective and depth to landowner goals.” “Due to the capital requirement and operating costs of today’s ranching operations, it is very hard to manage or grow the business without using credit,” said Jason Fuchs, vice president and branch manager of Capital Farm Credit in Temple. “Business plans with realistic numbers are very important for securing a loan. A well-prepared business plan predicts the future with good assumptions. Don’t assume next year is going to be like this year.” Johnson said a professional business plan includes six key components: • Introductory elements, • Business description, • Resource inventory, • Marketing plan, • Operating plan. • Financial plan.

Introductory elements

The introductory elements section should include goals for the particular enterprise and how it fits with the rest of the operation. A goal for a stocker program may be to add flexibility to the

Photos by Jesse Wright

Development of business plans can seem difficult but that should not deter one from using them as a management tool. Assistance is available from a number of sources such as certified public accountants, loan officers, ranch business seminars, management consultants and extension economists. ranch business. Stockers can be used to increase stocking rates during the spring and early summer for utilization of surplus grass. A stocker program also will provide an option to put additional weight on calves and background them for added market value.

Business description

A business description describes what you are going to do. For a stocker program the business description might be: Steer and culled heifer calves will be

See PLAN, Page 14

Ag Directory 2 0 1 3

A GRIC U LT U R A L BUSINESS DIRECTORY

Alternative Livestock • Animal Health • Associations & Organizations Buildings • Cattle • Computers / Software • Consultants Equine - Horses / Mules • Equipment and Supplies • Feed Livestock Services • Pest Control • Ranches & Real Estate Sheep & Goats • Swine • Working Dogs

Land and Livestock Post 2013 Ag Directory

Quality and Integrity at Prices You Can Afford.

BIGGER TRACTORS. BETTER BALES. 6D SERIES UTILITY TRACTORS • Choose from 105-140HP engines • Standard 9F/9R PowrReverser™ transmission • Independent 540/1000 rpm PTO • Choose from 2WD or MFWD

www.landandlivestockpost.com

JOHN DEERE HAY EQUIPMENT

SQUARE BALERS

ROUND BALERS

MOWER CONDITIONERS

Crop control system gives you solid, square bales for easy stacking.

Select from three different pickups: standard, MegaTooth™, and the all-new Megawide Plus™.

Choose from three conditioners: urethane-roll, steel roll or impeller.

Visit the newly redesigned

CPTRACTOR.COM BryaN, tX

979-822-7684

Navasota, tX 936-825-6575

temple, tX

254-773-9916

CameroN, tX 254-697-6551

taylor, tX

512-352-5296

M&J Quail

Phone: 936-394-3891 Address: 21489 FM 244 Iola, TX 77861 Description: M&J Flight Conditioned Quail Services supplies quality flight and weather conditioned Bobwhite quail to hunting clubs, dog trainers, preserves, game enhancement projects, and hobbyists alike.

5th R Ranch

Phone: 936-254-3766 Address: 5163 Texas Highway 84 West Timpson, TX 75975 Web: Proberts5th@aol.com

Bison Ranch

Phone: 713-436-9089 Address: PO Box 459 Pearland, TX 77588 Web: bisonranch@att.net Description: Bison breeding stock All species of Bison including European Weison, American Plains, White, DNA pure and Canadian Woods. Breeding service available. Large herd of Red Deer and Zebras. Call Richard Burns.

Mauldin Honey Farms

Phone: 214-727-4903 Address: 10912 Trestles Rd Frisco, TX 75035 Web: www.mauldinhoneyfarms.com Description: Specializing in Local Wildflower Honey in Collin, Denton, and Lamar Counties. Bee swarm removal and crop pollination services available. Bees and start-up Bee kits available for sale -pre-constructed

Walker Ag Service and J&L Equipment and parts

Phone: 254-359-4304 Address: 1316 FM 80 S. Donie, TX 75838 Description: Parts for tractors, equipment for farm & ranch and liquid fertilizers, weed spray, hay baling, dozer. All your agricultural needs!

Animal Health

Sabre Technical Services

Phone: 281-880-4886 Address: 5415 Pebble Springs Houston, TX 77066 Web: mminier@sabretechservices. com Description: We provide chlorine dioxide for water purification, facility sterilization, and odor control.

Shenandoah Vet Clinic

Phone: 979-690-7999 Address: 4210 State Highway 6 S. College Station, TX 77845 Web: kyle.bostick@shenandoahvet. com Description: Offering heard production health management for cow/calf, stocker calf, and sheep/ goat operations Individual animal and emergency services available as well. We are a mobile practice only at this time.

Associations & Organizations

Jones & Lowe Agency, Inc. Phone: 979-774-5683

Address: 725 E. Villa Maria, Suite 2100 Bryan, TX 77802 Web: www.JonesAndLoweAgency. com Description: Jones & Lowe Agency is an independent insurance provider. We can handle anything you need insured from crops, livestock, farm and ranch to your auto, home, business or health. We offer friendly, personalized, hometown-style service! Whether you come to see us

Texas Agricultural Land Trust

Phone: 210-826-0074 Address: P.O. Box 6152 San Antonio, TX 78209 Web: bfitzsimons@txaglandtrust.org Description: TALT, a non-profit organization, today has partnered with landowners to conserve 98,600 acres. Created by farmers and ranchers for farmers and ranchers, TALT is proud to play a role in conserving Texas’ legacy of wide open spaces.

Walker County Cowboy Church

Phone: 936-662-4333 Address: 1674 Highway 75 North Huntsville, TX 77320 Web: www.wccch.org Description: Western Culture Baptist Church. Member of the Texas Fellowship of Cowboy Churches. Helping meet the need of those who long for a walk with the Lord but feel out of place in traditional churches.

Watson Ranch Organic Phone: 903-925-3818 Address: P.O. Box 577

Hawkins, TX 75765 Web: info@watsonranchorganic.com Description: Watson Ranch Organic liquid fertilizer excellent for forage, legumes, fruit production, vegetables and row crops. Soil building and environmentaly safe. www.watsonranchorganic.com For local informantion on dealer call 903/925-3818

Freestone Co. Goat Breeders Association

Phone: Address: P.O. Box 1553 Fairfield, TX 75840 Web: www.freestonecountygoats.org Description: A diverse group of goat breeders serving the citizens of Anderson, Freestone, Henderson, Leon, Limestone, and Navarro Counties. Meetings are held on the 2nd Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m. Location: Freestone Co. Couthouse, Fairfield

Independent Cattlemen’s Association of Texas

Phone: 512-620-0162 Address: P.O. Box 1168 Lockhart, TX 78644 Web: www.icatexas.com Description: ICA is a grass roots organization run by and fun the benefit of the cow-calf producer. With booming voices in Austin and Washington DC we are able to help and support any ranchers needs.

Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association

Phone: 800-242-7820 Address: 1301 West Seventh Street, Suite 201 Ft. Worth, TX 76102 Web: www.texascattleraisers.org/

Description: Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association (TSCRA) is a 133-yearold trade organization and is the largest livestock association in Texas. TSCRA offers a broad range of services, including law enforcement, government and public affairs, insurance services, industry news and information on best practices, educational programs, and discounts for ranching supplies and related services to members and the industry.

Texas CattleWomen, Inc.

Phone: 979-830-8218 Address: 5130 Wonder Hill Rd. Chappell Hill, TX 77426 Web: www.texascattlewomen.org Description: Texas CattleWomen brings the best of volunteerism to the beef industry. Our mission is to support and promote the beef industry. Affiliated American National CattleWomen, we have locals across the state of Texas working to inform consumers of the importance of the industry and the constribution it makes to the economy of our nation.

Land and Livestock Post 2013 Ag Directory

Alternative Livestock

Texas Rural Mediation Services

Phone: 866-329-3522 Address: P.O. Box 10536 Lubbock, TX 79408 Web: www.co.lubbock.tx.us Description: TRMS provides low-cost mediation services to Rural Texans and anyone affected by actions of the USDA for disputes ranging from adverse decisions by USDA agencies to financial conflicts with creditors, and more.

www.landandlivestockpost.com

1800 N. Texas Ave., Bryan 979.778.6000 www.producerscooperative.com

Your Agriculture Partner Since 1943 Livestock Feeds • Seed Fertilizer • Fuel/Lubricants A full line of equipment & supplies for the Farm/Ranch

Land and Livestock Post 2013 Ag Directory

USDA Farm Service Agency

Phone: 979-680-5213 Address: PO Box 2900 College Station, TX 77841 Web: brenda.carlson@tx.usda.gov Description: Federal farm programs administered through the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) stabilize farm income, assist agriculture producers to conserve natural resources, provide credit for farm ownership and operation and help producers recover from the effects of natural disasters.

Wild Horse Foundation

Phone: 979-828-3927 Address: P.O. Box 692 Franklin, TX 77856 Web: www.wildhorsefoundation.org Description: Equine Rescue and Abuse, Disaster Preparedness for Livestock, Instuctors/Facilitators CERT/Livestock Programs. Wild Horse Specialist. Education and Prevention programs. 501 c3 nonprofit organization

Buildings

Buddy Micklitz

Phone: 979-779-0420 Address: P.O. BOX 1497 Bryan, TX 77806 Web: micklitz@verizon.net Description: Residential - Farm Ranch. Custom designed barns and buildings. All metal construction, wood framed, or combination structures. Horse stalls, equipment sheds, hay barns, barndominiums, and recreational buildings. Call for appointment.

www.landandlivestockpost.com

Craft Concrete Construction

Phone: 979-257-6484 Address: 11745 Carter Ln. Bryan, TX 77803 Web: lcrafto@live.com Description: Slabs, walks, walls, block, stone, drainage. Quality isn’t paid for, you expect it. Give us a call for prompt and professional service.

Sunset Distributing

Phone: 505-471-0034 Address: 1386 Vegas Verdes Santa Fe, NM 87507 Web: buyersol@aol.com Description: Metal Buildings, Farm Equipment

Vance Welding and Fabrication

Phone: 936-348-1247 Address: 24305 OSR Madisonville, TX 77864 Web: www.VanceWelding.com Description: Full service welding as well as all types of metal structures, cattle guards, and hay rings.

Cattle

A&J Angus Farm

Phone: 940-668-6045 Address: 1013 CR 322 Vallet View, TX 76272 Web: www.ajangus.com Description: Breeding age bulls tested on the ranch in ample pastures. They are fed a ration, hand fed twice daily, that insures growth, but not overly fat. Also, open and bred heifers AI sired our of AI sired cows.

AAA Simmentals

Phone: 281-467-0382 Address: 5103 Barkaloo Baytown, TX 77521 Web: www.aaasimmentals.com Description: We have registered

Simmental Cattle. Black, red, heifers, cows, bulls, some show steers!

ABC Consulting

Phone: 575-483-0522 Address: Magic Valley Springer, NM 87747 Web: http://ABigfootCarbon.com Description: Real reasonable priced bred cows, pairs, replacements, feeders and stockers off grass available all the time. Soil Carbon and GHG Offset projects paid to farmers and renchers on rangeland, timber and min till farm acres.

AW Ranch

Phone: 713-725-4505 Address: 37872 FM 2979 Hempstead, TX 77802 Web: www.awranch.net Description: Some of the best breed in US- Cattle, Horses - Show Calves and Racing Horses. Working Dogs. Small Ranch - Special Care to animals

B&B Cattle Company

Phone: 979-220-6043 Address: 10220 FM 2289 Normangee, TX 77871 Web: www.NeedABull.com Description: Custom bull & heifer development programs and a calfraiser program to assist today’s cattle producer. We realize how slim the profit margin can be in the cattle industry and we work to provide economical solutions for producing the best genetics.

Center Ranch

Phone: 903-536-7090 Address: 3582 FM 811 Centerville, TX 75833 Web: centerranch@hotmail.com Description: Cattle, Horse, and Hay operation. We have a heifer development program to produce replacement females. Bred and open heifers for sale year round. Extensive hay operation for high quality horse hay. Also raise and train cutting horses.

Champion Ranch Phone: 903-536-7103 Address: P.O. BOX 469 Centerville, TX 75833

Circle X Land & Cattle

Phone: 979-450-0819 Address: Po Box 4747 Bryan, TX 77805 Web: circlexbrangus.cm Description: Circle X can meet all of your needs for commercial and registered Brangus cattle. We have quality show heifer prospects for your junior exhibitor, replacement heifers to build your herd and superior bulls to improve the performance and profitability of your operation.

Web: www.doublemmranch.com Description: For Sale: Registered Texas Longhorns, Pairs, Bred Cows & heifers. Bull Prospects & Ropers For Sale at all times

Web: www.GrandStarRanch.com Description: We raise and sell pure bred Santa Gertrudis Cattle. Replacement and Show Heifers are generally available.

Dutton Simmentals

H4 Farms

Phone: 936-449-4612 Address: 6583 N FM 1486 Rd. Montgomery, TX 77356 Web: jadutton32@cs.com Description: Fullblood Fleckvieh Simmental seedstock. Polled and horned bulls, open & bred heifers and mature cows for sale at all times.

Phone: 361-935-1208 Address: 5618 Midway Rd Inez, TX 77968 Web: hoodjrw@aol.com Description: Purebred, Star 5, Commercial Santa Gertrudis cattle. Our herd is designed to meet both the purebred and commercial cattleman’s needs.

EAST TEXAS SEED COMPANY

Hudec Cattle

Phone: 800-888-1371 Address: P.O. BOX 569 Tyler, TX 75710 Web: seeds@easttexasseedcompany. com Description: East Texas Seed Company, Tyler, Texas was formed in 1951. Celebrating our sixtieth anniversary in 2011, the company has served the agricultural seed needs of a region as diversified in farming and ranching as any in our nation. Call us today!

Foltin Farms

Phone: 281-787-4347 Address: J.A. “Tony” Foltin Hockley, TX 77447 Web: tonyfoltin@gmail.com Description: Red Angus X Beefmaster (polled) calves for sale. Goats fpr sale. Donkeys for sale. Sheep for sale ( when available).

Grand Star Ranch Phone: 936-894-3017 Address: 7506 CR 204 Plantersville, TX 77363

Phone: 979-263-5829 Address: 1442 C R 204 Weimar, TX 78962 Web: jhudec@cvtv.net Description: Limousin and Angus Bulls and Heifers. Over 30 years of A.I. Very Gentle. Also show steers and heifers. 979 263-5829

J&M Farm Miniature Herefords

Dos XX’’s Cattle Company

Phone: 979-277-2295 Address: 18970 Bosse Road Washington, TX 77880 Web: dosxx@netzero.com Description: Raise and produce Registered Red Brangus Cattle and miniature horses.

Double M Ranch Phone: 361-550-9784 Address: P.O. Box 4733 Victoria, TX 77903

Phone: 512-253-0011 Address: 1955 CR 106 Paige, TX 78659 Web: www.kcbeefmasters.com Description: Beefmaster seed stock operation. Heifers, bulls, open cows and bred cows available.

L&L Cattle

Phone: 936-537-5462 Address: 13093 Browder-Traylor Rd. Willis, TX 77378 Web: byronleeinsurance@hotmail. com Description: Fall born club calves - A-I sires; also purebred Charolais bulls and heifers

Lazy L Cattle Company Phone: 940-362-4519 Address: HC 75, Box 495 Eliasville, TX 76481 Web: jerryligon@hotmail.com Description: We raise registered Black Brangus cattle.

Lazy W Farms

Phone: 936-443-9205 Address: 1411 Hobo Lane Madisonville, TX 77864 Web: gertngauers@yahoo.com Description: Quality Pinzgauer and Santa Gertrudis breeding bulls and females and F-1 crosses

Phone: 281-252-5080 Address: 29909 Roberts Trail Magnolia, TX 77354 Web: www.jandmfarmmini atureherefords.com Description: We Bred, Raise, Show and Sell Registered Miniature Hereford Cattle. Call us today or visit or website.

Lone Star Longhorns

JC Longhorns

Phone: 361-648-6249 Address: 323 Crawford Dr. Victoria, TX 77904 Web: charabis@hotmail.com Description: For Sale: Registered Texas Longhorn cattle for sale at all times.

Phone: 903-536-3721 Address: P.O. Box 1432 Centerville, TX 75833 Web: www.lonestarlonghorns.net Description: Lone Star Longhorns is a breeder of quality registered TX Longhorns. Breeding for horn, color, conformation and temperment. Cows, bred cows, cow calf pairs, heifers, bulls and steers. Stop by and visit us.

Do you have your Boyd Built Feeder? • Fully assembled and ready to use. • Made of heavy-duty materials to withstand the toughest conditions. • Used all over the Southwest for over 40 years. • 1,500 lb. to 60,000 lb. capacity. • Feeders to meet all your feeding needs. • Available at:

Now with Catwalks!

Dolliver Ranch

Phone: 979-229-7108 Address: 6121 Hwy 21 E Caldwell, TX 77836 Web: daviddolliver@hughes.net Description: Gentle Registered Brahman and Brangus Cattle

KC Beefmasters

Come See Us at the Producers Co-op Expo, December 8th!

Boyd Industries, Inc.

Phone: (800) 611-3540

Fax: (940)-433-8540

www.BoydBuilt.com

Phone: 979-589-1204 Address: 8691 Old Reliance Road Bryan, TX 77808 Web: jfmarshranch.com Description: Polled and Horned Herefords Replacement Heifers/ Recips Show Cattle

Milano Livestock Exchange

Phone: 512-455-7631 Address: HWY 79 E. Milano, TX 76556 Web: milanolivestock@msn.com Description: Livestock Market Sale every Tuesday 10:30 a.m.

No Worries Cattle Co.

Phone: 936-394-3811 Address: 14679 FM 244 Iola, TX 77861 Web: parrisdm@windstream.net Description: LowLine Angus Fullblood Cattle

Nuestra Tierra Ranch

Phone: 713-627-0408 Address: 3802 Piping Rock Ln Houston, TX 77027 Web: filfam@att.net Description: The Place for Quality Cattle

Rimrock Cattle Company

Phone: 325-660-7030 Address: 518 Braune Rd. Abilene, TX 79603 Web: www.rimrockcattle.com Description: Forage Finished beef, conventional feeding, grow yard, commercial cattle, carcass ultrasound

Rockin’ M Cattle Company

Rose Hill Ranch

Phone: 281-375-8836 Address: P.O. Box 235 Pattison, TX 77466 Web: ww.rosehillgerts.com Description: Pure bred Santa Gertrudis cattle for sale. Hero sires, show heifers, replacement females. Top quality - excellent genetics, performance guaranteed.

Seiter Ranch

Phone: 979-690-9345 Address: 3940 Parrot Cove College Station, TX 77845 Web: seiterranch@yahoo.com Description: Brangus, Hereford cross calves. Black Baldy steers and heifers. Ranch at Keith, TX

Schuler Family Limousin

Phone: 936-520-4926 Address: 20615 Ginger Meadow Lane Cleveland, TX 77328 Web: alanschuler@sbcglobal.net Description: Seedstock producer of registered Limousin cattle selling show heifer prospects and breeding bulls. Web site: www. schulerfamilylimousin.com

Solid Rock Ranch

Phone: 979-777-7571 Address: PO Box 1291 Franklin, TX 77856 Web: www.solidrockranch.com Description: Registered Angus. Focused on breeding functional and attractive females adapted to our environment and the bulls that will produce them. Balanced trait

Texas Beef Council

Phone: 512-335-2333 Address: 8708 Ranch Road 620 North Austin, TX 78726 Web: www.texasbeef.org Description: Texas Beef Checkoff Program

Texas Shorthorn Association

Phone: 903-626-4365 Address: P O Box 215 Jewett, TX 75846 Web: txshorthorns@earthlink.net Description: TX Shorthorn Association keeps an up-to-date list of cattle for sale. Also has a free membership directory available to interested cattlemen

Computers / Software

CattleMax software by Cattlesoft, Inc.

Phone: 877-454-2697 Address: P.O. Box 2647 College Station, TX 77841 Web: www.cattlemax.com Description: CattleMax is a rancher-friendly software that reduces time spent on record keeping and improves organization. Comprehensive reporting features help make better management decisions.

Consultants

Adams Land Improvement Contractor

Phone: 936-522-6098 Address: P.O. BOX 1186 New Waverly, TX 77358 Web: www.adamslandimprovement. com Description: Complete Land Improvement. Land clearing, erosion control, soil conservation, lake and pond design and construction, earth moving.

Ag Southwest, LLC

Phone: 866-936-2767 Address: 3116 Wedgescale Pass Leander, TX 78641 Web: agsouthwest.com Description: Independent crop insurance agency. Our agency offers different types of insurance for farmers and ranchers all across the nation. We stay on top of the latest changes in the crop insurance industry, while educating our customers about their insurance policies and options.

Agricultural Insurance Agency, Inc.

Phone: 979-776-2697 Address: PO Box 4287 Bryan, TX 77805 Web: lspurcell@suddenlink.net Description: We offer insurance coverage for agribusiness and related operations. Specializing in Auction barns, farms and ranches, animal mortality, cargo, bonds- both commercial and personal, lines with competing rates.

Fly Z Ranch

Phone: 512-446-2921 Address: 647 Briar Lane Rockdale, TX 76567 Web: flyranch@sbcglobal.net Description: Specializing in the young Horse

Potter Enterprises

Phone: 979-690-6951 Address: 5609 Straub Rd College Station, TX 77845 Web: gdpotter@startel.net Description: Equine Consulting, Potter Farm

RJ Consultant Services

Phone: 512-868-9306 Address: 104 Orange Cove Georgetown, TX 78633 Web: rjconsultantservices@earthlink. net Description: Freelance Writing, 1.d.1 Appraisals, Pesticide Claims Investigation, Ranch Management Plans, Municipal Wildlife Management

Scasta Partnerships

Phone: 979-589-2328 Address: 9221 Box-S Ranch Rd. Bryan, TX 77808 Description: Custom chemical brush control services. Pastures, fencelines & right-of-ways. Individual plant treatment- Basal, foliar, cut-stump. Small acreage broadcast application.

Equine - Horses - Mules B G Ranch

Phone: 512-446-0979 Address: 1767 S Hwy 77 Rockdale, TX 76567 Web: bobgraham69@yahoo.com Description: B G Ranch specializes in Boarding, Training Barrel Horses, and Sales.

MAGLIME • Maglime is an Agricultural Limestone Material containing about 90% Calcium Carbonate (CaCO3) and 8% Magnesium Carbonate (MgCO3) and about 2% Acid Insoluble. • Over 4,000,000 tons of Maglime have been spread on the soils of East Texas and Louisiana. Maglime has been used to neutralize soil acidity and to provide calcium and magnesium to the plants and animals which live on the land. • Many farmers and ranchers realize they need agricultural limestone when applied fertilizer is less effective than in the past. • Soils in East Texas and Louisiana become acid for three reasons. High amounts of rain leach calcium and magnesium out of the soil. Commercial fertilizers are typically acidic compounds. The removal of crops and animals from the land take calcium and magnesium with them as they go to market.

Blue Diamond Ranch

• When Maglime is applied to an acid soil, calcium, magnesium, nitrogen, phosphorous, and potash all become more available to the plants as the soil acidity is reduced.

Buddy Micklitz

• Maglime is sold in two grades of fineness, premium and super fine. Studies rate the super fine as 100 percent effective while the premium is rated at about 65 percent effective. Some people find that the better handling, spreading, and storage characteristics of the premium grind offset its lower efficiency.

Phone: 979-589-1463 Address: 2090 Sand Creek Rd. Bryan, TX 77808 Web: www.bluediamondranch.com Description: Offers Western performance Paint and Quarter horses for cutting, reining and roping. Stallin service by the industry’s leading sires- homozygous black tobianos and roan tobianos. Phone: 979-779-0420 Address: P.O. BOX 1497 Bryan, TX 77806 Web: micklitz@verizon.net Description: Residential - Farm Ranch. Quality horse fencing (net, field, slick and barb wire) Cable, wood and privacy fences. Pipe fence, custom pens, stalls, round pens, paddocks and entrances. New construction or repair. Call for appointment.

4.74 Ranch

Phone: 979-589-3272 Address: 7477 Dick Elliott Rd. Bryan, TX 77808 Web: charityjudah@henryjudah.com Description: New- small, private horse boarding facility. Full board available. Exceptional care of facilities and attention to detail.

Deep Meadow Equine Services, Inc.

Phone: 281-290-8884 Address: 24415 Deep Meadow Tomball, TX 77375 Web: www.dmesi.com Description: Equine Physical Therapy and Wellness Center, providing fitness training, Vet prescribed treatments and layups using the latest techniques including a water treadmill.

• Much of the land on which Maglime is spread is used to grow forage for breeder cows. The fact that milk is a rich source of calcium is widely known. A rapidly growing calf demands a lot of calcium because its bones are primarily composed of calcium and phosphorus. A fully grown 1,200 pound calf has about 200 pounds of bone

www.landandlivestockpost.com

Phone: 979-589-1101 Address: P.O. Box 4550 Bryan, TX 77805 Web: milleco1@cs.com Description: Registered Grey Brahman seed stock.

siresutilized in AI and ET program and as herd sires. Bulls for sale

Land and Livestock Post 2013 Ag Directory

Marsh Ranch

• Legumes, such as clovers, soybeans, and alfalfa are a unique group of plants that can transform atmospheric nitrogen into a source of plant food. Legumes typically will grow best in neutral or alkaline soil that is rich in calcium. Where soils are acidic and deficient in calcium and magnesium, legumes typically show a dramatic response to the application of Maglime. • If your soils are acidic or are deficient in calcium or magnesium, give us a call at 800 772 8272. We will be glad to put you in touch with a Maglime distributor in your local area or provide more information regarding Maglime.

TEXAS CRUSHED STONE 800-772-8272

Land and Livestock Post 2013 Ag Directory

Dos XX’s Miniature Horses

Phone: 936-878-2578 Address: 18970 Bosse Road Washington, TX 77880 Web: dosxxminis@netzero.com Description: Raise and breed registered miniature horses for show, sale and pets

Farriershop

Phone: 800-560-6217 Address: 8982 FM 391 Hearne, TX 77859 Web: Farriershop@wildblue.net Description: Horseshoeing & trimming service. We have a shop to bring your cripple or special needs animals & we provide an in field service for routine maintance. Give us a try!

HR Leather Shop

Phone: 936-355-8222 Address: P.O. Box 1010 New Waverly, TX 77358 Web: moniebell@hotmail.com Description: Saddle Repair shop and custom made cowboy gear. We make chaps, chinks, tack and can make or repair most anything leather

Reined Rope Horse.com

Phone: 254-592-7860 Address: 315 FM 2303 Stephenville, TX 76401 Web: www.reinedropehorse.com Description: Camps/Clinic/Training/ Lessons - reining is the foundation of our program. We offer training in several disciplines including reining, cowhorse, and roping. Kids camps and clinics throughout the year - our place or yours. Finished horses for sale.

www.landandlivestockpost.com

Rocking L&D

Phone: 979-218-5285 Address: 1601 Valley View Dr College Station, TX 77840 Web: rockinglandd.com Description: 3yr old double reg. tenn walker stallion for stud service! reg. mares $500 grade mares $300

Shiloh Ranch

Phone: 979-451-1550 Address: Box 429 Chappell Hill, TX 77426 Web: www.Shilohranchtexas.com Description: 10 very nice registered quarter horses,paints and grade horses,brood mares,stallions very reasonable-selling out near future

Silver Star Ranch

Phone: 713-254-7156 Address: P.O. Box 1241 New Ulm, TX 78950 Web: Wayne@silver-star-ranch.com Description: Horse Breeder Reining, Cow, and Cutting

Sunshine Stables

Phone: 806-570-8904 Address: 10846 FM 2589 Dumas, TX 79029 Web: www.sunshinestablestx.com Description: HORSE MOTEL - Indoor and Outdoor stalls, RV Hookups, Horses for sale or lease, Underwood horse medicine, Authorized PJ Trailer Dealer

Equipment and Supplies ABI Irrigation, Inc.

Phone: 979-530-8764 Address: 18970 Bosse Road Washington, TX 77880 Web: www.abi-irrigation.com Description: Manufacture and sell the ABI Hard Hose Traveling

irrigation systems and pumps.

Alexander Livestock

Phone: 512-756-0593 Address: 18431 FM 963 Lampasas, TX 76550 Web: www.alexander-livestock.com Description: Squeeze Chutes, Tubs, Alleys and Scales, Portable and Staionary

allstar towing

Phone: 979-739-9899 Address: 5149 FM 1179 Bryan, TX 77808 Web: allstartowingbcs@yahoo.com Description: Full service towing service.we move trucks stranded with a trailer attached with no problem.we also provide hot shot truck service.

Boyd Industries, Inc.

Phone: 800-611-3540 Address: P.O. Box 315 Boyd, TX 76023 Web: www.BoydBuilt.com Description: Manufacturer of all steel bulk feeders, creep feeders, feed troughs, hay racks, round bale feeders, horse feeders portable feeders and other custom feeding equipment since 1961. Available at most local feed stores and livestock equipment suppliers.

Capps Cowboy Leatherwerx

Phone: 281-253-2837 Address: 5950 CR 331 Plantersville, TX 77363 Web: glenn.capps37@gmail.com Description: Saddle & tack repair. Custom leather items built.

French Trading Company

Phone: 28852-8453 Address: 19550 Ramblewood Dr Humble, TX 77338 Web: www.frenchtradingcompany. com Description: Aromatic Red CedarBuilding and Fencing Supplies. Posts, Stays, rails, guard rails, log siding, house logs, lumber and furniture wood. Various sizes and at discount prices shipped directly to your site.

Description: Supplier of Japanese Mini Trucks. Great alternative to conventional ATV’s and side by side UTV’s. Ride in comfort in an enclosed cab with heat and A/C with a full 4’ x 6’ bed, 4x4 and a quiet 45hp gas engine. Many custom options available.

Rockin L Feeders

Phone: 979-578-2589 Address: 1293 CR 313 Louise, TX 77455 Web: www.rockinlfeeders.com

Springs Construction Inc. Phone: 512-357-6734 Address: P.O. Box 88 Staples, TX 78670 Description: Grain Storage Bins, Bulk Feed Tanks, Grain Conveyers, Feed Mill Equipment.

Sullivan Surplus

Phone: 713-906-1662 Address: PO Box 266873 Houston, TX 77207 Description: Mig Wire SS 308-309316. 28 lb. Spools, $3 per lb 44 lb Spools Flux Core $1 per lb.

Sunshine Trailers

Phone: 806-570-8904 Address: 10846 FM 2589 Dumas, TX 79029 Web: pjjenkins@hotmail.com Description: Authorized PJ Trailer Dealer, dump trailers, utility trailers, flatbed, car haulers, custom orders

Feed

Anthony Lott

Phone: 979-218-3747 Address: 302 Wheelock Hearne, TX 77859

Description: Good Clean Coastal hay, net wrapped w/ JD baler. 5 X 5.5’ bales. 979-218-3747 days or 979279-3513 after 7 pm

Brazos Feed & Supply Inc.

Phone: 979-779-1776 Address: 1200 S. Texas Ave. Bryan, TX 77803 Web: brazosfeed@yahoo.com Description: We handle a complete line of Purina Feeds, hay, baby chicks, shavings, wooden windmills, and much more. We do special orders on Purina and Acco Feeds. Give us a call, come by and see us.

Burkhead Ranch

Phone: 903-684-3284 Address: 5357 county road 4640 DeKalb, TX 75559 Web: bobburkhead@msn.com Description: Cows and calves, raise Netbio feeder calves. Grow hay and baleage.

Coufal-Prater Country Store

Phone: 936-825-6575 Address: 9819 Hwy 6 Navasota, TX 77868 Web: www.cpequipment.com Description: Animal Health, Feed, Tack, FarM & Ranch Supplies, Clothing, Lawn & Garden Supplies... everything for enjoying the outdoors.

East Texas Seed Company Phone: 903-597-6637 Address: P.O. Box 569 Tyler, TX 75710 Web: www.eastexasseedcompany. com Description: All Seeds For Planting: Forage, Turf, and Wildlife. Perennial

and Annual. Call for information and available dealer in your area.

Ely Family Partnership

Phone: 979-219-2919 Address: P.O. Box 177 Hearne, TX 77859 Description: Family farming/ ranching operation offering quality round or square bale hay on a yearround basis. Square bales baled w/ bale-band-it system grouping 21 bales in one bundle. Easy loading/ handling.

Fairlie Seed Company

Phone: 903-886-2362 Address: 5383 FM 1563 Commerce, TX 75428 Web: www.ballclover.com Description: Ball Clover seed for sale. Cleaned,scarrified,innoculated crop.

JB Farm and Ranch

Phone: 512-630-1588 Address: P.O. Box 341 Calvert, TX 77837 Web: jbfarmandranch@yahoo.com Description: Hay sales. Coastal and Jiggs Hay. Tifton soon. All hay is net wrapped, fertilized either pickup or delivery in the Brazos Valley area. Square bales by request and pre-order. Pre-ordered round bales picked in the field and quantity loads discounted.

Lonestar Ag

Phone: 979-220-3303 Address: Bryan, TX 77807 Web: msuehs@abceq.com Description: Mobile vertical feed mixing service,mix round and large square bales with ddg,corn,minerals,l imiters,bovatec etc.For a Total Mixed Ration to meet your specific feeding need’s

Free Consultation on Federally Subsidized PRF Drought Insurance Speciﬁcally Designed For Livestock and Hay Producers

Lithia Dodge, Chrysler, Jeep

Phone: 979-774-8112 Address: 301 N Earl Rudder FWY Bryan, TX 77802 Web: barbaraparsons@lithia.com Description: There is no better time to buy than now with employee pricing plus. Give me a call today and save. Farm Bureau members receive an additional $500 rebate.

Lonestar Ag

Phone: 979-220-3303 Address: 5369 Caroline Bryan, TX 77807 Web: msuehs@abceq.com Description: Aer-Way Pasture Renovation, Round Bale Hauling

MCB West Sharpening

Phone: 979-567-9538 Address: P.O. BOX 210 Chriesman, TX 77838 Web: HdoubleH@txcyber.com Description: Sharpening clipper blades, knives, tools, scissors & more. Cipper Repair. Call for conveninet drop off points- call for schedule or information.

North Texas Mini Trucks Phone: 940-367-1173 Address: P.O. Box 315 Boyd, TX 76023 Web: www.NorthTexasMiniTrucks. com

• Primarily insures against drought, covers grazingland and perennial hay production • Producers can insure acres that are important to your operation, not all acres are required • Highly subsidized by USDA making it affordable to you and creating a HIGH RATE of Return • All rainfall averages based on 63 years of NOAA & National Weather Service data

“We want to thank our customers for their business and wish you all a happy and safe holiday season!”

Ag Southwest

We also sell Crop Insurance

Ag Southwest Crop & Ranch Insurance 866-936-2767 www.agsouthwest.com

Phone: 979-828-3516 Address: 168 Wheelock St. Franklin, TX 77856 Web: lorenhelton@yahoo.com Description: Complete farm/ranch supply store.

Thomas Moore Feed & Supply

Phone: 936-825-4912 Address: 7963 Allen Farm Rd. Navasota, TX 77868 Web: moorefeed.com Description: Thomas Moore Feed provides bulk and bag feed. Three locations: Bryan, South College Station and Hempstead.

Parker Seed

Phone: 830-456-1869 Address: 12235 Hwy 87 W La Vernia, TX 78121 Web: www.pkseed.com Description: Specializing in Hay & Pasture Seed. Texas Forage Legumes: Clover, medic, vetch. Ryegrass, bermudagrass, wildlife, field seed.

Producers Cooperative

Wayne Berrier

Phone: 936-348-5288 Address: 10155 Greenbriar Rd. Madisonville, TX 77864 Web: dberrier@dpisd.org Description: Hay production

Livestock Services

3JS Custom Hay & Dozer

Phone: 512-253-6112 Address: 2523 CR 103 Paige, TX 78654 Description: For all your dozing needs. Tanks, Brush, Rootplowing, Fence Rows, hay baling & planting needs. Serving Lee and surrounding counties

Brazos Valley Livestock Commission

Phone: 979-778-0904 Address: 6097 East SH 21 Bryan , TX 77808 Web: brazosvalleypat@yahoo.com Description: Weekly livestock sales 12:00 noon Tuesdays

Brushline Dozer Works

Phone: 979-733-4342 Address: P.O. Box 44 Columbus, TX 78934 Web: brushlinedozerworks@hotmail. com Description: Dozer Work & Trucking, Roads, Stock Ponds, Clearing, Pads, Demolition, Shredding, Sand, Gravel, Topsoil, Fill, Cattlegaurds, Culverts, Bridges, Fences, Entrances, Metal Buildings, Hay Bailing & Sales

Phone: 979-779-0420 Address: P.O. BOX 1497 BRYAN, TX 77806 Web: micklitz@verizon.net Description: Residential-farm-ranch horse, barb wire, net wire, and field fencing. 8’Game fence, cable, wood and privacy fences. Pipe fence, custom pens and entrances. Posts drilled or driven. New construction or fence repair. Call 979.218.8674 For appointment.

Caldwell Livestock Commission Co.

Phone: 979-567-4119 Address: P.O. Box 542 Caldwell, TX 77836 Web: juliea1115@aol.com Description: Cattle Sale every Wednesday at 1:00 pm

Capps Cowboy Leatherwerx

Phone: 936-348-4580 Address: 1174 Musgrove Road Normangee, TX 77871 Description: Saddle Shop

Fine Time Designs

Phone: 979-204-4303 Address: PO Box 11607 College Station, TX 77842 Web: www.finetimedesigns.com Description: Fine Time Designs, owned by Fiona Lockhart,’96, of College Station, Texas. A full service Graphic Design Company, specializing in advertising for the livestock industry. Print and Web Media, Livestock Photography, Sale Catalogs, and Sale Work.

HR Leather Shop

Phone: 936-355-8222 Address: PO Box 1010 New Waverly, TX 77358 Description: Saddle repair and custome made cowboy horse gear. Unique western gifts, rope baskets, picture frames, albums, chinks, chaps.

MCB West Sharpening Service

Phone: 979-567-9538 Address: P. O. Box 210 Chriesman, TX 77838 Web: HDoubleH@txcyber.com Description: Clipper blade sharpening & clipper repair; also sharpening knives, scissors, planer knives, ice shaver blades, tools, etc. Convenient drop off points at Producers Coop in Bryan & Close Quarters Feed in Wellborn. Call for schedule or information.

Rafter P Agriservices

Phone: 979-777-7700 Address: P.O. Box 4706 Bryan, TX 77805 Web: rafterpaag@aol.com Description: We are a farm and ranch services provider. A list of our services include: Disking Shredding No-till drill Hay baling (round and square) Grass sprigging Please feel free to call 979-777-7700. Thanks

Rimrock Ultrasound

Phone: 325-660-4730 Address: 3609 Elaine Dr. Bryan, TX 77808 Web: www.rimrockcattle.com Description: Carcass Ultrasound for seed stock, commercial (feedlot and replacement heifers)

Switzer Auction Service

Phone: 979-865-5468 Address: P.O. Box 333 Bellville, TX 77418 Web: www.switzerauction.net Description: SwitzerAuction Services specializes in equipment, livestock, and real estate. Offering Bilingual auctioneering capabilities and currently licensed as an auctioneer in the states of Texas and Louisiana.

Taylor Harris Insurance Services Phone: 979-774-4330 Address: 6811 Honeysuckle Lane Bryan, TX 77808 Web: www.taylorharris.com Description: Equine and Farm and Ranch Insurance. Mortality, Major Medical, Surgical, Liability, Care, Custody and Control

TCR Genetics

available. Farmer mac programs with competitive rates and terms available.

Ingram Property Manangement

Phone: 254-799-2932 Address: 2155 Buster Chatham Rd. Waco, TX 76705 Web: gary_ngrm@yahoo.com

Kelumac Christmas Tree Farm Bed and Breakfast

Phone: 979-279-3931 Address: 10379 Taylor Road Bryan, TX 77808 Web: www.kelumac.com Description: Christmas Trees for Sale Starting Saturday & Sunday after Thanksgiving. Bed and Breakfast Accomodations for a quiet weekend retreat

Kuper Ranch Sales

Phone: 402-245-7076 Address: P.O. box 186 Falls City, NE 68355 Web: twitt@sentco.net Description: Bonded livestock dealer

Phone: 210-287-3776 Address: 1201 S. Main, Suite 101 Boerne, TX 78006 Web: steven.bennett@sothebysrealty. com Description: Welcome to Kuper Ranch Sales, Kuper Sotheby’s International Realty. Whether you’re looking for fertile agricultural land, prime hunting tracts, or simply a peaceful retreat from the city, we have the expertise to help you find the right property at the right price. Let us help you find your dream farm, ranch, or hunting property in the heart of Texas!

Wes Hillin Trucking

Lone Star Ag Credit

Phone: 361-946-1103 Address: 9545 Paula Dr. Corpus Christi, TX 78410 Web: joepaschal@yahoo.com Description: TCR Genetics is a full service AI company located in South Texas specializing in Bos indicus influenced breeds.

TW Cattle Co

Phone: 254-366-3941 Address: 682 Coopers Crossing Rd China Spring, TX 76633 Web: www.weshillintrucking.com Description: Wes Hillin Trucking specializes in hauling cattle to, from and through the Central Texas area.

Pest Control

Texas AgriLife Extension Service Ag. & Environmental Safety

Phone: 979-845-3849 Address: P.O. Drawer FS College Station, TX 77841 Web: www-aes.tamu.edu Description: Join our State approved trainers for exam preparation in the Pesticide Industry. We have 4 courses for the Ornamental and Turf/Lawn and Ornamental licenses and 8 hour trainings for Pest, Termite and General Pesticide licenses. We also have a 24 hour training for Pesticide Apprentice licensees. For more information, call 979-8451099 or see or website at wwwaes.tamu.edu or register online at http://agrilifevents.tamu.edu

Under Texas Skies Predator Control

Phone: 254-933-7045 Address: P.O. box 1542 Belton, TX 76513 Web: coyotehunts@SBCGlobal.net Description: Under Texas Skies will control your coyote and hog problems at no cost ot liability to the landowner.

Ranches & Real Estate Funding Edge

Phone: 210-249-2111 Address: 234 w. Bandera Rd. #313 Boerne, TX 78006 Web: www.fundingedge.com Description: Assist with Commercial Financing for land, ranches, farms and most commercial properties. Full doc and private money

Phone: 214-668-9961 Address: 1612 Summit Ave. Fort Worth, TX 76102 Web: www.lonestaragcredit.com

Ranches PLUS Realty LLC

Phone: 210-559-1675 Address: PO Box 130 Falls City , TX 78113 Web: gregg@RanchesPLUS.com Description: Ranch Sales Commercial Investment properties Wildlife Management

Rob Foster PE

Phone: 281-359-9301 Address: 1710 Palomino Ln Kingwood, TX 77339 Web: robfosterpe@aol.com Description: For sale by owner- 235 Acres. FM Rd 1246, Thorton , TX Cattle pasture, two large tanks. $2450 per acre.

Si Harris & Associates

Phone: 936-523-0483 Address: 15008 St. Hwy 105-E Plantersville, TX 77363 Web: www.siharrisandassociates.com Description: We specialize in farms, ranches, acreage, residential development and commercial properties in Montgomery and Grimes County. If we don’’t have have the real estate you are needing, we can usually locate it very quickly.

Sheep & Goats Clay Creek Farm

Phone: 254-593-4425 Address: 185 CR 409 Buckholts, TX 76518 Web: bangc@vvm.com Description: Boer Goats and Show Goats

Description: Boer - Kiko Spanish Goats, Dorper - Barbado Sheep, Guardian Dogs, Chickens, Beefmaster - Red Angus Cattle, grass-fed beef.

Pittman Show Lambs

Phone: 903-322-1277 Address: 11861 Hwy 75 N Buffalo, TX 75831 Web: txbluho1@msn.com Description: 26 years experience in raising show lambs. We raise club lambs to sell to 4-H and FFA members. We currently have babies born in April, 2010 for sale

Rancho Volsa Basias

Phone: 903-388-8528 Address: 278 F.M. 489 East Buffalo, TX 75831 Web: clwyer@gmail.com Description: We raise Boer and Boer X goats for the meat and show industries.

Rojo Ranch

Phone: 979-567-9895 Address: 305 CR 108 Caldwell, TX 77836 Web: elliottsheepfarm@gmail.com Description: Registered Katahdin sheep, grass-based genetics, consistent winners. Registered Akbash dogs for protecting livestock.

Swine

Trinity Bottom Farm

Phone: 936-594-9807 Address: 61 Harper Branch Rd. Trinity, TX 75862 Web: trinitybottomfarm.com Description: Show pigs and meat hogs. All meat hogs grain fed with no additives.

Working Dogs Enloe Ranch

Phone: 936-396-2603 Address: 5588 Dawkins Rd Normangee , TX 77871 Web: kenloe65@gmail.com Description: Augie ( Toy Austrailian Shepherd X Corgi) puppies for sale. Hybrid Registration- National Designer Canine Registry.

Grey Ghost Ranch

Phone: 936-396-1603 Address: 8431 Hines Lane Normangee, TX 77871 Web: greyghostranch@proplepc.com Description: WEIMARANER PUPS CKC blues & grays, shots/ wormed, both parents on premises, GUARANTEE, payments, $350. Elma 936-396-1603

www.landandlivestockpost.com

Phone: 979-778-6000 Address: 1800 North Texas Ave. Bryan, TX 77803 Web: producerscooperative.com Description: Producers Cooperative Association is one of the largest local agricultural supply cooperatives in the nation. The Association is member-owned by the farmers and ranchers of the Brazos Valley, but membership is not necessary to do business with us. We manufacture livestock feeds and offer a complete line of value-added products and services including fertilizer, seed, petroleum, agricultural supplies and lawn/ garden supplies.

Buddy Micklitz

Land and Livestock Post 2013 Ag Directory

M&M Farm Supply

Rojo Ranch

White’s Texas Aussies

Phone: 903-389-7810 Address: 124 FCR 241 Oakwood, TX 75855 Web: whitestxaussies@aol.com Description: Australian Shepherds And Miniature Australian Shepherds AKC, ASCA & ASDR All colors & sizes 903-389-7810 903-388-8238

Foltin Farms

Phone: 281-787-4347 Address: 22504 Roberts Cemetery Rd. Hockley, TX 77447

Land and Livestock Post 2013 Ag Directory www.landandlivestockpost.com

Your SOURCE for Top Quality Registered & Commercial Brangus Cattle Registered & Commercial Females Available Now!

Bulls for Sale Now! Proud Members of

GO TEXAN

located just off Hwy. 6 and OSR 1415 E. OSR • Bryan, Texas 77808 Office: (979) 776-5760 • Fax: (979) 776-4818 Website: www.circlexbrangus.com

Camp Cooley Ranch • Bobcat Bottoms Ranch • Persimmon Creek Ranch Spring Valley Ranch • Windy Hill Ranch • Vista Ridge Ranch

Steve Densmore, Cattle Mgr., (979) 450-0819, cell • (979) 778-1055, home Chris Duewall, Operations Mgr., (979) 777-6803, cell

Table 1. Resources to Inventory for a Stocker Program*

METAL ROOFING

• Weld Up 40’ X 105’ 16’ Clearance • Bolt Up 3 - Sided Hay Barn • Residential (Round Bale) All Galvalume • Agricultural Pipe / Fencing Supplies

• Pipe • Latches • Fence Cable

936-825-0500

11,16500 + TAX

ALSO

30’ X 60’ X 12’ Eave 1 - 10 X 10 FO All Galvalume Call for Pricing!

1-800-91-HILCO

12503 HWY 6 NAVASOTA, TX 77868

www.hilcosupply.com

Percent 0.00 3.97

Marketable securities Market livestock Crops for sale & feed Fertilizer & supplies on hand Accounts receivable Prepaid expenses Cash investment in growing crops Other current assets (list)

0 232,650 17,980

0.00 29.67 2.29

7,625 10,000 0

0.97 1.28 0.00

0.00

645

0.09

$309,040

39.42

25,500 13,520

3.25 1.72

70,700

9.01

37,605

4.80

0.00

6,000 18,000

0.76 2.30

198,750 104,950

25.35 13.39

0.00

$475,025 $784,065

60.58 100.00

Real estate (market) Buildings-improvements (market) Other assets (list) TOTAL NONCURRENT ASSETS TOTAL ASSETS 1

LIABILITIES: Accounts Payable Notes due within one year Current portion of term debt due within 12 months Accrued interest Income taxes payable Current portion-deferred taxes Other accrued expenses Other current liabilities (list) TOTAL CURRENT LIABILITIES Noncurrent portion-notes payable Noncurrent portion-real estate debt Noncurrent portion-deferred taxes Other noncurrent liabilities TOTAL NONCURRENT LIABILITIES

Amount 0 118,975

Percent 0.00 15.18

11,125 8,500 3,200

1.42 1.08 0.41

55,910 4,000 0

7.13 0.51 0.00

$201,710

25.73

20,790

2.65

83,025

10.59

71,275 0

9.09 0.00

$175,090

22.33

TOTAL LIABILITIES Retained earnings and contributed capital

$376,800

48.06

280,160

35.73

Valuation equity OWNER EQUITY TOTAL LIABILITIES & OWNER EQUITY

127,105 $407,265

16.21 51.94

$784,065

100.00

December 15, 2012

Adapted from Risk Management – Strategic Planning for Landowners by Jason L. Johnson and Wade Polk, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Bulletin E-146, September, 2008.

METAL BUILDINGS

Amount 0 31,140

TOTAL CURRENT ASSETS Breeding livestock (market) Auto-trucks (market) Motorized equipment (market) Machinery & equipment (market) Investment in capital leases Investments in other entities Investments in coops

Metal Roofing & Building Supply Navasota, TX

ASSETS: Cash on hand Cash on deposit in bank



 Natural Resources  Plant species  Rangeland condition  Pounds of available seasonal pasture forage  Water availability  Capital Resources  Breeding animals  Number of yearly weaned calves  Equipment  Human Resources  Labor force  Management  Salaries/wages  Work schedule  Duties  Physical Resources  Water facilities  Working facilities  Buildings  Off-ranch resources  Financial Resources  Outside income  Profit and loss  Cash flow  Balance sheet statements

John P. Recorder December 31, 2011

The Land & Livestock Post

News

Taken from Risk Management: Balance Sheet – A Financial Management Tool by Danny Klinefelter, Professfor and Extension Economist – Management, The Texas A&M System, Bulletin E-482, September, 2008.

HERE’S THE IRRIGATION SYSTEM GRAZIERS HAVE BEEN WAITING FOR!         

Low cost, little or no maintenance A proven, long lasting, durable system The Simple to install and move Original Can use from any water source New Zealand Waters irregular fields and hilly terrain System Saves on water and energy Can be customed designed System can be enlarged as finances permit Patented New Zealand System

EW This N t c Produ at ble Availa

ATS IRRIGATION, INC.

www.atsirrigation.com

2509 Hwy 105 East Brenham, TX 77833

1-800-656-2197

The Land & Livestock Post

News

Get Your Name Out There

BRAHMAN BULLS/HEIFERS Green Meadows

December 15, 2012



Registered Gray Brahmans • F1 Brafords

Illustration courtesy of the Samuel Roberts Noble Foundation

With some time, effort and thought, producers can come up with a business plan that will help them meet their goals with their operation, no matter what type it is.

Plan, from Page 12 weaned at 300 to 350 pounds and put in separate pastures from the cow-calf herd. During spring and early summer the cow-calf herd is not able to graze all the available pasture forage. Rather than buy cows in the spring and then have to de-stock in late summer, stockers will be used to harvest the excess grass. The stockers will be sent to a feedyard at 1,150 to 1,250 pounds.

Resource inventory

Marketplace

“Inventories require the landowner to fully understand the resources available to perform the task,” Johnson said. “An inventory can help identify both underutilized and limited resources. The inventory should cover all resources that currently are available as well as those that would be needed to begin an alternative enterprise.” For a stocker program, a resource inventory would include the items listed in Table 1 on p 13. “People often forget to list human resources in their resource inventories,” Fuchs said. “When I review loan applications, I want to know how the applicant is going to manage his time. Will labor be hired? What are the time conflicts with other enterprises?” “I also consider other income as an important part of the resource inventory, especially for small producers.” Fuchs said. “Small cattle operations with less than 200 cows will not support a family so outside income is very important for producers of this

size. When evaluating whether an applicant has the ability to repay the loan if the business enterprise fails, I need to know his total income.” A balance sheet and cash flow statement for the entire business plus outside income is part of the resource inventory. A balance sheet is a statement of the financial health of a business at a specific time. By comparing past and current balance sheets, growth or decline of assets, liabilities and net worth can be determined. An example of a balance sheet is shown in Table 2 on page 13. “The amount of funds the owner has in the business is shown on a balance sheet and is determined by listing owned assets and liabilities with their values,” said Danny Klinefelter, economist with Texas A&M AgriLife Extension. “The difference between assets and liabilities equals net worth, or the owner’s equity in the business. A balance sheet is often called a net worth statement. Net worth is the value that would be left if all of business’s debt obligations are paid in full.” “Assets may include cash on hand, bank accounts, accounts receivable, feed supplies, livestock, equipment, buildings, land and other items,” said Klinefelter. “Although each asset may not be completely paid for, its full value is listed. The unpaid accounts, notes and mortgages are listed as liabilities. “A projected cash flow statement is a listing of all anticipated cash inflows and outflows for a specified future

See BUSINESS, Page 20

ALL TYPES OF STRUCTURAL STEEL & PIPE Steel Buildings 979-589-2333 1-866-959-2333 pioneerboys.com

Bryan Credit Office 979.775.0404 | 877.775.0404 CapitalFarmCredit.com

LAND

FOR SALE 200 PLUS TRACTS CURRENT & REVOLVING INVENTORY

HOMELAND PROPERTIES

www.homelandproperties.com

800-246-2500

BULLS

Angus, Charolais & Herefords 2yrs. old, perforance records,

22 – 24 Month Old Open Brahman Heifers Ready to Breed. Good Selection of Gentle Breeding Age Bulls Available. Anthony Kubicek (979) 324-7391 cell. (979) 567-4201 ranch. Email: RoyalKRanch@yahoo.com

Solid Rock Ranch Angus Bulls Twos and coming twos. One breeding season guarantee. AI sires include In Focus, CAR Efficient, Danny Boy, Mainline & Retail Product. Matt Jones. Franklin, TX. 979-777-7571, 979-828-3410 www.solidrockranch.com

Registered Black Angus Bulls Low Birth, High weaning weights A-I’d to top Angus Sires Service Age Bulls One breeding Season Guaranteed

Madisonville, TX 936-349-1955 • 903-445-7817 www.greenmeadowsranch.com

RANCH FARM RESIDENTIAL

Bud

dy Micklitz

979.779.0420 979.218.8674 call for appointment or

micklitz@verizon.net

Agricultural Insurance Agency, Inc. Insuring Auction Barns & all Ag Related Businesses

(979) 776-2697

FENCES BARNS PENS GAME FENCES CUSTOM BUILDINGS STALLS REMODELS

Cleere Earthworks L.L.C. TEXAS A&M CLASS OF ‘02

Land Clearing • Ponds • Roads • Pads Dozer • Excavator • Scraper • Dump Truck

979-324-8746 Travis Cleere www.cleereearthworks.com

Get Your Name

Out There

range raised & range ready virgin bulls, fertility tested. Quality to compare anywhere! PAT GRISWOLD CATTLE CO. Goldthwaite, Texas 214/750-4765 Res. 817/946-8320 Mbl.

To advertise in MarketplaceContact:

Jesse Wright 979.731.4721

jesse.wright@theeagle.com

BIGGER TRACTORS. BETTER BALES.

The Land & Livestock Post

Quality and Integrity at Prices You Can Afford.



• Choose from 105-140HP engines • Standard 9F/9R PowrReverser™ transmission • Independent 540/1000 rpm PTO • Choose from 2WD or MFWD

December 15, 2012

6D SERIES UTILITY TRACTORS

JOHN DEERE HAY EQUIPMENT

SQUARE BALERS

ROUND BALERS

MOWER CONDITIONERS

Crop control system gives you solid, square bales for easy stacking.

Select from three different pickups: standard, MegaTooth™, and the all-new Megawide Plus™.

Choose from three conditioners: urethane-roll, steel roll or impeller.

Visit the newly redesigned

CPTRACTOR.COM BryaN, tX

979-822-7684

Navasota, tX 936-825-6575

temple, tX

254-773-9916

CameroN, tX 254-697-6551

taylor, tX

512-352-5296

The Land & Livestock Post  December 15, 2012

News

Conference looks at trends in super-food’ spinach By PAUL SCHATTENBERG Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service

SAN ANTONIO — The recent two-day 2012 International Spinach Conference in San Antonio was attended by about 70 spinach producers and others involved in the spinach industry from the U.S. and other countries, said the conference coordinators. “The conference included producers and representatives of the spinach industry from the U.S., Canada and Europe,” said Larry Stein, conference coordinator and Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service horticulturist at the Texas A&M AgriLife Research and Extension Center in Uvalde. “We were able to address many issues of importance to spinach producer profitability, as well as to consumers of spinach.” Topics included methods for improving spinach production, consumer trends in spinach consumption, managing plant disease, ensuring product safety and changing the “Popeye” image of spinach. On Nov. 30, participants participated in a field tour of Texas Winter Garden spinach-growing areas. The tour included stops in Hondo, Uvalde, La Pryor and Crystal City. Attendees viewed a Del Monte strip trial and plant population study at Martin Farm in Hondo, spinach trials in La Pryor, the Tiro Tres Farms Espinaca packing facility, Del Monte Research Farm disease-screening nurseries, and fungicide and herbicide trials. “The stops on the tour correlated with the previous day’s conference presentations,” said Marcel Valdez, AgriLife Extension agent for Zavala County. “The spinach industry in Texas began in the Winter Garden area and it continues to be a significant agricultural industry. And while there are not as many acres of spinach planted as in the past, new technologies and methods have made it possible to achieve greater production on fewer acres.” Valdez said conference attendance by spinach industry experts from seven U.S. states, as well as from England, Germany and the Netherlands, demon-

strated spinach is “not just a regional crop, but a global one.” “The fact of spinach being worldwide is also borne out by the fact that our annual conference was held in Holland last year, was in Texas this year and will be in China next year,” he said. Spinach trials and equipment used in spinach production were among the areas of interest for those on the field tour, according to coordinators. “At Crawford Farms, we got to see some of the equipment used for planting wide beds of spinach,” said Ed Ritchie, a third-generation producer in the La Pryor area who also was involved in one of the field trials on the tour. “Participants also got to see variety trials for both fresh market and flat-leaf spinach, as well as view the packing Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service photo of spinach for shipment.” Spinach grown in the Texas Winter Garden area represents about 30 percent of all U.S. spinach consumption. The new Ashley Ritchie, a produce growerspinach variety is being touted as the commercial and home gardening replacement for Coho, as seed for the Coho variety no shipper whose family farm longer will be available. was established 1924, said the tour was helpful in getting first-hand knowledge on which spinach varieties are best suited for commercial production in South Central Texas. “For many years, Coho had been the preferred spinach variety for both large- and smallscale producers, but seed sup4400 East Hwy 21, Bryan, TX 77808 pliers are discontinuing making that seed available,” said David Rodriguez, a conference BESIDES BUILDING THE BEST TRAILERS ON THE MARKET, presenter and AgriLife Extension agent for horticulture for WE ALSO OFFER A HUGE SELECTION OF: Bexar County. “Now Ashley has become a commercially tested and proven alternative for use TRAILER AXLES • HUBS • BRAKES • LIGHTS • JACKS as both a commercial replaceCOUPLERS • TOWING • HARDWARE • CARGO CONTROL ment and for home gardens.” He said even youth participatTIRES AND WHEELS • TRUCK ACCESSORIES • WINCHES ing in the Children’s Vegetable GOOSENECK HOOKUPS IN TRUCKS • AND MUCH MORE! Garden program of AgriLife Extension in Bexar County, a joint program with the San Antonio Botanical Garden, had BRING IN THIS AD planted the new Ashley variety TO ENTER A in their garden and that their DRAWING FOR A first “crop” of the new variety $ soon would be ready for harvest. TO THE RESTAURANT Rodriguez touted spinach as OF YOUR CHOICE! a “super-food champion” with nearly twice as much protein, calcium, iron, potassium, Vitamin A, Vitamin B and B2, niacin and Vitamin C as most other See our complete Parts Inventory and order online at: leafy greens. Stein noted that the Ashley semi-savoy Pop Vriend variety

50 GIFT CARD

(979) 778-0034

See SPINACH, Page 17

www.goosenecktrailerparts.com www.gooseneck.net

The Land & Livestock Post

News Spinach, from Page 16 had been evaluated as PV-7130 in Winter Garden test plots.

December 15, 2012

He said spinach is an ideal cool-season crop for South Central Texas and that commercial growers in this area typically produce about 30 percent of all spinach consumed in the U.S. “Our annual conference allows us the opportunity to bring together international experts in the areas of spinach research and production and to share the latest information, technology and management practices toward improving spinach production operations and ensuring a safe product for the consumer,” Stein said.



“In our field tests, we have seen that Ashley is diseaseand drought-tolerant, and has shown little freeze damage as a result of the cooler fall and winter temperatures in the region,” he said. “Because of the fungus diseases that damage spinach growth and leaf appearance, only certain varieties are recommended, and Ashley shows good resistance to them.”

Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service photo The 2012 International Spinach Conference included a tour of spinach research and production locations in the Winter Garden area. Here David Rodriguez, left, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service horticulturist for Bexar County, inspects a field of Ashley spinach with Jan de Visser, a spinach breeder with Pop Vriend Seeds in Holland.

Brien Water Wells Experts in Water Well Drilling & Irrigation Systems

Serving your water needs for 4 generations.

PUMP SALES & SERVICE • Pressure Tanks • Home & Farm Pumps & Parts • Submersible & Lineshaft Turbines for Irrigation & Public Systems WATER WELL DRILLING • Agricultural • Residential • Commercial

Brien Water Wells circa 1940s.

Brien Water Wells present day.

Hwy 6 South, Hearne, TX

979-279-2427

Brien Water Wells has the experience and know-how to assist you in all your water needs, call today!

The Land & Livestock Post  December 15, 2012

Commentary

Giving some lip to an extremely hairy situation M going well. They had a lot of scouring calves and heifers not pairing up. LeeRay was the ground-man at the calving barn. He’s a big fellow, not fleet-of-foot but strong and hard working. He was being helped by two cowboys who watched the “heavy bunch.”

oustaches have become de rigueur in certain lifestyle choices: mountain men, Arctic explorers, Fu Man Chu-ists, carnival acts like the bearded lady and cowboy poets. As we know, if something becomes popular, the government soon tries to get involved.

A word about moustache safety and maintenance; haphazard! There are really no official rules, no regulations passed down by the Department of Sanitation or Landscaping or Aerodynamics. But I suppose one might encounter moustache restrictions for certain jobs such as wine tasting, orthodontry or swallowing fire. Moustache freedom soon may be endangered, however. Already, well-meaning socialist potentates have passed intrusive laws in their kingdom

BAXTER BLACK ... and his moustache decreeing No Smoking, No Soda Pop, No Big Macs, No Voting Republican, and No Spitting On The Sidewalk. What if these little self-appointed kinglets discovered that moustaches can be life threatening? Let’s consider the story of LeeRay, a good ol’ Nebraska farm boy. It was calving season and things were not

Jacobs Properties

Montgomery Texas

www.txland.com 936 597 3301 344 Ac

RANCH DEALS! Grimes County…, Beautiful rolling pastures, 6

ponds, large barn, equipment shed, barn with horse stalls/pens, improved coastal/jiggs pastures, long frontage on County road. 2 story ranch house with cedar paneling, tile floors, and two master suites. $1,695,000 312 Ac Robertson County…Tidwell Creek Ranch near Calvert. Productive hayfields, good hunting, great terrain variations, oak and pecan flats, cedar breaks in the draws, several outstanding homesites with great access to HWY 6! $2,721/ac 329 Acres Grimes County…Near Iola, entirely high fenced, numerous lakes and ponds and 150+- acres of improved grass. The remainder of the property provides diverse cover and vegetation for the abundant exotic wildlife and improved whitetail genetics. Barndominium in central 3 acre compound offers shop and large living quarters. $1,498,000 192 Ac Walker County…FM 247 and Pinedale Road just minutes from I-45 and Huntsville. Rolling terrain, wooded areas separated by open fields. Long frontage on Hadley Creek and lots of wildlife. Multiple homesites with lots of natural character. $3,538/ac 315 Ac Grimes County… Great location on Highway 105 near Plantersville. Huge potential for developed usage. Upland rolling hillside pastures, Caney Creek transects portion of bottomlands. Would make a great showplace. $8,500/ac 198 Ac Walker County….Cedar Creek Ranch offers a 4800 sq. ft. home, 10-stall barn with tack/feed room, 6,000 sq/ft metal bldg/shop and roping/riding arena. Two ponds, some hardwoods, rolling pastures, improved hay meadows. North of Huntsville. $1,586,800

One late afternoon the cowboys brought in a big Angus cow who, in spite of her calving difficulty, was still on the fight! The cowboys backed the trailer up to the loading pen and led their horses out. LeeRay walked in, opened the middle divider and quickly stepped back. Mama Cow disembarked like a long-jumper in the Ungulate Olympics and put LeeRay over the fence. The cowboys mounted up and managed to get a rope around her neck to help direct her to the alley that led to the calving barn. It wasn’t work-

ing, so LeeRay stood in the alley gate to tempt her. (To those of you who participate in dressage or raise rabbits, this may seem to be a questionable practice. But so is riding bulls, returning punts or falling in love with a cowboy!)

Mama Cow took the bait and charged, dragging horse and rider behind her. LeeRay slid and stumbled down the alley into the calving barn like a wounded rabbit at the dog races. The alleyway was a 4-inch layer of fines made up of sand, horse manure, hay and dust. The dally slipped! Mama caught up and hit LeeRay square in the seat of his pants sending him into a nosedive. With her pushing, he plowed a furrow 12 feet long in the thick dust and dirt. He got to his hands and knees twice but she never let up. She just kept on plowing

with LeeRay turning up the curl. Finally he slid by an open gate, rolled to the right and she took a left into the little calving pen! “Are you all right?” yelled the cowboys. LeeRay staggered to his feet. He looked like a 200-pound breaded muskrat! He blinked back the tears and said, “I think I swallowed my moustache!” • Learn more about Baxter Black at www.baxterblack.com.

Merry Christmas

P.O. Box 3000, Bryan Texas 77805 979.776.4444 | 800.299.7355 | thepost@theeagle.com

The Land & Livestock Post

News Livestock Market Reports Brazos Valley

Results of the Caldwell Livestock Commission’s Nov. 28 sale: Head: 624. Steers: 200-300 lbs., $200$245; 300-400 lbs., $175-$195; 400-500 lbs., $150-$185; 500600 lbs., $140-$180; 600-700 lbs., $130-$145; 700-800 lbs., $120-$130. Heifers: 200-300 lbs., $190-

Cattle, from Page 7 ing black cattle. Black-hided cattle were 61.1 percent in the 2011 NCBA audit versus 56.3 percent in 2005 and 45.1 percent in 2001. Meanwhile, Savell said animal welfare is a big concern of major restaurant chains and the

Results of the Groesbeck Auction and Livestock Exchange’s Nov. 29 sale: Head: 717. Steers: 300-400 lbs., $195$225; 400-500 lbs., $170-$193; 500-600 lbs., $150-$170; 600700 lbs., $125-$145. Heifers: 300-400 lbs., $175$200; 400-500 lbs., $160-$175; 500-600 lbs., $130-$150; 600700 lbs., $115-$135. Slaughter bulls: $85-$93. Slaughter cows: $62-$82. Stocker cows: $800-$1,600. Cow/calf pairs: $950-$1,700.

Jordan Results of the Jordan Cattle Auction Market Nov. 29 sale: Head: 1,919. Steers: 200-300 lbs., $190beef industry as a whole. Many have evaluated cattle handling operations and made changes, such as chute gates and how they may interfere with cattle movement and po-

December 15, 2012

Caldwell

Groesbeck

$205; 300-400 lbs., $180$202.50; 400-500 lbs., $160$190; 500-600 lbs., $140-$157; 600-700 lbs., $130-$146; 700800 lbs., $125-$136. Heifers: 200-300 lbs., $170$200; 300-400 lbs., $160$177.50; 400-500 lbs., $145$182.50; 500-600 lbs., $135$141; 600-700 lbs., $120-$140; 700-800 lbs., $115-$128. Slaughter bulls: $83-$99.75. Slaughter cows: $60-$86. Stocker cows: $800-$1,290. Cow/calf pairs: $990-$1,550.



Results of the Brazos Valley Livestock Commission’s Nov. 27 sale: Head: 987. Steers: 200-300 lbs., $190$225; 300-400 lbs., $162-$215; 400-500 lbs., $146-$190; 500600 lbs., $135-$159; 600-700 lbs., $120-$145; 700-800 lbs., $122-$132. Heifers: 200-300 lbs., $157$180, 300-400 lbs., $144-$167; 400-500 lbs., $135-$166; 500600 lbs., $122-$147; 600-700 lbs., $112-$132; 700-800 lbs., $112-$119. Slaughter bulls: $81-$93.50. Slaughter cows: $55-$81.50. Bred cows: $1,050-$1,500. Cow/calf pairs: $1,140-1,700.

$215; 300-400 lbs., $160-$200; 400-500 lbs., $140-$185; 500600 lbs., $130-$160; 600-700 lbs., $123-$132; 700-800 lbs., N/A. Slaughter bulls: $62-$90. Slaughter cows: $58-$83. Stocker cows: $710-$1,200. Cow/calf pairs: N/A.

Milano Results of the Milano Livestock Exchange’s Nov. 27 sale: Head: 547. Steers: 300-400 lbs., $152$201; 400-500 lbs., $150$182.50; 500-600 lbs., $129$165; 600-700 lbs., $110-$136. Heifers: 300-400 lbs., $130$187.50; 400-500 lbs., $125$181; 500-600 lbs., $117-$140; 600-700 lbs., $111-$130. Slaughter bulls: $85-$92. Slaughter cows: $60-$85. Stocker cows: $800-$1,160. Cow/calf pairs: $950

19.95

— Special to The Post

CARC ASS DATA

TE PRIVA Y T A E TR

rk Angus Ranch L.L.C. a l C

sue 24 Is

tential bruising. He said bruised carcasses declined by 77 percent in 2011, signaling heightened awareness and attention by the industry regardling cattle handling.

NEWS YOU CAN USE RIGHT IN YOUR MAILBOX

SUBSCRIPTION Subscribe to the award-winning Land & Livestock Post and receive 24 issues of the latest ag news and information about the issues that aﬀect you!

 

New Subscription

Mail or Fax to:

c/o Land & Livestock Post

Address Change

P.O. Box 3000 Bryan, TX 77805 FAX (979) 776-8923 or vist www.landandlivestockpost.com and click “subscribe”.

Since 1952 CROCKETT, TEXAS

Published by Bryan-College Station Communications, Inc. (979) 776-4444 or (800) 299-7355

President - Crystal Dupré .....................................................Ext. 4613 Publisher and Editor- Kelly Brown.........................................Ext. 4656 Advertising Director - Ron Prince ........................................ Ext. 4740 Advertising Sales/General Manager - Jesse Wright ...............Ext. 4721 Financial Director - Rod Armstrong .......................................Ext. 4605 New Media Director - Mike Albin ..........................................Ext. 4663 Production Director - Mark Manning.....................................Ext. 4671 Circulation Director - Jack Perkins .......................................Ext. 4752

Published by Bryan-College Station Communications, Inc., P.O. Box 3000, Bryan,Texas 77805. E-mail: thepost@theeagle.com All offices are located at 1729 Briarcrest Drive Bryan,Texas 77802. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The Eagle, P.O. Box 3000, Bryan,Texas 77805-3000 The Post is printed in part on recycled paper and is fully recyclable.

Name: Address:

100% Guaranteed

Semen Tested

City:_____________________ St: ________ Zip: Phone #: Old Address (if applicable): City: _____________________St: _______Zip:

100 REGISTERED BULLS, 18-24 MONTHS, EPD’s READY FOR HEAVY SERVICE OPEN & BRED HEIFERS - COWS AVAILABLE CALL FOr AN AppOiNtmeNt BiLL CLArK 936/544-9013 888-252-7501

GeNe StOKeS, mGr. WeBSite: clarkangus.com emAiL: clarkangus.aol.com

PAYMENT INFORMATION 

Check Enclosed (Please make checks payable to The Eagle)



Please Bill my:

 Mastercard

 VISA

 American Express

 Discover

Account#:_____________________________CIV#:_____________ Name on Card: Amount: _________________________Expiration Date: Signature: Date:

The Land & Livestock Post 

News Business, from Page 14 period. It includes both farm/ ranch and non-farm income, and all projected cash outflows, including operating expenses and capital outlays, family living expenses, borrowing transactions and tax payment.” An example of a cash flow statement is shown in Table 3.

December 15, 2012

Marketing plan

“A marketing plan includes market outlook and expectations, production risk tools, price risk tools, price and date objectives and strategies,” said Stan Bevers, economist with Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service at Vernon. “The market outlook and expectations component of the marketing plan is an assessment of the market situation and a determination of what might happen to prices as you progress through the production and marketing year. “While you may not be able to make precise price forecasts into the future, you may be able to get some idea of the probability of whether the market will offer a price that meets your objectives some time during your marketing horizon,” Bevers said. One of the production risk tools currently available is pasture range forage insurance which insures for forage production loss from drought. (See May 15, 2012, issue of Land & Livestock Post.) Often alternate management practices can be utilized to reduce production risk. “The price risk tool that I recommend is marketing cattle by hedging and put options to offset potential losses,” Fuchs said. “A put option is a contract to sell at a specified price by a predetermined date. If market prices go above the contract price, there is no obligation to exercise the option and full market value can be obtained. If market prices go below the contract price, the option can be exercised and investment is protected. “I prefer put options, because in hedging you are locked into a price based on future markets,” Fuchs said. “If market prices are above the contracted price when calves

are sold, the investor doesn’t realize the full market value. The advantage of hedging occurs when the market is below the contract price and the investor is protected against loss.” “In the price and date objectives section of the marketing plan you can begin to combine the information such as cash flow needs, costs, price objectives, outlook, production and price risk tools from the previous sections,” Bevers said. “You can start identifying price and date triggers based on break-even costs and market forecasts. “Are there some seasonal price tendencies that you want to try to take advantage of ? “Probably the most difficult, yet most important, component of the marketing plan is determining a way to combine all of your information into an overall strategy,” Bevers said. “This requires discipline and takes into account all the previous information such as the expected production, break-even price, market outlook, etc. “You need to have a plan that covers what to do if prices rise, but also what to do if prices decline.”

Operating plan

The operating plan is the section of your business plan where you dig into more of the

going to make money. “Believe it or not, I have had cases where borrowers stated they needed more expense money than what the operation was projected to make in gross sales,” Fuchs said. “We want to make sure that the customer is planning for a successful venture. There is enough risk in agriculture without planning to lose money and not even realizing it.” Development of business plans can seem very difficult to those who are new to the task; however this should not deter one from using them as a management tool. Assistance is available from a number of sources such as certified public accountants, loan officers, ranch business seminars, management consultants and extension economists. Once you write a business management plan, you will be amazed how easy it becomes. Better business decisions will be made with proper planning and good supporting record keeping systems. nuts and bolts of the business enterprise. It includes types and amounts of required feed, the animal health plan, and a task calendar. Using our business segment example, this is where you write specifics of how you’re going to manage the stockers on site and then ship them to your customers.

Financial plan

Minimal items to include in

the financial plan are estimated expenses and expected income of the business segment. Other important components of a financial plan are gross profit, net profit and return on assets. You need to make sure that the business segment is

Pecans C ir cl e X Or ch a r ds

Crack’em Yourself & Taste the Difference!

10522 FM 2095 • Gause, Texas 77857 Billy Stein • 979.200.1300 billy@fluhartyfarms.net

This year’s crop: 1# bag shelled pecans $10.00 5# bag in-shell pecans $3.50/lb 50# bag in-shell pecans $3.00/lb

(979) 776-5760 or (979) 450-0819

Shelled Pecans Available Too!

Milano Texas (800) 848-0873 milanolivestock@msn.com

Bottles of Ivomec Plus

EAST TEXAS SEED CO.

P.O. box 569 • tyler, tx 75710-0569 (903) 597-6637 • fax (903) 595-0106 www.easttexasseedcompany.com seeds@easttexasseedcompany.com (800) 888-1371

Steel Pipes

Stall Barn

198 Ac Walker County….Cedar Creek Ranch offers a 4800 sq. ft. home, 10-stall barn with tack/feed room, 6,000 sq/ft metal bldg/shop and roping/riding arena. Two ponds, some hardwoods, rolling pastures, improved hay meadows. North of Huntsville. $1,586,800 JACOBS PROPERTIES Montgomery Texas www.txland.com 936 597 3301

Brangus Heifers

Kubota Tractors

Nobody beats...

Normangee Tractor

December 15, 2012

Milano livestock exchange

Acres of Ryegrass



Loads of Cattle

The Land & Livestock Post

On the 12th Day of Christmas My True Love Gave to Me...

1-800-396-3101 • 936-396-3101 Corner of Hwy 39 & OSR Normangee, Texas www.normangeetractor.com

Limousins!

C.F.L.X Ranch www.merial.com

Wheel Drive

9401 E. Hwy 21 • Bryan, TX

979-589-2333

www.pioneerboys.com

Boyd Built Feeders

located just off Hwy. 6 and OSR P.O. Box 4747 • Bryan, Texas 77805 Steve Densmore (979) 450-0819 • www.circlexbrangus.com

John Deere Tractors

ATKINSON TOYOTA MADISONVILLE • BRYAN 936-349-0909 • 979-776-0404

www.atkinsontoyota.com

Boyd Industries, Inc. Phone:(800)611-3540 www.BoydBuilt.com

3110 HWY 21 W @ FM 2818 Bryan • 979-822-7684

21314 OSR Madisonville OSR (903) 344-2331

And a subscription to L&LP

To Subscribe Call 979-731-4622 Happy Holidays!

The Land & Livestock Post  December 15, 2012

News Safety, from Page 8 tion “any mistake in the world can affect everyone else.” He cited a recent disease outbreak traced to cucumbers in Germany that affected cucumber sales in the U.S. “So we cannot say, ‘It’s not here; it’s in another state or in another country,’” he added. “The world is getting smaller, and so for some people if sales of their crops are not finalized, they can go out of business. They cannot afford to sit on $10,000 or $100,000 or even $1,000 worth of produce because of a food-safety issue.” He recommends that all producers “think like a big operation and always be on the cutting edge of education and compliance with any and all rules and regulations but especially those that apply to human health because those mistakes are unforgivable.” After completing the course, he added, people should “display that certificate proudly to show that you learned about Good Agricultural Practices and the food safety protocols and principles and that you are observing them. “Even at a small-scale farmers market, if you display that certificate and a customer sees that your display is clean,

your hands are clean and your clothes are clean, the overall impression is that this is a clean operation. And with that certificate, a customer is willing to pay the extra price,” Masabni said. Most food safety issues stem from two things: fecal matter and human hygiene, he said. “A lot of us forget that with many of these pathogenic bacteria, the source is fecal matter, whether it’s human or animal,” he said. “If you are aware of that, that is 50 percent of the battle. And water is the biggest source of transmission of fecal pathogenic microorganisms.” Human hygiene issues can be improved drastically by proper hand washing, Masabni added. “The ideal hand-washing procedure is to lather with soap for 20 seconds, and I think 99 percent of the population does not lather for a whole 20 seconds with soap,” he added. Masabni said that while the course is available anytime, a good time to take it might be now while producers are not as busy in the field. The online course allows people to start the course and either finish at one sitting or return to it as time allows. The course requires approximately three hours to complete.

Jan. 18 beef cattle workshop at Texas A&M to discuss bull selection, management techniques A good choice can pay big dividends By Blair Fannin Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service

A Jan. 18 workshop in College Station will teach beef cattle producers bull selection techniques and feature discussions on breeding programs, performance data, care and management. The program, to be held at the Texas A&M University Beef Center in College Station, will be led by Jason Cleere and Jason Banta, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service beef cattle specialists at College Station. “A herd bull is responsible for 50 percent of the herd’s calf crop and a good bull is an investment that can certainly pay big dividends,” Cleere said.

Photo courtesy of bull.msu.edu A Jan. 18 workshop at the Texas A&M University Beef Center in College Station will teach producers how to select a good bull for their herd.

The program will begin at 10 a.m. with Cleere discussing cattle breeds and breeding programs. He will follow with a demonstration on visual selection of bulls. After lunch, Banta will lead presentations on bull performance data and genetic markers, bull fertility and bullto-cow ratios. He also will give a presentation on bull care and management. “Selecting the right bull for your cattle herd takes plan-

ning and research,” Banta said. “Workshop participants will come away with a good understanding of specialized practices and management strategies that will improve their operation and overall bottom line.” Live animals be will be used during several presentations, and participants will have the opportunity to sort through a set of bulls, Cleere said. “This will be an in-depth program that will give beef cattle producers the opportunity to see us critique several bulls and point out what traits that are acceptable or non-acceptable during selection,” he said. Cost is $60 and includes meals, refreshments and lecture materials. The program is limited to the first 50 registrants. For more information and to register, visit agriliferegister.tamu. edu and enter keyword “beef,” or contact Michelle Sensing at 903-834-6191.

Questions About Cattle Health?

Ask the Vet! Steve Wikse - Retired DVM Large Animal Clinical Sciences College of Veterinary Medicine, Texas A&M University

CALDWELL LIVESTOCK COMMISSION

REGULAR SALE EVERY

WEDNESDAY, 1:00 PM

WIKSE

Submit your questions to: Carl Herrmann (979)820-5349

Hwy 36 South, P.O. Box 542, Caldwell, TX 77836 Sale Barn Phone: (979) 567-4119

P.O. Box 3000 Bryan, TX 77805 or jesse.wright@theeagle.com

The Land & Livestock Post ď&#x201A;Ť

December 15, 2012

The Land & Livestock Post

From Our Family to Yours!

December 15, 2012



Merry Christmas

Levi, Tanner, Rose, Kelton, Gabby and Greg Goudeau

HWY 90 (TOWARD ANDERSON) & FM 3455 CLOSED DECEMBER 22ND & DECEMBER 29TH FIRST SALE OF 2013  JANUARY 5TH 24