the
BEEFMASTER Pay Weight
a publication dedicated to serving commercial cattlemen and produced by Beefmaster Breeders United SPRING 2018
Vol. 4, No. 1
Section 1
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How to Compare EPDs Across Breeds By Robert Wells, Ph.D., Noble Research Institute Have you ever wondered which bull breed you should use in your operation? How do you make the right choice that will align best with the type of cow you own and your goals? These are common questions from producers. You cannot look at the registration papers of bulls from two different breeds and make accurate direct comparisons of expected progeny difference (EPD) traits because every breed has a different scale and base for each trait. Fortunately, researchers at the U.S. Meat Animal Research Center (U.S. MARC) in Clay Center, Nebraska, publish annual adjustment factors so EPDs can be compared across 18 beef breeds. The table above contains adjustment factors to compare EPDs of individuals of
different breeds, based on studies by the U. S. Meat Animal Research Center (MARC), Clay Center, Nebraska. Adjustments for some breeds are not available if they are not in the MARC database. The base for comparison is Angus.
These factors should be added to an individual EPD for direct comparison with an individual EPD of a different breed. For instance, consider
an Angus sire with Weaning Weight EPD of +50 and a Charolais sire with Weaning Weight EPD of +25. The Charolais adjustment factor is +34, so the adjusted value for the Charolais sire is +59 (25 + 34), 9lb heavier than the Angus sire’s +50 (which is not adjusted since Angus is the basis of comparison). Or, compare a Gelbvieh sire with Milk EPD of +23 with a Hereford sire of +20. The Gelbvieh adjustment factor is +4 and the Hereford adjustment factor is -18; the result is the Gelbvieh sire’s adjusted value is +27
(23 + 4) and the Hereford adjusted value is +2 (20–18), 25lb below the Gelbvieh. These factors are not breed comparisons. They are adjustments to allow comparison of individuals of different breeds. Breed comparisons can be seen on the website http://beef.tamu. edu in the list of publications under “Genetics & Selection”. Look for “2017 SireBreed Comparisons for EPD Traits”. Registry association breed averages can be seen in another publication on the above website under “2017 Breed Averages for EPD Traits”. Other EPD values calculated by some breeds (but for which no across-breed adjustments are available) include various combinations (depending on the breed) continued on page 4
Beefmasters: Delivering Heterosis Since 1930 By Bill Pendergrass, Beefmaster Breeders United Requested in-home March 1- 10, 2018
In reference to crossbreeding, the past decade has experienced a focus almost exclusively on the terminal side of the business, playing a major role for commercial breeding programs. While this terminal emphasis has benefited the consumer, cattle feeder and packer; it has not done anything to progress the genetic improvement of maternal traits, which benefits the cow/calf sector to a much higher degree than carcass
traits do. In a sense, the cow/calf producer could almost ask the question “who is doing anything for the rancher?” For the first time in years the industry has started discussing the deficiencies existing throughout the nation’s cowherd. Beef cow efficiency wake up calls are occurring from brutal reality. As ranchers take the heifer mates of outstanding steers, that excel in the yard and on the rail, and try to make them
work as mamas out on range conditions, it does not work. Often times these heifers’ mature weight is larger than what typical pasture conditions will support, leading to reproductive failure and early culling, which drastically increases annual costs - the largest input for every rancher. Simply put, the value of maternal genetics are being overlooked until the rancher realizes too late that they need an infusion continued on page 18
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The Beefmaster Pay Weight
Letter From The Editor By Collin Osbourn What a start to 2018 with the demand for Beefmaster genetics. We are hearing from more and more commercial cattle operations that are looking to incorporate Beefmasters into their breeding programs for the added heterosis, efficiency and maternal quality found in our Beefmaster genetics. In this issue of The Beefmaster Pay Weight you will find quality sources for those high performing Beefmaster genetics. Genetics that will help you to return more dollars to your bottom line.
You will find several informative articles that will update you on what has been going on in the Beefmaster breed and the beef industry as a whole. The Integrity Beef Alliance is a beef production program that capitalizes on the use of crossbreeding and markets cattle through various programs. Noble Research Institute (NRI) is a leading research institute based in Ardmore, Okla., that provides consultation support to its members. The use of Beefmaster genetics in the Integrity Beef Alliance through NRI has added another option for producers to increase net returns. As the beef industry continues to emphasize efficiency, Beefmaster
the BEEFMASTER Pay Weight
breeders are ramping up the use of intake recording units, like GrowSafe systems. We have long known that our Beefmaster cattle were bred to be functional and efficient and the returns from these intake systems are proving just that. Beefmaster cattle are continuing to outpace other breeds when looking at the Residual Feed Intake results. In recent research at the USDA Meat Animal Research Center, Beefmaster steers and heifers each rank as the second most efficient breed in an 18 breed comparison. The opportunity that Beefmaster genetics give, will allow beef operations to produce more pounds of quality product with less input.
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Maternal ability, increased heterosis and efficiency are just a few ways Beefmasters are improving the profitability of ranchers across the US. If you have any questions or comments please contact me at cosbourn@beefmasters.org or 210-732-3132. Enjoy!
Collin Osbourn
Executive Vice President Beefmaster Breeders United Editor, The Beefmaster Pay Weight
Beefmaster Breeders United
The Beefmaster Pay Weight is a publication produced by Beefmaster Breeders United and dedicated to serving commercial cattlemen. The Beefmaster Pay Weight Team Editor: Collin Osbourn Managing Editor: Jeralyn Novak Contributing Writers: Brittni Bates, Sarah Flowers, Heather Hamblen, Dr. Raluca Mateescu, Myriah Johnson, Jeralyn Novak, Bill Pendergrass, Collin Osbourn, Dr. Justin Rhinehart, Dr. Matt Spangler, Dr. Bob Weaber, Dr. Robert Wells, Advertising Coordinators: Carey Brown, Lance Bauer, Dusty Pendergrass, Jeralyn Novak Graphic Designer: Jeralyn Novak
Beefmaster Breeders United Staff Members Collin Osbourn: Executive Vice President Bill Pendergrass: VP Marketing & Research Lance Bauer: Director of Breed Improvement & Western Field Representative Sarah Davis: DNA Coordinator Brandi Feller: Member Service Data Entry Donna Henderson: Office Manager Jeralyn Novak: Communications Coordinator Dusty Pendergrass: Eastern Field Representative Bonnie Ramirez: JBBA/International and Membership Coordinator
For advertisement sales: Contact Jeralyn Novak 210-732-3132 or Carey Brown with Livestock Advertising Network at 859-278-0899 Contact BBU: 118 W. Bandera Road, Boerne, TX 78006 - (210) 732-3132 - info@beefmasters.org
Beefmaster Breeders United reserves the right to refuse advertising in any publications. Š 2018 Beefmaster Breeders United. All rights reserved. The contents of this magazine may not be reproduced by any means, in whole or part, without prior written consent of Beefmaster Breeders United.
Advertise or subscribe e Beefmaster Pay Weight 210-732-3132 jnovak@beefmasters.org beefmasters.org/commercial/beefmaster-pay-weight.php
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continued from page 1 of calving ease, heifer pregnancy, 30-month pregnancy, gestation length, days to calving, scrotal circumference, yearling hip height, mature weight, dry matter intake, mature cow maintenance, residual ADG (feed efficiency), mature height, docility, stayability (longevity in the herd), carcass weight, Yield Grade or % retail product (percent lean), tenderness, and $ Value Indexes. For a complete breed genetic evaluation report, contact the particular breed association or their website. After applying the adjustment factor to an EPD, the resulting value is called an
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across-breed EPD (AB-EPD) and allows for comparison across breeds. Who Should Use AB-EPDs? The AB-EPDs are most valuable to commercial producers in terminal crossbreeding systems. Crossbreeding allows producers to select the breeds that will work most beneficially on the ranch and increase heterosis of the resulting calves. By deliberately planning a breeding
program, producers can work toward their end goals
and produce calves that will be desired by order buyers. The producer is best served by picking the breeds he or she wants to utilize, then selecting for individuals within the breed that can meet the producer’s goals. This is where the AB-EPD calculation is valuable. Table 1 provides analysis on birth, weaning and yearling weight, and marbling score AB-EPD comparisons of most breeds that are evaluated at the U.S. MARC. Each breed was set at breed average of each trait for comparison purposes. Example of Using AB-EPDs A producer has an Angus-based commercial cow herd and would like to sell terminal feeder crossbred calves. The producer wants to know which breed to use to increase the calves’ weaning and sale weights after a 60-day preconditioning program. For the purposes of this article, we will assume the producer has access to bulls from Charolais and Gelbvieh sire breeds with both bulls being ranked in the 50th percentile of the breed for weaning and yearling weight EPDs. continued on page 6
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The Charolais and Gelbvieh
calf at weaning and a 27.5
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and/or the adjustment factors. Other Factors
continued from page 4 The calculation is demonstrated in Table 2. The Charolais and Gelbvieh bulls have weaning weight EPDs on their registration papers of 27.3 and 67, respectively. The adjustment factors from the U.S. MARC table are 34 and -23 (found in the table at bit.ly/2017epds), respectively for the Charolais and Gelbvieh bulls. The weaning weight AB-EPD for the Charolais bull would be 61.3 (34+27.3) and 44 (-23+67) for the Gelbvieh when mated to the Angus-cross cow. In this scenario, with similar quality bulls, the Charolais bull has a 17.3 pound weaning weight advantage over the Gelbvieh bull.
bulls have yearling weight EPDs on their registration papers of 50.5 and 92, respectively. The adjustment factors from the U.S. MARC table are 34 and -35, respectively for the Charolais and Gelbvieh bulls. The yearling weight AB-EPD for the Charolais bull would be 84.5 (34+50.5) and 57 (-35+92) for the Gelbvieh when mated to the Angus-cross cow. In this scenario, with similar quality bulls, the Charolais bull has a 27.5 pound yearling weight advantage over the Gelbvieh bull.
Therefore, to meet the producer’s goals of selling black-hided, crossbred calves out of Angus-cross cows, the Likewise, the same calcu- producer would use the Chalation would be performed rolais bull since it has a 17.3 for yearling weight AB-EPDs. pound weight advantage per
Of course, there are other factors a producer should take into account when making bull selection decisions. Careful consideration should be given to live birth weights. What amount of discounts or premiums will be received for a certain breed? Will a discount on a certain breed offset any weight gains that pound advantage if the calves can be achieved? Does the producer want to retain ownare taken to yearling age. If the producer bred this bull to ership into the feedyard and sell to the packer? If so, mar25 cows, the Charolais bull bling score would become would have a 432.5 pound more important. There is also increase in total producthe pride of ownership astion at weaning and a 687.5 pect. Does the producer just pound increase at yearling prefer a certain breed over age. another, or is there a family About EPD Data history of raising a specifIt’s important to note that ic breed? Breed selection is not an easy choice to make breed associations re-evaluand should be done with all ate and adjust EPDs at least variables thought out before semiannually. Likewise, the writing the check for any bull U.S. MARC generates new or cow. adjustment factors for each breed annually. The acrossbreed EPD adjustment factors are released at the annual Beef Improvement Federation meeting each summer. Dr. Robert Wells Therefore, it’s important to Livestock Consultant use the most current data Noble Research Institute available when using EPDs
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The “steaks� are high to produce healthier foods and Bos indicus cattle may have the advantage! By Sarah Flowers, Heather Hamblen and Raluca Mateescu - Department of Animal Sciences, University of Florida For years, Bos indicus influenced cattle have received a bad rap for their less-marbled beef product. However, as the push for healthier foods has risen in recent years, this provides opportunity for Bos indicus breeds, such as Beefmaster, to market a leaner product that is appealing to health-conscious consumers. Beyond the simple fact that the beef from these cattle breeds is typically leaner, research at the University of Florida shows the fatty acid composition of the marbling is more favorable in terms of nutritional value. The fatty acid composition of meat (muscle and adipose tissue) is important because it
contributes to the nutritional value and it affects various aspects of meat quality, including shelf life and flavor. Nutritional value is determined primarily by the ratio between saturated fatty acids and polyunsaturated fatty acids in meat. Low fat diets have been recommended on the premise they would decrease the risk of developing several cardiovascular diseases and, therefore, improve human health. As meat contains a relatively high amount of fat, some people followed the prevailing recommendation and cut down on their meat consumption. It turned out that this simple message is actually wrong. Detailed research carried out in
the last decade shows that the total amount of fat in the diet, whether high or low, is not really linked with diseases. What really matters is the type of fat in the diet. What is becoming clearer is that bad fats, meaning trans and some short-length saturated fats, increase the risk for coronary heart disease as well as other diseases, while good fats, meaning mono- and polyunsaturated and longerlength saturated fat, lower this risk. Several factors in beef production affect fatty acid composition, including breed and diet. Breed affects the fat content of meat and fat content itself is a factor determining
fatty acid composition. If beef producers could identify cattle that have more beneficial fatty acid profiles, they could enhance the nutritional and health value of beef. Such beef could increase profit to producers because consumers likely would be willing to pay a premium for beef that consistently has a high nutritional and health value. In addition, this nutritionally enhanced beef would likely increase overall demand for beef and ensure continued growth of the beef industry. Over the last few years, researchers have identified several genes that regulate the fatty acid composition of beef. continued on page 9
San Pedro Ranch Producing functionally efficient, fertile, low input Beefmaster cattle with good dispositions, who thrive in harsh environments. All cattle are raised on grass, not feed! Heifers and open cows available May 1, 2018. All cattle are enrolled in Whole Herd Reporting, genotyped, DNA tested, parent verified, and scanned for carcass data Selling replacements, bred/open cows, and bulls
Come see our bulls at the upcoming 57th Isa Beefmaster Bull Sale on October 6, 2018!
www.sanpedroranch.com Fitzsimons & Howard Families @sanpedroranch
Dr. Chase Currie PO Box 349 Carrizo Springs, TX 78834 (832) 228-2752 Chase@sanpedroranch.com
built from the past Bred for the future
Participating in the Live Oak BBA Bull Test & these upcoming sales!
Collier Farms Advantage Sale - April 14 - Giddings, Texas Collier Farms Performance Bull Sale - Nov. 17 - Brenham, Texas
Private Treaty cattle available at the ranch Registered Beefmaster Cattle - Frozen Embryos & Semen 2016 Ranch Bred AQHA Colts
V7 Beefmasters Melvin & Marilyn Scherer 1495 Moritz Road Meyersville, TX 77974 melvinscherer@yahoo.com
7C Anderson Cattle Co. Steve & Michelle Anderson PO Box 2549 Victoria, TX 77902 andersstev@aol.com 361-877-2577
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Research Findings The cattle in this study are part of the University of Florida multi-breed herd of cattle that range from 100% Angus to 100% Brahman. Cattle were classified into six different groups based on their expected Angus and Brahman breed composition. Based on the Angus composition, the grouping was as follows: 1 = 100 to 80%; 2 = 79-65%; 3 = 62.5% (Brangus); 4 = 59 to 40%; 5 = 39 to 20%; 6 = 19 to 0%. When steers reached 1.27 cm of fat thickness over the ribeye, they were transported to a commercial packing plant and harvested
52%
8%
51%
8%
51%
7% 7%
50%
6%
50%
6%
49%
5%
49%
5%
48%
4%
48%
4%
47%
3%
100%A
75%A
Brangus
50%A
25%A
Mean PUFA (% of total FA)
This, along with the natural variation existing in many breeds of cattle, suggests that fatty acid profiles in beef could be improved through genetic selection. The University of Florida Department of Animal Sciences is currently conducting research on Bos indicus influenced cattle to determine the extent to which genetics influence fatty acid composition and to develop genomic tools for identification of genetically superior animals.
using established USDASaturated fatty acids (SFA) Brahman increased from 0 to FSIS procedures. A steak are known to have a negative 100% (Figure 1). 2.54 cm thick from the effect on human health, These findings could be Longissimus dorsi muscle while mono- (MUFA) great news for producers th between the 12 and and polyunsaturated packaged, aged for13 14th days from the harvest date fatty at 2째C, and then frozen at raising Brahman influenced rib20째C. was sampled per animal. areofknown A thin shaving of each acids steak(PUFA) trimmed external fat and connective cattle, including Beefmaster, Steaks were transported to to have a positive effect. In tissue was powdered and analyzed at Iowa State University as forour fatty acid and data preliminary the Meat Science laboratory this initial set of animals, shows they may have an composition. ofmineral the Department of Animal there was no significant advantage of a healthier fatty Sciences at University of difference in the amount acid composition. In this Saturated fattypackaged, acids (SFA) are to have a negative effect on human Florida, vacuum of known monounsaturated fatty dataset, nutrient profiles of aged for 14 days from the acids among the different health, while mono- (MUFA) and polyunsaturated fatty acids beef(PUFA) were notare uniform across harvest date at 2째C, and breed groups (MUFA ranged known to have a positive effect. In this initial set of animals,cattle, thereand wasvariation no in fatty then frozen at -20째C. A for 44.2% to 45.8%). A acidacids composition significant difference in the amount of monounsaturated fatty among is partially thin shaving of each steak beneficial trend was found attributable to genetic the different breedfatgroups (MUFA for 44.2% trimmed of external in bothranged the saturated and to 45.8%). A beneficial factors. Furthermore, part of trend was found in was both the saturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids with and connective tissue polyunsaturated fatty acids this variation can be credited powdered analyzed with the SFAand declining fromincreasing from 4.3% the SFA and declining from 51.3% to 47.5% the PUFA to Brahman percentage, atto Iowa State University 51.3% to 47.5% and the 6.9% as the percentage of Brahman increased from 0 to 100% (Figure 1). continued on page 10 for fatty acid and mineral PUFA increasing from 4.3% composition. to 6.9% as the percentage of
Mean SFA (% of total FA)
continued from page 7
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100%B
Figure 1. Percentage of saturated fatty acids (orange) decreasing from 51.3% to 47.5% and percentage of polyunsaturated fatty acids increasing from 4.3% to 6.9% as the percentage of Brahman increased from 0 to 100% in a sample of 150 crossbred cattle from the UF herd.
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continued from page 9 allowing for new opportunities for cattle producers utilizing Bos indicus influenced breeds. Although our research findings are within an Angus-Brahman population, we know most Bos indicus influenced breeds produce a similar product in terms of marbling, and therefore we expect these results to be comparable in the Beefmaster breed. This may open the door for producers utilizing Bos indicus breeds to appeal to health-conscious consumers through marketing beef that has a more desirable fatty acid composition. Additionally, researchers will continue working towards finding genetic markers that will allow producers to identify and select for animals that will produce beef with higher percentages
of polyunsaturated fatty acids and lower percentages of saturated fatty acids. Now more than ever, beef producers are exploring new ways to market their product. Beef with an improved nutritional fatty acid profile creates a product marketable to consumers who place value on health attributes over high marbling. Rather than Bos indicus influenced cattle taking a hit for those cattle that don’t reach the choice mark, producers should market this leaner product for its favorable attributes. The Beefmaster breed is in a good position to capitalize on this trend and respond to the demands of health-conscious consumers. Focusing research and promotion efforts towards nutritional and health benefits of beef could result in a very profitable future for Brahman-influenced cattle producers.
Sarah Flowers and Heather Hamblen are graduate students in the Department of Animal Sciences at University of Florida working on their M.S. degree with Dr. Mateescu. For more information, visit ralucamateescu.com or contact Dr. Mateescu (raluca@ufl.edu).
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Heather Hamblen Graduate Student University of Florida
Dr. Raluca Mateescu Associate Professor Quantitative Genetics & Genomics Department of Animal Sciences
beefmasters.org Sarah Flowers Graduate Student University of Florida
ROSE CAPITAL CLASSIC
BEEFMAStER SALE Saturday, April 7 10:00 a.m. Louisiana State Fairgrounds Shreveport/Bossier City th
BULLS & FEMALES SELL! MORE INFO: Dwight Bertrand 337-368-9112 or Kendall McKenzie 985-848-5469
Sale Manager: Anthony Mihalski 210-415-0888
LOUISIANA BEEFMASTER BREEDERS ASSOCIATION President: Dwight Bertrand 337-368-9112 Elton, La.
Vice-President: Raymond Fulco 318-933-8626 Keatchie, La.
Sales Chair: Kendall McKenzie 985-848-5468 Angie, La.
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Beefmaster Bulls Included in Integrity Beef Alliance By Jeralyn Novak, Beefmaster Breeders United Beefmaster Breeders United is excited to announce a new partnership with the Integrity Beef Alliance. In December 2017 Beefmaster bulls became the most recent bull breed approved by the Integrity Beef ’s board of directors for inclusion in the program. Beefmaster bulls are the newest addition to the program and join the already approved bull breeds of Angus, Charolais, Hereford and Red Angus. Established in 2000 by the Noble Research Institute (formerly the Noble Foundation), Integrity Beef is the culmination of best management practices developed by Noble’s agricultural consultants and recommended to producers who participate
in the organization’s no-cost consultation program. Integrity Beef is a comprehensive beef production system that produces the highest quality calves possible for the next supply chain owner and the consumer, while improving returns for ranchers through value added traits. Integrity Beef emphasizes progressive management methods, ranch stewardship and humane care of all livestock. Integrity Beef includes a terminal production system that uses a value added, preconditioning program. Through uniform and elevated standard management practices, Integrity Beef producers’ cattle far surpass industry standards for performance, quality, health and behavior.
Large and small ranches benefit equally from participating in Integrity Beef through implementation of best management practices and increased marketing venues, replacement cattle and ranch supply procurement support. Membership is not geographically limited to any area of the country. Additionally, all members benefit from being able to benchmark their respective ranches against others within the program on the reported production and economic variables and metrics of each ranch. Beefmasters are a strong compliment to the well thought out Integrity Beef program. Adding value and increasing efficiency at every
turn is what Integrity Beef strives for and Beefmasters will help in those regards. “As a piece of the Integrity Beef maternal equation, Beefmasters will capitalize on heterosis, maximize terminal crossbreeding, increase value adding selection tools and solidify commercial genomics,” says Vice President of Marketing and Research Bill Pendergrass. “All of these steps increase efficiency for the rancher, feeder, packer and ultimately the consumer, while also securing our ranches for the next generation of cattlemen and women.” Ensuring the program’s integrity, which remains focused on quality not quantity, has remained a continued on page 14
Colvin Beefmasters Building From The Best
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Seguin, TX 78155
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Consigning OVER 125 first calf E6 pairs to the
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The Beefmaster Pay Weight
continued from page 11 paramount responsibility for the board. Therefore, certain requirements are met by all Integrity Beef members, including specific calf, cow and bull criteria; reporting of information; and the Integrity Beef herd health program. Noble Research Institute livestock consultants will help members find quality replacement cattle, 1 9 5 1
2 0 1 8
C E L E B R AT I N G
66 Years
while Noble’s agricultural economists review a variety of market sources and conduct a critical market assessment to judge where and when to best sell member cattle. Some of the numerous options include an Integrity-Beef-sanctioned value-added calf sale or direct marketing off the ranch to stocker operations, feedlots or niche markets. If you are a Beefmaster breeder interested in
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participating in the (CED), WW and YW. Integrity Beef Program the requirements for inclusion are as follows: for the terminal program, bulls must be in the top 20% of the breed for weaning weight Jeralyn Novak (WW) and yearling weight Communications Coordinator (YW) at time of purchase by Beefmaster Breeders United the member owner. For the replacement female program, the bull the replacement is bred to for the first calf must be in the top 20% of the breed for calving ease direct
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Integrity Beef Alliance Takes Bold Steps to Further Program Development By Robert Wells, Ph.D., Noble Research Institute The 2018 production year is in full swing and cow-calf producers are looking forward to another successful calf crop in the Southern Great Plains. This past year has been an excellent year of growth for the Integrity Beef Alliance, both in participation numbers and in marketing opportunities for members. Additionally, Alliance leadership has taken several steps to further guarantee the program’s future success. The program now includes more approved bull breeds, modified requirements for breed composition of eligible calves, additional marketing avenues and a changed sale format, and an Integrity Beef Premier Replacement Female Program.
Bull Breeds Moving forward, the Alliance board of directors approved the inclusion of more bull breeds. In January 2017, the Alliance approved the official inclusion of the Red Angus breed. In August 2017, Herefords were approved as a bull breed. In December 2017, Beefmaster bulls became the most recent bull breed to be included. This is in addition to Angus and Charolais, which were already recognized as approved bull breeds. Furthermore, other breeds are now encouraged to contact the Alliance about developing a formal relationship with Integrity Beef.
Calf Breed Composition Breed composition of eligible calves has been modified as well. Previously, the breed composition of the cow was capped at no more than 3/8 Brahman influence and no more than 1/2 Continental genetics. Now the emphasis is placed on the calf ’s genetics, which is the marketable product
for Alliance members. The new protocols allow for up to 1/4 Brahman influence in each individual calf, based on phenotypic evaluation. The constraint on Continental genetics has been lifted. By easing the Brahman influence standards, producers who have F1 or Brahman percentage cow continued on page 16
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continued from page 15
Additionally, the Alliance marketing committee took herds now have a venue under consideration and to market their calves acted on a recommendation and be recognized for the from several feedlots to not added value built into their commingle calves at the management. This move will annual value-added calf allow for a more inclusive sale. The Alliance board environment for cow-calf of directors approved the producers in the South and modified sale format, and the Southeast. 2017 calf crop was the first in Marketing Opportunities almost a decade to sell under individual ranch name and Noble Research Institute staff, working in concert with by ranch of origin group. The buyers’ response was Alliance board members, encouraging as the resulting have developed new bid prices at the valuemarketing opportunities for added calf sale were very Alliance members. The first favorable to the members. of those new opportunities Additionally, we saw an has manifested itself in increase in the number of the form of a value chain interested buyers. marketing alliance. This value chain was developed Furthermore, the Alliance between Noble Research has continued to pursue Institute and cow-calf member-only benefits with producers to Innovative allied industry in the form of Livestock Services through sponsorships and memberthe Beef Marketing Group, only pricing on goods and to Tyson Foods and Golden services. State Foods, and finally Premier Replacement Female ending with McDonald’s. Program The value chain is addressing efficiencies in developing Finally, the Alliance a sustainably sourced beef has continued to develop product. Alliance members the Integrity Beef Premier are in the first year of this Replacement Female relationship and are already Program. This program is seeing benefits of the vertical designed for producers in the alliance that has been heifer development segment developed. of the business to have an
Bulls offered for sale at: Texoma Beefmaster Sale
opportunity to subscribe to a uniform set of industryrecognized best management practices and be recognized and rewarded for producing a quality replacement female for cow-calf producers. This program starts with a weaned calf and culminates with a bred replacement female that is ready to be sold to another rancher. Aspects of the program include proper vaccination schedules; proper heifer development through breeding until she is marketed; and set standards regarding the bull to which the heifer is bred, including calving ease direct, weaning weight and yearling weight expected progeny differences (EPD) requirements. The expectation is the calves will come easy with minimal dystocia then grow out well and have heavy weaning weights for premier replacement female buyers. During the first few years of this program, buyers have reported back exceptional calving ease and calves that are weaning at weights very comparable to the mature cow herd. This program is proving that a producer can have the best of both worlds: low birth weight calves with heavy weaning weights.
www.beefmasters.org
For those who wish to become a member of Integrity Beef, there are other requirements that must be met depending on which program a person is interested in. Please refer to www.integritybeef.org for more requirement details. For more information about joining the Integrity Beef Alliance, please contact Robert Wells at integritybeef@noble.org or 580.224.6430.
Dr. Robert Wells Livestock Consultant Noble Research Institute
beefmasters.org
COVER BOY
March 17, 2018 in McAlester, OK
Southeastern Dixie National Sale March 31, 2018 in Tunica, MS
Heart of Central States Sale
May 12, 2018 in Locust Grove, OK
Arkansas BBA Graded Sale
September 15, 2018 in Damascus, AR
Selling Purebred and Commercial Beefmaster Cattle
Ty Agee Memphis, Tennessee 901.486.7000 Email: wtyageemisspollysmemphis@gmail.com
CattleMan’S QuiZ 1. Are you lacking heterosis in your females? 2. Do you have pink eye problems? 3. Do you have problems getting cows bred back? 4. Do they stand in ponds? 5. Do you have cow productive longevity? 6. Are your weaning weights too low? 7. Are your input costs increasing each year? 8. Do you have calving ease problems?
BeefmaSters Are tHe AnsWeR eVerY tIme We are Selling Over 150 lotS • 60 Breeding Age Bulls • 25 Yearling Bulls • 70 Registered Females
Ozark & Heart of AmericA Spring Sale
APRil 14, 2018 Springfield, MisSouri Springfield Livestock Marketing Center
OHoABeeFmAsters.Com for more information or to request a sale catalog contact the sale manager:
ShoW Me Cattle Services 417-876-7285 or 417-827-9391 possumflat@aol.com
Catalog will be online three weeks prior to sale at
OHoABeeFmAsters.Com
18
The Beefmaster Pay Weight
continued from page 1
lowers cow maintenance costs. It is proven that of replacement females to crossbred cows also have replace those females that higher conception rates and had to be culled at six years live substantially healthier, versus twelve years. We have longer lives; lowering costs by known for decades that the virtually eliminating the need quickest way to increase to buy replacement females. performance is through Simply put, terminal traits crossbreeding for heterosis. and maternal traits don’t Crossbreeding is not only the necessarily complement each fastest way to improve upon other. The more emphasis lowly heritable traits, it is you put on growth, the also the fastest and cheapest larger the resulting females, way to improve efficiency. which require more inputs Maternal heterosis - or the which increase cow upkeep efficiency gained by using costs. The simplest and crossbred cows - results in most effective measure better breed ups, higher for a commercial cow/calf percentage of calves born operation is best described alive, with calves being as pounds of calf weaned per more healthy and vigorous, cow exposed and crossbred all of which lead to heavier cows are the fastest route weaning weights and putting to improve pounds of calf more dollars in the pocket weaned per cow exposed. To of the rancher. Furthermore, truly harness the effects of research has shown that heterosis, the rancher must heterosis also impacts feed exploit genetic differences efficiency, which additionally
www.beefmasters.org
between breeds. That is why a small amount of Brahman influence on the maternal side yields great results for maternal traits, especially for lowly heritable traits like fertility.
the rancher must ask is “are the carcass premiums earned on half of the calf crop, which essentially can only be earned by retained ownership feeding and selling, more profitable than lowered cow maintenance Breed complementarity costs and greatly enhanced is another key value driver. cow productivity?” If you For example, the carcass find yourself in a ranching quality traits of the British situation and maternal breeds compliment the strength is what you need, strong maternal traits of maybe it is time to consider the Bos indicus breeds, Beefmasters as your maternal resulting in a more solution. Beefmasters are a environmentally adapted cow composite breed composed that can withstand harsher of Bos indicus, Hereford and environments. However, Shorthorn cattle - balancing her offspring will have exceptional maternal improved carcass merit for strength, along with accepted today’s value adding grids. British breed carcass MERIT. The steers may not reach They are proven to be huge marbling premiums on especially productive in harsh a consistent basis but, the environments. Beefmaster heifer mates are substantially sired females are ideal for better adapted to earning many Angus based a living under range conditions. The question continued on page 19
BMW Beefmasters Billy and Marie Welkener
Kenedy and Pawnee, Texas • 361-362-4224 • mbwelkener@gmail.com consigning Beefmaster cattle in the following sales:
Live Oak BBA Spring Sale - Three Rivers, Texas - May 12, 2018 South Texas BBA Buccaneer Classic - Robstown, Texas - October 13, 2018 Carrs and Others Beefmaster Sale - Floresville, Texas - October 20, 2018 Live Oak BBA Fall Sale - Location and Date TBD
www.beefmasters.org
continued from page 18 crossbreeding programs because of the additional maternal heterosis punch. The resulting calf crop often shows very little, if any “ear influence” and are predominantly black. On the terminal side, Beefmasters have exceptionally strong immune systems (another heterosis driven advantage), resulting in lower health issues and death loss which allows buyer to offer stronger bids. Beefmasters also excel in feed conversion. A recently compiled data set including over 1,000 Beefmaster steers which were fed in 15 separate feedyards across eight different states, averaged 3.8 average daily gain with a 5.29 dry matter conversion. This efficiency, which offers fewer days on feed and lower cost of gain, is a key element for
BM
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profitability and is also favorably impacted by heterosis. Again Beefmasters are a very effective heterosis delivery tool. For more information on crossbreeding with Beefmasters go to www. beefmasters. org/ commercial.
pictured above and below are commercial Angus cows with Beefmaster sired calves.
Bill Pendergrass
VP Marketing & Research Beefmaster Breeders United
Walking M Cattle Co. Brien & Bekah Moules 24561 N. Dustin Rd, Acampo, CA 95220 (209) 712-6023 walkingmcattle@live.com
Home of CF Miss Heavenly Honey New Dimension 805 x HS Heavenly Hattie 62T14
Arrowhead Ranch Siddons Beefmasters Ranch Located in Tilden, Texas
BOB & BONNIE SIDDONS 512/261-5327 Home 361/274-3700 Ranch 512/217-3400 Mobile
BBU Env
ironmen tal Award Winner 2005 Winners o Perform f the McAllen a Test - th nce Award Gain ree years in a row
BERACHIAH BEEFMASTERS Charles B. Albright 713-819-5449 chuckb1@swbell.net Lavaca County, Texas
Breeding Polled Beefmasters since 1982 Lawrence and Connie Shuey Dale and Karen Shuey Cassville, MO 65625 417/826-5881 417/773-0151 berachiah@centurylink.net
CaseyBeefmasters.com Since 1948 Albany, Texas Watt:325-668-1373
Muscled - High IMF “Six Essentials” Cattle 405-650-0675
Our CUSTOMERS All Over the United States ARE The Seventh Essential
20
The Beefmaster Pay Weight
www.beefmasters.org
Removing Beef Cows from the Herd Before They Become a Problem By Dr. Justin Rhinehart, University of Tennessee Cows generate 70-75% of “non-fed” beef in the US and are used for more than just ground beef (roasts, steaks, fajita strips, etc.). Because these animals are worth more than ever before, it is important to market them while they are healthy and mobile. “Downer cows” are no longer accepted by market facilities and buyers are weary of cattle that are more likely to be condemned at the packing facility.
Culling Checklist • Pregnancy check all cows. Any mature cow or replacement female that is not pregnant should be sold to maintain the profitability of the operation. For bulls, have a breeding soundness exam done before each breeding season and market bulls that do not pass.
average should be considered for marketing when the need/opportunity arises to sell extra cows.
• For farms with a calving season, consider selling any cows that will calve late or out of your window. These cows have a higher likelihood of coming up open in the next breeding season or producing a lightweight • Major defects would calf. Pregnant cows in this include very bad category would be marketed temperament, chronic differently than open, lameness, eye problems (early Beef consumers and defective, or old cows. These signs of cancer eye), or severe the general public are more cows may be out of line with udder problems. interested now about where your calving season, but they • Inspect teeth of cows so their food comes from and might work for someone else. that you know the number how it is produced than at • Market cows that do any other point in the history of effective years each cow not maintain their body has left. Cows with broken of modern beef production. condition score when fed teeth or badly worn teeth Marketing cows before properly. Even if they do not should be high on the market their health declines not end up with a high marketing list. Teeth that are somewhat only makes the herd more priority due to one of the worn indicate they are profitable, it also helps the criteria discussed above, entire industry maintain the getting old, but they have a they should be considered few years left in the herd. good reputation for animal for selling during a drought care that it deserves. • Market cows that produce year because there is a higher Think about the decision calves with very low weaning chance that they will not weights. Calves with to market cows as if you breed back, or that they have extremely light weaning are giving each cow in the underlying health issues that herd an annual performance weights should be sold would come out during times soon. Make a note of cows review for their job and of stress. producing calves with less consider the following • A deep culling might be a than average weaning weights checklist for marketing good time to consider selling (but not extremely low). criteria: any cows that are extreme Cows that repeatedly wean in frame size or muscling in calves less than the herd your herd. This may be very
DOMINANT TRAITS FOR GROWTH & POWER
CF Oasis Lowell, Rick, Scott, Abe, Owen & Derrick Stonecipher 971 Old Bells Rd., Jackson, TN 38305 (731) 664-7400 Cottage Farm Genetics (731) 616-7702 Rick’s Mobile ricks@praxiscompanies.com
Top 1% EPD for WW, YW & SC, with an EPD accuracy of .9, which is unheard of for a dam. “Big Spread” genetics very small BW EPD with huge WW & YW EPD. -1 BW EPD stacked against top 1% WW & 1% YW EPD.
small or very large cows that produce calves that are not uniform with the rest of your calf crop, perhaps dairy-cross or off color cows. Anything you can do to increase the uniformity of your herd will help you with future marketing plans. These criteria might not fit each farm/ranch perfectly. But, starting with these general concepts and tailoring them to you specific objectives should help identify cows that need to be marketed. Selling market cows at the right time will improve profits for that year and build profitability for future calf crops.
Dr. Justin D. Rhinehart Associate Professor University of Tennessee
beefmasters.org
R
c o. e l t t a d & c n a l J R diger e r . t 2 jo h n x 7977 c o s, t e p , 0 6 b ox 1 7 -3091 8 4 4 432
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Consider Your Options: Graze-out vs. Harvesting Wheat By Myriah Johnson, Ph.D., Noble Research Institute As we move into 2018, mated prices in Oklahoma it will soon be time to think City are $158.85 per hunabout whether to pull cattle dredweight and $137.47 per off wheat so it can be harhundredweight, respectively. vested for grain or to leave We’ll also assume 1.25 head the cattle on the pasture per acre during this springthrough wheat graze-out. time period of graze-out. UlOne of the biggest concerns timately, an additional $86.66 this past fall was the lack of in revenue could be generatmoisture received. This will ed with graze-out wheat. ultimately impact producers’ The expected cash price decisions this spring, too. for wheat in south-central In evaluating the grazeOklahoma early next June out or wheat for grain opis $3.92 per bushel. Using tions, a partial budget can be the five-year average Oklaa useful tool. For this, we’ll homa wheat yield of 29.4 assume you could continue bushels per acre, a revenue of with a 650-pound steer in $115.25 could be generated March and take him to 800 by cutting wheat for grain. pounds in early May. EstiRevenue is only half the pic-
ture as we must also take costs into account. With harvesting wheat, you’ll have the associated fungicide, weed control, combining and hauling costs to consider. With stockers, you’ll still have the cost of hauling them to the auction barn. Taking all this into account, it appears that taking the stockers through grazeout will be more advantageous by about $21 per acre. However, the picture starts to change if you can beat Oklahoma’s five-year average yield of 29.4 bushels per acre. If you can produce 35 bushels per acre, you could expect
the same returns as grazing out cattle. Any improvements in yield will favor pulling cattle and cutting the wheat for grain. As always, keep your pencils sharp. These price relationships will have changed by the time you read this article. Crunch these numbers for your own operation.
Myriah Johnson
Agricultural Economics Consultant Noble Research Institute
Herd reduction sale AT ROMP BEEFMASTERS ENTERPRISE LOCATED IN BOYD, TEXAS
Selling by Private Treaty
CAPTAIN SUGAR, CJ’S SOULMAN, SYNERGY, JOHNNY CASH BLOODLINES
TWO breeding bulls
THREE young bulls
FIVE young heifers
THREE 3 in 1 cows
ONE pair
FIVE bred cows
CONTACT INFORMATION: MALCOLM TALLMON (OWNER) 817-991-1741
MOUNTAIN VIEW RANCH SERVING SE MISSOURI WITH PROVEN BEEFMASTER GENETICS HOME OF TRAIT LEADER
DESTINATION
DARREN & RENEE THURSTON
IRONTON, MO 573-747-3643 thurstonconst@ sbcglobal.net
TIM YOUNGBLOOD (RANCH MGR.) 817-564-3616
New Cut Farms Beefmaster 15368 Sod Road Athens, AL 35611
256.434.0178
cwchristopher77@gmail.com
Cliff & Pam Christopher
Red Angus X Beefmaster Replacement Females Grand Champion Pen of Females 2013, 2014 & 2018 San Antonio All Breeds Sale
Moore, Texas Owner: Don & Gwen Mullins Lane Roberson 210-846-6747 robersonj7bar@gmail.com
Paul & Rhonda Wallen
Lockwood, Mo. 417-808-0296 wallenprairieranch@yahoo.com www.wallenprairieranch.com
Join us on Facebook: Paul-Rhonda Wallen
PW
WHERE POWER & PERFORMANCE COMES TOGETHER WITH QUALITY & EYE APPEAL
22
The Beefmaster Pay Weight
www.beefmasters.org
Beefmasters Win Big at San Antonio Livestock Show All Breeds Bull and Commercial Female Sale By Jeralyn Novak, Beefmaster Breeders United The 27th Annual San Antonio Livestock Show and Rodeo All Breeds Bull and Commercial Female Sale proved to be a successful event for five Beefmaster Breeders United (BBU) members, with two of the breeders taking top honors. Rancho Dos Vidas Ltd., Moore, Texas won Overall Grand Champion Pen of Females with their first place Beefmaster/E6 Certified Bred Heifers. Collier Farms Beefmasters, Brenham, Texas won Overall Reserve Champion Pen of Females with their second place
Beefmaster/E6 Certified Bred consigned pen of Beefmaster/ Heifers. E6 Certified bred heifers with Red Angus sired calves. The Beefmaster breeders This pen consisted of a super were recognized prior to the set of moderate framed, sale held on Wed., Feb. 14, easy fleshing Red Angus 2018 after being selected as x Beefmaster replacement top-placing cattle during females. Don Mullins is the the judging held on Tues., owner of Rancho Dos Vidas Feb. 13, 2018. All of the Ltd., and Lane Roberson is cattle consigned to the the ranch manager. Mullins sale are judged by a panel is one of the first ranchers to of twelve judges. This sale utilize the Beefmaster breed, features purebred bulls dating back to the 1960s. and commercial heifers consigned by premier Texas “This is our seventh ranches. year to compete in the San Antonio All Breeds Sale. We Rancho Dos Vidas won started breeding our BBU grand champion with their registered females to Red Angus bulls eight years ago in an effort to clean up their underlines, get moderate sized calves and to become more functional as commercial Rancho Dos Vidas Red Angus X Beefmaster Replacement Females
Double L
cattle,” said Roberson. According to Roberson, the Beefmaster and Red Angus cross has produced him stronger offspring and the female offspring hit puberty earlier. He says they typically can start breeding these crossbred females at 11-13 months, have a calf on the ground by 24 months and are ready to breed back at 24 months. This cross of Beefmaster and Red Angus provides Roberson with the ideal mother cow that has superior milk production, clean underlines and is range hardy. Not only does the ranch see an increase in maternal attributes, these crossbred calves weigh on average 80 lbs., more per head than the straight bred cattle raised in the past by Rancho Dos Vidas. The combination of solid maternal performance and weight gain performance has been the perfect cattle cross for Rancho Dos Vidas in the pasture and also in the sale ring. continued on page 23
Selling
NINE SONS at TEXOMA SALE March 17, 2018 McAlester, Okla.
Pictured at 8 years old
4 out of the top 12 bulls at 2017 Beef on Forage Sale were sired by Double L
C941847 • 2/13/2007 GE-EPDs: CE: 1.6, BW 0.6, WW 53, YW 84, TM 28, MCE: 1.5, SC 1.3, REA 0.82, $T 140.84, $M 24.16
The PROVEN Bull Producer TANK - Record setting $42,500 bull at Beef on Forage Sale
Sired by Double L Owned by Ensor & Miller Beefmasters
Double L Semen For Sale L L
Co-Owned by:
Larry Lairmore
L L
903.278.7623 • Foreman, Arkansas • lairmore72@yahoo.com
Ron Sanko - Whiskey River
620.249.9335 • Pittsburg, Kansas • sankoron@gmail.com
www.beefmasters.org
continued from page 22
Texas ranches and prominent members of BBU. The “I love this cross and first place Beefmaster/E6 there is nothing I would Certified Cow/Calf Pairs change, it produces a very award was presented to HT high quality female. Such a Chapman Cattle Company, high quality female that our Rockport, Texas. The ranch cannot keep up with first place Beefmaster/E6 the demand for our crossbred Certified Open Heifers was females,” said Roberson. awarded to Golden Meadows Collier Farms Beefmasters Ranch, Cotulla, Texas. The High Grading Beefmaster won reserve champion Bull award was presented to with their consigned pen Swinging B Ranch, Axtell, of Beefmaster/E6 Certified bred heifers with Angus sired Texas. calves. The ranch is owned “This is the third time
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JONES BEEFMASTERS
Where Quality and Efficiency Meet
1420
CJ’s Love Maker Sire: CF Dr. Love Dam: CJ’s Diamond Reflection C1052229 1.24 REA • 3.49 IMF
Collier Farms Beefmaster/E6 Certified females with Angus sired calf
by Mike and Rhonda Collier and Trey Scherer is the ranch manager. Since 1987, the Collier family has bred exclusively Beefmaster and Beefmaster influenced cattle, marketing and promoting the breed both domestically and internationally. Collier cattle are bred and raised to fit the demands of today’s commercial cattle industry. The heart of the Collier Farms breeding program and Beefmaster breed lies in the area of cow/calf production. Because this sector of the beef industry has paramount importance and can be more easily measured for efficiency and profitability, Collier Farms places the highest level of emphasis on their brood cow herds. All brood cows at Collier Farms must produce a calf of acceptable quality every year, breed back in a 90 day breeding season, and do so on commercial range conditions. Three more Beefmaster honors went to well-known
for Rancho Dos Vidas to win Grand Champion Pen of Females with their Red Angus x Beefmaster females – 2013, 2014 and now 2018,” said BBU Executive Vice President Collin Osbourn. “However, this year is extra special because Beefmaster cattle not only took home the top honor, but also won the second top honor. It was a great day for the Beefmaster breed and our members.” For more information on utilizing Beefmaster genetics for commercial crossbreeding contact Bill Pendergrass at 210-464-6002 or visit www. beefmasters.org/commercial.
15/15
CJ’s Diamond Rolex Sire: CF Adrenaline Dam: CJ’s Diamond of Soul C1066663 1.1 REA • 3.21 IMF
JONES BEEFMASTERS PRODUCTION SALE JUNE 23, 2018 SAVANNAH, TENNESSEE
&
FLINT HILLS CLASSIC BULL SALE presents
SEPTEMBER 29, 2018 PAXICO, KANSAS
presents
Jeralyn Novak
Communications Coordinator Beefmaster Breeders United
JONES BEEFMASTERS – CLARK JONES
731/926-1721 • jonesbeefmasters.com Ranch Manager - Justin Williams 731/926-6459
24
The Beefmaster Pay Weight
www.beefmasters.org
THE TRUSTED BRAND for Improved Performance and Profitability
CG Total 3094 CG Total 3094 along with his exceptional quality stretches the curve from birth to yearling like few other bulls in the breed. CG Total the #1 bull for WWT and YWT EPD among all 2014 born bull calves which also rank in the top 1% of breed for BWT EPD. Calving ease and growth in one package! Semen $25 (CSS Semen Available) WPR’S THE TOTAL PACKAGE (C954388) X PIERSON 2580 (C998887)
CE
BWT
WWT
EPD
8.2
-3.6
37
% RANK
1%
1%
10%
MILK
TOTMAT
MCE
SC
REA
IMF
FAT
$T
66
10
28
3.1
1.0
0.04
-0.01
-0.02
5%
45%
10%
50%
5%
70%
70%
85%
$M
112.1 26.76 5%
10%
Relentless Relentless, the most powerful son of CF Dream Catcher has earned his reputation here at Cain Cattle Company. Consistently sires calves with added capacity, and growth, ranking in the breeds top 5% for WWT and YWT EPD. Add to that his dam is the powerful donor Pippa! Relentless, like his sire and dam gives that extra touch of quality and added punch for growth! Semen $100 (CSS Semen Available) CF DREAM CATCHER (C977250) X PIPPA (C994456)
CE
BWT
WWT
YWT
MILK
TOTMAT
MCE
SC
REA
IMF
FAT
$T
$M
EPD
-1.9
3.9
44
67
7
29
3.7
0.9
0.15
-0.01
-0.03
113.8
22.23
% RANK
100%
100%
5%
5%
80%
10%
20%
10%
55%
70%
85%
5%
15%
CCC RIO BRAVO 550C3 Rio Bravo fits the performance profile we demand here at Cain Cattle Company. This polled (scurred) son of Ring of Fire is a maternal half sib to Reliant! Semen $100 (Limited Offering) EMS RING OF FIRE (C1005473) X JONES 550 (C912923)
CE
BWT
WWT
YWT
MILK
TOTMAT
MCE
SC
REA
IMF
FAT
$T
$M
EPD
2.3
0.9
39
67
7
26
2.1
0.4
0.61
0.19
-0.02
116.5
17.73
% RANK
60%
60%
5%
5%
45%
15%
95%
35%
5%
15%
85%
5%
30%
Summit 5306 Summit 5306 is a true curve bender that blends birth weight, maternal, growth, and carcass traits into the most exciting young bull in the breed today. New exciting heights for the Beefmaster breed, reach them with Summit 5306. Semen $55 (CSS Semen Available) J & K 1001 (C993059) X MEACHAM 0714 (C995332)
CE
BWT
WWT
YWT
MILK
TOTMAT
MCE
SC
REA
IMF
FAT
$T
$M
EPD
6.8
-1.8
31
54
11
26
3.7
0.8
1.25
0.16
-0.02
94.8
24.11
% RANK
5%
5%
15%
15%
25%
15%
15%
10%
1%
15%
99%
20%
15%
P661C
Dr. Robert Williams | General Manager 816.519.1179
rwilliams@caincattle.com | P.O. Box 3269 Gulfport, MS 39505
Owners: Ted, Julie, Logan & Evan Cain
Beef is our Business
www.caincattle.com
P2738 C
BEEFMASTER Pay Weight The Beefmaster Pay Weight
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the
25
a publication dedicated to serving commercial cattlemen and produced by Beefmaster Breeders United SPRING 2018
Vol. 4, No. 1
Section 2
www.beefmasters.org
Pounds Pay in the Feedyard By Brittni Bates
Commercial breeders have many options today to market their cattle, and retaining ownership through the feedyard is one of those options. Performance and carcass data producers have received from the feedyard at Irsik and Doll in Garden City, Kansas, prove Beefmaster cattle are more than just a maternal breed. Beefmaster and Beefmaster cross cattle can perform in the feedyard, grade on the rail, and return a profit for producers who market their cattle on the grid. James Skelton, a Beefmaster seedstock producer in Springdale, Arkansas, started retaining ownership of his calves through the feed yard in 2010, and he has experienced firsthand how well his cattle perform and can earn him a profit. “This data tells me that
Beefmaster and Beefmaster cross cattle can do just as well in the feedyard as any other breed, and I have quickly learned how carcass data impacts my bull selection to produce the kind of quality calves that will grade and yield on the rail,” Skelton said. Over the last seven years Skelton has marketed 453 through Irsik and Doll, and his average dry matter conversion rate is an excellent 5.29 with his best calves converting as low as 4.7. The more efficiently calves convert feed to pounds, the faster they gain, and the less money the producer incurs getting
those calves to harvest weight. Lower dry matter conversion rates means fewer days on feed and lower cost to gain which yields higher profitability.
profitability. His added emphasis on efficiency as a criteria for breeding selection has proven beneficial when retaining ownership of feeder cattle.
At Vaughn Family Farms in Mount Vernon, Missouri, General Manager Jason Bates considers their successful low feed conversion as the primary factor to their
“With the last group of cattle we marketed on the grid, we were able to profit $410.57 per head solely based on, what I feel after looking continued on page 26
www.cherryglenbeefmasters.com BREEDING FOR QUALITY & PERFORMANCE
SINCE 1989
7 BULLS SELLING
FMC 4302 - C1052359 - Deceased
Texoma Beefmaster Performance Sale March 17, 2018 - McAlester , OK
JOHN & SUE PIERSON 707.718.4199 piersons@castles.com
Limited Quantity of Semen Available
CED
BW
WW
YW
Milk
TM
CEM
Fat
IMF
REA
SC
$T
$M
VALUE
-
73
754
1137
-
-
-
0.25
3.03
14.96
35.00
-
-
EPD
6.3
-1.3
38
63
9
28
3.4
-0.02
0.2
1.41
0.9
112.18
29.28
ACC
.38
.64
.56
.55
.20
-
.23
.50
.58
.52
.52
-
-
26
The Beefmaster Pay Weight
continued from page 25
the table by not breeding for cattle that can have higher marbling scores without sacrificing yield. Because we use marbling as a selection tool, we are able to capture those kinds of added premiums,” Bates said.
at the data, was low dry matter conversions and a zero percent death loss,” Bates said. Cattle feeder Mark Sebranek said dry matter conversions are really important and can have an impact on cost to gain, especially with the increased corn prices and volatility of grain prices. “So, it costs the producer less because it doesn’t take as much feed to make these cattle gain,” Sebranek said. “I’ve been impressed with the quick advancements the producers have been making with these Beefmaster calves.” After his average price per head increased by almost $200 from the first set of calves to the second, Skelton said he quickly learned he was leaving $200 to $300 per head on the table by marketing his weaned calves at the sale barn. Likewise, Jerry Glor from Halfway, Missouri, said he prefers retaining ownership through the feedyard due to the premiums he receives for his straight bred Beefmaster calves, and selling on the grid provides him a way to market his steers. “It’s not unusual for Beefmasters to grade Choice or better, and I really enjoy seeing those kinds of premiums for my calves at the feedyard,” Glor said. Despite the industry misconception that Beefmasters do not grade well, these producers have experienced a high percentage of their Beefmaster calves grading Choice or better. A majority of Skelton’s cattle grade Choice, and Bates said 76 percent of his last group graded Choice or above
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and 15 percent qualified for Certified Angus Beef (CAB), which accounted for a $62 per head premium. Of those that qualified for CAB, one head was 3/4 Beefmaster and 1/4 Angus while the rest were
straight bred Beefmaster. “The industry’s perception is Beefmaster cattle typically do not excel in quality grades; however, you’re just leaving money on
Beefmaster and Beefmaster cross cattle do combine efficiency, quality grade, and they add on pounds which Sebranek emphasized is the biggest profit driver in the feedyard. “We have seen the improvement in performance, dry matter conversions and quality grades in these cattle,” continued on page 27
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disease resistance in addition Sebranek said, “but at the end to a stringent of the day, pounds are what In terms of profitability, vaccination regimen pay.” Bates said their margins were we implement here slightly larger in their straight As much as the results at home,” Bates said. bred Beefmaster cattle as from the feedyard tell a compared to the AngusAll of these producer where he can crossed calves primarily producers have improve, data can also show based on dressing percentage fed cattle during what producers are doing and yield. Of their last different seasons correctly. Hot carcass weight group harvested, the average throughout the year, is what gives Beefmasters dressing percentage was 65.1 so they experienced the competitive advantage. percent, average yield grade some of the harshest A highly heritable trait, was 3, and hot carcass weight West Kansas winter, dressing percentage is what averaged 895 pounds. as well as the harsh packers are paying for, and summer, proving Beefmasters certainly deliver. Beefmaster and Beefmaster cattle Beefmaster cross cattle can “The biggest advantage perform well in a also attribute success in the I see with Beefmaster cattle gauntlet of climates feedyard to their hardy traits is in dressing percentage,” from South Texas to and natural ability to fight Sebranek said. “In some the Kansas plains. diseases. In the seven years cases, when the Choice and Skelton has fed out his calves “I can’t control Select spread is lower, we in the feedyard, his death loss the markets, but I actually see the Beefmaster remains 0.22 percent while focus on what I can cattle bring more than Bates’ death loss is 0 percent. control like genetic Angus, Hereford and other Pounds pay, and feeders don’t selection and animal breeds just because of make payouts on dead calves. wellness,” Bates said. dressing percentage. These “We are not in the cattle feeding business. We are in the seedstock business, but the reason we do feed out some cattle is because I know these Beefmaster cattle can be profitable in the feedyard, and it helps us make better breeding decisions Beefmaster cattle hang up a That includes feed, for our customers. nice large carcasses with large medicine, yardage, The more data we rib-eyes.” processing expense and utilize and pass on insurance. The health bill is Sebranek compared a to our customers, an added input cost. So, the 700-pound Prime Angus the more informed healthier the calves, the lower carcass and a 900-pound decisions they can the expenses, the more profit Select Beefmaster make.” in your pocket. carcass. Because pounds pay, Sebranek said, the “In my opinion, death loss Beefmaster carcass is likely is one of the greatest keys. to bring a higher premium. These Beefmaster cattle go With the advancements in into the feed yard with an DNA testing and genetic increased natural immunity Brittni Bates markers, there is an as compared to English and Freelance Writer unparalleled opportunity Continental breeds, and that’s for producers to more easily just because of their natural
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improve quality grades than ever before.
WITTENBURG BEEFMASTERS Established 1968 BBU Lifetime Member
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Hans Wittenburg Owner H: 361-782-2882 M: 361-782-8122 Joe Wittenburg Manager H: 361-782-7318 M: 361-782-1898
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29
Rancho del Cielo: Heaven on Earth By Jeralyn Novak, Beefmaster Breeders United Stunning. Gorgeous. Remote. Heaven-onEarth. These four words describe Rancho del Cielo. This ranch is a 40,000 acre working ranch located on the northern edge of the Davis Mountains in Far West Texas. It has two main operations: raising commercial cattle and managing a hunting program focused on raising Desert Mule Deer of outstanding quality. Rancho del Cielo, translated Heaven Ranch in Spanish, is the perfect description for this humble piece of land that is tucked away, an hour from any grocery stores. When I visited this ranch in the fall I was greeted with a warm welcome from the ranch manager Jesse King and his wife Dayla, and of course their little cowboy. This trio lives, eats, breathes the ranch life and it is evident that they love the cattle and wildlife that they manage. I visited the ranch to view their Beefmaster sired calves
that were about to be weaned off their Angus cows, but little did I know that my eyes would be filled with more gorgeous images than just powerful Beefmaster cross calves. Before I get too caught up in the cattle, here is a little background on the ranch. Rancho del Cielo is a commercial cow/calf operation. They raise a small number of commercial seed stock using the genetics of registered Angus bulls with their best commercial Angus cows, creating a commercial bull that not only will have quality genetics and confirmation, but is raised in a rough mountain terrain, and can adapt and travel well on any ranch. The ranch has hardy nutritious grasses and forage that the cattle do very well, and maintain an excellent body condition in the most arid of environments. The same qualities are possessed by the replacement heifers raised on
Rancho del Cielo, as well.
Heifers.
Rancho del Cielo has in recent years begun breeding a portion of their commercial Angus cow herd with registered Beefmaster bulls. This produces a crossbred market steer with a larger body mass, high tolerance to heat, as well as a capacity to travel well and stay sound on a rough and rugged terrain. In addition to market steers, they offer replacement heifers that are eligible to be enrolled in a program with Beefmaster Breeders United for Certified E6 Commercial
The ranch also offers three types of commercial hunting opportunities. These include Management Mule Deer Buck hunts, Trophy Aoudad Sheep hunts and Javelina hunts. Rancho del Cielo is a low fenced ranch that has native wildlife, as well as some introduced species that are typical to the area. The ranch is rich in biodiversity and—while one of the main operations is raising cattle—overall the ranch is under very little
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continued from page 29
winter and dry spring. They raised big calves for first calf heifers.”
grazing pressure. Wildlife management is one of the main priorities at Rancho del Cielo. Another main priority is raising dynamic cattle, that order buyers want and feedlot managers demand. In order to meet and exceed this demand, the ranch started using Beefmaster bulls on their commercial Angus cows in 2013. One of the main reasons they started using Beefmaster bulls to cover their cows was because their sister ranch - Chaparrosa Ranch of La Pryor, Texas has been raising Beefmaster cattle for several decades in
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the brush of South Texas. So they had an easy supply chain of Beefmaster cattle and genetics. However, once Rancho del Cielo saw the progeny produced by these powerful bulls, they had many more reasons to keep covering their cows with
Beefmasters. “The Beefmasters have adapted well to the high desert here,” says King. “We kept the first crop of heifers from the Beefmaster cross to make cows and they have done very well despite a dry
The steers were 40 – 60 pounds heavier than the straight Angus steers the ranch raised, according to King. “And the feedlot manager we sold them to wants more and loved the cattle so much he retained ownership and will be buying more in the future.” I mentioned earlier that Rancho del Cielo is remote country – like no cell service, CB radio remote – but I haven’t mentioned how vast this ranch is. The cows on this ranch earn their keep and receive minimal supplementation, so it is pertinent that these cows and heifers maintain good body condition in a harsh environment. They also travel long distances, where elevation varies from 4,500 to 6,000 feet above sea level, for water and forage. While doing all of this, they are able to raise and wean 600 pound or more calves. Impressive! “I have noticed that our E6 females use the country a lot more than our straight Angus cows,” King said. “They get around good on this rough country and maintain sound feet and legs.” The success of the ranch’s crossbreeding program has gained momentum, so much, that in 2015 the ranch was asked to participate in a sire evaluation project, funded by the Beefmaster Educational Endowment Foundation. The sire evaluation project was developed to record the feed efficiency of contemporary genetics to better position the Beefmaster breed to address beef cow efficiency issues. In the spring of 2016, King and his crew artificially inseminated (AI) 100 of their commercial Angus cows with continued on page 31
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continued from page 30 three different Beefmaster sires. The breed up rate by AI was 60% and three cleanup Beefmaster bulls were put with the cows. The Rancho del Cielo calves produced from this sire evaluation program hit the ground in early 2017 and exploded with growth, just as the other Beefmaster progeny had in the past years. According to King, 75% of the calf crop were black hided, with the remaining calves being solid dark red. As part of the sire evaluation program the ranch collected all progeny data and collected birth weights. “The calves have put on the gain and I am excited to see how they do in the feedlot,” said King. At the time of my visit, King projected the average
weaning weight for the steers would be around 750 lbs., and possibly even more due to summer rains. “The calves are phenomenal and I am very pleased with them,” King said. “The Beefmaster cross calves have done nothing but grow.” After the calves were a few months old, in May 2017, the ranch crew and
Beefmaster Breeders United staff collected DNA samples from each of the calves. The
Rockfield, KY
DNA samples were used to parent verify and identify which sire produced each calf. Through identifying which bull sired each calf, BBU will be able to evaluate the sires, their progeny and how they perform in the feed efficiency portion of the project. King was so pleased with the calves produced through the program that in the
spring of 2017, he and his crew AI’ed the same set of commercial Angus cows with
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Beefmaster bulls. As part of the project, the weaned steers were fed out in a feedlot and through utilizing a GrowSafe system their feed intake data was collected. The weaned heifers were retained by the ranch as replacement females. The data results from this project, and other ranches participating in the sire evaluation project, will be collected for use in Beefmaster research and marketing. A set of Beefmaster sired calves owned by the University of Arkansas at Monticello have also completed the GrowSafe section of the project. The data generated from this project will also help the association develop future genetic selection tools that will be helpful to commercial cattlemen that utilize Beefmaster genetics. continued on page 32
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continued from page 31
During my visit I was impressed with how beautiful the cattle were and how the West Texas landscape painted a perfect back drop for their beauty. The ranch produces some of the most stunning sunsets and sunrises I have ever seen, and even more stunning cattle. The cattle not only look great, but they perform and they are thrifty, raising 700 – 800 lb., steers on little to no supplementation. I was also left in awe at how the cattle and wildlife coexisted and complemented each other. While checking cows on this
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ranch you will most likely see Mule Deer, Pronghorns and possibly an Aoudad sheep. Altogether, this ranch under the big West Texas sky has it together and they are producing efficient, functional and productive Beefmaster cross cattle.
Jeralyn Novak
Communications Coordinator Beefmaster Breeders United
RWG Twin Oaks Randall, Brenda and Matthew George 38 Twin Oaks Lane Flintville, TN 37335 931.581.1127 Mobile twinoaksfar@aol.com
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33
How DNA Testing Will Affect the Accuracy of EPD Information By Bob Weaber, Kansas State University & Matthew Spangler, University of Nebraska Introduction
genetic change in their herds. Today, EPDs are widely Selection decisions in accepted across the industry the beef industry have been and are used frequently by fostered by the development producers making seedstock and delivery of Expected selection and purchase Progeny Differences (EPD) decisions. The degree of for a wide variety of traits confidence in an individual and across all major US beef animal’s EPDs is described breeds. Since the early 1970’s, numerically by a computed EPDs have been used by value called ‘Accuracy.’ seedstock and commercial Accuracy values in the US are beef producers to make scaled reliabilities and range
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from 0 to 1 representing the amount of information used to compute the EPD. An animal with accuracy values near zero has very little data available for evaluation while an animal with accuracy of 0.99 has a very large amount of information evaluated.
information is needed.
Genomic information gives an accurate picture of what alleles an offspring inherited from its parents in the form of Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNP), and has always held the promise to increase the accuracy Improvements in EPD of EPD. This promise has accuracy have historically finally been realized for been driven by phenotypic those breeds that had breedrecord collection directly specific training populations on the trait of interest or on that enable genotypic indicator traits. For traits information to be translated like stayability or length of into genetic merit estimates productive life, the evaluation (i.e. Molecular Breeding of a sire’s daughters is Values (MBV)) that can be typically completed long after incorporated into genomicthe bull has been removed enhanced EPD calculations. from production. For other Studies have shown that traits like carcass weight, genomic information cannot marbling score, and rib-eye be accurately translated into area, the animal must be MBV for complex traits harvested or ultrasound (i.e. those controlled by information collected as many genes) in the absence indicator trait data. There of breed-specific training are costs associated with populations. collecting and processing One key advantage of phenotypic data. To achieve MBV is that this information high levels of accuracy a can be garnered early in great deal of progeny and/or the life of the animal thus grand progeny data must be enabling an increase in the included in the evaluation. accuracy of EPD particularly Timing is Everything on young animals, which have not yet produced Accuracy values for bulls progeny. Ideally, MBV data purchased by commercial should be used to increase producers as yearlings will the accuracy of the EPDs be low. In most cases only of young animals prior the bull’s own performance to any selection decisions records for traits observed (performance based culling) before sale day and pedigree made at the seedstock level. information will be included Seedstock genetic trends in his EPD calculations. For and subsequent genetic flow the maternal traits like heifer to commercial producers pregnancy, stayability and will only be improved if maternal milk no daughters seedstock producers actually will have been produced use the genomic-enhanced so only pedigree estimate EPDs to make selection or interim EPDs will be decisions for animals that available, and these EPD will be retained as breeding have low accuracies. In order animals and offered for sale to improve the accuracy to commercial producers. of the EPDs of yearling continued on page 34 bulls another source of
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continued from page 33
being included in EPD are comprised of 50,000 (50K) Genotyping a group of SNP, although some breeds animals immediately before utilize 80K panels and some sale after all selection has are moving towards reduced been completed does nothing (e.g. 20K) panels with the to improve genetics of the aid of imputation (essentially population; it only fosters using information from marketing efforts and only the population to “replace” allows for better selection missing genotypes). The decisions within a highly research community is selected subset of the sale commonly using 50K, 80K offering. or 770K genomic tests for discovery of “novel” traits The US Beef Industry (i.e. feed efficiency, disease has witnessed considerable susceptibility). evolution in terms of the genomic tests available Implementation in the market place. The tests that are currently The underlying question
Hargis Ranch
commonly asked by producers is “Do genomic tests work?” It is critical to understand that this is a somewhat ambiguous question, as the true answer is not binary (i.e. yes or no). The important question to ask is “How well do genomic tests work?”, and the answer to that question is related to how much of the genetic variation the genomic test explains. The benefit will be dependent upon the proportion of genetic variation (%GV) explained by a given genomic test. The %GV is equal to the square of the genetic correlation multiplied by 100. Table 1 shows the relationship between the genetic correlations (true accuracy),
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that is correlated to the trait of interest. Combining the genomic information with traditional sources of EPD information increases the accuracy of the resulting genomic-enhanced EPD and this has the potential to increase the rate of genetic change by both increasing the accuracy of selection, and decreasing the generation interval. This latter component of the breeder’s equation would be particularly impacted if young sires are used more frequently as a result of the increased confidence in their genetic superiority due to added genomic information. Figure 1 illustrates the benefit of incorporating genomic information
Table 1. The relationship between true accuracy (r), proportion of genetic variation explained (%GV), and Beef Improvement Federation (BIF) accuracy.
%GV and Beef Improvement Federation (BIF) accuracy. BIF accuracy is the standard for all U.S. beef breeds. Molecular Breeding Values should not be thought of as a separate independent predictor of genetic merit, but rather as a potentially useful indicator THREE GENERATIONS OF QUALITY BREEDING Bulls available at Private Treaty or at the following sales: Texoma Beefmaster Sale
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into a genomic-enhanced EPD on accuracy (on the BIF scale) when the MBV explains 40% of the genetic variation (GV), which is synonymous with an r2 value of 0.4. The darker portion of the bars shows the EPD accuracy before the inclusion continued on page 35
Figure 1. Increase in accuracy from integrating genomic information that explains 40% of the genetic variation into Estimated Breeding Values (EBV).
genomic information into EPD dissipate when EPD accuracy is between 0.6 and 0.7. On the other hand, when %GV is 40, an animal with 0 (zero) accuracy could exceed 0.2 accuracy with genomic information alone. This would be comparable to having approximately 4 progeny for a highly heritable trait or 7 progeny for a moderately heritable trait (Table 2).
Table 2. Approximate number of progeny needed to reach accuracy levels (true (r) and the BIF standard) for three heritabilities (h2).
continued from page 34
calculation. As the %GV increases, the increase in of genomic information EPD accuracy becomes and the lighter colored larger. Additionally, lower portion shows the increase in accuracy animals benefit accuracy after the inclusion more from the inclusion of the MBV into the EPD
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The Beefmaster Pay Weight
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of genomic information and the benefits decline as the EPD accuracy increases. Regardless of the %GV assumed here, the benefits of including
Although the American Simmental Association (ASA) was the first to augment their Warner continued on page 36
Performance Tested Black & Red Beefmaster Bulls & Females FOR SALE McKenzie’s Beefmasters Kendall & Vivian McKenzie 57426 Hilltop Church Road Angie, LA 70426 985-848-5468 985-335-7123 5M Beefmasters Geary & Ann McKenzie 54081 Hwy 62 Franklinton, LA 70438 985-848-5800 985-515-2306
Triple Threat CED
BW
WW
VALUE
-
72
EPD
7.9
Percentile
1
YW
Milk
TM
CEM
SC
775 1,105
-
-
-
-4.1
35
61
6
23
1
15
10
90
35
REA
Herd Bulls Also Include: Exodus - a CHRK Genesis son CED
BW
WW
YW
Milk
TM
CEM
SC
REA
IMF
FAT
$T
$M
IMF
FAT
$T
$M
VALUE
-
61
740
870
-
-
-
36.00
10.17
2.01
0.12
-
-
39
16.40 2.66
0.21
-
-
EPD
5.0
-1.4
27
45
10
23
1.3
0.6
0.25
0.2
-0.04
77.96
22.35
1.1
1.1
0.06
0.2
-0.01 106.20
23.57
Percentile
15
10
35
45
35
35
95
25
45
10
20
40
20
95
5
65
10
95
10
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CED
BW
WW
YW
Milk
TM
CEM
SC
REA
IMF
FAT
$T
$M
VALUE
-
62
800
1,307
-
-
-
39.00
14.59
3.34
0.31
-
-
EPD
5.4
-0.9
44
71
9
31
3.8
1.1
0.27
0.4
0.00
127.10
28.55
Percentile
10
15
5
5
50
5
10
5
40
1
95
5
5
BEEFMASTER Cattle Sale Saturday, April 21 – 12 Noon
Crockett, Texas – Porth Agricultural Arena 1100 Edmiston Dr. (off of East Loop 304), Crockett, TX 75835
Selling herd bulls, herd bull prospects, 3-N-1s, pairs, bred cows and heifers & open heifers: screened to meet East Texas/Louisiana’s high standards for quality and condition. For more info and to request a sale catalog, contact sale manager Anthony Mihalski 210-648-5475 or 210-415-0888. East Texas/Louisiana Beefmaster Marketing Group - 38th Annual Sale Join us for a fun weekend!
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The Beefmaster Pay Weight
continued from page 35 Bratzler Shear Force EPD with genomic information, several other breeds have adopted this technology and others are in the process of collecting sufficient records to develop breed-specific training populations. Research has shown moderate to high genetic correlations between several traits of interest and MBV in multiple breeds when the animals the test is used on are within the same breed as the training data set used to develop the MBV. However, it has also been clearly demonstrated that when a MBV developed in one breed is used in a different breed, even a closely related breed (e.g. Angus and Red Angus), the genetic correlation drops substantially. This shows the unfortunate breed specificity issues surrounding these
tools. This is consistent with other results that show the predictive power of MBV begin to erode as the genetic distance between the training and target (or evaluation) populations increase. This would be expected overtime as animals in the training data used to develop the MBV become more distantly related to animals currently being evaluated with the genomic test. This is why these tools need to be “retrained” or “re-calibrated” periodically. Some breeds do not have the luxury of immediately having thousands of genotyped animals for use in developing breedspecific training populations. Consequently, the use of a robust across-breed set of genomic prediction equations would be beneficial. There are two primary methods of constructing an across-
breed training data set: pool purebred animals from multiple breeds or use crossbred animals. The first option requires the use of EPD, corrected for differences in accuracy, as “phenotypes” for training similar to the within breed scenario with the exception of correcting for breed effects in the model. The second option requires the use of adjusted phenotypes (corrected for contemporary group effects, sex, etc.) to train the genomic predictors. Although pooling animals of different breed together in training can be useful, it only helps if it will be used in breeds that were represented in the training data. Conclusions Genomics and the corresponding MarkerAssisted or GenomicEnhanced EPD, have become a reality. Within-breed
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genomic predictions based on 50K genotypes have proven to add accuracy, particularly to young bulls, for several traits. The push going forward will be the adoption of this technology by other breed associations. Furthermore, methodology related to the use of this technology in crossbred or composite cattle is critically needed. The crux of adoption will be getting commercial bull buyers to see the value in, and thus pay for, increased EPD accuracy. There is still a need to collect and routinely record phenotypic information by seedstock producers. Commercial producers need to realize that EPDs, and economic index values, are the currency of the realm for beef cattle selection. Genomic technology only makes these tools stronger, it does not replace them.
11/27/17 10:19 AM
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2018 Beefmaster Sale Calendar March 02, 2018 - Houston Magic XVIII, Houston, TX March 02, 2018 - South Texas BBA Futurity Sale, Houston, TX March 03, 2018 - Beefmaster Promotion Group International Beefmaster Gala Sale, Houston, TX March 17, 2018 - Texoma Beefmaster Sale, McAlester, OK March 24, 2018 - Emmons Ranch Bull Sale, Groesbeck, TX March 31, 2018 - Southeastern BBA Dixie National Sale, Tunica, MS April 07, 2018 - Louisiana BBA Rose Capital Classic, Shreveport, LA April 14, 2018 - Collier Farms Advantage Sale, Giddings, Texas April 14, 2018 - Ozark & Heart of America Sale, Springfield, MO April 21, 2018 - East Texas/Louisiana Beefmaster Marketing Group - 38th Annual Sale, Crockett, TX April 29, 2018 - National Beefmaster E6 Commercial Female Sale, Columbus, TX May 05, 2018 - Southern Alliance Marketing Group Sale, Cullman, AL May 12, 2018 - Live Oak BBA Pick of the Pen Offering Spring Sale, Three Rivers, TX May 12, 2018 - Heart of Central States Sale, Locust Grove, OK May 19, 2018 - Emmons Ranch Production Sale, Fairfield, TX May 19, 2018 - Midwest Beefmaster Bull Sale @ Shining R Ranch, Lamar, MO June 09, 2018 - 4B Ranch Beefmaster Production Sale, Waskom, TX June 23, 2018 - Clark Jones & Cottage Farms Southern Tradition XVIII, Savannah, TN August 25, 2018 - Rio Grande Valley Beefmaster Sale, Alice, TX September 15, 2018 - J&T Farms and San Gabriel Beefmasters Production Sale, Rockdale, TX September 15, 2018 - Arkansas Beefmaster Fall Classic Graded Sale at Mid State Fairgrounds, Damascus, AR September 29, 2018 - Flint Hills Classic Sale, Paxico, KS October 06, 2018 - Lyssy Beefmasters “Heart of the Herd” Production Sale, Luling, TX October 20, 2018 - Carr & Others Fall Sale, Floresville, TX October 20, 2018 - Beef on Forage Beefmaster Bull Sale, Brenham, TX November 03, 2018 - Louisiana Cowboy Classic, Lake Charles, LA November 10, 2018 - 2nd Fall Harvest Production Sale, Savannah, TN November 17, 2018 - Collier Farms Performance Bull Sale, Brenham, TX *sale catalogs posted online a few weeks before sale date at www.beefmasters.org/purebred/calendar.php*
We will be offering progeny by 12/2 in the Collier Farms Advantage Sale & Collier Farms Performance Bull Sale in November. BOTARD 12/2
Member of Advantage Program
Triple B Beefmasters – Bill Botard (830) 460-1595 • bbotard@gmail.com “Where Look & Performance Meet”
We look forward to seeing you at the Advantage Sale on April 14, 2018!
Progeny also for sale at the ranch!
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Advertisers’ Index Breeder Advertisers Alabama Arrow T Beefmasters...............................................................................19 New Cut Farms Beefmaster......................................................................21 Arizona Western States Beefmaster Breeders.......................................................33 Arkansas Double L....................................................................................................22 Hood Beefmasters......................................................................................6 California Cherry Glen Beefmasters.........................................................................25 Walking M Cattle Co................................................................................19 Western States Beefmaster Breeders.......................................................33 Colorado Western States Beefmaster Breeders.......................................................33 Idaho Western States Beefmaster Breeders.......................................................33 Kansas Double L....................................................................................................22 Flint Hills Classic Sale ..............................................................Back Cover Kentucky Channarock Farm.....................................................................................31 Louisiana McKenzie Beefmasters.............................................................................35 Louisiana BBA Rose Capital Classic Sale................................................10 Missouri Berachiah Beefmasters.............................................................................19 Midwest Beefmaster Bull Sale.................................................................14 Mountain View Ranch..............................................................................21 Ozark & Heart of America BMG Spring Sale........................................17 Wallen Prairie Ranch................................................................................21 Mississippi Cain Cattle Co...........................................................................................24 Nevada Western States Beefmaster Breeders.......................................................33 Oklahoma Dance Creek Beefmasters.........................................................................19 Hargis Ranch.............................................................................................34 Hood Beefmasters.......................................................................................6 Kreger Ranch.............................................................................................32 Texoma Beefmaster Sale.............................................................................4
Tennessee Cottage Farms...........................................................................................20 Jones Beefmasters.....................................................................................23 RWG Twin Oaks.......................................................................................32 Ty Agee Beefmasters.................................................................................16 Texas Arrowhead Ranch.....................................................................................19 B M W Beefmasters.................................................................................18 Buena Suerte Ranch..................................................................................19 Casey Beefmasters....................................................................................19 Collier Farms....................................................................................12 & 13 Colvin Beefmasters...................................................................................11 East Texas/Louisiana Beefmaster Marketing Group Sale...................35 Flying B Ranches......................................................................................29 Genesis Beefmasters...................................................................................9 Golden Meadows Ranch............................................................................3 H.T. Chapman Beefmasters.....................................................................20 Isa Cattle Co. Beefmasters.......................................................................15 J R Land and Cattle Co. ............................................................................20 Rancho Dos Vidas....................................................................................21 ROMP Beefmasters Enterprise...............................................................21 San Pedro Ranch.........................................................................................7 Swinging B Ranch.......................................................................................5 Triple B Beefmasters.................................................................................38 V7 Beefmasters / Anderson 7C Ranch......................................................8 Wittenburg Beefmasters..........................................................................27 Utah Western States Beefmaster Breeders.......................................................33
Industry Advertisers Bush Hog....................................................................................................14 Elgin Breeding Service.............................................................................28 Hudson Livestock Supplements..............................................................30 Irsik & Doll Feeding Service....................................................................26 John Deere.................................................................................................37 Ritchie.......................................................................................................36 Stafford Beef Ultrasound..........................................................................20
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The Beefmaster Pay Weight
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presents
SEPTEMBER 29, 2018 PAXICO, KANSAS SELLINGpresents 100 SUPERIOR BEEFMASTER BULLS & CHAROLAIS BULLS 150 + BEEFMASTER E6 HEIFERS FLINTHILLSCLASSIC.COM
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