In this fall issue... Foothill Abortion vaccine journey reaches end furious fire season rages on west coast vote no on prop 15 October 2020 California Cattleman 1
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REG: 44035238|ID 13G|Sire: NJW 73S 3304 GUNSLINGER 86D ET REG: P44043213|ID 33G|Sire: NJW 73S 3304 GUNSLINGER 86D ET REG: P44043225|ID 51G|Sire: NJW 73S 3304 GUNSLINGER 86D ET
BW 2.8 • WW 53 • YW 89 • REA .51• $CHB 110
BW 2.4 • WW 59 • YW 96 • REA .72• $CHB 118
BW 3.0 • WW 60 • YW 99 • REA .52• $CHB 106
LOT 40
LOT 48
LOT 51
REG: 19636755|ID 3G|Sire: EXAR POWERSOURCE 4723B
BW 3.3 • WW 57 • YW 102 • REA .39• $B 145
REG: 19638622|ID G114|Sire: MGR TREASURE
BW -.7 • WW 45 • YW 90 • REA .45• $B 135
REG: 19528003|ID G26|Sire: Jindra Acclaim
BW 1.5 • WW 61 • YW 119 • REA .37• $B 153
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October 2020 California Cattleman 3 LambertRanchHerefords.com
CALIFORNIA CATTLEMEN’S ASSOCIATION ______________ Since 1917
1221 H Street Sacramento CA 95814 (916) 444-0845
Patience Versus Perseverance by CCA President Mark Lacey
One of the things that I find unique about ranching is that we don’t just invest capital; we invest time. I’m not just talking about long working hours. I’m talking about months, years, lifetimes and generations that we invest in developing our cowherds, ranches, horses and even dogs. This my friends is perseverance, and is the primary reason that six-generation ranch families like mine and why CCA have been around for 100 years. The concept of time as it relates to ranchers is a fascinating contrast of mental conditioning. I think of it in two types of behavior. First, is patience which is defined as “The capacity to accept or tolerate delay, trouble, or suffering without getting angry or upset.” Does that sound like ranchers to you? We probably don’t want to ask their spouses. However, I do think ranchers have patience for certain things, mostly the things they can control like waiting nine months for a calf or a month to cut hay. But for things they can't control like rain, markets and government, forget about it. I’m not sure patience is a virtue, but in many cases it is advised. You know the saying about an oyster and patience? When I hear that, the first thing that comes to mind is passivity, and passive doesn’t describe the ranchers I know. I think of patience as more short-term and as more of an emotion. Perseverance on the other hand is a second behavior I relate to ranchers. Perseverance is defined as “Continued effort to do or achieve something despite difficulties, failure or opposition.” See that sounds like there should be a picture of a rancher in the dictionary. Ranchers work for years on genetic improvement. We implement management practices that take decades even generations to see the results. As a matter of fact, the results of regulations we are forced to implement out live the bureaucrats or politicians that create them, but the not ranchers (i.e. forest management). I described patience as more short-term, or as an emotion, but I think of perseverance as being long-term, and as more of a trait, but it’s not passive. You see in the analogy of an
oyster there is a catch. At the end of all that patience, in most cases there is no pearl. However, perseverance reminds me of a remark about geology being the study of pressure and time. This compares to ranching because with hard work and time we change, adapt and in the end, we achieve a result. That is why we are able to produce more beef on less land with a smaller carbon footprint because of the improvements we make in genetics, management practices and animal health. That long digression of what I believe to be the strengths of ranchers, and CCA since it was created by ranchers is to acknowledge what the results of perseverance look like. In September, it was announced that USDA had issued a conditional license for Hygieia Biological Labs to commercially produce, and provide a Foothill Abortion Vaccine. This outcome is the result of decades of research by the University of California, UC Davis, University of Nevada, Reno, Jeffrey Stott, Ph.D., and Myra Blanchard, and Hygieia. Thank you to all those entities for their contributions. Additionally, the CCA Livestock Memorial Research Fund (LMRF) made a large investment. I want to thank the members of that committee for their fundraising efforts as well as their decades-long persistence in pursuing a vaccine that benefits cattle producers. I wouldn’t want to miss this opportunity to point out the benefits and value of CCA. The vaccine is one example of results. LMRF has also made an investment in Anaplasmosis research, awards scholarships to large animal veterinarians and also worked to get injectable copper produced again. So, if someone asks you why it is worth joining CCA you might start by mentioning a few of those examples. I pray that by the time this is published all the fires are out. I can’t tell you how sorry and disappointed I am for all our friends and neighbors.
SERVING CALIFORNIA BEEF PRODUCERS SINCE 1917 Bolded names and businesses in editorial represent only current members of the California Cattlmen’s Association or California CattleWomen, Inc. For questions about your membership status, contact the CCA office at (916) 444-0845. The California Cattleman (Publication # 8-3600) is published monthly except July/August is combined by the California Cattlemen’s Association, 1221 H Street, Sacramento, CA 95814, for $20/year, or as part of the annual membership dues. All material and photos within may not be reproduced without permission from publisher.
4 California
Periodical postage paid at Jefferson, Mo. National Advertising Group: The Cattle Connection/The Powell Group, 4162-B Carmichael Ct, Montgomery, AL 36106, (334) 2716100. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: Cattleman October 2020 California Cattleman, 1221 H Street, Sacramento, CA 95814
OCTOBER 2020 Volume 103, Issue 9
ASSOCIATION PERSPECTIVES CATTLEMEN’S COLUMN Ranchers persevere
4
BUNKHOUSE CCA moves forward amid change
8
YOUR DUES DOLLARS AT WORK 12 Prop 19: Another thorn in our side NATIONAL PERSPECTIVE 18 The right to be heard COUNCIL COMMUNICATOR Summer promotions prove successful
SPECIAL FEATURES
Legislative session brings wins for CCA Cal Poly loses ranch in extreme fire season Grazing to reduce fire fuel load Conservation at work
READER SERVICES
As fall is ushered in after a long, hot summer and cattle producers face a harsh fire season up and down the west coast, this month's cover photo, shot by photographer Jeanne Provost, shares an image cattlemen and women can relate to. From dry, dusty soil to an all too common smoky horizon, ranchers' resilience is a theme we have seen echoed across decades, but hits especially close to home in 2020 as the challenges they face are as cumbersome as ever.
28
HERD HEALTH CHECK 32 Fall and winter precautions PROGRESSIVE PRODUCER Ranch-to-fork research
ON THE COVER
36
14 22 26 40
Cattlemen’s Report 48 Obituaries 50 Wedding Bells and New Arrivals 51 Buyers’ Guide 52 Advertisers Index 58
AS CALIFORNIA SEEDSTOCK PRODUCERS ARE IN THE MIDST OF ANOTHER SUCCESSFUL BULL SALE SEASON, WE WANT TO REMIND EVERYONE THAT DURING THIS UNPRECEDENTED YEAR INDIVIDUAL SITUATIONS UP AND DOWN THE STATE REMAIN FLUID AND CAN CHANGE AT ANY MOMENT. PLEASE STAY TUNED TO SOCIAL MEDIA AND INDUSTRY PUBLICATIONS AS THESE SITUATIONS EVOLVE SO YOU CAN MAKE THE MOST OF THIS SALE SEASON AND YOUR PURCHASING DECISIONS.
October 2020 California Cattleman 5
Oregon Bull & Female Sale Thursday, October 15, 2020 at Noon
Thomas Big Data 9859
19628536
CED +11 BW +.7 WW +60 YW +111 Milk +26 MRB +.98 RE +57 $B +161 $C +245
19739477
CED +6 BW +2.8 WW +81 YW +145 Milk +24 MRB +.79 RE +.79 $B +170 $C +279
Sire: Thomas Big Data 7435 • Dam’s Sire: Thomas Grade Up 6849 $Profit: $22,310; $Ranch $49.35 A maternal brother to Thomas Xpansion 5810!
Thomas Weigh Up 9761
Sire: Plattemere Weigh Up K360 • Dam’s Sire: SAV Net Worth 4200 $Profit: $17,439; $Ranch $37.68 A full brother to Thomas Big Data!
Thomas Enhance 9709
19740291
CED +4 BW +2.8 WW +69 YW +139 Milk +30 MRB +.63 RE +.71 $B +185 $C +282
Sire: SydGen Enhance • Dam’s Sire: EF Commando 1366 $Profit: $25,127; $Ranch $46.98
Thomas Enhance 9647
Sire: SydGen Enhance • Dam’s Sire: Thomas Big River 4081 $Profit: $21,091; $Ranch $42.71
Thomas Xpansion 9915
19738228
Sire: Thomas Xpansion 5810 Dam’s Sire: Bon View New Design 208
CED +1; BW +4.0; WW +66; YW +128; Milk +27 MRB +.75; RE +1.31; $B +201; $C +317
$Profit: $19,287; $Ranch $25.66
6 California Cattleman October 2020
19740306
CED +16 BW -.8 WW +71 YW +137 Milk +29 MRB +.94 RE +.80 $B +177 $C +295
Thomas Erica 9143
19638612
Sire: SydGen Enhance • Dam’s Sire: GAR Sunrise $Profit: $25,078 Due 2/27/21 to RCC Prophet Time 031.
Thomas Miss Lucy 5588
19638612
Sire: GAR Prophet • Dam’s Sire: Connealy Confidence 0100 $Profit: $17,557 Due 10/4/20 to Thomas Big Data 7435.
CED +8 BW +.9 WW +71 YW +126 Milk +26 MRB I+1.08 RE I+.63 $B +176 $C +296
CED +12 BW +.1 WW +60 YW +111 Milk +36 MRB +.95 RE +.36 $B +140 $C +245
Thomas Miss Liberty 8496
19412916
Sire: Thomas Navigator 5771 Dam’s Sire: Connealy Confidence 0100 $Profit: $12,387 Low PAP female with a score of 36 at 7,200 ft Due 3/18/21 to RRC Prophet Time 031.
Thomas Lucy Rose 5554
18398392
Sire: GAR Prophet • Dam’s Sire: Connealy Confidence 0100 $Profit: $21,567 Due 10/4/20 to Thomas Big Data 7435.
Thomas Erica 8396
CED +13 BW +.4 WW +47 YW +94 Milk +28 MRB +.54 RE +.66 $B +134 $C +234
CED +5 BW +1.7 WW +81 YW +137 Milk +27 MRB +1.35 RE +.63 $B +184 $C +298
19280351
Sire: Baldridge Command C036 Dam’s Sire: Baldridge Waylon W34 CED +8; BW +.7; WW +66; YW +120; Milk +24 MRB +1.18; RE +.46; $B +179; $C +280 $Profit: $19,160 Due 10/29/20 to Thomas Jefferson 55602.
42734 Old Trail Rd. • Baker City, OR 97814 Rob & Lori Thomas - Office: (541) 524-9322 Rob’s Cell: (541) 403-0562 • Lori’s Cell: (541) 403-0561 Cole Owens, Marketing Specialist & Cooperative Manager: (918) 418-7349 www.thomasangusranch.com info@thomasangusranch.com
Sale Managed by:
Keep informed of updates and information by following our social media profiles: Thomas Angus Ranch ThomasAngusRanch
517.546.6374 www.cotton-associates.com
@thomasangusranch
flyingt_angus
thomas-angus-ranch
View the sale videos at www.thomasangusranch.com
October 2020 California Cattleman 7
BUNKHOUSE
UNFORESEEN EVENTS amid change, cca remains a constant by CCA Director of Finance Lisa Brendlen When I wrote my last California Cattleman article back in April, at the very beginning of this pandemic, I never imagined that six months later we would still be experiencing such significant impacts of COVID-19 in our daily lives. We all have had to continue to adjust to the ebbs and flows of a world unlike anything that we have ever experienced. For your CCA staff it has been particularly challenging having to cancel so many of our events this year. When we cancelled Legislative Breakfast back in March, I was optimistic that would be the only event we would have to cancel. As the months ticked on, however, it became clear that we wouldn’t have the opportunity to hold our Feeder Meeting in San Diego or our Mid-Year Meeting in Paso Robles. In an effort to continue to be resilient and keep our membership informed of what we are working on in Sacramento, CCA did have its first ever virtual Mid-Year Board Meeting in August. While it was not the same as being in Paso Robles, the meeting was well-attended and by all accounts a success. During the virtual Midyear Meeting, the CCA Board decided that due to the state of Nevada’s gathering restrictions imposed to prevent the spread of COVID-19, CCA must cancel the 104th Annual CCA & CCW Convention & Tradeshow previously scheduled to take place in Reno, Nev. this December. CCA leadership is developing a plan for moving forward with policy committee meetings and the Annual CCA Board of Directors meeting in another format. More details on these plans will be available in the weeks to come. We look forward to the opportunity to connect with each of you either in person or virtually. I know for me the best part of working for CCA is the members. Our events offer a fun opportunity for staff to spend time with the membership, so the hardest part of the last six months is that we haven’t been able to spend time with our members; we miss you! While we haven’t been able to connect with
8 California Cattleman October 2020
you all face-to-face at local association meetings or other events to share what we are working on daily in Sacramento, we want you to know that we are HERE working for you and that there are still ways for you to get involved at the state level! Our priority is and has always been to keep ranchers ranching, and we strive to achieve this goal every day. The issues LISA BRENDLEN affecting the ranching industry are different in every county across the state, and we need to hear directly from you about which issues are impacting your day-to-day operations at the local level. Never hesitate to call our office with any questions or concerns. Here in the CCA office I am working on closing the 2019/2020 fiscal year, which is hard to believe. Thanks to our dedicated members, I am pleased to report that this year CCA once again ended up in the black. In addition, I am preparing for our annual visit with our current auditors, SingletonAumen. Once our audit is complete—and with the analysis of the auditors and assistance from the CCA staff and the officer team—I will begin preparation of the budget for the 2020/2021 fiscal year. The proposed budget will then be presented at the Board Meeting in December and voted on by the membership and board members. 2020 has been a rollercoaster of a year so far, but we are charging ahead and looking forward to the time when we can all meet in person again. In the meantime, I want to reiterate that the CCA staff is here to support our members in any way that we can. We are in the office and available should you have any questions or concern.
THE CENTRAL CALIFORNIA LIVESTOCK MARKETING CENTER
JOIN US FOR OUR FALL MARKETING EVENTS... SATURDAY, OCTOBER 3
FALL CALVING FEMALE SALE & CALIFORNIA BREEDERS BULL SALE
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SAVE THE DATE! DECEMBER 8
14TH ANNUAL SPECIAL FEEDER SALE & CUSTOMER APPRECIATION DAY
SALE DAY IS PAY DAY...
When marketing calves at TLAY, don't forget how essential the 2nd round of shots is. Make sure to include a modified live vaccination. CALL US TO LEARN MORE ABOUT CONSIGNING CATTLE TO UPCOMING WESTERN VIDEO MARKET SALES! JOIN US OCT. 22 IN COTTONWOOD AND IN RENO DEC. 2!
FROM THE SIERRAS TO THE SEA, OUR TEAM IS ALWAYS HERE TO ASSIST YOU IN MEETING YOUR BUYING AND SELLING NEEDS! TLAY REPRESENTATIVES
MAX OLVERA...................................... 209 277-2063 STEVE FARIA ...................................... 209 988-7180 EDDIE NUNES..................................... 209 604-6848 BUD COZZI .......................................... 209 652-4480 JOHN LUIZ ........................................... 209 480-5101 BRANDON BABA............................... 209 480-1267 JAKE BETTENCOURT ....................... 209 262-4019 TIM SISIL ............................................ 209 631-6054 TRAVIS JOHNSON ............................ 209 996-8645
TURLOCK LIVESTOCK AUCTION YARD OFFICE:
209 634-4326 • 209 667-0811 10430 Lander Ave., Turlock, CA P.O. Box 3030, Turlock, CA 95381 www.turlocklivestock.com
October 2020 California Cattleman 9
foothill abortion vaccine now available to cattle producers After decades of research, money and hopes being poured into finding a vaccine for Epizootic Bovine Abortion (EBA), commonly known as Foothill Abortion Disease, a vaccine is now available for producers to obtain through veterinarians. The announcement was made by Hygieia Biological Laboratories (Hygieia) Sept. 3 after the United States Department of Agriculture Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service’s Center for Veterinary Biologics gave conditional approval for the vaccine to become commercially available. “The news that Hygieia has received a conditional license to provide EBA vaccine to California's beef producers is amazing, as this disease is responsible for millions of dollars in losses to California beef producers annually,” said Tom Talbot, DVM, a veterinarian and past California Cattlemen’s Association (CCA) President. “As a veterinary student many years ago, I spent time working for researchers who were confident they would be the ones that would provide a solution for this disease,” Talbot said. “Little did I know at the time that it would be several decades later before this day would actually arrive. Congratulations to all of those who had a role in this endeavor.” Due to the lengthy process it takes to develop a new vaccine, it is not uncommon for new products with no existing substitutes, such as the EBA vaccine, to first enter the market with a conditional license. With CCA’s support, the vaccine has been on experimental trial since 2015 and has remained as one of the Association’s top research priorities for decades. “This license to produce EBA vaccine is the result of many years of hard work by CCA, UC Davis, Jeffrey Stott, Ph.D., Myra Blanchard and Hygieia," CCA President Mark Lacey said. "Additionally, a large investment was made to help develop this vaccine by our Livestock Memorial Research Fund. I commend the members of that committee for their fundraising efforts and commitment to the goal of creating a vaccine that will benefit our members." In addition to the investments CCA and its members have made, efforts by the University of California and the University of Nevada, Reno, have been vital in leading to this vaccine. The announcement of conditional licensure signifies
10 California Cattleman October 2020
big news for range cattle management in the west, as it means that the vaccine is now available to producers commercially. Utilized to prevent fetal loss in first-calf heifers from the bacteria Pajaroellobacter abortibovis, the vaccine will now be available through local livestock veterinarians. The vaccine is available in convenient 30-dose vials and can be given to open animals of at least 6 months of age, at least 60 days prior to the initiation of breeding. Foothill Abortion Disease, is often misunderstood and challenging to diagnose. Because of this, losses are difficult to calculate but even a conservative estimate exceeds $10 million annually in California, Oregon and Nevada alone. This license marks a pivotal advancement in decreasing those substantial losses and comes as the result of decades of work by generations of scientists and cattlemen. First described in the 1950s by researchers at the University of California, Davis, School of Veterinary Medicine (UCD), subsequent collaborations between UCD, the University of Nevada, Reno, and later the California Cattlemen’s Association, proved invaluable in expanding the understanding of the disease and how to manage it. Grants such as the UC Regents Proof of Concept Grant, the Russell L Rustici Rangeland and Cattle Research Endowment, as well as support from the Livestock Memorial Research Fund and the UC Department of Animal Science, continued to support the efforts and, after joining with Hygieia, commercialization of a vaccine has become a reality. A decade of vaccine trials, including a trial with CCA members that started in 2015, have been conducted to establish the safety and efficacy of the product. According to Stott, the lead researcher at the UC Davis Veterinary School, "The vaccine has proven safe and phenomenally effective; the fervor for its widespread availability is palpable among cattle producers." Hygieia-manufactured vaccine has been used for the past two years in these trials. Since the license was issued, although cattle markets and prices will continue to fluctuate, beef producers now have a vaccine to combat foothill abortion losses. To learn more about the vaccine, email Jenna Chandler at jenna@hygieialabs.com.
SHASTA LIVESTOCK AUCTION YARD, INC. UPCOMING EVENT LINEUP... SHASTA COUNTY CATTLEMEN’S SPECIAL BREEDING STOCK AND REGULAR SALE
CATTLEMEN’S SPECIAL
CATTLEMEN’S SPECIAL
THE LOCAL CATTLEMEN’S ASSOCIATIONS.
3917 Main Street Cottonwood, CA 96022 Brad Peek, General Manager, (916) 802-7335 Davin Lower, Sale Barn Manager, (530) 864-0673
For Information, contact Shasta Livestock (530) 347-3793 Visit our website www.shastalivestock.com or follow us on Facebook and Instagram for updates. October 2020 California Cattleman 11
YOUR DUES DOLLARS AT WORK
PROPOSITION 19
CCA REMINDS OF ANOTHER ONE TO WATCH AT THE BALLOT BOX by CCA Director of Government Affairs Kirk Wilbur With a dozen propositions on this year’s General Election ballot, California voters have their work cut out for them if they’re to cast an informed vote. Two of those propositions—Proposition 15 and Proposition 19—relate to real property taxation and are therefore of particular relevance to California’s cattle ranching families. While Proposition 15 has been extensively discussed in CCA publications (and you can learn more at www.defeatprop15. com), Proposition 19 has garnered less attention. Below is an overview of Proposition 19 to help inform your decision on November 3 (CCA’s Board of Directors has not taken a formal stance on Proposition 19). Under existing law—1986’s Proposition 60—a homeowner over the age of 55 is allowed a onetime transfer of the taxable value of their home to a replacement home of equal or lesser value located within the same county, without incurring a tax reassessment (1988’s Proposition 90 permitted transfer to another county if that county agreed to participate in the program). Proposition 19 would allow a homeowner over the age of 55, a disabled homeowner or a victim of a natural disaster such as a wildfire to transfer the taxable value of their home to a home of any value located anywhere within the state. For transfer of taxable values to homes of greater value, the taxable value of the replacement property would be stepped up based on the difference in cash value between the original and replacement properties. A homeowner who is over 55 or disabled could utilize this transfer upwards of three times in their lifetime, while the victim of a natural disaster would still be limited to a one-time transfer (assuming that the individual is under 55 and not disabled). Existing law, Proposition 58 (1986), allows a parent to transfer a principal residence to a child (including via inheritance) without a reassessment on the home’s taxable value. Proposition 193 (1996) extended this provision to transfers between grandparents and grandchildren. Proposition 19 would eliminate this exemption on tax reassessment in circumstances in which the child or grandchild does not use the inherited property as their principal residence. Where the property is used as a rental property or vacation home, for 12 California Cattleman October 2020
instance, a reassessment of the taxable value of the home would occur. Additionally, if the inherited property has a market value above $1 million, an upward adjustment in the assessed value of the home would occur even where the child or grandchild does use the home as their primary residence. Perhaps most relevant to farmers and ranchers, Proposition 19 increases the value of farmland, including land used for pasture or grazing, which may be inherited from a parent or grandparent without being subject to a tax reassessment. Under existing law, “the purchase or transfer of the first one million dollars ($1,000,000) of the full cash value of [non-residential] real property between parents and their children” is exempt from tax reassessment. The value of the farm or ranch in excess of $1 million, then, is subject to reassessment under current law. Proposition 19 would extend this exemption to $1 million plus the current taxable value of the farm or ranch. Any assessed value in excess of that sum would be subject to a tax reassessment. Finally, Proposition 19 dictates how additional property tax revenues generated under the Proposition would be allocated. Specifically, 75 percent of the additional revenues from Proposition 19 would go to a newly created California Fire Response Fund, used to fund fire suppression activities. 15 percent would go to the County Revenue Protection Fund, which would be used to reimburse counties for revenue losses related to the measure's property tax changes.
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October 2020 California Cattleman 13
Successful Session
2020 LEGISLATIVE SESSION RECAP SHOWS POSITIVE RESULTS DURING CHALLENGING YEAR by CCA Vice President of Government Affairs Kirk Wilbur The 2019-20 California Legislative Session gaveled to a close at 1:29 a.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 1, closing out a chaotic year in Sacramento. The emergence of COVID-19 in March not only upended Governor Gavin Newsom’s proposed budget and the legislature’s policy priorities (the homelessness crisis being foremost among them)—it upended the very process of legislating. Legislators took an early spring recess in mid-March amid the growing pandemic, not returning for 45 days. After two Assemblymembers tested positive for COVID-19 in early July, the Summer Recess was likewise extended. Even the typicallyfrenetic final week of session got an added injection of chaos after Senator Brian Jones (R-Santee) tested positive for COVID-19. Jones had been in close contact with most of the Senate Republican Caucus, forcing every Republican Senator other than Sen. Jim Nielsen (R-Tehama) to quarantine and legislate remotely. Despite the year’s challenges, CCA had an incredibly successful year before the California Legislature. Below are the bills that rose to the forefront of CCA’s advocacy efforts this year—though by no means every bill CCA engaged on this session—and their status as of press time. Governor Newsom has until the end of September to act on bills advanced to his desk. (Note that this may not be the last word on 2020 legislation—it is entirely possible that Governor Newsom could call one or more special sessions to address the COVID-19, wildfire and homelessness crises facing the State.) AB 2196 (Gonzalez) – Small-Dollar Loans Enrolled & Awaiting Governor’s Action • CCA Supported Current law establishes the Pilot Program for Increased Access to Responsible Small Dollar Loans, aimed at increasing the availability of affordable, credit-building installment loans not to exceed $7,500. AB 2196 would extend the Pilot Program through January 1, 2028. The Pilot Program could provide access to financing for producers entering the ranching business or growing their existing business. AB 2566 (C. Garcia) – Consumption-Based GHG Inventory – Held in the Assembly • CCA Opposed AB 2566 would have required the California Air Resources Board to create and track a consumption-based greenhouse gas emissions inventory only for animal products for human consumption. The bill was aimed at “Reducing animal food intake and eating more plant foods,” according to a fact sheet from the author’s office. AB 2645 (Nazarian) – Animal Advocates Held in the Assembly • CCA Opposed AB 2645 would have allowed a court to appoint an “animal advocate” to represent an animal in any judicial proceeding involving the “welfare, care, or custody of an animal.”
14 California Cattleman October 2020
AB 2959 (Calderon) – Byproduct Hauling Held in Senate Environmental Quality Committee • CCA Opposed AB 2959 would have allowed local governments to subject the byproducts of food processing to exclusive waste hauling agreements if those byproducts originated from “retail and commercial establishments such as supermarkets, grocers, restaurants, and other retail food establishments.” The bill would allow local governments and haulers to “capture” those byproducts as waste diverted to uses such as composting in furtherance of landfill-reduction goals set in statute. The bill would not have applied to “industrial sources” of byproducts such as breweries or depots/warehouses. The bill nevertheless could have diminished the availability of byproducts for use in livestock feed, particularly given the ambiguity of the term “commercial.” AB 3030 (Kalra) – Land Conservation Held in Senate Appropriations Committee • CCA Opposed This bill would have made it the goal of the state to protect 30% of California’s land area and waters by 2030. AB 3030 defined “protection” as “the establishment of enduring measures” that conserve land’s “natural character.” While the bill was merely goal setting, it is unclear what lands would have qualified as “protected” (estimates of land currently ‘protected’ range from 22-47% depending on interpretation). Additionally, it is unclear how regulators would have implemented the 30% goal and whether livestock grazing would have been compatible with land ‘protection.’ SB 54 (Allen) – Solid Waste: Packaging and Products Held in the Assembly • CCA Neutral The California Circular Economy and Plastic Pollution Reduction Act would have required plastic packaging and "priority" single-use products sold in California to be recyclable or compostable. CCA was successful in securing amendments to the bill that would have largely exempted meat packaging from the bill’s requirements, allowing us to take a neutral position on the legislation. SB 55 (Jackson) – CEQA Revision Held in the Assembly • CCA Opposed SB 55 was a late-session gut-and-amend effort to reintroduce elements of Jackson’s SB 950 (see below), which was held in the Senate Environmental Quality Committee. SB 903 (Grove) – Grand Theft of Agricultural Equipment Enrolled & Awaiting Governor’s Action • CCA Supported Existing law, 2019’s SB 224 (Grove), requires that fines and penalties imposed for grand theft of agricultural equipment be allocated to regional Rural Crime Prevention Programs. SB 903 ...CONTINUED ON PAGE 16
October 2020 California Cattleman 15
....CONTINUED FROM PAGE 14 is a “clean-up” bill that provides that these funds will be allocated according to the Rural Crime Prevention Program schedule already detailed in the Penal Code, giving the State Controller’s Office the ability to properly distribute the funds. SB 950 (Jackson) – CEQA Revision Held in Senate Environmental Quality Committee • CCA Opposed SB 950 sought to make numerous revisions to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), including requiring public agencies to consider environmental justice within CEQA analyses. Many of the amendments—such as broad translation requirements and the addition of a second public comment period for environmental impact reports—would have provided project opponents additional opportunities to abuse CEQA’s administrative process or created new grounds for opponents to challenge projects in court. SB 1011 (Dahle) – Water Quality Held in the Senate • CCA Supported This bill would have provided that an “agency implementation plan” between a land management agency (such as the US Forest Service or Bureau of Land Management) and the State Water Resources Control Board
(SWRCB) satisfies waste discharge and waste discharge reporting requirements of the Porter-Cologne Water Quality Control Act. The bill would have potentially curtailed the SWRCB’s duplicative non-point source regulatory efforts on federal lands in the Lahontan and Central Valley regions. SB 1159 (Hill) – COVID-19 Workers’ Compensation Signed into law by Governor • CCA Opposed SB 1159 would codify the Governor’s Executive Order on COVID-19-related workers’ compensation. For employees that test positive for COVID-19 within 14 days of performing work at the place of employment at the employer’s direction, the bill would establish a rebuttable presumption that the employee contracted COVID-19 at the workplace if: (1) five or more employees test positive at a workplace with between 6-100 employees, or (2) 5% of employees test positive at a workplace with more than 100 employees. The employer would have 30 days to rebut the presumption. (No rebuttable presumption would attach to employers with five or fewer employees.) SB 1383 (Jackson) – Expanded Family Leave Signed into law by Governor • CCA Opposed SB 1383 would require any employer with five or more employees to grant an employee’s request for up to 12 workweeks of protected unpaid leave during any 12-month period to bond with a new child or to care for themselves or a family member.
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WHAT ARE THE IMPACTS OF PROP 15? #1 ENDs prop 13 protections The ballot measure has a staggering price tag of $11.5 billion per year in property tax increases, repealing Prop 13’s protections for commercial and industrial properties that have provided California ranchers with economic certainty and stability.
#2
TAXES skyrocketing
#3
rangelands vanishing
Property taxes will increase on agricultural buildings and improvements, and nearly everything needed to move food from farm to fork. Structures like barns and feedlots will be heavily taxed; even fruit trees and vines will be subject to higher property taxes.
The very landscape of California is on the line. Prop 15 gives counties a tax incentive to zone land away from agriculture, and Prop 15’s increased tax liability will force some ranchers and farmers to sell their land to developers, eliminating open spaces and California’s breathtaking vistas.
NO
ON PROP 15 ON NOV. 3RD
How You Can Help defeat it • Visit DefeatProp15.com to get more information to share with friends! • Add the CCA “Protect Family Ranches, Defeat Prop 15” Facebook frame to your profile picture to publicly share that you oppose Prop 15. • Write a letter to the editor to your local newspaper about the measure. Download a guide to writing one at www.noonprop15.org/take-action. • Explain why Prop 15 would threaten your ranch or family’s small business at www.noonprop15.org/share-your-story.
Ad paid for by the California Cattlemen’s Association October 2020 California Cattleman 17
NATIONAL PERSPECTIVE
DEFENDING YOUR RIGHT TO BE HEARD
NCBA FIGHTING FOR YOUR INTERESTS IN D.C. AND BEYOND by National Cattlemen's Beef Association Chief Executive Officer Colin Woodall NCBA is nothing without grassroots engagement and leadership. A simple statement, but one that is not always appreciated by members and detractors alike. However, the grassroots process was on full display during the Cattle Industry Summer Business Meeting in Denver. It started with the commitment by NCBA’s officer team to have the meeting in-person, and to also allow virtual engagement to ensure that everyone who wanted to participate in debate had that option. While some may have questioned the decision to meet, we proved we could do it safely. We also proved once again that we can adapt, overcome and persevere in the face of disruptions. Our team worked tirelessly to set up the technology and process to hold the hybrid virtual and in-person meetings, and while it may have taken much longer to vote than it usually does, every vote was counted and the process was conducted with integrity. The outcomes may not have pleased everyone, but nobody can question the respectful forum we provided for discussion and voting. Our grassroots process was put to the test with the marathon six-hour Live Cattle Marketing Committee Meeting. It’s been a while since we’ve had a spirited debate like that. That spirited debate demonstrated that our process works because it was producer members debating in a committee led by producers that resulted in actions voted on by producers. It’s also very important to note that the big packers did not attend or vote. This was a producer discussion. Cattle production takes place in all 50 states, but the issues and concerns of cattle producers vary greatly. What concerns producers in Michigan may not be the same concerns impacting cattle production in Hawaii. That is the challenge we have as a national association, and it is all the more reason to have robust debate. We can’t allow that debate to tear us apart, because we are stronger when we speak as one industry. Our voice on Capitol Hill has the sway it does because we are the oldest and largest national association representing cattle producers. The fact we advocate on behalf of member-directed policy reinforces that we are the voice of cattlemen and cattlewomen in Washington. Being heard transcends the policy process. The producer members of our Executive Committee also 18 California Cattleman October 2020
determined that there is no need to fight the process currently underway to gather signatures on a petition calling for a referendum on the future of the Beef Checkoff. It was our association that helped get the Beef Promotion and Research Act passed as part of the 1985 Farm Bill. It includes a provision that allows for producers to take action to determine if the checkoff needs to continue. We helped include that provision, and we fully respect and support producers who want to sign the petition. Our only request is that the process be transparent and above board. To date, we have seen at least one attempt to get producers to sign the petition by offering to enter their names into a drawing for $100. We’re proud of the Beef Checkoff and the work we do as a contractor, and we see this current scenario as a way to showcase that work. While the Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner. tagline typically gets a lot of attention, there is much more to the work we do as contractors. Our checkoff-funded nutrition research and outreach has been a powerful tool in our efforts to keep beef at the center of the plate during review of the 2020 Dietary Guidelines for Americans. If we were to lose our place on the guidelines, it would impact our ability to have beef served in schools, military bases and other Federal programs. The nutrition research conducted would be much harder to complete without the checkoff investment. We hope producers keep this fact in mind as they decide whether to sign the petition. Regardless of the venue or issue, your voice deserves to be heard, and NCBA will continue to provide that opportunity. Those who question that or tell you that the packers make the decisions were not at our Summer Business Meeting and flat out don’t know what they are talking about. I’ll close the way I started by saying that we are nothing without your engagement and leadership.
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Western Hemisphere Agriculture Leaders emphasize value of maintaining trade flow Following the virtual G-20 Agriculture and Water Ministers Meeting hosted by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on Sept. 12, top agricultural officials from five Western Hemisphere countries – Argentina, Brazil, Canada, Mexico and the United States – issued the following statement underscoring the importance of maintaining agricultural trade flows during the COVID-19 pandemic and emphasizing their commitment to remaining reliable suppliers of food and agricultural products to the world: “We, the Agriculture Ministers of Argentina, Brazil, Canada, Mexico and the United States, express our deepest condolences for the tragic loss of life being endured around the world as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and convey our strong appreciation for all workers in the health, agricultural and other front-line sectors, who selflessly dedicate their efforts to the benefit of others." “As we face the effects of this crisis, reliable and resilient agricultural supply chains remain essential to guarantee the availability of safe, nutritious food around the world. Our nations have taken the measures necessary to keep agricultural supply chains operational, ensuring the continued production and distribution of safe, quality products, while safeguarding the health and welfare of agricultural sector workers. We are open for business and you can count on us for safe and high-quality food." “As Western Hemisphere agricultural leaders, whose countries represent 35 percent of global exports in agricultural products, we reiterate the importance of maintaining agricultural trade flows, while avoiding unjustified trade-restrictive measures, in order to keep markets open and ensure global food security, especially to those most vulnerable. We underscore the guidance published by the United Nations Food and Agricultural Organization and the World Health Organization on April 7, 2020, which states, ‘there is no evidence to date of viruses that cause respiratory illnesses being transmitted via food or food packaging,’ and we call on trading partners to allow trade to flow without undue delay or unjustified requirements." “We will continue to work with our partners and with relevant regional and international organizations to exchange information, enhance coordination, and strengthen our global response to the crisis." “Looking at the aftermath of this pandemic, we recognize that agriculture will be an important engine for economic recovery. Innovation and technological development will be vital to guarantee that food systems develop sustainably to feed the world’s growing population. How we emerge from this crisis will be our greatest legacy for a future of global food security and nutrition.” 20 California Cattleman October 2020
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October 2020 California Cattleman 21
A HARD LOSS FIRE TAKES OUT CAL POLY'S SWANTON PACIFIC RANCH By Ching Lee
Reprinted with permission from the California Farm Bureau Federation
Recent wildfires have burned some of the state's educational and research properties, with university staff and officials still assessing losses and how to move forward. An educational and research ranch managed by Cal Poly San Luis Obispo was perhaps the most notable college property to be hit, and wildfires also burned six reserves in the University of California Natural Reserve System. The Cal Poly Swanton Pacific Ranch in Santa Cruz County suffered destruction to much of its property and structures when the CZU Lightning Complex fires swept through parts of Santa Cruz and San Mateo counties [in August.] The 3,200-acre working ranch is known for its forestry activities, grass-fed beef program and organic crop production. [Weeks later,] access to the ranch remained restricted due to ongoing spot fires, downed power lines and sinkholes, university spokeswoman Haley Marconett said. A full assessment of the damage, she added, will take weeks, perhaps even months. Though cleanup has started, "it could take years for us to resume the level of production that we were at with some of our operations," said Brian Dietterick, director of the ranch. The historic research property was donated to the
college in 1993 by late Cal Poly alumnus and Orchard Supply Hardware founder Al Smith, who wanted the site maintained exclusively for agricultural, recreational and educational purposes. Seven of the ranch's nine houses, used by university staff, students, guest instructors and other visitors, "burned to the ground," Dietterick said. The infrastructure on the sites is being assessed to determine if they could be occupied with temporary housing and whether permanent facilities could be rebuilt at those locations. In addition, two classrooms, along with computers and infrastructure that provided high-speed internet to the ranch, were completely lost. Dietterick said the university is initially looking to restore phone service and then internet to at least a portion of the ranch. "There are a lot of things that are being thought about right now," he said, noting that cleanup at each facility is "not as straightforward as it might seem," due to potential hazardous waste and protocols that must be followed. Though most of the ranch's apple trees survived the fire, Dietterick said he doubts the orchard will open for U-pick, which typically starts around Labor Day weekend. Some of the crop may be recovered, he added, "but some of those decisions have yet to be made." Fewer than 50 head of cattle remained on the ranch at the time of the fire and were safety transported to the main campus; some of the animals have since been sold. The ranch typically runs about 300 head of cattle from January through June as part of its grass-fed beef program. Because much of the rangeland and water infrastructure for livestock burned, Dietterick said, it's yet to be determined where the ranch's resident herd will be housed in the long term. "We're currently assessing all the work needs and the ability to bring people back in a temporary-housing situation," so they can work on projects such as restoring livestock water and tending to crops, he said. ŠPORTERFIELD One initial priority is to salvage the existing water system Charred rangeland at Swanton Pacific Ranch.
22 California Cattleman October 2020
that delivered water to about 75 percent of the ranch for replaced, she added, noting that the sensors themselves more than 10 years. Even though there is a well on the seem to have survived largely unscathed. property, lack of power and destruction of several backup Other researchers have not been able to visit burned generators have made distribution of that water limited sites to monitor their experiments, due either to ongoing to one location initially. Dietterick said that means the live fires or safety concerns, including damaged roads and ranch's operations and educational programs would be facilities that were surrounded by fire and hadn't yet been "significantly scaled back for some time." certified as safe for use, Wong said. Salvaging timber from the site will also need to She said some UC scientists are eager to begin postoccur within the first year, to ensure wood quality is not fire assessments on topics such as how fire has affected compromised, he added. assemblages of aquatic invertebrates and anadromous fish Research related to watershed and forestry after a populations and movements at Landels-Hill Big Creek fire will also be initiated "pretty quickly," Dietterick said. Reserve in Big Sur. Other UC scientists want to document Classes that study fire ecology and watershed management the acres and vegetation that burned, to study post-fire for erosion "will want to come here," he said, though it's regeneration, she added. unclear how soon the ranch will be able to accommodate As for UC Cooperative Extension, Pam Kan-Rice, that type of usage and learning, for safety reasons. It's also spokeswoman for UC Agriculture and Natural Resources, uncertain how soon the ranch will be able to host field said farm advisors and other extension specialists continue trips, which are normal activities during the academic year. to provide service to farmers and other Californians. No Dietterick said campus officials have made clear they intend to rebuild the ranch, a large part of which is covered UCCE offices had to evacuate or suffered property damage due to fire. by insurance. Wildfires in the UC Natural Reserve System consumed nine buildings, a vehicle and acres of grassland, forest, chaparral and other natural habitat, said Kathleen Wong, spokeswoman for the system. Though there has not yet been official tabulation of setbacks to research projects conducted at the reserves, she said there could be "many" that have been interrupted or lost. "Our severely understaffed ŠCAL POLY reserves are literally still sweeping up the ashes and Swanton Pacific Ranch entrance prior to the fire. conducting safety checks," she said. The SCU Lightning Complex fires burned cables connected to soil moisture and temperature probes at Blue Oak Ranch Reserve in San Jose, severing connection to the data logger/transmitter, Wong said. In that case, experiments related to the UC California Heartbeat Initiative, which studies the availability of water in the state's ecosystems, suffered a temporary loss of ŠCAL POLY data from those instruments, A before and after image of the Al Smith Training House at Cal Poly's Swanton Pacific Ranch. she said. The cables can be October 2020 California Cattleman 23
Fire-Affected Ranchers Encouraged to Seek Wildfire assistance by Anita Brown for NRCS California Most California ranchers are familiar with the can become a source of sediment and debris. Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) which is If there is still a fair amount of green vegetation on the widely used to support prescribed management tools including landscape, there’s a good chance those plants will recover and fencing and watering structure that help distribute and manage there is also a good chance that viable seeds remain in the soil. livestock across the landscape. Given some precipitation, new grass and forbs can be expected A special version of EQIP—called Catastrophic Wildfire to follow. Seeds on severely burned landscapes, on the other Recovery—is especially important in 2020, says Carlos hand, may have likely been “cooked” in the inferno. How to Suarez, state conservationist for USDA’s Natural Resources know for sure? Conservation Service (NRCS) in California. “Ranchers can use A couple of options to consider are an at-home test or Catastrophic Wildfire EQIP for three years following wildfires consulting a local laboratory, according to Norman. “You can to replace much of their prescribed management infrastructure. recover seeds from the soil and do your own tests with nothing The program can also be used for erosion control, seeding, more technical than some moist paper towels and a little clearing waterways of post-fire debris and dozens of other patience to see if they germinate,” she says. Or you can opt for practices,” says Suarez. a laboratory tetrazolium—or TZ—test. The at-home test can The federal fiscal year begins Oct. 1, 2020 and California give you a general idea of seed viability. The laboratory test will anticipates receiving funding soon after that for Farm Bill tell you seed viability as well as species composition—although programs, including EQIP and Catastrophic Wildfire Recovery these can be costly. Check with your local NRCS or Resource EQIP, he says. “We intend to make funding available for Conservation District for a list of local laboratories. ranchers and others affected by wildfires as soon as the money As a general rule, Norman says, you can expect 50 to 70 and funding tools are released,” says Suarez. percent of your normal vegetative cover following a moderately In the interim, Suarez encourages ranchers to make an intense fire. By the second year, typical cover increases to 80 appointment with the local USDA Service Center as part of percent and by the third year you should be getting close to their recovery strategies. Both NRCS and the Farm Service normal. In a more intense fire, all of these recovery times could Agency (FSA) have programs that can help in the traumatic take about 25 percent longer. aftermath of wildfires, he says. When vegetation does return, you can expect the composition to shift as well, says Norman. Landscapes that WORKING WITH A LOCAL CONSERVATIONIST were dominated by grass may tend towards forbs and/or Kristan Norman from Petaluma is one of several USDA invasive species, which may require management. This shift NRCS rangeland management specialists who have extensive may be temporary, as grass species can compete with nonexperience helping ranchers assess and plan for their land desirables once reestablished. following wildfires. The rangeland infrastructure—such as culverts, cross “On a positive note, nature is extremely resilient,” says fencing, storage tanks, pipelines and troughs may also have Norman. “Lightly burned areas may recover quickly and most suffered damage in the fire. Getting these back into good burned grasslands are back to normal in three years.” working order are necessary to return to a healthy grazing Put safety first, cautions Norman. Allow time for the fire to operation. cool completely before getting out on the land. Use this time to put together files that may be helpful to yourself, NRCS, FSA, PLOTTING A PATH FORWARD: insurance adjustors or other you may turn to for assistance. If Your NRCS conservationist will help you make a accessible, gather your farm records, maps, conservation plan, conservation plan to nudge nature in the direction that supports receipts and—once it is safe to get them—pictures of damages a return to a healthy landscape and healthy livestock. or losses to start the recovery process. An important component of the recovery plan will be addressing soil erosion in a site-specific way appropriate for EXAMINING POST-WILDFIRE NATURAL your ranch. “Don’t assume that your neighbor’s approach RESOURCES ON YOUR LAND matches your situation,” cautions Norman. From a natural resource perspective, some of the key things As already noted, vegetation in most cases will return on to focus on will be erosion, water quality and the ability of its own, though invasive species may require management. the vegetation to recover at a level and composition that will Reseeding, critical area planting and herbaceous weed treatment support livestock,” says Norman. All of these considerations are all post-fire treatment options. can be greatly influenced by the severity of the fire. Finally, rangeland infrastructure including access roads, Burned land, stripped of its protective vegetative cover, is culvert systems, fencing and water tanks and troughs may prone to erosion—and the greater the slope of the land the need to be repaired due to the fire or fire suppression greater the tug of gravity. Valuable topsoil is pulled to lower activities. “Some of these can be addressed by NRCS and lying places—often a creek or water body where water quality the Catastrophic Wildfire Recovery funds. Other needs—like may be compromised and the chance of flooding increased. perimeter fencing—may be covered by FSA. It makes sense to Soil on severely burned land may be further damaged by check both agencies as well as local and state programs.” hydrophobicity—or a varnish-like layer forged in the fire— that Over 40 practices are available through the Catastrophic can then repel water and worsen runoff. Wildfire Recovery program. See your local USDA service Extra care may be needed where emergency access roads center for a complete list and for assistance with conservation and fire-fighting equipment disturbed the landscape since these planning. 24 California Cattleman October 2020
PROTECT CALIFORNIA'S FARMING AND RANCHING FAMILIES...
VOTE
NO
ON PROP 15 ...THIS COULD BE THE MOST IMPORTANT VOTE YOU WILL EVER MAKE. PROUDLY PAID FOR CATTLEMEN'S LIVESTOCK MARKET October 2020 California Cattleman 25
Benefits of Cattle Grazing for Reducing Fire Fuels and Fire Hazard by UC Cooperative Extension researchers Felix Ratcliff, Devii Rao, Sheila Barry, Luke Macaulay, Royce Larsen, Matthew Shapero, Shane Dewees, Max Moritz, Rowan Peterson and Larry Forero The widespread and severe wildfires in California during the past several years highlight the importance of understanding how land management practices such as cattle grazing affect wildfire risk. The California Cattle Council recently funded a University of California (UC) Cooperative Extension project to evaluate how much fine fuel (grasses and other plants) are eaten by cattle on rangelands, and how this may affect wildfire behavior. These results have not yet been published, but preliminary results are presented here. Cattle Numbers The study found that about 1.8 million beef cattle grazed Californiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s rangelands, which include grasslands, oak woodlands and brushland or scrubland, in 2017. Beef cows were by far the most abundant beef cattle class, with 677,000 on range in the state. This was followed by steers, heifers and bulls. Fuel Removal by Cattle Beef cattle are found grazing in every county in California, except San Francisco and they consumed 11.6 billion pounds of fuel in 2017. Our analysis which was based on county crop reports, Agricultural Census data and UC Cooperative Extension data showed that cattle consumed vegetation across about 19.4 million acres of rangeland, primarily privately-owned. However, some grazing also occurs on federally-owned and other public lands too, especially in the mountain and desert regions of the state. The amount of fuel consumed per acre varied greatly FIGURE 1. BEEF CATTLE GRAZING REGIONS OF CALIFORNIA
based on region (Figure 1). The average amount of fuel removed across grazed rangelands in the state was 596 pounds per acre. This number varied from 174 pounds per acre in the southeast interior region to 1020 pounds per acre in the San Joaquin-Sierra Region (Figure 2). Fine fuel reduction on any given ranch can differ greatly (either higher or lower) from the region-wide estimates in this study. Figures 3, 4 and 5 respectively show examples of 500, 1,200 and 3,000 lbs./acre of grassland vegetation. These fuel removal estimates are based on the best available data, but this data does not describe the complex details and variation of cattle grazing across the state. There is a need for more consistent and accurate accounting of cattle numbers and grazed acres across the state to better understand grazingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s impact on fire fuels. These regional values of fuel removal are much lower than the amount of vegetation or forage that grows naturally in these regions in most years. Valley grasslands in the interior of the state generally produce 2,000 pounds of forage per acre or more in an average year. Coast range grassland sites in central and northern California generally produce more than 3,000 pounds of forage per acre. Coastal prairie sites can be highly productive, producing more than 4,500 pounds per acre on average in the central coast. The highest production years can see double the average production in any given region, and the lowest production years can be less than 25 percent of average production. The relatively low amounts of fuel removal reflect conservative stocking strategies, which are used by many ranchers across the state as a way to guard against drought and the unpredictable nature of forage production. Influence of Cattle Grazing on Wildfire Behavior Maintaining flame lengths below four feet is often cited as a critical threshold that allows fire fighters to safely access an area from the ground without heavy equipment. Fire behavior models developed for this study suggest that FIGURE 2. POUNDS PER ACRE OF FUEL REDUCTION ON GRAZED RANGELANDS IN EACH REGION, BASED ON COUNTY CROP REPORTS
26 California Cattleman October 2020
maintaining fine fuels at or below 1200-1300 pounds per acre during spring and summer will keep flame lengths below four at wind speeds up to 40 mph. This number is affected by other factors however, and during very dry weather conditions, fine fuels may need to be kept at or below 800 pounds per acre to keep flame lengths below 4 feet. These numbers are useful for interpreting the impacts of reducing fuel levels, but they still need to be experimentally validated in California. In addition to reducing fine fuels, cattle grazing can also reduce rangeland fuels by preventing or slowing FIGURE 3. 500 LBS./ACRE OF GRASSLAND VEGETATION
FIGURE 4. 1,200 LBS./ACRE OF GRASSLAND VEGETATION
FIGURE 5. 3,000 LBS./ACRE OF GRASSLAND VEGETATION
encroachment of brush and trees onto grasslands. This is valuable from a fire safety perspective because brush can increase fire hazard and fire intensity. Reducing fire hazard is not as simple as grazing rangelands to bare soil or even to low level of fuel. Rangeland managers need to balance different management goals. They aim to leave some forage on rangelands at the end of the grazing season (before the first fall rains) to protect soil from erosion, support future forage production, avoid growing some types of weeds and often provide fall forage for their cattle. In some areas, it is important to leave more than 1,200-1,300 pounds of forage per acre to achieve these goals, so reducing fuel loads will have to be done carefully to avoid conflicts with other management targets. Conclusions Cattle grazing plays an important role in reducing fine fuels on grazed rangelands in California. Without grazing we would have hundreds to thousands of additional of pounds/acre of fine fuels on the landscape, potentially leading to larger and more severe fires. The bulk of this fuel reduction occurs in regions of the state with higher forage production per acre. Therefore, while average fuel reduction rates are higher in these regions, residual fuels may not be low enough across all grazed rangelands (even in regions with high fuel reduction rates) to avoid long flame lengths. Fortunately, cattle do not generally consume forage uniformly at the field, ranch or region scale. At many locations within grazed rangelands, there will likely be patches that are grazed low enough to significantly alter fire behavior and patchy fuels can slow fire extent and rate of spread. Widespread and severe wildfires are predicted to increase over time in California. This â&#x20AC;&#x153;new realityâ&#x20AC;? requires that we take advantage of all the tools in our management toolbox to protect public safety while meeting our broader rangeland management objectives. Grazing all rangelands to ideal fuel levels is not logistically feasible or compatible with management goals. However, there are opportunities to improve fire safety in California by grazing rangelands that are not currently being grazed or even by increasing grazing intensity on very lightly grazed areas. The number of beef cows in California today are only about 57 percent of their peak numbers in the 1980s. This reduction is mirrored by declines in public lands grazing. Strategic implementation of cattle grazing, including potentially fee-for-service agreements, on key private and public lands can meet multiple natural resource objectives, while also lowering fire hazard through reducing fine fuels, reducing fuel continuity and slowing or stopping brush encroachment into grasslands.
THIS RESEARCH WAS MADE POSSIBLE BY FUNDS FROM THE CALIFORNIA CATTLE COUNCIL.
October 2020 California Cattleman 27
COUNCIL COMMUNICATOR CHECKING IN ON YOUR BEEF CHECKOFF
summer campaigns garner impressive results by California Beef Council Director of Producer Communications Jill Scofield As the summer months waned, the California Beef Council and Beef Checkoff-funded Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner. program wrapped up a busy few months of unique campaigns targeting California consumers with beef messaging and promotions. For California beef producers, these campaigns leveraged the dollar-per-head Beef Checkoff by combining state-specific efforts launched by the California Beef Council (CBC) with national campaigns that also focused on Golden State consumers. As one example, the “United We Steak” campaign celebrated the shared tradition of grilling steaks over the summer, as well as unique aspects of each state when it comes to grilling. The campaign came to life with an interactive map of the United States made from 50 handcut steaks in the shape of each state. Over the summer months, advertisements were pushed through digital and social media platforms, as well as through traditional media platforms such as radio, and video platforms including YouTube and Connected TV – all in an effort to inspire Americans to grill up their favorite beef meal no matter where they live. The national components of the campaign exceeded expectations even before it concluded, with a full analysis of all campaign metrics still pending. As of early September, the campaign had resulted in over 326 million total impressions, far exceeding the goal of 270 million. There were also over 83 million video views, and audio ads reached over 29 million listeners. Closer to home, the CBC further leveraged the campaign through statespecific advertising, offers for cash-back rebates on beef products, and a sweepstakes offering a chance to win one of five Traeger grills. These details, as well as information about ranching and raising beef in California, were made available at a custom website, UnitedWeSteakCalifornia.com. The cash-back offers through this campaign included a $1 rebate on fresh beef cuts from the Rib, Loin, or Sirloin (1 lb. or larger) through Ibotta, and a $1 rebate on a $5 spend of beef or a $2 rebate on a $10 spend of beef through Checkout 51. The Ibotta rebate was increased to 28 California Cattleman October 2020
$3 toward the end of the campaign. In terms of results of the California advertising, broadcast media impressions surpassed 6.7 million, with nearly 5 million additional impressions through other campaign elements, including streaming audio and banner ads across a variety of online platforms, ads airing via “OTT” television (which refers to “over the top” film and television content provided via a high-speed Internet connection rather than a cable or satellite provider), and mobile geo-fencing ads pushed out through a variety of smart phone apps. Additionally, there were 54,000 entries into the consumer sweepstakes offered as part of this campaign. What’s more, the Ibotta offer resulted in roughly 3.9 million brand impressions, 82,609 “Add to List” events (instances where the shopper took the additional action through the app of watching a video, unlocking the offer, and adding beef to their shopping list), and 33,146 offers redeemed at California retailers. Of those who took advantage of the offer, 88.75 percent were female, and 11.25 percent were male, with the age ranges of 35-44 (36.6 percent) and 25-34 (29.7 percent) being the top age groups. One advantage of the Ibotta app is that any participating California retailer is included, which means the CBC doesn’t have to limit such opportunities to a small number of retailers. For this campaign, the retailers ...CONTINUED ON PAGE 30
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Reg 19772710 WW YW RADG MARB RE 102 183 .36 .91 1.09
$F 137
$W 99
$B $C 207 326
Bar 7 Enhance 9103 Reg 19503265 MARB RE 1.43 1.04
$G 95
$B 190
$C 313
Bar 7 Inertia 9131
Reg 19502139 MARB 1.12
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$F 115
$W 80
$G $B 84 199
$C 324
Bar 7 Signal 9134
Reg 19502139 WW 92
YW RADG MARB RE $F 163 .34 1.27 .89 117
$W 96
$G $B $C 86 203 307
Reg 19530506 WW 75
YW 137
RADG .30
RE 1.05
$F 124
$W 75
$G 67
$B 191
$C 322
October 2020 California Cattleman 29
...CONTINUED FROM PAGE 28 that saw the highest redemption rates on beef products through the Ibotta app included Costco at 16.4 percent of the total redemptions, Walmart at 16.12 percent, Ralph’s at 7.9 percent, WinCo Foods at 7.52 percent and Safeway at 6.41 percent. Other retailers in the top ten included Von’s, Albertsons, Walmart Grocery (Walmart’s online grocery ordering and pick-up service), Target and Stater Bros. As the United We Steak campaign concluded on a state and national level, the CBC team was pleased with the overall results and engagement. But the efforts to reach Californians with positive beef messaging didn’t end there. Also through the summer months, two additional Beef Checkoff-funded campaigns targeted California consumers, leveraging California beef producers’ dollar even further. The “Western U.S. State Campaign” and the “Top 5 State Campaign” both deployed additional YouTube and Google Search targeted advertising. The Western States campaign targeted California, Nevada, Oregon, Washington, Arizona and Idaho, and the Top 5 campaign included five states with a total population of over 100 million consumers, or roughly a third of the U.S. population – California, Illinois, New York, Pennsylvania and Florida. Both campaigns worked to disseminate beef recipe content to consumers in the targeted states from early June through early August through two primary elements. The first was a YouTube video advertising portion that included newly launched United We Steak videos, as well as a “Substituting Beef Is Beyond Impossible” video to address higher rates of meat substitute consumption in the west. Second was a Google search campaign that revolved around popular consumers search requests such as ground beef recipes, grilling recipes, meat substitutes and more. The campaign would then serve consumers searching for these topics beef-centric recipes. In California, these two campaigns enhanced other beef promotion efforts taking place concurrently by increasing the number of consumer impressions and engagements. There were a total of 18.63 million impressions and over 12 million video views through the YouTube campaign elements, and 271,158 impressions and 5,620 impressions and 18,615 clicks through the Google search campaign. All in all, these campaigns worked to keep beef top of mind for consumers in and across the nation during a summer that held uncertainty, but also saw people continuing to cook and eat at home more often than in previous years. As we enter the fall months, the work to reach California consumers continues. At the time of this writing, the CBC was in the midst of yet another campaign targeting California consumers on their path-to-purchase, providing both inspiration and incentive to include beef in their market basket. For the fourth consecutive year, the CBC partnered with E&J Gallo 30 California Cattleman October 2020
for a grilling and tailgating promotion celebrating football season. But with the 2020 season looking entirely different from years past, the focus instead was on grilling at home. The “Your Grill. Your Game. Your Win.” campaign kicked off in late August and ran through the end of September. A variety of advertising components were deployed as part of this campaign, including targeted radio ads, streaming audio, digital display ads, video pre-roll, geofencing, social media and non-skippable commercials airing on OTT Connected TV (such as Roku, Amazon FireTV, AppleTV, Sling, etc.). California retailers also featured in-store point-of-sale (POS) signage focusing on the promotion, with both the advertising and in-store POS components targeting the Los Angeles, San Diego, San Francisco and Sacramento markets. All advertising and POS directed consumers to a landing page at YourGrillGame.com where they could access offers that include a $3 Ibotta offer on fresh beef cuts from the Rib, Loin, or Sirloin (1 lb. or larger), and a Checkout 51 offer for a $1 rebate on a $5 spend of beef or a $2 rebate on a $10 spend of beef. And finally, the campaign also included a lucrative sweepstakes offer for one of four ultimate grilling prize packs. Consumers over 21 could enter, and get a chance to win a Traeger Grill, a Yeti cooler and tumbler, an LCD projector with DVD player, a smart LED TV, a fire pit and $250 worth of fresh beef. As the results of this additional campaign are analyzed, we’ll continue to share with producers the impact efforts such as this have, showing just how far your Beef Checkoff dollar goes in California. To continue learning more and stay engaged with our work, visit calbeef.org/resources/ producer-resources to access our previous producer webinars that share details of CBC and Beef Checkoff programs, sign up for our monthly newsletter and more. resources If you’re interested in further enhancing your advocacy skills, be sure to visit BeefItsWhatsForDinner.com and search “MBA.” In addition to the training itself, there is an MBA classroom kit, ideal for ag teachers interested in incorporating more beef industry information into their curriculum.
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HERD HEALTH CHECK FALL AND WINTER HEALTH ISSUES IN COW-CALF HERDS by Floron C. Faries, Jr. for Texas A&M University Extension As a cow-calf herd goes into the fall season after a hot, dry summer, the entire herd may be stressed. Excessive heat, short grass and low water tanks stress cattle and make them more susceptible to diseases. Unsanitary conditions and abrupt diet changes also can lead to illness, as can other circumstances of stress. At the end of the summer, the cows are likely pulled down to a thin body condition from nursing the calves, the bulls worn out from breeding and the calves shocked from weaning. When cattle are stressed, they become thin and their immune systems are suppressed. Germs that are dormant in the tissues and organs of the cattle can break out of dormancy, multiply and cause outbreaks of diseases and disorders, such as: • Clostridiosis (clostridial blackleg group), which is a group of highly fatal muscle, liver and intestinal diseases • Leptospirosis (lepto), a bacterial disease that can cause abortions, stillbirths and weak newborn calves as well as jaundice, high fever and usually death • Anaplasmosis (anaplas), an infectious disease that causes anemia, weakness, fever, lack of appetite, constipation, abortion and sometimes death • Viral and bacterial pneumonia, diseases of the lungs • Viral and bacterial abortions, infectious diseases that cause death of the embryo or fetus •Bacterial pyometra, a disease of the uterus • Bacterial diarrhea, a gastroenteritis When any one of these health problems is recognized in a stressed cow-calf herd, it can be assumed the cattle were carriers that broke with the disease even without a recent exposure to the disease agent. The diseased cattle may have been exposed and become infected several months before the time of stress precipitating the disease in the cattle with clinical symptoms. Some cattle may become emaciated with “bottle- jaw” (a soft swelling under the jaw) and advance to a “downer” stage, becoming unable to rise. In many cases, the cattle may die. Producers can prevent or minimize health problems in the fall and winter by reducing the stresses caused by inadequate nutrition, sudden feeding changes and poor sanitation. Below are descriptions of common health problems in cow- calf herds during fall and winter, the causes of those problems and preventive measures. Acorn poisoning The howling winds of cold fronts and rainstorms often knock green acorns from oak trees in a pasture. Most cattle like the taste of acorns and tend to seek them out. But hungry cattle that consume too many green acorns will get sick. Their gastrointestinal tracts will be upset; they will develop diarrhea, become dehydrated, constipated and emaciated; and they might die. Acorn poisoning is caused by chemicals called tannins. It 32 California Cattleman October 2020
generally occurs when acorns fall off trees in the immature green stage, followed by over consumption by cattle. This usually occurs in pastures where there is not much grass left nor hay fed. Poisoning from oak tannins also can occur when cattle eat buds and young leaves of oaks (shrubs and trees) in early spring. Sickness starts 8 to 14 days after the cattle have started eating acorns. The amount tolerated by an animal is influenced by the protein content of its diet. If the protein intake is high, the animal can consume more acorns without having poisoning symptoms. Cattle affected by acorn poisoning have a poor appetite, appear dull, become constipated, suffer weight loss and look gaunt or “tucked up.” They also may pass blood in the manure and/or bleed from the nostrils. Profuse diarrhea may follow after the constipation. Affected animals drink large amounts of water and void excessive amounts of clear urine (urine may also contain blood). Many animals go down and cannot rise after 3 to 7 days of clinical signs of acorn poisoning. If these affected animals do not die, it may take as long as 2 to 3 weeks before they start to recover. Producers suspecting such a problem should contact a veterinarian as soon as possible. To correct the protein and energy deficiencies of a stressed, thin cow herd, provide plenty of good-quality hay. When feeding hay, consider both the quantity and quality fed, and supplement it if needed with the proper amounts of protein and/or energy supplements. Providing hay that is of poor quality—even in large amounts—might provide adequate energy, but the cattle will be deficient in protein. Providing good hay but not enough of it can improve the protein deficiency but leave the cattle lacking in energy. Treatment is of little value in severely affected cattle. However, for the other cattle remaining on the “poor” oak tree pasture, provide supplemental feed containing hydrated lime (calcium hydroxide) and protein, which are “antidotes” for the tannins. Mix and cube the following feed formulation for breeding cattle (four pounds per head per day) and use it as a meal creep feed for calves (free-choice lime limits consumption like salt): • Cottonseed meal - 1,040 pounds (52 percent) • Dehydrated alfalfa leaf meal - 600 pounds (30 percent) • Vegetable oil - 160 pounds(8 percent) • Hydrated lime - 200 pounds(10 percent)
Obviously, acorn poisoning can be prevented by removing cattle from areas with oak trees when acorns have recently fallen. Reserve these pastures for grazing in late fall ...CONTINUED ON PAGE 34
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...CONTINUED FROM PAGE 32 or winter, when the acorns have had a chance to age, turn brown and become somewhat less toxic. No matter when the cattle are turned onto “poor” oak tree pasture, remember that they still could be affected if they eat too many acorns. Plant poisoning Deaths in early fall are often related to nitrate and toxic plant poisoning in a hungry herd on an overgrazed summer pasture. After fall rains stimulate the growth of grasses, hungry cattle may consume too much of the new growth and die of suffocation because of pulmonary emphysema, or “fog fever.” The new growth also may be high in cyanide, which causes cattle to suddenly die, as if they suffocated. Fog fever is a respiratory distress syndrome that may occur in adult cattle 5 to 10 days after a change from dry, sparse grazing to a relatively lush, green pasture. Problem pastures have grass and weed regrowth after rains or irrigation and provide an excess of tryptophan amino acid, which in cattle is converted to a toxic compound. The toxin produced from the tryptophan causes lung edema (an accumulation of fluids) and emphysema. Cattle with mild conditions may go unnoticed and recover spontaneously within days. Cattle with severe lung edema and emphysema show extensive respiratory distress with mouthbreathing, tongue extension and drooling of saliva. Producers should drive or handle the animals cautiously to prevent immediate deaths. Remove all cattle from the pasture concerned and handle them quietly for therapy by a veterinarian. Up to 30 percent of the severely affected cattle will die. After 10 to 14 days, the cattle may be reintroduced gradually to the pasture over 3 weeks by feeding hay and limiting grazing time. As the forage matures, it becomes safer because the nutrients become less concentrated. Pulmonary emphysema can best be prevented by not suddenly putting hungry adult cattle on lush pastures. Good options include: • Moving cattle onto the new pasture before it becomes lush • Mowing and strip-grazing • Restricting grazing time • Providing hay or grain • To prevent fog fever, provide sufficient, good- quality grass, hay and water. Polio A disorder called polio (polioencephalomalacia) commonly develops in malnourished, thin cattle that have been grazing poor pastures low in protein, consuming high levels of sulfate in grass and water and then are brought into dry-lot confinement and fed large amounts of grain concentrates or grain silages without adequate roughage. Polio can develop within a few days in cattle under these conditions. It often occurs in late summer and early fall when pastures are dry and when overgrazed and replacement heifers and weaned calves are penned for supplemental feeding. The abrupt change in diet can cause necrosis (death of cells or tissues through injury or disease) of the brain. Thiamine levels in brain tissue may also drop, which can 34 California Cattleman October 2020
cause severe neurological disease. Affected cattle, especially weanlings and yearlings, become weak and uncoordinated and go down. As the downer tries to stand, its ankles remain flexed or knuckled over. Cattle with polio often lie cow fashion (body upright with legs underneath) and just cannot get up. To prevent permanent brain damage, producers should call in a veterinarian for treatment immediately. Cattle often improve within 12 hours if they are treated early in the course of disease and do not have brain necrosis. If the cattle do not respond to thiamine treatment, either they have irreversible brain damage, or the problem has been misdiagnosed. To prevent recurrence, feed good-quality hay before a gradual return to grain and maintain a high fiber diet. Range ketosis Cattle with range ketosis are malnourished and thin, on a low-carbohydrate (low-energy) diet and likely are stressed from cold weather or calving and nursing. Symptoms include wallowing and licking with the tongue, bellowing and pressing against walls, posts and trees. The cattle become incoordinated and then go down. Affected cattle need immediate treatment by a veterinarian to raise their blood sugar levels and improve glucose metabolism. Grass tetany (Hypomagnesemia) The affected cows are thin, grazing lush pasture high in nitrogen and potassium, and likely are stressed from cold, cloudy weather or calving and nursing. Symptoms include staggers, tossing the head, bellowing and galloping before going down with convulsions. A veterinarian is needed to treat the cattle immediately to raise the blood magnesium. Soil-borne diseases When a cow herd is in a winter calving season and feeds on round, hay bales, the ground can become wet, nasty and contaminated with coccidia (microorganisms that multiply in the intestinal tract) from cow manure. Nursing calves lie on these grounds and may ingest many coccidial cysts, which leads to coccidiosis, a parasitic disease of the intestinal tract. Several health problems are associated with round balefeeding of cows and nursing calves. For calves, these include: • Coccidiosis (coccidial scours), an intestinal disease caused by a parasite called coccidia and resulting in diarrhea • Cryptosporidiosis (crypto scours), caused by Cryptosporidium parvum, an intestinal parasite • Viral and bacterial scours, a gastroenteritis • Bacterial navel ill, a bacterial infection of the navel In cows, the problems include: • Bacterial metritis, an infection of the uterus • Bacterial mastitis, an inflammation of the mammary gland or udder • Bacterial foot rot, an infection causing swelling or lameness in one or more feet To reduce the occurrences of these and other soil- borne diseases, move the haying areas periodically to maintain good environmental sanitation.
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THE CONNECTION OF CALIFORNIA’S RANGELANDS TO BEEF IS NOT DIRECT BUT SHOULD BE VALUED by Sheila Barry, Livestock and Natural Resources Advisor, UC Cooperative Extension, San Francisco Bay Area (2017) of beef calves were moved from grazing lands Beef cattle are raised in every county in California, except San Francisco. Livestock, mostly beef cattle graze (irrigated pastures and summer rangelands). This seasonal about 40 percent of the state. Arguably beef production has movement is in sharp contrast to the 1.2 million head of an extensive footprint on the landscape and ranchers steward dairy calves, which are also moved through systems to much of the state’s natural lands. Yet despite the extensive contribute to beef production, but with little indication of footprint and large number of cattle (5.1 million head of any cyclical or seasonal pattern (Figure 1). beef and dairy cattle in 2017), few consumers could say that Ranchers selling calves and yearlings at feeder sales in they have purchased beef that was locally raised or even May, June and July in 2019 reported during survey forage raised in California. Why? quality and quantity as influencing the time they chose to sell In short, very few cattle are direct marketed from their calves or yearlings. California ranches, and many cattle leave California to be "This is the typical time of year to sell fall born calves. You could finished and processed in other states. The final product may return to be sold and consumed in California, but keep them longer when feed is abundant, but calves do not grow it also increasingly contributes to a globally integrated well." beef production system. To understand how California’s In terms of forage quantity, ranchers noted the ranchers and grazing lands are connected to the production importance of leaving feed. of beef, I studied cattle movements recorded by the state "We pull the calves and move the cows, so there is feed to come brand inspectors, collected data from feeder cattle sales back to." and surveyed and interviewed bay area ranchers. I also considered the opportunities for a new technology, blockchain to support the marketing of “California FIGURE 1. CALVES AND YEARLINGS (NUMBER OF HEAD) MOVING beef ” without changing the current production FROM CALIFORNIA GRAZING LANDS (BEEF) AND DAIRIES OR system, which includes cow-calf, stocker and feedlot FEED YARDS (DAIRY) FROM JANUARY 2017 TO DECEMBER 2018. operations and dairies. The following factors explain a lot of the connection of California’s rangelands to beef production: 1) Ranchers “fit” cattle to forage resources; 2) Direct marketing is very limited; 3) Many producers (most small and mid-size producers) rely on auction yards to market their cattle; 4) Large numbers of calves and yearlings leave California’s rangelands for finishing and processing; and 5) While ranchers get paid for the cattle they sell, ranching requires management of natural resources, e.g. grass, wildlife, water. California ranchers move cattle, including selling calves and yearlings from rangelands, to “fit” their forage resources. Forage on most of California’s grazing land is natural growing plants, which are harvested by livestock with little to no agronomic inputs. The “fit” to the resource is demonstrated by the substantial seasonal movement of cattle off California’s grazing lands (Figure 1). Over ½ million head of beef calves and yearlings or about 47 percent of beef calves and yearlings, that moved off California’s grazing lands in 2017, were moved in late spring to summer (May -July). A smaller flush of movement occurred in the fall, October through BEEF DAIRY November, when 16 percent or nearly 200,000 head 36 California Cattleman October 2020
When asked how selling at this time impacted conservation objectives, most ranchers spoke about conservation in terms of a desire to prevent overgrazing. Ranchers also acknowledged how their grazing management, including livestock sales, worked to support specific conservation interests. “I have no conservations restrictions, but I keep it the best I can. According to the [Natural Resources Conservation Service] NRCS biologist, it remains a good habitat for red-legged frog, California tiger salamander and San Joaquin kit fox. I sold later than usual because I had excess feed, but there was no impact. I don’t like to graze to the ground.” Ranchers also described how moving cattle, including timing of sales, reduced fire risk and protected soils.
portion of the state’s beef producers are “Ranch-tofork” operations. In fact, only 24,000 head or about 1.5 percent cattle are direct marketed (2017, Figure 2). Other studies have found processing and distribution, along with accessing enough quality forage are all recognized as significant challenges to direct marketing beef. For all but the largest producers, auction yards are critical; they provide for the movement of cattle off grazing lands and into the next phase of production. Auction yards not only sort, market and support pricing of cattle, but also provide flexibility in marketing cattle of different types and different times of year. Small and medium-sized producers (< 500 head) market nearly 70 percent of their cattle through an auction yard (366,000 head in 2017). While an auction yard may not be nearby for some ranchers, there was broad agreement among bay area “It was good to keep calves a little longer. I graze, so it does not ranchers that the auctions provided a fair price for their burn. I graze closer [to the ground] next to property boundaries cattle (Figure 3). since my neighbors don't graze and have grass six-feet tall. I Most beef cattle leave California’s grazing land for keep cows and calves out of the hills during the rainy season to finishing. Whether through retained ownership or sale, avoid erosion. After the rainy season, I jump [the cow and calves most beef cattle leaving California's grazing lands move are moved] back and forth between hill and flats.” into more intensive production systems, where there are feed resources to further grow or finish. In 2017 as many Very few beef cattle are direct marketed by California as 50 percent (420,000) of calves and yearlings on grazing producers. According to brand inspection records, a small land left the state for FIGURE 2. MOVEMENTS OF ALL BEEF CATTLE IN CALIFORNIA, NUMBER OF PRODUCERS feedlots or grass out-ofAND NUMBER OF HEAD, BY PRODUCER SIZE (2017). NOTE: NUMBER OF PRODUCERS IS ONLY state. UNIQUE NUMBER PER MOVEMENT TYPE. THEY MAY BE COUNTED MULTIPLE TIMES WITH Culled beef cows PRODUCTION SIZE CLASS IF THEY USE DIFFERENT MOVEMENT TYPES. and bulls are the exception, with most moving directly from grazing land to a meat processing facility. Culled cows are the largest class of beef cattle going directly from California grazing lands to processing. In 2017, nearly 17 percent of the beef cow herd or 109,000 cows was replaced with most of these cows going directly to slaughter. The dairy industry in California with a much higher replacement rate (40 percent) contributed seven times as many cull cows to beef production (2017). FIGURE 3.
...CONTINUED ON PAGE 38
October 2020 California Cattleman 37
...CONTINUED FROM PAGE 37 California ranchers are not just connected to food production but also conservation. A common theme among California ranchers is a commitment to good grazing management regardless of land ownership or conservation requirements. This view was clearly articulated during rancher surveys: "I have no directive for conservation, but as all cattlemen, I convert grass to beef, so we need to manage grass…I manage it, all the same, to keep grass." "I graze all lands similarly. If you take care of the land, it takes care of you." Keeping ranchers viable is increasingly recognized as a benefit to the conservation of California’s natural landscapes. Many of the high ecosystem services values provided by rangelands are lost if these lands are converted to more intensive uses. From 1984 to 2008, over nearly a half million acres of California’s rangeland was converted to more intensive agriculture or housing (Cameron, et al. 2014). There is growing interest in valuing ecosystem services provided by rangelands and incentivizing or paying ranchers to provide them. Ranchers surveyed in the San Francisco Bay area overwhelmingly agreed that they grazed for resource managements reasons like reducing fire fuels, controlling weeds or improving wildlife habitat, but many disagreed with graze because it is profitable and nearly all disagreed with the statement that they “get paid to graze," as shown in Figure 4. Certainly, there are straight economic considerations that influence when ranchers’ decisions move (or sell) cattle off of California grazing lands or to invest time and resources to develop ranch-to-fork enterprise. However, in the rancher interviews, even economic reasons for selling like changing market conditions or the need for cash were typically explained within the context of resource management. “The market was going south. I could save a little feed by selling now.”
“I was watching the market and needed cash. I only marketed the heavy end because I have grass [irrigated pasture] for the lighter cattle to go on.” “I had feed and prices were low, but I needed cash to pay bills.” The decision to sell cattle driven by seasonal changes in forage quality and quantity and a commitment to resource protection should not, however, undermine the fact that selling livestock is essential to the economic sustainability of ranching. One of the auctioneers at the beginning of each of his feeder sales reassured the ranchers present that the sale yard understood this: “I know this is your paycheck for the year, and we take it very seriously.” THE FUTURE The beef production system continues to evolve. We have seen growing consumer interest in grass-fed beef, and COVID- related plant closures have spurred new ranchto-fork operations and more. Where can we go from here? Are there options for ranchers to capture more from the marketplace? As it stands now, beef that originates from extensive rangelands is generally not differentiated from dairy beef, for example. Other than physical information that can be visually assessed or measured, such as weight, hide, sex, frame size and hot-iron brand if available (ranch origin), information including vaccine records, care practices, feed sources is not transferred through the production systems unless the cattle are associated with a specific value-added program. Current value-added programs for meat products like natural, organic or grassfed are limited in the attributes of beef and its production that they account for and promote. So what is next… There are new disruptive technologies that decentralize information and control, like blockchain, which may help ranchers distinguish their product and meet consumer interests, and it appears that at least some consumers are willing to pay. See “Emerging Technology could Advance marketing beef Ranch-to-Fork – Blockchain” in the next edition of the California Cattleman.
FIGURE 4. BAY AREA RANCHERS’ SURVEY RESPONSES TO STATEMENTS ABOUT WHY THEY GRAZE. NUMBER OF CIRCLE REPRESENTS AVERAGE SCORE FROM 110 RESPONSES.
38 California Cattleman October 2020
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CONSERVATION AT WORK
Ranchers highlighted in new NRCS videos by Anita Brown for NRCS California There’s a new and easy way to see conservation on the landscape with real ranchers trying to achieve real progress on the land. From the comfort of your home or truck, you can now view succinct YouTube videos called Conservation at Work demonstrating 27 different conservation practices from USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS). Almost a third of this first set of videos focus on rangeland. The videos show landowners and conservationists from across America. Together they are working to make the landscape healthier—while helping producers to be more economically sustainable and profitable. Five of the videos were shot in California. For over 80 years California ranchers have walked their land with NRCS conservationists—discussing resource concerns such as erosion, water quantity and quality, invasive weeds, healthy vegetation and forage and ways to incorporate structural practices to improve management of their livestock. Together ranchers and conservationists discuss plans for the land and the animals and some strategies that might be used. Then they commit these ideas into conservation plans using the type of conservation practices shown in these videos. “Of course, unless you have a computer for a brain, it’s impossible to keep all this good information in your head,” says Carlos Suarez, state conservationist for California. “While the gold standard continues to be face-to-face visits, NRCS has long offered ranchers many ways of gathering and storing information—things like fact sheets,
newsletters, brochures and websites. These short twominute videos will really add a welcome addition to our library.” Practices, such as fencing and/or livestock water developments (pipeline, troughs, etc.) coupled with prescribed grazing management are often packaged together like building blocks to help ranchers and other landowners achieve conservation goals and objectives. Similarly, the videos feature one practice at a time, though they are usually combined to achieve desired goals. Other video practices most relevant to rangeland include Brush Management, Forage and Biomass Planting, Trails and Walkways, Water Well and Watering Facility. What does this look like in California? Fletch Nelson, NRCS range conservationist in Fresno, says, “By far our most popular projects in this area are stockwater systems. Whether it’s getting stockwater to a distant corner of a pasture or getting it to the top of a hill or ridge, the aim is to improve animal distribution and take advantage of underutilized feed.” And how does that help the environment? “The resource benefit is evening out grazing pressure and pulling animals off overused areas like the flats and riparian areas,” says Nelson. “We use fence for the same purpose—to force animals to use places they’d otherwise avoid, and to keep them out of places where they hang out too much.” Nelson says that in central California about 80 percent
A water tank and solar panel project is just one implemented conservation improvement highlighted from a livestock operation near Petaluma. 40 California Cattleman October 2020
This El Dorado County cattle ranch upgraded fencing to facilitate livestock distribution and protect land from overgrazing and erosion.
...CONTINUED ON PAGE 42
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...CONTINUED FROM PAGE 40 of NRCS range funding goes to these stock water and fencing systems to improve grazing management. The rest goes towards projects to control weeds, reduce wildfire hazard and enhance wildlife habitat. In Northern California, where Alan Bower has been the lead rangeland management specialist for NRCS for over a decade, Bower says there are both similarities and a few unique conditions. We have a little more precipitation and more pasture-based dairies up here, he says. Nevertheless, our prescribed grazing management plans also focus on livestock distribution and improving the vegetation on ranches. “In my experience, a conservation plan that incorporates prescribed grazing and assists in overall ranch management, can sometimes increase livestock carrying capacity,” Bower notes. A conservation plan, built from the appropriate conservation practices, serves as the foundation for conservation cost share This Southern California livestock owner's contracts. In just the last four Farm Bills (2002 to present) California vegetation monitoring is promoted by NRCS. beef producers have developed more than 5,000 conservation contracts with NRCS, treating Assistance to over 10,000 acres at an investment of more than a quarter billion dollars. “Our conservation contracts are competitive,” cautions Suarez. “There simply Concerned with: isn’t enough money to cover Providing water to your livestock in remote areas? Addressing weeds and invasive plants? Improving soil quality to grow nutritious forage? all the conservation needs The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service can help! in California every year. In a given area the percent of INTRODUCTION GETTING STARTED.. applications we can fund may California has some of the most beautiful and Go to the Office vary considerably from year diverse rangelands in the nation: from alpine We have 54 across the state. The NRCS will to year depending on available meadows to sage steppe and from coastal work with you to develop a conservation plan prairie to Mediterranean tailored to help you improve funding and ranchers’ needs. annual grasses. Ranchers rangeland conditions on your Some years it may be able to in all of these settings property. This voluntary plan work hard to balance the will be based on your priorities cover just 25 percent of the needs of livestock with the and solid science. The plan need and some years it is closer capability of the ecosystem may also be the basis to apply to healthfully sustain both for financial assistance. to 75 percent. Work with your animals and the landscape local planner and stay with it. for the long term. Financial Assistance We won’t quit on you,” says The Environmental Quality Professional NRCS Incentives Program (EQIP) is a Suarez. rangeland specialists Constructing barbed, smooth, electric or voluntary program widely used are available to work with woven wire fences help to improve A new round of videos is by ranchers and pastureland ranchers to capture this livestock distribution or control access to operators in California. EQIP currently being planned. Feel balancing act in a tailored certain sensitive areas. shares with participants the grazing management plan. free to recommend to your cost of conservation practices The plan begins with an (see sidebar on back). The Conservation local NRCS conservationist inventory of water sources, soil types, forage Stewardship Program (CSP) offers additional species/production, fencing, and other resource your ideas for information opportunities for those already meeting a issues. Guided by the goals of the rancher, a baseline level of stewardship. and topics that would benefit flexible management strategy is developed to enhance ranch resources. A monitoring and California ranchers. To watch Apply contingency plan will also be provided. Any time during the year. Eligible projects all of the Conservation at Work will be evaluated, prioritized and selected for videos visit The USDANRCS funding as budget allocations permit. YouTube channel.” https:// www.youtube.com/playlist?list =PL4J8PxoprpGZ2F23YzTa3 USDA is an Equal Opportunity Provider, Employer and Lender. QjSDfj-lK2ZB
Ranchers and Pastureland Operators
42 California Cattleman October 2020
WW 70 YW 124 MARB 1.02 $B 169 $C 289
CED 14 BW -.1 MARB 1.87 $B 199 $G 107 $C 301
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October 2020 California Cattleman 43
Wilson retires from cdfa following long service to livestock producers After 23 years serving California’s Animal Health and Food Safety Services (AHFSS) programs, Dennis Wilson, DVM, retired from public service at the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA). Dennis leaves behind an outstanding legacy of leadership and mentoring dedicated to protecting animal and human health in California. His most recent role was leading the Antimicrobial and Stewardship Branch of AHFSS as Chief. “It is my pleasure to congratulate Dennis on a very long and distinguished career with the California Department of Food and Agriculture,” said Tom Talbot, Talbot, DVM, and past CCA President. “Dennis has been a true friend to CCA and a strong supporter of the California beef industry throughout his career.” Dennis’ accomplishments include responding to disease outbreaks, such as virulent Newcastle Disease, avian influenza, and bovine tuberculosis; managing emergencies in the dairy and beef industries-whether related to extreme heat or toxins such as botulism; and partnering with UC Davis faculty to develop curriculum and teach Veterinary and Animal Science students. “His understanding of the issues that affect our industry and his efforts to effectively advocate for California beef producers is sincerely appreciated,” Talbot said. “Good luck on your retirement, and thanks for all of your efforts over these past several years.” During his last stint at CDFA, he dedicated his efforts to developing the country’s first-ever Antimicrobial Use and Stewardship Program. Dennis has always been willing to put
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forth extraordinary effort to meet the challenge of the moment; his legacy will enrich the work of CDFA and California agriculture for years to come. “I am so appreciative of all of the work Dennis has done for the California cattle industry over so many years,” Dave Daley, Ph.D., Ph.D., CCA Immediate Past President, said. "We always knew that he would do the right thing and do it well. Special thanks to him on all of his work on antimicrobial resistance.” Dennis, who was raised in Northern California, is a graduate of the University of California, Davis, where he completed his veterinary training and obtained a doctorate in Comparative Pathology with an emphasis in epidemiology. Before joining CDFA, Dennis spent time doing research work in Tulare at the UC Davis Veterinary Medicine Research Center. “On behalf of the many CCA members who have had the pleasure of working with Dennis and getting to know him over the years, CCA leadership extends a great deal of thanks to Dennis and wishes him nothing but the best in this next season of life," CCA Executive Vice President Billy Gatlin said. “California’s animal agriculture industry is forever better because of his commitment to serving the industry.”
GENEPLUS October 2020 California Cattleman 45
Siskiyou county cattlemen recognize standouts of the year Siskiyou County Cattlemen Association (SCCA) field day CattleWomen (SCCW) and is a delegate to California was to be held in Butte Valley this year. The field day was Cattlewomen, Inc. and for SCCW where she is also involved unfortunately cancelled due to coronavirus restrictions. in Ag in the Classroom, Ag Awareness Day, farm day, The awards that are usually presented then, were Gordon Lau school visits and beef promotion. awarded Sept. 8 at the Prather Ranch in Macdoel. Rebecca’s favorite saying is: “Be the change you want to The Prather Ranch was this year's recipient of SCCA’s see.” Ally of the Industry Award. This honor is presented to Last but not least, Mark Coats was recognized as this a business that presents and promotes the industry in a year's Cattleman of the Year for Siskiyou County. positive position. Mark and his wife Jody are commercial cow-calf Prather Ranch, is a vertically-integrated, premium dryproducers in Northern California and Southern Oregon. aged natural beef operation, with an innovative, sustainable Mark is currently on the executive board for CCA, is and humane treatment of their cattle philosophy. a director for SCCA as well as a past president of SCCA. Prather's unique "closed herd" has been a supplier of He is on several advisory committees and is a member of bovine bio-medical raw materials since 1990 and is uniquely the Siskiyou County Board of Supervisors, advisory board positioned to provide the "gold standard" of bovine raw for Range Management. He also serves on the California materials for biomedical companies harvested in the ranch's Cattlemen's Association President's Advisory Committee on-site USDA federally-inspected abattoir. for Wolves and is a member of the Editorial Advisory The Prather Ranch has become a stellar example of a Board for the Cattle Mag. Mark also has developed specific self-sustaining agricultural operation that promotes strong techniques for deterring predators from praying on cattle. environmental philosophies, holistic management practices Since purchasing his first cow, a registered Brahman, and the humane treatment of livestock. Those at the ranch when he was 15 years old, the cattle business has been his understand that the first step is to be good stewards of the occupation. Whether day-working for larger producers, land, which includes caring for the soil, the water, the air, or managing for others, Mark and Jody have always been the cattle and those who work the land. Food safety and a involved in the cattle industry. superior tasting product is the primary goal of the ranch. The Prather Ranch operation over seen by Jim and Mary Rickert and Robert Newell creates a positive influence on the local communities and those economies. Another award winner recognized on Sept.9 was Rebecca Broomwell, Broomwell, who was recognized as SCCA's Ranch Hand of the Year. This award is given to an individual who makes a positive impact for a producer and the community. Bruce and Rebecca’s farming operation in Macdoel keeps them busy, but Rebecca is active in helping local ranchers as well as her community. She is very active in the Dorris Lions Club and the Butte Valley Community Center. Rebecca is a Lions lodge board of directors member and past vice president. She chairs their scholarship committee as well as the Butte Valley Summer Shootout Rodeo Series. She also manages the Butte Valley Community Center. Siskiyou County Cattlemen's Board Members Russel McKay, Rebecca is a 4-H leader and Butte Valley Chamber of and Mark Coats, and President Dave Cowley present the Ranch Commerce President. She is active in the Siskiyou County Hand of the Year Award to Rebecca Broomell.
Siskiyou County Cattlemen's Ally of the Industry, Jim and Mary Rickert and the Prather Ranch Crew
46 California Cattleman October 2020
NCBA On Covid assistance: President Trump Works Tirelessly For Nation’s Ranchers and Farmers On Sept. 18, the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association's (NCBA) released the following statement in response to the United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) announcement that additional support would be made available to cattle producers through the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program (CFAP). “We are pleased to see that USDA is using unspent funds in the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program to provide further relief to cattle producers who have been hit hardest by the COVID-19 pandemic," said NCBA Vice President of Government Affairs Ethan Lane. "The initial CFAP payments served as an important stopgap in the immediate wake of the coronavirus. Unfortunately, many in our industry are still reeling from abnormal marketing decisions they were forced to make in the Spring, unprecedented supply chain disruptions, and an overall tumultuous farm economy. We are grateful to President Trump, USDA Secretary Sonny Perdue, and the individuals in this Administration who are tirelessly working to deliver additional aid to our nation’s ranchers and farmers, and we will continue to work with Congress until
adequate relief can be provided to put cattle producers on a firm road to recovery.” In June, NCBA requested that Congress to provide USDA with the resources and guidance necessary to meaningfully improve the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program to be more helpful for farmers and ranchers impacted by the unique situations presented by the pandemic. “CFAP’s incurred loss payments had the potential to deliver a tremendous amount of relief, but an arbitrary cutoff date left many producers out in the cold. Put simply, April 15 marked the height of this crisis and many producers incurred losses just as severe following Part 1 deadline as the days leading up to it," Lane said. "Further, the Part 2 inventory payment rate failed to deliver assistance equitably when compared with the rate for incurred losses. While USDA’s announcement is an important next step, NCBA is calling on Congress to eliminate CFAP’s remaining disparities and deliver to our nation’s ranchers and farmers the support they so badly need in the next coronavirus package.”
October 2020 California Cattleman 47
2020 FALL BULL SALE RESULTS & AVERAGES
SILVEIRA BROS. “PARTNERS FOR PERFORMANCE” BULL SALE
with Tri T Farms SEPT. 2, FIREBAUGH, CA Col. John Rodgers and Col. Rick Machado Managed by Matt Macfarlane Marketing
102 ANGUS & RED ANGUS BULLS
Rod Wesselman, John Dickinson, Jake Pickering, Col. John Rodgers, and Logan Ipsen were the sale crew at O'Neal Ranch's Bull Sale in Madera Sept. 9.
$6,076
VINTAGE ANGUS RANCH “CARCASS MAKER” BULL SALE
SEPT. 3, LA GRANGE, CA Col. John Rodgers and Col. Rick Machado
211 ANGUS BULLS
$8,708
BYRD CATTLE CO. "DISTINCTLY DIFFERENT" BULL SALE
SEPT. 4, LOS MOLINOS, CA Col. Rick Machado
94 ANGUS BULLS
$7,488
EZ ANGUS RANCH BULL SALE
Jon Pedotti, Seth Scribner and Jake Cromley at Vintage Angus Ranch on Sept. 3 in La Grange.
O'Neal Ranch's Gary and Betsy Cardoza and longtime sale auctioneer Col. John Rodgers.
SEPT. 5, ESCALON, CA Col. Rick Machado Managed by Parnell Dickinson, Inc.
151 ANGUS BULLS
$8,235
HERITAGE BULL SALE
Five Star Land and Livestock, Bar R Angus and J/V Angus SEPT. 6, WILTON, CA Col. Jake Parnell Managed by Parnell Dickinson, Inc
73 ANGUS BULLS 10 OPEN REGISTERED HEIFERS
$6,826 $2,435
GENOA LIVESTOCK BULL SALE
SEPT. 8, GENOA, NV Col. Rick Machado
Dan Byrd with Maddalena Ranch's Joe and Annie Tipton in Los Molinos Sept. 4.
Tracy Pezzini, Jack Kerr and Jarred Kerr at the EZ Angus Bull Sale in Farmington.
57 HEREFORD BULLS 4 SPRING PAIRS 5 BRED HEIFERS 4 FALL OPEN HEIFERS
$6,388 $6,300 $2,600 $2,500
O’NEAL RANCH “PERFORMANCE PLUS” BULL SALE
SEPT. 9, MADERA, CA Col. John Rodgers
71 ANGUS BULLS
$6,144
BLACK GOLD BULL SALE
Donati Ranches, O’Connell Ranches, Wulff Brothers Livestock SEPT. 10, COLUSA, CA Col. Rick Machado Managed by Matt Macfarlane Marketing
157 ANGUS BULLS
Jamie and Jim Traynham with Craig Reinhardt and Leland Schneider at the Heritage Bull Sale in Wilton on Sept. 6.
48 California Cattleman October 2020
$5,370
©Settrini
Dan and Daniel O'Connell at the Black Gold Bull Sale held at Granzella's in Williams on Sept. 10.
Joe Fischer, Col. Rick Machado and Shane Strickler at the Tehama Angus Bull Sale in Gerber.
Western Livestock Journal's Logan Ipsen with Morgon Patrick of Dixie Valley Angus at the Arellano Bravo & Diablo Valley Angus Bull Sale in Galt.
Bill Borror and Richard Hamilton at the Tehama Angus Bull Sale.
Matt Macfarlane and Pat Kirby at the Thomas Angus Bull Sale in Galt.
TEHAMA ANGUS RANCH “GENERATIONS OF PERFORMANCE” BULL SALE
SEPT. 11, GERBER, CA Col. Rick Machado and Col. John Rodgers
135 FALL YEARLING ANGUS
$6,041
ARELLANO BRAVO & DIABLO VALLEY ANGUS BULL SALE
with Dixie Valley Angus SEPT. 12, GALT, CA Col. Rick Machado
82 ANGUS BULLS
$5,505
THOMAS ANGUS RANCH CALIFORNIABULL SALE
SEPT. 15, GALT, CA Col. Rick Machado
95 ANGUS BULLS
$5,367
BULLSEYE BREEDERS BULL SALE
Gonsalves Ranch, Diamond Oak Cattle Co., Flood Bros. Cattle, and Double M Ranch SEPT. 16, MODESTO, CA Col. Rick Machado
80 ANGUS & SIMANGUS BULLS $4,448 RANCHO CASINO & DAL PORTO LIVESTOCK BULL SALE with Hoffman Herefords SEPT. 17, DENAIR, CA
Col. Rick Machado and Col. John Rodgers
148 ANGUS BULLS 22 HEREFORD BULLS 37 FEMALES
$6,587 $4,402 $3,854
MID VALLEY BULL SALE AMADOR ANGUS & SCHAFER RANCH SEPT. 18, MODESTO, CA
Col. Rick Machado
133 ANGUS BULLS
$6,859
WATCH FOR MORE SEPTEMBER SALE AVERAGES IN THE NOVEMBER ISSUE OF THIS PUBLICATION.
ANGUS MEANS BUSINESS. Jake Pickering, Regional Manager Arizona California Nevada Utah P.O. Box 348 Shandon, CA 93461 530.415.5484 jpickering@angus.org
3201 Frederick Ave. • St. Joseph, MO 64506 816.383.5100 • www.ANGUS.org
A reliable business partner is difficult to come by. Contact Jake Pickering to locate Angus genetics, select marketing options tailored to your needs, and to access Association programs and services. Put the business breed to work for you. To subscribe to the Angus Journal, call 816.383.5200. Watch The Angus Report on RFD-TV Monday mornings at 7:30 CST.
© 2017-2018 American Angus Association
October 2020 California Cattleman 49
In Memory Lilla Bell
Lilla Hunter Bell passed away peacefully Sept. 17, surrounded by family at the Bell Ranch in Paradise Valley, Nevada. Lilla and her twin brother, Bob, were born on June 12, 1938 in San Francisco to Phelps and Lilla Hunter. Her sisters Beth and Pat followed a few years later. Lilla spent much of her early years on the family ranch near Hollister where she found immense joy caring for and raising animals. Lilla was active in 4-H at an early age raising and showing Hereford cattle. She also had a deep love for corgis, breeding and showing them throughout the years. Lilla was a pioneer in the agricultural industry. She received a bachelor’s of science in Animal Husbandry from Cal Poly State University in San Luis Obispo. She was the first woman to graduate from Cal Poly’s animal science program. She also achieved incredible success on the college’s livestock judging team and was the first woman on a champion collegiate judging team. She also won the Women’s Stockhorse class at the Salinas Rodeo with Bill Dorrance’s horse “Patrick.” In later years, she served on the American Polled Hereford Association’s (APHA) Board of Directors, representing five Western States. Lilla was the first and only woman to serve as chairman for APHA’s board. She was an integral part in bringing together the APHA and the American Horned Hereford Association into a single association. As a result of her contributions and lifelong support of the breed, she was inducted into the Hereford Hall of Fame in 2012.
Harlan garner
Harlen V. Garner passed peacefully in his home Aug. 29, surrounded by his loved ones. Harlen was born on April 19, 1968 in Caldwell, Idaho to Nadene May and Val Garner. Harlen was the fourth of five siblings; Dion, Jamie, Stacey and Holly was the baby. He grew up in the Nyssa, Ore., area, attending school and church with many lifelong friends. Harlen excelled in sports and academics throughout his school years. His senior year he was awarded the prestigious Calvin Wilson award for excellence on and off the field. He performed above and beyond expectations in football, wrestling and baseball. He enjoyed a lot of extracurricular activities such as hunting, fishing, motorcycle riding and water sports. He was heavily involved in the Boy Scouts of America and spent many hours in service and camping out which resulted in him earning badges and the Eagle Scout Award. Later he became a scout leader himself and spent many hours with the boys. He spent his first year in college at BYU, Provo. His second year was at Rick’s College and his third year back at BYU, Provo where he met his bride to be. He returned home to help his dad on the farm because Val’s health was failing. He learned and worked and finally purchased the farm he grew up on. Harlen took over the farm making V-A-L Charolais Ranch the success it is today. On Dec. 27, 1991 he married the 50 California Cattleman October 2020
In 1957, she attained worldwide fame when a photograph of her and her triplet Hereford calves hit the newspapers. She received fan mail from across the world, and her famous photograph made its way to Humboldt County, Nevada into the home of the Bells. A few years later, Forrest “Woodie” Bell would meet the beautiful young woman in the photograph at the San Bento Fair. Woodie bought Lilla an Orange Crush soda pop. Lilla often remarked to her family and friends, even years later, that she could still taste that soda. Lilla and Woodie were married in 1960 and had three sons: Dean (Nikki), John (Jhona) and Dan (Theresa). Lilla loved and cared for her boys deeply. They rejuvenated her interest in the Hereford breed as the boys joined 4-H and started breeding heifers to show. She also loved watching her boys compete in high school, college and professional rodeo. Lilla’s seven grandchildren, Dawson, Lilla “Lilly,” Trase, Quint, Cade, Shane and Carly, also raised and showed Hereford cattle in 4-H. Lilla gifted each of her grandchildren a Hereford heifer to foster the joy she had felt for raising Herefords over the years. During the time her grandchildren were showing cattle, Lilla served as an advisor for the Paradise Valley 4-H Beef Club and sat on the Humboldt County Show and Sale Committee. Lilla enjoyed taking drives through the fields at the Bell Ranch. She was an accomplished photographer and a worldclass cook. She was the kindest soul this world has ever known. The family will be holding a celebration of life in December. More details on that event will follow. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Winnemucca FFA Alumni Association Scholarship Fund. love of his life, Kendalee Harmer. They spent almost every waking moment together. In September 1993 they started their own family with Loughlin. Cyrus followed in '95 and True in '98. Maya was born in May of 2000, Giles in '02, and baby girl Lea surprised in '04. The family spent their time working hard on the farm and ranch and playing hard always together. They took many trips to the coast making memories no one will forget. Harlen worked with the cows and crops up until the leukemia kept him from doing the tasks. True and Giles stepped up and took over for their dad. Cyrus did what he could while earning his Master’s from home. Harlen spent his life teaching his children to work. He taught them how to show and raise cattle. He loved his way of life and instilled it into them. He taught them to show cattle at the local fair to many successes. In January of 2020 the family received the greatest gift, a grandbaby boy that lit up their life. He was preceded in death by his mother and father, Val and Nadene Garner, his brother Stacey Garner, his daughter Rhiannon and son Loughlin Harlen. Harlen is survived by his wife, Kendalee, his sons, daughters and their spouses, Cyrus (McKayla) Garner, True (Katlyn) Garner, Maya Garner, Giles Garner, Lea Garner, and August Cy Garner (grandson). In lieu of flowers the family has asked that you send donations to purchase 4-H and FFA steers at the Malheur County Fair in memory of Harlen Garner. Funeral Services were held at the Owhyee LDS Church in Nyssa.
John Allen
wedding bells
John Bradbury Allen, a 4 generation cattle rancher, passed away Rice & Whitney Aug. 10, at home in Sutter Creek at the age of 91. Katie Rice and Lee Whitney were married on Sept. He was born to George and Vera Bhend Allen on Oct.24, 1928. 12 at the Whitney Family's Peachtree Ranch in San Ardo. He was the youngest of four children. His father was a lifelong The bride is the daughter of Rich Rice, Rice, Clements, and rancher; his mother earned a Phi Beta Kappa at UC Berkeley and the late Jennifer Rice. She is a Cal Poly graduate and is taught school. He was brought home in a wagon to the Allen employed as a marketing coordinator for Cactus Ropes. house in Sutter Creek and being premature, spent his first days in a The groom, who also studied at Cal Poly is the son shoebox in the warming oven of a wood cook stove. of Bill and Karen Whitney and currently works as a He grew up during the Depression and helped on the family firefighter. ranch that ran hundreds of cattle over thousands of acres in Amador County. He became an expert horseman at working cattle toso & Haines and raised and trained many horses in his lifetime. He built and maintained many miles of barbed-wire fences at all elevations Alyssa Toso and Cody Haines celebrated their throughout the county and developed springs and ponds to water marriage at the Toso Family's Cotton Creek Ranch in cattle. Hornitos on Sept. 11. The bride is the daughter of In high school he played sports, music and excelled in academics, Tony and Danette Toso, Toso, Hornitos. She is currently graduating as Salutatorian of his class in 1946. At age 18, he married employed by Advanced Medical Imaging in Fresno. the love of his life, Janet Lovelace of Maxwell. Together they The groom, who serves in the U.S. Navy, is the son of designed and built their ranch-style home which was featured in Sunset magazine. They had six children and were married for 62 years John and Tracy of Waxahatchie, Texas. The couple has made their first home in Clovis. before Janet preceded him in death in 2008. John was a man of many interests and skills. In addition to cattle ranching, he started and was involved in many other businesses and Fowle & Nelson activities and he created many jobs, directly and indirectly in his Surrounded by supportive friends and family, ventures. Melanie Fowle and LaMar Nelson were wed in He loved the snow and the Sierras, was an accomplished skier, a ceremony in Etna on Sept. 11. Fowle, is a past and participated in early snow measurement surveys. Through president of California CattleWomen and a longtime the years, he harvested Christmas trees from family mountain CCA member. Nelson too is a life long agriculture properties located along upper highway 88. For many of these years advocate and farmer. The pair have made their home the highway was closed to the public during the winter months – on the Fowle Ranch in Etna. no cars allowed. The trees were harvested using a fleet of WW2 Weasel snow machines. For many years he provided Christmas trees for families and the Sutter Creek Methodist Church, a Christmas tradition that lasted over 50 years, until he became unable to continue. MILLS IPSEN He was involved with development of Kirkwood Ski Area and Silver Basin Ski Area and was instrumental in Highway 88 being John Mills Ipsen, Ipsen, opened up as a year-round highway He was also a long-time private was born on Aug. 24 pilot, owned several airplanes, including using the first bush wheels to Logan and Stevie outside Alaska on his Super Cub that he landed in fields on the Ipsen,, New Plymouth, Ipsen ranch and was a member of the Amador County Sheriff ’s Aero Idaho. Mills weighed in Squadron that searched for missing hikers and downed aircraft in the at 7 pounds 13 ounces Sierras. and was 20 inches long. He and Janet, concerned about the quality of public education, His arrival was eagerly started and operated the Mother Lode Academy a private boarding awaited by big sisters school at Sutter Hill. Sterling (8) and Mesa (4). Mills' father is employed He was involved in the timber industry and managed the family’s by the Western Western Livestock Journal and his mom is the timber ground from forestry management to harvesting. Whether managing editor of the California Cattleman. it was operating a Caterpillar D8 bulldozer, building roads, ponds or skidding logs, hauling cattle in a large cattle truck, flying a Cessna 180 Airplane or in the saddle on a favorite horse, he excelled. He was on the first Board of Directors for the Amador Water To Share your family news, Agency and was involved in its creation. More recently, he played a obituaries, wedding or birth key role in getting the Highway 49 Bypass around downtown Sutter announcements, Creek. He is survived by sons George (Judy), John Jr. (Corinne), contact the CCA office at William (Ethel), Robert, Joel (Stephanie), and daughter Janet (Bruce (916) 444-0845 or e-mail Davis). He leaves 14 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. Family requests that no flowers be sent. Those who wish to do so magazine@calcattlemen.org. may donate in John’s memory to the American Legion Post 108 museum at Sutter Hill. October 2020 California Cattleman 51 th
NEW ARRIVAL
California Cattlemen’s Association Services for all your on-the-ranch needs
18
M i d Va l l e y
Thanks to all our buyers at the annual BCC Bull Sale! We hope to see you again in 2021!
Join us Sept 17 in Denair for our 29th annual bull sale! 5031 Jersey Island Rd • Oakley, CA 94561
BAR BAR KD KD RANCH RANCH Elevating Angus to Greater Horizons
Thank you to our 2020 Red Bluff and Modoc Sale Bull Buyers!
KENNY & DIANNE READ
CALL US FOR INFORMATION ABOUT OUR PRIVATE TREATY CATTLE OR OUR ANNUAL BULL SALE!
1485 SW King Lane • Culver, OR 97734 Ranch: (541) 546-2547 Cell: (541)480-9340 E-mail: barkdranch@msn.com visit us online at: www.barkdangusranch.com
Thank you to our 2020 Bull Buyers!
Ranch-raised Angus cattle with industry-leading genetics! VISIT US AT WWW.DONATIRANCH.COM!
916.712.3696 • 916.803.2685 jj@barrangus.com
PAICINES, CA DANNY CHAVES, MANAGER
RANCH: (831) 388-4791 • DANNY’S CELL: (831) 801-8809
52 California Cattleman October 2020
Angus
RAnch
Annual Sat.,annual September 1, 2018 JoinBull us Sale: for our female Inauguralproduction Female Sale: Mon., October sale Oct. 1215, 2018
Offering bulls at California’s top consignment sales! Call today about private treaty offerings!
Tim & Marilyn Callison............................... Owners Chad Davis ..................................... 559 333 0362 Travis Coy ...................................... 559 392 8772 Justin Schmidt................................ 209 585 6533 Ranch Website ................. www.ezangusranch.com
RED RIVER FARMS 13750 West 10th Avenue Blythe, CA 92225 Office: 760-922-2617 Bob Mullion: 760-861-8366 Michael Mullion: 760-464-3906
Simmental – SimAngus™ – Angus
18
M i d Va l l e y
LOOK FOR US AT LEADING SALES IN 2020.
O’NEAL RANCH Gerber, CA
— Since 1878—
“Thank you!” to our 2020 bull buyers! O’NEAL RANCH BULLS OFFER THE COMPLETE PACKAGE
Registered Angus Cattle Call to see what we have to offer you!
H R
Scott & Shaleen Hogan
(530) 200-1467
• (530) 227-8882
Thank you to all of our 2019 bull and female buyers!
Join us for our 2020 “PARTNERS FOR PERFORMANCE” FEMALE PRODUCTION SALES
OCTOBER 10 in Firebaugh
GROWTH • PERFORMANCE ADAPTABILITY • CARCASS
Contact us for information on cattle available private treaty.
Gary & Betsy Cardoza
PO Box 40 • O’Neals, CA 93645 (559) 999-9510
Celebrating Angus Tradition Ssince 1974
October 2020 California Cattleman 53
CHENEY, WA • (916) 417-4199 Contact Clinton Brightwell for assistance marketing or buying your Hereford Cattle! (417) 359-6893 THURSDAY, SEPT. 10, 2020
CARLWULFF57@GMAIL.COM WWW.WULFFBROTHERSLIVESTOCK.COM
Thank you for attending the annual TAR bull sale! Join us again in 2021!
(530) 385-1570
E-mail................................tehamaranch@gmail.com
11500 N Ambassador Drive, Suite 410 | Kansas City, MO 64153 | (816) 842-3757 | aha@hereford.org
MCPHEE RED ANGUIS Call us today for information on private treaty bulls or females. 14298 N. Atkins Rd • Lodi, CA 95248 Nellie, Mike, Mary, Rita & Families Nellie (209) 727-3335 • Rita (209) 607-9719 website: www.mcpheeredangus.com
Chris Beck • 618-367-5397
Registered Hereford Cattle & Quarter Horses
A FAMILY TRADITION
Thank you to our 2020 buyers!
Angus and SimAngus Cattle John Teixeira: (805) 448-3859 Allan Teixeira: (805) 310-3353 Tom Hill: (541) 990-5479
Annual Sale First Monday in March 42500 Salmon Creek Rd Baker City, OR 97814
Ranch: (541) 523-4401 Bob Harrell, Jr.: (541) 523-4322
www.teixeiracattleco.com | cattle@thousandhillsranch.com
CHAROLAIS
JOIN US OCT 11 IN MODESTO FOR OUR ANNUAL PRODUCTION SALE!
Feedlot • Rice • Charolais 2015 AICA Seedstock Producer of the Year
Jerry & Sherry Maltby
OFFICE@VINTAGEANGUSRANCH.COM WWW.VINTAGEANGUSRANCH.COM
PO Box 760 Williams, CA bbr@citlink.net
54 California Cattleman October 2020
Mobile: (530) 681-5046 Office (530) 473-2830 www.brokenboxranch.com
3L
“Breeding with the Commercial Cattleman in Mind”
79337 Soto Lane Fort Rock, OR 97735 Ken 541.403.1044 | Jesse 541.810.2460 ijhufford@yahoo.com | www.huffordherefords.com
JOIN US IN OROVILLE FOR OUR BUTTE BULL SALE OCTOBER 17! CONTACT US FOR CATTLE AVAILABLE PRIVATE TREATY OFF THE RANCH
Oroville, CA LambertRanchHerefords.com
REGISTERED HEREFORD CATTLE
Building Extremely High Quality Beef Since 1978
“THE BRAND YOU CAN COUNT ON”
Bulls and females available private treaty!
Call us about our upcoming consignments or private treaty cattle available off the ranch.
BARRY, CARRIE & BAILEY MORRELL
La Grange, CA • Greeley Hill, CA Stephen Dunckel • (209) 878-3167 www.tubleweedranch.net twd@tumbleweedranch.net
Barry: (530) 6825808 • Carrie: (530) 218-5507 Bailey (530) 519-5189 morrellranches@yahoo.com 560 County Road 65, Willows CA 95988
Pitchfork Cattle Co.
SPANISH RANCH Your Source for Brangus and Ultrablack Genetics in the West!
Hereford Bulls Now AvAilABle!
OFFERING HEREFORD BULLS BUILT FOR THE COMMERCIAL CATTLEMAN
Dave Goss PO Box 13 Vinton, CA 96135 530-993-4636
P.W. GILLIBRAND Cattle Co.
THE DOIRON FAMILY (707) 481-3440 • Bobby Mickelson, Herdman, (707) 396-7364
Daniel & Pamela Doiron 805-245-0434 Cell doiron@spanishranch.net www.spanishranch.net
THD ©
LITTLE SHASTA RANCH
Genetics That Get Results!
Horned and Polled Hereford Genetics
Private treaty bulls available or watch for our consignments at Cal Poly! Dwight Joos Ranch Manager P.O. Box 1019 • Simi Valley, CA 93062 805-520-8731 x1115 • Mobile 805-428-9781 dwight.joos@pwgcoinc.com (707) 481-3440 • Bobby Mickelson, Herdman, (707) 396-7364 Simi Valley, CA
pwgillibrandcattle.com
offering sons of this standout herdsire
POTTERS DISCOVERY C209
Call anytime to see what we can offer you!
Stan Sears 5322 Freeman Rd. Montague, CA 96064 (530) 842-3950
h
October 2020 California Cattleman 55
Full Service JMM GENETICS A.I. Technician
Premium Livestock Feeds “PERFORMANCE THROUGH WWW.BARALEINC.COM ADVANCED (888) 258-3333NUTRITION” • Williams, CA Matt Zappetini 526-0106 • Mineral Mixes with(530) Ranch Delivery • mzappetini@baraleinc.com • Hi Mag - Fly Control - Rumensin - Custom Mixes • Performance Through • Complete Feeds and Finish Mixes • Advanced Nutrition
SALE MANAGEMENT www.baraleinc.com • (888) 258-3333
• A.I, CIDR & heat synchronization •Proudly Extensive experience Featuring Conventional • Willing to Travel Non-GMO Certified Organic • Well-versed in dairy & beef pedigrees
Sales Representatives:
JORGE MENDOZA • (530) 519-2678 jmmawss@gmail.com 15880 Sexton Road, Escalon, CA Matt Zappetini (530) 526-0106
Williams, CA Matt Zappetini (530) 526-0106 mzappetini@baraleinc.com
Tracy Lewis (530) 304-7246
Ranch Deliveries Available with our Truck and Forklift! We
& Semen Distributor
1011 Fifth Street Williams, CA. 95987 888-473-3333 info@baraleinc.com WWW.BARALEINC.COM
also offer custom formulations to meet your specific nutritional needs!
SALE MANAGEMENT M3 MARKETING
REAL ESTATE
We offer blends that contain: Molasses - Zinpro® Performance Minerals - Availa® 4 - Added Selenium Yeast - Rumensin® Available
SALE MANAGEMENT & MARKETING PHOTOGRAPHY & VIDEOGRAPHY ORDER BUYING PRIVATE TREATY SALES PRODUCTION SALE RING SERVICE ADVERTISING
M3CATTLEMARKETING@GMAIL.COM (916) 803-3113
KNIPE LAND COMPANY
Idaho - Weiser River Ranch
2,103± acre cattle/hunting ranch has 587± irrigated, 3+ miles of river frontage, creek, ponds, hunting lodge, 3 homes, hay storage & numerous upgrades! Ranch can support 1,500± AUs per grazing season, and has 2 gravel sources for added income. Excellent hunting for waterfowl, game birds, elk and deer. $7,700,000 Sale Pending on 454± acres.
(208) 345-3163 knipeland.com
YOUR BUSINESS AD COULD BE LISTED HERE FOR AS LITTLE AS $400 PER YEAR! 3300 Longmire Drive• College Station, TX 77845 (800) 768-4066 • (979) 693-0388 fax: (979) 693-7994 e-mail: info@bovine-elite.com
56 California Cattleman October 2020
FOR DETAILS, CONTACT MATT MACFARLANE AT (916) 803-3113 OR
M3CATTLEMARKETING@GMAIL.COM
RANCHING TAKES GOOD PARTNERS. PARTNER WITH WSR.
Over the past eight years, WSR Insurance Services (WSR) has helped hundreds of CCA members with their Pasture, Range, Forage insurance needs. Last year, CCA expanded its partnership with WSR. In 2020, WSR will continue to partner with CCA to assist members with all their insurance needs. WSR’s commitment to their customers and the cattle industry makes this partnership a win-win for CCA members. Contact WSR now to see what opportunities may exist for you! For more information on the partnership contact WSR’s:
CCA members can benefit from WSR’s competitive pricing and best in the industry customer service. Give WSR a call today and find our what insurance packages may suit your needs at the best price!
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Kevin Hoppin, CIC kevinh@wsrins.com (530) 662-9181
October 2020 California Cattleman 57
Advertisersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Index Amador Angus.....................................................52 American AgCredit.............................................31 American Angus Associatoin............................49 American Hereford Assocaition........................54 Animal Health International..............................56 ArrowQuip...........................................................13 Bar 7 Genetics......................................................29 Bar Ale..................................................................56 Bar KD Ranch......................................................52 Bar R Angus.........................................................52 Bentz Ranch.........................................................44 Bovine Elite LLC..................................................56 Broken Box Ranch...............................................54 Buchanan Angus Ranch.....................................52 Byrd Cattle Co......................................................52 Cattlemen's Livestock Market..................... 25, 33 Charron Ranch....................................................52 Chico State College of Ag...................................56 CoBank.................................................................31 Conlin Supply Co. Inc.........................................35 Dal Porto Livestock.............................................52 Dixie Valley Angus....................................... 52, 59 Donati Ranch.......................................................52 Eagle Pass Ranch.................................................19 EZ Angus Ranch..................................................53 Farm Credit West................................................31 Freitas Rangeland Improvements......................20 Fresno State Ag Foundation...............................56
Furtado Angus.....................................................53 Furtado Livestock Enterprises...........................56 Gareth Fisher Pipe...............................................44 GenePlus...............................................................45 Genoa Livestock..................................................54 Gilliland Land & Cattle.......................................41 Harrell Hereford Ranch......................................54 HAVE Angus........................................................53 Heron Pacific Fencing.........................................47 Hogan Ranch........................................................53 Hone Ranch..........................................................55 Hufford's Herefords.............................................54 JMM Genetics......................................................56 Kessler Angus.......................................................53 Knipe Land Company.........................................56 Lambert Ranch............................................... 3, 55 Little Shasta Ranch..............................................55 M3 Marketing......................................................56 McPhee Red Angus.............................................54 Morrell Ranches...................................................55 Multimin...............................................................15 New Generation Supplements...........................35 Noahs Angus Ranch............................................53 O'Connell Ranch.................................................53 O'Neal Ranch.......................................................53 Orland Livestock Commission Yard.................20 P.W. Gillibrand Cattle Co....................................55 Pacific Trace Minerals.........................................56
58 California Cattleman October 2020
Pitchfork Cattle Co..............................................55 Red River Farms..................................................53 Sammis Ranch.....................................................53 Schafer Ranch......................................................53 Schohr Herefords.................................................55 Shasta Farm & Equipment.................................16 Shasta Livestock Auction Yard...........................11 Sierra Ranches......................................................55 Silveira Bros..........................................................53 Soaring Eagle of the Ozarks...............................43 Sonoma Mountain Herefords............................55 Spanish Ranch......................................................55 Stepaside Farms...................................................54 Stokrose Angus....................................................21 Tehama Angus Ranch.........................................54 Teixeira Cattle Co................................................54 Thomas Angus Ranch.......................................6, 7 Tumbleweed Ranch............................................55 Turlock Livestock Auction Yard..........................9 VF Red Angus......................................................54 Vintage Angus Ranch.........................................60 Vintage Angus Ranch.........................................54 Western Stpckman's Market...............................39 Western Video Market..........................................2 Wraith, Scarlett and Randolph Insurance........57 Wulff Brothers Livestock....................................54
“PERFORMANCE, GROWTH & CARCASS GENETICS”
2020 Cal Poly Bull Test Toppers
SELLING OCTOBER 4 • OPPENHEIMER EQUINE FACLITY, SAN LUIS OBISPO Low Birth Champion
LOT 102 Sterling No Doubt 9108
LOT 95 Sterling Enhance 976
AAA 19724953 DOB 8/4/19 DNA HD50K ACT BW 72 ADJ WW 779 ADJ YW 1205 WDA 3.08 ADG 5.03
Sire: SydGen Enhance MGS: V A R Discovery 2240 CED +9 CW +65
BW WW +0.2 +74 MARB RE +1.15 +0.97
YW +144 $B +198
Multi Trait Champion
Reserve Multi Trait Champion
AAA 19722079 DOB 8/24/19 DNA HD50K ACT BW 86 ADJ WW 653 ADJ YW 1145 WDA 3.09 ADG 5.85
MILK +30 $C +320
Sire: Hoover No Doubt MGS: G A R Prophet CED +6 CW +65
BW WW +2.6 +82 MARB RE +1.20 +0.75
YW +145 $B +175
LOT 103 Sterling Plus 9101
AAA 19724908 DOB 9/3/19 DNA HD50K ACT BW 71 ADJ WW ADJ YW WDA 2.68 ADG 4.09
Sire: SydGen Enhance MGS: Baldridge Colonel C251
MILK +25 $C +298
CED +7 CW +63
BW +1.2 MARB +1.28
WW +75 RE +101
YW +141 $B +208
MILK +35 $C +358
Plus these impressive bull test standouts.... Lot 96 Sterling Payweight 9103 AAA 19724809 DOB 8/23/19 HD50K Lot 101 Sterling Plus 9101 AAA 19726966 DOB 8/21/19 HD50K Heifer Bull Sire: Basin Payweight 1682 MGS: G A R Prophet CED +9
BW +0.8
WW +94
YW +162
MILK +26
CW +70
MARB +0.85
RE +0.38
$B +154
$C $268
Lot 97 Sterling Acclaim AAA 19731195 DOB 9/22/19 HD50K Heifer Bull Sire: Jindra Acclaim MGS: A A R Ten X 7008 SA CED +8
BW -0.1
WW +82
YW +155
MILK +41
CW +81
MARB +1.06
RE +0.58
$B +209
$C $329
Lot 99 Sterling 38 Special 968 AAA 19723979 DOB 8/1/19 HD50K
Heifer Bull Sire: Baldridge 38 Special MGS: WR Journey-1X74 CED +5
BW +2.7
WW +87
YW +148
MILK +25
CW +54
MARB +0.66
RE +0.57
$B +145
$C $256
Reserve Low-Birth Champion Sire: Connealy Confidence Plus MGS: G A R Prophet CED +9
BW +3.9
WW +91
YW +158
MILK +27
CW +76
MARB +1.08
RE +0.94
$B +188
$C $320
Lot 104 Sterling Deluxe 9105 AAA 19723806 DOB 8/23/19 HD50K Heifer Bull Sire: Diablo Deluxe 1104 MGS: Baldridge Xpand x743 CED +13
BW +0.1
WW +83
YW +145
MILK +25
CW +71
MARB +0.77
RE +0.80
$B +167
$C $298
Lot 105 Sterling No Doubt 996 AAA 19728065 DOB 8/20/19 HD50K
Growth Bull Sire: Hoover No Doubt MGS: G A R Prophet CED +1
BW +4.5
WW +89
YW +153
MILK +22
CW +66
MARB +0.88
RE +0.46
$B +163
$C $272
Lot 100 Sterling No Doubt 9107 AAA 19728078 DOB 8/24/19 HD50K Lot 106 Sterling Reno 9104 AAA 19726339 DOB 8/23/19 HD50K
Multi-Trait Bull Sire: Hoover No Doubt MGS: G A R Prophet CED +7
BW +3.0
WW +79
YW +138
MILK +33
CW +72
MARB +0.68
RE +0.76
$B +172
$C $270
Heifer Bull Sire: Spring Cove Reno MGS: G A R Prophet CED +7
BW +1.2
WW +79
YW +130
MILK +35
CW +51
MARB +1.10
RE +0.55
$B +145
$C $274
Lee Nobmann, owner • Morgon Patrick, managing partner
(530) 526-5920 • morgon@nobmanncattle.com www.dixievalleyangus.com • follow us on facebook!
PRIVATE TREATY BULLS ALWAYS AVAILABLE ON THE RANCH
Montague, CA October 2020 California Cattleman 59
THE BULL SALE
VINTAGE ANGUS WOULD LIKE TO THANK OUR 2020 BULL BUYERS... 211 BULLS GROSSED $1,837,300 2020 “CARCASS MAKER” BULL SALE CUSTOMERS
2W Cattle Co, CA Leo Acquistapace, CA Alta Genetics, AB Arellano Bravo Angus, CA Arrow Crown Angus, NE Atwood Ranch, CA Avila Ranch, CA Bengard Ranch, CA Bettencourt Livestock, CA BJ Ranch, CA Booth Ranches, CA Boston Ranch, CA Brockmere Farms Inc., MO Robert Brunker, CA Bud Musachia, CA Byrd Cattle Co., CA Campbell Ranches Inc., CA Carver Bowen Ranch, CA Centennial Livestock, CA Costa Land & Cattle, CA Robert Cree, CA Carl Daniel, CA JW Dell’Orto, CA Stan & Robin Dell’Orto, CA Flynn Cattle Company, CA Kelly Fogarty, CA William Fogarty, CA Jody Fuller, CA Garlinger Cattle Co, CA Garone Ranch, CA Gilliland Livestock, Inc., CA Grigory Ranch, CA Grimmius Cattle, CA Ed Grub, CA Guess Cattle Co. LLC, CA Hackers Ranch, CA Hoffman Ranch, NE Hoover Cattle Co., CA Indian Valley Cattle Co., CA
Jim & Michelle Prewett, CA JLG Enterprises, CA JV Angus, CA Lindsay Ranch, CA Lone Valley Ranch, CA Janice Marciel, CA Martin Land & Catlle, CA McDonald Properties, CA Ken Morrison Ranches, CA Mount Echo Ranch, CA Joe Murray, CA Logan Nuttall, CA Paul Righetti Ranch Co., CA Jon Pedotti, CA Charles Perkins, CA Roger Petersen, CA Mary Piasecki, CA Prestigo Angus, CA Paul Raggio, CA Rancheria Land & Livestock, CA Rancho San Julian Cattle, CA Roy Richards, CA Ruman Ranch, CA Robert Sagehorn, CA Scribner Livestock, CA Sierra Ranches, CA SJR Cattle Co, CA Darrell Stevenson, MT Taylor Ranches, OK Dennis Thomas, TX Kristi Tomera, NV Glen & Tom Truckenbrod, IL Unicor FPI Central, KY Vestal Ranch LLC, CA Wagner Land & Cattle, CA Walking C Livestock, CA Williams Livestock, CA Yates Land & Livestock, CA
$W +78 Top 10% $F +111 Top 3% $G +77 Top 3% $B +188 Top 1%
V A R PLAY MAKER 8582
$C +299 Top 2%
CED +6 | BW +2.9 | WW +75 | YW +141 | CW 65 | MARB +1.12 | RE +0.74
A special thank you to Grimmius Cattle Co., for their $50,000 selection of V A R Play Maker 8582, sired by V A R Power Play 7018, dam by V A R Discovery 2240.
$W +83 Top 4% $F +135 Top 1% $G +74 Top 4% $B +209 Top 1%
V A R LEVERAGE 9225
$C +321 Top 1%
CED +5 | BW +1.6 | WW +91 | YW +165 | CW 83 | MARB +0.94 | RE +1.05
A special thank you to Grimmius Cattle Co., for their $50,000 selection of V A R Leverage 9225 sired by Blackstone, dam by V A R Generation 2100.
$W +104 Top 1% $F +135 Top 1% $G +80 Top 2%
JIM COLEMAN, OWNER DOUG WORTHINGTON, MANAGER BRAD WORTHINGTON, OPERATIONS MIKE HALL, BULL SERVICES (805) 748-4717 2702 SCENIC BEND, MODESTO, CA 95355 (209) 521-0537 WWW.VINTAGEANGUSRANCH.COM OFFICE@VINTAGEANGUSRANCH.COM
$B +215 Top 1%
V A R FIRE POWER 9228 CED +5 | BW +2.4 | WW +94 | YW +170 | CW 91 | MARB +1.127 | RE +0.70
$C +345 Top 1%
A special thank you to Alta Genetics, for their $42,000 selection of V A R Fire Power 9228, sired by V A R Power Play 7018, dam by V A R Discovery 2240.