July 2023 - Missouri Beef Cattleman

DEPARTMENTS

Volume 52 - Issue 7 (USPS 890-240 • ISSN 0192-3056)

Magazine Publishing Office

2306 Bluff Creek Drive, #100, Columbia, MO 65201 Phone: 573-499-9162 • Fax: 573-499-9167

Andy Atzenweiler: Editor/Production/Ad Sales

P.O. Box 480977 • Kansas City, Missouri 64148 816-210-7713 • E-mail: mobeef@sbcglobal.net

Missouri Cattlemen’s Association

MCA Website: www.mocattle.com

Mike Deering • Executive Vice President - Ext 230 Mike@mocattle.com

Macey Hurst •MBC Editor/Production Artist Macey@mocattle.com

Courtney Collins, Manager of Membership– Ext 231 Courtney@mocattle.com

Aly Francis, Strategic Solutions Manager– Ext 235 Aly@mocattle.com

Lisa Stockhorst, Administrative Assistant – Ext 234 Lisa@mocattle.com

Missouri’s Cattlemen Foundation www.mocattlemenfoundation.org

Missouri’s CattleWomen

http://mocattle.com/missouricattlewomen.aspx

2023 MCA Officers

David Dick, President

660-826-0031 • 23529 Anderson School Rd., Sedalia, MO 65301

Chuck Miller, President-Elect

573-881-3589 • 393 Spring Garden Road, Olean, MO 65064

Jeff Reed, Vice President 903-279-8360 • P.O. Box 35, Williamsville, MO 63967

Marvin Dieckman, Treasurer

660-596-4163 • 28998 Hwy JJ, Cole Camp, MO 65325

Charlie Besher, Secretary

573-866-2846 • RR 5, Box 2402, Patton, MO 63662

2023 MCA Regional Vice Presidents

Region 1: Joe Lolli, 30019 Klondike Pl Macon, MO 63552 660-346-9711

Region 2: Anita Vanderwert, 4902 Cochero Ct., Columbia, MO 65203 • 573-808-3000

Region 3: Blake Crow, 1910 W. Broadway St., West Plains, MO 65775 • 417-293-9525

Region 4: Deb T hummel, 12601 Hwy. 46

Sher idan, MO 64486 • 660-541-2606

Region 5: Alex Haun, 1031 SW 600 Rd

Holden, MO 64040 • 816-345-0005

Region 6: War ren Love, 8381 NE Hwy ZZ

Osceola, MO 64776 • 417-830-1950

Region 7: Josh Wor thington, P.O. Box 246

Dadeville, MO 65635 • 417-844-2601

Halle Allen, Marceline, MO

Baylee Asbury, Missouri Soybeans, Jefferson City, MO

Trace Biere, Salisbury, MO

Shaylee Billings, Arbela, MO

Brandon Brockman, Holden, MO

Dylan Dameron, Silex, MO

Lynn Hyke, Noel, MO

Zaeli Jackson, Queen City, MO

Doris Koch, Washington, MO

Shannon Meador, Lost Creek Cattle Co, Wyandotle, OK

James Beck, Lost Creek Cattle Co, Grove, OK

Tatum McGlothlin, Richmond, MO

Jess Meredith, Seneca, MO

Bob Morehead, Seneca, MO

James Morehead, Seneca, MO

Aubrey Niess, Springfield, MO

Jacob Oakes, Neosho, MO

Jenna Richterkessing, Cuba, MO

Steve Roberts, Exeter, MO

Jackson Stone, Clinton, MO

Braxton Switzer, Bucklin, MO

Bobby Wilson, Higginsville, MO

Brooklyn Wilson, Higginsville, MO

See the MCA Membership Form on page 69

President’s Perspective

with David Dick

Thank You!

First and foremost, I want to say THANK YOU! It takes a lot of folks to make events like this happen, and happen successfully. Thanks to the staff for getting things organized and keeping things flowing until the end. Thanks to the Beef House Committe and their crew for feeding us, setting up and cleaning up. Congrats on a job well done!

Heifer buyers, I certainly appreciate you fiscally rewarding these young entrepreneurs, as well as being part of the future of the beef business. The Junior Show is over, the Replacement Heifer Show & Sale is complete, interviews and elections for Junior Officers and the Junior Board are in the books, and the Past President’s Steak Fry was a success! Your association was busy and on display!

Several facets of the industry were highlighted and open for participation on a variety of levels. While the Missouri Cattlemen’s Youth Expo is limited to Junior members, the rest was there to attend! I hope you got to watch the future of MCA walk through the showring displaying Missouri’s excellent genetics for evaluation by exceptional judges. Their explanation of ranking reasons taught not only the exhibitor, but friends, family and onlookers alike.

To Steak Fry attendees and those who participated in the silent and live auctions, I say THANK YOU for investing in MCA and being a part of its future political endeavors. This also takes time and dedication similar to the show, but of a different sort, to achieve our goals and put forth the membership in a different light. We were able to reward a group of individuals for being standup, common-sense people in the face of an onslaught of misinformation and downright lies about the MrNA issue. Remember my discussion of being doxed? These folks got death threats but remained focused and true.

We, as an association, owe them a tremendous debt of gratitude!

Does it seem like a lot going on in the span of just three days? It was. And guess what... It RAINED! Sunday was a damp, cool, showery day that was endured by those showing but still enjoyed by all. We were thankful, nonetheless, but a drought breaker it was not.

As far as rain goes, I wish it would! We are certainly in a drought, some areas worse than others, but serious just the same. I remember the 1980 drought; here in Pettis County, it was devastating. Then it was dry, got hot early and stayed that way. This is certainly different — dry but not scorched to death yet! Pasture is deteriorating and hay is in short supply or non-existent. In the 1980 drought, we would cut down trees to feed cattle. My great uncle and grandfather helped get me through that, as they had lived through “the bad years,” as he called them, of 1934 and 1936. He also recounted the drought and heat in 1954, as did my father and grandfather. While not pleasant and certainly financially encouraging, we have to survive and learn to seek opportunity, even though it seems not to be there.

The weather isn’t holding us back in some ways as we are in full preparation for the Missouri State Fair! The Beef House crew is planning and preparing to have a funfilled run! So on Pat and Patty’s behalf, please consider volunteering and helping out. We need the help, and what better way to promote our product, talk about what we do, and interact with those of a political nature for our common good? We’ll see you there!

THANKS again, and keep praying for rain!

MCA President

Straight Talk

with Mike Deering

I’m More Than a Bill

The Governor’s desk is full of proposals from the 2023 legislative session. Governor Mike Parson has the daunting task of deciding what to do with those pieces of legislation and budget items. He has to review each one, and, from there, he really has three options. He can sign it. He can veto it. He can do nothing and let it go into law without his signed approval. It is certainly a process best outlined by the 1976 Schoolhouse Rock! segment, “I’m Just a Bill.” I personally believe every American needs to watch that segment to truly understand the legislative process.

Appropriation decisions must be made by June 30, and policy decisions will be made by July 14. If signed into law, the provisions of each signed bill will become effective August 28, unless the legislation contained an emergency clause or included a specific effective date. Every single bill is important to someone, so there is no shortage of lobbying going on with each provision having its own cheerleading squad. There needs to be a follow-up to the 1976 classic called, “I’m More Than a Bill,” describing how the lobbying and advocacy part of this process works.

While I outlined the bills (some of which do carry fiscal notes) important to this association in my column last month, I am going to dive into budget items we support and are encouraging the Governor to get behind.

While traditionally a problem in southern Missouri, black headed vultures are steadily working their way through all regions of the state and causing serious economic impact to livestock producers. Thanks largely to Rep. Scott Cupps (R158) and Sen. Lincoln Hough (R-30), $1.66 million was set aside to ramp up education and outreach efforts to producers dealing with these vultures that prey on livestock.

There are also significant funds proposed for the construction and renovation of the Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory at the University of Missouri. Missouri absolutely needs to be equipped to handle any and all animal disease

Executive Vice President

outbreaks in an efficient and effective manner that minimizes the economic devastation to farm and ranch families.

Also allocated for the University of Missouri is $25 million to build a meat laboratory to support education and training. We have been part of the choir advocating for a new processing facility for well over a decade. Elected leaders and industry groups often preach that we need more local processing, and that got louder during the COVID disaster, which demonstrated that our food supply chain is vulnerable. We need to get this facility built to have a training resource for meat processors as workforce development is seriously lacking in this space.

Those are the major proposals our association had a hand in securing, but there are other provisions we are monitoring, including $2.8 billion to widen I-70 and $100 million for maintenance and repair of low-volume routes. There is also $247 million allocated for broadband infrastructure, which is certainly important to many living in rural areas. There’s also a million dollars set aside for the National Center for Beef Excellence to develop a national cattle registry and database for smaller breed associations.

Your association is in the know and on top of the issues important to you and your family. It isn’t just about drafting a bill and passing a bill, it’s getting the measure across the finish line, which happens to be the Governor’s desk. Your priorities are our priorities, and I encourage you to get engaged by bringing issues important to you to your county affiliate and then to the state level.

Regional Range Report

by Joseph Lolli, Region 1 Vice President

Outstanding Youth Support

The summer is warming up as farmers and ranchers are planting crops, making hay, and working cattle here in the Northeast Missouri! The local youth are getting their projects ready to exhibit at their county fairs, as well as the Missouri State Fair. Several of the kids from around the northeastern portion of Missouri attended the Missouri Cattlemen’s Youth Expo, June 9 - 11, at the Missouri State Fairgrounds, to show off their cattle before going to their county fairs.

Our region’s MCA members are looking forward to working at the Beef House at the Missouri State Fair coming up in August. The Beef House is always one of my favorite places to attend during the fair.

Here in our part of the state, the drought conditions are getting a little bit tougher, all while hay prices rise and hay availability remains low. With all of this being said, we are starting to see several people cull a little harder on their cowherds, and many farmers and ranchers are bringing their calves to town a lot sooner than in years past. The market prices are definitely as good this year as they have been in almost 10 years, which has really helped the producers make their operations work. Several people say that they have noticed a similar trend to what we saw in the 2012-2014 time period where we had higher cattle prices and higher hay prices due to the drought conditions at that time.

This past winter/spring banquet season, I was able to attend a few banquets around my region. I must say, the continued support of our youth in this industry is simply outstanding. Year after year, our banquet here in Macon County continues to grow in numbers, and the support for our young people wanting to pursue a degree in an agriculture-related field is amazing. In Macon County, there were several gun raffles that really drew a lot of interest, as well as several great auction items. The Linn County Cattlemen had their second banquet since

Region 1 VP - Joseph Lolli

Region 2 VP - Anita Vanderwert

Region 3 VP - Blake Crow

Region 4 VP - Deb Thummel

they have been back in action, and that was another outstanding event where a lot of money was raised and several scholarships were given.

The Randolph/Chariton Cattlemen’s banquet was a full house again this year in Salisbury, with a large amount of support for the area youth. There were a couple of banquets in my region I did not get to attend but heard many great things about. The NEMO Cattlemen’s Association banquet was a sold out event as well, with lots of great auction items that demanded great prices. The NEMO banquet held in Kirksville is always an exciting event to attend with a very fun crowd. The Shelby/Monroe Cattlemen’s Association banquet was racing into another fun banquet with the “Race Day” theme. I heard a lot of great things about this banquet, and I hope to be in attendance next year.

In closing, I hope everyone has a great summer as we gear up for local county fairs and the Missouri State Fair. I pray each and everyday that we will receive the much needed rain throughout the dry parts of the country to quench the thirst of the crops and pasture land. As always, feel free to reach out to me with any questions or if you just want to talk cattle.

See you down the trail!

Region 5 VP - Alex Haun

Region 6 VP - Warren Love

Region 7 VP - Josh Worthington

At-Large Rep. - John Cauthorn

Coming Home to New Beginnings

by Aly Francis

When I walked across the stage at Oklahoma State University to receive my diploma and then made my final drive out of Stillwater, Oklahoma I couldn’t help but feel sad to leave behind the memories from best four years of my life. Although it felt like I was making another trip home for the summer, I knew I wouldn’t be back as an OSU student in the upcoming fall. The countless friends and bonus family I made, the long nights spent studying or writing in Edmon Low Library, and the weekends of dancing at Outlaws were all in my review mirror. However, as I kept driving and crossed the Oklahoma/Missouri state line, I also felt excited and at peace because I was coming home and starting a new chapter in my life.

As of June 5, 2023, I have officially begun my new journey as the manager of strategic solutions for the Missouri Cattlemen’s Association based in the association’s headquarters office in Columbia, Missouri. I am a recent graduate of Oklahoma State University where I majored in animal science and agricultural communications. While attending college, I was a member of the Oklahoma Collegiate Cattlewomen and then served as the 2021-2022 vice president as well as 2020-2021 state liaison.

I am no stranger to the cattle industry or MCA as I grew up on a diversified livestock operation consisting of sheep and a commercial cow/calf operation in Paris, Missouri. I quickly became involved with my local

Manager of Strategic Solutions

Monroe-Shelby County Cattlemen’s Association by serving ribeye sandwiches at events and attending monthly board meetings. Through my local involvement, I was fortunate to receive a scholarship to attend the Missouri Junior Cattlemen’s Youth Industry Tour in Northwest Missouri.

From then on, I was hooked and continued my involvement through being a Missouri Junior Cattlemen’s Association member, serving on the MJCA junior board, interning in the summer of 2021, as well as volunteering myself for numerous MCA events over the years. The cattlemen and women of Missouri have always made me feel right at home and that is why I chose to come back home to Missouri to serve in a new capacity as the manager of strategic solutions. I will be responsible for non-dues revenue, serve the Missouri Beef Cattleman publication, and manage overall association communications.

I was blessed to grow up in the cattle industry, and I am excited to join the team of hardworking individuals here at MCA to ensure Missouri’s cattle producers’ voices are heard through various communication efforts. I appreciate this important opportunity and look forward to this new beginning in my life.

What’s Cookin’ at the

Missouri Beef House

By the MCA Beef House Committee

Volunteer Jobs

The meat is ordered, the house has been cleaned, now all we need is YOU! Our Missouri Beef House will be open during the Missouri State Fair from August 10-20, 2023, in Sedalia. So why do we need YOU?

While we do have a small group of paid staff to carry on the day-to-day operation during the fair, we have numerous jobs that YOU can do to make our operation run smoothly and efficiently, and honestly, we cannot do without YOU! Whether you are experienced or new, we will instruct you and be there for you with a smile. We have all the aprons, hats, gloves, spatulas, spoons, etc. We just need YOU! So that you can start thinking now, the basic list of jobs includes:

Greeter-Stand outside our front door to welcome guests and direct them to the serving line

Runner: Takes order ticket from Order Taker to behind counter to Caller & keep silverware filled

BBQ/Burger/Beef Dog/Bun Station: Place meat on bun for orders called for these items… Gloves required

Drink Machine: Scoop ice in cups and fill to order with Pepsi products… Gloves required

Front Grill Burgers: Cook our delicious beef burgers

Front Line Server: Place fries or baked potato or toast on plate… need good listening left ear to hear Caller request and will be standing close to hot grills…

Gloves required

Steak Stick Station: Place rare, medium-rare, medium, medium-well, well-done steak sticks on plate/bun to assist Steak Grillers as to what has been ordered… Gloves required

Salad Server & Condiment Table: Keep prepared bowls of salad on Salad Buffet and check/fill items on Condiment Table… Gloves required

Salad Prep: Cut tomato slices and fill salad bowls with lettuce… Gloves required

Toast Station: Place bread in toaster and then butter one side… Gloves required

French Fries Station: Place frozen fries in fryers… will be standing close to hot fryer, grills, and ovens

Dishwasher: Wash pots, pans, spatulas, carving knives, etc… customers tableware is throw-away

Garbage Patrol & Ice Man: Monitor all trash cans and pull full sacks to our dumpster in back as well as keep an eye on ice at Drink Stations… washing hands required!

Bus Tables Inside/Outside: Need at least 2-3+ depending on how many your group brings… to take trays from customers, wipe tables and refill tea/coffee/ water

Beef House Express: Need at least 2+ depending on how many your group brings to serve drinks, beef/ cheese burger, BBQ, or beef dog in our sandwich shop behind the Beef House… no cooking required

We will sign up for your volunteer job during orientation which will be held under the Beef House patio cover approximately 30 minutes before your shift is to start. We’ll meet and greet you soon!

Don’t forget to Like us on Facebook at www.facebook. com/MoCattle. During the fair, we will be posting pics!

Thought for the month: Little Boy Blue, go shut the gate; the sheep’s in the meadow, the cows on the plate!

2023 Missouri Beef House County Volunteer (tentative) Work Schedule August 10-20

Please arrive 30 minutes prior to your shift for volunteer orientation. The Beef House hours of operation are 11 am – 9 pm.

If your county is unable to work the assigned shift, please contact Courtney Collins at 573-999-2499.

Your BEEF CHECKOFF NEWS

The Ultimate Summer Beef Grilling Guide

Source: by Erica Graessle-Loethen

It’s time to fire up the grill and relish in a sizzling summer full of BEEF! A high-quality protein source containing essential vitamins and minerals, including iron, choline, and zinc, BEEF is a nutritious centerof-the-plate option to highlight on your summertime menu. So … whether you’re grilling a quick, light-andhealthy meal or hosting a savory cookout with friends and family, be sure to keep these tips top-of-mind for a flawless grilled meal!

1. Consider your cut. While grilling classics, such as Strip Steak, Ribeye, and Top Sirloin can be an easy go-to, there are endless options when it comes to cuts of beef. Why not try taking your grilling game up a notch with a cut you might not be as familiar with, like a juicy Flat Iron or a lean, flavorful Flank Steak? Ground beef for burgers is obviously a great choice, too!

2. Elevate those flavors. Marinades and rubs are great ways to take beef to the next level with minimal effort. To add extra flavor to tender cuts (such as Ribeye, Strip Steak, Top Sirloin, and Flat Iron) try marinating with your favorite steak rub or salt and pepper for six hours or less. For less tender cuts, marinating for at least six hours, but not more than 24 hours, will not only add flavor but help tenderize your steak as well. BEEF TIP: To help the seasoning stick better, rub a little olive oil on your steak beforehand.

3. Medium and steady wins the race.

When it comes to cooking beef, there is typically no need to rush the process by using any higher heat than medium. Cooking at medium heat allows beef to achieve caramelization while still developing rich flavors and avoiding charring.

4. Temperature is king.

To have the best eating experience, it is important to cook beef to the correct internal temperature. Insert an instant read thermometer through the side of the thickest part of the steak to get an accurate temperature.

BEEF TIP: Remove beef from heat 5-10 degrees before it reaches your ideal temperature. Beef will continue cooking after it’s removed from heat.

5. Rest and slice.

Allow steak to rest three minutes before slicing. This will allow the juices to redistribute and the internal temperature to rise to desired doneness without overcooking.

6. Relax and enjoy!

Give yourself a good ol’ pat on the back, and slice into your tender, juicy steak! Now you can truly say you know how to grill the perfect steak!

Missouri Cattlemen’s Youth Expo40th Annual MCA All-Breeds Junior Show

600 Head Exhibited by More Than 300 Youth

The Missouri Cattlemen’s Association and the Missouri Junior Cattlemen’s Association hosted the 40th Annual MCA All-Breeds Junior Show, June 9-11 at the Missouri State Fairgrounds in Sedalia, Missouri.

Exhibitors and livestock left an impression on MCA Manager of Membership Courtney Collins.

“We are extremely proud of exhibitors this year. You can see the hard work that a lot of these exhibitors are putting into their projects, day in and day out.” Collins said. “We completed the show with over 600 head of cattle and over 300 exhibitors.”

The show concluded on Sunday with judges Randy Mullinix and Isaac Taber selecting the supreme champions.

The Grand Champion Heifer went to the Angus owned heifer exhibited by Blake Freeman from Koshkonong. The Reserve Champion Heifer was the Reserve Angus owned shown by Olivia Gerloff from Bland. The Grand Champion Market Animal went to the crossbred steer exhibited by Clara Wallace from Vandalia. The reserve

market animal was the maintainer steer shown by Avery Schroeder from Miami.

Supreme Senior Showmanship Champion went to Lucas Crutcher from Fair Grove with Reserve Senior Showmanship Champion going to Karlee May Favor from Marshfield. Intermediate Showmanship Champion went to Samuel Jordan from Savannah, with Reserve Intermediate Showmanship Champion go to Aubrie Burton from Chillicothe. Junior Showmanship Champion went Cambry Woodworth from Chillicothe, with Reserve Junior Showmanship Champion going to Nora Kate McGaugh from Carrolton.

“This show would not have been possible without the MJCA Board of Directors, MCA Youth Advisory Committee and the countless volunteers who helped throughout the weekend,” Collins said. “We truly appreciate everyone’s dedication to making the show happen.”

For more results from the 2023 MCA All-Breeds Junior Show, stay tuned for the August Missouri Beef Cattlemen’s feature.

Thanks to all the Sponsors for Their Support

• Missouri Angus Association

• Missouri Red Angus Association

• Missouri State Fair Foundation

• Missouri Simmental Association

• Missouri Shorthorn Association

• Missouri State Block & Bridle

• Pearl’s Pics

• University of Central Missouri

For more results from the 2023 MCA All-Breeds Junior Show, stay tuned for the August Missouri Beef Cattleman feature.

MJCA Replacement Heifer Show & Sale Second Annual Replacement Heifer Sale a Big Success

The Missouri Cattlemen’s Association hosted the 2nd Annual Replacement Heifer Show & Sale on June 9 and 10 in conjunction with its traditional cattle show.

“The Missouri Cattlemen’s Association has a lot of youth exhibitors participating in showing cattle, and that’s amazing. We also have a lot of youth involved in commercial cattle production during the shows,” said MCA President David Dick. “The replacement heifer program provides youth an opportunity to showcase their cattle and get them involved in youth activities.”

There were five pens of bred heifers and three pens of open heifers for a total 16 females. The open heifers averaged $1,967 and the bred heifers averaged $2,840. All bred heifers were Show-Me-Select certified. Dick said the show and sale was a success, and he is excited for the program to grow in numbers in years to come.

The champion open pen went to Ethan Vanderwert from Columbia. The reserve champion open pen was Christian Siegel from California. The champion and reserve bred pens went to Kipton Thummel from Sheridan.

“I fully expect this program to grow each and every year,” Dick said. “The youth exhibitors learn firsthand what it’s like to be a commercial producer, raising and marketing a quality product. There’s no other youth program like it in the state.”

Thank You Sponsors!

2023 Sponsors

• Sullivans

• Gene’s Boots & Hats

• University of Central Missouri

• Rooted Cowgirl Boutique

• M.B.I.C.

• Buchheit, Inc.

Thanks to Rep. Bradley Pollitt, right, for purchasing Ethan Vanderwert’s Champion pen of open heifers. Glen Dieckman, left, purchased the reserve champion pen of bred heifers from Kipton Thummel. Thanks to all the buyers.

MCA Cattlemen’s Steak Fry 2023 Raises Over $70,000

The Missouri Cattlemen’s Association Policy and Legislative Affairs Committee Chair Jimmie Long said the 20th Annual Cattlemen’s Steak Fry held June 10 was a success attracting around 500 people. The event honors past MCA presidents and raises funds for the association’s Political Action Committee.

“This is a fun event with an important purpose. Participants take time to recognize the efforts of the association’s past presidents and also raise significant

funds for the PAC,” said Long, adding that this year’s event raised over $70,000. “These funds will be used to help elect leaders who understand and value Missouri agriculture.”

The event has grown substantially in the last few years, according to Long who himself is a past MCA president. He attributes the success to the growing awareness that it takes money to ensure the right candidates are

Continued on page 28

elected and they understand the importance of Missouri agriculture as the top economic driver in the state.

“Farm and ranch families from all regions of the state still gather and network with other cattle producers,”

said Long. “The Beef House volunteers work hard to prepare an exceptional meal for guests. Most importantly, we still put the bright spotlight on the past presidents of the association. It was great to have so many of them present.”

COUNTY NEWS

St. Clair County Cattlemen

May is Beef Month is a big deal in the cattle industry. It promotes the very reason a cattleman continues to raise cattle for their community to enjoy good quality beef. So the Cattlemen participate in many activities in our county throughout the month.

St. Clair County Cattlemen kicked off May is Beef Month by setting up at Food Fair in Appleton City, Carney’s Five Star Supermarket in Osceola, and Buzz’s Market in Collins for the community to sign up to win two $125 Beef Bundles, two Beef Logo Lawn Chairs and one Grill Set at each store. Winners were drawn that day.

Winners at Buzz’s Market were Araka Breshears - $125 Beef Bundle, Terry Warren - $125 Beef Bundle, Kay Ahlers - Beef Logo Lawn Chair, Marilyn Nance - Beef Logo Lawn Chair and Mark Hutchinson – Grill Set.

See What’s Happening in Your County

Winners at Carney’s Five Star Supermarket were Rick Bray - Beef Bundle, Logan Carney - $125 Beef Bundle, Linda Campbell - Beef Logo Lawn Chair, Judy ByrneBeef Logo Lawn Chair, and Avery Kilgore – Grill Set.

Winners at Food Fair were Mark Phillips - $125 Beef Bundle, Nathan Rosbrugh - $125 Beef Bundle, Mark Freemyer - Beef Logo Lawn Chair, Jeff Fauvrette - Beef Logo Chair, and Betty Rosbrugh – Grill Set.

Congratulations to all the winners!

To continue the promotion of beef, St. Clair County Cattlemen put a float through the Lowry City Craft Fair parade on Saturday, May 13. The Cattlemen handed out beef sticks to the community. The parade theme was Proud to be American. Cattlemen promoted “American Life is the Best Life. Eat American Beef!” It was a fun time promoting beef in our county.

The Cattlemen, along with friends and family, held Bill Creek’s Celebration of Life on Saturday, May 20. Many friends, family and cattlemen gathered.

Bill Creek was an active, long-time member of St. Clair County Cattlemen’s Association. You could count on him to be at Cattlemen’s meetings and events. During ribeye cooking fundraisers, he would carry a sign and let people know that the Cattlemen’s ribeye sandwiches are ready. He never met a stranger and always greeted people with a smile. He was a board member, a past president, and most of all, a proud supporter of Mo Beef

Kids. Bill, the meeting is adjourned for now, ‘til we meet again.

The Cattlemen had a successful May is Beef Month, and we look forward to continuing our promotion of beef throughout our county!

South Central Cattlemen

The South Central Cattlemen met for their monthly meeting on Thursday, May 18, at the Extension Office in West Plains. Members and guests dined on pizza from Domino’s provided by the SCCA. There were approximately 68 members present.

Dinner was started with a blessing offered by member Sam Collins. President Dan Corman opened the meeting, welcoming all members and guests. He encouraged those that were not members to become members.

Jenny spoke about the upcoming MJCA Youth Industry Tour in August. Janet Crow introduced Christen Byrd with the USDA who spoke about current farm loan programs offered through the USDA.

Dr. Craig Payne, director of veterinary extensions from the University of Missouri - Columbia, discussed the upcoming antibiotic prescription changes that are to occur in June 2023. He stated that currently 96% of all medically important antibiotics used in food producing animals come under veterinary oversight. In June, the remaining 4% of OTC antibiotics will be required to have a veterinary prescription. Dr. Payne then went over frequently asked questions regarding the upcoming change. Some of the questions were:

1. When will a prescription be required? The change should be completed by June 11, 2023; however, antibiotic packaging is currently being printed with “Caution: Federal law restricts this drug to use by or on the order of a licensed veterinarian.” on it. Any bottle/packaging with this statement on it is required to have a prescription for it.

2. What do I do with antibiotics prior to the label change? Use them.

3. Does this impact vaccine use? No.

4. How do I get a VCPR (veterinarian-clientpatient relationship? That is up to your herd veterinarian.

5. I currently have a VCPR with my veterinarian. Will I need to do anything different? No. He then turned the floor over to Dr. Mikael Orchard of Barn Hollow.

Dr. Orchard discussed what a VCPR was and how to establish one. Per the American Veterinary Medical Association, the veterinarian will need to feel confident that the farmer/rancher will use the medicine as prescribed. Dr. Orchard went on to explain the value added to your farm by having an established VCPR, which included:

• Pregnancy diagnosis

• Breeding soundness exams

• Herd health plans

• Herd health monitoring

• Nutrition advice

• Increased calf number/cow

• Decreased respiratory diseases

• Increased profit

He then opened the floor up to questions from the group.

The South Central Cattlemen met on Saturday, June 3, for a field day at Corman Charolais in Pomona, Missouri, in place of their monthly meeting. Members and guests dined on hamburgers and all beef hot dogs provided by the Corman family and grilled by Adam Webb. There were approximately 42 members and guests present.

The day started off with President Dan Corman giving a special thank you to his wife, Connie, their children and their spouses, and grandchildren for all of their help planning and setting up for the field day; Tyler Osborn and Dan’s son-in-law, Josh Boehm for pulling the hay trailers during our tour; and to Adam Webb for grilling our lunch. Dan then gave us a brief history of his family farm. He further explained that some of the cattle in his herd are 14-22 generations of Corman breeding. Corman Charolais is primarily a fall calving herd. They expect to have approximately 40 head to calve in August. They practice intensive rotational grazing and strive to provide exceptional pasture for their herd. The Cormans use Gallagher Fence Chargers and fencing and have recently started using Timeless Fence posts in their fields. One of the benefits of using the Timeless Fence post is the posts come pre-drilled, which prevents deer from “popping off the insulators” when they run through the fence.

Agronomist Sarah Kenyon from the University of Missouri Extension Office spoke on the various grasses that the Corman’s have and their effect on cattle. She mentioned the importance of rotating fields in order to avoid toxicity issues in cattle. Livestock Specialist Elizabeth Picking from the University of Missouri Extension spoke on the importance of record keeping for your herd. By keeping accurate records, a producer will know what treatments individual cattle have received, which cattle required calving assistance, generational information, etc.

After our tour of the pastures, we enjoyed our lunch at one of Dan’s hay barns. We were blessed with a lot of good information, food and weather. Due to vacations and busy schedules, the South Central Cattlemen will not have a meeting in July. We will meet again in August with a meeting date TBD.

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October 21, 2023

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Lafayette County

Lafayette County Cattlemen finished off May is Beef Month with 1/4 lb. all beef hot dogs for 600 Lafayette County fifth graders at Law Enforcement Day in the Higginsville City Park, and by handing out 1,200 beef sticks at I-70 Speedway to race fans entering the track on May 20. Every firehouse in Lafayette County also received beef sticks in honor of Firefighter Appreciation Day.

The Missouri Cattlemen’s PAC Steak Fry was well attended by LCCA members. The county’s grill was taken to the fairgrounds, and several members grilled steaks, while others helped with decorating, meal prep, and serving. The wine basket donated to the silent auction was well received. Many Lafayette County 4-H and FFA members took part in the All-Breeds Junior Show, and Michael, Martin, and Miles Dieckmann had entries in the Replacement Heifer Show & Sale.

Plans for the Scholarship Auction and Prime Rib dinner were finalized at the June 14 board meeting held at the MU Extension Office in Higginsville. The event will be held Thursday, July 20, at the Concordia Community Center. A prime rib dinner served by Randy Hinck of Plowboys at Marshall, will be followed by the auction

to support Lafayette County Cattlemen scholarships. Everyone is welcome to attend and should RSVP to lafcocattlemens@gmail.com.

Martin Dieckmann introduced his bred heifers at the Replacement Heifer Sale.

LCCA members took time away from grilling at the Steak Fry to visit with State Representative Kurtis Gregory.

David Rasa and Scott Bergsieker representing the Corder Dover Fire Protection District.

Southwest Missouri Cattlemen

Happy July! We hope you are able to join us for a unique and exciting Southwest Missouri Cattlemen’s Association Fall Tour. Travel with us Friday, September 15, and Saturday, September 16, across Oklahoma and Kansas, viewing the cattle and beef industries and spending time with industry leaders in a turnkey, overnight experience. All meals, lodging and transportation costs will be included in the registration fee!

To register, contact Nathan Isakson at 573-578-2518 as soon as possible to guarantee your spot!

At this time, we have 24 individuals registered. For this particular trip, transportation companies will only send a 56 passenger bus. We anticipate our roster will continue to grow; in order to provide an accurate transportation fee, we need as many individuals to register as soon as possible. Our goal is to nearly fill the bus to minimize transportation cost for our members!

Each day will begin around 6:30 a.m.; we will enjoy a catered meal for dinner and supper at our noon and evening tour sites. Friday’s stops include Neosho Valley Feeders, SE Kansas Research & Extension Center, Creekstone Packers and the OSU North Range.

Saturday’s locations are Pfeiffer Angus Farms, Willard Sparks or Sadler Ranch, Sooner Cattle Company and A-Cattle Company.

Our Fall Tour Planning Chairman, Dr. Adam McGee, has done an outstanding job in planning a quality and well-balanced tour for each of us to experience! Be sure to check back in August as any updates will be posted in this column, just prior to our September monthly meeting.

As we celebrate America’s 247th birthday, I’d imagine red meat will find its way to the centerpiece of a redwhite-and-blue Independence Day. Although the challenges are often plentiful, let’s look to Galatians 6:9 for this month’s inspiration: “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” Not only does this verse make me think of national and agriculture challenges, it brings about a great level of thanks for the efforts and sacrifices of our founding fathers, granting each of us the ability to proudly say we are all Americans.

God Bless,

Nathan Isakson, President - Southwest Missouri Cattlemen’s Association

SEMO Cattlemen

The SEMO Cattlemen’s Association promoted May is Beef Month in various ways to reach a broad audience.

Members grilled a hamburger and beef hot dog lunch for Play Day at Leopold School and an end of school celebration at Oak Ridge School. Hamburgers and beef hot dogs were donated to a kid’s fishing event for FosterAdopt Connect.

Every Saturday in May, time was spent at Ken’s Ace Hardware in Jackson. Two Saturdays, members were also at Rozier’s Food Center in Perryville. Customers at each location were able to sample beef dishes like brisket, flank tacos, chuck roast burnt ends and smash burgers. Beef recipes and other information were handed out, as well.

Area radio stations hosted members on the air who promoted May is Beef Month. Listeners could register for prizes of gift cards to area businesses and restaurants that carry beef products.

Thanks to all the members that helped make this year’s May is Beef Month promotion a success!

Vernon County

The Vernon County Cattlemen had their annual booth at Nevada’s Bushwhacker Days celebration. They sold lots of delicious ribeye sandwiches, hamburgers and BBQ beef sandwiches.

Franklin County

May is Beef Month, and Franklin County Cattlemen’s Association has been busy supporting the cause.

On May 12, the Cattlemen did a ribeye steak and burger fundraiser for our local police officer who was seriously wounded in Hermann, Missouri. They sold 1,200 steaks and 325 burgers in support of Adam Sullentrup and his family.

The proceeds, plus an additional donation from the Cattlemen, are going toward his recovery expenses. He is currently in Denver at a rehab facility and his wife has been by his side. The outpouring of the community support was tremendous.

The next day, the 4-H club of Krakow sold steaks and burgers again at the same location, selling another 225.

Thanks to board member Mike Koch for his leadership on the fundraisers, and thanks to our board members who all pitched in to make this a successful two days. Many thanks to our beef queen, Cady Koch, who designed the webpage and for going out to businesses to get their support for the Sullentrup fundraiser. Many thanks to the businesses for their large orders of steaks and burgers. And thanks to everyone’s efforts, over $12,000 is going to Adam for his long recovery.

Breeding Composite Seedstock

Part 2: Breeding the Formed Composite

Source:

By

Rick Bourdon,

Colorado State University for American Simmental Association

In part one of this series, I pointed out that composite breeding differs from purebred breeding because in composite breeding we are interested not only in improving breeding value through selection, but also in maintaining a high level of hybrid vigor. I discussed this difference in the context of forming a new composite breed. In this article, I examine the same thing, but this time in the context of breeding the formed composite.

Improving Breeding Value Through Selection

Once a composite breed has been assembled, breeding composite animals is much like breeding purebreds. The principal objective is to improve breeding value through within-breed selection. The tools are the same: pedigree and performance records, EPD, visual appraisal for soundness and (possibly) color uniformity, etc. Selection of composites differs from purebred selection only with regard to certain constraints needed to maintain hybrid vigor within the composite population.

Maintaining Hybrid Vigor

In purebred breeding, we usually do not concern ourselves much with hybrid vigor. Because purebreds are likely to be crossed with cattle of other breeds at

the commercial level, hybrid vigor within purebred populations is not a major priority. Composites, on the other hand, are designed to be used commercially without crossbreeding. Any loss of hybrid vigor among seedstock composites can therefore mean a loss of hybrid vigor at the commercial level. The key to maintaining hybrid vigor within composite seedstock populations is to avoid inbreeding. Following is a list of ways to do that.

Have a large herd. The rate of inbreeding is much faster in small populations than in large ones. If you have created your own composite breed and keep the herd closed (no animals from outside the herd allowed in), it is important that your herd be large enough that inbreeding accumulates very slowly. How large is large enough? That depends upon the rate of inbreeding you are willing to accept. I suggest a minimum of 500 cows.

Cooperate with other breeders. Your herd may be small, but if you work with other seedstock producers by exchanging semen, bulls, or females, the “effective” size of the composite population can be kept large. Cooperative arrangements of this sort essentially replicate the structure of pure breeds.

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Because breeding composite seedstock places emphasis on superior groups of animals rather than superior individuals, the basic misconception about lack of uniformity will require educational effort.

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Avoid linebreeding. Linebreeding, the mating of individuals within a particular line or strain, is a timehonored practice in purebred breeding. Purebred breeders do not hesitate to make half-brother–halfsister matings or build pedigrees laced with sons and daughters of a particular bull. However, if certain lines become prominent within a composite population, inbreeding occurs much more rapidly.

Avoiding linebreeding basically means not overusing any one sire or line of sires. This is a departure from purebred breeding where entire breeding programs have been built around one outstanding animal. Compared to purebred breeding, composite breeding places less emphasis on selecting superior individuals and more emphasis on selecting better groups of animals.

It is possible for a number of prominent lines to be developed within a composite breed and then for commercial breeders to avoid inbreeding within their commercial composites by judiciously choosing sires from the various lines. The problem with this idea is that it misses the main point of the commercial composite breeding system: simplicity. If commercial producers must keep bulls from one composite line separate from bulls from another line, then, from a management perspective, we are back to rotational crossbreeding and the headaches associated with it.

There is a perception among some breeders that selection should be avoided in a formed composite because it leads to inbreeding, presumably through linebreeding (I cannot think of any other mechanism). Indeed, it is true that intense selection among purebreds has in some cases resulted in linebreeding. The highestperforming animals were often relatives, and selection of the best performers amounted to de facto linebreeding. This need not be the case, however. We can select better-performing animals and pay attention to the pedigree relationships of those animals at the same time. Selection within a composite breed is important just as selection is important within a pure breed.

Reconstitute the composite from time to time. One nice thing about inbreeding is that it can be “undone.” As soon as inbreds are mated to unrelated animals, the offspring are no longer inbred. In a composite context, inbreeding can be undone by adding to the composite population new first-generation composites, particularly animals whose purebred parents or grandparents are relatively unrelated to the purebreds that formed the foundation for the original composite population. I like to call this “reconstituting” the composite. Reconstitution can be a pain, but it is the best solution for a composite population that is nearing the point of too much inbreeding.

Continued on page 48

Problems (opportunities) in marketing composite seedstock

Composite cattle are new to most producers, and like any new product, they will take some selling before they are widely accepted. Marketing composite cattle presents some real challenges and some real opportunities for those who can meet the challenges.

Name recognition. If you say you raise Angus cattle, most everybody in the cattle world will know what you are talking about. If you say you raise “Range Cruisers,” however, you are likely to get some funny looks. Name recognition is very important to marketing, and for this reason, we want a new composite breed to receive broad exposure as quickly as possible. This may be difficult, especially for newly formed composites developed by a single breeder.

Accuracy of genetic predictions. To be competitive with purebreds, composite seedstock should come with a similar level of genetic information on individuals. They should have EPD and accuracies for the more important traits. At the moment, few do, partly because many composite breeds are small and unorganized, and partly because the multi-breed/hybrid nature of composites confuses the issue from a technical standpoint. The technology for composite EPD production is available.

Lacking are mechanisms for accumulating data and for tying composite data to existing purebred databases. These problems can and will be solved if purebred organizations cooperate.

Considering the need for large population size in order to avoid inbreeding, the need for name recognition, and the need for performance comparisons and EPD, a strong case can be made for composite breed organizations. Such groups could be similar to purebred associations in terms of data handling and promotional responsibilities. In fact, they might even be offshoots or subsidiaries of purebred associations.

Famous sires. Purebred breeders often promote their cattle by emphasizing the merits of individual sires they have bred, purchased, or otherwise used. Great importance is placed on a relatively few famous individuals.

In composite populations, dependence on a few heavily promoted sires leads to inbreeding. Only in the largest composite breeds, where there are many seedstock breeders and a broad source of germplasm, will breeders be able to market semen from famous bulls in the same way that purebred breeders do and still avoid significant inbreeding. For most composite breeds, the best strategy may be to promote breeding programs rather than individual animals.

Perceptions about uniformity. Even if composite seedstock breeders pay special attention to uniformity, particularly color uniformity, during formation of the composite or afterward, the common misconception that composites lack uniformity is likely to persist at least for a while. Confronting the basic myth about hybrids and variability will take a concentrated educational effort.

Breeding composite cattle will not be easy. Not only are the genetic aspects of composite formation and production daunting, there are likely to be organizational, educational, and political difficulties as well. I doubt that fortunes will be made overnight. Still, composite breeding is probably the ultimate challenge for a seedstock producer.

Dr. Rick Bourdon taught at Colorado State University’s Department of Animal Sciences, first as an assistant professor and later an associate professor, for 15 years. His work focused on beef cattle breeding, genetics, and more. Bourdon also served as the Executive Director for the Red Angus Association of America. He has authored or coauthored over 200 professional and popular press articles, book chapters, and abstracts on topics related to beef cattle breeding and genetics.

USMEF Statement on Tentative Agreement on West Coast Port Labor Contract

Source: USMEF

On June 14, 2023, the Pacific Maritime Association (PMA) and the International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU) announced a tentative agreement on a six-year contract. The agreement, which covers all of the West Coast ports, must still be ratified by both sides.

A joint statement by PMA and ILWU notes the agreement was reached with assistance from Acting Secretary of Labor Julie Su.

U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF) President and CEO Dan Halstrom issued this statement:

This is tremendous news for U.S. red meat exporters and their overseas customers. While the ratification process will take some time, the tentative agreement will restore stability and confidence in the performance of the West Coast ports, and this is absolutely essential for our industry. USMEF thanks the parties for their flexibililty and Acting Labor Secretary Julie Su for making this matter a top priority.

Per Capita Red Meat and Poultry Disappearance Forecast Lower in 2024

Source: USDA, Economic Research Service

Per capita red meat and poultry disappearance—often used as a proxy for consumption—is forecast to fall 1% in 2024. This is mainly the result of an 8% decline in per capita disappearance of beef. The main component of disappearance is domestic production, though net trade and stocks are also factors in disappearance. Beef production is forecast to decrease more than 8% as U.S. cattle supplies tighten. A very slight decrease in pork production, combined with higher expected exports, results in a very small decrease in forecast per capita disappearance. Broiler and turkey production are forecast to increase by 2% and 5%, respectively. Per capita disappearance of both broilers and turkey is forecast to increase in 2024, though not enough to offset the decrease of beef and pork disappearance.

Beef/Cattle: Beef production is raised slightly in 2023 to 27.1 billion pounds on recent slaughter data and a faster pace of marketings expected later in the year. Higher anticipated feeder cattle placements in thirdquarter 2023 are expected to raise fed cattle marketings in early 2024, which minimally raises the beef

production forecast next year to 24.8 billion pounds. The 2023 and 2024 cattle price forecasts are raised on firm demand. The 2023 and 2024 trade projections are unchanged from last month.

Lamb/Sheep: No changes were made to production and import forecasts from the previous reports. Lamb price forecasts for the rest of 2023 and 2024 are higher than those in the last issue due to higher-than-expected lamb prices in April and May.

Dairy: For 2023, milk production is forecast lower than last month on slower growth in yield per cow. The milk production forecast for 2024 remains unchanged from last month. The all-milk price forecast for 2023 is $19.95 per hundredweight (cwt), $0.55 lower than last month’s forecast. The all-milk price forecast for 2024 is $19.65 per cwt, $0.25 lower than last month’s forecast. For 2023, wholesale price forecasts for cheddar cheese and dry whey are adjusted down, while prices for butter and nonfat dry milk are adjusted higher. As a result, the Class III milk price is adjusted lower, while the Class IV milk price is adjusted higher from the previous month’s forecast. For 2024, wholesale price forecasts for cheddar cheese and dry whey are reduced, while the price for nonfat dry milk is raised; the butter price forecast is unchanged. With lower forecasts for cheese and whey, the Class III price is lowered while the higher NDM price supports an increase in the Class IV price.

Grant County Feeders - Ulysses, Kansas

Grant County Feeders is the only feedyard with its own supplement plant. The Grant County Feeders supplement plant produces nutritional supplements for the five southern Five Rivers feedyards, delivering more than 135 tons per day.

Cattle Capacity: • 98,000 head

Feedlot Space:

• Feedyard Area: 800 acres • Irrigated/Dryland: 1,440 acres

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Pork/Hogs: Second-quarter pork production is adjusted downward by 5 million pounds to 6.635 billion pounds on expectations of lower average dressed weights. Second-quarter hog prices are raised $1 to $57 per cwt, almost 25% below prices a year ago. U.S. pork exports are increased 300 million pounds to 6.8 billion pounds, more than 7% higher than shipments in 2022, on Europe’s loss of competitiveness due to higher energy and grain costs. Exports in 2024 are raised 500 million pounds to 6.82 billion pounds, fractionally higher than the 2023 forecast.

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Improving Pasture Conditions Bolster Feeder Calf Demand

Data from the U.S. Drought Monitor on June 6, 2023, showed that about 22% of the United States was experiencing drought, but 40% of the U.S. beef herd remains under drought conditions. Although these conditions have improved since early May for many producers in the Great Plains, pasture conditions in the Midwest have declined.

With generally improving pastures and lower expected feed costs this year, the demand for feeder calves is well supported. This demand is likely reflected in higher year-over-year cumulative feeder and stocker receipts in April and May published by the USDA, Agricultural Marketing Service in the weekly report National Feeder and Stocker Cattle Summary. This growth in receipts comes despite the smaller year-over-year supply of cattle and calves on April 1 that were available for placement in feedlots or within stocker operations. As the chart below shows, on April 1, 2023, supplies of cattle available for placement were 18.8 million head—down 465,000 head, or 2.4%, from last year.

Based on the latest Cattle on Feed report, published by USDA, National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS), feedlot net placements2 in April were 4% lower year over

year at 1.697 million head. The decline was lower than expected, which supported an increase in the forecast for second-quarter 2023 placements, reflecting both an expectation of a greater proportion of the feeder cattle outside feedlots to be placed and the earlier placement of some calves that might have been placed during third-quarter 2023. This increase in placements raises expected marketings later this year and into early 2024.

Beef Production Raised on Slaughter and Placement Data

Higher expected fed cattle marketings and cow and bull slaughter, as well as higher expected carcass weights in the second and third quarters, raise the outlook for 2023 beef production from last month by 165 million pounds to 27.1 billion pounds. Specifically, the forecast for second-quarter 2023 beef production is updated on reported slaughter counts and carcass weights through early June. The third-quarter 2023 production forecast is raised on a faster-expected pace of cow slaughter and on higher expected average carcass weights. In the fourth quarter, the production outlook is raised from last month as more fed cattle are expected to be marketed based on higher expected second-quarter placements.

Continued on page 54

Beef production for 2024 is projected higher than last month by 50 million pounds to 24.8 billion pounds. This is based on an increase in expected marketings in early 2024 as feedlots aggressively market cattle placed in the second half of 2023.

Cattle Prices Continue To Climb

The ongoing story of tight cattle supplies combined with improving pasture conditions and lower year-over-year feed costs continues to push feeder cattle prices higher. Demand for limited supplies of feeder cattle remains strong. Feedlots are looking to fill their feedyards to take advantage of lower feed costs and the prospects for higher fed cattle prices, while recent rains have improved the drought situation in a few areas, likely creating some demand for cattle to go on grass. In May,

the weighted-average price for feeder steers weighing 750–800 pounds at the Oklahoma City National Stockyards was $205.53 per cwt. This was a $7 increase from April and nearly $52 higher than May 2022. In the first week of June, prices jumped $20 from two weeks prior to $228.98 per cwt. For reference, the highest recorded weekly price for feeder steers was $243.58 per cwt in October 2014. Accounting for the recent strength in prices and improved opportunities to put calves on pasture, the second-quarter forecast price for feeder steers is raised $5 to $209 per cwt. The third quarter is raised $10 to $224 per cwt, and fourth quarter is raised $6 to $226 per cwt. The 2024 forecast is raised $6 to $227 per cwt.

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The steer and heifer slaughter pace typically picks up in the summer months as peak grilling season gets underway. Packing plants must compete for a smaller supply of slaughter-ready cattle to fill their schedules. Fed cattle prices in the 5-area marketing region3 hit a new record for the week ending June 4 of $182.03 per cwt. The average price for May was $175.45, about $2 less than the record monthly price in April 2023 but $34 higher year over year. Based on recent data, the secondquarter 2023 fed steer price forecast is raised $7 to $179 per cwt. The third quarter is raised $9 to $173, and the fourth quarter is raised $5 to $174 per cwt. The forecast for 2024 is raised $8 to $180 per cwt.

Continued on page 56

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Beef Trade Forecasts Unchanged From Last Month

Beef exports in April were 268 million pounds, 12% lower year over year and just 1% higher than the 5-year average. Monthly exports to South Korea and Mexico were up 8% and 6%, respectively, and exports to Hong Kong were nearly 60% higher year over year. However, these increases were more than offset by decreases in exports to Japan (-27%), Taiwan (-25%), China (-10%), and Canada (-7%).

U.S. year-to-date exports to nearly every major country are down except Mexico. Although down 11% year over year, South Korea has moved up to the top export destination for U.S. beef so far this year, while Japan remains a close second. Year-to-date exports to China are down 13% year over year but up 29% from the same period in 2021. The export forecasts are unchanged from last month, with 2023 at 3.224 billion pounds and 2024 at 2.950 billion pounds.

Beef imports in April were 295 million pounds, less than 1% higher year over year. Higher imports from Australia and New Zealand offset lower shipments from Mexico, Brazil, and Canada. Imports from Australia were nearly 44 million pounds for April, the largest shipment since November 2020. Year-to-date imports from Australia are up 19% year over year, increasing its share by 2% over this time last year. The import forecasts for 2023 and 2024 are unchanged from last month at 3.501 and 3.560 billion pounds, respectively.

USMEF Conference Highlights

Source: USMEF

The U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF) Spring Conference concluded Friday, May 26, 2023, in Minneapolis with insights from former House Agriculture Committee Chairman Collin Peterson on how to make international trade a higher priority in the next Farm Bill.

Peterson, who oversaw the development of four Farm Bills during his 30 years in Congress, said trade has too often taken a back seat in Farm Bill debate and messaging.

“For those of you that have members of Congress in your area who are on the Ag Committee, start talking to them about trade,” Peterson said. “I used to meet with everyone from my district who came to discuss the Farm Bill. They would talk about crop insurance, Title One, conservation and rural development. And at the end of the meeting they would say, ‘Oh by the way, we have to do something about trade.’ It should be the first thing you talk to them about, not the last thing. That way you can get some people to the table who will put trade at the top of the agenda, not the bottom, and that’s what needs to happen.”

With the current Farm Bill set to expire Sept. 30, Peterson said a one-year extension is likely. But he noted that if work requirements for those receiving nutrition assistance are included in negotiations on raising the debt ceiling, this could help accelerate the Farm Bill debate.

“And I think if that gets handled in the debt ceiling, however they handle it, and people get a chance to vote on it, that’s probably the most important thing that could happen to help get the Farm Bill passed,” he explained.

Peterson also emphasized the importance of animal health programs and foreign animal disease prevention, because outbreaks can have a devastating impact on trade.

“This is one of the most important issues we need to focus on,” he said. “When I worry about trade, I worry about this stuff coming back to bite us.”

On Thursday, USMEF members received an update on U.S.-Mexico trade relations from Kenneth Smith Ramos, the former chief NAFTA negotiator for Mexico who played a key role in development and ratification of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Now an international trade consultant, Smith detailed the critical importance of this trade relationship for both countries’ agricultural sectors.

“When the original NAFTA was negotiated there was a lot of nervousness, especially in Mexico, because of the full opening of agricultural trade for the first time,” he said. “But you fast-forward to where we are now, over half of what we export to the United States is in the area of fruits and vegetables, which we can grow year-round and that satisfies demand in the United States. Mexico imports grain, oilseeds and meat products from the U.S., taking advantage of the comparative and competitive advantages in both countries, and that is what has helped grow the overall agricultural trade pie over the years.”

Smith noted that while U.S. meat products already had duty-free access to Mexico under NAFTA, the development and passage of USMCA accomplished more than just maintaining the status quo.

“We were able to modernize the agreement with 12 new chapters that include disciplines that did not exist in 1992, or that needed to be adapted to today’s needs and the world economy,” he said. “In the sanitary and phytosanitary chapter, for example, there is a stronger emphasis on transparency and on science-based risk assessment. We were also able to eliminate proposals that looked to manage trade and do away with the complete opening of trade between our nations.”

Smith said that while agricultural goods generally flow smoothly between the U.S. and Mexico, the U.S. meat industry must be mindful of contentious issues – both agricultural and non-agricultural – that could disrupt trade. He also called on USMEF members to spread the message about the critical role of free trade in bolstering food security in the region.

Thursday’s agenda also included meetings of USMEF’s standing committees, which focus on issues specific to the organization’s pork, beef, exporter and feedgrains

Kay Francis Vandiver

Kay Frances (Pigg) Vandiver, 87, of Richmond, beloved wife, mother and grandmother, passed into the loving arms of the Lord on Wednesday, June 14, 2023, at Oak Ridge Assisted Living in Richmond.

A visitation was held from 5-8 p.m. on Sunday, June 18, at the Richmond United Methodist Church. Funeral services were on Monday, June 19 at 10:30 a.m., also at the United Methodist Church, followed immediately by graveside burial at South Point Cemetery on Bruns Road in Orrick.

Kay was born on November 15, 1935, in Kansas City to Fon and Jewell Pigg, who preceded her in death. A proud and lifelong resident of Ray County, she grew up in Orrick and graduated from Orrick High School in 1954. She married Bob Vandiver in Orrick on January 14, 1956, enjoying 57 years of marriage until Bob’s death in 2013. From their union, Kay and Bob had four children, nine grandchildren and five greatgrandchildren.

She is survived by a son, Dale Vandiver of Richmond; his children Blaire (Vandiver) Lawrence of Leawood, Kansas, and her husband Matt; Jake Vandiver of Richmond, and his wife Reanna (Newham) Vandiver; and Gabe Vandiver of Kansas City; a daughter, Sara (Vandiver) Fougere of Columbia, her husband John and sons Drew, Grant and Luke Fougere; and a son, Gary Vandiver, of Richmond, his wife Penny (Holloway) Vandiver, their children Ashton, Abby and Evan Vandiver; and five great-grandchildren.

In addition to her parents and husband, Kay was predeceased by her oldest son, Jim Bob Vandiver, in 1965, and her daughter-in-law, Kim (Rogers) Vandiver.

Kay lived the life of a quintessential American farm wife, mother, grandmother and homemaker, serving as the bookkeeper for the Bob Vandiver Cattle Company for decades while the operation became one of the most successful in the Midwest. Kay and Bob were true partners in the cattle and farm operation. Her skills as a cook were legendary, and she was known to prepare delicious meals to take to the field during silage season, feeding sometimes as many as 20 farm employees from the back of her car. Dedicated to the farm way of life, she served on numerous agricultural boards and committees, most notably the Missouri Cattlewomen’s Association and Farm Bureau. Many of her lifelong friends came from the many agriculture committees she served on, and she took great pride in playing the instrumental role in raising the funds

for the new headquarters of the Missouri Cattlemen and Cattlewomen’s Association in Columbia. For her lifelong dedication, Kay was awarded the Missouri CattleWoman of the Year in 2003.

A strong leader among women who was deeply invested in our American democracy, Kay was active in Democratic Party politics her entire life, tirelessly volunteering on local, state and national campaigns. She was particularly proud of her service to, and friendship with, the late U.S. Congressmen Jerry Litton and Ike Skelton. She loved to follow the news and was always up for an engaging discussion of current events. She was a member of the Richmond United Methodist Church and an avid sports fan, whether it was the Kansas City Chiefs or Richmond High School Spartans.

But what Kay was most passionate about was her family, especially her beloved grandchildren and greatgrandchildren. Her years were filled with the joy of welcoming her growing family to the Vandiver farm for holidays and Sunday dinners, where she would express her love through her incredible cooking, laughter and warmth. The most cherished memories of youth for her adoring grandchildren will always be those long-awaited visits to the farm and their beloved Grammy.

Donations to honor Kay’s memory may be sent to the Richmond Education Endowment Foundation. Memorials can always be left at or mailed to Thurman Funeral Home 507 East Main St./P.O. Box 190 Richmond, MO 64085. Please remember to share your memories of Kay with the family by visiting www. thurmanfuneralhome.com.

Buffalo Livestock Market

1 mile west on Hwy 32 • Buffalo, MO 65622 Barn: 417-345-8122

Sale Every Saturday 12:00 Noon

• Selling 1200 to 1700 head Farm Fresh Cattle weekly

• Special Stock Cow and Bull Sale

3rd Tuesday night of each month at 6:30 p.m.

• Pre-Vac Feeder Calf Sales 2nd Saturday of every month in conjunction with Regular Sale (Pfizer Pre-Vac, BLM BPre-Vac, Bayer Program, Mo Quality Assurance. LMA-Vac and MFA Health Track)

Order Buying Service Available

Owners… Lyle Caselman Leon Caselman 417-345-7876 H 417-345-4514 H 417-533-2944 cell 417-588-6185 cell

Register Now for Feeding Quality Forum

Source: Certified Angus Beef

Consumer demand signals spur progress in the cattle business, but producers must be proactive when making changes in their marketing strategy.

Join cattle feeders, cow-calf producers and industry professionals for the latest trends, hot topics and key solutions at the 18th annual Feeding Quality Forum (FQF), hosted by Certified Angus Beef (CAB). The event will be at the Graduate Lincoln hotel in Lincoln, Nebraska, on Aug. 22 and 23, 2023.

“Feeding Quality Forum presents experts on relevant topics for progressive cattlemen from the ranch to the feedyard,” said Bruce Cobb, CAB executive vice president of production. “If your goal is to raise the best fed cattle in the market, then this event brings together solution-oriented producers and industry professionals to do so.”

Speakers will bring forward practical solutions and beef demand insights for all attendees to apply when they get home to their operation.

Register at FeedingQualityForum.com. Registration costs $250. Student registration is $50.

What to Expect

This year will offer a morning tour for attendees to see how premium beef drives value through the entire supply chain. The pre-event session will visit Sysco Lincoln, a CAB-licensed distributor, to see the ins and outs of serving the foodservice sector of the supply chain. It has limited capacity for 45 attendees and costs $50 in addition to registration.

The main agenda begins at 1:00 p.m. and presenters will focus on the market, stewardship and beef grading. Tuesday’s speakers include:

• Dan Basse, AgResource Company, sharing a global market update.

• A panel featuring Hugh Aljoe, Noble Research Institute; Jesse Fulton, University of Nebraska Panhandle Research and Extension; and John Schroeder, Darr Feedlot, discussing stewardship practices.

• A panel discussion with T.J. and Tifini Olson, Round the Bend Steakhouse, and Lane Rosenberry, Sysco Lincoln, on how they leverage premium beef brands to create loyal customers.

The evening program will recognize the 2023 Industry Achievement Award recipient, Steve Hunt. Hunt’s vision and leadership at U.S. Premium Beef built a sustainable business model for cattlemen to target for greater financial rewards, benefitting the entire beef supply chain from rancher to consumer. He joins the ranks of such industry legends as Randy Blach, Paul Engler, Topper Thorpe, Lee Borck, Larry Corah, John Matsushima and Bob Smith, who have also been recognized for their contributions to the feeding industry.

Wednesday offers a half day of additional education starting with insights from the packer for the upcoming supply challenges. Other topics will highlight cattle health at the feedyard, demand drivers and tools to enhance quality.

• Glen Dolezal, Cargill Protein, will share the packer perspective for the current cattle market environment.

• Lily Edwards-Callaway, Ph.D., Colorado State University, and A.J. Tarpoff, Ph.D., Kansas State University, will go over survey results on heat stress in the feedyard.

• Nevil Speer, Turkey Track Consulting, will share trends and predictions for capturing more value for calves

• A panel of Performance Livestock Analytics customers moderated by Justin Sexten, Ph.D., Precision Animal Health group at Zoetis.

“We’re embracing the hard conversations to bring solutions to producers to help them navigate a business that’s always changing,” Cobb said. “We do that by bringing together a network of market-focused individuals, who hopefully continue the conversations when they get home.”

Find the full agenda and speaker bios at FeedingQualityForum.com.

Every Monday: Slaughter Cattle 12:00 p.m. Selling All Classes of Cattle 12:30 p.m.

1st Thursday Nite of Each Month: 6:00 p.m. Bred Cows and Breeding Bull Sale

Jack Harrison 573-999-7197 (owner)

John P Harrison ............... 573-220-1482

Claude Niemeyer 573-470-1017

Roger Temmen 573-680-4538

Justin Oberling .................. 217-440-7724

Glenn Stegman 573-619-8495

Steak Fry was a Success!

The 20th Annual Missouri Cattlemen’s Steak Fry was a success! The event is held in Sedalia each June and brings together hundreds of association members, legislators, and supporters from across the state.

Cooper and I particularly like this event. Our duties at this event align directly with our skill sets.

We have no real responsibilities other than to be present, visit with attendees, and do some quality-control testing of beer, wine, and steak.

We had an incredible turnout of House members, who were joined by Senators Rusty Black, Justin Brown, Sandy Crawford, and Denny Hoskins. Governor Mike Parson, Lt. Governor Mike Kehoe, Attorney General Andrew Bailey, and State Treasurer Vivek Malek also joined the festivities and took time to share comments with the crowd.

We truly appreciate the time our elected leaders dedicate to MCA and this event, specifically. With so many summer activities and pulls on their limited time, we cannot thank them sufficiently for traveling to mid-Missouri to spend an entire evening supporting their state’s cattle producers.

For those of you who haven’t been, I welcome you to join us next year. Aside from general camaraderie and providing an opportunity to connect association members with their respective legislators, the evening does provide a real service – a service critical to the role we play.

The primary goal of the Steak Fry is to celebrate former MCA presidents and raise money for MCA’s policy work. The past president’s pie auction, silent auction, and live auction raise funds for MCA’s political action committee that helps elect and retain Representatives and Senators who unwaveringly support and defend agriculture.

Your financial generosity makes a huge difference in election outcomes. Your contributions, whether small or large, are appreciated and do not go unnoticed. They can make the

difference between winning or losing a friend and supporter.

While I may be more of a social hour enthusiast, Cooper enjoys the pie auction. The amount of money the man will spend on an apple pie is unparalleled. This year he targeted Jimmie Long’s apple pie. I have no doubt that Linda Long can bake beautifully, but I’ve never seen a pie I’d buy for $1200. Not Cooper.

Truthfully, I’m glad Cooper gets excited and participates. I don’t mind kicking in my half of the expense, even if I never seem to get my half of the pie (he’s shady like that!). I support his purchase because I support MCA’s efforts. If we don’t support the right candidates, the wrong ones will win.

As best evidenced this session by defending our industry against false attacks and claims about a vaccine that doesn’t exist, if we don’t engage in the political process, others will. We cannot allow false narratives to become the norm. We cannot allow the wrong individuals to represent Missouri’s farm and ranch families.

There are not words sufficient to thank all those that make an event of this magnitude happen. MCA staff that coordinates, the many entities that donate, the cooks that cook, and the attendees that spend both time and money – we thank you.

See you at the State Fair next month, Nancy and Cooper

SALE CALENDAR

July 6 “T he Big Bang” Sale at Kansas Crossing Casino, Pittsburg, KS

July 10 Yearling Special Sale at JRS, Carthage, MO

Aug. 19 Seedstock Plus Online Showcase Sale

Aug. 25 5J Charolais and Tiger CountryVol. 2 of The Next Generation Sale, SC Online Sales.

Sept. 2 Four Starr Genetics Production Sale, Eugene, MO

Sept. 20 Valley Oaks Fall Embryo & Semen Sale, Online

Sept. 30 Soar ing Eagle of the Ozarks Invitational Sale, Springfield, MO

Sept. 30 Ter ry Little’s TL Angus Sale, Monticello, MO

Oct. 6 Birk Genetics Sale, Jackson, MO

Oct. 7 Soar ing Eagle of the Ozarks Bull Sale, Springfield, MO

Oct. 13 Smith Valley Angus Sale, Salem, MO

Oct. 14 East Central Missouri Angus Ass’n Sale, Cuba, MO

Oct. 15 Frank/Hazelrigg Cattle Co. Sale, Fulton, MO

Oct. 16 Hinkle’s Prime Cut Angus Sale, Nevada, MO

Oct. 21 Gerloff Farms Bull Fest, Bland, MO

Oct. 21 Seedstock Plus Fall Bull & Female Sale, Car thage, MO

Oct. 22 MO Angus A ss’n Ladies of Autumn Sale, Lebanon, MO

Oct. 23 Buck Ridge Cattle Bull Sale, Seymour, MO

Oct. 27 McBride Angus Complete Dispersion Sale, Cent ralia, MO

Oct. 28 Lac y’s Red Angus & MC Livestock Bull and Female Sale, Drexel, MO

Oct. 28 Mead Farms Sale, Versailles, MO

Nov. 3-4 GenePlus Bull & Female Sale at Chimney Rock, Concord, AR

Nov. 4 Wor thington Angus Bull & Commercial Female Sale, Dadeville, MO

Nov. 4 Seedstock Plus Red Reward Fall Bull & Female Sale, Osceola, MO

Nov. 8 2S Angus Sale, Seneca, MO

Nov. 9 Valley View Angus Female Sale, Nelson, MO

Nov. 11 Valley Oaks Female Sale, Warsaw, MO

Nov. 18 Sydenstricker Genetics Sale, Mexico, MO

Nov. 24 Wall Street Cattle Co., Lebanon, MO

Nov. 25 Gala xy Beef Sale, Macon, MO

New Leadership Named in Red Angus Communications

Source: Red Angus Association of America

DENVER — The Red Angus Association of America has announced two internal promotions within its communications department. Lisa Bryant, Ada, Oklahoma, has been named RAAA director of communications while Katie Martin, Torrington, Wyoming, has transitioned into the role of assistant director of communications.

“Katie brings deep knowledge of the breed and cattle industry, along with solid writing and presentation skills to the Red Angus communications department that will complement Lisa’s extensive communications experience,” said Tom Brink, RAAA CEO.

Bryant, whose farming and ranching roots trace at least seven generations deep, brings a wealth of marketing and communications experience to the team. She has owned Cowboy Connection Designs & Communications, a full-service agency specializing in the agriculture industry for 24 years. She has worked with more than 140 clients including several breed associations, industry checkoffs, ag groups and individual ranches. Bryant has been a part-time contractor with RAAA for two years.

The Oklahoma State University animal science and ag communications graduate has been actively involved in the Livestock Publications Council and the OSU Animal Science Alumni Association, serving both organizations as president and director. Bryant lives on her family farm in south central Oklahoma where she helps manage a diversified operation consisting of commercial cow-calf and Boer goat herds, pecans, hay and a retail pecan farm store.

Martin transitioned into the new position in communications from seven years of experience with RAAA. An integral member of the RAAA commercial marketing team since 2016, Martin most recently

served as the assistant director of field services. She played a key role in the growth of RAAA’s value-added programs, and developed RAAA’s bull and female price database, which is second to none in the beef industry.

Martin resides in Torrington, Wyoming, with her husband, Devin, and infant daughter, Winona. She is actively involved in her community and enjoys spending time on her family’s ranch.

“I have thoroughly enjoyed my tenure on the commercial marketing team, particularly getting to know Red Angus producers as I have traveled. I look forward to continuing to serve the membership in this new capacity,” said Martin.

Former Director of Communications Brandi Buzzard Frobose has transitioned into a part-time contractor role for RAAA. She will continue to be the editor of the Red Angus Magazine and manage Red Angus social media.

For more information about the Red Angus Association of America or marketing programs for Red Angusinfluenced cattle, visit RedAngus.org.

MBC Classified

The MBC Classified column appears monthly. Classified advertising is only 50¢ per word. Send your check with your ad to Missouri Beef Cattleman, P.O. Box 480977, Kansas City, MO 64148. Deadline 15th of month before an issue.

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