January 2023 - Missouri Beef Cattleman

DEPARTMENTS

Volume 52 - Issue 1 (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

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

Missouri’s Cattlemen Foundation

www.mocattlemenfoundation.org

Missouri’s CattleWomen

http://mocattle.com/missouricattlewomen.aspx

2022 MCA Officers

Bruce Mershon, President

816-289-3765 • 31107 Lake City Buckner Rd., Buckner, MO 64016

David Dick, President-Elect

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

Chuck Miller, Vice President

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

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 (Officers will be updated in February issue - after the MCA Convention.)

2022 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: Jeff Reed, PO Box 35

Williamsville, MO 63967 • 903-279-8360

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

Steve Lovell, Centertown, MO

Maggie Martinez, Naperville, IL

Mathias Ranch, Gentry, AR

Hailie Maynaep, Marionville, MO

Brad Mclaughlin, Madsen Cattle, Odessa, MO

Loretta & Robert Meredith, Bolivar, MO

Tony Merkel, Forked Bend Farm, Ellsinore, MO

David Mershon, Buckner, MO

Sherie Neuner, Lexington, MO

Cameon Ohmes, De Soto, KS

Joseph Ohmes, De Soto, KS

Phil Peak, Peak Farms, Wellsville, MO

Readon Perryman, Conway, MO

Wyatt Pohlman, Oak Ridge, MO

Gabrielle Rohrbach, California, MO

Eric Roller, Rocky Comfort, MO

Kanin Rook, Verona, MO

Scarlett Sanders, Marshfield, MO

Cole Schuster, Boonville, MO

Anna Sheets, Falcon, MO

Blake Shelton, Conway, MO

Scott Steele, Steele’s Fine Custom Meats, Jefferson City, MO

Jared Stubblefield, Lonedoll, MO

Maisie Totten, Marshfield, MO

Bryan Turner, Warrensburg, MO

John Turner, Washburn, MO

Allie Tyndall, Ironton, MO

Kayla Ward, Marshfield, MO

Bruce & Billye Williams, West Plains, MO

Keith Wingard, Wingard Farms, Pleasant Hill, MO

President’s Perspective

with David Dick

Membership

Hello! I hope this finds you all healthy and well! As you read the column, my first, we as an association are either at our annual Missouri Cattlemen’s Convention or at home post-convention. This annual event serves as a venue for policy formation, education, selection, award recognition, fundraising, re-union and fun! All are part of making MCA relevant in today’s cattle business and addressing the issues that keep us productive and profitable.

When I joined MCA 41 years ago, I had no idea of the scope and magnitude of the adventure that awaited me, all made available to me through belonging — membership. The experience, knowledge and camaraderie of what was to become my MCA family has been absolutely worth the price of admission — membership. When I joined at the age of 19 it was at the urging of my grandfather and my 4-H leader. Both gentlemen made certain I understood and reminded me that I needed to belong to the organizations that “sought to keep me in business and keep me profitable.”

So when Pettis County organized that December 7 in Hughesville, Missouri, I was present, paid my dues and became an MCA member right then and there!

It was amazing to me that I could become a member of such a large group — 400 present that night — let alone a gathering of individuals I considered my peers. That began my journey with an association that afforded me many educational opportunities, as well as others which included political awareness. Coupled with a lot of life lessons, it has been nothing short of awesome! All for the price of membership.

When I joined all those years ago, I had no great plan of becoming Missouri Cattlemen’s Association President. My motivation was primarily to become part

MCA President

of something larger with the idea that my membership would, educate me as well as keep me in business, whether through marketing knowledge or political action.

As we move forward in the new year, we must maintain our vigilance and attentiveness to issues. The election cycle is behind us, so now we turn our attention to the upcoming legislative session. The monitoring of filed bills is one of the things we do as an association, and one of our best tools is Cowboys at the Capitol. Our team of Nancy and Shannon will keep us informed and coupled with “our” help — Cowboys at the Capitol — our presence will be felt in an enlightening and educational way. Please be aware of when your region is at the Capitol, take the time and go to Jefferson City and make your voice heard in the halls of Capitol. This is something that, while it takes some time, proves to be immeasurably valuable.

In closing, I hope to see you somewhere along this path! I will certainly need your help to make MCA the best it can be!

P.S. Some of you will notice that I mentioned membership several times. We must always be active in asking people to join our association and become part of something larger. Please ask your neighbor or a friend to join today!

Straight Talk

with Mike Deering

Another January

The Christmas holiday is behind us. A new year is underway. It’s another January – the beginning of many things.

We are about to see nearly 1,000 people at the 55th Annual Missouri Cattle Industry Convention & Trade Show. Our goal is to provide the best experience we possibly can for all attendees. We facilitate discussions. We provide the agenda. Then we get the hell out of the way. This is where “grassroots” is more than a buzzword. This is where it truly comes to life and anyone who is a member can engage in the development of policies and help chart the course for the coming year. This is where we cuss and discuss ideas. Debates can be lively, but we leave the convention united and prepared to deliver on the priorities established by MCA members.

The policy development process is essential. We must craft policy that helps advance the beef cattle industry in the state and helps create a regulatory and legislative environment that is conducive to growth. This process starts with the MCA Policy and Legislative Affairs Committee and advances to the annual convention for further discussion and review prior to a final vote of the full membership at the annual meeting.

It is important our leadership leaves convention with a clear picture of our legislative agenda for the coming year as the Missouri General Assembly convened January 4 and will conclude May 13, 2023. Many people dread January because that’s when the hallways of our Capitol fill up with legislators and lobbyists. What they don’t dread is when “real” people convene to make their voices heard. You can ask any elected

Executive Vice President

leader of either political party if they look forward to the sound of clicking bootheels or the flood of hats they see every Wednesday of legislative session and they will undoubtedly tell you it is a highlight of their week.

January is also when the transition of leadership occurs for the association. Bruce Mershon served the association very well as president this past year. He is a fighter with an undeniable passion for this industry. He now turns the reins over to David Dick from Sedalia. David is no stranger to the association and has been active at the state and national levels for over four decades. Chuck Miller will assume the role of presidentelect, and a new vice president will be elected at the annual convention. Attitude reflects leadership, and it is critical we elect individuals to leadership at the county and state levels who will truly be servants to the farm and ranch families who are members of this association.

It’s just another January, but it is also a new beginning. We learn from our mistakes. We build on our successes. We start fresh with a clear vision for our association and our industry. Thank you for investing in your farming operation by being a member of this association. We do not take your trust for granted. We encourage you to bring new members into this association in 2023 – we cannot do this alone.

What’s Cookin’ at the

Missouri Beef House

By Beef House Team

Challenge Accepted

When we receive a call from a former MCA employee, we answer and enjoy the opportunity to reconnect. This call granted us time to reminiscence, as well as a request to cater a wedding rehearsal with the special request for Beef House beef! The call was from a dear friend to the beef industry, Janna Sapp-Mahan. Many of you will remember Janna was MCA Director of Membership Services and Beef Quality Assurance Program Coordinator from 1991-2001. Since the event was going to be held in Sedalia at the Heritage Ranch Event Center, Janna couldn’t think of a better way to honor her mom, Janet Sapp, who worked for thirty-five years as our MCA Bookkeeper beginning in 1967 until her passing in 2002.

On a cold, windy Friday, November 11, the MCA Beef House crew planned, prepared, and served the Wedding Rehearsal for Janna’s son, Jameson, and his beautiful bride, Angel, to approximately 80 people at the Heritage Ranch Event Center on the outskirts of Sedalia, Missouri. The menu consisted of 5-ounce ribeye sandwiches, beef burgers, beef dogs, baked beans and brownies.

While it has been many years ago, Janna’s sons, Austin and Jameson, recalled many good memories of their time as young boys, whether it be at the MCA office or the Beef House. Mostly, they remember their grandmother, Janet, as being the institutional memory of our association.

A BIG thanks goes out to MCA volunteers Suetta Carter; Marvin and Carolyn Dieckman; and Pat and Patty Wood who graciously accepted the Beef House challenge to cook and serve this delicious meal.

Thought for the month: “Ring out the old; ring in the new. Ring happy bells, the beef’s in the stew. The year is going; let it go. Ring out the false; ring in the true. Happy New Year”

Mahan rehearsal dinner group.

Mahan rehearsal dinner cook crew.

Your BEEF CHECKOFF NEWS

Rules and Regulations

The Missouri Beef Industry Council (MBIC) is a nonprofit organization responsible for administering programs of promotion, education, research, and consumer and industry information. The MBIC is part of a coordinated state/national effort funded and controlled by beef producers who are assessed $1-perhead each time a beef animal is sold. Half of each dollar is forwarded to the Cattlemen’s Beef Promotion and Research Board (CBB) and the other half of the dollar is retained by the Missouri Beef Industry Council to fund state-based programs, which complement and extend the industry-wide effort.

MBIC is governed by a board of directors, which are selected as representatives for beef producers in each of the four regions across the state as well as groups such as the livestock markets, dairy producers, and Missouri Cattlemen’s Association. Each region elects two board members to serve alongside two members at-large and three appointed representatives, one each to represent the livestock market, dairy, and Missouri Cattlemen’s Association interests of the state. These board members are charged with the responsibility to allocate the Beef Checkoff dollars that are retained by Missouri for the purpose of driving beef demand and improving consumer trust in beef closer to home alongside national campaigns working to do the same across the US.

By law, all producers selling cattle or calves, are required to pay $1 per head to support promotion, education, and research projects. The buyer, generally, is responsible for collecting $1 per head from the seller, but both are responsible for seeing that the dollar is collected and paid. In Missouri, the collection and compliance of funds is overseen by the Missouri Department of Agriculture. More information about collection can be found in the bullet-points below.

• Whoever makes payment to the seller is considered a “Collection Point” or person and must withhold $1-per-head, remitting those funds to the Qualified State Beef Council (QSBC) where they live. Collection points could include auction markets, feedyards, dealers/order buyers, other producers, auctioneers, clerking services, banks, packers and other entities.

• The buyer is generally responsible for collecting $1 per head from the seller. By law, both buyer and seller are equally liable to see that $1-per-head has been collected and paid.

• Also under the Act and the Order, the State Beef Council is legally responsible for collecting monthly assessments as well as a two percent late charge on checkoff remittances if they are not received in our office postmarked by the 15th of the month following the month of sale.

• No producer is exempt from the checkoff. Buyers who resell cattle no more than 10 days from the date of purchase may file a non-producer status form and avoid paying an additional dollar. They are, however, responsible for remitting collected funds and reporting any transaction to the QSBC.

• Remember: A dollar or a document! All selling/ purchase transactions must be reported. In each case, either $1-per-head or non-producer status form document must be collected by the buyer from the seller to show the dollar has been collected and paid within the past 10 days.

• If it’s more convenient, the seller of cattle may collect and remit funds collected. For instance, purebred breeders selling to many different buyers may wish to remit the checkoff themselves; persons exporting cattle should also pay when the cattle change hands. Buyers should keep receipts showing the checkoff has been paid.

Photo credit: Cattlemen’s Beef Board and the Beef Checkoff

March Through NCBA Trade Show in the Crescent City

Source: NCBA

CENTENNIAL, Colo. (Dec. 5, 2022) – New Orleans has a lot of nicknames, including The Big Easy, Crescent City, NOLA and Paris of the South, but no matter what you call it, the Birthplace of Jazz will host the NCBA Trade Show as part of the 2023 Cattle Industry Convention. More than eight acres of exhibitors, displays and educational experiences will welcome attendees, February 1-3.

The NCBA Trade Show offers cattle producers opportunities to network, learn, shop, dine and connect with friends, both old and new. It is a solutions center featuring more than 350 exhibitors that can help producers with animal health products, equipment, irrigation technology, software, trailers and so much more. In addition to finding the right product or service to solve any problem, there are a variety of educational opportunities within the show.

New in 2023, Cattle Chats will feature 20-minute beef industry educational sessions, with special spotlight sessions focusing on sustainability. Attendees can also stop in the Learning Lounge to enjoy informal, face-toface talks in an intimate setting right on the trade show floor. Industry leaders will tackle topics such as ranch succession, effective probiotics, deworming protocols, animal welfare and tax trends.

The popular Stockmanship & Stewardship Demonstration Arena returns with stockmanship experts Dr. Ron Gill and Curt Pate providing low-stress cattle handling demonstrations, Beef Quality Assurance educational sessions, industry updates and facility design sessions. Interactive discussions will show how producers can shape consumer perceptions of beef and how the principles presented have significant economic and “quality of life” benefits when applied in a cattle enterprise.

The Chutes and Scales Showdown offers a side-by-side comparison of equipment where producers can watch cattle run through chutes then get hands-on experience. This is an opportunity to get up close and personal with some of the top manufacturers in the industry, learn about new technology on both manual and hydraulic chutes and find the right piece of equipment to fit your ranch needs.

The trade show experience continues each afternoon with food and fun. Wednesday’s welcome reception will celebrate 125 years of NCBA, Thursday’s Sippin’ in the Big Easy reception will feature Louisiana-inspired whiskey and foods, and Friday’s Pups & Suds Yappy Hour will help attendees wind down with some furry friends.

Recognized by Trade Show Executive magazine as one of the top 100 trade shows in the United States, the NCBA Trade Show is the largest of its kind for the cattle industry. A variety of registration options are available including trade show only and single day tickets, which include show access, lunch, receptions and educational activities. For more information and to register and reserve housing, visit convention.ncba.org.

NCBA Congratulates Alexis Taylor on Confirmation as USDA Under Secretary for Trade

Source: NCBA

WASHINGTON (December 21, 2022) – National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) Vice President of Government Affairs Ethan Lane released a statement following the confirmation of Alexis Taylor as Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs in the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA):

“NCBA congratulates Alexis Taylor on her confirmation as USDA Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs. We have worked closely with Ms. Taylor in her previous roles at USDA and on Capitol Hill, and she is a proven advocate for farmers and ranchers. We look forward to partnering with Ms. Taylor to open new markets to American beef and help U.S. cattle producers see even more benefit from trade.”

NCBA Thanks Biden Administration for Actions to Avoid Rail Disruptions

Source: NCBA

WASHINGTON (November 30, 2022) – The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) recognized the Biden Administration for taking quick action to avoid rail disruptions.

“On behalf of America’s cattle producers, we thank President Biden and Secretary Vilsack for their action to prevent a disruption in critical rail service across

the country. We are also pleased to see bipartisan leaders in Congress working together to address this issue and protect our supply chains,” said NCBA CEO Colin Woodall. “We urge Congress to quickly pass the tentative agreement, which enforces the Presidential Emergency Board’s recommendations from September and ensures reliable rail service moving forward.”

Cattle producers rely on rail service to transport essential feed, fuel and fertilizer.

COUNTY NEWS

Barton County

Barton County Cattlemen met December 6 at the Thiebaud Meeting Rooms in Lamar, Missouri.

President Brett Faubion opened the meeting with a prayer. A brisket dinner, prepared by Scott Nolting, was enjoyed. The sponsor for the meeting was Maneval Feed and Grain of Jasper, Missouri.

This meeting was an opportunity to find out how the Missouri Cattlemen’s Association determines what legislation is needed or needs to be supported. Several recent bills have benefited cattlemen and farmers in Missouri. MCA Regional Vice President and Executive Vice President Mike Deering discussed current legislation and various activities of the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association and the Missouri Cattlemen’s Association. Efforts of the association resulted in Missouri being the first state to pass legislation requiring clear labeling on plant-based products. For example, plant-based food cannot be

See What’s Happening in Your County

called “meat.” Seventeen states have now taken the same action. Another bill resulted in a law that, to be charged as liable for negligence, negligence must be proven.

Mike was recognized for his 10 years serving as Executive Vice President of the Missouri Cattlemen’s Association.

Brett closed the meeting with a prayer.

Our next meeting will be January 10, 2023, 7 p.m., Theibaud Meeting Room in Lamar, Missouri.

Barton County meeting.

Mike Deering at the Barton County meeting.

9770 W. State Hwy 266 • Springfield, MO 65802

Jim 417.827.0623

Joann 417.827.2756 clearwaterangus.com

Bulls & Females | Quality Angus Beef

October 14, 2023

Your Angus Needs!

March 17 Spring Sale

Registered Angus Cattle For Sale

Drew & Tasha Busch

10761 Maries Co. Rd. 424 • St. James, Mo 65559 Office 573-699-4085 • Cell 573-864-6896 BuschCattleCo2001@gmail.com

Our Next Sale is March 18, 2023

PO Box 280 • 3997 S Clark • Mexico, MO 65265

Ben Eggers • email: ben@sydgen.com

Barn: (573) 581-1225 • Cell: (573) 473-9202

Eddie Sydenstricker Bub Raithel Sydenstricker Nobbe John Deere Kyle Vukadin • Kyle Tate Office: (573) 581-5900 Kenneth Roberts

EddieL@SNPartners.com Blake McDonald

Thank you to all the buyers and bidders at our recent sale!

Doug & LaRee Frank 608-279-3172

Brent & Keri Hazelrigg 703-587-9959

Visit us online: FHCCbeef.com

Russell & Susan Coon 1318 Shelby 169, Bethel, MO 63434 660-284-6518 h • 660-341-2705 c ruscatsol@gmail.com

Larry Coon 1284 Shelby 169, Bethel, MO 63434 660-284-6473 h • 660-342-3889 c

St. Clair County Cattlemen

What better time than the heart of the holiday season to say thank you to all the local individuals and businesses that have helped the St. Clair County Cattlemen’s Association have a successful MO Beef Kids program!

St. Clair County Cattlemen’s Association started the MO Beef Kids as a county-wide program in the last six weeks of the 2018-19 school year. The first donation was a beef from Wheeler Livestock Auction. In June 2019, the St. Clair County Cattlemen held their MO Beef Kids Kick-Off Meeting, where they presented all four county schools with a banner to hang at their school and Wheeler Livestock Auction as the first donor. From there, the program grew to encompass 12 head donated in the 2019-20 school year, and down to 10 head planned for 2022-23 as schools are working to recover from COVID times. St. Clair County Cattlemen work to provide quality farm fresh beef to the following schools: Appleton City School District, Lakeland School District, Roscoe School District and Osceola School District. Lakeland School District and Osceola School District are OPAA schools, so OPAA pays the processing. Appleton City School District and Roscoe School District are self-paying districts that have chosen to participate on their own.

Each year at the beginning of calendar year, processing dates are set with Powell Meat Company for the next school year to ensure the county schools will be provided farm fresh beef on their trays. Starting in the 2020-21 school year, St. Clair County Cattlemen started reaching out to local businesses for extra funds to help sustain the program. Local businesses and individuals can donate any amount and the Cattlemen give them a MO Beef Kids donor sign to put in the business window/ yard. They also put articles thanking the business or individual on Facebook and in the local paper throughout the school year. For the 2022-23 school year, local cattlemen can sell a beef at the local sale barn and tell the sale barn to donate the funds to the St. Clair County Cattlemen MO Beef Kids program. Donations are how the program has been sustained for the last two school years.

St. Clair County Cattlemen’s Association has currently donated 33 head to date. The Cattlemen would like to shout out a BIG thank you to the following who have donated to the program:

2019 – Byron Wheeler, Paul Wheeler, Larry Shelby, Austin Shelby, Weston Shelby, Mike Nance, Josh Salmon, Eddie Meredith, Johnson Ranch, Howard Taber, Joe Shelby, Robert Salmon, Willie Davis,

Donnahue Farms, Don Payton, Phillip Johnston, and Raysha Tate.

2020 – Bill Creek, Community First Bank, Dull & Heany LLC, Gregg Smith Ford, Hawthorne Bank, Jim Falk Motors, John and Megan Swaters, Legacy Bank and Trust, Oakstar Bank, and Phillip and Carol Johnston

2021 - Community First Bank, Dull & Heany LLC, Gregg Smith Ford, Hawthorne Bank, Jim Falk Motors, Legacy Bank and Trust, Oakstar Bank, Stewart and Kiefer Real Estate, Phillip and Carol Johnston, Wheeler Livestock Auction, Jim and Stephanie Neuenschwander, and Eddie Meredith

2022 - Community First Bank, Dull & Heany LLC, Gregg Smith Ford, Hawthorne Bank, Jim Falk Motors, Legacy Bank and Trust, Oakstar Bank, Susan Hemenway, Mike McEwan (McEwan Lawn Service), Eddie Meredith, Dan and Shelby Wisner, Larry and Rhonda Shelby, Weston and Julie Shelby, Mike and Gwenny Nance, and Philip and Carol Johnston.

If you or your county are not involved in a MO Beef Kids program, St. Clair County Cattlemen would strongly suggest you seek out getting a quality program going in your county as promoting Missouri beef is to promote the very livelihood of every Missouri cattlemen!

School lunch tray.

Bates County

The December meeting was held December 6 at the Ballard Cafe with the meal being sponsored by Mallory Ag. Meeting was called to order at 8:10 p.m. by Austin. The Secretary’s Report was read and approved. The Treasurer’s Report was read and approved. Checking account stands at $16,958 with a few bills that have just come in yet to be paid.

The last cook at the Family Center brought in 400 dollars, leftover meat was sold to the Adrian Optimists, with the exception of the hamburgers that were kept for possible use at the after school program.

Next year’s Annual Meeting will be held October 14 at the Adrian Optimist building.

Austin and Brad submitted our application for the Excellence Awards for the state meeting in January.

We are still going to be helping with the Youth Advocacy Program, but a schedule has not been

presented. We explained to them that we couldn’t do it every month.

Austin brought up the possibility of donating an item to the state auction that is held each year at the state annual meeting. It was discussed that next year we could either purchase the FFA item that is at our annual meeting and donate it, or select a local FFA chapter to make something for us to donate. For this year, the executive team is to pick out an item and make sure it gets donated.

The meeting was adjourned at 8:30 p.m.

Contact: Mike Williams Higginsville, MO 816-797-5450 mwauctions@ctcis.net

South Central Cattlemen

The South Central Cattlemen met for their monthly meeting on December 6 at the Extension Office in West Plains. The guest speaker was Sydney Thummel from the Missouri Beef Industry Council. There were approximately 35 people present.

President Janet Crow opened the meeting with association updates. Minutes and financials were presented to the group and approved. Janet Crow encouraged the members to attend the state convention in January and the national CattleCon in February. A nomination committee was formed to make recommendations for next year’s officers. The committee includes Jenny Poor and Wayne Nichols. Secretary Elizabeth Picking spoke about the Extension Office’s AgrAbility program. The program “increases the likelihood that individuals with disabilities and their families engaged in agriculture become more successful.” Some of the free services provided include:

• Identifying disabilities and referring the farmer, rancher, or farm worker to the appropriate resources

• Assisting with recommendations regarding adaptive farm equipment, tools and machinery

• Educating individuals on how to modify farm operations, equipment, machinery and buildings

• Offering agricultural based education on prevention of secondary injury

• Offering training to help farmers with disabilities

• Coordinating peer support networks

Jenny Poor encouraged attendees to look into and sign up for Missouri Cattlemen’s Leadership College. She also informed the group on MO Beef Kids. Through the program and donations from producers, Willow Springs Schools were able to enjoy locally raised beef for a year. However, the school is now having to buy commodity

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

Sydney Thummel of MBIC then took the floor, introduced herself and told the group about her background. She also discussed what MBIC and the checkoff were doing for producers. She explained three ways our checkoff dollars were used to promote beef.

1. Consumer Promotion - MBIC had booths at various events, such as the Bass Pro Fitness Series, Missouri Farmers Care/Ag Education On The Move, St. Louis University’s Beef Day, etc. She also discussed the MO Beef Kids program.

2. Producer Education - Sydney discussed educational grants that producers can apply for. MBIC is revamping bidder cards at sale barns in Missouri. They are working towards scheduling in-person BQA workshops. She is also attending various trade shows and Cattlemen meetings promoting beef education

3. Research - MBIC is involved in the Federation of State Beef Councils research on beef and has three seats on the FSBC board.

President Janet Crow, closed the meeting.

All I have ever done is sell and trade trailers. Give me a call for your next trailer 800-897-9840 www.Jimsmotors.com Commodity

Sydney Thummel speaking about MBIC to the South Central Cattlemen. beef until a producer steps forward and donates a beef to the school.

Scott Cape, Owner of Jim’s Motors in Cuba, Missouri.

Trades Welcome

Polk County Cattlemen

To start out our holiday festivities for the month, we participated in the Bolivar Christmas Parade on December 3. We had two entries this year with the theme A Merry and Bright Christmas. The event was held at night so the bright, twinkling lights were on full display. The only thing brighter was the smiles on the faces as we handed out candy. We had 15 members present to help pass out the treats as we walked the parade route. Our very own Poco was there to wave to the onlookers and help spread the Christmas cheer.

We had our Annual Meeting/Christmas Celebration on December 8, at 6:30 p.m. Some hardworking elves decked the halls at the CMH Community Room in Bolivar. We took care of some business by approving the nominations for the 2023 Board of Directors. We viewed a video that told the story of all the memories we have made this past year. We have had some amazing opportunities and enjoyed supporting our friends and community along the way. Then we were served a delicious dinner of prime rib, loaded mashed potatoes, green beans, corn and rolls. We completed dinner with a wonderful dessert. To show appreciation to all our volunteers this year, we had a special drawing for prizes. Your name was entered each time you helped at an event. There were lots of lucky winners, and we just wanted a fun way to thank all of those that gave their time, talents, and energy to make it a great year. The fun didn’t stop there as we welcomed comedian Bryce Stanley to share some laughs with us. He told jokes about his upbringing in Bolivar, and a unique history lesson as well. This was a relaxing evening to celebrate and enjoy.

The act of giving is important all year long but especially right now during the holiday season. We are proud to be involved in Share Your Christmas. Life is astonishing when determined people work together for the greater good. We had a member donate his spot at the processor, and we all know how hard those appointments are to come by. We had three animals graciously donated that we are so thankful for. It makes you feel good as a cattleman or cattlewoman to know that ground beef will be going to families that truly need it. Over 400 families received gift bags and food baskets this year. Thanks to all that made it possible to donate several hundred pounds of ground beef to add to the baskets. Distribution was December 14 and 15 at the Assembly of God Activities Building in Bolivar.

We are looking forward to our 2023 Polk County Beef Queen, Jaka Sharp, representing us at the Missouri Cattle Industry Convention on January 6-8. This will be held in Osage Beach, Missouri, at Margaritaville Lake

Resort. Her duties there will begin with an interview and include a speech she has prepared. The coronation of the Missouri Beef Queen will be on Saturday, January 7. We look forward to all the experiences this coming year has to offer Jaka. There will be opportunities to learn and grow as she promotes our association.

Lafayette County Cattlemen

The Lafayette County Cattlemen met Tuesday, November 29, at the Mayview Community Building for the first in their series of educational meetings. Lance Groce and Jon Roberts of MFA, Inc., presented the program and moderated a question and answer session with those attending. A brief board meeting was held following refreshments. The next educational program will be held on January 31 at the Mayview Community Building beginning at 7 p.m. The program on 2023 input costs, land values and rental rates will be presented by MU Extension Ag Business Specialist Katie Neuner. Any interested producers are invited to attend.

Two Lafayette County Cattlemen members had steers placing in the top ten of the “Top 100” Profitability

Challenge. Wabash Angus (the Neuner family) and Silver Springs Ranch (the Harris family) placed fifth and sixth respectively.

Members grilled 200 ribeye steaks for sandwiches at the Ray-Carroll Co-op annual meeting held Tuesday, December 6, at the American Legion Building in Higginsville. Thanks to S & P Quality Meats in Marshall for providing excellent steaks for us!

Beef stick bundles were popular stocking stuffer items at the Lexington Craft Fair held December 3 at the school. Thanks to Sherie Neuner for selling them at her booth.

Lane Groce and John Roberts, MFA nutrition specialists, presented the November educational program.

LCCA members grilled ribeyes for the Ray-Carroll Co-op annual meeting.

Reduce Losses, Costs When Feeding Hay

Source: University of Missouri Extension News

KIRKSVILLE, Mo. – Livestock producers have options for reducing hay waste and feeding costs while improving animal behavior and performance, says University of Missouri Extension specialist Charlie Ellis.

Farmers can choose from several methods to reduce waste based on their preferences, labor availability and climate, said Ellis.

Here are four basics from Ellis:

• Right size, right place. Choose the right size and type of feeder. Match the feeder size to the herd size. Place feed on a pad or elevated surface and in a welldrained area.

• Boot out the bullies. Cull aggressive animals that push out other animals and prevent them from getting their fair share.

• Don’t let food go to waste. Make animals clean up most of the hay before making more available.

• Feed hay stored outside first. This reduces spoilage and improves palatability.

Ellis calls unrolling hay the “bed-and-breakfast” of the hay world. There are several advantages to unrolling hay across a large area instead of feeding at the bunk or ring, said Ellis. “Boss” cows and timid cows have equal access. This method also reduces hoof damage and compaction in the feeding area, can help overseed pastures with legumes and distributes nutrients back onto the ground.

Another option is to process bales. This encourages cows to eat low- to medium-quality forages. Processing allows

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mixing and dilution of forages of differing qualities, including high-nitrate forages.

However, bale processors have some drawbacks, said Ellis. Processors chop forages into smaller particles that dissolve easier in the rumen. This can leave cows feeling hungry and result in cows eating more food, which can mean higher feed costs. Also, processors cost $20,000$25,000.

Different styles of bale feeders are more efficient than others. Feeder and stocking rates determine if cone or open feeders are right for each operation.

Ellis said cone feeders are the most efficient. Sheeted rings waste less than open rings, the most wasteful of feeder designs. Producers also can restrict time of access with feeders to improve body score counts, increase milk production and reduce hay waste. Finding the right feeder design improves feeder payback, Ellis said.

When limiting time for feeding, allow at least 30 inches of bunk space per cow when bunk feeding and provide one bale per 10 cows when ring feeding, he said. Divide cows into groups based on age and “pecking order.” He also recommended feeding at the same time each day.

Free access encourages waste, Ellis says. Studies show that feeding daily instead reduces food costs and waste. Feed more often and waste less.

Choice of feeding ring also matters. There is less waste when feeding square bales in open rings rather than large bales in an open ring. Large round, unrolled bales fed in rings have 45% waste and are the least efficient, according to research done in 1973 at MU.

Considerations when buying hay:

• Test the hay to make sure it meets the nutritional needs of your herd.

• Know the hay’s age, how it was stored and how it was wrapped.

• Buy hay by the ton.

For more information:

• The MU Extension publication “Reducing Losses When Feeding Hay to Beef Cattle” is available for free download at extension.missouri.edu/g4570.

• Visit the Alliance for Grassland Renewal’s website at www.grasslandrenewal.org.

MU Extension Releases How-to Videos for Hiring on the Farm

Source: University of Missouri Extension News

COLUMBIA, Mo. – New how-to videos and related resources from University of Missouri Extension specialists can help farm operators looking to attract and keep workers.

“Finding and keeping employees continues to be a major issue on farms,” said MU Extension agricultural economist Joe Horner. “These bite-sized videos — available on the MU Extension website and YouTube — were designed to help farmers improve labor management.”

The animated videos, most of which are a little over two minutes long, guide Missouri farmers through enhancing their labor management skills.

“The videos cover best practices throughout the employment process, from recruitment to termination,” said Ryan Milhollin, assistant extension professor for agricultural business and policy in the MU College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources.

Subjects include interviewing applicants, onboarding

new hires, developing attractive compensation plans and conducting performance reviews.

In addition to the videos, the MU Extension Farm Labor webpage features links to related resources, including downloadable worksheets created by MU Extension.

“The easy-to-use checklists or templates tied to each video give producers a way to apply the information from the videos and customize labor management practices for their own farms,” Milhollin said.

For example, Annual To-Dos for Farm Employers (PDF) breaks down employer obligations that farms don’t want to forget. The Farm Job Promotional Plan (PDF) offers a step-by-step guide to recruiting job candidates.

Find the videos and resources at mizzou.us/FarmLabor.

The North Central Extension Risk Management Education Center, the USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture and University of Missouri Extension provided funding to develop the videos and complementary resources.

Britt Farms Receives 2022 Missouri Leopold Conservation Award

Source: Missouri Farmers Care Foundation

Britt Farms of Clifton Hill, Missouri, located in Randolph County, has been selected as the recipient of the 2022 Missouri Leopold Conservation Award®. This award, named after renowned conservationist Aldo Leopold, recognizes farmers, ranchers and foresters who inspire others with their dedication to land, water and wildlife habitat management on private land.

In Missouri, this award is presented annually by Sand County Foundation, American Farmland Trust, the Missouri Corn Merchandising Council, Missouri Farmers Care Foundation, the Missouri Soybean Merchandising Council and the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS).

Ryan Britt and family were announced as the award recipient during the Missouri Association of Soil and Water Conservation Districts Annual Training Conference in Osage Beach on November 28. For their recognition, the Britts received a check for $10,000 and a crystal award.

“Britt Farms is a true success story of conservation implementation across multiple generations, and they are eager to adopt and share new conservation technologies,” said Scott Edwards, NRCS Missouri State Conservationist. “Ryan Britt’s commitment to conservation extends beyond his own farm with his willingness to promote voluntary conservation and environmental stewardship both at the local and national level with the Association of Soil and Water Conservation Districts.”

Britt Farms Inc. is a family farm consisting of approximately 5,000 acres of row crops, hay and beef cattle production. Ryan is a fifth-generation farmer who, with his father, brother-in-law, and the support

Britt Farms was announced as the 2022 Missouri Leopold Conservation Award recipient on November 28 during the Missouri Association of Soil and Water Conservation Districts Annual Training Conference in Osage Beach. In Missouri, the $10,000 award is presented annually by Sand County Foundation, American Farmland Trust, Missouri Farmers Care Foundation, the Missouri Soybean Association and Missouri Soybean Merchandising Council, the Missouri Corn Merchandising Council and the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS). View the Britt’s conservation story film at www. MoFarmersCare.com/lca.

of their families, produces corn, soybeans, wheat, hay and cattle through practices which incorporate the use of technology and innovative partnerships to maximize efficiency and sustainability.

“Congratulations to Britt Farms on receiving the prestigious 2022 Missouri Leopold Conservation Award,” said Missouri Corn Merchandising Council Chairman Brent Hoerr. “Incorporating the latest technology to maximize soil health and the surrounding ecosystems, ultimately growing more with less, requires focus and discipline. The story of today’s true conservation spirit exemplified by the Britt family needs to be shared with audiences far and wide to inspire broader goals for future generations.”

Ryan’s fascination with technology’s role in agricultural conservation stems from watching his father make adjustments to their equipment that better evaluated their land. After coming home from the University of Missouri in 2000, Ryan was well-equipped with the knowledge of how technology can maximize efficiency while protecting water and soil. His first conservation adoptions included grid-based soil testing and variable rate fertilizer applications.

The Britts rapidly adopted conservation techniques. Britt Farms transitioned to a completely no-till system, incorporated crop rotations and cover crops to reduce soil erosion and improve soil health, and added a rotational grazing system for their beef cattle which allowed for reduction of soil erosion and protected water quality in the nearby Thomas Hill Reservoir. The family built a covered feeding area with a deep pack barn designed for zero runoff to minimize nutrient loss and optimize cattle health, built terraces and grassed waterways, and created a wetland area for wildlife preservation.

“As the national sponsor for Sand County Foundation’s Leopold Conservation Award, American Farmland Trust celebrates the hard work and dedication of the Britt family,” said John Piotti, AFT President and Chief Executive Officer. “At AFT, we believe that conservation in agriculture requires a focus on the land, the practices and the people and this award recognizes the integral role of all three.”

Earlier this year, Missouri landowners were encouraged to apply, or be nominated, for the award. Applications were reviewed by an independent panel of agricultural and conservation leaders. Among the many outstanding Missouri farmers nominated for the award were finalists: Rick Aufdenberg of Jackson in Cape Girardeau County, Cope Grass Farms of Truxton in Lincoln County, and Stanton Farms of Centralia in Boone County.

“Leopold Conservation Award recipients are examples of how Aldo Leopold’s land ethic is alive and well today. Their dedication to conservation shows how individuals

can improve the health of the land while producing food and fiber,” said Kevin McAleese, Sand County Foundation President and CEO.

The Leopold Conservation Award Program in Missouri is made possible thanks to the generous support of American Farmland Trust, Missouri Farmers Care Foundation, Missouri Corn Merchandising Council, Missouri Soybean Association, Missouri Soybean Merchandising Council, Sand County Foundation, USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, Missouri Cattlemen’s Association, MFA, Inc., Missouri Fertilizer Control Board, FCS Financial, Missouri Department of Conservation, Missouri Association of Soil and Water Conservation Districts, Missouri Soil and Water Conservation Program, Association of Missouri Electric Cooperatives, The Nature Conservancy in Missouri, and McDonald’s.

In his influential 1949 book, A Sand County Almanac, Leopold called for an ethical relationship between people and the land they own and manage, which he called “an evolutionary possibility and an ecological necessity.” Sand County Foundation presents the Leopold Conservation Award to private landowners in 24 states with a variety of conservation, agricultural and forestry organizations. For more information on the award, visit www.leopoldconservationaward.org.

American Angus Association Concludes a Strong Fiscal Year

Source: by Briley Richard, Angus Communications

The American Angus Association® concluded a successful fiscal year, packed with member-wide comradery and industry-leading advances. The year marked the eighth-consecutive year of more than 304,000 registrations, with an additional 141,385 recorded transfers. The fiscal year, which concluded September 30, tallied a grand total of 22,488 regular and junior memberships combined.

“Angus breeders have completed a successful year, despite many challenges with weather and rising input costs,” said Mark McCully, CEO of the Association. “Angus females averaged $6,023 last year and bulls averaged $5,909 signaling that Angus genetics are very much in demand.”

Angus Genetics Inc. (AGI®), a subsidiary of the Association, continued to plant themselves at the forefront of the industry to help breeders achieve their goals and serve as the trusted industry source of advanced genetic solutions. Boasting 1.229 million animals with profiles in the genetic evaluation, a 10% increase in profile tests and 13 ongoing research projects, AGI plans to keep the momentum heading into the new year and to new heights.

In efforts to provide tools to enhance breeder success, the Angus Herd Improvement Records (AHIR®) program transitioned the Hair Shed expected progeny difference (EPD) from the research environment to a production EPD, due to the hard work of Angus breeders who diligently collected data. The EPD aims to help breeders find animals best genetically equipped to handle hot, fescue-filled environments. Additionally, AHIR continued to promote the importance of

complete cow herd data through its Inventory Reporting program, enrolling 97,271 head from 768 herds.

The Angus MediaSM team created The Angus Conversation and Angus at Work podcasts to provide on-the-go information for Angus breeders and commercial cattlemen. Found anywhere you listen to podcast, the episodes feature a variety of guests who discuss everything from technology and breeding philosophies to marketing and traditions. With its goal of providing cost effective and quality marketing services to Angus breeders, Angus Media helped foster 34,000,000 online sale book page views and 3,500,000 email marketing sends.

The Certified Angus Beef ® (CAB) brand affirmed its quality standard with another year of exceeding consumer expectations. Combined focus on genetics and management led to a 35.5% brand acceptance rate. More than 5.78 million carcasses were certified and CAB marked 1.234 billion pounds sold. That’s an impressive 3.4 million pounds of CAB sold per day and the entity worked with more than 18,000 licensed partners in 54 countries this year.

With the value of Angus cattle consistently increasing, the Association continued its Powered by AngusSM advertising campaign. Combating the “black-hided confusion” in the marketplace, the campaign illustrates the confidence cattlemen can put in the power of EPD data, documented pedigrees and marketing programs with the purchase of registered Angus.

The Angus family continued to pour their support into the Angus Foundation’s mission of education, youth and research. With a record-setting $1.4 million in donations, each cent will impact the lives of Angus generations to come.

New Year

Beginning a new year can be a tricky thing. On one hand, it brings a clean slate filled with hope and limitless opportunities. On the other, it brings closure to a year filled with highs and lows – both personally and professionally.

We are looking forward to a successful 2023 session and making new legislative friends. Twenty-five percent of the legislature will consist of new legislators and represents opportunities to create new agricultural champions and further bridge rural and urban gaps.

Though, we are saddened to see former friends not return due to term limits and other reasons. It’s tough. We spend time getting to know one another and what matters. We learn where, when and how we can depend on one another. Then, they are just gone. They will be missed.

I’m feeling the same bittersweet feelings for an old friend from my previous life. I worked at Mizzou before I began lobbying. For those of you that are shocked, it’s okay. My mother was, too. I taught in the Department of Agricultural Economics and worked in the MO Value Added Development Center.

I was young. I was naïve. I was loud. I had so much to learn. I was not easily directed. I was not a great employee. Yet, I had a great boss in Joe Parcell. He was patient with me. He was far more flexible with me than most would have been, or I deserved. He was invested in Mizzou and his students. He was an interesting thinker with true foresight.

Mizzou and its College of Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources was lucky to have him. He served several teaching, research and extension roles during

his tenure. He was committed to the university, the college, its students, its alumni and its mission. And the administration let him leave.

Rarely does a truly talented person come along and dedicate themselves to a community. Joe did for over 24 years. CAFNR students were better for it. I am better for it. He is now moving to K-State to serve as its Center for Risk Management Education and Research Director.

To say I’m disappointed is an understatement. I’m sad my friend will no longer be working with young ag students and teaching them to think and view markets in new ways. I’m frustrated that the administration of my alma mater didn’t do more to keep such a talent. Though, I am happy for Joe. Mizzou’s loss is K-State’s gain.

Like many of my legislative friends, I will miss you, Joe Parcell.

Happy New Year, Nancy and Cooper

SALE REPORTS

SALE CALENDAR

Jan. 5 Commercial Cattlemen’s Luncheon at the Cattle Congress, Oklahoma City, OK

Jan. 27 Drake Simmental Bull and Female Sale, Centerville, IA

Jan. 28 Nichols Farms Sale, Bridgewater, IA

Feb. 3 Cow Camp Spring Bull Sale, Lost Springs, KS

Feb. 4 Loonan Stock Farm Sale, Corning, IA

Feb. 11 J& N Black Hereford Sale, Leavenworth, KS

Feb. 11 Genetic Power Gelbvieh & Balancer Bull

Sale, Springfield, MO

Feb. 18 Byergo Angus Sale, Savannah, MO

Feb. 24 Ja mison Herefords Bull Sale, Quinter, KS

Feb. 25 Ga laxy Beef Production Sale, Macon, MO

Feb. 25 Seedstock Plus North Missouri Bull Sa le, Kingsville, MO

Feb. 25 Post Rock Cattle Co Sale, Barnard, KS

Feb. 26 65th Missouri Angus Breeders Futurity Sale, Columbia, MO

March 3 Ex press Ranches Spring Bull Sale, Yukon, OK

March 4 Mead Farms Spring Sale, Ver sailles, MO

March 4 Peterson Farms Bull Sale, Mou ntain Grove, MO

March 4 Seedstock Plus Arkansas Bull & Female Sale, Hope, AR

March 11 Sa mpson Annual Bull Sale, Ki rksville, MO

March 11 Fl ickerwood Angus Sale, Jackson MO

March 11 Wr ight Charolais Bull Sale, Kea rney, MO

March 11 Ex press Honor Roll Sale, Yukon, OK

March 11 Heart of the Ozarks Angus Sale, West Plains, MO

March 11 Seedstock Plus Red Reward Bull & Female Sale, Osceola, MO

March 11

Soaring Eagle Farms Bull Sale, Spr ingfield, MO

March 16 Henke Farms Sale, Salisbury, MO

March 17 Ma rshall & Fenner Farms Sale, Boonville, MO

March 18 Va lley Oaks Spring Sale, Warsaw, MO

March 18 Fa lling Timber Farm Sale, Mar thasville, MO

March 18 Br inkley Angus Ranch Sale, Green City, MO

March 18

March 18

March 18

Mississippi Valley Angus Sale, Pa lmyra, MO

Bradley Cattle Bull & Bred Female Sale, Spr ingfield, MO

Windy Hill Charolais Open House, Cedar Hill, MO

March 18 Wild Indian Acres Annual Spring Bull Sale, Car thage, MO

March 19 Br iarwood Angus Farms Spring Sale, But ler, MO

March 20 Hi nkle’s Prime Cut Angus Sale, Nevada, MO

March 25 Worthington Angus Sale, Dadeville, MO

March 25 8 Story Farms 4th Annual Production Sale, Gallatin, MO

March 25

March 28

Seedstock Plus South Missouri Bull & Female Sale, Carthage, MO

Ferguson Angus Sale, Agra, KS

April 1 Four State Angus Association Sale Spr ingfield, MO

April 3

Brockmere Sale, New Cambria, MO

April 7 Meyer Cattle Co. Sale Bowling Green, MO

April 11 Sydenstricker Influence Sale, New Cambria, MO

April 29

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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BLACK SIMMENTAL BULLS SINCE 1993: Calving Ease, Attractive, Athletic, Sound Footed and Docile. We Deliver. Mike Williams, Higginsville, 816-797-5450

Aschermann Charolais Bull Sale, Ca rthage, MO

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