The Beefmaster Pay Weight - Fall 2023

Pay Weight

The Value of Beefmaster Cattle to Commercial Producers

by Joe W. Mask PhD., Beefmaster Breeders United

Beefmaster cattle are known for their adaptability, efficiency in conversion of feed to meat, and overall performance in commercial beef cattle operations. They were developed in the United States in the mid20th century with the goal of creating a breed that excelled in the “six essentials” Disposition, Fertility, Weight, Confirmation, Hardiness and Milk Production. I would like to stress in this article about the impact of Beefmaster cattle in a commercial beef cattle operation.

In a commercial beef cattle operation, Beefmaster cattle can offer several advantages:

1. Maternal Traits: Beefmaster females are known for their strong maternal instincts and good mothering abilities. They typically have good udders and are attentive to their calves, which is crucial for calf survival and growth rates.

2. Hybrid Vigor:

Beefmasters are a composite breed resulting from the combination of Brahman, Hereford, and Shorthorn genetics. This hybrid vigor, also known as heterosis, can lead to increased growth rates, improved reproductive performance, and overall better health in the cattle. This is particularly advantageous in commercial operations where maximizing productivity is crucial.

3. Adaptability: Beefmasters are well-known for their adaptability to various environmental conditions. They have a high tolerance for heat, humidity, and other challenging climates, which makes them suitable for operations in different regions. This adaptability can reduce the risk of health issues and increase the likelihood of successful calving and reproduction.

4. Efficiency: These cattle have a reputation for efficient feed conversion, meaning they can turn the feed they consume into meat more effectively than some other breeds. This efficiency can lead to cost savings for the commercial operation by reducing the amount of feed needed to produce a pound of meat in the feedlot.

5. Crossbreeding Potential:

Beefmasters are often used in crossbreeding programs to improve the performance and adaptability of other breeds. Crossbreeding Beefmasters with other breeds can often result in a calf with the strengths of both breeds, creating more robust and productive animals.

6. Disease Resistance: Due to their Bos indicus

heritage, Beefmasters possess a certain degree of natural resistance to certain diseases and parasites, which can reduce the need for intensive veterinary interventions.

their meat quality is not as emphasized as in British beef breeds, their meat is generally of good quality. Their hybrid genetics can result in desirable meat traits, such as marbling and tenderness.

7. Meat Quality: Beefmasters are raised for beef production, and while continued on page 4

In a commercial beef cattle operation, integrating Beefmaster genetics can contribute to a more resilient and profitable herd. However, it's important to note that the success of a cattle operation depends on factors that include proper management practices, nutrition, healthcare, and environmental conditions.

Articles In This Issue...

Dr. Joe Mask

Excecutive Vice President

Beefmaster Breeders United

beefmasters.org

Page 1 -The Value of Beefmaster Cattle to Commercial Producers by Joe W. Mask, PhD., Beefmaster Breeders United

Page 5 - Where Do Beefmaster Cattle Fit Moving Forward? by Lance W. Bauer, PhD., Beefmaster Breeders United

Page 8 - Meet the Beefmaster Breeders United Staff ! by Addison Coburn, Beefmaster Breeders United

Page 11 - Cash Cattle Higher as Herd Continues to Shrinks by Greg Henderson, Drovers

Page 14 - Texs cattle producers plan for, look toward post-drought market by Adam Russel, Texas Crop & Weather Report, AGRILIFE TODAY

Page 21 - Genomic Prediction Tool can Help Select Best-in-Class Commercial Cattle by Courtney Perrett, Drovers

Page 23 - Several Reasons for Slow Herd Expansion by Darrell Peel, Oklahoma State University, Drovers

Page 24 - Fall 2023 Beefmaster Sale & Event Calendar

Page 31 - Advertisers' Index

the BEEFMASTER Pay Weight Beefmaster Breeders United

The Beefmaster Pay Weight is a publication produced by Beefmaster Breeders United and dedicated to serving commercial cattlemen.

The Beefmaster Pay Weight Team

Editor: Addison Coburn

Managing Editor: Dr. Joe Mask & Dr. Lance Bauer

Advertising Coordinators: Dr. Lance Bauer, Dr. Joe Mask, & Addison Coburn

Graphic Designer: Addison Coburn

Beefmaster Breeders United Staff Members

Dr. Joe Mask: Executive Vice President

Dr. Lance Bauer: Director of Breed Improvement

Jon Garza: Director of International Programs

Donna Henderson: Office Manager

Kylie McIntosh: Membership Coordinator and B. E. E. F. Liaison

Laurel Kelley: Youth Program Coordinator

Brinley Allison: Student Worker - Membership Services

Taylor Brown: Student Worker - DNA

Addison Coburn: Communications Coordinator and Membership Services

For advertisement sales: Contact Addison Coburn or Dr. Lance Bauer at 210-732-3132

Contact BBU: P.O. Box 3790, Bryan, TX 77805 - (210) 732-3132 - info@beefmasters.org

Beefmaster Breeders United reserves the right to refuse advertising in any publications. © 2023 Beefmaster Breeders United. All rights reserved. The contents of this magazine may not be reproduced by any means, in whole or part, without prior written consent of Beefmaster Breeders United.

Where Do Beefmaster Cattle Fit Moving Forward?

by Lance W. Bauer, PhD., Beefmaster Breeders United

The United States beef industry is in a unique place right now, all classes of cattle from calves to cull cows are fetching a premium and there is still drought across the Midwest and throughout most of Texas. This means that until the drought subsides people will continue to cull and reduce the size of the US cow herd. According to the USDA, as of July 1, 2023, the total number of all cattle and calves is down 3% from July 1, 2022. It is also projected that the calf crop in the US will be down 2% from last year. With the high prices and continued drought, the rebuilding of the cowherd is expected to be slow. However, the cattle industry has cycles, and the rebuilding cycle will start and Beefmasters are fit to be the breed of choice for rebuilding the cowherd.

As rebuilding happens one of the focuses will be on sustainability, it has been a

key focus in the industry for several years and there is even indication that consumers are willing to pay for sustainable products. Beefmaster cattle fit the mold for sustainable cattle, they are efficient on many levels and different aspects of production, from feed efficiency to maternal efficiency Beefmasters excel. Maternal efficiency will be the key to rebuilding the US cow herd, females that are able to get bred and calve regularly every year will help the most. Maternal traits like these are one area where Beefmaster females excel, because of heterosis. Heterosis has a larger impact on lowly heritable traits such as: fertility, maternal ability, and longevity. The way in which the Beefmaster was developed created a breed that has 63% retained heterosis compared to 43% retained heterosis in other composite breeds. This makes Beefmaster

females ideal from a maternal and reproductive standpoint. Maternal and reproductive efficiency will be extremely important as the US cattle industry focuses on rebuilding. Beefmaster and Beefmaster cross females are extremely productive cows that can add money to a producer’s bottomline year after year. Heterosis also impacts health traits and crossbred calves tend to be healthier and hardier. This leads to less treatments and deaths in the feed yard and in turn less financial loss in the yard.

The rebuilding of the US cow herd will probably be a slow process and take several years. Beefmaster cattle have the right components to help rebuild the herd to be more efficient and sustainable in the years to come. The advantages of heterosis will be the key moving forward and Beefmaster cattle have

the ability to provide the commercial producer with the added heterosis that will make them valuable replacement females as well as steers that will perform on feed and stay healthy. Beefmasters are poised to make a large impact on the rebuilding of the US cow herd n the years to come.

Dr. Lance Bauer Director of Breed Improvement Beefmaster Breeders United

Meet the Beefmaster Breeders United Staff!

Dr. Joe Mask joined Beefmaster Breeders United (BBU) as the new Executive Vice President on September 6, 2022. Most recently, Mask served as Executive Vice President for the American Brahman Breeders Association. Prior to his role with the Brahman association, he served as an Assistant Professor and Extension Specialist in Youth Veterinary Science with the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service and Institute for Infectious Animal Diseases. In this role, Mask was instrumental in implementing the Veterinary Science Certificate Program in all 50 states and four countries. Before this, he served as an Agriculture Science Teacher or County Extension Agent for 16 years.

Mask received his Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Science from Texas A&M University, Master of Science in Agriculture Education from Tarleton State University, and Doctorate in Extension Education from Texas A&M University under the guidance of Dr. Chris Boleman. Mask has judged cattle for the past 24 years at local, county, state, national, and international shows. Mask lives in Franklin, Texas with his wife Julie and daughter Jennifer, where they raise Brahman, Simbrah, and Simmental cattle. His greatest joy is watching his daughter, Jennifer show and advocate for the beef cattle industry.

Mask is the Executive Vice President for Beefmaster Breeders United. In this role, he leads one of the global beef industry’s purebred beef associations, represents progressive and committed Beefmaster breeders on a worldwide level, manages a professional team, represents the association at worldwide beef events, and guides the organization as demand for Beefmaster cattle genetics continue to rise. It is his goal to make Beefmaster a common name when talking about the beef industry.

Dr. Lance Bauer was born and raised in the Texas Hill Country, in Ingram, Texas. He grew up with commercial cattle and registered sheep. He also worked in his family’s feed store business.

He attended Texas A&M University, where he graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Animal Science, and furthered his education to completing a Ph.D. in Animal Breeding at Texas A&M, with an emphasis on beef cattle. Bauer and his wife Kaley, reside in College Station, Texas.

Bauer works daily on answering questions about data collection and performance, and how it is used in the Beefmaster breed, as well as in the industry. He also works on education about the breed and where the breed is moving. Bauer works closely with the Breed Improvement Committee, to help the committee make informed decisions that will be beneficial to the breed. He looks into where the breed can focus on research and education to increase the impact on the industry. Bauer is in charge of inputting scan data as it arrives from the lab, and sending out scan results when they arrive.

Her roots run deep, and to this day she is still a diehard Alabama Crimson Tide fan! Henderson aspired from a young age to be an elementary education major, but got married before she attained that goal. Not long after she and her husband were married, her husband joined the Air Force. Her first daughter was born in San Antonio, and her second daughter was born in England.

Henderson has also lived in Las Vegas, Nevada and Biloxi, Mississippi during her husband’s career. She ended up back in San Antonio, close to her parents when her husband retired. She has held all kinds of jobs, all the way from wrapping meat at a deer processing plant, being a childcare provider, a Church Secretary, a teleservice representative with Sears, and an order entry representative at QVC.

She began as the file and mailroom Clerk at Beefmaster Breeders Universal in 1994 and has continued working with the Association for almost twentynine years. She always says it is the breeders she serves that have made her stay. In twentynine years, she has seen the graduation and marriage of both of her children, the birth of two precious grandchildren, and the illness and eventual loss of both of her parents and both in-laws. Henderson states that Beefmaster breeders are a passionate bunch and some of the best people you will ever meet. Who knew that when she walked into the BBU Office at 6800 Park Ten Blvd on May 23, 1994, without an interview appointment, that she would still be walking through their Office doors in 2023 in Bryan, Texas now as the Office Manager!

over the phone.

When members call in with specific questions, Henderson researches those topics and relays the information. She assists with keeping track of other staff’s schedules and vacation time. She sets up emails for committee chairs and handles board of director correspondence. “I basically do a little bit of everything,” Henderson said. “Another thing I try to do is to just keep up with the morale around the office.. I truly enjoy the people I work with; it is like working with extended family.”

Donna Henderson was born in Mobile, Alabama, and moved to San Antonio, Texas where her father’s civil service job transferred him before she entered second grade.

Henderson is the office manager at BBU. Henderson’s job encompasses a wide array of responsibilities from keeping the office supplies stocked, to assisting the EVP with handling payments. She does data entry, issues passwords, takes calls, and resolves registration issues

Kylie McIntosh is originally from Boerne, Texas. She grew up raising and showing swine and Brahman cattle. She currently owns and operates LK Brahmans with her younger sister.

Prior to working at Beefmaster Breeders United, McIntosh was the intern for the Brahman Foundation, where she served as their Scholarship Coordinator. She has enjoyed her time with BBU as the Membership Coordinator, and recently took on another position as the B.E.E.F Liaison for the association. She is currently a new resident to College Station, Texas, and is eager for her future with BBU!

McIntosh is the Beefmaster Breeders United Membership Coordinator, and the Beefmaster Educational Endowment Foundation (B.E.E.F.). In these roles, she serves as a liaison between the organization and its members, as well as managing the current membership database, and helping execute successful

Dr. Joe Mask Excutive Vice President

Dr. Lance Bauer Director of Breed Improvement

Donna Henderson Office Manager

strategies to recruit and orient she works closely with the foundation president to execute administrative and finance tasks for the foundation.

International Programs. His duties include coordinating the international programs, as well as helping grow more interest in Beefmaster genetics on the international and domestic fronts.

Addison Coburn is originally from Sterling City, Texas. She grew up exhibiting steers and a few barrows. She attended Blinn College in Brenham, Texas to compete on the Blinn livestock judging team.

Jon Garza is originally from Laredo, Texas. He attended US Army Chemical School in Fort McClellan, Alabama, and graduated from Texas A&M Kingsville with a Bachelor of Science in Range and Wildlife Management. Shortly after graduating, he started working for the TDA as a field investigator and inspector in Corpus Christi, and then served as TDA Coordinator for the Grain Warehouse Program in Austin, Texas.

Garza served a total of 25 years and seven months with the TDA, and served six years in the military. Jon comes to us from the Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA), where he most recently acted as Director for International Programs and Livestock Export Pens. His duties consisted of directing, developing and implementing and being the primary information source for the agency relative to all international programs and livestock export.

Garza’s volunteer work consists of serving on the United States Livestock Genetics Export Board of Directors, and he is an officer in Post 1805 of the Catholic War Veterans of Austin, Texas. Garza and his wife, Denise, have three grown children, and eight grandchildren. His family has used Beefmaster bulls on their South Texas cattle ranch for over 30 years. They still own and operate two ranches, which date back to 1808 through the Spanish land grant.

Garza is the Director of

Taylor Brown is a Senior Genetic Major at Texas A&M University. Growing up, she was involved with replacement heifers in FFA. She has always been an active member of her agricultural community through such activities as rodeo and local horsemanship events. Brown first developed her passion for genetics in high school, and knew she wanted to pursue a career in that realm. After attending Texas A&M University for a few years, she developed a relationship with some of the professors in the Animal Science department, going as far as taking Animal Breeding as an elective. She hopes to further her understanding of animal genetics and the way genetics can be used to improve animal quality and longevity.

She hopes to do this by finishing her Bachelor’s Degree in Genetics and obtaining her Master’s Degree in Animal Breeding. Her main role at Beefmaster Breeders United is to manage DNA testing requests, animal parentage retests, and to answer general questions about DNA testing and genetics.

She transferred to Texas A&M University after attending Blinn College, and graduated in August of 22’ with a Bachelors of Science in Agriculture Communications and Journalism. Prior to working for BBU, Coburn worked in a student worker position for Path to the Plate with AgriLife Extension.

Coburn started working for Beefmaster Breeders United in January 2023. She is the Communications Coordinator, and also helps with Membership Services. Her job duties at Beefmaster Breeders United, mainly consist of handling all of the communication related requests. This can range from creating and sending out E-Blasts, Facebook and Instagram posts for BBU members, to helping create the BBU Pay Weight and more. She also handles some of the transfers that come though the BBU office, as well as answering the phones and trying to help out wherever she can! She has enjoyed her time so far at BBU and looks forward to the future!

of Science degree in Animal Science. Animal Science. She is currently continuing her education at Texas A&M University, pursuing a master’s degree in Agriculture Leadership, Education, and Communications. Kelley began her career at Beefmaster Breeders United as the Youth Programs Coordinator in October of 2022, and has enjoyed getting to know the outstanding young people in the Beefmaster industry.

Kelley is the Youth Programs Coordinator. She spends most of her time organizing the JBBA Junior National Show and Convention that takes place in July every year. Additionally, she works very closely with the JBBA Board of Directors, by serving as an advisor, and coordinating fundraisers, meetings, and events throughout the year. Kelley does much more, including keeping the JBBA social media up to date, as well as traveling to all the junior major stock shows to support Beefmaster exhibitors. She is very excited to be serving as the Co-Chair of the 2023 Convention Committee. Daily in the office, she will answer phones and assist with other tasks as needed.

Laurel Kelley is originally from Yoakum, Texas, where she grew up raising and showing steers. Kelley began judging collegiately at Blinn College, and transferred to Texas A&M University, where she competed on a nationally recognized team. While at Texas A&M, Kelley obtained a Bachelor

Brinley Allison is currently a Sophomore Animal Science major at Texas A&M University. She grew up right outside of Waco, Texas. Growing up, Allison was very involved in her community, playing multiple sports, taking part in local organizations, PALs, and Texas 4-H.

continued on page 9

Kylie McIntosh Membership Coordinator

B.E.E.F. Liaison

Jon Garza Director of International Programs

Taylor Brown Student Worker - DNA

Addison Coburn Communications Coordinator Memebership Services

Laurel Kelley Youth Program Coordinator

Most importantly, Allison had the opportunity to show and raise livestock, mostly Beefmaster heifers. At Texas A&M, she is involved in several on campus organizations, including Saddle and Sirloin, Student Government Association, and Freshman Leaders in Progress. Allison plans on obtaining her Bachelor of Science in Animal Science and then plans on to attend medical school in hopes to one day become a general practitioner.

Allison is a student worker at Beefmaster Breeders

United. Her main job responsibilities consist of working on transfers, opening mail, and helping around the office wherever she can!

beefmasters.org

Brinley Allison Student Worker - Member Services

Cash Cattle Higher as Herd Continues to Shrink

by Greg Henderson, Drovers

Packers and cattle feeders spent the week in a standoff with moderate trades in both the North and South occurring mostly on Friday.

National Agricultural Statistics Service’s dual July reports were bullish as expected, suggesting a 3% decline in cattle inventories and a 2% decline in cattle on feed inventories.

Cash trade in the North was at $188 live and $295 dressed, $2 higher on the live and $5 higher dressed compared to the previous week. Cattle traded in the South at $180 per cwt., $2 higher. Feeder cattle traded in light volumes mostly steady to $6 higher; calves traded mixed at $2 loer to $2 higher.

Wholesale beef prices continued trending lower. Friday’s Choice boxed beef closed at $302.74 per cwt., down $3.20 for the week. Select

the comparable year-ago level. That reflected anticipation of June placements 1.6% under year-ago, while marketings were seen falling well short (4.9%) of last year. The USDA stated the July 1 population at 11.204 milllion head, down 1.8% from last year, so the report holds negative implications for Monday’s opening. Last month’s feedlot placements easily topped expectations by increasing 44,000 head (2.7%) over year-ago. June marketings matched expectations for an approximate 5% annual drop, which both of those results looking negative for Monday’s opening.

Cattle Inventory

USDA estimated the U.S. cattle herd as of July 1 at 95.9 million head, down 2.7 million head (2.7%) from last year and 628,000 head less than

head (2.4%) decline in beef replacement heifers signals the beef herd will continue to shrink.

boxed beef closed Friday at $274.71 per cwt., down $1.90 per cwt. for the week. Traders anticipating a summer decline in fed cattle prices actively sold live cattle futures again today. Nearby August cattle slid 30 cents to $180.025, while August feeder futures rallied 82.5 cents to $245.925. Those closing prices represented weekly losses of 15 cents and 72.5 cents, respectively.

Cattle on Feed

Traders expected Friday’s Cattle on Feed report to state the July 1 large-lot feedyard population at 97.7% of

the average pre-report estimate implied. That was a record low for the U.S. cattle herd dating back to the start of USDA’s data in 1990. Total cows and heifers calved stood at 38.8 million head, down 800,000 head (2.0%). All of that reduction was in beef cows, which fell to 29.4 million head. Dairy cows and heifers calved was unchanged at 9.4 million head. The 2023 calf crop is estimated at record low 33.8 million head, down 665,000 head (1.9%) from last year.

The smaller beef cow inventory along with a 100,000

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Texas cattle producers plan for, look toward post-drought market

by Texas Crop and Weather Report, Adam Russell - Oct. 12, 2022, AGRILIFE TODAY

Texas cattle producers should be planning ahead and ready for scenarios that put them in good position to capitalize on a potentially strong post-drought cattle market, according to a Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service expert.

Jason Cleere, Ph.D., AgriLife Extension statewide beef cattle specialist, BryanCollege Station, said cattle producers face a range of challenges and concerns as herds enter fall and winter, particularly those related to rainfall between now and spring.

Producers need to minimize costs while maximizing their herd’s productivity through these challenges because cattle market outlooks are positive, Cleere said.

According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, rainfall events in mid-August through early September reduced the percentage of the state experiencing some form of drought. More than 99% of Texas was experiencing drought on Aug. 2 compared to 78% on Sept. 13, but the percentage has climbed back to 89% as of Oct. 4.

The next drought monitor report is expected to show worsening drought conditions due to recent high temperatures and lack of rainfall, he said. The weather is expected to shift toward an El Niño pattern by spring, but the lingering La Niña patterns, which typically deliver warmer, drier weather to most of Texas, have left big question marks for producers.

Cleere said many producers still face tough decisions on their herds related to the potential costs of keeping cattle based on their operation’s stocking rates and forage stocks. Some producers are facing decisions based on low pond or stock tank water levels.

Cow and calf prices

are expected to rise following widespread herd consolidation across the state due to drought, he said. Producers should be mapping out their winter based on available grazing, forage and hay stocks, as well as expected costs for supplemental feed.

The goal should be to maintain a good body condition score going into the calving seasons so that those cows will breed back to ensure a good calf crop the following year, Cleere said.

“I am optimistic about cattle numbers and future demand over the next few years,” he said. “We could be poised to be as good or better than 2014-2015, so we need to be thinking about the calf crop that will be hitting the market, and the costs of pregnancy rates and supplementation through winter. My fear is that producers will try to cut corners, and that it could impact the calf crop, fertility and the timely breed-back of cows, which would impact the next year’s calf crop.” Be efficient rather than cut corners

Nutrition is not the place to cut corners, Cleere said.

Producers should aim for a body condition score of five for cows at calving, he said. This provides a buffer for lactating cows that will help them maintain a good condition as they recover for breeding.

Improving an operation’s efficiency when it comes to animal nutrition can be done in several ways, he said.

Cleere recommends testing hay to determine the nutritive value and what type of nutritional supplementation may be necessary. Many hay producers reduced fertilizer applications due to higher nitrogen prices this season, and hay quality could be lower than normal.

“Hay supplies are much better than they were 60 days ago, but ranchers will still be

cutting it close,” he said. “It’s a great idea to test hay and let that guide the supplemental diet in an efficient way.”

Producers should also look into purchasing supplemental feed in bulk rather than by the bag or pricing other supplements with nutrition per pound in mind, he said. Total digestible nutrients per pound of feed is an important consideration because some less expensive rations may include higher amounts of fiber, which reduces the energy value of the feed.

Cleere said producers could also consider pricing troughs to reduce waste.

“Under wetter conditions, you may lose 20%30% of cubes, and you can see a lot of nutrition go to waste on the ground,” he said. “The key is looking for efficiency in our feed management and getting the most out of every dollar you spend.”

Winter pasture could be good investment

Warm-season pastures are playing out at this point. The investment in winter pasture, including ryegrass, could be another way to provide efficient nutrition for cattle, Cleere said. But that option is heavily dependent on whether fields receive timely rainfall events to fuel germination, establish good stands and growth if winter temperatures are mild, or during spring green up.

“There is certainly an opportunity to overseed with ryegrass, especially with the lack of thatch in many pastures,” he said. “Fertilizer prices have come down, but the question is will it rain enough to get ryegrass pastures up and keep them going through spring.”

Cleere said overseeding ryegrass in East Texas typically begins around Oct. 15, but that very few producers were preparing yet due to the moisture situation. Producers

should be ready to capitalize on positive weather patterns if they are looking to establish winter pasture.

During the drought in 2011, Cleere said his operation received its first rain the week of Thanksgiving. He overseeded a sacrifice pasture that was grazed down with ryegrass the day after Thanksgiving.

“It was a mild winter, we fertilized and we had good rain, and by the end of January we had a foot of ryegrass,” he said. “That turned out to be a perfect winter for that, but it started with being ready for the rain.

“The positive is the numbers and indications that we’re seeing good market predictions,” he said. “The negatives are what we are dealing with right now with the drought and the cost of everything. We’ll need those expected prices to see profits, and so we need to be doing everything we can to control costs without sacrificing herd production.”

AgriLife Extension district reporters compiled the following summaries:

Central

Extreme drought conditions continued across the district. Soil moisture levels were very short. Rangeland and pasture conditions were very poor in nearly all areas. Stock tanks were dry, and hay was in short supply. Livestock were being liquidated. Armyworms and desert termite reports were increasing, and aphids were in pecan trees. Crops were in poor condition. Grains that were planted and emerged had dried up.

Rolling Plains

Conditions were very dry across the district. Many producers were dry planting cool-season forages. Cover

continued on page 15

crops were being planted on failed cotton acres to prevent erosion during winter and spring. Fall work on cattle was underway. Wheat was planted, but fields were either emerging and dying or failing to germinate. Armyworms and fleahoppers were a problem for producers. Pastures were turning brown, and supplemental feeding of cattle continued. Cattle were in good shape.

Costal Bend

Temperatures were slightly cooler, but dry weather continued to reduce soil moisture levels. Field activities continued with disking, bedding up rows and spraying. Rice harvest was complete. Rain will be necessary for winter pasture planting and production. Rangeland and pasture conditions were drying out fast. Hay fields were being cut and baled. Some beef producers were feeding hay to cattle due to a lack of forage. Hay supplies were expected to be short going into winter. Cattle were in excellent

condition with prices steady to higher and inventories below normal from the drought selloff.

East

Drought conditions worsened, and rainfall was desperately needed. Pasture and rangeland conditions were poor to good. Subsoil and topsoil conditions were short. Ponds and creeks continued to dry up. The cotton crop was a total loss. Producers were trying to get one last cutting of hay. Livestock were doing fair to good with diet supplementation taking place. Hay supplies continued to be short. Wild pig activity slowed.

South Plains

Some rainfall was received. The moisture could help wheat plantings but delayed other crop harvests. Sunflower fields were almost completely dried down. Wheat fields were being scouted for pests. Cotton harvest aide applications were beginning, and bolls were opening quicker. The rain could create regrowth and weed problems that may

require management. Cattle were in good condition.

Panhandle

Temperatures were cooler, and light rainfall was reported but not enough to improve soil moisture levels. Soil moisture levels were short. Corn harvest was close. Grain sorghum was close with many fields starting to color nicely. Winter wheat planting continued. Cotton was coming along nicely with bolls opening in some fields and harvest aides being applied in others. Rangeland and pasture conditions were poor. Ranchers were preparing to supplement cattle diets or ship for sale, and calf weaning was underway.

North

Soil moisture was short for most of the district, and conditions continued to decline. Some producers were dry planting wheat and oats. Many ponds and stock tanks were drying up, and hay supplies were still critically low. Hay was being cut from roadsides and other locations. Grasshopper populations were

still high.

Far West

Colder temperatures dropped into the mid-80s during the day and mid-50s overnight. Showers moved through the district with totals ranging from trace amounts to 1.3 inches. A large hailstorm and flash flooding hit Pecos County with an accumulation of a foot or more of dimesized hail reported. The hail caused damage to trees, shrubs and grass. Some roads washed out and buildings were flooded. Cotton harvest began, and yields were predictably poor. Wheat planting continued. Pastures remained bare, so all livestock were being fed.

continued on page 18

West Central

The weather was dry with warm to hot afternoons and cool nights. Some areas received decent rain, and farmers were trying to plant more wheat. Some producers were dry planting wheat and hoping for moisture. Some lateseason hay baling occurred. The pecan harvest was about two weeks behind normal. Pastures were dry, and livestock owners were beginning to sell off more livestock after the brief slow down.

Southwest

Drought conditions continued. Wheat and oat plantings were complete. Dry conditions were impacting germination of the most recently planted wheat. Wildfire risks remained high. Cotton harvest appeared to be complete. Daytime temperatures were cooler with low humidity. Some winter small grains were being planted. Pastures and rangeland continued to decline while producers relied on supplemental feed for livestock and continued to cull animals.

South Northern parts of the district reported very short to short soil moisture levels while eastern, western and southern areas were mostly short to adequate. Weather remained dry with cooler

temperatures. Cotton harvest was complete in most areas and almost complete in others. Cotton harvest was complete in most areas and almost complete in others. Cotton bales were being moved to gins. Peanuts were maturing under irrigation. Citrus and sugarcane were being irrigated as well. Dirt work and plastic mulch placement continued in preparation for strawberry planting. Onions and other winter vegetables were being planted. Producers continued fieldwork preparations for row crops. Hay producers continued to cut and bale, but most summer forages were finished for the season with most producers reported just one cutting. Rangeland and pasture conditions were declining, and diet supplementation was necessary for all livestock and beef cattle operations. Reports of good pasture conditions were scattered, and a few areas reported continued improvement. Cattle prices were steady at some markets and dipped at others, and herd culling slowed. Cattle body

conditions were good. Fields were being prepared for oats and winter wheat fields and food plots, but few plantings were in so far due to fall armyworm concerns. Pecan harvests were expected to be average. Hunters were supplementing deer with corn, protein and cotton seed. Falcon Lake water levels continued to improve.

beefmasters.org

Reprinted with Permission from AGRILIFE TODAY

Commander in Chief C1063407

In thirty years of raising beefmaster cattle, we have never had a bull perform as well as Commander in Chief. Homozygous black with a mottle face that commercial cattlemen love, Commander will add eye appeal, bone, and mass to your herd. Great dispositions, phenotypes, and weaning weights (regularly 600 -700+ lbs.) are just what today’s market calls for, and just what you can find in Commander’s genetics. For calves so outstanding that you won’t want to sell them, give Commander a try today.

Genomic Prediction Tool can Help Select Best-in-Class Commercial Cattle

by Courtney Perrett, Drovers

Ranches across the Show-Me State manage approximately two million cattle — a significant number of which are Angus, a toptier breed that has unrivaled success in the commercial beef market. In a new study, University of Missouri researcher Jared Decker and Thompson Research Farm tested a group of commercial Angus cows using a commercial genomic prediction tool called Zoetis GeneMax Advantage to investigate the ability of the test to predict their calves’ performance and profitability. This project demonstrates an important step forward in helping inform the selective breeding of commercial cowherds and giving Missouri cattle producers a competitive market advantage.

While testing a sample of commercial Angus females and their offspring at MU’s Thompson Research Farm, Decker found significant relationships between the cows’ genetic merit and the performance of their calves. For the study, researchers focused on specific traits, such as weaning and carcass weight, marbling, fat, and ribeye area.

“In prioritizing the use of this technology, Thompson Research Farm

recently harvested a set of 35 steers, 70% of which graded prime, the highest quality grade that the Department of Agriculture (USDA) ranks meat,” said Decker, Wurdack Chair of Animal Genomics in the College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources.

“Compared to the industry, which grades Prime at a rate of 6%, this is really excellent.”

Decker believes this success stems from the technology that makes genomic predictions possible. In practice, DNA testing allows farmers to select better cows and refine the herd with good genetics on top of good management. As a specialist in the ways technology can streamline farming practices, Decker sees it as his calling to help producers corner the market.

“It’s a goal of mine to help producers innovate in ways that get them closer to harnessing a competitive advantage in this market,” Decker said. “I want to help them adopt new technologies like DNA testing and genomic prediction. For a while now, we’ve had historical data on the performance of calves in terms of growth and carcass performance. So, a key goal of this study was to demonstrate to farmers, ranchers, extension

professionals, veterinarians and academics that this technology does, in fact, work. There is a significant relationship between calf performance and the cow's genetic merit.”

Although genomic prediction has a legacy of success in seedstock cattle — purebred animals with documented pedigrees — this is the first time it’s shown to work in a sample of commercial cattle. For Missouri’s beef industry, a leading driver of state revenue, genomic prediction technology represents an opportunity for growth, both for producers and the economy.

“Genomic prediction tools allow farmers to go from not knowing the pedigree or any of the animal’s performance data to taking a DNA sample and receiving a very accurate prediction as to the heifer’s genetic merit,” said Decker, explaining that this technology opens doors for commercial producers to be more aggressive in selecting the right females to go back into the herd. “This gives farmers a chance to make informed decisions that enhance sustainable profitability.”

For family run farms, genomic prediction technology is not only affordable, but also provides opportunities for

small operations to document calf crops that boast superior genetic score cards. This allows farmers to either hold on to the calves through their feeding period and make a greater profit off their carcass merit or to market the weaned calf at a premium based on their first-rate genetics, instead of at typical commodity prices.

“Farmers and ranchers really value this lifestyle; they value the family tradition,” Decker said. “That family tradition gives them the grit and the fortitude to deal with really challenging circumstances like drought or low prices or whatever the present big challenge is. So, helping them think strategically about how to create the best calf crop is something that will serve them and keep those family farms profitable.”

“Evaluation of Zoetis GeneMax Advantage genomic predictions in commercial Bos taurus Angus cattle” was published in Livestock Science. Co-authors include Brian C. Arisman, Troy N. Rowan, Jordan M. Thomas, Harly J. Durbin, William R. Lamberson and David J. Patterson.

Reprinted with Permission from Drovers

Several Reasons for Slow Herd Expansion

by Derrell Peel - Oklahoma State University, Drovers

The mid-year cattle inventory report confirmed cattle numbers continue to get smaller and there is no significant indication of herd rebuilding so far. Despite sharply higher cattle prices this year, there is no data to suggest heifer retention or enough decrease in beef cow slaughter to initiate herd expansion, although the most recent weekly slaughter data are encouraging. The process thus far is considerably slower than the herd expansion after the drought in 2011-2013 pushed cattle inventories to a cyclical low in 2014. There are several reasons why producers are moving more slowly and cautiously thus far.

Continuing Drought is still an issue in significant regions of cattle country. While drought is not likely causing a great deal of additional herd liquidation from a broader market perspective, it surely is preventing herd expansion in those drought-stricken areas.

Drought Recovery - Pas

tures and ranges in locations recently emerged from drought need time to heal after 2-3 years of drought damage and stress. Hay supplies are depleted and must be replenished. Many regions are still vulnerable to redeveloping drought and there is uncertainty that forage production may remain restricted.

Financial RecoveryMany cattle operations have suffered from considerable financial stress from drought and high input costs. The short run need to realize immediate returns from higher cattle prices may be causing continued heifer and cull cow sales for now.

Input Cost Uncertainty - High, and in many cases record high, input prices were a particular challenge in 2022. Record hay prices and elevated supplemental feed costs have had a huge impact in drought

regions. Record or near-record high fertilizer, chemical and fuel costs have been a significant challenge for producers, especially in regions of introduced pastures. Though some input prices have moderated in 2023, input price uncertainty has producers reacting cautiously to higher cattle prices.

Interest Rates - Not only are inputs costs higher but sharply higher interest rates creates a different economic climate that may temper the pace of herd expansion compared to the 2014-2019 period. Higher finance costs will be a much more significant factor as breeding heifer and cow costs rise in the coming months.

Producer ExpectationsAll of the above factors contribute to the economic backdrop of the industry and become part of the producer expectations that are the key to herd rebuilding. Until enough

cow-calf producers anticipate enough returns for a long enough period of time, herd expansion will be tempered. In the meantime, cattle supplies will continue to tighten. Market prices for calves and feeder cattle will continue to increase as the market provides more price incentives that will eventually strengthen producer expectations and jump-start herd expansion. That process is likely to begin in earnest in the remainder of 2023 and into 2024.

Reprinted with permission from Drovers

BEEF has funds available for educational content at field days and sales. If your event represents multiple breeders and conveys information about our awesome breed, contact BEEF today to see how we can help!

BEEF is currently helping with important research projects related to Carcass Quality and Genetic Merit-Based value determinations (rather than just hide color) for feeder cattle.

2023 Fall Beefmaster Sale & Event Calendar

September 2, 2023 - Anderson Beefmaster Production Sale, Salado, TX

September 9, 2023-Arkansas BBA Razorback Classic Sale, Damascus, AR

September 9, 2023-The Beefmaster Advantage Sale, Giddings, TX

September 12, 2023-Texas Roral Beefmaster Showcase Vol. III Online Sale

September 15, 2023 - Beef on Forage Bull Sale, Arcadia, FL

September 16, 2023-Channarock Farm and Mason Cattle Co Sale, Auburn, KY

September 16, 2023 - ETLBMG Ultrasound Scan Day & Field Day in Nacogdoches, TX

September 23, 2023-Live Oak BBA Fall Perfect Pair Sale, Three Rivers, TX

September 29, 2023 -Diamonds of the Flint Hills Fall Female Sale, Paxico, KS

October 4-5, 2023-Lyssy's All Access Frozen Genetics Sale-DVAuction

October 7, 2023 - ISA Beefmasters 62nd Performance Test and Sale, San Angelo, TX

October 7, 2023-OHOA Fall Roundup Sale, Locust Grove, OK

October 14, 2023-Carr & Others Fall Sale, Floresville, TX

October 20, 2023-Beef on Forage Maternal Collection Registered Female Sale, Brenham, TX

October 21, 2023-Beef on Forage Bull & Commercial Female Sale, Brenahm, TX

October 26-28-Beefmaster Breeders United Annual Convention

October 28, 2023-Red River Beefmaster Bull Sale

November 3, Premium Power Bull Sale, Wauchula, FL

November 4, 2023-Southern Plains Performance Bull Sale, Valliant, OK

November 8-9, 2023-CJ, CF, BF, NG Commitment to Excellence Online Sale

Novmeber 11, 2023-SFA Salabration in the Piney Woods Beefmaster Sale, Nacogdoches, TX

November 18, 2023-Collier Farms Performance Bull Sale, Brenham, TX

Sale Catalogs posted online a few weeks before sale date at www.beefmasters.org/purebred/calendar

Selling 3 Bulls at BEEF ON FORAGE FLORIDA

Arcadia, FL • September 15, 2023

Selling 6 Bulls BEEF ON FORAGE TEXAS

Brenham, TX • October 21, 2023