Genex Beef HORIZONS by GENEX

GENEX

HORIZONS

SPRING 2016 VOLUME 20 / NUMBER 1

Genex

Cooperative, Inc. A Subsidiary of Cooperative Resources International

N O I T A N I B M O C T C E F R T HE P E ™ k PregChec

We are experts in two thingpsre: gnancies g #1 – Creatin g genetic #2 – Providin ment herd improve

Increase conception rates now. Ask Genex how.

ntage a v d A y it il t r e F x e The Gen data-driven try’s only The A.I. indus nking sire fertility ra

Genex

Cooperative, Inc. A Subsidiary of Cooperative Resources International

BEEF HORIZONS SPRING 2016 VOL. 20/NO. 1

Published bi-annually for beef producers in the United States.

H E R E Morgan Johnsrud Jordan Valley, Oregon 541.586.2751 mjohnsrud@crinet.com

T O

S E R V E

Jeff Swenson AVP, U.S. Beef Marketing and Sales Morrill, Nebraska 970.214.8150 jswenson@crinet.com

Y O U

Justin Hergenreder Longmont, Colorado 303.349.5711 jhergenreder@crinet.com

Beau Ochsner Pall Mall, Tennessee 931.879.9576 bochsner@crinet.com

Address correspondence to: Genex Cooperative, Inc. 100 MBC Drive, P.O. Box 469 Shawano, WI 54166 TEL: 888.333.1783 FAX: 715.526.3219 EMAIL: info@crinet.com WEBSITE: www.crinet.com

BEEF HORIZONS STAFF Lindsay Johnson, Editor Brooke Handy, Assistant Editor Andy Graf, Graphic Designer

Dwain Hould Columbus, Montana 406.321.4517 dhould@crinet.com

COVER PHOTO

Kody Graves Eureka, Missouri 940.531.1851 kgraves@crinet.com

Gail Rippe Indianola, Nebraska 308.340.8345 grippe@crinet.com

U.S. Beef Region 6

Photo courtesy of Darcy Sexson, Stanfield, Oregon.

GENEX BOARD OF DIRECTORS Paul Greene, President Berlin, N.Y., 518.658.2419

John Ruedinger, 1st Vice President Van Dyne, Wis., 920.922.9899 Bobby Robertson, 2nd Vice President Tahlequah, Okla., 918.822.0020 Ronald Totten, Secretary Stafford, N.Y., 585.344.0758

Area 625 Area 628 Area 631

Jon Wayne Danielson Cadott, Wis., 715.289.3860

Area 632 Area 633

Patrick Dugan Casa Grande, Ariz., 520.251.6455

Area 634 Area 635

Terry Frost Roundup, Mont., 406.323.3415

GENEX STATEMENT OF PURPOSE

Genex is the trusted provider of world-class animal genetics, progressive reproductive solutions, value-added products and innovative services to members and customers.

Kay Olson-Martz Friendship, Wis., 608.564.7359

Material may not be reproduced in any fashion without Cooperative Resources International’s permission.

contents

Jody Schaap Woodstock, Minn., 507.215.2257

Cooperative Resources International, their member cooperatives, agents or employees, cannot and do not guarantee the conception rate, quality or productivity to be obtained in connection with the use of their products or recommended techniques. THEY MAKE NO WARRANTIES OF ANY KIND WHATSOEVER EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED WHICH EXTENDS BEYOND THE DESCRIPTION OF THE PRODUCTS AND HEREBY DISCLAIM ALL WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. In the unlikely event that any of the products shall be proven to be defective, damages resulting from their use shall be limited to their purchase price.

(11/1/15)

CRI is the global leader delivering excellence, innovation and value to members and customers as a strong cooperative.

Harold House Nokesville, Va., 571.722.3356

Bill Zimmerman Foley, Minn., 320.355.2191

G-10795-15

MISSION STATEMENT

Lamar Gockley Mohnton, Penn., 717.283.5586

Daniel Tetreault Champlain, N.Y., 518.298.8690

4 6 7 8 10 13 14 17 18 20 22

| | | | | | | | | | |

Annual Meeting report Delegates – The Driving Force Behind a Co-op’s Success In the News PregCheck™ – The Genex Fertility Advantage Spring Beef Special The Importance of Synchronization Compliance Feature Sires What Do I Need to Know to Use A.I. on my Ranch? The A.I. Advantage Give Your Calves a Fighting Chance New Acquisition Sires

IN THE NEWS

My Report to the Membership FROM THE ANNUAL MEE TING By Keith Heikes, Chief Operating Officer, Genex

“

A year ago, we talked about the difficult financial year that Genex just finished. We reviewed a number of operational changes that had happened or were underway to correct some of the deficiencies. While not easy, we took the necessary steps to put us in a better profit position. We are pleased to report the changes put in place had the desired effect and Genex had a significant turnaround in its profitability. Our performance in the U.S. market during 2015 was outstanding. Sales reached levels never before attained with dairy GenChoice™ and beef sales leading the way in gains. Resale product sales have had a big effect on sales volume with double-digit growth. Our market share in the U.S. is the highest it has been in over a decade.

S P R I N G 2 016

BEEF HORIZONS

Our performance in the U.S. market during 2015 was outstanding.

”

Staff has worked hard to have the correct structure in place to meet members’ needs, which is not easy given the continually changing demographics of agriculture today and the wide range of producer needs. For several years we have talked about plans for growth in both Jerseys and beef. In 2015, Jerseys again had a strong year, and they continue to gain momentum in 2016. We have staff in place in both marketing and genetics to continue growing the market. In 2015, Jersey sales for the industry topped 10% of total dairy sales, and I believe they will continue to make gains. As late as 2006, industry Jersey sales were less than 6% of the dairy market, but since then Jerseys have had steady growth.

IN THE NEWS

Beef sales for the industry again showed over 20% growth. In fact, there has been more growth in beef unit sales than dairy units since 2012. While that might not seem significant at first glance, remember the dairy industry accounts for around 85% of total units. So comparatively, beef growth has been much larger. We have seen growth in our traditional beef markets along with a continuing growth in the beef into dairy markets. Our international sales team also had a record-breaking year in 2015. Markets around the world continue to desire U.S. dairy and beef genetics. The network of owned businesses and distributors is a powerful group and does a great job of marketing Genex semen. There is no question the weak dollar is having an impact on our business. Farm Systems had a strong year for sales after major restructuring in 2014. This segment is now on solid ground for growth in the milking equipment business as well as having good opportunities with other equipment we handle. We have bundled together more of the equipment we sell, like parlors and separator fans, to gain business. In 2016, we are expanding our supply business into South Dakota, as we service many of the milking installations we have recently built there. At Central Livestock Association, the wild swings in prices caused us to have unpredictable market numbers and, coupled with great pasture conditions for most of the marketing area and low cattle numbers, we simply did not have the volume coming through the markets that we needed. Changes in GENESIS have caused us to take a look at the overall production facility needs for the cooperative. We are in the process of developing a long-term plan for housing

and production needs. Evaluating all of our operations is a multi‑year project and ultimately must align with our sales and marketing needs to fit global demands. During the past year, our beef production sites have undergone some upgrades to allow them to continue serving as semen export facilities. Two-thirds of our beef semen produced is exported, so this step is extremely important for Genex. At our Strafford, Missouri, facility we completed a new isolation and entry barn, and construction of additional laboratory space is currently underway at our Billings, Montana, site. In Mitchell, South Dakota, we will be making some necessary updates later this year. All of these things, plus an investment in staff training and better quality control, has meant we increased production on our beef sires significantly while at the same time increased product quality. There is no question in my mind one of the major challenges we will face in the future is the ability to have qualified staff working for Genex to help you on your farm or ranch. Hiring, retaining and training talent is one of the key points from the CRI strategic plan. For Genex, finding staff to conduct research, collect and process semen, breed cows, build structures, work the livestock markets, and the many other tasks that go on for the 900+ Genex employees is no easy task. We must do everything we can in the talent recruitment and retention areas. Finally, I want to thank you for being a part of Genex. We have and will continue to highly value the input of our delegates and alternates as we make decisions. Cooperatives work because members are involved and care about the organization. 

New Directors Elected to Genex Board Member-owners of Genex have elected three new producers to serve three-year terms on the board of directors for the cattle genetics cooperative. During the elections, held at the Genex annual meeting on January 27, Daniel Tetreault of Champlain, New York; Lamar B. Gockley of Mohnton, Pennsylvania; and Jody Schaap of Woodstock, Minnesota, were named to the 13 member board. In addition, Kay Olson-Martz of Friendship, Wisconsin, and Patrick Dugan of Casa Grande, Arizona, were re-elected to three-year terms. Following the annual meeting, the Genex board elected the following officers for 2016: • • • •

Paul Greene, president John Ruedinger, 1st vice president Bobby Robertson, 2nd vice president Ronald Totten, secretary BEEF HORIZONS

S P R I N G 2016

DELEGATES The Driving Force Behind a Co-op’s Success By Brenda Brady, Communications Specialist, CRI

When I was a kid, I remember my dad going off to lots of meetings. He was on the school board, town board, church council, FFA Alumni, etc. He was also a delegate for several local co-ops (At different times of course. Mom wouldn’t allow him to miss that many milkings!). As I have grown, I have tried to be involved in my local community as well. It wasn’t until we recently started doing business with Genex and AgSource that I even thought much about how a cooperative is run or who makes up the delegate body and boards of directors. Our recent CRI Annual Meeting gave me the perfect opportunity to delve into our leadership and find out more about our delegates, their responsibilities and why they serve their cooperative.

Tell us a little about yourself and your farming/ranching operation.

My name is Scott Erthum, and I am a rancher in the Sandhills region in north central Nebraska. We run over 400 head of commercial black Angus cows in a cow-calf operation. We started utilizing A.I. on the heifers in 1993 and have been impressed with the gains in our replacement heifers and have been doing that ever since. We started with 21st Century Genetics and have been with the co-op since then.

Why did you decide to become a delegate?

When I first became aware of the governance of the co-op, I was interested. At the time, I was one of the few beef guys sitting in a room of dairymen. And, about 20 years younger. We had to stand up and give a speech as to why we should be elected and I did. I was surprised when I was elected, and that experience of going to the meeting made me realize it was important to be involved, provide input when asked and to listen and learn about my cooperative.

What are your duties and responsibilities as a delegate?

The duties and responsibilities of a delegate are fairly easy. You attend the meetings and keep an open mind. You ask questions if they are important, and most importantly, you come to represent those members who elected you to this position. As a long time delegate for Nebraska, a lot of people know me. I have brought concerns of my members to the leadership to be addressed.

S P R I N G 2 016

BEEF HORIZONS

What type of time commitment is required of a delegate?

I give about a week a year for my duties as delegate. Three of those days are for the meetings, three days are for traveling to the meetings and one day is to attend the member appreciation meeting in my area. I usually give a small speech at the member appreciation meeting about why membership is important to all producers who qualify.

“

The co-op can only be as good as the people in it, and being a delegate has been a very rewarding experience for me.

”

As a long-time annual meeting attendee, what has caught your attention?

The biggest thing that has always caught my attention at these annual meetings is how accessible the management of our cooperative is. Senior management is present and have been open to hear comments and answer questions about topics and issues that we face. I also like being able to talk to the beef procurement people about new bulls and, of course, talking to producers from across the country.

What would you tell someone who may be considering getting involved in the governance of their cooperative? I would tell them that if they have any interest in it to ask questions first. Make sure you have the time to make the meetings. Don’t be afraid to talk to people in the cooperative and to bring local concerns up at the meetings. The co-op can only be as good as the people in it, and being a delegate has been a very rewarding experience for me. 

IN THE NEWS

APPLY FOR THE CRI COLLEGIATE SCHOLARSHIP Youth attending a four‑year college/ university or two‑year technical college in fall 2016 and pursuing a degree in an agricultural field can apply for the CRI Collegiate Scholarship. Applicants must also be affiliated with a member of a CRI cooperative subsidiary (AgSource Cooperative Services or Genex Cooperative, Inc.) by having an active role on the member’s dairy or ranch. CRI provides a minimum of four $750 scholarships annually. For full eligibility information and the scholarship application, visit bit.ly/CRIscholarship. 

RIPPE HONORED WITH MISSION AWARD Beef Area Marketing Manager | Indianola, Nebraska Gail Rippe joined Genex in December 2013 and quickly earned his current role as Beef Area Marketing Manager in the fall of 2014. Gail continuously works on improving his area through recruiting, training and developing Independent Contractors. He is well respected for his professionalism and knowledge of the A.I. industry. Gail serves Genex members and customers in Nebraska and Iowa. According to Associate Vice President of U.S. Beef Marketing and Sales, Jeff Swenson, “Gail really exemplifies the mission. In the short time he’s worked here, he’s gained a tremendous amount of respect from his Independent Contractors and our members and customers. They know Gail’s someone they can really trust.” Other Genex Mission Award winners include Peter Lauthen, Hawley, Minnesota, and Jeff Jahnke, Abrahms, Wisconsin. 

GILBERT NAMED TO NAAB BOARD OF DIRECTORS Glen Gilbert, Genex Vice President of Production, was elected to a three-year term on the National Association of Animal Breeders (NAAB) board of directors. The NAAB is the national trade association for cattle artificial insemination businesses. Gilbert is a 38-year veteran of the artificial insemination industry. All 38 years have been spent serving the members of Genex and predecessors. As the Vice President of Production, Gilbert oversees care of the cooperative’s dairy and beef cattle as well as semen laboratory operations. 

NOTICE OF GENEX EQUITY REDEMPTION The board of directors has authorized the retirement of Genex equity for 1994 to 2001. For active Genex members, the equity retirement will appear as a credit on your billing. There are no tax implications on this retirement. All equity redemptions have been from qualified issuances with taxes paid at the time of their allocation. This is the official public notice of this retirement and former members must notify Genex headquarters for redemption of their equity. The board reserves the right to suspend redemption if cash flow needs of the cooperative are impaired. If you have any questions, contact Genex Equity Specialist Candie Fisher at 715.526.7657. 

GENEX

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“Cow Sense

Science”

This is a great source for information on what is happening at Genex that pertains to beef. Information ranges anywhere from new bull photos to new sire acquisitions to anything happening at Genex. We invite you to learn more and stay connected with us! ©2016 CRI

To sign up, scan the QR code or visit http://bit.ly/cow-sense

The A .I. industr y's only data‑driven sire fertility ranking

PregCheckantage ™

dv The Genex Fertility A

Making the Right Choice

SIRE A

compared to

PregCheck

™

100

SIRE B PregCheck

™

102

INCREASE

It’s that time of year again. Last year’s heifer calf crop has matured and looks great. Now, it’s time to choose a mating sire. The sire options are endless. As you study the Beef Genetic Management Guide, you narrow your selection down to two bulls. Both offer calving ease and are of the same genetic merit. Now for the tough choice, or maybe it’s not that tough. You notice Sire A has a PregCheck of 100 while Sire B has a PregCheck of 102. What does that mean again? Oh yeah, Sire B averages a 2% higher conception rate. Imagine that, 2% more pregnancies by using a sire with known fertility. The choice is made. Sire B it is.

Conception Rate on average

S P R I N G 2 016

To learn more about PregCheck visit http://bit.ly/BeefPregCheckVideo

BEEF HORIZONS

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Cows are inseminated to Genex sires

Tested for pregnancy

On-farm breeding and pregnancy data is transferred to the Genex database

PregCheck Fertility Evaluation PregCheck

Reliability

1AN01274 VANGUARD

105

93%

1AN01300 INVESTMENT

105

73%

1AN01214 WALKER

104

97%

1AN01259 FINAL ANSWER II

103

87%

1AN01117 THUNDER

102

93%

1AN01195 IMPRINT

102

94%

1AN01278 DOUBLE VISION

102

85%

1AN01298 SUB-ZERO

102

79%

1AN01224 CEDAR RIDGE

101

82%

1AN01275 PROSPER

101

74%

1AN01302 WESTERN CUT

101

70%

1AN01339 SITZ LOGIC

101

75%

1AN01202 LONG DISTANCE

100

86%

1AN01215 IRISH

100

85%

1AN01231 AUTHENTIC

100

74%

1AN01242 FULL POWER

100

95%

1AN01212 SETTLER

73%

1AN01222 PRIORITY

75%

1AN01240 EFFECTIVE

90%

1AN01247 DILLON

93%

1AN01313 INSIGHT

76%

1AN01131 BISMARCK

95%

1AN01190 RESUME

91%

1AN01265 GOLD RUSH

96%

1AN01299 FORTITUDE

88%

1AN01230 EXCITEMENT

82%

1AN01244 DECLARATION

71%

1AN01316 MCCOY

78%

1AN01217 IN SURE

86%

1AN01238 RESOURCE

72%

1AN01249 SOLUTION

86%

1AN01237 ANGUS VALLEY

79%

ANGUS

SIMMENTAL 1SM00121 UPGRADE

105

97%

1SM00094 IN DEW TIME

104

83%

1SM00147 SIGNATURE

100

81%

SIMANGUS™

luations a v e y it il rt fe k c e h C g Pre six weeks. to r u fo ry e v e n ru re a

1SM00114 TUITION

105

89%

1SM00126 TOP GRADE

105

97%

1SM00125 GRADUATE

100

95%

1SM00124 GW PREMIUM BEEF

84%

PregCheck rankings as of 2/16/16

BEEF HORIZONS

S P R I N G 2016

SPRING BEEF SPECIAL

Reg# 17016630

1AN01237 ANGUS VALLEY

$ 25 Now

PregCheck™

$ 20

Reg# 17179119

$ 25 Now

1AN01300 INVESTMENT

PregCheck™

79% Reliability

Reg# 17082311

1AN01371 COMMANDO

$ 30 Now

$ 25

$ 25 Now

$ 20

$ 22 Now

1AN01337 INNOVATION

S P R I N G 2 016

BEEF HORIZONS

$ 18

Reg# 16455862

1AN01202 LONG DISTANCE

$ 22 Now

PregCheck™ 10

105

73% Reliability

Reg# 16983331

Reg# 17383988

1AN01360 ELEMENT

$ 20

$ 18

100

86% Reliability

Spring Beef Special prices can be combined with the Volume Special. Utilize with the John Deere Financial beef deferral program offering 180 days with no interest and no payments. Contact your Genex representative or visit profitshop.crinet.com for current availability.

SPECIAL ENDS MAY 31, 2O16

Reg# 1683223

1AR00957 PROFITBUILDER

$ 25 Now

$ 20

Reg# 1535025

1AR00958 MERLIN 937Z

$ 20 Now

Reg# 43214415

1HP00846 TRUST

$ 20 Now

$ 18

Reg# 43092364

1HH00109 SENSATION

$ 25 Now

Reg# 2703910

1SM00153 COWBOY CUT

$ 30 Now

$ 25

$ 18

$ 20

Reg# 2628568

1SM00155 NIGHTRIDE

$ 25 Now

BEEF HORIZONS

$ 20

S P R I N G 2016

THE IMPORTANCE OF

SYNCHRONIZATION COMPLIANCE By Sarah Thorson, Beef Education Instructor, Genex

Female nutrition, working facilities and even the weather can have a significant impact on the success of a synchronization program. While some of those factors can be controlled by the producer, others cannot. One of the biggest factors in determining the success of a synchronization program, however, can be controlled entirely by you. That factor is compliance. How can you ensure synchronization compliance on your ranch?

The first step is to choose a synchronization protocol that is proven to work. Each year the Beef Reproduction Task Force reviews new research regarding female fertility and synchronization and publishes a list of recommended synchronization protocols. The recommended protocols for 2016 are printed on pages 84 and 85 of the Beef Genetic Management Guide. In short, the Beef Reproduction Task Force does the research so you don’t have to.

When choosing a protocol for your ranch, also ask yourself the following questions: • How many times am I willing to put the female through the chute? • How much am I willing to spend on synchronization drugs? • What are my expectations for results?

Choosing a protocol that aligns with your goals and expectations can help set the tone for compliance throughout the program.

The next step is to follow the chosen protocol. Synchronization compliance means the right cow, gets the right shot (or CIDR insertion/removal, MGA, etc), on the right day or at the right hour. Therefore, when planning your synchronization project be sure to avoid dates and times that do not work in your schedule. If the weather doesn’t cooperate, put your rain poncho or Carhartts® on and keep going with the protocol. Following the chosen protocol also means utilizing proper dosage and handling of the synchronization drugs. If the GnRH needs to be refrigerated, make sure to store it under proper temperature conditions. Ensure the administered dosage is what is recommended by the drug manufacturer. The GnRH and PGF2∝ injections should be given deep in the muscle for maximum efficacy. I recommend 1.5 inch, 16 gauge needles. Calculate how much GnRH, PGF2∝, CIDRS and/or MGA is needed for the project and make sure to have enough on hand. I recommend having a few extra doses of everything on hand in case of emergencies.

The final step in synchronization compliance is to educate everyone who will be helping with the synchronization project. If all your employees understand why each step of the program is important and why timing is crucial to its success, then there will be more buy-in and employees will take ownership of the program.

Non-compliance to a synchronization protocol is one of the biggest reasons why synchronization fails. However, by taking the time to choose a protocol that aligns with your goals, properly following the protocol and educating all involved, you can attain a significant boost in conception rates. 

BEEF HORIZONS

S P R I N G 2016

FEATURE SIRES These sires exemplify the Genex philosophy of combining “Cow Sense and Science” and will be the next influential sires in the industry. Don’t miss out on an opportunity to use these genetics in your herd; contact your local Genex representative today.

1AN01371 Commando

CED BW WW YW DOC MILK MARB 18 -1.8 66 117 17 .50 .64 .52 .48 .50

25 0.93 0.92 75.44 157.28 .24 .39 .35

Reg. No. 17082311 | EF Complement 8088 x B/R Ambush 28

Commando offers an unmatched combination of traits that drive producer profitability, both phenotypically and genetically. He provides no miss calving ease, breed-leading growth and average MILK EPD in a moderate mature‑sized package. Progeny are attractive, wide‑bodied and big-hipped with sound feet and super dispositions. Few bulls can match his combination of CE, $W and $B along with the pedigree flexibility he provides.

1AN01372 Confidence Plus

CED BW WW YW DOC MILK MARB RE

15 -1.5 59 113 24 21 0.67 1.14 59.95 148.34 .57 .72 .60 .53 .54 .24 .38 .34

Reg. No. 17585576 | Connealy Confidence 0100 x Connealy Consensus

Confidence Plus progeny are big-ribbed, soft-made and super correct. In addition to transmitting a cow maker phenotype, he ranks in the top 20% of the breed for both $W and $B. His unique combination of calving ease and muscle, while excelling for key traits like DOC and HPG, makes him one of the most promising semi‑proven bulls in the breed.

1AN01355 Altitude

CED BW WW YW DOC MILK MARB 14 -1.7 49 .37 .43 .33

89 .35

24 .31

24 0.55 0.21 59.27 80.39 .16 .31 .24

Reg. No. 17877778 | Connealy Comrade 1385 x S A V 004 Density 4336

A low PAP score of 38 at 7500 feet makes Altitude an appropriate name. However, this bull offers so much more. He is a phenotypically perfect package with the potential to be a calving ease sire, and a maternal pedigree that allows mating flexibility.

Angus EPDs as of 2/26/16.

S P R I N G 2 016

PregCheck rankings as of 2/16/16.

BEEF HORIZONS

FEATURE SIRES

1AN01348 Justified

CED BW WW YW DOC MILK MARB 13 -1.9 65 110 12 .37 .44 .33 .35 .25

30 0.66 0.46 83.05 104.45 .19 .32 .24

Reg. No. 17707279 | Connealy Judgment x Sitz Wisdom 481T

Justified is a double-digit calving ease, Consensus 7229 influenced bull that combines tremendous rib shape, muscle expression and performance with a balanced, no holes EPD tabulation. He has high profit potential for commercial customers with his breed-leading $W and outcross pedigree that provides unlimited mating flexibility.

1AN01240 Effective

PregCheck™

90% Reliability

CED BW WW YW DOC MILK MARB 13 -2.7 47 .72 .85 .78

88 .70

24 .62

26 0.81 0.60 61.50 96.00 .32 .48 .42

Reg. No. 17065105 CAR Efficient 534 x S A V Final Answer 0035

Effective is a customer satisfaction bull! Progeny are born easy, vigorous at birth and “made right”. He mates well on many different breeds and types of females, while progeny are working throughout the world – the sign of a truly great sire! Now proven through the Genex PregCheck system, which quantifies sire semen fertility with actual breeding results, you can rest assured; Effective semen will perform in cows and make pregnancies

1SM00153 Cowboy Cut

CED BW WW

MM DOC

REA

API

8.9 1.6 93.6 125.3 14.6 15.2 0.78 1.00 175.8 100.5 .56 .85 .81 .77 .33 .63 .45 .37

Reg. No. 2703910 | Triple C Singletary S3H x HTP SVF In Dew Time

The most complete phenotypic and genotypic package to become proven in 2015! Cowboy Cut is destined to become the number one registration bull of the breed in the near future. He adds structural integrity with an unsurpassed EPD package and offers flexibility with a wide variety of matings.

BEEF HORIZONS

S P R I N G 2016

FEATURE SIRES

These sires exemplify the Genex philosophy of combining “Cow Sense and Science” and will be the next influential sires in the industry. Don’t miss out on an opportunity to use these genetics in your herd; contact your local Genex representative today.

1AR00958 Merlin 937Z

GM CED BW WW YW MILK MARB

158 52

17 -6.5 53 .42 .67 .58

85 .58

20 .29

REA

0.58 0.27 .49 .46

Reg. No. 1535025 | LJC Merlin T179 x TR Julian ST630

The commercial calving ease sire of the next generation, Merlin 937Z offers a no holes EPD profile, maternal pedigree and functional phenotype. Admired by cattlemen for his foot quality and depth of body, look to this grandson of the great Mission Statement to sire productive, long-lived females.

1AR00957 Profitbuilder

GM CED BW WW YW MILK MARB

223 56 .30

15 -4.3 78 128 .41 .35 .35 .26

22 .03

REA

1.17 0.31 .22 .25

Reg. No. 1683223 | LSF Takeover 9943W x Beckton Nebula P P707

In elite company, Profitbuilder is one of few bulls in the breed with his combination of HerdBuilder and GridMaster index power. Phenotypically striking and structured for the long haul, Profitbuilder is ideal to sire long-lived females and high-selling bulls.

1HP00847 Access

CED BW WW YW MILK REA MARB $BMI $CHB 6.0 0.2 .30 .64

53 .52

93 .49

25 0.29 0.54 .14 .31 .27

Reg. No. 43379349 | SHF Literal W18 Y90 x Loewen M326 SIR 33T

One of the most talked about young Hereford sires because of his outcross pedigree, flawless phenotype and truly unmatched EPD profile. He ranks in the top 5% of the breed for calving ease and low birth weight, while still ranking in the top 5% of the breed for all four indexes! Imagine the mating possibilities; ideal for Revolution, Legend, Victor 719T and Sensation daughters.

S P R I N G 2 016

BEEF HORIZONS

WHAT DO I NEED TO KNOW TO USE A.I. ON MY RANCH?

By Stan Lock, Beef Large Herd Development Manager, Genex

I’ve worked with beef producers for over 30 years now. Throughout those years, I’ve realized producers considering artificial insemination (A.I.) for the first time tend to ask many of the same questions – and they are great questions! In case you happen to be considering A.I. and Genex chute-side service, I’d like to answer these most frequently asked questions for you too.

1. What is the cost per pregnancy?

To answer this question, your Genex representative sits down with you. Together, you fill out a synchronization planner. The planner helps to estimate the herd’s expected conception and pregnancy rates for A.I. This information is also included in a written proposal provided to you. Generally, the cost per pregnancy is probably going to run about $60 to $70 per head, but it can be less. If you compare this to the cost of a natural service sire, it’s cheaper than purchasing a bull, maintaining him and using him for three years.

2. How much extra work will I need to do?

With Genex chute-side service, we try to make it easy. In most cases, you are responsible for cattle handling and synchronization. The amount of time and labor involved is dependent on the synchronization program that is chosen. On breeding day, you are responsible for getting cattle to the alleyway, and Genex does the rest!

3. How do I go about choosing A.I. sires?

Your Genex representative is an excellent resource. He or she can provide recommendations based on the goals you have for your herd.

4. If you breed my cattle all in one day will they calve all in one day?

Animals that are bred in one day generally calve out over a 10 to 14 day period. University studies show that no more than 20% will calve on any one day.

5. How many natural service clean-up bulls are needed after synchronization and A.I.?

This is a tricky question, as the answer depends on variables such as the age of the natural service sires, size of pastures and terrain. Since the number of clean-up bulls will vary between operations, your Genex representative will consult with you to help determine the appropriate number for your individual situation.

If you have further questions on beef A.I. and Genex chute-side service, please email me at slock@crinet.com or contact your local Genex representative. To locate a Genex representative near you, call or email Genex customer service at 888.333.1783 or info@crinet.com. 

BEEF HORIZONS

S P R I N G 2016

THE A.I. ADVANTAGE A.I. VS. THE BULL By Sarah Thorson, Beef Education Manager, Genex

VS. What if I told you there was a way to improve your herd genetics, shorten your calving season, produce a more consistent calf crop and increase marketing opportunities by making one management change? Some would be skeptical, but with artificial insemination (A.I.) you can do just that. When a producer is considering A.I. for the first time, cost becomes the biggest question (more on that later), but I would challenge you to also think of the financial advantages of genetic gain from using a proven sire. One of the biggest advantages of A.I. is the opportunity to capture genetics from top, proven bulls. When you buy a yearling bull to turn out with your heifers, you hope he sires calving ease. You use EPDs, the animal’s own performance data, and physical appearance to make your best guess. However, we have all heard horror stories about someone who bought a young bull they thought would have calving ease and found out otherwise. Or what about the bull that was supposed to have a weaning weight EPD of 60, but it turned out to be 40? Using proven bulls ensures you actually get what you expect. Another advantage of synchronization and fixed-time A.I. is the ability to have more calves born earlier in the calving season. At the University of Missouri Thompson Farm*, calf crop distribution was analyzed for the first 46 days over

11 calving seasons. There were three years of natural service breeding that included 526 calvings, two years of fixed-time A.I. with 585 calvings, and five years of estrus detection and A.I. with 1,040 calvings. On day 16 of the calving season, 38% of natural service cows had calved, 54% of the estrus detection and A.I. cows had calved, and 62% of the fixed-time A.I. cows had calved. By day 21 of the calving season those numbers were 51%, 59% and 66% respectively. When you consider a calf will gain two to three pounds per day, calves born earlier in the season add significantly more dollars to your pocket. In addition to heavier calves, a shortened calving season and a large numbers of calves sired by the same bull will result in a uniform calf crop. We all know this is more attractive to calf buyers. Now back to the question, “What is this all going to cost me?” Calf prices fell dramatically last fall, however early bull sale reports indicate the price of bulls has not dropped as far or as fast, with many sales averaging within a few hundred dollars of last year’s record high prices. In fact, I believe, it may be more cost effective to A.I. this year than ever before. When you add that to all the economic advantages of A.I., you have a recipe for success during a downturn in the cattle market.  *Taken from Control of Estrus and Ovulation in Beef Cows by D.J. Patterson, J.M. Thomas, B.E. Bishop, J.M. Abel, J.E. Decker, and M.F. Smith, presented at the 2015 Applied Reproductive Strategies in Beef Cattle Conference.

ADVANTAGES OF ARTIFICIAL INSEMINATION: • Increased Marketing Opportunities • Shorter Calving Period • Consistent Calf Crop 18

S P R I N G 2 016

BEEF HORIZONS

Just how cost effective is A.I.?

At Genex, our field staff use a spreadsheet called A.I. vs. the Bull. It allows them to compare a customer’s inputs for natural service and A.I. to determine what each pregnancy costs them. Call your Genex representative to help you run your numbers and find out how cost effective A.I. is for your operation.

SCENARIO A

A.I.

VS.

SCENARIO B

(Approximate A.I. cost for 100 virgin heifers.)

Synchronization Drug Costs Per Female

Using the 14-day Co-Synch + CIDR® protocol: 1 injection of GnRH = $2.00 1 injection of PGF2∝ = $2.75 1 CIDR® = $11

$15.

Additional Labor & Arm Service Per Female

$10.

Bull Purchase Price

*Average price, FY 2016 Year to date, reported to the American Angus Association, January 2016, Angus Journal, page 180

Semen Cost Per Straw

Using 1AN01202 LONG DISTANCE: Spring Special Price: $18 with 100 unit volume discount

$15.

Total A.I. Cost for 100 Heifers

$4,105. ÷ 58

(Total A.I. Cost/number of live calves – 58) 100 heifers bred with a 65% A.I. conception rate and weaning percentage of 90.

$69.

Includes pasture, feed, mineral, vaccinations, yearly breeding soundness exam, pour-on, damage to property, interest, etc.

Annual Depreciation

$41.05

Total Cost Per Live A.I. Calf

Annual Bull Maintenance Cost

Assume salvage value of $1,900 with a useful life of 4 years.

Total Cost Per Female Exposed

THE BULL

x 100

Total Bull Cost Per Year

(Annual Bull Maintenance Cost + Annual Depreciation)

Total Cost Per Live Calf

(Total bull cost per year/number of live calves – 27) Bull is exposed to 30 cows/year with a weaning percentage of 90.

- $1,900

$6,070.00* ÷ 4 $900.00 +

$1,042.50 $1,942.50 ÷ 27

$71.94

ADVANTAGE TO USING A.I. – SAVING $2.36 PER CALF HAVE QUESTIONS? WE ARE HERE TO HELP!

Contact your local Genex representative to find out why A.I. makes sense for your herd.

BEEF HORIZONS

S P R I N G 2016

GIVE YOUR CALVES A FIGHTING CHANCE By Kenzie Smith, Resale Product Advisor, Genex

There is nothing more valuable for a newborn calf than high quality colostrum. With the cost of production animals high, replacing a lost calf can be devastating. This makes it essential for calves to get a healthy start. Genex has two simple yet extremely effective products, Push™ and Genesis colostrum, to help when you have calves in need of a little extra care. Newborn calves are born with no circulating antibodies, and it is only by transferring the mother’s antibodies via high quality colostrum that the newborn calf can have a ready source of antibodies to fight diseases. While we often talk about newborn calves needing antibodies, they also require a large dose of energy from that first colostrum feeding. Therefore, by consuming colostrum the calf not only receives the needed antibodies but the energy to get the immune system up and running.

S P R I N G 2 016

BEEF HORIZONS

CALF NUTRITIONAL PASTE

GENESIS COLOSTRUM H A N D L E YO U R C A LV E S W I T H C A R E .

What is Push? Push is a blend of highly digestible proteins and energy components developed to help calves overcome stress, disease challenges and low energy reserves. It is a readily available source of globulin proteins and milkfat from colostrum and contains the natural fatty acids found in colostral fat, giving the calf a boost of energy. These fatty acids are designed by nature to help the calf thrive on its own. In addition, Push contains naturally found colostrum components (peptides and cytokines) that help prime the immune system beyond just the globulin proteins. By combining high levels of fat and proteins, the calf can have a balanced blend of these two key colostrum components immediately following birth. Why use Push? Push is recommended for newborn calves to provide them with a burst of energy. This easy-to-administer energy source is also especially useful if the calf is not suckling. By giving Push at birth the benefits can be seen sooner rather than later. Push does not replace colostrum, colostrum replacers or supplements. However, the specialized formula is complementary to colostrum, so Push can be used along with it. Push can be used at birth to further enhance the benefits of colostrum feeding.

As mentioned previously, Push does not replace colostrum. When you are in need of a colostrum replacer, Genex has you covered. We are happy to offer Genesis colostrum products to our members and customers. Genesis 150 Colostrum Replacer can be fed instead of maternal colostrum, when colostrum is unavailable or is of questionable quality. Genesis 150 provides everything the newborn calf needs in just one feeding, so the second feeding can be colostrum, milk or milk replacer. The Genesis 150 Colostrum Replacer provides 150 grams of globulin proteins, which are essential to newborn calves and can only be absorbed shortly after birth. The Genesis colostrum products are formulated to provide complete nutrition; our formula is 45% protein and 20% fat to help your calf get the best start to life. Genesis 150 Colostrum Replacer is available in Perfect Udder ® packaging which makes colostrum feeding both fast and easy. Genesis colostrum products can easily be added to any calf program to encourage protocol adherence and maintain biosecurity: • FAST: With only three steps and a quick dissolving formula, you can feed it to the calf in minutes! • EASY: With a premeasured dose of colostrum replacer already inside and a fill window on the back, mixing couldn’t be easier.

When to use Push? Any newborn calf can benefit from Push. However, it’s especially advantageous in the examples below:

• CLEAN: Disposable packaging helps minimize opportunity for bacterial contamination and disease transfer between calves.

• When a calf is not consuming colostrum immediately following birth. • When the mother is not accepting the calf right away.

• SAFE: Genesis colostrum products utilize first milking colostrum that is carefully collected and pasteurized to help ensure the integrity of the finished product.

• When a calf is born in harsh weather conditions. • When a calf is scouring, not eating and losing weight. • When a calf seems depressed and has little interest in standing within the first hour of life. While Push is beneficial to newborn calves, benefits extend beyond the period immediately following birth. Have a calf that is depressed, not eating, coming off a disease, transported any distance or just needs a push? Then Push was designed for them too! ©2016 CRI

Genesis colostrum products are also available in a supplement dose of 50 grams of globulin proteins and in a multi-dose pail that can be used as either a supplement to or a replacer of maternal colostrum. Contact your Genex representative for more information regarding Push or Genesis colostrum products. 

Perfect Udder® is a registered trademark of Dairy Tech Inc. Genesis is a trademark of Provimi North America, Inc.

BEEF HORIZONS

S P R I N G 2016

NEW ACQUISITIONS 1AN01375 SITZ

REINVESTED 636A Reg. No. 17467126 Baldridge Kaboom K243 KCF Connealy Thunder Parka of Conanga 241 Sitz Upward 307R Sitz Ellunas Elite 656T Sitz Ellunas Elite 35M Sitz Ellunas Elite 656T, Dam

Reinvested is a multi-herd, progeny proven, calving ease son of Thunder. He sires moderate-framed, big-ribbed, soft-made females with a broody look. He offers a bigger BW to YW spread than his sire and is a maternal brother to Investment. He offers large heifer projects reliable calving ease, calf vigor, outstanding early performance and quality replacement females. An ideal mating on Final Answer, Bismarck and Continental-influenced females. CED

15 -2.5 55 107 .64 .78 .69 .62

1AN01376 PRAIRIE PRIDE

PREMIUM 407

15%

15 -1.2 61 114 .27 .36 .44 .34 .36 .32

3% 10% 15% 10%

SCR DOC HPG CEM MILK MW

1.02 6 18.8 15 .38 .30 .16 .13

10%

1AN01379 Schiefelbein

23 .21

41 .30

$EN

1.43 23 .39 .33

10% 15% 10% 10%

15% 15%

S P R I N G 2 016

9.9 .14

11 .11

29 .17

20 .28

HPG

26 .68

16.4 .25

10%

CEM MILK

15 .20

27 .26

25%

FAT

15%

10%

15%

BEEF HORIZONS

38 .29

MARB

0.61 .38

FAT

20%

25%

0.43 0.062 62.65 62.08 27.93 114.17 .34 .36

Reg. No. 18135857

Lonesome Dove is a low birth weight, high-indexing son of Western Cut. He records a modest birth weight ratio of 78, with weaning and yearling ratios of 112 and 107 respectively, and IMF and REA ratios of 110 and 102. Lonesome Dove is big-ribbed and wide-based with an ideal hip and hind leg, great feet and quiet disposition that will make high quality replacement females. CED BW WW YW RADG

13 -1.8 58 103 .22 .36 .43 .33 .35 .28

SCR DOC HPG CEM MILK MW

.21 .46

10% 5% 25% 25%

23 .31

1.7 .13

15%

14 .08

30 .15

10%

-1 .27

$EN

CW MARB

FAT

25%

RELIABULL 5048 34

Reg. No. 18215436

Connealy Confidence 0100 Varilek Confidence 3004 0 Varilek RS Bess 1015 189

Sitz Upward 307R Frosty Upward 1100 Frosty ND 1407 O297

Varilek Aberdeen 0036 Varilek Lady 3153 369 Varilek Lady 389 7254

CW MARB

FAT

25%

10%

.2 -15.21 37 0.39 0.63 0.033 77.09 59.19 26.73 116.08 .14 .17 .31 .24 .29

Rito 707 of Ideal 3407 7075 S A V Renown 3439 S A V Blackcap May 4136

A potential calving ease sire who checks all the boxes. WW Ratio 105, YW Ratio 104, IMF Ratio 103, REA Ratio 107. He has top-ranking EPDs and a 39.5 cm. scrotal measurement. Inspection of his dam showed a young, but sound, three-year-old with a beautiful udder and good feet. Reliabull is definitely a bull worth sampling in heifer programs. $G

CED BW WW YW RADG

10% 15% 15% 10%

.3 -19.58 60 0.52 0.63 0.041 82.66 77.07 25.99 166.51 .15 .17 .30 .23 .28 3%

S A V Solid Gold 9187 KLA Farasan 27 Vin-Mar Farasan 6209

Reg. No. 18270192

20% 15%

$EN

.4 -17.58 .26

Connealy Freight Train L A Polly 827 L A Polly 565

15%

$EN

30 .39

LONESOME DOVE 54

1AN01380 VARILEK

D R Sierra Cut 7404 Connealy Western Cut Eura Elga of Conanga 9109

CW MARB

iBULL 3415

SCR DOC HPG CEM MILK MW

12 -.9 66 113 .22 .29 .37 .30 .32 .30

DOC

Sitz Upward 307R Plattemere Weigh Up K360 Barbara of Plattemere 337

The Renown son the breed has been searching for! iBull is a standout for body width and muscle thickness, yet offers a lower birth weight option. He has calving ease potential, anchored by excellent i50K results and five generations of double-digit CED Schiefelbein females. Now’s the time to incorporate the powerful genetics of this prototypical Cow Sense & Science sire! CED BW WW YW RADG

SCR

1.13 .67

Reg. No. 18083395

.5 -13.98 47 0.49 0.53 0.013 64.25 75.64 29.71 140.26 .18 .18 .32 .25 .30

25%

.22 .43

1AN01378 KLA

Premium is a calving ease son of Weigh Up, out of a maternally-bred young female, and provides exciting mating opportunities with explosive growth. I50K has identified him as a bull that ranks in the top 3% for HPG while excelling for $W and $B. Premium is stout and soggy with added muscle shape and ideal structure. CED BW WW YW RADG

RADG

13 -.8 62 114 .27 .33 .42 .30 .33 .28

10%

SCR DOC HPG CEM MILK MW

.26 .33

18 15.4 13 .25 .13 .07

25%

15%

10%

25 .14

16 .26

$EN

CW MARB

FAT

10%

.2 -12.94 38 0.93 1.04 0.029 71.72 84.14 48.17 149.57 .13 .16 .30 .23 .28 10%

1AR00962 LSF SRR

ELITE 5356C

Reg. No. 1744885

Beckton Nebula P P707 Brown Premier X7876 Brown Ms Destination T7664 Basin EXT 7455 SRR Chris 957-673 SRR Chris 673-248

This powerfully constructed young sire does so many things well from his excellent CED/BW to a stout YW EPD, but what really makes him unique is his excellent maternal EPD traits. Elite sports EPDs for HPG, CEM and STAY all in the top 10% of the breed or better with a moderate MILK EPD that’s ideal for many environments! Not to be overlooked is the end product merit he offers – breed‑leading MARB, CW and GM index makes Elite a well-rounded genetic package. HB

181

1SM00158 WINC

LIVE AMMO 420B

CED

7 .29

79 .36

131 .30

20%

-3.4 .43

MILK

20 .21

Reg. No. 2885552

4 .21

HPG

CEM

STAY

MARB

10%

14 .25

8 .34

16 .41

0.78 .28

0.22 .21

43 .27

REA

FAT

-0.05 0.01 .22 .25

Black, Polled Test pending for Red Charlie (the unique red coat color allele Lock N Load carries)

Remington On Target 2S Remington Lock N Load54U BAR15 Miss Knight78E-51G R&R Warehouse K609 RCFS Sweet Treat Triple C Beauty J31C

A bull most like his sire, Lock N Load, Live Ammo was a pleasant find in the herd inspections of summer 2015. He is a very athletic and thick bull that’s marked similar to his sire, but most importantly, he’s an excellent semen producer. Be sure to watch his video on the website.

CED

9.0 .22

1SM00159 BCLR

WIDE LOAD C21-3

1.5 .36

ADG

25%

69.7 119.7 0.31 .32 .36 .36

MCE

9.1 .20

18.6 .21

Reg. No. 3071312

MWW

53.4 .24

STAY

DOC

10.5 .15

10%

REA

SHR

API

44.0 -0.42 -0.10 -0.034 1.45 -0.30 113.4 67.8 .29 .18 .19 .20 .17 .08 1%

S D S Graduate 006X CCR Wide Range 9005A CCR Ms Apple 9332W

Homozygous Black, Homozygous Polled

HSF High Roller 12T WS Mother LodeE W21 WS Miss Beefway T7

The Genex pick of the Bichler Simmentals’ sale due to his potential calving ease and maternal strength of dam. His High Roller dam is viewed as one of the very best cows in the northern plains. Wide Load is unique to many Genex Simmental pedigrees, providing mating flexibility. He has already entered stud so semen may be available early this spring. CED

1GV00015 LAZY TV

CHOICE CUT A687

13.1 .20

-1.6 .23

15%

69.4 106.8 0.23 .21 .20 .20

ADG

12.9 .15

MCE

29.1 .15

MWW

25%

20%

15%

10%

Reg. No. AMGV1254750

63.8 .17

STAY

DOC

12.7 .10

REA

SHR

API

25%

31.0 -0.20 0.40 0.006 0.93 -0.41 157.8 81.7 .17 .16 .21 .19 .19 .07

20%

Sam Spade 02S Lazy TV Sam U451 Lazy TV MS FULLBACK L643 VVFG Flying H Exclusive Lazy TV Ms Exclusive U109 Lazy TV Ms Bethoven S382

A high-end combination of top 1% Calving Ease, Marbling and Ribeye Area. Use Choice Cut to add heterosis while maintaining reasonable birth weights and excellent carcass quality. Used heavily within the Gelbvieh breed because of his combination of high fertility and economically relevant traits. CED

17 0.39

-1.7 0.45

10%

68 0.4

100 0.44

MILK

CEM

14 0.28

11 0.18

STAY

12 0.03

-0.77 0.31

15%

10%

37 0.29

26 0.35

REA

1.09 0.31 1%

FPI

0.45 88.68 0.54

BEEF HORIZONS

S P R I N G 2016

Genex Cooperative, Inc.

PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID STEVENS POINT WI PERMIT NO. 272

P.O. Box 469 Shawano, WI 54166

CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTED

NO MATTER WHERE YOU ARE,

Product of the U.S.A.

B-11622-16