Fall 2014 Frontline Beef Producer by International Brangus Breeders Association

FRONTLINE

A NEWS SOURCE FOR COMMERCIAL BEEF PRODUCERS

FALL 2014

VOLUME 6

ISSUE 2

beef producer

FRONTLINE Beef Producer 1

Your SOURCE for Top Quality Registered & Commercial Brangus Cattle

Proud Members of

Circle Land & Cattle Co., Ltd. Bobcat Bottoms Ranch • Persimmon Creek Ranch • Camp Cooley Spring Valley Ranch • Windy Hill Ranch • Vista Ridge Ranch 2 FRONTLINE Beef Producer

located just off Hwy. 6 and OSR P.O. Box 4747 • Bryan, Texas 77805 Office: (979) 776-5760 • Fax: (979) 776-4818 Website: www.circlexbrangus.com Steve Densmore, Cattle Mgr., (979) 450-0819, cell • (979) 778-1055, home Chris Duewall, Operations Mgr., (979) 777-6803, cell

FALL 2014

OUT FRONT:

MARKETING:

Building with Brangus is the Right Choice by: Tommy Perkins, Ph.D., PAS Replacement Heifers: Selection Criteria by: Jason Bates

FACES OF THE INDUSTRY:

Building Superior Cattle for Tomorrow by: Kayla Wilkins

FEATURE:

GENETICS:

MANAGEMENT:

INDUSTRY:

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Brangus Publications Inc. Editor and Layout/Art Director

Tyler Dean

Director of Field Services and Commercial Marketing

Jason Bates

IBBA Comunications Coordinator

Profit Drivers in the Feed Yard by: Brittni Drennan

Brittni Drennan

Administration/Circulation

Developing the Breeding Bull for Todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Market by: Gary Warner, DVM

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EPDs Benefit Terminal Production Systems by: Robert Wells, Ph.D. To Use Artificial Insemination (AI) and Estrous Synchronization (ES) or Not by: Dr. L.R. Sprott Yearling Health in the Shadow of Drought by: Lyndee Stabel, source: Feedlot Magazine Arizona National Ranch Replacement Heifer Show and Sale by: Rochell Planty Brangus Member Featured in August 18 Daily Livestock Report source: The Daily Livestock Report sponsored by CME Group

Frances Miller

Contributing Editors

Tommy Perkins, Ph.D., PAS Jason Bates Kayla Wilkins Brittni Drennan Gary Warner, DVM Robert Wells, Ph.D. Lyndee Stabel Rochell Planty Advertising

Melanie Fuller 979.255.3343 Operations

Rosanne Sralla Patti Teeler

FRONTLINE Beef Producer is a product of:

Brangus Publications, Inc. 5750 Epsilon San Antonio, Texas 78249 Phone: 210.696.8231 Fax: 210.696.8718

SERVICES CALENDER AD INDEX

Brangus Publications, Inc. Directors: Traci Middleton, Chairman Tommy Perkins, Ph.D., PAS, President Brandon Belt, Secretary/Treasurer Mike Vorel, Director Danny Farris, Director Information appearing in this issue may be reprinted only with written permission of Brangus Publications, Inc.

ON THE COVER: Lush grass abounds at Circle X Land and Cattle Company in Bryan, Texas. Photo taken by Jason Bates. 2 FRONTLINE Beef Producer

LPC Livestock Publications Council Member

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OUT FRONT

by Tommy PERKINS, Ph.D., PAS IBBA EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT

Building with Brangus is the Right Choice

s we move into the fall calving season for 2014, the feeder calf market continues to reach levels never before seen in the industry. Economists continue to show a strong retail demand for beef and extremely tight cattle supplies. This has also led to continued high prices in the fed cattle market. I do not want to jinx anything, but it sure looks like the cow-calf producers could have some good financial times ahead. With the current (and projected) feeder calf prices, the value of every pound of weaned calf continues to have greater significance in the commercial cattle segment. I do not know of any faster way to increase weaned calf weight than to utilize a good crossbreeding program that maximizes heterosis.

Heterosis is simply the superiority to see and even more difficult to adaptability, insect and disease of crossbred progeny compared to measure, it is important to realize tolerance, maternal ability, the average of their parents. Most that lowly heritable traits generally digestion of course forages, mineral research suggests that heterosis will result in a greater level of heterosis conservation, maternal calving ease, increase lifetime calf production than highly heritable traits. For energetic efficiency, and levels of (15 to 20 percent), cumulative instance, fertility, maternal ability heterosis. Florida research, using weaning weight (20 to 25 percnet) and longevity can see as much as a 10 20 years of data on 1,367 head of and longevity (25 to 30 percent). to 25 percent increase in productivity, animals, indicated that straightbred Commercial cattlemen have always whereas ribeye size and fat thickness Angus and Brahman cattle produced understood the importance of may yield less than a five percent the lowest total animal value whereas crossbreeding to take advantage of increase. The American breeds, ¼ Brahman crosses, Brangus and ½ heterosis. However, commercial Brangus included, have retained Brahman crosses netted the highest cattlemen have not truly managed some level of original heterosis total animal value. Dr. Joe Paschal the full benefits of hybrid and associates reported that Brangus breeders have built Brangus calves had a higher vigor or heterosis because just changing the breed of bull has the ideal herd sire that fits the average daily gain as well merely resulted in a crossbred needs of commercial cattlemen. as higher net return when animal. This management compared to non-Brahman, style does not take full advantage of created from the initial crosses. ¼ Brahman and ½ Brahman calves. its benefits compared to a planned, More importantly, these breeds can Brangus is the reliable beef breed complementary crossbreeding be utilized to maximize maternal with more than 60 years of planned program. On the other side of that heterosis which is the increased crossbreeding where all of the hard statement, it has been suggested performance of progeny due to use of work has been done for you. Brangus that too many have continued to use a crossbred cow. Brangus influenced breeders have built the perfect Angus bulls to the point of reduced cows provide improvements in replacement female that is adaptable or complete loss of heterosis effects. adaptability, fertility, maternal ability from the west coast to the east coast, This is evident in the predominantly and longevity. from the north to the south and black hided, English based Research suggests that Bos indicus everywhere in between. The Brangus commercial cowherd. genetics in your herd will improve female excels in efficiency of weaned Although heterosis is difficult cow longevity, environmental calf production, she excels in milk 6 FRONTLINE Beef Producer

OUT FRONT production under limited feed inputs and other environmental constraints, and her Bos indicus heritage gives her built-in calving ease, fertility and longevity – all in a polled, moderate framed, solid colored phenotypic package. Brangus breeders have built the ideal herd sire that fits the needs of commercial cattlemen. Brangus bulls add profitable pounds of weaning weight to their calves, produce outstanding replacement females, and leave feeder calves with superior feedlot gains. They require fewer days on feed and produce industry acceptable carcasses. Brangus cattle produce large ribeyes and more marbling because of their Angus heritage which continue to make them the American breed of choice. The Brangus breed was developed to do it all. They are cattle that economically excel in the pasture for commercial cow-calf producers, in the feedlot for cattle feeders, and in the grocery store for retailers. Brangus cattle are known to produce a tender, high yielding beef product with optimum levels of marbling which meet the stringent demands of health conscious consumers. The outstanding maternal strengths, feedlot performance, and carcass merit of Brangus cattle make them the reliable beef breed to build the nation’s cowherd. Do not hesitate to call me if you have any specific questions about Brangus genetics or locating Brangus cattle for use in your operation. For information about IBBA programs or other inquiries, please call (210) 6968231 or visit www.GoBrangus.com. Stay connected to IBBA through

Facebook, Twitter or receive news updates by joining our email list. ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Dr. Perkins is the Executive Vice President for the International Brangus Breeders Association. He most recently was the

executive for another breed association after serving as a professor at Missouri State University and Texas State University for nearly twenty years. His professional career is most noted for excellence in the field of beef cattle ultrasound. He has a doctorate in animal breeding from Texas Tech University.

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MARKETING

by Jason BATES IBBA DIRECTOR OF FIELD SERVICES AND COMMERCIAL MARKETING

Replacement Heifers: Selection Criteria

re you selecting the right replacement heifers for your herd? As I visit ranchers throughout the country and go through their heifers, I ask what their criteria are for selecting the individuals they keep for replacements. Some of the most common answers have been pedigree, phenotype, growth or performance and, “these are the ones that didn’t come to the pen when we weaned”. Three of the four of these responses are valid criteria for basing selection, but it is important to take a look at all the factors and use the resources available to you.

The most common selection factor I hear is based on performance. “These were the biggest, stoutest heifers in my calf crop, so they will

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make the best cows”. Growth and performance are highly heritable traits in cattle and need to be considered when grading your

cattle, but look and see what factors led to those being the biggest heifers. The reason could be their mothers were the heaviest milkers, or the

MARKETING highest growth bulls in your battery sired them. Another reason could be those heifers started grazing and converting forages at the time of the year the grass was at it highest value, or they had not succumbed to a illness that may have affected some of the rest of your calves. Or, it may simply be that they are the oldest. I would recommend that when looking at performance of replacements, select the easy fleshing females that have performed above average in their contemporary age group on an adjusted weight basis at weaning. Post weaning heifers can also be selected based on average daily gain through out the development phase.

It does not matter how you choose to develop your heifers whether they are on feed or on a forage diet as long as they are all treated the same and on a nutritional incline so that you will be able to pick the higher gaining cattle. Oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hope would be that the heaviest calves at weaning would be the higher gaining females post weaning.. Pedigree of your heifers is also an important consideration as you work through the culling process. If you are selecting purebred replacements you have the opportunity to take advantage of the data submitted by other breeders whose cattle may impact your pedigree lines. The

International Brangus Breeders Association (IBBA) also runs genetic evaluations for you several times a year to compile the performance, reproductive and maternal data into selection tools (such as EPDs or selection indexes). Expected Progeny Differences (EPDs) are available for you to utilize as predictors in your replacement selection process. If you are a commercial producer and do not have registration records on your cattle, you should still take measurements and keep the data on your cows in-herd to give you predictions on your cowsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; future progenies. Everybody has that cow (continued on page 12)

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MARKETING (continued from page 11) that raises the best calves every year, but can you prove it? Keeping accurate records on your cow herd such as udder scores, calving ease scores, breed back rates, gestation lengths (if service date is observed), as well has how long those cows have been in your herd and how productive she has been every year are all easy measurements to be observed and collected. All of these indicators go into building the pedigree of your replacements. Some other traits that also must be heavily considered are conformation and docility. The biggest heifers with the best EPDs are great as long as their skeletal structure is strong enough to keep them sound for several years. When I evaluate cattle for structure I start at the ground and work up. All the weight a cow carries pregnant or open is placed on her feet. Replacement heifers must be sound footed, have enough circumference bone to carry the weight of her body, be smooth in her joints and level in her lines. Your females must also have enough body capacity to perform optimally on the forage inputs she has available to her. Culling for docility or disposition can have lasting impacts on your entire herd. Heifers that are faster or higher strung than the others are generally out of cows that behaved the same way. They have 12 FRONTLINE Beef Producer

the tendency to not convert forages as efficiently and not breed as early as better tempered cattle. Not to mention, the poor disposition can make the more docile cattle more temperamental and harder to work. It also could potentially cause harm to you. Finding the combination of cattle that are easy to handle and be around but still maintain that maternal instinct to protect her newborn calf against the threat of predators is what we are all looking

for. The important thing is to avoid single trait selection when choosing your replacements. Take advantage of all the data and information you have available and put together the group of females that optimally conform to all of these traits. Your replacement females will be producing the steers and bulls you send to the feedlot or market as herd sires. Using ultrasound to capture carcass measurements

Everything begins at the ground when evaluating structural correctness on replacement females. Structural correctness is vital to her success and longevity as a brood cow in your herd.

MARKETING on your replacements can be an excellent way to avoid losing carcass quality in your herd. Rib-eye area (REA) and intramuscular fat (IMF) are highly heritable traits that can be measured through ultrasound technology. The benefit gained by potentially increasing the quality and yield grades of your cattle is so much greater than the small expense to do so. Creating a balance of ultrasound, performance and other measurable traits are a formula that every producer strives for in his replacement females. Brangus cattle offer this balance with the built in heterosis they offer through the combination of Brahman and Angus genetics. After your development phase, strict reproductive standards should be implemented on these females before they become additions to the herd. Heifers that have been properly developed should be around 65 percent of their mature body weight at puberty. As a producer, you should then expect 90 percent conception rates in these heifers in a 60- to 75-day breeding season. There should be little reason why the heifers are not bred within this range as long as they have been developed on a nutritional incline plane and have adhered to sound health protocols. After your breeding season, pregnancy testing can give you a final indicator as to which heifers need to stay and which ones need to go. Pregnancy testing can be done as early as 35 days after a heifer is artificial inseminated or the bulls have been pulled from the breeding group. There are several ways to pregnancy check including ultrasound, blood testing and rectal

examination. These are inexpensive ways to see if that heifer you selected is going to give you a return on your investment that year, and these techniques help you avoid putting additional expense into a female that has lower fertility. Keeping accurate records on your cowherd every year is vital in making educated decisions in replacement heifer selection. Every year you should see the genetic merit of your cowherd increase and produce a product that is more profitable and more efficient than the year before, and you will not have to compete in the marketplace to purchase replacements to move your herd forward. Brangus replacements are in high demand, and the temptation

to sell all your heifers is evident. Be sure you know what you are selling and that you are not setting your own program back. The future is bright and the cow-calf producer is in the driver seat in todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s market. Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s continue to climb the ladder and BUILD WITH BRANGUS. ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Jason Bates has extensive experience in the seed stock industry having grown up in the registered thoroughbred and registered cattle business. Bates has had the opportunity to manage several purebred and commercial cattle operations, including helping develop a branded beef program from start to finish. Prior to working for IBBA, Bates worked as the Field Services and Marketing Director for another breed association. As the Director of Field Services and Commercial Marketing, Bates works to bridge the gap between the purebred seed stock producer and the commercial cattleman.

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FACES OF THE

INDUSTRY

by Kayla WILKINS AGRICULTURAL COMMUNICATIONS TEXAS TECH UNIVERSITY

Building Superior Cattle for Tomorrow

hen ranchers in the Southern United States are asked to list ideal characteristics for cattle in their operations, they may share several things in common. This may include increased maternal characteristics, maintaining high carcass merit, ideal growth rate and heat tolerance in their cattle. If a rancher checks all these qualities off the list, they would achieve a higher profitability operation. This goal can be achieved by introducing Brangus genetics in a commercial herd for the opportunity to reach maximum heterosis or into a seedstock operation.

Utilizing Brangus genetics in a herd has many benefits whether a producer has been in this industry for 30 years or just starting their operation. Many characteristics within the breed are attractive to older producers as well as young producers who see the potential Brangus has to offer. Wes Williamson, past president of the Florida Cattlemen’s Association, is a strong supporter of the Brangus breed. He has received the Commercial Producer of the

Year award from the International Brangus Breeders Association (IBBA) and continues to grow his operation. “God, for some reason, has blessed me and my family and given us an opportunity to be stewards of a very small piece of his earth and take care of a few of His cattle,” Williamson said, “and I am just blessed.” He currently runs about 10,000 head of cattle, using Brangus genetics for the majority of his herd sires and females. Williamson said

Wes Williamson received the 2012 IBBA Commercial Producer of the Year Award. Joy Reznicek made the presentation of the award and spoke volumes on Williamson’s strong support of and belief in Brangus genetics.

Norma and Charles have a long history in the Brangus Association. Charles is currently serving on the IBBA Board of Directors. Norma serves the association as well and has dedicated a lot of hours to the International Brangus Auxilary’s Scholarship Program.

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he has seen a lot of changes for the better within the industry, but more specifically the breed. “The Brangus breed has come a really long way, I think, in the last 20 years,” Williamson said. “The cattle do very good in the feedlot… the carcass characteristics have improved dramatically, and then the basic, number one reason I use them is because of the maternal aspect of the females.” Producers around the world are realizing the above average maternal qualities of the Brangus females. Maternal characteristics are among the top reasons for operations to bring in Brangus genetics. “Maternal value of these animals is unbelievable,” said Joseph Lettelier, owner of Lettelier Brangus in Florida. Many breeders across the country agree they are very passionate about the utilization of Brangus genetics. The maternal qualities and the tolerance to hot and humid climates make the breed ideal for many operations, especially in the Southeast. Even so, many producers worry that introducing the Brahman

FACES OF THE

INDUSTRY genetics of the Brangus breed into the herd can negatively impact an operation, but this is not true anymore. “They thought Brangus cattle were a little too heavy Brahman and they were going to give up something by using them, but I don’t think that is factual anymore,” Williamson said. “I think they are the complete cow for us. They really do a good job.” The Brahman influence in Brangus has proven to increase profitability for many cattlemen across the board. This is true for not only feed lot calves, but mature cows as well. “The industry has found out the Brangus will wean, with a good bull, a 100 or 150 pound heavier calf than Angus, because they have the Braham frame on them,” Lettelier said. “With the animals as far as salvage value go, we are getting $1,500 to $1,700 for a cow if she weighs 1,400 to 1,500 pounds.” Seasoned producers said the association has undergone a lot of positive changes throughout the years. These changes have been both internal, with changes in the breed genetics, and external, with advances in industry technology. Representatives of the Brangus association said they have worked very hard to assure the highest quality beef cattle they can. It has been a long process, but advancements in technology like artificial insemination, embryo transfer, genomically enhanced EPDs and many more have only helped. Charles Sword, along with his wife, Norma Sword, and their business partner, Bo Huddleston, have been utilizing purebred Brangus for 30

years on their ranch, Char-Nor Farm. Charles is currently serving on the Board of Directors for the IBBA, and said they have seen a lot of ups and downs in the industry. Norma plays a huge role in the daily tasks at the operation and agrees Brangus has made strong advancements. “We are strong performance advocates,” Norma said. “We have collected data on our cattle from the beginning, starting in 1984. We have participated in the services the Brangus breed has offered, which has changed tremendously throughout the years.” Data collection is very important to producers for breed advancements. Charles said the more data there is, the better chances there are of continuing to improve the breed genetics as a whole. Although technology has played a big role in breed progress, it is not the only change Brangus breeders have undergone. Lettlier said the consumer decides what the industry

will produce. “Big, tall cattle were popular when I first started,” Lettelier said. “Now, we breed to a more moderate bull, but yet increased my quality, increased my carcass value, weaning weight and yearling weights.” Williamson said Brangus cattle are not just strong on the maternal side anymore; they are not giving up anything from a feedlot standpoint when compared to other commercial cattle. “We are seeing that these Brangus sired calves will perform with the best calves in the feedlot,” Williamson said. “Brangus sired steers fed as good, were as impressive looking and converted feed better than almost anything out there in the feedlot.” Williamson is not alone in this common trend of efficiency in the Brangus breed within the feedlot. Many cattlemen have started utilizing Brangus for this reason. (continued on page 18)

Lack-Morrison Brangus Bulls, Females, Semen and Embryos

Bill Morrison 411 CR 10 Clovis, NM 88101 (575) 482-3254 (575) 760-7263 Cell bvmorrison@yucca.net

Joe Paul & Rosie Lack P.O. Box 274 Hatch, NM 87937 P (575) 267-1016 F (575) 267-1234

www.lackmorrisonbrangus.com FRONTLINE Beef Producer 17

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INDUSTRY (continued from page 17) “They are very valuable with their consistency and longevity and hardiness,” said Charles Sword. “They have a lot of advantages in the commercial cattle market.” The IBBA has not only influenced the commercial and purebred cattle markets, but the youth as well. Quinn Carter, an International Junior Brangus Breeders (IJBBA) member from Florida, has been involved in the association for a short time, relative to some adult members, and said it has impacted her life in a positive way. “I have been in this for five years, and I already have tons of friends all over the world,” Carter said. “It has helped me with responsibility and becoming the person I am today.” Carter said she is very excited about the association and the youth coming through. She often hosts clinics to help young showmen in the Brangus association and said she feels like giving back to the youth of

the association is what it is all about. A steady trend in all Brangus breeders is the genuine love for the breed. Whether it’s a commercial or seedstock operation, utilizing Brangus genetics helps producers make progress and obtain goals. “We are excited about the Brangus breed,” Charles Sword said. “I think we are in a better position than we have been in a long time. I really think that Brangus should break out, and hopefully we will attract more breeders and hopefully our genetics will be used in the commercial industry more than they are used today.” The Swords have been in the Brangus business for many years and said they would not have it any other way. “It’s great for us that we still, after 30 years, feel so strongly about these cattle,” Norma Sword said. “Most purebred breeders’ average length of time in operation is five to seven years, or people change breeds. We

While still relatively new to the breed, junior member Quinn Carter is a stanch supporter of the Brangus breed.

were happy we chose Brangus. We were happy with them then and happy with them now.” According to producers young and old, this is a breed that has shown amazing improvement over the years and remains on the forefront of technology to do the same in the coming years. The people within this association share a common trend of fervent belief in Brangus genetics. For more information about how Brangus genetics can impact your operation, contact the IBBA at 210696-8231 or visit their website at www.GoBrangus.com.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Kayla Wilkins is a sophomore agricultural communications student at Texas Tech University. She is active in many collegiate organizations and is excited about what her years at Texas Tech have in store for her. Prior to attending college, Wilkins grew up in Poteet, Texas where she attended Poteet High School. After receiving her bachelor’s degree, she plans to continue her education in the communications field by pursuing a master’s degree. Being involved with agriculture her whole life, she hopes to pursue a career promoting the beef industry. 18 FRONTLINE Beef Producer

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FEATURE

by Brittni DRENNAN IBBA COMMUNICATIONS COORDINATOR

Profit Drivers in the Feed Yard

n today’s market of fluctuating corn prices and skyrocketing feeder calf prices, conversion and efficiency are the number one profit drivers not only in the feedyard, but for the cow-calf operator in the pasture as well. Identifying carcass values in feeding efficiency and performance is one of the best ways to measure advancements in producers’ breeding programs.

As general manager of Irsik and Doll Feed Yard in Garden City, Kan., Mark Sebranek knows the impact conversion rates and feed efficiency

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have on the bottom line. “Dry matter conversions are important because it’s hard to predict what corn prices are going

to do,” Sebranek said, “and dry matter conversions in the feed yard are good indicators of how efficient your cowherd is at home.”

FEATURE A one-pound difference of conversion on a dry matter basis can make a huge impact on profitability. If your cattle are a little lower on average daily gain and still convert at a lower rate, the length of time on feed may increase, but the input dollars to reach harvest weight does not. Dan Dorn, supply development at Decatur County Feed Yard in Oberlin, Kan., said efficiency was the number one profit driver in the feedyard. “The less feed intake while still maintaining average daily gain

produces efficiency in the feed yard,” Dorn said. “And that’s what we’re looking for.” Following efficiency, Dorn said quality and yield is the number two profit driver, trailed by carcass weight. In regards to quality and yield, he said Brangus cattle measure up adequately. In a recent pen of cattle, Dorn saw 65 percent yield grade ones and twos and were 65 percent Choice or better. “The cattle that I looked at were Sterling Silvers, and there were several upper choice premiums,” Dorn said.

Sebranek also said Brangus cattle continue to demonstrate high average daily gains, feedlot performance, and increased quality. “We’ve really seen the quality (continued on page 24) Mark Sebranek (left), general manager of Irsik and Doll Feedyard in Gardner City, Kan., and Dan Dorn (right), supply development at Decatur Feed Yard in Oberlin, Kan., both testify that Brangus will perform in the feedyard and on the rail.

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FEATURE (continued from page 23) grades improve on these cattle,” Sebranek said. “And, the nice thing about that is you can get the quality grades along with the dressing percentage, which they’re also good at, and that combination can bring you back some dollars.” It is a common misconception that Brangus cattle get labeled as a southern breed and only prosper in hot, humid climates. While they do excel in these environments,

their Angus heritage provides them the ability to perform and thrive in the northern, colder climates. “It’s a big misconception that Brangus cattle won’t work up North,” Dorn said. “I’ve seen Brangus work at 11,000 feet elevation in the mountains. Where we are located, we don’t have a lot of humidity, and Brangus cattle don’t have any problems. Brangus get plenty of hair and they’re very adaptable. That’s a true statement—I’ve seen them

Not only are Brangus cattle excellent in maternal traits as well as environmental adaptability and longevity, but they also convert well and efficiently produce those high yielding carcasses the packers are looking for.

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work in the cold.” Sebranek agreed, saying that Brangus cattle adapt well to adverse conditions in varying parts of the country. “We have Brangus cattle that come here from the Houston area and come here for the winter months, and they hair up,” Sebranek said. “They handle it just as well as other cattle from this part of the country.” Adaptability and longevity are two characteristics for which Brangus cattle are well known. The longer a cow can stay in the herd and produce high value feeder cattle without having to be replaced, the more profitable an operation will be in the long run.

FEATURE “Another thing Brangus brings to the party is longevity,” Dorn said. “It’s my observation that Brangus cows will bring more calves due to the heterosis from the Brahman influence.” Are your cattle categorized as profit drivers in the feed yard? How do you know? Feeding your genetics and collecting the data from the packer is the only true indicator of carcass value in your cattle. Dorn suggests that producers take advantage of herd sires that have gone through a feed efficiency testing as well as comparing cattle on an individual basis to identify the outliers for average daily gain, dry matter conversion, and carcass value.

“When comparing data, it would be better to be able to compare groups of cattle if you can identify individuals within those groups,” Dorn said. Not only are Brangus cattle excellent in maternal traits as well as environmental adaptability and longevity, but they also convert well and efficiently produce those high yielding carcasses the packers are looking for. “The packers are liking the Brangus cattle more and more,” Sebranek said. “The customers we have feeding with us here are good cattlemen. They know what their cattle can do, and they’re continuing to improve on them, and once the packer gets a taste of them, they

want more.” Brangus cattle excel in all the traits to make them completely efficient and sustainable in a straight breeding operation but will also bring a higher level of heterosis when used in a crossbreeding program.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Brittni Drennan received her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Agricultural Communications from Texas Tech University. A native of Welch, a small town in West Texas, she has a passion for agriculture and has been involved in various aspects of the industry. She has extensive experience editing and writing news releases and feature stories for publications as well as several organizations. As Communications Coordinator, she administers IBBA’s online presence through social networking sites, oversees the production of IBBA’s publications and writes material promoting Brangus.

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FEATURE

by Gary D. WARNER, DVM ELGIN VETERINARY HOSPITAL BOVINE DIVISION

Developing the Breeding Bull for Today’s Market

he Society of Theriogenology was founded in the mid 1950s by a group of veterinarians from the central United States who were interested in studying the reproduction of all animals. The organization has grown to become an international organization. One of the primary interests initially was to recommend standards on bull fertility and breeding soundness. These initial standards have been refined greatly over the years.

In the decade of the 70s, great emphasis was placed on scrotal circumference. Consequently the bulls were selected on the upper end of these recommendations, thus vastly improving overall scrotal development in yearling bulls across all breeds. In the 90s, recommendations were reevaluated and new emphasis was placed on improvement in morphological standards and more or less a refinement of the basic examination.

26 FRONTLINE Beef Producer

All of the same parameters were still included, just more emphasis was placed on certain aspects of the examination (i.e., instead of awarding so many points for this or that, it was left up to the practitioner as to whether the bull passed or failed, except for a defining morphological score). All the values that used to

be involved with “scoring” a bull are still present and considered, but the old point system is no longer used. However, morphology (the shape and structure of the cell) is still of paramount importance, and the minimum number of normal cells for passing is 70 percent. There is no compromise for this score. Acceptable sperm cell motility is 30 percent, although most practitioners prefer to see higher values. The sperm cells should be linearly progressively motile, meaning they continually move forward, gross motility has little value in today’s breeding soundness evaluation. Most often, when we have motility scores less than 30 percent we have bulls with an incomplete ejaculate (most often collector error), or we have a bull with compromised production capability. Over the last several years it seems veterinarians are seeing a slightly higher percentage of yearling bulls that are having

FEATURE greater difficulty in producing semen capable of passing standards for semen quality set by the Society of Theriogenology. This leads to the rest of the discussion in this article, which is based on observation, study and numerous discussions with several experts in the field of Brahman-influenced genetics and their reproductive attributes.

What we Know About Bull Development

There has been a lot of investigation and research performed on the development of the yearling bull over the last 60 years, although most of that has been done in the Bos taurus, (Angus, Hereford, Continental breeds, etc.). Many aspects of development were looked at, most critical being the relation of nutrition

and testicular development, age at puberty, and semen production (both quality and quantity). Many researchers (Wolf, Brito, etc,) looked at similar parameters in their studies and came up with observations that were similar to previous work. One of the most outstanding observations gleaned from several of these studies reveals the greatest impact nutrition may have on a bull calf ’s development is in the first six months of life, particularly in the first two to six months. They found that those calves in this age group that had optimal nutrition available routinely reached puberty earlier and had better quality semen than the control groups that received rations that were well below or barely met requirements for maintenance and growth. Most interesting was the fact that increasing the nutritional plane beyond what is needed after weaning did not speed up puberty nor semen quality; although, some studies exhibited slight increases in scrotal circumferences and marked increases in testicular weights. It was found that optimum development of reproductive functions of the

yearling bull occurred when the bull was fed to gain between 1.5 to 2.5 pounds per day from the weaning period until the bull was marketed at 14 to 18 months. It was observed that when bull yearlings were overfed there was an actual propensity to decrease semen production in both concentration and quality; meaning a decrease in the morphology scores due to an increase in the numbers of abnormal sperm cells produced. This occurrence is thought to be due to the deposition of fat around and within the “neck” of the scrotum; in the area of the pampiniform plexus, a rather complex grouping of arteries and veins that exists to aid in the cooling of the blood that is entering the teste and warming of the blood exiting. This insulating effect (continued on page 28)

Conditioning is vital from a marketing standpoint, but too much can lead to to reduced reproductive performance. Finding the balance is key. The Red Brangus bull above provides an example of a bull pushing the scale toward heavily conditioned. The Brangus bull on the right shows an example of a bull is solid condition. Bull photos provided by Cattle Solutions.

FRONTLINE Beef Producer 27

FEATURE (continued from page 27) can have marked effect on semen quality with increases in abnormal sperm numbers such as cells with proximal droplets or bent or coiled tails. It might be noted that anytime there is a thermal insult to the teste these effects may occur. Not only can overfeeding negatively impact reproductive performance, it may also affect other systems such as the musculoskeletal and gastrointestinal as well. Even when bulls are allowed to lose weight after an extensive feeding period, most were noted to retain a lot of the original scrotal neck fat and continue to experience the defects observed during the feeding period.

Current Trends in Developing Bulls for Sale

We say current trends in developing bulls for sale when it actually has been normal procedure for a very long time that the fatter a bull is, the better he is! My dad taught me a long time ago that fat sells and it seems to be true even today. The buyer wants to visualize a bull as a mature bull in all his muscular glory when in fact most bulls marketed in the United States are sold from 14 to 18 months of age, just barely reaching puberty, with much less masculine development. This is somewhat similar to comparing a high school football player to someone playing for the National Football League. Furthermore, with the reliance on EPDs and IMF scores to enhance bull selection and marketing, it has created the notion we must push these bull calves as 28 FRONTLINE Beef Producer

hard as we can in order to derive the absolute best performance possible. This emphasis on performance comes with a price- possible poor reproductive evaluations because of overly conditioned (fat) bulls and structural problems (bad hooves caused by subclinical laminitis, unsound joints due to OCD lesions). Also, particularly if bulls are fed for maximum gain, we see digestive tract lesions leading to such problems as chronic bloat and poor performance during that rookie year out on pasture. I have long recommended to my clients they should take time after a young bull is purchased to acclimate him to forage and gradually reduce concentrate intake in order to “harden him” before putting him in the breeding pasture. It may be difficult to re-educate the bull buyer that the yearling bulls we offer shouldn’t be so fat that they waddle when they walk, but should appear as a conditioned athlete- trim and expressive in his musculature, but not smooth, slick and rotund. We should seriously look at how we market these cattle. Last, I would like to take this opportunity to discuss bull fertility and the developments I have observed over the last 35 years of practice. Of course, it costs a lot of money to develop a young bull after weaning, and we always want to recover these costs. However, it is not uncommon to cull 10 to 15 percent of a bull crop because of poor fertility; these numbers are quite common across the U.S. There have been a number of studies completed over the last 50 years that supports these numbers. That is not to say that some bulls will not pass the

Breeding Soundness Examination (BSE) at a later time; they just are not ready at the time of sale. Here in lies another problem- are we doing the industry any favors by keeping cattle like this in production? We have 80 to 85 percent of the bull crop passing their BSE at the presale checkup. Should we defer the rest and recheck later, or should we deny their existence and remove them from the sale offering? These are hard questions the industry needs to consider and answer from within. Many times the bulls with a failing grade will be “recycled” in hopes of recovering more bulls in order to merchandise them. This is not to say that on occasion the veterinarian may not achieve an adequate ejaculate and a second collection attempt is warranted to pass an otherwise normal bull. What I am trying to say is if we do not get an adequate ejaculate to evaluate and the bull does not meet parameters set forth, maybe he should be culled rather than be kept longer to see if he improves. The thought process behind this is that a large part of the failing bull’s contemporary group passed their evaluation so why didn’t he? And to further the headaches for the veterinarian, most often it is some of the best performing bulls where the problems occur. Is this possibly another clue that maybe we should change our philosophy on bull development? Maybe we need to come up with better ways to evaluate our bulls than to feed them as if they were fat steers. Maybe the question is do we need to grow them slower, possibly including more forage and more exercise? Sometimes, slower is better and fat does not always sell.

FRONTLINE Beef Producer 29

GENETICS

by Robert WELLS, Ph.D. THE SAMUEL ROBERTS NOBLE FOUNDATION

EPDs Benefit Terminal Production Systems

urprisingly, I still find that many producers do not use expected progeny differences (EPDs) as a primary selection tool for their bull. Many select their next herd bull based only on physical appearance or a perceived ability to perform, or low birth weight. In other words, does he have a well-balanced body with plenty of muscling, yet look like he will be easy on calving? Several purebred breeders have said that the only question most of their customers have is “Is the bull calving ease?” These buyers typically complain that EPDs are confusing to use or that they don’t work. With some basic knowledge, however, utilizing EPDs can be easy and beneficial to all cattle operations.

Typically, when a producer reports that EPDs don’t work, it is usually because they selected a bull with the wrong expectations for a particular EPD. The first thing one must determine is in which direction, higher or lower, a particular trait is desired. The following is a brief list of some EPD traits and the typical target direction for terminal production systems. Each breed association has numerous other EPDs they measure. The inclusion or exclusion of traits does not necessarily imply significance of a particular trait. However, the following list is common among most breeds and is important to consider in a terminal production system. A terminal production system does not retain and develop replacement heifers, and typically sells off the ranch to the next segment of the industry

30 FRONTLINE Beef Producer

or retains ownership through the feeding phase. Performance EPD Traits Calving Ease, Calving Ease Direct (CE, CED): A high CE score will indicate less potential for dystocia or calving problems. This trait takes into account both calf birth weight and calving score data, which ranges from one to four. The higher the value, the better. Use this EPD instead of just the birth weight EPD since it takes into account other factors such as frame size of the calf and relative difficulty of the calving process. Birth Weight (BW): Lower numbers are more desirable. Birth weight EPD is an indicator trait in pounds of calving ease in heifers. The differences between two bull BW EPDs is the average expectation of difference in pounds of calf weight. The genetic relationship

between birth weight and calving ease is high (0.76); however, it is not perfect. This is the reason CE is a better indicator for calving ease than birth weight. Weaning Weight (WW): Typically for most terminal production systems, a higher value is more desirable. A production system developing and retaining its own replacements would typically want to moderate this trait. This indicator is measured in pounds and is an indication of the sire’s ability to pass on weaning growth to his offspring. Yearling Weight (YW): Typically for most terminal production systems, a higher value is more desirable. However, a production system developing and retaining its own replacements would typically want to moderate this trait. This indicator is measured in pounds and is an indication of the sire’s ability

GENETICS to pass on growth between weaning and a year of age to his offspring. Carcass EPD Traits Marbling (Marb): This is the difference between marbling scores of progeny for one sire compared to another. Typically, a higher Marb EPD value is more desirable in a terminal production system. Fat Thickness (Fat, BF): This is the measure, in inches, of the 12th rib external fat difference from one sire compared to another. Typically, a moderate value is better, depending on the breed of choice. Ribeye Area (RE): This trait is measured in square inches and is the difference in ribeye area of a sireâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s offspring relative to another sire of the same breed. Smaller-framed breeds would benefit from larger values, while larger continental breeds will want to moderate this trait but remain above breed average. EPD values are not directly comparable across breeds. However, across-breed EPD adjustments can be made to compare a particular bull in one breed to another bull in a different breed. Remember, single trait selection is dangerous and can have unintended consequences. Furthermore, recognize that selection for extremes in a specific direction for any trait can change mature cow size or production efficiency over time. Select multiple traits that have economic significance for your operation, and develop a plan to use them to meet market goals of the ranch.

Roberts Noble Foundation in 2005. Prior to working for the Noble Foundation, Wells was the assistant manager of the Rio Grande Valley Livestock Show and Rodeo, Inc., a major livestock show in Texas. Before that, he was the beef cattle research coordinator at the University of Illinois for more than seven years. His responsibilities included coordinating and

assisting with activities such as processing newly arrived cattle, collecting ultrasound carcass data and artificial insemination work at the three beef research stations. Wells was born and grew up in South Texas, where he was actively involved with raising and showing beef cattle from an early age.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Robert Wells, Ph.D., serves as a livestock consultant in the Agricultural Divisionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s consultation program. He joined the Samuel FRONTLINE Beef Producer 31

MANAGEMENT

by Dr. L.R. SPROTT PROFESSOR, EXTENSION SPECIALIST EMERITUS TEXAS A&M AGRILIFE EXTENSION TEXAS A&M UNIVERSTIY

To Use Artificial Insemination(AI) and Estrous Synchronization (ES) or Not

here are times and conditions when artificial insemination (AI) and estrous synchronization (ES) will pay dividends and times when they do not. More often than not, the economics (animal value and demand) in purebred operations justify the use of AI and ES. In commercial operations, the justification for using AI and ES gets a little more complicated, but is nevertheless worth considering particularly when specific changes in production are desirable because of market demands or as a way to avoid production losses as is the case with calving problems in replacement females.

It should be remembered that AI was developed to allow cattlemen to use superior or proven genetics that would not otherwise be available by natural mating to a small, but very elite, group of bulls. Clearly, AI allows access to such bulls by any cattleman as long as semen can be harvested from those bulls. It should also be remembered that ES was developed to reduce (or negate) the need for estrus detection which is time consuming and costly when ES

is not used in an AI program. Access to bulls with superior or proven genetics through the use of AI is a well-marked path to achieving offspring with improved performance characteristics such as growth, carcass merit, and maternal value. When using semen from a calving ease bull for AI in replacement heifers, there will be a marked reduction in calving problems. Certain other characteristics such as improved fertility and longevity

are also possible in breeds that have successfully selected for those traits. The certainty of achieving such goals are dramatically improved when cattlemen use sires that, through their respective breed associations, have been rigorously tested for offspring performance. Such sires will have their proof reported through, what most cattlemen today know as, expected progeny differences or EPD values. For cattlemen desiring to effectively change performance in their herds with a low degree of risk, utilizing EPD values is a necessary component of sire selection.

When Does AI Pay Dividends in Commercial Herds?

There are several factors affecting the ability to recover the costs of AI and ES and receive dividends or price premiums. Acceptable pregnancy rates to Ai must be achieved. This can only be accomplished in properly nourished, fertile females that are disease free. Implement a good vaccination program and cull any female that is an inconsistent 32 FRONTLINE Beef Producer

MANAGEMENT calver (subfertile). Having a high proportion of subfertile fames (anything above 10%) in a herd cannot result in success whether it be in an AI program or with natural mating. The degree of change in offspring performance through AI must be relatively high for maximum dividends (or returns) to be achieved. Another way to say this is, did the degree of change in performance contribute enough additional income to cover the cost of AI and ES and give a positive economic return? To increase the chances of high performance change, choose a bull that excels in the particular characteristic of interest. To at least have a chance at

garnering dividends, the actual costs of AI and ES must be calculated. Nevertheless, achieving acceptable pregnancy rates is a priority if all costs are to be covered. Of all the costs associated with AI, the cost of labor is sometimes the most expensive. That is the reason to utilize ES, which reduces the cost of labor associated with estrus detection. The new offspring may have to be marketed in a system that clearly recognizes the change in performance and offers a rewarding price (or price premium) based on the degree of performance change. For example, calves with improved carcass merit may have to be retained through the feedlot phase

of production and be sold on-therail in order to receive premiums. On the other hand, calves that fail to achieve increased carcass merit will receive discounts in such a system. To the contrary, when AI is used as a way to improve growth rate and resulting sale weight, more traditional markets can be used since the heaviest calves usually bring more dollars per head than the lighter weight calves. The tables on pages 34 and 35 demonstrate the actual and projected returns from using AI and ES in commercial females. All the tables refer to cattle where the only goal was to use AI as a way to generate calves with increased growth rate whose (continued on page 34)

FRONTLINE Beef Producer 33

MANAGEMENT (continued from page 33) additional pounds at market time could potentially generate enough additional income to cover the costs of AI and ES. There were successes and failures. However, there are other economic reasons to use AI in commercial females. Calving problems in replacement females can be reduced (even eliminated) by mating these females to calving ease bulls. The result is avoidance of production losses associated with calving problems and loss of income. Increased (or decreased) maternal value may be desirable in replacement females through using bulls with known EPD for maternal value. Improved carcass merit can be achieved by using sires with high

EPD for marbling or those with EPD for increased retail yield. Texas field trials (data not shown here) have been conducted over the years where AI was used in commercial cows to generate a total of 47 calf crops. Sires were chosen for at least one or two of the production characteristics mentioned above. Success in changing performance was achieved in all 47 groups because sires were chosen based on EPD values. The rate of returns above the costs were dictated by factors listed above as items 1, 2, 3 and 4.

Summary

When you hear people say that AI and ES do not pay in commercial herds, sometimes they are right.

But, in certain cases, they are wrong. Choosing specific production goals for specific markets and achieving high pregnancy rates with semen from proven sires are two of the critical components influencing financial success with AI and ES in commercial females. The value of any returns above costs is dictated by fluctuations in market prices and degree of performance change. Remember, too, that Ai to a calving ease bull in replacement heifers will reduce (even eliminate) calving problems and associated costs of delayed rebreeding, assisting at the time of calving, follow up therapy, death/injury to the heifer and her calf, and increased labor from frequent checks for heifers that may need assistance.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Dr. L. R. Sprott- professor and AgriLife Extension beef cattle specialist emeritus. Sprott served as Upper Gulf Coast beef cattle specialist from 1981 until his retirement in August 2003. His interest specialized in commercial cow-calf production and his research publications focused on specific reproduction improvement methods.

34 FRONTLINE Beef Producer

MANAGEMENT

FRONTLINE Beef Producer 35

INDUSTRY

by Lyndee STABEL source FEEDLOT MAGAZINE

Yearling Health in the Shadow of Drought Fall Expectations Were Decided Over a Year Ago

bring.

all can be a challenging time at the feedyard. Calves are coming in from all over when weather is widely variable, and drought conditions in recent years only magnified the health risks. Though many areas have seen some relief, late summer had cattlemen wary of lingering effects and what else the fall will

Last year was worse, and veterinarian Scott Crain, owner of Cattle Health Management Network in Meade, Kans., pointed to some of the effects drought brought to cattle health. “We were all spending more money on drugs, seeing cattle at the front end, and at the back end, losing them when we weren’t expecting to,” Crain said. Of course, any cattle deaths are costly, but acute interstitial pneumonia (AIP) often strikes in the last weeks on feed after full costs are incurred. Necropsies found some lung adhesions, but the most telling were cases of “marble-sized abscesses, right next to goo lung tissue,” he said. Adhesions are a sign that the animal had a respiratory problem earlier, but the pattern made the veterinarian think about much earlier. “A calf ’s health starts in the womb, and for the last several years we’ve had a cow that’s challenged, the fetus is challenged and the newborn calf is challenged,” he said. For a short time in healthy calves, the thymus gland grows and establishes the immune system, but Crain said post-death exams showing an underdeveloped thymus are signs of 36 FRONTLINE Beef Producer

those early challenges.

And those marble-sized abscesses?

“If you have a young calf that’s walking along behind mom, he’s inhaling dust all the time,” Crain noted. “ A normal calf ’s immune system will deal with that, but not the one with poorly developed immune system. He’ll have a small pocket of dust, a fleck on his lung that continues to grow. And he’ll get another one, and another one. But you’ve never seen him sick or treated him on the ranch.” The stress of transport and relocation to a feedlot can make such calves an easy target for further respiratory disease. Spotty problems can be fatal, especially when calves grow quickly to heavy weights. There have been many reports of such problems in the best growth genetics. A weakened immune system can be especially detrimental as cattle move through marketing channels. The more places an animal goes, and the more cattle it is exposed to, the greater likelihood it will get sick,

Crain said. With each movement, information for each animal also tends to be lost. “We need to find ways to streamline the marketing process and retain more information along the way,” the feedlot veterinarian said. “That could help more animals to receive the optimal handling and treatment that will improve overall health, especially during greater periods of stress such as drought.”

Why drought effects linger

Weather conditions may have improved in many areas, but Crain does not expect that to translate quickly into improved cattle health. Many cattle on feed and those soon to enter were carried and born in drought conditions and even with rain, pastures take time to fully recover. “The timeline to think about is – from conception to yearling to going to the feedyard – about 18 months,” he said. “So it will be 18 months after the drought is completely over and the grass has returned to normal that I expect to see heatlh as we used to see it, and some of these pastures

INDUSTRY may need three to five years to really repair themselves.” In the meantime, he urges producers to keep putting out the minerals and supplements of past years, even if their grass looks sufficient. “Drought-stricken pastures typically do not have all the necessary nutrients, even though rain has allowed grass to grow,” Crain said. Cattle today may have the same potential for health problems as last year, but two leading Kansas cattle feeders say as of June, overall health has improved. Cooler temperatures and more rain to settle the dust have helped prevent those early challenges from exacerbating

health problems in cattle with compromised systems. Dan Dorn, supply development manager for Decatur County Feed Yard, Oberlin, Kans., credited his customers as well. “Many of them are focused on quality,” he said. “When the drought first started, they sought to learn from the situation, make improvements and move forward.” However, he and Nick Chesnut, operations manager for Cattle Empire’s feedyard division, Satanta, Kan., noted higher prices may yet have negative impacts on cattle health. To best support the wellbeing of calves entering feedyards, producers need to maintain good vaccination and weaning programs.

“As feeder cattle of all types – preconditioned or not – bring record high prices, there is less and less incentive to put in the time, effort and money for those programs,” Chesnut said. “I’m afraid producers will just want to take the money and run,” Dorn agreed.

Only time will tell

“I’d like to think this year will be better than last, but I don’t want to disappoint myself,” Chesnut said. For the moment he is just going to expect another season of health problems and hope to be proven wrong.

FRONTLINE Beef Producer 37

INDUSTRY

by Rochell PLANTY DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC RELATIONS ARIZONA NATIONAL LIVESTOCK SHOW

Arizona National Ranch Replacement Heifer Show and Sale

uyers and Consignors are encouraged to participate in the Arizona National Ranch Replacement Heifer Show & Sale set for Sunday, December 28, 2014 at the 67th Arizona National Livestock Show in Phoenix, AZ.

This event, chaired by Clay Parsons and Rick Lehman of Marana Stockyards, Marana, AZ will provide an opportunity for Arizona Cattle Ranchers to showcase the best replacement females representing their genetic program and its superior offering of heifers that are Arizona raised and Rock Footed. These cattle will work in tough southwest environments and produce calves each year that fit real world agriculture. This program is ideal for Purebred Brangus and Brangus Gold Commercial Cattle. All cattle will be subjected to a rigorous pre-show sift to guarantee a standard of perfection and soundness required by any cattle buyer. Details regarding the show and sale will be available soon online. Four Divisions will be offered for pen of three (3) ranch raised, commercial replacement quality Heifers. Heifers may be either purebred or crossbred. Cash premiums and awards are offered. Entry is open to Arizona raised cattle from Arizona owned ranches. Four Divisions offered: Division I: European and British Breeds; Pen of (3) three Bred Heifers (purebreds and/or crossbreds); Females 15-36 months of age on or before December 31, 2014. Consignors must provide pregnancy

38 FRONTLINE Beef Producer

verification signed by an accredited, non-owner, licensed veterinarian at time females are processed at the show. Division II: European and British Breeds; Pen of (3) three Open heifers (Purebreds and/or crossbreds), Females 15-24 months of age on or before December 31, 2014 Division III: American Breeds; Pen of (3) three Bred Heifers (purebreds, crossbreds and F1s); Females 15-36 months of age on or before December 31, 2014. Consignors must provide pregnancy verification signed by an accredited,

non-owner, licensed veterinarian at time females are processed at the show. Division IV. American Breeds; Pen of (3) three Open Heifers (purebreds, crossbreds and F1â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s), Females 15-24 months of age on or before December 31, 2014. For more information regarding becoming a consignor, buyer or sponsorship opportunities please call 602-258-8568. The Arizona National Livestock Show, Inc. is a non-profit organization. For more information call the Arizona National office at (602) 258-8568 or visit www.anls.org.

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INDUSTRY

source THE DAILY LIVESTOCK REPORT SPONSORED BY CME GROUP

Brangus Member Featured in August 18 Daily Livestock Report

hile there continues to be a lot of discussion in the market about potential beef and pork supplies in the short term (next 3-6 months) it is important to continue to pay close attention as to what is happening with the breeding herd.

So far this summer, we have seen what you would normally expect in a market with steadily declining feed costs - producers are holding on to their stock as the profit outlook on future production has dramatically improved. The slaughter data for cows and sows is published with a two-week lag, and for the week ending August 2, USDA reported that total cow slaughter at 92,732 head was down 21% from a year ago. Indeed, US cow slaughter has averaged down 16% compared to year ago since March. The reduction in cow slaughter is but one part of the picture, however, as in order to ramp up output, producers not only need to hold on to their existing stock but they also need to bring more heifers into the herd. This is likely to be a much slower process than many market participants appreciate. We recently received a note from one of our readers, Robert Englehart with B+E Cattle Company and retired USAF Officer, who made some excellent points as to why the process of herd rebuilding will be particularly slow. First, he stressed the impact that drought had on producers during the past few years, causing the beef cow herd in that state to decline by about 1 million head in 2011 and 2012. This 20% decline in the inventory number was a shock that forced thousands 40 FRONTLINE Beef Producer

of producers out of the market. And once those producers are out, it will be very difficult to bring them in simply because of the high risk/high cost of investing in the cattle business. The cost of entry has become exorbitant in recent months, with feeder cattle prices north of $200/cwt. “The absolute cost to get into beef production today prices potential small producers out,” Englehart points out. “I’ve been very successful in selling yearling Brangus heifers and bulls for $1,200-1,500. If you went to a livestock market (you need) to compete with the limited feeder supplies and have to shell out (now) $1000+ for every calf (with no guarantee of reproduction)! That combined with high (on an absolute basis) hay/feed prices, it is very easy to see very few folks want to re-enter the industry after struggling through a historic drought. The capital required to enter the production market from scratch today is substantial.” This is indeed a very salient point and one that analysts often forget. Yes, the promise of profits is as big today as it has been in decades but the capital demands are also much more significant and only larger producers are set up to pour money in a larger herd. The expenses related to pasture management and land costs also have skyrocketed. The higher prices

of everything and extreme weather events make the cattle business a very risky place to be, something that will be challenging for an aging cattle producer base. For some, this may be the right time to sell high rather than gamble on higher returns down the road. The cattle business has been shrinking for many years in North America. Recognizing structural change is always difficult and often done with the benefit of hindsight. This is a sobering assessment from a producer that has and continues to experience the economics of the situation directly. We thank Bob for his note and salute him for his service.

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5750 EPSILON | SAN ANTONIO, TX 78249 | 210-696-8231 | www.GoBrangus.com

August 20

The Spring and Fall issues of the FRONTLINE Beef Producer will focus on timely and relevant topics

FRONTLINE Beef Producer 41

CALENDAR SEPTEMBER 2014 7

Brangus Show of Merit Entries Due

Space Deadline for October Brangus Journal

NOVEMBER 2014 1

GeneTrust at Chimney Rock Cattle Company Bull Sale :: Concord, AR

Thomas and Sons Cadillac of Brangus Sale :: Madison, MO

Indian Nations Fall Sale :: McAlester, OK

Oklahoma State Fair Junior Brangus Show :: Oklahoma City, OK

The Cattleman’s Kind Bull Sale at Blackwater Cattle Company :: Lake Park, GA

Western National Brangus Show :: Oklahoma City, OK

Southeast Regional Junior Brangus Show :: Lake City, FL

SBBA Banquet and Fun Auction :: Lake City, FL

SBBA Showcase Sale :: Lake City, FL

OCTOBER 2014

8-12 10

The Branch Ranch Online Sale Space Deadline for December Brangus Journal

10-14 World Brangus Congress :: Yucatan, Mexico 14

Salacoa Valley Buy the Numbers Female Sale :: Fairmount, GA

Salacoa Valley Buy the Numbers Bull Sale :: Fairmount, GA

GeneTrust at Cavender’s Neches River Ranch Bull and Commercial Female Sale :: Jacksonville, TX

Alabama Brangus Breeders Bull Sale :: Uniontown, AL

2-4

Inaugural Brangus Fall Conference :: San Antonio, TX

Space Deadline for November Brangus Journal

CX Advantage Sale :: Weimar, TX

Brinks Brangus at Westall Ranches Production Sale :: Ruidoso, NM

Little Creek and Friends Bull Sale :: Okeechobee, FL

Doguet’s Diamond D Ranch Sale :: Poteet, TX

Town Creek Farms Sale :: West Point, MS

4-7

NCBA Annual Convention and Trade Show :: San Antonio, TX

Louisiana State Fair Junior Brangus Show :: Shreveport, LA

Brangus Show of Merit :: Shreveport, LA

Spitzer Ranch’s Professional Cattlemen’s Brangus Bull and Commercial Female Sale :: Fair Play, SC

Miller Brangus Sale :: Waynesboro, TN

Oak Creek Farms Forage Tested Bull Sale :: Chappell Hill, TX

GeneTrust at Chimney Rock Cattle Company Female Sale :: Concord, AR

DECEMBER 2014 10

Space Deadline for January Brangus Journal

FEBRUARY 2012

To place your ad in the next issue of the FRONTLINE BEEF PRODUCER, contact: Melanie Fuller at 979.255.3343.

42 FRONTLINE Beef Producer

Since 1993 BRangus BULL 145Z4 sells. 6.04% year Marbling score.

TOWN CREEK FARM SALE

BRANGUS BULL 223Z2 sells. 1.31 yearling rea/cwt.

150 Town Creek Farm Brangus and Ultrablack Bulls

Entire 2 year-old calf crop sells. No bulls sold from this crop of bulls. Powerful, practical, functional bulls developed on a high roughage forage-based ration.Bulls guaranteed fertile and reproductively sound. Largely Cow Creek Ranch based genetics.

300 Commercial Brangus Bred Heifers

Multi-generation genetically-tracked heifers sired by Cow Creek Ranch bulls and bred back to Cow Creek Ranch and Town Creek Farm bulls.

Saturday, October 18, 2014 • 12 noon • West Point, Mississippi

BRANGUS BULL 546Z3 SELLS. Yearling scrotal: 42 cm. Yearling Marbling score: 5.01%.

Brangus bull 145Z3 sells. Yearling REA/cwt: 1.14. yearling marbling score: 4.30%.

Brangus bull 589Z sells. Yearling REA/cwt: 1.22. yearling marbling score: 4.32%.

■ Entire calf crop of two-year old bulls sell. No bulls have been sold. ■ Heat and humidity adapted bulls raised in fescue environment. ■ Large selection of user-friendly, high maternal, low birthweight bulls needed to produce valuable replacement heifers. ■ Bulls sell Trich tested and BVDpi tested. ■ Problem-free bulls guaranteed fertile and reproductively sound. ■ Providing opportunities for customers to add value to calves with pull through programs. ULTRABLACK BULL 5281Z2 sells. yearling marbling score: 5.03%. yearling scrotal: 40 cm.

Call, email or go to our website for a 2014 Sale Catalog. Total Commitment

Since 1993 300 Commercial bred BRANGUS AND ULTRABLACK heifers sell.

Town Creek Farm

Milton Sundbeck, Owner Office 662.494.5944 32476 Hwy. 50 East, West Point, Mississippi 39773 Joy Reznicek 205.399.0221 • Joy@TownCreekFarm.com Tommy Sanders 662.436.6175 • Tommy@TownCreekFarm.com Ron Flake 662.509.2233 • Ron@TownCreekFarm.com www.TownCreekFarm.com

FRONTLINE Beef Producer 43

AD INDEX ARKANSAS GeneTrust............................................................................................................. 8, 9 GEORGIA Blackwater Cattle Co.......................................................................................... 20 Salacoa Valley Farms.......................................................................................... 15 The Oaks Farms.......................................................................................................1 LOUISIANA The Branch Ranch............................................................................................... 14 MISSISSIPPI Town Creek Farm................................................................................................. 43 MISSOURI Ottman’s Brangus at Valley View Ranch...................................................... 39 NEW MEXICO Westall Ranches, LLC........................................................................................ 4, 5 Lack-Morrison Brangus..................................................................................... 17 NORTH CAROLINA Spitzer Ranch........................................................................................................ 31 OKLAHOMA Indian Nation Fall Brangus Sale...................................................................... 37 Lawman Ranch..................................................................................................... 44 Perry Ranch............................................................................................................ 44 TEXAS 8G Brangus............................................................................................................ 39 Circle X Land & Cattle Co................................................................................. IFC Cox Excalibur Brangus......................................................................................IBC

TEXAS (CONTINUED) Doguet’s Diamond D Ranch............................................................................ 21 Farris Ranching Company................................................................................ 30 GeneTrust............................................................................................................... 29 Hill Country Brangus Breeders Association Sale...................................... 35 Oak Creek Farms..................................................................................................BC Santa Rosa Ranch...................................................................................................3 Triple JR Cattle Company.................................................................................. 32 ASSOCIATIONS International Red Brangus Breeders Association.................................... 33 West Coast Brangus Breeders Association................................................. 18 EVENTS Arizona National Livestock Show.....................................................................7 PRODUCTS AND SERVICES Centralized Ultrasound Processing............................................................... 41 Doak Lambert....................................................................................................... 41 Elgin Breeding Service....................................................................................... 41 Hughes Cattle Service........................................................................................ 41 Lakin Oakley.......................................................................................................... 41 Multimin................................................................................................................. 25 Ritchey Livestock ID............................................................................................ 13 Silveus Insurance Group................................................................................... 19 Wes Dotson........................................................................................................... 41

Great Bulls Beget Great Bulls

Swagger

327X2

John Wayne x Fred’s Dam

Swagger x Double Time

Thick, Sound, Functional, Affordable These bulls and more now available private treaty.

PerryRanch

Frank Perry  405.833.5189 www.perrybrangus.com 44 FRONTLINE Beef Producer

Lawman Ranch

Shiloh Hall  918.798.1337 www.lawmanbrangusranch.com

FRONTLINE Beef Producer 45

Oak Creek Farms Forage Tested Bull Sale

Saturday, October 25, 2014 - 12:30 p.m. Oak Creek Farms Sale Facility, Chappell Hill, Texas

Selling 125 Forage Tested OCF Bulls

Brangus  Red Brangus  Angus  Red Angus Source Verified Commercial Heifer Sale to follow Bull Sale Pre-Sale Activities, Friday, October 24, 2014: 2:00 PM - Parade of Bulls  6:00 p.m. - Seminar followed by Ribeye Steak Dinner sponsored by Zoetis Seminar Speakers: Dr. Tommy Perkins, IBBA Executive Vice President  Kevin Milliner, Zoetis - DNA Technology Updates Ranch Tours Available Thursday and Friday

VOLUME DISCOUNTS AVAILABLE!

Input costs are increasing more rapidly than prices for cattle. Oak Creek Farm’s Forage Developed Cattle thrive and perform on grass year after year without any additional inputs.

Over Thirty Years Experience Breeding Low Input, Highly Efficient, Easy Fleshing Cattle That Thrive in The Pasture OCF Bulls gathered for Forage Test Weigh Out in Brazos River Bottom

On October 25, Our Top 125 Coming Two Year Old Forage Tested OCF Bulls Will Sell!

Bulls Forage Tested at OCF beginning on March 1st and ending September 1st under guidelines of Texas Forage & Grassland Council. Weights and Measures recorded by Texas A&M Extension Service.

oakcreekfarms.com- customer’s OCF sired calves achieve 80-90% choice & prime!

www.oakcreekfarms.com

Oak Creek Farms  info@oakcreekfarms.com

Going on eleven years using DNA to identify desirable heritable traits. 46 FRONTLINE Beef Producer

John & Carolyn Kopycinski  Chappell Hill, Texas 979/836-6832

Directions from Houston: Hwy 290 (60 mi west) then 4 mi south on FM 1371

Oak Creek Farms - Celebrating our 47th Anniversary - Breeding Brangus Since 1967