Brangus M AY 2 0 2 0
1
2
May 2020
3
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
IBBA STAFF
Area 1: AL, FL, GA & South America Chris Heptinstall, President 205.363.0919 :: cgstall@yahoo.com Area 2: AR, LA & MS Jeremy Jackson 479.659.4200 :: jjackson101@gmail.com Area 3: ND, SD, MN, WI, IA, IL, MO, KS & NE Vern Suhn, 2nd Vice President 620.583.3706 :: vern@geneplusbrangus.com Area 4: IN, MI, PA, OH, KY, TN, NC, SC, VA, WV & New England States Darrel Law 615.666.2976 :: cklaw@nctc.com Area 5: OK Shiloh Hall 918.798.1337 :: shiloh518@yahoo.com Area 6: NM, AZ, CA, NV, UT, CO, WY, MT, ID, WA, OR, Canada & Australia Greg Romans 541.473.3822 :: romansbrangus@yahoo.com Area 7: TX & Mexico Allen Goode, 1st Vice President 214.683.1600 :: allen@triocattle.com Area 7: TX & Mexico Mary Douglass 210.269.3220 :: twoheartsbrangus@yahoo.com Area 7: TX & Mexico Lee Alford 979.820.4205 :: alfordcattle@aol.com Area 8: Central Time Zone (except TX & OK) Doyle Miller 615.351.2783 :: dmiller@doylemillercpa.com Area 9: TX & OK Mike Weathers, Secretary/Treasurer 979.733.0907 :: mikeweathers@msn.com Area 10: Mountain & Pacific Time Zone States Troy Floyd 575.734.7005 :: tfloyd@leaco.net Area 11: Eastern Time Zone States Rob Singleton 770.862.0983 :: singletons2002@yahoo.com
International BrangusÂŽ Breeders Association 8870 US Highway 87 E, San Antonio, TX 78263 P.O. Box 809, Adkins, TX 78101 O: (210) 696-8231 F: (210) 696-8718 info@gobrangus.com gobrangus.com
4
May 2020
Executive Vice President Darrell Wilkes, Ph.D. dwilkes@gobrangus.com 210.718.8051
Director of Accounting & Finance Justine Voss jvoss@gobrangus.com 210.696.8231
Director of Registry, Media & BPI Co-Editor Jessie England jengland@gobrangus.com 830.263.9384
Director of Genomics & Research Macee Prause mprause@gobrangus.com 210.696.8231
Member Services & Marketing Coordinator Lori Edwards ledwards@gobrangus.com 210.696.8231
Director of Information & Technology Andrew Sicotte asicotte@goregstr.com 210.696.8231
Customer Service
Julie Broadus jbroadus@gobrangus.com 210.696.8231
Brangus Publications, Inc. Editor Emily Lochner elochner@gobrangus.com 254.230.8444
Advertising Sales
Melanie Fuller mfuller@gobrangus.com 979.255.3343
Brangus M AY 2020
Cover photo by Jodi Jackson, Jackson Family Brangus @gobrangus | #gobrangus
BRANGUS
6 8 12 14 18
BRIGHT FUTURES ARE BRANGUS FUELED
TOTAL HERD REPORTING - LET’S MAKE IT EASY 2020 LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD IN THE EXHIBITION OF BRANGUS CATTLE COW-CALF SURVEY HIGHLIGHTS WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN BULLS DURING BREEDING SEASON
24 36 38 42 46
MULTI-SIRE PASTURES PROSPER
THE ROAD TO BEAUMONT 2019-2020 SHOW ANIMALS OF THE YEAR REGISTERING CALVES FROM A MULTI-SIRE GROUP NATIONAL JUNIOR BRANGUS SHOW SCHEDULE OF EVENTS
MAY2020 Volume 68 :: Issue 4
5
PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
Bright Futures
ARE BRANGUS FUELED by Chris Heptinstall, IBBA President
I hope this letter finds you and yours safe during these difficult times. I hope you have had plenty of time to catch up on spring work and studied your lesson for breeding season, while you’ve had a little spare time. Despite the current pandemic, bull sales have been strong. People are still purchasing bulls as if feeder calves were bringing $1.50, which leaves me hopeful in an economic reset imminently. I apologize for not being with you at HLSR, but since then, my wife, Alexis, and I have welcomed a daughter, Vivian Rose to the world. Sadly, we have had to cancel the Brangus Summit scheduled for June in Orlando. We hope to have a meeting this fall when things are more normal. The committees are in place now and I appreciate everyone who has volunteered their time to serve. Without a strong committee system, the association suffers. I look forward to seeing all the hard work from these dedicated members come to fruition. If you are interested in working with a committee, please reach out and let us know. Spring breeding season is right around the corner. Melanie and Emily did an awesome job putting
the IBBA Sire Directory together. If you haven’t considered AI, now is the time. The trend for range bulls sired by AI sires is $1,000-$1,500 above natural service sires. AI sired replacement females, both commercial and registered, fetch a higher bid price as well. The IBBA Commercial Marketing Committee will be asking our commercial customers to participate in an AI program where the data collected will be used to help us develop a stronger Marbling EPD. If you would like to participate in this program, please let us know. The DNA portion of Regstr will be released soon. You will see the familiar page like what we had in the portal for DNA requests. Automizing DNA will free up Macee to get caught up with her workload. Next to be finalized is accounting. It is about time for Total Herd Reporting, and we look for this process to be far more streamlined than last year. Please communicate with the IBBA staff to expedite the THR process. In closing, I would like to extend my gratitude to be named as your president this year. God willing, I will see many of you at various sales and events this summer and fall. Don’t be afraid to go where the data takes you, Chris
Welcome Vivian Rose Heptinstall March 10, 2020 8 lbs 1 oz 21.5 inches
The IBBA staff congratulates board president, Chris Heptinstall, and wife, Alexis, on the addition of their daughter, Vivian.
6
May 2020
7
EXECUTIVE CORNER
TOTAL HERD REPORTING Let’s Make it Easy
by Darrell Wilkes, Ph.D., IBBA Executive Vice President
Total Herd Reporting (THR) season is right around the corner. This article is intended to help you go through the THR process with as much understanding and as little hassle as possible. THR fees are paid annually on the active cows and bulls in each herd. A single annual THR fee replaces a whole list of nickel-and-dime fees that non-THR breed associations charge for their services. After 13 years on the THR system, we still get calls in the IBBA office complaining about THR. The common complaints fall into three categories: 1) it’s too expensive, 2) it requires too much recordkeeping, and 3) I don’t have time to do it. This article will address all of these concerns. Is THR expensive? The annual THR fee for each active parent animal is $21. Once this is paid, there is no registration fee charged on calves; there is no charge for the first transfer of a female under 24 months of age or a bull under 30 months of age; there is no charge for processing weaning, yearling, or ultra-sound data; there is no charge for handling DNA data or correcting a parentage error based on DNA tests; nor is there a charge to send a registration certificate to a new owner. All of the items listed above are things that are routinely charged by breed associations that do not utilize some form of total herd reporting. Below are some examples of piecemeal pricing of services offered by other associations. • Registration fees: $7 to $27 depending on the age of the animal when registered • Added registration fee for ET calves: $10 • Fee for processing birth and weaning data: $3 • Transfer fees: $5 to $12 beginning with the very first transfer of an animal • Fee to mail registration certificate to new owner: $3 • AI service certificate: $10 • Parentage correction based on DNA results: $5 4500 For most breeders, the once-per- 4000 year THR fee of $21 on each parent 3500 animal adds up to less than the costs 3000 of paying for the services listed above. 2500 Does THR require more recordkeeping? The simple answer is no. If you’re in the seedstock business, your recordkeeping requirements are higher than those of a commercial producer. That is a simple fact that 8
May 2020
will never change. What differentiates seedstock from commercial stock is documentation of genetics and performance on an individual animal basis. Whether IBBA uses THR or a piecemeal approach on service fees, certain records are required in order to successfully operate a seedstock enterprise. There is only one area where THR requires more official recordkeeping than non-THR systems. THR requires that a reason be given for a cow being disposed. In virtually every case, this is a record that every good herd manager would have anyway. People usually have a reason for getting rid of a cow and they have it recorded somewhere. THR actually makes it easy because you have a perpetual record of the disposal and the reason for it. I don’t have the time to do it! When the initial THR mailing from IBBA goes into the mail once per year, it generally creates a flurry of activity and members feel crunched for time to get it done. It does not have to be this way. The key to an easy THR experience is keeping your records current in the IBBA registry day-to-day and month-to-month. Of course, this is easier said than done. But if you can muster the discipline to record disposals and transfers on a regular basis, the initial THR inventory report that you receive to begin the official THR reconciliation will be current and you will have very little work to do in order to complete your THR. You can log into Regstr and record disposals as they happen throughout the year. This will keep your inventory current and THR reconciliation will be hassle-free. Think “Cow Year.” In 2018 the IBBA board voted to move from twiceper-year THR reporting to once-per-year. Initially, (continued on page 10)
Brangus Birth Dates by Month
2000 1500 1000 500 0
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
2017
2018
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
9
EXECUTIVE CORNER (continued from page 8)
the date for THR reconciliation and billing was set for March, but in 2019 the board moved it to July 1. On page 8 is a chart showing the calving distribution of the Brangus population for calendar years 2017 and 2018. This is the information used by the board to drive the decision to make July 1 the trigger date for the annual THR reconciliation. A THR “cow year” is from July 1 through the following June 30. When you confirm your July 1 inventory of assessed cows and pay your THR fees for those cows, they are covered for the next 12 months, up through the following June 30. This means that the calves they have during this period are covered - there is no registration fee for the calves, no fee for processing weights and ultrasound, no fee for DNA-based parentage verification or parentage correction, no fee for the first transfer if under 24 months of age, etc. It helps to think of a THR cow year in a circular way (like a clock). Once THR is paid on the July 1 cow inventory, it covers the calf that a cow will have any time during the following 12 months. Whether the calf is born in October or April, it makes no difference. If you don’t get around to registering a March calf, for instance, until the cow has entered the next cow year, that’s okay too, since the cow was active when the calf was born. That is the key factor. If the cow was active when the calf was born, the calf is covered and will receive all the services itemized earlier. We use the word “active” to describe a cow whose THR has been paid.
register her calf, IBBA will charge a THR–equivalent fee for the calf registration which essentially makes that young cow retro-active for the year in which she calved. Now consider another common scenario. Assume you do not register her first calf until August. As soon as you do that, you will be charged a THR-equivalent fee. At the same time, you will be in possession of an invoice from IBBA for her next cow year. It might seem like you’re paying for the same cow twice, but you are still just paying one THR fee for each year in which she has a calf. The IBBA computer will always assume that you are keeping every single heifer calf and turning them all into cows. If you do not dispose of them earlier, they will be assessed on the first July 1 date following their second birthday. A common complaint about THR is that the assumed inventory to be assessed includes a lot of young females that have turned two-years old, which are still in your computer inventory but are not in your physical inventory because you sold them long ago –but did not dispose of them in the computer system. If you transfer a heifer to another member, the computer knows that and will adjust your inventory accordingly, the heifer will come out of your inventory and into the buyer’s inventory. But if you cull a heifer, or if she dies, and you do not officially dispose of her, the IBBA computer must assume that she is still in your inventory. You can save yourself a lot of hassle at “THR time” if you will timely update your disposal records. You don’t need to wait until IBBA sends the pre-assessment inventory list. It will be easier this year. Those of you who reconciled your THR inventory online last year were quick to point out that the process was slow and inefficient simply because of the way the Regstr system forced to you to re-load a new page after each disposal. The IBBA staff referred to the process as “running laps.” The next round of THR will feature a simple-to-read table which lists all assessment eligible animals along with easy-to-use drop down boxes with disposal codes.
CLOCKWISE FROM JULY 1 There are dozens of what-if scenarios that can be played out, but just consider a common one related to first-calf heifers. Suppose a heifer was born in March of 2019. You decide to keep her as a replacement, and you breed her to calve in the spring of 2021 as a two-year old. On July 1, 2020 she is not yet two-years old, so she will not be assessed for THR even though she is expected to calve within the next cow year. At that point, the IBBA computer will not know that you are keeping her as a replacement. It won’t know that until you record the birth of her first calf. If she calves in March 2021, she is now a dam but still has not been assessed THR fees. As soon as you 10
May 2020
July 1, 2020 is the date to remember. July 1, 2020 is the first day of the next “cow year” for THR. Your THR invoice will be based on the active, assessment-eligible animals in your inventory on that date. This will include all females that are two-years old or older that have NOT been disposed, and all bulls that are 30-months or older which have never been disposed in your records. On or around June 1, you will be sent a list of all assessment-eligible animals that IBBA believes are in your herd. This exact list will be available on-line if you prefer not to have the paper. Please register EVERY calf – even the culls. The fundamental objective of using a THR system rather than a piecemeal process is to encourage more complete data capture and, very importantly, to discourage selective reporting of performance data. Selective reporting is an age-old problem in all breed registries. Everybody knows it happens, but some
EXECUTIVE CORNER organizations - like IBBA - have created a system that encourages complete reporting and it is critical to improvement of the breed. We are in the GENETICS BUSINESS. The key to genetic improvement is, always has been, and always will be DATA….accurate and complete data. It is important that you register every calf, even if it died at birth or it lands in the cull pen. It costs nothing to register a calf that is born to an active cow. Data on the under-performing animals is just as important as data on the best ones. ET calves pay their share, too. Many breeders use commercial recipient cows to support their ET programs. Such cows are noted in the IBBA registry, but they are not active registered cows and are not charged THR fees. When ET calves are registered, they are charged a “THR-equivalent” fee of $21. However, if a breeder uses active THR cows as recipients, and pays the THR fees on those dams, their ET calf is covered by the THR fee paid on the cow. Disposal codes are important. When you remove cows from your herd, you always have a reason. In some cases, a cow has two strikes against her, and you therefore have more than one reason (i.e. she has a bad attitude AND she’s a latecalver). It is central to the concept of THR to collect specific reasons why a cow is being disposed. If you have more than one reason, pick the one that finally motivated you to dispose of a cow. Much of this information can be used in genetic evaluation, particularly for critical maternal traits such as Stayability or the Fertility Index. Attached is a list of the new disposal codes that will be used with this round of THR. They are slightly different than those used in the past and we believe they will be more informative. In the past, there was a code for “moved to commercial herd”. Unfortunately, though not intended, this code became the “easy button” and was used for over two-thirds of the disposals; we need to be more specific. If a cow really is removed from your seedstock herd and placed in your commercial herd, it is because she is not judged by you to be good enough to remain in the seedstock herd. In this case, the disposal code should provide some insight as to why you believe the disposed cow is not good enough to remain a seedstock cow. This is very important information. As it accumulates over time across many herds, it becomes very useful information. For instance, if a certain sire has a low Stayability EPD, it is important to know why. Why do his daughters leave herds prematurely? Is it because they tend to be late-calvers or have a higher percent opens? Is it because they don’t take good care of their calves and lack maternal instinct? Is it because they are aggressive or high-headed? As you complete your THR this year, please make use of these disposal codes. The codes listed are for cows. Slightly different codes exist for breeding bulls and for calves. Reach out to the IBBA staff if you still have questions with THR, we’re here to help.
COW DISPOSAL CODES 10 GENERAL REMOVAL 11 Removed – injury 12 Removed – illness 13 Removed – age 14 Died 20 QUALITY OF PROGENY 21 Undesirable progeny phenotype 22 Progeny inconsistent in quality 23 Progeny unthrifty / poor performance 30 PHENOTYPE 31 Unacceptable underline 32 Light muscled 33 Bad feet / legs 34 Light-boned / frail 35 Poor overall appearance 33 Off-color 34 Scurs 35 Poor hair shedding 40 MATERNAL / FERTILITY 41 Lacks fleshing ability / unthrifty 42 Poor calving interval – late calver 43 Open at pregnancy check 44 Poor udder – bad suspension 45 Poor udder – balloon teats 46 Poor udder – dry quarters 47 Low milk production 48 Poor maternal instincts 49 Prolapse / dystocia 50 TEMPERAMENT / BEHAVIOR 51 Jumpy / flighty / nervous 52 Aggressive 53 Extremely aggressive / unprovoked
11
FEATURE ARTICLE EXECUTIVE CORNER
2020
LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD IN THE EXHIBITION OF BRANGUS CATTLE
Dr. Robert Vineyard The 2020 recipient of the International Brangus Breeders Association (IBBA) Lifetime Achievement Award in the Exhibition of Brangus Cattle was awarded to Dr. Robert S. Vineyard. In 1972, Vineyard Cattle Company entered the Brangus business and 48 years later few members can match the effort, dedication, and resilience its owner has bestowed within the Brangus breed. The list of accomplishments is long and highly recognizable as he has successfully made a name for himself as a respected leader in the Brangus industry and distinguished member of the IBBA. Vineyard has actively been involved in the committee system of the association since his initial membership in 1973. He served on the committee that created and developed the Brangus breed’s EPDs in 1982, when the IBBA database was initially built. He also served two terms as IBBA president and for 19 years was on the IBBA Board of Directors. He also served on the Texas Brangus Breeders Association Board of Directors. His involvement did not stop within the Brangus breed, as he also served as a representative to the purebred board of the National Cattlemen’s Association. Vineyard has made vast contributions to the Brangus breed in the area of breed improvement and promotion both in the United States and Mexico. Vineyard knew that in order for Vineyard Cattle Company (VCC) to become successful in the purebred Brangus breed, he had to concentrate on superior genetics that were predictable and consistent. The goal was to supply superior Brangus seedstock to the breeding programs through the United States and international markets. With an extensive background in diverse science and as a retired dentist, he was able to use this knowledge in achieving his goal of developing the VCC breeding program. Vineyard’s theory was “to find one good cow to build a herd around.” And, it became reality in February 1977 when the famous Ms HY-I Justana 23/2 known as “Anna” was purchased. Anna went on to be entered in the embryo donor program. 12
May 2020
From there, the VCC herd was built around the lineage of Anna, and her eight daughters, who continue to be known as “the sisters.” Of these eight females, one in particular emerged above the rest, RSV-WSR Anna 650-101, known as “Nan.” Nan ranked as the number one EPD female in the breed for yearling weight for a considerable time and can be considered one of the most influential Brangus females in the breed, along with what made the VCC 101 cow family one of the most powerful, consistent, predictable in the Brangus breed. For many years, VCC annually marketed their cattle through one of the highest averaging production sales, known as the “Family of Genetics Sale.” Many powerful and breed influencing animals have entered the IBBA over the years through the breeding program of VCC. Names such as Tiny, the two-time IBBA Sire of the Year recipient; VCC Crackerjack 101N2, the 1983 National Show of Merit Grand Champion Bull, 1983 Futurity Reserve Champion, and the highest performing bull in the breed for weaning and yearling weight; VCC Impact, the 1987 HOA Grand Champion and Supreme Champion Bull; VCC Dynasty 102N3, 1983 HOA Grand Champion and Futurity Supreme Champion and the 1983 National Show of Merit Reserve Champion Bull; and finally VCC Bonus 101P2, the 1984 International Grand Champion Bull are just a small representation of the breed success behind the VCC prefix. These cattle still populate many of the notable and winning pedigrees today. VCC is excited to continue moving forward in producing outstanding and recognizable genetics, highlighting VCC Factor as the cornerstone and future of their herd. Celebrating the acceptance of the award in Houston was Vineyard, Nancy, his wife of 57 years, along with daughter, Kelly, son, Stirling, daughterin-law, April, and granddaughters Bailey, Berkley, Bristol, and Lilly Faith, and grandson Robert Stirling III.
Genetics That Endure Tests of Times Town Creek Farm Essentials Fertility – Mother Nature is our best employee for fertility selection. If she’s open or dry, she’s out of our system. Cattle high in fertility breed back early. Longevity – The longer a cow is in our herd producing, our cost of owning her goes down. Our customers demand longevity, so we prove longevity. Environmentally Adapted Seedstock – Cattle that fit environments are more productive, efficient, last longer and are more profitable for us and for our customers. They require less labor and less management. Balancing maternal with growth and carcass traits – More growth, frame size and milk decreases maternal traits. Our focus is on fertility, moderate milk, mothering instincts and survivability. Stocking Rate – Low input, efficient cattle. Our grazing management systems focus on propagating genetics that thrive perform at optimum in our environment. Heterosis – Increasing levels of heterosis by introducing of new Brangus genetics. JOIN US ON June 23, 24, 2020 – Florida Cattlemen’s Association Convention and Trade Show, Orlando. MARK YOU CALENDAR FOR October 17, 2020 – Town Creek Farm 150-Head Bull Sale and 250-Head Commercial Brangus Bred Heifer Sale.
TCF INTEGRITY 13C Semen Available
Town Creek Farm Sale Saturday, October 17, 2020 • 12 noon
at the ranch near West Point, Mississippi
150 Town Creek Farm Bulls Brangus, Ultrablack and VigorMax™ Half-Blood bulls. Large selection of FULL two-year-old bulls. 250 Brangus Commercial Bred Heifers
Multi-generational, ranch and source-verified, second generation Town Creek Farm heifers bred back to Town Creek bulls. Fall and spring calving heifers offered. Sale in its 23rd year.
Total Commitment
Since 1993
TOWN CREEK FARM
Milton Sundbeck, Owner • Office 662.494.5944 32476 Hwy. 50 East, West Point, Mississippi 39773-5207 Joy Reznicek 205.399.0221 • Joy@TownCreekFarm.com Clint Ladner 662.812.8370 • Cladner@TownCreekFarm.com www.TownCreekFarm.com
3 Quality Assurance always comes first.
Spring calving first calf heifer pairs on grass.
13
CATTLEFAX TRENDS
COW-CALF SURVEY HIGHLIGHTS The IBBA is proud to bring you the CattleFax Trends Publication that is sponsored by Ritchie Industries. Look for this article each month in the Brangus Journal and Frontline. If you would like to learn more about CattleFax, please go to www.cattlefax.com. CattleFax recently conducted its annual Cow-Calf Survey, sponsored by Crystalyx, with results coming from all the major cattle regions across the country. First off, thank you to those who took the time to complete the survey. It is greatly appreciated. The results benefit the industry by providing insight regarding trends for management practices, marketing strategies, expansion or liquidation, and more. Just as importantly, producers can utilize the findings as benchmarks to compare their own operation to their peers. Obviously, there are extensive variations within the cow-calf segment. All the analysis may not directly apply to your enterprise. Nonetheless, the following discussion and insight should at least be thought-provoking. From a cost standpoint, there was little change from 2018 to 2019 for the U.S. average cash cow cost, with a decrease of $3 to $601/head. It is important to note, these figures do not include depreciation or returns to management. Due to the additional feed requirements during the winter and into the spring, along with other expenses, the Northern Plains region had the highest cost again at $672 per cow. This region has seen cash costs increase over the last four years, ranging from $5 to $23 growth per year.
Three of the other four regions experienced a slight reduction in cash cow costs, while the Corn Belt region saw a year-over-year increase of $37/head. One thing that is unique about this part of the country is feed expenses make up 40 percent of total cash costs, compared to the U.S. average of 32 percent. Pasture accounted for another 30 percent of costs, on average, across the country. Once again, the Southern Plains and Southeast regions had the lowest cash cow costs. Most of this goes back to climate and management practices in these areas, as lower feed costs benefit most producers. To no surprise, the revenue side of the equation was lower in 2019 relative to the prior year due to the elevated corn market in the spring and summer, followed by the black swan event that occurred in August when the Tyson Fresh Meats plant suddenly stopped production for a period of time. The other factor that had a major influence on revenue was weight. The fact that weaning weights were basically steady from 2018 to 2019, at 568 pounds for steers and 526 pounds for heifers, supports that market trends were the main reason revenues were lower. The survey results showed, on average, a $19 per calf reduction compared to 2018. The CattleFax U.S. average 550-lb steer price was nearly $9/cwt lower in 2019 which would equate to roughly $50/head. So why is there such a disparity between the two values? When further analyzing the data, the first thing that jumps out is the weaning strategies. Almost five percent more producers weaned their calves over 45 days last year relative to 2018, and this group of calves had the lowest year-over-year decline in revenue at $18/ head. At the same time, fewer operations shipped calves right off the cow or weaned for 28
(continued on page 16)
14
May 2020
Cuts e.g.
OmniFount 2
save
MONEY b.
a.
c.
save d.
TIME
save
WATER
save
YOUR BACK
OmniFount 1
OmniFount 3
Living the Ritchie Life. The choice of what to cut back on is part of living a busy life. Provide fresh water for your animals, and have more for the other things. See what owning a Ritchie automatic waterer can do for you at www.ritchiefount.com. Partner to the American Cattleman since 1921. Proud to be a sponsor of:
M
A c i er1921
E AD
IN
e m nc i s A
15
CATTLEFAX TRENDS (continued from page 14)
to 45 days. In recent history, calves weaned more than 45 days have always received the highest value versus the other strategies. Because the market continues to send the signal, more producers are incorporating this protocol each year with the survey results showing 45 percent in 2015, compared to nearly 55 percent in 2019. When strictly looking back to last year, holding calves longer would have likely paid off simply due to the pattern of the cash market. The market was seasonal, with the low occurring in mid-September, followed by a recovery into the end of the year. A seasonal market occurs about eight out of every 10 years, so that alone suggests there is strong odds that longer weaned claves will garner higher values. Also, with the direction the industry is headed by putting a strong emphasis on animal welfare and health, long weaned calves should continue to receive a premium. Simply, if your operation has the necessary resources and can keep costs in check, weaning your calf crop for at least 45 days should enhance your bottom line. CattleFax breaks survey participants into three equal categories: high, average, and low return producers based on profitability. Most of the high return producers were able to keep cash costs in line, while still marketing top end calves. However, this is not always the case as some of the most profitable operations experience some of the higher costs but are able to more than offset the additional expenses by generating the most revenue. Simply, it comes down to the cost to income ratio. Each producer must evaluate whether costs, revenue, or both could be improved. One component from a cost standpoint to consider is, if you are better off purchasing or raising replacements? If females are purchased, you
16
May 2020
should have an outlook for the calf market over the next several years to decipher what is an appropriate price to pay. Also, a realistic target for life expectancy is necessary. The survey results show the average expected useful life for a cow is 9.8 years. Is this practical for your enterprise and environment? Just a couple things to consider from the revenue side, does your vaccination program and genetics meet industry standards? While these variables typically require more costs, calves should garner higher prices, causing the benefits to outweigh the additional inputs. Production efficiencies are key for all businesses in any industry. Producers from the Northern Plains found out the hard way how this concept can impact your bottom line and will not soon forget how challenging the winter and spring from 2018 into 2019 was. These hardships showed in the data, as calf crop percent from that region declined nearly one percentage point compared to the U.S. average that increased from 88.5 percent to 88.6 percent. While one percent does not seem like a significant change, it does make a difference on profitability for an operation. For example, in a 300 head cowherd, that equates to three fewer weaned calves and potentially three additional replacements kept from the calf crop. That would be six less calves immediately generating income. Last year, most Northern Plains producers did all they could to combat the harsh conditions Mother Nature dealt them, but it was too much and out of their control. However, it is important to take the proper steps on variables that can be controlled to maximize the number of calves weaned per cow exposed. Ensuring females are in optimal flesh prior to breeding and calving, performing breeding soundness exams for the bull battery, and incorporating timely vaccination protocols for calves are recommended to help increase calf crop percent. As stated earlier, this dataset provides valuable insight for not only the industry, but more importantly to producers invested in the day-to-day operations. Every piece of the results and analysis may not fit your enterprise, but it should challenge you to thoroughly evaluate whether any improvements can be made. CattleFax greatly appreciates those who participated in the survey and Crystalyx for the sponsorship. Stay tuned for more data and analysis from the survey in future CattleFax Trends articles.
17
FEATURE ARTICLE
WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN BULLS DURING BREEDING SEASON Editor’s Note: Article Courtesy of Noble Research Institute
by Ryon S. Walker, Ph.D., Noble Research Institute, livestock consultant
Bull management is often semen quality during the breeding season • Potentially requires a backup bull(s) in case the overlooked coming second to cow herd sire needs to be pulled management; when it should be Disadvantages of a Multiple-Sire the other way around. Fertility Breeding Herd issues with one cow only affect • Risk of getting fewer calves out of a particular one calf. Fertility issues with one sire due to social dominance bull could affect up to 30 calves, or • Increased risk of injury from other bulls due lack thereof. As we know, percent to fighting calf crop weaned is the single most important factor influencing profitability and is directly tied to the herd • Challenge of bringing in and using younger virgin bulls bull’s breeding capability. We are sometimes guilty Once you understand some of the things that can of not paying attention to bulls when they have their go wrong with either type of breeding herd, you can “work clothes” on, when they are out with the cows. begin making careful and close observations during Problems with the bull during the breeding season the breeding season to increase the success of your are oftentimes not detected until after the breeding cows conceiving. I would like to break it down into season or the pregnancy diagnosis at weaning. three areas to watch for during the breeding season: Thus, management of bulls to optimize breeding bull health and injury, bull behavior, and cow performance should include time during the behavior. breeding season. Understanding how many bulls you need in each 1. Bull Health and Injury breeding herd is important so that you can accurately Many factors can contribute to the health or injury evaluate breeding performance during the breeding of a bull during the season. In larger breeding season, such Many factors can contribute to the health commercial cow-calf as nutrition, disease, or injury of a bull during the breeding operations, multipleinfection, lameness, and season, such as nutrition, disease, sire breeding herds are heat stress. Fertility issues commonly used, whereas infection, lameness, and heat stress. associated with these seedstock operations factors are oftentimes typically use single-sire breeding herds. Multiple-sire not detected until after the breeding season or breeding herds are easier to manage with less risk pregnancy diagnosis at weaning, and by then, it’s too of reproductive failure, but they are more difficult late. Observations leading to diagnosis of problems to evaluate in terms of genetic improvement in your affecting fertility include poor nutrition, lameness, calf crop. Single-sire breeding herds can be a great or illness, which negatively impacts a bull’s mating tool for evaluating genetic improvement in your calf ability; can cause physical damage to the testes, which crop, but they are more difficult to manage with more could negatively impact semen quality and serving risk associated due to potential reproductive failure capacity (the ability to service several cows in a short from the bull. There are many benefits to using either period of time); and can cause transmissible diseases, system, but understanding the disadvantages of each which directly affects the cow. system is important when observing bulls during the Bulls will typically lose body condition during the breeding season. breeding season, younger bulls more severely than Disadvantages of a Single-Sire Breeding Herd • Requires more breeding pastures and managing of forage, water and fencing • Increased risk of reproductive failure from a bull due to potential health, injury, or poor 18
May 2020
older bulls, even with a proper bull:cow ratio. Loss of too much body condition can compromise the immune system, negatively affect sperm production and motility, and reduce energy needed for mating and serving capacity. Proper stocking rates with
FEATURE ARTICLE adequate good quality forage is critical throughout the extreme. One important breeding season. Reproductive diseases in bulls often times come behavioral trait is libido. unnoticed until after the breeding season. Diseases Libido measures how such as Leptospirosis and Vibriosis (bacterial aggressive a bull is diseases) and Trichomoniasis (protozoal disease) at servicing cows can cause abortion at different stages of pregnancy when multiple after infection and is transmitted directly between cows are in animals. While correcting the problem during the heat at the breeding season is impossible, following a good herd same time. To health program will reduce, or eliminate the risk of observe this, transmitting these and other diseases. ask yourself Bulls can develop infection just like any other the following animal. This can be caused by a puncture wound questions: Is from a broken fence, metal objects laying around the the bull with pasture or sticking out of the ground, boards with cows that are in nails lying around, etc., or by bacterial infections, such heat? Secondly, if as foot rot. Puncture wounds around the hoof area are there are multiple common and can cause an abscess that is oftentimes cows in heat, is he very difficult to treat and accommodate. getting multiple cows Lameness in bulls is one of the biggest problems bred or just staying with that producers deal with during the breeding season. one cow? Libido is a measureable Lameness typically results from fighting with other trait that is positively correlated to pregnancy rate. bulls, mounting of cows, objects in the pasture, and A bull with poor libido used in a single-sire breeding the unknown. Lameness due to physical activity or herd can result in a lower pregnancy rate or longer infection is oftentimes easily noticed and can prevent calving season for that herd. In multiple-sire breeding herds, social dominance bulls from servicing cows due to discomfort and pain. will likely happen and can have negative impacts on In addition to physical structure, physical damage the breeding season. If your dominant bull is running to the testes can also result in lameness and should off all the other bulls, is the genetically superior one always be observed. Lastly, exposure of bulls to increased ambient and always throws the best calves, sometimes that is temperatures prior to or early on in the breeding OK as long as all of the cows are getting bred. If he season can negatively impact spermatogenesis is one that is not genetically superior and you have and potentially reduce fertility due to heat stress. never liked his calves, then you have a problem. At Testicular temperature of bulls must consistently that point, you may need to use him in a single-sire be 3.6 to 10.8 degrees Fahrenheit (2 to 6 degrees breeding herd with your lower quality cows or just cull Celsius) cooler than the body him. You want to avoid having temperature. High relative young bulls in the same breeding The more you observe, the more humidity can affect a bull’s herd as your mature bulls, you pick up on what is normal ability to effectively dissipate especially if there is a dominant and not normal for a bull. heat through the skin when bull in the group. This could lead exposed to increased ambient temperatures. Ample to very few cows conceiving or injury to the younger shade and clean water is the best way to reduce the bull. Know the dominant bull so you can properly incidence of heat stress during the summer. Observe manage him through the breeding season, if he must how the bull moves, walks and stands, how he carries stay in the herd. his head, and his body condition. The more you 3. Cow Behavior observe, and the more you pick up on what is normal Cows will tell you a lot during the breeding season and not normal for a bull, the faster you can replace as well. While maybe not as critical as watching what him in the breeding herd. the bull does, they will give you an idea of how good 2. Bull Behavior Paying attention to bull behavior during the breeding season is just as important as observing bulls for sickness or lameness. How a bull behaves and reacts, especially in a pasture full of cows, will tell you a lot. Behavior differences in bulls can be different or
of a job the bull has done at servicing his cows. What percentage of the cows are still coming into heat at different stages throughout the breeding season? No doubt daily heat detecting is very labor intensive, but that is why we prefer the bull to do that job for us.
(continued on page 20)
19
FEATURE ARTICLE (continued from page 19)
Keep in mind, a cow cycles approximately every 21 days. Let’s assume we have a 75-day breeding season. If a bull is doing his job, we should expect 50 to 65 percent of those cows to conceive in the first 21 days of the breeding season (first estrous cycle), followed by approximately 75-80 percent of the whole herd conceiving by the end of the second 21-day estrous cycle, and then approximately more than 90 percent of the whole herd by the end of the third 21-day estrous cycle. If you still have 20 percent or more of your cows cycling after 60 days with the bull, something is wrong. Another question to ask is: If there are cows in heat and no bull, where is the bull? If he is off by himself eating or laying under a shade tree, then we have bull behavioral problems as mentioned above. Traditional thinking trains us to be satisfied with
our results when we have met the industry average. Non-traditional thinking should redirect our focus more on the causes of some of these failures and put more emphasis on correcting or minimizing the problem. Ask yourself what happened. Was it because of nutrition? Were cows too thin going into the breeding season or are cows on a negative plane of nutrition during the breeding season? Are there health issues causing cows to abort during early pregnancy? Or is there a bull issue: infertile, infection, lameness, or behavioral? Being aware of these things will help a producer to avoid potential fertility wrecks. Observations can lead to diagnosis of problems sometimes early enough to save your breeding season. So spend more time monitoring and observing your bull for physical and behavioral issues throughout the breeding season and make sure he is getting the job done.
TEXAS JUNIOR BRANGUS BREEDERS ASSOCIATION DONATION HEIFER RAFFLE
R10429832 | DOB: 5/25/2019 | Sire: Skyhawks Abe 99D2 | Dam: Skyhawks Ms Pres 915E The Texas Junior Brangus Breeders Association (TJBBA) is raffling off a show heifer to raise funds for their TJBBA State Show each June. 1 ticket is $100, only 200 tickets will be sold - contact a TJBBA director or advisor to purchase ticket(s) Heifer is donated by Myron Saathoff and will be on display at the TJBBA State Show June 24-27. The drawing will be held June 27 at the Bryan Co. Expo Center in Bryan, Texas during the TJBBA State Show. 20
May 2020
21
22
May 2020
23
FEATURE ARTICLE
MULTI-SIRE PASTURES by Emily Lochner, IBBA Editor
PROSPER
For most cattle producers, May is multi-sire pastures, and in 2017, the management officially the start of breeding made the switch from small group breeding systems season. Spring calving herds who to large, running 100 cows with 10-12 sires for their have not already turned their bulls breeding season. “At first it was tough with record keeping, out will do so in the coming days definitely a transition, but now I think it’s better for and weeks. When most producers us, getting away from AI’ing so many cattle,” she envision breeding season, it’s one of comments. “We were trying to tighten our calving three primary mindsets: single sire period, and multi-sire pastures has helped us pastures with 30 or less cows, artificial insemination accomplish that. We turn out the bulls and 60 days (AI), or embryo transfer (ET). But for some later we pull them. When you AI, if you miss a cow operations, like Brinks Brangus at Westall Ranches, the first time, you’ve thrown off her calving cycle for breeding season looks a little different with a lot less an entire year. With multi-sire pastures, we can be stress and a little more organization. Set in rocky, canyon-filled eastern New Mexico, certain that the bull or bulls will catch the majority of Westall Ranches was founded in 2009 by Ray and the herd.” So what are the best record-keeping practices for Karen Westall. Shortly after purchasing their over those interested in making a switch to a multi-sire 23,000-acre spread, the Westalls hired Tate Pruett pasture system? “When we turn a group of cows out to as ranch manager. Pruett and Westall set out to pasture, we keep a list of every cow number and all the purchase quality Brangus cattle to fill the ranch and sires in that pasture. We were quickly introduced When you AI, if you miss a cow the first also keep the dates that to Brinks Brangus. “Very time, you’ve thrown off her calving the bulls were turned in simply, it become apparent cycle for an entire year. With multi-sire and out,” Kelli shares. “I that in the Brangus put all of that information world, everyone knew pastures, we can be certain that the bull or into the CattleMax the contributions of the bulls will catch the majority of the herd. system, but I also keep legendary Brinks Brangus -Kelli Pruett spreadsheets on my herd,” says Pruett. In computer as a backup. If a sire ever jumped the fence 2010, not only did they purchase a truckload of into another pasture, I simply add that sire to the list females in the Camp Cooley dispersal sale, they of sires in the new pasture. It’s pretty easy to keep purchased the rights to the Brinks Brangus name and track of, so long as you stay on top of it. When you’re the legendary brand, known today as Brinks Brangus registering calves over a year later, you definitely will at Westall Ranches. “In the early years, we did a ton of AI and ET not remember if you didn’t write everything down.” For the Westall crew, pulling calves in early has work,” mentions Tate’s wife, Kelli, who oversees proven to be the most effective. “We pull our pairs in the records management aspect of the ranch. In when the calves are one to two-months old. At that fact, Westall Ranches was transferring hundreds time, we pull DNA and register the calves. With DNA of embryos per year to identify the females who sample processing taking over six weeks, by the time could produce calves that would thrive in the rough, the calves are weaned, we have most of our results in drought-stricken country. “Over the years, time and the calves are sire-verified and ready to be sold,” constraints and finding help has made us slow down. Kelli comments. “For now, we blood test our calves, Tate is the only full-time staff, previously he had but we’re hoping to move to tissue sampling with our several part-time workers who could help us, but it’s next calf crop.” been a challenge to find help these days,” she states. “The first years after purchasing the Brinks cows, “I’ve learned a lot in the past few years about best we kept our pasture sizes small, one bull to 12 cows. processes,” she mentions. “With registered cattle, I’ve But, out west, our pastures have to be large so it was found that it’s easiest to do everything at one time. We proving to be difficult.” Soon, they began to investigate have about 600 active cows at any given time, and the 24
May 2020
FEATURE ARTICLE multi-sire group feature in Regstr works really smooth trimming completed at least 30 days prior to the start and saves a lot of time. From an AI and ET operation of breeding season to avoid lame or sore-footed bulls to a multi-sire operation, I’m not going to say there’s at the important beginning of the breeding season.” Dr. Brandi Karisch, associate professor and less work from the record keeping standpoint, but Extension beef cattle there’s certainly not more Before the breeding season begins, specialist at Mississippi either.” But what about the State University agrees. a few simple management procedures management side? “Management of bulls involving the bulls can increase the Putting multiple bulls in during the breeding likelihood of a high pregnancy percentage a single pasture setting season is often an among the cows. would likely bring its own overlooked aspect of -Dr. Glenn Selk set of complications? beef production. Often Dr. Glenn Selk, of Oklahoma State University offers the focus is on preparing cows in terms of proper advice. “Before the breeding season begins, a few nutrition and reproductive management, and the bull simple management procedures involving the bulls can feel a little neglected,” Karisch says. Karisch’s top three priorities prior to the breeding can increase the likelihood of a high pregnancy season: 1) bulls should be a Body Condition Score percentage among the cows.” “In multi-sire pastures, make certain that the bulls (BSC) of 6.0 prior to the start of the breeding season, that will be pastured together have been in a common this allows for extra fat stores so that the bull does trap or pasture prior to the breeding season. Bulls not lose too much condition while doing his job, 2) will establish a social hierarchy; it’s better to get a breeding soundness exam should be performed on this done before the breeding season rather than every bull prior to the start of breeding season with no when they are placed with the cows,” he adds. “Put exception, and 3) when multi-sire breeding groups are young bulls with young bulls and mature bulls with planned, be sure to familiarize bulls with each other mature bulls. Mixing ages will result in the mature prior to the start of the breeding season. “Compared to our western neighbors, cattle bull dominating the younger and could cause serious (continued on page 26) injury. Finally, check the bull’s feet, and have hoof
25
FEATURE ARTICLE (continued from page 25)
producers in the Southeast face different challenges when it comes to multi-sire breeding groups. While producers in states with more of a range focus will run very large pastures, this is not typically the case in the southeast, and both pasture size and stocking rate is usually lower in this part of the country,” Karisch mentions. Producers in the Southeastern part of the United States can capitalize on pasture utilization, too. “Taking better advantage of a rotational grazing system can be a benefit to multi-sire breeding groups. Particularly if a cool season forage such as annual ryegrass is utilized, managing cows in one larger group may be more feasible, and breeders can take better advantage of available fencing. This would allow grazing rotation to more closely follow forage availability rather than having to focus on having multiple smaller pastures to accommodate smaller breeding groups,” she concludes. Lastly, nutrition is an element that cannot be overlooked in any breeding setting, multi- or singlesire pastures. Kevin Glaubius, director of nutrition at BioZyme, Inc. weighs in on best practices. BCS will fluctuate on sires the most, especially compared to cows, from the start to the end of breeding season. “My experience is mature bulls should be BCS of 6.0-6.5 and young bulls 6.5-7.0 at time of turnout. We know bulls will be losing weight during the intensive breeding period, so they need to be in better condition than the cow herd to be successful,” Glaubius advises. “For young bulls that have been purchased, a 30 to 60-day adaptation period is recommended. Young sale bulls are often fed and pushed on a diet that is considerably different than grass, and they need to be “stepped down” to a forage-based diet to avoid crashing on pasture. It is best to avoid the pasture being the step-down diet at the start of breeding seasons,” he says. “In some cases, if young bulls are purchased in under-condition you will have to add time to get them up to weight by feeding a higher plane of nutrition prior to the breeding season but don’t forget to step them down to all forage for a couple of weeks prior to going to lush grass pastures to avoid a crash.” Once a sire(s) hits the pasture for breeding season,
26
May 2020
individualized nutrition becomes impossible. “For a multi-sire pasture situation, we are obviously restricted from individually feeding. But considerations should be made to insure plenty of bunk spaces if you’re supplemental feeding your bulls, as limited space will cause additional competition and possible uneven intake. It is also important to observe bulls in multi-sire pastures and possibly allow a rest period where you remove poor-doing bulls and supplemental feed before returning them to the breeding pasture,” Glaubius recommends. “Amaferm® is a prebiotic that helps improve forage digestibility and energy. It has the right combination of macro and micro minerals, it contains organic trace minerals and high levels of vitamins A, D and E, helping keep sires in good condition during breeding season.” For most of the Brangus region, summer breeding season is brutally hot, and sperm count can become a concern if a bull gets overheated. Glaubius advises ensuring ample feed and clean water to keep your bull’s core temperature appropriate. “But most importantly, feed a high-quality mineral with high levels of zinc and vitamin E, to keep bulls working and help lactating cows meet energy and protein needs.” In May 2020, BioZyme is releasing a product to help animals better utilize energy and keep animals grazing during times of heat stress. After breeding season, Glaubius recommends spreading out weight gain and allowing bulls to get back into breeding condition and then maintaining them through the next season. “A few pounds of grain fed daily over a longer period of time is better for the animal than having to catch up in the 60-days prior to the breeding season starting. This also allows you to walk them back to a forage-based diet immediately prior to turn out.” Whether a single- or multi-sire, AI, ET, IVF, or other type of operation, breeding season is upon us. Cow health and well-being is necessary, but bear in mind, a cow affects one calf per year while a bull affects 20 to 30 or more. Here’s to a safe and productive breeding season, a prolific calf crop, and a healthy future for you and your cattle. *See article on page 42 for how-to instructions on registering multi-sire calves.
IN TRUSTED GENETICS
GENEPLUS
GENEPLUS
GENEPLUS
GENEPLUS
SUHN’S MAJESTIK BEACON 30C
SUHN’S TTT LM SIGNAL 30E13
ELIGIBLE FOR
ELIGIBLE FOR
$30 PER UNIT
$30 PER UNIT
THRU MAY 1, 2020
THRU MAY 1, 2020
CED BW WW 4.9 1.7 54
YW 116
M TM CEM SC REA 3 30 3.5 1.27 0.70
IMF FT 0.10 -0.028
CED BW WW 9.1 -2.7 38
YW 81
M TM CEM 5 24 3.6
SC 1.17
REA 0.59
IMF FT 0.12 -0.019
SUHN’S BUSINESS LINE 30D26
ELIGIBLE FOR
$40 PER UNIT THRU MAY 1, 2020
CED BW WW 4.9 0.9 47
YW 81
M TM CEM SC -1 23 3.7 1.78
REA 0.51
IMF FT 0.35 -0.041
CED BW WW 5.5 2.3 43
YW 85
M TM CEM SC REA 7 28 3.3 0.65 0.52
IMF FT 0.03 -0.036
NEXT STEP THE
IN TRUSTED GENETICS
SF BRICKHOUSE 909D9
ELIGIBLE FOR
$40 PER UNIT THRU MAY 1, 2020
CED BW WW 4.7 1.2 43
YW 80
M TM CEM SC 4 26 3.5 1.10
REA 0.57
IMF FT 0.18 -0.046
M TM CEM SC REA 10 28 3.5 0.62 0.46
IMF FT 0.23 -0.027
CB ORACLE 468F15
ELIGIBLE FOR
$30 PER UNIT THRU MAY 1, 2020
CED BW WW 5.8 0.2 35
YW 66
VOREL CURRENCY 25E8
ELIGIBLE FOR
$30 PER UNIT THRU MAY 1, 2020
CED BW WW 6.9 -0.9 29
YW 62
M TM CEM SC REA 9 24 4.7 0.63 0.44
IMF FT 0.11 -0.026
VOREL ABSTRACT 25E9
ELIGIBLE FOR
GENEPLUS
$30 PER UNIT THRU MAY 1, 2020
CED BW WW 5.7 0.3 35
YW 75
M TM CEM SC REA 12 29 4.4 0.73 0.52
IMF FT 0.11 -0.026
GENEPLUS
GENEPLUS
GENEPLUS SUHN’S EPIC 331D16
CRC FUTURE FOCUS 21244D4
ELIGIBLE FOR
ELIGIBLE FOR
ELIGIBLE FOR
$30 PER UNIT
$30 PER UNIT
$30 PER UNIT
THRU MAY 1, 2020
THRU MAY 1, 2020
THRU MAY 1, 2020
CED BW WW YW 5.0 0.2 50 105
YON CRC WARLOCK D524
M TM CEM SC REA 10 34 3.8 1.53 0.79
IMF FT 0.54 -0.031
CED BW WW 3.5 2.3 37
YW 71
M TM CEM SC REA IMF 9 27 4.5 0.65 0.53 0.17
FT -0.021
CED BW WW 3.1 2.9 39
YW 75
M TM CEM 4 24 3.5
SC 1.17
REA IMF FT 0.46 0.28 -0.050
CRC UPGRADE 55D3
ELIGIBLE FOR
$30 PER UNIT THRU MAY 1, 2020
CED BW WW 3.8 1.4 32
YW 63
M TM CEM SC 12 28 3.4 1.32
REA 0.35
IMF 0.19
FT -0.019
SF CHOPHOUSE 160F4
ELIGIBLE FOR
$30 PER UNIT THRU MAY 1, 2020
CED BW WW 5.2 1.7 47
YW 87
M TM CEM SC REA IMF FT 6 30 3.3 0.95 0.37 0.26 -0.044
GENEPLUS
SUHN’S DIRECT LINE 30G5
CED BW WW 6.3 0.3 42
YW 85
M TM CEM SC REA 9 30 4.1 1.54 0.67
IMF FT 0.26 -0.034
SUHN’S SURGE 416G11
CED BW WW 6.2 0.0 38
YW 68
M TM CEM SC REA IMF FT 8 27 4.6 0.20 0.38 0.36 -0.049
35
AFFILIATE UPDATE
o t d a o R e h T BEAUMONT
by Janet Greuel
In mid-July, all roads will lead to I-10, pointed to Beaumont, Texas. This year will be the 30th National Junior Brangus Show (NJBS) for Roger and I to attend! Where did the time go? We have seen lots of America traveling to the NJBS every year, including West Monroe, Louisiana 11 times, Texarkana, Arkansas three times, Hattiesburg, Mississippi twice, Stillwater, Oklahoma twice, Lake Charles, Louisiana twice, and one to each of the following: Perry, Georgia; Austin, Texas; Tampa, Florida; Enid, Oklahoma; Kansas City, Kansas; Fort Worth, Texas; Waco, Texas; Duncan, Oklahoma; Bryan, Texas; and Hutchinson, Kansas. It was almost always hot, as in, we were sweating gallons type of HOT! It was always fun including reunions with friends and the making of new friends. We have Brangus family from California to Florida and Texas to Missouri, and all the spots in between. Contests have been added since our first NJBS. The barnyard olympics were added and the “dirty” fun began and the kids love it! The skill-a-thon contest tested knowledge beyond the show ring and gave the grown-ups a chance to shine. Quiz bowl has always been very competitive when you get to the last few teams. Salesmanship predicts future sales managers, ranch managers, and breeders. Livestock judging has been off and on, but certainly another great opportunity for adults to participate. The cattle judging and showmanship are constants at NJBS and the competitiveness has been never ending, also. Costume contests were added a few years ago, and some are very clever and creative, while the animals are remarkably cooperative in their costumes. The Source of Champions Sale was added, and a show for
those animals purchased in the sale soon followed. The NJBS Taste of States was added a while back, and is always a yummy representation of each state. Speech contests are of major importance to us, and we started paying a premium to the winners in each division. Also, the Greuel family has added a triple crown award of $1,000, to any junior who wins in each division junior, intermediate, and senior. We are excited to see who will be the first to win this. It’s always a very busy week indeed. The Georganne Myers Supporter of the Year Award was presented to us in 2004 by Randy Deshotel. They really surprised us! Georganne was one of those who was always on the sidelines rooting all the kids on, no matter where their home roots were. Tyler and Jessica Dean have raised the International Junior Brangus Breeders Association (IJBBA) bar to great heights! Tyler grew up through the junior program and is definitely paying the program back. We are so proud of them and their endless work. I especially enjoy seeing the second generation competing and remembering their parents in the ring years ago. It almost becomes another contest to see who looks the most like their parents. That is the greatness of the Brangus junior program, folks. The generational tradition is just so important, indeed the juniors are our future. See yall in Beaumont! P.S. As I am writing this, we are self-quarantined on the farm. I am praying for safety for each of you all, and I hope to be able to see everyone in July. God bless y’all and God bless America!
FROM A BRANGUS KITCHEN Cheesy
By Phyllis Clem 2 tbs melted margarine 1 - 8 oz. package cream cheese, room temperature 2 cans whole kernel corn, drained 1 can green chiles 1/4 cup milk Salt and pepper to taste Tony Chachere’s seasoning to taste 36
May 2020
Corn Bake
Mix and bake uncovered at 350 degrees for about 30 minutes. You can dress this up by sprinkling some paprika on top as well as some diced green onions. If you want to add a little heat a few diced jalapenos could be sprinkled on top. And sometimes I sprinkle some Frenches fried onions if I happen to have them. This is a very versatile recipe that always seems to be a hit.
37
Brangus Show Female of the Year TCR BNH HOPE 313F Triple Crown Ranch, Angleton, Texas Briana Hicks, Danbury, Texas
Brangus Show Bull of the Year GBB DEADWOOD 915E7 G Bar Brangus, Beckville, Texas
Brangus Show Dam of the Year MISS JLS ELEANOR 915Y58 Pack Ponderosa, Boyd, Texas
Brangus Show Sire of the Year SKYHAWKS PRESIDENTE Skyhawk Brangus, Tyler, Texas JLS International, Inc., Bigfoot, Texas Williams Ranch Company, Bastrop, Texas
Brangus Cow-Calf Pair of the Year MISS MS MOLLY 789E6 MP Brangus & Mason Perry, Waco Texas 38
May 2020 April 2020
Runner Up Brangus Show Female KK MISS SUPERSTAR 924F Diamond K Ranch, Hempstead, Texas Waylon Hinze, Brenham, Texas Runner Up Brangus Show Bull KL MR COMMANDER 68E K&L Brangus, La Vernia, Texas Runner Up Brangus Show Dam RBM MS STAR POWER 924X16 Diamond K Ranch, Hempstead, Texas Runner Up Brangus Show Sire SBR NIGHT TRAIN 781RZ Mill Creek Cattle Company, Puryear, Tennessee Runner Up Brangus Cow-Calf Pair KL MS. ATHENA 77UD K&L Brangus, La Vernia, Texas
39
Red Brangus Show Female of the Year CX MS DREAM HOMBRE 10F2 Cox Excalibur Brangus, Katy, Texas
Red Brangus Show Bull of the Year DOX XX’S MR BODACIOUS 33/7 Dos XX’s Cattle Co., Washington, Texas Sendero Red Brangus, Laredo, Texas
Red Brangus Show Dam of the Year DOS XX’S MISS MERCEDES Dos XX’s Cattle Co., Washington, Texas Red Bud Farms, Ben Lomond, Arkansas
Red Brangus Cow-Calf Pair of the Year CX MS LEGENDS DREAM 59/E1 Cox Excalibur Brangus, Katy, Texas
Red Brangus Show Sire of the Year TRIO’S YUCATAN 175Y TRIO Cattle & Genetics, Madisonville, Texas O B Ranch Co., Wharton, Texas New City Cattle Company, LLC, Chicago, Illinois 40
May 2020
Runner Up Red Brangus Show Female MS 5M OLIVIA 214F2 ET | Kayce Lopez, Fort Worth, Texas 5M Farms, Justin, Texas Co-Runner Up Red Brangus Show Bull KTS MR FOUNDATION 21F | KTS Cattle, New Ulm, Texas Sendero Red Brangus, Laredo, Texas Co-Runner Up Red Brangus Show Bull TRIO’S MLS RBF FRANCISCO 175F2 | TRIO Cattle & Genetics, Madisonville, Texas | El Roble Brangus, Tamaulipas, Mexico Red Bud Farms, Ben Lomond, Arkansas Co-Runner Up Red Brangus Show Dam TRIO’S MLS ZAMY 175Z2 | TRIO Cattle & Genetics, Madisonville, Texas | El Roble Brangus, Tampaulipas, Mexico Co-Runner Up Red Brangus Show Dam ROSE GOLD 101D4 | Tajo Ranch, LLC, Waller, Texas Runner Up Red Brangus Show Sire DOS XX’S PRIME TIME’S T-N-T | Dos XX’s Cattle Company, Washington, Texas Runner Up Red Brangus Cow-Calf Pair MARVEL’S KATERI 813 | Marvel Farms, High Springs, Florida
Ultra Show Female of the Year MSC OVERLOAD 329F2 GKB Cattle Company, Waxahachie, Texas
Ultra Show Bull of the Year WC UB FORTRESS 322F Wyman Creek Cattle Company, Summersville, Missouri
PICTURE UNAVAILABLE
Ultra Show Dam of the Year B3R C322 LADY Y332 X202 Wyman Creek Cattle Company, Summersville, Missouri
Ultra Cow-Calf Pair of the Year RJL MISS HULK 20E Kameron Steele, Alachula, Florida
Ultra Show Sire of the Year BWCC OVERLOAD 403A Blackwater Cattle Company, Lake Park, Georgia Vanna Farms, Royston, Georgia Midsouth Cattle, Saint Francisville, Louisiana
Runner Up Ultra Show Female SB MS SLICK 924F1 | Scamardo Brangus, Bryan, Texas Runner Up Ultra Show Bull MR TW BALL 34 | Kendra Kay Brull, Atchison, Kansas Runner Up Ultra Show Dam RBM MS RESET 924D8 | Scamardo Brangus, Bryan, Texas Runner Up Ultra Show Sire BWCC HOT SHOT 192D31 | Blackwater Cattle Co., Lake Park, Georgia Co-Runner Up Ultra Cow-Calf Pair CT SOMETHING SPECIAL 698E | Carlee Taylor, Lakeland, Florida Co-Runner Up Ultra Cow-Calf Pair MCC ELVIRA 1028E | Maxwell Cattle Company, Ponder, Texas
41
FEATURE ARTICLE
REGISTERING CALVES FROM A MULTI-SIRE GROUP by Emily Lochner, IBBA Editor; Macee Prause, IBBA Director of Genomics and Research; and Jessie England, IBBA Director of Registry Registering a multi-sire group calf may seem column. The non-registered animal feature that ominous. But just like any other task in the seedstock creates the sire group becomes the proxy sire of each business, understanding the steps is all it takes. calf, and the Regstr system will assign a DNA-prefix The IBBA registry staff is equipped to help if you number to your calf. It will look something like an R, encounter problems in the Regstr system. For tips RR, UB, or UR registration number, except it will be and tricks, check out the “video tutorials” section preceded differently, ex: DNA10436374. Register your calf as you would normally, in Regstr, and don’t hesitate to pick up the phone if including appropriate dam information, date-of-birth, you’re still having difficulties. Completing a registration for a calf born to a and birth weight records. Once the DNA clears and a multi-sire group starts with keeping ample records specific sire is assigned to each calf, the proper prefix at the time of breeding, by documenting which sires will automatically be assigned (R, RR, UB, UR, etc.). were turned out with each specific cow group. Also, The prefix is the only thing that will change. The before you turn out sires, be sure to collect DNA and actual registration number will remain the same. A few things to keep in mind initially: 1) the DNAsend into the IBBA office to be used to test against prefix is a stark reminder that the calf’s sire is still potential calves in the future. You’ll want to create a multi-sire group in Regstr, to-be-determined via DNA, 2) DNA-prefix animals ideally at the time of bull turn out, but it can be done will not receive EPDs until DNA results are received, at the time you register calves. From the home page of confirming the actual sire of the calf and, 3) DNA Regstr, click “view all my options” (as demonstrated samples cannot be processed without a registration on the page adjacent). From there, you’ll click number. Therefore, the first step is to pseudo-register “create new sire group” under the sire management your calves in the Regstr system to receive a DNAsection. You’ll want to name your sire group; it’s prefix registration number. The assigned DNA-prefix recommended to use each year, for example “2019 number should be attached to each DNA sample. The West Pasture Sire Group.” Then, if the following year system will automatically test against the sires listed you turn out a different set of sires, you can create in the multi-sire group and will determine the correct a new “2020 West Pasture Sire Group” if the sires sire. If the sire test comes back negative, remember are not the same. In the “sire listing” box, simply list that you can retest against other potential sires in the registration numbers of the sires in the group your herd for free if your dam is an active THR cow. Once the DNA results are returned and a specific and separate by commas. Once you’ve entered your sire is determined on your calf, the calf will receive its registration numbers, click “create a non-registered official registration number. Simply, the DNA letters animal.” This non-registered sire group will immediately will be replaced with the R (if black), RR (if red), UB populate in your animal inventory with a registration (if Ultrablack), or UR (if Ultrared) number such as number. When you register a calf, input the R10436374. At that time, your calf will receive EPDs designated [non]registration number in the sire as verified against its actual sire and dam.
IBBA FACTS in a flash in the past 30 days
11 New Senior Members 9 New Junior Members 1 New Associate Members 1,537 New Female Registrations 969 New Bull Registrations
42
May 2020
DNA facts & in aEPD flash bi-annual report
1,146,934 Animals in EPD Evaluation 1,513,321 Animals with Performance data 1,512,173 Animals with Complete Pedigree Information 30,629 Animals with GE-EPDs 31,329 Animals with Genomic Profiles
FEATURE ARTICLE
CREATING A MULTI-SIRE GROUP IN REGSTR 1) In order to create a MSG, you’ll need to visit your “My Options” page in Regstr.
You’ll find the necessary page under “Sire Management.”
2) Simply fill in the blanks. It is a good idea to use the ‘Animal Name’ field as a group identifier for example: West Pasture Group. When filling in the registration numbers, it is important to include all sire possibilities in or near the pasture. Groups can be as small and specific, or as general as you need them to be. Make sure you list all the sires’ registration numbers. Names and PHNs can be duplicated throughout the system. Providing the registration numbers guarantees that the correct animal will be compared as a potential parent.
Pasture or Group Identifier (ex: West Pasture Group)
Optional
This is where you will list all registration numbers separated by commas as you see below: R10337466,R10323562,R10361211
3) Click “Create Non-Registered Animal” and you’re done! When registering calves from that specific sire group, simply fill in the name of the MSG created, for example, the sire line may say “West Pasture Group,” complete with the non-registered number assigned to that specific MSG. At weaning, pull DNA on your calves, and test against the sires in that designated group. When DNA results return, the sire of the calf will automatically populate based on the sires entered in the multi-sire group. 43
AFFILIATE UPDATE
GET TO KNOW THE IJBBA BOARD
SOUTHEAST BRANGUS EVENTS STILL A GO! The Southeast Brangus Breeders Association (SBBA) Board of Directors and Executive Committee would like to take this opportunity to thank you so very much for your trust, dedication, and commitment to growing the membership base of the SBBA. To date, the SBBA has grown from 74 members in the last membership year to 136 as of current. As the new membership continues to grow the SBBA’s website, sebrangus.org, will be updated to reflect the membership in the “Find a Member” drop down tab on the website. As of now, SBBA is still planning to hold this year’s schedule of events. Since our upcoming events are towards the end of the summer and into the fall, we anticipate no delays nor interruptions with the planning, organization, and execution of them. Events include: SBBA Field Day August 21-22, hosted by Phillips Ranch, LLC in Bunnell, Florida; SBBA Youth Show September 18-19, Live Oak, Florida; SBBA general membership meeting, fun auction, banquet, and awards ceremony in Troy, Alabama on September 25; SBBA Female Sale September 26 in Brundidge, Alabama; and the SBBA Bull Sale December 5 in Uniontown, Alabama. The donation heifer, LM MS Xerox 362G, R10431506, being offered by Lake Majestik Farms is doing great! As previously mentioned, Lake Majestik Farms has committed to providing updates for a “watch me grow” type program and has provided a couple of pasture snap shots. Further updates can be viewed on our Facebook page Southeast Brangus Breeders Association. If you live in Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, or Virginia, and would like to find out more information, how to become a member of the SBBA, or for more information about our upcoming events please do not hesitate to get in touch with Michael Childers at 904.219.8746 or sebrangus@hotmail.com.
JACOB JONES 2019-2020 IJBBA Secretary
Where are you from? Stillwater, Oklahoma How old are you? 20
Where are you going to school? Oklahoma State University Are you involved in any Recently awarded my American extracurricular clubs/activities Degree in FFA. I’m also an active outside showing cattle? member of Oklahoma Collegiate Cattleman’s Association. What is your major? Agriculture Education (Or future major?) What field do you hope to Agriculture Education attain a career in? Why do you have an interest in I believe that agricultural your future career choice? education, via 4H and FFA involvement, produces the future of agriculture and I want to give back to the next generation of youth, the opportunities that I have had. How have the NJBS Showmanship has made me educational contests {public more patient and attentive when speaking, livestock judging, in the ring. showmanship, etc.} helped you become the person you are today? What is the most valuable Being patient with the show lesson you’ve learned while cattle and the judges during a showing cattle? show. What advice do you have for Get involved early. Don’t let the younger members? fear of failure stop you from trying.
44
May 2020
INVESTMENT DMR
535F40
THE $40,000 EMPIRE SON
R10386630 | Empire x WAT Ms Baxter 535C | $50/STRAW DMR Investment 535F40 is one of the best “Empire” sons to sell yet! He offers an outstanding blend of calving ease, phenotype, numerical balance, excellent performance and a reliable, proven pedigree. A great compliment to a number of Brangus females, he would also set up very well back into an Ultrablack program, making UB1’s, UB2’s or 1st Generation Brangus. Invest in your cowherd. Contact us today for semen. CED
BW
WW
YW M TM CEM
6
0.4
31
55
5
20
4.3
SC
REA
IMF
FT
0.94
0.45
-0.02
-0.036
S C SEWELL CATTLE
Owned with:
Gary Sewell, Owner | 870-814-3041 Isaiah Dark, Ranch Manager | 318-475-2638 Craig Green, Sales Consultant | 870-834-1976 El Dorado, Arkansas 45
BEAUMONT, TEXAS JULY 12-18, 2020 Host Hotel
Holiday Inn & Suites Beaumont Plaza 3950 Interstate 10 & Walden Rd ◆ Beaumont, TX 77705
$94 - Kings & Doubles ◆ $110 - Corporate Suites ◆ $119 - Executive Suites Make Reservations Online Using Group Code: NJB Or Call (409) 842-7808 Reservations must be made by July 5, 2020
Entry Forms Available Online
www.juniorbrangus.com/shows
Featuring The 2020 IJBBA Show Prospects, Embryos, Semen and More!
Thursday, July 16 at 5:30PM
www.juniorbrangus.com
46
May 2020
A proven S ource for y our next Cham pion!
10:30 pm 12:00 noon 1:00 pm 4:30 pm 7:00 pm 8:00 pm Wednesday, July 15 8:00 am
12:00 noon 1:30 pm 2:00 pm 4:00 pm 6:00 pm Thursday, July 16 8:00 am 12:00 noon 2:00 pm 3:00 pm 4:00 pm 5:30 pm Friday, July 17 7:00 am 8:00 am
12:00 noon
2:00 pm 6:00 pm Saturday, July 18 8:00 am
Breakfast with the International Brangus Queen NJBS Cattle Check-In NJBS Cattle Must Be In Place Exhibitor Orientation & Contest Check-In Lunch Opening Ceremonies Costume Contest Brangus Jeopardy (Quiz Bowl) Roger and Janet Greuel Speech Contest Hospitality Room & Silent Auction Open Stock Show U Fitting Demonstration Clinic Lunch Sullivan Supply Team Fitting & Showing Contest Judging Contest Taste of States Barnyard Olympics NJBS THANK YOU NOTES & HOTEL SURVEY DUE Champions Challenge Show Bred and Owned Shows Owned Ultra Female Show Percentage Female Show Lunch Calcutta Auction Salesmanship IBA Scholarship Workshop NJBS Family Fun Night
National Junior Owned Shows Lunch Futurity Only Cattle Must Be In Place Futurity Only Cattle Check-In & Bull Weigh-In IBA Meeting & Social Skill-A-Thon Source of Champions Sale Ice Cream Social Source of Champions Sale Animal Viewing - Bidding will be online at smartauctions.co Pancake Breakfast provided by International Brangus Auxiliary Showmanship Contests Ring A: PeeWee Ring A: Seniors & Ring B: Juniors Ring A: Novice & Ring B: Intermediate Showmanship Finals Lunch Silent Auction Closes NJBS Show Office Closes IJBBA Legacy Foundation Supreme Heifer Scholarship Showdown IJBBA General Membership Meeting, Banquet & Awards Ceremony Brangus Futurity Show Animals must be out of barn by midnight. ***ALL cattle must be in the barns by 8:00 am Tuesday through Friday. ***Cattle will be released to tie-outs at 4:00 pm Tuesday through Friday.
SCHEDULE OF EVENTS
12:00 noon 1:00 pm 2:00 pm 3:00 pm Tuesday, July 14 8:00 am
Cattle and Tack Allowed in Barns All Board & Advisors Onsite 2022 NJBS Facility Presentations IJBBA Board & Board Candidate Dinner IJBBA Board Candidate Interviews
This schedule is tentative and therefore subject to change.
Sunday, July 12 8:00 am 12:00 noon 4:00 pm 6:00 pm 7:00 pm Monday, July 13 8:00 am 9:00 am 11:00 am
47
SALE SUMMARIES
SALESummaries
GENETRUST AT SUHN CATTLE COMPANY EUREKA, KANSAS | MARCH 24, 2020
103 Yearling Brangus & Ultrablack Bulls Gross $487,850 to average $4,736.41 A national pandemic and volatile calf and fed cattle market could not dampen the spirits of industry participants in the GENETRUST at Suhn Cattle Company sale in Eureka, Kansas hosted by Vern and Vicki Suhn, as they have on the fourth Tuesday of March for nearly three decades. Bulls sold from North Carolina to California, with two-thirds of the bulls landing in the midwestern states of Kansas, Oklahoma, Missouri, and Arkansas. An offering historically known for providing breed leading herd sires, the 2020 bull battery did not disappoint. High sellers were as follows: Lot 4 from Suhn Cattle Company, Suhn’s Direct Line 30G5, commanded $27,000 for 2/3 interest and full possession from Cross N Farm, Randy and Samantha Nugent, and McDaniel Brangus, Reggy McDaniel, all of Olla, Louisiana. Lot 64, Suhn’s Business Line 416G12 from Suhn Cattle Company landed at $15,000 for 2/3 interest and full possession to Robert Vineyard, Vineyard Cattle Company of Wharton, Texas. Lot 61, Suhn’s Surge 416G11 from Suhn Cattle Company got a great home with Danny Farris, Farris Ranching Company, Tuscola, Texas for $10,000. For over a decade the GENETRUST brand has operated with eight partners, all of which feel very fortunate and blessed to have had to opportunity to do. But realizing that this is an everchanging industry, the time has come to grasp a sharper vision for the future to better serve the beef industry and a vast customer base. Taking what is viewed as the “Next Step in Trusted Genetics”, Vern Suhn of Suhn Cattle Company, Randy Schmidt of Schmidt Farms, Bill Davis of Chimney Rock Cattle Company, Nic Cornelison of Lake Majestik Farms, and Cody Gariss of Gariss Ranch have formed a new alliance called GENEPLUS. This new organization will be able to rise to fresh and more exciting levels, backed by the predictable and functional genetics, and the honesty and integrity commercial cattlemen have come to know and trust. The highlight of the fall sale season will see an ELITE offering of 150 Brangus and Ultrablack bulls, 100 registered females and 300 commercial females through the GENEPLUS at Chimney Rock Cattle Company sale November 6-7, 2020 in Concord, Arkansas. For more information on GENEPLUS, private treaty offerings, semen sales, or future sales visit www.GENEPLUSBrangus.com.
LOUISIANA BRANGUS BULL SALE MEETS READY ACCEPTANCE 38 Coming 2-Year-Old Brangus and Ultrablack Bulls grossed $117,150 to average $3,083 48
May 2020
10 Two-Year-Old Brangus and Ultrablack Bulls grossed $31,500 to average $3,150 10 Yearling Brangus and Ultrablack Bulls grossed $39,200 to average $3,920 9 Commercial Brangus Pairs grossed $19,300 to average $2,144 14 Bred Brangus Heifers grossed $17,750 to average $1,268 43 Open Brangus Heifers grossed $39,200 to average $912 58 Total Bulls Grossed $187,850 to average $3,239 Seventy-two registered buyers from four states were on hand for the first-annual Louisiana Brangus Bull and Commercial Female Sale at the LSU Alexandrea Campus. The bulls sold to a packed house and found ready acceptance throughout the day. The days top selling lot was Lot 60, BC Louisiana Purchase 263G7. This powerful performing yearling bull sold for $7,000 to Hayes Brangus, Center Point, Louisiana. He was consigned by Bushley Creek Brangus, Olla, Louisiana. McDaniel Brangus, Columbia, Louisiana purchased the days second high seller when they bid $6,900 on Lot 54, BC Majestick Beacon 9U8G3. This moderate birth weight and big performing yearling bull is out of a full sister to Guardian. He also was consigned by Bushley Creek. Lot 19, a coming two-year-old bull, BC Majestic Beacon 263F3 was the third high seller as Wiley Ranch, Deville, Louisiana paid $5,500 to own this Beacon son with off the charts growth and a big middle. He was consigned by Bushley Creek. B2K Ranch, Auburn, Alabama paid $5,000 for Lot 11, BC LA purchase 99F. This gentle, light birth, big growth coming 2-year-old was consigned by Bushley Creek. Hebert Cattle Co, Kaplan, Louisiana paid $4,750 to own Lot 29, BC Majestic Beacon 535F3. He is another son of Majestik Beacon and consigned by Bushley Creek. Marshall Brangus, Horatio, Arkansas consigned the next high seller when Lot 44, RM Swagger 872E sold for $4,500 to Womack Farms, Zachary, Louisiana. This UB 1 two-year-old bull is a calving ease and growth prospect.
OKLAHOMA BRANGUS BREEDERS SALE REPORT
23 bulls averaged $3,536 Lot 1 Vorel Innovation 40F10 sold to Lawman Ranch for $6,750 Lot 2 Vorel Aviator 361F10 sold to Bill Beams for $6,500 Lot 17 Lawman Payweight 918F8 sold to Sergio Elia for $5,000 Two highlights out of the registered female sale were: Lot 38 Vorel Ms Template 40F12 sold to Kirk Saul for $4,000 Lot 39 Vorel Ms Template 40F6 sold to Jay and Cindy Posey for $4,000
SERVICE DIRECTORY
TEXAS BRANGUS BREEDERS ANNUAL MEETING HELD VIA CONFERENCE CALL
by Jodi Jackson The Texas Brangus Breeders Association (TBBA) held their annual meeting on April 3, 2020, through a dial-in conference call offered to all TBBA members. The regularly scheduled meeting and TBBA Spring
Sale had to be canceled due to the COVID-19 outbreak. The election of officers and seating the new directors was the main order of business. The outgoing directors were recognized for their service to the board; including Doug Muenchow, Steve Densmore, and Kelly Grissom. Special appreciation was also given to outgoing president, Mike Weathers, for the work he contributed to the TBBA. The directors elected to serve a three-year term include Grady Green, Joe Fuller, Myron Saathoff, Robert Vineyard, and Ross Wilson. The 2020-2021 officers are Jodi Jackson, president; Garry Clem, 1st vice president; Phil Evans, 2nd vice president; and Joe Fuller, secretary-treasurer. Also serving on the TBBA Board are Lee Alford, Brandon Belt, Larry Gill, Buck Thomason, Matt Willey, Russ Williamson, and Mike Weathers. Frances Miller is a staff member and coordinates much of the TBBA membership enrollments, eblasts, and social media, among other duties. If you would like to become a member of TBBA, please go to our website txbrangus.org for an application and join today.
GOBRANGUS.COM
49
STATE DIRECTORY
FIND A BREEDERNEAR YOU ALABAMA — ARIZONA — ARKANSAS
GALLOWAY BRANGUS BRANGUS SINCE 1978
LARRY
cell 256-603-1945 gallowaybrangus@comcast.net
LANCE
cell 256-924-5571 gallowaybrangus@gmail.com
Farm located at Gallant, AL 35972
Big D Ranch Phillip & Beth DeSalvo 173 Miller Lane Center Ridge, AR 72027 (501) 208-6119 www.BigDRanch.net
Bill Davis • Owner • 336-210-1222 Ed Slisher • Manager • 870-612-4117 www.CHIMNEYROCKCATTLE.com
Contact Melanie Fuller at mfuller@gobrangus.com or 979.255.3343 or Jessie England at jengland@gobrangus.com for advertising spaces
50
May 2020
STATE DIRECTORY
VISIT US AT
g o b r a n g u s . c o m / b r e e d e r- s e a r c h ARKANSAS — CALIFORNIA — FLORIDA — GEORGIA — KANSAS Brangus & Ultrablack Bulls Available Now at the Ranch and the fall Brangus & angus InvItatIonal Bull sale
Sat., September 26, 2020
Tulare Co. Stockyard, Dinuba, California bull Photos anD matings: www.spanishranch.net Follow Us on Instagram @spanishranchcuyama
SPANISH RANCH Brangus and Ultrablack Cattle
THD ©
Daniel & Pamela Doiron l 805-245-0434 Cell doiron@spanishranch.net l www.spanishranch.net
For the best in Registered & Commercial Brangus
Mike Coggins (229) 232-3096 mike@bwcattle.com
Tracy Holbert (979) 255-4357 tracy@bwcattle.com
[ www.bwcattle.com ]
Contact Melanie Fuller at mfuller@gobrangus.com or 979.255.3343 or Jessie England at jengland@gobrangus.com for advertising spaces
51
STATE DIRECTORY
FIND A BREEDERNEAR YOU
LOUISIANA — MISSISSIPPI — MISSOURI — NEW MEXICO — NORTH CAROLINA — OKLAHOMA
DAVID WOOD MAGNOLIA, MS 713-539-5715
dwood@woodcorporation.com
HOME OF SINGLETARY, CITATION AND FOUNDATION
Contact Melanie Fuller at mfuller@gobrangus.com or 979.255.3343 or Jessie England at jengland@gobrangus.com for advertising spaces
52
May 2020
STATE DIRECTORY
VISIT US AT
g o b r a n g u s . c o m / b r e e d e r- s e a r c h OKLAHOMA — TEXAS
Commercial & Registered
Isaias Castillo 903-806-4711 icastillo903@yahoo.com Daniel Castillo 903-452-1052 castillotrucking903@yahoo.com
f
REGISTERED & COMMERCIAL BRANGUS
Mike & Lisa Doguet, Owners Beaumont Ranch McCoy & Poteet Ranches (409) 866-8873 Records (210) 269-3220 Regan Elmore (210) 834-0034 Timmy Lucherk, Genetics Manager (210) 834-1247 Where Performance Meets Style!
Drake Land & Cattle 398 Drake Road Quanah, Texas 79252
Cell: (832) 331-2527 Ranch: (940) 663-6143 drakeranch398@gmail.com www.drakeranch.com
est. 1924 Quanah, Texas
Contact Melanie Fuller at mfuller@gobrangus.com or 979.255.3343 or Jessie England at jengland@gobrangus.com for advertising spaces
53
STATE DIRECTORY
FIND A BREEDERNEAR YOU TEXAS
J ackson family brangus
JODI & DAVID JACKSON
Registered Red Brangus & Ultrareds show heifers, herd sires, and replacements available Megan (713) 492-6158 John (281) 740-0572 greenwoodcattleco@yahoo.com
3099 Horseshoe Bend Waco, Texas 76708 Jodi cell: 254.722.9138
jodiatbentwood@sbcglobal.net
JLS International, Inc. Where winning tradition and performance collide Brangus bulls and heifers available year-round at private treaty.
www.jlsbrangus.com Jeff Smith, Owner Myron Saathoff myronsaathoff@yahoo.com
251-947-5688 210-218-4804
MIKE SHELTON C: 713.560.8333 Colita Loop, Colita, TX 77351 www.brangusprofit.com Registered Brangus and Ultrablack Cattle
Contact Melanie Fuller at mfuller@gobrangus.com or 979.255.3343 or Jessie England at jengland@gobrangus.com for advertising spaces MikeShelton-DirectoryCard.indd 1
54
May 2020
10/19/17 7:32 AM
STATE DIRECTORY
VISIT US AT
RANCH
g o b r a n g u s . c o m / b r e e d e r- s e a r c h TEXAS Registered Brahman, Charolais and Brangus Raul Montez 832-331-6800 jraulmontez@ymail.com 39606 FM 1736 Hempstead, TX 77445 RIORANCHTX.COM
Randy Schmidt 903.278.7777
Richard Norris 903.276.1804
Schmidt Farms BRANGUS & ULTRABLACK
ZR
www.zottarelliranches.com
417-880-2839
Zottarelli Ranches Angelo Zottarelli 2156 FM 2414 Evant, Texas 76525
REGISTERED & COMMERCIAL CATTLE Mailing Address PO Box 400 Evant, TX 76525
Garrett Hinds
GOBRANGUS.COM
254-471-5675 Ranch 512-422-3123 Mobile zrbrangus@sbcglobal.net
Contact Melanie Fuller at mfuller@gobrangus.com or 979.255.3343 or Jessie England at jengland@gobrangus.com for advertising spaces
55
PROMOTE YOUR BUSINESS OR OPERATION
The International Brangus Breeders Association (IBBA) is proud to offer its members and other friends in the industry the opportunity to promote themselves through Brangus Publications, Inc.’s (BPI) and IBBA’s print and digital mediums. IBBA’s printed publications are produced by Brangus Publications, Inc., and are distributed to a mailing list, which is updated on a monthly basis. The mailing list is comprised of addresses in Australia, Colombia, Costa Rica, Mexico, Philippines, Thailand, and the United States.
ABOUT THE BRANGUS JOURNAL
Circulation: approximately 2,000 The Brangus Journal (ISSN 0006-9132) is published by Brangus Publications, Inc. (BPI), 8870 US Highway 87 East, San Antonio, Texas 78263, monthly except February, June, July and September. Periodicals postage paid at San Antonio, Texas and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: send address change to: Brangus Publications Inc., P.O. Box 809, Adkins, Texas 78101. The Brangus Journal is the official publication of the International Brangus® Breeders Association (IBBA). This internationally-distributed publication provides Brangus® seedstock producers and the IBBA membership with information about news within the association and the industry. The Brangus Journal is published eight times annually, and is designed to highlight accomplishments, advancements, and improvements made possible by IBBA members, staff, volunteers, and other industry leaders. The purpose of the Brangus Journal is to serve the best interest of IBBA members by showcasing breeding programs, efforts, and achievements to other Brangus® seedstock producers. Lastly, the Brangus Journal serves as an outlet for the IBBA to provide updates by directly communicating with the membership. The claims made by advertisers in this publication are not verified by BPI or the IBBA. BPI Officers & Board of Directors Chairman: Chris Heptinstall, President: Darrell Wilkes, Ph.D., Secretary/Treasurer: Mike Weathers Subscriptions Lori Edwards, ledwards@gobrangus.com, 210.696.8231 Subscription Rates Domestic Periodicals (one year) $25; First Class $55; Foreign Periodicals (one year) $25; air mail to Canada or Mexico $70; air mail to other countries $115. Brangus Journal Editorial Calendar January March April May August October November December distribution map
Full Color Rates Ad Size
Commercial Rate
IBBA Member Rate One Time
Annually (8 Times)
$970
$875
Full Page
$1,115
1/2 Page Island
$885
$785
$725
1/2 Page Horizontal
$855
$760
$690
1/3 Page
$735
$665
$615
1/4 Page or Banner
$652
$600
$565 $350
Service/State Directory
Black & White Rates Ad Size
Commercial Rate
Single Color Rates
IBBA Member Rate
Ad Size
Commercial Rate
IBBA Member Rate
One Time
Annually (8 Times)
One Time
Annually (8 Times)
Full Page
$775
$630
$535
Full Page
$945
$800
$705
1/2 Page Island
$545
$445
$385
1/2 Page Island
$715
$615
$555
1/2 Page Horizontal
$515
$420
$350
1/2 Page Horizontal
$685
$590
$520
1/3 Page
$395
$325
$275
1/3 Page
$565
$495
$445
1/4 Page or Banner
$312
$260
$225
1/4 Page or Banner
$482
$430
$395
Contact Melanie Fuller at mfuller@gobrangus.com or 979.255.3343 or Jessie England at jengland@gobrangus.com for advertising spaces
56
May 2020
CALENDAR MAY 2020 9 Cut Above Brangus Sale, Cullman, Alabama 17 National Junior Brangus Show Ownership Deadline JUNE 2020 1 National Junior Brangus Show Entry Deadline, Beaumont, Texas 1 Brangus Futurity Entry Deadline, Beaumont, Texas 5-6 Quail Valley Farms Premier Invitation Santa Gertrudis & Brangus Female Sale, Blountsville, Alabama 7-9 Brangus Summit Membership Gathering, Orlando, Florida CANCELED 9-11 Beef Improvement Federation Meeting, Orlando, Florida CANCELED 20 Clover Ranch Annual Sale, Cragford, Alabama NEW DATE 23-24 Florida Cattlemen’s Association Convention & Trade Show, Orlando, Florida 24-27 Texas Junior Brangus Breeders State Show, Bryan, Texas NEW DATE 27 IRBBA Annual Meeting and “Divas in Red” Sale, TAMU Beef Center, College Station, Texas NEW DATE 28 Texas Invitational Open Show, Bryan, Texas NEW DATE JULY 2020 10 Ad Reservation Deadline for August Brangus Journal 12-18 National Junior Brangus Show, Beaumont, Texas 16 IJBBA Source of Champions Sale, Beaumont, Texas 18 Brangus Futurity, Beaumont, Texas AUGUST 2020 10 Ad Reservation Deadline for Fall FRONTLINE Beef Producer 15 Western National Brangus Show Entry Deadline, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 21-22 SBBA Field Day, hosted by Phillips Ranch, LLC, Bunnell, Florida SEPTEMBER 2020 7 National Show of Merit Entry Deadline, Shreveport, Louisiana 10 Ad Reservation Deadline for October Brangus Journal 12 Thomas Cadillac of Brangus Sale, Madison, Missouri 18-19 SBBA Youth Show, Live Oak, Florida 25 SBBA General Membership Meeting, fun auction, banquet, and awards ceremony, Troy, Alabama 26 SBBA Female Sale, Brundidge, Alabama 26 Spanish Ranch Invitational Brangus & Angus Bull Sale, Dinuba, California 57
ADVERTISING INDEX
5K Cowbelle Ranch..................................................... 52 American Marketing Services................................. 7, 17 Amrich Ranch............................................................. 52 Big D Ranch................................................................50 Blackwater Cattle Company........................................51 Bobby and Bobbie Registered Brangus...................... 52 Bovine Elite, LLC........................................................ 49 Brinks Brangus @ Westall Ranches........................... 52 Burke Brangus Farm...................................................51 Bushely Creek Cattle Company.................................. 52 C&C Brangus............................................................... 53 Carter Brangus............................................................50 Cavender Ranches...................................................... 53 Char-No Farm..............................................................51 Chimney Rock Cattle Co............................................. 50 Clark Cattle Services................................................... 49 Clover Ranch.........................................................17, 50 Cox Excalibur Brangus............................................... 53 Cross F Cattle Co........................................................ 53 Cross N Farms............................................................ 52 Diamond K Ranch...................................................... 53 Doguet’s Diamond D Ranch.........................IFC, 53, BC Don Hall Brangus....................................................... 50 Don Thomas & Sons................................................... 52 Dotson, Wes................................................................ 49 Double Creek Brangus Ranch.................................... 53 Double W Ranch......................................................... 52 Draggin’ M Ranch................................................. 45, 50 Drake Land & Cattle................................................... 53 E3 Ranch LLC............................................................. 53 Far Niente Farms........................................................ 50 Farris Ranching Company.......................................... 53 Fenco Farms................................................................51 G Bar Brangus............................................................. 54 Galloway Brangus....................................................... 50 Gardner Cattle Co....................................................... 53 Garry Clem Brangus................................................... 53 GENEPLUS............................................................27-34 Genesis Ranch............................................................ 54 Giffin Farms................................................................50 GKB Cattle............................................................ 39, 54 Greenwood Cattle Co.................................................. 54 Greuel Family Brangus................................................51 Hardee Farms..............................................................51 Hi Point...................................................IFC, 37, 39, BC Indian Hills Ranch..................................................... 54 Jackson Family Brangus............................................ 54 Jacksons Double J...................................................... 50 JLS International, Inc................................................ 54 Johnston Brangus....................................................... 50 K&L Brangus............................................................... 54 K&R Broken Bar Ranch.............................................. 52 L.G. Herndon, Jr. Farms.............................................51 58
May 2020
L&W Cattle Co............................................................ 52 Lack-Morrison Brangus............................................. 52 Lake Majestik..............................................................50 Lambert, Doak............................................................ 49 Lawman Ranch........................................................... 53 Midsouth Cattle Company.......................................... 52 Mobley, Luke.............................................................. 49 Mound Creek Ranch........................................22-23, 54 MP Brangus................................................................ 54 Oak Creek Farms........................................................ 54 Oakley, Lakin.............................................................. 49 OK Farms.................................................................... 54 Old Colita Ranch......................................................... 54 Parker Brangus...........................................................50 Pennridge Ranch........................................................ 54 Perry Ranch................................................................ 53 Peterson Brangus LLC................................................ 52 Phillips Ranch........................................................35, 51 Pope Farms Brangus...................................................51 Quail Valley Farms....................................................... 7 Rafter 2 Ranch............................................................ 54 Reagan, Terry............................................................. 49 Red Bud Farms............................................................51 Rio Ranch................................................................... 55 Ritchie Industries........................................................15 Roop Cattle Co............................................................ 55 Salacoa Valley Farms...................................................51 Santa Rosa Ranch................................................... 3, 55 Scamardo Brangus...................................................... 55 Schmidt Farms........................................................... 55 Sewell Cattle Company............................................... 45 Southeast Brangus Breeders Association................... 50 Spanish Ranch.............................................................51 Starwood Ranch......................................................... 55 Suhn Cattle Company..................................................51 T3 Brangus.................................................................. 52 Tajo Ranch.................................................................. 55 The Branch Ranch.......................................................21 Town Creek Farms.......................................................13 Trio Cattle & Genetics...........................................37, 55 Triple Crown Ranch................................................... 55 Triple JR Cattle Company.......................................... 55 TTT Brangus Farm..................................................... 50 Tuna Rosa Ranch........................................................ 55 Valley View Ranch...................................................... 52 Vineyard Cattle Co...................................................... 55 VitaFerm...................................................................IBC Vorel Farms................................................................ 53 W.E.T. Farms...............................................................51 Williams Ranch Company............................................ 9 Wynne Ranch..............................................................51 Zottarelli Ranches....................................................... 55
59
60
May 2020