March 2022 Brangus Journal by International Brangus Breeders Association

Brangus MARCH 2022

March 2022

CON TACTS 8870 U.S. Highway 87E, San Antonio, Texas 78263 • P.O. Box 809, Adkins, Texas 78101 210-696-8231 • Fax 210-696-8718 • info@gobrangus.com • gobrangus.com IBBA BOARD OF DIRECTORS President Allen Goode, Texas 1st Vice President Vern Suhn, Kansas 2nd Vice President Jeremy Jackson, Arkansas Secretary/Treasurer Mike Weathers, Texas East Region Trey Cuevas, Purvis, Mississippi treycuevas3@yahoo.com Chris Heptinstall, Marianna, Florida cgstall@yahoo.com Jeremy Jackson, Gentry, Arkansas jjackson101@gmail.com Rob Singleton, Seville, Florida singletons2002@yahoo.com Texas Region Lee Alford, Caldwell, Texas alfordcattle@aol.com Mary Douglass, Seguin, Texas twoheartsbrangus@yahoo.com Allen Goode, Mabank, Texas allen@triocattle.com Mike Weathers, Columbus, Texas mikeweathers@msn.com West Region Troy Floyd, Roswell, New Mexico tfloyd@leaco.net Shiloh Hall, Okmulgee, Oklahoma shiloh518@yahoo.com Greg Romans, Vale, Oregon romansbrangus@yahoo.com Vern Suhn, Eureka, Kansas vern@geneplusbrangus.com At-Large Randy Schmidt, M.D., Texarkana, Texas doctorrand@me.com MEMBER OF

@gobrangus | #gobrangus

IBBA STAFF Executive Vice President Darrell Wilkes, Ph.D., dwilkes@gobrangus.com Controller Brian Sadovsky, bsadovsky@gobrangus.com Director of Registry Jessie England, jengland@gobrangus.com Registry and Records Assistant Callie DeLarm, cdelarm@gobrangus.com Director of Genomics and Research Macee Prause, mprause@gobrangus.com Director of Shows & Youth Activities Lori Edwards, ledwards@gobrangus.com Member Services Mandie Sadovsky, msadovsky@gobrangus.com Product Manager Andrew Sicotte Jr., asicotte@goregstr.com Senior Software Developer Marcel Vieira, mvieira@goregstr.com Software Developer Raul Ramos, rramos@goregstr.com BRANGUS PUBLICATIONS, INC. STAFF Advertising Sales, Melanie Fuller mfuller@gobrangus.com, 979-255-3343 Brangus Journal Publications, Inc. Editor Lighthouse & Co. Communications editor@gobrangus.com IBBA COMMITTEE CHAIRMEN Awards Shiloh Hall, Okmulgee, Oklahoma Breed Improvement Randy Schmidt, M.D., Texarkana, Texas Commercial Marketing Craig Green, Floral, Arkansas Finance Mike Weathers, Columbus, Texas International Marcos Borges Jr., Wharton, Texas Long Range Plan Tracy Holbert, College Station, Texas Membership Brandon Belt, Gatesville, Texas Promotion Joe Fuller, Willow City, Texas Show Gina Gill, Beckville, Texas IJBBA Advisory, Brandon Belt, Gatesville, Texas

INTERNATIONAL BRANGUS AUXILIARY BOARD President Brenda Brull, Atchison, Kansas 1st Vice President Tina Gardner, China Spring, Texas 2nd Vice President Ginger Pritchard, McLoud, Oklahoma Secretary Mary Beth Farris, Tuscola, Texas Treasurer Janet Greuel, Brooks, Georgia Historian Jodi Jackson, Waco, Texas Social Media Coordinator Jennifer Walker, Ben Lomond, Arkansas INTERNATIONAL BRANGUS FOUNDATION BOARD President Brandon Belt, Gatesville, Texas Secretary/Treasurer Darrell Wilkes, Ph.D. Allen Goode, Mabank, Texas Chris Heptinstall, Marianna, Florida Tracy Holbert, College Station, Texas Traci Middleton, Puryear, Tennessee Cindy Blazek, Leona, Texas David Wood, Magnolia, Mississippi Nic Cornelison, Flat Rock, Alabama INTERNATIONAL JUNIOR BRANGUS BOARD 2021-2022 IJBBA Board of Directors President April Villarreal, Brookshire, Texas Ex-Officio Jacob Jones, Stillwater, Oklahoma Queen Payge Dupre, Florida Director Briana Hicks, Danbury, Texas Director Jaxon Allen, Haworth, Oklahoma Director Samuel Belt, Gatesville, Texas Director Tyler Towns, Bryan, Texas Director Jayden Pinkston, Shefner, Florida Director Kaily Warren, Lufkin, Texas

Brangus MARCH 2022

March 2022

Cover photo Garrett Thomas, Hi Point Sales and Marketing Inside photos by Michell Helm, GKB and Rodrigo Cervantes.

association

OKLAHOMA BRANGUS SPR ING SA L E

•M AR CH 2 6 T H •

MCA LEST E R STOCKYAR DS | NO O N | M CAL ESTE R , O K ULTRA BLACK & BRANG US B UL LS AND FE M AL ES A N D A SE T OF FANCY CO M M E R CIAL FE M AL ES

Lot 8: 804H7 | He Sells!

Lot 10: 575H | He Sells!

Lot 60-70: Bred Commercial Heifers | They Sell!

FOR CATA LOG REQUESTS A N D M O R E INFOR MAT ION: SHILOH HALL: 918.798. 1337 @OKLAHOMABRANGUSASSOCIATION 6

March 2022

Lot 7: 804H5 He Sells!

KTS MS BARBARA 23H sired by TX HOME RUN 76/D Grand Champion - 2020 Western National & National Show of Merit Reserve Grand Champion - 2021 The International & Cattlemen’s Congress

KTS MS JENNA 135H2 sired by TX HOME RUN 76/D Grand Champion - 2021 Cattlemen’s Congress

KTS MS DIXIE 800H sired by TX HOME RUN 76/D Grand Champion - 2021 Cattlemen’s Congress Junior Show & Cowgirl’s in Cowtown Junior Heifer Show Reserve Champion Jr. Heifer Calf - 2020 Western National & National Show of Merit

Brangus MARCH 2 0 2 2 / VO LU M E 7 0 / I S S U E 2

IN EVERY ISSUE 10 14 22 62 68 70 71 76 77

PRESIDENT’S PERSPECTIVE EXECUTIVE CORNER CATTLEFAX TRENDS BRANGUS VALUE PROJECT FRIENDS WE WILL MISS SERVICE DIRECTORY STATE DIRECTORY CALENDAR AD INDEX

FEATURED

18 EPDOLOGY

A new monthly feature focuses on understanding EPDs better so that breeders can use this powerful technology to the fullest extent. Readers are invited to submit EPD questions for future columns.

26 GENE EDITING – IS IT A REALITY?

This is no longer a “theoretical” concept. Gene editing is being done to some extent by seedstock producers. It will likely get much more attention in the years ahead. Seedstock producers will be well-served by understanding the possibilities and limitations of gene editing.

36 THE IMPLICATIONS OF A BREED’S 8

March 2022

MATURE WEIGHT

The breeds with the heaviest mature cows might surprise you. Mature cow weight is an economically relevant trait and one that stirs intense debate among producers. When is more not necessarily better?

42 7&7 SYNCH

An update on an estrus synchronization protocol that shows great promise for use on indicus-influenced cows. Will better synchronization options boost A.I. use in Brangus?

48 CATTLEMENS CONGREES SHOW RESULTS 52 GENETIC EVALUATIONS, HISTORY AND IMPROVEMENTS: PART 1 – GENOMIC RELATIONSHIPS A less obvious but important benefit of genomic technology is the ability to accurately quantify the true genetic relationships among siblings. Not all full sibs, for instance, are 50% related to one another. Factoring this into genetic evaluation is one more way that genomic technology improves EPD computation.

56 CATTLEFAX 2022 INDUSTRY OUTLOOK

The CattleFax Outlook is normally offered only to those who attend the Outlook Session at the NCBA Convention. Because of IBBA’s close working relationship with CattleFax, the most advanced cattle market analysts in the business, we are able to provide you with the fact-filled Outlook for 2022.

SUHN’S MAJESTIK BEACON 30C SUHN’S TRAIL BOSS 30B3 TJM THREE D 302A SUHN’S SYNERGY 416E23 SUHN’S FOUNDATION 331Z28 SF BRICKHOUSE 909D9 SUHN’S BUSINESS LINE 30D26

SUHN’S BLUEPRINT 2H SUHN’S EPIC 331D16 SUHN’S SURGE 416G11

VOREL ABSTRACT 25E9

SUHN’S TTT LM SIGNAL 30E13

GENEPLUS 9

PRESIDENT’S PERSPECTIVE

IT’S A SMALL WORLD AFTER ALL by Allen Goode, International Brangus Breeders Association (IBBA) president “It’s a Small World After all” …We are all familiar with this harmonious jingle made famous by the Disney theme parks. Written for the exhibit by the same at the 1964 New York World’s Fair, its spirit is one of international unity, peace, and brotherhood. I often use the phrase “Brangus World” to refer to the collection of countries, associations, and environments where Brangus cattle and genetics are found. While there are many miles that separate us as Brangus breeders, the fact is that we are a “Small Brangus World” with more in common than we realize. For several decades modern day technologies have allowed for the sharing of genetics across miles and borders. Today, with the evolution of genetic evaluations, Brangus as a worldwide breed, strives to be recognized for our inherent and genetically-developed performance and quality that is backed by data. The breeders and members of the International Brangus Breeders Association (IBBA) have invested significantly in DNA testing and genetic evaluation in generations upon generations of cattle. Due to the focus, the IBBA is at the forefront of the Brangus world when it comes to the depth and breadth of our genetic evaluation capabilities. Our Brangus comrades and their national associations look to us for leadership, direction and advancement of our breed. They have embraced our cattle and genetics due to focus we have placed on their quality and performance and importance of reliable data to back them up. Over the course of 2021 and 2022, the IBBA has engaged with several country associations to develop a framework for joint genetic evaluations. Evaluations that will provide more data to them on a higher number of traits and evaluations that will include the benefit of the IBBA genetics that are already in their national herd books. As these projects develop, the discussions are progressing to the commissioning of our Registr program. These are all steps to link our Brangus world closer together for the expansion and success of Brangus, Red Brangus and

March 2022

Ultra genetics globally. Even with these initiatives, the completion and further development of Registr and servicing the needs of the IBBA membership is and will always be the number priority of the Board of Directors and the administration. As the IBBA executes the objectives and initiatives of our Long-Range Strategic Plan, endeavoring to lead the Brangus world is also a necessity for our progress and future. As this is the International edition of the Brangus Journal, I want to extend our deep appreciation to our Brangus brothers and sisters beyond our borders. We all learn from one another when we collaborate in the campaign of elevating the name of Brangus in the global beef industry. Back here at home, I offer to my fellow IBBA members, that we are also a “Small Brangus World After All” as well. We have our state lines and changes in environments. However, we are an association of purebred cattle breeders working to prove and promote the merits of the breed we all raise in a vast industry. Certainly, there is competition amongst us to market our cattle and genetics. But I wholeheartedly believe that for our breed and association to thrive and be everything we envision it to be, each one of us must seek the greater good of Brangus, Red Brangus and Ultras. This is defined by working side by side together to launch projects such as the Brangus Vigor tagging program, collaborate to obtain much needed data from the Brangus Value Project, attend our association meetings and shows and give of our talents in the IBBA committees and regional associations. As we begin a new year in the IBBA, I strongly encourage every member of a Brangus membership to apply to an IBBA committee. Consider where your interests lie and commit to contributing to the furtherance of the IBBA and expansion of Brangus. Your creative ideas and fresh inputs are the inspiration for all that the IBBA sets as initiatives and goals. Working together with a vision to make Brangus the most sought-after Bos Indicus breed in the industry. Go Brangus!

783J | R10480764 | Born 9/1/21 | BW: 75 lbs. Prime x Passport Daughter CED BW WW YW Milk TM CEM SC REA IMF FT Stay 5.8 0.3 20 37 12 22 3.6 .14 0.27 .00 -.036 .22 Calf at side of three-in-one selling!

WRC Ms PrIme 21G12 | R10436659 | Born 11/9/19 Prime x Ali Daughter CED BW WW YW Milk TM CEM SC REA IMF FT Stay 4.7 0.8 23 42 10 22 3.9 .33 .33 .03 -.037 .19 Bull calf born 1/28/22 by Double Play 803F13 I BW: 75 lbs.

WRC Mr Marksman 518H | R10457526 | Born 12/8/20 WRC Mr Prime 129H9 | R10456139 | Born 11/22/20 Prime x Presidente Daughter Marksman x Elixir Daughter CED BW WW YW Milk TM CEM SC REA IMF FT Stay CED BW WW YW Milk TM CEM SC REA IMF FT Stay 4.3 1.9 30 62 12 28 3.7 .30 .69 .05 -.022 0.73 6.6 0.6 27 52 10 23 3.7 .40 .49 .16 .023 .98

WRC Mr Tequila 180H4 | R10455816 | Born 11/5/20 Tequila x On Star Daughter CED BW WW YW Milk TM CEM SC REA IMF FT Stay 4.4 1.8 34 56 10 27 3.2 .44 .64 -.15 -.037 1.22

WRC Ms Duke 909G5F | R10432948 | Born 9/9/19 Duke x Presidente Daughter CED BW WW YW Milk TM CEM SC REA IMF FT Stay 6.3 0.6 35 69 7 25 3.2 .86 .60 -.02 -.045 .73 Heifer calf born 12/7/21 by Marksman 23F I BW: 70 lbs.

april 23, 2022 spring Female produCTion sale 100 regisTered Females Cavender’s neChes river ranCh neChes river ranCh road • JaCksonville, TX

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March 2022

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0.29

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0.72

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0.34

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0.34

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-0.036

4.07

0.66

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EXECUTIVE CORNER

The ElevatorSpeech

by Darrell Wilkes, Ph.D., International Brangus Breeders Association (IBBA) executive vice president Have you ever heard about the “elevator speech”? It is a term used to describe a 30-second encounter with a potential customer. It’s the amount of time you would normally be in an elevator together. You have 30-seconds to get somebody’s attention. Thirty seconds to summarize how your product can improve the customer’s business. You may have heard of the same concept, but it was called the “business card test”. This simply means that you should be able to summarize the advantages and benefits of your product on the back of a business card. As Brangus breeders, if challenged with the elevator speech or the business card test, what are we going to say? If you ask me, these are our bullet points: • Brangus cows thrive in harsh environments – they produce longer and deliver more calf payweight. • Brangus deliver heterosis without a complex crossbreeding program. • Beef from Brangus meets the high quality expectations of the modern beef industry. This list will be complete when we can add just one more bullet point: “Brangus feeder cattle bring premium prices.” When we can truthfully state that and back it up with data, then your elevator speech will be complete and demand for Brangus bulls will be off the charts. I firmly believe that the only thing holding us back as Brangus breeders is ACCOUNTING. I am confident that we can show any producer in harsh environments that a Brangus cow will out-produce a straightbred British cow by at least $100 per year – and more like $2,500 in the life of a cow. Instead of producing 7-8 calves, they’ll produce 10, thereby reducing the second largest cost in a cow-calf operation -- cow depreciation cost. When it turns hot, a Brangus cow and her calf will graze and the calf will grow while other cattle are standing in the shade or the pond – and not grazing or growing. Because both the bulls and cows can handle the harsh environment through their inherent thermotolerance, they are less stressed and will deliver higher rates of reproduction – fewer open cows, fewer late calvers, more calves weaned, more pounds to sell. While none of this is rocket science, it takes a rather sophisticated recordkeeping system and significant number crunching to validate the extra $100 per cow per year that a Brangus cow will deliver to your bottom line vs. a British cow, especially a straightbred British cow. The $100 per cow per year is absolutely there, it’s just hard to “see”. Contrast this to the easy math that a producer can do in 14

March 2022

their head when they see their good Brangus calves bring a few cents per pound less than an Angus or SimAngus calf at the local auction barn. It is very easy to multiply 600-lbs times 5-cents per pound. That’s $30/hd discount. Because this number is obvious, it tends to overshadow the less obvious (but real) $100 per cow annual advantage of a Brangus cow. In very plain English, there are thousands of producers in harsh environments who are trading $100 per cow in lost production for $30 of calf revenue. Obviously, that’s not a good trade. The solution to this problem is to eliminate the “eared discount” that Brangus feeder calves tend to get – along with all other eared feeder cattle. There are two components to this solution: 1) differentiate genuine Brangus calves from the mix of “black with a touch of ear” calves that are often referred to as Brangus in the marketplace, and 2) continuously gather data from feedlots and packers comparing the feeding performance

EXECUTIVE CORNER and carcass value of genuine Brangus to other cattle in the pipeline or the industry averages. IBBA is pursuing this solution, and you play the key role. The first part of the solution is to make the Brangus Vigor feeder calf program grow and grow and grow. We’re just getting started with this, and it is going to take effort by many Brangus breeders to actually make it happen. A group of Brangus breeders in Arkansas recently put together about one hundred Brangus Vigor calves that were sold on the same day at the North Arkansas Livestock Auction. The USDA Market News reporter said that the Brangus Vigor calves came within a few cents per pound of the top Angus calves to sell that day. That’s pretty good, but not good enough. We believe they are worth every penny of what a good Angus calf is worth. My theory is that if they would have had 500-hd, or 1,000-hd instead of 100, more buyers would have been at the sale and they would have bid the Brangus Vigor calves up to the top of the market. The breeders who put this together, Mr. Giffin, Dr. Dickey, Mr. Singleton and Mr. Jackson stuck their necks out a bit to pull this off. Now, having experienced it firsthand, they will come up with a list of things to do better and can begin planning the next Brangus Vigor calf sale with a much higher headcount in mind. This is how programs like Brangus Vigor become big deals – people make it happen at the local level! Is your local auction market progressive? Do they host

value-added or “special” feeder calf sales? If so, you will likely find a very open attitude on their part to put together a Brangus Vigor sale. Call them. Ask for a meeting. You and your fellow breeders will need to recruit consignors (your bull customers) and you’ll need to put in some extra effort, but it will be worth it. Commercial producers who may be contemplating a Brangus bull (or should be contemplating a Brangus bull) will be attracted to the energy, enthusiasm and confidence that you display in Brangus genetics. The second part of the solution is to continue gathering feedlot and carcass data on Brangus cattle. There is no substitute for real data. There are some IBBA members who are retaining cattle through the feeding and packing phase and then publishing their data – right in their sale catalog! That is a clear show of confidence in their genetics. We need to compile this information and get it in front of feedlots and packers. When we explain the Science of Brangus to them, and show them how Brangus are totally different from a typical Angus X Indicus cross, then we will have their attention. IBBA’s Long Term Planning Committee envisioned a strategy of boosting demand for genuine Brangus feeder cattle. The IBBA Commercial Marketing Committee took the concept and turned it into a program. Now, what is needed is for Brangus breeders to step to the plate and make something happen in your area. Go Brangus!

ing a of d l i u b e We'r

a r e w ne

10E4

crossfit x ms resource

23 H & 23H3

big lake x svf patton

30G3

never surrender x ms three d

Don’t miss the rare opportunity to invest in a flush out of 3 cows of this caliber at our

Inaugur al Production Sale March 12, 2022 at the ranch in Bunnell, FL 14750 CR 305, Bunnell, fL 32110 Tim Phillips, Owner Rob Singleton, Manager 770.862.0983 Singletons2002@yahoo.com 16

March 2022

Offering 60 One of a kind Lots! 23H62

406J2

541J5

30J3

big lake x miss creole patra

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23H116

atlanta x patton

26H12

Big lake x miss dusty

Atlanta x patton

never surrender x new vision

hrbert hoover x coronado

541J3

30J9

big lake x three d

Schedule of Events

Friday, March 11, 2022

10:00 am Cattle available for viewing 12:00 noon Lunch 4:00 pm Phillips Ranch & Facilities Tour 6:00 pm Steak Supper Served 7:00 pm Entertainment by Paul Bogart Band

broadway x nuff said

Saturday, March 12, 2022

8:00 am 10:00 AM 11:00 Am 12:00 noon

Cattle available for viewing Phillips Ranch & Facilities Tour Lunch Sale Time!

Special thanks to our consignors:

Gold Creek Brangus ACE L. G. Herndon Jr. Farms Cross F Cattle Company Quail Valley Farms Draggin M Ranch T3 Brangus Fenco Farms Vanna Farms 17

FEATURE ARTICLE

EPD-OLOGY by Darrell Wilkes, Ph.D., International Brangus Breeders Association (IBBA) executive vice president Beginning with this issue of the Brangus Journal, we present the first of a monthly series on the basics of Expected Progeny Differences (EPDs). We receive emails and phone calls every week from members and non-members seeking a clearer understanding of EPDs and how to use them. This is an open invitation for members to submit your questions about EPDs. Send your emails to dwilkes@ gobrangus.com. Don’t be bashful. There is no such thing as a dumb question. IBBA is blessed with a number of members who understand EPDs at a very deep level. I (Darrell Wilkes) don’t want to be the only one answering your questions. So, we will recruit your fellow breeders to respond to your good questions about EPDs. Don’t be surprised to see your neighbor or friend as the author of an EPDology article. EPD Lesson #1: The most important equation in animal genetics: P = G + E Even though there is a lot of very complex math that goes into EPD calculations, the most important equation is very easy to understand. Understanding this simple equation is the key to appreciating the true value and power of EPDs. The letter “P” represents “phenotype”. “G” stands for “genetics” and “E” stands for “environment”. Hence, the full equation is: Phenotype = Genetics + Environment. This is the very first lesson in any textbook about animal genetics – or at least it should be. Phenotype represents anything that we can measure or observe. In this context, it is not limited to what an animal looks like. It also includes its birth weight, weaning weight, hip height, ultrasound data, etc. Anything that can be measured or weighed qualifies as a phenotype. Cattle breeders observe extreme variation in phenotypes within their herd every year. Take weaning weight for example. When adjusted to 205 days of age and corrected for cow age, it is very rare to find a herd where weaning weight from top to bottom differs by less than 100-150 lbs. That is a huge difference. The most obvious question is, how much of that difference is due to genetics and how much is due to environment? How much is due to the maternal effects of the dam, and how much is due to the genes that the calf actually inherited? The honest answer is: we don’t know for 18

March 2022

sure how much is due to genetics and how much is due to environment. The best we can do is estimate the effect of each factor. In essence, that’s what EPDs do. They sort out the non-heritable environmentally-caused variation from the variation that is likely due to genetics. A simple example of two young bulls from two different herds helps to illustrate the lesson. The example is real. It comes from another breed, but the example is legitimate. Bull Calf A, from Herd A Bull Calf B, from Herd B Weaning Weight 985 lbs. Weaning Weight 638 lbs. WW EPD +66 WW EPD +60 What? The early-life EPDs on these two bulls suggests that their progeny will only differ by 6 lbs of weaning weight when bred to similar cows and raised in the same environment. How can this be when the actual weaning weights differed by 347 lbs? This cannot be right. The EPDs must be wrong. Each of these bulls was purchased by an A.I. stud and semen was sold into dozens of herds. Hundreds of progeny weaning records were submitted. Oddly, Bull B ended up with a high accuracy WW EPD of +63 and Bull A ended up with a high accuracy WW EPD of +63. Clearly, Herd A provided a much better environment for weaning growth than did Herd B. Perhaps Bull A lived in a creep feeder and was a milk thief – nursing every cow that would stand for it. Bull B never saw a creep feeder and didn’t realize that he could steal milk. The point is, even though the environments were grossly different and the phenotypes were grossly different, the actual genetics for weaning growth were virtually identical. Very importantly, this outcome was actually predicted by the initial WW EPDs which were only 6 lbs apart. Bottom line: EPDs sort out the environmental effects from the genetic effects. They sort out the G from the E in The Most Important Equation in Animal Genetics. Next month, unless a reader sends a more compelling question, EPDology will explain the difference between additive genetic variance and non-additive variance. It is important because the additive component is the only one that is predictably passed from one generation to the next.

March 2022

CATTLEFAX TRENDS

ENTERPRISE ACCOUNTING AND KPIS With another year ending, it is a good time for producers to evaluate the performance of their operation. As the cattle markets and industry become more volatile and complex there has never been a more critical time to measure and improve an operation. While there is a ton of data points available at the cow-calf segment, gathering the information can be a challenge. Still, there are several key production indicators that are fairly simple to collect that every herd should be analyzing. In the cow-calf business there are two general categories, financial and production, the data can fall into. While most are updating the books for tax season, there are different approaches to analyze the financial position of an operation besides what is reported in tax files. One method that is often recommended for internal use is managerial accounting. This allows businesses to compile and compare information that aligns more closely with their specific demands, as opposed to those outside of the organization. Because there are a lot of moving parts for a cow-calf operation, it can be difficult to calculate accurate costs that are directly tied to the cowherd. One recommendation to consider is separating the total operation into different enterprises. This method can be very detailed depending on the operation. However, a few simple examples will be discussed to give producers an idea how this process may look. Often a cow-calf operation has several different potential profit centers, besides just the cowherd itself. For example, if an operation raises its own hay, the cowherd and hay production should be two separate enterprises on paper. Consequently, costs and revenue will need to be correctly allocated to each respective enterprise. This allows the operation to better understand which part of the organization is most profitable, or which area is costing the most money. A tractor and employee may be used to care for the cowherd, while also putting up hay a few months out of the year. Expenses from that employee and tractor should show up in reports for both the cow-calf and hay enterprise, instead of expensing the entire salary against the cowherd, for example. Obviously, there will be a long list of other costs for each, but this is a good way to calculate what is the cost of production, especially for the hay enterprise. This will help 22

March 2022

with the decision regarding whether it is better to put up your own hay, custom bale it, or purchase hay. To measure profitability, revenue is obviously necessary. If calves are not sold at weaning, use a realistic price to represent what the income would be for the cow-calf enterprise at weaning. It is recommended that if calves are backgrounded or retained that becomes a new enterprise. The cost of production, or the market value of the hay, can be used for income if it is recorded consistently each year. If cost of production is utilized, the hay enterprise will never show a profit, rather it will always be a breakeven business. If the market value is used, and exceeds cost of production, that would represent the opportunity cost. Regardless of which value is selected, the hay enterprise charges that amount to the cow-calf business when hay is fed. That amount would show up as a line item on the expense report for the cow-calf enterprise. The same applies to the backgrounding enterprise if calves are retained and the ranchraised hay is incorporated in the ration. Because calves are removed from the cow-calf business at weaning, in the scenario that has been laid out, heifer development would be an additional enterprise for operations that retain replacements. This structure would be very similar to a backgrounding enterprise, except the sale or marketing price and timing is not as cut and dry for replacements. Some might recommend the female is still in the developing phase until her first calf is born, or even weaned and sold. Others might apply her to the cow-calf enterprise sooner. Nonetheless, applying the same methodology each year is necessary. Understanding the cost structure to develop a heifer is important when making decisions regarding the cowherd. An operation can break out as many different enterprises as necessary. Another one that may be considered, especially depending on how much of the grazing land is owned, is a custom grazing enterprise. This business would essentially charge the cow-calf enterprise a lease rate. That rate could be as simple as the land payments. If the land is paid off, a realistic value for that area can be used, which would represent the opportunity cost. Again, it is important the method used is consistent over time.

CATTLEFAX TRENDS Like the many various ways a ranch can do managerial accounting, there is a long list of production metrics an operation can collect and analyze. While it may seem rather easy to keep track of, inventory is the most important variable for both financial and production analysis. Having an accurate headcount gives operations the ability to break costs down to a per head basis. On the production side, cow inventory at different times of the year is often the base for many calculations. One of the most popular calculations used to measure the productivity of a herd is weaned calf crop percent, or calves weaned per cow exposed. The math is simple by dividing the number of calves weaned by the total cows exposed in the prior breeding season. This is a good starting point to see whether there are any potential fertility, health, or nutrition concerns in the cowherd. Also, tracking conception rates after breeding, and calving percent will provide an earlier glimpse of these trends and help track where the greatest losses occur. While mother nature has a significant impact on weaning weights, recording weights over time can be used to track historical long-term trends and in other production measurements. Pounds weaned per cow exposed, calculated similar to weaned calf crop percent, allows an operation to evaluate growth performance, while also encompassing other productivity metrics – making it one of the most important key production indicators. A simple yet very important metric is stocking rate. Combine this with measured annual rainfall or percent normal rainfall, and it helps producers respond to drought quickly and effectively to put the operation in a better position for both the short and long term. A couple other data points an operation may consider collecting is calf birthdates and cow age. These two variables can be especially useful for operations that retain their

own replacements. An older cow that consistently calves early in the calving season, implies she has bred back on time to maintain a shorter calving interval. This suggests that female possesses better maternal and fertility genetics. Obviously, other factors need to be considered when selecting replacements or culling. However, with fertility or reproductive efficiency being the single most important economic trait for a cow-calf operation, these two variables can be beneficial to track. CattleFax provides producers with different resources to help evaluate operations. A very detailed breakeven calculator is available online at www.cattlefax.com/ccbe/. This specific calculator analyzes the cow-calf enterprise. However, a similar layout can be used for other enterprises within an operation. CattleFax also collects national and regional benchmarking data by conducting an annual producer survey. More information about how to participate and receive the results can be found on the front page of this article. The saying “you can’t manage what you don’t measure” has never been more relevant in today’s fast-paced environment. With tight margins affecting the cow-calf segment, thoroughly collecting, and analyzing data to make better business decisions can be extremely beneficial. Understanding where an operation excels from an efficiency standpoint, and where there is room for improvement can pay huge dividends. An operation may also find that a specific enterprise is underperforming and dragging down the total operation’s bottom line. Correcting some potential issues may come at a cost. However, having both production and financial data will help prove whether it is worth it to make major corrections. While an operation doesn’t need to do a complete overhaul of its current accounting and record keeping system, making minor adjustments can provide significant value and insight.

March 2022

FEATURE ARTICLE

GENE EDITING – IS IT A REALITY? by Darrell Wilkes, Ph.D., International Brangus Breeders Association (IBBA) executive vice president The term “gene editing” has been kicked around for several years and may have created more confusion than enlightenment. The thought of it might also create some anxiety among seedstock breeders who fear that their many years of selection and traditional genetic improvement could be leap-frogged by some mad scientist in a lab. I have had conversations with breeders who fear that such technology will result in a complete restructuring of the seedstock industry such that large biotech companies will “take over” the seedstock business. The fear is that the biotech giants will hold patents on certain genes or gene combinations and everybody else will be reduced to multiplying their genetics under a license agreement. Simply put, such fears are unfounded. If one considers the broad spectrum of what is generally called “genetic engineering” and create a scale of one to ten with one being the most simple and basic applications and ten being the most extreme (almost science-fiction like) applications, gene editing would be scored a 1. Gene editing, as used in reference to cattle, will not create any genetic characteristics that could not otherwise be created through normal breeding strategies. An example may help explain the simple nature of gene editing. As most cattle breeders now know, DNA is made up of nucleotides. There are only four them in DNA. They are Adenine, Thymine, Guanine and Cytosine – and are

March 2022

abbreviated with the first letter of each – A T G C. The sequence of these letters provides the instructions for making a specific protein. A gene is nothing more than a string of these letters. For the sake of simplicity, let’s assume the following sequence of nucleotides codes for black hair color: A A T T C C G G. Let’s assume that the gene for red hair color is A T A T C C G G. The only difference is that the second and third letters are switched. One application of gene editing is to simply cut the DNA strand with special chemical scissors and literally switch the order of the letters. This is truly an edit. It is not unlike editing a misspelled wrod (word). In this simple example, it does not involve inserting a gene from a different breed or even a different animal from the same breed. It simply rearranges the nucleotides that are already there and it creates a gene variant (allele) that already exists – in this illustration, a gene for red hair. Does this mean that you can create a Red Brangus from a Black Brangus, for example? Yes, that can be done. The rest of the story is what I have discovered is confusing to people. How does this “micro surgery” of DNA change the color of an animal? It does not change the color of the source animal. The process requires that a new animal be created with the edited DNA. There are a couple ways to do this, but a common one is through cloning, which is already a proven and commercially available technology. You take a regular

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FEATURE ARTICLE (continued from page 26)

body cell (a somatic cell) from the animal that you want to clone. Next, you edit the DNA similar to the example above. You then put the edited cell into an egg where the nucleus of the egg has been removed – stated more clearly, the DNA that was in the egg is taken out and the edited somatic cell is inserted. The egg now becomes an embryo. Nine months later, a calf is born. It will be genetically identical to the source animal with the exception of the hair color gene. If the source animal was black, and the red edit was performed, then the new animal will be red and will breed like any naturallyoccurring red animal. Some breeders have already created a red clone of a black Angus bull. The calf is too young to be a parent, but it will soon be old enough to produce semen and the breeders will surely mate that animal to some red Angus cows to see if it really works. There is absolutely no reason to think it will not work since the edited gene is identical to the naturally occurring red gene in red cattle. Gene editing was discussed in several seminars during the 2021 Beef Improvement Federation conference in Des Moines. One of the traits frequently mentioned in connection with gene editing was heat tolerance. It should come as no surprise that every breed that does not have a dose of Bos indicus genetics would like to be able to edit a couple genes and create cattle that match the heat tolerance of Brangus without dealing with the indicus influence. One gene in particular is called the “slick” gene and creates a slick and sleek hair coat that helps animals regulate internal body temperature in hot/harsh environments. The “slick” allele occurs naturally in Senepol cattle. USDA researchers in Florida showed that animals with the “slick” gene and the corresponding sleek hair coat were able to maintain a body temperature 1-degree Fahrenheit lower than cattle without the gene. Before Brangus breeders get too worried about a single

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gene edit having the ability to make Angus, for instance, as heat tolerant as Brangus, it must be pointed out that virtually every complex trait is affected by dozens if not hundreds of small gene effects. Heat tolerance or, more accurately, thermoregulation, is certainly a complex trait. Editing one or two genes in Angus is very unlikely to impart the same level of thermoregulation ability that Brangus cattle naturally possess. Still, it is important for Brangus breeders to understand that heat tolerance (thermoregulation) is seen as a potentially highly rewarding target for gene editing research. You can expect to read and hear much more about this in the years ahead. Gene editing is not without some challenges from a regulatory standpoint. If edited animals or their progeny are prevented from entering the food chain, the technology will die a sudden death. Currently, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has regulatory authority over the food products produced from “genetically engineered” animals. Even in those cases where the edit is very simple and straightforward, not to mention naturally-occurring, such as the black-to-red edit, FDA will ultimately decide if such edited animals (and/or their progeny) are safe to enter the food supply. At present, FDA is evaluating this on a case-bycase basis. A final point of interest on gene editing involves breed association policy. Obviously, in the beef industry, the animals most likely to be edited are animals that already have a comprehensive genetic evaluation and are believed to have very high genetic value for the traits included in the evaluation. These are registered animals. Hence, breed associations will be faced with a decision on how to handle gene-edited animals. Can they be registered? If so, how should they be “earmarked” as either an original edit or the progeny of an edited animal. IBBA’s Breed Improvement Committee will be addressing this issue in the coming months.

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FEATURE ARTICLE

THE IMPLICATIONS OF A BREED’S MATURE WEIGHT by Dr. Bob Hough Table 1. Breed effects for mature weight adjusted for selection for 16 breeds evaluated in the Germ Plasm Evaluation program at the USMARC, Clay Center, NE. Units are expressed in pounds deviated from a Brangus base. Breed Angus Red Angus Beefmaster Brahman Brangus Braunvieh Charolais Chiangus Gelbvieh Hereford Limousin Maine-Anjou Salers Santa Gertrudis Shorthorn Simmental

Direct breed effect for Mature Weight 108.2 9.6 -43.2 61.1 0.0 -192.5 88.6 11.7 -37.2 69.7 12.9 27.0 53.6 41.5 -24.2 34.5

If a producer wants to get a good conversation going, all he or she needs to bring up is cow size, and varying opinions of what is the right size cow will come fast and with conviction. Using selected facts, which expert they listened to last, what direction the sands of social media are blowing, or just what they are used to raising, will generally arm a person with just enough information to justify whatever their preconceived notion is. In reality, whether you are considering biological or economic efficiency, efficient cows come in all sizes. However, to be considered an efficient cow there are two initial standards that must be met. First, they have to match the environment in which the cow herd is going to be asked to perform. Second, they have to produce a calf every year that will meet a carcass window with the pounds and quality to be profitable. Above all in the second criteria, their progeny’s carcasses must avoid the large discounts for noncompliant carcasses that are too heavy and especially too light. The matrix of variables that determine the genetic needs for a cow herd include management, feed resources and market, and in what environment they will be expected to perform. This results in continuum of biological types that includes the most appropriate genetic potential for mature weights and production traits that are right for each 36

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individual operation. There are also many well-known “truths” that might have been correct 35 years ago, but don’t hold up to scientific scrutiny today. One of these is the mature size of different breeds in relationship to each other. Luckily, we have the U.S. Meat Animal Research Center (USMARC) in Clay City, NE where some of the most talented geneticists in the world have been running a Germ Plasm Evaluation (GPE) program for the past 52 years, which describes the biological properties of the various breeds. In 2021, the USMARC and University of Nebraska scientists released the long-awaited mature weight comparisons for the 16 breeds involved in the USMARC’s GPE project. The results are shown in Table 1 and for the purposes of this article are expressed as deviation in pounds off of the average mature weight of Brangus. These results came from the analysis of 108,957 weights taken at different stages of production within a year as repeated measures on 5,156 cows measured over a series of years. First, the average weight of this population was a hefty 1,430 pounds. Because different breeds are represented in the population at different frequencies, this average weight doesn’t equate to a particular breed but instead the whole population. Rather than an average weight, these results are represented as comparisons, which USMARC typically does with Angus as the base, but for the purpose of this article, Brangus was used as the base. Also, the heritability of mature weight in this study was high at 0.56, meaning it is a trait that will respond readily to selection. When one just looks at where Brangus ranks among the breeds, they definitely come across today as a moderate breed, with most breeds’ cow size being larger than Brangus. This is an interesting breed position, as those whose memories stretch back to the frame race in the 1980s know that Brangus was a full participant, which gave them a reputation as having some big cattle during that era. Next some general observations. Gone are the days when one could make blanket statements that Continental breeds made the biggest cows and the British breeds the most moderate. If anything, the relationship tends to be the opposite now, with by far the largest mature cows being Angus and the third largest are Herefords. On the other end, Braunviehs had by far the smallest cow size and other breeds like Gelbvieh, Limousin and even Simmental have moderated considerably. There are considerations when deciding what is the most appropriate cow size, and one of the most important is feed resources. In population genetics, as growth increases mature

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FEATURE ARTICLE (continued from page 36)

size tends to increase in a correlated manner. There is also the relationship between mature cow size and carcass weight to contemplate. The industry has experienced the trend to increase carcass size. This increased weight is due to genetics for larger carcasses, as well as a change in carcass composition as we are making these cattle fatter than we were 10 to 15 years ago. Now let’s break this down to what it means at a commercial cow calf operation. In four major Western commercial databases including SPA out of the Southwest and CHAPS in the Northern Plains, commercial weaning weights have been flat for the last 10 to 20 years. Despite this, the seedstock industry continues to linearly increase preweaning growth potential and cow size. This is mostly due to the high influence of Angus on the nation’s commercial cow herd population, which now tops all breeds for growth and mature weight. This results in some commercial operations buying bulls that overshoot the mark for preweaning growth potential past what an environment will allow to be expressed. So, the end result is the same feeder cattle payweight, but from a cow herd that is significantly bigger and more expensive to feed. Not a scenario for profitability. Be cautious when reviewing actual performance data. Just because a seedstock operation’s weaning weights are continuing to rise maybe explained by virtue of them running their herd in a better environment than their commercial customers. Therefore, weaning weight genetic predictions should be looked on as a threshold trait, which each operation

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March 2022

should select for the correct amount of growth potential to fit their operation. Too much growth potential will result in expensive cows to feed and decreased reproduction and longevity. Too little growth potential, and a producer will not gross enough income to make it work. Objectively, Brangus appear in a good place and it is important to keep the breed there. How the cattle are marketed also impacts ideal cow size. If all progeny from a commercial operation are going to be calf fed, then a larger cow is called for as there is a fairly close relationship between cow size and slaughter weight of fed progeny. However, if the calves are going to go through a backgrounding phase, cow size can moderate some and still result in the same heavy carcass weights. If the cattle are to be extensively stockered, like grazing wheat pasture, then cow size can be further moderated to produce the desired heavy carcasses. Best not hit the guard rails where cattle are extreme large or small that they only have one route to be marketed. Over the long run, having flexibility built into herd in terms of how you can market your calves will generally pay. Another consideration is whether a cow herd is being managed in an environment where heat retention or dissipating heat is higher priority. In most environments in the U.S., retaining heat is the major consideration, which is related to metabolic body weight. Metabolic body weight is body weight raised to the .75 power and is representative of body surface and maintenance costs. When body weight is adjusted to metabolic bodyweight, the amount of body surface per pound is fractionally less the bigger the animal is. That means in most environments, it is energetically more efficient for a cow to maintain its body temperature and to meet maintenance requirements per hundred weight on a larger rather than smaller cow, all other things being equal. However, in some regions of the U.S., many of which are target markets for Brangus, dissipating heat is the major concern, so the larger amount of body surface per pound associated with a comparatively smaller cows is more efficient. Having the extra hide associated Bos-indicus cattle also provides more surface area per pound to dissipate heat. IBBA EVP Dr. Darrell Wilkes might have put it best to think about the proportion of body surface in relation to body weight as being analogous to the size of the animal’s radiator that can remove heat. The old judging team axiom to evaluate animals as they compare to a universal ideal just no longer makes sense in our multifaceted industry. The bottom line is there are no right or wrong answers when it comes to mature weight; there are only scenarios in which the cattle must work. Each of those scenarios is a matrix of environmental, management, feed resources and market that will determine the correct production for various traits, including mature size, for an individual operation. It is also important as an industry to recognize how we continue to benefit from the work of USMARC scientists who keep us informed about the current state of germ plasm that each breed represents.

March 2022

FEATURE ARTICLE

7 & 7 SYNCH:

AN OPPORTUNITY FOR YOUR COW HERD? by Jordan Thomas, Ph.D., University of Missouri state beef reproduction specialist | INTRODUCTION | Whether you are striving to raise elite seedstock or highquality commercial calves, a major goal of your operation is— or should be—getting as many cows pregnant as early in the breeding season as possible. Estrus synchronization protocols are a proven tool to do just that. These protocols skew the distribution of when cows conceive during the breeding season, and use of the right protocol can offer the opportunity to carry out an artificial insemination (AI) program in a straightforward manner. What genetics could you access in a straw that you might not otherwise be able to purchase on the hoof? In our program at the University of Missouri, we have placed a high level of emphasis on research efforts to better control the estrous cycle prior to fixed-time AI. One improved protocol in which we have found great success is the 7 & 7 Synch protocol. In the last year, this protocol has been widely adopted across the United States (and in some locations abroad) as a method to improve conception rates resulting from AI in postpartum beef cows. Estrus synchronization protocols have been used to facilitate the use of reproductive technologies for decades, so what’s the benefit of a new protocol? When protocols are used to enable use of fixed-time AI or embryo transfer (ET), the goal is to generate a fertile, highly synchronous period of estrus expression among the largest possible proportion of cows. Cows expressing estrus are better candidates for ET and more likely to conceive to AI. Results from extensive evaluation indicate that 7 & 7 Synch achieves this goal, with significant increases in both the proportion of cows expressing estrus and the number becoming pregnant as a result of either AI or ET. With just one additional shot and one additional handling of cows, the increased pregnancy rates achieved with

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7 & 7 Synch make it an attractive option for producers in many contexts. | HOW IT WORKS | Many protocols for control of the bovine estrous cycle rely upon an initial administration of gonadotropinreleasing hormone (GnRH) to induce ovulation. However, administration of GnRH at a random stage of the estrous cycle only results in ovulation in approximately two-thirds of the cows (sometimes less), as successful induction depends on the presence of a physiologically mature follicle. Since a mature follicle is only present during certain windows of time within the estrous cycle, it is not guaranteed that a cow will ovulate when GnRH is administered. In cases in which ovulation is successfully induced, a new or accessory corpus luteum (CL) is formed and a new ovarian follicular wave is recruited after ovulation. However, when ovulation is not successfully induced, little control is afforded over stage of cycle. That variation among cows’ response ultimately goes on to result in varied timing of onset of estrus and, as a result, varied timing of ovulation. With 7 & 7 Synch, a simple, single-step approach offers more control over stage of cycle before GnRH administration. At the start of the protocol, a shot of prostaglandin (PG) is given to induce luteolysis, and insertion of a controlled internal drug release (CIDR) device maintains a low level of progesterone, preventing estrus/ovulation as well as atresia of a dominant follicle. This sets up more cows to have a mature follicle present when GnRH is administered, increasing the likelihood of successfully inducing ovulation. From the herd level, greater uniformity in ovarian response among cows leads to a larger proportion of cows expressing estrus in a very narrow window

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FEATURE ARTICLE (continued from page 42)

of time prior to AI. That’s a good thing if performing timed AI or if intending to transfer embryos. | RESULTS | Large-scale field trials conducted in our program at the University of Missouri compared use of 7 & 7 Synch to the commonly used 7-Day CO-Synch + CIDR protocol. A collaborative trial with Cross Country Genetics in Westmoreland, Kansas evaluated efficacy in ET recipients on 13 producer operations with over 1,300 postpartum beef cows. With 7 & 7 Synch, 86% of cows expressed estrus following synchronization, compared to the 76% observed with the 7-Day CO-Synch + CIDR. Of those synchronized with 7 & 7 Synch, 40% became pregnant following ET compared to the 34% of the 7-Day CO-Synch + CIDR synchronized cows that became pregnant. A follow-up trial in our program evaluated field fertility of both sex-sorted and conventional semen for AI of over 1,500 postpartum beef cows in 11 herds across multiple states. Following 7 & 7 Synch, 82% of cows expressed estrus prior to fixed-time AI, compared to 64% of cows following the 7-day CO-Synch + CIDR protocol. It is pretty exciting to see that kind of a heat response prior to fixed-time AI, and pregnancy rates did not disappoint. Pregnancy rates were 72% with conventional semen or 52% with sexed semen following 7 & 7 Synch, compared to 61% with conventional semen

March 2022

and 44% with sexed semen following the 7-day CO-Synch + CIDR protocol. | FOR SURE | Thorough published data using 7 & 7 Synch has primarily been collected in postpartum Bos taurus cows. We continue to be cautious about use of this protocol in virgin beef heifers especially. Of course, given the struggles of synchronizing estrus among Bos indicus-influenced cows, we have received a number of questions about use of 7 & 7 Synch in that biological type. Both purebred and composite Bos indicus breeds are more challenging to successfully induce to ovulate in response to GnRH, and it is possible the treatment schedule of the 7 & 7 Synch protocol could address this challenge. Certainly, we are aware of a number of Brangus producers achieving good results with the 7 & 7 Synch currently, but published information is lacking. A preliminary research effort organized collaboratively by our program at the University of Missouri and Dr. Pedro Fontes’ program at the University of Georgia recently evaluated the ovarian response of Bos indicus¬-influenced cows following 7 & 7 Synch and Bee-Synch II (sometimes called the Bos Indicus PG 5-day + CIDR protocol). Those preliminary evaluations were encouraging, but of course largescale controlled experiments are needed. For more information on the 7 & 7 Synch protocol, a University of Missouri Extension publication is available online.

March 2022

SHOW RESULTS

OPEN & PEN SHOW

Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

PEN JUDGE: Richie Oakes, Taloga, Oklahoma

Grand Champion Female Rafter L Jay Lo 157H8 Lucherk Cattle, Poth, Texas

Reserve Champion Female PP Miss Mi Amor 915J9 Pack Ponderosa, Boyd, Texas

Grand Champion Red Female KTS Ms Barbara 23H KTS Cattle, New Ulm, Texas KO’s Cattle Service, Waxahachie, Texas

Reserve Champion Red Female GKB MISS CORTEZ 204J4 GKB Brangus, Desdemona, Texas

Grand Champion Ultra Female WC Miss Happy Hour 406H6 Wyman Creek Cattle, Summersville, Missouri Lazy 3 Cattle, Tomball, Texas

Reserve Champion Ultra Female GKB MS Recover 390H GKB Cattle, Desdemona, Texas

Grand Champion Cow-Calf Pair 2159 KK Miss Inspire 157G6 GKB Cattle, Desdemona, Texas

Grand Champion Red Cow-Calf Pair CX MS LEGENDS DREAM 71G Villa Ranch, Brookshire, Texas

FEMALE DIVISIONS Junior Heifer Calf Champion: PP Miss Mi Amor 915J9, Pack Ponderosa, Boyd, Texas Reserve Junior Heifer Calf Champion: GT Ms Tank 804J4, Eris Basey, Florence, Texas Senior Heifer Calf Champion: Rafter L Jay Lo 157H8, Lucherk Cattle, Poth, Texas Reserve Senior Heifer Calf Champion: MC Rheta 101H7, Mill Creek Land & Cattle,

Puryear, Tennessee Summer Champion Heifer: SJCC Hennessey 804H8, Roxton Stone, Stanton, Texas Reserve Summer Champion Heifer: Miss BH Danielle 334H, Briana Hicks, Danbury, Texas Yearling Champion Heifer: Rafter L One Wish 150H6, Lucherk Cattle, Poth, Texas Reserve Yearling Champion Heifer: PP Miss Vivian 915H2, Pack Ponderosa, Boyd, Texas

OPEN JUDGE: Tim Fitzgerald, Sullivan, Indiana

March 2022

RED FEMALE DIVISIONS Red Junior Heifer Calf Champion: GKB MISS CORTEZ 204J4, GKB Cattle, Desdemona, Texas Red Reserve Junior Heifer Calf Champion: GKB MISS VELVET 204J8, GKB Cattle, Desdemona, Texas Red Senior Heifer Calf Champion: MS Broken A Harlow 841H4, Lazy 3 Cattle, Tomball, Texas, Circle T, Central Point, Louisiana, Lone Star Ranch, Okeechobee, Florida Red Reserve Senior Heifer Calf Champion: MP Miss Reba 38H45, April Villarreal, Brookshire, Texas, Sendero Red Brangus, Laredo, Texas, TRIO Cattle & Genetics, Mabank, Texas Red Summer Champion Heifer: KTS Ms Jenna 135H2, KTS Cattle, New Ulm, Texas, KO’s Cattle Service, Waxahachie, Texas Red Reserve Summer Champion Heifer: Villa’s Ms Fantasy 957H10, Villa Ranch, Brookshire, Texas Red Yearling Champion Heifer: KTS Ms

CATTLEMEN’S CONGRESS OPEN SHOW

SHOW RESULTS

Grand Champion Bull MP MR MAGNUM 804J65 MP Brangus, Waco, Texas

Reserve Champion Bull SB RISKY BUSINESS 924J15 Scamardo Brangus, Bryan, Texas

Grand Champion Red Bull MCC Hot Shot 72H Maxwell Cattle Company, Ponder, Texas

Reserve Champion Red Bull GRC George L. 101G Diamond M & Marcela Garza, New Waverly, Texas

Grand Champion Ultra Bull MC Ranger 924H9 GKB Cattle, Desdemona, Texas

Reserve Champion Ultra Bull MCC Hard On The Rocks 1149H Maxwell Cattle Co., Ponder, Texas

Barbara 23H, KTS Cattle, New Ulm, Texas, KO’s Cattle Service, Waxahachie, Texas Red Reserve Yearling Champion Heifer: Ms Broken A Harper, Audrey Acord, Madisonville, Texas Red Senior Champion Heifer: Ms Sendero Galaxy 59G8, Sendero Red Brangus, Laredo, Texas, TRIO Cattle & Genetics, Mabank, Texas Red Reserve Senior Champion Heifer: TX Ms Home Run 76/G1, Tanecka Ranc, Columbus, Texas ULTRA FEMALE DIVISIONS Ultra Junior Heifer Calf Champion: MCC Miss Dixie 17J, Payton Hanson, Dayton, Texas Ultra Reserve Junior Heifer Calf Champion: OCR Party Line 487J, Old Colita Ranch, Houston, Texas, Allen Cattle Company, Crockett, Texas Ultra Senior Heifer Calf Champion: WC Miss Happy Hour 406H6, Wyman Creek Cattle, Summersville, Missouri, Lazy 3 Cattle, Tomball, Texas Ultra Reserve Senior Heifer Calf Champion: MP Miss Avi 158H, Mason Perry, Waco, Texas Ultra Summer Champion Heifer: WL Miss Kimora, Briana Hicks, Danbury, Texas Ultra Reserve Summer Champion Heifer: AK Ms Daisy 082H, Brull Brangus, Atchison, Kansas Ultra Yearling Champion Heifer: GKB Ms Recover 390H, GKB Cattle, Desdemona, Texas

Ultra Reserve Yearling Champion Heifer: Hannah, Savannah Hanson, Dayton, Texas BULL DIVISIONS Junior Bull Calf Champion: MP Mr Magnum 804J65, MP Brangus, Waco, Texas Reserve Junior Bull Calf Champion: SB Risky Business 924J15, Scamardo Brangus, Bryan, Texas Senior Bull Calf Champion: ACC Howdy 358H, Allen Cattle Company, Crockett, Texas Reserve Senior Bull Calf Champion: Villa’s Mr Dynamite 74H6, Villa Ranch, Brookshire, Texas Yearling Champion Bull: MC Trust Fund 95H2, Mill Creek Land & Cattle, Puryear, Tennessee, Trust Fund Syndicate Reserve Yearling Champion Bull: WRC MR ELEGIDO 7134H, Williams Ranch Company, Floresville, Texas, KO’s Cattle Service, Waxahachie, Texas Senior Champion Bull: MP Mississippi 74G1, MP Brangus, Waco, Texas Reserve Senior Champion Bull: MP Mr Hydro 767G3, MP Brangus, Waco, Texas RED BULL DIVISIONS Red Senior Bull Calf Champion: Dos XX’s Dynamite’s Hercules, Dos XX’s Cattle Company, Brenham, Texas Red Reserve Senior Bull Calf Champion: TRIO’s FFF Huracan 101H3, TRIO Cattle & Genetics, Mabank, Texas, Genetica Triple F, Tepatitlan, Jalisco, Mexico

Red Summer Champion Bull: KWM Mr Creedmore Yucatan, Kayden Mascheck, Eagle Lake, Texas Red Reserve Summer Champion Bull: TX Dream Forever 68/H1, Tanecka Ranch, Columbus, Texas Red Yearling Champion Bull: MCC Hot Shot 72H, Maxwell Cattle Company, Ponder, Texas Red Reserve Yearling Champion Bull: Broken A Hefner 841H, GKB Cattle, Desdemona, Texas Red Senior Champion Bull: GRC George L 101G, EEDM Show Cattle, New Waverly, Texas Red Reserve Senior Champion Bull: CX Dream Changer 41G, Cox Excalibur Brangus, Katy, Texas ULTRA BULL DIVISIONS Ultra Junior Bull Calf Champion: MCC Jet Stream 5561J, Maxwell Cattle Company, Ponder, Texas Ultra Reserve Junior Bull Calf Champion: LM Cryptocurrency 803J2, Wyatt Jackson, Gentry, Arkansas Ultra Summer Champion Bull: MCC Hard on the Rocks 1149H, Maxwell Cattle Company, Ponder, Texas Ultra Yearling Champion Bull: MC Ranger 924H9, GKB Cattle, Desdemona, Texas GROUPS Champion Produce of Dam: MP Brangus, (continued on page 50)

SHOW RESULTS JUDGE: Christy Collins, Frederick, Oklahoma LOCATION: Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Grand Champion Female SJCC Hennessey 804H8 Roxton Stone, Stanton, Texas

Reserve Champion Female ACC Justice 674J3 Katherine Allen, Crockett, Texas

Grand Champion Red Female MCR Trio’s Harmony 255/1 Ethan Rexroth, Anderson, South Carolina

Reserve Champion Red Female Dos XX’s Prime’s Miss Holly Savannah, Hanson, Dayton, Texas

Grand Champion Ultra Female MCC Miss Dixie 17J Payton Hanson, Dayton, Texas

Reserve Champion Ultra Female Hannah Savannah Hanson, Dayton, Texas

FEMALE DIVISIONS Heifer Calf Champion: ACC Justice 674J3, Katherine Allen, Crockett, Texas Reserve Heifer Calf Champion: PP Miss Mi Amor 915J9, Emma Tittor, Paradise, Texas Junior Heifer Champion: SJCC Hennessey 804H8, Roxton Stone, Stanton, Texas Reserve Junior Heifer Champion: Rafter L Jay Lo 157H8, Maddox Hartmann, Falls City, Texas Senior Heifer Champion: Rafter L Lexi 157H, Eris Basey, Florence, Texas Reserve Senior Heifer Champion: Rafter L One Wish 150H6, Maddox Hartmann, Falls City, Texas RED FEMALE DIVISIONS Red Heifer Calf Champion: Dos XX’s Prime’s

Miss Holly, Savannah, Hanson, Dayton, Texas Red Reserve Heifer Calf Champion: KTS Ms Valentine 135J1, Cheyenne Durheim, Spring, Texas Red Junior Heifer Champion: MCR Trio’s Harmony 255/1, Ethan Rexroth, Anderson, South Carolina Red Reserve Junior Heifer Champion: MP Miss Reba 38H45, April Villarreal, Brookshire, Texas Red Senior Heifer Champion: KTS Ms Dixie 800H, Truitt Marks, Waxahachie, Texas Red Reserve Senior Heifer Champion: Ms Broken A Harper, Audrey Acord, Madisonville, Texas

ULTRA FEMALE DIVISIONS Ultra Heifer Calf Champion: MCC Miss Dixie 17J, Payton Hanson, Dayton, Texas Ultra Reserve Heifer Calf Champion: Miss Broken A Jewel 14J, Audrey Acord, Madisonville, Texas Ultra Junior Heifer Champion: WL Miss Kimora 701H, Briana Hicks, Danbury, Texas Ultra Reserve Junior Heifer Champion: MP Miss Avi 158H, Mason Perry, Waco, Texas Ultra Senior Heifer Champion: Hannah, Savannah Hanson, Dayton, Texas Ultra Reserve Senior Heifer Champion: Suhn’s Ms Businessline 416H49, Emily Jackson, Gentry, Arkansas

(continued from page 49) Waco, Texas Champion Junior Get of Sire: GKB Cattle, Desdemona, Texas Champion Senior Get of Sire: GKB Cattle, Desdemona, Texas Champion Breeders Herd: GKB Cattle, Desdemona, Texas

Red Champion Produce of Dam: GKB Cattle, Desdemona, Texas Red Champion Senior Get of Sire: GKB Cattle, Desdemona, Texas Red Champion Breeders Herd: KO’s Cattle Service, Waxahachie, Texas PEN SHOW Grand Champion Pen of Three Females:

GKB Ms Hercules 767J8, GKB Ms Killshot 329J4, GKB Ms Kill Shot 329J12 GKB Cattle, Desdemona, Texas Reserve Champion Pen of Three Females: Mp Miss Katy 767J12, MP Miss Elly 767J, MP Miss Candy 804J8 MP Brangus, Waco, Texas

March 2022

FEATURE ARTICLE

GENETIC EVALUATIONS, HISTORY AND IMPROVEMENTS: PART 1 – GENOMIC RELATIONSHIPS by JR Tait, Ph.D., director of genetics product development, Neogen Genomics, Lincoln, Nebraska and Jamie Courter, Ph.D., beef product manager, Neogen Genomics, Lincoln, Nebraska Genetic evaluation systems which brought us Expected Progeny Differences (EPDs) leverage variations in performance of individual animals from their contemporaries and expected relationships between those individual animals based on the pedigree relationship amongst animals. These expected relationships are both the average relationship and the most commonly observed relationships. However, the fact that each calf inherits a random half of the sire’s DNA combined with a random half of its dam’s DNA means that the true relationships between animals may equal those expectations, or they may be different. The benefit of genomics is that they tell us what those relationships actually are between individual animals instead of an assumption.

The pedigree expected relationship between all full sib calves is that they share 0.50 (50%) of their DNA with each other. This expectation is often correct, but in reality there is variability around that expectation. In Figure 1 the relationships between calves within some of the potential calf combinations are: Calf 1 to Calf 2 = 0.50; Calf 1 to Calf 3 = 0.50; Calf 1 to Calf 4 = 0.00; Calf 2 to Calf 3 = 0.00; Calf 2 to Calf 4 = 0.50; Calf 3 to Calf 4 = 0.50. In this case Figure 1 only shows 4 potential calves, which are only 25% of the 16 possible combinations of calves. There are (number of pairs chromosomes)2 combinations of the chromosomes possible from each parent; in this example that is 22 = 4 chromosome combinations from the sire and 4 combinations

Figure 1. Chromosomal inheritance example simplified to 2 pairs of chromosomes. In these examples the chromosome on the left is from the sire of the individual and the chromosome on the right is from the dam of the individual. 52

March 2022

FEATURE ARTICLE of chromosomes from the dam. When the 4 possible chromosome combinations from the sire are considered with the 4 possible chromosome combinations from the dam, that leads to 16 (4sire x 4dam) possible calf chromosome combinations. When you get into real animals, there are many more pairs of chromosomes than just 2 as represented in Figure 1. In those cases of many pairs of chromosomes, the relationships between full sibs are no longer classified as 0.00, 0.25, 0.50, 0.75, or 1.00. A real example of the observed relationships amongst a population of over 15,000 full sib chickens is presented in Figure 2. There is a slight shift to be below the expected 0.50 relationship, but most animals are close to the pedigree estimate of 0.50 relationship amongst full sibs. What I take away is that around that expected relationship, there is a noticeable amount of variability which is possible and does exist in these groups of animals. Many times, full sibs are genetically quite similar, but occasionally they can be quite diverse. The extension of this concept goes to the grandparent generation relationships to calves as well. The pedigree expected relationship between each calf and the four grandparents is 0.25 for each grandparent. By looking at Figure 1 and recognizing that the colored chromosomes in the sire and dam are ordered with grand sire of calves on the left and grand dam of the calves on the right for each chromosome pair, we can characterize the true relationships between calves and some of the grandparents. In this example the relationship between Calf 1 and the paternal grand sire = 0.50 (red and yellow chromosomes both came from the sire’s sire) and the relationship between Calf 1 and paternal grand dam = 0.00 (green and gray chromosomes were not transmitted to Calf 1). In another example the relationship between Calf 4 and the paternal grand sire is 0.00 (red and yellow chromosomes were not transmitted to Calf 4) and the relationship between Calf 4 and the paternal grand dam = 0.50 (green and gray chromosomes both came from the sire’s

dam). The other possibilities are not shown in Figure 1, but red chromosome 1 inherited with gray chromosome 2 would represent 0.25 proportion of genetic material in common with each of the paternal grandparents. Likewise, green chromosome 1 inherited with yellow chromosome 2 would represent 0.25 relationship between the calf and each of the paternal grandparents. Through this article, the intention is to show gratitude for the power of the genetic evaluations which were based on expected pedigree relationships. However, I hope that it also shows how the biology of Mendelian inheritance introduces deviations from those assumptions which can be characterized with genomic profile tools. Cattle breeders who leverage the data and tools provided from pedigree relationships in the genetic evaluation have shown that tremendous progress can be made. As tools such as genomics allow more precise characterizations of relationships amongst animals, even more progress will be possible.

Figure 2. Distribution of genomic relationships for 15,748 full sib genomic tested chickens. Adapted from: Lourenco et al. (Genet Sel Evol 47, 56, 2015) 53

March 2022

CATTLEFAX TRENDS

2022 INDUSTRY OUTLOOK

February 2022

Executive Summary: Moving Into a Growth Mindset Cattle price and profitability trends for producers are pointed in the right direction, even as challenges and uncertainty persist with continued disruptions from the pandemic. The market-ready cattle supply is more balanced entering 2022 as pandemic-related carryover has been minimized and three years of cowherd contraction have added less cattle to the system. Issues around labor and packing capacity have lingered, but both are expected to improve through 2022. Expansions, additions, and newbuild packing investments have been announced to increase packing capacity in coming years. An additional 2,500 head/day is planned

to be in use by late 2022 and another 8,000 head/day or more is in various stages of planning. These expansions in capacity will help foster growth in the cattle and beef industry. Global and domestic demand has strengthened and is expected to continue to increase over time, which should bring more dollars into the industry. Even as cattle supplies and leverage cyclically shift, more money flowing into the system suggests room for more profitability across segments and allows for a more stable and healthier industry.

La Niña remains firmly in control of the ocean-atmosphere system, and that is unlikely to change this spring; however, it remains possible that there will be some changes throughout summer. The latest set of analog years resulted in about a dozen potential best-fits. Of those, roughly one-third remained in La Niña for another year, another third transitioned into a neutral phase, and the remaining turned into El Niño by the following summer and fall. NOAA’s data suggests there will only be slight warming in parts of the Equatorial Pacific – meaning more La Niña on the way, and European climate modeling suggests neutral conditions as the Pacific begins to warm. Out of these solutions and analog-year indicators, the lean is more toward a continued La Niña to neutral phase and with a lower probability of a true El Niño forming this summer, fall remains to be seen.

With that said, the drought situation across southern Brazil to Argentina remains an issue. Conditions across Australia will remain favorable. In western Mexico, the monsoon should develop by late spring and spread northward toward the U.S. In Canada, there is the influence of troughing to keep the weather variable. For the U.S., barring any change to the La Niña outlook or sudden warming in the Gulf of Alaska, dryness continues across the Southwest and South with warm temperatures, too. The Northern Plains and Corn Belt are expected to have wetness farther east this spring and drier conditions for this summer, with temperatures closer to normal versus 2021. Although the climate effects of the recent Tonga Volcano are currently unknown, it bears watching this year.

Extended Range Weather Outlook

Become a CattleFax Member Today! Producer memberships start at $225 per year. Visit booth 2733 to discuss membership levels and benefits with an analyst during the Cattle Industry Convention & NCBA Trade show. Everyone is welcome to visit the booth this week to talk with analysts about the markets or discuss weather patterns with our weather analyst Matt Makens.

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March 2022

Feed Grains and Energy

CATTLEFAX TRENDS

Oil and Energy

• Average crude oil prices in 2021 ended 73 percent higher than 2020, with average prices forecast another 20 percent higher in 2022. • Expect COVID-19 related demand and production challenges to continue to add volatility. • Labor constraints and supply chain issues will continue to delay new well activity in early 2022. • Global production will be comparably higher by mid-year, balancing stocks-to-use levels for the first time since the pandemic began. • OPEC+ output will increase through 2022, working to reach pre-pandemic capacity and regain a slim margin of market share from U.S. exporters • WTI crude oil is expected to average $84/barrel, with a forecasted range between $66 and $108/barrel in the next year.

Corn • The USDA Annual Crop Production report estimated corn 2021 planted acres at 93.4 million acres with 91.4 percent of acres harvested. Corn yield was a new record at 177.0 bushels per acres, placing production at 15.1 billion bushels. • For this year, exports are expected to remain large yet expanded interest from China could easily push exports higher. • Expect current corn stocks-to-use levels to continue to support the market near $5.50/bu. and providing resistance near $6.40 into the summer. Less acres or production issues could open the topside of the market. • With the expectation of normal weather next spring, CattleFax is forecasting planted acres at 91.8 million, with a trendline yield expectation of 180 bu./acre for the 2022 planting season. • Current market year stocks to use are estimated at 10.4 percent, and the forecast for new crop stocks-to-use is 10 to 12 percent. Any issues on the production side due acres or yield being below expectations will be met with strong demand. • Summer weather patterns – and their effect on corn yields – will be the focus of market participants throughout the growing season this summer.

Soybeans • The January WASDE showed U.S. Soybean ending stocks-touse at 8 percent. This is a 2.3 percent increase from the year prior, building off record production in 2021. • Soybean acres are expected to remain near steady at 87.2 million acres for the 2022/23 market year. • With 52.0 bu./acre yield stocks to use would be between 7-9 percent given current demand expectations. • Expect spot soybean futures to trade in a practical range of $13 to $16/bu. for the next 12 months.

Hay and Forage • Dec. 1 on-farm hay stocks were down 6 percent nationally from the previous year, at 79 million tons. • All-hay prices averaged near $176/ton in 2021, and 2022 average prices should be steady to $10 higher due to tighter supplies and stronger demand. • Weather risk is likely to continue influence hay prices with much of the central plains and West battling some level of dryness or drought.

www.cattlefax.com 57

CATTLEFAX TRENDS

Supply & Demand Supply

• U.S. cattle inventories have fallen 400,000 head from last year and are off nearly 1 million head from cycle highs. This year will see the beef cowherd near 30.7 million head. • Drought affected 25-30 percent of the beef cowherd over last year. Without an improvement in weather or profitability, at least 250,000 more head will be liquidated in 2022. • Feeder cattle and calf supplies outside of feedyards will be 250,000 to 300,000 head smaller than last year, at 25.4 million head. • Cattle on feed inventories have declined to 14.6 million head and recently placements have trended lower. This suggests the front-end supply will be more manageable into spring and summer 2022. • Fed slaughter in 2022 is expected to be 26.1 million head. This is 500,000 head lower than cycle highs in 2019. • Commercial beef production will contract over the next several years – declining 2 percent in 2022 to 27.2 billion pounds. • Reduced beef supplies in 2022 will lead to nearly a 2-pound decline in net beef supply to 56.2 pounds per person.

Domestic Beef Demand • Consumer beef demand increased 5 percentage points in 2021 on record-high retail prices. Demand should remain near recent highs in 2022. • Historically strong inflation has driven beef prices to a higher trading range. The USDA All-Fresh Beef Retail Price should average near $7.15/lb. this year. Ultimately, resulting in more margin in the system. • U.S. median household income increased in 2021, recovering two-thirds of the three percent lost the year prior. Low-tomiddle income Americans will be most affected by rising inflation. • Easing pandemic related restrictions benefitted the foodservice industry, however consumers have not backed away from the retail meat case purchases. • Wholesale demand will likely pullback in the coming year, but the cutout should hold steady near $280/cwt. on average for 2022. • Beef prices from end-users to consumers are likely to continue higher in the coming years due to strong demand and tightening supplies.

Global Protein Demand • Demand for all proteins has continued to rise around the world. • Following the 18 percent increase in 2021, U.S. beef exports are expected to grow by 5 percent this year to 3.7 billion pounds. • Beef exports to China were an estimated 500 million pounds in 2021. Though the growth rate may slow, China will continue to be the primary factor in U.S. beef export growth. • Pork exports will be limited by production in 2022. Moderate growth of 2 percent is anticipated to 7.4 billion total pounds. • Strong global petroleum prices will support global poultry demand with U.S. poultry exports experiencing 2 percent growth. • Tighter global supplies of red meat and poultry should support prices in 2022.

www.cattlefax.com

March 2022

Price Outlook & Watch List

CATTLEFAX TRENDS

Price Outlook 2022

• All-Fresh Retail: $7.15/lb., up $0.20 – With the highest beef demand in over 30 years, prices are expected to average $7.15/ lb. for 2022 and remain at historically elevated levels. The 2022 USDA All-Fresh Retail Beef price will be 20 cents higher, on average, with a $7.00 to $7.30 range. • Composite Cutout: $280/cwt, up $4 – Higher demand, combined with limited hook space, has elevated cutout values. After a 2021 USDA composite cutout average of $276, strong demand is expected to push prices about $4/cwt higher next year on average; trading in a practical range from $260 to $300. • Fed Steer: $140/cwt, up $18 – The fed cattle market averaged $122/cwt in 2021. Tighter fed cattle supplies, and a stronger bargaining position should benefit cattle feeders. The 2022 U.S. average fed steer price should be $18 higher, with an expected range from $130 to $155. • 800-Pound Steer: $172/cwt, up $28 – Stronger fed cattle values and smaller calf crops over the last three years should support feeder cattle prices this year, after averaging $144 through 2021. Expect a 2022 U.S. average 800-pound steer to trade $28 higher, with a trading range from $158 to $184. • 550-Pound Steer: $205/cwt, up $35 – A smaller calf supply supported prices in 2021 for a $170/cwt average. Recent cowherd liquidation will further reduce future calf crops. U.S. average 550-pound steer values should increase $30/cwt next year – trading from $180 to $230, with support near $195 this fall. • Utility Cows: $75/cwt, up $9 – There is more cowherd liquidation this year, but stronger lean beef trimmings demand has supported higher cull cow prices. After averaging $66/cwt in 2021, values should be $9 higher in 2022, with a range from $65 to $85. • Bred Cows: $1,850/hd., up $225 – Herd contraction and calf values have pressured bred female values the past several years. The 2021 price was estimated at $1625/head and on average, values should improve in 2022 by about $225 – trading from $1,700 to $2,000 for load lots of quality, running-age cows. Mother Nature will be a play a role in the value of bred females.

Beef Industry Watch List

• Cattle Margins – Historically low margins have challenged producers – from cow-calf to feedyard segments – for the last several years. Expect margins to improve as the cattle supply tightens and producers gain leverage from packers and retailers.

• Demand Growth – As beef quality has improved over time, demand and consumer spending for beef has also grown. Continuing to focus on meeting consumer demands in quality as well as things such as production practices, traceability, and sustainability will help the industry grow moving forward. • Trade – U.S. beef exports have trended higher the last few years. Expect continued growth through next year. Tighter global protein supplies should support U.S. red meat and poultry values, and export growth in 2022. • Balancing Leverage – Packing capacity has remained barely adequate as plant slowdowns and labor challenges have limited output, giving packers a large percentage of leverage. As supply shrinks and packing capacity and utilization improves over the next few years, leverage should improve.

www.cattlefax.com 59

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March 2022

HURLA FARMS FEEDLOT FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED IN PAXICO, KANSAS DEVELOPING BRANGUS GENETICS SINCE 1985

CUSTOM FEEDING

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STEAK YOUR FUTURE ON BRANGUS The Brangus Value Project is a comprehensive progeny test which will follow AI-sired steers through the feeding and packing segments and will capture data on feed efficiency, all carcass traits, and tenderness. This is the absolute best way to gather genetically relevant data on traits that matter greatly in the modern, quality-driven beef industry. The data will filter through the EPDs of thousands of cattle in the Brangus herdbook. It’s a BIG DEAL!!! IBBA members who are willing to invest $500 to sponsor one of the steers in this project will receive a Brangus strip loin, cut into individually packaged steaks, delivered to your door. You will

also be invited to an invitation-only seminar where all the data will first be presented. Your investment will be with the International Brangus Breeders Foundation, which is a 501(c)(3) charitable foundation, (tax deductible). The first group of steers are currently on feed in Kansas and will be harvested late this spring. You might have your steaks in time for a Father’s Day barbeque. We’ll need about 95 sponsors. So far, the following breeders and Brangus fans have stepped to the plate. Please request a pledge form and brochure and your name will appear here monthly.

We already know you love Brangus cattle. Help our breed move to the next level by investing in the Brangus Value Project. 62

March 2022

FRIENDS WE WILL MISS

NEIL ALLEN BECKMANN

Neil Allen Beckmann, age 66, died Jan. 10, 2022. Beckmann was a familiar face to Brangus breeders over the past four decades. He was with the firms of Cuatro B and Cow Creek Ranch in the ‘80s. Then he spent many years working for himself and assisted various breeders with many aspects of the purebred business and trucking. He loved showing cattle and paraded many Brangus champions over his lifetime. He was born to Faye (Brown) and Roy Allen Beckmann in Bellville, Texas on June 29, 1955. He was baptized at Nelsonville Brethren Church. In third grade, he moved with his parents and younger twin sisters, to Snook, Texas and later graduated from Snook High School. Beckmann inherited a love of ranching, rodeos, outdoors and never lost his interest in cattle or horses. As a teenager, he participated in rodeos by riding bulls. He worked for multiple ranches over his career, but lived mostly between Lago Vista and Marble Falls, Texas. He especially loved raising registered cattle and was happy to share his wealth of knowledge about cattle, animals, and the outdoors. Later in life, he began to raise bucking bulls and take them to various bull bucking events around Texas. His bulls had tough sounding names to go with attitudes and he was usually the only one brave enough to enter the pen with them. He also shared a family trait of “never meeting a stranger,” and spent a lifetime honing the art of story-telling with his many friends. Beckman was proceeded in death by his parents. He is survived by his wife, Tresia; daughters Laura (Matt) Forrester, and Stacy (Mark) Wise; and step-children, Bubba Amidon and Karen (Dyrel) Collins. His grandchildren include: Beck, Ruth Ann, Winnie and Gus Forrester, Taylor and Eli Wise and Ashlee (Garrett) Gilmore, Corey Amidon, Krysta (Angel)

Alvarez, Allyssa (Gary) Nipp, and Garret (Lily) Collins; and 11 great-grandchildren. He also leaves behind his sisters, Sharon (Roger) Caldwell and Karen (Marshall) Teal and nieces and nephews, Heather Caldwell, Cody (Summer) Caldwell, Bradley (Morgan) Prihoda as well as a host of cousins, great nieces, great nephews, and friends. Pallbearers were Mark Wise, Matthew Forrester, Beck Forrester, Bradley Prihoda, Cody Caldwell, and Bubba Amidon. Services for Beckmann were held in Marble Falls, Texas on Jan. 14th.

BOBBY RAY VICTOR

May 11, 1943 ~ December 1, 2021 (age 78) Funeral services for Bobby Victor, 78, of Dora, will be held at 10:00 AM, Tues., Dec. 7, 2021 in the Wheeler Mortuary Chapel with Rev. David Taylor officiating. Burial will follow in the Longs Cemetery in the Dora area with Danny Victor, Darrell Victor, Jody Victor, Kevin Victor, Jason Victor and Dustin Hatley serving as pallbearers. Bobby Ray Victor passed from this life on December 1, 2021. He was born on May 11, 1943 to Willie Glen Victor and Urania Sybil Victor. He lived his life in the Dora community where he ranched and farmed with his family. Later, he bought his own ranch - the Steeple D. He spent the rest of his life developing and improving the Steeple D ranch. He loved the land and the cattle. Over the years his cattle operation developed into a registered Brangus herd. He is survived by his wife, Bobbie and four children, Rocky Victor (Cherie), Ryan Victor (Linda), Randi Victor, and Buster Tucker (Tanya). He is also survived by 11 grandchildren, Tyler Victor (Oriana), Cody Varnell (Ashley), Amber Varnell, Rhiannon Victor, Reagan Victor, Kelsey Guthrie, Kelly Guthrie, Chance Tucker (Julia), Ethan Tucker (Hannah), Braden Tucker, and Tristan Tucker. He is also survived by 7 great-grandchildren.

SOUTHEASTERN BRANGUS BREEDERS ASSOCIATION “The Southeastern Brangus Breeders Association is pleased to announce that the Janet Gruel Scholarship has been awarded to Kendall S. Whatley. Kendall is a Georgia native with a heart full of passion for the cattle industry.Kendall is pursuing her graduate degree at the University of Georgia - Tifton Campus, in 68

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forages which is allowing her to gain a unique and vital perspective in managing the bovine physiology. She has plans to study fetal programming and the effects of nutrition in late gestation on fetal/calf growth and development through a Ph.D program and then plans to become a reproductive physiologist. Eventually, Kendall plans to have her own herd of Brangus cattle as soon as time and resources allow. Please join us in congratulating Kendall S. Whatley for earning this prestigious scholarship.”

SERVICE DIRECTORY

INTERNATIONAL COMMITTEE REPORT Mexico Red Brangus Association X’matkuil Merida Yucatan L National Show. November 18th. his is my 26th year participating in the X’matkuil Merida Yucatan Livestock Show. OB Ranch imported the first Red Brangus to Tizimin in 1998. I never expected the Red Brangus breed to grow fast like this. Today we have full stands with a tremendous interest for the Red Brangus breed. Congratulations to the Mexican Red Brangus Breeders Association and Mexican breeders.

SERVICE DIRECTORY

For advertising opportunities in the Brangus Journal or Frontline Beef Producer, contact Melanie Fuller at 979-255-3343 or mfuller@gobrangus.com. Contact Melanie Fuller at mfuller@gobrangus.com or 979.255.3343 for advertising spaces

FIND A BREEDER NEAR YOU VISIT US AT G O B R A N G U S . CO M / B R E E D E R -S E A R C H 70

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STATE DIRECTORY

ALABAMA — ARIZONA — ARKANSAS — CALIFORNIA — FLORIDA

JOHN MILAM, OWNER Grady Green, Ranch Manager 870-314-3673 | grady@dragginmranch.com El Dorado, Arkansas www.dragginm.com 2020 IBBA Top ET Breeder

Brangus & Ultrablacks BULLS & FEMALES available private treaty and select sales

Clay Cooper, Manager

SPANISH RANCH

352.302.2734

Brangus and Ultrablack Cattle

Pamela Doiron 805-245-0434 • doiron@spanishranch.net Follow Us on Facebook or Instagram @spanishranchcuyama

Contact Melanie Fuller at mfuller@gobrangus.com or 979.255.3343 for advertising spaces

FIND A BREEDER NEAR YOU VISIT US AT G O B R A N G U S . CO M / B R E E D E R -S E A R C H 71

STATE DIRECTORY

FLORIDA — GEORGIA — KANSAS — LOUISIANA — MISSISSIPPI — MISSOURI — NEW MEXICO

L.G. Herdon, Jr Owner 912.293.1316 Sky Herdon, Co-Owner 912.245.0428 Kevin Asbury, Manager 850.252.7290

Herndon Businesss Card ad.indd 1

David Wood Magnolia, MS 713-539-5715

dwood@woodcorporation.com

CDPBrangus.com

Contact Melanie Fuller at mfuller@gobrangus.com or 979.255.3343 for advertising spaces

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7/15/21 1:57 PM

STATE DIRECTORY

NEW MEXICO — NORTH CAROLINA — OKLAHOMA — TEXAS

Sales: 2nd Friday in March, 4th Saturday in April, 3rd Weekend in November

Joe Cavender, Owner Justin Matejka, General Manager | 903-521-1070 Dustin Kennedy, Cavender Brangus Ranch Manager | 903-810-2413 1200 CR 4716 • Troup, TX 75789 | CDPBrangus.com Certified Free Herd # D80550202

JOE & MELANIE FULLER - BEN & TRISH FULLER 14148 N State Highway 16, Willow City, TX 78675 C. 979-255-7747 E. jw.fuller@yahoo.com

EVERY DAY IS SALE DAY AT

Drake Land & Cattle

Farris Ranching Company

398 Drake Road Quanah, Texas 79252

Cell: (832) 331-2527 Ranch: (940) 663-6143 drakeranch398@gmail.com www.drakeranch.com

“West Texas Tough”

Brangus and Ultrablack Bulls est. 1924 Quanah, Texas

Danny & MB Farris Tuscola, TX 325.669.5727

J ackson family brangus

JODI & DAVID JACKSON 3099 Horseshoe Bend Waco, Texas 76708 Jodi cell: 254.722.9138

jodiatbentwood@sbcglobal.net Contact Melanie Fuller at mfuller@gobrangus.com or 979.255.3343 for advertising spaces

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STATE DIRECTORY

TEXAS

MIKE SHELTON C: 713.560.8333 Colita Loop, Colita, TX 77351 www.brangusprofit.com Registered Brangus and Ultrablack Cattle

RIO RANCH

MikeShelton-DirectoryCard.indd 1

Registered Brahman, Charolais and Brangus

10/19/17 7:32 AM

Raul Montez 832-331-6800 jraulmontez@ymail.com 39606 FM 1736 Hempstead, TX 77445 RIORANCHTX.COM

Randy Schmidt 903.278.7777

Schmidt Farms

Garrett Hinds 417.880.2839

BRANGUS & ULTRABLACK

GENEPLUSBRANGUS.COM

Contact Melanie Fuller at mfuller@gobrangus.com or 979.255.3343 for advertising spaces

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March 2022

STATE DIRECTORY

TEXAS

Zottarelli Ranches Angelo Zottarelli 2156 FM 2414 Evant, Texas 76525

www.zottarelliranches.com

REGISTERED & COMMERCIAL CATTLE Mailing Address PO Box 400 Evant, TX 76525

254-471-5675 Ranch 512-422-3123 Mobile zrbrangus@sbcglobal.net

GOBRANGUS.COM

For ad sales information, contact Melanie Fuller at mfuller@gobrangus.com or 979.255.3343.

Contact Melanie Fuller at mfuller@gobrangus.com or 979.255.3343 for advertising spaces

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CALENDAR MARCH 3 IBBA Annual Meeting, Houston, Texas 4 MBJ & TRIO "Walk the Red Carpet" Sale, Houston, Texas 4 MP Brangus "Friday Night Lights" Frozen Genetics Sale, Houston, Texas 4-5 Houston Livestock Open Brangus Bull and Female Show, Houston, Texas 5 Allen Cattle Company's Annual Ranching for Profit Sale, Houston, Texas 5 Genetic Edge Sale XXVII, Houston, Texas 10 Ad Reservation Deadline for April Brangus Journal 11 Cavender-Draggin' M and Partners 2nd Annual Spring Bull Sale, Jacksonville, Texas 12 Phillips Ranch Inaugural Production Sale, Bunnell, Florida 19 Mound Creek Genetics & Genomics Bull and Female Sale, Leona, Texas 22 GENEPLUS at Suhn's Cattle Company, Eureka, Kansas 24 Briggs Super American Bull Sale, Bloomington, Texas 25 Santa Rosa Ranch Inaugural Production Sale, College Station, Texas 25-27 Cattle Raisers Convention & Expo, Fort Worth, Texas 26 Oklahoma Brangus Association Spring Sale, McAlester, Oklahoma APRIL 1 Texas Brangus Breeders Association Annual Meeting, Salado, Texas 2 Texas Brangus Breeders Association Spring Spectacular Sale, Salado, Texas 9 ACE and Louisiana Brangus Bull Sale, Wiley Ranch, Effie, Louisiana 9 MP Brangus Bull & Female Sale, Poteet, Texas 76

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10 12 23 23 7 1-4 5 10 10-11 11 10 10 25 25 25 26-31

Ad Reservation Deadline for May Brangus Journal Champion's Valley Brangus Show Heifer & Genetics Sale Cavender-Draggin' M and Partners Sprign Female Production Sale Oak Creek Farms Forage Tested Spring Bull Sale, Chappell Hill, Texas MAY Clayton Williams Ranch Company Share the Genetics Sale, Bastrop, Texas JUNE Texas Junior Brangus Breeders Association State Show, Bryan, Texas Texas Invitational, Bryan, Texas ACE at Quail Valley Farms Complete Mature Cow Herd Dispersal, Oneonta, Alabama Arkansas Junior Brangus Breeders State Show, Siloam Springs, Arkansas ACE at Quail Valley Farms Premier Invitational Elite Brangus Sale, Oneonta, Alabama JULY Ad Reservation Deadline for August Brangus Journal Southeast Brangus Breeders Association Annual Award Nominations Due SBBA Award of Excellenece, Achievement Award and Hall of Fame Nominations Due SBBA Female Sale Nominations Due SRJBS Ownership Deadline National Junior Brangus Show and Brangus Futurity, Belton, Texas

15 SRJBS Entry Deadline

AUGUST

ADVERTISING INDEX ALABAMA American Cattle Enterprise............................. .................................IFC, 5, 16-17, 25, 71, 72 Far Niente Farms ........................................71 Johnston Brangus .....................................71 Lake Majestik..............................................71 Quail Valley Farms.............. IFC,16-17, 25, 71 Southeast Brangus Breeders Assn........65, 71 TTT Brangus Farm........................................71 Vanna Farms......................................... 16-17 ARIZONA Carter Brangus............................................71 Parker Brangus...........................................71 ARKANSAS Adams & Creasy Insurance Agency.............70 Big D Ranch ...............................................71 Chimney Rock Cattle Co. ............................71 Draggin’ M Ranch ............... 12-13, 16-17, 71 Giffin Farms................................................71 Jacksons Double J......................................71 Mobley, Luke..............................................70 Pope Farms Brangus...................................71 Red Bud Farms...........................................71 CALIFORNIA Spanish Ranch............................................71 FLORIDA Fenco Farms.................................... 16-17, 71 Hardee Farms ............................................71 Phillips Ranch................................. 16-17, 72 W.E.T. Farms................................................72 Wynne Ranch.............................................72 GEORGIA Char-No Farm .............................................72 Gold Creek Brangus.............................. 16-17 Greuel Family Brangus ..............................72 L.G. Herndon, Jr. Farms, Inc. .... 16-17, 47, 72 Las Palomas Ranch.....................................27 IOWA Trans Ova Genetics......................................64 KANSAS Hurla Farms Feedlot...................................61 Jensen Livesotck Agency............................70 Suhn Cattle Co .......................................9, 72 LOUISIANA Bushley Creek Cattle Co. ............................72

Cross N Farms ............................................72 Louisiana Brangus Breeders Association... IFC Midsouth Cattle Company..................IBC, 72 Neal Ranch................................................IBC The Branch Ranch.......................................72 Wiley Ranch Genetics.......................... IFC, 72 MISSISSIPPI Double W Ranch ........................................72 T3 Brangus...................................... 16-17, 72 Town Creek Farm........................................43 MISSOURI Don Thomas & Sons ...................................72 GENEPLUS.........................................9, 29-34 Valley View Ranch.......................................72 Vitaferm......................................................78 Wyman Creek Cattle Company...................72 NEBRASKA DVAuction..............................5, 11, 16-17, 51 NEW MEXICO Bobby and Bobbie Brangus .......................72 Brinks Brangus @ Westall Ranches ............73 OKLAHOMA Dotson, Wes................................................70 Lawman Ranch...........................................73 Oklahoma Brangus Association.................... 6 Perry Ranch.................................................73 TEXAS 2 Hearts Brangus........................................73 2C Brangus.................................................73 Beneficial Cattle Concepts..........................21 Bovine Elite, LLC ...................................60, 70 Briggs Ranches............................................. 5 Cavender Ranches .....................................72 Cavender-Draggin’ M and Partners.12-13, 72 Clark Cattle Services ...................................70 Cox Excalibur Brangus ...............................73 Cross F Cattle.................................. 16-17, 73 Diamond K Ranch ......................................73 Drake Land & Cattle ...................................73 E3 Ranch, LLC .............................................73 Elgin Breeding Services, LLC ................67, 70 Farris Ranching Company ..........................73 G Bar Brangus.............................................73 Gardner Cattle Co........................................73 Garry Clem Brangus ...................................73

Genesis Ranch ...........................................73 GKB Cattle ...................................... 39-41, 73 Grassy Lake Cattle Co..................................20 Harris Riverbend Farms................................ 5 Hi Point Sales + Marketing ........................... .................... 3, 28, 35, 39-41, 45, 46, 51, IBC International Red Brangus Breeders Assn.. 69 Jackson Family Brangus.............................73 JLS International ........................................74 K & L Brangus .............................................74 Lambert, Doak............................................70 Midgard Cattle Company...........................24 Mound Creek Ranch....................... 19-21, 74 MP Brangus..........................................74, BC Oak Creek Farms.........................................74 Oakley, Lakin..............................................70 OK Farms....................................................74 Old Colita Ranch.........................................74 Pennridge Ranch..................................25, 74 Pumpjack Cattle Co.....................................74 Rafter 2 Ranch............................................74 Ramro LLC...................................................38 Reagan, Terry..............................................70 Rio Ranch....................................................74 RJ Cattle......................................................38 Santa Rosa Ranch...................................3, 74 Scamardo Brangus.....................................74 Schmidt Farms............................................74 Schneider Brahmans, LLC...........................37 Star G Ranch.........................................45, 74 Starwood Ranch..........................................74 Tajo Ranch............................................46, 75 Tanecka Ranch.............................................. 7 Texas Brangus Breeders Assn.........35, 46, 51 TRIO Cattle & Genetics................................74 Triple Crown Ranch.....................................75 Triple JR Cattle Co.................................24, 75 Tuna Rosa Ranch.........................................75 Turner Brangus Farm..................................75 Union Ranch Cattle Company.....................75 Villa Ranch............................................35, 75 Vineyard Cattle Co., Inc.........................44, 75 Williams Ranch Company....................11, 75 Zottarelli Ranches.......................................75

ABOUT THE BRANGUS JOURNAL The International Brangus Breeders Association (IBBA) is proud to offer its members and industry affiliates the opportunity to promote themselves through Brangus Publications, Inc.’s (BPI) print and digital mediums. IBBA’s printed publications are produced by BPI and are distributed to a mailing list, comprised of addresses in Australia, Colombia, Costa Rica, Mexico, Philippines, Thailand, and the United States; with a circulation of 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). The Brangus Journal is published eight times annually, 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. For subscriptions, contact Lori Edwards, ledwards@gobrangus.com, or 210.696.8231. 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.

March 2022

March 2022 Brangus Journal

Articles inside

Gene-Editing, Is it a Reality?