January 2025 Brangus Journal by International Brangus Breeders Association

Brangus JANUARY 2025

8870 US Highway 87E, San Antonio, TX 78263 • P.O. Box 809, Adkins, TX 78101 (210) 696-8231 • Fax (210) 696-8718 • info@gobrangus.com • gobrangus.com

IBBA BOARD OF DIRECTORS

President Shiloh Hall, Oklahoma

1st Vice President Grady Green, Arkansas

2nd Vice President Josh Walker, Ph.D, Arkansas Secretary/Treasurer Jeremy Jackson, Arkansas

CONTACTS

EAST REGION

:: Trey Cuevas :: treycuevas3@yahoo.com Purvis, Mississippi

:: Grady Green :: grady@dragginmranch.com El Dorado, Arkansas

IBBA BOARD OF DIRECTORS

President Jeremy Jackson, Gentry, Arkansas

IBBA STAFF

:: Jeremy Jackson :: jjackson101@gmail.com Gentry, Arkansas

1st Vice President Rob Singleton, Florida

2nd Vice President Shiloh Hall, Oklahoma

Secretary/Treasurer Allen Goode, Texas

IBBA STAFF

:: Executive Vice President :: Rick Cozzitorto :: rcozzitorto@gobrangus.com

:: Director of Field Services & Strategic Projects :: Kyle Caldwell :: kcaldwell@gobrangus.com

:: Director of Shows & Youth Activities :: Lori Edwards-Dunkerley :: ledwards@gobrangus.com

:: Director of Media & Marketing | Editor :: Jessie England :: jengland@gobrangus.com

:: Director of Genomics & Research :: Macee Wagner :: mprause@gobrangus.com

:: Director of Registry Services :: Callie DeLarm :: cdelarm@gobrangus.com

:: Member Services ::

Mandie Sadovsky :: msadovsky@gobrangus.com

:: Controller :: Brian Sadovsky :: bsadovsky@gobrangus.com

:: Director of Operations :: Abby Geye :: ageye@gobrangus.com

:: Software Developer :: Raul Ramos ::

INTERNATIONAL BRANGUS

Executive Vice President

INT BRANGUS AUXILIARY BOARD

:: President :: Tina Gardner, China Spring, Texas

:: 1st Vice President :: Tami Jones, Stillwater, Oklahoma

:: 2nd Vice President :: Marlene Schwerin, Gentry, Arkansas

:: Secretary :: Sami Roop, Grapevine, Texas

:: Treasurer :: Connie Smart Runge, Texas

:: Historian :: Jodi Jackson, Waco, Texas

:: Social Media Coordinator :: Jennifer Walker, Ben Lomond, Arkansas

INT BRANGUS FOUNDATION BOARD

:: President :: Brandon Belt, Gatesville, Texas

:: Secretary/Treasurer :: Rick Cozzitorto

Allen Goode, Mabank, Texas

Chris Heptinstall, Dothan, Alabama

AUXILIARY BOARD

Darrell Wilkes, Ph.D., dwilkes@gobrangus.com

:: Editor in Chief ::

President Brenda Brull, Atchison, Kansas

:: Rob Singleton :: rsingletoncattle@yahoo.com Seville, Florida

East Region

Trey Cuevas, Purvis, Mississippi treycuevas3@yahoo.com

TEXAS REGION

Grady Green, El Dorado, Arkansas grady@dragginmranch.com

Controller

Director of Registry

BRANGUS PUBLICATIONS, INC. STAFF

Jessie England :: jengland@gobrangus.com

Brian Sadovsky, bsadovsky@gobrangus.com

Jessie England, jengland@gobrangus.com

Registry and Records Assistant

:: Mary Douglass :: twoheartsbrangus@yahoo.com Seguin, Texas

Jeremy Jackson, Gentry, Arkansas jjackson101@gmail.com

:: Joe Fuller :: jw.fuller@yahoo.com Willow City, Texas

Rob Singleton, Seville, Florida singletons2002@yahoo.com

:: Mike Weathers :: mikeweathers@msn.com Columbus, Texas

Texas Region

Mary Douglass, Seguin, Texas twoheartsbrangus@yahoo.com

1st Vice President Tina Gardner, China Spring, Texas

2nd Vice President Ginger Pritchard, McLoud, Oklahoma

:: Advertising Sales :: Kyle Caldwell :: kcaldwell@gobrangus.com

Callie DeLarm, cdelarm@gobrangus.com

Director of Genomics and Research

Macee Prause, mprause@gobrangus.com

Secretary Mary Beth Farris, Tuscola, Texas

Treasurer Janet Greuel, Brooks, Georgia

Historian Jodi Jackson, Waco, Texas

:: Advertising Sales :: Jay Carlson :: jay@carlsonmediagroup.com

Director of Shows & Youth Activities

Lori Edwards, ledwards@gobrangus.com

Member Services

Mandie Sadovsky, msadovsky@gobrangus.com

Product Manager

:: Gary Adamek :: gary@fayettecountryhomes.com Schulenburg, Texas

Allen Goode, Mabank, Texas allen@triocattle.com

WEST REGION

Andrew Scamardo, Bryan, Texas scamardobrangus@gmail.com

:: Shiloh Hall :: shiloh518@yahoo.com Okmulgee, Oklahoma

Gary Adamek, Schulenburg, Texas gary@fayettecountryhomes.com

West Region

Shiloh Hall, Okmulgee, Oklahoma shiloh518@yahoo.com

Andrew Sicotte Jr., asicotte@goregstr.com

Social Media Coordinator Jennifer Walker, Ben Lomond, Arkansas

INTERNATIONAL BRANGUS FOUNDATION BOARD

IBBA COMMITTEE CHAIRMEN

President Brandon Belt, Gatesville, Texas

:: Awards :: Shiloh Hall, Okmulgee, Oklahoma

Senior Software Developer

Marcel Vieira, mvieira@goregstr.com

Software Developer

Secretary/Treasurer Darrell Wilkes, Ph.D.

Allen Goode, Mabank, Texas

Chris Heptinstall, Marianna, Florida

:: Breed Improvement ::

Tracy Holbert, College Station, Texas

Traci Middleton, Puryear, Tennessee

Josh Walker, Ph.D., Ben Lomond, Arkansas

Raul Ramos, rramos@goregstr.com

BRANGUS PUBLICATIONS, INC. STAFF

Cindy Blazek, Leona, Texas

:: Commercial Marketing :: Cody Glenn,West Point, Mississippi

David Wood, Magnolia, Mississippi

Nic Cornelison, Flat Rock, Alabama

:: Finance ::

Advertising Sales, Melanie Fuller mfuller@gobrangus.com, 979-255-3343

:: Matt Barton :: rangeroptics@gmail.com Stillwater, Oklahoma

Brangus Journal Publications, Inc. Editor Jessie England | editor@gobrangus.com

:: Warren Young, DVM :: wbydvm@hotmail.com Blanchard, Oklahoma

Greg Romans, Vale, Oregon romansbrangus@yahoo.com

AT-LARGE

Vern Suhn, Eureka, Kansas vern@geneplusbrangus.com

At-Large

Randy Schmidt, M.D., Texarkana, Texas doctorrand@me.com

Jeremy Jackson, Gentry, Arkansas

:: International ::

IBBA COMMITTEE CHAIRMEN

Awards Shiloh Hall, Okmulgee, Oklahoma

Breed Improvement Randy Schmidt, M.D., Texarkana, Texas

:: Randy Schmidt, M.D. :: doctorrand@me.com Texarkana, Texas

Josh Walker, Ph.D., Ben Lomond, Arkansas | josh@redbudfarms.net

@gobrangus | #gobrangus

MEMBER OF

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

Garrett Thomas, Waxahachie, Texas

Director Briana Hicks, Danbury, Texas

:: Long Range Planning :: Joe Fuller, Willow City, Texas

Commercial Marketing Cody Glenn, West Point, Mississippi

Finance Allen Goode, Mabank, Texas

International Garrett Thomas, Waxahachie, Texas

:: Josh Walker, Ph.D. :: josh@redbudfarms.net Ben Lomond,Arkansas

Long Range Plan Joe Fuller, Willow City, Texas

:: Promotions ::

Director Jaxon Allen, Haworth, Oklahoma

Director Samuel Belt, Gatesville, Texas

Director Tyler Towns, Bryan, Texas

:: Membership & Education :: Karen Adamek, Schulenberg, Texas

Director Kaily Warren, Lufkin, Texas

Megan Greenwood, Plantersville, Texas

Membership Marty Lavender, Melrose, New Mexico

Promotion Lisa Neal, Morganza, Lousiana

Show Gina Gill, Beckville, Texas

:: Show :: Mark Perry, Waco, Texas

IJBBA Advisory, Brandon Belt, Gatesville, Texas 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

Tracy Holbert, College Station, Texas

Traci Middleton, Puryear, Tennessee

Cindy Blazek, Leona, Texas

David Wood, Magnolia, Mississippi

Nic Cornelison, Flat Rock, Alabama

IJBBA BOARD OF DIRECTORS

:: President :: Emma Tittor, Texas

:: Ex-Officio :: Jaxon Allen, Oklahoma

:: Queen :: Camille Burns, Texas

:: Director :: Aubrey Meador, Texas

:: Director :: Savannah Hanson, Texas

:: Director :: Gracie Johnson, Texas

:: Director :: Isabelle Parkey, Texas

:: Director :: Kade Whiddon, Texas

:: Director :: Carter Aucoin, Louisiana

:: Director :: Grant Goree, Mississippi

Director Jayden Pinkston, Shefner, Florida

:: Director :: Emily Jackson, Arkansas

:: IJBBA Advisory :: Brandon Belt, Gatesville, Texas

Cover photo by Kelsey Gibson, Town Creek Inside photos by Sarah Tisdel, Triangle K Ranch, Kelsey Gibson, Town Creek and Matt Roppolo

Cover Photo Penny Bowie Las Palomas Ranch

Seeking Success for the Ranch & Industry

Tommie Rogers’ Brangus herd at The Branch Ranch grew from a series of life events, starting with his love for cattle as a child, leading to his daughters' 4-H involvement, and culminating in building the largest registered Brangus operation in the U.S., focused on quality cattle, customer needs, and family legacy.

CDP & Dr. Darrell Wilkes Team Up

CDP Brangus has partnered with Dr. Darrell Wilkes, a respected cattle industry expert, to enhance customer service and expand the reach of their data-driven genetic improvement programs for Brangus cattle nationwide.

HOW TO MAXIMIZE HETEROSIS WITH TRUE BRANGUS AND ANGUS!

Brangus were created 75 years ago to blend two desirable breeds to create a new one. Unlike breeding value or EPD, Heterosis is not passed from generation to generation in a crossbreeding program without a loss in its level unless a stable breeding program is established (as has been done in Brangus and at OCF). Heterosis has the greatest effect on traits most affected by environment... adaptability, longevity, fertility, maternal ability, resistance to parasites and diseases, etc. OCF is widely known for their True Brangus and increased Heterosis allowing their genetics to perform better in most environments. Long-time customers and repeat buyers tell the real story at Oak Creek Farms

SALE CONTACTS

Owner: John Kopycinski 979-251-2530

Consultants: Gary Bruns 830-391-0766 • Kent Smith 979-540-8338

Mike Arnold 979-732-7679 • Charlie Tiner 713-252-4662

Auctioneer: Troy Robinett 817-995-7509

Charting a Path for Growth and Opportunity in the New Year

By Shiloh Hall, International Brangus Breeders Association (IBBA) president

I’m excited about the year ahead; this season marks an opportunity to envision the growth and progress we want to achieve as breeders, ranchers, and proud members of the International Brangus Breeders Association (IBBA). Together, we have the chance to continue elevating the Brangus breed, while further strengthening the foundation of our operations and our association.

The cattle industry is evolving rapidly, and it is our responsibility to stay ahead of the curve. With that in mind, I’d like to highlight some key opportunities for growth that will position the Brangus breed for sustained success.

Growth Through Innovation and Excellence

One area ripe for advancement is the continued promotion of Ultrablack and Ultrared cattle. This unique blend of genetics brings additional flexibility to commercial cattlemen seeking maternal excellence, adaptability, and performance. By emphasizing this subset of Brangus genetics, we can expand our influence and meet a broader range of market demands.

Additionally, our association’s ongoing focus on Expected Progeny Differences (EPDs) and strengthening our database is a cornerstone of growth. Reliable EPDs help breeders make data-driven decisions, whether it’s improving maternal traits, increasing carcass quality, or optimizing growth rates. The ability to target desirable traits with precision ensures that Brangus cattle remain competitive in today’s data-driven marketplace.

Breeding cattle that perform well on the grid is another critical priority. High-quality carcass traits are essential to profitability in today’s market. Brangus cattle have the genetic potential to meet and exceed these demands, offering superior marbling and grading potential. By continuing to select for these attributes, we provide a product that benefits both breeders and consumers alike.

For commercial cattlemen, the Brangus breed represents unmatched versatility. Our highly maternal females excel in efficiency, fertility, and adaptability, offering the kind of resilience and productivity that Gulf Coast and other regional producers rely on. As a community, we must continue to promote these advantages, showcasing the value Brangus cattle add to commercial operations.

Finally, investing in value-added programs for Brangus genetics remains a priority. Whether it’s Brangus® Vigor, other commercial programs, branded beef programs, certification initiatives, or innovative marketing tools, these programs create pathways for breeders to differentiate their cattle and maximize returns. By expanding these efforts, we strengthen the market position of the Brangus breed and provide our members with valuable resources for success.

The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association

Another key element of success is staying connected and visible within the broader cattle industry. The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) convention, scheduled for February 4–6, is the perfect platform to showcase the strength of the Brangus breed. This event is a

tremendous opportunity to engage with producers, promote the IBBA’s mission, and build new relationships. If you’re planning to attend, I encourage you to make your arrangements early, as the event draws participants from across the country and accommodations fill quickly. Be sure to stop by the IBBA booth while you’re there—we’re proud to be sponsored this year by Cavender Ranches, CDP Brangus, ACE and Villa Ranch, who share our passion for supporting and growing the Brangus breed. Their dedication to our association and members is a testament to the strength of our community.

At the booth, you’ll have the chance to meet with IBBA staff and board members, learn more about upcoming programs, and share your thoughts on how we can continue to enhance the value of Brangus genetics. The NCBA convention is always an inspiring event, and we look forward to seeing many of you there.

A Unified Vision for 2025

As we navigate the year ahead, I encourage each of

you to embrace the opportunities before us. Whether you’re focused on improving your herd, investing in new technology, or building connections within the industry, every step you take contributes to the collective success of the Brangus breed. The IBBA is committed to supporting you in your efforts. From advancing research initiatives to providing educational resources, our mission is to equip members with the tools they need to succeed. I invite you to reach out to the IBBA team with your ideas, questions, or feedback—we’re here to serve you.

Together, we are the driving force behind the growth and success of the Brangus breed. Let’s make 2025 a year of innovation, collaboration, and achievement. I look forward to seeing the strides we’ll make as an association and as an industry.

On behalf of the IBBA board of directors, I wish you a prosperous and rewarding New Year. Let’s keep the momentum going and continue to elevate the Brangus breed to new heights.

Go Brangus!

Happy New Year to our Brangus Family & Friends!

by Rick Cozzitorto, International Brangus Breeders Association (IBBA) executive vice president

I hope you had a wonderful Christmas season and are as excited as I am to welcome 2025. Reflecting on 2024, it was truly an outstanding year for the Brangus breed. From record-breaking sales to the incredibly high demand for Brangus cattle, it was a testament to the hard work and dedication of our breeders. The future of our breed has never been brighter.

As we turn the page to a new year, the team and I are excited to unveil several improvements designed to enhance the value of your membership and promote the Brangus breed to new heights. Here are just a few highlights to look forward to in 2025:

• Website Redesign: We are completing a full redesign of our website to ensure it is both mobile and digital-friendly, keeping pace with modern technology and positioning us for the future.

• New Studio Launch: A brand-new studio is being set up in our office and will make its debut at Houston. It will enable us to produce podcasts, interviews, and other engaging content during the week. If you’re interested in sponsoring this exciting project, we’d love to have you on board.

• Registry System Enhancements: We continue to make updates and upgrades to our registry system, focusing on user-friendliness and accessibility to provide you with seamless experience.

• Modernized Promotion Tools: As our breed reaches new heights, so should our efforts to promote it. While we’re extremely proud of our publication, we’re also committed to bringing the rest of the association’s tools into the 21st century.

• Bullish on Brangus: One of the best ways to support Brangus is through the IBBF. Our "Bullish on

Brangus" initiative. If you’re new to this program, it’s a simple $10-per-head donation from your sale or private treaty sales each year on any cattle or lots sold. These contributions benefit our junior programs, education, leadership development, and research. The Brangus Foundation remains committed to supporting opportunities for success in the Brangus breed and the beef industry.

Additionally, Houston will host our national meeting and elections this year. This is an important event, and I encourage as many of you as possible to attend. It’s a valuable opportunity to connect, learn, and contribute to the future of our association.

As we begin this new year, I’d like to share a thought about balance – a principle I believe is vital to success in life. God, family, hobbies, and work all deserve their proper place and time. If we neglect any of these, the others will suffer. The same principle applies to our breeding practices. Some breeds have made the mistake of focusing on single traits, neglecting balance, and have paid the price. In 2025, let’s continue striving to breed balanced cattle— both phenotypically and genotypically—to meet the growing demand for the exceptional Brangus cattle you produce.

This past fall, I traveled over 25,000 miles meeting many of you, and I’m inspired by the passion and dedication I’ve seen. The future of the Brangus breed is incredibly promising, and I’m truly blessed to be part of this journey with you.

God bless our ranchers, God bless our military, and God bless this great country that provides us with such incredible opportunities. Here’s to an extraordinary 2025!

UPDATE from the Field

by Kyle Caldwell, Director of Field Services and Strategic Projects

We just rounded out the fall 2024 sale season a few weeks ago with the T3 Pine Belt Alliance Sale, the Inaugural GKB Cattle Brangus Production Sale and culminating with the Texas Drovers sale. The week before Thanksgiving, I made my way out to the 3rd Annual T3 Pine Belt Alliance sale in Purvis, Mississippi. This has been a very well attended sale in the two years prior and this year was no different. The buyers showed up in force to demand high quality genetics. Trey, Kendall, and James do an excellent job putting together a can’t miss event every year.

After Thanksgiving week, it was time to head to Desdemona, Texas for the Inagural GKB Cattle Brangus Production Sale. This was a highly anticipated sale many have been excited to attend for over a year. Buyers showed up big time to support the Buchholz crew and I look forward to another great sale next year.

The last sale on the docket was the third annual Texas Drovers Sale in Weimar, Texas. Joe Fuller and Bunge Halla

manage this sale every year and put together their stoutest bull offering yet, and commensurately, it was the highest averaging Drovers sale to date.

While on the way to Weimar I stopped in for ranch visits to Genesis Ranch, Cox Excalibur Ranch and Running Luce Ranch. Each of these programs field some amazing cattle in their own right, suited to each’s production goals, although very different for each operation. The diversity seen across all three operations, coupled with strong sale performances, underscores the opportunity available in the Brangus breed for everyone, regardless of operation size, scope, or focus. 2024 has been a banner year in the Brangus breed from broken sale records to turning 75 years old and I am grateful to be along for the ride.

Up next, you can catch me at the Red-Land Cattle sale on January 18th held at Woodland Ag in Bagwell, Texas. See you all down the road!

GO BRANGUS!

CDP BRANGUS & DR. DARRELL WILKES TEAM UP TO ENHANCE CUSTOMER SERVICE

CDP Brangus, a leading industry partnership of some of the nation’s largest and most progressive Brangus breeders, has retained the services of Dr. Darrell Wilkes to join and assist CDP’s strong customer service team, including sales and outreach to ranchers around the United States. Wilkes recently retired as Executive Vice President of the International Brangus Breeders Association (IBBA).

“CDP is exactly the kind of organization I can get behind. The partners and the cooperators are all focused on data-driven genetic improvement. I am 100% confident that I can help commercial cattlemen improve their herd productivity and profitability by assisting them in their genetic selections from CDP. I have been fortunate to work in every segment of the beef industry during my 40+ year career, from seedstock to cowcalf, feedlot and packing plant. I have a good understanding of the kind of cattle that actually boost a producer’s bottom line, and CDP has them. And, equally important to the quality of cattle, the quality of the people associated with CDP made this arrangement very appealing to me.”

MORE AT WWW.CDPBRANGUS.COM

THE VALUE OF RETAIL PRICES

CATTLEFAX

TRENDS

by Matthew McQuagge

This past year has recorded higher average prices for all classes of livestock as cyclically tighter supplies are coupled with strong consumer demand. Demand for the quality, safety, and consistency of U.S. beef has been evident both nationally and internationally as annual demand at both the wholesale and retail levels are expected to finish within the top two years since 1998. Within the current stage of the cattle cycle, leverage favors the cattle producer and, as further upside is anticipated in beef prices, producers should gain a larger share of the retail beef dollar.

When evaluating the cattle business, the leverage between seller and buyer is the determining factor regarding the percentage of that animal’s total value that each party receives. Within the beef cattle industry, each animal is worth a total sum of dollars per head and each segment is trying to gain a higher percentage of that total. Some examples of this ratio include the calf price as a percentage of retail price or the fed price (with or without the drop credit) as a percentage of spot composite cutout. Tracking these leverage ratios across time can provide insight into market psychology between sectors at different stages of the cattle cycle. Finally, the leverage component can help determine expected prices at each stage of production. This article will focus on the cow-calf producer’s share of total value as measured by 550-lb. steer price as a percentage of all-fresh retail beef price.

Measuring the amount of money coming into the beef industry at the consumer level will set the stage for future price discussions. The USDA all-fresh retail beef price is expected to finish the year with an annual average near $8.00/lb., an increase of over 5% from 2023. Strong beef

production coupled with stout import levels has resulted in larger year-over-year beef per-capita supplies in 2024. This increase in both price and supply has led to record high retail beef demand this year. Even at higher prices, there has been little consumer substitution from beef to other, cheaper options. Boneless pork chops are only up 2% on an annual basis while boneless chicken breasts saw a 4% decrease in prices this year. Despite a lack of substantial trade-down between protein sources, we are seeing substitution within the beef complex. Reliance on ground beef has become a prominent theme of this year, with prices rising 8% since the start of 2024. This demand for lean trimmings has not only yielded record cull cow values, but also provided a layer of support to end meat items. Current projections are for annual retail prices to continue to push higher with an expected average of $8.15/lb. in 2025. This implies that the amount of dollars entering the overall beef system will be plentiful.

The next component of the retail price discussion is leverage, to determine how that money is allocated between segments. From 2016 to 2022, the leverage component of the cattle markets favored the packing segment of the beef industry as the supply of cattle available for harvest exceeded shackle space. With that bottleneck, it was a challenge for cow-calf producers to capture a large percentage of retail prices. During that period, the 550-lb. steer price as a percent of the retail price averaged 27%, well below the longterm average of 32%. Since then, as cattle supplies have tightened, more money has shifted to flow back to the cow-calf segment with year-over-year increases in calf prices sharply outpacing rising retail prices. In the accompanying chart, it is easy to notice that leverage trends follow closely with the historical cattle cycle, leading to a ratio averaging 38% in 2024. In the next two years, this leverage measurement is expected to approach 40%. With a forecasted allfresh retail beef price of $8.15/lb. in 2025, this would equate to 550-lb. steer calves averaging $325/cwt next year. A notable difference in this cycle peak relative to the last is that leverage should remain in the cow-calf producers’ favor for a longer period of time due to the slower herd rebuild.

account for the role of inflation on increasing cattle prices by converting nominal (spot) values to “real” prices. This manipulation is less impactful during periods of low inflation however that has not been the case the last few years. Inflation, as measured by the Consumer Price Index, reached 8% in recent years, well above the federal target of 2%. It has since lowered to

near 2.7% in the latest report, yet inflation’s impact on calf prices should be recognized. By adjusting 550-lb. steer prices to 2023 dollars, real prices indicate that we have yet to reach calf values from the recent peak in 2015. That said, it also highlights just how strong the price increases have been these last two years. Furthermore, the anticipated duration of these strong values in this cycle are a welcome trade-off to not reaching the shorter-term peaks of the last cycle.

When viewing trends across many years, particularly when comparing cattle cycles, it can be valuable to

When it comes to leverage, there are only so many dollars in the system to garner. U.S. beef demand in 2024 was exceptional as consumers reward producers for efforts to improve the quality of beef. Tighter cattle and beef supplies the next two years will favor even higher prices at the expense of moderately softer demand. With expected leverage levels, this should create more margin in the system and support further upsides in the cattle markets, particularly in the cow-calf sector.

Seeking Success for the Ranch & the Industry

by Lindsay L Allen

Tommie Rogers’ Brangus herd is the result of what some might call the domino effect. He didn’t grow up in the cattle industry, but he did grow up loving every daily visit to a family friend’s Charolais operation, until high school sports took over his schedule. But Tommie always knew, if the opportunity presented itself, he was going to own land and run cattle. After playing football and graduating college, he ended up in the oil industry and another domino fell, an opportunity presented itself, and he bought land in Branch, LA, hence the name, The Branch Ranch. This led to purchasing six commercial cows and a bull. Fast forward a few years and Tommie’s oldest of four daughters came home from a 4-H meeting with a desire to show, and that was the last domino to fall. The purchase of a registered Brangus show heifer led to a prominent Brangus herd and Tommie’s strong involvement with the International Brangus Breeder’s Association (IBBA).

Since then, Tommie has served an eight-year term as president of the Louisiana Brangus Breeders Association, while simultaneously serving on the board of directors and chairing various committees and research programs with the IBBA. He eventually served as president of the IBBA from 1999-2000. In 2003, the Louisiana Cattle Festival and Fair named Tommie the Outstanding Cattleman of the Year.

The Branch Ranch, Mansfield, Louisiana, has continued to grow and now includes 1500+ cattle, along with a development center and direct beef sales. The Branch Ranch currently stands as the largest registered Brangus breeder in the country.

“We had a solid base for our herd from the show cattle I was buying for my girls. I started flushing the show cattle and building the herd. Then I bought 10 registered cows from Wayne LaHaye out of Mamou, Louisiana.” Tommie continued, “We had these cattle from Wayne, plus our

show cattle, but we needed more land. I couldn’t find land anywhere near our home as the sugar cane farmers owned it all in this area. Until one day when I was driving 3 hours north of our home and passed a sale sign on acreage. Turns out the realtor was still there after putting up the sign that day and so I hopped in her jeep and toured what is now The Branch Ranch.”

Tommie is proud to have his oldest, Erin, working alongside him at the ranch. Her love for Brangus runs deep too as a former International Junior Brangus Breeder’s Association president.

“I initially got into the Brangus breed because my daughters were showing the breed, but I realized that this breed was developed and designed to produce a quality maternal animal. Brangus females produce heifers you want to retain and build your herd with and the steers have impressive carcass qualities. I think the maternal side of our herd is the most important thing about this breed. In fact, John McKnight, a true cowman and leader in the Brangus breed, always stressed this and was an inspiration to me. He was a strong advocate for the maternal traits of this breed and that has stuck with me all this time.” Tommie said. He added that the ranch is focused on producing cattle that will make a difference in the industry, not just within their own operation.

The Branch Ranch held production sales from 1996-2005 and in 2007 Tommie sold his oil field company and began fully focusing on his Brangus operation. The first order of business was to reinstate an annual sale, which kicked off in 2010. The ranch operating process is to send all their calves to the

development center before bringing the heifers back to be bred. The bulls are developed to two years of age and then sold in the ranch’s annual bull sale as well as private treaty.

“Our bull sale gets better every year. We are selling 200+ bulls a year and selling commercial replacement females for

cattleman as well,” Tommie continued, “My dad always said to make goals in life that were unattainable and that when we got comfortable with that goal to raise the bar and that is the philosophy I’ve applied to many things, the ranch included.”

The full-service bull and heifer development program works closely with nutritionists and veterinarians and can be customized to fit any producer’s need. “Bulls are developed with a “fit-not-fat” attitude and are ready for service when they leave our facility,” Tommie shared. The center offers feeding programs for sale development and herd sire development. The development center also offers estrus synchronization, AI, metrics for average daily gain, sale preparation (clipping, videos, photos, etc.) and health and breeding soundness exams.

The Branch Ranch is also expanding to selling beef directly to the customer. Their brand “Buy Better Beef” is in

the early stages and is a result of Erin’s influence on the operation. “She saw the trend for selling ranch raised beef and said we have a product we can market and thus create another source of revenue. I’m pretty excited about this launch; we have taken our product and tested it at catering and banquet events and believe in what we are selling,” Tommie stated.

Chasing and analyzing expected progeny differences (EPDs) at The Branch Ranch is part of the management practices. “I study EPDs a lot because they are important for our operation, but also the industry as a whole and the Brangus breed in particular,” Tommie continued, “This is a composite breed and when you mate cattle of a composite breed it creates more challenges. I love tagging calves and seeing that we produced what we anticipated. It’s all a puzzle in the composite breed business to see how consistent we can be and that is what I enjoy, figuring it all out.”

The ranch is now leaning toward more Ultrablack cattle due to demand from their customers. “Our whole goal is to chase the commercial cowman. We believe the commercial cowman is the most important customer for the Brangus breeder and we want to make a difference for that cowman by helping him retain his heifers and for his

steers to grade on the grid with more pounds of beef, which makes better beef for the country,” he shared.

While the ranch has many professional goals, they have personally found success too. Tommie and his wife are proud of their four daughters and ten grandkids and the “family that is growing as fast as the cattle herd,” he said. As the ranch grew, Tommie knew he needed help and is thankful that his oldest daughter had a desire to come back to the ranch. It has been fun for the Rogers to gather as a family and

discuss ranch goals which included their shared vision of growing the herd, which has doubled in size and starting a branded beef program, which was launched in December under the name, Buy Better Beef.

Tommie said, “I’m the first generation in this business, but I won’t be the last. I see a lot of ranchers who have to eventually sell it all, but Erin has stepped in and is carrying on the business and my other girls are always ready to pitch in too. It’s heartwarming to see.”

He is also quick to give credit to his ranch manager, Chris Koffskey, who shares the ranch’s vision and values and has been a trusted advisor

to Tommie in the expansion and growth of the operation.

The last three decades of providing high quality cattle for purebred and commercial cowmen have been the result of Tommie’s vision and dedication to producing world class cattle and of course, those dominoes that fell and led him to the Brangus breed.

By Lauren Wottlin, Ph.D.

New SenseHub® Cow Calf assists with reproductive efficiency, monitors cow herd

For producers using artificial insemination (AI) or embryo transfer (ET), getting cows or heifers pregnant promptly is critical. A high pregnancy rate requires good heat detection.1 Visual heat detection not only takes time, but it also isn’t an exact science.

Proprietary monitoring technology assists with breeding success, plus alerts producers to cows needing attention. Both benefits protect the investment of high-value cow-calf herds.

New SenseHub® Cow Calf helps detect estrus, determine ideal insemination windows and uncover reproductive issues faster, all while monitoring for well-being.

By continuously monitoring each cow or heifer, the system helps to identify when an animal is in estrus, allowing for insemination at the best time to optimize conception rates and minimize calving intervals.

SenseHub Cow Calf also can help detect a heifer or cow that didn’t conceive at approximately 21 days post breeding. It also reports anestrus animals, making it easier to spot those with irregular cycles.

Monitoring for well-being

The system provides continuous monitoring of herd activity and rumination through an ear-mounted accelerometer. Real-time data allows for early detection of behaviors that may suggest health issues, enabling prompt intervention.

Convenient alerts are delivered to smartphones, tablets or desktop computers, saving producers time and providing peace of mind. LED-lighted ear tags help easily identify animals flagged by the system.

SenseHub software provides customizable reports and dashboards to meet each operation’s needs and integrates with various cattle management platforms, providing actionable insights related to estrus, health and nutrition.

The system is easy to install and maintain. The time from placing an order to actively detecting heats is five to six weeks.

For more information, visit SenseHub-CowCalf.com

By Lauren Wottlin, Ph.D., R&D manager with Merck Animal Health

SenseHub Cow Calf is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease in animals. For the diagnosis, treatment, cure, or prevention of diseases in animals, you should consult your veterinarian. The accuracy of the data collected and presented through this product is not intended to match that of medical devices or scientific measurement devices. ©2024

1. Perry, George. Detection of standing estrus in cattle. South Dakota State University. 2004. FS921B.

CDP BRANGUS AND DR. DARRELL WILKES TEAM UP TO ENHANCE CUSTOMER SERVICE

El Dorado, Arkansas. CDP Brangus, a leading industry partnership of some of the nation’s largest and most progressive Brangus breeders, has retained the services of Dr. Darrell Wilkes to join and assist CDP’s strong customer service team, including sales and outreach to ranchers around the United States. Wilkes recently retired as Executive Vice President of the International Brangus Breeders Association (IBBA).

“Dr. Darrell Wilkes brings a wealth of knowledge about, not only the Brangus breed, but the BEEF industry as a whole. We are poised to expand our reach here at CDP Brangus and we truly believe that Dr. Wilkes is just the man to take us to the next level, both from a genetic, as well as a market reach standpoint. We are thrilled to add him to our team, as he is well respected industry wide and we’re proud to have him representing the CDP Brangus brand.” – Grady Green, Draggin’ M Ranch President and CDP PARTNER.

“Dr. Wilkes brings extensive experience in all aspects of the cattle industry and is highly respected throughout the field. I am excited to collaborate with him as we work to expand the reach of CDP genetics in the western states. His unmatched expertise in the feedlot segment will drive CDP forward, helping us achieve our goals and continue supporting our customers in producing feeder cattle that are highly sought after in the industry. Additionally, he offers cutting-edge knowledge in the packing phase. Overall, I am confident that Dr. Wilkes’ involvement with the CDP team will enhance continuity and further reinforce the integrity of our organization.” – Craig Green, CDP Brangus, Director of Marketing.

“I have been a fan of Brangus cattle for decades”, Wilkes said, “long before moving south and becoming intimately involved with this great breed. I’m simply too excited about Brangus to not stay involved in a meaningful way even as I fulfill the promise to my wife that I will kinda retire.”

Wilkes added, “CDP is exactly the kind of organization I can get behind. The partners and the cooperators are all focused on data-driven genetic improvement. I am 100% confident that I can help commercial cattlemen improve their herd productivity and profitability by assisting them in their genetic selections from CDP. I have been fortunate to work in every segment of the beef industry during my 40+ year career, from seedstock to cow-calf, feedlot and packing plant. I have a good understanding of the kind of cattle that actually boost a producer’s bottom line, and CDP has them. And, equally important to the quality of cattle, the quality of the people associated with CDP made this arrangement very appealing to me.”

Wilkes and his wife GayLynn currently live near San Antonio, TX and will be relocating to McCormick, South Carolina in 2025. “We’ll be near a couple golf courses and a large fishing lake”, Wilkes said, “but we’ll also be close to a lot of cowherds that can benefit immensely from a dose of CDP Brangus genetics. I look forward to meeting profit-oriented commercial producers in that area and assisting them in their herd improvement plans.”

Visit the www.cdpbrangus.com for contact information for Dr. Wilkes.

FRIENDS WE WILL MISS

Buck Thomason

August 21, 1947 — November 4, 2024

in Brangus cattle breeding, both domestically and internationally.

A third-generation Texas A&M graduate, Buck was an enthusiastic supporter of his Alma Mater and for all things Aggie. His love for Texas A&M was never more apparent than when he and Sidney cheered on the Aggies together, whether at Kyle Field or Reed Arena, proudly sporting maroon and white.

Rawle Buckner "Buck" Thomason, Jr., of Clifton, Texas, passed away on November 4, 2024, at the age of 77. A follower of Christ, devoted family man, passionate Aggie, skilled businessman, and an active member of his community, Buck’s life was defined by his generosity, vibrant personality, and deep commitment to the people and causes he cared about. His absence will be deeply felt, but his influence will continue to be felt by those he impacted.

Born on August 21, 1947, in Huntsville, Texas, Buck was a proud graduate of Huntsville High School, Texas A&M University (Class of 1969), and the University of Houston School of Law. His early career was marked by an ability to build successful ventures in diverse industries, most notably in construction and real estate development. Since he was a young boy, Buck was passionate about hard work, cattle and ranching. In 2003, he fulfilled a lifelong dream by transitioning to full-time ranching in Cranfills Gap, Texas at Indian Hills Ranch. There, he and his wife, Sidney, spent the last two decades living their passion for cattle ranching, specializing in Brangus cattle and remaining active

A tireless advocate for the improvement of his community, Buck worked diligently to enhance Bosque County in many ways. He played an instrumental role in the development and preservation of local landmarks, including the Bosque Arts Center, the Bosque Museum, and the Cranfills Gap Veterans Memorial, among others. His efforts were always driven by a deep love for the area he called home.

Buck’s generosity extended beyond business and community projects. Known for sharing his love of food and cooking, his homemade jellies and zucchini bread were regular gifts to friends and neighbors, a demonstration of his belief in sharing life’s abundance with others. He was never afraid of a challenge, seeing opportunity where others might see difficulty, and he encouraged those around him to do the same.

Buck is survived by his wife of 50 years, Sidney; daughter, Stacy Carroll, and husband, Adam; sons, Charles (still searching) and Rawle Buckner Thomason III (Trey), and wife, Alexis; as well as five grandchildren, Emily, Abigail, Kenady, Rachel, and Reid. He is also survived by siblings, Jeanie (Marshall) Smith, Edwin (Sandy) Thomason, and Dell Thomason. Services were held November 9, 2024, at First Presbyterian Church in Clifton, Texas.

Though he is no longer with us, Buck’s spirit will live on in the lives of all who knew him, his work, and the many projects he touched. His warmth, enthusiasm, and generosity of spirit will forever be remembered.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be sent to the Texas A&M Foundation, 401 George Bush Drive, College Station, Texas 77840. Please designate gifts “in memory of Buck Thomason” in the memo line of the check. To donate online, go to give.am and select ‘this gift is in honor of someone special.

Luke Adam Soileau

February 6, 1990 - December 14, 2024

Funeral services for Luke Adam Soileau, who passed away December 14, took place at a Mass of Christian Burial at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Ville Platte on Thursday, December 19. Burial was held at Pythian Cemetery in Bunkie.

A Ville Platte native, Luke was born on February 6, 1990, and attended Sacred Heart High School and McNeese State University. He joined the family business,

Progressive Tractor and Implement Company (PTI), and played an integral role in helping grow the company throughout Louisiana and beyond. Luke rose to the position of PTI regional manager after serving in numerous roles, including managing Shreveport operations and most recently, his position at PTI Powersports.

Luke will be remembered for his relaxed, friendly disposition, and adventurous spirit. He brought his love of people, food, and music to everyone he interacted with – family, friends, and coworkers. Luke always had a smile on his face and a contagious laugh. He enjoyed every opportunity he had to engage with people, telling stories and jokes. His adventurous spirit led him to a love of the outdoors, motorcycles, and boats. He enjoyed reading, art, and music.

Luke was a beloved son, brother, uncle, cousin, and friend to all who knew him. He leaves behind his father, Thomas Luke Soileau (Clara); his mother, Geneva Maria Soileau; his brother David Shane Soileau (Becky, Ema, & Koe); his sisters Allison Nicole Soileau and Frances Leigh Soileau; his grandmother, Josephine Alice (Jo Alice) Soileau; and many loving aunts, uncles, and cousins. Luke was preceded in death by his grandfathers, James Luke Soileau and Elwood James Hebert and his grandmother, Rose Mae Deville.

Lewis S. Wilson

September 21, 1934 ~ December 7, 2024

Lewis Scott “Scotty” Wilson, 90, of Troup, passed away on December 7, 2024, in Tyler, Texas. He was born on September 21, 1934, in Troup, Texas, to the late Dr. Hays L. Wilson and Ione Wilson.

Graveside services for Scotty Wilson were at 11:00 am, Saturday, December 14, 2024, at Pinecrest Cemetery, Troup, Texas with Reverend Jason Sutfin officiating.

Having graduated Troup High School in 1953, he attended Texas Tech and Sam Houston Universities before serving in the Army stationed in Germany from 1956-1958. He had a kind and compassionate heart for animals that lead him to his life’s work as a rancher, as well as a dairyman for 28 years. He was honored by the Cherokee County Soil and Water Conservation District in 1981, as the conservation farmer for Zone IV. Later, he became a member of the International Brangus Breeders Association, actively raising registered Black Brangus Cattle for 33 years. He enjoyed traveling with his life partner “Blonde”. They together learned to snow ski at the age of 52, took up competitive distant running shortly after and continued road racing well past his

next decade of life. He served on the Troup ISD School board during the point in time Title IX was passed into law. He was instrumental in promoting the girl’s athletic program for the district.

His life’s journey crossed paths with many over the years. Those fortunate enough to have met and spent some time with him were always left admiring him for his unique and genuinely authentic way. His impact and influence will be remembered for many years to come.

He is preceded in death by his parents and his wife of 59 years, Virginia “Bitsy” Wilson.

He is survived by daughters, Sally Jones (Franklin) of Nacogdoches, Melinda Wilson (Beth) of Troup; sons, Hays Wilson (Karlyn) of Destin, Florida; Ross Wilson (Shelly) of Whitehouse; 6 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren.

Special thanks to his dedicated care team: Tabatha Phillips, Deborah Gibson, Sam Dolese, Crysal Collinsworth, and Cindy Gamble. Our greatest appreciation for our extended family Fedencio Ramirez and Jessie Zavalla. We are forever grateful for your help. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Troup Chapter of Future Farmers of America, 927 Arp Drive, Troup. TX 75789 or Pets Fur People, 1823 CR 386, Tyler, TX 75708, or the charity of your choice.

SALESummaries

Cavender Ranches 20th Annual Sale

November 15, 2024 | Jacksonville , Texas

CUT

ABOVE SALE, CULLMAN, AL – APRIL 30, 2022

Lots Average

11 Brangus & Ultra Donors and 3N1's

$13,045

59 Brangus & Ultra lots grossed $239,350 to average $4,057

26 Mature Brangus & Ultra 3N1's

11 commercial lots grossed $11,200 to average $1,018

$11,615

The total sale grossed $250,550

14 Bred Brangus & Ultra Heifers

$13,964

45 Open Brangus & Ultra Heifers

$11,034

6 - sets of Embryos grossed $25,750, to average $4,292

3 -3-N-1 grossed $13,950, to average $4,650

12 Open Deadly Dozen Choice Heifers

$17,833

7 - bred cows grossed $25,400 to average $3,629

14 – bred heifers grossed $42,350 to average $3,025

108 Total Brangus & Ultra Female Lots Grossed $1,351,500

11 – pairs grossed $74,500 to average $6,773

Averaging $12,514

20 – open heifers grossed $50,250 to average $2,512

2 – bulls grossed $7,150 to average $3,575

Buyers from 6 states were on hand to compete for the high quality lots consigned by 20 breeders across the Southeast.

The highest selling lot MS. Boulder 000F16 with a heifer calf at her side, consigned by Vanna Farms, was purchased by L & K Farms for $26,000.

The volume buyer was Eagle Ridge Farms, Cottondale, Al -purchased 12 lots

All consigners and buyers are greatly appreciated.

177 buyers from 12 states and Mexico gathered at Cavender's Neches River Ranch for the 20th annual sale hosted by Cavender Ranches, Friday afternoon on November 15th. The standing room only crowd of enthusiastic bidders were greeted by crisp mornings and pleasant temperatures during the twoday event and by the fantastic Cavender hospitality and service. Buyers expressed their appreciation of the high-quality Brangus and Ultrablack females offered as they set a torrid bidding pace throughout the evening.

The 2023 Cut Above Sale will be in Cullman, AL on April 29, 2023 at 10:00 am

CAVENDER DRAGGIN’ M AND PARTNERS SPRING SALE

Registered Female Sale

The high selling female was Lot 34, CB MS Big Lake 63L37. She is a powerful full sister to CB Finished Product 63L10 and sold to Draggin M Ranch, El Dorado AR, Sewell Cattle Co. Eldorado and Triple T, Fayette AL. This open heifer sold for $42,000.

1 Registered Brangus Herd Sire grossed $15,000 to average $15,000

7 Brangus and Ultrablack 3N1’s grossed $67,500 to average $9,643

The second high seller was Lot 66, CB MS Oracle 5025L6 at $36,000. This open heifer featured elite growth and carcass and sold to Quail Valley Farms, Oneonta, AL.

10 Brangus and Ultrablack Donors grossed $79,500 to average $7,950

14 Spring Pairs grossed $45,750 to average $3,268

25 Fall bred Brangus and Ultrablack Heifers grossed $183,250 to average $7,330

65 Open Brangus and Ultrablack Heifers grossed $318,500 to average $4,900

3 Fall Pairs and Pregnant Recipients grossed $13,750 to average $4,583

The third high seller was Lot 79B, CB MS Express 135M, a February 2024 heifer and member of the Deadly Dozen choice heifers. She sold for $34,000 to Triple JR Cattle Co, Muldoon, TX.

125 Registered Lots grossed $723,250 to average $5,786 Commercial Females

324 Commercial pairs with Brangus and Ultrablack calves at side grossed $890,500 to average $2,748

59 Brangus and Super Baldy Bred Heifers grossed $140,950 to average $2,389

Lot 61 CB MS Gunsmoke 992L7 sold for $28,000. She featured elite growth and big carcass values in a thick package. She was purchased by Peanut Carr, Columbia, LA.

66 Open Brangus Heifers grossed $140,050 to average $2,122

449 Commercial Females grossed $1,171,500 to average $2,609

163 buyers from 12 states and Mexico were greeted by pleasant spring weather, mild temperature and welcoming hospitality from the hosts at Cavenders Neches River Ranch.

Also selling for $28,000 was Lot 78B CB MS Growth Fund 415M8. She is another Januaray 2024 heifer and member of the Deadly Dozen. She is a deep sided daughter of 415G75 who also sold in the donor section. She was purchased by ACE, American Cattle Enterprise, Oneonta, AL.

at the 2nd annual CDP Spring Female Production Sale. The sale featured Registered Brangus and Ultrablack cattle from the CDP group as well as customers and included 450 commercial cattle, many with calves at side sired by CDP bulls. The bidding was fast paced and furious as demand for quality Brangus seedstock ran high.

Lot 43, CB MS New Standard 406L21 fetched the bid price of $27,000. This deep centered, smooth made daughter of New Standard sold to Stover Ranch, Dallas, GA.

The day’s top selling female, at $25,000 was Lot 85, PR MS Crossroads 129J7. This powerful open heifer was consigned by Pennridge Farms, Paige, Tx. Her dam is a full sister to the dam of Modello and Herndon Farms, Lyons, Ga was the winning bidder.

The high selling Donor 3N1 was Lot 1 CB MS Brickhouse 75F18 and her good Paramount heifer calf at side by Paramount, Lot 1A. Lot 1, the dam of two heifers in the Deadly Dozen, sold to Chris Turner, Greenville, AL for $14,500. Lot 1A sold to Lacky Ranch, Karnes City, TX.

Briggs Ranch, Bloomington TX and Harris Riverbend Farms, Cleburne, TX teamed to eran the bid of $24,000 for Lot 107, MS DMR Resource 415J52. She was another stout open heifer and was consigned by CDP Partner, Draggin M Ranch, Eldorado, Arkansas.

The high selling Bred heifer at $20,000 was Lot 21, CB MS Never Surrender 2051L12. She boasted elite growth and big carcass number and was AI’d to CB Ledger 117K19. Hicks Ranch, LLC Alto, TX won the bid on this female.

B/K Beef LLC, Boerne, TX was the purchaser of the next high selling lot when they paid $22,500 to own Lot 42, MS DMR Empire 222H5. This bred heifer, safe to Growth Fund, was also consigned by Draggin M.

B/K Beef also purchased the day’s next high seller when they paid $20,000 to on Lot 41A, CB MS Capital Gain 117H20, another stylish bred heifer this time safe to Masterpiece. She was consigned by CDP Partner Cavender Brangus, Jacksonville, TX.

El Granizo De San Juan, Durango, Mexico purchased the next high seller when they paid $19,000 to own Lot 43, MS

SALESummaries

Cavender Ranches 20th Annual Sale

November 16, 2024 | Jacksonville , Texas

CUT

ABOVE SALE, CULLMAN, AL – APRIL 30, 2022

Brangus, Super Baldies, and F1 Commercial Females

153 First Calf Heifers

$4,066

59 Brangus & Ultra lots grossed $239,350 to average $4,057

265 Heavy Bred Heifers

$3,572

11 commercial lots grossed $11,200 to average $1,018

33 Spring Bred Heifers

The total sale grossed $250,550

28 Open Heifers

$4,044

$2,820

6 - sets of Embryos grossed $25,750, to average $4,292

3 -3-N-1 grossed $13,950, to average $4,650

The commercial Brangus pairs were topped at $4,900 for a pen of top Brangus pairs followed by two groups of pairs at $4,550.

125 Registered Lots grossed $723,250 to average $5,786 Commercial Females

The bred heifers were topped at $5,00 followed by two pens at $4,800 all Brangus heifers AI Bred to Express.

324 Commercial pairs with Brangus and Ultrablack calves at side grossed $890,500 to average $2,748

The top two pens of Brangus open heifers fetched $2,900 per head.

59 Brangus and Super Baldy Bred Heifers grossed $140,950 to average $2,389

49 Total Commercial Female Lots Grossed $1,781,000 Averaging $3,718

7 - bred cows grossed $25,400 to average $3,629

14 – bred heifers grossed $42,350 to average $3,025

11 – pairs grossed $74,500 to average $6,773

20 – open heifers grossed $50,250 to average $2,512

2 – bulls grossed $7,150 to average $3,575

Buyers from 6 states were on hand to compete for the high quality lots consigned by 20 breeders across the Southeast.

66 Open Brangus Heifers grossed $140,050 to average $2,122

449 Commercial Females grossed $1,171,500 to average $2,609

163 buyers from 12 states and Mexico were greeted by pleasant spring weather, mild temperature and welcoming hospitality from the hosts at Cavenders Neches River Ranch.

The highest selling lot MS. Boulder 000F16 with a heifer calf at her side, consigned by Vanna Farms, was purchased by L & K Farms for $26,000.

A large crowd gathered for Cavender Ranches 20th annual sale. Buyers, guest and consignors were greeted with great Texas hospitality and presented with a well-conditioned and wellpresented set of commercial cattle. Many of the commercial females had calves at side or were bred to AI sires from the powerful Cavender herd bull battery. Other were carrying the service of calving ease Cavender Ultrablack and Brangus bulls. The commercial females sold on November 15th were met with relentless demand.

The volume buyer was Eagle Ridge Farms, Cottondale, Al -purchased 12 lots

All consigners and buyers are greatly appreciated.

The 2023 Cut Above Sale will be in Cullman, AL on April 29, 2023 at 10:00 am