BRJ Jan/Feb 2009

brangus j

o

u

r

2009 Spring Sire Summary

n

a

l

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2009

IBBA Benefits...

Brangus Gold means IBBA genetics and known source.

The gold standard female for commercial beef production is the crossbred cow. Real world results from profit-driven producers prove that the crossbred female is not only the most productive, but also the most profitable female in the industry. And, one of the most productive and longest lasting females in the business is the Brangus crossbred female.

According to Dr. Bill Turner, Texas A&M University, “The brood cow herd is the cornerstone to profitability of a beef enterprise”.

And, Dr. Turner points out that research supports the fact that longevity and functionality are “two major advantages” of the Brangus-cross cow.

Look for the Brangus Gold tag when buying replacement females.

It doesn’t matter what she looks like; only the real thing gets the Brangus Gold tag.

If you are currently using IBBA bulls and are interested in putting more money in YOUR pocket by supplying Brangus Gold females, contact the IBBA or your IBBA seedstock supplier.

If you’re not using IBBA bulls, maybe it’s time you take a closer look at the many IBBA Benefits.

www.GoBrangus.com International Brangus Breeders Association

The Official Publication of the International Brangus® Breeders Association The Brangus Journal is an international news magazine serving the Brangus breed of beef cattle including Brangus crossbreds and Brahman and Angus stock necessary to produce Brangus cattle. Published monthly, except June, by Brangus Publications, Inc., P.O. Box 696020, San Antonio, Texas 78269-6020. This publication is designed to promote and develop the Brangus breed and serve the best interests of the producers. Publication #ISSN0006-9132. Periodicals postage paid at San Antonio, Texas, and additional entries.

Advertising: Sara Calhoun 210.696.8231 x216 (office) 210.861.7272 (mobile) sara_calhoun@int-brangus.org Subscriptions: Frances Miller 210.696-8231 x203 frances_miller@int-brangus.org

Postmaster: Send address changes to Brangus Publications, Inc., P.O. Box 696020, San Antonio, Texas 78269-6020.

Subscription Rates: Domestic Periodicals—1 year, $25; First class—$55. Foreign—1 year, periodicals, $25; air mail to Mexico, $70, Canada, $70, Australia, $115; air mail to all other countries, $115.

Contact: P. O. Box 696020, San Antonio, Texas 78269-6020 Physical Address: 5750 Epsilon, San Antonio, Texas 78249 Tel.: 210.696.8231 Fax: 210.696.8718 Web site: www.brangusjournal.com Email: brangusjournal@int-brangus.org The International Brangus® Breeders Association does not verify claims made by the advertisers in this publication.

2009 Spring Sire Summary

38

46

by Jeff Diles

by Mark Enns

The Bottom Line

Improving Calving Ease

44

Understanding Protection Claims on Vaccine Labels

by Soren Rodning

contentsJANUARY/FEBRUARY2009

64

Stay Connected to the

BRANGUS JOURNAL

without having to check your mailbox.

• Read articles online • Download and share PDF versions • Online archive of past issues • Online Advertising • Searchable by keyword or name

BRANGUSJOURNAL.COM

WWW.

International Brangus Breeders Association Mailing Address: P. O. Box 696020, San Antonio, Texas 78269-6020 Physical Address: 5750 Epsilon, San Antonio, Texas 78249 Tel.: 210.696.8231 Fax: 210.696.8718 Web site: www.GoBrangus.org Officers President: Robert Vineyard (979.532.4243) 1st Vice President: Dale Kirkham (620.583.5247) 2nd Vice President: E. Lynn White (318.386.2886) Secretary/Treasurer : Don Cox (281.395.1277) Member At Large : David Vaughan (770.382.4374) Executive Vice President : Dr. Joseph Massey (210.696.8231) 2008.2011 IBBA BOARD OF DIRECTORS Term Expires 2009 Marcos Borges, Wharton, Texas (979.532.8129) Dr. Bart Carter, Thatcher, Arizona (928.348.8918) Dr. John Spitzer, Fair Play, South Carolina (864.972.9140) Dr. Robert Vineyard, Wharton, Texas (979.532.4243) E. Lynn White, Monterey, Louisiana (318.386.2886) Term Expires 2010 Bill Morrison, Clovis, New Mexico (505.683.5278) David Vaughan, Cartersville, Georgia (770.386.0390) Brad Church, Kiowa, Oklahoma (918.432.5448) Angelo Zottarelli, Austin, Texas (254.471.5675) Term Expires 2011 Don Cox, Katy, Texas (281.395.1277) Bill Davis, Concord, Arkansas (336.210.1222) Dale Kirkham, Eureka, Kansas (620.583.5247) Russell Thomas Taylor, Alachua, Florida (386.462.1011)

BPI Officers and Board of Directors Chairman : Dale Kirkham (620.583.5247) President : Dr. Joseph Massey (210.696.8321 x212) Secretary/Treasurer : Don Cox (281.395.3800) Director : Dr. Robert Vineyard (979.532.4241 Director: E. Lynn White (318.386.2886) STAFF Carolyn Kobos: Administrative Assistant to the Executive VP (x211, carolyn_kobos@int-brangus.org) Jeff Diles: Director of Commercial Marketing (x202, jeff_diles@int-brangus.org) Frances Miller: Controller (x203, frances_miller@int-brangus.org) Duncan MacRae: Director of Communications (x215, duncan_macrae@int-brangus.org) Sara Calhoun: Journal Advertising Coordinator (x216, sara_calhoun@int-brangus.org) Rosanne Sralla: Registry Specialist (x206, rosanne_sralla@int-brangus.org) Patti Teeler: Accounting (x205, patti@int-brangus.org) Jim Bulger: Information Technologies Manager (x207, jim_bulger@gps-beef.com) Emilio Silvas: Application Developer (x204, emilio_silvas@gps-beef.com) Mary Douglass: Front Desk and Member Services Associate (x201, mary_douglass@int-brangus.org)

36

40

42

by Dr. Joseph M. Massey

by Dr. Robert C. Vineyard

by Mary Beth Farris

by Justin Shrader

What is Happening to the Seedstock Producer?

Person to Person

24. News & Noteworthy 60. Sale Reports 63. BPI Minutes 83. State Directory 90. Services 91. Calendar of Events 95. Advertiser Index

IBA: Relections & Revelations

IJBBA: On the Horizon

contentsJANUARY/FEBRUARY2009

23

membershipbenefits Total Herd Reporting (THR) is rapidly becoming the industry standard for reporting beef seedstock performance information, and the IBBA is emerging as a leader in THR. IBBA membership provides flexibility. IBBA membership includes a subscription to the ­Brangus Journal, the official publication of the IBBA. IBBA members receive a complimentary copy of the IBBA Breeder Handbook.

Brangus®, Red Brangus™, Ultrablack®, Ultrared™, Brangus Otimizer™, or Brangus Premium Gold™, its your choice. You choose the genetics that best fit your customers’ needs.

IBBA membership is full featured, not complex.

The Brangus Automated Registry Network (BARN) is the most advanced and user friendly registry system in the industry. In fact, for most breeders the BARN can eliminate the need for other herd management software.

IBBA membership provides access.

The IBBA is an active participant in the development of Multi-Breed EPD, and participates in the Beef Cattle Decision Support web-based software developed by Colorado State University and the National Beef Cattle Evaluation Consortium. Sorting and selecting genetics based on real economics positions IBBA members and their customers for increased profitability.

IBBA membership is global.

IBBA is an active member of US Livestock Genetics Export, Inc., allowing members to leverage their ability to market IBBA genetics worldwide. IBBA currently provides services to breeders in Australia, Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica, and Mexico.

IBBA membership creates opportunity.

The IBBA Business Plan adopted January 8, 2006 includes the following purpose statement: “Enable IBBA members to serve the commercial cattle industry.”

The beef seedstock business is becoming increasingly competitive, and today’s breeders need an association that is truly dedicated to the needs of its members’ customers.

HOTEL DISCOUNT FOR IBBA MEMBERS IBBA members, their families and friends can now receive specials rates* (12% discount) at over 650 La Quinta Hotels** nationwide for business or leisure travel.

HOW TO MAKE RESERVATIONS: Go to: www.lq.com 1. Select City, and Specific Hotel; Type in Promotional Code: IBBA Or 2. *Call 1-800-753-3757 (1-800-SLEEPLQ). Toll Free Reservations; Request: “ International Brangus Breeders Association Rate” Or 3. *Call Hotel’s Direct Number; Request: “International Brangus Breeders Association Rate” *Not available at some locations during special events or holidays **Limited # of Hotels do not participate in “Texas State Rates”

welcome our new members David L. & Lana S. Drake Lumberton, TX Thumann Cattle Company Dan Thumann Richmond, TX YJJ Farms Jack & Ylanda Brooks Molino, FL Roger & Lynn Richardson Tandala Holdings, LLC Nixa, MO John W. Lyon Dilworth Springs Land & Cattle Boerne, TX American Brangus Berry McEntire - Justin Hawkins Calhoun, GA

What What What What

is Happening to the Seedstock Producer?

by DR. JOSEPH MASSEY

I

n 2008 the national beef herd decreased by another 600,000 head to 31.9 million head, the smallest herd since the early-1960s and this trend is expected to continue throughout 2009. The seedstock segment of the beef herd lost the market for about 20,000 bulls in just one year and we can expect a similar loss in 2009. CattleFax does not expect this trend to change until the profit opportunity for commercial cattle improves. The trend will not change until the demand for beef at the retail level increases and/or exports increase since supply is greater than demand.

Feeders lost close to $150 per head in 2008, dramatically altering the business model that had kept them in business. One would have to believe that the models that have worked in the cattle business for decades are all questionable at best and “business as usual” no longer applies.

I was discussing these numbers with several members and their immediate response was that for Brangus to maintain bull sell we have to educate the commercial cattlemen on the merits of the Brangus breed. I would love to agree that this is the right approach or direction but I don’t believe that today. The rules for profitability in the commercial industry are being scrutinized in every aspect of the operation from feed sources, general production practices, labor inputs and how long will we keep ownership of our animals. I have not talked to one cattleman who is not evaluating every part of his operation.

For the seedstock producer, we are most likely in a more difficult period that ever before, since the commercial cattlemen is changing his practices and he will probably expect different attributes from the bulls he buys in the future. Seedstock producers are making breeding decisions today to produce bulls that will not be sold for about three years in the future. I would suggest that it is most important for our Brangus breeders to be willing to work with the commercial cattlemen

in understanding what will make them profitable. We must be willing to recognize the type of product that will make them profitable from a genetic stand point and incorporating these traits into our breeding programs. For the seedstock producer to stay viable, he will have to produce the genetics that will be demanded by the commercial cattlemen. We will have to be willing to change all characteristics that we think constitute a good animal today: mature size, growth rates, carcass traits, etc. and these changes will have to take environmental inputs into consideration. The Seedstock producer is no different than any other industry today; we might compare ourselves to the auto industry where all aspects of the industry may have to change to stay viable.

The IBBA member may have a new tool by mid-year to help us directly measure how Brangus cattle compare to other breeds.

We anticipate being able to roll out multi-breed EPDs for production and carcass traits in 2009. This tool will give us a direct comparison against breeds that participate in the multi-breed analysis. We will have to understand that this tool lets us compare our animals to other breeds but more importantly allows us to change the productions traits of our cattle to meet the desired outcome as demanded by our customers, the commercial cattlemen. Coming together as a breed to establish a strategic direction will be a must, we cannot do this individually. What is business as usual? Do we want business as usual? Common purpose and direction will be required if we expect to succeed Brangus Journal

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Dr. Massey has served as Executive Vice President of the IBBA since 2004. In 2007, he started Genetic Performance Solutions, LLC, a breed registry services and performance analysis company serving the cattle and breed association industry— a joint venture between the IBBA and the Red Angus Association of America. GPS manages online registry programs for breed associations and the data base management of performance data like multibreed EPDs.

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2009 | 23

NEWS&NOTEWORTHY

TBBA Calendar Correction Good News: all IBBA members received a 2009 Calendar with the December 2008 Issue, courtesy of the TBBA. Bad News: the October and November months were inadvertently printed in reverse order.

ďƒ‡ďƒˆ

The month of October should have been accompanied by the advertisement for the Doguet's Diamond D Ranch Annual Bull & Female Sale, held in Poteet, Texas on October 17, 2009. Additionally, the sale listing on October 17 incorrectly lists the location as Aliceville, AL (only off target by 828 miles!). To clarify...the sale is held in Poteet, Texas.

Consequently, the Month of November should have been accompanied by the advertisement for the Camp Cooley Annual Production Sale, held in Franklin, Texas, November 19-21, 2009.

Our sincere apologies for any confusion this created.

24 | JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2009

Brangus Journal

NEWS&NOTEWORTHY Recently, the IBBA office mailed out the Spring 2009 “No Progeny Reports”. These reports list those females in your spring inventory that have not had the necessary data reported on them for 2008.

What is the necessary “data” that needs to be reported?

During each 12-month period one of the following must be received for each "active" female on inventory: 1. A calf record (regardless of whether or not the calf will be registered) with all required information, including weaning data or a preweaning disposal code for the calf.

2. A disposal code for the female indicating that she is dead or has otherwise been culled from 'active' inventory

a.

2 - Sold Commercial

b.

3 - Died, Sickness or Disease

c.

4 - Died, Injury

d.

5 - Died, Calving Difficulty

e.

6 - Died, Old Age

f.

7 - Died, Reason Unknown

g.

8 - Culled, Quality Issue

h.

11 - Culled, Poor Performance

i. j. k. l. m. n. o. p.

14 - Culled, Fertility 15 - Culled, Illness 16 - Culled, Injury 17 - Culled, Poor Temperament 19 - Culled, Unsoundness 25 - Culled, Old Age 26 - Culled, Calving Difficulty 99 - Moved to Commercial Herd

3. A reason code for the cow's failure to produce a calf

a.

30 - Heifer not exposed to a bull

b.

31 - Open missed calving opportunity

c.

33 - Open, bull went bad

d.

34 - E.T. program donor cow

e.

35 - E.T. program recipient cow

f.

38 - Calf aborted/premature

g.

39 - Calf died at birth When is this information required to be reported?

Approximately 45 days prior to the inventory date (March 1 for spring; Sept 1 for Fall) the report will be distributed to members.

Update must be made by the applicable season’s inventory date.

Why is it necessary to provide the information?

The driving motivation behind THR is complete, unbiased reporting of the national Brangus herd. By capturing more complete data, we are able to return to you, our members, a more accurate EPD upon which you can base your breeding decisions and marketing strategies. In the past, only the best animals were reported thereby making half of them “bad” by comparison. Also, by not reporting inferior calves, results are skewed towards the good rather than reflecting their true breeding values. In today’s competitive market environment, we cannot survive with smoke and mirrors anymore.

What happens if the information is not provided?

Any female that does not have the information reported is removed from active inventory (deactivated) and is neither assessed nor invoiced for the current year.

OK. I messed up and missed the deadline. Are my cows gone forever?

No. But in order to have them reactivated, you will need to contact the registry department either by email (preferred), snail mail, fax or phone. Calf information OR reason code is still required for the past year. Reactivation fee is not charged if the office receives notification by the first of the month following deactivation.

26 | JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2009

Brangus Journal

NEWS&NOTEWORTHY 2009 IBBA Board of Director Election Results: Presented below are the results of the Regional Election of Directors of the International Brangus Breeders Association. The firm of Akin Doherty Klein and Feuge, P.C., IBBA accounting auditors counted the votes and reported the winners as follows: Congratulations!

Electoral Region 4 Doug Williams – Whip-O-Will Land and Cattle Electoral Region 6 R. L. Robbs – Robbs Brangus Electoral Region 7 Dr. Robert Vineyard (Incumbent) – Vineyard Cattle Company Electoral Region 8 Bill Felton – Coldwater Cattle Company Electoral Region 9 Steve Densmore – Circle X Land and Cattle Company

Doguet’s Diamond D Ranch Junior Scholarship Program Diamond D Ranch would like to introduce a new exciting incentive to our junior customers. Starting January 1, 2009, we will be implementing a scholarship program for all juniors showing Diamond D heifers. To be eligible, a heifer must have been purchased from Diamond D Ranch at our 2008 Production Sale or later. ie: No heifers purchased prior to the 2008 Production Sale are eligible. We would like to encourage juniors to contact us with any questions you might have about your heifers and also check out our new Junior Semen Incentive program at www.doguetranch.com The monetary breakdown for the scholarship program will be: NJBS

State Level Show

County Level Show

$1,000

$500

$250

Reserve Champion

$500

$250

$125

Class Winner

$250

$100

N/A

Champion

*Note: No money will be paid for Division Champions or Reserves’. *There is a maximum payout of $2,500 per junior, per year. *Bonus: Bred and owned Champions at state shows, regional shows or NJBS, that are out of a Diamond D bull or female are eligible for an additional $250. *In order to receive your check, you must supply Diamond D Ranch with a color 5” x 7” photo For more information, please contact Garrett Thomas at 210.834.0034 or visit www.doguetranch.com.

Brangus Journal

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2009 | 27

NEWS&NOTEWORTHY SPITZER RANCH PREPARES TO HOST THEIR LARGEST EVER PERFORMANCE TESTED BRANGUS BULL SALE Creation of the Salacoa Valley Farms-Spitzer Ranch Alliance and combining their respective cooperator programs has allowed an increase in number of bulls offered for sale at the Sixteenth Annual Spitzer Ranch Bull Sale. All 87 bulls have been through a performance growth testing and development program where they have had some kind of grazing throughout. The program is designed to get bulls plenty heavy enough to sort out performance, and certainly big enough to use, without compromising their athletic performance in the breeding pasture. Bulls sell with a full complement of health practices, a complete Breeding Soundness Evaluation and Carcass Ultrasound information. It goes without saying that all performance data “arithmetic” and complete EPDs will be provided on every bull. Additionally, a snapshot of the total performance record of the dam of each bull will be provided.

A recent survey by The Cattle Business Weekly reported results from 1,035 producers from 45 states representing 11,397 bull purchasing decisions and how these cowmen made those decisions.

The three most popular traits to evaluate were calving ease, growth and maternal in that order. In fact, producers ranked calving ease three times higher in importance than any other trait; followed by growth and maternal, then breeder reputation and finally animal appearance.

30 | JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2009

Brangus Journal

44% of this year’s bull offering will be flagged as “calving ease” bulls safe to use on heifers. In all 64% of sale bulls have Birth Weight EPDs less than breed average, 79% have Yearling Weight EPDs higher than breed average and 100% have Total Maternal EPDs greater than breed average The Spitzer Ranch Performance Tested Brangus Bull Sale and the Brangus Gold Customer Commercial Female Sale will be SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 28, 2009. The sales will be at the Calhoun Stockyards, Calhoun, GA (Please note new sale site.) In addition to the bulls they expect to have a good number of Brangus Gold Commercial Females from the cow herds of their customers. If you desire more information: Call the Spitzers at 864/972-9140 or 864/710-0257 (cell) or email spitzeranch@mindspring.com; Call Salacoa Valley Farms at 706/337-2295 or 864/723-3779 (Ben Spitzer’s cell) or email ben@svfbrangus.com and they will add you to their mailing list to receive informative Newsletters throughout the year and the Sale Catalog to be mailed in early February. You can also go to www.svfbbulls.com and or www.gobrangus.org and click on the “View Upcoming Sales’ Feature. At either web site you can study the complete performance test report on bulls from both Spitzer Ranch and Salacoa Valley Farms. And, please continue to check future issues of this publication for their ADs and other pertinent information.

PERSON

PERSON

I

realize that 2009 is full of uncertainties considering the Global economy, Government Bail Outs, and President Obama’s implementation of his agenda for the next four years. None of us have any control over these important factors; however, we all have some control of our future concerning our Brangus cattle and our Association.

The IBBA Board of Director’s elections are final and the results were posted on our website after Christmas.

There were five board seats up for election which represent almost 40% of our Board. We have four new Board members that will be seated at the end of our IBBA Board meeting in Houston. The results of the election: Area 4 – Doug Williams (North Carolina) Area 6 – R.L. Robbs (Arizona) Area 7 – Robert Vineyard (Texas) Area 8 – Bill Felton (Mississippi) Area 9 – Steve Densmore (Texas)* Congratulations to all of these men. I know all of these men well and they possess the knowledge of the “workings” of our Association. Steve Densmore is a past President and Bill Felton has previously served as an IBBA Board member – in fact, Bill and I served together in the past. Although we lose dedicated leaders in Dr. Bart Carter, Dr. John Spitzer, Lynn White, John Holland, and Marcos Borges (transition), we will not lose their participation in the Association.

There are pending IBBA issues that I need to bring to your attention. For the past three years, the Bylaw Committee has been working on a revision of our Bylaws that were needed at that time. There have been four men tirelessly working to get this job done – John Holland, David Vaughan, Dr. Spitzer, and Dale Kirkham.

This past September, the IBBA Board unanimously approved all the amendments to the IBBA Bylaws. Our IBBA attorney, Darin Digby, gave his approval after the vote of the Board. Your IBBA Board of Directors has given the required notice of the proposed amendments by publication in the Brangus Journal (December ’08) at least 45 days in advance of your Association’s annual meeting. Each member eligible to vote may do so by mailed ballot (will be sent in January ’09) or in person at the annual meeting (but not both). If at least 2/3’s of the members voting approve the proposed amendments, then the Bylaws will be effectively amended as

36 | JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2009

Brangus Journal

by DR. ROBERT VINEYARD, IBBA President

proposed. If any member has a question concerning the Bylaw amendments, call your IBBA Board representative, myself or Dr. Massey.

At the present time, the IBBA does not have a Genetic Defect Policy in place to protect our cattle, members, and our Association. With the approval of your IBBA Board, I appointed an AdHoc Committee to develop a workable, sound Genetic Defect Policy. The committee consists of Vern Suhn, Dr. Joseph Massey, Dr. John Spitzer, Dr. Milt Thomas, and myself. Dr. Thomas will serve as a scientific contributor with no voting privileges. The committee will work hard to have a policy available for our membership to consider at our annual meeting in March. Hopefully this policy can be in place for your IBBA Board’s action. The Arthrogryposis Multiplex (AM) diagnosis in Angus cattle has made us realize that we need protection for all associated with our Brangus cattle.

The inauguration of the 2009 Global Brangus Round-Up will take place on Sunday, March 8th during the IBBA Annual Convention in Houston. The Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo has attracted International Cattle Producers over the years, especially cattle people south of the US borders. This extra day has been added so that our members will be able to expose their breeding programs and genetics to the global Brangus community. The cattle do not have to be halter broken and are not required to be present at Houston. The event will be held at the George Ranch Historical Park in Richmond, Texas which is about 45 minutes from the Holiday Inn Astrodome Hotel. This event will be beneficial to our cattle and members and I encourage you to consider participating even if you do not plan to attend the IBBA Annual Convention. Call Jeff Diles or Carolyn Kobos for further details.

For the past few months, many cattle producers have asked “what’s next?” They are all referring to the outlook of commodity pricing for 2009. The other day I received a commodity outlook for 2009 that was prepared by known commodity experts that predicted $147 oil in January 2008. The outlook for live cattle prices was $0.85 for the first two quarters and improving to $1.00 by the end of 2009. If these predictions are within the ball park, we do have some positive pricing for our cattle coming out of the feedlot this fall. This prediction also priced corn at $5.25 bushel and a 12-month target for oil at $65/bbl. This scenario is fairly positive

*One-year unexpired term

The Bottom Line

by JEFF DILES, IBBA Director of Commercial Marketing Programs

F

air warning…I am going to jump topics some in this column, because there are several things happening that all IBBA members should be aware of.

Interest in both the OptimaxX and BRANGUS GOLD commercial marketing programs continues to grow. The OptimaxX program now includes nine ranches producing over 2500 OptimaxX eligible calves annually. The BRANGUS GOLD program has already signed on 12 producers representing more than 1100 eligible females on an annual basis. Clearly, there is a lot more to accomplish with both of these programs, but it is good to see the numbers growing.

There is also a new brochure highlighting the benefits of both of these programs that you can use to introduce your commercial customers and potential customers to these benefits available only to producers using IBBA genetics. If you would like copies of the brochure just contact the IBBA office. There will also be plenty of the brochures on hand to distribute during this year’s activities at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo (HLSR).

The first jump …

In addition to repeating the activities that made the annual IBBA event such a success in 2008, we’ve added a special event designed to increase international exposure for all IBBA members, the Global Brangus Roundup.

Global: relating to or happening throughout the whole world Brangus: one of the most globally adapted beef breeds in the world Roundup: a gathering together of people or animals

ABOUT THE AUTHOR In addition to being the Features Editor for FRONTLINE, Jeff Diles is the Director of Commercial Marketing Programs for the International Brangus Breeders Association and a cow-calf producer with interests in South Texas and Central Missouri.

The event will be held on Sunday March 8th at the George Ranch Historical Park in Richmond, Texas (less than an hour from HLSR). The event includes a morning informational program, good food, special entertainment and the IBBA Breeder Showcase, where we let IBBA members expose their breeding program to Brangus breeders from around the globe. We’ve already had confirmations from breeders in Belize, Colombia, Costa Rica, Paraguay, three different regions of Mexico, and South Africa. Our goal is to draw at least 50 breeders from around the globe and we are well on our way to surpassing that goal. The Global Brangus Roundup is just one more great reason to participate in the 2009 IBBA Annual Convention.

38 | JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2009

Brangus Journal

Here’s the next jump …

Ever wonder where the concepts of 205 day adjusted weaning weights, age-of-dam adjustments, or Total Herd Reporting (THR) came from? Every year the seedstock industry gathers at the Beef Improvement Federation (BIF) Annual Research Symposium and Annual Meeting to evaluate new ways to produce better genetics for the industry. The most progressive seedstock producers in the United States make every effort to participate every year, so that they are current on the latest advancements and research in the field of beef cattle selection and breeding. The 2009 meeting is set for April 30th to May 3rd at the Sheraton Grand Hotel in Sacramento, California. Session topics will include Genome Selection in the Beef Cattle Industry, Genetic Goals in an Era of High Input Costs and Economics of Beef Cattle Production. The Federation will also hold their annual committee meetings for producers addressing six topic areas: Producer Technology Application, Cow Herd Efficiency and Adaptability, Emerging Technologies, Live Animal, Carcass and End Product Evaluation, Selection Decisions, and Genetic Prediction.

A pre-conference tour on Thursday, April 30th will visit a cutting horse demonstration at Rancho Murietta’s equine facility, a winery, and the cattle operation of Duane Martin and Son, one of the top 10 cow-calf operators in the United States. The post-conference tour on Sunday, May 3rd will head to the coast and will visit Drake’s Bay Family Farm, which raises grass-fed beef and oysters, and then go on to the Bodega Bay Marine Laboratory and the beach.

If you’re serious about breeding the best possible seedstock, you should seriously consider putting BIF on your calendar every chance you get. To register for the conference and tours, and also to book hotel accommodation, go to the conference website located at http:// www.calcattlemen.org/bif2009.html. The special BIF hotel rate of $139/night is only available through April 3, 2009.

One last jump …

The US beef industry like the entire US economy is still facing some tough times. And, the seedstock sector of the industry is especially vulnerable. I am convinced that Brangus is one of the few breeds poised to actually gain market share through these rough times. There are currently too many unadapted cattle in environments where Brangus cattle can thrive. However, gaining market share will not be easy. A customer focus, a commitment to producing the right genetics for the industry, and a willingness to step out and do things that are not the "same old same-old" will make the difference

IBAreflections&revelations

You’re Invited!!

Make plans now to get involved in the IBA and attend our annual meeting during the IBBA Convention in Houston.

The meeting and luncheon will take place at the Holiday Inn Astrodome at Reliant Center on March 6, 2009. Our Annual Board of Directors Meeting will be combined with our General Membership meeting in an open forum, followed by our luncheon. We’ll have plenty of time for shopping the exhibits in Reliant Center before the banquet that evening.

Last year I challenged our members to be the speakers at our luncheon. It was amazing to hear the stories each of you had to tell about how being involved with the Brangus breed has enriched your life. For those who were lucky enough to be there—remember, “Keep your fork”.

If you weren’t able to attend and are wondering what that means—come and see!

I hope to see you in Houston!

Mary Beth Farris IBA President

2009 Annual Convention IBA schedule of events: Friday, March 6th 9:00-11:00 am

IBA Scholarship Committee Meeting - Committee Members only (Holiday Inn Astrodome at Reliant Center)

11:30 am

IBA Board of Directors, General Membership Meeting and Luncheon- Open forum (Bayou Grill Holiday Inn Astrodome at Reliant Center)

6:00 am

IBBA Cocktail Reception - Reliant Center

7:00 pm

IBBA Awards Banquet - Reliant Center

Saturday, March 7th 12:30 pm

International Brangus and Red Brangus Show (Reliant Center/Main Arena)

7:00 pm

Genetic Edge Sale (Brangus and Red Brangus)

Sunday, March 8th 9:00 am

Buses depart Holiday Inn Astrodome Hotel for George Historical Ranch

10:00 am

IBBA Welcome and Educational Presentations

12:00 noon

Lunch

1:30 pm

Cattle Displays

5:00 pm

Return to Houston

INTERNATIONAL BRANGUS AUXILIARY OFFICERS President: Mary Beth Farris 918 Lemons Gap Road, Tuscola, Texas 79562 (325.554.7838) First Vice-President: Sidney Thomason P.O. Box 81, Cranfills Gap, Texas 76637 (254.597.7140) Second Vice-President : Pam Doiron, P.O. Box 1029, Santa Ynez, California 93460 (805.688.8310) Secretary: Rhumina Stofa 9096 Bilnoski, Willis, Texas 77378 (936.344.2003) Treasurer: Janet Greuel 438 Price Rd., Brooks, Georgia 30204 (770.719.8118) Historian: Jodi Jackson 3099 Horseshoe Bend Road, Waco, Texas 76708 (254.836.4320)

40 | JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2009

Brangus Journal

DIRECTORS Karen Lucherk, Texas Joy Reznicek, Alabama Patti Townsend, New Mexico Barbara Watson, Louisiana Susan Vaughan, Georgia

IJBBAONTHEHORIZON

A OFFICERS President: Ben Fuller, Texas Ex-Officio: Christine Schwerin, Arkansas BOARD OF DIRECTORS: Kate Farris, Texas Chelsie Meyer, Oklahoma Haley Weiss, Texas Daniel Watson, Louisiana Alex Brull, Kansas Justin Shrader, Texas IBBA Youth Department info@int-brangus.org

42 | JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2009

Brangus Journal

ll my life I have been told that my actions are reflections on my family. Sometimes I felt like the entire community was my family. They were always, as it was so kindly explained to me, looking out for my best interest. I think everyone who lives in a small town knows what I’m talking about. If you do something wrong, your parents know before you get home. But I wouldn’t have it any other way. When I purchased my first Brangus heifer I quickly realized my family had expanded. Each time I unloaded my cattle from the trailer at a stock show, I was there, not only representing myself and my cattle, but also representing my 4-H Club and FFA Chapter. My actions, and esby JUSTIN SHRADER pecially how I dealt with successes and failures, reflected on my breeder, my scramble sponsor, and the many volunteers that made the shows possible. That family expanded once again when I was elected as a Junior Director on the IJBBA board. In January, I attended my first meeting as a new director. I quickly realized I couldn’t have hand-picked a better family. The group of junior directors are great young people and their families are equally as great. Mr. Randy Deshotel, an advisor for the junior board, put a trip together for the IJBBA directors to allow us time to work on several of our responsibilities, such as Houston and Junior Nationals. I thank him for all of his hard work on our behalf. Speaking for my fellow junior directors, we are anxious to get to work representing the Brangus breed and beef producers across the nation. This Spring, when we unload our cattle at the stock shows I encourage you to remember that as Brangus breeders we are part of a big family. After all, the Brangus family is the best the industry has to offer. Represent them well! 

by SOREN RODNING, DVM, MS, DACT

Understanding Protection Claims on Vaccine Labels

A

successful herd health program involves proper herd immunization (vaccination) to prevent and/or control a variety of infectious diseases. However, selecting the proper vaccines for your herd can be a difficult task considering the large number of vaccines that are available.

Therefore, some things to consider when developing a vaccination program for your herd are: 1) determining the goals of your vaccination program (e.g., what diseases do you want to prevent and/ or control, and in what type/age animal?); 2) discussing these goals with your veterinarian and/or Extension agent; and 3) understanding a vaccine’s expected level of protection.

Every vaccine bottle or product insert has information related to its expected level of protection. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) can grant one of five possible levels of protection based on a thorough analysis of supporting efficacy and safety data. The five levels of protection, in order from greatest protection to least protection, are: 1. Prevention of infection 2. Prevention of disease 3. Aid in disease prevention 4. Aid in disease control 5. Other claims The Center for Veterinary Biologics (CVB), which is part of the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) of the USDA, is the agency that evaluates vaccines and recommends the appropriate label protection claims. Vaccine manufacturers may voluntarily choose a lesser label protection claim, but they cannot increase their label claims without the supporting data. Understanding label claims is therefore one way to evaluate the expected efficacy of a vaccine, but remember that these claims only apply when products are administered according to label directions. So what do these levels of protection mean?

Prevention of Infection Prevents all colonization or replication of the challenge organism.

A claim that it is intended to prevent infection may be made only for products able to prevent all colonization or replication of the challenge organism in vaccinated and challenged animals. If such a conclusion is supported with a very high degree of confidence by

44 | JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2009

Brangus Journal

convincing data, a label statement such as "for the prevention of infection with [specific microorganism]" may be used. This claim is rarely granted.

Prevention of Disease Highly effective in preventing clinical disease. A claim that it is intended to prevent disease may be made only for products shown to be highly effective in preventing clinical disease in vaccinated and challenged animals. If so, a label statement such as "for the prevention of disease due to [specific microorganism]" may be used.

Aid in Disease Prevention Aids in preventing disease by a clinically significant amount. A claim that it is intended to aid in disease prevention may be made for products shown to prevent disease in vaccinated and challenged animals by a clinically significant amount which may be less than that required to support a claim of disease prevention (see above). If so, a label statement such as "as an aid in the prevention of disease due to [specific microorganism]" may be used.

Aid in Disease Control Aids in the reduction of disease severity, duration or onset. A claim that it is intended to aid in disease control may be made for products which have been shown to alleviate disease severity, reduce disease duration, or delay disease onset. If so, a label statement such as "as an aid in the control of disease due to [specific microorganism]" or a similar one stating the product's particular action may be used.

Other Claims Products with beneficial effects other than direct disease control.

Products with beneficial effects other than direct disease control, such as the control of infectiousness through the reduction of pathogen shedding, may make such claims if the size of the effect is clinically significant and well supported by appropriate data.

These Protection Statements are outlined by the USDA, APHIS, Veterinary Services Memorandum No. 800.202, June 14, 2002.

The next time you evaluate your herd’s vaccination program remember to read vaccine labels for proper storage, dosage, route of administration, as well as the expected level of protection

by MARK ENNS, PhD

Improving Calving Ease

A

few months ago, we introduced a mechanism for Brangus breeders to send questions related to genetic improvement and genetic evaluation. From my perspective this has been very successful—we have had feedback from readers and continue to receive new questions that are top in the minds of Brangus breeders.

This month’s column stems from some of the feedback I have received. These particular comments come from a breeder that has clearly spent a considerable amount of time contemplating and researching the importance of birth weight.

These comments and questions arise from some statements that I made in the June-July issue relative to the concept of economically relevant traits. Specifically my comment focused on the concept of economically relevant traits and dealt directly with the importance of birth weight and calving ease EPD in selection programs. In brief, I wrote: …if both calving ease and birth weight EPD are available, then selection decisions should be made using the calving ease EPD—after all calving ease is the economically relevant trait. Economically relevant traits are traits for which genetic change always influences your revenue or costs of production. An increase in calving ease results in fewer assisted births, shorter postpartum intervals in females, and more vigorous, live calves. The calving ease EPD already accounts for the differences in birth weight. However, if no calving ease EPD exists, then selection decisions should be based on the indica-

tor trait EPD for birth weight. The birth weight EPD is merely an indicator of calving ease because it is indirectly related to your income or your costs of production. Birth weight is an indicator because if you reduce birth weight 1 lb in your herd, it does not always translate into lower costs or increased income.

The breeder’s follow-up comments to my statement above were "It was with great interest that I read your article in this June-July issue, as I have thought much about the value of the Birth Weight EPD and I believe that there remains more to be written of its value. I think lowering the birth weight 1 pound will always translate into lower costs and increased profits. Does a cow that consistently has low BW calves remain in the herd longer? Logically, yes…" The breeder goes on to state that one of the largest contributors to costs is the cost associated with replacing a culled female, and that cows that fall out early cost you money.

This breeder is spot-on—cows that are culled from the herd early, no matter what the reason, are a large cost for any operation and in turn reduce profitability.

There are costs associated with developing a heifer to replace that female and there is a reduction in weaning weight because that heifer will wean a lighter calf than the older cow that was culled. Both of those reduce profitability. The breeder referenced several studies to reinforce the premise that dystocias have a large influence on profitability. Both of these studies showed strong evidence that incidence of calving ease reduced the productive life of the cows in comparison to cows

 46 | JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2009

Brangus Journal

Get Ready Wednesday, March 4th 7:00 am Cattle admitted to HLSR 2:00 pm IBBA Executive Committee Meeting 3:30 pm Brangus Publications Inc. Board Report 6:00 – 7:00 pm Membership Cocktail Reception (Reliant Center) Dinner on your own Thursday, March 5th 8:30 am Committee Report: Commercial Marketing 9:30 am Committee Report: International Marketing 10:30 am Committee Report: Finance 11:30 am Lunch on your own 1:00 pm Committee Report: Membership and Education 2:00 pm Committee Report : Promotions 3:00 pm Committee Report: Breed Improvement 4:30 pm Committee Report: Show Advisory - (Reliant Center) Dinner on your own

Sunday, March 9:00 am 10:00 am 12:00 noon 1:30 pm 5:00 pm

Go!

The 2009 IBBA Annual Convention will be held in conjunction with the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo March 4th thru 8th Friday, March 7:30 am 8:00 am 8:30 am 9:30 am 9:45 am Lunch on your own 6:00 pm 7:00 pm

6th General Membership Meeting Breakfast IBBA Year in Review – Dr. Joe Massey Special Presentation Break IBBA Board of Directors Meeting International Cocktail Reception – Reliant Center IBBA Awards Banquet – Reliant Center

Saturday, March 7th 8:00 am New Board Member Orientation 12:30 pm International Brangus and Red Brangus Show – Reliant Center / Main Arena 7:00 pm Brangus Sale (Brangus and Red Brangus) – Reliant Center Sunday, March 8th 6:00 am – 6:00 pm All cattle released from HLSR

8th - Brangus Global RoundUp Buses depart Holiday Inn Astrodome Hotel for George Historical Ranch IBBA Welcome and Educational Presentations Lunch Cattle Displays Return to Houston

The Headquarters Hotel for the Convention is the Holiday Inn Astrodome, located at 8111 Kirby Drive just north of the HLSR Reliant Center grounds. Rooms are sold out at the Holiday Inn. Rooms are available at the SpringHill Suites by Marriott (directly across the street from our headquarters) with rooms starting at $149 plus tax. For reservations,call (713) 796-1000, mention code IBBN.

Get Set

Registration is required to attend the meeting, social activities and Brangus Global Round-up.

Full Registration includes: - Admittance to all membership and committee meetings - 2 Drink Tickets for the Membership Reception - One Meal Ticket for the Membership Meeting Breakfast - One Meal Ticket for the Awards Banquet including 2 drink tickets for the International Cocktail Reception - Admittance to Global Brangus Round-up meetings and lunch Registration Name Badges will be required for admittance to all membership and committee meetings. Meal Tickets will be required for the Membership Breakfast, Awards Banquet and Global Brangus RoundUp Lunch.

To register ...

Download and complete the 2009 Convention Registration Form from www.int-brangus.org and mail with your check, money order or credit card payment to: International Brangus Breeders Association, 5750 Epsilon, San Antonio, TX, 78249. You may also fax the form with credit card payment to (210) 696-8718.

The IBBA office will gladly fax you a copy of the 2009 Convention Registration Form if you are not able to download from the website.

Full Registration

Before February 16

After February 16

Or Pick and Choose (Pre-registration only ):

IBBA Member

Guest or spouse

IBBA Member

$135

$160

Membership Cocktail Party (2 Drink Tickets)

$15

$10

Guest or Spouse

$115

$125

Membership Breakfast and Meetings

$70

$45

IBBA Awards Banquet (includes 2 drink tickets)

$80

$80

Global Brangus RoundUp (meetings and lunch)

$35

$35

IJBBA Member Registration (Pre or Late but NOT Onsite) Banquet Registration

$65

Global Brangus RoundUp

$25

Onsite Registration (No pick and choose) IBBA or IJBBA Member

$200

Guest or Spouse

$170

** International guests registered with HLSR are invited to attend the International Cocktail Reception, Awards Banquet and the Global Brangus RoundUIp free of charge.

Make plans now to not be left out!

 that never experienced a difficult birth. In fact, cows that experienced a difficult calving had a 58% higher risk of culling than cows that calved unassisted. This is a key point—any time a cow is assisted at calving, there are costs to the operation. Increasing the portion of heifers (and cows) that calve unassisted will reduce costs and in turn improve profitability, all else equal. I do not think we can overestimate the importance of females calving unassisted.

The question then becomes "what is the best way to increase the proportion of our females calving unassisted?" and that goes back to the original statement. Currently, birth weight EPD are the best method to select bulls that produce progeny that are born unassisted.

In the future, calving ease EPD will potentially become available to Brangus breeders. When calving ease EPD are available, they will be the best tool to genetically improve calving ease as they incorporate all of the birth weight information, and additional factors influencing calving ease beyond birth weight, such as shape of the calf.

The IBBA is one of the leaders in the adoption of multi-breed EPD and other new technologies for genetic improvement. It is that progressive perspective that makes me believe calving ease EPD will eventually be adopted as well. Until then, birth weight EPD is the best tool to use to increase calving ease of your herd and considerable progress can be made using that tool.

Growing up working our family’s wheat and cattle operation in Oklahoma, I learned to love agriculture and the beef industry and in my career, I have been fortunate to not only teach college students about genetic improvement in the beef industry but also to interact with beef cattle breeders who are truly interested in producing better cattle and becoming more profitable—those interactions are an extremely satisfying and stimulating part of my job. I encourage Brangus breeders to continue to send in questions and comments relative to genetic improvement. Send those to brangusjournal@int-brangus.org

Dr. Enns’ research focuses on methods to genetically evaluate and select animals that fit their production environment both biologically and economically. These efforts include development of new methods for evaluating and improving cow and heifer fertility, cow maintenance requirements, time to finish in the feedlot; and development of methods to better use economic information in selection decisions for increased profitability of beef production.

50 | JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2009

Brangus Journal

FEATURE | by Clifford Mitchell

Difference Makers

Feed Efficiency Adds Value to Production Cycle

P

rofessional sports franchises have a distinct pecking order when it is time for a decision to be made. The owner provides financial stability and calls on his staff to put together a winning combination. Closed door meetings often bring the general manager, a talent evaluator and the manger together with a financial consultant to institute policy.

They compile countless data sets to identify the missing pieces to the puzzle that separates a contender from a mediocre organization. These personnel decisions often revolve around “difference makers” and which ones it will take put the team over the proverbial top based on needs for the franchise.

Cattlemen face a much more daunting task. There is usually not that clear cut pecking order to the decision making process. More importantly, sometimes there is not the precise data set available to make the change dealing with certain traits that are costly and time consuming to gather information. Efficiency is often a word thrown around, whether from a reproductive standpoint or from a feed conversion standpoint, to sell a product. In reality both are expensive traits to evaluate and there is currently little evidence to support either claim.

Finding the “difference makers” will lead to eventual profits, but could be like stepping off into the realm of the unknown for most producers. The old-timers have always said money is made in the feedlot through the feeding process and if cattle can convert better during this time frame, they have a better chance of hitting the home run. Until now, there has been little market incentive and even fewer ways to measure feed efficiency for cattlemen looking to improve this trait.

“We have never really had the technology in place to measure individual feed intake and it has taken the industry a long time to get around to it,” say Dr. Monty Kerley, University of Missouri.

“The challenge is we have very limited data in the ABOUT THE AUTHOR realm of feed efficiency. Up until now, there has been Clifford Mitchell is a second no economic incentive to gather this type of data,” says generation cattleman who currently owns and operates Dr. Tom Field, Colorado State University.

As costs continue to increase, feed efficiency is playElkhorn Creek, a freelance communications business in ing a larger role in the value equation. Not to say it is Guthrie, Oklahoma. Upon more important than other economically relevant traits, graduation from Oklahoma but improvements could enhance the bottom line.

State University he began a “When I rank profit drivers for feedlot cattle: feed career in communications, efficiency is first, followed by carcass traits and carcass starting as a field reporter. weight. We feed a lot of calf-feds and a difference in Mitchell currently writes conversion of one pound correlates into a $90 dollar for a wide range of beef difference, based on $4 corn. Feed efficiency is huge,” publications.

52 | JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2009

Brangus Journal

says Dan Dorn, Decatur County Feedyard, Oberlin, Kansas.

“I don’t know of anything that can impact the bottom line as much as feed efficiency from a dollar standpoint,” Kerley says. “There is $80 to $120 per head out there if you can select for feed efficiency and make some improvement.”

Improving feed efficiency will not automatically improve profit. Like many other selection tools, cattlemen must define their process to include multiple traits in a genetic package.

“Cattlemen can get in just as much trouble single trait selecting for feed efficiency as anything else. There are some extremely efficient cattle that can’t gain weight,” Kerley says. “An animal has to have the genetics to grow and perform. There is no visual phenotype that can get a read on efficiency.”

“Nine times out of 10, your higher grading cattle are less efficient. As the quality grade goes up, usually conversion will go up or get worse,” Dorn says. “There is also a misconception where people think high performing cattle are more efficient, but this isn’t always the case. We have to find a happy medium between performance and carcass quality.”

“The value of feed efficiency data is a great place for the industry to use biology and genetics to help the bottom line,” Field says. “To get the needed data, the industry will have to make a long term investment in technology. To capture the genetic pieces to evaluate this trait, we’ll have to trace it back to specific genes.”

As the industry searches to find a way to identify differences in feed efficiency, many tools are coming to the forefront that seem to be a step in the right direction. One of the more common measures, at this stage, is Residual Feed Intake (RFI).

“RFI measures the metabolic efficiency of a particular animal. It measures the differences it takes to get a 6 weight to 1250 pounds and there are noticeable differences from top to bottom. Unfortunately, large scale facilities to measure RFI are few and far between,” Kerley says. “How to put that number in a form producers can use is the million dollar question. We know the heritability in feed efficiency is somewhere between 35% and 40%.”

“We use the GrowSafe system which works off RFID tags and a bull can eat at any bunk. The system identifies the bull and weighs the feed eight times per second,” says Kent Abele, Green Springs Bull Test, Nevada, Missouri. This is one of the few facilities in the United States currently using this system.





Individual evaluation brings to light differences that could be testing new waters for some producers. As margins continue to get tighter, the need to identify cattle that can meet expectations in a variety of areas has never been more pronounced.

“It is amazing the differences we find with individuals in groups of similar genetics.

A lot of people think since they have similar genetics, cattle should perform close to the same, but that isn’t always true,” Dorn says.

“The value of feed efficiency is at least four times greater than quality grade. The key is finding cattle that can be efficient and grade Choice. From most efficient to least efficient, there is easily $120 difference in cattle of the same quality grade.”

“In our 112-day test we find a $120 difference in feeding cost from top to bottom,” Abele says. “RFI is a great tool because it measures how much more or less a bull has to eat to perform above average.”

“Producers are motivated faster with lost profit. Look at the swine industry. In 2007, it saw increased sow slaughter,” Field says.

“I wouldn’t be surprised to see the pork industry remove entire sow lines from the production chain based on feed efficiency. We

54 | JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2009

have to find a way to gather information to improve efficiency.”

The ethanol boom is here! And the beef business is struggling to get a handle on how to deal with its increased demand for corn.

Current world economies are also demanding more of the product. As these factors continue to hinder the profitability in every segment of the beef industry, cattlemen are searching for ways to remain competitive.

“As feed prices continue to rise, more efficient animals are going to use less feed.

Some producers are incorporating other foodstuffs, but as corn price goes up, they walk up with it” Kerley says. “None of these ingredients have anything special about them. Everyone has to find the least cost nutrients. You have to have a selection process to improve efficiency.”

“We’re going to have to figure out how to optimize production in the cow herd with lower quality resources and how feed efficiency works with ethanol byproducts,” Field says. “As time goes on, there will be a struggle for acres and cattle will have to perform under harder conditions. Will these same cattle work when times get tough?”

The list of variables in beef production continues to get longer. As questions arise,

Brangus Journal

what steps should producers take to answer these questions? Getting started seems to be the hardest part, no matter what problem faces the industry.

“This is not a time for the industry to sit on their hands. I think this could be one of the few times where action will beat inaction, even if the action is wrong,” Field says.

“There are lots of pieces. I think we’re at a time where producers have to find answers.

We have to get information and, for the time being, what we have may be a culling tool not necessarily a selection tool. Producers need to find a way to get rid of the bottom end.”

“Retained ownership is a good option for producers looking to identify differences in their herd. The market should gravitate to more efficient cattle. Corn price is at a higher level now than we have ever seen before and I don’t see it going down in the near future, if ever,” Dorn says. “Get with a customer and send cattle to a feedyard that tracks individuals. Estimate a break even and then evaluate data to see how close you were to your goal. Where were the losers? Eighty percent of your loss always comes from the bottom 20%. Don’t select for extremes, but eliminate the losers. These tests are a proving ground. 

Taking data back to the herd will encourage changes.”

“Right now, all we can do with RFI is measure contemporary groups. I don’t think the emphasis needs to be on the top one third, but there is not a lot of danger in putting selection pressure on that bottom end,” Kerley says. “Differences in feed efficiency are more pronounced in the cow herd than in the feedlot.”

Some companies are currently touting DNA markers to help identify this trait. At the time, this data might not tell the whole story, but give breeders an indication of where the program rates. Unfortunately, as with many evaluation tools, for now, there is no right or wrong answer.

“Feed efficiency is hard to measure, but the only way to make improvements is to test for it in one way or another,” Dorn says.

“We can’t manage what we don’t test. Technology is coming and DNA markers could help quicken the process.”

“The industry has to unite to answer the question. Breed associations need to make partnerships with private companies,” Field says. “Make it a priority to identify these DNA markers so we can use the technology.”

Good honest data is of utmost importance no matter what trait the industry is trying to evaluate. Health and environment can skew these numbers. Producers must take steps to identify problems in the data gathering process so they do not over manage a problem that is not necessarily there.

“Without question, environmental factors and health programs have to be considered in our evaluations,” Kerley says. “We have to have good data. It can’t be skewed by health or poor management.”

“Any outside event can hurt feed efficiency. Sickness can be a real drag on an animal,” Dorn says. “Once you have tested the cattle then it’s time to manage. Ask questions like: Did the non-efficient animal get sick or was weather a factor?”

The beef industry has seen many crossroads. Finding value in production alternatives is nothing new. It has not been too long ago many producers were asking the same questions on how to improve carcass traits.

“We have to invest in good data. Twenty to 25 years ago the industry was informed it had to improve carcass traits,” Field says.

“Once we figured out how important it was to beef demand, we got a lot accomplished.

I think feed efficiency will follow a similar course. Once we make a concentrated effort from an industry standpoint.”

Improving feed efficiency is not just relegated to feedyard cattle. Just like carcass traits, the overall worth will be measured by how a producer can take this data to the cow herd. According to Kerley, some big differences may be seen during the non-lactation period.



56 | JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2009

Brangus Journal



“At the research farm on campus, we compared the top third to the bottom third and it took 20% less forage for the top end,” Kerley stated. “If you’re short of hay or short of grass you’re going to feel it at the end of the year. Small improvements in efficiency can make the difference. Selecting heifers based on efficiency could lead to, basically, running one cow for free once efficiency is improved within the herd.”

“I am not sure we can evaluate feed efficiency from a standpoint where animals are fed high energy diets,” Field says. “I am curious to see whether or not in the long run, this data will translate into the cow herd. No doubt there is money there once we identify differences. The challenge is the expense we’ll have developing the selection tools.”

The market is sending signals for improved feed efficiency. This has been foreshadowed by other signals that left producers scratching their head wondering where the paycheck is for doing a better job. Revenues for improved feed efficiency may not be as cut and dried as a carcass premium or a bonus for pre-conditioned cattle.

“Cattlemen spend money daily to buy semen or genetic packages to improve a desired bundle of traits and expect to get paid.

Improving feed efficiency may not necessarily improve sale price, but you’re producing more with the same input costs,” Kerley says.

58 | JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2009

“Improved efficiency means reducing feed costs. Whether it’s the land it takes to run cows on or purchased inputs.”

“The RFI tested bulls will usually sell for more money, but they are typically the better bulls,” Abele says. “I charge $100 per bull to gather the data and can’t guarantee they’ll get that back in the sale price. We have a group of buyers who own cattle from conception to consumer who will only buy RFI tested bulls. It is comforting to know there are producers who have enough foresight to measure RFI.” “There are many individual points that need to be evaluated to determine value. The Choice/Select spread will play a role because if it’s low then there may be an advantage to a more efficient animal that grades Select,” Dorn says. “A small difference in conversion could be $30 a head profit, with $4 corn.”

The talent evaluators of a professional franchise, like cattlemen, must take a lot of things into account before they spend the money to try and improve their team. Many intangibles, like background checks or “the tale of the tape”, figure into this decision.

Cattlemen must rely on the tools available to try and improve. In professional sports, they have decisive numbers to appraise what that player will bring. In the beef business, there is always a time lapse for certain elements to catch up. Once in place,

Brangus Journal

these numbers often change faster than the production cycle. Finding “difference makers” will help position the herd to take the next step. Profitability, not championship rings, could hang in the balance.

“As time goes on, producers are going to have to look for a combination of genetics that will bring the most value. We have to figure out which cattle are more efficient,” Dorn says. “The perfect carcass in the market place is a yield grade 1, Prime that weighs 999 pounds. The question is: Was he efficient to get there? Higher marbling cattle, typically, are less efficient. Efficient cattle in the feedyard will also be efficient cattle at the ranch. Do we want to be old school and sit at the coffee shop bragging about our cattle or do we want to make money? Once technology catches up, we can make accurate decisions and find combinations that work.”

“It’s no easy task to put together the right genetic profile that is profitable, but we cannot afford to give up heterosis.

There is no doubt, in my mind, it will take multiple breeds,” Field says. “The industry would be well served to take an aggressive stance, rather than a passive one, for feed efficiency. It is a tremendous challenge to find balanced solutions for profitability and it will take a concentrated effort.” 

salereports indian nation fall brangus sale Date: November 1, 2008 Location: Okmulgee Stockyards, Okmulgee, OK Auctioneer: Doak Lambert Sales Manager: Oklahoma Brangus Association & Okmulgee Stockyards 38 Registered Bulls Grossed $49,050 (Average $1290) 38 Registered Females Grossed $49,000 (Average $1290) Number of Pairs and 3N1s: 10; Grossed $15,900 (Average $1590) Number of Bred Heifers: 18; Grossed $23,400 (Average $1300) Number of Open Heifers: 10; Grossed: $9700 (Average $970) HIGH SELLING LOTS (76 Total Lots Sold) High Selling Bull Lot 17 - JG Mr. Saturn Pounds, sired by CPPR Saturn 854 and consigned by Gorczyca and Son Brangus sold to John McPhetridge, Stuart, Oklahoma for $3000.

Other High Selling Bulls Lot 18 - JG Mr. Saturn Performance, sired by CPPR Saturn 854 and consigned by Gorczyca and Son Brangus also sold for $2600 to John McPhetridge, Stuart, Oklahoma.

Lot 37 — WBF Nimitz 675T sired by Nimitz of Brinks 75L12. 675T was consigned by Wheat Belt Farms and sold to My Brangus, Earl Mynatt, Oologah, Oklahoma for $2500.

High Selling Females Pairs & 3n1s Lot 42 - MS GH 881R, sired by Suhn's Target 416M7 and consigned by 5K Ranch sold to Brad Church, Kiowa, Oklahoma for $1900. Lot 49 - P-P Ms Revolution 447EL, sired by BMB Diamond Revolution was consigned

by TMAC Farms and sold to Morgan Turpin, Stuart, Oklahoma for $1800Âť Bred Heifers Lots 54, 55, and 57 - all sired by Grant of Brinks 607N17.

The three heifers were consigned by DJM Farms and all sold to Morgan Turpin, Stuart, Oklahoma for $1500 each.

Open Heifers Lot 81 - LCR Ms Lucky T 7757, sired by PR News Man 698N2, consigned by LastChance Ranch sold to Robert Ragsdale, Sparks, Oklahoma for $1150.

Lots 70 & 72, sired by Mr Tallman 270 and Richards Duke 1G, both consigned by EZR Farms, both sold to Billy Wiginton, Broken Arrow, Oklahoma for $1150.

VOLUME BUYERS Volume Bull Buyers: Michael Nelson (Coalgate, OK) and John McPhetridge (Stuart, OK) Volume Female Buyers: Morgan Turpin (Stuart, OK) and Robert Ragsdale (Sparks, OK) Number of Buyers: 30 Number of States Sold to: 3

New Beginning Proven Genetics at Camp Cooley A full house was on hand for "The New Beginning Brangus Female Sale" on Thursday November 13th, and the "New Beginning Bull Sale" on November 14th and 15th. The female sale represented the dispersal of the remaining females from the legendary Camp Cooley Brangus cow herd. Daughters of the great breed matrons were offered and customers were provided with the opportunity to build their own programs based on the freshest, cutting-edge genetics available in the Brangus breed. Bull buyers found the offering to their liking and compliments on uniformity and thickness were abundant.

Buyers took home 576 bulls at a rapid pace and a torrid average of $3,382 making this, again, one of the industry's premier events.

The sale also marked the launch of Camp Cooley Genetics, a premier seedstock provider and a unique service company focusing on assisting its partners with breeding, managing, and marketing their cattle. Camp Cooley Genetics will combine the expertise of Camp Cooley Ranch, Ultimate Genetics,

60 | JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2009

Brangus Journal

and Camp Cooley Beef into one customer-service driven entity.

Two hundred seventy-nine powerful Brangus female lots grossed $766,000 for an average $2,765. The sale was paced with the $20,000 purchase of Ms. Brinks Bright Side 302L6, Lot 167, by Southern Cattle Company of Marianna, PL. She is a full sister to the $44,000 Newt and to the $50,000 302L9, and out of the #1 revenue earning cow at Camp Cooley Ranch, 302H6, who has lifetime earnings in excess of $367,000.

The second high selling female was Lot 145, Ms Brinks Ali 30P26, who fetched a bid price of $17,500 from RRR Ranch of Claxton, GA. She is the dam of the Friday bull sale feature, Patton of Brinks 30T22, as one-half interest sold for $25,000. She sold safe to Ike of Brinks 504P31.

RRR Ranch also took home the third high selling female as they paid $11,500 to own Ms Brinks Angelo 541 P38. She was a heavy bred fall cow and recorded a well balanced set of EPDs

to match her powerful phenotype and is a paternal sister to the dam of the great Robertson bull.

RRR Ranch again stepped up to own Ms Brinks Cole 803U9, a spring born weaned heifer, for $10,500, She is an outstanding daughter of the $50,000, 803M donor cow. She was the high selling open heifer. Her full sister, another high performing Cole daughter out of 803M, scored the winning bid of $9,500 as 101 Ranch, of Strawn, TX took her home.

Also selling for $9,500 was Ms Brinks Unitas 361 U7, a weaned spring heifer calf sired by Unitas of Brinks 361 R6, that sold to 101 Ranch and Ms Brinks CEO 302S9. a daughter of the $50,000 donor, 302L9 who sold to Southern Cattle Co. One-half interest and no possession of Ms Brinks Geronimo 535K14, sold to Southern Cattle Co. for $9,000. This brought her auction-based value to $58,000. Double W Ranch owns the other half of this great donor.

2 ½ interest Open Donor Cows averaged 13 Bred Heifers averaged 25 Yearling Heifers averaged 34 Fall Bred Cows averaged 39 Spring Bred Cows averaged 11 Open Cows averaged 19 Spring Pairs averaged 59 Spring Weaned Heifers averaged

Scipio of Brinks 99T29 was another crowd favorite and became the third high selling Csonka son when 101 Ranch of Strawn, TX paid $20,000 to own him. He is the #3 ranking REA EPD non-parent in the Brangus breed.

Santa Rosa Ranch, of Navasota, TX purchased Omar of Brinks 193T2 for $18,000. This Brinks Brightside 607L11 son was out of a first calf heifer and is ultra correct in his structure and pleasing in his profile.

In summary: 5 Brangus Proven Herd Sires averaged 236 Spring Brangus Bulls averaged 112 Fall Brangus Bulls averaged 353 Brangus Bulls averaged 576 Bulls averaged

$13,600 $3,714 $3,099 $3,659 $3,382

$6,125 $2,153 $2,294 $2,400 $3,291 $1,345 $3,937 $2,765

The tone was set early on Friday as the Brangus herd sire prospects started the sale.

One-half interest of LTD of Brinks 415T28 sold for $50,000. This powerful Csonka son combined phenotype and numbers as no other. Cavender Ranch, Bullard, TX made the purchase of this exciting spring coming two-year-old bull to add to their quality herd bull battery.

Lambert of Brinks 317R3, a proven herd sire, added to the excitement as half-interest in the #3 ranked Brangus trait leader for IMF and proven calving ease leader sold for $46,000. This Lead Gun son, out of the feed efficiency king, Good Fortune, on the bottom of the pedigree, went to two stalwart programs in the Angus breed when Three Trees Ranch, of Sharpsburg, GA and Southern Cattle Co., of Marianna, FL teamed up to own him.

Cavender Ranch and Southern Cattle Co. partnered to own the third high selling bull when they paid $25,000 for one-half interest in Patton of Brinks 30T22. Patton is another son of Csonka of Brinks and records powerful growth numbers in a moderate package. His dam, the day before, sold for $17,500 to RRR Ranch of Claxton, GA.

Brangus Journal

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2009 | 61

Josh Reynolds (right) with Mike Coggins (left) after purchasing the high-selling bull 889T50 at the Blackwater Cattle Co. and Mound Creek Genetic Alliance Bull Sale on November 8, 2008.

62 | JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2009

Brangus Journal

BRANGUS PUBLICATIONS, INC. BOARD OF DIRECTORS MONDAY NOVEMBER 3, 2008 TELEPHONE CONFERENCE CALL Dale Kirkham, Chairman PRESENT Don Cox Dale Kirkham Dr. Robert Vineyard Lynn White

ABSENT

Dale Kirkham called for a motion to accept the minutes of the BPI Board of Directors meeting held during the Brangus Summit on August 7, 2008.

Don Cox motioned to accept the minutes of the BPI Board of Directors meeting held August 7, 2008.

Second by Dr. Robert Vineyard.

Motion passed unanimously.

The next item on the agenda was the presentation of the proposed 2009 BPI budget by Dr. Massey. Dr. Massey began the discussion by reviewing the proposed production schedule. The production schedule outlined 4 commercial editions with an approximate circulation of 20,000 comprised of IBBA members, Brangus Journal subscribers, Brangus bull buyers, and the use of a purchased list. The proposed name of the commercial publication is Frontline Beef Producer. The production schedule also allows for 6 issues of the Brangus Journal with an approximate circulation of 2,000 made up of IBBA members and subscribers. Dr. Massey pointed out that due to the increased circulations, the proposed advertising rates were increased to arrive at the proposed budget.

Dr. Massey then went through the proposed budget revenue items. Dr. Massey explained that the state directory and service ads are annual commitments and are budgeted based on renewal dates. The other advertising income is based on some historical data considering the number of ads placed each month, calculated using the new proposed ad rates. The total revenue budgeted for the year is $371,935. This amount takes into consideration actual income generated YTD of $118,000; annualized income for BPI based on actual income YTD for 2008 is $354,000.

For expenses, Dr. Massey explained that printing expenses were derived using the revenue assumptions; i.e., number of pages for printing, circulation and related postage costs. Employee compensation is based on actual expenditures for current staff. Utilities, telephone, and property tax are 1/3 of IBBA actual expenses. A copy of the proposed budget is attached to these minutes.

STAFF Dr. Joseph Massey Frances Miller

GUESTS

Don Cox motioned to offer a service to our membership for an amount between $50 and $100 per year, to immediately eblast subscribers with every inquiry that comes into the office.

Second by Lynn White.

Motion passed unanimously.

Dale Kirkham then called for any new business. Don Cox expressed a concern with how to better communicate with our members. He stated that the IBBA and BPI are promoting the breed using the Frontline Beef Producer to reach many more buyers than ever before, and the importance of telling our members. Dr. Massey agreed for the need to disseminate the 2009 production schedule for the Frontline Beef Producer and the Brangus Journal, via email and publishing in the Brangus Journal. Dr. Massey also stated a desire to publish approved minutes and budgets for total disclosure.

Dr. Vineyard motioned that when the minutes and budget are approved by the IBBA Board of Directors, both documents are published in the Brangus Journal and posted to the website.

Second by Don Cox. Motion passed unanimously.

Dr. Massey then discussed the idea of an online auction for advertisers to secure premium placement in the Frontline Beef Producer. Premium placement consists of inside front and back cover, back cover, page 1 and the last page of the Frontline Beef Producer.

Lynn White motioned to hold an online auction for the premium placement advertising in the Frontline Beef Producer.

Second by Don Cox. Motion passed unanimously.

Don Cox asked if it is appropriate to feature volume buyers in an article for the Brangus Journal. Dale Kirkham stated that his recollection on the policy regarding feature stories on members was that the article could not run within two months of the member’s production sale.

Dr. Robert Vineyard motioned to accept the proposed 2009 BPI budget.

Second by Lynn White.

Motion passed unanimously.

Dr. Massey motioned that the Brangus Journal be able to publish feature stories on members.

Second by Dr. Vineyard.

Motion passes unanimously.

Dale Kirkham then called for old business. Don Cox suggested that BPI start a subscription list for interested members; those subscribers would receive an email regarding inquiries that come into the office. This would allow members equal and fair access to contact potential customers and also generate income for BPI. Don Cox suggested a $100 annual fee for this service. Lynn White stated that this service should be presented to the IBBA Board of Directors for approval and that board should decide which entity, BPI or IBBA, would benefit financially from this service.

Dale Kirkham called for a motion to adjourn.

Dr. Vineyard motioned to adjourn.

Motion passed unanimously.

Respectfully submitted, Frances Miller These minutes have been read and approved by: Dale Kirkham, Chairman

Brangus Journal

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2009 | 63

2009Spring Sire Summary INTERNATIONAL BRANGUS BREEDERS ASSOCIATION

The purpose of the 2009 Spring Sire Summary is to provide breeders with a reference guide to the genetic value of both the most widely used and new young active sires in the breed for the traits evaluated. This sire summary is helpful in identifying potential herd sires with EPD profiles appropriate for the herd in which they will be used. While this summary includes the most up to date information available at the time of printing, the IBBA website, www.GoBrangus.com, should always be consulted for the latest EPD information before making any final herd sire selection decision.

Why EPD? After more than 20 years of Expected Progeny Difference (EPD) technology many producers, commercial and purebred, still resist incorporating the technology into their selection process. These producers cite several different reasons for their hesitancy, but research continues to prove the efficacy and relevance of using EPD to cause genetic change.

A bull can only pass his genes to his offspring. His actual birth weight does not pass to his calves, nor does his actual yearling weight, nor any other measurement that can be conceived. All that can pass from the bull to his calves are the genes that affect those measurements. It sounds like splitting hairs, but consider two

64 | JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2009

Brangus Journal

identical twin bull calves. Assume they are weaned off the cow at exactly the same weight, but one is sent to a feedlot and the other to grass. The rate of gain between the two twins will be very different, but the genes affecting postweaning gain that they each can pass to their offspring are exactly the same. On average you would not be able to distinguish which calves were sired by the twin with the high, feedlot gain from the calves sired by the other twin.

Now, take it one step further. We wean two unrelated bull calves on the same day at exactly the same weight. One goes to the feedlot, the other to grass. At one year of age, it is likely that the bull in the feedlot will weigh considerably more than the bull that is on grass, but there is no way to determine which bull has genes that are more favorable for high growth. That is, no way except to randomly breed the two bulls to a large group of cows and see how their calves compare—on average.

The EPD is simply a prediction of this average expected progeny difference. The EPD takes into account all the usable performance information in the animal’s pedigree, the animal’s own usable performance information, and the usable performance information of any progeny to develop a prediction of the genetic value for a particular trait of the animal that is transmittable to the offspring. Usable performance information comes from measures collected on a valid contemporary group, more than one animal of the same sex and the same age group that have been managed together. For each sire in this summary we have included a count of the number of herds contributing usable progeny information, the total number of usable progeny records for the sire, and the total number daughters that have contributed a usable progeny record.

Because information from all sources is used in the calculation, EPD is the most reliable predictor of an animal’s true genetic merit for any given trait.

Does this mean that we can predict the yearling weight of a calf from his sire’s EPD? Absolutely not; EPD cannot predict actual performance. Actual performance is the result of the genetics of the sire, the genetics of the dam, and

everything in the environment affecting the trait (eg, feeding program, illness, weather). However, yearling weight (YW) EPD does predict the average difference in YW that is due to the genetic differences in two bulls, if all other factors affecting actual YW are equal.

This is true for every trait for which there is an EPD. EPD is an effective tool for producing better cattle, but EPD alone will not produce better cattle. In fact the use of EPD alone for selection can actually create negative progress in other traits, because there are a multitude of important traits for which there are no EPD values. Visual appraisal, performance ratios, and common sense still are necessary to produce true multi-trait genetic improvement for efficient beef production. But, trying to make economically based genetic improvement without the aid of EPD is like traveling in an unknown country without a map. You may eventually still get where you want to go, but wrong turns and false starts will slow your progress.

Accuracy and Possible Change Values An EPD is a prediction, an estimate based on the available performance information on the individual, his relatives, and, most importantly, his progeny. An animal’s true genetic value for any particular trait can never be known for certain, but the more usable information we have, the more accurate the estimate. Each EPD has a corresponding accuracy value (ACC) associated with it. These values range from 0.01 to 0.99 with a higher ACC indicating that more information was available on which to base the prediction. Young bulls with no progeny will have relatively low ACC, while widely used AI sires with many progeny will have much higher ACC. Basically, ACC provides a measure of confidence of the likelihood that the predicted EPD value is in agreement with the true genetic value for the particular trait.

Possible change value (PC) is considered by many to be a more practical method of describing ACC. PC is calculated directly from ACC and provides a measure, in the same units as the EPD, of the margin of error associated with the prediction. For example, a YW EPD of +50 with a PC of 10 means that it is most likely that the real genetic value for YW lies somewhere between +40 and +60.

Both ACC and PC provide a measure of risk that the actual results may not agree with the predicted value. All things being equal, the proven, high-accuracy sire is always the safer choice. A good rule of thumb is to always use sires with the correct EPD profile for your situation, but let the ACC (or PC) determine how extensively to use each sire.

Percentile Rank Since EPD values are meant to be used for comparing animals, it is also useful to have some idea of how an animal’s EPD values stack up against the rest of the breed. On the IBBA website and in this sire summary a Percentile Rank (Rank) is included for every EPD. The Rank value tells us how the EPD of the individual animal stacks up against the same EPD for all other animals in the breed. For instance, a Rank of 10 for YW EPD means that the animal is in the top 10% of the breed for growth genetic potential as measured by YW EPD. On the other hand a Rank of 10 for birth weight (BW) EPD means that the animal is in the top 10% of the breed for low BW EPD, because a lower BW EPD is in most cases considered to be more favorable than a higher BW EPD. Although EPD values are not available for every trait of economic importance, a basic understanding of the application of EPD tech-

Brangus Journal

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2009 | 65

Across-Breed EPD and Multi-Breed EPD Although this IBBA evaluation is a single breed evaluation, a brief discussion of current and future methods of comparing animals across breeds is appropriate. Every thing changes and it is important to interpret the current with an eye toward the future when possible.

Because (typically) EPD are developed for each breed using only that breed’s performance information, as published by each breed association, EPD are only useful for comparing bulls within breed. Direct comparison of bulls of different breeds is not possible with conventional EPD technology, because most breed associations compute their EPDs in separate analyses and each breed has a different base point (where the average EPD = 0). However, a table of adjustment factors to be used to estimate across-breed EPD (AB-EPD) for 16 breeds has been developed to allow for the direct comparison of EPD traits across breeds (Figure 1 shows this table adjusted to a Brangus base). Bulls of different breeds can be compared on the same EPD scale by adding the appropriate adjustment factor to the expected progeny differences (EPDs) produced in the most recent genetic evaluations for each of the 16 breeds. This table is updated annually and the adjustment factors reflect both the current breed difference (for animals born in 2005) and differences in the breed base point.

As an example, suppose a Simmental bull has a WW EPD of + 25 and a Gelbvieh bull has a WW EPD of + 45. The across-breed adjustment factors for WW (see table) are +0.1 for Simmental and -17.3 lb for Gelbvieh. The AB-EPD is 25 + 0.1 = 25.1 for the Simmental bull and 45 + (-17.3) = 27.7 for the Gelbvieh bull. The expected weaning weight difference when both are mated to similar cows of another breed (e.g., Angus) would be 25.1 - 27.7 = -2.6, only a slight advantage to the Simmental bull. The AB-EPDs are most useful to commercial producers purchasing bulls of more than one breed to use in crossbreeding programs. Uniformity from one generation to the next can be improved by selecting bulls with similar AB-EPD. Selection for uniformity is especially important in rotational cross-breeding systems

nology, including ACC, PC and Rank, is critical to correctly applying the technology to make the best possible breeding decisions.

Listing Criteria This summary has been limited to the most relevant active sires for comparison. Only sires that have a calf recorded since July 1, 2007, have carcass ultrasound EPD values, and have a DNA profile on file were included in this list. The Proven Sire list is limited to sires with a minimum ACC for weaning weight (WW) of 0.60. Sires with ACC of 0.40 to 0.59 appear on the Genetic Venture Sire list. The IBBA website, www.GoBrangus.com, should be consulted for a more detailed search of potential sires.

Summit Sires Sires having sired five or more Summit Cows are designated as Summit Sires in this summary. Summit cows are those cows which initially calved at 30 months of age or younger; have recorded a calf born in the last two years since; have maintained a calving interval of 380 days or less; and have weaned at least 3 calves sired by a registered Brangus bull with an average weaning weight ratio on all weaned calves of 105 or higher. The Summit designation is not easy to obtain and is meant to recognize the most productive animals in the breed.

Generations Because Brangus is a synthetic or composite breed developed through the systematic crossing of two diverse breeds, variation can be a concern. The number of purebred Brangus generations (Gen) in the pedigree of each sire in this summary is provided as a reference.

More purebred generations may indicate a reduced risk of extreme variability in the purebred offspring, while fewer purebred generations indicate that there will be greater expression of hybrid vigor in the purebred offspring.

Across-Breed EPD Adjustment Factors (Using Brangus as the Base) Birth Weight

Weaning Weight

Yearling Weight

Maternal Milk

0

0

0

0

Angus

5.8

27.4

28.8

-3.9

Hereford

3.1

30.3

41.6

11.4

Breed Brangus

Red Angus

3

32.69

27.9

0

Shorthorn

-0.7

-3.6

-15.3

-22

South Devon

2.5

23.8

34.5

1.7

Brahman

-6.7

-10.6

26.3

-31.4

Limousin

1.8

31.2

56.6

8 -17.8

Simmental

0.4

4.1

11.9

Charolais

-3.8

-11.6

-18.5

-6.8

Gelbvieh

1.4

22.4

51.2

-10.9

Maine Anjou

-1.2

31

60.4

2.1

Salers

1.6

-2.9

-14.6

-17

Tarentaise

2.8

-4.1

10.6

-24.4

Braunveih

-0.4

-2

11

-29.2

Beefmaster

-3.4

-17.7

-16.3

-1.8

66 | JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2009

Brangus Journal

for traits such as birth weight to manage calving difficulty and for traits related to cow size and milk production to effectively manage feed requirements in cow herds. In terminal cross-breeding systems, AB-EPD for growth traits can be used to identify bulls across breeds whose progeny should have the highest growth potential. Birth weight AB-EPD are useful for selecting bulls for use on first calf heifers to decrease the likelihood of dystocia.

The adjustment factors in the table were updated using EPDs from the most recent national cattle evaluations conducted by each of the 16 breed associations. The breed differences used to calculate the factors are based on comparisons of progeny of sires from each of these breeds at the US Meat Animal Research Center (USMARC) in Clay Center, Nebraska. These analyses were conducted by USMARC geneticists Larry Kuehn and Mark Thallman with the assistance of Dale Van Vleck and Larry Cundiff.

On the IBBA website, www.GoBrangus.com, you can find for each animal a chart comparing the EPD of that animal to the other breeds in the AB-EPD chart.

The major limitations to having truly accurate across-breed comparisons based on AB-EPD is that the factors are based on the separate analysis of each breed and the exclusion of hybrid animal per-

formance in each analysis. Including all animals, regardless of breed makeup, into one genetic evaluation would resolve these issues.

The technology for just such an analysis has existed on a limited scale for some time, but new models are in development that will likely make Multi-Breed EPD (MB-EPD) the standard in a few short years.

MB-EPD analysis provides an evaluation of the genetic merit of animals of different breeds and combinations of breeds and puts the EPD of all included breeds on the same base. The MB-EPD analysis accounts for breed effects and the effects of heterosis (or hybrid vigor) allowing a more accurate prediction of the true genetic merit of purebred and hybrid animals in the database.

MB-EPD will allow all cattle to be evaluated on an even playing field with all other cattle. This allows the commercial cattleman, the primary customer of all seedstock producers, to select the best cattle for his operation. This is important to IBBA breeders and the cattle industry. If you believe your cattle perform and add value from birth to "beef on the plate," the surest way to keep them a sought after solution is to get them fairly evaluated against other breeds and hybrids.

Beef cattle selection should be based on the best possible science, not based on promotion and hype.

EPD Descriptions BW

Birth weight – A sire’s expected progeny difference (lb) for mature dam equivalent birth weight of calf. Progeny of sires with lower BW EPD values will generally be born with less calving difficulty.

WW

Weaning weight – A sire’s expected progeny difference (lb) for 205-day, mature dam equivalent WW. A sire’s WW EPD is an indication of growth to weaning. WW EPD does not indicate milk production.

YW

Yearling weight – A sire’s expected progeny difference (lb) for 365-day, mature dam equivalent YW. The YW EPD is an indication of the progeny’s post weaning gain performance. YW EPD is calculated by combining WW and post weaning gain performance to predict expected differences in weight performance at one year of age.

MK

Milk – A prediction of the maternal genetic component of weaning weight, MK EPD does not directly indicate more or less milk production. The MK EPD is the expected difference (lb), due to maternal performance (which includes milk production) in the weaning weight of calves out of a bull’s daughters compared to calves from daughters of a bull with a zero MK EPD. A higher EPD indicates that the bull’s daughters should produce more pounds of calf due to increased maternal performance, but a higher MK EPD may also indicate a need for higher nutritional inputs to support increased milk production.

TM

Total Maternal – The expected overall difference (lb) in weaning weight of calves out of a bull’s daughters compared to calves from daughters of a bull with a zero maternal weaning EPD. The maternal weaning EPD is a measure of the genetic component of both growth and maternal ability. It is calculated by adding one-half the WW EPD to the MK EPD, and as a result, TM EPD is the only EPD for which there is no corresponding ACC.

SC

Scrotal circumference – Measured in centimeters, SC has been shown to have a strong influence on male fertility, however selection for extremes in scrotal size is not an effective method of affecting change in the trait, as it is subject to extreme environmental variation.

While larger actual scrotal circumference is important in terms of how the bull can be expected to perform his duties of servicing cows, only SC EPD predicts the genetic value of the bull for SC that can be transmitted to his calves. Additionally, heifers sired by bulls with high SC EPD have been shown to reach puberty at significantly earlier ages than do daughters of bulls with low SC EPD.

REA

Ribeye area – REA EPD is a predictor of the muscularity of an animal’s offspring in square inches. The REA EPD presented in this summary is for ultrasound REA as opposed to carcass REA. While there is a high correlation between ultrasound REA and carcass REA, they are not the same trait. Genetic progress for improved muscling is not direct using REA EPD from ultrasound, but still much improved over using actual ultrasound REA measures.

IMF

Percent intramuscular fat – IMF EPD is presented in units of percent fat as determined by ultrasound. While IMF from ultrasound has a strong positive relationship to carcass marbling scores, they are not the same trait. Genetic progress for improved marbling is not direct using IMF EPD, but still much improved over using actual ultrasound IMF measures.

Brangus Journal

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2009 | 67

68 | JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2009

Brangus Journal

Brangus Journal

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2009 | 69

70 | JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2009

Brangus Journal

Brangus Journal

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2009 | 71

72 | JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2009

Brangus Journal

Brangus Journal

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2009 | 73

74 | JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2009

Brangus Journal

Brangus Journal

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2009 | 75

76 | JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2009

Brangus Journal

Brangus Journal

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2009 | 77

78 | JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2009

Brangus Journal

Brangus Journal

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2009 | 79

80 | JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2009

Brangus Journal

Brangus Journal

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2009 | 81

82 | JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2009

Brangus Journal

ALABAMA

ARIZONA

To place your ad in the State Directory, please call the BPI Office at 210.696.8231

To place your ad in the State Directory, please call the BPI Office at 210.696.8231

ARIZONA To place your ad in the State Directory, please call the BPI Office at 210.696.8231

Brangus Journal

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2009 | 83

CALIFORNIA To place your ad in the State Directory, please call the BPI Office at 210.696.8231

GEORGIA To place your ad in the State Directory, please call the BPI Office at 210.696.8231

FLORIDA To place your ad in the State Directory, please call the BPI Office at 210.696.8231

KANSAS To place your ad in the State Directory, please call the BPI Office at 210.696.8231

84 | JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2009

Brangus Journal

MISSOURI

OKLAHOMA

To place your ad in the State Directory, please call the BPI Office at 210.696.8231

To place your ad in the State Directory, please call the BPI Office at 210.696.8231

MISSISSIPPI

NEW MEXICO

To place your ad in the State Directory, please call the BPI Office at 210.696.8231

To place your ad in the State Directory, please call the BPI Office at 210.696.8231

NORTH CAROLINA To place your ad in the State Directory, please call the BPI Office at 210.696.8231

Brangus Journal

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2009 | 85

TENNESSEE To place your ad in the State Directory, please call the BPI Office at 210.696.8231

TEXAS To place your ad in the State Directory, please call the BPI Office at 210.696.8231

86 | JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2009

Brangus Journal

Brangus Journal

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2009 | 87

88 | JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2009

Brangus Journal

To place your ad in the State Directory, please call the BPI Office at 210.696.8231

Brangus Journal

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2009 | 89

SERVICES To place , please call the IBBA Office at 210.696.8231, or email brangusjournal@int-brangus.org

Lakin Oakley Auctioneer

7081 Highway 82 West DeKalb, Texas 75559 903/667-3251 Home 903/277-9610 Mobile

Tommy Barnes - Auctioneer -

P.O. Box 8 • Galion, AL 36742 email: barnes@westal.net

Ph. 334/289-7001 Fax: 334/289-7000 Mobile: 334/462-4004

Embryo Transfer • Estrus Synchronization Programs Complete Reproductive Services • InVitro Fertilization Toll Free: 866-4EMBRYO P.O. Box 3038 • Bryan, TX 77805 979/731-1043 • Fax: 979/731-1086 info@ovagenix.com www.ovagenix.com To place a Service Advertisement, please call the IBBA Office at 210.686.8231, or email brangusjournal@int-brangus.org

Bruns Sales Company

Sales Consulting • Private Treaty Sales • Sales Management • Herd Consultations

Gary and Gwen Bruns

P.O. Box 404 • Floresville, TX 78114 (830) 393-6079 • (830) 391-0766 Cell • (830) 393-1133 Fax brunssales@felpsis.net

90 | JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2009

Brangus Journal

Authorized Dealer

Registered Brangus Cattle and Certified A.I. Services Terry and Sheri Williams 11618 Walnut Cemetary Road Bremond, Texas 76629 email: tbars@tconline.net

Home: 254-746-7097 Barn: 254-746-7804 Cell: 979-676-1446 Web Site: www.tbarsbrangus.com

CALENDEROFEVENTS DECEMBER • 2008 13

Alabama Brangus Bull Sale, Letohatchee, Alabama

JANUARY • 2009 10

Lake City Brangus Bull Sale, Lake City, Florida

24

Fort Worth Junior Brangus Show, Fort Worth, Texas

24

TBBA Texas Source Bull Sale, Sealy, Texas

FEBRUARY • 2009 7

Best in the West Registered Brangus Bull and Replacement Heifer Sale, Marana, AZ

8

San Antonio Livestock Show & Rodeo, International Red Brangus Show, San Antonio, TX

12

San Antonio Livestock Show & Rodeo, Junior Brangus Show, San Antonio, TX

13

San Antonio Livestock Show & Rodeo, Junior Red Brangus Show, San Antonio, TX

22

San Angelo Stock Show & Rodeo, Junior Brangus Show, San Angelo, TX

28

Spitzer Ranch Performance Tested Brangus Bull Sale, Calhoun, GA

MARCH • 2009

Ernest J. Bailes, IV •In-Clinic Facilities & Mobile Lab •AI, ET and Semen Collection •Breeding & Herd Health Supplies •AI / Palpation Clinics

1020 Bailes Dairy Road Shepherd, TX 77371

936-628-6280 www.reproselect.com

4-7

International Brangus Breeders Association Annual Convention, Houston, TX

7

International Brangus Show, Houston, Texas

7

The Genetic Edge XIV Sale, Houston, Texas

8

Global Brangus Roundup, George Ranch Historical Park, Richmond, Texas

14

Indian Nation Spring Brangus Sale, Ada, OK

20-22

Miami International Agriculture & Cattle Show, Miami, FL

22

Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo, Junior Brangus Show, Houston, TX

24

Suhn Cattle Company Brangus Bull Sale, Eureka, KS

28

West Texas Brangus Breeders Association, "Springtime Sale," Abilene, TX

APRIL • 2009 3

Commercial Brangus Female Sale, Perry, GA

4

Southeast Brangus Breeders Sale, Andalusia, AL

4

Camp Cooley Ranch Customer Appreciation Sale, Franklin, TX

17-18

Texas Brangus Breeders Association Convention, Brenham, TX

18

DJM Farms Brangus Bull Sale, Byars, OK

18

Texas Junior Spring Show, Brenham, TX

18

Texas Brangus Breeders Spring Sale, Brenham, TX

25

Annual New Mexico State University Bull & Horse Sale, Las Cruces, NM

26

Doguet's Diamond D Ranch Field Day & Black Diamonds Show Heifer Sale, Poteet, TX

MAY • 2009 2

JLS Winning Tradition VII Sale, Devine, TX

9

Stars & Stripes Sale, Raymond, MO

Brangus Journal

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2009 | 91

BRANGUS J

O

U

R

N

A

L

MISSION STATEMENT

T

2009 Media Guide

he Brangus Journal is an international news magazine serving the Brangus breed of beef cattle including Brangus crossbreds and Brahman and Angus stock necessary to produce Brangus cattle.

The International Brangus Breeders Association (IBBA) empowers members to advance the quality, reliability and value of Brangus and Brangus-influenced cattle; provides innovative programs and services which enhance the economic well-being of members and commercial customers.

Brangus Journal Advertising Rates (b&w) 1x

6x

Full Page

$580.00

$485.00

2/3 Page

$460.00

$382.50

1/2 Page Island

$395.00

$335.00

1/2 Page

$370.00

$300.00

1/3 Page

$275.00

$225.00

1/4 Page

$210.00

$175.00

*State Directory

-

$350.00

1-inch Service Ad

$22.50

-

Display Column Inch

$26.00

-

Color Rates Single color-$170.00; Four-color-$340.00 Inserts, Business Reply Cards & Other Specialty Advertisements Available. Contact advertising sales coordinator for quote.

2009 Editorial Calendar: Brangus Journal

Issue

Focus

Circulation

Ad Materials Due Date

March/April Mails April 1

Summit Cow Issue Covers the height of the Spring production sale season.

2000 IBBA Members

March 10, 2009

May/June Mails June 1

International & Convention Highlights Bilingual edition covering Brangus events and issues across the globe.

2000 IBBA Members + 3000 International Brangus Breeders

May 10, 2009

July/August Mails Aug 1

Fall Sire Summary Issue Decision making time for Fall AI breeding programs.

2000 IBBA Members

July 10, 2009

September/October Mails Oct 1

Spotlight on Juniors & IBBA Summit Results of the Junior National Show and IJBBA events throughout the year.

2000 IBBA Members

September 10, 2009

November/December Mails Dec 1

International & Year in Review Bilingual edition covering Brangus events and issues across the globe.

2000 IBBA Members + 3000 International Brangus Breeders

November 10, 2009

FRONTLINE

A

beef producer

true source of news and discussion of relevant and timely topics for US commercial beef producers.

Published four times a year with a circulation of 20,000; additional copies distributed at trade shows and producer events.

FRONTLINE Beef Producer Advertising Rates (all black & white) 1x

4x

Full Page

$1650.00

$1250.00

2/3 Page

$1250.00

$950.00

1/2 Page

$900.00

$675.00

1/3 Page

$637.50

$475.00

1/4 Page

$450.00

$350.00

1/8 Page

$337.50

$250.00

Inserts, Business Reply Cards & Other Specialty Advertisements Available. Contact advertising sales coordinator for quote.

2009 Editorial Calendar: FRONTLINE Beef Producer

Issue

Focus

Circulation

Ad Materials Due Date

March/April Mails March 15

Herd Health & Grazing Management From Blackleg to BSE there are countless unseen challenges to profitability for commercial beef producers. All health threats are real, some are prevalent, some are probable and all have economic implications whether you choose prevention or treatment. This issue evaluates some of the more talked-about pathogens under an economic microscope.

Every state, every county, every ranch, even every pasture has its own unique strengths and weaknesses in terms of forage production. A grazing practice that works well in one environment may be exactly the wrong thing to do in another, however, the basic premise of proper grazing management does not change. This issue explores universal as well as unique techniques and practices that can be employed to find optimum levels of sustainable forage production.

2000 IBBA Members 5500 IBBA Bull Buyers 12,500 Commercial ­Producers

February 20, 2009

September/October Mails Sep 15

Feeder Calf Marketing & Bull Power Payday comes but once a year for most commercial producers; there are no do-overs on a calf crop. Making the most of that payday begins long before the calf is born, but even the best genetics and best management programs can leave money on the table without a well planned marketing strategy. This issue reveals the potential opportunities and potential pitfalls of marketing feeder calves.

One of the most important assets of a profitable cow-calf enterprise is the Commercial Bull. This issue explores the opportunities for making the most of bull purchases. From identifying the correct genetics, to maintaining the package those genetics come in, to prepping the bull properly to ensure the delivery of those genetics all breeding season long.

2000 IBBA Members 5500 IBBA Bull Buyers 12,500 Commercial ­Producers

August 20, 2009

November/December Mails Nov 15

Cow Efficiency & Industry Trends What makes a good cow? For the commercial producer it is pretty simple; she’s got to generate a return every year. The difference between good cows and great cows is the magnitude of that return. What can be done to identify and multiply those great cows? Is it all genetics? What’s the impact of management? This issue searches for those answers and more.

What in the world is going on here? The economy, industry regulations, animal activist activities, export markets; what does it all mean to the average cow-calf producer? Are there new obstacles and/or opportunities on the horizon? This issue examines the industry outlook for 2010 and beyond.

2000 IBBA Members 5500 IBBA Bull Buyers 12,500 Commercial ­Producers

October 20, 2009

Ad Sizes & Specifications

MECHANICAL REQUIREMENTS

For more information, please contact:

• Trim Page Size: 8.5 x 11 • Before Trim Size: 8.75 x 11.25”

Journal Advertising Coordinator: Sara Calhoun Phone: (210) 696-8231 Mobile: (210) 861.7272 Fax: (210) 696-8718 Email: sara_calhoun@int-brangus.org

All color images should be submitted in CMYK mode, 300 dpi resolution.

All greyscale images should be submitted at 600dpi resolution.

All bitmap images should be submitted at 1200 dpi resolution.

Paper: 50 lb.

Binding: Saddle Stitch/Perfect Bound. All spreads should be prepared for split pages • We can accept material on CD/DVD-ROM disks.

Ship to: Brangus Journal Duncan MacRae PO Box 69020, San Antonio TX 78269-6020 Phone: (210) 696-8231; Fax: (210) 696-8718 E-mail: duncan_macrae@int-brangus.org

Director of Communications: Duncan MacRae Phone: (210) 696-8231 Fax: (210) 696-8718 Email: duncan_macrae@int-brangus.org POLICIES Issues mailed on or prior to first of month of issue date. Advertising arriving in the Brangus Journal office after the stated deadlines may be subject to a late fee. Advertising for sales and events scheduled prior to the 20th of the month of publication will be accepted at the advertiser’s risk. Brangus Journal assumes no financial responsibility for distribution to its entire circulation prior to that date.

Alterations in advertising copy, if requested after the closing date and after a reasonable number of ad proofs have been seen by the advertiser, will be made only if time permits and will be subject to a late fee. The Brangus Publications, Inc., board of directors has the right to refuse any ad copy or photos. Brangus Journal assumes no responsibility for the accuracy of advertising content as submitted. Advertising containing Brangus pedigrees or statements regarding performance of Brangus cattle must conform to records kept by the IBBA. Copy varying from official records may be changed as necessary without the consent of advertiser. An interest charge of 1.5% per month will be assessed to accounts which become 30 days past due. *State directory ads must be prepaid and will be published unchanged from the previous month unless the advertiser notifies the Brangus Journal to alter the advertisement. The Brangus Journal is not responsible for omissions unless notified.

ADVERTISERSINDEX ADVERTISER

PAGE

ADVERTISER

PAGE

5K Cowbelle Ranch

54

Live Oak Cattle Company

65

ASH Marketing Service

90

Mauer Sales Company

90

Bar C Red Brangus

55

Miami Int Agriculture & Cattle Show

57

Barnes, Tommy

90

Myron Saathoff

58

BKC Ranch, LLC

28, 29

National CUP Lab & Technology Center

90

Bosarge Family Brangus

41

Oakley, Lakin

90

Bovine Elite, LLC

19

OvaGenix

90

Brock Farms

56

Perry Ultrasound

90

Bruns Sales Company

90

Repro Select

91

Camp Cooley Ranch

3, 5, 7

Ritchey Manufacturing Co

65

CattleMax

26, 90

Roberts Ranch

12 89

Circle X Land and Cattle Co., Ltd.

31

RJ Cattle/Ramro LLC

Corlay Cattle Company

IBC

RRR Ranch

Cystorelin

25, 27

4, 13

Santa Rosa Ranch

39 51

D Bar D Brangus

11

Southeast Brangus Association

Dillard Land & Cattle LTD

2

Southern Cattle Co.

Doguet's Diamond D Ranch

9

Spitzer Ranch

35

Don Thomas & Sons

33

Suhn Cattle Company

8

Double W Ranch

37

Texas Brangus Breeders Association

89

Elgin Breeding Service

91

The Oaks Farms

10

Farris Ranching

62

Trio Genetics

53

Five C Cattle

61

Triple JR Cattle Company

IGENITY

18

Triple R Ranch

50

Indian Hills Ranch

30

Valley View Ranch

89

Indian Nation Sale

47

West Texas Brangus Breeders Assoc.

82

IRBBA

43

JLS International

45

Lambert, Doak

90

Brangus Journal

6, 20, 21, 59

1, 64

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2009 | 95

Long-sleeved Shirt. Button-down collar with adjustable cuffs and a patch pocket. Available colors are Red, Natural and Denim ($25).

Ladies also available in Natural (shown at right). Call for size and color availability.

Baseball Cap. Six panel construction, mid profile, stitched eyelets and a Velcro closure.

One size fits most ($12).

NEW ITEM Colorado Timberline Jacket.

Black with khaki lining. Front and back vents, elastic cuffs with Velcro adjustable strap, elastic sides on bottom hem, inside chest pocket. IBBA logo embroidered on left lapel. Name or ranch monogrammed at additional cost of $10 per line ($45). Call for size availability.

WearGuardŽ BreezeMaster™ Windshirt. Black with smooth nylom taffeta lining. Two side-seam pockets hold essentials. 100% polyester microfiber shell. Machine wash, dry. ($55). Call for size availability.

White Ceramic Mug. IBBA Logo with two-sided imprinted area ($3).

IBBASTORE

All prices include tax.

ORDER ONLINE AT WWW.gobrangus.ORG OR CALL 210.696.8231

Move Your Business to the FRONT of the LINE. Advertising in FRONTLINE Beef Producer gets your message out to 20,000 potential customers.

Issue Focus

Mailing Date

Ad Deadline

Herd Health & Grazing Management

March 15

February 20

Feeder Calf Marketing & Bull Power

September 15

August 20

Cow Efficiency & Industry Trends

November 15

October 20

Call the BPI Office today at 210.696.8321 to highlight your products and services in FRONTLINE Beef Producer.

OptimaxX Brangus®

Beef Genetics

Age & Source verification that lets you keep more dollars in YOUR pocket.

OptimaxX is …

• USDA approved Genetic verification of at least 50% IBBA blood of your choice: Brangus®, Red Brangus, Ultrablack®, Ultrared, or Certified Percentage • USDA approved Source verification to ranch of origin • USDA approved Age verification for group age • EASY – Minimal documentation requirements • about Market Access …

- to export markets

- to true value based grids

- to branded programs

- to IBBA marketing assistance programs

ALL FOR THE COST OF THE TAG No Data Management Fees - No Enrollment Fees If you’re not using IBBA bulls, maybe it’s time you take a closer look at the many IBBA Benefits.

www.GoBrangus.com International Brangus Breeders Association