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RED ANGUS Spotlight on
DECEMBER 2021 •
Vol. 35, Issue No. 12
arolina attle onnection
ONNECTION 2021 S.C. State Fair Beef Cattle Shows Report ............................................................................ page 68 2021 South Carolina Sale Barn Cattle Receipts ............................................................................ page 72 A Message from the CEO — Membership Has Its Privileges, by Colin Woodall ..................... page 56 Alltech News ....................................................................................................................................... page 51 Amazing Grazing — Managing for Diversity Can Build Resiliency in Grazing Systems, by Johnny Rogers …......................................................................................................................... page 12 American Angus Association News ............................................................................................... page 24 American Hereford Association News ......................................................................................... page 34 Ashley’s Beef Corner — Chuck Roast Round-Up, by Ashley W. Herring .................................. page 10 Beef Checkoff News .......................................................................................................................... page 61 Beef Cuts and Recommended Cooking Methods ....................................................................... page 47 Beef Improvement Federation News ............................................................................................ page 47 BioZyme Incorporated News ......................................................................................................... page 64 Boehringer Ingelheim News ........................................................................................................... page 72 Carolina Cooking — Parmesan Crusted Strip Roast .................................................................. page 72 Carolina Video and Load Lot Monthly Summary ........................................................................ page 26 Cattlemen’s Beef Board Update — The Zodiac and the Beef Checkoff, by Greg Hanes ..................................................... page 70 Certified Angus Beef® News ........................................................................................................... page 23 Control the Controllables and Leave the Rest Alone .................................................................. page 36 Counting My Beef Industry Blessings, by Shelia Grobosky ........................................................ page 40 Diamond V News ............................................................................................................................... page 62 Director’s Report — Together Again — 70th Annual NCCA Conference, by Bryan K. Blinson ........................................................................................................................... page 3 E.B.’s View from the Cow Pasture —A Leopard Cur Will Show the Way to the Corral, by E.B. Harris ................................................................................................................................... page 15 Farm Credit News .............................................................................................................................. page 53 Federation of State Beef Councils Update ................................................................................... page 46 From the Desk of the SCCA President, by Roscoe Kyle ................................................................ page 61 Global Roundtable for Sustainable Beef News ............................................................................ page 66 Gone to Texas Update! ..................................................................................................................... page 72 How to Face Evolving Demands, by Jessica Wesson ..................................................................... page 21 Introduction to Animal Identification ........................................................................................... page 18 John Deere News ............................................................................................................................... page 49 Mary Wood Crowned 2021-2022 Miss American Angus .......................................................... page 28 N.C. Cattlemen’s Foundation — 2022-2023 Scholarship Applications ................................ page 18 N.C. Forage & Grassland Council Forage Spotlight — Join Us for the Upcoming Native Forage Event ................................................................. page 12 N.C. Forage & Grassland Council News — Nominate a Worthy Farmer for the 2022 N.C. Environmental Stewardship Award ......................................................... page 14 N.C. Weekly Livestock Report ....................................................................................................... page 52 National Alfalfa & Forage Alliance News ....................................................................................... page 31 National Cattlemen’s Beef Association News ............................................................................. page 59 National Cattlemen’s Beef Association President’s Report — Stakes Are High and This is No Time for a One Trick Pony, by Jerry Bohn .................... page 54 New NCCA Members for 2021 ........................................................................................................ page 53 North American Limousin Foundation News ............................................................................. page 42 North Carolina Cattle Receipts, Trends, and Prices .................................................................... page 16 On the Edge of Common Sense — The Dreaded Blue Box, by Baxter Black ............................ page 19 Premier Select Sires News ............................................................................................................... page 62 Retreading NEPA Reforms .............................................................................................................. page 67 S.C. Beef Council News, by Roy Copelan ........................................................................................ page 54 S.C. Charolais News, by Georgeanne Webb .................................................................................... page 31 South Carolina Cattle Receipts, Trends, and Prices .................................................................... page 71 The Fake Meat Debate — Where NCBA Stands and How We Are Fighting for Farmer and Ranchers ............... page 60 The Simmental Trail, by Jennie Rucker …….........................................................................……….. page 32 You Decide!, by Dr. Mike Walden ..................................................................................................... page 16 Zoetis News ......................................................................................................................................... page 71
N.C. Cattlemen’s Association President KARL GILLESPIE 860 Corbin Road • Franklin, NC 28734
Vice Presidents BURON LANIER 2877 Piney Woods Road • Burgaw, NC 28425
The Carolina Cattle Connection Vol. 35, No. 12 DECEMBER 2021 Sales & Publication Office
SCOTT WEST 489 Panacea Springs Road • Littleton, NC 27850
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The Carolina Cattle Connection
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Beef Board Director - ROBERT CRABB Secretary/Treasurer - EVERETT JOHNSON Directors At Large MATT POORE • NEIL BOWMAN • TODD SEE
Manager, N.C.
STAFF
BRYAN BLINSON
Manager, S.C. TRAVIS MITCHELL Executive Director BRYAN K. BLINSON 2228 N. Main Street • Fuquay-Varina, NC 27526 Editor & Advertising Director N.C. Cattlemen’s Beef Council Director of Consumer Information ASHLEY W. HERRING Administrative Assistant - KIM BURDGE
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Executive Director - TRAVIS MITCHELL S.C. Circulation To Be Announced P.O. Box 207 • Saluda, SC 29138 Phone: 803-609-2828 Material in The Carolina Cattle Connection Email: twmitch@clemson.edu is not to be reproduced in total or in part Website: www.sccattlemen.wildapricot.org without the written permission of the Editor. All Executive Committee submissions become property of The Carolina President - Roscoe Kyle Cattle Connection, but we make every effort to 1st Vice President - Timmy Benton return items such as photographs and artwork as nd 2 Vice President - Joe Oswald IV requested. Secretary - Carol Hendrix Treasurer - Eric Seymour Past President - Thomas Legare
William Brigman, Latta • Joe Oswald, IV, Allendale Roscoe Kyle, Inman • Terry Kirkland, Batesburg Eddie Evans, Easley • Cecil Eaddy, Manning Thomas Legare, Johns Island • Richard Sox, Lexington Carol Hendrix, Westminister • Clay Alexander, Starr Timmy Benton, Walterboro • Michael Bailey, Lancaster Bonnie Cann, Abbeville • Thomas Jones, Marion Lee Haddon, Gaffney • Jack Ferguson, York Drake Yon, Ridge Spring • Gene Crim, St. Matthews
S.C. Beef Council
Executive Director - ROY COPELAN P.O. Box 11280 • Columbia, SC 29211 Phone: 803-917-1119 Email: scbeef@scda.sc.gov Website: www.sccattle.org
The Carolina Cattle Connection, the official publication of the N.C. Cattlemen’s Association and the S.C. Cattlemen’s Association is published monthly by the N.C. Cattlemen’s Association. A complementary subscription is included with membership to each state’s association. Nonmember subscriptions are $30 per year.
All address changes for NCCA members to: The Carolina Cattle Connection 2228 N. Main Street • Fuquay-Varina, NC 27526 All address changes for SCCA members to: The Carolina Cattle Connection P.O. Box 207 • Saluda, SC 29138
RED ANGUS Commercial Cattlemen’s Symposium Fuels Collaboration to Elevate the Industry … page 6 Net Return is Focus of Red Angus Programs, by Jerry Simpson … page 4
Red Angus Association of America Approves Gene Edited Traits for Animal Registration … page 7 Red Angus Launches ‘Red Choice’ to Promote High Quality Females … page 5
Understanding Heterosis Helps Producers Develop Crossbreeding Plan, by Ryan Boldt … page 8 The Carolina Cattle Connection
q DECEMBER 2021
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The Carolina Cattle Connection q DECEMBER 2021
Director’s Report By BRYAN K. BLINSON Executive Director, NCCA
Together Again — 70th Annual NCCA Conference Hopefully, all of you had a wonderful and a bit more normal Thanksgiving this year, and I know we are all looking forward to a Christmas and holiday season with family and friends gathering to enjoy each other. I know I have enjoyed in person sales, the more normal sights, smells, and noises of the N.C. State Fair, real fans at football games rather than cardboard cutouts, and many other things that only in person/real person interactions provide. I really did not realize what a blessing it was to be able to shake hands, have real life conversations, and all of the other connections that the pandemic challenged us with. One of the things that I missed the most was the N.C. Cattlemen’s Association Conference. It is always a weekend that seems to energize me for the rest of the year. Well, that is after I get over the exhaustion of those few days. This coming year, we are planning for a full blown, in person, all hands on deck Conference in Hickory on February 25-26. This will be a special event as it is the 70th Annual N.C. Cattlemen’s Association Conference. We are looking forward to a great trade show that will allow all of us to visit with our supporters
from all over the state and country who not only make available the latest ideas, technology, services, and information, but make the event possible. Our educational program will be led as always by our NCSU extension, teaching, and research faculty, and we will no doubt all be able to gain knowledge to make our farms more productive. We will gather face to face for committees to recommend the direction of the association for the coming year and for the Board of Directors to act on those recommendations. But most importantly, we will have the chance to sit down and eat together, stand around and talk together, learn together, and plan a better industry and association together. As we planned our educational program, we thought back over the last year about challenges. These ranged from supply chain issues, marketing issues, mud issues which led to spring forage issues, and many others that producers dealt with. But as always, the educators and researchers who design the program looked at the challenges and tied them to opportunities. These opportunities are what the educational program will center around at the 70 th Annual N.C. Cattlemen’s
Association Conference. There will be information on how to optimize our resources to keep inputs as low as possible while optimizing the outputs of our farms. COVID-19 certainly challenged us in ways that we never expected, but it also presented some opportunities. One of which was being able to use some of the recovery money to enhance the processing capacity in the state to allow us to capitalize on local beef. Stay tuned to the next issue of The Carolina Cattle Connection, our website at www.nccattle.com, and our social media sites for updates on the educational program and the opportunities available. At lunch, we will have the opportunity to hear from state and national leaders about what is going on within the industry. We also have a special treat for attendees as our keynote speaker will help us to see ways that we can all step up to help ensure we have a seat at the table. On Friday evening, we are also looking forward to our Young Producers Reception, where we hope to continue to capture the energy, ideas, and enthusiasm of the young leaders in our association who are taking the reins and will lead us into the future. In an effort to capture the opportunity to tap into experience, we will also host our first Past President’s Reception, where we will discuss better ways to utilize the sage experience of those who have been leaders for years. We will also be able to enjoy spending time together in the trade show for the social and raise money for the NCBA PAC in our auction. Auction items are always welcome, and willing bidders are a necessity. On Saturday morning, we will also celebrate our youth at the Youth Appreciation Breakfast. We will recognize the achievements of these amazing young people and raise some
money to help with their future success. Following breakfast, we will again gather in the trade show, but it will be a bit different this year. We are fortunate to be able to team up with Sarah and Lee from the N.C. Choices program within NCSU Extension. They are assisting in putting together a Saturday morning program that will help those producers who sell some or all of their cattle in the form of local beef but maybe, more importantly, let those who are considering trying to capitalize on this growing opportunity learn how. Sarah, Lee, and the other members of the educational team will help producers explore opportunities in producing and selling some of their animals that do not fit into their normal marketing programs as local beef. Many of us sold freezer beef years ago, and the opportunities certainly are becoming more abundant each year. This will be a chance to find out how to do this successfully for both yourselves and your customers. I am truly excited about the 70th Annual N.C. Cattlemen’s Association Conference and look forward to seeing many of you, shaking your hand, catching up, and just being together. Sign up early so that we can make sure that this is the best conference ever.
Don’t get caught napping!
Deadline is 5th of month prior to issue!
Second Annual Beef Cattle Conference - December 18, 1952
The Carolina Cattle Connection
q DECEMBER 2021
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e Special
Spotlight on
RED ANGUS
Section f
Net Return is Focus of Red Angus Programs By JERRY SIMPSON Red Angus Association of the Carolinas An often used cliche’ is “the easiest money you will ever make is the money you don’t spend.” Regardless of whether it’s crops, poultry, or cattle, a certain level of production requires a certain level of inputs, and lowering the costs of these inputs is often the key to a net return on investment and, in some cases, financial survival. This is particularly true in the cattle business as with a decline in prices, producers have failed to realize a similar decline in the cost of inputs. Often this can result in producers who get caught up in a failed paradigm; that is, they keep managing their operation the same way while expecting different results. Such is the case with beef cattle. As beef producers, we are no longer
in competition with pork and poultry producers for market share alone. We are also in competition with those same industries along with others for inputs like fertilizer, fuel, grain, and land. There just seems to be no “free lunch” when it comes to the cost of beef production. These changes require a new shift in management away from maximum output and more towards efficiency. Since its inception in 1954, Red Angus has had among its core values, “…to discourage the more artificial practices in purebred cattle production and to place its faith instead in objective tests, consisting for the most part of measurements of important factors of known economic importance.” Focusing on these “Economically Relevant Traits”
most important to commercial producers has allowed Red Angus to become the fastest growing purebred breed today and the only breed to show an increase in registrations over the last two years. Why? Fertility - Profit starts at Reproduction. No trait impacts profitability like fertility, especially fertility with reproductive pressure. It’s one thing to have a 95 percent pregnancy rate, but can you do it in less than 60 days to yield more calves in the first 21 days of the calving season and yield a more uniform, higher value calf crop? Rather than simply using yearling bulls’ scrotal circumference as an indicator of their daughters’ age at puberty, the Red Angus Heifer Pregnancy (HPG) EPD
predicts producer desired results. Pregnant Heifers - Producers who can count on a higher percentage of pregnant heifers will have a larger number of replacements they can cash crop. Longevity - University studies estimate a cow must produce until age five or six in order to break even. Females that stay in the herd mean reduced replacement rates and more valuable heifers to sell, which is a huge economic driver for cow/ calf producers. As one of the few breeds with mandatory Total Herd Reporting (THR), Red Angus offers the advantage of Stayability (STAY) EPDs, which predict a bull’s ability to sire daughters that remain productive past their breakeven point. Red Angus females sired by high Stayability
Contact these RAAC members to learn more about Red Angus genetics and how they can fit into your herd. HARDROCK BEEF CATTLE Ronnie & Donna Holman 4613 Hickory Nut Ridge Road • Granite Falls, NC 828-302-8659 ronnie@hardrockbeefcattle.com JK RED ANGUS Jeff Banfield & Madison Adams 331 Tee Jay Farm Road • Aberdeen, NC 910-315-3821 jkredangus@gmail.com LANGDON RED ANGUS & SIMMENTAL John & Eileen Langdon 7728 Raleigh Road • Benson, NC 919-796-5010 johnlangdon5@gmail.com ROGERS CATTLE COMPANY Johnny & Sharon Rogers 945 Woodsdale Road • Roxboro, NC 336-504-7268 rccbeef@gmail.com PRESNELL RED ANGUS Jonathan & Jacob Presnell 368 Whitaker Road • Shelby, NC 704-473-2627 (Jonathan) • 704-616-8775 (Jacob) BULL HILL RANCH Jim & Alvina Meeks • Raymond Prescott, Manager 1986 Trinity Church Road • Gray Court, SC 864-682-3900 • 864-682-2828 bullhill2@mindspring.com
Terry Boyles, President - twinbfarm1@gmail.com
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The Carolina Cattle Connection q DECEMBER 2021
COUNTRY BOY FARMS David Miller 316 Key Road • Edgefield, SC 706-840-3709
e Special Red Angus sires are the foundation of a cow herd built to last. Cows Eat Money! Feed costs typically represent producers’ largest expense, and this is never truer than today. In this era of increased input costs (grain, hay, land
Spotlight on
RED ANGUS
value, fertilizer, etc.), reducing annual cow maintenance costs is paramount to profitability. Red Angus’s Mature Cow Maintenance Energy Requirement (ME) EPD arms producers with a tool to help keep feed costs in check. Efficient, easy
Red Angus Launches ‘Red Choice’ to Promote High Quality Females To promote improved heifer development, increase marketing opportunities for Red Angus females, and create reliable sources of high quality replacement heifers for cattle producers, the Red Angus Association of America recently launched the “Red Choice” program. The program embraces proven reproductive and genetic management practices which, in turn, lead to high quality, long lasting females that are ready to hit the ground running in commercial herds. Based on the Show-Me-Select Replacement Heifer Replacement Program from the University of Missouri, the Red Choice program comes with several requirements that increase the overall quality of enrolled females, such as minimum vaccination requirements pre-breeding exams, utilization of reproductive technologies, parasite control, and feet and leg scoring. The program culminates with sale eligibility wherein cattle producers can purchase premium Red Choice females for their herd with the confidence that those females have been managed and raised to the highest quality standards possible. The primary goal for these better managed heifers is their retention in the herd of origin, where their extra value will be measurable over time. “The Red Angus female has long been viewed as the industry’s most favored,” said Harold Bertz, RAAA commercial marketing director. “The Red Choice program strengthens that claim and elevates Red Angus female value even higher. The success of the Show-Me-Select program in Missouri and its effect on the cattle business in that state has been monumental. We feel that making this program available to Red Angus and Red Angus influenced cattle will have similar results. Adding documented best management practices, breeding protocol, and sire selection criteria to the highly popular Red Angus bred heifer creates an opportunity for increased rancher profit in every environment. The value of best management practices is inherent.” The program officially launched this fall. Enrollment deadlines are February 1 for spring breeding and September 1 for the fall breeding season. A full description of the program and its requirements is available at www. RedAngus.org. For questions about the Red Choice program or other Red Angus marketing initiatives, contact Nolan Woodruff, commercial marketing specialist, at nolan@redangus.org.
Section f
fleshing Red Angus replacements can help you get a handle on feed costs and make the most of available forage. Calving - Profit begins with a live calf. Heifers that experience calving problems are often slower and harder to rebreed. Calving ease is a trait of major economic impact, and Red Angus describes the trait genetically with Direct and Maternal Calving Ease EPDs. Purchase Red Angus replacements sired by high Maternal Calving Ease Red Angus sires and you’ll sleep better. Disposition - Beyond obvious safety issues, the superior docility of Red Angus increases profits through easier handling, better A.I. conception, faster gains, higher USDA quality grade, and fewer dark cutters. It just makes sense, lowering the cost of inputs while adding value leads to increased opportunity for profit. I
The Carolina Cattle Connection
know I told you earlier there’s no such thing as a free lunch, well actually there is...heterosis! Every cattleman knows the impact hybrid vigor can have on performance and added value when used in a well planned crossbreeding system. Premium Baldy and Red Navigator are two programs that offer commercial producers opportunities to capitalize on heterosis through the use of Red Angus genetics. Since 1954, Red Angus has focused its efforts on commercial profitability. These efforts have been realized when net return is key because Red is Right Now! If you would like more information on how Red Angus can add to the efficiency of your operation or if you need help in locating Red Angus bulls or replacement females, feel free to give me a call at 704-302-2940, or contact any of the breeders listed on our website at www.redanguscarolinas.com.
q DECEMBER 2021
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Spotlight on
RED ANGUS
Section f
Commercial Cattlemen’s Symposium Fuels Collaboration to Elevate the Industry The 2021 National Red Angus Convention, hosted in Boise, Idaho, featured the Commercial Cattlemen’s Symposium, which allowed members to collaborate with industry professionals to elevate the future of the beef industry, not just the Red Angus breed. Feeder Calf Panel - Emcee Trent Stewart of Central Oregon Livestock Auction kicked off the symposium with a feeder calf panel featuring Guthrie Newell of Agri Beef, Brock Hough of Beef Northwest, and Perry Martin of H3 Feeders LLC. These three cattle feeding experts explained how the industry can collaborate to make the “perfect beast” through continuous innovation. The panel members discussed the two major concerns facing the industry – calf health and carcass quality. Calf health is crucial for profitability as calves must perform on both health and genetic levels. Buyers want to purchase vaccinated calves that come from genetic lines with proven health to meet their maximum genetic potential. The demand for USDA Choice beef is higher today than ever before, and the industry needs genetics with excellent carcass quality. Quality grade is colorblind, and red cattle can meet the U.S. and export demand. “When I flip through video catalogs, I look for animal health and familiar cattle. I want to purchase calves who stay healthy, allowing them to achieve their maximum genetic potential. Calves out of the right bulls providing the right genetics and vaccinations are crucial. If they haven’t had a modified live vaccine, turn the page,” said Hough. The demand to purchase cattle is high, so if buyers do not know about
your cattle, they cannot buy your cattle. Advertise your cattle and tell the buyer everything regarding genetics, vaccinations, and anything else you believe will help increase your profits. “You only get one chance a year to sell your calves,” said Newell. “Make it count.” There are several trends in the cattle industry. The Red Angus breed has focused on producing high performance sires and maternal cows to meet industry demands. Demand for USDA Choice beef will only continue to increase in the United States. American people have more money in their pockets than ever before, and cattlemen need to capitalize on this. Data collection is essential in advancing the breed. EID tags allow fast transfer of data to allow producers to make quick, critical decisions efficiently. The lack of capacity in packing plants will continue to impact the industry for years to come. One of the industry’s newest phenomena is beef-on-dairy crosses. The trend is huge, with highly predictable genetics that allow dairy crosses to bring a premium due to the advertisement of proven genetics. Feeding Challenges - Julian Garcia, Beef Northwest CEO, joined the discussion about feedyard uniqueness in the Pacific Northwest. Beef Northwest is a fifth generation, privately owned feeding company across Oregon, Washington, and California. The operation consists of three feedlots, three grow yards, and a pasture facility. Beef Northwest can use potatoes as a unique feedstuff to feed more than 110,000 head annually. When purchasing feeder cattle for Beef Northwest, the essential components are health, proven genetics of any color, and the ability to
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The Carolina Cattle Connection q DECEMBER 2021
grade USDA Choice or higher. The labor challenge brought forth a reflection for the company to ask, “What more can we do for our employees?” A company must sustain their employees to sustain the supply chain. The company wants to advance the future of agriculture by investing in youth through internships available in many sectors of the operation. Garcia left the group with a positive outlook on the industry. “As disposable incomes continue to increase, the demand of U.S. quality beef will continue to increase.” Cull Cow Panel - The cull cow panel consisting of Trent Stewart, Randy Baxley of Visalia Livestock, and Eric Drees of 7 Rivers Livestock, provoked discussion on the opportunities for producers to add value to their cull cows. Better conditioned, better yielding cows will bring a higher dollar at sale time. Maternal breeds, like Red Angus, have greater opportunities for cull cow sales through the sale of rebreeds. The panel encouraged producers to not disregard the value of young cows due to performance in certain environments. The panel concluded with producers who believe in competition and sell their cows at auction to support the big picture of cull cows, which adds value to this portion of their operations. “The cull cow market can account from anywhere between 12-20 percent of a ranch’s bottom line. Cull cows can be an afterthought on the ranch, but they can be an important part of filling that bottom line,” explained Drees.
Feed Efficiency - The symposium concluded with Randall Raymond of Simplot discussing the effects of feed efficiency in commercial cattle feeding operations. Simplot calculates the residual feed intake, which is expected dry matter intake independent of growth, that is used to determine if an animal eats more or less than expected. Producers selecting for maternal traits versus terminal traits should weigh intake differently in their selections. Genetic progress in feed efficiency requires accurate selection, constant reevaluation, and discipline. Feed efficiency drives feedyard profitability and can be accomplished through industry innovation. “When selecting for economic return, you cannot select for gain alone,” explained Raymond. “If you are going to select for intake, you must pair it with gain or use something like RFI. When we increase RFI, we can measure things that are recognizable in the sustainability conversation.” The annual Red Angus Commercial Cattlemen’s Symposium was an opportunity for cattle producers to collaborate about new innovations available to them to elevate their operations. By gaining perspective of issues affecting everything from calf health to feedlot efficiency to meeting end consumer demands, commercial cattle producers are better equipped to return to the ranch to make better breeding and management decisions. To learn more about how Red Angus breeders are working hard to meet industry demands, visit www.RedAngus.org.
e Special
Spotlight on
RED ANGUS
Section f
Red Angus Association of America Approves Gene Edited Traits for Animal Registration The Red Angus Association of America (RAAA), a leading progressive breed organization for seedstock beef cattle in the United States, announced recently they will provide herdbook registry of Red Angus animals carrying gene edited traits for heat tolerance and coat color. Both trait approvals by RAAA emanate from specific genetic alterations designed and submitted by Acceligen, a technology company pioneering the commercialization of gene edited food animals. Acceligen has already bred and registered animals that express a trait known for better tolerance to tropical and sub-tropical heat. Black-to-red gene edits have also been made on multiple calves that will be born soon. These traits are a part of Acceligen’s business portfolio that
focuses on providing opportunities to the global cattle industry for better genetic management of animal well being and health. RAAA recognizes the efficacy of this advanced technology to provide its breeders with new opportunities along with an enhanced and expanded gene pool. Red Angus is the first beef breed organization to accept gene edited animals into their registry, recognizing the potential benefits they can bring to the breed. Tom Brink, CEO of RAAA, explained, “In considering the future, we see an opportunity to accelerate the Red Angus breed’s genetic progress by selectively allowing gene-edited animals into our population. The technology has been proven to be both safe and effective, and for traits such as the slick
hair coat and black to red, there is a chance to speed up the introduction of useful, naturally occurring genes and genetic combinations that would take many generations to accomplish through traditional breeding efforts.” According to Acceligen CEO Dr. Tad Sonstegard, “Working with the Red Angus Association provides a prime opportunity to boost purebred breeding programs via desirable traits and overall breed improvement outcomes that could take decades through classical breeding methods. These traits also demonstrate how genetics can solve problems ranging from carbon footprint to biodiversity, which are topics we are all concerned about relative to the beef production value chain.” During the breeding process,
The Carolina Cattle Connection
Acceligen makes changes to the candidate animal’s genome that are identical to those that occur naturally in other cattle breeds. Accessing Acceligen’s breeding platform allows producers to introduce important traits in a single generation to rapidly achieve the same historically safe and effective outcomes of any conventional breeding program. Acceligen also derisks the process of commercialization for breeders and commercial producers by providing complementary efforts to obtain regulatory clearance on gene edited traits in cattle. At this time of precommercial acceptance by RAAA, both heat tolerance and coat color traits require final regulatory decisions from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Acceligen is currently working with FDA for trait commercialization.
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Spotlight on
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Section f
Understanding Heterosis Helps Producers Develop Crossbreeding Plan By RYAN BOLDT Director of Breed Improvement, RAAA Commercial operations often look to crossbreeding to give their calves an extra boost in performance and to produce replacement females with increased fertility and longevity. By understanding heterosis created through crossbreeding – and the different types of heterosis – cattlemen and women can develop a crossbreeding system that best suits their individual environment and management scenarios. Factors Affecting Performance The equation to calculate the expected phenotype of an animal is relatively simple. The factors that affect the performance of the animal are the animal’s genotypic value and the environment that the animal experienced.
Within this equation, an animal’s genotypic value can be broken down further into two main parts. The first component is an animal’s breeding value or additive genetic value. This part of the genetic model is important as it’s the portion of an animal’s genotypic value that can be passed on through selection and mating. The second part of an animal’s genotypic value is the gene combination value. This portion of the genotypic model focuses on the combination of alleles possessed by an animal. Due to the fact that animals generally receive half of their genetic makeup from each of their parents, the gene combination value that an animal possesses is not passed from
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The Carolina Cattle Connection q DECEMBER 2021
one generation to the next. However, through the set up of proper mating systems, the benefits of increased gene combination value can still be utilized. Types of Heterosis There are three main types of heterosis that can be utilized within beef cattle production. These types include individual, maternal, and paternal heterosis. When most people think of heterosis, they think of it in terms of individual heterosis. Take weaning weight, for example. If the average performance of the breed of the sire was 550 pounds and the average of the purebred dam’s breed was 540 pounds, the average or expected performance of this cross would be 545 pounds. If the average performance of the calves was 555 pounds, the increase of ten pounds over the average of the parents would be individual heterosis of the progeny. Commonly, heterosis is expressed as a percent. In this example, the percent individual hybrid vigor that would be expressed is 1.8 percent. The other two types of heterosis relate to the ability of crossbred parents to outperform straight bred counterparts. An example of maternal heterosis is improved mothering ability in crossbred dams. The main way that these are separated out is that individual heterosis focuses on the current generation,
whereas maternal and paternal heterosis are part of the previous generation that is used to breed the current generation. The most common method to introduce heterosis in commercial cattle production is through the use of crossbreeding. There are multiple mating strategies that allow for the increase of hybrid vigor. However, hybrid vigor can also be achieved within a breed when individuals from distinct lines or pedigrees are mated. The reason for this is as animals become more inbred, they may exhibit what is known as inbreeding depression. This is caused by an increase in homozygosity and a reduction of gene combination value. However, when these inbred individuals are mated to animals that are not closely related – known as outcrossing – the potential inbreeding depression in the offspring is reversed. In order to be successful, one of a commercial operation’s main goals should be to maximize all three forms of heterosis. The most common method is to do this through the use of a mating system that takes advantage of breed complementarity. The first step to this process is to develop a plan to take advantage of heterosis. Once the plan is established, producers can continue to make mating decisions and purchases that allow that plan to be successful.
The Carolina Cattle Connection
q DECEMBER 2021
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2 Tbsp honey 1 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce 1 small (8 oz.) can crushed pineapple 1 large package Hawaiian style sweet rolls Sweet pickles or similar garnish
Ashley’s Beef Corner
T
Chuck Roast Round-Up
By ASHLEY W. HERRING Director of Consumer Information N.C. Cattlemen’s Beef Council With the return of the N.C. Mountain State Fair and the N.C. State Fair, our beef recipe contests were back in full swing. The entries were super creative and brought flavors from the southwest, Asian, Irish, American, and more. The idea was to bring new life to an old favorite, the always available and usually priced on special, chuck. We especially love using this cut during the fall and winter seasons because of its hearty flavor and filling nature. We hope you enjoy trying out these recipes, and be sure to let us know what you think!
N.C. Mountain State Fair Beef Recipe Winners Justin Pegg - Asheville, N.C. Guinness Stew 6 oz. Pancetta, diced 1 cup beef ¼ cup tomato paste 3 Tbsp all purpose flour 3 springs thyme 5 shallots, chopped 2 bay leaves 3 cloves garlic, minced 1½ tsp salt ¼ tsp pepper 2 Tbsp oil 16 oz. Guinness 24 Klondike medley potatoes, cut into quarters 2 large carrots chopped into ½” pieces 2 ribs celery chopped into ½” pieces 1 large turnip chopped into ½” pieces 2 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce Tbsp dried and ground porcini mushrooms
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Cut the beef into 1” cubes. Sprinkle salt and pepper over beef. Add oil to dutch oven over high heat and add the beef in batches and brown on all sides. Remove from pan and set aside. Lower heat to medium if the pot looks dry and add some oil. Add shallots and garlic and cook for about 5 minutes or until onions are soft. Add pancetta to mixture and brown, then add potatoes, carrots, celery, and turnips to the mixture and cook for 5-10 minutes. Add flour to the mixture and stir for 1 minute to cook off flour. Add Guinness, beef broth, and tomato paste. Turn heat up to medium-high and bring to a boil for two minutes while deglazing the pan. Stir in bay leaves, thyme, porcini mushrooms, and Worcestershire sauce to the mixture. Return beef to the mixture and stir to combine. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 2 hours. Remove the cover and simmer for about 30 minutes until meat falls apart at the touch. Remove bay leaves and thyme. Add salt and pepper to taste and serve.
Sharon Gates - Leicester, N.C. Aloha Sloppy Joe Sliders 1½ lb ground beef chuck ½ cup minced onion ½ cup minced bell pepper ½ cup barbecue sauce
The Carolina Cattle Connection q DECEMBER 2021
In a large skillet over medium heat, add ground chuck, onion, and bell pepper. Using a spatula, crumble the beef and turn the mixture with a spatula, cooking until beef is browned and vegetables are softened, about 6-8 minutes. Reduce heat to low. Pour in barbecue sauce, honey, Worcestershire sauce, and pineapple and stir. Heat 2-3 minutes until sauce ingredients are warmed through. Spoon into slider rolls and serve warm, with pickles, or desired garnish, and side dishes of choice.
finely ground. Add to skillet with beef. In a small bowl, stir brown sugar, ketchup, vinegar, and mustard until well combined. Add to beef mixture and stir well. Add beans and stir until combined. Spray a 9x13” baking dish with cooking spray. Transfer beef/bean mixture to baking dish and place in oven. Bake, uncovered, 45 minutes. Serve hot (preferably with a big ‘ol piece of cornbread). These true beefy cowboy beans really hit the spot on a chilly day!
N.C. State Fair Beef Recipe Winners
Connie Pegg - Asheville, N.C. All Beef Cowboy Beans 1¼ lb ground chuck 1 large onion, chopped 4 oz. beef jerky ½ cup packed brown sugar ⅓ cup ketchup 3 Tbsp cider vinegar 2 Tbsp yellow mustard 1 16 oz. can pork and beans 1 15 oz. can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
Preheat oven to 350ºF. In a large skillet, cook ground chuck and onion on medium heat until onion is soft and beef is no longer pink. Drain well. Meanwhile, place jerky in a food processor or chopper and pulse until
Pamela Cash Carolina BBQ Chuck Roast and Red Potatoes with Red Slaw 2½ lbs chuck roast ½ head of green cabbage ¼ head of purple cabbage ¼ cup of Duke’s mayo ¼ cup of pickle juice 2 small sweet pickles ½ envelope of steak seasoning 1 ½ cup of white vinegar ½ cup of apple cider vinegar 1 cup of water 2 Tbsp red pepper flakes ½ Tbsp salt ½ cup granulated sugar + 2 Tbsp for slaw 9 small red potatoes ½ Vidalia onion 1½ stick of butter 2 pinches of baking soda Wash chuck roast by rinsing. Put chuck roast in roasting pan and potatoes and onion. Sprinkle both sides with steak seasoning. Then cover the meat with olive oil and cover onion and potatoes. Put in the oven for 4 hours at 375ºF. Make sure all items are submerged. Turn meat & potatoes over every hour to cook evenly. Shred cabbage. Mix cabbage with mayo, pickle, pickle juice, sugar, and pepper. Put in refrigerator until ready to serve. Let the meat and potatoes cool for ten minutes. Add rolls on the table with tea. The beef and slaw make a great sandwich. My inspiration for the dish was to bring a new contender to the vinegar based Southern plate sales and special
dinners. Churches, Masons, and charities almost always serve slaw, potatoes, and chicken or pork. Slide over! Beef is BOSS! A lot of people do not eat pork or chicken. This is just another way to showcase what a versatile meat that BEEF truly is. This is perfect blissful beef.
Julia Truelove Beef & Broccoli Sliders For the beef: 2½-3 lb chuck roast 1 Tbsp olive oil 1 Tbsp toasted sesame oil 2 medium yellow onions, sliced 1 red bell pepper, sliced 1 Tbsp minced garlic 1 Tbsp minced fresh ginger ¼ cup Hoisin sauce 1 cup pineapple juice ¼ cup low sodium soy sauce 1 Tbsp sriracha 1 tsp rice vinegar ¼ cup cilantro, chopped Salt and pepper For the broccoli slaw: 1 (12 oz.) bag of broccoli slaw 3 Tbsp low sodium soy sauce 2 Tbsp rice vinegar ¼ cup pineapple juice 2 cloves garlic minced 1½ tsp toasted sesame oil 1 Tbsp minced fresh ginger ¼ cup cilantro, chopped ¼ cup sliced almonds Salt and pepper to taste 12 Hawaiian dinner rolls, toasted Preheat oven to 325ºF. Season the roast with salt and pepper. In a large Dutch oven, heat olive oil and sesame oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Brown the roast, about 5 minutes per side. Remove the roast and set aside. Lower the heat and add the onions and bell pepper to the pot. Sauté for 5 minutes, then add garlic and ginger and cook for 1 minute. In a small bowl, mix together pineapple juice,
Hoisin sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sriracha. Return beef to pot, pour the liquids over the beef, cover, and cook in preheated oven for 2½ hours. Meanwhile, in a large bowl, whisk together the dressing ingredients and add the broccoli slaw, cilantro, and almonds. Toss well to coat, cover and refrigerate until ready to serve. Shred the meat with two forks, stir in cilantro, and check for seasoning. Slice each roll in half and fill with shredded beef and slaw. Serve immediately. Makes 12 sliders. *You can change things up with the leftovers by serving the reheated roast on steamed rice alongside the slaw to make rice bowls instead of sliders.
and sesame oil to a small saucepan over medium heat and stir well. Whisk the cornstarch and water in a small glass. Add to soy sauce mixture. Bring to a boil while whisking for a few minutes until thickened. Reserve about ½ cup of the soy sauce mixture and pour the remaining liquid over the chuck roast. Cover chuck roast pan with foil and return to oven until temperature reaches 195ºF (about 1 hour). Remove meat from the oven, preserving the juices in the pan, and shred/chop. Return meat back to the pan, add reserved sauce plus the honey, and place in the oven for another 30 minutes to cause the sauce to ‘stick’ to the meat and caramelize. Cut green onion stems into 2 inch pieces and pickle in the vinegar for 30
minutes. Toast the sesame seeds in a skillet for about 30 seconds Serve meat in a taco shell, adding pickled green onion and crema.
Bob Brescia Korean Burnt End Taco 3 lb chuck roast ¾ cup low sodium soy sauce ¾ cup brown sugar 2 Tbsp minced garlic 2 Tbsp rice wine vinegar 2 Tbsp chili paste or sriracha 1 tsp minced fresh ginger (or ¼ tsp powder ginger) 1 tsp sesame oil 2 Tbsp water 1 tsp cornstarch 3 Tbsp honey 2 tsp toasted sesame seeds Green onions 2 Tbsp vinegar Salt and pepper Taco shells (flour tortillas) Crema (can substitute using sour cream mixed with heavy crème and lime) Best if using a smoker at 250ºF, but a regular oven will work just as well. Preheat smoker or oven to 250ºF. Season chuck roast with salt and pepper, place in a shallow pan, and place in oven. Cook until temperature reaches 165ºF (approximately 5-6 hours) and remove from oven. Cut the whole roast into small 1 inch pieces. While waiting for the meat, we will make the sauce. Add the soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, vinegar, chili paste, ginger,
The Carolina Cattle Connection
q DECEMBER 2021
PAGE 11
By JOHNNY R. ROGERS
Amazing Grazing Program Coordinator
Managing for Diversity Can Build Resiliency in Grazing Systems Regenerative agriculture is the topic of many conversations these days. Farmers and ranchers are taking a deeper look at their operations and discovering the complexity that exists in their pastures. Understanding and working with these natural systems can lead to lower production costs with similar productivity. In some cases, forage production and livestock performance can be increased in the long term as well. However, there is still much we do not know about managing soil, plants, and animals in a way that benefits the whole system (not just one component). All farms have unique circumstances, which will change the tactics needed for success. The “mountain” of information we have at our fingertips (literally) has never been greater. The question becomes how to make the appropriate decisions for you and your farm. There are no easy answers, but I think managing our farms in a matter that fosters diversity will build a foundation for better grazing systems. Managing for diversity is one of the principles of soil health, and improving pastures must start with the soil. Walking your pastures and taking an inventory of the plants available can tell you about soil health and previous management. A soil test can help determine if amendments are needed to improve productivity. Degraded pastures often need an infusion of fertility to restore productivity. These inputs can
Adaptive grazing management rests forages and builds resilient pastures.
be added over a few years to manage expenditures. Consider correcting soil pH by adding lime early in the process because acidic soil conditions can limit the availability of other nutrients. Correcting soil pH will make it more practical to grow legumes, which adds diversity. Clovers will add nitrogen to the soil and will boost forage production over time. This becomes even more valuable as commercial nitrogen prices increase. Other grasses and forbs will thrive with better fertility offering livestock a more diverse diet.
Building soil health through grazing management can produce diverse pastures.
Adaptive Grazing Management promotes pasture diversity by controlling the frequency and intensity of grazing events. Heavy grazing with limited residual forage remaining can favor one forage species over another. The time of the year this takes place will influence the plant composition of that pasture in the
Do your homework before adding enterprises and make sure they fit your operational goals.
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The Carolina Cattle Connection q DECEMBER 2021
future. The length of the recovery period will affect the types of forage present, and using variable grazing methods will build diversity. Electric fencing is a powerful tool that has made more intensive forage management practical. Many producers are learning how to use temporary electric fencing to add tremendous flexibility to their operations. This practice protects plants from overgrazing and enhances forage utilization; both will build long term diversity and resilience. In nature, many animal types use grassland resources. Many farms mimic this by having multiple enterprises to capture the value in their diverse pastures. Each livestock species has its own grazing/browsing preferences and can provide an opportunity for profitability. However, careful consideration should be taken before pursuing additional enterprises. New ventures should not take time or other resources away from the primary enterprise. In addition, the new enterprise should support the operational goal(s) and not negatively affect your quality of life. It is easy to overextend our operations labor. Always consider the impact your decisions will have on you,
your staff, and your family. Biological diversity in our resource base is an important consideration in grazing systems. Acknowledging soil health and the positive influence that it can have on our farms is a great starting point. Our management can build better plant communities that nourish our livestock. We may choose to add different livestock species to enhance our operations. Alternatively, we may understand that simplicity is better for us. In the end, we will get what we manage for in our pastures. Diversity can be an important foundation to successful farms, and I encourage you to consider how you will use it in your operation. Good grazing!
Temporary electric fence adds flexibility to grazing systems.
N.C. Forage & Grassland Council Forage Spotlight Join Us for the Upcoming Native Forages Event Join us on December 14 for an evening discussion of how to establish and use native grasses, legumes, forbs, and pollinator plants to enhance production and conservation value in forage systems. Information relevant to and examples derived from North Carolina will be presented by: • Dr. Pat Keyser, Director of the Center for Native Grasslands Management and Professor, University of Tennessee • Jason Smith, District 7 Wildlife
Biologist, N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission • Dr. Alan Franzluebbers, USDA Research Ecologist, Soil Ecology and Management Lab, N.C. State University • John Isenhour, District 6 Wildlife Biologist, N.C. Wildlife Conservation Biologist This event will be held virtually. To register, go to https://go.ncsu. edu/2022ncfgcwinterconference. Upon registration, a zoom link will be sent to you.
The Carolina Cattle Connection
q DECEMBER 2021
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N.C. Forage & Grassland Council News
Nominate a Worthy Farmer for the 2022 N.C. Environmental Stewardship Award Description and application procedures: Beef producers use their management skills to convert natural resources into a healthy food product.To be successful in the long run, it is in our best interest to be good stewards of the land we manage. There has been an increased awareness about human impact on the environment, and the beef industry has initiatives at all levels to improve environmental stewardship. This award is just one more effort to improve environmental awareness of beef producers and to educate the general public about environmental efforts of the beef industry. There are many examples of environmental stewardship among North Carolina cattlemen. The N.C. Cattlemen’s Association, the N.C. Forage and Grassland Council, and Merck Animal Health have teamed up to recognize innovative environmental stewards in North Carolina’s beef industry with an Environmental Stewardship Award. The award is meant to recognize innovative cattlemen and to provide positive examples and ideas for conservation practices that can be easily implemented by North Carolina beef producers. The winner in 2021 was Josh and
Brandi Teague of Running T farm in Iredell County. The development of their farm and their innovative use of Regenerative Grazing Principles was the focus of a great pasture walk during the summer of 2021. Previous winning applications can be viewed on the N.C. Cattlemen’s website under the Forage and Grassland Council link. Eligibility requirements: Applicants must raise beef cattle and must be a member of the N.C. Cattlemen’s Association. A producer may not nominate themselves, but may be nominated by any organization or individual, which may include an extension agent, industry personnel, conservation agent, a county cattlemen’s association, or another individual producer. Generally, a producer will be involved in preparing their application. Past winners can’t resubmit, but resubmission of past nominees is encouraged. Winners of the award will be added to a pool of candidates that will be considered for nomination for the national environmental stewardship award presented by the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association.
Evaluation/Criteria: A committee composed of representatives from the N.C. Cattlemen’s Association, N.C. State University, conservation agencies, and the allied industries will review the application packages. The following criteria will be used to score the applications: 1. Environmental stewardship practices implemented (60%) 2. Local, regional, and national leadership activities that promote environmental stewardship to other producers and improve the public image of the beef industry (40%) Nomination instructions: Applications must be typed and the length should be 12 pages or less. Applications can be submitted by mail or electronically via email. Color photographs of practices implemented are requested as part of the maximum 12 pages, with captions that describe the practice. Practices that might be featured include: alternative watering points, stream buffers, feeding facilities, or any other practices that improve the environment.
“If you have cattle, pastureland, or raise hay like I do, you need to call Donna Byrum. In 10 minutes on the hood of my pickup, she signed me up for a program that I had no idea about. The next time she came by the farm, she brought me a check! ~ E.B. Harris
DONNA BYRUM
First Choice Insurance 252-792-1189 • fcipllc@gmail.com
For all your crop insurance needs! PAGE 14
The Carolina Cattle Connection q DECEMBER 2021
Nomination package format: SECTION 1 Description of the operation - Name of producer - Address - Phone number and email address - Map of North Carolina showing the location of the farm(s) - What is the nature of the business? Describe the cattle enterprise (cow/ calf, stocker, combination) and other diversified business activities. - History of the operation (length of ownership, changes in the operation over time, acreage, herd numbers, etc.). - Brief description of natural resources on the farm (types of forages, terrain, and water resources). - List organizations that the farm has interacted with in environmental efforts. SECTION 2 Stewardship practices and achievements. Describe the resource management goals and accomplishments in terms of stewardship and conservation. Describe specific, innovative practices that involve energy conservation, wildlife habitat enhancement, manure management, improvements in air quality, improvements in drinking water delivery, and other practices designed to protect surface waters. SECTION 3 Describe how the producer practices environmental stewardship as a part of their management program. How has a stewardship philosophy impacted management strategies, implementation of land improvements, and other activities that improve the public perception of cattle farming in North Carolina? Include any leadership activities of the producer that have improved the adoption of a stewardship philosophy among other producers. Also include any involvement the producer has had in environmental research and any other activities the producer has been involved in that promote a positive public image. Convert the document to pdf format, and submit your nomination by email to Matt_Poore@ncsu.edu. The nomination packet should be submitted by January 10, 2022.
E.B.'s View from the Cow Pasture By E.B. HARRIS
A Leopard Cur Will Show the Way to the Corral Like I said in my last article, Charles had somewhere around a baker’s dozen of the best they could count that was out of the fence but hanging pretty close to the pasture. We thought the thing to do was not risk the big group of 103 head of cattle over the 13 head. We came up with a plan that Charles would get some feed and have his man William start feeding the cattle over by the fence from outside of the fence. After about a week of Willaim coming on Charles’s truck to feed these cattle, they were buddying right up to him. I talked to William several times over the next couple of weeks. He said there were two or three of the younger ones that were a little bit skittish. He got to working with them and got them to feed into the pasture. I had moved the wheel corral to another location that would be more convenient to the area they were in, and the cattle would be easy to feed in. William would feed them late in the evening after it cooled down. I told William when they came on Wednesday evening to close them up. Around 5:30 or 6:00 on Wednesday afternoon, William gave me a call and said they all came in but two little calves. I told him we would head up there. Shane and I headed up there, and William was sitting close to the road. He said there was one of the small calves right there, and the other was standing over in the bushes watching us. Shane and I went down there and set the corral up where we could get close up to the ones in the corral. We took Charles’s truck that William was driving and eased around the one closest to the corral. The other one in the woods was not going to let us drive to him. We got that one in the corral and then set the corral back up again. Then we decided to drive down in the lower field and maybe get around the other calf. The calf was probably as good a calf as was in the group. When you say little, little is relevant. It depends on what the others weigh. This bull calf would weigh 550
lbs and was jet black with a spot on his forehead. We got in the truck and drove down below and started getting him back up in the right direction toward the corral where his mama was, but he would not have any part of it. I told Charles to leave the cattle that were in the corral overnight, and they would be fine. I would be back early in the morning. My plan was to be there early the next morning, so Shane and I made our plans on the way home. He was going to take his dog, or rather Gemma’s dog, Max, and I was going to take Jill from the house. Both of these are Catahoula stock dogs out of some bloodlines of good working stock. We were also going to take the 4-wheeler and see what we could do. When Shane and I arrived back at the cow pasture the next morning, William and Charles met us on his truck. We parked Shane’s gooseneck stock trailer and truck right close to the road. I asked Charles if I could use his truck. The calf was standing next to the corral talking to his mama. I told them to let us ease down there to see if we can get him to go in the corral. We went down real slow on Charles’s truck about 100 yards away from the road. Traffic did not seem to have any effect on Highway 1. We got fairly close to the calf, got on the outside, and by his movements, you could tell he was a little skittish. Shane made the comment to me that the calf had a lot of white around his eyes, a good sign he had light feet. I kind of nodded my head. We eased around him, and he would turn and look at the truck instead of looking at his mama. We got him headed a little bit in the right direction, and then he smelled a mouse, and he wanted no part of that action, so we went to Plan B – Max and Jill. We went back to the road and got the truck and trailer, and brought it to the corner. I knew that the dogs would want to play a little bit when they were first turned out, so Shane eased on down to the general direction to where the calf had gone. We turned the two dogs out, and
Shane headed out on the 4-wheeler in the general direction to where the calf was. The dogs headed on down to where Shane was, and in a minute or two, they picked up the calf scent and trailed him up and found him. He was standing in dog fennel about 6’ high, and inside of two minutes of them working him, the dogs had his attention. Max is a young dog about two years old and had never been away from home, and Jill is a more experienced dog that had been used on cow jobs. By me listening to their bay, they had the calf’s attention when I heard him blow. Evidently, while the dogs had the calf in the dog fennel, they must have tagged him because it was just a moment before he remembered where mama and the rest of the cattle were in that corral. When he got there, he stuck to the outside of the corral as a cobweb would to your face on a dewy morning in the barn. He got right up to it and glued his self to the side of that corral. In other words, he was saying he did not want any more part of those dogs doing anything to him.
Max and Jill had stopped working, and I got them off a little ways. They were hanging in the back, just hoping for more action. I got in Charles’s truck and worked a barrier between the calf and the dogs, and Shane took the 4-wheeler and got up behind the calf and pushed him just enough to ease down the side of the corral until he got to the end gate. When he got to the end gate, he made a right hand turn just like a magnet drew him back to mama. We closed up the end gates and put him with the rest of the cows, and got everything loaded without a hitch. When we got the last one in the trailer and latched the gate, William’s friend Betty, who had also been helping, said, “You all sure know what you are doing.” I said to Betty, “I have caught a lot of cattle and handled a lot of cattle that were out over the last 50 years, but I always say dogs do 90 percent, horses do 9 percent, and I was just the 1 percent they let tag along with them.” You can say the dogs reminded this calf where the corral was this morning.
Max’s genetics, like with all animals, give him the will to want to.
Our breed Spotlight special sections are excellent forums to reach producers and cattle industry insiders in the Carolinas and throughout the Southeast. Advertisers also receive a special discount for placing their message in the Spotlight. The Carolina Cattle Connection
q DECEMBER 2021
PAGE 15
You Decide! By DR. MIKE WALDEN
William Neal Reynolds Distinguished Professor Emeritus N.C. State University You Decide: Will There Be A Permanent Labor Shortage? One of the surprises of the current economy is the labor shortage. Even though the unemployment rate is higher than it was prior to the pandemic, fewer people are looking for work. As a result, many businesses - from restaurants to trucking to construction and technology – have openings that are going unfilled. In North Carolina, there are approximately 90,000 fewer individuals in the labor market than before the pandemic. There’s a huge debate swirling over the causes of this situation, with fingers pointed at many possible reasons. Generous federal financial help, continued fear about COVID-19, uncertainty over schools for households with children, lack of affordable child care, and a surge in retirements are some of the causes offered. While there’s hope the lack of workers will be resolved as the pandemic ultimately disappears, some experts are not so optimistic. In fact, for years, many demographers have been warning of a permanent worker shortage in the coming decades. It may just be that the pandemic brought the shortage earlier. An important concept in demographics is the “replacement birth rate.” This is the birth rate needed to replace deaths and keep the population unchanged. If the actual birth rate is higher than the replacement rate, then the population increases. Demographers estimate the replacement birth rate is 2.1 children per woman. If the birth rate is lower than this replacement rate, then the population decreases. In the case of the latter, a declining population will eventually result in a declining labor force. The statistics show the U.S. birth rate has been steadily declining and is below the replacement rate. The latest birth rate for 2020 is 1.6, well below the replacement rate of 2.1. This means that, based on domestic births alone, the nation’s population would be declining. So far, immigration has prevented this, but there’s no assurance this will continue in the future. There’s a second issue at work causing concern about the future labor force. Participation by adults in looking for and taking jobs has still not recovered
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from the pandemic. But even before the pandemic, labor force participation of both women and men had been falling. There have been numerous ideas as to why, including the high cost of child care, the increase in incarcerations, the disinterest of many young men in working due to drug abuse and video gaming, and the long period of time many young people are in college. Hence, with the future of immigration uncertain, there is a real chance our national population could shrink. Even with immigration, it’s a fairly sure prediction that population growth will continue to slow. The big question is, how will this impact the economy? One possibility is that technology will fill the gap left by fewer workers. The capability of technology to perform human tasks has rapidly been increasing. Kiosks and tablets for ordering in restaurants, robots for storing and retrieving products in warehouses, and even machines for laying bricks and computers for building homes are just a few examples. Five years ago, two British economists created big headlines by estimating that almost half of occupations were susceptible to having machines replace people in performing work tasks. At the time of the British study, the worry was about lost jobs and what the displaced workers would do. Ironically, with the prospect of fewer future workers, labor saving technology may be exactly what is needed. There are also policies that can be used to increase the labor force participation of existing adults. Reducing the taxation of Social Security benefits for those still working but younger than the full retirement age could encourage more work from older adults. Encouraging the expansion of additional child care facilities could make it easier for parents who want to increase their work hours. A renewed focus on training incarcerated individuals in needed skills is a “winwin” for them and society. For individuals – especially younger individuals – who find formal education uninteresting and are distracted by video games and drugs, wider educational opportunities might be explored. Exposure to occupations in the trades -
The Carolina Cattle Connection q DECEMBER 2021
tasks that are more physically oriented rather than cognitively focused - as well as to skills that can be acquired with short term training might give many youths a productive and compelling future. While trends in the North Carolina birth rate track national trends, North Carolina’s situation does differ in one important way – in-migration. Inmigration measures people moving to the state from other states. For years, North Carolina has been a leader in in-migration, with many more people moving to the state compared to those leaving the state. Continuing to attract households and workers from other states is a way for North Carolina to avoid a worker shortage. Workers are a key part of our economy. In past decades, we assumed people would be easily available to fill
jobs. That time may be gone. How should we adjust to this new reality? You decide. You Decide: Can A Wage-Price Spiral Be Avoided? Who doesn’t like to be paid more? Maybe there are a few workers who are indifferent to their earnings, but I haven’t met them yet. Obviously, being paid more means workers can buy more of what they want for themselves, their families, and even the charities they support. The apparent good news is that worker earnings, as measured by their wage rate (earnings per hour), have been on the rise. Over the last year, average private sector wage rates have risen almost five percent in the nation and over six percent in North Carolina. This is the fastest increase in more than a decade. Of course, wage rates can rise for several reasons. One is as a reward for
N.C. Cattle Receipts, Trends, and Prices for the Month of OCTOBER 2021 Cattle Receipts: 20,297
•
Previous Month: 20,676
Feeder supply - 37% steers • 38% heifers • 25% bulls SLAUGHTER CLASSES
Avg. Wt. Price Cows - % Lean Breaker 1,369 $59.07 Boner 1,215 $59.17 Lean 1,046 $51.22
Bulls - Yield Grade 1-2
1,640
$86.86
FEEDER CLASSES
FEEDER STEERS (Medium and Large 1-2) Wt. Range Avg. Wt. CWT Avg. Price 400-450 424 $139.32 $590.72 450-500 475 $144.08 $684.38 500-550 522 $140.78 $734.87 550-600 571 $135.36 $772.91 600-650 621 $133.20 $827.17 650-700 667 $131.33 $875.97
FEEDER BULLS (Medium and Large 1-2) Wt. Range Avg. Wt. CWT Avg. Price 400-450 423 $144.91 $612.97 450-500 474 $134.86 $639.24 500-550 521 $129.50 $674.70 550-600 571 $122.12 $697.31 600-650 625 $112.76 $704.75 650-700 674 $108.12 $728.73
FEEDER HEIFERS (Medium and Large 1-2) Wt. Range Avg. Wt. CWT Avg. Price 400-450 423 $126.24 $534.00 450-500 473 $124.23 $587.61 500-550 522 $121.43 $633.86 550-600 571 $121.43 $693.37 600-650 622 $118.23 $735.39 650-700 667 $113.29 $755.64
Source: N.C. Dept. of Agriculture - USDA Market News Service, Raleigh, N.C. - 919-707-3156
working better. If a worker’s productivity – the fancy economics term for working better – increases, then the worker is more valuable to their employer, and a higher wage rate reflects that. Economic sectors or occupations that are experiencing growth often will lead to higher wage rates. The higher pay is a signal to attract more workers from other industries and jobs. Then, there is the important impact of inflation on wage rates. Inflation measures the change in the cost of living. When inflation is positive, the cost of living is rising. When inflation is negative (also called “deflation”), the cost of living falls. Positive inflation is the norm. The last time we had deflation was 2009, which was a recession year. Since inflation raises the cost of living, this means people need more money to achieve the same standard of living. For example, if inflation during the year is five percent, then people need four percent more income to maintain their buying. If income rose only two percent, then buying power would effectively drop by three percent. There are some situations where people receive an automatic adjustment
in their income due to inflation. The best example is Social Security benefits. Rather than being a fixed income, since 1975, Social Security benefits have been automatically adjusted each year to account for inflation. This is called a “cola,” or cost of living adjustment. In 2022, Social Security retirement benefits will be increased by 5.9 percent to account for the previous year’s price increases. Some – although not many – private sector contracts – have similar automatic “colas.” An important takeaway from this discussion is that workers should always compare changes in their earnings to the inflation rate. And if their earnings are rising less than inflation, then their buying power is actually going down. This is exactly the problem today. With the latest numbers showing the inflation rate during the last year at over six percent, inflation is wiping out most or all of the pay gains workers have seen. It’s understandable if workers lobby their bosses for more pay gains. Yet what’s best on the individual level might not be good for the aggregate level. The danger is the development of
– what economists call – a “wage-price spiral.” A wage-price spiral develops when inflation becomes expected and ingrained in the economic system. The spiral goes like this. Inflation occurs, and workers realize their standard of living is dropping. They push for pay raises to counteract inflation. Since wages and salaries account for 70 percent of a business’s costs, increasing worker pay prompts businesses to increase customer prices. Yet, the increase in prices sparks a new round of inflation, and the process continues. The economy is put on a continuous treadmill of higher and higher inflation. We had a wage-price spiral occur in the late 1970s, ultimately pushing the annual inflation rate to reach double digit rates. The spiral ended when the Federal Reserve significantly raised interest rates and slowed buying and spending but also plunged the economy into a serious recession. Some analysts see a similarity to today’s inflationary situation. They worry the idea of continuous inflationary pressures will become expected and thus will generate a self fulfilling prophecy
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of ongoing significant price increases. If this happens, it will take an extraordinary effort to put inflation back in the box. However, there is an alternative view that most of today’s inflation is related to temporary snags in the supply chain. Once these snags are eliminated – say these economists – inflation will subside. However, many analysts say this could take us well into next year. With its control over the money supply and interest rates, the Federal Reserve is also a key to containing inflation. During the hyperinflation of the 1970s, the Fed moved too slowly, and when they did change policy, it had to be big and bold, which – unfortunately – led to a recession. Everyone wants to protect themselves from inflation. We will naturally act in our own self-interests by asking for higher earnings to counter higher prices. But we need public institutions – like the Federal Reserve – to look at the big picture. We want to avoid a wage-price spiral and put the economy on a path to grow with much lower inflation. This is a tall order. Will it be met? You decide.
q DECEMBER 2021
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Introduction to Animal Identification Protecting North Carolina’s agriculture by safeguarding animal health and productivity is vital to the people of North Carolina. Healthy livestock is one component of providing the public with a safe, affordable, and wholesome food supply. Preventing the introduction of foreign animal diseases that harm both livestock and the livelihoods of producers also creates economic stability and opportunity. While farmers and ranchers work hard to protect their animals and their livelihoods, there is no guarantee their animals will be spared from disease, as disease events can
happen accidentally or intentionally. Rapid response systems minimize economic impact when diseases enter this country and disrupt the movement of livestock. Summary of Animal Disease Traceability Rule As a proactive move, the N.C. Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services has established the Animal Disease Traceability Rule. This rule will help rapidly trace animals in the event of a potential livestock disease outbreak. This will also position producers to take advantage of any possible export markets.
PREMISES REGISTRATION Primary Contact: Farm Name: Secondary Contact: Address:
Official ID Required For: • Beef cattle 18+ months of age at the change of ownership and/or entering interstate movement • All dairy cattle • Cattle and bison used in rodeo, show, exhibition, or recreational event Approved Official ID • Official electronic identification (840 tags) number (AIN) manager or distributer • Brucellosis vaccination orange ear tags distributed by the North Carolina State Veterinarian or USDA APHIS/VS will be accepted. What Can I Use the Tags On? The tags are available for use in breeding cattle, including replacement females, brood cows, or breeding bulls in either beef or dairy animals. The tags are NOT for use in feeder calves. Are There Any Requirements to Get the Tags? No, if you have a Premises ID for your farm. The tags are assigned to your farm number, but if a Premises ID is needed, then please fill out the information in the included form, and a Premises ID can be assigned to your farm. Electronic ID (EID) • Use of electronic ID (EID) tags and other forms of permanent identification
NEWS
County: Email: Phone: Phone: Operation Type - Please circle one of the following:
Clinic
Exhibition
Producer Unit/Farm
Premises Address (if different):
N.C. Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services 1030 Mail Service Center Raleigh, NC 27699-1030 Phone - 919-707-3275 Fax - 919-733-2277 ncfarmid@ncagr.gov
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allow for the rapid trace of animals in the event of a potential livestock disease outbreak. • EID tags may also be used as an onfarm management tool. How do I get FREE RFID Tags? Free RFID Tags are available by contacting the NCDA&CS-Veterinary Division at ncfarmid@ncagr.gov.
The Carolina Cattle Connection q DECEMBER 2021
2022-2023 Scholarship Applications The N.C. Cattlemen’s Foundation is now receiving applications for undergraduate scholarships and graduate student travel funding for the 2022-2023 academic year. This is the fourth year the foundation will award scholarships to students who are North Carolina residents. However, they are still eligible if they are attending college in another state. The applications for both scholarships and graduate student travel are available on the main webpage of the N.C. Cattlemen’s Association.
We encourage you to use the online application from www.nccattle.com; however, printable versions are available to assist you in gathering information for your applications. All applications are due by January 15, 2022. Applications will be reviewed and recommended for NCCF board approval at its meeting in mid-February. Awards will be announced after that meeting. Questions regarding the application process can be addressed to Dr. Roger Crickenberger at 919-464-5636 or at cricks4@mac.com.
Baxter Black
On the edge of common sense The Dreaded Blue Box
I had just finished loading 184 seven foot steel T-posts, old ones, by the way, in my pickup and was unloading a mere 24 bales of hay from the front section of my gooseneck stock trailer. It was a hot, humid afternoon in early fall when the dead branches begin to stick out of the cottonwood greenery, and the garden starts goin’ to heck, and no one cares. I could almost smell the cumin from Ramon’s #6 Combination Plate being distilled in my sweat from lunch earlier. Then I saw the blue box. The dreaded blue box. It was still in the stock trailer. It needed to be moved. The blue box is a metal toolbox I have had since I bought my first set of “made in America” side cutters, thinking they would last longer. I have now realized that all side cutters have the sharpness longevity of fresh fruit. They should be thrown out about as often as you empty the trash barrel in the shop. Anyway, over the years, the blue box has become my chain holder. It will hold four or five good log chains. I have always said that a hundred pounds of salt weigh more than a hundred pounds of anything else. But a 10x10x18 inch metal toolbox full of log chains is harder to carry than a sheet of plywood in a hurricane.
There are other things that can stimulate a similar sinking feeling, e.g., the same cow prolapsing for the third time, somebody commenting that my horse seems to be favoring his left front, or the phone ringing in the deep of night. I don’t know exactly what it is about the old blue toolbox that I dread. I’ve heaved it, moved it, loaded it, dropped it, pushed it, and cussed it through a lifetime succession of jobs and homes, horses, and kids, and ups and downs. Maybe it’s not because it’s heavier than God’s own anvil, clumsier than an ostrich in a Port-a-Potty, or uglier than a ‘58 Buick. No, maybe it’s because I realize it’s gonna outlive me by a long time. By its earthly clock, I’m just a temporary passerby, while it will still be here when men are walking on Pluto. I have thoughts of storing my chains in a gunny sack, takin’ the ole toolbox to the dump, and reestablishing the peckin’ order in my life. But every time I get as far as step one, I see it layin’ there like a concrete loaf of bread, like a 200 pound rattlesnake, and the dread sweeps over me in a wave. So, I let it lay or move it if I have to. I’ve come to realize there are some things you just can’t do anything about.
Regular copy deadline is DECEMBER 5 for the JANUARY issue Spotlight material is due DECEMBER 1 for the JANUARY issue The Carolina Cattle Connection
q DECEMBER 2021
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The Carolina Cattle Connection q DECEMBER 2021
How to Face Evolving Demands By JESSICA WESSON Certified Angus Beef® Sustainability doesn’t keep Kim Stackhouse-Lawson, Ph.D., up at night. It’s how investments skyrocketed last year, urging companies to do something about it. And not just major companies, said Stackhouse-Lawson, director of AgNext at Colorado State University (CSU). There’s a trickle down effect all the way to cattle country. Everyone is paying attention. Globally, companies invested more than $30 billion in sustainability initiatives in 2020, and publicly traded companies and banks are quickly moving to capitalize, Stackhouse-Lawson said during the 16th Annual Feeding Quality Forum on August 25 in Fort Collins, Colorado. “These investments outperformed traditional stock. There will be an influx of dollars that enters this sustainability space quickly, and it’s going to be top down driven.” Consumers care, too. They want to know they are agents of change within sustainability and environment conversations, she said. “Some 75 percent of millennials believe that their investments can influence climate change, and 84 percent of them believe their investments can help lift people out of poverty,” StackhouseLawson said. “The Gen Z group is coming up now, and they care too.” Nearly all the major food processing companies are making net zero commitments to decrease their carbon emissions and footprint in the next couple of decades. While their definitions vary, one thing remains constant. “What I want you guys to know is that when a company commits to net zero, it 100 percent includes their entire value chain all the way down to the kernel of corn,” she said. “And even the fertilizer that’s going to go on that kernel of corn.” For some certified programs, that may even affect what cattle can eat. Cattle producers do a good job raising more beef with fewer resources, but more progress can be made, she said.
North Carolina Angus Association ANGUS MEANS BUSINESS
“You have probably heard the industry and scientists, me included, say that we have gotten better over time,” Stackhouse-Lawson explained. “And we have, but it depends on the lens in which you look through. We are efficient, but absolute emissions are still increasing.” Ranchers have a good story to tell, but more information is needed for truly effective communication, according to Stackhouse-Lawson. “The first thing I think is important to acknowledge when you talk about sustainability is that emotion and science are on equal footing,” StackhouseLawson said. “If you put them in a head-to-head race, emotion wins in the sustainability space nearly every time.” The narrative may be polarizing and complex, but she remains hopeful. “We’re behind in research. We don’t have a good start here for the supply chain, and there’s zero federal funding to look at greenhouse gas emissions from beef cattle,” Stackhouse-Lawson said. “We’re really hoping that begins to change.” StackhouseLawson is leading the AgNext team at CSU to expand innovation for real time solutions for sustainability in animal agriculture and will start research efforts this fall. Until there is more quantifiable data, she suggested farmers and ranchers focus on genetic and management efficiencies. Choose and breed cattle that can do more with less. If cows in the herd are not producing, culling individual animals may need to be considered. She also said land management was another important area to focus on. “An easy example is the integration of livestock into cropping systems,” Stackhouse-Lawson said. “When we graze corn stubble, winter wheat, cover crops or something like that, the land is providing us a double win. We can also get a carbon benefit when we rotate those animals in.” Most cattlemen are already on the right track.
Backed by the world’s largest and most reliable genetic evaluation program. Registered Angus genetics deliver better calving ease, more growth, and superior marbling. 455 GORE FAMILY ANGUS Mark & Lori Gore Tabor City 702-401-8005 455goreangus@gmail.com www.455farms.com 4K FARMS/TARHEEL ANGUS Richard D. Kirkman, DVM Siler City 919-742-5500 rdk.cefa@gmail.com BACK CREEK Joe & Robin Hampton Mt. Ulla 704-880-2488 (Joe); 704-880-3572 (Robin) robinbackcreek@att.net Facebook: Back Creek Angus BILTMORE ESTATE Kyle Mayberry - Manager Asheville 828-768-1956 livestock@biltmore.com www.biltmorelivestock.com FOUR S FARMS Kim & Connie and Jason & Robin Starnes Luther Lyerly - Manager Salisbury 704-640-5875 kim-4sfarms@carolina.rr.com GENTRY HOMEPLACE ANGUS Howard & Donna Gentry King 336-413-6698 whgentry@windstream.net GRAGG FARMS Paul, Chris, & David Gragg Boone 828-268-4136 (Paul); 828-268-4137 (Chris) 828-268-4135 (David) H&H FARMS Buddy & Jennifer Hamrick - Owners Bly Hamrick - Manager Boiling Springs 704-472-1912 jennham@bellsouth.net HARWARD SISTERS Brooke, Marcie, & Mattie Harward Richfield 704-322-9770 (Brooke) 704-322-5201 (Marcie); 704-322-0831 (Mattie) harwardsisters@gmail.com www.harwardsisters.com HILL ANGUS FARM Dr. Gary M. Hill Hendersonville 229-848-3695 gmhill@uga.edu JACK KNOB FARMS Karl, Janet, & Logan Gillespie Franklin 828-371-2220 karl@jackknobfarms.com www.jackknobfarms.com
bundylane@hughes.net laneangusbeef@gmail.com www.laneangusbeef.com PANTHER CREEK FARMS John C. Smith, Jr. Pink Hill 252-526-1929 JohnSmith3982@embarqmail.com S&J Farms Steven & Julie Lung Nathan Lung - Manager Carthage 910-947-3414 sandjfarms2013@gmail.com SMITH CREEK ANGUS FARM Marty & Lynne Rooker Norlina 252-213-1553 mrooker@mrookerlaw.com SPRINGFIELD ANGUS Phil Goodson Alex Askew Louisburg 919-880-9062 (Phil) 910-260-2899 (Alex) philgoodson2@gmail.com www.springfieldangus.com TRIPLE LLL ANGUS Greg Little Monroe 704-219-1294 greg.little@ATImetals.com VANDEMARK ANGUS Keaton & Janie Vandemark Spring Hope 252-885-0210 keaton@vandemarkfarms.com WINDY HILL FARMS, LLC Michael A. Moss Will Moss - Manager Ramseur 336-549-0070 (Mike); 336-460-7451 (Will) michaelmoss@rtmc.net WINSLOW GENETICS Ben & Kathleen Winslow Halifax 252-578-5487 bensbulls@gmail.com WOOD ANGUS FARM, LLC Russell Wood Willow Spring 919-275-4397 rwood4400@gmail.com www.woodangus.com
Sharon Rogers
NCAA Executive Secretary 336-583-9630 Email: ncaa.sec@gmail.com Website: www.ncangus.org
LANE ANGUS Roger & Bundy Lane Bundy Lane - Manager Gates 252-398-7705 (Bundy); 252-398-7719 (Miranda) 252-357-1279 (Office)
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The Carolina Cattle Connection q DECEMBER 2021
Certified Angus Beef News Meeting Demand with Better Beef in 2021. Fiscal Year closes strong for Certified Angus Beef. Growth happens in small increments. When it comes to measuring success for Certified Angus Beef (CAB), it’s measured one pound at a time. The second highest sales year on record, global sales totaled 1.215 billion pounds to end fiscal year 2021. Up 3.4 percent or 40 million pounds from 2020, this is the sixth consecutive year the brand surpassed one billion pounds of sales across 54 countries. “This brand was built one pound at a time, one partner at a time, and we value them all, because it takes a community to move this brand forward and to make it work for everybody,” says John Stika, Certified Angus Beef president. Better Beef, Better Cattle - Both beef demand and Certified Angus Beef brand acceptance rates are at all time highs, creating a formula for record setting improvements. “There are a lot of exciting and optimistic things when we look at the success and progress our partners have had this year,” Stika says. “Demand doesn’t solve all the problems we currently have in the beef industry, but it does underpin the foundation of success and recovery that many are experiencing in their business right now.” Growth in demand requires more Angus cattle raised to the highest standards, and cattlemen met the challenge. A record 36.8 percent of all Angus influenced cattle met the brand’s
ten specifications in fiscal year 2021. That’s more than 5.9 million black cattle earning an average of $50 per head from CAB grid premiums. Each year, packers pay producers nearly $92 million for brand qualifying cattle or $1.7 million per week. “This year proved that cattle producers are as focused as ever on meeting consumer expectations,” says Bruce Cobb, executive vice president of production, for the brand. “Through 2020, acceptance rates for the brand established new record benchmarks and that momentum carried through 2021 as producers continued to increase the production of certified carcasses.” Bringing Home the Beef - It’s an entire community across the supply chain that moves CAB forward. A stabilizing anchor for brand sales, retail proved extremely steady sales year round. Shoppers looked for quality in the grocery store and kept cooking at home, even as pandemic mandates lifted. Licensed partners held on to most of last year’s record-setting 602 million pounds, closing 2021 at 600 million pounds of sales. “As we saw the foodservice and hospitality sector begin to open up, we were hoping the pent up demand we had heard so much about would materialize. And it has,” Stika says. “Demand is strong for high quality beef.” Finishing the year up 13.3 percent, domestic foodservice brand partners recovered 43 percent of the 100 million pounds forfeited during the pandemic.
Canada and Japan remain at the top of international sales, playing a large role in the 7.8 percent year over year increase. The next four largest markets — South Korea, Mexico, Taiwan, and Hong Kong — grew by an average of 10.6 percent last year, helping reclaim international business. “We have continued to be extremely optimistic and believe that sales outside of the U.S. will only continue to grow and become healthier moving forward,” Stika says. Value added product sales grew 23.5 percent in 2021, setting a record of 38.3 million pounds. Smoked brisket, fajita meat, and fresh corned beef were a few of the top sellers as people looked for labor and cost saving solutions. Celebrating seven record months during the fiscal year, July took the top spot with four million pounds of value added products sold.
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Adding to the record setting year, Certified Angus Beef brand Prime sales reached 37.3 million pounds for the first time, a 14.8 percent increase in 2021. “Prime is a progressive growth opportunity as we continue to see quality resonate with more and more consumers domestically and around the globe,” Stika says. Looking forward to 2022, he says he expects the brand to only get better, one pound at a time. About the Certified Angus Beef ® brand. World renowned for its exceptional quality and generous marbling, the Certified Angus Beef brand is the original brand of premium beef. Created in 1978, it is still owned today by family ranchers who are determined to bring the best Angus beef to the table. Ten exacting standards ensure superior taste and tenderness in every bite. Learn more at www.CertifiedAngusBeef.com.
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ANGUS NEWS Angus breeders gather for a legendary weekend. Fort Worth hosts 2021 National Angus Convention and Trade Show. The American Angus Association capped off a successful 2021 National Angus Convention and Trade Show packed with passion, innovation, and achievement. The three day event attracted 1,600 attendees and nearly 100 trade show vendors. “This year’s Convention was a tremendous success,” said Mark McCully, American Angus Association chief executive officer. “We were so grateful to have our Angus family gathered together in person again to celebrate what we’ve accomplished and where we’re headed. The breed’s current reputation is a testament to the collective efforts of hard-working producers and vast industry advancements.” Each day was loaded with informational sessions, networking events, and wall to wall trade show vendors. On day one, Angus enthusiasts had a chance to partake in various tours such as an in-depth look at nearby Angus operation, Gabriel Ranch, and a cowboy culture tour of the Fort Worth Stockyards. Cattlemen and women also attended the Beef Blitz tour hosted by the Certified Angus Beef brand. They toured several Fort Worth eateries that partner with the brand to provide top-of-the-line Angus beef to consumers. Throughout the convention were educational Angus University workshops. Each session was hosted by an industry expert and was geared to inform cattlemen and women about topics ranging from AAA Log In and improving the bottom line to the importance of genetic advancement. For the American Angus Auxiliary, the convention kicked off their 70 th Anniversary celebration. The organization hosted several events, including its Annual Meeting, the 70 th Anniversary Kickoff Reception, the Annual Auxiliary Breakfast, and the Miss American Angus competition. Leadership Panel - A leadership panel with representatives for each entity of the Association reported on the previous fiscal year’s successes and what the future holds. The over-arching theme of the panel’s conversation was the importance of the Association’s membership and how to best provide
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tools and opportunities for them and their commercial cattlemen customers. Kelli Retallick-Riley, president of Angus Genetics Inc. (AGI), spoke about the strides in genomic data information that will better the current tools AGI offers members. She also stressed the economic value of genomics from a maternal standpoint. Combining these factors will allow the Association to make improvements to better serve its members. Brett Spader, president of Angus Media SM, celebrated producing more new sale catalogs than ever before. He explained a new technology called “extended reality,” allowing cattlemen to use their mobile devices to bring print media alive similar to “virtual reality.” Spader discussed new market research being conducted in January, giving insight to producers on their buyer audience. John Stika, president of Certified Angus Beef (CAB), discussed the importance of simplifying the complex information consumers must sort through. He shared a new advertising campaign for the holidays, emphasizing, “If it’s not Certified, it’s not the best.” A report from Thomas Marten, executive director of the Angus Foundation, rounded out the panel. He touched on the growth of the Talon internship program, stressed the importance of mentors for young people, and looked ahead to a year of impacting the lives of Angus youth. American Angus Association Awards Dinner and Reception - The highly anticipated American Angus Association Awards Dinner and Reception recognized several distinguished people. Honored as Angus Heritage Foundation inductees were Billy Maples of Alabama; Frank Schiefelbein of Minnesota; Bob Funk of Oklahoma; Margaret Dreesmann of Missouri; and Charles A. McPeake of Georgia. Taking home the Roll of Victory Show Heifer of the Year award was Seldon Rest Sandy 9080, owned by Suter Clark of Virginia. The award for Roll of Victory Show Bull of the Year was Silveiras Forbes 8088, owned by Chris and Sharee Sankey of Kansas; Silveira Brothers in California; and Rockin S Ranch Inc. in California. Concluding the Roll of Victory recipients was Breeder of the Year awarded to Express Ranches in Oklahoma.
The Carolina Cattle Connection q DECEMBER 2021
During the dinner reception, Certified Angus Beef (CAB) recognized three recipients of producer awards. Achieving the Seedstock Commitment to Excellence award was Yon Family Farms in South Carolina. Honored for the Ambassador Award category was Pfeiffer Angus Farms in Oklahoma. Finally, topping the Sustainability Award category was Bradley 3 Ranch in Texas. Mary Wood of North Carolina was named 2021-2022 Miss American Angus. 138 th Annual Convention of Delegates - Highlighting the final day of the convention was the 138th Annual Convention of Delegates. Jim Brinkley of Missouri was re-elected to a second term of the Board of Directors. Paul Bennett of Virginia, John Dickinson of California, Greg McCurry of Kansas, and Loran Wilson of Indiana were elected to serve their first three year term. Serving in chairman positions for the year are President and Chairman of the Board – Jerry Connealy of Nebraska; Vice President and Vice Chair of the Board – Chuck Grove of Virginia; and Treasurer – Barry Pollard of Oklahoma. Angus breeders inspired to achieve at National Angus Convention and Trade Show. Speaker and former U.S. Navy SEAL CDR Rorke Denver delivers achievement keynote. The American Angus Association members celebrated Angus passion, innovation, and achievement at the 2021 National Angus Convention and Trade Show. In accordance with the Convention theme, the event featured three keynote addresses highlighting each of these concepts for attendees. The Association welcomed Rorke Denver, former U.S. Navy SEAL Commander, to address achievement and the role it plays in the pursuit of progress. Whether it’s securing higher premiums, maximizing performance in the pasture, or succeeding in the
show ring, Angus breeders have made achievement a priority since the beginning. Denver, who has run every phase of training for U.S. Navy SEALs prior to starring in the film “Act of Valor,” is also no stranger to the desire for constant improvement. “Every great team will find a way to constantly improve in an elite environment,” Denver said. “They’re always trying to figure out a way to get a little bit better.” Denver encouraged attendees to consider ways to position themselves optimally for what they hope to achieve, relating it to his experiences training for the battlefield. “If you can make a big leap that’s great, but it’s often small measures of improvement that make teams better,” Denver said. “It’s the idea of asking ourselves, ‘is there anything more I can do? Is there a better place I can fight from or think from?’” Throughout its history, the Angus breed has proven its dedication to achieving new feats, even in times of adversity. Denver acknowledged that those in the beef industry have what it takes to continue seeking out opportunities for progress. He shared his appreciation for the values of those in agriculture, which resonate closely with his own experiences. “It’s not hard talking to folks that have the grit and toughness of this organization,” Denver said. “People in agriculture tend to be my favorite audiences, because it’s just folks that care about all the things we care about, so it makes for a special event when I can be at something like this.” Angus breeders learn the power of embracing innovation. Jeff DeGraff discusses accepting change in the beef industry. Profound Angus passion, embracing innovative objectives,
celebrating milestone achievements – all themes displayed at the 2021 National Angus Convention and Trade Show through legendary keynote speakers. Jeff DeGraff, advisor to Fortune 500 companies and a professor at the Ross School of Business at the University of Michigan, delivered the innovation keynote address, driving the message of welcoming and accepting unfamiliar concepts. “I want people to understand that innovation is more than technology,” DeGraff said. “It really has to do with understanding your blind spots, the opportunities that you’re not seeing, surrounding yourself with people who don’t think the same way you do to exploit some of these interesting opportunities that are often overlooked.” In the beef industry, the idea of adapting current practices to improve future operations serves as a debated topic. DeGraff explained that for a business to be successful long term, it must innovate, and to innovate, change must occur.
“In order to grow, you have to do something new or different, right,” DeGraff said. “So the notion is, it’s not a question of if you’re going to innovate, the question is how and when you’re going to innovate.” DeGraff challenged Angus breeders and all agriculturalists to be leaders of industry progress. He stated if people in the industry avoid innovation, someone else will take the reins. “The real question is this, will the incumbents in this industry be the ones who lead us,” DeGraff said. “Or will the nascent, or startups, in this industry be the one who lead the incumbents? Either way, you’re going to innovate. It’s inevitable.” Angus Breeders Discuss Balance as a Tool for Longevity. How can breeders balance operational goals with long term goals in mind? Geography creates different challenges for operations across the country. Even with those obstacles,
breeders achieve success year after year. During the 2021 Angus Convention Genetics Symposium sponsored by NEOGEN, Kelli Retallick-Riley, president of Angus Genetics Inc. (AGI), moderated a panel of Angus breeders that represented diversity but were consistent in maintaining the longevity of their operation. Gordon Stucky of Stucky Ranch, Adam Sawyer of A&B Angus, and Scott Pohlman of Pohlman Cattle Company shared perspectives, resources, and ideas on how they create a plan and stick to it. As panelists shared their own breeding objectives, all mentioned they focus on meeting the needs of their customers. Sawyer shared how ninety percent of their bull buyers derive their income from the cattle business, so they look at many traits to suit multiple needs. Sawyer said, “The female is very important to us, but we also have a set of criteria for carcass traits that we don’t go below to stay on track with industry standards.” Hailing from the panhandle of Texas, Pohlman shared his perspective of raising cattle on drought prone land with minimal grass. He mentioned how important it is to not get caught up with the “latest and greatest top selling herd sire.” He knows some of his customers won’t be able to capture the full genetic potential of that sire in the environment they live in. Pohlman believes in focusing on the foundational traits long term. Aside from balanced breeding objectives and balanced traits, some may argue about the definition of balance. Sawyer defines balance as an all encompassing term, where cattlemen can find everything they need to have breeding cattle that will work in a particular environment. Stucky believes a balanced cow herd has no holes. Panelists also highlighted the importance of data collection, especially since the American Angus Association recently surpassed the one million genotype mark. Coupling genomics and EPDs has allowed Sawyer and his operation to have more confidence in the data. For Stucky, submitting data through Angus Herd Improvement Records (AHIR) and MaternalPlus allows them to evaluate their whole herd every year. The data assists them in sorting their herd to help them determine the direction they want to go. “The future of data collection will surely be better. We just have to be patient,” Stucky said. Finding balance will continue to improve as Retallick-Riley shared the research being developed at AGI. However, she reminded the membership that the work is never done. There is
always more to learn. To learn more about finding balance in your operation, visit Angus University at www.angus.org/university to access beef industry tools and resources that will point you in the right direction. The 2022 National Angus Convention and Trade Show will be held on November 5 -7 in Salt Lake City, Utah. For news and further information about this year’s Convention, visit www. AngusConvention.com.
The Carolina Cattle Connection
American Angus Association completes a successful fiscal year. Association achieves milestones in 2021. The American Angus Association concluded a successful fiscal year, packed with member wide achievements and industry leading advances. The year marked the seventh consecutive year of more than 300,000 registrations, with an
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q DECEMBER 2021
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Angus News continued from the previous page additional 143,305 recorded transfers. The fiscal year, which concluded September 30, tallied a grand total of 27,560 regular and junior memberships combined. Returning to normalcy after a year of cancellations and uncertainty, production sales experienced record breaking averages with a 27.4 percent increase in female sale averages and a 13.6 percent increase in bull sale averages. The Angus family hit new levels and historic records. “This business has changed in such a huge way in a relatively short period of time,” says Mark McCully, CEO of the Association. “When you think about what we’re delivering to the consumer today, we’re delivering the highest quality product that our industry has ever delivered. In addition, we have more tools, better ways to describe feeder cattle and a progressive membership that has their eye on the future.” Angus Genetics Inc. (AGI), a subsidiary of the American Angus Association, announced new leadership by appointing Kelli Retallick-Riley as president. AGI celebrated a milestone accomplishment of one million genotypes, only possible with the hard work of Angus breeders who are willing to invest in the technology. The use of these genotypes allows enhanced accuracy and predictability of difficult to measure traits. AGI continued work on tools that improve the profitability of the beef cattle industry, including collecting additional data for the hair shed research expected progeny difference (EPD) and introducing new udder scoring guidelines. One thing that remained constant this year, as it has since its inception in 1883, is the Association’s dedication to its membership. This year Association members surpassed 20 million registrations, a feat that ensures the demand and value of registered Angus cattle industry wide. In efforts to keep focus on maternal traits and longevity, the Angus Herd Improvement Records program implemented the Inventory Reporting option. This simplified reporting method gives breeders the option to record difficult to reach traits while maintaining accurate herd records. Inventory reporting gives full credit to high performing females, ensures a complete record of the herd, and provides insight on economically relevant traits. The recorded traits then serve as decision making tools for both commercial and seedstock producers. As a cutting edge source of information, Angus Media SM created
PAGE 26
the “Feeder Calf Marketing Guide,” a resource for commercial cattlemen using registered Angus bulls. The publication aided producers in their marketing decisions by providing tips, in-depth explanations of AngusLink SM and the Genetic Merit Scorecard, commercial directories, and information on all process verified programs offered through the Association’s Commercial Programs department. With its goal of providing cost effective and quality marketing services to Angus breeders, Angus Media produced a record 491 sale books and 424 breeder websites. The Certified Angus Beef (CAB) brand affirmed its quality standard with another year of exceeding consumer expectations. Combined focus on genetics and management led to a record breaking 36.8 percent brand acceptance rate. Cattlemen earned $1.7 million per week in carcass based premiums, and CAB marked its second largest sales year on record at 1.215 billion pounds. It implemented a #RestaurantChallenge to support the struggling restaurant industry and worked with more than 19,000 licensed partners in 54 countries this year. With the value of Angus cattle consistently increasing, the Association configured its new advertising campaign to emphasize the power of Angus. With the confusion of black hided cattle in the marketplace, the campaign illustrates the confidence cattlemen can put in the power of EPD data, documented pedigrees, and marketing programs with the purchase of a registered Angus. As a nod to George Grant’s arrival to North America with Angus genetics on May 17, 1873, the Angus Foundation hosted the inaugural Angus Day of Giving on May 17. The fundraising event included a series of mail, video, and social media outreaches to promote the lasting effects of the Angus family. The campaign raised $14,000 of unrestricted funds, acquired more than 25 new donors, and reached over 59,000 prospective donors. To view the 2021 Annual Report with in-depth information about the year, visit angus.org/pub/annualreport. The 2022 Angus Internship Applications are Now Open. Five hands-on internship opportunities are available to college students. Learning by doing has proven to be the best form of experience. Applications are now open for college age students to apply for the American Angus Association, AngusMedia, and Angus Genetics Inc. (AGI) 2022 summer internships. These ten week internship programs provide
The Carolina Cattle Connection q DECEMBER 2021
a unique, hands-on experience that will encourage growth and instill confidence both professionally and personally. “I definitely wouldn’t have wanted to spend my summer any other way,” said Riley Reep, 2021 communications intern. “The culture at the Association is like none other, and they treat you as one of their own.” Not only are these internships valuable in helping students build industry specific skills, but they provide participants an opportunity to extend their
professional network. Angus interns are assigned responsibilities and guided to help ensure success by allowing them to take ownership of projects. The five internships being offered are: Angus Media - Two writing intensive opportunities — one focused on the seedstock audience and one focused on the commercial audience — offer the chance to participate in producing publications, including the Angus Journal, Angus Beef Bulletin, Angus Beef Bulletin EXTRA, Angus Journal Daily, editorial websites
Carolina Video and Load Lot Monthly Summary (Weeks ending OCTOBER 5 & OCTOBER 19, 2021)
Carolina Video and Load Lot Monthly Summary of Mid-Atlantic Cattle Sales ending Tuesday, OCTOBER 5, 2021, and Mid-Atlantic Cattle Sales ending Tuesday, OCTOBER 19, 2021. All cattle in this report are located in North Carolina and South Carolina. Prices FOB the farm or local scale and many weighed with a 1-2 percent shrink and sold with a 5-10¢ per pound slide on the heavy side only.
Cattle Receipts: 2,111
Last Month: 4,465
Feeders made up 100 percent of the offering. The feeder supply included 70 percent steers and 30 percent heifers. Nearly 10 percent of the run weighed over 600 pounds. Head totals are based on load lot estimate of 49,500 pounds. Head 50 16 72 202 37 74 26 125 61 63 123 59 30 180 59 57
Wt. Range 615-615 650-650 675-675 700-735 700-700 700-725 760-760 775-785 790-790 775-775 780-790 825-825 820-820 800-825 220-820 850-850
FEEDER STEERS (Medium 1-2) Avg. Wt. Price Range Avg. Price 615 $145.75 $145.75 650 $133.00 $133.00 675 $155.00 $155.00 718 $151.00-$151.75 $151.42 700 $155.25 $155.25 712 $143.25-$155.00 $148.81 760 $146.00 $146.00 780 $160.25-$161.25 $160.75 790 $159.00 $159.00 775 $141.50 $141.50 785 $145.25-$150.00 $147.61 825 $160.00 $160.00 820 $142.00 $142.00 813 $157.75-$162.50 $160.36 820 $145.00 $145.00 850 $137.25 $137.25
Head 123 61 51
Wt. Range 790-790 790-790 950-950
FEEDER STEERS (Medium & Large 1-2) Avg. Wt. Price Range Avg. Price 790 $160.25 $160.25 790 $151.25 $151.25 950 $130.50 $130.50
Head 30 14 64 71 44 72 36 35 \ 125 31 61 59
Wt. Range 600-600 600-600 680-680 680-680 665-665 675-675 700-700 700-700 765-780 780-780 800-800 825-825
Delivery Split Loads Split Loads Natural Split Loads Split Loads Natural Value Added Value Added Current Natural Split Loads Value Added Current
Delivery Value Added Current
FEEDER HEIFERS (Medium 1-2) Avg. Wt. Price Range Avg. Price Delivery 600 $133.75 $133.75 Split Loads 600 $125.00 $125.00 Split Loads 680 $139.00 $139.00 Guaranteed Open 680 $141.50 $141.50 Natural 665 $135.25 $135.25 Split Loads 675 $150.00 $150.00 Value Added 700 $145.25 $145.25 Split Loads 700 $147.00 $147.00 Split Loads 772 $136.00-$136.25 $136.13 Guaranteed Open 780 $134.00 $134.00 Split Loads 800 $128.50 $128.50 Guaranteed Open 825 $146.00 $146.00 Value Added
Source: N.C. Dept. of Agriculture - USDA Market News Service, Raleigh, N.C. - 919-707-3156
and social media. The internship can be tailored to the intern’s strengths, but many duties can be anticipated, including traveling to industry events. Experience in news and feature writing, editing, and photography are strongly suggested. Communications - From print stories to video scripts, photography, graphic design, and more, the communications intern will truly gain valuable agricultural communications experience. Applicants should have strong writing and design skills and have completed coursework in news and feature writing, editing, and design. Experience in photography, video, and social media is beneficial but not required. Events and Education - The intern will assist in planning and executing youth events hosted by the National Junior Angus Association (NJAA), including preparations, correspondence, and coordination for junior shows and events. Applicants should be self starters, detail oriented, and outgoing with the ability to work well with others. Livestock and event planning experience is a plus, but not required. Travel to the 2022 National Junior Angus Show (NJAS), Leaders Engaged in Angus Development (LEAD) Conference, and
other events is expected. AGI - Students pursuing their master’s degree or Ph.D. in animal breeding and genetics are encouraged to apply for the AGI summer internship. The intern will have the opportunity to work with one of the world’s largest beef genomic databases. The internship will focus on research that involves data analysis; therefore, candidates should have experience in analyzing animal breeding data sets and genomic data. Students who wish to apply for an internship should upload their résumé, cover letter, and references to the career center at www.angus.org/careers by January 10, 2022. Visit www.angus.org/ careers for full internship descriptions and requirements. Angus Foundation raises over $20,000 at 2021 National Angus Convention & Trade Show. Live and silent auctions raise unrestricted funds to support education, youth, and research. To kick off the 2021 National Angus Convention and Trade Show, the Angus Foundation hosted a welcome reception for convention attendees on November 5. The event featured live and silent auction offerings to raise unrestricted funds to use in furthering the Foundation’s mission of
supporting education, youth, and research within the Angus breed. Proceeds from the event will support scholarships, youth conferences, and research projects in the coming year. “The generosity of so many great donors at the welcome reception sets the path forward as we launch into a new fiscal year and prepare to fund many worthy programs in 2022,” said Thomas Marten, Angus Foundation executive director. National Junior Angus Board chairman, Alexandria Cozzitorto, spoke at the reception on behalf of the countless Angus youth who have been impacted by the Angus Foundation’s mission. “I am proud to be a product of the generosity of Angus Foundation donors,” said Cozzitorto. “We’re grateful for your belief in the next generation.” The auctions grossed $20,070 in proceeds from the silent and live offerings. The high selling live auction lot was the HeliBacon Hog Hunt, selling for $12,000 to Pleasant Valley Farms. Topping the silent auction was the Men’s Custom Pure Beaver Hat, donated by Greeley Hat Works, Inc. and selling to Mike Mayfield. Through generous donations, the auction offered an impressive variety of items for Angus
The Carolina Cattle Connection
enthusiasts to consider as they enjoyed an evening of networking and Certified Angus Beef brand hors d’oeuvres. About the Angus Foundation. Established as a 501(c)(3) organization in 1980, the Angus Foundation remains focused on its mission to support Angus education, youth, and research. The organization has distributed more than $3.1 million in youth scholarships since 1998 and has also invested more than $1.3 million in beef cattle research in the past decade. For more information, contact the Angus Foundation at 816-383-5100. Angus Means Business. The American Angus Association ® is the nation’s largest beef breed organization, serving more than 25,000 members across the United States, Canada, and several other countries. It’s home to an extensive breed registry that grows by more than 300,000 animals each year. The Association also provides programs and services to farmers, ranchers, and others who rely on Angus to produce quality genetics for the beef industry and quality beef for consumers. For more information about Angus cattle and the American Angus Association, visit www.angus.org.
q DECEMBER 2021
PAGE 27
Mary Wood Crowned 2021-2022 Miss American Angus North Carolina native selected to serve the Angus breed in the upcoming year. The sparkling crown, the bold, red jacket, the crystal studded, black hided sash — all staples of the iconic Miss American Angus. Mary Wood was crowned Miss American Angus at the 2021 National Angus Convention and Trade Show in Fort Worth, Tex., on November 7. Like many, Wood’s Angus story is centered around family. “My family first got involved in the Angus breed when my brother was nine and first started showing Angus cattle,” Wood said. “As soon as I turned eight, I was showing at my local county shows. Then, when I turned nine, I moved on to the national stage, so I’ve been involved from the first chance I could get.” Wood recalls memories from her first National Junior Angus Show in 2013, which ignited her interest in the breed, the industry, and most importantly, the people. “My first memory would probably
be my first junior nationals,” Wood said. “The people I met, the connections I made, how I got started and just learning about the industry as a super young child was what really kicked it off for me and what made me realize this is what I want to do and where I want to be.” That realization sparked Wood’s passion for the Angus breed, but the woman in the red coat sparked her passion for influencing the younger generation. “I want to be a role model to someone and inspire them to have the same passion I do,” Wood said. “I always recognized the one woman in the ring wearing the red coat and I always wanted to be that woman. It’s a time honored symbol of the Association, the Auxiliary, and the Angus breed as a whole.” Wood hails from Willow Spring, N.C., and currently attends Oklahoma State University. She is a freshman double majoring in agricultural communications and agribusiness. After
graduation, she plans to open her own livestock marketing company. “I’m really into photography, writing, and potentially videography,” Wood said. “I want to be able to give back to the Angus breed and find a new, different way [to market cattle] that not everybody else is doing. That’s exciting to me.” Look for Wood in the crown, red coat, and sash during her travels this year. For more information about the American Angus Auxiliary sponsored contest, visit www.angusauxiliary.com.
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PAGE 28
The Carolina Cattle Connection q DECEMBER 2021
The Carolina Cattle Connection
q DECEMBER 2021
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46 Annual Clemson Bull Sale th
presented by Clemson University & the S.C. Cattlemen’s Association
! d e t a u l a v e e r a y c n e i c i f f e d e e f d n ce a
an m r o f r e p e r e h W
Sale will be broadcast LIVE via DVAuction!
40+ Bulls & 35+ Heifers
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The Carolina Cattle Connection q DECEMBER 2021
NEWS
NAFA Releases 2022 Alfalfa Variety Ratings. The National Alfalfa & Forage Alliance (NAFA) released the 2022 edition of its popular Alfalfa Variety Ratings - Winter Survival, Fall Dormancy & Pest Resistant Ratings for Alfalfa Varieties - a useful tool for hay and livestock farmers, extension specialists, agribusiness personnel, or anyone involved in the production of alfalfa. NAFA’s Alfalfa Variety Ratings is a publication unlike any other in providing an extensive listing of alfalfa varieties and their corresponding ratings for fall dormancy, winter survival, bacterial wilt, aphanomyces, leafhopper, and a host of other pests. The publication also includes other ratings, such as grazing tolerance and standability, to provide you the information you need to make educated decisions about the alfalfa varieties that will perform best in a given environment. All varieties listed in the Alfalfa Variety Ratings publication can be purchased in the United States for the 2022 production year. The 2022 edition of NAFA’s Alfalfa Variety Ratings features 178 alfalfa varieties from 16 marketers and has been verified with the Association of Official Seed Certifying Agencies (AOSCA) and the National Alfalfa Variety Review Board (NAVRB). If you’d prefer an electronic option, try NAFA’s searchable, online Alfalfa Variety Ratings database where you can make the process of narrowing alfalfa varietal choices even easier. Available at alfalfa.org/varietyratings.php, NAFA’s searchable database allows you to search for varieties using up to 23 different parameters like variety name, marketer, fall dormancy, winter survival, disease resistance, and insect resistance. NAFA has made finding the perfect variety as effortless as possible. NAFA’s Alfalfa Variety Ratings publication is available in the November issue of Hay & Forage Grower magazine or by visiting NAFA’s website at www. alfalfa.org. NAFA’s Alfalfa Variety Ratings is a must have for anyone involved in the production of alfalfa – be sure to get yours today! NAFA Releases Alfalfa for Beef Cows. Alfalfa has long been known as the “Queen of Forages,” recognized as the
premier source of energy, protein, fiber, and minerals for high producing dairy cattle. With so much focus on its benefits as a high quality dairy feed, however, alfalfa can often be thought of as “too good” for beef cattle. Nothing could be further from the truth. While beef cows and growing cattle have lower dietary protein needs than lactating dairy cows, few forages surpass alfalfa’s value as a high energy, high protein feed source. To provide a comprehensive overview of the advantages of feeding alfalfa hay to beef cows, the National Alfalfa & Forage Alliance (NAFA) has recently updated and released Alfalfa for Beef Cows, serving as a quick and handy guide to everything livestock farmers should know about feeding alfalfa to beef cows. Some of the publication’s highlights include: • Why Consider Alfalfa for Beef Cattle? • Alfalfa as a Protein Source • Harvest Management of Alfalfa • Utilizing Alfalfa in Beef Herds • Breeding and Selection of Alfalfa “Alfalfa is most often thought of as the premier forage for dairy cattle,” said Beth Nelson, NAFA President. “But alfalfa’s contribution as a high energy, high protein feed source in a well managed, nutrient dense beef cattle diet is critically important as well.” In addition to discussing alfalfa’s dietary energy content, vitamin and mineral concentrations, and dry matter content, Alfalfa for Beef Cows also covers stand persistence, alfalfa-bermudagrass mixtures, and the use of alfalfa for grazing. This publication is intended as a resource for both livestock producers and hay farmers as a useful educational tool to provide valuable information to their regular customers and to potential buyers. Get your copy today! Alfalfa for Beef Cows is available to order for $2/copy in print form or may be downloaded for free at www.alfalfa.org/ publications.php. About the National Alfalfa & Forage Alliance. Formed in 2006, NAFA is an umbrella organization of state and regional alfalfa seed and alfalfa hay associations, genetic suppliers, seed marketers, and allied industry members
dedicated to promoting the interests of the nation’s alfalfa, alfalfa seed, and forage producers through education, research, promotion, and advocacy. NAFA’s primary focus is issue advocacy and policy development/ implementation in all areas affecting the alfalfa seed and forage industry, such as federal research funding, farm policy, agricultural coexistence, crop insurance, environmental regulation, and biotechnology. NAFA educational activities focus on its highly respected and popular Alfalfa
Intensive Training Seminar, held each fall and featuring the latest information with regard to genetics, varieties, seed production, growth and development, soils, fertility, management, and a host of other topics intended to give participants the knowledge they need to make the most of their alfalfa investment. NAFA is governed by a 27 member board of directors which includes alfalfa seed and forage producers, university researchers, and representatives from allied industry organizations who guide the direction of NAFA activities.
S.C. Charolais News By GEORGEANNE WEBB S.C. Charolais Association
I’m sorry for no article last month. With the sale at about the time the article needed to be written and the death of my brother-in-law the week before that, I pretty much did not have sense enough to write anything. My sister’s husband died of COVID-19 the week before the sale even though he was fully vaccinated and wore a mask all the time, so go figure. I have been really busy trying to help my sister get through all of this. Back to the sale, if you missed the sale, you missed a really good sale with lots of people and really good cattle. We enjoyed seeing old friends and meeting new friends and also having a fantastic meal the night before. We loaded up on October 5, and if you remember, it was pouring buckets of rain that morning. After loading, we had to go back into the house, dry off and change clothes but we got ‘er done. The weather was great in Knoxville, and we enjoyed a great sale. Make plans next year to try to attend, and I guarantee you will enjoy yourself. The day before leaving for the sale, I got up early and went to a small restaurant in Greenville for breakfast. I got wind that Fox and Friends was going
to be there to visit with local folks. Will Cain was there, and we chatted. Then his assistant came over to me and asked me to move to a table under the lights because Will wanted to interview me for the show. I was on national TV for all the world to see, and by the way, I had on my Charolais shirt. October was a wild month, and so far, November has been quiet. I am writing this on November 5, and I finished my Christmas shopping today. I had been in a tizzy because I ordered my granddaughter some Lincoln Logs because she likes to build things. My Lincoln Logs must be on a ship off the coast of California because they are back ordered, and Lincoln Logs on every website that I look on showed Lincoln Logs back ordered. I had a thought and ordered her an erector set, and I got that in three days. The heck with Lincoln Logs. With everything going on in the world, the only thing I lost sleep over was those Lincoln Logs. You think mama bears are bad. I can assure you to never mess with a grandma bear. I hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving and hope you have a Merry Christmas.
You shouldn’t have to have a gun held to your head to take advantage of the expert A.I., superior genetics, the best in purebreds and outstanding farm supplies featured in the Classifieds in this issue!
The Carolina Cattle Connection
q DECEMBER 2021
PAGE 31
THE SIMMENTAL TRAIL
By JENNIE RUCKER Executive Secretary N.C. Simmental Association Carolina Classic Fair Open Show. The Open Simmental Show at the Carolina Classic Fair was held on October 8, with Alexis Wivell from Blacksburg, Va., judging the cattle. She selected the calf champion, TX Penelope Pussycat, as her grand champion heifer. This heifer was shown by Charlie Thomas of Winston-Salem and was sired by W/C Relentless 32C. The reserve champion heifer was TX Scarlet, the junior champion heifer. Scarlet was shown by Samantha Maddox of Virginia and is a daughter of TX Dakota Red. The reserve calf champion was TX Victoria, shown by Charlie Thomas and sired by W/C Relentless 32C. The reserve junior champion was TX Beretta, shown by Samantha Maddox and sired
by TX Gunsmoke. In the bull show, TX Huckleberry was the grand champion Simmental bull, and also was the calf champion. Huckleberry was shown by Charlie Thomas and is a son of W/C Executive Order 8543B. Carolina Classic Fair Junior Show. The Junior Heifer Show at the Carolina Classic Fair was held on October 10 with Steve McGill from Iva, S.C., judging the event. The grand champion heifer was Baileys Red Velvet 046H, shown by Evie Jones of Shelby, North Carolina. This heifer is a daughter of Profit. The reserve champion heifer was Big Dream Mabelle H20, shown by Quentin Stayrook of Catawba, North Carolina. This heifer was sired by DNF C14. N.C. State Fair Junior Show. The
N.C. Simmental Association 1341 US Hwy 21 • Hamptonville, NC 27020 336-468-1679 • www.ncsimmental.com • NCSA@yadtel.net Like us on Facebook! PAGE 32
The Carolina Cattle Connection q DECEMBER 2021
N.C. State Fair Junior Simmental and Percentage Simmental Shows were held on October 16. The judge was Willie Weis from Iowa. In the Purebred Simmental Show, Evie Jones exhibited the grand champion heifer with Baileys Red Velvet 046H. The reserve champion was Hagan Jones of Shelby, exhibiting CRSS Riley, sired by Profit. In the Percentage Simmental Show, Shelby Candler of Weaverville had the grand champion heifer. This heifer was GHC Blackcap Fergie 91H1, sired by Profit. The reserve champion Percentage was Seldom Rest Renegade 0079H, shown by Hannah Vanhoy of Catawba. This heifer is a daughter of GCC CM Stockbroker B005. N.C. State Fair Open Show. The N.C. State Fair Open Show was held on October 20, with Todd Alford from Bowman, Ga., judging this event. Baileys Red Velvet 046H, shown by Evie Jones, was again grand champion Simmental heifer. Baileys was the junior champion heifer. The reserve champion was the calf champion, TX Raquel, shown by Charlie Thomas. Raquel is a daughter of LLSF Vantage Point F398. The reserve calf champion was
Edenhurst Anna Mae, shown by Edenhurst Farm of Markham, Virginia. Anna Mae is sired by Edenhurst All Around Candidate. The reserve junior champion heifer was UDE Miss 348H, shown by Robbie Sand of Alachua, Fla., and sired by Mr HOC Broker. In the Purebred Bull Show, the calf champion, TX Huckleberry, shown by Charlie Thomas, was grand champion Simmental bull. Premier Exhibitor honors went to Charlie Thomas. In the competitive Percentage Simmental Show, the grand champion heifer was the junior champion heifer, Ranada, shown by Clayton Hinnant of Kenly, North Carolina. Ranada is a daughter of Mr HOC Broker. Reserve champion Percentage Simmental was the calf champion, TX Martini, shown by Charlie Thomas and sired by TX Atlantis. The reserve calf champion was Ms Lady Peakdot 23H, shown by Hagan Jones and sired by STF Pay Up FZ87. Reserve junior champion was Edenhurst Lucinda, shown by Edenhurst Farm and sired by CSCX Bandwagon 513A. The senior champion heifer was CCR Delilah Mabelle 7G, shown by Grayson
American Simmental Association 1 Genetics Way • Bozeman, MT 59718 406-587-4531 • www.simmental.org
Blankenship of Castalia, North Carolina. This heifer is sired by CCR Boulder 1339A. The reserve senior champion heifer was AFCE Endless Love 952G, shown by Robbie Sand and sired by W/C Relentless 32C. In the Percentage Bull Show, Todd Alford selected the calf champion as his grand champion Percentage Simmental bull, DRCK The Answer H26. This bull
is a son of W/C HOC HCC Red Answer 33B. The reserve champion Percentage Simmental bull was the junior champion bull, Mr SFGS Sven 1152H, shown by Robbie Sand. This bull is a son of WS Pilgrim H182U. The reserve calf champion bull was TX Whiskey, shown by Charlie Thomas. Whiskey is a son of Felt Last Call 304F. Congratulations to all these winners!
Carolina Classic Winners
N.C. State Fair Junior Show reserve champion Percentage Simmental heifer was Seldom Rest Renegade 0079H, shown by Hannah Vanhoy.
N.C. State Open Show grand champion Percentage Simmental heifer was Ranada, shown by Clayton Hinnant.
N.C. State Open Show grand champion Purebred Simmental heifer was Baileys Red Velvet 046H, shown by Evie Jones.
Carolina Classic Open Show grand champion heifer was TX Penelope Pussycat, shown by TX Enterprises.
N.C. State Open Show reserve champion Percentage Simmental heifer was TX Martini, shown by TX Enterprises.
Carolina Classic Junior Show reserve champion heifer was Big Dream Mabelle H20, shown by Quentin Stayrook.
State Fair Pics N.C. State Open Show reserve champion Purebred Simmental heifer was TX Raquel, shown by TX Enterprises.
Carolina Classic Open Show reserve champion heifer was TX Scarlet, shown by Samantha Maddox.
N.C. State Fair Junior Show grand champion Purebred Simmental heifer was Baileys Red Velvet 046H, shown by Evie Jones.
N.C. State Open Show grand champion Purebred Simmental bull was TX Huckleberry, shown by TX Enterprises.
Carolina Classic Open Show grand champion bull was TX Huckleberry, shown by TX Enterprises.
Carolina Classic Junior Show grand champion heifer was Baileys Red Velvet 046H, shown by Evie Jones.
N.C. State Open Show grand champion Percentage Simmental bull was DRCK The Answer H26, shown by Hayden Campbell.
N.C. State Fair Junior Show reserve champion Purebred Simmental heifer was CRSS Riley, shown by Hagan Jones.
N.C. State Fair Junior Show grand champion Percentage Simmental heifer was GHC Blackcap Fergie 91H1, shown by Shelby Candler.
N.C. State Open Show reserve champion Percentage Simmental Bull was Mr SFGS Sven 1152H, shown by Robbie Sand.
Don’t put your cart before your horse...advertise that sale ahead of time! You’ll see positive results. The Carolina Cattle Connection
q DECEMBER 2021
PAGE 33
Check out the
North Carolina Hereford Advantage at
www.nchereford.com 4B FARMS, LLC Shelby, NC Bryson, Wren, Beau, Belle, Bonnie & Bennet Westbrook 980-230-4868 • brysonw@thewestbrookco.com
McCOY CATTLE FARM Cove City, NC Myron & Charlie McCoy 252-229-4602 mccoycattlefarms@gmail.com
4K RANCH Nelson, VA Rick & Linda Kern 919-272-6124 4kranch@bellsouth.net
MITCHEM’S FARM 3C Vale, NC Wayne, Crystal, Regan & Jordan Mitchem 704-472-4369 mitchemsfarm@bellsouth.net
AWC CATTLE COMPANY Winston-Salem, NC Andie & Wes Carpenter 336-970-1655 • jcarpenter@alphagraphics.com www.windmillacresfarms.com
NORTH PINO LAND & CATTLE COMPANY Mocksville, NC Kevin Robinson 336-940-2547 • kevrob1@aol.com
BLINSON POLLED HEREFORDS Lenoir, NC Keith & Peggy Blinson - 828-310-4526 Bryan & Beth Blinson - 919-422-9108
TAYLOR’S MILL FARM Zebulon, NC J. Brent Creech 919-801-7561 tmfherefords@icloud.com
DOUBLE J FARM Traphill, NC • Earlysville, VA John Wheeler 910-489-0024 • doublejfarmllc@yahoo.com www.doublejfarmllc.com
TERRACE FARM Lexington, NC Jim, Linda & Chad Davis 336-247-1554 jgdavis101@yahoo.com
FIVE J’S BEEF & CATTLE COMPANY Clayton, NC Jody & Angela Standley Kim Prestwood (Manager) • 828-320-7317 - Kim jodystandley@gmail.com
TRIPLETT POLLED HEREFORDS Statesville, NC James Triplett 704-902-2250 triplettmarble@bellsouth.net
GRASSY CREEK FARM Bullock, NC Scott, Pam, Hailee, Lillee & Elizabeth Bissett 919-482-1176 Bissettsp1@gmail.com
W&A HEREFORDS Providence, NC George, Tammy, William, & Andy Ward 434-251-3637 waherefordfarm@comcast.net
HEREFORD HILLS Greensboro, NC Bill Kirkman III 336-382-9635 ST Genetics Representative
NCHA Secretary/Treasurer
LOOKABILL FAMILY LIVESTOCK Lexington, NC Reggie, Patty, Tyler & Noah Lookabill 336-240-2142 rlookabill6015@gmail.com PAGE 34
Myron McCoy
252-637-4995 nchereford@yahoo.com www.nchereford.com
The Carolina Cattle Connection q DECEMBER 2021
50 Years Strong in the Hereford Breed. In celebration of 50 years in the Hereford business, ten Hereford breeders were honored as Golden Breeders for their commitment during the American Hereford Association (AHA) Annual Membership Meeting and breakfast in Kansas City, Mo., on October 23. This year’s Golden Breeders from North Carolina are: Prestwood Beef Cattle - Kim Yates Prestwood, Lenoir, N.C., purchased his first Polled Hereford in 1970 from the North Carolina Hereford Association Spring Sale. That same year, Kim became a junior member of the American Hereford Association. His maternal grandfather, Joseph “Guthrie” Bumgarner, had a great influence on Kim’s life and his love for cattle. Kim has two children, Jennifer Smith of Statesville, N.C., and Kyle Prestwood of Walterboro, S.C. Both of Kim’s children followed in his footsteps as participants in the National Junior Hereford Association when they were young. Windmill Acres Farm - Phil Fishel and his wife, Brenda, of 56 years, established Windmill Acres Farm, Barnardsville, N.C., in the early ‘70s. They have two children, Neil and Andie, who grew up in the Hereford breed. Phil is most proud of his grandchildren, Clara, Melanie, and Wesley Fishel, and
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their involvement in the Hereford breed, participating in local and national shows, making herd decisions, and most recently, Melanie serving as the 2020 National Hereford Queen. Windmill Acres Farm is still managed today by Phil and Brenda, as well as Neil and his wife Karen, Andie and her husband Wes Carpenter, and the three grandchildren. Their focus is to raise productive, efficient cattle that exemplify the longevity and strong maternal traits of the Hereford breed. Mitchem Receives Vanier Family Scholarship and Prestigious Gary Bishop Memorial Scholarship. High achieving Hereford youth were awarded numerous scholarships during the 2021 American Hereford Association Annual Meeting and Conference in Kansas City, Mo., on October 22. In a special awards ceremony, the Hereford Youth Foundation of America (HYFA) and its army of donors proudly awarded $160,000 in scholarships to 24 National Junior Hereford Association members to help support their higher education goals. Ten scholarships of $10,000 are given by the Vanier Family for a total of $100,000 in HYFA scholarships annually. Jack and the late Donna Vanier and family of CK Ranch in Kansas have paved the way for Hereford Youth to further their education, and this year marks a $600,000
Pictured from left to right are Maddie Weaber of Wamego, Kan., Regan Mitchem of Vale, N.C., Tami Weaber of Wamego Kan., and Jodi Jordan of Rensselaer, Indiana.
commitment to education from the Vanier family. The Vanier family is proud of the National Junior Hereford Association (NJHA) members and believes the work ethic young people learn growing up in the Hereford breed sets them apart in today’s workforce. The Gary Bishop Memorial
scholarship given on behalf of HYFA is a $2,500 scholarship in memory of Gary Bishop. The Oklahoma native first began working for the AHA in 1973, serving in the capacities of assistant director of Total Performance Records, director of feedlot and carcass programs, and director of field services. He also served as director
of youth activities, which was a job he held in high esteem throughout his life. He dedicated much of his energy working for the betterment of the Hereford youth organization. The scholarship is awarded to a deserving member of the National Junior Hereford Association to continue financing their college education. Regan Mitchem from Vale, N.C., is a junior in animal science with a preveterinary focus at N.C. State University. She aspires to attend the N.C. State College of Veterinary Medicine and then return home to expand her mom’s small animal veterinary practice to include more livestock reproductive services. In veterinary school, she will focus on livestock reproduction, using her personal experience in the cattle industry, veterinary internships, practice, and research experiences to meet the need for veterinary reproductive services. The scholarship fund is the cornerstone of HYFA, and countless youth are the benefactors of its mission. This last fiscal year, the foundation celebrated net assets reaching an all time high of $5.4 million, and $186,000 was
given back to Hereford youth to assist with their college educations. A b o u t t h e H e r e f o r d Yo u t h Foundation of America. The HYFA was established in 1986 and is a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) corporation dedicated exclusively to the scholarship and educational support of youth in the business of raising Hereford cattle. The mission of the Hereford Youth Foundation of America is to encourage, recognize, and reward the development of life skills and values in the next generation of leaders by providing education, scholarship, and leadership opportunities for Hereford Youth. About the American Hereford Association. The AHA, with headquarters in Kansas City, Mo., is one of the largest U.S. beef breed associations. The notfor-profit organization, along with its subsidiaries — Certified Hereford Beef (CHB) LLC, Hereford Publications Inc. (HPI), and American Beef Records Association (ABRA) — provides programs and services for its members and their customers while promoting the Hereford breed and supporting education, youth, and research.
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q DECEMBER 2021
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Control the Controllables and Leave the Rest Alone Making a living in agriculture instills many profound lessons, but perhaps the first and hardest is this: Some things are beyond your control. Severe weather, drought, fire, global markets, the encroachment of foreign animal disease — many of the variables influencing a farmer or rancher’s bottom line are partially or entirely out of their hands. At least some degree of uncertainty is intrinsic to the cattle business, and our producers face many unknowns as they work toward the future. Producers must take predictability and stability wherever they can find it, and that’s why minimizing volatility at the federal level is such a prominent part of NCBA’s daily work in Washington, D.C. When President Biden took office, we knew that a myriad of environmental issues would move to the top of the list for federal agencies. We expected — and have seen over the course of the year — a heavy focus on land designations, environmental regulations, climate change measures, and more. This autumn, many headlines have broken in quick succession on these issues, and the seemingly
constant government attention can feel unnerving. We are seeing the rapid fire announcement of environmental policy changes because the White House is looking for wins. They need some cover to counter what is shaping up to be a messy, partisan end of year fight over the budget reconciliation package and infrastructure spending bill. With that in mind, NCBA is engaging on all fronts to fight back against knee jerk environmental policy decisions that prioritize short term media coverage over long term stability, stewardship, and planning. What’s In a Name? Since January, when the Biden administration announced their goal to conserve 30 percent of American lands and waters by 2030, agricultural producers have been on high alert. “Our members, particularly in the West, have voiced valid concerns throughout the year about how the White House’s America the Beautiful plan might be used to unilaterally take land out of production, out of grazing,” said NCBA Executive Director of Natural Resources
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Kaitlynn Glover. “These are communities who know how quickly their lives and their operations can change at the whim of a federal agency.” Two developments, in particular, have brought these concerns to the forefront. In early September, the president issued a proclamation naming September as National Wilderness Month and voiced clear support for the use of the Wilderness Act of 1964. The p r o b l e m ? Wi l d e r n e s s designations are a very broad tool that prioritizes preservation over conservation. Designations made under this act prohibit the use of motorized vehicles or mechanical tools, in many cases effectively banning the active management that is necessary to curb the risk of catastrophic wildfire, eradicate invasive species, maintain a healthy habitat for wildlife, and more. Reliance on wilderness designations and other tools that try to keep land as it is forever, deny the basic fact that ecosystems must be managed to be conserved. “When the administration prioritizes a blanket designation over targeted, active conservation plans, they send the signal that they only care about the name of a geographic area — not the condition of the natural resources on that land,” Glover said. “Conservation is an action verb, and it requires careful management and attention — like the kind of work cattle producers do.” About a month later, in early October, the administration announced they plan to expand the Bears Ears and Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monuments in Utah by millions of acres. The move was deeply disappointing, and NCBA was quick to point out that after months of touting their intent to work collaboratively with state governments and gather local stakeholder input, the administration totally disregarded outreach on the ground. Instead, the administration opted for a unilateral federal designation rather than working with local residents to craft a constructive, permanent plan. “Successful, durable management and protection of special places only works if those involved are committed to the same goal,” said NCBA Vice President of Government Affairs Ethan Lane. “These should not be partisan decisions, but what we saw in Utah was purely driven by partisan politics. For these landscapes, we must think in terms of decades, not election cycles. Long term conservation strategies can take years to
evolve, and it is completely unrealistic to keep whiplashing back and forth on these monuments from administration to administration, all while paying lip service to the idea of community input.” Glover agreed that the monument designation will work contrary to the conservation goals that the administration promotes on paper. “Preservation and conservation are fundamentally different things,” she said. “The former attempts the impossible task of freezing dynamic landscapes in time, prohibiting necessary interventions to keep ecosystems healthy. The latter lays out a strategic plan for active management that responds to changes and helps these ecosystems thrive. Unfortunately, monument designations are more about the kind of preservation strategies we know from experience do not work.” Glover added that this new emphasis on removing management tools on more than three million acres in these monuments is particularly out of touch at a time when catastrophic wildfires have covered more than five million acres this year alone. “Wildfire doesn’t care about whether an area has a special name or title — it cares about the availability of oxygen and fine fuels. That’s it. Enacting these designations, especially in this way, disincentives stakeholder cooperation that is so desperately needed to prevent these landscapes from facing a fiery fate. If the administration really wanted to protect these landscapes, they’d work with those who are best equipped to do it: livestock producers, assisting state and tribal leaders, and local communities,” she said. NCBA is engaging proactively with the White House and federal agencies through the America the Beautiful Interagency Working group to make clear what ranchers support, what they oppose, and how their extensive knowledge and experience on the ground is critical for the administration to reach their conservation goals. “Despite these recent moves, the White House can’t sign a piece of paper and designate their way to achieving the goal of 30 by 30. They know it, and the agricultural community knows it,” Lane said. “Our priority right now is applying pressure to the administration to take the time to build out sustainable, long term conservation plans. This requires a genuine dialogue with cattle producers. A well considered, collaborative effort is ultimately better for the environment, the health of our natural resources, and the rural Americans who live and work in these communities.”
The Carolina Cattle Connection
q DECEMBER 2021
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The Carolina Cattle Connection q DECEMBER 2021
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Counting My Beef Industry Blessings By SHELIA GROBOSKY BioZyme Inc. I honestly cannot think of a better way to have grown up than to be raised on cattle ranches. Although I no longer have cattle of my own, I still get to tell the stories of beef producers and help provide them educational pieces through the written word, all while seeing the neighbor’s cattle out on pasture through my office window. I’ve often heard it said, it’s not about the cattle, it’s about the people, but the two rely on one another, and I’m so grateful for the people and the lessons I’ve learned in the beef industry. From the lessons learned on the ranch in the Nebraska Panhandle to those learned while working for members at two very different member organizations, the cattle industry has taught me some unique things and provided me some wonderful opportunities. We all know that the industry doesn’t go without challenges from environmental to markets, but during a time of thanksgiving, I wanted to share five things I am thankful for, especially this year. Delicious, Nutritious Protein Source I will always prefer beef at the center of my
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plate. Oh sure, those who know me really well know I also like seafood, but what’s better than a good surf and turf? Growing up in an area where cattle outnumbered people, beef was definitely what was for dinner! With so many varieties of cuts and cooking methods, a good steak or burger just simply satisfies and tastes so delicious. And, think about the high quality protein, along with all the other nutrients you are getting from it! Original Land Stewards - Cattle and cattle producers take care of the land. Can you imagine how overgrown the land would be without cattle to graze? And good cattle producers understand that taking great care of their animals makes them good stewards of the land. There is no doubt in my mind that our landscape is better off with cattle and other natural grazers like sheep, goats, and horses to groom the countryside. Memories - Some of my earliest childhood memories are from ranches in the Nebraska Panhandle and Nebraska Sandhills, where my dad was a herdsman on Hereford ranches. Preschool for me was riding around in that old feed truck – not in a car seat
The Carolina Cattle Connection q DECEMBER 2021
or even buckled in. I learned to count by counting Hereford bulls at the bunk or by counting fence posts in a fence line. The birds and bees’ talks weren’t necessary because that happened in the barn at A.I. and calving seasons. Ranch kids just “knew” things, and I can’t imagine not having those memories. Friendships - When you grow up in the cattle business, the world becomes very small. Friendships are formed and made to last. The first time I showed a calf was at the Hooker County Fair. Today, I get to work with one of those people who was also showing at that same fair. Even though we went our separate ways for a couple of decades, we have a common background, know many of the same people, and today share a camaraderie that includes asking about each other’s families when we talk. A wise former coworker once advised me to meet two new people at each event I go to because you never know who will become a friend or customer. Emerging Leaders - Young people in the beef industry are amazing! Most of them know the value of hard work, aren’t afraid to talk to adults, and have some
common sense. I have had the opportunity to work with different groups of young people during my career, and regardless of if they return to production ag, the majority of them make great leaders and spokespeople for our industry. They might become politicians, lawyers, teachers, medical professionals, or communicators, and they share a common bond. They are passionate about the memories they have of the beef business and the industry, and they will share that love with others who might not understand the industry. No, the beef business might not always be glamorous. It’s long days, some short nights. Wondering what regulations are coming down the pipe next and when the next rain is coming. However, if we take time to think about the big picture, there are definitely some things to be grateful for in our industry. I hope you will take a few minutes during this holiday season to reflect on the blessings in your life and what the industry has given you. Count your blessings. Give thanks. There is always something to be thankful for.
The Carolina Cattle Connection
q DECEMBER 2021
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An Investment in Genomics is an Investment in the Future. Genomic testing in the cattle business celebrated its 10th anniversary last year. While the dairy sector has dominated this field, beef producers are quickly catching up as more producers and companies continue to invest in this technology to improve their animals and industry. Operations of all sizes and different segments of the industry have found a use for genomics in some practical capacity. Beyond the obvious applications, such as increased profits or efficiency, genomics has a role in the future generation of your farm or ranch and the Limousin breed. At this year ’s virtual Beef Improvement Federation Conference, Dr. Daniela Lourenco of the University of Georgia shared findings from her 2018 research on genomic testing in Angus cattle. One of her take home messages was the importance of widespread data submission and collection. When 52,000 animals were genotyped on a 50,000 SNP (single nucleotide polymorphism) chip, the accuracy of EPD records increased by 25 percent. When 335,000 animals were genotyped, that increased to 36 percent. She attributed this increase because this was new, non-redundant information being added. As you likely already know, genomic
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testing has accelerated the advancement of young sires and their genetic progress. Genotyping can increase accuracy of these animals, equal to having 10-30 daughters on the ground. The accuracy of these tests and the resulting genomically enhanced EPDs (GE-EPDs) varies by a few different things. Some, such as the heritability of a certain trait, are out of human control. But factors such as the number of recorded animals, number of reported performance records, the accuracy of reported records, and the type of test used can very much be controlled by breeders and breed associations. Commercial producers and those who sell terminal animals also have reason to be vested in genomic developments. As part of an NCBA breed association panel discussion, Mark Anderson, NALF executive director, noted the importance for commercial producers to look at seedstock producers and their programs. “Those are the folks who have spent a lot of time and turned in a lot of data over the years and they tend to be on the front end of genomic enhancement,” he said. Thanks to the breeders who have been investing in genomics for some time now, accuracy continues to improve by leaps and bounds. Now, it’s in the hands of the industry to continue genotyping
The Carolina Cattle Connection q DECEMBER 2021
and utilize this reliable information. Beyond your own operation, an investment in genomics is also an investment in the vitality of the Limousin breed. Although we’ve had this technology for over a decade, there is consistently new information that we continue to investigate and uncover. For example, some genomic research out of France earlier this year looked at ten unrelated Limousin bull calves to identify regions and polymorphisms and found 13,943,766 variants. They were also able to pinpoint some causative regulatory polymorphisms to better understand the mechanisms and targets within artificial selections. This can help better interpret genomic-wide association studies for the breed. Besides enhancing EPDs and helping with decisions, breeder genotyping builds the database for similar breed specific genomic research to come down the road. Coupled with breed association participation and good recordkeeping, the genomic accuracy is sure to keep the future of the Limousin breed very bright. You Can Have Your Feed Efficiency and Eat it, Too. Genetics solutions exist to achieve superior feed efficiency and superior carcass quality. Let’s talk feed efficiency. That is, after all, very relevant to profitability in the cattle business, especially given today’s high feed costs. But relevance is one thing. Reality is entirely different. And the reality is that feed efficiency has not received the focus it deserves as a key profit driver for beef producers. That’s changing. Slowly, but it’s changing.
Here’s even better news: genetics and genetic tools exist to build cattle that are highly efficient while still meeting or exceeding the carcass quality targets that earn packer premiums and satisfy consumers. Let’s Define Feed Efficiency - In its simplest terms, feed efficiency is the ratio of pounds of feed consumed to pounds of gain. So if you have two steers standing side by side at the feed bunk and one eats 6 pounds of feed to gain a pound and the other eats 5.5 pounds of feed to gain the same pound, the second one is more efficient. In any scenario, that’s good. In a time dominated by high feed costs, that’s even better. “If we talk about feedlot profitability, the biggest single driver is selling price,” says Dr. Kee Jim, CEO of Feedlot Health Management Services. “But that’s not something you can necessarily control. So then, feed efficiency or feed conversion is by far the most important production attribute.” Feedlot Health Management Services offers a suite of feedlot consulting services covering all aspects of procurement, production, and marketing. The company is globally the largest of its kind and has clients in the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Latin America, Kazakhstan, Russia, and China. It’s important to note that feed efficiency and average daily gain are not the same. In fact, in today’s marketing environment, where most fed cattle are sold on carcass merit, average daily gain is only marginally important. ”Just measuring gain alone does not tell you how well they’re converting,” says Jerry Wulf, a cattle feeder, cow/calf producer, and seedstock genetics supplier from Morris, Minnesota. “Average gaining cattle with below average dry matter consumption that equates to good feed conversion and good feed efficiency have more value than the fastest gaining cattle that aren’t converting as well.” He has the experience and numbers to back that up. He’s been collecting feed efficiency data on a pen basis in his feedyards for more than 30 years and individual data on the cattle in his seedstock operation for more than 15 years. What About Carcass Merit? Without a doubt, beef producers have done an outstanding job of improving carcass quality. That’s clearly documented by the increase in Choice and Prime from around 64 percent in 2010 to 83 percent of all cattle graded so far in 2021, according to USDA’s Ag Marketing Service. Of the cattle grading Choice in 2021, 32 percent landed in the upper ⅔ Choice.
That’s happened for several reasons. One of the results of improved genetics is that mature weights have increased. “We’ve selected very effectively for higher gaining cattle,” Jim says. “If you look at carcass weights over the last 30 years, they improved by about 7 pounds a year with roughly the same number of days on feed.” That has given packers the green light to push cattle feeders to feed cattle longer and to heavier outweights. That’s because heavier carcasses improve plant efficiency. Given the historic premiums for upper ⅔ Choice and Prime, it makes economic sense for feeders to maximize quality premiums by choosing to feed cattle longer on higher energy rations to heavier outweights. However, this can be an expensive proposition if animals are not genetically designed to convert nutrients to saleable red meat as they reach historically heavy live weights. “Feed accounts for somewhere between ⅔ and ¾ of the input costs of the feeding phase,” says Dr. Bob Weaber, professor and director of the Kansas State University Eastern Kansas Research and Extension Centers. “So, feed intake and the utilization of those feed resources really gets at the heart of profitability in our business.” That’s even more pronounced as corn prices go up.
“The feed to gain number is directly correlated to cost of gain,” Wulf says. “And if you lower feed to gain, you lower cost of gain.” What’s more, the cost of gain increases the longer an animal is on feed. One way cattle feeders can roll back the cost of gain is finding genetics that convert feed to saleable end product more efficiently, even at heavier outweights. T h a t ’s b e s t a c h i e v e d b y crossbreeding, Jim says. Using a Continental breed such as Limousin or Lim-Flex on a British based cow herd gives you the best of both worlds — the maximum combination of a balance between gain, feed efficiency, and carcass quality. But in an effort to chase grid premiums for the upper ⅔ Choice and Prime, the industry has tended to sacrifice another key profit driver — feed efficiency. As a result, Yield Grade (YG) 4 and 5 carcass have increased as well. “At this point in time, the percentage of cattle that are in Yield Grade 4 and 5, we’re not in single digits anymore,” Weaber says. Then there are those carcass premiums. While those dollars are certainly worth chasing, there are some caveats to ponder. “Feedlots are only paid a premium if the cattle grade better than the plant average,” Jim says. “You have to exceed
the baseline in the plant (for quality grade), and you’re paid on the portion that exceeds that baseline.” So, it becomes a game of diminishing returns. “When we’re getting up there to 80 percent or better Choice and Prime, how much room for improvement do you really have?” Now consider feed efficiency. “The difference with feed conversion is it’s a trait that the cattle feeder constantly gets paid for on the entire population of animals each time,” he says. “And it’s connected to corn or feed grain price. So if we’re in a relatively high feed grain environment like we are today, a ten percent improvement (in feed efficiency) is more than a 10¢ improvement in cost per pound of gain.” Here’s how Jerry Wulf does the math. “You can neglect feed efficiency and just chase marbling and breed cattle that blow past the averages on Prime and CAB. But you need to make sure it’s not costing you too much to get there.” Too many YG 4s and 5s being a good metric. For discussion purposes, assume a $30 per cwt premium on Prime. Then assume you moved the needle from 8 percent Prime to 18 percent on a pen of 100 steers. At a $30 premium, you added $3 per cwt to each animal in the pen. On a 1,350 pound steer, that comes out to $40 per head across all the steers in the pen,
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Wulf says. “I can pick up $40 per head by improving feed efficiency by a quarter of a point,” he says. That’s not hard to do if you work at it. “With some effort and stretch, we’ve improved it by upwards of 20 percent.” That’s a combination of genetic improvement and better feeding strategies. For cattle feeders, the three main factors that drive margin are health, feed efficiency, and carcass value. From a health perspective, that’s why feedyards will pay up for feeder cattle that have been weaned and preconditioned. But, agreeing with Kee Jim, Wulf says in today’s feeding environment, feed efficiency is by far the most important. Cattle health and death loss will vary from pen to pen, but let’s say death loss is at two percent. That’s roughly $20 per head, spread out over the pen, Wulf says. Again, just a slight improvement in feed efficiency can make that less painful. What about carcass premiums? “You look at cattle with a half pound difference in feed efficiency, it’s probably a $75 per head difference,” Wulf says. “The likelihood of you picking up a $75 premium on an entire pen of cattle on a carcass grid, that’s tough.”
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Limousin News continued from the previous page And you have to factor in how many YG 4s and 5s are in the pen, Jim says. “You can indeed get into a scenario where you’ve increased carcass grade, but you haven’t gotten anywhere because your 4s and 5s have come up too much. And the discount on those cattle can be severe.” Genetics For Both - Can you have feeder cattle that convert feed at better than average gain and still produce a Choice or better carcass? The short answer is yes. If you look at the U.S. Meat Animal Research Center (USMARC) data and data from Europe, where researchers have been collecting individual animal feeding data for years, Continental breeds have generally shown better carcass adjusted feed conversion than British breeds, Jim says. “And amongst the Continentals, Limousin cattle consistently show better feed efficiency, mainly because the dressing percentage is higher.” In other words, while two breeds may be similar in terms of feed intake to live weight gain, those differences become wider when you analyze feed intake to carcass weight gain — and carcass weight is what most feeders get paid for on value
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based grids. “So, we’ve taken a breed that as a whole is inherently more efficient, and we’re making even more improvements there,” Wulf says. “And we’re doing it in balance with paying attention to the carcass traits that drive value, and that’s quality grade. So, we have cattle now that convert pretty efficiently and they hang up a desirable carcass.” “As market signals have been passed through the pricing system for commercial cattle, seedstock producers have focused on improving marbling and accelerated that trait improvement over the past five years,” says Dan Hunt of Oxford, Neb., a cattle feeder, seedstock producer, and president of the North American Limousin Foundation (NALF). Genomic marker panel updates by International Genetic Solutions (IGS), a multi-breed genetics effort which Limousin is a part, along with updated USMARC data, document the significant improvement in marbling characteristics for both Limousin and Lim-Flex cattle, Hunt adds. “Genomic testing, breeder focus and the heritability of carcass traits have
The Carolina Cattle Connection q DECEMBER 2021
enabled all of us as seedstock producers to make rapid genetic gain in carcass quality,” he says. “In fact, the marbling EPD value in our breed reflects an improvement of 0.25 to 0.35 for both Limousin and LimFlex, making them very comparable to other Continental breeds.” What’s more, Limousin and LimFlex cattle have been able to achieve this improvement while still maintaining a significant lead on ribeye and backfat EPDs. “That gives us actual retail and cutability advantages,” Hunt says. So yes, Wulf says, the genetics exist to produce high grading carcasses and do it efficiently. And that’s a winwin, he says, because it lowers the cost of production while meeting consumer expectations. “It’s always good if we pull cost of production out of the system. On top of that, if we get better resource utilization, it lowers our carbon footprint. Given the era we’re living in, where cattle are in the crosshairs of being part of climate change and we want to be part of the solution, that’s a good story to tell.” Feed Efficiency and the Commercial Beef Producer - Up to now, there has been little incentive for cow/ calf producers to select for feed efficiency because there hasn’t been a good way to monetize it. That’s certainly true if you sell your calves into a commodity market. But just like proper health management on the ranch, there are potential premiums for cattle with a genetic ability to convert feed to gain more efficiently while still producing high grading carcasses. According to Dr. Bob Weaber, professor and head of the Eastern Kansas Research and Extension Centers with Kansas State University, the heritability of feed efficiency is around 0.3-0.4. That makes it moderately heritable, much the same as the production traits of weaning weight, yearling weight, and carcass characteristics. Given the remarkable improvements the beef business has made in increasing upper 2/3 Choice and Prime carcasses, it’s clear the same genetic strides can be made in feed efficiency. But you can’t capture that value if you sell your calves at weaning. Fortunately, there are value added programs that allow cow/calf producers to capture the carcass value they’ve bred into their herd. The benefits of feed efficiency flow to all cattle, whether they’re marketed conventionally or are in value added programs, says Jerry Wulf, a Morris, Minn., cattle feeder, cow/calf producer, and seedstock genetics supplier.
That’s because, in today’s marketing environment for cattle feeders, feed efficiency is the number one driver for potential profitability. However, when feeding cattle for value added programs that don’t allow production technologies, genetics, specifically better feed efficiency genetics, is the only lever to pull, he says. So how can a cow/calf producer make money by selecting for feed efficiency? One way, according to Wulf, is to become part of a value added program that rewards more efficient cattle that also produce the upper ⅔ Choice and Prime beef that consumers demand. The other is to work with feedyards in producing the type of cattle they demand and will pay up for. “Work with a genetics supplier who is measuring individual feed intake and producing bulls with the genetic potential to increase the feed efficiency of your calves,” he says. “And if you aren’t owning the cattle all the way to harvest, work with a feedyard and start building a history on your calves and how they perform. Track improvements from year to year so that you’re able to capture that value.” That can be best achieved with crossbreeding, says Dr. Kee Jim, CEO of Feedlot Health Management Services. There’s no question the genetics exist to produce Yield 1 and 2 cattle that marble well. “Generally, that’s most easily achieved through crossbreeding (a Continental breed such as Limousin or Lim-Flex on British based cows) to get the maximum combination of a balance between gain, feed efficiency, and carcass.” According to the North American Limousin Foundation, the Limousin and Lim-Flex marbling EPD value has improved 0.25-0.35 over the past five years. What’s more, Limousin and Lim-Flex cattle have achieved this improvement while still maintaining a significant lead on ribeye and backfat EPDs. That gives Limousin and Lim-Flex actual retail and cutability advantages. And that’s a win-win all around. About the North American Limousin Foundation. The North American Limousin Foundation, headquartered in Englewood, Colo., provides programs and services, including the documentation of more than 25,000 head of cattle annually, for approximately 4,000 members and their commercial customers. The Limousin breed and Lim-Flex® hybrid offer industry leading growth and efficiency while being an ideal complement to British breeds. For more information about NALF, please visit www.nalf.org.
30 Annual Replacement Heifer Sale th
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Federation of State Beef Councils Update Beefing Up Flavor and Nutrition. Consumers love beef burgers, especially during summer grilling season, with nearly 20 million Americans enjoying a burger on any given day.1 And, burgers are increasingly being recognized as a popular and practical way to improve diet quality because they are a nutrient dense, flavorful base, perfect for increasing intake of underconsumed foods such as vegetables and whole grains. Just when you think the burger can’t get any better, the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA), a contractor to the Beef Checkoff, has found a way to elevate the summer staple by working with nutrition influencers. Between August 2-16, the Beef Checkoff implemented a “Beef Up Your Burger” social media challenge hosted by registered dietitian and certified personal trainer Nicole Rodriguez, RDN, NASMCPT. This challenge encouraged socially savvy nutrition experts to demonstrate unique ways to “beef up” real beef burgers using nutrient dense, flavorful
additions that support a healthy lifestyle via their Instagram channels. Nutrition experts educated consumers on simple solutions for elevating their beef burgers, emphasizing nutritional value, nontraditional flavors, and convenience while sharing relevant recipes and resources. Ten nutrition influencers participated and reached more than 70,000 individuals. In addition, the “Beef Up Your Burger with Fruits and Vegetables” Facebook live cook along, hosted in conjunction with the Produce for Better Health Foundation (PBH), invited viewers to share ideas for how they amp up their own beef burgers. Creative recipes such as mixing ground beef with garlic, chives, and parsley and adding chopped mushrooms drove participants’ engagement. The live event was PBH’s most successful cook along to date, achieving the highest reach they’ve seen. The cook along performed more than two times better than other PBH Facebook posts, generating nearly twice the
reactions and five times more comments. The social media promotions performed exceptionally well on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, generating more than 634,000 impressions, well above the 100,000 benchmark typically seen for similar promotions. Other efforts included collaborating with two registered dietitian influencers to post recipes on blogs for National Beef Burger Day, reaching 11,000 key opinion leaders. Beef burgers were also featured in a recent Nutrition and Dietetics SmartBrief, a digital news service that curates the day’s top news and trends on nutrition and health and reaches more than 100,000 registered dietitians and nutrition professionals. In early September, a Satellite Media Tour was held with Produce for Better Health CEO and Registered Dietitian Wendy Reinhardt Kapsak, MS, RDN, that reached 30 million. Kapsak talked about how burgers are increasingly being recognized as a popular and practical way to improve diet quality because they’re nutrient rich, a great source of protein, and they’re a flavorful base, perfect for pairing with fruits and vegetables. Beef burgers provide an unlimited number of options to boost nutrition and flavor across a variety of cultures and
traditions while also being affordable and convenient. Real beef burgers present a unique way to help Americans “make every bite count.” Reference 1 WWEIA, NHANES 2013-2016, Day 1, Exponent, Beef Checkoff Analysis, unpublished About the Federation of State Beef Councils. The Federation of State Beef Councils is housed by the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA), which is a contractor to the Beef Checkoff Program. The program is administered by the Cattlemen’s Beef Board, with oversight provided by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
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The Carolina Cattle Connection q DECEMBER 2021
CHUCK
SHANK
CHUCK
BRISKET
RIB
PLATE
RIB
LOIN
SIRLOIN
ROUND SHANK
FLANK
LOIN
SIRLOIN
LEAN
LEAN
LEAN
LEAN
LEAN
ROUND
INGEDIENT CUTS
LEAN
LEAN
LEAN
LEAN
LEAN
LEAN
LEAN
LEAN
LEAN
LEAN
LEAN
LEAN
LEAN
LEAN
LEAN
LEAN
LEAN
LEAN
LEAN
LEAN
LEAN
BRISKET LEAN
LEAN
PLATE & FLANK LEAN
LEAN
KEY TO RECOMMENDED COOKING METHODS GRILL or BROIL PAN BROIL/ SKILLET
BRAISE/ POT ROAST
LEAN
These cuts meet the government guidelines for lean, based on cooked servings, visible fat trimmed
ROAST
STIR-FRY
INDIRECT GRILLING
SKILLET TO OVEN
* MARINATE BEFORE COOKING FOR BEST RESULTS
A cut of cooked fresh meat is considered ‘lean’ when it contains less than 10 grams of total fat, 4.5 grams or less of saturated fat, andless tahn 95 mg of cholesterol per 100 grams(3½ oz) and per RACC (Reference Amount Customarily Consumed), which is 85 grams (3 oz.)
The Carolina Cattle Connection
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The Carolina Cattle Connection q DECEMBER 2021
NEWS John Deere Continues Support of National Mall by Providing Honor Edition Gator Utility Vehicles for Special Event Support. John Deere, a world leader in providing advanced products and services for customers whose work is linked to the land, has partnered with the Trust for the National Mall to support events on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., including November’s Veterans Day ceremonies commemorating the hardworking men and women of the United States military. The company provided three of their XUV835M Honor Edition Gator Utility Vehicles (Honor Gators) that were used by onsite staff throughout the ceremonies, and one Honor Gator will remain with the National Mall as a donation to support future events. The National Mall is visited by an estimated 36 million visitors a year and hosts some of our nation’s most iconic annual celebrations, including the
National Cherry Blossom Festival, the National Independence Day Celebration, presidential inaugurations, and wreath laying ceremonies on Memorial Day and Veterans Day. John Deere, with support from the Atlantic Tractor dealership, is proud to donate an Honor Gator for use in the planning and execution of these beloved national celebrations and observances on “America’s Front Yard.” John Deere is proud of its long standing work with current military members and their families, as well as veterans. Multiple opportunities within the company exist, including DOD SkillBridge internship opportunities for active duty military members at John Deere dealership and factory locations to help them transition into the workforce full time, nationwide dealer technicians, factory production roles at one of the 16 major facilities in the U.S., and support roles including operations, IT, data
analytics, and engineering. Veterans working at John Deere find themselves having a higher sense of purpose, helping farmers and infrastructure workers feed and shelter the world, a team based environment with a focus on supporting the customer, a neverending desire for improvement, market leading pay and benefits, and a dedicated Military Employee Resource Group to help veterans. “This Veterans Day, John Deere reaffirmed its commitment to the military and our veterans who have sacrificed so much to protect this country,” said Maureen McCormack, Go-to-Market Manager, Gator Utility Vehicles. “Our support of the National Mall will help preserve some of the nation’s most important reminders of our past, while reaffirming our outlook on the future.” The National Mall in Washington, D.C., spans more than 1,000 acres of treasured greenspace and features the iconic monuments and memorials that symbolize our nation and its democratic values. The Trust for the National Mall is the leading nonprofit philanthropic partner of the National Park Service dedicated to restoring, preserving, and enriching the National Mall.
The Carolina Cattle Connection
“Veterans Day is an important time on the National Mall when we reflect on the immense sacrifices that the men and women in our nation’s military have made for our country,” said Catherine Townsend, President and CEO at The Trust for the National Mall. “The Trust for the National Mall is honored to have the continued support of John Deere in caring for America’s Front Yard, and in keeping the nation’s most sacred and historic grounds in pristine condition for all to admire for years to come.” Those interested in the Honor Gator can contact a local John Deere dealer to learn more or place an order. For more information about John Deere and its full line of Gator UV products, visit the John Deere website. For information on John Deere’s military and veteran support efforts, visit the John Deere Career Skills Program page. About John Deere. Deere & Company is a world leader in providing advanced products, technology, and services for customers whose work is revolutionizing agriculture and construction — those who cultivate, harvest, transform, enrich, and build upon the land to meet the world’s increasing need for food, fuel, shelter, and infrastructure. For more information, visit www.JohnDeere.com.
q DECEMBER 2021
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The Carolina Cattle Connection q DECEMBER 2021
NEWS Alltech’s 2020 Sustainability Report underscores its commitment to a Planet of Plenty™. Today’s farmers and producers are striving to provide a rising population with higher quality nutrition while maintaining the utmost regard for environmental and animal welfare. Despite the challenges, Alltech believes that agriculture has the greatest potential not only to meet the global demand but to positively impact the future of our planet. The company’s bold vision of Working Together for a Planet of Plenty™ is reflected throughout the pages of the newly released 2020 Alltech Sustainability Report. “This dawning of a new age in agri-food will require us to continue working together across geographies and industries to create a more sustainable future,” said Dr. Mark Lyons, president and CEO of Alltech. “Agriculture has made extraordinary strides in sustainable production, but the next few decades will be crucial. Our sustainability report demonstrates our ongoing commitment to providing smarter, more sustainable solutions for producers while harnessing the power of collaboration and human ingenuity to create a more promising future.” While Alltech’s Planet of Plenty vision looks toward the future, it’s also rooted in long held values. In 1989, Alltech founder Dr. Pearse Lyons committed to a guiding ACE principle, requiring that the company’s endeavors prioritize the safety and well being of the Animal, the Consumer, and the Environment. Today, Alltech’s vision for a Planet of Plenty propels its founding ACE principle into a new world of possibility. In 2019, Alltech became a signatory of the United Nations Global Compact (UNGC) and committed to nine of the 17 U.N. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including zero hunger, good health and well being, quality education, gender equality, decent work, and economic growth, climate action, life below the water, life on land, and partnerships for the goals. Throughout the 2020 Alltech Sustainability Report, each of the company’s contributions is accompanied by the corresponding UNGC principles and SDG goals. “We compiled our report with input from our teams across the globe,” said David Butler, head of sustainability at Alltech. “I am excited by the level of
energy and enthusiasm shown by our colleagues as they explore the positive impact of their work. Their determination reveals that sustainability is reflected not only in our core business but also within our culture. That purpose driven engagement will help guide our success for years to come.” The report further details how Alltech’s Planet of Plenty Partnerships are creating opportunities for advancing the implementation of science led sustainable practices that improve profitability and animal and environmental welfare. “This year has affirmed the vital importance of collaboration, trusting our scientific experts and welcoming diverse perspectives,” said Dr. Mark Lyons. “Together, instead of leaving a footprint, we can leave a legacy.” Visit www.alltech.com/about/ sustainability to read the 2020 Alltech Sustainability Report. Nominations now open for the IFAJ-Alltech International Award for Leadership in Agricultural Journalism. Award recognizing leadership in agricultural journalism to be presented during the Alltech ONE Conference in 2022. The International Federation of Agricultural Journalists (IFAJ) and Alltech have announced that nominations are open for the IFAJ-Alltech International Award for Leadership in Agricultural Journalism. The award will be presented during the Alltech ONE Conference in 2022. Now in its fourth year, this global award recognizes excellence and leadership demonstrated by young journalists within their IFAJ guilds. The recognition honors Alltech’s late founder, Dr. Pearse Lyons, who was a passionate storyteller with a great respect for agricultural journalists. The award upholds this legacy while keeping an eye toward the future as it supports the next generation of leaders who connect agriculture to a global audience. It’s an endeavor that aligns with Alltech’s vision for a Planet of Plenty™, in which a world of abundance is made possible through the adoption of new technologies, better farm management practices, and human ingenuity within agriculture. “Now more than ever, it is imperative that agriculture has a voice in the conversations occurring about the future of our planet,” said Dr. Mark Lyons, president and CEO of Alltech. “Producers throughout the food supply chain are implementing smarter, more
sustainable solutions to advance animal and planetary welfare, and agricultural journalists ensure these stories are heard. We are proud to continue partnering with the IFAJ in supporting ag journalists who are passionate about the integrity of storytelling and the importance of connecting the stories of farm, field, and food to an increasingly urban society.” Journalists aged 40 years or younger by December 31 can be nominated through their IFAJ guilds via the online application form. A global winner will be selected by an international committee based on their journalistic achievements and the leadership they demonstrate within their guild. The global winner receives complimentary registration to attend the Alltech ONE Conference and will be honored during a presentation. The two organizations have enjoyed a longstanding relationship, having also co-founded a young leader program in 2005 that continues today. “Alltech’s respect for agricultural journalists and commitment to cultivating leadership skills among young reporters has strengthened the profession around the world,” said Lena Johansson, president of the IFAJ. “The company’s
emphasis on the importance of accurate reporting on science and agriculture is more important than ever, and Alltech’s dedication has helped many talented journalists build their careers. It is a pleasure to work with them.” The deadline for nominations is December 22. For more information about the IFAJ-Alltech International Award for Leadership in Agricultural Journalism, contact press@alltech.com. The International Federation of Agricultural Journalists (IFAJ) and Alltech have opened the call for nominations for the IFAJ-Alltech International Award for Leadership in Agricultural Journalism. The award will be presented during the Alltech ONE Conference in 2022. Alltech announces support of mentorship program for women in agrifood. The Women in Food & Agriculture Mentorship Program was inspired by results from an Alltech supported survey on workplace equity. Guided by feedback from the latest Women in Food & Agriculture (WFA) Survey, Alltech is
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a
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q DECEMBER 2021
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Alltech News continued from the previous page converting insight into action by partnering with WFA to connect women from across the agri-food sector with mentors to champion their professional success. The Women in Food & Agriculture Mentorship Program will facilitate meaningful conversations and professional development while also providing a valuable networking experience. “Growing up in the family business, every day was a lesson in leadership,” said Dr. Mark Lyons. “Mentors, including my father (Alltech founder Dr. Pearse Lyons), were an invaluable resource in challenging and championing my personal and professional development. Although the power of mentorship is evident, and even as the future of farm and food becomes more inclusive, nearly 70 percent of women working in agriculture around the world are reporting a lack of access to mentors. Through this unique agri-food mentorship program, women will have the opportunity to cultivate industry connections that will empower their success.” The application process to join the WFA Mentorship Program is open to mentors and mentees through January 31, 2022. Prospective participants can indicate their preferences, such as language, ag sector, and regional location. As male champions are an asset in promoting gender equality, men are invited to apply to be mentors as well. Following the application phase, organizers will match mentorship pairs, who will meet virtually for one hour each month starting in March. This manageable time commitment is intended to support flexibility and accessibility for busy participants. With Alltech’s support, the program is free. “We are delighted to have Alltech’s support of the WFA Mentorship Program,” said Ollie Theocharous, head of content at WFA. “Their partnership will allow us to take the program to the next level as we further our mission to support diversity in the industry.” Alltech believes that inclusion cultivates creativity, drives innovation, and is essential to the company’s vision of Working Together for a Planet of Plenty™. In 2019, Alltech selected Gender Equality as one of the nine United Nations Sustainable Development Goals to which the company committed to advancing. To help guide a course toward meaningful change, Alltech began by listening. In 2019 and 2020, the Alltech supported Women in Food & Agriculture Survey gathered real world insights into the current workplace environment and the outlook for the future. The survey
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The Carolina Cattle Connection q DECEMBER 2021
results now serve as a valuable reference tool for the agri-food industry as it strives to become more inclusive and to create tangible solutions for the challenges facing women in agriculture. For more information, visit www. wfasummit.com/wfa-mentorshipprogram. About Alltech. Founded in 1980 by Irish entrepreneur and scientist Dr. Pearse Lyons, Alltech delivers smarter, more sustainable solutions for agriculture. Our products improve the health and performance of plants and animals, resulting in better nutrition for consumers and a decreased environmental impact. We are a global leader in the animal health industry, producing specialty ingredients, premix supplements, feed, and complete feed. Strengthened by more than 40 years of scientific research, we carry forward a legacy of innovation and a unique culture that views challenges through an entrepreneurial lens. Our more than 5,000 talented team members worldwide share our vision for a Planet of Plenty™. We believe agriculture has the greatest potential to shape the future of our planet, but it will take all of us working together, led by science, technology, and a shared will to make a difference. Alltech is a private, family owned company, which allows us to adapt quickly to our customers’ needs and maintain focus on advanced innovation. Headquartered just outside of Lexington, Ken., Alltech has a strong presence in all regions of the world. For more information, visit www.alltech.com.
N.C. Weekly Auctions Report
(Week ending NOVEMBER 4, 2021) Feeder Cattle - Medium and Large 1-2 Kind Avg. Wt. $/lb Steers 300-400 $126.00 - 172.50 400-500 $124.00 - 160.00 500-600 $120.00 - 151.00 600-700 $110.00 - 143.00 700-800 $110.00 - 134.00 800-900 $98.00 - 123.00 Heifers
300-400 400-500 500-600 600-700 700-800 800-900
$115.00 - 142.00 $108.00 - 130.00 $107.00 - 131.00 $94.00 - 129.00 $86.00 - 112.00 $------- - --------
Slaughter Cows: (over 850 lbs) Breakers (70-80% lean) $55.00 - 63.00 Boners (80-85% lean) $51.50 - 65.00 High Dressing (70-85% lean) $60.00 - 78.00
Source: N.C. Dept. of Agriculture and Consumer Services - USDA Market News, Raleigh, N.C. • 919-707-3156
New NCCA Members for 2021 In 2007, members of the Membership Committee passed a resolution to recognize all NEW members of the NCCA in The Carolina Cattle Connection at the NCCA Annual Conference in Hickory. A new member is defined as someone who has never been a member or someone
who has rejoined after a brief break in membership. The new members are identified in this new members section by name and county of residence. Below is a list of NCCA’s new members for the last month:
Out-of-State Austin Long – WW Livestock Systems Georgia Caldwell County Gunner Marcus – Crooked Creek Cattle Co. Scott Mise – Mise Farm Catawba County Jacquelyn S. Campbell
Farm Credit News AgCarolina Farm Credit Employees Donate to Walk in My Shoes Therapeutic Riding. AgCarolina Farm Credit is proud to announce a $3,000 donation to Walk in My Shoes Therapeutic Riding, Johnston County’s leading therapeutic riding program. The organization’s mission is to provide safe and fun equine assisted activities to all ages. Employees have the option to participate in “A Cause a Quarter” each quarter. The quarterly campaign requires a $25 donation from participating employees to a non-profit voted on by all employees of the association. Participants are able to wear jeans each Friday of the quarter in which they participate. Chosen by employees for the third quarter of 2021 was Walk in My Shoes Therapeutic Riding. With employee and Association contributions, the total donation amount is $3,000. “ A g C a r o l i n a F a r m C r e d i t ’s employees are encouraged to be active participants in their local communities,” said AgCarolina CEO Dave Corum. “A Cause a Quarter is the product of an
employee suggestion and has been a great way for our team to understand how we can all work together to make an impact. There are many great organizations throughout eastern North Carolina doing great things like the folks with Walk in My Shoes. AgCarolina Farm Credit, and its employees, are proud to present these funds to Walk in My Shoes. It is our hope they will continue to grow and make a positive difference for the people in and around Johnston County.” About AgCarolina Farm Credit. AgCarolina Farm Credit is a farmer owned financial cooperative with headquarters in Raleigh. They are the leading provider of credit to farmers in central and eastern North Carolina. AgCarolina Farm Credit has over $1.5 billion in loans and commitments outstanding to nearly 3,000 North Carolina farmers. Loans are made to finance land, homes, farm buildings, operating expenses, livestock, and equipment, as well as other purposes. Credit life insurance, appraisal services, and leasing are also available through AgCarolina Farm Credit.
Pictured from left to right: Eric Shivar – AgCarolina Smithfield Branch Loan Officer, Lisa Massengill – AgCarolina Smithfield Branch Member Support Specialist, Olaf, and Melissa Behan – Walk in My Shoes Therapeutic Riding.
Chatham County Matthew Hubbard Duplin County Wesley Aldridge – W.M. Aldridge Farms Trevor Jones – SJ Farms Ronald Robinson – Red Hawk Ranch Robert & Wanda Sholar – Trebor Farms Hoke County James Parker – Two Green Thumbs Garden-Ranch Lee County Cody Cameron – Cameron Family Farm
The Carolina Cattle Connection
Lincoln County Billy Lynch – Lynch’s Livestock Macon County Cayden Hunter – CR Farms Emily Hunter – Brushy Holler Farms Jacob Pressley – Brushy Holler Farms Nash County Paige Brown – Steel Creek Farms Jack Carpenter – Steel Creek Farms Onslow County Tyler Matthews – Matthews Family Farm & Cattle Orange County John Cooper Person County Lelia Gentry – Heart & Hands Farm Surry County Robert & Nancy Ridge – Wishbone Farm Audie G. Simmons – Stoneybrook Farm Yadkin County Jeanne McLelland – White Oak Farm
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NCBA
President’s Report By JERRY BOHN
National Cattlemen’s Beef Association
Stakes Are High and This is No Time for a One Trick Pony R e c e n t l y, C o n g r e s s h a s — unfortunately — upheld their annual autumn tradition of kicking the can down the road. The passage of the bipartisan infrastructure package has stalled, and talks continue in fits and starts regarding the budget reconciliation bill that Democrats hope will fund major pieces of the Biden administration’s Build Back Better agenda. No matter how dysfunctional this process becomes or what antics are deployed in the eleventh hour, NCBA will not be distracted or turned off course. We will continue to be the adults in the room and advocate ferociously against destructive tax code changes that will harm our family owned farms and ranches. We are speaking with members of Congress and leaders in the administration every day to protect your interests. As our team keeps a close eye on these negotiations, I want to deliver an update on another concern that is understandably the most urgent issue for many of our members — live cattle markets. A top priority right now in our efforts on Capitol Hill is securing full reauthorization of Livestock Mandatory Reporting (LMR.) This federal law requires meatpackers to regularly report information on their transactions, including the price and volume of cattle purchases. It is an essential mechanism for market transparency and antitrust oversight. LMR requires reauthorization by Congress every five years, and it recently approached expiration on September 30. NCBA secured a temporary extension, but we are now working fast to push for full reauthorization before the December 3 deadline. Fair, competitive markets require transparency, and LMR must be a part of the solution. Additionally, in the vein of transparency, NCBA’s newly created Market Information, Transparency, and Reporting Working Group has begun its work following our convention in Nashville this August. They are examining a host of issues related to market dynamics and identifying ways NCBA can improve the level and type
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of information that is available to producers. They will make recommendations to the Live Cattle Marketing Committee at our convention in Houston come February. At USDA, several potential solutions are moving after months of persistent pushing by NCBA and our producers. This summer, the agency opened new grant funding opportunities for small, regional, and independent processing facilities. Earlier this month, USDA also announced they intend to establish a loan guarantee program that will help reduce the risk to bankers and other investors providing financing to these smaller processing facilities. The funds will lower the barrier to entry for producer groups and others looking to build a new plant, expand cold storage, create a co-op to brand and market their product, and more. NCBA’s Vice President Todd Wilkinson touched on these efforts when he testified before the U.S. House Agriculture Committee in October on the state of the livestock industry. Todd is a cow/calf operator based in South Dakota, and he is a fierce advocate for our members. He stressed to lawmakers that NCBA does not want to see a single cent of USDA grants or loans going to the Big Four packers — those funds must go toward expanding capacity where we really need it, namely small and regional facilities that will alleviate the backup in the supply chain and encourage more competitive prices. Todd also emphasized how vital it is to maintain market transparency through measures like LMR. His call to establish a cattle contracts library, which is a widely supported initiative among multiple cattle industry groups, garnered vocal support from both Democratic and Republican members of the committee. If you have not viewed Todd’s testimony in part or in full, I encourage you to locate the video recording on the House Agriculture Committee website or reach out to our policy team for assistance. His words were compelling, he let no false statement go unchallenged, and every lawmaker sat up and took notice of NCBA’s voice.
The Carolina Cattle Connection q DECEMBER 2021
NCBA’s membership encompasses a diverse range of operations. We represent cow/calf operators, and we represent feeders. We represent cattle producers in all 50 states of the country. We represent families who have been on the land for six generations and some producers who are the first in their family to work in agriculture. This wide range of constituents and the wide range of issues making headlines this autumn only underscores the importance of the work we do at NCBA. When news is breaking day-by-day on everything from cattle markets to taxes, WOTUS to wildfires, infrastructure to SNAP
benefits, it takes a nimble and experienced team to pivot and ensure that no conversation takes place without our producers’ views represented in the dialogue. This is no arena for a one trick pony. We take pride in being able to advocate for our members on all the issues that are impacting their operations, not just one issue that plays well in a sound bite. This is the mission you’ve charged us with, and we will continue to keep you informed on our progress. If you have any questions, I encourage you to reach out to our Denver office, Washington office, or your affiliate leadership.
S.C. Beef Council News By ROY COPELAN Thanksgiving was enjoyed by my family, and I trust yours as well. We have a lot to be thankful for these days and times. Now for the last month of this calendar year and a very special month of giving and enjoying the Christmas season. Please remember the real reason for this season is the birth of our Lord and Savior. The Beef Tailgating campaign was again very successful with 14 retail and two foodservice beef promotions, two consumer educational activities, and four youth events. The beef story continues onward. The Holiday Beef Roast campaign started on November 28 and continues through January 2, 2022. Four retail beef promotions are planned around the state. We have a new Holiday Roast brochure to give out to our consumers. Call the state office to have one mailed. The 2022 National Cattlemen’s Convention and Trade Show has been scheduled for February 1-3, 2022, in Houston, Texas. Mark your new 2022 calendar and plan to attend this large convention with fellow cattle producers. After much thought and prayer, I will be retiring from the S.C. Beef Council on December 31. My plans are to enjoy life! Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to you and your family. Until next month…
Beef Promotion and Research Program
PRIVATE TREATY SALES CHECKOFF INVESTMENT FORM Information is required by (7 CRF 1260.201). Failure to report can result in a fine. Information is held confidential (7 CRF 1260.203).
Today’s Date: ________________ Seller’s Name: ____________________________
Buyer’s Name: ____________________________
Address: _________________________________
Address: _________________________________
City: ________________ State: ____ Zip: ______
City: ________________ State: ____ Zip: ______
Seller’s Signature: _________________________
Buyer’s Signature: _________________________
Both the seller & the buyer are responsible for making sure that the $1.50 per head assessment is collected and remitted to the Beef Promotion & Research Board.
Total Number of Cattle Sold: ___________________ x $1.50 Per Head = $ _______________________ Date of Sale: __________________
Person remitting assessment form:
Seller
o
Buyer
o
* State of Origin of Cattle: ______________________
* If the cattle purchased came from another state within the last 30 days, indicate from which state the cattle were purchased.
Send Report and Remittance to:
SOUTH CAROLINA BEEF COUNCIL P.O. Box 11280 Columbia, SC 29211 According to the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, an agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not required to respond to a collection of information unless it displays a valid OMB control number. The valid OMB control number for this information collection is 0581-0093. The time required to complete this information collection is estimated to average 1.8 minutes per response, including the time for reviewing instructions, searching existing data sources, gathering and maintaining the data needed, and completing and reviewing the collection of information. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) prohibits discrimination in all its programs and activities on the basis of race, color, national origin, gender, religion, age, disbility, sexual orientation, marital or family status, political beliefs, parental status, or protected genetic information. (Not all prohibited bases apply to all programs.) Persons with disabilities who require alternative means for communication of program information (Braille, large print, audiotape, etc.) should contact USDA’s TARGET Center at 202-720-2600 (voice and TDD). To file a complaint of discrimination, write USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, Room 326-W, Whitten Building, 14th and Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-9410 or call 202-720-5964 (voice and TDD). USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
The Carolina Cattle Connection
q DECEMBER 2021
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A Message from the CEO By COLIN WOODALL
National Cattlemen’s Beef Association
Membership Has Its Privileges Did you get a phone call from us back in September inviting you to join a tele-town hall to discuss our work on taxes? If not, you are either not a member of NCBA, or we do not have your phone number in our records. Either of these is easily fixed by simply calling us at 303-694-0305 to sign up or update your membership record with the correct phone number. It is important because you are missing out on great opportunities like our tele-town halls. Membership has its privileges and getting insight into one
of our biggest fights is one of them. Tele-town halls are a tool we use to connect with you to discuss hot topics NCBA is working on. We load up all the member phone numbers we have and start dialing. When you answer the phone, you will hear a message that we are about to start a call and to please stay on the line. While it may sound like a robocall, it is actually a chance to hear from NCBA officers and staff. We had more than 4,200 NCBA members join our call and get the latest details on our efforts to protect
IRM Red Books Are Here Due to increased printing costs, the price of the books have increased to $7.00/each this year.
We would like to thank Performance Livestock & Feed Company and Carolina Stockyards for again sponsoring this book. The 2022 version is now available to help cattle producers effectively & efficiently record daily production efforts, which can help enhance profitablity and reduce stress levels. In addition to Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) best practices and proper injection technique information, it has more than 100 pages to record calving activity, herd health, pasture use, cattle inventory, body condition, cattle treatment, A.I. breeding records, and more. It also contains a calendar and notes section. Simply return the order form below, along with $7.00 for each book to: N.C. Cattlemen’s Association 2228 N. Main Street Fuquay Varina, NC 27526 You can now order them through our website at www.nccattle.com/resources/merchandise/red-book-order-form. You can also call our office at 919-552-9111 or email us at kim@nccattle.com.
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you, your families, and your operations from a significant tax increase. NCBA’s tax expert, Danielle Beck, delved into the status of the bi-partisan infrastructure framework and the tax proposals being considered to pay for it. Much of the information Danielle shared was only hours old and could not be found through any other news outlet. As I am writing this, we still hold the high ground on protecting the tax provisions that many of you rely on. We will continue our fight to preserve Death Tax exemptions, the use of 1031 likekind exchanges, the stepped up basis, and more. One of the benefits of membership is a full time staff in D.C. that works days, nights, and weekends to fight for the policy priorities you establish for our association. We are the sole national trade association representing cattle producers to have a full time staff in Washington who are only working on our association’s priorities. You cannot be successful in winning battles in D.C. when you are not there in person. We are there for you. For this tax fight, we are the only national cattle association engaged, but NCBA is not interested in just being engaged; we want to lead. Leading is exactly what Danielle is doing. She has become the agriculture association tax guru that everybody else looks to for information and direction. A great example of this was when the agriculture tax coalition had a call with a member of the House of Representatives who only wanted to hear Danielle’s take because of the reputation she had built by working the Hill constantly for weeks and months on end. That is why you are a member of
this association. While others may spend their time talking, NCBA is out there doing. That is a benefit of membership. This is just one of the many policy issues our team is working on, but it is important to keep in mind that our D.C. work is not the only benefit you get from being a member. NCBA’s Producer Education team is always working to provide educational sessions to help you get even better as a producer. From Cattlemen’s College to our Stockmanship and Stewardship events, our sessions are tailored around providing you with the latest information, techniques, and tools to always stay ahead of the ever-changing world of cattle production. These events can be accessed via monthly webinars, in-person learning events, or at your own leisure through our online archive of video and training seminars. Other membership benefits that many overlook are the discount and incentive programs provided by our corporate partners. I just used my NCBA member discount to buy a new tractor from one of our equipment partners. I saved several thousand dollars simply because I am an NCBA member. That will pay for my membership for a few years to come. NCBA membership has many privileges and benefits you will not get anywhere else. Over the past two years, our membership has grown because of the benefits we provide, the privileges you receive being the first in-the-know on key issues, and having access to NCBA’s staff and services. We are the association winning the battles, so retain your membership, put it on automatic renewal, and ask at least one of your neighbors to join us in our cause.
Be a winner! Join your local cattlemen’s association AND your state cattlemen’s association!
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q DECEMBER 2021
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NCBA News
Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill is a Win for the Cattle Industry. Recently, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act of 2021. The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) is pleased to see the passage of this bill, as infrastructure investments are fundamental to the success of the U.S. cattle industry. NCBA Executive Director of Government Affairs Allison Rivera issued the following statement in response: “The infrastructure package includes several key provisions that NCBA has long advocated for, including funding for the modernization of roads and bridges, funding for high speed rural broadband, congressional commitment to the improvement of the federal permitting process for critical water related investments, and an additional 150 air mile exemption for livestock haulers on the destination of hauls, providing much needed flexibility under current hours-ofservice regulations. “Investing in critical infrastructure is consistent with NCBA’s mission to increase producer profitability. The ability for cattle producers to efficiently raise cattle, haul them safely, and compete in a fast paced global marketplace has a direct link to the economic stability of rural communities and a resilient food supply chain. We look forward to the president signing the bill and stand ready to ensure proper implementation.” NCBA Urges Vilsack to Halt Brazilian Beef Imports. Recently, NCBA called on Secretary Vilsack to immediately suspend all imports of fresh beef from Brazil to the United States. In the letter to USDA, NCBA asked for a suspension until the agency conducts a thorough risk assessment and review of the processes that Brazil’s Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, and Food Supply (MAPA) uses to detect disease and other threats to consumers. NCBA also urged USDA to review Brazil’s veterinary diagnostic laboratory system. “It’s time to keep Brazilian fresh beef out of this country until USDA can confirm that Brazil meets the same consumer and food safety standards that we apply to all our trade partners,” said NCBA Vice President of Government Affairs Ethan Lane.
“NCBA has long expressed concerns about Brazil’s history of failing to report atypical BSE cases in a timely manner, a pattern that stretches back as far as 2012. Their poor track record and lack of transparency raises serious doubts about Brazil’s ability to produce cattle and beef at an equivalent level of safety as American producers. If they cannot meet that bar, their product has no place here,” added Lane. According to reports published by the World Organization for Animal Health (OIE), Brazil took more than eight weeks to report two confirmed cases of atypical bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE). The OIE requires countries to report within 24 hours for any animal disease event that could be of international concern for public health emergencies. After the market devastation of 2003, American cattle producers have worked diligently to protect consumers and restore confidence both at home and abroad. Farmers and ranchers benefit greatly from the demand for beef that is built upon a commitment to integrity, transparency, and the highest scientific standards. The consumer trust that our
producers have worked so hard to build must not be jeopardized by any country that seeks to cut corners or conceal the truth about food safety concerns. Brazilian beef companies must prove that they are worthy of access to American consumers. NCBA Opposes Biden Administration Repeal of NWPR. Recently, NCBA criticized the Biden administration’s repeal of the Navigable Waters Protection Rule (NWPR), which provided regulatory certainty to farmers and ranchers and limited federal overreach. “The NWPR was a solution to the disastrous 2015 ‘Waters of the United States’ (WOTUS) rule that vastly expanded federal jurisdiction over small, isolated water features. NCBA supported the NWPR and was disappointed when it was struck down in court,” said NCBA Chief Environmental Counsel Scott Yager. “With the Biden administration announcing their intent to craft their own WOTUS rule, NCBA will remain engaged with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to ensure that any future rulemaking respects the needs of American cattle producers and their right to make investments in their land and care for their cattle.” Background - Since 1986, the federal government has been attempting to define what water features count as a “water of the United States,” for the purpose of environmental regulation under the Clean Water Act of 1972. In 2015, the EPA and Army Corps of Engineers finalized a widely overreaching WOTUS definition
that placed stock ponds, ephemeral features (water that only flows during rain), grassed waterways, and other isolated bodies of water that impact agriculture under federal control. The 2020 Navigable Waters Protection Rule (NWPR) more appropriately limited federal jurisdiction to substantial bodies of water and was a major improvement to the 2015 WOTUS rule. NCBA defended the NWPR in court on numerous occasions before it was struck down by a U.S. District Court in Arizona in August 2021. As a result of the court decision, the EPA is relying on the pre-1986 rules, meaning cattle producers have experienced three different WOTUS definitions under the law in the past six years. Senior EPA officials, including Assistant Administrator for Water Radhika Fox, have stated that the frequent “ping pong” rule changes need to stop. Today’s repeal of NWPR, unfortunately, perpetuates the regulatory uncertainty that cattle producers have experienced for years, and NCBA looks forward to holding the EPA accountable for creating a limited, fair WOTUS definition. About the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association. NCBA has represented America’s cattle producers since 1898, preserving the heritage and strength of the industry through education and public policy. As the largest association of cattle producers, NCBA works to create new markets and increase demand for beef. Efforts are made possible through membership contributions. To join, contact NCBA at 866-BEEF-USA or membership@beef.org.
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The Fake Meat Debate — Where NCBA Stands and How We are Fighting for Farmers and Ranchers Cattle producers work hard to produce safe, affordable, and nutritious beef. Consumer trust and demand for high quality beef have been cultivated through decades of hard work, which led to continual improvement of production practices and the product itself. We know that it is infuriating when new food trends falsely disparage the product that you and your family have taken pride in producing for years, all in an attempt to bolster demand for their own fake beef products. Therefore, NCBA is fighting for regulations that protect consumer health and well being, prevent false and deceptive marketing, and ensure a level playing field for real beef products to compete on. Is Fake Meat Gaining Popularity Among Consumers? While fake meat companies have touted the up and coming
notoriety of their brands and shared that their products are gaining popularity over real meat, it’s critical to keep two things in mind. First, these companies are start ups fiercely competing against one another for seed funding from Silicon Valley, and inflating the popularity of their products is a calculated maneuver aimed at garnering greater investments and public acceptance. Second, NCBA is fighting on behalf of cattle producers to ensure there are sound policies and regulations in place that appropriately differentiate real beef from all fake meat products. The sudden uptake in conversation around alternative proteins does not mean that real beef products are losing market share — in fact, it’s the opposite. “The claims being made by activistdriven organizations regarding massive
2022 Spotlight Issues Schedule Most of the breed associations in North and South Carolina have stepped forward and renewed their contracts for Spotlight sections in The Carolina Cattle Connection for 2022. If your breed is not featured as a Spotlight section and you would like to inquire on any open months please feel free to contact me. Below is the tentative schedule for the upcoming year.
2022 Reserved Spotlight Issues
JANUARY FEBRUARY MARCH APRIL MAY JUNE JULY AUGUST SEPTEMBER OCTOBER NOVEMBER DECEMBER
CHAROLAIS FORAGES ANGUS -------------------------BRAHMAN HEREFORD GELBVIEH SIMMENTAL SANTA GERTRUDIS --------------------------------------------------RED ANGUS
For more information about your breed’s Spotlight Issue, contact:
The Carolina Cattle Connection 2228 N. Main Street • Fuquay-Varina, NC 27526 919-552-9111 • mail@nccattle.com PAGE 60
The Carolina Cattle Connection q DECEMBER 2021
investments in alternative protein companies are vastly misleading and don’t accurately represent what’s actually going on,” said NCBA Senior Executive Director of Government Affairs Danielle Beck. “Comparing a relatively new product to an industry that’s grown and evolved over centuries is like comparing apples to oranges. When you’re looking at growth rates for a newer industry that’s starting out from zero, of course that growth is going to appear rapid and massive. But the reality is that beef substitute sales still represented less than 1 percent of the market in 2020.” United States cattle and beef producers have spent decades making significant investments in animal welfare and innovative conservation practices to produce the highest quality beef in a sustainable manner and, in return, capture increased consumer demand. In 2020, 98 percent of households reported buying real meat products, according to the Power of Meat study conducted by the Foundation for Meat and Poultry Research Education and FMI – The Food Industry Association. “Make no mistake, U.S. beef is in high demand by consumers,” Beck said. The same study also found that last year, meat grocery sales grew more than 19 percent. In fact, 43 percent of Americans now buy more meat than they did before the COVID-19 pandemic. “During the pandemic, it wasn’t rare to walk into a grocery store and see the beef shelves completely empty, but the shelves with fake meat products were fully stocked. In challenging times, consumers turned to the product they knew they could trust – beef,” Beck explained. What’s What in the World of Fake Meat? To understand the alternative meat market, it’s important to first and foremost understand the difference between plantbased products and cell cultured products. “We must keep in mind that plant based and lab grown alternative proteins are distinctly separate products; both are ‘fake meat’ but the two are oftentimes conflated in mainstream media coverage,” Beck said. Plant based products are made entirely from highly processed, plant based sources and seek to mimic real beef in every way, including taste, smell, texture, appearance, and even cooking experience. These products have been available to consumers for decades but, in recent years, the developers of these products have turned to marketing strategies that target real meat eaters and
vilify real beef products in an effort to grow their market share. Cell based products, commonly referred to as lab grown meat, are made using novel cell culture technologies in a controlled environment to manufacture a product that is biologically similar to meat. These products are not currently available to consumers in the United States. How Are These Products Regulated? Real beef products are subject to strict regulations overseen by the United States Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (USDA-FSIS) to ensure that consumers can have confidence in the beef they are purchasing. However, the regulatory process for alternative proteins does not always fall under the same stringent rules, causing concern amongst beef producers who are rightfully frustrated by deceptive labeling of these products. For plant based products, the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FFDCA) delegates the Food and Drug Administration with oversight of all plant based products, unlike real beef regulated by USDA FSIS under the Federal Meat Inspection Act (FMIA). FFDCA has very clear misbranding provisions almost identical to those under FMIA. For example, a food shall be deemed to be misbranded for the following reasons: • if its label is false or misleading, • if the food is offered for sale under the name of another food, or • if it’s an imitation of another food unless the product label bears the word “imitation” immediately before the food name in lettering that is of uniform size and prominence. Unfortunately, the authors of the FMIA and FFDCA could not have predicted Jetson-esque technologies such as meat grown in a petri dish. In 2019, FDA USDA adopted a formal agreement establishing a dual oversight framework for lab grown protein products as a direct result of NCBA’s advocacy. The agreement delineates responsibilities by way of “pre-harvest” versus “postharvest” activities, with FDA asserting oversight “through the time of harvest” and USDA FSIS assuming jurisdiction over harvested cells that are intended for use in meat or poultry products. Under this agreement, USDA FSIS is expected to protect consumers by ensuring these products are held to the same rigorous food safety and production standards as real beef products, and USDA’s mandatory labeling pre-approval process will theoretically guard against deceptive
labeling practices. Even though USDA FSIS adopted this agreement, the Agency has yet to enact any official rulemaking. How is NCBA Fighting For Cattle and Beef Producers? “Cattle producers aren’t afraid of competition, and as an industry, we certainly welcome consumer choice,” Beck said. “However, it’s important that fake meat is labeled in a way that accurately describes the product. Instead of equipping consumers to make informed choices about their food purchases, fake meat companies are using misleading claims and fear mongering to sell their products and achieve their ultimate goal of ending animal agriculture.” NCBA has long advocated for regulatory processes that provide transparency to consumers and respect the integrity of real beef products. We support legislative and regulatory strategies that will allow alternative protein products to appropriately differentiate themselves in the market without compromising the
reputation of beef. However, the current regulatory structure of plant based, fake meat products are not properly enforced and is too ambiguous to allow for meaningful protection of real beef products. “In the case of plant based products, the FFDCA grants FDA sole regulatory authority regarding misbranded products, but it’s clear that FDA remains unwilling to enforce the law as it stands,” Beck explained. “Because of FDA’s unwillingness to enforce the current law, NCBA supports efforts to codify a standard of identity for the term ‘beef,’ as well as efforts to bring USDA into the fold in terms of product oversight.” Cell based products are still in the development stages; therefore, formal labeling or manufacturing oversight standards have not yet been established. While the 2019 agreement still stands, in September, USDA FSIS published an advance notice of proposed rulemaking (ANPR) to solicit comments and
From the Desk of the SCCA President By ROSCOE KYLE First off, I hope everyone had a safe and satisfying Thanksgiving this past month. It always seems that no matter what may be going on in the world, the holidays always bring people together. I want to wish all a safe and enjoyable Christmas season, and don’t forget the real meaning of the Christmas event we celebrate. This is also the time of the year that we, as livestock producers, are looking after the fall crop of calves and trying to ensure they have a good start in life. Remember that if you take care of your stock, they, in turn, will take care of you. The whole herd needs that TLC we provide. This means making sure the waters don’t freeze, hay is the best we can afford, and that the animals get a full ration of nutrients so they can maintain body condition. This past month I had business that carried me to all parts of the state, and as I traveled, I got to thinking how beautiful our state is, even in different ways. I know some people think it is not fall till they drive up to the mountains and see the change of the colors. But what a lot of us miss is what is right in front of our face here in our great state. So the next time you think you need to drive two hours north, just take those two hours and travel around in the area you live in and notice things we often overlook. As the days get shorter and the nights longer, we have more time to work in the shop and clean, work on repairing the equipment that we have, and hash over if we really need to replace something. The main thing to remember is SAFETY because most of us do it by ourselves, and it only takes a simple chore to turn into disaster. The state association will be holding our annual meeting in Clemson on February 4-5, 2022, along with the Clemson Bull Sale. I hope all who wish to attend can. More info will be forthcoming from the Extension Director. Just a reminder to have your smoke detectors checked along with your heating units, so we don’t have any mishaps this winter. Let’s all hope and pray that Mother Nature is kind to us this season and allows all to enjoy the holidays. Have a safe Christmas and Happy New Year. Remember the words of Albert Einstein, “Education is what remains after one has forgotten what one learned in school.” As always, I remain respectfully yours.
information regarding the labeling of cell cultured meat and poultry products. They are seeking to gather information regarding consumer expectations of labeling, appropriate names for the products, economic data, and consumer research. This will inform an eventual rulemaking at USDA. NCBA is committed to working with USDA and lawmakers on Capitol Hill to
ensure the most favorable outcome for the U.S. beef industry. Our comments will be supported by research and will reiterate the message we have been saying for years: Alternative protein companies should not be allowed to misinform consumers through deceptive marketing practices. The term “beef” should only be applicable to products derived from livestock raised by farmers and ranchers.
Beef Checkoff News New Advocacy Program Blazes Trail for Beef. Driving the demand for beef starts at the grassroots with a strong network of advocates willing to share beef’s positive message. The new Trailblazers program, developed by the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA), a contractor to the Beef Checkoff, takes advocacy to the next level by giving participants the tools and training they need to promote beef to new audiences while addressing and correcting myths. “Trailblazers is a competitive, highly engaging and interactive program that is developing the next generation of beef advocates,” said Chandler Mulvaney, director of grassroots advocacy and spokesperson development at NCBA. “The goal of this program is to empower the beef community to share their stories, which ultimately helps safeguard the work of cattle farmers and ranchers across the country.” Trailblazers is looking for its first class of spokespeople to participate in a year long hands-on program designed to train, equip and empower beef advocates. Selected candidates will receive training to become expert communicators, excel in media interviews, and understand how to build confidence in beef related practices when talking to consumers. Each year, 10-12 new Trailblazers will be selected to create a tight knit community that works together to find solutions to social and practical issues impacting the beef community. Throughout the year, Trailblazers will receive advanced in-person and virtual training from subject matter experts, learning how to effectively engage on various social media platforms, interact with the media, and enhance public speaking skills. Upon completion of
The Carolina Cattle Connection
the program, Trailblazers will serve as industry spokespeople and inform beef advocates at the local and state levels on advocacy, media, and spokesperson best practices. The application process for the inaugural class of Trailblazers is now open. For more information and to apply, scan the QR code below. About Trailblazers. The Checkoff funded Trailblazers program was created in 2021 to support the efforts of the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, a contractor to the Beef Checkoff, in identifying, recruiting, empowering, and engaging with advocates in the beef community. The program will provide a train-the-trainer model to support state beef councils and partner organizations in mobilizing a cadre of spokespeople who are equipped to have tough conversations and seek solutions in telling the beef story. About the Beef Checkoff. The Beef Checkoff Program was established as part of the 1985 Farm Bill. The Checkoff assesses $1 per head on the sale of live domestic and imported cattle, in addition to a comparable assessment on imported beef and beef products. States retain up to 50¢ of the dollar and forward the other 50¢ per head to the Cattlemen’s Beef Promotion and Research Board.
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NEWS Getting Your Cow Herd Ready for Winter and Calving. Chilly mornings and brisk weather mean one thing. Winter is coming. The struggles that come with winter include increased feed inputs and gearing up for calving season. Here are three steps you can take to get your cow herd ready for winter and calving. All will play a critical role in how successful your calving season is, and ultimately, your profitability will be. 1. Plan ahead and be prepared Planning ahead and being prepared for the approaching winter and upcoming calving season is one of the simplest and most effective things that you can do to reduce future headaches and improve your odds of success come calving. Make sure all aspects of winter preparation are in line. This includes things such as shelter from the elements, bedding, water (not frozen), feed and supplements, ability to move cows to where they can be assisted if necessary, adequate and properly working fences and gates, veterinary supplies for calving difficulties, and animal health products (colostrum supplements, electrolytes, antibiotics, etc.). Being prepared and providing a comfortable environment for cows, calves, and yourself to work in goes a long way towards both animal health as well as peace of mind. 2. Make sure cows are carrying enough condition - When calves are weaned in the fall, often those cows are at a lower body condition score because of nursing all summer. When those cows
begin to calve a few months later, if they’re in poor body condition, they can lack the physical strength they need to ensure easy calving and to get a live calf on the ground promptly. Cows that experience calving difficulties or an extended delivery not only pose a greater risk on the health of the cow and calf but also generally take longer to return to estrus and get rebred. Therefore, it’s important cows enter calving season at an optimal body condition score (BCS) of a 5.5-6.0, so they’re better able to withstand the rigors of calving at a time where mother nature may not be especially forgiving. 3. Provide cows proper nutrition before calving - Many challenges arise when calving, with scours being a major contributor. Calf scours are the most common cause of disease and death in calves during the pre-weaning period and may oftentime cause more financial losses to cow/calf producers than any other health problem in their herds. As a result, a robust and properly functioning immune system is the most effective strategy in combating calf scours in the first place. As you get closer to calving, it’s critical that you get cows on an adequate plane of nutrition. Ensure proper nutrition in the dam during the last six weeks of pregnancy. Cows in good condition whose nutrient needs are being met are better able to produce a sufficient amount of high quality colostrum. Improved colostrum quality means improved immunity in calves. Calves that do not receive adequate, high quality colostrum
Effect on Passive Transfer of Immunoglobulins
Kinal et al., 2007
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shortly after birth typically have lower serum immunoglobulin levels. When this occurs, calves are much more susceptible to disease challenges, including scours. Data shows when you provide an immune support postbiotic feed additive daily beginning six weeks prior to calving, those cows can produce higher quality colostrum, thereby improving passive immunity in the calves and reducing failure of passive transfer (Kinal et al., 2007). Incorporating an immune support feed additive can also help support robust digestive health by balancing rumen microbiota and optimizing the rumen environment. Optimum rumen function translates into better performing cows and calves that are more capable of reaching their genetic potential. As colder temperatures creep closer, be sure your cow herd is ready for
winter and calving. By planning ahead, making sure cows are in adequate body condition, and providing proper nutrition, you’ll be taking the right steps to ensure this upcoming calving season goes smoothly, with healthier calves, improved rebreeding, and fewer headaches. About Diamond V. Diamond V is a leading global animal health business based in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Diamond V conducts research in many species and manufactures natural (as defined by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO)) immune support products for animal health, animal performance, and food safety worldwide. Global headquarters and all Diamond V manufacturing is located in Cedar Rapids. More than 75 years of science, innovation, technology, and quality have earned Diamond V the reputation of The Trusted Experts in Nutrition and Health®.
NEWS Premier Select Sires Scholarship Opportunities Total $20,000 in 2022. Premier Select Sires will award up to $20,000 to students within the Premier territory through the 2022 Premier Future Ag Leaders Scholarship Program. Two exemplary students will receive $2,500 scholarships through either the Johnny Daniel Memorial Scholarship or the Wayne Dudley Scholarship. Several other students will receive scholarships of $750-$1,000 in value. Scholarship application forms are available under the “News” tab of www.premierselectsires.com, by calling 570-836-3168, or by emailing office@premierselect.com. Completed scholarship applications are due January 31, 2022. Eligible students include high school seniors through college seniors presently enrolled or planning to enroll in an undergraduate agriculture related major. The student or his/her parent or guardian must reside in the Premier membership area and must be an active Premier customer in good standing. Previous scholarship winners remain eligible during subsequent award years; however, a student can only receive a $2,500 scholarship once in his/her school career.
The Premier Future Ag Leaders Scholarship Program provides financial support to eligible college undergraduates in agricultural majors. The program provides additional return to the cooperative’s member-owners by supporting the next generation of young people desiring to study and work in the agriculture industry. The Premier Select Sires, Inc. board of directors has made a commitment to providing money to support this scholarship program on an ongoing annual basis. About Premier Select Sires. Premier Select Sires is a farmer owned cooperative that serves beef and dairy producers in its 23 state member area. Dedicated to providing its members with all they need to achieve success, Premier provides industry leading genetics from the Select Sires, Accelerated Genetics, and GenerVations brands; effective herd health and management products, as well as artificial insemination supplies; reliable services and programs backed by years of success; and knowledgeable industry experts who are easily accessed for consultation, advice, and on-farm assistance. Together with its five sister cooperatives across the United States, Premier owns and controls Select Sires Inc., the world’s most recognized name in bovine genetics.
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q DECEMBER 2021
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NEWS Experienced Cattlemen Relies on Amaferm Advantage 24/7. With nearly half a century in the cattle business, Steve Groves has learned from his experiences, both good and bad. But when he learned about the advantages that a precision prebiotic offered his herd from conception through weaning, that was one experience he wasn’t going to let slip away. In fact, he believes in the Gain Smart weaning program combined with the VitaFerm program for his cows so much; he became a BioZyme dealer so he could share the results with his peers and neighbors. “I can’t stress enough what Amaferm does for a cow. Increasing absorption of what you are feeding them, it is just helping them do a better job,” said the self proclaimed Amaferm guru who has been in the cattle business for 47 years. Groves owns River Bend Cattle at Garland City, Arkansas. At just 300 feet elevation, in the southwest corner of the state, the cow/calf producer and BioZyme dealer said that Amaferm is one of the main reasons he switched his mineral to the BioZyme products. Amaferm is a precision prebiotic that is designed to support digestive health. It is research proven to increase intake, digestion, and absorption.
The Weaning Advantage - Groves is a firm promoter of the three step Gain Smart program when he weans his calves. He gives them all a dose of Vita Charge Cattle Drench at weaning time and then starts them on the Vita Charge Stress Tubs and Gain Smart mineral. “Gain Smart is really economical on my calves. I have had awfully good results. No sickness. Their health is right where it should be. I don’t worry about consumption for the first 30 days. They will usually slow down,” Groves said. If he feels his calves are overconsuming their Gain Smart, he will put salt at the bottom of the feeder, so they have to eat the mineral first, then eat some salt for a few days before he refills the feeder with mineral. He always felt like different types of grass made them crave salt. Groves will ship his calves in early July when they reach about 800 pounds. Since they are getting fleshy, he switches them to Gain Smart Stocker HEAT around May 1. He said the cattle continue to eat well and gain well for those last two months, even at heavier weights with the HEAT package, which helps them maintain their core body temperature while supporting performance and gain in
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The Carolina Cattle Connection q DECEMBER 2021
heat and fescue situations. Amaferm for the Herd - Groves has shortened his calving window to 60 days since using the VitaFerm products. He calves in January and February, so his cows start on the VitaFerm Concept•Aid 5/S in December and are on that mineral until late April or early May when they switch to VitaFerm HEAT. They consume HEAT until mid-October and then eat Cattlemen’s Blend until December when they start back on the Concept•Aid 5/S. Groves said he initially started solely using the Cattlemen’s Blend mineral, and he experienced a slight increase in his conception rates. He decided to try the VitaFerm Concept•Aid 5/S to see if he could take it up one more notch. He said he did. In addition to his commercial cow herd, Groves puts embryos in about 60 cows each year, and he knows how easy it is for those cows to lose a calf, and if they lose a calf, they are out everything. “I will do anything I can to hold that embryo. We’ve had great results with the VitaFerm Concept•Aid,” he said. Sharing the Message - Groves does not run eared cattle but instead settles for a mix of Red Angus and Simmentals; however, he does cull for heat tolerance since the heat and humidity do take a toll on the cattle in his climate. He said he would hate to think about running cattle – both cows and stockers without the HEAT minerals he uses. With the results he has seen in his own herd and his passion for Amaferm, he said it just made sense that he started selling the BioZyme products. Groves said some producers just “look over the fence” at what he’s doing and then ask questions. Another group of progressive producers, much like he, try the products and proclaim that they “don’t know how they got by without them for so long.” “I have people always asking me how I can calve in a 60 day window? To me, it is the most economical thing about raising cows is to keep the calving window short, so I can feed all my cows the same. If I have one dry cow and I have to feed her with the wet cows for four or five months, that costs money and she gets too fat,” he said. Amaferm’s absorption benefit is the tie that binds all the BioZyme products together to deliver the whole package to Groves and his customers. From breeding to calving and weaning and beyond, he is a believer in products from VitaFerm to Vita Charge and Gain Smart. He knows his cattle are healthier and higher performing because of these programs. To learn more about the Gain Smart weaning program or the Amaferm advantage found in the BioZyme products, visit www.gainsmart.com.
Why Quality Cow Nutrition is Vital Pre-Calving. Calving time is much anticipated across the country. It’s a time of renewal; it’s time to see how those mating decisions panned out and to watch those cows turn into maternal miracles for another season. Preparing for calving season doesn’t just happen by getting some fresh bedding and making sure your calf pullers are nearby and clean, “just in case.” Progressive producers start getting their herd ready for calving at least 60 days in advance by making sure their cows in late gestation are getting the best nutrition possible. A complete mineral package in the last 60 days prior to calving provides your cows with the added nutrients they need for reproductive success, including lactation. In addition to assisting the cow with her health and additional requirements, the calf is receiving pass through nutrients from its mother, resulting in healthier calves with more vigor at birth. VitaFerm Concept•Aid is a line of vitamin and mineral supplements formulated for beef cattle and designed to support quick repair of the reproductive tract and more energy for reproductive success when fed 60 days pre-calving through 60 days post breeding. The Concept•Aid products contain high concentrations of Vitamin E and organic trace minerals. The Amaferm advantage provides increased nutrient absorption and digestion, leading to healthier and heavier calves giving you added performance from the time the calves hit the ground. Research has also shown that Amaferm increases the energy available to the animal resulting in more milk production as well as to the ability to initiate and maintain pregnancy and fertility. By providing your cows with this premium nutrition 60 days pre-calving, you are amping up essential nutrients needed for reproductive success at calving. Not only is calving and lactation a stressful time on the mama cow, but it is also the time when her nutrient requirements are the highest all year. Why not take a proactive approach to add essential nutrients prior to when they are truly needed? VitaFerm Concept•Aid contains 2.5 times the NRC for quicker impact and organic trace minerals for more stability and higher bioavailability. Furthermore, higher levels of Vitamin E allow for quicker reproductive tract repair post calving. Another benefit of VitaFerm Concept•Aid is cows that clean out more quickly. “We’d been looking for a good
mineral. We were having some issues with retained placentas, and heifers that weren’t cleaning as well as we had thought they should, so we thought we’d try a real good mineral. We feel that we’ve seen a difference there. We’ve been really happy with the VitaFerm Concept•Aid,” said Kevin Bennett, a Hereford breeder from Benton, Wisconsin. Perhaps one of the biggest advantages of feeding this quality mineral to cows prior to calving is the increased health and performance of their calves. Calves are typically healthier at birth and, due to increased milk from their healthier mamas, grow faster and more efficiently. “We experienced scours, coccidiosis, weak calves, cows that wouldn’t breed; you don’t even know all the problems I had. One year we lost 35 calves. Since I switched to VitaFerm our cattle are just nicer. Nice hair coats on them, healthy, and calves that are healthy when they are born and stay healthy. Think of the live calves I am taking to the sale barn. I am saving bull calves that I can sell for $3,800-$4,000 and selling registered heifers for $1,200-$2,000. Look at the calves that I’m saving and having the availability to sell. It’s just a no brainer,”
said Angus breeder Wade Wilson of Watford City, North Dakota. Live calves, healthier calves, growthier calves. Cows that produce milk and clean their placentas. Those are things that make calving a happier time on cattle operations across the country. A good calving season starts with quality nutrition and comes down to performance that pays. That’s part of the Amaferm advantage that is found in VitaFerm Concept•Aid. Start the program 60 days pre-calving and experience the difference. To find out more about the variety of VitaFerm Concept•Aid formulas or to take a short quiz to find the right one for you, visit www.VitaFerm.com. A Bigger Plan Paves Path to Agriculture Passion. “We can make our plans, but the LORD determines our steps.” Proverbs 16:9. Perhaps no other verse is more fitting for one former softball player turned future agriculture teacher. Growing up in Rockingham County, Virginia, the most abundant ag county in the state, it might seem natural for a young person to be involved in 4-H or FFA, especially if she was growing up on her family’s farm. Kendall Knicely had other plans
that included eventually going to college on a softball scholarship. Her family’s legacy was also rooted in athletics. Her great uncle made it to the major league, and his jersey hung in her high school gym. Knicely was the pitcher for her competitive team until one tournament when her health took a turn for the worse. “Back in 2011, I was at a softball tournament, and I got really ill and had a lot of weird symptoms like nausea and couldn’t eat and was losing weight. My mom was my coach for my team, and she thought this was really odd, so when we got back home, we scheduled some doctor appointments, and they couldn’t figure anything out. They just thought it was acid reflux. That was the end of that,” said Knicely, who was just 11 at the time. A very sick athlete and mom were determined to get answers, so they traveled from Virginia to Children’s Hospital in Philadelphia, where they got them. A diagnosis of a congenital heart birth defect revealed that her aorta would compress her esophagus every time it would pump blood to the size of a pin needle down at the bottom, which is why Knicely couldn’t eat very much and why it would hurt to breathe when she
The Carolina Cattle Connection
exercised. “At that point, my symptoms had become so severe, I had to quit softball. There was really no way, especially as a pitcher, with my aorta connected directly to my arm, I could continue to do that. They did tell me I could have surgery, but there was only a 50 percent survival rate, so my mom immediately shut that down,” Knicely recalls. Turning Point - As an active young person, Knicely wasn’t about to sit around and mope. She started researching other activities in her hometown of Bridgewater that could keep her busy. That is when she read about 4-H. One of her friends who lived on a dairy farm was involved in the youth program, so she decided it would be a good way to spend time with her and make other new friends. When she learned she needed to take a project, she proposed the idea of a sheep project to her mom, although her family only raised cattle. She started with two Suffolk lambs and never looked back. “Their names were April and May.
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BioZyme News continued from the previous page I had them, and I absolutely loved them and that became my next passion, so much that I begged my grandfather to buy them back for me at the fair so I could breed them for next year’s project. He agreed. So next year, I had a bredand-owned project, and I did that until my senior year. When I started showing sheep, agriculture became my passion,” she said. Agriculture gave Knicely a new lease on life. She became involved in FFA in middle school and credits both her middle school FFA advisor Mike Long and a high school ag teacher Codi Jo Wheelbarger, who had served as a state FFA officer, for encouraging her in her passion for agriculture and FFA. “Once I became old enough, in middle school, to join FFA, I did that immediately. As soon as I put on the blue jacket, I just felt like I found my home. Like this was my calling and purpose,” Knicely said. Slipping on the blue jacket wasn’t
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enough. Knicely found herself completely immersed in FFA, and she continued to raise and show sheep. She enjoyed being around like minded, hardworking people her age who shared a passion for agriculture. In fact, she enjoyed FFA so much, she decided to run for a state office at the encouragement of Wheelbarger. As she prepared to run for state FFA, she had one more challenge that most young people preparing for a high-caliber leadership post don’t worry about. In 2018, she had closed heart surgery at John Hopkins to correct her birth defect. She said that having the procedure was nerve wracking for both her and her mom, as she was preparing to run for a position that would require so much time on her body, traveling the state of Virginia. However, her surgery and her preparation paid off, and she was named to the 2018-2019 Virginia FFA State Officer Team, along with eight other people who she became close with. She traveled the state with them, talking
The Carolina Cattle Connection q DECEMBER 2021
to other young FFA members about agriculture, leadership, and personal development. They even traveled to South Africa on a once-in-a-lifetime trip. “I liked being around other liked minded people with a passion for agriculture, and it wasn’t judgmental. It was so welcoming and inclusive. This is where I was supposed to be and where I belonged. FFA has had such a profound
Global animal nutrition leaders and financial experts join roundtable to support sustainability in the beef supply chain. Zinpro, the global leader in trace mineral nutrition and performance, has joined forces with organizations such as WWF, Zoetis, and Cargill as part of a worldwide network of people and organizations powering progress in sustainable beef – the Global Roundtable for Sustainable Beef (GRSB). With over 50 years of experience in advancing animal health, productivity, and well being, Zinpro joins GRSB to encourage the continuous learning and adoption of best practices in disease prevention and treatment measures, as well as quality nutrition, across the supply chain, and support them on their overall mission to ensure the beef value chain is a net positive contributor to nature by 2030. The Global Roundtable for Sustainable Beef brings together all value chain partners, from farm to plate, to support and invest in the continuous improvement of cattle health and well being. Zinpro joins a growing number of organizations committed to bettering the global beef supply chain as part of GRSB. They follow Chicago Mercantile Exchange (CME), a world leading derivatives marketplace operating in agriculture and ESG, and Archers-Daniels-Midland (ADM), who develop natural ingredients to support livestock nutrition. Ruaraidh Petre, Executive Director of the Global Roundtable for Sustainable Beef, said: “We are thrilled to welcome Zinpro, alongside members CME and ADM, as we continue to grow our influence across the beef value supply chain worldwide. Their joining is a sign of the growing momentum within the beef industry to protect and nurture the earth’s natural resources.
impact on my life. This is where I want to be, and what I want to commit the rest of my life to doing. It has truly changed my life,” Knicely said. The Future - “As I look back on my life. I thank God for getting me through it. I’m really blessed to be where I am today,” Knicely said. “I know everything happens for a reason. And I’m so thankful and glad I’ve had the experiences I had,
News
“With the commitment of these companies and their wealth of experience, our organization can continue to exchange knowledge and expertise, champion best practice, and ultimately improve the global food system for all.” Terry Ward, Zinpro Global Director of Sustainability, said, “At Zinpro, we are extremely pleased to have joined GRSB, whose values and goals closely align with our own. We look forward to utilizing our over 50 years of experience and innovation within the animal nutrition and health industries, to support education and power progress in the improvement of cattle health and well being.” The new members follow the announcement of GRSB’s global sustainability goals in June, which include reducing the net global warming impact of beef 30 percent by 2030, ensuring the beef value chain is a net positive contributor to nature by 2030 and increasing the adoption of animal health and welfare best practices so that cattle are provided with an environment in which they can thrive. About the Global Roundtable for Sustainable Beef. The Global Roundtable for Sustainable Beef (GRSB) is a worldwide network of the people and organizations powering progress in sustainable beef. Across its global roundtable and 12 regional roundtables, GRSB has over 500 members working in 24 different countries. Collectively, its members are responsible for more than 2/3 of cross border beef trade. GRSB powers progress in sustainable beef by setting ambitious goals around reducing greenhouse gas emissions, improving land use and animal welfare. To help achieve these goals, GRSB champions best practices, facilitates the exchange of knowledge, and fosters a collaborative approach.
and honestly, I’d do it over again because this is my calling and everything is in God’s timing and everything has a reason, a purpose behind it.” She has decided her purpose is to make an impact on young people with a passion and an interest in agriculture, just like she did, and she wants to ignite that passion early on. Knicely is currently a senior at Virginia Tech, studying Agricultural Sciences with a minor in Leadership and Social Changes. She hopes, after she graduates in May 2022, to find a job as a middle school or junior high ag teacher and FFA advisor. “I just want to give students an opportunity to find their place and flourish. I want to help them reach their goals and become the best version of themselves. The best version of themselves is already inside them, I just want to help unlock that potential because I know my ag teachers did that for me,” she said. Our future isn’t always ours to decide. With an open mind and faith, the possibilities are endless. For one
little star softball player, her fate was forever changed by a broken heart, but she followed her heart and her faith to a future where she wants to help others succeed. That’s better than pitching a no hitter any day. About BioZyme ® Inc. BioZyme Inc., founded in 1951, develops and manufactures natural, proprietary products focused on animal nutrition, health, and microbiology. With a continued commitment to research, BioZyme offers a complete line of feed additives and high density, highly available vitamin, mineral, trace mineral, and protein supplements for a variety of animals, including cattle, pigs, poultry, sheep, goats, horses, and dogs. BioZyme brands include Amaferm ®, VitaFerm®, Vita Charge®, Sure Champ®, Vitalize®, DuraFerm®, and Backyard Boost™. With headquarters in St. Joseph, Missouri, the company reaches a global market of customers that stretches into countries across five continents. For more information about BioZyme, visit www. biozymeinc.com.
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Retreading NEPA Reforms Another electric environmental issue this season has been the resurrection of the debate over the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). NEPA was first enacted in 1970 to “create and maintain conditions under which man and nature can exist in productive harmony.” While intended to provide a blueprint for assessing the environmental impacts of proposed actions on the part of the federal government, it has since become a regulatory slog that often outweighs any potential environmental benefits. Cattle producers undergo NEPA reviews for many reasons. Common examples include the renewal of federal grazing permits, construction of rangeland improvements, or to determine eligibility for certain USDA programs and benefits. Because the policy had not been substantively updated in 35 years, the process has become so onerous and inefficient that something simple like grazing permit renewal can take four years or longer to complete. Beyond the direct impact on
livestock production, NEPA was also exploited to block projects such as fence and road building on federal lands. NEPA even prevented important environmental projects, like the installation of water features on a federal grazing allotment, fuels management projects to mitigate the risk of catastrophic wildfire, and critical soil stabilization activities after a fire occurs. That all changed when the Trump administration took steps to improve the timing, scope, and delivery of NEPA in 2020. “Put simply, NEPA prior to 2020 did not work,” Glover explained. “The review process became so bloated over the course of its 50-year history that basic tasks to safeguard natural landscapes were impossible to accomplish. This inefficiency created a lot of uncertainty for producers, who were unable to predict what projects on their operation might get approved years down the road.” NCBA has consistently urged policymakers to update NEPA to address these challenges. As a result of our continued efforts, the White House Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) published finalized guidance to update the NEPA process in July 2020. These changes returned NEPA’s focus to the process — scope of activities and
their associated impacts, how long an assessment should take, and how agencies should coordinate on the process. The guidance also instructed agencies to use the simplest process first. All of these changes made NEPA more precise, timely, and efficient — yielding benefits both for our producers and for the long term health of our environment. Now, the Biden administration has announced their intention to roll back the 2020 reforms and start from scratch with a comprehensive review and revision of NEPA guidance. “When there’s a change in administration, we expect some of this box checking of campaign promises,” Glover said. “We expect some gestures to turn over policy and reflect new priorities. However, just because we expect it doesn’t make it any more functional or practical for the people actually impacted by these regulations. Perpetually repealing and replacing guidance — especially rules that were crafted after months of collaborative work between federal agencies, cattle producers, environmental groups, and state leaders — adds to this sense of uncertainty.” What’s our next move? As the administration reverses progress from
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the 2020 rulemaking, NCBA will participate in the public comment period and continue having proactive conversations with the administration to push for a process that is timely, predictable, and considerate of the economic impact of proposed decisions. The Solid Ground - The portfolio of environmental issues that NCBA works on has been tumultuous lately. The administration is moving quickly — in many directions — to secure wins on paper. NCBA’s focus is always on protecting the viability of our producers’ businesses and sharing the excellent story we need to tell on conservation and stewardship. Even more basic than that, however, is our work to just get some solid ground for folks to stand on. A volatile, unpredictable regulatory landscape undermines not only the economic stability of agricultural producers but also their very compliance with the environmental standards the administration wants to promote. We need clear rules and regulatory certainty.
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2021 S.C. State Fair Beef Cattle Shows Report By STAN CLEMENTS The 2021 S.C. State Fair beef cattle open shows were held October 21-22 in Columbia, South Carolina. Dr. John Rayfield of Lubbock, Tex., sorted the 149 head in the 11 breed shows. Exhibitors came from North Carolina, Florida, South Carolina, and Ohio. Dr. Blake Bloomberg of Berwick, Ill., evaluated the 100 head junior show comprised of 11 breeds.
Junior grand champion Charolais female – Hannah Wooten of Starr, S.C.
Junior reserve champion Hereford female – Ted S. Bourne III of Greenwood, S.C.
Junior grand champion SimAngus female – John Davis III of Iva, S.C.
Junior Show Winners
Junior grand champion Angus female – Amberlyn Christenbury of Starr, S.C.
Junior reserve champion Angus female – Jacob Carnes of Iva, S.C.
Junior grand champion Crossbreds and All Other Breeds female – Elli Harmon of Leesville, S.C.
Junior reserve champion Crossbreds and All Other Breeds female – Cody Clary of Saluda, S.C.
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Junior reserve champion Charolais female – Hannah White of Greenwood, S.C.
Junior grand champion Gelbvieh/Balancer female – Cody Clary of Saluda, S.C.
Junior reserve champion Gelbvieh/Balancer female – Hannah Wooten of Starr, S.C.
Junior grand champion Hereford female – Gracie Simpson of Starr, S.C.
The Carolina Cattle Connection q DECEMBER 2021
Junior grand champion Red Angus female – Morgan Marlett of Laurens, S.C.
Junior reserve champion Red Angus female – Rhett Mullens of Iva, S.C.
Junior grand champion Shorthorn female – Hadleigh Corcoran of Van Wyck, S.C.
Junior reserve champion Shorthorn female – Cade Simpson of Iva, S.C.
Junior reserve champion SimAngus female – Cody Clary of Saluda, S.C.
Junior grand champion Simmental female – Lillian Wilkins of Blacksburg, S.C.
Junior reserve champion Simmental female – Lillian Wilkins of Blacksburg, S.C.
Junior grand champion Zebu Breeds and Crosses female – Anna Grace Cross of Cross Hill, S.C.
Open grand champion Charolais female – Hannah Wooten of Starr, S.C. Junior reserve champion Zebu Breeds and Crosses female – Carson Derrick of Lexington, S.C.
Open grand champion Gelbvieh/Balancer female – Hannah Wooten of Starr, S.C.
Open reserve champion Hereford bull – Wayne Garber of Laurens, S.C.
Open reserve champion Charolais female – Hannah White of Greenwood, S.C. Junior grand champion steer – Tori Templeton of Saluda, S.C.
Junior reserve champion steer – Lillian Wilkins of Blacksburg, S.C.
Open reserve champion Gelbvieh/Balancer female – Cody Clary of Saluda, S.C.
Open grand champion Red Angus female – Rhett Mullens of Iva, S.C.
Open grand champion Crossbreds and All Other Breeds female – Carly Rhodes of Iva, S.C. Open reserve champion Hereford female – Marcie Harward of Richfield, N.C.
Open reserve champion Red Angus female – Cody Clary of Saluda, S.C.
Open reserve champion Crossbreds and All Other Breeds female – Cody Clary of Saluda, S.C.
Open grand champion Hereford female – Marcie Harward of Richfield, N.C.
Open grand champion Red Angus bull – Morgan Marlett of Laurens, S.C.
Open grand champion Gelbvieh/Balancer bull – Justin Ridenhour of Salisbury, N.C.
Open grand champion Hereford bull – Ted S. Bourne III of Greenwood, S.C.
Open grand champion Shorthorn female – Hadleigh Corcoran of Van Wyck, S.C.
Open Show Winners
Open grand champion Angus female and Supreme Champion – Audrey Kate Bolt of Anderson, S.C.
Open reserve champion Angus female – Marcie Harward of Richfield, N.C.
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Cattlemen’s Beef Board Update By GREG HANES, Cheif Executive Officer
Open reserve champion Shorthorn female – Cade Simpson of Iva, S.C.
Open reserve champion Simmental female – Lillian Wilkins of Blacksburg, S.C.
Open grand champion Shorthorn bull – Tori Templeton of Saluda, S.C.
Open grand champion Simmental bull – Brandon Weber of Alachua, Fla.
Open grand champion SimAngus female – John Davis III of Iva, S.C.
Open grand champion Zebu Breeds and Crosses female – Nathan Barlowe of Lenoir, N.C.
Open reserve champion SimAngus female – Robbie Sand of Alachua, Fla.
Open reserve champion Zebu Breeds and Crosses female – Jackie Phillips of Eagle Springs, N.C.
The Zodiac and the Beef Checkoff In the Chinese Zodiac, 2021 is known as the Year of the Ox. The Year of the Ox occurs every 12 years and is a year of ambition, relationships, and luck. According to the zodiac, it’s a year that, with some hard work, should end well. In a producer’s world, every day is defined by the Ox (cattle), with ambition, relationships, and even some luck playing an important role. While the Year of the Ox is considered good, producers don’t want to rely on astrology for success. They want, and need, consistency and something that will work reliably for them. So, as part of the 1985 Farm Bill (ironically, another Year of the Ox), they developed and passed the Beef Checkoff program. Producers wanted a better way to promote their product, and the producers who constructed the Beef Checkoff did what they did with intent. They didn’t design the program to be untouchable or inaccessible to the folks paying into it. They wanted producers (and beef importers) to touch it daily…to operate it, control it, scrutinize it. It was built to serve all producers equally, regardless of operation size or type. Cow/calf, feeder, dairy, veal, and others all benefit from the Checkoff’s tireless work to grow demand and protect beef’s livelihood and viability in an increasingly competitive protein arena.
The program’s creators carefully crafted it to increase demand for beef through promotion, research, and education…nothing more. Could they have made it a fierce policy dragon? Perhaps. But policy rarely satisfies everyone, so they kept the Beef Checkoff wisely siloed and left the policy battles for lobbyists and membership organizations to fight. Some view the Checkoff ’s “promotion, research, and education” role as simplistic or ineffective, but the founders knew that when wielded properly, these are powerful tools. Does anyone recall the Checkoff ’s crisis management efforts during the BSE outbreak…or the Checkoff funded muscle profiling research to increase overall carcass value? And there’s a reason beef exports topped a billion dollars in August for the first time in history. Would that have happened without the Checkoff promoting U.S. produced beef in 80 countries worldwide? It might be easy to sit back and criticize the Beef Checkoff for what it does or doesn’t do, but it was built to keep serving its producers and importers through projects and initiatives of their choosing. It will continue to do this with promotion, research, and education…and maybe even some ambition, relationships, and luck for good measure.
I got a great buy in the Classifieds in The Carolina Cattle Connection!
Open grand champion SimAngus bull – Robbie Sand of Alachua, Fla.
Open grand champion Miniature Zebu female – Isla Kirby of Greer, S.C.
Check out the expert A.I, superior genetics, fine purebreds and terrific farm supplies offered! Open grand champion Simmental female – Brandon Weber of Alachua, Fla.
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The Carolina Cattle Connection q DECEMBER 2021
NEWS
Expanded Use and New Name for 200 Day Cattle Implant From Zoetis. Synovex® One Grower approved for pasture and feedyard cattle. Zoetis recently announced Synovex One Grower as the new trade name for the long duration cattle implant producers have known as Synovex One Grass. The name Synovex One Grower represents the newly expanded label for use in both pasture cattle intended for slaughter and also in feedlot cattle, as recently approved by the Food and Drug Administration’s
Center for Veterinary Medicine. “This implant is now labeled to provide up to 200 days of increased daily gain in steers and heifers on pasture and in feedyards,” said John Hallberg, DVM, Ph.D., U.S. director of regulatory affairs, Zoetis. This means that effective immediately, and until Synovex One Grower is available from animal health product suppliers, cattle producers can use existing packages of Synovex One Grass in feedlot steers and heifers on grass or in the feedlot.
S.C. Cattle Receipts, Trends, and Prices for the Month of OCTOBER0 2021 Cattle Receipts: 11,378
•
Previous Month: 14,976
Feeder supply - 34% steers • 42% heifers • 24% bulls SLAUGHTER CLASSES
“The performance benefits of Synovex One long duration cattle implants have been demonstrated on pasture for up to 200 days since its original approval in 2015,” said Gary Sides, Ph.D. nutritionist, Beef Strategic Technical Services, Zoetis. “Now, this research proven implant provides a flexible option, no matter the type of operation — from stockers to feedyards — in steers and in heifers, delivering increased gain and enhancing profitability.” Synovex One Grower contains trenbolone acetate and estradiol benzoate in six small pellets that are coated with a patented sustained release polymer to extend performance for up to 200 days. This provides up to twice the duration of conventional implants. “We know this uniquely formulated long duration implant has been delivering results safely and effectively for cattle raised on pasture,” Dr. Sides said. “We are excited to offer customers the flexibility to now use it for growth performance in feedlot steers and heifers.” Through its Driven to Care long term sustainability initiative, Zoetis is committed to innovations that can help livestock producers reach their sustainability goals and continue to
produce more with less. “United States cattle producers are among the most efficient and productive in the world,” Dr. Sides said. “We are pleased to provide Synovex One Grower and are thrilled to offer another solution producers can use to add value along each step of the beef supply chain.” Packaging for Synovex One Grower will replace Synovex One Grass in the marketplace in 2022. The addition of Synovex One Grower expands the implant portfolio options from Zoetis. To learn more about Synovex implants, visit www.NoStressSynovex.com. About Zoetis. As the world’s leading animal health company, Zoetis is driven by a singular purpose: to nurture our world and humankind by advancing care for animals. After nearly 70 years innovating ways to predict, prevent, detect, and treat animal illness, Zoetis continues to stand by those raising and caring for animals worldwide — from livestock farmers to veterinarians and pet owners. The company’s leading portfolio and pipeline of medicines, vaccines, diagnostics, and technologies make a difference in over 100 countries. In 2020, Zoetis generated revenue of $6.7 billion with ~11,300 employees. For more, visit www.zoetis.com.
Avg. Wt. Price Cows - % Lean Breaker 1,505 $59.76 Boner 1,215 $61.31 Lean 949 $58.89
Bulls - Yield Grade 1-2
1,699
$86.71
FEEDER CLASSES
FEEDER STEERS (Medium and Large 1-2) Wt. Range Avg. Wt. CWT Avg. Price 400-450 420 $146.74 $616.31 450-500 476 $144.81 $689.30 500-550 518 $145.56 $754.00 550-600 572 $137.53 $786.67 600-650 619 $132.73 $821.60 650-700 673 $127.22 $856.19
FEEDER BULLS (Medium and Large 1-2) Wt. Range Avg. Wt. CWT Avg. Price 400-450 421 $144.49 $608.30 450-500 468 $142.20 $665.50 500-550 520 $136.49 $709.75 550-600 569 $129.29 $735.66 600-650 622 $126.62 $787.58 650-700 667 $121.60 $811.07
FEEDER HEIFERS (Medium and Large 1-2) Wt. Range Avg. Wt. CWT Avg. Price 400-450 419 $128.73 $539.38 450-500 473 $127.18 $601.56 500-550 518 $124.22 $643.46 550-600 561 $122.11 $685.04 600-650 621 $118.06 $733.15 650-700 672 $114.62 $770.25
Source: S.C. Dept. of Agriculture - USDA Market News Service, Columbia, S.C. - 803-737-4491
Wilkes Livestock Exchange 106 Armory Road • PO Box 2146 North Wilkesboro, NC 28659 Phone: 336-838-3442 • Fax: 336-838-3591 Weekly Sales - Wednesdays - 1:30 p.m. Take-up Tuesday Evenings
Catching and Hauling Services Available
Shelmer Blackburn, Jr.
919-270-1522 • shelmerblackburn@hotmail.com
Seth Church
336-927-5370 • sethchurch@charter.net The Carolina Cattle Connection
q DECEMBER 2021
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NEWS Four Ways to Reduce Parasite Resistance on Your Operation. ”We cannot continue to rely on today’s deworming products to solve all parasite problems, because parasite resistance is real and it’s going to outpace the development of new cattle dewormers,” said Ray Kaplan, DVM, University of Georgia. As scientists continue researching the possibility of new parasiticides, the cattle industry must look for ways to preserve the efficacy of those already on the market. “You used to be able to administer a dewormer, and regardless of whether cattle got the full dose or not, or if it was administered incorrectly, worms were so susceptible to the product that it didn’t matter,” said Dr. Kaplan. “As parasites continue to evolve and become resistant to dewormers, adhering to deworming best practices will be more important than ever.” D.L. Step, DVM, Boehringer Ingelheim, couldn’t agree more. “It’s imperative that the cattle industry takes proactive measures now to maximize the effectiveness and value of dewormers for years to come.” Implementing a more sustainable deworming program on your operation can lead to increased herd productivity, reduced risk of parasite resistance, and lasting dewormer efficacy. To achieve these benefits, Drs. Kaplan and Step encourage producers to work with a local veterinarian to implement four key protocols: 1) Diagnostic testing - Performing
MACROCYCLIC LACTONES (Endectocides)
routine diagnostic tests will help you assess the effectiveness of your deworming program and determine the number of animals to leave untreated. Your veterinarian can advise you on the proper method, assist you with conducting these tests, and help decipher test results. 2) Combination treatment - Using two dewormers from different drug classes has been proven to reduce fecal egg counts in cattle herds by nearly 99 percent.1 When high efficacy like this is achieved, there are also fewer resistant parasite survivors to cause trouble down the road. “If you’re looking to boost cattle performance and productivity, combination treatment can be a great option,” said Dr. Step. “By administering a parasiticide from two different classes at the same time, you maximize efficacy and control more parasites — reducing the risk of developing parasite resistance in your herd.” Commonly used cattle dewormers can be divided into two categories, depending on their chemical structure (see Figure 1), and combination treatment requires using one dewormer from each: Macrocyclic lactones (endectocides) come in both injectable and pour on formulations. The active ingredients within these dewormers cause nerve paralysis of internal and external parasites. Macrocyclic lactones provide longer duration control of parasites compared to benzimidazoles. Benzimidazoles (white dewormers) are administered orally and act as a
January
February
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Darlington Laurens
Drug Class Includes Ivermectin Eprinomectin Doramectin Moxidectin
Known For - Convenient injectables and pour ons - Internal and external parasite control - Control lasts longer (see each label)
BENZIMIDAZOLES (White Dewormers) Drug Class Includes Oxfendazole Fenbendazole Albendazole
Known For - Oral dose with rapid “purge effect” - Controls internal parasites only - Efficacy lasts no longer than 2 days
Figure 1. Commonly used cattle dewormers can be divided into two classes, depending on their chemical structure.
purge dewormer to internal parasites. These dewormers interfere with the microtubules of the parasites, which depletes the energy supply and eventually causes the death of the parasite. Benzimidazole dewormers are usually in and out of the system within a couple of days. Dr. Kaplan adds that there is one caveat to combination treatment that producers should be aware of. “You don’t want to use combination treatment in a low refugia situation because it will promote rapid multiple drug resistance. The simplest way to not worry about this issue is to leave a group of animals untreated every time you deworm.” 3) Refugia - Refugia, where a percentage of the herd is selectively not dewormed, is recognized as the single most important factor in delaying the onset of parasite resistance. Leaving a portion of the parasite population in “refuge” from dewormers reduces the drug resistance selection pressure caused
2021 South Carolina Sale Barn Cattle Receipts
by the dewormer. “A common question I get asked is ‘how much refugia is enough?’ and unfortunately the answer is different for every producer,” said Dr. Kaplan. “The percentage of animals to leave untreated is totally dependent on the efficacy of the deworming product you’re using. This is where diagnostic testing and working with your veterinarian become especially important.” 4) Pasture management - Limiting overgrazing, maintaining appropriate forage heights, and rotating pastures are all ways to reduce parasite loads in your pastures and to limit the number of parasites that get ingested by the cattle. “The way we manage our pastures and forages in terms of grazing has a significant impact on how much exposure to parasites our cattle are going to have,” said Dr. Kaplan. “If cattle are grazing on pasture that’s very low to the ground, they’re going to be ingesting many more parasites since most of the parasites are in
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
308
1,104
919
726
1,454
651
2,076
2,044
1,084
1,090
581
2,432
1,283
866
1,433
915
1,584
2,346
1,300
1,194
1,325
1,964
1,593
1,373
1,892
1,461
1,731
2,048
1,702
830
786
1,123
1,187
959
1,066
651
1,583
940
1,330
Saluda
2,056
1,355
3,094
2,482
2,324
3,099
1,761
3,256
3,096
2,389
Williamston
2,812
1,313
2,792
2,255
1,949
1,884
2,033
2,880
2,349
2,073
Orangeburg
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The Carolina Cattle Connection q DECEMBER 2021
October
November
December
the bottom two inches of the forage.” “Following sustainable deworming best practices will benefit your cattle herd and the future of our industry,” concluded Dr. Step. “Be sure to consult with your herd veterinarian to evaluate and customize a deworming program to your individual operation.” Reference 1 Paras K., Georgia M., Howell S., et al. Prevalence of gastrointestinal nematode resistance to ivermectin anthelmintics on beef cattle operations in Georgia. In Proceedings: 2017 AABP Annual Conference: 201. About Boehringer Ingelheim. Improving the health and quality of life of patients is the goal of the research driven pharmaceutical company Boehringer
Ingelheim. The focus in doing so is on diseases for which no satisfactory treatment option exists to date. The company, therefore, concentrates on developing innovative therapies that can extend patients’ lives. In animal health, Boehringer Ingelheim stands for advanced prevention. Boehringer Ingelheim is the second largest animal health business in the world. We are committed to creating animal well being through our large portfolio of advanced, preventive healthcare products and services. With net sales of $4.4 billion and around 10,000 employees worldwide, we are present in more than 150 markets. For more information, visit www.boehringeringelheim.com/animal-health/overview.
! S E T A UPD Registration Now Open for Cattle Industry Convention in Houston. The 2022 Convention Expected to be Biggest Ever. Registration is now open for the 2022 Cattle Industry Convention & NCBA Trade Show, which will be “Gone to Texas” in Houston on February 1-3. The annual event draws thousands of cattlemen and women from across the country for education, entertainment, and engagement. “Everything is bigger in Texas,” and that holds true for the 2022 Convention. For the first time, there will be five general sessions packed with timely industry updates, inspirational speakers, and important information that every producer can use. And the NCBA Trade Show will be the largest ever, encompassing 9.7 acres of exhibitors, displays, and educational opportunities all under one roof. Convention attendees will gain insights on current market trends during the CattleFax Outlook Seminar, hear a “State of the Industry” update from NCBA leadership, and recognize Regional Environmental Stewardship Award Program recipients and Beef Quality Assurance Award winners. Participants will also enjoy networking opportunities and entertainment throughout the event, including a special Wednesday evening social and Cowboy Comedy Club on Thursday. The convention will be preceded
by the 29th annual Cattlemen’s College, which is famous for stimulating and thought provoking sessions. This event will begin on January 31, with afternoon sessions and live animal demonstrations, followed by an evening reception. It will continue on February 1 with 15 educational sessions offered in the morning and conclude with a keynote presentation and lunch. In addition to experiencing a wide variety of education and entertainment opportunities, producers will be hard at work guiding both Beef Checkoff and NCBA policy programs. Annual meetings of the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA), the Cattlemen’s Beef Board, American National CattleWomen, CattleFax, and National Cattlemen’s Foundation will also take place. “This is the first time that the convention will be held in Houston, and I’m looking forward to experiencing all the city has to offer,” said NCBA President Jerry Bohn of Kansas. “I encourage producers to join me in Texas for the biggest convention yet.” A variety of registration options are available, including the popular family pack, which offers a $100 discount on the purchase of two full registrations combined with two student registrations. For more information and to register and reserve housing, visit https://convention. ncba.org/.
Carolina Cooking Parmesan Crusted Strip Roast Total Time - 2 hours, 15 minutes 1 beef Strip roast (about 3-4 pounds) ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley 3 tablespoons minced shallots ½ cup panko or rustic bread crumbs Salt and pepper Preheat oven to 325°F. Combine cheese, parsley, and shallot in a food processor; process until finely ground. Transfer to medium bowl; stir in panko. Press panko mixture evenly onto all surfaces of beef roast. Place roast, fat side up, on rack in shallow roasting pan. Insert ovenproof meat thermometer, so tip is centered in the thickest part of beef, not resting in fat. Do not add water or cover. Roast in 325°F oven 1¼-1½ hours for medium rare; 1½ to 1¾ hours for medium doneness. Remove roast when meat thermometer registers 135°F for medium rare; 145°F for medium. Transfer roast to carving board; tent loosely with aluminum foil. Let stand 10-15 minutes. (Temperature will continue to rise about 10°-15°F to reach 145°F for medium rare; 160°F for medium.)
Carve roast into slices; season with salt and pepper, as desired. Makes 8 servings.
Parmesan Crusted Strip Roast
Any news from your county? Be sure to share your meetings, sales, field days, etc., with your fellow cattlemen through the Connection! The Carolina Cattle Connection
q DECEMBER 2021
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...
LASSIFIED PUREBRED CATTLE B REEDERS BACK CREEK ANGUS
Joe and Robin Hampton
www.huntsbrangus.com Calhoun, GA 770-548-7950
345 Withrows Creek Lane Mt. Ulla, NC 28125
704-880-2488
Angus
Black Crest Farm
W.R. “Billy” McLeod
C. A. H.
AUTO • HOME • LIFE BUSINESS • FARM & RANCH
Jim Traynham Wingate, N.C. 704-233-5366 Cell - 704-292-4217
Brent Glenn, DVM Lancaster, S.C.
Carolinas Animal Health, LLC
“Cattle with Something Extra”
REGISTERED POLLED HEREFORDS • EST. 1998 “Quality Cattle For Quality People”
Cattle Available Private Treaty
1320 Old Manning Rd., Sumter, SC 29150
John Wheeler • 910-489-0024 doublejfarm@yahoo.com • www.doublejfarmllc.com
williammcleod@ftc-i.net • www.blackcrestfarm.com
Headquarters - 775 Clacton Circle • Earlysville, VA 22936 Cattle located in Traphill, N.C.
803-481-2011
INSURANCE
ANIMAL H EALTH
803-789-7000
The Josey Agency, Inc. Douglas Josey Multi-Line Agent
Cell: 803-385-8161 Email: djosey@truvista.net
519 Morgan Mill Rd., Monroe, NC 28112 704-289-5083 • 704-289-1696 • 800-222-8638
Nationwide On Your Side®
Phone: 252-257-2140 Mobile: 252-430-9595 ®
James S. Wills • The Wills Agency LLC Primary Agent/Owner Master Farm Certified
555 West Church Street Batesburg, SC 29006 3200 NC Hwy. 58 • Warrenton, NC 27589 NCAL #1468 • NC#C#4264 • VAL #146 • SCAL #3895 Email: ebharris@ebharris.com www.ebharris.com
Breeding Registered Angus since 1962
Walter D. Shealy III and Family
20977 US Hwy 76 • Newberry, SC 29108 Walter Shealy • 803-924-1000 Dixon Shealy • 803-629-1174 walter@blackgrove.com • dixon@blackgrove.com www.blackgrove.com
MEAT PROCESSING
BEEF • PORK • LAMB • GOAT
QUALITY GELBVIEH, ANGUS, & BALANCER CATTLE
DUANE & WENDY STRIDER, OWNERS
Duane Cell: 336-964-6277 • Wendy Cell: 336-964-5127 Home: 336-381-3640 • Fax: 910-428-4568 ccrosscattle@yahoo.com • ccrosscattle.com
APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE - Call Today!
YOUR AD HERE!
• Custom Labeling • Value Added Product • Retail Packaging
336-628-4949
PiedmontCustomMeats.com
THE HERD THAT CONSISTENTLY PRODUCES CATTLE WITH PERFORMANCE, CARCASS, AND EYE APPEAL.
SPRINGFIELD ANGUS 104 Springfield Lane Louisburg, NC 27549
Phil Goodson: 919-880-9062
• Performance Tested • Ultrasound and 50K Evaluated • Registered Angus Bulls
Autryville, NC 28318 www.howardbrosfarms.com
Darryl Howard Cell: 910-990-2791
KEEP POSTED FOR UPDATES ON THE
ALL Regular Copy
2022 Tarheel Angus/4K Farm Production Sale
for the
RICHARD KIRKMAN, DVM 20416 US 64 West Siler City, NC 27344-0350
JANUARY ISSUE by DECEMBER 5!
919-742-5500 • rdkirkman@centurylink.net
FOR SALE
BBU Registered Beefmaster Bulls and Females
WHITEHALL BEEFMASTERS Joe and Ann Logan 214 Cowhead Creek Road Greenwood, SC 29646
Telephone: 864-538-3004
Jonathan Massey
336-260-2565 • jonathan.massey2@gmail.com
Johnny Massey
336-214-4144 • johnnymassey.1@gmail.com
LET THIS SPACE MAKE $$$ FOR YOU! PAGE 74
Telephone: 803-532-3390 Cell: 864-554-4658 Fax: 803-532-0615 james@twainsurance.com
Inc. / Auctioneers
BLACK GROVE
The Carolina Cattle Connection q DECEMBER 2021
®
Agribusiness
AUCTIONEERING Ernest B. Harris President
2610 Kee Moore Drive Chester, SC 29706
ALL Spotlight Material for the
JANUARY ISSUE by DECEMBER 1!
NDEX OF 4th Annual Harward Sisters Cattle Company Bull & Female Sale ..... 40 13th Annual EBS Farms Select Bull & Female Sale ............................ 20 2022 IRM Red Books .......................................................................... 56 4K Farms/Tarheel Angus .................................................................... 74 46th Annual Clemson Bull Sale ........................................................... 30 46th Annual Union County Performance Tested Bull Sale .................... 44 70th Annual N.C. Cattlemen’s Association Conference — SAVE THE DATE ........................................................................ 52 Alltech — BioPlex® Sel-Plex® .............................................................. 50 American National Insurance — The Josey Agency ............................ 74 Apple Brandy Prime Cuts ..................................................................... 8 Back Creek Angus .............................................................................. 74 Benton’s Hay Farm ............................................................................. 59 Biltmore Livestock — Angus .............................................................. 28 BioZyme - VitaCharge ........................................................................ 65 Black Crest Farm ................................................................................ 74 Black Crest Farm 24th Annual Production Sale ................................... 25 Black Grove Angus ............................................................................. 74 Brubaker Family Angus ...................................................................... 74 Bull Hill Ranch 11th Annual “More Bull For Your Buck” Production Sale ................ 7 C-Cross Cattle Company .................................................................... 74 Carolinas Animal Health ................................................................... 74 Childers Concrete Company, Inc. ....................................................... 17 Conquest Insurance Agency, Inc. ....................................................... 42 CPC Weather Pro ................................................................................ 50 Double J Farms .................................................................................. 74 E.B. Harris Auctioneers, Inc. .............................................................. 74 First Choice Insurance — Donna Byrum ............................................. 14 Fowken Farms .................................................................................... 35 FPL Foods ........................................................................................... 17 Fred Smith Company Ranch ............................................................... 74 Hay-B-Gone Hay Mover/Un-Roller ....................................................... 5 Howard Brothers Farms ..................................................................... 74
For Your Advertising Needs, Contact: The Carolina Cattle Connection 919-552-9111 The Livestock Advertising Network 859-278-0899
DVERTISERS Hunt’s H+ Brangus ........................................................................... 74 John Deere ........................................................................................ 48 Kuhn Equipment Company ............................................................... 49 March Madness Cattle Sale of the Carolinas ...................................... 43 N.C. Angus Association Directory …................................................... 21 N.C. Cattlemen’s Association Membership Application .................... 53 N.C. Forage & Grassland Council Winter Conference Series .............. 13 N.C. Hereford Association Directory ................................................. 34 N.C. Meat Suite .................................................................................. 11 N.C. Simmental Association .............................................................. 32 National Beef Checkoff/ North Carolina Cattle Industry Assessment .................................. 9 National Cattlemen’s Beef Association 2021 Policy Priorities & Membership Application ....................... 58 National Cattlemen’s Beef Association Membership Benefits ...........57 Nationwide® AgriBusiness Insurance — The Wills Agency ................ 74 Pearson Livestock Equipment ........................................................... 64 Performance Livestock & Feed Company .......................................... 38 Piedmont Custom Meats ................................................................... 74 Premier Select Sires — Young Guns ................................................... 63 Red Angus Association of the Carolinas Directory .............................. 4 Ridgefield Farm — HELP WANTED ..................................................... 66 Rusty Thomson & Family Cattle Fencing and Equipment ................... 22 Saluda County Cattlemen’s Association 30th Annual Replacement Heifer Sale .......................................... 45 SimAngus Solution ........................................................................... 74 South Carolina Private Treaty Sale Checkoff Investment Form ......... 55 Southeast Livestock Exchange — Upcoming Sale Schedule ............... 36 Southern States ................................................................................ 37 Springfield Angus ............................................................................. 74 The Barn Loft — Gallagher Scales & MiraFount Waterers .................. 39 The Carolina Cattle Connection 2022 Spotlight Schedule .................. 60 The Carolina Cattle Connection Advertising Rates & Sizes ................ 49 Tokeena Angus 28th Annual Bull & Heifer Sale ................................... 27 Virginia Herd Health Management Services — Pat Comyn, DVM ....... 51 Watauga Butchery ............................................................................. 23 West End Precast — Feed Bunks ......................................................... 67 West End Precast — Feed Bunks & Troughs ........................................ 46 Whitehall Beefmasters ...................................................................... 74 Wilkes Livestock Exchange ............................................................... 71 Yon Family Farms Spring Sale ............................................................ 29 The Carolina Cattle Connection
q DECEMBER 2021
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VENTS ANGUS Dec. 3 — Knoll Crest Farm Total Performance Bull Sale, Red House, Va. Dec. 4-11 — Lane Angus Farm Annual Bull Sale Dec. 4 — N.C. BCIP Waynesville Bull Test Sale, Canton, N.C. Dec. 4 — Smith Creek Angus Farm On-Farm Bull Sale, Norlina, N.C. Dec. 4 — 6th Annual The Pounds & Profit Sale, Snow Camp, N.C. Dec. 4 — 46th Annual Union County Performance Tested Bull Sale, Monroe, N.C. Dec. 11 — Springfield Angus Bull Sale, Louisburg, N.C. Dec. 17 — N.C. BCIP Butner Bull Test Sale, Oxford, N.C. 2022 Jan. 1 — 13th Annual EBS Farms Select Bull & Female Sale, Norwood, N.C. Jan. 22 — 4th Annual Harward Sisters Cattle Company Annual Production Sale, Norwood, N.C. Jan. 19 — Tokeena Angus 28th Annual Bull & Heifer Sale, Seneca, S.C. Feb. 5 — 46th Annual Clemson University Bull Sale, Pendleton, S.C. Feb. 12 — Black Crest Farm 24th Annual Production Sale, Sumter, S.C. Feb. 19 — Yon Family Farms Spring Sale, Ridge Spring, S.C. Feb. 26 — Saluda County Cattlemen’s Association 30th Annual Replacement Heifer Sale, Saluda, S.C. Mar. 12 — March Madness Cattle Sale of the Carolinas, Chester, S.C. Apr. 9 — Knoll Crest Farm Spring Bull & Female Sale, Red House, Va. Charolais Dec. 4 — N.C. BCIP Waynesville Bull Test Sale, Canton, N.C. Dec. 4 — 6th Annual The Pounds & Profit Sale, Snow Camp, N.C. Dec. 11 — 19th Annual Charolais Source Bull Sale, Chester, S.C. 2022 Jan. 22 — 4th Annual Harward Sisters Cattle Company Annual Production Sale, Norwood, N.C. GELBVIEH Dec. 3 — Knoll Crest Farm Total Performance Bull Sale, Red House, Va. Dec. 4 — 46th Annual Union County Performance Tested Bull Sale, Monroe, N.C. 2022 Feb. 5 — 46th Annual Clemson University Bull Sale, Pendleton, S.C. Feb. 19 — Yon Family Farms Spring Sale, Ridge Spring, S.C.
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Feb. 26 — Saluda County Cattlemen’s Association 30th Annual Replacement Heifer Sale, Saluda, S.C. Apr. 9 — Knoll Crest Farm Spring Bull & Female Sale, Red House, Va. HEREFORD Dec. 3 — Knoll Crest Farm Total Performance Bull Sale, Red House, Va. Dec. 4 — N.C. BCIP Waynesville Bull Test Sale, Canton, N.C. Dec. 17 — N.C. BCIP Butner Bull Test Sale, Oxford, N.C. 2022 Feb. 5 — 46th Annual Clemson University Bull Sale, Pendleton, S.C. Feb. 26 — Saluda County Cattlemen’s Association 30th Annual Replacement Heifer Sale, Saluda, S.C. Mar. 12 — March Madness Cattle Sale of the Carolinas, Chester, S.C. Mar. 26 — 54th Annual N.C. Hereford Classic Sale, Statesville, N.C. Apr. 9 — Knoll Crest Farm Spring Bull & Female Sale, Red House, Va. red ANGUS Dec. 17 — N.C. BCIP Butner Bull Test Sale, Oxford, N.C. 2022 Feb. 15 — Bull Hill Ranch 11th Annual “More Bull for Your Buck” Production Sale, Gray Court, S.C. Jan. 22 — 4th Annual Harward Sisters Cattle Company Annual Production Sale, Norwood, N.C. Feb. 5 — 46th Annual Clemson University Bull Sale, Pendleton, S.C. Mar. 12 — March Madness Cattle Sale of the Carolinas, Chester, S.C. SANTA GERTRUDIS 2022 May 7 — Santa Gertudis Breeders of the Carolinas Sale, Chester, S.C. SIMMENTAL Dec. 4 — N.C. BCIP Waynesville Bull Test Sale, Canton, N.C. Dec. 4 — 6th Annual The Pounds & Profit Sale, Snow Camp, N.C. Dec. 4 — 46th Annual Union County Performance Tested Bull Sale, Monroe, N.C. Dec. 17 — N.C. BCIP Butner Bull Test Sale, Oxford, N.C. 2022 Jan. 22 — 4th Annual Harward Sisters Cattle Company Annual Production Sale, Norwood, N.C. Feb. 5 — 46th Annual Clemson University Bull Sale, Pendleton, S.C.
The Carolina Cattle Connection q DECEMBER 2021
Feb. 26 — Saluda County Cattlemen’s Association 30th Annual Replacement Heifer Sale, Saluda, S.C. Mar. 12 — March Madness Cattle Sale of the Carolinas, Chester, S.C. OTHER EVENTS Dec. 3 — Knoll Crest Farm Total Performance Bull Sale, Red House, Va. Dec. 4 — N.C. BCIP Waynesville Bull Test Sale, Canton, N.C. Dec. 4 — 46th Annual Union County Performance Tested Bull Sale, Monroe, N.C. Dec. 6-9 — 8th National Conference on Grazing Lands, Myrtle Beach, S.C. Dec. 7 — Mid-Atlantic Cattle Sales Video Auction Dec. 14 — N.C. Forage & Grassland Council Winter Conference Series Dec. 16 — Cow Camp 101: Back to Basics, Louisburg, N.C. Dec. 17 — N.C. BCIP Butner Bull Test Sale, Oxford, N.C.
2022 Jan. 11 — N.C. Forage & Grassland Council Winter Conference Series Jan. 18 — Cow Camp 101: Back to Basics, Clinton, N.C. Jan. 22 — 4th Annual Harward Sisters Cattle Company Annual Production Sale, Norwood, N.C. Feb. 5 — 46th Annual Clemson University Bull Sale, Pendleton, S.C. Feb. 14 — N.C. Forage & Grassland Council Winter Conference Series Feb. 18 — Cow Camp 101: Back to Basics, Clinton, N.C. Feb. 26 — Saluda County Cattlemen’s Association 30th Annual Replacement Heifer Sale, Saluda, S.C. Feb. 25-16 — NCCA 70th Annual Cattlemen’s Conference, Hickory, N.C. Mar. 12 — March Madness Cattle Sale of the Carolinas, Chester, S.C. Mar. 14 — N.C. Forage & Grassland Council Winter Conference Series Apr. 19 — Cow Camp 101: Back to Basics, Louisburg, N.C. Jun. 21 — 5-County Beef Tou
IGHTER Several men are in the locker room of a golf club. A mobile phone on a bench rings, and a man engages the free speaker function and begins to talk. Everyone else in the room stops to listen. Man: ‘Hello.’ Woman: ‘Honey, It’s me...are you at the club?’ Man: ‘Yes.’ Woman: ‘I’m at the City Center Mall now and found this beautiful leather coat. It’s only $1,000. Is it OK if I buy it?’ Man: ‘Sure, go ahead if you really like it.’ Woman: ‘I also stopped by the Mercedes dealership and saw the new 2022 Models. I saw one I really liked.’ Man: ‘How much?’ Woman: ‘$98,000’ Man: ‘OK, but for that price make sure it comes with all the options.’ Woman: ‘Great! Oh, and one more thing, the house I wanted last year is back on the market. They’re asking for $980,000.’ Man: ‘Well, then go ahead and make an offer of $900,000. They will probably take it. If not, go the extra $50,000 if you think it’s really a pretty good price.’ Woman: ‘OK. I’ll see you later! I love you so much! You’re so generous!’ Man: “You’re worth it. ‘Bye!’
IDE
The man hangs up. The other men in the locker room are staring at him in astonishment, with mouths wide open. The man turns and asks, “Anybody knows whose phone this is?”
*
*
*
A rancher was minding his own business when an FBI agent comes up to him and says, “We got a tip that you may be keeping some illegal contraband on the premises. Do you mind if I take a look around?” The old rancher replies, “That’s fine, you shouldn’t go over there though.” As he points at one of his fields. The FBI agent snaps at him, “I’m am a federal agent! I can go wherever I want!” With this he pulls out his badge and shoves it into the ranchers face. The rancher shrugs this off and continues with his daily chores. About 15 minutes later he hears a loud scream from the field he pointed out earlier. Suddenly he sees the FBI agent sprinting towards him with a large bull on his heels. The rancher rushes to the fence and yells, “Your badge! Show him your badge!”
