CC C
arolina attle onnection JULY 2022 •
Vol. 36, Issue No. 7
Spotlight on
GELBVIEH
■ 13% All Natural Protein ■ Highly digestible fiber sources added for optimal rumen function ■ Ingredients include a complete protein pellet, cottonseed hulls, cracked corn, and soy hull ■ Textured ration makes it easier to get calves on feed quickly. Increases feed intake for maximum growth. ■ Premium additives, such as Diamond V Yeast products, are used to improve overall health and growth ■ 16% protein complete feed for laying hens durin period of egg production ■ Eco-friendly formulation - contains phytase for lower phosphorous manure ■ Can also be recommended for other poultry specie during breeding and/or egg production periods: • Waterfowl (Ducks & Geese) • Specialty fowl (Guinea, Bantams, & Peafowl) ■ 15% Protein and 4% Fat ■ Textured blend with cracked corn (50%), dehulled barley (12.5%), protein mix pellet, and liquid molasses added (7%) ■ Fortified and balanced with minerals and vitamins ■ Provides customer with a solid base formula to apply various species specific show additives if they desire. A few key points: • No added copper • Yeast culture added (Diamond V XP) • Zinpro (zinc amino acid complex) added
ONNECTION 14th Annual America’s Farmers Market Celebration Kicks Off With $10,000 in Prizes .......... page 54 2022 South Carolina Sale Barn Cattle Receipts ................................................................................ page 14 38th Annual N.C. Angus Association Spring Fever Sale, by Sharon Rogers & Zach Moffitt ......... page 20 A Message from the CEO — It’s Farm Bill Time, by Colin Woodall ................................................ page 44 A Tribute to Paula Pickler, by Clint Reese .......................................................................................... page 30 Alltech News .......................................................................................................................................... page 49 Amazing Grazing — The Solution to Fescue Toxicosis is Discovered at Last!, by Dr. Matt Poore …............................................................................................................................ page 10 American Angus Association News ................................................................................................... page 24 American Brahman Breeders Association News ........................................................................... page 30 American Hereford Association News ............................................................................................. page 26 Animal Agriculture Alliance News .................................................................................................... page 58 Armed to Farm Farmer-Veteran Training is Headed to North Carolina ..................................... page 19 Ashley’s Beef Corner — How Did We Do and What’s Next?, by Ashley W. Herring …................ page 8 Association of Veterinary Medical Colleges News ........................................................................ page 45 Beef Cuts and Recommended Cooking Methods ............................................................................ page 31 Bekaert News ......................................................................................................................................... page 36 Being a Good Neighbor from a Cattle Health Standpoint, by Bob Larson, DVM, Ph.D. ............. page 61 Beloved Cowboy Poet Baxter Black Passes ..................................................................................... page 29 BioZyme News ....................................................................................................................................... page 52 Carolina Cooking — Ancho Chili Spiced Street Tacos .................................................................... page 54 Carolina Video and Load Lot Monthly Summary ............................................................................ page 35 Cattlemen’s Beef Board Update ........................................................................................................ page 48 Certified Angus Beef News ................................................................................................................. page 22 Clemson Extension Edisto Bull Test 140 Day Report, by Steven E. Meadows, Ph.D. ................... page 48 Consumers Feeling the Meat Price Sticker Shock Have Ways to Save ....................................... page 54 Director’s Report — Heating Up the Carolinas, by Travis Mitchell .................................................. page 3 Duckett Receives 2022 Godley-Snell Award for Excellence ......................................................... page 49 E.B.’s View from the Cow Pasture — There is a Reason for Every Happening, by E.B. Harris ......................................................... page 13 Farm Credit News ................................................................................................................................. page 30 Federation of State Beef Councils Update ....................................................................................... page 42 Feeding With Efficiency, by Ty Davis, Ph.D. ....................................................................................... page 33 Forage News — Is It a Fit For My Operations?, by Liliane Silva …..................................................... page 16 Have You Herd — Bovine Anaplasmosis and How To Prevent It, by Carrie-Grace Coleman .................................................................................................................. page 14 Honoring Paul O’Dell ............................................................................................................................ page 38 I Know You’ll Miss This Man, by Baxter Black …................................................................................. page 29 John Deere News ................................................................................................................................... page 55 Merck Animal Health News ................................................................................................................ page 60 N.C. Weekly Livestock Report ........................................................................................................... page 58 National Cattlemen’s Beef Association News ................................................................................. page 46 National Cattlemen’s Beef Association President’s Report — Your Voice in Washington, by Don Schiefelbein …................................................................. page 38 New Beef Co-op Aims to Expand Processing, Create South Carolina Beef Product ............... page 56 New NCCA Members for 2022 ............................................................................................................ page 35 North American Limousin Foundation News ................................................................................. page 44 North Carolina Cattle Receipts, Trends, and Prices ....................................................................... page 46 Rabobank News ..................................................................................................................................... page 56 South Carolina Cattle Receipts, Trends, and Prices ........................................................................ page 53 The 2023 Farm Bill: What Is It and Why Does It Matter to Cattle Producers ............................ page 37 Tall Fescue Planting Guide ..................................................................................................................... page 11 The Chaplain’s Corral — Fourth of July Experience, by Dale Brenneman .................................... page 12 The Simmental Trail, by Jennie Rucker ……......................................................................................... page 18 Trending in Food & Media .................................................................................................................... page 42 Vytelle News .......................................................................................................................................... page 60 You Decide!, by Dr. Mike Walden ......................................................................................................... page 12
N.C. Cattlemen’s Association
President BURON LANIER 2877 Piney Woods Road • Burgaw, NC 28425 Vice Presidents SCOTT WEST 489 Panacea Springs Road • Littleton, NC 27850 RYAN CLARK 5250 NC 772 Hwy. • Madison, NC 27025 BRANDON BOWMAN 2346 Ann Street • Claremont, NC 28610 Immediate Past President KARL GILLESPIE 860 Corbin Road • Franklin, NC 28734 NCBA Regional Vice President (Policy) FRED SMITH, JR. NCBA Policy Division Director - JOHN LANGDON N.C. Beef Council Director RALPH BLALOCK, JR. Beef Board Director - BRIAN WARREN Secretary/Treasurer - EVERETT JOHNSON Directors At Large MATT POORE • NEIL BOWMAN • TODD SEE
Executive Director - BRYAN K. BLINSON 2228 N. Main Street • Fuquay-Varina, NC 27526 N.C. Cattlemen’s Beef Council Director of Consumer Information ASHLEY W. HERRING
The Carolina Cattle Connection Vol. 36, No. 7 JULY 2022 Sales & Publication Office 2228 N. Main Street Fuquay-Varina, NC 27526
Phone: 919-552-9111 Fax: 919-552-9216 Email: mail@nccattle.com Website: www.nccattle.com
The Carolina Cattle Connection
is printed on 30 lb recycled newsprint by BN Printing in Benson, N.C.
Manager, N.C. Manager, S.C.
STAFF
BRYAN BLINSON
TRAVIS MITCHELL
Editor & Advertising Director CASEY L. HINNANT Assistant Editor & Proofreader KIM BURDGE
Administrative Assistant - KIM BURDGE N.C. Circulation
KIM BURDGE
S.C. Circulation
TRAVIS MITCHELL
S.C. Cattlemen’s Association
Executive Director - TRAVIS MITCHELL P.O. Box 207 • Saluda, SC 29138 Phone: 803-609-2828 Email: twmitch@clemson.edu
Material in The Carolina Cattle Connection is not to be reproduced in total or in part without the written permission of the Editor. All Website: www.sccattlemen.wildapricot.org submissions become property of The Carolina Executive Committee Cattle Connection, but we make every effort to President - Timmy Benton return items such as photographs and artwork as 1st Vice President - Joe Oswald IV requested. nd 2 Vice President - Gene Crim Secretary - Carol Hendrix Treasurer - Eric Seymour Past President - Roscoe Kyle
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 • Ashley Mills, Blair Drake Yon, Ridge Spring • Gene Crim, St. Matthews Lee Haddon, Gaffney • Eric Seymour, Columbia
S.C. Beef Council
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
GELBVIEH Characteristics of the Breed … page 5 Gelbvieh and Balancer Maternal Influence … page 4 Gelbvieh History and Development … page 4 Measure the Ways Crossbreeding Pays … page 7 The Competition Between Science and Emotion, by Laura Handke … page 6 The Value of Crossbreeding for Commercial Herds … page 5 The Carolina Cattle Connection
q JULY 2022
PAGE 1
Your Carcass Cut Your Way Slaughter Facility 9683 Kerrs Chapel Road Gibsonville, NC
Processing Facility 430 NC Hwy 49 S Asheboro, NC
336-628-4949
www.PiedmontCustomMeats.com We are a processor offering slaughter and processing service only. We DO NOT buy or sell any meat products.
BEEF • PORK • LAMB • GOAT PAGE 2
The Carolina Cattle Connection q JULY 2022
Director’s Report By TRAVIS MITCHELL, Executive Director, SCCA
Heating Up the Carolinas The heat is on across the Carolinas as we move into the summer grilling season. Heat index values have exceeded 100ºF for several days now, and the long term forecast shows more is on the way. As temperatures rise, remember to take care of yourself and your cattle this summer. Plans are being made for the 2023 S.C. Cattlemen’s Association Annual Meeting being held on February 3 at the T. Ed. Garrison Cattle Complex in Clemson. Please mark your calendars and plan to attend this special event. We will once again hold our meeting the day
before the Clemson Bull Test Sale and hope you can attend both events. We have an awesome lineup of speakers and will also feature an industry trade show. Awards of Excellence applications and S.C. Cattlemen’s Foundation scholarship applications are now available on our website at www.sccattlemen.org. Please nominate a deserving producer, educator, industry person, or county association for our Awards of Excellence. Also, please encourage students to apply for a S.C. Cattlemen’s Foundation scholarship.
Be a winner! Join your local cattlemen’s association AND your state cattlemen’s association!
The Carolina Cattle Connection
q JULY 2022
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e Special
Spotlight on
GELBVIEH
Section f
Gelbvieh History and Development Origin of Breed - The Gelbvieh breed is one of the oldest German cattle breeds, first found mainly in three Franconian districts of Bavaria in southern Germany. Starting in 1850, systematic breeding work began in stud herds. Through purebreeding, the “red-yellow Franconian cattle” were developed from several local strains, including Celtic-German Landrace and Heil-Brown Landrace cattle. These local strains have been further improved with intensive breeding work since 1870. This solid colored breed of red-yellow cattle enjoyed great popularity as draft and slaughter cattle. Since World War II, Germany used a stringent selection program to repopulate its cattle herds. Only three percent of the registered cows were used to produce potential bulls. These cows were selected on structural soundness and conformation.
Bulls from these select cows were performance tested, and the top half was progeny tested. The progeny evaluation included gestation length, birth weight, calving ease, growth rate, slaughter weight, carcass quality conformation, udder soundness, and fertility and milk production in daughters. Semen was released only from bulls that proved their superiority in progeny testing. In the 1960s, Red Danish cattle were included in the herd book to improve milk production. Development in America - Leness Hall, the director of International Marketing for Carnation Genetics, first saw Gelbvieh cattle in 1969. He worked towards importing Gelbvieh semen to the U.S., and finally was able to bring 43,000 units to America in 1971. In that same year, the American Gelbvieh Association
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was formed. Today, there are approximately 45,000 active, registered Gelbvieh cows in the United States and 1,400 active members of the American Gelbvieh Association (AGA). AGA is the largest Gelbvieh association in the world and ranks fifth in number of registered animals among beef breed associations in the United States. Most registered U.S. Gelbvieh are classified as purebreds (at least 88 percentage Gelbvieh) and were bred up by mating fullbloods and purebred Gelbvieh bulls to foundation cows.
Balancer genetics, the AGA offers several services to assist in maximizing return on investment in Gelbvieh and Balancer bulls and replacement females. Cow/calf producers who use Gelbvieh genetics are eligible to add value to females by marketing them through the Maternal Edge commercial female sales. Visit www.maternaledge.com for more information about a sale in various areas. For cattlemen looking to market bulls, replacement females or feeder cattle, check out the AGA’s free Exchange
service, including: Bull Listings, Female Listings, and Feeder Calf Listings. Visit www.gelbvieh.org/exchange to view current listings or to post a new listing. Brand your Gelbvieh influenced feeder calves with SmartCross® ear tags. This ear tag tells the buyer he is getting quality and predictability. Contact the AGA office at 303-465-2333 for more information on the three tag styles to fit any management program, as well as electronic ID tags. For more information about Gelbvieh and Balancer genetics, visit www.gelbvieh.org.
Gelbvieh and Balancer Maternal Influence
Breed Registry and Improvement Programs - Purebred Gelbvieh cattle as well as hybrid cattle can be registered with the AGA. Breeders can document Gelbvieh influenced bulls and females with registrations and EPDs through AGA’s three hybrid registry programs: Balancer®, Southern Balancer®, and Hybrid. Balancer cattle are registered hybrid seedstock and have documented pedigrees and EPDs. Balancer animals are 2575 percent Gelbvieh with the balance Angus or Red Angus. Southern Balancer is a Gelbvieh heat tolerant composite specifically targeted to producers who want the maternal heterosis, disposition, fertility, and carcass consistency of a Bos Indicus x Gelbvieh cross. Hybrid animals, of any breed or cross, may be recorded using the Hybrid Cattle Recording Service. The AGA documents the pedigree, breed composition, and calculates performance data and provides EPDs. For Gelbvieh members and commercial users of Gelbvieh and
The Carolina Cattle Connection q JULY 2022
Gelbvieh and Balancer cattle offer maternal superiority through increased longevity, added fertility, and more pounds of calf weaned per cow exposed. In addition, Gelbvieh and Balancer females offer a small mature cow size, more maternal milk, and reach puberty at an earlier age. U.S. Meat Animal Research Center data shows Gelbvieh females have the smallest mature cow size of the four major continental breeds. The Gelbvieh breed was the only breed in the study to reduce mature cow size. At an average of 1,382 pounds, Gelbvieh sired females had the lowest five-year-old cow weight. This reduced mature cow size allows for puberty to be reached at an earlier age, which leads to calving earlier in the season and producing a calf at a younger age. These females are able to wean heavier calves while still maintaining low birth weights and a tight calving interval year after year. Gelbvieh and Balancer females also excel in stayability, which is the probability a bull’s daughters will remain in the cow herd until at least six years of age. This trait is economically beneficial to cow/calf producers and directly impacts profitability. With the high costs associated with the development or purchase of replacement females, sustained reproduction is essential in a herd. U.S. MARC data, along with American Gelbvieh Association genetic trends, prove that today’s Gelbvieh and Balancer cows are highly productive, offering increased longevity, more maternal milk, less mature weights, early puberty, quiet disposition, and will calve easily, producing calves with low birth weights and tremendous growth. With stayability and cow productivity being important factors in cow/ calf profitability, adding Gelbvieh and Balancer maternal influence through a crossbreeding program is a great option for commercial producers.
e Special
Spotlight on
GELBVIEH
Section f
The Value of Crossbreeding for Commercial Herds The crossbred beef cow can make you more money! One of the main keys to successful crossbreeding is finding two breeds that excel in different traits but together result in high breed complementarity. The crossbred animal that effectively captures the value of breed complementarity is the Balancer®. The
Balancer captures the maternal strengths of Gelbvieh cattle and the marbling strength of Angus or Red Angus cattle. A Balancer is a registered hybrid seedstock breed that are 25-75 percent Gelbvieh with either Angus or Red Angus contributing the remaining breed percentage. “Crossbreeding can have positive
Characteristics of the Breed Coloration - Traditional Gelbviehs are reddish gold to russet or black in color. Traditional German Gelbviehs tend to be darker on their necks than the rest of the body; this is more prominent in bulls than in cows. Red Gelbviehs can be confused with traditional colored Limousins because of the same light pigmentation around the eyes and nose. Gelbviehs also have strong skin pigmentation, which makes them ideal for temperate to arid conditions. Body type and characteristics - Gelbvieh are beefy, moderately muscular cattle, with frame sizes ranging from medium to large. They are long and smooth haired, with bulls averaging around 2,300 lbs and cows averaging around 1,300 lbs in weight. Head characteristics - Though the traditional Gelbvieh breed was originally horned, this has been bred out in most of the modern day Gelbvieh cattle. Cows have a moderately long face, not dissimilar to Simmentals, Charolais, or Limousins, and bulls have similar head characteristics to the aforementioned breeds. Other characteristics - The Gelbvieh breed is great for its high fertility, freedom from genital defects, superior calving ease, mothering ability, exceptional milking ability, and high growth rates. Carcass characteristics have a lot of potential, since the breed is mostly lean, but can be crossed with breeds like Angus to get an exceptional carcass quality. Gelbviehs are also very quiet and docile, which is easily passed on to their offspring, crossbred or not. They are also highly adapted to hot arid climates, with not only the skin pigmentation that makes them resistant to sunburn and able to stand out in the hot sun without any problems, but also their ability to restrict blood flow to the areas where they have been bitten by ticks, isolating the ticks and starving them. This is a characteristic that has been noticed and proven by South African Gelbvieh Association, and is currently undergoing more research.
effects on a ranch’s bottom line by not only increasing the quality and gross pay weight of calves produced but also by increasing the durability and productivity of the cow factory,” said Bob Weaber, Ph.D., cow/ calf extension specialist at Kansas State University. The Balancer hybrid will do just as Dr. Weaber states. Balancer calves will load the scales with more pounds on sale day and their mothers will keep producing similar calves year after year. In addition to increasing the amount of pounds sold, ranch profitability improves from crossbreeding by reducing the maintenance requirements of your cow herd. “Positive changes in cow longevity, reproductive rate, and calf performance from heterosis effectively reduces maintenance energy requirements per pound of beef produced. Dilution of maintenance costs of
the cow herd improves sustainability in both the environment, through more efficient land use, and profitability areas,” Weaber said. Matt Spangler, Ph.D., with the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, believes that a well thoughtout crossbreeding program should be utilized in a comer operation. “The most successful commercial operations use crossbreeding as the standard rather than the exception as they exploit maternal heterosis to increase production, but mostly in order to reduce cost…They focus on the cost per pound of production, relative to the possible revenue per pound,” Spangler said. Balancer cattle excel at meeting the demands of the cow/calf producers and the feedlots. Balancer cattle make it easy to implement crossbreeding into any commercial herd and give the rancher the benefits of profit making hybrid vigor.
Regular copy deadline is JULY 5 for the AUGUST issue Spotlight material is due JULY 1 for the AUGUST issue The Carolina Cattle Connection
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e Special
Spotlight on
GELBVIEH
Section f
The Competition Between Science and Emotion By LAURA HANDKE American Gelbvieh Association Exploring the polarizing public perception of sustainability. Kim Stackhouse-Lawson, Ph.D., director of AgNext and professor in the Department of Animal Science at Colorado State University, kicked off the Cattlemen’s Profit Roundup symposium at the American Gelbvieh Association national convention with a presentation around the emotional and scientific struggle that has become the platform for sustainability. “First and foremost, we have to acknowledge that the space of sustainability is highly political; it’s polarizing,” Stackhouse-Lawson says. “It’s also difficult to get your arms around, and some of that is because emotion and science are parallel in sustainability, and if you ever have a question of whether it’s science or emotion that wins, unfortunately, it’s always emotion,” she says. Another challenging element of sustainability: everyone defines it differently. The most common way to define the group of principles is through a balanced approach to the measures of social, economic, and environmental aspects. However, most impose their own parameters when arriving at a definition. “In the last four or five years, we’ve really seen sustainability evolve into a science that works on eliminating risk from a business or supply chain – a corporate risk mitigation strategy,” she says, adding that to understand sustainability from this perspective, the conversation has to shift to climate change.
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“I want to demonstrate what risk looks like through the lens of climate,” Stackhouse-Lawson says. “Risk exists in two forms in this conversation: reputation and access to capital.” Showing a slide of protestors demonstrating outside of a European OSI Group beef patty plant, StackhouseLawson admonished the room, “It’s getting closer. The caption of this slide reads: ‘Protestors blocked four McDonald’s sites across England on Saturday, demanding the fast food chain to switch to plant based products by 2025.’ OSI is one step removed from McDonalds. These attacks are coming closer and closer to the supply chain,” she said. If public reputation smears aren’t enough, the next slide presented an article clipping from prominent finance magazine, “The Guardian,” warning that European based banks were confronting regulation to not invest in high greenhouse emitting industries, especially targeting animal agriculture. “These regulations aren’t going to go away. Many of you may have read about COP26 and the Biden administration’s commitment to reduce net emissions by 30 percent by 2030,” she says. “Approximately 30 percent of methane emissions that we produce in the U.S. come from enteric emissions. We own a relatively large piece of this methane pie.” The Sixth Assessment Report of the United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change reported that we can
The Carolina Cattle Connection q JULY 2022
expect to see near one and a half to two degrees Celsius warming, with many scientists and climate experts reporting that our climate impacts are irreversible. Additionally, the International Panel on Climate Change stated that if we are going to curb temperature, we have to stop emitting carbon into the atmosphere...zero emissions. “This is one of those head shaking moments,” Stackhouse-Lawson says. “It doesn’t seem very feasible or practical, but that is where the climate scientists are at.” There are three greenhouse gas emissions that are important in animal agriculture: carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide, and each one of those molecules has a different ability to trap heat. CO2 has the least ability. Methane is 28 times more potent than CO2, and nitrous oxide is 298 times more potent than CO2 in trapping atmospheric heat. Of the man made greenhouse gases in the United States, carbon dioxide is responsible for approximately 80 percent of our emissions, methane is responsible for approximately ten, and nitrous oxide is responsible for approximately seven. Of those percentages, agriculture contributes ten percent, and as a sector, animal agriculture contributes 3.8 percent of total greenhouse gas emissions. Both livestock and crop cultivation have increased in greenhouse gas emissions since 1990, 8.5 and 21 percent, respectively—numbers that make sense given the increased number of livestock animals and increased crop production. Footprint is Different than Absolute Emissions - “Six months ago, I could have come up here and only talked about footprint, but because we’ve seen an increased focus on greenhouse gas emissions, we need to talk about total emissions and footprints,” StackhouseLawson says. Footprint is the entire system pulled together, divided by the output. “The most efficient beef producing countries have the lowest carbon footprint, even though the total amount of greenhouse gases those systems produce are the highest,” she says, “We are producing more
food with less of an impact. We have an important story to tell.” Stackhouse-Lawson says that even though the beef industry has done an exceptional job of reducing the overall footprint, the industry needs to stay vigilant with total emissions. “The cow/calf sector is responsible for 70 percent of the greenhouse gas footprint of the entire beef sector,” she says. “Why? Because of the enteric methane that cows produce. The longer the carbohydrate chains are that a cow eats, the more enteric methane she will produce. She’s also producing a calf every year. That complicates things pretty quickly. How do we reach all 750,000 cow/calf producers in the U.S. and figure out what we can do on each of those very, very different ranches to reduce those emissions?” GWP* (star), a result of 2017 research from Oxford University, is a new way to measure the impact of a molecule of methane based on the fact that methane is a short lived climate gluten; it breaks down the CO2 and water, leaving the CO2 to be consumed by plants. This new measurement method will reward an efficient beef system. “This is good for the U.S. beef herd as long as our emissions stay the same. As an industry, we’re expecting our impact on temperature to decrease once the EPA accepts this new scoring model,” she says. Adding that one thing that is never included in the emission models, however, is the fact that not only do our livestock graze marginal land, but those rangelands also store 20 percent of soil organic carbon. “The best thing that we can do right now is keep our grass right side up,” Stackhouse-Lawson says. “Cattle can become an even greater part of the (climate change) solution by increasing soil carbon sequestration.” About the American Gelbvieh Association. The American Gelbvieh Association is a progressive beef cattle breed association representing 1,100 members and approximately 40,000 cows assessed annually in a performance oriented total herd reporting system.
e Special
Spotlight on
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Section f
Measure the Ways Crossbreeding Pays Now more than ever, producers are trying to maximize outputs and herd performance all while reducing costs. Taking advantage of tools that allow for reduced costs and increased productivity and profitability is an essential worth to producers in today’s industry. One tool that has been utilized in the beef industry for several years, and one that has evident value in beef production is crossbreeding. Crossbreeding provides increased performance with minimal, if any, additional costs to the producer. Through the practice of crossbreeding, heterosis (or hybrid vigor) and breed complementarity are achieved within the herd. Heterosis can be defined as the superiority in performance of the crossbred animal compared to the average of its straightbred parents. When valuing heterosis, you essentially gain a dual advantage: individual heterosis and maternal heterosis.
a crossbred mother over the average of other purebred mothers. It refers to the combined improvement in traits from the dam that causes an increase in the performance of her and her progeny. Improved fertility, increased calf survivability, greater cow longevity, and more pounds of calf produced are examples of maternal heterosis. As seen in Table 5, a crossbred cow has been shown to have a 16.2 percent increase in longevity and has proven to stay in the herd longer than a straightbred cow. This table also reflects the increase in the number of calves through a cow’s lifetime as well as additional pounds of cumulative weaning weight and more profit for the producer. The effects of heterosis are greatest for lifetime production with a 30 percent improvement, longevity, or herd life with a 15 percent increase, and annual income improvement from heterosis at 23 percent.
Table 4. Individual heterosis: Advantage of the crossbred calf1
Trait
Calving rate Survival to weaning Birth weight Weaning weight Longevity ADG Yearling weight
1
Observed Improvement
3.5 0.8 1.6 18.0 1.36 0.08 29.1
and easy crossbreeding system. Gelbvieh are also an ideal fit for a crossbreeding program because of their superior maternal characteristics such as longevity and fertility. Gelbvieh females are known for reaching puberty at an earlier age and remaining in the herd longer. With these attributes, combined with performance gained through maternal heterosis, Gelbvieh influenced cattle make the ideal female for any herd. So, why not reap the benefits of the heterosis advantage? Source: American Gelbvieh Association
% Heterosis 3.7 1.5 1.8 3.9 16.2 2.6 3.8
Adapted from Cundiff and Gregory 1999.
Individual heterosis results in an increase of calf survival to weaning, along with increased growth. Table 4 shows the increase in performance that can be achieved through individual heterosis. Through crossbreeding, calves have been seen to have a 3.9 percent increase in weaning weight and a 2.6 percent increase in average daily gain, all which translates to increased profits. Similar to the definition of heterosis above, maternal heterosis is the advantage of
other. Breed complementarity is one of the best ways to describe the benefits of Balancer® cattle. Balancer animals are 25 to 75 percent Gelbvieh with the balance of Angus or Red Angus. They combine the Gelbvieh growth, muscle, leanness, fertility, longevity, and low yield grading ability with the carcass qualities of Angus to make an animal that meets today’s modern industry demands. Balancer hybrids offer a simple and powerful way to maintain hybrid vigor and the proper combination of British and Continental genetics in your cowherd in a straightforward
The crossbred female is really where crossbreeding pays off. Traits that are most influenced by heterosis are those traits with low heritability, such as fertility traits. Traits that are most affected by heterosis can be seen in the table to the right. Utilizing crossbreeding systems also allows for the opportunity to capitalize on breed complementarity. This is the assessment of strengths and weaknesses of each breed type and applying those that complement each
December 3, 2022 • 12:00 noon Union County Livestock Market • Monroe, N.C.
Table 5. Maternal heterosis: Advantage of the crossbred cow1
Trait
Calving rate Survival to weaning Birth weight Weaning weight Longevity
Observed Improvement
Cow Lifetime Production: No. Calves Cumulative Wean. Wt., lb. 1
Adapted from Cundiff and Gregory 1999.
3.5 0.8 1.6 18.0 1.36 0.97 600
% Heterosis 3.7 1.5 1.8 3.9 16.2 17.0 25.3
704-219-1294 The Carolina Cattle Connection
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Ashley’s Beef Corner
T
How Did We Do and What’s Next? By ASHLEY W. HERRING Director of Consumer Information N.C. Cattlemen’s Beef Council
We have great news to share regarding Game Day (Super Bowl) and the Beef. It’s What’s for Dinner 300 complimentary promotions that we participated in. Our southeastern states collectively pooled $75,000 in a partnership with Chicory that resulted in $982,000 in fresh beef sales through Kroger. Chicory is an online tool that turns recipe ingredient lists into an “Add to cart” feature. As one is online reading over recipes that they wish to create, a hyperlink will make that 2 lb chuck roast be placed into a cart for grocery pickup. Easy breezy! Next, the summer grilling campaign will run from June 6-August 30. Using new summer grilling and Tony Romo images/videos, advertising will take place on Spotify, Youtube, Google Search, and Smart TV channels. With $88,000 total in the budget from southeastern states plus help from Iowa, North Dakota, and Oklahoma ($60,000), it is set to do nice work for us. We will have a midcampaign report and, of course, a final report at completion. We’ll capitalize on high grilling days such as Father’s Day, 4th of July, and Labor Day weekend. Beef is synonymous with family celebrations this time of year. We can’t wait to show the new summer recipes that have been created. I’m sharing one here but be sure to visit Tony
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Romo’s playbook on the BIWFD website. Grilled Sirloin Steak Kabobs with Garlic Rosemary Butter 1 pound beef top sirloin steak boneless, cut 1 inch thick 1 Tbsp steak seasoning blend 1 Tbsp olive oil 8 oz red skinned potatoes 4 oz cherry tomatoes 4 oz baby portobello mushrooms Basting Sauce 4 Tbsp salted butter 1 tsp fresh rosemary, chopped 2 tsp fresh parsley, chopped 1 1/2 tsp fresh garlic, minced Garnish 1 tsp fresh parsley, chopped 1 tsp fresh rosemary, chopped Cut potatoes into 1 1/2 inch pieces. Place in microwave safe dish; cover with vented plastic wrap. Microwave on high for 6-8 minutes or until just tender, stirring once. Cool slightly. Cut beef top sirloin steak into 1 1/4 inch pieces. Combine beef, mushrooms, tomatoes, potatoes, olive oil, and steak seasoning in a large bowl; toss. Alternately thread beef and vegetables onto metal skewers. Place kabobs on grid over medium, ash covered coals. Grill 9-12 minutes (over medium heat on a preheated gas grill, 8-10 minutes) for medium rare (145°F) to medium (160°F) doneness, turning once and brushing with sauce during the last 5 minutes. Remove from grill and brush with remaining sauce. Garnish with the remaining rosemary and parsley mixture.
The Carolina Cattle Connection q JULY 2022
Basting Sauce - In a small sauce pot, combine butter, parsley, garlic, and rosemary. Melt butter mixture over low heat either on the stovetop or on your grill; until melted. Stir occasionally. Safe Handling Tips: • Wash hands with soap and water before cooking and always after touching raw meat. • Separate raw meat from other
foods. • Wash all cutting boards, utensils, and dishes after touching raw meat. • Do not reuse marinades used on raw foods. • Wash all produce prior to use. • Cook beef until temperature reaches 145°F for medium rare steaks and roasts, 160°F for ground beef. • Refrigerate food promptly.
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By DR. MATT POORE N.C. State University
The Solution to Fescue Toxicosis is Discovered at Last! I recently got an email from a colleague asking me if I had heard of the new protein tub with a feed additive that is the ultimate solution to the problem of fescue toxicosis. I followed up and looked at the advertising and at the research that evaluated the supplement product containing the newly discovered technology. After a careful review of the information, I found that this solution is just another thing you can do that might help partially mitigate fescue toxicosis, but that doesn’t nearly solve the problem. There is not enough research available on the new additive to clearly understand how much of a response you might expect, but what little research there is suggests that the benefit to performance would be small, if there is any benefit at all, and it certainly would not be a very economical approach. I am actually embarrassed that the university researchers who worked on this product can live with their work being twisted
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into such misleading advertising. This experience was like déjà vu and made me reflect on the very many years we have struggled with this problem and the countless solutions that have been proposed and explored. There have been very many compounds that have been suggested to help, including ivermectin, niacin, implants, binders (yeast cell wall), trace minerals, antioxidants, flavonoids, etc. Eldon Cole, a regional beef specialist in Missouri, has been keeping a list of all the things that have been proposed to help with the fescue problem, and that list has grown to well over 100 items, none of which really solve the problem. Some of these solutions do help sometimes, especially things like just feeding a concentrate to improve cattle performance, adding clover, etc. However, all create added expenses that take away part of all of the benefit of the added response, and many give the same amount of response if you were
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on tall fescue or other grasses (as is the case with clover). While many continue to have hope that the ultimate antidote will be discovered, those of us who have been working on this for 30 years or more realize that this is just not going to happen. Even promising approaches like seeking out genetic tolerance to the toxins are expensive and not really practically available to farmers at this time. To understand why we might never see a magic bullet that allows grazing toxic fescue without any effects on animal welfare or performance, let’s dig a little deeper into what is causing the problem. The tall fescue wild type endophyte, found in most of the Kentucky 31 stands across the U.S., produces a variety of toxins called ergot alkaloids. These toxins are found at high levels when the forage is actively growing, especially in late spring when seedheads are developing and in the fall when growth resumes after fescue’s summer slowdown. Ergot alkaloids are nothing to play with. This group of toxins influences many of the metabolic processes in the body because they mimic important compounds that interact with many different receptor types in the body. Remember that humans have struggled with exposure to ergot alkaloids for centuries, including the disease, described hundreds of years ago called Saint Anthony’s Fire. The toxins in those days commonly came from infected grain and caused people to have a terrible burning sensation in their hands and feet, caused by the choking off of normal blood circulation. In extreme cases, blood flow is cut off enough to result in the loss of
the extremity. This condition is analogous to fescue foot, one of the most extreme results of fescue toxicosis. Joe Davis, one of our South Carolina farmers who has struggled with fescue toxicosis over the years, gave the analogy at a conference one time that feeding something to try to counteract the impact of these toxins is akin to teaching your kids to safely smoke cigarettes. His point was that it can’t be done! Some things are just too bad to overcome with simple approaches. The latest additive, based on hot chili peppers, just raises false hope among farmers that a simple solution will eventually be discovered. So, if these toxins are so bad, how do so many cattlemen find a way to be successful on a toxic fescue base? They have developed a management system that takes advantage of what we call incremental improvement. Each thing you do that has a small benefit can add up. If you do enough eventually, performance can be improved to where your cattle business can survive. Many farmers have switched to fall calving, graze or clip to control seedheads (where the toxins concentrate), use a good quality mineral supplement, use some energy and protein supplement, and select for cows that seem to get along better with fescue than others. Unfortunately, while these practices can allow you to survive, all these approaches add additional costs to the system every year. Also, during the worst times of toxin exposure, the cattle still visibly suffer, which is not good for them or for our own mental health. At our farm in Southern Virginia, we have used many of these approaches to keep our farm running, but it is a constant battle. We finish many of our calves for the local market, and unfortunately, it takes a lot of feed to get them as fat as we need them. To try to help us meet our production goals, we decided to kill some of our toxic fescue pastures and plant annuals that we could put the finishers on. We also use the annuals to improve the performance of our replacement heifers. It didn’t take very many years for us to realize how much tall fescue had limited the performance of our cattle. Heifers grown through the spring gain over two pounds a day on ryegrass and over 1.5 lb/ day during summer on crabgrass or other summer annuals. They calve in great body condition and require very little feed. This has made a big impact on my thinking because I am really getting tired of the daily toting of feed to make our system work. So back to my title. I am serious that the solution to fescue toxicosis has been discovered at last. The thing that keeps us holding on to toxic tall fescue is that the
plant is so rugged and able to withstand drought and heavy grazing. We need grass first and foremost to make our systems work, and toxic tall fescue does provide a lot of growth. Unfortunately, again, that observation is partially because the cattle just don’t want to eat the forage. The ultimate solution to the problem is novel endophyte tall fescue and other non-toxic forages. While implementing this technology is more difficult than just putting out a supplement tub, it completely solves the problem because you are removing the toxins from the system. Again to the analogy of smoking cigarettes. What is the ultimate solution? You quit. Hard to do? Yes, but I did it four decades ago, and after I got past those terrible cravings, my health has undoubtedly benefited dramatically. As we move our farm into the future, we continue to kill more and more of our toxic fescue pastures to replace them with non-toxic forages. We have plans for some more pure novel endophyte pasture, some complex mixes containing novel endophyte tall fescue, and also for native warm season grasses. My goal is to have a system where I don’t have to carry supplemental feed to our developing
heifers and to minimize the amount of feed it takes to finish our fat cattle. As I age, it is harder and harder for me to carry feed...I can move fence easily, but those 50 lb bags are getting a little bit difficult for me. I want to continue to farm for many years into my old age, and I need to do it on forages, not with a lot of external inputs. As I age, I also don’t want to go to bed at night knowing that I am allowing my cows to suffer from these terrible toxins. I love my cows, and how they feel greatly impacts my mood. If they are miserable, I am miserable, and I am beyond accepting that. Unlike the many solutions on Eldon Cole’s list, novel endophyte tall fescue has given very consistent responses (increases from 0.5 to 1 lb/day in average daily gain) with a significant benefit in virtually every study. Some fear that the novel endophyte tall fescue stands will not last, but again nearly all the research done (and it is a lot) shows that these new tall fescue varieties with proven non-toxic endophytes are very strong and aggressive, just like the toxic fescue we are accustomed to. None of the other items on Eldon’s list can hold
Heifers not on toxic fescue showing bloom. This is never seen on our farm on toxic fescue. up to scientific scrutiny the way novel endophyte tall fescue can. Most importantly, unlike incremental improvement, which continues to cost you money every year, the cost of converting fescue pastures pays back after several years, after which you continue to enjoy the benefits of non-toxic forage for the remainder of time the stands last, which in our experience is indefinite with average grazing management. Also, unlike the annuals that we have depended on, you don’t have to go on buying seed every year and doing all the spraying and planting that goes into an annual program. So, if you raise cattle on a toxic tall fescue base, be aware that the solution to toxic tall fescue has been discovered, validated by university research, and
made available to you through normal seed industry channels. While we still have questions about how to best fit novel endophyte tall fescue into various forage systems, there is no question that as progressive cattlemen assess their options, more and more will realize that they can revolutionize their forage system if they will address fescue toxicosis by removing fescue toxins from the system. As you ponder the latest solutions offered up in advertisements, realize that nearly all these approaches will be expensive and give you only a small improvement. Don’t let the false hope that there will be a silver bullet in a bag of supplement that will totally eliminate the problem. There is only one true silver bullet, and that is novel endophyte tall fescue.
Regular copydeadline is JULY 5 for the AUGUST issue Spotlight material is due
JULY 1 for the
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You Decide! By DR. MIKE WALDEN
William Neal Reynolds Distinguished Professor Emeritus N.C. State University You Decide: How Can We Prepare For The Coming Job Shifts? The focus in the labor market over the past year has been on the labor shortage. All workers who left their jobs during the COVID-19 recession have not returned as the economy has improved. This situation has left many businesses short of help. One of the reasons for the shortage is that many workers have moved on to other jobs that pay better. So, there’s not only been a labor shortage but also a labor reallocation. Economists agree the reallocation of workers will continue in the future, and likely at a faster pace. The reason is the fast development of new technology impacting how work tasks are accomplished. The big questions are, how will this technology change the labor market, what kinds of jobs will expand and what kinds will shrink, and does North Carolina have the training programs ready to facilitate the shift in jobs? Technology has been changing the labor market for decades. The technology of tractors and harvesters took the place of thousands of farmers who moved to the city to work in factories a century ago. Later, new automation in factories pushed many workers to the service sector after World War II. Today, technology is rapidly expanding. Any task that is done over and over, in the same way, can be accomplished by a machine. But the scope of what machines can do is growing. “Artificial intelligence” – which is based on replicating human decision making – is allowing machines to do tasks never before contemplated, like driving, cleaning, and reading data and charts. Futurists expect the emerging technologies will replace many jobs in hospitality and leisure, manufacturing, sales, and even personal services. At the same time, there will be growth in jobs in sectors like information technology, the sciences – particularly engineering, computers, and life sciences - as well as healthcare and financial and business services. In summary, there will be greater need for workers who think and solve problems and less need for workers who perform repetitive and physical tasks. I call this coming change in jobs the “great job shift,” and I, along with many
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other economists, think it will be a big feature of our economy in upcoming decades. Workers entering the labor force will obviously want to be aware of both increasing jobs and decreasing jobs. Perhaps more importantly, we want to make sure there are retraining programs ready for those existing workers who need to change occupations. North Carolina has highly respected public universities and community colleges that are ready to help train new workers and retrain existing workers for future occupations. However, existing workers who are older and have families to support don’t have two to four years to learn new skills. Therefore, North Carolina also needs educational programs available to rapidly re-skill existing workers, programs that take months to finish rather than years. The state also needs an expansion of apprenticeship programs, where an individual learns new skills on the job. Recently, North Carolina expanded funding for apprenticeships. Sometimes workers who lose jobs can find new jobs in other regions of the state, but they don’t have the funds to relocate. The state could consider the establishment of a “relocation fund” for workers who have found jobs in other regions but who have financial constraints on making the move. Through its N.C. Works Centers, North Carolina has served as a clearinghouse for businesses seeking workers and individuals needing jobs. The state may want to consider expanding the use of this information in two ways. One would be to actively suggest matches between businesses and workers. The second would be to use the information on the kinds of jobs workers lost and the types of jobs that need filling to inform educational institutions of skills in demand. Unfortunately, sometimes job shifts occur on a large scale, as when an entire company shuts down. Such large scale closures can be devastating to local communities. North Carolina could think about establishing a “rapid work response unit” to assist displaced workers and communities when large business closures occur. The unit would have two responsibilities – making sure short term assistance for necessities quickly
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reaches impacted households and helping put displaced workers on the path to reskilling and re-employment. Economies constantly change over time as new inventions and innovations occur. In most cases, these changes improve our lives, but there can be problems for some workers in changing from outdated jobs to new jobs. These changes will continue in the future, but probably at a faster pace. Do we have systems and programs in place, so everyone benefits and no one is left behind? You decide. You Decide: What Does The
Language Of Recessions Mean? We frequently use terms and phrases in our language as shortcuts. For example, in my youth, the word “cool” was a shortcut for approval. To complicate matters, the shortcut terms often change over generations. Among today’s young people, “sick” or “dope” are the equivalents for “cool.” For a senior citizen like me, it’s hard to keep up! It’s not just in everyday language that shortcuts are used. Most business sectors and even academic disciplines use them. Economics is a good example. As a professional economist for almost five decades, I’ve learned an entire language
The
Chaplain’s Corral By DALE BRENNEMAN Chaplain, Cowboys for Christ
Fourth of July Experience Last year on the Fourth of July, I participated in a ranch horse show in Old Washington, Ohio. The temperature soared into the 90s and took its toll on people, horses, and cows. As a result, the show was delayed several times throughout the day, and the classes pressed on into the evening hours. It was 9:30 p.m., the arena lights were on, and all was quiet as I entered the gate for my final class, ranch reining. After completing a couple of rundowns, spins, and a set of circles, my horse Patty and I started to make our circles to the right. As we rounded the end of the arena, directly in front of us, just outside the fairground fence, someone set off two professional grade skyrockets complete with salutes. Patty thought her world was exploding. I’m not sure exactly what happened except that we were in the air for a time and did at least one 360º. I grabbed the saddle horn and enough rein to let Patty know everything was okay, despite the world blowing up in front of her. She settled; we finished the pattern and walked out of the arena, calm and collected. Patty didn’t know it was the Fourth of July or what that means; all she saw was the explosion, and her first reaction was fear and the need to escape. Then she realized I was on her back, I had the reins, and because she has learned to trust me over the years, she was willing to settle and complete the job at hand.
In Joshua, chapter 1, God is commissioning Joshua to lead the Israelites into the promised land. The charge to be “strong and courageous” is repeated several times. Joshua is also instructed to “keep the Book of the Law always on your lips: and meditate on in day and night” and “not to turn from it to the right or to the left.” These instructions came with a promise. “As I was with Moses, so I will be with you. I will never leave you or forsake you.” Verse 9 states, “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid. Do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” There are times when we see the world exploding in front of us, and our initial reaction is to panic and run. Don’t! Remember, God has the reins, He is not surprised, and He is in control. If you are His child today, you can rest in His promise to never leave us or forsake us, so we can be “strong and courageous” and finish the course He has for us. If you are not His child, you can be! Come to Him right now, saying, “Lord, I need you. I confess my sins before you. Please forgive me. Help me, Lord, to follow you and serve you and give you complete control of my life. Thank You for being my Savior! Amen.” Be strong and courageous, and may God bless you all.
– or lingo – to describe concepts and actions in the business world. Frequently, economics lingo seeps into everyday conversation, particularly in the media. We’re hearing many of these specialized terms today as fears of an impending recession are becoming more frequent. Hence, in this column, I’ll give you translations of the economic language of recessions. With these translations at hand, you’ll be better able to follow the path of the economy, what a recession means, and the implications of various policy actions. When economists say a recession occurs, they mean total economic activity is “receding” – that is, declining. A variety of factors are used to make this assessment, including total production
of goods and services (called “gross domestic product, or GDP), employment, and income. A non-governmental entity, the National Bureau of Economic Research (NBER), officially makes the call on a recession. Traditionally, NBER has defined a recession only if the decline is for at least two quarters (six months), but this is not a rule. Conversely, the NBER says a recession has ended when the decline in economic activity stops. Notice that this does not mean a recession ends only when economic activity returns to its pre-recession levels. Consequently, unemployment, for example, can remain elevated for several months or years even after a recession has been declared “over.” Much of the economic language of
E.B.'s View from the Cow Pasture By E.B. HARRIS
There is a Reason for Every Happening Being in the auction business, I get phone calls regularly about putting on cattle and equipment sales. Some of these sales are planned three to four months out, while some are planned six months or even 12 months out. Occasionally, one will happen the very next week. This article is going to be about one of those “next week” auctions. I received a phone call one Sunday night recently, and the man said, “E.B., I have a herd of 60-70 head which include cows and calves, and I want them sold now.” We talked about how to get the cattle marketed in this time frame. I would bring the cattle to my farm and match up the cow/ calf pairs, preg check the mature cows, and get them marketed to other family farms. Shane, Zack, and I headed up to the farm on Monday morning with a gooseneck trailer and the semi with the ground loader livestock trailer. From the description of what he had given me, I thought we could get them all on this hauling equipment. We got there and met his significant other at the end of a dead end road. She went on to tell me that he was walking up some cattle. He was on crutches and was going to be on them for three more weeks. He had recently had knee surgery,
and the doctor did not want him putting weight on his knee. He had two other people with him, and they were walking up some cattle that had gotten out. As we headed on down to the catch pen to meet him, I noticed there was one or two head here and there in the woods and the pastures. I have worked a lot of cattle, but I think, without a doubt, this was the gentlest group of cattle I have ever worked. A cow could be standing out in the pasture, and you could get behind her and walk her on up to the catch pen – no funnel, lane, or anything, just open the gate, and she would go right on in. We stood there talking, and he let out the reason these cattle had to go. His significant other was down here yesterday helping him walk up some of the cattle. He was off down in the woods and heard the most nerve wracking screaming and hollering that he had ever heard before in his life. When he got back up there, he found out she had walked up on a snake, and she is horrified of snakes. This is the first time I have ever had an auction where a snake had been part of the reason it was taking place. Of course, there were other reasons too, but the snake was the straw that broke the camel’s back!
recessions deals with policy. The Federal Reserve (the “Fed”) – the central bank of the country – often is the leader in dealing with ups and downs in economic activity. When the Fed “tightens” its policy, it is raising its key interest rate and reducing the growth of money in the economy. The Fed would tighten policy to slow economic activity in order to reduce inflation. If the Fed “loosens” its policy, it is doing the opposite – lowering its key interest rate and increasing money growth. The Fed follows this policy in a recession. As implied by the previous paragraph, one of the challenges in an economy is balancing economic growth and inflation. If the economy grows too fast, inflation can jump. But if fighting inflation means slowing the economy, the worry is that “slow growth” can become “negative growth” – meaning a recession. With the inflation rate now at a 40year high, the Fed has started “tightening” its policy by increasing interest rates and slowing the increase in money. Their goal is a “soft landing” of the economy, meaning the inflation rate is reduced without crashing the economy into a recession. The Fed was able to do this a couple of times in the 1990s. The alternative result is a “hard landing”; that is, inflation is moderated but only after a recession occurs. Obviously, the Fed doesn’t want this result, but sometimes it’s unavoidable. The last time inflation was higher than it is now – in the late 1970s and early 1980s
– inflation was reduced, but only after a very severe “hard landing.” Since the possibility of an upcoming recession is a worry today, we’d all like to have an indicator that tells us if a recession is coming or not. A recession indicator that has one of the best track records is the “yield curve.” The yield curve compares the interest rate (yield) earned on a short term financial investment to the interest rate earned on a long term investment. Usually, government bonds are used. Since there is more risk with a long term investment, interest rates are normally higher with long term investments. Hence, the “yield curve” is positive, meaning short term investments have lower yields while long term investments have higher yields. But if investors worry about the future economic outlook, they will shift away from buying long term investments to buying more short term investments. This action will reduce long term yields and increase short term yields, thereby resulting in an “inverted yield curve.” An inverted yield curve indicates investor worries about the future. While not infallible, if investors are worried about the future, then the likelihood of a recession is higher. I expect that talk of a recession will continue in the coming months. Hopefully, knowing the language of a recession will allow you to better understand the discussion. But will it allow you to better predict a recession? Like you, I’m still trying to decide!
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q JULY 2022
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By CARRIE-GRACE COLEMAN N.C. State University -- ANS 402 Beef Management
Bovine Anaplasmosis and How To Prevent It As we begin to see warmer months here in the Southeast, we can start to look forward to sunshine, calves, and fresh forage for our cattle. Other things you can expect to see are an increase in ticks and disease; although this isn’t something we want to hear as producers, it is inevitable, and we have to work a little harder to get a head start on both the best and worst season for our cattle. One of the most common tick diseases seen in our area would be anaplasmosis, which is extremely contractable among your herd; however, there are steps you can take to decrease this disease in your area. Anaplasmosis is an infectious blood disease that affects the red blood cells in your cattle; it can be spread through tick bites or even non-sanitized surgical instruments (Sheppard). Once the red blood cells are invaded by the anaplasma marginale bacteria, it will spread until all but 1 percent of the blood cells are infected. These blood cells are then carried through the spleen, where they are destroyed due to the foreign bacteria and the body’s fighting mechanism. Red blood cells are extremely important for carrying oxygen to all parts of the cattle’s body, so when destroyed, the cow becomes very anemic. Some signs of anaplasmosis would be lethargy, reduction in feed consumption, a fever, and yellow mucous excretion (Sheppard). Though death isn’t as likely in some herds, there have been cases of 50 percent loss in other herds
for animals over the age of three years (Sheppard). Older animals who have just contracted the disease will show the signs listed, while younger animals with the disease seem to ‘get over it’ quicker; however, these younger animals will have a decreased growth potential, increased chance of abortion or in-utero transmission, and the chance to spread the disease to other cattle throughout the area (Sheppard). Once the animal has contracted anaplasmosis, they are never really able to get rid of it; however, you can treat with daily low level antibiotics, such as doxycycline, during the vector season. The lower level antibiotic could cause resistance in the near future, so it is best to only use it if needed. In areas such as eastern North Carolina, it can be found in nearly every beef animal. The entire herd management system is such that you don’t really notice it as much among your carrier animals. You should annually get your cattle tested by a veterinarian to see if they are carriers, this can help reduce the spread to other animals. A blood sample would be taken from each animal and placed under a microscope; infected cells will have a black dot on them that is very apparent (Figure 1). There is a vaccine available, but if you are in an endemic area, where the majority of the population is already affected, the cost of $8 a shot may not be worth it (Cal Cattleman). A preventative measure that needs
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Figure 1: Red Blood Cells with Anaplasmosis (Russell)
to be taken is external parasite control; anything that can bite your cattle can spread the disease. Examples of problem parasites would include ticks, horn flies, horse flies, stable flies, and mosquitos. Flies and mosquitos can be controlled with insecticide ear tags and reducing fly breeding areas like standing manure and standing water for mosquitos (Huston). Ticks (Figure 2) are your most likely carriers of anaplasmosis, so controlling the biting population with a dip/spray labeled for use in cattle and containing amidines or synthetic pyrethroids is a good idea, as well as using proper pasture management. Ticks like to reside in tall grasses, so keeping your pasture levels
Figure 2: Black legged tick, one of the most common Anaplasmosis spreaders in the Southeast (TickEncounter)
2022 South Carolina Sale Barn Cattle Receipts March
April
May
820
995
546
696
1,237
1,316
2,356
94
1,574
1,173
1,513
1,785
1,247
1,399
766
1,183
1,139
871
972
1,737
2,917
2,838
2,258
2,478
773
2,596
2,26
1,971
2,051
The Carolina Cattle Connection q JULY 2022
to an appropriate height for grazing is important. A current study at Texas A&M is working on the effects of permethrin in pasture control. You should always be using a grazing stick to determine the appropriate grass height for the species of forage found in your field. Do not hesitate to contact your extension agent for help if needed. Reducing traffic from wildlife can help a lot with not only the parasite population but other beef cattle diseases as well, such as leptospirosis and nespora. Meanwhile, introducing chickens or guineas into a pasture is also an option for tick reduction (Davis). Another preventative measure that should always be taken is knowing your area and your animals. Before buying any cattle from outside the area, you should know what they could possibly carry. Cattle in the Southeast who have anaplasmosis can spread it to other areas when crossing state lines. If you do decide to look outside of your area, make sure to isolate the animal(s) from your herd for at least a month, run a few diagnostic tests, or have tests run before purchase so you can know exactly what you are bringing onto your farm. Lastly, make sure to sanitize your instruments. You can spread anaplasmosis
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Figure 3: The life cycle of Anaplasmosis (Amaro-Estrada)
through the use of dirty surgical tools. These tools include, but are not limited to, needles, ear tagging, dehorning, and castration equipment (Aubry, Geale). By simply cleaning these instruments with a neutral pH soap in between animals, you can prevent any further disease outbreak on your farm. Getting ahead of anaplasmosis can seem like a chore to most producers since there is more than one step involved in preventing the disease; however, it should be looked at as a money saving process. By participating in BQA biosecurity steps such as isolation, traffic control, and sanitation, you are preventing a disease that will cause you a loss in marketable pounds and will save the lives of your livestock. Enjoyment of the warm months by both your cattle and yourself is only a few steps away. References Amaro-Estrada I., RodriguezCamarillo S., 2018. Genome Based Vaccinology Applied to Bovine Anaplasmosis. www.intechopen.com/ chapters/59148. Accessed 3 March 2022. Aubry, P., Geale D.W., 2020. A review of bovine anaplasmosis. PubMed. pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih. gov/21040509/#:~:text=Diagnosis%20 of%20bovine%20anaplasmosis%20
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can,pre%2Dsymptomatic%20or%20 carrier%20animals. Accessed 3 March 2022. Cal Cattleman. 2022. Anaplasmosis Vaccine. California Cattlemen’s Association. CCA. calcattlemen. o rg / p o r t f o l i o - i t e m s / a n a p l a s m o s i s vaccine/#:~:text=Anaplasmosis%20 is%20an%20infectious%20 parasitic,weeks%20after%20the%20 initial%20vaccination. Accessed 3 March 2022. Davis, J., N.D. Tick Control In Cattle. Pets on Mom. animals.mom.com/ tick-control-cattle-11372.html. Accessed 3 March 2022. Huston, C.L., 2013. Be on the lookout for anaplasmosis in cattle. Mississippi State University. Cattle Business Magazine. extension.msstate.edu/sites/ default/files/topic-files/cattle-businessmississippi-articles/cattle-businessmississippi-articles-landing-page/vet_ sep2013.pdf. Accessed 3 March 2022. Russell K., 2018. Five things you should know about Anaplasmosis this fall. OK State. news.okstate.edu/articles/ veterinary-medicine/2018/five-things-youshould-know-about-anaplasmosis-thisfall.html. Accessed 3 March 2022. Sheppard, G., 2020. Anaplasmosis in cattle. Texas A&M. TVMDL. tvmdl. tamu.edu/2020/10/19/anaplasmosis-incattle. Accessed 3 March 2022. TickEncounter. N.D. Blacklegged (Deer) Tick. University of Rhode Island. web.uri.edu/tickencounter/species/ blacklegged-tick. Accessed 3 March 2022. About the Have You Herd Article Series. Have You Herd article written as a portion of ANS 402 Beef Management course requirement at N.C. State University Department of Animal Science. The opinions of Carrie-Grace Coleman are not necessarily those of N.C. State University or Dr. Carrie Pickworth.
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FORAGE NEWS By LILIANE SILVA, Clemson University
Growing Alfalfa – Is It a Fit for My Operation? Alfalfa was once a dominant species in the Southeastern United States. The harsh environmental conditions and elevated insect pressure decreased its acreage over time. Newer alfalfa varieties have been developed with improved adaptation to our climate conditions and with dual purpose use (grazing and hay production) that better fit the needs of forage-livestock systems in the region. Alfalfa can be grown in monoculture or in companion with grasses. Once it is a legume, alfalfa will provide nitrogen fixed biologically to the companion grass, decreasing the reliance on the use of inorganic nitrogen fertilizer. A successful system that has emerged from research and demonstration efforts conducted in the Southeast is the incorporation of alfalfa into bermudagrass systems (Figure 1). Both species have similar nutrient and drainage requirements, and in the mixture, their growth complements the seasonal forage distribution. Besides adding nitrogen into the system, the incorporation of alfalfa helps with improved forage quality and to extend the growing season into the fall months. This also allows for the alfalfabermudagrass system to be stockpiled for use in the fall months. More information about stockpiling alfalfa-bermudagrass
systems can be found at hayandforage. com/article-3846-stockpiled-alfalfabermudagrass-helps-cut-purchasedinputs.html. When considering establishing alfalfa, it is important to select a well drained field and to understand the growth requirements for it to work in your operation. Prior to planting alfalfa, soil sampling must be conducted at the surface (0-6”) and subsurface (6-15”) depth to determine pH and nutrient levels and amended as needed. The base pH should be 6.5 or greater on the soil surface. Potassium requirements are high for alfalfa and bermudagrass, therefore, proper fertilization is required to support forage production. Micronutrients will also play an important role when establishing and managing alfalfa, especially boron and molybdenum, once they are required for the biological nitrogen fixation process to occur. After establishment, the first cutting or grazing event should be conducted when the alfalfa stand is around 25 percent bloom to allow for proper root system development and storage of energy reserves. Thereafter, the interval of regrowth recommended is 28-35 days, depending on the forage growth during the season, whether under hay production
Figure 1. Alfalfa-bermudagrass mixture in June.
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Figure 2. Alfalfa bermudagrass pastures can be managed under hay (left) or grazing strategies (right).
or grazing management. Alfalfabermudagrass mixtures can be conserved as baleage (40-60 percent moisture), which is a viable option to decrease the drying time in the field, especially during wetter periods. Proper attention must the given to reaching the adequate moisture range and sealing the bales with several plastic layers in order to achieve proper fermentation. Under grazing, the recommendation is to use rotational management once it allows for a proper resting period which will optimize the chances of success and longevity of the alfalfa stand. Thus, the rotational management allows for a better forage removal and distribution of animal excreta throughout the pastures. If kept under continuous grazing, animals will overgraze the alfalfa plants impacting their ability to regrow after some time. For more information about alfalfabermudagrass systems, please download the online version of our guide (Figure 3) at www.alfalfa.org. A regional effort led by the University of Georgia in collaboration with Auburn University, the University of Florida, and Clemson University has focused on providing research based
recommendations and conducting demonstrations related to alfalfabermudagrass systems. Clemson University recently hosted the “Alfalfa in the South” regional event back in May, with several specialists from the region delivering information on alfalfa and other forages. For more information, visit news.clemson.edu/scientists-farmershelp-queen-of-forages-re-establishthrone-in-the-south%EF%BF%BC/. Photos by Liliane Silva
Figure 3. Alfalfa-bermudagrass establishment and management guide.
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THE SIMMENTAL TRAIL
By JENNIE RUCKER Executive Secretary N.C. Simmental Association ASA Fall Focus. The American Simmental Association has hosted a Fall Focus for several years now, with the exception of the COVID-19 year. The event is held at various places around the country, and I was fortunate enough to attend the Fall Focus when it was held in Gettysburg, Penn., in 2015. I learned so much from the educational meetings and was able to meet some of the premier Simmental producers and some of the staff at the American Simmental headquarters in Bozeman, Montana. This year the Fall Focus is being held very close to North Carolina, in Roanoke, Virginia. It is being co-hosted by the Virginia Simmental Association on August 26-30. The headquarters are at the Hotel Roanoke Conference Center. The event begins with bus tours of several interesting places. Attendees will tour Hillwinds Farm in Dublin. This farm is owned by Tim and Kathy Sutphin, and they run 900 commercial cattle and 400 stockers. The cow herd is Angus and Simmental based. From there, the group will go to McDonald Farms in Blacksburg. This is an eighth generation farm run mainly by Bill McDonald now. Bill is a former ASA Trustee, and he is always busy running a very diversified operation, including his seedstock herd, which is Simmental, SimAngus, and Angus. From there, the tour will go to Virginia Tech, where their cattle research farm also raises Simmental seedstock and commercial cattle. There will be a dinner at Virginia Tech’s Kentland Farm, where music will also be provided by a bluegrass band. On Saturday, the group will be at Hotel Roanoke, where there will be many great educational sessions with nationally recognized speakers in the cattle industry. Sunday through Tuesday, you are able to attend many different trustee board meetings. This is where you can see how the American Simmental Association actually works, and you are welcome to discuss issues that are important to you as a Simmental producer. Cattle producers definitely need to soak up all the information that is available to make a profit in the industry in these trying times. The great news is that there is no registration fee for this event! You must pre-register, however, so the appropriate number of buses, meals, and refreshments are provided. To register,
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go to www.fallfocus.org. I encourage everyone to attend that possibly can. If you are interested in Simmental cattle, this is the place to be on August 26-30. NCSA Fall Harvest Sale. We are
The Carolina Cattle Connection q JULY 2022
looking ahead to our 48th Annual N.C. Simmental Association Fall Harvest Sale. This will be one of the few chances cattlemen and women have to select from a large number of Simmental and SimAngus females from many states, not just North Carolina. Our top producers will be bringing their best genetics to Shuffler Sale Facility in Union Grove, N.C., on September 3. They will be offering bred heifers, open heifers, cow/ calf pairs, bred cows, and herd sire prospects. There will also be some top embryo lots. Cattle will be on display for viewing all day on September 2. Friday is
also our annual meeting, always held at the sale facility. We always have a good time at our annual meeting with almost a party atmosphere, and then it’s business on Saturday at the Fall Harvest Sale! The annual meeting begins at 6:00 p.m. with a beef dinner, and it is always casual attire. For information about this sale, contact the NCSA office at 336-468-1679 or DP Sales Management at 859-9875758. DP Sales Management with Doug and Debbie Parke and Holli and Drew Hatmaker serve as our sales management team. They have done a great job for years and will continue to do so. You can
request a sale catalog by emailing ncsa@ yadtel.net. We hope to see you there! Stihl Chainsaw Raffle. This is the third year that Erin Beth and Preston Pinkston have donated the raffle item from their business, Pinkston’s, in Wadesboro, North Carolina. They are donating a Stihl MS 271 Farm Boss Chainsaw. Tickets are only $2 each or three for $5. You can contact any N.C. Simmental Association member for tickets or send a check with the number of tickets wanted to NCSA, 1341 Highway 21, Hamptonville, NC 27020. Everyone needs a chainsaw at times!
Armed to Farm Farmer-Veteran Training is Headed to North Carolina The National Center for Appropriate Technology (NCAT) is partnering with Appalachian State University’s Frontline to Farm program to bring the free Armed to Farm training to North Carolina for the first time. Armed to Farm will take place July 25-29 at the Appalachian State University campus in Boone. Farmerveterans will attend classroom sessions and travel to local farms for hands-on learning experiences. Armed to Farm trainings include
an engaging blend of farm tours, hands-on activities, and interactive classroom instruction. NCAT Sustainable Agriculture specialists will teach the training sessions, along with staff from Appalachian State University and North Carolina Cooperative Extension. USDA agencies and experienced crop and livestock producers will provide additional instruction. “We’re eager to bring Armed to Farm to North Carolina,” said NCAT Armed
to Farm Program Director Margo Hale. “Armed to Farm has served more than 800 veterans in all corners of the country as they start or grow their own sustainable farm business.” Armed to Farm is a sustainable agriculture training program for military veterans. NCAT, a national nonprofit organization based in Butte, Montana, developed Armed to Farm in 2013 through a cooperative agreement with USDA-Rural Development. Farmer veterans learn how to make a business plan and market their products, how to access USDA programs, set business goals, and develop mentorships with seasoned farmers. “The High Country of North Carolina is a beautiful farming community with great partnerships among the university, cooperative extension, local farmers and nonprofit organizations,” said Dr. Anne Fanatico, Co-Director of Frontline to Farm. “Together we build community for resilience in food systems.” Armed to Farm North Carolina is supported by BFRDP grant 2020-4940032401 from the USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture. Learn more about NCAT’s Armed to Farm and additional training series at www.armedtofarm.org. About the National Center for Appropriate Technology. NCAL has been helping people build resilient communities through local and sustainable solutions that reduce poverty, strengthen self reliance, and protect natural resources since 1976. Headquartered in Butte, Mont., NCAT has field offices in Arkansas, California, Colorado, Idaho, Kentucky, Mississippi, Montana, New Hampshire, Pennsylvania, and Texas. Learn more and become a friend of NCAT at www.ncat.org. About Frontline to Farm. Frontline to Farm, a program sponsored by Appalachian State University’s Goodnight Family Department of Sustainable Development and Department of Communication, helps military veterans and beginning farmers get started in sustainable farming as a livelihood. We support practices that raise healthy food, mitigate climate change, and build community while providing support and reconnection for those who have served. The work of Frontline to Farm is supported by our flagship project, Beginning Farmer and Rancher Development Program 2020-4940032401, from the USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture. Learn more at frontlinetofarm.appstate.edu.
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38 Annual N.C. Angus Association Spring Fever Sale th
By SHARON ROGERS, NCAA Executive Secretary and ZACH MOFFITT, Sale Manager The 38th Annual N.C. Angus Spring Fever Sale was on April 23 at the Shuffler Farm Sale facility in Union Grove, North Carolina. It was a beautiful day with many buyers on hand to view the fine set of cattle in the sale. Over 70 live and frozen lots sold for a sales gross of $206,400, with an average of just over $3,000 on the 60 live lots. The sale was managed by Zach Moffitt Cattle Marketing & Consulting in Concord, North Carolina. The consignors, along with Zach, worked hard showcasing the females before and during the sale. The offering included cow/calf pairs, bred
Bryant Chapman looking at the sale cattle.
morning. Between the crowd and the internet viewers, the sale reached bidders and buyers in over 16 states. The crowd filled the sale arena, and at noon Colonel Mike Jones kicked off the auction. Thank you to the N.C. Junior Angus Association for preparing lunch and to the N.C. Angus Auxiliary for decorating the sale ring.
heifers, open heifers, N.C. Elite Heifers and show heifer prospects, plus semen and embryos. Several visitors came out on Friday afternoon to view the cattle, and lots more arrived early on Saturday Lot 2 and 2A
The crowd looking over cattle before the sale.
The high selling female in the 2022 Spring Fever Sale was Lot 20, Fulcher Rita 1140, consigned by Fulcher Farms in Godwin, North Carolina. The open heifer, sired by WAR Cavalry B063 Z044, posted numbers in the top one percent of the breed for both $B and $C. She was selected by Windy Hill Farms for $15,500. Hill Angus Farm, S&J Farms, and Browns Farm Ridge consigned other stand out open heifers. The 13 open heifers sold for an average of $3,054.
The best of Carson Family Farms.
The N.C. Angus Elite Heifers were a sale feature once again. To qualify for the Elite Heifer status, the females must meet a stringent set of performance and breeding guidelines.
The consignors continue to make the extra effort to have their top quality heifers meet the standards, and this year 12 of the bred heifer consignments were designated Elite. The Elite Heifers sold for an average of $3,800. Lot 34, selling for $6,000, was the high selling Elite Heifer. She was a Sitz Thunderball 734E daughter bred to the popular B.J. Surpass and consigned by Dancing Pedlar Farm. Steve Zybach of Briscoe, Tex., purchased Lot 34. Chapman Cattle Company consigned the Lot 30 Elite Heifer, a Deer Valley Growth Fund bred to E&B Wildcat. She sold to Massey Land and Cattle in Missouri for $4,600. Other N.C. Angus Elite Heifer consignors included: Carson Family Farms, Fulcher Farms, Panther Creek Farms, S&J Farms, Scarlett Farms, Shuffler Farm, and Windy Hill Farms. In total, 22 bred heifers sold for $68,800 to average $3,127.
These girls are getting a little rest in before the sale.
Once again, there was a strong set of fall bred cows with big stout calves. The top fall pair, selling for $7,000, was Lot 9 and 9A consigned by 4K Farms/Tarheel Angus of Siler City. Lot 9, 4K Blackcap D621, was a daughter of KCF Bennett Southside with GAR-EGL Protege on her maternal side. The cow was bred to Deer Valley Optimum for a fall calf. She sold to Butcher Branch Angus and Chapman Cattle Company. Her stout September bull calf, sired by GAR Sunbeam, sold to Champman Cattle Company. Shelton Angus Farm consigned the top selling fall
Getting in that last minute viewing before the sale.
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North Carolina Angus Association ANGUS MEANS BUSINESS Backed by the world’s largest and most reliable genetic evaluation program. Registered Angus genetics deliver better calving ease, more growth, and superior marbling.
Cow/calf pairs in the sale.
pair with a heifer calf at side in Lot 3 and 3A for $6,250. Sired by GAR Ashland, Lot 3, WHS Ashland Blackbird 39G, was A.I. bred to HPCA Veracious. Lot 3 sold to Star Peak Farm in Jonesville. Dula Farms of Taylorsville purchased her Deer Valley Wall Street heifer calf, Lot 3A. The 15 fall cow/calf pairs sold for an average of $4,240. Consigned by 3S Farms, Lot 55 was the high selling fall bred cow going to Katie Colin Farm in Cartersville, Ga., for $4,250. The top selling spring pair selected by Jayme Collins was Lot 58 and 58A consigned by 4K Farms/Tarheel Angus.
Dakota. Thank you to all the buyers who bid and purchased from the sale. New to the sale for 2022 were semen lots graciously donated by Admiral Associates, S.T. Genetics, Genex, and ABS to benefit the N.C. Angus Association. Also, thank you to Fulcher Farms for donating semen on EE/FF Tomahawk with sale proceeds benefiting the N.C. Junior Angus Association.
The frozen lots also made a positive impact on the sale. Fulcher Farms of Godwin offered one unit of Connealy Clarity. The semen generated extensive bidding in the house and online and sold for $2,200 to Van Beek Ranch in South Dakota. ZWT Ranch of Crossville, Tenn., consigned the high selling embryos, offering four conventional embryos by SAV Bloodline 9578 and SAV Elba 918. These embryos went to Pleasant Hill Farm in Kentucky for $3,000. Volume buyers were Gregory Hooker, Butcher Branch Angus, and Dula Farms. CCi.LIVE hosted the sale online. Cattle and embryos sold into North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia, Kentucky, Missouri, Texas, and South
Again this year we had a great sale day crew. Thanks to AAA Regional Manager Reese Tuckwiller, Joe Hampton, Neil Bowman, Suzanne Brewer, and Renee Hill for helping to work the sale. Also, thank you to the Spring Fever Sale Committee, especially Brent Scarlett and Daniel Wall, to Colonel Mike Jones and Zach Moffitt for making the sale a success. We look forward to seeing everyone again next spring for the 39 th Annual Spring Fever Sale.
BACK CREEK Joe & Robin Hampton Mt. Ulla 704-880-2488 (Joe); 704-880-3572 (Robin) robinbackcreek@att.net Facebook: Back Creek Angus
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!
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
FOUR S FARMS Kim & Connie and Jason & Robin Starnes Luther Lyerly - Manager Salisbury 704-640-5875 kim-4sfarms@carolina.rr.com
TRIPLE LLL ANGUS Greg Little Monroe 704-219-1294 greg.little@ATImetals.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
What a crew! Thanks for all your help at the sale.
bundylane@hughes.net laneangusbeef@gmail.com www.laneangusbeef.com
4K FARMS/TARHEEL ANGUS Richard D. Kirkman, DVM Siler City 919-742-5500 rdk.cefa@gmail.com
BILTMORE ESTATE Kyle Mayberry - Manager Asheville 828-768-1956 livestock@biltmore.com www.biltmorelivestock.com
Joe Hampton is the best ring man.
There was a big crowd on sale day.
455 GORE FAMILY ANGUS Mark & Lori Gore Tabor City 702-401-8005 455goreangus@gmail.com www.455farms.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
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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Certified Angus Beef News Feeding Quality Forum Registration Open. Save your seat by July 31 for this premier cattleman event. As cattlemen continue to experience black swan events and rising input costs, so does their need for information on the latest production trends that pay. The 17 th Annual Feeding Quality Forum (FQF), hosted by Certified Angus Beef (CAB), brings together people, insights, and solutions to generate greater revenue for cattle feeders and cow/calf producers. The event will be at the Hilton Kansas City Airport in Kansas City, Mo., on August 23-24. “Feeding Quality Forum creates an environment of like minded cattlemen and industry partners who want to be at the forefront of high quality beef production,” says Kara Lee, CAB director of producer engagement. “If you’re interested in raising, managing, and marketing the best finished cattle, this event brings together the people and information to do so.” FQF attendees learn more about practical, profitable, and progressive ideas for raising cattle in high demand. To stay on the cutting edge of premium beef production, register at
FeedingQualityForum.com. Registration is $200 from July 1-31. Student registration is $50. Tuesday’s afternoon sessions will kick off with Dan Basse, president of AgResource Company, sharing a global market update. Other sessions include risk management strategies, how to earn premiums for high quality carcasses, and an overview of shoppers’ meat purchasing habits. “We’re in a fast paced, ever changing business,” Lee says. “To stay ahead of the curve and be profitable, you have to be in the room for tough conversations and be willing to work together to find answers.” The evening program will recognize the 2022 Industry Achievement Award recipient, Randy Blach, CattleFax CEO. Blach has dedicated his career to analyzing cattle, grain, and protein markets around the world to provide timely insight to cattlemen to make riskmanagement decisions. He joins the ranks of such industry legends as Paul Engler, Topper Thorpe, Lee Borck, Larry Corah, John Matsushima, and Bob Smith, who have also been recognized for their contributions to the feeding industry.
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The Carolina Cattle Connection q JULY 2022
“This conference is all about cultivating success and innovations in the fed cattle industry,” Lee says. “Honoring an influential leader who helped pioneer those successes has become a signature part of the program. It’s always a treat to showcase their contributions and celebrate among their peers.” Wednesday morning will start with a look into CAB’s sustainability efforts to maintain its premium beef market share. Other topics will highlight cattle health at the feedyard, the beef-on-dairy landscape, and best practices for getting the most for your feeder calves. For those interested in learning more about how beef gets to restaurants, sign up for the exclusive, pre-event Beef Blitz on the morning of August 23. The special tour is limited to the first 45 attendees who claim a spot. The visit will include a tour of CAB licensed distributor Sysco Kansas City, followed by lunch before the opening FQF program. Beef Blitz is a free addition to registration, space permitting. Find more information on the event and register at FeedingQualityForum.com. Students Extend Learning into Summer Internships with Certified Angus Beef. Four college students join CAB for the summer. For some students, learning doesn’t stop when they leave the classroom. The up-and-coming leaders in the beef business get hands-on experience, networking with professionals, and putting their classroom knowledge to work. Four students join the Certified Angus Beef (CAB) team this summer, eager to learn, grow, and contribute. Joining the video production team as the studio intern is Claudia Adcock. She grew up part of a large family in Orrville, Ohio, and is majoring in digital media production at Ashland University. “I enjoy being able to use my talents and love for photography and videography to bring joy to others,” she says. “I’m excited to jump into this company and continue to grow my skills.” Putting her enthusiasm to work for the Digital Marketing team is Kindle Catching. A native of Howe, Tex., Catching comes from a cattle production background and works as a part of her family’s auction business. The senior at Texas Tech University is an animal science major with an interest in agricultural communications. “Certified Angus Beef is in tune with all the things I am passionate about,” says Catching, digital marketing intern. “They have a passion for service, people and giving back – but along the same lines, it’s beef with a mission.” She says the brand’s mission and values feel just like home.
That’s also what drew this year’s public relations intern to the brand. “Certified Angus Beef is one of the most recognized brands,” Daniela Medina says. “They are representing ranching families across the United States and I’m looking forward to working alongside these people.” Medina grew up in Pilot Point, Tex., and discovered agriculture in high school FFA. From there, her love of advocating for beef led to an agriculture communications degree from Texas A&M University. She is currently pursuing a master’s degree at the University of Arkansas in agricultural education and extension with a focus in communication and leadership. “I look forward to grasping Certified Angus Beef’s reach across the supply chain and more opportunities to advocate for the beef industry,” Medina says. Serving as the communications intern is Lauren Mosher. Raised on a fifth generation diversified crop and livestock farm in Liscomb, Iowa, she represents one of the families who raise CAB. The Iowa State University senior in agricultural communications can connect her cutout data on fed steers and her cows in the pasture to the stories she will tell this summer. “For many years, I’ve watched the product I raise earn this brand’s label,” Mosher says. “It’s neat for me to keep learning about the brand and meet the people who work on behalf of the producer and consumer.” She says the internship is a great chance to grow her skill set and gain a better understanding of how CAB shares beef ’s pasture-to-plate story across varying audiences in the supply chain. Setting students up for successful careers is the foundation of CAB’s internship program. “As a former Certified Angus Beef intern, I personally understand the value a summer with the brand can have on a young person’s career,” says Nicole Erceg, director of communications. “This year’s interns are all bright, talented, and passionate young leaders who I know will do great work on behalf of Angus breeders.” Taking education beyond the classroom, this year’s interns are already hard at work, learning along the way. 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 American Angus Association welcomes 2022 interns. Furthering skills through industry experience for seven interns. Investing in tomorrow’s professionals is an important part of the culture at the American Angus Association. This summer, the Association welcomes seven interns to contribute to multiple departments and entities, including Angus MediaSM and Angus Genetics Inc. Throughout the program, interns will work alongside industry experts to advance skills, expand their professional network, and be immersed in the cattle industry. Interns come from across the globe and bring various backgrounds to the Association. Chelsea Langley will join the Association as an events and education
intern. Originally from Camp Hill, Ala., Langley graduated from Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College with a Bachelor of Science in Agribusiness. Langley’s passion for agriculture began on her family’s sixth generation cattle and timber farm, where she competed in rodeo events and showed livestock. Langley is excited to take on a new adventure and travel the country serving Angus members. “I feel honored for the opportunity to intern at such a prestigious breed association,” Langley said. “I am looking forward to learning all the moving parts that go into coordinating Angus shows and making remarkable connections along the way.” Jentry Squires, originally from Kingfisher, Okla., will also serve as one of
two events and education interns. Squires is a graduate of Butler Community College and is a current agricultural communications and animal science junior at Oklahoma State University. Coming from a swine and cattle background, Squires hopes to gain knowledge from industry professionals specific to the cattle sector as well as enhance youth members’ experiences at junior events. “I am looking forward to learning about the many large and successful events the Association coordinates,” Squires said. “Additionally, I hope to play a small role in contributing to the success of junior shows and bring an exciting experience to exhibitors.” A.J. Knowles joins the Association as one of the two AGI® interns and will be helping the team research reproductive traits. Originally from Dallas, Tex., Knowles started out working at a dairy operation, where his interest in animal genetics began. As a current Ph.D. student at the University of Missouri, Knowles looks forward to learning from industry experts while providing cattle breeders with advanced genetic technology.
“I hope to further my education while simultaneously working to create useful genetic tools for cattle producers,” Knowles said. “Additionally, I want to provide breeders with resources to make decisions based on the most current science.” Rudi McEwin, of Adelaide, South Australia, will also serve as one of the two AGI interns. McEwin recently graduated with her Ph.D. from the University of Adelaide with a focus in quantitative genetics and genomic technology. Coming from a commercial cattle background, McEwin is familiar with both the breed and business. She is excited to work within the association’s enormous database and assist the team in researching potential EPDs. “I am excited about working and learning from a talented research group,” McEwin said. “I hope to assist the AGI team in their research to provide Angus breeders with the best genetic tools and EPDs to meet their breeding goals.” Lindsey Sawin will join Angus Media as the Angus Beef Bulletin intern. Originally from Vernon, Tex. Sawin is an
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agricultural media and communications junior at West Texas A&M University. Although she didn’t come from a cattle background, Sawin grew up showing sheep, competing in rodeo events, and was active in her 4-H and FFA chapters. This summer, she hopes to write stories that will benefit Angus readers. “I am looking forward to sharing the stories that set ranchers apart,” Sawin said. “I also hope to arm the readers of the Angus Beef Bulletin with applicable information and facts.” Faye Smith of Walton, Kan., will also join Angus Media as the editorial intern for the Angus Journal. Smith is an agricultural communications and journalism senior at Kansas State University with a minor in mass communications. Smith’s passion for the beef industry began on her family’s Shorthorn cattle operation, where she was involved in showing cattle and serving in national leadership roles. This summer, Smith is eager to grow her skills as a journalist and learn more about the Angus breed. “I have always valued the Angus Association for producing cutting edge content in their communications and media teams,” Smith said. “I think their work is innovative and trendsetting, so the opportunity to work for Angus has always been a goal of mine.” Sierra Walter will serve the Association as the communications intern. Originally from Hydro, Okla., Walter attends Oklahoma State University as an agricultural communications senior with a minor in agricultural economics. Walter was raised on a small cattle ranch where she was heavily involved in showing and raising horses. She is excited to learn more about the cattle business while strengthening her communication skills. “I truly feel blessed to work alongside professionals who are extremely talented and passionate within their trade,” Walter said. “I am looking forward to gaining hands-on experience and new skills to hopefully better serve agriculturalists.” Angus Foundation’s second annual Angus Day of Giving raises over $55,000. Celebration of 149 years since the first Angus bulls arrived in the United States raises funds to support youth, education, and research efforts for the breed. The Angus Foundation held its second annual Angus Day of Giving on May 17 and raised over $55,000 to further its mission of supporting Angus youth, education, and research efforts. The event celebrated the day George Grant brought the first Angus bulls to Victoria, Kan., on May 17, 1873. The Angus Foundation held the first Angus Day of Giving in 2021 and raised $14,000.
“ We w e r e a m a z e d b y t h e overwhelming generosity we saw from the Angus family for our second annual Angus Day of Giving,” said Jaclyn Upperman, executive director of the Angus Foundation. “Our donors made it a day to not only celebrate the legacy of our breed, but also write the next chapter of the Angus story.” The Angus Foundation received charitable gifts from donors across the country, including a $20,000 matching gift from an anonymous Angus breeder. Supporters also celebrated this momentous day in the breed’s history by sharing their Angus impact stories using #AngusDay on social media. Gifts made on Angus Day of Giving support the Angus Fund, which provides unrestricted support as the Angus Foundation works to carry out its mission. The Angus Fund helps support youth leadership through programs like the National Junior Angus Board, Leaders Engaged in Angus Development (LEAD) Conference, and Raising the Bar Conference. It provides educational resources for producers through Angus University and events like Beef Leaders Institute, and it answers questions to advance the Angus breed through ground breaking research. To learn more about the Angus Foundation and its efforts, visit www.AngusFoundation.org. Many Angus youth have benefitted from Angus Foundation funded scholarships and found success in their chosen fields. To see their Success Stories, visit www.bit.ly/ AngusSuccessStories. 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 $3.9 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.
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News New Partnership Expands Hereford Marker Opportunity. The American Hereford Association and Jake Drost of JRD Cattle Company in Klamath Falls, Ore., recently formed a unique partnership whereby Drost will serve as an independent order buyer matching buyers with sellers of Hereford and Hereford influenced feeder cattle. “Hereford genetics add cattle feeding value through feed efficiency and carcass quality,” Drost says. “However, here in the West, buyers are sometimes unable to reward the added value because of numbers and how cattle are assembled. I aim to bridge that gap and provide producers of Hereford and Hereford
influenced feeder cattle with increased market opportunity.” Drost grew up in the cattle business and maintains a passion to continue learning how specific traits and management practices impact cattle feeding performance and end product merit. As an AHA commercial marketing partner, Drost will continue to build AHA’s relationships within the cattle feeding sector while helping market producers’ cattle. He also will help producers broaden their knowledge about the gamut of variables driving feeder cattle value. “The American Hereford Association
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is excited to announce this innovative partnership,” says Jack Ward, AHA executive vice president. “Jake’s experience adds momentum to our quest of helping producers capture more value for Hereford and Hereford based genetics.” Drost can be reached at jdrost@ hereford.org or 806-884-5426. Vejraska Joins the American Hereford Association Team. The American Hereford Association welcomed Kelsey Vejraska as the audio visual specialist on May 31. Vejraska will strategize, plan, and execute studio and field based video and photo productions, championing the creative process from conception to delivery. Leading the development of visual storytelling, she will create a consistent message for the association. “I have always been passionate about telling the producer’s story and creating demanding content for the public,” Vejraska says. “The AHA has a bright future and I am excited to be able to tell the stories of Hereford breeders and commercial producers across the nation.” Originally from North Central Washington, Vejraska grew up involved as the fourth generation on her family’s Angus operation. During her time as a member of the National Junior Angus Association (NJAA), she served as the communications director for the 2020– 2021 board of directors. She is a recent graduate of Oklahoma State University with a bachelor ’s in agricultural communications and agribusiness. “Kelsey’s talents in the realm of videography and photography coupled with her previous industry experience provides us with an exciting opportunity to advance our breed and industry communication efforts,” says Jack Ward, AHA executive vice president. Prior to joining the AHA, Vejraska interned with the Oklahoma Youth Expo and Legacy Livestock Imaging. She brings a wealth of experience to the team from her previous internships and collegiate involvement. Shive Named Hereford World Managing Editor. Sydnee Shive recently joined the American Hereford Association as managing editor of Hereford World magazine (HW). She will help maintain HW as the communication voice of the Association and the breed. Shive will coordinate a variety of projects for the HW and related association communications. “I am excited to begin working with the Hereford World staff,” Shive says. “I cannot wait to see what the future holds for the publication, and I am thankful for the opportunity to join such a talented
team.” Shive recently graduated from Kansas State University with a Bachelor of Science in agricultural communications and journalism. Originally from Mount Hope, Kan., Shive has a great deal of experience in communications. Shive was editor of the Kansas State Agriculturist, communications intern for Kansas Farm Bureau, photographer for Legacy Livestock Imaging, and owner of Sydnee Creative. “The magazine and the association will benefit from Sydnee’s writing talent, skilled photography, and her passion for the cattle business,” says Wes Ishmael, HW executive editor. “We’re fortunate to have her join our team.” Lewis Hired as HPI Creative Services Coordinator. Bailey Lewis is the new creative services coordinator for Hereford Publications Inc. (HPI). She grew up near Strong City, Kan., before attending Oklahoma State University (OSU), Stillwater, Oklahoma. Lewis graduated with a bachelor’s degree in agricultural communications and a minor in agricultural leadership. “I am thrilled to be joining HPI and I look forward to this opportunity to work with the Hereford team,” Lewis says. “I’m eager to begin connecting with Hereford producers around the country and promoting the breed through print and social media.” During her time at OSU, Lewis was involved with the Freshman In Transition program, Agriculture Future of America, and OSU Swine Club. Lewis joined the HPI team on May 16 with a wealth of communications and industry experience in journalism, graphic design, social media management, p h o t o g r a p h y, a n d v i d e o g r a p h y. Previously, she worked with Taylor Fort, Cowboy Journal, Chesterfield Wedding Barn, Black Leg Ranch, and the OSU Swine Unit working in a variety of roles. “We are excited to have Bailey’s cattle industry knowledge along with her communications skills,” says Caryn Vaught, HPI production manager. “We believe she will be an excellent addition to the HPI staff.” Hayes Joins Hereford Team. The American Hereford Association is pleased to welcome Debbie Hayes of Kansas City, Mo., as the newest receptionist. Hayes will serve as the customer service liaison between AHA members and customer service representatives. “This is my first role in the beef industry,” Hayes said. “I am excited to
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Hereford News continued from page 26 learn all that I can to better serve AHA members.” Previously, Hayes worked in a variety of administrative professional roles. She was the unit coordinator for the State of Kansas Department for Children and Families and was co-owner and office administrator for Hayes Properties, LLC. “Having Debbie join the team has been an asset to the customer service department at the AHA with her prior experience,” says Laura Loschke, education and information services coordinator and records supervisor. “We look forward to her getting to know breeders and assisting them with their various needs throughout the association.” Hereford Feedout Program Success Continues. Hereford breeders and commercial users of Hereford genetics enrolled a record number of steers in the 2022 Hereford Feedout Program to find out how their genetics perform in the feedlot and on the rail. Cattle arrived at HRC Feed Yards in Scott City, Kan., in December for a feeding period ending in May-June. Program participants receive feedlot performance data throughout the feeding period and individual carcass data at harvest. “The impressive carcass data from the first group harvested is a testament to the value of Hereford genetics and the diligence of progressive producers wanting to provide the highest quality beef,” says Trey Befort, American Hereford Association director of
commercial programs. “As this year’s program concludes, the data we will be able to provide the industry will reinforce the value of Hereford genetics for both purebred and commercial producers wanting to continue improving carcass quality and feed yard performance. Previous research has shown the feed efficiency advantages of Hereford genetics and the cattle in this program will further validate those studies.” Cattle from the Hereford Feedout Program are harvested by the National Beef Packing Company, which is the licensed beef processor for Certified Hereford Beef® (CHB). Cattle in the Hereford Fed Steer Shootout Program are candidates for CHB and are marketed on the U.S. Premium Beef® Grid, ultimately providing producers access to industry leading marketing options. “Everyone involved in the beef industry has a role in feeding the world,” says Lee Mayo, HRC Feed Yards general manager. “If we can teach breeders and have them take ownership and responsibility for the end product, I am really excited to see the progress of the Hereford breed over the next 50 years.” Seedstock and commercial producers interested in participating can contact the AHA or HRC Feed Yards to discuss the program. The enrollment deadline for the 2023 program is November 1. Cattle can be delivered to HRC Feed Yard from December 10-14. “I encourage any producer interested in taking part in the Hereford Feedout Program to contact Lee or myself to
understand their options,” Befort says. “This unique opportunity is one that can propel an operation forward in terms of genetic selection while also rewarding quality cattle.” For more information about the Hereford Feedout Programs, visit hereford.org/genetics/breedimprovement/feedout-program/. Numbers Announced as Hereford Youth Head to Louisville for the VitaFerm Junior National Hereford Expo. The 2022 VitaFerm Junior National Hereford Expo (JNHE) is making the venture to Louisville, Ky., after two years of being hosted in Kansas City during the pandemic. “Banners in the Bluegrass” will be held July 16-22 at the Kentucky Fair and Expo Center, and the National Junior Hereford Association (NJHA) is thrilled to announce there are 2,031 entries from 775 junior members who are gearing up to compete in the show ring and contest arenas throughout the flagship event. Excitement continues to grow as exhibitors from 39 different states plan to head to the Bluegrass state in July. With the economy at the highest rate of inflation since 1982, according to the U.S. Inflation Calculator, these numbers prove that the enthusiasm surrounding the JNHE never wavers and encourages involvement for Hereford youth and their families. This year will also host the return of several in-person elements of the educational contests that went virtual during the pandemic. Junior members
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from across the country are excited to grow in leadership, public speaking, and life skills. More than 400 of the attending juniors will participate in contests such as extemporaneous speech, illustrated speech, sales contests, future professionals contests, and the judging contest. Thanks to the Hereford Youth Foundation of America, scholarships with a total value of $33,000 will also be awarded to deserving junior members who applied and went through a rigorous interview process in May. “As a breed we look forward to July and preparing for one of the greatest weeks of the year where we gather as a Hereford family to showcase the talents of the next generation in and out of the showring, “ says Amy Cowan, American Hereford Association Director of Youth Activities and Foundation. “The Junior National Hereford Expo has so much to offer our youth in terms of personal development and leadership opportunities, and we are extremely grateful to all of our partners and friends who come together to make it all possible.” Gates open at 2:00 p.m. on July 16, and the public is invited to come watch the shows that get underway in Broadbent Arena on July 18 at 8:00 a.m. and run through July 22. For a complete schedule, please visit hereford.org/youth. About the National Junior Hereford Association. The NJHA is one of the largest, strongest, and most active junior cattle programs in the country. Over the years, members of this association have gone on to earn international and domestic respect as models for youth organizational success. The NJHA, through its extensive educational programs, continues to lay the foundation for the beef industry’s future leaders. The traditions of the past, coupled with the energy of today’s board of directors, have created a progressive approach to further develop a meaningful and educational association focus. About the American Hereford Association. The American Hereford Association, with headquarters in Kansas City, Mo., is one of the largest U.S. beef breed associations. The not-for-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.
Beloved Cowboy Poet Baxter Black Passes On June 10, Baxter Ashby Black, large animal veterinarian, cowboy poet and philosopher, husband, father, and papa, rode his old horse on home. Just before sunrise that day, Jesus signed on one more ol’ cowboy to ride the Golden Fields across the Jordan. The iconic cowboy poet and storyteller had humble beginnings. He was born to Robert and Teddie Black at the Brooklyn Naval Hospital just before the end of World War II. He was the first of what would eventually be four brothers: Baxter, Bob, John, and Stephen. The family traveled through West Virginia, Texas, and ended up in Las Cruces, N.M., where Baxter would call home. When Baxter was 15 years old, his life changed dramatically as his father, Robert, who was the youngest Dean of Agriculture at New Mexico State University, passed away unexpectedly, and he became the man of the house. All while doing his part for the family, he continued to play the guitar, among many other things, but he always went to church on Sunday. He made his first attempt at writing in high school where, as he would recall, “I wrote something religious, I think…” His teacher’s encouragement, after marking an F the size of Texas in red on the paper, was, “Baxter, write about what you know.” As Baxter began college, he started wondering about what he would major in. His first love was agriculture. There was also a war going on again, and he didn’t want to get drafted. He did go in on more than one occasion and take his physical for the Navy. He ‘wanted to fly one of those big planes’ is what he would tell those recruiters. His decision to apply for veterinary school came when he realized that no matter what came about, he could always ‘fix your cow .’He applied to Colorado State University. He was accepted, providing that he finished a few math classes. At the end of his third year, the only thing standing between him and vet school was a 58 percent in “triggernometry” (60 percent was passing). He went ‘begging’ his teacher to give him that D. The graduate teacher finally conceded as long as he vowed to “never take Calculus or Trigonometry again.” He kept that promise for the rest of his life! Veterinary school saw his jovial and entrepreneurial spirit and vigor take flight again. Baxter made and sold leather belts, brewed coffee in the mornings, cut hair, and did laundry, all for those willing to
on 150 stations through the years. He sold over two million copies of his books, CDs, and DVDs. He was on the Johnny Carson show on several occasions and was a regular commentator on NPR’s Morning Edition for 20 years. He lived his life guided by a simple faith in Jesus and his admonishment to “Love God, practice forgiveness and mercy to all who offend, and to care for the least of these.” No one was a stranger to Baxter, whether you sat next to him on the airplane for 30 minutes or knew him for decades. Every person he met was a friend. Something that Baxter would always
pay a few cents. He even counted ants one summer for a grad student’s research project. He also earned a few dollars playing in a band with a couple of his classmates on the weekends. Baxter graduated from veterinary school in 1969 and eventually ended up in Idaho working as the company vet for the J.R. Simplot company. It was while out there driving around and talking to the old cowboys that his storytelling started to take root. There were no TVs and very few radios in those days, so he would take his guitar and tell stories. He found that he could take the cowboys’ stories, write a poem about them, tell it back to them, and they loved it. In 1980 he ended up in Denver, Colo., working as the troubleshooting vet for a pharmaceutical company. Baxter’s reputation as an entertainer spread. Soon the constant requests for his brand of poignant, insightful, and hilarious programs allowed him to transition from part time cowboy poet to full time cowboy entertainer. Shortly after forming the Coyote Cowboy Company, he married his wife of 39 years, Cindy Lou, and became the father of Jennifer. A decade later, his son Guy was born, and after Jennifer graduated high school, they moved down to Benson, Arizona. Over his 40 year career, Baxter wrote about what he knew, cowboys, cowgirls, rodeo, cattle, horses, and ranch life. He wrote with a flair that still captures the imaginations of everyone who reads his stories today. He spoke throughout the United States, Canada, and Australia. His column was printed in over 130 newspapers, and his radio program was
say after getting home from one of his frequent trips seems profoundly fitting for his journey through this life. Should Jesus look at him and say, “How’d it go?” it is easy to imagine Baxter, with a beaming smile shining out from under his mustache, saying, “Lord, I made ‘em laugh, and that’s all that matters.” Baxter is survived by his wife, Cindy Lou Black; his daughter Jennifer Cubbage, husband Will, and their children William and Savannah; his son Guy Black, wife Jessica, and their children Gwendolyn and Magnolia; his two brothers, Bob and Steve and his two dogs, Solomon and Rudy.
I Know You’ll Miss This Man By BAXTER BLACK, DVM The Lord spoke to the heavy hearts that stood with hats in hand “Your sadness pains me deeply, and I know you’ll miss this man But, it’s true what you’ve been hearing, Heaven is a real place. That’s no small consolation. You should use that fact to face The emptiness his parting left that seeps into your bones And draw on it to ease your pain. For he is not alone. You see, all his friends are up here and all his loved ones, too, ‘Cause, it wouldn’t be a Heaven without each one of you. And Heaven for a cowboy is just what you might expect, It’s horses that need tunin’ up and heifers that need checked. It’s long rides with a purpose and a code that lights the way And a satisfying reason to get up every day. It’s the ranch he’s always dreamed of and never knew he’d find And if you think about it, you can see it in your mind. Him, leanin’ in the saddle with his ol’ hat on his head, Contentment set upon his face like blankets on a bed. The leather creaks a little as he shifts there in the seat. The bit chains give a jingle when his pony switches feet. And you somehow get the feelin’ that he’s sittin’ on a throne A’gazin’ out on paradise just like it was his own. I can promise you he’s happy, though I know you can’t pretend You’re glad he made the journey. It’s too hard to comprehend. The earthly way you look at things can never satisfy Your lack of understanding for the answer to the ‘Why?’ So, I offer this small comfort to put your grief to rest, I only take the top hands ‘cause my crew’s the very best. And I know it might seem selfish to friends and next of kin But I needed one more cowboy, and Baxter fit right in.”
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Farm Credit News AgCarolina Farm Credit Teams with Carolina Mudcats for Agriculture Night. AgCarolina Farm Credit once again teamed with the Carolina Mudcats for Agriculture Night on June 10 at Five County Stadium. Agriculture Night was highlighted by post game fireworks and a souvenir t-shirt giveaway for the first 1,000 fans with paid admission to Five County Stadium. AgCarolina Farm Credit and the Carolina Mudcats are excited for a night of recognizing the efforts and impact of agriculture in North Carolina. Agriculture is the state’s number one industry, contributing nearly $93 billion to the economy. North Carolina is recognized across the country and around the world for being a leader in the production of flue cured tobacco and sweetpotatoes. Chicken, turkey, and hog production are also noted leaders in the livestock industry nationwide. North Carolina farmers produce over 80 different commodities across the state. “AgCarolina Farm Credit is committed to being the lender of choice for the agricultural and rural communities of eastern North Carolina,” states President and CEO Dave Corum. “AgCarolina will always seek ways in which we can highlight the agricultural industry through partnerships like this one with the Carolina Mudcats. Remember to thank a farmer for the food you eat and the clothes you wear!” AgCarolina Farm Credit employees donate to Ukraine Crisis Relief. AgCarolina Farm Credit is proud to announce a $5,000 donation to Baptists on Mission Ukraine Crisis Relief Fund.
Employees have the option to participate in AgCarolina’s “A Cause a Quarter” program. The quarterly campaign requires a $25 donation from participating employees to a nonprofit voted on by all employees of the Association. Participants can dress casually each Friday of the quarter in which they participate. Chosen by employees for the second quarter of 2022 was Baptists on Mission Ukraine Crisis Relief. With employee and Association contributions, the total donation amount is $5,000. Representatives from Baptists on Mission state every dollar received will feed one person in Ukraine for one day. “ A g C a r o l i n a F a r m C r e d i t ’s employees have a heart for trying to make a positive difference where they can,” said AgCarolina CEO Dave Corum. “A Cause a Quarter is the product of an employee suggestion and has been a great way for the AgCarolina team to understand how we can make an impact in the communities we serve in eastern North Carolina. With the crisis unfolding in Ukraine, some employees reached out asking if our cause a quarter funds could make a difference across the world. We reached out to Baptists on Mission, a group we have partnered with on numerous projects, including hurricane relief and with farmers to families food donations. The Baptists on Mission have connections to individuals with boots on the ground in Ukraine. These funds will directly impact the lives of those living in the crisis areas. Up to five thousand Ukrainians will be fed from the funds donated by our employees.” To learn more about AgCarolina
Pictured from left to right - AgCarolina Accounting – Arlene McCaffity; AgCarolina Marketing – John Bledsoe; Baptists on Mission – Paul Langston; and AgCarolina HR – Samantha Ojedamoya.
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Farm Credit, visit their website at www. agcarolina.com. 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.
A Tribute to Paula Pickler By CLINT REESE Paula Pickler, who worked for the N.C. Cattlemen’s Association for 15 years, passed away on April 2, 2022. She was born on June 18, 1938, in West Virginia and lived many decades in Garner, North Carolina. Paula served as the secretary/office manager of the N.C. Cattlemen’s Association from 1973-1984. She was employed at N.C. State University prior to coming to the association. From 1984-1987, she and her husband worked together doing trim work on houses. Pat said, “She’s the best cutoff man I’ve ever had,” in the trim carpentry business. In 1987, Paula was enticed to come back to the association and serve as editor of their newly formed publication, The Carolina Cattle Connection. She served as editor until she retired in 2000. Paula established a sterling reputation in the community through her work and friendship. She was an artist and taught art lessons. She also wrote for the Garner News. She was a charter member of Lord of Life Lutheran Church, where she was active in leadership and numerous ministries, including advising the youth group, singing alto in the choir, editing the newsletter, running the church office, and serving the community through the Social Concerns Ministry. Paula was among the original “kitchen ladies” preparing breakfast for the Garner Morning Rotary Club, where she was inducted as an honorary Rotarian. It was said many times while Paula was working that she was a loyal, dedicated, efficient, and talented worker. Whatever she did was professional, correct, and on time. She could write poetry, paint pictures, and take dictation as fast as anyone could talk, and it would be corrected even if it was dictated incorrectly. Paula was a one-of-a-kind talent that will probably never be duplicated. The N.C. Cattlemen’s Association is fortunate and indebted to the dedication and talent of Paula. Paula was a loyal friend and stood in as mother to those who needed her. She loved animals and caring for plants. She had a wicked sense of humor and played a sharp hand of Rook with a good partner. She was sustained by her faith in times of trouble and welcomed home lovingly by her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. She will be sorely missed until we see her again. Paula was preceded in death by her parents, Walter and Helen, and her husband, Pat. She is survived by the many people whose lives she touched at Lord of Life Lutheran Church and throughout the Garner community.
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.)
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1475 National Highway • Thomasville, NC 27360 Store - 336-886-1737 • Cell - 336-250-0572 www.thebarnloft.com PAGE 32
The Carolina Cattle Connection q JULY 2022
Feeding With Efficiency By TY DAVIS, Ph.D. Purina Animal Nutrition LLC It’s the time of year for many of you to start feeding your weaned calves. With prices the way they are, I think it’s important to really analyze your feeding program to make sure you are growing your cattle as efficiently as possible. When deciding what feed to use, it’s important to identify how you feed. Is your operation using a self feeder, or are you hand feeding? Do you have high quality hay to go along with your feed, or do you need a feed with added fiber to support their gut health? Are you mixing your own feed and need an additive, or do you need to purchase a complete feed? When I’m out in the field, these are the types of questions I need to figure out the answer to make my recommendation. One thing I have noticed when speaking with producers is some people can get hung up on the protein percentage. Is protein important? Absolutely it is. But, in my opinion, it’s not the most important part of your feed quality. Furthermore, the protein percentage is not the determining factor of feed quality. To put it simply, not all feeds are the same quality or meant for the same purpose, even if they do have the same protein percentage. Some feeds are meant to be lower performing and thus less expensive. These feeds can be
used as a cowcatcher or maybe as a holding ration. There are some in the mid-price range that can be used for several purposes, like a holding ration and a performance ration, depending on your rate of feeding. Lastly, there are the higher priced feeds that are meant to produce the highest rate of gain on your feeder cattle with the lowest feeding rate. When deciding which feeding program is right for you and your operation, it is incredibly valuable to have a working relationship with your cooperative and/or your feed salespeople in your area to get the information necessary when deciding which feed is right for you. When I am speaking with a producer who is trying to figure out which feed to use when backgrounding cattle, I often do the math with them to show them that the higher priced performance feed is the one that will best affect their bottom line. When backgrounding cattle, the lowest cost per ton feed you can buy is oftentimes the most expensive feed you can buy. I know this sounds counterintuitive, but it all comes down to one value: cost of gain. The math to figure out cost of gain is fairly simple. You just need to divide the price per ton of your feed by 2,000 to get your cost per pound of your feed.
Then speak with your cooperative or feed salesperson to find out what the conversion of that feed on average is. Then take your cost per pound of feed and multiply it by the conversion rate to get your cost of gain. The less expensive and lower quality feeds typically have a very high conversion rate. When I say conversion rate, I am referring to how many pounds of feed you must give a steer before he is able to turn that feed into a pound of gain. Sure, the price per ton of this feed is less expensive, but when it comes to the cost of gain, you can actually lose money per pound of gain. Whereas with the more expensive per ton feed, the conversion rates are much lower and thus yield a lower cost of gain. For example, I quoted a producer the other day my cheapest feed and a higher priced feed that I have at my disposal with Purina and Performance Feeds. The cheapest feed had a best case scenario of $1.53 cost of gain, and the more expensive feed had a cost of gain of $1.02. That 50¢ difference can really add up when you think about trying to add 150 pounds per head in your backgrounding operation. When I think about the types of situations I’ve seen and the recommendations I’ve
made, there’s really no all encompassing answer for anyone. But if a producer wants a cow catcher or a less expensive holding feed, I typically point them in the direction of our PLF 13 feeder blend. If someone is using one feed for many uses, like a holding ration and a performance ration, I will most likely point them towards the PLF 15 Extra Calf or PLF 16 Extra. Lastly and typically, the hardest decision to make when in these situations is recommending a performance ration. In short, if someone is looking for a feed to hand feed, I will point them towards our PLF 14 Fast Start, PLF Ultra Gain 16, 4 Square Backgrounder 14, or 4 Square Developer 13. If someone wants a self feeder option, our Accuration Cattle Limiter 1 is our best option due to its inherent limiting technology and low conversion rates. I will say, however, that the 4 Square Backgrounder 14, 4 Square Developer 13, and PLF 14 Fast Start do have the ability to be self fed if the producer can keep an eye on their self feeder gate height and intakes to make sure their cattle are not over consuming. To make the right recommendation, I highly recommend contacting your local Purina/Performance dealer, or you can contact me directly at 817-727-2250 or Tdavis1@landolakes.com.
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The Carolina Cattle Connection q JULY 2022
Carolina Video and Load Lot Monthly Summary (Weeks ending MAY 3 and May 17)
Carolina Video and Load Lot Monthly Summary of Mid-Atlantic Cattle Sales ending Tuesday, MAY 3, 2022, and Mid-Atlantic Cattle Sales ending Tuesday, MAY 17, 2022. 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 0-2 percent shrink and sold with a 5-12¢ per pound slide on the heavy side only.
Cattle Receipts: 2,687
Last Month: 2,603
Feeders made up 100 percent of the offering. The feeder supply included 53 percent steers, 2 percent dairy steers, and 45 percent heifers. Nearly 97 percent of the run weighed over 600 pounds. Head totals are based on load lot estimate of 49,500 pounds.
.
Head 33 65 65 59 59 55
Wt. Range 735-735 750-750 750-750 825-825 825-825 885-885
FEEDER STEERS (Medium and Large 1-2) Avg. Wt. Price Range Avg. Price 735 $156.75 $156.75 750 $157.50 $157.50 750 $150.00 $150.00 825 $155.00 $155.00 825 $146.75 $146.75 885 $154.00 $154.00
Head 47 81 70 60 69 67 65 65 251 119 60 109 28
Wt. Range 575-575 600-600 690-690 700-715 700-700 725-725 750-750 750-750 775-775 810-825 815-815 875-890 900-900
FEEDER STEERS (Medium 1-2) Avg. Wt. Price Range Avg. Price 575 $173.75 $173.75 600 $181.75 $181.75 690 $169.00 $169.00 711 $147.50 - $150.00 $148.25 700 $159.00 $159.00 725 $159.50 $159.50 750 $161.75 $161.75 750 $166.00 $166.00 775 $152.75 - $156.25 $155.37 817 $155.00 - $157.50 $156.26 815 $142.75 $142.75 885 $143.25 - $146.50 $144.89 900 $140.00 $140.00
Head 58
Wt. Range 835-835
HOLSTEIN STEERS (Large 2) Avg. Wt. Price Range Avg. Price 835 $125.50 $125.50
Head 33 63 64 61
Wt. Range 735-735 765-765 760-760 800-800
FEEDER HEIFERS (Medium and Large 1-2) Avg. Wt. Price Range Avg. Price 735 $146.75 $146.75 765 $146.00 $146.00 760 $148.25 $148.25 800 $147.75 $147.75
Head 47 47 141 69 42 134 124 65 119 61 59 59 14
Wt. Range 575-575 625-625 685-690 700-700 700-700 720-725 750-785 750-750 815-825 800-800 825-825 825-825 900-900
FEEDER HEIFERS (Medium 1-2) Avg. Wt. Price Range Avg. Price 575 $158.75 $158.75 625 $145.00 $145.00 687 $145.00 $145.00 700 $143.75 $143.75 700 $137.50 - $138.00 $137.67 723 $142.50 - $143.25 $142.88 768 $150.25 - $152.00 $151.13 750 $136.75 $136.75 820 $136.50 - $137.50 $137.00 800 $148.75 $148.75 825 $134.50 $134.50 825 $132.50 $132.50 900 $128.00 $128.00
Delivery Split Loads Value Added Value Added Natural Delivery Split Loads Split Loads
New NCCA Members for 2022 Onslow County Sidney L. Lanier, II – Green Meadow Farms Sidney LeGrand Lanier, III – Green Meadow Farms
In 2007, members of the Membership Committee passed a resolution at the NCCA Annual Conference to recognize all NEW members of the NCCA in The Carolina Cattle Connection. 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 for the past month are identified here by name and county of residence.
Randolph County Austin Beane Darby Carpio Emma Green Brady Hopper Ethan Hulin Mason Millikan Allie Richards Brooklyn Sharpe Rueben Walton Riley Yates – Yates Cattle
Alamance County Shannon Holliday Cabarrus County Josh Sullivan – Sullivan Cattle Company Caswell County Arianna Cahill
Rockingham County Madison Huffman Tyler Jacobs Taylor Manuel Ashton Owens Laura Perez Chloe Schofield Mallary Walker Lydia Webster
Duplin County Oliveah Jackson Camille Talton Kalan Talton Guilford County Teaira Shelley Laina Watkins
Union County Michael Passaro – Pasco Vacca Ranch
Natural Value Added Value Added Natural Split Loads Delivery
Delivery Split Loads Natural Value Added Value Added Delivery Split Loads Natural Split Loads Value Added Natural Value Added Split Loads
Source: N.C. Dept. of Agriculture - USDA Market News Service, Raleigh, N.C. - 919-707-3156
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NEWS
Five Tips for Hiring a Qualified Fencing Contractor. So, you have a fence to build, but you’re looking to hire someone to do it? Whether it’s because you’re short on time or lack fencing experience, there are some things to keep in mind when you hire a fencing contractor. After all, proper installation is key to building a fence for the long run. Luckily for you, we asked Bekaert Fence Pro Van Medley to share his tips for hiring and working with a fence contractor. And he gave us five great tips! Plus, a ton of questions you can ask when you reach out to the contractor. 1. Know what your end goal is Before you first call a fencing contractor about your job, you need to know what you want. “You want to have a fairly good knowledge of what your end goal is and the overall fence you want before you call a contractor,” Medley says. “Think about things like where you want the fence and what the fence will be used for.” Eventually, when you find a contractor you like, you will have them do an on-site visit. “Knowing what you want allows the contractor to make recommendations when they visit you,” Medley shares. “For example, maybe they see where you want to build your fence but the terrain isn’t ideal. They can direct you on where to move the fence.” When you have your goal in mind, a good contractor can help you plan your fencing project for the best end result. You can also map your fence with the Bekaert Fencing Calculator to get an idea of the size of your project. When done, email your fence calculator project results to yourself and share it with potential contractors. 2. Check the contractor’s credentials - Before you hire a fence contractor, you need to see their credentials. “Check if the contractor has experience building the type of fence you desire,” Medley says. “For instance, a contractor who specializes in barbed wire may not have experience working with electrified smooth wire.” Secondly, Medley advises looking at their previous work. “When picking a contractor to work with, never hesitate to ask them for photos of their work. Maybe even ride out to a job they’ve done in the past to look at it. I encourage you to do
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this if you’re newer to fencing. It will help you visualize what the fence will look like on your place.” If a contractor will not show you their work, Medley says that is a red flag. “A fence contractor is usually proud of the work they do and wants to show it off. So, they should be more than happy to share photos or take you to a job site. If they’re hesitant to share their past work, that is a big red flag to me.” 3. Use the Contractor Locator on the Bekaert website - If you want to take the guesswork out of hiring a qualified contractor, use the Bekaert Contractor Locator. It shows you pre-qualified contractors within a certain mile radius from your location. The team at Bekaert has developed The Contractor Advantage Program (The CAP) with landowners in mind. Bekaert assesses each contractor that wants to join the program through a thorough process. “Our goal as we vet these contractors is to make sure we’re getting expert fence contractors out to your place,” Medley says. “The process includes a phone interview with them, they submit pictures of their work, and then we do an on-site evaluation of their fencing.” Working with a contractor who has qualified for The CAP will ensure your fence is built by one of the best. 4. Ask questions, including the specifics of the fence - Before hiring a contractor, make sure you understand how they build a fence. Some specific questions to ask that Medley recommends are: • What type of braces do you build? (Read our article on common bracing problems to learn more about braces.) • What is the length of your braces? • How deep do you set your post? • What type of products do you use? “You want to make sure that the wire they use has a good coating on it for longevity,” Medley advises. “And to make sure that when using wood posts that they are treated wood posts.” There are also some general questions to ask, including: • When are you able to start this project? • What is your timeframe for a fence like this? • Can I get a written estimate?
The Carolina Cattle Connection q JULY 2022
• How is your quote developed? Do you charge by the foot or hour? Does it include materials and a set percentage? • Do you have liability insurance? “That last one is super important,” Medley advises. “You’re going to have equipment and people on your property. So you don’t want one of their employees to get hurt and liability to potentially come back on you.” 5. Sit down with the contractor and chat about expectations - A lot of things go into a fencing project. That means, when you’re working with a contractor, you need to discuss who is handling what so nothing is missed. “When you’re getting ready to hire a contractor, I like to sit down and write out exactly what the contractor’s expectations and responsibilities are and what is expected of the landowner. That way, there is no confusion.” Some questions Medley advises asking during this conversation include: • Who is responsible for marking the new fence line? • Does the landowner or the contractor tear out the old fence? • Is the landowner responsible for disposing of the old fence? • Who will supply the fence materials? • Who is going to call the utility company? “Always have this conversation
beforehand,” Medley says. “That way a contractor doesn’t show up and move in all of their equipment and you don’t have the supplies they thought you were getting.” Need more advice on hiring a contractor? If you have questions about hiring a fencing contractor or how to use our Contractor Locator, Medley and the Bekaert Fence Pros are available to answer them. Submit questions at fencing.bekaert.com/en/contact-us, and a member of The Bekaert Fence Pro team will respond within 24 hours. Are you a fencing contractor? Bekaert wants to bring you business while providing our customers with qualified, value driven contractors they can trust. To inquire about joining The CAP, email us at CAP@bekaert.com or fill out our contact form at fencing.bekaert.com/en/ contact-us. About Bekaert. Bekaert is a world market and technology leader in steel wire transformation and coating technologies. We pursue to be the preferred supplier for our steel wire products and solutions by continuously delivering superior value to our customers worldwide. Bekaert is a global company with almost 29,000 employees worldwide, headquartered in Belgium, and over $6 billion in annual revenue. For more information, visit www.bekaert. com.
BRAHMAN NEWS Aging Accounts Receivable Update. On May 19, the American Brahman Breeders Association Board of Directors voted on and passed a new rule in regards to Aging Accounts Receivable over 90 days old. All past due accounts that are at least 90 days or more outstanding shall be frozen, and no work shall be done until the balance is paid in full. Effective July 1, any and all accounts receivables over 90 days will be frozen until the entire balance has been paid in full. There will be no work processed by the ABBA during the time that the account is frozen. On July 1, all accounts still maintaining a balance will be frozen
in Digital Beef, and no work will be processed until paid. Please contact the ABBA Office at 979-485-5528 or abba@ brahman.org if you have any questions or would like to make a payment. About the American Brahman Breeders Association. The American Brahman Breeders Association is the world registry for Brahman cattle, the #1 beef breed for efficiency, hybrid vigor, and environmental adaptability. ABBA provides an array of member services, educational opportunities, and a wide array of programs to assist the profitability of its members. For more information about the American Brahman breed or the many opportunities offered by the ABBA, visit www.brahman.org.
The 2023 Farm Bill: What is it and Why Does it Matter to Cattle Producers? Every five years, Congress is tasked with reauthorization of the Farm Bill, the multi-million-dollar bill that funds numerous agricultural and food programs governed through the United States Department of Agriculture. Farm Bill reauthorization is a critical priority because, without it, the continuation of some agricultural related programs would cease, and much needed policy updates to Farm Bill programs would not be made. In fact, failure to reauthorize the Farm Bill would result in reverting to versions of the bill passed in the first half of the 19th century that simply will not work for today’s producers. As the deadline for the 2023 Farm Bill approaches, preliminary conversations around Farm Bill priorities are underway between Congress and industry groups. While the bill does not need to be reauthorized until next year, Congress will engage with stakeholders in the agricultural and food industry for months to determine the components of the Farm Bill. Writing this bill is a huge undertaking
as it encompasses 12 titles spanning from nutrition to crop insurance to conservation. While a large portion of the overall bill is allocated toward nutrition assistance programs, cattle producers benefit from the bill through a variety of ways. As a result, NCBA’s Government Affairs team is already engaging with key members of Congress to ensure cattle producers benefit from both new and existing provisions in the bill. Even in early conversations, our team stressed the importance of continued funding for the National Animal Vaccine and Veterinary Countermeasures Bank (NAVVCB) to protect against Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD), secured in the 2018 Farm Bill. This is an important tool as the cattle industry works toward proactive preparedness in the case of a foreign animal disease outbreak. As part of our 2022 Policy Priorities, NCBA is focused on the financial sustainability of farms and ranches. One way we can promote that is by ensuring the continuation of
USDA risk management and disaster assistance programs. It is critical to protect these programs for producers and make sure they meet producer needs as severe weather conditions, including snowstorms, hurricanes, and drought, continue across the country. In addition, conservation is anticipated to be a key focus for many. As discussions around conservation drive the focus of the bill, we are working to ensure that conservation measures included are voluntary and allow cattle producers across the country to do what they do best – conserve the land and natural resources in a way that is suitable to their region of the country and the type of operation they are running. While there are several provisions NCBA will advocate for, the Government Affairs team is also working to ensure certain provisions are not included, such as a separate livestock title. Cattle producers across the country benefit from programs administered through other titles in the Farm Bill, but efforts
to create a separate livestock title would not be beneficial to the industry as it could increase government oversight and regulations on certain programs and business practices, and it opens the door to unwanted policy initiatives. As debate ramps up between industry groups and Congress, NCBA has already been engaged in conversations to ensure decision makers understand how cattle producers benefit from this legislation. In addition, the team is working to ensure we have the critical relationships to help secure beneficial provisions. However, like any other NCBA policy, our official priorities will be determined by membership. State affiliates will have the opportunity to present policy recommendations to our current Farm Bill Directives, and members will vote to determine NCBA’s official next steps at the Summer Business Meeting in July. Please do not hesitate to reach out to your state affiliate or NCBA staff with questions you have regarding this process and how you can get involved.
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NCBA
President’s Report By DON SCHIEFELBEIN
National Cattlemen’s Beef Association
Your Voice in Washington
Volatility in the cattle markets has been a challenge for all of us over the past few years. Cow/calf producers, stockers, backgrounders, and feeders alike all benefit when the market is transparent and all participants play by the rules. The challenges in our markets have also captured the attention of Congress. A few weeks ago, I was invited to testify before the House Agriculture Committee at a hearing on meatpackers and market conditions. Currently, we face a shortage of beef processing capacity at a level not seen in several decades. I emphasized the importance of financial support for small, regional processing facilities to increase hook space and return leverage to the side of the producer. I also urged Congress to press the Department of Justice to complete its investigation into the four major meatpackers that was first launched in 2020. After two years, we have yet to hear the results of the investigation, but we need answers before considering new regulations. In the meantime, our industry is facing new challenges from inflation, rising input costs, and labor shortages, and I asked Congress to focus on these concerns too. One of the things that stood out to me when I visited Washington, D.C., is
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how NCBA commands the attention of lawmakers and their staff. There is an organization ready to lobby Congress on every imaginable issue, but NCBA is different — not only because people enjoy seeing our hats — but because of our time-honored policy process rooted in a diverse membership. Since 1898, NCBA has been a forum for cattle producers in every sector and region to discuss issues and build consensus. In my family’s operation, we all come with different perspectives, but we talk together, debate, and move forward with a united front. NCBA policy is set the same way. We each have vastly different business practices, and we face different regional conditions, but we all come together to drive policy forward. Through collaboration, we send a powerful message to policymakers. As a member, I’m honored that you invested in NCBA, and I thank you for trusting us to represent your interests. Testifying before Congress is only one example of how NCBA works to improve conditions for cattle producers. Still, every day we are notching victories on policies that keep the government out of our way or make our jobs a little easier. I know that being a cattle producer is
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not an easy life, but it’s a rewarding one steeped in heritage and tradition. That is why NCBA fights for you. You have important work to do running your farm or ranch, which is why we have a dedicated team in Washington to advocate for you. Every day, NCBA monitors hours of debate on Capitol Hill, meets with agency staff and reviews the hundreds of rules churned out by regulators each week. It’s an overwhelming workload for one person,
but your membership in NCBA supports this crucial work that protects the entire cattle industry. Next month you will have an opportunity to add your voice to the policy process at NCBA’s Summer Business Meeting in Reno, Nevada. I am always encouraged when members have thoughtful conversations about our future policy priorities, and I look forward to connecting with you in Reno. Thank you for your continued involvement in NCBA!
Honoring Paul O’Dell Paul Smith O’Dell, from the Ekom Beach community in Laurens County, South Carolina, will turn 100 years old on August 14. He graduated from Hickory Tavern High School and Daughon’s Business School in Greenville, S.C., then voluntarily enlisted in the Army at the age of 20. He was in WWII and honorably discharged on Christmas Eve of 1945, where he returned home and purchased additional land beside his family farm on Reddy River. He got married, had three children, and has lived on the home place all his life. Paul is a lifetime farmer and cattleman who started out in 1949-1950 raising commercial Polled Hereford cattle. He bought a small herd and upgraded his stock using top notch bulls. He worked very hard producing good grass for his cows and grew grains and custom hay on rented land. In the mid-’60s, he got an exceptional Angus bull to put with his heifers, which made a good cross. He was into selective breeding, and his heifers went on to produce lots of milk and have heavy calves. In the ‘70s, his sons, Craig and Jerry, wanted to start having Limousin cattle, so they bought five brood cows and kept heifers from them. With the progression of time, they bought registered brood stock, but it took Paul three years to get convinced to use a Limousin bull. One day he needed a bull, so he got a Limousin one. Their calves turned out with exceptional quality and came in high demand. When people saw the calves that were produced, they were sold on buying bulls from Paul. He got the Laurens County Beef Herd Improvement Award every year from 1983 to 1994, where your weaning weight average was at least 450 pounds. One of many articles written on him in 1976 said his calving percentage was 94 percent. Paul received many awards for his excellent cattle. Paul was a hard worker who took care of the farm while his boys got jobs, but they were home a lot to help out. Paul was the third or fourth breeder of Limousin cattle in South Carolina when he started out. Clemson Extension people were always appreciated. They would come out each year to grade his cows. His commercial mama cows were as good as registered ones. Paul was also involved in County Council for many years, which helped him make sure agriculture was protected and promoted. He was present when S.C. Agriculture Commissioner Bryan Patrick announced his plans to construct a livestock sales facility in Laurens County. He was very civic minded and helped Laurens County grow in all areas. He was a county commissioner before the present council form of government was formed. Whatever he did, he went at it with full force and made the best of whatever he did. His pride and joy was having one of the leading cattle herds in Laurens County. He was a charter member of Laurens County Cattlemen’s Association, serving as president at times, was awarded ‘Cattleman of the Year’ twice, and received the Lifetime Agriculture Leadership award. In 1994, he sold his cattle and went into just growing horse hay. As anyone in any kind of farming or ranching knows, it’s a hard, continuous struggle making it profitable, but Paul worked hard all his life, has a wonderful testimony, lived an amazing life, and the Lord has blessed him. Submitted by the Laurens County Cattlemen’s Association
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Federation of State Beef Councils Update Putting Beef in Online Baskets. While the number of people shopping online for groceries was already growing, the COVID-19 pandemic launched e-commerce popularity into hyperdrive. When COVID-19 brought the world to a screeching halt, 67 percent of consumers ordered groceries online. 1 And even though people are getting back to more normal routines with work, school, and play, the ease and convenience of buying groceries online has kept 63 percent of consumers continuing with online shopping habits, with nearly half saying they will continue to use pick-up/delivery for groceries in the future.2 The good news for beef is that consumers are becoming more comfortable shopping for fresh beef online as well. More than 40 percent of consumers purchase fresh beef when ordering groceries online, which is up 18 percent compared to May 2020. 2,3 Consumers are also happy with their online beef purchases, with 82 percent of consumers satisfied with the ground beef they received.2 Based on these changing buying behaviors, the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA), a contractor of the Beef Checkoff, is focusing on e-commerce as a way to connect with consumers where they are shopping and encouraging them to add beef to their carts. NCBA has developed several successful Beef Checkoff funded programs promoting beef to online shoppers. In November and December 2021, NCBA partnered with Sam’s Club to promote beef and the Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner. brand during the holidays on the retailer’s digital properties. Holiday beef digital ads were placed on the Sam’s Club website and app, directing consumers to a page where they could add beef to their shopping cart. Almost 40,000 consumers interacted with the ads, and those ads drove more than $8 million in beef sales, with 8.6 percent new buyers to the beef category. The return on ad spend for the campaign was $41.72, which means that for every Checkoff dollar spent on the project, nearly $42 was returned in beef sales. In addition, the effort was supported by 14 state beef council partners who helped increase the overall reach and impressions and also brought additional beef sales to individual states.
Promoting beef through online shopping platforms also complements other promotional efforts. For example, when the Federation of State Beef Councils, on behalf of the Beef Checkoff, partnered with Daytona International Speedway to sponsor the Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner. 300 in February 2022, promoting beef to consumers at home reached a broader audience and extended the positive beef message beyond NASCAR fans. Funding provided by 13 state beef councils made an e-commerce campaign with Kroger possible, which drove the beef message home for families while they were shopping for groceries online. The Kroger Beef 300 promotion in January and February generated more than five million impressions and resulted in $982,000 in beef sales. With 45 percent of purchasing households new or lapsed beef shoppers, the effort also inspired those who haven’t purchased beef online to put beef in their online baskets. Efforts encouraging consumers to buy beef online go beyond the retail level by targeting food service as well. A recent partnership with McDonald’s and Door Dash yielded big results for beef. During the first week of November 2021, McDonald’s promoted two beef offers on the DoorDash delivery platform and utilized the Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner. logo, which paired well with the famous golden arches in this national campaign. Ads featuring the Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner. logo appeared on mobile app and website versions of the DoorDash homepage and McDonald’s store page. McDonald’s also promoted the offer heavily through social media channels such as Instagram, YouTube, and Facebook. Over the five day promotion, total beef sandwich units on DoorDash increased 22 percent (compared to the same time the previous year), which was a very high sales lift for this type of campaign, with results typically at ten percent or less. Nearly 250,000 offers were redeemed, totaling more than $5 million in sales. According to McDonald’s, this was one of their highest participation programs ever in terms of the number of redemptions. In addition, during the time of the promotion, McDonald’s chicken sales decreased approximately five percent. Another avenue for connecting
with consumers online is through beef recipes. To make it easy and seamless for consumers to find inspiration for cooking beef at home and shop at the same time, beefitswhatsfordinner.com now uses technology that makes beef recipes shoppable. Consumers can click on any recipe on the website, add all the ingredients needed to prepare that meal to an online shopping cart for a local grocery store, then have the ingredients delivered directly or ready for curbside pick-up. E-commerce will continue to be a driving force for beef sales, so what’s cooking for the future? So far, during the 2022 summer grilling season, Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner. had a rotating banner ad on the home page of SamsClub.com on June 22-28. This is the first time that the Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner. brand was featured in this exclusive advertising space. The beef focused ad was expected to deliver 64 million impressions and encourage shoppers to add beef to their carts. Beef will also be featured in a promotion in conjunction with Kroger nationwide. From July through early September, the Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner. brand and beef images will provide grilling inspiration to more than 17 million targetable Kroger consumers via Pinterest. With nearly 2,800 stores in 35 states under 24 banner names, it is estimated that one of every two U.S. households includes Kroger shoppers, making Kroger an ideal partner to promote beef to families across the country. Whether consumers are shopping online for groceries, ordering lunch for delivery, or looking for inspiration for cooking at home, NCBA and the Beef Checkoff are making sure beef is top of mind and easy to buy. References 1 Online Grocery and Meal Ordering, April 2020 2 State of Consumer Survey, Dynata Platform, July 2021
Online Grocery Shopping Study, May 2020 Promoting Beef to the Next Generation of Consumers. Beef’s role in social, economic, and environmental sustainability goes far beyond today’s grocery shopping consumer. Kids are influencing their family’s buying behaviors and are more engaged with social issues than ever before. NCBA recognizes the importance of educating America’s youth about beef’s positive sustainability story and is creating fun and exciting ways to reach the next generation of consumers. As part of this year’s reputation management initiatives around sustainability, NCBA is partnering with kid focused media outlets, such as The Week Jr. and ScoutLife. Through these partnerships, kids and parents alike are directed to the newly created Beef Sustainability for Kids page on the Beef Checkoff funded Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner. website. On the page, kids can find videos, graphics, games, articles, and kid approved beef recipes to learn more about beef production across the country. An important aspect of the online content is kids sharing their stories of life on the ranch with their urban neighbors. Another kid friendly promotion is the partnership with FOX’s MasterChef Junior. Contestants cooked with beef for a Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner. challenge during the May 19 episode. “It’s so exciting to have Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner. back on network television,” said Sarah Reece, NCBA’s senior executive director of brand marketing. “It’s amazing to see kids create these fantastic dishes that inspire people to cook and enjoy beef.” The winner of the beef challenge and their recipe will be featured on BeefItsWhatsForDinner.com, and the winner will also learn more about America’s beef farmers and ranchers through a trip to a working cattle ranch, which will be scheduled for later this summer. 3
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q JULY 2022
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A Message from the CEO By COLIN WOODALL
National Cattlemen’s Beef Association
It’s Farm Bill Time
Hard to believe, but it is time to start work on another Farm Bill. The current bill expires at the end of September 2023, so that does not give Congress much time to get such a large piece of legislation completed. Farm Bills have set American agriculture policy since 1933, when the Agricultural Adjustment Act was passed by Congress as part of FDR’s New Deal. That bill focused on creating programs to reduce surplus and raise commodity prices through the payment of subsidies in exchange for reducing the production of certain crops. Each Farm Bill has had its own unique impact, and as the eighteenth version considered since the original, there is no doubt the 2023 Farm Bill will do the same. Farm Bills are complex due to the sheer breadth of issues they cover. This single piece of legislation sets the tone for how the federal government structures commodity programs, crop insurance, conservation programs, and more. It is interesting to note that more than 75 percent of the 2018 Farm Bill funding went to nutrition programs such as food stamps, officially known as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP. That percentage surprises a lot of people, but the general thought behind its inclusion in the Farm Bill is that urban members of Congress need to take interest in American farm policy, and the only way to do that
and pass a Farm Bill is by including the programs that many of their constituents use. However, failure to pass the House’s version of the Farm Bill in the summer of 2013 demonstrated that Congress needs to make sure they have taken care of farmers and ranchers first. NCBA was one of the organizations that worked to defeat that Farm Bill because it failed to address our priorities. After its initial defeat in the House, the 2014 Farm Bill ultimately passed, and it ended up being the last bill where NCBA’s priorities were based on playing defense. For years, NCBA’s mantra was to stay out of the Farm Bill. More specifically, we have long advocated against the inclusion of a Livestock Title. It was the Livestock Title in the 2008 Farm Bill that set the stage for the GIPSA rule that took us a decade to fix. So, as work commenced on the last Farm Bill, we made the decision to change course and focus our lobbying efforts on establishing a foot and mouth disease vaccine bank. Thanks to your grassroots engagement and our team in D.C., our proactive push worked. Not only did we get the vaccine bank, but having Congress focused on what we wanted kept a lot of other bad ideas from coming up. House Agriculture Committee Chairman David Scott and Senate Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry
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Committee Chairwoman Debbie Stabenow have commenced hearings to get feedback from producers on the needs for this next Farm Bill, and we will be at the table. Before we can do that, however, we need your input and guidance. Our grassroots policy process will drive our list of priorities, and that conversation will take place during the Cattle Industry Summer Business Meeting in July. Thanks to previously passed policy brought forward by the Kentucky Cattlemen’s Association, we know that risk management will be high on our list. USDA’s Risk Management Agency has several products available to help cattle producers of all sizes better manage market risk. After the past two years, we know that programs such as Livestock Risk Protection could be beneficial, but we will need to make some changes to improve it. Our policy discussion will
determine those changes and give us the charge we need to get them included in the Farm Bill. Those discussions cannot happen without you, so plan on attending. Our timing is perfect because even though hearings have started, we must remember that a very important mid-term election is coming our way in November. Farm Bills tend to add an additional level of consternation to any political environment, but especially to one that is uncertain. There is nothing more uncertain right now than who will control Congress next year. It is uncertain how much money will be available to write a new Farm Bill. It is uncertain whether they can get it done on time, especially since history says it is highly unlikely they meet the deadline. Regardless, we will be prepared to engage with Congress and use this critical piece of legislation to help you and your operation.
The Ken Holloway Genetics on Ice Benefit Auction and Ken Holloway Memorial Scholarship Awards. The oversight committee for the All American Futurity Scholarship Program and Genetics on Ice Benefit Auction met in April to discuss the renaming of the scholarship program generated out of Genetics on Ice and the Genetics on Ice Benefit Auction itself in honor of Ken Holloway. Ken Holloway was as dedicated a Limousin breeder as any man could possibly be. That dedication was also extended to his family, fellow breeders, and friends in the cattle business across the country. Ken was also the breed’s most dedicated supporter of the North American Limousin Junior Association since its inception. Ken started the Genetics on Ice Program in 1984 to provide the vehicle that not only financed the junior association’s activities annually but additionally helped run the All American Limousin Futurity until its conclusion in 2020. The Genetics on Ice Benefit Auction has raised over $1.75 million of revenue for the Limousin Junior Association. Today, thanks to Ken’s foresight and passion for juniors in the Limousin breed, the proceeds that previously funded the Limousin Futurity show were diverted to fund over $17,500 of scholarships annually to juniors. The remainder of the proceeds helps fund the juniors’ annual
operating budget. “Ken was one of those people you wanted on your side. His love for young people in agriculture and the future of the Limousin breed did not go unnoticed. We are forever grateful for his time and contributions to the junior program,” stated Shelby Hubbard, NALJA president. As we move forward, the $17,500 of annual scholarships awarded at the National Junior Limousin Show & Congress out of the Genetics on Ice allotment will be named the Ken Holloway Memorial Scholarship Awards. The Genetics on Ice benefit auction will be renamed the Ken Holloway Genetics on Ice Benefit Auction. Ken Holloway will never be forgotten, and his legacy will continue to live on as we continue to develop leaders in the Limousin breed and the cattle industry. 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.
A m e r i ca n A s s o c i a t i o n o f Vete r i n a r y M e d i ca l C o l l e g e s
NEWS
AAVMC Partners with HOSA to Promote Veterinary Medical Careers via Veterinary Science Competitive Event. The Association of Veterinary Medical Colleges (AAVMC) partnered with Future Health ProfessionalsHOSA to sponsor a veterinary science competition at HOSA’s 2022 International Leadership Conference on June 22-25 in Nashville, Tennessee. HOSA is a global, student led organization that promotes health industry career opportunities. The event is part of a year long sponsorship that is designed to generate maximum visibility for the veterinary medical profession and provide young people interested in veterinary science with role models, mentors, and the most up to date materials available to help them make informed career choices. The Veterinary Science Competitive Event showcased outstanding veterinary
science competitors from HOSA chartered associations and local chapters, enabling members to learn more about veterinary medical care and what knowledge and skills are required for the diagnosis and treatment of animals. “The sponsorship between AAVMC and HOSA provides a ‘win-win’ for both organizations,” said HOSA Executive Director Jim Koeninger. “It provides young people interested in veterinary science with the best role models and mentors possible, combined with the AAVMC’s pipeline of young people who are involved in making career choices.” AAVMC Receives $1.3M Grant from The Stanton Foundation for the Development of Spectrum of Care Initiative. The American Association of Veterinary Medical Colleges (AAVMC) is pleased to announce a $1.3 million grant awarded by the Stanton Foundation to support the AAVMC Spectrum of Care
(SOC) initiative. The Spectrum of Care initiative aims to address the growing challenge of affordability of veterinary care by providing a continuum of care options that are rooted in evidence based medicine and responsive to client circumstances. The purpose of the AAVMC SOC initiative is to provide the infrastructure and support for a unified and collaborative approach across veterinary colleges that brings SOC pedagogy to veterinary education. The Stanton Foundation has supported the AAVMC SOC since the initiative’s inception in 2021. This new grant will support work over the next two years to develop an educational model including the competency outcomes, assessment strategies, and learning experiences that will prepare graduates to practice with competence and confidence across the spectrum of care. “We are grateful for the ongoing support from the Stanton Foundation and believe that this gift will have a profound impact on veterinary education. This funding will be instrumental in helping us develop curriculum and establish different educational models,” says Dr. Andrew T. Maccabe, CEO of AAVMC. “This funding will help us establish
an evidence based pedagogical approach to better prepare graduates for practice, meet the needs of a diverse clientele, and provide high quality care to more patients. We believe the result of this work will be transformational to the profession and help address the growing challenge of affordability of veterinary care,” says Dr. Julie Noyes, Executive Director of the AAVMC Spectrum of Care initiative. About the American Association of Veterinary Medical Colleges. The member institutions of AAVMC promote and protect the health and well being of people, animals, and the environment by advancing the profession of veterinary medicine and preparing new generations of veterinarians to meet the evolving needs of a changing world. Founded in 1966, the AAVMC represents more than 40,000 faculty, staff, and students across the global academic veterinary medical community. Our member institutions include Council on Education (COE) accredited veterinary medical colleges and schools in the United States, Canada, Mexico, the United Kingdom, Europe, Asia, Australia, and New Zealand, as well as departments of veterinary science and departments of comparative medicine in the United States.
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Prices FOB Wytheville, Virginia • Delivery Available The Carolina Cattle Connection
q JULY 2022
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NCBA News
NCBA Commends Signing of U.S.-Japan Beef Export Agreement. Recently, the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association praised the signing of an agreement between the U.S. and Japan to increase the Beef Safeguard Trigger level under the U.S.-Japan Trade Agreement. “The agreement signed today underscores the importance of the mutually beneficial relationship between U.S. cattle producers and Japanese consumers, and we are hopeful that the improved safeguard will provide greater certainty for all segments of the supply chain. NCBA thanks Ambassador Tai for her continued efforts to reduce trade barriers and expand export opportunities for American cattle producers,” said NCBA Senior Director of International Trade and Market Access Kent Bacus. In March 2021, Japan and the U.S. entered negotiations after record setting beef exports triggered the safeguard provision of the U.S.-Japan Trade Agreement. Today’s increase in the Beef Safeguard Trigger level will allow American producers to continue exporting high quality beef to meet Japanese consumer demand. Japan is a top export market for U.S. beef, accounting for over $2.3 billion in sales in 2021. Cattle Producers Share WOTUS Perspective at EPA Roundtable. Recently, cattle producers voiced their concerns with the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) and Army Corps of Engineers’ ongoing Waters of the U.S. (WOTUS) rulemaking attempt at a roundtable organized by the Kansas Livestock Association (KLA). “Cattle producers are grateful for the opportunity to share their perspective on WOTUS and explain how rules crafted in Washington will impact the daily operations of farms and ranches across the country,” said NCBA Environmental Counsel MaryThomas Hart. “To be successful in their operations, cattle producers need a clear, limited WOTUS definition that finally provides much needed certainty after years of shifting rules.” This roundtable is one of ten accepted by the EPA and Army Corps. In July 2021, the EPA announced that rather than facilitate public engagement — the typical course of action for major rulemakings—the agency would
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instead ask private organizations to entirely plan and propose a roundtable with representatives from agriculture, conservation groups, developers, water and wastewater managers, industry, Tribal leadership, environmental justice groups, and state and local governments. KLA went through the arduous process of planning a roundtable to ensure that the voices of cattle producers were heard. In addition to the roundtables, NCBA has engaged on WOTUS by submitting technical comments on the Biden administration’s proposed phase one WOTUS rule and filing an amicus brief in the case Sackett v. EPA, a challenge to the EPA’s authority under the Clean Water Act. NCBA has called for the EPA to pause WOTUS rulemaking until the case is decided. A recording of the roundtable is available at www.youtube.com/watch? v=8mWDtqBOOI0. NCBA Congratulates Dr. Chavonda Jacobs-Young on Confirmation as USDA Under Secretary. Recently, NCBA Vice President for Government Affairs Ethan Lane released a statement on the confirmation of Dr. Chavonda Jacobs-Young as Under Secretary for Research, Education, and Economics at the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). “NCBA congratulates Dr. Chavonda Jacobs-Young on her confirmation as Under Secretary for Research, Education, and Economics. The Research, Education, and Economics arm of USDA provides data and analysis that is crucial to cattle producers around the country as they make business decisions, assess economic conditions, and monitor new scientific developments. We look forward to working closely with Dr. Jacobs-Young and her team.” NCBA Disappointed in House Passage of Special Investigator Bill. Recently, NCBA expressed strong disappointment in the House passage of the Lower Food and Fuel Costs Act, which incorporates the Meat and Poultry Special Investigator Act. “Rising food, fuel, and fertilizer prices are hurting cattle producers around the country, but Congress is relentlessly focused on political posturing through this special investigator bill,” said NCBA Vice President of Government Affairs Ethan Lane. “NCBA strongly
The Carolina Cattle Connection q JULY 2022
supports fairness and transparency in the market, but Congress is wasting time with legislative proposals in search of a problem while ignoring real issues impacting cattle producers.” The special investigator section of the Lower Food and Fuel Costs Act would create a new position at the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to investigate broad “anticompetitive” matters. Unfortunately, this position duplicates the work of numerous federal investigative agencies — including the USDA Packers and Stockyards Division, Department of Justice, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Federal Trade Commission, and Department of Homeland Security — who have existing authority, staff, and budget to investigate anticompetitive actions.
This bill is also unfunded, which will divert critical resources away from the Agricultural Marketing Service of USDA at the expense of critical programs producers rely on, like market data reporting, meat grading, and the Cattle Contract Library pilot program. This bill now goes to the Senate for consideration, and NCBA urges all senators to reject this proposal. Cattle Industry Fights Controversial SEC Climate Rule. Recently, NCBA filed comments on the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission’s (SEC) controversial proposed greenhouse gas disclosure rule. The rule would require publicly traded companies to disclose their direct (scope 1), energy/electricity consumption (scope 2), and supply chain emissions (scope 3),
N.C. Cattle Receipts, Trends, and Prices for the Month of MAY 2022 Cattle Receipts: 18,043
•
Previous Month: 20,224
Feeder supply - 30% steers • 42% heifers • 28% bulls SLAUGHTER CLASSES
Avg. Wt. Cows - % Lean Breaker 1,478 Boner 1,158 Lean 934
$78.40 $75.19 $67.83
$101.93
Bulls - Yield Grade 1-2
1,499
Price
FEEDER CLASSES
FEEDER STEERS (Medium and Large 1-2) Wt. Range Avg. Wt. CWT Avg. Price 400-450 425 $162.76 $691.73 450-500 474 $165.09 $782.53 500-550 527 $160.25 $844.52 550-600 572 $165.23 $945.12 600-650 619 $156.50 $968.74 650-700 674 $147.46 $993.88
FEEDER BULLS (Medium and Large 1-2) Wt. Range Avg. Wt. CWT Avg. Price 400-450 423 $162,74 $688.39 450-500 473 $156.28 $739.20 500-550 522 $153.07 $799.03 550-600 571 $148.68 $848.96 600-650 619 $139.99 $866.54 650-700 671 $130.58 $876.19
FEEDER HEIFERS (Medium and Large 1-2) Wt. Range Avg. Wt. CWT Avg. Price 400-450 423 $142.95 $604.68 450-500 472 $142.00 $670.24 500-550 521 $140.16 $730.23 550-600 571 $137.71 $786.32 600-650 620 $125.07 $775.43 650-700 673 $123.40 $830.48
Source: N.C. Dept. of Agriculture - USDA Market News Service, Raleigh, N.C. - 919-707-3156
creating a burden on cattle producers who supply beef to publicly traded processors, restaurants, and retailers. “With cattle producers facing record inflation, rising input costs and labor shortages, another bureaucratic rule from Washington is a burden we cannot afford,” said NCBA President Don Schiefelbein, a cattle producer from Kimball, Minnesota. “Policymakers should be focused on lowering costs and solving the real problems facing farmers and ranchers, not creating more complex rules that require a team of lawyers to understand.” While the proposed rule is aimed at public companies, mandating the disclosure of scope 3 emissions would place a burden on cattle producers who supply beef to public entities. Additionally, the federal government has acknowledged that accurately calculating emissions on the farm or ranch level is impossible, while industry wide metrics are already collected by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) at a level that should satisfy federal regulators. “Cattle farmers and ranchers are America’s original conservationists. Thanks to decades of innovation and continuous improvement, cattle account for just two percent of overall U.S. greenhouse gas emissions,” said NCBA Environmental Counsel Mary-Thomas Hart. “Cattle producers have a proven track record of sustainable practices and should not be penalized with overreaching rules from an agency with no expertise in agriculture.” In addition to submitting technical comments, individual cattle producers submitted over 6,700 letters to the commissioners of the SEC and members of Congress to inform them of the widespread unintended sequences this rule would have on the cattle and beef industry. NCBA’s technical comments were filed with a coalition of agricultural organizations, including the American Farm Bureau Federation, National Pork Producers Council, National Cotton Council, National Corn Growers Association, National Potato Council, American Soybean Association, Agricultural Retailers Association, National Association of Wheat Growers, U.S. Poultry & Egg Association. Numerous NCBA state and breed affiliates submitted comments as well. Background - The SEC is a Wall Street regulator, not an environmental or agricultural agency. This proposed rule goes far outside the SEC’s primary jurisdiction and places an unreasonable burden on private small businesses, farms, and ranches. NCBA has urged the SEC to limit the proposed rule to publicly
traded companies — the agency’s actual jurisdiction. For agriculture specifically, this rule would force private entities to release confidential information. Court decisions like American Farm Bureau Federation v. EPA have solidified the right to producer data privacy. Industry wide emissions data is already collected through the annual EPA Greenhouse Gas Inventory and USDA Life Cycle Assessments, which should satisfy any requirement for supply chain emissions data. NCBA Rejects Harmful Cattle Market Mandate Bills. Recently, NCBA once again voiced opposition to the Cattle Price Transparency Act of 2022 and the Meat and Poultry Special Investigator Act of 2022, which were marked up by the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry. “The U.S. cattle industry is home to one of the most complex sets of markets in the world. Rather than embrace the freedom of that marketing system, Congress is instituting a one-size-fitsall policy that will hurt cattle producers’ livelihoods. Cattle markets are finally returning to normal after pandemic fueled uncertainty, but these heavy handed mandates will stifle innovation and limit marketing opportunities,” said NCBA Vice President of Government Affairs Ethan Lane. “Cattlemen and women deserve the freedom to market their cattle in whatever way they want. The Cattle Price Transparency Act of 2022 would subject every cattle producer in the country to a business-altering government mandate. The bill would severely restrict the use of Alternative Marketing Arrangements (AMAs), which provide stability to producers and allow them to invest in creating higher quality and specialty products that command a premium. The bill also fails to consider the unique ways producers raise cattle in different regions of the country. Although the bill was introduced when cattle markets experienced uncertainty because of the COVID-19 pandemic, market conditions have improved on their own without heavy handed government intervention. This legislation would jeopardize that recovery. The Meat and Poultry Special Investigator Act of 2022 would create a new special investigator position at the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to investigate “competition matters.” Unfortunately, the legislation is duplicative and only creates additional bureaucracy for investigating anticompetitive behavior. “NCBA supports oversight of the market, but creating a duplicative, bureaucratic new special investigator role is the wrong approach. Congress should be focused
on the issues that are hurting producer profitability now — rising food, fuel, and feed prices,” said Lane. NCBA’s grassroots policy, which is voted on by individual cattle producers, opposes both bills. 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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Cattlemen’s Beef Board Update Brian Warren Appointed to Cattlemen’s Beef Board. Brian Warren of Newton Grove, N.C., has been appointed to the Cattlemen’s Beef Promotion & Research Board (CBB). The CBB is responsible for guiding the national Beef Checkoff Program. Warren owns and operates Warren Farming, a diversified, fourth generation family farm, in partnership with his father, uncle, and cousins. Warren Farming spans three counties in North Carolina and produces crops, cattle, and swine on approximately 8,000 acres. Crops include tobacco, sweet potatoes, corn, cotton, soybeans, wheat, and hay. Warren leads his farming operations’ compliance for Global Gap Certification for the exporting of sweet potatoes. He also contributes to the management of operations for commercial real estate properties with his family. “I’m most looking forward to learning
from other people who’ve been successful in our industry,” Warren said. “It’s great to have the opportunity to engage with a diverse team and learn new perspectives to approaching similar challenges in different parts of the country. I want to combine my experience with that of fellow CBB members to help find new and innovative ways to promote beef and the cattle industry, not only here, but abroad.” Warren is a graduate of N.C. State University, where he completed a bachelor’s degree in communications. His interest in giving back to the industry has led him to serve as an invited panelist at the 2017 National Junior Angus Association Meeting, and he has had continued engagement with the N.C. Cattlemen’s Association in various leadership roles. Warren was a 2017 participant in the Young Cattlemen’s Conference and completed the N.C. State University Executive Farm
Management program the same year. In 2010 he completed the North Carolina Tobacco Trust Fund Commission Agricultural Leadership Program, where he had opportunities to explore farming operations in Brazil, as well as California and other parts of the United States. “We’re very pleased to have Brian as a member of the Cattlemen’s Beef Board,” said Norman Voyles, Jr., 2022 CBB chair. “He’s a person who always stays abreast of current trends, and he believes in active participation and constant improvement. We’re looking forward to learning from Brian as we continue driving beef demand.” The CBB consists of 101 members, including domestic beef, dairy, and veal producers, as well as importers of beef and beef products. Producer representation on the Board is based on cattle inventory in each state, while importer representation is based on a conversion of the volume of imports into live animal equivalencies. Each Beef Board member is appointed by the Secretary of Agriculture from nominations submitted by certified nominating organizations that represent beef and dairy producers in each state or region. Importer appointments are chosen from nominations by importer associations. For more information about the
Cattlemen’s Beef Board, the Beef Checkoff, and its programs – promotion, research, foreign marketing, industry information, consumer information, and safety – visit DrivingDemandforBeef.com. 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 may retain up to 50¢ on the dollar and forward the other 50¢ per head to the Cattlemen’s Beef Promotion and Research Board, which administers the national checkoff program, subject to USDA approval.
Clemson Extension Edisto Bull Test 140 Day Report By STEVEN E. MEADOWS, Ph.D., Clemson University The 74 bulls on test at the Edisto REC forage bull test station were weighed on May 10 for their 140 day weigh period. The bulls performed well this past 28 days. The top gaining bull for the period was the Lot 71 bull consigned by Brendy Hill Farm of Ninety-Six, South Carolina. This rascal mashed the scales at 1,310 pounds. The January 2021 calf posted an ADG of 5.79 lbs/day for the period. Following close behind was Lot 57, an Angus bull consigned by Rose Myrtle Farm of Bishopville, South Carolina. This Angus hoss weighed 1,374 and gained 5.43 lbs/day. He is sired by the ever popular Byergo Black Magic 3348. Mull Meadow of Pendleton, S.C., had two bulls that tied for third overall ADG for this period. The Lot 36 Angus bull, a son of Yon Future Focus C423, and the Lot 40 Angus bull, a son of Mull Meadows Phenom 6338, gained 5.18 lbs/day. Like all cattlemen in the state, we are in desperate need of rain for our summer forages. Summer grazing has been planted for the sale eligible bulls. The bull sale will be on October 8 at the Edisto Research and Education Center sale facility. The final weigh period for the test was the 168 day weight, done on June 6-7. Bulls that meet minimum performance ratios and pass the independent screening committee, as well as a BSE, will be offered. Bulls were screened on June 14. For more information, please view the Clemson University Bull Test Program online at www.clemson.edu/extension/bulltest/edisto/index.html.
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NEWS The Alltech ONE Conference returns in person and virtually, featuring a variety of agri-food experts and inspiring keynote speakers. The Alltech ONE Conference (ONE) opened to a live audience in Lexington, Ken., after being held as a virtual only event for two years. Alltech’s flagship event continues to be an invaluable industry resource, providing innovative ideas, inspiration, and motivation through world class speakers and unmatched content. ONE welcomed nearly 2,000 international delegates to downtown Lexington, with an additional 5,000 participating virtually. The ONE Main stage session began with Dr. Mark Lyons, president, and CEO of Alltech, who welcomed the inperson delegates to Lexington and virtual attendees tuning in from around the world, challenging them to think about what comes next as we look toward the future. “It’s been almost 1,100 days since we were last together and certainly, we know a tremendous amount has changed — from social turmoil to a global pandemic and beyond,” Lyons said. “What is this all telling us? What can we step back and think about in terms of how we progress forward?” Lyons was joined on the ONE main stage by Heather White, author, founder, and CEO of “OneGreenThing,” who brought two decades of environmental advocacy work and national nonprofit leadership to life with her book, “One Green Thing: Discover Your Hidden Power to Help Save the Planet.” White offered three steps to make climate action a joyful daily practice. First, think beyond your age and listen. Secondly, find your unique role, and third, apply the daily practice of sustainability. Following White’s presentation, Lyons spoke about agriculture’s role in saving the planet. “Reducing is not enough; we must do something different,” said Lyons. “Our belief is that agriculture has the greatest potential to positively influence the future of our planet, to provide nutrition for all, and to help rural communities thrive and replenish our planet’s resources.” The keynote lineup also included Nikki Putnam Badding, registered dietitian nutritionist and managing director of Acutia. Putnam Badding spoke about the crucial importance of making nutrition accessible to all.
“The impact of malnutrition is far reaching,” said Putnam Badding. “So, is it enough to just feed the world? Do we instead need to focus on providing nutrition for all, thereby changing the dialogue from food security to nutrition security?” Dr. Vaughn Holder, Alltech ruminant research group director, then shared his insights on how animal agriculture can be part of the solution to improving sustainability. “We sit at the interface between the main carbon capturing industry in the world and the main food production industry in the world,” said Holder. “Those things are tied closely together and unavoidable. We sit in a unique position to be doing something about the carbon argument. It really is important that we do not talk about compromising one for the other — because we have to do both.” During the opening session, Lyons presented the Alltech Medal of Excellence Award to Dr. Karl Dawson for his advancement of animal science over a career spanning more than five decades. The award further recognizes Dawson’s contributions as an educator, innovator, mentor, scientist, and technologist. Dawson became the 31st recipient of the Alltech Medal of Excellence Award and, having previously received the honor in 1992, also became the first two time recipient. In addition to hearing from the inspiring keynote speakers, ONE attendees participated in live workshops and focus tracks, uncovering the challenges and opportunities in agriculture, business, health and wellness, and professional development. 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 alltech.com.
Duckett Receives 2022 Godley-Snell Award for Excellence For her work in science productivity and focusing on problems impacting animal and human health and productivity, Clemson University professor Susan Duckett has received the 2022 GodleySnell Award for Excellence in Agricultural Research. This award is Clemson’s highest agricultural research award. Duckett, who works in the animal and veterinary sciences (AVS) department in the College of Agriculture, Forestry and Life Science, focuses her research on understanding how toxins found in tall fescue negatively impact the growth and development of lambs during and after pregnancy, cow/calf performance and beef cattle production. Fescue toxicosis costs the beef, small ruminant, and equine industries more than $1 billion dollars in annual losses. She also is the Ernest L. Corley Jr. Trustees Endowed Chair in the AVS department. Duckett is sought after as a graduate advisor, undergraduate mentor, and instructor. Her courses, which are elective, routinely draw 60-80 students. Fellow professor, James Strickland, said the impact she has had on the field of animal and veterinary sciences has resulted in improvements in efficiency of production and value of products in animal agriculture. “Dr. Duckett also has directly benefited stakeholders via her direct engagement with stakeholder groups both domestically and internationally through numerous invited presentations on the application of her research findings,” Strickland said. “Her scientific work has gained the trust of a wide swath of the public worldwide and advanced agricultural efficiency for the betterment of society and our environment.” Duckett has served as major professor for 13 master’s and doctoral students. Many of these students have gone on to leadership roles as research scientists in national organizations, as scientists and directors in major companies, veterinarians, and college and
Cooperative Extension Service educators. She is the advisor for the Clemson Animal and Veterinary Sciences Graduate Student Club and also has been an advisor for the Society for the Advancement of Chicanos/Hispanics and Native Americans in Science. She is a member of numerous scientific societies, including the American Association for the Advancement of Science, the American Society of Animal Science, and the American Society of Nutrition. Duckett also has served on the editorial boards of three different refereed journals, has served as an ad hoc reviewer for 13 different refereed journals, and has been the associate editor for the Journal of Animal Science. The Godley-Snell Award is named in honor of W. Cecil Godley, former director of the S.C. Agricultural Experiment Station, and Absalom W. Snell, former associate director. This is the largest annual agricultural research award given at the university and is allocated from the earnings of a fund that was first established upon Godley’s retirement in 1986. The award increased in 1988 when Snell retired. The purpose of the fund is to stimulate excellence in agricultural research by making a personal award to faculty members involved in research through the experiment station.
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NEWS Staying connected to what counts is easy with John Deere 5 Series Utility Tractors. John Deere announces updates to its 5 Series Utility Tractors, which include more options to make it easier for rural property owners, farmers, ranchers, and fleet owners to match the right tractor to the many jobs they need that tractor to do day after day. “Across the entire 5 Series lineup, customers now have more choices to find a tractor that meets their needs and budget and to customize configurations to match the jobs they need to finish. If this is their first tractor, routine service and maintenance notifications provide customers with added confidence while being connected to their tractor via the TractorPlus™ App,” says Greg Christensen, marketing manager for John Deere. For model year 2023, the three cylinder versions of the 5E Series offer a new Premium Cab option, an engine that does not require an emission related regen, larger tire options, an option for a true third function mid-valve for easier loader and grapple operation, and three new model numbers. Four models are offered in the 5E three cylinder lineup. This includes the 5050E, available with an open operator station, and the 5060E, 5067E, and 5075E, available in an open operator station, standard cab, or premium cab. The Premium Cab features a redesigned right hand console for easy operation and includes electronic, quick raise/lower buttons that allow a single button push to raise or lower implements
to preset depths. More operator comfort is provided with an adjustable air ride seat, factory installed instructor seat, Bluetooth radio, USB port, and cab microphone for hands free operation of mobile devices. “These easy-to-use tractors are perfect for rural property owners who need to move soil, rocks, logs, or snow, and have plenty of power for part time farmers and ranchers who need to make hay, move bales, and feed cattle,” Christensen said. “Now, with additional choices for comfort and convenience, work efficiency improvements, and eliminating the need for the engine regen process, the 5E helps get work done quickly and lets customers get back to focusing on what matters most to them.” John Deere is also making updates to the 5M Series Tractors. “We redefined what customers can expect from a utility tractor by adding integrated AutoTrac™ and more transmission options to the 5M in model year 2022,” Christensen said. “For model year 2023, we’ve taken those expectations to the next level by adding more horsepower and versatility.” The engine from the larger 6M Utility Tractor will now be used in the four cylinder versions of the 5M and will bring five additional horsepower, with new model options, the 5095M, 5105M, 5120M, and 5130M. The 5075M remains in the lineup for a three cylinder, 74-horsepower option, available with either a cab or open station. High crop and low profile models will also receive a horsepower boost and include the 5105MH, 5105ML, 5120ML, and 5130ML.
Versatility of the 5M is enhanced with an available bar axle option, giving customers the flexibility to adjust tire spacing up to 90 inches, allowing for less crop damage when baling wide windrows, and more stability when mowing on hillsides. Tire spacing also can be narrowed to match row spacing in row crop applications. The bar axle also opens the option for adding duals for increased stability, less ground pressure, and easier operation across rough terrain. Three transmission options are available on the 5M Series. The field proven PowrReverser™ transmission provides an easy to use, two lever option to change ranges and gears and is available on the 75-120 horsepower models. The PowrQuad™ PLUS and Powr8™ transmissions, available for the 95-130 horsepower models, offer an easy operator experience and include a single shift lever that puts shifting range and
speed at the operator’s fingertips without the need to use a foot clutch. All 5M transmissions continue to have a left hand reverser for effortless changes in direction during a variety of applications. Customer launch was June 7, with start of production in November 2022. About John Deere. Deere & Company is a global leader in the delivery of agricultural, construction, and forestry equipment. We help our customers push the boundaries of what’s possible in ways that are more productive and sustainable to help life leap forward. Our technology enabled products, including the John Deere Autonomous 8R Tractor, See & Spray™, and E-Power Backhoe, are just some of the ways we help meet the world’s increasing need for food, shelter, and infrastructure. Deere & Company also provides financial services through John Deere Financial. For more information, visit www.JohnDeere.com.
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
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NEWS Nutrition Company Gives Back to its Customers. Working in agriculture is a natural gamble. Producers take a chance every day with the markets, weather, breeding, and feeding decisions. Since we know that livestock producers are natural risk takers, BioZyme Inc., makers of Vita Ferm and Gain Smart nutrition products, want to reward that risk this summer with a Lucky 7 Promotion. This promotion is one way to show livestock producers that we understand the challenges they are facing during these unprecedented times, and we care. For each of the seven weeks this summer, 77 winning tokens will randomly be placed into bags of product manufactured in the plant located in Saint Joseph, Missouri. The “lucky” winners will receive prizes that range from caps to gift cards to $777 cash. Seven weeks x 77 tokens each week means 539 prizes. “Our company motto is ‘care that comes full circle,’ and this is 100 percent the reason we are doing this for our
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customers,” said Lisa Norton, BioZyme President and COO. “It’s a way to give back to producers who are feeling the effects of market volatility and supply chain instability.” Since June 1, the seven products below have a special “Lucky 7” sticker on the outside of the bag. These specially marked bags may contain a winning token: 1. VitaFerm Concept•Aid 5/S HEAT 2. VitaFerm HEAT 3. VitaFerm Conserve Garlic 4. Gain Smart Stocker HEAT 5. VitaFerm Concept•Aid 5/S with ClariFly 6. VitaFerm HEAT CTC 3G 7. VitaFerm Concept•Aid 5/S HEAT with ClariFly The tokens are biodegradable and will not hurt the livestock if ingested or the environment if not found when pouring out the mineral. Winning tokens must be claimed via the Lucky 7 website at biozymeinc.com/
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lucky7 to receive a prize. Each winning token depicts the specific prize won and the corresponding prize number. All prizes must be redeemed by December 30. “My late husband Bob always loved to give back. As we continue to give back, we honor Bob, honor the company he loved, and the customers he cared so much for,” Norton said. Bob Norton, CEO, unexpectedly passed away in April. For a full list of rules and eligibility for the BioZyme Lucky 7 promotion, visit biozymeinc.com/lucky7. Ellie Sennett Joins BioZyme Marketing Team. BioZyme Inc. is pleased to announce that Ellie Sennett, life long agricultural enthusiast, has joined its team as the Marketing Brand Manager – Vita Charge. In this role, Sennett will work to promote and educate all livestock producers about one of the most versatile product lines BioZyme offers – Vita Charge. “In this new brand manager role, I am excited to help producers see what Vita Charge can do for them and their operation. Vita Charge is such a versatile product from the show barn to the feedlot to the swine nursery; I just want all livestock owners to see how it can be
applied in production,” Sennett said. Sennett is familiar with the BioZyme products, having used both Vita Charge and Sure Champ, growing up on her family’s cow/calf and grain operation near Waynetown, Indiana, where she currently resides. Her family also owns and operates a feedlot. She is a recent graduate of South Dakota State University, where she received her bachelor’s degree in agriculture science and animal science and was a member of the reserve national champion livestock judging team. At SDSU, she also served as show chair of the Jackrabbit Memorial Show. She also attended Lakeland College, where she was named an All American Livestock Judge. “Ellie joining the team as the brand manager for Vita Charge could not have come at a better time. With our new focus in the animal health area, having someone focus on Vita Charge specifically is going to really help boost those sales. Ellie will work closely with the other brand managers who promote Vita Charge as well as Rod Hutcheson on the animal health side to make sure our messaging is cohesive and timely to really show what the Vita Charge line can do. We are so excited to have her on the team,”
said Macall Compton, BioZyme Senior Manager of Marketing Operations. As part of the Marketing Team, Sennett will use her knowledge in the livestock industry and her interpersonal skills to develop materials to promote the Vita Charge line. She will collaborate with others to share its benefits across all species as a product that helps livestock in times of stress and recovery. Sennett said her hobbies include helping her dad around the farm, helping her younger sister with her projects, and anything that involves livestock. How the Amaferm Advantage can help Stretch your Forage Resources. Between the widespread drought, increased need for hay resources, and
lack of pastures, cattle producers across the country are looking for ways to cut their input costs. During a time when they should be turning cows out to pasture, those pastures aren’t as nutrient dense as normal, and hay is at a premium, making the prices more challenging to pay right now. There might not be a guaranteed solution for cattle producers looking to save money and get the most from their forages this summer. However, with the assistance of a high quality mineral powered by the prebiotic Amaferm, producers are able to stretch their forages and get more nutrients from what they are feeding. “Every operation is different, and
S.C. Cattle Receipts, Trends, and Prices for the Month of MAY 2022 Cattle Receipts: 11,413
•
Previous Month: 9,407
Feeder supply - 35% steers • 42% heifers • 23% bulls SLAUGHTER CLASSES
Avg. Wt. Cows - % Lean Breaker 1,478 Boner 1,236 Lean 981
$81.75 $80.68 $74.77
$104.46
Bulls - Yield Grade 1-2
1,572
Price
FEEDER CLASSES
FEEDER STEERS (Medium and Large 1-2) Wt. Range Avg. Wt. CWT Avg. Price 400-450 421 $173.79 $731.66 450-500 474 $169.26 $802.29 500-550 529 $165.43 $875.12 550-600 574 $162.00 $929.88 600-650 629 $157.58 $991.18 650-700 657 $150.81 $990.82
FEEDER BULLS (Medium and Large 1-2) Wt. Range Avg. Wt. CWT Avg. Price 400-450 425 $150.86 $641.16 450-500 475 $150.76 $716.11 500-550 519 $146.60 $760.85 550-600 575 $141.40 $813.05 600-650 620 $132.46 $821.25 650-700 670 $127.95 $857.27
FEEDER HEIFERS (Medium and Large 1-2) Wt. Range Avg. Wt. CWT Avg. Price 400-450 424 $145.94 $618.79 450-500 472 $144.75 $683.22 500-550 520 $143.12 $744.22 550-600 569 $139.84 $795.69 600-650 614 $131.66 $808.39 650-700 675 $128.28 $865.89
Source: S.C. Dept. of Agriculture - USDA Market News Service, Columbia, S.C. - 803-737-4491
every management scenario is unique, so there isn’t a one size fits all solution. However, Amaferm can reduce the cost of digestible nutrients in hay by 18 percent when hay is $180 per ton. The higher hay costs get, the greater the savings that Amaferm creates,” said Chris Cassady, Ph.D., BioZyme Inc. Technical Sales Field Manager. Cassady offers multiple options for those looking to stretch their resources this summer. First, if running cows strictly on grass, supplement them with a mineral to ensure they are getting the nutrients they need. Also, consider where they are in their reproductive cycle. Late gestation and early lactation are when a cow’s vitamin and mineral requirements are at their highest as they are impacted by fetal growth, milk production, and breeding. Therefore, most herds don’t require excessive nutrients in the summer unless they calve in late spring through early fall. Think about the types of grasses you are grazing your herd on. Remember, different grasses on different soil types have varying nutrient contents. If you are already feeding hay, make sure you have it tested to know its nutrient content. Hay testing is actually a free service that BioZyme offers its customers to help them determine the nutritional components they are missing in their herds’ diets. Once the hay analysis is received, the BioZyme nutritionists will recommend the vitamins and minerals needed to balance your cattle’s diets. Even if you aren’t ready to start feeding hay, it is always a good idea to have it tested. This helps you know the best way to supplement your herd with grain or a complete mineral program. Learn more about the BioZyme Hay Testing Service. If you know where your cow’s nutritional needs are, then you can match the proper hay quality with their nutritional needs. For example, dry cows in the late summer in mid-gestation probably don’t require a high quality first cutting and can get by with something cheaper. The same could apply to the fall calving herds at the current time point where they are dry and/or midgestation. Another alternative that Cassady proposes is limiting the access to hay instead of offering free choice hay. The benefits of limiting access include less waste, more efficient utilization of forage, and overall higher gain conversion. Studies suggest that cows will eat all they want and need in six hours per day. “Restricitng access helps control waste from anywhere between 25-50 percent, which is a big expense of a valuable resource right now. Using a bale feeder that is only open to your cow
4-6 hours a day or actually feeding hay in a bunk line daily should prove to be a financial savings in wasted product,” Cassady said. Regardless of which method your operation chooses, you will want to supplement your herd with a mineral from VitaFerm powered by Amaferm. Amaferm is a prebiotic designed to enhance digestibility by amplifying the nutrient supply for maximum performance. It is research proven to increase intake, digestion, and absorption. Its unique ability to stimulate more than one component of the microbiome makes it so effective. The benefit of 16 percent more fiber digestion and subsequent VFA production helps cows unlock more energy from within. Couple this with the synergistic benefit on the rumen bacterial population and a greater amount of microbial protein can be synthesized and utilized by the cow. This form of protein comes with tremendous availability and a more balanced amino acid profile than any supplemented protein source. “Our research shows that Amaferm’s mode of action can unlock the equivalent energy and protein of approximately one pound of corn and one pound of a protein source, respectively. With current corn and soybean prices, a 4¢ investment in Amaferm is worth 43¢ in supplemented energy and protein (10:1 ROI),” Cassady said. Regardless of your management scenario, your forage availability, or your herd’s reproductive phase, the benefits of Amaferm, found in the VitaFerm line of minerals, will help you stretch your forage dollars. That’s some good news for producers everywhere this summer. To learn which VitaFerm mineral is right for you, visit Mineral Navigator at vitaferm.com/choose-yourconcept%E2%80%A2aid. 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, Mo., 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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Carolina Cooking Ancho Chile Spiced Street Tacos with Pineapple Salsa & Jalapeño Crema Total Time - 1 hour 1 pound beef top sirloin steak (¼ inch dice) 2 Tbsp olive oil 2 tsp ancho chile powder ½ tsp kosher salt 1 tsp granulated garlic 8 4” corn tortillas Jalapeño Crema 1 fresh California avocado, peeled and pitted 2 Tbsp fresh lime juice 3 Tbsp sour cream 2 jalapeno peppers, seeded and chopped Pineapple Salsa 6 fresh pineapple rings, grilled and chopped 3 tsp fresh lime juice 1/4 cup red onion, diced ½ cup diced tomatoes 3 tsp fresh cilantro, chopped ½ tsp kosher salt Garnish Crumbled Cotija cheese, fresh cilantro, diced onion Cut beef steak lengthwise in half, then crosswise into ¼ inch cubes. Cook’s Tip: Freeze your sirloin steak for up to 30 minutes to help aid in the cutting. In a medium size bowl, combine beef, ancho Chile powder, salt, garlic, and olive oil. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. In batches, add in ½ of the beef mixture and cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally. Repeat until all the beef is cooked, remove from heat and set
aside. Jalapeño Crema - Place avocado, lime juice, sour cream, salt, and jalapeño peppers in the bowl of a food processor; pulse until smooth. Pineapple Salsa - In a medium size bowl, combine pineapple, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, salt, and tomatoes. Cover and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes. Build - Grill tortillas for 1-2 minutes on each side. Top off each tortilla with beef, then pineapple salsa, and top with jalapeño crema and additional garnish as desired. Makes 4 servings.
Ancho Chile Spiced Street Tacos
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14 Annual America’s Farmers Market Celebration Kicks Off With $10,000 in Prizes th
American Farmland Trust (AFT) and the Farmers Market Coalition (FMC) kicked off the 14 th Annual America’s Farmers Market Celebration (AFMC) recently — the only annual ranking of the top farmers markets in the United States as voted on by the public. Since 2008, AFMC has highlighted the important role farmers markets play in communities across the nation while celebrating the farmers, staff, and volunteers that make markets possible. While they’ve long served as pillars of local food in urban centers and town squares, in recent years, farmers markets have gained the national recognition they deserve as essential businesses that power farmers and communities to thrive. The 14th Annual AFMC runs between June 20 and September 19 on markets. farmland.org. The summer long event is a fun competition that helps farmers markets across the country earn national recognition and local prestige. Markets can join the celebration and encourage their customers to vote, an excellent marketing tool and a pathway to winning a piece of the $10,000 prize pool. In 2022, AFT has increased the total cash prizes to $10,000 and expanded the awards to cover the top five markets nationally (compared to the top three in past years). The breakdown of prize money is as follows: $5,000 for first, $2,500 for second, $1,500 for third, $750 for fourth, and $250 for fifth. In addition to the prize money, the top markets also receive national and local press coverage, complimentary American Farmland Trust and Farmers Market Coalition memberships, I Love My Farmers Market stickers, No Farms No Food gear, a free one year subscription to Farmers Market Metrics, and other surprises! The AFMC also identifies the top markets in each state as well as in the Northeast, Southeast, Midwest, Southwest, and Pacific regions. “We believe that every farmers market in America is special in its own way. Big or small, in cities or rural towns, farmers markets nourish their communities while helping local farmers, food makers, and artisans thrive,” said Greg Plotkin, AFT Director of Digital Communications. “While the AFMC does rank America’s favorite markets, our intention is to lift up the vital role farmers markets play across the country.” “Farmers markets serve as the center of community connection, economic development and local food systems resilience in thousands of
communities across the country. But farmers markets do not just happen,” shares Hannah Fuller, Communications Manager at FMC. “At the center of these organizations are farmers market operators, the people behind the scenes who coordinate the market and serve as community change makers. The Farmers Market Coalition is thrilled to be back this year celebrating with American Farmland Trust and supporting this exciting celebration of farmers markets and elevating the important work of the people who make them happen.” “Columbia Farmers Market had the honor of being recognized as the #1 farmers market in the nation in 2021. The recognition elevated our market on a national level and contributed to 2021 being the best year our market has had in its 42 years of being open,” said Corrina Smith, Executive Director of Columbia Farmers Market in Columbia, Missouri. “This contest shows the importance of all of the work we are doing locally and that markets are doing across the country for farmers markets, farmers, artisans and farmers market staff/volunteers.” The AFMC database and interactive map on markets.farmland.org is one of the largest listings of farmers markets in the United States, containing more than 7,000 entries. Help us make sure our information is as current as possible. If you see a market listed that is no longer active, please email us at marketinfo@ farmland.org and ask us to remove it. About American Farmland Trust. AFT is the only national conservation organization dedicated to protecting farmland, promoting environmentally sound farming practices, and keeping farmers on the land. Since 1980, AFT’s innovative work has helped to permanently protect more than 6.8 million acres of farmland and ranchland and led the way for the adoption of conservation practices on millions more. No Farms, No Food. Learn more at www.farmland.org. About the Farmers Market Coalition. The FMC is a membership based non-profit with the mission to strengthen farmers markets for the benefit of farmers, consumers, and communities. Since 2006, FMC has been serving as the only national organization dedicated to supporting farmers market operators and has provided important resources, technical assistance, and advocacy to cultivate the growing farmers market field across the United States. Farmers markets are essential. Learn more at farmersmarketcoalition.org.
Consumers Feeling the Meat Price Sticker Shock Have Ways to Save Grocery and gas prices are on the rise, and sticker shocked consumers are looking for ways to cope and stick to their budgets. University of Kentucky College of Agriculture, Food, and Environment meat scientist Gregg Rentfrow and agricultural economist Kenny Burdine recently offered some insight into the situation and how to deal with it. “Spikes in fuel costs cause everything to go up,” Rentfrow said. “But also, we have to think about labor and higher production and transportation costs. The cost of corn and grain is high and what do we feed livestock? We feed them grain. So, there are many factors that go into the reason you’re seeing higher prices for meat at the grocery store.” The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Retail Report showed the beef retail price was up 15 percent from the same time last year. For specifics, access the report at www.ams.usda.gov/ mnreports/lswbfrtl.pdf. Rentfrow explained that animal supply is another complicating factor leading to the rise in price as the industry still hasn’t quite recovered from the
nationwide labor shortages during the COVID-19 pandemic. “It’s like a perfect storm of everything happening, and then you throw in the record high fuel prices we are all dealing with, and we have to find ways to cut corners and save some money,” Rentfrow said. “A lot of packers are holding supply in cold storage, and there’s a lot of speculation as to why they are doing that when we have the demand.” He said holding meat in cold storage is a way to hedge against summer demand. “We tend to have more of a demand for meat, especially the middle meats, because summer is grilling season, so retailers may be stockpiling stuff to release this summer and guard against having a big crash in prices.” Burdine said rising fuel prices and general inflation impacts consumer purchasing power, which affects meat consumption. “The more expensive meats tend to see the biggest impact in a situation like this,” he said. “Beef is typically more impacted than pork or chicken. In the past, I’ve also seen consumers trend
toward buying lower value cuts within a species, such as buying more ground beef, less steak.” Rentfrow said consumers don’t always have to choose lower value cuts when planning meals for the family on a budget or when dining out. “This is where I draw on my 14 years of working in grocery stores and retail meat cutters,” he said. “Buying in bulk does help save, but some people are intimidated by buying large quantities or large cuts. For example, buying a whole pork loin can save you some money, and what a lot of folks don’t know is that you can ask the meat cutter at the store to cut it down into smaller cuts and then, you can get several meals out of that one pork loin.” Rentfrow said even most club stores will cut the bulk packages into smaller ones for consumers. He said consumers can also break it down into smaller packages at home and use a home vacuum sealer to keep meat fresh longer in the freezer. Some of the larger steaks, like T-bones and sirloins, are actually big enough to feed more than one person.
“If I’m going out to dinner, I can get a porterhouse steak, which contains a filet mignon and a typical New York strip steak,” he said. “So, it can feed both of us and we’ve saved a little money in the process. You can do that at home as well. One other thing is that ribeye steaks are great, but don’t forget about the less expensive chuck eye steak.” Rentfrow also mentioned a few other tactics for saving at the grocery store, including taking advantage of coupons, utilizing store loyalty programs, and shopping alone with a shopping list. “The inflationary pressure being seen across most all segments of our economy is real,” Burdine said. “While there is potential for consumer demand to be negatively impacted by decreased purchasing power going forward, the supply picture is going to get even tighter. Dry weather in much of the country, combined with high input costs and strong cull cow values continue to lead to decreases in beef cow numbers. Tightening cattle supplies will mean reductions in beef production in the coming years.”
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
COUNTRY BOY FARMS David Miller 316 Key Road • Edgefield, SC 706-840-3709
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Rabo AgriFinance
NEWS
Beef Quarterly Q2 2022: Climate Neutral Beef Coming to a Store Near You. The first signs of softening consumer confidence are apparent in most markets, with wholesale prices for beef coming under pressure even though production costs are higher. A downward adjustment of cattle prices and upstream input costs will be needed to restore processor margins and maintain beef’s competitiveness with consumers. We expect ongoing adjustments in consumption and margins in all markets as we head into Q3 2022. Meanwhile, lockdowns in China and biosecurity risks in Indonesia pose notable implications for trade. Lockdowns of major Chinese cities are further constraining beef demand and restricting foodservice sales. As a result, Chinese beef imports dropped
in Q1, and we expect them to be down in Q2. Continuation of the lockdowns will impact China’s beef imports for 2022. In Indonesia, official reports of lumpy skin disease (early March) and foot-and-mouth disease (late April) have placed authorities in trading nations – particularly Australia and New Zealand – on high alert. As notifiable diseases, these highly infectious diseases not only have implications for cattle productivity, they also have trade implications for countries that become infected. Finally, with increased focus on carbon over the last two years, we have seen numerous companies, industries, and governments make commitments around the reduction of greenhouse gases. Most major meat processing companies around the world have a statement on the environment and a commitment to
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 PAGE 56
The Carolina Cattle Connection q JULY 2022
reduce emissions – and, in many cases, to reach net zero emissions – by a specified timeframe. We see the same for major food retail and foodservice companies. Until now, most commitments have not necessarily changed what consumers see. But that is all starting to change as the first movers release climate neutral products onto shelves. About Rabobank. From its cooperative and agricultural roots, Rabobank has grown to become the world’s leading financial services provider for the food & agribusiness sector. This role has been made possible in part by the bank’s extensive knowledge
of the many links in the food chain. This knowledge is generated, enhanced, and distributed by the RaboResearch Food & Agribusiness department. About RaboResearch Food & Agribusiness. RaboResearch Food & Agribusiness has 85 analysts working in local teams across the worldwide Rabobank network. They generate knowledge and develop views and insights on businesses, topics, and developments in the food & agribusiness sectors across the globe. All analysts have their own sector specializations — ranging from meat and fish to dairy, vegetables, fruit and floriculture, coffee, and cocoa.
New Beef Co-op Aims to Expand Processing, Create South Carolina Beef Product A group of South Carolina cattle farmers has formed a cooperative association with the goals of increasing beef processing capacity in South Carolina and jointly creating a South Carolina branded beef product. The S.C. Beef Marketing Cooperative was formed with the assistance of the S.C. Center for Cooperative and Enterprise Development, a collaborative effort between the S.C. Department of Agriculture, Clemson University Cooperative Extension, the S.C. State Small Business Development Center, and Matson Consulting. South Carolina’s meat processing facilities – all of which are small in scale – are unable to keep up with South Carolina beef producers’ processing needs. The COVID-19 pandemic further exposed those weaknesses, with local facilities experiencing long backlogs at the same time consumers were seeking more local meat. Steven Richards, director of the S.C. Center for Cooperative and Enterprise Development, completed a study last year suggesting that a $3 million investment in six existing facilities could expand instate processing capacity by 50 percent and create 50 new jobs. “Processing capacity continues to be the most critical bottleneck to expanding the local meat supply. The second most important issue is to expand market outlets for local meat: more retail buying points and more offerings in grocery stores and restaurants. This cooperative association aims to work on both issues simultaneously,” said Richards.
Creating a co-op gives the group a leg up in applying for grants, including the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Value Added Producer Grant for which they have already applied. If awarded the grant, they plan to commission a feasibility study on expanding small beef processing facilities around the state to improve capacity. One of the co-op’s eventual goals is to create a high quality, all South Carolina ground beef product modeled after Kentucky Cattlemen’s Ground Beef. “Expanding beef processing could also help preserve South Carolina’s family farms,” said Gwendolyn McPhail, treasurer of the co-op’s board and owner of Black Diamond Sheep and Cattle in Seneca, South Carolina. “We see a lot of open land in South Carolina that used to have cattle on it – but because there was not competitive pricing, because there was a processing backlog, a lot of smaller cattlemen have simply gone out of business,” McPhail said. “I believe people will see new hope now in raising cattle and join us.” Kyle Player, executive director of the Agribusiness Center for Research and Entrepreneurship at the S.C. Department of Agriculture, said the co-op is a promising model. “This endeavor is a great example of how we can work together to promote entrepreneurship among South Carolina agribusinesses to help boost our state’s rural areas,” Player said. The co-op is currently soliciting members from across South Carolina. Farmers who wish to join should contact McPhail at wagyu4you@gmail.com.
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.
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q JULY 2022
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NEWS
2022 Stakeholders Summit Highlights Report now available. 2023 Summit set for May 4-5 in Arlington, Virginia. The Animal Agriculture Alliance announced recently that a highlights report from the 2022 Stakeholders Summit is now accessible online. The 2022 event, themed “Come Together for Animal Ag: Be Informed, Be Ready, Be Here,” was held May 11-12 in Kansas City, Mo., and attracted a diverse audience of over 385 in-person and virtual attendees. The full highlights report is available at animalagalliance.org/resource/2022stakeholders-summit-highlights-report and provides quotes, and main takeaways from each session, including the five Pre-Summit webinars, held leading up to the in-person event. The dynamic lineup of speakers and sessions covered hot topics and emerging issues, including sustainable food systems and food equity, influencer engagement, farm and cybersecurity, and updates on legislation,
including California’s Proposition 12. Key quotes from speakers include: • “If we get it right, agriculture can, in fact, save the planet.” – Jack Bobo, CEO, Futurity on agriculture’s potential to help reach climate and planetary health goals • “Stop educating people. Just have conversations.” – Carrie Mess, Wisconsin dairy farmer known online as “Dairy Carrie,” discussing the goal of consumer engagement • “Not everyone has the privilege to push away nutrient dense food like animal sourced foods. Most people in the world would actually welcome more animal sourced food.” – Diana Rodgers, R.D., Executive Director, Global Food Justice Alliance, on the importance of meat, milk, poultry, and eggs in reducing food insecurity • “What we do matters, but more importantly, it’s how we do it that matters.” – Aaron Putze, Senior Director, Information & Education, Iowa Soybean Association, discussing “mindset relationship”
LIVESTOCK VIDEO AUCTION - Tuesdays at 10:00 a.m.
SOUTHEAST LIVESTOCK EXCHANGE Waynesville, NC
John Queen: 828-421-3446 SELEXvideo@gmail.com • www.selex-video.com PAGE 58
The Carolina Cattle Connection q JULY 2022
“The Animal Agriculture Alliance’s annual Stakeholders Summit is focused on providing actionable insights and tools to support the animal agriculture community and greater food supply chain in safeguarding its future and value to society,” said Hannah Thompson-Weeman, Alliance president and CEO. “If you weren’t able to come together with us, or if you want a refresher on what was discussed, our highlights report provides the main points and action items that you need to know.” Recordings and presentation materials from sessions are currently available to registered attendees within the Summit App, and select content will be posted publicly later this year. The 2023 Summit is set for May 4-5 at the Renaissance Capital View Hotel in Arlington, Virginia. Stay tuned to animalagalliance.org/initiatives/ stakeholders-summit. Sign up now open for the 2022 College Aggies Online scholarship competition, kicking off September 12. Collegiate clubs and students invited to build their resumes while competing for scholarships. The Animal Agriculture Alliance recently announced that its annual College Aggies Online (CAO) scholarship program will return this fall, kicking off on September 12. This nine week program brings together college students from across the country to help them become confident communicators for agriculture. Undergraduates, graduate students, and collegiate clubs and classes are invited to sign up now at animalagalliance.org/ initiatives/college-aggies-online. Throughout the competition, students will have the opportunity to network with social media savvy farmers and industry professionals while enhancing their communication skills. Previous mentors include Tara Vander Dussen, also known as New Mexico Milkmaid; Michelle Miller, known online as The Farm Babe; Brandi Buzzard of Buzzard’s Beat; and Emily Shaw, owner of Dairy Girl Fitness. Each week participants receive training from these communication experts about current and emerging issues in agriculture. In the individual division, students earn points by completing weekly challenges, including writing blog posts, designing infographics, creating social media content, and submitting letters to the editor. In the student organization division, collegiate clubs and classes will have the opportunity to host events on their campus to engage with peers about agriculture, along with virtual engagement options that provide flexibility in varying community and college health guidelines. Club events include hosting a campus event, food drive, farm tour, and much more.
“The College Aggies Online program equips college students with the tools needed to confidently and effectively share animal agriculture’s story with the general public,” said Emily Solis, Alliance manager, communications and content. “The hands-on skills gained during the competition provide a great experience for students to add to resumes when applying for future internships or job openings. Last year, 160 individuals and 19 collegiate clubs participated, representing 34 states and 56 universities. Students reached more than 4 million people online with their social media posts and around 5,200 people in-person via campus events. The Alliance awarded winners more than $20,000 in scholarships. Students interested in becoming confident and effective communicators for agriculture are invited to sign up today at animalagalliance.org/initiatives/ college-aggies-online. CAO would not be possible without the generous support of our sponsors. To become a sponsor of this year’s program, see our sponsorship opportunities and contact Casey Kinler, director, membership, and marketing, at ckinler@animalagalliance.org. About the Animal Agriculture Alliance. The Animal Agriculture Alliance safeguards the future of animal agriculture and its value to society by bridging the communication gap between the farm and food communities. We connect key food industry stakeholders to arm them with responses to emerging issues. We engage food chain influencers and promote consumer choice by helping them better understand modern animal agriculture. We protect by exposing those who threaten our nation’s food security with damaging misinformation.
N.C. Weekly Auctions Report (Week ending JUNE 9, 2022)
Feeder Cattle - Medium and Large 1-2 Kind Avg. Wt. $/lb Steers 300-400 $141.00 - 179.00 400-500 $140.00 - 180.00 500-600 $140.00 - 174.00 600-700 $138.00 - 175.00 700-800 $120.00 - 157.00 800-900 $114.00 - 135.00 Heifers
300-400 400-500 500-600 600-700 700-800 800-900
$124.00 - 164.00 $123.00 - 160.00 $120.00 - 153.00 $104.00 - 138.00 $100.00 - 111.00 $100.00 - 106.00
Slaughter Cows: (over 850 lbs) Breakers (70-80% lean) $70.00 - 89.00 Boners (80-85% lean) $70.00 - 86.00 High Dressing (70-85% lean) $81.00 - 110.00
Source: N.C. Dept. of Agriculture and Consumer Services - USDA Market News, Raleigh, N.C. • 919-707-3156
The Carolina Cattle Connection
q JULY 2022
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MERCK
Animal Health News Merck Animal Health Announces AROVYN™ Is Available. A new prescription antibiotic option for BRD, pinkeye, and foot rot. Merck Animal Health announces that AROVYN™ (tulathromycin injection) is now available to veterinarians prescribing tulathromycin, which is used to control and treat bovine respiratory disease (BRD), plus treat foot rot and pinkeye. The prescription antibiotic, recently approved by the FDA, is the latest addition to the comprehensive antimicrobial portfolio and BRD solutions from Merck Animal Health. “AROVYN offers veterinarians and producers a new, cost effective option for tulathromycin,” said David Sjeklocha, D.V.M., technical services manager, Merck Animal Health. “On-label to administer on arrival with high risk cattle, AROVYN also can be used to treat BRD, foot rot, and pinkeye – all of which are common and costly diseases.” In beef and non-lactating dairy cattle,
AROVYN is indicated for the treatment of BRD and control of respiratory disease in animals at high risk of developing BRD associated with Mannheimia haemolytica, Pasteurella multocida, Histophilus somni, and Mycoplasma bovis. It also is approved for the treatment of pinkeye or infectious bovine keratoconjunctivitis (IBK) associated with Moraxella bovis, plus treatment of foot rot associated with Fusobacterium necrophorum and Porphyromonas levii. In suckling calves, dairy calves, and veal calves, AROVYN is indicated for the treatment of BRD associated with M. haemolytica, P. multocida, H. somni, and M. bovis. “AROVYN is backed by Merck Animal Health’s technical service and sales team with extensive expertise in managing BRD, cattle health, and well being,” explained Dr. Sjeklocha. “In addition to AROVYN, Merck Animal Health has introduced several products
a
Virginia Herd Health Management Services, PC In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) & Embryo Transfer (ET) * On-farm aspiration of oocytes via Ultrasound Guided Ovum Pick-Up (OPU). * Embyos come back in 8 days for placement or direct thaw freezing on-farm. * Can do on donors aged 8 months and older, up to 120-150 days pregnant. Doesn’t interfere with pregnancy. * Pregnant cows work really well, so the cow doesn’t get out of her production group. * Can do a donor every 2 weeks.
* NOW AVAILABLE * Small Ruminant Laparoscopic Artificial Insemination (AI) & Embryo Transfer (ET) Oocytes fertilized at BoviteqUSA in Madison, Wisconsin. www.boviteq.com
For more information, contact:
PAT COMYN, DVM
P.O. Box 555 Madison, Va. 22727 540-829-3625 (cell) • 540-948-5238 (office/fax) pcomyn@verizon.net Visit us online at www.vhhms.com. PAGE 60
The Carolina Cattle Connection q JULY 2022
within the past two years to help producers manage BRD, including a firstof-its-kind intranasal vaccine BOVILIS NASALGEN 3-PMH and two innovative technologies, WHISPER ON ARRIVAL and SenseHub Feedlot to help identify and treat sick cattle sooner. AROVYN is approved for cattle and swine and comes in 50-, 100-, 250-, and 500-mL vials. It is manufactured in the same facility as other Merck Animal Health antimicrobials, such as ZUPREVO (tildipirosin), with the same high quality assurance guidelines. To learn more, contact your veterinarian or www. ArovynforBRD.com. About Merck Animal Health. For over 130 years, Merck, known as MSD outside the United States and Canada, has been inventing for life, bringing forward medicines and vaccines for many of the world’s most challenging diseases. Merck
Animal Health, a division of Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, N.J., is the global animal health business unit of Merck. Through its commitment to The Science of Healthier Animals, Merck Animal Health offers veterinarians, farmers, pet owners, and governments one of the widest ranges of veterinary pharmaceuticals, vaccines, and health management solutions and services, as well as an extensive suite of connected technology that includes identification, traceability, and monitoring products. Merck Animal Health is dedicated to preserving and improving the health, well being, and performance of animals and the people who care for them. It invests extensively in dynamic and comprehensive R&D resources and a modern, global supply chain. Merck Animal Health is present in more than 50 countries, while its products are available in some 150 markets. For more information, visit www.merck-animal-health.com.
NEWS
Vytelle Announces the 2022 Top 150 Proven Bulls. Together, with more than 30 of their network partners, Vytelle is sharing high accuracy bulls that have risen to the top of more than 94,000 animals of 25 different breeds and more than 289,000 RFI EPDs. “Cattle producers need to be able to replicate the right genetics now,” said Kerryann Kocher, Chief Executive Officer for Vytelle. “Through Vytelle’s integrated technology platform, the reality of making reliable data driven decisions is now. Vytelle and our network partners are publishing this list of feed efficient bulls to assist cattle producers globally in driving a more accurate mating selection decision.” Bulls appearing within the pages of the Top 150 Proven Bulls list must meet the following criteria: • A minimum of a three generation pedigree • Residual Feed Intake (RFI) EPD accuracy of 0.6 or higher • Animal or progeny were tested on a Vytelle SENSE system Vytelle curates the world’s largest multi-breed database. Each phenotyped animal strengthens the database providing producers insight to make profit bearing decisions regarding selection for feed efficiency and performance. “The selection possibilities for breeders across the globe are endless,” commented Lisa Rumsfeld, Vice President of International Commercial Operation for
Vytelle. “As part of a balanced program, selecting cattle for feed efficiency using residual feed intake can directly impact the bottom line as 70 percent of a beef producer’s total cost is feed. Our partners are enjoying a growing interest in their programs, identifying marketing premiums associated with feed efficiency, and methane emissions reduction claims.” Phenotypic data captured through the Vytelle SENSE system measures both individual animal feed intake and weight in parallel while cattle remain in their pens. The Feed Intake Nodes measure feed disappearance every second an animal is feeding, each time an animal feeds, to a 10 gram resolution. The In-Pen Weighing Positions measure individual animal partial body weight and growth. It weighs every second an animal is standing at the water trough, which can equate up to 450 weights a day. To find the full listing of the 2022 Top 150 Proven Bulls, visit vytelle.com/ breeding-values. About Vytelle. Vytelle is a precision livestock company reshaping how cattle producers worldwide optimize their herds. Through Vytelle’s integrated technology platform, generations of genetic gains can be made in just a few years. This allows producers to sustainably deliver more protein with fewer inputs, helping to ensure meat and milk are viable, competitive food choices for future generations.
Being a Good Neighbor from a Cattle Health Standpoint By BOB LARSON, DVM, Ph.D. Being a good neighbor (and having good neighbors) is an important consideration when planning your overall herd health strategy. The impact that neighboring cattle can have on the health of your herd depends on the level of contact, the specific disease in question, and the timing of contact between herds. Nearby herds that can impact your herd’s health can range from herds commingled with yours for grazing purposes to herds with fence line contact with your herd to herds with no direct contact with your cattle but within a distance that escaped cattle, wildlife, humans, and airflow and water flow could move disease causing agents between herds. For most disease risks, more frequent and long lasting exposure between herds carries greater risk than very occasional or short term contact. However, even short term contact between herds can lead to serious health problems if the exposure occurs during a time in pregnancy when either the dam or fetus is particularly vulnerable or at an animal age or time of year when a particular disease
Any news from your county? Be sure to share your meetings, sales, field days, etc., with your fellow cattlemen through the Connection!
causes the most problems. Viruses, bacteria, and other microorganisms can cause disease when the dose of disease causing agents overwhelms the ability of cattle to fight them. Cattle herds can fail to build good immunity to some diseases either because of certain characteristics of the germs themselves or because some disease causing germs are rarely found in herds, and herds are unlikely to build long term immunity against germs they don’t contact. In these situations, even a small exposure may lead to many cattle becoming sick, aborting their fetuses, or having other negative consequences; and contact between herds increases this risk. In contrast, some disease causing agents are so common in cattle populations that it is unlikely that any one herd is completely free of the organism – so contact between herds does not greatly increase the risk of many common diseases. The germs that cause trichomoniasis (Trich) and bovine viral diarrhea (BVD) are examples whereby most herds are susceptible to major disease problems if exposed to cattle that carry these germs. One of the common ways to expose a herd to these diseases is by contact with neighboring herds. Other diseases such as anaplasmosis are common in many parts of the country but rare in other parts – therefore, contact with neighboring herds can increase the risk for these diseases in some areas but not in other areas. And diseases such as bovine leukosis, neosporosis, and the agents that cause bovine respiratory disease and calf scours are so common that contact between herds would rarely increase the disease risk in herds that are already infected. It is important to work with your veterinarian to devise an appropriate plan to keep your herd from being exposed to cattle that carry Trich and BVD organisms. You should also work with your veterinarian to implement a strategy to limit the negative effects of bovine respiratory disease, calf scours, and other common diseases, even though you will not be able to eliminate or keep the germs associated with these diseases from your herd. A few diseases can be passed even after cattle have died; therefore, proper carcass disposal to prevent direct contact with other cattle, the spread of organisms by scavengers such as coyotes and birds, and contamination of water or soil that other animals may contact is necessary to be a good neighbor. Your veterinarian,
Extension agent, or local regulatory contacts can provide you with information about proper carcass disposal. Being a good neighbor also means that you control flies as well as toxic plants and weeds that can move from one cattle operation to another. In many situations, pest control can only be effective if all the agriculture operations in the area implement control measures; and all operations benefit from the efforts of others in the area. But even as pesticides and other chemicals intended for use on plants and animals can be important weapons to control disease and improve animal health, they also pose a toxic risk if they are not applied or disposed of properly. It is important that everyone using farm chemicals is properly trained on how
chemicals should be applied to animals, plants, and premises, and also how they should be stored so that animals are not accidentally exposed to concentrated, toxic doses, and how to safely dispose of any residues and the empty containers. In summary, being a good neighbor from an animal health perspective involves having good pasture management, animal husbandry, and animal health skills. Specifically, good neighbors use effective pest control, maintain good fences to limit unintended cross fence exposure, and work with a veterinarian to implement vaccination and biosecurity plans for diseases that can move from one herd to another to provide protection not only to your own herd but to decrease disease risk for other herds in the area.
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 PEST MANAGEMENT BRAHMAN HEREFORD GELBVIEH SIMMENTAL SANTA GERTRUDIS WAGYU -------------------------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 The Carolina Cattle Connection
q JULY 2022
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...
LASSIFIED PUREBRED C ATTLE BREEDERS BACK CREEK ANGUS
Joe and Robin Hampton
A NIMAL H EALTH
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
1320 Old Manning Rd., Sumter, SC 29150
803-481-2011
williammcleod@ftc-i.net • www.blackcrestfarm.com
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
C. A. H. Brent Glenn, DVM Lancaster, S.C.
AUTO • HOME • LIFE BUSINESS • FARM & RANCH
Jim Traynham Wingate, N.C. 704-233-5366 Cell - 704-292-4217
Carolinas Animal Health, LLC
“Cattle with Something Extra”
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
QUALITY GELBVIEH, ANGUS, & BALANCER CATTLE
DUANE & WENDY STRIDER, OWNERS
Ernest B. Harris President
Phone: 252-257-2140 Mobile: 252-430-9595 ®
Duane Cell: 336-964-6277 • Wendy Cell: 336-964-5127 Home: 336-381-3640 • Fax: 910-428-4568 ccrosscattle@yahoo.com • ccrosscattle.com THE HERD THAT CONSISTENTLY PRODUCES CATTLE WITH PERFORMANCE, CARCASS, AND EYE APPEAL.
Inc. / Auctioneers
On Your Side®
James S. Wills • The Wills Agency LLC Primary Agent/Owner Master Farm Certified
555 West Church Street Batesburg, SC 29006
REGISTERED POLLED HEREFORDS • EST. 1998 “Quality Cattle For Quality People”
John Wheeler • 910-489-0024 doublejfarm@yahoo.com • www.doublejfarmllc.com
BEEF FOR SALE
Headquarters - 775 Clacton Circle • Earlysville, VA 22936 Cattle located in Traphill, N.C.
CATTLE FOR SALE PRIVATE TREATY AT ALL TIMES!
328 Fowken Farm Rd. • Jonesville, SC More than 70 years of breeding grass type cattle! Carcass Data • Fescue Suited • Southern Bred EPDs Breeding Soundness Exam on Two-Year-Old Bulls
Farm Raised Quality Meat
Norris Fowler - 864-219-0182 Greg - 864-426-7337 • Rogers - 864-426-3281 www.fowkenfarm.com
104 Springfield Lane Louisburg, NC 27549
Phil Goodson: 919-880-9062 Alex Askew: 910-260-2889
• Performance Tested • Ultrasound and 50K Evaluated • Registered Angus Bulls
KEEP POSTED FOR UPDATES ON THE
ALL Regular Copy
RICHARD KIRKMAN, DVM 20416 US 64 West Siler City, NC 27344-0350
919-742-5500 • rdkirkman@centurylink.net
THE YON FAMILY 318 Aiken Road • Ridge Spring, SC 29129 www.yonfamilyfarm.com
Autryville, NC 28318 www.howardbrosfarms.com
Darryl Howard Cell: 910-990-2791
October 15, 2022
Angus • SimAngus • Ultrablacks
FOR SALE
WHITEHALL BEEFMASTERS Joe and Ann Logan 214 Cowhead Creek Road Greenwood, SC 29646
Telephone: 864-538-3004
PAGE 62
for the
AUGUST ISSUE by JULY 5! ALL Spotlight Material for the
BBU Registered Beefmaster Bulls and Females
Jonathan Massey
336-260-2565 • jonathan.massey2@gmail.com
Johnny Massey
336-214-4144 • johnnymassey.1@gmail.com
The Carolina Cattle Connection q JULY 2022
Telephone: 803-532-3390 Cell: 864-554-4658 Fax: 803-532-0615 james@twainsurance.com
Your Ad Here!
SPRINGFIELD ANGUS
2022 Tarheel Angus/4K Farm Production Sale
®
Agribusiness
3200 NC Hwy. 58 • Warrenton, NC 27589 NCAL #1468 • NC#C#4264 • VAL #146 • SCAL #3895 Email: ebharris@ebharris.com www.ebharris.com
Cattle Available Private Treaty
2610 Kee Moore Drive Chester, SC 29706
Nationwide
AUCTIONEERING
BLACK GROVE Breeding Registered Angus since 1962
INSURANCE
AUGUST ISSUE by JULY 1!
NDEX OF 14th Annual EBS Farms Select Bull & Female Sale .................. 20 4K Farms/Tarheel Angus ...................................................... 63 47th Annual Union County Performance Tested Bull Sale ...... 7 American National Insurance — The Josey Agency ............... 63 Apple Brandy Prime Cuts ....................................................... 26 Back Creek Angus .................................................................. 63 Biltmore Livestock — Angus .................................................. 24 BioZyme - VitaCharge ............................................................ 52 Black Crest Farm ................................................................... 63 Black Grove Angus ................................................................ 63 Brubaker Family Angus ......................................................... 63 C-Cross Cattle Company ........................................................ 63 Callicrate Banders ................................................................ 48 Carolinas Animal Health ....................................................... 63 Childers Concrete Company, Inc. ............................................ 3 Circle F Farms ........................................................................ 37 Conquest Insurance Agency, Inc. ........................................... 10 Double J Farms ...................................................................... 63 E.B. Harris Auctioneers, Inc. ................................................. 63 Edisto Pines Female Production Sale .................................... 23 First Choice Insurance — Donna Byrum ................................ 28 Fowken Farms ....................................................................... 63 FPL Foods .............................................................................. 25 Fred Smith Company Ranch .................................................. 63 Howard Brothers Farms ........................................................ 63 Hunt’s H+ Brangus ................................................................ 63 Hutton & Sons Herefords ...................................................... 63 Mid-Atlantic Cattle Sales — Stockyard Schedules .................. 33 N.C. Angus Association Directory …....................................... 21 N.C. Cattlemen’s Association Membership Application ........ 35 N.C. Hereford Association Directory ..................................... 27
For Your Advertising Needs, Contact: The Carolina Cattle Connection 919-552-9111 The Livestock Advertising Network 859-278-0899
DVERTISERS N.C. Meat Suite ..................................................................... 47 N.C. Simmental Association .................................................. 18 National Beef Checkoff/ North Carolina Cattle Industry Assessment ........................ 9 National Cattlemen’s Beef Association 2022 Policy Priorities ......................................................... 39 National Cattlemen’s Beef Association Membership Application ................................................... 41 National Cattlemen’s Beef Association Membership Benefits ......................................................... 40 Nationwide® AgriBusiness Insurance — The Wills Agency ............................................................ 63 Nationwide® AgriBusiness Insurance — The Wills Agency ............................................................ 54 Pasture Management & N.C. Cattlemen’s Association “Mile of Fence” Membership Program .............................. 34 Pearson Livestock Equipment .............................................. 13 Piedmont Custom Meats ......................................................... 2 Red Angus Association of the Carolinas Directory ................ 55 Rusty Thomson & Family Cattle Fencing and Equipment ...... 59 SimAngus Solution ............................................................... 63 South Carolina Private Treaty Sale Checkoff Investment Form ................................................. 57 Southeast Livestock Exchange — Upcoming Sale Schedule ................................................ 58 Springfield Angus ................................................................. 63 The Barn Loft — Purina ......................................................... 32 The Carolina Cattle Connection 2022 Spotlight Schedule ...... 61 The Carolina Cattle Connection Advertising Rates & Sizes .... 17 Virginia Herd Health Management Services ....................... 60 Vetericyn .............................................................................. 15 Watauga Butchery ................................................................ 55 West End Precast — Feed Bunks ............................................ 22 West End Precast — Feed Bunks & Troughs ........................... 45 Whitehall Beefmasters ......................................................... 63 Wilders Farm ........................................................................ 63 Wilkes Livestock Exchange ...................................................56 Yon Family Farms ................................................................. 63 The Carolina Cattle Connection
q JULY 2022
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VENTS ANGUS Aug. 6 — Edisto Pines Female Production Sale, Leesville, S.C. Oct. 15 — Fred Smith Company Ranch Extra Effort Fall Sale, Clayton, N.C. Oct. 29 — Yon Family Farms Fall Sale, Ridge Spring, S.C. Oct. 30 — High Ridge Farms Genetic Opportunity Sale, Albemarle, N.C. Nov. 5 — Craven Angus Farm Open House Bull & Female Sale, Seagrove, N.C. Nov. 5 — 14th SimAngus Solution Sale, Burlington, N.C. Nov. 19 — McMahan Farm & Hancock Angus Annual Registered Angus Bull Sale, Mocksville, N.C. Nov. 19 — 11th Annual Southeast Bull Expo & Sale, Asheboro, N.C. Dec. 2 — Knoll Crest Farm Total Performance Bull Sale, Red House, Va. Dec. 3 — The Pounds & Profit Sale, Snow Camp, N.C. Dec. 3 — 47th Annual Union County Performance Test Bull Sale, Monroe, N.C. 2023 Jan. 7 — 14th Annual EBS Select Bull & Heifer Sale, Norwood, N.C. Feb. 9 — 30th Annual UGA Focus on Genetically Enhanced EPDs Sale, Athens, Ga. Feb. 18 — Yon Family Farms Spring Sale, Ridge Spring, S.C. Brahman Oct. 15 — Circle F Farms Fall Sale, Baxley, Ga. CHAROLAIS Jun. 4 — Appalachian Classic Sale, Knoxville, Tenn. GELBVIEH Oct. 29 — Yon Family Farms Fall Sale, Ridge Spring, S.C. Oct. 30 — High Ridge Far Dec. 2 — Knoll Crest Farm Total Performance Bull Sale, Red House, Va. Dec. 3 — 47th Annual Union County Performance Test Bull Sale, Monroe, N.C. 2023 Feb. 18 — Yon Family Farms Spring Sale, Ridge Spring, S.C. HEREFORD Dec. 2 — Knoll Crest Farm Total Performance Bull Sale, Red House, Va. SIMMENTAL Aug. 26-30 — 2022 Annual ASA Fall Focus, Roanoke, Va. Sep. 2 — N.C. Simmental Association Annual Meeting, Union Grove, N.C.
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Sep. 3 — N.C. Simmental Association Fall Harvest Sale, Union Grove, N.C. Oct. 15 — Fred Smith Company Ranch Extra Effort Fall Sale, Clayton, N.C. Oct. 29 — Yon Family Farms Fall Sale, Ridge Spring, S.C. Oct. 30 — High Ridge Farms Genetic Opportunity Sale, Albemarle, N.C. Nov. 5 — 14th SimAngus Solution Sale, Burlington, N.C. Dec. 3 — The Pounds & Profit Sale, Snow Camp, N.C. Dec. 3 — 47th Annual Union County Performance Test Bull Sale, Monroe, N.C. 2023 Feb. 9 — 30th Annual UGA Focus on Genetically Enhanced EPDs Sale, Athens, Ga. Livestock market sales Jul. 5 — Mid-Atlantic Cattle Sales Video Auction, via macsvideo.com Jul. 6 — Stanly County Livestock Market Weekly Sale, Norwood, N.C. Jul. 6 — Wilkes Livestock Exchange Weekly Sale, North Wilkesboro, N.C. Jul. 11 — Harward Brothers Livestock Market Weekly Sales, Turnersburg, N.C. Jul. 13 — Stanly County Livestock Market Weekly Sale, Norwood, N.C. Jul. 13 — Wilkes Livestock Exchange Weekly Sale, North Wilkesboro, N.C. Jul. 18 — Harward Brothers Livestock Market Weekly Sales, Turnersburg, N.C. Jul. 19 — Mid-Atlantic Cattle Sales Video Auction, via macsvideo.com Jul. 20 — Stanly County Livestock Market Weekly Sale, Norwood, N.C. Jul. 20 — Wilkes Livestock Exchange Weekly Sale, North Wilkesboro, N.C. Jul. 25 — Harward Brothers Livestock Market Weekly Sales, Turnersburg, N.C. Jul. 27 — Stanly County Livestock Market Weekly Sale, Norwood, N.C. Jul. 27 — Wilkes Livestock Exchange Weekly Sale, North Wilkesboro, N.C. Aug. 1 — Harward Brothers Livestock Market Weekly Sales, Turnersburg, N.C. Aug. 2 — Mid-Atlantic Cattle Sales Video Auction, via macsvideo.com Aug. 3 — Stanly County Livestock Market Weekly Sale, Norwood, N.C. Aug. 3 — Wilkes Livestock Exchange Weekly Sale, North Wilkesboro, N.C. Aug. 8 — Harward Brothers Livestock Market Weekly Sales, Turnersburg, N.C. Aug. 10 — Stanly County Livestock Market Weekly Sale, Norwood, N.C. Aug. 10 — Wilkes Livestock Exchange Weekly Sale, North Wilkesboro, N.C. Aug. 15 — Harward Brothers Livestock Market Weekly Sales, Turnersburg, N.C.
The Carolina Cattle Connection q JULY 2022
Aug. 16 — Mid-Atlantic Cattle Sales Video Auction, via macsvideo.com Aug. 17 — Stanly County Livestock Market Weekly Sale, Norwood, N.C. Aug. 17 — Wilkes Livestock Exchange Weekly Sale, North Wilkesboro, N.C. Aug. 22 — Harward Brothers Livestock Market Weekly Sales, Turnersburg, N.C. Aug. 24 — Stanly County Livestock Market Weekly Sale, Norwood, N.C. Aug. 24 — Wilkes Livestock Exchange Weekly Sale, North Wilkesboro, N.C. Aug. 29 — Harward Brothers Livestock Market Weekly Sales, Turnersburg, N.C. Aug. 31 — Stanly County Livestock Market Weekly Sale, Norwood, N.C. Aug. 31 — Wilkes Livestock Exchange Weekly Sale, North Wilkesboro, N.C. Sep. 6 — Mid-Atlantic Cattle Sales Video Auction, via macsvideo.com Sep. 20 — Mid-Atlantic Cattle Sales Video Auction, via macsvideo.com Oct. 4 — Mid-Atlantic Cattle Sales Video Auction, via macsvideo.com Oct. 18 — Mid-Atlantic Cattle Sales
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Video Auction, via macsvideo.com Nov. 1 — Mid-Atlantic Cattle Sales Video Auction, via macsvideo.com Nov. 15 — Mid-Atlantic Cattle Sales Video Auction, via macsvideo.com Dec. 6 — Mid-Atlantic Cattle Sales Video Auction, via macsvideo.com OTHER EVENTS Jul. 25-29 — Armed to Farm FarmerVeteran Training, Boone, N.C. Jul. 26 — Discovering the Farm 4-H Youth Summer Camp, Sanford, N.C. Aug. 4 — Weaned Feeder Calf Sale, Norwood, N.C. Aug. 9 — Pasture Species Identification Workshop, Siloam, N.C. Sep. 22 — Weaned Feeder Calf Sale, Norwood, N.C. Nov. 17 — Weaned Feeder Calf Sale, Norwood, N.C. 2023 Feb. 9 — 30th Annual UGA Focus on Genetically Enhanced EPDs Sale, Athens, Ga.
IGHTER
Jim, who was late to everything, was drafted. Sure enough, in boot camp, he was last in line to get a rifle. When it was his turn, the quartermaster said, “I’m sorry but we’re all out of rifles.” Jim said, “How can I do the drills then?” The quartermaster replied, “Take this stick and when it’s time to shoot, yell ‘Bangety Bang Bang!’ Go get a bayonet on it and maybe it’ll look better.” But, again, Jim was last in line. The quartermaster tells Jim, “I’m sorry but now we’re all out of bayonets. Tie this banana on the end of your stick and when you’re doing drills, yell “Stabbety Stab Stab!’” It goes well, but after just a couple weeks of training Jim finds himself in the actual war! He’s on the front lines, and he doesn’t know what he’s going to do. But then an enemy soldier jumps out in front of him, and his training takes over. He points his stick and yells, “Bangety Bang Bang!” The soldier falls down dead. Another rushes him from the back. Jim twists around and yells’ “Stabbety Stab Stab!” and that soldier also falls down dead. “Maybe that quartermaster was a wizard,” Jim thinks as he takes down enemy soldiers right and left. “Bangety Bang Bang!” “Stabbety Stab Stab!” Then a very burly soldier steps in front of Jim. “Bangety Bang Bang,” he yells. Nothing happens. The soldier keeps
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coming. “Stabbety Stab Stab,” he tries. Again the soldier keeps coming. “Bangety Bang Bang! Stabbety Stab Stab! Bangety Bang Bang! Stabety Stab Stab!” Nothing fazes the soldier as he very slowly pushes Jim over, and tramples him to death. The enemy soldier looking down at Jim says in a very, very deep voice says, “Tankety Tank Tank.”
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A pirate walks into a bar with an eyepatch, peg leg, and hook for a hand. The bartender notices his leg, “How did you get that peg leg?” The pirate replies, “It were many years ago. I were walkin’ on the deck when a wave swept a shark aboard. The shark bit my leg off!” “Wow,” replies the bartender. “What about that hand?” The pirate replies, “It were many years ago. I were walkin’ on the deck when a wave swept a killer whale aboard. The whale bit my leg hand!” “Oh,” replies the bartender. “How about the eye?” The pirate replies, “It were many years ago. I were walkin’ on the deck when a seagull came outta nowhere and pooped in my eye.” “And that blinded you?” asked the bartender. “No, it twas my first day with the hook.”