The Carolina Cattle Connection - Volume 38, Issue No. 3 (MARCH 2024)

arolinaCCCattle onnection

Spotlight on ANGUS

2023 N.C. Cattlemen’s Beef Council Annual Report ..................................................... page 37-40

2024 South Carolina Sale Barn Cattle Receipts .................................................................... page 36

A Message from the CEO — Accountability - Part 1, by Colin Woodall ............................. page 65

Amazing Grazing — Harnessing the Power of Electric Fences - Part 2 — Lightning Protection, by Dr. Matt Poore ....................................................................... page 21

American Gelbvieh Association News ................................................................................... page 31

American Hereford Association News .................................................................................. page 32

Animal Agriculture Alliance News .......................................................................................... page 61

Ashley’s Beef Corner — Reaching Out, by Ashley W. Herring ............................................ page 18

Beef Checkoff News .................................................................................................................. page 49

Beef Cuts and Recommended Cooking Methods ................................................................ page 48

Beef Quality Assurance Update — Beef Quality Audit Continues to Pay Dividends for the Entire Industry, by Dan Kiffen ........................................................................... page 71

BioZyme News ........................................................................................................................... page 60

Carolina Cooking — Indian Beef Shepherd’s Pie .................................................................. page 18

Case IH News .............................................................................................................................. page 50

Cattlemen’s Beef Board Update ............................................................................................. page 49

Director’s Report — Starting the Year Off Right, by Travis W. Mitchell .............................. page 3

E.B.’s View from the Cow Pasture — Legalize What?, by E.B. Harris ................................ page 22

Farm Credit News ...................................................................................................................... page 50

Federation of State Beef Councils Update ............................................................................ page 66

Have You Herd — Cattle as the Climate Solution — Carbon Sequestration in Pasture Systems, by Duncan Lloyd McSorley .................. page 22

I’m No Engineer or Economist, But..., by Christopher LeMaster ............................................. page 54

John Deere News

Merck News

page 58

page 59

Moo Vet — One Veterinarian’s Role in Food Supply and Sustaining Humanity .............. page 53

N.C. Beef Cattle Improvement Program 2023 Bull Test Summary, by Johnny R. Rogers

N.C. Forage Education Corner — Silvopastures — A (North) Carolina Perspective, by Miguel S. Castillo

page 53

National

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South

Southeast

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You

Zoetis

President SCOTT WEST

489 Panacea Springs Road • Littleton, NC 27850

Vice Presidents

RYAN CLARK

5250 NC 772 Hwy. • Madison, NC 27025

BRANDON BOWMAN

2346 Ann Street • Claremont, NC 28610

JIM LEDFORD

260 Mulberry Lane • Otto, NC 28763

Immediate Past President

BURON LANIER

2877 Piney Woods Road • Burgaw, NC 28425

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 - MILO LEWIS 2228 N. Main Street • Fuquay-Varina, NC 27526

N.C. Cattlemen’s Beef Council Director of Consumer Information

ASHLEY W. HERRING

Administrative Assistant - KIM BURDGE

S.C. Cattlemen’s Association

Executive Director - TRAVIS MITCHELL

P.O. Box 207 • Saluda, SC 29138

Phone: 803-609-2828

Email: twmitch@clemson.edu

Website: www.sccattlemen.wildapricot.org

Executive Committee

President - Timmy Benton 1st Vice President - Joe Oswald IV 2nd Vice President - Gene Crim

Secretary - Carol Hendrix

Treasurer - Eric Seymour

Past President - Roscoe Kyle

John Lews, Chester • Joe Oswald, IV, Allendale

Roscoe Kyle, Inman • Terry Kirkland, Batesburg

Lloyd Baxley, Georgetown • Joe Davis, Westminster

Michael Hall, Abbeville • Richard Sox, Lexington

Carol Hendrix, Westminister • Jamie Driggers, Hamer

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

P.O. Box 11280 • Columbia, SC 29211

Phone: 803-917-1119

Email: scbeef@scda.sc.gov

Website: www.sccattle.org

The Carolina Cattle Connection

Vol. 38, No. 3 MARCH 2024

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.

STAFF

Manager, N.C. MILO LEWIS

Manager, S.C. TRAVIS MITCHELL

Editor & Advertising Director CASEY L. HINNANT

Assistant Editor & Proofreader

KIM BURDGE

N.C. Circulation KIM BURDGE

S.C. Circulation TRAVIS MITCHELL

Material in The Carolina Cattle Connection is not to be reproduced in total or in part without the written permission of the Editor. All submissions become property of The Carolina Cattle Connection, but we make every effort to return items such as photographs and artwork as requested.

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

page 28

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 purch ased came from another state within the last 30 days, indicate from which state the cattle were purchased.

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, 14 th and Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-9410 or call 202-720-5964 (voice and TDD). USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

Director’s report

By TRAVIS W. MITCHELL, Executive Director, SCCA

Starting the Year Off Right

The S.C. Cattlemen’s Association held its Annual Meeting and Trade Show on February 2. Members in attendance received two great presentations from J.C. Hobbs, Associate Extension Specialist in the Agricultural Economics department at Oklahoma State University. Mr. Hobbs presented on the cattle market outlook and included investment strategies during cattle market highs. The meeting concluded with a joint awards banquet with the Clemson Bull Test. The banquet

keynote speaker was Representative Davey Hiott, who serves as House Majority Leader in the South Carolina House of Representatives.

We would like to thank each of our Prime, Choice, and Select members for putting on an outstanding trade show and for their financial support to make the 2024 Annual Meeting a huge success. Be on the lookout in next month’s issue of The Carolina Cattle Connection for photos and awards of excellence winners.

S.C. Cattle Receipts, Trends, and Prices for the Month of JANUARY 2024

Cattle Receipts: 8,745 • Previous Month: 6,971

Feeder supply - 22% steers • 43% heifers • 35% bulls

FEEDER CLASSES

Spotlight on AngUS e Special Section f

History of Angus Cattle

In the northeastern part of Scotland lie the four counties of Aberdeen, Banff, Kincardine, and Angus. These counties touch the North Sea, extend inland, and have some high or mountainous country. They have been favored through the ages with a temperate climate and good crops, although the topography of the country is rough. Pastures do well in the area because of well distributed rainfall. Plenty of grass, plus a nearly ideal temperature for cattle production, has made the area very suitable for some of the greatest improvement that has been made in our purebred breeds of cattle. The county of Angus was early noted for its production of potatoes, grain crops, and feed. This shire contains a fine expanse of highly cultivated land known as Strathmore, which is one of the very fine valleys in that part of Scotland and which has become famous in the history of the Aberdeen-Angus breed. The county of Aberdeen is the most productive agricultural region in Scotland and depends largely upon crops and livestock for income. The fishing industry, however, is stressed along the coastline. The tiny counties of Banff and Kincardine have long been known as livestock centers.

Northern Scotland, although in a more northern latitude than the United States, has a more uniform temperature throughout the year. The Gulf Steam tempers the climate in the winter, and the summers remain cooler than the weather commonly experienced in the United States.

Origin

There are three distinct and well defined breeds of polled cattle in the United Kingdom. These breeds are the Aberdeen-Angus, the Galloway, and the red polled Norfolk and Suffolk breed that is found in England. Polled cattle apparently existed in Scotland before recorded history because the likeness of such cattle is found in prehistoric carvings of Aberdeen and Angus. Historians state that there were hornless cattle in Siberia centuries earlier. A hornless race of cattle was depicted in Egypt by sculptors and painters of that ancient civilization. Some historians feel that the AberdeenAngus breed and the other Scottish breeds sprang from the aboriginal cattle of the country and that the breeds, as we find them today, are indigenous to the districts in which they are still found.

Early Scottish Cattle - Although little is known about the early origin of the cattle that later became known as the Aberdeen-Angus breed, it is thought that the improvement of the original stock found in the area began in the last half of the 18th century. The cattle found in northern Scotland were not of uniform color, and many of the cattle of the early days had varied color markings or broken color patterns. Many of the cattle were polled, but some few had horns. The characteristics we commonly call polled was often referred to in the old Scottish writings by the terms of “humble,” “doddies,” “humlies,” or “homyl.”

Foundation of the Breed - Two strains were used in the formation

of what later became known as the Aberdeen-Angus breed of cattle. In the county of Angus, cattle had existed for some time that were known as Angus doddies. MacDonald and Sinclair quote the Reverend James Playfair as having written in 1797, “There are 1,129 horned cattle of all ages and sexes in the parish. I have no other name for them, but many of them are dodded, wanting horns.” This seems to be the first authentic reference to polled cattle in the county of Angus, apart from ancient sculptures. In the area of Aberdeenshire, other polled cattle were found and were called Buchan “humlies,” Buchan being the principal agricultural district in Aberdeenshire. These cattle were apparently early valued as work oxen, as were most of the other strains of cattle that later acquired various breed names. MacDonald and Sinclair believed that polled cattle were found in Aberdeen in the 16th century and stated:

“The presence of polled cattle in Aberdeenshire 400 years ago is proved beyond the shadow of a doubt, and it may generally be taken for granted that they were co-existent in various parts of northeastern Scotland, their purity being contingent on the degree of care exercised in breeding.”

Improvement in Scottish Agriculture - Apparently, little attention was given to the breeding of cattle before the middle of the 18th century, but in the last half of that century, great progress was made in Scottish agriculture. It is not strange that, as farming practices were improved, men likewise sought to improve the livestock on their farms. It was only natural that

breeders, in improving their cattle, would buy cattle of similar kinds from adjacent areas, and as a result, the cattle of the Angus doddie strain and the Buchan humlie strain were crossed. Crossing and recrossing these strains of cattle eventually led to a distinct breed that was not far different from either type since the two strains were originally of rather similar type and color pattern.

The Early Herds - By the beginning of the 19th century, the polled cattle of the Buchan district had attained considerable favor as market cattle for the production of carcass beef. Among the polled herds of Aberdeenshire that were famous for such production in the early 1800s were those of Messrs. Williamson of St. John’s Wells and Robert Walker of Wester Fintray. The Williamson herd later supplied the herd of Tillyfour and, through it, the Ballindalloch herd with some of their humlies. In Angus, the herds of William Fullerton, Lord Panmure, Lord Southesk, and Alexander Bowie contributed many of the Angus

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doddies that later became prominent in the breed. Robert Walker of Portlethen seems to have been the principal cattle breeder in Kincardineshire.

The Contribution of Hugh Watson - If any one person can be singled out as the founder of a breed of livestock, Hugh Watson of Keillor, who lived in the vale of Strathmore in Angus, is worthy of that distinction. If not the first real improver of Aberdeen-Angus cattle, he was certainly the most systematic and successful. Both his father and grandfather had been buyers and breeders of the Angus doddies. The family is known to have owned cattle as early as 1735. Hugh Watson was born in 1789, and in 1808, at the time he was 19 years of age, he became a tenant at Keillor.

When Hugh Watson started his farming activities at Keillor, he received from his father’s herd six of the best and blackest cows, as well as a bull. That same summer, he visited some of the leading Scottish cattle markets and purchased the ten best heifers and the best bull he could find that showed characteristics of the Angus cattle he was striving to breed. The females were of various colors, but the bull was black; Watson decided that the color of his herd should be black, and he started selecting in that direction.

Mr. Watson’s favorite bull was Old Jock 126 (1), which was awarded the number “1” in the Herd Book at the time it was founded. The bull was bred by Watson in 1842 and was sired by Grey-Breasted Jock 113 (2). The bull apparently was used very heavily in the herd from 1843 until 1852 and was awarded the sweepstakes for bulls at the Highland Society Show at

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Perth in 1852, when he was 11 years old.

A very famous cow also made considerable history in the herd at Keillor. This cow was Old Granny 125 (1), who was calved in 1824 and was killed by lightning when past 35 years of age. She is reported to have produced a total of 29 calves, 11 of which were registered in the Herd Book. A very large percentage of our living Aberdeen-Angus cattle trace to either Old Granny or Old Jock, or both of these very famous foundation animals, and most would trace many times if their pedigrees were extended to the foundation of the breed.

Hugh Watson practiced the fitting and showing of his cattle more than was common by other breeders of his day. He made his first exhibition at the Highland Agricultural Society Show in Perth in 1829. During his long show career, he is said to have won over 500 prizes with his cattle and did a great deal to increase the popularity of the black polled cattle over the British Isles.

Other Early Contributors - Lord Panmure established a herd of polled cattle in 1835 and not only operated a private herd but also encouraged his tenants to breed good doddies. William Fullerton, who was born in 1810, began to breed cattle in 1833. His most important early purchase was that of another Aberdeen cow named Black Meg. Black Meg 43 (766) is sometimes referred to as the founder of the breed since more cattle trace to her than to any other female used in the origin of the breed. She is the only cow to surpass Old Granny in this respect. Robert Walker of Porlethen founded his herd in 1818 and continued to breed cattle

successfully until his death in 1874.

Shorthorn Breed Threatens the Aberdeen-Angus - In 1810, the Colling brothers of England sold the famous Shorthorn bull Comet at $5,000. The publicity resulting from this sale naturally spread throughout Scotland, and many breeders looked with favor upon the use of Shorthorn blood in improving the native cattle. Subsequently, good herds of Shorthorn cattle were established in Scotland, and the cattle were used in the improvement of native stock. The use of the Shorthorn cattle on the black native cows was a very common practice of the period for the raising of commercial stock. This practice of crossbreeding threatened the Aberdeen-Angus breed with extinction.

It is often suggested that some Shorthorn blood found its way into the Aberdeen-Angus breed prior to the time the Herd Book was closed. Alexander Keith, secretary of the Aberdeen-Angus Cattle Society from 1944-1955, takes exception to this opinion by writing, “The statement has been frequently made that shorthorn blood was introduced into the Aberdeen-Angus breed at an early stage of its existence. There is no foundation whatever for such a statement. The tribes from which the Aberdeen-Angus breed were drawn were supplying England with beef cattle for generations before what became the beef Shorthorn was taken across the Border into Scotland and improved into what is known as the Scotch Shorthorn. Of the AberdeenAngus pioneers, Hugh Watson had a certain number of Shorthorn cattle, but it is quite evident from his own remarks and his insistence upon the blackness of his Aberdeen-Angus cattle that he would never have permitted mixing them. And McCombie, when one or two farmers

introduced the Teeswater or Shorthorn breed into his neighborhood, drove them out by completely dominating the local shows with his Aberdeen-Angus black polls. The feeling of the early improvers of Aberdeen-Angus cattle may be gathered from the fact that my own grandfather, who was one of McCombie’s friends and associates, would not allow anything but a black beast on his farm and in his old age when I was a young boy he would insist that if I ever became a farmer and wished to be a successful feeder of cattle, I must stick rigidly to the Blacks.”

Improvement and Expansion of the Aberdeen-Angus

The Great Preserver - William McCombie of Tillyfour is regarded as the preserver and great improver of the Aberdeen-Angus breed. Fullerton and others had started blending the two types of cattle, which later became known as the Aberdeen-Angus, but this success was enlarged at Tillyfour. The master of Tillyfour was born in 1805 and died in the spring of 1880. Like his father before him, he had been a successful dealer in cattle before he began his operations in 1829 as a tenant farmer. Mr. McCombie is distinguished in the history of the Aberdeen-Angus breed because of his great foresight in planning matings, his careful management, his unparalleled success in the show ring, and in publicizing his famous cattle. Probably his crowning success in the show ring was at the great International Exposition held in Paris in 1878. There, he won the first prize of $500 as an exhibitor of cattle from a foreign country and also the grand prize of $500 for the best group of beefproducing animals bred by any exhibitor.

Not only did Mr. McCombie show in breeding classes, but he also exhibited in steer classes at the market shows. Probably the most famous steer that her produced was the famous show animal Black prince, who won at the Birmingham and Smithfield Shows in 1867 when he was four years of age. From the latter show, he was taken to Windsor Castle for the personal inspection of Queen Victoria, and later, her Majesty accepted some Christmas beef from the carcass of the steer.

The English Crown has long been interested in livestock improvement, and Queen Victoria paid a personal visit to

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Spotlight on AngUS

Tillyfour a year or two after the visit of the famous Black prince to the castle. Such a tribute to an outstanding breeder naturally attracted great attention to the already famous herd. McCombie had the further distinction of being the first tenant farmer in Scotland to be elected to the House of Commons.

According to the historian Sanders, “Aberdeen-Angus history may fairly be divided into two periods: before William McCombie’s time; the second, since. That is as good as any other way of saying that the Master of Tillyfour, recognized cattle king of his day and generation in AberdeenAngusshire and all Scotland, stands a very colossus upon any canvas which accurately portrays the original arrival of black cattle as a factor of world importance in the field of prime beef production.”

William McCombie always had utility in mind in producing his cattle, and his ideal beast seems to have been one with size, symmetry, and balance, yet with strength of constitution and disposition to accumulate flesh.

Important Developments at Tillyfour - Although his original stock was gathered from many sources and his purchases were many, Mr. McCombie’s outstanding acquisition was probably the good yearling heifer Queen Mother 41 (348) at the Ardestie Sale.

Mr. McCombie purchased the bull Hanton 80 (228), calved in 1853, from the breeder Alexander Bowie. This bull was a grandson of Old Jock 126 (1) and was said to have weighed a ton at maturity. Despite the fact that he had scurs, he was a great show bull and was exhibited widely by Mr. McCombie. The bull’s success, however, was more pronounced in the breeding pen, and he probably made his greatest contribution

to the breed through his double grandson, Black Prince of Tillyfour 77 (366), calved in 1860. Few, if any, cattle of the breed are living today that do not trace at least a dozen times to Black Prince of Tillyfour. It is difficult to say how much contribution Mr. McCombie made to the Aberdeen-Angus breed through his successes in the show ring, but he outstripped all of his competition in England, Scotland, and France.

Consequently, the name of AberdeenAngus became known on an international basis. It was on the farm of William McCombie that the Aberdeen-Angus breed really took shape because, prior to his time, people spoke of the cattle as Aberdeen and Angus. In his herd, the justification for leaving out the “and” and replacing it with the hyphen that has become familiar was found. At Tillyfour, the master breeder molded the two original strains into one improved breed superior to either of its components. There is no question but that the “preserver” of the Angus breed left the breed far better than he found it.

The Ballindalloch Herd - Another very famous Aberdeen-Angus herd in Scotland was that of Ballindalloch, but the origin of this herd is lost in the mists of antiquity. It was probably first founded by Sir John MacPherson Grant, but it was not until the time the farm came into the hands of Sir George, a son, that systematic breeding was started. Sir George drew heavily on Tillyfour cattle in establishing his herd.

It was very fortunate for the breed that the Ballindalloch herd was kept in the family for over three generations. The main herd was dispersed on August 8, 1934, but it had already left a great imprint on the Aberdeen-Angus world. Not only was the Ballindalloch herd the outstanding herd in

Scotland but it must also be given credit for having furnished a great deal of very valuable foundation stock to the herds of the United States and other foreign countries.

The First Angus In America

When George Grant transported four Angus bulls from Scotland to the middle of the Kansas prairie in 1873, they were part of the Scotsman’s dream to found a colony of wealthy, stock raising Britishers. Grant died five years later, and many of the settlers at his Victoria, Kansas colony later returned to their homeland. However, these four Angus bulls, probably from the herd of George Brown of Westertown, Fochabers, Scotland, made a lasting impression on the U.S. cattle industry.

When two of the George Grant bulls were exhibited in the fall of 1873 at the Kansas City (Missouri) Livestock Exposition, some considered them “freaks” because of their polled (naturally hornless) heads and solid black color (Shorthorns were then the dominant breed.) Grant, a forward thinker, crossed the bulls with native Texas longhorn cows, producing a large number of hornless black calves that survived well on the winter range. The Angus crosses wintered better and weighed more the next spring, the first demonstration of the breed’s value in their new homeland.

Early Importers and Breeders - The first great herds of Angus beef cattle in America were built up by purchasing stock directly from Scotland. Further imports to the United States of some 1,200 head were made, mostly to the Midwest, in a period of explosive growth between 1878 and 1883. Over the next quarter of a century, these early owners, in turn, helped start other herds

by breeding, showing, and selling their registered stock.

Success in America - In 1883, a breed association, the American AberdeenAngus Breeders’ Association, was established with 60 members in Chicago, Illinois; the name was shortened to the American Angus Association in the 1950s.

Until 1917, both black and red cattle could be registered in the herdbook of the association. Thereafter, red coated individuals were barred from registration; since 1954, they have been registered by the Red Angus Association of America as Red Angus.

The American Angus population in 2023 numbered 300,761 head, with almost 160,000 females and over 140,000 registered bulls, making it the most numerous beef breed in the United States. In 2021, the conservation status of the breed was reported to DAD-IS as “not at risk.”

Use - The American Angus is a beef breed and is reared only for that purpose. Comparative trials have not identified any commercially significant difference between it and the Red Angus. Since 1978, beef meeting certain criteria may be marketed as “Certified Angus Beef,” a quality mark of the American Angus Association; provenance from purebred American Angus cattle is not a requirement.

Bulls have been used as sires for crossbreeding; the cross with Herefords gives rise to the black baldy, which displays hybrid vigor and the dominant characteristics of both breeds – it is polled, with a black coat and white face. The American Angus has contributed to the creation of various hybrid breeds, including the Amerifax.

Spotlight on AngUS e Special Section f

51st Annual Carolina Angus Futurity

Make plans to attend the 51st Annual Carolina Angus Futurity on March 16. The sale is sponsored by the South Carolina Angus Association and will take place at the T. Ed Garrison Cattle Complex at 12:00 noon. This year’s sale offers fall pairs, spring pairs, bred heifers, open heifers, and embryo lots. We hope you’ll take advantage of this offering of solid Angus genetics from South Carolina, North Carolina, and Georgia. We will also have two donation lots sold at the beginning of the sale. The Connie Maxwell Children’s Home has donated a pair, with the proceeds split between the Cory Watt Scholarship Fund and the S.C. Junior Angus Association. An embryo lot has been donated by Elite Cattle Company with proceeds to benefit St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

We’d love to see you in person on the day of the sale, but if you’re unable to attend, feel free to contact any of the sale staff or bid online with CCI Live. Please also join us for the S.C. Angus Association banquet and annual meeting

on March 15 in Clemson. Everyone is welcome, and payment will be accepted at the door.

If you’d like a catalog, please contact any of the sale staff. Join us on March 1516 for this great Angus event!

Sale Consignors

221 Cattle • Aynor Angus • Black Crest Farms • C&C Farms

Casey Green Cattle • Chessie Creek Farm • Clinton Farms

Connie Maxwell Children’s Home • Diamond L Farm • Elite Cattle Company

Four Winds Farm • McCarter Family Farms • Misty Hill Farm

Mull Meadow • Oak Hill Farm • Paul Boyd Angus • Rocking W Angu

Rose Myrtle Farm • S&H Poultry • Steve Waggoner

Two Rivers Cattle Company • Watts Angus Farm • Yon Family Farms

Sale Staff

Manager – Zach Moffitt – 336-736-6340 • Chairman – Donnie Watts – 803-315-6439

SCAA President – Lee Clinton – 704-913-6127

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N.C. Angus Association Hosts Field Day

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By CORTNEY HOLSHOUSER Executive Secretary, NCAA

The backdrop could not have been more perfect for the N.C. Angus Association’s Annual Field Day on September 30 in Asheville, North Carolina. As expected, Biltmore Estate was our gracious host, and the day was a first class event.

Over 300 people gathered in the Blue Ridge Mountains to engage in educational sessions and Biltmore’s First Annual Angus Cattle and Dorper Sheep sale. The morning started with a complimentary breakfast sponsored by AgSouth Farm Credit. Guests then were able to choose which sessions they wanted to attend based on their interests or what was important to their own

farming operations. A unique opportunity for this Field Day was the addition of topics geared toward sheep, as Biltmore is a very diversified operation. Tents A and B educational sessions were sponsored by Smoky Mountain Farmers Co-Op and Neogen. Additional sponsors for the day included N.C. Farm Bureau, Gallagher, and the N.C. Angus Association.

overall disease vigilance. The alternate session was “Finding Factors Affecting Fertility to Optimize your Reproductive Success,” presented by Dr. Dan Poole, Professor of Animal Science at N.C. State University. Infertility and/or fertility related deficiencies in livestock species are a major source of economic

loss for producers. Dr. Poole’s current research explores how environmental and management practices such as endophyte infected fescue and heat stress impact growth and reproductive performance in beef cattle.

During the second rotation, attendees were able to choose between sessions

During the first rotation, attendees chose between two presentations. In tent A, “Herd Biosecurity: A State of Mind” was presented by Dr. Harrison Dudley, Associate Veterinarian with Livestock Veterinarian Services. In this session, Dr. Dudley discussed herd and flock preventative health and Blue skies, green grass, and black cows are always the best scenery.

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focused on sheep or a specific overview of the Angus breed. In Tent A, Dr. Andrew Weaver, Extension Specialist and Associate Professor at N.C. State University, presented “The Little Ruminant That Could. Opportunities for sheep today and the tools to take us to the future.” This presentation examined the potential for sheep in today’s livestock systems, including the environmental and economic benefits of diversification with sheep. Further, the genetic tools available

Spotlight on AngUS

to the sheep industry were reviewed as a mechanism for production efficiency improvements. The alternate session for this rotation was “Have You Herd,” an overview of the American Angus Association and the current events going on in today’s cattle industry, presented by American Angus Association Regional Manager Reese Tuckwiller.

For the third rotation, the first option was presented by Kyle Mayberry, director of livestock at Biltmore Company. His

presentation was titled “Biltmore: A livestock legacy more than a century in the making.” Kyle told of Biltmore’s agriculture history that began with George Vanderbilt’s dream of creating a self sustaining estate. The second option

in this rotation was presented by Dr. Paige Pratt, Beef Genomic Specialist for Neogen. Paige’s presentation was titled “How to use Igenity and EPDs to Improve Your Profit.” The amount of genetic information available is a bit

The whole carcass demonstration was a very popular event.

Kyle Mayberry welcomes everyone to Biltmore.

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overwhelming, and how to interpret and understand genetic correlations and their impact on your operation is important when selecting a bull that will potentially sire over 100 calves in his lifetime. Participants learned how to use the Neogen Igenity scores along with EPDs to select your next herd sire, ensuring he will fit your operations goals and maximize profitability.

Kyle’s presentation was a wonderful glimpse into the Biltmore story. In the late 1800s, George Washington Vanderbilt acquired more than 200 tracts of land in the Blue Ridge Mountains near Asheville. This property would become the 125,000 acre estate known as Biltmore.

Landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted suggested farming the river bottoms of the French Broad and Swannanoa Rivers with the intention of raising livestock whose manure could be used to improve the land. Mr. Vanderbilt took Olmsted’s advice, and by 1889, the Biltmore dairy was born. Between 1900 and 1902, Mr. Vanderbilt commissioned the construction of a new, state-of-theart dairy barn, a structure that houses Biltmore’s Winery today.

In 1985, after nearly 100 years of successful operation, George Cecil, Mr. Vanderbilt’s oldest grandson, sold the dairy business to the dairy division of Pet, Inc. After the sale of Biltmore’s dairy, the decision was made to move into beef cattle and 29 black Angus heifers were purchased for the estate.

Since the 1980s, Biltmore has

continued to improve their genetics and supply estate restaurants with high quality beef products. Their herd focuses on maternal characteristics and supreme carcass genetics, while their pasture based system supports the long term land management goals of the estate.

Besides responsible beef production, Biltmore’s hog program continues with the same heritage breed Berkshires raised during Mr. Vanderbilt’s time. Dorper Sheep and crosses are also raised and have consistently produced tender, flavorful lamb products of exceptional quality. Aside from livestock, Biltmore produces silage from corn grown on the estate; other row crops are sold in the

local grain market.

The Biltmore Company today is comprised of nearly 2,000 employees, 8,000 acres, and the mission to “preserve Biltmore as a private, profitable, working estate.” The tradition of agriculture is an integral part of Biltmore’s story and success. Biltmore has always been a

agriculture story.

One of the most popular events of the day was the lunch demo sponsored by Premier Select Sires. “Concepts of Whole Animal Butchery” was a unique demonstration by Estate Executive Chef Mark Demarco and Estate Butcher David Jones. The two broke down a whole beef

working estate.

A special field to table lunch sponsored by West Hills Tractor wrapped up the morning’s events. This delicious lunch featured Biltmore Estate raised beef, lamb, hydroponic greens, and sunflower oil. The menu really brought everything full circle and was a true example of their self sustaining

carcass and gave an explanation of cuts and how they would use them. David really emphasized their commitment to respect each animal they process by utilizing each part of the animal. The audience was able to see very specific data for the carcass being used for the presentation. We were able to know the animal’s age, live weight at harvest, hanging carcass weight, adjusted weaning weight, the Angus GS marbling score, the sire, the sire’s marbling EPD, the dam, and the dam’s marbling EPD.

Biltmore’s first Annual Angus Cattle and Dorper Sheep Sale concluded the day and was a huge success. The 37 cattle lots averaged approximately $6,800.

If you were lucky enough to make a weekend out of this event, you were sure to catch all the beauty Biltmore Estate has to offer. From the farmland to their amazing restaurants, it is an exceptional experience to be immersed in their traditions.

A huge thank you goes out to Kyle Mayberry for his hard work in planning the day’s events and hosting such a large crowd. Another thank you to all of the sponsors and educational session presenters.

The bulls looked great and sold well.

The N.C. Angus Board of Directors in attendance for the day included Eugene Shuffler, Executive Secretary Cortney Holshouser, President Callie Carson, Kyle Mayberry, Roy Swisher, Bryant Chapman, and Joe Hampton.

The Blue Ridge Mountains were the perfect backdrop for the day.

N.C. Junior Angus Member Excels in Dual Purpose Program

By CORTNEY HOLSHOUSER

One of the most unique opportunities our Junior Angus breeders have available to them is the Phenotype and Genotype Show (PGS) offered by the National Junior Angus Association (NJAA) on the regional and national levels.

The objective behind the Phenotype and Genotype Show is to create another avenue for juniors to show their animals in an additional competition while providing an educational opportunity to learn about the value of Expected Progeny Differences (EPDs) and economical selection indexes ($Values) as a part of the process in selecting seedstock. Animals entered in the PGS will be evaluated by a judge under a system that requires both genotypes and phenotypes to be considered. The results will be a composite score where the genotype (EPDs & $Values) placing and phenotype placings will be equally weighted at fifty percent.

Now in its fourth year, the PGS show is quickly gaining popularity for its unique ability to include different types and kinds of cattle. The Angus breed is known for exceptional EPDs, and this show is able to incorporate those into a traditional cattle show. One junior Angus member who has quickly found her place in the PGS program is Maddie Grace Carpenter of Wadesboro, North Carolina.

Maddie Grace is very involved in the N.C. Junior Angus Association (NCJAA). She is currently serving as the NCJAA

reporter, an N.C. Angus Princess, and has been to multiple Leaders Engaged in Angus Development (LEAD) and Raising the Bar conferences. She is also an N.C. Beef Ambassador for the N.C. Cattlemen’s Association. She is a strong advocate for the Angus breed and cattle industry.

Maddie has been exhibiting her cattle in the PGS for three years at the Eastern Regional Junior Angus Show and the National Junior Angus Show. She has found her niche, as this program really fits what she and her family are trying to accomplish at home with their herd and the cattle they market to customers.

Maddie says the reason she became interested in the PGS is that they don’t raise typical show cattle on their farm. When going to the bigger shows, such as Eastern Regionals and Junior Nationals, it is hard to be competitive in the regular show. Maddie says, “Participating in the PGS shows allows me to be competitive in class because they are not only looking at their phenotype but also their genotype.”

and granddaughter discussing results; they are teaching moments and a chance to set goals. There may even be a little pleading going on as a heifer that places well happens to be in Bruce’s production sale.

Some of the EPDs Maddie and her family focus on when breeding and picking calves to show are $C, $B, Marbling, Ribeye, and Fat. They also focus on claw/angle and birth weight, weaning weight, and yearling weight.

Maddie has a great support system at home and on the road at the various shows she travels to. Most people who know Bruce Shankle know of his deep history in the cattle industry and Angus breed. His support of youth in the cattle industry is something to be admired. But the support he has shown to his grandchildren is unmatched. Many miles have been traveled, and many late nights have been spent in a barn helping Maddie Grace and her brother, E.B., prepare for cattle shows. Bruce is a great resource, as he has been breeding Angus cattle with exceptional EPDs for many years. At any of these cattle shows, you will most likely see him at the gate with a halter in hand, ready to help Maddie and E.B. after they have competed in class. You may even catch a conversation about the heifer and what kind of cow she is going to make or the bull she is sired by. These candid conversations are more than a grandfather

They feel that all EPDs are important, but these are especially important in producing a good, sound, functional cow that can also produce good, functional calves.

Maddie Grace fitting a heifer for a team competition.

Maddie Grace is very involved in all aspects of her family’s farm and caring for the cattle.

Maddie Grace is focused when in the show ring.

Maddie Grace’s involvement in the Angus breed has taken her all across the country.

Spotlight on AngUS e f

Bull selection is an important part of any operation, and Maddie Grace is learning this at a young age. She and her family analyze potential bulls’ EPDs and select what they think will work best for their operation and potential customers. Maddie says, “Participating in the PGS show has changed how I select bulls. Now we are not only looking at how they look but also how their EPDs are.” Some of the bulls she has chosen to use are G.B. Fireball 672, Linz Exemplify 71124, LAR Man In Black, Basin Jameson 1076, and TAR Dominance 0031.

The PGS program is teaching Maddie lots of valuable lessons and preparing her for her future in the cattle industry. It is a very rewarding experience for her to prepare a heifer for a show and know that the heifer will go home to make a good

cow. A highlight for her at the National Junior Angus Show was when her heifer placed third in genotype and third in class after placing sixth in phenotype. When asked what the PGS has taught her, Maddie says, “Participating in the PGS show has taught me that you don’t have to have show cattle to win at regional and national shows. The PGS show is often just as competitive as the regular show. It has also taught me how to properly read EPDs and how to pick out cattle and bulls that are going to produce production animals down the road.” Setting long term goals is also a part of raising cattle for these shows. Maddie’s long term goal with her cattle is to build a sound, functional herd of cattle that will produce cattle that will not only work on her farm but others’ farms as well.

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.

4K FARMS

Richard D. Kirkman, DVM Siler City 919-742-5500 • rdkirkman@spectrum.net

BACK CREEK

Joe & Robin Hampton Mt. Ulla 704-880-2488 (Joe); 704-880-3572 (Robin) robinbackcreek@att.net

Facebook: Back Creek Angus

BILTMORE ESTATE

Kyle Mayberry - Manager Asheville 828-768-1956 • livestock@biltmore.com www.biltmorelivestock.com

CARSON FAMILY FARM, LLC

John, Callie, Isaac & J.R. Carson Laurel Springs 336-818-9087 • carsonfamilyfarm@gmail.com

CHAPMAN CATTLE COMPANY

Bryant Chapman Taylorsville 828-514-0526

https://.m.facebook.com/chapmancattleco

FOUR S FARMS

Kim & Connie and Jason & Robin Starnes Luther Lyerly - Manager Salisbury

704-640-5875 • kim-4sfarms@carolina.rr.com

GENTRY HOMEPLACE ANGUS

Howard & Donna Gentry King 336-413-6698 • whgentry@windstream.net

GRAGG FARMS

Paul, Chris & David Gragg Boone 828-268-4136 (Paul); 828-268-4137 (Chris) 828-268-4135 (David) gragg_farms@hotmail.com

H&H FARMS

Buddy & Jennifer Hamrick - Owners Bly Hamrick - Manager Boiling Springs 704-472-1912 • jennham@bellsouth.net

HI-LO FARMS, LLC

William “Monty” & Kate Reichert Fuquay-Varina 919-717-1903

HILL ANGUS FARM

Dr. Gary M. Hill Hendersonville 229-848-3695 • gmhill@uga.edu

Cortney Holshouser

NCAA Executive Secretary

919-796-2346 ncaa.sec@gmail.com www.ncangus.org

JACK KNOB FARMS

Karl, Janet & Logan Gillespie Franklin

828-371-2220 • karl@jackknobfarms.com www.jackknobfarms.com

JENKINS ANGUS FARM

Jaime & Christy Jenkins Marshall

828-206-1345 • jenkinsangusfarm@gmail.com

KNOLL CREST FARM

The Bennett Family Red House, VA 434-376-3567 • knollcrestfarm@knollcrestfarm.com www.knollcrestfarm.com

LANE ANGUS Roger & Bundy Lane Bundy Lane - Manager Gates 252-398-7705 (Bundy); 252-398-7719 (Miranda) 252-357-1279 (Office) bundylane@hughes.net; laneangusbeef@gmail.com www.laneangusbeef.com

N.C. State University - E. Carroll Joyner Beef Unit Matt Morrison - Manager Raleigh 716-720-0227 • mdmorri8@ncsu.edu

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 Louisburg

919-880-9062 • philgoodson2@gmail.com www.springfieldangus.com

TRIPLE LLL ANGUS Greg Little Monroe

704-219-1294 • greg.little@atimetals.com

VANDEMARK ANGUS

Keaton & Janie Vandemark Spring Hope 252-885-0210 • keaton@vandemarkfarms.com

WINDY HILL FARMS, LLC

Michael A. Moss Will Moss - Manager Ramseur 336-460-7451 • windyhillfarmsllc@gmail.com

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

Maddie Grace has been very active in the National Junior Angus Association and its leadership conferences.

Maddie Grace showing a heifer at the N.C. State Fair.

ANGUS NEWS

Retallick-Riley talks Bovine Congestive Heart Failure at 2024 CattleCon. National Cattlemen’s Beef Association hosted AGI president Kelli Retallick-Riley to speak about research on cattle heart health at annual convention. Cattle feeders who lose livestock to Bovine Congestive Heart Failure (BCHF) know the impact of the disease firsthand. Ready to hear about the latest research on BCHF, feeders, and other industry professionals attended a Cattlemen’s College session presented by Kelli Retallick-Riley, president of Angus Genetics Inc. (AGI). The session took place on February 1 at the 2024 National Cattlemen’s Beef Association’s annual convention and trade show in Orlando, Florida.

While not a veterinarian, RetallickRiley excels in the field of quantitative genetics and is interested in finding ways to combat BCHF from a genetic perspective. She said research, so far, shows heart health (based on heart scores)

is heritable, giving her and her team hope that genetic tools can be developed to reduce the risk of the disease in cattle.

Retallick-Riley said she also knows there are other elements outside of genetics, like management practices and the health of other organs, to be considered.

“Because of its low incidence rate, only evaluating cattle dying from the disease is too limiting,” she said.

Recent research has focused on identifying animals more prone to BCHF. At the same time, the frequency of the disease has been increasing. She said this increase could mean either there really are more cases of BCHF occurring; the industry is getting better at diagnosing it, or a combination of the two factors. Ultimately, the direct cause or causes of BCHF are not yet understood.

Besides the obvious loss of life, what is particularly painful about BCHF is the cattle dying of it inflict a larger economic

impact than those lost at earlier stages in life. According to the feedlot studies referenced by Retallick-Riley, affected cattle were dying of BCHF at an average of 110 days on feed, with individual deaths taking place at points across a large swath of the feeding phase.

She shared a few other known pieces to the disease’s puzzle, including a connection to respiratory health.

“When animals were culled and treated for [acute interstitial pneumonia (AIP)], they had a higher probability or a higher rate of succumbing to bovine congestive heart failure,” she said.

Researchers have also studied cattle in the complex disease category, meaning they have been treated for at least one other disease. Retallick-Riley said of these cattle, “They also had a higher probability or a higher rate of being called a heart disease death.”

Without complete information on animals’ health, it is difficult to know if some of these were misdiagnosed and treated for AIP or complex diseases without any advantage.

When looking at beef type cattle, beef x dairy type, versus dairy type cattle and their crosses, she said there are similar ratios, for instance, of disease. Across the board, she and research partners are seeing high to modest genetic correlations between heart scores and performance traits, including hot carcass weight, with little to no correlation to marbling score in a study presented by Colorado State University.

Looking more at the prevalence of BCHF, from 2017-2019, “less than 1 percent of cattle placed on feed were dying of this disease,” Retallick-Riley said, and the call to research the disease came about as a grassroots effort among producers.

A consistent theme since that time, as with most research efforts, is the need for quality data.

Relying on records from producers and researchers alike – heart scores, genetic testing, and phenotypic data –all continue to be important for better understanding BCHF.

“Animals that are dying of congestive heart failure deaths, those

are the ones that never make it to the processing plant,” Retallick-Riley said. “That also means that good data recording in the field is crucial as well.”

When looking at heart scores in particular, preliminary results of current research efforts show a 23 percent incidence rate of BCHF when hearts score as a 3 or 4. As a reminder, there are no 5s at the packer in the recent data collected by AGI because those hearts have already given out under the pressure of the disease.

When studying this disease, Retallick-Riley said she tries to think of the whole animal as a system rather than just focusing on the heart.

“Heart score genetic tools could potentially help us reduce the caseload, but I doubt that it’s going to eliminate the disease entirely,” Retallick-Riley said. “Colorado State’s research has preliminary heritability estimates of about 0.28. What about the other 72 percent?”

She said, “If we put direct selection process on heart score alone, we could create cattle with less heart remodeling. We may also decrease the carcass weight on these cattle based on initial reports.”

Retallick-Riley said her team at AGI and partners on the project have thought about developing some type of multi-trait index, but more research is needed to identify the best tools for widespread use.

“One of the things that we need to continue to think about is how we’re going to use this at the end of the road, how we’re going to use this to impact production and selection decisions,” she said.

For more information on BCHF and related research efforts, visit bit.ly/BCHFWorkContinues.

Angus Foundation highlights successes at January Events. The Angus Foundation started the year with strong support for its mission, raising over $150,000 through the sales of donated lots at Cattlemen’s Congress and the National Western Stock Show. The lots were sold in Oklahoma City at the Bases Loaded Sale and in Denver at the Foundation Angus Sale at the National Western Stock Show. Money raised benefits the Angus

Fund, which provides unrestricted funding for Angus education, youth, and research.

The lots were generously donated by Four Sons Farm, Yon Family Farms, and Sadler Ranches. Lathrop Livestock Services donated complimentary trucking of all the lots.

“Those who supported our donated lots weren’t just investing in elite genetics — they were also investing in the future of our breed,” said Jaclyn Boester, Angus Foundation executive director. “We’re thankful to this set of donors and buyers for their commitment to the Angus legacy, as well as the sale management companies who included the lots in their sales.”

The Angus Fund sustains various programs, including academic scholarships, leadership conferences, and cutting edge research to enhance the breed’s future. To learn more about the Angus Foundation, visit www.AngusFoundation.org

Angus Foundation scholarship applications open now. Youth can apply for Angus Foundation scholarships until May 1. Scholarship applications are now available for college students involved with the Angus breed. The Angus Foundation awarded more than $358,000 in scholarships in 2023 alone. The Foundation offers scholarships to undergraduate, graduate, and trade school students each year to help Angus youth achieve their educational goals and offset the rising costs of tuition. Applications are due May 1.

“The Angus Foundation’s scholarship program is one of the most prominent and consistent ways our donors support Angus youth,” said Jaclyn Boester, Angus Foundation executive director. “Our scholarships pave the way for a bright future for our industry by ensuring young people have the opportunity to reach their full potential.”

The Angus Foundation undergraduate and graduate scholarship applications are available to National Junior Angus Association (NJAA) members through their American Angus Association login, similar to the National Junior Recognition Program Bronze and Silver award applications. The Foundation’s Certified Angus Beef/ National Junior Angus Association and commercial cattlemen scholarships will still be accessed at AngusFoundation.org and submitted through email.

“Angus Foundation scholarships have provided incredible support as I have furthered my education,” said Marcie Harward, National Junior Angus Board Foundation director and past scholarship recipient. “I’m grateful for my involvement in the Angus breed and its investment in the success of juniors like me.”

Since 1998, the Angus Foundation has awarded more than $4.5 million in undergraduate and graduate scholarships. For more information about the Angus Foundation and its scholarship program, visit AngusFoundation.org

Undergraduate and Graduate Scholarships - Applicants for undergraduate and graduate scholarships must have, at one time, been a member of the NJAA and currently be an active junior, regular, or life member of the American Angus Association. The following documents are required to be considered for a 2024 undergraduate or graduate scholarship: the 2024 scholarship application, three letters of recommendation, a copy of current high school/college/university transcript, and the applicant’s Association member code.

Access to Applicationwww.angusonline.org/Account/Login, “Programs” tab

Submission - Through AAA login

Certified Angus Beef/National Junior Angus Association Scholarship

- Since 1990, the NJAA has teamed up with Certified Angus Beef (CAB) to help Angus youth pursue their higher education goals. The selected applicant will receive a $1,500 scholarship. A separate application from the Angus Foundation scholarship application is required for the CAB/NJAA scholarship.

Access to Applicationwww.AngusFoundation.org

Submission - scholarships@angus.org

Commercial Cattlemen Scholarship

- The Angus Foundation will award four $1,500 scholarships to undergraduate students who use Angus genetics in a commercial cattle operation’s breeding program or whose parents use Angus genetics. Emphasis will be placed on applicants’ knowledge of the cattle industry and perspective of the Angus breed. The applicant or their parent/ guardian must have transferred or been transferred an Angus registration paper in the last 36 months (on or after May 1, 2021) and must be considered commercial and not seedstock in their operation. The scholarship applies to any field of study.

Access to Applicationwww.AngusFoundation.org

Submission - scholarships@angus.org

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 $4.2 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 816383-5100.

Angus Means Business. The American Angus Association is the nation’s largest beef breed organization, serving more than 22,000 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

Carolina Cooking

Indian Beef Shepherd’s Pie

Total Time - 50 minutes

1 pound ground beef (93% lean or leaner)

1 head cauliflower, cut into florets and stem pieces

1 teaspoon salt, divided

¼ teaspoon turmeric

1½ teaspoons ground ginger

1½ teaspoons garam masala

2 medium tomatoes, seeded, diced (about 1½ cups)

½ cup frozen peas

1 medium lemon, sliced into wedges

Place the cauliflower in a large saucepan. Cover with water; bring to a boil. Cook for 10 minutes or until very tender. Reserve ¼ cup of the cooking liquid. Drain cauliflower and return to pot. Mash cauliflower with potato masher until slightly chunky. Stir in reserved ¼ cup cooking liquid, 1 tablespoon at a time to moisten. Season with ¾ teaspoon of salt and turmeric.

Meanwhile, heat a large ovenproof nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add ginger and garam masala; cooking until spices are fragrant, about one minute. Add ground beef and tomatoes, cook 8-10 minutes, breaking into ½ inch crumbles and stirring occasionally. Pour off drippings as necessary. Season with remaining ¼ teaspoon of salt. Remove from heat and stir in peas.

Cook’s Tip: Cooking times are for fresh or thoroughly thawed ground beef. Ground beef should be cooked to an internal

temperature of 160°F. Color is not a reliable indicator of ground beef doneness.

Preheat the broiler to high. Spread beef mixture in an even layer in a skillet. Spread the cauliflower mixture evenly over the beef mixture. Place skillet on oven rack so surface of cauliflower is 3-4 inches from heat. Broil for 12-15 minutes or until the cauliflower is golden brown. Cool slightly. Serve with lemon wedges. Makes 4 servings.

Ashley’s Beef Corner T

Reaching Out

By ASHLEY W. HERRING Director of Consumer Information N.C. Cattlemen’s Beef Council

The Southern Farm Show is the annual event that brings together farmers of all commodities from all parts of the state and our neighboring states. FFA members also enjoy experiencing the show. The age differences in attendees are broad, with several more seasoned alongside their grandchildren at the event.

This year, our booth was staffed with help from N.C. Beef Ambassadors. It is always a treat to observe young people who are particularly passionate about the beef industry interact. Their composure, knowledge, and ability to communicate their knowledge is incredible to watch and I always learn something.

It is a lot more fun to have perspectives from young people as well. Their take on events and happenings is good to hear, especially as most of us have gotten into a routine over the years. Our farm show focus tends to be on membership renewal and sharing information about the N.C. Cattle Conference.

Beef Ambassadors Lydia Hill, Maddie Carpenter, and Mazie Bunn made the extra effort to attend the event and help advocate for the beef industry. I’m

truly thankful for their assistance. We also had help from partner organizations to help promote the N.C. Forage & Grasslands Council events. Special thanks to Darren Layton and Brad Moore who are with the Council.

Indian Beef Shepherd’s Pie

By DR. MATT POORE N.C. State University

Harnessing the Power of Electric FencesPart

2 — Lightning Protection

Last month, I started this series of articles on electric fence systems by discussing energizers and grounding systems. Those two components are the heart and soul of your electric fence. However, almost equally important is the lightning protection system. While it is impossible to completely eliminate the possibility of lightning damage, there are a number of steps you can take to reduce the frequency and severity of lightning damage. It is always a good practice to unplug the energizer from the power source and flip the main switch, cutting the energizer off from the fence when you know a major thunderstorm is approaching. However, that is often not possible, so the fence needs to be constructed in a way that it can survive a local severe thunderstorm.

Lightning is a very high voltage discharge of electricity, most commonly created by violent air conditions inside a thunderstorm. There are three major types of lightning: within-cloud, cloud-to-cloud, and cloud-to-ground. Within-cloud and cloud-to-cloud lightning are beautiful to watch and cause few if any, surges that affect your electric fence. Cloud-to-ground lightning, on the other hand, can cause severe damage to your fence system.

As I discussed last month, it is very critical to the proper functioning of an electric fence to have a good ground system. The problem with lightning is that what it really wants is to find a good ground to discharge on, and if your fence ground system is the best ground around, the lightning can make its way through your energizer on the way to the ground system, and the massive power surge can destroy your energizer. It is critical to the functioning of the fence that you have a good ground system, but that very fact makes it even more important that you understand how to build an effective lightning protection system.

Lightning protection in the energizer - Energizers are built with

some level of lightning protection. Some of them will have fuses that blow when there is a lightning strike, while many of the newer chargers have either external or internal lightning protection modules that buffer the energizer from the surges and that take the bulk of the damage if it does occur. As energizers have evolved, the internal lightning protection system has been improved dramatically. Many new energizers carry a three year lightning warranty, which tells me the technology must be getting better. Regardless of how the built-in lightning protection system in the energizer is set up, it is very important for you to take additional steps to protect your system from lightning.

Sources of lightning damageTwo potential sources of the damaging power surge caused by lightning are the fence side and the power side. It is important when you are setting up and troubleshooting the fence system that you understand the two sources and how to protect against each.

Protecting against surges from the fence side - When lightning strikes the fence, it will send a power surge down the wire and travel the fence looking for a good ground. It will run through the hot wire all the way to the energizer, through the energizer, and to the ground system. If the strength of the surge is small, the lightning protection system in the energizer might resist any damage or may be damaged, leaving the rest of the energizer undamaged. However, if the surge is sufficiently strong, it can damage the energizer beyond the lightning protection system. Controlling this flow of stray voltage on the fence side is best accomplished by providing a “spark gap” that the lightning can jump across and travel to the ground before it gets to the energizer. The ground side of the spark gap is connected to a ground system either along the fence or somewhere between the main connection to the fence and the energizer. This ground side of the

spark gap can be hooked to a separate ground system that is at least as good as the energizer ground system, or it can be hooked into the energizer ground.

There are a variety of “spark gap” protectors on the market, with the most common type used being a porcelain unit with the gap inside the porcelain structure. The biggest drawback to these “porcelain lightning arresters” is that if they take a major lightning hit, they can be internally damaged, making them look okay but also making them ineffective in subsequent strikes, leaving you completely unprotected. An option for the porcelain lightning diverter is a see-through adjustable lightning diverter. The added advantage of this type of unit is that it can be adjusted to the power of the individual energizer. To adjust them, you disconnect the main switch to the fence (which should be beyond the spark gap) and adjust the gap just to the point where it will not arc the fence’s charge across the gap.

Another alternative to commercial lightning diverters is a homemade spark gap. It is easy to make one of these yourself by stripping a section of insulated lead-out wire leading from the fence to the energizer and stripping a section of similar lead-out wire that is attached to the lightning protection ground system. An example of a simple homemade spark gap is shown in photo 1, and a sketch is in Figure 1. Note that the wire to the ground side of the spark gap is not bent but rather travels straight to the ground connection, while the side that travels onto the energizer has a 90º bend in it. Lightning likes to travel straight lines, so this arrangement will help encourage the lightning to cross the gap and travel to the ground.

A homemade spark gap like the one shown would be best affixed to a wooden post where the lead-out wire connects to the fence via a main switch. It is also possible to put the spark gap in the building near the charger, but be aware that you should have some kind of nonflammable backing behind the gap, or the massive arc that could occur might start a fire. To set the gap, flip the switch to the fence system; start with a small gap between the two spark gap wires, and slowly spread the gap using a screwdriver (with a well insulated handle!) just until it stops arcing.

Another common fence side lightning protection system component is an induction coil (sometimes called a lightning choke or lightning break). The induction coil is a coil of wire, usually made up of the lead-out wire that is about 30-40 feet long and just coiled like a rope, or sometimes with approximately 8-12 inch coils spaced about 1 inch apart

using PVC pipe, drilled fiberglass posts, or some other way of holding them apart. When electricity travels that circular path, it creates an induction field that resists the flow of electricity. There was a time when this was considered a major and indispensible part of the lightning protection system, but with a good, well made spark gap/diverter, the induction coil is less important. Still, it is not a bad idea (and inexpensive) to install a coil in the lead-out line between the spark gap and the energizer. Lightning doesn’t like to go around and around like it has to in the coil, which also encourages more of the surge to jump the spark gap and go to the ground before it can reach the energizer.

Protecting against surges from the power side - Quite frequently, the cause of lightning damage is a power surge that

Figure 1. Diagram of a lightning protection spark gap (Illustration by Dr. Sharon Freeman).

comes in on the power side. This happens because lightning can strike power lines, and the surge can travel a long distance looking for a convenient ground. There are grounds installed along the main line at each place an individual service is hooked in. If you look at the location where power enters your property, you will see a transformer and a large copper wire coming down the pole and going to a ground rod. The purpose of this ground is to keep a power surge that is traveling down the main line from entering your

service and potentially damaging all your electronics. That ground is the responsibility of the power company.

Further along, where the electric line enters your meter and main breaker box, there will be another ground. This ground is there to further protect your service from power surges coming down the main line that are not fully absorbed by the initial ground system and to provide protection from electrical shocks that can occur in a poorly grounded home or barn. That service ground is your responsibility.

Power surges on the service side are common on farms because we often are at the end of a long line that only serves our farm, and as a result, a strike on that line will lead to a major power surge that is not dissipated by the many ground systems found where services are more densely located.

When lightning strikes the main power line, it travels along, looking for ground. If the power company’s ground is poor, some of the surges will skip that system and travel onto your service ground. If your service ground is inadequate, the surge can keep traveling through your electrical system, looking for a better ground, which could be something like your well or your energizer ground system. Again, the only downside to having a really good ground system on your energizer is that those surges on the power side will seek it out.

It is important to your system to periodically have both ground systems on the electrical service checked to ensure they are adequate before thunderstorms develop. In some cases of lightning damage to energizers, a careful evaluation of the system shows that the service grounds are inadequate. It will also help to get a surge protector to plug the

energizer into, which will further protect from power surges.

Despite all our efforts, a massive local lightning strike will eventually damage your energizer. When that happens, the first thing to do is to rapidly hook up a backup energizer. If you don’t have a backup energizer, then you will have to purchase one. It may be an opportunity to upgrade your energizer and use the damaged unit as the backup after it is repaired. Regardless, make sure you buy enough power to energize your system. One way or the other, you eventually will end up with a backup energizer, and you will be glad if it has adequate power and you keep it in repair and ready to go into action. It is actually a very important part of your lightning management system.

With thunderstorm season coming, it is a good time of year to check on your lightning protection system, adjust the spark gap, check the ground system, and be prepared to react if damage does occur. Next month, I will tackle the topic of the permanent perimeter fence. For now, go out there and do your best to improve your grazing management.

A lightning protection spark gap made from insulated lead-out cable. Insert shows a close up of the spark gap.

By DUNCAN LLOYD McSORLEY N.C. State University -- ANS 402 Beef Management

Cattle as the Climate Solution

— Carbon Sequestration in Pasture Systems

Climate change has been one of the most talked about issues of our generation, and greenhouse gasses produced by human activity are at the center of that conversation. Carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide gasses emitted into the atmosphere primarily through the burning of fossil fuels have a warming effect that many scientists believe has contributed to an increase in global average temperatures over the last 250 years (Sundquist, 2008). However, in more recent decades, the media has drawn attention to the agriculture industry as a main contributor to the emission of these greenhouse gasses, especially in cattle production. The conversation surrounding animal agriculture’s climate impact is much more complicated than many media platforms and environmental organizations have made it out to be. In fact, well managed and even native pastures could help offset significant carbon emissions in the United States and globally.

Carbon sequestration in grassland and pasture systems is an emerging conversation in the agriculture industry as more research

comes out to support the idea that animal agriculture isn’t a main part of the problem of climate change but is rather a part of the potential set of solutions (Silveira, 2018) Carbon sequestration is the process by which plants pull carbon dioxide out of the atmosphere and convert it into structural carbon in their tissue via photosynthesis (Silveira, 2018). Carbon is then transferred from the plant into the soil when leaves fall off, the plant dies, and/or via the root system. While this carbon dioxide is pulled from the atmosphere during photosynthesis, it is also released back by the plant during respiration (Sundquist, 2008) . Carbon sequestration refers to the difference in the amount of carbon between what is pulled out of the atmosphere and what is emitted back (BCRC, 2021)

Carbon in the soil is primarily in the form of organic matter, and soil serves as one of the largest sinks of carbon on the planet (Sundquist, 2008). Soil organic matter plays a huge role in the health of the soil and its ability to hold and filter water, support soil structure, and maintain productive agricultural systems (Silveira,

2018) . Because grasses have up to 90 percent of their biomass beneath the ground in the form of roots, there is already an even greater potential in these systems for carbon storage in the soil compared to other natural systems like forests, where much of the plant’s biomass is above ground and at risk of being released due to fire (Kerlin, 2018). Grasses also store carbon at great depths where it can be held for centuries. The unit of measurement for carbon

E.B.'s ViEw from thE Cow PasturE

By E.B. HARRIS

Legalize What?

I get my hair cut about five miles away from the house. The lady who cuts it is Andree Nelms Foster. She was raised right across the road from where she and her husband, Rex, live now. I sent her a text that I would like to get my hair cut. Her husband answered her phone. He said Andree is having some surgery and will be out of commission, but check with her in a few weeks.

I waited a few weeks and then checked back in with Andree. She said she was back at work. We set up a time for me to come get a haircut. I went over for the haircut, sat down in the chair, and asked how she was doing. She said the surgery went along really well. The surgeon had told her if the surgery were easy, it would take 30 minutes; if it were so-so, it would take about 45 minutes; and if it was difficult, it could take an hour. She said within 25 minutes, he was back in the room talking to her husband and said it was almost a cake. It went along very well.

She said she had not had any side effects other than occasionally she had had a little nausea problem but got over it. I went on to tell her that, as a child, if

sequestration used in Table 1 is Megatonnes (1 million metric tons) per hectare. Carbon sequestration levels are often expressed as the total weight of CO2 over the area of land in which that amount of carbon dioxide is sequestered (Follett et al., 2005) Carbon sequestration is a natural process and is a part of the global carbon cycle, as seen in Figure 1. It is a process that can be enhanced with improved livestock grazing management. Implementing certain

we were nauseous, had a toothache, or another sickness, the fix all mama would give us was a touch paregoric mixed with water and sugar or ginger ale or 7-Up. She said her mama did the same thing.

She then told me that her daddy had a paregoric bush planted out behind the house. I told her I never knew it was such a thing. She said he got it from somewhere and planted it behind the house. She said if they needed some paregoric, they would go out there and cut off a piece and chew. She said the groundhog was chewing on it and got drunk. She said her daddy had a good chance to shoot the groundhog while he was under the influence.

I got to thinking about what she was saying. You could not buy it without a prescription, and now it has been taken off the market. She said I think you are right, and it looks like they are going to legalize marijuana and do away with something that helped us as children.

If anybody has a paregoric bush, you might want to guard it well and close and not tell anyone what you have. They may want to come confiscate it.

Table 1. Average weight of soil organic carbon (Mt/ha) at varying depths across 14 locations in 9 Great Plains States (Follett & Schuman, 2005).

Figure 1. Carbon dioxide and methane cycles, including carbon sequestration. (Beef Cattle Research Council, 2021)

strategies can have a profound impact on helping mitigate the negative impacts of human caused climate change.

Within pasture systems, the cycling of carbon is highly dependent on a variety of factors, including climate, soil type, vegetation type, animal species, grazing duration, and grazing intensity (Whitehead, 2020) . The best way to increase carbon sequestration is to maximize the amount of plant biomass that is below ground while minimizing the amount of disturbance the soil undergoes. Fertilization of pastures, increasing species diversity, including legumes in forage mixes, irrigation, and reduced cultivation all contribute to increasing soil carbon stocks (Whitehead, 2020). Increasing grazing intensity over a short period and allowing that area to rest for an extended period afterward also stimulates plant growth in a manner that increases photosynthesis and carbon sequestration (Whitehead, 2020). Overgrazing can pose

a big issue in the possibility of releasing stored soil carbon by exposing and disturbing the soil. It is best to avoid grazing in the same area for an extended period and better to utilize a rotational method like what is described above. Plant and soil systems are dynamic, and the extent to which carbon is sequestered, stored, and released is highly variable and can be difficult to measure. However, specifically managing carbon sequestration in these systems with some of the strategies mentioned above will result in other benefits like an extended grazing season, better plant and animal nutrition, and improved animal health and performance (Whitehead, 2020)

Native and managed grasslands take up a huge amount (about ⅓) of the land area in the United States, indicating a huge amount of potential for improved management aimed toward carbon sequestration. Some studies show that the United States grazing lands could

sequester 30-110 million metric tons of carbon annually (Silveira, 2018) . In comparison, the United States’ annual carbon emissions from human activity are estimated to be at around 1.6 gigatonnes (billion metric tons) (Sundquist, 2008) These estimates indicate that the United States grazing lands could have the potential to offset up to nearly 7 percent of annual carbon emissions just through improved grazing. Grazing management is a powerful tool in combatting climate change. Animal agriculture systems that utilize grazing lands should be recognized as a real part of the solution to the complex societal issue of climate change instead of falsely demonized for their supposed negative role as a main contributor to it.

References

Beef Cattle Research Council. “Beef Cattle & The Carbon Cycle – A New Webpage.” (2021) www.beefresearch.ca

Follett, R. & Schuman, G. “Grazing

Land Contributions to Carbon Sequestration.” (2005) www.uknowledge.uky.edu

Kerlin, K. “Grasslands More Reliable Carbon Sink Than Trees.” (2018) www.climatechange.ucdavis.edu

Silveira, M. & Hanlon, E. “Carbon Sequestration in Grazing Land Ecosystems.” (2018) www.edis.ifas.ufl.edu

Sundquist, E. “Carbon Sequestration to Mitigate Climate Change.” (2008) www.pubs.usgs.gov

Whitehead, D. “Management of Grazed Landscapes to Increase Soil Carbon Stocks in Temperate, Dryland Grasslands.” (2020) www.frontiersin.org

Have You Herd Article written as a portion of ANS 402 Beef Management course requirement at N.C. State University Department of Animal Science under the instruction of Dr. Carrie Pickworth. The opinions of Duncan Lloyd McSorley are not necessarily those of N.C. State University or Dr. Carrie Pickworth.

N.C. Forage Educational Corner

Silvopastures — A (North) Carolina Perspective

By MIGUEL S. CASTILLO N.C. State University

Ecosystem services provided by silvopastoral systems are mediated by specific management practices, environmental conditions, and overall design of the system.

What is a silvopasture? Silvopasture is a type of agroforestry system with the potential to deliver multiple outputs. Silvopastures are characterized by the intentional integration and management of trees, forages, and livestock. Silvopastures have been broadly accepted as an integrated approach to sustainable land management with the potential to enhance ecosystem services in a multifunctional working space while providing options to mitigate and adapt to climate change. In addition, silvopastures can help diversify farm income (Chizmar et al., 2020); for example, while grazing livestock can generate annual income, tree crops and products (e.g., nuts) could also provide short or longer term economic output of the farm.

The intentional integration of trees and forages has been practiced in different parts of the world for decades or even centuries (Cubbage et al., 2012) In the U.S., this practice is most typically associated with pine systems in the Southeast coastal plain, but the practice is used in the Pacific Northwest under spruce as well as in hardwood growing regions of the country.

Silvopasture is not turning livestock loose in the woods. In fact, silvopasture

can be considered a system requiring more intensive management, where the different components (i.e., livestock, trees, forages) and their interactions need to be accounted for and managed. For example, the arrangement of trees in the landscape is a key influential feature of silvopastures (Figure 1).

Silvopastures can be successfully established and managed by planting trees and forages at the same time, by planting trees into existing pastures, or by thinning existing tree stands and planting forages. If the goal is to keep a productive foragelivestock enterprise over the length of the rotation, lower tree densities are needed. This will require greater efforts to protect, prune, and thin the tree stand, but this intensive management has a positive trade off in production of higher value logs.

Additional factors in thinning decisions include debris management, pruning requirements, and tree crop production.

The potential of silvopastures to deliver ecosystem services is directly related to the interaction of its components within a specific environment. Consequently, synergies and tradeoffs are influenced by specific management decisions and the selection of the components. For example, in the “tall fescue” belt U.S. region, the understory forage component of a system with pines as the tree component could be either a warm or a cool season forage (Figure 2).

What are the effects of trees

on understory forage productivity, microclimate, and livestock responses?

For many, trees will first be part of an animal comfort strategy – to relieve heat stress in summer or to provide windbreaks and shelter in winter – or as secondary feed sources (i.e., leguminous trees). Others may be as interested in tree products, whether marketed as commodities (e.g., pine straw or greenery, nuts or fruits) or value added goods (e.g., wreaths, ciders, acorn fattened or apple fattened hogs). Because no tree species will meet all these criteria, selection should be a “best match” with the producer’s goals and resources.

The presence of trees in the landscape may result in competition for nutrients, water, light, and sometimes allelopathy to the companion forage species; hence, competition between tree growth and forage growth must be carefully managed. Some tree species have physical characteristics such as deep rooting habit, late leaf out and early leaf drop, and an open narrow crown. Forages can be annual or perennial, cool or warm season. However, pasture production might not be reduced when trees and forages are efficiently integrated into silvopasture systems.

In terms of livestock responses, trees in the silvopasture potentially affect microclimate, mitigating heat stress for grazing livestock, specifically through shifts in understory air, temperature, humidity, and provision of shade and shelter for livestock. However, the effects are variable depending on the components

of the silvopasture; in addition, in a given silvopasture, the interactions among specific components can change over time as tree growth accumulates over time. Increased weight gain, milk yield, and conception rates have been reported for cattle or sheep grazing pastures with trees in warm environments.

The temperature-humidity index (THI), an index that combines air temperature (°F) and relative humidity (%), has been historically used as a measure of thermal comfort for livestock. Dairy livestock productivity may be affected when a THI threshold of 72 is reached (Igono et al., 1992; Ravagnolo et al., 2000) , resulting in economic losses (St-Pierre et al., 2003); however, the threshold varies by type of livestock (Nardone et al., 2006) and exposure time (West, 2002) . In the southeastern U.S., THI ≥ 72 could potentially be reached for at least about a third of the year (~100150 days). A thorough accounting of heat stress would require weather information from the farm (as opposed to regional weather stations), thus accounting for the length and strength of the heat period and information on the existence and use of heat management measures (Ravagnolo et al., 2000) . This information is of particular importance to capture the potential benefits of silvopastoral systems in the Southeast United States.

Forage productivity, light environment, and microclimate in a North Carolina silvopasture - Forage accumulation, forage nutritive value,

Figure 1. Examples of possible spatial arrangement of trees in the landscape for silvopastures.

Figure 2. Two common silvopastures in North Carolina are pine as the tree component and native grasses or tall fescue as the forage component. Pictures were taken in Goldsboro and Burgaw, N.C.

and microclimate were measured in a silvopasture located in Goldsboro, North Carolina. As a reference, the trees were established in 2007 with an alley cropping design (Cubbage et al., 2012) . The three tree species were: Pinus palustris (PP; longleaf pine), Pinus taeda (PT; lobloblly pine), and Quercus pagoda (QP; cherrybark oak); the two alley widths were: 40 and 80 ft between lines of trees. Each tree line consisted of three rows of trees planted in a triangular spacing with the distance between trees of 6 ft in each row and 6 ft between tree rows (Figure 3). The forage component consists of a four way mixture of native warm season grasses. The grasses were big bluestem

( Andropogon gerardii , ‘Eastern,’ Kentucky origin), gamagrass (Tripsacum dactyloides, Missouri origin), indiangrass ( Sorghastrum nutants , ‘North Carolina ecotype’), and switchgrass ( Panicum virgatum, ‘Alamo’) were planted in the summer of 2014 (Castillo et al., 2020)

Tree heights, as of 2018, were 97 ft PT, 64 ft for PP, and 50 ft for QP. Diameter at breast height was 7.8, 5.9, and 4 inches for PT, PP, and QP, respectively.

Forage Productivity and Nutritive Value - With the exception of the 3.5m south sampling location (Figure 4), we did not detect differences in forage accumulation due to tree species at the other sampling locations. Forage accumulation

ranged from 4.3 to 5 tons/acre. Nutritive value estimates of TDN and CP were similar in the three tree-species systems. Concentrations of TDN and CP ranged from 54.3-59.3 and 5.0-7.7 percent, respectively. According to the National Research Council (NRC) (1996), the CP concentration needed to meet the requirements of a nonpregnant, non-lactating mature cow is 8.9 percent. In this case, the low CP and TDN concentrations are due to the harvesting schedule that consisted of two clippings per

year (at mid- and end-season). If the forage was grazed, defoliation should be started earlier in the season, not allowing the forage to mature, resulting in greater nutritive value estimates.

Light Environment - For the Goldsboro site, the light environment was greatest at the center of the alley, and it was lower and varied as a function

Continued on the next page

Figure 3. Silvopasture in Goldsboro, N.C.

Figure 5. Understory light environment (% incident photosynthetic active radiation, PAR) as a function of tree, sampling location, and season of the year at the silvopasture in Goldsboro, N.C. (Figure 3).

Figure 4. Forage accumulation of the native warm season grass mixture by sampling location at the silvopasture in Goldsboro, N.C.

N.C Forage Educational Corner continued from the previous page

of the season of the year at the 0-m north and 0-m south locations. The average maximum daily solar radiation per month measured at solar noon ranged from 492-1,152 W/m2, with the lower values occurring in winter (between November and February). Understory light environment [measured as relative photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) around noon] ranged from 6.3–99 percent (Figure 5). At the center of the alleys, light environment was ≥ 90 percent for all tree species across sampling seasons (winter and summer). In contrast, at sampling locations 0-m north and 0-m south, the understory light environment during summer was ≤ 15 percent for all tree species; however, during winter, the understory light environment was greater for QP (approximately 67 percent of incident PAR) compared to PP and PT (approximately 47 percent of incident

Greatest mitigation values were +0.5 points at night and -1 point during the day.

Although temperature, relative humidity, and THI had relatively moderate mitigation effects, the presence of shade (Figure 5) available to grazing livestock should still be considered significant in grazing systems in the Southeastern United States. Absorption of heat from incoming solar radiation by livestock should be considered in addition to ambient air temperature. Other measures of heat stress are needed to fully characterize this phenomenon, with the ultimate effects on animal responses measured for a specific type and breed of livestock.

The effects of heat stress on livestock and the benefits of providing shade manifest in multiple physiological, metabolic, reproductive, and behavioral responses, as reviewed by Blackshaw and Blackshaw (1994) and West (2003). Cows provided with shade have significantly lower respiration rates and core body temperature than cattle without shade in warm summer conditions (Sethi and Nagarcenkar, 1981; Blackshaw and Blackshaw, 1994). Utilization of shade by cattle increases as average solar radiation increases (Tucker et al., 2008), and it could reduce total heat load by 30–50 percent (Bond and Kelly, 1955; Bond et al., 1967) In a West Texas feedlot with artificial shade, Angus crossbred, and Charolais crossbred heifers reached their target body weight three weeks earlier compared to unshaded cattle (Mitlöhner et al., 2020)

https://doi.org/10.3390/land9100353

Cubbage, F., Balmelli, G., Bussoni, A., Noellemeyer, E., Pachas, A.N., Fassola, H., Colcombet, L., Rossner, B., Frey, G., Dube, F., de Silva, M.L., Stevenson, H., Hamilton, J., & Hubbard, W. (2012). Comparing silvopastoral systems and prospects in eight regions of the world. Agroforestry Systems, 86(3), 303–314. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10457-012-9482-z

Cubbage, F., Glenn, V., Mueller, J.P., Robison, D., Myers, R., Luginbuhl, J.M., & Myers, R. (2012). Early tree growth, crop yields, and estimated returns for an agroforestry trial in Goldsboro, North Carolina. Agroforestry Systems, 86(3), 323–334. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10457012-9481-0

Igono, M.O., Bjotvedt, G., & SanfordCrane, H.T. (1992). Environmental profile and critical temperature effects on milk production of Holstein cows in desert climate. International Journal of Biometeorology, 36(2), 77–87. https://doi. org/10.1007/BF01208917

Nardone, A., Ronchi, B., Lacetera, N., & Bernabucci, U. (2006). Climatic Effects on Productive Traits in Livestock. Veterinary Research Communications, 30(1), 75–81. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11259-006-0016-x

Ravagnolo, O., Misztal, I., & Hoogenboom, G. (2000). Genetic Component of Heat Stress in Dairy Cattle, Development of Heat Index Function. Journal of Dairy Science, 83(9), 2120–2125. https://doi. org/10.3168/jds.S0022-0302(00)75094-6

PAR). These results highlight the potential of this specific silvopastoral system design (i.e., alley cropping) to provide year-round areas of high and low light (or shade) environment to protect livestock from direct and indirect solar radiation.

Temperature Humidity Index (THI) -

In general, the THI in the open pasture (no trees) was greater during the day (Figure 6A). Daylong (day and night) temperature, relative humidity, and THI were greater during spring and summer months vs. fall and winter. The mitigation potential of trees to temperatures, relative humidity, and THI are presented in Figure 6B. The mitigation estimates are reported as the difference between the open pasture and under a specific tree in the corresponding time of day and year-month. There were no differences in THI mitigation among tree species, and mitigation values were greater during the summer months.

Take home messages - Management is integral to the success of silvopastures. A tacit challenge for silvopasture implementation of silvopastures is a willingness to manage complexity and think in time period scales, which tend not to be the common approach in the agricultural community. Silvopastures, however, offer great potential to increase productivity and diversify farm income through intentional integration of trees, forages, and livestock.

References

Castillo, M.S., Tiezzi, F., & Franzluebbers, A.J. (2020). Tree species effects on understory forage productivity and microclimate in a silvopasture of the Southeastern U.S.. Agriculture, Ecosystems & Environment, 295, 106917. https://doi. org/10.1016/j.agee.2020.106917

Chizmar, S., Castillo, M., Pizarro, D., Vasquez, H., Bernal, W., Rivera, R., Sills, E., Abt, R., Parajuli, R., & Cubbage, F. (2020). A Discounted Cash Flow and Capital Budgeting Analysis of Silvopastoral Systems in the Amazonas Region of Peru. Land, 9(10), Article 10.

St-Pierre, N.R., Cobanov, B., & Schnitkey, G. (2003). Economic Losses from Heat Stress by U.S. Livestock Industries1. Journal of Dairy Science, 86, E52–E77. https://doi.org/10.3168/jds. S0022-0302(03)74040-5

West, J.W. (2003). Effects of HeatStress on Production in Dairy Cattle. Journal of Dairy Science, 86(6), 2131–2144. https://doi.org/10.3168/jds.S00220302(03)73803-X

Figure 6. Temperature humidity index (THI) mitigation by tree species (QP = Quercus pagoda, PT = Pinus palustris, PT = Pinus taeda) as a function of time of day and month of the year in the silvopasture at Goldsboro, N.C.

By PHYLLIS B. GODWIN Chaplain, Cowboys for Christ

The Greatest Rescue Mission in the History of the World!

Ranch life is hard. No matter the circumstance, whether it is snowing, raining, or flooding – whether there is family tragedy or illness, ranch work and the care of your livestock and crops must go on. It’s a story of necessity and lovelove for your family and the life that you have created that continues 365 days a year, no matter the circumstances.

As our Jewish brothers and sisters prepare for Passover, just as they have for thousands of years, we likewise prepare for the celebration of Easter and remember the sacrifice, death, and resurrection of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Most are familiar with the Gospel that Almighty God sent His son, Jesus (God’s lamb), to die on the cross as the

final sin sacrifice so that mankind can have forgiveness of sins and direct access to Him. What we may not reflect on frequently is that during the torture and pain of his crucifixion, Jesus was still seeing to the needs of His sheep.

Throughout the agony and shame of His crucifixion:

1. He provided for the care of His mother. (John 19: 26-27)

2. When the thief on the cross recognized that Jesus was the sinless Son of God, Jesus assured him that he would be with Him that day in paradise. (Luke 23: 39-43)

3. Jesus asked His Father, Almighty God, to forgive those who were ranting against him. This would include the Roman guards and religious leaders. (Luke 23:34)

4. The crucifixion of Jesus was such a cataclysmic event with darkness, earthquakes, and opening graves (Matthew 27:51) that even the idol worshiping Roman soldiers proclaimed Him to be the Son of God. (Matthew 27:54)

5. In His last act of love on the cross, He shouted, “It is finished!” signifying to those who were present and us, thousands of years later, that God’s lamb sacrifice was complete. Jesus had paid the fine for all of mankind’s sins if they would only repent and believe. (John 19:30)

6. The temple veil (curtain) was torn in two: top to bottom. This was the curtain that separated the common man and the Holy of Holies where the Ark of the Covenant resided (only the temple High Priest was allowed to go behind the temple veil), ending the need for an earthly priest to be a mediator between man and God. At that moment, Jesus became our High Priest, and we can go directly to Him to ask for forgiveness when we sin and with our problems and requests. (Matthew 27:54)

What an astounding truth to realize that while Jesus was suffering

unimaginable pain, He was still tending to his sheep, and souls were being saved. He came on the greatest rescue mission in the history of the world!

Jesus paid the price for our sins. What does that mean?

Since Adam’s first sin, sin has separated us from God. (Romans 5:12)

God wishes to have fellowship with mankind. (John 14:23)

Jesus came to pay the price required of sin and to restore fellowship between God and man. (Romans 4:25)

We cannot save ourselves by doing good deeds. (Ephesians 2:9)

It is up to us individually to choose or reject eternal life in Christ, but it is His desire to have fellowship with you. (2 Peter 3:9)

God made it so simple that even a child can understand so that mankind has no excuse.

God’s word tells us that we must acknowledge our sinfulness, repent, and believe the Gospel: Jesus Christ is the Son of God who died on the cross to pay the price for our sins. He rose again on the third day, defeating death. (Mark 1:15)

“Today is the day of Salvation.” (2 Corinthians 6:2)

As we go about handling all the things that are necessary for running our ranches, farmsteads, and families, let’s consider our relationship with Almighty God through His Son, Jesus Christ. Have you repented, and do you believe the Gospel? If you’re not sure of your salvation or whether you believe, ask Him to reveal Himself to you. He can and will. Pray for our loved ones, our country, and those who still need to choose God’s grace and forgiveness. God’s Word tells us to pray without ceasing. Almighty God not only hears us when we are worshiping in church, but He hears us when we are tending crops, chasing cattle, sitting in the sales barn, and repairing machinery. He’d love to hear from you today.

You Decide!

By DR. MIKE WALDEN

William Neal Reynolds Distinguished Professor Emeritus N.C. State University

You Decide: Will the Fed Be Involved In Politics in 2024? This is a big political year for the country. More so than in other years, decisions having national ramifications will be scrutinized for their potential impacts on election outcomes. This means those making the decisions will have to consider how their choices are interpreted.

Without question, one institution that will be front and center in this situation will be the Federal Reserve, usually simply referred to as the Fed.

In its role as the country’s central bank, the Fed has important regulatory responsibilities. The Fed also serves as a backstop for troubled banks so depositors will be secure.

Yet perhaps the Fed’s most prominent role comes from the Congressional mandate for the Fed to use its influence over interest rates and cash availability to help create a “Goldilocks” economy of

both low unemployment and low inflation.

The last four years have shown the Fed flexing its muscles over the economy. During the pandemic years of 2020 and 2021, the Fed worked to lower unemployment — which had reached 14 percent — by pushing interest rates to historic lows and increasing the money supply by trillions. Then, when the inflation rate was headed to double digit rates in 2022, the Fed reversed course by raising interest rates and pulling cash out of the economy.

As 2024 begins, it appears the Fed is again in transition. The unemployment rate has remained low, and the annual inflation rate is near 3 percent, close to the Fed’s goal of 2 percent. The Fed has signaled it may be time to lower interest rates. However, there’s debate over how soon and how much.

Because this is a big political year, in some ways, the Fed is in a no-win situation. If the Fed aggressively cuts its key interest

rate, interest rates like mortgage rates, credit card rates, and other borrowing rates will likely follow. More people will be able to buy homes, vehicles, and other items, lifting consumer confidence and happiness. And, if people are more confident and happier, they may be more likely to reward incumbent politicians by voting for them. In reaction, opponents to the incumbents may cry foul, arguing the Fed’s interest rate cuts tipped the scales in favor of incumbents.

Conversely, if the Fed doesn’t reduce interest rates, or if it reduces rates very slowly, the opposite sentiments could emerge. Incumbents could conclude the Fed is prolonging consumers’ displeasure with high interest rates, and this unhappiness could be directed at incumbents in the voting booth. At the same time, opponents could try to link high interest rates to incumbents, giving opponents an electoral boost.

The Fed’s policies have been thrust into a presidential election campaign several times. In 1980, incumbent President Jimmy Carter was running for reelection. Inflation was a big issue, with the peak annual rate reaching 14 percent. In an effort to slow economic growth and moderate inflation, Fed Chair Paul Volcker increased the Fed’s key interest rate by ten percentage points in the second half of 1980. President Carter lost his reelection bid and partially blamed the Fed for his defeat.

A second example involves President

George H.W. Bush’s reelection bid in 1992 following a recession in 1990 and 1991. As the Fed usually does, it lowered interest rates to help the economy recover from the recession. Lowering of interest rates continued into 1992 but significantly slowed in the months immediately prior to the November election. Bush lost the election and, like Carter, publicly expressed his dismay with the Fed’s policy, implying that it contributed to his loss.

Perhaps the most famous example of the Fed’s potential role in an election is President Richard Nixon’s reelection in 1972. Inflation had been building in the 1960s and early 1970s as federal spending rose from the ongoing Vietnam War and new social programs. In this situation, the typical Fed policy would be to raise interest rates to counteract price pressures and higher inflation. Yet throughout Nixon’s first term from 1969 to 1973, the Fed cut interest rates by almost half. Some historians argue that Nixon lobbied the Fed chair at the time — who had been a longtime adviser — to enact that policy in order to help Nixon’s reelection bid.

Nixon was overwhelmingly reelected, but the annual inflation rate eventually jumped to 12 percent in 1974.

As these examples demonstrate, Fed policies can impact elections, which is why both incumbents and challengers have an interest in following and understanding

the Federal Reserve’s actions.

But my perception — if I may offer it — is that the Fed guards its reputation and uses its policies in the best way for pursuing the mandate of achieving low unemployment and low inflation. The Fed is an independent agency. Its budget comes from member banks, and most of those serving on the Fed’s governing board are appointed for 14 year terms by the president, with confirmation from the Senate. The chair of the Fed’s board is appointed for a term of four years.

The Fed is widely expected to reduce interest rates this year. These reductions

will be watched for their size, frequency, and impacts on both inflation and employment. But it will be impossible to ignore the political implications of the Fed’s interest rate decisions. Analyses will be offered from a variety of perspectives. And then, once the elections are over, each of us will have to decide if the Fed’s policy decisions had any impacts on the results.

You Decide: What Went Right to Prevent the 2023 Recession? The 2023 economy ended with a bang. In the last three months of the year, real gross domestic product — meaning the value of

GELBVIEH NEWS

DeJong Joins American Gelbvieh Association. T he American Gelbvieh Association (AGA) is pleased to announce the addition of Tawnie DeJong to the AGA staff as the Member and Youth Activities Coordinator. In her role, DeJong will serve as the staff advisor to the American Gelbvieh Junior Association (AGJA) board of directors and members, coordinate all junior activities, help plan the AGA National Show, and assist Gelbvieh members and customers with the AGA Online Registry.

“Tawnie comes from a strong livestock background and understands the cattle industry,” said Lori Maude, President of the AGA board of directors. “We are excited to have someone with Tawnie’s experience and talent join the staff to lead our junior programs and work with our members.”

DeJong grew up on a beef cattle ranch in South Dakota, where her family raised club calves with primarily Maine Anjou genetics. Growing up, she was extremely active in both 4-H and FFA with her four younger siblings. She studied animal science at S.D. State University, where she was a member of the livestock judging team.

Following college, DeJong worked for a year as a graphic designer and sale barn consultant for an ag newspaper and two years as a recruiter for a community college in Wyoming. She returned to school for a master’s degree in animal science with a focus on viral epidemiology at Michigan State University, where she served as the assistant and head coach of the livestock judging team.

Following graduate school, she served as the head livestock judging coach and an animal science instructor at the University of Missouri, coaching

everything produced in the economy after adjusting for inflation — rose a respectable 3.3 percent on an annualized basis. For the entire year, real gross domestic product increased 2.5 percent, higher than in 2022 and exactly the same as in 2019. The jobless rate also remained under 4 percent in 2023.

Yet a year ago, the majority of economists — including this one — predicted that 2023 would be a difficult year, likely culminating in a recession. In a recession, the real gross domestic product falls, and typically, the unemployment rate rises. Obviously, this didn’t happen in 2023. As a result, 2023 was a big “miss” by economists.

So what was so right about the 2023 economy, and what was so wrong with many economists’ predictions? And why were economists so pessimistic about 2023 to begin with?

low. Oil prices peaked in 2022 and today are lower than when the war in Ukraine started. And despite the efforts of the Fed, consumers are still spending more.

What happened to upend the dire predictions? World oil supplies actually increased in 2023, mainly due to record U.S. oil production and Russia’s ability to work around sanctions to find buyers for its oil. Despite rising labor costs, businesses continued to hire. And amazingly, consumers bought more and more.

seven teams in total. DeJong also served as the 4-H Livestock Superintendent for the Missouri State Fair. She enjoys judging and officiating livestock shows and has been fortunate enough to evaluate livestock at events in 20 states.

In her free time, DeJong enjoys providing opportunities for youth to find success in the sport of livestock judging, spending time with her Welsh Corgi, Luna, and playing cards and board games with her friends and family.

“I’ve always enjoyed working with young people and families in the livestock industry and am extremely excited to continue to help develop the next generation of livestock leaders through the AGJA,” said DeJong.

DeJong began her role with the AGA on January 22 and can be reached at tawnie@gelbvieh.org or the AGA office at 303-465-2333.

About the American Gelbvieh Association. AGA is a progressive beef cattle breed association dedicated to recording and promoting Gelbvieh, Balancer, and Gelbvieh influenced cattle while providing members and their customers programs and services to advance the breed.

AGA was started in 1971 and now consists of approximately 1,000 members with a registry database that contains over 1 million animals, including approximately 45,000 currently active Gelbvieh, Balancer, and Gelbvieh influenced cows.

The Gelbvieh breed is well known throughout the industry for its maternal strengths and superior growth. With these attributes, Gelbvieh and Balancer cattle fit well into a crossbreeding system and provide genetics that work for the commercial cattle business. For more information, visit www.gelbvieh.org

The simple answer is history. The Federal Reserve, the central bank of the country and typically simply called the Fed, is the key institution behind efforts to moderate inflation. As we all know, in recent years, the inflation rate has reached levels not seen in 40 years. When this happens, the Fed uses its powers over interest rates and the money supply to slow down spending, thereby taking the pressure off prices and leading to a more normal inflation rate.

The Fed does this by raising interest rates and pulling money out of the economy. In the last two years, the Fed raised its key interest rate to the highest level in 17 years, and it has reduced the money supply by almost a trillion dollars. The Fed’s efforts have paid off. After reaching an annual inflation rate of over 7 percent in 2022, the annual inflation rate is now 3.4 percent.

The problem is that such strong measures by the Fed usually result in a recession. Indeed, since World War II, there’s only been one exception.

Another factor driving economists’ 2023 predictions of a bad economy was the path of oil prices in 2022. For most of the year, oil prices rose, partially due to the ongoing war in Ukraine. Since oil is such a key factor in the economy, higher prices for oil and its derivatives can often spark an economic slowdown or an outright recession.

A third factor was business costs, especially for workers. The pandemic dramatically changed the labor market, ultimately resulting in significant increases in labor costs. Indeed, in 2021 and 2022, labor costs increased at the most rapid pace in almost 50 years. The logical conclusion was businesses would eventually need to reduce their labor force to pare overall costs. Laying off workers would increase unemployment and decrease household income, both ingredients that often create a recession.

But now we know none of these factors led to a recession. Jobs have continued to expand, and unemployment has remained

It’s the last factor — consumer spending — that is the key since that spending accounts for 70 percent of economic activity. A drop in consumer spending leads economies into a recession. For example, consumer spending fell 7 percent in the COVID-19 recession and declined 3 percent in the “subprime” recession of 2008-2009. In 2023, consumers spent 5 percent more. As consumers spent, companies sold more, and as companies sold more, additional workers were hired. This reinforcing circle kept the economy going. The typical script when the Fed raises interest rates wasn’t followed by the economic actors. And — unfortunately for their forecasts — economists were expecting the typical script.

How were consumers able to defy the odds and keep spending in 2023? Simple: They were able to draw down on COVID-19 money injected into the economy in 2020 and 2021. Estimates indicate households had excess savings of over half a trillion dollars during those years, thanks to several federal stimulus programs and a lack of spending opportunities while COVID-19 rules were still in place. Then, with the economy largely open in 2022 and 2023, consumers tapped those funds to propel buying. With the savings surplus almost depleted near the end of 2023, consumers supplemented their spending with borrowing. However, debt payments and delinquencies on those loans have only recently approached pre-pandemic levels.

The big mistake economists made was not recognizing how COVID-19 and the federal government’s reactions to the pandemic would change the traditional economic rules. Never before has the government intervened so quickly and so massively to deal with an economic crisis as it did with COVID-19. Over $6.5 trillion, equal to $20,000 per person, was rapidly pushed into the economy during 2020 and 2021. Much of it went to households so they could maintain their lifestyles during this traumatic and uncertain period.

The question for 2024 is, are we now back to the traditional economic rules? With COVID-19 induced spending now in the past, will economists’ forecasts of no recession in 2024 now be accurate? Or has the economics profession missed something else that will also make this rosy prediction wrong? You decide.

4B FARMS, LLC

Shelby, NC

Bryson Westbrook

Ed Soto (Manager) 980-230-4868 - Bryson 704-974-1407 - Ed brysonw@thewestbrookco.com

BLINSON

POLLED HEREFORDS

Lenoir, NC

Keith & Peggy Blinson - 828-310-4526 Bryan & Beth Blinson - 919-422-9108

DOUBLE J FARM

Traphill, NC • Earlysville, VA

John Wheeler 910-489-0024 doublejfarmllc@yahoo.com www.doublejfarmllc.com

E. CARROLL JOYNER BEEF UNIT Raleigh, NC

Matt Morrison 716-720-0227

FIVE J’S BEEF & CATTLE COMPANY

Clayton, NC

Jody & Angela Standley Kim Prestwood (Manager) 828-320-7317 - Kim jodystandley@gmail.com

North Carolina Hereford Advantage at www.nchereford.com

HEREFORD HILLS

Greensboro, NC

Bill Kirkman III 336-382-9635

ST Genetics Representative

LOOKABILL FAMILY LIVESTOCK Lexington, NC

Reggie, Patty, Tyler & Noah Lookabill 336-240-2142

rlookabill6015@gmail.com

McCOY CATTLE FARM Cove City, NC

Myron & Charlie McCoy 252-229-4602

mccoycattlefarms@gmail.com

MITCHEM’S FARM 3C Vale, NC

Wayne, Crystal, Regan & Jordan Mitchem 704-472-4369 mitchemsfarm@bellsouth.net

NORTH PINO LAND & CATTLE COMPANY Mocksville, NC

Kevin Robinson 336-940-2547

kevrob1@aol.com

LOVE FARMS

Blowing Rock, NC

Jim Love 828-266-1458 cell • 828-295-4236

P and J FARMS

Monroe, NC

Andy Smith 704-400-3436 pandjfarmsherefords@gmail.com

PRESTWOOD BEEF CATTLE Lenoir, NC Kim & Lori Prestwood 828-320-7317 - Kim 828-432-7434 - Lori brownloriclyde@yahoo

QUAIL RIDGE FARM Rutherfordton, NC Mark Brewer 828-329-2074 markbrewer65@gmail.com

TAYLOR’S MILL FARM Zebulon, NC J. Brent Creech 919-801-7561 tmfherefords@icloud.com

TERRACE FARM Lexington, NC Jim, Linda & Chad Davis 336-247-1554 jgdavis101@yahoo.com

TRIPLETT POLLED HEREFORDS

Statesville, NC James Triplett 704-902-2250 triplettmarble@bellsouth.net

W&A HEREFORD FARM Providence, NC

George, Tammy, William, & Andy Ward 434-251-3637 gwwardjr@comcast.net

WHITEHEAD CATTLE COMPANY

Lewiston Woodville, NC Austin & Jodie Whitehead Austin - 252-370-5647 Jodie - 252-642-3435 austinwhitehead@yahoo.com

WILL-VIA

HEREFORDS Mooresville NC Lavette Teeter 704-662-5262

New Hereford Website Launched. The American Hereford Association unveils a dynamic new experience for users. Software and websites are like any tools — no matter their previous trustworthy performance, sooner or later, a handle needs to be replaced, or a blade sharpened. The American Hereford Association (AHA) did a bit more than that in designing its new website.

“Our former website served users effectively, but they will find this one to be more intuitive and easier to use. They will also find more opportunity to drill down even deeper to discover information,” explains Taylor Belle Matheny, AHA director of communications and digital content. “We’re also excited to feature the Association’s new branding throughout the new site.”

Hereford breeders, commercial users

News

of Hereford genetics, and other visitors will encounter a dynamic, mobile friendly journey to the answers they seek. Along the way, they can also enjoy a bounty of award winning photography and videography.

Among the Key Features

• Hereford Marketplace - Listings of Hereford influenced females and feeder cattle for sale, as well as pasture to lease and hay to buy.

• Genetics and EPD search - Find details about Hereford genetics and the breed’s genetic evaluation. Easily find information about any animal registered with the Association.

• Herefords on Demand (HOD)Potential buyers can create customized searches of private treaty and production sale catalogs featuring live EPD updates.

• Breed Research - Review results of completed research projects over time and view updates on current research projects, such as the economics of Hereford heterosis and the genetics of cattle greenhouse gas emissions, conducted with AgNext and Colorado State University.

• Media - Find downloadable current and past issues of Hereford World and Baldy Advantage dating back to 2006.

• 1881 Podcast - Find every episode of this insightful exploration of breed history and current cattle and beef industry issues.

Special Interest to Hereford Breeders

• Marketing resources - AHA members can download the national ad campaign, photos, videos, artwork, program ads, 1881 booklet, and inserts to use in their advertising and communications.

• Member Services - This is where AHA members can easily conduct business with the Association, from submitting performance data to registering cattle. There is also a bevy of tutorials, breed information, herd management tools

and educational resources.

• Juniors - Find descriptions and links to the many opportunities available to members of the National Junior Hereford Association (NJHA), from the Fed Steer Shootout and Junior National Hereford Expo to the Faces of Leadership and Building on Leadership (BOLD) conferences.

• Hereford Publications Inc. (HPI)

- Besides publishing Hereford World and Baldy Advantage , HPI offers Hereford breeders and others a comprehensive suite of advertising design and sale catalog publication services. HPI is also behind HOD.

Visit Hereford.org to learn more.

About the American Hereford Association. The AHA, 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.

SAVE THE DATE. All cattle men and women from both North and South Carolina are invited to attend the 50 th Simmental Celebration of the N.C. Simmental Association. We are holding our 50th consignment sale, the longest running Simmental state consignment sale. The dates are September 6-7 at the Shuffler Sale Facility in Union Grove, North Carolina. We are doing some extra special things this year by holding a field day beginning on September 6 at noon with vendors and educational events. We will have an ultrasound demonstration, both for pregnancy and for backfat and ribeye area. We will have extra special viewing of the sale cattle offered at this very special sale.

By JENNIE RUCKER Executive Secretary N.C. Simmental Association

We plan to have some activities for youth to do and other educational workshops for producers, but we are still in the planning stages. Supper will be a great beef barbecue and maybe even entertainment. Some things you can consider:

• Consider your farm or business being another sponsor

• Consider consigning your BEST cattle to this sale

• Make definite plans to attend this one time 50th event

• If you have any helpful ideas, email them to ncsa@yadtel.net

• Invite other purebred or commercial cattlemen to this event

We welcome you to consign and

attend this event. Bred heifers and superior bred cows consistently top this sale. This is NOT a bull sale but predominantly a female sale. Both Simmental and SimAngus cattle sell well. Simmental sired commercial cattle can also be considered.

If you and your family are considering attending the Friday event, please RSVP with the number attending so we have enough food at 336-468-1679 or email ncsa@yadtel.net. SAVE THE DATE!

Clemson Bull Test Sale. The 48 th Clemson Bull Test Sale was held on February 3 at the Garrison Livestock Arena in Clemson, South Carolina. There were six SimAngus bulls sold and three purebred Simmental bulls sold. The top selling bull was a SimAngus bull consigned by Cook Cattle Services of Buckhead, Georgia. This bull sold for $5,250 and is sired by GAR Freedom. The next top selling was another SimAngus at $5,000, which was also from Cook Cattle Services. This bull is also a son of GAR Freedom. The top selling purebred Simmental bull was consigned by Woodlawn LLC of

Clarkesville, Georgia. This red Simmental bull sold for $4,000 and is a son of BAR CK Red Empire 9153G.

There were six SimAngus bulls grossing $21,500 to average $3,583. The three purebred Simmental bulls grossed $10,750 to also average $3,583. This year, the Clemson Bull Test Sale was held in memory of Dr. Steve Meadows, who sadly passed away unexpectedly last year. He managed the Clemson Bull Test for many years and was a fellow Clemson classmate of mine. He is greatly missed.

S.C. CharolaiS NewS

By GEORGEANNE WEBB S.C. Charolais Association

I have attached the invitation to Floyd Wampler’s retirement celebration in March in Bristol, Virginia. We are sad to see Floyd retire but happy for him as

he will be able to spend more time with his family. Of course, we are concerned about who they replace him with. Oh well, time will tell.

The Charolais breeders in the area are getting ready for the Appalachian Classic Sale in Knoxville on April 27. If you are interested in consigning, you should contact Dennis Adams this week. The Appalachian folks are planning a big wingding as this is their 25th year celebration of the sale. Plan to attend; don’t miss out.

We are excited here on our farm as the first calves from Atomic Mass are hitting the ground, with two heifers and one bull so far. The first heifer hit the ground on January 17, and the bull went to the herd on April 12, so he must have bred that cow the day he got up there.

All were born within two weeks of each other, so he has been working hard. By the time this is published, I will probably have a pasture full of calves since I am writing this on February 3.

I want to thank John Dellinger, Casey Evans, and Dr. John Dykers for stepping up for the spotlight on the Charolais edition of The Carolina Cattle Connection. I will need three or four more for next year, so keep that in mind and get in touch with me.

If you are a Charolais breeder, get in touch with your Area Director about any concerns before the National meeting in Kansas City in April.

You shouldn’t have to have a gun held to your head to take advantage of the expert A.I., superior genetics, the best in purebreds and outstanding farm supplies featured in the Classifieds in this issue!

The North American Limousin Foundation is Excited to Welcome Brooklyn Thompson to the Team as the NALF Media and Activities Assistant. Brooklyn Thompson is a mother, wife, and livestock producer. She is also a lover of Casey Donahew’s music, traveling, and spending time with her family.

Thompson’s story began on a small family owned and operated farm in Lathrop, Mo., where She raised livestock alongside her parents and three sisters. Since she was a little girl, she has had a passion for livestock, agriculture, photography, and writing.

Brooklyn started a hobby photography business in 2012, graduated high school in 2016, attended Iowa State University (2017-2019), and graduated from Kansas State University in 2020, earning a bachelor of science degree in agricultural communications and journalism. After graduating, she moved

to Maryville, Mo., where she now raises show lambs with her husband, Adam, and their son, Brue.

Thompson is a hardworking woman and likes to look at her glass half full. She sees potential in everyone and everything and loves working with others. She is excited to be in a working environment that will challenge her mind to grow.

“I’m not afraid to wear many hats, do the work that others won’t, and do my best at making sure all jobs are done the right way the first time.”

“I am beyond excited to begin this adventure at the North American Limousin Foundation as the Media and Activities Assistant! I’m excited to grow and expand my strengths and abilities as a working woman and mother in agriculture at NALF,” Thompson stated upon accepting the position.

“My hope is that Brooklyn and I will create a media department that is

second to none as we continue to improve the breed and set standards for the beef industry. I am excited to have Brooklyn join our team,” states Mallory Blunier, NALF Director of Media and Activities.

Brooklyn’s first official day with NALF will be March 11.

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

RED ANGUS NEWS

Oliver promoted to assistant director. The Red Angus Association of America is pleased to announce the promotion of Rachael Oliver to assistant director of commercial marketing. In this new role, Oliver will coordinate marketing team travel to bull sales, trade shows, and Feeder Calf Certification Program sales and work with stakeholders to positively represent Red Angus across the nation.

“Rachael exemplifies the hard work

and dedication to our producers that we want this team to be known for,” said Kelly Smith, RAAA director of commercial marketing. “Rachael has taken the lead on many projects, and we appreciate her integral role in building our marketing team.”

Oliver joined RAAA in January 2021 as a commercial marketing specialist. From Savage, Mont., she comes from and continues to be a part of her family’s beef

operation. Prior to her joining RAAA, she spent several years working with cattle ranchers to reach their genetic improvement goals at Select Sires and Trans Ova Genetics.

A 2017 graduate of Oklahoma State University, Oliver was an active member of the OSU Collegiate Cattlewomen and served as secretary. Now, she enjoys volunteering with area livestock judging teams and spending time helping her family with backgrounding and developing heifers in their feedlot.

Oliver has eagerly jumped into her new role. “I am excited to move into this role,” said Oliver. “ I’m thankful for the opportunity RAAA has given me to help

2024 South Carolina Sale Barn Cattle Receipts

cultivate my career.”

For more information about the Red Angus Association of America or marketing programs for Red Angus influenced cattle, visit www.RedAngus.org

About the Red Angus Association of America. The RAAA serves the beef industry by enhancing and promoting the measurable advantages of Red Angus and Red Angus influenced cattle. The RAAA provides commercial producers with objectively described cattle by implementing new technologies and using scientifically sound principles that quantify traits of economic importance to beef producers in all segments of the beef industry. For more information, visit www.RedAngus.org

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

COUNTRY BOY FARMS

David Miller 316 Key Road • Edgefield, SC 706-840-3709

Cole Maness, President - scmaness3@gmail.com

Santa Gertrudis Breeders International News

McClure Named Santa Gertrudis Breeders International Executive Director. Santa Gertrudis Breeders International (SGBI) announces Chris McClure as its executive director, effective immediately.

“SGBI welcomes Chris McClure as our new executive director,” says SGBI President Adolfo Sanchez. “He brings tremendous beef industry knowledge to the Santa Gertrudis breed as well as strong business experiences.”

As executive director, McClure will lead the association’s staff at SGBI headquarters in Kingsville, Tex., serve as a liaison between the board of directors and members, and lead the advancement of one of the beef industry’s most versatile purebred breeds.

“I am excited to be joining Santa Gertrudis Breeders International,” McClure says. “Although my experience

and background have been focused on commercial aspects of cattle production – rather than the registered and purebred seedstock business – I have long been interested in Santa Gertrudis cattle, which, I believe, have tremendous, underutilized potential to positively impact today’s beef production industry.”

McClure’s background is rooted in the agriculture industry and includes extensive experience in agricultural finance, business consulting, animal health distribution, and livestock diagnostics.

For the past nine years, McClure has worked as a business consultant for various clients, where he helped businesses raise capital, develop business plans, maintain customer relationships, and more. He has also previously worked with AzTx Cattle Company, Texas Heritage National Bank, and Gold Standard Labs.

“I see a bright future for America’s original beef breed because it is the right breed to meet the challenges of the future,” McClure says. “We have a great group of breeders who are poised and ready to fill the demand for these true ‘business focused’ cattle.”

About Santa Gertrudis Breeders International. SGBI provides progressive

leadership, services, programs, and technology to promote and broaden the long term profitability of Santa Gertrudis influence within the beef industry by being member driven and consumer focused. For more information about Santa Gertrudis cattle and Santa Gertrudis Breeders International, visit www.santagertrudis.com

I got a great buy in the Classifieds in The Carolina Cattle Connection!

Check out the expert A.I, superior genetics, fine purebreds and terrific farm supplies offered!

NEWS

Case IH Brings LiDAR Technology to Hay Producers, a first of its kind in Large Square Baler Automation. Automation kit improves productivity, bale quality, and operator experience. The next wave of automation is coming to large square baling in 2024 through Case IH Baler Automation. Designed for hands free efficiency, Large Square Baler Automation maximizes throughput and delivers consistent, high quality bales regardless of operator experience level. The dealer installed automation kit connects seamlessly with Class 3 ISOBUS Puma, Optum, and Magnum tractors.

“Productivity is the name of the game when it comes to the tight operating windows hay producers face,” says Brian Spencer, hay and forage marketing manager at Case IH. “Baler automation is the perfect example of purposeful technology from Case IH. It aims to tackle efficiencies by taking the duty off the operator to steer and make adjustments in the field, allowing them to add productivity while in the cab.”

Case IH Baler Automation is the industry’s first LiDAR (light detection and ranging) baling system, opening unprecedented opportunities for hay producers in efficiency and productivity.

The LiDAR-based swath analysis sends out laser pulses to measure the position and size of the windrows. The technology adjusts the speed and steering of the tractor to maximize throughput without overloading the baler, resulting in increased runtime compared to traditional baling. With the automatic adjustments and hands free baling, producers can put less experienced operators in the cab or spend their time in the cab running farm operations or focusing on other business.

“This technology is built for the unpredictable, yet expected challenges in baling with crooked windrows, and inconsistent widths and heights,” adds Spencer. “The automatic adjustments in steering and speed ensure the bales are consistent and the baler is running at peak performance, avoiding blockages and overfilling.”

Case IH precision technology through AFS Connect also ensures that tracking and monitoring are happening during the baling process. Hay producers can remotely monitor field performance and tractor diagnostics during baling while securing records for review after harvest.

Baler Automation, launched at the 2024 NCBA Cattle Con, is compatible with HD models from Model Year 2020 to 2024 and XL models from Model Year 2022 to 2024.

Case IH has a broad range of hay system solutions in 2024, from advanced equipment to a recently introduced app that streamlines invoicing processes for custom hay producers.

Case IH Goes Big with AF11

Combine Introduction. The Class 10+ Combine Entry Sets New Bar on Harvesting Capacity. Each year, farmers are challenged to accomplish more within tighter windows. In order to get the most out of every engine hour, Case IH is launching the AF11 combine, an industryleading powerhouse purposefully redesigned from the ground up to maximize time in the field.

The AF11 brings together runtime advancements through speed and technology to maximize in-field productivity in this 775 hp machine. By coupling Case IH’s first ever dual rotor, the AFXL2, with an active and dynamic cleaning system, the AF11 delivers industry leading capacity.

“We recognize growers have an increasing amount of ground to cover while facing unpredictable harvest windows and labor shortages. With the AF11, Case IH addresses these variables head-on,” says Leo Bose, harvesting segment leader. “We see this machine as a way to drive capacity, bring state-of-theart technology and bottom line benefits for our customers while also providing the reliability that customers have come to expect from Case IH.”

The AF11 builds upon Axial Flow strength and heritage, providing matched capacity from header to spreader. The speed and throughput are delivered with consistent crop flow, reduced grain loss, and radar controlled residue management. The AF11 boasts a 567 bushel grain tank and a 6 bushel per second unload rate, leading stats for a Class 10+ combine. Plus, it delivers improved fuel efficiency and a large fuel tank to keep runtime at a maximum.

“Our product development process, which is centered around farmers, identified the need for matched capacity, speed, and throughput,” adds Bose. “The AFXL2 dual rotor technology drives that capability to harvest more in less time.”

Drew Baker, a Canadian farmer, is looking to increase productivity and

efficiency as harvesting windows narrow and input costs increase. Baker sees the AF11 as a way to revolutionize his farm amid those harvesting challenges.

“I would say [the AF11] makes us look differently at our future options. If we can cut our [grain] losses, do more in a day, burn less fuel, and lose less out of the back of the combine – that’s a real advantage,” said Baker, who farms just outside of Winnipeg, Manitoba.

The AF11 is the first in the AF series and will offer a number of top-of-the-line technology focused features, including Case IH’s combined automation solution, Harvest Command.

Case IH offers a suite of precision technology and connectivity products that not only simplify harvest operations but also solve ongoing issues, such as labor and operating windows, by opening doors to less experienced labor and helping an operation improve its ROI through shared analytics and diagnostics.

“The AF11 is offering technology driven efficiencies to growers,” adds Bose. “It’s about elevating control – even if the farmer isn’t in the driver’s seat. We’re providing technology that can optimize machine settings in real time to navigate even the toughest conditions harvest can throw your way.”

The AF11 will only be available in North America, and more information about specifications and pricing will be

released at a later date.

Case IH Debuts Specialty Focused Farmall Lineup. Case IH is introducing new tractor models for specialty crop producers that will integrate seamlessly into orchard operations of any size, delivering improved operator comfort, minimizing crop damage, and enhancing productivity. Featured new products and options at the World Ag Expo include:

New Farmall CL Series Tractors

- The new Case IH Farmall CL series tractors provide unmatched flexibility and stability. These tractors feature a wider rear axle, guaranteeing stability on hills and enabling seamless navigation through orchards and minimizing crop damage. Farmall CL series tractors also come with versatile options for upgrading hydraulic pumps and optimizing performance with adaptable transmissions, ensuring customizable functionality that can be tailored to any operation.

“Operators spend all day in these machines. We are continuously looking for ways to make them even more comfortable, and more capable of ensuring peak productivity in any operation,” says Teri Zanella, Farmall product manager at Case IH. “We want to provide equipment that protects against loss and increases efficiencies in the operation.”

New Upgrades for Farmall Utility A Tractors - A variety of new upgrade options are now available for Farmall

Farm Credit News

AgCarolina Farm Credit announces patronage distribution of $49 million. AgCarolina Farm Credit announces the distribution of their 2023 patronage distribution to members in early April 2024.

The all cash patronage being paid is $49 million. This patronage is distributed directly to the members of AgCarolina Farm Credit. The amount equates to returning an approximate 30 percent of accrued interest on member loans in 2023.

“As your local lending cooperative, an important benefit is the ability to distribute patronage back to our members as it reflects the strength and health of the Association,” said Evan Kleinhans, CEO of AgCarolina Farm Credit. “Each year, the member elected Board of Directors strategically review and determine the amount of profits to be distributed back to our members across our 46 county territory in our 20 local branch offices.”

“By distributing our profits to our

members, it reduces the effective cost of borrowing in our agriculture and rural lending cooperative. Our 2023 patronage refund equates to an average interest rate reduction of approximately 1.75 percent for members,” Kleinhans stated, “and it further proves the distinct financial benefits of doing business with a cooperative.”

About AgCarolina Farm Credit.

AgCarolina Farm Credit is a member owned financial cooperative with headquarters in Greenville, North Carolina. They are the leading provider of credit to full and part time farmers in central and eastern North Carolina.

AgCarolina Farm Credit has over $3 billion in loans and commitments outstanding to nearly 6,000 members across their 46 county territory. Loans are made to finance land, homes, farm buildings, operating expenses, livestock, and equipment, as well as other purposes across our 20 local branch locations.

A utility tractors, which will enhance fuel capacity and overall productivity in almond orchards. The benefits of these upgrades include:

• Robust protection - Additional factory fitted protections, component guards, and three rear hydraulic remotes with flow control ensure producers and their equipment are better protected from branches, limbs, and tree nuts.

• Longer runtimes - Increased fuel tank capacity provides an 8-12 hour runtime before refueling, resulting in improved productivity.

• Greater stability - A new front ballast provides additional weight for greater balance and a smoother ride.

• Seamless compatibility - A frame configuration designed for orchard landscapes, a variety of tire options, and seamless compatibility with the existing loader.

Cost Effective Flexibility with Farmall 140A Pro - A high capacity, rear 3 point hitch is now available on the Farmall 140A Pro. This new option adds flexibility, providing an efficient and cost effective solution for handling heavy equipment in produce production.

Case IH Presence at National Farm Machinery Show Showcases

New Combine, Steiger Options. AF11 Class 10+ combine takes center stage in first public showing. National Farm Machinery Show is the site for several next level announcements from Case IH, continuing to drive purposeful solutions for producers. Building on the legacy of Axial-Flow and Steiger, Case IH is not only showcasing the recently unveiled AF11 and the next generation corn head, designed to match its capacity, but also introducing the Quadtrac Heavy Duty Suspension for Steigers that ups the ante in track technology.

For farmers looking to cover more acres in less time, the AF11, which Case IH announced earlier this month, sets the bar in maximizing time in the field. To maximize the capacity of the AF11, Case IH is introducing the C516 corn head, offering improved performance with a swift, clean harvesting solution.

“We know that farmers are looking to pick corn faster, cleaner and with as little downtime as possible,” says Leo Bose, harvesting segment lead for Case IH. “When paired with an Axial Flow combine, like the AF11, this durable corn head will deliver maximized capacity and throughput.”

The C516 corn head is designed with

runtime in mind. It boasts the largest cross auger in the industry for maximized throughput, independent drive lines that allow for row unit protection, and overall weight reduction for improved flotation and reduced soil compaction. The C516 corn head and AF11 will be available only in North America.

In addition to leadership in harvesting, Case IH once again sets the bar in track technology with the introduction of the Quadtrac Heavy Duty Suspension (HDS), optional for model year 2025. HDS brings greater productivity through faster transport speeds of up to 26.5 mph, and less shock is transmitted to the machine and operator due to the fully suspended track system conforming to the ground surface.

“We have significantly reduced vibrations felt in the cab for the operator, while also improving efficiency and performance in the field through a larger drive wheel and longer track,” says Morgen Deitrich, tractor segment lead for Case IH. “Building hydraulic suspension into our Quadtracs was the next evolution for Steiger tractors. It comes down to being purposeful in how we deliver solutions to our customers, whether it be comfort, maintenance or just overall experience.”

HDS is greaseless by design with an exclusive load sharing hydraulic suspension and self tensioning tracks. Built with durability and agronomic principles in mind, HDS delivers unmatched comfort and reduced soil compaction via a larger footprint.

To learn more about these new offerings and more from Case IH, visit www.caseih.com

About Case IH. Case IH is a global leader in agricultural equipment, committed to collaborating with its customers to develop the most powerful, productive, and reliable equipment — designed to meet today’s agricultural challenges. With headquarters in the United States, Case IH has a network of dealers and distributors that operates in over 160 countries. Case IH provides agricultural equipment systems, flexible financial service offerings, and parts and service support for professional farmers and commercial operators through a dedicated network of professional dealers and distributors. Productivity enhancing products include tractors, combines and harvesters, hay and forage equipment, tillage tools, planting and seeding systems, sprayers and applicators, and site specific farming tools.

Cattlemen’s Beef Board Update

Cattlemen’s Beef Board Elects New Officers at 2024 Winter Meetings. Cattle producers Andy Bishop of Kentucky, Ryan Moorhouse of Texas, and Dr. Cheryl DeVuyst of Oklahoma are the new leaders of the Cattlemen’s Beef Promotion & Research Board (CBB). This officer team is responsible for guiding the national Beef Checkoff throughout 2024.

Bishop, Moorhouse, and DeVuyst were elected by their fellow Beef Board members during their Winter Meetings, held during the 2024 Cattle Industry Convention in Orlando, Florida. Bishop, the 2023 vice chair, will now serve as the CBB’s chair, while Moorhouse will transition from his role as the 2023 secretary-treasurer to become the 2024 vice

chair. DeVuyst is the newest member of the officer team, taking on Moorhouse’s former responsibilities as secretary-treasurer.

The 2024 Chair Andy Bishop and his wife Meagan of Coxs Creek, Ken., are raising their four children on their registered Angus seed stock operation, Fairfield Farm. Bishop began his career teaching agriculture and moved into the field of agriculture lending in 2007. Bishop is the former chair of the Kentucky Beef Council and the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) Young Cattlemen’s Conference. Bishop also served as a member of the Long Range Planning Task Force and as president of the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association’s Young Producers Council and the Kentucky

Beef CheCkoff News

2024 Stockmanship & Stewardship

Locations Announced. Events to be Held

From Coast to Coast. It’s time to mark your calendars for 2024 Stockmanship & Stewardship events. During CattleCon24 in Orlando, four Stockmanship & Stewardship locations were announced. Event registration will open in late spring.

2024 Stockmanship & Stewardship dates and locations:

• August 23-24 - Richfield, Utah

• August 28-29 - Lancaster, Wisconsin

• October 25-26 - Hamburg, New York

• October TBD - Fresno, California

Stockmanship & Stewardship is a unique educational experience for cattle producers featuring low stress cattle handling demonstrations, Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) educational sessions, facility design sessions, and industry updates. Producers can become BQA certified, network with fellow cattlemen and women, participate in hands-on demonstrations led by animal handling experts, including Curt Pate and Dr. Ron Gill, and learn cutting edge techniques. The program is sponsored by the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA), Neogen, and the Beef Checkoff funded National Beef Quality Assurance program

“Neogen is dedicated to the advancement of human and animal well being through science and technology,” said

Cattlemen’s Young Producers group.

“The beef industry is in a unique situation as 2024 gets underway,” Bishop said. “Producers have been dealing with adverse weather and production cost conditions over the past few years, leading to herd liquidation. While things do seem to be improving, the Beef Checkoff must continue to be vigilant, developing the right programs and messaging to keep beef demand high. I’m excited to lead the CBB as we navigate the opportunities and challenges this year sends our way.”

Vice Chair Moorhouse grew up in North Central Texas on his family’s cow/ calf and stocker operation. After graduating from Texas A&M University, Moorhouse went to work for Continental Grain Cattle Feeding (now Five Rivers). He currently serves as the general manager for Hartley Feeders, a Five Rivers Cattle Feeding operation. A resident of Amarillo, Tex., Moorhouse, his wife Colette, and their two sons also operate a stocker operation back home on part of the family ranch.

Dr. Cheryl DeVuyst and her husband, Eric, own DeVuyst Ranch, a cow/calf and stocker operation. DeVuyst is also a professor of agricultural economics at Oklahoma State University and head of its Ag Econ department. DeVuyst is involved

with numerous agricultural organizations, including Oklahoma CattleWomen, Oklahoma Cattlemen’s Association, National Cattlemen’s Beef Association), Oklahoma Farm Bureau, Pawnee County CattleWomen, Agricultural and Applied Economics Association, and American National CattleWomen. She’s also a faculty advisor for the Oklahoma Collegiate CattleWomen and is a past board member of the Western Agricultural Economics Association.

“Our CBB members and staff are incredibly fortunate to have three strong beef industry leaders and advocates like Andy, Ryan and Cheryl at the helm of this organization,” said Greg Hanes, CEO of the Cattlemen’s Beef Board. “Each has unique experience and perspective to share, representing producers from across the United States. As we begin our journey through 2024, I’m looking forward to working with this leadership team to launch programs and initiatives that drive beef demand and benefit producers nationwide.”

For more information about the Beef Checkoff and its programs, including promotion, research, foreign marketing, industry information, consumer information, and safety, contact the Cattlemen’s Beef Board at 303-220-9890 or visit DrivingDemandForBeef.com

Elizabeth Wonsowski, livestock director of marketing at Neogen. “As a leader within the beef industry and proud partner of cattle ranchers and beef production, we recognize the important role that education and resources play in helping the cattle industry continue to grow in a healthy and sustainable way. We are proud to support NCBA and the Beef Checkoff through the Stockmanship & Stewardship program. Together, we can fuel a brighter future of global food security.”

For more information about Stockmanship & Stewardship, visit www. StockmanshipAndStewardship.org . Cattle producers attending a Stockmanship & Stewardship event are eligible for reimbursement through the Rancher Resilience Grant. To apply for a grant to cover registration and hotel costs, visit www. ncba.org/producers/rancher-resilience-grant

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.

Trace mineral verification program supports optimal cattle performance. One of the industry’s leading collaborations between Purina Animal Nutrition and Zinpro helps optimize cattle performance. With cattle markets looking to remain bullish, now is a key time to get the most from your herd’s performance. Trace minerals help with cattle performance from the inside out. When cattle receive appropriate amounts of trace minerals, it creates a myriad of benefits, including increased conception rates, better hoof health, improvements in semen quality, or ensuring heifers are pubertal faster.1,2

“Trace minerals are the spark that activates many of the biological systems for cattle,” says N.T. Cosby, Ph.D., cattle nutritionist with Purina Animal Nutrition.

Trace minerals help cattle maintain the function and integrity of the body, both internally and externally. Four of the most important trace minerals are:

• Zinc - Vital for skin integrity and hoof health. Also, helps with the gut

NEWS

barrier and absorption of nutrients.

• Cobalt - Involved in the rumen synthesizing B vitamins, especially B12.

• Manganese - Helps with the development of newborn calves, from overall structure to collagen creation and bone formation.

• Copper - Works with zinc for immune support to help cattle respond better to health challenges.

Verified performance - Zinc, cobalt, manganese, and copper are found in Zinpro Availa 4, a trace mineral package that can be added to Purina Wind and Rain mineral.3

“To realize the full benefit of trace minerals, cattle have to consume it consistently,” says Floyd Sutton, key account manager for Zinpro. “That’s why Purina is so great to work with because they are experts in designing products for consistent consumption.”

Purina is the first feed manufacturer to participate in a new verification program with Zinpro’s trace mineral packages. Any Purina products containing

Moo Vet — One Veterinarian’s Role in Food Supply and Sustaining Humanity

How many veterinarians do you know who specialize in food supply veterinary medicine? And what does that even mean?

Helping to feed the world, one healthy cow at a time!

Meet Dr. Sam Galphin, a renowned specialist with a rare vocation. Dr. Galphin’s desire to “help feed the world” has taken him around the globe as an advocate and practitioner of herd welfare and safety. From milk production to meat consumption, the “Moo Vet” has seen it all!

Along the way, the good doctor has stumbled into groundbreaking and controversial adventures on farms and in dairies, told firsthand as only an expert vet and wordsmith can do. Dr. Galphin’s decades of anecdotes read like a “Sherlock Holmes” novel, with mysterious ailments and a trail of clues leading to daring diagnoses in the U.S. and abroad.

Read along as Dr. Galphin details his mission work and the many lives he’s touched in a career like no other. These beautiful and meaningful experiences usher veterinary students and the public into good old fashioned laugh-outloud moments and the complexities of food supply veterinary medicine.

the research recommended amount of Zinpro additives will feature a Zinpro Verified labeling badge on the product tag. Zinpro Verified products include Wind and Rain mineral containing Zinpro Availa 4 and Purina Wind and Rain ProCycle mineral, which features Zinpro ProPath 4.4

“Zinpro and Purina have a good working relationship, and this program demonstrates that for both research driven companies,” adds Cosby.

The Zinpro Verified program is available to other participating feed manufacturers who can regularly demonstrate that their formulations contain the research recommended amount of trace minerals from Zinpro. What makes the Zinpro Verified program so unique from Purina is the proven, consistent intake of Purina products.

“The research rate is 7 grams as fed per head per day for Zinpro Availa 4, and that’s where you can get your best potential economic returns when cattle consistently consume mineral,” says Sutton.

Consistent consumption matters - In addition to being Zinpro Verified, something that sets Wind and Rain mineral apart is its consistent consumption, which is reinforced by the following abilities:

• Palatability - Mineral is useless if cattle can’t, or won’t, eat it. Wind and Rain mineral is designed for consistent consumption, so cattle eat what they need

• Bioavailability - Purina minerals feature bioavailable ingredients because the more bioavailable the ingredients

are, the better they’ll be absorbed by the animal and the more benefit you’ll receive in performance.

• Weatherability - Wind and Rain mineral’s large particle size and weather resistant formula reduce mineral waste from wind and water.

Optimizing these three abilities helps ensure cattle consume the proper balance of 14 essential minerals in just 4 ounces of Wind and Rain mineral per head per day. Additionally, when feeding additives like Zinpro Avalia 4, you’ll know your herd is also getting the full benefit of that product.

Resources

1Zinpro Corporation, TB-B-5019, 2004.

2Zinpro Corporation, TB-B-5012, 2004.

3Availa 4 is a registered trademark of Zinpro Corp.

4ProPath 4 is a registered trademark of Zinpro Corp.

About Purina Animal Nutrition. Purina is a national organization serving producers, animal owners, and their families through more than 4,700 local cooperatives, independent dealers, and other large retailers throughout the United States. Driven to unlock the greatest potential in every animal, the company is an industry-leading innovator offering a valued portfolio of complete feeds, supplements, premixes, ingredients, and specialty technologies for the livestock and lifestyle animal markets. Purina Animal Nutrition LLC is headquartered in Arden Hills, Minn., and a wholly owned subsidiary of Land O’Lakes, Inc. For more information, visit www.purinamills.com

New NCCA Members for 2024

In 2007, the NCCA Membership Committee passed a resolution to recognize all NEW members, defined as someone who has never been a member or has rejoined after a break in membership, in The Carolina Cattle Connection. Below are NCCA’s new members for the last month:

Out-of-State

D.J. Bradshaw – Shadow B Farms – Georgia

Alamance County

Peter Kirkpatrick – K-Farms

Gene Donald Nolf, Jr.

Alexander County

Debra M. Miller – Miller Farm

Bladen County

Aaron Blackmon

– Deep Root Cattle Company

Buncombe County

Ashton Austin

Neal & Ava Marie Morgan

– Shady Place Farm

Caldwell County

John Demboski

Catawba County

Suri Boyd

Jay Estes

Jerry Longfellow

Hayden Love

Bethany Parker

Hayden Shook – Shook Farms

Kathryn Tallent

Jameson Whitworth

Cherokee County

John Fogle – Fogle Farm

Cleveland County

Miller Browne – Elmore’s Feed & Seed

Craven County

Matt Paul – Paul Family Pastures Farm

Cumberland County

Arthur Albert – Albert Produce

Davidson County

Tyler Berrier

– Lookabill Family Livestock

Davie County

Dustin Wright – Wright Farm Gates

Duplin County

J.E. & Mary Brice – Brice Farms

Joy Brock – NewGen Farms

Russell Brock – NewGen Farms

Benjamin Davis

– Benjamin Thomas Davis Farms

Randy & Brenda Kennedy

– Randy W. Kennedy Farms

Forsyth County

Karyn James – MM Cattle Company

Gaston County

Howard Eaves – Eaves Farms

Guilford County

Curtis York

Haywood County

Jesse Davis

Blake Jones – Bonnie View Farms

Austin McFalls – Ratcliff Family Farm

Eli Medford – Turnpike Cattle Company

Will Norris – Norris Farms

Kaleb Rathbone – Rathbone Farms

Doyle Smith

Colby Stamey

Iredell County

Chris Howell

– Back Forty Land Development

Johnston County

Daisy Brown – Shotgun Farms

David Johnson – Sonny Brooke Ranch

Lauren Kloc – Sun-Dell

Nash County

Matthew Lancaster

– Lancaster Livestock Farms

Lee & Amy Sweem – Clover Leaf Farm

Pasquotank County

John Lane – Bayside Farms

Pender County

Larry B. Wooten

Pitt County

John Moses – Purple Plow Farm

Melissa Moses – Purple Plow Farm

Harley Roberts – Purple Plow Farm

Tim Roberts – Purple Plow Farm

Randolph County

Clint Beck – Clint Beck Farms

Emily Cribbs

Darren Layton – Layton’s Corner Farm

Rachel Moore

Bryson Pait

Richmond County

Ashlee Faulkner – The Dude Ranch N.C.

Forrest Faulkner – The Dude Ranch N.C.

Robeson County

Jarrett Lowry – Christ Driven Farms

Rockingham County

Jack Phillips – Jack Phillips Cow Calf

Rowan County

Dustin Doby – Josey Farms

Stanly County

Lauren Bell – Still-Mabry Farm

Surry County

John Woodlief – Chappell Farms

Union County

Mark Cabrera – Cabrera Farms

Lauren Cress

Wayne County

Graham Price – Price Cattle Farm

Wilkes County

Brad Calloway – Apple Brandy Beef

Parker Gilreath – Apple Brandy Beef

Chuck Lewis – Sheraton Park Farms

Justin Sparks – L & L Cattle

Wilson County

Aryhonia Darby

Pamela Hawkins

Emma Lamm

Trey Lamm

Jessica Manning

Jacob Moore

Y’all have stumbled on the best place to advertise expert A.I., superior genetics, the best in purebreds and outstanding farm supplies. Check the Classifieds in this issue!

N.C. Beef Cattle Improvement Program 2023 Bull Test Summary

By JOHNNY R. ROGERS N.C. BCIP Coordinator

The N.C. Beef Cattle Improvement Program (N.C. BCIP) completed a successful year with its bull test programs. The primary purpose of the N.C. BCIP is to serve as an educational aid for the genetic improvement and promotion of beef cattle. The purpose of the test is to standardize environmental conditions and feed for evaluating post weaning performance and to provide useful records for the consignor to use in evaluating and planning his/ her breeding program. The purpose of the sale is to provide a source of and market for performance tested bulls and to promote the use of genetic evaluation technologies. Both testing locations feature development with a silage based ration, carcass merit ultrasound, and a complete breeding soundness exam. All bulls were genomically tested prior to nomination to verify parentage and enhance EPD accuracy.

There were 31 bulls delivered to Waynesville on June 21 and weighed on test by taking weights on consecutive days (July 5-6). The final weights were taken on consecutive days (October 24-25) to determine the ending weight. The 112 day ADG was 3.5 lbs. per day, and the average final weight was 1,242 pounds. A Final Index is calculated for each breed group to determine the sale order. The high indexing bulls were as follows: Angus – Lot 16 Berry-Wells Farm; Hereford – Lot 31 4B Farms; and SimAngus – Lot 23 Broadway Cattle Farm. There were 21 bulls offered for sale on December 2 at the WNC Livestock Center. The high selling Angus bull was Lot 16, consigned by BerryWells Farm for $4,900 and purchased

by Beecher Allison of Brevard, North Carolina. Lot 31 from 4B Farms was the high selling Hereford bull for $2,600 going to Steve Ross of Clyde, North Carolina. The SimAngus division featured Lot 21 as the high seller at $4,000 going to Steve Roberson of Asheville, North Carolina. Overall, 21 bulls averaged $3,665.

On July 5, bulls were received at Butner Beef Cattle Field Lab and weighed on test on July 17-18 with consecutive weigh days. Final weights taken on November 6-7 revealed that the bulls posted a 3.4 ADG with an average final weight of 1,201 pounds. Final Index calculations showed the following performance: high indexing Angus - Lot 1 Oakview Farm; Hereford - Lot 51 Terrace Farm; SimAngus - Lot 54 Keziah Farms; and Red Angus - Lot 47 Phoenix Red Angus. On December 15, the Granville County Livestock Arena hosted the 40th Butner Bull Test Sale, which featured 40 bulls. The high selling Angus bull was Lot 4 at $5,250, consigned by Oakview Farm and purchased by Lloyd Winslow of Halifax, North Carolina. The $3,000 Will-

Via Polled Herefords Lot 48 consignment was the high selling Hereford bull going to Craig Church of Sutherlin, Virginia.

The top bidder in the SimAngus breed was Frank Howey of Monroe, N.C., selecting Lot 54 from Keziah Farms for $3,500. The high selling Red Angus was Lot 47 from Phoenix Red Angus at $4,400, selling to Frank Howey Monroe, North Carolina. When the final gavel fell, 34 bulls averaged $3,704.

On behalf of the N.C. BCIP, thank you to all the consignors, buyers, bidders, and test station staff who helped make the 2023 Bull Tests a success. I have had numerous inquiries about the 2024 Bull Tests, and a favorable cattle market has producers focused on genetic improvement. We hope to see you at a future N.C. BCIP event.

To be eligible for an N.C. BCIP Bull Test Sale bulls must pass a breeding soundness exam.

There was good attendance and active bidding at both bull sales.

Bulls are developed on a silage based ration at both N.C. BCIP Bull Tests

I’m No Engineer or Economist, But…

BY CHRISTOPHER LeMASTER Clemson University

With the recent cattle prices, you have probably sought ways to reinvest in your farm. Often, this means upgrading facilities to decrease labor and the grind of chores like feeding. This article presents a simple design of a feeding area and a catch pen.

This is not a factsheet or blueprint. Like most projects on our farm, we deviated far from our original plans. Were this a fact sheet, there would be a clean breakdown of materials and labor, but I am no economist, so I do not know how to account for all the time spent debating which way a gate should swing or looking for my tape measure. Our material cost is debatable because much of the materials were on hand, recycled, or purchased cooperatively for a volume discount. However, to give you some idea of the material cost, I have provided some suggested retail costs from our original materials list. I hope this article is food for thought and something you can improve and tailor for your operation.

Site selection - We selected a site with natural drainage, was close to a road, and was central to the pasture. The site is adjacent to an intersection of low traffic rural paved roads that make a right triangle. Our entrance gate (gate A in Figure 1) is at the 90º corner of the right triangle formed by the roads. This provides a large, paved approach to our pen and an easy way to back up long trailers to the loadout/entrance gate (gate A) without leaving the pavement. The roads also provide a large grass patch inside them that’s nearly accessible from all sides; we intend to use it for hay storage to minimize gate opening and time off the pavement. We had to remove some trees and grade the area down to about a 2 percent slope across the footprint of the corral, plus a 30’ buffer. While grading, we installed berms near the road frontage to prevent our runoff from entering the road ditch. We want the nutrients from the cattle and the feed to feed our pastures, so we diverted the

water toward our terrace system to slowly utilize the nutrients long before it finds a creek.

The design - Backgrounding calves requires an efficient way to feed them daily. At the risk of sounding lazy, we wanted a system that required no gate opening. Due to the road’s right of way and topography, a fenceline bunk system parallel to the road did not suit the site. Instead, you will

notice this design includes a driveway for truck feeding that is also the load out alley. Typically, gates B and C remain closed, preventing cattle access to the alley. Cattle enter the pen from gates D or E; gate E is on the perimeter fence of the pasture. We included a 30’ section of pipe fence along the perimeter fence as a crowding area for entering gate E. A pipe attached by an offset bracket to the posts along the bunk prevents

cattle from crossing the bunks. Gates can be set to feed cattle from both sides of the bunk if we have an extra large group.

The materials - The increased wood prices made steel options much more affordable for fence materials. At the time, there was not much price difference between guard rail and 20’ pipe panels. We used pipe panels, assuming they would be easier to cut, install, and handle. They require no welding as they are attached to wood posts with heavy duty pipe straps and linked with internal couplers (smaller diameter pipe inserted in joining panels). Roughly, these panels are $200 per panel after you add couplers, hangers, and hauling. This design allowed 11 panels and 11 concrete calf bunks (8’). The recommended bunk space for backgrounding (500-700 lb calves) is 18” per head (Harner & Murphy). As calves are trained, the bunk space requirement can decrease (Woolsoncroft). This layout will easily feed 60 stockers or 80 if they are given access to the alley side of the bunk. Those bunks start around $150 plus hauling. We were fortunate to source our materials within a one hour drive. This layout called for 38 posts of various sizes. Smaller diameter (6”) posts were used along the bunks but were driven at least

3’ deep. Telephone posts and posts greater than 6” were used everywhere else. Post spacing was as much as 10’ on the straight runs but much tighter on the crowding areas and gates. Roughly 45 posts were used. A 6” layer of compacted crusher

run on geotextile fabric is recommended across and surrounding the pen, alley, and gate approaches.

Further improvements - The alley is sized similarly to a Bud Box, so adding a small alley leading to a squeeze chute or even just an additional pen for sorting may be beneficial. If you can manage the timeline, I recommend using an EQIP grant through NRCS to share the footing cost and install some waterers. Remember to place the waterers at least 150 feet from the feed bunks so cattle will finish their feed before drinking. I am sure someone more clever could also incorporate a fenceline hay feeding system similar to the University of Kentucky’s (Higgins & Moser)

These improvements are not inexpensive, but there are plenty of economic and livestock reasons to warrant improvements to everyday chores like feeding. This was a simple approach, and I know better designs exist. I would love your feedback on improving this or hearing what works for you. I hope you see the light at the end of the tunnel as we round the corner into spring.

References

Harner J., Murphy J. (1998) “Planning Cattle Feedlots.” Kansas State University Woolsoncroft M. (2018)

“Preconditioned vs Weaned Calves can Affect Bunk Space Requirements in Feedlots.” University of Nebraska-Lincoln Higgins S., Moser L. (2019)

“Fenceline feeder systems for beef cattle production and resource conservation.” University of Kentucky

Regular copy deadline is MARCH 5 for the APRIL issue!

Is there a problem?

Guidance to rebuild the cow herd safely after drought. One of the greatest challenges for cows in drought conditions is that forage quality and quantity are suboptimal, said Phillip Kesterson, DVM, with Zoetis beef technical services. Based in Bridgeport, Neb., Dr. Kesterson has seen drought cycles and their effects several times over the years with his

clients.

“As areas begin to recover from a drought, we need to remember that the cow herd may have had insufficient nutrients critical for immune response, for reproduction, and for development of the unborn calf,” Dr. Kesterson said. “Drought can change plant physiology and nutrient bioavailability

so the cow’s needs may not be met, thus routine practices like vaccinations, synchronization protocols, and parasite control may not yield the expected results.”

Dr. Kesterson recommends taking a close look at the herd to ensure the body condition of the cows is adequate and improving as the pastures recover. It is critical to make sure the remaining cow herd’s needs are met before considering replenishing cow numbers.

As pastures are restored back to productivity, cow/calf producers will once again be ready to rebuild cow numbers. There are three main approaches to rebuilding cow herd numbers:

• Buying open replacement heifers

• Buying bred heifers or cows from a known source private treaty

• Buying bred heifers or cows through a sale/auction barn

“As we bring new cattle into the herd, the biggest concern is with the health and well-being of your current cow herd,” Dr. Kesterson said. “You are exposing them to other disease pathogens and challenging their immune systems. Following basic biosecurity measures, like quarantining new cattle, can help protect your cow herd.”

Dr. Kesterson breaks down the concerns with each approach to expanding the herd:

• Buying open replacement heifers

º This situation can be ideal or potentially problematic, depending on the timing between purchase and breeding, potentially limiting vaccination options.

º A solid vaccination strategy is two doses of a modified live vaccine, such as Bovi-Shield GOLD FP 5 VL5, before breeding. The first dose should be given after the heifers have reached maturity (as evidenced by cycling). Allow a three to eight week interval and administer the second dose, timed at least 30 days prior to breeding; 45 days is possibly more ideal.

º If you are less than 30 days from breeding, CattleMaster GOLD FP vaccines are a strategically sound alternative option because they can be safely administered to any animal at any time.

º Additionally, a complete health program, including parasite control, is critical to breeding success.

• Buying bred heifers or cows from a known source private treaty

º The best situation is sourcing animals from a solid, modified live vaccination program with proper timing of administration, ideally at prebreeding.

º Less ideal are animals from a program utilizing vaccines not labeled for fetal protection or where vaccinations are inappropriately timed.

• Buying bred heifers or cows through a sale/auction barn

º This significantly increases the risk compared to buying privately in the country due to greater pathogen exposure based on the volume of cattle that sell through the auction barn.

º Commingling presents an increased risk of exposure to pathogens not only to the cow or heifer but also to their unborn calf. They also have an increased risk of stress or injury with loading and unloading, sorting on concrete, and going through processing facilities.

º If vaccination history is unknown, utilize CattleMaster GOLD FP 5, the

only commercially available inactivated vaccine that provides fetal protection.

º It is critical to observe a six-week quarantine period before commingling new additions with the established herd. One of the greatest risks is bringing in an animal persistently infected (PI) with bovine viral diarrhea (BVD) virus that could put the herd at risk. A testing strategy for BVD would be well worth the money anytime you bring new additions into the herd.

º The greatest risk of introducing a BVD PI animal in your herd is purchasing a pregnant animal that is carrying a BVD persistently infected unborn calf. The only way to identify a BVD PI fetus is to test the calf as soon as possible after birth.

“The ideal situation is to quarantine the purchased cattle until calves are born and offspring is tested BVD free, then

you can commingle with little worry,” Dr. Kesterson said. “If you are unable to keep them separate, it elevates the importance of a robust modified live prebreeding vaccination program in the resident cow herd.”

Dr. Kesterson added that challenges producers face as they start rebuilding the herd are not only the cost of replacement females but also the availability of animals meeting the producer’s criteria. “We come to a fork in the road if we can’t source ideal replacements, we need to evaluate other uses for the land,” Dr. Kesterson said. “We could run yearlings or take in cow/calf pairs. We need to make calculated decisions and realize the consequences of those decisions, especially if we choose to buy less than ideal replacement females.”

One last reminder from Dr. Kesterson

N.C. Cattle Receipts, Trends, and Prices for the Month of JANUARY 2024

Cattle Receipts: 11,347 • Previous Month: 10,067

Feeder supply - 20% steers • 43% heifers • 37% bulls FEEDER

is that as cows are commingled, even adult animals are more susceptible to other health challenges, such as respiratory disease. “One of the first things we think when a dead cow appears in the pasture is poisoning,” Dr. Kesterson said. “Necropsies are critical to determine the cause of death. Mature cows are masters at hiding their symptoms.”

Dr. Kesterson encourages producers to have realistic expectations as they repopulate herds with cattle from outside sources. He said the best approach is to consult your veterinarian to assess the risks and develop a plan prior to adding animals back to the herd. For more herd health information, visit BuildingHealthyHerds.com.

Do not use in pregnant cattle (abortions can result) unless they were vaccinated, according to label directions, with any Bovi-Shield GOLD FP or PregGuard GOLD FP vaccine prebreeding initially and within 12 months thereafter. Do not use in calves nursing pregnant cows unless their dams were vaccinated

within the past 12 months, as described above. To help ensure safety in pregnant cattle, heifers must receive at least two doses of any Bovi-Shield GOLD FP or PregGuard GOLD FP vaccine, with the second dose administered approximately 30 days prebreeding.

About Zoetis. As the world’s leading animal health company, Zoetis is driven by a singular purpose: to nurture our world and humankind by advancing care for animals. After innovating ways to predict, prevent, detect, and treat animal illness for more than 70 years, Zoetis continues to stand by those raising and caring for animals worldwide — from veterinarians and pet owners to livestock farmers and ranchers. The company’s leading portfolio and pipeline of medicines, vaccines, diagnostics, and technologies make a difference in over 100 countries. A Fortune 500 company, Zoetis generated revenue of $8.1 billion in 2022 with approximately 13,800 employees. For more information, visit www.zoetis.com

FEEDER

Source: N.C. Dept. of Agriculture - USDA Market News Service, Raleigh, N.C. - 919-707-3156

NEWS

John Deere Introduces New Telescopic Compact Wheel Loader. With over 16 feet of reach and a variety of productivity enhancing features, the new 326 P-Tier telescopic compact wheel loader has a place on any farm or ranch Compact wheel loaders are one of the fastest growing classes of equipment in agriculture today, and for good reason. Their versatility makes them the perfect do all tools for stacking, loading, pallet transport, and even snow removal. That’s why John Deere is thrilled to offer the new 326 P-Tier telescopic compact wheel loader, a powerful, easy-to-operate loader that’s sure to find a welcoming home on farms across the country.

“Ranchers and dairy producers will love the 326 P-Tier for its reach, its flexibility, and its lift capacity,” said Luke Gribble, John Deere go-to-market manager. “Operators will enjoy it for the

cab visibility, the boom controls, and the exclusive Articulation Plus steering system. Put it all together, and the 326 P-Tier is a real multi-tool’ for the farm or ranch.”

Lift, load, and stack with over 16 feet of reach - Starting at the business end, the 326 P-Tier telescopic compact wheel loader offers 16 plus feet of reach from its telescopic lift arm – more than enough to stack bales or load TMRs –while still being compact enough to work in barns or other tight spaces. Extending and retracting the telescoping arm is performed with the mini-joystick located on the main control lever, meaning operators don’t have to remove their hands from the main controls to activate the arm.

To help guard against overloading the arm, The Load Torque Indicator System gives visual and audible alarms if stability

limits are exceeded during lifting, lowering, or extension. If the stability limit is reached, movement of the lift arm is only possible if the movement reduces the load. In addition, a separate indicator warns of potential overload of the tilt cylinder.

“Features like these help make the 326 P-Tier one of the most confidence inspiring and operator friendly wheel loaders available,” Gribble said. “And it is perfect for helping less experienced operators become better, faster.”

A cab built for the business of movement - Inside the cab, operators will find a comfortable, easy-to-navigate environment with all the features necessary for stress free lifting and loading. To start, the 9 inch touchscreen display puts key information within easy view; the configurable display shows key data such as warnings, status, and machine positioning information. Intuitive user friendly menus allow operators to tailor the display and machine functionality to the task at hand.

Conveniently placed electrohydraulic controls, customizable from the touchscreen display, offer Auto Return-toDig, Auto Lift, and Lower functions and help to reduce cycle times while enabling consistent, repeatable movements. All the while, optional boom mounted lights and standard overhead window allow a clear view to the end of the telescoping arm so operators can place bales, pallets, or bucketloads with confidence.

The 326 P-Tier telescopic compact wheel loader also features a brisk 23 mph top speed to help move quickly between jobs. And for tight turning in barns and other cramped spaces, the industry exclusive Articulation Plus steering system offers a full 30 degrees of articulation plus ten additional degrees of rear wheel steering.

“The farm or ranch is no place for equipment that doesn’t pull its weight,” Gribble said. “But with the power and versatility to tackle such a wide range of jobs, the 326 P-Tier is a ‘go-to’ piece of equipment for operations of all types and sizes.”

John Deere Expands W200 Windrower Series Lineup and Optional Mounted

Merger. New high horsepower windrower model helps improve productivity and efficiency. John Deere expands its windrower series with the new W260M model, enabling increased productivity and efficiency. Offering an additional higher horsepower model at the M specification level, operators can cut a denser crop more efficiently. Additionally, the all new W260M seamlessly pairs with the new mounted merger option, allowing operators to combine up to 48 feet into

one windrow. Providing the opportunity for less future passes by eliminating merger and chopper passes. Which ultimately can lead to less fuel usage and a more sustainable approach with less crop damage.

The mounted merger is also compatible with existing windrower models — W235M, W235R, and W260R. The complete solution set eliminates the need for an additional field pass, saving growers time and money.

“Dairy feed producers are looking for ways to improve profitability that doesn’t increase labor hours. The new W260M and mounted-merger solution set helps accomplish just that,” said Kaylene Ballesteros, John Deere hay and forage go-to-market manager. “Our customers need to do more with less to combat rising costs within the industry. A solution that offers time savings with less passes allows them more time and money to focus on other areas of their operation.”

The John Deere windrower portfolio also offers industry leading technology, such as AutoTrac guidance, TouchSet that allows operators to make adjustments to windrow shape and conditioning, as well as mowing documentation in John Deere Operations Center for easy job tracking and better decision making.

The W260M and merger option will be available at John Deere dealerships this fall.

About John Deere. Deere & Company is a global leader in the delivery of agricultural, turf, 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 technologyenabled products, including 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 us at www.deere.com

MERCK Animal Health News

Merck Animal Health Announces New User Friendly ALLFLEX CleanVax Nozzles and Shields for Intranasal Vaccination. Merck Animal Health recently announced new ALLFLEX CleanVax nozzles and shields for clean, fast, and convenient administration of intranasal vaccines to cattle. The CleanVax intranasal vaccination system includes shorter nozzles that are less invasive than conventional cannulas, as well as clear plastic disposable shields that can be replaced between animals or groups of animals for more hygienic administration.

“CleanVax nozzles and shields optimize every aspect of the intranasal vaccination process for confidence in a clean, consistent dose every time,” said Jonathon Townsend, D.V.M., Ph.D., dairy technical services for Merck Animal Health. “The system is simple to use and enhances calf comfort, hygiene, and consistency, making it easier on both the calf and caregiver.”

The following are the advantages of the CleanVax intranasal vaccination system:

• Calf friendly, shorter nozzles minimize discomfort;

• Atomizer tips ensure even distribution across mucosal surfaces and reduce product drip;

• Easy-to-use nozzles attach to any

brand of syringe or Luer lock applicator gun;

• Hygienic shields add a layer of protection and enhance biosecurity.

“CleanVax nozzles and shields are designed to make intranasal vaccine administration more hygienic, calf friendly, and consistent,” Dr. Townsend added. “As a leader in intranasal vaccination technologies, Merck Animal Health continues to advance cattle health and production with innovative and effective solutions for cattle producers.”

Merck Animal Health Introduces the ALLFLEX A-Tag Feedlot V2 Tag and Applicator. The redesigned tag and applicator save time and reduce stress on cattle and crews at arrival processing. Merck Animal Health recently announced the introduction of the redesigned ALLFLEX A-Tag Feedlot V2 and applicator as part of its comprehensive feedlot portfolio.

The updated tag design with a self piercing tip allows for easier application, faster loading, and improved retention, providing feedyard and stocker cattle operators with a new option for visual identification. The tag is accompanied by a new applicator that speeds loading and requires less force to tag cattle during arrival processing, which helps save time at arrival processing while reducing stress on cattle and crews.

“The cattle industry is evolving, and we’re right in step with our customers in helping them be more efficient and profitable in their operations,” said Bill McCoy, ALLFLEX beef business development manager for Merck Animal Health. “Customizing text, colors, and logos on visual ear tags like the new A-Tag provides feedlot managers ata-glance identification for pen units or lot loads, helping ensure that cattle are identified and grouped appropriately.”

The A-Tag is just one in a series of innovations Merck Animal Health offers for finishing cattle, from digital identification and readers to monitoring cattle behavior. Additional product introductions under the ALLFLEX brand include CleanVax nozzles and shields for clean, fast, and convenient administration of intranasal vaccines to cattle.

For more information about the comprehensive cattle portfolio from Merck Animal Health, visit MAHCattle. com

About Merck Animal Health. At Merck, known as MSD outside of the United States and Canada, we are unified around our purpose: We use the power of leading edge science to save and improve

lives around the world. For more than a century, we’ve been at the forefront of research, bringing forward medicines, vaccines, and innovative health solutions for the world’s most challenging diseases.

Merck Animal Health, a division of Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, N.J., is the global animal health business of Merck. Through its commitment to The Science of Healthier Animals ®, Merck Animal Health offers veterinarians, farmers, producers, 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-animalhealth.com

Ruffoni Joins BioZyme Marketing Team. Angie Ruffoni is the new Marketing Brand Manager – VitaFerm & Gain Smart for BioZyme Inc. In her role, she will develop and execute strategies to promote the product lines within the beef brands of VitaFerm and Gain Smart. She will collaborate with others to build awareness and drive sales across all products within these brands.

“I am excited to continue to work in the beef industry for a company that produces incredible products and is always innovative and forward thinking in meeting the needs of producers,” Ruffoni said. “I am looking forward to helping producers understand the benefits of animal health and the benefits that our products can bring to their operations.”

Ruffoni brings vast marketing and industry experience to BioZyme. She most recently worked as the

marketing manager for an ag technology company and has also worked as a marketing manager for a livestock pharmaceutical company. She previously owned a freelance marketing company specializing in agricultural businesses and photography. Ruffoni earned her degree in Strategic Marketing from Cornell University. She grew up involved in showing livestock on local, state, and national levels and was president of the National Junior Swine Association Board. She completed internships with Sure Champ and the National Pork Board.

“Having grown up feeding the BioZyme products and doing an internship with Sure Champ, it is fun to be back with a company that’s culture aligns with my professional and personal beliefs. The care that comes full circle is so evident at BioZyme with everything they do, and in every way that they give

back,” Ruffoni said.

“We are so excited to have Angie on our team. Her practical knowledge of our products and the way that she thinks strategically to position the products is going to be very exciting, especially as we start launching new products in the future. Angie already has hit the ground running and fits in so well with the rest of our team,” said Lori Lawrence, Senior Manager of Supplement Marketing for BioZyme.

Ruffoni will work remotely from her home in Santa Rosa, California. She enjoys attending livestock shows, spoiling her mini dachshunds, spending time with family, and cooking.

BioZyme connects fermentation and knowledge to inspire passionate solutions that promote valued partnerships in the animal health and nutrition industries. Its family of brands includes VitaFerm, Gain Smart, Sure Champ, DuraFerm, Vitalize, Backyard Boost, and AO-Biotics.

BioZyme Launches New Line of VitaFerm Cattle Mineral for All Seasons . BioZyme Inc. is excited to announce the launch of VitaFerm ONE,

a new line of cattle mineral products. VitaFerm ONE provides one solution to conveniently and consistently promote cattle performance in all seasons.

VitaFerm is a line of beef cattle vitamin and mineral supplements designed to promote cattle performance year round. VitaFerm ONE contains AOBiotics Amaferm, a prebiotic research proven to enhance digestibility. It meets or exceeds the nutrient requirements throughout the production cycle, and it is formulated with research proven organic copper and zinc for enhanced bioavailability.

The first product added to the line is the VitaFerm ONE free choice mineral. A pressed block is also currently under development, with an anticipated launch later in the quarter.

“We are excited to offer VitaFerm ONE for all producers. It is an effectively fortified supplement that offers cow/calf producers a simple way to ensure cattle are getting the nutrients they need year round. It provides one solution when putting out mineral to groups of cattle and/or when you have different pasture

scenarios to manage,” said Chris Cassady, Ph.D., BioZyme Director of Beef Technical Sales.

In addition to Amaferm, VitaFerm ONE is fortified to meet cattle nutritional needs year round using high quality ingredients. As Cassady points out, it simplifies the labor and management for those operations that might run cattle on multiple pastures with different types of forages or different groups of cows in various stages of production. VitaFerm ONE is one solution for all seasons.

ONE was first introduced during the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) Industry Convention and Annual Trade Show on January 31 in Orlando, Florida.

About BioZyme. 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 AO-Biotics ® , VitaFerm®, Gain Smart®, Vita Charge®, Sure Champ®, Vitalize®, DuraFerm®, and Backyard Boost®. With headquarters in St. Joseph, Missouri, the company reaches a global market of customers that stretches into countries across five continents. For more information about BioZyme, visit www.biozymeinc.com

News

By ROGER GATES, Southeast AgriSeed

Planning Spring Recovery

Pastures and hayfields throughout the Southeast have been subject to a “double whammy” at the end of 2023 and the start of the New Year. Drought conditions deepened in Texas in July and spread east through the lower South during the most important growth period for warm season perennials. Drought conditions then extended into the mid-South when cool season perennials normally initiate fall growth. Limited vegetation growth was often accompanied by overgrazing, further compromising the vigor of desirable forage plants.

Drought interrupted many plans for fall seeding, both overseeding cool season annuals and new or reinforcing plantings of cool season perennials.

Most recently, polar air contributed to cold temperatures that have been unseasonable in both the extent and duration of freezing conditions.

A welcome system of rainfall and warm temperatures will provide the opportunity to assess recovery, at least of cool season perennials. It would be a worthwhile investment to spend time examining cool season perennial pastures and hayfields, estimating both coverage and vigor as plants begin and continue spring growth. Don’t be surprised in April when you learn that the stand is half or less than what it was the previous year. Pastures and fields managed conservatively during the drought may be able to recover completely. Vegetation that was overgrazed or cut too short may have

NEWS

Turn employees from potential brand assassins to brand ambassadors at the Animal Agriculture Alliance’s 2024 Stakeholders Summit. Full agenda available on Summit website; register by March 8 to score the lowest rate. Food and agriculture companies spend a lot of time looking outward - focusing on external image, responding to pressure from adversarial groups, and finding new customers. In the process, these companies often overlook their most critical audience: employees. Hinda Mitchell, founder and president of Inspire PR Group, will share how to turn team members from potential brand assassins to brand ambassadors at the Animal Agriculture Alliance’s 2024 Stakeholders Summit. Check out the full agenda and register by March 8 for the lowest rates at https://bit.ly/AAA24

suffered considerable plant mortality.

Perennial stands that have 50 percent or better coverage and remain reasonably weed free may benefit from interseeding of cool season perennial grasses. While fall planting is recommended, early spring planting may improve perennial cover enough to delay or avoid complete renovation. Providing sufficient grazing deferment to allow perennial seedlings to establish will be essential. Grazing too soon will negate the potential benefit of new seeding.

If the remaining perennial coverage is half or less, renovation should be considered. When grazing is in short supply, overseeding a cool season annual, spring oats may be the best short term supplement. The spring annual might be followed by a warm season annual such as pearl millet or sorghum-sudangrass, anticipating an early fall planting of a replacement cool season perennial. Overseeding a warm season annual creates a trade off between providing grazable forage and maintaining any of the limited stand of cool season grass. The warm season annual will create considerable shading, which may compromise the survival of understory grass. Shading may also limit weed establishment, however, and ultimately benefit the establishment of a new perennial cool season stand.

Please contact us for suggestions and potential alternatives in your particular conditions.

The annual Summit is a one-of-akind conference attended by a diverse group of decision makers, including representatives from farms, ranches, allied industries, food processors, restaurants, grocery stores, legislatures, universities, government agencies, and media. The 2024 event is themed “Ready, Set, Solve! Advancing Animal Agriculture” and will be held May 8-9 in Kansas City, Missouri.

“The 2024 Summit attendees will be scoring big with a dynamic lineup of speakers and sessions,” said Abby Kornegay, manager of issues and engagement at Animal Agriculture Alliance. “The two day program will cover key topics and issues in agriculture, including how to navigate pressure and attacks from animal rights extremist groups. This includes outreach campaigns to current food and agriculture employees in attempts to gain sensitive information. Hinda’s session will be a great place to learn more about building employee engagement and loyalty to prevent these issues.”

In the session “Whose Team Are They On? How Employees Can Make or Break Your Brand,” Mitchell will explore employee engagement and its impact on recruitment and retention and focus on transparency and purpose as essential workforce strategies. Attendees will learn how to turn team members from potential brand assassins to brand ambassadors, audit their own employer brand, create lasting internal communications and

engagement programs that build culture, and secure that first line of defense, as employees can often be pressured by animal rights extremist groups to turn their back on their own team.

Mitchell leads Inspire PR Group, a national, multi-service public relations and marketing communications firm based in Columbus, Ohio. A trusted counselor to major C-suite executives, she is a sought-after strategic leader and crisis and issues manager for corporate leaders, manufacturers, food companies, higher education, and school districts. She has led crisis management for numerous high profile, challenging crises during her career, including recalls, labor negotiations, activism, and worker accidents. She has protected the reputations and preserved the brands of hundreds of businesses and organizations in her role. She has a passion for employee engagement and positioning major food brands as an employer of choice.

Thank you to our 2024 Summit sponsors: Farm Journal, Meatingplace, U.S. Poultry & Egg Association, Watt Global Media, Cargill, Zoetis, American Feed Industry Association, broadhead. + Filament, Merck, United Soybean Board, Dairy MAX, Farm Credit Council, National Pork Producers Council, Smithfield Foods, United Egg Producers, American Farm Bureau Federation, Cobb-Vantress, Inc., Edge Dairy Farmer Cooperative, Kemin, National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, National Chicken Council, National Pork Board, Phileo Lesaffre Animal Care, Progressive Dairy, Protect the Harvest, Sustainable Environmental Consultants, Trans Ova Genetics, Eggland’s Best, N.C. Farm Bureau, and Vivayic.

About the Animal Agriculture Alliance. The 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.

NCBA News

Wyoming Cattleman Becomes New NCBA President. Mark Eisele, a Wyoming rancher, ascended to the role of NCBA president during the 2024 Cattle Industry Convention, held this week in Orlando, Florida. Eisele, along with his wife, Trudy, and their children, operate the historic King Ranch near Cheyenne, Wyo., grazing both public and private lands.

The 2024 NCBA officer team, approved by the NCBA Board of Directors, took office at the end of this year’s convention. Buck Wehrbein of Nebraska was named president-elect, and Gene Copenhaver of Virginia was elected vice president. Kim Brackett of Idaho was elected chair of the NCBA Policy Division, and Skye Krebs of Oregon was elected policy vice chair. Dan Gattis of Texas and Nancy Jackson of Mississippi were elected as chair and vice chair, respectively, of the NCBA Federation division. Brad Hastings of Texas will continue to serve as NCBA treasurer.

Eisele’s focus during his time as president is to advocate for opportunities to strengthen the industry for future generations and for producers’ freedom to operate. Protecting property rights and reinforcing the cattle industry’s position as an ally in preserving open spaces and wildlife habitat through managed grazing practices will be a top priority.

“I manage both public and private lands and am often asked why protecting public land ranching is important. Aside from it being a part of how we raise cattle in the West, it’s also an important place to draw a line in the sand. If public lands are closed to cattle, or we’re regulated to the point that we can’t run cattle on public lands, it will only be a matter of time before activists end up on the doorstep of every farmer and rancher in the country, looking to restrict private property and water rights. I want NCBA to make sure that can’t happen,” he said. “Grazing is good and beef is a valuable protein. We

need flexibility in the way we produce it. Those are the simple messages I want to get across to decision makers.”

During the year ahead, Eisele also expects to tackle ongoing Farm Bill negotiations as NCBA works to secure reauthorization of animal health provisions, expand the accessibility and funding of risk management and disaster relief programs, and protect voluntary conservation programs. The significant challenge posed by federal government tax policies, particularly the Death Tax, will also be top of mind.

He expressed his commitment to advocating for producers in all segments of the industry. Eisele sees the year ahead as an opportunity to pay back the efforts of those who came before him. Acknowledging the influence of past leaders, Eisele explained that it’s critical for cattle and beef industry leaders to step up and lead while taking on the challenges of the future. “I believe in this industry. I believe in its people. I want to meet as many members as I can and hear stories about good things that have happened. I also want to hear stories about bad things that are occurring so we can find ways that NCBA can support our members and help solve the problems they face. In the year ahead, I plan to focus on these priorities while also opening opportunities for young leaders.”

“For me, one of the most meaningful things in my whole world is to have my family, my kids, my grandkids on the ranch with me. One of the reasons I want to serve, and do what I’m doing, is for my family. I also want to repay the mentors who gave me a leg up in the industry. And I’d like to do something significant

with my time here on the planet. The agricultural landscape is evolving, and I am confident that with the same spirit that has carried our association through the last 125 years, we will continue to thrive, innovate and lead,” Eisele said.

Eisele lives in Cheyenne, Wyo., where his family runs Red and Black Angus cow/calf pairs, retained yearlings that sell into branded programs, and a custom haying operation on the historic King Ranch.

The ranch runs cattle on both privately owned and public lands with state and federal grazing leases. Eisele understands the delicate balance that is protecting private property rights and maintaining access to public lands while increasing numbers of people want to experience the beauty of the West. The King Ranch was recognized in 2015 with the Leopold Conservation Award and Wyoming Stock Growers Environmental Stewardship Award. Eisele also served as the 51 st Wyoming Stock Growers Association president.

Both his parents came from ranching families, but he built most of their livestock business from scratch, starting with four cows and a little equipment. He experienced the difficulties of agriculture as a young person with little capital. Eisele realized that if his family and ranch were going to both survive and thrive, he had to rely on the guidance and support of his state and national associations and fellow producers. It’s this that drives him as NCBA president, wanting to open up as many opportunities as possible for people who want to participate and succeed in this business.

“As president of the Duplin County Cattlemen’s Association and a fellow cattleman, I encourage you to take five minutes of your time to speak with Donna Byrum. She introduced me to a program that I knew nothing about, and within six months she was on my doorstep with a check. The PRF program has been a blessing amid the changing climate and different extremes that all our farming operations have experienced.”

~ Joey Carter

DONNA BYRUM

First Choice Insurance

Eisele has been heavily involved in the NCBA since 2009, when he sat on the board of directors before serving on the Animal Health and Wellbeing Committee for eight years. Since his start with NCBA, Eisele has served many roles, including serving on the Nominating Committee, Public Lands Council - Legislative Session, Environmental Stewardship Award Wyoming (Region V), and being a Political Action Committee (PAC) donor.

Eisele has been married to his wife, Trudy, for 43 years and has three adult children - Colton, Kendall, and Kaycee. Together, they enjoy working the family operation, as well as outdoor recreation, hunting, and volunteering for organizations.

NCBA Backs FAIR Labels Act to End Deceptive Fake Meat Labeling Practices. Recently, the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) announced support for the bipartisan Fair and Accurate Ingredient Representation on Labels Act of 2024 (FAIR Labels Act) introduced by Senator Roger Marshall (R-Kan.), Representative Mark Alford

(R-Mo.), Representative Roger Williams (R-Tex.), Representative Don Davis (D-N.C.), and Representative Jonathan Jackson (D-Ill.). The bill would end deceptive labeling practices on fake meat products and ensure that consumers know exactly what they are buying at the grocery store.

“America’s farmers and ranchers work hard every day to bring a high quality, wholesome product to market. We’re not afraid of a little competition, but it is unfair for lab grown or plant

based fake meat products to trade on beef’s good name,” said NCBA President Todd Wilkinson, a South Dakota cattle producer. “This bill is especially important for ensuring that consumers recognize lab grown products that may be coming to market in the future. Consumers deserve to know how their food is made and to understand that lab grown products made in a bioreactor are not the same as the high quality beef raised by farmers and ranchers.”

The FAIR Labels Act would require

NEWS

Vytelle announces a strategic collaboration with Blocktrust Network to promote the value of feeder cattle on the basis of growth and efficiency, bringing more transparency to this critical market segment in the beef supply chain. Vytelle, the fastest growing, independent IVF company and curator of the world’s largest feed efficiency database, is pleased to announce a strategic collaboration with Blocktrust Network, an innovative, API driven platform to enhance transparency and efficiency in the beef supply chain. This collaboration marks the first of its kind aimed to leverage their respective strengths targeting the feeder cattle market. Leveraging the power of the Vytelle’s industry leadership in characterizing feed efficient genetics, Vytelle will develop tools to characterize differences in feed efficiency among groups of feeder cattle via the Blocktrust Network’s permissioned blockchain. This information will provide buyers unique insights on the value of cattle, shining a spotlight on the premium value of calves sired by bulls from breeding programs that are driving genetic improvement in feed efficiency, a critical driver of profitability and sustainability in cattle feeding.

“We are thrilled to embark on this groundbreaking collaboration with Blocktrust,” said Kerryann Kocher, CEO of Vytelle. She continued, “Vytelle has a long history of capturing individual standardized phenotypic feed intake and growth data with our network of progressive seedstock producers globally.” This collaboration is a step forward in building markets that acknowledge the value of premium genetics for Vytelle’s seedstock customers by increasing the demand for their progeny.

fake meat products to be labeled as “imitation,” to clearly differentiate between real meat and plant based or substitute protein products. The bill would also provide clarity on lab grown products, especially in light of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s approval of lab grown chicken. Lab grown products are created from animal cells that are artificially replicated in a laboratory environment. While no lab grown imitations of beef have been approved for sale in the United States, several companies are currently involved in research that could soon bring beef imitation lab grown products to market. Under the FAIR Labels Act, lab grown products would need to be clearly labeled as “lab grown” and bear a statement that the product was not produced by traditional farming and ranching methods.

“Blockchain technology has proven to be a transformative force across various industries and Blocktrust Network is thrilled to bring a new level of transparency to the beef supply chain”, said Gregg Barfield, CEO of Blocktrust Network. He commented further, “The opportunity to classify cattle individually based on their genetics and performance through harvest will unlock markets and value for smaller producers to participate in quality driven sustainable supply chains.”

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. For more information about Vytelle, please visit www.vytelle.com

About Blocktrust Network. Blocktrust Network is an innovative, API driven platform that leverages blockchain technology to enhance transparency and efficiency within the beef supply chain. The platform empowers producers to maximize the value of their cattle by securely and conveniently communicating essential performance indicators to potential buyers. Furthermore, Blocktrust Network serves as a dynamic portal for producers to demonstrate their dedication to crucial industry standards, including animal welfare, sustainable practices, and proactive carbon footprint reduction. This commitment not only aligns with the evolving demands of the beef industry but also positions its users at the forefront of responsible and ethical supply chain management. For more information, please visit blocktrustnetwork.com.

“Lab grown products are an emerging technology, and the FAIR Labels Act is an important first step for making sure consumers understand the difference between lab grown or plant based products and real beef raised by farmers and ranchers,” said NCBA Director of Animal Health and Food Safety Policy Rebecca Barnett. “NCBA thanks Senator Marshall, Representative Alford, Representative Williams, Representative Davis, and Representative Jackson for introducing this critical legislation that ensures American consumers know where their food comes from.”

NCBA Releases 2024 Policy

Priorities. The NCBA Executive Committee approved the organization’s policy priorities at the 2024 Cattle Industry Convention and NCBA Trade Show. This year’s priorities focus on advocating for the reauthorization of the Farm Bill, protecting cattle producers from federal regulatory overreach, and defending the U.S. cattle industry against external attacks.

“NCBA will continue pushing for passage of a Farm Bill that includes key animal health and voluntary conservation provisions, as well as hold the line against all federal policies that could damage the

livelihoods of U.S. cattle producers,” said NCBA President-Elect and Wyoming cattle rancher Mark Eisele. “In the past year, we have seen radical animal activists ramp up their attacks on our industry and our producer funded Beef Checkoff that drives consumer demand and funds critical research. We will never let the same people that want to shut down family cattle operations dictate how we promote our products.”

NCBA’s policy priorities include:

• Secure reauthorization of the animal health provisions in the 2018 Farm Bill and advocate for expanded funding of the National Animal Vaccine and Veterinary Countermeasures Bank (NAVVCB) to protect against Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD).

• Defend the U.S. cattle industry against radical animal activist groups that want to end cattle production, including the Beef Checkoff.

• Fight against misguided Endangered Species Act rules and any expansion of bureaucratic red tape under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA).

• Preserve family farms and ranches for future generations by advocating for essential tax relief for cattle producers.

“Despite our success last year in finally reducing the size and scope of the onerous Waters of the U.S. rule, many more misguided regulations have been proposed that undermine the voluntary conservation work of cattle producers. NCBA will stand strong against these rule makings – setting the record straight on regulations that are not backed by science and would leave America’s rangelands in total disorder,” Eisele added.

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

Our advertisers are “Champions” too. For expert A.I., superior genetics, the best in purebreds and outstanding farm supplies, check the Classifieds in this issue!

NEWS

Q&A With a Veterinarian — Bovine Lameness

Lameness is one of the costliest animal health issues impacting the cattle industry, and it’s a topic of great interest to Lacey Fahrmeier, DVM, Valley Vet Supply Technical Service Veterinarian. During her time at Kansas State University, she researched bovine lameness and treated several cases at her veterinary clinic in Southern Montana.

Better understand this animal health risk – and read to the end for her No. 1 key takeaway for producers – in this Q&A with Dr. Fahrmeier.

Q: Why is bovine lameness such a condition of interest to you, Dr. Fahrmeier? “Not only is it one of the costliest animal health issues to our industry, it’s also a major animal welfare concern that we can mitigate. During my time at Kansas State University, I was fortunate to be part of a team that conducted bovine lameness research. And being raised in the purebred side of the beef business I saw first hand how important structural correctness, foot angle and hoof health were to a breeding program’s success and longevity. It’s obvious that from a business perspective, lameness is a big issue. Additionally, it’s a growing welfare concern. We all strive for our cattle to be healthy and maximize their genetic potential. Unfortunately, the chronic pain caused by lameness can lead to rapid deterioration and becomes a serious welfare issue. Minimizing the amount and length of time those animals are in discomfort is crucial.”

Q: What negative implications, in addition to overall welfare, can result from lameness? “Bovine lameness is the second most costly animal health issue in the beef industry, next to bovine respiratory disease. It costs the industry in decreased weight gain and its negative impact on longevity in the cow herd. When cattle are lame, their cortisol levels rise due to the severe pain. This increase in stress hormones can negatively impact a bull’s semen quality and also lead to reduced cow fertility and higher rates of early embryonic death loss. A huge hit to our industry’s bottom line, of course, is lost performance in the form of decreased weight gain when those lame cattle aren’t getting to the bunk as frequently or out grazing.”

Q: What causes lameness in cattle?

“Nutrition can be a big contributing factor to lameness and is one that we can actually control. When cattle are fed a high carbohydrate, “hot” ration and do not receive enough forage in the diet, we can see rumen acidosis develop (meaning their rumen pH is too low from the excessive carbohydrates they’re ingesting). This can lead to poor hoof horn development and conditions like White Line disease and Laminitis (more commonly known as ‘founder’) that lead to chronic pain and inflammation.

Genetics definitely contribute to lameness risk. When purchasing new genetics or deciding which animals to retain in your herd, place a high priority on good hoof quality (no cracks or overgrowth), proper foot angle, and structural correctness to prevent lameness issues down the road. Many hoof problems have been proven to be heritable.

The environment can also be a factor. Running cattle in rough country with lots of sharp rocks and difficult terrain can cause abrasions in the skin and hooves. In challenging environments, you may need to check cattle more often to make sure that bacteria haven’t taken advantage of that opportunity to invade where the skin barrier has been damaged. Having freestanding water and excess mud in pastures can predispose cattle to more foot rot issues as well. Concrete flooring, whether in dairies or in working systems, wears down their toes, which causes the soles to become thinner. This can also lead to toe abscesses and infection in the P3 bone located at the end of their toe.”

Q: With regard to treatment, what should producers consider? “With the advent of dart guns, pasture doctoring looks a bit different than it once did. I still believe there is value in closely assessing the foot (where 90 percent of lameness is located). Some lameness cases are as simple as a rock between their toes or a sole/toe ulcer that needs to be opened up. Pulling up that foot to see what’s really going on can guide you in the best direction to go for treatment and help you determine if it’s something you need to consult your veterinarian on or take to them for more aggressive treatment.”

Q: What is the No. 1 takeaway for producers as it relates to lameness? “The sooner that you recognize and intervene in these lameness cases the better your outcomes will be. I can’t emphasize strongly enough that if you treat a suspected case of ‘foot rot’ with antibiotics and they don’t show significant improvement in a couple days, they need to be seen by a veterinarian, or at least caught and re-evaluated. Don’t just give another round of antibiotics and waste valuable time while the issue worsens.”

Visit ValleyVet.com to continue learning and to help ensure livestock health.

About Valley Vet Supply. Valley Vet Supply was founded in 1985 by veterinarians to provide customers with trusted animal health solutions. Building on over half a century of experience in veterinary medicine, Valley Vet Supply serves equine, pet, and livestock owners with thousands of products and medications. With an in-house pharmacy licensed in all 50 states and verified through the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy (NABP), Valley Vet Supply is the dedicated source for customers’ horse, livestock, and pet needs. For more information, please visit ValleyVet.com

NCBA PresideNt’s rePort

By TODD WILKINSON National Cattlemen’s Beef Association

A United Voice and Vision

It is with heartfelt thanks that I am writing this final column. The opportunity to serve as the president of the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association has been a true honor.

Having been involved in various committees of NCBA for many years, I have long appreciated the impact of an organization built from the grassroots and based upon the beliefs of producers across the country. As I advanced into leadership positions, that appreciation grew, and I came to realize the good things producers can do when their voices are amplified by an organization that works for the future of our industry.

As an officer and especially as president, the effectiveness and the power of our organization became even more apparent. Many times, we all are so involved in our own operations that we fail to appreciate what we accomplish as an organization.

NCBA members represent the heart and soul of the cattle industry. Whatever your job description, we share a common belief in a business that represents America and what it stands for. Big or small, it doesn’t matter, as each of us is proud to be a part of the cattle business. Whatever your job description, the cattle industry is made up of some of the best people in the world.

To the staff of NCBA, I am humbled by your commitment and dedication. Time and time again, it has been made very clear that many do not just work at NCBA; rather, you believe in NCBA, its mission, and the grassroots producers it represents. Performing your duties for a paycheck is one thing, but believing in your job and the organization is another. Some of you reading this have experienced first hand the remarkable job our NCBA team does every day and will appreciate when I say we all need to say a heartfelt thank you.

Our industry is facing challenges our parents and grandparents would have never envisioned. But one theme has held fast for 125 years — producers united in vision and voice can make a difference. Our task and our duty is to continue that vision and project a unified voice to ensure tomorrow, and for hundreds of years to come, our children and grandchildren and their descendants will be involved in the cattle business, and NCBA will be the bedrock upon which our industry stands.

As I leave my role as president, I strive to ensure future generations will have the opportunity to experience a truly remarkable industry. An industry where your word is your bond and a handshake still means something. Thank you for allowing me the privilege to serve as your NCBA president.

A MessAge froM the Ceo

By COLIN WOODALL National Cattlemen’s Beef Association

Accountability — Part 1

As I write my piece each month for the National Cattlemen, I try to focus on timely and relevant issues. Every once in a while, though, I believe it is important to revisit the basics of how the association works. This month, I would like to talk about accountability.

NCBA is a non-profit trade association that relies on several income streams to fund the work we do. Member dues fund the policy work we take on, and Checkoff dollars fund our work as a contractor to the national Beef Checkoff and the work we do as the home of the Federation of State Beef Councils. As we have talked about before, Checkoff dollars can never be used for policy work. However, we can use policy dollars to protect and defend the Checkoff. So, how do we keep it all straight?

We have an internal accounting system rivaling anything you would find in a small corporation. We utilize project codes to account for every dollar we spend. These project codes are part of the financial firewall, which ensures funds are used according to their specific purpose by allowing us to track time and expenses associated with every action we take. Our financial firewall is enforced, monitored, and audited by our in-house compliance officer, whose sole job is to ensure we are always in compliance with the Beef Promotion and Research Act and Order.

Each new employee receives compliance training as part of their new employee orientation and onboarding process. Compliance with the Act and Order is constantly reinforced through my messages to staff, compliance officer engagement with staff, and senior leader enforcement of compliance within their teams. One tool we use is our timekeeping system; every NCBA employee must account for the time they spend each day at work. Entries are logged to account for every 15 minutes of time worked. That time is associated with one of the project codes mentioned above. These timesheets are submitted twice a month. We have a member of our accounting team who

reviews and audits the time submitted to ensure our compliance with the Act and Order. Once our internal process is complete, our timesheets are reviewed by the Cattlemen’s Beef Board (CBB) staff to ensure we are complying with the Act and Order.

NCBA’s compliance officer conducts annual means testing meant to verify our internal processes and procedures work. The annual means testing shows time and again that our system is robust and works to protect Checkoff dollars from being used on lobbying or policy issues. Compliance, though, transcends our internal controls. We are consistently audited by CBB for compliance with the Act, Order, and our contractor agreement. We are also subject to audits by USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service and the Office of Inspector General.

As I just mentioned, we sign a contractor agreement with CBB to conduct our work in compliance with the Act and Order. As part of that, we maintain a banking account reserved only for Checkoff dollars. Each year, NCBA hires an outside accounting firm to do a complete audit of our financial position. This includes our compliance with all applicable laws. That audit is reviewed by NCBA’s Finance & Audit Committee, which is led by NCBA’s treasurer and made up of volunteer producer leaders whose job is to ensure our compliance and evaluate the financial position of the association. NCBA’s external auditors also perform a yearly financial firewall test as part of their audit. The Finance & Audit Committee met in Denver in December to review the audit and have an Executive Session with the auditors where NCBA staff were not present. This is yet another level of scrutiny to ensure accountability.

In addition to all our compliance and audit functions, it is important to note the role of CBB and USDA in approving our work. We must have CBB and USDA approval for work we do with Checkoff dollars. For example, if we want to

produce a Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner. recipe book, we must get approval from CBB and USDA to conduct that project. If we do not have approval, we will not be reimbursed for the work done. The Beef Checkoff has a program called the Authorization Request Management System (ARMS) that monitors these projects and provides the approval needed before we commence work. The ARMS

number must be associated with that work and included in the project expenses we submit for reimbursement.

I will continue this discussion in next month’s article, but in the meantime, I hope this helps you understand the lengths we go to remain in compliance with the Act and Order, especially in ensuring no Checkoff money is ever spent on NCBA’s policy work.

federation of state Beef CoUnCils Update

The Value of Beef in the Shopping Cart. For shoppers dining at home, an ongoing nationally representative study among consumers ages 18-64, conducted by NCBA, a contractor to the Beef Checkoff, found taste and value for their money remain a primary consideration for protein purchase considerations.1 Other considerations like food safety, preparation familiarity, and a great source of protein are also among the top ten considerations for consumers when choosing a protein for dining at home. Rounding out the top ten as a consideration for dining at home, quick/fast to prepare.

up just more than 10 percent of grocery store purchases.

The average market basket of consumers’ recent grocery store visit is just less than $90. When consumers add beef, the value increases more than 30 percent to just more than $115.3 When consumers include both beef and beer in the market basket, the value increases to just more than $135 or more than a 50 percent increase above the average grocery spend. The inclusion of beef and wine in the shopping cart results in a market basket increase of just more than $143, or an

Whether consumers are heading to the store to stock pantries or pick up a meal, beef is a top protein choice. Another recent nationally representative study by NCBA, a contractor to the Beef Checkoff, found that 45 percent of respondents purchased beef in their most recent visit to the grocery store, while 43 percent purchased poultry, followed by 37 percent purchasing pork.2 Meat alternatives made

increase of more than 60 percent compared to the average grocery spend of $89.

Grocery store shoppers are heading to the store online and in person to stock their shelves, pick up items for the week, or find something to eat that day. The research shows that 45 percent of consumers purchased beef in their recent visit, the highest noted protein purchase among beef, poultry, pork, seafood, and

meat alternatives. Beef increases overall shopping basket value by more than $25. When adding any alcohol to the shopping cart, an incremental value can be reached of more than $45.3 In short, adding beef to the shopping basket has the potential to generate incremental consumer spend across all areas of the grocery store.

Sources

1Consumer Beef Tracker January – June 2023. Q9/9a: “How much do you consider each of the following when you are deciding to have a meal at home/at a restaurant with beef, chicken, pork, fish, meat alternatives, or some other source of protein?”

“Top 2 Box” – Always Consider, Often Consider. Survey designed and analyzed by National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, a contractor to the Beef Checkoff.

2Market basket study, Survey, October 2023. PureSpectrum - *Now, we’d like

to understand the items you purchased. Thinking only about your most recent visit to the store for food and related items, please tell us which of the following you purchased. Select all that apply.

Survey designed and analyzed by National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, a contractor to the Beef Checkoff.

3 Market basket study, Survey, October 2023. PureSpectrum Now, thinking specifically about your meat, poultry, and/or seafood purchases, please provide the amount spent on each using the dollar amounts listed below.

Now, thinking specifically about your alcoholic beverage purchases, please provide the amount spent on each using the dollar amounts listed below. Survey designed and analyzed by National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, a contractor to the Beef Checkoff.

UPDATE

By DAN KIFFEN, BQA Program

Beef Quality Audit Continues to Pay Dividends for the Entire Industry

I was born into the livestock industry, and I’ve enjoyed working with the great people in this industry my whole life. Over the years, I’ve been able to develop and raise a personal herd of purebred cattle. I’ve also spent more than 40 years working with students, currently at Penn State University as the cow/calf beef extension specialist and as an animal science professor. I enjoy helping students better understand the many facets of beef production. Take it from me — it’s true when they say if you love what you’re doing, no day ever seems like work.

I’m also just one of many people who’ve chosen to volunteer and give back to this industry that’s provided the lifestyle we love. I’ve had the pleasure of serving several terms on the Cattlemen’s Beef Board (CBB) and am a member of the Beef Quality Assurance program’s

Have you forgotten something?

Make sure your cattlemen friends are members of your state association!

advisory group. Through the CBB, I’ve developed some great friendships and dedicated considerable time and effort to ensuring the prudent investment of Beef Checkoff dollars. One of those investments is the National Beef Quality Audit (NBQA), which has taken place every five years since 1991.

NBQA helps us better understand what “quality” means to different beef industry sectors and the value of those quality attributes. The audit helps the beef industry discover what we should change to increase the value of our products. The Beef Quality Assurance Advisory Group develops the questions asked in each NBQA and ensures consistency with previous audits to permit a year-overyear data comparison. Then, we meet to review and discuss the audit results in great detail with our group and the research team that conducts the audit to develop consistent messaging.

After seeing the results of the first NBQA back in ‘91, I thought, “We have a lot of work to do.” And we did. But through a vigorous, industry wide effort, we’ve tackled the challenges uncovered by that audit and the ones that followed. For example, the first NBQA raised the issue of injection site lesions that consumers found concerning and distasteful. Just a few short years later, injection site lesions were almost nonexistent.

Over the years, as the NBQA advanced through its five year cycle, the industry continued to measure and manage challenges with the same quick attention and turnaround. To get a better handle on consumer perceptions, the audit now includes a section with input from an in-person consumer survey. Implementing this survey gives us the opportunity to discuss the resulting data at producer meetings around the country.

The most recent NBQA took place in 2022. After looking at that audit’s results, I was pleased to see the industry’s continued progress toward the goals specified in our Long Range Plan. We’ve significantly improved efficiency across the entire supply chain, and that’s helped

control our production costs, which benefits all consumers.

Additionally, it’s intriguing to see from this audit that consumers are far less concerned about food safety. They now simply expect our product to be safe without question – because we’ve taken the steps to ensure it is. We also found that more producers are adopting electronic ID for interstate movement of cattle, which should improve beef access to additional international markets. We’re also seeing more prime and choice carcasses available due to slower packing plant operations during the pandemic. As a result, more cattle remained in feedlots longer, gaining more weight, and getting into better condition than they might have during a typical production year. Given today’s low cattle inventories, this situation is likely to change as cattle in the feedlot sector cycle out.

The NBQA remains one of the

best ways for our industry to get a handle on current beef industry data and trends. Without the audit, we would lose the opportunity to manage beef quality because we’re not measuring its performance. As we’ve identified areas requiring improvement, beef industry stakeholders have come together and developed effective plans to address those issues. Without the continued checks and balances that the audit provides, beef would likely lose market share, something no beef producer wants. Our livelihoods depend on the NBQA.

With the perspective of time, it’s plain to see that investing Checkoff dollars in the NBQA has returned significant dividends to producers and the entire beef industry. You may know the adage, “If you don’t measure it, you can’t manage it.” That’s exactly what the first NBQA did back in 1991 and continues to do today.

2024 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 2024. 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.

2024 Reserved Spotlight Issues

RECAP

CattleCon24 Kicks Off in Sunshine State. Thousands of cattle producers, industry partners, and stakeholders arrived in Orlando, Fla., for CattleCon24. The largest cattle industry event in the country offered education, engagement, and entertainment on January 31 through February 2.

This year’s event begins in patriotic fashion with Anna Sponheim, winner of the 11th Annual NCBA National Anthem Contest, singing the “Star Spangled Banner.” Buzz Brainard, the host of Music Row Happy Hour, returned as convention emcee and introduced opening general session speaker Jon Dorenbos, a former professional football player and sleight-of-hand magician.

The Beef Checkoff funded Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) program’s Celebration of Excellence honored BQA award winners and featured keynote speaker Jim Carroll, renowned futurist and author. Throughout CattleCon, the 31st Annual Cattlemen’s College included educational sessions with industry leaders tackling innovative topics.

Other highlights included a D.C. Issues update, a Sustainability Forum, and business meetings. Annual meetings of the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, the Cattlemen’s Beef Board, American National CattleWomen, CattleFax, and National Cattlemen’s Foundation also took place.

The Cattle Feeders Hall of Fame banquet and Environmental Stewardship Award Program reception recognized leaders for their achievements, and there were more than eight acres of trade show displays and exhibitors to explore. CattleFax conducted their U.S. & Global Protein and Grain Outlook Session on Friday morning. Randy Blach, the team at CattleFax, and meteorologist Matt Makens discussed what 2024 and beyond might look like for the cattle industry.

In addition to conducting business in the beef industry, CattleCon attendees enjoyed entertainment and family fun throughout the event. Paul Bogart brought his down-to-earth charm and country music to Thursday night’s Palm Tree Pachanga, and The Bellamy Brothers headlined the Cowboys & Coasters event on Friday night. For more information,

visit convention.ncba.org

CattleFax Forecasts Continued Producer Profitability with Herd Expansion on the Horizon. The popular CattleFax Outlook Seminar, held as part of the 2024 Cattle Industry Convention and NCBA Trade Show in Orlando, Florida, shared expert market and weather analysis.

The smallest beef cow inventory in the last 50 years and historically strong demand led to the highest average fed cattle and calf prices in 2023. As reduced cattle numbers and beef production continue over the next three years, leverage and profitability will continue to favor cattle producers.

Despite record prices, the expansion will likely be delayed once again. Lingering drought, high input costs, limited labor availability, high interest rates, and market uncertainty all serve as headwinds against growing the cow herd. The current cattle cycle anticipates slower and more prolonged expansion, with heifer retention causing a supply decline with expected lows in fed slaughter by 2026. Higher cattle prices and reduced feeding costs will continue to improve margins for cow/calf producers for the next several years, a much needed improvement to drive expansion as weather patterns allow, according to CattleFax.

After several months of watching El Niño’s influence on the global weather pattern, Meteorologist Matt Makens said the El Niño event that placed moisture on the South and Southeast is fading away, and La Niña is showing signs of making a rapid return.

“During the next several weeks, we will continue to see strong and wet storm systems move across the central and southern states. Increased odds for snow and cold as far south as Texas will mean possible impacts on calving and wheat,” he said. “Take this moisture now and make the most of it; look for a good start to this grazing season overall but be mindful that drought conditions will increase for the Southern Plains during summer and fall as we see our pattern change quickly.”

As La Niña’s influence grows, increased heat and drought related issues

are expected for the Central and Southern Plains. The moisture pattern will favor the northern tier of states and the Ohio to Tennessee Valleys.

Kevin Good, vice president of market analysis at CattleFax, reported that the U.S. beef cow herd declined 2 percent, with inventories at 28.2 million head at the beginning of this year.

“Though drought conditions did improve in many regions, over a third of the cow herd was affected by drought in

2023, causing limited heifer retention and more liquidation in some regions. This will limit growth to the cow herd nearterm,” Good said.

Cow and bull slaughter is forecast to be 6.5 million head in 2024, down around 800,000 head from 2023. CattleFax predicted feeder cattle and calf supplies outside of feedyards will be 1 million head smaller than 2023 at 24.1 million head. Commercial fed slaughter in 2024 is forecast to decline by 750,000 to 24.8

National Ag Day

The Agriculture Council of America (ACA) announced March 19 will be National Agriculture Day with the theme of “Agriculture: Growing a Climate for Tomorrow.”

Activities planned for March 19 feature a virtual Ag Day program and inperson events in Washington, D.C. ACA will invite students to interact virtually with legislators and agency representatives, delivering the Ag Day message. A core leadership team of college students will participate in the D.C. events, along with representatives of national farm and commodity organizations and representatives of the food, fuel, and fiber communities.

Jenny Pickett, ACA President, says students from AFA, 4-H, FFA, and MANNRS participated in the 2023 National Ag Day. “Students are interested in advocating on behalf of agriculture and their future roles in the industry. Their participation in National Ag Day activities provides a glimpse of the future of agriculture. It’s exciting to learn from the students what they think agriculture will be like in the years ahead, and how their involvement will shape the industry and America as a whole.”

According to USDA Economic Research Service* more than 22 million full and part time jobs were related to the agricultural and food sector, or roughly 10 percent of all U.S. employment. On-farm jobs represented about 2.6 million jobs, or a little over one percent of U.S. employment. Take that a step further, agriculture- and food related jobs totaled more than 19 million.

“More and more, students and individuals are finding careers in agriculture. The industry needs scientists, biologists, food safety technicians, livestock nutrition specialists, arborists, conservationists – one doesn’t have to be a farmer or have a direct on-farm job to be involved in the agriculture industry,” Pickett says.

The 2024 National Ag Day marks the 51st year of the nationwide effort to share real stories of American agriculture and remind citizens that agriculture affects everyone. “From the food we eat and the fuel for our vehicles to the fiber in the clothes we wear, and the oil used to make kids’ crayons, agriculture touches everyone in some way,” Pickett says.

The National Ag Day program encourages every American to:

• Understand how food, fiber, and fuel products are produced.

- Appreciate the role agriculture plays in providing safe, abundant, and affordable products.

• Value the essential role of agriculture in maintaining a strong economy.

- Acknowledge and consider career opportunities in the agriculture, food, and fiber industries.

In addition to the events on March 19, the ACA will offer the Ag Day Essay Contest. Interested students would create video essays on the topic of Agriculture in the Future: If I had two minutes to talk to a farmer.” The winning video essay will be presented on National Ag Day.

Visit www.agday.org for more information.

About Agriculture Council of America. Agriculture Council of America, a nonprofit organization composed of leaders in the agricultural, food, and fiber community, organizes annual activities that are part of a national effort to increase the public’s awareness of agriculture’s role in modern society.

million head.

Cattle on feed inventories began in 2024, up about 2 percent at 11.9 million head. Good noted, “Though inventories may remain somewhat elevated for a few months, they are expected to decline significantly through the second half of the year.”

After about a 1.3 billion pound decline in 2023, beef production is expected to be down another billion pounds in 2024 to total about 25.9 billion pounds. The decline in production in 2024 will lead to a 1.7 pound decline in net beef supply to 56 pounds per person.

Mike Murphy, CattleFax’s chief operating officer, forecasted the average 2024 fed steer price at $184/cwt., up $9/ cwt. from 2023. All cattle classes are expected to trade higher, and prices are expected to continue to trend upward. The 800 lb. steer price is expected to average $240/cwt., and the 550 lb. steer price is expected to average $290/cwt. Utility cows are expected to average $115/cwt., with bred cows at an average of $2,600/ cwt.

“When thinking about what demand looks like, we need to think about what our consumer looks like with the U.S. economy being the driving factor going into 2024,” Good said. “Though inflation has moderated, consumer debt and interest rates, cheaper alternative proteins, and economic uncertainty may limit spending and impact purchasing decisions.”

The 2024 USDA All Fresh Retail Beef prices are expected to average $7.90/pound, and while higher beef prices may soften consumer purchasing habits, Good predicted the consumer preference for the quality, consistency, and safety of U.S. beef will continue to support relatively strong demand. “Premiums for higher quality beef should remain as consumers have shown a willingness to pay for Choice grade or better beef.”

Global protein demand has continued to rise around the world, and tighter global protein supplies should broadly support prices in 2024. U.S. beef exports saw large declines in 2023, down about 13 percent, and another 5 percent decline is expected in 2024, driven by smaller U.S. production and higher prices. Japan and South Korea remain the top U.S. beef export destinations.

Troy Bockelmann, CattleFax director of protein and grain analysis, said national December 1 on-farm hay stocks were up 6.9 percent from a year ago at 76.7 million tons with hay prices averaging $220/ton in 2023. “Another good hay crop needs to be seen in 2024, to help rebuild stocks from the lows in 2022 and return prices to a more historically normal

range. The first half of 2024 will likely see prices supported at more elevated levels before dropping by roughly $30/ton following harvest.”

He noted that corn stocks-to-use are at just under 15 percent and should keep the market below $5.50/bu. with a yearly average price of $5.00/bu. expected. “Overall, when thinking about watch items for 2024, look at March perspectives planting report, soybean

exports, and the total principal crop acres.”

On the energy front, Bockelmann said that, for 2024, not much will change. He said crude oil is expected to average around $80/barrel and noted that the geopolitical environment will be the driver of price relative to oil markets.

Randy Blach, CattleFax chief executive officer, concluded the session with an overall positive outlook and

noted that the current cattle cycle will be much slower and prolonged compared to the last as heifer retention has not yet started on a nationwide basis. He expects the peak in cattle prices is likely to occur in 2025-2026, and, in the meantime, industry profitability will continue to swing in favor of the cow/calf producer as excess feeding and packing capacity chases a declining supply of feeder cattle and calves.

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

BLACK GROVE

Breeding Registered Angus since 1962

Walter D. Shealy III and Family 20977 US Hwy 76 • Newberry, SC 29108

Walter Shealy • 803-924-1000

Dixon Shealy • 803-629-1174 walter@blackgrove.com • dixon@blackgrove.com www.blackgrove.com

SPRINGFIELD ANGUS 104 Springfield Lane Louisburg, NC 27549

Phil Goodson: 919-880-9062

• Performance Tested

• Ultrasound and 50K Evaluated

• Registered Angus Bulls

THE YON FAMILY

318 Aiken Road • Ridge Spring, SC 29129 www.yonfamilyfarm.com

Angus • SimAngus • Ultrablacks

BBU

and Females WHITEHALL BEEFMASTERS

Joe and Ann Logan

214 Cowhead Creek Road Greenwood, SC 29646

Telephone: 864-538-3004

www.huntsbrangus.com

Calhoun, GA 770-548-7950

“Cattle with Something Extra”

Cattle Available Private Treaty

John Wheeler • 910-489-0024 doublejfarm@yahoo.com • www.doublejfarmllc.com

Headquarters - 775 Clacton Circle • Earlysville, VA 22936

REGISTERED POLLED HEREFORDS • EST. 1998 “Quality Cattle For Quality People” Cattle located in Traphill, N.C.

CATTLE FOR

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

Norris Fowler - 864-219-0182

Greg - 864-426-7337 • Rogers - 864-426-3281

www.fowkenfarm.com

October 19, 2024

Jonathan Massey 336-260-2565 • jonathan.massey2@gmail.com

Johnny Massey

336-214-4144 • johnnymassey.1@gmail.com

ANGUS

Mar. 2 — Gibbs Farms Inaugural Spring Sale, Ranburne, Ala.

Mar. 9 — March Madness Cattle Sale of the Carolinas, Monroe, N.C.

Mar. 15 — S.C. Angus Association

Annual Meeting & Banquet, Clemson, S.C.

Mar. 16 — 51st Annual Carolina Angus Futurity, Clemson, S.C.

Mar. 23 — CEGO Enterprises Private Treaty Bull Sale, Cerro Gordo, N.C.

Mar. 23 — 45th Annual Southwest Virginia Performance Tested Bull Sale, Wytheville, Va.

Mar. 23 — BCIA Influenced Virginia Premium Assured Plus Bred Heifer Sale, Wytheville, Va.

Mar. 30 — G&E Virginia Premium Assured Heifer Sale, Gretna, Va.

Apr. 6 — Grassy Valley Angus 31st Annual Production Sale, Greeneville, Tenn.

Apr. 6 — Green Hills Gelbvieh & Hope

Cattle Services Spring Turn Out Sale, Oxford, N.C.

Apr. 13 — Knoll Crest Farm Spring Bull & Female Sale, Red House, Va.

Apr. 13 — Southern Synergy 17th Annual Female Production Sale, Wadley, Ga.

Apr. 19 — 35th Annual Virginia Angus Association Genetic Investment Sale, Harrisonburg, Va.

May 4 — Whitestone Farm 31st Annual Pasture Performance Tested Angus Bull & Female Sale, Aldie, Va.

Sep. 28 — Biltmore Livestock Sale, Asheville, N.C.

Oct. 19 — Fred Smith Company Ranch

Extra Effort Fall Sale, Clayton, N.C.

Oct. 25 — Yon Family Farms Maternal

Roots Fall Female Sale, Saluda, S.C.

Oct. 26 — Yon Family Farms Maternal Roots Fall Bull Sale, Saluda, S.C.

Nov. 2 — TJB Balancer Maternal Magic XIII Bull Sale, Chickamauga, Ga.

Dec. 7 — 49th Annual Union County Performance Tested Bull Sale, Monroe, N.C.

2025

Jan. 4 — EBS Farms Select Bull & Female Sale, Norwood, N.C.

Brangus

Oct. 25 — Yon Family Farms Maternal

Roots Fall Female Sale, Saluda, S.C.

Oct. 26 — Yon Family Farms Maternal Roots Fall Bull Sale, Saluda, S.C.

CHAROLAIS

Mar. 23 — Floyd Wampler Retirement Celebration, Bristol, Va.

Mar. 23 — 45th Annual Southwest Virginia Performance Tested Bull Sale, Wytheville, Va.

VENTS

Mar. 23 — BCIA Influenced Virginia

Premium Assured Plus Bred Heifer Sale, Wytheville, Va.

Apr. 6 — Green Hills Gelbvieh & Hope

Cattle Services Spring Turn Out Sale, Oxford, N.C.

Apr. 19 — Quest for Quality Bull Sale, Harrisonburg, Va.

CHIANINA

Mar. 23 — CEGO Enterprises Private Treaty Bull Sale, Cerro Gordo, N.C.

GELBVIEH

Mar. 23 — 45th Annual Southwest Virginia

Performance Tested Bull Sale, Wytheville, Va.

Mar. 23 — BCIA Influenced Virginia

Premium Assured Plus Bred Heifer Sale, Wytheville, Va.

Apr. 6 — Green Hills Gelbvieh & Hope

Cattle Services Spring Turn Out Sale, Oxford, N.C.

Apr. 13 — Knoll Crest Farm Spring Bull & Female Sale, Red House, Va.

Nov. 2 — TJB Gelbvieh Maternal Magic

XIII Bull Sale, Chickamauga, Ga.

Dec. 7 — 49th Annual Union County

Performance Tested Bull Sale, Monroe, N.C.

HEREFORD

Mar. 9 — March Madness Cattle Sale of the Carolinas, Monroe, N.C.

Mar. 22 — N.C. Hereford Association

Annual Meeting & Banquet, Statesville, N.C.

Mar. 23 — 56th Annual N.C. Hereford Classic Sale, Union Grove, N.C.

Mar. 23 — 45th Annual Southwest Virginia

Performance Tested Bull Sale, Wytheville, Va.

Mar. 23 — BCIA Influenced Virginia

Premium Assured Plus Bred Heifer Sale, Wytheville, Va.

Apr. 6 — Green Hills Gelbvieh & Hope

Cattle Services Spring Turn Out Sale, Oxford, N.C.

Apr. 13 — Knoll Crest Farm Spring Bull & Female Sale, Red House, Va.

Apr. 19 — Virginia Hereford Association

Mid-Atlantic Spring Bonanza Sale, Harrisonburg, Va.

Limousin

Apr. 6 — Green Hills Gelbvieh & Hope

Cattle Services Spring Turn Out Sale, Oxford, N.C.

Maine Anjou

Mar. 23 — CEGO Enterprises Private Treaty Bull Sale, Cerro Gordo, N.C.

Red Angus

Mar. 9 — March Madness Cattle Sale of the Carolinas, Monroe, N.C.

Apr. 6 — Green Hills Gelbvieh & Hope

Cattle Services Spring Turn Out Sale, Oxford, N.C.

SALERS

Apr. 6 — Southern Eagle Ranch Generations of Genetics Sale, Evington, Va.

Santa gertrudis

Mar. 9 — March Madness Cattle Sale of the Carolinas, Monroe, N.C.

May 11 — Santa Gertrudis Breeders of the Carolinas 51st Annual Sale, Monroe, N.C.

SIMMENTAL

Mar. 2 — Gibbs Farms Inaugural Spring Sale, Ranburne, Ala.

Mar. 9 — March Madness Cattle Sale of the Carolinas, Monroe, N.C.

Mar. 23 — 45th Annual Southwest Virginia Performance Tested Bull Sale, Wytheville, Va.

Mar. 23 — BCIA Influenced Virginia

Premium Assured Plus Bred Heifer Sale, Wytheville, Va.

Apr. 6 — Grassy Valley Angus 31st Annual Production Sale, Greeneville, Tenn.

Apr. 6 — Green Hills Gelbvieh & Hope

Cattle Services Spring Turn Out Sale, Oxford, N.C.

Apr. 19 — Virginia Simmental Spring

Sim-Sensation Sale, Harrisonburg, Va.

Sep. 6 — N.C. Simmental Association Field Day, Union Grove, N.C.

Sep. 7 — N.C. Simmental Association

Fall Harvest Sale, Union Grove, N.C.

Oct. 19 — Fred Smith Company Ranch Extra Effort Fall Sale, Clayton, N.C.

Oct. 25 — Yon Family Farms Maternal

Roots Fall Female Sale, Saluda, S.C.

Oct. 26 — Yon Family Farms Maternal

Roots Fall Bull Sale, Saluda, S.C.

Dec. 7 — 49th Annual Union County Performance Tested Bull Sale, Monroe, N.C.

WAGYU

Mar. 2 — A5 Wagyu Production Sale, Purcellville, Va.

Commercial cattle

Mar. 9 — March Madness Cattle Sale of the Carolinas, Monroe, N.C.

Mar. 23 — 45th Annual Southwest Virginia Performance Tested Bull Sale, Wytheville, Va.

Mar. 23 — BCIA Influenced Virginia Premium Assured Plus Bred Heifer Sale, Wytheville, Va.

Mar. 30 — G&E Virginia Premium Assured Heifer Sale, Gretna, Va.

Apr. 6 — Green Hills Gelbvieh & Hope Cattle Services Spring Turn Out Sale, Oxford, N.C.

Apr. 13 — Knoll Crest Farm Spring Bull & Female Sale, Red House, Va.

May 11 — Santa Gertrudis Breeders of the Carolinas 51st Annual Sale, Monroe, N.C.

OTHER EVENTS

Mar. 12 — Piedmont Emergency Animal Response Team Training Course, Kernersville, N.C.

Mar. 13 — Piedmont Emergency Animal Response Team Training Course, Kernersville, N.C.

May 9 — Piedmont Emergency Animal Response Team Training Course, Winston-Salem, N.C.

Apr. 18-21 — Virginia Beef Expo, Harrisonburg, Va.

Aug. 15 — Piedmont Emergency Animal Response Team Training Course, Winston-Salem, N.C.

Sep. 17 — Piedmont Emergency Animal Response Team Training Course, Winston-Salem, N.C.

Livestock market sales

Mar. 4 — Harward Brothers Livestock Market Weekly Sale, Statesville, N.C.

Mar. 5 — Mid-Atlantic Cattle Sales Video Auction, via macsvideo.com

Mar. 6 — Stanly County Livestock Market Weekly Sale, Norwood, N.C.

Mar. 11 — Harward Brothers Livestock Market Weekly Sale, Statesville, N.C.

Mar. 13 — Stanly County Livestock Market Weekly Sale, Norwood, N.C.

Mar. 18 — Harward Brothers Livestock

Market Weekly Sale, Statesville, N.C.

Mar. 19 — Mid-Atlantic Cattle Sales

Video Auction, via macsvideo.com

Mar. 20 — Stanly County Livestock

Market Weekly Sale, Norwood, N.C.

Mar. 25 — Harward Brothers Livestock

Market Weekly Sale, Statesville, N.C.

Mar. 27 — Stanly County Livestock

Market Weekly Sale, Norwood, N.C.

Apr. 1 — Harward Brothers Livestock

Market Weekly Sale, Statesville, N.C.

Apr. 2 — Mid-Atlantic Cattle Sales

Video Auction, via macsvideo.com

Apr. 3 — Stanly County Livestock

Market Weekly Sale, Norwood, N.C.

Apr. 8 — Harward Brothers Livestock

Market Weekly Sale, Statesville, N.C.

Apr. 10 — Stanly County Livestock

Market Weekly Sale, Norwood, N.C.

Apr. 15 — Harward Brothers Livestock

Market Weekly Sale, Statesville, N.C.

Apr. 16 — Mid-Atlantic Cattle Sales

Video Auction, via macsvideo.com

Apr. 17 — Stanly County Livestock

Market Weekly Sale, Norwood, N.C.

Apr. 22 — Harward Brothers Livestock

Market Weekly Sale, Statesville, N.C.

Apr. 24 — Stanly County Livestock

Market Weekly Sale, Norwood, N.C.

Apr. 29 — Harward Brothers Livestock

Market Weekly Sale, Statesville, N.C.