WLJ - Vol. 90 No. 43 by Kaci Foultner

“The Industry’s Largest Weekly Circulation”

The National Livestock Weekly web site: www.wlj.net • e-mail: editorial@wlj.net • advertising@wlj.net • circulation@wlj.net

INSIDE WLJ SHORTAGE SHORTAGE—The quantity of beef available to consumers in the U.S. has declined a startling amount in recent years, and that trend is going to continue. Unfortunately, even higher retail beef prices can be expected for consumers, said Chris Hurt, a Purdue University Extension economist. Page 4 WILLIAMSON ACT ACT—After months of uncertainty, a bill signed by Gov. Brown last week reinstates a revised Williamson Act program intended to preserve the state’s landmark farmland-conservation law. Brown signed Assembly Bill 1265 by Assemblyman Jim Nielsen, R-Gerber, which establishes the revised form of the Williamson Act through 2016. Page 7

August 1, 2011 • Vol. 90, No. 43

A Crow Publication

U.S. cattle herd declines further to 100 million head The U.S. semi-annual cattle inventory report released July 22 by USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) confirmed what many industry analysts had been predicting for months; the U.S. cowherd continues to shrink and there is little likelihood the trend will reverse this year. The ongoing drought in the southern half of the U.S. has sent many cows to packing plants during the first half of the year and, in many cases, calves have also been sold earlier than normal as cattlemen cope with the dry

conditions. According to the NASS report, the U.S. cattle inventory fell 1 percent from July 1, 2010, falling to 100 million head. Beef cow numbers were down 1 percent from last July, reaching 31.4 million head. Dairy cows also declined 1 percent to 9.2 million head during the period. Although there are plenty of signs pointing toward the need for herd expansion in the beef industry, there are also several factors holding back growth. Along with the rising cost of inputs, regula-

tory concerns are adding to the problems created by drought and cattle producers are showing little willingness to add to their herds. The high prices being offered for feeder cattle is also a likely factor in the lack of herd growth as heifers are sold to capture the value rather than being retained in herds. Replacement heifer numbers dropped to 4.2 million head, down 5 percent from the prior July 1 report. It seems likely that further liquidation may continue for much of the year, particularly now that

many crops in the southern Plains have failed and hay prices are moving higher across the country. Oklahoma State University Extension Livestock Marketing Specialist Derrell Peel said last week that Oklahoma combined totals for federally reported auctions over the prior two weeks have shown a 56 percent increase in feeder cattle sales and a 205 percent increase in cow and bull sales compared to the same period one year ago. “The auction totals include significant numbers of double-stocked See Inventory on page 15

CORN STOCKS—The STOCKS July USDA Crop Production and World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates reports put corn ending stocks below trade expectations, allowing the corn market to recover from overnight losses and post solid gains last Tuesday morning. Page 11 COMMODITY PRICES PRICES—While the American consumers have been the primary force in the markets in the past, they are now being supplanted by Chinese consumers. And, while American farmers have worked long hours to build markets for their products, the ethanol success story has also become a driving force beyond consumers and livestock. Page 14 INDEX Beef Bits ............................... P - 3 Markets ............................... P - 10 Classifieds .......................... P - 12 Sale Calendar ..................... P - 15 Weekly Forward Contract Slaughter Volume

LIVE STEERS DRESSED STEERS CME FEEDER $107.00 $171.00 $134.36 WEEK ENDING: 7-28-11

Photo courtesy of Texas AgriLife Extension Agency.

Water can be too Fed cattle trade steady despite much of a good thing lackluster domestic demand

As Texas experiences one if its worst droughts on record, the Texas Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Lab (TVMDL) in Amarillo, TX, is reporting increased numbers of cattle dying from water intoxication. Although rare, water intoxication occurs when cattle over-drink, usually following a period of water deprivation. It can produce acute death in a majority of cases. “This year we are getting feedback from the field of an increase in the number of water intoxication deaths in cattle versus the one or two cases that normally occur per year,” said Dr. Robert Sprowls, veterinarian at TVMDL. “Climatic conditions in 2011 with intense

heat, low humidity and minimal moisture content in forage have contributed to this situation.” Natural sources of water are diminishing across the state, forcing producers to haul water or move their livestock this summer. In addition to extreme drought conditions, Texas has been dealing with steady high heat. These two factors combine causing decreased moisture content in plants. “Cattle normally receive a portion of their daily water requirements from grazed forage which rehydrates them while grazing pastures or range. An average cow grazing green forage consumes about 3.5-8.4 gallons of water See Water on page 9

NEWS:

Time Sensitive Priority Handling

Placements exceed expectations The drought is forcing cow liquidation in the southern Plains, and it’s also pushing calves and lightweight feeder cattle into feedlots, according to USDA’s July cattle on feed report. The National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) reported that the number of cattle on feed in feedlots of 1,000 head or more in the U.S. rose 4 percent to 10.5 million head. The report had a mildly bearish impact on the market last week as the number of cattle on feed and the number of cattle placed into feedlots during June came in larger than pre-report estimates. Placements of cattle reached 1.7 million head, up 4 percent from June 2010. The increase was

largely blamed on the drought in the south which has depleted pastures and other feed resources, forcing heavy culling and herd liquidation across the southern third of the country. Chicago Mercantile Exchange analysts Steve Meyer and Len Steiner noted last week that the placement number exceeded prereport expectations by a wide margin. Analysts had predicted that, on average, placements for the month of June would fall 6.6 percent. “Our contacts indicate that the extra placements are coming from late fall and early spring calves for which there simply is little grass on which to graze from New See Cattle on feed page 8

There was some early light trade last week that appeared to be setting the tone for the fed cattle markets. In Kansas, live cattle were trading in low numbers at $107 live at midday last Thursday. In the Corn Belt, early dressed trade was reported at $170. Although the volume was light, it was expected that most of the week’s trade would fall close to those levels, which were steady with the previous week’s action. Packers were said to be a little light on their inventory of cattle last week and although they have been cutting back on production slightly, there was a need for them to procure some inventory to fill orders placed in early July. Market analyst Troy Vetterkind said last week that he expected at least steady money for the week’s trade as a result. “I imagine that packers will move bids close to steady money with last week to at least get some inventory bought to start next week’s kill,” he noted. However, he also pointed out that packers were likely to remain a little cautious about how high they would bid cattle as a result of the continued slow movement of beef in the domestic retail sector. Despite sluggish movement in the U.S. market, beef prices remain very good and some of that is a result of continued strength in the export channels. Although export sales last week slipped back from the large movement of the previous week, they were still respectable. USDA reported sales last week of 18,100 metric tons, with Mexico emerging as the largest buyer, taking 5,100 metric tons. Canada was a close second with purchases equaling 3,200 metric tons and South Korea and Vietnam made purchases of 2,700 metric tons each. The demand from the export market has helped keep beef cutout prices elevated in recent weeks as the domestic demand tapered off slightly due to hot summer weather in the U.S. At midday last Thursday, Choice boxed beef was down 29 cents at $175.44 while Select was off 20 cents at $170.20 on moderate volume. Vetterkind reported that middle meat markets remain a little soft while the end meats are receiving significant support from the export trade. He also reported last week that the large volume of cows being shipped to slaughter is causing some pressure on cow beef markets. However, he expects that the supply will fall again once this big push of cows to market in the southern Plains is over. At the present time, cows from southern Kansas to Texas and east across the U.S. to the Carolinas are being sold in high numbers to alleviate the pressure of drought which is hammering herds in the region. However, Vetterkind noted last week that some of the volume may be easing slightly and as a result, trucks have become more readily available. Shipping has been a concern among buyers in the See Market on page 11

AUGUST 1, 2011

COMMENTS The heat is on

t has been a mixed bag in the cattle markets this past week. Superior Livestock Auction’s big Video Royale Sale in Winnemucca, NV, produced some excellent prices for all classes of cattle. Five- to CROW six-weight calves for fall delivery were trading well into the $150-plus range and yearlings for immediate delivery remained strong. However, the drought situation in the southern half of the U.S. has been forcing massive liquidation, with early-weaned calves trading well below their northern counterparts. Auction markets in Oklahoma and Texas are running at capacity and have been telling producers not to bring any more cattle to market for a couple weeks. Trucks are backed up and the cattle marketing pipeline is at capacity for now. According to some USDA reports, the volume of feeder cattle going through southern markets is 56 percent higher than a year ago and over 200 percent higher on cow and bull sales, many of which will go directly to slaughter. Feed is in short supply, but stock water is even shorter in the southland. We’ve had some reports of spotty rain in some areas but this drought situation is very serious for southern cattle producers. Ironically, the West and many northern states are in about as good a shape as anyone could ask for. There is lots of water and it’s been cooler than normal. However, the cool weather has slowed hay production in many areas. Hay prices are awful high at this point, trading between $200-300 per ton in some parts of the south. I’m told that there has been a bumper crop of mesquite beans, which cows love, and I suppose some are burning cactus to get something for cattle to eat. Derrell Peel at Oklahoma State University Extension said in his weekly report that prices for slaughter cows, bred cows, and cow/calf pairs have dropped sharply in the past two weeks. This is likely a temporary situation due to the bottlenecks at the markets and shipping such a large volume of livestock. Producers have been forced to sell because they are out of options. However, those with alternatives, who can postpone marketings, may find a better market in the weeks ahead. One thing this business didn’t need was additional cow liquidation. Many of these cows are going to slaughter and cow slaughter in the drought areas is 16 percent higher than a year ago. The most recent two weeks of data shows cow slaughter in the drought region is up 35 percent for the period. Beef cow slaughter year-to-date was down 2.7 percent but Peel suggests that gap will be closing quickly. This situation has forced some yearling cattle into feedlots earlier than normal, so it will distort typical feedlot placement patterns. The last cattle on feed report showed June placements 4 percent higher than a year ago and I would expect July placements to be a big number, too. There has been a lot of unexpected cow slaughter this summer and according to USDA’s midyear cattle inventory report, we’ll certainly have the smallest producing cow herd ever. The report showed that beef cows were down 1 percent to 31.4 million head, nationwide, and replacement heifers were down 5 percent, according to the report. Beef production should be fairly strong this fall but market analysts are expecting beef production to be down 3-4 percent in 2012, which will help to maintain this high market. We’re starting to hear reports that this recent heat wave is also affecting the corn crop and analysts tell us they have lowered their yield expectations. We should have a good corn crop compared to past year’s, but we may not have a big enough crop for current demand. We’re told there are only three weeks worth of old crop corn left. We have also learned that Brazil is importing a large portion of U.S. ethanol production, which is perplexing since Brazil is the world’s largest ethanol producer. Sugar prices are much higher and it appears that the cane is going to produce sugar, not ethanol. It appears to me that the government’s ethanol program and their plan for using it to achieve energy independence has flown out the window. — PETE CROW

WESTERN LIVESTOCK JOURNAL

KAY’S korner

Exports are becoming the lifeblood of the U.S. beef i n d u s t r y. Although we export only 12-14 percent of our production, strong global demand has raised beef prices and has partially offset spluttering demand at home. Exports have significantly raised cattle values. The export boom is adding more than $200 per head to the value of fed cattle. That’s nearly $50 per head more than the record annual average set in 2010. Exports so far this year are up sharply in volume and up even more in value. A primary reason is the weak U.S. dollar relative to other currencies. This makes U.S. exports increasingly competitive in many markets, notably in Canada and Asia. A fascinating development is the emergence of the Middle East as a rapidly growing market for primal cuts. This is partly the result of work by the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF), which has focused on introducing several beef cuts not traditionally used in the region. Meanwhile, exports to South Korea continue to see remarkable growth. But Mexico and Canada remain the U.S.’ top two exports markets in terms of volume and value. Beef and beef variety meat exports year-to-date through May totaled 509,489 metric

Beef's Beef's export export boom boom

tons (mt) valued at $2.09 billion, says USMEF. This surpasses last year’s pace by 28 percent in volume and 44 percent in value. Exports to South Korea to the end of May more than doubled the 2010 pace in terms of both volume (76,209 mt) and value ($330.6M). In terms of value, Japan at $327.5M pulled nearly even with Korea for the No. 3 position behind Mexico and Canada. Export value to Japan is running 69 percent ahead of last year’s pace while export volume at 59,672 mt is 63 percent higher. Significantly, the U.S. has increased its market share in Japan this year at the expense of Australia. Exports to the Middle East region so far this year have increased 44 percent in volume (64,712 mt) and 60 percent in value ($125.8M). Strong growth in Egypt has fueled the increases—it is the number one market for U.S. livers. But the region has seen diversification into primal cuts, says Dan Halstrom, USMEF’s senior vice president of global marketing. High-end restaurants in the region are booming and they are using more U.S. cuts such as chucks and top sirloins. More than 90 percent of U.S. exports are going to the foodservice sector. The retail sector is virtually untapped, so the potential for growth is enormous, he says. It would be nice to say that U.S. ethanol policy has helped the beef industry but the op-

posite is true. USDA forecasts that for the first time, more of the U.S. corn crop will go to ethanol production than to livestock feed. A startling 40 percent of this year’s crop will go to ethanol, compared to just 6 percent 11 years ago. Even more incredulous is the way in which the ethanol industry has grown. Over the years, the industry has received more than $30 billion in federal aid. Still in existence but possibly soon to disappear are a 45-cent-pergallon blenders’ subsidy and a 54-cent-per-gallon tax on imports. As indefensible as this support is, that’s been nothing compared to the two energy bills passed under the Bush administration that mandated that at least 10 percent of all gasoline include biofuels. As ethanol is the only commercially-produced such fuel, this gave ethanol a guaranteed market, as well as getting $6 billion annually of free federal handouts. Ethanol used only 20 percent of the corn crop until the federal mandates took effect. Ethanol’s corn use has more than trebled the price of corn in the past six years. Cash corn prices last week were more than double what they were a year ago. Futures prices are close to $7 per bushel and there’s little likelihood they will decline. Ethanol supporters until this year did a brilliant job in convincing politicians that their industry needed to keep

being supported and that ethanol’s corn use had little to do with rising food prices. Washington has finally wised up to the first claim and bipartisan legislation looks like eliminating the blenders’ credit (possibly on July 31). People are still questioning the corn use-food price connection. But the debate misses the fact that higher corn prices are one of the main reasons why U.S. livestock producers have not expanded their herds the past two years. Other factors have caused cattle producers to keep reducing their herds, notably severe to extreme drought this year from Texas to Florida. But high corn prices are creating considerable uncertainty about future profits. They’re certainly impacting cattle feeders’ ability to make money, as feeder cattle prices have remained high because of declining cattle numbers. The shrinking U.S. cattle herd, static hog numbers, and more meat exports all mean less beef and pork on the domestic market on a per capita basis. Retail meat and poultry prices are currently up 8.5 percent on this time last year and ethanol policies have been at least partly responsible. — Steve Kay (Steve Kay is Editor/Publisher of Cattle Buyers Weekly, an industry newsletter published at P.O. Box 2533, Petaluma, CA, 94953; 707/7651725. Kay’s Korner appears exclusively in WLJ.)

Caught in the line of fire

Bull Tales Dear WLJ Editor: I apologize for missing the deadline on my monthly Bull Tales column. I was preoccupied at the time. You see, I was headed into my office when I spotted a plume of smoke a couple miles southeast of my place. So I hollered to my wife and told her what I’d seen. Then, whistling up my dog, we hopped on my ATV and took a quick ride to the top of the butte for a better view. Shortly after I returned, a phone call came in and explained one of our neighbors had been baling hay. About halfway through the field, he glanced into his rearview mirror and saw the field was on fire and spreading uphill into his rangeland. Our tiny ranching community has no fire protection. There isn’t enough public land for federal agencies to be interested. If they have a brush rig available, they’ll send it over to assist, mainly with the idea of keeping it from spreading onto their ground. But that’s okay. My neigh-

bors have been fighting their own fires for generations. They know the turf and what works. Plus, they’re maximally motivated. The younger and stronger guys were roaring off on bulldozers and ATVs to stop the front line. Several people rolled unburned bales away from the creeping fire and a few of us worked our way around the hay field moving handline irrigation pipe out of the smoldering path. Shortly, I heard a heavy truck engine working its way across the field toward me. This is one of our community spray rigs—a two-and-ahalf-ton truck from the WWII era. It was operated by the brother of the man whose baler had started the fire. “Hop in back,” he said, “I need a hose operator.” Yours truly climbed up the side of the truck. Now, Mr. Editor, I don’t know if you or anyone on your staff has ridden a deuce and a half through rough country on a cab-high flat metal water tank operated by an excited driver. But, it’s a lot like mounting

a dining room table on the back of a bucking bull and handing the rider a live python-like hose instead of a grab rope. The ride is breathtaking. I didn’t get any points for style or skill, but managed a small score for surviving the incident. At one point, as I was skidding across the deck leaving black boot-heel marks, I recall bumping into something. The next time I slid across the tank in the opposite direction, I noticed the CB antenna had been ripped loose. I think I got more water on the fire than the driver’s rear view mirror—but I’m not sure. By the end of the day, the fire was burning in on itself. Most of us went home to get some sleep. It’s not easy, however, to get much rest with the smell of cold smoke wafting in the open window. My imagination is too vivid. The following morning, way too early, we got a phone call saying the fire was headed in our direction. Coming out of a sound sleep, there are few things that clarify a man’s mind as quickly as hearing those words. A good cup of coffee doesn’t get close.

I spent the rest of the day on an ATV—avoiding the deuce and a half this time— with a bladder bag following bulldozers through the canyons and putting out spot fires which threatened to cross the fireline. When everyone went home that night, the fire was, once again, burning in on itself. The next day dawned with no wind and 15 degrees cooler. Mop up began. In the end, our little fire didn’t even make the news. It burned almost 2,000 acres of range. There were no bodies, we lost no barns, equipment or livestock. All agreed the grass next spring would be gorgeous. Outside of lost time, the only complaint was that more junipers—waterhogs of the desert—hadn’t burned. I must admit, Mr. Editor, that I didn’t hop off the fire line and send my column off to you. I flopped in the sack and did little more than wiggle for a couple of days. I promise I’ll do better next month. — Bing Bingham [Bing Bingham is a writer, rancher and storyteller. As you read this, he’s fixing his neighbor’s CB antenna. If you have a fire story to pass along, contact him at bing@ bingbingham.com.]

The National Livestock Weekly • Since 1922 • A Crow Publication • 7355 E. Orchard Rd., #300, Greenwood Village, CO 80111 • www.wlj.net • 303/722-7600 • FAX 303/722-0155

NELSON CROW Founder FORREST BASSFORD Publisher Emeritus DICK CROW Publisher Emeritus PETE CROW Publisher pete@wlj.net EDITORIAL@WLJ.NET JOHN ROBINSON, Managing Editor john@wlj.net SHARON ALLEY, Receptionist/Editorial Associate sharonlee@wlj.net

ADVERTISING@WLJ.NET CORINA BROWN Advertising Coordinator corina@wlj.net KACI FOULTNER Graphic Designer kaci@wlj.net SHARON MURANO Graphic Designer sharon@wlj.net CLASSIFIED@WLJ.NET PRESTON CORMAN Classified Advertising Manager preston@wlj.net

PROPERTIES MAGAZINE DICK KONOPKA, Sales Manager richard@wlj.net CIRCULATION@WLJ.NET MICHELE McRAE, Circulation michele@wlj.net ACCOUNTING@WLJ.NET SCHATZIE DICKEY, Bookkeeper schatzie@wlj.net

FIELD REPRESENTATIVES JIM GIES, 19381 WCR 74, Eaton, CO 80615, 970/454-3836, e-mail: jgies@msn.com JERRY GLIKO, 433 Belt Creek Road, Belt, MT 59412, 406/277-3001 (h), 406/860-3181 (c), e-mail: jlgliko@3rivers.net JERRY YORK, 72 N. Pit Lane, Nampa, ID 83687, 208/863-1172 (c), 208/442-7471 (f), e-mail: jerryyorkwlj@gmail.com

NATIONAL ADVERTISING PETE CROW, 7355 E. Orchard Rd., #300, SUBSCRIPTION CHANGE OF ADDRESS: 800/850-2769 Greenwood Village, CO 80111 - 303/722-7600.

WESTERN LIVESTOCK JOURNAL (ISSN 0094-6710) is published weekly (52 issues annually, plus special features) by Crow Publications, Inc., 7355 E. Orchard Rd., #300, Greenwood Village, CO 80111. Web address: http://www.wlj.net or E-mail: editorial@wlj.net or advertising@wlj.net. Subscription rate (U.S. subscriptions): $45.00 per year, 2 years $65.00, 3 years $87.00, single copy price $1.00. Periodicals postage paid at Englewood, CO, and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Western Livestock Journal, c/o Crow Publications, Inc., P.O. Box 370930, Denver, CO 80237-0930.

WESTERN LIVESTOCK JOURNAL

BEEF bits

Lummis introduces marketing legislation

Rep. Cynthia Lummis has introduced a bill that would target meat packer practices that she says are unfair to independent ranchers and farmers. The bill by the Wyoming Republican is modeled after one proposed in the Senate by Wyoming Republican Sen. Mike Enzi. Both are labeled the Livestock Marketing Fairness Act. Lummis says a lack of transparency in the marketplace can lead to price manipulation and abuse by some packers. The proposed bill seeks to guarantee that local contract prices are not subject to manipulation by packer-owned herds and encourage openness in public markets where buyers and sellers can witness bids and make their own offers.

South Dakota names Beef Ambassadors Courtney Nolz and Chelsey Cahoon have been selected South Dakota Beef Ambassadors for 2011 and 2012 respectively. The two young women were chosen during the statewide competition in Huron July 22. Nolz, a sophomore at South Dakota State University and the daughter of David and Peggy Nolz of Mitchell, will represent the state at the National Beef Ambassador Contest in Wooster, OH, Sept. 30-Oct. 2, 2011. As South Dakota Beef Ambassadors, both women will be promoting beef across the state during their terms.

CAB posts June sales record Although beef prices have been relatively high this spring and summer, many consumers and chefs are continuing to look for high-quality cuts. The Certified Angus Beef brand sold 70 million pounds in June, the highest volume month in the company’s 33-year history, 4.3 percent above the previous June and some 10 million pounds better than June 2009. This milestone, with three months to go, moves the company one step closer to a sixth consecutive fiscal year of sales gains. The share of Angus-influenced cattle qualifying for the brand in June was 24.8 percent, nearly 4 percentage points higher than summer 2009. Sales gains came from foodservice, which has experienced significant recovery the past 12 to 18 months despite higher cattle and beef prices. Retail continues to carry the bulk of brand sales, with seasonally strong summer demand in full swing. The international division is setting a hot pace in rate of growth with a 17 percent increase over 2010 for the fiscal year to date.

Beef featured during Montana event Weebee’s, Gallatin Gateway Inn, and the Mint Bar and Café will dish up their own unique takes on beef during the 5th Annual Montana Cattle Crawl slated for Sunday, Aug. 21, 2011, in Bozeman, MT. The Cattle Crawl, held prior years in Billings, is a project of the Young Stockgrowers committee of the Montana Stockgrowers Association (MSGA) to acquaint urban beef consumers with local ranchers and to encourage foodservice establishments to feature beef in a creative way. It is funded by Montana beef producers and checkoff dollars. Tickets are $75 per person or $140 per couple. Price includes food, wine, commemorative wine glass, and travel. For more information or to sign up, please contact Rose Malisani at MSGA at 406/442-3420 by Aug. 15, 2011.

Packing plant workers file suit Employees at a Kansas beef plant who sued the company in a class-action lawsuit seeking unpaid wages and overtime are asking a federal judge to block company access to records which would show the immigration status of claimants. The company, Creekstone Farms Premium Beef, has said it is simply requesting routine records, however, employees participating in the lawsuit told U.S. District Judge Eric Melgren that they fear the company will use those records to pressure workers named in the case. Among the records they are asking the judge to block are disclosure of place of birth, identification documents, social security numbers, any prior or present addresses, and any tax information. The employees, an estimated 700 who have signed on to the lawsuit, claim that the company has not been paying for all hours worked.

Food price inflation set to increase USDA said last week that it continues to project food price inflation to rise 3-4 percent in 2011 as a result of strong demand for commodities, which is driving prices higher. Meat prices are among the fastest rising, projected to grow at 7-8 percent for beef, while pork prices are expected to rise 6.5-7.5 percent. The increases are well above the levels seen in 2010, which saw prices climb just 0.8 percent during the year. Despite the sharp increase over last year, USDA said prices may continue to rise as costs have not been fully passed along to consumers. “Price levels in 2012 will hinge significantly on weather conditions in the American Midwest during the remainder of July and into August and September 2011,” USDA predicted.

AUGUST 1, 2011

Controlling genetics is the key to market premiums Genetics make a difference in a beef herd. And stacked genetics make an even bigger difference, says Mike Kasten, owner of 4M Ranch, Millersville, MO. “The only aspect of a cattle operation that we as producers have total control over is genetics,” Kasten says in notes he will share with beef producers at a national conference in Joplin, MO. “You can’t control the weather, prices or politics. But you can control the genetic makeup of your herd.” Kasten has used artificial insemination (AI) in his Bollinger County cow herd for 37 years. That has given him generations of cows with improved genetics. He will speak at the Applied Reproductive Strategies in Beef Cattle (ARSBC) conference Aug. 31-Sept. 1. A large attendance of producers is expected from Missouri, Arkansas, Oklahoma and Kansas, says David Patterson, University of Missouri (MU) Extension beef reproduction specialist, Columbia. The program attracts a national audience. “Just as important as using AI, Kasten keeps computerized herd records,” Pat-

terson says. “That gives him control of management.” From his computer, Kasten prints out the value of genetic improvement. Calves from two or more generations of superior genetics are worth an extra $177.48 per calf. That’s above using a proven sire on the first-generation cows. Kasten sells Show-MeSelect Replacement Heifers. Also, he retains and feeds out steers, half-sibs of the genetically superior heifers. His records show a steady increase in USDA Primegrade cattle going to market from a Kansas feed yard. The Prime and Choice grades draw price premiums from packer grids when he sells cattle. Kasten’s records aren’t sophisticated. “A person could pick apart these data,” Kasten says. “But the proven genetics has brought back more money. Adjustments in numbers won’t change that fact.” At the Joplin conference, Kasten will go into detail on his proven management plans. He also provides beef herd management and AI breeding for neighboring herds.

Kasten provided the herd for the first field demonstration for Fixed Timed Artificial Insemination (FTAI) developed by Patterson when he came to MU from Kentucky 15 years ago. Kasten says he had tried everything to improve his calf crop. “I used pregnant mare serum. I tried removing calves at breeding time. Nothing worked remotely as well as the fixed-time AI protocols we use today. “We no longer observe heat at all,” Kasten says. “We just breed when the calendar and clock say that it’s time.” The result is a 60-70 percent fixed-time-AI pregnancy rate on the first day of breeding season. Timed AI shortens the calving season, producing a more uniform calf crop. “The time and labor savings, coupled with better results, make the fixed-time breeding system very appealing,” Kasten says. Patterson adds, “It’s often possible to get better results with timed AI than with bulls.” Kasten likes the convenience of FTAI. But the greater value comes from

superior proven sires. That boosts the value of the calves—and the cows retained in the herd. The ARSBC conference goes to a different state each year. Originally, the meetings featured beef physiologists from land-grant universities. Now the meetings appeal to a broad audience in the beef industry, from veterinarians to suppliers. This year, increased attention is on a program for herd owners. In addition to talks at the Joplin Expo Center, the group will go to Joplin Regional Stockyards for a grilled steak dinner and working demonstrations. Attendees will receive printed proceedings with speakers’ talks. “This will become the textbook for beef reproduction,” Patterson predicts. Advance registration is required through the MU Conference Office. Go to the website at http://muconf. missouri.edu/arsbc/. Registration by Aug. 10 is $175. That includes some meals, a book and bus ride on the field trip. For late registration, add $25. Student rates are $100. — WLJ

AUGUST 1, 2011

WESTERN LIVESTOCK JOURNAL

Beef shortage means hold on to the cows

Scan the QR code with your cell phone, or LIKE US online today! www.facebook.com/WesternLivestockJournal

The quantity of beef available to consumers in the U.S. has declined a startling amount in recent years, and that trend is going to continue. Unfortunately, even higher retail beef prices can be expected for consumers, said Chris Hurt, a Purdue University Extension economist. “The declining supplies are related to continuing liquidation of the cow herd in the past few years due to high feed prices, a weak U.S. dollar that is spurring beef exports, and, of course, drought in the Southwest and Southeast. Declining supplies will support prices across the cattle complex at new record highs in 2011 and again in 2012,” he said.

The USDA estimate of the inventory of beef cows on July 1 showed a further decline of 1 percent in the past year. Since 2007, when feed prices were still moderate, beef cow numbers have dropped 5 percent. More alarming is the decline in beef available to U.S. consumers as cow numbers were dropping and foreign consumers have been buying much more of the U.S. production, he said. In 2006 and 2007, before feed prices surged, U.S. consumers had more than 65 pounds of beef available per person. This year, USDA analysts expect that to be down to 57.9 pounds and to drop again to only 55.6 pounds per person in 2012,

ROPERTIE P S R A N C H • F A R M w w w.wlj.net

Since 1983, Properties Ranch & Farm magazine has been the leader in farm and ranch marketing. Your investment in Properties Ranch & Farm magazine will reach over 26,000 potential buyers and sellers of farm and ranch properties. Whether buying, selling or trading, Properties Ranch & Farm magazine is your one-stop shopping place. Also, private-party sellers are welcome.

he said. “This represents a 15 percent reduction in available supplies during the highfeed price era. The drought in the southern Plains and Southeast this year is continuing the herd reduction due to extreme shortages and high prices of forages. In addition, recent heat stress is thought to be causing higher death losses that will also contribute to smaller supplies,” he said. Beef trade is back as a contributor to beef prices as well. In 2003, beef exports reached a record, representing 9.6 percent of domestic production. The discovery of a BSE cow late that year caused most buyers to shun U.S. beef, with exports dropping to just 2.3 percent of production in 2004, Hurt said. “It has taken a long time, but 2011 is expected to see a record 10 percent of U.S. production heading to foreign consumers,” he said. There have been several drivers of higher exports. One was the reopening of the South Korean market in July 2008 after they banned U.S. beef in late 2003. Although South Korea was our fourth-largest buyer in 2010, they have jumped to the second-largest buyer in 2011 with purchases so far this year more than double the same period in 2010, he said. “Japanese purchases are up over 50 percent, which is probably also related to the p earthquake/tsunami disase ter t there,” Hurt said. There is a more fundamental driver of favorable m beef b trade patterns for U.S. producers, however, and p that is the weakness of the t U.S. U dollar. A weak U.S. dollar l implies that some foreign currencies are strengthenc ing i and providing incentives for f both more beef exports and less beef imports, he a noted. n “U.S. beef imports from New N Zealand, Australia and Canada are down 6 percent, C 25 2 percent and 26 percent this year, whereas imports t from Australia are off 89 f percent. These are the four largest sources of U.S. beef imports,” he said.

Beef exports so far this year are up 27 percent, with large increases to three of our four largest customers: Canada, Japan and South Korea, he said. “In fact, the U.S. became a net exporter of beef beginning in September 2010. This is the first time in modern history that the beef industry has exported more beef than they imported. So far this year, the United States has a net trade surplus of over 2 percent of production. This compares with a nearly 2 percent trade deficit in the same period last year, meaning about 4 percent less supplies available to American consumers due to changes in trade,” Hurt said. Placements into feedlots in June were surprisingly high, at 4 percent higher than placements a year earlier. The larger placements were due to a rapid movement of calves weighing less than 700 pounds into feedlots. This was probably related to some backgrounders running out of feed and to lower feed prices in June that gave feedlot managers more confidence in potential positive margins, Hurt said. “Finished cattle prices are expected to reach summer lows in late August in the $106 to $110 range, similar to current prices. As the weather cools into September, prices are expected to rise seasonally and to average $112 to $116 in the final quarter. For the entire year, this will mean averages of $109 to $112,” he said. First and second quarter prices in 2012 are expected to set records once again with quarterly averages climbing to $115 to $120. Peak seasonal prices in the early spring of 2012 could reach $125, he added. “Calf prices this fall will be further strengthened if corn and soybean yields can approach normal levels and corn prices drop 70 to 90 cents per bushel from summer levels. The clear message for beef producers is to hold on to cows as the beef industry has a positive outlook for a number of years to come,” he said. — WLJ

Some pockets of dryland crops remain in Texas

The next quarterly issue of Western Livestock Journal’s Properties Ranch & Farm magazine will be published September 12, 2011.

The advertising deadline is August 12, 2011.

Call today and reserve your advertising space now!

303-722-7600 or 800-850-2769 Contact us today for more information: Dick Konopka, Konopka, richard@wlj.net • Preston Corman Corman,, preston@wlj.net advertising@wlj.net

Though most dryland crops have failed due to the drought, there were scattered pockets of production, according to a Texas AgriLife Extension Service expert. “There will be some dryland crops harvested in Texas,” said Dr. Travis Miller, AgriLife Extension program leader and associate department head of the Texas A&M University soil and crop sciences department, College Station. “The best areas are going to be from Corpus (Christi), TX, north to Victoria, TX, and along the coast a little ways, and then from Hill County north and east.” Miller predicted cotton yields in the area from Corpus Christi to Victoria will be in the 350- to 400-poundper-acre range. Sorghum yields were reported as being in the 3,000- to 3,700-pound range while corn yields were about 35 to 40 bushels per acre. But the situation varied widely not just from one region to another, but coun-

ty to county, he said. “If you get a little farther north, say to Matagorda County, they just missed those rains, and there’s some 25- to 30-bushel corn,” Miller said. “Then Hill County and to the north had some pretty good rains. I think there was some 75-bushel corn, and I believe there will be 3,800- to 4,000-pound sorghum. With the current price scenario, they can probably do a little better than break even on that.” But for most of the state, the dryland situation was just plain dismal. From Uvalde (south-central Texas) north to Spearman (the upper Panhandle), nearly all dryland crops have failed, he said. There is not going to be much of anything harvested on dryland fields in the southwest Texas area, the Edwards Plateau, the Rolling Plains and the High Plains. It almost looks desertlike, he said. “You can’t even tell they planted anything,” Miller said. — WLJ

WESTERN LIVESTOCK JOURNAL

Groups see common ground in feed, fuel debate

Flaws found in government study An updated report on the science surrounding Chesapeake Bay water quality confirms that serious and significant differences exist between the Environmental Protection Agencyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s (EPA) â&#x20AC;&#x153;Bay Modelâ&#x20AC;? and the model authored by the Agriculture Department. Left unchanged, these differences could lead to farmers in the watershed paying a steep price for nutrients and sediments that have been mistakenly attributed to them, according to the American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF). The analysis, conducted by LimnoTech and commissioned by the Agricultural Nutrient Policy Council, shows there are vast differences between the EPA and USDA Chesapeake Bay models in the areas of land use, total acreage of the bay watershed, and data and assumptions about farmer adoption of conservation and farming practices. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It is clear to us that the EPAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s TMDL water regulations are based on flawed information,â&#x20AC;? said AFBF President Bob Stallman. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Due to the fact that farmers and others in the Chesapeake Bay Watershed are being directed to incur extreme costs and even take land out of production to comply with EPAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

harsh new regulations, those regulations must be based on reliable information. Currently, that is not the case.â&#x20AC;? As a result of the federal agenciesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; disagreement in key areas such as conservation and farming practices used by farmers in the watershed, and the number of acres that fall within watershed borders, there is a wide discrepancy in the nutrients and sediments being attributed to agriculture. Given USDAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s superior knowledge of agriculture and farming practices, Stallman said EPAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s disregard for USDA information is not acceptable. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We all want a clean Chesapeake Bay,â&#x20AC;? Stallman said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Farmers in the watershed have made tremendous investment to put conservation practices in place to protect the bay, and they are doing more every day. â&#x20AC;&#x153;While we need EPA and USDA to work together to resolve these key differences, ultimately, we believe that the types of regulations put in place for the bay by EPA are unlawful. This is a job for our state governments, not the federal government. But, since federal regulators are pursuing restrictive regulations on our farms, they should at least base their actions on credible facts.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x201D; WLJ

,ARKSPUR #OLORADO

Congress is gridlocked on the budget deficit and debt ceiling. The agricultural groups support restructuring the tax credits to invest in ethanol infrastructure. Along with that, the groups propose a â&#x20AC;&#x153;counter-cyclicalâ&#x20AC;? tax credit that would kick in based on oil falling below certain levels. While proposing to overhaul the blendersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; credit, the groups stated that the Renewable Fuels Standard should be maintained. That recommendation, however, was a sticking point that caused at least two livestock and poultry groups to reject signing the document. The groups would also like some restrictions on biomass conversion changed under the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 that banned biomass from some forestry from being factored into the Renewable Energy Standard. Further, production of livestock and renewable energy feedstocks should be allowed on public lands, the proposal stated. Other recommendations by the working group promote more research and technology advances on energy as well as expanding on-farm energy efficiency and conservation programs to help reduce farm operating costs. Such investments could be problematic, especially given that the current energy programs in the farm bill do not have funding authorization after 2012 and would require billions of dollars to maintain in the next farm bill. Moving forward on energy policies, the agricultural groups agreed on some broad guiding principles that energy policies should be transparent, shaped by national security demands, and framed in the context of economic opportunity across the board while increasing renewable energy production. Further, new energy policies should ensure that one sector of agriculture does not benefit at the expense of another sector. Groups that participated in the yearlong dialogue and signed on to the principles and policy plank include: American Farm Bureau Federation, American Farmland Trust, American Soybean Association, National Association of Conservation Districts, National Cattlemenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Beef Association, National Corn Growers Association, National Farmers Union, National Institute for Animal Agriculture, and the National Milk Producers Federation. â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Chris Clayton, DTN

AUGUST 13, 2011

Several major farm, commodity and livestock groups see some common ground in a list of principles and policy planks to ensure the biofuels industry grows while enhancing needed feed for livestock. The white paper lays out different policy options, and yet reflects continuing tension given that a couple of key livestock and poultry groups that worked on the proposal in the end opted not to sign on. DTN received a copy of the twopage principles and policy paper from members 25xâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;25 coalition attending the Ag Media Summit in New Orleans, LA. Groups have been meeting over the past year to talk about issues in feed, food and fuel and looking for policy solutions that could be sustainable for both grain and livestock producers, according to members of the 25xâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;25 working group that helped facilitate the talks. Members were presented with some specific recommendations at a meeting last month in Maryland, said National Farmers Union President Roger Johnson in a phone interview last Tuesday. â&#x20AC;&#x153;A lot of what was agreed to are items various groups have been raising for awhile,â&#x20AC;? Johnson said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll take this language and compare it to our policy book. Pretty much whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s in there, our policy speaks to.â&#x20AC;? In laying out some policy recommendations, the groups stated several proposals that â&#x20AC;&#x153;represent the majority thinkingâ&#x20AC;? of the group. High on that list are proposals to open more land to production, including changes to the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP). Enrollment criteria in CRP should be tightened, â&#x20AC;&#x153;allowing early outs for land that can be returned to production in an environmentally sound manner,â&#x20AC;? and targeting the programs to environmentally sensitive lands. For land coming out of the program, the group stated policies should ensure â&#x20AC;&#x153;any environmentally sensitive land that comes out of CRP is farmed under best management practices that control erosion, protect water quality and wildlife habitat.â&#x20AC;? Currently, the 45-cent Volumetric Ethanol Excise Tax Credit, commonly known as the blendersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; credit, is set to expire at the end of the year, along with the 54-cent ethanol import tariff. Senators have proposed a plan to reduce and overhaul ethanol subsidies, but legislation has not been able to move while

AUGUST 1, 2011

Calf preconditioning: The best for both worlds

Nearly all cow/calf producers will say their goal is to sell calves for a premium on sale day. However, most buyers will say their objective is to buy healthy calves as economically as possible. While these may seem like competing interests, both buyers and sellers can get what they want with calf preconditioning programs. Studies have shown that preconditioning programs can help cow/calf producers sell their calves for a premium on sale dayâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;at times adding an extra $6.38 per cwt. And buyers can reap the rewards of preconditioned calves, too. Preconditioning programs promote calf growth, enhance immune function and minimize stress during weaning, adding value to calves as they move from the ranch to stocker operations and, finally, the feedlot. While buyers may have to pay a bit more at the time of purchase, they also should see reduced health risk with preconditioned calves, with fewer pulls, lower treatment costs, less labor and higher performance. In fact, benefits to feedlots have been well documented, with research demonstrating that preconditioning programs administered at the ranch of origin meant: â&#x20AC;˘ Decreased morbidity and mortality rates â&#x20AC;˘ Increased net returns in feedlot cattle compared with cattle of unknown vaccination history â&#x20AC;˘ Calves had a 0.29-pound average daily gain advantage when preconditioned for 45 days or longer â&#x20AC;˘ Calves had a 7.2 percent better feed efficiency when preconditioned for 45 days or longer â&#x20AC;˘ Calves had a $29.47 per head lower medicine cost when preconditioned for 45 days or longer â&#x20AC;˘ Calves had a 3.1 percent lower death loss when preconditioned for 45 days or longer

Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s more, preconditioning programs are easy for cow/calf producers to implement because many are already doing most of what is required, including vaccination, deworming, dehorning, castration, water and feed bunk training, and weaning prior to sale day. To help ensure sale-day premiums for producers and healthy feeder calves for buyers, producers should look for programs that include all of these practices and are third-party verified, demonstrated and backed by a trusted company. Additionally, choosing programs that offer flexibility for calves, stocker cattle and

heifers helps producers tailor the preconditioning program to fit theirâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;and their customersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;â&#x20AC;&#x201D;needs. Preconditioning programs do require some additional planning and, in many cases, an analysis of the market in a producerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s area. Despite this, calf preconditioning is a smart choice for the cattle industry as a whole, preparing calves for the challenges they will face once they leave their ranch of origin. Finally, preconditioning can help producers enhance the health of their cattleâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;and their bottom lineâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;and take some of the risk away from buyers. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a win for all. â&#x20AC;&#x201D; WLJ

is seeking qualified

MANAGING EDITOR candidates.

Applicants should be self-starting writers with the ability to work on a deadline with minimal supervision. A strong background in the livestock industry and a passion for the business are required. Must be able to produce high-quality writing in a timely manner. Candidates should have solid writing skills, strong editing skills, and a desire to work as part of a team. The ideal candidate would possess experience in both newspaper and magazine layout, design and other publishing functions.

To be considered for the position, please submit a resume, cover letter and three writing samples to pete@wlj.net.

800-850-2769 â&#x20AC;˘ 303-810-8831

-ATRONS IC T S E J A 3ELLING /VER (EAD

OF THE MOUNTAINS AT SPRUCE MOUNTAIN RANCH SALE STARTS AT 1 P.M.

Y Your T Trusted dS Source for Angus Genetics able to ďŹ t any Purebred or Commercial Program

s 3ELLING 9OUNG Fall Calving Females

! 'REAT 3OURCE TO !DD 3OLID &EMALES TO 9OUR (ERD

s 3ELLING 3PRING #ALVING Heifers and Cows s 3ELLING &OUNDATION $ONORS s 3PRING AND &ALL 3HOW (EIFER AND 2EPLACEMENT 0ROSPECTS

Scan this QR code with your smart phone e and watch sale offering videos SALE MANAGED BY:

131 Robin Ct. Howell, MI 48855 517-546-6374 www.cotton-associates.com

Call to request a sale book 719.484.0800

3PRUCE -OUNTAIN 2OAD s ,ARKSPUR #/ 0(/.%: %-!),: INFO SPRUCEMOUNTAINRANCH COM 7%"3)4% WWW SPRUCEMOUNTAINRANCH COM

AUGUST 1, 2011

WESTERN LIVESTOCK JOURNAL

Drought decision aid for ranchers now available Cut the stress in summer heat The Texas AgriLife Extension Service and Oklahoma State University have developed a decision aid to help cattle producers make culling decisions due to extreme drought. The Cow Bid Price Estimate Calculator, a spreadsheet program, is available at http:// agfacts.tamu.edu/~lfalcone/newweb/ droughtmgmt.htm. “This is the latest in a string of these types of problems due to drought, much like what we saw in the spring and summer of 1996, again in 1998 as well as 2006, 2008 and 2009,” said David Anderson, AgriLife Extension livestock economist. “However, market conditions and expectations of future prices were much different than today.” Anderson said in the spring of 1996, producers were faced with the lowest cattle prices since the mid-1970s, along with grain and forage prices “that were historically very high, and set to move higher.” “Today, cull cow and calf prices are much stronger even though we face higher grain and forage prices,” Anderson said. “What is the same now as in 1996 are the economic and financial analysis tools and how they should be used to make a sound disinvestment or investment decision for breeding cattle.” Larry Falconer, AgriLife Extension econ-

omist in Corpus Christi, said beef cattle producers are facing the following decisions: Keeping or selling a cow; and How much feed one can afford to buy to keep a cow or heifer in the herd. “These decisions hinge on the expected value of each animal in a herd when compared to what the market is offering for that animal,” Falconer said. “These decisions can be analyzed with this tool. Deciding on what a cow is worth in a herd is not always simple when comparing what you have to pay for the same age and quality cow over the scale at your local auction barn.” The decision aid uses data on calf crop percentage, weaning weight, steer, heifer and cull cow price, annual operating costs per cow as well as financing information. By entering this data, a rancher can determine the expected net present value of the cow to use in making a culling decision. “The use of these tools can provide benchmarks to calculate what might be best to do with the hand that you as a cattle producer have been dealt,” Falconer said. “This analysis should be carried out for your particular situation, because the ‘right’ answer depends on the cost structure for your ranch and what you expect future prices to be.” — WLJ

Higher energy prices hitting farmers’ bottom line While farmers are benefitting from positive commodity prices, rising production costs remain a concern, according to economists with the American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF). “These are encouraging times for the U.S. farm economy,” said AFBF Chief Economist Bob Young. “Higher prices for corn, cotton, wheat and soybeans are helping farmers, but higher energy prices are impacting profit margins. It’s important to remember that farming is still a very capital intensive occupation and that high input costs affect the bottom line, even in good times.” AFBF economist Matt Erickson outlined the impact of high energy prices on farmers in a new white paper, “Costof-Production Report: the Rising Costs of Inputs.” High oil

prices will drive up the cost of production of corn, soybeans, wheat, rice and cotton in 2011, according to Erickson. Higher fertilizer prices are also impacting net farm income. “The effects of higher oil prices are reducing profits to the agricultural sector,” Erickson said. “From seed to fertilizer, each commodity is projected to experience higher yearly production costs from 2010 to 2011.” USDA is forecasting 2011 total operating costs to climb 18 percent for corn, 13 percent for soybeans, 18 percent for wheat, 15 percent for rice and 9 percent for cotton, compared to last year. Erickson said a major factor impacting these higher production costs are higher energy prices and higher fertilizer prices. “One reason fertilizer prices have increased is demand

for fertilizer given the current tight supply for grain commodities, primarily corn,” Erickson said. “In the current situation of tight supplies for grain, fertilizer is a necessity as acreage production in the U.S. is at a max. Similarly, high grain prices increase the demand for fertilizer in international markets.” High diesel prices hit farmers hard at planting because farm tractors run on the fuel and it will also impact the bottom line at harvest because combines and cotton pickers also run on diesel, according to Erickson. “With diesel a byproduct of crude oil, farm diesel prices are expected to continue to increase with projections of increased crude oil prices from the Energy Information Administration,” Erickson said. — WLJ

SUBSCRIBE NOW!

Don’t miss your chance to get the best read livestock industry Rates apply to U.S. subscriptions only. publication. ❏ 3 years $87.00 Includes these quality

Best Buy!

magazines: • Bull Buyer’s Guide • Commercial Cattle Issue • Properties Ranch & Farm

❏ 2 years $65.00 ❏ 1 year $45.00

Name _____________________________________________ Company __________________________________________ Address ___________________________________________ City _______________________________ State___________ Zip _______________ Phone __________________________ E-mail _____________________________________________ ❏ Payment Enclosed ❏ Bill Me Later ❏ Visa ❏ MasterCard ❏ Discover ❏ American Express Complete the following for credit card orders:

_/_/_/_/_/_/_/_/_/_/_/_/_/_/_/_/ CARD NUMBER EXPIRATION DATE

_/_/_/_/ MONTH

YEAR

SIGNATURE

PLEASE PRINT NAME AS IT APPEARS ON THE CREDIT CARD

Mail to: Circulation Dept., P.O. Box 370930, Denver, CO 80237-0930

FOR EXPRESS SUBSCRIPTION, CALL TOLL FREE 1-800-850-2769 or order online at www.wlj.net

If there is a drawback to fall calving, it is summer weaning. Calves are under enough stress as it is. Add summer heat and humidity, and you’ve got the potential for real trouble. “Stress is cumulative,” says Max Irsik, University of Florida Extension beef veterinarian. “The stress from moving the calves, handling them, vaccinating them, heat stress … it can take three weeks for their immune systems to get back to normal.” John Harrison agrees weaning and heat are a good way of doubling your problems. The Cairo, GA, producer schedules for an October through December calving season, but that means he weans in June and July. And it doesn’t help that cattle are designed without a good radiator. “They don’t sweat,” Irsik says. “They either have to radiate heat out of their bodies or their respiratory system. They also have a large rumen that is nothing more than a fermentation vat. It acts as a heat pump.” Temperatures don’t even have to be that high to put calves at risk. If humidity levels are up to 60 percent and it is 85F (or any combination that raises the temperature humidity index to 79), conditions can put calves in the danger zone. And a heat-stressed bovine is easy to spot. Irsik says, “They sling their heads, lick themselves and hang their tongues out. They pant, drool and stick their heads out so the air passage has the least resistance. Their core temperature goes up, and they can get in a hyperthermic condition. When they do, there isn’t a lot you can do about it. They can die.” While you can’t change the weather or redesign cattle, there are practices to minimize the effects of heat stress at weaning.

Fenceline weaning At weaning, Harrison

puts calves in a small, familiar pasture and simply moves cows to an adjoining pasture. They’ll sniff each other through the fence. It takes about three days for the calves to stop bawling and fence walking. At that point, they are moved to a millet pasture. “Fenceline weaning is definitely less stressful on calves,” Irsik says. “I would think in some cases it would help calves deal with heat stress.”

Well-placed feed and water troughs Calves aren’t going to eat and drink like they should because they are walking the fence looking for their mamas. Therefore, dehydration can be a factor. Calves generally need two to three gallons of water per 100 pounds of body weight a day. Harrison says he tries to avoid dehydration by putting feed troughs on the fenceline and a water trough at each end of the lot. “They can’t help but find the feed and water when they are walking the fence,” he says.

A source of shade Shade is the biggest thing when the summer sun is beating down and humidity levels are climbing. Harrison says trees shade both the small pasture he uses to wean his home-raised calves and the lot he uses for his custom preconditioning calves. He also keeps the lot size down for customers’ calves to minimize pacing and walking. Three acres for 40 to 50 calves is typical, he says.

Vaccination timing Vaccinations and weaning used to be handled at the same time at Harrison’s farm, but he’s got new ideas about that. “Now we try to vaccinate three weeks ahead of weaning time,” Harrison says. “That cuts down on the stress at weaning. Those blackleg shots are tough on them.” He gives booster

vaccinations a week after weaning when calves have had a chance to settle down. Harrison’s neighbor, cattleman Caylor Ouzts, has a similar strategy for his fallborn calves. “We do all our vaccinating and castrating while they are still on the cows. It is too stressful to vaccinate them when we wean.” He also waits to give the second series of vaccinations until two or three weeks after weaning. And when he and Harrison do their post-weaning vaccinations, they agree the key is to start first thing in the morning and try to finish before it gets too hot.

Breed for heat tolerance Harrison has a purebred and commercial Hereford operation. Red cattle have a reputation for handling heat better than black cattle, but he goes a step further. After a round of AI using semen from purebred Hereford bulls, he turns in Brahman bulls to clean up. “The Braford calves never go in the shade,” he says. Ouzts’ calves are Angussired and black, but he is careful to keep one-quarter Brahman blood in them. “That is perfect for down here,” he says.

Measure heat stress While there is nothing you can do about the weather, in some cases you can plan weaning around it. There are several online tools to help at www.ars. usda.gov/Main/docs. htm?docid=21306. Here you can find a seven-day forecast specifically looking at heat stress potential. The site also lists environmental and animal factors that contribute to heat stress. At www.noble.org/Ag/ Livestock/Heat/ you will find a livestock weather hazard guide for beef cattle based on temperature and humidity. — DTN

USCA and NFU to hold meetings on checkoff’s future The U.S. Cattlemen’s Association (USCA) last week released a joint letter from USCA and National Farmers Union (NFU) to Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack indicating the two groups will host a national discussion of the beef checkoff and the program’s future. On July 1, USCA requested Vilsack’s intervention into the controversy surrounding the beef checkoff. Representatives of USCA and NFU were in Washington, D.C., last week to meet with USDA officials about the checkoff program. The groups say that after conferring with the secretary, as well as other national cattle, farm and marketing organizations, the decision was made to proceed with plans to host industry-wide meetings to seek consensus on the divisive issues that are eroding investor trust and confidence in the beef checkoff and threatening

the very future of the program. USCA and NFU say the time has come for an expanded cattle industrywide discussion of the checkoff that will go beyond the policy changes being addressed by the Cattlemen’s Beef Board (CBB) in Florida during early August. “The upcoming Farm Bill process in Congress presents an excellent legislative opportunity to make enhancements to the beef checkoff,” wrote USCA and NFU. “The planned industry-wide meetings will provide an opportunity for an agreement within the cattle industry on amending the Beef Promotion Act and Order to achieve the changes necessary for meaningful reform of the program.” While logistics are currently being worked out, USCA and NFU say the initial meeting will likely be held in a central location served by major airlines to

make travel as efficient as possible for participants. USCA President Jon Wooster, San Lucas, CA, said the industry-wide talks will be all-inclusive, that all national groups with cattle interests will be invited to participate, and that USDA and CBB officials will also be involved in the process. “We will be moving forward methodically and expediently to organize the first of what could be a series of meetings,” said Wooster. “While we hope that the CBB meeting in Florida next week is positive and productive and results in the adoption of the proposed ‘Roles and Responsibilities’ recommendations, we also know that there is a more expansive discussion to be held and that it should incorporate the interests of all checkoff investors. This is an exciting opportunity to help shape the checkoff program’s future.” — WLJ

WESTERN LIVESTOCK JOURNAL

AUGUST 1, 2011

California governor signs bill to preserve Williamson Act After months of uncertainty, a bill signed by Gov. Brown last week reinstates a revised Williamson Act program intended to preserve the state’s landmark farmland-conservation law. Brown signed Assembly Bill 1265 by Assemblyman Jim Nielsen, R-Gerber, which establishes the revised form of the WilliamsonAct through 2016. The bill, which takes effect immediately, authorizes counties to revise the term for Williamson Act contracts

from 10 years to nine years or from 20 to 18 years—a 10 percent reduction in contract length in return for retaining 90 percent of the property tax relief offered by the act. “For more than 45 years, the Williamson Act has served as an effective conservation program that helps farmers withstand development pressures and stay in farming,” California Farm Bureau Federation (CFBF) President Paul Wenger said. “We applaud the governor for upholding the real benefits

of the Williamson Act.” The act became law in 1965 and protects 16.5 million acres of California farmland. Named for its author, Kern County Assemblyman John Williamson, the law requires farmland enrolled in the program to be assessed on its production value, rather than its “factored baseyear value” under Proposition 13. Participating landowners agree to retain their land in agricultural use for the length of the contract. For many years, the state

Modified distillers grains, glycerin in finishing diets reduce oxidation in meat Research has shown that adding distillers grains to livestock diets can cause quicker oxidation or brownish discoloration of meat. Since appearance of meat is the major influence on consumer purchasing decisions at the grocery store, some University of Minnesota (U of M) researchers set out to determine whether the addition of crude glycerin to beef diets can counteract the effect of distillers grains on meat color. Much research has been done on the change in fatty acid profile in swine fed distillers grains, according to Kaitlyn McClelland, graduate research assistant for the U of M’s Department of Animal Science. Little research has been done, however, on the effect in beef cattle. Distillers grains change the amount of saturated versus unsaturated fat within the animal, McClelland said. “One of the problems with distillers grains is that it will increase the unsaturated fat in swine and beef, though it’s not as noticeable in beef,” she said. “When you feed glycerin, it increases some of the saturated fat, so it will bring the levels back to normal.”

When animals are fed something that causes them to deposit more saturated fat, it can potentially increase the rate at which the meat will oxidize or turn brown, which in turn reduces the meat’s shelf life. “Unsaturated fats have double bonds, two bonds linking carbons. Saturated fats have just one,” McClelland explained. “Double bonds are more likely to oxidize, so foods with a lot of unsaturated fat, even though unsaturated fat is healthier, will go rancid more quickly.” The goal of the research was to evaluate the use of modified distillers grains (MDGs) and crude soybean glycerin to see how that affected beef cattle performance and growth in finishing diets, and also to determine how that affected beef quality, McClelland said. The U of M research team conducted a feed trial using 48 cross-bred steers and heifers. The experimental diets replaced steam-flaked corn with 35 percent MDGs, 10 percent glycerin or a combination of both. The researchers evaluated strip steaks, ground beef and bologna produced from the cattle

Ag leader calls for balanced energy policy Smart energy policy must balance renewable and conventional sources of energy, stress self-sufficiency and avoid diluting science with politics, according to California Farm Bureau Federation President Paul Wenger. Wenger discussed energy policy during a speech hosted by the Consumer Energy Alliance in conjunction with the National Association of Regulatory Utility Commissioners summer meeting in Los Angeles. “We are making progress in renewable energy but there is still a gap in the science and the affordability of some renewable sources,” Wenger said. “Policy makers need to make an honest assessment of the potential for renewable energy sources before imposing standards that may be impractical or impossible to meet. At the same time, we must pursue safe development of available domestic sources, including offshore oil supplies and the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge.” Wenger noted that nearly 2,000 California farmers have installed solar panels, wind turbines or other forms of renewable energy production, making California the

No. 1 state for on-farm energy generation. But he warned that renewable energy policies have also placed some farmland under threat. “There’s a new land rush that’s been touched off by pressure to maximize solar energy development,” he said. “Solar developers look for flat land with good solar exposure, and that often means farmland. Government policy should conserve productive farmland and limit solar development to marginally productive lands.” Wenger said smart energy policy should also place more emphasis on hydroelectricity. “Hydroelectric energy is an important, renewable resource, with multipurpose benefits that include flood control, water supply and recreation. But only hydro facilities smaller than 30 megawatts count toward the state’s renewable mandate,” he said. “This is a case where politics gets in the way of sound energy decisions because reservoir construction has fallen out of favor. We must broaden our thinking in order to assure a safe and reliable domestic energy supply.” — WLJ

carcasses for moisture loss, meat color and consumer sensory acceptability. The team observed no differences in hot carcass weight, ribeye area, backfat, USDA yield or quality grade or marbling score. Also, no differences were observed in objective tenderness scores of the steaks, and no differences in lightness, redness or yellowness in the color values for steaks or ground beef. Consumer color scores for lean color, surface discoloration and overall appearance were also not affected. The research indicated that the addition of MDG and glycerin did not negatively affect beef quality or color. Since the team was able to achieve the same color scores feeding modified distillers and glycerin, that means beef producers can feed those products in place of corn and get the same result. “You can feed 35 percent MDG and 10 percent glycerin and still have a very consistent beef product, the same as feeding a traditional corn or soybean diet,” McClelland said. “We found no differences between the control treatment and the experimental treatment.” McClelland said the researchers will be continuing similar research, pending funding, and would like to further research fat and fat oxidation. She said the U of M research team is in talks with the Minnesota Soybean Council for research funding. — DTN

California’s Newest Bull Sale

reimbursed participating counties their foregone property tax revenue. But those payments, known as subventions, became a frequent bargaining point in state budget talks and eventually were eliminated. That caused some counties to consider discontinuing the Williamson Act. Farm Bureau proposed the program contained in AB 1265 as an alternative to encourage counties to maintain the Williamson Act. Wenger said the law signed by the governor “will save farmers and ranchers throughout California millions of dollars in property taxes and we’re glad he signed it. The benefits to all Californians include locally produced food and contracts that ensure land enrolled in the program cannot be used for any purpose besides agriculture.” Having the law officially back on the books is especially important for eight counties that have already adopted the revised version of the farmland protection program. Kings, Madera, Merced, Mendocino, Shasta, Stanislaus, Tulare and Yolo counties all adopted an earlier version of the program under Senate Bill 863 last year, only to see it repealed in March as part of budget legislation. The governor’s action means the counties currently participating in the program can continue to implement the shorter-term contracts for the 2011 tax year.

The provisions of the alternative funding mechanism include: • If counties receive less than one-half of their foregone General Fund property tax revenue from the Open Space Subvention Program, they would be authorized to implement a new provision of the Williamson Act to allow contracts to go from 10 years to nine years or, in the case of 20-year Williamson Act contracts, to 18 years. • The 10 percent reduction in the length of the contract restrictions would trigger a recapture of 10 percent of the participating landowners’ property tax savings. • Any increased revenues generated by properties under a new contract will be paid to the county. Because the increased revenue will be allocated exclusively to counties, they would recoup 50 percent or more of their foregone property tax revenue. • Landowners may choose not to renew their contracts and begin the termination process. “The eight participating counties can expect to recoup $6 million in revenue through this revised program,” said John Gamper, CFBF taxation and land use director. “Once adopted by counties, the program’s operations should be pretty simple.” At the same time, the benefits to the public of protecting farmland have been retained, Wenger said. “Besides locally produced food, experts agree agriculture will provide economic

stimulus for the foreseeable future,” he said. “We’ve reached a point where people understand how significant food production is and that in California, the pressures on farmland and farmers are intense, which tends to drive up land values. “The Williamson Act helps address some of those issues and at the same time preserves open space for species and habitat protection,” Wenger said. “And, with the revised Williamson Act signed by the governor, funds to cover subventions to counties for foregone property tax no longer come from the state’s General Fund, but the benefits to farmers and the public remain.” Along with acknowledging Nielsen’s role in introducing the bill, CFBF Administrator Rich Matteis noted that Sens. Lois Wolk, D-Davis, and Doug La Malfa, R-Richvale, both served as principal co-authors. “Of course, we also want to express our sincere appreciation to Gov. Brown for helping to save this valuable land conservation program,” Matteis said, “and to all the members of the Save the Williamson Act Coalition who worked diligently for re-enactment of the law.” In a prepared statement, Nielsen said the new law “will provide peace of mind and hope for the future for our hard-working California farm families and their employees.” — California Farm Bureau Federation

Helping ranchers like you improve their land, their lives, and their bottom line for 30 years!

Ranching For Profit

The Business School of the Livestock Industry “No single thing has had more influence in the way we do business than the principles taught in RFP.” — Henry Giacomini, California

Springfield, MO • Aug. 7 – 13, 2011 Boise, ID • Dec. 4 – 10, 2011 Colorado Springs, CO • Jan. 8 – 14, 2012 Billings, MT • Jan. 22 – 28, 2012 Call for our free information packet:

707-429-2292

Ranch Management Consultants, Inc.

www.ranchingforprofit.com

60 years of breeding Registered Angus Genetics

SEPTEMBER 12, 2011 • 1 P.M.

See us online at www.westerntirerecyclers.com

Cattlemen’s Livestock Market • Galt, CA

Selling 75 Registered Angus Bulls • Selling a large percentage of calving-ease bulls • Selling fall yearlings and long yearlings

Greg & Louise Schafer 6966 County Rd. 6 Orland, CA 95693 530-865-3706, Home 209-988-6599, Cell bigschaf@sbcglobal.net

Ed & Josh Amador 5136 Laird Rd. Modesto, CA 95358 Bill Traylor & Tony Martin 209-538-4597, Ed’s Cell 209-499-9182, Josh’s Cell P.O. Box 688 amadorfarms@msn.com Winters, CA 95694 530-304-2811, Bill’s Cell 530-681-8602, Tony’s Cell rlangus@wavecable.com

Advertise with special BULL PEN ads. Priced right. Provide extra readership. Your BULL PEN ad will also be added to the Classified Corral online, where we get 7,500 viewers a month.

GET A 2X2 BOXED AD! • 3 weeks, $75 per insertion • 6 weeks, $65 per insertion •12 weeks, $50 per insertion

HURRY - ACT NOW!

Call Preston at 800-850-2769,

e-mail to classified@wlj.net or fax your copy to 303-722-0155.

AUGUST 1, 2011

WESTERN LIVESTOCK JOURNAL

WLJ Classified Coral has helped advertisers sell MILLIONS of dollars of cattle, land and products over the decades. Now, the Classifed Corral has added enhancements to help your ads grab more attention. A picture increases visibilityy of your ad and makes itt o five times more likely to sell! Add a black and whitee picture for FREE! If a picture is worth a tthousand words, then a ccolor picture is worth five tthousand words. Add a color picture for $35 per co pi picture.

THIS HORSE WILL RUN! $1,500, OBO

Standout from the competition with a HIGHLIGHTED ad for only $15.

GET THE MOST OUT OF YOUR CLASSIFIED AD! ADD A HIGHLIGHTED BACKGROUND $ FOR ONLY

Call Preston

800-850-2769

Price Reduction

New Today

Grab some attention with our Attention Grabbers! $20

Must See! Priced to $ELL Simple, but effective, ad upgrades: MAD Ad $2 or BAB AD $5 Bold header and (Boxed and bold) contact Information PASTURE AVAILABLE for 60-70 pair on irrigated pasture, Full care, available June 14-Oct., 2011. Near Redding, CA. 500-456-7890

SUMMER PASTURE Southern Idaho. 5,000 acres. Good water, good fences. 800123-4567

PASTURE AVAILABLE for 60-70 pair on irrigated pasture, Full care, available June 14-Oct., 2011. Near Redding, CA. 500-456-7890

If you don’t need it anymore, someone else does! Spring/Summer Clean with WLJ Classif ied Ads!

E T T I N G

O L O R F U L

WLJ Classified Cor ral

us on Facebook and get 25% of f your next classified ad in WLJ!

Call Preston for more information!

800-850-2769

All Classif ied Corral ads posted FREE online at WL J.net.

Visit WJL.net and take a look!

Stockpiling of fescue pasture vital for winter use Beef producers who attended a recent series of pasture management meetings in southern Iowa learned of the importance of timely and careful stockpiling of fescue pastures. Iowa State University (ISU) Extension and Outreach and Iowa Beef Center sponsored the meetings that focused on fescue management and featured ISU Extension beef program specialist Joe Sellers and Craig Roberts of the University of Missouri. “Producers planning to stockpile fescue pastures for late fall and winter grazing should think about reducing alkaloid levels in the fescue with good management practices,” Sellers said. “Most tall fescue stands have an endophyte that produces alkaloids that can hurt cattle performance.” Sellers said producers often think of higher body temperatures, less grass consumption, more time in shade and ponds, and symptoms like loss of tail switches and lameness as negative effects of fescue, but there can be more to that story. While these are a concern, the biggest effects from fescue are reduced gains, lowered milk production and

poor rebreeding rates in cattle. Roberts said the problem has a high price tag. “It’s estimated that fescue toxicosis costs the Missouri beef industry over $160 million per year,” Roberts said. “Similar problems exist in Iowa, but there are several proven management steps that can reduce the problem regardless of the location.” Practices that help cattle perform better on fescue have to do with managing the levels of alkaloid consumed by cattle. These practices include reducing spring nitrogen fertilization rates, providing more diverse stands with legumes and other grasses, rotating cattle to non-fescue-based summer pastures, haying or clipping fescue during the late spring and early summer to reduce stems and seed heads, and supplementing feeds like soybean or corn co-products, Roberts said. Using several of these steps can alleviate the effects of fescue, but there is no “silver bullet” that will eliminate the problem. Studies looking at other methods like mineral additives and de-worming have found

mixed results. This past winter, several producers had more intense cases of fescue foot and other fescue-related problems than during previous years. In part, this was due to longer than recommended rest periods, followed by grazing during very cold weather, Sellers said. “Many years of research in Iowa and Missouri on stockpiling resulted in recommending stockpiling periods of 70 to 100 days. Much longer rest periods will increase plant volume, but also will reduce forage quality and increase the alkaloid levels in the grass,” he said. “If pastures are rested longer than 100 days, producers must be careful when those plots are grazed. Graze mature bred cows in mid-pregnancy and dilute the fescue with other feeds. Late summer applications of moderate nitrogen rates can result in more grass growth and extended winter grazing, with less impact on alkaloids.” For more information on stockpiled grazing and managing fescue, contact Sellers by phone at 641/203-1270 or by email at sellers@iastate. edu. — WLJ

Shift may skew marketing numbers U.S. CATTLE ON FEED

Cattle on feed

1,000+ Capacity Feedlots

(from page 1)

Mexico all the way to the Carolinas,” they reported. “How long will we continue to place more cattle than last year with USDA still estimating that the supply of feeder cattle is smaller than last year? We’ve posed that question several times and still think the answer is, ‘Not much longer,’ even though placements keep rolling in.” The placements of cattle into feedlots was concentrated on the lower end of the weight range. Placements of cattle under 600 pounds rose 5 percent while 600- to 699-pound placements increased 22 percent and cattle placements in the 700- to 799-pound class were 3 percent ahead of June 2010. Placements of heavyweight cattle in the 800-pound-plus category fell 10 percent. Analysts last week noted that although placements are likely to decline in the near-term, the July 1 report may not have captured the full extent of shipments in the southern Plains, so the August report could see further year-over-year gains in placement numbers as conditions continue to decline in the heat. Interestingly though, the number of cattle outside feedlots continues to decline. According to the NASS cattle inventory report, which was also released July 22, the number of cattle outside feedlots dropped 2.5 percent, or 960,000 head from a year earlier, the Livestock Marketing Information Center (LMIC) noted last week. “Calf crop and feeder cattle supplies outside feedlots have both shrunk. USDA reported the first estimate of the 2011 U.S. calf crop at 35.5 million head (down 0.5 percent from a year ago),” LMIC analysts noted. “The calf crop was larger than anticipated and somewhat larger than historical relationships would indicate, so USDA may reduce that estimate in the Jan. 1, 2012,

Million Head 12.5

2010

2011

12.0 11.5 11.0 10.5 10.0 9.5 9.0

Jan. Feb. Mar. Apr. May Jun. Jul. Aug. Sept. Oct. Nov. Dec.

U.S. CATTLE ON FEED 1,000+ Capacity Feedlots Number Placed Million Head 3.0

2011

2010

2.5 2.0 1.5 1.0 Jan. Feb. Mar. Apr. May Jun. Jul. Aug. Sept. Oct. Nov. Dec.

report.” As a result, it could mean there are even fewer feeder cattle that will come to market in the second half of the year, which could leave feeder cattle buyers scrambling to fill bunk space going into the fourth quarter and beyond. That could also have additional impacts on the market place. LMIC analysts said last week that the number of cattle on feed in lots of a one-time capacity of less than 1,000 head declined 1 percent according to the inventory report. “Those feedlots are not included in the USDANASS monthly Cattle on Feed report. Overall, those smaller feedlots in the U.S. currently have about 4 percent less cattle in their feedlots than a year ago, while the monthly reported 1,000 head and larger feedlots have about 4 percent more cattle on feed,” they said. “So, there is a structural change happening in the U.S. cattle feeding industry and the pace at which smaller feedlots are exiting the industry appears to be accelerating in 2011.” That structural change could also be having impacts on the numbers in the cattle

on feed report. Because the smaller feedlots are not sampled by NASS for the cattle on feed report, it could be leading to a shift in how numbers are reported. For the second month in a row, the cattle marketing number has come in larger than expected, rising 5 percent during June to 2.10 million head. LMIC’s Erica Rosa said last week that the increased proportion of cattle being fed in larger lots could have an impact on the report and may be causing that number to be reported higher than in years past. “It may be that what we are seeing is the result of more cattle being fed in large lots that are being sampled by NASS versus small lots that aren’t surveyed. If that’s the case, the data would be capturing more of the cattle being sold than in the past, ” she noted. “That’s one possibility that is being discussed, particularly because the marketing number is significantly higher than actual steer and heifer slaughter numbers, which were up just 1.9 percent for the same period.” — John Robinson, WLJ Editor

WESTERN LIVESTOCK JOURNAL

Best practices for emergency haying, CRP grazing Several counties have been approved by USDA for emergency haying and grazing of Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) acreage due to the extreme drought and shortage of forage this year. Several factors are important when haying or grazing prairie hay this summer, said Walt Fick, Kansas State University Research and Extension range management specialist. “If producers haven’t cut their hay yet, I would encourage them to do so soon. Harvest date is the most important management decision affecting hay production. Timing affects production, quality, composition, amount of regrowth, and subsequent plant vigor,” Fick said. Producers should consider raising the cutter bar to leave at least a three-inch (in.) stubble, he said. Maximum yield of native hay generally occurs in August, but waiting until then results in lower quality and less regrowth, and can alter the composition and vigor of stands if done repeatedly over a number of years, Fick said. Plus, peak yield may have already occurred in drought-stricken counties this year. The quality of prairie hay will keep declining with time. “Crude protein declines about 1 percentage unit every two weeks during the month of July, and will be no higher than 5 percent by late August when maximum yield normally occurs,” he said. The timing of haying on species composition and vigor of stands can also be important, Fick added. “Repeated mowing around Sept. 1 can change a bluestem-dominated hay meadow to a stand dominated by broadleaf species. The change occurs because the grasses do not have a sufficient time period to replenish food reserves before frost occurs,” he explained. Grazing of prairie hay this year should be managed carefully, the agronomist said. “Heavy grazing in the late summer can be detrimental to next year’s production. The key is stocking rate. We need to leave enough leaf area so the plants can continue to carry out photosynthesis and store food reserves going into the winter,” Fick said. How much leaf area is enough? In CRP stands planted with mid-size and tall grasses, a 6- to 8-in. average stubble height, or about 1,000 to 1,500 pounds per acre, would be optimum, he said. Forage quality will also be low in the late season and livestock producers may want to consider how this could affect the management of their cow herds, including culling decisions, early weaning and related practices, the range management specialist said. — WLJ

GUEST opinion

Many producers I have visited with lately have said, “GIPSA, I thought that was already decided..” While we may all wish it would just go away, the reality is that we need to continue working to stop the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration’s (GIPSA) proposed marketing regulation from going forward. I recently testified in front of the U.S. House of Representatives Small Business Subcommittee on Agriculture, Energy and Trade, chaired by Rep. Scott Tipton from Colorado, to encourage the committee to stop the proposed USDA regulations. I am a cow/calf producer and small meat packer. I have been a producer all of my life, first in Wyoming, and now in Colorado. My family has joined with six other families as co-owners of Homestead Meats, a direct-beef marketing business. To enhance its directmarketing beef business, Homestead Meats owns its own USDA-inspected packing plant, therefore making us producers, feeders and packers. We have chosen this small business model as a way to differentiate our product, brand our product, and provide ourselves with our own dedicated marketing program. The proposed GIPSA rule will significantly hinder our small business model, force us to lay off our employees, and cripple our ability to market our cattle the way we want.

Water intoxication can be managed Water (from page 1)

daily,” explained Dr. Ted McCollum of the Texas AgriLife Extension Service.” This year, as a result of no forage growth and a relatively low intake of dry forage, daily water consumption from grazed forage only provides 0.4–0.6 gallons daily.” Water intoxication typically follows water deprivation which occurs when cattle cannot, or sometimes will not, consume enough water. Many factors can predispose to water deprivation in cattle that are already experiencing decreases in water consumption from dry forage. This summer has seen many surface tanks and streams dry up. Water deprivation has been seen perhaps more commonly in these situations. Deprivation can accidentally occur when there are malfunctions in water systems. Deprivation can also occur even when it looks like there is plenty of water. Cattle behavior can also play a part in their susceptibility to water deprivation. They are creatures of habit and may become anxious to return to their previous grazing sites even if the tanks are dried up and boggy or the availability of water is gone. It should never be assumed that cattle will locate on water by themselves after moving to a new location and it’s important that they be driven to and held up on water in new pastures. They still may walk the fence to return to their previous watering site. “Water deprived cattle over-drink because they are thirsty,” said TVMDL’s

Sprowls. “But when cattle over-consume water and rehydrate too quickly, a disruption in electrolyte balance leads to more water moving into the brain, resulting in edema.” There is a physiologic balance between water within cells and water outside the cells that are within in the body tissues. When overconsumption of water occurs in a dehydrated animal, there is a rapid progression of the normal transfer of fluid into the cells in the brain which then lead to brain swelling. “Consequently, clinical signs include wobbliness, stumbling, seizures and acute death. Cattle can die within two to three hours and are often found dead next to a water source,” described Sprowls. “Owners report finding several dead cattle next to stock tanks where they have just been moved to. It progresses pretty quickly. The cattle that remain standing usually survive without complication. But if they ‘hit the ground,’ they typically die fairly quickly.” Water intoxication does not look or behave like classic polioencephalomalacia secondary to thiamine deficiency. Water intoxication is usually a clinical diagnosis based on the history of water deprivation followed by access to and over-drinking from a new water source as described by the veterinarian or cattle owner. On postmortem examination of these animals, the excessive water has usually already moved out of the rumen. The disease can be confirmed with tissue samples taken from the brain.

“Cattle can usually survive a day or two without water, sometimes three or four days in a wet spring when there’s lots of moisture in the grass and the ambient temperatures are mild,” Sprowls explained. “But with dry forage, high heat, low humidity and evaporation of water from panting, cattle can get into trouble quick. When some waterdeprived cattle over-consume, the time interval between over-hydrating and clinical signs can be short.” McCollum added that with surface water down in tanks and ponds and virtually no rain this year, evaporation from the triple-digit heat has been concentrating salts and mineral solids which affect water quality. Water deprivation/water intoxication is a management problem which has been intensified with this summer’s unrelenting heat coupled with Texas’ ongoing drought. It’s difficult physiologically for water-deprived cattle to go from no water to free choice water in conditions being presented this summer. And it’s difficult to regulate water consumption in a thirsty cow. This problem stresses the importance of locating cattle on water when moved to new pastures from situations where they’ve been water deprived for various reasons. Slow, limited access to initial minimal amounts of water in troughs is a potential way to prevent immediate overconsumption of water in cattle that have been water deprived. But that may be easier said than done with a thirsty cow. — Ginger Elliott, WLJ Correspondent

AUGUST 1, 2011

GIPSA’s far-reaching effects will harm producers and consumers

Our cow/calf business is built on relationships and alliances. We have successfully marketed our calves through an alliance for several years. That alliance has provided a relationship that has provided feedback on the quality of our cattle—quality that earns us a premium. This information has been used to address specific genetic traits for marbling, and the result is a significant increase in the Choice grade and subsequent price received for our cattle. The proposed rule would require my buyer to justify any discount or premium paid. These contracts are private business transactions and should not be made available for public review and scrutiny. I strongly believe in the fundamental American business tenet of a willing seller and a willing buyer being able to enter into a private business transaction as it protects my pricing and marketing mechanisms. This alternative marketing arrangement has worked for our family and many other producers. For years, we’ve been doing exactly what USDA has promoted— selling directly to the consumer; operating as a small processor in a strategic area of the country; being rewarded for adding value to the end product; and producing local food. However, under this rule, our marketing options will be limited because we were innovative and took market risks. Value-based marketing

has given our family and small producers across the country the opportunity to compete at the highest level. The consumer has been the one to determine the fair and justified price paid for the value-added product, not USDA. The proposed GIPSA rule ultimately may take away the choice consumers want, demand and deserve at the meat case. These alternative marketing arrangements have allowed producers to get paid for the added value. These arrangements ensure a consistent supply of livestock and poultry that meet the requirements of such programs. Without this consistent supply, these programs cannot be sustained. I am also concerned that there is neither clarity nor clear definition in terminology in the proposed GIPSA rule. The vague definitions, such as “unfair” or “reasonable person” will open the door to an increased number of lawsuits because mere accusations, without economic proof, would suffice for USDA or an individual to bring a lawsuit against a buyer. This will be a trial lawyer’s bonanza and will devastate small businesses such as mine. The proposed rule changes allow for persons to sue without proof of injury or harm. They just have to say that their price was not fair. Who determines fairness? Will increased government intervention and litigation determine fairness? Arbitrary

judgment by a federal agency will only increase paperwork and costs. Who pays for this increased intervention and litigation? The producer will. When costs increase for the processor, the trickledown effect is to decrease the price paid to the producer that supplies the raw commodity. The proposed rule changes are not clearly understood, and the unintended consequences are farreaching across this industry and will ultimately harm small- and medium-sized producers and consumers the most. The agriculture marketplace has given our family the opportunity to raise beef, improve our product, enter into value-added contracts, receive payment for that improved product, and expand our business into a direct-marketing enterprise. Each step has been a private business contract between a willing buyer and a willing seller. I do not want increased scrutiny in private business contracts, nor increased litigation. Government intrusion into the marketplace is not the answer. The House has spoken and blocked funding for the proposed rule. Now it is the Senate’s turn. My fellow producers, join me in urging the U.S. Senate to take a stand on the side of cattlemen and women, on the side of the free enterprise marketplace, on the side of consumers, and stop the proposed GIPSA rule from moving forward. — Robbie LeValley

FIND WATER

• Image and Locate Your Hidden Aquifer • Affordable • Avoid Dry Holes • Drill Your Highest Volume Wells

Exclusive 2-Dimension Images World-wide Imaging since 1990 Degreed Geologists

Pinedale, WY Sacramento, Ca Lubbock , Tx Tulsa, OK Nationwide

307-231-0956 800-401-9092 806-785-8810 918-496-8355 800-401-9092

www.hydroresources.com

At Thousand Hills Ranch Pismo Beach, California

17TH ANNUAL Sale

byy the Sea b ea

August 20, 2011

1 o’clock in the afternoon

TEX Hanna 0458 BW I+1.5 WW I+55 YW I+96 Milk I+27 CWT I+22 MRB I+.26 RE I+.34 FAT I+.004 $W +30.62 $F +33.23 $G +21.82 - Ài\Ê- 6Ê > Ê ÃÜiÀÊääÎxÊUÊ > \Ê > >Ê vÊ `>ÞÊ£äÓÎ $B $ +50.52

With Guest Consignor:

J/V Angus Bill Traylor 530-304-2811 Tony Martin 530-681-8602

Offering top female genetics and select bulls! Private treaty steers sell at 4 p.m. SALE 131 R L Ê Ì° Ê Üi ]Ê Ê{nnxx BY: 517-546-6374 ÜÜÜ°V ÌÌ >ÃÃ V >ÌiÃ°V

John, Heather, Nathan, Joseph p & Ben Teixeira s s

Allan & Cecilia Teixeira 805-595-1404

www.teixeiracattleco.com leco.com Psalm 50:10

AUGUST 1, 2011

WESTERN LIVESTOCK JOURNAL

MARKET news

Beef Report

Markets at a Glance CHOICE FED STEERS CME FEEDER INDEX BOXED BEEF AVERAGE AVERAGE DRESSED STEERS LIVE SLAUGHTER WEIGHT* WEEKLY SLAUGHTER** BEEF PRODUCTION*** HIDE/OFFAL VALUE CORN PRICE DIRECT LAMB PRICE - OLD CROP

THIS WEEK

WEEK AGO

7/28/2011 107.00 T 134.63 T 175.25 T 171.00 T 1,272 S 651,000 T 14,385.9 S 13.63 T 6.84 S 194.85

109.57 136.05 176.59 174.67 1,267 667,000 13,873.0 13.65 6.79 N/A

WEEKLY COMPOSITE BOXED BEEF

YEAR AGO

WEEK ENDING July 22 July 15 July 8 July 1

92.83 112.64 153.69 148.22 1,269 666,000 1,4316.1 10.53 3.79 N/A

7/25 7/26 7/27 11065 11170 11107 11490 11615 11545 11880 11960 11872 12220 12280 12215

7/28 11145 11600 11897 12227

High* 12260 12600 12500 12632

Low* 10332 10960 11345 12210

7/22 7/25 7/26 7/27 7/28 August 13640 13605 13610 13537 13597 September 13737 13737 13792 13692 13772 October 13890 13820 13905 13807 13880 November 13912 13897 13937 13857 13910 *High and low figures are for the life of the contract.

High* 14395 14547 14525 14540

Low* 12272 12407 11880 12582

CME FEEDER CATTLE

Fed Cattle Trade HEAD COUNT AVG. WEIGHT

AVG. PRICE

July 25-27, 2011 Live FOB Steer ................ 10,805 ................ 1,339 ................... 107.01 Live FOB Heifer ................. 9,025 ................ 1,188 ................... 107.00 Dressed Steer ...................... 781 ................... 805 ................... 169.96 Dressed Heifer .................. 2,832 ................... 730 ................... 169.06 Week ending July 24, 2011 Live FOB Steer ................ 28,003 ................ 1,330 ................... 108.52 Live FOB Heifer ............... 29,119 ................ 1,181 ................... 108.27 Dressed Steer ................. 18,724 ................... 871 ................... 174.32 Dressed Heifer ................ 11,715 ................... 799 ................... 174.14 Week ending July 25, 2010 Live FOB Steer ................ 44,919 ................ 1,321 ..................... 94.79 Live FOB Heifer ............... 36,928 ................ 1,185 ..................... 94.82 Dressed Steer ................. 29,624 ................... 859 ................... 150.44 Dressed Heifer ................ 14,856 ................... 769 ................... 150.04

NATIONAL WEEKLY SLAUGHTER VOLUME

Domestic Imported Forward Contract .............49,324...............................2,613 Formula .........................229,038...............................1,881 Negotiated Cash ............139,751..................................451 Negotiated Grid ...............30,920..................................680 Packer Owned .................32,484......................................0 Total ..............................481,518...............................5,625 Delivery Month July 2011 August 2011 September 2011 October 2011 November 2011 December 2011

210,049 236,003 199,581 242,385 163,761 170,154

FORWARD BEEF SALES

Neg. Sales 0-21 days ........ 2,912 Neg. Sales 21+ days .......... 1,518 Forward sales..................... 3,408 Forward contract sales .......... 174 Domestic sales .................. 7,197 NAFTA Exports...................... 366 Overseas Exports.................. 449

Imports and Exports CANADIAN LIVESTOCK PRICES AND FEDERAL INSPECTED SLAUGHTER FIGURES, JULY 22 Weekly Alberta Direct Sales (4% shrink) Price Change* Slaughter steers, mostly select 1-2, 1,000-1,200 lb. N/A N/A Slaughter heifers, mostly select 1-2, 850-1,050 lb. N/A N/A Ontario Auctions Slaughter steers, mostly select 1-2, 1,000-1,200 lb. 113.56 -1.11 Slaughter heifers, mostly select 1-2, 850-1,050 lb. 109.99 -0.37 Slaughter cows, cutter and ut. 1-3, 1,100-1,400 lb. 71.86 +0.66 *Price comparison from two weeks ago.

Average feeder cattle prices for July 22, 2011 Steers: Southern Alberta Saskatchewan 400-600 lb. 156.31-162.90 No Quote 600-800 lb. 138.21-146.96 No Quote 800+ lb. 124.87-131.54 No Quote Heifers: 300-500 lb. 144.59 141.02 500-700 lb. 132.43-141.18 128.37-134.96 700-800+ lb. 121.03-126.07 120.75-127.20

Manitoba No Quote No Quote No Quote No Quote No Quote No Quote

USDA MEXICO TO U.S. WEEKLY LIVESTOCK IMPORTS Feeder cattle imports weekly and yearly volume. Species Week Feeders

Current Week 7/23/2011 12,540

Previous Year-to-date 7/16/2011 13,540

SELECT Loads/Price 1,537 170.47 1,345 172.84 1,347 171.86 1,181 171.56

UNGRADED Loads/Price 3,125 168.44 3,229 171.54 2,667 167.88 2,970 167.50

SELECTED AUCTION MARKETS

CME LIVE CATTLE

SLAUGHTER FORWARD CONTRACTS

CHOICE Loads/Price 2,261 176.46 2,117 178.48 1,910 177.69 1,834 176.69

————————————— FED BOXED BEEF —————————————————————————————————— DATE CHOICE SELECT COW BEEF CUTOUT 50% LEAN 90% LEAN July 28 175.25 170.04 147.24 78.17 180.90 July 27 175.73 170.41 147.23 77.95 180.96 July 26 174.74 170.94 148.14 77.78 182.58 July 25 175.34 170.22 148.07 77.96 182.67 July 22 175.70 170.11 147.01 79.31 180.70

Cattle Futures

August October December February

PRIME BRANDED Loads/Price Loads/Price 57 209.49 1,032 181.30 64 210.76 933 183.93 46 209.61 804 182.29 55 208.17 811 182.46

CUTOUTS

*Average weight for previous week. **Total slaughter for previous week. ***Estimated year-to-date figure in million pounds for previous week.

7/22 11055 11540 11915 12260

COMPREHENSIVE Loads/Price 8,012 176.04 7,758 178.19 6,773 177.29 6,850 176.61

Current Year-to-date

737,053

609,845

, USDA WEEKLY IMPORTED FEEDER CATTLE

Friday, July 22, 2011 Mexico to TX & NM Weekly Cattle Import Summary Receipts: Week ago Actual: 8,597. Year ago Actual: 9,288. Compared to last week, steer calves and yearlings steady early in the week, to 3.00 higher by week's end. Trade moderate to active, demand moderate to good. Bulk of supply consisted of steers and spayed heifers weighing 300-600 lbs. Feeder steers: Medium and large 1&2, 300-400 lbs., 138.00-153.00; 400-500 lbs., 128.00-143.00; 500-600 lbs., 118.00-133.00; Medium and large 2&3, 300-400 lbs., 128.00-143.00; 400-500 lbs., 118.00133.00; 500-600 lbs., 108.00-123.00. (All sales fob port of entry.)

MARKET SITUATION REPORT

WLJ compiles its market reports, ODJ stories and statistics from independent marketing organizations. The front page market story utilizes information from the above sources as well as weekly interviews conducted with analysts throughout the country. — The Editors

WEEK ENDING JULY 28, 2011 STEERS HEIFERS

DATE MARKET

200-300 LB.

NORTHWEST No report available Blackfoot, ID No report available Burley, ID July 23 231 Junction City, OR July 25 N/A Madras, OR July 20 481 Vale, OR July 25 150 Davenport, WA July 21 1,010 Toppenish, WA FAR WEST July 26 1,227 Chino Valley, AZ July 22 840 Cottonwood, CA No report available Famoso, CA July 28 1,745 Galt, CA July 19 N/A Madera, CA No report available Turlock, CA No report available Cedar City, UT July 26 260 Salina, UT

300-400 LB.

125-135 139.50 140-150 130-140

EAST July 22 Alabama July 26 Conway, AR July 22 Florida July 19 Lexington, KY July 25 Joplin, MO July 22 Tennessee July 20 Virginia

152

158-164 136-147

141-189 131-132.50

2,757

CANADA July 27 406 Lethbridge, Alberta

108-117 100-110.50 115-125 113-120 116-126 108-118

100-112.75 97-104.25 108-115

131-139

125.50 120.75-128

122-126.75 111-117.50

123 112

121.50-129.50 112-128

115.75-117

110-111.50

114-127

118-128.75 115-121 115-126 114-118

115-130 110-116

110-125 110-114

115-127 95-113 110-126 99-108

120-130 90-105 99-116

110-124

72-78 88-100 58-66 82-88

122-132.50 111-120

115-126

102-124 77-88.75

62.25-70.25

118-131

115-134 110-126

144-158 126-138.50

146-153.50 116-138.50

136.50-140 118-125

118-128.50 122 150.50-160 143-149.50 139.50-146.25 130.25-137.50

145 128.75-130.25 134-140

141 120-121 138

137 171-174 161-169 179-186 161-175 177-197 148-160 141

131-185 121-133 184-194 161-176 159-160

148-210 136-166 161

163-177 140-159 158-161.50 133-143

147.50-162 138.75-144 145-153 126-140

155-186 138-162 155-179 134-151 153-158 130-143 135-167 120-138 153.50-160 130-146 122-169 118-132 167-194 157-168 172-179 151-155 150

146-168 132-154 144-164 125-146 139-151 138-146 125-144 115-128 144-157.50 124-137 124-143 119-131 146-157 131-143 153.50-166 137-148 144-147 130-130.50

137.50-175 130-140 128-150 118-130 132-190 120-155 150-167 124-135

2,812 7,625

116-122.50 110-121 125-135 120-126 123-137 113-126

105-120 112-128 100-120.50

158.50-161 140-47

655

2,698

150 119-128

140-180 122.50-146

122.50-135 123-167.50 120-154 145 115-136.50

133-146 123-133 125-138 11-126 118-147.50 113-128 139-150 121-130 141-160 124-137 122-152 111-136 127-147 108-140

SLAUGHTER COWS PAIRS SLAUGHTER BULLS REPLACEMENTS

113-129 130-140 125-133 128-147 116-129

134-135

16,475

8,294

139 110-136 140-150 130-140 126-141 117-131

700-800 LB. 800 LB. -UP

114-123 107-116

127

NORTH CENTRAL No report available Iowa July 25 328 Montana July 27 3,100 Bassett, NE No report available Ericson, NE No report available Imperial, NE July 20 3,020 Kearney, NE July 22 2,250 Lexington, NE No report available Ogallala, NE No report available Dickinson, ND No report available Herreid, SD No report available Huron, SD No report available St. Onge, SD July 26 483 Riverton, WY July 22 764 Torrington, WY SOUTH CENTRAL No report available Colorado No report available La Junta, CO July 27 4,610 Dodge City, KS July 21 5,588 Pratt, KS No report available Salina, KS July 20 3,953 Roswell, NM July 21 3,400 Apache, OK July 20 10,579 El Reno, OK July 27 2,300 McAlester, OK July 25 10,045 Oklahoma City, OK July 22 1,408 Cuero, TX July 21 4,401 Dalhart, TX July 22 4,740 San Angelo, TX July 21 1,837 Tulia, TX

400-500 LB. 500-600 LB. 600-700 LB.

72.50-75 88.50-91

120.50 118.75 117-122

146.50-155 142 130.25-136 127-128.50 134.50-145.50 125-144.50 123.25-130 117.50-131.85 143-147 125-147.25 130.50-137 118-136 116-134 122-137 116-128 117-126 138-149.50 127-144 124-135.50 120-132 109-140 98-113 109-126 97-123 139.50-152 135-143.85 130-134.50 128-133 146-152 141-146 129-133 134-142 139.50-145.60 128-128.50 123

129.50-136 125.50 117-126 130-142 127-131 121.50-127 114.50 125-140.75 123-130 124.50-130.75 116.50-121.50 117-127 115-120 109-124 100-110 119.75-139.75 127-136.25 119-128 109-118 78-112 75-116 133-142.75 128-131 124.75-127.50 128-139 127

131-141.50

625-1,200

135.50-140 131.50-138 128-132.60 125.50-131.85 128.60-136.60 126.75-131.25 129.75

132.50-137.85 129.50-135.10 122.75-132.25 115.50-119.60 131-140 123-133.35 123-131.50 118-121.75

122-128 113-121 123-132 112-116 116-132 104-125 124.50-134 115-126 129-145.25 117-135 115-136 105-122 123-140 108-125

65-78 72-85 63-67 75-90

73-75.25 91.50

135.35-140 129-133 140-141.60 126.75-132.20

129-135 119-126 122-134 113-120 117-135 109-126 130-143 118-127 132-148 123-137 118-138.50 110-130.50 115-150.50 111-136

960-1,275

117 115.50 114.50 117 132.50-142.50 129-134.50 125.50-129.50 127.25

133

144-148 135-136.50 131-141 125-132.35

70-76 88.25-91.75 72-76.50 85-89 66-74 73-84 127 86-92 67-72 82-88

139.50-140.75 120.50

57-63 79-87.50 65-72.50 81-89.50

975-1,550 800-900 1,185-1,225

67.50-69 70.50-51

1,050-1,250 600-710

65-68 76-79 64-66.50 84-87.50 57-65.50

875-1,270 730-1,010 720-1,095 625-900 940-1,005

63-68 77-77.50

1,025-1,275 775-990

55-62.50 67-73

118-124.50 104-113 124.50-125 107-110 113-122 106-111 120-130 124.25-128.85 115-123 111-119.85 130.50-136.50 123.50 115 104 106-127 97-115.50 97-107 113-125.25 118.50 105.50-124 122 124-137.50 114-121.50

1,200-1,435 1,310

123-130.50 109-116.75

63-64.50 72.50-77 71-86 80-89 77-80.50 92-95.50

800-920 55-76.50 910-1,130 69-88 1,225 910-1,120

65-77.50 90-100.50

70-72 80-86

1,250-1,380

WESTERN LIVESTOCK JOURNAL

Projected corn ending stocks less than expected The July USDA Crop Production and World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates (WASDE) reports put corn ending stocks below trade expectations, allowing the corn market to recover from recent losses. The July USDA Crop Production and WASDE reports should set off fewer fireworks than we saw following the June 30 quarterly stocks and planted acreage reports. Traders were most interested in what USDA economists would do in the 2010 corn crop balance sheet, given the June quarterly stocks estimate for corn, which was 368 million bushels (mb) above the average pre-report estimate. Small adjustments were made in several categories, leading to an increase in ending stocks from the June report’s 730 mb to 880 mb.

At 880 mb, corn ending stocks rose less than the trade’s average estimate of 905 mb. This puts the ending stocks-to-use ratio at 6.6 percent versus 5.4 percent in June. USDA pegged corn feed and residual use at 5 billion bushels (bb); food/seed/industrial at 6.43 bb, with the ethanol component at 5.05 bb; and exports 1.875 bb. Soybean ending stocks are pegged at 200 mb. This increased the U.S. ending stocks-to-use ratio to about 6.1 percent. DTN Analyst John Sanow noted that the July look at new-crop ending stocks will probably be dropped in the recycle bin about as quickly as it was released given the re-survey of acreage, in the northern Plains. Corn ending stocks were pegged at 870 mb, below the trade’s expected 994 mb but

above the June figure of 695 mb. USDA’s national season-average price range was lowered from $6-$7 in June to $5.50-$6.50. Soybean ending stocks dropped as expected, to 175 mb. That is a more modest reduction than the trade’s average 169 mb target. The ending stocks-to-use ratio now is 5.4 percent. Though the season-average price was lowered $1 at each end of the range, projected at $12 to $14, it is still a record level. “The report for beans should be considered neutral-to-bearish, as old-crop ending stocks climbed 20 mb above June due to another decrease in exports while new-crop stocks fell less than expected to 175 mb,” Sanow said. World ending stocks should be viewed as bearish for corn and neutral for

beans, Sanow said. Corn ending stocks jumped in both marketing years: old-crop rose from 117.44 million metric tons (mmt) in June to 120.88 in July and new-crop, from 111.89 to 115.66. While USDA increased China’s 2011 imports by 1.5 mmt to 2 mmt, that is well below some trade expectations. “As expected, world stocks for corn rose to a more comfortable level in both marketing years. New-crop stocks fell when traders thought an increase was looming. Old-crop soybean stocks increased from 64.53 mmt to 65.88 while new-crop beans inched higher, from 61.59 mmt to 61.97 mmt. “In beans, only slight increases were seen, keeping the global picture at a comfortable level,” Sanow said. — DTN

Video sales post strong results last week Market (from page 1)

southern states over the past several weeks, so the fact that it may now be easing will help to alleviate concerns, helping both cow and feeder calf prices to move higher in the process. Last week, the cow beef cutout reached $147.90 while the 90 percent lean was quoted at $181.31 and 50 percent trim hit $78.46 at midday last Thursday. Despite the lack of enthusiasm for beef among domestic consumers and questions about the economic backdrop, the primary driver still appears to be the very tight cattle supply picture. Those concerns were reinforced last week as the market digested the recent cattle on feed and cattle inventory reports from USDA. Although the cattle on feed report showed an increase in cattle on feed numbers as of July 1, and an unexpected increase in placements in June, the over-riding concern is the lack of availability of feeder cattle during the second half of 2011, a problem that will persist well into 2012 and beyond. The drought in the south will further exacerbate that situation and make feeder cattle supplies tighter in the year ahead. The futures market is already pricing in tight supplies in both fed and feeder cattle contracts later this year. Vetterkind noted that both the October and December live cattle contracts have been showing signs of strength at the $114 and $118 levels, respectively. Those price levels bode well for the cash market in the second half of the year. However, analysts are noting that the premium structure is going to result in some feedlots deferring marketings to hit those time frames, which will ultimately result in cash prices that don’t meet current expectations for those months unless demand improves before that time.

the supply of feeder cattle later this year and into 2012. Buyers are bidding aggressively for offerings and video sale results have been strong across the board so far this summer. As a result, the feeder cattle futures have also been showing strength and recent trading in the August contract is reinforcing price levels in the range of $133-135, Vetterkind said last week, noting that the August contract could potentially rally back to the $138-140 level prior to expiration. Last week’s Superior Video Auction featuring 188,000 head also generated excellent results for sellers. The demand for cattle across the board was strong at the sale and prices were very good. For example, steers from the south-central region in the 800-840 lb. class sold in a range of $130.50-$132.25 and a sampling of steers in the 925 lb. class sold at $126. Lighter weight cattle in the same region also sold well. An offering of 130 steers in the 575 lb. category brought $147 while an 85-head splitload of 570-580 lb. cattle brought an average of $143.04. Cattlemen in north-central states fared equally well last week. A string of 325 steers in the 460-475 lb. class sold in a range of $158176 while heavier 550-590 lb. steers sold from $143 to $160. Heavier 750 lb. steers brought $135-143.75 on a string of 206 head while yearling cattle in the 900940 lb. category brought an average price of $129.10 on more than 1,000 head. Cash auction markets last week were a mostly mixed affair with many markets in

the southern tier reporting prices which were $2-4 lower while northern and western sales traded mostly $2-4 higher. There have been many reports of loud lots in the south, which are likely adding pressure to the market as calves are sold off the cow. The delays in trucking and excessive summer heat is causing health problems in those cattle and buyers have been pushing prices lower as a result of that added risk and high volumes on offer in many markets. Sales in Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas and surrounding areas are reporting runs which are far larger than average and although those cattle are finding good demand, the volume is pushing prices lower. Such was the case in Oklahoma City, OK, last week where more than 10,000 head were marketed. Feeder steers under 750 lbs. traded steady to $2 lower while those over 750 lbs. were called steady to $2 higher. Feeder heifers sold steady to $1 lower. Meanwhile, in Joplin, MO, the run last week was half the volume of the same date in 2010 and most classes of cattle sold for higher money. Steer calves under 600 lbs. sold $5-8 higher and heifer calves in the same class were $2-6 higher. Steers over 600 lbs. sold steady, although heifers over 600 lbs. were steady to $3 lower. Demand last week was said to be moderate to good on a very light supply. In La Junta, CO, lightweight steers traded $5-7 lower from $150-164 while heavier weights were steady to $2 lower from $135-159. Light heifers were called steady to $3 lower from $130

VIDEOauction

Upcoming Video Sale

Little America, Cheyenne, WY Bidding Line: 307-778-2697

70,000 head consigned Sale Begins @ 8:00 am MT each day (7 am PT)

WATCH & LISTEN TO THE SALE AT: For details, call our office at 530-347-3793 or e-mail us at wvm@wvmcattle.com LOOK FOR THE CATALOG & PICTURES ON OUR WEB SITE:

ww w.wvmcattle.com

The National Auctioneer Association International Championships were recently held in Orlando, FL, and winning the women’s World Championship was Camille Booker, Othello, WA. Her uncle, Butch Booker, Colfax, WA, was the 2008 International Champion.

NORTHERN LIVESTOCK VIDEO AUCTION July 25, 26 & 27, Billings, MT Northern Livestock Video Auction held their 8th Annual Summertime Classic on July 25, 26 & 27 at Billings Livestock Commission in Billings, MT. Over 90,000 Northern cattle sold on a very active market with nationwide bidding on the phones and over the Internet and a large contingency of buyers at the sale. Northern’s next auction is Aug. 22 & 23 with a consignment deadline of Aug. 5. For complete Summertime Classic results go to www.northernlivestockvideo.com. 450 lb. steers, 110 head, Tom & Nikki Lohse, Buffalo, WY, $177.50. 430 lb. heifers, 110 head Tom & Nikki Lohse, Buffalo, WY, $168.00. 370 lb. steers/heifers, 68/68 head, Tom & Nikki Lohse, Buffalo, WY, $195.00. 475 lb. steers, 320 head, Hellyer Ranch, Lander, WY, $170.00. 530 lb. steers, 200 head Gene Jordan Jordan Land & Livestock LLC, Lander, WY, $161.50. 500 lb. heifers, 110 head, Gene Jordan, Jordan Land & Livestock LLC, Lander, WY, $165.00. 525 lb. steers, 320 head, Hopkins Hamilton Ranch, Lander, WY, $170.00. 475 lb. heifers, 110 head, Hopkins Hamilton Ranch, Lander, WY, $162.00. 520 lb. steers, 195 head, Jim & Candy Hardesty, Sheridan, WY, $161.00. 500 lb. heifers, 104 head, Jim & Candy Hardesty, Sheridan, WY, $170.00. 500 lb. steers, 400 head, Gilbert Ranch/Jay Smith, Harlem, MT, $167.00. 510 lb. steers, 110 head, Clint Stimpson, Rapelje, MT, $160.25. 490 lb. heifers, 105 head, Clint Stimpson, Rapelje, MT, $171.00. 535 lb. steers, 550 head, Scott Ross, Ross Ranch & Livestock, Jordan, MT, $162.00. 510 lb. weaned heifers, 300 head, Joe Goggins, J & L Livestock, Billings, MT $175.00. 545 lb. steers, 1,025 head, Centennial Livestock, Billings, MT, $164.10. 525 lb. steers, 170 head, Broken Horn Ranch, Union, OR, $159.00. 500 lb. heifers, 170 head, Broken Horn Ranch, Union, OR, $160.50. 935 lb. steers, 320 head, Phil & Peg Johnson, Volberg, MT, $137.50. 960 lb. steers, 370 head, Jane Glennie The Glennie Ranches, Two Dot, MT, $135.25. 940 lb. steers, 280 head, Jim & Triss Nelson, Grass Range, MT, $130.25. 900 lb. open heifers, 132 head, Ericksen-Sandhills Ranch LLC/ Albert Ericksen, Seneca, NE, $132.00. 570 lb. steers, 300 head, Tom Stevens C Bar J Ranch, Two Dot, MT $151.50. 545 lb. heifers, 200 head, Tom Stevens, C Bar J Ranch, Two Dot, MT, $150.00. 580 lb. steers, 300 head, Ralph & Jay Snider, Harlem, MT, $151.00. 590 lb. steers, 172 head, Frank Fear Cattle Co, Big Piney, WY, $148.00. 560 lb.heifers, 180 head, Frank Fear Cattle Co, Big Piney, WY, $162.00. 560 lb. heifers, 270 head, Thad & Nancy Hereim, Billings, MT, $161.00. 550 lb. steers, 330 head, Apache Ranch, Hyannis, NE, $157.00. 520 lb. heifers, 220 head, Apache Ranch, Hyannis, NE, $170.00. 560 lb. weaned steers/heifers 60/40 head, Marty Vasa, Arthur, NE, $158.00. 600 lb. steers, 230 head, John Scharf, Scharf Farms/John & Barb Scharf, Curtis, NE, $155.50. 560 lb. heifers, 70 head, John Scharf, Scharf Farms/John & Barb Scharf, Curtis, NE, $153.50. 550 lb. steers, 90 head, Allen’s Bar XX Ranch, Melstone MT $160.00. 620 lb. steers, 80 head, Allen’s Bar XX Ranch, Melstone ,MT $153.25. 600 lb. steers, 275 head, Checkerboard Cattle Co. LLC, Martinsdale, MT, $150.00. 575 lb. heifers, 275 head, Checkerboard Cattle Co. LLC, Martinsdale, MT, $159.50. 600 lb. steers, 85 head, Harlan Ranch, Casper, WY, $152.25. 620 lb. steers, 370 head, A. B. Stimpson, Rapelje, MT,$152.85. 600 lb. weaned heifers, 145 head, Dan Levine, Levine Ranch, Great Falls, MT, $159.00. 630 lb. replacement heifers, 100 head, Arnold Green, Meadow Ranch, Absarokee, MT, $153.50. 630 lb. steers, 540 head, McCafferty Ranch, Belt, MT, $144.25. 570 lb. heifers, 425 head, McCafferty Ranch, Belt, MT, $152.50. 560 lb. heifers, 86 head, Simonsen Ranch Inc., Baker, MT, $136.50. 560 lb. steers, 70 head, Kombol Ranch, Ryegate, MT, $148.00. 650 lb. steers, 85 head, Doug & Kerry Gardner, Billings, MT, $150.00. 650 lb. steers, 150 head, Crider Ranch, Minot, ND, $149.00. 675 lb. steers, 90 head, Bowman, ND, Nash Ranch, $150.00. 690 lb. steers, 350 head, Mark & Julie Young, Augusta, MT, $142.00. 625 lb. heifers, 275 head, Mark & Julie Young, Augusta, MT, $148.50. 700 lb. steers, 145 head, Ballard Ranch Inc, Laving, MT, $142.25.

Watch the sale on DISH Network channel 219 or

Feeder cattle The feeder cattle futures market is being shaped by slightly different fundamentals at the present time. The current sales of feeder cattle out of the southern Plains previously mentioned is only going to further tighten

to $145 and heavier heifers were $2-3 lower from $127.50 to $141. On the West Coast in Cottonwood, CA, stocker and feeder cattle traded $2-4 lower than the previous week on a light test of the market. Steers in the 600-650 lb. class sold from $115-126 while heavier 750-800 lb. offerings were $115-124.50. Heifers in the 550-600 lb. category traded between $114 and $127 while those in the 700-750 lb. category brought $112116. — WLJ

AUGUST 1, 2011

Market your cattle with the professionals!

AUGUST 1, 2011

WESTERN LIVESTOCK JOURNAL

CLASSIFIED CORRAL CLASSIFIED INDEX 1 2 3 4 4A 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17

...Employment Wanted ...Help Wanted ...Distributors Wanted ...Custom Services ...Situations Wanted ...Feedlots ...Appraisers ...Auctions ...Auctioneering Schools ...Auctioneers ...Cattle for Sale ...Cattle Wanted ...Semen/Embryos ...Artificial Insemination (A.I.) ...Brands ...Dogs for Sale ...Horses ...Hogs

18 ...Sheep/Goats 19 ...Livestock Supplies 20A ...Pacific Real Estate For Sale 20B ...Intermountain Real Estate For Sale 20C...Mountain Real Estate For Sale 20D...Southwest Real Estate For Sale 20E ...Plains Real Estate For Sale 20F ...Midwest Real Estate For Sale 20G ..Southeast Real Estate For Sale 20H ..Northeast Real Estate For Sale 20I ...Foreign Real Estate For Sale 20J ...Real Estate Tours 21 ...Real Estate Wanted 22 ...Real Estate Rent/Lease/Trade 23 ...Irrigation 24 ...Business Opportunity 25 ...Pasture Available 26 ...Pasture Wanted

27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44

CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING GENERAL INFORMATION

...Hay/Feed/Seed ...Loans ...Insurance ...Financial Assistance ...Fencing/Corrals ...Building Materials ...Equipment For Sale ...Equipment Wanted ...Trucks/Trailers ...Tractors/Implements ...Schools ...Personal ...Lost/Found ...Software ...Miscellaneous ...Ag/Industrial Supplies ...Buffalo ...Mineral Rights

Preston Corman - Classified Manager Classified Corral 7355 E. Orchard Road, #300 • Greenwood Village, CO 80111 1-800-850-2769 • Fax: 303-722-0155 Web sites: www.wlj.net • E-mail: classified@wlj.net DO NOT PHONE IN OR E-MAIL RESPONSES TO BLIND BOX ADS. ADVERTISERS' NAMES AND LOCATIONS ARE CONFIDENTIAL. WRITE, SHOWING THE AD DEPARTMENT NUMBER ON YOUR ENVELOPE AND YOUR REPLY WILL BE PROMPTLY FORWARDED.

Attention Grabbers: $20

New Today Highlighted Background $15

Employment Wanted

RETIRED COUPLE wants security position on ranch in exchange for housing or place for motor home. Bondable and nondrinkers. 559-935-1183 or 559-2401143

Help Wanted

EARN $4,000/MONTH PART-TIME in the livestock or equipment appraisal business. Agricultural background required. Classroom or home study courses available. 800-4887570. www.amagappraisers.com LONG-TERM EMPLOYMENT to help work former ranch of 1,500 acreage of High Valley into recreational facility for private hunting, fishing, with possible cattle, horse, agriculture inclusion. Job includes improvement/ maintenance of: land (fencing, irrigation), personal residence (gardening), work vehicles. Self- motivated, trustworthy, applicants who can communicate well (perhaps computer literate and Spanish) respond to HRllc2011@gmail.com with resume. Compensation commensurate with desire and skills; live on premises.

CLASSIFIED ADS WORK! www.wlj.net

ADVERTISING RATES BY THE WORD: 90 cents per word for each insertion. MINIMUM WORD RATE: 17 words or less, $15.30 one time. MAD RATES: (Mini-Ad Display) $2 more per insertion for your phone number, E-mail and/or Web site, plus first 2 or 3 words in bold print. (Applies to word ads only.) BLIND BOX AD: We will assign your confidential number and forward replies to you. Cost is $10 per 3 issues for mail and handling service. (Includes MAD charge) BOXED DISPLAY ADS: $30 per column inch for each insertion. MINIMAL ART WORK: No additional charge. BLACK AND WHITE PHOTO: Free, LIMIT OF ONE. COLOR PHOTO: $35 EACH DISCOUNTS: 5% for running your ad 3 to 5 times; 10% for 6 times or more; up to 35% for 52 times. SUGGESTION FOR CORRECT WORD COUNT: Be sure to include your name, address and phone number in the count, as well as all initials and abbreviations. Hyphenated words count as two. TEARSHEETS: Available upon request only. Can be faxed or mailed. CONDITIONS EMPLOYMENT WANTED ADS: Must be paid in advance. DEADLINE: Tuesday at 4:30 p.m. MTZ, the week prior to publication date. Newspaper is published on Mondays. LIABILITY: Advertiser is liable for content of advertisement and any claims arising therefrom made against the publication. Publisher is not responsible for errors in phoned-in copy. Publisher reserves the right to refuse any advertising not considered in keeping with the publication standards. OMMISSIONS: Classified advertising is NOT agency commissionable.

CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING ENHANCEMENTS (Additional Charge)

Priced to $ELL Must See! Price Reduction SUMMER PASTURE Southern Idaho. 5,000 acres. Good water, good fences. 800-123-4567

Help Wanted

RANCH CARETAKER Seeking responsible couple with cow/ calf ranch background and experience to provide year-round care of 40-50 cow/calf ranch in northern Colorado foothills. Duties include irrigation of meadows, landscaping care and maintenance of fences, buildings, vehicles and equipment. Year-round housing and salary allow employees to have flexible hours for other jobs or to enjoy semi-retirement. Only qualified people will be considered. All replies are confidential. REPLY TO: E-mail:ncoranch@ yahoo.com. Fax: 303-759-8081. RESTORE RANCH-STYLE LAND IN LAKE COUNTY, CALIFORNIA Long-term employment to help work former ranch of 1,500 acreage of High Valley into recreational facility for private hunting, fishing, with possible cattle, horse, agriculture inclusion. Job includes improvement/ maintenance of: land (fencing, irrigation), personal residence (gardening), work vehicles. Self-motivated, trustworthy, applicants who can communicate well (perhaps computer literate and Spanish) respond to HRllc2011@gmail.com with resume. Compensation commensurate with desire and skills; live on premises.

WWW.WLJ.NET

BAB ad Boxed and Bold: $5

See Photos in the Classified Corral ONLINE!

Help Wanted

SUMMER PASTURE Southern Idaho. 5,000 acres. Good water, good fences. 800-123-4567

Livestock Supplies

One-of-a-kind

Vitalix Inc., a leading manufacturer of livestock supplement tubs, with a new plant in Quincy, WA, is seeking a district sales manager for Washington and western Oregon. Ideal candidates should possess an entrepreneurial spirit, a good work ethic and a background in the beef industry. Excellent compensation and benefits, including health insurance, paidvacation,401(K),andvehicle allowance. Send resume and letter of application to: 2692 CR 57, Alliance, NE 69301 or fax: 308-762-7039 or email: crystald_nelson@hotmail.com

One-of-a-kind

ON SA LE

CALL WLJ•800850-2769 Get more out of your Classified Ads.

REPLICA OF CONCORD MAIL STAGE COACH Built in 1950s, restored, seldom used since restoration. Coach is in excellent condition. Price: $18,500. Daytime: 308-325-1084, Evening: 308-784-3282

A LL A ROUND R ANCH H AND

Experience necessary with registered cattle, record keeping, fencing, and calving outside. AI experience, bull development, and range management a plus. Willingness to do basic mechanics, weld, shoe horses, drive truck, and work with others. Married housing, meat, utilities, 401(K), health insurance, and Internet provided Call 928-2892619 between 6 a.m. – 7 p.m. PST, or email us at info@bartbar.com.

12 GAUGE GUARDRAIL

Hot Dip galvanized. $1.75 per ft. Please call for delivered quote.

423-791-4771/620-546-3507

Be a Part of Our Team

Western Livestock Journal is seeking qualified managing editor candidates. Applicants should be self-starting writers with the ability to work on a deadline with minimal supervision. A strong background in the livestock industry and a passion for the business are required. Must be able to produce high-quality writing in a timely manner. Candidates should have solid writing skills, strong editing skills, and a desire to work as part of a team. The ideal candidate would possess experience in both newspaper and magazine layout, design and other publishing functions.

To be considered for the position, please submit a resume, cover letter and three writing samples to pete@wlj.net. 800-850-2769 • 303-810-8831 GET TOP DOLLAR!!!

Hansen Agri-PLACEMENT Beef Herdsman (MI) ............$40K+ Farm/Ranch Asst. (ND) ........ $45K Ranch Asst. (MT) ................... $21K SERVING AG PERSONNEL FOR 52 YEARS

CALL Eric 308-382-7351

hansenagriplacement.com

PHOTOS

Now InWLJ.net

ONLINE Classifieds

F ALL R OUNDUP H ELP

needed for Arizona high country ranch. Not a management position or absentee owner situation. Need well-rounded experience, own tack, clean driving record, ability to keep good records, and a willingness to do basic mechanics, haul water, shoe horses, run fence, and to learn. Bunkhouse housing, groceries, utilities, 401(K), health insurance, and internet provided. Call 928-289-2619 between 6 a.m. – 7 p.m. PST, or email us at info@bartbar.com.

HORSEHAND/GUIDE/FARRIER AZ WINTER SEASON

Traditional guest ranch. Experienced applicants only. Must have basic farrier skills and strong interest in learning. Includes room/board. (Sorry, no family housing nor outside horses.) 10/10/11-4/30/12. Send cover letter, resume and references to Mary & Charley Miller, office@ elkhornranch.com or 27000 W Elkhorn Ranch Rd, Tucson, AZ 85736. www.elkhornranch.com

Cattle For Sale

QUALITY STOCKER & FEEDER cattle. 100% black or whatever fits your needs. Call Fred Marley at 812852-4061. PUREBRED GELBVIEH BULLS Exceptional heifers, excellent quality, gentle. Trucking available. Markes Family Farms, Waukomis, OK. 580-554-2307, www.markesfamily farms.com.

150 Bulls For Sale Gardiner Genetics

2B Bar A Angus

Cattle For Sale

BOWMAN MFG., INC "QUALITY CATTLE EQUIPMENT"

BORROW A BULL Trich & Semen Tested Ready to go. Toll Free:

Eric Bowman Tom Bowman 111 South K St. 4355 East Hwy 50 Garden City, KS 67846 Fremont, NE 68025 1-800-426-9626 Sales: 1-888-338-9208 402-721-7604 Office: 620-275-9208 402-720-0076 Mobile: 620-271-1288 402-721-5616 Fax: 620-275-4090 www.bowmanenterprisesnet.com

877-665-0272

Real Estate For Sale

SUBSCRIBE ONLINE

Hereford, Texas

WWW.WLJ.NET

806-344-7444 877-2BAR-ANG www.2barangus.com

CATTLE AND GRAZING LEASE - SW CO.

CLASSIFIED ADS WORK!

See your ad on the Internet: www.wlj.net

Excellent performing cattle and great producing, well-located lease. 970-209-1824

Pacific

20A

Real Estate For Sale

Pacific

20A

CATTLE/HUNTING RANCH, COLUSA COUNTY 2,600 acres. 2,000± deeded. 150 cows year-round or 250 for the season. Wells, ponds, springs, and lake. 135 acres in hay, more could be added. House, shop, barn. Miles of new fencing. Great hunting! $3,200,000. Owner will carry. 530405-6589 FOR SALE: MERCED / MARIPOSA CO. PASTURE Hornitos area. 2,922 acres and 1,045 acres. Merrill, www.jamesmerrill realestate.com 559-661-6363

Ask about low-cost

Internet links from our Web site to yours!

1-800-850-2769

1,360 ACRES, near Ravendale, California. Develop this property into a hay ranch. Excellent area for irrigation wells. Two older homes plus outbuildings. Priced at $600,000, reduced to $550,000. 530-233-1993 Phone 530-233-5193 Fax 335 N Main Street • PO Box 1767 • Alturas, CA 96101

w w w.triadproperties.net

WESTERN LIVESTOCK JOURNAL

Real Estate For Sale

Pacific

Real Estate For Sale

20A

Pacific

20A

SHERLOCK RANGE: 4,850 deeded acres of desert range, mostly capable of growing crested wheat or similar grass with a 3,652 AUM BLM grazing allotment. Tired of hauling water? This allotment has adequate water even in dry years. Priced at just $212 per acre and $50 per AUM. $1,200,000 BULL PRAIRIE: A rare and unique opportunity in real estate. 640 acres of mountain meadow, fringed with pine trees and aspen, surrounded by U S national forest. Hunting and recreation opportunities are fabulous. Summers up to 350 pair. Owner will consider terms. $1,150,000

Burt Swingle, Principal Broker Office: 541-947-4151 Cell: 541-219-0764

w w w.bu r t swi ngle.com

Real Estate For Sale

AUGUST 1, 2011

Real Estate For Sale

Intermountain 20B

Real Estate For Sale

20A

PACIFIC NORTHWEST FEEDLOT FOR SALE

LARGE, BEAUTIFUL RANCH FOR SALE Encompasses over 740,000 acres. Located in White Pine, Lincoln, and Nye counties in Nevada. Runs both cattle and sheep. Exciting recreation potential. Call 1-800-982-9617, www.bdestates.com, email blue diam@mwpower.net.

CLASSIFIED ADS WORK!

Pacific

Real Estate For Sale

20A

Pacific

_ Approved Nutrient Plan 35,000 Head _Remote location Zoned Ag. _ Ample water for livestock and cooling. _Sale includes Potato Waste Contracts from nearby Processors _Two Processing Plants nearby _Close to ocean ports for beef export _ Well maintained

Ag Com

Eric Weinheimer

Serving all your agricultural Real Estate needs! Real Estate ewagrealestate@hotmail.com

CALL (509) 845-4389

FIVE MILE RANCH Historic central Nevada Ranch

Year-round cow-calf-yearling range operation 5,000 deeded acres, 13,000 acre feet irrigation 39 stockwater rights • BLM and US Forest Service grazing permits on 566,000 acres for 1,550 Animal Units (1,150 mother cows) Turn-key with 1,000 cattle, $6,700,000 Without cattle, $6,000,000

NEVADA RANCH SERVICE

Get your CLASSIFIED ADS working NOW!

Al Steninger, broker 990 Fifth Street, Elko, Nevada 89801 Call 775-738-4100, Fax 775-753-7900 wrsnrs@frontiernet.net

Real Estate For Sale

Mountain

When you place an ad at wlj.net, it will be online in the time it takes to process a credit card and then in the next available print issue.

20C

Get your CLASSIFIED ADS working NOW!

Flo o d-Ir r ig at e d 145-Acr e R anch

Ir r ig at e d 52-Acr e R anch Perfect for a first time rancher or tree farm. Two homes, shop, 20-hp ag well. Fully fenced. Located close to town in Marysville, CA Asking price: $675,000. Contact: Don Greve.

W h at a Gr e at De al!! 200-acre hay and cattle ranch, located 11 miles west of Alturas. 4-Bedroom, 2-Bath 1,450-sq-ft. home. 53' X 80' pole barn 80 acres on pivot with Pitt River Water Rights. Excellent duck and goose hunting. Asking price: $395,000. Contact: Don Greve.

127-Acr e Ir r ig at e d Pa s t u r e R anch O rl and, CA Hard-to-find Sacramento Valley irrigated pasture ranch with 1,127-sq.-ft. ranch house, barn, corrals, and other improvements. Cheap district water. Property is divided into separate fields for rotational grazing. The ranch is located just minutes away from Interstate 5. Asking price: $825,000. Call Mark or Ryan Nelson.

Alturas Irrigated Ranch with Beautiful Home 291 acres (160 irrigated) with pivot and fl ood irrigation. Fantastic 3,500-sq.-ft. ranch house. Located just outside of town. One-of-a-kind hay/cattle ranch, perfect purebred outfi t. Great facilities with exceptional improvements. Call for price. Call Ryan Nelson.

B e aut i ful H ay/Cat tle R anch in Kl amath Falls, OR 565-acre hay ranch. Planted into alfalfa, alfalfa/orchard mix and some straight grass hay. Has ‘A’ water rights in Klamath Irrigation District. Roughly 100 acres irrigated pasture. Offered at $1,250,000 or $2,212 per acre. Contact Ryan or Mark Nelson.

Mark Nelson Ryan Nelson 916-849-5558 916-804-6861 Don Greve 530-763-2019 • 209-642-1900 Office 209-334-3045

www.hesseltinerealty.com

20C

Contact Neil Glennie 406-473-2381 or 406-855-9186 Kathy Robbins 406-366-4399 w w w.ucshoberealt y.com Lewistown, MT • 406-538-5125

Use REALTIME CLASSIFIEDS and see results.

Magnificent views Permanent reservoirs and springs. This property also features a nice 3,400-sq.-ft. home, hay barn, horse barn, sorting pens and shop! Asking price..$800,000.00 Contact: Don Greve

Mountain

IRENE SNOWY MOUNTAIN R ANCH

160-Acr e Yub a C o un t y Cat tle R anch

Real Estate For Sale

25 miles N. of Ryegate, MT. 7,871± acres deeded, 640 acre State land lease. Forest service permit for 41 pairs. 3,000-sq.-ft. new home, horse barn, heated dog kennels, restored barn and corrals, 40 miles of new fence, 6 ponds & Swimming Woman Creek flows through it. Includes the restored homesteader town of Irene, MT. • Entire ranch offered at $5,300,000 – can be separated.

So why wait?

Located d iin SSouth h SSutter C County jjust 30 minutes i ffrom Yuba City or Sacramento. Great tree ground, Class 2 and better soils, 2 ag wells. Possible owner financing to qualified buyers! Contact: Don Greve.

Intermountain 20B

THE LOST RIVER RANCH•POE VALLEY, OREGON: A highly diversified commercial cattle and farming operation on the Lost River including 3,577 deeded acres only 15 miles from Klamath Falls. 2,500 acres irrigated producing pasture, hay, grain, and potato crops. Outstanding ranch improvements, excellent maintenance. $5,950,000

OFFERING QUALITY INVESTMENTS IN LAND

541-548-9600

P.O. Box 31 • Powell Butte, OR 97753

w w w.steveturnerranches.com Email: info@steveturnerranches.com

Porterville, CA, area cattle & horse ranch 241.65± acres with a secluded custom-built home.

Includes a full set of livestock corrals, hay barn, horse barn and shop. There is more than enough domestic and livestock water provided by 4 wells. Located within a few minute’s drive from town in Tulare County, CA, this is a great livestock headquarters setup. $1,300,000

Contact Roy Pennebaker 559-302-1906 and Matt McEwen 559-302-1905

PEARSON REALTY AGRICULTURAL PROPERTIES A Tradition in Trust Since 1919

Improve Your Herd Genetics ... Check out the WLJ Bull Pen Call Preston for a great deal on a BULL PEN ad!

800-850-2769 PONDEROSA

4,885 Deeded Acres — La Grande, Oregon —Cut Over & Growing Timber — Meadows — Older Hunting Lodge with Power — Four Landowner Hunting Tags Only Minutes from Downtown La Grande

Talk about a lifestyle, $3,700,000

AgriLands Real Estate Vale, OR 97918 Rae Anderson• 208 761 9553 Agrilandsrealestate.com

When you place an ad at wlj.net, it will be online in the time it takes to process a credit card and then in the next available print issue.

So why wait? Use REALTIME CLASSIFIEDS and see results. Real Estate For Sale

Southwest

20D

FIND YOUR DREAM RANCH Let me help you find your dream ranch in eastern Oklahoma! A Rancher’s Paradise! Call Traci Kunkel at Hometown Real Estate. 1-918-5334899 or tntkunkel@yahoo.com 500 ACRES 1 hr. east of Dallas, TX. Frontage on 2 county roads. Utilities. Deer, duck & dove hunting. 1 40’ X 60’ metal barn & 1 hay shed, working pens and 10 stock ponds. $975,000. For more info., call 903-662-0919 or go to www. mossranches.com.

HOBE HO BEAUCTION & REALTY RIDGWAY, CO ADJOINS BLM LAND

Incredible 360° views on 250+ private acres. 50± acres irrigated pasture with cascading ponds,perfect for horses/cattle. Close proximity to airport, worldclass hunting, fishing, hiking, skiing. Spectacular home: every amenity, high-tech, highest quality finishes, extensive stone patios. Heated shop, 1880s barn and equipment/storage building.

CALL: 970-626-4463, Ext. 2 Real Estate For Sale

Southwest

20D

Ask about low-cost

Internet links from our Web site to yours!

1-800-850-2769

WORKING RANCHES ARE OUR BUSINESS FEATURE OKLAHOMA PROPERTIES: 1,360 acres Creek County • 160 acres Okfuskee County 1,342 acres Okfuskee County

CROSS TIMBERS LAND, L.L.C. PAWHUSKA, OK

918-287-1996

SALES · EVALUATION · CONSULTATION

www.crosstimbersland.com CATTLE RANCH FOR SALE Southeastern New Mexico cattle ranch located approximately 35 miles north of Roswell, NM, along and on both sides of U.S. Highway 285. 20,000 total acres to included 12,025 deeded acres. Grazing capacity estimated to be approximately 400 animal units yearlong. Livestock water is provided by three wells and a buried pipeline system. Additional secondary water is provided by seasonal water holes along two forks of Five Mile Draw and numerous earthen tanks. No residence being offered, but electricity is available across the ranch property to provide for a choice of home sites. Adequate livestock working facilities to include shipping pens with scales. The ranch is reasonably priced at $200.00 per deeded acre with over 7,000 lease acres included. Seller financing available to a qualified buyer. Nothing comparable for the price currently being offered. Call for an appointment.

Scott McNally, Qualifying Broker Bar M Real Estate, Roswell, NM

575-622-5867 • www.ranchesnm.com

SUBSCRIBE ONLINE WWW.WLJ.NET

AUGUST 1, 2011

Real Estate Wanted

Equipment For Sale

WESTERN LIVESTOCK JOURNAL

WANT LARGE, REMOTE CATTLE RANCH. Can be mostly BLM land. Poor/no improvements OK, CHEAP $1,000,000 max. Call Buck 303-2373736.

SELL/BUY NEW HOLLAND BALE WAGONS: 1089, 1069, 1037, 1033, self-propelled and pull-type models. Finance, trade, deliver. 208-8802889, www.balewagon.com.

WANT TO BUY OR LEASE a 500± head year-round ranch. Will consider granting life estate on dwelling to seller. Please email all repsonses to preston@wlj.net Attn: BOX 870.

Kaddatz Auctioneering & Farm Equipment Sales

Irrigation

WATER 52 acre ft. groundwater rights. Escalante Drainage area, Utah. All or part.

801-355-1883

NEED EXTRA INCOME?

Advertise a Hunting/Fishing Lease.

Call Preston

800-850-2769 Pasture Available

HAVE PASTURE AND ROOM to winter up to 300 head. Small live stream, excellent protection. 605381-9979.

New and used tractors, equipment, parts & salvage yard.

Hay/Feed/Seed 27 OAT HAY - LARGE ROUND BALE 900 lbs., excellent hay. $42 per bale. 530-517-0770 ALFALFA HAY FOR SALE $110/ton south of Whitehall, MT. 1,400 lbs. Large rounds 80 ton available. 406-422-8283

Find It On

WLJ.net

Classifieds Loans

Banks and Loans Centers saying NO? Consolidation is the key. We offer all kinds of loans from Personal Loans, Mortgages, and other Financial Services. Available up to $500,000. Low interest.

CALL TOLL FREE: 1-877-747-9402

Building Materials

QUALITY OIL-FIELD PIPE all sizes, 2-3/8” semi-loads 90 cents/ft. Ship nationwide. FOB Ft. Lupton, CO. Call 303-888-0819.

GET

THOROUGH PRACTICAL TRAINING IN:

Pregnancy testing—A.I. herd health—calf delivery and care. Many additional subjects.

CATTLEMEN

Our business is to help you improve your business.

254-582-3000

www.kaddatzequipment.com

Learn more by working with live animals under expert supervision. Write or call today for free school catalog.

wlj.net

GRAHAM SCHOOL, INC.

Your weekly newspaper online

If you’re a current subscriber, log on with your customer number from your mailing label as your user name and wlj123 as your password.

ROOF COATINGS TANK COATINGS URETHANE WINDMILL PARTS Available for METAL, composition shingle or tar roofs. Long lasting and easy to apply. Brush or roll on this thick white coating. Call for our free catalog. We also manufacture tank coatings and urethane windmill parts.

VIRDEN PERMA-BILT CO.

806-352-2761

www.virdenproducts.com FOR SALE 551 SHARES in southeast Idaho. May 25th to October 15th. 208-6480906.

Schools

Equipment Wanted

WANTED: NEW HOLLAND BALEWAGONS, self-propelled and pull types. Farmhand Accumulators and forks. Roeder Implement, Seneca, KS. 785-336-6103

Dept. WLJ • 641 W. Hwy 31 Garnett, KS 66032

785-448-3119 Fax: 785-448-3110 www.grahamschool.com Over 100 years of continuous service

CLASSIFIED ADS WORK!

Land Monitoring Schools Land EKG

Charley Orchard August 25 & 26, 2011 Colorado Springs August 30 & 31, 2011 Alamosa

(719) 683-7960 Miscellaneous 41 WANT TO PURCHASE minerals and other oil/gas interests. Send details to: P.O. Box 13557, Denver, CO 80201.

CLASSIFIED

RESULTS are spelled

What is driving the price of commodities? Farmers have long been willing to produce for the market, and farm programs over the past 20-plus years have moved agriculture from a managed supply to a market-oriented pricing system. But when you produce for the market, you don’t always know who is going to come to buy. While the American consumers have been the primary force, they are being supplanted by Chinese consumers. And while American farmers have worked long hours to build markets for their products, the ethanol success story has also become a driving force beyond consumers and livestock. So the adage, “Be careful what you ask for, you may get it,” can certainly be applied to U.S. agriculture, and with some surprising results. At the request of the Farm Foundation, Purdue economists Wally Tyner, Phil Abbot, and Chris Hurt took up the challenge of defining what is driving U.S. food prices in 2011. Their analysis of identifying what is pushing food prices brought several dynamics to the forefront. The market has seen two major players have a larger impact than any other, and both are familiar to farmers. China’s demand for corn, as well as soybeans, has shifted from rumor to fact, due to its growing and hungry population which has the money to spend on better food. The other is ethanol, which shifted from a background consumer of corn to front and center when Congress approved the biofuels mandate. The economists, in economist-speak, say another dynamic is the fact that markets are more inelastic than they used to be, and have become more volatile when such consumers as China

WLJ

Yo r unsur ad F on o REE u w e ______________________________________________________________ bsiter

Order your classified ad

______________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________ Name: _____________________________________________________________________________ Address: ___________________________________________________________________________ City: _________________________________ State: _____________________ Zip: ____________ Phone #: _______________________________ Fax #: _________________________________________ E-mail: __________________________________________________________________________________

❏NEW ADVERTISER ❏WORD AD ❏TEARSHEET ❏MAD AD (See under rates) ❏DISPLAY Run this ad _________time(s) under_________________ classification

CARD NUMBER

❏ Visa ❏ Mastercard ❏ Discover ❏ American

EXPIRATION NAME AS PRINTED ON CARD

SIGNATURE Express RATES: WORD AD: 90¢ per word (17 word minimum - $15.30) Area code & phone number count as one word. MAD (Mini Ad Display): Only $2 additional per issue for bold headline, phone number, E-mail and website address. BAB (Mini Ad Display): Only $5 additional per issue for the entire ad in bold copy and a box around it. DISPLAY AD: $30 per column inch (1 inch minimum) COLOR HIGHLIGHT: $15 per per ad. Can be used on BAB ad or DISPLAY AD. BLIND BOX: Add $10 per 3 issues handling charge (includes MAD charge) PHOTOS: FREE for black and white photos. $35 each for color photos. ATTENTION GRABBERS: $15 for a color header above the ad. If you would like color, photos and other enhancements, please call Preston to order! Employment Wanted ads must be paid in advance: check, money order or charge card DISCOUNTS: 5% off 3 to 5 insertions; 10% off 6 to 11 insertions. Contract rates available.

Make check or money order payable to: Western Livestock Journal MAIL OR FAX THIS FORM TO: WESTERN LIVESTOCK JOURNAL • CLASSIFIED CORRAL 7355 E. ORCHARD ROAD, #300, GREENWOOD VILLAGE, CO 80111 • FAX TO: 303-722-0155

and biofuel come to the market and make headlines. And the inelasticity is worsened because all of the forces are having a bigger impact on the market than they used to have. A third dynamic is increasing weather events that have adversely affected yield and the impact they have had on stocks, which have been slowly declining. Subsequently, the low stocks-touse ratios that are becoming prominent in market reports are having a greater impact on market prices. China shows up in another way, which is how it manages its supplies of grains and its difficulty addressing internal issues of self sufficiency. While China imports most of its soybean needs, its other food needs are largely disconnected from world markets. The fifth factor is the collection of other macroeconomic factors that push and pull on the market, not the least is the exchange rate and the dollar’s value compared to other world currencies, which fluctuates daily. With a weak dollar, and a volatile relationship with other currencies from one day to the next, it will either throw water or gas on a fire that is the U.S. commodity market. The Purdue economists also look at the reasons which have brought these drivers to the forefront. Among those are: The ethanol mandate and other biofuels policies that have resulted in a corn demand that has not responded to market pricing. The nation’s fuel supply is supposed to have ethanol, and that demand must be met regardless of the cost of making it. But because of the fact that corn-based ethanol has reached its maximum content level in motor fuel, there should be very little additional force that it puts on the market. Chinese income growth bolstered its demand for food but, also, China has been building its own grain stocks, which have fostered more purchases than necessary. Depending on the continuation of that stocks policy, China’s rate of food purchase may slow when the country decides its stocks are at sufficient levels. Depending on demand for

certain crops, land is reallocated for their production. If China and ethanol refiners want more corn, then land will be allocated for corn instead of other crops which may provide a lesser profit potential. The Purdue economists say in 2005, it took 16 million acres to supply China and ethanol, but in 2010, it took 46.5 million acres to do the same. Due to the inelastic market, and the trouble it has responding to the increased demand, other factors have aggravated the situation, including trade policy, greater demand for livestock feeds, and tight food stocks, such as livestock producers having to pay more for feed. The latter has resulted in production cutbacks. The Purdue economists say the current year may not allow a return to periods of robust stocks because of the weather, and global stocks will remain tight with corresponding higher prices. However, they cannot identify whether the market is shifting upward or whether we are in a boom or bust cycle, which cannot be determined until other economic factors are clearer. They do speculate that removal of the ethanol subsidy program would have more impact on the refiner and the blender than on the farmer growing corn, and lower oil prices would have a significant impact on the ethanol economy. They also suggest that shifting U.S. farm policy from one that reduces supply to stimulating supply would result in benefits that would not happen if demand were not subsidized by either taxpayer funds or policy mandates. Significant drivers in the current U.S. food economy have been China and biofuels, but because the market has been unable to easily respond to those major consumers, other forces have pushed and pulled on commodity prices more than would have been expected, such as weather and the exchange rate. Food and feed supply and price pressures might be relieved with changes in agricultural policy that remove subsides for using commodities and replacing them with policies that promote more production. — WLJ

USDA to study feedlot health management Beginning in August, beef feedlot operators in Colorado will be contacted by representatives of USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) to provide information for the 2011 USDA Feedlots Study. The data gathered by NASS will be used by USDA’s National Animal Health Monitoring System to provide an indepth look at health management practices on beef feedlots in the U.S. “Many changes have occurred on U.S. feedlots since 1999, the last time these data were collected,” said Bill Meyer, director of the NASS Colorado Field Office. “By participating in the current study, producers will help their entire industry by accurately portraying the beef feedlot industry and ensuring that only the most up-to-date and accurate information is readily avail-

able to the public.” The study results will help researchers identify the most prevalent health problems and help identify new or updated solutions. The study will also gauge the respondent’s awareness and use of various biosecurity practices, as well as changes in feedlot management practices. To help producers provide all of the necessary information, trained NASS interviewers will personally visit feedlot participants to complete the survey. As with all NASS surveys, all individual responses are kept strictly confidential and used only in combination with other responses to report regional and U.S. estimates. All data will be published only in aggregate form, ensuring that no individual operation or producer can be identified. — WLJ

WESTERN LIVESTOCK JOURNAL

AUGUST 1, 2011

New book chronicles the life of WD Farr Cattle numbers continue to fall —"WD Farr: Cowboy in the Boardroom" “Always a better way” was WD Farr’s motto. As a Colorado rancher, banker, cattle feeder, and expert in irrigation, Farr (1910–2007) had a unique talent for building consensus and instigating change in an industry known for its conservatism. With his persistent optimism and gregarious personality, Farr’s influence extended from next-door neighbors and business colleagues to U.S. presidents and foreign dignitaries. In this biography, Daniel Tyler chronicles Farr’s singular life and career. At the same time, he tells a broader story of sweeping changes in agricultural production and irrigated agriculture in Colorado and across the West during the twentieth century. WD was a third-generation descendant of western farming pioneers who specialized in sheep feeding. While learning all he could from his father and grandfather, WD developed a new vision: to make cattle profitable. He sought out experienced livestock experts to help him devise ways to produce beef year-round. When World War II ended, and the troops came home tired of wartime mutton, the beef industry

took off. With his new innovations in place, WD was ready. Tyler also reveals WD’s influence in securing water supplies for farmers and ranchers and in establishing water conservation policies. Early in his career, WD helped sell the Colorado–Big Thompson Project to skeptical, debt-ridden farmers. In 1955, he became a board member for the Northern Colorado Water Conservancy District, a post he held for 40 years. Tyler bases his portrait of WD Farr on extensive archival research and dozens of interviews with people who knew him personally or by reputation. In the end, Tyler shows that although not everybody agreed, or will agree, with Farr’s stands on particular issues, this “cowboy in the boardroom” led by his own example. By embracing change and seeking consensus rather than forcing his will on others, his greatest legacy—as revealed in this book— may be the model of leadership he provided. Daniel Tyler is Professor Emeritus of History at Colorado State University, Fort Collins, and the author of “Silver Fox of the Rockies: Delphus E. Carpenter,” and “Western Water Compacts.” — WLJ

summer stockers from the Osage country that are typically marketed this time of year,” he noted.

2011 were reportedly down slightly from last year, totaling 25.8 million head. Calves under 500 pounds were reportedly down 1 percent at 27.2 million head. Peel said that some of

Although the heavy volumes of feeder cattle and cows being marketed right now have placed some downward pressure on prices, it is expected that the early marketing and the already tight supply picture will serve to support prices later this year. NASS estimated that this year’s calf crop will be down 1 percent from last year at 35.5 million head. Calves born during the first half of

those calves which are just now large enough for marketing are being shipped in high volumes, far earlier in the year than is normal. “Most likely we are seeing a second wave of cow liquidation made up of cows with spring-born calves that are just now big enough to early wean and sell,” he noted. “We are receiving many anecdotal stories from auctions, both large and small, of excessive numbers of

Inventory (from page 1)

TAHC lifts Olmal Temporary Preventative Quarantine Area in Starr and Hidalgo counties The Texas Animal Health Commission (TAHC) has released all remaining portions of Starr and Hidalgo counties from the temporary preventative quarantine zone, effective July 22. The Olmal Temporary Preventative Quarantine Area, consisting of 152,716 acres (239 square miles), was established on July 2, 2009, after a cluster of infested premises was identified in an area north of Sullivan City on the border of Starr and Hidalgo counties. Prior to an official blanket being placed, a five-mile area, and then a 10-mile surveillance/movement control area, had been established around the first identified infestations. Eventually, a cluster of 22 infested premises was identified. On May 20, 2011, blanket restric-

tions were officially released from a western section of the blanket consisting of 59,100 acres after all release requirements had been met. Cattle fever ticks are capable of carrying and transmitting ‘babesia,’ a blood parasite deadly to cattle. The fever ticks are common in Mexico, but are not normally found in Texas. “The TAHC has now determined that all areas currently within the quarantine zone have met the requirements for release and therefore the remaining Temporary Preventative Quarantine Area may be released. The release of the quarantine zone rescinds all movement restrictions placed on the livestock and wildlife within the Temporary Preven-

SALEcalendar ALL BREEDS

Nov. 27 – Northwest Breeders, All Breed Female Sale, Hermiston, OR Nov. 30 – Utah Cattlemen’s Classic All Breed Bull Sale, Salt Lake City, UT

ANGUS Aug. 13 – Spruce Mountain Ranch, Production Sale, Larkspur, CO Aug. 20 – Teixeira Cattle Co., Bull & Female Sale, Pismo Beach, CA Sept. 2 – Byrd Cattle Company, Bull & Female Sale, Red Bluff, CA Sept. 5 – Graham Angus Dispersion, Coyle, OK Sept. 11 – Oak Ridge Angus Farms, Production Sale, Calistoga, CA Sept. 12 – Mid Valley Bull Sale, Cattlemen’s Livestock Market, Galt, CA Oct. 8 – California Angus & Charolais Breeders, Bull Sale, Turlock, CA Oct. 12-13 – Four Cross Angus, Dispersion Sale, Soup Lake, WA Oct. 16 – California Bullfest, Galt, CA Oct. 22 – 44 Farms, Bull Sale, Cameron, TX Oct. 25 – Strang Hereford & Angus, Production Sale, Meeker, CO Oct. 26 – Fink Beef Genetics, Bull Sale, Randolph, KS Oct 27- 29 – Summitcrest Angus, Dispersion, Grand Island, NE Oct. 30 – Pheasant Trek Ranch, Red Carpet Event, Wilton, CA Nov. 2 – Sitz Angus Ranch, Commercial Bred, Female Sale; Dillon, MT Nov. 5 – Tybar Angus, Production Sale, Carbondale, CO Nov. 7 – Sandpoint Cattle Co., Female Sale, Lodgepole, NE Nov. 12 – Rocky Mountain Angus Bull & Female Sale, Ogden, UT Nov. 19 – Sydenstricker Genetics, Production Sale, Mexico, MO Nov. 19 – Bear Mt. Angus, Female Sale, Palisade NE

BEEFMASTER Sept. 10 – Lasater Ranches, Bull Sale, Mathison, CO

CHAROLAIS Sept. 2 – Byrd Cattle Company, Bull

tative Quarantine Area,” Dr. Dee Ellis, state veterinarian, said. “This shows that the collaborative efforts between the USDA-Veterinary Services Tick Force, TAHC, the Texas cattle industry and local land owners are working successfully,” said Ellis. “TAHC and USDA will continue to work with local land owners to maintain effective surveillance efforts to help ensure this pest does not reoccur in the area.” — WLJ

feeder cattle and cows being marketed. Livestock haulers are booked and it is difficult to arrange shipping at this time.” The report, while mostly in line with pre-report expectations, provides some insight for the depth of the inventory hole the industry is faced with and it may not fully reflect the situation in the country. Peel said many of the cows being sold in the southern tier are not being shipped to other herds outside the area. “Beef cow slaughter in Federal Slaughter Region 6, which overlays the drought area, is 16 percent higher for the year to date compared to last year,” he said. “In the most recent two weeks of data, beef cow slaughter in Region 6 is up 35 percent compared to the same period last year. Total U.S. beef cow slaughter for the year to date is down 2.7 percent but the gap is closing due to large slaughter totals in the drought area. For most weeks of the year, the national total beef cow slaughter has been down compared to last year. However, in the last four weeks of slaughter data, the week-to-week totals for beef cow slaughter have exceeded year ago levels.” Peel said that the NASS report likely does not take the accelerated liquidation into consideration. As a result, the total decline in cow numbers during 2011 won’t be fully apparent until the Jan. 1, 2012, annual inventory report. — John Robinson, WLJ Editor

THE RANCH HORSE

For Western Livestock Journal readers, a good horse is a tool of the trade. A good horse thinks the same way you do and can anticipate what that cow or calf is going to do. It’s poetry in motion. When It comes to good ranch horses, WLJ readers represent the market you’re looking for. No glitz, no glamour, just good, sound working horses.

& Female Sale, Red Bluff, CA Oct. 8 – California Angus & Charolais Breeders, Bull Sale, Turlock, CA Oct. 26 – Fink Beef Genetics, Bull Sale, Randolph, KS

HEREFORD Sept. 23 – Baker Herefords, Complete Dispersion, Rapid City, SD Sept. 25 – Hoffman & Topp Herefords, Female Production Sale, Thedford, NE Oct. 16 – California Bullfest, Galt, CA Oct. 17 - Berry Herefords, Production Sale, Cheyenne, WY Oct. 25 – Strang Hereford & Angus, Production Sale, Meeker, CO

RED ANGUS Oct. 29 – Pieper Red Angus, Production Sale, Rushville, NE

COMMERCIAL Aug. 3-4 – Cattle Country Video Market Sale, Civic Center, Gering, NE Aug. 10-12 – Western Video Market Sale, Little America Hotel, Cheyenne, WY Aug. 15-19 – Superior Livestock Auction, Big Horn Classic, Sheridan, WY Sep. 1 – Cattle Country Video Market Sale, Haythorn Ranch, Arthur, NE Sep. 7-9 – Superior Livestock Auction, Labor Day XXXII, Denver, CO Sep. 12-13 – Western Video Market Sale, Haythorn Ranch, Ogallala, NE Nov. 2 – Sitz Angus Ranch, Commercial Bred Female Sale; Dillon, MT

HORSE Aug. 21 – Willow Creek Quarter Horse, Production Sale, Bloomfield, NE Aug. 27 – Hutchings Cattle Co., Horse Sale, Fallon, NV Sept. 9 – Jamison Ranch, Quarter Horse Production Sale, Quinter, KS Sept. 10 – Hunt’s Open Box Rafter Ranch, Quarter Horse Production Sale, Rapid City, SD

PLANNING

HORSE

SALE?

Reach the real cow horse market with the Western Livestock Journal. ♦ 70.7% of WLJ readers maintain a remuda of 16.3 head and breed an average of 5.2 mares.* If you want to reach the real cow horse market, reach for WLJ and we’ll reach the real cowboys because they read the Western Livestock Journal. * WLJ Reader Survey 2011

For advertising or ring service information, contact our team:

Jerry York

72 N. Pit Lane Nampa, ID 83687 208-863-1172 jerryyorkwlj@gmail.com California, Oregon, Washington, Idaho, Nevada, Utah

Jim Gies

19381 County Rd. 74 Eaton, CO 80615 970-454-3836 (c) 970-590-0500 Colorado, Southern Wyoming, North Dakota, South Dakota, Nebraska, Kansas, Oklahoma

Jerry Gliko

433 Belt Creek Rd. Belt, MT 59412 406-277-3001 (c) 406-860-3181 Montana, Northern Wyoming, Eastern Idaho, North Dakota

Pete Crow

Publisher 7355 E. Orchard Road, #300 Greenwood Village, CO 80111 303-722-7600 Fax 303-722-0155 pete@wlj.net

1-800-850-2769 • www.wlj.net • advertising@wlj.net

AUGUST 1, 2011

WESTERN LIVESTOCK JOURNAL

Red Angus juniors experience Round-Up Junior Red Angus Association of America (JRA) members and two Canadian representatives gathered in the heart of the nation for the 19th annual Junior Round-Up June 2126. The JRA Round-Up is an opportunity for Red Angus juniors to build public speaking and leadership skills, increase breed and industry knowledge, and network with other juniors from across the nation. The youth—who hailed from 14 states and Canada—kicked off the “Follow the Red Angus Road to Kansas and Missouri” Round-Up in Kansas City, MO, on Tuesday, June 21 with ice breakers and teambuilding exercises lead by Andrew Strasburg, Kansas State FFA president and Kansas State University (KSU) student. They enjoyed a Kansas City Royals baseball game that evening. For the next five days, the Red Angus juniors traveled across Missouri and Kansas touring ranches, a bull test facility, a regional livestock market, feedlots and KSU. The Red Angus juniors also competed in national contests and participated in their annual business and committee meetings and officer elections. “We had an outstanding turnout this year with over 50 juniors and adult chaperones,” said Dawn Bernhard, Red Angus Association of America (RAAA) junior programs coordinator. “The kids come intending to have fun with other Red Angus youth but leave with communication and beef industry life skills as well as a network of friends that they will keep throughout their lives.” Host ranches and enterprises interacted with the Round-Up group in viewing cattle, Red Angus and beef industry education, and JRA contests. Wednesday, June 22 • Jack and Karen Lindstrom of JK Cattle and Kurt and Paula Schwarz of Three Fires Cattle Co., both of LaCygre, KS, welcomed juniors with hayrack pasture tours and weight-guessing contests. Paula Schwarz discussed her job as senior food specialist for Applebee’s restaurants and Cathy Miller of Mountain City Meats explained her position as coordinator between retail restaurants and the pack-

ing industry. Jason Hightower, neighbor, partner and banker to Schwarzes, discussed pasture management, ag finances and crossbreeding with Red Angus. The juniors competed in the Stockman’s Quiz and Team Sales Contest. • Kent Abele of Green Springs Bull Test, Nevada, MO, spoke to tour attendees about the GrowSafe system their operation uses to monitor residual feed intake. He explained how Green Springs Bull Test works with universities and breed associations to improve expected progeny differences through data sharing and experimentation. • At Rush Red Angus, Jasper, MO, Rocky, Karen, Tyler and Shelby Rush welcomed the Round-Up group with pasture tours, judging contests and a tour of their donor cows and resulting offspring. The day concluded with a dance and beef brisket meal. Tyler is a former JRA board member and Shelby was a participant in this year’s Round-Up. Thursday, June 23 • The first stop of the morning was Joplin Regional Stockyards near Cathage, MO. Mark Harmon, field representative, addressed juniors about their day-to-day operations and life skills of being a good employee. Joplin Regional Stockyards markets approximately 425,000 head of cattle annually and they have designed a co-mingling process that sorts cattle by color, size and weight into groups utilizing a specifically designed chute system that uses jets of air to move cattle through the system. • RAAA President Joe Mushrush and his wife, Connie, welcomed the JRA Round-Up group to Mushrush Red Angus. In addition to pasture and feedlot tours, Mushrushes explained grazing management of tall grass prairie and how they incorporate stocker cattle to best utilize their grazing environment. Their son, Daniel, a former JRA board member, served as the emcee for the Quiz Bowl. Friday, June 24 • The entire day was committed to touring KSU at Manhattan, KS. Juniors visited the beef stocker unit and listened to a presentation by Dr. Dale Blasi, a

professor and extension specialist in beef cattle nutrition and management. Dr. Daniel Thomson, Jones Professor of Production Medicine and Epidemiology, discussed animal welfare. • Sandra Utter Levering, ABS Global regional manager, facilitated a workshop on udder scoring and feet and leg scoring and evaluation. Juniors first worked individually to score feet and udders on live cattle then worked in groups of three for their final evaluation. • Juniors presented their prepared and extemporaneous speeches at the animal science building. The KSU tour concluded with a stop at Call Hall for ice cream and souvenir shopping at the bookstore. Saturday, June 25 • The JRA group toured commercial and purebred Red Angus herds at Kniebel Cattle Co. of White City, KS, and learned more about managing tall grass prairie and building and utilizing ponds. • Shane and Shawn Tiffany, owners and managers of Tiffany Cattle Co., Herington, KS, described mar-

keting, how Red Angus cattle perform in their feedlot, and how they use alternative feedstuffs in their rations. • The juniors returned back to Kniebel Cattle Co. for a meal and the annual JRA business meeting. They competed in Barnyard Olympics and the Equipment Identification Contest and concluded the 2011 JRA Round-Up with a swimming and pizza party and awards presentations. The newly elected JRA board is Laura Daniel of LaGrange, GA, president; Cele Ketchum of Plevna, MT, first vice president; Shana Morcom of Arlington, WA, second vice president; and Alyssa Looney of Denton, TX, as public relations director. On Sunday, June 26, the new board trained under Kassie Curran, KSU student from Girard, KS, on developing mission statements, team building and goal setting. For information about JRA programs, visit the website at RedAngus.org or contact Dawn Bernhard, junior programs coordinator, dawn@redangus.org. — WLJ

T EMPLETON L I V ESTOCK M A RKET Annual Bred Cow Sale

Saturday, August 13, 2011 • 1 P.M. Offering 600-800 Head

Featuring: • Herd dispersal 100 3 to 10-years-old Angus/Sim cows bred to Angus bulls from Rockgate Ag/Deer Valley Ranch • 90 first-calf females, AngusX bred to low birth weight Angus bulls from Roy Bognuda Ranch • 50 Fancy first-calf females, Angus/AngusX bred to low birth weight Angus bulls from Norman Buchman Plus many smaller bunches of fancy local cows and heifers. Please call Randy for more information.

Also, don’t forget:

V ISA LIA ’ S Cat tlemen’s Select Bull Sale

Sunday, September 18, 2011 • 1 P.M. Featuring 200 head of top quality hand-selected bulls. All bulls will be selected for top phenotypes, performance and carcass traits. Angus • Charolais • Hereford •SimAngus

Templeton Livestock Market Office: 805-434-1866

Office 559-625-9615 Randy Baxter • 559-906-9760 Sam Avila • 559-799-3854

USDA provides disaster support for Montana counties USDA has designated Valley County in Montana as a primary natural disaster area due to losses caused by winter storms, blizzards, excessive moisture and flooding that began Jan. 1, 2011, and continues. “Valley County has experienced severe storms and flooding that has caused major losses to alfalfa, barley, peas and wheat crops,” said Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. Farmers and ranchers in the following counties in Montana also qualify for natural disaster assistance because their counties are contiguous: Daniels, Garfield, McCone, Phillips and

Roosevelt. All counties listed above were designated natural disaster areas July 20, 2011, making all qualified farm operators in the designated areas eligible for low-interest emergency loans from USDA’s Farm Service Agency, provided requirements are met. Interested farmers may contact their local USDA Service Centers for further information on eligibility requirements and application procedures for these and other programs. Additional information is also available online at http:// disaster.fsa.usda.gov. — WLJ

Trichomoniasis is a big liability. One infected animal can spread it throughout your herd. And that can reduce a calf crop by as much as 50 percent. In a 100-head herd, you can lose $20,000 or more. You can prevent losses like this with TrichGuard®. It’s the ﬁrst vaccine to protect against Tritrichomonas foetus. A university study shows 1

TrichGuard improves calving percentages by more than 90 percent compared to unvaccinated controls1. And you can take those results right to the bank. For more information about TrichGuard, visit www.productionvalues.com, talk to your Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica representative, or call 800-325-9167.

Clinical evaluation of the efﬁcacy of inoculating cattle with a vaccine containing Tritrichomonas foetus, William G. Kvasnicka, DVM. et al, American Journal of Veterinary Research, Vol 53, No. 11, November, 1992. TrichGuard is a registered trademark of Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica, Inc. ©2010 Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica, Inc. BIVI 1615-1