Ofn dummy 10 23 17 by Eric Tietze

OCTOBER 23, 2017 • 28 PAGES

VOLUME 11, NUMBER 12 • WWW.OZARKSFN.COM

AG MARKETING ISSUE • PRODUCTION SALE ISSUE

OCTOBER 23, 2017

Sold On Genetics

Leo and Nancy Anderson are firm believers in following programs laid out by the Angus Association

A Farming Dream

The Brewsters are dedicated to quality and sustainability at their Triangle Anchor Ranch

The Road to Breeding Stock Kraig and Rhonda Withers began building their herd nearly two decades ago

Managing the Mud Muddy conditions in pastures and feeding areas can be an additional hurdle in the winter months Serving More Than 24,000 Readers Across Northwest Arkansas & Eastern Oklahoma

rumor mill

Nominations sought: The Arkansas Agriculture Hall of Fame is seeking nominations from the public for its next class. The nomination deadline is Nov. 1. The Agriculture Hall of Fame recognizes Arkansans who are or have contributed significantly to the state’s largest industry, while spotlighting their contributions to the state’s economic development. Since its first class was selected in 1987, a total of 158 men and women have been inducted. Forms can also be requested by calling Cindra Bell at 501-228-1609. Oklahoma cattle producers to vote: The Oklahoma Cattlemen’s Association is asking state cattle owners to agree to increase the amount of money they contribute toward programs that promote the consumption of beef. Ranchers will vote on an additional Oklahoma Beef Checkoff dollar that would generate more money for the Oklahoma Beef Council to support its programs. Currently, federal law requires Oklahoma producers to pay a $1 checkoff on every head of cattle sold. To vote, producers should go to their local Extension center on Nov. 1 to cast their ballot. NEO rodeo team members place: The Northeastern Oklahoma A&M College (NEO) Rodeo Team, located in Miami, Okla., recently competed in Colby, Kan., for the first regular season National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association (NIRA) rodeo. Three NEO riders earned a top-five spot, with Amber Scales placing first in barrel racing, Ben Piazza placing third in tie-down roping and Steven Richmond placing fourth in steer wrestling. FFA members receive scholarships: Three FFA members from the Oklahoma Ozarks region have received a Ringmaster Scholarship at the Tulsa State Fair. Those receiving the $1,500 scholarships are Darcey Hilburn of the Vinita FFA Chapter, Grant Hubbard of the Miami FFA Chapter and Rhett Pursley of the Locust Grove FFA. Endowment to provide educational funding: CobbVantress, Inc., a leader in the global poultry industry headquartered in Siloam Springs, Ark., recently announced the establishment of the Cobb-Vantress Fellowship Endowment. The $250,000 endowment paid over three years is intended to support a graduate student during the two to three year academic program for a M.S. or Ph.D. degree. Preference will be given for students interested in the sciences necessary to support advancements in genetics in poultry science. The student recruitment process will begin when the endowment is fully established, which is expected in spring 2020.

The Ozarks Most Read Farm Newspaper

OCTOBER 23, 2017

VOL. 11, NO. 12

JUST A THOUGHT

4 5

Jerry Crownover – A stray goat brings loads of entertainment Jody Harris – Pile its and splitters Julie Turner-Crawford – Twisted words, meanings

MEET YOUR NEIGHBORS 7 The Smalls continue to grow their farming operation

8 10

Miller Pecan Company began in 1988

Eye on Agribusiness features Elkins Farmers Coop

Town & Country features Travis Jackson

Leo and Nancy Anderson are sold on Angus programs, genetics

The farming dream continues for the Brewsters

Youth in Agriculture spotlights Drake Price

Kraig and Rhonda Withers started their operation with 15 heifers

FARM HELP 21 Frances wants to be a farmer 22 Cutting out the middle man 24 Managing mud around livestock is key

OzarksFarm @OzarksFarm Know a Good Rumor? Do you have a rumor you would like to share with our readers? Mail them to: PO Box 6, Prairie Grove, AR 72753; fax them to: 417-532-4721; or email them to: editor@ozarksfn.com

The importance of colostrum

Ozarks Farm & Neighbor • www.ozarksfn.com

OCTOBER 23, 2017

just a

thought

PO Box 6, Prairie Grove, AR 72753

Toll Free: 1-866-532-1960

479-846-1002 • Fax: 479-846-1003 E-mail: Member: editor@ozarksfn.com

What’s On Your Mind, Ozarks?

Weekly Sale

Life Is Simple

Every Wednesday at 11:00 a.m. starting with Calves & Yearlings, Stock Cows, Butcher Cows, then Bulls.

e f i L elpmiS si

With the lowest commission rates in the area and the best buyers, getting you top dollar for your livestock is what we do best!

By Jerry Crownover

bout three weeks ago my wife and I were sitting on the revback onwoporch, rC yrrlate eJ yB one Sunday afternoon, when I noticed all the cattle in the north pasJerry Crownover is ture running toward the woods as if a farmer and former they were being chased. Since they were running professor of Agriculture from the direction of the pond, I assumed some Education at Missouri uninvited fisherman had spooked them, as has State University. He is a happened so many times before, so I hopped on native of Baxter County, the ATV to go and have a few words with the tresArkansas, and an passer. I found no one there and no obvious signs author and professional of what might have scared the animals. speaker. To contact Jerry, Early the next morning, I was sitting on the go to ozarksfn.com and front porch (I sit on porches…a lot) when I obclick on ‘Contact Us.’ served the same bunch of cattle running from the woods, toward the direction of the pond. As I continued to watch what was happening, I scanned the tree line in hopes of seeing the source of the problem. Then, something small and black eased out of the forest and continued towards the cattle. Was it a dog? Was it a weird-colored coyote? Was it the elusive panther that I’ve heard about all my life? I ran in the house to retrieve my binoculars. Breathless, as I turned the focusing knob on the high-powered spyglasses, the little, black blob began to take shape. Slowly, but surely, I began to recognize the critter that had been causing all the commotion. It was…a goat; a coal-black, billy goat, with huge horns and, without a doubt, the ugliest goat I’d ever laid eyes on. What the heck? There are no goat farms around here. After breakfast, I began to canvas the neighbors, the coffee shop and the feed store. While I was surprised to discover that two of my neighbors did have some pet goats, no one was missing an ugly, horned billy. As I was returning home, I witnessed the — Continued on Page 6

“Your Livestock Equipment Headquarters”

Sandra Coffman President

Administrative Eric Tietze, Vice-President Operations Kathy Myers, Marketing Manager Sandra Coffman, Accounting Advertising Pete Boaz, Display & Classified Sales Kathy Myers, Production Sales Circulation Stan Coffman, Circulation Editorial Julie Turner-Crawford, Managing Editor Jerry Crownover, Columnist Jody Harris, Columnist Production Amanda Newell, Production Contributors Larry Burchfield, Kathy Daily, Katrina Hine, Klaire Howerton, Kristyn Richner and Terry Ropp

About the Cover Leo and Nancy Anderson raise commercial and registered Angus in rural Hindsville, Ark., with a herd totaling between 600 and 700 head. See more on page 16. Photo by Terry Ropp Ozarks Farm & Neighbor accepts story suggestions from readers. Story information appears as gathered from interviewees. Ozarks Farm & Neighbor assumes no responsibility for the credibility of statements made by interviewees. © Copyright Ozarks Farm & Neighbor, Inc., 2017. All rights reserved. Printed in USA.

“Call today to see what we can do for you!”

WINSETT BARN CO.

POST FRAME SPECIALISTS • MORRIS, OK FARM & RESIDENTIAL BUILDINGS (800) 570-1752 • (918) 733-2059

Horse Barns, Garages, Shops, Arenas, Storage, Sheds, Etc. Pre-Fab Engineered Trusses • 29 & 26 Gauge Metals Attached w/Screws • 2x6 Wall Girts To Ensure Ultimate Stability & Safety

We are fully insured for your protection.

30x40x10 Fully Enclosed..................$10,200 30x50x10 Fully Enclosed..................$10,900 30x50x12 Enclosed w/15x50 Shed......$14,900 30x60x10 Fully Enclosed.................. $11,800 30x60x12 Enclosed w/15x60 Shed......$16,400 40x60x12 Fully Enclosed..................$15,400 40x60x12 Enclosed w/15x60 Shed......$19,300 40x80x14 Fully Enclosed.................. $19,700 40x100x14 Fully Enclosed................$23,900 50x100x14 Fully Enclosed................$34,900

ADD-ONS AVAILABLE

• 3x3 Windows (We Furnish & Install) • 10’ Sliding Door • 12’ Sliding Door • 12’ Split Sliding Door • 14’ Split Sliding Door • 16’ Split Sliding Door • 3x6 Keylock Door Prefab, White Only • 4x8 Dutch Door, We Build • Frame Out For Overhead Doors Only • Ridge Vents, We Furnish & Install

Price Includes: • 29 gauge colored-ribbed steel panel lock • One walk door • One 12’ sliding door • 5x5 Sq. CCA treated poles, treated 2x6 bottom plate • Pre-engineered trusses • One year warranty on workmanship Delivered & Fully Erected On Your Property Barn Kits Available.

Other Sizes Available! These Prices Are Fully Erected On Your Site. Prices Subject To Change.

www.winsettbarncompany.com Your Electric Fence Specialist!

POST FRAME BUILDINGS

Mains Energizers • Unigizers • Battery • Solar • Management Tools • Accessories

800-530-5158

www.zeitlow.com • Email: mosales@zeitlow.com OCTOBER 23, 2017

Serving More Than 24,000 Readers Across Northwest Arkansas & Eastern Oklahoma

39th Annual Production Sale

just a thought

Saturday, November 18—10 a.m.—at the farm Selling:

1 Proven Herd Bull 100 Fall Yearling Bulls 58 January Bull Calves (Wintering Program Available) 60 Fall Calving Pairs 40 Spring Bred Cows 47 Spring Bred Heifers 81 Fall Yearling Heifers 44 Spring Heifer Calves

Lot 97 SydGen Cool 6421

Produced by a two-year-old LIBERTY daughter, this 7 Frame fall bull posted the #1 adj WW (847 lbs.) and YW (1487 lbs.) in his contemporary group and scanned an adj RE of 16.8 sq in. He is one of the many outstanding herd bull prospects offered! Complete catalog available online; mailed with November Angus Journal; or on request from the Farm Oﬃce Check out our website for complete weights, calving, and other updates as they become available �roduc�on Sale broadcast online at www��VAuc�on�com

20th Annual SydGen Influence Commercial Heifer Sale 7:00 p.m.—Callaway Livestock Center, Kingdom City, MO Selling 170 head of top commercial bred heifers. All heifers have met a stringent set of qualifications, and all will be sired by, or bred to SydGen Herd Sires.

�egistered Angus Ca�le Since 1952 Eddie Sydenstricker Sydenstricker John Deere EddieL@sydenstrickers.com Oﬃce: (573) 581‐5900

Visitors Always Welcome PO Box 280 ▪ Mexico, MO 65265 Farm Oﬃce: (573) 581‐1225 www.sydgen.com eggers@socket.net

Ben Eggers, Manager Cell: (573) 473‐9202 Bub Raithel Cell: (573) 253‐1664

FINANCING THE RURAL ARKANSAS LIFESTYLE.

� Large farms � Small farms � Livestock

� Homes in the country � Operating expenses � Vehicles and more!

Freshly Picked By Jody Harris

nce upon a time there were a couple of brothers from Alma who decided to enlist in the Air Force. When the enlisting officer asked if either of them had any special Jody Harris is a freelance skills, he heard the oldest brother say he was a communications specialist, pilot. Very impressed, the officer asked if the othgardener, ranch wife and er brother had any special skills and the oldest mother of four. She and brother replied, “He’s a splitter.” her family raise Angus beef The officer looked confused, “A splitter?” cattle and other critters on “You know, a wood splitter,” the youngest their northwest Arkansas brother said. “He’s the splitter and I’m the pile ranch. She is a graduate it,” answered the oldest brother. Are you crackof Missouri State University. ing up yet? To contact Jody, go to This is the joke my husband’s uncle told me ozarksfn.com and click on several years ago when we were splitting and pil‘Contact Us.’ ing wood for winter. I had no idea what to think when the old fellow was having a good chuckle at my expense. Ever since then, we never split wood where I don’t think of myself as the pilot…or pile it. We have been doing clean up in the garden. We are starting to get things around the farm prepared for winter. We’ve moved all of our hay into barns and rotated cattle into new pastures. When my husband assessed our wood pile recently, he noted that it was not large enough to help us heat the house for the entire winter season. Last weekend, he and our neighbor pulled out the wood splitter and we started to pile it. Since our early married days, we have added four more “pile its” to our crew. They do not find the “splitter and pile it” joke very funny. However, they knew they weren’t going to play until we got all of the wood stacked. Once we finished the first round of logs and stacked it neatly in the shed, we headed out to a field to gather up another pile of logs. My husband tests my machine skills by getting me to help drive the tractor, skid steer or other equipment every so often. I hopped into the skid steer and was completely out of my comfort zone (my real skill level ends at the farm truck level). I drove it up the hill to haul stumps. He patiently talked me through how to use the grappling element to pick up several stumps at a time and unload them onto the trailer. It was ridiculous and I really wasn’t good at it at all. There are buttons, levers and it beeps really loud when I backed it up. A few times I grabbed more dirt than stumps and after several attempts my husband decided he wanted to drive it himself. Once the trailer was filled up, he hauled it down to where we were splitting wood and I managed to drive the skid steer back down to the pile. We had a good first day of wood splitting and the “pile its” did a pretty nice job of getting it stacked up for winter. I’m looking forward to cozy fires in our house this winter. I hope you and your family are ready for winter weather too, neighbor.

CHECK OUT OUR NEWLY REDESIGNED WEBSITE

ozarksfn.com

myaglender.com 800-444-3276

Ozarks Farm & Neighbor • www.ozarksfn.com

OCTOBER 23, 2017

just a thought

MORE CHOICE S. MORE S AV INGS.

Across the Fence

By Julie Turner-Crawford

n the world of farming and ranching, we have a vocabulary all our own. Only in agriculture can phrases and words like adjusted weaning weight, artificial inJulie Turner-Crawford semination, linebreeding, farrowing, douis a native of Dallas ble homozygous and teat dip be spoken without County, Mo., where she anyone batting an eye. grew up on her family’s There are, however, getting to be a few new farm. She is a graduate phrases and words those of us involved in agriculof Missouri State ture are becoming more and more versed in, such University. To contact as animal liberators and animal rights activists. Julie, call 1-866-532-1960 Those groups have made up their own termior by email at editor@ nology regarding agriculture in hopes consumers ozarksfn.com. will turn away from meat and animal products. Phrases such as “rape rack” are being heard more and more. Groups say this is an “industry term referring to the contraptions in which female cows and pigs are restrained while they are forcibly inseminated.” I don’t claim to know everything about agriculture, so please correct me if this statement is incorrect, but don’t think the phrase “rape rack” was in anything I learned in school or growing up around livestock. The animal rights industry likes to use the term because it conjures up thoughts of violation, loss of control and pain. These groups have also taken terms and words common in agriculture and twisted the definitions to suit their anti-agriculture mission. For example, a hatchery is defined by an animal rights group as a place where “virtually all chickens raised and killed for eggs, including those at so-called humane operations… at a day or two old, half of the chicks born at hatcheries are ground up alive, gassed or thrown alive into trash bags, where they suffocate to death: male chicks, who cannot produce eggs and deformed female chicks are useless to the egg industry.” Yes,

MORE CHOICE S. MORE S AV INGS.

0% FINANCING

CASH BACK AND MORE!

During this year’s Value Bonanza sales event, there are more ways to save, including 0% FINANCING, CASH BACK AND MORE on select New Holland products. You’ll ﬁnd the best savings of the year on that New Holland tractor and equipment you’ve had your eye on. But time is not on your side—Value Bonanza ends October 31, 2017—so hurry in today or visit nhoffers.com

0% FINANCING

CASH BACK AND MORE!

2501 N Shiloh Dr, Fayetteville, AR 72704 www.williamstractor.com 479-442-8284

— Continued on Next Page

dessert

Deer Camp Cobbler

Submitted by: Robert Freeman Jr., Bonnerdale, Ark. 2 cans of apple fruit filling 1 box vanilla cake mix

2 sticks butter (do not use margarine) Small bag of pecan chips

In a 9-by-13 baking dish, spread the apple filling evenly on the bottom. Sprinkle about half of the cake mix over the filling. Slice butter into thin pats and cover the top, then sprinkle some pecan chips over the top and place in a 325-degree oven; cook until butter has melted. Remove from the oven and sprinkle more cake mix over the top, then bake for an additional hour at 325 degrees. Note: I usually have about half of the cake mix left over. Know a Good Recipe? Send in your favorite recipe to share with our readers. Mail them to: PO Box 6, Prairie Grove, AR 72753; fax them to: 417-532-4721; or email them to: editor@ozarksfn.com

Country Christmas Cookbook Coming December 4th Submit Your Favorite Holiday Recipes Today! OCTOBER 23, 2017

Bobcat of NW Arkansas

*For Commercial use only. Customer participation subject to credit qualification and approval by CNH Industrial Capital America LLC. See your participating New Holland dealer for details and eligibility requirements. Down payment may be required. Offers good through October 31, 2017 at participating New Holland dealers in the United States. Not all customers or applicants may qualify for this rate or term. CNH Industrial Capital America LLC standard terms and conditions apply. Taxes, freight, set-up, delivery, additional options or attachments not included in price. Offers subject to change or cancellation without notice. © 2017 CNH Industrial Capital America LLC. All rights reserved. New Holland Agriculture is a trademark registered in the United States and many other countries, owned by or licensed to CNH Industrial N.V., its subsidiaries or affiliates. CNH Industrial Capital and New Holland Construction are trademarks in the United States and many other countries, owned by or licensed to CNH Industrial N.V., its subsidiaries or affiliates.

Williams Tractor 2501 Shiloh Dr. Fayetteville, Ark.

Williams Tractor

1207 S. Main 2737 W. Hudson Berryville, Ark. Rogers, Ark. WILLIAMS TRACTOR 2501 N Shiloh Dr, Fayetteville, AR 72704 www.williamstractor.com 479-442-8284

479-442-8284

479-621-6001

870-423-4226

www.williamstractor.com

Serving More Than 24,000 Readers Across Northwest Arkansas & Eastern Oklahoma

AFGC Fall Forage Conference and Forage Tour

Across the Fence

Friday, November 3 at 9:00 a.m. Pauline Whitaker Arena, Fayetteville, AR

Continued from Previous Page

Learn: When to plant for fall grazing • How to get a quick emergency fall or spring forage crop • How planting some forages at the wrong time of year can pay off • How Mississippi StateUniversity saved thou$andson winter feeding $45/person,$60/couple,and $10/students To pre-register for lunch, call Linda McCargo at 501-671-2171 Registration can be paid at the door by cash, credit or debit card, or check. Registration starts at 8:30 a.m. with the Welcome at 9:00 a.m.

Purebred Corral Gelbvieh/Balancer Bulls and Females Available

Angus Bulls

Bentonville, Arkanas

479-273-3030

Martin Cattle Company David Martin

501-278-7614

martincattleco@windstream.net 7/23/18

11/13/17 12/29/14

Allen Moss Herefords Moss Seed Company Registered Horned Herefords CRP Grass Seeds Rt. 2 Box 146 B • Vici, OK 73859 12 Miles of East of Vici Phone/Fax: 580-922-4911 Mobile: 580-334-7842 E-mail: amoss@vicihorizon.com mossherefords.com

Rose Bud Feeders

Keith Cagle

Bull Development & Sales Horned Herefords, Charolais, Angus & Brangus Bulls For Sale (view on website) Cell: 501-940-0299 Email: kgcagle@windstream.net www.rosebudfeeders.com

6/11/18 5/8/17

10/23/17 12/29/14

Red Angus Bulls for Sale COOPER RANCH

SimAngus, Balancer Bulls

501-556-5263

Montrose, MO • bharriman39@hotmail.com

Romance, AR.

9/3/18

18 Mo., Forage Developed, Top Quality & EPDS Harriman Santa Fe (Bob) 660-492-2504

H Charles S. Hatfield, DVM 479-273-3921 • 479-531-2605

Bentonville, AR 6/11/18 3/3/14 2/9/15

WinDYRegistered AcreS cATTle Angus Bulls Rose Bud, AR

501-412-4939

2/26/18

TRO-GIN

Your ad is only $19 per issue!

Troy & Virginia Bedwell HWY. 71 6.5 MI. S. OF MANSFIELD, AR

*479-675-4420*

Come By & See Our Nice Selection Of Bulls & Females For Sale

8/13/18 5/29/17

Bell Rule Genetics n Reg. Angus Bulls n Commercial and Registered Females Adair, Oklahoma

www.bellrule.com Dean ~ 918-698-2993 Brandon ~ 536-299-7609 10/23/17 10/23/17

Registered Gelbvieh and Balancers Bulls and Females

FOR SALE

HODGES R ANCH

Omaha, AR home 870-426-4469 cell 870-704-9450 hodgesranch@live.com 9/3/18

Call Toll Free 1-866-532-1960 6

the group has it’s own glossary of terms it uses to spread inaccurate information to anyone willing to listen to their claims, or read their websites. I’ve seen tremendous amounts of online activity lately from those groups claiming they are trying to “save” animals. A small family farm in Colorado was recently targeted by such a group. A few members of the group entered the farm under the pretense of being volunteers. They asked an 8-year-old child where the chickens were housed, stole three chickens, then hurried off the property to meet up with 30 to 40 other “liberators” to lock arms and chant. If groups want to “save” animals, I’m sure there are plenty of farmers and ranchers whose animals are suffering because of injury or illness due to natural disasters, such as wildfires, floods and hurricanes. I would like to share a few definitions of my own: n Trespassing: An unlawful act causing injury to the person, property or rights of another, committed with force or violence, actual or implied; a wrongful entry upon the lands of another. If you’re caught on my property without permission, you will be prosecuted and you’d better hope my Second Amend-

ment-loving, proud military veteran husband isn’t in a bad mood. n Family farm: A farm owned and/or operated by a family. Ninety-eight percent of the farms in the U.S. are family owned and operated farms, and are home to farmers who care about their livestock and spend countless hours caring for their animals, with few or no vacations, sick days or weather-related days off from work. n Livelihood: The way one earns money to pay for food, a place to live, clothing, etc. If someone tries to take that livelihood away, farmers and ranchers will fight until the end because it’s their way of life, not just a job. n Respect: A feeling of deep admiration for someone or something elicited by their abilities, qualities or achievements. Until you walked a few miles in a farmer’s boots, or ridden a horse or tractor seat for hours upon hours, show a little respect to those involved in agriculture. And just remember: no farmers, no food.

BRANGUS RANCH

12/4/17

Place your ad in Purebred Corral and you’ll also receive a listing in the Cattlemen’s Seedstock Directory in our Classifieds section and also in the Cattlemen’s Seedstock Directory on our website.

just a thought

Life Is Simple Continued from Page 3 homely creature easily slip through two more fences, on his way to a neighbor’s farm south of my home. After I called to warn the neighbor of what was coming their way, the goat followed their horse into a corral where they captured him. While I was at the feed store, Amos, a friend and farmer from a few miles west of here, had volunteered to take the goat if no owner was located. He came and loaded it in his trailer that afternoon and took the hideous creature to his farm, while making it known that he would keep it for a few days while everyone tried to find its rightful home. A few days later, during an afternoon gathering at the feed store, one of the

Ozarks Farm & Neighbor • www.ozarksfn.com

regulars brought up the subject of the billy goat. After debating all possible scenarios, the group surmised that someone had probably gotten tired of having the repulsive-looking goat for a pet and had simply driven out to our countryside and dumped it. In an attempt to be humorous, one of the old guys stated, “Well, don’t that just get your goat?” And then it began. Another one asked, “Do you think it was a scapegoat, or an escaped goat?” Yet, another one, added, “You’ve goat to be kidding me.” At that point, everyone rose to leave and the first one out the door stated, “Those puns are baaaaaaad.” OCTOBER 23, 2017

meet your

neighbors The #1

All About Family

Photo by Larry Burchfield

By Larry Burchfield

Family continues to grow their farming operation in Pope County, Ark. Terry and Gail Small got an ear- good off-farm income and ly start in their farming opera- benefits. It would have tion thanks to a little help from a been hard without it.” couple sets of family members. The chicken houses provide Two years after graduating Hector High ample litter for the farm’s ferSchool, they leased land in Oak Grove, tilizer needs. With the help of Ark., from Gail’s grandparents and were the chicken litter, the Smalls given 10 cows by Terry’s parents. are able to meet all their Having no hay equipment of their own, hay needs and provide high Terry’s dad brought hay equipment from quality grazing for the cattle. Tilly, Ark., and helped cut and bale hay. Ponds are kept in good condiTerry was already working full time as a tion to insure quality drinking maintenance operator at the Bridgestone- water for the cattle. Cattle are Firestone plant in Russellville, Ark., so the vaccinated annually and prohelp was much needed and appreciated. vided minerals as needed to Thirty-four years later, Terry and Gail insure quality beef. To keep are still cattle farming in Hector, Ark. the farm environmentally Their family has grown to include two safe and clean, an ecodrum sons, Eric and Cody, who are both mar- has been installed on one ried with children of their own. The boy’s farm and plans are completed live close and help on the farm whenever to install another soon. their off-farm jobs allow. “The ecodrum has been a In 1997, the Smalls purchased their first huge addition for us,” said farm, which included three broiler houses. Terry. “We mix dry shavings Terry and Gail did not know a thing about with the mortality birds, alTerry and Gail Small raise more than 1.7 raising chickens, but with the help of oth- low them to compost 21 to million broilers annually, and also operate a er local growers they learned quickly. 25 days, then apply the by125-head commercial cow herd. The Smalls bought more land in 2003 product to our pastures. It’s and updated existing chicken houses, and all natural and totally envibuild two more. After 30 years, Terry re- ronmentally friendly.” tired from Firestone in 2013 and devoted The ecodrum is basically a large, long The 2012 drought hit the Smalls hard. full time to the farm. The next year the barrel looking apparatus. Temperature “I had to sell about half of my herd beSmalls purchased a farm 2 miles away, inside the drum is kept at 120-125 de- cause I didn’t have the pasture or hay to which had five broiler houses on it, bring- grees to speed up composted and the feed them, “ Terry said. “That really hurt ing the total farm operation to 650 acres, drum rotates periodically. me. But, we have slowly built back.” 300 rented and 350 owned. They raise an “NRCS worked with us on this project,” For Terry and Gail Smalls, it is all about average of 6.5 flocks a year under contract Terry said. “They have been a huge help. family. Operating a family farm has been with Tyson Foods (1,774,500 chickens), We hope to have the second ecodrum in- part of their plan from the very beginning. and run 125 head of cattle. stalled soon.” Their success was recognized this year by “We couldn’t have done Farming has not been with- being selected as the Pope County Farm all this without Terry workout challenges in recent years. Family of the Year. Future plans include Hector, Ark. ing at Firestone.” Gail said. Storms have caused extensive adding more cattle, updating the chicken “It was hard; he would work damage to some of the chicken houses and improving bull selection to all day, then come home and houses, calling for major repairs improve their cattle herd, and improvwork into the night on the to be done. In one storm, an entire ing conservation practices to insure good farm. But that job provided house was lost and had to be replaced. quality of farm life for future generations. OCTOBER 23, 2017

Serving More Than 24,000 Readers Across Northwest Arkansas & Eastern Oklahoma

D ealer in Missouri Sales $’s 2004-2017!

You Went To Farmfest & Saw Their Best Prices

Now Call Us!

We’ll Save You Money!

We operate on low overhead and volume sales, this saves you money!

NEW Gooseneck™ Livestock Trailers, 16’-40’ In Stock

Over 30 More

NEW Flatbed, Dump & Cargo 8’-40’ Trailers In Stock

Trade-In’s Welcome!

Frye Farms

TSrailers ,M eneca

417-438-0146 7

quipment Loans

Rates as low as

ake Advantage of Great Rates

3.37% APR*

For 36 to 84-month Fixed Rate Loans Stop in and see us next time you need farm equipment or would like to refinance at a better rate!!

www.BankofGravett.com

we ﬁrst opened our doors in Benton County almost 120 years ago. Less than 100 years ago many ir ﬁelds with horses. are banking online from their laptops. While the face of agriculture keeps changing, one thing n it and invested in it since the day our doors opened for business.

Centerton 479.795.0123

Hiwasse

479.787.7779 479.855.7779

Gravette

479.787.5251

*Based on a 48-month $50,000 xed rate loan; FICO score of 720+; some restrictions may apply.

We’ve been making ag loans since we first opened our doors in Benton County almost 120 years ago. Less than 100 years ago many local farmers were still plowing their fields with horses. Today, many of our ag customers are banking online from their laptops. While the face of agriculture keeps changing, one thing remains the same: We’ve believed in it and invested in it since the day our doors opened for business.

meet your neighbors

The Road to Breeding Stock By Terry Ropp

Kraig and Rhonda Withers began building their herd nearly two decades ago Some teenage marriages not only survive but prosper. This is the case with Kraig Withers who married his high school sweetheart Rhonda Harris when they were only 19 and 17. The couple worked hard and developed a group of companies with Withco Constructors Inc., specializing in multi-housing as the flagship of the group and in addition to property and investment companies.

from friend Butch Hardesty’s Arrowhead Ranch in the early 2000s when some of his heifers were for sale. The Withers bought 15 heifers and an Angus bull to begin a commercial herd. They purchased Lim Flex and then next they purchased eight E6 bred heifers from Taft Prison between Muskogee and Haskell, Okla. Those E6 heifers turned into good cows and seem to contain the best combination

Reliable Poultry Supply “OUR NAME SAYS IT ALL” Service Work Weekend & Daily Retro Fits Free Estimates

Springdale

2974 E. Emma St.

Neosho

13991 Pennell Ln.

417-451-0807 Green Forest

1003 Ventura Ave.

870-438-5541 Siloam Springs 1629 E. Main St.

479-373-6590

www.reliablepoultry.com Shops, barns, stacking sheds, compost sheds, work sheds and generator sheds. Turn key projects: poultry houses, turkey breeder and broiler

Kraig and Rhonda Withers started in the cattle business with 15 heifers and an Angus bull. Today the couple manages two ranches that cover 900 acres.

479-751-7511

Check out our new Greenwood Store! 1724 W. Center St.

479-996-1377 479-996-1378

Photo by Terry Ropp

Regardless of their business success, of fertility, milking ability, weight, confirboth were raised in the country and mation, hardiness and disposition. While wanted cattle of their own. Kraig was they subsequently disbursed their entire raised on a subsistence type ranch that herd due to working out of state, they were sold milk and cotton from 50 acres not out of the cattle business for long. In 2013, the couple decided to buy seven while raising about everything else they needed. Rhonda, on the other hand, was registered, full blood and just weaned Limraised on the Liston Ranch on the other ousin heifers. Later, at a dispersal sale, they bought more full blood heifers, cows and side of town. a bull. Kraig and Rhon“The herd bull was da’s country adCoweta, Okla. my birthday present, venture began with much better than a rodeos, horses and showing pigs fishing pole,” Rhonwith their two children, Keith and da said, Kretia, rather than with raising Limousins have cattle. Their cattle hobby started an F94L gene found with Tiger Striped cattle purchased

Ozarks Farm & Neighbor • www.ozarksfn.com

OCTOBER 23, 2017

meet your neighbors almost exclusively in the Limousin breed. on-site sale thus far though they are hopThat gene promotes growth, weight ing to have one in 2018. They sell no and feed efficiency as well as increasing bull under one year of age and are in the tenderness. In addition, both Kraig and process of increasing their herd by 20 perRhonda like the red color. cent in order to be able to sell open and “Our Limousins have been bred for bred heifers next April. After DNA gedocility and milk production. If they’re netic breeding, the first criteria for culling wild, they’re gone, so our herd is very is by confirmation because individual diftame,” Kraig said. ferences are unavoidable and eye appeal The Withers have 900 acres spread is important in breeding stock. among two ranches with Diamond R Calves are weaned at 6 months of age, at Cattle Company serving at the center. 550 to 650 pounds. All cattle are offered They raise full-blooded Limousins and are free choice granular minerals in addition starting to raise purebred with their son to mineral and salt blocks. In the summer, Keith, who is the project manager and the they are grained twice a week in order to herdsman. Rhonda does the paperwork retain docility. Winter rations are as much for the cattle, which is almost a full-time as is needed. The Withers use a 14 percent job at this time, as well as for their other protein mixed ration supplemented their businesses, while their granddaughter Kai- own hay as needed. The cattle are worked tlynn shows cattle nationwide. in April and October with ear tags used for All cows are bred by AI with natural cov- flies and supported by spraying during fly er used for cleanup. season as well as vacThey have contractcinations, tattooing, ed service from an etc., as needed. Our Limousins experienced techni“While Keith have been cian who now lives sees the cattle evbred for docility and ery day, I like to in Oklahoma and who achieves a 65 put an eye on them milk production. If to 90 percent conat least every two they’re wild, they’re ception rate. Their or three days and intended market is want to see them gone, so our herd is commercial cattlefat and sassy, well, very tame.” men with different perhaps not really buyers looking for – Kraig Withers sassy but happy,” different combiRhonda said. nations of traits. The Withers Breeding by AI and using DNA analysis have land with native grasses and Berallows them to select those traits requested muda in addition to the 160-acre hay by larger buyers with much greater accura- meadow of all native grasses and procy. Most commercial breeders want higher duce 550 bales in a good year. Kraig marbling. Consequently, the Withers offer prefers to keep 200 extra bales on hand a variety of genetic patterns with an aver- for a bad winter or dry summer. Because age easy birth weight around 70 pounds, the land is self-sufficient fertilizing draggood milking, docility, feed efficiency with ging and spraying for weeds are mostly the highest yield and good growth rate be- unnecessary. Water is supplied by ponds, ing required traits. two of which are spring fed. Kraig built For more than 40 years, the United five ponds himself with a dozer, Kraig’s States has not allowed African cattle favorite ranching task. into the country. Rhonda has spent the Both Kraig and Rhonda feel time is last two and a half years trying to get their biggest challenge which means some of those genetics into their herd they are especially appreciative of for greater diversity while abiding by Keith’s role as ranch manager and Kaiall regulations with the first calves with tlynn’s daily help. Kertia and her husthose genetics due Oct. 26. band along with their two children Gus The Withers sell by private treaty and and Kragen are also involved. This is have not had an excess to constitute an definitely a family affair.

“

OCTOBER 23, 2017

Wholesale Seed Division

417-725-3512 • 1-800-648-7379

Wt. Lbs.

Total Germ.

$ Lb.

Bag Lb.

Wt. Lbs.

RED CLOVERS 60 GAINER III MIX,

90% 2.06

Inoc., Not Coated,

80% Red, 12.5% Ladino, 5.5% Alsike

60 GAINER II MIX

90% 1.98

Bag:

WINTER PEA, Austrian HAIRY VETCH, Winter Legume TURNIPS, Purple Top TURNIPS, 7-Top

FESCUE 50 KY-31, Cert. & “Fungus Free”

Forage, Inoc., Not Coated,

Equivalent to $1.50 Coated Seed

50 MEDIUM RED, Raw 90% 1.76 50 MARATHON, Cert., Innoc, Not Coated 2.43

OTHER CLOVERS 50 LADINO, “JUMBO”

90% 3.94 3.74

Inoc., Not Coated, Giant Leaf, Excellent, Re-Growth

50 LADINO “ROYAL”

90% 3.68 3.48

Inoc., Not Coated

50 ALSIKE, Perennial 50 WHITE CLOVER, “Nitro” 50 SWEET, Yellow Blossom 50 ARROWLEAF, Yuchi Winter Annual, 99% Purity 50 CRIMSON, Winter Annual 50 BIRDSFOOT TREFOIL, Leo

90% 90% 88%

2.74 3.68 1.66 2.62

2.54 3.48 1.46 2.42

90% 1.43 1.23 86% 3.85 3.65

ALFALFAS 60 COMMON SENSE

GRAIN ADDITIVES

90% 1.88

Bag Lb.

Inoc., Not Coated, 87% Red Clover, 12.5% Ladino

60 KENSTAR

50 50 50 50

Total Germ.

50 GENUITY, Roundup Ready®, L446RR, Coated 7.68 50 VERNAL, Cert, Winter Hardy 90% 3.48 3.28 50 HAYGRAZER, Inoc., Not Coated 3.72 50 CIMARRON, VL400, Inoc., Not Coated 3.72

GRAINS 50 COLDGRAZER RYE, Strain Cross 50 WHEAT, Forage Maxx 50 TRITICALE, Cert. Tricale 348 50 BOB OATS, Winter Oat 48 BARLEY, Winter

12.85 11.85 14.65 16.85 13.85

Your Ag Chemicals Headquarters

90% 1.78

Only $10.00 Per Acre Difference!

50 KY-31 86% 1.38 90% 1.78 50 KY-32, Fungus Free, Cert. 50 FAST PASTURE MIX, Cattle/Horses 90% 1.74

Hulled Orchard Grass, Fungus-Free

KY-31 Fescue, Perennial Ryegrass & Timothy

25 ESTANCIA, Friendly Endo/Ark. ASK ASK 25 BAR OPTIMA E34, Soft Leaf ASK 25 MAX Q II Lacefield,

ORCHARD GRASS Add A Legume! 50 ARID, Drought Tolerant 90% 90% 50 Hulled Orchard grass VNS 90% 50 POTOMAC, Disease Resistant 50 FAST PASTURE MIX 90%

2.96 2.98 2.84 1.74

Hulled Orchard Grass, Fungus-Free KY-31 Fescue,

Perennial Ryegrass & Timothy

FIELD GRASSES

90% 3.64 3.34

Inoc., Not Coated

.79 .59 1.88 1.68 1.62 1.39 1.82 1.58

50 ABUNDANT 92%

50 BROME, “Southland”

.73

Tetraploid Annual Ryegrass

85% 2.64

“The high protein grass.” Sow with alfalfa!

50 TIMOTHY, For horses 90% .96 50 BEST-FOR PLUS 92% 1.08 2.18 50 PERSISTER, Improved Matua 4.84 50 REED CANARY, Chiefton 6.58 50 RED TOP, Limited

No license req’d to buy 2,4-D or GrazonNext!

Nixa, Missouri • nixahardware.com Nixa Hardware Company warrants to the extent of the purchase price that seeds sold are as described on the container within recognized tolerances. Seller gives no other or further warranty expressed or implied. Prices/Germination subject to change without notice. We reserve the right to limit quantities.

SAVE YOUR SEED SAMPLE

Serving More Than 24,000 Readers Across Northwest Arkansas & Eastern Oklahoma

SUBJECT TO PRIOR SALE

ozarks

roots

the people, places and traditions that make the ozarks home Photos by Katrina Hine

Miller Pecan Company

By Katrina Hine

This family owned and operated business began in 1988 when founder Les Miller found himself in need of a job What started out as a job loss sprouted into a family enterprise with a long-term vision. When BF Goodrich, manufacturer of heavy duty tires, shut its doors in 1986, over a 1,000 people were out of work. Len Miller was one of those people and this meant finding something to fill the void. Len started harvesting pecans for extra cash and in 1988 bought his first pecan harvester. Soon he was joined by two of his three sons, Justin and Jared, in the pecan harvesting venture. The purchase of a pecan cleaning facility near Chetopa, Kan., paved the way for Miller Pecan Company to become a reality. But with family and pecan groves in Oklahoma, it made more sense to move operations to Miami where they built new facilities for custom cleaning in 2006, selling the Kansas operation.

The men continued to acquire and clean acres of river bottom land, which pecans prefer, moving towards what they hoped would be a sustainable future for their family. The Miller’s now own 1,000 acres of their own pecan groves, some with trees nearly 160 years old. “This isn’t a crop that yields a quick return but more like a 401K,” Jared Miller said. They became well-versed in different varieties of pecans: from the Jayhawks, an early producer, to the native pecans that yield their smaller nut about midNovember. Grafting allows them to customize their groves for almost any variety of pecan the industry demands. Sadly, in 2010, Len died in a harvesting accident and would not see his son’s vision for their pecan endeavor: from planting and harvesting to product sales with the construction of a new shelling

facility and retail store in 2014 located north of Afton on Highway 69 near the I-44 Afton exit. All under the Miller name, carrying on Len’s legacy. “It’s scary when you are starting out from scratch…buying all new equipment and with all the new Food Safety regulations, you can’t just buy used equipment,” Jared states. Originally the new facility was to shell their own pecans but that first year they doubled what they could produce, now they are processing six to seven times that. Because of high local demand, they purchase from local growers and individuals who walk-in with bags of pecans. They do not process pecans from groves where cattle graze to avoid cross-contamination. The retail store front was an opportunity to not only share their homegrown pecans but to showcase the diversity of

Ozarks Farm & Neighbor • www.ozarksfn.com

pecans beyond roasting or pecan pie. One such product is 100 percent virgin pecan oil for an assortment of cooking applications. They often sell their pecans to companies who make candy and end up selling those products back in their retail store. Not all the products are from the Miller’s pecan groves, several are from Oklahoma and other pecan producing states like Louisiana, New Mexico or Georgia. They expanded their down-home selections with honey, jams and other products reminiscent of Grandma’s kitchen. “It is exciting times for the pecan industry which just passed a federal marketing order, like the beef industry, there is a pecan check-off that funds more research and marketing,” Jared explains. Pecans are joining the list of nutritious natural foods grown in the United OCTOBER 23, 2017

ozarks roots States. According to an article by Dr. Edward Group; pecans beat out most other nuts for their antioxidant value. Pecans deliver more oleic acid than olive oil, contain 90 percent unsaturated (heart-healthy) fats, are low sodium, cholesterol free, contain essential vitamins and minerals, and have important alpha and gamma-tocopherol forms of vitamin E. Pecans can be stored in the shell in cold storage up to seven years. However, once out of the freezer, they need to use them with a week or so. Fresh bagged pecans shelf life is about three months. “People think that pecans should last a long time in the cupboard,” Jared said. “Like any other produce, they are full of oil and will eventually go bad.” The biggest challenge for pecan producers is the pecan weevil, which is the only insect that can leave a residual worm in the pecans. Stink bugs are insects that they battle in the field. They bite the pecans leaving a dark spot, causing a bitter taste, nevertheless, their equipment can split off damaged halves, salvaging the good portion. Another issue is too much rain, resulting in scab or fungus. They spray with fungicide May through July but ground rigs cannot spray native trees that can exceed 100 feet in height. They utilize planes to spray complete groves for efficiency. Because of the thick husk and hard shell there are no traceable pesticides in the meat and spraying is never done after shuck split. According to Justin, their favorite producer in resilience and production is the Major, which comes from Kentucky. These trees produce nice meats and survived the ice storm of 2007. They fire up processing mid-October, utilizing infrared eye machines with the latest technology to catch discolored meats and shells after the pecans have been cracked, shaken and sized. The facility is capable of processing nearly 4 million pounds but they are taking it slow, averaging half million pounds more each year. When in full operation they employ up to 15 people at the shelling facility and bring in the holiday season with delicious gift packages and homemade fudge made by Justin’s wife, Carrie. OCTOBER 23, 2017

Get All Your Fall and Winter Needs with these Brands at Powell Home and Ranch!

www.PowellFeedStores.com

NORTH ARKANSAS LIVESTOCK AUCTION, INC. Call 870-438-6915 For Sale Information & For Special Sales For on Farm Appraisal or Hauling Contact One of the Following: Berryville

Clifty

Kevin (Short) Williams H - 870-423-3099 C - 870-423-8444

Elmer Robertson C - 479-466-0904

Kevin Logan H - 870-545-3637 C - 870-423-7708

Troy Cline H - 479-665-2934 C - 479-738-7746

Restaurant on Premises

Kingston

“We Know Cattle, and we Know the Markets” Kirk Powell (870) 654-2205 and Ron Wallace (870) 654-6369 Community Owned and Operated with Consistency, Uniformity, and Convenience • Online Auctions with bidding • Hay and Water pens • On Farm Appraisals • Free Parking • Hauling and Delivery

• Professional staff and services • Cattle sorted by size, weight, type • Receiving day before and day of

Auctions on Wednesdays, 10:30 a.m. Special auctions to be announced. 304 West Main Street • Green Forest, AR 72638 Office (870) 438-6915 • Fax (870) 438-5223 www.northarkansaslivestock.com

Serving More Than 24,000 Readers Across Northwest Arkansas & Eastern Oklahoma

28 Years Strong 1989 - 2017

We go the extra mile. Large Enough to Serve… Small Enough to Care Hay Barns Fire Stations Horse Barns Retail Centers Pole Barns Metal Shops Churches Airplane FREE estimates Hangers by the friendliest people in town Arenas

a a a a a a a a a

All Steel Structures • Bolt Together Engineered Buildings Open Saturdays 8 a.m.-Noon www.MarathonMetal.com sales@MarathonMetal.com

Mac’s

VET SUPPLY

Keeping Your Herd Healthy & Efficient

Best Quality Products Delivered or Shipped To Your Door at the Lowest Prices

Open Mon-Fri 9am to 4pm Call In Your Order Today & You’ll Receive It Tomorrow!

Come Check Out Our Newly Expanded Store at Springfield Livestock Marketing Center, Exit 70 I-44 & Hwy. MM

417-863-8446 1-888-360-9588

Seedstock Plus Bull & Female Sale November 18, 2017 * 12 p.m. Kingsville Livestock, Kingsville, MO

Selling: 25 - 2 year old Balancer & Gelbvieh bulls 400 Females! Reputation Herds of Registered & Commercial Angus, Balancer & Gelbvieh Females bringing large groups! Offering includes fall open heifers, spring bred heifers, fall and spring pairs and bred young cows! Black & Red!

To view on-line catalogs and videos: www.seedstockplus.com For Catalogs call toll free: 877-486-1160 or email: john@seedstockplus.com

eye on

agri-business meeting the needs of farmers

Elkins Farmers Coop Story and Photo By Terry Ropp

Location: Elkins, Ark. Business: Elkins Farmers Coop Manager: Andi Carlton History: “This area cooperative, which is now comprised of 17 stores, opened in 1944 in Fort Smith and ranges from Northwest Arkansas to Mena and also includes part of Oklahoma. Now the home office and warehouse is in Van Buren,” manager of the Elkins location Andi Carlton said. “This location opened three years ago after being purchased from a local family. Then two years ago we added True Value in order to incorporate hardware into our location.” Products and Services: “The largest part of our business, 50-85 percent depending on the month, is feed. We have a bulk five-way cattle commodity mix in 1,500 pounds containers. If someone needs more, a truck from Van Buren will deliver the product to the farm. Our bagged feed brands for cattle, horses, sheep, goats, pigs and chickens include Purina and MFA. We also carry food for dogs and cats with additional brands being Diamond, Taste of the Wild and Victor. We only sell 28 percent nitrogen liquid fertilizer in 2,500-to-2,800 pound totes that farmers often mix with liquid herbicide for a one spray application. Our weed killers, Down and Windfield, are sold in 1-gallon and 2 1/2-gallon containers, as well as 30-gallon drums. We also carry an assortment of equipment including chutes, gates and panels with our primary brands being Tarter and Priefert in addition to brush hogs which are mostly Battle Armor, a division of Bad Boy Mowers. We carry lawn and garden supplies including Bonnie plants and gardening seed in bulk for corn and beans and packets for the rest supported by gardening tools. We also have veterinary supplies, clothing including muck boots and Crazy Train clothing, electric fencing, and poultry equipment with Little Giant and Miller being the primary brands. Our horse supplies include tack and fly control as well as farrier supplies. For bees we have hives, feed, brood boxes including frames, protective clothing and gloves, various hive tools, and smoking supplies to calm the bees during harvesting. In the spring we sell chicks and rabbits and have a farmers market during the summer on Thursdays from 4 to 7 p.m. In December, we compete in the group wide Christmas tree contest by displaying a Christmas tree of any kind whether live or comprised of farming products such as salt blocks with customers voting to see who wins.” Philosophy and future: “The cooperative philosophy is to be community centered which not only explains why we tend to be in smaller towns like Elkins but also how we treat customers and things we do to strengthen the community feeling. This fall in an effort to nurture our community nature, we are going to have a big buck and big bear contest with prizes. Next spring we hope to add a new line of Bad Boy Mower implements such as rotary tillers, box blades and 4-foot brush hogs.”

Ozarks Farm & Neighbor • www.ozarksfn.com

OCTOBER 23, 2017

town &

country

in the field and in the office

Tough fall chores demand tougher equipment.

Travis Jackson

5055E UTILITY TRACTOR

Story and Photo By Terry Ropp

• MFWD • 9F/3R TSS transmission • Open station

Family: Wife, Georgia Jackson; sons Austin, 18, and Case, 10; and daughter

Abby, 5

5-YEAR

Hometown: Harrison, Ark.

POWERTRAIN WARRANTY†

In Town: “I have worked for FedEx for 18 years and started in the mailroom. Now

I am the manager of office services and enjoy working for this company because it provides opportunities for advancement and is a dependable household brand I am proud to be part of. My wife, Georgia, also works for FedEx and started in the mailroom as I did, but five years earlier. She is now an IT manager and travels extensively not only in the U.S. but overseas. We belong to the Harrison Oregon Flat Baptist Church in the Bergman area of Harrison and are proud members of the United Way.”

In the Country: “Our first family members settled in this area

after the Civil War as cattle farmers. Georgia and I have 38 acres here on which we raise show pigs and chickens, and share another acreage with my father, Thomas, on which we raise commercial Angus/Hereford cattle in a cow/calf operation. We have 40 mommas and two purebred bulls, one Angus and one Hereford. The bulls came here when they were young and were from other family members. Because they were raised together, female competition is only rarely disruptive. The bulls stay with the mommas so we have calves all year round. Other aspects of our country life include my being vice president of the Boone County Fair Board. I appreciate having the ability to help make the fair an opportunity for both the children and the community to learn and prosper rather than to trying to make this a moneymaking proposition. We use revenue for youth prize money and occasionally for fairground maintenance and improvement. Children need hands-on experience rather than video games. They need to be outdoors and active in order to be healthy, and involvement in agriculture and the fair provides those experiences. Georgia and I are also sponsors of both FFA and 4-H. We have provided t-shirts and other fundraising opportunities for FFA and volunteer our help to 4-H and not just because all our young family members belong.”

Future: “In the short term, I would like to see my children continue in their agricultural heritage and pass it on to their own children. All kids need responsibility. I want mine to continue to absorb more as they become capable of doing so because I want them to become supportive members of the community. Keeping children busy removes many of modern life’s challenges. Besides, it takes a family to farm. I love the process of raising cattle and enjoy keeping abreast of all of the new innovations whether that is in technology, herd development or land management. This love translates into a long term goal of having a cattle farm of my own to help continue my heritage and develop that drive and passion in my children and future grandchildren.” OCTOBER 23, 2017

SALE PRICE

MSRP

$30,474

$23,865

0% FOR 60 MONTHS²

Monthly Payment of $365/mo.

Request a quote or start a chat at

LarsonJD.com

WE’RE HERE FOR YOU.

ANDERSON.........................(417) 436-3333 FREISTATT .......................... (417) 235-7279 HARRISON ..........................(870) 741-4915

JEFFERSON CITY ..............(573) 455-2353 LEBANON............................(417) 532-2011 NIXA.................................... (417) 724-2226

ROGERSVILLE ....................(417) 881-2677 ROLLA................................. (573) 368-2011 WEST PLAINS.....................(417) 256-7127

(1)Offer ends 10/31/17. Subject to approved credit on John Deere Financial Revolving Plan, a service of John Deere Financial, f.s.b. For Consumer Use only. 10% down payment required. Monthly payments are based on an amount financed of $23,865 at 0% APR. The quoted payment of $365 per month will create an total of payments for the transaction of $23,865 and a repayment period of 60 months if only the minimum required payment is made. Taxes, AUTHORIZED DEALER estimated freight, setup and delivery charges could increase monthly payment. Other special rates and terms may be available, including installment financing. Available at participating dealers. (2)Offer ends 10/31/17. Subject to approved installment credit with John Deere Financial, for commercial use only. Some restrictions may apply; other special rates and terms may be available. Offer is available only on new equipment and only at participating United States dealers. See dealer for details. †All 5E Series Utility Tractors purchased new from an authorized John Deere Dealer come standard with a 5-year/2,000 hour (whichever comes first) Powertrain Warranty. See the Limited Warranty for New John Deere Turf & Utility Equipment at dealer for details. LFL4X40814OFM-4C

Come See Us at the Farm Ranch Expo October 27-28

BULK FEED

479-474-8414

Tire Center Van Buren, AR Car, Truck, or Tractor We’ve got you covered! Come see our selection of Hats by Greeley Hat Works at our Decatur store!

479-474-2111

30 Year Fence #145734 • 4pt • 5” •1320’ 65lbs • Bezinal® coated

Mena, Ar. Southwest Outdoor Center

Outside Sales Danny Brown

479-629-8837

www.todayscoop.com

Serving More Than 24,000 Readers Across Northwest Arkansas & Eastern Oklahoma

Christian Bokina

479-871-0071

market sales reports

bulls

(Week of 10/8/17 to 10/14/17) Ash Flat Livee Benton County Sale Barn - Siloam Springs Cattlemen’s Livestock Auction Cleburne County Livestock - Heber Springs County Line Sale - Ratcliff Decatur Livestock Auction

20.00-80.00 † Not Reported † 65.00-78.00*

62.00-85.00 † 66.00-85.00 † 65.00-83.50 † 65.00-99.00 † 68.00-80.00* † Not Reported 67.00-86.00 †

OKC West - El Reno Ouachita Livestock Auction Ozarks Regional Stockyard Stilwell Livestock Auction Tulsa Livestock Auction

69.00-85.50 † 69.50-88.00 † 73.00-85.00* 65.00-90.00 † 77.00-92.00*

Welch Stockyards

slaughter

100

cows

(Week of 10/8/17 to 10/14/17) Arkansas Cattle Auction

38.00-61.00 †

Ash Flat Live Benton County Sale Barn - Siloam Springs Cattlemen’s Livestock Auction Cleburne County Livestock Auction County Line Sale - Ratcliff Decatur Livestock Auction

25.00-62.50 † Not Reported † 47.00-68.00* 46.00-62.00 † 38.00-60.00 † 48.00-63.00* Not Reported*

Farmer’s & Ranchers - Vinita Farmers Livestock Fort Smith Stockyards I-40 Livestock - Ozark Joplin Regional Stockyards Mid-State Stockyards North Arkansas Livestock - Green Forest

35.00-62.50 † 39.00-66.00 † 42.00-64.50 † 43.00-68.50 † 4 40.00-62.00* Not Reported †

Steers, Med. & Lg. 1 300-400 lbs. 400-500 lbs. 500-600 lbs. 600-700 lbs. 700-800 lbs.

Bulls, Med. & Lg. 1 300-400 lbs. 400-500 lbs. 500-600 lbs. 600-700 lbs. 700-800 lbs.

Heifers, Med. & Lg. 1 300-400 lbs. 400-500 lbs. 500-600 lbs. 600-700 lbs. 700-800 lbs.

14 14

56.00-75.50*

Ark. Cattle Auction, LLC - Searcy 10/10/17 1,295

Ash Flat Livestock

dairy cattle

Norwood, Mo. • Producers Auction Yards

10/13/17

Receipts: 324 Springer Heifers Bred Seven to Nine Months: Approved Individual 1200.00, Medium Pair Jerseys 885.00-975.00, Individual Crossbred 900.00. Heifers Bred Four to Six Months: Approved 1050.00-1300.00, Crossbred 1000.00-1020.00, Medium 750.00-990.00, Common Pair 700.00. 120 Heifers Bred One to Three Months: Approved 1040.00-1140.00, Medium 800.00-1000.00, Pair Crossbred 980.00, Common Individual Crossbred 700.00. Open heifers: Approved 200-300 lbs Pkg 5 hd 325.00, 300-400 lbs 385.00-435.00, Individual Crossbred 380.00, 400-500 lbs Pkg 9 hd 500.00, Indivdual Jersey 535.00, 500-600 lbs Pair Crossbred 620.00, Pair 835 lbs 800.00. Medium 200-300 lbs Individual 210.00, Individual Crossbred 210.00, 300-400 lbs Individual 300.00, Crossbred 300.00-350.00, 400-500 lbs 410.00-470.00, Individual Crossbred 390.00, 500-600 lbs Individual 500.00, Crossbred 490.00-520.00, 700-800 lbs Individual 740.00. Fresh Milking Heifers and Cows: Approved Individual 1025.00, Individual Crossbred 1125.00, Medium 740.00-925.00, Crossbred 825.00-875.00, Common 475.00-660.00, Individual Jersey 410.00. Bred and Springer Cows: Approved 1000.00-1035.00, Medium 710.00-850.00, Individual Jersey 690.00, Common Individual 585.00. Baby Calves: Holstein Heifers Large 240.00-340.00, Small 75.00-110.00, Holstein Bulls 50.00-100.00, Jersey Heifers 95.00140.00, Jersey Bulls 30.00-75.00, Crossbred Heifers 150.00-230.00, Diamond, Mo. • TS Whites Sheep and Goat Sale 10/5/17 Crossbred Bulls 70.00-125.00, Beef Cross Heifers 150.00-240.00, Receipts: 1,301 Beef Cross Bulls 115.00-195.00. SHEEP: Feeder Lambs: Medium and Large 1-2 mostly hair 40-55 lbs Springfield, Mo. • Springfield Livestock Marketing Center 9/26/17 200.00-225.00. Medium and Large 2-3 22-59 lbs 165.00-195.00. Receipts: 1107 Slaughter Lambs: Wool: Prime 2-3 62-78 lbs 175.00-185.00; 82-125 Springer Heifers bred seven to nine months: Supreme 1300.00- lbs 130.00-155.00. Choice 1-3 70-74 lbs 145.00-165.00. 1550.00, ind Jersey 1425.00, ind crossbred 1400.00, Approved Hair: Choice and Prime 2-3 60-87 lbs 180.00-210.00; 80-105 lbs 1000.00-1285.00, crossbreds 1150.00-1275.00, Medium 635.00935.00, crossbreds 900.00-950.00, Common 550.00- 675.00, few

100

goats

155.00-170.00. Good 1-2 60-100 lbs 130.00-145.00. Replacement Ewes: Hair: Medium and Large 1-2 86-135 lbs 140.00170.00. Medium and Large 2-3 70-120 lbs 100.00-135.00. Wool: Few Large 1-2 100 lbs 105.00. Replacement Hair Rams: Fancy registered white Dorper ram 450.00 Per head. Medium and Large 1-2 75-115 lbs 135.00-140.00; 120-160 lbs 105.00-110.00. Replacement wool Ram: Large 1 145 lbs 170.00. Slaughter Hair Rams: Choice 1-2 115-240 lbs 70.00-95.00. GOATS: Feeder kids: Selection 1 30-39 lbs 200.00-225.00. Selection 2 25-38 lbs 170.00-195.00. Selection 3 24-40 lbs 130.00-165.00. Slaughter Kids: Selection 1 40-72 lbs 200.00-230.00; 64-120 lbs 170.00-195.00. Selection 2 40-75 lbs 170.00-195.00; 80-138 lbs 130.00-155.00. Selection 3 40-70 lbs 135.00-165.00. Replacement Does: Selection 1 90-150 lbs 140.00-165.00; 130.00200.00 Per head. Selection 2 63-120 lbs 100.00-135.00. Slaughter Does: Selection 1 120-180 lbs 80.00-95.00. Selection 3 55-140 lbs 50.00-90.00. Replacement Bucks: Registered Boer 235.00 Per Head. Selection 1 95-170 lbs 155.00-185.00. Slaughter Bucks: Selection 2 80-210 lbs 120.00-135.00. Selection 3 65-135 lbs 100.00-145.00.

Buffalo • Buffalo Livestock Market

Cattlemen’s Livestock*

10/13/17 1,203

Benton Co. - Siloam Springs -----------

County Line Sale Ratcliff 10/11/17 230

Decatur Livestock*

10/11/17 1507

Cleburne Co. - Heber Springs 10/9/17 346

Uneven

St-5 Higher

-----

Uneven

St-5 Higher

162.00-192.00 155.00-176.00 148.00-164.00 133.00-151.00 138.00-144.00

182.00-197.50 161.00-170.00 --------140.00-149.50

---------------------

146.00-176.00 145.00-165.00 138.00-163.00 138.00-161.50 135.00-155.75

----141.00-160.00 133.00-151.00 118.00-143.00 -----

--------150.00-158.00 ---------

---------------------

141.00-180.00 137.00-152.00 124.00-139.00 122.00-138.00 -----

---------------------

9/26/17

Receipts: 1180 SHEEP: Feeder Lambs: Hair lambs Medium and Large 1-2 35-49 lbs 215.00-230.00. Medium and Large 2-3 50-59 lbs 180.00-195.00. Slaughter wool lambs: Choice and Prime 2-3 62-63 lbs 180.00192.50; 70-105 lbs 140.00-160.00. Slaughter Hair Lambs: Choice and Prime 2-3 60-88 lbs 175.00190.00; 80-105 lbs 155.00-170.00; 125-130 lbs 130.00-147.50. Choice 1-3 60-85 lbs 150.00-172.50; 98-118 lbs 120.00-142.50. Good 1-2 105-111 lbs 112.50. Replacement Hair Ewes: Medium and Large 1-2 97-135 lbs 160.00185.00. Medium and Large 2-3 106-135 lbs 122.00-155.00. Medium and Large 3-4 103-125 lbs 105.00. Nice group of black faced wool ewes: Large 1-2 213 lbs 70.00. Slaughter wool Ewes: Cull and Utility 1-2 105-165 lbs 60.00-95.00. Replacement Hair Rams: Medium and Large 1-2 100-130 lbs 117.00-145.00. Replacement Wool Ram lamb: Large 1-2 black faced 150 lbs 187.50. Slaughter Hair Rams: Good 1-2 150-175 lbs 60.00-90.00; 193-245 lbs 51.00-55.00. GOATS: Feeder Kids: Selection 1 25-38 lbs 220.00-245.00. Selection 2 25-37 lbs 180.00-215.00. Selection 3 21-35 lbs 130.00-160.00. Slaughter Kids: Selection 1 40-85 lbs 220.00-235.00; 175-210 lbs 110.00-122.50. Selection 2 42-80 lbs 195.00-220.00. Selection 3 40-75 lbs 150.00-187.50.

stocker & feeder

120

127 5(3257('

50.00-67.00* 47.00-75.00 †

121( 5(3257('

10/15/17

5 Area (Tx-Ok, Ks, Neb, Ia, Colo) Live Basis Sales - Over 80% Choice Steers: 108.50-112.00; wtd. avg. price 110.97. Heifers: 110.00-112.00; wtd. avg. price 110.98. Dressed Basis Sales - Over 80% Choice Steers: 173.00-176.00; wtd. avg. price 174.95. Heifers: 175.00-175.00; wtd. avg. price 175.00.

sheep &

35.00-68.00 † 37.00-60.00 † 39.00-77.00 †

OKC West - El Reno Ouachita Livestock Ozarks Regional Stockyard Stilwell Livestock Auction Tulsa Livestock Auction Welch Stockyards

cattle

Midwest - High Plains Direct Slaughter Cattle

72.00-83.00 † 77.50 † 48.00-63.00* Not Reported*

Farmer’s & Ranchers - Vinita Farmers Livestock - Springdale Fort Smith Stockyards I-40 Livestock - Ozark Joplin Regional Stockyards Mid-State Stockyards North Arkansas Livestock - Green Forest

beef

65.00-77.00 †

Arkansas Cattle Auction

crossbreds 200.00-550.00. Heifers bred three to six months: Supreme 1285.00-1560.00, few Jerseys 1300.00-1360.00, ind crossbred 1300.00, Approved 1000.00-1275.00, ind Jersey 1000.00, crossbreds 1000.00-1200.00, Medium 750.00-975.00, crossbreds 725.00-975.00, Common 410.00-700.00, few crossbreds 700.00-710.00. Heifers bred one to three months: Approved 1100.00-1200.00, ind Jersey 1000.00, Medium few 760.00- 775.00, pkg 4 Jerseys 825.00, Common few 430.00- 675.00, few crossbreds 570.00625.00. Open Heifers: Approved: 210-298 lbs 240.00-380.00, pkg 5 Jerseys 264 lbs 560.00, crossbreds 220.00-360.00, 304-398 lbs 350.00-450.00, ind Jersey 345 lbs 640.00, crossbreds 360.00460.00, 410-495 lbs 450.00-630.00, Jerseys 800.00-810.00, crossbreds 520.00-760.00, 503-580 lbs 560.00-750.00, crossbreds 510.00-640.00, 610-670 lbs 570.00-760.00, pkg of 6 Jerseys 680 lbs 670.00, crossbreds 560.00-750.00, 708-785 lbs 750.00-800.00, pkg 6 at 708 lbs 940.00 Medium: 135-295 lbs crossbreds 170.00-210.00, 320-375 lbs crossbreds 270.00-310.00, 410-480 lbs ind 250.00, crossbreds 370.00-420.00, 505-585 lbs ind 340.00, few crossbreds 410.00450.00, 650-690 lbs ind 400.00, ind Jersey 550.00, few crossbreds 310.00-460.00, 720-780 lbs ind 550.00, ind Jersey 530.00. Replacement Cows: Fresh and Milking Cows: Supreme 1325.001625.00, crossbreds 1250.00-1425.00, Approved 1050.00-1275.00, ind Jersey 1225.00, few crossbreds 1050.00-1200.00, Medium 750.00-1000.00, ind Jersey 1000.00, Common 275.00- 600.00, ind crossbred 635.00. Springer Cows: Approved few 1000.00-1200.00, ind Jersey 1025.00, ind crossbred 1070.00, Medium 700.00-925.00, Common 485.00-675.00, Jerseys 520.00-660.00, crossbreds 250.00-600.00. Bred Cows: Approved 1000.00-1200.00, Medium 750.00-1125.00, few crossbreds 900.00-925.00, Common 420.00- 700.00, ind Jersey 550.00, crossbreds 585.00-750.00. Baby Calves: Holstein heifers 180.00-220.00, small 135.00-170.00, Holstein bulls 95.00-140.00, small 30.00-90.00, Jersey bulls several 45.00, Jersey heifers 140.00-160.00, crossbred heifers 120.00185.00, small 40.00-110.00, crossbred bulls 110.00-185.00, small 45.00-85.00, beef cross bulls 165.00-210.00.

Fort Smith Stockyards

10/10/17 742

Farmers Livestock Springdale 10/13/17 998

Uneven

-----

160.00-180.00 150.00-177.00 145.00-158.00 142.00-155.00 142.00

172.50 147.50-190.00 136.00-150.00 140.00-150.00 148.00

180.00-215.00 160.00-175.00 152.00-164.00 147.00-158.00 143.00-157.50

---------------------

----140.00-165.00 125.00-145.00 129.00-137.00 -----

--------130.00-140.00 129.00-135.00 -----

---------------------

135.00-156.00 128.00-148.00 122.00-146.50 118.00-143.50 118.00-134.00

140.00-157.00 125.00-149.00 125.00-136.00 127.00-138.30 127.00-132.00

135.00-150.00 134.00-149.00 130.00-138.00 128.00-138.50 -----

140.00-160.00 133.00-145.00 130.00-144.00 125.00-146.00 130.00-144.00

Nati

Che wee (+.0 Flui nati as co inta in th load for p milk Cen with stor but imp incr Nor regi to 1 Wes SPO BU 3.10

10/9/17 1,300

I-40 Livestock Ozark 10/12/17 1,125

Joplin Regional Stockyards 10/9/17 5,069

Uneven

3-4 Lower

St-4 Higher

---------------------

176.00-180.00 163.00-182.00 141.00-169.00 148.00-158.00 142.00-148.00

171.00-204.00 156.00-177.00 137.00-158.00 134.00-148.00 131.00-146.00

165.00-192.50 144.00-164.00 140.00-156.00 136.00-147.00 136.00-146.00

190.00 160.00-185.00 149.00-172.50 144.00-167.00 144.00-160.00

160 145 140 140 140

---------------------

----148.00-164.00 140.00-160.00 129.00-140.00 114.00-135.00

142.00-157.00 142.00-148.00 135.00-150.00 130.00-145.00 117.00-137.00

130.00-150.00 130.00-142.50 130.00-143.00 122.00-137.00 110.00-130.00

----162.00-182.00 142.00-146.00 136.00-143.00 123.00

160 140 122 118 110

---------------------

141.00-150.00 131.00-153.00 128.00-137.00 117.00-139.00 -----

144.00-158.00 132.00-173.00 127.00-142.00 124.00-133.00 123.00-127.00

145.00-165.00 131.00-153.00 123.00-138.50 122.00-135.00 121.00-133.00

160.00-173.00 142.00-174.00 140.00-165.00 138.00-160.50 139.50-146.00

140 135 127 122

USDA Reported * Independently Reported

Ozarks Farm & Neighbor • www.ozarksfn.com Ozarks Farm & Neighbor • www.ozarksfn.com

Rep tion Slau 55-1 Slau 57-1

prices

Farmer’s & Ranchers Vinita, Okla.* ---------

127 5(3257('

slaughter

OCTOBER 23, 2017

Mi Stoc

es reports

Medium and Large 1-2 97-135 lbs 160.002-3 106-135 lbs 122.00-155.00. Medium 05.00. wool ewes: Large 1-2 213 lbs 70.00. and Utility 1-2 105-165 lbs 60.00-95.00. Medium and Large 1-2 100-130 lbs

mb: Large 1-2 black faced 150 lbs 187.50. d 1-2 150-175 lbs 60.00-90.00; 193-245

ection 1 25-38 lbs 220.00-245.00. Selec.00. Selection 3 21-35 lbs 130.00-160.00. 1 40-85 lbs 220.00-235.00; 175-210 lbs 42-80 lbs 195.00-220.00. Selection 3 40-75

ices

Corn

Farmers Livestock - Springdale Fort Smith Stockyards I-40 Livestock - Ozark Joplin Regional Stockyards

9.73

9.55

9.74

9.43

4.91

4.76

5.54 4.76

4.90

4.61

3.15

3.39

0 Blyt

3.32

le hevil

Hele

Elain

3.30

eola

Osc

Little

Roc

155.36 Week of 9/17/17

Week of 9/17/17

153.35 145.72 144.36 142.81

148.40 125.92 126.46 137.75 128.31 133.37

144.97 151.60

131.08

161.22

145.34

159.21

143.10

* 156.35

148.86 134.07

142.69

130.24

160.37

2500

Uneven

St-4 Higher

St-2 Lower

St-1 Lower

-----

OCTOBER 23, 2017

127.08

139.35

1-8 Higher

140.00-171.00 135.00-149.00 127.00-142.00 122.00-133.00 -----

136.22

140.07

825.00-1750.00 †

2000

131.42

155.06

-----

160.00-173.00 142.00-174.00 140.00-165.00 138.00-160.50 139.50-146.00

149.61

140.84

Steady

5.00-165.00 1.00-153.00 3.00-138.50 2.00-135.00 1.00-133.00

163.77

10/9/17 596

160.00-184.00 140.00-168.00 122.00-142.00 118.00-134.00 110.00-122.00

145.37

145.00

Welch Stockyards*

----162.00-182.00 142.00-146.00 136.00-143.00 123.00

135.93 143.87

159.38

Tulsa Livestock Auction 10/9/17 3,272

0.00-150.00 0.00-142.50 0.00-143.00 2.00-137.00 0.00-130.00

135.74

163.98

Stilwell Livestock Auction* 10/11/17 746

---------------------

135.45 127.22

155.44

Ozarks Regional West Plains 10/10/17 4,419

160.00-190.00 145.00-175.00 140.00-158.00 140.00-154.00 140.00-152.00

133.13

148.22

Ouachita Livestock Ola, Ark. 10/13/17 573

St-4 Higher

146.04

2500

OKC West - El Reno, Okla. 10/11/17 6,871

-4 Lower

145.60

147.54 130.93

142.64

N. Ark. Livestock Green Forest ---------

Mid-State Stockyards*

165.88 143.14

pairs

1500

137.35 130.19

147.64

650.00-1450.00 †

1000

148.67 134.69

147.23

None Reported †

500

Ash Flat El Reno Ft. Smith Green Forest Heber Springs Joplin Ouachita Ozark Ratcliff Searcy Siloam Springs Springdale Tulsa West Plains

925.00 †

Welch Stockyards

July 17 Aug. 17 Sept. 17

heifers 550-600 LBS.

164.14

950.00-1310.00 * Mid-State Stockyard None Reported † North Arkansas Livestock - Green Forest OKC West - El Reno 1000.00-1250.00 † 950.00 † Ouachita Livestock Auction Ozarks Regional Stockyard 850.00-1425.00 † Stilwell Livestock Auction 1250.00-1610.00 * Tulsa Livestock Auction 1200.00-1550.00 †

Apr. 17 May 17 June 17

1400.00-1750.00 * Not Reported * 1150.00-1400.00 †

Decatur Livestock Auction Farmer’s & Ranchers - Vinita

Sorghum

9.72

2000

Ash Flat El Reno Ft. Smith Green Forest Heber Springs Joplin Ouachita Ozark Ratcliff Searcy Siloam Springs Springdale Tulsa West Plains

Arkansas Cattle Auction - Searcy 1000.00-1150.00 † Ash Flat Livestock 1060.00-1700.00 † Benton County Sale Barn - Siloam Springs Not Reported † Cattlemen’s Livestock 850.00-1675.00 * Cleburne County Livestock - Heber Springs None Reported † County Line Sale 700.00 †

Joplin Regional Stockyards 10/9/17 5,069 190.00 160.00-185.00 149.00-172.50 144.00-167.00 144.00-160.00

Soft Wheat

1500

Feb. 17 Mar. 17

steers 550-600 LBS.

(Week of 10/8/17 to 10/14/17)

Week Ended 10/17/17

Soybeans

1000

cow/calf

avg. grain prices

I-40 estock Ozark 0/12/17 1,125

5.00-192.50 4.00-164.00 0.00-156.00 6.00-147.00 6.00-146.00

500

Oct. 16 Nov. 16 Dec. 16 Jan. 17

Week of 9/24/17

air lambs Medium and Large 1-2 35-49 lbs d Large 2-3 50-59 lbs 180.00-195.00. oice and Prime 2-3 62-63 lbs 180.0060.00. oice and Prime 2-3 60-88 lbs 175.0070.00; 125-130 lbs 130.00-147.50. Choice ; 98-118 lbs 120.00-142.50. Good 1-2

10/6/17

Cheese: Barrels closed at $1.7450 and 40# blocks at $1.7600. The weekly average for barrels is $1.7190 (+.0180) and blocks, $1.7430 (+.0295). Fluid Milk: Milk availability is generally in good balance across the nation. Milk production in California and Arizona is trending higher as cooler weather builds into the states. In the Pacific Northwest, milk intakes are seasonally in balance, while strong milk output continues in the mountain states of Idaho, Utah and Colorado. A few surplus loads of milk from Idaho are finding their way into neighboring states for processing. Central region milk yields are slightly lower and surplus milk is becoming harder to find in the region. Available milk from the Central region and New Mexico continue to backfill processing needs within Southern milk sheds, refilling pipelines in the aftermath of the 0 storms last month. Florida milk shipments are returning to normal, but milk production has not fully rebounded. Industry contacts expect imported milk shipments will decline as Florida milk production increases amid more favorable weather. Milk volumes are flat in the Northeast and slightly lower in the Mid-Atlantic and Southeast regions. Cream multiples for various uses are steady in the East, 1.25 to 1.34, steady in the Midwest, 1.23 to 1.30, and slightly higher in the West, 1.06 to 1.28. SPOT PRICES OF CLASS II CREAM, $ PER POUND BUTTERFAT F.O.B. producing plants: Upper Midwest - $2.94223.1096.

$80

140.10

127.72

Week of 10/1/17

9/26/17

Ash Flat Livestock 600.00-1225.00 † Benton County Sale Barn - Siloam Springs Not Reported † Cattlemen’s Livestock 775.00-1400.00 * Cleburne County Livestock - Heber Springs 59.00-70.00 † Prices reported per cwt County Line Sale - Ratcliff 51.00-77.00 † Prices reported per cwt Decatur Livestock Auction 1000.00-1400.00* Farmer’s & Ranchers - Vinita Not Reported * Farmers Livestock 650.00-1150.00 † Fort Smith Stockyards 680.00-1425.00 † I-40 Livestock - Ozark 800.00-1125.00 † Joplin Regional 725.00-1425.00 † Mid-State Stockyard 700.00-1200.00 * North Arkansas Livestock - Green Forest Not Reported † OKC West - El Reno 775.00-1575.00 † Ouachita Livestock 600.00-750.00 † Ozarks Regional 625.00-1475.00 † 1250.00-1610.00 * Stilwell Livestock Auction Tulsa Livestock Auction 850.00-1275.00 † Welch Stockyards 900.00-1340.00 *

158.39 139.97 144.80 146.00

151.73 129.80 132.29 134.00 134.82

146.77

135.55

153.72 148.57

130.30

154.74

10/10/17 1,095

138.54 145.45

164.49

154.06

168.28

192.00-220.00 167.00-190.00 151.50-173.00 151.00-168.00 159.50-165.50

147.00-191.00 156.00-180.00 136.00-163.00 130.00-152.00 126.00-133.00

175.00-185.00 164.00-181.00 160.00-177.00 155.00-167.00 152.00-158.00

190.00-200.00 178.00-188.00 156.00-169.00 135.00-145.00 133.00-143.00

190.00-205.00 166.00-190.00 146.50-161.00 144.00-155.00 137.00-150.00

170.00-185.00 155.00-176.00 145.00-168.00 145.00-160.00 140.00-160.00

---------------------

180.00-192.00 167.50 -------------

138.00-148.00 127.00-141.00 110.00-139.00 108.00-132.00 113.00-122.00

160.00-171.00 144.00-167.00 145.00-155.00 ---------

189.00-199.00 175.00-185.00 150.00-160.00 125.00-135.00 122.00-132.00

160.00-175.00 145.00-177.00 136.00-152.00 124.00-143.50 120.00-128.50

155.00-175.00 145.00-166.00 140.00-161.00 135.00-150.00 120.00-130.00

---------------------

161.00-185.00 150.00-168.00 135.00-157.50 142.00-162.00 143.00-153.00

135.00-146.00 131.00-144.00 123.00-136.00 123.00-128.00 -----

162.00 144.00-153.00 141.00-152.00 140.00-154.00 138.00-146.00

155.00-165.00 150.00-160.00 136.00-146.00 125.00-135.00 117.00-127.00

157.00-171.00 151.50-165.00 134.00-149.00 119.50-138.00 125.50-135.00

140.00-155.00 140.00-154.00 137.00-148.00 140.00-153.00 135.00-149.00

142.71

131.32

** 149.33

Week of 10/8/17

Market

$120

55.00-93.00 † Prices reported per cwt

Arkansas Cattle Auction - Searcy

Week of 9/24/17

2 80-210 lbs 120.00-135.00. Selection 3

$160

Week of 10/1/17

tered Boer 235.00 Per Head. Selection 1

$200

reported per cwt (Week of 10/8/17 to 10/14/17) PricesPrices Prices reported reported per percwt cwt

dairy sales

National Dairy Market at a Glance

cows

550-600 lb. steers

12 Month Avg. -

$240

Week of 10/8/17

arge 1 145 lbs 170.00. ice 1-2 115-240 lbs 70.00-95.00. ction 1 30-39 lbs 200.00-225.00. Selection Selection 3 24-40 lbs 130.00-165.00. 40-72 lbs 200.00-230.00; 64-120 lbs 40-75 lbs 170.00-195.00; 80-138 lbs 40-70 lbs 135.00-165.00. on 1 90-150 lbs 140.00-165.00; 130.002 63-120 lbs 100.00-135.00. 1 120-180 lbs 80.00-95.00. Selection 3

replacement

Replacement Does: Group of nice young does 75 lbs 205.00. Selection 1 60-150 lbs 140.00-175.00. Slaughter Does: Selection 2 75-130 lbs 117.50- 150.00. Selection 3 55-140 lbs 70.00-95.00. Slaughter Bucks: Selection 2 100-210 lbs 100.00-117.50. Selection 3 57-160 lbs 85.00-95.00.

127 5(3257('

0-100 lbs 130.00-145.00. Medium and Large 1-2 86-135 lbs 140.002-3 70-120 lbs 100.00-135.00. s 105.00. ancy registered white Dorper ram 450.00 e 1-2 75-115 lbs 135.00-140.00; 120-160

USDA Reported * Independently Reported

157.58 142.74 145.74 144.73 152.22 153.72

133.38 135.55 135.82

166.06

144.52 225

Prices Based on Weighted Average for Steers and Heifers 550-600 lbs.

Serving More Across Northwest Arkansas & Eastern Oklahoma Serving MoreThan Than24,000 24,000Readers Readers Across Northwest Arkansas & Eastern Oklahoma

130.47

132.25

153.69

125 150 175 200 * No price reported in weight break **USDA Failed To Report *** No Sale

155.02 127.86

127.49

150.38

100

128.17

100 125 150 175 * No price reported in weight break **USDA Failed To Report *** No Sale

200

Prices Based on Weighted Average for Steers and Heifers 550-600 lbs.

15 15

Free Portable Corral Use for Customers • Hauling Available • Covered Pens

Decatur

Livestock Auction Inc. Serving the Tri-State Area

On Farm Appraisal Receiving: Mon.: 8 a.m.-10:00 p.m. Sale: Tues., 12 p.m. Owners: Chris Buffer 479-531-2962 Shawn Sperry 479-957-1387

479-752-8499 • Hwy. 59 South • Decatur, AR

HUMANE BLOODLESS DRUG FREE

meet your neighbors

Sold On Genetics By Terry Ropp

Leo and Nancy Anderson are firm believers in following programs laid out by the Angus Association Leo and Nancy Anderson raise commercial and registered Angus on 1,000 contiguous acres in rural Hindsville, Ark., with a herd totaling between 600 and 700 at any given time. As a boy, Leo was raised on 300 of the current 1,000 acres with the homestead being started by his grandfather, C.W. Bone, and later taken over and by his father and mother, Leo and Fern Bone-Anderson.

• Castration • Horn Removal • Treat Prolapses

protection and seem to promote health. Leo’s father also kept 100 goats whose browsing helped control more persistent issues like cockle burrs, thistles and brush while Leo, like most farmers today, fertilizes, sprays for weeds and brush hogs. “I like to use chicken litter when it’s available on a rotating basis, even though it brings in cockle burr and other weed seeds. The grass grows well and I Photo by Terry Ropp

DELAYED CASTRATION

CALL FOR A DISTRIBUTOR NEAR YOU.

Leo and Nancy Anderson have a large herd of Angus cattle, both registered and commercial, and sell bulls to many repeat customers.

EARLY CASTRATION

“THE CALLICRATE WEE BANDER IS WELL WORTH THE INVESTMENT.” JOHN BLEVINS, CALIFORNIA

800-858-5974

www.CallicrateBanders.com

“Everybody farms differently, and my rarely need to over seed,” Leo said. Building the large farm may have taken practices are much different than my father’s, partially through trial and error in dedication and time, but the couple clearly discovering what works best for us and loves what they do. They have one full-time partially because times have changed,” employee, Robby Burks, who lives with his family in the original family homestead. Leo said. Farm responsibilities are informal but Leo remembers his father sheltering cattle in a barn during winter nights. well defined. Leo is the general manager and focuses heavily on land, esThe cattle got so steamy and pecially since he “retired” from hot they seemed to get sick their lumber businesses with more often. Consequently, Hindsville, Ark. Pine Creek Lumber in HindsLeo keeps his cattle unconville and Anderson Lumber in fined with some open shelSiloam Springs, Ark., still family ters available in addition to businesses. The land is well watered little valleys and groves of by ponds and springs. trees that provide sufficient

Ozarks Farm & Neighbor • www.ozarksfn.com

OCTOBER 23, 2017

meet your neighbors

OCTOBER 23, 2017

ers, whether buying semen or breeding animals, have the latest EPD data available based upon actual calf statistics rather than original parent statistics. The Anderson’s run 250 registered and commercial Angus mommas bred naturally by 10 registered herd bulls. They have spring and fall calving for the commercial herd in order to have a better chance at hit-

ting higher markets as well as spring and fall calving for the registered herd in order to allow more maturation time before breeding. The Andersons prefer looking through Angus Association publications and studying the published EPDs for calving ease, milkability and yearling weight knowing EPD updates provide accuracy The Andersons sell pelvic measured bred

heifers and 18 to 24 month fully evaluated bulls through private treaty sales. Most buyers are repeat customers with 90 percent of their sales going to commercial breeders. “Customers return because they have liked our cattle before and appreciate that our terrain is similar to theirs,” Leo explained.

Plan now to attend!

21st Annual Heart of America Gelbvieh Association ®

Show-Me PluS Gelbvieh & balancer Sale OVER 100 FEMALES SELL Saturday, November 11, 2017 • 1 PM Springfield Livestock Marketing Center • Springfield, M0

Selling prime lots of registered Gelbvieh & Balancer® females. • Cow/Calf Pairs • 3 in 1 Packages • Bred Cows • Bred and Open Heifers

Bred Females

Selling an elite group of hand-picked Gelbvieh & Balancer® herdsire prospects.

Selling 40 Red & Black Gelbvieh crossed replacement females. Last year’s sale attracted buyers from 11 states! All lots selected on the farm by sale consultant from the top-end of each consignor’s herd.

Cow/Calf Pairs & 3 in 1s

To request a sale catalog: Visit MissouriGelbvieh.com

Robby spends much of his time in fence repair, equipment service and cattle delivery, as well as doing most of the feeding and tagging. Nancy and her close friend Loretta Lewis, affectionately labeled “two old dames” by Leo, administer shots and freeze brand, with Nancy also doing the bookwork and helping rake hay. Leo is a staunch supporter of the Angus Association. “They work hard at improving the breed and adjusting EPD data,” Leo said. In recent years the Angus Association identified four genetic defects caused by recessive mutations of a single cattle chromosome. The first defect is calf malformation characterized by crooked or twisted legs with joints often fixed in position and with the calves born dead or dying shortly after birth. The second typically results in calves born near term with the birth weight of approximately 30 pounds and volleyball to basketball sized heads. These calves have no recognizable brain or spinal canal tissue. The third defect is commonly called double muscling with calves having little covering fat and thin bones. The final issue is identified by calves with an abnormal, crouched posture similar to that of an elk or deer fawn and also with a taller and more slender frame than their unaffected siblings. In order to resolve the issues, the Angus Association required registered breeders to perform a DNA test of all breeding females. The Andersons complied through a blood sample taken from the ears of their cattle. Any female with any of the recessive genes can no longer be used for registered breeding, which will eliminate these issues because both the sire and the female must have the gene for the problem to occur with a 25 percent chance of having a dead or affected calf, a 50 percent chance of having a normal appearing calf that carries the mutation and a 25 percent chance of having a normal appearing, non-mutation carrying calf. “The Angus Association is progressive and holds itself to the highest possible standards,” Leo said. “This is simply one indication of their mission to produce the best breed of cattle.” The second association practice is to analyze registration papers and adjust EPD numbers according. The result is that buy-

Sale Consultant

JR Adcock • Bittersweet West • 785-547-6781 12 Top-end Bulls

This sale will be broadcast live on the Internet. Real time bidding and proxy bidding available.

www.dvauction.com

Open Heifers

Videos on select lots available on DVAuction.com week of sale. HAGA Sale Committee Co-Chairs: Austin Rash • 660-888-2536 Bob Hart • 816-225-8530 austinrashgelbvieh@gmail.com bhart@hartfarm.net

Serving More Than 24,000 Readers Across Northwest Arkansas & Eastern Oklahoma

meet your neighbors

A Farming Dream By Larry Burchfield

The Brewsters are dedicated to quality and sustainability at their Triangle Anchor Ranch

50x100x16

One side sheeted. One gable sheeted materials.

Following a lifelong dream to farm, newlyweds Billy and Susan Brewster moved to a rough timber farm in Wilburn, Ark., in 1975. Forty-two years, three children and 10 grandchildren later, they are still farming and still learning. Billy’s parents had purchased the 320-acre farm with the hopes of retiring there someday. With a combination of pioneer spirit and a desire to produce quality sustainable farm products ranging from registered Angus grass fed beef, fresh garden

the gene pool to isolate and eliminate the genetic defects. This is called adaptability and that’s what we practice. It has worked well for our farm.” On the Triangle Anchor Ranch the Brewsters currently have 50 head of registered Angus cows, seven dairy cows and 20 Nubian goats. As part of their sustainable agriculture commitment, the Brewsters use intense grazing practices for their cattle from start to finish. Pastures are laid off in 10-acre fields with 50-foot lanes that have gates Photo by Larry Burchfield

50x100x18 Roof only Materials

40x50x12

enclosed w/3” reinforced vinyl back insulation. 1- walk thru door, 2-10x10 openings, 26 ga. 40 year painted metal. All red iron frame. Materials.

Installation Available Call for pricing due to rising cost of steel. All American Steel Buildings Pole Barns • Commercial Buildings Agricultural Buildings • Shops Custom I-Beam Construction

Toll Free: 1-888-364-9527 Office: 417-671-8015 Fax: 417-671-8018 Hours: Mon-Fri 8am - 5pm 12760 St. Hwy 76 • Cassville, MO 65625 www.superiormetalsalesinc.com sales@superiormetalsalesinc.com

The Brewster’s Triangle Anchor Ranch, which is owned and operated by the family of Billy and Susan Brewster, has 50 grass fed only registered Angus, in addition to a dairy goat herd.

vegetables and honey, the Brewsters in all corners. The cattle are rotated every have garnered the respect of their peers two days. Fertilization is provided by a large in Cleburne County and were selected compost pile from their vegetable garden and dairy manure. A mobile chicken pen as the 2017 Farm Family of the Year. “We have not always done things by the is used to fertilize the garden in the off season. The goal is to keep all areas conventional book,” Billy excovered with vegetation. One plained. “Cattle have surlarge pond and several small vived for thousands of years ponds have been constructed without modern chemicals Wilburn, Ark. on the farm to catch runoff. and genetic modifications. I’m Field stones have been utilized to a firm believer that in order to make crossings through the runoff have a good line of adaptable areas to avoid rutting pastures. Seven animals you have to narrow Ozarks Farm & Neighbor • www.ozarksfn.com

year ago, Billy designed and constructed a solar well-house that takes cattle watering completely “off the grid”. The well is 200feet deep and runs off an AC/DC flexible voltage pump. Underground pipe carries the water to water tanks that sit on gravel with fabric underneath to eliminate erosion and mud pits around the tanks. The Brewsters have three grown children, two of which, Isaac and Carrie, live and work on the farm. Isaac and his wife Shirley have five children who are all active in working on the farm. They have a small herd of cattle, they have started raising bees, and their children are active in 4-H. Youngest daughter Carrie keeps busy managing the dairy cows, making cheese, working in the garden, and raising registered Bloodhound and pocket Beagles. Carrie is also the public relations guru for the farm. She manages the farm’s website, prints flyers to promote the farm’s beef sales. “My personal goal is a sustainable agriculture system,” said Billy. “One that provides the highest quality of food, food that is free of chemicals or genetic modification. I do it for my family. My kids and grandkids live on the farm and I want them to have the best quality food.” As busy as the farm life is for the Brewsters, they all find time to contribute to their community. Billy has been on the board of several community and church organizations. He started the Baptist Church of the Wildwood in Wilburn in 2008 and serves as pastor. Billy drives a bus for 4-H activities and organizes fundraisers for young people’s mission trips. Susan Brewster manages to stay busy in her own right. She substituted in the Wilburn School system before it consolidated with Heber Springs, taught at Cleburne County Christian school, operated a rabbitry of 100-plus New Zealand white does, participates in the Cleburne County Fair and helps with 4-H. Susan currently teaches in the Homeschool program at the Baptist Church of the Wildwood. OCTOBER 23, 2017

Four States Classic

CREAM OF THE CROP

Come See Us at the Arkansas/Oklahoma Ranch Expo October 27-28

Offering 700+ of the finest commercial replacement females in the Four States area. Featuring a special consignment from Arkansas Brahman Association members.

SATURDAY NOVEMBER 25 AT 1 PM Hope Livestock Facility Hope, Arkansas

GRAY BROTHERS EQUIPMENT FT. SMITH, AR 2900 Wheeler Ave.

POTEAU, OK 28377 US Hwy 59

479-646-7369 918-647-8000

www.kubota.com

*For complete warranty, safety and product information, consult your local Kubota dealer and the product operator’s manual. Power (HP/KW) and other specifications are based on various standards or recommended practices. Optional equipment may be shown. © Kubota Tractor Corporation, 2016

OCTOBER 23, 2017

Updates Made Daily

SEE PREVIEWS OF CONSIGNED CATTLE ON OUR WEBSITE

WWW.LBJCATTLE.COM

Serving More Than 24,000 Readers Across Northwest Arkansas & Eastern Oklahoma

LANNY FORD (870) 703-4345 LANNYFORD53@ GMAIL.COM BART EMERSON (870) 904-6671 BDEMERSON@SAUMAG.EDU JEFF MILAM (870) 703-0716 MILAMCATTLE@CENTURYTEL.NET

Owners Field Sam Chandler • 918-696-6029 Representatives Scottie Smith • 918-696-0793 Carl Quinton • 479-856-5500 Budge Herbert • 918-658-4781 Dax Tyler • 479-461-3678

Sale Every Monday

Fort Smith Stockyards youth in agriculture Serving Arkansas & Oklahoma rt Smit tomorrow’s ag leaders ckyar US Hwy 64 Moffet, Okla.

On Farm appraisals • Early drop off pens with 50 grass traps, water, and plenty of shade • Hauling available • Convenient Location • Family Owned & Operated

Barn

918-875-3131 Financing Available

HORSE BARNS

HAY BARNS

GARAGES

WORK SHOPS

“We Custom Build To Fit Your Needs” BradfordBuildings.com • 877-303-3737

Buy

Big, Save Big!

WITH STILLWATER MILLING COmpany’s

4 WAY COMMODITY MIX

159

00 per ton FOB

25%

Chopped Corn % Corn Gluten Pellets

More Than Just A Feed Store

(Call for Delivery Price)

25%

Wheat Midds Pellets % Soy Hull Pellets

1-800-364-0933 • 918-341-0933 721 W. 6th St. Claremore, OK www.stillwatermillingcompany.com Mon.-Fri. 8-6 • Sat. 8-5

Drake Price

Story and Photo By Terry Ropp

Age: 12 Parents: Shawn and Amanda Price Hometown: Charleston, Arkansas FFA Chapter: County Line Advisor: Ron Koch What is your project?

“I show different kinds of pigs: Durocs, Spot, Yorkshires and crosses. I buy my pigs in May when they weigh about 40 pounds and my project is to raise and show those pigs.”

How did you get started with agriculture organizations?

“Mom and Dad have some friends named Connor and Dalton Palarino who showed but are now in college. They got me and my sister Madison interested and she may be even more interested than I am.”

Favorite moments:

“Last year I won grand champion overall at the North Franklin County Fair. The reason I won was because we got a really good pig that the owner was going to keep for breeding. Fortunately for me, the night before we wanted to buy the pig he decided he was going to sell him. The pig was sound on his feet and had no hump on his back. When I showed him I made a point of walking with his head up. I also won the service Skillathon which tests general knowledge of the pig world including breeds, meat cuts, tools, feed etc. This year I had a Duroc I never could break to walk which is not all that surprising since we buy meat pigs that we sell after the showing season.

What do you do to help out on the farm?

“I love sorting cows on my Quarter Horse, Dunny, and also sort cows with my dad during rodeo season for roping competitions. When Dad’s gone Mom drives me over to feed the cows, and I always help with haying. During pig raising and showing season, I feed the pigs twice a day and walk them at night. I am also responsible for washing the pigs once a week. My dad raises dogs and I water and feed them too.

What is the most important thing you have learned through belonging to 4-H and now FFA? “The most important thing I have learned so far is you need to take care of the animals first. You need to give them the same kind of care you want somebody to give you.”

What are your future plans?

“I’ve got time to make up my mind but right now I want to be a horseshoer or work in a feedlot because you get to ride horses and be with cattle. I really like horses and cattle.”

What are your favorite things to do?

“One of my favorite things to is going hunting and fishing with my dad. We hunt for dove, turkey, deer, ducks and geese as well as hunting hogs with dogs. I also like fishing for crappie on the riverbanks. I love showdeos where I compete in flags, poles, barrels, keyhole, goat tying, barrels and pickup.”

Ozarks Farm & Neighbor • www.ozarksfn.com

OCTOBER 23, 2017

the ofn

ag-visors

Advice from

Frances Wants to Farm

the professionals

Women have a few traits that will help to make them successful in farming: • Women have no problem asking for directions or help. • We come out of the cradle ready to make friends and network – a trait that is irreplaceable in a new farmer. • Women are natural managers and multitaskers By Kathy Daily • Women are more apt to start small and only grow the operation after they have mastered the current level. ’ve been in agricultural lending for 28 years, and rarely do I • Women like change and are more apt to try niches have a farmer tell me that his daughter wants to take over the • As a third party observer, I can tell you that it is easier for the female farm when he retires. Honestly, I don’t think it even occurs to to make tough decisions on the farm. Contrary to popular belief, men most farmers to even ask their daughters if they are interested. Kathy Daily is the on the farm get emotionally invested and have a tougher time letting go I have seen quite a few daughters and son-in-law’s take over Senior Vice President of both material things and the process of doing the work. I think this is the farm, but not too many daughters on their own. of First Financial Bank’s a direct correlation to the fact that it is typically the male’s family farm I often wonder why that’s the case? Is it because women think it’s Farm and Ranch Diviand not the female’s, so obviously, he would have a greater attachment. too hard? We know that can’t be the case, because it certainly can’t sion. She has been an • Women are typically more cautious than men, which would sugbe harder than giving birth. Maybe feminism just hasn’t hit the farm agricultural lender for gest that they would educate themselves more before taking a leap. yet. Honestly, I think both genders have traditionally seen women over 25 years. The USDA classifies women farmers as socially disadvantaged due in the supporting role on the farm. The man in the household usuto the small number of farms operated by women. USDA’s Farm ally takes care of the planting, harvesting, livestock handling, etc., while the female typically takes care of the books, pays bills, and runs errands for the Service Agency has a loan program specifically designed to assist farmers that fit the farm. However, like everything else in life, change in inevitable. From 1978 to 2007, socially disadvantaged classification. They have preferred access to loan funds both farms operated by women tripled in numbers. As of 2007, approximately 15 percent on a direct basis and as guaranteed loans through participating agricultural banks. For all of the ladies out there who want to be the next “Frances Farmer,” my mesof all farms in the U.S. were operated by women. Had I been able to find more recent sage to you is that it is possible. And chances are, you’ll be successful. information, I believe that number has continued to increase over the last 10 years.

SUPPORTING YOUNG FARMERS Young farmers are vital to the economic health of our rural communities and because of that Arvest helps assist young farmers in entering and remaining in the farming profession. We are proud to support our local FFA chapters, 4H clubs and county fair. To learn more about our financing options, contact us today.

arvest.com/agloans

Member FDIC OCTOBER 23, 2017

Serving More Than 24,000 Readers Across Northwest Arkansas & Eastern Oklahoma

farm

help

Making farming

a little easier

Marketing Directly to Consumers By Kristyn Richner

Producers are choosing to cut out the middle man and market their products themselves Consumers have shown an increasing amount of interest in where their food comes from, requiring agriculturalists to become more involved in educating them. Many farmers have begun to utilize social media outlets, blog posts, etc., as tools that help marketing their local agriculture products. When it comes to marketing agriculture commodities, is direct marketing to the consumer the best option in today’s world? Marketing products directly to the consumer can empower an operation and add significant value. According to the Agriculture Marketing Resource Center, marketing directly to the consumer requires three different things. First, a producer must make a direct connection with the consumer. This can be accomplished through different settings; however, many growers and producers turn to their local farmers market. In recent years farmers markets have grown increasingly popular,

what do you say? What is your marketing plan for livestock and or farm products?

mainly due to desire of the consumer to learn where their food comes from. Direct contact cultivates loyalty between consumer and producer, usually resulting in returning business. They also require essentially no overhead from the producer, unlike a storefront, and they don’t require a mandatory sales volume. A farmer is allowed to bring however much product they are able to and sell whatever they are capable of. This is a huge advantage. With the exception of transport and a small fee, farmers markets are a great direct marketing source for local producers. The next step in successful direct marketing is determining consumer wants and needs. The majority of consumers have an idea of what is important to them when shopping for produce, meat and many other products. Consumers have more control now than they ever had regarding what they’re putting into their bodies and they are now asking more questions to agriculturalists. Direct

“The marketing plan for the stockers is to sell the finished cattle to the highest bidding packer.” Dennis Schwerin Benton County, Ark.

contact with the producer builds strong rapport, even if it requires them to pay a little bit more for what they deem is a quality product. Not only can direct marketing empower the producer, but also the consumer. Take “u-pick” operations for example. Many growers utilize these operations for products like strawberries, corn, blackberries and many more. Not only does the consumer get to literally hand-pick what they want, but they also help maintain the fields and relieve some work from the producer. The final recommendation from the Agriculture Marketing Resource Center is offering products that meet the needs of the consumer. There are advantages to local marketing for the producer. Not only is there an opportunity to find a niche market, the opportunity to sell product for a higher price, but there is also the opportunity to eliminate the middle man. Is this the best tactic? Discussions with ranchers indicates

“I buy calves at 200 to 300 pounds and sell them from 400 to 800 pounds. When you buy that small, you can wait until you can make money.”

that they believe direct marketing is the best tactic for their operations. “We don’t always take our calves to the sale barn if we can make our own contact with a buyer and work out an agreement, but that fluctuates from yearto-year,” said commercial Angus ranch owner Melissa Ogden. Direct marketing can also give true ownership of a product and give ranchers the opportunity to educate the public. Former agriculture education instructor, Christy Langston of Mount Vernon, Mo., says “I think direct marketing is in the future of our farm. We currently have bees and I would like to direct market honey.” All in all, there may be some threats and obstacles with direct marketing, including: developing a customer base, ensuring all regulations and guidelines are met, and the risk involved with working directly with the consumer; however, the positives seem to be more prevalent amongst producers.

“Anything that is not of breeding quality is culled and sent to the sale barn. We have a small registered Charolais operation and sell by word-of-mouth.”

Matthew Hale Washington County, Ark.

Ozarks Farm & Neighbor • www.ozarksfn.com

Derwin Martin Boone County, Ark.

“We are a birth to market commercial operation, and our marketing plan is very simple. We sell through US Premium Beef because that is where we get the best price.” Jim Moore Franklin County, Ark. OCTOBER 23, 2017

OCTOBER 23, 2017

Serving More Than 24,000 Readers Across Northwest Arkansas & Eastern Oklahoma

Benton County Sale Barn, Inc. farm help

Over 25 Years of Serving the Tri-State Area

Great Service, Low Rates!

Sale Every Thursday

12 p.m.

aCovered Pens aEasy Unloading a Cattle Received Wednesday & Thursday a Comfortable Seating with Good Views of Sales Arena aHauling Available

Listen Friday a.m. KURM 790 Sale Barn Report!

Business Manager : Cody Vaughn 479-790-3432 Office Manager: Cammy Whorton 479-524-2371 ext. 1 Field Representatives: Joe Simpson 918-207-7123 Travis Snyder 918-575-1133 Kevin Ruddick 479-790-9272 Cary Bartholomew 479-409-0133 Mitch Bartholomew 479-263-9302 Doug Isaacs 918-696-1558

3870 Highway 412 East, Siloam Springs, AR • 479-524-2371 www.bentoncountysalebarn.com

OUR 65th YEAR The New Rhino Flex-Wing has been Unleashed!

Our Flex-Wing cutters are designed for perfomance, reliabilty and value. With seven models to choose from and 50 years experience, we know how to make them durable enough for any use.

Blade Pan Carrier

Flex Wing Gearbox

Features & Benefits:

• Unique blade pan carrier - strong and durable stump jumper (patent pending) • New gearbox design - more torque with the same horsepower • Pivot hitch - unique locking clevis device for ease of hooking up • Smooth dome deck - less clutter, easy to clean with larger cutting chamber • Independent suspension - simple, no moving parts • Safety cover - quick access for easy maintenance

Hwy. 69 South, Pryor, OK • 918-825-2044 www.chuppimplementcompany.com See our Ad in Names & Numbers

Managing the Mud By Klaire Howerton

Muddy conditions in pastures and feeding areas can be an additional hurdle in the winter months Everyone knows it – winter is coming. That means buying extra feed, doing chores in bulky coveralls, breaking ice on water troughs, and dealing with mud. While producers might hope mud problems can be reserved for rainy spring seasons, the sad truth is winter mud is just as sure as the temperature change. The best defense farmers have against cold, wet mud that causes many livestock health and hygiene problems is management.

Move Regularly Many producers frequently move cattle to new ground during the warmer months when pasture growth is abundant, but once the grass growth slows or stops, this management practice can fall by the wayside. Eldon Cole, livestock specialist with the University of Missouri-Extension, urges producers to keep the cattle moving year-round. “The mud issue requires constant management. This involves moving cattle to as well of a drained area as you can find,” he said. “We’re thankful for rocks at certain times of the year, and hills,” he went on to say since both of these geographical components of the Ozarks can help keep mud from accumulating. It’s also important to move your feeders, not just your stock. “Move feeding locations so bale rings do not get mud accumulation around them,” advised Cole.

Provide Bedding A well-bedded area offers cattle an attractive place to lay and rest, and provides a

Ozarks Farm & Neighbor • www.ozarksfn.com

barrier against mud, as opposed to housing cattle on bare dirt. This is especially important for younger calves. “Provide creep areas for young calves so they can rest in a dry-bedded area. A low electric fence wire may provide a nice dry, or at least a dryer area in which the calves can loaf. Placing straw or stalks in it will attract them to it,” suggested Cole. Planning ahead earlier in the year and putting in some type of drainage material in your housing areas so you can put bedding on top of it is a useful mud management strategy. “Strategically placed crushed rock, gravel or limestone helps. Building a mound and capping it with limestone is helpful if the area is very flat,” Cole said.

Watch Your Numbers Even the best mud management plans are useless if winter cattle housing areas are overstocked. Too many animals in a small space will lead to accumulation of manure, urine and mud. Without enough space and comfortable, dry places to bed down, cattle will become stressed and unhealthy, which leads to reduced performance and potential loss of income. “Don’t crowd the livestock into too small an area for an extended period of time. Performance of growing cattle in mud is reduced if they don’t have a dry place to lie down and they have to wade through mud that’s over hoof deep,” cautioned Cole. Winter mud doesn’t have to be an issue on your farm, as long as you are dedicated to managing your herd in such a way that it reduces, or even eliminates, mud problems. OCTOBER 23, 2017

farm help Quality Feeds and Suplements

Keeping Up with Colostrum

Farmers Coop can help you maintain weight gains made this summer. Ask one of our Farmers Coop professionals to help you with your livestock feeding program.

By Klaire Howerton

Colostrum will help insure that a newborn has the right start to life Colostrum, by definition, is milk secreted for a few days after childbirth and characterized by high protein and antibody content.” If you are a livestock producer, you know that first drink of momma’s milk is the most important, because of the colostrum. But just why is it so important to newborns? What happens if a newborn doesn’t get colostrum? And in the event that you lose a mother during the birthing process, what can you do to ensure that the baby still gets colostrum? Colostrum is what helps newborn animals build their immune system. “Colostrum is critical to survival of the newborn calf,” said Dr. Tom Troxel, animal science professor at the University of Arkansas. “The immune system of newborn calves is not completely developed. Consequently, the antibodies and immunoglobulins in colostrum are a substantial component of the immune protection in newborn calves. Calves should receive 5 to 6 percent of their body weight as colostrum within six hours and again within the subsequent six hours.” As a producer, how can you make sure your new additions have received colostrum? Be prepared for long, sleepless shifts during calving/kidding/lambing/farrowing season – because you have to be there. “We attend all births and bottle feed colostrum within the first few hours so we know that each kid gets enough,” Lesley Million of Terrell Creek Farm said of her dairy goat herd. Newborn livestock not getting enough colostrum in the first 24 hours of life is pretty much a death sentence – without it, they generally don’t survive. The timing of the colostrum delivery is critical, especially if you find yourself in a bottlefeeding situation. OCTOBER 23, 2017

“The antibodies found in colostrum are absorbed whole…through the lining of the stomach. However, the efficiency with which a newborn can absorb these antibodies declines within just one hour after birth. The ability to absorb antibodies drastically decreases after 12 hours and is essentially gone by 24 hours of age. Therefore, if a newborn doesn’t get colostrum within the first 24 hours of birth, its chances of survival are very slim,” Mike Metzger with the Michigan State University Extension has said. In the event that a mother cannot provide colostrum for her newborn (death, udder problems, refusing to take the baby, etc.), there are other methods of colostrum delivery. “We use powdered cow colostrum or heat-treated colostrum from negative does for Caprine Arthritic Encephalitis prevention,” Million said. She added, “we do not use colostrum substitute, only true colostrum.” Having preparations made will make this type of situation smoother and less stressful for all parties. “Planning ahead in these situations is critical. Freeze extra colostrum from several healthy older animals (colostrum quality is better in older animals than first timers) to have it on hand,” Metzger said. “It is important to thaw only the amount of colostrum needed (once thawed you cannot refreeze), thus it is best to freeze colostrum in small quantities.” When birthing season begins on your farm, keep an eye on your critters and colostrum in your freezer – hopefully, you won’t need to use it, but if you do you can save a life.

Coweta, OK 918-486-5322

Stilwell, OK 918-696-3191

www.farmerscoop.biz

Tahlequah, OK 918-456-0557

Farm & Ranch Report

Help us welcome our newest Ag Expert

Jamie Bellis Johansen! Jamie has been a part of the local agriculture community for all of her life. She now travels the country reporting on the world of agribusiness, animal agriculture, & precision technology.

Serving More Than 24,000 Readers Across Northwest Arkansas & Eastern Oklahoma

Three Years Running

First Place General Excellence Newspaper Three years in a row at the national Ag Media Summit

www.ozarksfn.com

1-866-532-1960

www.facebook.com/ozarksfarm

ozarks’ farm

calendar

October 2017 26 Pesticide Applicator Training – 6 p.m. – Fulton County Fairgrounds, Salem, Ark. – 870-895-3301 26 Pesticide Applicator Training – Cornerstone Bank, Berryville, Ark. – 870-423-2958 27 Beekeeping Workshop – North Franklin County Extension Office, Ozark, Ark. – 479-209-2418 text or 479-667-3720 27-28 Arkansas Oklahoma Farm & Ranch Expo – Kay Rodgers Park, Fort Smith, Ark. – 479-452-0681 30 Winter Feed Meeting – call Carroll County Extension Office for more information 870-423-2958 31 BANGS Vaccination – call North Franklin County Extension Office to schedule 479-667-3720 November 2017 3 AFGC Fall Forage Conference and Forage Tour – Pauline Whitaker Arena, Fayetteville, Ark. – 479-474-5286 3 Cattle Winter Feed Workshop – call Pope County Extension Office for more information 479-968-7098 7,9 Estate Planning – 6 p.m. – Crawford County Extension Office, Van Buren, Ark. – 479-474-5286 9 Backyard Poultry Workshop – 5:30 p.m. – call the Fulton County Extension Office for more information 870-895-3301 11 4-H Banquet – 6 p.m. – Carroll Electric Building, Jasper, Ark. – 870-446-2240 14 Pesticide Applicator Training – 6 p.m. – Cornerstone Bank, Berryville, Ark. – 870-423-2958 14-16 2017 National Value Added Agriculture Conference – Wyndham Riverfront Hotel, Little Rock, Ark. – 1-866-657-4458 or 501-907-4823 for Hotel reservations – 501-671-2175 or rrainey@uaex.edu for more information – register by Oct. 24

ozarks’

auction block

October 2017 24 Three Forks Ranch Angus Bull Sale – Fort Gibson, Okla. – 918-541-0418 27 Spur Ranch Fall Sale – at the Ranch, Vinita, Okla. – 918-633-2580 28 Flying H Genetics Bull Sale – at the Ranch, Butler, Mo. – 303-842-9071 28 Mead Farms PT Bull Sale – at the Farm, Versailles, Mo. – 573-216-0210 28 Maple Oaks Red Angus Bull & Female Sale – Eldon, Mo. – 314-630-0332 28 Plyler & Sons Annual Charolais Bull Sale – Magnolia, Ark. – 870-703-1394 28 East Central Angus Association Fall Sale – Cuba, Mo. – 314-393-2885 28 Nipp Charolais Fall Bull Sale – at the Ranch, Overbrook, Okla. – 979-229-4472 28 McBee Cattle Company Braunvieh Selection Day Sale – at the Ranch, Fayette, Mo. – 573-228-2517 29 Lacy’s Red Angus Bull & Female Sale – Drexel, Mo. – 913-909-1912 29 P Bar S Ranch Proof of Progress Limouisin, Lim-Flex, Red Angus Sale – at the Ranch, Sand Springs, Okla. – 613-330-2735 29 Baker Angus Fall Production Sale – at the Farm, Butler, Mo. – 660-679-4403 29 4 Brands Gathering Annual Production Sale – Paragould, Ark. – 870-335-6259 30 SW Missouri Performance Tested Bull Sale – Springfield Livestock Marketing Center, Springfield, Mo. – 417-345-8330 31 B&D Herefords & Beran Brothers Angus Fall Bull Sale – Claflin, Kan. – 620-786-9703 November 2017 3-4 GENETRUST at Chimney Rock Cattle Company – Concord, Ark. – 870-834-1976 4 Wies Limousin & Friends Sale – at the Farm, Wellsville, Mo. – 613-330-2735 4 Pitts Angus Farm Annual Bull Sale – at the farm, Hermitage, Mo. – 417-399-3131 4 New Day Genetics Production Sale – Osceola, Mo. – 660-492-2777 4 B/F Cattle Company Balancer Bull Sale – Butler, Mo. – 660-492-2808 4 Harriman Santa Fe PBG Fall Bull Sale – Windsor Livestock Market, Windsor, Mo. – 660-492-2504 11 Smith Registered Angus Ranch Production Sale – at the Ranch, Berryville, Ark. – 870-423-4666 11 Four State Shorthorn Association Fall Sale – White’s Equine Center, Diamond, Mo. – 816-465-0777 11 Brown Land & Cattle Company Limousin Sale – at the Farm, Diamond, Mo. – 613-330-2735 11 Oklahoma Charolais Bull Sale – Cross Livestock Auction, Checotah, Okla. – 979-229-4472 11 HAGA Show-Me Gelbvieh Sale – Springfield Livestock Marketing Center, Springfield, Mo – 816-225-8530 12 Linhart Limousin Fall Harvest Annual Sale – at the Farm, Leon, Iowa – 613-330-2735 12 Oklahoma Charolais Bull Sale – Cross Livestock Auction, Checotah, Okla. –979-229-4472 17 Show-Me Select Heifer Sale – Joplin Regional Stock Yards, Carthage, Mo.– 417-466-3102 18 Seedstock Plus Fall Bull & Female Sale – Kingsville Livestock Market, Kingsville, Mo. – 877-486-1160 18 Sydenstricker Genetics Angus Sale – at the Farm, Mexico, Mo. – 573-473-9202 18 NE Ark Angus Assoc. Fall Sale – Charlotte, Ark. – 662-837-1776 18 Show Me Classic Polled Hereford Sale – Windsor Livestock Market, Windsor, Mo. – 660-527-3507 Ozarks Farm & Neighbor • www.ozarksfn.com

OCTOBER 23, 2017

Cattlemen’s Seedstock Directory

Angus 44 Farms - 501-940-0299 www.rosebudfeeders.com Bell Rule Genetics - Adair, Okla. 918-698-2993 - 536-299-7609 www.bellrule.com Jac’s Ranch - Bentonville, Ark. 479-273-3030 Windy Acres Cattle - Rose Bud, Ark. - 501-412-4939 Balancers Bob Harriman Genetics - Montrose, Mo. - 660-492-2504 Hodges Ranch - Omaha, Ark. 870-426-4469 - 870-704-9450 Martin Cattle Company Judsonia, Ark. 501-278-7614 Brangus 4G Brangus - Gravette, Ark. 479-640-0282 Hatfield Brangus - Bentonville, Ark. - 479-273-3921 479-531-2605 Rose Bud Feeders - 501-940-0299 - www.rosebudfeeders.com TRO-GIN Brangus Ranch Booneville, Ark. 479-675-4420 Charolais Rose Bud Feeders - 501-940-0299 - www.rosebudfeeders.com Gelbvieh Hodges Ranch - Omaha, Ark. 870-426-4469 - 870-704-9450 Martin Cattle Company Judsonia, Ark. - 501-278-7614 Triple D Farms Mountain Home, Ark. 870-481-5603 Herefords Allen Moss Herefords - Vici, Okla. 580-922-4911 - 580-334-7842 - mossherefords.com Red Angus Cooper Ranch - Romance, Ark. 501-556-5263 Sim Angus Bob Harriman Genetics Montrose, Mo. - 660-492-2504 Simmental Lazy U Ranch - Haskell, Okla. 918-693-9420

Livestock - Cattle

Who Are Primarily Livestock Producers, By Placing Your Ad In the Purebred Corral, Call Today!

532-1960

1-866-

Excellent Genetics & EPDs

Vestlane Farms 417-253-2271 417-399-1430

10/23/17

Registered Brangus Bulls $2,000 Heifers $1,250

DISCOUNTS for VETERANS

Gentle, Top Quality, Delivery Available

www.Horseheadranch.net

918-695-2357

Fall Angus Sale

November 18, 2017 • Noon Heavy Duty Spike Hay Beds

Batesville Stockyard

Charlotte, AR

East of Batesville on Hwy. 26 Celebrating 51st Sale with the Largest Number

Call for Price!

211 Tremendous Sale Manager, Auctioneer Angus Lots JARVENE SHACKELFORD, 67 Work Improvement AR Li.#573 Northeast Arkansas Angus Bulls (662)837-1776 Angus Association 144 Outstanding alb@auction.com www.neaaa.org Angus Female Lots

Atlas Steel Now Carries

With Beds In Stock

View catalog at www.alb.auction.com

650 ESH RD. • VINITA, OK atlassteelproducts.com

877-289-7835 / 918-256-6232

Poultry Litter Fertilizer

10/23/17

Application Service Available • Application Rate 1-2 Tons Per Acre • GPS Guidance

1/15/18

USED TRACTORS

Machinery

Green Forest, AR hostetlerlitter@emypeople.net

• ‘12 McCormick CX110, cab, 4 WD, w/Idr., 939 hrs......$39,999

RECENT TRADE-INs

Since 1986 No Sunday Calls “Get More Out of Your Pasture”

• JD 2850, 2 WD..............$9,500 • ‘00 TS100 NH, 2 WD, cab, w/ Idr. ................................$27,500

Louis Hostetler 870-438-4209 Cell: 870-423-8083

• ‘12 Deutz Fahr Agro Plus 77.... ......................................$17,500

2015 NH T4.105, 2WD, Cab, H & A, 12x12 Transmission With Power Shuttle, New Holland 640TL Loader, Super Nice Low Hour One Owner Unit,.....$42,500

• ‘99 JD 466, net/twine...$7,999 • ‘11 NH BR7090, net/twine ....

Saturday, Nov. 11 • Noon

.................................. $19,999 TFN

• ‘11 NH 7070, net..... $21,999 • ‘08 NH 7070, net..... $19,999

2014 NH T4.115, Cab, H & A, 12 x 12 Transmission With Power Shuttle, 2 Rear Hydraulic Remotes, New Holland 665TL Loader ....................... $48,500

USED HAY TOOLS • ‘14 Frontier DM1270, 3 pt. disc mower ......................... $5,999 • ‘12 Krone EC320, 3 pt. mower • 348 JD sq. baler ......... $9,995 • ‘10 NH BR7060, net .. $16,500

MISCELLANEOUS • ‘17 Shaver HD-10 post drivers . .................................... $3,350 • ‘17 Danuser SM40 w/grapple .. .................................... $4,999 • ‘17 Danuser T3 drivers ............ .................................... $1,750

2016 KUBOTA L4701D, MFWD, 8 x 8 Transmission With Synchro Shuttle, 1 Rear Hydraulic Remote, Kubota L765 Loader ................................... $22,000

Williams Tractor

2501 Shiloh Dr. • Fayetteville, Ark.

479-442-8284

www.williamstractor.com

OUR 65th YEAR

Hwy. 69 South Pryor, Oklahoma 918-825-2044 chuppimplement company.com

TS White’s Equine Center • Diamond, Mo.

Vets

.................................... $8,499

2011 NH T4030, Cab, A/C, 16 x 16 Transmission With Mechanical Shuttle, MFWD, Brand New New Holland 815TL Loader ..........$29,500

Hostetler Litter Service

Four State Shorthorn Sale

ROUND & SQUARE BALES

• ‘13 NH BR7070, net...$21,999

10/23/17

OCTOBER 23, 2017

Sale Dedicated In Loving Memory of Founding Member Mr. Al DeClerk 12/12/39-9/19/17

Machinery

Black Simmental & SimAngus Bulls For Sale

Reach More Than

24,000 Readers

Machinery

Country Veterinary Service Tim E. O’Neill, DVM

Selling :

Bulls Bred Cows Bred Heifearsnd Pairs For More Information: Show Heife rs Alden Auction Steer Prosp ects 816-465-0777 Hamilton, MO • ralden@ gallatin.k12.mo.us

10/23/17

479-267-2685

Farmington, AR countryveterinaryserviceinc.com

26 years of serving both farm and family.

Subscribe Today!

Sell Your Farm Equipment

I am enclosing: ❏ $17.00 - 1 Year ❏ $30.50 - 2 Years ❏ $43.00 - 3 Years ❏ I am now receiving the paper ❏ I do not receive the paper now

with a classified ad for as low as $13.18 per issue! Call today for details!

Add $7 per year for orders outside AR, OK, MO NAME __________________________________ PHONE ______________ EMAIL ____________________________________________________ ADDRESS ____________________________________________________ CITY ____________________ STATE ______ ZIP ____________________

866-532-1960

10/23/17

Serving More Than 24,000 Readers Across Northwest Arkansas & Eastern Oklahoma

Please mail this form & your check to: PO Box 6, Prairie Grove, AR 72753

THE TRUCK SPECIALISTS! We know what you want ... Big Selection + Low Prices!

We’re farmers, too! We know what farmers want, and we keep the most popular models in stock at the lowest prices you’ll find in North Arkansas! Family owned and operated for over 43 years!

Absolute Top Dollar offered on all trades!

See why we are the area’s #1 Truck Volume Dealer!

We’re BIG on Heavy Duty Trucks!

600 Highway 62-65 Harrison � 870-741-8211

WoodMotor.com

North Arkansas’ Volume Dealer! FINANCING AVAILABLE!

Call Mark Hanshaw: 870-715-9177 (cell) 870-741-8211

We stock the trailers farmers use most! Whether it’s a golf cart, a 4-wheeler trailer or one of the big boys, you’ll find it at Wood Motor Co. We’ll NEVER be undersold! Ozarks Farm & Neighbor • www.ozarksfn.com

OCTOBER 23, 2017