Ofn dummy 4 9 18

Farming Efficiency Issue • Production Sale Issue

Efficient Mommas Are Essential APRIL 9, 2018 • 28 PAGES

VOLUME 12, NUMBER 2 • WWW.OZARKSFN.COM

Neal Hodges says cattlemen today don’t have time for females that don’t perform

APRIL 9, 2018

A Recycled Resource Poor’s Poultry Services works within a 400-mile radius of Cameron, Okla.

Fly Free, Naturally

Managing Profit Margins Jim Milum says developing good heifers that deliver healthy calves is key

Producers have several options for controlling flies that do not require chemicals

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

1

rumor mill

Siebenmorgen honored: Terry Siebenmorgen, director of the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture’s Rice Processing Program, received the Rice Technical Working Group Distinguished Service Award at the organization’s biennial meeting last month in Long Beach, Calif. The award recognizes Siebenmorgen’s career-long research to improve post-harvest rice processing. “Dr. Siebenmorgen has dedicated his career to serving the rice industry and his research has had tremendous impact and real world applications,” said Jean-François Meullenet, interim director of the Division of Agriculture’s Arkansas Agricultural Experiment Station. “I am thrilled for Terry to be receiving this award from the Rice Technical Working Group. Well deserved” Siebenmorgen’s research and outreach program has focused on rice process engineering. The scope of his work ranges from preharvest property characterization, through drying, storage, milling and end-use quality evaluation.

The Ozarks Most Read Farm Newspaper

APRIL 9, 2018

Shoulders Named Editor-Elect: Kate Shoulders, associate professor of agricultural education in University of Arkansas’ Dale Bumpers College of Agricultural, Food and Life Sciences, has been named editor-elect of the Journal of Agricultural Education. Her appointment is for three years, beginning in 2019. The journal is published by the American Association for Agricultural Education. It promotes the profession of agricultural education by facilitating communication among members of the profession that results in widely shared research, trends, developments and innovations in agricultural education. The journal’s scope includes extension education, communications, leadership development, teacher education and related areas that support the agricultural sciences.

OzarksFarm @OzarksFarm

2

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

VOL. 12, NO. 2

JUST A THOUGHT

7

Stockyards donates books: Gary and Renda Davis, owners of the Tahleguah Stockyards, donated a classroom set of the new book “From Many Nations to Oklahoma Statehood in Three, Two, One” to the Keys School District. Characters in the book travel to historic sites across Oklahoma to learn the meaning behind the book’s title. Many Indian nations had established governments here before statehood; three constitutions led up to formation of the state of Oklahoma; and two territories merged to form into one state of Oklahoma.

Ash quarantine announced: Due to the expanded range of emerald ash borer infestation sites in Arkansas, the Arkansas Agriculture Department’s State Plant Board has approved a statewide quarantine for ash items.

Regulated articles can be moved within the state, but cannot move outside of the state without complying with the federal EAB regulations. The quarantine covers firewood of all hardwood species and the following ash items: nursery stock; green lumber with bark attached; other material living, dead, cut or fallen including logs, pulpwood, stumps, roots, branches, mulch and composted/un-composted chips (1-inch or greater). Firewood is the only quarantined item that relates to all hardwood; all other quarantined items are relative to ash, only.

|

3

Jerry Crownover – The story of post-turtles

4

Jody Harris – A bunny-free farm

5

Julie Turner-Crawford – Making a smaller foot print

MEET YOUR NEIGHBORS

7 Margo Hale works to help

farmers adapt sustainable agriculture practices

16 18

8

With a full-time job and a cattle operation, Neal Hodges wants efficient cattle

10

Clinic has been serving farmers and animals since the 1950s

Eye on Agribusiness features Farmer’s Cooperative

12

13

Town & Country spotlights Randy Deason

16

Poor’s Poultry Services has been in the “recycling” business for 20 years.

18

Healthy cows are the key to healthy calves for Jim Milum

20

Youth in Agriculture highlights Jill Emerson

FARM HELP 21 Differences in lending 22 Controlling flies naturally 23 Controlling lice and mites in poultry flocks

25

Ozarks Farm & Neighbor • www.ozarksfn.com

24

Is early spring grass enough for livestock?

When is the right time to vaccinate and worm cattle?

25

APRIL 9, 2018

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

W

e’ve all witnessed it at one time or revonway wortoo C yoften. rreJ yB another – probably You’re at a meeting, conference, or other type of gathering Jerry Crownover is where the person in charge asks a farmer and former if anyone has any comments or questions. Then, professor of Agriculture one person (usually the same one every time) Education at Missouri gets up and begins to drone on for several minState University. He is a utes about something that probably only interests native of Baxter County, the person doing the droning.

Arkansas, and an Sound familiar? author and professional After observing one of the aforementioned speaker. To contact Jerry, speeches at a meeting I attended last fall, I leaned go to ozarksfn.com and over to a good friend, who was sitting beside me, click on ‘Contact Us.’ and sarcastically asked, “What is this guy even talking about?”

“It doesn’t matter,” he whispered back. “He’s a post-turtle.”

Since I was raised to be polite, I didn’t pursue an explanation at that point, but as soon as the meeting adjourned, I pulled my friend aside and asked him, “Just what the heck is a post-turtle?”

With a wry smile, my friend began…

“Many years ago, my grandpa and I were walking down an old dirt road early one morning. We had noticed that there were more than the usual number of turtles making their way across the road and along the side of the road, as well. All of a sudden, something caught my eye just a few feet from the pathway. I stopped Grandpa and pointed to something moving on the top of a wooden fence post, so we strolled over to the commotion. There, sitting on top of the post, was a turtle. He was just floundering around with his legs that were hanging down, around the outer edge of the post, without making contact with anything, and sticking his head in and out of his shell.”

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 Jessica Allan, Larry Burchfield, Benjamin Dyson, Klaire Howerton, Katrina Hine and Terry Ropp

About the Cover Neal Hodges works fulltime off the farm, so he wants cows that can calve and raise that calf with little assistance. Read more on page 8.

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., 2018. All rights reserved. Printed in USA.

1023E SUB-COMPACT UTILITY TRACTOR + 6-Year Powertrain Warranty 2

99

$

— Continued on Page 6

per month1

Financing Available Request a quote or start a chat at

LarsonJD.com

HORSE BARNS WORK SHOPS

GARAGES

HAY BARNS

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

APRIL 9, 2018

ANDERSON ................................................(417) 436-3333 FREISTATT ................................................. (417) 235-7279 HARRISON..................................................(870) 741-4915 JEFFERSON CITY ...................................... (573) 455-2353 LEBANON...................................................(417) 532-2011 AUTHORIZED DEALER

WE’RE HERE FOR YOU. NIXA ..........................................................(417) 724-2226 ROGERSVILLE ........................................... (417) 881-2677 ROLLA .......................................................(573) 368-2011 WEST PLAINS .......................................... (417) 256-7127

1Offer valid on new 1023E Compact Tractor purchases made between 01 February 2018 to 30 April 2018. Subject to approved installment credit with John Deere Financial. Up to a 20% down payment may be required. Example: Based on a purchase of $10,405 with $2,081 down payment, monthly payment of $99 at 0% APR for 84 months. Taxes, freight, set up and delivery charges could increase monthly payment. Available at participating U.S. dealers. Price and model availability may vary by dealer. 2All Compact Utility Tractors purchased new from an authorized John Deere Dealer come standard with a 6-year/2,000-hour (whichever comes first) Powertrain Warranty. See the Limited Warranty for New John Deere Turf & Utility Equipment at dealer for details.

LFL4X40409OFA-4C

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

3

Selling Cattle, Hay, Tractors or Anything Else Farm Related?

There’s No Better Way To Reach Cattlemen In The Ozarks!

The Cattlemen’s Sweetspot Reaches More Than 58,000 Readers in 60 Counties!

Call Today To Reserve Your Ad Space In Our Next Issue!

1-866-532-1960 ozarksfn.com

4

just a thought

Freshly Picked

By Jody Harris

W

e recently took a trip out to Colorado to enjoy some winter sports spring break. I’m not a fan of cold weather, but there is something about cool mounJody Harris is a freelance tain air that refreshes my soul. After a few thrillcommunications specialist, ing days in the mountains watching my husband gardener, ranch wife and and our four daredevils conquer the ski slopes and mother of four. She and tubing hills, it was time to return to Arkansas. her family raise Angus beef After the long journey home, it was dark when cattle and other critters on we arrived. All of us were eager to sleep in our their northwest Arkansas own beds. When I woke up the next day, it was ranch. She is a graduate like a scene from the Wizard of Oz. The grass was of Missouri State University. green and several beds of flowers were in bloom.

To contact Jody, go to Being gone just one week made all the difference ozarksfn.com and click on – spring had literally sprung awake.

‘Contact Us.’ After an intense day of unpacking and laundry, the kids begged to put up our Easter decorations.

I indulged them. We hung colorful wreaths and smiling bunnies. We set out a favorite cross to remind us of Easter’s true meaning. We have one annoying decoration – a white dancing, singing rabbit. He is our youngest son’s favorite thing in all the Easter décor. After listening to the rabbit sing over-and-over, our son announced that he’d love to have a real live bunny. I spit my drink out.

Many years ago, when my husband and I were dating, we went out to a Kansas bunny farm and purchased the fluffiest, softest, sweetest looking bunny for my oldest niece. We went home for Easter and presented him to my then 18-month-old niece.

My sister and brother-in-law were not amused. Thumper, as he was named, had to stay up at my parent’s office. My niece visited him daily. He grew and so did his giant evil teeth. He was really no fun at all. Eventually they gave him away.

Years later, our family came home to my parent’s house for Easter. By this time we were married with a couple of toddlers of our own. As a payback for my own shenanigans, our two girls were doubly blessed with two white, soft, fluffy bunnies. It was fun. We enjoyed feeding and petting them. We watched them grow. What I didn’t know was, one was male and one was female. You know what they say about rabbits?

They had bunnies only 30 days after we brought them home. Then the bunnies had bunnies. We separated them into individual cages. I cleaned up bunny droppings every day. We fed them. We watered them. Even in separate cages, somehow our bunnies became pregnant and had more bunnies. It was crazy!

By that time, I was pregnant with my third child and my husband realized he had to do something to divest of our fast-growing bunny farm. A local farmer came and took them to his meat rabbit farm and I’m sure they lived happily-ever-after, at least that’s what we told the girls.

Just a few hours after my son announced he wanted a bunny, I told him that wasn’t going to happen. Thankfully my husband wasn’t around to hear him because he’d just texted me a photo of the new bunnies at our local coop. I promptly texted back, no!!!!!

I’m a little bit nervous that a baby bunny may make an appearance at our home this Easter. I do know, rabbit meat is definitely the answer to solving world hunger, neighbor!

Ozarks Farm & Neighbor • www.ozarksfn.com

APRIL 9, 2018

just a thought

Mac s ’

28 Years Strong 1989 - 2018

VET SUPPLY

Keeping Your Herd Healthy & Efficient

Across the Fence

By Julie Turner-Crawford

I

n his 1977 novel “The Unsettling of America: Culture and Agriculture,” Wendell Barry wrote: “The soil is the great connector of lives, the source, and destination of all. It is Julie Turner-Crawford the healer and restorer and resurrector, by is a native of Dallas which disease passes into health, age into youth, County, Mo., where she death into life. Without proper care for it, we can grew up on her family’s have no community because without proper care farm. She is a graduate for it we can have no life.” of Missouri State For those who are unfamiliar with Barry, he’s not University. To contact only an author, poet, advocate and educator but Julie, call 1-866-532-1960 the son of a farmer and a farmer himself. While not or by email at editor@ everyone agrees with some of Barry’s opinions and ozarksfn.com. his approach to today’s agriculture, his writings are very poignant because he advocates for a reduced ecological impact on the Earth.

He also says many of the old ways are the best ways to farm. While many tend to share his feelings, some of the old timers might not agree with his assertion.

The Dust Bowl in the 1930s showed there was a need for improved farming practices. With the promise of free land, people flocked westward. Having little or no farming experience, high prices for crops prompted the settlers to plow up millions of acres of prairie land. A severe drought in the Midwest and the Southern Great Plains in 1931, which was right on the heels of the stock market crash in 1929 that signaled the start of the Great Depression, caused crops to fail, so the bare ground sat idle. Massive dust storms followed the next year and it was an environmental disaster. With nothing to hold the soil, it simply blew away. By 1934, an estimated 35 million acres of formerly cultivated land had been rendered useless for farming, while another 125 million acres was rapidly losing its topsoil. Dust was blown as far as New York and Washington, D.C., and ships in the Atlantic Ocean were said to be coated with dust from the Midwest. It wasn’t until late 1939 that the Dust Bowl years came to an end, but it was at least another decade before the land was suitable once again for agriculture use.

— Continued on Next Page

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

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

a a a a a a a a a

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

Come Check Out Our Newly Expanded Store at

All Steel Structures • Bolt Together Engineered Buildings

Springfield Livestock Marketing Center, Exit 70 I-44 & Hwy. MM

Open Saturdays 8 a.m.-Noon www.MarathonMetal.com sales@MarathonMetal.com

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

Whether You Need a Stationary Chute or a Moble System We have Big Selections to Choose From!

Arrowquip Model 8600 Manual Cattle Squeeze Chute Great for smaller cattle operations.

Portable Arrowquip Model 8608

Roasted Cauliflower

side dish

Submitted by: Mary Spencer, Fort Smith, Ark. 1 head cauliflower

1/4 tsp ground cumin

2 Tbsp olive oil

1/8 tsp ground cinnamon

1/2 tsp ground turmeric

1/8 tsp cayenne pepper

1/2 tsp salt Cut cauliflower into florets. Toss with other ingredients on a rimmed baking sheet. Roast at 400 degrees for 25 minutes, or until tender.

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

APRIL 9, 2018

More Than Just A Feed Store

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

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

5

just a thought Across the Fence Continued from Previous Page

SALES EVENT

SALES EVENT 0% FINANCING*, CASH BACK AND MORE! Are you ready for the season ahead? Get Ready ‘n Rolling with the tractors you need to handle all the chores on your to-do list. Take advantage of 0% FINANCING*, CASH BACK and more on select compacts, utility and all-purpose tractors.

Stop by today or visit nhoffers.com for more details. Offer ends June 30, 2018.

0% FINANCINGW*I,LLCASH AND MORE! IAMS TRABACK CTOR 501 N S hiloh DGet r, FReady ayette‘n vilRolling le, AR 7with 270the 4 tractors you need Are you ready for the2season ahead? ww.w illiamlist. straTake ctor.cadvantage om to handle all the chores onwyour to-do of 0% FINANCING*, 479-442-8utility 284 and all-purpose tractors.

CASH BACK and more on select compacts, Stop by today or visit nhoffers.com for more details. Offer ends June 30, 2018.

Williams Tractor

Bobcat of NW Arkansas

Williams Tractor

479-621-6001

870-423-4226

*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 June 30, 2018 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. © 2018 CNH Industrial America LLC. All rights reserved. CNH Industrial Capital and New Holland Agriculture are trademarks registered in the United States and many other countries, owned by or licensed to CNH Industrial N.V., its subsidiaries or affiliates.

2501 Shiloh Dr. Fayetteville, Ark.

479-442-8284

2737 W. Hudson Rogers, Ark.

1207 S. Main Berryville, Ark.

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

www.williamstractor.com

The Dust Bowl prompted the need for improved agricultural practices and we’ve come a long way. We’ve learned how to reduce soil erosion with no-till planting, the planting of cover crops and other techniques. We’ve helped improve the quality of water sources by limiting the access of livestock to creeks and rivers that flow through the Ozarks.

We’ve reduced the number of chemicals used by developing crops that are resistant to insects, and by rotating livestock in a way that reduces weeds and breaks the lifecycle of many insects.

Many farmers and ranchers are also seeing positive results by utilizing wind and solar power. Some are even able to “go off the grid” by using the renewable energy sources to help power their homes and barns, and pump water to their livestock.

While the Dust Bowl days are just a memory, the industry continues to come under fire. Farmers and ranchers are continually blamed for soil contamination, the pollution of streams and lakes,

and livestock bears the brunt of animal agriculture opponents for global warming and methane gas. With all of the advancements in agriculture and the efforts being made in the industry to protect the soil, water and air, farmers and ranchers are still the bad guys.

Opponents of today’s agricultural practices might need to do a little research on how farmers and ranchers are more efficient than ever and are leaving a smaller footprint on the environment.

Barry’s writing states that without proper care of the soil, there is no life. I would like to add that without farmers, there is no food and with no food, there is no life.

Life Is Simple Continued from Page 3 “How did that turtle get up on the top of this post?” my friend asked the sage old man.

Thoughtfully, his grandpa replied, “He doesn’t know how he got up there, and he probably doesn’t even know why he’s up there, either. But, for a few minutes he does know that he is higher up than any other turtle, so they’ll all have to look up to him. Sonny-boy, it doesn’t

matter whether its turtles or people, there’s one in every bunch.”

“What will happen to him?” the boy pleaded.

“Oh, he’ll get tired after a while and quit his fidgeting and head-pokin’. Eventually, he’ll lose his balance or a stiff wind will stir up and blow him back to the ground, where he belongs. After all, he doesn’t get the chance to be a post-turtle every day.”

*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 June 30, 2018 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. © 2018 CNH Industrial America LLC. All rights reserved. CNH Industrial Capital and New Holland Agriculture are trademarks registered in the United States and many other countries, owned by or licensed to CNH Industrial N.V., its subsidiaries or affiliates.

6

Ozarks Farm & Neighbor • www.ozarksfn.com

APRIL 9, 2018

meet your

neighbors

Armed for Farming

By Larry Burchfield

Margo Hale works to provide assistance in sustainable agriculture One has only to visit with Margo Hale a short time before realizing she is totally focused on one mission, to promote sustainable agriculture.

Margo is the Southeast Regional Director for the National Center for Appropriate Technology (NCAT) and in that position, Margo spearheads the dissimulation of a vast array of information to farmers practicing sustainable agriculture.

Established during the oil crisis of the 1970s, the nonprofit organization has been “championing small-scale, local and sustainable solutions to reduce poverty, promote healthy communities and protect natural resources.”

While the mission of NCAT is broad, it accomplishes its goal through associations with several other non-profits and organizations that share the same goals. That is the environment in which Margo thrives. As director of the southeast regional office of NCAT in Fayetteville, Ark., Margo, along with a technical staff of six, oversees the implementation research-based technical assistance and information in the fields of sustainable agriculture, sustainable energy, and community development.

“Not only do we dissimilate volumes of information. Our technical staff works hand in hand with farmers, government agencies, individuals, and a host of others to insure they maximize sustainable practices,” Margo said.

One of the major projects Margo and her staff work with is Appropriate Technology Transfer for Rural Areas (ATTRA). For more 20 years, ATTRA has served as the premier resource of information about sustainable agriculture for farmers. ATTRA is funded by the USDA’s Rural Business Cooperative Service under the 1987 Farm Bill. The project has produced over 200 different publications, answered hundreds of thousands of phone calls, and hosted more than a million visits per year to its website.

“The interest in sustainable agriculture is huge, and each region of the country is unique,” Margo explained. “The geography, the economics, the population density and a host of others. The regions are different, yet the demand for sustainability is overwhelming. Thus, the need for seven regional offices to dissimulate the technology and to handle the demand.”

Some of the topics addressed include organic crop and vegetable production, agricultural energy, soils and compost, livestock and marketing. ATTRA publications discuss issues ranging from biodiesel production to pest management, as well as offering specific information on sustainable production for a wide variety of crops and livestock.

One of the major projects NCAT is involved with is Armed to Farm, agricultural training for military veterans.

Since 2010 NCAT has been involved in targeting veteran outreach and assistance. To date NCAT has hosted more than 17 veteran focused training sessions reaching over 800 veterans across the United States.

NCAT has also partnered with other organizations such as the Farmer Veteran Coalition, Growing Warriors, the University of Arkansas, and the USDA Ag Research Service to train veterans in sustainable agriculture careers.

Photo by Larry Burchfield Training sessions are provided at no cost to the veterans.

The only cost to the veterans participating is transportation to and from the sessions.

Fayetteville, Ark. “Working with the veterans and seeing the success stories is the most rewarding part of my job,” Margo said. “When you consider the sacrifices these people made for their country, Armed to Farm is just one small way of repaying them for their service.”

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 APRIL 9, 2018

G ooseneck Trailers L T •F •D T ivestock railers

latbeds

ump railers

Frye Farms • Seneca, Mo • 417-438-0146

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

7

meet your neighbors FARMING IS OUR PASSION We aren’t just lenders. Many of us are farmers, too. We’re not afraid of working hard and relying on our own experiences to deliver local loan service and support to our

By Terry Ropp

fellow farmers.

Neal Hodges says cattlemen today don’t have time for females that don’t perform

Contact a local agri lender today!

Off-the-farm jobs, three young children and 500 acres with 100 registered Gelbvieh and Balancer mommas keep Neal and Rachel Hodges of Omaha, Ark., extremely busy.

The couple met while attending North Arkansas College, with Neal finishing at Arkansas Tech where he earned a degree in agribusiness. While in school, Neal in-

arvest.com/agloans

Spring Born Show Heifers & Bred 90 Elite Lots Sell! Fall &Females PLUS Cow/Calf Pairs

Member FDIC

8

Efficient Mommas Are Essential is a full-time partner in the farm. Neal’s grandfather, Eugene, grew up in the area and selected the land because the soil was fertile with natural springs that are still viable today though supported by rural water and a few ponds. Eugene began with a registered Hereford herd after World War II and was joined by his son William after college graduation in the mid-1970s.

Loans subject to credit approval

Neal Hodges, along with his mother and grandfather, run a Balancer and Gelbvieh herd. Neal said they are selective with AI breeding, and utilize DNA testing with genomic enhanced EPDs. Photo by Terry Ropp

OBCC Bridle Bit 989A

FBFS Wheelman 649W x Rito 616 of 4B20 6807 Bred to Jass On The Mark

OBCC Legend S12A

JF American Pride 098X x Westfall Voyager 721P Bred to Haras Distinction

OBCC S Interest A107

W/C United 956Y x STF Open Range P022 Bred to LLSF Charged Up Adam Owen 417-830-8150 Matt Owen 417-830-8180 Casey Owen 417-830-9739 Aaron Owen 417-830-6252 cowboysatplay@aol.com

Wallace Travel Gal 3125

PVF Insight 0129 x WCC Wide Load 848 Bred to CCR Anchor 9071B Sale Managers: Val & Lori Eberspacher 507-532-6694 • Val Cell 612-805-7405 sales@ebersale.com Catalog online at www.ebersale.com Bid online at www.LiveAuctions.tv

They decided to switch to registered terned with the USDA, which hired him full-time immediately after graduation. Gelbvieh because of their maternal Neal is now a loan specialist for com- traits, longevity and good muscling.

Eleven years ago, William was in an mercial waste and water systems, which includes towns and cities. Rachel chose accident and passed. Neal had shown a different path and finished at Missouri livestock when he was young and imState University with a degree in educa- mediately stepped up his participation tion. She then earned a master’s in edu- in the ranch to help out. As his grandcation administration and is in her first father started slowing down seven years ago, he took over the books, year as assistant principal at paperwork and sale of the Hollister Middle School in Omaha, Ark. breeding stock Missouri.

“We sell mostly by private The Hodges’ breeding stock treaty and must meet the needs ranch is a family operation, of a variety of buyers,” Neal said. shared with Neal’s mother “We produce highly functional Diana, who in addition to breeding animals with a variety of being a high school teacher

Ozarks Farm & Neighbor • www.ozarksfn.com

APRIL 9, 2018

meet your neighbors dominant traits to meet those needs. We The ranch has both spring and fall calvare able to do so because we use AI and ing seasons, with heifers and bulls sepaselect semen with different dominant rated at 5 months of age to prevent early traits. The up-and-coming technology pregnancies since Gelbviehs reach puberis DNA testing with genomic enhanced ty early. The herd is vaccinated twice per EPDs, which makes prediction about year, and long-term injectable dewormers the characteristics of future calves even are administered once a year. He also uses more accurate than traditional EPDs.” a pour-on wormer once a year. Neal beExamples of the variety of available lieves the combination works well with cattle at the Hodges ranch are heifer one catching what the other might miss, bulls, growth bulls and heifers that ma- though both do a good job. Calves also ture to efficient cows with a moderate receive Multimin 90 vitamins shots to frame. Attention to a variety pays off ensure balanced nutrition. because repeat and word-of-mouth buyThe feeding program is carefully planned. ers dominate their customer base.

Cows and herd bulls graze and eat hay One factor that conmixed with Mix 30 liqtributes to the herd’s uid cattle feed. Because success and efficiency is the bulls are used with rigorous culling criteria only small groups, they which include culling don’t need extra grainmommas who do not ing or other specialbreed back on time, do ized breeding recovery not produce a weanprocedures. During the ing calf of acceptable winter, heifers receive weight and/or do not 15 percent protein once are essential exhibit a gentle and a day to support grass cooperative temperaand hay. Bull calves, on and ment. The ranch typithe other hand, receive cally retains 20 heifers 20 percent protein grain annually as replaceyear-round to maintain . and ments. Bull calves are steady growth. culled if their appearBecause the farm– Neal Hodges ance is off or if they stead is older, Neal have a heavy birth feels maintenance weight, which might and time are his bigpass on to the calves gest challenges. Some they sire. fences date back to the original land “Efficient mommas are essential and purchase and others need repair. In adsave time, labor and money,” Neal ex- dition, some of the working pens around plained. “The last thing I have time for the farm are outdated and inconvenient. is pulling calves or hunting down es- These issues will be dealt with as time caped cattle, and the tendency to escape allows though Neal hopes someday to is a significant indicator of a troublesome retire and ranch full-time. In the foredisposition. Old people or children can seeable future, however, his highest pribe around our cattle, and buyers don’t ority is to continue to improve genetics have to worry about them getting away.” so the ranch can have its own producAnother of Neal’s contributions to tion sale. herd’s success is the addition of Balancer Something that Neal and Rachel cherbloodlines. Balancers are a Gelbvieh/ ish is the opportunity to raise their chilAngus cross and an official breed. The dren in an agricultural environment. cross produces hybrid vigor and addi- Cambree aged eight, Lily aged five and tional marbling. Twenty-five percent Weston who is three all love riding of the Hodges herd are registered Bal- around to check the cows. ancers, which helps provide even more “Of course, Weston always wants to be options for perspective buyers, most of in the tractor with me when I put out whom are commercial breeders. hay,” Neal said with a chuckle.

“

Efficient mommas

save time, labor money

APRIL 9, 2018

“Your Livestock Equipment Headquarters”

Energy Free Waterers • Electric Waterers • Tip Tanks • Stock Tanks

800-530-5158

www.zeitlow.com • Email: mosales@zeitlow.com

Wholesale Seed Division

417-725-3512 • 1-800-648-7379

Wt. Lbs.

Total Germ.

$ Lb.

Bag Lb.

Wt. Lbs.

WARM SEASON

LESPEDEZA

90% 1.28

ORCHARD GRASS

Add A Legume!

50 ARID, Drought Tolerant 90% 2.96 50 ARID “DR”, Drought/Disease Resist. 90% 3.12 50 POTOMAC, Disease Resistant 90% 2.92 50 HULLED ORCHARD, VNS 85% 3.10 50 FAST PASTURE MIX 90% 1.78

50 SILO MAX DWARF “BMR” 2.16 1.96 50 BALE ALL HYB. FORAGE

1.22 50 ROX ORANGE CANE, 60% Germ 1.28 0.88 50 WACONIA, For Molasses 1.59 1.39 50 MILO, 95 & 115 Day 1.82 1.62 50 WILD BIRD GRAIN MILO, Non-Hybrid 0.98 0.88

Only $10.00 Per Acre Difference!

7.68

L446RR Coated, 65% Pure 50 HAYGRAZER, Inoc., Not Coated 90% 2.96 50 CIMARRON, VL400 90% 2.96

Inoc., Not Coated 50 LIBERTY, “Tallest” 90% 2.98

Inoc., Not Coated 50 VERNAL, Cert., Winter Hardy 90% 2.86

SORGHUMS

90% 2.96

50 SAFE “T” GRAZE,

0.56 Sudan Piper Cross=Low Prussic Acid 50 BMR 6, Sweet Chow

0.84 50 HYBRID PEARL, Millet, “Sweetgraze” 0.99 50 MILLET, GERMAN, “Strain R” 0.64

FESCUE

Not Coated

50 GENUITY, Roundup® Ready

SUDAN/MILLET

50 KY-31, Cert. & Endophyte Free

Bag Lb.

ALFALFAS

60 COMMON SENSE, Inoc.

50 WRANGLER BERMUDA, 50% Coated, April 6.18 50 CHEROKEE BERMUDA, Hulled, 99% Pure 7.96 50 TEFF GRASS, Coated Corvallis 2.18 50 CRABGRASS, Red River 4.96 25 CRABGRASS, Quick-n-Big OUT 50 BERMUDA, Hulled/Not Coated 7.55 7.35 50 BERMUDA, Unhulled 5.55 5.35 50 KOREAN, Inoc/Not Coated

Total Germ.

Hulled Orchard Grass, Endophyte-Free KY-31 Fescue, Perennial Ryegrass & Timothy

GRAINS

64 HAYMASTER OAT

Bushel

Bag

9.85 19.70

Forage / Tall, 2 BU/Bag

Grain-Type, 2 BU/Bag

R-Ready® Willcross WXR7484 No Contract

64 HORSEPOWER OAT 9.85 19.70 50 SOYBEANS - LAREDO Hay Type 36.45 50 SOYBEANS 29.95

90% 1.79 50 SOYBEANS R-Ready® Lewis 42.00

50 SOYBEANS Liberty Link® Willcross 44.90 140K SOYBEANS 73.84

50 KY-31 90% 1.39 50 KY-31 / ORCHARD MIX 90% 1.36 50 KY-32, Cert. & Endophyte Free 90% 1.79 50 FAST PASTURE MIX, Cattle/Horses 90% 1.78 Hulled Orchard Grass, Endophyte Free KY-31 Fescue, Perennial Ryegrass & Timothy 25 ESTANCIA, Friendly Endo, Ark. ASK 25 BAR OPTIMA E34, Soft Leaf

ASK

510 W Mt Vernon Nixa, MO 65714

nixahardware.com

R-Ready® Eagle Brand “Big Fellow”

80K CORN R-Ready® Lewis RB1100RR2 168.50 50/48K BARLEY Winter or Spring 13.85

Chemical Headquarters

SAVE YOUR SEED SAMPLE

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

SUBJECT TO PRIOR SALE

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.

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

9

ozarks

roots

the people, places and traditions that make the ozarks home

Serving Farmers and Animals

since the 1950s

By Terry Ropp

Siloam Springs Veterinary Clinic has grown to three locations with seven full-time veterinarians Doctors McCarver and Shackelford bought that facility in the town of Southwest, The old saying that nothing is more constant than change holds true Mo., and have an ever-increasing demand for their services. In addition, the facility everywhere, including Northwest Arkansas and veterinary medicine.

In Northwest Arkansas, population is booming at the same time that agriculture is in Siloam Springs became insufficient to handle all of the small animal business so a huge industry. Both town and country farmers and generational farmers need more that another separate clinic catering only to small animals was developed.

“This new satellite location is important in order to meet client psychological and ever-evolving care for their livestock.

“One of the best kept secrets in American is that the huge agricultural industry is needs as well as veterinary needs,” Dr. McCarver explained.

According to Dr. McCarver, dogs and cats and other pocket animals have become continuing to grow while being more efficient all the time,” Dr. Richard McCarver, one of the current owners of the Siloam Springs Veterinary Clinic, said. “It provides members of families rather than pets, a substantial change from 25 years ago. Some more food for more people using less resources. Further, growth additives are used urban clients are uncomfortable being in a facility where they can hear calves bawlless and less as producers seek to meet current consumer demands for more natu- ing or horses neighing while some generational farmers want a place they can bring their dogs, as well as other animals and feel most ral foods. Farmers need to make money and to do so comfortable with familiar farm sounds. must and meet consumer demands. We proactively At the large animal facility in Siloam Springs, two try to help them meet those needs.” doctors are always dedicated to large animal servicThe Siloam Springs Veterinary Clinic opened in es, one within the clinic and one traveling to farms. the 1950s with Dr. Louis Stratton, who set patterns A typical traveling day might include a horse with still in use today. Those patterns include a mixed an eye injury, another horse that is lame, a cow with practice of small and large animals, the tradition of a magnesium deficiency and a calf with pneumonia. visiting farmers on their farms as needed, and the A growing segment of the clientele are people practice of providing surgical, medical, dental and who hold town jobs and have smaller livestock preventative care. operations on the side, perhaps recapturing youthIn 1965, Dr. Stratton switched to a four-decade ful memories on their grandparents’ farms. Many long educational career at the Veterinary College of of these smaller producers need advice as much as Oklahoma State University. Logically, he sold the treatment. Such advice may include options for fly clinic to Dr. Dwain Thomas, who hired Tim Woody control in their specific situation. The clinic, thereas an additional veterinarian that in the early 1970s fore, carries a wide variety of medicines with a deep followed by Kenneth Leach in the late 70s. The curinventory whether they themselves perform the rent owners are Dr. Richard McCarver and Dr. Brian services or the producers do so to save money. Dr. Shackleford. Both were Siloam veterinarians with McCarver further described every day as a mystery Dr. McCarver beginning a gradual buyout in 1998 with unexpected demands. The result is that buying and joined by Dr. Shackelford in 2003. The clinic in volume, such as $30,000 for vaccines and Cognow has seven full-time veterinarians and three Dr. Richard McCarver gin tests for horses, allows them to take advantage part-time. Demonstrating the passion and commitPhoto by Terry Ropp of best price discounts which they can then pass on. ment these people have is the fact that the three The Siloam Springs Veterinary Clinic is a USDA part-time veterinarians are the previous owners, Dr. approved Coggin’s lab with another outreach being equine clinics, which often run Thomas, Dr. Woody and Dr. Kenneth who still work two to two days a week.

While the original structure remains, it is undergone three major renovations and on Saturdays with the first one this year taking place at the end of February. A stanthe addition of a second-story in the mid-1990s. The second story houses offices, a dard practice is to go to riding clubs in order to service their horses for vaccines and/ conference room, a pharmacy room and space for interns including bedroom facili- or Coggins tests whether for spring trail rides or rodeoing.

“We are growing at a steady 5 to 10 percent per year which reflects population ties. Other facility changes have been additional kennels and stalls for animals who need to remain under veterinary care as well as a hydraulic tilt chute. Even with all growth and increasing rural needs,” Dr. McCarver said. “Our job is to adapt to our of these additions, demand became greater than their capacity to fill. The traveling customers needs and to keep up to date with all of the latest advances. One advanvets were making more and more calls to farmers in the southwest corner of Missouri tage in having interns is that we have an opportunity to see some future large animal veterinarians up close and perhaps include them in our growing practice.” after a clinic in the area closed.

10

Ozarks Farm & Neighbor • www.ozarksfn.com

APRIL 9, 2018

COMING SOON! The Ozarks’ Only Ag Resource Directory

d FAgaResroum toryn2017 ireca rce DH SUE S I 8 2 0 1 BL E W E N VAILA D A 2 3R Y L JU

The directory will be mailed to more than 10,000 farm families across northwest Arkansas and eastern Oklahoma, plus it will be available online at www.AgResourceDirectory.com. The Farm Hand contains listings of ag-businesses & the products or services they provide. This directory will be used and kept by farmers in our area year-round.

Call Today to Reserve Your Ad Space!

Ad Space Deadline is Arkansas/Oklahoma Issue • June 13th Missouri Issue • June 6th FARM

HAND

eDirectory.com www.AgResourc

ads@ozarksfn.com

by Set Your Location

1-866-532-1960

Farm Hand

Directory

Online

Now even when you don’t have your Farm Hand Ag Resource Directory handy, you can still find the information you need on your phone, computer or tablet.

• View featured listings of advertisers in each category who helped support the Farm Hand Ag Resource Directory • Find locations, websites, phone numbers, email addresses and products/services available • Search for keywords or categories near your location • Find mileage from you to the businesses you need • View listings on a map to find those near you • Search our entire directory by keyword • Browse listings by category • Save favorite listings for quick reference in the future • Give your favorite companies a 5-star rating and comment why you use their services • Click the “share” button to let your friends on social media know the businesses you frequent

FARM

HAND

by When using a computer, be sure to set your location by clicking on the map in the top left corner to ensure distance and mapping services are completely accurate

Visit Today www.AgResourceDirectory.com

Benton County Sale Barn, Inc.

Over 25 Years of Serving the Tri-State Area

Great Service, Low Rates!

Listen Friday a.m.

KURM 790 Sale Barn Report!

Sale Every Thursday

at

12 p.m.

aCovered Pens aEasy Unloading a Cattle Received

Wednesday & Thursday a Comfortable Seating with

Good Views of Sales Arena aHauling Available 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

HERD THE NEWS? It doesn’t matter if you have five or 500 in your herd, trust Farm Credit for financing that’ll meet your specific needs.

We understand agriculture. In fact, many of our employees farm themselves so we know what it’s like to raise cattle in an ever-changing market. Tell us what you need and we’ll start working on options for you today.

myaglender.com

12

800-444-3276

eye on

agri-business meeting the needs of farmers

Farmer’s Cooperative Story and Photo By Terry Ropp

Location: Van Buren, Ark. CEO: Jay Carter History: Farmer’s Coop started more than 70 years ago in Fort Smith, Ark., and has spread throughout western Arkansas and eastern Oklahoma. The Coop expanded until it is now an organization of 18 retail centers, including the Van Buren location, which was purchased in the 1980s and serves as corporate headquarters for the entire organization.

“Personally, I worked for 32 years with Purina starting in Lubbock, Texas, and completed my career with Purina in business and retail development,” CEO Jay Carter said. “Even though I liked my job, I had lost my passion. I began to search for a new challenge and prayed for guidance. At the same time, the current CEO of the organization, Gene Bruick, was also praying and looking for someone to take his place. We found each other, and Gene, now 87, still works part-time out of his original office in Fort Smith. We have a large campus which includes the corporate offices and retail center, a gas station/tire shop, a shop building with two bays for repair work and maintenance on equipment such as trucks and fertilizer buggies, and a fertilizer building plus a bulk feed facility that delivers straight to the farm.”

Products and Services: “The largest part of our business is selling feed.

We carry Purina, ADM and MFA feed, as well as our own Riverstone brand. We sell bulk feed, fertilizer and fuel in addition to a large variety of farm supplies including fencing wire, animal health products, farm equipment and pet food. Another source of revenue comes from agronomy products which are of tremendous importance in the River Valley and the flatlands of Oklahoma.

Among these products are crop protection, fertilizer and seeds, some treated for germination and health protection. We sell lawn and garden supplies as well as weed control products from lawn to pastures and Priefert, Tater and WW livestock equipment.”

Business Philosophy and the Future: “I strive to hire people ‘smarter’ than me and with divine guidance, to foster an organization that provides secure, long-term employment. I take care of my folks so they can take care of our members and customers.”

Ozarks Farm & Neighbor • www.ozarksfn.com

APRIL 9, 2018

town &

country

in the field and in the office

Randy Deason Story and Photo By Terry Ropp

Family: Wife, Shirley; daughters Robyn and Laura; and granddaughter Amelia Hometown: Chouteau, Okla.

In Town: Randy Deason and his wife and Shirley both work at the Chouteau Bank of Commerce in Northeast Oklahoma. Randy has been at the bank for 32 years, while Shirley has been there for 35.

“We met at Oklahoma State University in Stillwater while I was making belts to earn extra money. I met her during my last year after earning a bachelor’s degree in animal science and stayed around another year getting a bachelor’s degree in ag econ so we could graduate together. I have been president and CEO of the bank for 20 years, with Shirley serving as the executive vice president and a cashier, though we both started at ground level. I have served in numerous community organizations throughout the years. I currently am a director to Class Foundation. I am also on the board of directors for Hillcrest Hospital in Pryor and am active in the First Baptist Church in Chouteau.”

In The Country: Randy and Shirley have 140 acres, in Chouteau. Randy says the cattle are his, while the gardens belong to Shirley.

“I have 30 Angus/Hereford mommas in a cow/calf operation. I began using Herefords when our daughters, Robyn and Laura, were young and loved showing. Later I stayed with the Angus/Hereford cross because of the black hide and hybrid vigor. I have leased my bulls for the last 15 years so I have to care for them for only two months during early winter breeding. I have used purebred Angus or Hereford bulls from Moore Farms and take his recommendations to maintain both genetic variety and the gentle temperament that I prefer. I retain 10 percent of my heifers as replacements and find that a herd size of 30 mommas is perfect for me. The calves are generally born within three weeks of each other in the fall, the most convenient timing for me. I wean my calves in May at 500 to 550 pounds and I keep them an additional three weeks for preconditioning with shots and accustoming them to bunk feeding. Then I sell the calves at the Tulsa Stockyards.”

Future: “We bought land in Colorado where our daughter Robyn, her husband Jake and little Amelia live. We plan on moving there when we retire, where I will probably help them with their cattle. That is way I have all the fun and none of the responsibility.”

APRIL 9, 2018

5682 SAV BISMARCKsell.

His progeny

HT CONNEALY RIG 6 ANSWER 74

His progeny sell.

JINDRA DOUBLE VISION

His progeny sell.

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

13

slaughter

market sales reports

bulls

(Week of 3/25/18 to 3/31/18) Arkansas Cattle Auction

75.00-85.00 †

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

73.00-91.50 † 73.00-88.50* 72.00-87.00 † 80.00 † 74.00-85.00* None Reported* 80.00-86.00 †

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

70.00-96.00 † Not Reported* 70.00-94.00 † 85.00-98.00*

40

60

80

slaughter

100

120

cows

(Week of 3/25/18 to 3/31/18) Arkansas Cattle

30.00-66.00 †

Ash Flat Livestock Benton County Sale Barn Cattlemen’s Livestock Auction Cleburne County Livestock County Line Sale - Ratcliff Decatur Livestock Auction Farmer’s & Ranchers - Vinita Farmers Stockyards - Springdale Fort Smith Stockyards I-40 Livestock - Ozark Joplin Regional Stockyards Mid-State Stockyards North Arkansas Livestock

37.50-67.50 † 45.00-70.00 † 48.00-70.00* 38.00-65.00 † None Reported † 54.00-70.00* None Reported* 47.00-64.00 † 36.00-67.00 † 36.00-73.00 † 40.00-68.00 † 40.00-67.00* 49.00-72.50 † 43.00-75.00 †

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

20

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

29.00-68.00 † 39.00-79.50 † Not Reported* 27.00-78.00 † 2 52.00-89.00*

40

60

80

Ark. Cattle Auction, LLC - Searcy 3/27/18 757

Ash Flat Livestock

1-10 Lower 172.50-197.50 160.00-175.00 144.00-170.00 133.00-149.50 --------145.00-166.00 137.00-157.00 124.00-136.00 ----150.00-172.50 127.00-152.00 124.00-144.00 128.00-131.50 -----

3/30/18

Weekly Trends: Compared to last week slaughter lambs were weak to 15.00 lower, except lambs under 60 lbs at New Midwest - High Plains Direct Slaughter Cattle Holland, PA steady to 20.00 higher. Slaughter ewes steady to 10.00 lower, except at San Angelo, TX and Ft. Collins, 5 Area (Tx-Ok, Ks, Neb, Ia, Colo) CO firm to 6.00 higher. Feeder lambs steady to sharply lower Live Basis Sales - Over 80% Choice in light test. At San Angelo, TX 5426 head sold. No sales in Steers: 119.00-125.00; wtd. avg. price 121.72.

Equity Electronic Auction. In direct trading slaughter ewes Heifers: 120.00-124.00; wtd. avg. price 121.26.

Buffalo, Mo. • Buffalo Livestock Market 3/27/18 and feeder lambs not tested. 2800 head of negotiated sales Dressed Basis Sales - Over 80% Choice Receipts: 723 of slaughter lambs were steady to 3.00 higher. 3,888 lamb Steers: 190.00-198.00; wtd. avg. price 193.42.

Compared to last month, Feeder lambs were up 20.00 to carcasses sold with all weights no trend due to confidenHeifers: 188.00-198.00; wtd. avg. price 193.80.

30.00 lower, slaughter hair lambs were steady to 15.00 tiality. All sheep sold per hundred weight (CWT) unless lower. Replacement ewes were 5.00 to 15.00 higher while otherwise specified. slaughter ewes 15.00 to 20.00 lower and rams were steady Slaughter Lambs: Choice and Prime 2-3 90-160 lbs: to 10.00 higher. Feeder kids were 20.00 to 30.00 lower.

San Angelo: shorn and wooled 110-150 lbs 130.00-137.00.

Springfield, Mo. • Springfield Livestock Marketing Center 3/27/18 Slaughter goats 5.00 to 10.00 lower. Replacement does VA: no test.

Receipts: 596 20.00 to 30.00 higher. Slaughter does and rams 5.00 to PA: shorn and wooled 90-110 lbs 235.00-252.00; 110-130 The light supply included a small herd dispersal and the 8.00 higher. Supply moderate. Demand moderate to good. lbs 210.00-230.00; 130-150 lbs 172.00-190.00; 150-200 lbs demand was moderate. There were 10 percent springer All prices are per hundred weight (CWT) unless noted 150.00-170.00. heifers, 04 percent bred heifers, 18 percent open heifers, otherwise.

Ft.Collins, CO: wooled 155-195 lbs 120.00-150.00.

09 percent fresh and milking cows, 02 percent bred and SHEEP: South Dakota: shorn and wooled 120-125 lbs 152.00-164.00; springer cows and 10 percent baby calves. The balance Feeder Lambs: hair lambs: Medium and Large 1-2 15-39 lbs 146 lbs 145.00; 150-170 lbs 131.00-138.00. was steers, bulls and slaughter cows. Prices reported 235.00-250.00, Pkg 22 lbs 260.00. Medium and Large 2-3 25-56 Kalona, IA: wooled 125-130 lbs 137.00-141.00; 140-145 lbs 140 are on a per head basis and for Holsteins unless noted lbs 220.00-232.50.

125.00-130.00. otherwise.

Slaughter wool lambs: Choice 2-3 Pkg 43 lbs 250.00.

Billings, MT: no test.

Springer Heifers bred seven to nine months: Supreme Slaughter Hair Lambs: Choice 1-2 43-63 lbs 237.50-250.00.

Missouri: no test.

1175.00-1235.00, Approved 900.00-1150.00, crossbreds Choice 2-3 65-90 lbs 217.50-230.00; Few 77-88 lbs 200.00Equity Elec: no sales.

925.00-1000.00, Medium 635.00-850.00, few Jerseys 205.00.

Slaughter Lambs: Choice and Prime 1-2: 775.00-800.00, few crossbreds 675.00-775.00, Common Replacement Hair Ewes: Medium and Large 1-2 95-110 lbs San Angelo: 40-60 lbs 200.00-222.00, few 228.00; 60-70 lbs ind 450.00.

130.00-147.50, Pkg 110 lbs 165.00; 100-130 lbs 112.50-125.00. 200.00-212.00, few 214.00-218.00; 70-80 lbs 195.00-210.00, Heifers bred three to six months: Supreme 1025.00Hair Sheep Families: Medium and Large 1-2 Few 129-225 lbs few 211.00-214.00; 80-90 lbs 190.00-208.00; 90-110 lbs 170.001225.00, Approved 810.00-900.00, Jerseys 850.00-1000.00, 225.00-265.00, Pkg 170 lbs 275.00. Medium and Large 2 Few 175.00. crossbreds 800.00-975.00, Medium 600.00-725.00, Jerseys 165-240 lbs 185.00-215.00.

Pennsylvania: 20-30 lbs 270.00-315.00; 30-40 lbs 290.00725.00-800.00, few crossbreds 600.00, Common ind Slaughter Ewes: Utility and Good 1-2 170-265 lbs 55.00315.00, few 320.00-335.00; 40-50 lbs 270.00-305.00, few 380.00.

70.00.

305.00-320.00; 50-60 lbs 250.00-287.00, few 290.00-300.00; Heifers bred one to three months: Approved ind 850.00, Replacement Hair Rams: Medium and Large 1-2 84-95 lbs 60-70 lbs 230.00-265.00, few 265.00-275.00; 70-80 lbs 220.00Medium pkg 4-720.00, Common ind 380.00.

117.50-135.00, Pkg 96 lbs 165.00.

255.00, few 255.00-275.00; 80-90 lbs 210.00-235.00, few Open Heifers: Approved and Medium: 208-299 lbs Slaughter Rams: 125-160 lbs 75.00-90.00.

235.00-245.00; 90-110 lbs 220.00-230.00.

210.00-395.00, 314-378 lbs Jerseys 400.00-530.00, crossGOATS: Kalona, IA: 30-40 lbs 237.00-270.00; 40-50 lbs 240.00-260.00; breds 310.00-340.00, 413-487 lbs 360.00-425.00, pkg 3 Feeder Kids: Selection 1 21-38 lbs 220.00-245.00, Pkg 38 lbs 50-60 lbs 225.00-261.00; 60-70 lbs 230.00-245.00; 70-80 lbs Jerseys 418 lbs 640.00, crossbreds 400.00-450.00, 535-600 262.50. Selection 2 23-35 lbs 200.00-215.00.

202.50-227.50; 80-90 lbs 212.00-215.00; 90-100 lbs 202.50lbs 520.00-580.00, crossbreds 500.00- 610.00, 637-684 lbs Slaughter Goats: Selection 1 42-70 lbs 247.50-277.50. Selec- 210.00.

645.00-750.00, pkg 2 crossbreds 690 lbs 600.00, 710-787 tion 2 40-75 lbs 200.00-217.50. Selection 3 Pkg 81 lbs 195.00. Ft. Collins: 40-60 lbs 210.00-225.00, few 260.00; 60-80 lbs lbs 695.00-750.00.

Replacement Does: Selection 1 and 2 92-150 lbs 175.00205.00-225.00, few 245.00; 80-90 lbs 180.00-205.00; 90-100 lbs Common: 350 lb ind 210.00, 590 lb ind 320.00, 565 lb ind 200.00; Pkg 144 lbs 205.00. Selection 2 63-120 lbs 120.00180.00-195.00.

410.00.

150.00, Pkg 137 lbs 117.50.

Missouri: 40-65 lbs 237.50-250.00.

Replacement Cows: Fresh and Milking Cows: Supreme Slaughter Does: Selection 2 and 3 100-145 lbs 95.00-112.50.

Virginia: 30-60 lbs 237.50-269.00; 60-90 lbs 200.00-240.00; 1075.00-1275.00, Approved ind 1000.00, few crossbreds Replacement Bucks: Selection 1 85-114 lbs 148.00-172.50.

90-110 lbs 235.00-250.00.

990.00-1025.00, Medium 725.00-925.00, ind crossbred Slaughter Bucks: Selection 2 and 3 95-230 lbs 120.00-142.00.

800.00, Common 360.00-680.00, crossbreds 400.00-650.00.

Springer Cows: Supreme ind 1000.00.

120 Bred Cows: Common 510.00-685.00.

100

goats

stocker & feeder

Cattlemen’s Livestock*

3/30/18 507

Benton Co. - Siloam Springs 3/29/18 472

County Line Sale Ratcliff 3/28/18 43

Decatur Livestock*

3/28/18 292

Cleburne Co. - Heber Springs 3/26/18 307

St-5 Lower

Uneven

Uneven

3-10 Lower

--------160.00 ---------

187.00 183.00 162.00-168.00 ---------

162.00-185.00 155.00-177.00 132.00-159.00 129.00-149.00 130.00-135.50

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

175.00-190.00 166.00-174.00 148.00-165.00 130.00 -----

----147.00 ----130.00 -----

159.00-170.00 143.00-157.00 139.00-149.00 125.00-132.00 -----

121( 5(3257('

0

National Sheep Summary

Sou Bill Dir equ 280 151 Slau San 70.0 Util 60.0

dairy cattle

69.00-102.50 † 81.50-86.50 †

Welch Stockyards

cattle

Baby Calves: Holstein bulls few 130.00-140.00. Jersey heifers 135.00-210.00, small 85.00-125.00, crossbred heifers-125.00-140.00, small 75.00-120.00, crossbred bulls few 4/2/18 125.00-130.00.

sheep &

70.00-91.50 † 63.00-88.00 † 70.50-96.50 † 74.00-90.00* 82.00-94.00 †

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

20

beef

77.00-90.00 †

Nati

Che The $1.5 Flu regi the hav milk are proc the in t Con We low are in t SPO BU $2.5

prices

Farmers Livestock Springdale 3/30/18 185

Fort Smith Stockyards

3/27/18 560

Farmer’s & Ranchers Vinita, Okla.* 3/28/18 212

Joplin Regional Stockyards 3/26/18 4,796

Mi Stoc

3/26/18 1,096

I-40 Livestock Ozark 3/29/18 300

-----

3-6 Lower

-----

5-10 Lower

11-20 Lower

8-14 Lower

2-5 Lower

2-1

170.00-190.00 163.00-175.00 150.00-168.00 133.00-135.00 -----

171.00-180.00 166.00-175.00 146.00 ----142.00-145.00

180.00-192.00 170.00-180.00 150.00-164.00 138.00-147.00 127.00-135.00

180.00-206.00 180.00-195.00 162.00-190.00 ---------

185.00 168.00-172.00 -------------

162.00-190.00 151.00-181.00 153.00-173.00 141.00-171.50 120.00-138.50

169.00-188.00 160.00-175.00 141.00-167.00 ---------

182.50-185.00 171.00-190.00 161.00-185.00 148.00-164.00 138.00-143.00

160 152 140 140 133

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

160.00-172.00 138.00-165.00 135.00-153.00 120.00-135.00 -----

------------139.00 137.00

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

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

--------136.00-155.00 ---------

----152.00-154.00 140.00-163.00 122.00-150.00 133.00

--------117.50-163.00 129.00-132.00 124.00-133.00

180.00-188.00 176.00-182.00 157.00-170.00 142.00 -----

143.00-166.00 135.00-156.00 118.00-140.00 110.00-130.00 -----

148.00-165.00 135.00-150.00 132.00-140.00 ---------

149.00-160.00 142.00-146.00 137.00-142.00 137.00 -----

160.00-174.00 150.00-162.00 138.00-147.00 130.00-138.00 120.00-127.00

160.00-177.00 145.00-160.00 140.00-145.00 ---------

158.00-164.00 138.00-152.00 -------------

150.00-165.00 147.00-164.00 134.00-160.00 129.50-138.00 112.00-120.00

152.50-176.00 142.00-175.00 127.00-142.00 134.00-136.00 -----

167.50-184.00 150.00-167.00 131.00-159.00 129.00-151.00 125.00-130.00

USDA Reported * Independently Reported

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

APRIL 9, 2018

3/

145 137 130 121 112

10.24

10.23

10.38

4.80

4.94

4.86

6 3

ices

0 Blyt

3.87

le hevil

I-40 estock Ozark 3/29/18 300

Joplin Regional Stockyards 3/26/18 4,796

Mid-State Stockyards*

14 Lower

9.00-188.00 0.00-175.00 1.00-167.00 ---------

2.50-176.00 2.00-175.00 7.00-142.00 4.00-136.00 -----

3.86

na

Hele

4.83

4.64

3.85

e

Elain

3.74

eola

Osc

Little

610.00-1350.00 † 610.00-1325.00 † 600.00-1125.00 † 550.00-1425.00 † 650.00-1200.00 * 750.00-1100.00 † 825.00-1550.00 †

k

Roc

0

500

2-5 Lower

2-10 Lower

Uneven

1-5 Higher

2-14 Lower

Uneven

182.50-185.00 171.00-190.00 161.00-185.00 148.00-164.00 138.00-143.00

160.00-195.00 152.00-172.00 140.00-172.00 140.00-152.00 133.00-141.50

168.00-194.00 168.00-180.00 150.00-174.00 ---------

202.50 161.00-200.00 156.50-184.00 147.00-166.25 134.50-142.25

166.00-183.00 153.00-167.00 139.00-153.00 143.00 -----

195.00-219.00 182.50-196.00 173.00-192.50 147.00-164.00 148.50

167.50-184.00 150.00-167.00 131.00-159.00 129.00-151.00 125.00-130.00

145.00-164.00 137.00-152.00 130.00-142.00 121.00-135.00 112.00-123.00

APRIL 9, 2018

158.00 138.00-158.00 138.00-149.00 ---------

190.00-202.50 165.00 140.00-160.00 --------162.00-167.00 145.00-172.50 142.00-162.00 131.00-152.00 123.25-131.25

--------132.00-152.00 132.00-142.00 ----140.00-164.00 135.00-155.00 133.00-141.00 124.00-134.00 -----

180.00 184.00 158.00-165.00 --------163.00-178.00 150.00-168.00 145.00-159.00 134.00-150.00 124.00

149.39 148.03

181.10

156.24

182.81

158.63

140.00 146.24

Week of 3/4/18

171.96

151.07 146.09

* 175.56

2000

* 167.04 162.78

134.11 146.47 143.44

144.31

163.81

134.78

177.80

157.16

174.55

158.29

*

*

143.22

164.08

152.98

169.01 164.13

2500

Welch Stockyards*

-----

5-9 Lower

-----

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

185.00-200.00 175.00-190.00 168.00-179.50 144.50-161.00 120.00-136.00

175.00-206.00 170.00-189.00 155.00-179.50 140.00-154.00 128.00-143.00

152.91 174.40 163.44 162.11 144.75

155.00-182.00 140.00-169.00 140.00-151.00 120.00-131.00 115.00-123.00

135.41 147.61 136.88 139.59 133.58 137.23

154.03 161.58

138.33 **

**

151.44

167.12

3/27/18 568

170.00-183.00 160.00-174.00 140.00-161.00 130.00-146.00 115.00-136.00

137.39

182.53

146.35

*

* 153.46

161.65

147.77

161.51 *

150.00

132.00

* 162.60 148.76 147.26 146.00

149.38 138.00 132.37 * 131.08

149.59 *

*

*

*

146.84

175.50

155.00-168.00 145.00-167.00 143.00-155.00 120.00-132.00 110.00-122.00

156.77 134.18

156.75

Tulsa Livestock Auction 3/26/18 1,722

175.00-196.00 173.00-187.00 150.00-164.00 134.50-148.00 111.00-125.00

138.73

159.07

Stilwell Livestock Auction* ---------

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

Week of 3/4/18

150.10

169.42

168.85

1500

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

147.92

167.43

171.32

780.00-1475.00 † 850.00-1175.00 † 925.00-2050.00 † 850.00-1400.00 * None Reported †

3/26/18 488

146.36

165.00

840.00-1575.00 †

Ozarks Regional West Plains 3/27/18 2,241

----153.00-175.00 156.00-160.00 133.00-140.00 -----

pairs 1150.00-1600.00 * None Reported *

Ouachita Livestock Ola, Ark. 3/30/18 256

152.91 **

159.48

None Reported †

OKC West - El Reno, Okla.

3/28/18 4,693

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

173.97

2500

910.00-1200.00 † 750.00-1025.00 * 750.00-860.00 †

N. Ark. Livestock Green Forest 3/28/18 274

180.00-188.00 176.00-182.00 157.00-170.00 142.00 -----

171.47

1250.00 †

1000

150.24 143.00

174.23

875.00-1275.00 †

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

160.93 147.65

**

(Week of 3/25/18 to 3/31/18)

Decatur Livestock Auction Farmer’s & Ranchers - Vinita

145.00

167.34

740.00-1285.00 *

cow/calf

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

164.47

800.00-1925.00 †

177.52 110

Feb. 18 Mar. 18

heifers 550-600 LBS.

173.32

500.00-1675.00 † Not Reported *

2000

Jan. 18

180.81

450.00-1070.00 †

1500

Oct. 17 Nov. 17 Dec. 17

175.00

Mid-State Stockyard North Arkansas Livestock - Green Forest OKC West - El Reno 1150.00-1250.00 † Ouachita Livestock 730.00-1120.00 † Ozarks Regional 600.00-1475.00 † Stilwell Livestock Auction Not Reported * Tulsa Livestock Auction 1100.00-1260.00 † Welch Stockyards None Reported †

9

50-250.00.

0-269.00; 60-90 lbs 200.00-240.00; 0.

--------7.50-163.00 9.00-132.00 4.00-133.00

10.18

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

Week of 3/18/18

12

0.00-225.00, few 260.00; 60-80 lbs 0; 80-90 lbs 180.00-205.00; 90-100 lbs

steers 550-600 LBS.

875.00-1250.00* None Reported *

1000

Arkansas Cattle Auction Ash Flat Livestock Benton County Sale Barn Cattlemen’s Livestock Cleburne County Livestock County Line Sale - Ratcliff

July 17 Aug. 17 Sept. 17

Week of 3/11/18

avg. grain prices

Apr. 17 May 17 June 17

750.00-1150.00 † 70.00-107.00 † Prices reported per cwt

OKC West - El Reno Ouachita Live Ozarks Reg Stilwell Livestock Auction Tulsa Livestock Auction Welch Stockyards

500

$80

Week of 3/11/18

Cheese: Barrels closed at $1.4400 and 40# blocks at $1.5300.

The weekly average for barrels is $1.4788 (-.0437) and blocks, $1.5375 (-.0225).

155-195 lbs 120.00-150.00.

Fluid Milk: Milk available for processing is plentiful in all the d wooled 120-125 lbs 152.00-164.00; regions of the U.S. In some areas such as California, Arizona, and bs 131.00-138.00. the mountain states of Idaho, Utah, and Colorado, milk handlers -130 lbs 137.00-141.00; 140-145 lbs have to look for additional plants that will be able to take their 0 milk as the processing capacities of current contractual customers are limited. Milk outputs are steady to increasing with some dairy processors preparing to receive more milk as they move toward the spring flush. This week, Class I intakes are generally down e and Prime 1-2: in that educational institutions are closed for the spring break.

00.00-222.00, few 228.00; 60-70 lbs Condensed skim is easily accessible at discounted prices in the 0-218.00; 70-80 lbs 195.00-210.00, West and East. Cream demand is mixed in the East, whereas it is 0 lbs 190.00-208.00; 90-110 lbs 170.00- lower in the West. In the Midwest and West, cream inventories are available for all needs. Multiples for all usages range 1.17-1.26 270.00-315.00; 30-40 lbs 290.00in the East, 1.12-1.25 in the Midwest, and 1.00-1.22 in the West.

0; 40-50 lbs 270.00-305.00, few SPOT PRICES OF CLASS II CREAM, $ PER POUND 250.00-287.00, few 290.00-300.00; BUTTERFAT F.O.B. producing plants: Upper Midwest few 265.00-275.00; 70-80 lbs 220.00- $2.5795-$2.7325.

0; 80-90 lbs 210.00-235.00, few s 220.00-230.00.

7.00-270.00; 40-50 lbs 240.00-260.00; 60-70 lbs 230.00-245.00; 70-80 lbs Week Ended 4/3/18 212.00-215.00; 90-100 lbs 202.50Soybeans Soft Wheat Corn Sorghum

$120

Week of 3/25/18

3/30/18

$160

PricesPrices reported per cwt Prices reported reported per percwt cwt

550.00-1150.00 † 675.00-1260.00 † None Reported *

127 5(3257('

0-110 lbs 235.00-252.00; 110-130 50 lbs 172.00-190.00; 150-200 lbs

National Dairy Market at a Glance

$200

750.00-1275.00 †

Arkansas Cattle Auction Ash Flat Livestock Benton County Sale Cattlemen’s Livestock Auction Cleburne County Livestockk County Line Sale - Ratcliff Decatur Livestock Auction Farmer’s & Ranchers - Vinita Farmers Livestock Fort Smith Stockyard I-40 Livestock Joplin Regional Mid-State Stockyards North Arkansas Livestock

dairy sales

e and Prime 2-3 90-160 lbs: wooled 110-150 lbs 130.00-137.00.

cows

(Week of 3/4/18 to 3/10/18)

550-600 lb. steers

Week of 3/18/18

replacement

South Dakota: 93 lbs 167.00.

Billings, MT: no test. ed to last week slaughter lambs were Direct Trading: (lambs fob with 3-4 percent shrink or cept lambs under 60 lbs at New equivalent) 0.00 higher. Slaughter ewes steady 2800: Slaughter Lambs shorn and wooled 109-215 lbs 128.50t San Angelo, TX and Ft. Collins, 151.00 (wtd avg 145.73).

Feeder lambs steady to sharply lower Slaughter Ewes: elo, TX 5426 head sold. No sales in San Angelo: Good 3-4 (very fleshy) no test; Good 2-3 (fleshy) on. In direct trading slaughter ewes 70.00-78.00; Utility and Good 1-3 (medium flesh) 82.00-98.00; ted. 2800 head of negotiated sales Utility 1-2 (thin) 70.00-84.00; Cull and Utility 1-2 (very thin) steady to 3.00 higher. 3,888 lamb 60.00-70.00; Cull 1 (extremely thin) 45.00-56.00. eights no trend due to confidenr hundred weight (CWT) unless 3/30/18

12 Month Avg. -

$240

Week of 3/25/18

es reports

USDA Reported * Independently Reported

137 164 191 218 * No price reported in weight break **USDA Failed To Report *** No Sale

149.08 245

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

95

116 137 158 179 * 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

meet your neighbors

A Recycled Resource

By Katrina Hine

Poor’s Poultry Services works within a 400-miles radius of Cameron, Okla.

50x100x16

One side sheeted.

One gable sheeted materials.

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

16

Not many people can say they have been in a particular industry “pretty much their whole life” but Shannon Poor of Cameron, Okla., and owner of Poor’s Poultry Services can honestly make that statement.

Shannon grew up in rural Oklahoma surrounded by the sights, sounds and, yes, smells of the poultry litter business. But for Shannon and his wife, Tiffany, litter is more than green grass and sunshine, it is a way of life and independence.

Poor’s Poultry Services has been in business for 20 years under the leadership of Shannon, along with Tiffany and his children, Dylan and Abby, making it a family affair.

Often Dylan can be found running the skid steer or driving the spreader. Besides family, Poor’s have two other employees and run two semis for hauling litter and one spreader. They deliver within about a 400-mile radius of home base and as a licensed applicator they can deliver and spread litter in neighboring states.

Even though there was a market down turn a couple years ago, not only affecting the litter business but also many other producers, Shannon remains committed to keeping his vision for the family litter business going.

“I’ve actually downsized my business,” Shannon said. “I should say right sized it.”

Staying on top of expenses is first and foremost in all producer’s and farmer’s minds. For this reason, Poor’s Poultry Services does more than the usual services of total clean outs, de-caking, hauling and spreading. They also offer expert services to producers who may not have the equipment or manpower to do the routine maintenance of litter in their houses, such as: windrowing, litter depth management, specialized flood clean-up and even clean up in mass loss scenario’s.

Photos by Katrina Hine

The Poors purchase their litter from various poultry producers, sometimes driving up to 150 miles. They offer a variety of litter from hen, pullet and even turkey farms. But his number one seller, by far, is broiler litter because of the higher-quality feed regimen broilers receive to increase weight, specifically for breast meat.

Nutrient levels per a wet ton of litter are an excellent option for improved crop growth. For instance, according to an article by John Lory with the Department of Agronomy and Commercial Agriculture Program with the University of Missouri, the average content for a wet ton of broiler litter is 69 pounds of nitrogen, 16 pounds of ammonia nitrogen, 82 pounds phosphate, 38 pounds each for potash and calcium, 16 pounds magnesium, plus lower levels of zinc, iron, copper, sodium, sulfur and manganese.

The article goes on to state that there are several factors affecting litter content, including “bird type, feed Cameron, Okla. composition and efficiency, building management such as cleanout fre-

Ozarks Farm & Neighbor • www.ozarksfn.com

quency, type of waterers…and the use of litter additives such as alum.”

For these reasons, farmers should have their fields tested to see what nutrients they need and ask about litter tests to prevent over or under fertilizing.

“A pound of manure phosphate or potash has a nutrient value equivalent to that of commercial fertilizer,” Lory said.

The best benefit received when using poultry litter is how long the valuable nutrients actually stay in the soil, barring run-off, one can expect this “green” fertilizer to last longer than one season. The bulky nature of the litter, resulting from different types of bedding a poultry producer uses in their houses, such as straw, rice hulls, sawdust, shavings or even paper, helps maintain a stable top soil.

“The best aspect is its longevity,” Shannon said. “Because it has staying power, you get more bang for our buck.”

Poor’s sells to a wide variety of agricultural producers, such as row crop farmers, sod farmers, ranchers and even pecan orchards.

For those farmers not familiar with using poultry litter and purchase commercial fertilizer, Shannon believes those producers should take that initial APRIL 9, 2018

meet your neighbors

Shannon and Tiffany Poor own and operate Poor’s Poultry Services with the help of Shannon’s children and two additional employees.

step and they might just get hooked. He anticipates that the market will remain steady because of the availability of poultry litter.

Josh Payne, Oklahoma State University animal waste management specialist made this statement regarding litter on The Poultry Site, “I don’t see poultry litter as a waste product but a resource…”

He, like other specialists in the field, agree poultry litter brings more to the field than just basic fertilizer qualities. It is a multi-season option that diminishes the opportunity for erosion, has an assortment of minerals and nutrients, not to mention it increases the soils ability to retain moisture. A quality that many farmers appreciate with past droughts affecting a large portion of Oklahoma and the nation’s mid-section.

For Poor’s Poultry Service, small but determined is their business’ mainstay and keeping the area farmers in the green, in more ways than one is, their main goal.

APRIL 9, 2018

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

17

meet your neighbors

Managing Profit Margins

By Terry Ropp

Jim Milum says developing good heifers that deliver healthy calves is key Though families of six generations in a region are uncommon, fewer still can trace their heritage back to the earliest settlers, often with name variations occurring through the centuries.

John and Humphrey Milum arrived in America from England in 1623 and worked as barrel makers. The first ancestor in Arkansas was Samuel James Milum who left Hickman County, Tenn., to settle in Franklin County, Ark., and later, in 1846, in what was then Carroll County.

game while he was playing point guard on one side and she was a cheerleader for the other. They started dating during college at Arkansas Tech, where he received his bachelor’s degree in math, later graduating from Washington University in St. Louis with a degree in mechanical engineering.

He found a job in St. Louis as chief engineer for McDonald Douglas on the F-4 fighter aircraft, but after 13 years, the couple wanted to come back home so he accepted a position as chief engineer for Emerson Electric in Harrison and retired from

Jim ran a formal three-year study from 2013 to 2016. The study was based on artificial insemination (AI) supported by two registered black Angus bulls for cleanup on two lots of 50 purchased heifers. Jim decided to use AI because that process allows for much more affordable genetic improvement than maintaining “a bunch of bulls,” not to mention the advantage of handpicking specific traits. Jim has published a detail report on this process.

The purchased heifers were as uniform in size, weight, confirmation, disposition and

Jim Milum owns 300 acres where he runs black and Red Angus cattle. In addition to raising cattle, Jim has also been an engineer and a member of the Arkansas House of Representatives.

CHECK OUT OUR NEW REDESIGNED WEBSITE OZARKSFN.COM

18

Photo by Terry Ropp

The first Milum settler in what became there in 1996 to serve as a Arkansas State Marion County, Ark., was James Bluford Representative for Boone County, Ark. Following his father’s footsteps, Jim deMilum in 1853, a crop farmer who raised veloped feeder cattle from 1975 to 2013 cotton, corn and wheat.

Jim and his wife Charlotte now have 300 when he switched to commercial black acres, 160 bought from Jim’s father Newt Angus heifers.

Jim and Charlotte were selected the 1998 with an adjacent 120 coming from a purStocker Producer of the Year by the Arkanchase of his aunt’s place, plus another 20.

“My father was an important influence in sas Cattlemen’s Association.

“I was seeking a better profit margin and my life with regards to buying and selling feeder steers and heifers,” Jim said. “He’s saw the solution as being the development of good quality black Angus the one who convinced me to heifers specifically bred to dekeep only docile animals. I was Harrison, Ark. liver a healthy fall calf within a young kid but I never forgot a 30-day period with no birthwhen he got broken ribs once ing issues,” Jim explained. from a cow with stub horns Wanting to ensure that the rethat broke out of the chute.” sults of his new venture were verifiJim and Charlotte met durable rather than merely observable, ing a high school basketball Ozarks Farm & Neighbor • www.ozarksfn.com

age as possible. Each had to pass the pelvic and reproductive tract examination and docility test. The 100-heifer herd size best fits Jim’s ranch size, pasture organization and facilities while reducing input cost per head partially due to procedures that required less chute work, time and labor. Procedures were carefully specified and recorded. Each year some heifers were retained and others were culled for a variety of reasons including disposition, pelvic size and a small reproductive tract. The three-year study resulted in a 95 percent pregnancy rate, with 65 percent rate on AI. Each year Jim would retain 20 heifers for calving to check birthing and weaning weight at six month. All were successful with a goal of 650 pounds.

Some 2- to 3-year-old bulls are sold by private treaty. These young bulls are ready APRIL 9, 2018

to work and have only been used on heifers before the sale. Most heifers are also sold by private treaty on the Internet.

Steer calves are sold at Joplin Regional Stockyards in Carthage, Mo..

Since the final study, Jim added some Red Angus heifers to increase calmness and low birth weight and is now introducing a registered Red Angus bull to his breeding program because he believes the breed is more docile and heat tolerant.

“I learned much from the three-year study and feel comfortable progressing as carefully but without as much formality, time and labor as before,” Jim said.

One interesting practice is retaining a specific momma cow as a leader. Jim maintains leaders can be picked out early on because they have an easy disposition and immediately follow a grain tractor which then motivates the rest.

The process allows for easy gathering when the cattle need to be worked.

Through research and experimentation, Jim developed his own 14 percent protein grain mix and uses that with all of his cattle in addition to continuous free choice minerals and salt.

First calf heifers are fed daily while mommas and bulls are fed every other day from September to March to counterbalance less nutritious cold weather grazing.

Bulls are also fed daily for two month prior to breeding period. Protein tubs are available during the breeding cycle and the calves are creep fed all of the time.

Health protocols are vigorous with regimented vaccination and worming. Jim prefers Safeguard paste wormer which he administers once a year with no apparent resistance. He uses a pour on for lice and sprays when needed as the cows come to feed.

Jim also raises 50 percent of his own hay with most of it harvested from a 10 acre Bermuda patch. The rest of his land is a mixture of fescue and Bermuda which is over- seeded with mixed yellow, white and red clovers. He typically over seeds in the fall with vetch because it produces a good winter pasture and provides a first cutting of hay.

“I really enjoyed my engineering career and have several patents, but I can’t think of a better way to spend my time than being with my cattle,” Jim said.

APRIL 9, 2018

GOT NASTY WEEDS?

Large variety of weed killer and fertilizer to choose from at your Powell location!

Berryville 344 Hwy. 21 North 870-423-4245

STOP BY YOUR POWELL LOCATION TODAY AND LET US HELP YOU! Stop by and check out the 300 and 500-gallon trailer sprayers at your Powell location TODAY!

• Surfactant already mixed in this product • Good for spraying fence rows • No chemical license required

REMEDY ULTRA

Mountain Home Yellville 801 Hwy. 62 West 1312 East 9th St. 870-449-4966 870-425-5530

GRAZONNEXT® HL

• This herbicide is the new generation of superior broad-spectrum weed control • Can be mixed with dry fertilizer • Save time and money with one application • No spray equipment needed • Restricted Pesticide License REQUIRED

• No chemical license required • Kills woody plants

Harrison Flippin 9095 Hwy. 62 East 502 Hwy 62/65 N. 870-435-4400 870-741-0855

WEED & FEED

• Weed Killer in combination with lawn fertilizer

CHAPARRAL

• Can be blended with fertilizer • Good for weed and brush control • Can suppress seed heads on fescue if sprayed at the right time • No license required

www.powellfeedstores.com Harrison Green Forest 502 Hwy 62-65 N. 181 W. Main St. 870-741-9084 870-438-5184

Mtn. Home 1312 E. 9th St. 870-425-5530

Green Forest 181 West Main 870-438-5184

Siloam Springs 1629 E. Main 479-524-3511

Huntsville 304 Labarge St. 479-738-6814

Siloam Springs 1629 East Main 479-524-3511

Lincoln 700 W. Hwy 62 479-824-3291

Imboden 5564 Hwy 63 East 870-869-2644

522991z

meet your neighbors

Flippin Huntsville 9095 Hwy. 62 E. 304 Labarge Ave. 870-453-4400 479-738-6814

Berryville 344 Hwy. 21 N. 870-423-4245

Yellville 801 Hwy. 62 W. 870-449-4966

Lincoln Imboden 700 W. Hwy 62 5564 Hwy 63 East 479-824-3291 870-869-2644

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

19

If you eat, sleep, dream, breathe, live and love farming...

youth in

agriculture tomorrow’s ag leaders

Jill Emerson

Story and Photo By Terry Ropp

Age: 10 Parents: Ryan and Jennifer Emerson Hometown: Prairie Grove, Ark. 4-H Club: Goin’ Showin’ Club leader: Amy Horn What is your 4-H project?

SubscruiCbaen Also

By Visitin O g Our W nline ebs Yo

www.oza

ite at

rksfn.com

Then Subscribe to A subscription makes a great gift for your friends and family. If you know someone who eats, sleeps, dreams, breathes, lives and loves farming, be sure to send them a subscription to Ozarks Farm & Neighbor.

I am now receiving the paper.

I am enclosing:

$17.00 - 1 year

I don’t receive the paper. $30.50 - 2 years

$43.00 - 3 years

Add $7 for out-of-state orders

NAME ___________________________________ ADDRESS ________________________________ CITY _________ STATE ____ ZIP CODE ________ PHONE __________________________________ EMAIL ADDRESS ___________________________ Mail check to:

PO Box 6, Prairie Grove, AR 72753

20

Toll Free: 1-866-532-1960 www.ozarksfn.com

“Most of us in this group have projects about showing and taking care of show animals. For me that includes feeding, washing and conditioning hair, brushing and moving the animals in and out of the cooler so the hair grows well.”

How did you get started with 4-H?

“My mom made me go when I was 5, even though I started showing at 3 and already knew how to show the animal who was boss. In my first meetings I was kind of scared because I didn’t know anybody. Now I know everyone and most go to school with me.

Some are my best friends.”

A fun memory: “Two years ago, my steer Radish was pulling up in line when he stepped on my foot, crushed my toes and took off three toenails. We kept on going and won first in class.”

Awards: “I won Grand Champion Hereford Heifer at the 2017 Arkansas State Fair Junior Show and Reserve Champion Hereford Heifer in the open show, as well as winning Champion Hereford Heifer and Champion Sim Solution Heifer at the 2017 Fort Smith Arkansas/Oklahoma State Fair. Best of all I got sixth at the 2017 Junior National Hereford Expo in showmanship out of 120 competitors.”

What is your favorite part about living in the country?

“My favorite part of the country is the animals. I like turning out the show animals after the sun goes down during show season and also driving around on the Ranger to check cows with mom. I really like driving a truck to check cows and haul hay by myself.”

What is the most important thing you have learned in 4-H?

“I have learned responsibility, especially the importance of show prep so that the animals look good. I really appreciate the crew that helps me get ready and make the cattle look their best.”

Ozarks Farm & Neighbor • www.ozarksfn.com

APRIL 9, 2018

the ofn

ag-visors

Advice from

the professionals

Lending Differences

By Jessica Allan

R

ecently, I had the privilege to judge high school agricultural students in the prepared speech contest at Crowder College’s Aggie Day. Jessica Allan is an These students are passionate about agricultural lender at their industries and are agriculture’s future. But, Hometown Bank in there was one matter that I, as an agriculture Neosho, Mo. A resident lender, noticed. That was the lack of information of Jasper County, she these students had in how they could put their also is involved in raising ideas to use in today’s financial environment. As cattle on her family’s I have advanced in my lending career, I have refarm in Newton County alized through listening to my various clients of and is an active alumni all ages and backgrounds that there is a generaof the Crowder College tional gap in how the lending process is viewed.

Aggie Club.

Thirty years ago, Joe Smith could let Mr. Banker know that he was purchasing a pot load of steers over the weekend, and Mr. Banker would tell him to write the check and they would sign loan documents on Monday. Today, this is a very rare scenario. The lender needs tax returns, financial statements, collateral evaluations, etc. in order to make a decision (a good reason to keep updated records with your lender). To those of my generation and younger, that is normal practice. Those lending policies and governmental regulations were put in place before most of us even started thinking of borrowing money.

However, that is not the biggest difference I have seen between generations lately.

On Dec. 15, 2015, the Federal Reserve decided that after seven years, it was time to start adjusting prime rates again. The prime rate has crept up from 3.25 percent to 4.50 percent in the two years since that decision. The younger generation sees the changes and cannot seem to grasp why they cannot get the same low rates they were able to get three or four years ago. More experienced borrowers just shrug their shoulders with the knowledge that this was inevitable as the economy began to grow again.

Prior to Dec. 16, 2008, when the Federal Reserve set prime at 3.25 percent, it was not unusual for the prime rate to change multiple times a year. In 2008, before prime became stagnant at year end, prime rate changed seven times (we started out 2008 with a prime rate of 7.25 percent). During the farm crisis in 1980, prime rate changed 38 times, fluctuating from 15.25 percent in January to 11 percent in July to the record high of 21.50 percent in December. There were 110 changes to prime in the 1980s, 26 changes in the 1990s and 43 changes in the 2000s. A changing rate environment is nothing new; rather the stagnant rate environment we have been under since 2008 is what is abnormal.

As the economy continues to grow, the Federal Reserve appears to be getting us back to a more normal rate environment in which prime rate changes with our economic growth rate. It’s times like these in which we need to work with our lenders to evaluate which rate scenario works best with our farms’ goals: a fixed rate which won’t change without redoing the loan if rates go down or a variable rate which runs the risk of your rate increasing but also provides the chance your rate can decrease if rates go down. An honest discussion with your lender can help you in that decision.

After all, your lender is only successful insomuch as you are successful.

APRIL 9, 2018

We would like to thank everyone that shops at Farmers COOP and Noah’s Pet & Wild Bird. We appreciate your business.

Fish Truck Schedule

Go on-line to see when the truck will be in your area.

Garden Plants Customer & Seed Appreciation Day at the Van Buren, AR Location Please Sign up at

www.todayscoop.com

www.todayscoop.com

for newsletters & information

Be Sure to Sign Up for the Monthly New Letter (NWA, River Valley, Noah’s Wild Bird) the Best Way to Stay Informed.

With 18 Locations in Northwest Arkansas & Eastern Oklahoma To Serve You Van Buren, Ark Greenwood, Ark Branch, Ark Noah’s Pet & Wild Birds 1235 West Center 2211 Industrial Park Rd #8 Highway 41 N Fayetteville, AR. 479-474-8051 479-996-4335 479-965-2237 2000 N. Crossover 479-582-5512 Waldron, Ark Lincoln, Ark Decatur, Ark 1942 South Main St. 216 South Main St 252 N. Main Noah’s Pet 479-637-5641 479-824-3288 479-752-3399 Bentonville, AR. 2800 Hwy 102 Poteau, Okla Mena, Ark Elkins, Ark 479-367-7823 204 North Broadway 318 Hwy 71 S 2049 Twin Oaks Dr. 918-647-2224 479-394-3373 479-643-2004 Mena, Ark (Southwest Outdoor Center) Sallisaw, Okla Ozark, Ark Fayetteville, Ark 1167 Hwy 71 S 2504 West Cherokee 1100 Marts Dr. 417 MLK Blvd. (W. 6th St) 479-394-4899 918-775-5519 479-667-3825 479-521-4144 Springdale, AR. Subiaco, Ark Fort Smith, Ark Highway 22 West 410 East Huntsville Ave. 201 South 10th St 479-756-9337 479-934-4207 479-783-8959

www.todayscoop.com

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

21

farm

help

Making farming

a little easier

Fly Free, Naturally

By Klaire Howerton

Producers have several options for controlling flies that do not require chemicals Flies can be a costly problem on a farm or ranch – not only are they annoying, they can stress animals to the point of weight loss, which in turn means lost revenue.

“Normally, growing cattle gain an extra 1.5 pounds per week when horn flies are controlled below the 200 flies per animal threshold,” Dr. Justin Talley, Extension Livestock Entomologist at Oklahoma State University, said.

Producers, want to keep the fly population under control, but how can they do it without the use of chemicals? Luckily, there are some natural solutions.

Fly Predators: One way to holistically manage the fly population on your farm is through the use of fly predators – tiny parasitic wasps that are harmless to humans, plants and livestock, but that wreak havoc on flies. Planet Natural Research Center, a resource for agriculturalists seeking natural and organic solutions, said the female predator seeks out a host pupa, drills through its cocoon and lays several eggs inside it.

The resulting parasitoids kill the pupa by consuming it.

These handy little bugs can be ordered online; they arrive in pupal form, and producers simply sprinkle them around manure piles, feeding areas, barns, compost bins, etc. Once the wasps hatch, they immediately begin to seek out fly pupa to lay their eggs in.

The Planet Natural Research Center suggested the predators be introduced in early season, before pesky flies have had a chance to flourish.

It is also recommended to make several releases throughout the season to make the Fly Predators a sustainable pest control solution.

Fly Traps: Fly traps can be a useful way to manage the already established adult fly population. While there are multiple brands and styles of fly traps, the basic principle is the same – each trap has an attractant, and flies are drawn to the trap, fall in or get

what do you say?

How have you improve efficiency on your farm in the last decade?

22

stuck and die. While it might seem like this doesn’t make an impact in the fly population at first, this method does make a difference. According to the Planet Natural Research Center, the female housefly lives about two and a half months, and lays between 600 and 1,000 eggs during its lifetime. On the average, 12 generations of houseflies are produced in one year. Therefore, one female could be responsible for many thousands of flies. Every female traped prevents hundreds to thousands of flies from hatching. Some popular types of fly traps include milk jug fly traps and sticky fly tape.

Poultry Pest Management: By utilizing some rotational management, chickens will eat fly larvae before it has a chance to hatch. The majority of flies and other pests and parasites are on a three-week hatching cycle, so most producers plan the movements of their flock accordingly. Some types of moveable enclosures for poultry include: chicken tractors, electric netting, cattle panel pens and rolling coops. If raising chickens for meat or for egg production, producers get the added benefit of cutting down on feed costs by using poultry as fly control.

“The most notable benefit of keeping chickens in tractors is knowing what’s in the food fed to the chickens,” Greg Samuel, owner of Portable Livestock Shelters in Seymour, Mo., said. “Their diet is supplemented with protein from insects and grass, cutting down on supplemental feed costs.”

Sanitation Practices: Part of managing flies naturally is not giving them an adequate habitat in the first place. Being proactive with disposal of manure, not letting water sources stagnate, and not overcrowding areas with livestock will greatly reduce fly population and make natural fly control practices more effective.

“Because I have developed good relationships with experts in agriculture such as those in conservation and nutrition, I am able to use cutting edge information to improve my efficiency.”

“Sometimes the simplest things increased efficiency. I have a heritage breed turkey farm and the purchase of a car that holds 12, 5-gallon buckets to feed the various flocks has saved a tremendous amount of time and labor.”

Terrell Spencer Washington County, Ark.

Zane Graham Madison County, Ark.

“Our biggest improvement in efficiency in our registered Simmental herd is flushing eggs from good cows and successfully using those eggs through ET within our own herd.”

Ozarks Farm & Neighbor • www.ozarksfn.com

Lisa Sigmon Carroll County, Ark.

“I increased efficiency by buying feed bins so I could buy in bulk at a cheaper price.”

Mike Moss Cherokee County, Okla.

APRIL 9, 2018

A constant problem for small sized free-range chicken flocks is that they are at risk of encountering lice and mites. The solutions are relatively simple, though.

According to Merck’s online Veterinary Manual, lice are transferred from one bird to another when they are in close contact to each other. Large populations of lice can lead to decreased reproductive potential in males and decreased egg production in females.

Lice infestations can be fatal to young chicks, but in most cases lice won’t kill a mature bird. Lice and their eggs are usually spotted under the wing or around the vent.

Mites are nocturnal and hide under manure, on roosts, and in cracks and crevices. They reproduce more quickly in the warmer months.

While all wild birds are carriers of lice and mites and pose a constant risk to flocks, these two parasitic insects are transferred most commonly by equipment and personnel.

Egg crates and egg flats that have been on other farms or in other poultry houses are common culprits. Some lice are transported from host to host by louse flies, as well.

Retired University of Arkansas Poultry Extension Specialist Jerry Wooley said lice and mite infestations are relatively easy to identify and control.

“Watch for birds picking at themselves and a loss of feathers,” Wooley said.

“You can spot the lice and mites moving around on the eggs and feathers.”

Birds can be treated with a dry Sevin dust or liquid pesticide application, Wooley said.

“You can use a Sevin dust or spray, but I prefer the spray. Just hold the bird by its feet, and make sure you get a fair amount in the plumage.”

Sevin wettable powder has a greater concentrate than the Sevin dust. Sevin dust contains five percent concentrate, whereas the Sevin wettable powder conAPRIL 9, 2018

Serving Arkansas & Oklahoma

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

o

ds

Mite and lice infestations can pose a risk to flocks, but they can be easily controlled

St

By Benjamin Dyson

t Smit r o

h

Angry Birds

Fort Smith Stockyards F

farm help

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

Purebred Corral Gelbvieh/Balancer

TRO-GIN

Bulls and Females Available Martin Cattle Company David Martin

501-278-7614

martincattleco@windstream.net 7/23/18

tains 50 percent, Wooley said.

With free-range flocks, controlling what wild birds come in to contact with free-range chickens is difficult. Wooley said such flocks are at a higher risk for lice and mite infestations spread by wild birds. This makes identification and treatment even more important.

Good sanitation practices can help prevent a buildup of mite populations. It is recommended to use a high-pressure sprayer on hiding spots for mites, including on roosts, behind the nest boxes, and in cracks and crevices. Dust applications are also effective on the ground near the roosts.

Applying diatomaceous earth dust on the ground may also be effective, but Wooley advises apply at a high rate when humidity is high.

“Spreading agricultural lime will help keep the smell down, and that will help keep the flies to a minimum, and it will help raise the ph level just a little bit too.

Mites harbor in the wood, so I’d recommend using a residual like Permethrin on the rails, walls and anything wooden on the premises,” Wooley said.

Additionally, Wooley said insecticide treatments won’t kill the eggs, so it is advised to repeat treatment after 10 days to ensure proper control of mites and lice.

BRANGUS RANCH

TG

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

Cagle Rose Bud Keith Bull Development Feeders & 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

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

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

SimAngus, Balancer Bulls EPDs from the Top 1%

Harriman Santa Fe (Bob)

bharriman39@hotmail.com www.bhsf.us • Montrose, MO

660-492-2504

4/9/18

Angus Bulls

Bentonville, Arkanas

479-273-3030

5/21/18 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

1/28/19

4/30/18 12/29/14

Red Angus Bulls for Sale COOPER RANCH Romance, AR.

501-556-5263

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

9/3/18

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.

Your ad is only $19 per issue!

Call Toll Free 1-866-532-1960

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

23

farm help

Is Grass Enough?

By Eric Neher

As spring pastures emerge, producers should monitor the body condition of their cattle

Improve Hay & Pasture Yields Now is the time to talk to a Farmers Coop professional to avoid weed problems and determine your fertilizer needs.

Coweta, OK 918-486-5322

24

Stilwell, OK 918-696-3191

www.farmerscoop.biz

Tahlequah, OK 918-456-0557

With new spring grass on the horizon, there are producers who may have questions and concerns about what that means for the grazing habits of their cattle.

Is the grass containing enough nutritional value in the early spring to sustain a healthy herd, or should they continue feeding hay?

According to both Dr. Shane Gadberry, associate professor and ruminant nutrition specialist with the Unveristy of Arkanas Cooperate Extension Serivce, and Dr. Bruss Horn of the Verden Animal Clinic in Verden, Okla., it is essential to continue supplementing cattle for a little while longer.

The carryover winter grass will not be high enough in protein to maintain the desired healthy herd, and even though a pasture might be full of green grass, cattle start to loose weight.

One thing that will help with the incoming spring grass is placing the cattle in a cordoned off hay feeding area to allow for a good spring pasture to grow before being turned out for grazing.

Some good advice would be to partition off a section of the pasture using a portable fence charger and polywire system, as it is both inexpensive and most effective and will allow the necessary time that the pasture grass will need to grow.

Another factor, according to Horn, is the pasture itself. If the pasture is failing to yield the appropriate nutritional needs for the cattle even after it has had time to green, it may be necessary to continue with a hay regiment and include supplements in their diet. Protein and salt supplements are often needed if

Ozarks Farm & Neighbor • www.ozarksfn.com

hay is in limited supply. It is important to keep track of the herd by monitoring their body condition. Examine how fleshy or thin cows appear. Cows are likely to lose body condition this time of year due to the lack of nutrients they are able to ingest from the previous winter. A good goal for weight is somewhere around the middle ground; a score of 5 1/2 to a 6 on the BCS chart.

It is important to note that this scale may differ from some producers, but the key is that the cattle should maintain a healthy look, neither too fat or too thin, and that the diet might have to be adjusted as the monitoring continues.

Fertility issues can also arise from improper nutrition. One problem is that thin females will take longer to breed back than females in moderate to good condition.

Gadberry recommends that thin cows be supplemented with feed when approaching the breeding season.

Cows that are in good body condition and grazing the pasture while going into the breeding season should not require any additional feed supplements. Gadberry added that regardless of supplementation and condition, all cows should be checked for pregnancy 45 days after the normal breeding season to the normal calf weaning time and all the cows that are not breed be culled.

The nutritional needs of livestock and how they are monitored will play a huge part in the future profitability for producers.

Careful attention to weight and eating habits of the cattle and by just making the proper adjustments when needed are a crucial way to make sure that you are enjoying the benefits of having a healthy and productive herd.

APRIL 9, 2018

farm help

Getting a Jump on Parasites and Diseases

Promote Home Cooking

By Eric Neher

Livestock producers are encouraged to vaccinate and deworm this spring Spring is in the air, which brings concerns for parasite control and vaccinations in cattle, including spring-born calves.

What are the deworming options?

Producers have options for dewormers; injectables, orals and pour ons, the latter being the easiest to apply.

But since its application is completely external and is susceptible to outside elements, is it a good investment? According to Dr. Heidi Ward at the University of Arkansas the answer is yes.

More importantly is knowing that each herd will be unique, depending on genetics and actual exposure. But according to Dr. Buss Horn from Verden Animal Clinic in Verden, Okla., pour on dewormers simply do not work.

He claims that either an injectable or oral will yield a result of 99 percent, a kill rate that the pour on can never hope to reach. It will obviously come down to time and money.

One problem that Horn pointed out was the fact that he had witnessed the cattle cleaning each other after the pour on treatment had been administered. That would seem like something that should be watched out for.

Pour on dewormer does have some advantages over injectables though, as they will neutralize both body and sucking lice where the injectable will not affect the lice on the body.

APRIL 9, 2018

When should you worm?

According to Ward, it’s best to administer the dewormer once in the early spring to prepare the cattle for the summer and

then once in the early fall to prepare them for the winter. The effectiveness of whatever dewormer you chose should be tested by conducting fecal egg counts on select members of the herd over time as it is the only way to predict the level of dewormer resistance in the herd.

Vaccinations

With the wide range of infectious diseases to which cattle are susceptible, Ward said it is important to keep on top of vaccinations.

Respiratory diseases, such as IBR, BRSV, P13 and BVD, can be avoided with a simple vaccination, as well the many other diseases that can affect reproduction.

Vaccinations are done once annually and for young cattle a booster shot is recommended.

The goal, of course, is to have a healthy herd. Many of these infectious diseases can storm through an entire herd, affecting both adults as well as calves, lowering the birth rate percentages.

Many of these diseases can affect the goat and sheep population as well, one such disease, commonly referred to as Blackleg, is caused by a bacteria which goes by the name of clostridium, and can lay dormant for years in a pastures soil and become infectious only to be spread by the grazing livestock.

Early signs include the swelling of the thigh and elevated leg. A seven-way clostridial vaccination is the best way for prevention.

Horn recommends staying on a schedule and monitoring your livestocks condition throughout the year in order to maintain a healthy herd. No one needs the added expense of unhealthy animals to go along with everything else that is in need of constant upkeep.

These diseases and parasites are preventable if done correctly and will help you reap in the rewards of your very healthy herd.

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

Send in your recipes to share with our readers!

There is no limit.

Send in as many recipes as you would like and look for them to appear in future issues of Ozarks Farm & Neighbor. The recipes will also be featured online on our website at ozarksfn.com.

P.O. Box 6 Prairie Grove, AR 72753 417-532-4721 FAX editor@ozarksfn.com

25

ozarks’ farm

calendar

April 2018 9 Statewide Blackberry Association Meeting – 1 p.m. – Boone County Extension

Office, Harrison, Ark. – 870-741-6168 10 Pesticide Applicator Training – 7 p.m. – Crawford County Extension Office,

Van Buren, Ark. – 479-474-5286 10 Statewide Blackberry Association Meeting – 1 p.m. – Washington County

Extension Office, Fayetteville, Ark. – 870-741-6168 10 I-9 Poultry Waste Management Education – 9 a.m. – Delaware County

Fairgrounds, Jay, Okla. – 918-253-4332 11 Continuing Poultry Waste Management Education and Field Day –

9 a.m.-4 p.m. – Delaware County Fairgrounds, Jay, Okla. – 918-253-4332 12 Poultry Waste Management Continuing Education – 2-4 p.m., free event –

Ottawa County Extension Office, Miami, Okla. – 918-542-1688 12 Pesticide Applicator Training – 1 p.m. – call Madison County Extension

Office for more information 479-738-6826 14 Pecan Grafting Workshop – 9-11 a.m. – at the home of William Johnson,

1313 W. Mississippi Street, Beebe, Ark. – pre-register by March 30 –

501-268-5394 or ssanders@uaex.edu 13-14 4-H Rabies Clinic – Friday 2-5 p.m., Saturday 8 a.m.-noon – contact Baxter

County Extension Office for more information 870-425-2335 14 Jacksons Double J Field Day – 9 a.m.-4 p.m. – at the Ranch, 16672 Aubrey

Long Road, Gentry, Ark. – 479-659-4200 – www.doublejbrangus.com 14 Select Wether Doe Sale – 1 p.m. – Fairland Ag Barn, Fairland, Okla. – 918-253-4332 16 Ag Tax and Estate Planning – Delaware County Fairgrounds, Jay, Okla. –

RSVP by April 12 – 918-253-4332

ozarks’

auction block

April 2018 2 Brockmere Farms Annual PT Bull Sale – New Cambria Livestock Auction,

New Cambria, Mo. – 660-358-3011 5 Hunter Angus Farm Annual Production Sale – at the farm, Fair Grove,

Mo. – 417-860-1624 7 Circle S Gelbvieh Ranch “Going to Grass Production Sale” – at the Ranch,

Canton, Kan. – 620-628-4621 7 Four State Angus Association Production Sale – Springfield Livestock

Marketing Center, Springfield, Mo. – 734-260-8635 7 Shoal Creek Land & Livestock “The Gathering” Simmental Sale – at the

farm, Excelsior Springs, Mo. – 816-336-4200 7 The Andras Kind “Red Angus Bull Sale” – at the Farm, Manchester, IL. – 214-473-2355 7 B/F Cattle Company & Cleland Cattle Maternal Integrity Gelbvieh & Balancer

Bull Sale – B/F Cattle, Butler, Mo. – 660-492-2808 10 Sydenstricker Genetics Influence Sale – at the Farm, Mexico, Mo. – 573-473-9202 10 Oak Water Ranch 35th Annual Bull Sale – Valentine Livestock, Valentine, NE

– 402-376-3611 13 Spur Ranch Female Sale – at the Ranch, Vinita, Okla. – 918-633-2580 or 918-244-2118 14 New Day Genetics Ranch-Ready Bull & Female Sale – Wheeler & Sons

Livestock Auction, Osceola, Mo. – 660-492-2777 14 Renaissance XXVI Charolais Sale – Chappell’s Sale Arena, Strafford, Mo.

– 405-246-6324 14 Ozark & Heart of America Beefmaster Sale – Springfield Livestock Marketing

Center, Springfield, Mo. – 417-827-9391

26

19 Statewide Blackberry Association Meeting – 1 p.m. – Walnut Ridge Extension

Office, Walnut Ridge, Ark. – 870-741-6168 19 Youth District Horse Show Entries Due – Sallisaw, Okla. – 918-775-4838

for more information 20 Pecan Grafting Workshop – 10 a.m. – Miami, Okla. – call 918-542-1688 to register 21 Master Gardeners Plant Sale – 8 a.m.-2 p.m. – Carmichael Community

Center, 801 South Elm Street, Searcy, Ark. – 501-268-5394 23 Pasture Weed Control Option – 6 p.m. – Mayes County Ag Center, Fairgrounds,

Pryor, Okla. – free event – 918-825-3241 24 WCCA Annual Membership Dinner – 6 p.m. – Wagoner Civic Center,

301 South Grant Avenue, Wagoner, Okla. – 918-486-4589 24 Annual Ag Trade Show – Le Flore County Fairgrounds, Poteau, Okla. – 918-647-8231 26 Farm Friends – Pauline Whitaker Arena, Fayetteville, Ark. – 479-444-1755 27-28 Quilt Show – Sequoyah County Fairgrounds, Sallisaw, Okla. – 918-775-4838 27 Master Gardeners Plant and Bake Sale – 7 a.m.-noon – Yellville City Park,

Yellville, Ark. – 870-449-6349 28 Baxter County Master Gardeners Annual Plant Sale – 9 a.m. – Baxter

County Fairgrounds, Mountain Home, Ark. – 870-425-2335 30, 5/7,5/14 Beekeeping Short Course – free of charge – must register, limited space

available – Pope County Extension Office, Russellville, Ark. – 479-968-7098 May 2018 1 Arkansas Produce Safety Workshop – 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. – University of Arkansas

Fruit Research Station, 1749 State Hwy 818, Clarksville, Ark. – registration is

required – aperez@uaex.edu or 501-671-2228

15 The Great America Pie Limousin Sale – Laclede County Fairgrounds, Lebanon,

Mo. – 402-350-3447 20 Missouri Red Angus Association “Show Me Reds” Sale – Springfield Livestock

Marketing Center, Springfield, Mo. – 417-327-7870 21 East Central Missouri Angus Association Spring Sale – Cuba, Mo. – 314-393-2885 21 Owen Brothers Cattle Company “Diamonds & Spurs Sim/Angus Sale” –

Owen Brothers Arena, Bois D’ Arc, Mo. – 417-830-8150 21 The Real Deal McBee Cattle Company Bull & Female Selection Day – at

the Farm, Fayette, Mo. 25 Pinegar Limousin Road to the Rockies Sale – Springfield, Mo. – 1-877-PINEGAR 27 Gerloff Farms Enhanced Female Sale – Interstate Regional Stockyards,

Cuba, Mo. – 573-680-9117 28 Select Breeders Sale at Pinegar Limousin – Springfield, Mo. – 1-877 VINEGAR 28 7th Annual Highland Cattle Auction – Mid Missouri Stockyards, Lebanon, Mo

– 417-733-3201 28 Ogden Angus Ranch Semi-Annual Production Sale – at the Ranch, Lockwood,

Mo. – 417-466-8176 May 2018 12 Thomas Farms Limousin Sale – at the Farm, Leslie, Ark. – 501-745-8728 12 Heart of Central States Beefmaster Sale – Locust Grove, Okla. – 918-456-1199 12 Mead Farms Female Production Sale – Mead Sale Headquarters, Versailles, Mo.

– 573-216-0210 12 Midwest Regional Spring Braunvieh Sale – Springfield Livestock Marketing

Center, Springfield, Mo. – 417-327-4643

Ozarks Farm & Neighbor • www.ozarksfn.com

APRIL 9, 2018

Cattlemen’s Seedstock Directory

Angus Rose Bud Feeders - Rose Bud, Ark. - 501-940-0299 www.rosebudfeeders.com Jac’s Ranch - Bentonville, Ark. 479-273-3030 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 Hatfield Brangus - Bentonville, Ark. - 479-273-3921 479-531-2605 Jackson Double J - Gentry, Ark. - 479-659-4200 www.doublejbrangus.com Rose Bud Feeders - Rose Bud, Ark. - 501-940-0299 www.rosebudfeeders.com TRO-GIN Brangus Ranch Booneville, Ark. 479-675-4420 Charolais Rose Bud Feeders - Rose Bud, Ark. - 501-940-0299 www.rosebudfeeders.com Gelbvieh Hodges Ranch - Omaha, Ark. - 870426-4469 - 870-704-9450 Martin Cattle Company - Judsonia, Ark. - 501-278-7614 Herefords Allen Moss Herefords - Vici, Okla. 580-922-4911 - 580-334-7842 - mossherefords.com Rose Bud Feeders - Rose Bud, Ark. - 501-940-0299 www.rosebudfeeders.com Red Angus Cooper Ranch - Romance, Ark. 501-556-5263 Sim Angus Bob Harriman Genetics - Montrose, Mo. - 660-492-2504

Reach More Than

24,000 Readers

Who Are Primarily Livestock Producers,

By Placing Your Ad In the Purebred Corral, Call Today!

532-1960

1-866-

Farm Equipment

Livestock - Cattle

Machinery

Machinery

BULLS FOR SALE! RECENT TRADE-INs Reds & Blacks Gentle, Halter Broke

Heavy Duty Spike Hay Beds

Youngblood Limousin Carthage, Mo.

417/358-2476 or 388-0608 5/21/18

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

DISCOUNTS for VETERANS

2015 JOHN DEERE 6115D, Cab, H & A, MFWD, 9 x 3 Transmission With Power Shuttle, 2 Remotes, JD H310 Loader,..........................................$62,500

Gentle, Top Quality, Delivery Available

www.Horseheadranch.net

Call for Price!

Atlas Steel Now Carries

With Beds In Stock

650 ESH RD. • VINITA, OK atlassteelproducts.com

877-289-7835 / 918-256-6232

918-695-2357

4/9/18

2/18/19

Black Simmental & SimAngus Bulls For Sale Excellent Genetics & EPDs

Vestlane Farms

2013 NEW HOLLAND T6.175, MFWD, Cab, A/C, 16x16 Powershift Transmission, Electronic Hitch, Air Seat, New Holland 845TL Loader With Bucket & Bale Spike ....$77,500

Vets

417-253-2271 417-399-1430

3/19/18

15 month old Performance tested Breeding age Bulls

Sell Your Farm Equipment with a classified ad for as low as $13.18 per issue!

Call today for details!

866-532-1960

Sell April 12th at Connors State College Bull Test Sale Warner, OK also available at Christ Angus Farm

2015 NEW HOLLAND T4.105, 2WD, Cab, H & A, 12x12 Transmission With Power Shuttle, New Holland 640TL Loader..........................$42,500

We Specialize in all Types of Berry Plants

Blackberry, Grapes, Strawberry, Blueberry & Raspberry to name a few

Look us up on the web ! www.simmonsplantfarm.com

Call for a Free Catalog

479-369-2345

Ozarks Farm & Neighbor is looking for freelance writers in the following counties In Arkansas: Baxter, Benton, Boone, Carroll, Cleburne, Conway, Crawford, Faulkner, Franklin, Fulton, Johnson, Logan, Madison, Marion, Newton, Pope, Scott, Searcy, Sebastian, Van Buren, Washington, White and Yell In Oklahoma: Adair, Cherokee, Craig, Delaware, Le Flore, Mayes, Muskogee, Ottawa, Rogers, Sequoyah and Wagoner

Interested writers can email writing samples to julie@ozarksfn.com.

Poultry Litter Fertilizer Application Service Available • Application Rate 1-2 Tons Per Acre • GPS Guidance Green Forest, AR hostetlerlitter@emypeople.net

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

4/9/18

ozarksfn.com

479-267-2685

cvsvet.com 30 years of serving both farm and family.

Practical • Predictable • Proven

Subscribe today!

Country Veterinary Service Tim E. O’Neill, DVM Farmington, AR

918-645-7639

Family Owned & Operated Since 1944

11542 N. Hwy 71, Mountainburg, Ark. 72946

2015 NEW HOLLAND ROLL-BELT 450 ROUND BALER, 4 x 5, 1.8M Pickup, Twine Only, Super Clean One Owner Unit, We Sold This Unit New. Auto Wrap, Auto Tie, Bale Kicker, Monitor, PTO: 540, Twine ........$19,500

1996 CASE IH 3220, MFWD, 8 x 8 Transmission With Shuttle, Case IH 2250 Loader, Canopy. ............$17,500

2015 JOHN DEERE 4066M, 12 x 12 Transmission With Shuttle, MFWD, John Deere D170 Loader, Super Clean, Low Hour, One Owner, This Unit Is Like New., The Rotary Cutter Is Not Included. ................................$35,500

Williams Tractor

2501 Shiloh Dr. • Fayetteville, Ark.

479-442-8284

www.williamstractor.com

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

Hostetler Litter Service

• Loan Support & Analysis • Business Development • Special Projects

Ken W. Knies

479-426-9518 kenknies1@gmail.com

“A Passion for Agriculture”

4/9/18

APRIL 9, 2018

Wanted

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

27

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

We’re

Check Out Our Heavy Duty Per-Owned Trucks at WoodMotor.com

BIG

on Heavy Duty Trucks!

We Keep Several Trucks Outfitted with the DewEze Truck Beds In Stock!

NEW

NEW

2017

2017

Absolute Top Dollar offered on all trades!

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

1

#

Arkansas’ No. 1 Gooseneck Dealer 2015 LT Crew Cab White P80318 - $52,500.00

2015 LTZ Crew Cab Silver P80214 - $47,500.00

2013 LT Single Cab White 80212B - $35,500.00 1 Tons • New Tires Completely Dealer Serviced Ready to Go

Last of the 17’s 24x68 Metal Top Rubber Floor Full Escape - Torsion Axles & MORE for $11,900

We stock the trailers farmers use most!

Financing Available!

600 Highway 62-65 • Harrison, AR Call Mark Hanshaw 870-715-9177

28

870-741-8211 • WoodMotor.com Ozarks Farm & Neighbor • www.ozarksfn.com

APRIL 9, 2018