Ofn dummy 6 11 18 by Eric Tietze

DAIRY MONTH ISSUE

Nearly A Century of Dairy Farming JUNE 11, 2018 • 24 PAGES

VOLUME 12, NUMBER 5 • WWW.OZARKSFN.COM

The Swan family has been in the dairy business in Claremore, Okla., for four generations and counting

JUNE 11, 2018

A Tradition in Dairy Farming Three generations of the Hart family have been in the dairy industry in Prairie Grove, Ark.

Improving with Forages

Goats and a Higher Calling A passion for dairy goats and education has opened many doors for Grays Lland Acres and the Graysons

Quality forages can bump up milk averages in dairy herds Serving More Than 24,000 Readers Across Northwest Arkansas & Eastern Oklahoma

rumor mill

FFA Chapters receive grants: The Quapaw and Collinsville, Okla., FFA Chapters have received grants from Tractor Supply Company’s third annual Grants for Growing program. The Collinsville FFA will use the grant to fund its “Poultry Hatching” project, and the Quapaw will use the funds for its Community Garden project. In Arkansas, the Magazine, Kingston, Concord and Dover FFA Chapters received grants. The Magazine chapter was awarded funding for its animal science lab, the Kingston chapter will use funds for classroom plants, the Concord chapter will fund its “Lettuce Get Growing” program, and the Dover chapter will use funds for its “Dover FFA and TSC Expansion Project.

The Ozarks Most Read Farm Newspaper

JUNE 11, 2018

High-tech farming

OzarksFarm @OzarksFarm

Jody Harris – A childhood on a dairy farm

Julie Turner-Crawford – Honoring dairy producers

MEET YOUR NEIGHBORS 7 Third-generation farmer

Tim Verkamp began his own dairy operation in 1991

Paris, Ark., 4-H member recognized: Anna Richey, 16, of Paris, Ark., was honored in the nation’s capital recently her volunteer service during the 23rd annual presentation of The Prudential Spirit of Community Awards. Anna is a daughter of Dr. Jason and Tracy Richey of Paris. Richey – along with 100 other top youth volunteers from across the country – each received $1,000 awards and personal congratulations from Olympic gold medalist and World Cup champion Lindsey Vonn at an award ceremony and gala dinner reception held at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History.

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. 5

JUST A THOUGHT 3 Jerry Crownover –

NEO sophomore qualifies for national finals: Northeastern Oklahoma A&M sophomore Joshua Pool has qualified for the College National Finals Rodeo in the tie-down roping. The CNFR is June 10-16 in Casper, Wyo. Pool, a agriculture business major, will compete against 39 of the top riders in the nation at the National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association event. He finished third in the NIRA’s Central Plains Region with 435 points.

Teens win contest: Seventeen-year-old Emma Ferren of Searcy, Ark., and 14-year-old Abby Frizzell of Clarksville, Ark., won top honors for recipes they made for the 2018 Arkansas Dairy Foods Contest. Ferren’s Four-Cheese Tartlets won in the “Party Ideas” competition, while Frizzell’s Cheesy Spinach Artichoke Dip Chicken Sliders earned the top spot in the “Main Dishes” category. Eight finalists, four in each category, faced off against each other making their recipes in the kitchen at the Arts & Crafts building on the Arkansas State Fairgrounds in Little Rock, Ark., on May 30. Ferren is the daughter of Aaron and Jodie Ferren. She is a home-schooled student. Frizzell, who is a member of the Johnson County 4-H, is the daughter of Jeff and Monica Frizzell. Second place in the “Main Dishes” category went to Issac Overman of Jasper, third place to Avi Allred of Bella Vista, and fourth place to Truett Brannon of Mountain View. Second place in the “Party Ideas” category went to Luke Baker of Siloam Springs and third place to Maggie Mason of Bradford.

8 12

For the Hart family, dairy farming is a tradition

Jenson Tunnel is almost a forgotten piece of history

Eye on Agribusiness spotlights Halbert’s Veterinary and Pet Supply

The Swan family continues their family legacy

Town & Country highlights Ethan Propp

New farmers Jason and Elaine Hughes are surprised by the demand for their milk and dairy products

Myra Grayson’s dairy goats have taken her around the world

Youth in Agriculture features Isabella DeSalvo

FARM HELP 21 Chute side advice 22 Tips to develop dairy heifers 23 Improving production with forages

Ozarks Farm & Neighbor • www.ozarksfn.com

Ridding pastures of unwanted weeds

JUNE 11, 2018

just a

thought

What’s On Your Mind, Ozarks?

Life Is Simple

e f i L elpmiS si

By Jerry Crownover

ecause I’m a member of the so-called revonseveral worC e-mail yrreJ yB “farm media,” I receive press releases each week. Most are from companies or universities that Jerry Crownover is are touting some new innovation or a farmer and former product, and I try to scan the crux of each one, professor of Agriculture before hitting the delete button, but occasionally, Education at Missouri one garners enough of my attention that I open it State University. He is a to read the details. Such was the case today. native of Baxter County, Some high-tech company had designed a comArkansas, and an puter chip to implant in cows that would autoauthor and professional matically relay information to your computer or speaker. To contact Jerry, smart phone that would tell you the cow’s body go to ozarksfn.com and temperature, heart rate and even the number click on ‘Contact Us.’ of times the cow ruminated during the past 24 hours. With a projected cost of only $10 to $20 each, visions of sugar plums began to dance in my head. If I implanted one in each of my animals, I wouldn’t have to drive the fields each day checking on the health of the cattle because I could just lie in bed and look at their temperatures on my phone. Their heart rate would tell me if any of them were in distress through attacks from critters or getting their head stuck in the fork of a tree. And, although I know next to nothing about computer electronics, surely someone in the know could take a torque wrench to the chip and adjust it from rumen contractions to uterine contractions to alert me to when each cow started going into labor. I began to daydream about how easy the cattle business was going to be in my future. Since the computer chip information is transmitted through radio frequency identification (RFID) I was also pretty sure that I could now locate missing cows by simply turning on my phone. So long to my drone. The high-tech gadget I’ve owned for — Continued on Page 6

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

About the Cover Zach Hollingsworth is the farm manager for Swain Bros. Dairy, which was established in 1923. Read nore on page 12. 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.

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Freshly Picked By Jody Harris

une is dairy month. It’s also my birthday month. I have fond memories of the dairy men and women of Wright and Texas counties in Missouri. As a fourth grader, my family and I Jody Harris is a freelance relocated to Southwest Missouri. My mom went communications specialist, to work as a teacher’s aid in our elementary gardener, ranch wife and school. During her tenure as an aid, she met Mrs. mother of four. She and Coats. Mrs. Coats was a reading teacher and wife her family raise Angus beef to Jimmie Coats. Together the two of them had a cattle and other critters on herd of Holstein cows. their northwest Arkansas Going to their dairy farm for the first time was ranch. She is a graduate like going to an amusement park. The milking of Missouri State University. machines and the huge tank full of milk were fasTo contact Jody, go to cinating to my sister and me. If we got there early ozarksfn.com and click on enough, we got to go up in the barn attic. ‘Contact Us.’ Feed was delivered with an auger to the attic and we would climb up there and push it into each feed chute with shovels. We would scream if we saw a mouse but mostly it was fun. Before milking time, we would often go to the field with Jimmie and get the cows up. His faithful Border Collie, Chloe, would round the cows up, nipping their heels if they didn’t get moving. In the summer, the cows would be waiting outside the holding pen standing under misters to stay cool. In the winter they’d be waiting around munching hay. When the cows came into the barn, Jimmie always knew each one’s name by her markings and mannerisms. Most were calm and very few were feisty. The best part of going to their barn to milk for a night was at the very end. During milking, the “flush” tank was filling up with water. At the end of milking, Jimmie would pull a huge lever down with all his weight. Water would splash all the way through the barn cleaning it out. As a 9-year-old kid, I can remember standing along the side and letting the water rush over my barn boots. It was like a grand finale of a job well done. As a young 4-H’er and later an FFA member, Jimmie helped me start my own small herd of dairy cattle. From embryo transplants to c-section births, I experienced a lot with my own animals. We learned to halter break them for shows. We took them to a few county fairs. Jimmie built us a show box to put our things inside – painted up like a Holstein cow. Later, he made sure I had some extra money from my cows for college too. A night at their house always ended with a bowl Schwan’s ice cream. Mrs. Coats is retired but she’s helped inspire our 8-year-old’s reading with farm magazines she occasionally sends down this way. My children have experienced the Coats’ dairy farm. What a beautiful place to be a kid and learn to appreciate the hardworking people of the dairy industry. I salute the men and women of the dairy industry. I think I’ll celebrate with some birthday ice cream this month, neighbor.

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JUNE 11, 2018

just a thought

Across the Fence

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By Julie Turner-Crawford

.D. Hoard once said, “The cow is the foster mother of the human race. From the time of the ancient Hindoo to this time have Julie Turner-Crawford the thoughts of men turned to is a native of Dallas this kindly and beneficent creature as one of the County, Mo., where she chief sustaining forces of the human race.” grew up on her family’s You’ll get no argument from me, Mr. Hoard. farm. She is a graduate June is Dairy Month and, in my opinion, there’s of Missouri State nothing prettier than a dairy cow, and fully fitted dairy University. To contact animal walking into a show ring is elegance in motion. Julie, call 1-866-532-1960 I tend to be fond of the Jersey, Red Holstein and or by email at editor@ Brown Swiss breeds. The beauty of the Jersey is ozarksfn.com. undeniable with their feminine appearance and spectacular mammary systems. I appreciate the nonchalant attitude and quiet temperament of the Brown Swiss, as well as their overall strength and productivity. As for the Red Holsteins, the memory of a 3-day old Red Holstein heifer I was given as a kid has drawn me to the breed. There are also some amazing dairy goats. An Alpine can produce more than 2,100 pounds of milk during a single lactation cycle – that’s a lot of milk from an animal that weighs about 135 pounds. Being a dairy farmer isn’t for everyone. It isn’t for the guy, or gal, who wants to be a “part-time” farmer; it’s a day in and day out job. No days off for holidays, birthdays, illness or other reason. Cows, or goats, need to be milked two or three times a day, the calves or kids need to be fed and all of the other chores need to be attended to. There are many, many long days and short nights on a dairy farm. The biggest struggle for dairy farmers is low milk prices.

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Across the Fence Continued from Previous Page It’s hard to make a living when you’re still in the red after the milk check comes every month. Experts say the dairy industry’s struggle has been looming for 15 years. In 2004, milk prices were high and producers began to expand to try and cash in on those higher prices. More cows meant more milk, which resulted in an increased supply that pushed down the demand and caused a reduction in payments to the producers. Remember when we had high cattle prices about four years ago? Luckily, that increase was also seen in the dairy steer markets, which gave some producers the opportunity to catch up a little. When the market dropped, it was yet another hard blow to dairy farmers. Raw milk producers are able to set their own prices for their milk and other products, but they still struggle to make ends meet; plus the regulations for raw milk, cow and goat, are pretty stringent. For some, the fight has been too much. As I write this, I think about all of the long-time dairy producers who are no

longer in the business, and about my friends who continue to have a foothold in the dairy industry on both large and small farms. They might have bad months, but they are still hanging in there, determined to continue as long as they can. I also see younger farmers who are just getting their start and I can’t help but admire their ambition. Some have taken over family operations, some have started from scratch and others are working to get their foot in the door, but they all have that drive to make a living on the farm. In honor of Dairy Month, thank your local dairy farmer for their hard work to produce high-quality milk, and if you’re so inclined, hug a dairy cow or dairy goat. It could be the highlight of your day.

Life Is Simple Continued from Page 3

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almost three years will now go the way of the pocket calculator and eight-track tape player. I’m ready for the 21st Century. With great interest, I read further. I knew the dairy industry had used these devices on neck chains for a few years and had monitored feed intake and rumen function, but this implant seemed like a beef cattleman’s dream by recording more information and without the danger of the chain getting caught on the briars and brambles of my forested grasslands. There had to be a catch.

As I read deeper into the press release, I discovered that the computer program required to run the system was a few thousand dollars and the radio receiver that gathers the information was another few thousand. The cows also had to get within 10 to 15 feet of the receiver to allow the data to transfer. I was hoping for a 5-mile range through hilly and brushy terrain in order for it to work in my operation. My sugar plums had now turned to prunes. Oh, well…never mind. DELETE

800-444-3276 Ozarks Farm & Neighbor • www.ozarksfn.com

JUNE 11, 2018

meet your Photo by Chuck Mckenzie

neighbors Tim Verkamp hopes to continue his family’s dairy operation for another generation.

‘It’s All Good Milk’

said he wasn’t really sure now. “There’s really parts of it that I like, but the last four or five years have been Tim Verkamp milks a rough,” he said. diversified dairy herd in Today, he’s milking about 65 head, Charleston, Ark. with 20 dry cows. Tim’s herd consists of Tim Verkamp was raised on a his Holsteins, and he also runs Ayshire farm all his life, and is a third and Milking Shorthorns owned by his friend Don Buckner. He plans on ingeneration farmer. His grandfather Jerry had cattle and creasing his milk herd to about 70 to 80 raised cotton back in the 1930s. His fa- head in the next year. Tim likes the diversity of the breeds, ther Herman also raised cattle, but has since retired from farming. Jerry and but only laughed when asked which Herman also ran a thrashing machine breed he liked the best. “It’s all good milk,” Tim said. and crew many years ago. He added that his herd’s butterfat content Farming and agriculture remain a part is about 3.8 percent and total of the Verkamp way of life, protein is just under 3 percent. but Tim opted for a different Charleston, Ark. His herd is averaging about type of farming operation. 50 pounds per cow, per day. In 1991, he bought about Milk from the Verkamp Dairy 90 Holsteins and began a is picked up twice a week and dairy operation. sold through the Dairy Farmers of When asked why he opted America. to go with a dairy operation, he By Donna McKenzie

JUNE 11, 2018

Like most dairy farmers, nutrition is key for Tim’s herd. “I have my feed mixed by a retired dairy farmer that works for Aetna Valley; it’s got soybean and some other additives to it,” Tim said. He added that cows also have free choice salt and mineral available at all times. The Verkamps put up all of their own hay each year, which is primarily mixed grass. Tim pays close attention to his pasture conditions through out the year, adjusting his feeding program as needed, but has not implemented any kind of intensive or rotational grazing program. “I do not rotate my pastures; I don’t really have enough land to do that. I have about 250 acres overall, and some of that is too far off for me to keep my cows,” he said. Tim utilizes an AI breeding program for his herd. He admits the process is a little more time consuming, but not having a bull is “one less headache.”

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Heifers born on the Verkamp farm are retained, but all bull calves are sold off the farm at a few days of age. Tim typically waits until a heifer is 16 to 20 months of age before breeding. “I like for them to be a little more mature,” Tim said. “It really does help them a lot in the long run.” He also admitted there are times that heifers are a little older before they are bred because of time limitations and other factors. While there have been struggles over the last few years, Tim has hope for the future of Verkamp Dairy. “My son Josh and I work this dairy together; I enjoy it very much it allows me to do other things when I need to. Plus, I’m 58 years old and don’t want to have to go back to work in a factory,” Tim said. “As long as I can keep milking, I reckon I will. I would really like to increase my feed and my water on the place, but that will have to be sometime in the future.”

meet your neighbors

A Tradition in Dairy Farming By Terry Ropp

Three generations of the Hart family have been in the dairy industry in Prairie Grove, Ark. John Robert and Carolyn Hart live on the site of John Robert’s family homestead in a house built before the Civil War. Though the original house was very small, it had a very strong foundation which still supports part of the constantly evolving home. When John Robert’s father Everett owned the homestead, the house had been rebuilt to accommodate the many people who came to visit grandma. Part of the renovation included a long but narrow dining room which could seat 12, the same configuration as today. Also at that time, beds were scattered all over the house to accommodate overnight visitors. When the house was remodeled, boards with the dates of 1861 and 1863 carved into the wood as well as the names of several soldiers were discovered. The Hart family has been in the dairy business for three generations, though the first generation ran more of a cow/ calf operation. John’s grandfather had Milking Shorthorns and sold only the cream, using the rest to feed other livestock. When Everett had the dairy, he first sold Holstein milk to Borden’s and later to a co-op that sold to a Fayetteville, Ark., company. Everett started with two flat barns and made a huge improvement when he went to a double two barn. He also had the first pipeline milker in the area supported by a 200-gallon milk tank. When John Robert and Carolyn purchased the farm, they first used the double two barn, which meant milking took five hours in the morning and five hours at night. Then they built the new double-six herringbone barn, which has a 2,000 gallon tank. However, milking is still about three hours every morning and evening. “We start every milking session to make sure everything is working properly, but now have someone who milks at night,” Carolyn explained. When John Robert and Carolyn purchased the farm, they started with 60 Hol-

steins, but had 90 cows within four years. The Harts run a dairy on 250 owned and 250 leased acres, with 300 head of mostly Holstein cows. They have eight Brown Swiss cows as well, which add slightly more butterfat, but serve the more important purpose of serving as teachers for the heifers. “One time we had a new Holstein heifer who didn’t come up to the barn like she was supposed to and she didn’t want to,” John Robert recalled with a

John Robert believes that improved genetics combined with much better feeding programs have contributed to the fact that peak cows now produce an average of five gallons a day, with some producing as much as eight or nine, as opposed to the significantly less gallon average two years ago. “I really enjoy bottle feeding the calves for six to eight weeks,” Carolyn, who was raised on a farm south of Cane Hill, Photo by Terry Ropp

John Robert and Carolyn Hart met while attending the University of Arkansas. “I went for a year and got Carolyn,” John Robert recalled with a grin.

laugh. “One of my Brown Swiss cows said. “We keep most heifers as replacewent back toward her. The heifer saw ments and sell the remaining heifers and her and calmly followed her to the barn all the steers at 500 pounds.” and saved me a lot of trouble.” The Hart pastures are mostly Bermuda Twenty years ago, polled because Bermuda promotes Holstein bulls were intromore milk production than duced and are used to breed Prairie Grove, Ark. fescue. Weeds, such as buthorns from the Hart herd. tercups, Hemlock and onions, Because, according to John can change the flavor of milk Robert, polled is a dominant and are a constant issue due to characteristic, few calves towind and feed. Therefore, spring day are born with horns. spraying is supported by spot sprayOzarks Farm & Neighbor • www.ozarksfn.com

ing for weeds. Pastures are mostly fertilized by the cows and harrowed as needed. Their 30-acre alfalfa hay field, however, is fertilized with potash because the use of chicken litter years ago makes additional fertilizing unnecessary. The alfalfa field produces 400 big square bales a year, which is fed to the cows fall and winter when milk production starts decreasing. The alfalfa is better for animal health helping to prevent milk fever, which sucks calcium from the cows when they give birth while adding calcium to them when they are dry. The couple have two children – son Wesley, who works for Tyson, and daughter Julie, who is a home health nurse – and six grandchildren. That means the old farmstead is still crowded for family dinners and shared memories and stories. One of John Roberts favorite stories happened when he was 6. He went with his father on a horse-drawn planter to sow a cornfield and got tired. Everett set him aside for a nap, and John Robert slept the entire time. When finished planting, Everett gathered the sleepy boy and took him back to the house. Another story is about one of the many times the Illinois River flooded their bottomland. This time, as occasionally can happen, small group of cows got stranded on the other side. Young John Robert saw Everett get on a draft horse and cross while fighting the raging current. All John Robert could see were the heads of his father and the horse. Everett gathered the cows and went back into the raging river with the cows, which pulled them a quarter of a mile downriver. Only heads visible again and the cows were exhausted by the time they walked back to the farm after fighting the river. “One important thing I learned from that frightening experience is that if any of my cows get stranded just let them stay there until the river comes down,” John Robert said. JUNE 11, 2018

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ozarks

roots

the people, places and traditions that make the ozarks home

Forgotten History

Photo by Terry Ropp

By Terry Ropp

The Jenson Tunnel is Oklahoma’s first and only railroad tunnel Indian Territory issues and the quest of American railroads to provide service to every area of the continent make the tiny dot on the map called Jensen Tunnel more than an historical footnote. It provides a snapshot into an important part of the past. While information is scattered and sometimes contradictory, the basic story and the Jensen Tunnel remains. The year is 1885. A north/south rail route is needed to connect the more industrial North to the cattle herds of Texas. The easier but more legally and politically complicated route winds in and out of Arkansas and Indian Territory, now Oklahoma. Indian territory was home to numerous sovereign tribal nations, with the Choctaw holding the land on the route, including the proposed location of the Jensen Tunnel, named for now gone town of Jenson, Okla., about 20 miles from Poteau. Choctaw land was literally foreign and therefore not subject to eminent domain. Arkansas, having been a state since 1836, contained such land and the Frisco Railway had actually started construction in Arkansas when the legal issue was finalized; the Supreme Court ruled that the U.S. government must pay for the Choctaw land. Another issue complicating construction was that some Choctaw did not trust the government would not absorb more land. Tunnel workers were to be housed in Jenson during the two-year construction, and some Choctaw feared those workers might refuse to leave. After workers settled, small groups of Choctaw harassed workers and it soon

escalated into a week-long attack with some workers trapped. The Fort Smith militia arrived, stopped the confrontation and remained until the tunnel was completed and workers departed. These were the “Wild West” days of Oklahoma and the surrounding area, and the U.S. Marshals had no jurisdiction in Indian Territory, and native law enforcement, called the Choctaw Light Horsemen, had almost no control of non-natives. Notorious outlaws such as Belle Starr and the Jesse James gang, took advantage of the situation and used Indian Territory to escape capture and prosecution, sometimes through the Jensen Tunnel. Further, alcohol was not permitted in Indian Territory, so others used the tunnel for access to Arkansas towns to partake of exceptionally strong whiskey. An example of this lawlessness took place in 1898 when Jensen was part of the Indian territory and relations between the Choctaw and Arkansas residents were strained. One day, two young men traveled to the Choctaw town and hurled eggs into a religious meeting. U.S. warrants were issued for disturbing religious worship. When officers discovered the suspects were again in Jensen and went to make an arrest, both U.S. Marshals were shot and killed by the father of the one of the boys while his son was resisting arrest. The father was eventually arrested but subsequently acquitted of the murders. The days of hot tempers, gunfights and hanging trees for murderers and horse thieves are long gone, as is the Frisco Railway, however, single tracks such

as that through the Jensen Tunnel are more common than many might think. After, and even during the tunnel construction, branches to other towns were laid to further extend rail service for local goods. Single tracks are vital and serve important routes through less populated areas. The Jensen Tunnel and its single-track route are currently owned by the Kansas City Southern Railroad. “The single track through the Jensen tunnel serves several trains a day, sometimes from other railroads,” Shelby Scholz, who works in customer solutions for the rail company said. “The route and the tunnel provide the most convenient, cost efficient passage for a wide range of cargo such as automobiles and commodities.”

Ozarks Farm & Neighbor • www.ozarksfn.com

The Jensen tunnel is 1,180 feet long, with an average clearance of 20 feet in height and 14-feet in width. About half of the interior section is unlined while the entrances are arched with brick and lined with stone. A small section has timbers and posts. Though the materials were common for the time, the tunnel’s unique history placed it on the National Register of Historic Places in 1976. The Jensen Tunnel has been all but forgotten. Hidden away from sight on private property, the tunnel is difficult to find and equally difficult to approach. Sadly, many area residents don’t even know it exists. Nonetheless it remains as a silent testament to a colorful past while, more than 130 years later, still serving as a viable railroad route through the Oklahoma mountains. JUNE 11, 2018

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Owner: Dick Stamps Location: Fayetteville, Ark. History: In 1976, Jim and Carolyn Halbert started Halbert’s Veterinary and Pet Supply in Fayetteville. Two years later, they purchased the land across the street and built the current facility. “I worked for them for 30 years before purchasing the business five years ago,” current owner Dick Stamps said. “When I started, the area was heavily rural, but our customer base has changed. Most of the big, old farms have already been sold and urbanized. What this means for us is that our pet business has expanded and our agricultural customers are mostly hobby farmers with cattle herds of less than 50 and lots of horses.” Products and Services: Halbert’s Veterinary and Pet Supply offers minimal supplies for sheep and goats, and a range of cattle and horse supplies, as well as a wide line of animal health supplies, including vaccinations and wormers. Other products for cattle include fly tags and sprays, clippers and blades, and show supplies with shampoos and shine sprays. “For our horse people, we have paste and feed through wormers, fly sprays, vitamins and minerals, as well as horse shoes and equipment and easy boots to protect injured feet. Because of our hobby farmer base and their love of sheep and goats, we expect that portion of our business to increase as will our supplies for those farmers. Needless to say, we have an extensive variety of dog and cat foods, which includes Diamond and Hill’s Science Diet. We have wormers and vaccines as well as treatments for ear mites, ear infection and skin issues. Flea and tick collars are in addition to many house sprays to control fleas, ticks and the ever increasingly problematic bedbugs.” Philosophy: “Our business strives to be highly personal,” Dick said. “We not only call customers by name but are familiar with their family and animals. People love to talk about their animals whether that’s a cow called Bawler or a cat named Princess, and we love to be part of that conversation. In addition, we pride ourselves in helping customers find and purchase special order items.” JUNE 11, 2018

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Swan Bros. Dairy’s history can Wiliamson, said their unique location is be traced back to a single Hol- an integral part of the dairy’s retail success. “The current location is vital to our stein cow in rural Oklahoma. Founded by Harley and Ruby Swan in retail outlet for raw milk, which under 1923, Swan Bros. Dairy began as a small state law, must be sold at the farm,” Zach glass milk bottle delivery route in Clare- said. “We continue to have strong commore, Okla. As the Swan’s herd size and munity support and loyal customers.” In addition to raw milk, the dairy producacreage continued to expand, the couple sold their milk route and directly sold es and sells a variety of products. Shelves milk from the dairy to a local milk pro- are stocked daily full of bottled raw heavy cessor. By 1951, Swan Bros. Dairy had cream, whole, 2 percent and skim milk. Swan Bros. Dairy also is known for their opened its doors to the public, selling specialty cheese, Oklahoma Premium raw grade A milk to consumers. “More than 90 years and four genera- Cheese, which is made from milk produced tions later, the cows are still grazing and at the dairy. Customers have a selection of the milk is still flowing,” Zach Holling- more than 10 cheeses to choose from, including mozzarella, sworth, the farm’s Claremore, Okla. mild cheddar, sharp manager, said. cheddar, colby, chedToday, the 300dar cheese curds, baacre dairy is unconcon cheese curds and ventionally nestled just outside hot pepper cheddar. the city limits of Claremore. “We take pride in Zach, who is the son-in-law of the providing cheeses current dairy owners, Don and Diane Ozarks Farm & Neighbor • www.ozarksfn.com

with no artificial coloring or preservatives,” Zach said. “Many of our customers travel across the state to purchase our products because they know they will get some of the highest quality dairy products in the market.” Swan Bros. Dairy’s income is not limited to the profits from cream, milk and cheese sales. Zach said the longevity of the dairy comes from other sources, as well. “The best way for us to thrive is to keep diversifying our income,” he said. Many Holstein bulls at the dairy are raised to 1,100 pounds and are processed into ground beef for customers to purchase. Other bull calves are sold to those who want to raise their own meat or give their children or grandchildren the experience of raising a production animal. Summer farm tours provide another source of revenue for Swan Bros. Dairy. For $5 a person, individuals can get an — Continued on Page 16 JUNE 11, 2018

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Ethan Propp By Terry Ropp

Hometown: Adair, Okla. In Town: Ethan Propps lives in Adair, Okla., where he graduated from high

school. After attending Northeastern Oklahoma A&M College in Miami., Okla., for two years and subsequently graduating from Oklahoma State with a bachelor’s of science in animal science. “I went to the University of Florida to coach their livestock judging team for a year. I returned to my hometown this year because year I accepted a position teaching agriculture at the high school in nearby Locust Grove and teach eighth- and ninth- grade Intro to Agriculture and Intro to Ag Communications, as well as livestock and horse judging. My father, Chell, is a veterinarian who specializes in horse care, so I grew up around horses and started horse and livestock judging early on. I really enjoy teaching and am and learning and improving all of the time, especially in classroom management.”

In the Country: Ethan, along with his father and grandfather Bill, have an 800-acre ranch in Adair and lease another 800 to support a commercial herd of 350 SimAngus momma cows and 30 bulls. “I keep my 15-head cow herd on the ranch in exchange for helping out on (the ranch). I AI my cows, which are Charolais, SimAngus and Simmental, and I occasionally use embryo transplants to improve my genetics. My goal is to increase herd size and quality. I select semen from bulls that possess a good combination of both phenotypic and genotypic traits, and use semen from registered bulls on my purebred cattle. Part of my cow herd is composed of crossbred cows, so I utilize our own bulls to naturally service those cows and sell their calves at weaning. I retain the best heifers each year, and they are bred to a calving ease Angus bull for their first calf, which I usually sell at weaning. We raise all of our own hay and have 100 acres of natural grass hay ground with the remainder of the pastures being mostly fescue and Bermuda. Our ranch still contains the original 80 acres from our Cherokee allotment and is over 100 years old. Future: “Even though I just started teaching, I am looking forward to a long

teaching career while continuing to work on the ranch and developing my herd. Even further down the road, I would really enjoy being able to ranch full-time.” JUNE 11, 2018

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market sales reports

(Week of 5/27/18 to 6/2/18)

beef

5 Area (Tx-Ok, Ks, Neb, Ia, Colo) Live Basis Sales - Over 80% Choice Steers: 108.00-115.00; wtd. avg. price 110.97. Heifers: 108.00-113.00; wtd. avg. price 110.46. Dressed Basis Sales - Over 80% Choice Steers: 175.00-180.25; wtd. avg. price 177.45. Heifers: 176.00-180.00; wtd. avg. price 176.99.

slaughter

100

120

cows

(Week of 5/27/18 to 6/2/18) Arkansas Cattle Auction

39.00-63.00 † Ash Flat Livestock Not Reported † Benton County Sale Barn 39.00-64.00 † 3 Cattlemen’s Livestock Auction 45.00-61.00* Cleburne County Livestock - Heber Springs No Sale - Holiday † County Line Sale - Ratcliff 49.00-51.50 † Decatur Livestock Auction Not Reported* Farmer’s & Ranchers - Vinita None Reported* Farmer’s Stockyards 42.00-59.00 † Fort Smith Stockyards No Sale - Holiday † I-40 Livestock - Ozark 34.00-57.00 † Joplin Regional Stockyardd 35.00-65.00 † Mid-State Stockyards 40.00-60.00* North Arkansas Livestock 39.00-64.00 † OKC West - El Reno No Sale - Holiday † Ouachita Livestock 35.00-55.00 † 38.00-75.00 † Ozarks Regional Stockyard Stilwell Livestock Auction 46.00-60.00* Tulsa Livestock Auction No Sale - Holiday † Welch Stockyards 50.00-65.50*

Ark. Cattle Auction, LLC - Searcy 5/29/18 657 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

1-6 Lower 164.00-189.00 159.00-174.00 146.00-167.00 136.00-143.00 --------133.00-164.00 137.00-153.00 126.00-133.00 ----140.00-155.00 133.00-148.00 131.00-141.00 126.00-134.00 -----

Ash Flat Livestock

goats 5/22/18

Receipts: 890 Supply was good and demand was good with a full house on hand at the start of the sale. Sheep markets trended steady to 10 cents lower than last month, while goat markets held mostly steady. The supply made up of 54 percent lambs, 16 percent ewes and rams, 21 percent kid goats, and 6 percent Springfield, Mo. • Springfield Livestock Marketing Center 5/22/18 bucks and does. All prices are per hundred weight (CWT) unless noted otherwise. Receipts: 615 SHEEP: The moderate supply included several large groups of open Feeder Lambs: mostly hair: Medium and Large 1 28-35 lbs heifers. The demand was moderate to light with 06 percent 250.00-275.00; 41-58 lbs 200.00-217.50. Medium and Large springer heifers, 09 percent bred heifers, 33 percent open 1-2 25-38 lbs 202.50-222.50; 44-59 lbs 182.50-197.00. Medium heifers, 04 percent fresh and milking cows, 03 percent bred and Large 2-3 44-46 lbs 100.00-135.00. and springer cows and 06 percent baby calves. The balance was steers, bulls and slaughter cows. Prices reported are on a Slaughter wool lambs: Choice and Prime 1-2 60-78 lbs 177.50183.50. 140 per head basis and for Holsteins unless noted otherwise. Slaughter Hair Lambs: Prime 2-3 68-73 lbs 190.00-212.50; Springer Heifers bred seven to nine months: Supreme 100-115 lbs 155.00-165.00. Choice 1-3 60-75 lbs 172.501100.00-1225.00, Approved 800.00-1035.00, Medium few 184.00; 89-90 lbs 172.50-175.00. crossbreds 752.00-810.00. Heifers bred three to six months: Supreme 1135.00-1270.00, Replacement Ewes: Medium and Large 1-2 65-110 lbs 135.00164.00; 121-148 lbs 70.00-110.00. few Jerseys 1075.00-1200.00, Approved 800.00-1025.00, Families: Ewes with single or twin lambs 135.00-175.50 Per crossbreds 835.00-950.00, Medium few 600.00-685.00, few family. crossbreds 685.00, Common few Jerseys 450.00-550.00, few Slaughter Wool Ewes: Utility and Good 2-3 75-180 lbs crossbreds 525.00-590.00. 51.00-80.00. Heifers bred one to three months: Approved 785.00-925.00, Slaughter Hair Ewes: Utility and Good 2-3 70-108 lbs 80.00pkg 2 crossbreds 925.00, Medium ind 600.00, ind crossbred 87.50; 122-150 lbs 54.00-67.50. Utility and Good 1-3 55-110 600.00, Common 500.00-525.00. Open Heifers: Approved: 246-282 lbs 230.00-330.00, 302-385 lbs 45.00-60.00. Replacement Rams: Medium and Large 1-2 87-125 lbs 120.00lbs 340.00-350.00, crossbreds 400.00-445.00, 415-487 lbs 152.50. 350.00-460.00. crossbreds 460.00-560.00, 530-598 lbs 500.00550.00, crossbreds 460.00-560.00, ind crossbred 590 lbs 800.00, Slaughter Rams: Good 1-2 105-250 lbs 61.00-82.50. Feeder Kids: Selection 1 25-39 lbs 230.00-245.00. Selection 2 607-695 lbs 550.00-680.00, few crossbreds 560.00-620.00, 25-29 lbs 180.00-200.00. Selection 3 29-30 lbs 120.00-152.50. 710-770 lbs 630.00-725.00, ind Jersey 700.00, few crossbreds few bottle babies: Selection 2-3 17.00-37.00 Per Head. 775.00-820.00. Slaughter Goats: Selection 1 50-70 lbs 290.00-305.00; 75 lbs Medium: 270-282 lbs crossbreds 245.00-250.00, 540-590 lbs 255.00. Selection 2 40-65 lbs 260.00-285.00. Selection 3 50-55 230.00-470.00, 665-675 lbs few 380.00-430.00. lbs 100.00-136.00; 88 lbs 125.00. Replacement Cows: Fresh and Milking Cows: Supreme ind Replacement Does, few: Selection 1 80 lbs 300; 93 lbs 230.00; 1175.00, ind Jersey 1075.00, ind crossbred 1135.00, Approved few 900.00-975.00, Medium few 700.00-775.00, Common few 165 lbs 112.50; 166 lbs 145.00. Families: Selection 2 does with single or twin kids: 165.00crossbreds 430.00-560.00. 180.00 Per Family. Springer Cows: Approved few Jerseys 825.00-900.00, ind crossbred 850.00, Medium ind 700.00. Bred Cows: Approved ind crossbred 900.00. Medium few 120 Jerseys 650.00-775.00. Common ind 510.00, ind Jersey 500.00.

100

70tion Sele Rep Slau Diamond, Mo. • TS Whites Sheep and Goat Sale 5/17/18 Sele Receipts: 939 Rep Supply was good and demand was moderate with about Slau half the seats in the house full throughout the sale. Most 260 markets held a seasonal downward trend with hair lambs Sele being steady to 10 cents lower, wool lambs 20-40 cents lower, kid markets were down 20-40 cents with some feeder kids being as much as 50 cents lower. Ewe and ram markets were steady to 20 cents lower, buck and doe markets held steady to 30 cents lower. Supply was Nati made up of about 35 percent kid goats, 13 percent Does and Bucks, 34 percent lambs, and 14 percent ewes and Che The rams. All prices are per hundred weight (CWT) unless $1.6 noted otherwise. Flu SHEEP: stea Feeder hair Lambs: Medium and Large 1-2 40-55 lbs inta 200.00-215.00. Medium and Large 2-3 34-53 lbs 160.00Nat 180.00. Medium and Large 3-4 28-52 lbs 130.00-155.00. dec Wool lambs: Medium and Large 1-2 50-53 lbs 160.00clos 175.00. Medium and Large 2-3 29-42 lbs 140.00-155.00. read Slaughter wool lambs: Choice and Prime 2-4 60-75 lbs who 165.00-187.50; 85 lbs 150.00; 105-110 lbs 117.50-120.00. crea Slaughter Hair Lambs: Choice and Prime 2-4 63-75 lbs 180.00-195.00; 80-81 lbs 170.00-175.00. Choice 1-3 60-75 som exp lbs 165.00-175.00; 90-95 lbs 125.00-145.00. Replacement Ewes: Few Hair, Medium and Large 2-3 83- seas East 110 lbs 105.00-145.00. Several Families of hair ewes with single or twin lambs: SPO BU 50.00-90.00 Per Head. $2.9 Slaughter Ewes, mostly hair: Utility and Good 2-3 83140 lbs 60.00-95.00. Slaughter Wool ewes: Utility and Good 2-3 95-210 lbs 30.00-57.50. Single Replacement Hair Ram: White Dorper 160 lbs 130.00. Slaughter Hair Rams: 157-190 lbs 45.00-70.00. GOATS: Feeder kids: Several bottle babies: Selection 1 55.0070.00 Per Head. Selection 2 30.00-50.00 Per Head. Selection 3 5.00-25.00 Per Head. Feeder kids: Selection 1 32-35 lbs 240.00-245.00. Selection 2 30-39 lbs 200.00-225.50. Selection 3 30-36 lbs 120.00-160.00. Slaughter Kids: Selection 1 40-68 lbs 280.00-295.00;

stocker & feeder

Cattlemen’s Livestock*

---------

Benton Co. - Siloam Springs 5/31/18 1,181

5/30/18 957

Cleburne Co. - Heber Springs ---------

County Line Sale Ratcliff 5/30/18 204

-----

Uneven

-----

Uneven

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

186.00-209.00 164.00-177.00 148.00-164.00 148.00 -----

158.00-181.00 148.00-166.00 142.00-167.00 132.00-150.50 135.00-138.00

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

168.00-173.00 161.00-171.00 154.00-170.00 140.00-165.00 136.00

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

179.00-208.00 155.00-171.00 142.00-157.00 133.00-144.00 -----

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

----142.00-156.00 142.00-156.00 127.00-143.00 131.00-135.00

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

154.00-165.00 138.00-163.00 129.00-146.00 120.00-130.00 115.00-119.00

138.00-161.00 130.00-156.00 122.00-152.00 121.00-132.00 -----

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

154.00-155.00 147.00-154.00 136.50-147.00 133.00-135.00 121.00-125.00

127 5(3257(' 121( 5(3257('

sheep & Buffalo, Mo. • Buffalo Livestock Market

dairy cattle

80.00-94.00*

Welch Stockyards

cattle

Midwest - High Plains Direct Slaughter Cattle

Slaughter Does: Selection 2 55-130 lbs 114.00-130.00. Selection 3 60-120 lbs 85.00-110.00. Slaughter Bucks: Selection 2 75-140 lbs 140.00-167.50. Selection 3 88-110 lbs 130.00-135.00.

Decatur Livestock*

prices

Farmer’s Stockyards Springdale 6/1/18 330

Fort Smith Stockyards

---------

Farmer’s & Ranchers Vinita, Okla.* 5/30/18 553

---------

I-40 Livestock Ozark 5/31/18 562

Joplin Regional Stockyards ---------

-----

Uneven

-----

Uneven

-----

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

188.00-192.00 168.00-188.00 162.00-168.00 ---------

200.00 160.00-177.00 ----142.50 -----

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

181.00-197.50 157.50-175.00 157.50-169.00 148.00-154.00 -----

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

165.00-172.50 158.00-172.00 143.00-161.00 135.00 118.00-126.50

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

----141.00-165.00 131.00-159.00 126.00-145.00 121.00-126.00

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

163.00-170.00 144.00-163.00 138.00-144.00 ---------

160.00-168.00 138.00-151.00 130.00-134.00 122.00-132.00 -----

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

157.50-197.50 137.50-175.00 130.00-146.00 123.00-140.00 124.00-127.00

12 6$/( +2/,'$<

Ash Flat Livestock Not Reported † Benton County Sale Barn 71.00-87.50 † Cattlemen’s Livestock Auction 65.00-88.50* Cleburne County Livestock - Heber Springs No Sale - Holiday † County Line Sale - Ratcliff 73.00-75.00 † Decatur Livestock Auction Not Reported* Farmer’s & Ranchers - Vinita None Reported* Farmer’s Stockyards - Springdale 68.00-87.00 † Fort Smith Stockyards No Sale - Holiday † I-40 Livestock - Ozark 70.00-85.00 † Joplin Regional Stockyards 67.00-95.00 † Mid-State Stockyards 65.00-84.00* North Arkansas Livestock 72.00-80.00 † OKC West - El Reno No Sale - Holiday † Ouachita Livestock Auction - Ola 67.00-83.00 † Ozarks Regional Stockyard 70.00-94.50 † Stilwell Livestock Auction 65.00-79.00* Tulsa Livestock Auction No Sale - Holiday †

Baby Calves: Holstein heifers 100.00-160.00, Holstein bulls 140.00-180.00, small 95.00-120.00, Jersey heifers ind 160.00, Jersey bulls 35.00-50.00, crossbred heifers-few 130.00-180,00, 6/3/18 crossbred bulls 130.00-200.00.

127 5(3257('

Arkansas Cattle Auction

64.00-80.00 †

USDA Reported * Independently Reported

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

JUNE 11, 2018

12 6$/( +2/,'$<

bulls

12 6$/( +2/,'$<

slaughter

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

Mi Stoc

165 158 150 138 130

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

145 138 130 120 115

500

7.50-197.50 7.50-175.00 0.00-146.00 3.00-140.00 4.00-127.00

Blyt

le hevil

5.27

5.30

5.32

5.00

3.96

Hele

3.98

Elain

eola

Osc

Little

Roc

156.68 154.35

144.19 134.50 150.06 143.17

* 162.76

147.26 139.76

158.35

133.86

153.25 Week of 5/13/18

* 164.77 155.73 ** 155.79

134.96 143.82 135.77 ** 142.00 134.07

144.82

2000

135.73

150.01

131.86

150.49

138.12

161.62

142.23

164.97 **

151.65

166.66 **

132.35

159.66

2500

** 161.84 145.00 169.01 158.00

** 138.04 134.48 134.41 138.42 135.12

146.88

Ouachita Livestock Ola, Ark. 6/1/18 443

Ozarks Regional West Plains 5/29/18 3,047

Stilwell Livestock Auction* 5/30/18 561

Tulsa Livestock Auction ---------

Welch Stockyards*

5/28/18 549

OKC West - El Reno, Okla. 5/29/18 12,115

-----

Steady

St-5 Higher

St-3 Higher

Uneven

-----

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

165.00-180.00 158.00-174.00 150.00-168.00 138.00-150.00 130.00-139.00

180.00-200.00 167.00-185.00 153.00-172.00 136.50-159.00 -----

192.50 178.00-180.00 160.00-182.00 140.00-163.00 141.00-149.75

167.00-190.00 156.00-170.00 158.00-168.00 156.00 138.00

188.00-200.00 168.00-181.00 162.00-175.00 146.00-160.00 137.00-148.00

185.00-204.00 155.00-168.00 142.00-167.00 133.00-149.00 101.00-111.00

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

180.00-189.00 170.00-185.00 150.00-171.00 140.00-157.00 130.00-137.00

***

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

170.00-200.00 152.00-174.00 145.00-153.50 134.00-145.00 -----

----155.00 151.00 148.00 -----

----140.00-147.00 135.00-151.00 130.00-137.00 -----

164.00-177.00 147.00-165.00 145.00-152.00 142.00 -----

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

165.00-182.00 150.00-173.00 135.00-158.00 130.00-141.00 115.00-128.00

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

145.00-164.00 138.00-144.00 130.00-142.00 120.00-136.00 115.00-122.00

152.00-164.00 143.00-157.00 130.00-146.25 130.00-135.00 120.00-124.00

----153.00-166.00 133.00-163.00 127.00-149.00 121.75-134.00

152.00-165.00 133.00-154.00 130.00-145.00 117.00-130.00 119.00

168.00-170.00 140.00-156.00 137.00-151.00 136.00-138.00 123.50

145.00-158.00 136.00-154.00 131.00-142.00 119.00-129.00 100.00-124.00

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

145.00-166.00 140.00-159.00 135.00-148.00 126.00-138.00 115.00-125.00

JUNE 11, 2018

142.96 140.43

170.80

N. Ark. Livestock Green Forest 5/30/18 2,132

155.15

135.83 *

152.11

138.29

154.74

5/29/18 804

148.73

167.63

** 153.19

167.59 ***

137.63

159.25 *** Week of 5/27/18

Mid-State Stockyards*

138.87

169.52

pairs

1500

139.83

152.48

No Sale - Holiday † 800.00-1300.00 † 1150.00-1400.00 †

1000

148.66

Week of 5/6/18

162.69 147.73

2500

None Reported †

500

139.41

159.10

2000

Not Reported * None Reported * 845.00-1000.00 †

Welch Stockyards

145.65

165.03

Mid-State Stockyard 850.00-1275.00 * North Arkansas Livestock - Green Forest 1385.00-1400.00 † OKC West - El Reno No Sale - Holiday † Ouachita Livestock 735.00-890.00 † Ozarks Regional Stockyardd 750.00-1625.00 † Stilwell Livestock Auction 1100.00-1410.00 * Tulsa Livestock Auction No Sale - Holiday †

3.69

145.80 139.63

134.97

12 6$/( +2/,'$<

----1.00-165.00 1.00-159.00 6.00-145.00 1.00-126.00

3.94

Joplin Regional Stockyards ---------

12 6$/( +2/,'$<

1.00-197.50 7.50-175.00 7.50-169.00 8.00-154.00 -----

5.30

ices

Uneven

9.86

154.76

1500

***

*** 160.62 157.50 160.21

*** 133.95 136.25 144.35 134.43

149.80 155.19

136.85

132.11

***

*** 167.63

110

Apr. 18 May 18

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

154.50

760.00-1160.00 *

Mar. 18

heifers 550-600 LBS.

169.31

No Sale - Holiday †

Farmer’s Stockyards Fort Smith Stockyard I-40 Livestock - Ozark Joplin Regional Stockyards

Jan. 18 Feb. 18

157.00

550.00-1350.00 † None Reported*

Decatur Livestock Auction Farmer’s & Ranchers - Vinita

Sorghum

10.10

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

No Sale - Holiday †

1000

Oct. 17 Nov. 17 Dec. 17

steers 550-600 LBS.

Arkansas Cattle Auction 925.00-1075.00 † Ash Flat Livestock Not Reported † Benton County Sale Barn 800.00-1000.00 † Cattlemen’s Livestock Auction 1150.00 * Cleburne County Livestock - Heber Springs No Sale - Holiday † County Line Sale - Ratcliff None Reported †

on 1 40-68 lbs 280.00-295.00;

I-40 estock Ozark 5/31/18 562

10.09

July 17 Aug. 17 Sept. 17

Week of 5/20/18

ottle babies: Selection 1 55.00on 2 30.00-50.00 Per Head. SelecHead. 1 32-35 lbs 240.00-245.00. Selec-225.50. Selection 3 30-36 lbs

Corn

June 17

(Week of 5/27/18 to 6/2/18)

Daily Report 6/5/18

Soft Wheat

$80

560.00-880.00 †

cow/calf

avg. grain prices Soybeans

$120

Week of 5/6/18

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

Utility and Good 2-3 95-210 lbs

157-190 lbs 45.00-70.00.

$160

PricesPrices reported per cwt Prices reported reported per percwt cwt

Arkansas Cattle Auction 700.00-1025.00 † Ash Flat Livestock Not Reported † Benton County Sale 650.00-960.00 † Cattlemen’s Livestock Auction 1075.00 * Cleburne County Livestock - Heber Springs No Sale - Holiday † County Line Sale - Ratcliff 51.00-99.00 † Prices reported per cwt Decatur Livestock Auction Not Reported* Farmer’s & Ranchers - Vinita None Reported * Farmer’s Stockyards 600.00-930.00 † Fort Smith Stockyards No Sale - Holiday † I-40 Livestock 550.00-1100.00 † 450.00-1300.00 † Joplin Reg Mid-State Stockyardss 600.00-1150.00 * North Arkansas Livestock 700.00-1035.00 †

dairy sales

air Ram: White Dorper 160 lbs

cows

(Week of 5/27/18 to 6/2/18)

$200

Week of 5/13/18

70-80 lbs 250.00-260.00; 85-160 lbs 120.00-155.00. Selection 2 42-70 lbs 250.00-275.00; 70-105 lbs 120.00-155.00. Selection 3 43-50 lbs 125.00-160.00. Replacement does: Selection 1 70-125 lbs 145.00-180.00. Slaughter Does: Selection 1 few 160-170 lbs 65.00-75.00. heep and Goat Sale 5/17/18 Selection 2 and 3 60-135 lbs 100.00-135.00. Replacement Bucks: Selection 1 125 lbs 120.00. emand was moderate with about Slaughter Bucks: Selection 1 70-90 lbs 135.00-145.00; use full throughout the sale. Most 260 lbs 85.00. Selection 2 90-185 lbs 100.00-115.00. al downward trend with hair lambs Selection 3 65-105 lbs 75.00-90.00. ts lower, wool lambs 20-40 cents e down 20-40 cents with some uch as 50 cents lower. Ewe and dy to 20 cents lower, buck and y to 30 cents lower. Supply was National Dairy Market at a Glance 6/1/18 ercent kid goats, 13 percent Does lambs, and 14 percent ewes and Cheese: Barrels closed at $1.5200 and 40# blocks at $1.5975. The weekly average for barrels is $1.5444 (-.0116) and blocks, r hundred weight (CWT) unless $1.6081 (-.0204). Fluid Milk: Across the country, farm milk production is generally steady to higher except for California and Arizona, were milk edium and Large 1-2 40-55 lbs intakes are down principally due to higher temperatures. m and Large 2-3 34-53 lbs 160.00Nationwide, milk components, protein and fat, are slowly arge 3-4 28-52 lbs 130.00-155.00. decreasing. Bottled milk sales are down as most schools are and Large 1-2 50-53 lbs 160.000 closing for the summer break. In general, condensed skim is arge 2-3 29-42 lbs 140.00-155.00. readily available for most processing needs. However, condensed Choice and Prime 2-4 60-75 lbs whole milk volumes look to be tight for drying. Meanwhile, 50.00; 105-110 lbs 117.50-120.00. cream volumes are sufficient to make butter, ice cream and Choice and Prime 2-4 63-75 lbs bs 170.00-175.00. Choice 1-3 60-75 some other Class II products. Nevertheless, cream availability is expected to decrease considerably during the upcoming summer 5 lbs 125.00-145.00. w Hair, Medium and Large 2-3 83- season. Cream multiples for all Classes range 1.18-1.32 in the East, 1.21-1.25 in the Midwest, and 1.05-1.27 in the West. r ewes with single or twin lambs: SPOT PRICES OF CLASS II CREAM, $ PER POUND BUTTERFAT F.O.B. producing plants: Upper Midwest $2.9494 - $3.0219. y hair: Utility and Good 2-3 83-

550-600 lb. steers

Week of 5/20/18

replacement

on 2 55-130 lbs 114.00-130.00. Selec10.00. on 2 75-140 lbs 140.00-167.50. Selec135.00.

12 Month Avg. -

$240

Week of 5/27/18

es reports

USDA Reported * Independently Reported

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

145.67 245

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

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

The Swan Bros. Dairy has been in business for more than 90 years. Pictured above are Harley Swan Jr., and his daughter Diane Williamson making Colby cheese in the 1980s. At upper right, a delivery truck owned by Harley Swan, Sr., in the 1930s. At middle right, Swan Sr., is pictured with his Jersey cows in the 1930s. At lower right, Swan Jr., in the dairy barn. At right, Ruby and Harley Swan, Sr.,

Nearly A Century of Dairy Farming Continued from Page 12 in-depth look of the ins and outs of the dairy. Last summer, more than 1,500 visitors took part in the farm tours. “The farm tours are a huge hit,” Zach said. “The public wants to learn more about the farm-to-table process. It’s also a great way to teach others about how a dairy operates, answer questions and generate interest about agriculture.” Although Swan Bros. Dairy’s herd originally was comprised of Holsteins, Brown Swiss and Jersey cattle have been introduced to the herd over time. The addition

of Brown Swiss was intended to improve bloodlines for future dairy livestock exhibition, while Jerseys increased overall butterfat content for better cheese production. The dairy’s herd consists of 50 percent Holstein/Jersey cross, 35 percent Holstein, 10 percent Jersey and 5 percent Brown Swiss. Zach artificially inseminates each cow. According to Zach, crossing the Holstein and Jersey breeds results in higher components and higher milk weight. “The first generation cross is really good, but I am still figuring out where to go for the best production after that,” he said. Zach said cows are monitored closely every day to ensure their health and happiness. During milking, heifers are pre-dipped with

a peroxide-based cleaning solution, which is applied to the teats to clean debris and remove bacteria. Dairy workers hand milk teats to flush out the teat canals, wipe with a clean towel, and then attach the milker. The dairy implements a substantial health and vaccination protocol with a veterinarian for cows needing veterinary care. Ashley Hollingsworth, Zach’s wife and daughter of Don and Diane Williamson, recenlty graduated with her doctorate of veterinary medicine and plans to perform all the veterinary work for Swan Bros. Dairy. Because the dairy’s land is used to produce premium quality products, no herbicides or insecticides are used. Rather, the land is brush hogged throughout the summer with fertilizer coming from harrowing and the la-

Ozarks Farm & Neighbor • www.ozarksfn.com

goon and cheese whey. One field in particular was once all clover and retains an exceptionally high clover content. That field typically provides four cuttings annually and is an important part of the 900 bales the dairy produces for hay self-sufficiency. Swan Bros. Dairy is a growing enterprise with a bright future. The dairy is looking toward opening an on-site restaurant and producing whey-fed pork, a highly regarded delicacy originally produced in France. “We have lots of ideas to continue the growth of our dairy,” Zach said. “We want to continue meeting the needs of our current customers and look for ways to reach new ones. I’m proud of the accomplishments we’ve made and look forward to what the future will hold for Swan Bros. Dairy.” JUNE 11, 2018

meet your neighbors

A Budding Dairy Operation

Photos by Larry Burchfield

By Larry Burchfield

The Hughes family have been surprised by the demand for their raw milk and cheese Two things are certain on the chance to buy and move back closer to Hughes’ farm just outside Da- home. In fact, the whole farming thing mascus, Ark., there is always was a novelty, but the Hughes have had something to do, and thanks to a crash course in farming. “Elaine wanted a little bit of everything four kids, ages 13 and younger, there is never a dull moment. to provide some basic ‘farm products’ But owners Jason and Elaine would not for the family,” explained Jason. “A few chickens for eggs, a Jersey cow or two for have it any other way. There is a little bit of everything on the milk, rabbits, horses and a few guineas to farm, beef cows, dairy cows, sheep, ducks, keep the place free of insects. You name chickens and geese. But perhaps the most it, we probably have it on the farm.” The 100-acre farm comes with a lot unusual thing about this family farm, it has only been operation a little over two years. of history. It has the original root-cellar The Hughes moved back to the Damas- constructed around 1914, and a cabin cus, Ark., area two years ago after spend- that, according to Elaine, serves as Jaing several years in the oil business in son’s man-cave. The farm even had an old dairy barn Texas. With four young children, Jason and Elaine felt it was time to move back built in the 1940, which the Hughes closer to their roots and their parents. But have renovated to milk their small Jersey dairy herd, complete with a full-time farming was not on new red metal roof. the agenda at the time. Jason also has a John Deere A Neither Jason nor Elaine Damascus, Ark. tractor his dad restored that can were around farming growbe used as a backup if needed. ing up. But as adults, it was One of the most prized possessions something they always wanton the farm is the dinner bell pured to do. So, when the farm chased by Jason’s great-great grandfacame up, they jumped at the

JUNE 11, 2018

Jason and Elaine Hughes, pictured with their children, Brian, Morgan, Rebekah and Carson, began Red Roof Dairy only two years ago.

ther. The bell cast in 1886 and is mounted “Facebook has been a huge tool for us,” along the sidewalk in front of their house. Elaine said. “But, word of mouth has The dairy part of the operation has been been good also. We really concentrate the biggest surprise so far. The original plan on the quality of our products, going the was to have a couple of Jersey cows to pro- extra mile for testing and processing. It vide raw milk and cheese for the family. It has really paid off for us. didn’t take long for word of mouth to spread The Hughes four children are not imthe news about the mune to the rigors of quality of the Hughes life on the farm. Re“We really dairy products. Thus, bekah (13) and Morconcentrate on the gan (9), Brian (7) and the Red Roof Dairy was officially started. Cason (6), all have duquality of our The herd is up to four products, going the ties on the farm. cows and a fifth cow Rebekah and Morextra mile for will probably be added gan had daunting soon. With the increase chores last spring as testing and in the dairy business, they raised 100 bottle processing. It has Jason is finding it more calves. While feeding difficult to allocate his really paid off for us.” came early and late, time between his dozer/ and had to revolve – Elaine Hughes backhoe business and around their school the dairy. Elaine faces the ultimate time work, they were up to the task. management challenge of family, farm and “The girls would get up every morning a day job with Nabholz Construction in at 5:30 and fed those 100 calves (before Conway, Ark. school).” Elaine said.” They would feed “We were totally shocked by the response them again when they got home. It was for our milk,” said Jason. “We get several tough on those cold mornings, especially calls every day asking about our milk and with snow on the ground, but it was recheese. It is just about a full-time job for me. warding for them and they plan to do it We have more equipment on order to help again this fall.” process all the orders, and we are probably Sons Brian and Cason may still be a going to buy another Jersey soon” little young, but they have chores just for Social networking and word of mouth them and are anxiously waiting in the have been the big marketing tools for wings for their turn to pitch in. Looks like the Red Roof Dairy. they will have plenty to keep them busy.

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

meet your neighbors

Goats and a Higher Calling

Photo by Katrina Hine

By Katrina Hine

A passion for dairy goats and education has opened many doors for Grays Lland Acres and the Graysons Author Abe Lemons once stated, “The trouble with retirement is that you never get a day off,” and for one Pryor, Okla., couple this saying stands true to realty. Steve and Myra Grayson grew up in the Pryor area, graduating from the same area high school, even dating for a time. Nevertheless, as fate would have it, their paths crossed again 35 years later and this is where the unique goat story begins. Myra grew up on a dairy farm just down the road from the couple’s 20-acre mini-farm, Grays Lland Acres, located 10 miles east of Pryor. The property is home to llamas, goats, various breeds of chickens, ducks and domestic quail. All of which, provide some sort of commodity which the couple sells on-site. The couple wanted to become more self-sufficient and so they started out with two meat goats, but little did they know that this simple plan would cascade into something bigger – something with a divine purpose. One fateful day, a dog killed one goat and injured the other. Determined to replace their meat goats, they traveled to a farm advertising meat goats for sale. “We went looking for meat goats and there was this ugly milk goat nanny with a deformed horn,” Myra said with a grin. “I asked if she was for sale, but the man

Myra Grayson said some women are known to shop for shoes, but she shops for goats. Myra and her husband, Steve, own Grays Lland Acers near Pryor, Okla., and have recently been accepted into the Oklahoma Ag in the Classroom program.

said, ‘No, she’s my best supplier of milk for orphaned kids.’ Something just drew me to her, so we ended up buying her and taking her home.” From that point on, Myra became hooked on dairy goats. While most women shop for shoes, Myra has been known to shop for goats, earning her the nickname, “The Crazy Goat Lady.” Over the last eight years, Steve and Myra have had upPryor, Okla. wards of 25 goats at one time. Although they currently have 13 and are milking four, they plan to utilize their new

crop of kids to increase the milk herd. The herd is a mix of Alpine, Nubian, Saanen and LaMancha. The Nubian and Saanen goats tend to have more butterfat, while the LaMancha’s milk has a sweeter flavor. Milking the different breeds gives a unique taste and texture to the milk for a variety of uses. “Steve doesn’t like my sister and I to go shopping for goats anymore because once I went to look at two and came home with six,” Myra said with a chuckle. Steve said they are “fair weather breeders” – breeding their nannies so kids are born the end of March or first of April. It did not take long to figure out that she needed to find something to do with the excess milk. And of course, Myra

Ozarks Farm & Neighbor • www.ozarksfn.com

turned to the modern oracle – the internet. She began making cheese and selling some of the milk to visitors. Nevertheless, the most important aspect of the goat operation is not the milk products, but the fragrant soaps, lotions, lip balms and doggie shampoos crafted by Myra in her soap house adjacent to the goat pens. Starting out with only two types: plain and oatmeal, Myra has increased her selection to 20 different scents. The enchanting scents drift from the soap house door, greeting visitors to the property. Myra, retired from educational materials sales, was determined to unite her passion for farm life with education by providing tours to various groups. As member producers with the Oklahoma Agritourism JUNE 11, 2018

Submitted Photo

meet your neighbors

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and the Made in Oklahoma programs, they have hosted groups as large as 50 visitors, from ages 2 years to adults. Recently, they applied and were accepted into the Oklahoma Ag in the Classroom program and will be presenting educational programming to area schools. Even though making soap is a habit she cannot seem to break, Myra admits there are days she wonders why she goes to all the trouble and expense. It wasn’t until a trip to the Tulsa State Fair six years ago that she understood there was a higher calling for her goat milk soap and passion for education, little did she know it would take her across an ocean to Africa. “A couple came into my booth and were looking around at my products,” Myra recalled. “I thought they were interested in making their own soap, so I told them that I did classes. But instead they said they wanted me to go to Kenya to teach widows how to make soap to generate income.” So, began a relationship with the ministry Centerwill, located in Broken Arrow, Okla., traveling twice a year to assist widows who are considered outcasts in developing entrepreneurial skills.

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

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

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“I wanted to show and had to be in 4-H in order to do that at that Conway County Fair. I was 7 and really nervous when I first went two 4-H because I grew up on a farm and I wasn’t used to groups of people. Doing presentations helped me get over my shyness, especially the first one about pigs which is what I was showing at the time. I guess the most important thing I’ve learned from 4-H is that it’s okay to talk to people without being afraid and acting shy.”

Favorite 4-H awards: “I really like showing and have done a lot of it. Two of my favorites awards were winning first in showmanship with pigs and then Reserve Grand Champion pig at the Conway County Fair.” What do you like about showing?

“For me, the best part is bonding with the animals before I ever get to the show ring and then using that bond in competition which makes us both show better. We focus on each other and are calmer.”

What do you do to help out on the farm?

“I work on the farm every day and help feed hay and grain as well as checking baby calves. When we work cattle, I bring them in. Working with animals always makes me happy.”

What are your future plans?

*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. Offer 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. Offer subject to change or cancellation without notice. © 2018 CNH Industrial Capital America LLC. All rights reserved. New Holland Agriculture is a trademark registered in the United States and many other countries, owned by or licensed to CNH Industrial N.V., its subsidiaries or affiliates. CNH Industrial Capital is a trademark in the United States and many other countries, owned by or licensed to CNH Industrial N.V., its subsidiaries or affiliates.

“We use ET on our ranch and that has made me want to be an embryologist and maybe work with my dad. I might start at Arkansas Tech in animal science and then go to Oklahoma State University to finish my bachelor degree as well as to get my embryology degree. I find that part of working with animals really interesting, and it’s a good job.”

Ozarks Farm & Neighbor • www.ozarksfn.com

JUNE 11, 2018

the ofn

Need A ag-visors Refreshment?

Advice from

the professionals

The Udder Side

By Dr. Tim O’Neill

ver wonder what a veterinarian actually does? Yes, we treat animals, medically, do surgery, vaccinate and make production recommendations. But, when you go deeper and really look at what a veterinarian actually does, it is protecting the public. Our main objective is to protect public safety. There are many ways we do that.

have not had a problem with delta corona virus in hogs which is the PED diarrhea in baby pigs. We are also Brucellosis and TB free. This is what health papers protect.

We are the main food inspectors.

Now these diseases are very costly to agriculture and everyone involved. Even our consumer will see a rise in price of food due to one of these diseases slipping in. It is projected that if foot and mouth slipped in it could cost agriculture in the neighborhood of $60 billion within three to four weeks of being here.

Veterinarians are also on the front lines to recognize foreign animal diseases that may slip in.

Dr. Tim E. O’Neill, DVM, We actually have a division of the USDA owns Country Veterinary called FSIS (Food Safety Inspection SerService in Farmington, vice), which runs the inspection service Ark. To contact Tim go of all of our food. This is headed up and to ozarksfn.com and run by veterinarians. These inspectors are click on ‘Contact Us.’ watching for diseased animals and animals ADT or animal disease tainted with drugs and there job is to keep traceability assistance. them from getting into our food chain. None of us want to eat This is where we follow a disease in animals back to the a meal with diseased meat or tainted with pharmaceuticals. source. This is very important to figure out how and where it We recognize communicable diseases started.

such as rabies, TB, Lepto, Bordetella and others, too, numerous to mention.

Our government has put all veterinarians on notice to be diligent about watching out for bioterrorism in animals. (Anthrax, Smallpox, Foot and Mouth and others). These diseases could cost agriculture Billions within just a few weeks.

To help our farmers stay hydrated during hay season, Ozarks Farm & Neighbor is looking for some beverage recipes to feature in our publication. Send in your favorite lemonade, tea, flavored water, punch, shake or smoothie recipes and look for it to appear in our upcoming issues.

editor@ozarksfn.com PO Box 6 Prairie Grove, AR 72753 417-532-4721 fax

We also help and assist in monitoring FAD, foreign animal disease, as a These diseases can go to people, so extra diligence needs to part of bioterrorism. be used. Monitor contagious animal diseases such as Trich, Brucellosis, and Bovine Spongiform Encephalitis (mad cow).

All of these can be financially devastating to our agricultural industry.

Advise for the proper use of antibiotics and withdrawal times for the drugs in specific species.

None of us want to eat antibiotic or tainted meat with foreign substances in the meat. And another example of this is if someone would eat a piece of meat tainted with an antibiotic that happens to be allergic to that drug; they could die before it was recognized and reversed. This could also be a way of creating super bug infections in people, i.e. MSRA.

Veterinarians also help with compliance with proper transport requirements of livestock from state to state.

We also assist in the enforcing quarantine of livestock while contagious disease testing is being done.

For disease such as EIA (Coggins), TB, atrophic rhinitis, vesicular stomatitis, Brucellosis, avian influenza, and Newcastle disease, to just mention a few. Yes, there are many more. As you can see there is a lot of responsibility in being a veterinarian. We do a lot for the agriculture industry. And now my question to you, who better suited to do chute side work for the industry? We are not there just to pregnancy examine your cow or examine a sick animal, but help insure the safety of the public. We are on the lookout for all of these other problems that might slip in.

This helps cut down on the movement of diseases throughout the United States. For example, here in Arkansas we still JUNE 11, 2018

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

farm

help

Making farming

a little easier

Developing Dairy Heifers By Klaire Howerton

Slower growing dairy heifers need to have the right start early in their lives to become productive cows Replacement dairy heifers play a pivotal role in keeping dairies up and running. Dairy heifers have a slower growth rate than their beef cattle counterparts, so ensuring that their nutritional needs are met during critical stages of development should be at the top of a producer’s herd management list. One resource for dairy producers who are working towards developing top notch heifers is the Dairy Calf and Heifer Association. This organization focuses on providing members with resources and education for improving herd health and raising well developed animals that fit their gold standards. “The Dairy Calf and Heifer Association gold standard has been declared that our dairy calves should double their weight from birth to 60 days of age,” said Reagan Bluel, University of Missouri Extension regional dairy Specialist. “Therefore, we expect an average 1.5 pounds of gain per day for Holsteins, and 1 pound of gain per day on Jersey calves.” “To achieve this rate of gain, we recommended an accelerated feeding program during the ‘hutch phase’ of life.

what do you say? How can farmers advocate for the dairy industry?

Accelerated refers to both the volume and concentration of milk delivered to the calf. Typical accelerated feeding programs increase the amount of dry milk and replace solids by 1.5 pounds, three times the conventional programs.” Accelerating the feeding program does not mean simply upping the amount of milk replacer – it means increasing the protein content of the calves’ diet to promote appropriate growth and development. “Research has shown that increasing conventional 20/20 (protein: fat) milk replacer will not achieve your goals,” said Bluel. “It is important to increase the protein fraction of the replacer to ensure a lean, skeletal growth on the frame of your heifer. Accelerated programs vary depending on the manufacturer – however, I recommend protein to range 26-28 percent while keeping fat at 15-20 percent.” While this accelerated feeding program seems costly, Dr. Michael Looper, animal science professor and department head at the University of Arkansas, encourages dairy producers to look ahead when considering this approach. “Feeding heifers for rapid gains costs more per day than feeding for low gains;

“One of the best ways is by educating young people in ag classes on the importance of the dairy industry, which makes them advocates.”

Ethan Propp Mayes County, Okla.

however, development of replacement heifers is an investment in the future,” he said. “First-lactation cows significantly contribute to herd production and profit. A recommended goal for dairy replacement heifers is to calve at 24 months of age with a targeted post – calving body weight of 1,250 pounds.” Bluel also encouraged producers to weigh the cost of such a program with the benefits. “This accelerated plane of nutrition does come at a cost,” she said. “However, research shows milk production of your first calf heifers is greatly impacted and will typically average 1,000 to 2,000 pounds of milk more than their conventionally fed counterparts.” Quality forage and pasture management can also play a role in well-developed dairy heifers. An article by the University of Missouri Extension, Dairy Grazing: Heifer Development, shared a study from the University of Vermont where 20 Holstein and crossbred calves were reared from 2 days of age until weaning on pasture under managementintensive grazing. The calves grazed Kentucky bluegrass and white clover starting at a height of 4 inches and grazed it to a

2-inch stubble height. Calves were each fed two gallons of milk per day, using barrels with New Zealand-style nipples and 2 pounds of a 19-percent crude protein calf starter. At weaning (about 60 days) the calves were separated by weight and breed into two groups, one of which received 2 pounds per day of 19 percent crude protein calf starter and the other 4 pounds. Both groups of heifers showed an average daily gain (ADG) of 1.5 pounds per day after weaning until the end of the grazing season. This trial would indicate that weaned heifers can show an adequate rate of gain, if 1.5 pounds ADG is acceptable, on highquality pasture after weaning. The most important aspect of a welldeveloped dairy heifer is her beginning. “Start her off right,” advised Bluel. “Even the best management conditions won’t fix a bad start. Ensure that every heifer on the farm receives adequate colostrum within the first 24 hours of life.” The colostrum should be of tested high quality and fed in adequate quantity. “If you’ve started your replacement heifers off on the right foot, continuing to maintain good development will be that much easier,” Bluel said.

“Rather than bringing grade school kids to the farm, I would suggest bringing dairy to the kids and demonstrating a cow being milked, a calf being bottle-fed, and perhaps making butter. Easier and safer for both the school and the farmer.”

“I think farmers can best advocate by insisting the playing field be leveled so that smaller dairies can successfully compete and have as much influence in the industry as larger dairies. Then dairying might be just down the road instead of across the state.”

Jennifer Clouse Washington County, Ark.

John Kropp Johnson County, Ark.

Ozarks Farm & Neighbor • www.ozarksfn.com

“Farmers can advocate for the dairy industry by keeping in mind the newest robotic milker technology which requires less overhead and brings more profit for smaller sized herds, perhaps even on their own land.” John Asbury Carroll County, Ark. JUNE 11, 2018

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Improving with Forages By Klaire Howerton

Quality forages can bump up milk averages in dairy herds Many dairy operations in the Ozarks are either pasture based or moving towards pasture based as a means of lowering production costs, reducing inputs and bettering the environment. With forages being a herd’s primary feedstuff, part of the management plan should include how to continually improve pastures for better production. “High quality, home grown, forages give successful dairy producers the competitive edge,” University of Missouri Extension Regional Dairy Specialist said. “Quality forage begins with digestibility — specifically fiber. Intake + intake + intake is the equation for milk production,” Bluel explained. “A cow is only able to consume 1.1 percent of her body weight in forage neutral detergent fiber (NDF). NDF increases as the plant becomes more mature, directly relating to a decrease in intake.” NDF reflects the bulkiness of a forage. Because forage fiber is bulky, there is a limit to the amount of NDF that will fit into a cow’s rumen (first stomach), according to the University of Missouri Extension. When that limit is reached, a cow will stop eating because there’s no more room until a significant portion of the fiber in the rumen is digested and/or passes on to the lower gut. Timing grazing programs according to the forage’s growth cycle will offer much greater results for milk production goals than if you ignore this aspect. “Focusing in on harvest and grazing timing will ensure highly digestible fibers, and maximum forage yields. This will prevent intake limitations due to fiber,” said Bluel. Keeping pastures as thick and lush as possible helps cows make the most out of each bite of forage they take. Bite size is primarily influenced by sward factors, such as grass height and density of pasture and the proportion of green leaf in the sward. If intake per bite declines, as it inevitably does on short swards, the behavioral constraints on JUNE 11, 2018

biting rate and grazing time mean a reduction in daily forage intake. The amount of time spent grazing increases as the amount of pasture decreases, which is why high producing cows need to be provided a dense sward with at least 6 to 8 inches pasture height depending on the type of grass. To optimize milk production and profitability, cows must be provided with pastures that allow them to consume a high intake. If the pasture is too short, cows will not have as much intake per bite, and they will spend energy and grazing time. If animals are forced to graze pasture below 2 to 3 inches, to a short stubble or residual height, this will likely reduce the pasture regrowth. Implementing rotational grazing practices, or management intensive grazing practices can help you ensure an adequate supply of quality forage cows can graze with minimal effort. Keeping soil nutrient levels high is imperative to improving forages and producing thick pasture swards. Phosphorus is a key nutrient when it comes to pasture-based dairies. “Phosphorus is a macronutrient and essential for plant growth,” Associate Professor of Animal Science with the University of Arkansas Dirk Philipp said. He explained there are ways to contain phosphorus on site as much as possible, and a more even manure distribution is one possibility. Monitoring soil fertility through regular soil sampling is very effective as well and allows the producers to apply any needed fertilizer. Improving forage quality does not only help to increase your milk production, it has additional benefits as well. “A diet with forage that meets the requirements of the herd will typically see a bump in butterfat,” said Bluel. “Adequate fibers in the diet ensuring a healthy rumen will result in improved fermentation/digestion. In addition to an increase in overall yield due to intake, we often see an increase in total butterfat produced.”

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farm help

Getting a Jump on Weed Control By Kristyn Richner

The life cycle of weeds should be monitored for the most effective eradication Now that spring is in full bloom, it’s time to gain control of the weed population in pastures. Annual weeds, both broadleaf and grass weeds, can lead to serious problems for both pastures and forages. Proper weed management this time of year is crucial. Weeds can be a tricky problem because there are many different definitions of a weed. The same plant may be considered a weed in one setting and may be beneficial in another. Ultimately, a weed is a plant that is growing where it is not wanted. The first step in proper weed management is knowing your enemy. Identifying weeds

can be a very difficult task. Many of them look similar but they do not all have the same mode of action. Weeds have different life cycles and growth habits, because of this, there is no one-size-fits-all solution to managing the weed population. However, if you don’t know what you’re going after, it’s going to be difficult to be successful. Weeds are easiest to control early in their life stage. Most weeds can be controlled best when they are less than 4 inches in height and diameter. Taking time to walk through pastures and focus on weed population will save a lot of time and money in the long run. It is not uncommon for

the same weed species to show up in a field year after year, so it’s important to recognize weeds early. If you have newly acquired land or are in the process of acquiring land, perform a thorough walk through and consider what kind of investment you are going to have to make in the soil to have adequate conditions for pasture or crop management. Many management techniques require specific weed life cycle details to aid in developing a control strategy. Thus after you have identified the weed you are dealing with, you need to determine what part of its life cycle or what stage of growth the weed is in. Depending on this additional information, a mode of action can be decided upon. Once the plant goes to seed, many of the modes of action will not be as effective. For this reason, it is important to limit the amount of seed that weeds produce. “Mowing, grazing or spraying weeds during flowering, or slightly before, will help to limit seed production,” Sarah Kenyon, University of Missouri Extension agronomy specialist, said.

Another important consideration would be soil fertility. “Healthy, productive soil will develop better forage,” said Kenyon. “Productive forage will do a better job at competing with the weeds.” In some circumstances mowing and grazing will not be effective and herbicide control will be most appropriate. Chemical control is most effective when applied to weeds that are again, less than 4 inches in height and diameter. When it comes to herbicide, it’s critical to know the growth stage because some weeds should be sprayed before flowering, while others can wait until after flowering. “For example, the best time to spray thistle is when it is in the rosette stage, before it bolts (the stem shoots up and it flowers), if a herbicide application is made after flowering, the plant is still likely to produce viable seed,” University of Missouri Extension Agronomy Specialist Jill Scheidt said. If seed is produced, then the risk is significantly elevated for the weed to return again and again.

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ozarks’ farm

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June 2018 15 Show Clinic – Franklin County Fairgrounds, Ozarks, Ark. – 479-667-3720 16 Master Gardeners “Summer of Blooms” – 8:30 a.m.-3 p.m. – First Presbyterian Church, 2250 Hwy 62 East, Yellville, Ark. – Cost: $25, lunch included – registration deadline June 4 – 870-449-6349 16 First Baptist Church-South 10th Annual Car Show – 11 a.m., Free event – Serving great fish and barbecue – First Baptist Church-South, Beggs, Okla. 19 Canning Class – registration at 8:30 a.m., class starts at 9 a.m. – limit of 12 attendees – St. Anne’s Catholic Church, Berryville, Ark – 870-423-2958 to register 21 Youth Conservation Day – registration begins at 9:30 a.m. – Activities all day including: archery, fishing education, monarch butterflies, trout anatomy, watershed, making tracks and water safety – free lunch provided by Arvest Bank – Fred Berry Conservation Education Center, Yellville, Ark. – 870-449-6349 21 Forage Series – fourth class – year round grazing and cool season grass management – Mayes County Ag Center, Pryor, Okla. – 918-253-4332 27 Canning Class – registration at 8:30 a.m., class starts at 9 a.m. – limit of 12 attendees – Jasper, Ark. – 870-446-2240 to register July 2018 3 Pesticide Applicator Training – 9 a.m. – Benton County Extension Office, Bentonville, Ark. – 479-271-1060 19-21 Porter Peach Festival – Downtown, Porter, Okla. – porterpeachfestivals.com August 2018 4 Logan County Fair Pagent - 4 p.m. – Logan County Fairgrounds, Paris, Ark. – 479-963-2360 14-18 Logan County Fair – Logan County Fairgrounds, Paris, Ark. – 479-963-2360 17-25 Ottawa County Fair – Ottawa County Fairgrounds, Miami, Okla. – 918-542-1688 19-26 Newton County Fair – Newton County Fairgrounds, Jasper, Ark. – 870-446-2240 20-25 Johnson County Fair – Johnson County Fairgrounds, Clarksville, Ark. – 479-754-2240 21-25 Sebastain County Fair – Sebastain County Fairgrounds, Greenwood, Ark. – 479-484-7737 21-25 Washington County Fair – Washington County Fairgrounds, Fayetteville, Ark. 25-9/1 Madison County Fair – Madison County Fairgrounds, Huntsville, Ark. – 479-738-6826 25-9/2 Carroll County Fair – Carroll County Fairgrounds, Berryville, Ark. – 870-423-2958 September 2018 3-6 Adair County Fair – Adair County Fairgrounds, Stilwell, Okla. – 918-696-2253 4-8 Cleburne County Fair – Cleburne County Fairgrounds, Heber Springs, Ark. – 501-362-2524 4-8 Delaware County Fair – Delaware County Fairgrounds, Jay, Okla. – 918-253-4332

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June 2018 29-30 10th Annual South Poll Grass Cattle Association Field Day and Auction – Wilber Farms, Bonnets Mill, Mo. – 256-996-3142

Cattlemen’s Seedstock Directory Angus Rocking A Ranch - Berryville, Ark. 870-480-7651 - 870-423-3567 parthurrockinga@hotmail.com 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

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ADAMS truSS, iNC.

CLEAR SPAN STEEL BUILDING TRUSSES

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24' - 60' Spans Complete Technical Support from Adams Truss

Add $7 per year for orders outside AR, OK, MO

DESIGNED FOR ECONOMY ENGINEERED FOR STRENGTH 12425 Collins Road Gentry, AR 72734

Williams Tractor

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

www.adamstruss.com 6/11/18

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

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

D L O S

NEW 70492 - 2017 LT Crew Cab, Blue, Srw, 1-Ton, Duramax

F80489A1 - 2016 GMC Sierra 2500 SLE Double Cab 4WD 6.0L V8 Gas Engine. Only 18,500 Miles Serviced and ready to go. - $36,999

T-70573 - Aluminum Roundup AL Aluminum floor mat package $15,300 or $268 per month W.A.C

We’re

BIG

on Heavy Duty Trucks!

SOLD

T-70818 & T-70718 - Last of the 17’s 20x6’8 Rubber Floor Torsion Axles 2 cut gates 4/8/8 cut and more. Only TWO left at this Price - $10,900

T-80075 - 2018 BigTex 22GN 25+5 With Mega Ramps, Tandem Duals and more $9,110

D L O S

70502A- 2013 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD WT 4WD T-80458 - 2018 CM 24” Brush Extended Cab 6.6L Duramax Buster, Torsion axles, Rubber Allison Transmission Vinyl Floors floor and more $10,900 only 57,000 Miles Serviced and ready to go. $33,995

D L O S

T-70642 - Drop down feed doors, Mat package $10,900 or $221 per month W.A.C

Absolute Top Dollar offered on all trades!

2018 80356 & 80352 - 2018 Silverado Cab and Chassis, Dual Rear Wheel, 1-Ton LT 6.6L Duramax. (Two to choose from 80356 pictured) - $61,595 Rebates and incentives change daily. Call for Best Price.

2018 P80351 - 2018 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD LT All Star Edition. Crew Cab 4WD Spray in bed liner, Running boards, XM radio, and Integrated trailer Brake Controller. Dealer Certified with less than 6,000 miles Serviced and ready to go. $44,000

Check Out More Of Our Inventory at WoodMotor.com

Fl M2 - Freight Liner Business Class model with Caterpillar Motor We Keep Several Trucks and an Allison Transmission. Air Outfitted with the DewEze Brakes, New Tires, and Recently Truck Beds In Stock! Serviced. $19,995

See why we are the area’s

1 Truck Volume Dealer!

# We stock the trailers farmers use most!

Financing Available!

Arkansas’ No. 1 Gooseneck Dealer

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

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

JUNE 11, 2018