

April 8, 2025
Official Publication of the Red Angus Association of America Volume 61, Number 3
18335 E 103rd Avenue, Suite 202 Commerce City, CO 80022
940-387-3502 • Fax 888-829-6069 RedAngus.org
Publisher/Advertising Director Tracey Koester 701-391-5440 • tracey@redangus.org
Editor Maclaine Shults-Mauney 785-448-0239 • brandi@redangus.org
Subscriptions and Circulation Christi Mangusso 940-387-3502, Ext. 7 • email: christi@redangus.org
Affiliated with National Cattlemen’s Beef Association Beef Improvement Federation U.S. Beef Breed’s Council National Pedigreed Livestock Council
GENERAL INFORMATION
Published 10 times annually by the Red Angus Association of America at the national headquarters (18335 E. 103rd Ave., Suite 202, Commerce City, CO 80022). A non-political magazine dedicated to the promotion and improvement of breeding, feeding and marketing Red Angus cattle. Subscription rate: U.S., 1 year - $30; 2 years - $50. Canada and Mexico, 1 year - $44, 2 years - $82 (Payable in U.S. Funds Only). International Air Mail, 1 year - $55; 2 years - $100 (Payable in U.S. Funds Only). These rates are based on Third Class Bulk mailed from Jefferson City, Missouri. Add $20 per year for First Class.
EDITORIAL AND ADVERTISING POLICY
Advertising and editorial content are not limited to any particular class of product or subject matter. However, we reserve the right to refuse publication of any material not within the bounds of high agricultural ethics. While we devote the utmost care to the preparation of each advertisement, we cannot be held responsible for ads received after the ad deadline. Furthermore, the accuracy and content of copy received over the telephone is entirely the responsibility of the advertiser. No adjustment for incorrect ad copy will be considered for ads that are received after the ad deadline or that are placed over the telephone.
All unused reserved advertising space that is not canceled by the advertising deadline will be billed to the advertiser.
ADVERTISING RATES –
1/4 Page
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PRESIDENT
Kyley DeVoe | Justin, Texas kyley@3klandandcattle.com
FIRST VICE PRESIDENT
AREA 4 DIRECTOR - SOUTHWEST
Tony Ballinger | Morgan Mill, Texas anthony.ballinger@adm.com
SECOND VICE PRESIDENT
AREA 7 DIRECTOR - NORTHEAST
Rob Hess | Hershey, Pennsylvania hessfarm@verizon.net
TREASURER
REGION C DIRECTOR
Jeff Pettit | Sebree, Kentucky jeff@diamondpcattle.com
AREA 2 DIRECTOR - MONTANA BOARD SECRETARY
Kay Klompien | Manhattan, Montana klmpnra@gmail.com
REGION A DIRECTOR
Keith Hickle | Auburn, Washington keith.a.hickle@gmail.com
REGION B DIRECTOR
Craig Bieber | Leola, South Dakota craig@bieberredangus.com
AREA 1 DIRECTOR - WEST
George Murdock | Pendleton, Oregon murdockcattle@gmail.com
AREA 3 DIRECTOR - ROCKY MOUNTAIN
Aaron Kravig | Karval, Colorado akravig@kravigredangus.com
AREA 5 DIRECTOR - NORTHERN PLAINS
Stephanie Jung | Mina, South Dakota lazyjbarranch@yahoo.com
AREA 6 DIRECTOR - GREAT PLAINS
Jason Anderson | Oberlin, Kansas jasonea9@hotmail.com
AREA 8 DIRECTOR - SOUTHEAST
Jim Yance | Columbia, Alabama jim@jyjredangus.com
AREA 9 DIRECTOR - MIDWEST
Will Andras | Manchester, Illinois andras@irtc.net
by Jeff Pettit, Region C – Treasurer
Over the past year, I had the privilege of serving as president of the Kentucky Cattlemen’s Association, which ranks second among state cattlemen’s associations in the U.S. following Texas.
We have more than 11,000 members, 14 full-time employees, a branded beef program that I believe supplies a major grocery chain and seven LLCs under our umbrella operated by the same staff. Why am I telling you this?
I share these details because, during my travels across the U.S. and overseas last year, I realized that although KCA ranks second in membership, our activities surpass those of any other state cattlemen’s association I have encountered.
“To enhance the value of our genetics, we must create pull-through demand to the consumer. ”
How did this come about?
About 25 years ago, KCA decided to think outside the traditional paradigm of state cattlemen’s associations. We focused on the organization’s sustainability – asking not only how to survive but also how do we thrive in the future. That mindset remains at the core of KCA. How is that relevant to RAAA?
1. RAAA long-term vision: Dominate the beef industry with Red Angus genetics. 2. RAAA Strategic Plan Critical Objective No.1: Create market demand – 20% of the U.S. beef cattle inventory will be Red Angus influenced by 2030.
When I joined the board seven years ago, it seemed that every discussion centered on bull sales, bull transfers, performance evaluations, genomics and similar topics. Although these issues are important for a breed association, were they truly the focus needed to ensure the long-term sustainability of the Red Angus breed and our association? Clearly not.
We had to change our approach.
Ultimately, are we in the cattle business or the beef business? Which represents a larger customer base – bull buyers or beef consumers? If we generate more consumer demand for Red Angus-influenced beef, can we even produce enough bulls?
To enhance the value of our genetics, we must create pull-through demand to the consumer. Every cow, bull, steer and heifer ultimately ends up as beef or is buried. Which outcome offers the most value for your customer as a Red Angus breeder?
I am pleased that our meetings now reflect a broader perspective, even though we occasionally get bogged down in topics that do not align as closely with our strategic plan as they might. If we are serious about Red Angus dominating the beef industry, we must continually rethink our business model. The old way of operating as a breed association is simply not sustainable. //
1A
Koester Red Angus combines over 20 years of genomic DNA testing with practical, hands-on selection to deliver bulls that perform both on paper and in the pasture. While advanced data drives our decisions, we never compromise structure, muscle and phenotype. Our bulls are built to produce efficient, high-performing cattle and long-lasting females – ensuring commercial cattlemen get results that are as reliable as they are profitable.
Proven Genetics. Reliable, Profitable Results.
BD: 8-12-23
KOESTER CHARTER 312 (#4948062)
Here is a fancy dude with 13 measurements in the top 33% of the breed. The 0906-sired cattle are born light, get after it and have that balanced, eye-appealing look. This is Shaye’s bull, and she hit it out of the park on this mating. Moderate, long, deep and stout.
1B
BD: 9-3-23
KOESTER INSIGHT 397 (#4948260)
This stud could be the best Insight 9917 son to date with performance written all over him. He has fantastic breed rankings for ProS, GM, WW, YW, ADG, MK, HPG, MB, CW and REA. He oozes profit and looks good doing it. Backed by a great Stockmarket dam with a great udder and feet.
1A
BD: 8-21-23
KOESTER PROPULSION 357 (#4948268)
Showstopper with exceptional growth and GM rankings. This eye-catching Propulsion son is also backed by a great Warrant daughter with as close to a perfect udder as you can find. This guy will certainly sire profitable cattle.
Selling 60 age-advantaged bulls in conjunction with
1 p.m. MT • At the Ranch • Sidney, MT
1A
BD: 9-4-23
KOESTER WARRANT 3102 (#4948086)
Want growth and carcass in a very attractive package? 3102 is your guy. He is a top 1% GM bull that balances his EPD suite well with a top 24% ProS. The 409 dam is 10 years old and still producing high-performing, attractive offspring.
1B
BD: 8-17-23
KOESTER STOCKMARKET 337 (#4948326)
337 reads for profit from conception to consumption with front-pasture eye appeal. He ranks in the top 4% GM and balances it with a top 14% ProS. We lost his dam to an injury – she had a bright future and a perfect udder. Performance, look and maternal sum him up.
1A
BD: 8-18-23
KOESTER INSIGHT 341 (#4948292)
A fancy Insight son with 11 profit traits in the top 33% of the breed. He’s a super balanced bull both genotypically and phenotypically. His dam is a higher growth Domain daughter with exceptional foot and udder scores. Hard to go wrong with top 8% ProS and top 4% GM.
Steve & Tracey Koester Steele, ND (701) 400-1611 cell KoesterRedAngus.com koesterredangus@gmail.com Request a catalog: Leland Red Angus Friday, March 14, 2025
102 803 115 116 91 100
An outcross Drifter son that goes back to the great Coach bull. Dam’s average weaning ratio on 3 head is 115. His maternal sister was the pick of the herd sold in 2024 and his brother sold as a herd bull to Schriefer Red Angus. ProS
LOT 6 – FEDDES CAPTAIN 806-4201
and
He comes with an eye-catching phenotype, a
back and loads of muscle. Stems from one of our most productive cow families for over 30 years!
13 9
0.36
0.28 0.05 One of the most phenotypically correct bulls in the offering. When you look at him you can’t help but notice his hindquarter and rib shape. Structurally very correct. His mother is the highest valued donor to ever walk our pastures. 709 lbs. at weaning and 1202 lbs. at a year with a big ribeye. Should sire incredible females.
Captain son that will catch your eye in the pen. Captain 057 is a calving-ease specialist that makes top-end females. The dam, 806, has been a top donor cow for us for several years, until she was 16. Top 6% WW, 5% YW, 4% ADG and 1% Milk. A phenotypic standout!
Reg.
ProS
by a top dam.
ProS
72 16
8 11 10 19 0.96 0.19 15 -0.05 0.06
A Markets Up son that does it all! A 110 WR with over 800 lb. WW, 111 YR and 142 IMF ratio, all with only a 78 lb. BW. Big-time EPDs, top 1% IMF, 3% ProS, 6% BW stemming from the very maternal Verdi cow family! Dam’s MPPA is 104.
11 10
One of the first PIE Hollywood sons to sell and out of one of the top donors on the ranch, Feddes Blockana 704. She boasts a 109 MPPA and doesn’t miss. Broadway covers all the bases with his EPD profile boasting top 9% GM, 6% CED, 5% BW, 5% WW, 4% YW, 5% ADG, 1% Milk, 7% CEM, 3% Marb, 18% CW & 21% REA. Look for his full brother in the sale as well.
Drifter has taken the breed by storm and for good reason. His sons grow and carcass well. We calved our first daughters here and I can tell you, I’d like 100 more of them. The dam of 4200, Y17, has had as much influence on our program and around the country as any cow we’ve raised. She boasts a 111 MPPA and we finally had to say goodbye at 14 years of age. 14 traits in the top 35% of the breed define the balance we are breeding for. Top 1% ProS, 1% HB, 11% GM, 11% CED, 5%BW, 1% Milk, 4% CEM, 1%
2%
and 3% REA.
15 9 12
A true curve bender with maternal and carcass as well. 105 WR, 102 YR and 128 Marb ratio. Top 17% GM, 15% CED, 2% WW, 3% YW, 7% ADG, 10% Milk, 7% HPG, 14% CEM, 4% Marb. We are extremely impressed with our first crop pf Payday calves. He will become a staple in our program. Feet and legs are great on the Payday calves.
18335 E. 103rd Ave., Suite 202
Commerce City, CO 80022
940-387-3502 | FAX 888-829-6069
info@redangus.org | RedAngus.org
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
Tom Brink
Ext. 4 | tombrink@redangus.org
DIRECTOR OF BREED IMPROVEMENT
Lindsay Upperman, Ph.D.
Ext. 29 | lindsay@redangus.org
BEEF GENETICIST
A.J. Knowles
Ext. 39 | AJ@redangus.org
EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT
Halla Ramsey
Ext. 10 | halla@redangus.org
REDSPRO & REGISTRY TEAM LEAD
Kaitlyn Fulmer
Ext. 6 | kaitlyn@redangus.org
REDSPRO & REGISTRY SPECIALIST
Katie Scott
Ext. 1 | katiescott@redangus.org
MEMBER SERVICES SPECIALIST
Stephanie Essegian
Ext. 26 | stephanie@redangus.org
DNA PROGRAMS MANAGER
Ariana De La Garza
Ext. 24 | ariana@redangus.org
DNA CUSTOMER SERVICE SPECIALIST
Julia Sanderson Ext. 14 | julia@redangus.org
DNA CUSTOMER SERVICE SPECIALIST
Andi Inmon
Ext. 5 | andi@redangus.org
DATABASE AND REGISTRATION CONSULTANT
Kenda Ponder Ext. 15 | kenda@redangus.org
DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION
Kim Heller, Ph.D. 515-851-2019 | kim@redangus.org
DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS
Katie Martin Ext. 16 | katiemartin@redangus.org
PUBLISHER & ADVERTISING DIRECTOR
Tracey Koester
701-391-5440 | tracey@redangus.org
DIGITAL MEDIA SPECIALIST
Trisha Klement Glassinger 580-775-5090 | trisha@redangus.org
EDITOR & WRITTEN CONTENT SPECIALIST
Maclaine Shults-Mauney 970-234-9685 | maclaine@redangus.org
SHOW SPECIALIST
Erin Dorsey 970-396-5420 | erin@redangus.org
ACCOUNTING DIRECTOR
Janet Russell Ext. 11 | janet@redangus.org
MEMBERSHIP & ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE
Christi Mangusso Ext. 7 | christi@redangus.org
JUNIOR PROGRAM COORDINATOR
Taylor Dorsey 970-397-0356 | taylordorsey@redangus.org
RECEPTIONIST
Tabitha Romero
Ext. 3 | receptionist@redangus.org
Commercial Marketing Team and Value-Added Programs staff is on page 20
by Tom Brink, RAAA Chief Executive Officer
At the 2024 National Red Angus Convention, the Red Angus Association of America announced a new fed-cattle grid marketing opportunity with Sustainable Beef LLC, in North Platte, Nebraska. SB’s new packing plant will open April 2025. Sustainable Beef has established its own Angus-label branded beef program including both Red and black Angus.
For Red Angus producers, a key benefit is that Sustainable Beef’s grid pays a competitive premium for upper two-thirds Choice carcasses, regardless of whether they come from Red or black Angus cattle. The playing field will be level, creating a unique and positive situation for Red Angus producers.
To make the most of this opportunity and to support SB, RAAA’s marketing team is in the process of building a “network” that will help connect Red Angus feeder cattle with feedlots and market their finished cattle to SB. These feedlots are well-positioned to buy Red Angus and Red Angus-influenced feeder cattle because they will have a favorable pricing grid for selling the cattle at harvest.
Supporting Sustainable Beef benefits Red Angus breeders and commercial ranchers. As SB launches its plant and succeeds with Red Angus cattle, overall demand will grow. Breed stakeholders should then ask, “How can I help support this effort?”
For seedstock breeders, here’s what you can do: First, learn about this new development and what it means. Second, inform your commercial bull customers about the unique opportunity Red Angus has with Sustainable Beef and that the SB grid favors Red Angus. Finally, encourage them to contact the RAAA marketing team so the right feedlot buyers learn about their feeder calves.
Sustainable Beef’s grid pays a competitive premium for upper two-thirds Choice carcasses, regardless of whether they come from Red or black Angus cattle.
For commercial producers, please let our team know your feeder calf marketing plans at least two weeks before you plan to sell them, including sale timing and location. This is particularly important for larger groups. The more details we have about your feeder calves, the better we can connect you with feedlot buyers who regularly market to Sustainable Beef.
Another important point is that Central Region feedlots purchase feeder cattle from a wide range of locations. It’s not uncommon for a feedlot in Nebraska or Kansas to procure feeder cattle from 20 or more states each year. This means the potential demand for Red Angus feeder calves from this network can be widespread and not just limited to Nebraska and surrounding states.
Ranchers understand demand begins with happy consumers. Consumers buy more beef which causes retailers and restaurants to purchase wholesale beef from packer-processors. This motivates packers to buy more fed cattle, creating empty pens in the feedlot that must be filled with a fresh round of feeder cattle.
The links in the supply chain are all connected and the better each segment understands the needs of the whole
beef production system, the more successful every participant will be. Red Angus now has the unique opportunity to support an evolving beef supply chain with Sustainable Beef that can lead to greater success for everyone. Plan to be part of it!
For more information contact any member of the RAAA commercial marketing team below:
Kelly Smith: 417-855-9461
Cory Peters: 402-418-2351
Rachael Oliver: 406-480-1569
Taylor Ohlde: 913-626-2715
Jeananne Drouhard: 940-477-4591
Lauren Weingardt: 940-226-4762
More and more feeders and packers want cattle that are EID-tagged – which is also the case for Sustainable Beef. Their plant requires cattle carry an EID.
Through the RAAA Feeder Calf Certification Program, producers can breed-verify their Red Angus-sired feeder calves and have them EID-tagged and ready for the downstream industry by the time they leave the ranch. //
SATURDAY,
WPRA Andras Madison H047 #4379123
Andras Keynote J150 #4587391
Andras Deep End ET K010 #4648459
Andras Executive Order J038 #4479341
EGL Guidance 9117 #4208972
ALC Infinity H26 #4916242
WSM Playmaker 1080J #4468115 BB Propulsion L176 #4169122 Andras TN Flat Top Box J174 #4589869
BB Security M020 #4457695
Andras Upstream J142 #4589915
Andras Peyweight J210 #4582591
As fellow Red Angus breeders, we must work together. We believe that we need to work together, that we need to share data, and that we need to have the best available tools to improve our cattle.
• Claw Shape- to ensure we are improving hoof structure.
• Scrotal- to characterize this important male fertility and sexual maturity trait.
• Teat & Udder Combined- to build better udders.
• Pulmonary Arterial Pressure- to ensure our cattle work in high altitude.
• Mature Daughter Weight- to monitor the size of the females we are building.
• Feed to Gain- to select for lines that convert better in the feedlot.
• Breeding Soundness- to select for lines that pass their 15-month-old BSE test at higher rates.
• Cow Body Condition Score- to identify lines that produce easier fleshing daughters.
It’s all about producing the best possible Red Angus. Now, these traits are all available to commercial ranchers via the Zoetis Inherit Select ®test. Pick your replacements using this powerful tool!
To learn more, please contact any of these Red Angus breeders
340-9774
DIRECTOR OF COMMERCIAL MARKETING
Kelly Smith
417-855-9461 | kelly@redangus.org
ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF COMMERCIAL MARKETING
Rachael Oliver
406-480-1569 | rachael@redangus.org
COMMERCIAL MARKETING SPECIALIST
Cory Peters | cory@redangus.org
402-418-2351
COMMERCIAL MARKETING SPECIALIST
Taylor Ohlde | taylor@redangus.org 913-626-2715
VALUE-ADDED DEPARTMENT TEAM LEAD
Jeananne Drouhard Ext. 18 | jeananne@redangus.org
VALUE-ADDED PROGRAMS SPECIALIST Lauren Weingardt Ext. 20 | laurenweingardt@redangus.org
ENROLL IN VALUE-ADDED PROGRAMS AND ORDER TAGS: tags@redangus.org 940-477-4593
The Red Angus show list informs feedyard managers, order buyers and other interested parties of Red Angus-influenced cattle. Producers can market feeder or finished cattle through this free service when selling through a sale barn, video auction or private treaty. The weekly show list is emailed to potential buyers through the Red Angus FeederFax email service. To upload information about cattle or to view cattle available, visit RedAngus.org/showlist.
by Rachael Oliver, Assistant Director of Commercial Marketing
“I might as well just buy black bulls.” Have you heard that comment before as a Red Angus producer? I guarantee you have – at least once, if not twice. But have you ever asked why someone would say that? Part of my job is to figure out the reason behind that remark and I wonder if others do, too. It’s easy to point fingers and blame external factors but what if the truth is something we’re not ready to accept?
Pride plays a huge role in ranching. We take pride in marketing our cattle and sometimes our decisions are driven more by emotion than they should be. That pride can vanish when an unexpectedly low price for our calves hits hard. When that happens, it’s easy to shift blame elsewhere – even though the real issue is that our pride has been wounded.
Have we ever considered that a producer’s price discount usually comes down to a few key factors? In conversations with buyers and feedlots, the main reasons for not offering a higher price are a lack of consistency among calves, poor herd health and subpar growth potential or quality. These three factors are the primary criteria for buyers. They aren’t groundbreaking, so why do we ignore them when comparing cattle prices?
The cattle industry has become extremely competitive and buyers have higher expectations for producers. Achieving upper two-thirds Choice is the standard for all cattle and Red Angus should have no trouble reaching that level. Yet, in every breed, roughly 10% fall short of this benchmark. As a breed, do we settle for that lower standard, hoping those cattle will eventually catch up or do we challenge all producers to aim for Prime? We should set goals for better consistency, improved herd health and management and enhanced growth potential and quality – and let the rest follow.
Cattle buyers are already setting the standard, as shown by the larger discount gaps on calves. Buyers and feeders don’t hesitate to pay for quality and consistency. They trust producers who deliver top-quality cattle and will pay premium prices year after year to those who consistently do so.
In the end, I ask: Would buying a black bull change anything? Probably not. If you invest in quality genetics and strive to produce the best feeder calves possible, the color of your calves won’t matter. Quality speaks volumes. Perhaps it’s time to dig deep and ensure you’re not among the bottom 10%. //
To receive the weekly FeederFax marketing service that will highlight that week’s show list, please email tags@redangus.org. Investing in
Calving season is here, which means selecting your next herdsires is on the horizon. Make your choice at HPR… where the dams, granddams and great-granddams of every bull we offer are raised and maintained on our ranch. We combine the latest science and technology available with real-world, hands-on stockmanship and experience… progressive and practical. Purchase your bulls where the females and our customers always come first.
• Spring 2025 Herd Inventory: Due March 5, 2025. All females over 16 months of age added to the active inventory after this date will be charged THR billing in July.
• Spring 2024 No Progeny: Will be requested March 12 and is due May 23. Any active females missing 2024 calf information will be marked inactive on May 30.
• Fall 2024 Birth and Weaning Data: Will be requested March 19.
• Transfers: Complete transfers within 120 days of the sale date to avoid late transfer fees. Transfers may be submitted online or in writing to data@redangus.org.
• Account Review: Now is a great time to ensure your account is up to date with correct contact information and that your balance is current.
DNA Reminders
• DNA must be submitted for animals entered in the Red Angus Youth Expo by April 4.
• All sires and donor dams must have DNA on file (parentage) before offspring can be registered.
• To order DNA kits, please contact the DNA department at 940-387-3502, Ext. 8, or dna@redangus.org.
For questions or clarification, contact the registration department at data@ redangus.org or 940-387-3502, Ext. 1.
Schedule a meeting by scanning the QR code or visiting: RedAngus.org > Herd Management > Red Angus Alley
by Ariana De La Garza, RAAA DNA Programs Manager
The Red Cow Rally research program is a unique GGP test created in partnership between RAAA and our lab partner, Neogen, to offer members discounted GGP testing on their registered females. Increasing the number of genotypes and phenotypes collected across the Red Angus breed improves genetic predictions and strengthens the overall data pool. There is no cap on herd size, making the program a one-size-fits-all solution.
What you receive from participating in the Red Cow Rally program:
1. GGP-LD (100K) testing for $22 (normally $50). This testing provides members with enhanced EPDs on each successfully tested animal.
2. Parentage testing, including verification of parents on file.
3. The option to add OS and MA testing for $2 each, mirroring our standard GGPLD test bundle.
4. A $5 age rebate on any female submitted for testing that is 6 years or older.
5. A $5 phenotype rebate when you submit both Mature Cow Weights and Body Condition Scores for a one-time reimbursement.
• This rebate applies to every cow that weans a calf during the season.
• Data must be collected within one week of the calf’s weaning date.
Note: You don’t have to apply for the rebates if you prefer not to; these are simply additional ways to save money. Rebates appear as a credit on your REDSPro account.
1. Ensure your active cow inventory is current. Based on your inventory, 90% of your females must be submitted for testing to qualify for the program. Once your inventory is updated, contact RAAA staff at dna@redangus.org to receive a contract that calculates the number of females needed to reach the 90% requirement and qualify for the $22 GGP testing price. Any females previously submitted for GGP testing automatically count toward the 90% requirement. RAAA will grant the $22 testing price on any additional females needed to reach the target.
2. Print and sign the contract, then return it to the DNA department via email or mail.
3. Within one year of signing the contract, you must meet the 90% testing requirement to remain eligible for the $22 GGP test price. You may submit your female samples all at once or as you collect them. However, each submission must include a Red Cow Rally DNA order form. Acceptable samples include TSUs or blood; hair samples will not be accepted. All orders must include payment for lab processing. If any of your females require OS or MA testing, you can add those for $2 per test by noting it on the order form. Any additional defect or other tests are charged at the normal price.
Note: 2025 heifers cannot be tested at the $22 price until a qualifying order of 2024 and older animals has been met.
If the Red Cow Rally research program interests you, please contact the DNA Department at dna@redangus.org, 940-387-3502, Ext. 8, for more information or to enroll today. Happy spring calving! //
by Lindsay Upperman, Ph.D., Director of Breed Improvement
In the cattle industry, discussions about hair aren’t usually at the forefront of a producer’s mind, unless there are quick touch-ups on sale bulls or if you happen to be showing the animal. Yet for producers in the Southeast region, this discussion may be a crucial factor in their operation’s selection protocol. Why is that the case? Let’s dive into the details of hair shedding.
Heat stress has been identified as one
of the greatest environmental challenges to the beef industry. An indicator of an animal’s ability to cope with heat stress is the capacity to shed part of its winter coat by a set date in spring or summer. Animals that meet this criterion are more likely to wean heavier calves and enjoy greater longevity in the herd. Additionally, cattle that shed hair earlier in the season may tolerate toxic fescue better. Toxic fescue is caused by a fungus that lives within the plant during part of its life cycle.
5
Cattle have shed none (0%) of their winter coat. Thick, longer hair still covers their entire body.
4
Cattle have shed only 25% of their winter coat. Due to how cattle shed hair, this will mainly occur around their neck but may also include their topline.
3
Cattle have shed approximately half (50%) of their winter coat. In addition to the hair along the neck, this will include hair along the body, often in patchy spots.
2
Cattle have shed 75% of their winter coat. There will be a small amount of hair remaining along their flank and hindquarter.
1
Cattle have shed all (100%) of their winter coat. All that remains is a shorter, smooth, summer coat.
Hair shedding scores range on a scale from 1 to 5. A score of 1 indicates an animal has shed 100% of its winter coat, showing only its short summer coat. On the opposite end, a score of 5 means the animal hasn’t shed any of its winter coat. In other words, these animals still have a long, thick coat covering their entire body. These scores should be collected once a year for the entire herd including both males and females.
The time to evaluate cattle for hair shedding depends on current environmental conditions as well as the operation’s location. In other words, producers in the Southeast may need to start collecting scores as early as March or April, while those in the Upper Midwest may need to collect scores during May or June. The animals should also be scored when the herd shows the most variation – when some animals score 1, others score 5 and most score 3.
Another key point about hair shedding scores is the effect of age. Younger animals like yearlings and first-calf heifers often show higher scores because these females face extra stress trying to secure enough nutrition for themselves and raise their calves. When using this trait as a selection tool, rank animals within age groups rather than across the entire herd.
RAAA is collecting hair-shedding scores from its members. We are developing a REDSPro file for producers to submit this data. Collecting this information is the first step toward developing a selection tool. If you haven’t begun discussing hair shedding in your operation, now is the time. //
RAA: 4303789 | STOCKMARKET x Iron Ore
BLUE CHIP is a proven, breed-leading Calving Ease son of former registration leader, 7AR86 STOCKMARKET. He offers above average growth, elite stayability and is an outlier for carcass quality and marbling. BLUE CHIP’s offspring are extra attractive and good structured. His daughters are moderate framed and maternal.
At over 70% accuracy, CHECKMATE ranks in the top 25% of the breed for BW, but also ranks in the top 1-2% for WW and YW, making him a true spread bull. As one of the only Paycheck sons in A.I., CHECKMATE offers an outcross pedigree with elite genetic merit. For a Calving Ease sire, he offers added stoutness, width of base and body capacity. He checks all the boxes!
AMSTERDAM is the rookie Calving Ease sire in our lineup that offers an outcross pedigree to most popular Red Angus female bloodlines. He is a breed leader for CEM and STAY, as well as both ProS and Herdbuilder indexes, making him an ideal choice to create replacement females. He is moderate framed, yet dense made with exceptional mobility. He is a future star in our lineup!
From Feddes Red Angus, MT
SATURDAY, MARCH 22ND, 2025
JR RANCH / OTHELLO, WA
INTRODUCING INTRODUCING
LASO AMERICA FIRST E26M! LASO AMERICA FIRST E26M!
REG. #4987181 REG. #4987181
Two of four full brothers selling out of No Regrets and the promising young donor LASO Lana E36K!
Reg. # 4679003
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by Shelby Shank for the Red Angus Magazine
Sustainability is no longer just a buzzword in agriculture but has become a guiding framework for ensuring the longevity and viability of ranches.
For generations, cattle ranchers have practiced sustainability by caring for the land and continually adapting to new challenges. Still, the increasing consumer demand for sustainable practices has brought this concept to the forefront. As sustainability evolves, it’s reshaping how producers approach their businesses and make decisions.
“Sustainability isn’t something new being forced on us,” said Sebastian Mejia Turcios, Ph.D., an on-farm support beef specialist with Alltech. “Farmers and ranchers have always cared about the land and their livestock. Sustainability gives us a framework to communicate and improve on those efforts.”
For many ranchers, sustainability means the continual improvement of their operations, a concept that has been part of ranching for generations. Mike Williams, a California cattle producer and U.S. Roundtable for Sustainable Beef chairman, defines sustainability as the ongoing advancement of ranching practices.
“[Sustainability] is continually improving your operation over time,” Williams said. “Very few people are ranching today the same way they did in the 70s. In the 70s they weren’t doing things the same as in the 50s and so on. Over time, you either improve your operation or it goes away.”
Defining Sustainability and Why it Matters Sustainability means different things to different people but at its core, sustainability is about ensuring operations can endure for future generations while also improving over time. Today, sustainability is about balancing three key elements: environmental stewardship, economic viability and social responsibility.
“To achieve a sustainable operation, we need to focus on all three,” Turcios said. “Farmers and ranchers have already been doing this for a long time.”
For the beef industry, sustainability involves meeting the needs of today while preserving the land and resources for the future.
“If we want our operation to continue to the next generations, we need to care about sustainability because that’s the essence of it – meeting our present needs without compromising the needs of future generations,” Turcios said.
For ranchers like Williams, sustainability begins with a forward-thinking approach. He noted it starts with evaluating his ranch and asking, “How can I improve my operation and better care for my resources?”
Sustainability is about balancing three key elements: environmental stewardship, economic viability and social responsibility.
This “big picture” approach to sustainability is often captured through the ESG framework, which emphasizes environmental, social and governance pillars.
Environmental stewardship ensures natural resources like water, soil and pasturelands are preserved and used efficiently
Social responsibility emphasizes the role of agriculture in ensuring animal welfare, fostering safe working environments and supporting future generations.
Finally, governance focuses on ethical decision-making, transparency and effective management to ensure ranches are sustainable.
Consumer demand has also become a driving force behind sustainable agriculture.
“The consumer wants to make sure their food comes from a place where the environment is important,” Turcios said. “This pushes the industry to put strategies in place to create a sustainable product.”
However, the conversation around sustainability in agriculture is often clouded by public misconceptions. Concerns about animal welfare, antibiotic use and pollution are com-
mon with social media playing a powerful role in spreading these opinions. For ranchers, bridging the gap between producers and consumers is vital.
“It’s not about throwing the word out there,” Turcios said. “It’s about putting actionable items in place and being intentional about the things you need to do to be sustainable on your ranch.”
While the concept of sustainability can seem overwhelming, it often boils down to practical, actionable steps ranchers can take to improve their operations.
From grazing management to adopting new technologies, these strategies can help ranchers improve efficiency on their operations and ensure long-term viability.
“Anything we can put into action to become more efficient is a step towards being more sustainable,” Turcios said.
One of the most effective ways to promote sustainability on a ranch is through proper grazing management.
By developing and monitoring grazing plans, ranchers can prevent overgrazing, improve pasture health and optimize resource use.
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“Even a basic plan can make a difference,” Williams said. “If you’re managing your grazing in a way that you’re taking care of your land, then you’re going to improve your forage production over time, which is going to be more profitable.”
Williams highlights USRSB’s efforts in advancing sustainability. USRSB is a multi-stakeholder initiative dedicated to continuous improvement in sustainability within the beef industry. The organization offers valuable tools for ranchers, including sustainability modules covering the entire beef supply chain: Grazing Management Plan Development module and High-Priority Indicators & Sector Target modules. These resources help ranchers identify areas for improvement on their operations and offer a framework for enhancing sustainability practices.
Another strategy for improving sustainability is enhancing herd genetics. Traits such as fertility, growth rates and feed conversion efficiency can reduce resource use while maintaining high quality beef production.
“Better genetics mean better efficiency and reproductive performance, which translates to sustainability,” Turcios said.
Technology also plays a pivotal role in the advancement of sustainable ranching practices. Innovations such as virtual
fencing and advanced record-keeping help ranchers make data-driven decisions.
“This is the golden age for innovation,” Williams said. “Having an open mind to adapt and incorporate new technologies is crucial. If we stay stuck in the past, we might just be left behind.”
Technology enables ranchers to track resources, monitor herd performance and optimize inputs, making it easier to make informed decisions that benefit both the environment and the ranch. Digital tools also provide ranchers with valuable insights into pasture health, livestock performance and environmental impact, enabling them to monitor and measure the success of sustainable practices.
To ensure that sustainable practices are effective, ranchers need to measure their impact and track progress over time. Metrics such as animal performance, forage quality and environmental impact help ranchers quantify that success and identify areas for improvement.
“Keeping records and digitalizing them helps producers track resources effectively,” Turcios said. “It’s about using the right tools that fit your operation. The approach to sustainability is similar across all operations, regardless of size.”
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This data-driven approach allows ranchers to refine their practices, making continuous improvements to their operations and ensuring they remain sustainable over time.
While the term “sustainability” has become widely used, it’s essential not to let it become a word that gets tossed around. For ranchers, sustainability is not just a buzzword but an actionable approach that ensures their operations can endure for years to come.
“Sustainability is here to stay,” Turcios said. “It’s about taking intentional steps and being open to change. Anything we can do to be more efficient on our operations is a step toward sustainability.”
Sustainability should be viewed as good farming and ranching practices, rather than an external requirement. It’s about ranchers taking ownership of their operations and defining sustainability in ways that align with their values and goals.
“When you get to the bottom line of what sustainable ranching really is – own it. Own the term. We don’t have to be ashamed of sustainability or hate it but we can own it,” Williams said.
Turcios emphasized the need for ranchers to tell their stories.
“If we don’t control the narrative, others might turn it against us,” Turcios said. “Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword – it’s something we’ve been doing for generations. It’s about leaving the land better than we found it.”
By sharing the stories of ranching and explaining what sustainability looks like on their operations, ranchers can help build trust with consumers and demonstrate that sustainability is an integral part of ranching.
“Consumer’s want to be more aware of where their food is coming from,” Turcios said. “They may not fully understand what sustainability means in agriculture but that’s why it’s so important for ranchers to engage in those conversations and tell their stories.”
Engaging in these conversations allows ranchers to share the realities of their operations, showcasing their commitment to responsible land stewardship and caring for livestock. By participating in these discussions, ranchers ensure sustainability is understood correctly and not misinterpreted.
Ranching is rooted in tradition, where time-honored practices and values are passed down through generations. For ranchers, these traditions are more than just methods; they represent a deep connection to the land, animals and community. Sustainability in ranching means preserving tradition while adapting to meet future challenges.
By integrating sustainability, ranchers ensure their traditions not only survive but thrive in an ever-changing world. Upholding tradition through sustainability means ranches can evolve while preserving their core values of hard work, land stewardship and dedication to future generations.
“It’s not just about holding onto traditions, it’s about making sure those traditions have a place in the future,” Williams said. //
Better genetics mean better efficiency and reproductive performance, which translates to sustainability,
by Sarah Hill for the Red Angus Magazine
We’ve all seen those cattle – the ones that hold their heads and ears just a little too high, have a wild look in their eyes and bolt the moment you get too close. These are the heifers or cows that can become dangerous at calving time when you try to tag their calf.
At the home of Jeremy Haack, DVM, and his wife, Asia, near York, Nebraska, their cattle are the complete opposite. The Haacks raise around 100 head of Red Angus and docility is a critical trait in their herd.
“We have young children helping, so among other traits, we also select for docility,” Haack said. “We want cattle that aren’t aggressive, won’t wreck facilities or hurt anyone and are easy to handle.”
Austin Schweitzer, owner of Wehrs Feedyard in Milford, Nebraska, said his experience with Red Angus cattle dates back to 2001, when he worked at the University of Nebraska Meat Animal Research Center, which had both black and Red Angus herds.
“I still own a few black Angus cattle but the difference in disposition between blacks and reds is obvious,” Schweitzer said. “Disposition is im-
portant for us because cattle that are easy to work with help us maximize our time and profitability.”
The Haacks believe docile cattle are incredibly valuable. They are easier to handle, more predictable when worked and can help keep other cattle calm.
Although Red Angus does not currently have a docility EPD, the Haacks prioritize bulls with high docility into their genetics.
“We’ve had cattle from bulls that weren’t docile,” Haack explained. “With the attitude those cattle had, it’s not worth it for us.”
“Docility is heritable,” Asia added. “We could tell as soon as those calves were born – they were snorty little things.”
Schweitzer agreed. “For our cowcalf herd, anything that’s wild or high-headed, we don’t keep,” he said. “When you think cattle production, you think ‘family.’ Kids or inexperienced teens may be helping and you can’t put a price on their safety.”
For Schweitzer, docility provides peace of mind.
“If I finally get to go on vacation and a young person is helping while I’m gone, I can sit on a beach a lot easier knowing they’re safe,” he said. “I might worry about them not tagging or weighing the calf correctly but I won’t be worried about them getting hurt.”
Docility and Handling
Asia agrees that the quiet demeanor of Red Angus cattle is essential for production systems where cattle frequently go through a chute for timed AI, calving assistance or pasture checks.
“You want a cow to move away from you when you step into her flight zone,” Jeremy said. “But you don’t want a two-speed cow – one that only knows how to stop or run. She should just walk away calmly. Two-speed cattle cause problems. They run people
over, wreck gates and I’ve even seen first-calf heifers struggle to claim their calf because they ran away when we tried to help.”
While the Haacks’ operation has some predators, Jeremy said it’s beneficial when a cow protects her calf from coyotes without becoming aggressive toward people.
“We’re usually there shortly after the birth to vaccinate, tag, give an oral supplement and weigh the calf,” he said. “Now, if a dog enters the calving pen, that cow may escort it out but there’s a fine line to docility.”
Asia said it’s easy to identify cattle with calm temperaments. She watches how they exit the chute, how quickly they walk into it and how they react to new things.
“If I’m out walking the pasture with our 5-year-old, I might have something novel like a jug of fly spray,” she said. “I expect the cows to be inquisitive but not be flighty, running away and taking the whole herd with them.”
Jeremy added that customers often compliment their Red Angus for being easy to work with while still performing as well as black Angus.
“For us, it confirms that Red Angus are more valuable because we need to sell cattle that work for our customers too,” he said. “They have the carcass traits to perform with other breeds known for good marbling.”
While no animal is 100% predictable, Asia has observed that Red Angus cattle exhibit more consistent behavior and fewer erratic reactions.
“It’s reassuring to know I can have my kids around the cattle without worrying about them being flighty,” she said
One of Haack’s veterinary customers highlighted another overlooked aspect of docility – its impact on treating disease.
“My customer was dealing with early pneumonia in his calves,” he said. “I recommended an intranasal vaccine but he replied that he can’t get close enough to administer it until branding. If you can’t treat that calf, some will develop chronic issues and some may die. With docile cattle, you can manage disease more effectively.”
Schweitzer said raising docile, Red Angus cattle makes ranching more enjoyable while improving profitability.
From his veterinary experience, Haack explained that cattle with high cortisol levels are less likely to respond well to treatment. They also have lower feed efficiency and higher morbidity rates. In a feedlot, flighty cattle are harder to monitor, making it easier to miss signs of illness.
“When you try to pull a sick calf from a pen and it’s running everywhere, its temperature rises and stress increases,” Schweitzer said. “That calf is less likely to respond quickly to treatment.”
Schweitzer noted that feedlots are among the top five most dangerous
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workplaces, with injuries commonly caused by equipment or cattle.
“Most feedlots can handle just about anything but if it takes twice as long to pull a wild cow instead of a calm one, it wastes time and time is money,” he said. “There are so many ways to get hurt in this line of work.”
He also pointed out that pens of Red Angus don’t require reinforced fencing like those housing more excitable cattle.
“The value of an animal’s disposition can’t be measured, so it doesn’t always get the credit it deserves,” he said.
Asia, who holds a master’s degree in meat science, said docility also plays a role in meat quality.
“We run a farm-to-fork beef program and always notice a difference when
docility is at play,” she said.
“We feed out 20 to 25 head each year. Our cattle are used to ATVs, tractors, vehicles, people and the dog. The feedyard is near our house and our kids are constantly riding bikes and playing. If the cattle were flighty, that setup wouldn’t work.”
Research supports that calmer cattle produce higher-quality meat.
“When cattle are stressed, especially before slaughter, their bodies release cortisol, which depletes glycogen in the muscle,” Asia said.
“This results in darker, sticky meat with altered pH. While safe to eat, it’s not visually appealing compared to a bright cherry red steak.”
Cattle that get worked up before slaughter – whether from being chased onto a trailer or mishandled
“Selecting for docility helps ensure a high-quality end product – one we can be proud to share with our customers while promoting the breed.”
– are more likely to become dark cutters. Consumers often perceive dark-cutter meat as aged or lower quality.
“Cattle that are easy to handle consistently are high marbling and grade well,” Asia said.
“It takes a lot of time, effort and money to raise a calf, wean it, background it and feed it out. Selecting for docility helps ensure a high-quality end product – one we can be proud to share with our customers while promoting the breed.” //
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Always follow the label instructions on pharmaceuticals and ensure the correct dosage.
by Jessica Wesson for the Red Angus Magazine
Managing pests and parasites is a universal challenge for cattle operations, regardless of location.
Julia Herman, DVM, beef cattle specialist veterinarian for the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, says different strategies and techniques can be employed depending on a few things.
“Pest management is very region-specific. Some regions will struggle with certain pests and parasites, while others won’t,” Herman said. “You should also consider the environment where cattle are raised – whether in a pasture or feedlot – as well as the time of year.”
Younger cattle are particularly vulnerable to pests and parasites.
“Their immune systems are still developing and they have to be exposed to the internal parasites to build their immune defenses up,” Herman said. “Stressors such as weaning, transportation and comingling, can also affect them more. Producers need to pay special attention to younger animals because they aren’t able to handle stress as well as older animals.”
While most producers rely on dewormers and other traditional treatments, alternative methods are available for those seeking a different approach.
“Any pest or parasite thrives in an animal that is immunocompromised or undernourished,” Herman said. “Ensuring proper nutrition at every stage of an animal’s life throughout the year is crucial.”
Flies are a constant challenge and are responsible for more than $1 billion in damage to the U.S. beef industry annually.
In response, some producers have turned to alternative treatments like garlic to combat these tiny pests.
Though research is limited, some producers report a noticeable decrease in fly load after adding garlic powder to feed rations. When cattle ingest garlic, its distinctive odor is secreted through the skin and breath, ultimately repelling flies while reducing biting and irritation.
Producers considering this method are advised to adopt a proactive approach. Because flies reproduce so rapidly, adding garlic to feed rations about 30 days before the onset of fly season is ideal.
With no approved vaccines for external pests like flies and ticks, managing the environment where cattle will encounter them is key.
“A lot of it comes down to environmental hygiene,” Herman said. “Keeping grass height low, removing weeds and brush from areas where cattle will be and using fences to create barriers against wildlife can all help reduce external pests.”
Wildlife and other feral animals, including stray dogs, can introduce pests and parasites to cattle herds. So how do cattle producers mitigate that risk?
“One line of defense is a fence, netting or other barrier. Trying to keep these other animals off of your property should
be the first option, however, lethal methods may not be an option depending on your area or the species of wildlife,” Herman said. “Be sure that any methods you are using are legal and safe for the area surrounding your property.”
Feeding and watering areas should be protected from wildlife. Herman suggested monitoring birds nesting near these areas. It’s also crucial to properly dispose of deceased livestock to prevent disease spread.
“Once an animal dies, it’s important to remove the carcass as soon as possible to avoid attracting scavengers that could carry diseases,” Herman said. “You also don’t want the pests or parasites from the deceased animal to spread to others.”
Deworming remains a common defense against internal parasites but Herman suggests a more targeted approach.
“Cattle can tolerate a certain level of parasites on their own, so we don’t necessarily have to treat every animal,” she said. “Blanket-use of dewormer and other treatments can lead to resistance, making these products less effective over time.”
Instead of treating the entire herd, some producers focus on treating only sick or highly susceptible animals.
“Refugia programs, which preserve susceptible worms, is a technique many herds are implementing. Resistance is a huge threat to preventing and controlling pests and parasites,” Herman said. “Working with a veterinarian to understand if these products are needed within the herd, targeting immunocompromised animals, like the younger cattle still developing their immune systems, might be necessary.”
Resistance – when insects or parasites become less susceptible to the products that are designed to kill them – is a major issue.
“Pharmaceuticals become less effective when treating infestations, which can lead to health and welfare problems,” Herman explained. “Ensuring products are used judiciously so they aren’t taken away from producers, is critical.”
Always follow the label instructions and ensure the correct dosage is administered based on an animal’s weight. Underdosing allows parasites to survive and adapt, contributing to resistance. For oral drenches, producers should take extra care to ensure cattle properly ingest the medication.
“If using an oral drench, make sure the wormer passes the lump of the tongue so the animal swallows it,” Herman said.
External pests can be managed with insecticide ear tags and pour-on insecticides.
The New World screwworm is a fly that lays her eggs in open wounds or body orifices. When the larvae (shown at right) hatch they burrow in like a screw feeding on tissue and enlarging wounds.
“The effectiveness depends on the target pest, which depends on region and climate,” Herman said. “Work with a veterinarian or industry representative to select the right product and follow the label instructions.”
Insecticide ear tags offer a simple solution for many producers but they should always leave room for other ear tags that may be necessary for animal identification. The level of the insecticide will decrease over time, so the ear tags should be replaced periodically.
“If left longer than recommended, resistance can occur,” Herman said. “Consult the sales representative or contact the manufacturer to determine optimal removal time.”
Withdrawal periods – the time between administering a health product and slaughtering or selling the animal –must be strictly observed.
“Withdrawal ensures meat safety for human consumption. Every animal health product, including dewormers, has a withdrawal period.” Herman said. “Keeping detailed records for each animal to know when they were last treated, ensures compliance.”
Kim Brackett, policy division chair for the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, warns of a rising threat to American cattle producers: the New World screwworm.
“The New World screwworm is a fly that has a particularly gory way of harming cattle,” Brackett said. “Female NWS flies lay their eggs in open wounds or body orifices. When
the larvae hatch, they burrow deep into the skin like a screw driving into wood, feeding on tissue and enlarging wounds as they go.”
Eradicated from the U.S. in 1966 through the sterile insect technique, NWS now exists in parts of South America. However, it’s spreading north.
“Since 2022, USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service has confirmed the presence of NWS in Costa Rica, Nicaragua, Honduras and Guatemala,” Brackett said. “These flies can hitch a ride on people, livestock or wild animals, not to mention the thousands of vehicles and cargo containers traveling through Mexico to the U.S.”
Cattle producers should remain vigilant for any signs NWS.
“New World screwworms have orange eyes, a metallic blue or green body and three dark stripes across their backs,” Brackett said. “If you see any suspicious flies, please contact your local veterinarian, Extension agent or USDA-APHIS Veterinary Services.”
If an infestation occurs, quick action is critical. “Monitor cattle for open wounds or sores, irritated behavior, head shaking or the smell of decaying flesh,” Brackett said. “Seek treatment from a veterinarian immediately and
“Transitioning from a deworming program to a comprehensive parasite control strategy will be crucial.
practice proper wound treatment to prevent a screwworm infestation.”
With numerous parasite and pest management options, the key is finding what works best for each operation.
“Consistency is key. Paying attention to your herd and making sure they are cared for is going to be your best defense,” Herman said. “Work with veterinarians, Extension specialist or industry representatives to refine your parasite control program over time.”
As the industry moves forward, Herman hopes for more sustainable solutions.
“There are very few new dewormers and insecticides being developed, so we need to explore alternative methods,” she said. “Transitioning from a deworming program to a comprehensive parasite control strategy will be crucial.” //
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by Melissa Hart for the Red Angus Magazine
Selling beef directly to consumers is a wide-open opportunity for those who want to branch out from traditional markets.
Adam Wegner, director of marketing for the Nebraska Beef Council, said only about 4% of consumers currently buy beef directly from a farmer or rancher. “On one hand, that looks like a very small percentage,” he said. “On the other hand, you could see that as a big opportunity.”
Producers contemplating a direct-to-consumer model should decide whether they want to sell halves and quarters locally or if there is enough demand to expand into a larger enterprise, according to Wegner.
“If a producer is leaning more toward an e-commerce type of business, then along with that comes logistics, more hoops to jump through and more involved work,” he said.
Wegner also emphasized the importance of considering consumers’ financial outlay. “You have to imagine that a certain percentage of consumers can’t pay large amounts of money
upfront, so that may affect the demand for the product and dictate how you market the beef,” he said.
When consumers are short on cash, they may replace beef with a less expensive protein. “We don’t want [beef] to be the exclusive protein; we want it to be an everyday protein but we also have to maintain a high standard,” Wegner said.
He noted that DTC businesses must educate consumers on the variety of cuts they receive in bulk packages and offer guidance on how to prepare them.
“One of the biggest reasons people buy directly from a producer is because they want that relationship,” Wegner said. “They want to know the person they are buying from and it’s not necessarily about learning every detail of the operation or how the animals are treated. It’s knowing the family and making a connection.”
He added that quality remains a crucial factor. “When the hamburger browns up well and they like the way the steaks are cut and how they cook,
that solidifies the deal for them and makes them repeat customers.”
Wegner pointed out that many producers who market DTC also sell cattle conventionally.
“This gives them a way to capitalize on consumers who want to buy straight from the producer, in addition to taking advantage of the current market situation.”
In the present cattle market, Wegner advised that producers considering DTC should do so at a profit. “I see too many people selling their beef directly to consumers at whatever the market price is and you can’t do that,” he said. “Once you start factoring in the extra labor and time it takes to sell direct to the consumer – you are losing money.”
He also underscored the value of building a positive reputation. “A lot of these producers are trying to create a brand,” Wegner said. “If you are selling direct to consumers and they’re saying, ‘Hey, your product is great,’ that benefits your overall operation and your reputation.”
Consistency is Key
Establishing a DTC operation requires consistent effort, according to Wegner. “The successful ones have invested in marketing. They look the part. They have a nice logo, an appealing website, a solid social media presence and they are consistent with it,” he said.
“It’s not enough to simply set everything up and leave it. You have to maintain it by posting on social media, sending mailings to your customer base, attending events and farmers markets – and doing so regularly.”
A Producers Perspective
A century ago, the Christensen family began its beef production journey with four sows, two dozen hens, a couple of roosters, a team of horses and some leased land. That small start evolved into Christensen Ranch, a Colorado-based operation that today spans
three generations and 102 years. Two of Edward Christensen’s grandchildren – cousins Kathy Wood and Eric Christensen – now manage the ranch and oversee a DTC business that supplies beef lovers across North America.
Edward’s sons, Don, Glen and Larry, represented the second generation on the ranch. Today, the enterprise includes hundreds of cow-calf pairs, a feedlot and thousands of acres northeast of Denver. Edward Christensen was one of eight children and settled in Weldona, Colorado, in 1923 because of its valuable water rights.
“The Weldon Valley Ditch was established in 1881 and is the second oldest water right on the South Platte River, making it valuable in dry years,” Wood explained.
Wood recalled stories of a particularly dry year in the early 1960s. “Our dads talk about a time when they were allowed to irrigate their crops only once. They would set the water going down a row, take a nap at the bottom and wake up when the water hit them, then move it to the next row,” she said. “It’s fightin’ words when you talk about water in Colorado.”
The family dabbled in DTC in 1995, selling their naturally raised Red Angus beef in quarter, half and whole custom beef shares. In 2017, they ramped up marketing with 10-lb. and 20-lb. boxes of hand-curated assortments, turning to social media for outreach and feedback.
“People would say they love the beef but it was too much at one time,” Wood said. “They didn’t have the freezer space, so that’s when we cut it in half to a 10-lb. package and it took off.”
As with many local producers, 2020 brought a surge in demand from consumers who wanted to buy in volume from a trusted source.
“The weekend the country shut down and stores were running low on food, we sold 800 lbs. of ground beef,” Wood said. “I couldn’t believe what was happening – we never had a week that we didn’t ship.”
Sometimes certain cuts ran out and the family had to reconfigure boxes but buyers didn’t mind. Thanks to processing appointments scheduled a year in advance with three processors – and a delivery system already in place – Christensen Ranch adapted quickly. More people were staying home, cooking roasts and briskets and even purchasing freezers to store larger orders of quarters, halves and whole beefs.
COVID-19 propelled Christensen Ranch to a new level and it now offers a full line of beef packages, including seasonal specials, shares and bulk beef, while also experimenting with beef tallow. Although the ranch has supplied local restaurants, Wood said that the market can be unpredictable.
It takes a full crew at Christensen Beef to load up orders and make sure they arrive expediently.
“When a chef likes your product, they build their menu around it,” she explained. “But when they move on, the new chef often has new recipes and doesn’t want to use the former chef’s entrées.”
Christensen beef is frozen and USDA-inspected, allowing the ranch to ship anywhere.
“We keep records and self-regulate. In agriculture, we’re used to self-regulating everything,” Wood said with a laugh. “I’ve learned a lot about shipping frozen beef, especially regarding where it’s going, what the temperature is and whether it’s traveling by ground or air.”
She noted that shipping regulations for dry ice on aircraft can be strict. “The Federal Aviation Administration will knock on your door if you’re over the 5-lb. limit and you’ll be audited,”
she said. “So, I make sure we are never over 5 lbs. of dry ice.”
Christensen Ranch aims to serve families by including the ranch’s story and cooking tips with each package. The owners also work with local food banks to support those in need.
“At Christmastime, for every order, we set aside 1 lb. of ground beef and at the end of the year, that goes to our local food bank,” Wood said. “We also donated beef that was approaching the end of its shelf life to the Colorado State University Food Bank, because some of those students are from other countries and have very little extra money for food. Grad students have families too and they struggle as well.”
When people ask Wood whether the beef is good, she often replies that she was raised on it and may be biased but
the steaks will win them over, while the ground beef will keep them as lifelong customers.
Online marketing has been a major driver of Christensen Ranch’s success. The family contracts with a marketing specialist to manage business trends and has shipped beef to social media influencers in hopes of appearing on their platforms. A recent recommendation from an influencer led to a noticeable boost in orders.
Wood is glad to share insights with other producers interested in starting a DTC business. “I’ve found that when producers first consider starting a DTC, they see the price of the beef and assume they can sell it cheaper,” she said. “That changes once they investigate the inputs.”
Eric Christensen manages recordkeeping for crops and cattle, while Kathy
oversees the boxed beef business and helps manage cattle as needed. About 1,800 head pass through the feedlot each year and roughly 225 are sold through the boxed beef program. The remaining cattle are sold as naturally raised beef to a commercial packer.
“We raise all our own feed and we think finishing the cattle on earlage gives our beef a unique taste,” Wood said. “Because our cattle are fed naturally, we aren’t pushing them as hard and it takes a couple of weeks longer to finish them.”
Having experienced agriculture’s ups and downs, Wood believes resiliency is crucial. “I tell people that making a living in agriculture isn’t for everyone,” she said. “If you can’t handle the ups and downs or the years when things don’t go well, you won’t last in agriculture. But the reward comes when you ride out the tough times and get to the good ones.” //
WEBR EXACTLY M16 | Reg: 4994497
LSF SRR EXACTLY 1144J x RED SIX MILE BRANDO 666C
A new sire group that mashed down the scales at weaning, and are genomically impressive.
WEBR WOOD RIVER M45 | Reg: 4994273
SIX MILE WOOD RIVER 219H x WEBR DOC HOLLIDAY 2N
This Wood River son just sets the tone for an impressive set of sons that will drive pro tability.
WEBR SPARTAN M33 | Reg: 4994385 WEBR SPARTAN J21 x WEBER REFORM 618
Power bulls will sell throughout the o ering, this one ranks among the breeds most elite.
WEBR REVIVAL M50 | Reg: 4994375
WEBR RED REVIVAL 78H x HXC DECLARATION 5504C
The WEBR Red Revival 78H sons set the standard of phenotypic excellence.
WEBR JUMPSTART M44 | Reg: 4994431
BIEBER JUMPSTART J137 x LSF SRR TAKEOVER 5051C
The o ering features high growth and performance studs, just like this beast.
WEBR BRANDO M79 | Reg: 4994433
RED SIX MILE BRANDO 666C x LSF SRR TAKEOVER 5051C
The Brando in uence lives on through another set of sensational sons to sell in 2025!
JBARW
JBARW HEAVEN SENT 4404
ARA 4931086•SIRE: RED U-2 ENTOURAGE 282B
84# AWW 713# AYW 1424#
23 GM 28 BW 1.0 WW 79 YW 123 Milk 33
WEBER MR REPUTATION 414
ARA 5040587•SIRE: FEDDES REPUTATION 093-2310
77# AWW 692#
JBARW MR RED KING 4502
ARA 4984689•SIRE: LSF SRR KING ARTHUR 0136H BW 71# AWW 595# AYW 1230#
29 GM 84
-5.5 WW 70 YW 117 Milk 26
JBARW MR BROWNSTONE 4409
ARA 5010379•RED U2Q MR. BROWNSTONE 551J
79# AWW 652# AYW 1274# HB 49 GM 43 BW 0.2 WW 73 YW 118 Milk 28
JBARW MR WAR HERO 4507
ARA 4955000•SIRE: RED U-2 ENTOURAGE 282B
85# AWW 4706# AYW 1413#
RED ANGUS SIRES:
Red U2Q Don Julio 450J
Red U2Q Mr Brownstone
551J Weber Mr Merlin 256
Red U2 Entourage 282B
Weber Mr War Wagon 81
JBARW Mr War Train 10
JBARW Mr Advantage 1522
Feddes Reputation 093-2310
Red U2 Double Vision 373G
CHAROLAIS SIRES: WCF Mr Silver Gun 467 WCF Mr Silver Gun 0304 ET WCF Mr Silver Gun 285 ET WC Monumental 5524 DCR General Ridge G117 WCR Kingsbury 116 NC Touche’ 1916 EC/4C Desert Storm 002 ET
Bobby B 2200 ET
Auctioneer: Seth Weishaar
HB 34 GM 27 BW -1.4 WW 7380 YW 128 Milk 24
21st Annual
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Doc ET Trump Train 3498
Red Doc ET PRIME Canyon 3474
by Nate Smith, General Manager, Top Dollar Angus
Two weeks ago, during the Superior Bellringer video sale, several missed opportunities occurred that could have helped seedstock producers boost their customers’ earnings – missed mainly because of a lack of knowledge.
During the sale, TDA had multiple groups featured and we actively promoted those Top Dollar Angus-verified cattle to our network of feedyards and backgrounders. As is often the case, one of our feedyard contacts reached out during the sale about a set of Top Dollar Angus calves up for bidding. Throughout the day we stayed in contact discussing the budget and breakeven points for the feeder.
When the Top Dollar Angus-verified calves were sold, the feedyard was unable to purchase the group at the premium price they commanded. Expressing regret over not bidding higher, he turned his attention to other lots similar to those he had hoped to buy. While reviewing his marked lots, many of which were not Top Dollar Angus-verified, he began asking questions about the cattle’s genetics – especially those carrying the Superior Progressive Genetics badge. I answered his questions as best I could, based on my knowledge of the seedstock producers and their genetics.
One of the final groups he inquired about was a set of SimAngus steers. He had requested the International Genetic Solution Feeder Profit Calculator certificate for the lot but didn’t fully understand how to interpret it.
Similar to TDA, the IGS Feeder Profit Calculator evaluates the genetic merit of the sires used by commercial cowcalf producers and calculates a relative genetic value. This value is presented along with a one-to-five-star ranking system for key traits including Quality Grade, Yield Grade, Carcass Weight, Average Daily Gain and Feed Conversion.
The Feeder Profit Calculator also incorporates other variables such as vaccination and health history to generate a relative management value. These values are expressed in terms of dollars per hundredweight as a relative value and the final score combines the genetic and management values. The certificate includes the sires’ registration numbers for reference.
Back to our situation, the feeder shared the Feeder Profit Calculator certificate with us and we immediately evaluated the sires’ EPDs using our normal Top Dollar Angus evaluation. Unfortunately, by the time we completed our evaluation, that group of cattle had sold. Our evaluation confirmed the cattle would have qualified for TDA and the feeder said he would have bid on them had he known.
While researching the sires, it became apparent which seedstock producer the rancher was working with. Fortunately, I knew the seedstock producer and decided to reach out. Although we had previously discussed the TDA program, he hadn’t signed up as a seedstock partner. After sharing the day’s
www.topdollarangus.com
Nate Smith, General Manager (620) 546-4839 nate@topdollarangus.com
Andrea Rutledge • (406) 399-3993 andrea@topdollarangus.com
Andy Albrecht • (402) 922-1000 andy@topdollarangus.com
to use the Feeder Profit Calculator but was unaware they were selling through the Bellringer sale.
This scenario is more common than many might expect. Even TDA seedstock partners occasionally encounter similar challenges. Despite their efforts to provide superior genetics and encourage customers to use genetic-merit-scoring programs, opportunities are sometimes lost simply because critical information is not shared.
In this case, the seedstock producer recognized the value of having a dedicated team – whether at the association level or through a program like Top Dollar Angus – that actively monitors customers’ feeder cattle marketing schedules. Such proactive efforts can deliver significant returns and ensure that opportunities are maximized and missed connections with prospective buyers are avoided.
Since this incident, the breeder has joined TDA as a seedstock partner. When asked what made him decide to sign on, his response was, “Every missed opportunity for customer service is remembered by the customer and they remember it on bull sale day too.” //
COOKSLEY MONUMENT 404 | REG: 5035917
Sire: BCRR MONUMENT 110J
MGS: B LAZY T MR D043 G013
RIDGE RANCH HAND 4521 | REG: 4957640
Sire: STRA RANCH HAND 2010
MGS: RIDGE COMPASS 7087
RIDGE CRAFTSMAN 4404 | REG: 5007859
Sire: 5L CRAFTSMAN 1134-150X
MGS: 5L LEGEND 1553-425V
COOKSLEY MONUMENT 401 | REG: 5035933
Sire: BCRR MONUMENT 110J
MGS: RED LWNBRG FALLOUT 100G
RIDGE QUINDARO 4160 | REG: 4957788
Sire: LACY QUINDARO 056J
MGS: RED U2 MALBEC 195D
RIDGE CAPITALIST 4023 | REG: 4958056
Sire: RIDGE CAPITALIST 0422
MGS: S A V REGARD 4863
COOKSLEY QUARTERBACK 403 | REG: 5035965
Sire: PIE QUARTERBACK 001
MGS: WFL PROFITMAKER E7030
RIDGE EXILE 4047 | REG: 4958008
Sire: RED LWNBRG EXILE 11K
MGS: 5L SIERRA MIST 01-09A
RIDGE BLOCKANNA 2133-4563 | REG: 4957556
Sire: RED KENRAY FERDINAND 42K
MGS: RRA STEWARD 9216
Plus sons of SSS DISCO 809K ▶
SSS TESSERA 796K
RED SSS LUSTER 373J
RED SSS GRANITE 74H
RED SSS AMBUSH 771X
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Dave, Mary Beth, & Adam Sibbald ~ Dylan, Karissa, Laina & Hayes 53193 Highway 1 ~ Calgary Alberta ~ T3Z 3G8
5L Gaucho
Peyton Andras
by Peyton Andras, JRA Board
The Junior Red Angus Association plays a huge role in promoting the Red Angus breed among young cattle enthusiasts. The organization not only creates a love for livestock but it also equips members with the tools and knowledge to excel in the cattle industry. It encourages members to participate in events such as the Red Angus Youth Expo, JRA Round-Up and SPARK to build industry knowledge and valuable skills. JRA members gain hands-on experience that will serve them well in their future in agriculture.
JRA also emphasizes the impact of genetic selection in cattle breeding. Junior members learn the importance of choosing high-quality breeding stock which leads to herd and breed improvement.
I’ve been a JRA member for almost 10 years. Growing up on a Red Angus operation, genetic improvement always captured my attention. Even when I was younger, my dad would ask my opinion about various matters to get me thinking. He would ask which bull I liked best and why or what I would change about a female. At the time I thought these questions were trivial. Now I understand they were meant to help me see and understand cattle.
I’ve always been interested in improving our cattle operation. Two years ago, I was given the perfect opportunity when we bought our ultrasound machine. At first, I didn’t know how important it would be to learn this skill but I’ve come to understand how necessary it is. Perhaps because I was young,
Kenedy DeVoe, President - devoekenedy@gmail.com
Zachary Griffeth, Vice President - zach.griffeth.jra@gmail.com
Gracie Rogers, Secretary - jragracie1@gmail.com
Cameron Ison, Commercial Chair - jracameron1@gmail.com
Bailey Smith, Communications Chair - jrabaileyjean@gmail.com
Peyton Andras, Director - redcow51107@gmail.com
Aliceson Stranberg, Director - JRAAlicesonstranberg@gmail.com
Taryn Cox, Director - jrataryn@gmail.com
Taylor Dorsey, Junior Program Coordinator taylordorsey@redangus.org
I never imagined I could or even wanted to perform pregnancy ultrasounds. I always thought you just inserted a probe into the south end of a north-facing cow to view the calf. After gaining more experience I learned there is so much more to ultrasound.
In cattle breeding it’s used to assess reproductive traits such as fetal development and the overall health of the reproductive tract. It still fascinates me that we have the technology today to see the reproductive tract and watch a calf squirm inside its mother. That will never get old for me.
There are many benefits to ultrasound, including the ability to confirm pregnancy early and monitor fetal development. Knowing a cow’s pregnancy status with certainty is critical to our family’s operation. The ultrasound machine is one of many tools that improve our operation’s productivity and efficiency. Knowing I get to contribute in such an important way helps me take ownership of our work.
“Anyone who stops learning is old, whether at 20 or 80,” Henry Ford once said.
To all the Junior members: Learning something new is always worth it. Even if you don’t feel like doing it at the time – it will have a lasting impact. When members like you learn new things and develop your skills and knowledge, you will undoubtedly contribute to the advancement of cattle breeding for years to come. //
Website: redangus.org/jra
Facebook: juniorredangus
Instagram: juniorredangus
Snapchat: juniorredangus 2024-2025 JRA Board of Directors
Common Hashtags: #jra #redangus
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by Maclaine Shults-Mauney, RAAA editor and written content specialist
Whether you’re a seasoned cattle producer, competitive show judge or a 4-H or collegiate livestock evaluator, you know the cornerstone of cattle success starts at the ground.
In Red Angus herds, foot and leg soundness ranks among the most critical – yet sometimes overlooked –factors influencing cattle performance and longevity. Healthy, well-structured feet and legs enable animals to travel for feed and water, breed efficiently and maintain body condition throughout the year.
When structural issues arise, the consequences can ripple through an operation, triggering higher veterinary costs, early culling and diminished productivity.
Mitchell VanderWal, a South Dakota State University undergraduate research student, serving as a field specialist for RAAA in a foot and leg scoring project, has gained valuable insight into the significance of this practice.
Traveling to ranches throughout the Midwest, VanderWal collects data on key structural traits; claw shape, foot angle and hock angle. Ultimately, these phenotypic readings will assist in creating EPDs for foot and leg soundness, which can help pave the way for more informed culling and breeding decisions.
Producers can increase herd longevity and profitability by learning how to integrate foot and leg scoring into their operations and exploring how genetics, management and the environment collectively shape the lower skeletal structure of cattle.
The starting point for evaluating foot and leg integrity often begins with the basics: cattle rely on steady locomotion to eat, grow and reproduce. If a cow or bull struggles to walk, it can compromise weight gain, fertility and even survival in rugged or variable conditions. According to VanderWal, foot and leg scoring offers a tangible way to detect structural strengths and
weaknesses before they escalate.
“If cattle can’t walk effectively, that’s a big problem,” he said. “Scoring helps pinpoint structural strengths and weaknesses so producers can select animals that will hold up over time.”
Sound foot and leg structure correlates directly with both longevity and productivity. Animals that maintain a healthy stride typically remain in the herd longer, reducing replacement costs.
This concept becomes especially critical for bull buyers. If a bull can’t effectively travel to breed cows, pregnancy rates will drop, significantly affecting an operations bottom line – particularly in today’s competitive market. Over time, multiple structural problems can undercut overall profitability, making foot and leg scoring a valuable safeguard for the entire herd.
For bull buyers, structural soundness is pivotal. VanderWal noted that a bull’s hock angle, claw shape and pastern strength all determine how well he can handle breeding demands. In areas with challenging terrain – muddy feedlots, rocky fields or steep hills –soundness often becomes the deciding factor for a bull’s effectiveness.
“Bulls rely heavily on their hocks and overall flexibility,” VanderWal said. “A bull with poor conformation might struggle to breed efficiently, which can result in fewer calves on the ground and a weaker bottom line.”
Covering cows and producing functional offspring is a bull’s primary purpose – and structural integrity is vital in carrying out that role across multiple generations. Sound bulls lay the groundwork for profitable herds. When shopping for a new sire, producers should remember a bull’s foot and leg structure is more than a detail – it’s a deciding factor in long-term success.
Though breed associations and industry experts vary slightly in their guidelines, foot and leg scoring generally focuses on three core traits:
1. Claw Shape
Ideal: Toes point forward and are neither excessively splayed nor overlapping.
Concerns: Splayed (toes spread widely apart) or scissor claws (overlapping toes) create uneven weight distribution, leading to discomfort or lameness.
2. Foot Angle
Ideal: A pastern that’s flexible but not too upright, enabling a normal stride.
Concerns: A shallow, laid-back pastern can cause animals to walk on the back of the hoof, while an overly upright pastern may reduce mobility and stride length.
Ideal: Enough angle to allow fluid movement without overly bending the legs beneath the body.
Concerns: A post-legged (very straight) hock restricts mobility and a sickle-hocked (overly bent) leg can strain joints and reduce stride efficiency.
“You always want to start from the
ground up,” VanderWal said. “Claws pointed forward, a suitably flexible pastern and a hock angle that promotes a fluid, comfortable stride are hallmarks of sound cattle.”
In this project, VanderWal travels to participating ranches to score each animal – usually yearling bulls, yearling heifers and bred heifers – on claw shape, foot angle and hock angle, then records the data in Excel.
These phenotypic assessments are paired with genomic information to eventually create a comprehensive genetic evaluation of foot and leg traits.
Although a standalone EPD for foot and leg soundness is still in development, standardizing the way producers collect and submit data is critical. Over time, the Beef Improvement Federation guidelines, along with RAAA scoring references, can help unify these efforts.
“We match the phenotypic readings to genomic markers,” VanderWal explained. “It’s all about building toward an EPD that will allow producers to target foot and leg soundness in their herds, much like they do for growth or carcass traits.”
Until a standalone EPD becomes available, producers can still take a proactive, independent approach to improving herd soundness, especially when it comes to purchasing new bulls.
1. Choose the Right Environment
Scoring is most accurate when cattle stand naturally on solid ground. Mud, ice or rocky terrain can alter an animal’s stance, making it difficult to gauge true claw shape or foot angle. If possible, evaluate cattle in a quiet, dry pen – concrete or firm dirt works best.
2. Score at the Right Age
Producers usually target animals between 270 days and 500 days of age (shortly after weaning but before sale season). Assessing the entire contemporary group at once provides a consistent snapshot of structural differences and ensures comparisons among similarly raised cattle.
3. Evaluate Consistently
Accurate scoring relies on a standardized scoring guide, such as RAAA’s foot and leg chart. Practice is essential.
“It takes time to develop your eye,” VanderWal noted. “When I started, I double-checked myself at first. Over time, I built a clear mental image of what a 5 or 6 looks like in each category.”
4. Maintain Detailed Records
Use a notebook, spreadsheet or herd management software to record and track scores. Claw shape can shift over time – especially in mature cows exposed to varied con-
ditions – so comparing year-to-year data can help detect developing structural problems.
While environment and management undoubtedly influence foot and leg health, genetics also play a pivotal role. Many structural traits have a moderate level of heritability and selective breeding can help correct weaknesses.
“If there’s a valuable female with slightly straighter structure, breeding her to a bull known for added flex in the pastern and hock can balance the calf,” VanderWal explained. “Over generations, a herd can move closer to that ideal midpoint.”
The old adage “You are what you eat” holds true for cattle as well. What producers feed their animals directly affects phenotype, underscoring the importance of a comprehensive nutrition plan. Coupled with a stable environment, these factors are crucial for developing structurally sound animals.
Feeding high-energy rations can lead to faster hoof growth, occasionally requiring trimming to prevent lameness. A more moderate nutrition plan often helps maintain natural hoof shape and avoids pushing heifers or bulls too hard, too fast.
If cattle are raised on pasture, excessive mud and moisture can cause animals to stand with their weight shifted onto their heels, potentially interfering with normal hoof wear. In drier climates, hooves may wear more evenly, though extremely firm ground can place stress on joints. In both scenarios, foot and leg scoring can highlight the impact of environmental conditions and help producers adapt their management strategies.
Cattle raised in controlled environments like dry lots or feed yards should, in theory, be easier to score.
However, facility design can help or hinder producer efforts. Having a clear, unobstructed view of each animal’s stance is key.
When considering pen surfaces – concrete or dirt – producers should note while concrete may promote even hoof wear, it can also accumulate manure quickly and become slick in wet conditions which may lead to injury. Dirt may be less prone to slick spots but still needs regular upkeep to maintain safe and functional conditions.
Pen size matters too. Overcrowding can force cattle into unnatural stances, which can result in skewed scores. Seasonality is another factor to consider. Freezing temperatures can cause animals to stand tensely, which can mask or exaggerate structural issues.
By keeping these factors in mind, producers are better equipped to get an accurate read on foot and leg soundness.
According to VanderWal, it’s best to avoid scoring in muddy, icy or cramped pens. More accurate results can be observed on even surfaces, with enough space for cattle to stand comfortably.
He advises scoring animals at similar ages and life stages to ensure accurate comparisons, which can reveal both top performers and those needing closer scrutiny. A minor toe-out, for example, may worsen over time, so keeping consistent records can guide culling or selection decisions. Annual scoring also helps spot early structural decline. If multiple cattle display poor foot and leg health or unusual posture, it may point to environmental issues – such as inadequate drainage –as the underlying cause.
Scoring’s Role in Culling and Breeding Foot and leg scores can guide culling decisions, especially when selecting replacement heifers. A yearling that
already shows compromised structure may not perform well in strenuous pasture conditions, especially if fertility and performance traits are merely average.
A bull’s role in shaping the calf crop is immense. For operations in areas with steep or rocky terrain, a bull with sturdy pasterns and ideal claw shape can produce offspring capable of traveling confidently. Even in flat or moderate environments, the foundational need for robust foot and leg structure remains.
“If a bull’s feet and legs won’t hold up, no other trait can compensate for that,” VanderWal said. “It’s often the difference between a bull that breeds effectively for multiple seasons and one that yields poor conception rates or requires early culling.”
Maintaining a year-to-year record of foot and leg scores in addition to
fertility, weight and other metrics, allows producers to spot patterns. By pairing the data with pedigrees or genomic results, breeders can identify the soundest sources and phase out bloodlines prone to problems.
Even though a formal EPD for foot and leg structure is still in the works for Red Angus producers, VanderWal remains optimistic about the future. With unified data collection and expanded genomic testing, these scores could one day appear in sale catalogs alongside weaning weights and marbling EPDs.
“Eventually, we hope producers can look at a bull’s foot and leg EPD with the same confidence they have in birth weight EPDs,” VanderWal noted. “Until that happens, consistent scoring remains our best tool.”
Foot and leg scoring goes beyond
“If a bull’s feet and legs won’t hold up, no other trait can compensate for that.”
a simple checklist; it’s a proactive measure essential for safeguarding the health, productivity and longevity. By systematically assessing key structural traits – claw shape, foot angle and hock angle – producers gain the insights needed to make informed culling and breeding decisions. Over time, those cumulative improvements yield a herd primed for maximum mobility, efficient weight gain and overall durability.
The secret lies in consistent practice and clear goals. By developing a keen eye for structural soundness, maintaining thorough records and adapting management strategies as needed, producers will see rewards that extend well beyond the sale ring. It all begins, quite literally, from the ground up. //
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Redland Red Angus, Hysham, MT
Sutherlin Farms and 3C Red Angus, Stevensville, MT
Lucht Red Angus, Bozeman, MT
Feddes Red Angus, C-T Red Angus, Manhattan, MT
Loosli Red Angus, Ashton, ID
Heart River Red Angus, Belfield, ND
Fritz Red Angus, Brady, MT
Leland Red Angus,Sidney, MT
Milk Creek Reds, Plevna, MT
Green Mountain Red Angus, Logan, MT
Klompien Red Angus & CK Red Angus, Manhattan, MT
Martin Red Angus , Malta, MT
Laubach Red Angus, Malta, MT
Fischer Red Angus, Harlowton, MT
Westphal Red Angus, Grass Range, MT
Gibbs Red Angus, Glasgow, MT
Northern Lites Red Angus, Glasgow, MT
Koenig Red Angus, Glasgow, MT
Big Sky Elite Female Sale, Logan, MT
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• Bulls are grown out, not fed out
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Ben & Cassie Kleppe 3220 48th St SE Dawson, ND 58428 (701) 327-8330 • (701) 426-9210 crosshairsimmental.com
James
The 2025 Cattlemen’s Congress in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, showcased some of the nation’s best Red Angus genetics during the National Red Angus Show, despite frigid temperatures and challenging conditions. Exhibitors
from across the country hauled in their top-tier cattle, demonstrating the breed’s renowned quality and resilience.
“These exceptional cattle represent
the commitment and hard work of Red Angus breeders and exhibitors,” said Erin Dorsey, RAAA show specialist. “We applaud every exhibitor for braving the cold and raising the bar for Red Angus excellence.”
2025 National Red Angus Open Show – Judges: Mark and Deb Core
Grand Champion Open Female BJF FANCY LADY 3036L – Kelly Gaffney, Barneveld, WI
Reserve Grand Champion Open Female DUCH TC MISS EAGLE 308L – Addison Vowell, Forest, MS
Grand Champion Open Percentage Female TRAVE TLBT MAGGIE MAY 408M – Cade Williams, Maysville, OK
Grand Champion Open Bull 3ACES LEVEL UP 9562 – Annie Meier, Clinton, TN
Reserve Grand Champion Open Bull BWP DKBF RED WAVE 59K – E7194, 74 51 Cattle Co., Marshall, OK; Brown Farms, Lamoni, IA; Bret Pembrook, Fairview, OK
Reserve Grand Champion Open Percentage Female MCL SMILES 3011 – Allyse Lents, Creston, IA
by Maclaine Shults-Mauney, RAAA editor and written content specialist
Tony Tolar has been named the 2025 Red Angus Herdsman of the Year. The award was presented at the Cattlemen’s Congress in Oklahoma City, honoring Tolar’s exceptional management practices and dedication to advancing the Red Angus breed.
The Herdsman of the Year is presented to a hands-on individual who has most effectively presented his or herself and their cattle professionally while at RAAA-sponsored shows throughout the previous calendar year.
Tolar, who grew up in Columbia, Mississippi, earned a Bachelor of Science in animal science from Mississippi State University and later completed a Master of Divinity at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary.
Along with more than 30 years of experience in ranch management across Mississippi, Texas and Oklahoma, he has devoted the last 15 years to working with Red Angus cattle.
Tolar credits the cattle industry for providing him and his wife, Edie, the opportunity to raise their three children: Owen, Chloe and Truett, in a setting they all enjoy.
He currently manages the Oklahoma division of Sandridge Land and Cattle in Perkins, Oklahoma, where he oversees a robust embryo trans-
fer program and organizes fall and spring cattle sales. Tolar believes in the power of genetic diversity and sees a bright future for the Red Angus breed in meeting the evolving needs of the beef industry.
“I believe in the benefits Red Angus cattle offer both registered and commercial producers,”Tolar said. “We have a bright future and I am grateful to be part of it.” //
The Red Angus Association of America is soliciting entries for the RAAA Photo Contest. The contest will run from Jan. 1 through March 31. Photos must be submitted to bit.ly/2025PhotoContest and fit one of these categories:
March 31 5 p.m.
Questions? Contact: Katie Martin katiemartin@redangus.org
RED ANGUS
Mark & Kathy Barenthsen
Jeremy & Jessica Bullinger
Powers Lake, ND • bbredangus.com
Mark: 701/464-5741 • 701/339-1834
Jeremy: 701/464-4893 • 701-339-2899
Jessica: 701/339-7922 mkbar@nccray.com • jbullinger@nccray.net
BRADEMEYER FARMS
Mike Brademeyer • Verona, ND 701/742-2598 • 701/710-0445 kbrademeyer@drtel.net brademeyerfarmsredangus.com
BRENNER ANGUS
Sidney & Melva Brenner • Carson, ND 701/584-3335 • 701/471-9135 brennersmb@gmail.com
BROKEN HEART RANCH
Gary & Chad Pederson • Firesteel, SD 605/865-3190 • 605/850-9878 bhrredangus@lakotanetwork.com www.pedersonredangus.com
CAMPBELL RED ANGUS
Robert Campbell • McIntosh, SD 701/422-3721 • 605/845-4812 campbellra@westriv.com www.campbellredangus.com
DAHLKE RED ANGUS
Bryantt Bolduc • Arlan Dahkle Bagley, MN 218/533-0259 • 218/694-6727 dahlkerancher@yahoo.com dalhlkeredangus.com
DK RED ANGUS
Scott Kueffler • Grenora, ND 701/694-3620 • 701/641-0519 redangus@nccray.com www.dkredangus.net
DRY CREEK RANCH
Max and Haley Robison • Amidon, ND 701/523-8285
Max: 406/461-3462 • Haley: 701/523-8285 haley@drycreekranchnd.com www.drycreekranchnd.com
FORSTER RED ANGUS
Kenneth Forster • Richardton, ND 701/974-2450 • 701/290-2450 forsterredangus@yahoo.com www.forsterredangus.com
HEART RIVER RANCH
Chuck & Annette Steffan • Belfield, ND Annette: 701/290/9745 • Chuck: 701/260-4630 heartrivergenetics@yahoo.com www.heartrivergenetics.com
HUBER EY RED ANGUS
Bryan & Emmy Huber • Jud, ND 701/685-2687 • Bryan: 701-320-8054 Alex: 701-709-0850 Emmy: 701-320-1995 emmy@drtel.net • www.hubereyredangus.com
KALBERER RANCH
Jesse & Susan Kalberer • Bismarck, ND 701/425-0111 • Jesse: 701/471-4388 kalbererjesse@hotmail.com www.kalbererfarms.com
KAL-KOTA RANCH
Ed Kalianoff • Steele, ND 701/475-2694 • 701/471-4006 kalkota@bektel.com • www.kalkotaranch.com
KOESTER RED ANGUS
Steve & Tracey Koester • Steele, ND
Steve: 701/400-1611 • Tracey: 701/391-5440 koesterredangus@gmail.com www.koesterredangus.com
L83 RANCH
Ben Lodoen • Rylee Marthaler
Wyatt Lodoen • Jennie Lodoen • Westhope, ND
Ben: 701/201-0477 • Rylee: 701/263-1018 Wyatt: 701/263-1787 • Jennie: 701/263-1016 lodeoncattle@gmail.com • L83Ranch.com
LARSON’S LOST RIVER
David Larson • Dan Larson • Clearbrook, MN
David: 218/766-3323 • Dan: 402/560-4052 david.larson.lrl@gmail.com www.lostriverlivestockmn.com
LAZY D RED ANGUS
John & Sara Berg • Cody Berg • Williston, ND
John: 701/826-4211 • 701/570-9788
Cody: 701/826-4231 • 701/570-0730 lazydredangus@yahoo.com
LAZY J BAR RANCH
John & Stephanie Jung • Mina, SD John: 605/228-1743 Stephanie: 605/380-1796 lazyjbarranch@yahoo.com lazyjbarranch.com
LELAND RED ANGUS
Melvin & Luella Leland
Melvin: 701/565-2347 • 406/489-1465
Todd & Carla Leland • Sidney, MT Todd: 701/565-2361 • 406/489-1466 lelandra@restel.net • lelandredangus.com
MCGEE RED ANGUS
Doug & Darcy McGee • Bowman, ND Kruze & Bailey Robinson Doug: 701/523-6086 Bailey: 701/523-6179 • Kruze: 701/449-6597 ddmcgee@ndsupernet.com bailey_mcgee@ndsupernet.com mcgeeredangus.com
MISSOURI RIVER
RED ANGUS
Blake & Whitney Wold • Watford City, ND 701/770-4105 missouririverredangus@gmail.com missouririverredangus.com
NORDLUND STOCK FARMS LLC
Mike Nordlund: 701/799-0943
Sam Nordlund: 701/799-1613 Clearbrook, MN nordlundstockfarm@gvtel.com nordlundstockfarm.com
OHR RED ANGUS
Edward, Jeanne & Carl Olson • Argusville, ND Ed: 701/238-3601 • Carl: 701/361-0684 olsoncandc@aol.com • olsonredpower.com
OLAND RED ANGUS
Klay and Kassie Oland • Leonard, ND 701/238-2492 • klay.oland@gmail.com
PRESSER RED ANGUS
Troy Presser • Turtle Lake, ND 701/447-2855 • 701/220-0189 tpresser@westriv.com
Watch for more exciting events in North Dakota!
March 1 DK Red Angus, Sidney Livestock, Sidney, MT
March 1 Dry Creek Ranch, Online Sale, Ranch
March 3 Campbell Red Angus, Ranch, McIntosh, SD
March 5 Broken Heart Ranch, Ranch, Firesteel, SD
March 12 Heart River Ranch, Feedlot, Belfield, ND
March 14 Leland Red Angus & Koester Red Angus, Ranch, Sidney, MT
March 23 Dahlke Red Angus, Ranch, Bagley, MN
March 25 L83 Ranch, Kist Livestock, Mandan
April 7 Presser Red Angus, Ranch, Turtle Lake
April 2 Missouri River Red Angus, McKenzie Co. Ag Expo, Watford City, ND
April 24 Kuhn’s Red Angus and Huber EY Red Angus, Napoleon Livestock, Napoleon
May 3 Oland Red Angus, Ranch, Sheldon, ND
Website: ndredangus.org • Facebook: North Dakota Red Angus Association
RESSLER LAND & CATTLE
Mark or Bryan Ressler • Binford, ND 701/789-0191 • 701/789-7294 contact@resslerlandandcattle.com www.resslerlandandcattle.com
RHODES RED ANGUS RANCH
Jordon Rhodes: 605/228-9301 • Faulkton, SD Jackson Rhodes: 605/216-7841 kellirhodes6@hotmail.com jordan.rhodes@live.com
ROHRICH’S
CUTTING EDGE RANCH
Rick, Amber & Kaden Rohrich • Steele, ND Rick: 701/391-1911 • Kaden: 701/934-4178 cuttingedgeranch@bektel.com
SCHRIEFER RANCH LLC
Marc, Jodi, Riley, Cheyenne Schriefer Golden Valley, ND 701/870-4292 • 701/879-2609 701/983-4292 • 701/870-4292 marcjodi@icloud.com schrieferredangus.com
SEEGER & RUSCH RED ANGUS
Brandon & Dixie Rusch • Sherill Seeger New Salem, ND • ruschvet@gmail.com Brandon: 701/226-5479 • Dixie: 701/426-9443 Sherill: 701/400-5077 seeger-ruschredangus.com
TURTLE RIVER CATTLE CO. Ron & Ryan Clemetson • Grand Forks, ND 701/739-0639 • 701/741-6407 trreds@hotmail.com
TWEDT RED ANGUS
Sam Twedt • McHenry, ND 701/262-4768 • 701/388-4035 twedtredangus@hotmail.com www.twedtredangus.com
VALNES RANCH RED ANGUS
Emit & Jayme Valnes • Eden, SD 605/698-6596 • 605/228-8857 valnesranch@hotmail.com • valnesranch.com
WASEM RED ANGUS
Chris & Jolyn Wasem • Halliday, ND 701/938-8365 • 701/260-1513 jolyn.wasem@gmail.com wasemredangus.com
ND Red Angus Association
President: Bryan Ressler
Vice President: Ben Lodoen
Immediate Past Pres.: Sam Twedt
Directors: Ryan Clemetson, Rick Rohrich, Max Robison & Blake Wold
Sec./Treas.: Chuck & Annette Steffan 701/290-9745 ndredangus.org heartrivergenetics@yahoo.com
Teresa Marie Hughes
It is with tremendous sadness we announce the passing of our beloved mother, Teresa “Teri” Marie Hughes on Jan. 14, 2025.
Teri was born May 2, 1963, in Fargo, North Dakota, to Harold and Pat Hughes. The oldest of three children, Teri was raised in a hardworking “do it yourself” ranch family, a legacy she carried on throughout her entire life.
The Hughes family relocated to Polson, Montana, where Teri grew up and lived for many years. She graduated from Polson High School in 1981 as homecoming queen and a member of the drill team. Teri then attended the University of Montana, graduating with a bachelor’s degree in accounting in 1985, and eventually went on to earn her CPA license.
Teri was a force to be reckoned with, if she wanted something done, she would pour her grit and determination into making it so. Her work ethic and strong faith were something all who knew her admired. These qualities served her well in the decades of ranching and raising children and grandchildren.
She could be found up at midnight to hay, or at all hours of the night calving. Teri and her son Luke spent many years cultivating a great herd of Red Angus Cattle in Drummond, Montana. She dedicated her life to ranching.
Teri’s favorite time of the year was spring. She loved the calving season and seeing new life brought into the world. Her favorite place to be was outside amongst the cows, burning ditches or beloved rituals like shopping for flowers with her daughters on Mother’s Day.
Teri was an avid quilter and reader, traditions she passed down to her children. Many of her favorite days were spent with her kids in her sewing room watching Days of Our Lives working on a quilt for someone she loved.
Teri was the type of person who would drop anything to help someone in need. Acts of service was her love language. She felt fulfillment when she could help someone through a hard time.
All her family and friends knew they could count on Teri to be there in an hour of need, no matter the circumstances. This was her best quality as well as her sense of humor.
Teri’s family, her children and her grandkids and those she adopted as such were her greatest joy. She was the best grandma (Mimo) and all the kids that knew her absolutely loved her. In the words of Teri, “It’s ok to miss me, but do not miss me so much that you miss out on living life.”
Contact Ryan at 641-780-5952
West Wind’s 2024 calf crop outperforms the breed average:
• HerdBuilder in the top 46%
• GridMaster in the top 20%
• ProS in the top 24%
These metrics confirm our commitment to superior, well-rounded genetics for your herd’s future.
Teri is survived by her parents, Harold and Pat Hughes, siblings Vince and Michelle Hughes and family, Chris and Diana Hughes and family, her three children, Luke and Betsy Larson and family, Emilie and EJ Pribyl and family, Sarah and Eric Wulf and family, and the Angelo stepchildren and their families. As well as her extended family and those she treated as such. Her friends and family will miss her tremendously.
A service was be held at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Polson, Montana, on Feb. 7, 2025. //
Red Angus Highlights
BCRR Lead Time 331L commanded a top bid of $14,250 from Allen Red Angus, Ainsworth, Nebraska, who was also the sale’s top volume buyer taking home seven head.
BCRR Monument 327L sold to Roger Lechtenburg, Ainsworth, Nebraska, for $10,000.
BCRR Mr. 3110L, a top son of Fritz Monument, sold to Gordon Cattle Co., Chinook, Montana, for $10,000.
BCRR Momentum 339L, went home with Ravenscroft Red Angus of Nenzel, Nebraska, and commanded a bid of $10,000.
The last two Monument sons brought $7,500 and $6,500 respectively.
Limousin/LimFlex Highlights
BRAW Empize 3237L, son of Wulf’s Emprize, sold to Jon Soukup of Lesterville South Dakota, for $8,000.
BRAW WF 3229L, son of CJSL Windfall, sold to Schmale Farms and Feedlot for $8,000.
BRAW Defend 3202L, son of Wulf’s Defend, sold to Cindy Doke of Wray, Colorado for $6,500.
BRAW Yellowstone 3261L, son of JBV Yellowstone, sold to Wulf Cattle of Morris, Minnesota, for $6,500. //
Area 1 –West
Director – George Murdock
FORSTER RED ANGUS
DANIEL FORSTER 13040 ORANGE ROAD WILTON, CA 95693
ROCKIN REDS
TIMOTHY & CARIN JOHNSON 9100 MORAGA WAY PALO CEDRO, CA 96073
GREEN MOUNTAIN CATTLE CO
JANET & BOB ELLIS
200 MILL CREEK DR TOLEDO, WA 98591
BAR 29 LIVESTOCK
CALEB PETERS
3891 ROAD E NE MOSES LAKE, WA 98837
Area 2 – Montana
Director – Kay Klompien
GIDEON LIVESTOCK
DANIEL CROSS
1157 WILL CREEK ROAD RED LODGE, MT 59068
LARAMIE HAUG PO BOX 323 LODGE GRASS, MT 59050
ROCKING 6P LLC
MELISSA PRICE
77 TWIN BRIDGES ROAD ANTELOPE, MT 59211
Area 3 – Rocky Mountain
Director – Aaron Kravig
ANF RANCH
ROBERT ARNDT 5287 SUNSET RIDGE DR COLORADO SPRINGS, CO 80917
TANNER RUPPLE
6996 COUN ROAD C WIGGINS, CO 80654
M M RED ANGUS
JOHN MOORE
305 PINETREE ROAD GILLETTE, WY 82718
Area 4 – Southwest
Director – Tony Ballinger
AUTREY CATTLE CO.
RANDY AUTREY PO BOX 76 WILLARD, NM 87063
FRYING PAN CATTLE
COREY FISCHBACHER
2657 HWY 419 SOLANO, NM 87746
ALVARADO RANCH
ISRAEL ALVARADO
9618 KERRWOOD LN HOUSTON, TX 77080
SARA AULTMAN
2829 FM 1010 CLEVELAND, TX 77327
RED RIVER TX CATTLE CO.
JULIAN CALABRIA
319 LINHURST DRIVE MURPHY, TX 75094
MARGO HOOPER P.O. BOX 624 TIMPSON, TX 75975
R&H CATTLE CO
SCOTT HUNTON P.O. BOX 276 PONDER, TX 76259
INTREPID RANCH
1020 COUNTY ROAD 136 CISCO, TX 76437
ALEXANDREA JENNINGS
6026 CAPE DR. CHANDLER, TX 75758
CIRCLE N RANCH
JUSTIN NOSEFF 5016 COUNTY ROAD 7890 LUBBOCK, TX 79424
ADALYNN RENDON 17415 SWANSBURY DR. CYPRESS, TX 77429
PJR CATTLE
PAUL RICHARDS 3188 US HWY 82 BELLS, TX 75414
WILLIAMS RANCH
MALLORY TOLLESON 3640 FM 4 JACKSBORO, TX 76458
TOUNGET FARMS
DOUG TOUNGET
500 DITMORE LANE BRONTE, TX 76933
Area 5 – Northern Plains
Director – Stephanie Jung
LANGE FARMS
LANA LANGE 40776 180TH LANE GLENCOE, MN 55336
LINDBO CATTLE CO.
STETSON LINDBO 7500 205TH AVE SW DOUGLAS, ND 58735
DRY CREEK RANCH
MAX ROBISON
7007 135TH AVE SW AMIDON, ND 58620
ABERLE RANCH
CHRISTOPHER ABERLE
25875 137TH ST. GLENCROSS, SD 57630
BARRETT BUTZER
47825 296TH ST ALCESTER, SD 57001
BC CATTLE CO.
SARA CIBIC
13554 REMINGTON ROAD VALE, SD 57788
SANDY WILLOW RED ANGUS
TATE GAIKOWSKI
44753 137ST WAUBAY, SD 57273
HENNEBOLD RED ANGUS
LUKE HENNEBOLD
28018 315TH AVE. WINNER, SD 57580
JOSIE JOHNSON 45250 250TH ST MONTROSE, SD 57048
EASY STREET RED ANGUS
SAMANTHA JOHNSON 25717 399TH AVE MT. VERNON, SD 57363
KENTON TIMMONS
18059 464TH AVE CASTLEWOOD, SD 57223
WEBER RED ANGUS
DEAN WEBER
39120 292ND STREET WAGNER, SD 57380
Area 6 – Great Plains
Director – Jason Anderson
LAZY R RANCH
RAYDEN SHAY 1210 RS 877
ST. FRANCIS, KS 67756
LAZY R RANCH
RAYDEN SHAY 1210 RS 877 ST. FRANCIS, KS 67756
YELLICO CATTLE CO.
JOHN YELLICO 307 S 6TH ST
SAINT MARYS, KS 66536
H&H CATTLE
LEVI HEESE
512 17TH STREET
WISNER, NE 68791
H&H CATTLE
LEVI HEESE
512 17TH STREET
WISNER, NE 68791
JAMES AND JOHN WETOVICK
JAMES WETOVICK
27788 STATE HWY 22 FULLERTON, NE 68638
BRODY BASHAW 5100 E. 33RD STREET EDMOND, OK 73013
IZZY BYRD
2803 W 104TH ST PERKINS, OK 74059
CHLOEE CLARK 471487 EAST 1135 RD MULDROW, OK 74948
DEER CREEK FARMS
JOSH EAVES 14276 S DEER CREEK RD ATOKA, OK 74525
FESMIRE CATTLE CO. LLC
LOGAN FESMIRE 67264 CARTER ROAD HELENA, OK 73741
AVERY FISHER
62295 NORTH 2650 RD OKEENE, OK 73763
ADDYSON FRAZIER 4331 SNOWS AREANA RD GARVIN, OK 74736
DEVYN FRAZIER PO BOX 1012 MEEKER, OK 74855
ROCKING A RANCH
KENNY HOLMAN PO BOX 1736 MCALESTER, OK 74502
COOPER HUTT
48668 S CR 214 MUTUAL, OK 73853
KORBIN HUTT 48668 S CR 214 MUTUAL, OK 73853
PAISLEY CATTLE CO. DUSTIN JONES PO BOX 702 LOCUST GROVE, OK 74352
AINSLIE MCENDOO 1520 SOUTH COTTENWOOD R STILLWATER, OK 74074
DOUBLE TINE-SPUR GENETIC RANCHES LLC
JEFF OWEN 23177 S 4260 RD VINITA, OK 74301
LANIE SASSER 3851 DARRIL RD EDMOND, OK 73025
LARAMIE SASSER 3851 DARRIL RD EDMOND, OK 73025
ANNIE KAY SPROUL 264508 E CR 54 ISABELLA, OK 73747
GENTRY SPROUL 264508 E CR 54 ISABELLA, OK 73747
ADYSEN THOMPSON 56571 MOCCASIN TRAIL ROAS PRAGUE, OK 74864
CALEDON WEAVER 11050 CR 1270 FORT COBB, OK 73038
CASON WEAVER 11050 CR 1270 FORT COBB, OK 73038
Area 7 – Northeast
Director – Rob Hess
TIMOTHY FITZGERALD 1418 N COUNTY ROAD 450 W SULLIVAN, IN 47882
ELLA GRUBBS 3312 E 800 S HILLSBORO, IN 47949
REAGAN LEEPER 14699 HICKORY RD ARGOS, IN 46501
WILLIAM BREWSTER 1053 DRIFT ROAD WESTPORT, MA 2790
ROBERT ARNOLD 1715 S. BEGOLE RD ITHACA, MI 48847
GODDARD FAMILY FARMS
DEREK GODDARD 467 CALLOWAY GAP ROAD WEST JEFFERSON, NC 28694
GREENLEE FAMILY FARMS
KYLER GREENLEE 759 STATE ROUTE 850 BIDWELL, OH 45614
K2 RED ANGUS
MARK KOHLER 6986 KNOX SCHOOL RD MINERVA, OH 44657
MESPO GRASS FARM
MARK MILLER
7952 PACKMAN MESPO ROAD MIDDLEFIELD, OH 44062
RED ANGUS ROOTS
MARKUS MILLER
1040 TATER RIDGE WEST UNION, OH 45693
TRIPLE BROOK RED ANGUS
GUY R DAUBENSPECK
128 STEVENSON ROAD RENFREW, PA 16053
SYCAMORE CREEK
CATTLE CO. JUSTIN CAIN
663 SEVEN PINES RD MANNINGTON, WV 26582
Area 8 – Southeast
Director – Jim Yance
BARNES FARMS LLC
ROY BARNES 447 WHITLOCK AVE MARIETTA, GA 30064
JIMMY OATES PO BOX 97 REGISTER, GA 30452
WALKING W CATTLE WILL BANKS 813 SALEM PIKE CYNTHIANA, KY 41031
ROLLIN “J” FARM
GARY JORNOV 11869 EAST VALLEY ROAD DUNLAP, TN 37327
OWEN FARM
TANNER OWEN 2831 HWY 12 N CHAPMANSBORO, TN 37035
PRATER FARMS
MICHAELA SAIN 296 DICKERSON ROAD MORRISON, TN 37357
Area 9 – Midwest
Director – Will Andras
DAVID BOSWELL
DAVID BOSWELL 2323 255TH ST HUMBOLDT, IA 50548
COREY DAMMAN 1894 330TH ST MELBOURNE, IA 50162
KAHLER FARMS
KATLNY KAHLER 58833 HWY 210 CAMBRIDGE, IA 50046
KAHLER FARMS
KATLNY KAHLER 58833 HWY 210 CAMBRIDGE, IA 50046
CARLEY KINTZLE 10227 LONE PINE RD EPWORTH, IA 52045
ZACH LINDSEY 615 W 5TH AVE N ESTHERVILLE, IA 51334
FULL MOON FARMS
CODY MILLER 3294 210TH STREET THAYER, IA 50254
MERRITT MOSS 3172 320TH ST HULL, IA 51239
PEYTON MYERS 412 W 5TH ST SUMNER, IA 50674
BRADY ORTNER 6105 32ND AVE SHELLSBURG, IA 52332
NEVER GIVE UP LAND AND CATTLE CO. BROCK ORTNER 6105 32ND AVENUE SHELLSBURG, IA 52332
DAYTEN PILLE 1417 DURHAM AVE ST. ANTHONY, IA 50239
MORGAN SHUEY 215 200TH ST CORNING, IA 50841
WILLIAM STEIGER 23763 LITWILLER RD DELAVAN, IL 61734
BRYNLI INMAN PO BOX 222 TANEYVILLE, MO 65759
STOCKTON KELSEY PO BOX 7532 KIRKSVILLE, MO 63501
RIDGELY RED ANGUS
JOSHUA RIDGELY 5412 SHELBY 333 CLARENCE, MO 63437
BROOKE GIESE N3855 490TH ST. MENOMONIE, WI 54751
JOHN C SIME PO BOX 15 GORDON, WI 54838
International
DIAMOND T CATTLE CO. BRODY & JUSTINE GARDNER RR 2 SITE 16 BOX 5 OLDS, AB T4H 1P3
WARD COCKBURN P O BOX 33 BRIERCREST, SK SOH 0K0 //
Hwy 58 • Ten Mile, TN 37880
Steve Burnette – 865 804-8156 mercerfarms@gmail.com
Trinity Church Rd. • Gray Court, SC 29645 Raymond Prescott, Mgr. • (864) 981-2080 Visit our website at bullhillredangusranch.com
Red Angus since 1965!
Jane, Jim, Kathy, Tim, James Ray & Natalie (205) 466-7612 • Tim Cell (205) 446-5090 tim@whitleyredangus.com
Ken & Cheri Graves (307) 738-2247
2384 Barnum Rd. • Kaycee, WY 82639
Email: gravesredfork@rtconnect.net
Luke Larson: (406) 207-6776
Amie & Teri Angelo: (406) 207-4046 angelocattleco@blackfoot.net
Angelo Lane
PO Box 361 • Drummond, MT 59832
Raising Reg. & Comm. Red Angus Cattle Since 1990 Powderville, MT
406-554-3484 • 406-554-3152 • C: 406-853-0502
Tom: 406-951-2772 • Aaron: 406-853-2885 tlostendorf@rangeweb.net
Knebel Gallatin Gateway, MT • (406) 223-4964 www.harmonyhillredangus.com
1721 Plevna Rd. • Plevna, MT 59344 (406) 778-3819 • ketchum@midrivers.com Dave & Kay Klompien & Family 8129 Amsterdam Rd. Manhattan, MT 59741 (406) 581-4043 • (406) 581-2126 Email: klmpnra@gmail.com
AREA 1 - West
Alaska • California • Hawaii • Idaho • Nevada • Oregon Washington
George Murdock, Director • Keith Hickle, Region A Director
Western States Breeders are on page 116
Utah • Colorado • Wyoming – Aaron Kravig, Director
Cory & Katy Johnson 5822 CR 23 • Veteran, WY 82243
Cory 307-575-0169 • Katy 307-575-2677
Brian and Jamie Jo Axtell PO Box 21 – Anton, CO 80801 970.383.2332 or 970.554.1132 www.axtellcattlecompany.com Follow us on Facebook!
AREA 2 - Montana
Kay
“Cattle Working for You”
Sound Udders – Great Dispositions
Moderate Frames – Calving Ease – Excellent Growth www.kravigredangus.com h1: 719-446-5355 • h2: 719-446-5391
Karval, Colorado
Recently p chased Crump Red Angus H d
Bull Sale - Feb. 27, 2025 Lewiston, Idaho www.mccannredangus.com
Lori McCann • 208-743-5517
Minnesota • North Dakota • South Dakota
Craig Bieber, Region B Director Stephanie Jung, Director
12523 245th Ave Firesteel, SD 57633 (605) 850-9878 or (605) 865-3190 bhrredangus@lakotanetwork.com www.pedersonredangus.com
Robert and Kara • Robby 5096 Campbell Rd • McIntosh, SD 57641 701-422-3721 www.campbellredangus.com Producing Cattle That Perform For The Cattleman
Diamond C North Dakota
RED ANGUS
The Olsons
Annual Sale in March
Chase and Tiffany Furstenau Cavalier, ND 701-520-0671 chasefurstenau@gmail.com www.diamondcnd.com
Scott & Connie Kueffler
Michala & Kirsti • Bonnie Kueffler Box 187 • Grenora, ND 58845 701-694-3620 (h) • 701-641-0519 (c) redangus@nccray.com • www.dkredangus.net
Kansas
Kansas
info@hergredangus.com
Dan
Stavely, AB TOL 1Z0
Phone: (403) 549-2234
Fax (403) 549-2207
Email: office@angusworld.ca
Texas Red Angus Champion Genetics
313 FM 2488
Covington, TX 76636 (254) 874-5868 • (817) 774-7204 cell www.peacockredangus.com
Where Quality Cattle are the Rule, Not the Exception!
TANNER RED ANGUS
In the Flint Hills of Kansas
“Functional Cattle from the Heartland” 3627 NW 94th Rd Topeka, KS 66618 rtannerdvm@sbcglobal.net
Rick Tanner Family 785-640-2941
Bulls and heifers for sale by private treaty.
Leoti, KS • 620-874-1437 • fswedel@wbsnet.org WedelRedAngus.com • WedelBeefGenetics.com Annual Bull & Comm. Sale – 2nd Tues. of March
Simmental • SimAngus
Red Angus Private Treaty Bulls
Dustin Pelton 620-285-5465
Lynn Pelton 620-285-9934 Burdett, KS
2346B N Road • Strong City, KS 66869 Joe Mushrush (620) 340-7461 • Daniel Mushrush (620) 340-9774
Annual Sale Third Friday in March
Tim Flaming Ryan Flaming 620-382-4894 620-382-5107
REGISTERED RED ANGUS
465 170th • Hillsboro, KS 67063 620-367-8350 hm
HARMS PLAINVIEW RANCH
Mark and Kim Harms
2528 250th St. • Lincolnville, KS 66858 (620) 924-5544 • hprbulls@tctelco.net Red Angus - Angus - Charolais
“Your Partner in Progress” Bulls, Females and Embryos by Private Treaty
KEVIN & MARY ANN KNIEBEL
428 S. 2600 Road • White City, KS 66872 (785) 349-2821 • Fax (785) 349-2822 Email: kniebel@tctelco.net www.Kcattle.com
18 mo.& 2 yr. old Registered Bulls No feed ration, range tested, hard ‘n ready Commercial Bred Heifers in the fall
Rick Pflughoeft • Ellsworth, KS 785-472-3734 • 785-472-1033
“Red Angus since 1964” John & Dan Ramsdale 780 S.E. 130 Ave. • Murdock, KS 67111 (316) 542-3297 • (620) 532-6060
Reckoning, Douds, IA
15 Reds in the Green HIlls, Harris, MO 17 Flat Water Red Angus Gang, Broken Bow, NE
Holton Cattle Co., Cisco, TX
Weber Red Angus & Charolais, Lake Andes, SD
Steady Run Genetics, Hedrick, Iowa
18 Green Mountain Red Angus, Logan, MT
19 Klompien & CK Red Angus, Manhattan, MT
20 Jacobson Red Angus, Hitterdal, MN
20 Martin Red Angus, Glasgow, MT
20 Sandridge Land & Cattle, Perkins, OK
21 Mushrush Ranches, Strong City, KS
21 Schweitzer Red Angus, Pleasant Dale, NE
21 Laubach Red Angus Production Sale, Big Timber, MT
22 Fischer Red Angus, Harlowton, MT
22 Pacific Northwest Red Bull Rendezvous, Othello, WA
22 Rocking R Red Angus, Bayard, NE
22 SSS Red Angus, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
22 Wakefield Farms, Dunlap, IA
22 Wood V Bar X, Sandpoint, ID
23 Dahlke Red Angus, Bagley, MN
23 Wisconsin Red Fest, Bloomington, WI
25 L83 Ranch, Mandan, ND
26 Diamond H Red Angus, Victoria, KS
26 Westphal Red Angus, Grass Range, MT
27-30 JRA SPARK Youth Leadership Event, Desdemona, TX
27 Gibbs Red Angus, Glasgow, MT
27 Schuler Red Angus, Bridgeport, NE
29 Rogers & Lile Red Angus, Strafford, MO
30 D&D Cattle Co. Annual Bull Sale, Herman, NE
31 Axtell Cattle Co., Sterling, CO
31 McEntire Red Angus, Sweetwater, OK
31 Red Angus Photography Contest Deadline
31 Snowshoe Cattle Co., Arthur, NE
3K Land & Cattle Co. 127
4B Red Angus LLC 118
5L Red Angus 19, 89, 121
Aberdeen Angus World 124
ABS 45
Adams, Arnold & Alicia 118
Anderson Land & Cattle 68
Andras Stock Farm 13, 128
Angelo Cattle Co. 120
Anthony Red Angus 78
Axtell Cattle Co. 94, 122
Barenthsen-Bullinger Red Angus 122
Beckton Red Angus IFC, 1, 120
Beitia Livestock 116
Berwald Red Angus 24, 25, 26, 27
Bieber Red Angus 5
BIM Red Angus 123
Bola Red Angus 114, 127
Bow Creek Farm & Cattle 123
Bowles J5 Reds 121
Brickhouse Farms 127
Brylor Ranch 124
Buffalo Creek Red Angus 31
Bull Hill Ranch 119
Bullis Creek Ranch 126, 131
C & J Red Angus Ranch 119
C-Bar Ranch 97
C-T Red Angus 8, 9, 121
Calvo Family Red Angus 3
Campbell Red Angus 122
Cattle Visions 39
Cedar Hill Farm 123
Chappell Red Angus 123
Chiefline Red Angus 127
Choat Cattle Co. 131
Christensen Red Angus 121
Crockett Ranch 123
Cross Diamond Cattle Co. 131, IBC
Dahlke Red Angus 60, 61
Dahlke Red Angus 122
Daigger-Orr Red Angus 70, 71, 131
Darrel Holliday Ranch 116
Deichmann Livestock Brokerage 124
Diamond C North Dakota 122
Diamond H Ranch 58, 59, 125
Diamond P Cattle 119
DK Red Angus 122
Drees, Eric 124
Dry Creek Ranch 38
Dvorak Brothers Ranches 105
Emerald Earth 118
Explosive Cattle Co. 119
Feddes Red Angus 8, 9
Finger Lakes Cattle Co. 123
Fischer Red Angus 12, 120 Five
Hueftle Cattle Co.
Iron Lorenzen Cattle Co. 16,
Laubach Red Angus 120
Lautenschlager & Sons 36, 37, 116
Lazy J Bar Ranch 122
Leachman Cattle of Colorado 19
Leland Red Angus 7, 120
Livestock Digital 116
Loonan Stock Farm 124
Loosli Red Angus 75
Loosli Red Angus 116
Lost Creek Red Angus 121
Lowderman, Cody 124
Lowery, Matt 124
Lucht Red Angus 121
Ludvigson Stock Farms 19, 23, 29
Lundgren Angus 19
Maple Oaks Red Angus 127
MC Livestock 111
McCann Red Angus 116, 120, 122
McEntire Red Angus 73
McLean Red Angus 119
McMurphy Farms 123
McPhee Red Angus 116
Mercer Farms 119
Milk Creek Reds 55, 121
Minnesota Red Angus Assn. 122
Montana Red Angus Assn 104
Moose Creek Red Angus 18
Mushrush Red Angus 19, 57, 125
Namken Red Angus 122
ND Red Angus Assn. 113
Nelson Red Angus 116
Northern Ag Network 106
Northern Lites Ranch 102, 121
NY Red Angus Assn. 76
OHR Red Angus 122
Ory’s 07 Red Angus 127
Osborn Red Angus 119
Ostendorf Red Angus 120
Peacock Angus Ranch 42, 125
Pederson’s Broken Heart Ranch 122
Pelton’s Red Angus 125
Photo Contest 112
Pieper Red Angus 21, 131
Plain Jan’s 125
Red Reckoning 65
Redland Red Angus 120
Rocking Bar H Ranch 116
Rocking R Red Angus 30, 131
Kluesner
Kniebel Cattle Co.
Lacy’s Red Angus 127
Langdon’s Red Angus 123
Pleasant View Farms 123
Polivka Farms Red Angus 131
Private Treaty Sales 115
Quality Genetics Red Angus 127
Quartz Valley Red Angus 116
R.A. Brown Ranch 19, 49
Ramdsale Reds 125
Red Angus Society of Australia Inc. 124
Red Doc Farm 82
Red Fork Red Angus 120
Red Hill Farms 19, 119, BC
Red Angus Association of America
18335 E. 103rd Ave., Suite 202
Commerce City, CO 80022
Reaching over 10,000 Red Angus Buyers every issue!
12G – Dam of Lot 1
Her dam was born in 2012. Her granddam in 2004. Selecting cows with built-in longevity.
116 (2%)
Red Hill Farms is focused on improving the profitability of our customers’ operations.
• Collect ‘all the data, all the time’ to increase accuracy of EPDs and Indexes to aid in our breeding and selection program.
• Offer multiple breeds to optimize heterosis, the ‘last free lunch’ in the beef industry.
• Understand environmental and forage adaptability trumps every other selection factor.
• Place emphasis on ‘Convenience Traits’ including docility, calving ease, feet and udders.
• Extensive use of Economic Index selection to increase genetic progress for profitability.
• Leachman $Profit data.
• Bulls developed on high-roughage rations to improve longevity.
• Nationwide delivery options.
• 2017 Red Angus Breeder of the Year
• 2024 BIF Seedstock Producer of the Year