SIMBRAH World • Spring, 2021 PAGE 1
SMITH LIKE NEVER BEFORE 328G
Like Never Before represents generations of genetic predictability in SimGenetics. You will be hard pressed to find an individual that combines the power, performance and structural integrity, along with a tremendous set of EPDs (Top 15% API and 10% TI) in addition to his impeccable look as this bull does. He is a natural calf from our donor, Smith Isgrig Bella Notte, making him a third generation for the Bella Cow Family. He was the first son of Smith Practical to sell at public auction and breeders showed their evaluation of him strongly. At the recent Synergy, six programs paid $5,000 each to own a breeding interest in this young sire. Thank you to the following buyers of Never Before and we look forward to seeing his impact in these herds: 3JK-Scott & Janessa King Reavis Farms Hutto and Reeves 7N Ranch McCrary Farms 5MM-Cliff & Sandra Marshall
HE IS UNIQUE-LIKE NEVER BEFORE Tim Smith, Joel Isgrig & Haley Smith P.O. Box 330, Giddings, TX 78942 512-587-7896 • smithgenetics1@gmail.com
PAGE 2
Spring, 2021 • SIMBRAH World
4
Scheutze received Golden Book Award Fred Scheutze was honored by the American Simmental Association as a recipient of the coveted Golden Book Award. 9 Estrus Synchronization Recommendations for Bos indicus-Influenced Females Understanding different protocols and how Bos indicus females differ in a estrus synchronization program. 10 Capturing the Triple Crown Junior Simbrah exhibitor, Robert Stavinoha has now won the “Triple Crown”of the commercial steer feeding contests. We visist with Robert about his involvement in these industry based competitions. 18 Low Stress Success A look at nose flaps as an affordable, practical and low stress way to wean calves.
5 Simbrahs by the Number 6 News You Can Use 21 Four Ways to Create Purebred Simbrah 27 Save the Date 27 Index to Advertisers
Ellen Tom captured this Simbrah calf’s photo on Tom Brothers Ranch, Campbellton, Texas.
SIMBRAH World • Spring, 2021 PAGE 3
Schuetze received Golden Book Award The American Simmental Association (ASA) honored Texan Fred Schuetze with the Golden Book Award earlier this year. The award recognizes contributions to the development of the Simmental/Simbrah breeds. The Golden Book is given on behalf of the World Simmental Fleckvieh Federation (WSFF) and is the most prestigious award given by the ASA. Schuetze has been a beef industry leader at all levels – local, state, national and international. His presence and influence on SimGenetics have spanned multiple decades, as he traveled the globe introducing and promoting his favorite cattle breed. His hands-on approach and commitment to the industry identify him as a standout in the eyes of all who have crossed his
path. Among a rare few who have served a total of 13 years on the ASA Board (2000-2006 and 2015-2020), he has served as board chair, treasurer, publication board chair, Simbrah committee chair, foundation chair, and nominating committee chair, among many. Schuetze grew up in the Texas Hill Country on a family farm that produced beef cattle, sheep, goats and chickens. After graduating from Comfort High School, he received a B.S. degree from Southwest Texas State University and attended Texas A&M where he earned his Master’s degree. He then went to work for the Texas Agricultural Extension Service, serving for nearly a decade as a county agent. Between 1979 and 1990, he owned
Since 1983 we have been selecting Simbrah genetics that have the traits to be profitable-profitable for us and more importantly, our customers. Our long-term involvement is based on two things—the cattle work and we believe in the Simbrah breed. When you want Simbrahs— contact us. Cattle for sale year round at private treaty and we participate in select sales. Thank you to our Synergy buyers: 6G Ranch, Kannon Hill, Bar 5, Hensgens Bros., Oscar Vela, Stavinoha Family, Smith Genetics, Golden Star Ranch, Darrell Evans, Butler Family, and Bell Farms.
PAGE 4
Spring, 2021 • SIMBRAH World
and operated a consulting company where he designed breeding programs for operations throughout Mexico, Central America and the U.S. After working with Les Alberthal, whom he knew growing up in Comfort, they collaborated to develop the famed Buzzard Hollow Ranch at Granbury. They scoured the globe to find the best fullblood Simmental and Simbrah genetics, purchasing embryos and live cattle in Canada, Europe, South Africa
Mega Red, our senior herd sire and his progeny pictured.
(Continued on page 16)
Fred Schuetze
Simbrahs
By The Numbers
HOME TO QUALITY SIMMENTAL SIMBRAH AND BRAHMAN GENETICS
For the year 2020 1,788 head of Simbrahs were registered
BBC Hollywood-2020 National Champion Bull and 2020 International Reserve Grand Champion. Sired by BCC Maverick.
We have the herd sires that are delivering the progeny that can make a difference in your herd. We have bulls, heifers and show steers for sale. Call us to discuss.
148 Simbrah bulls were transferred 90 of the 148 went to non-members BCC Maverick-A son of ZKCC Chopper 844U. 2017 and 2018 National Champion Percentage Simbrah Bull.
Data according to American Simmental Association
J7N Cruzan C44-A son of LN LMC 12th Man Y238.
Roy Baring 210/867-6650 Ryan Baring 210/867-6653 roybaring@yahoo.com
Simbrah-Simmental Superbowl Sponsor SIMBRAH World • Fall, 2020 PAGE 5
Texas Simmental/Simbrah Association to host Southern Showcase The Texas Simmental/Simbrah Association (TSSA) is planning the Southern Showcase for April that would in essence replace the open events in San Antonio and Houston. “Our plan is to hold a wide range of events April 8-11 at the Washington County Fairgrounds in Brenham, Texas. We are hosting the TSSA Annual Meeting, junior and open shows and a sale,” said Casey Buzzard, TSSA president. Buzzard says that volunteers and sponsors are needed. For additional information and schedule, watch the TSSA website and Facebook page.
Sponsorships available for American Junior Simbrah Roundup Sponsorships for the annual Simbrah Roundup are available. Sponsoring the Roundup is a great way to show your support for are junior exhibitors. The Roundup draws junior Simbrah breeders from Texas, as well as other surrounding
states. For additional information on sponsorships, contact Tonya Hill, 956/566-0442 or email at brolacocattle@ yahoo.com. The American Junior Simbrah Roundup will be held in Wharton, Texas on June 22-25.
Simbrah promotional items available The American Simmental Association (ASA) has marketing materials for the Simbrah breed. There is a brochure, as well as signs promoting Simbrahs as the crossbreeding choice. To request copies of the brochure for distribution and have the sign at events in your area, contact the ASA at 406/587-4531.
For Simbrah news, go online For additional news, events and updated calendar listings, Simbrah breeders and enthusiasts are encouraged to visit www.simbrahworld.com. In addition to the news, all issues of the magazine and the annual Simbrah News Commercial Feature are archived on this site. Simbrah World is also very social. Check out our Facebook page for
B & M Cattle has a really simple mission, we want to produce the type of cattle that perform well in the pasture, yet still compete in the show ring. With an aggressive AI program, utilizing some top genetics of both the past and present like Ragin Cajun, Cowboy Crush, Pappadeaux and Have No Fear to name a few, as well females from top breeders. We strive to have calves that are functionally correct and sound along with eye appeal. Our herd sire, Smith Gaston, a son of RFI Real Deal, is loading his calves with power, mass and muscle. His calves are showing a lot of style and performance. GIVE US A CALL FOR YOUR SHOW CALF PROJECTS, HERD SIRES OR REPLACEMENT FEMALES. Brandon and Mary Hebert 7500 Harris Road • Bell City, LA 70630 337/370-8864 Brandonhebert60@gmail.com
PAGE 6
Spring, 2021 • SIMBRAH World
posts on a weekly basis. Several advertising opportunitie are available through Martha Hollida who can be contacted at hollidacompany@gmail.com or by calling 903/316-8465. Also, at the bottom of the Simbrah World home page on the website is a form that can be filled out to receive the magazine in the mail. Fill it out for your customers. There is no charge to receive the magazine.
New members elected to ASA Board Six newcomers have won election to the American Simmental Association Board of Trustees: Brandon Callis, Minco, Oklahoma; Tim Clark, Turtle Lake, North Dakota; Chad Cook, Walsh, Colorado; Victor Guerra, Linn, Texas; Chris Ivie, Summertown, Tennessee; and Doug Parke, Paris, Kentucky. Guerra and Callis will represent the southcentral region. In conjunction with his parents and siblings, Victor Guerra owns and operates La Muñeca Cattle Company. They run 100 Simmental and Simbrah cows, and market genetics in their LMC GenePlus Online Sales through Cattle in Motion, and several other sales. Support of youth is important to the Guerra family, annually sponsoring the Simbrah-Simmental Victor Guerra Superbowl, which they co-founded, and conducting their own field day and futurity for 32 years. They also hold an annual online sale around Thanksgiving in which all proceeds go to various worthy causes, including
breed youth events. He is a strong advocate of Simmental and Simbrah genetics, participating in numerous activities including annual performance bull gain tests in Texas. He currently serves the Hidalgo County Farm Bureau as chairman of the scholarship committee. Guerra also serves the Texas FFA Foundation Board of Directors and the Lone Star National Bank Advisory Board. Yearly, the Guerra family hosts a community fundraiser, where 600 people attend to raise money for the community. Guerra holds a J.D. from Saint Mary’s School of law. Brandon Callis, with his wife, Kelly, and their children, own and operate BKC Livestock, a SimGenetic based herd. Callis markets a handful of bulls to area commercial customers, while focusing on raising cattle that his children and other juniors can exhibit across the nation. Cattle are sold by private-treaty and a recently added online marketing Brandon Callis forum. He has been involved with a number of American Junior Simmental National Classics and a variety of other youth events. He is a member of the Oklahoma Cattlemen’s Association. Callis graduated from Texas A&M in 2005 and was a member of their 2004 National Champion Livestock Judging Team. He also an advanced degree in animal breeding and genetics from Kansas State. Callis has judged cattle in 30 states, Canada and the International Simmental Show in Sao Paulo, Brazil. (Continued on page 17)
SIMBRAH World • Spring, 2021 PAGE 7
PAGE 8
Spring, 2021 • SIMBRAH World
Estrus Synchronization Recommendations for Bos indicus-Influenced Females By Jordan Thomas, Ph.D., University of Missouri-Columbia assistant professor – state beef reproduction specialist and Carson Anderson, University of Missouri-Columbia graduate research assistant Introduction Bos indicus cattle are well-adapted to tropical and subtropical conditions. In comparison with cattle from Bos taurus breeds, they exhibit a high tolerance to parasites, solar exposure, high ambient temperature and relative humidity, and even low-quality forage diets. Due in part to these desirable traits, Bos indicus genetics are often incorporated into crossbreeding programs to capitalize on heterosis. Well over half of the world’s cattle inventory is managed in subtropical or tropical environments where Bos indicus breed composition is particularly advantageous. Moreover, 25% of the United States’ cow herd is located in southern states that lie in areas of high thermal stress. Challenges with Estrus Synchronization in Bos indicus-Influenced Females When choosing an estrus synchronization program for your operation, is important to acknowledge that Bos indicus
females differ meaningfully from Bos taurus in several aspects of reproductive physiology. Due to this, it is widely accepted that the protocols regarded as “industry standard” in Bos taurus cows simply yield poor results in Bos indicusinfluenced cows or heifers. Bos indicus-influenced females have a lower rate of ovulatory response to administration of GnRH. Due to this, effectively synchronizing the estrous cycle of Bos indicusinfluenced females presents a bit of a challenge, as many estrus synchronization protocols rely on GnRH at the start of the protocol. Ovulatory response to GnRH depends on follicular maturity at the time of GnRH administration, as well as circulating concentrations of progesterone. High circulating concentrations of progesterone decrease LH pulsatility, limiting follicular development. Recently, a number of publications have suggested that circulating progesterone concentrations need to be taken into greater consideration when designing protocols for Bos indicus-influenced females, as progesterone is a key indirect regulator of ovarian follicular development. Prior studies have indicated that GnRH response in synchronization protocol is significantly lower in cows having high circulating progesterone concentrations (Continued on page 13)
SIMBRAH World • Spring, 2021 PAGE 9
Robert Stavinoha was awarded this truck for his win at the 2019 Houston Livestock Show Commercial Steer Feeding Contest. Photo credit JRP Photography.
Capturing The Triple Crown By Kendra Elder
The final leg of the “triple crown” win for Robert Stavinoha came at the 2021 San Antonio Livestock Show. He is pictured in the speech and live grading portion of the contest.
Seventeen-year-old senior Robert Stavinoha is no stranger to the cattle industry. In fact, he grew up on his family’s registered Simbrah cattle operation. He began showing heifers when he was eight years-old and quickly was competing on a state and national level. Those arenas led him to become actively involved in the commercial steer contests across the state of Texas. Robert has now won what many would call the ‘triple crown’ in the commercial steer world, as through his hard work and preparation, he has won all three major commercial steer contests at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, San Antonio Livestock Exposition, and the Texas Cattle Feeders Association (TCFA) Junior Fed Beef Challenge in Amarillo, Texas. “When I was in the 8th grade I competed in the Houston PAGE 10
Spring, 2021 • SIMBRAH World
Commercial Steer contest for the first time. The contest helps you gain an overall understanding and knowledge of the beef industry from an economic standpoint to feeding cattle properly,” he described. Robert explains the steer selection process, which ultimately goes back to the basics of livestock judging. “Like most feed yard owners, you are not always going to be able to purchase the best-looking cattle,” Robert said, adding, “Going by breed types, EPDs, high marbling and quality grades are attributing factors to proper selection. The number of steers varies for each contest: San Antonio (two), Houston (three), TCFA (four). Robert said he first picks the steers when they are eight to ten months old. “Roughly, the steers weigh around 600-700 pounds when they are
Robert Stavinoha received a $5,000 scholarship as part of the awards for the Texas Cattle Feeders Association Commercial Steer Feeding Contest grand win.
younger and are kept on feed for 140-160 days. When I compete, the steers are finished to around 1250-1350 pounds at the age of 18-20 months.” Throughout the year, he keeps a record book on the steers denoting all types of information from start to finish covering the feed and vet invoices/interest expense, steer expenses/performance numbers which include cost of gain, average daily gain, and feed conversion. “Each contest has its differences but overall they have one thing in common: lots of preparation and time commitment. The first thing I do is begin studying a 400-page book, which helps prepare you for the test.” The contests all have a college level quiz that covers marketing terms in the industry, grading, management and all other aspects of commercial steer feeding. Prepared speaking is another component of the contest and the topic of the speech changes. “While giving the speech, the cattle stand behind you and ultimately the topic of the speech can be over anything in the beef industry’s spectrum. The Houston and TCFA Commercial Steer Contests both include interview portions testing your knowledge of the industry and how well you know your steers,“ Robert emphasized.
A lot of studying is involved for competitors in commercial steer feeding contests. This photo was taken in 2017 as he studied with others for the Houston contest.
Robert explained that the Houston contest also includes a meat science and meat identification quiz, where contestants are asked to identify meat cuts and meat grades. There is also a final interview portion that is very demanding and requires knowledge across the beef industry. “After qualifying for the final interview, the nerves set in. Usually there is a panel of five or six judges, representing the many different areas of the industry and this is intense,” he said. (Continued on page 12)
SIMBRAH World • Spring, 2021 PAGE 11
Triple Crown... (Continued from page 11)
While spending time preparing for commercial steer contests, Robert has also found a passion for the Texas Junior Simmental/Simbrah Association (TJSSA). “I learned about all of the different opportunities that this association offered when I began showing,” Robert explained. “I participated in public speaking, showmanship, skillathon, and everything else there is to compete in at a very young age and never looked back.” He currently has served as a TJSSA Director for the past three years, two of those being as the President of the Junior Board. Various leadership positions have allowed Robert to give back to organizations like Texas 4-H, Texas FFA and his local National Honor Society (NHS) and student council chapters. “I am currently the Area 11 FFA First Vice President, and my high school’s Student Council/ National Honor Society President. I am also serving as a Texas 4-H Livestock Ambassador and have been for the past three years,” he added. These experiences have developed his future career plans, as he plans to either attend the United States Air Force Academy or Texas A&M University majoring in engineering or biomedical sciences. “My end goal is not yet decided, but I would like to become either an orthopedic surgeon or an aerospace engineer,” he stated. With the career fields Robert has chosen, he hopes to still have a helping hand in making a difference in the agricultural
industry. “In these fields, you get to see all kinds of people come to your office every day, giving you exposure to people from all over the world. From the outside looking in, it is an extremely high vantage point to market the agriculture and beef product/industry.” Robert explained. He said with his knowledge in the agriculture industry allows him to inform and properly influence those who are on the fence about agriculture. “By 2050 we will need 70% more food to feed the growing population. Agriculture is a necessity, but it is our job, as agriculturists, to market the product by interacting with consumers and serving as a marketer.” Robert is an ideal role model for anyone looking to succeed but in reality, he is a loving friend, brother, mentor and leader who appreciates the friendships he has made along the way. “The beef industry is a family- the thing I love most about these contests is how everyone becomes very close friends. The agriculture industry is always willing to help and serve, he concluded. Robert is the son of Leroy and Tina Stavinoha and he followed in his sister’s (Amelia) footsteps of competing in the steer feeding contests. The family lives in Eagle Lake, Texas and is part of the family’s Simbrah operation, 6G Simbrah, started by Tina’s parents and longtime Simbrah breeders and promoters, Fred and Sharon Grahmann. ***
This is our Smith DRFF Established son, Smith A.R.C. Chosen One 032G. His dam is Smith Paul Smiling Times. She is sired by Inspired and goes back to the great She Moves Cow Family. In addition, she was a many time champion for Cody Labry, including 2019 National and International Grand Champion Female and 2019 Superbowl Reserve Grand Champion. Chosen One is a homozygous polled purebred and solid red in color. His EPD rankings have him in the top 15% for API and TI, with a top 10% ranking for calving ease. He is very balanced, correct, smooth shouldered with ample muscle and in our opinion a very complete bull.
We invite your evaluation of him and consideration for your herd. WE ARE SELLING CHOSEN ONE SEMEN- 30 UNITS FOR $1,000 CALL MARK FOR MORE DETAILS AND TO PLACE YOUR ORDER
Mark Melson
P.O. Box 1085 Caldwell, Texas 77836
979/777-0771
melsonsimbrah@gmail.com
www.melsonsimbrah.com PAGE 12
Spring, 2021 • SIMBRAH World
Recommendations... (Continued from page 9)
compared to cows with low, and Bos indicus appear to be more sensitive to these effects of progesterone than are Bos taurus. Detecting estrus among Bos indicus-influenced females may also be a challenge. Several studies have observed a shorter period of standing estrus among Bos indicus-influenced females, with a high incidence of standing estrus occurring in late evening or at night. As a result, AI programs that rely on accurate estrus detection may be less efficient among Bos indicus-influenced females. Considerations for Bos indicus-Influenced Cows While some effective estrus synchronization protocols have been developed for Bos indicus cattle, the majority of
the research in this area has come out of South America, Australia, and other areas outside of the United States. In these countries, protocols often rely heavily on use of estradiol products, such as estradiol benzoate and estradiol cypionate. Currently, estradiol products have not been approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration’s Center for Veterinary Medicine for use in estrus synchronization. Currently, only one protocol for Bos indicus-influenced cows is widely publicized: the Bos indicus PG 5-day CIDR, also referred to as “Bee Synch II.” This protocol is simply an adapted version of the 5-d CO-Synch + CIDR protocol used in Bos taurus cows, with two modifications: (1) PG is administered at the start of the protocol to induce luteolysis among the majority of cyclic cows and thereby reduce circulating progesterone concentrations during treatment, and (2) GnRH is not administered at the start of the protocol for control of follicular development, based on findings of poor ovulatory response to GnRH. The Bos indicus PG 5-day CIDR protocol has been found to be reasonably effective among Bos indicus-influenced females. Considerations for Bos indicus-Influenced Heifers Use of progestins in estrus synchronization protocols can effectively induce puberty early in the treatment schedule among a large proportion of peripubertal heifers. This is particularly beneficial among Bos indicus-influenced heifers due to the fact that Bos indicus-influenced heifers reach puberty at later ages than Bos taurus heifers. Due to this, a larger proportion of the heifer group may not be cycling at the beginning of the protocol. Use of a long-term progestinbased protocol may help induce cyclicity among a proportion of these heifers. Extensive evaluations of Melengesterol Acetate (MGA) and controlled internal drug release (CIDR) protocols in Bos indicus-influenced heifers suggest an opportunity for effective use of these approaches, with results similar to field results obtained among Bos taurus heifers when accounting for pubertal status. Last Considerations Although Bos indicus-influenced cattle differ from Bos taurus cattle, commercial expectations for the breeding pro-
gram should not be lowered. Consider use of a short breeding season or market females that conceive late in the breeding season. Maintaining later-conceiving females extends the length of the calving season, results in fewer pounds of calf weaned, and results in poorer reproductive performance in the next year’s breeding season.
Setting Females Up for Success: Estrus Synchronization By Carson Anderson, University of Missouri graduate research assistant Estrus synchronization is a reproductive technology that can add value to your program. Using this technology can control and shorten the breeding and the subsequent calving season, increase uniformity of the calf crop, and provide an effective way to use artificial insemination. How much value you can generate from using estrus synchronization will vary from operation to operation although, it can’t be emphasized enough: estrus synchronization will not make up for females in poor body condition, poor management, or poor health. Instead, think of estrus synchronization as an added boost rather than as a crutch or as a cover up for other management problems. Heifers and cows will require different management strategies to be successful in an estrus synchronization program. Let’s start with heifers. Bos indicus-influenced heifers should be developed to 65% of their mature cow weight at the time of breeding. This will help ensure that a large percentage of heifers will become pubertal by the start of the breeding season. However, keep in mind that developing to target weight isn’t going to guarantee heifers will be pubertal at the time of breeding. Consider having a veterinarian perform an evaluation of the reproductive tract four to six weeks prior to breeding to identify poor candidates for estrus synchronization. When managing cows for success in an estrus synchronization program, we are mainly thinking about their body condition, plane of nutrition, and how long it has been since calving. Cows should be managed so that they are at a body condition score of 5 or greater at the time of breeding and need to be gaining rather than losing weight. A positive plane of nutrition is critical for get(Continued on page 16)
SIMBRAH World • Spring, 2021 PAGE 13
PAGE 14
Spring, 2021 • SIMBRAH World
SIMBRAH World • Spring, 2021 PAGE 15
Success... (Continued from page 13)
ting cows to resume normal estrous cycles after calving. Remember, it is common that cows are near peak lactation and will have increased nutritional requirements around the time of breeding. If you are calving during a time of year in which you can’t meet her nutritional requirements just off of the current forage base, supplementation will be necessary for maximum fertility. Meeting nutritional requirements is even more critical for younger cows that are still growing themselves while also nursing their calves. It takes time to resume normal estrous cycles, and cows are more likely to be cycling at the start of the synchronization program when they have had more time after calving. In general, we want to see cows averaging at least 45 days postpartum by the time of breeding. If you are using CIDRs in your estrus synchronization program, cows should be at least 21 days after calving at the time of CIDR insertion. Cows with shorter days postpartum are not as likely to breed to artificial insemination compared with cows with increased days postpartum, but it is usually still worth trying to get them jump-started with synchronization. Herd health is an important factor that can strongly influence a female’s ability to perform during breeding season. Heavy parasitization and other disease challenges can dramatically impact reproductive perform-
PAGE 16
Spring, 2021 • SIMBRAH World
ance. Consult with your veterinarian for the best health protocol for your operation. In general, prebreeding booster vaccinations should be administered at least 30 days prior to breeding. Estrus synchronization is an investment that can increase productivity in your herd and profitability in your business. However, in order to capture the value of what estrus synchronization can bring to your operation, it is important to set your females up for success. ***
Schuetze... (Continued from page 4)
and in the U.S. He’s been a long-time member of the Texas Simmental/ Simbrah Association including a term as president, and a founding father of the American Simmental Fleckvieh Federation, serving as president for 15 consecutive years. After being appointed to serve as ASA’s official representative to the biannual World WSFF Congress, he traveled the world-over attending Congresses in South Africa, Brazil, Ireland, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, Germany, Colombia and Poland. In 2020, he completed a four-year obligation as WSFF President. Presently the managing partner of SOT Simmentals, Schuetze and his wife, Judy, are the parents of two children: Fred, Jr. (“Bud”) and JoAnna Keel, and have three grandchildren.
News...
New arrivals to Simbrah (Continued from page 7)
Lorelai Hill named royalty in Rio Grande Valley For the past 85 years, Texas Citrus Fiesta has taken pride in providing unforgettable experiences and memories by promoting values of education, leadership and community. This year junior Simbrah exhibitor, Lorelai Hill represents the town of McCook as the Duchess of Grain Sorghum. She represents not only the town of McCook, but the Texas Citrus Fiesta as the Duchess of Grain Lorelai Hill with her dad, Benjamin at Sorghum. The roles pro- the Royal Coronation. vide a large platform for sharing her knowledge and passion for the agricultural industry. This year at the 84th Royal Coronation, she was also named Princess of Orange Blossom and will be advocating for the Texas Citrus industry!
Scott and Kay Willey, Muldoon, Texas, announce the birth of their first child, a daughter, Caroline Marie Willey. She was born October 16, 2020 weighing 7 pounds and 7 ounces and measuring 21.5 inches long. Willey came through the junior ranks and has served as an advisor to the Texas Junior Simmental/Simbrah Association. Proud grandparents are Greg and Ruth Willey.
Caroline Marie Willey
Jordan and Kristine Willey, La Vernia, Texas welcomed Kadee Mae Willey on October 22, 2020. She weighed 6 pounds and 15 ounces, while measuring 19.25 inches. Proud grandparents are, Keith and DeeAnn Willey. Kadee Mae Willey
For all the Simbrah News, visit www.simbrahworld.com or follow Simbrah World on Facebook!
We have herd sires and replacement females for sale We are weaning a great set of heifers calves very soon and we think you will find these impressive. We have a number of bulls--black and red for sale. CALL US--WE CAN BE YOUR SOURCE FOR SIMBRAH Thank you to our Synergy buyers: Strack Farms, Braden Stork, La Familia Ranch, and Tortorici. Also thanks to many time repeat customer Mauricio Garcia for his recent purchase of bred heifers and pairs. Congratulations to New Breeder, Rafael Chacon on his volume purchase of fancy replacement heifers and congratulations to the Raul Turrubiates Family on their selection of show steers
Jud & Margie Flowers 12111 North Bryan Road • Mission, Texas 78541 • 956/207-2087 • judf@lonestarcitrus.com FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK
SIMBRAH World • Spring, 2021 PAGE 17
Low Stress Success By Lindsay L. Allen Weaning time is often dreaded by everyone involved—the cow, the calf, and the producer because of the stress on the cattle, weight loss and possible sickness in calf and the noise. Plus, there’s the added labor involved when they somehow navigate a fence to get back together. The dread doesn’t have to exist anymore. Low stress weaning offers ways PAGE 18
Spring, 2021 • SIMBRAH World
to reduce all the above “side effects.” But wait…there is more! Just like an infomercial that keeps offering good news, so does low stress weaning, as at times, the calf may even gain weight during the process, verses losing it. One way to approach low stress weaning is with a nose flap (also called nose weaners). Wyman Poe, beef cattle consultant, was working with a ranch
in north Texas that weans roughly 300 head each year. “I went up to the ranch on weaning day and helped, then returned about 10 days later to find that the calves had lost 70-80 pounds.” he recalled, “The calves didn’t know how to eat creep and they were just bawling for their mothers. It was a disaster and we were faced with having to put the weight back on the calves that we had already paid for.” After researching nose flaps, watching YouTube videos and talking to a producer in New Mexico who uses them, Poe decided to pursue them four years ago and has zero regrets. “We put creep feed in the pasture two weeks prior to weaning, so that the calves can get used to the sight and smell. Then the week of weaning, we bring the calves in and give them their shots and insert the nose flaps and turn them back out with their mothers for a week,” Poe stated, “The next morning, we will find calves lying next to their mothers, but not nursing. The flaps I use have spikes on the end of them that cause just enough discomfort to the mother that she will kick at the calf if it tries to nurse.” A nose flap allows cow and calf to remain together in a familiar environment, while grazing and gaining weight, versus a high stress situation that can reduce body condition and increase sickness. Dr. Guillermo Scaglia, ruminant nutrition and forage systems professor at Louisiana State University AgCenter said, “This method allows for reducing stress at weaning, especially for the calf. Weaning is a very stressful time for the calf since it is separated from the dam and usually placed in a different environment, and many times transported to this new place. Nose flaps allow for a gradual weaning since it does not let the calf get milk from the dam. This has an effect of easing the separation between calf and mother. Reducing stress will reduce the impact of weaning stress on the immune system of the calf.” The approximate $2 reusable nose flaps aren’t magic, but the data is in their favor. Poe said that every great once in a while you will have the one calf that knows how to cock its head just right so that the spikes do not agitate the mother, but even then, the calf can’t
suck for long because of the nose flap. He also recalled the highly unlikely probability of the nose flaps falling out. “Our first year we inserted 115 nose flaps and only one fell out,” Poe pointed out. The success of nose flaps and the low stress they provide keeps Poe going back to them each year. “We leave them in for one week and then remove the nose flaps and separate the cow and calf. It is so quiet around the property, as no calves or mothers are bawling or pacing the fence line.” Poe continued, “At this point the calves are gaining weight, not losing like we had experienced before using the nose flaps.” Dr. Scaglia’s experience with nose flaps aligns with Poe’s, as he also found nose flaps to be a “cheap and easily applicable technique to reduce stress and help calves keep eating and cows grazing after complete separation. They don’t spend time bawling or pacing in the pen or walking by the fence.” If nose flaps are the low stress weaning method your operation chooses, Poe says inserting them requires no more than five seconds. Dr. Scaglia echoed this by adding that depending on the type of nose flap, you can flex them a little or open them and place them directly on the nostrils of the calf, “They are easy to apply and will stay in place until you take them out and will very rarely fall out or break. When you do take them out, wash them thoroughly and hold them back to be reused the next calving season,” he continued, “The only extra work that is associated with nose flaps is the need to run calves through the chute, restrain them and install the nose flap, but that is all it takes.” Poe also said the low stress weaning method reduces the likelihood of sickness, as he used to have pens full of calves with high stress and pneumonia following weaning and now has one or two a season. Another method for low stress weaning includes fenceline weaning. In this scenario, the cow and calf are allowed contact for several days along the you guessed it fence line. The main recommendation in fence-line weaning is to keep the animals on forage versus a dry lot. Dust in dry lots can increase the likelihood of illness and allowing cows and calves to graze in a familiar environment will help maintaining body condition scores. Additionally, producers should
ensure the fence is in good condition in order to prevent that one calf who will try to get out from actually doing it. With fence-line weaning, the cow and calf can reunite along the fence when the trauma of separation arises and be quickly calmed by an interaction along the fence before returning to graze. Weaning can come with several added stress factors (castration, dehorning, vaccinations, new environmental factors), which only enhance the critical need to keep stress low in this season of the calf’s life. Sudden separation and dry lots provide no added benefits to producers outside of ease, but are coupled with higher probabilities of runaway calves and sickness, so the “ease” is cancelled out a few days or weeks down the road when animals have to be rounded up and re-separated or doctored. While nose flaps may seem like a costly investment the first year, their reusability makes them worth it. Fence-line weaning may require a temporary fence to be built, but keeps stress low over the long haul. As you approach the weaning season, consider the options that allow for happy cow, calf and producer when it is all said and done.
Samuel M. Hodges Associate
903/701-7929 (cell)
shodges@fordbergner.com www.fordbergner.com 713/260-3926 (office)
“Call or text today to schedule a free consultation with Sam to discuss your LLC and Business Entity Formation and Operation, Estate Planning, or Probate legal needs.”
DALLAS
HOUSTON
AUSTIN
SIMBRAH World • Spring, 2021 PAGE 19
We Can Put You In The
! ! ! t h g i l t Spo
Temperance Livestock is a family operation and we entered the industry through the junior show ranks. We have built our herd on proven genetics and past show ring winners. In addition, a purchase from us comes with service long after the sale. If you are looking for a show heifer—look to Temperance.
Cade Nelson won the Grand Champion Percentage Simbrah honor at the Synergy Showcase with his WHF Devil’s Cut daughter
CONGRATULATIONS TO CADE NELSON AND KENDALL COMPTON FOR THEIR RECENT WINS WITH TEMPERANCE PURCHASES.
Thank you to Mallory Demmer, Danielle Nelson, Emily Burch and MacKenzie Groce for purchasing Temperance cattle in the Synergy Sale. We appreciate your interest in our cattle. Kendall Compton was the Cowgirls in Cowtown Reserve Grand Champion with her Smith Just Because daughter.
Home to the Champions- 3JP Who Dat and 3JP Say Hey Kid—2 Full brothers who have hung a number of banners and earned champion titles. These champions were bred by our family at our purebred and percentage Simbrah operation in East Texas. They are both sired by LN LMC 12th Man Y238 and out of H-3 Sweet Thang Rocking.
3JP Who Dat
3JP Say Hey Kid
Homozygous polled 2018 State Fair of Texas Grand Champion Bull 2019 International Grand Champion Bull 2019 AJSR Champion Simbrah Bull
Polled/Scurred 2019 Bayou Classic Supreme Bull 2019 Reserve Calf Champion 2020 AJSR Champion Simbrah Bull
H-3 Sweet Thang Rocking Dam to both 3JP Who Dat and 3JP Say Hey Kid 2018 TJSSA Reserve Champion Cow/Calf Pair 2018 State Fair of Texas Senior Division Champion
SEMEN AVAILABLE ON 3JP WHO DAT AND LMC TROOPER, A HOC BROKER X PIONEER WOMAN SON. CONTACT US TODAY FOR DETAILS.
POOL FARMS
Josh, Heather, Jarrett and Jess Pool • Henderson, Texas Josh 903/646-3123 • Heather 903/557-0877 • Pool_heather@hotmail.com PAGE 20
Spring, 2021 • SIMBRAH World
Four Ways To Create Purebred Simbrah
Source: American Simmental Association website Registered Sire
Registered Dam
Comment
Purebred Simmental
1/4 Simmental x 3/4 Brahman (foundation Brahman)
Most heterosis overall; increased weaning weight without increased birth weights.
1/4 Simmental x 3/4 Brahman Purebred Simmental High level of heterosis in calf; highest (foundation Brahman)
Purebred Simmental
High level of heterosis in calf; highest expected weaning weights, but also a potential for increased birth weights.
3/4 Simmental x 1/4 Brahman
1/2 Simmental x 1/2 Brahman
Moderate level of heterosis in calf and high degree of maternal heterosis; weaning weight potential similar to option two but with less expected increase in birth weight.
1/2 Simmental x 1/2 Brahman
3/4 Simmental x 1/4 Brahman
Moderate calf and maternal heterosis; weaning weight potential somewhat less than other options.
We’ve added the power of the...
Gracie Family
We have selected two daughters, 311H and 331H, stemming from the great Gracie Cow Family to be used in our Simmental and Simbrah programs. We purchased these two structurally correct, big ribbed, loaded with dimension and elegance from Smith Genetics in the Synergy Sale.
CMFM Gracie Babe Y854-Matriarch of the Gracie Cow Family, granddam to 311H and 331H
Smith Gracie So Sharp N Black 311H
Smith Gracie So Sharp N Black 311H and Smith Gracie Cool Vibe N Red 331H are W/C Executive Order daughters. Both are out of CMFM Gracie 107B, a Steel Force daughter from the matriarch of the family, WLE Gracie Babe Y854 and sired by W/C Executive Order. Gracie Y854 was a many time champion in the Circle M program and she produced numerous daughters that excelled in the show ring. We are confident in the genetics backing 311H and 331H and feel they are loaded with potential and promise for SimGenetics!
CMFM Gracie 107B-Dam of our heifers, 311H and 331H
BAR
CB CATTLE
Hempstead, Texas Michael and Susan Roehling and Levi, Calley and Braden 979/221-7289 (Michael) • 979/221-4526 (Susan) 979/221-4734 (Calley McGinley) barcbcattle@gmail.com
Smith Gracie Cool Vibe N Red 331H
SIMBRAH World • Spring, 2021 PAGE 21
TAYLOR SIMBRAH JASON TAYLOR
Breeding High Quality Simbrah Cattle jctaylor9619@gmail.com 281/830-2222
KATHY HUTTO & JEFFREY REED 9660 FM 713 Dale, Texas 78616
Breeding Quality Simbrah
512/507-5718 Embryos for sale sired by Charismatic
Simmental and Simbrah
Featuring Sargeant daughters
For cattle information contact Tim Smith, 512/587-7896
Robertson Farms
Blayre Meligan & Nancy Maywald P.O. Box 398 Llano, TX 78643 325/248-5282 country07girl@hotmail.com 832/407-0871 njmredd@hotmail.com
Ryan Robertson
14846 South Hwy 183 Luling, TX 78648 512-217-6205 • rtfarms@gmail.com
SHALLOW WATER RANCH Your Leading Source for Black Simbrah Cattle - Since 1993
REGISTERED BLACK SIMBRAH BULLS FOR SALE
Bobby & Jeanne Thornhill 21501 CR 496 Rising Star, TX 76471
SWR Black Chief Homozygous black, purebred Simbrah.
Ranch 254-643-6715 Cell 325-647-4030
SIMBRAH World • Spring, 2021 PAGE 22
STARTING WITH THE BEST BURESH CATTLE Bob Buresh
We have the influence of Priceless in our young program.
For information contact our consultant, Tim Smith, 512/587-7896
Grinstead
6899 Rossignol Road Bell City,LA 70630 Doug Schultz • 337.540.8901 Craig Schultz • 337.802.2173 Email:lazysfranch@live.com
Floyd Goodwin PUREBRED SIMBRAH CATTLE
Dan & Kris Grinstead Iowa City, Iowa
Smith Bella Kris 08A-A daughter of Smith Matt N Black and Smith Bella Bella.
Contact Tim Smith, Consultant 512/587-7896 - smithgenetics1@gmail.com
Utilizing the genetics of Smith Bella Bella
Ronnie Reeves
Jeff and Erin Glueck
9660 FM 713 Dale, Texas 78616
4079 Cat Spring Road Cat Spring, Texas 78933 979/733-4544
512/507-5719 rrtranspo@yahoo.com BAR P BAR CATTLE COMPANY
-P-
KYLE AND HEIDI POPPE 1632 CR 230 WEIMAR, TEXAS 78962 979/561-6597 KYLE 512/627-2131 HEIDI EMAIL: HHOSKINS@HOTMAIL.COM
Anthony Lopez
5MM Ranch Giddings, Texas Purebred/Percentage Simbrah Cliff & Sandra Marshall 512/799-4471 cliff.marshall@gmail.com
Floyd Goodwin PUREBRED SIMBRAH CATTLE
Cattle located in Houston area
281/414-6187 Incorporating genetics like this Smith Just Because x Smith Makin Moves daughter PAGE 23
anthonyphiliplopez@gmail.com
Spring, 2021 • SIMBRAH World
Cattle located in Caldwell, Texas 512/659-0218 Consultant: Mark Nelson 979/777-0771
Utilizing the genetics of Smith Bella Bella
Cattle located in Caldwell, Texas 512/659-0218 Consultant: Mark Nelson 979/777-0771
American Junior Simbrah Roundup June 22 thru June 25, 2021 Wharton County Fairgrounds Crescent, Texas
www.simbrahroundup.com
We are thrilled with our decision to become involved with the Simbrah breed. We have established the vision of our program with these design elements: predictability, proven and recognized genetics, function and sound individuals with performance and style. Our recent purchases (pictured here) fit our design.
For all the details, forms, deadlines www.simbrahroundup.com
Smith Topanga Liv 158B-We have added embryos from this member of the Topanga/Debutante Cow Family and Smith Practical. Liv is a sleek fronted, smooth made female with lots of elegance and she has a history of producing cattle in high demand. These embryos are full sibs to a heifer that sold for $15,000. This cow family line is known for show ring winners, as it includes Sweet Deb, a two time National Champion and Smith RFI Go-To, the 2018 International Reserve Grand Champion Bull, plus many other breed leading females and bulls.
Smith Dreamer 952G-We have added this powerfully made female and she will definitely be one we will build a foundation from. She represents the Dream Girl family as she is out of Smith 7N Nice Dreams, a daughter of Satisfies and Hagan Dream Girl 52S. Her sire is RFI Real Deal, a ASA National and National Grand Champion Bull. She ranks in the top 15% for API and TI, plus she is sound and has lots of body.
We would love to visit with you about our program’s vision and design.
3JK Cattle Co. Scott and Janessa King and Family Zephyr, Texas • 325-200-8740
Smith Foster Stacy Madam 875G-This is a young purebred daughter of Smith Just Because and Smith Madam B. Talk about a pedigree -- if you look into hers you will find, Smith Just a Diva, Satisfies, Stout, Madam X, Dream On, and LMC Miss Diva. 875G fits our program to a T -- as she is long, extended, sound and functional. We are excited to have her in our herd.
SIMBRAH World • Spring, 2021 PAGE 24
We are committed to the SimGenetics and are committed to producing lines of cattle that are backed by some of the top sire power. We are breeding Simbrahs, percentage Simbrahs, Brahmans and have also started producing some SimAngus calves.
Smith Like Never Before 328G We just added this young sire to our program. He represents generations of genetic predictability as his sire is Smith Practical, a percentage son of WHF Devil’s Cut and he is out of,Smith Isgrig Bella Notte, making him a third generation of the Bella family. We are excited about the potential and promise he offers.
Smith 7N Influential 852F The 2020 National Reserve Grand Champion Bull. Sired by an international champion, Smith CRC Lubbock and out of Hagan Dream Girl 52S, who is a daughter of the many time “50” Cow. He ranks in the top 1% for API and 2% for TI in the breed. Owned with Smith Genetics
RS Pay It Forward We just added this homozygous black, purebred Simmental to our herd. He’s from the Rincker program and is sired by the Denver Champion, LLSF Pays to Believe ZU194. He is in the top 25% of the Simmental breed for TI. He will be used to produce Simmies and Simbrahs.
Mr. 4F Accelerator A homozygous polled Brahman. His sire is Mr. V8 279/7 (P), his grand sire is +JDH Mr. Elmo Manso. Accelerator’s dam is a granddaughter of the 2005 International Champion Mr. V8 845/5 “The Rock”. Owned with Luis Flores Family. His calves are phenomenal and we are using him for Brahmans and Simbrahs. Call Pete for details on semen and his calves.
Come see us and see what our sires are putting on the ground.
Pete Nieschwietz P.O. Box 303 • Falls City, Texas78113 956/460-6002 www.7Nranch.net • pjnieschwietz@sbcglobal.net Ranches located in Donna and Falls City PAGE 25 Spring, 2021 • SIMBRAH World
Thank you to our Synergy buyers: Demmer Family, Bell Farms, Bar 5, Stavinoha Family, Tortorici, Smith Genetics, Joel Gutierrez, Danielle Nelson, and Reavis Farms.
Promote Your Breed...
Simbrah World has Simbrah logos available at no cost for you to use in promoting the breed and/or your operation.
Email Martha at the hollidacompany@gmail.com to receive the artwork. BUILDING OUR PROGRAM WITH QUALITY The Sansom Family Don, Anika, Kayla and Jakob 2103 Tigerpoint, Brenham, Texas 77833 Don: 979/203-6583 • Anika: 325/200-8543
Smith Charming N Lively-a many time champion for Kayla, including 2020 Synergy Grand Champion and Reserve Senior Division at the inaugural Cattle-men’s Classic. She is sired by Smith Have No Fear.
Smith Crack A Smile 805H-a Smith Bella Extra Stretch daughter that is Jakob is campaigning. She’s a Bella Bella granddaughter.
CHRIS BAKER A member of Smith Genetics Kentucky Division Chris Baker 1560 Spillman, Morning View, Kentucky 41063 859/630-3052 For more information contact Tim Smith, consultant 512/587-7896
Smith Diva’s Dancing Queen 20F-Sired by Smith Made Solid and out of the immortal LMC Miss Diva. We purchased a flush in this young donor and mated her to Smith Practical and Smith Dirty Mike. Excitement builds around these genetic packages.
Fisher Family Cattle
WLE Smith C493-This Revolution daughter is a double bred 770P daughter. We purchased embryos in her that are sired by Smith Satisfies and the resulting females will be the foundation of our program. Full siblings to these embryos have sold for $15,000 in recent Synergy sales.
CODY TRIESCH
219 Peaceful Lane • Blanco, Texas 78606 • 512/750-2338
979.255.0332 Simmental • Simbrah • SimAngus Genetics
KENTUCKY DIVISION Quarter Horses, Simmental and Simbrah Cattle
Smith Andy N Black
Jason Smith, Aimee & Andy Nienaber, Lisa & Nathan Naive, William & Beth Smith For information contact Tim Smith, smithgenetics1@gmail.com • 512/587-7896 PAGE 26
Spring, 2021 • SIMBRAH World
• Mar 22-23-Alamo City Simbrah Online Sale • April 5-6-Two Fast Nickels Online Sale • April 9-11 Southern Showcase, sponsored by Texas Simmental/Simbrah Association Brenham, Texas • April 12-13-Triple C Cattle Simbrah Select Online Sale • June 9-12-Texas Junior Simmental/Simbrah Association Futurity, Bryan-College Station, Texas. • May 22-2nd Annual Get Back to Grass Sale, Henderson, Texas • May 22-23-Smith Genetics Annual Cow Camp, Giddings, Texas • June 22-26-American Junior Simbrah Roundup, Wharton, Texas • June 26-July 2-American Junior Simmental Association National Classic, Grand Island, Nebraska • Sept. 25-26-Synergy XIV Sale and Showcase, Giddings, Texas • Oct. 2nd-La Muneca 33rd Annual LMC Roundup & Futurity, Linn, Texas • Nov 20-23-LMC & Friends Giving THANKS Online Sale VII
3JK Cattle Co. ......................................24 5MM Ranch..........................................23 4S Cattle ..............................................26 6G Cattle Co. .......................................28 7N Ranch ..........................................8,25 American Simmental Association ...........3 Baker, Chris .........................................26 Bar CB Ranch ......................................21 Baring Cattle Co. ...................................5 Bar P Bar Cattle Co. .............................23 B&M Cattle.............................................6 Bovine Elite ..........................................22 Brolaco Cattle Co. ..................................8 Buresh Cattle Co. .................................23 Get Back To Grass Sale........................16 GHG Cattle ............................................6 Glueck Cattle Company .......................23 Grinstead .............................................23 Guerra, Victor.........................................8 Fisher Family Cattle .............................26 Floyd Goodwin .....................................23 Ford-Bergner, LLP ...............................19 Hodges Cattle Co .................................12 Hutto, Kathy .........................................22 KQ Cattle Co. ........................................ 8 J&L Ranch ...........................................26 La Hacienda Hinojosa ............................8 La Muneca Cattle Co. .......................8 BC La Negra Cattle Co.................................8 Lazy SF Ranch.....................................23
Lopez, Anthony ....................................23 Lost Cause Ranch................................22 LPJ Ranch .............................................8 McCrary Farms ..................................IFC Melson Simbrah ...................................12 Monte Christo Ranch ........................8,17 Pine Ridge Ranch ...........................14,15 Pool Farms...........................................20
Reagan, Terry ......................................22 Reavis Farms .................................8, IBC Reed, Jeffrey........................................22 Reeves, Ronnie ...................................23 RGV Cattle Co. ......................................8 Rio Grande Valley Breeders ...................8 Robertson Farms .................................22 Rocking G Cattle ....................................7 Sandifer, Brian & Britni .........................22 Shallow Water Ranch...........................22 Simbrah-Simmental Superbowl ...........10 Smith Genetics....................................1,2 Smith Kentucky ....................................26 Strack Farms..........................................4 Taylor Simbrah .....................................22 Temperance Livestock .........................20 Texas Simmental/Simbrah Association ..3 Tindle Cattle Co....................................22 Top C Cattle Co. .....................................8 Trial Run Cattle ....................................22 Triesch, Cody.......................................26 SIMBRAH World • Spring, 2021 PAGE 27
PAGE 28
Spring, 2021 • SIMBRAH World