Spring • 2023 National Show Coverage






She is making her mark on the breed and has quickly become the leader of this cow family.
She’s dancing her way into breed greatness.
12
National Show Champions Named Exhibitors vied for titles at the National Show
Safe Handling Equates To Profitability A look at the bottom line of feed commodities
She Leads By Example A visit with junior Simbrah leader, Hallie Hackett
P.O. Box 330
Giddings, TX 78942
512/587-7896
smithgenetics1@gmail.com
We raise bulls to work. Regardless of your need—show ring, herd sire, range bull, we have them.
He is a Pays to Believe ¾ SM x ¼ BR and he is our new herd sire. His first calves have arrived and they are generating some real excitement. We believe his daughters will be profitable additions to our herd and could be to yours. He currently ranks in the top 2% of the breed for Shear and TI; top 3% of the breed for WW; top 10% for YW and Marb; top 15% for MWW and Carcass and top 25% for ADG and API.
WE WILL HAVE DAUGHTERS OF HIS SELLING IN SYNERGY IN SEPTEMBER.
FOR SEMEN INQUIRIES, CALL OR TEXT WAYNE!
2023 International Reserve Grand Champion Bull. Owned by Charlee Bell.
He’s out of our RFI Pagent cow, a daughter of Satisifes and sired by Smith Steppin’ Up Your Game, that is one our senior herd sires. This bull ranks in the top 5% of the breed for CE and top 15% for BW. Congratulations Charlee Bell on your win with this Reavis/BMC bred bull.
RANGE BULLS: We have a number of bulls for sale, including those that just came off the RGVBIA test. If you’re looking to add pounds and profitability to your commercial cowherd, then consider a RFI bred bull.
Thank you to Charles Fazzino who purchased a RFI bred bull last year—he’s returned this spring and added another one. Repeat customers is the evidence our bulls work.
Reavis Farms is a diversified family farm, raising cattle, onions, watermelons, sunflowers, grain sorghum and cotton.
The Alamo City Online Simbrah Sale will be April 2425 on www.cattleinmotion.com. The offering will feature Simbrah, Simmental and Brahman prospects. For more information contact Roy Baring 210/8676650, Ryan Baring 210/867-6653 or Joe B. Rodriquez 210/275-0839.
Simbrah youth exhibitors were by far the largest group in the Simbrah-Simmental competition, held Feb. 15th in conjunction with the San Antonio Junior Breeder Heifer Show. The 31st year of the event drew a total of 147 exhibitors from SimGenetics and featured large payouts in showmanship and shows. To date over $1 million has been awarded and is funded by supporting sponsors. For complete class placings, show winners, showmanship winners and scholarship recipients visit www.simbrah-simmentalsuperbowl.net.
The American Simmental Association (ASA) has announced it will host STYLE 2023, June 9-11 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, for ages 25-45. It is a program dedicated to developing young leaders in the ASA membership, STYLE brings together young cattle producers from all over the U.S. Discovery of self-leadership, a deeper understanding of the greater beef industry, learning the fundamentals and “under the hood” functions of the ASA and its governance, along with relationship-building with the cohort and others from all over America is what STYLE offers.
If you are interested in this year’s program, contact Luke Bowman, director of SimGenetic Development at lbowman@simmgene.com or (765) 993-6681.
Smith Genetics, Giddings, Texas will once again hold their annual cow camp, May 20-21 at the ranch. The two-day camp will be a Sullivan’s Stock Show U event for the fitting, grooming and showmanship portions. The camp will also cover material and be interactive for the educational contests featured at the Texas Junior Simmental/Simbrah Association Futurity, American Junior Simbrah Roundup and American Junior Simmental Association’s National Classic. To learn more and sign up, visit smithgenetics.com.
The Simbrah community extends condolences to Tim Smith and family as his mother, Gertrude Smith passed on Feb. 16th. Her obituary information can be found at www. chambersandgrubbs.com. The Boening Family lost their patriarch, Kenneth on Feb. 8th. His obituary can be found at finchfuneralchapels.com.
Junior Simbrah exhibitors will want to mark the dates of the summer shows on their calendars. The Texas Junior Simmental/Simbrah Association will host their annual futurity, June 7-10 in Bryan, Texas, while the American Junior Simbrah Roundup will be held in Brenham, Texas, June 20-24. The South Central Regional Classic will be June 21-24 in Springfield, Missouri, while the American Junior Simmental Association National Classic will be July 17-13 in Des Moines, Iowa. For additional information and entry dates please visit the respective websites.
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. For details on how you can get copies of the brochure for distribution and have the sign at events in your area, contact the ASA at 406/587-4531.
Sponsorships for the annual Simbrah Roundup are available and this 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 Brande Fruge’ 337/513-1761. The American Junior Simbrah Roundup will be held in Brenham, Texas June 20-24th.
The American Junior Simmental Association (AJSA) has announced the Summit Leadership Conference will be held in Phoenix, Arizona July 20-23. This leadership event will include educational workshops, industry leading speakers and tours to agricultural companies and ranches. This is a multi-breed event with juniors from AJSA, as well as Shorthorn, Gelbvieh, Limousin and Chianana. For more details visit: https://form.jotform.com/230465236531148.
Leah Thorp and her family were honored during the International Simbrah Show. Her heifer, Smith Sandifer Lovely Lady May, who was the 2022 International Champion Simbrah was honored for her recent accomplishment of winning the Miss Simbrah World title in the Champions of the World Competition. The judging was an international event. The female is sired by Smith Made Solid and carries the Smith Bella Bella cow in her maternal lineage.
For additional news, events, 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. You can also place your customers on our free mailing list by completing the form at the bottom of the page. Simbrah World is also very social. Check out our Facebook page for posts on a regular basis. Plus, we have several advertising opportunities for you, contact Martha at hollidacompany@gmail.com or call 903/316-8465.
We focus heavily on junior customers and their families. We consider it an honor to assist these young people and their families with their genetics.
We want to congratulate and recognize the youth who selected our heifers for this year’s campaign: Grant Hinckley, Paisley Lightfoot, Colson Glueck, Seth Groce, Jamison Capps and Jacob Merritt.
Also thank you to the Gluecks and Pilats for purchasing our lots in Synergy XV.
David and Thuy Grimes
KALEB FONTENOT AND KATARINA AXTELL
Henderson, Texas 832/594-7530 | Dgrimes012@gmail.com www.tmplivestock.com
For
contact:
SIMBRAH... combines the strengths of the two most populous breeds of cattle in the world — Simmental and Brahman. The fertility, milking ability and rapid growth of the Simmental is complemented by the heat tolerance and hardiness of the Brahman.Grant Hinckley showed Smith TMP Bella Paula Marie to a division champions at the Superbowl and a class win at the Houston Junior Show.
The 2023 National Purebred and Percentage Simbrah Shows were once again held Feb. 11th in conjunction with the San Antonio Livestock Show. Mark Ebeling evaluated the entries and commented frequently on the quality paraded before him.
Ebeling selected John Patton Reavis, Mission, Texas and his heifer, RFI Smith Luv U Deb 250K as the winner of the heifer calf division. The female was sired by Smith Practical 42D. BPB Vidalia 027K, a 6G/LMC Rajin Cajun daughter was named reserve heifer calf for Bar P Bar Cattle Co., Weimar, Texas.
Harper Mau, Columbus, Texas led her heifer, CKG Electrum, a daughter of CK6 Big Iron to the National Intermediate Champion title and Pool Farms, Henderson, Texas won the reserve in this division with Queen V 3JP, a female sired by 3JP Who Dat.
The junior champion female banner went to Carlos Guerra, III, Linn, Texas with BLCO LMC Fresca J107, a daughter LMC MT Transformer, while the reserve junior title went to Callie Heaton, Washington, Texas with DMM Sassy Cheyenne, a daughter of Smith No Better Than This.
In the senior champion division, Hallie Hackett, Hooks, Texas took her heifer, Smith McCrary Roxie 52H, a daughter of Smith Made Solid to the title and Tanner Carrizales, Orange Grove, Texas won the reserve honor with LMC LF Phoenix, a daughter of LMC MT Transformer.
The 2023 National Grand Champion Female honor went to BLCO LMC Fresca J107, exhibited by Carlos Guerra, III and the 2023 National Reserve Grand Champion title went to DMM Sassy Cheyenne, exhibited by Callie Heaton.
In the bull show, Golden Star Simbrah, Golden, Texas won the division with Golden Tyrant, a LMC BBS Rambler son. Hallie Hackett took the reserve bull calf banner with Smith McCrary My Turn 493K, sired by Smith Steppin’ Up Your Game.
Mayes Cattle Company won the next division with Mayes Justice J1, a LMC BBS Rambler son, owned by Mayes Cattle Co., Franklin, Texas. Pool Farms with Catch 22 3JP won the reserve intermediate title. The bull was sired by 3JP Who Dat.
Mia Barba, Rosharon, Texas took the junior champion bull division with Double M Money Talks, a LMC BBS Manziel son and Avery Rendon won the senior champion title with RCCS Black Mack, a LHH Ambush 801F son.
Golden Star Simbrah saw their bull, Golden Tyrant take home the 2023 National Grand Champion Bull honor, while Mayes Cattle Co., with Mayes Justice J1 was named the 2023 National Reserve Grand Champion bull.
Smith Genetics, Giddings, Texas won the National Get-ofSire honor with progeny of Smith Made Solid and also the best 3 Head honor.
In the Percentage Simbrah Show, Pool Farms and LSSC Miss Loretta 312H, a daughter of LSSC Mr Class Act was named the 2023 Grand Champion, while Bar P Bar Cattle Company with BPB Jade 022J, a DMCC /Wood Full Loaded sired female took the National Reserve Grand Champion title.
Smith Isgrig Something In Red, sired by JSUL Something
About Mary was named the National Grand Champion
Percentage Bull for Smith Genetics and Isgrig and Peach Warrior K6, a son of Wheatland Man O War, was selected as the National Reserve Grand Percentage Bull for Peach Creek Ranch, Granger, Texas.
PHOTOS NOT AVAILABLE
Reserve Intermediate Champion Female
Junior Champion Bull
Senior Champion Bull
Reserve Intermediate Champion Bull
We have a small, but great set of bulls ready to go to work! 3 of the top 4 bulls in the Simbrah division in the Rio Grande Valley Performance Bull Test were bred by 6G Ranch including the Top 2 bulls in their division. We continue to focus on producing moderate functional cattle that are changing with the beef industry. Many thanks to Ishee Simmentals for offering outcross options that are backed by years of planned matings. Call us if you are in need of a herd sire or bull for your commercial operation that is focused on economics!
Many thanks to the Eilers Family from Brenham for their purchase of an outstanding set of replacement heifers that represent some of our most productive cow families! The Eilers are positioning themselves to produce top end Simbrah that will be functional and backed by championship genetics.
We have a great set of babies that are awaiting their next home! The pasture has several AI sired babies that are looking for a junior and a halter, and this crop is filled with power & performance. We also have a great set of ¾ X ¼ females and steers that are focused on power & performance.
Looking for polled, outcross genetics? We have a small set of replacement heifers that offer some interesting polled, outcross genetics for the breed! These cattle are sired by a polled, Fleckvieh bull and their dam was a 3/8 x 5/8 female sold to Hollis Keene in Louisiana. We are looking for big things out of this group of females in the future.
THERE
OFTEN FOUND ON T-SHIRTS AND SIGNS THAT SAYS, “I LOVE YOU, EXCEPT WHEN WE ARE WORKING CATTLE.”
While the sign is meant to garner a few chuckles, it hits home with a lot of people. No matter who you are working cattle with – your spouse, your children, your help or by yourself – it more often than not turns into a stressful event that can jeopardize the safety of those working cattle and the cattle themselves.
Loading cattle on a trailer, into a chute, rounding them up in a pasture and more can seem simple enough, until it’s not. However, there are actions and considerations producers can take to create a safe and positive experience for all, including the livestock.
Kevin Thompson, research center director at the Middle Tennessee UTAgResearch and Education Center, says good handling practices start long before the day of working cattle. “Be present with your herd and don’t expect any movement from them. Ride your horse out in the pasture frequently enough so that the cattle are used to your presence and don’t turn up their tail and run the minute they see you and your horse coming,” he said.
Jason Duggin, beef extension specialist with the University of Georgia, said, “Loading cattle is often the riskiest part of working cattle because of the handler’s exposure when closing cut gates and the uniqueness of trailer noises that can turn cattle back on a handler very abruptly. The ideal option for loading cattle is through a single file, loading alleyway. This allows for handlers to apply pressure and use an animal’s point of balance as they pass by the shoulder of the animal. It also allows for the handlers to be in a safer position for flighty cattle that may become aggressive in a loading situation, as they are less able to turn back on handlers.”
Thompson echoed this sentiment and said the highest incident of injuries occur when loading cattle. “I believe it is because you are more stressed at the time and put extra pressure on the cattle,” he continued. “If you are loading cattle it is because you are moving them or selling them, which can both create stress subconsciously. The key to safely loading cattle is to learn how to control your own stress level as the cattle pick up on your stress.”
Thompson further explained that there is an art to applying and releasing pressure when working cattle. He said the science of applying and releasing pressure gives cattle time to think and visualize what they are going into (be it a chute or trailer). “Depth perception is a big thing for cattle and when you push them onto a trailer that is going to be darker than the alley they are in, it can create caution in cattle,” he continued, “Often times we push them too fast and then they balk and turn the opposite direction. It’s important to take your time and allow them to sniff and visualize the trailer and once one loads, the rest should follow suit with little added pressure.”
Duggin pointed out that it is not until someone is injured that we appreciate the importance of safety. “The key to safety is thinking ahead in regard to possible danger spots and talking about them with your family or crew. Some of the most obvious points of caution are swinging gates, which are an essential part of loading or getting cattle to an alley. Having sufficient sturdy gates at critical areas in alleyways and pens is vital to safety, and at the same time, gates can be very dangerous when kicked back toward the handler. I always remind producers to close gates with extreme caution when cattle are in close quarters to avoid gates being kicked back into the handler’s face.”
Cattle are herding animals, but most likely when you head to the pasture to begin rounding them up and working them, they will be spread out and grazing.
“We need to be mindful that cattle’s comfort is found in being with the herd. We can use their pivot points to direct them – as a group – toward the exit point of the pasture,” Thompson shared. “I always like to have someone pushing the group from behind, someone who stays along the side of the herd and I depend on a well-built fence for the third pressure point. This allows you to safely control speed and direction as you gather your herd. The side person is the strongest link in this scenario as cattle will tend to spread out when moving.”
IS A FUNNY SAYING
Pine Ridge Simbrah are unique in the world.
Black skinned, red hair, blaze faced, polled, flank as deep as chest, moderate, spring of rib and long.
Over 35 years of harvesting and we are producing 85% to 95% Choice.
Our Simbrahs are truly hot weather cows--that NEVER stand in the pond to cool despite 100F plus weather. They can take the heat!
Our cattle cross extremely well with other breeds.
Smith EASY PICKIN’ 229J
This polled female is unique—she’s double bred Smith Satisfies and brings the Diva and Rio Princess cow families to our program. She excels in length, extension of front end, is loaded with structural integrity and has the angularity we want in females. Plus, she’s in the top 2% of the breed for API and 10% for TI.
Polled Purebred Simbrah. Sired by Smith Just Because, a combination of Stout and Diva Cow Families. His dam, Smith SWFS Detonation combines the Bella Bella and Priceless cow families. Talk about a pedigree he has it. Plus he’s got muscle, clean lines and stoutness. He ranks in the top 1% for calving ease, birth weight and maternal calving ease; top 5% for API and top 15% for TI.
5mm ranch | giddings, texas | purebred/percentage simbrah cliff & sandra marshall | 512/799-4471 | cliff.marshall@gmail.com
OUR REGISTERED SIMBRAH PROGRAM IS GROWING, AS WE HAVE ADDED IN JAKE’S SHOW HEIFERS OVER THE YEARS, INCLUDING THE TWO PICTURED. WE SELECT CATTLE THAT ARE FUNCTIONAL, STRONG IN MATERNAL VALUES, HAVE SOUND STRUCTURE AND ARE DESTINED TO ADD PROFITABILITY.
JSJW So BougieLMC BBS Kelly 5D/191
2022 TJSSA Reserve Percentage Simbrah. Sired by OZH Rito 42M3 and out of TSC Ginger, a many time champion for Jake.
2018 Fort Worth Junior Show Reserve Grand and State Fair Junior Show Grand Champion. Sired by LMC Red Rock and out
THAT’S THE KIND YOU WILL FIND IN OUR REGISTERED HERD, AS WELL AS OUR COMMERCIAL HERD. WE INVITE YOUR INQUIRIES ABOUT OUR PROGRAM AND WOULD LOVE TO TALK TO YOU ABOUT THE CATTLE WE HAVE FOR SALE—BOTH REGISTERED AND COMMERCIAL.
Jerry, Sara and Jake Williams 78 CR 633 | Dayton, Texas Sara 936/402-5354 or Jake 936/641-3132 Williamscattletx@gmail.com
A direct daughter of Bella Bella and Smith Satisfies—and a full sister to Smith Bella Amelia. We have added this donor prospect to our program to intensify the genetics of Bella. Watch for her impact.
Smith
Now at work in our program. A son of Smith Have No Fear and out of Smith Bella Amelia 526B. This combination gives us more of the Bella Cow Family and also genetics of the Diva Cow Family. Shake It Up provides great structure integrity, muscle and built-in calving ease EPDs. We can’t wait to get his progeny in our herd.
We’re building our herd through proven linages, predictable performance, and powerful EPD profiles. We are committed to establishing our foundation with some of the strongest genetics possible. Truly, we feel like we have some of the “Queens” in SimGenetics. We invite your inquiries and we would love to show our royalty!
Smith
In our continued quest to add proven, predictable lines, we have selected this She Moves granddaughter, sired by Smith Just Because. With her we also get the Diva Cow Family on the sire side. In addition she brings a top 5% of the breed index for API and top 10% for API.
3JK Cattle Co
Scott and Janessa King and Family Zephyr, Texas • 325/200-8740 Because Genetics Matter
John
Washington, Texas 77880
713/894-8999
simbrah73@gmail.com
& Jana Mixon PO Box 322
We continue to add to our young and growing program. Every selection is evaluated for the genetic predictability, performance and marketability they can deliver. We invite you to come see our herd and learn about our program.Smith Gotta Have Bella 362K Shake It Up 556K Blazing Moves 029J
IF YOU DO AN INTERNET SEARCH FOR THE WORD LEADER , YOU FIND WORDS AND PHRASES LIKE A LEADER IS SOMEONE WHO INSPIRES PASSION AND MOTIVATION IN OTHERS; A LEADER IS SOMEONE WITH VISION AND THE PATH TO REALIZING IT; BEING SUPPORTIVE AND HELPING TEAM MEMBERS ACHIEVE THEIR GOALS. THEN THERE IS, “TO LEAD BY EXAMPLE” WHICH IS SHOWING OTHERS HOW TO PROCEED. TAKE YOUR PICK, BUT REGARDLESS, JUNIOR SIMBRAH EXHIBITOR, HALLIE HACKETT HAS PROVEN TO BE AN EFFECTIVE LEADER ON LOCAL, STATE AND NATIONAL LEVELS .
The graduating senior is from Hooks, Texas, which is located in far northeast Texas. She is very active in her school and community. She is a Texas FFA Area VI Vice-President, your current Texas Junior Simmental/Simbrah Association President and Queen and an American Junior Simmental Association South Central (AJSA) Region Trustee. She also serves as a Texas Beef Ambassador through the Texas Cattlewomen.
Hallie has always shown Simbrahs and her desire to be a leader in SimGenetics evolved as her participation has increased. While her days are coming to an end in the junior show rings, her involvement in agriculture is just beginning. Hallie will be attending Texas A&M University to major in animal science and she has her sights set on a career as a veterinarian. Hallie recently was selected as a Welch Foundation Scholar, which has earned her a full ride scholarship to A&M.
She is quick to promote school ag programs as an amazing opportunity for young people. “There are so many chances for students to learn new things and experience things that will help them later in life. Contests, leader positions and ag classes allow students to be able to discover possible careers, meet new people and learn life skills,” she said.
She readily acknowledges that her animals have been instructors in her life, teaching her responsibility, time management, perseverance, while providing financial experiences and requiring hard work.
Like a good leader, she recognizes she has a strong support system starting with her parents, Aaron and Shelley Hackett. She is also grateful to Simbrah breeders, Dr. Mark and Martha McCrary, who have bred the heifers she has exhibited and encouraged her involvement in the breed since day one. She points out that youth in SimGenetics and Texas
youth livestock exhibitors are very blessed to have many, many people who back these organizations financially and with their time as volunteers.
She also knows that she is in a role model position, as she serves in these three SimGenetic leadership position and embraces it. She said that she was largely influenced by others in these positions and they were influential in her decision to lead and serve.
Simbrah World caught up with Hallie and asked her a few questions.
What drew you to the cattle industry?
My father had been involved in the cattle industry long before I was born. When my brother and I were little, neither of us wanted to show, so my father dispersed all of the cows that he owned. Not long after that, I found a magazine in our kitchen with a girl showing on the cover. After about a year, I convinced my father to finally let me show, and the rest is history. Since then, I have become much more dedicated to cattle, the agricultural industry, and increased my involvement in related associations. Growing up in these associations has shown me that showing cattle is much more than being in the ring and that has encouraged me to be involved and to my part to strengthen each organization.
What drew you to the numerous leadership positions you hold?
The longer that I was involved in the junior associations, the more that I grew to appreciate the leadership within it. Many of my best memories revolve around those that were in the same positions that I have held. As I became older, I realized that I wanted to be able to give back to the associations that had helped me become the person that I am today. The positions themselves have been a wonderful opportunity for me to connect and encourage other juniors within our junior associations.
What is your time management secret?
I am a big planner! I keep a calendar with all of my upcoming events and schedule of shows, contests and other events. Having “A & B” days throughout high school has also helped in that I am not necessarily missing every class each day I am out, which has also helped to prepare me for college. My parents have always been “checklist” or “to do list” people so it came naturally. I also have been raised in a household that was no nonsense when it comes to getting your business handled. If I didn’t keep up with my classwork my parents made it clear I would not be attending events.
What would you tell other Simbrah youth why they should go to AJSA Classic?
I would tell other Simbrah youth that going to the National Classic is a wonderful experience. Being able to make connections with other juniors across the country is exciting and creates lasting friendships. The AJSA Classic is also a perfect opportunity for juniors to represent the Simbrah breed. Considering the Simbrah breed is small in numbers compared to the Simmental exhibitors, our juniors must show up to prove how strong the Simbrah breed is. This
event provides a learning experience through contests and opportunities for leadership throughout the week. Most importantly, nationals is a fun way to grow your passion as an exhibitor, meet new people, strengthen bonds with old friends and learn new things.
What’s been the most enjoyable thing about this year and being in these three leadership positions?
Although I have been incredibly busy this year, I enjoy getting to go to so many places, do so many things and meet so many new people. These positions have allowed me to expand on my own leadership skills and become more confident in my own abilities, in and out of contests. Being able to attend so many events has kept me busy, but I wouldn’t want to be doing anything other than being involved with the cattle industry.
Tell us about your beef ambassador position and why that was important for you to be involved in?
The Texas Beef Ambassador position allows me to advocate for the beef cattle industry through social media posts and in-person advocating events. Being a beef ambassador has been an amazing way for me to share information about the industry that I love and help other people become more knowledgeable about beef. I try to advocate for the industry no matter what I am doing, so becoming a beef ambassador was something that I really wanted to do, not only to advocate, but to develop my ability to communicate.
Hallie is currently serving as the Texas Junior Simmental/Simbrah Association President and Queen and American Junior Simmental Association South Central Region Trustee.1667 Hallmark Canyon Lake, Texas 78133 830/554-0388
Tim Smith Consultant 512/587-7896
We are utilizing the services of Smith Dirty Mike, and here is a daughter of his we have in our program.
He goes on to warn that more often than not, things go south when the herd nears the exit point because we tend to get excited that we made it that far and apply too much pressure, which creates nervousness in the herd and we lose control. In turn, this creates stress in the herd and that stress will carry over as you work cattle.
“Safety is first and foremost vital for those working cattle, but the safety of the animal is the next priority. We never want to create stress or injury for our livestock and that benefits our bottom line as well. We spend a lot of money on semen, feed and vaccines; when you increase the stress level of your animal, we see breeding rates, feed efficiency and vaccine efficiency decrease,” Thompson pointed out.
Working cattle doesn’t have to be a stressful event or a complicated game. As Thompson said, if we can practice low stress livestock handling, it allows us, as producers, the opportunity to better enjoy working our cattle and the opportunity to participate in value added programs as a result of the better working relationship we have with the herd and those we work with.
Keep talking/noise to a minimum when working cattle, especially flighty cattle.
Avoid the heat of the day when working cattle. Chutes should have exits that flow toward an area that the cattle are generally drawn toward such as the directions from which they came, but the exit area should also be free of anything that might deter cattle flow such as vehicles, dogs, 4-wheelers and walls to reassure the safety of the exit point for the herd.
Avoid blind spots. Cattle cannot see directly behind them and a handler that is in that blind spot is more likely to get kicked. Generally, handlers should be 20 to 30 degrees away from the blind spot, left or right.
Do not overcrowd corrals, working tubs or chutes to avoid injury and stress.
Pen riders and handlers are key players in the safety of your crew and your herd. They determine the stress level of the animal and can keep cortisol levels low.
Become BQA (Beef Quality Assurance) certified to learn proper protocols.
We’ve added this beautiful and functional polled purebred Simmental to our program. She will be utilized across the board in SimGenetics. She’s a daughter of Revolution, and she will be bringing us a calf by WLE Smith Big Wig later this spring.
Analyze her—extra bold in her rib, wide topped and stout hipped, plus you can’t deny that attractive front end on this baldy!
Stay tuned — we think she’s going to be a force in SimGenetics.
Sam Hodges | 903/701-7929
825 Usener Street #725 | Houston, TX 77009 Samhodges90@icloud.com
The popular CattleFax Outlook Seminar, held as part of the 2023 Cattle Industry Convention and NCBA Trade Show in New Orleans, shared expert market and weather analysis.
Prices and profitability will again favor cattle producers in 2023. The cattle industry is entering 2023 with the smallest cattle supply since 2015 as drought caused the industry to dig deeper into the supply of feeder cattle and calves. While the exact path to drought relief is unknown, improvements are also expected to translate to moderating feed costs, especially in the second half of 2023. Combined with increased cattle prices, cattle producers, especially the cow-calf operator, will continue to see an improvement in margins for the next several years, according to CattleFax.
Meteorologist Matt Makens said the latest forecast for La Niña has only a 14% probability of existence this spring and down further by the summer, which means a pattern change comes our way this year. A neutral phase will take control of the pattern as La Niña weakens and may last several months before giving El Niño a chance to grow this summer and into the fall.
Kevin Good, vice president of industry relations and analysis at CattleFax, reported that U.S. beef cow cattle inventories have already fallen 1.5 million head from cycle highs. The 2023 beef cow herd is expected to be down about another million head to nearly 29.2 million.
“Drought affected nearly half of the beef cow herd over the last year, exacerbating the liquidation in 2022. Drought improvement and higher cattle prices should drastically slow beef cow culling through 2023,” Good said.
Feeder cattle and calf supplies outside of feedyards will be 400,000 to 450,000 head smaller than 2022 at 25.1 million. After being full for most of the past three years, cattle on feed inventories are expected to begin 2023 at 300,000 to 400,000 head below last year, at 14.3 million head, and remain smaller. Commercial fed slaughter in 2023 is forecast to decline by 750,000 to 800,000 to 25.6 million head.
“With drought forced placement and culling, beef production was record large in 2022 at 28.3 billion pounds. Expect production to drop over the next several years – declining 4% to 5% in 2023 to 27 billion pounds,” Good said. “The decline in production in 2023 will lead to a 2.2-pound decline in net beef supply to 57 pounds per person.”
Good forecast the average 2023 fed steer price at $158/cwt., up $13/cwt. from 2022, with a range of $150 to $172/cwt. throughout the year. All cattle classes are expected to trade higher, and prices are expected to continue to trend upward.
When looking at domestic beef demand, the U.S. economy will be a driving factor going in 2023. CattleFax said inflation, rising interest rates and general economic uncertainty will continue to impact consumer purchasing decisions as many look to limit spending. Inflation reached a 40year high in 2022, triggering the U.S. Federal Reserve to raise interest rates seven times last year with intentions for further rate increases until inflation falls. Through the Federal Reserve hopes to accomplish a “soft landing” and avoid recession, the U.S. economy is expected to slow in 2023 with most economists calling for a mild recession in the second half of the year.
Global protein demand has continued to rise around the world and tighter global protein supplies should broadly support prices in 2023. After more than 20% of growth across the last two years, U.S. beef exports are expected to moderate, declining 3% in 2023 to 3.5 billion pounds. Japan and South Korea remain the top U.S. beef export destinations with stable exports in 2022. Meanwhile, Chinese demand has continued to grow with tonnage up 20% last year, likely with continued room to grow.
adding embryos from her and Smith Steppin’ Up Your
P.O. Box 446 | Kenedy, Texas 78119 | 361/438-3413 | topprice82@icloud.com
Tim Smith, consultant - 512/587-7896
SMITH MOVES TO LIVIN UP 881J
We have added this Smith Just Because daughter to our growing program. She brings the proven She Moves Cow Family to our herd, as she is a granddaughter. She has some impressive index rankings as she is 2% in API and 10% TI.
CODY TRIESCH
219 Peaceful Lane, Blanco, Texas 78606 | 512/750-2338
Tim Smith, consultant 512/587-7896
JEOFF AND LORI WILLIAMS
1048 Heather Ct., Royse City, TX 75189 | 972-207-5275
Tim Smith, consultant - 512/587-7896
We
in Oklahoma and are proving that Simbrah cattle will work in tough environments.
As we are laying the foundation for our program, we are selecting from the best.
We have recently added a granddaughter of Juliet for our program and that female, 915J, also carries the breeding of the Bella Bella Cow Family on the sire side.
Herd building with the BEST! Smith Easy Like 21J His influence is impacting our program.
He’s a son of Smith No Better Than This son, going back to the Ava/Eleanor Cow Families on the maternal side of his pedigree.
KENTUCKY
Horses, Simmental, SimAngus and Simbrah Cattle
April 24-25-Alamo City Online Sale
May 20-21-Smith Genetics Cow Camp, Giddings, Texas
May 20-Back To Grass Sale, Henderson, Texas
June 7-10-Texas Junior Simmental/Simbrah Association Futurity, Bryan, Texas
June 9-11-American Simmental Association’s Style 2023, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
June 20-24-American Junior Simbrah Roundup, Brenham, Texas
June 21-24-South Central Regional Classic, Springfield, Missouri
July 7-13-American Junior Simmental Association National Classic, Des Moines, Iowa
Aug 7-9-Texas A&M Beef Cattle Shortcourse, College Station, Texas
Sept. 23-24 Synergy XVI Sale and Show, Giddings, Texas
Oct.4-Rio Grande Valley Breed Improvement Association Performance Bull Sale
Delivery Date, Edinburg, Texas
Oct. 7-The 35th Annual La Muñeca Junior Roundup, Linn, Texas
Nov. 18-21-LMC & Friends Giving THANKS Sale X
THE MARKET DEMANDS QUALITY IN THE CATTLE BUSINESS TODAY AND THAT’S WHY WE HAVE TAKEN MANY STEPS TO ACQUIRE FUNCTIONAL, HIGH QUALITY INDIVIDUALS WITH PROVEN AND DESIRED GENETICS AND PHENOTYPES. QUALITY ALWAYS SPEAKS THE LOUDEST.
WHEN YOU DEMAND QUALITY, LOOK TO 7N. WE HAVE THE HERD THAT CAN DELIVER THAT TO YOU AND WE’RE FEATURING THREE DONORS HERE FOR YOUR EVALUATION.
LMC BETM BARBIE 5Y/8
This is one of the most prominent She Moves daughters in the breed. The She Moves offspring have excelled in the show arenas and the pasture. We continue to flush this great cow and would love to show you her progeny.
SMITH FULL KARAT 49B
A polled daughter of Smith Nu Approach and out of Smith Pure Diamond. She is now a leader of this cow family. We are flushing her heavily to produce Simbrahs.
SMITH WHITS MISS AMAZING
We have this purebred, homozygous polled Simmental to use in our Simmental, SimAngus and Simbrah programs. She’s a daughter of Smith McCrary Andy Black and goes back to Built Right on the dam’s side. Her pedigree includes Dream On, and Ebonys Antoinette cow. You’ll want to see her progeny.
THANK YOU TO OUR SYNERGY BUYERS GLUECK FAMILY, BRADEN STORK, BRIAN SANDIFER, AND ELLSWORTH CATTLE.
For over forty years La Muñeca has proudly sold semen on all of our top herd bulls on a daily basis. We’ve also provided both registered and commercial operations with high quality herd bulls. We congratulate and appreciate all our semen and herd bull customers on their success with LMC bulls.
by Brolaco Cattle Company
by Carlos Guerra III
Grand Champion Heifer - TJSSA Futurity
by Bar P Bar Cattle Co.