Sue Giles Programs Coordinator Cell: 403-793-0409 sgiles@simmental.com
Dwayne Martin Sales Representative Cell: 780-940-3510 dmartin@simmental.com
Booking & Material Deadline: April 1, 2025
Booking & Material Deadline: July 1, 2025
Booking & Material Deadline: September 7, 2025
Booking & Material Deadline: October 15, 2025
Booking & Material Deadline: January 1, 2026
Booking & Material Deadline: August 1, 2025
Booking & Material Deadline: December 1, 2025
Simmental Country
Special production requests and ad copy changes may be subject to extra charges. Charges will apply on an individual basis.
- Requests for special layouts should be in the Simmental Country office by the 21st day of the second month preceding publication. Although every effort will be made to provide proofs on all ads, proofs are guaranteed only if all ad material arrives in the Country
- The Simmental Country assumes no responsibility for the accuracy and truthfulness of submitted advertising copy or electronically supplied pictures and has the right to refuse any ad copy or photos. Advertisers shall indemnify and hold harmless the Country containing pedigrees or statements regarding performance must conform to records kept by the Canadian Simmental Association. Copy deviating from official records may be changed as necessary without advertiser consent.
- Articles and information in this magazine represent the opinions of the writers and the information that, to the best of our knowledge, was accurate at the time of writing. Users of any information contained in Simmental Country are encouraged to validate that information by
All rights reserved. The contents of this publication may not be reproduced by any means, in whole or in part, without the prior written consent of the Canadian
Editor: Bryan Kostiuk
Marketing: Chris Poley, Ben Wright & Shane Michelson
Beginning January 1, 2025, the CSA is offering a rebate to cover part of our member’s costs to do genomically enhanced parentage panels on heifers and bulls born in 2025 that are 100K DNA tested.
DNA must be submitted to the lab by December 31, 2025. All 2025 born calves with a 100K test result confirming accurate parentage verification at March 1, 2026 will be credited $10 per animal to active CSA member accounts.
2025 CSA DNA/Ultrasound Program
Replacement Heifer and Yearling Bull
Ultrasound DNA Program
CSA is offering a rebate on replacement heifers and yearling bulls born in 2024 (M) that are ultrasound scanned and 100K DNA tested by the same member.
Completed ultrasound and 100K DNA results must be submitted to the CSA office by July 31, 2025.
CSA will credit $27.50 per animal to active CSA member accounts by October 1, 2025.
For more information, contact the CSA office: (403) 250-7979 | cansim@simmental.com
From The Gatepost
By Bruce Homlquist General Manager, Canadian Simmental Association
Simmental – A Great Place to Be!
Simmental breeders are now well into 2025 calving and breeding plans of the past are coming to fruition with each trip to the calving barn. It is always an exciting time to see our mating decisions that were made over nine months ago and if they have paid dividends. Bull sale catalogues are beginning to arrive, and many breeders are breathing a sigh of relief to at least have that process completed.
2024 wrapped up in fine fashion with some very successful female sales that were some of the highlights of all beef cattle seed-stock sales. This was combined with some record prices paid for all categories of commercial cattle, and especially on bred females. There appears to be some renewed optimism that will hopefully lead to heifer retention and expansion of the commercial cow herd. Many new breeders joined the Simmental family with their first purchases, as well as some other operations that added females to strengthen or expand their existing herds. There were also some very successful dispersal sales and while it is always sad to see breeders and friends move onto the next chapters of their lives, it is inevitable, and we are fortunate to still have their genetics as part of the Simmental breed going forward.
2025 is shaping up to be another busy and exciting year for Simmental in Canada. The bull sales are stocked with an even deeper selection of top-quality animals than ever before in every segment of the breed. There is no breed that offers as wide of a range of genetic options than Simmental. Remember if it isn’t registered with the CSA at sale time, then it is nothing more than a visual unknown regarding pedigree and possible genetic potential.
The Canadian Simmental Association is pleased to have two new faces within our team of staff with Jennifer Scott joining us as Young Canadian Simmental Association Coordinator and Dwayne Martin who is our new Simmental Country Sales Representative and part of our Canadian Simmental Industry Services team. Both have experience and understanding of the Canadian beef industry and will be solid assets for our membership.
Some of the events being organized for the CSA membership in 2025 are led by moving the YCSA Youth T.E.A.M Leadership Conference to Eastern Canada and Guelph in May. Following that we will be hosting the 2025 CSA Convention in Weyburn, Saskatchewan. The Saskatchewan Simmental Association is hard at work planning a busy schedule that will play host to Simmental breeders and other industry partners. Included in the schedule is the CSA Annual General Meeting, the Friends of Canadian Simmental Foundation auction, and the Young Canadian Simmental Association National Classic.
As we move into the fall, there will again be numerous shows and events that will be held across Canada that will be some of the main events within the CSA Award of Excellence Program. This program features the show winners from various events in each province and it is always an exciting process to track the various shows leading into the finale at Canadian Western Agribition.
2025 is going to be another busy year so be sure to check the Simmental Country calendar of events, and the CSA e-news for further information. All the best in your operations in 2025 and may your grass be belly high!
Harry & Michelle Satchwell
Brandon, Dani Satchwell & Boys
Allison & Spencer Satchwell Cremona, AB
Harry’s Home: 403-637-2587
Harry’s Cell: 403-818-4205
Brandon’s Cell: 403-869-7205
Email: virginiaranch8@gmail.com
Riley & Jolene Edwards
Cody Edwards & Family Didsbury, AB
Riley cell 403-507-9606
Cody cell 403-599-7219
Email: riley-edwards@live.com
SPRUCE VIEW ACRES SPRUCE VIEW ACRES Open House Open
JOIN US FOR AN OPEN HOUSE WEEKEND
February 21st, 22nd & 23rd, 2025 - At the Farm - 10 AM to 6 PM Viewing is available anytime - however, no animals will be sold before Feb. 21st Heifer Silent Bids ~ Open House Weekend
For more info or Terms & Conditions Contact: Tracy: 780-679-0713 Steve: 780-281-0511 moomoocow@xplornet.com
Farm Location: 48143 Hwy 834, Camrose County, AB
Check out our new Facebook Page! Spruce View Acres Simmentals Silent Heifer Bids: Ben Featherstone: 780-686-0873
Cattle Videos Available after January 26th
Breed Improvement
By Sean McGrath
Breed Improvement Coordinator for the Canadian Simmental Association
EYE ON THE BALL
The Simmental breed has enjoyed tremendous commercial support over the last several years. This success grew from a focus on some basics that matter to the industry and end consumers. A way to think about these basics and supported by the Beef Improvement Federation is the concept of an economically relevant trait or ERT. For a breed to be considered relevant it needs to provide an economic return and not be distracted by selecting for things that do impact the economics of the customer base.
If we look at the tools that Simmental breeders have deployed and are making progress on, we can definitely see a focus on ERTs. The first, easy to understand example is calving ease. Calving ease is an ERT as it impacts labour at calving, rebreeding success and calf survival. The genetic trend for CE shows a positive trend for the breed over the last decades. If we think back to the Simmental cattle of the late 1990s and before, it would be difficult to argue that we have not made significant advancements in this important area.
ERTs. The first, easy to understand example is calving ease. Calving ease is an ERT as it impacts labour at calving, rebreeding success and calf survival. The genetic trend for CE shows a positive trend for the breed over the last decades. If we think back to the Simmental cattle of the late 1990s and before, it would be difficult to argue that we have not made significant advancements in this important area.
Another important area that has received focus is maternal influence and fertility. In traditional beef production systems, it has been shown that reproduction is much more impactful on overall profitability than growth. One of the first steps implemented by Simmental breeders was the implementation of Total Herd Enrolment and collection of breeding and disposal information on cows. This is further enhanced by the production of a Stayability EPD to assess additive genetic merit for longevity. This is a very powerful ERT as cow depreciation is one of the largest costs for cow/calf producers.
Figure 1. Canadian Simmental Calving Ease Genetic Trend 2009-2024
Another important area that has received focus is maternal influence and fertility. In traditional beef production systems, it has been shown that reproduction is much more impactful on overall profitability than growth. One of the first steps implemented by Simmental breeders was the implementation of Total Herd Enrolment and collection of breeding and disposal information on cows. This is further enhanced by the production of a Stayability EPD to assess additive genetic merit for longevity. This is a very powerful ERT as cow depreciation is one of the largest costs for cow/calf producers.
Growth and carcass characteristics drive income as well, and Simmental has developed programs to help encourage the collection of ultrasound data, as well as participating in genetic evaluation for both growth and carcass traits. The breed has made significant progress, particularly in the area of marbling, over the last 30 years. This has been incredibly important in modern grading systems to maintain the relevance of the breed and marketability of carcasses.
Growth and carcass characteristics drive income as well, and Simmental has developed programs to help encourage the collection of ultrasound data, as well as participating in genetic evaluation for both growth and carcass traits. The breed has made significant progress, particularly in the area
of marbling, over the last 30 years. This has been incredibly important in modern grading systems to maintain the relevance of the breed and marketability of carcasses.
Other example ERT that matter, although not an exhaustive list are things such as mature size and feed intake. These are areas that Simmental continues to focus on through member efforts in terms of data collection and their partnership with IGS in developing new traits.
Other example ERT that matter, although not an exhaustive list are things such as mature size and feed intake. These are areas that Simmental continues to focus on through member efforts in terms of data collection and their partnership with IGS in developing new traits.
Example ERTs
Income
Weaning Weight
Post Weaning Gain
Carcass Weight
Marbling
Fat/REA (Yield)
Mature Size (Cull Value)
One of the most powerful tools available to the industry in pursuit of financial sustainability is the power of planned crossbreeding. Every major protein industry including pork, poultry and plants uses planned crossbreeding and the power of hybrid vigour to maximize profitability. While not a trait, this is an area where Simmental has also put a focus, in terms of recording/documenting of fullblood, purebred and hybrid genetics that help commercial industry meet breeding goals and fit their crossbreeding systems. Additionally, Simmental breeders participate in the largest multibreed but also the largest beef cattle evaluation in the world. The IGS evaluation accounts for heterosis and includes data from multiple breeds and a myriad of crosses. The result is an evaluation that can be directly applied to cross-breeding situations.
Expense
Calving Ease/Maternal Calving Ease
Stayability (Depreciation)
Docility
Feed Intake
Heifer Pregnancy
One of the most powerful tools available to the industry in pursuit of financial sustainability is the power of planned crossbreeding. Every major protein industry including pork, poultry and plants uses planned crossbreeding and the power of hybrid vigour to maximize profitability. While not a trait, this is an area where Simmental has also put a focus, in terms of recording/documenting of fullblood, purebred and hybrid genetics that help commercial industry meet breeding goals and fit their crossbreeding systems. Additionally, Simmental breeders participate in the largest multibreed but also the largest beef cattle evaluation in the world. The IGS evaluation accounts for heterosis and includes data from multiple breeds and a myriad of crosses. The result is an evaluation that can be directly applied to cross-breeding situations.
As we enter the New Year, it is a good time to think through what ERTs matter to me, and more importantly to my customers. It is also a good time to consider what you are doing to focus on and invest in those economically relevant traits? How do I keep my eye on the ball or in the infamous words of Wayne Gretzky, how do I “skate to where the puck is going”?
As we enter the New Year, it is a good time to think through what ERTs matter to me, and more importantly to my customers. It is also a good time to consider what you are doing to focus on and invest in those economically relevant traits? How do I keep my eye on the ball or in the infamous words of Wayne Gretzky, how do I “skate to where the puck is going”?
LFE 393M S: Hannibal DS:Riddler
LFE 828L S: Cabaret DS: Reserve Duty
LFE
301M S: Briggs DS:LFE 314Y
LFE 815L S: Redwood DS:Amber Jack
LFE 832L S: Walk The Line DS:LFE 3111E
SBV 510M S:Jackson DS: Yukon
SBV 529M S:First Look DS: Reputation
LFE 822L S: Cabaret DS: Cash
LFE 827L S:Cabaret DS: Dark Night
LFE 335M S:Briggs DS: Dreaming Red
LFE 332M S:Style DS: Game Night
TUESDAY FEBRUARY 25,
IPU
Visit our website: www.labattesimmentals.com for our sale bull preview with videos
Friday, Feb 28, 2025 1:00 p.m. at Johnstone Auction Mart, Moose Jaw, SK Guest Consignor: East Poplar Simmentals Kyron & Kelsey Manske, Coronach, SK 306-267-7530 east.poplar@hotmail.com www.eastpoplarsimmentals.com
Call or E-mail BARRY for Catalogues, up to date EPD’s or any questions on the bulls & heifers
Vet’s Advice CSA
By Roy Lewis, DVM
DOWNER COWS
Farmers and veterinarians since the beginning of time have pondered over the proverbial downer beef cow. This article will attempt to cover some of the causes and their modern-day treatments.
Typically, a downer cow surprises the farmer. It is often a perfectly healthy cow with no presenting history suddenly found down and unable to rise. Because cattle, especially mature ones, are such heavy beasts after being down even a short time several complications can ensue. Pressure sores, stiff muscles from trying to rise or cattle becoming spread-eagled are common sequelae. It is these complications which the veterinarian must also treat in order to arrive at a favourable outcome.
With the advent of lots of in-house blood testing now available at most veterinary clinics several tests may be performed on downer cattle to determine the cause. While “milk fever” is often implicated deficiencies of either calcium, phosphorus or magnesium can resemble one another greatly. With dairy cattle the true “milk fever” results from a shortage of calcium generally at parturition when the demand for milk and thus calcium is greatest. Beef cattle can have milk fevers show up at different times either before calving or late into the lactation. Often poor mineral utilization or improper feeding is the root cause. Veterinarians now will often take a blood sample so those three minerals can be tested for. If deficient, then the diagnosis is made and treatment is initiated to alleviate the situation. In my experience the grass tetany downer from magnesium deficiency is less likely to recover once down. Phosphorus leads to the proverbial “creeper” cow, which can take along time to get up. As with all these mineral deficiencies one must think these cases may be the tip of the iceberg. The rest of the herd should be closely scrutinized and some cows possibly randomly checked (blood tested) to confirm the herd status and prevent other cases from developing. With free choice minerals keep in mind some cattle simply don’t eat much minerals.
Injuries to the neck or peripheral nerves can cause downer animals and these can present as a great diagnostic challenge to your veterinarian. Once an animal is down, doing a thorough clinical exam can be difficult. Ambulation is better to check out severe lameness or trauma cases. A blown stifle (knee) or broken leg can present as a downer animal. It is important as a downer your veterinarian rolls the animal over and closely examines all four legs closely. Lightning strikes where the animal has survived damages, the peripheral nerves and a downer may be the end result.
With parturition a difficult birthing can cause pressure on the obturator nerves where they run through the pelvis resulting in knuckling and weakness to the hind end. If caught early enough anti-inflammatory drugs as recommended by your veterinarian may help significantly. One must be careful bad mastitis; metritis (infected uterus) or cases of tetanus brought on by retained placentas can fool even experienced practitioners. They can occur just after calving and if sick enough cows will be unable to rise simply because of weakness and toxemia. Any condition, which results in dehydration: septicemia or toxemia may result in downer animals. These may be sudden or occur over several days. If the cattle appear sick and depressed a large number of maladies will cause enough weakness or toxemia to cause a downer
situation. Severe electrolyte imbalances (as an example too much potassium (K) in the bloodstream) can cause cattle to go down. Again, most of these electrolytes can be tested for by your veterinarian to make sure the proper ailment is being treated.
Very excitable cattle if they get out and are run for a considerable period will go down subsequent to this because of the muscle damage it causes not unlike white muscle disease in young calves. This is called “capture myopathy” and happens when zoo animals are captured. Selenium may help but once down prognosis is poor.
You can see downers are caused by a multitude of medical conditions, most with entirely different treatments. With some: treatment results in a very favourable prognosis others offer a poor prognosis. The important thing is getting them looked at immediately by your veterinarian to determine the cause. In the meantime provide soft footing to prevent pressure sores developing. Roll the downers side to side several times daily to help prevent further nerve damage. Hobbling the feet together to avoid splay legging and where indicated anti-inflammatory drugs may also be in order. Of course the essentials of life good quality water and feed must be provided. Shade on very hot days is essential. Watch for fly strike around the rectal and vaginal areas.
Some cases such as broken legs or stifle injuries may warrant emergency slaughter so do not rush in and treat unless the exact cause is known. The transport of large downers is really frowned upon from an animal rights issue so best to emergency slaughter right on site. We see some downers from very thin cows late in pregnancy carrying twins. The increasing weight of a large calf or twins and cows can get thin enough they are simply unable to rise. Hopefully, the cow was close enough to calving and calves or could potentially be induced to alleviate the cow of all that weight and drain on her nutritionally. Each decision with these downer cows becomes a decision and plan with your veterinarian to arrive at the best outcome. If medical care is given it is best to get them on a well bedded area that has traction and gives them the best chance at getting up.
Hip lifters and slings can be employed to lift cattle but I only suggest this if certain criteria are met. Cattle must be trying to rise and when lifted must bear some weight themselves. If just hanging there is no point in lifting. Only lift for 15 to 20 minutes twice daily. The hiplifters also cause muscle bruising so you want the benefits to outweigh the negatives. Certain practitioners are having some success with acupuncture for the nerve-damaged cases.
I am hopeful this article has lessened the frustration and mystique associated with dealing with downer cattle. Patience is a virtue and if in doubt get the downer checked by your veterinarian, as it could be one of a number of maladies that must be ruled out.
LHVS Big Tease 105L
4 PM MST
MONDAY , MARCH 3RD , 2025
DAWSON CREEK
EXHIBITION CATTLE BARN, BC
BRISKET SUPPER & SOCIAL
Following Sale
ViewingAvailableAll Day Sunday,March 2,2025
YEARLING PUREBRED AND FULLBLOOD SIMMENTAL BULLS REDS, BLACKS & BLAZE FACE
Versatile Bulls bred and raised in the North & developed to perform in any herd!
While Turner McMillen loves the ranch life, the 21-year-old forward currently playing for the University of Regina Cougars says he wants to see where his hockey career goes over the next few years before joining the beef business full time.
Turner, who has been playing hockey ever since he first put on skates at about age 4, says he is in enviable position.
“I love hockey so once university is done I’ll look to see if there are some opportunities to play professionally perhaps in Europe or the U.S.” he says.
“But I love ranching too, so when the time is right I also hope to join the family ranching operation one day.”
Turner is part of the fifth generation on the family owned McMillen Ranching Ltd. which is headquarter at Carievale, in the southeast corner of Saskatchewan not far from the Manitoba and North Dakota borders.
The place was homesteaded by Turner’s, great, great grandfather, with his grandparents Jim and Georgette McMillen establishing a purebred Simmental herd more than 50 years ago. They are joined in the operation by their two sons, Dave and wife Christine and Lee and wife Erin and their families.
Today McMillen Ranching Ltd. runs a purebred herd of about 800 head of predominately Red and Black Simmental cattle, along with a herd of Red and Black Angus cattle as well.
Turner is the youngest of four children in the Dave and Christine McMillen household. His sisters Shandi and Kaley are married and raising their families, while his brother Kade, a hockey player as well, is in his final year of studies at Trinity Western University in Langley, B.C. Hockey is part of the family fabric. Their dad Dave played in the Western Hockey League for many years, wearing the captain’s patch on his jerseys for several seasons.
While Turner is only 21, he’s been playing hockey for the better part of 17 years, moving through several age divisions and honing his skills on a number of teams in several communities in Saskatchewan and B.C. along the way.
“I started playing hockey when I was 4,” says Turner. He started out playing in nearby Carnduff in the six year and under category for two years, and then one year of novice when he was 6.
He along with three other Carievale kids combined with some kids in Oxbow to play in the Atom division. That team registered with the Saskatchewan Hockey Association (SHA) as the Carievale/Oxbow Huskies, which was the first team in Carievale to register with SHA in a number of years.
He played in the Atom division for three years, winning two league banners for Carievale Rink. He also won the league banner with the Novice team in Carnduff. Carievale minor hockey has been registering teams since. It’s a small community but the village has been able to install artificial ice at the local rink. Along with minor hockey, Turner played many spring seasons with the ManSask Wolfpack, Southsask Selects and played with Team Sask for the prestigious Brick Tournament at West Edmonton Mall.
“I just loved playing hockey and looked for opportunities to improve my game,” he says.
After the Atom division, next stop was to Estevan playing in the Peewee and Bantam divisions of AA (tier 2) hockey. That also involved a big commitment of family time, as he had to travel an hour and 15 minutes each way to and from Estevan twice a week for practice and then travel all over Saskatchewan for games.
He was also involved in the local 4-H beef clubs for a number of years, but left that behind at age 14 as hockey commitments increased.
Turner was a natural at the sport leading him at age 15 to be scouted and then drafted by the Kelowna Rockets of the Western Hockey League. “It was pretty neat playing in Kelowna for the Rockets,” he says. “ My dad at one time played for the Tacoma Rockets (Washington State) before the team moved to Kelowna. It was neat playing for the same organization that he did.”
Later he moved to Prince Albert and played for the Prince Albert Mintos, U18 AAA hockey league.
His second season with the Mintos, after they were eliminated in the first round of playoffs, he was called up to the Estevan Bruins as an Affiliate Player.
He skated with the Bruins for a couple of days before getting a call one day at 10 p.m from the Kelowna Rockets GM, Bruce Hamilton, telling him he was getting called up with the Rockets and that his flight was booked for the next day at 1 p.m. On the way to the airport that day, Bruce called to tell him to turn around and to keep it quiet, but all hockey leagues were shutting down due to COVID 19 pandemic
The following season he started with the new U18 AAA Estevan Bears while he waited for the WHL to start up. They only got a few games in before the league shut down for the season. In March 2021, he played with the Kelowna Rockets in the ‘Bubble’ (a time of restricted movement by players during the pandemic).
He was back with the Kelowna Rockets for two seasons, before being released due to age restrictions after he turned 20. The CHL has a rule that each team can have no more than three 20-year-olds on the roster.
After being released by Kelowna in mid October 2023, Turner joined the Estevan Bruins of the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League for a couple months. “I was home in December for Christmas break last year helping with heifer sale at the ranch and I got a call to go play for the Prince Albert Raiders in the WHL,” says Turner. “So I finished out the 2023/2024 season in Prince Albert.”
This past August as he enrolled at the University of Regina, pursuing a degree in business administration, he joined U of R Cougars hockey team of the USports League. That is the same league his brother plays for as a defenceman for the Trinity Western Spartans, so they will be meeting up in games over the coming season.
“Hockey has just been a big part of my life since I was a little kid,” says Turner. “And I really haven’t tried any other sports or had much time for anything else.”
It wasn’t until the COVID break starting in April 2020 that gave him an extended period to connect with the ranch.
“That year I was 17 and had five or six months just be at home and help out with the cattle,” says Turner. “And I loved being there, working with my dad, helping out with summer calving, and AI work during breeding season and just working around the cattle. I love hockey, but I also love being on the ranch as well.” He enjoys working with Simmental cattle. “They are good looking performance cattle, easy to handle, and have great maternal traits” he says.
To better manage a large herd and to offer two-year-old bulls for their customers, McMillen Ranching has two calving seasons. About 400 head calve out during the winter — January and February, with another 350 head calving out on grass starting in May. The top bull calves are selected to be raised as breeding animals, while anything that doesn’t make the cut are raised as steers, backgrounded and finished on the farm. They also select about 250 female calves to be raised as replacement heifers.
With their annual bull sale held at the ranch the first Saturday of March, 2024 marked the 30th annual yearling and twoyear-old bull sale at McMillen Ranching Ltd.
“As I have pursued my hockey career, I have missed out on a lot of the daily activities around the ranch,” says Turner. “Most years I’m home between April and mid-August so I am here for summer calving and helping with some of the haying operation, but I have missed out on a lot. I do love being on the ranch and want to be here as much as I can.” That’s part of the reason he chose the University of Regina. It’s a good school but he can also be a bit closer to home.
Turner says being around the ranch and pursuing a hockey career have taught him some important life skills.
“First of all you learn the importance of hard work, having a work ethic,” he says. “Whether, I am on the ranch or playing hockey you have to work hard and do your best.”
“I also learned that whatever you are doing, if you’re not having a great day, if things aren’t going your way, you just push through and don’t mope around. If you’re on the farm and machinery breaks down, or cattle get into the wrong pasture, there’s no point getting all worked up you just push through. The same with hockey, if your not having a great game, you push through, regroup and do your best the next time.
“I’m also learning social and communication skills. I may have to do a media interview after a game or talk to some of the team management and back on the ranch you learn to spend time talking with customers whether it be about the cattle or how crops are doing. You learn how to carry on a conversation.”
Turner says he is hoping his hockey career carries on for a few more years after university but time will tell. In the meantime he is looking forward to the hockey season on the university team, as well as studies in business administration. “I love working with cattle, but I know that having an understanding of finances and the business side will no doubt be useful on the ranch some day,” he says.
RED DEER COUNTY BULL SALE
APPLECROSS CATTLE
Dennis & Jeanne Small
Red Deer County, AB
Dennis Phone: 403-728-3528
Dennis Cell: 587-876-7120
CHESTERMERE STOCK FARM
The Bricker Family
Didsbury, AB
Ross: 403-815-9038
Alexa: 403-586-8572
DALLAS FARMS
Brad & Kathy Dallas & Family Bowden, AB
Brad: 403-224-2162
DOUBLE Q SIMMENTALS
Dane & Whitney Quartly & Family
Red Deer County, AB
Dane: 403-391-0272
E&L RANCHING
Eric & Louise Falk
Red Deer County, AB
Eric: 403-391-2259
EAGLE VALLEY FARMS
The Krugers- Greg, Alison, Charlie, Timber Sundre AB
Greg: 403-638-7909
J-BAR SIMMENTALS
Jayden Warren
Caroline, AB Jayden: 403-307-4330 or 403-844-9112
KEATO MEADOW SIMMENTALS
Jonathan, Ebony and Noah Kittlitz Ft. Sask, AB
Jonathan Cell: 780-920-7589
KRK CATTLE CO
Korbin Katona
Caroline, AB Korbin: 403-418-7389
OH KAY FARMS
Brian & Corinne Lougheed
Wilson, Lindsey, Bryson and Daylin Lougheed
Red Deer County, AB
Wilson: 403-396-1577
Brian: 403-347-9888
RED TOP LIVESTOCK
Ben & Kassandra Farrant
Lousana, AB
Ben: 403-896-4331
Du Poste De Porte
Par Bruce Homlquist
Directeur général - Association Simmental du Canada
Simmental –C’est le temps d’être avec nous !
Les vêlages 2025 sont maintenant bien avancés chez les éleveurs Simmental et les décisions d’élevage prises l’an passé se concrétisent à chaque visite à l’étable de vêlage. C’est toujours un moment passionnant pour constater si nos décisions d’accouplement prises il y a plus de neuf mois ont payé des dividendes. Les catalogues de vente de taureaux commencent à circuler, et beaucoup d’éleveurs sont soulagés d’avoir terminé le processus de préparation de ces catalogues.
L’année 2024 s’est terminée avec des ventes de femelles très réussies et qui ont été parmi les meilleures de toutes les ventes de sujets de race pure. Cette situation s’est accompagnée de prix record pour toutes les catégories de bovins commerciaux, et particulièrement pour les femelles d’élevage gestantes. Il semble y avoir un regain d’optimisme dans le secteur qui, espérons-le, mènera à la rétention de génisses de remplacement et à l’expansion du cheptel de vaches de boucherie commerciales. De nombreux nouveaux éleveurs ont rejoint la communauté Simmental avec leurs premiers achats, ainsi que d’autres exploitations qui ont ajouté des femelles pour améliorer ou agrandir leurs troupeaux existants. Il y a eu aussi des ventes de dispersion très réussies et même s’il est toujours triste de voir certains éleveurs et leurs amis passer aux chapitres suivants de leur vie, c’est inévitable et, à l’avenir, nous aurons encore la chance d’avoir leur génétique présente dans la race Simmental.
L’année 2025 s’annonce être une autre année chargée et passionnante pour la race Simmental au Canada. La qualité des taureaux offerts dans les ventes est meilleure que jamais auparavant et cela dans chaque segment de la race. Aucune autre race n’offre une gamme aussi large d’options génétiques que la race Simmental. Rappelez-vous que si un animal n’est pas enregistré auprès de l’ASC au moment de la vente, vous n’avez alors aucune information concernant son pedigree et son potentiel génétique.
L’Association Simmental du Canada est heureuse de vous présenter deux nouveaux visages au sein de son équipe, soit Jennifer Scott qui se joint à nous en tant que coordonnatrice de l’Association des jeunes éleveurs Simmental et Dwayne Martin qui est notre nouveau représentant des ventes pour la revue Simmental Country et qui fait partie de notre équipe canadienne Simmental des services à l’industrie. Ces deux personnes ont de l’expérience et comprennent bien l’industrie canadienne du bœuf, et ils constitueront des atouts solides pour nos membres.
Certains des événements organisés pour les membres de l’ASC en 2025 incluent notamment le déplacement de la conférence sur le leadership (“ T.E.A.M”) des jeunes éleveurs Simmental vers l’est du Canada et cela à Guelph en mai prochain. Par la suite, nous tiendrons le congrès de l’ASC en 2025 à Weyburn en Saskatchewan. L’Association Simmental de la Saskatchewan travaille fort à planifier un horaire intéressant pour accueillir les éleveurs Simmental et d’autres partenaires de l’industrie. Le programme d’activités comprendra l’assemblée générale annuelle de l’ASC, la vente aux enchères de la Fondation canadienne des amis de la race Simmental et la Classique nationale de l’Association des jeunes éleveurs Simmental du Canada.
Plus tard à l’automne, il y aura de nouveau de nombreuses expositions et des jugements d’animaux qui auront lieu partout au Canada et qui feront partie des principaux événements du programme des Prix d’excellence de l’ASC. Ce programme présente les gagnants des jugements de diverses expositions dans chaque province et il est toujours passionnant de suivre les différents jugements qui mènent à la finale au “Canadian Western Agribition.”
L’année 2025 sera très chargée, alors n’oubliez pas de consulter pour plus d’informations le calendrier des événements dans le Simmental Country et les nouvelles électroniques de l’ASC.
Bon succès en 2025 avec votre élevage et souhaitons que l’herbe des pâturages vous arrive à la hauteur du ventre !
HAvoc
Amelioration De la race
Par Sean McGrath
Coordonnateur des programmes d’amélioration de la race, Association Simmental du Canada
DONNÉES ET FACTEURS DE PROFIT
Gardez un œil sur la balle
dernières années, la race Simmental a bénéficié d’un énorme soutien de l'industrie
commerciale. Ce succès est le résultat d'efforts mis sur certains aspects essentiels qui comptent pour l’industrie et les consommateurs en bout de ligne. Une façon de penser à ces aspects fondamentaux et qui est soutenue par la Fédération d’amélioration du bœuf ("BIF") est le concept d’un caractère d'importance économique ("economically relevant trait ou ERT" en anglais). Pour qu’une race considère un caractère comme important, il doit offrir un rendement économique et ne pas être influencé par le fait de choisir des choses ayant un impact sur l’économie des clients.
Au cours des dernières années, la race Simmental a bénéficié d’un énorme soutien de l’industrie bovine commerciale. Ce succès est le résultat d’efforts mis sur certains aspects essentiels qui comptent pour l’industrie et les consommateurs en bout de ligne. Une façon de penser à ces aspects fondamentaux et qui est soutenue par la Fédération d’amélioration du bœuf (“BIF”) est le concept d’un caractère d’importance économique (“economically relevant trait ou ERT” en anglais). Pour qu’une race considère un caractère comme important, il doit offrir un rendement économique et ne pas être influencé par le fait de choisir des choses ayant un impact sur l’économie des clients.
Si nous examinons les outils que les éleveurs Simmental ont rendu disponibles et qui permettent de progresser, nous constatons une emphase claire vers les caractères d'importance économique (CIE) Le premier exemple, facile à comprendre, est la facilité de vêlage. La facilité de vêlage est un CIE, car elle entraîne des conséquences sur le travail au moment du vêlage, du succès de la reproduction ultérieure et de la survie du veau. La tendance génétique de la facilité de vêlage ("CE") montre une tendance positive pour la race au cours des dernières décennies. Si nous repensons aux bovins Simmental de la fin des années 1990 et d’avant, il serait difficile de soutenir que nous n’avons pas fait d’améliorations significatives dans ce domaine important.
Si nous examinons les outils que les éleveurs Simmental ont rendu disponibles et qui permettent de progresser, nous constatons une emphase claire vers les caractères d’importance économique (CIE). Le premier exemple, facile à comprendre, est la facilité de vêlage. La facilité de vêlage est un CIE, car elle entraîne des conséquences sur le travail au moment du vêlage, du succès de la reproduction ultérieure et de la survie du veau. La tendance génétique de la facilité de vêlage (“CE”) montre une tendance positive pour la race au cours des dernières décennies. Si nous repensons aux bovins Simmental de la fin des années 1990 et d’avant, il serait difficile de soutenir que nous n’avons pas fait d’améliorations significatives dans ce domaine important.
Un autre domaine important sur lequel on s’est concentré est l’influence maternelle et la fertilité. Dans les systèmes conventionnels de production de bœuf, il a été démontré que la reproduction a beaucoup plus d’impact sur la rentabilité globale que la croissance. Une des premières mesures mises en œuvre par les éleveurs Simmental a été la mise en place de l’enrôlement du troupeau complet et la cueillette d’informations sur la reproduction et la réforme des vaches. Cette situation est encore renforcée par la production d’un EPD sur la longévité pour évaluer le mérite génétique additif en matière de longévité. Il s’agit d’un CIE très puissant, car la dépréciation de la valeur des vaches est l’un des coûts les plus importants pour les producteurs vaches-veaux.
Figure 1. Tendance génétique 2009-2024 pour la facilité de vêlage des Simmental au Canada Un autre domaine important sur lequel on s’est concentré est l’influence maternelle et la fertilité. Dans les systèmes conventionnels de production de bœuf, il a été démontré que la reproduction a beaucoup plus d’impact sur la rentabilité globale que la croissance. Une des premières mesures mises en œuvre par les éleveurs Simmental a été la mise en place de l'enrôlement du troupeau complet et la cueillette d’informations sur la reproduction et la réforme des vaches. Cette situation est encore renforcée par la production d’un EPD sur la longévité pour évaluer le mérite génétique
additif en matière de longévité. Il s’agit d’un CIE très puissant, car la dépréciation de la valeur des vaches est l’un des coûts les plus importants pour les producteurs vaches-veaux.
Les caractéristiques liées à la croissance et aux carcasses sont également des indicateurs de revenu, et la race Simmental a mis au point des programmes pour encourager la cueillette de données avec les ultrasons, ainsi que la participation à l’évaluation génétique des caractères de croissance et de carcasse. Au cours des trente dernières années, la race a fait des progrès importants notamment en ce qui concerne le persillage. Cela a été extrêmement important par rapport aux systèmes de classement modernes pour maintenir la pertinence de la race Simmental et la valeur des carcasses commercialisées.
Les caractéristiques liées à la croissance et aux carcasses sont également des indicateurs de revenu, et la race Simmental a mis au point des programmes pour encourager la cueillette de données avec les ultrasons, ainsi que la participation à l’évaluation génétique des caractères de croissance et de carcasse. Au cours des trente dernières années, la race a fait des progrès importants notamment en ce qui concerne le persillage. Cela a été extrêmement important par rapport aux systèmes de classement modernes pour maintenir la pertinence de la race Simmental et la valeur des carcasses commercialisées.
Bien que ce ne soit pas une liste exhaustive, d’autres exemples de CIE (“ERT”) sont des éléments tels que la stature à maturité et l’ingestion d’aliments. Ce sont des domaines sur lesquels la race Simmental continue de se concentrer grâce aux efforts déployés par les membres en matière de cueillette de données et de leur partenariat avec le centre IGS pour l’élaboration de nouveaux caractères.
Bien que ce ne soit pas une liste exhaustive, d'autres exemples de CIE ("ERT") sont des éléments tels que la stature à maturité et l’ingestion d'aliments. Ce sont des domaines sur lesquels la race Simmental continue de se concentrer grâce aux efforts déployés par les membres en matière de cueillette de données et de leur partenariat avec le centre IGS pour l’élaboration de nouveaux caractères.
Exemples de caractères d’importance économique
Revenus
Poids au sevrage
Gain post-sevrage
Dépenses
Facilité de vêlage/ Facilité de vêlage maternelle
Longévité (Dépréciation)
Poids de la carcasse Docilité
Persillage Ingestion d’aliments
Gras / SOL (rendement) Taux de gestation des génisses
Stature à maturité (valeur de la réforme)
L’un des outils les plus puissants dont dispose l’industrie bovine pour assurer la viabilité financière est le potentiel du recours aux croisements. Tous les maillons importants de la production de protéine, y compris le porc, la volaille et les plantes, utilisent des croisements planifiés et la pouvoir de la vigueur hybride pour maximiser leur rentabilité. Bien que ce ne soit pas un caractère, c’est un domaine sur lequel la race Simmental a également mis l’accent, en termes d’enregistrement/validation de la génétique “Fullblood”, pur-sang et croisée qui aide l’industrie commerciale à atteindre leurs objectifs de sélection et à adapter leurs systèmes de croisement. De plus, les éleveurs Simmental participent à la plus grande évaluation génétique multi races qui soit pour les bovins de boucherie au monde. L’évaluation effectuée par le centre IGS tient compte de l’hétérose et comprend des données provenant de plusieurs races et d’une myriade de croisements. Le résultat est une évaluation qui peut être directement appliquée aux situations pratiques de croisement.
L’un des outils les plus puissants dont dispose l'industrie bovine pour assurer la viabilité financière est le potentiel du recours aux croisements. Tous les maillons importants de la production de protéine, y compris le porc, la volaille et les plantes, utilisent des croisements planifiés et la pouvoir de la vigueur hybride pour maximiser leur rentabilité. Bien que ce ne soit pas un caractère, c’est un domaine sur lequel la race Simmental a également mis l’accent, en termes d’enregistrement/validation de la génétique "Fullblood", pur-sang et croisée qui aide l’industrie commerciale à atteindre leurs objectifs de sélection et à adapter leurs systèmes de croisement. De plus, les éleveurs Simmental participent à la plus grande évaluation génétique multi races qui soit pour les bovins de boucherie au monde L’évaluation effectuée par le centre IGS tient compte de l’hétérose et comprend des données provenant de plusieurs races et d’une myriade de croisements. Le résultat est une évaluation qui peut être directement appliquée aux situations pratiques de croisement.
Alors que nous sommes au début de la nouvelle année, c’est le bon moment pour réfléchir aux CIE (“ERT”) qui comptent pour moi et surtout pour mes clients. C’est également le bon temps de réfléchir à ce que vous faites pour orienter vos efforts et investir au niveau de vos caractères d’importance économique. Comment puis-je garder un œil sur la balle ou, pour reprendre une célèbre expression de Wayne Gretzky, comment puis-je « patiner dans la direction de la rondelle » ?
Alors que nous sommes au début de la nouvelle année, c’est le bon moment pour réfléchir aux CIE ("ERT") qui comptent pour moi et surtout pour mes clients. C'est également le bon temps de réfléchir à ce que vous faites pour orienter vos efforts et investir au niveau de vos caractères d'importance économique. Comment puis-je garder un œil sur la balle ou, pour reprendre une célèbre expression de Wayne Gretzky, comment puis-je « patiner dans la direction de la rondelle » ?
Gardez un œil sur la balle
Au cours des
bovine
Big Hills Simmentals Bull Sale
MARCH 3 12TH ANNUAL SPRING SELECT SIMMENTAL BULL SALE
FALLEN TIMBER FARMS & POLAR FARMS - DAWSON CREEK, BC
MARCH 10 12TH ANNUAL NORTH COUNTRY RANCHLAND BULL SALE
CRYSTAL SPRINGS RANCH & ROSEFIELD SIMMENTALS - DAWSON CREEK, BC
MARCH 12 KT RANCHES 6TH ANNUAL BULL SALE CHERRYVILLE, BC
MARCH 22 COUNTRY ROOTS 3RD ANNUAL BULL & FEMALE SALE LA RANCH & BAR M SIMMENTALS - VANDERHOOF, BC
APRIL 5 BEST BET 18TH ANNUAL BULL SALE MITCHELL CATTLE CO. - WILLIAMS LAKE, BC
APRIL 12 VANDERHOOF ALL BREEDS BULL SALE VANDERHOOF, BC
APRIL 17 WILLIAMS LAKE BULL SALE WILLIAMS LAKE, BC
PICTURED ABOVE: BRYDEE BRADY CHAMPION FEMALE AT 2024 PNE FAIR
PICTURED RIGHT: KELTY BRADY RESERVE CHAMPION FEMALE AT COUNTRY FEST 2024
To all those who exhibited and promoted Simmentals in BC this past year!
MARCH SALES
MARCH 1 Mappin Silversmith 20th Anniversary Simmental Bull Sale - Byemoor, AB
MARCH 2 The Associates Bull Sale - DLMS Farm Gate
MARCH 3 Black Chrome Livestock Online Bull Sale - DLMS Farm Gate
MARCH 3 Harvie Crest Bull Sale - Olds, AB
MARCH 3 Greenvalley Ranch Online Bull Sale - DLMS Farm Gate
MARCH 4 Johnson Ranching 12th Annual Bull Sale - Provost, AB
MARCH 5 Place Your Bet Bull Sale - Camrose, AB
MARCH 5 21st Annual Swantewitt & Sage Simmentals Bull & Heifer Sale - Shiningbank Lake, AB
MARCH 6 Deeg Simmentals 22nd Annual Bull & Female Sale - Strathmore, AB
MARCH 6 Transcon’s 7th Annual Next Step Simmental Bull Sale - Thorsby, AB
MARCH 7 Northern Classic 22nd Annual Charolais & Simmental Bull Sale - Grande Prairie, AB
MARCH 8 Transcon’s Red Deer County Bull Sale - Innisfail, AB
MARCH 17 Highway 21 Group Charolais & Simm/Angus Bull Sale - Hanna, AB
MARCH 20 Janzen Ranches 32nd Annual Simmental & Red Angus Bull Sale - Rosemary, AB
MARCH 22 Leewood Ranch 9th Annual Bull & Heifer Sale - Mannville, AB
MARCH 26 Camden Cattle Co 13th Annual Simmental Bull & Heifer Sale with Guest Niwa Ranching Co. - New Brigden, AB
APRIL SALES
APRIL 1 Transcon’s Northern Connection Simmental & Charolais Bull Sale - St Paul, AB
APRIL 4 Transcon’s Peace Country Simmental Bull Sale - Beaverlodge, AB
APRIL 9 W Sunrise Angus & Simmental Bull Sale - Fort McLeod, AB
APRIL 17 Shady Nook Simmentals Bull Sale - Lacombe, AB
2024 KEYSTONE SIMMENTAL ASSOCIATION COMMERCIAL BREEDER OF THE YEAR
Glen Abbey Farm Ian & Carol Marshall, Glenboro, MB
February 12-13 2025
MSA ONLINE FUNDRAISING AUCTION HELD ON FARMGATETIMEDAUCTIONS.CA
MANITOBA SIMMENTAL BULL SALES
February
12th STEPPLER FARMS ANNUAL BULL SALE, Miami, MB
19th M&J / GLASMAN FARMS SIMMENTAL & ANGUS 2 YEAR OLD BULL SALE, Russell, MB
21st SUNVILLE SIMMENTALS 9TH ANNUAL BULL SALE, McCreary MB
29th MANITOBA BULL TEST STATION BULL & FEMALE SALE, Douglas MB
April
5th 57TH ANNUAL LUNDAR ALL BREEDS BEEF CATTLE SALE, Lundar, MB
11th BIG HILLS SIMMENTALS & GUESTS BULL SALE FRIDAY, Brandon, MB
2024 SSA Purebred Breeder of the Year! KUNTZ SIMMENTAL FARM
Kuntz Simmental Farm is a mixed family farm located south west of Battleford and consists of 120 Full Fleckvieh, Fullblood and purebred Simmental cows alongside approximately 7500 acres of cropland. It is owned and operated by the three Kuntz brothers; Trevor and his wife Brydie and three kids Ty, Brayden and Sara; Brad and his wife Joelle and son Bentley; and Geoff Kuntz. Their father Larry, now retired, is still around the farm and helps out where he can and makes sure that everybody gets feed at lunch time
Simmental bulls were introduced into their commercial cowherd through the late 80’s and early 90’s and the first purebred females were purchased in 1996. The commercial herd was slowly fazed out and the purebred herd grew to what it is today.
Their goal is to produce high performing cattle with strong maternal traits. They take pride in their cowherd and the cow families they have developed over the years. These cows have raised several bulls that have gone on to be notable bulls within the Simmental breed and they are the backbone to their bull sale. The Kuntz’s have been selling a select group of these females annually at the Border City Simmental Sale in December.
In the late 90’s and early 2000’s Kuntz Simmental Farm exhibited cattle at Lloydminster Stockade, Saskatoon Fall Fair, Prince Albert Ex and Agribition where they took home many banners. But the most meaningful banners to them were the ones they accumulated at the “People’s Choice” Bull Show at Agribition.
In the early years, they consigned bulls to the Pride of the Prairies Bull Sale in Lloydminster and the Spiritwood Bull Sale. After several years of that, Campbell Simmentals and Stoughton Farms invited them to join their annual bull, an opportunity they truly grateful for. As Campbell’s and Stoughton’s dispersed their herds, Diamond J Simmentals, McIntosh Livestock, and SAJ Simmentals were added to the bull sale to maintain numbers and quality. The Kuntz’s are very proud of what is now the Kuntz/ McIntosh/SAJ Bull Sale and they are grateful for the partnership they have formed with Blair and Stephanie and Stuart.
2024 SSA Purebred Breeder of the Year
SSA President Blaine Barnett presenting the farm sign to Trevor, Sarah, Brydie, Ty and Brayden Kuntz (l-r)
The Kuntz family extends a heartfelt thank you to their valued customers for their continued support over the past 25 plus years and to the Saskatchewan Simmental Association for recognizing them with this honour.
SSA Scholarship Recipients
Congratulations to the 2024-25 Scholarship Recipients!
First Year Recipients
Porter Wolkowski
Sasha Mantei
Seth McIntosh
McKenna Baxter
Second Year Recipients
Shelby Woytiuk
Kade McMillen
Sydney McCormack
Simmental Breeder’s Sweepstakes Draw Winners!
1) $10,000 Sale Credit to any nominated farm! Downhill Simmentals
2) $1,500 Flush Package - including cost of drugs/procedure and up to 5 implants... Bovatech Ltd. - Siroski Simmentals
17) 5L Jug of Ivomec... Boerhinger - Section 17 Livestock
18) 5L Jug of Ivomec... Boerhinger - Grona Farms
19) 60lb Smartlic Flaxlic Tub... Bar Over HC Livestock - Moose Valley Ranch
20) $100 Gift Card... Flat Top Cattle Co. - Big Ker Simmentals
21) 1 Chop Pail of Popcorn... Sniders Kettle Corn - GR Simmentals
22) Knife Set... Riskan Hope Farm - Bill Peters
23) 1 Bag of ShurGain Feed... Chapman Feeds - Debbie Darmokid
24) 1 Bag of ShurGain Feed... Chapman Feeds - Lazy Bar B Simmentals
Thank you to our Generous Sponsors!
Breeder’s Sweepstakes Nominated Breeder’s
Downhill Simmentals has $10,000 to spend at any of the Breeder’s listed below!
Ashworth Farm & Ranch
Black Gold Simmental
Boundary Ranch
City View Simmentals
Crossroad Farms
DK Land & Cattle
Downhill Simmentals
East Poplar Simmentals
Erixon Simmentals Inc
Flying W Stock Farm
Grona Farms
Horner Cattle Co
Kuntz Simmental Farm
Labatte Simmentals
Mader Ranches
McIntosh Livestock
Millington Ranch
Northern Lights Simmental
Pheasantdale Cattle Co
Scherger Ranching
Scissors Creek Cattle Co
Section 17 Livestock
Siroski Simmentals
Southpaw Cattle Co
Sunny Valley Simmental
Timm Cattle Co
Townview Farms
Wheatland Cattle Co
UPCOMING BULL SALES / VENTES DE TAUREAUX À VENIR
Rod & Stars Simmental Bull Sale - February 8th / 8 Février - DLMS FarmGate Auction
STATION GENETIQUE DE LA BEAUCE - February 15th / 15 février - Saint-Martin, QC
Select Bull Sale - February 22th / 22 février - Shawinigan, QC
Ferme Gagnon Inc. 25th Annual Bull Sale - March 2ND / 2 mars - Cheneville, QC
Synergie 14th Annual Bull Sale - March 8th / 8 mars - Sainte-Sophie de Lérvard, QC
Every purchase of a purebred Simmental bull from a QSA member, will give you a chance to win 1 of 2 $100 Credits to be used on a future purchase of a bull or female in QC
Chaque achat d’un taureau Simmental pure race auprès d’un membre QSA, vous donnera la chance de gagner 1 des 2 crédits de 100$ à utiliser sur un prochain achat d’un taureau ou d’une femelle au Québec.
CONTACT US / CONTACTEZ-NOUS
PRÉSIDENT - PAT SULLIVAN 819-334-2409 VICE PRÉSIDENT - STACY YONG 780-718-0622
EMAIL / COURRIEL - ASQ-QSA@OUTLOOK.COM
CSA does a monthly E-Newsletter
- On the first Thursday of every month we send out the most relevant happenings of the CSA, YCSA, Simmental Country and the Foundation
- If you are not receiving the monthly e-news and would like to be added contact cansim@simmental.com
- A great way to promote your upcoming events and sales
- Gets sent to over 4000 email accounts
- Contact sgiles@simmental.com to book your
Cody Carson with Cherry Creek Troubadour
London Matthews with GLL Aerosmith 405M
Kade Rancier with RF Scream 3134
Gracie Bohrson with Erixon Darlin 2.0
Will Bradford with Bar 17 Lady Blossom 229
Brooklynn Boulter with Boss Lake Remedy
Stella Mader with Mader Sugar 49L
Date: October 6, 2024
Location: Olds Alberta
Judge: Vern & Riley Lafrentz
GRAND CHAMPION FEMALE
BLACK GOLD MS HAYLEIGH 213K
SIRE EC REBEL 156F
DAM KDP MISS HOYA HAYLEIGH
OWNER BLACK GOLD SIMMENTALS
GRAND CHAMPION BULL
TY-D/DAS CA$H 111K
SIRE SVS DYNASTY 915G
DAM TYD/JK/NJAA ROYALTY 14G
OWNER TY-D LIVESTOCK, DARLENE SCRIBER
RESERVE CHAMPION FEMALE
BOSS LAKE MS ELLE 334L
SIRE WS PILGRIM H182U
DAM BOSS LAKE MISS ELLE 638D
OWNER BOSS LAKE GENETICS
RESERVE CHAMPION BULL
MADER RUSTY CAGE 11M
MADER WALK THE LINE 92J
DAM MADER JULIET 13H
OWNER MADER RANCHES
SIRE
Date: October 12, 2024
Location: Victoriaville, Quebec
Judge: Blair and Melissa McRae
GRAND CHAMPION FEMALE KEYSTONE FINESSE 34K
SIRE OMF EPIC E27
DAM KEYSTONE ELEGANCE 1G
OWNER SCOTT / EMILY MATTHEWS
GRAND CHAMPION BULL WKF BURN IT DOWN 130M
SIRE SVS RANCHER 42H
DAM WKF FLIRT 24J
OWNER WINDYKNOLL FARM
Date: October 19-21, 2023
Location: Stettler, Alberta
Judges: Ken Lewis, Stephen Johnson, and Tyler Libke
GRAND CHAMPION FEMALE NUG FLIRTY 205M
SIRE RF SHAKEDOWN 074H
DAM RF CERTAINLY FLIRTIN 625D
OWNER MAXWELL SIMMENTAL
RESERVE CHAMPION FEMALE MAF SEANNA 129J
SIRE RF CAPACITY 742E
DAM MAF SEANNA 48C
OWNER SOUTH BRISTOL CATTLE CO
RESERVE CHAMPION BULL FTA GOLD RUSH 24L
SIRE RUGGED R BORDEAUX 0029H
DAM ELM TREE RHONDA 33F
OWNER MCCAIG LIVESTOCK
SUPREME CHAMPION BULL BLACK GOLD/LINDGREN CABARET 7M
SIRE LFE CABARET 847J
DAM BLACK GOLD MS SODA 52J
OWNER BLACK GOLD SIMMENTALS
Date: October 25, 2024
Location: Brandon, Manitoba
Judge: Dave Durie
GRAND CHAMPION FEMALE
MCINTOSH LADY 50K
SIRE TNT BOOTLEGGER Z268
DAM ERIXON LADY 79E
OWNER HORNER CATTLE COMPANY
GRAND CHAMPION BULL
DOUBLE BAR D LINCHPIN 431K
SIRE KWA LAW MAKER 59C
DAM DEEG MS ZENA 69G
OWNER DOUBLE BAR D FARMS
RESERVE CHAMPION FEMALE
HFL BRETTA 2039K
SIRE IPU BENTLEY 81F
DAM DOUBLE BAR D BRETTA 461H
OWNER HORNER CATTLE COMPANY
RESERVE CHAMPION BULL HFL LONGVIEW LONGSHOT ET 4074M
SIRE LFE STRATTON 3094F
DAM HFL ROSE 1035J
OWNER HORNER CATTLE COMPANY
Date: November 1, 2024
Location: Lloydminster, Alberta
Judge: Chad Wilson
GRAND CHAMPION FEMALE
BLACK GOLD MS HAYLEIGH 213K
SIRE EC REBEL 156F
DAM KDP MISS HOYA HAYLEIGH
OWNER BLACK GOLD SIMMENTALS
GRAND CHAMPION BULL
BLACK GOLD/GW CABARET 42M
SIRE LFE CABARET 847J
DAM IRCC FOX TROT 862F
OWNER BLACK GOLD SIMMENTALS
RESERVE CHAMPION FEMALE
NGDB EMMY 576L
SIRE RF CALIBER 014G
DAM BRAMLETS/DBLG EMMY G930
OWNER HOEGL SIMMENTALS
RESERVE CHAMPION BULL WF MAXED OUT 184M
SIRE MADER WALK THE LINE 92J
DAM WF CREAM SODA 64J
OWNER WALLGREN FARMS
Date: November 3, 2024
Location: Toronto, Ontario
Judge: Scott Shaake
GRAND CHAMPION FEMALE
LHF LADY GAGA 105L
SIRE SVS BETTS 808F
DAM STF TRENDY BT26
OWNER CIRCLE K SIMMENTALS & WALKERBRAE FARMS
GRAND CHAMPION BULL OATTES RING OF FIRE 5M
SIRE MADER WALK THE LINE 92J
DAM OATTES SINFUL FLIRT 55F
OWNER OATTES CATTLE
RESERVE CHAMPION FEMALE
JASS RHYTHM 206K
SIRE RUBY SWC BATTLE CRY 431B
DAM RUBY NFF RHYTHM 4B1
OWNER HIGHWOOD LAND & CATTLE
RESERVE CHAMPION BULL BLACK RIVER LEXOR 5M
SIRE LKCC BOLD VENTURE 194F
DAM BARLEE LEXI LOU 92G
OWNER BLACK RIVER FARMS
Date: November 7, 2024
Location: Edmonton, Alberta
Judge: Trent Liebrich
GRAND CHAMPION FEMALE
SVS RED SAGE 49J
SIRE SVS TYCOON 841F
DAM WFL RED SAGE 506C
OWNER KT RANCHES
GRAND CHAMPION BULL TY-D/DAS CASH 111K
SIRE SVS DYNASTY 915G
DAM TYD/JK/NJAA ROYALTY 14G
OWNER TY-D LIVESTOCK & CHEZE FARMS
RESERVE CHAMPION FEMALE
MCINTOSH LADY 50K
SIRE TNT BOOTLEGGER Z268
DAM ERIXON LADY 79E
OWNER HORNER CATTLE COMPANY
RESERVE CHAMPION BULL WF MAXED OUT 184M
MADER WALK THE LINE 92J
DAM WF CREAM SODA 64J
OWNER WALLGREN FARMS
SIRE
Date: November 27, 2024
Location: Regina, SK
Judge: Jirl Buck, Madill, OK
GRAND CHAMPION & SUPREME CHAMPION FEMALE
WHEATLAND LADY 211H
SIRE BCLR AMBITION E301
DAM WHEATLAND LADY 5100C
OWNER WHEATLAND SIMMENTAL STOCK FARM
GRAND CHAMPION BULL GRASS ROOTS RED MAN 350
SIRE SVS RANCHER 42H
DAM GRASS ROOTS CREAM SODA 834
OWNER BOHRSON MARKETING SERVICES LTD; ADDITIONAL
OWNERS CANADIAN SIRES AND RICHARDS LAND & LIVESTOCK
RESERVE CHAMPION FEMALE
BLACK GOLD MS HAYLEIGH 213K
SIRE EC REBEL 156F
DAM KDP MISS HOYA HAYLEIGH
OWNER BLACK GOLD SIMMENTALS
RESERVE CHAMPION BULL ERIXON JOHNNY 10M
SIRE MADER WALK THE LINE 92J
DAM ERIXON BELLA 117H
OWNER ERIXON SIMMENTALS INC.
SALE RESULTS
World Simmental Sale
Olds, AB
August 2nd, 2024
Auctioneer: Ryan Dorran & Dan Skeels
Sale Management: Bohrson Marketing Services
Ontario Autumn Simmental Classic
Hanover, ON
September 14, 2024
Auctioneer: Chris Poley
Sale Management: T Bar C Cattle Co. Ltd.
Ferme Gagnon Inc 27th Annual Production Sale
Cheneville, PQ
September 28th, 2024
Auctioneer: Dan Skeels
Sale Management: Bohrson Marketing Services
SALE RESULTS
Eastern Harvest Female Sale
Cheneville, PQ
September 28th, 2024
Auctioneer: Dan Skeels
Sale Management: Bohrson Marketing Services
The Fall Showcase
Alida, SK
October 3rd, 2024
Auctioneer: Ryan Dorran
Sale Management: Bohrson Marketing Services
Quality Control Sale
Indian River, ON
October 6th, 2024
Auctioneer: Ryan Dorran
Sale Management: Bohrson Marketing Services
SALE RESULTS
Anchor D Ranch - Pasture Treasures Female Sale
Rimbey AB
October 11th, 2024
Auctioneer: Don Ra an
Sale Management: Bohrson Marketing Services
Shades of Fall Simmental Female Sale
Bentley, AB
October 12th, 2024
Auctioneer: Danny Skeels
Sale Management: Transcon Livestock Corp.
KT Ranches Production Sale
Cherryville, Bc
October 13th, 2024
Auctioneer: Ryan Dorran
Sale Management: Bohrson Marketing Services
SALE RESULTS
Stars of the Valley Simmental Sale
Online Sale
October 19th, 2024
Auctioneer: Dan Skeels
Sale Management: Bohrson Marketing Services
Fall Gala Sale
Glencoe, ON
October 20th, 2024
Auctioneer: Dan Skeels
Sale Management: Bohrson Marketing Services
Triangle Stock Farm “Keepin it Simple” With Guest Consignors Female Sale
Parkland County, AB
October 25-26th, 2024
Online Farmgate Sale
SALE RESULTS
Cherry Creek Farms Online Sale
Online
November 2nd, 2024
Auctioneer: DLMS
Sale Management: Bohrson Marketing Services
50th Anniversary Farmfair Sale
Edmonton, AB
November 8th, 2024
Auctioneer: Ryan Dorran & Dan Skeels
Sale Management: Bohrson Marketing Services
Pembina Triangle Simmentals Association 42nd Annual Sale
Cypress River, MB
November 21st, 2024
Auctioneer: Ryan Dorran
Sale Management: Bohrson Marketing Services
SALE RESULTS
Antrim Simmentals Complete Dispersal Sale
Neepawa, MB
November 23rd, 2024
Auctioneer: Ryan Dorran
Sale Management: Bohrson Marketing Services
The Associate Invitational Sale
November 28th, 2024
Sale Management: Bohrson Marketing Services
Lone Stone Farms Invitational Female Sale
Westlock, AB
November 29th, 2024
Auctioneer: Don Oberg
Sale Management: Transcon Livestock Corp.
SALE RESULTS
Ladies Of The Peace
Grande Prairie, AB
December 2nd, 2024
Auctioneer: Dean Edge
Sale Management: Bohrson Marketing Services
Keystone Konnection 46th Annual Simmental Sale
Keystone Centre, Brandon, MB
December 3rd, 2024
Auctioneer: Danny Skeels
Sale Management: Transcon Livestock Corp.
Camrose Country Classic 8th Annual Sale
Camrose, AB
December 4th, 2024
Auctioneer: Ryan Dorran
Sale Management: Bohrson Marketing Services
SALE RESULTS
Simpower Bred Female Sale
Olds, AB
December 6th, 2024
Auctioneer: Ryan Dorran
Sale Management: Bohrson Marketing Services
Transcon's Western Harvest 11th Annual Simmental
Female Sale
Innisfail, AB
December 7th, 2024
Auctioneer: Ward Cutler
Sale Management: Transcon Livestock Corp.
Rendezvous Farms Complete Dispersal
St Rose Du Lac, MB
December 8-9, 2024
Auctioneer: Chris Poley
Sale Management: T Bar C Cattle Co. Ltd.
SALE RESULTS
Up the Ante Online Female Sale Online
December 9th, 2024
DLMS
Sale Management: Bohrson Marketing Services
Cream of the Crop Simmental Female Sale Online
December 10th, 2024
DLMS
Sale Management: Bohrson Marketing Services
Northern Lights Simmentals Bred Heifer & 2 Year Old Bull Sale
Rossburn, MB
December 10th, 2024
Auctioneer: Ward Cutler
Sale Management: Bohrson Marketing Services
SALE RESULTS
Premium Picks Simmental Sale
Kenton, MB
December 11th, 2024
Auctioneer: Ryan Dorran
Sale Management: Bohrson Marketing Services
Transcon's 47th Annual Simmsational Simmental Sale
Johnstone Auction Mart, Moose Jaw, SK
December 12th, 2024
Auctioneer: Danny Skeels
Sale Management: Transcon Livestock Corp.
Opt Bred For Success 1st Annual Female Sale
Darlingford, MB
December 13th, 2024
Auctioneer: Dean Edge
Sale Management: Bohrson Marketing Services
SALE RESULTS
Canadian Donors Pregniant Recip Sale
Online
December 13, 2024
Sale Management: Bohrson Marketing Services
Transcon's Season Wrap Up Simmental Sale
Beautiful Plains Ag Complex, Neepawa, MB
December 14th, 2024
Auctioneer: Ward Cutler
Sale Management: Transcon Livestock Corp.
Bonchuk Farms Female Sale
Mcauley, MB
December 15th, 2024
Auctioneer: Chris Poley
Sale Management: T Bar C Cattle Co. Ltd.
SALE RESULTS
Border City 7th Annual Simmental Sale
Lloydminster, SK
December 16th, 2024
Auctioneer: Ryan Dorran
Sale Management: Bohrson Marketing Services
Opportunity Knocks Sale 5.0
Lanigan, SK
December 16, 2024
Auctioneer: Chris Poley
Sale Management: T Bar C Cattle Co. Ltd.
Southern Alberta Round-Up 31st Annual Bull & Female
Production Sale
Stavely, AB
December 17th, 2024
Auctioneer: Ward Cutler
Sale Management: Transcon Livestock Corp.
SALE RESULTS
Mavv Farms Bull & Female Sale
Okotoks, AB
December 19th, 2024
Auctioneer: Ryan Dorran Sale Management: Bohrson Marketing Services
Transcon Livestock Corp. Presents White Gold Charolais Sale / Ultimate Red & Black Simmental Sale / Fleckvieh Equation Fullblood Simmental Sale
Friday Night Lights 9th Annual Sale
Red Deer, AB
Olds, AB
December 21st, 2024
December 20th, 2024
Auctioneer: Ward Cutler Sale Management: Transcon Livestock Corp.
Auctioneer: Ryan Dorran Sale Management: Bohrson Marketing Services
Transcon Livestock Corp. Presents White Gold Charolais Sale / Ultimate Red & Black Simmental Sale / Fleckvieh Equation Fullblood Simmental Sale
Red Deer, AB
December 21st, 2024
Auctioneer: Ward Cutler Sale Management: Transcon Livestock Corp.
SALE RESULTS
Double G Simmentals Complete Herd Dispersal
Saskatoon Livestock Services, Saskatoon, SK
December 30th, 2024
Auctioneer: Don Oberg & Ward Cutler
Sale Management: Transcon Livestock Corp.
Premier & Guests Fallsview VII On The Track
Toronto, ON
December30th, 2024
Auctioneer: Chris Poley
Sale Management: T Bar C Cattle Co. Ltd.
ANNOUNCEMENTS member
MARRIAGE ANNOUNCEMENT
Riley and Cassidy Chalack from Ultra livestock got married September 28th, 2025.
President Patrick Milner Fenwick, NS P: (902) 694-3122 patrickmilnercattle@hotmail.com
Secretary: Ella Lentz Mount Uniacke, NS P: (902) 790-6823 ellalentz97@gmail.com
CSA STAFF
General Manager
Bruce Holmquist C: (639) 314-4613 bholmquist@simmental.com
Office Manager
Barb Judd P: (403) 250-7979 bjudd@simmental.com
Programs Coordinator
Sue Giles P: (403) 793-0409 sgiles@simmental.com
Processing Department & Member Services
Perry Welygan pwelygan@simmental.com
Laurie Macdonald lmacdonald@simmental.com
Receptionist & Member Services
Devra Leavitt
dleavitt@simmental.com
Administrative Assistant
Laura Shuttleworth lshuttleworth@simmental.com
YCSA Coordinator
Jennifer Scott
902-968-1285
ycsacoordinator@simmental.com
Simmental Country Field Representative
Dwayne Martin
780-940-3510
dmartin@simmental.com
Simmental Country is the official publication of the Canadian Simmental Association. We endeavor to bring you up-to-date information and articles that are of interest to both the purebred and commercial cattlemen.
-
of AWARD EXCELLENCE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 9, 2024
Calgary, Alberta – In 2017 The Canadian Simmental Association (CSA) established the Award of Excellence program to showcase and recognize breeders who exhibit registered Simmental seed-stock across Canada each year. We are once again pleased to announce this year’s top 5 Award of Excellence Females and Bulls.
2nd – Oattes Ring of Fire 5M– owned by Oattes Cattle of Cobden, ON, with a total of 70 pts
3rd- WF Maxed Out 184M– owned by Wallgren Farms of Edgerton, AB, with a total of 67 pts
Black Gold Ms Hayleigh 213K
2024 CSA Award of Excellence Female
Awarded to Black Gold MS Hayleigh 213K– owned by Black Gold Simmentals of Lloydminster, SK, exhibited at Olds Fall Classic, Lloydminster Stockade Round-up, Farmfair International & CWA for a total of 116 pts.
2nd – McIntosh Lady 50K– owned by Horner Cattle Company of Minnedosa, MB, with a total of 101 pts
3rd – Boss Lake MS Elle 334L– owned by Boss Lake Genetics of Parkland County, AB, with a total of 87 pts
4th – Boss Lake Ms Passion 414M – owned by Boss Lake Genetics of Parkland County, AB, with a total of 81 pts
5th – RNR Miss Sheila 21M – owned by Double RN Ranching of Lloydminster, SK, with a total of 78 pts
DAS Ca$h 111K
2024 CSA Award of Excellence Bull Awarded to TY-D/DAS Ca$h 111K– owned by Ty-D Livestock & Darlene Scriber of Streamstown, AB, exhibited at Olds Fall Classic, Farmfair International, Lloydminster Stockade Round-Up, & CWA for a total of 123 pts.
5th (Tie) -Sun Star High Card 20K– owned by Sun Star Simmentals of Sedgewick, AB, with a total of 61 pts
5th (Tie) -SMRT Gunslinger 20L- owned by SMRT Livestock of Hussar, AB, with a total of 61 pts
4th- Double Bar D Linchpin 431K– owned by Double Bar D Farms of Grenfell, SK, with a total of 62 pts
The winners were announced at Agribition on Wednesday November 27th by General Manager Bruce Holmquist. Congratulations to all the Simmental Breeders who exhibited a great bunch of Simmental cattle in 2024!
Thank you to Red Flame Ranch for Sponsoring the AOE Championship Buckles!
For more information please contact: Canadian Simmental Association #13 4101 – 19th St. N.E. Calgary, AB T2E 7C4
Phone: 1-403-250-7979 or email cansim@simmental.com
What’s Happening
FEBRUARY
FEB 4 BLAIRS.AG CATTLE CO PURSUIT OF EXCELLENCE BULL SALE
SEDLEY, SK
FEB 4 CANADIAN SIRES FEBRUARY ONLINE SEMEN SALE
DLMS
FEB 6 RUST MOUNTAIN VIEW RANCH 14TH ANNUAL BULL & FEMALE SALE
MERCER, ND
FEB 7 ANCHOR D SIMMENTALS & CHAROLAIS 26TH ANNUAL GENETIC EDGE BULL SALE
RIMBY, AB
FEB 8 ROD & STARS SIMMENTAL BULL SALE
DLMS FARMGATE
FEB 9 ROD AND STARS SIMMENTAL BULL SALE
DLMS
FEB 12 STEPPLER FARMS ANNUAL BULL SALE
MIAMI, MB
FEB 12 B BAR C/STARWEST 6TH ANNUAL BULL & FEMALE SALE
CALMAR, AB
FEB 14 BULLS FOR EVERY BUDGET
STETTLER, AB
FEB 14 MADER RANCHES 36TH ANNUAL BULL SALE
CARSTAIRS, AB
FEB 14 TRIANGLE STOCK FARMS 14TH ANNUAL BULL & FEMALE SALE
PARKLAND COUNTY, AB
FEB 15 FEBRUARY FREEZE ALL BREEDS FROZEN
GENETICS ONLINE SALE
DLMS
FEB 15 JNR FARMS SIMMENTAL BULL & HEIFER SALE
WILLINGDON, AB
FEB 15 CIRCLE G SIMMENTALS, P&H RANCHIGN & GALLELLI CHAROLAIS BULL SALE
INNISFAIL, AB
FEB 15 STATION GENETIQUE DE LA BEAUCE SAINT-MARTIN, QC
FEB 15 -16 THE GENTLEMEN’S BULL SALE DLMS
FEB 15-16 TRIPLE THREAT 7TH ANNUAL BULL & FEMALE SALE
FALUN, AB
FEB 17 ULTRA/CZECH-MATE 8TH ANNUAL BULL SALE
CARSTAIRS, AB
FEB 17 ELM TREE FARMS ONLINE BULL SALE
DLMS FARMGATE
FEB 18 VIRGINIA RANCH/SKYWEST SIMMENTALS BULL & HEIFER SALE
INNISFAIL, AB
FEB 18 W2 LAND & CATTLE BULL SALE - CHAPTER 7 VERMILION, AB
FEB 18 THE EVENT 5TH ANNUAL BULL & FEMALE SALE
CARSTAIRS, AB
FEB 18 STEPPLER FARMS ANNUAL BULL SALE
MIAMI, MB
FEB 19 M&J / GLASMAN FARMS SIMMENTAL & ANGUS TWO YEAR OLD BULL SALE
RUSSELL, MB
FEB 19 CROSSROAD FARMS 19TH ANNUAL BULL SALE
SHELL LAKE, SK
FEB 20
FEB 20
FEB 21
ROBB/HOEGL/GREENWOOD 20TH
ANNIVERSARY BULL SALE
LLOYDMINSTER, SK
BULL RUSH SIMMENTAL BULL SALE
RIMBEY, AB
MAXWELL/RANCIER 30TH ANNIVERSARY BULL SALE
VIKING, AB
FEB 22 TRI K CATTLE BULL & HEIFER SALE (W/ ALBRECHT FARMS)
