TEXAS LONGHORN TRAILS
FEBRUARY 2018
TEXAS LONGHORN TRAILS
January 2016 | 1
26 | January 2018
TEXAS LONGHORN TRAILS
26 | January 2018
TEXAS LONGHORN TRAILS
26 | February 2018
TEXAS LONGHORN TRAILS
TEXAS LONGHORN TRAILS
February 2018 | 27
COVER STORIES Sire Selection: Constructing 14 Herd The Foundation To Build On
A look at the importance of sire selection from the viewpoints of several breeders. By Justin Rombeck
38Keeping Your Bull At Home Tips for avoiding
FEBRUARY 2018 Vol. 29 • No. 11
issues when you have a bull on your property. By Myra Basham
DEPARTMENTS
42Rules And Tips For Showing Bulls Things you should
know before taking your bull to shows.
6 Editor’s Note
44 TLBT Letter
46 Affiliate News
FEATURES
50
in Las Vegas RFD-TV and TLBAA bring 12 Longhorns Longhorns to the National Finals Rodeo. By Lindsay Maher
24
To the Freezer or Beyond...Potential Markets For Longhorn Bulls There are many marketing avenues to generate income from bull calves. By Myra Basham
For Longhorn Beef How to create a market for 30 Bullish Longhorn beef. By Myra Basham
54 Learn more about how this benefit works
We LOVE To Give Promotional Memberships!
56
Voluntary Parent Verification and DNA Marker Options for TLBAA Member
About the Cover: Hubbells 20 Gauge, DOB: 5/22/12, 83 3/8”TTT and 101 1/4” TH is owned by the Hubbell/Mast/Helm Partnership. To view his offspring, visit hubelllonghorns.net or helmcattlecompany.com. To purchase semen contact a partner: Mark Hubbell (269) 838-3083; John Helm (972) 670-5134 or Andy Mast (616) 437-2323
News on the Trail
51 In Memoriam
52 In The Pen
53 Meet Our Members
58 Herd Management
63 Index/Just For Grins
64 Calendar
The Texas Longhorn Trails (ISSN-10988432, USPS 016469) is published monthly by the Texas Longhorn Breeders Association of America, 221 W. Exchange, Ste. 210, Fort Worth, TX 76164. Periodical Postage Paid at Fort Worth, TX. Subscription rates: $105 per year; foreign per year $180. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: Texas Longhorn Trails, 221 W. Exchange, Ste. 210, Fort Worth, TX 76164. Phone (817) 625-6241. Fax (817) 625-1388. Advertisers and advertising agencies assume liability for all content of advertisements printed and also assume responsibility for any claims arising from such advertisements made against the publisher. Publisher reserves exclusive rights to accept or reject advertising or editorial material submitted for publication in the Texas Longhorn Trails magazine. Articles and photos from this publication may be reprinted only with permission of the publisher.
4 | February 2018
TEXAS LONGHORN TRAILS
TEXAS LONGHORN TRAILS
January 2018 | 27
EDITOR’S NOTES NO HIBERNATING HERE
With this winter’s unpredictable weather in many parts of the country, I know I wished at times that I could just curl up in a warm spot and hibernate. But for folks who own livestock and those who publish magazines and work for the association, there’s no time to hibernate! While many of our members are out breaking ice or feeding hungry cattle, Trails Magazine has been busy as well. With a very busy start to our winter months, we did get a little behind schedule. We are working hard and getting back on track to arrive in your mailboxes earlier. Starting with this issue, we will regularly include articles that cover the following six subject areas: Breeders and Breeding, Marketing, Longhorn Beef, Health/Nutrition, Shows, and Equipment/Supplies/Pastures. Each month will take one of these areas to focus on for the main feature and the others will be included in varying depth. We will continue to have event coverage, Affiliate News, News on the Trail and other content as well. Our goal is to have the relevant, useful information that our readers want and to grow our resource base to include more breeder input as well as more cattle industry experts. The layout of the publication in a consistent order will help you find that information each month as well. The intent is to present subjects in the same order each month so it is easier for the reader to find the topics they are looking for quickly. We are excited about these changes and hope you will find Trails even more helpful and enjoyable moving forward. We thank all the breeders who chose to advertise their herd sires in this special feature issue. As you turn the pages and learn more about herd sire selection you will also see many examples of what is available in the industry. Whether you’re a new breeder, a potential breeder or just want to learn more, Longhorn breeders LOVE to share information. Pick up the phone and call some of these breeders and they’ll be happy to talk with you. The one thing that I have heard most consistently in my many years here is how much Longhorn people love to network and share information. If someone’s ad or an article leads you to reach out, be sure to let them know you saw them in Trails. Longhorn events don’t slow down for winter, either. Longhorn Weekend is a wrap and you’ll see full coverage of the shows, Eddie Wood Cowtown Classic Sale and the Year-End and Hall of Fame Banquet in our March issue. February will also see stock shows featuring World-qualifying Texas Longhorn shows in San Antonio and San Angelo, as well as the Cattle Baron’s Premier Longhorn Sale and Winchester Futurity. Registrations, transfers and memberships are just as busy. We are happy to say that numbers in all three areas have continued to grow. We appreciate your continued trust in us to help preserve the history and promote the growth of this April 2018 Issue: magnificent breed. Blessings,
DEADLINE:
February 23rd Longhorn Beef
Myra Basham Myra Basham Editor-in-Chief
6 | February 2018
TEXAS LONGHORN TRAILS
(817) 625-6241 • (817) 625-1388 (FAX) P.O. Box 4430 • Fort Worth, TX 76164 trails@tlbaa.org • www.tlbaa.org
Editor in Chief: Myra Basham Ext. 104 • myra@tlbaa.org trailseditor@tlbaa.org Advertising: Karen Price • (254) 223-4470 karen@tlbaa.org Graphic Design & Production: Trace Neal • Ext. 103 trace@tlbaa.org Administrative Assistant: Raborn Sprabary • Ext. 100 raborn@tlbaa.org
Registrations Rick Fritsche • Ext. 101 rick@tlbaa.org Dana Coomer • Ext. 102 dana@tlbaa.org Special Events/Marketing Lindsay Maher • Ext. 106 lindsay@tlbaa.org Accounting Theresa Jorgenson • Ext. 105 theresa@tlbaa.org Printed in the U.S.A. Member
TEXAS LONGHORN TRAILS
January 2018 | 27
Alaska
17 13 18
2 3
16
14 15 NORTH WEST
Hawaii
9
8
CENTRAL
EAST
6
5
7
10
SOUTH
12
4
11
SOUTHEAST
TLBAA Regions
DIVISION A ~ REGIONS 1-6
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
1
Canada, New Zealand, Australia
Chairman of the Board: Tom Matott • (303) 500-9465
Secretary/Parliamentarian: Chad Smith • (701) 764-6277
Executive Vice Chairman: Ken Morris • (704) 361-6035
Treasurer: Mark Hubbell • (269) 838-3083
1st Vice Chairman: Tony Mangold • (830) 237-5024
Director: Alex Dees • (805) 300-4617
2nd Vice Chairman: Stephen Head • (979) 549-5270
Director: Chris Herron • (909) 721-7577
DIVISION B ~ REGIONS 7-12
DIVISION C ~ REGIONS 13-18
At-Large Director
At-Large Director
At-Large Director
Mark Hubbell
Keith DuBose
Jim Rombeck
(269) 838-3083 hubbelllonghorns@aol.com
(979) 277-2161 kwdubose@gmail.com
(785) 562-6665 jl.rombeck@outlook.com
At-Large Director
At-Large Director
At-Large Director
Ken Morris
John Parmley
Tom Matott
(704) 361-6035 khaoslonghorns@gmail.com
(281) 541-1201 john@jspservicesinc.com
(303) 500-9465 tom@rockymountainlonghorns.com
Region 1 - Director
Region 7 - Director
Region 13 - Director
Jeff Jespersen
Cody Himmelreich (303) 775-2034 hi5longhorns@att.net
Chad Smith
(701) 764-6277 smithlonghorns@hotmail.com
Region 2 - Director
Region 8 - Director
Region 14 - Director
Nelson Hearn
Kevin Rooker
Brian Varner
(780) 966-3320 jeffj91@hotmail.com
(484) 638-0228 nel_tam_hearn@yahoo.com
(817) 692-7843 krooker@centurylink.net
(620) 704-3493 tmck7@ckt.net
Region 3 - Director
Region 9 - Director
Region 15 Director
Tom Smith
Russell Fairchild
David Edwards
(616) 293-0977 tom@widespreadranch.com
(254) 485-3434 fairchildranch@yahoo.com
(918) 557-0364 dledwards.texaslonghorncattle@gmail.com
Region 4 - Director
Region 10 - Director
Region 16 - Director
Aaron Adkins
(704) 490-9208 doublealonghorns@gmail.com
Sandi Nordhausen
(512) 750-1350 sandi.nordhausen@gmail.com
Kenny Richardson
Region 5 - Director
Region 11 - Director
Region 17 - Director
Terry King
Stephen Head
(970) 412-2859 krichardson21@aol.com
Alex Dees
(850) 299-6875 tklonghorns@centurylink.net
(979) 549-5270 headshorns@hotmail.com
(805) 300-4617 atdees@aol.com
Region 6 - Director
Region 12 - Director
Region 18 - Director
Kathy Kittler
Tony Mangold
Chris Herron
(501) 690-0771 k.kittler@hotmail.com Charles Schreiner III* 1964-1967 Walter G. Riedel, Jr.* 1967-1969 J.G. Phillips, Jr.* 1969-1971 Walter B. Scott* 1971-1973 James Warren 1973-1975 J.W. Isaacs* 1975-1977 J.T. “Happy” Shahan* 1977-1978 John R. Ball* 1979-1980
8 | February 2018
Bill Anthony* 1981-1982 Dr. L.V. Baker 1982-1984 Dr. W.D. “Bill” Clark 1984-1986 Richard D. Carlson 1986-1988 John T. Baker 1988-1990 Riemer Calhoun, Jr. 1990-1992
(830) 237-5024 tmangold@sbcglobal.net
Glen W. Lewis 1992-1995 Tim Miller* 1995-1998 Sherman Boyles 1998-2003 Bob Moore* 2003-2005 Joel Lemley 2006-2007 Ben Gravett* 2007
Dr. Fritz Moeller 2007-2009 Maurice Ladnier 2009-2010 Robert Richey 2010 Steven Zunker 2010-2011 Brent Bolen 2011-2012 Bernard Lankford 2012-2013 Todd McKnight 2013-2016
TEXAS LONGHORN TRAILS
(909) 721-7577 chris@herronconstructioninc.com
TLBAA EDUCATIONAL/RESEARCH ADVISORY COMMITTEE Matt McGuire - (405) 742-4351 semkinlonghorns@mindspring.com Mark Hubbell – (269) 838-3083 hubbelllonghorns@aol.com Dr. David Hillis – (512) 789-6659 doublehelix@att.net Felix Serna – (361) 294-5331 fserna@elcoyote.com John T. Baker – (512) 515-6730 jtb2@earthlink.net Russell Hooks – (409) 381-0616 russellh@longhornroundup.com
Frank Anderson Jr. and III 828 S. Rosemary Dr. • Bryan, TX 77802 (979) 846-8020 • (281) 501-2100 edie.wakefield@gmail.com Beadle Land & Cattle Ray & Bonnie Beadle Los Gatos & Hollister, CA 95032 (408) 834-0110 Ray.Beadle@gapac.com BPT Longhorns Ben & Phyllis Termin Weatherford, TX 817-374-2635 luvmylonghorns@gmail.com Christa Cattle Co. Jason & Louis Christa 2577 FM 1107 • Stockdale, TX 78160 christacattleco@msn.com www.christacattleco.com Louis (210) 863-7003 Jason (210) 232-1818 Dalgood Longhorns Malcolm & Connie Goodman 6260 Inwood Dr. • Houston, TX 77057 (713) 782-8422 dalgood@comcast.net www.dalgoodlonghorns.com Falls Creek Longhorns Stan & Sandi Tidwell Midlothian, TX 972-989-8939 Jack Mountain Ranch Hal & Betty Meyer 8000 Mount Sharp Rd. • Wimberley, TX 78676 (512) 422-4681 cell (512) 842-1116 halmeyer@hotmail.com Jane’s Land & Cattle Co. John & Jane Thate 418 W. Margaret St. • Fairmont, MN 56031 (507) 235-3467 Kaso, Lisa & Jake Kety Little Ace Cattle Co. P.O. Box 386 • Folsom, LA 70437 (985) 796-3918 ketyfolsom@aol.com LL Longhorns Neil & Cynthia Hall 1414 Thorton Rd. • Houston, TX 77018 (206) 574-8950 www.lllonghorns.com cynthia@lllonghorns.com McLeod Ranch Michael, Jackie, Mike & Makayla McLeod 355 CR 3031 • Edna, TX 77957 (361) 782-0155 Brennan & Michele Potts Rocking P Longhorns P.O. Box 579 • Emory, TX 75440 (903) 473-2430 Cell: (903) 348-5400 www.rockingplonghorns.com bpotts1@verizon.net Rio Vista Ranch Elmer & Susan Rosenberger 4818 Eck Lane • Austin, TX 78734 (512) 266-3250 • Cell: (512) 422-8336 e-mail: elmer@riovistaranch.com www.riovistaranch.com Triple R Ranch Robert & Kim Richey 21000 Dry Creek Rd. • San Angelo, TX 76901 (325) 942-1198 r3ranch@aol.com www.butlertexaslonghorns.com Westfarms Inc. Dale, Lynette, Leslie & Matt Westmoreland 13529 Hwy 450 • Franklinton, LA 70438 (985) 839-5713 • Cell: (985) 515-3172 e-mail: westfarmsinc@gmail.com
26 | January 2018
TEXAS LONGHORN TRAILS
TEXAS LONGHORN TRAILS
January 2018 | 27
Association News
By Lindsay Maher
LONGHORNS IN LAS VEGAS On December 6, 2017 two Texas Longhorn steers, Ernie CP & BRR Frosty, arrived in Las Vegas, NV for the 2017 National Finals Rodeo. The Texas Longhorn Breeders Association of America was invited by RFD-TV to participate and be a part of the event which ran through December 7-16, 2017. The natural beauty of the Texas Longhorn is an instant attraction which is one of the reasons RFD-TV wanted to secure a few head for their booth at the NFR Experience in Las Vegas. This event kicked off the strategic media alliance formed in mid-November between the TLBAA and RFD-TV, The Cowboy Channel, and Rural Radio 147. This new partnership will assist the association with the mission of preserving, protecting, and promoting the Longhorn breed. We are grateful to Ryan & Devin Culpepper who hauled the steers and represented the Texas
Longhorn Breeders Association of America during the entire event. The Culpeppers greeted thousands of RFD-TV booth visitors and passed out TLBAA postcards highlighting the genetic advantages of the Texas Longhorn. The booth was conveniently located by the Junior NFR area and both steers enjoyed posing for many pictures; even some celebrities stopped by like Red Steagall and Miss Rodeo Canada. Thank you to Ernie’s owners, Jo, Misty, and Mackinlie Tucker for making two trips out to Vegas to support the event and of course Ryan & Devin Culpepper who dedicated their time and wonderfully represented the Texas Longhorn Breeders Association of America. Special thanks to Chris Herron of Bar H Ranch and Tim Bartusek of Las Vegas, NV, for arranging overnight stalling for both steers and helping to support the event.
1. 2.
3. 3.
3
3.
4.
6.
5.
1. World Champion Bareback Rider Tim O’Connell with Ernie CP 2. Misty Tucker 3. Kids and adults alike were wowed by the Longhorns and lots of photos were taken. 4. Ryan and Devin Culpepper 5. Twitter post by the National Finals Rodeo. 6. RFD TV Broadcasts live from the event with BRR Frosty in the background.
12 | February 2018
TEXAS LONGHORN TRAILS
TEXAS LONGHORN TRAILS
January 2018 | 27
Feature
HERD SIRE SELECTION: Herd sire selection is one of the most important aspects of a breeding operation. Providing the bull quality cows to work with, a good feeding program, vaccination program, mineral program, and good pasture management all play into having a solid breeding operation. All these key elements must come together to have the industry crave to buy seed stock from your operation. The sire you choose for AI, ET, or natural service will be making 50% of the genetic contribution to the offspring of the cows you have him cover. When making a natural service sire selection, choose a sire or sire prospect that is out of a loaded cow family. Bulls will produce daughters that resemble their paternal granddam. It is also the quickest way to stack a pedigree. Do outside research on other breeds and breeding soundness. For example; we do not put the emphasis on scrotal circumference in our breed. Other breeds have a set standard for pass or fail in this area. Scrotal circumference translates into more fertility in the daughters of that sire as well as sexually maturing sooner. As we take a look at the advantages of what science has to offer, it could lead to many great revelations. Many of these “markers” can be marked out that can help make breeding decisions with milk, disposition, body size, docility, growing ability, and horn length. These are only a few examples how science can help pick your next sire. In this article we will be hearing from several breeders, each with their own approach to picking a sire. Their programs have been successful for them. They are leading by example. Each would be happy to answer any questions regarding their breeding practices or other questions you may have.
BOB & PAM LOOMIS At Bob and Pam Loomis Quarter Horses and Longhorn Cattle, the herd sire we are using is shaping the direction our program is moving. We are always after the best. This past fall Pam and I sold Cowboy Tuff Chex and that was one of the hardest decisions we have ever had to make in the Longhorn business. He was so complete in every way. His legacy will never be lost at our ranch. We have retained over 50 of his daughters and have several of his sons we retained interest in. Tuff was so laid back and quiet you could do anything with him. His conformation was impeccable and
his horns are the longest the industry has ever seen. The best part is, his calves are all cookie cutters and perfect just like him. What contributed to making him the bull he is would be all the great sires before him that we have utilized – Coach, VJ Tommie, Farlap Chex, JP Rio Grande, Peacemaker 44 and Cowboy Chex. In many cases, when we were using Tuff he was line breeding one or multiple animals in his pedigree. It was a homerun. We are now using a 50/50 son that we own with the Bolens, as well as having Delta Lucky Ace on lease from Hoosier Longhorns. These two bulls we feel will keep us moving in the direction we want to go. When we bring in a bull we want to know that he is what his pedigree reads. This is where DNA testing comes in. We have heard stories of folks buying a bull and the parent didn’t
JUST A FEW OF THE GREAT FOUNDATION
TEXAS RANGER JP 14 | February 2018
PHENOMENON TEXAS LONGHORN TRAILS
JET JOCKEY
By Justin Rombeck
Constructing The Foundation To Build On match what the buyer was told. We understand this is a rare case, but if we implemented parent verification at registration this problem would be eliminated. For any program in any breed/species accidents happen. This isn’t about trying to get someone in trouble, but as a safety net. We keep 16’ alleys between our pastures, but not everyone has this luxury. Bulls jump fences and DNA is the only way to know for sure who the sire is.
CARLA PAYNE When looking for a herd sire, natural or AI, I want a bull to complement the cows I have. If the cow has big horns but is light in the rear end, I need a conformation bull with big bone and lots of muscling. If a cow is light in the horn department, find a big frame, big horn bull to use on her. If she’s a light milker I look for bulls that have dams and granddams that milk well. I like cows that weigh in the 1000 pound range, so I need bulls that are over 1900 pounds. Also, it is proven in the commercial cattle programs that outcrossing gives hyber vigor and weight gain. Well, in a breed you can do the same thing by using a bull that is not related to your cows. I took Buckshot who was 15/16 kin to Jet Jockey, first TLBAA world champion bull, and bred him to a 100% Butler cow, Kickapoo Farms 185. I came up with Indian Girl 636. This cow was over 300 pounds heavier than her dam, a great milker and always out produced herself. I took Indian Girl 636 and bred her to a bull, Overlord C P, who had no relation to Indian Girl, and produced Boomerang C P, who Ben Gravett and Mike and Debbie Bowman used to produce over $1.5 million in progeny. Most important is to not focus on just one trait. When only one trait is the focus, you will compromise all other parts of your animal. I like big long horns as much as other breeders, but if they can’t milk how am I
going to raise another big horned animal, or they might be good milkers but not structurally correct bone-wise and break down when she’s only 8 years old and have to be put down. Or they might be structurally correct bone-wise but only have 35” tip-to-tip which would not fit our breed standards. My friends sometimes shake their head at me, because I buy bulls and semen like some people buy blue jeans. I just want the right bull for each cow I have. They are not super long horned, but they have good horns and compete in the show ring. To see the pedigrees of the animals I mentioned look at Reference cows and bulls on cplonghorns.com.
JUSTIN RISENMAY, As a relative newcomer to this industry, the one thing that has surprised me the most is the nearly complete lack of a bull prospect market. The common phrase one hears, “she had another bull this year,” is spoken with disappointment and the hope that next year will be different. It’s a stark contrast to the commercial beef industry where male calves are prized, steers bring more money at the sale barn, and quality herd bulls always bring top dollar. A commercial breeder knows the herd bull is contributing 50% of the genetics in a calf crop. The beef industry is fast moving, genetics improving every year, it is well known that the cheapest and most effective way to improve the genetic base of a herd is investment in quality bulls. I’ve wondered how the Longhorn industry is different – is the genetic pace slower, is there less competition, is it cheaper to upgrade the cows instead of the bull? The answer always seems to be no. If anything it feels that the genetics are moving even faster, the competition gets tougher every year, and elite cows far outpace the cost of elite herd sire prospects. Stepping back
SIRES THAT IMPACTED TODAY’S GENETICS
EMPEROR COACH
TEXAS LONGHORN TRAILS
BOOMERANG C P February 2018 | 15
Feature and looking at where Longhorn breeders are spending money on genetic upgrades to their herds, I see a willingness to buy cows and heifers and an unwillingness to put money into proven herd bulls and herd bull prospects. I don’t feel I have the experience to speculate on the reasons why bulls are devalued in our industry, but I would challenge anyone looking to upgrade the genetics of their herd to put a pencil to piece of paper and weigh costs. How much does it cost to upgrade 50% of the genetics in your herd with cows and heifers vs buying a quality herd sire or herd sire prospect? Our strategy has always been to build a cow herd on proven crosses that fit the type of bulls we want to use. We purchase or breeding bull prospects to cross well on the next generation of heifers, doubling up on strengths and correcting any faults. A herd sire has to be the most complete animal in the pasture. Finding that perfect bull requires spending a little extra money on a proven mature sire or raising multiple prospects. Our choice has been to purchase or breed multiple young bull prospects. Purchasing outcross cows specifically for bull production can make artificial insemination and embryo
chase. A great donor has the potential to pay for herself even faster. Although scarcity plays a large role in the Longhorn market, we feel that proven production trumps it every time. Regardless of supply there is always demand for the offspring of a great donor cow or great herd sire. With embryo transfer a cow can greatly increase her total production value, similar to the way AI sires can increase their value by consistently producing great animals.
JOE DOWLING Your bull should be the most important investment in your herd and will make the greatest impact on your herd. Excellent producing cows are important because they produce great herd sires, however the cows produce one calf a year and your bull impacts every calf. When choosing a bull you need to first evaluate your herd to see where you need to improve. Everybody wants more horn, but where else do you need to improve? Do you need to straighten their backs up or a better tailset? Are they rough in the neck and too much skin in the brisket? Maybe they need better udders or they might be post legged or sicklehocked. All these things are important if you want to win futurities or shows and improve your herd. I look for these components in the conformation while judging futurities. Since there is no one bull that can fix every problem on every cow, artificial insemination (AI) plays a vital role in your breeding program. You can pick bulls to fix certain problems in different cows. When you find a bull you believe will work for you then go look at his dam and sire in person if possible or really good pictures. See if they have any of the problems you are trying to fix. I also check and see how fertile the cows are in a bull’s pedigree. Has the cow calved every year and if not why? You do not want to breed fertility problems in your herd. If you are getting a mature bull look at his progeny and the cows his progeny are out of. See what problems he was able to clean up. Other breeds use EPDs and DNA data to select their herd sires. Kevin Bryant, LD McIntyre and I started the Elite Futurity to collect live data and DNA data to help breeders in selecting their bulls and marketing their cattle. The more information you have the better the map will be to get where you want to go.
Whether you choose to purchase a herd sire or utilize A.I., study your females to see what areas need strengthening in their offspring and choose a sire that can improve those areas in her offspring. transfer more effective. Embryo transfer is a tool we have utilized mostly for the benefit of our own herd. Choosing matings that will produce a great bull prospect usually makes for an even better heifer. Donor cows need to be representative of the type of cow we want to produce and must have extreme genetics, our budget for donor cows is many times that of the average cow in our pasture. The vast majority of our herd consists of $1000-$3000 well-bred cows with pedigrees that cross well on our bulls. We expect the average cow in our herd to pay for herself within three years of pur16 | February 2018
TEXAS LONGHORN TRAILS
TEXAS LONGHORN TRAILS
January 2018 | 27
Feature FELIX & DELLA SERNA, EL COYOTE RANCH Whether you have single or multiple breeding seasons or calve year round, one of the most important decisions you make is what sire to pair with your females. Each animal, both on the dam and sire side of the equation, has unique attributes that can contribute to the success of your herd. Considering these attributes and your herd goals can aide in determining the best combination to meet your needs for successful productivity. A carefully devised strategy can lead to overall success. The same can be said for matching a sire for your cow herd. Making a plan on paper gives you the opportunity to consider all your options and allows you to easily make changes to meet your needs. On paper you can look at what pedigree options will give you the most valuable pedigrees. There are times when a single bull will fit your line up, but there are also times when separating your herd into smaller groups allowing for several different bulls will lead to a better outcome. If you don’t have a bull that meets the needs of your herd, this also gives you the opportunity to consider if artificial insemination (AI) will help you reach your goals. By doing this on paper you can make as many changes as you want and have an idea of what direction you want to head in before working your cattle saving you time. With a strategy outlined, you can then take into consideration the live cattle. On paper you have the bull that might fit your cow and/or cows, but when you are actually working the cattle you will be able to take into consideration the phenotype, conformation, and structure that will best fit your goals. For most, the production goal is for progeny to out produce their seed stock. Therefore, this aspect of sire selection is very important. While everything may look good on paper, when you are working the cattle you may find areas of improvement, such as conformation and structure weaknesses, that you can improve by selecting the correct sire. This is where making plans on paper gives you some flexibility. You’ve already seen several sire options that are available to give you the best genotype possible, now you can find the best match to attempt to correct any conforma-
tion or structure issues that might need improvement (i.e., depth, length, stronger top line, more neck extension, etc.). Once you’ve evaluated the cattle for these attributes you can consider other phenotypic aspects that might need upgrading, for example in the Longhorn breed you would consider horn and color. This gives you a well-rounded approach to sire selection. As a breeder you will always be making decisions that will affect your herd productivity. Making the best sire and dam match is one of the biggest decisions that will be made for your herd improvement. Sometimes it will take time and careful effort to find the right match, other times it will be quite obvious. By making plans and having a strategy with flexibility gives you the opportunity to look at your herd from all angles and find the combinations that best fit the needs of your program.
TODD MCKNIGHT The impact a bull can have on one’s program is invaluable. There are a number of things to consider in determining which bull to bring into your breeding program. Does having just a huge horned bull make him the best? No. Is it the fact that he comes from the hottest bull and or cow at the time? No. What if he has the most breathtaking color you have ever seen? Still No. The making of a quality herd sire is not a single trait. They must have it all. For us it starts with a solid pedigree with an incredible mother and maternal line. From there we determine if the bull has frame, muscle, scrotal, horn, color and disposition that works for us. This bull also has to be able to correct things we seek to improve on the cows and heifers he will be breeding to. At CedarView Ranch we are breeding for the total package. We want to produce the most complete animal with females retaining their femininity, desirable traits and ability to be great milkers and mothers. For us a bull is an integral part of moving one’s program to the next level with each calf crop that is produced. We are striving for futurity champions as well as horn champions that will bring top dollar in any sale ring. We produced and raised a 90” TTT bull CV Casanova Magnum who is now owned by Stan and Pat Ivicic and we produced a second bull Tuff Stuff who is owned by McKnight/Dees/ Mullinax partnership that will make 90” TTT very soon.
JULY 2018 IS THE A.I. SIRE DIRECTORY Your TLBAA Certified A.I. Sires will be included in the photo reference free of charge for sires who have completed the certification process and received a TLBAA A.I. number by May 18th, 2018. Listed information includes name, A.I. number, date of birth, pedigree and current registered owner. If you have an A.I. sire that needs his photo updated you can email it to myra@tlbaa.org. This reference issue will also contain information on the certification process, the A.I. process, care and maintenance, and much more. If you would like to advertise, please contact Karen Price at (254) 223-4470 or karen@tlbaa.org 18 | February 2018
TEXAS LONGHORN TRAILS
TEXAS LONGHORN TRAILS
February 2018 | 3
Breeding
Glossary of Bull-related Reproductive Terms A.I. (Artificial Insemination) – Placing semen in the reproductive tract by means other than natural service. castrate – To remove the testicles conception – The fertilization of the ovum (egg). genes – Basic units of heredity that work in pairs (one from each parent) to determine traits and how a trait develops genotype – Genetic makeup of an individual. gonad – Testis of the male, ovary of the female heterozygous – Individual possessing unlike genes for a specific trait homozygous – Individual possesses like genes for a specific trait libido – Sex drive or the male’s desire to mate masculinity – Well-developed secondary sex characteristics in the neck, chest and shoulders of a bull phenotype – Characteristics of an animal that can be seen and/or measured
reference sire - Bull designated to be used as a benchmark in progeny testing other bulls (young sires). Progeny by reference sires in several herds enables comparisons to be made between bulls not producing progeny in the same herd(s). scrotal circumference - Measure of testes size obtained by measuring the distance around the testicles in the scrotum with a circular tape. Related to the bull’s semenproducing capacity and age at puberty of his daughters. scrotum - Pouch that contains the testicles. Also a thermoregulatory organ that contracts when cold and relaxes when warm, thus tending to keep the testes at a lower temperature than that of the body. semen - Fluid containing sperm that is ejaculated by the male. Secretions from the seminal vesicles, prostate gland, bulbourethral glands, and urethral glands provide most of the fluid. seminal vesicles - Accessory sex glands of the male that provide a portion of the fluid of semen. served - Female is bred but not guaranteed pregnant.
pheromones – Chemical substances that attract the opposite sex
service - To breed or mate.
prostate – Gland of the male reproductive tract located just behind the bladder that secretes a fluid that becomes a part of semen at ejaculation.
testosterone - Male sex hormone that stimulates the accessory sex glands, causes the male sex drive, and results in the development of masculine characteristics.
recessive gene - A gene that has its phenotypic expression masked by its dominant allele when the two genes are present together in an individual.
soundness - Degree of freedom from injury or defect.
20 | February 2018
sterility - Inability to produce offspring.
steer - Bovine male castrated prior to puberty.
TEXAS LONGHORN TRAILS
TEXAS LONGHORN TRAILS
January 2018 | 27
26 | January 2018
TEXAS LONGHORN TRAILS
TEXAS LONGHORN TRAILS
January 2018 | 27
Marketing
By Myra Basham
TO THE FREEZER OR BEYOND... POTENTIAL MARKETS FOR LONGHORN BULLS Social media is an interesting beast, offering both a platform for marketing and a means of discouraging new people from venturing into the Longhorn industry. If you’re thinking “What? Discouragement? I would never discourage folks from owning Longhorns!”, then check to see how you’ve worded posts about your bull calves. A quick look through groups and friends finds many folks expressing disappointment in another bull calf and questioning how to sell them all as if they are a burden. If a new breeder or potential start-up sees this, they may be less interested in going into a business where potentially half a calf crop is “undesirable”. The truth is bull calves can be a bigger blessing than people realize. It just may take a little more homework or a change in your marketing strategy to realize income from the ones you don’t keep as future herd sires. The hope of all breeders is that a bull calf with a strong genetic background is going to be an obvious potential herd sire. Unfortunately many aren’t, and even more vexing is that sometimes you’re still not certain until the first calf crop hits the ground. Don’t despair! There are other ways to create some income from those bulls, including:
1. LONGHORN BEEF We touch more on this subject starting on pg. 30. The beef option gives you time to watch the young bull develop as many do not process animals until they are two years old or so. They can be processed as young as 18 months. If you choose not to delve into marketing your bulls from the freezer, you can opt to sell them on the hoof and let your buyer take it from there. With today’s desire to raise meat naturally, some find success selling them at a young age to people who choose to raise their own beef so they can be sure of diet.
2. ROPERS Roping is a popular pastime, both professionally in the rodeo arena and in community and backyard arenas for amateurs as well. It is not longer just a western sport as roping enthusiasts can be found almost anywhere. This creates a potential market for bull calves from weaning up until about a year in age. Many ropers prefer Longhorn calves to the also popular Corrientes. In 2017, one roper sale in Hamilton, TX reports ready to rope Longhorns bring an average of $400-$500 per head while younger prospects or potentials range from $250 to $400 per head. A quick web search for roper cattle sales can get you started or ask your local sale barn if they know of any buyers.
3. TO PRODUCERS OF OTHER CATTLE BREEDS Many breeds of cattle envy the calving ease of Long24 | February 2018
horns. To take the stress off of first time heifers having their first calf, many cattlemen will use a Longhorn bull simply to get a smaller, easier to deliver calf. It helps save them money in the long run by cutting down on the risks of loss associated with calving. Other character traits of Longhorns have led to crossbreeding herds, such as disease resistance, longevity, and lean beef. Even if a bull doesn’t have the horn or conformation to take a Longhorn herd where you want it to go, he can still work successfully for other herds.
4. STARTER BULLS Every breeder has to start somewhere and they want a good-quality bull that can put desirable calves on the ground without investing a lot of money. So if you have a prospect that you decide is not for you and but is good enough that you don’t mind him producing for someone else, then he may be a great first bull to sell with a “starter” package. He can also be kept or marketed as a cleanup bull for those who use AI but don’t want to miss a breeding cycle due to AI not taking. A gentle, easy to work bull with no major defects is often the perfect in these situations. No matter what end your bulls seemed destined for, no one can buy them unless they know you have them and why they should buy them. That is where you have to put your efforts into marketing.
MARKETING OPTIONS For those bulls not destined to be a leading Longhorn herd sire, there are ways to move him without breaking the bank. Lets start with what you can do for free. Free options can range from Facebook posts to hanging flyers at the feed store with tear off strips on it. And lets not forget talking. Visit local sale barns simply to strike up conversations about the benefits of Longhorns and the value of using a Longhorn bull. You may even manage to drum up interest in a starter herd. If you have a cap with your ranch name on it or an “I love Longhorns” T-Shirt make sure you have it one to encourage buyers to ask you questions. This can all be done without even taking a sale animal with you. Low-cost options included local newspaper classified ads, online classifieds or even a classified in Trails Magazine are all options that can fall in the $25 or less category. Even with cheaper ads always inquire about frequency discounts. E-blasts are a popular option today and can get your message to a larger, targeted audience for as little as $70. If you already have a large list of folks in your own computer contact list, you can send your own e-mail to all contacts for free.
TEXAS LONGHORN TRAILS
continued on pg. 26
TEXAS LONGHORN TRAILS
January 2018 | 27
MARKETING – continued from pg. 24 The cost of magazine ads vary greatly depending positive picture of Longhorn value for new breeders. on publication and ad size/frequency. Smaller more Even if you choose to run a young bull through the lofrequent ads can be effective for having your name in cal sale barn, get the announcer to let potential buyers know that Longhorn bulls are people’s minds and announcing that you always have young bulls, Always ask if there’s a cost reduction great heifer bulls. Those bidding may not have consider ropers, lean beef - whatever you for frequent or long-term that option before. choose to sell - available. advertising, even if using a lower If the bull is good enough For example, if you run a 1/9 cost outlet such as classified ads. to continue producing in the age ad in Trails six times in a year registered Longhorn indus- targeting months when your bull calves are prime to sell, you’ve invested $540 and not try, whether for beef, showing or horns, you need to let only potentially sold a bull calf or two but generated people see and hear about him. You do not have to deinterest in your breeding program as well, leading to cide for people what he would be good for. Simply get future customers. Use words like roper, first calf heifer his photos, his pedigree, a list of his positive attributes, or lean beef in your ads to draw interest beyond those and offspring photos, if available, in front of people via social media, flyers or print ads. People cannot be interlooking for the next hot herd sire. Always consider the cost of your advertising in rela- ested in animals that they don’t know exist. tion to what selling one bull calf (or more) would bring If you have enough animals to offer him along with in. Also consider what you save if they sell and you no a group of heifers. These “starter packages” often appeal to new buyers. If you have a small startup yourself, let longer have to feed them. No matter whether you post on Facebook, create fly- people know you like him, but you can’t keep more than ers or run print advertising, the goal is the same in all. It one bull. Phrases such as “Out of Space - Has to Go” can is up to you to educate people not only on the desirable serve as an explanation as well as create the feeling that characteristics of Longhorns, but that they pass these the buyer can get a good deal. Unfortunately there are never any guarantees when traits along. Then go on to tell them about the variety of ways that Longhorn bull calves have value for first-time it comes to marketing cattle, but with a little effort there heifer breeding, ropers, lean beef and trophy steers. Cre- is no reason why those bull calves cannot be a revenue ate a desire for those bull calves and help build a more stream for a breeder.
26 | February 2018
TEXAS LONGHORN TRAILS
TEXAS LONGHORN TRAILS
January 2018 | 27
26 | January 2018
TEXAS LONGHORN TRAILS
TEXAS LONGHORN TRAILS
January 2018 | 27
Longhorn Beef
By Myra Basham
BULLISH FOR LONGHORN BEEF Disappointed to see those bull calves? Don’t be! There’s a demand for lean Longhorn beef that can turn them into a nice profit. Lean, healthy meat raised in a responsible, natural way is a market where demand is growing. Deliver all of that along with great taste and you have a winner. Planning to sell your bulls as potential beef requires some planning ahead to build a market. There are individuals with successful beef businesses, as well as folks who pre-sell every Longhorn they process. Others, however, struggle to grow a demand in areas unfamiliar with Longhorn beef and the quality of the meat. Here are a few tips on ways to develop outlets to turn those bulls into beef revenue.
If you are enthusiastic and positive about the product and freely discuss your love for the animals, the care they receive and the environment they’re raised in while providing a tasty sample you have greatly increased your odds of selling some beef. Tailor your approach based on the person’s comments. If they walk up and say I love beef but I’m not supposed to eat it, then focus on the health benefits. If they express feelings of guilt about eating meat or comment on the conditions in the industry, then talk more about your ranch and the quality of life the animals enjoy. While your signs or handouts can be as simple or elaborate as you choose, make sure they are done with care. Neat large handwriting on a large dry TO STEER OR NOT TO STEER erase board can work to draw If you know from the start A good display for marketing Longhorn beef should people in. That way you can taiyou do not desire a bull calf as include signs, business cards and an enthusiastic lor it to what you have available a potential herd sire prospect, promoter. Photo courtesy of Darlynn Lydick. on that day. Business cards, flyconsider castrating him early. As ers or brochures can be professionally done or created males age, the steers will yield more tender beef than on your home computer. Either way choose typefaces bulls do. If you are going to leave prospects uncut until that are easy to read, keep it simple and attractive and you’re sure you want to use them as beef try to process be sure to include photos of Longhorns in the pastures them no later than 30 months of age. The average age on your property. Make sure you have enough handbreeders report processing bulls for beef is 24 months. outs on the table or in a rack so people feel free to take it to read later and serve as a reminder. If there are only PREPARING THE CUSTOMER BASE two or three items laying on a table people will hesitate Expect part of the first animal you process for beef to keep it. to be an investment in marketing. If there is any way in The larger posters or dry erase boards can also be your area to get samples of that meat to the public, take used to benefit those passers-by that are reluctant to advantage of it. Always have some packaged and ready come up and talk. A few bullet points such as Lean to sell if allowed at your venue or be prepared with orLonghorn Beef, Naturally Raised, and other key points der forms or business cards to allow people to buy later. along with a website if you have one or a phone numSome opportunities include: ber allows those possibly interested parties to investi• Do a cooking demonstration for a local civic group gate at a later time. or club • Set up a booth at local fairs, farmers markets or any DISCOVERING YOUR OPTIONS event that allows vendors As you get out into the community or local city and • Even a classified ad in the local paper or flier postsee where the potential is, don’t think the only option ed offering a free sample to those interested is to sell ground beef by the pound. As you talk to those While samples are essential, information someone interested in your beef discuss different scenarios incan read and understand easily from a distance, such cluding buying sides, halve, quarters or custom cuts. as on a poster or sign, should be considered as well as You can sell them a live animal if they have a place to handouts that can give more detail and be carried away keep it until time to process, allowing them to truly by potential customers. The points that should be imhave control where their beef is coming from. There are mediately conveyed is naturally raised, grass-fed if apmany potential ways to sell the beef either pre-processplicable, lean, a good part of a healthy lifestyle and it’s ing or packaged: full of flavor. Your handouts can also include some in• Through a web site formation about your ranch or farm and how the ani• Through a food cooperative mals are raised. 30 | February 2018
TEXAS LONGHORN TRAILS
continued on pg. 32
TEXAS LONGHORN TRAILS
February 2018 | 3
Longhorn Beef – continued from pg. 30 • Local health food stores/markets • Restaurants • Farmer’s markets • Local newspaper ads • Flyers posted anywhere people frequent • Word-of-mouth • Serve it at social gatherings • Social media If selling processed beef by the pound is not something you want to take on, consider finding breeders within reasonable distance of you who already have developed a market and consider arrangements to sell your unwanted bulls to them to help them meet customer demand. Often those selling to a good customer based can have trouble processing enough to prevent back orders and would welcome a chance to purchase ready to process animals at a fair price. They may even have space to buy younger animals and finish them out instead of you having that time invested in them. Get creative when having such conversations and it can often turn into a win-win situation. As with any product or business, seldom does it succeed without a lot of effort in the beginning. But, knowing you have income potential when those bull calves hit the ground makes it well worth the time to develop your beef market. Stay tuned future issues of Trails Magazine for more information on raising, processing, marketing and breeding Texas Longhorns for the lean beef market.
32 | February 2018
COOKING WITH LONGHORN LEAN CULINARY ADVANTAGES • Texas Longhorn beef cooks quickly due to its low fat content. Fat acts as an insulator. Heat must penetrate the fat before it begins to cook the meat. Lower fat means a faster cook time. • There is little shrinkage in Longhorn beef. • Longhorn beef does not require additional fat for cooking. The natural fat is enough to cook your meat to perfection. COOKING TIPS • To broil, position the meat 3-4 inches from the heat. Watch it closely while cooking to achieve desired doneness. Broiling slightly frozen steaks keeps them juicier. • A medium-hot fire works best in grilling. Add damp mesquite or cherry wood chips to the fire for extra flavor. Remember, the meat cooks quickly so watch it carefully. • Longhorn beef roasts should be cooked at 275 degrees F. • A meat thermometer is recommended to monitor desired temperature. Ground beef should have an internal temperature of 160 degrees F.
TEXAS LONGHORN TRAILS
TEXAS LONGHORN TRAILS
January 2018 | 27
Herd Health
By Heather Thomas
SCROTAL FROSTBITE IN BULLS Cold weather can result in bull infertility the next The problem with an infertile bull becomes obvious breeding season, as stockmen discovered after the Febin a single sire group (the cows don’t become pregnant), ruary 1989 “Siberian Express” (5 days of cold weather but even in a multiple sire group there may be a lower with strong winds), and again in some western and conception rate if that bull is the older one and more plains areas after winter storms in 1995-96 and 1996-97. dominant and keeps the other bulls from breeding the During windy, cold weather, stockmen should be alert cows. “I saw that in a buffalo herd some years back. The to the danger of scrotal frostbite in old bull had a big hematoma next bulls. to his testicles. There was a young Various Stages of Frostbite Duane Mickelsen DVM, a cattle bull in the herd as well, but for 2 (From mild to severe) breeder near Pullman, Washington years they had only 3 calves out of (retired from the faculty at Wash19 cows just because the older bull ington State University), has been was keeping the younger one away doing fertility studies in beef catfrom the cows,” he says. The same tle for many years, and has done thing happens in cattle. thousands of breeding soundness “Sometimes in the spring if exams on bulls. Even though his there’s a cold snap with a strong region generally doesn’t have sewind—maybe a little snow and vere winters, there have been a few wind—the bull may suffer some years when cold temperatures and damage, though not as severe as wind resulted in problems. He redeep frostbite. There may just be an calls one severely affected bull in increase in secondary abnormaliwhich testicular damage resulted in ties in the sperm—bent tails, and a dramatic difference in scrotal cirsome droplets down on the midcumference. “He went from about piece. But this will clear up in about 37.5 centimeters down to 31.5 and 10 to 14 days because this has only the scarring was very evident,” says affected the sperm in the epididymis Mickelsen. (which is right on the surface) and “Wind, along with cold, can make not in the testicles. After new semen the problem so much worse. It usumoves in, the bull is ok; the infertility ally damages the testicles, causing is very temporary. But scrotal frosttesticular degeneration. Then there bite can cause permanent damage,” is inflammation as well. I usually he says. look bulls over pretty closely in the “Some of these bulls can recovspring, following a cold winter. If we er. This is why I like to palpate, sesee a scab at the bottom of the tesmen test and check them about 2 ticle, this is a clue that there has been months later. If you know when some damage,” he says. the cold weather hit, you can check “Whenever I am examining the them long enough afterward to bull I look for scabs, and they can be know if they still have a problem. If hard to peel off—and the bull resists if they are still bad, you need to cull you try to peel it away. This indicates that bull,” says Mickelsen. deeper damage. When the sperm “If the bull is borderline I recomfactory is damaged this will show up mend that the owner hold them in abnormal sperm 60 days later. It out of the cows for at least another takes 48 days to create the sperm in month. Some will heal up while the testicles, then the sperm spends others are borderline and they have 10 to 12 days in the epididymis mato make a decision on what to do turing, before going into storage to with those bulls. I do a thorough Photos courtesy of Heather Thomas be ejaculated,” he explains. check on these bulls, following the “If there is scrotal damage, what you see when you standards set forth by the Society for Theriogenology, examine the semen is a tremendous increase in primafor palpation, scrotal circumference, semen evaluation, ry abnormalities—head defects and proximal droplets motility, etc. The scrotal circumference in yearling (on the mid-piece right underneath the head). The bull bulls should always be over 30 centimeters and most of I mentioned had 90% abnormal sperm 2 months after them will be 34 or above. We also want to see 70% or the frostbite incident,” he says. greater morphologically normal sperm. We also want 34 | February 2018
TEXAS LONGHORN TRAILS
continued on pg. 36
TEXAS LONGHORN TRAILS
February 2018 | 1
Herd Health
– continued from pg. 34
to see 30% or higher motility. This is the least impor- get too cold to survive. If the whole body is getting cold, tant criterion, however, because if it’s a cold day and the you can certainly understand how the testicles could slides are cold, this slows down those sperm and by the suffer damage.” A good bull is a major investment and you certainly time you get the slide to the microscope they’ll be dead,” want to take care of that animal, with windbreak and he explains. Bulls need protection from wind to prevent scro- bedding. It’s also important to check all bulls before the tal frostbite in bad weather. “The two most important next breeding season. “Yet I’ve gone into some herds where the last thing the owner things in cold climates is a wants to do is spend money good windbreak and plenty of CATTLE STAND WITH THEIR BACKS on testing the bulls the next dry bedding. If the bulls have TO THE WIND AND OLDER BULLS ARE spring. They may have some to lie in snow or on frozen open cows and there may be ground this can cause testicuMORE LIKELY TO SUFFER FROSTBITE a fertility problem—yet they lar damage. The wind is espeON THE BOTTOM AND BACKSIDE OF don’t think they need to check cially damaging. I’ll never forthe bulls. They figure that get the time I just about froze THEIR TESTICLES. WINDBREAKS AND since they got some calves, to death in minus 25 degrees DRY BEDDING ARE A MUST. the bulls must be ok! I have with a 40 mile wind. The next some purebred breeder clients day was sunny and calm and even though it was colder (at minus 45) it felt warmer!” who always semen check the young bulls they plan to sell, but don’t check the old herd sires. They just assume he says. Cattle stand with their backs to the wind, and the old- they will be ok from year to year. But there can be prober bulls with pendulous testicles may not be able to pull lems with older bulls,” he says. them up as closely to the body for warmth—and suffer “In commercial herds I recommend not keeping frostbite on the bottom and backside of the testicles. bulls past 4 or 5 years of age. If it’s a valuable bull, how“Horses and cattle bunch together for warmth and pro- ever, many people continue using him for a long time. tect one another. I’ve seen a lone cow or horse die in Those older bulls do need to be checked,” says Mickcold weather because they lose too much body heat and elsen.
36 | February 2018
TEXAS LONGHORN TRAILS
TEXAS LONGHORN TRAILS
January 2018 | 27
FACILITIES
By Myra Basham
KEEPING YOUR BULL AT HOME There is no quicker way to cause strife with your neighbors than to have your Longhorn bull breed their heifers or wandering around their front lawn. The reverse is true as well, you don’t want to be forced to DNA test every calf to be certain who the sire is, nor do you want the neighbor’s bull to be able to reach your Longhorn females. That being said, it is possible to successfully keep your bulls where they belong. First, we’ll start with one point that the majority of breeders agree with. If you’ve tried everything within your means to keep your bull in his pasture and he still makes his way out – sell him. No positive traits a bull may possess outweigh the potential damage and possible lawsuits that can ensue from a Longhorn bull roaming free, getting hit in the road or breeding some cattle down the road. Do not sell him to another breeder and pass the problems along, take him to a sale barn or put him in your freezer. Fortunately, though, there are herd sires out there willing to stay home and do their jobs when pastured correctly. Every Longhorn bull has the potential to go over or through a fence if they decide they want access to cows in heat or to challenge a bull in another pasture. Bulls of any breed in a pasture near your cattle have the same potential to come through your fence from the outside as well. Bull management is a serious issue and one you need to consider before keeping a herd sire on your property. While laws vary from state to state and sometimes from county to county, you would be well advised to find out what the legal ramifications of loose livestock are in your area. To try and avoid possible issues, consider two variables that are crucial in helping keep that bull at home: location and fencing.
LOCATION Keep the phrase “Lead me not into temptation” in mind when considering the layout of pastures. While all cattle believe the grass is greener beyond that fence, bulls have an incredibly urgent hormonal engine driving them to reach the females on the other side or to confront the neighboring bull. It takes more than green grass to keep him content and reduce the risk of him challenging fences. When space permits, keep your bull pastures in an area where they do not share fences with other females or bulls. The more distance between a bull and outside stimuli, the more effective your fences become. If pasture is at a premium but you still have a little extra 38 | February 2018
room, create alleyways between pastures. It keeps the cattle from pushing against the fence for contact, lessening the possibility of breaking through or tearing up the fence. If a bull does happen to jump the first fence, often an alleyway doesn’t allow him a run at the second one. Also, try not to isolate him. If he has his own herd to tend to, and no close enticement, most bulls are content checking for open cows and taking care of those that are ready to be bred. If you have a breeding schedule that removes the bull from being pastured with the females for a period of time, make sure you have a steer or two that you can turn in with him for company. Bulls do not do well when penned alone.
FENCING Ask anyone who owns cattle about bull-proof fencing the first response you get is a laugh. The only materials that may be impenetrable for a determined bull would probably be frowned upon by neighbors. (Think solid concrete, walls made out of discarded tires or highway guardrails.) According to fencing pros, height is one key factor in discouraging fence jumping. Often a five or six foot fence with a couple of strands of barbed wire at the top for added height can take the spring out of the step of the average bull. Please note, however that there have been bulls known to clear 8 foot fences and go merrily on their way. Another way to beef up your fencing is to add strands of electric fence to the inside and top of your fences. Many bulls, once they’ve experienced the pain and shock of the electrified fence leave it alone. Do not
TEXAS LONGHORN TRAILS
continued on pg. 40
TEXAS LONGHORN TRAILS
January 2018 | 27
FACILITIES – continued from pg. 38 rely on this as fool-proof though. Determined bulls have some. Do not rely on your neighbor if they have conbeen known to endure the pain just to get to what they stantly escaping bulls. You can employ the use of elecwant on the other side. However, knowing the pain tric wire or tape on the outside of you fences to keep exists and facing a solidly built, sufficiently tall barrier the visitor from trying to check your cows or butt heads keeps many bulls in just fine. through the fence. Hopefully this will deter issues long Some keys to a good strong fence include the heavi- enough to contact the owners so they can take their bull est posts you can manage sunk deep enough in the back home. Never go out and try to run off a bull that ground. It can consists is trying to get through of 4 or five strand of your fence. He is alelectrified wire or tape, ready worked up, and woven wire, barbed you will simply be a wire, heavy wood or target for him. steel pipe. One caveat If you cannot locate to only using electrified an owner, call your lofence by itself – if a bull cal law enforcement wants out bad enough and let them know he is going to simply there is a strange bull hit that fence hard and on your place trying run through it, choosto come through the ing to endure the pain fence and let them as his hormones drive handle it. Only those him forward. with lots of experience The best solution handling bulls should is sturdy fence couple A bull with cows to work and not sharing fences even consider dealing with very hot electrified with other cattle is the easiest to keep at home. with a strange bull on wire fence and a proptheir property. erty layout, when possible that keeps enticements away There are many people who only rely on artificial infrom your bull’s proximity. semination (AI) simply because of all the risks involved with keep a herd sire on property. That is not to say that KEEPING OUT THE NEIGHBOR’S BULL If you are faced with issues arising from neighboring one cannot successfully keep Longhorn bulls at home. properties and the bulls they keep, the same consider- Many have tractable bulls that have not given them any ations need to be taken when setting up your pasture trouble. But, if you feel concerned or unwilling to put areas. Leave as much buffer space as possible between some effort into housing a bull responsibly, then invesyou and the neighbors. Avoid sharing fences with other tigate A.I. a little further. It is truly a decision you have to make based on your property, your experience and each cattle, especially bulls, whenever possible. As far as fencing, you should already have adequate individual bull you may choose to own. fence for keeping your own animals in, if not, build
40 | February 2018
TEXAS LONGHORN TRAILS
TEXAS LONGHORN TRAILS
January 2018 | 27
SHOWING
RULES AND TIPS FOR SHOWING BULLS While bulls are not as numerous at most Longhorn shows as females, there are many breeders hauling and showing bulls successfully. On the TLBAA World-Qualifying Show Circuit there are only a few rules specifically pertaining to bulls. The ages at which bulls can be shown are relatively young, with the oldest classes limiting age at a maximum 2.5 years. The following are the excerpted rules from the TLBAA Handbook:
World Show General Information and Rules and Regulations for the Qualifying Circuit and the Texas Longhorn World Show General Rules and Regulations NOTE: General Rules and Regulations apply to both Qualifying Shows, World Show and National Youth Show. Bull Classes: All bulls competing are shown at halter WITH A NOSE LEAD. Bulls 12 months of age and over must show with a permanent nose ring and nose lead. All bulls over 12 months must use neckties or neck straps when secured in stall. Handlers must be 18 years or older and/or in the TLBT Senior Showmanship Division to show bulls in Classes 27-29 and Produce of Dam/Get of Sire classes if a Class 27-29 bull(s) is/are entered. All youth may show Class 26 or under.
ready area, some exhibitors want to bring all their animals down at once. “Don’t be that guy,” says O’Bryan, “wait until the bull show to bring him down,” Carla Payne of CP Longhorns cautions adults to be there to assist youth when it is needed. “Even the youngest of our bulls can get bully when walked around other animals,” she warns. “If your youth is showing him, be sure you’re with them. Help your youth learn to watch him to see who he’s looking at and who he might be fixing to jump on or fight with. They can completely forget you’re holding their halter if their mind gets set on fighting and someone with a lot of strength will be needed to make them behave.” She goes on to add to use the same caution stalling at futurities and the Horn Showcase. “Try to make sure your bull is not stalled right next to another bull, so they don’t tear up panels or one end up with his head caught and the other one beating up on him. Make sure your
Anyone may show a bull in classes up to January of the year preceding the date of the World Show (Class 16-20 YOUTH and 20-26 OPEN). To show the older bulls an exhibitor must be 18 years of age or older. While the required nose ring gives one more control when leading the bull, the neck rope serves Showing in halter and a nose ring with lead as a secondary restraint while tied. Not only is a loose bull a threat for panels are latched good and gates are potential injury to people or other properly closed. The last thing you bulls, he is an even greater threat want is your bull out harassing or for unwanted breeding of another possibly injuring another animal.” exhibitor’s females. One exhibitor, Adequate feeding is important as Scotty O’Bryan of Champion Longwell. Moore reminds us that bulls rehorns, also suggests bring your own Tied in barn with halter and neck rope quire much more to eat than steers or stalling panels to put between him and other animals heifers, so be prepared to pour the feed to them and lots as there is no such thing as overkill when it comes to of free choice quality hay. safety. One last element to consider when showing a bull Trigg Moore of Triple T Longhorns recommends is promotion. Make the most of the exposure he is hauling with a steer and tying next to a steer instead of getting.”Why else are you hauling him?” asks O’Bryan. a heifer for a bull that walks and acts better in the ring. Make use of stall space to hang ribbons, banners and He adds for bulls 15 months and older, a little Vicks Vaphotos to promote the bull. He goes on to explain, “Purpor Rub on the bull’s nose show day can help keep his ple ribbons are nice, but racking them up is for nothing focus as well. if the bull’s future is to ride off in the sunset when he’s While most show chairs will ask bull exhibitors to done showing. Make him famous in and out of the ring. wait until the bull classes to bring the bull to the makeHis offspring will be easier to sell.” 42 | February 2018
TEXAS LONGHORN TRAILS
TEXAS LONGHORN TRAILS
January 2018 | 27
Texas Longhorn Breeders of Tomorrow
President’s Message Dear TLBT Members, One month ago, we started a new year. Some of us made New Year Resolution’s to better ourselves. I would like to aspire you to not quit on your resolution and carry it with you throughout the whole year. I also made a resolution to quit drinking sodas and challenge you to hold the promise of your resolution to better yourselves. As we better ourselves, I ask you to help enable other people to also become better by supporting fundraisers that will benefit our service project. With a little help from a lot, we can make a huge difference for a lot of people. It was great seeing you at the Fort Worth Livestock Show and General membership meeting. Seniors don’t forget about all of the scholarship opportunities around you. There are several scholarships through the TLBAA. For more information about these scholarships, go to the TLBAA website. Also, please remember there is a senior sideshow at our World Show Banquet in June. Send your pictures to any of our contacts. Kids interested in becoming a TLBT officer or supervisor, don’t forget to start introducing yourself to other members and making new friends.
Matthew Wallace
OFFICER SPOTLIGHT:
MATTHEW WALLACE
TLBT Office: President Age: 17 1.)Where are you from? Sunset, Texas 2.)How many years have you been a member of the TLBT? 3 years 3.)Why did you join the TLBT? Two years ago, I had recently calf scrambled at Fort Worth and I went to local breeders until I met the Grace Cattle Co. They were so nice and shared everything the TLBT had to offer. 4.) What is your favorite Longhorn show, and why? Most definitely the World Show. There are numerous things to compete in and I love the banquet at the end of the show. Here I was also elected President of the TLBT. 5.) What is your favorite Longhorn color and/or pattern? I like the red with white dots pattern. One judge called it a strawberry color. 6.) Where did you earn your first award? What type of award? I received my first award at the World Show after I placed 2nd in Quiz. 7.) What is your funniest TLBT moment? There are so many to choose from all the shows with the Grace Cattle Company, but I would have to say a moment at The West Texas State Fair has everything beat. After a day of showing, Justin went to pick up all of the ribbons in our area. When he found a few yellow and green ribbons, he asked whose they were because they only cared about the red, white, and blue ribbons. I then pathetically exclaimed that I was proud of my green and yellow ribbons. It was very funny in the moment and we still bring it up today.
44 | February 2018
8.) What is your favorite movie? Hacksaw Ridge 9.) Do you enjoy showing Longhorns and why? Yes, I love showing longhorns. The animals are all very unique, but I would have to say that I enjoy the teams and friends I show with at the longhorn shows. 10.) What person has influenced you the most? I would have to say it was a tie between Carrie Grace and Jimmie Gee. They have taught me so much about the longhorn industry and have encouraged me beyond measure in everything I do. 11.) If you were going to be turned into a mythical creature, what would you want to be? No doubt a dragon. 12.) What is your favorite quote? Why? Live Well, Laugh often, Love Cattle. On our display, we have a sign that says this and it really represents my life. 13.) What is your favorite season? Why? Spring, it’s not freezing cold or unbearably hot. Football season is a runner up since I miss washing on most Fridays due to games. 14.) What do you want to be when you grow up? A large animal veterinarian. 15.) What is the best part about being a TLBT member? I really enjoy the time spent with other officers and the people we get to talk to at the meetings. 15.) What advice would you give a newcomer to TLBT? Get involved in as much as you’re possibly able to, and make an impact for even the smallest actions can help make a powerful movement.
TEXAS LONGHORN TRAILS
TEXAS LONGHORN TRAILS
January 2018 | 27
AFFILIATE NEWS The HOTTLA is hosting a Spring Show & Dash for Cash Jackpot on April 27th - 29th, 2018, in McGregor, TX. with BIG money payouts. Entry deadline is March 22nd. We will have premiums in each class of $100 for 1st, $75 for 2nd, and $50 for 3rd. Showmanship will have premium payouts, Grand & Reserve Champion premiums will be paid based upon the number of entries. RUSSELL HOOKS We will have a Youth Points, Open, Youth Qualifying, Mini, & Trophy Steer PRESIDENT shows. Jackpot show payouts for high point & 2nd high point bulls & heifers RUSSELLH@LONGHORNROUNDUP.COM that total $1,500, and the Triple Crown Award is $1,000. There will also be a youth talent competition with payouts, great host hotel rates of $52.99 for our exhibitors, a silent auction, great food, and fun for everyone. All the rules, entry packets, and information are posted on our Facebook page and our website heartoftexaslonghornassociation.com Come be a part of our inaugural Heart of Texas Spring Show, it will be the first of its kind that is gearing up to be a record setting weekend ! You can email our HOTTLA Secretary & Show Chair, Cori Garcia, with any questions at Rafter-M-Ranch@hughes.net
HEART OF TEXAS TEXAS LONGHORN ASSOCIATION
Plans are being discussed for the spring sale in Saskatoon, April 7th, watch for consignment forms and further updates. Congratulations to Gordon and Charlene Musgrove, their mature female, OT Annie De was awarded Reserve Grand Champion Female at the NILE CODY ROBBINS show in Billings, Montana. It is good to see Canadian animals being shown PRESIDENT at the US shows. 306-380-6618 Also special mention to Deb Lesyk and Dwight Overlid on their bull Wildgrass 26 for making the finals of the TLBAA Affiliate Prince competition. That bull also tied with 7A Kickin Stones, a bull owned by Allemand Ranches as the CTLA Double Crown Bull Futurity winner that held its final in Ponoka. Memberships are now due for 2018, contact Kristine Fossum to update your information so no one misses out on sales information and any affiliate updates.
CANADIAN TEXAS LONGHORN ASSOCIATION
46 | February 2018
TEXAS LONGHORN TRAILS
2017 STLA Futurity Results
SOUTH TEXAS LONGHORN ASSOCIATION
December 10, 2017 • Top 3 each class
Entry No. Animal Name
CHRISTY RANDOLPH PRESIDENT LPINESRANCH@AOL.COM
The STLA WinterFest event in Edna, TX was a big success; we even had a little snow to match the snowflakes on the show buckles! The longhorns were gorgeous and the sweaters were really really ugly in the annual Ugly Sweater contest. Congratulations to John and Christy Randolph of Lonesome Pines who took top honors for both the Bull and Heifers at the Futurity. Other photos include Jeremy Johnson and Zaida Espinosa; The Zarsky Family ; the Ging family at the futurity. Thanks to all who attended and our wonderful sponsors. We will see everybody down the trail at the San Antonio show in February, Rodeo Austin in March and Rockdale in April. — Merrilou Russell on behalf of the STLA Show Committee
Christy & John Randolph
The Ging Family
Zaida Espinoza & Jeremy Johnson
Owned By
PTS
PLACE
B105 Mystical Jawge Harrison B103 CK Happy Easter B102 SR Prestige 731
Danny & Merrilou Russell Brett & Teresa Krause Lynn Struthoff / Josie Becker
230.50 226.00 224.00
1 2 3
B205 SR Double Shot 700 B203 HBPT The Ernest Way B204 Purple Rein LP
Lynn Struthoff / Josie Becker Phil & Brenda Tudyk John & Christy Randolph
230.00 230.00 228.00
1 2 3
B302 Sarcee Painted Dancer B304 Remarkabull B301 Iron Noggin
Bruce & Connie Olive Wesley & Tracie Keys Jeremy & Tina Johnson
227.00 226.00 225.00
1 2 3
B405 JTW Rural Warning B403 Sarcee Grand Gambler B404 JTW Big Country
Ty Wehring Bruce & Connie Olive Randolph/Wehring Partnership
227.00 225.00 225.00
1 2 3
B502 Sarcee Dueces Wild B503 Spyro B501 DG Magnum Image
Bruce & Connie Olive Kevin & Jodie Bryant Dale & Gina Francisco
228.00 221.00 216.00
1 2 3
B602 Kettle’s Tatoo * B601 SR Crown Reserve 686
John & Christy Randolph Lynn Struthoff / Josie Becker
232.00 229.00
1 2
FEMALES H701 RHL Sweetheart Diann H706 SR Clout’s Adele 725 H703 CK Buzz N Bee Happy H704 Kettle’s Twister
Kenn Harding / Tammy Tiner Lynn Struthoff / Josie Becker Brett & Teresa Krause John & Christy Randolph
223.00 221.00 220.00 220.00
1 2 3/4 3/4
H808 Kettle’s Ah-che-wa-wa H801 BRR Becca’s Tuff Miss H803 RB Stormy Morning
John & Christy Randolph John Marshall Terry & Kathy Bruner
228.00 227.00 223.00
1 2 3
H910 Kettle’s Chocolate Chip H903 RHL Stella H906 SR Shania 675
John & Christy Randolph Kenn Harding / Tammy Tiner Lynn Struthoff / Josie Becker
232.00 229.00 227.00
1 2 3
H1003 Coookies & Cream RZL H1008 Lonesome River H1002 CK Hidden Jen
Chris & Sarajh Zarsky John & Christy Randolph Brett & Teresa Krause
229.00 227.00 226.00
1 2 3
H1104 Cherry Mary Kettle * John & Christy Randolph H1102 DG Miss Magnum Dale & Gina Francisco H1101 SR 007’s Latta Chanel 633 Lynn Struthoff / Josie Becker
233.00 226.00 226.00
1 2 3
H1204 Allen’s Little Astra H1203 BRR Sunbeam H1210 Cassanova’s Candy
Brett & Teresa Krause John Marshall Mike Beijl
232.00 226.50 225.00
1 2 3
H1301 JKG Regina Jawge H1302 Kettle’s Smokin’ Rose
Jeff & Kristi Ging John & Christy Randolph
229.00 228.00
1 2
H1402 Kettle’s Garnet H1401 Hi 5’s Baileys H1403 ECR Summer’s Prime
John & Christy Randolph 231.50 JR Richardson Ranch / Dick Weir 223.50 Felix / Della Serna 221.00
1 2 3
BULLS
CHAMPION BULL: Kettle’s Tatoo owned by John & Christy Randolph CHAMPION FEMALE: Cherry Mary Kettle owned by John & Christy Randolph
TEXAS LONGHORN TRAILS
February 2018 | 47
AFFILIATE NEWS November 2016 - On an unseasonably warm and clear November day, the California Association of Texas Longhorn Breeders (CATL) met at Westhaven Ranch in Ione, California to share in a ranch tour, BBQ lunch, and for our semiannual meeting, diverting often to swap stories about our recently passed legendary member Col. Fraser West. The meeting was fully attended, and we PRESIDENT discussed the DNA process and upcoming sales. We welcomed new members SONDRA WEST-MOORE and had elections, voting in new Board member Directors and a new CATL SONDRA.WESTMOORE@HP.COM President, Sondra West-Moore of Westhaven Ranch. Sondra commented that she had hoped for a couple more years as a full-time breeder - carrying on for her Dad - before running for office, but agreed to take on the job. We discussed updating the CATL website and ongoing fundraising activities. May 2017 - Julie and Justin Hansen graciously hosted our Spring CATL meeting at their Diamondback Ranch in Paskenta. It was a fun, well attended and educational day, complete with hay ride tour, BBQ and camaraderie with our California Longhorn breeder friends. Our Spring CATL business meeting was productive and we formed a show committee to help get our Longhorn shows back on the map. Detailed plans to update our website were discussed and agreed upon. July 2017 - CATL represented the TLBAA well at World Qualifying Show at the California State Fair at Cal Expo in Sacramento, with more than 40 Longhorns in the show. Judge Alexandra Dees commented on the high quality of the registered animals shown. Awards were well dispersed among the exhibitors, highlights below: • Westhaven Ranch: Jr. Champion Heifer, Grand Champion Mature Female, Senior Champion Bull, Reserve Senior Champion Bull, Grand Champion Bull, Reserve Grand Champion Bull. • Cross Canyon Ranch: Reserve Jr. Champion Heifer, Jr. Champion Steer, Reserve Grand Champion Steer. • Rolling-O Ranch: Sr. Champion Female, Reserve Sr. Champion Female, Grand Champion Female, Reserve Grand Champion Female, Reserve Grand Champion Mature Female, Sr. Champion Steer, Grand Champion Steer. September 2017 - members of CATL met at Chris Herron’s Bar-H Ranch in Southern California for two events: an official California Satellite measuring event for the annual TLBAA Horn Showcase, along with our bi-annual CATL meeting. In attendance were Warren & Cathy Dorathy of Caballo Bravo Longhorns, Mike & Cattrina Lucas of the Lucas Ranch, new CATL member Tom Wilson, Sondra West-Moore of Westhaven Ranch and our hosts Blayne Chenoweth and Region 18 TLBAA Director Chris Herron of the Bar H Ranch. Blessed with perfect weather, we proceeded to Chris’s chutes, and the Texas Longhorn livestock were officially measured for the 2017 Horn Showcase. Chris Herron displayed amazing hospitality by housing our livestock pre and post event, and with the Bar H topflight chutes and corrals, the measuring went swiftly and smoothly, with all hands on deck to assist sorting. Blayne and Chris then served a wonderful lunch, joined by local friends and neighbors of the ranch. Our CATL meeting followed. Despite having small attendance for our Fall meeting (many CATL members were not able to attend due to conflicts or family illness) discussion was lively, but we did not have a quorum, so no official resolutions or voting occurred. October 2017 - After the satellite measuring event, the fun continued the following weekend, in Lawton Oklahoma. The TLBAA put on a first rate event with the 2017 TLBAA Horn Showcase, spanning four days of activities of shows, sales, educational seminars, meet and greets, panel discussions, networking and yes, measuring. CATL was represented in person by Director Chris Herron and President Sondra West-Moore, who, with her husband John Moore, enjoyed the multi-day Longhorn activities. Some highlights included viewing the fantastic livestock in the Futurity, Bull and Embryo Alley and both Sales. The event was fully attended, and the TLBAA outdid themselves with a delicious dinner and lively awards and auction on Friday night in the packed ballroom. We are so pleased and proud to announce the following CATL members won TLBAA Bronzes! • Class 40: El Charro – won Tip to Tip, Total Horn and Composite, owned by Warren & Cathy Dorathy • Class 44: JH Rough Country – won Tip-to-Tip, Total Horn and Composite, owned by Hansen/ Torkildsen Partnership • Class 49: JH Ener-Chi – won Total Horn, owned by Hansen/Pine Brothers Partnership In other news, we send our condolences to long time CATL member and former CATL President Pete Boyce, with the passing of his wife Ginny Boyce this last September. Ginny was such a lovely contributor to our association for decades and we will all her so much. We also want to acknowledge and thank Dave and Kristine Beck of the Twisted Fork Ranch, who provided sanctuary and assistance to their many Northern California rancher friends, hosting, herding and transporting livestock during the 2017 devastating fires in Napa County. From all of us, thank you Dave and Kristine. As we head into 2018, to TLBAA breeders here and abroad, we wish you all good weather with enough rain, green grass and healthy and happy cattle.
CALIFORNA TEXAS LONGHORN BREEDER ASSOCIATION
48 | February 2018
TEXAS LONGHORN TRAILS
TEXAS LONGHORN TRAILS
January 2018 | 27
NEWS On the Trail...
Searle Ranch Longhorns Kick Off National Western A sunny, 50-degree day in early January ... what better occasion for a Longhorn cattle drive through downtown Denver? Kicking off the 112th edition of the National Western Stock Show in fine style last Thursday were 40 members of the Searle Ranch herd from Monument and Ellicott, Colorado, with crowds estimated between 80,000-100,000 folks lining the streets for this annual celebration of Denver’s Old West heritage. Great job by Gary Lake and the crew, and thanks to Kerri Rochon of Kiowa Creek Coaches, pilot of the VIP wagon.More about the Searle Ranch operation at Facebook. com/SearleBeef.
Top right: Trail Boss Stan Searle of Monument, Colorado; top left: VIP wagon riders Merrilee Orcutt, Monica Chen, Mandy Cyphers, Calandra Vargas, Alex Spero and fiance Caitlin Searle, Kathy Searle Lewis of Evergreen, CO with her grandson Reese Lewis, Sandra Cyphers and her husband Steve Cyphers. Photos and text courtesy of Charlie Searle; bottom right: A large crowd lined the street and photographers were everywhere.
If you have items to submit for News on the Trail please email them to myra@tlbaa.org. Items that may be published as space permits may include: • Media coverage of your Longhorn activities or ranch • Business, school or ranch achievements • Member birth announcements • Member wedding announcements 50 | February 2018
TEXAS LONGHORN TRAILS
IN MEMORIAM
Gene Arlen Juranka
October 19, 1933 - January 9, 2018 Gene Arlen Juranka, 84, passed away peacefully on January 9, 2018 at his daughter’s residence in Lake Charles, LA. Gene was born on October 19, 1933 in Lake Charles, but was raised in Cameron, LA and graduated from Creole High School in 1952. In May of 1953, Gene enlisted in the United States Marine Corp and received his Honorable Discharge in 1957. He was a proud veteran and continued his military service for 4 additional years, until 1961, in the Marine Air Reserves. While on active duty, Gene participated in the Puerto Rican maneuvers in 1954 and 1956, the Cuban maneuvers in 1956 and in operations aboard the USS LAKE CHAMPLAIN in 1957. After fulfilling his military service, Gene went to work for Continental Oil Company (Conoco) where he remained employed for almost 30 years until his retirement. During his years with Conoco, Gene received many awards, including the American Petroleum Institute’s Meritorious Safety Award In Recognition of Emergency Aid. Gene received this prestigious award in 1975 when he observed a helicopter hitting guide wires and crashing to the ground. Gene acted immediately, rescuing the occupants and rendering emergency to them. After retiring from Conoco, Gene fulfilled his dream of raising cattle. He started “Two by Four Ranch” in Dry Creek, LA. At his ranch, Gene raised Texas Longhorn cattle. He was a member of the Texas Longhorn Breeders Association where he served on the Board of Directors as the Region 6 Director. Gene was also a member The Smarter RFID of the Ark-La-Tex Texas Longhorn Tag for Livestock Breeders Association, the Texas Longhorn Breeders Gulf Coast Association, and the Louisiana Cattle(877) 330-3943 man’s Association. He served as the Sales@EZidAvid.com financial secretary for the Knights Www.EZidAvid.com Tag design delivers maximum of Columbus and was a member of read performance. the Lions Club, the American Legion, HDX read distance advantage. and the Veterans of Foreign Wars. Gene was a parishioner at St. Jo Improved neck design. seph’s Catholic Church in DeRidder, Super dependable. LA and was a member of the first St. Proven Success. Joseph’s Men’s ACTS Retreat in February 2015. He enjoyed hunting, garRumen Bolus dening and spending his time outID option doors on his ranch. Gene was preceded in death by his father, Joseph Juranka; his mother, Hazel Pleasant Fuscaldo; and his son, Todd Juranka. The easy way to work Longhorn cattle! He is survived by his wife, Linda; • Can be shipped by common carrier anywhere in his daughters, Kay (Irvin) Bang of the U.S. Lake Charles, Pat (Scott) Primeaux of • Galvanized pipe and steel sheeting Cameron, Deborah (Kevin) Dronett • Grease inserts for easy maintenance & operation of Lake Charles, Krista Dollins of • Vaccinate or deworm cattle Sikeston, MO and his son, Mark (DD) • Palpation gates • Measure horns Juranka of Moss Bluff; his stepchilW e’ve got dw!hat • A.I. cows dren, Rosanna Martin, Phil Scimemi, you nee Peter Scimemi and Sam Scimemi; 24 grandchildren, 14 great-children; and his sister Sheila Wooten of Arizona. The Official Chute of the END OF TRAIL RANCH Words of comfort may be shared www.endoftrailranch.com • mbowman@wildblue.net TLBAA Horn Showcase with the family at www.hixson funeralhomes.com Wichita Fence Co., Inc. • 1-800-626-3752 • wichitafence-dab@sbcglobal.net
WORKING CATTLE OR CATTLE THAT WILL WORK!
li ne v ideo of the n o r u o t u o k ec h C n our websi te! chute in action o
TEXAS LONGHORN TRAILS
February 2018 | 51
MEMBERSHIP
IN THE
1
PEN
2
3 4
5
6 1. Dale Hunt, Ardmore, OK; TLBAA’s Myra Basham
4. Thomas Jones, Ponder, TX
2. Sandra Sannassee & Poirier M. Olivier, Surin, France
6. Melissa Wisely, Trophy Club, TX
3. Frank McShane, Palm City, FL
52 | December 2017
TEXAS LONGHORN TRAILS
5. Mike & Gail Morton, Boyd, TX
We thank these folks for kindly droppin’ in at the TLBAA office.
Meet Our Members
James “Jay” & Michelle Abbt Big Dream Longhorns • Boling, TX 1. How did you get started in the Texas Longhorn business? With both our kids grown and more years behind us then in front of us my wife and I had a big dream to get away from the crowds and noise. We dreamt of a fulfilling and peaceful life possibly raising cattle on a ranch some place so we researched and visited different cattle ranches trying to decide on the best cattle breed for our dreams come true. We decided to go with longhorns based on their kindness, ease of handling, hardiness and how family like and friendly the Longhorn community is. So we purchased two heifers from Stotts Hideaway Ranch, and two heifers from Lightning Longhorns to start our herd. We worked long and hard to fence off our land and build a safe place for our herd. On about October 2016 we picked up and located our girls to our new ranch, Big Dream Longhorns (BDL) in the Boling area south of Wharton Texas. 2. What are a few highlights of your current Texas Longhorn program? We are a very small startup breeder but are working hard to ensure we raise great overall longhorns for everyone to enjoy. We started just over a year ago with four heifers and now are up to a total of 11 longhorns. In that count is our herd bull and the two bull calves born on the BDL in 2017, but fortunately we have 2 more calves due in 2018 as well as suspected pregnancies on 4 heifer/cows later in 2018. 3. What are your future goals for your Texas Longhorn program? We know we have a long ways to go but we are growing and with the If yo your electric brand great longhorn community we are learning fast as well as increasing the w not stay hot in will cold or windy number of like minded ranchers we now call friends. weather, get We hope to provide beautiful longhorns for people to appreciate as well a Husky. as helping other new breeders to learn about the best breed of cattle there is We Guarantee Ours O Will Stay Hot for their own dreams. 1 Letter/Figure_____120.00 2 Letter/Figure_____130.00 WANT TO BE FEATURED? 3 Letter/Figure_____140.00
HUSKY BRANDING IRONS BRANDIN
“Meet Our Members” is a way for newer breeders (3 years or less) to introduce themselves to the Longhorn industry. If you would like to be featured, simply email myra@tlbaa.org with the answers to the above questions. (max. space is approx. 300 - 350 words total, can be less)
Plus shipping * All Electric Brands Shipped in 24 Hours.
P.O. Box 460 • Knoxville, AR 72845 800/222-9628 • Fax 800/267-4055 • Text# 479/647-0381 www.huskybrandingirons.com huskybrandingirons@yahoo.com
COMING NEXT MONTH: FULL COVERAGE OF TEXAS LONGHORN WEEKEND TLBAA Year-End Award Winners TLBF Hall of Fame Induction Eddie Wood Cowtown Classic Sale TLBAA Youth and Open Shows As well as articles pertaining to all aspects of owning and raising Texas Longhorns
TEXAS LONGHORN TRAILS
February 2018 | 53
Membership Matters
We LOVE To Give Promotional Memberships! On behalf of our members, the TLBAA offers a 90-day promotional membership to new Longhorn owners that also includes the Texas Longhorn Trails Magazine. When our members sell to new buyers, we send the new buyers a welcome packet with literature that will help them get started as a Longhorn Breeder. When offering a promotional membership, please let the new buyer know that we need these three things to accompany the transfers or registration applications.
1. NEW MEMBER’S NAME OR RANCH NAME (This will be the name printed on the Certificate of Registration). If it is a husband and wife, we need both names. Accurate spelling of names or ranch name is needed as many new members contact us to correct the spelling of their name.
2. Accurate address, telephone & email information. 3. Payment must accompany the applications for Registrations & Transfers. At the end of the 90-day promotional membership period, an invitation will be sent to encourage the new breeder to join the TLBAA. Thanks to our great members, the TLBAA membership continues to grow! For questions or suggestions, please contact Dana at (817) 625-6241 or dana@tlbaa.org.
54 | February 2018
TEXAS LONGHORN TRAILS
Since 1964, the TLBAA has remained the premier Longhorn registry; not only serving as a preserver of records, but as an industry leader in educating the public and promoting the breed. Today the association continues to expand and the TLBAA has reimprove its support services. the TLBAA has remained the premier
SINCE 1964, mained the premier SINCE Longhorn registry; 1964, not only serving as a preserver of Longhorn registry; not only serving as a preserver of
records, but as industry leaders in educating the public records, but as the industry thecontinpublic and promoting breed.leaders Today in theeducating association and to promoting the association ues improve the and breed. expandToday its support services. continues to improve and expand its support services.
More More Than Than a a regisTry regisTry HORNS Herd Management
MONtHly MAgAzINE
HORNS Herd Management ★ Register & Transfer Online ★ Register & Transfer Online ★ Viewable Database of Over ★ 450,000 Viewable Database of Over Animals 450,000 Animals
AffIlIAtE CHAptERS AffIlIAtE ★ Regional &CHAptERS International
MONtHly MAgAzINE ★ Industry News & Breed Promotion ★ Industry News & Breed Promotion ★ Educational Resource ★ Educational Resource
★ Longhorn Futurities & Sales & ★ Weekend ★ Horn Longhorn Weekend & Showcase Horn Showcase
SHOw CIRCuIt SHOw CIRCuIt ★ Local & National Shows
★ Longhorn Local & National ★ Expo / Shows World Show ★ Longhorn Expo / World Show
yOutH pROgRAMS ★ Texas Longhorn Breeders of ★ Tomorrow Texas Longhorn Breeders of ★ Tomorrow Leadership & Scholarship ★ Opportunities Leadership & Scholarship Opportunities
INduStRy EvENtS INduStRy EvENtS ★ Futurities & Sales
★ Numerous Regional &Networking International ★ Events ★ Numerous Networking Events
Texas Longhorn Breeders Association of America Texas P.O. Longhorn Breeders Association of America Box 4430 Fort Worth, TX 76164 P.O. Box 4430 Fort Worth, TX 76164 817/625-6241 • Fax 817/625-1388 817/625-6241 • Fax 817/625-1388 www.tlbaa.org MEMBERSHIP NUMBER _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ www.tlbaa.org
TLBAA Membership TLBAA Membership Application Application
yOutH pROgRAMS
Please draw your brand Pleasethe draw your brand inside box exactly as inside thetobox as you wish be exactly recorded. you wish to be recorded.
Reading of Brand _______________________ MEMBERSHIP NUMBER _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ Reading of Brand _______________________ Name:______________________________________________________ Name:______________________________________________________ Other Name: ________________________________________________ New Member* 100.00/yr Other Name: ________________________________________________ New Member* 100.00/yr Address: ___________________________________________________ Renewal Member 100.00/yr Address: ___________________________________________________ Renewal Member 100.00/yr City, State, Zip: ______________________________________________ LATE MEMBER RENEWAL (After Aug. 31) 135.00 City, State, Zip: ______________________________________________ LATE MEMBER RENEWAL (After Aug. 31) 135.00 Home Phone: ( )______________Office Phone: ( )______________ 1000.00 Lifetime Member Home Phone: ( )______________Office Phone: ( )______________ 1000.00 Lifetime Member Ranch Phone: ( )______________Fax Number: ( )______________ New/Renewal Junior Member (18yr. & Under) ** 25.00 Ranch Phone: ( )______________Fax Number: ( )______________ Website Address: ____________________________________________ New/Renewal Junior Member (18yr. & Under) ** 25.00 World Headquarters & Museum Fund 200.00 Website Address: ____________________________________________ Email Address: ______________________________________________ World Headquarters & Museum Fund 200.00 Monthly Breed Publication (Texas Longhorn Trails) 105.00/180.00 foreign Email Address: ______________________________________________ PAYMENT OPTIONS: VISA DISCOVER MC Check or Money Ord. Monthly Breed Publication (Texas Longhorn Trails) 105.00/180.00 foreign TOTAL $ VISA DISCOVER MC Check or Money Ord. PAYMENT OPTIONS: Card No.:___________________________________________________ TOTAL $ Card No.:___________________________________________________ **Junior Member Birthday ___/___/___ Expiration: ________________ CID# ( 3-digit code on back) ____________ **Junior Member Birthday ___/___/___ Expiration: ________________ CID# ( 3-digit code on back) ____________ All dues must be paid by U.S. Funds. Referred by:_________________________________________________ dues mustTrails be monthly paid bypublication. U.S. Funds. Referred by:_________________________________________________ * New Active Membership includes New Member Welcome Package and subscription to the All Texas Longhorn
Texas Longhorn TrailsMember subscription ONLYPackage rate is $105 US address or $180 (US)Longhorn foreign address. * New Active Membership includes New Welcome and subscription to the Texas Trails monthly publication. be deducted an ordinary and necessary expense; however not deductible TLBAA Membership dues may Texas LonghornasTrails subscription ONLY ratebusiness is $105 US address or $180they (US)are foreign address. as a charitable contribution. TLBAA Membership dues may be deducted as an ordinary and necessary business expense; however they are not deductible as a charitable contribution.
TEXAS LONGHORN TRAILS
February 2018 | 3
Registration Matters
Voluntary Parent Verification and DNA Marker Options for TLBAA Members The TLBAA has available a voluntary DNA Parentage Verification testing program for our breeders. This is separate from the already established AI Herd Sire Certification program. To verify parentage of an animal, the animal in question tail hairs must be pulled and DNA tested and then DNA markers are compared to the sire and dam’s DNA markers. If sire and dam have not been tested with a case number established of their DNA Markers to use in the comparison, then they also must have their tail hairs pulled and their DNA compared to the animal in question. Once parentage has been verified through this DNA testing process, and if the animal in question is already registered, then a new registration certificate will be issued with the “PARENTAGE DNA VERIFIED” stamp/logo on it. If not registered, then the Parentage Verified with DNA stamp/logo will appear on its registration certificate when registered. If sire and dam have already been DNA tested and a case number exists, then they will not have to be tested. Each DNA test costs $40 and if sire & dam already have been tested with a case file, then there is no charge for them, only the animal in question. Some of our breeders are having their animals DNA tested without parentage verification just to have their DNA Case number on file; should questions arise or should they decide to have their entire herd eventually parent verified. Forms for Parentage Verification and DNA Markers only are attached. Once completed forms are received at the office the “DNA Tail Hair Kit Forms” will be generated and sent to you with an instruction sheet. DO NOT MAIL TAIL HAIRS TO THE TLBAA OFFICE, THEY MUST GO TO UC DAVIS IN CALIFORNIA PER THE INSTRUCTION SHEET. Have questions? Contact Rick at the TLBAA office 817-625-6241 or rick@tlbaa.org, dana@tlbaa.org 56 | February 2018
TEXAS LONGHORN TRAILS
DO YOU RECEIVE OUR WEEKLY E-NEWSLETTER? For the latest TLBAA news and event information, sign up for E-Trails today at tlbaa.org
GET FOUND WITH OUR ONLINE BREEDER DIRECTORY YOUR RANCH
ONLINE BREEDER DIRECTORY
Get found by creating an online listing for your ranch on the TLBAA website. Listings include a customizeable web page with your program highlights, videos, images, links, and maps.
THE COST The member cost is $240 which includes design and proof changes. Save $50 when purchasing with a Breeders Guide ad.
TEXAS LONGHORN TRAILS
For listing samples or more information contact Myra Basham. myra@tlbaa.org 817-625-6241 tlbaa.org February 2018 | 57
FEBRUARY
TLBAA Breed Advisory Committee’s
Herd Management Guide
SPRING Calving 1. As females near parturition and lactation, nutrient requirement for energy, protein, minerals and vitamins increase substantially. Two-thirds of fetal growth occurs during the last three months of gestation. Prepartum nutrition of females has been shown to also influence colostrum (first milk) production, subsequent calf viability and liveability, weaning weights and percent of calves actually weaned. During the last 3060 days of gestation, it is recommended that females consume 1.8 -2.0 pounds of total protein daily from grass and supplemental feeds to insure adequate fetal development and first milk production.
2. During the first 3-4 months of lactation, a 1000 pound cow with average milking ability (producing 10 pounds of milk daily) requires 11.5 pounds of energy, 2 pounds of protein, 0.06 pounds of calcium, 0.05 pounds of phosphorus and 36,000 international units of vitamin A per day. Warm season pasture grasses are dormant until mid-April and provide most of the energy needs, but limited protein, phosphorus and Vitamin A. Sufficient nutrients must be supplied to the lactating females in the form of protein and/or energy supplements, as well as mineral and vitamin mixes to meet their nutrient requirements. If pasture grass is plentiful, but dormant and poor in quality during this time of year, then protein is generally 58 | February 2018
your first concern. A 1000 pound cow in good body condition with average milking ability should generally be fed at least 1.5 pounds of crude protein (CP) from a protein supplement, depending upon the protein value and availability of the dormant pasture grass. Feeding 3-4 pounds of a 40 percent CP supplement, 4-6 pounds of a 30 percent CP supplement or 6-8 pounds of a 20 percent CP supplement per head per day should be adequate to meet most protein and energy needs. Choice of appropriate supplement (20 percent CP, 30 percent CP or 40 percent CP) should be based upon the cheapest source of protein. Price per pound of protein may be determined by dividing the cost per pound of protein supplement by the percentage of crude protein in the supplement. A source of salt, as well as a good commercial calcium:phosphorus mineral mix with added Vitamin A should be available on a free choice basis. If your cows are thin in body condition, then feeding supplemental hay plus higher levels of a low crude protein, high energy range cube (20 percent crude protein) will provide increased intake of vital nutrients. If pasture grass is limited due to overgrazing or poor Photo Courtesy Of Ashley Ivey rainfall during summer, then energy is your first concern. Feeding a medium (8-10 percent crude protein) hay free choice plus 2-3 pounds of a 20 percent CP supplement daily or approximately 15-20 pounds of a high quality (15-17 percent crude protein) hay per head per day will provide an excellent source of energy and protein for the females. If winter pasture is available, then the females should not need additional energy or protein supplementation. 3. Even though Texas Longhorns are known for calving ease, difficult births may arise. Check first calf heifers (due to calve) and pregnant cows daily for possibility of calving difficulties. Once fetal membranes (water sac) have been expelled and ruptured, assistance should be provided if calf delivery has not occurred within 30-60 minutes.
TEXAS LONGHORN TRAILS
4. Colostrum consumption during the early hours of a calf’s life is essential for passive absorption of important antibodies needed for protection from disease. Absorption of antibodies found in colostrum ceases after 24 hours after birth; therefore, a newborn calf should receive at least 2 quarts (5-6 percent of birth weight) in first milk within the first 6 hours to insure adequate antibody protection. Commercial sources of colostrum may be purchased or the first milk from other cows may be frozen for later use. Many females, especially first calf heifers, do not produce sufficient colostrum and there is no way of knowing how much the calf has nursed. Baby calf scours are typically the result of inadequate consumption of colostrum during the early hours of a calf’s life. Clean calving areas and proper attention to the newborn may reduce exposure to disease organisms and reduce incidence of scouring problems. 5. Dip navels of newborn calves in a 7 percent tincture of iodine solution when you happen to be there shortly after birth as a preventive measure of navel ill problems. 6. At 12-14 months of age, vaccinate replacement heifers with intramuscular IBR/BVD (modified live virus), a 7-way Clostridial booster, 5-way Leptospirosis, and vibrosis at least 60 days before breeding. Consult a local veterinarian on vaccine types and other vaccinations recommended in your area. Deworming is recommended prior to spring grass.
7. Evaluate the growth of your yearling heifers as well as first calf females. The goal should be to have your earling heifers weigh 65 percent of their mature weight by first breeding (14-15 months of age) and have a weight of 85 percent of their mature weight, including the weight of the fetus, prior to calving at 23-25 months of age.
FALL Calving:
1. Continue supplemental feeding program until good spring grass is available and calves are weaned. Lactating cows grazing dormant range grass require approximately 3-4 pounds of a 40 percent range cube or 6-8 pounds of a 20 percent range cube daily to meet their protein requirement. If winter pasture is available, forage intake should be sufficient to meet nutrient requirements of lactating females. 2. Remove bulls after a 90 day breeding season. A February 20 breeding date will result in December 1 calves. For a fall calving program, September, October and November calves are most desirable. 3. Consider limited creep feeding (16 percent crude protein) for calves nursing older cows, first calf heifers or any calves needing additional nutrition.
TEXAS LONGHORN TRAILS
February 2018 | 59
ALABAMA
COLORADO
ARKANSAS
FLORIDA
INDIANA
CALIFORNIA
IOWA
KANSAS
KANSAS
LOUISIANA
MISSOURI
NORTH CAROLINA
MONTANA
Need registration or transfer forms? Go to www.tlbba.org 60 | February 2018
TEXAS LONGHORN TRAILS
OKLAHOMA
NORTH CENTRAL TEXAS
SOUTHEAST TEXAS
SOUTH CENTRAL TEXAS
CENTRAL TEXAS
SOUTH TEXAS
SOUTHEAST TEXAS WEST TEXAS
CANADA ALBERTA
PENNSYLVANIA Call in, ask for your H.O.R.N.S. password and take control of your herd inventory and membership information. 817-625-6241
TEXAS LONGHORN TRAILS
February 2018 | 61
Classifieds Cattle For Sale
Auctioneers
Have a Happy, Happy, Happy Valentine Celebration
Cattle For Sale Diamond A – registered Texas Longhorns-cows and heifers for sale. 830-992-9155 dewarner@ ctesc.net
OLIVER LONGHORNS www.oliverlonghorns.com
Cattle for Sale “To God Be The Glory”
joliver@mytocn.com
972-268-0083
BEAVER CREEK LONGHORNS - Est. 1995. Conformation, color, disposition, pedigree and HORNS. Reasonable prices. Carole Muchmore, Ponca City, OK. 580 765-9961 (calls only) or email cmuchmor@ poncacity.net. www.beavercreeklonghorns.com
Our herd has been closed to outside genetics for over a decade. The very best Butler quality available in the breed. Robert King at 210-827-6700 or rking6700@gmail.com
Bob King Ranches
BUTLER
YOUR SOURCE FOR BIG-HORNED BUTLER CATTLE.
THATE Cattle Company
Your source for big-horned cattle in the North— utilizing the right bloodlines to produce the horn. Fairmont, Minnesota
507-235-3467
Small Registered Longhorn Herd For Sale 1 Bull, 6 Cows, 1 Bull Calf, 1 Heifer Calf Call 409-382-3096 for more information.
RUIDOSO, NM - EAGLE CREEK RANCH – 3-in-1 package with heifer calf by Victory Lap cow bred back to Jet Black Chex; yearling herd sire prospect by Clear Point; yearling heifer by Over Kill. (806) 797-6358
62 | February 2018
…and remember our great choices of Longhorns to supplement an existing herd, begin a new one or just surprise that special person on your gift list! Top notch, gentle bulls, bred and open heifers, plus beautiful young cows…many with calves at side. Awesome, big horned trophy steers, 3 yrs and up. They are destined to become traffic stopping pasture art. Very gentle and colorful! The Longhorn life just gets better!! Call or visit…we have outstanding bulls, cows, heifers and steers for sale at r easonable prices. Please call any of us to schedule a visit to each. We love to talk Longhorns! Cattle always available at all times. Reasonable prices. For information or to schedule a tour at either of our ranch locations, please call: Dorie Damuth - Flying D Longhorn Ranch 40206 Community Rd. • Magnolia, TX 77354 281-356-8167 • fax: 281-356-2751 dorie27@sbcglobal.net • www.damuthflyingdranch.com Scott Damuth, Legal Counsel • Shery Damuth, Vineyard Consultant sdamuth@damuthlaw.com • Gun Barrel City, TX Law office: 903-887-0088 • Fax: 903-887-2925 Scott Cell: 214-546-3681 • Shery Cell: 940-393-0991
LONE WOLF RANCH Dr. Lee and Linda Ragains
918-855-0704 • Sallisaw, OK
www.lonewolfranch.net REG. TEXAS LONGHORNS FOR SALE - Great selection of heifers, herd sire prospects, bulls, cows & pairs...... Offspring of Rip Saw, now 851/2” TTT. We offer lots of horn and color and a lot of variety in bloodlines because we have over 300 longhorns and we’ve been breeding up for a long time. We have over 40 really nice herd sire prospects and over 40 beautiful heifers available. We are using 7 top quality bulls. We’re about 20 minutes off the E TX line below Shreveport in NW LA. I also have straight BUTLERS. New Breeders Welcome!
Dora Thompson Tel 318-872-6329
echoofambush@aol.com•www.sandhillsranch.com
Real Estate FOR LEASE – Beautiful 48 acres in Navarro County off of Hwy 22. Two tanks and small creek on premise. Does need some clearing out of small trees. Would like to have livestock on property, preferably LONGHORNS. Please call for further details. Carla Cochran, 817-791-1109.
Trade & Barter TRADE YOUR LONGHORNS – We’ll take your bulls and steers in trade for cows, heifers, pairs, herd sires or semen from breed’s top quality bulls. Stonewall Valley Ranch, Fredericksburg, TX. Days 512-454-0476 / Weekends 830-644-2380.
TEXAS LONGHORN TRAILS
Transportation
FMB Land & Cattle LLC Custom Hauling...Shows....Sales 8ft wide Trailer for Longhorn Care Ron Bailey 254.534.1886 Rodney Brown 682.220.8501
Advertising Index
—A— AA Longhorns................................ 22, 23, 60 American Livestock.................................... 46 Anderson, Frank Jr. and III...........................9 Arch Acres..............................................53, 60 Astera Meadows..........................................61 Autobahn......................................................45 —B— Bar H Ranch......................................... 49, 60 Beadle Land & Cattle.............................9, 60 Bentwood Ranch......................... 2, 3, 28, 29 Big Valley Longhorns................................. 60 Blue Ridge Sale........................................... 50 Bolen Longhorns.........................................43 BPT Longhorns..............................................9 Buckhorn Cattle Co....................................61 Bull Creek Ranch......................................... 13 Butler Listings.................................................9 —C— Caballo Bravo Longhorns......................... 60 Cedarview Ranch....................................... 60 Champion Genetics....................................52 Chisholm Trail Cartel................................2, 3 Christa Cattle Co...........................................9 CR Longhorns..............................................27 —D— Dalgood Longhorns......................................9 DCCI Equipment.........................................54 Diamond Q Longhorns..............................61 Dickinson Cattle Co...................................BC DK Longhorn Ranch.................................. 60 Double A Longhorns.................... 22, 23, 60 —E— El Coyote Ranch...................................... 1, 21 End of Trail Ranch.......................... 17, 19, 60 EZ ID............................................................... 51 —F— Four Color Press..........................................57 Flying Diamond Ranch.............................. 60 —G— Gilliland Ranch...........................................2, 3 —H— Harrell Ranch...............................................35 Helm Cattle Co............................................61 Hickman Longhorns...................................61 Horseshoe J Longhorns..................... 22, 23 Hubbell Longhorns.......................FC, 22, 23 Hubbell’s 20 Gauge................................... FC Hughes, Scott........................................ 22, 23 Husky Branding Irons.................................53
—I— ITTLA.............................................................. 31 —J— JBR Longhorns..........................................2, 3 J.T. Wehring Family Ranch........................61 Jack Mountain Ranch.............................9, 61 —K— Khaos Cattle Company....................... 22, 23 King, Terry & Tammy..................... 22, 23, 60 Kittler Land & Cattle................................... 60 —L— Lightning Longhorns..................................61 Little Ace Cattle Co...................................... 9 LL Longhorns.................................................9 Lodge Creek Longhorns........................... 60 Lone Wolf Ranch.........................................61 Lonesome Pines Ranch.............................32 Longhorn Opportunities Spotlight Sale.........IBC Longhorn Sale Pen......................................52 Lucas Ranch................................................ 60 — M— Mast, Andy................................................... FC Midway Farm................................................54 Midwest Sale................................................ 17 McGuire Land & Cattle............................. IFC McLeod Ranch...............................................9 Millennium Futurity............................... 10, 11 — N— Northbrook Cattle Company....................61 — O— Oak Hill Farms............................................. 40 —R— R 3 Hilltop Ranch.........................................57 Red Peak Ranch.............................................5 Red River Longhorn Sale........................... 31 Rio Vista Ranch..............................................9 Rockin H Longhorns...................................39 Rockin Hil Longhorns................................ 60 Rockin I Longhorns............................ 2, 3, 61 Rocking P Longhorns.................................. 9 Rocky Mountain Longhorns.................... 60 Rolling D Ranch.......................................... 60 Rolling Horns Ranch...................................33 Ross Ranch Horns.......................................61 Running Arrow Longhorns........................57 Running N Longhorns................................41 —S— Safari B Ranch..............................................61 Sand Hills Ranch..................................... 7, 60 Sherwood Cattle Co. .................................26 Singing Coyote Ranch...............................61
TEXAS LONGHORN TRAILS
JUST FOR GRINS HAVE A CUTE PIC?
Send us your photo with a funny caption included! Send your photo with caption to: Texas Longhorn Trails, Attn. Myra, • P.O. Box 6030 • Fort Worth, Texas 76164 or myra@tlbaa.org (Email entries should include address.) Photo may be used in a future issue due to number of responses
They did say this family is known for producing more horn.... Thanks to Eitan & Sandy Barhum, SE Longhorn Ranch, for the submission
SS Longhorns...............................................61 Star Creek Ranch.................................. 25, 61 Stotts Hideaway Ranch..............................61 Struthoff Ranch............................................61 Sunrise Supply............................................. 46 —T— Thate Cattle Co.............................................9 Triple R Ranch (MI)......................................37 Triple R Ranch (TX)........................................9 Triple S Bar Ranch.......................................61 TS Adcock Longhorns................................61 —U — Underwood Longhorns............................ 60 —W — Walker, Ron.................................................. 61 Westfarms Inc................................................9 WI Longhorns & Leather............................61 Wichita Fence Company........................... 51
UPCOMING ISSUES: March: Longhorn Weekend Wrap-Up April: Longhorn Beef February 2018 | 63
SAVE THE DATE
TEXAS LONGHORN
Coming Events
FEBRUARY 2018
MAY 2018
FEBRUARY 9-10 • 2018 STLA Longhorn Show at The San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo, AT&T Center, San Antonio, TX. Bubba Bollier, bollier7572@yahoo.com or 325-247-6249. Qualify Haltered, Open, Trophy Steers, & Youth. FEBRUARY 16 • San Angelo Stock Show, San Angelo Stock Show Grounds, San Angelo, TX. Dennis Urbantke 325-656-9321 or dennis@longhorns.com. Qualifying Haltered & Youth, Trophy Steers FEBRUARY 23-24 • Cattle Baron Premier Longhorn Sale & Winchester Futurity, Navasota, Texas. Rick Friedrich 713-305-0259, Rick@RiverRanchLonghorns.com or www.TLBGCA.com
MAY 4-6 • TLBGCA Spring Show, Miracle Farm, Brenham, TX. Stephen Head at 979-549-5270 or headshorns@hotmail.com. Qualifying Haltered & Youth. MAY 5-6 • Red McCombs Fiesta Sale, Johnson City, TX. Alan & Teresa Sparger 210-445-8798 or dodgeram52@yahoo.com. www.redmccombslonghorns.com MAY 11-12 • Millennium Futurity, Red River Sale Barn, Overbrook, OK. Christy Randolph (713) 703-8458 or www.millenniumfuturity.com MAY 25 • ITTLA Heifer Futurity, Red River Livestock Auction, Overbrook, OK. Rob Van Liew at 405-420-1728 or vanliewranch@ gmail.com. MAY 26 • Red River Longhorn Sale, Overbrook, Oklahoma. Rick Friedrich 713-305-0259, Rick@RiverRanchLonghorns.com
MARCH 2018 MARCH 3 • Longhorn Opportunities Spotlight Sale, Will Rogers John Justin Sale Arena, Fort Worth, TX. Justin Rombeck 816-5361083 or justinthelonghornman@gmail.com. MARCH 4-6 • Houston Livestock & Rodeo, NRG Stadium, Houston, TX. Youth, Open, & Trophy Steer. Lindsay Maher 817-625-6241 or Lindsay@tlbaa.org. MARCH 9-11 • NTLBA Spring Show, Hopkins County Expo Center, Sulphur Springs, TX. Entry Deadline TBD. Contact John & Brenda Oliver 972-268-0083 or joliver210@yahoo.com. Qualifying Free, Haltered, and Youth. MARCH 10 • STLA Rodeo Austin Show, 9100 Decker Lake Rd., Austin, TX. Entry Deadline March 3rd. Contact Christy Randolph (713) 703-8458 or lpinesranch@aol.com. Qualifying Haltered, Free and Youth, Trophy Steers. MARCH 23 • YMBL South Texas State Fair, Ford Park Fairgrounds, Beaumont, TX. Entry Deadline February 1st. Contact Tina DuBose at www.arklatexlonghorns.com, www.ymbl.com or 979-277-2656. Qualifying Haltered, Youth, & Trophy Steers. MARCH 23-25 • OTLA Spring Shoot-Out, Payne County Expo Center, Stillwater, OK. Entry Deadline March 9th. Contact David Edwards, 918-557-0364 or dledwards.texaslonghorncattle@gmail. com. Qualifying Free, Haltered, and Youth and Points Only Youth. MARCH 30 • B&C 40th Spring Longhorn Sale, Grand River Livestock Market, Tina, MO. Contact Shawn Sayre or Bill Sayre 660-734-8782, 660-734-0827 or visit www.sayreauction.com
APRIL 2018 APRIL 6-8 • Bayou Classic, West-Cal Arena, Sulphur, LA. Entry Deadline March 23rd. Contact Chris Lindsey, clindsey04@yahoo. com, 601-319-8296 or Ryan Culpepper, Culpepper.Ryan@gmail. com, 940-577-1753. Qualifying Free, Haltered, & Youth. APRIL 13-14 • Blue Ridge Ranch Sale Llano, TX. Bubba Bollier 325-247-6249 or bollier7572@yahoo.com. APRIL 20-22 • Rockdale Spring Show, Rockdale Fairgrounds, Rockdale, TX. Sandi Nordhausen (512) 898-2401 or sandi.nordhausen@gmail.com Qualifying Haltered, Youth & Youth Points Only (x2) APRIL 21 • NTLA 37th Annual Sale, Broken Bow, NE. Bonnie Damrow 402-580-3673 or brdamrow6@aol.com. APRIL 27-29 • Heart of Texas Spring Show, McGregor, TX. Cori Garcia 479-381-8331 or rafter-m-ranch@hughes.net. Qualifying Haltered, and Youth and Youth Points Only, Trophy Steers, Miniatures. APRIL 28 • Midwest Longhorn Sale, Winfield Livestock Auction, Winfield, KS. Joel Lemley 325-668-3552 or jlem@camalott.com.
64 | February 2018
JUNE 2018 JUNE 1-2 • Great Northern Longhorn Classic II Sale, Dave Bilgrien Ranch, Montello, WI. Dan Huntington 715-853-7608. JUNE 8 • Heifer Futurity of the West, Yamhill, OR. Daniel Fey 503.349.7866/daniel@feylonghorns.com or Angelina Fey 503.537.8962/angelinapike@yahoo.com JUNE 9 • Fey Longhorns Consignment Sale, Yamhill, OR. Daniel Fey 503.349.7866/daniel@feylonghorns.com or Angelina Fey 503.537.8962/angelinapike@yahoo.com JUNE 12-17 • Diann Chase Expo, Will Rogers Memorial Center, Fort Worth, TX. Pam Dodson 817-390-3130. www.autobahnyouthtour.com
AUGUST 2018 AUGUST 4 • Deschutes County Fair Texas Longhorn Show, Deschutes County Expo Center, Redmond, OR. Entry Deadline July 13th. Contact Tami Kuntz & Renee Scott, tamaroo300@gmail. com & scottranch@hotmail.com or 541-280-1645 &541-573-3719. Qualifying Free, Trophy Steers, Youth, Points Only, & Miniatures. AUGUST 10 • Rocky Mountain Select Winchester Futurity, Latigo Trails Event Center, Colorado Springs, CO. Start time 9 a.m. Marlene Reynolds 719-510-2151 or cowgirlmama83@gmail.com. AUGUST 10 • Dinner and Select Heifer Sale, Latigo Trails Event Center, Colorado Springs, CO. Start time 5:30 p.m. Marlene Reynolds 719-510-2151 or cowgirlmama83@gmail.com. AUGUST 11 • Rocky Mountain Select Texas Longhorn Sale, Latigo Trails Event Center, Colorado Springs, CO. Charlie Searle 719-6490058 or charliesearle02@gmail.com
SEPTEMBER 2018 SEPTEMBER 7-8 • Hill Country Heritage Longhorn Sale, River Ranch, Fredericksburg, TX. Rick Friedrich 713-305-0259 or rick@ riverranchlonghorns.com. Joel Lemley 325-668-3552 or jlem@camalott.com.
SEPTEMBER 14-15 • Elite Futurity, Chisholm Trail Expo Center, Enid, OK. Contact L.D. McIntyre 308-750-8384, Kevin Bryant 580254-1864 or Joe Dowling 979-271-0277. www.elitefuturity.com SEPTEMBER 14-15 • Ft. Worth Stockyards Longhorn Auction, Fort Worth, TX. Lorinda Valentine panthercreekranch@att.com 270-996-7046 or Lori McCarty hvauction@gmail.com 817-991-8825. hudsonvalentineauctions.com
TEXAS LONGHORN TRAILS
TEXAS LONGHORN TRAILS
January 2018 | 27
non stop
Winchester
ORDER SEMEN in plenty of time for the season. Order from the leading provider of "one owner" Texas Longhorn semen. The beauty of AI is to mix and match with planned matings for every cow to a special bull who will increase values.
clear point
draG iron
" t 2t Clear Point – 91
super BoWl
rodeo max
Drag iron – 87" t2t
Save on shipping fees an d order all semen from DCC. No m inimum per bull.
Jet Black chex roDeo Max – 865/8" t2t
es. Check Use only the leading sir nghorn. them all at www.texaslo dex.cfm com/inventory/semen/in
Flair Galore Jet BlaCk Chex – 813/8" t2
t
clear Win
tempter
It's time, add some beef to the herd!
reckon so
teMPter – 871/2" t2t
Clear Win – 873/8" t2t
D ICKINSON CATTLE CO LLC 35000 Muskrat tt Barnesville, Ohio 43713 740 758 5050 information@texaslonghorn.com www.texaslonghorn.com
"Raising registered Texas Longhorns sinceTRAILS 1967 - it's our 50th anniversary year." 26 | January 2018 TEXAS LONGHORN