The Cattleman - August 2024

Finding solutions with guest worker programs.

On Guard

Protecting the herd through fall deworming protocols.

Harlow Cattle Co.

Birdwell Plainview, TX (806) 681-3667

Griffin Atoka, OK (580) 271-1333

Johnson Dallas, TX (214) 384-2653

10 FEATURES

A Stealthy Opponent

Take a stand against gastrointestinal parasites this fall.

By Kayla Jennings

Help Wanted

Finding and retaining employees for the cattle industry.

By Jaclyn Roberts Parrish

LONG DAYS, HARD WORK

To be a cattle raiser is to know that the work is never done.

Cattle need moving. Fences need repairing. Equipment needs maintenance. Barns need to be swept. Rarely is there enough daylight to complete your list of chores.

Yet as tasks go by the wayside, so does the ability to meet operational goals. That’s why finding and retaining good help is essential.

Rancher John Haley turned to the H-2A visa program to help his family’s operation. He expands on his personal experience with the program in the feature story starting on page 18. The article also explores the regulations in place and potential changes to the government program.

When it comes to ranch work, staying on top of parasites is paramount. From animal health to pasture management, explore advice for controlling parasites in a story on page 10. Author Kayla Jennings joins two

industry experts to discuss various deworming protocols alongside a Panhandle rancher who brings an on-theground perspective.

Members can also learn about the happenings from the 2024 TSCRA Summer Meeting in our monthly policy column on page 26. We explore priorities to watch as we near a legislative session this January.

Love the content you read in these pages? Catch more stories through our monthly podcast, TSCRA Talk, available through all major platforms. T C

Jaclyn Roberts Parrish Executive Director of Communications & Marketing/ Editor-in-Chief, The Cattleman

The only thing that takes more work than raising cattle is keeping track of all of the records that go with it. That’s why there’s CattleMax. Whether you’re tracking cattle or keeping records of everything from rainfall to receipts, CattleMax does it all. And does it easily.

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ON THE COVER

Saddle up with the crew at Diebel Cattle Co. near Victoria.

CONTENTS

Late summer means a change in season is on the horizon. From making hay to fall cattle workings, turn the corner into the year’s final stretch.

Photos by Katie Barnett

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A Stealthy Opponent

Take a stand against gastrointestinal parasites this fall.

Story

and

photos by Kayla Jennings

As the scorching summer sun starts to drop just enough to make a drive in the pasture tolerable, ranchers are out doing one last round.

Hopefully, a recent rain has kept pastures thriving and green for the grazing cattle inhabiting them. A soft breeze allows the grass to dance back and forth in harmony with calves playing in the background. Along with a melody of katydids in the background, it is the perfect evening. A beautiful sight, indeed.

Not so beautiful is the possibility of a silent intestinal parasite discreetly roadblocking a cow’s ability to receive maximum nutrition, leaving her depleted in every way. By the time effects are visible to the human eye, these stealthy creatures are miles ahead and the producer has serious catching up to do.

“Worms reduce the cow’s dry matter intake and that, in turn, reduces the nutrition available,” explains Dr. Jacques Fuselier, cattle technical service representative with Merck Animal Health in Louisiana. “The worms cause inflammation, so they reduce the amount of nutrients that can be absorbed through the gut and through the intestine.”

At that point, he says the immune system is preoccupied with trying to get rid of worms, so they do not respond as well to other infections — leaving the immune system weak and robbing cattle of performance.

Fortunately, this scenario is preventable with a proper deworming protocol as part of a larger herd health management plan. Dr. Wade Nichols, longtime senior technical services manager with Merck Animal Health in Idalou, says staying ahead of intestinal parasites is essential.

“Being proactive is key,” he says. “Getting rid of worms ahead of breeding season and keeping them low is going to help your program tremendously.”

A parasite, by definition, is an organism that is detrimental to the host, he says. As a result, worms are to blame for a plethora of problems within a cow herd impacting health as well as long-term profitability.

While some may consider deworming a spring-only strategy, assessing the herd’s potential risk and treating parasites as pastures turn dormant can greatly improve the ability to stave off these costly troublemakers.

Know thine enemy

According to Penn State Extension, cattle spend at least two-thirds of their lives grazing no matter the production system, so their opportunity to consume worms is high.

Intestinal parasites infiltrate their hosts when larvae are ingested via blades of grass, after which they lay eggs inside the animal and are eventually deposited back into the pasture through manure.

As egg count increases, the risk of worm exposure increases, as well.

“If it’s bad enough, they won’t be thrifty,” Nichols says. “They’ll have a rough hair coat. They can get water jaw. That would be a heavily parasitized animal, but most of the negative outcomes, you wouldn’t be able to see until it is too late.”

In the case of females, pregnancy rates will plummet, while a bull’s fertility could be impacted, and a steer will weigh out significantly lower than its genetic potential.

Yet, Fuselier says there are limited signs of parasites in earlier stages.

Even though parasite eggs won’t mature without grass in a dry lot, existing parasites will continue to do damage and decrease productivity in the animal.

“To be able to look at a herd of cattle and pinpoint which ones are more parasitized is impossible,” he adds.

From cow-calf to backgrounding weaned calves and all the way to the feedyard, deworming is a necessary step in the management protocol — even if the cattle are not actively grazing.

“By deworming, you clear out as much as you can from that individual animal, so you don’t reduce any dry matter intake,” Fuselier says.

Eradication plan

Since the goal of deworming is to stop the lifecycle of parasites that have a negative impact on the cow herd, producers are advised to deworm regularly as part of their management strategy.

To do this, cattle raisers can work to create an eradication plan. This starts with conducting fecal matter tests. Nichols notes that the threshold of a normal egg count when a fecal sample is evaluated for parasites can vary.

“The thing to remember is cows will always have lower parasite egg counts in their fecal samples than calves,” Nichols says. “The cow has some immunity that builds up, and so they can keep those parasites lower. For example, if you take a cow sample, you’re going to be at 30 eggs per gram, where that calf is going to be at 150 to 300 eggs per gram.”

By collecting fecal samples to get an egg count, producers can work with veterinarians to identify the best products for treatment. But that is only half the equation.

Selecting the correct dewormer hinges on a couple of variables — parasite prevalence and management style.

Dr. Wade Nichols

Dr. Jacques Fuselier

Since management and facilities vary across the state, it is important to consider practicality and cost when finding the best dewormer for the job. Fortunately, there are several options available including: an oral drench; pour-on; injectable; and feed through.

Different parasites require different treatments. By using a combination of products, producers can address every kind of parasite. Nichols says it is a great way to keep the parasite load down and the cattle healthy.

“There’s enough evidence and trials that have been done to show that combination deworming is your best method,” Nichols says. “That also helps with decreasing resistance.”

In addition, Nichols recommends producers monitor egg counts during the summer months. If the counts remain high, a nonhandling form of dewormer may be needed.

The non-handling forms are primarily fed through mineral or cubes. These products work by attacking the worms little by little until they are eventually eradicated. Even if certain cows tend to eat more than others, the product is designed to account for that by building up over the course of several feeding events until the worms are gone.

Drawing from his years as a practicing veterinarian, Fuselier stresses the importance of dosing properly no matter the product.

In a perfect world, each animal would receive the recommended product dosage according to its precise weight, but Fuselier and Nichols know that is not practical for most producers. However, there are still ways to effectively dose the herd.

Within a group of similar weight cattle, Nichols says to dose for the heaviest animal across the board. That way, the heavy animal is sure to receive the correct dose.

Nichols and Fuselier agree that, from an efficacy and costsaving standpoint, underdosing generally poses a greater risk than overdosing.

“Underdosing dewormers is one of the main reasons that we have a resistance problem today,” Fuselier says. “You are not getting adequate therapeutic levels that way, so giving the proper dose is important.”

Protocols in action

Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association member Austin Adams, of Adams Cattle Co. near Hedley, is diligent in managing parasites within his own family’s herd, as well as the Angus seedstock herd he oversees at Schaefer Farms.

For Adams, who is also the ranch and feedlot operations instructor at Clarendon College, it makes sense in the seedstock herd to deworm right around green-up and again as the forage goes dormant — bookending the growing season with clean pastures.

Adams says anytime they have the opportunity, they want to expose cattle to a fenbendazole deworming product to eliminate any internal parasites.

By administering a deworming product to cattle multiple times per year, a producer can enhance health and longterm profitabiltiy within their herd.

Austin Adams

“In addition to that, I’ll use a rotation of different pouron insecticides, so the two products can work together to maintain control of both internal and external parasites,” Adams says. “The ultimate goal is to have them free of any parasitic loads, setting them up for a good foundation going forward.”

In addition to timely deworming like Adams has subscribed to, Nichols and Fuselier encourage producers to take advantage of the free fecal sampling units through Merck Animal Health to formulate a tailored plan with a veterinarian.

These tests are easily accessed through many local Extension services, as well.

“Get a random sample from a pasture of 20 fresh fecal samples,” Fuselier explains. “Then submit those to get an average egg count. By visiting with their veterinarian, producers can get an idea of where the threshold is for their location and formulate a plan for deworming.”

To take it one step further, Fuselier says producers can send a follow-up sample after treatment to see how well the products worked.

Adams has used these kits, and he says it has been a simple collection with valuable results.

“I have been doing annual fecal samples on our herd in a rotation to make sure that we’re maintaining control of our internal parasites,” Adams says. “That’s one way we are able to make sure that we’re doing the best job we can as producers.”

Plot twist

Nichols and Fuselier both agree with the old saying, “You can move cattle east to west, but not west to east.”

Parasites Cost Cattle Producers

• Impaired Immune Function

• Negatively Impacted Nutrition

• Reduced Growth

• Reduced Reproduction

• Reduced Profitability

Source: Dr. Wade Nichols, Merck Animal Health

The truth of this saying stems from the normal parasite threshold of cattle in those regions. Parasites exist across the board, but the number is much lower in the more arid Texas Panhandle than in the swamps of East Texas.

In other words, cattle in East Texas are exposed to more parasites throughout their lives, so moving to a place with fewer is a win. For cattle moving east, extra care should be taken to deworm regularly and help them adapt to the new environment.

“Down here in Louisiana, we should deworm our cattle probably three times a year,” Fuselier says. “But then you get in a more arid, drier climates, where they have seasons, and it gets cold enough to break that worm lifecycle. They could get by with deworming the herd once a year. Some places they might go twice a year. It’s very regional.”

Because of irrigation, Adams sees this play out in his own day-to-day even though he lives in a more arid environment. The water delivery system provides the perfect environment for cattle to thrive — and unfortunately, parasites as well.

This means if producers like Adams want cattle to gain maximum value from the available forage, they must take deworming seriously.

“The prevalence of parasites is increased as compared to my neighbors across the fence,” Adams says. “Their incidents are typically less than what our management scheme allows for. I will deworm our cattle twice a year to combat the increased prevalence of parasites.”

Since Adams has taken initiative to stay on top of parasites, he has seen improvement in calf weights and overall health. He says the return on investment, by way of increased cattle performance, is positive.

YOUR CUSTOM

CUSTOM

YOUR RULES:

CATTLE HANDLING SYSTEMS DESIGNED FOR YOUR OPERATION

FIND

Help Wanted

Finding and retaining employees for the cattle industry.

By Jaclyn Roberts Parrish

American ranchers are struggling to find and retain labor. It’s a challenge that has grown exponentially in recent years.

John Haley, a Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association member who operates Haley Ranches based in Canadian, is one of many looking to find employees to meet diverse operational needs.

He lives on the ranch and is active in the day to day, while also balancing his job as market president at Happy State Bank. John says he needs two full-time employees to help manage the workload across the multi-family operation.

Between his father, Jim Haley, uncle, Jeff Haley, and cousin, Bill Haley, the Haley family has a footprint across

Hemphill, Gray, Lipscomb and Wheeler counties. The ranches consist of cow-calf herds and stocker cattle, alongside a farming operation of wheat and other forages for grazing.

The operation has deep roots in the Texas Panhandle. Haley Ranches includes the Shaller Ranch, which belonged to the family of John's paternal grandmother as far back as 1887. Until recently, the ranches employed two longtime ranch hands who became like family.

“Growing up, my cousin and I were somewhat raised by our ranch hands,” John says. “They both worked more than 25 years for us on the ranch in Gray County, and one worked here in Hemphill County where we shared a lot of work back and forth.”

Photo courtesy of Haley Ranches

The ranch hands, who were also brothers, retired nearly 10 years ago. John spent the next few years trying to fill the roles.

“Since they retired, we've had a few employees who had worked for five or six years,” he says. “One gentleman was older, and it was perhaps more than he wanted to take on long term.”

John admits the operation’s diversity of work can be a deterrent for some.

He points to examples, including continual management of a poly pipe water manifold system installed as a replacement for aging windmills, as well as an ongoing fight against invasive species across the rangeland.

“We constantly spray brush on our place,” he says, noting the need to be diligent. “I've seen places that if you don't keep the integrity in the ranch, you'll pay for it long term.”

The operation’s wheat fields also require much attention. As John candidly describes, asking a cowboy to drive a tractor does not always go over well.

“We have to hire accordingly because if we hire somebody that just wants to cowboy, he's going to be very upset,” he says. “We do a lot of things horseback, but there is a lot more to do when you manage a large business and asset while working to maintain good stewardship.”

When faced with limited options, John and his family, like many across the nation, turned to the H-2A visa program.

guest worker programs

The guest worker concept was first developed to address labor shortages in agriculture when farmers and ranchers were deployed to fight in World War I, World War II and the Korean War.

While the modern-day H-2A program has been refined, it continues to fill a labor gap on farms and ranches. Today, the program allows employers to bring agricultural workers from more than 90 qualifying countries to the U.S. to fill temporary or seasonal jobs.

Todd Miller is the owner and founder of Head Honchos, a San Antonio-based company that helps navigate guest worker programs and H-2A visas. When someone first inquires, he makes sure they understand the program’s basic principles.

This includes complying with the terms of the visa. Notably, H-2A permits guest workers to remain in the U.S. no longer than 10 months, at which time workers must return to their home countries.

In addition, there are prevailing wages. The federal government establishes wages by state to ensure H-2A workers are paid the same as domestic workers

Haley Ranches is a multi-family operation located in the Panhandle and consists of three active generations, including Bill and Lee Haley, pictured above, and John and JP Haley, pictured below. Photos courtesy of Haley Ranches.

and prevent employers from misusing the H-2A program to pay lower wages. This aims to preserve the market for domestic workers seeking the same jobs.

As of January 2024, the prevailing wage in Texas is $15.55 per hour, a rate Miller says ranchers need to understand going into any contract.

“Employers must agree to pay guest workers this wage at a minimum of 35 hours each week,” Miller says. “There is no maximum.”

Other requirements include providing workers’ compensation and compliant housing to all H-2A workers. In addition, employers must cover transportation to and from the workers’ hometowns at the start and conclusion of the contract.

“If it's Mexico, it's typically going to be a bus to Texas or a chartered van,” he says. “If it's South Africa, El Salvador or Guatemala, it’s going to be a plane ticket.”

Miller says cattle raisers who are interested in exploring the program should also understand that they may be called upon for an audit ensuring compliance with rules and regulations. That is in

addition to mandatory inspections before guest workers arrive.

“This is a bureaucratic process,” Miller says. “We try to take away the fear and the stress of it by helping with the bureaucracy, the paperwork, the appointments and everything that goes into it.”

In other words, Miller is in the business of compliance. He provides his clients with a a six-page list of requirements they must meet, as farmers and ranchers can face hefty fines for non-compliance.

“The truth is there's very little protection for ranchers,” Miller says. “The government is quick to make sure workers are taken care of and puts their thumb on ranchers and makes them toe the line.”

Despite the program’s strict nature, Miller says ranchers can be afforded some security within their contract by specifying the expectations and responsibilities in the job description, including rules for behavior and conduct.

“No drinking, smoking, drugs and you’ve got to be on time,” he offers as guidelines ranchers can define. “We make sure that we insulate the farmer as best we can.”

Addressing shortcomings

The popularity of the H-2A visa program is shedding light on the growing labor crisis.

Last year, the House Committee on Agriculture established a bipartisan Agricultural Working Group to better understand the challenges in today’s agricultural workforce and recommend policy changes to address shortcomings.

U.S. Rep. Monica De La Cruz, who represents District 15 of Texas, was a part of the group.

"The Agriculture Labor Working Group was an important way for a bipartisan group of ag committee members to work together and craft a solution that benefits the entire ag sector, instead of simply doing what might be best for partisan politicos,” says the South Texas native.

In November 2023, the working group submitted an interim report to the committee. This included findings from a survey where respondents felt domestic labor was inadequate.

“Today, domestic workers have become specialized in other workforces and have left the farming community, making it difficult to find local workers interested in field work,” a respondent said.

“When farms are remote, their chances to recruit good employees domestically greatly decrease,” reported another.

Data supports these assertions, especially in Texas.

The government requires employers to demonstrate there are not domestic workers willing or able to fill H-2A positions. Employers must promote each position through

official job boards for unemployed Americans, and even recruit and accept eligible referrals for U.S. workers beyond the guest worker’s hire date.

Yet, these jobs remain vacant.

In 2022, the U.S. Department of Labor certified more than 371,000 H-2A positions, a steep increase from the 48,000 certified positions in 2005. Texas ranked among the top 10 states utilizing the H-2A program in 2022.

Despite the popularity of the H-2A visa program, agriculture sectors have grievances. Namely, the program’s failure to account for the nonseasonal needs in industries like livestock.

This past March, De La Cruz, alongside other members of the Agricultural Labor Working Group, issued a final report with policy recommendations. The report featured 15 policies adopted with unanimous support.

Their report included notable policies that could benefit the cattle industry, including a recommendation to allow for year-round access to the H-2A program, and the need to simplify the application and compliance process. It also aimed to create reforms allowing the H-2A visa to cover employers that process and pack agricultural foods.

"The report proposed reforming the H-2A visa program to cover agricultural labor, including cooperative employers, involved in preparing and processing products like livestock, poultry, dairy, peanuts, sugar beets and sugarcane,” De La Cruz says. “This change aims to meet the labor needs of today's agriculture industry, including producers, ranchers, livestock markets, indoor agriculture and forestry."

The Haleys are not alone in needing labor, with 371,000 other U.S. agricultural employers facing similar challenges turning to the H-2A visa program in 2022. Photo courtesy of Haley Ranches.

H-2A in action

In 2023, Haley Ranches worked to bring two guest workers to the U.S. After facing challenges with an application, they received one guest worker, Jacques, from South Africa.

In the following weeks, Jacques familiarized himself with the nuances of Haley Ranches, learning where pastures were located and where equipment and supplies were stored.

He refined his skills on horseback and learned signs of sick cattle requiring veterinary care. Though Jacques’ onboarding process was similar to that of any new employee, there were some additional needs, like assimilating him to life on an American ranch.

“My dad brought him home from his flight and said, ‘Well, there's your house, door’s open,’” John says. “He looked at my dad questioningly and said, ‘Where's the compound?’”

The safety and security of the U.S. was a stark difference from that of South Africa.

“He's like, ‘Well, where's the fence?’ My dad responded, ‘What fence? There’s no fence.’”

John is hopeful the time investment pays off.

“We just don't know where they are coming from, as far as the society in South Africa and the insecurity they have,” he says. “A large driver of why we have great people coming over to help us is truly due to America, its safety and the ability to live your life without fear.”

coverage by staggering two positions during times of need.

TN Visa Program

With limitations to the H-2A program, cattle raisers may find solutions through other guest worker visa programs. This includes the TN visa program facilitating the temporary entry of highly-skilled foreign workers from Canada and Mexico.

The TN visa program was established under the North American Free Trade Agreement and continued under the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement. Unlike the H-2A visa program, a TN visa recipient can stay in the U.S. for up to three years and renew their visa indefinitely with adequate employment.

The TN visa program has other advantages over the H-2A program, too.

Farms or ranches seeking TN visa workers need not demonstrate they were unable to find a suitable U.S. worker to fill the vacant position. In addition, there is no prevailing wage.

The application is relatively quick and straightforward compared to the H-2A application and has flexibility allowing for multiple entries into the U.S.

Spouses and children under the age of 21 are also eligible for entry with the primary TN visa holder.

However, the program is limited to specific professionals and often requires workers to hold a bachelor’s degree at minimum and have professional experience in their desired industry. The NAFTA Advisor Manual lists agriculturists, animal scientists, animal breeders, nutritionists, soil scientists and veterinarians as qualified professionals.

The TN visa program application process differs from Canada to Mexico and can provide limited assurances prior to a worker’s arrival to the U.S. Canadians need only present the application and required documentation to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection officer at the designated port of entry, while Mexican visa applicants must apply through a U.S. embassy or consulate and partake in an immigration interview prior to being granted a visa.

More information is available online through the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services website.

By definition, H-2A visa holders temporarily support farms and ranches with planting, cultivating or harvesting crops, including livestock. Ranchers may achieve year-round

Jacques returned to Haley Ranches in 2024, after spending the required time back in South Africa. Today, Jacques works largely autonomously, setting his own schedule and handling everything from ranch maintenance to cattle work.

John says he and his family are happy with the decision to hire Jacques.

“This second year has been a breeze in comparison to the first, even though we had the fire that threw a major ripple in it,” John says.

Haley Ranches was a victim of the Smokehouse Creek wildfire in February, where they lost 18,000 acres of grassland, 58 miles of fence, 40 calves, a herd bull and five saddle horses, including Jacques’ favorite, whom he had become close to in the year prior.

The historic wildfire was a reminder of the physical and emotional challenges faced by those working in the ranching industry — and why securing labor can be a struggle.

“He said his first love in Texas has gone on,” John says. “He took that pretty hard.” T C

Corral Design Service

Jacques, above, is currently completing his second year with Haley Ranches, where John Haley says he is a great asset. “If you have great attitude and are wanting and willing to help, we can do a lot,” he says.

“Jacques is the epitome of that.” Photo courtesy of Haley Ranches.

LOOKING AHEAD TO 2025

By Melissa Hamilton, Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association executive director of government relations

Earlier this summer, Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association hosted its 2024 Summer Meeting. Members gathered in San Antonio on June 21-22 to establish a policy framework as we approach the 89th Regular Legislative Session in Texas.

The event continued on the progress of committee meetings held in May during the annual TSCRA Policy Conference in Fort Worth, which allowed members to propose, revise and renew policies for the association.

From these discussions, several issues rose to the top as priorities as we start planning for session.

The availability of cattle vaccinations was the first newly adopted policy. Fundamentally, the policy ensures access to effective and proven vaccines by supporting federal, state and private funding for vaccine research and manufacturing. Additionally, the policy supports the development of vaccine banks, like the National Animal Vaccine and Veterinary Countermeasures Bank, that help our industry respond to potential disease outbreaks.

In addition, association members adopted a new policy to modernize and improve the brand registration and renewal system in Texas.

Cattle brands have a long history as the primary method of identifying cattle ownership, and continue to play a vital role for Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association special rangers and other law enforcement.

The current system, however, is cumbersome and inefficient. The policy adopted by the committee supports modernizing the process of brand registration and renewal, while respecting the heritage of brand ownership in Texas and the current county-level system.

Policy also emerged on wildfire prevention, mitigation and response. This policy is a timely priority for our members who have suffered from wildfires.

Support for this change reaches beyond the association to countless other organizations and state legislators, including Rep. Ken King, who addressed attendees in San Antonio. King led the Texas House Investigative Committee on the Panhandle Wildfires. He shared a firm message: Things need to change. Look forward to progress here in the months ahead.

Issues on the federal level are top of mind, too. Border security continues to be a focus at both the federal and state levels. Our effort is also directed to the federal lifetime estate and gift tax exemption.

In 2017, provisions were passed under the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act that temporarily increased the lifetime estate and gift tax exemption, providing relief for agricultural producers and their families. The act’s current exemptions are set to expire in 2025, which would result in the estate tax exemption being cut in half. Congress must act to prevent this reduction. Many in Congress are advocating for the more permanent solution of a complete repeal of the lifetime estate and gift tax.

Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association plans to engage directly with Congress and through our affiliates with a renewed effort for permanent tax reform, which will provide long-term relief to cattle raisers.

As we prepare for the upcoming legislative session in Austin and continue our advocacy in Washington, D.C., one thing guides our work at Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association — our members. Together, we will ensure a bright future for Texas and the Southwest. T C

STANDING WITH US

U.S. Rep. Monica De La Cruz is the first Latina and first Republican to represent the 15th Congressional District of Texas in the U.S. House of Representatives.

In Congress, she is a champion for ranchers and landowners, border security, improved healthcare access for South Texans and an economy that works for American families.

She has authored, joint authored and supported legislation to protect and preserve the cattle industry. Most notably, continuing funding for the feral swine program, joining the act repealing the lifetime gift and estate tax, and most recently, engaging on the issue of the H2-A visa program to address ag labor shortages. She also introduced House Resolution 2420, the Cattle Fever Tick Eradication Program Enhancement Act, in an effort to combat cattle fever tick infestation in Texas.

of Representatives earlier this summer. This legislation calls attention to the economic losses suffered by Texas producers, as Mexico fails to comply with water delivery obligated under the treaty.

She is championing the enforcement of the 1944 Water Treaty with Mexico and introduced the Texas Agricultural Producers Assistance Act to the U.S. House

De La Cruz’s story is one of perseverance, determination and the power of faith. The granddaughter of a Mexican farmworker, she was raised by her single mother, Norma, in Brownsville. She grew up with a strong commitment to public service.

She attended the University of Texas at San Antonio, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in business administration. After graduation, De La Cruz enrolled at La Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México to study Spanish.

For 20-plus years, she led several successful small businesses in her community, including an insurance agency, which she ran until her election to Congress in 2022. A proud alumna of James Pace High School, De La Cruz is also an active member of her local church. She lives in Edinburg with her two children. T C

U.S. Rep. Monica De La Cruz

WHAT’S HAPPENING AT TSCRA

TSCRA SUMMER MEETING HIGHLIGHTS FROM SAN ANTONIO

Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association concluded its 2024 Summer Meeting on June 22, gathering the association’s board of directors, executive committee, four policy committees and its political action committee that laid the framework for the future of the association and the beef industry.

“As we approach the 89th Texas Legislative Session, we must strategically think about what is ahead for our industry,” said Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association President Carl Ray Polk Jr. “This effort must be guided by our membership, who have a vested interest in the future of land and livestock in the Southwest.”

Committee meetings held earlier this spring provided a platform where members presented and drafted policies. These were then presented to the board of directors who passed, updated and renewed these policies for issues including property tax, animal health vaccines, groundwater rights, and wildfire prevention, mitigation and response.

“Issues both at the state and federal level have far reaching impacts to ranchers, landowners and wildlife managers,” Polk said. “Working to ensure fundamental private property rights are protected, regulatory overreach is avoided and safeguards are in place to protect the industry are top of mind.”

The meeting provided a platform to discuss many of these issues.

Attendees heard from Rep. Ken King, chairman of the investigative committee on the Panhandle Wildfires, who discussed findings from the investigation and the need for policy to prevent future disasters.

Other speakers throughout the event included: Parks Brown, Uhl Fitzsimmons PLCC; Kent Bacus, National Cattlemen’s Beef Association; Elizabeth Rumley, National Agricultural Law Center; Stacey Steinbach, Texas Water Conservation Association; and Dr. Alex Turner, National Animal Disease Traceability and Veterinary Accreditation Center, Veterinary Services.

Posing for a photo during the recent summer meeting are, from left, TSCRA President Carl Ray Polk Jr.; Rep. Ken King; TSCRA First Vice President Stephen Diebel; TSCRA Second Vice President Dan Gattis; and TSCRA Director, Joe Leathers.

TSCRA Summer Meeting brought together more than 250 cattle raisers, landowners and wildlife managers. Pictured bottom right, attendees listen as Rep. Ken King shares an update on the upcoming legislative session and recent Panhandle wildfires.

The first-ever TSCRA Leadership Launch led high school students through the legislative process in Austin for a two-day immersive experience.

TSCRA CONCLUDES FIRST-EVER LEADERSHIP LAUNCH

Nine elite young leaders in the cattle industry traveled to Austin to advance their knowledge in legislative processes, undergo career development training and learn how government advocacy impacts the agricultural industry during Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association’s new event, TSCRA Leadership Launch.

Held May 30-31 in Austin, the immersive program gave students a front-row seat of policy in action by facilitating meetings with notable political figures

along with a hands-on opportunity to build their own political advertisement.

Participants were: William Chloupek, Dallas; Logyn Denbow, Weatherford; Mason Hall, Tyler; Mary Kate Hill, Nacogdoches; Cutter Hodges, Happy; Cooper Mau, Columbus; Ruth Nieto, Raymondville; Turner Sanders, Huntington; and Kylie Whitley, Madill, Oklahoma.

The program was made possible through the TSCRA Leadership Development Foundation.

2024 YOUNG CATTLE RAISERS CLAY SHOOT & DINNER REGISTRATION NOW OPEN

Registration is now open for the 2024 Young Cattle Raisers Clay Shoot & Dinner held 3 p.m. Sept. 21 at Joshua Creek Ranch in Boerne.

The event will bring together the next generation of ranchers, landowners, wildlife managers and others with a vested interest in the future of the Southwest. Young professionals aged 25-40 can connect with likeminded individuals to network, learn and enjoy the clay shooting, an open bar and dinner social.

Registration information is available at tscra.org/ leadership-development-foundation.

TSCRA REPRESENTED AT THE 2024 YOUNG CATTLEMEN’S CONFERENCE

Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association members Beau Lasater, Carlos Ochoa and Tucker Brown participated in the 2024 Young Cattlemen’s Conference held May 30 to June 6.

Hosted by the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, the program promotes development of young leaders in the beef industry.

Lasater is a fifth-generation rancher and vice president of operations at Isa Beefmasters LLC in San Angelo, where he raises registered Beefmaster cattle. He is a graduate of Texas Christian University with degrees in business information systems and supply chain management.

“I am deeply grateful to TSCRA for entrusting me with the opportunity to represent our association at NCBA’s Young Cattlemen’s Conference,” Lasater said. “It was a truly transformative experience that delivered what I was hoping to get out of it: invaluable knowledge that I will carry forward throughout my career, and friendships forged that will last a lifetime.”

Prior to returning to the ranch, Lasater worked in the corporate sector with Aldi and American Airlines. He returned to his roots to continue his family legacy as the great-grandson of Tom Lasater, founder of the Beefmaster breed. Lasater and his wife, Paige, have two children, Jaxon and Elizabeth.

Ochoa is the operations manager for Two Rivers Ranch in Sabinal where he oversees livestock, land stewardship and commercial hunting. The ranch produces highquality commercial beef, raising registered Beefmaster cattle and feeder-stocker steers.

Ochoa graduated from Texas A&M University with a degree in agriculture systems management and a minor in business administration. He is also a graduate of the Texas Christian University Ranch Management Program. Ochoa lives on the ranch with his fiancée, Emily, along with their working dogs and horses.

Brown is a sixth-generation rancher at R.A. Brown Ranch in Throckmorton and a graduate of Lubbock Christian University and Texas Christian University Ranch Management. He helps manage the family ranch, which raises and sells 800 registered bulls annually.

“YCC was the best trip I have ever taken,” Brown said. “It helped me see the big picture of the beef industry and importance of having a political voice that helps protect the industry that we love. My favorite part was learning from others from across the nation and building lifelong friendships.”

Brown, who has been recognized as the NCBA Beef Advocate of the Year, uses social media to promote American farmers and ranchers to his half-million followers. He and his wife, Karley, have two daughters, Rayley and Brooklyn, the seventh generation on their family ranch.

Lasater, Ochoa and Brown traveled to Denver, Nebraska, Ohio and Washington, D.C., during the eight-day program.

TSCRA WELCOMES SCHUMANN TO GOVERNMENT RELATIONS TEAM

Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association announced Peyton Schumann as the senior director of government relations on the Austin-based government relations team.

Schumann will work under the executive director of government relations, Melissa Hamilton, and alongside the director of policy and political communications, Paige Holbrooks.

Peyton Schumann

“Government relations is at the heart of Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association,” Hamilton said. “Our members understand the importance of having a strong presence in our state and federal government, which includes a team who understand and care about the issues impacting our industry.”

Schumann, of Novice, previously served as Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association director of government relations for four years, beginning in 2018.

His return comes from his most recent role as government relations specialist with the Texas General Land Office under Commissioner Dawn Buckingham, and he brings other political experience from the Texas Senate and Gov. Greg Abbott’s political campaign.

“It’s an honor to support our dedicated ranchers and landowners,” Schumann said. “I look forward to continuing my service and advocating for an industry that is so vital to our state’s heritage, future and economy.” T C

Carlos Ochoa, Beau Lasater and Tucker Brown, pictured from left to right, begin their week-long journey on the 2024 Young Cattlemen’s Conference at the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association headquarters in Denver.

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INDUSTRY BRIEFS

EXPLORE THE BEST OF BEEF

Texas Beef Council and its consumer-facing brand, Beef Loving Texans, have launched the Ultimate Beef Trail digital pass, a comprehensive guide to the best beef dishes throughout the Lone Star State.

The pass celebrates and showcases the diverse culinary landscape of Texas, highlighting restaurants that deliver exceptional beef experiences. The program will run through Oct. 31.

Individuals who download the Ultimate Beef Trail on their mobile devices and then check in at participating restaurants can win prizes, including stickers, bandanas, canvas bags, t-shirts, hats and tumblers. Participants will also be entered to win a grand prize of two tickets to the Ultimate Beef Loving Texans Smoke Lab, a class on smoking beef, and a weekend getaway in Austin.

The Ultimate Beef Trail builds upon the success of last year’s BBQuest — a Texas BBQ journey that encouraged people to experience delicious barbecue from the restaurants featured throughout all three seasons of Texas Beef Council’s popular streaming series.

“Texas has so many wonderful restaurants, all with their own unique flavor and atmosphere,” said Adriana Mora, the council’s manager of consumer marketing. “Last year, we enjoyed introducing Texans to the restaurants featured on BBQuest, and we knew we wanted to create another fun experience to encourage beef lovers — from city dwellers to beef producers and everyone in between — to try even more of the delicious beef meals Texas restaurants have to offer.”

Earlier in 2024, Texas Beef Council asked all beef-loving Texans to nominate their favorite restaurants, giving them the chance to be included on the Ultimate Beef Trail. The council received more than 600 restaurant nominations, demonstrating the passion that Texans far and wide feel for their favorite diners, bistros, cafes and barbecue joints.

Texas Beef Council will promote the pass on social media, at events and with targeted groups, including the Texas Beef Team. Various food and travel influencers will also spread the word on their own social media platforms.

“The Ultimate Beef Trail offers Texans the opportunity to engage with our Beef Loving Texans brand in a tangible way,” Mora said. “It allows us to tell a story of

how much Texans love beef through the number of pass downloads, restaurant check-ins, and prize redemptions. We’re able to develop a relationship that will encourage these consumers to eat beef, now and in the future.”

To download the Ultimate Beef Trail, visit beeflovingtexans.com/beeftrail.

CENSUS DATA REPORTS LATEST AG TRENDS

Oklahoma State University Extension specialists are evaluating numbers from the 2022 U.S. Census of Agriculture released earlier this year to follow the latest trends in agriculture.

Taken once every five years, the census counts the land and people involved in U.S. agricultural operations earning $1,000 or more in products raised or sold during the census year. The Census of Agriculture examines land use and ownership, production practices, income and expenditures, among other factors.

Amy Hagerman, Oklahoma State University Extension ag policy specialist, said the census is useful information that can help people better understand how county trends compare to the rest of the state or country.

Hagerman explained the data was collected in 2022 when drought riddled much of the southern Plains.

“We have to be careful when interpreting any decline in crop acreage or livestock numbers because the census is a snapshot in time [during drought],” she said.

She and Extension colleagues JJ Jones and Andrew Van Leuven identified the following takeaways in the latest U.S. Census of Agriculture.

Relative to the national average, Oklahoma had a greater decline in producers overall and a greater decline in agricultural land. In 2022, 21.4 million acres were used for pastureland, and 10.9 million acres were used for cropland, compared to 19.5 million acres and 11.7 million acres in 2017. In 1997, wheat made up 34% of cropland. By 2022, wheat was 24% of cropland — a decline of 51%.

“We need to understand the role of urbanization in land moving out of agriculture and determine if the usage of permanent ag easement programs is increasing,” Hagerman said. “That would indicate people are concerned about land removed from agricultural use. Is there an interest in preserving more land for ag in the future? This needs to be explored with research.”

Percentage changes in operation size and overall ag operations: The acreage of an ag operation in the Oklahoma City area is shrinking while other parts of the state, such as northwestern Oklahoma, are growing in operation size.

“The number of operations statewide is declining significantly more quickly than the total acres in agricultural operations, suggesting consolidation among operations,” Hagerman said.

Ag operations along the Interstate 44 corridor are increasing, especially for female producers. Female producers also account for a larger share in multi-producer operations, implying more partnerships.

Beef inventory and beef operations are declining, but the average herd size is increasing. Forty-six percent of people in Oklahoma who own cattle own less than 20 head. Seventy-five percent of cattle producers own less than 50 head.

“Smaller producers are growing beef for their own consumption or for show animals, student projects or for a hobby,” Hagerman said. “On the other hand, consolidated operations are multi-generational family farms with large herds. We’re seeing less middle-sized cattle herds because making the profit margin is difficult.”

Agricultural households report lower levels of broadband access in the northwestern part of the state compared to other areas of Oklahoma.

“I’m surprised to see broadband adoption numbers decrease slightly in the Panhandle,” said Brian Whitacre, Oklahoma State University Extension specialist in rural economic development. “Ever since COVID hit, we’ve seen those numbers increase as people realize how important broadband access is.”

Whitacre said Oklahoma has improved broadband access for residents statewide, and broadband adoption in agricultural households overall is growing. In fact, the percentage of all Oklahoma households with a broadband connection rose from 83.6% in 2019 to 88.6% in 2022 — an impressive 5% jump in three years.

The average age of an Oklahoma ag producer is the late 50s. The age is older in the Panhandle and younger in Central and Western Oklahoma.

“The average producer age has been trending up slightly or fairly flat for several census years, but the number of new and beginning producers replacing older ones or working alongside them in Northwest and Western Oklahoma is surprising,” Hagerman said. “It’s encouraging to see younger producers, especially in parts of the state with larger operations. That might be an indicator that people are returning to the farm.”

BEEF EXPORTS TREND HIGHER

April was a robust month for U.S. beef exports, which were the largest in 10 months and valued at just under $900 million. That is according to data released by USDA and compiled by the U.S. Meat Export Federation.

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April beef exports totaled 111,580 metric tons, up slightly from a year ago and the largest since June 2023. Export value increased 5% to $898.7 million, also the highest since June.

Shipments to Mexico reached the highest value in more than three years, while exports also trended higher year-over-year to several other Western Hemisphere markets, and to Japan and the Middle East.

Through the first four months of 2024, beef export value increased 5% year-over-year to $3.38 billion, despite a 3% decline in volume, at 423,445 metric tons.

“Mexico also continued to shine on the beef side, along with the Caribbean, Central America and the Middle East,” said Dan Halstrom, president and CEO of U.S. Meat Export Federation. “These markets are benefiting from foodservice demand and currency advantages compared to the main Asian markets.

“The headwinds in Asia remain formidable, but the tourism boom in Japan has helped solidify demand and exports have stabilized this year, despite the continued weakness in the yen and strong competition from Australia. Robust retail and e-commerce demand has helped U.S. chilled beef continue to dominate in Korea and Taiwan.”

Through April, U.S. beef accounted for 69% of Korea’s chilled imports and 72% for Taiwan.

AGRILIFE EXTENSION TEAM WINS TWO AWARDS FOR ‘WHERE’S THE BEEF?’ PROJECT

A team of Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service experts recently received two awards from Extension Risk Management Education for their work on the Where’s the Beef? Legal and Economic Considerations for Direct Beef Sales project related to direct meat sales.

The team won the ERME 2024 Outstanding Project Award — Southern Region, in addition to the Project of Excellence First Place Award from the University of Arkansas System for this project, which provided cattle producers with comprehensive, practical information on how to sell beef directly to the consumer.

The awards were presented at the 2024 Extension Risk Management Education National Conference held from April 9-11 in Salt Lake City. Conference attendees included educators, crop insurance agents, lenders and other agricultural professionals wanting to learn about how to help agricultural producers effectively manage the variety of risks associated with their operations.

“We were surprised and excited to learn we had won these awards from ERME,” said team member Tiffany Lashmett, J.D., AgriLife Extension specialist for agricultural law in the Department of Agricultural Economics based at the Texas A&M AgriLife Research and Extension Center in Amarillo.

“What began a few years ago with Scott Strawn, our AgriLife Extension agriculture and natural resources agent for Ochiltree County, looking for information about direct beef sales for some Panhandle producers, has turned into a one-of-a-kind program that has grown more than the team ever could have anticipated.”

Initially, Strawn asked Lashmet and Justin Benevidez, Ph.D., previously in the department of agricultural economics, to give a presentation on legal and economic issues surrounding direct beef sales. From there, the project snowballed.

“We had not worked on direct beef sales to this point, but we immediately knew this was a really hot topic for which there was virtually no information in the legal and economic realm for producers,” Lashmet said. “What began as that single county meeting has now turned into three grant awards, live programs, a video series and an online course. This project truly was a team effort.”

The handbook, Where’s the Beef? Legal and Economic Considerations for Direct Beef Sales, is a 100-page, oneof-a-kind publication that provides detailed information for practical use by cattle producers and operations.

Once the handbook was complete, the team presented multiple live programs in Fort Worth, Amarillo, Brenham, Conroe and Decatur. More than 700 people attended these workshops, which included topics such as labeling, licensing, budgeting, price-setting, risk management, storage and shipment.

Lashmet said demand for the information developed for the Where’s the Beef? project has continued to increase, and the team has received numerous requests for programs from AgriLife Extension county agents around the state. To meet that demand, the team is developing an online course and will host an in-person program in Bonham Nov. 22.

“Being able to reach over 700 producers at live programs and hundreds more with the handbook has been extremely rewarding,” Lashmet said. “The team looks forward to working together to develop new ways to get this information into the hands of even more Texas

BEEF EXPORTS EQUAL PRODUCER PROFIT

Industry experts weigh in on export potential in upcoming Ranching 101.

Join Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association for the upcoming Ranching 101 at 1 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 20.

During the hour-long Zoom webinar, industry experts will discuss the link between international markets and increased profitability for beef producers — and discover strategies to maximize export potential and navigate global trade challenges.

Enhance your understanding of how exports can significantly boost your bottom-line and ensure sustained growth in your beef production business. Interested members can register by scanning the QR code below.

The two featured speakers are John Hinners and Jason Bagley.

Hinners, senior vice president of industry relations at U.S. Meat Export Federation, will lead the conversation on headwinds, tailwinds and carcass value from exported cuts. He will also discuss the global efforts and on-the-ground work the federation does for American meat production. He’ll also cover how Checkoff dollars are invested, and highlight the collaboration and membership within U.S. Meat Export Federation to support these initiatives.

As vice president of beef resources at Texas Beef Council, Bagley serves Texas beef producers through Beef Quality Assurance, international marketing and research. His knowledge and experiences enable him to educate various audiences and partners within the beef industry. T C

John Hinners

Jason Bagley

Saturday • August 31, 2024 • 12 noon

Nixon Livestock Commission • Nixon Texas

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After running a sale history at the auction, Hyde discovered Blanchard, an employee of the victim, sold cattle each time the victim sold cattle. The checks written to Blanchard after the sale aligned with the missing livestock owned by the victim.

COAL COUNTY MAN ARRESTED FOR CATTLE THEFT

Mark Henry Blanchard charged with five counts of larceny of a domestic animal.

Mark Henry Blanchard, a resident of Tupelo, Oklahoma, was arrested and charged with five counts of larceny of a domestic animal after stealing cattle and selling them at local livestock auctions for profit.

The arrest comes after an investigation led by Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association Special Ranger Cody Hyde and the Coal County Sheriff’s Office looking into a possible cattle theft in Coal County after the victim reported his cattle missing.

Over the course of the investigation, Blanchard was questioned about the suspicious activity.

Blanchard ultimately confessed to unlawfully taking possession of four steers and one bull from a rural property located southwest of Tupelo and selling them without the owner’s knowledge throughout a period from January 2023 to March 2024.

Following his confession, Hyde arrested and booked Blanchard in the Coal County jail May 21.

Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association thanks the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Coal County Sheriff’s Department and Coal County District Attorney’s Office for their joint efforts in the investigation. T C

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Cody Hyde District 3

Region 3 Supervisor

TSCRA Special Ranger

Theft & Law

DISTRICT 1 — TEXAS PANHANDLE

Cattle missing in Hutchinson County.

Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association

Special Ranger Chris Ward reports 17 black cows, 10 black calves and one black bull missing off Highway 152 in Borger. The white-faced cows have a “Box M” brand, and the bull has a “Bar N” brand. The calves have no brands or markings. The cattle were last seen in November 2023.

Cattle missing in Hutchinson County.

Ward also reports 31 head of cows missing from a property near the intersection of Plemons Road and County Road V in Borger. The black cows range from 2 to 6 years old and have a “PLC” and “C Bar” brand. The cattle were last seen in early March.

Cattle missing in Hall County.

The special ranger reports four black cows missing from a property east of FM 658 in Estelline. The three- to fouryear-old cows are described as black or black with a white face and a “J Lazy S Connected” branded on their left hip. They were last seen June 3. Anyone with information on these cases is urged to contact Ward at 806-205-0119.

DISTRICT 2 — TEXAS PANHANDLE

Four steers missing in Lipscomb County.

Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association

Special Ranger Ben Eggleston reports four black steers missing from a property off State Highway 23 in Canadian. The steers weigh approximately 650 pounds and have “C” branded on their left hip. They were last seen May 11. Anyone with information on this case is urged to contact Eggleston at 888-830-2333.

DISTRICT 10 — NORTH TEXAS

Two Kawasaki mules and a Honda dirt bike stolen in Johnson County.

Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association

Special Ranger Robert Pemberton reports two Kawasaki mules and a Honda dirt bike stolen off Bethesda Road in Burleson. The stolen items are described as:

• 2015 Kawasaki 610 mule, dark green, VIN No. JK1AFEA16FB568445.

• 2015 Kawasaki 610 mule, dark green, VIN No. JK1AFEA12FB570306.

• 2003 Honda XR100R dirt bike, red and white, VIN No. JH2HE03033K202086.

The items were last seen April 14. Anyone with information on this case is urged to contact Pemberton at 903-450-3900.

DISTRICT 11 — NORTH CENTRAL TEXAS

Cattle missing in Marshall County, Oklahoma.

Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association

Special Ranger Brad Oliver reports 25 crossbred steers missing from a property off McMillian Road in Madill, Oklahoma. The 700-pound steers are branded with “Bar E” on their upper left hip and have a Bar E Cattle Company, four-digit purple ear tag in their left ear.

DISTRICT 12 — NORTHEAST TEXAS

Truck and trailer stolen in Johnson County.

Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association

Special Ranger Bo Fox reports a white Dodge Ram 3500 truck and black Texas Bragg dovetail trailer missing from a business off Industrial Boulevard in Cleburne. The stolen items are described as:

• 2016 white Dodge Ram 3500, 4x4, four-wheel drive, VIN: 3C63R3HL7GG254773, with black JI flatbed, black fuel transfer tank, DeWalt air compressor and large toolbox with tools.

• Black Texas Bragg 30′ triple-axle dovetail trailer with two fold-down ramps.

The truck and trailer were last seen May 28.

Update: The missing truck was recovered, but the trailer remains missing. Anyone with information on this case is urged to contact Fox at 903-348-9638.

DISTRICT 15 — CENTRAL TEXAS

Cattle missing in Lampasas County.

Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association

Special Ranger Marvin Wills reports 68 head of cattle missing off FM 580. The 68 cattle include heifers and steers weighing between 500 to 1,100 pounds and branded with “Rocking H.” Flash floods on the day and night of May 5 washed the cattle downstream. Some of the cattle have been located as far as 50 miles down the Lampasas River from their original location. Anyone with information on this case is urged to contact Wills at 254-223-2330.

DISTRICT 21 — EAST TEXAS

Hereford bull missing in Madison County.

Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association

Special Ranger Chace Fryar reports a Hereford bull missing off Blakeney Lane in Normangee. The threeyear-old bull has “reversed D with B” branded on his right hip. He was last seen in December 2023.

Angus cow missing in Limestone County.

Fryar reports a black Angus cow missing off FM 1245 West in Groesbeck. Last seen April 13, the cow weighs about 900 pounds and is branded with “Spur on LH.”

Theft & Law

DISTRICT 22 — EAST TEXAS

CountyLine squeeze chute stolen in Brazoria County.

Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association Special Ranger Brent Mast reports a gray CountyLine squeeze chute stolen from a property off FM Road 149. The chute was last seen May 20.

Four calves missing in Wharton County.

Mast also reports four Charolais-cross calves missing off D-A-M Road in El Campo. The calves weigh approximately 400 to 500 pounds and have an under-bit in their right ear. They were last seen April 1.

Brangus bull missing in Washington County.

The special ranger reports a Brangus bull missing from a property off FM 594 in Burton. Last seen May 10, he has “W2” over “104” over “J” branded on his left hip. Anyone

with information on these cases is urged to contact Mast at 936-714-6619.

DISTRICT 26 — CENTRAL TEXAS

Gooseneck trailer stolen in San Saba.

Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association Special Ranger Todd Jennings reports a 2023, 28-foot, dark grey Gooseneck livestock trailer stolen from the sale barn off Highway 190 in San Saba. The VIN No. is 16GS6283XPB078524, and it has no license plate. The trailer was stolen May 19 at approximately 2:05 a.m. Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact Jennings at 830-997-7585. T C

TSCRA offers a cash reward for information leading to the arrest and/or grand jury indictment of individuals for theft of livestock or related property. Anonymity is guaranteed. To provide information, call the Operation Cow Thief tip line at 817-916-1775.

LEASING LOGIC

Ag lawyer advises on navigating lease agreements.

By Karlee Busher

From the Hill Country to the Great Plains, the state of Texas stretches 269,000 square miles and provides about 126 million acres of usable agricultural land. The diverse terrain and versatile climate make the state a production powerhouse, ranking it first in the nation for the number of ranches and farms according to the USDA.

Leasing land for agricultural production plays a vital role in the industry, as it creates an opportunity for expansion without the financial burden of buying land.

Navigating the ins and outs of a lease agreement that is beneficial for both parties can be an intricate process. That is according to Kyle Weldon, an attorney with James D. Bradbury PLLC, who spoke during a virtual Ranching 101 session held in 2023.

Grazing Leases

Regarding agricultural leases, he defined a leasehold estate as a possessory interest in land that provides the lessee with rights of possession to use the land, but does not grant ownership.

“Land leases for grazing purposes benefit both parties in the lease agreement by permitting the lessee to run livestock on land without acquiring the longterm debt associated with purchasing land,” Weldon said. “In turn, lease agreements give landowners an additional source of income and can provide the benefit of an ag-use property tax valuation.”

Ranching 101 is a monthly educational series presented by Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association, where an industry expert conducts an online classroom to offer insight and advice.

In the session titled Lease Land Logic, Weldon covered many of the fundamentals that should be considered when leasing or renting ground relating to grazing, agricultural production, and hunting activities.

All lease agreements are as unique as the land they sit on, and they are determined by the lessee and lessor. Weldon said a successful agreement serves as the foundation for navigating any future challenges that may arise.

“Anytime I work on an agreement with someone, I always encourage them to think through the what-ifs, the hard questions and the worst-case scenarios — while the water is smooth,” Weldon said. “If you have a watertight and well-thought-through agreement upfront while the water’s calm, you’re going to be in much better shape if challenges are faced in the future.”

Kyle Weldon

Photo by Craig Kelly

Ranching

Get it in writing

Generally, an oral contract is valid under Texas law. However, Weldon explained the statute of frauds requires that certain agreements, including a lease of property lasting one year or more, be in writing to be enforceable. This is where the details matter.

“There is not a one-size-fits-all contract, but I encourage you to write down the more important pieces of your lease as you’re negotiating and putting these agreements in place,” Weldon said.

A grazing lease should include the names of all parties, as well as a definitive property boundary. In addition, the lease should define certain terms including start date, duration, renewal and exit options.

A negotiated form and amount of payment also needs to be in the lease, as well as specifications identifying the property’s stocking rates.

“Stocking rate is one of the most important terms to have in a grazing lease,” Weldon said. “This is the number of head per acre or the number of animal units per acre that you are going to allow on the property. Having this agreement not only provides guidelines for the lessee, but it is a vital factor in ensuring land is not overgrazed.”

Considering the variability in rainfall in Texas, setting out how a stocking rate will be adjusted based on conditions, and how supplemental hay and feed may be provided should be addressed by the lease.

Other discussion points should include the use, repair and inspection of property facilities. For example, identifying who is responsible for the upkeep of corrals, barns and fences, and how any related expenses may be handled will be important.

Also, an absentee landowner may want to clarify that the tenant will be responsible for checking and repairing fences, and keeping gates closed, in order to prevent livestock from getting out onto roadways or on neighboring properties.

Weldon says transferability should also be spelled out in a lease agreement. Considering the importance of knowing who you are contracting with, a landowner may not want to allow its tenant to transfer to a third party who steps into the lease without his or her prior approval.

Another important issue to be aware of when leasing agricultural land is that there may be other surface uses impacting a lease. For example, oil and gas activities may be conducted on the property, meaning there might be other third parties coming and going from the property.

There is not a one-size-fits-all contract, but I encourage you to write down the more important pieces of your lease as you’re negotiating and putting these agreements in place.”

— Kyle Weldon, James D. Bradbury PLLC

Ranching

Hunting Leases

Weldon also provided thoughts related to hunting leases, which are another important potential revenue stream for landowners. While frequently referred to as a lease, a hunting lease is actually a license by which a hunter pays the landowner for the right to hunt on his or her land.

Similar to grazing leases, a variety of factors affect how these agreements are written, including the season and game that can be hunted, the ability to use vehicles or all-terrain vehicles, the means and methods of hunting, and specifications regarding any portions of the property that might be off limits. For example, around pastures where livestock are located or facilities.

The inclusion of liability protections, including required insurance, waivers and the specific language to qualify for landowner liability statutes are also critical. And clearly defining who has access to the property to hunt is important. For example, is it just the signor of the lease or can they bring others with them?

With 86% of Texas land dedicated to production agriculture, lease land arrangements have become a pivotal part of not only its farming economy, but also the industry overall.

Navigating the complexities of lease agreements requires careful consideration and intentional preparation. By addressing essential details like property boundaries, stocking rates and provisions for unforeseen circumstances upfront, both parties can minimize risk and maximize profitability and success within their operations.

“Ben Franklin was famous for saying, ‘An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure,’ and that’s very true,” Weldon said. “Especially in terms of approaching any lease agreement.” T C

Karlee Busher is a summer intern for Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association. Originally from Winters, she is a recent agricultural communications graduate from Texas Tech University.

Cactus Feedyard

Matthew Turney, Manager

Cactus, TX office: (806) 966-5151 cell: (806) 282-7077

Centerfire Feedyard

Adam Gerrond, Manager Ulysses, KS office: (620) 356-2010 cell: (806) 390-9034

When Our Folks Drive Through the Gate They Think and Act Like Owners Because They Are Owners - They Have a Vested Interest in the Cattle They Care For

Frontier Feedyard

Jon Vanwey, Manager Spearman, TX office: (806) 882-4251 cell: (719) 251-2381

Stratford Feedyard

Pistol Audrain, Manager Stratford, TX office: (806) 396-5501 cell: (806) 753-7133

Southwest Feedyard

Kacey Graham, Manager Hereford, TX office: (806) 364-0693 cell: (806) 316-8799

Hale Center Feedyard

Rusty Jackson, Manager

Hale Center, TX office: (806) 879-2104 cell: (806) 773-9457

Wolf Creek Feedyard

Keith Brinson, Manager Perryton, TX office: (806) 435-5697

cell: (806) 282-7588

Wrangler Feedyard

Randy Shields, Manager Tulia, TX

office: (806) 583-2131

cell: (806) 290-0559

(719) 346-8532

(620) 575-6702

Ulysses Feedyard

Adam Gerrond, Manager Ulysses, KS office: (620) 356-1750 cell: (806) 390-9034

Syracuse Feedyard

Phil Moreman, Manager

Syracuse, KS

office: (620) 384-7431 cell: (806) 340-4790

(806) 371-4715

WHAT PLANT IS IMPORTANT FOR THE MONTH OF AUGUST?

Knotgrass (Paspalum distichum)

By Kent Ferguson

Photo by Ron Vanderhoff

Found throughout the southern U.S., Knotgrass is a perennial, warm season, sod-forming grass often found around the edges of ponds, streams or waterways. It can also climb into the water.

The plant:

• Has an above-ground stem, or culm, 6 to 24 inches long, and roots at the nodes.

• Reproduces by seed, stolons, rhizomes, and will produce seed from June until late fall.

• Produces a seedhead with two branches, paired or barely separated, with two rows of seed each.

Knotgrass is palatable to grazing livestock and can be eliminated from the pasture by overgrazing. The seed is also utilized by many species of waterfowl.

Because Knotgrass is beneficial at catching sediment in streams and waterways, it is valuable for stream-side stabilization.

Its excellent erosion control has been documented by the fact that one cubic foot of soil can produce 18 miles of roots.

Knotgrass can be managed by properly using fences and limiting livestock access to riparian areas and drinking points. T C

Kent Ferguson, a retired rangeland management specialist from the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, provides plant identification photo stories to help ranchers

In key locations across Texas, Oklahoma and New Mexico, Helena has branches staffed with people who can provide landowners, ranchers and wildlife enthusiasts with all their management needs.

For more information, contact your local Helena representative or visit HelenaAgri.com.

BQA TIP: LET FORAGES GROW

When grazing perennial forages, it is critical to leave a certain amount behind to help the plant regrow and ensure a robust root mass. The minimum amount of forage needed will vary depending on the species and rainfall.

Native species like little bluestem, big bluestem, Indiangrass, switchgrass, blue grama, side oats grama, buffalograss and others are more sensitive to overgrazing. In these instances, a good approach is to allow cattle to only consume 25% of the forage.

In areas with higher annual rainfall, it may be appropriate to let cattle consume 65% to 70% of the produced forage from introduced species like bermudagrass and bahiagrass. T C

Photo by Jerod Foster

CAN YOU SMELL HOW MEAT TASTES?

The science behind cooking aromas and their flavorful secrets.

By Kay Ledbetter

Photos courtesy of Texas A&M AgriLife

The aroma of grilled meat wafting across the backyard can make your mouth water as you seem to almost taste the steak from the grill.

But did you know there is an actual science behind why that happens?

Chris Kerth, Ph.D., associate professor of meat science and muscle biology in the Texas A&M University College of Agriculture and Life Sciences Department of Animal Science, has spent more than 12 years researching flavor aromas, and how good and bad odors correlate with our perception of flavors.

For example, when you smell a steak cooking, Kerth explains how you are smelling the volatile chemical compounds that it emits in reaction to the heat. It is those chemical compounds he detects and quantitates in his scientific research.

Some of those smells and odors, like grilled flavor, result in positive responses like: “I am hungry, and I want to eat this.”

There are also odors like soured milk that result in negative responses. If you smell those odors, then you likely will not want to eat the product as they tend to be indicators of poor quality.

The science behind the smell

Kerth’s primary research interests include animal nutrition, management and genetic factors related to flavor chemistry and the development of aromas that impact the sensory and quality traits in meat, food and beverage products.

By sticking a specialized needle into a container with food or beverage and allowing it to absorb the aromas before putting it into a gas chromatograph, he can capture the compounds or chemicals from the meat or beverage to be separated, identified and quantified.

When it is done, Kerth knows what chemical is responsible for what aroma.

“Often when we talk about food and how it tastes, we mostly talk about tenderness or texture,” he said. “But about 12 years ago, I became interested in determining how to objectively measure flavor.”

The concept of measuring the flavor of food is much more complex than simply measuring tenderness or juiciness, and it requires specialized equipment.

Being able to characterize the differences is important, Kerth said.

For instance, chemicals containing sulfur compounds can be associated with a bad smell like rotten eggs. But, in small quantities, sulfur has a pleasant odor to it, contributing to the meat flavor.

“Once we were able to identify and quantify the different chemicals, we started working with the meat itself to find ways to increase the good aromas and decrease the bad aromas,” he said.

Kerth began working with Rhonda Miller, Ph.D., Texas A&M AgriLife Research Faculty Fellow and meat science professor in the department, on the sensory side of food tastes. She would conduct expert, trained sensory panels and consumer panels to identify factors that influence their evaluations of taste based on mouthfeel.

Then, after evaluating those results, they could distinguish between the volatile aroma chemicals that consumers did and didn’t like.

A little fat reverse engineering

From a chemistry standpoint, Kerth said much of the aroma comes from either the breakdown of fat or the surface browning, which requires protein and sugars naturally found in meat. And that is determined by the cooking method and how much heat is involved.

Beyond Our Gates

“The more heat we apply, the more those flavors will be generated,” he said. “Bacon out of the package doesn’t smell like much, but once it starts cooking, the whole house smells like bacon. So, cookery is hugely important in generating the aromas and flavors we want.”

Kerth went a step further, and concentrated on the grill temperature.

“When you put that piece of meat on the grill, whether it is a gas grill or charcoal grill or a flat top in a commercial kitchen, the temperature of that grill is very important because we want that sear on the outside,” he said. “Imagine the difference in flavor between a pot roast from a Crock-Pot with no browning and a steak with a nice sear from a hot grill.”

While it is important the meat be cooked to the level the consumer is seeking, controlling how much browning is on the outside is also important — and challenging. Getting that nice sear without overcooking is both an art and a science.

“Whenever we’ve done these studies where we’ve changed the grill temperature, the more char we get, the better — up to a certain point,” Kerth said. “If you have really thick steaks, you can actually overdo it and get too much browning, which can turn consumers off. So, there’s a window in there you want to hit.”

food flavor requires specialized equipment like a gas chromatograph to capture the aroma compounds from food products to be separated, identified and quantified.

In the end, he said, it’s the combination of our senses — taste, texture and aroma — that when brought together in the right combination helps you have an even greater eating experience. T C

Kay Ledbetter is a communications coordinator for Texas A&M AgriLife.

REDS RISING

Measuring

STAYING Connected

From balancing budgets to weaning calves, TSCRA Director Wesley Welch carries on a ranching legacy.

By Shelby Kirton

Wesley Welch’s journey in the cattle industry is a testament to hard work, dedication and a love for the land.

The president and CEO of Spade Ranches in the Texas Panhandle grew up in a family deeply rooted in cattle raising, where he inherited his commitment to the ranching community. From a childhood spent wrangling cattle with his brothers in the rugged terrains of Colorado to leading one of Texas’s most historic ranching operations, Welch’s path is a blend of careful planning and facing unpredictable challenges.

Welch and his brothers spent their childhood immersed in the family’s Eastern Colorado stocker operation.

“We grazed cattle from May to September,” he says. “By middle school and high school, my dad used us as his ranch help, cowboying, doctoring and rotating the steers.”

After high school, he attended Texas A&M University, where he graduated magna cum laude with a bachelor’s degree in agricultural economics in 2004. Spurred by his father’s job with Spade Ranches, which moved the family to Lubbock in 2002, Welch sought a role in the Texas cattle industry post-graduation.

“I was looking for a way to get plugged into the industry, specifically in Texas,” he says.

Welch’s professional life is a blend of office work and hands-on ranching.

“A lot of my time is spent communicating with the owners and directors of the ranches, developing budgets and managing risks,” he says. “But on days we’re working at the ranch, whether branding or weaning, I’m out there doing the work, too.”

He also works alongside his brothers, Andy and Bob, to operate a stocker operation, sourcing cattle in Texas for the winter and summering them in Monument, Colorado, where the cattle come off grass in September.

Additionally, he helps his parents and brothers run Welch Cattle Co., a cow-calf operation with locations in Colorado and Montana.

He says this balance keeps him connected to the land and the livestock, which is vital for his role.

Established in 1889, Spade Ranches has maintained a legacy of progressive ranching practices from crossfencing to rotational grazing and cross-breeding systems. Under Welch’s leadership, Spade Ranches

continues to uphold its long legacy and involvement with Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association.

Welch’s involvement in the association began shortly after college, initially through membership and attending annual conventions. In 2012, he took on a leadership role when he became a member of the board of directors.

In addition, Welch has served on the marketing and transportation committee and is currently on the cattle health and well-being committee, previously serving as chairman. As a leader, he is driven by a desire to address the challenges faced by the cattle industry.

“As society becomes more removed from food production, there’s a lot of misconceptions about what we do,” he says. “TSCRA does a great job of being the face of the industry in Texas, projecting our image and educating the public and lawmakers about our work.”

Welch is optimistic, yet realistic about the future.

“I hope the industry continues to be profitable and viable for generations to come,” he says. “The values this industry instills in the younger generation — the sense of hard work and dedication — are some of its biggest benefits.”

Welch and his wife, Makenzie, have three children: Maggie, Owen and Charles. The family enjoys traveling and working together on the ranch. T C

Wesley and his wife, Makenzie, are teaching their children the importance of stewardship and instilling a passion for the cattle industry. Courtesy photo.

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CARL RAY POLK JR. President P.O. Box 155108 Lufkin, Texas 75915

STEPHEN DIEBEL

First Vice President 3907 Salem Rd. Victoria, Texas 77904

PAST PRESIDENTS

John M. “Jack” Shelton III Amarillo, 1984-1986

James L. Powell San Angelo, 1988-1990

Tom Beard Alpine, 1994-1995

C. Coney Burgess Amarillo, 1997-1999

J. Mark McLaughlin San Angelo, 1999-2001

John E. Dudley Comanche, 2001-2003

Bob McCan Victoria, 2003-2005

C.R. “Dick” Sherron Beaumont, 2005-2007

Jon Means Van Horn, 2007-2009

Dave Scott Richmond, 2009-2011

Joe J. Parker Byers, 2011-2013

Pete Bonds Saginaw, 2013-2016

Richard Thorpe lll Winters, 2016-2018

Robert E. McKnight Jr. Fort Davis, 2018-2020

G. Hughes Abell Austin, 2020-2022

Arthur G. Uhl III San Antonio, 2022-2024

HONORARY

VICE PRESIDENTS

Jack Hunt San Juan Capistrano, California

Richard Wortham Austin

EXECUTIVE STAFF HEADQUARTERS

P.O. Box 101988 Fort Worth, Texas 76185 817-332-7064 • 800-242-7820

Jason Skaggs Executive Vice President/ Chief Executive Officer

Jaclyn Roberts Parrish Executive Director, Communications & Marketing

DAN GATTIS

Second Vice President and Secretary/Treasurer 213B W. 8th St. Georgetown, Texas 78626

Emily Lochner

Executive Director, Leadership Development & Education

Grace Dunham Executive Director, Events & Partnerships

Megan Wills Executive Director, Finance & Human Resources

Michele Woodham Executive Director, Insurance Services

Scott Williamson Executive Director, Law Enforcement, Brand & Inspection Services

Lisa Walker Executive Director, Membership & Operations

GOVERNMENT RELATIONS

919 Congress Ave., Suite 750 Austin, Texas 78701 512-469-0171

Melissa Hamilton Executive Director, Government Relations

Davis College is empowering the future of ranch management through combining natural resources management, economics, and animal sciences. Through the Texas Tech Ranch Management Program, students will earn a master’s degree through classroom training and boots-on-the-ground experiences.

To learn more, contact: Dr. Clint Rusk, Executive Director of the Texas Tech Ranch Management Program CLRusk@ttu edu | (765) 491 9437

Apply Here: https://www.depts.ttu.edu/gradschool/

REGION 1

DIRECTORS

Joe M. “Jody” Bellah, Throckmorton

Blake Birdwell, Canyon

E. S. F. “Swasey” Brainard II, Pampa

J. K. “Rooter” Brite Jr., Bowie

Donnell Brown, Throckmorton

Campbell Burgess, Amarillo

Deborah Clark, Henrietta

Lynn Cowden, Skellytown

J. B. Daniel, Crowell

James Henderson, Memphis

Clayton Henry, Wichita Falls

Brooks Hodges, Guthrie

Joe Leathers, Guthrie

Frank McLelland, Tahoka

Jeff Mitchell, Amarillo

Gage Moorhouse, Benjamin

Diaz W. Murray, Wichita Falls

J. Malcolm Shelton IV, Amarillo

Dale A. Smith, Amarillo

Jim Thompson, Breckenridge

Ross Thompson, Iowa Park

Wesley Welch, Lubbock

HONORARY DIRECTORS

William L. “Buck” Arrington, Pampa Van Baize, Nocona

Emry Birdwell Jr., Henrietta

Mary Lou Bradley-Henderson, Childress

R. A. “Rob” Brown Jr., Throckmorton

J. D. Cage, Muleshoe

Mike Gibson, Paducah

Ronald J. “Ron” Gill, Chico

Robert B. Mansfield, Amarillo

Tom Moorhouse, Benjamin

Boots O’Neal, Guthrie

James Palmer, Roaring Springs

Wilson Scaling, Henrietta

Chris Scharbauer, Amarillo

Tom Watson, Muleshoe

John Welch, Wolfforth

A. B. “Buck” Wharton III, Vernon

Tom Woodward, Decatur

REGION 2

DIRECTORS

Kevin Busher, Winters

Charles M. “Charley” Christensen Jr., San Angelo

C.A. “Chili” Cole IV, San Angelo

Alan F. Curry, San Angelo

James H. Dudley IV, Horseshoe Bay

Amanda Dyer, Fort Davis

Johnny Ferguson, Big Lake

D.A. “Day” Harral, Fort Stockton

Ron Helm, Van Horn

Heath Hemphill, Coleman

Shelby W. Horn, Fredericksburg

Larry R. Horwood, Sterling City

Grant Jones, Rochelle

Mark W. Jones, Brady

W. Clay Jones, Brady

Ty Keeling, Boerne

Lorenzo Lasater, San Angelo

Brian T. McLaughlin, Midland

David L. Neal, San Angelo

Gerald Nobles Jr., Brady

James Oliver, Ozona

Wade Perks, San Angelo

Jessica Tate, Marfa

James Uhl, Fort McKavett

Cody Webb, Barnhart

Ken Welch, Baird

Ray W. Willoughby III, Eldorado

HONORARY DIRECTORS

C. A. “Chip” Cole III, San Angelo

William C. “Billito” Donnell Jr., Alpine

Richard Gates, Marfa

W. H. “Billy” Green III, Albany

Rafe Hargrove, Rotan

Dr. Joe Pat Hemphill, Coleman

Ken Jordan, San Saba

Don Keeling, Fredericksburg

Chris Lacy, Fort Davis

Laurence M. Lasater, San Angelo

Ben Love, Marathon

Len P. Mertz, San Angelo

Tom Perini, Buffalo Gap

Bill Phinizy, Gail

Frank Price, Sterling City

Gordon E. Sauer, Fredericksburg

Danny B. Stewart, Sterling City

Rick Tate, Marfa

Cliff Teinert, Albany

Dennis W. Webb, Barnhart

W. C. “Billy” Williams, Mertzon

REGION 3

DIRECTORS

Ford Drummond, Pawhuska, Oklahoma

HONORARY DIRECTORS

Les Nunn, Pauls Valley, Oklahoma

REGION 4

DIRECTORS

Edward Bordovsky Jr., Riviera

Austin Brown III, Beeville

W. Christopher Bush, Refugio

James Clement lll, Kingsville

David S. Crow, Corpus Christi

Dustin Dean, Floresville

David DeLaney, Kingsville

Robert “Bobby” Dobson, Birmingham, Alabama

James L. “Jamie” Donnell Jr., Fowlerton

J. David Eppright, Cost

Benjamin Eshleman III, Corpus Christi

Joseph B.C. Fitzsimons, Carrizo Springs

Cody Fry, Lueders

Jim L. Gates, Pearsall

Milton S. Greeson Jr., Victoria

Bret Griffith, Del Rio

Heath Grigg, Kingsville

Marty R. Harris, Tilden

Anson Howard, San Antonio

Leslie Kinsel, Cotulla

Claude Koontz, San Antonio

Steven J. Mafrige, Tilden

Richard Marbach, Victoria

Beth Knolle Naiser, Sandia

Federico Nieto, Raymondville

T. Michael O’Connor, Victoria

Jason Peeler, Floresville

J.R. Ramirez, La Pryor

Gilly Riojas, Corpus Christi

Michael Sasser, Corpus Christi

Lew Thompson, Pearsall

C. Clark Welder, Beeville

John Zacek, Victoria

HONORARY DIRECTORS

Steve G. Beever, Pearsall

Richard H. Bennett, San Antonio

Chip Briscoe, Carrizo Springs

Martin W. Clement II, Kingsville

Thurman S. Clements Jr., Victoria

Nixon Dillard, Pleasanton

Trainor Evans, Mercedes

Thomas J. “Tommy” Haegelin, Concan

Dr. Philip C. Hardee, Beatrice, Alabama

Allen C. “Dick” Jones IV, Corpus Christi

David W. Killam, Laredo

Dan W. Kinsel III, Cotulla

Steve C. Lewis, San Antonio

Jim McAdams, Seguin

James A. McAllen, Linn

Tim Pennell, Westhoff

Jim Peters, Quemado

Scott Petty Jr., San Antonio

Tom Risinger, Weslaco

M. Stuart Sasser, Corpus Christi

Frates Seeligson Jr., San Antonio

Richard Traylor, Batesville

Roger F. Welder, Victoria

David W. Winters, Del Rio

REGION 5

DIRECTORS

Bill Cawley, Crockett

Wayne Cockrell, College Station

Herff Cornelius Jr., Wadsworth

Carlos Detering III, Houston

Gardner H. Dudley, Houston

Lloyd French IV, Houston

Dan Gattis, Georgetown

Kelley Sullivan Georgiades, College Station

George Harrison, Bay City

Robert Hodgen, Houston

Colt Hoffman, Marlin

Clay Kenley, Crockett

Clive Runnells III, Austin

John Sumner Runnells III, Bay City

Tony Spears, Rosanky

John “Rocky” Sullivan, Galveston

Claudia Scott Wright, Richmond

HONORARY DIRECTORS

Jay C. Evans, Dripping Springs

Leroy Ezer, Anahuac

Frank Green, Liberty

Tom J. Haynie, Navasota

Coleman H. Locke, Hungerford

Katharine Armstrong Love, Austin

Richard M. Lucas Jr., Houston

William “Alan” McNeill, Beaumont

Evalyn Moore, Richmond

Raymond E. Moore IV, Richmond

Rick Peebles, Baytown

Gary Price, Blooming Grove

Gordon Richardson, Caldwell

Charles R. “Butch” Robinson, Navasota

Nolan Ryan, Round Rock

Ed Small, Austin

Guy F. Stovall Jr., El Campo

Gerald Sullivan, Galveston

John L. Sullivan, Galveston

Robert J. Underbrink, Houston

Beau Brite White, Rosanky

Dr. M. R. “Mike” Wirtz, Brenham

REGION 6

DIRECTORS

April Bonds, Saginaw

Missy Bonds, Saginaw

John L. Cantrell, Cresson

Ian Chapman, Madill, Oklahoma

Hunter Crow, Dallas

James T. Dangelmayr, Muenster

Seth Denbow, Weatherford

Crawford Edwards, Fort Worth

John Greer, Henrietta

Jason Harlow, Dallas

Pete Hudgins, Sherman

Tom Johnson, Wortham

Ken Leiber, Fort Worth

Stefan Marchman, Fort Worth

William H. McCall, Fort Worth

Dan Nance, Haslet

Susan Roach, Fort Worth

Stephen S. “Steve” Sikes, Fort Worth

Bragg Smith III, Dallas

Curtis Younts Jr., Belton

HONORARY DIRECTORS

Bradford S. “Brad” Barnes, Fort Worth

George Beggs IV, Fort Worth

John W. Carpenter III, Dallas

Barrett D. Clark, Breckenridge

Markham B. Dossett, Waco

Bob Drake, Davis, Oklahoma

James H. “Jim” Dudley, Comanche

John Z. Kimberlin Jr., Dallas

James E. “Jim” Link, Crowley

Jon David Mayfield, Dublin

C. H. “Terry” McCall, Comanche

Bob Moorhouse, Weatherford

Russell “Rusty” Noble, Ardmore, Oklahoma

Mary Joe Reynolds-Montgomery, Fort Worth

Tom L. Roach III, Bozeman, Montana

Stephen T. “Steve” Swenson, Dallas

Bart Wulff, Dallas

REGIONS & DISTRICTS

TSCRA Special Rangers

New Members

3T Ranch

Carbon

44 Farms Telephone Alsup Weatherford

Carsyn Barnett Aledo

Ricky Black Friona

Blackjack Ridge Cattle Co. Lexington, Oklahoma

Nancy Bonilla Era

Ernest Cagle Tyler

Jamisen Capps Hempstead

Casey Ranches LLC Alamo Heights

Clinton Cooley Wichita Falls

Andrew Conley Pavo, Georgia

Richard Conway II Abilene

Alyssa Cruz Carrizo Springs

Trace Davis May

Addison Donalson Refugio

Double J&B Ranch Plano

Bo Fajkus Pineland

Keaton Fohn Harlingen

Lexi Foster Coleman

Friar-Sheppard Ranch Cuero

Jaime Garza Beeville

Lane Henneman Tom Bean

Todd & Marlo Holbrooks Gail

Mitch & Shelly Holt Graham

Johnson Ranch La Pryor

JPCKK LLC Georgetown

Lane King Millsap

Lasswell Ranch Fair Oaks Ranch

Jeff & JoAnn Lee Gardendale

Legacy H Ranch Luling

Dudley Lohse Skidmore

Savannah Martin Graford

M5 Ranch Valley Mills

MB Ranch Kopperl

David McDonald McLean

Grant McKay Deer Park

Jacob Medve Richmond

Floyd Mercer Troy

Morgan Farm & Ranch Nome

Roger Mora Poolville

Peace Hills Farm Brashear

PWJ Ranch Hondo

Red River Horse & Tack Savoy

Redwine Farm Chico

Nathan Riley Dripping Springs

Rockin’ K Quitman

Edgar Rubio Mineola

David Rumfield Buffalo Ruppanner Cattle Co. Midland

Salarita Cattle Co. Sealy

Brooke Smith Santo

Gregg Smith Fort Worth

Roy Smith Pavo, Georgia

Stewart Livestock Weatherford

Lee Stricker Greenville

Carter Thurmond Austin

Julie & Lee Underwood Ivanhoe

Kindell Whisenant Skiatook, Oklahoma

W-4 Cattle Co. Brazoria

Fertility

Elite

Hoof

Colostrum

Auction Markets & Market Inspectors

ANDERSON

Elkhart Horse Auction

Where: Elkhart

Phone: 903-764-1495

Sale Day: Saturday

Contact: Tiffany Patterson, 903-388-7288

ATASCOSA

Atascosa Livestock Exchange

Where: Pleasanton Phone: 830-281-2516

Sale Day: Tuesday

Contact: Marvin Bendele, 210-213-5890

AUSTIN

Four County Auction

Where: Industry

Phone: 979-357-2545

Sale Day: Tuesday

Contact: Lisa Sebastian, 979-270-3041

BAILEY

Muleshoe Livestock Auction

Where: Muleshoe

Phone: 806-272-4201

Sale Day: Friday

Contact: Leo Aviles, 956-437-3899

BEE

Beeville Livestock Comm.

Where: Beeville

Phone: 361-358-1727

Sale Day: Friday

Contact: Robert Bridge, 361-542-6693

BOSQUE

Meridian L/S Comm. Co.

Where: Meridian Phone: 254-435-2988

Sale Day: Monday

Contact: Larry Brown, 254-265-1920

Clifton Livestock Comm. LLC

Where: Clifton Phone: 254-675-7717

Sale Day: Wednesday

Contact: Larry Brown, 254-265-1920

BOWIE

J & J Livestock Auction

Where: Texarkana

Phone: 903-832-3576

Sale Day: Saturday

Contact: Cheri Beal, 903-280-4554

BRAZOS

Brazos Valley Livestock Comm.

Where: Bryan

Phone: 979-778-0904

Sale Day: Tuesday

Contact: Nina Nygard, 512-281-6753

BURLESON

Caldwell Livestock Comm.

Where: Caldwell

Phone: 979-567-4119

Sale Day: Wednesday

Contact: Mark Nygard, 512-281-6330

CALDWELL

Lockhart Auction

Where: Lockhart

Phone: 512-398-3476

Sale Day: Thursday

Contact: Nina Nygard, 512-281-6753

CAMP

Bruce Overstreet Livestock

Where: Pittsburg

Phone: 903-856-3440

Sale Day: Monday

Contact: Michelle Willeford, 903-767-0670

CHEROKEE

Tri County Livestock Market

Where: New Summerfield

Phone: 903-322-4940

Sale Day: Saturday

Contact: Jerry Boulware, 936-465-1597

COLEMAN

Coleman Livestock Auction

Where: Coleman Phone: 325-625-4191

Sale Day: Wednesday

Contact: Dave Williams, 325-669-2030

COLORADO

Cattleman’s Columbus Livestock Auction

Where: Columbus Phone: 979-732-2622

Sale Day: Wednesday

Contact: Lisa Sebastian, 979-270-1228

COMANCHE

Comanche Livestock Exchange

Where: Comanche Phone: 325-356-5231

Sale Day: Saturday

Contact: Michael Davis, 254-879-3121

COOKE

The New Gainesville Livestock Auction

Where: Gainesville

Phone: 940-665-4367

Sale Day: Friday

Contact: Robin Gibbs, 903-227-0791

CORYELL

Coryell County Comm.

Where: Gatesville Phone: 254-865-9121

Sale Day: Wednesday

Contact: Ray Davis, 254-718-5512

DALLAM

Cattleman’s Livestock Comm.

Where: Dalhart

Phone: 806-249-5505

Sale Day: Thursday

Contact: Clifton Miller, 806-570-7439

DEAF SMITH

Hereford Livestock Auction

Where: Hereford

Phone: 806-240-3082

Sale Day: Tuesday

Contact: Joe Bob Via, 806-452-9280

DEWITT

Cuero Livestock Comm. Where: Cuero Phone: 361-275-2329

Sale Day: Friday

Contact: Kaylee Malatek, 979-942-0323

EASTLAND

Texas Cattle Exchange

Where: Eastland Phone: 254-629-2288

Sale Day: Tuesday

Contact: Ronnie Ober, 817-371-7071

ERATH

Dublin Livestock Auction Where: Dublin Phone: 254-445-1734

Sale Day: Friday

Contact: Ronnie Ober, 817-371-7071

Erath County Dairy Sale Where: Dublin Phone: 254-968-7253

Sale Day: Friday

Contact: Bob McBryde, 940-859-6217

Stephenville Cattle Co. Where: Stephenville Phone: 254-968-4844

Sale Day: Wednesday

Contact: Bob McBryde, 940-859-6217

FAYETTE

Flatonia Livestock Comm. Where: Flatonia Phone: 361-865-3538

Sale Day: Monday

Contact: Shannon Gallip, 512-995-1492

Schulenburg Livestock Auction

Where: Schulenburg Phone: 979-743-6566

Sale Day: Saturday

Contact: Vance Weltner, 210-473-9099

Auction Markets & Market Inspectors

FLOYD

Floydada Livestock Sales

Where: Floydada

Phone: 806-983-2153

Sale Day: Wednesday

Contact: JE Stone, 806-777-4396

FRIO

Pearsall Livestock Auction

Where: Pearsall

Phone: 830-334-3653

Sale Day: Wednesday

Contact: Clarence Stevens, 210-415-0441

GILLESPIE

Gillespie Livestock Co.

Where: Fredericksburg Phone: 830-997-4394

Sale Day: Wednesday

Contact: Larry Bowden, 210-846-0380

GONZALES

Gonzales Livestock Market

Where: Gonzales

Phone: 830-672-2845

Sale Day: Saturday

Contact: Landyn Maguglin, 361-492-9484

Nixon Livestock Comm.

Where: Nixon

Phone: 830-582-1561

Sale Day: Monday

Contact: Landyn Maguglin, 361-492-9484

GREGG

Longview Livestock

Where: Longview

Phone: 903-235-6385

Sale Day: Thursday

Contact: Paul Pruitt, 903-725-6200

GRIMES

Mid-Tex Livestock Auction

Where: Anderson

Phone: 936-825-3970

Sale Day: Thursday

Contact: Rick Faught, 936-442-1039

Navasota Livestock Auction

Where: Navasota

Phone: 936-825-6545

Sale Day: Saturday

Contact: Rick Faught, 936-442-1039

GUADALUPE

Seguin Cattle Co.

Where: Seguin

Phone: 830-379-9955

Sale Day: Wednesday

Contact: Elizabeth Cortez, 830-857-1945

HAMILTON

Hamilton Livestock Comm.

Where: Hamilton

Phone: 254-386-3185

Sale Day: Tuesday

Contact: Bob McBryde, 940-859-6217

HARDIN

Gore Family Auction Center

Where: Silsbee

Phone: 409-782-0612

Sale Day: Saturday

Contact: Christy McCoy, 409-782-0612

HENDERSON

Athens Comm. Co.

Where: Athens

Phone: 903-675-3333

Sale Day: Friday

Contact: Brandy Baughman, 903-440-4382

HIDALGO

Edinburg Livestock Auction

Where: Edinburg

Phone: 956-383-5671

Sale Day: Saturday

Contact: Coney Alvarez Jr., 956-437-3899

HILL

Hubbard Livestock Market

Where: Hubbard

Phone: 254-576-2584

Sale Day: Monday

Contact: Bob McBryde, 940-859-6217

HOPKINS

Sulphur Springs Livestock Comm.

Where: Sulphur Springs Phone: 903-885-2455

Sale Day: Monday

Contact: Paul Pruitt, 903-725-6200

HOUSTON

East Texas Livestock Auction

Where: Crockett

Phone: 936-544-2246

Sale Day: Tuesday

Contact: Cheyenne London, 936-222-3689

HOWARD

Big Spring Livestock Auction

Where: Big Spring

Phone: 432-267-5881

Sale Day: Wednesday

Contact: Bruce Brandenberger, 254-977-5763

JACKSON

Edna Livestock Auction

Where: Edna Phone: 361-782-7666

Sale Day: Monday

Contact: Galynn Mazoch, 979-578-1823

JASPER

Kirbyville Auction Barn

Where: Kirbyville

Phone: 409-423-2612

Sale Day: Saturday

Contact: Erica Morgan, 409-509-1946

JIM WELLS

Gulf Coast Livestock Market

Where: Alice

Phone: 361-664-4395

Sale Day: Tuesday

Contact: Ramiro Garcia, 361-460-0008

JOHNSON

Johnson County Cattle Auction

Where: Cleburne Phone: 817-556-9090

Sale Day: Saturday

Contact: Lee Snyder, 254-707-1682

KARNES

Karnes City Auction

Where: Karnes City Phone: 830-780-3382

Sale Day: Saturday

Contact: Elizabeth Cortez, 830-857-1945

Karnes County Livestock Exchange

Where: Kenedy Phone: 830-583-2574

Sale Day: Thursday

Contact: Elizabeth Cortez, 830-857-1945

LAMAR

Cattlemen’s Livestock Comm.

Where: Paris Phone: 903-784-2238

Sale Day: Saturday

Contact: Lana Caldwell, 903-908-0530

Paris Livestock Auction

Where: Paris Phone: 903-739-2575

Sale Day: Wednesday

Contact: Robin Gibbs, 903-227-0791

LAVACA

Hallettsville Livestock Comm.

Where: Hallettsville Phone: 361-798-4336

Sale Day: Tuesday

Contact: Kaylee Malatek, 979-942-0323

LEE

Giddings Livestock Comm.

Where: Giddings Phone: 979-542-2274

Sale Day: Monday

Contact: Nina Nygard, 512-281-6753

Auction Markets & Market Inspectors

LEE

Lexington Livestock Comm.

Where: Lexington

Phone: 979-773-2922

Sale Day: Saturday

Contact: Nina Nygard, 512-281-6753

LEON

Buffalo Livestock Comm.

Where: Buffalo

Phone: 903-322-4940

Sale Day: Saturday

Contact: Breanne Dunn, 208-993-3706

LIBERTY

Raywood Livestock Market

Where: Raywood

Phone: 936-587-4941

Sale Day: Monday

Contact: Harvey Williamson, 963-334-5325

LIMESTONE

Groesbeck Auction & Livestock

Where: Groesbeck

Phone: 254-729-3277

Sale Day: Thursday

Contact: Mallory Steen, 903-390-0594

LIVE OAK

Live Oak Livestock Auction

Where: Three Rivers

Phone: 361-786-2553

Sale Day: Monday

Contact: Marvin Bendele, 210-213-5890

MASON

Jordan Cattle Auction

Where: Mason

Phone: 325-347-6361

Sale Day: Monday

Contact: Warren Ottmers, 830-669-2262

MCLENNAN

West Auction

Where: West Phone: 254-826-3725

Sale Day: Thursday

Contact: Ray Davis, 254-718-5512

MEDINA

Union Comm.

Where: Hondo

Phone: 830-741-8061,

Sale Day: Monday

Contact: Clarence Stevens, 210-415-0441

MILAM

Milam County Livestock Auction

Where: Cameron

Phone: 254-697-6697

Sale Day: Friday

Contact: Rick Faught, 936-442-1039

NACOGDOCHES

Nacogdoches Livestock Exchange

Where: Nacogdoches

Phone: 936-564-8661

Sale Day: Thursday

Contact: Michael Witcher, 936-556-0992

NAVARRO

Corsicana Livestock Market

Where: Corsicana

Phone: 903-872-1631

Sale Day: Tuesday

Contact: Breanne Dunn, 208-993-3706

PANOLA

Carthage Livestock Auction LLC

Where: Carthage

Phone: 903-693-6361

Sale Day: Tuesday

Contact: Lori Blankenship, 936-234-3441

POLK

Livingston Livestock Exchange

Where: Livingston

Phone: 936-327-4917

Sale Day: Saturday

Contact: Harvey Williamson, 963-334-5325

POTTER

Lonestar Stockyards

Where: Amarillo

Phone: 806-677-0777

Sale Day: Tuesday

Contact: Gary McClellan, 806-334-0517

RAINS

Emory Livestock Auction

Where: Emory Phone: 903-473-2512

Sale Days: Tuesday & Saturday

Contact: Brandy Baughman, 903-440-4382

ROBERTSON

Calvert Livestock Co.

Where: Calvert

Phone: 979-364-2829

Sale Day: Friday

Contact: Ray Davis, 254-718-5512

RUSK

Hunt Livestock Exchange

Where: Henderson

Phone: 903-657-2690

Sale Day: Monday

Contact: Samuel Steadman, 318-617-1141

SAN SABA

Jordan Cattle Auction

Where: San Saba

Phone: 325-372-5159

Sale Day: Thursday

Contact: David Munden, 325-456-7253

SHELBY

Center Auction Co.

Where: Center

Phone: 936-598-4395

Sale Day: Wednesday

Contact: Michael Witcher, 936-556-0992

STARR

Triple G Livestock Auction LLC

Where: Rio Grande City Phone: 956-437-1988

Sale Day: Friday

Contact: Coney Alvarez Jr., 956-437-3899

SWISHER

Tulia Livestock Auction

Where: Tulia

Phone: 806-995-4184

Sale Day: Thursday

Contact: Tommy Thompson, 806-690-4080

TAYLOR

Abilene Auction

Where: Abilene

Phone: 325-673-7865

Sale Day: Tuesday

Contact: Dave Williams, 325-669-2030

TITUS

Stone Livestock Comm.

Where: Mt. Pleasant

Phone: 903-575-9099

Sale Day: Tuesday

Contact: Paul Pruitt, 903-725-6200

TOM GREEN

Producers Livestock Auction

Where: San Angelo Phone: 325-653-3371

Sale Day: Thursday

Contact: Bruce Halfmann, 325-315-5972

UVALDE

Southwest Livestock Exchange

Where: Uvalde Phone: 830-278-5621

Sale Day: Thursday

Contact: Clarence Stevens, 210-415-0441

VAN ZANDT

Mort Livestock Exchange

Where: Canton

Phone: 903-287-6386

Sale Day: Special Sales Only

Contact: Paul Pruitt, 903-725-6200

WASHINGTON

Brenham Livestock Auction

Where: Brenham

Phone: 979-836-3621

Sale Day: Friday

Contact: Lisa Sebastian, 979-270-3041

Auction Markets & Market Inspectors

WHARTON

El Campo Livestock Exchange LLC

Where: El Campo

Phone: 979-543-2703

Sale Day: Tuesday

Contact: Galynn Mazoch, 979-578-1823

Wharton Livestock Auction

Where: Wharton

Phone: 979-532-3660

Sale Day: Wednesday

Contact: Galynn Mazoch, 979-578-1823

WICHITA

Wichita Livestock Sales

Where: Wichita Falls

Phone: 940-541-2222

Sale Day: Wednesday

Contact: R.C. Langford, 832-330-7279

WILBARGER

Vernon Livestock Market LLC

Where: Vernon

Phone: 940-552-6000

Sale Day: Tuesday

Contact: Dennis Wilson, 940-613-7693

WISE

Decatur Livestock Market

Where: Decatur

Phone: 940-627-5599

Sale Day: Monday

Contact: Rebecca Benson, 940-389-6382

WOOD

Winnsboro Livestock Auction

Where: Winnsboro

Phone: 903-365-2201

Sale Day: Friday

Contact: Alan Pruitt, 903-725-6200

YOUNG

Graham Livestock Comm. LLC

Where: Graham

Phone: 940-549-0078

Sale Day: Monday

Contact: Kyla Rater, 940-284-9968

AKAUSHI

gary@gkbcattle.com www.GKB.ag NEW HEADQUARTERS AND PHYSICAL ADDRESS: 7440 TX 16, Desdemona, TX 76445 75 miles west of Fort Worth

<—>

Registered Black Angus

Robert L. Hogue M.D. • Judy Hogue 6 Spring Hollow, Brownwood, Texas 76801

Ranch: 10108 CR 237 • Phone: 325-643-2225

Cell: 325-647-9168 • Fax: 326-643-6235 Email: rlhmd@familymedical.us

TEXAS

Tr acy Woods

405.880.3866 Jarrod Payne 308.870.6348

FEMALES ALSO AVAILABLE PRIVATE TREATY

Power of Angus.

Contact Regional Manager Radale Tiner: 979-492-2663 rtiner@angus.org

© 2023-2024

Double Creek Farms

Angus Bulls for Sale – At all Times

Matthew Domel Cell: 254-749-3253

Mike & Barbara Domel – Meridian, TX Office: 254-435-2988 • Cell: 254-749-2240 www.mlslivestock.com

ANGUS BEEFMASTER

Mike & Carla Bacica 11707 FM 2868 Flint, TX 75762

Mike: 903-520-0390 mbpga@aol.com

Carla: 903-530-8551 wtnca@aol.com

Registered Gray Brahmans Dr. Scott & Nancy Satterfield 410 ACR 376 • Palestine, TX 75801 830-613-1492 www.satterfieldranch.com

BLACK HEREFORD BRAHMAN BRANGUS

Detering Red Brahmans

Beef Oriented Red Brahmans for the pasture and the show ring Liendo Plantation, 38653 Wyatt Chapel Rd. Hempstead, TX 77445 Will Detering, owner 281.989.8965 Web site: deteringredbrahmans.com

COATES RANCH COMPANY

C ATTLE C OMPANY

Registered Brangus & Charolais Bulls

713.204.4903 or 713.253.4804

Call about bulls • Cuero, Texas R AMRO LLC/

CHAROLAIS EQUIPMENT

Caleb Boscamp 830-857-5189

Julie Boscamp 830-857-5129 julieboscamp@yahoo.com

303 County Road 459 • Waelder, TX 78959 www.arrowheadcharolaisranch.com

Dennis Cha r olais Bull s

40 years of selective breeding/performance testing for… Easy Calving and… Explosive Growth Eric and Angie Dennis Saint Jo, TX 940/995-2161 940/841-2792 Cell

Ranch

DOUBLE DIAMOND

john@dudleybros.com

“Registered Herefords Since 1938” 923 Hillside Ave. Canadian, TX 79014 806-323-2906 lee@indianmoundranch.com www.indianmoundranch.com Lee & Jacqui Haygood

Nipp

SANTA GERTRUDIS

JULY SPECIAL - During the month of July 2024 the owner of this property has agreed to allow owner’s portion of the revenue from the mechanical harvest of crops in fall 2024 to be credited to the Buyer of this property. CHOICE 320 ac.+/-, irrigated farm, w/pivot sprinklers, irrigation wells & an older home which would be livable or could be moved. On pvmt. in the prime farming area of Castro Co., TX.

NEW LISTING! UNION CO., NM – divided into three tracts for rotational grazing of 1,822 ac. +/- enrolled in the new Grasslands Conservation Reserve Program & 120 ac. +/- of the property in the standard CRP program. GCRP can be grazed year-round each year. Excellent fencing, one mile of hwy. frontage together with all-weather roads on the remainder, equipped with almost new set of steel working pens with scale, a second set of almost new working pens, watered by subs on electricity with pipelines furnishing water for drinkers in each pasture. Gramma & buffalo grasses.

Black or Red Simbrah • SimAngus HT • SimAngus FILEGONIA

C ATTLE C OMPAN Y Joe & Beth Mercer 327 CR 459, Lott, TX 76656 • 956-802-6995 bethmercer1974@gmail.com • www.filegoniacattle.com

Stonewall Valley Ranch

www.stonewallvalleyranch.com 512-970-4676 (HORN) or 512-751-2386 (BEVO) Registerd Texas Longhorn bulls, cows, heifers, roping steers, trophy steers, semen, mounts skulls for sale. Overnight accommodations available on the ranch.

Bros. Farms Lockney, Texas

(806) 983-7225 mbl. / fosterbros@att.net David & DarLee Foster (806) 652-3824 (806) 983-7221 mbl.

www.fosterbrosfarms.com

& Shawnda Foster (806) 652-2383 (806) 983-7225 mbl.

M a l l e t t SIMMENTALS

Simmental & SimAngus BULL SALE

21st Annual Bull Sale

March 8, 2012

March 6, 2025

San Saba, Texas

Private Treaty Sales

Mike Mallett 10602 North Hwy 281 • Lampasas, TX 76550

Home: 512-556-8548 • Cell: 512-556-1021 www.mallettsimmentals.com

Our cattle are perfomance tested. Mike and Connie Mallett • 512-556-1021 Lampasas, Texas • mmcmallett@outlook.com

614-778-2422 ǘN NuWAGYU.COM

Prime © Every Time!

Wagyu Cattle - Seed Stock & Bulls - Semen - Pregnancies - Embryos Profitable • LBW • Docile • Delicious Krum, Texas

Upcoming Events

MARK YOUR CALENDAR

AUGUST

THURSDAY, AUG. 1

TSCRA Ranch Gathering Where: Crockett When: 5:30 p.m.

MONDAY, AUG. 5 –

WEDNESDAY, AUG. 7

Texas A&M AgriLife Beef Cattle Short Course Where: College Station

TUESDAY, AUG. 13 –

WEDNESDAY, AUG. 14

Great Plains Fire Summit Where: West Texas A&M University, Canyon

THURSDAY, AUG. 15

TSCRA Ranch Gathering Where: Beaumont When: 5:30 p.m.

TUESDAY, AUG. 20

Ranching 101: Beef Exports Equal Producer Profit Where: Online When: 1 p.m.

SATURDAY, AUG. 24

Special Replacement Female Sale

Where: Jordan Cattle Auction, San Saba When: 10 a.m.

TUESDAY, AUG. 27

Navarro County BQA Where: Navarro County Expo Center, Corsicana When: 10:30 a.m.

SATURDAY, AUG. 31

South Texas Cattle Marketing’s Fall Replacement Female Sale Where: Nixon Livestock Commission, Nixon When: 12 p.m.

SEPTEMBER

WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 4

TSCRA Ranch Gathering Where: Stephenville When: 5:30 p.m.

THURSDAY, SEPT. 5

TSCRA Ranch Gathering Where: Sulphur Springs When: 5:30 p.m.

THURSDAY, SEPT. 12

Wichita Falls Luncheon Where: McBride’s Steakhouse, Wichita Falls When: 11:30 a.m.

TSCRA Ranch Gathering Where: Waco When: 5:30 p.m.

THURSDAY, SEPT. 12 –

SUNDAY, SEPT. 22

Oklahoma State Fair Where: Oklahoma City

TUESDAY, SEPT. 17

Ranching 101: Shooting Season, Know Your Limits Where: Online When: 1 p.m.

HeartBrand Cattle: Fall Kick Off Sale Event Where: Online When: 3 p.m.

TSCRA Ranch Gathering Where: Decatur When: 5:30 p.m.

SATURDAY, SEPT. 21

TSCRA Young Cattle Raisers Clay Shoot & Dinner Where: Joshua Creek Ranch, Boerne When: 3 p.m.

TSCRA West Texas A&M University Football Tailgate Where: Canyon

MONDAY, SEPT. 23

Gardiner Angus Ranch: 20 th Annual Fall Production Sale Where: Ashland, Kansas

TUESDAY, SEPT. 24

Texas Coastal CattleWomen: Annual Fundraiser Luncheon & Style Show Where: Lakeside Country Club, Houston

FRIDAY, SEPT. 27 –SUNDAY, OCT. 20

State Fair of Texas Where: Dallas

SATURDAY, SEPT. 28

Special Replacement Female Sale Where: Jordan Cattle Auction, San Saba When: 10 a.m.

OCTOBER

THURSDAY, OCT. 3

Dudley Bros.: 63rd Annual Bull Sale Where: Comanche When: 12 p.m.

FRIDAY, OCT. 4

Jorgensen Land & Cattle: Pasture-Ready SmartBull Sale Where: Ideal, South Dakota When: 5:30 p.m.

TUESDAY, OCT. 8

Powell Ranch Herefords: 27th Annual Production Sale Where: Fort McKavett When: 12:30 p.m.

THURSDAY, OCT. 10

GKB Cattle: Inaugural Fall Bull Sale Where: Desdemona When: 12 p.m.

Texas Agricultural Land Trust Working Lands Innovation Summit Where: Henrietta When: 1 p.m.

TSCRA Ranch Gathering Where: Fredericksburg When: 5:30 p.m.

SUNDAY, OCT. 13 –TUESDAY, OCT. 15

Texas Cattle Feeders Assoc. Annual Convention Where: San Antonio

TUESDAY, OCT. 15

Ranching 101: Building a Bull-Buying Budget Where: Online When: 1 p.m.

SATURDAY, OCT. 26

44 Farms: Fall Bull Sale Where: Cameron When: 10 a.m.

Case Ranch: Consigning Cattle to South Texas Hereford Assoc. Sale Where: Beeville When: 12 p.m.

TSCRA Texas A&M Football Tailgate Where: College Station

TSCRA Texas Christian University Football Tailgate Where: Fort Worth

YOUNG CATTLE RAISERS CLAY SHOOT & DINNER

Saturday 3:00 P.M.

Joshua Creek Ranch Boerne, TX

The 2024 Young Cattle Raisers Clay Shoot & Dinner brings together the next generation of ranchers, landowners, wildlife managers and others who are interested in the future of the great Southwest. Young professionals aged 25-40 can connect with like-minded individuals to network, learn and enjoy the clay shooting, an open bar and dinner social.

AUGUST 1924

In the early 1920s, an author named A.L. Spellmeyer predicted better days in an article titled At the Last, the Dawn of the Cattle Comeback .

He wrote of a lack of prosperity in cities, while an increasing level of prosperity emerged in the country.

“All in this world is largely a matter of credit. The farmer and livestock man’s credit was weak, but with higher wheat, corn, hogs and before long, high cattle, that credit is returning.”

He described the ever-present challenges, ones that plague the industry even a century later — scattered and spotty drought, constantly increasing expenses, and markets far below production costs.

“We in this cow business can live a long time and never forget what we have been through, and the greatest injury has been to our spirit.” T C

after Planting fter Planting

after Planting

“Several years ago I made the switch to Nelson Tetraploid Ryegrass from Gulf ryegrass. NO WAY I’m going back to Gulf... Nelson increases forage production and extends grazing days. With Nelson, the ranch is producing more Beef, and that means more dollars to our bottom line ... with only a little extra seed cost. The extra production from this switch to Nelson really helps to reduce our costs. (fertilizer and fuel costs)

I’m staying with Nelson Ryegrass! NO WAY I’m going back... My cattle like it... and so do I!”

Carlos Bonnot - DVM

Bonnot Ranch • La Ward, Texas