The Cattleman - June 2024

Industry Insights

Topics of discussion during the Cattle Raisers Convention & Expo.

Harlow Cattle Co.

Birdwell Plainview, TX (806) 681-3667

10 FEATURES 18

Deep Roots

Fourth-generation land steward leads TSCRA as president.

By Jena McRell

Industry Insights

Cattle Raisers Convention & Expo engages attendees on the latest issues.

By Shelby Kirton

DEPARTMENTS

A LOOK AT WHAT’S AHEAD

When you read this column, it will have been nearly three months since Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association gathered in Fort Worth for the 2024 Cattle Raisers Convention & Expo. We’ll also have assembled policy committees for meetings to begin making progress on important issues and programs that impact our membership.

Leading the charge on all these efforts is Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association’s new president, Carl Ray Polk Jr.

In our lead story this month, Jena McRell introduces us to him. Hailing from East Texas, Polk brings a fervent dedication to land stewardship and policy. As former executive director for Texas Parks and Wildlife Carter Smith describes, “Carl Ray has always been somebody with a servant’s heart who looks to give back to people, places and entities he cares about.”

Staff Writer Shelby Kirton also breaks down topof-mind issues following the 2024 Cattle Raisers Convention & Expo. From farm bill and policy predictions to what Mother Nature has in store, gain insight into conversations likely circling local cafes and feed stores across the Southwest — heard first in Fort Worth this March.

Catch more from our annual meeting in Passion & Purpose, which gives a glimpse into lessons learned by three female ranchers; Market Boons, a forecast from

CattleFax; and Convention Chatter, where you’ll find all the headlines from this year’s event.

For those who found value in the recaps shared from the 2024 Cattle Raisers Convention & Expo, consider this your gentle nudge to mark your calendars for next year’s event April 11-13, 2025.

Convention stands as one of the premier gatherings for cattle raisers across the Southwest, but why wait until next year to immerse yourself in the community?

Join us in San Antonio for the TSCRA Summer Meeting June 21-22. This mid-year meeting will provide a platform to pass crucial policies that will shape our advocacy efforts during the upcoming 89th Texas Legislative Session starting in January. T C

Hope to see you there!

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

Published by Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association

P.O. Box 101988

Fort Worth, Texas 76185

Phone: 817-332-7064

Fax: 817-394-1864

Subscription Inquiries: (orders, address change, problems) tscra@tscra.org or 800-242-7820 tscra.org

EDITORIAL

Jaclyn Roberts Parrish Executive Director, Communications & Marketing/Editor-in-Chief jaclyn@tscra.org • 817-916-1794

Shelby Kirton Manager of Communications & Marketing

Jena McRell Managing Editor

Kayla Jennings Proofreader

ADVERTISING

Jana Earp Advertising & Partnership Manager jearp@tscra.org • 817-916-1744

PRODUCTION

Heather Heater Graphic Design & Print Production Manager

Production support by: GRANT COMPANY grantcompany.net

IMPORTANT LINKS

The Cattleman/ TSCRA tscra.org

Cattle Raisers Insurance cattleraisersinsurance.com

Law Enforcement tscra.org, click on Theft & Law

Cattle Raisers Convention cattleraisersconvention.com

ON THE COVER

East Texas native Carl Ray Polk Jr. says it’s beyond humbling to begin his role as TSCRA president. Get to know him and his family starting on page 10.

by Katie Barnett

CONTENTS

A dirt road leads through Polk Land & Cattle near Lufkin.

by Katie Barnett

ALSO WITH THIS ISSUE

TSCRA Disaster Relief Fund, starting on page 52, recognizes supporters in response to wildfires in the Texas Panhandle and Western Oklahoma.

Photo

Photo

Deep Roots

Fourth-generation land steward leads TSCRA as president.

Story by Jena McRell

by Katie Barnett

The sights, sounds and wonders of East Texas feel as natural to Carl Ray Polk Jr. as breathing.

From the loamy soil deep beneath his feet to a canopy of pines towering overhead, and the steady calm of the Neches River as it snakes through forestlands and pastures — this special place is home. It has been for five generations of the Polk family.

Carl Ray’s great-grandfather, Rube Sessions, moved to the region in 1897, looking to capitalize on a booming timber industry.

He purchased land, started a sawmill and endured the back-breaking labor of harvesting trees and producing lumber. Early on, Carl Ray says his great-grandfather was highly attuned to protecting natural resources and the landscape surrounding them.

The same mindset was passed down to his sonin-law, H.C. Polk, and grandson, Carl Ray Polk Sr., known to most as Ray.

“The timber industry is what got my family into the ranching and cattle business,” Carl Ray Jr. says. “The love for conservation efforts is still very much in our veins.”

Today, Polk Land & Cattle near Lufkin is home to commercial herds of Brahman and Angus, and a cow-calf operation of F1 Braford and Brangus.

Carl Ray says he is honored to continue his father’s passion for raising high-quality cattle, which graze before a backdrop of pines and hardwood trees. They have specialized in raising F1 females, producing animals genetically equipped to thrive in the region’s many climates.

He says his best days are those that begin with checking cattle, driving through dew-covered grass and watching the sun peak through the pine trees.

The intersection of ranching, wildlife, land management and natural resources is where Carl Ray says he has always felt called. This mission has encouraged him to become actively involved in Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association.

Ray and his family have been members for years, and Carl Ray started becoming more engaged in the early 2010s. He saw the association speaking out in Austin on issues that mattered to him, and he knew he needed to be more involved.

In 2016, he was elected to the Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association board of directors, and he has served as an officer for the past four years.

During the association’s annual meeting held March 23, Carl Ray was elected president of the nearly 150-year-old organization.

Photos

Romy and Carl Ray Polk Jr. take in the sights on the family's ranch near Lufkin.

“It is beyond humbling,” Carl Ray says of his new role. “When you look back through the history of this organization and specifically its leaders, it is an incredible honor to serve in this way.”

Throughout his life, Carl Ray has presented in corporate boardrooms, advocated before Congress and the Texas Legislature, and volunteered on countless committees in the agriculture industry and community he loves.

He says serving Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association is the ultimate privilege.

“Carl Ray has always been somebody with a servant’s heart who looks to give back to people, places and entities he cares about,” says Carter Smith, former executive director for Texas Parks and Wildlife.

“It’s a wonderful progression to see his dedication for all things around land, livestock, wildlife and natural resources translated into an opportunity to lead this extraordinary organization that has such a big imprint and influence on our state’s land, heritage and legacy.”

Family ties

Following the same entrepreneurial spirit as the generation before, Carl Ray’s grandfather H.C. Polk and grandmother Hazel established their own chapter of the family business in 1937 when they founded Polk Oil Co.

From humble beginnings, they grew to become the region’s leading wholesale and commercial fuel supplier and managed a long line of convenience stores called “Polk’s Pick It Up.”

The couple’s son, Ray, continued the business into the second generation. Then Carl Ray followed in his footsteps.

Lufkin native and close family friend Trey Henderson says the Polk name has always been synonymous with quality.

“Polk Oil was well thought of, always has been and always will be,” he says. “It is just a legacy they leave behind.”

Henderson, whose family ran a local hardwood business, grew up alongside Carl Ray, and the two spent many hours together showing cattle, hunting and exploring the outdoors — much like their fathers and grandfathers.

During his youth, Carl Ray says the routine of morning ranch work, tending to fences, checking cattle or clearing brush, combined with afternoons at Polk Oil Company, are where his best life lessons were learned.

“Some of the toughest days, emotionally and physically, have been in our family’s operation,” he says. “But some of the very best, too.”

One memory he will never forget happened the first summer he was home from college. Readjusting to early mornings proved difficult for the 19-year-old Carl Ray. Groggy eyed and rushing about, he showed up late to the ranch — two days in a row.

His grandfather H.C. did not take kindly to tardiness, so he promptly fired Carl Ray and told him to leave.

“That got my attention,” Carl Ray remembers. “My grandfather told me that day, ‘Any person who sleeps past 6 a.m. will steal from you.’ Still to this day, I don’t use an alarm clock, and I am always up before 6 a.m.”

Carl Ray Polk Jr. and his dad, Ray, pictured left to right, go about their work at Polk Land & Cattle near Lufkin.

After high school, Carl Ray attended Kilgore College and the University of Texas. When in Austin, he worked the ’87 and ’89 sessions in the state Capitol, developing an interest in advocacy and the legislative process.

While enjoying the new experiences and friendships, Carl Ray says his heart still tugged toward home. He returned in September 1989.

“I got back just about as fast as I left,” Carl Ray says. “Other than working in the legislature while in college, I’ve never had any job other than Polk Oil and the family ranch.”

Committed to cattle

After the family’s successful timber business and an expanding Polk Oil Co., Carl Ray’s grandfather H.C. decided to try his hand at raising cattle.

He was introduced to the Dudley family near Comanche, longtime Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association members, and purchased a set of registered Hereford cows in the early ’60s.

A decade later, Ray added registered Brahmans to the mix, purchasing animals from fellow association members at J.D. Hudgins Inc. and V-8 Ranches near Hungerford.

“My grandfather was in the Hereford business, and my dad was in the Brahman business,” Carl Ray says. “Then they started retaining a lot of heifers and started an F1 program. And of course, I was right in the middle of it.”

From the time they were old enough, Carl Ray and his sister, Paige Polk Carrigan, showed registered heifers and steers, and traveled to all the major shows throughout the state and region. When Carl Ray’s own children wanted to do the same, he was thrilled to carry on the tradition.

Carl Ray says they remain focused on being as efficient as possible and managing the natural resources available to them. They employ rotational grazing, and are proactive in controlling brush and invasive weeds.

“As my dad would remind me, ‘we are not in the cattle business, we are in the grass business,’” Carl Ray says. “The cattle come as a byproduct of good grass country. We have to steward that.”

Close proximity to the Neches River is not something they take for granted, Carl Ray says. Easy access to water and runoff allows them to grow high-quality forages, grasses and hay. In the warmer months, the tractor, rake and baler are constantly moving throughout the pastures, often with Ray in the cab.

While a commitment to the land has been unwavering, Carl Ray says the increased availability of information has been the biggest change he has seen during his lifetime.

With instant access to data, metrics and other people’s experiences, opportunities are endless. As examples, he points to educational programs through Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association, USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service or Farm Service Agency.

cattle come as a byproduct of good grass country. We have to steward that.”

— Carl Ray Polk Jr., TSCRA president

Ray Polk

and

have

and Mary Grace. “I’m super proud of the fact that they come home every chance they get, whether it’s work to be done or to enjoy a hunting weekend at the ranch,” he says. “It’s pretty fun to have four generations that can say they worked one piece of property.”

“There’s no reason to operate today like you operated 10, 25 or 30 years ago,” Carl Ray says. “The ones who are successful in this industry, they study. They engage with others to understand better management practices and take advantage of opportunities they have learned or put into place.”

Henderson speaks to the progress the Polks have made throughout the years. “It is remarkable what they have done,” he says. “Not only on the cattle business, but the land stewardship side. The cultivation of the environment.

“They have done an outstanding job turning what was a family-owned farm into an impressive cattle, wildlife and environmental operation.”

Leadership & service

About two decades ago, when Smith was leading Texas Parks and Wildlife, he met Carl Ray for the first time. They were at a meeting about a contentious wildlife issue in East Texas, and Smith describes Carl Ray as a very interested, engaged landowner, rancher, hunter and wildlife enthusiast.

But they were on opposite sides of the issue.

Despite many hours of intense discussion and debate, the two became immediate friends. That’s just how Carl Ray operates, Smith says.

“We quickly discovered that we had a whole lot of life in common, including a love of land, wildlife and natural resources, hunting and the outdoors, and a friendship really blossomed from that,” he says.

Whether a statewide concern or local community issue, Henderson says Carl Ray is never afraid to speak up — and to bring others alongside him.

“He will not shy away from anything,” Henderson says. “He will take on the tasks he needs to, and allow committees and others to be involved. He’s very understanding and willing to do his part.”

Smith says he counts Carl Ray among the greatest relationship builders he has ever met, and that he has a distinct ability to bring out the best in those around him.

“Carl Ray loves our state from corner to corner, and everybody in it,” Smith says. “He’s never met a stranger. He’s a great listener, imminently relatable and a dear friend to so many, and he’s a consensus builder.”

All traits that likely came from hours spent working cattle with his dad, observing his grandparents in the family business and studying the history of his great-grandfather.

A legacy of service, dedication and business savvy connects each generation. And most of all, a love for their East Texas community.

“Not only does Carl Ray talk the talk, he walks the walk,” Henderson says. “The businesses and the ranch are thriving because of the effort they’ve given it — and the community benefits from that, too.”

Carl

Jr.

his wife, Romy,

three grown children: Andrew, Preston

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.

These days, in addition to his service to Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association, Carl Ray is a managing partner of Corner Capital Advisors, and serves on the board of directors for CHI-St. Luke’s Memorial Medical Center; The George H. Henderson Jr. Exposition Center, which is named for Henderson’s dad; Texas Food and Fuel Association; and formerly the Angelina County Fair; and the Texas Wildlife Association.

He has been active in numerous national, state and local organizations over the years, too.

“We want to see Lufkin continue to grow,” Henderson says. “When our local communities do better, East Texas benefits and the entire state becomes a better place to live and work, too.”

His friends agree, Carl Ray is the same whether he is meeting with legislators in Austin or Washington, D.C., or enjoying lunch with neighbors at the local cafe. He is authentic, real and eager to see rural America and the agricultural industry thrive.

“I’ve seen Carl Ray shine in so many places, not the least of which is as a spokesperson for cattle raisers on difficult issues,” Smith says. “Be it eminent domain, animal disease or wildlife-disease related matters, he’s thoughtful and always well prepared.

“He’s incredibly well-spoken, and one of the best ambassadors any industry, particularly the cattle industry, could ever hope to have.”

Looking ahead

As he begins his two-year term as president, Carl Ray says he does not take the position lightly. The cattle business has endured its share of recent struggles, including historic wildfires, record-breaking drought and unpredictable market swings.

“We’re facing strong headwinds, but I feel like if you have 28,000 like-minded individuals who love the industry and love this association, you can move the needle,” Carl Ray says.

He believes the association’s presence in Austin is among the best values to the membership, as well as the strong local ties of the special ranger team. In both ways, cattle raisers can feel secure that their voices are heard when it matters most — on issues related to legislative policy and law enforcement.

With the November elections ahead, Carl Ray says among his top priorities is to mitigate state and federal pressures on cattle raisers and landowners. He says he will also remain focused on ensuring the organization’s strong financial future and preserving its history for generations to come.

Most importantly, he wants members to know he looks forward to hearing from them, addressing challenges and creating new avenues to protect this way of life.

“I’ve always believed in continuing to learn,” Carl Ray says. “I think that applies across this association and membership. I am excited about the opportunities that will make themselves available to our members.”

Carl Ray says it’s rewarding to know you are involved in an industry benefitting the economy, consumers around the world and natural landscapes.

“Carl Ray is the quintessential steward,” Smith says. “He’s very passionate about the cattle industry and particularly the ranchers who are at the heart of it.”

Like he has for many years, Carl Ray will continue to log miles in service of the region’s cattle raisers, landowners and wildlife enthusiasts. Whether traveling to far West Texas, the Gulf Coast or the Panhandle, he greets old and new friends along the way.

Yet it’s no surprise his favorite destination is in Houston County — Polk Land & Cattle.

“My happy place is at the ranch,” Carl Ray says. “It is a darn good place to be.” T C

Carl Ray Jr. and Romy Polk, center, pictured with their children: from left, Preston and Mary Grace; Andrew and his wife, Stephanie.

All eyes on the main stage during Cattle Raisers Convention & Expo. Photo by Kayla Jennings.

Industry Insights

Cattle Raisers Convention & Expo engages attendees on the latest issues.

By Shelby Kirton

Whether taking in a session during the School for Successful Ranching, listening to a main-stage address or catching up with peers in the trade show, information abounds at Cattle Raisers Convention & Expo.

For nearly 150 years, Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association has united industry stakeholders, and the organization’s annual convention has become a longstanding tradition for individuals and families across the Southwest. The event marks the year’s milestones and sets the stage for what’s to come.

The halls of the Fort Worth Convention Center were buzzing March 22-24 as the 2024 convention welcomed more than 4,300 attendees, the largest crowd in the last five years.

As cattle raisers near and far joined together, a sense of optimism was present despite the many challenges facing the industry. This included the devastating wildfires in the Texas Panhandle and Western Oklahoma that ranchers battled to protect their livestock and livelihoods.

When the curtain closed on the 2024 convention, three issues emerged as among the most important:

1. Mother Nature and the current transition from El Niño to La Niña weather patterns were discussed at length.

2. Just like the weather, politics impact nearly every aspect of life, so speakers unpacked implications for the agricultural industry this election year.

3. One such issue is animal disease traceability, and attendees heard the latest on electronic ID efforts and a producer-led effort toward that goal.

All this and more was brought to the forefront during the 2024 Cattle Raisers Convention & Expo, which encouraged attendees to stay informed, engaged and plan ahead for the future of their operations.

Wild weather patterns

Brian Bledsoe, a seasoned meteorologist with more than two decades of experience and a keen eye for climate trends, officially kicked off the convention March 22 on the main stage with his weather outlook.

Bledsoe offered long-range weather predictions to inform the crowd of potential risks ahead.

“We are not always at the mercy of [the weather] if we know what’s coming at us,” said Bledsoe, who grew up on a cattle ranch in Colorado.

He cited historical data that revealed challenging weather trends, particularly during certain years marked by La Niña activity.

El Niño and La Niña, the twin siblings of oceanic variability, hold sway over weather patterns around the globe.

“The transition to La Niña certainly appears to be a done deal,” said Bledsoe, noting the shift toward cooler ocean temperatures and altered weather patterns brings heightened variability and potential drought conditions.

Bledsoe predicted drier conditions through at least the first half of 2025, with lingering effects posing challenges for agriculture.

“Drought begets drought, and it’s a tough pattern to break,” he said. “It is the degree of dryness and how long that lasts that is really the meat of the information that is important.”

The historical patterns of drought in Texas and the Southwest have left an indelible mark on the region’s cattle industry.

Texas drought episodes have recurred with alarming regularity. From the 1930s-era Dust Bowl to the prolonged dry spells of the late 20th and early 21st centuries, Texas cattle raisers and landowners have dealt with the relentless challenge of water scarcity and forage depletion.

Drought across the Southwest continues to stand as a significant issue due to its direct effects on forage and water availability.

The meteorologist stressed the importance of proactive planning based on historical trends and future forecasts, allowing ranchers and landowners to prepare for potential challenges because of drought or recordhigh temperatures.

“We’ve never been better when it comes to forecasting the weather,” Bledsoe said. “The technology that we have right now is astounding, and the ability to take that information and apply it — it’s never been done before like this.”

Weather forecasts become more than a prediction, he said, but a roadmap for navigating the uncertain terrain of an agricultural enterprise.

From the classroom to main stage, Cattle Raisers Convention & Expo was packed with educational sessions for ranchers and landowners of all types and experiences. Meteorologist Brian Bledsoe, pictured in top photo, kicked off the event with a weather outlook on what to expect during the transition from El Niño to La Niña.

Driving Demand

As the world's largest beef producer, the U.S. beef industry significantly influences global trade policies, particularly concerning beef trade agreements and market access regulations. Balancing domestic demand with international trade requires strategic policymaking to ensure food security and protect the interests of the U.S. beef industry.

“Going forward, these are wild times that we are in, whether it’s markets or it’s weather,” he said. “Folks in the ag industry need every advantage they can get to run their operation.”

The view from Washington

Truth be told, predicting the weather may be easier than predicting politics.

This became clear during legislative updates provided by two leaders with extensive experience in the nation’s Capitol.

U.S. Rep. August Pfluger and Former Chairman of the House Committee on Agriculture Mike Conaway brought insight into the political challenges facing agriculture and rural America during a panel discussion led by Tony St. James, farm broadcaster and host of All Ag, All Day

Pfluger, who represents District 11 in Texas, emphasized the importance of bolstering global trade as top priority to benefit U.S. beef producers.

“We are thankful about some of the markets in Asia, like Japan and Korea, especially knowing that the appetite for American beef is extremely high,” Pfluger said. “We want to see that increase, and I think there’s room for that.”

He added that the world wants American beef and hopes to see pro-American beef trade as a legislative priority in 2025.

With all eyes on the pending farm bill, Pfluger recognized Conaway’s leadership in passing this critical legislation six years ago.

“Let me just say how important it was in 2018 under Mike Conway’s leadership to get a farm bill passed,” Pfluger said. “It set us in motion for a very good product that we can extend, and I thank you for that leadership, because that was incredibly important.”

The farm bill, a fundamental aspect of U.S. agricultural policy, was extended through Sept. 30, 2024. The House and Senate Ag Committees both released frameworks for a new farm bill on May 1. However, deliberations will likely continue given divisions in the two chamber’s policies.

“G.T. Thompson, the new House Ag Chairman, is as driven as I was to get the farm bill done,” Conaway said. “He’s paddling upstream against a lot of things going on.”

Trade agreements and market access are crucial, influencing industry dynamics and self-reliance in food production. Markets like Japan are vital outlets for American beef, contributing to industry growth.

Reflecting on the pivotal role of American beef in international markets, Jon Means, Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association past president and a guest during Tom and Lisa Perini’s main-stage discussion March 23 at Cattle Raisers Convention & Expo, recounted a moment he experienced with Tom in Japan 1991.

"We were there the first time that they introduced American beef,” Means said. “Those butchers were working tirelessly, and they could not keep the counter space full. It was awesome to see."

Such moments exemplify the transformative power of trade in driving demand for American beef abroad, a trend further bolstered by the landmark 1998 trade agreement between Japan and the U.S., which opened new avenues for American beef exports and solidified the partnership between the two nations in agricultural trade.

U.S. Rep. August Pfluger and Former Chairman of the House Committee on Agriculture Mike Conaway, pictured middle and right, respectively, shared the stage with moderator Tony St. James.

Special guests take a seat at the table with Tom and Lisa Perini during Cattle Raisers Convention & Expo.

National Cattlemen’s Beef Association Senior Director of Government Affairs Tanner Beymer also spoke to the less-than-encouraging state of the next farm bill.

“At the beginning of the Congress, we said this is mustpass legislation,” Beymer said.

Beymer, who presented during the School for Successful Ranching, told attendees that Congress’ ability to pass legislation this year does not make him feel optimistic about the months ahead and challenges could continue into 2025.

Most attention is turned to the November elections, which hold the potential to significantly influence the passage of the farm bill and other critical agricultural legislation in the year ahead.

Monitoring key races, shifts in political dynamics and candidate positions will be crucial in determining the future direction of agricultural policy.

Despite a challenging political landscape and an uncertain course ahead, Pflueger said he remains positive, believing there is reason to stay encouraged about where the beef industry, and entire country, is headed.

“I’ve never believed in this country more than I do right now,” Pflueger said. “Those who are working for the betterment of our country are more passionate than they’ve ever been.”

Animal disease traceability

Congressional action in Washington, D.C., also shed light on an industry-wide discussion surrounding animal disease traceability.

While cattle raisers were gathered in Fort Worth for convention, the U.S. House of Representatives passed an appropriations package that included $15 million in funding for electronic ID tags.

Tanner Beymer, National Cattlemen’s Beef Association senior director of government affairs, presents during the School for Successful Ranching, discussing policies impacting the cattle industry and interactions with animal rights activists in D.C.

U.S. Rep. August Pflueger presents an American flag to TSCRA Immediate Past President Arthur Uhl.

The legislation stems from USDA’s final rule requiring visually and electronically readable tags on breeding age cattle 18 months and older traveling across state lines.

At time of press, this rule was anticipated to go into effect six months after being published in the Federal Register

The appropriations funding would set a USDA budget specifically to help producers cover the cost of the tags and infrastructure. Funding distribution is yet to be determined.

“The $15 million, as they look to allocate to help us through this transition, should be very helpful,” said Callahan Grund, executive director of U.S. CattleTrace.

In the School for Successful Ranching, Grund shared a look at producer-led efforts to develop a workable animal disease traceability system. He spoke about a need for urgency, and for cattle producers to help design a voluntary program that could be implemented across the industry.

“We have an opportunity to be proactive instead of reactive,” Grund said.

He pointed to the cow that stole Christmas more than two decades ago, when the first animal in the U.S. was identified with bovine spongiform encephalopathy. The industry was upended, as the single cow came in contact with nearly 7,000 head at a sale barn and potentially reached 40-plus feedyards.

Because disease spreads quickly, the ability to use contract tracing to identify exposed animals can make a significant difference. Developing a producerled, voluntary animal disease traceability system is the key to safeguarding the industry against these risks, Grund said.

In his main-stage discussion, Conaway also stressed the role of animal disease traceability when it comes to protecting trade partnerships.

“If you look at the risks our markets run for an outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease or others, being able to trace back to the source would help us limit the damage that would be incurred,” Conaway said.

While foot-and-mouth disease has not impacted the U.S. cattle industry since 1929, this disease is still a threat to U.S. cattle raisers. In the event of a foot-and-mouth disease outbreak, it’s crucial to enhance traceability measures to contain and mitigate the spread.

“On the animal health official side, they want to know where those animals are so they can get their arms wrapped around it,” Grund said. “We need to go to this operation so we can keep it isolated.”

Cattle Raisers Convention & Expo attendees listen to educational sessions through the School for Successful Ranching. The 2024 event brought 4,300 cattle raisers together, surpassing attendance in recent years.

While at Cattle Raisers Convention & Expo, attendees enjoyed numerous live demonstrations, visiting with exhibitors and shopping throughout the more than 200,000 square-foot trade show.

The work of U.S. CattleTrace follows more than 25 years of discussion around animal disease traceability.

While regulations could vary from state to state, the overarching goal of U.S. CattleTrace is to establish a standardized framework to ensure consistency and accuracy across the industry.

Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association has been, and continues to be, committed to making sure any animal disease traceability program upholds privacy rights and has funding to keep the financial burden off cattle raisers.

A shared passion

Following the important work of Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association meetings,

educational sessions and networking, convention attendees gained new insights into what could impact their operations in the year ahead.

Many continued these conversations during the association’s policy committee meetings held in May and will help formulate policy priorities during the TSCRA Summer Meeting June 21-22 in San Antonio.

Through the collective efforts of Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association members, volunteers and leaders, the organization will continue to navigate challenges and seize opportunities to benefit those who steward the land and livestock.

Save the date for the 2025 Cattle Raisers Convention & Expo, April 11-13, 2025, for the next annual gathering of cattle raisers in Fort Worth. T C

Jordan Cattle Auction…

Where Cattlemen Come to Buy and Sell!

WEEKLY SALES HELD AT 11:00 a.m.

Monday – Mason

Thursday – San Saba

Formoreinfoonabove salesoronlineviewing andbidding,pleasecall orvisitourwebsite.

NORTH LOUP RIVER RANCH

PROTECTING U.S. BEEF: PRIORITIZING SAFETY ACROSS IMPORTS

By Missy Bonds

Trade has long been a vital tool in a cattle raiser’s toolbelt. Opportunities to market high-quality American beef to other countries drive value for the product we raise.

However, trade is a two-way street. To market our premium beef outside the U.S., we also must accept products from other countries.

Imported beef is typically very lean, often grass-fed and mostly suited for grinds mixed with top-quality domestic trimmings. Because we cannot produce enough lean beef to meet grind demands, adding imported beef helps fill the gap — and allows higher value U.S. beef cuts to stay in the premium market, here and abroad.

Simply put, more dollars stay in American cattle raisers’ pockets while affordable, safe ground beef can be made into hamburgers for summer grills.

This market system hinges on a vital element: safety.

International trade of live cattle and fresh beef is important and extremely valuable to the U.S. beef industry, but it must be done without subjecting our country to detrimental disease outbreaks and unnecessary risks. That is why we hold our trading partners to strict health and safety standards. Paraguay beef does not meet those standards.

Most notably, Paraguay has a history of foot-andmouth disease, which presents one of the beef industry’s greatest risks. Importing any fresh beef with the disease could cause widespread harm to the U.S. cattle herd — and create detrimental effects to trade agreements with other countries.

Foot-and-mouth disease is among the most challenging animal diseases to control, because it is fast-spreading and affects a broad group of clovenhoofed animals. The virus can reside in raw meat, animal products or milk from exposed or infected animals.

Paraguay faced an outbreak around 10 years ago, and while no recent outbreaks have been reported, concerns remain about response and mitigation.

When a proposal was published through the Federal Register to amend USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service regulations and allow the import of fresh beef from Paraguay in March 2023, Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association, alongside our national affiliate National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, opposed the proposed rule. Congressional leaders also rallied to help ensure the safety of the U.S. cattle herd.

Despite these efforts, a final rule was published in November 2023.

Congressman Ronny Jackson, along with fellow representatives from Texas, U.S. Reps. Brian Babin, Troy Nehls, August Pfluger and Keith Self, introduced House Joint Resolution 115 under the Congressional Review Act opposing the final rule. The House Joint Resolution was sent to the House Agriculture Committee, and at time of press, awaited further action.

The Senate also took action under the Congressional Review Act. Senate Joint Resolution 62, sponsored by U.S. Sen. Jon Tester, rolled back the USDA rule. The Senate Joint Resolution passed in March 2024. Having passed the Senate, the legislation moved to the House for further consideration.

The first resolution to make it through both chambers will be sent to the President’s desk for final passage.

Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association looks forward to working with partners in the beef industry to ensure the successful passage of one of the joint resolutions — and to repeal this harmful rule. T C

Missy Bonds , of Bonds Ranch near Saginaw, is a member of the Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association board of directors.

STANDING WITH US

Dr. Ronny Jackson was raised in Levelland, and after working as a roustabout in the West Texas oilfields, he paid his way through undergraduate school at Texas A&M University. Following graduation from medical school at the University of Texas Medical Branch, he began active-duty service in the U.S. Navy.

With training in undersea medicine, Jackson used his talents while assigned to locations ranging from Panama City, Florida, to Sigonella, Italy. He completed his residency in emergency medicine, finishing at the top of his class. Soon thereafter, he deployed to Iraq to lead efforts for a combat Surgical Shock Trauma Platoon.

was also physician to the President under the Trump Administration, and in January 2019, President Donald J. Trump appointed him as chief medical advisor and assistant to the President.

In December 2019, Jackson retired from the U.S. Navy as a rear admiral. He returned to Texas and ran for U.S. Congress, and was elected to serve Texas’ 13th Congressional District in November 2020. His committee assignments include the House Agriculture Committee, the House Armed Services Committee, the House Foreign Affairs Committee and the House Select Subcommittee on the Coronavirus Pandemic.

While serving in Iraq, he was called back to the states to serve in the White House Medical Unit during President George W. Bush’s Administration. Jackson served as director of the White House Medical Unit and physician to the President during the Obama Administration. He

While in office, Jackson has been an advocate for cattle raisers in his home district and across the entire state and country. He introduced House Joint Resolution 115 that, if signed into law, would reverse USDA’s final rule allowing fresh beef imports from Paraguay — and protect U.S. cattle producers from a catastrophic foreign animal disease outbreak. T C

U.S. Rep. Ronny Jackson

MARKET BOONS

CattleFax forecast paints a friendly picture for beef producers.

By Diane Meyer

With rainfall forecasts on the fritz, cattle producers need good news about the markets. And that’s exactly what they received from CattleFax CEO Randy Blach at the recent Cattle Raisers Convention & Expo in Fort Worth.

In his presentation March 22, he predicted cattle prices and beef demand will remain strong despite looming potential for dry weather.

Echoing last year’s discussion around tighter supplies and higher prices, Blach said markets are behaving seasonably for the cow-calf, feeder and fed cattle sectors.

The fed cattle market will likely average up to $180 cwt. for the year, with highs at the break of the fall season (Figure 1).

After a decade of roller coaster price swings in the feeder cattle index from $240 to $120 cwt., prices are back at the $250 range, with deferred futures trading around $270 cwt. Blach highly encouraged risk management tactics to combat volatility, even with anticipated seasonal patterns.

Meanwhile, the expert said cow-calf producers should enjoy stout prices the next couple years. Blach reiterated a key difference in this cattle cycle compared to the last: the expansion rate of the national beef cow herd.

1: Annual U.S. Average Cattle Prices

Source: CattleFax

The fastest growth in history occurred from 2014 to 2019, with approximately 1.5 million cows added in the South Plains region alone. Drought and unrelenting interest rates have stunted growth this time around. That same region — which includes Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas and Missouri — documented a mere 200,000 head increase from 2019 to 2024.

“The market is short on what everybody needs,” Blach said. “We’re short on available inventory all the way through the system.”

With all this considered, Blach offered his best answer to the big question: What’s the market to do?

Fig.

Market Signals

Price signals for higher supplies are calling for more imports. Feeder cattle from Mexico and Canada are expected to top 1.6 million at the end of the year.

Supplies of beef-on-dairy cross calves are also soaring. Blach believes these calves will consistently supply the industry for the next 10 to 15 years, with potential to surpass 4 million head — representing 15% of fed slaughter numbers — on an annual basis in the next few years.

After five years of supply exceeding available shackle space, steer and heifer slaughter is declining and normalizing margins. Last year’s weekly steer and heifer slaughter averages were noticeably less than in 2022, with especially tight margins since July 2023.

“These markets do sort it out and, in my opinion, the market needs to sort it out,” Blach said. “I think we need to stay focused on that as we go forward.”

Steer and heifer harvest numbers are down 188,000 head year-to-date, with a total reduction of 800,000 expected this year. Tight numbers are translating to record value for market cows.

In turn, there are record high prices for lean beef, which represents more than 50% of all beef consumed domestically within the U.S.

January and February saw chart-topping lean imports, namely from Australia and New Zealand, with premiums from the U.S. market reaching 40 to 50 cents per pound.

“When our market needs it, it’s going to send these price signals and we’ll move the supply,” Blach reiterated. “That’s what we’re doing — we’re importing this product.”

Low cattle numbers beg the question: Is there enough beef for consumers?

Unfortunately for beef shoppers, little relief in retail prices are in sight, as the smallest beef supplies are expected in 2026. If La Niña worsens, that deficit could seep into 2027.

But the good news — and a major differentiating factor from the last cattle cycle, Blach said — is that nearly 106 billion pounds of protein are available in the marketplace, 18 billion of which are exported.

In contrast, 92 billion pounds of beef, pork and poultry were produced in 2014.

Even though consumers will have more choices, will they continue to pay top dollar for protein?

Beef. It’s Still for Dinner.

Yes, Blach believes. Across all animal proteins, substitute proteins account for a mere 0.2% of the market, and 0.3% of beef substitutes.

The picture is brightest for beef, with demand at 30-plus-year highs. Despite a tight economy stretching

pocketbooks thin, retail prices are likely to average $8 per pound.

“The profitability we have in this industry is about demand growth. It’s that simple,” Blach said.

Unrelenting demand, he attested, is no accident. Cattle raisers are being rewarded for delivering consistency and marbling, the latter of which pork strayed from in recent decades.

Case in point, the biggest production of beef occurred 2021 through 2024 and garnered the highest premiums ever for Choice, high Choice and Prime. In 2023, beef spending totaled $148 billion, compared to $81 billion for pork and $90 billion for poultry.

Blach reminded the audience everything circles around to market signals — and the marketplace has shifted from supply-driven to demand-driven. It’s why more than 80% of cattle today hit the Choice and Prime benchmarks, up from 50% in the early 2000s.

“We have been the beneficiaries of strong demand only because we put a tremendous product in front of consumers,” he said. T C

Diane Meyer is the associate director of content for Grant Company based in St. Joseph, Missouri.

CattleFax CEO Randy Blach presents during the 2024 Cattle Raisers Convention & Expo. Photo by Kayla Jennings.

CONVENTION CHATTER

147TH CATTLE RAISERS CONVENTION & EXPO IN THE BOOKS

The 2024 Cattle Raisers Convention & Expo drew more than 4,300 attendees to downtown Fort Worth March 22-24.

The agenda featured three prominent main-stage sessions addressing pivotal topics such as agricultural policy, a 2024 weather forecast and a market outlook.

The renowned culinary couple Lisa and Tom Perini, alongside NBC 5 news anchor, Deborah Ferguson, also took the stage, inviting audiences to their kitchen table the entire audience to their kitchen table for conversation about cattle, beef and the people who bring us together.

During the Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association Annual Meeting, attendees elected a new officer team: Carl Ray Polk Jr., president; Stephen Diebel, first-vice president; and Dan Gattis, second-vice president, secretary and treasurer.

Two members were newly elected to serve on the association’s board of directors: Bill Cawley, Crockett; and Lloyd French IV, Houston.

The association also added three members to its executive committee: David Crow, Corpus Christi; Joe Leathers, Guthrie; and Cody Webb, Barnhart.

This year’s event was filled with hours of educational sessions, live demonstrations, multiple student opportunities and competitions, alongside the expo featuring more than 290 exhibitor booths.

“Thank you to all the cattle raisers, landowners and industry partners who gave their time and support in making this event a success,” Polk said.

“Our dedicated team of volunteer leaders and staff worked tirelessly to put together an exceptional program highlighting the ideas, innovations and individuals helping shape the future of our industry.”

TSCRA officers and Texas Grazing Lands Coalition CEO Jenny Pluhar present Mike Turner, of Blue Ranch, with the Outstanding Rangeland Stewardship Award.

BLUE RANCH HONORED WITH 2024 TEXAS OUTSTANDING RANGELAND STEWARDSHIP AWARD

On March 24, Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association presented Blue Ranch with the Texas Outstanding Rangeland Stewardship Award at the 2024 Cattle Raisers Convention & Expo. The award recognized exceptional stewardship and innovation of the Panhandle-based cattle ranch.

Blue Ranch is owned by Rex and Susan McCloy, and managed by Mike Turner, who transitioned the operation from a feedyard to a cow-calf operation in 2013.

“Blue Ranch is an outstanding example of stewardship, and we’re proud to present them with this award,” said Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association Second Vice President Stephen Diebel. “Their dedication is evident in maintaining a sustainable and reliable operation, for generations to come.”

Blue Ranch spans more than 19,500 acres in Dumas.

The operation prioritizes resource management, innovative stocking strategies and conservation methods. These efforts have resulted in a significant increase in forage production, a boost in wildlife populations and notable improvements in stocking rates.

“Ranching practices implemented by the McCloys serve as a testament to their unwavering dedication to responsibly managing and utilizing the land’s resources,” Diebel said. “They have demonstrated exceptional resource management, setting clear goals and implementing environmental programs to optimize water and land usage.”

This 2024 Texas Outstanding Rangeland Stewardship Award is presented as a joint effort between Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association, Texas Section Society for Range Management and Texas Grazing Land Coalition.

Blue Ranch will compete among other outstanding ranchers in the 2024 National Cattlemen’s Foundation Environmental Stewardship Award Program.

ATASCOSA COUNTY TEXAS A&M AGRILIFE EXTENSION AGENT RECOGNIZED

Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association announced Dale Rankin, an Atascosa County Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Agent, as the 2024 Outstanding County Extension Agent – Beef.

The award was created to recognize Texas’ most dedicated and effective local educators.

Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association

Second Vice President Stephen Diebel noted the instrumental role of county extension agents to working alongside landowners to advance stewardship of land and livestock across Texas.

“The invaluable work of Texas A&M AgriLife Extension agents like Dale Rankin help advance the livestock community,” Diebel said. “Dale Rankin has shown tremendous commitment to educating landowners through programs and resources that not only better beef production locally, but help cattle raisers improve economics within their own operations.”

Rankin has 23 years of experience as a county Extension agent. In his current role, he has significantly elevated Atascosa County’s agricultural landscape.

Innovative initiatives like Brush Country Beef 706 and the Atascosa Club Calf Association have enhanced local beef production practices, adding substantial economic value to producers’ herds.

His proactive involvement in research collaborations and influential outreach efforts position Atascosa County as a hub of agricultural excellence, setting a benchmark for sustainable ranching and farming practices.

“Thank you for your commitment to educating others and your hard work in our industry,” Diebel said.

TEXAS TECH UNIVERSITY’S CONNOR KERN WINS GRADUATE POSTER SHOWCASE

True to the mission of Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association to invest in the next generation of beef industry leaders, the association hosted its third Graduate Research Poster Showcase March 23.

Seven students from top universities in the state traveled to Fort Worth to present their research posters to a panel of judges and convention attendees.

Score cards were tallied, and Connor Kern, a Texas Tech University animal science graduate student, took home top honors. Haleigh Prosser of Texas A&M University was second, and Kenleigh Thomas of West Texas A&M University was third.

“I’m happy that I’m able to come out here and present my research,” Kern said. “And we got a little something out of it, too.”

His project examined the effects of cottonseed meal supplementation on heifer performance and forage utilization while grazing late season summer forage.

The study spanned two summers with commercial Angus heifers broken into three weight blocks and nine paddocks. Each weight block received one of the three supplementation strategies.

The control group grazed with no cottonseed meal supplementation. The other two groups received the same amount of supplementation at different frequencies to mimic varying feeding strategies among ranchers.

“After two summers, we found that cottonseed meal supplementation to [both groups of] heifers grazing late summer forages provided sufficient protein to increase ruminal fiber digestibility, improved gain and muscle growth compared to the control,” he said. T C

TSCRA officers present Atascosa County Agent Dale Rankin, second from left, with the Outstanding County Extension Agent - Beef Award.

Connor Kern, a student at Texas Tech University, receives firstplace honor during the graduate poster showcase.

NATIONALLY RECOGNIZED

Texas ranch receives prestigious environmental stewardship award.

By Jaclyn Roberts Parrish

GBar C Ranch, a North Texas cattle ranch committed to sustainability, was named the national winner of the 2023 Environmental Stewardship Award Program, or ESAP, for its exemplary stewardship practices and conservation achievements.

The ranch, which is owned by GC and Mary Ellis and operated by their daughter Meredith and long-time ranch manager Michael Knabe, became the fifth Texas-based operation to be awarded the national title.

G Bar C Ranch was nominated by Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association to compete for the Region IV ESAP award after being named the 2023 Texas ESAP winner at the 2023 Cattle Raisers Convention & Expo.

G Bar C Ranch was named the Region IV ESAP winner in February allowing the ranch to then compete alongside five other cattle operations from across the U.S. for the national title.

"Seeing G Bar C Ranch recognized through such a respected platform as the National Environmental Stewardship Award Program is a proud moment for Texas,” said Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association President Carl Ray Polk Jr.

“G Bar C Ranch is an outstanding example of the state’s commitment to caring for the environment and protecting natural resources, and we’re honored to have conservation-minded Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association members like the Ellis family.”

G Bar C Ranch, located in Rosston, outside the sprawling Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, preserves

3,000 acres of diverse habitat supporting more than 660 cataloged species of plants, animals, birds, mosses, lichens and other ecological communities. The ranch implements an adaptive multi-paddock strategy that rotates cattle through 58 permanently fenced pastures.

The ranch also prioritizes water quality, implementing stewardship practices promoting clean water that feeds into the Trinity River, a water source responsible for half of Texans’ water needs.

“More than their commitment to the land is their commitment to helping others,” Polk said. “G Bar C Ranch opens its gates to research teams and ranchers from across the globe to study and learn from their operation.”

G Bar C Ranch received the national award in Washington, D.C., during the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association Legislative Conference. U.S. Rep. Michael Burgess commended the Ellis family and G Bar C Ranch.

“My sincere congratulations go out to Meredith Ellis for her recognition in receiving the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association’s prestigious Environmental Stewardship Award,” Burgess said. “Meredith’s impact toward our community is inspiring for all of Texas and will benefit many generations to come.”

ESAP was established in 1991 by National Cattlemen’s Beef Association to recognize outstanding stewardship practices and conservation achievements of U.S. cattle producers. The program provides landowners and ranch managers with examples of stewardship that can benefit cattle operations throughout the nation. T C

G Bar C Ranch receives the national ESAP award. From left, National Cattlemen’s Beef Association President Mark Eisele; Meredith, GC Jr., GC Sr. and Mary Ellis; and ESAP Chair Gary Price. Courtesy photo.

Join or renew your membership today.

Member benefits include the support of TSCRA Special Rangers, government relations advocacy, educational programs, networking and social events, member-only discounts, The Cattleman magazine and phone app, and insurance services.

To learn more about membership, scan the code above or visit TSCRA.org.

Please thank the representatives from these companies for their support of TSCRA programs.

We appreciate all the sponsors and partners who support our organization year after year.

THANK YOU

TSCRA members — ask about discounts from the following partners!

WHAT’S HAPPENING AT TSCRA

TSCRA MEETS WITH D.C. OFFICIALS DURING LEGISLATIVE FLY-IN

Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association leaders and staff traveled to Washington, D.C., April 17-19 to discuss critical issues impacting cattle raisers with more than 20 government officials.

Priority issues included ongoing conversations about passing a farm bill with funding for key conservation and risk management provisions, and increased funding for electronic ID tags and related equipment for cattle. Additionally, improving tax policy to better meet the needs of rural landowners was also covered. This includes permanently repealing the estate tax, which disproportionately impacts ranchers and landowners.

The meetings provided a platform to address Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association’s opposition to proposed revisions to the definition of “prompt payment” in the Packers and Stockyards Act. These revisions to the definiton would subject cattle raisers to unnecessary delays in receiving payments.

Texas-specific issues included raising concerns about the development of a high-speed rail across rural Texas, and the ongoing need to secure the border between Texas and Mexico.

TSCRA JOINS CONGRESSIONAL LEADERS AND HEARS FROM JAPANESE PRIME MINISTER

In April, Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association First Vice President Stephen Diebel and Executive Vice President and CEO Jason Skaggs attended a joint meeting of Congress in Washington, D.C., where Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida addressed U.S. congressional leaders.

The association was a guest of U.S. Rep. Jodey Arrington, who represents district 19, chairs the U.S. House Budget Committee and is a strong supporter of the Texas cattle industry.

“Japan is the second largest export market for U.S. beef, accounting for $1.8 billion in beef exports in 2023,” Diebel said. “This market has opportunity to grow by $380 million in the next 10 years and continued growth will rely on strong trade relations between the U.S. and Japan.”

In addition to meeting with Arrington, Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association also met with U.S. House Agriculture Committee members Ronny Jackson, Texas District 13, and Tracey Mann, Kansas District 1. U.S. Rep. Mann also chairs the Livestock, Dairy and Poultry Subcommittee.

The group discussed the ongoing issues facing ranchers and landowners along the Texas-Mexico border, onerous federal regulatory outreach and the need for a balanced federal budget.

HOLBROOKS JOINS POLICY TEAM IN AUSTIN

Paige Holbrooks, a West Texas native, joined Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association June 3 as the director of policy communications.

She grew up on a cow-calf operation near Gail, where she said work ethic and a passion for the industry kept food on the table and her dad’s banker happy.

During her sophomore year of high school, she served as a Texas Beef Council Ambassador and traveled to the Texas Panhandle, expanding her view of the industry.

Left — U.S. Sen. John Cornyn shares a handshake with TSCRA President Carl Ray Polk Jr. Right — TSCRA First Vice President Stephen Diebel with Meredith Ellis, national ESAP winner.

U.S. Rep. Jodey Arrington, pictured center, stands for a photo with TSCRA’s Jason Skaggs, left, and Stephen Diebel, right.

Paige Holbrooks

Holbrooks said participating in commercial steer contests during high school increased her knowledge and exposure to the highs and lows of producing highquality protein.

She graduated from West Texas A&M University in May 2022 with a bachelor’s degree in agricultural media and communication. This May, she earned a master’s in agriculture with a specialization in agribusiness and economics from the same university.

Holbrooks said she has found her purpose in sharing the story of agriculture through writing, listening and advocating for those who feed the world.

“Encounters within the beef industry have led me to where I am, and I look forward to where they take me in my new role with TSCRA,” Holbrooks said. “I feel fortunate to have the opportunity to work with beef producers and represent the industry.”

TSCRA WELCOMES SUMMER INTERNS

Four interns joined the Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association team May 20. Kyla Beck, Karlee Busher and Tatum Christie are based in the Fort Worth office, and work across all departments. Payton Ramsey is a policy intern based in Austin.

Beck, originally from San Antonio, and has been active on her family’s commercial cow-calf operation in Cibolo, where her passion for agriculture began. Her family moved the operation to Seguin in 2013, where she lived until she graduated high school and moved to College Station to attend Texas A&M University in August 2022.

An incoming senior, Beck studies agribusiness and is involved in many campus activities. In 2023, she was part of the National Champion Collegiate Wool Judging team and is currently a member of the 2024 Texas A&M Meat Judging team, which was undefeated in the spring season.

Busher is a recent graduate of Texas Tech University with a bachelor’s degree in agricultural communications, and dual minors in agribusiness management and political science. Originally from Winters, she grew up working on her family’s cattle operation, which consists of a stocker enterprise and cow-calf herd.

During her time on campus, Busher served as associate editor for the 2024 edition of The Agriculturist, official publication of the Davis College of Agricultural Sciences & Natural Resources. She was also a member of Agricultural Communicators of Tomorrow and assisted with recruitment and promotion for Davis College as an Agri-Techsan.

Christie was born and raised in the agricultural industry and graduated high school from a small East Texas town. Growing up, her family exhibited and raised competitive club lambs along with a handful of hogs, cattle and goats.

After a successful FFA and 4-H career, Christie continued her education and livestock judging career at South Plains College and then Texas Tech University. She is currently a senior at Texas Tech and will graduate in August 2024 with a bachelor’s degree in agricultural communications. Christie says she has a deep understanding of the livestock industry that drives her belief in its long-term sustainability.

Ramsey grew up on her family’s cow-calf operation in Garrison and has always wanted to pursue a career serving the U.S. cattle industry. She earned her undergraduate degree in animal science from Texas A&M University. As a student, she interned with the U.S. House of Representatives, which ultimately led her to attend law school.

Ramsey currently attends Texas A&M University School of Law in Fort Worth and will graduate in May 2025 with a concentration in domestic public policy. She has interned with the USDA Office of the General Counsel and serves as a senior staffer for the Texas A&M Law Review and as the deputy managing editor for the Journal of Civil Law and Governance. She also continues to own and operate R3 Cattle Co., which raises show cattle for 4-H and FFA exhibitors.

AMICUS BRIEF HELPS REVERSE IMPLIED EASEMENT INVOLVING GILLESPIE COUNTY RANCH

In March, the Court of Appeals of the Seventh District of Texas at Amarillo reversed a previous ruling in Bloxom v. Mutt Land Holdings LP reaffirming an important precedent related to implied easements being imposed by trial courts.

The ruling came after Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association submitted an amicus brief supporting long-time ranchers and members, Tom and Lou Bloxom.

“Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association was proud to see the Amarillo Court of Appeals uphold fundamental private property rights through their ruling in Bloxom v. Mutt Land Holdings LP,” said President Carl Ray Polk Jr.

“The case represents a new and concerning trend across Texas in areas where subdivisions and other developments are springing up near existing ranches.

Kyla Beck

Karlee Busher

Tatum Christie

Payton Ramsey

In the News

“District courts are increasingly bypassing the trial process and granting easements across adjacent ranches by summary judgment. This ruling affirms the longstanding protection of private property rights in Texas law.”

AMICUS BRIEF SUPPORTING LANDOWNERS IN SUPREME COURT GROUNDWATER OWNERSHIP DISPUTE

Through the filing of an amicus brief at the Texas Supreme Court in Cactus Water Services LLC v. COG Operating LLC, Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association petitioned the court to review a case confirming ownership of produced water. The amicus brief was submitted in April.

This comes after a trial court previously ruled that COG owns the produced water that surfaces during oil and gas operations. On appeal, the Eighth Court of Appeals affirmed the trial court and agreed that COG owns the produced water resulting from its operations.

Cactus Water filed the latest Petition for Review with the Texas Supreme Court.

Believing that groundwater is the property of the surface owner, Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association reiterated the property rights at stake in this litigation and argued that the Court of Appeals’ decision significantly undermines private property rights.

“Perhaps no private property right is as important in this generation as the longstanding principle of groundwater ownership,” said Carl Ray Polk Jr., association president.

“In the case of Cactus v. COG, the Texas Supreme Court has an opportunity to clarify and reassert important principles regarding the landowner’s ownership of groundwater. Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association and its more than 28,000 members look to the court to continue its tradition of upholding fundamental private property rights and believe that this amicus brief will provide important policy background on the issues as well as the implications of the decision by the court.”

Experience a unique milestone in conservation at The Working Lands Innovation Summit, proudly hosted by the Texas Agricultural Land Trust. Breaking barriers, this year’s summit opens its doors to all who share our commitment to preserving Texas’s natural heritage. Landowners, industry leaders, and stakeholders alike are invited to join us for an insightful discussion on progress and challenges ahead.

Moderated by Ed Roberson, Mountain & Prairie Podcast

Together, let’s pave the way for the next generation of land stewards. At the beautiful Birdwell & Clark Ranch in Henrietta, TX. Register online at TXaglandtrust.org Oct. 10, 2024

DIRECT-TOCONSUMER BEEF

Ranching 101 webinar June 18 discusses tips and trends.

Join Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association for a Ranching 101 webinar 1 p.m. Tuesday, June 18.

Featured speakers Megan Foote and Katy Kemp will cover emerging trends in online meat sales, and how to make informed choices about meat purchases.

Interested members can register for the hour-long Zoom webinar by scanning the QR code below.

Foote is the co-owner and CEO of Foote Family Meats in Clovis, New Mexico. She and her husband, Garrett, live on his family’s farm in Texico, New Mexico, where he helps manage the family’s stocker cattle business and feeds cattle for their meat business.

Foote handles the daily operations and marketing for Foote Family Meats, which has grown from an online store selling frozen beef to a high-end, full-service meat market focused on retail and wholesale proteins in eastern New Mexico and West Texas.

Kemp is the fifth generation on her family’s Angus ranch. Kemp Angus Farm in Staples focuses on raising functional Angus cattle in South Central Texas on the edge of the hill country and along the San Marcos River.

In 2018, Kemp Angus Farm shifted from mostly selling Angus bulls to primarily selling high-quality Angus beef directly from their farm to area consumers. Growing their direct-to-market beef business allowed the farm to be strict with culling, only keeping the best animals as breeding stock from each calf crop.

With their dedication to raising cattle that produce high-quality beef, more than 85% of their total herd and 100% of the males they raise and sell as breeding bulls carry Certified Angus Beef’s Targeting the Brand logo — that’s significantly higher than the national average.

Ranching 101 registration is complimentary for any association member. Visit tscra.org to learn more. T C

Theft & Law

PONTOTOC COUNTY MAN ARRESTED, STEALING CATTLE FROM OKLAHOMA SALE BARN

Jason Don Price charged with 44 counts of larceny of livestock following cattle theft from Southern Oklahoma Livestock Auction.

A native of Roff, Oklahoma, Jason Don Price, also known as “Bacon,” was arrested and charged with 44 felony counts of larceny of livestock for allegedly stealing cattle from the Southern Oklahoma Livestock Auction in Ada, Oklahoma.

The arrest comes after an investigation led by Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association Special Ranger Cody Hyde.

Hyde initiated an investigation in January 2024 at the request of the Southern Oklahoma Livestock Auction. Evidence obtained from the sale barn supported allegations that Price unlawfully acquired 44 head of cattle from the auction between January 2023 and February 2024.

The investigation revealed Price generated fraudulent documents for cattle at Southern Oklahoma Livestock Auction’s inventory, listing them for sale under his girlfriend’s name.

Hyde located Price at his residence in Roff and upon questioning, obtained probable cause. Price

was arrested Feb. 28 and booked into the Pontotoc County jail.

Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association thanks the Pontotoc County District Attorney’s office for their collaborative efforts in this investigation to successfully bring this case to prosecution. Individuals with any information regarding potential co-conspirators involved in Price’s illegal activities are urged to call Hyde at 918-315-2925.

SHELBY COUNTY MAN ARRESTED FOR THEFT OF LIVESTOCK AND EXPLOITATION OF THE ELDERLY

TSCRA Special Ranger investigation led to the arrest of Danny Matthew Wright.

Danny Matthew Wright, of Timpson, was arrested Jan. 5 on charges of theft of livestock and exploitation of the elderly.

The arrest stems from an investigation conducted by Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association Special Ranger Darrel Bobbitt. He received a report indicating Wright, a ranch hand, stole cattle from his employer, an elderly resident of Shelby County.

With assistance from Shelby County Constables, Josh Tipton and Taylor Fanguy, the team identified the stolen cow through a brand registered to the victim.

An impaneled grand jury, presented with the findings of the investigation, indicted Wright for the theft of livestock and exploitation of the elderly.

Wright was released on bond Jan. 9 and is pending trial.

Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association thanks Shelby County Constable’s Office for their joint efforts in this investigation bringing the case to prosecution. T C

Cody Hyde District 3

TSCRA Special Ranger

Darrel Bobbitt District 14

TSCRA Special Ranger

Corral Design Service

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

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

Burlington Feedyard

Logan Hardin, Manager

Burlington, CO

office: (719) 346-8532 cell: (620) 575-6702

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

Ulysses Feedyard

Adam Gerrond, Manager

Ulysses, KS

office: (620) 356-1750 cell: (806) 390-9034

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

Syracuse Feedyard

Phil Moreman, Manager

Syracuse, KS

office: (620) 384-7431

cell: (806) 340-4790

Theft & Law

DISTRICT 3 — EASTERN OKLAHOMA

Two calves missing in Garvin County.

Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association

Special Ranger Cody Hyde reports two calves missing off East County Road 1590 in Lindsay. Last seen March 30, the two black calves weigh approximately 70 pounds. Anyone with information on this case is urged to contact Hyde at 918-315-2925.

DISTRICT 12 — NORTHEAST TEXAS

Cow-calf pair missing in Delta County.

Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association

Special Ranger Bo Fox reports a cow-calf pair missing from a property near County Road 4230 in Cooper. The black Angus cow has an orange Allflex tag with no. 9 in the right ear. The three-week-old black Angus calf has no ear tag or markings. They were last seen March 8. Anyone with information on this case is urged to contact Fox at 903-348-9638.

DISTRICT 19 — CENTRAL TEXAS

Cattle missing in Crockett County.

Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association

Special Ranger H.D. Brittain reports 10 Red Angus and Red Angus-cross cows missing from Crockett County University land. The cows are branded with “JB” connected or “Rafter S” on their left hip. They were last seen October 2023.

Angus bull missing in Schleicher County.

Brittain also reports a black Angus bull missing. The five-year-old bull has a red ear tag with No. PF 1972 and branded with “MA” connected on the left hip. He was last seen Jan. 15. Anyone with information on these cases is urged to contact Brittain at 325-340-2268.

DISTRICT 25 — SOUTHEAST TEXAS

Bull missing near Lavaca-DeWitt county line.

Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association

Special Ranger Robert Fields reports a red Simbrah bull missing off FM Road 951. The 5-year-old bull is branded with a pitchfork and three waves on the left hip. He was last seen March 19.

Cattle missing in Gonzales County.

Fields also reports six head of cattle missing off State Hwy 183 in Gonzales. The three-year-old Braford heifers are branded with a “Rocking T” on their left hip. Five of the heifers went missing in August 2023. An additional heifer went missing in February 2024. Anyone with information on these cases is urged to contact Fields at 361-207-5207.

DISTRICT 26 — CENTRAL TEXAS

Angus bull missing in Brown County.

Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association Special Ranger Todd Jennings reports a black Angus bull missing off CR 225 near Brownwood. The bull weighs approximately 1,800 pounds with a No. 26 green ear tag in the left ear and a “J open AL connected” brand on the left hip. He was last seen March 10. Anyone with information on 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.

Theft & Law

Fine: $1,000

Restitution: $5,000

Court Costs: $342

TSCRA Special Ranger: Darrel Bobbitt

ALI FEDELL — DEFENDANT

Date of Birth: Oct. 17, 2001

Offense: Theft of Livestock

Date of Offense: June 11, 2022

Victim: Madison Mitchell

Location of Offense: Houston County

Trial Date: May 15, 2023

Trial Court: 349th District Court

Plea: Guilty

Sentence: 5 years, deferred adjudication

Fine: $250

Court Costs: $402

TSCRA Special Ranger: Darrel Bobbitt

CODY LOCKETT — DEFENDANT

Date of Birth: Oct. 26, 1992

Offense: Theft of Livestock

Date of Offense: June 11, 2022

Victim: Madison Mitchell

Location of Offense: Houston County

Trial Date: Nov. 13, 2023

Trial Court: 349th District Court

Plea: Guilty

Sentence: 10 years, state penitentiary. Alternate sentencing resulted in the 10-year sentence suspended to five years of probation.

CHARLES ALLEN ROBINSON JR. — DEFENDANT

Date of Birth: Dec. 1, 1980

Offense: Theft of cattle/horse/exotic livestock, less than $150,000

Date of Offense: Jan. 29, 2022

Victim: Charles Williamson

Location of Offense: Rusk County

Trial Date: March 20, 2024

Trial Court: 4th District Court, Rusk County

Plea: Guilty

Sentence: 10 years, state penitentiary

Fine: Declared indigent

Court Costs: $290

Additional Offense: Resist arrest search or transport

Date of Offense: Jan. 27, 2022

Case Dismissed: April 2, 2024

Alternate Sentence: Length of time served on felony charge is greater than the maximum allowed for this offense.

Additional Offense: Evading arrest/detention

Date of Offense: Jan. 27, 2022

Case Dismissed: April 2, 2024

Alternate Sentence: Length of time served on felony charge is greater than the maximum allowed for this offense.

TSCRA Special Rangers: Lead Investigator, Larry Hand; Assisting Investigators, Darrell Bobbitt and Bo Fox. T C

Ranching PASSION & PURPOSE

Three leaders share insights during Cattle Raisers Convention & Expo.

By Kayla Jennings

Storied pasts from a saddle in Saginaw to the heart of deep South Texas and the horse races in Florida united in Cowtown during the Women in Ranching Panel held March 22 during Cattle Raisers Convention & Expo.

Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association Director Missy Bonds moderated a discussion between Leslie Kinsel, of Kinsel Cattle Co., and Molly McAdams, of Texas Beef Council.

Bonds has always called her family’s commercial operation in Saginaw home, and has brought her own life experiences back to the ranch to ensure its longterm sustainability and success. In addition to her college degrees, she has taken advantage of many leadership development opportunities to refine her skills and give back not only to her family business, but also to the beef industry through service opportunities.

Giving back has also been a mantra for Kinsel through her lifetime. For her, an industry passion stemmed from humble beginnings with her family’s small herd alongside her parents’ full-time jobs. Today, her words come through the lens of a seasoned South Texas rancher, wife and mother, who has devoted much of her time to organizations like Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association, including serving on its board of directors.

From an unsuspecting start as the daughter of a racehorse veterinarian in Florida who began her college career as an art major, McAdams is now most comfortable speaking about her passion for beef to anyone who will listen. Life’s circumstances through college professors and peers have led her on a journey to fiercely advocating for the beef industry, drawing on her meat science experience and strong communications skills.

Whether these women were born in the beef industry or got there as fast as they could, these leaders were eager to share their experiences and advice to a room full of young producers and professionals.

Bonds posed these questions and more to guide the conversation. The following are excerpts from the panel, edited only for clarity and length.

Q: What do you find most rewarding about agriculture, specifically cattle production?

KINSEL: I started out getting involved in Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association by serving on a committee. Get in there, volunteer your time, serve and meet the most wonderful people in the world. These are some of our best friends at cattle raisers meetings. That’s the most rewarding part by far — getting to work with, know and love good people.

MCADAMS: Some board service that you do will be thankless, but you’re going to develop close friendships through that service. You’re going to help raise their kids because you spend so much time with them. We’re all here for the same reasons. We believe in the mission of Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association. When you find a cause that you believe in, the people come along for the ride.

BONDS: We were affected by the fires in the Panhandle, and it was incredible to see the outpouring of support within hours of the fires coming through of

Industry leaders, from left to right, Molly McAdams, Missy Bonds and Leslie Kinsel took the stage during the 2024 Cattle Raisers Convention & Expo to encourage young producers.

hay, feed and calls from people asking what they can do. People who have hardly anything to their names were calling and willing to give the shirt off their back to make sure that you have something. There is not another industry out here that would do that. That right there is what I love the most about this industry.

Q: Can you share a particularly memorable or challenging experience you’ve had in the cattle industry?

BONDS: For me, there was a time when I hadn’t been home from college for long and my dad had gotten sick. He was having surgery, and I was having to ship cattle by myself for the first time ever. The cattle were 150 pounds light and 75 head short. Luckily the representative for the feedyard came to me and said, ‘If you can find a home for these cattle, we’ll let you keep them until they make contract.’ Within 20 minutes, I found a home for 10 loads of cattle.

KINSEL: My most challenging experience after I married a rancher was volunteering to do some of the bookkeeping. I took one accounting course in college, but I barely got through it. I am married to a boss man who keeps his cattle count on the backs of envelopes in a cubby hole in the desk behind him. You probably can’t read his writing either. If you have good handwriting, get rid of it right now. That’s the secret to being a cattle rancher.

MCADAMS: My husband was the first vice president with National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, and the day after our son was born — while we were still in the hospital — the first BSE case broke in the U.S. He was on the road nonstop, and I was working as an officer for HEB at the time. It was mayhem at our house.

We all go through it. I think the story is that you don’t know how resilient you are until you face something. Usually what you do is you put your head down and you start working.

Q: What advice do you have for young producers looking to build their network?

MCADAMS: You just take the initiative. You are taught to do it in 4-H and FFA, and it’s critical because everyone has to rely on a network at some point. You want to make sure you’ve got a good one, and you’ve invested in it.

It’s a give and take — that’s part of the friendship and networking. Make it a habit to ask people, ‘How can I help you?’

KINSEL: Step outside your comfort zone. As a young person, not only was I shy, but I also thought I knew it all already. The older I get, the less I know. Go ahead and start conversations, whether it’s to offer something you have or to find out something you might want to know.

Q: What are your thoughts on the future?

KINSEL: The beef industry is going to survive, but not without a lot of battles ahead of us. It’s going to survive because, for the people we’re talking about, this is their passion, their love and they’re going to fight for it. Stay aware, stay involved and be ready to do your part.

MCADAMS: I fight daily for this industry. Here’s what I truly believe about ranching and beef. I do believe that beef is absolutely the highest quality protein a human can consume. Our biggest challenge is there’s less than 2% of people involved in agriculture.

What I find in my own fight is we have such a great positive story about our impact on communities, the environment and sustainability. Our product sustains human life better than anything except for probably water — and this is another great war that we’ll all be battling.

The passion that I have for the industry goes so deep, because I know that what we do makes a positive difference in the entire world. T C

Photo by Kayla Jennings

RANCH Horse Care

Considerations from 6666 Ranch resident veterinarian Dr. Nathan Canaday.

By Kristen Brown

“At its finest, rider and horse are joined not by tack, but by trust. Each is totally reliant upon the other. Each is the selfless guardian of the other’s very well-being.” — Author Unknown

Historically, horses go hand-in-hand with ranching. Even as technology and innovations develop, the role of a ranch horse remains.

Proper care of the cowboy’s confidant is of utmost importance and relies heavily on relationships — both with industry experts and the horse itself.

On a recent TSCRA Talk podcast episode, Dr. Nathan Canaday, horse division manager and resident veterinarian of the 6666 Ranch, shared his knowledge and experience on the proactive care of ranch horses.

A solid foundation includes everything from incorporating strong genetics, providing quality forage and implementing a proper vaccination program for brood mares after foals are born.

Similarly, their teeth need to be evaluated regularly and floated when necessary to remove sharp points.

Dr. Nathan Canaday

“Good forage is the majority of what they need for nutrition, and then from there it is adding supplements based on what life stage they are in and their workload,” Canaday said.

Similar to managing cattle, a ranch horse program is specific to the individual ranch needs and goals. Age, forage quality, exposures and daily tasks of the horse are factors to consider when evaluating nutrition supplementation and establishing vaccine protocols, as well as general healthcare protocols.

As foals grow and halter breaking begins, Canaday encouraged establishing a positive human-horse bond early, which will cultivate a relationship to build upon during training.

In evaluating a horse’s exterior needs, hoof care is vital, ensuring their hooves are trimmed and balanced.

“Every horse is different,” Canaday said. “I'm a firm believer in making all decisions based on what's best for the horse. Some horses need floated every six months, but I know of some horses that need floated every two to three years.”

Year-round care

Considering Texas experiences all four seasons, Canaday spoke to the care of horses in both the summer and the winter — with the common factor being hydration.

During the colder weather horses may not be as thirsty and may not drink enough water, which can lead to colic. Breaking ice is vital to provide access to water, and water heaters may be beneficial for certain horses.

Another wintertime consideration is shelter — a lean-to or natural cover such as draws, ravines and brush to provide a block from the north wind. As the temperatures heat up, electrolytes can support working horses to ensure proper hydration.

Different seasons also bring different pests.

Summertime flies can be treated in a variety of ways including sprays, pour-ons and feed-through products. Because ticks are common in the wintertime, horses need to be checked often and treated appropriately.

Taking a full-scope view of horse care, Canaday discussed the importance of maintaining pens, pastures and tack, as well as hauling horses with a dependable pickup and trailer.

Ranching

“I've seen over the years here at Guthrie various wrecks along the highway, where somebody had a bad trailer and the floor fell out of it,” Canaday said.

“Whether a gate comes unlatched, or a pickup broke down and then they're on the side of the road in the heat for hours, lots of problems can arise if you don't have a good truck and trailer.”

Similarly, it is beneficial to have basic veterinary supplies on hand at the ranch and a box or bag of supplies to take when traveling with horses.

“Inevitably, horses just seem to love to get hurt and they're going to get hurt when you're not at home or when you don't have a vet nearby,” Canaday said.

“Work with your vet on a ‘go bag’ of things to get you by until you can get your horse to a vet if something bad happens.”

When problems arise, he underscores the importance of a relationship and communication with a veterinarian.

“Don’t forget that your horses rely on you as much as you rely on them,” Canaday said.

To hear more, download TSCRA Talk via Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify or Stitcher. T C

Kristen Brown, from Dalhart, is host of the TSCRA Talk podcast.

From genetics to quality nutrition, and vaccinations to hoof care, Dr. Nathan Canaday talks caring for ranch horses in an episode of the TSCRA Talk podcast. Photo by Bee Silva.

WHAT PLANT IS IMPORTANT FOR THE MONTH OF JUNE?

By Kent Ferguson

Photo by Charmaine Richardson, Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center

Black dalea is a woody shrub found growing throughout central, north and the western regions of Texas, as well as Oklahoma and New Mexico. It prefers shallow, rocky and thin soils, but can survive on sandy to clay soils.

Black dalea is part of the legume family, often called prairie clovers. This plant:

• Is a thornless shrub reaching 3-feet tall and 4- to 5-feet wide. It has gray to light-brown stems with alternate, pea-like, odd-pinnately compound leaves.

• Produces dense spikes of flowers with bright purple petals with orange dots. The flowers will mostly show from July until October.

• Can have many grayish-green leaflets, with resin dots on the lower leaflets. Leaves are often up to 3/4 inch long with 13 to 17 leaflets, which are less

than a 1/4 inch long with one terminal leaf on the central stem.

• Produces a small pod from the flowers that is an indiscreet capsule containing one or two seeds.

Black dalea is sought by livestock, white-tailed deer and turkey. Overgrazing can eliminate this plant from pastures, and it is often found hiding under and in other plants for protection. Protein levels can exceed 10% to 15%, and turkey like the seed.

If this drought-tolerant plant is identified in a pasture, take caution and manage appropriately to ensure it remains healthy. 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.

Black dalea (Dalea fructescens)

BQA TIP: SULFUR SCIENCE

Considered a secondary plant nutrient, adding sulfur to deficient soils can improve forage production.

However, overapplying sulfur with ammonium sulfate or in other fertilizers is costly and can have negative impacts on soil pH, animal performance and health.

The sulfur requirement for cattle is estimated at 0.15% of the dry-matter diet. Sulfur levels reaching above 0.35% to 0.5% can result in reduced absorption of other important minerals and have negative impacts on cattle growth and health.

Checking sulfur levels in hay samples can be helpful to ensure sulfur is not overapplied. T C

Photo by Jerod Foster

GROWING Demand

Seven ways USMEF promotes U.S. beef around the world.

Competition is fierce on the global stage, and the Beef Checkoff works diligently to encourage foreign countries to feature U.S. beef as their protein choice.

As a result of the Checkoff’s efforts, more consumers around the world want the high-quality products cattlemen and women produce — growing demand and increasing the value of U.S. beef.

Here are seven ways U.S. Meat Export Federation has recently worked to grow beef demand abroad, funded in part by the Beef Checkoff.

1. Hong Kong Event Promotes American Barbecue and Celebrates Foodservice

The 14th edition of the Great American Texas Barbecue Hong Kong attracted 850 chefs, merchandisers, restaurant owners, distributors and U.S. suppliers, who turned out to sample American barbecue, reconnect with industry partners and learn new menu ideas and concepts. Brisket, ribs and sausages were expertly cooked and smoked, while new items such as the steamship round were featured.

2. New Industry Resource Captures Culinary Evolution of the Caribbean

The Contemporary Caribbean Cuisine textbook promotes the incorporation of U.S. beef and pork into Caribbean cuisine, honoring local traditions and regional variations. Developed in collaboration with local food scholars and chefs, the textbook is a comprehensive resource for culinary schools and professionals, highlighting the diverse cultural influences shaping Caribbean dishes.

The U.S. Meat Export Federation will promote this book across the region, offering support through seminars and

chef-training programs to encourage the exploration of traditional and innovative U.S. beef recipes.

3. Beef Nutrition Showcased at IRONMAN Event in Colombia

U.S. Meat Export Federation partnered with Colombian importers during an IRONMAN competition in Cartagena to promote the nutritional benefits and availability of high-quality U.S. beef.

With a focus on health-conscious athletes and families, the federation showcased U.S. beef’s versatility and superior taste, emphasizing its role in optimizing athletic performance. Through interactive demonstrations, medical insights and sampling opportunities, U.S. Meat Export Federation aimed to educate participants about the importance of incorporating protein-rich red meat into their diets.

4. Butcher Certification Program Broadens U.S. Red Meat Utilization in China

U.S. Meat Export Federation collaborated with FAN Culinary Education in Shanghai to certify 56 meat cutters in China as official U.S. red meat butchers.

FAN Culinary Education is endorsed by the World Association of Chefs’ Societies, and its founder, Clinton Zhu, is a celebrity chef with more than 20 years of experience in the red meat industry. This effort targeted professionals in the processing, retail and foodservice sectors, where they learned about the production practices and sustainability of the U.S. red meat industry.

Also, attendees participated in hands-on cutting demonstrations and discussions and learned about the culinary potential of underutilized cuts, such as the beef chuck roll and beef tri-tip.

Beyond Our Gates

5. Buyers from China to Korea Study Innovations in Prepared Food

As consumer demand for prepared foods expands in China, food processing companies want to expand operations to meet opportunities in this category.

With inflation and rising input costs complicating such plans, the federation has been working to show current buyers how U.S. beef can be utilized in prepared food products. Korea is considered a regional market leader in prepared foods, with category sales skyrocketing in recent years.

U.S. Meat Export Federation led a team of 10 buyers from China to Korea, teaching them about product innovations in ingredients, cooking techniques and production. The federation also led the team on a retail tour to demonstrate how prepared foods are merchandised and sold in Korea.

6. Training Programs Build Awareness and Demand for U.S. Red Meat in Indonesia

To expand awareness and grow demand for U.S. beef in Indonesia, U.S. Meat Export Federation conducted training seminars in Jakarta for importers, retailers and foodservice operators. A retail training session was conducted for 40 participants from upscale retail butcher outlets, and the first-ever foodservice training

session was conducted with an importer and several high-end foodservice operators.

The fundamentals of U.S. red meat production, the U.S. grading system and high-quality attributes of grainfed U.S. red meat were highlighted during the seminars, including cutting demonstrations and idea sharing about cut applications in regional cuisines. The foodservice seminar also featured a friendly cooking competition among 15 of the participants, using U.S. beef top blade.

7. Video Promotes U.S. Red Meat Sustainability in International Markets

Sustainability is of growing importance in international markets, and U.S. Meat Export Federation is working to promote the industry’s commitment to sustainability as a differentiator for U.S. red meat products.

The federation shares the U.S. sustainability message with international trade and consumers through educational and promotional activities, including advertising and social media. For that effort, U.S. Meat Export Federation created a video illustrating how U.S. producers’ commitment to the land they work and the animals they raise translates to delicious meals at the table around the world. T C Story courtesy of the Cattlemen’s

PARAMOUNT

Beef Promotion and Research Board.

THANK YOU

TO DONORS OF THE TSCRA DISASTER RELIEF FUND

The outpouring of support, including financial contributions from donors near and far, following historic wildfires in the Texas Panhandle and Western Oklahoma has been incredible.

Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association’s Disaster Relief Fund has received financial support from nearly 1,500 donors and counting. This remarkable response is already being put to work as ranchers, individuals and families continue on the road to recovery. Fences are being built, buildings replaced and spirits slowly lifted as a result of this generosity.

Whether sharing $5 or $100,000, we tip our hat in gratitude for all those who have supported the TSCRA Disaster Relief Fund.

VISIT TSCRA.ORG/DISASTER-RELIEF-FUND FOR MORE INFORMATION.

Donations received as of April 10.

THANK YOU, TSCRA DISASTER RELIEF FUND SUPPORTERS

4K Land & Cattle Co.

Emily Abernethy

April Abril

Sarah Ackerman

Cynthia Adams

William Adlet

AgDefense Risk Mgmt. LLP

April Ahrendsen

Alabama Cattlemen's Foundation

Roger Albert

Andy Alexander

Helen Alexander

Randall Alexander

Ryan Alexander

Catrina Allan

Berklie Allen

Elaine Allred

Alpha Zeta of Alpha Gamma Rho

Angelina Alvarez

Margaret Alvarez-Calderon

JP Alwais

Heidi Amorese

Kash Andersen

Angela Anderson

Glenn Anderson

Scott Anderson

Susie Anderson

Wade Anderson

William G. Anderson

Kathleen Andrews

Candy Ansley

Alexis Antkowiak

Karla and Joe Antkowiak

Alexis Arblaster

Arena Church

LaPriel Armijo

Shelley Armitage

David Armstrong

Weldon Armstrong

Emily Arnold

Luke Arnold

Arrowquip

Cydney Artaz

Courtney Artman

Angela Ashcroft

Ashland Community Foundation

Lewis Ashton III

Alberta Athearn

David Atkins

Jennifer Atzenhoffer

Martha Auriemma

Ginger Austin

Matthew Austin

Scott Averhoff

Anna Avery

Axiota

Laura Bailey

Ellie Bailiff

Jack Bain

Gerald Baj

Katie Baker

Bonnie Baker-Goodwin

Kimberley Ball

Nita Bankston

Rita Janis Barbee

Deena K. Barber

Mary Barklund

Shalise Barnetche

Marla Barnett

Marcia C. Barnette

Syrie Barsness

Randy Barton

Brenda Barton

Loretta Basak

Mandi Bass

Jamie Baumgardner

Joe Baumgardner

Barbara Beach

Bear Creek Ranch

Brian Bearce

Lisa Beauprez

Justin Bedford

Ellen Bedingfield

Kent Beilharz

John Belknap

Dora Bell

Jeanine Bell

Jim Bellinghausen

Andra Bennett

Myra Bennett

Erin Benton

Rob Benyshek

Sue Berend

GZ Bernal

Sharron Berryman

Bertini Farm

Katherine Bettis

William Bevers

Scott Bickford

Linda Bilger

Janie Bishop

Brenda Black

Bret Blackburn

Debra Blackburn

Pam Blalock

Robert Blocker

Adam Blythe

Boeing Charitable Trust

Jean Bohlender

Bohn Enterprises

Jason Boldt

Monika Bolz

Boot Barn

Erin Bordonaro

Mitch Borowski

Siva Borra

Lene Botha

Stephen Boudreaux

Regina Bouley

Jeffrey Bowen

Reagan Bownds

Justin Boyar

Mack Boyd

Mary Jayne O'Connell Boyd

Rick Boyd

Lynn Boydston

Paul Bracher

Bethany Bradford

Charlotte & Edward Bradford

Addison Bradley

Alison Bradley

Alexis Bradshaw

Brady & Hamilton LLP

Paul Branch

James Brandt

Kacie Brannan

Julie Brannen

Terri Brasher

George Brelsford

Deborah Briesmeister

Kirby Brincefield

Ted Brogden

Liz Bronson

Ben Brophy

Sheri Brosier

Diane Brostoski

Austin Brown III

Brandi Brown

Christine Brown

Coalson Brown

Diann Brown

Elizabeth Brown

Nancy Brown

Nathan Brown

Rachelle Bruce

Lindsey Bruner

Jane Bruning

Thomas Bruning

Merlyn Bruns

Mark Brunson

Pat & Wesley L. Bryan Jr.

Larry Bryant

Toni Bryant

Alicia Buescher

Norman Buescher

Kim Buffam

Charles Buffington

Kelly Bukowski

Hazel Bullock

Jordan Burchett

Caitlin Burdick

Alli Burenheide

Kendra Burgess

Cecelia Burke

Laura Burke

Michael Burkenbine

Zack Burkett

Linda Burkow

Mark Burnight

Allen Burns

Roderick Burns

Cherish Burnside

Tametia Bush

Camryn Bussell

Jerry Butlet

Gaylon Buxkemper

Brandi Buzzard

Luanne Byars

Terry Byars

Mervin Byler

Gregg Bynum

Cactus Sue Designs

Stephen Cake

Pamela Calabrese

Maren Caldwell

Caldwell Livestock Commission Co.

Caldwell Trust

Christopher Calhoun

John Cameron

Julia Campbell

Robert Campbell

Eileen Canavan

Elizabeth Canda

Michael Canipe

Capital Farm Credit

John Cappleman

Cargill Inc.

Phyllis Carlisle

Royal Carlson

Craig Carr

Carol Carter

Steven Carthel

Amy Casey

Joshua Casey

Reid Cashdollar

Lawrence Cashen

Cruz Castorena

Helen D. Cates

Kimberly Cathro

Dana Cavalea

Lois & JR Cave

Anissa Cervera

Jessica Cervera

Daniel Chapa

Ashley Chapeta

Diane Chastain

Eric Chasteen

Tommy Chatlosh

Lisa & Cody Chenault

Susan Chiarello

Sarah Childress

Citizens State Bank

Gregory Clanton

David Clark

Jared Clark

David Clarke

Loretta Clarke

Linda Clay

Cleveland County Cattlemen's Assoc.

Harriet Coalter

CoBank

Tyrus Cobb

Ada Coffman

Matthew Coffman

Rebecca Cogburn

The Cold Cactus Boutique

Coleman Livestock Auction

Kendall Coley

Reba Colin

Cometti Ranch & Rodeo Livestock

William Compton

Diana Condra

Jennifer Connell

Bradley Cook

Jeanie Cook

G. Trigg Copenhaver

Alex Coronel

Larry Counts

David C. Courtney

Cow Camp Inc.

Eric Cowan

Robert M. Cowden

Barbi Cox

James Cox

Jerry Cox

Crane Noon Lions Club

Pat Crawford

Terry Crofoot

Deborah Cron

Kevin Crooks

Bud Cross

Cross Texas Transmission Inc.

David Crow

Matthew Crow

Rebecca Crow

Vivian Culbertson

Steven Cullman

Culpepper Cattle Co.

Nicholas Cumming

Justin Cundiff

Matthew Curtis

Jennifer Curtiss

Virginia Cusimano

Raine Cutler

D&D Beef

John Dailey

Brittany Daley

Dammit Gus Productions

James Dangelmayr

Kendall Daniels

Karen Darby

Frank Darden

Kathleen Daugherty

Dauphen C. Jackson Cattle Co.

Diane Davis

Tatum Davis

Trevor Davis

Katy Davison

James Day

Julia Dean

Jessica Deardorf

Kim Dees

Rachel Degmetich

Cindy DeHoff

Stefanie Dekranes

Wendy Denny

Elizabeth J. Derrick

Erika Deschane-Hockensmith

West Desperado

Catherine Detering

Gina DeVivo

David DeWall

Diamond A Ranch Inc.

Diamond B Feedyard

Diamond H Cattle Co.

Jennifer Diaz

Jennifer & Stephen Diebel

Svend Dieffenbach

Brooks Diesel

William F. Dingus

Dawn Ditzenberger

Andrew Dodson

Phyllis Dodson

Barry Doering

Thomas Dollar

Todd Domer

Don Neal Family LP

DeAnna Donahue

Heather Donley

James L. Donnell Jr.

Joan Donnelly

McKenna Dosier

Virginia Dotin

Lori Douglas

Amy Doverspike

Aubry Downe

Barbara Downey

Bridgit Downing

Ruthie Doyle

Kathryn Anne Drach

Willard Draper

Amy Draznin

Ford Drummond

John E. Dudley

Richard Dudley

Ben Duke III

Christopher Dunbar

Marvin Dunlap

Bruce Dunn

Raymond Dunning Jr.

Brent Durham

Preya Durjan-Gangadeen

Mark Durso

Erik Dybesland

David Dye

Gabriela Dye

Stephen Dye

Kathy Dykstra

Robert Eardley

Jeff Earles

Clint Easley

Cody Eastman

Eatinger Cattle Company Inc.

Eatinger Lands Ltd.

Curtis Eaton

Sheri Eaton

Daniel Eber

Pake Ebert

Brenda Echols

Robert Edington

Aaron Edwards

Julia Edwards

Randal Edwards

Mr. & Mrs. Galen Eggers

Jody Ehinger

Susan Ehlig

Madeleine Ehret

Lee Ehrler

Asa Ehrlich

Susan Elfers

Tracy Elkind

Amy Ellis

Meredith Ellis

Nancy Ellis

Taber Ellis

Mark Ellison

John Ellzey

Bernie Ely

F. Dwayne Emanis

Gladys & MIlton Engelmann

Ronald England

Anita English

Erin Ann Photography

Allen Ersch

Sharon Escue

Veronica Espinoza

Marc Etchart

Dayna Lee Etcheverry

Breanna Etl

Melinda & Joseph Eustace

Evan Evans

Jay Evans

Mark Evans

Evers Group LLC

F Troop Feeders Inc.

Reagan Fajkus

Jason Falk

Farm Credit Bank of Texas

William Farrar

Lee Farren

Elizabeth Favor

Lee J. Fazzino Jr.

Glen D. Feichtner

Mike Feils

Michelle Feis

Boglarka Fejer

Dawn & Gary Felger

Beth Ferguson

Tyrone Ferrel

Gary Finch

Maureen Finnegan

Firwood Farm Alpacas

Flag Ranch LLC

Daniel Flatley

Bailey Fletcher

Mary Fletcher

Florida Cattlemen's Foundation

Angela Flynn

Larson Folkerts

Ms. Terry Ford

Terry Stuart Forst

Adeline Fox

Ronson Fox

Twana Fox

M. Foxley

Nancy Frank

Sarah Franklin

Michael Freimuth

Trevor Freitas

Charlotte French

Lloyd French

Karen Freyer

Friona Industries

Jo Ann Frogue

Holly Frys

Courtney Fultz

Carolyn Gaither

Debra Gallacher

Alex Gallagher

Brett Gallagher

Dana Galloway

Victoria Gann

Cristen Garcia

Hector Garcia

Lina Garcia

Victor Garcia

Garrett Charitable Fund

Garrett Land & Cattle Co. LLC

Richard Garrison

Jodi Gaston

Colleen Geil

Julia Genereux

Peyton Genzer

Joyce George

Georgia Cattlemen's Foundation

Angie Gibson

Giddings Livestock

Thomas Gilbert

Louis Giliberti

BJ Gililland

Gary Gilpin

Jeremy Giovannetti

Kathryn Gips

Helen Glass

Joyce Glazier

Katherine Gleiser

Leisa Glick

Jacquelyn Glomb

Jewell Glover

Elisabeth Gnitka

Julie Goddard

Sandi Goggin

Billy Goldsmith

Tamar Good

Dean Goodnight

Gossetts Inc.

Curtis Goulding

John Mark Graber

Sarah Grafa

Fred Graff

Grandfalls Union Church

Robert Grant

Grant Co.

William Graves

James Gray

Patricia Gray

Walter Greeman

Edward Green

Laura Green

Tracy Green

J. Bradley Greenblum

William Greenwood

Milton Greeson

Jeff Gregson

Carolyn Gresser

Elizabeth Gribas

Cindy Griesel

Michelle Griffith

Susan Griffiths

April Grigg

Terri Grizzle

Mary Jane Groesch

Brenda Groves

Jerry Grund

Roberto Guerra

William Guerra

Adriana Guerrero

Steve Guerrero

Nancy Guilliom

Lauren Gulotta

Stephanie Gumm

Millicent Gunter

Terry Gupton

Briana Gutierrez

Mary Kay Gutknecht

Juan Jose Guzman

Jeanne & Philip Habeck

Eric Haga

Suzanne Hagino

Gabrielle Hakman

John Hall

Koel Hall

Mark Hallberg

Halo Darlin'

Lisa Halpin

Matthew Hamblin

Emory Hamilton

Caitlin Hanafee

Gregory Hanes

Randy Hankins

Kathryn Hanson

Misty Haren

Elizabeth Harlan

Karen Harp

Harral Livestock LLC

Margaret Harris

Martin Reese Harris Jr.

Sarah Harris

Valerie Harris

Mike Harrison

Taylor Harrison

Monica Harrower

Natalie Hartley

Agnes Hartman

Franny & Max Hartmann

Jerry Hauf

Stephanie Haugen

Robin Hauth

HB Family Foundation

Dorothy Healy

Paul Heard

Paul Hedrick

Todd Heins

Roy Heitschmidt

Graham Helburn

Katherine Hemphill

Edith Henderson

Helen Henderson

J. Curtis Henderson

Patricia Henderson

Clayton Henry

Madison Hepler

Judy Hepton

Julia Anne Herman

Michelle Hernandez

Sindia Silva Hernandez

Carl & Leslie Herrmann

John, Ruby & Jim Hertlein

Debra Hessman

Susan Hettleman

Hey Diddle Diddle

Sandra Hicks

Michael Higgins

Travis Higgins

High Choice Feeders

High Cotton Textiles

High Prairie United Methodist Church

Bruce Hildebrand

Kevin Hill

Marilyn Hill

Steven Hill

Wade Hill

Ken Hilliard

Trisha Hillman

Roy A. Hindes III

Hindes Eustace Ranches LP

Hinkson Angus Ranch

Kimberly Hinojosa

Kathleen Hipps

Janice Hisey

Dirk Hixon

Cameron Hoag

Jonathan Hobden

Betty Hodges

Christine Hoffmann

Bridget Hogan

Diana Hohmann

Bret Holbert

Arch Holden

James Hollerbach

Ashlee Hollis

Shari Holloway

Dawn Holman

Holt Farms

Sue Holt

Mackenzie Hoolihan

Casey Hoover

Charles Hord

Corry Hostetler

Donald Hothem

Jean Houck

Jerilyn & Dean Houghton

John Hovde

Pamela Fitzsimons Howard

Cheryl Hrbacek

Riley Hudson

Jessica Hudspeth

Brenda Huffman

Hughes Cattle Co.

Ashley Hughes

Neva Hughes

Linda Huie

J. Scott Humphrey

Layton Humphrey

Blaine Hunt

Todd Hunt

Rita Hunter

Jo Iden

IGT Global Solutions

Illustrated Educational Publications

Cole Immenhauser

Independence Wool

Alda Ingram

Teresa Ingram

Erica Irlbeck

Isa Beefmasters LLC

Tina Ishcomer

Sue Ivey

Elaine Ivy

J.D. Hudgins Inc.

Helen Jackson

Lorine Jackson

Haley Jacot

Brandy Jamerman

Kristen Jares

Downie Jason

Amy Jasper

Karen Jaynes

Ronald Jefferies

Chelsey Jensen

Elizabeth Jesurun

Forrest Jividen

JoAnna Robertson Photography LLC

Collette Jochim

Joe William Ross PC

Kay Joffrion

Christine Johnson

Christy Johnson

Dee Anne Johnson

Donna Johnson

Jeane Johnson

Kenneth Johnson

Kristy Johnson

Michael Johnson

N. Johnson

Shelley Johnson

Stephen Johnson

Todd Johnson

Cheryl Joines

Christopher Jones

Lindy Jones

William Jordan

Carrie Jorgensen

Claire Joyce

Frank G. Junfin

Marian Junkman

Amy Kaban

Hannah Kalchthaler

Murray Kalmin

Kansas Livestock Foundation

Kori Kappelmann

Danny Karnes

Kendall Karr

Lauren Kearns

Jacob Keating

James Kegans

Hailey Keidel

Ann Keller

Kelli Brown Photography

Shannon Kellner

Stepheny Kelso

James Kemp

Mauricia Kemp

James Kenton

Kentucky Cattlemen's Assoc.

David Kern

John Kessler

Kim Kibby

Murlene Kidd

Dana Kieschnick

Larry King

Jeri Kingery

Aubrey Kinley

Kirkland Feedyard

Jaela Kirkpatrick

Edward Kivlen

Cindy Kline

Jill Kline

Perry Kloesel

Mary Ann Kniebel

Ruth Ann & Donald Knight

John Kochan

Carissa Koenig

Denise Koenig

Michelle Kohn

Adeline Jane Koltz

Brandy Koppenhafer

Iris Korus

Kay Koster

James Kothmann

Nancy Kowalski

Jeanie Kramer

Natalie Krause

Heidi Krupka

Cathy Kubacak

Donna Kucera

Kyle Kucera

Kathy Kula

Collins Kuper

Lacee Kyle

Kyle Dykes & Associates LLC

L&C Ranch

Kathlynn La Breche

John Lacey

Lorelei Laffey

Polly & Kirk Laging

Kurt Landis

Krissy Landskroener

Robert Lane

Marcia Langer

Lariat Inc.

Elizabeth Larizza

Daniel Larson

Jenna Lawhorn

Selia Leader

Dylan League

David LeBas

Douglas Leber

Tyler Lebsock

Rosalind Crain LeCompte

Candace Leeman

Cindy Lehman

Jeff Lehman

Jennie Lehman

Angelina Lehnert

Garrett Leithoff

Elizabeth Lenhart

Lisa Lerner

Richard Leur

Roberta LeValley

Ross LeValley

Steve Leven

Candy Cohen Levy

James Lewis

Sam Lichenstein

Marla Liebelt

Pea Lien

Margaret Lilly

Lincoln County Cattlemen's Assoc.

Jody Lindemann

Burl Little

Mark Little

Christine Livengood

William Lloyd

Melissa Locke

Regina & Coleman Locke

Steven Lofaro

Chad Logan

William Longmire

Timothy Loonam

Hiram Lopez

Louisiana Cattlemen's Assoc.

William Lovelace

Laurie Lovell

Rebecca Lovett

Jeff Loyd

Amber K. Luedke CPA

Pamela Luedke

Laura Lukawecki

Stacey Lundeen

Sheryl Lunz

Cole Lutz

Paige Lyall

Richard Machen

Otto Mackey

Emily MacKinnon

Matthew Madar

John Madden

Victoria Maddock

Lynn Madsen

Amanda Maggiore

Tracy Mahaffey

Claudia & Ron Malaya

Chris Mann

Michele Mann

Laura Manzella

Kacie Marchant

Sheryl & Mark Marek

Philip Maria

Mary Martin

Miriam Martin

Sonya & Bruce Martin

Suann Martin

Carlos Martinez

Vitor Martinho

Ellie Mashburn

Kylie Masters

Ellen & Conrad Masterson

Taylor Mathews

Frederick Matthews

Sanford Mattson

Jeffrey Mauldin

Joyce Mauldin

Neah Maxwell

Melinda Mayes

Sandy Mazey

Wayne Mazur

William McCall

Jimmy McCord

William McCoy

Tim McCracken

Erica McCrary

Jeanne McCrea

Jordan McCullough

Codee McDaniel

Sarah McDaniel

Adrian, Ali & Stanley McDonald

Ashley Mcdonald

Mary McDonald

Cheyenne McEndaffer

Denise McGaha

John Carter McGehee

Michael McGrory

Bonnie McInnish

Ruth McIver

Donald McKenzie

Karla McKinney

Kevin McLaughlin

Corky McLelland

Bowman McMahon

Franklin McMahon

James McMath

Jeanne McPherson

Belinda McWilliam

Carol Meadows

Misty Meadows

D.C. & J.L. Means

MedVet Pharmaceuticals Lakeland

Vet Inc.

Kevin Meers

Carolyn Anne Melde

Jeraldyne Melendez

Alicia Melton

Jordyn Melton

Tony Mendoza

Mary Ann Menning

Emily Menno

Anna Merchen

Keith Merrill

Brock Merritt

Todd Metten

Adrian Metzger

Lauren Mew

Nancy Meyring

Pamela Michael

Jennifer Michaels

Gregory Midkiff

Midwest Feeders

Jay Miers

Mackenzie Mihelich

Alexandra Miller

Gregory Miller

Jack Miller

Max Miller

Nancy Miller

Paula Miller

Vicki & Frosty Miller

William Miller

Jo Ann Mills

JP Mills

Mark Mills

Lauren Mims

Dawna Minor

Lindsay Minter

Allan Mislivecek

Dianna Mitchell

RD Mitchell

Mod West Jewelry

Kristen Moisey

Cynthia Montano

Julia Montgomery

Linda Montgomery

Patrick Montgomery

Ryan Montgomery

Julie Moore

Laurie Moore

Mark Moore

Rodney Moore

Kristina van Moort

Eustolia Morales

Sandra Morales

David Moralez

Stephanie Moran

Chelsea Morgan

Donna & Les Morgan

Kaiden Morris

Kay & Mike Morris

Kristopher Morris

Matthew Morris

Heather Morrison

Tommy Morrison

Frank Morrow

Jeanene Morton

Rosemary Mosher

Charles Moster

Georjia Motta

Todd Motuelle

Linda Mouish

Kathleen Mueller

Jacquelyn Muennink

Britain Muhl

Jeri Mulder

Jane Mullaney

Aaron Mullen

Ann Mulroy

Abigail Mund

Sonny Bo Munns

Elisabeth Murphey

Jane Murphey

Austin Murphy

Clay Murray

Amy Musser

Amanda Myres

Jacqueline Naegle

Lori Naegle

Temple Naff

Nancy S. Muenzler Ranching LLC

Nora Nash

Deborah & David Neal

Janice Neikirk

Richard Nelinson

Sally Nelson

David Newsom

Sandra Newstadt

Gary Newton

Phuong Nguyen

Mattie Niebuhr

Galen Nippert

Chris Nitzsche

Enrique Niufeld

Nixon Livestock Comm.

John Noa

Gerald Nobles

Richard Noelcke

Zach Nordahl

Abbie Norkett

Denise Norman

North Dakota Stockmen's Foundation

North Star Ranch LLC

Hayley Novak

Kimberly Nowell

Nancy Nuche

Leslie Oakley

Morgan O’Connor

Nancy Okerman

Oklahoma Steel & Wire Co.

Deborah Okonski

Kira Olbert

Matthew Oldfather

Victoria O’Leary

Julie Olson

Samuel Olson

Steve Olson

Cecelia Oosterhuis

Douglas O’Rourke

Clayton Osburn

Benjamin Osgood

Kurt Osuch

Breanna Owens

P3 Agriculture

P41 Studios

Kelly Pachiano

Penny Page

Michelle Palmer

Sheri Palmer

George Panarello

Austin Pancamo

Denise Pape

Doyle Parks

Gil & Melissa Parks Foundation

Cindy Parsons

Adam Partain

Marcos Pasillas

Eleni Patitsas

Patriot Tactical Patches

Tayler Patterson

Debra Paulison

Robin Paxton

Frank Payne

Thomas Payton

Pecan Lawn & Landscaping

Melissa Pelham

John Pendleton

Nita & Ray Pennington

Lisa & Tom Perini

Rhona & Charles Perkins

James Perkins

Sherry & Jeffrey Perry

Teresa Personeni

Stanley Peters

Charles Petersen

Joan & Leslie Peterson

Sonya Petty

Jillian Pfeuffer

Jody Pfeuffer

Mr. & Mrs. Bill Pfluger

Douglas Pharr

Carol & John Philips

Annalisa Phipps

Phyllis Burchett Photo

Brian Pitchford

Shirley Pitts

Jenny & Darwin Pluhar

Kindra Plumb

Zachary Polencheck

Romy & Carl Ray Polk Jr.

Janet & Delbert Pollet

Maria Pomales

THANK YOU, TSCRA DISASTER RELIEF FUND SUPPORTERS

Linda Poole

Carrie Porter

Charles Porter

Destiny Porter

Postive Feed LTD

Christopher Powell

Julie Powell

Walt Powell

William Powell

Vicki Prentice

Jacquelyn Prestegaard

Michael Preston

Alyssa Prichard

Trent Prim

Donna Prima

Producers Cooperative Assoc.

Kathy Prusak

Julie Pruski

Angelina Puckett

John Pumphrey

Michael Puryear

Vicki Quinn-Williams

R & L Dollins Cattle LLC

R.A. Brown Ranch

J. Mark Raaf

Barbara Rabinowitz

Dennis Raesener

Tammy Ramirez

Javier Ramon III

Kirsten Ramsey-George

Bryan Rasmussen

James Bruce Ray

Shawna Ray

Mohsin Raza

Beverly Read

Paul Redner

Redrock Design

Connie Redwine

Grace McLain Reed

Ronald Reed

Connie Reese

Emily Reid

Michael Reina

Renaissance Charitable Foundation

Julia Reser

Maria Rey

Karen Reynolds

Leonard Reynolds

Sarah Reynolds

Kylie Ericka Rhoden

Brad Ribelin

Arleen Rice

Denni Rice

Nicholas Rice

Gwynne Richards

Donna Richardson

Elliot Richardson

Angela Richter

Clint Rickabaugh

Tracy Rinehart

Shellie Watkins Ritzman

Sofia Rizo

Rebecca Roades

Tom Roarick

Roberts Ranch LLC

Donald Roberts

Johnna Roberts

Karen Roberts

Kenneth Roberts

Natalie Roberts

Samantha Roberts

Gil P. Robertson

John David Robertson

Shawntell Robertson

Adam Robinson

Lori Robinson

Lynn Robinson

Rock Creek Ranch I LTD

Rockin W Cattle Co. LLC

Rocking Chair Cattle Corp.

Carol Rodgers

Kristen Rodricks

Vanessa Rodriguez

Sara Roe

Steven Roe

Mildred Roesch

Nancy & David Rogers

Fred Rogers

Patricia Rollins

Michael Rood

Suzanna Rose

Cami Roth

Rough Creek Enterprises

Sonya & Frank Royal

Christy Ruback

Kyle Ruf

John Runnells III

Barbara Russell

Ruth Russell

Shannon & Tim Rust

Susie Ruthardt

Burton Rutherford

Abigail Rux

Ken Ryan

Barbara Sagraves

Ella Sahli

Gloria Salazar

Britney Salmon

John A. Sample

Jessica Sanchez

Barbara Sanderson

Johnny Sargent

Lavina Sartwelle

Sartwelle Brahman Ranch Ltd.

Amber Sauceda

Fred Saunders

Karen Savaresse

Tyler Savely

Trudy Saylor

Scaling & Co. LLC

Douglas Schaffer

Joshua Schellenberger

Bernard Schey

Arnie Schlittenhart

Angela Schmitz

Brenda Schneemann

John Schneider Jr.

Karen Schneider

Victor Schneider

Kristy Schnidt

Colleen Schreiber

Emilie Schroder

Lindy & Roger Schroeder

Emily Schulz

Jon Schwartz

Rebecca Schwartz

Michael Scott

William Scott

Oakley Scronce

Ross Seger

John Self

Karrie Self

Senn Cattle Farm

Monica Seufer

Zachary Severson

Tennille Sevigny

Samuel Shafer II

Rachael Shaffett

Keith Shahan

Caroline Sharp

Rees Shattuck

Katie Shaw

Renee Shaw

Jennifer Sheffer

Shell USA Inc.

Judy Shelton

Rony Shelton

Juliet Sherman

Leanne Shipper

Cindy Shivy

Morgan Short

Shekhar Shrestha

William Sibley

Patricia & Steve Sikes

Silver Mane Jewelry Co.

Steven Simmons

Amy Simon

Kathy Simonton

Sandy Simpson

Robbin Sinclair

Richard Sitzer

Rtshineto Skiptert

Carole Slaton

Courtney Sleypen

Lanna Slough

Marianne Smelser

Nancy Smith

Bradford Smith

Burney Smith

Charylene Smith

Diann Smith

Douglas Smith

Eugene Smith

Jeff Smith

Jeffery Smith

Jeremy Smith

Kathrine Smith

Kristina Smith

Misty Smith

Randall Smith

Sue Ann Smith

Joan Smola

Elaine Snavely

Kathy Soder

Carla Sokol

Suzanne Sonnenberg

Kelsy Soricelli

South Texas Cattle Marketing

Southwest Agribusiness Consulting Inc.

Pamela Spadaro

Spear U Ranches LLC

Michael Specchio

Iris Spencer

Spiked S Ranch LLC

Todd Spitzer

James Sprinkle

Laura St. John

Madeline St. John

St. Peter Lutheran Church

Barry Stacy

Alice Stanley

Laurie Staude

Skyler Steed

Carl Steiger

Jonathan Stein

Hanna Stephens

Randy Stephens

Dennis Stepp

Megan Kozey Stetson

Jameson Stewart

Deborah Stiles

Joshua Stitt

Nancy Stober

Daphne Stockert

Leana Stoltenberg

Blake Stoltz

Brenda Stone

Cheri Stone

Harold Stough

William Stroh

Shana Strohn

Cassidy Strommen

Holly Stubbs

Derek Studebaker

Jessica Suggs

Vanessa Suker

Jeslyn Sullivan

Premnath Sunkara

Jon Sunthimer

Super Level Life

Alicia Surratt

Da Surratt

Donna & Larry Swanson

Jennifer Sweere

Tanya Swegler

Tim Swenson

Gary Swindell

Thomas Szymanski

Judi Tabb

Horace Joe Tabor III

Joe Takacs

Catherine Taylor

Kayleigh Taylor

Linda Taylor

Malinda Taylor

Marchelle Taylor

Michele Tedrick

Jack Tejcek

TELUS

Cynthia Tews

Texas Alliance of Land Brokers

Texas Cattle Feeders Assoc.

Texas Livestock Marketing

Assoc./National Finance

Credit Corp. of Texas

John Thacker

Hudson Thigpen

Cheju Thomas

Lena Thomas

Anita Thompson

Mr. & Mrs. IJ Thompson Jr.

Stephen Thornton

Tim Thrash

Rebekah Tibbets

Lorita Tipton

TND Family Foundation

Romney Todd

Janie Jill Tointon

Gregory Tom

Bonnie Toner

Joyce Toth

Rachel Tourville

Bryan Towers

Vicki Townson

Gwen Trammell

Juliane Tran

Twyla Tranfaglia

Sherry Travis

Donna Treyes

Suzanne Trigg

Christine Trimmer

Addie Trojanowski

Lynda Trout

Clinton Truax

Trubenbach Ranch Co. Inc.

Tita Tucker

Juliana Twedt

Deann Twibell

Karen Twisselman

Megan Tyler

Lara Tyree

Adelita Tyson

Arthur Uhl

Elisabeth Uhl

Johnny Ulmer

Kristin Urban

Dionicio Valdez II

Jeff Van Petten

Mr. & Mrs. John Vanderlaan

Kirstan Vanderpool

Jon Vanwey

Joel Vasquez

Kimm Vaughan

William Vaughn

Vilma Vazquez

Tom Veasman

Paul Venincasa

Kelly Verret

Cecelia Verta

Joe Vickers

Catherine Voirin

Charles Volkman

Sharon Voorhees

Gregory Vrieze

Anna Wagemaker

Elicia Waggener

Ben Waggoner

Laura Wagner

Matt Wagner

Troy Wagner

Mary Lou Walden

Caroline Waldrep

Ashley Waldron

Adron Walker

Hannah Walker

Lea Walker

Todd Walker

Clay Wallace

Gerard Walters

Robbi Walters

Ava Wampler

Kimberly Ward

Warren Ranch

Tim Way

Wayne County Community Foundation/Certified Angus Beef

Rural Relief Fund

Tamara Webb

Jerry Webster

David Weeks

Ruffin Weeks

Brianna Weiler

Pam Weimer

Ellen & Don Weinacht

John Welch

Susan Wellborn

DeLayne Wellen

West Texas Lavender Farm

Carolyn Wetmore

Maggie Wheat

Charles Wheaton

McKinnon White

William White

Michele Whittaker

Gill Wichi

Cindy Wiest

Wildlife Society Inc. - Tarleton

State University

Howard Willey

Carly Williams

Jimmy Williams

Morgan Williams

Rich Williams

Sharon Williams

Cheryl Williamson

Jennifer & David Willigrod

Charitable Fund

Sandra Willingmyre

Carolyn Wilson

Donna Wilson

Jay Wilson

Jodie Wilson

Kelli Wilson

Wayne Wilson

William Wilson

Adrien Winter

Christen Wise

Mari Kay Wisnoski

Jason Woelfel

Mary Wohlert

John Wojtowicz

Jerry Wolfe

Nancy Wood

Mary Woodard

Wynita Woodford

Russell Woodruff

Shannon Woodruff

Ought Works

Payton Worthy

Lauren Wottlin

Avery Claire Wrigglesworth

Dora Wright

Phillip Wright

Samantha Wright

William Wright

Lawrence Wujcikowski

Bart Wulff

Yakima County Cattlemen’s Assoc.

Jeffrey Yauger

Sunil Yeruva

Samuel Yocum

Kathleen Young

Rachel Young

Susan Young

Gina Zamora

Natalia Zarelli

Lee Zielke

Holly Zienka

Diana Zylicz

Director Spotlight

THE NEXT Chapter

TSCRA director embraces history and heritage, with eyes on what’s to come.

By Shelby Kirton

For Lloyd French, ranching is not just a livelihood — it is a sincere devotion to the land, cattle industry and Western lifestyle that runs deep in his blood.

“I’ve been ranching pretty much my whole life,” French says. “On my mom’s side, we’re fourth-generation ranchers, and on my dad’s side, we go back six generations.”

Growing up in the vast expanse of South Texas, French remembers recognizing the distinct blue signs of Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association members.

“Those blue signs were everywhere,” he recalls. “They always stood out to me, representing a way of life that I cherished.”

Over the course of his career, French has managed cattle operations in several different counties. He says he has learned a great deal and evolved over the course of time. Currently, French is president for the construction mining division at Waukesha – Pearce Industries LLC.

When he’s not actively engaged in overseeing operations at the family’s heavy equipment company, you’ll likely find him tending to one of their two family ranches: La Paloma Cattle Co and 4F Land & Cattle Co.

“Even when I’m at the corporate office in Houston, my mind is always on the ranch, and I stay in constant communication with our ranch manager,” French says. “It’s a commitment that occupies my thoughts around the clock.”

In 2020, French expanded his endeavors by purchasing 4F Land & Cattle Co., located southwest of Brenham, where he runs a commercial Brangus cow-calf operation.

He says he has found value in combining timehonored methods and modern-day technology. This includes CattleMax software, which allows him to monitor and track herd data more effectively.

Prior to adopting CattleMax, he relied on handwritten notebooks and Excel spreadsheets for inventory management, but found them lacking in detail.

After learning about CattleMax through his Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association membership benefits and engaging with the software at conventions, French made the decision to transition to this advanced system.

“CattleMax has transformed how I record and analyze data for my cattle herds,” French says. “It has enabled me to maintain more detailed and historical records for each cow, empowering me to make informed and strategic herd management decisions.”

While familiar with Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association since he was a young child, French invested in his own membership about seven years ago. He says the relationships he built in that time have been irreplaceable.

“I’m very thankful for the people I’ve met,” he says. “It’s probably one of the strongest organizations of likeminded people all on the same page.”

Over time, French deepened his engagement, assuming leadership roles within the association. He was asked to join the membership development committee in 2021, and two years later, was elected to the board of directors.

French currently sits on the membership development committee, board of trustees and Cattle Raisers PAC.

“Living and breathing ranching every day — it’s a dream come true,” he says. “I don’t know what I would do if it wasn’t in my life.”

French attributes his deep involvement and passion for the cattle industry to his grandfather, Louis M. Pearce Jr., “He is the one that exposed me to this industry at a young age and is the reason why I am involved in it today,” he says.

Outside of the cattle industry, French spends his free time raising bucking bulls for PRCA’s renowned rodeo company, Cervi Championship Rodeo, providing stock for rodeos like Houston, San Antonio and Denver. T C

Lloyd French and his uncle, Steve Pearce, who oversees La Paloma Cattle Co. Courtesy photo.

For more than half a century, TCU’s renowned Ranch Management program has given students an edge in agricultural resource success. This unique nine-month intensive program equips graduates with real-world strategies as producers and land stewards in changing times.

Space is limited. Visit ranch.tcu.edu or call 817-257-7145.

Thick muscled, good bone, with eye appeal and light birth weights.

Give us a call for all your Brahman needs.

We invite you to drop by the ranch and inspect these bulls at any time.

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, Engagement & 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

REACH YOUR GOALS THROUGH GRAZING MANAGEMENT PLANNING

Do you have goals to make your ranch more adaptable to changing conditions? Grazing management planning is a great way to boost your operation’s financial and environmental resilience.

As a cattle producer, you know your land, herd and natural resources better than anyone else. Use this module to see how you can continue to excel in your operation. Investing a few minutes today can save you significant time and resources in the future.

Scan the QR code to see the USRSB Grazing Management Plan Development Module

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

3D Cattle

Lubbock

3F Ranch

Leonard

4G Farms Paris

7UP Cattle Co. Frost

Alissa Achenbach Bokchito, Oklahoma

AJH Angus Silverton

Sonny Allen Dripping Springs

Louis Arceneaux Raywood

Dylan Archer San Antonio

Eion Bailey Bryan

Greg Baldock Nacogdoches

Ricky Bauman Llano

Bell Ranch Mount Pleasant

Bennie York Ranches LLC Stockdale

Christopher Best Flower Mound

BG&R Farms Round Top

Bindseil Hay & Cattle Floresville, Kansas

Anthony Blacksher Nacogdoches

Paul H. Broyles Cherokee

Bella Burt Sylvania, Georgia

Campo Serenidad Amarillo

Carr Ranch Goldthwaite

Lillian Clay Refugio

Comanche Bend Ranch Fredericksburg

Laura Cooper Paris

Presley Corbin Sanger

Stockton Cranek Canton

Crumrine Farms LLC Danbury

Logan Decker Stephenville

Dry Gulch Ranch Hudson Oaks

Samantha Duncan Hudson Oaks

Dwayne Easley Huntsville

Carrie Edwards Cleburne

Garrett Edwards Rosebud

Eggen-White Farm Clifton

Elmore Ranch Novice

Cassie Ferguson-DeLeon Buffalo

First Federal Community Bank, SSB Paris

Flying S Ranch

Victoria

Jeff Fulgham Brownsboro

Jimmie & Dianne Gates Cypress

Marc Green Henderson

Gentry Greiner Cuero

H3 Cattle & Feeders LLC Bonham

Halbert Haven Farms Fort Worth

Wyatt Hansen Houston Heard Farms Henrietta

Tyler Helbing Dripping Springs

Ronald Henderson Clifton

Herley-Circle N La Vernia

Hernandez Cattle Lampasas

Highnoon, Gary Cooper Mexia

Hoffman Lazy J Beefmaster Canton

Hollywood Cattle Ennis

Homestead Hill

Rockwall

Taylor Hood Spring

J Bell Ranch

Archer City

Rafe Jackson Gonzales

Jared Lesh Cowhorses Whitesboro

Jelke Myers Wagner Holdings LLC Cypress

Jensen Ranch Hamilton County

Jim Ratjen Farms Alvarado

Parker Johnston Victoria

Todd Jones Ozona

Loni Jones Gatesville

Joyner Farm Avery

Deloris Kraft-Longoria New Braunfels

Kultgen Ranch Dike

L 5 Cattle Decatur

Laguna Gulf Corpus Christi

James Lambert Headrick, Oklahoma

Robert Lansford Weatherford

Allen Laughlin Dayton

Liberty Hill Cattle Co. Bullard

Lighthouse Defense Group Cuero

James F. Lindsey Carrollton

Lochte Ranch

Fredericksburg

Longhorn 6603 LLC

Fort Worth

The Lucky M Ranch

Cedar Park

Maddox Ranch Jacksboro

Tyler Martin

Graham

Alejandro Martinez

Arp

CL Matheny Fort Worth

Steve McSpadden Quanah

Melody Acres Ranch LLC Crockett

Menn Farms Round Rock

Richard Meyer Bryan

Ashley Miles

Missouri City

Miller Ranch

Houston

Tracy Moses Throckmorton

Moss 7M Ranch Carthage

Olmos Family Liberty

Layna Ottmers Fredericksburg

Kyra Parker Kilgore

Gerald Payton Borger

New Members

Madison Perry

Madisonville

James & Barbara Peterson

Floresville

Shane Phifer

Paris

Thomas Pier

Houston

Brody Purswell

Stinnett

Pyle Farm Elmore City, Oklahoma

Beckham Ragan

Sunset

Emma Ragan

Sunset

Regenerative Backyards

Sugar Land

Betty Renfro Belton

Kimberly Reyna El Campo

Rio Rojo Cattle Co.

Wichita Falls

Carrie Rizley Claremore, Oklahoma

Jim Rogers Aledo

Sydney Routon

San Angelo

Susan Sams

Austin

SandSwept Ranch College Station

Brock Sartwelle

Campbellton

Abigail Shannon

Victoria

New Members

Slash Z Land & Cattle Levelland

Steven Smith Burleson

Tim Sohns

Moody

Sometimes Creek Ranch Bangs

Brad Spence Ennis

Doyle Spencer Montgomery

Charles Spinks Yantis

Wylie Cole Stojanik Lott

Stanfield Livestock Chico

Karen Stoner-Clifton

Gordon

T Anchor Ranch

Medina

T&V Ranch

Llano

TEB Land & Cattle Lp. Cisco

Brent Thornton

Florence

Tilton Land & Cattle Cleburne

Sara Tolvanen San Antonio

Tracy Ranch

Memphis

Trans Pecos Ranch Fort Stockton

Triple 12 Operating Company LLC Odem

Triple A Ranchs Terrell

Tumbling AV Cattle Co.

Sherman

Megan Turnipseed Georgetown

Robert Wetmore

Austin Whitley Cattle Co. Breckenridge

Brennan Williams Decatur

Jarrett Worrell Mason

TO MAKE A LIVING THERE ARE EASIER WAYS

But you wouldn’ t trade ranching for anything. It’s about upholding traditions and growing our beef-loving community. While you keep moving forward, you can count on the Texas Beef Council to bring more Texans to the table by engaging consumers, health influencers, and more.

Efforts like these are just a few ways we’re working to keep beef in its strongest state:

300+ 300+ APPROX. MEDICAL OFFICES REACHED EVERY MONTH WITH THE LATEST BEEF NUTRITION RESEARCH 500 500 ULTIMATE

HIGH SCHOOL ATHLETIC PROGRAMS PROVIDED WITH A BEEF-FOCUSED SPORTS NUTRITION PROGRAM

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: Kaylee Malatek, 979-942-0323

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

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: Mallory Steen, 903-390-0594

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: TBA

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: Caleb Walker, 936-330-6102

PANOLA

Panola Livestock

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 Co.

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

KEEP GROWING

Give nature a boost this summer with Ragland’s vitamin and mineral supplements. Available in bags and blocks, our highly palatable and nutritious feed supplements are ideal for filling in gaps left by failing summer forage.

• BREEDER MAX 8% PHOSPHORUS MINERAL

DID YOU KNOW?

Thanks to our specially engineered Raingard TM formula, Ragland products are known for superior moisture resistance— minimal clumping, sustained palatability, and less waste.

Encourages proper cycling, high conception rates and strong milk production in breeding stock.

• RAGLAND® BLOCK ’EM WITH CLARIFLY®

Convenient block prevents reproduction of 4 common flies in manure of treated cattle and horses. With GARLIC.

• ULTRA FLY WARRIOR WITH ALTOSID

Prevents adult horn fly emergence from manure, with 4% Phosphorus and other minerals.

• FLY BLOCKS WITH RABON

Trusted for generations, our blocks deliver safe, effective fly otection for beef attle, dairy herds, and horses on pasture.

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

806-255-8873

Tr

903-530-8551 wtnca@aol.com

SATTERFIELD RANCH

Ashland, KS 67831 • (620) 635-2156 Mark • Greg • GAR@GardinerAngus.com ww w Gardiner Angus

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 Curtiss Nipp 580.513.3555

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

.T . E chols

MARK YOUR CALENDAR

JUNE

MONDAY, JUNE 3 –

THURSDAY, JUNE 6

Texas 4-H Round Up Where: College Station

THURSDAY, JUNE 6 –

SATURDAY, JUNE 8

High Plains Ranchers & Breeders Assoc.: Horse Sale & Ranch Horse Futurity Where: Amarillo National Center

TUESDAY, JUNE 11

TSCRA Ranch Gathering Where: George West When: 5:30 p.m.

TUESDAY, JUNE 18

Ranching 101: Direct-to-Consumer Beef Sales Where: Online When: 1 p.m.

FRIDAY, JUNE 21 –SUNDAY, JUNE 23

TSCRA Summer Meeting Where: Hyatt Regency Hill Country, San Antonio

JULY

MONDAY, JULY 8 –

WEDNESDAY, JULY 10

NCBA Summer Business Meeting Where: San Diego, California

WEDNESDAY, JULY 10 –

SUNDAY, JULY 14

Texas FFA Convention Where: Houston

THURSDAY, JULY 11

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

SUNDAY, JULY 14 –

THURSDAY, JULY 18

Texas County Ag. Agents Assoc. Meeting Where: Dallas

TUESDAY, JULY 16

Ranching 101: Actions Affecting Calf Prices Where: Online When: 1 p.m.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 17 –

SUNDAY, JULY 21

43rd Texas Ranch Roundup Where: Wichita Falls

SATURDAY, JULY 27

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

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. 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.

SEPTEMBER

WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 4

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

THURSDAY, SEPT. 12

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

TUESDAY, SEPT. 17

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

WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 18

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

MONDAY, SEPT. 23

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

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

Texas Agricultural Land Trust Working Lands Innovation Summit Where: Henrietta

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.

JUNE

1924

Texas native Roy Sansom was pictured on the century-old cover of The Cattleman seated on a steer named Rare Meat.

Living in Kansas City, Missouri, at the time, Sansom said the steer was raised by a Swiss family near Abilene, Kansas, and shipped to Kansas City Nov. 23, 1923, by W.C. Colvin.

Rare Meat was broke to ride by school children, who drove him three times to school for two terms — and made two garden crops with him. The story told that the steer eventually wound up in the Swift packing plant for 9-cents per pound. T C