April 2022 Cattlemen's News

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ON THE BLOCK with Jackie Moore About the time we think Spring is here, it’s gone again! This crazy weather is struggling to warm up and stay that way so the grass will start to grow. It’s definitely later than normal. We have had some good moisture, and that contributes to the prospect of having a good spring and summer which we can all look forward to.

That ole market is a rockin’ on all these calves and yearlings.

It has sure gotten better, and I’m thinking it will stay pretty good especially on those cattle that we are sending to graze.

Some of these new crop calves are selling just like the old crops but that will change as soon as we get the grass guys out of the picture. They are pushing and shoving trying to get enough cattle to stock their pastures, and in another two or three weeks those new crop calves could get a little cheaper. If you are thinking about selling yours any time between now and June, it might not be a bad time to sell some of them.

The Cattle on Feed report we had last week showed we still have a lot of cattle on feed.

That’s probably because it’s been so dry in the wheat country.

There just hasn’t been much wheat pasture, and they moved

those cattle early and we have a record number of them on feed.

As we go through the summer, the Fat Cattle Market is going to struggle more than we would like to see. We all have been thinking that after we got into spring and head into summer that these numbers would become short but not the Fat Cattle segment of this industry. It is not going to get short because we have plenty of them on feed.

There is a lot of optimism out there and it is sure keeping this thing good. At some point when we roll around here we know we have less cattle. It’s just going to take a little time to work through the cattle we have on feed.

When you look at those futures markets out there into summer and fall those feeder cattle futures are in the $1.80 range. It makes these calves worth a lot of money. It’s sure going to cost something to keep them around with $1,000 fertilizer and $7.50 corn. There is some opportunity but it won’t be easy.

We have winter behind us and spring is here which is always a good thing. We’ll have some grass growing, and that means some cheap gains!

Good luck and God bless,

Jackie

Bailey Moore: Granby, MO

M (417) 540-4343

Skyler Moore: Mount Vernon, MO M (417) 737-2615

FIELD REPRESENTATIVES ARKANSAS

Jimmie Brown M (501) 627-2493 Dolf Marrs: Hindsville, AR H (479) 789-2798, M (479) 790-2697 Billy Ray Mainer: Branch, AR M (479) 518-6931 *Cattle Receiving Station Jr. Smith: Melbourne, Arkansas M (870) 373-1150 *Cattle Receiving Stations 1768 AR 69B Highway, Sage, AR 72573 3479 Bexar Raod, Salem, AR 72576 Kent Swinney: Gentry, AR M (479) 524-7024

KANSAS

Pat Farrell (Video Rep): Ft. Scott, KS M (417) 850-1652 Chris Martin (Video Rep): Alma, KS M (785) 499-3011 Alice Myrick: Mapleton, KS M (620) 363-0740 Bob Shanks: Columbus, KS H (620) 674-3259, M (620) 674-1675

LOUISIANA

James Kennedy: DeRidder, LA M (337) 274-7406 *Cattle Receiving Station

OKLAHOMA

Jim Hacker: Bolivar, MO H (417) 326-2905, M (417) 328-8905 Bruce Hall: Mount Vernon, MO M (417) 466-5170 Mark Harmon: Mount Vernon, MO M (417) 316-0101 Bryon Haskins: Lamar, MO M (417) 850-4382 J.W. Henson: Conway, MO H (417) 589-2586, M (417) 343-9488 *Cattle Receiving Station Matt Hegwer: Video Rep Carthage, MO M (417) 793-2540 Larry Jackson: Carthage, MO M (417) 850-3492 Jim Jones: Crane, MO H (417) 723-8856, M (417) 844-9225 Kelly Kissire: Anderson, MO H (417) 845-3777, M (417) 437-7622 Larry Mallory: Miller, MO H (417) 452-2660, M (417) 461-2275 Colby Matthews: Taneyville, MO M (417) 545-1537 Kenny Ogden: Lockwood, MO H (417) 537-4777, M (417) 466-8176 Jason Pendleton: Stotts City, MO M (417) 437-4552

Mark Murray: Westville, OK M (918) 930-0086

Charlie Prough: El Dorado Springs, MO H (417) 876-4189, M (417) 876-7765

Chester Palmer: Miami, OK H (918) 542-6801, M (918) 540-4929 *Cattle Receiving Station

Dennis Raucher: Mount Vernon, MO M (417) 316-0023

Nathan Ponder: Afton, OK M (636) 295-7839 Troy Yoder: Chouteau, OK M (918) 640-8219

MISSOURI

Rick Aspegren: Mountain Grove, MO M (417) 547-2098 Jared Beaird: Ellsinore, MO M (573) 776-4712 *Cattle Receiving Station Klay Beisly: Nevada, MO M (417) 321-2170 Sherman Brown: Marionville, MO H (417) 723-0245, M (417) 693-1701 Joel Chaffin: Ozark, MO H (417) 299-4727 Rick Chaffin: Ozark, MO H (417) 485-7055, M (417) 849-1230 Jack Chastain: Bois D’Arc, MO H (417) 751-9580, M (417) 849-5748 Ted Dahlstrom, DVM: Staff Vet Stockyards (417) 548-3074; O (417) 235-4088 Tim Durman: Seneca, MO H (417) 776-2906, M (417) 438-3541 Jerome Falls: Sarcoxie, MO H (417) 548-2233, M (417) 793-5752 Nick Flannigan: Fair Grove, MO M (417) 316-0048 Kenneth & Mary Ann Friese: Friedheim, MO H (573) 788-2143, M (573) 225-7932 *Cattle Receiving Station Fred Gates: M (417) 437-5055 Brent Gundy: Walker, MO H (417) 465-2246, M (417) 321-0958

Cotton Reed: Exeter, MO M (417) 342-5373 Russ Ritchart: Jasper, MO M (417) 483-3295 Lonnie Robertson: Galena, MO M (417) 844-1138 Justin Ruddick: Southwest City, MO M (417) 737-2270 Alvie Sartin: Seymour, MO M (417) 840-3272 *Cattle Receiving Station Jim Schiltz: Lamar, MO H (417) 884-5229, M (417) 850-7850 Cash Skiles: Purdy, MO M (417) 669-4629 David Stump: Jasper, MO H (417) 537-4358, M (417) 434-5420 Matt Sukovaty: Bolivar, MO H (417) 326-4618, M (417) 399-3600 Mike Theurer: Lockwood, MO H (417) 232-4358, M (417) 827-3117 Tim Varner: Washburn, MO H (417) 826-5645, M (417) 847-7831 Brandon Woody: Walnut Grove, MO M (417) 827-4698 Misti Primm and Cindy Thompson: Office (417) 548-2333 Video Cattle Production: Matt Oehlschlager and Clay Eldridge (417) 548-2333

Dave Donica: Yard Manager 417-316-3031

TEXAS

Trent Uptmore: West Texas M (254) 709-5247

April 2022

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INSIDE THIS ISSUE Animal Health, Reproduction and Marketing

IN EVERY ISSUE

CONTACT US OUR MISSION Publisher/Advertising: Mark Harmon Phone: 417-548-2333 Mobile: 417-316-0101 markh@joplinstockyards.com

Editor/Design/Layout: Jocelyn Washam Cassie Dorran Rural Route Creations CN@joplinstockyards.com

AD DEADLINES *2nd Monday of each month for next month’s issue. Print deadlines, ad sizes and pricing can be found in the 2022 print media guide. www.joplinstockyards.com

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April 2022

Cattlemen’s News, published by Joplin Regional Stockyards, was established in 1998. With 10,000 customers and 450,000 plus cattle sold per year, this publication is an excellent advertising avenue for reaching customers from across the region. The publication puts today’s producers in touch with the tools and information needed to be more efficient and profitable for tomorrow. Circulation 10,000.

Although we strive to maintain the highest journalistic ethics, Joplin Regional Stockyards limits its responsibilities for any errors, inaccuracies or misprints in advertisements or editorial copy.

Advertisers and advertising agencies assume liability for all content of advertisements printed, and also assume responsibility for any claims arising from such advertisement made against the Stockyards and/or its publication.

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View from the Block Data Driven Decisions Network Know-How Billy Mainer Prime Time Livestock Video Rep Listing

Industry News 8 I Keep the Faith 10-11 I Robert “Bob” E. Foote 14 I Consumers Facing Higher Prices Across the Board 18 I Spring Show-Me-Select Replacement Heifer Sales 40 I Southwest Research, Extension & Education Center Update 42 I Show-Me Select Preview Management Matters 16-17 I High-Quality Nutrition for Your Cowherd Year Around 30 I Separating Sire Selection for Maternal and Terminal Traits 32-33 I Livestock as Live Stock 34 I Minerals Matter to Optimize Herd Performance 36 I Cattle De-Worming Issues and Solutions 43 I Marketing Fall Born Calves Trending Now 7 I All Natural, NHTC, and Antibiotic-free Programs 20 I The Power of Positive Thinking 22 I Cattle Market Optimism 26 I The Four Cs of Sharing on Social Media 28-29 I Sire Selection Tools for Breeding More Productive/ Profitable Cows 38 I Letting Our Lights Shine Other Information 24 I JRS Value-Added Sale Information

Lost

45 Years of

Crossbreeding Cross breeding

CAT T LE CO.

Producer

Highest Total Relative Value ever recorded by IGS Feeder Profit Calculators for calves of this weight.

James Beck 1639 Pine Drive Grove, OK, USA 74344

918-786-6944 jimandsara@hotmail.com

Feeder Calf Info 69150 E. 128 Rd. Horned/Polled: Polled Wyandotte, OK, USA Color: Mostly Smokes, few yellows, 5 blacks 74370 Sex: Steer Head: 43 Avg. weight: 1025 Delivery date: 06/01/2018 Weight range: 900-1100 lbs Born 02/25/2017 to 05/20/2017 Weaned: 11/06/2017 USDA Process Verification NA Breed Composition: Angus: 50.29% Charolais: 40% Simmental: 9.71%

Total Relative Value

Treatment History Vaccination 05/24/2017 . . . . . . . . Nasalgen, Virashield 6+L5 HB, Vision 8, Pinkeye Shield XT4 Vaccination 10/08/2017 . . . . . . . . Vision 8, Virashield 6+L5 HB, Nuplura PH Booster 03/14/2018 . . . . . . . . . . . Titanium 5, Pinkeye Shield XT4 Deworming 10/08/2017 . . . . . . . . Ivermectin Deworming 03/14/2018 . . . . . . . . Ivermectin Implant 05/24/2017 . . . . . . . . . . . Synovex C

$6.16/cwt

Relative Management Value Relative Genetic Value

$2.58/cwt $3.59/cwt

Relative Genetic Value: Predicted difference in value due to genetics between the calves being evaluated and the average Angus calves of the same sex, starting weight and management conditions.

Relative Management Value: Predicted difference in value due to management between the calves being evaluated and those same calves under the assumption of an industry average 60% BRD vaccinated and 60% weaned for 30 days or greater Total Relative Value: A combination of Relative Genetic Value and Relative Management Value.

Quality Grade

★★★★☆

Yield Grade

★★☆☆☆

Avg. Daily Gain

Carcass Weight

★★★☆☆

Feed Conversion

★★★★★

★★★★★

Certification Date 03/15/2018 No. 120

The projections, values, and other calculations produced by Feeder Profit Calculator™ are based on user inputs. IGS does not independently verify the information provided by users. The mathematical models and assumptions related to market conditions utilized in Feeder Profit Calculator™ may change significantly. IGS makes no representation that any Feeder Profit Calculator™ projection will be realized and actual results may vary significantly from Feeder Profit Calculator™ projections. The relative market values produced by Feeder Profit Calculator™ represent a relative valuation for comparison purposes only and do not represent an actual market value.

LOST CREEK CATTLE CO.

WYANDOTTE, OK Jim Beck, Owner 918-801-3649 jimandsara@hotmail.com Shannon Meador, Ranch Foreman | 417-456-2104

SOLD

Spring Calving Heifers available after Nov. 1.

Fall Calving Heifers available after May 1.

“CROSSBREEDING IS THE ONLY WAY I KNOW THAT YOU CAN GET SOMETHING FOR NOTHING AND IT IS CALLED HETEROSIS OR HYBRID VIGOR.”

DATA DRIVEN DECISIONS

Advancing Genetic Improvement

By Justin Sexten for Cattlemen’s News Walking through the meat case today it’s not difficult to get an idea where the future of cattle production is headed. If we study current market claims of dairy, pork or poultry there are few if any claims focused on adding anything to the current products. In most cases the premium products are free of something: cages, hormones, additives, and antibiotics to name a few.

Because most current protein claims are marketing focused, readers might suggest I’m confusing the future of beef marketing with cattle production. Whether you look at other proteins or beef it is consumer demand for end-product claims that are driving production decisions. Consumer preferences lead marketers to build premium product categories and brands focused on satisfying these consumer demands. Agreement on where the industry is going is not my focus, rather looking at the rapidly advancing technology that will help us get there.

When we consider the consumer driven change toward a freefrom marketing model it’s worth reflecting on current food preferences and the potential for unintended consequences.

Technology removal from livestock production adds production inefficiencies associated with reduced growth rates and/ or less desirable feed conversion. So while satisfying the freefrom consumer at one level, we make a tradeoff where the sustainability focused customer is less satisfied.

The modern consumer continues to expand beyond the grocery shopper. As we incorporate multiple aspects of the supply chain, understanding consumer demands is getting increasingly complex. Today corporate entities are looking to satisfy carbon and sustainability claims and will expect technology to assist in meeting these claims in the next 10, 20, or 30 years depending on the target. The details around how these targets can be obtained, again, we look at pork, poultry, and dairy.

As you think about how your favorite protein has changed over time, first consider what drove this transition. Has the animal naturally evolved to adapt to modern farming methods or a changing production environment?

Given our relatively short time frame in food history, I suspect there are few if any changes in domestic livestock production due exclusively to Darwinian evolution or natural selection.

As free-from marketing evolved, commercial poultry, swine and dairy operations 6

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have increasingly shifted focus toward genetic improvement.

Adopting genetic improvement is one of the most consumer friendly technologies to improve product quality and production efficiencies.

Each species took a slightly different approach toward balancing production efficiency while maintaining or enhancing end-product quality and uniformity. In some cases improving genetic production efficiency at the expense of the product, causing a breeding program course correction to improve end-product quality.

If we expand the consideration beyond animal proteins to row crops, a simple conclusion is apparent – genetic selection is the best tool to make improvements in productivity. Imagine planting an undocumented corn variety with no stacked traits, herbicide synergies or environmental adaptability. Varieties are increasingly tailored to regional environments adapting to drought or cold tolerance. None of these improvements are left to random evolution, each considered from a production, efficiency and marketing perspective.

Row crops also provide a reminder that regionality is manageable. It is not uncommon to encounter genetic improvement naysayers who suggest selection should be limited to regional cattle offerings because cattle are unlike any other livestock species due to dynamic environments. Micro climates exist across the U.S. yet corn and soybean hybrids are developed using diverse genetics from across the globe with those regional issues in mind.

The advancements in genetic improvement tools are reminiscent of the evolution of computers. I started making pictures one pixel at a time using a Tandy 1000 in Junior High. Today, I carry the equivalent of a pocket sized computational Swiss Army knife of a computer, camera, flashlight, and phone in one device. Similarly I played the cow game with the singular goal to improve yearling weight using the new EPD’s enabling single trait selection. Now I can use genomics to know the long-term genetic potential of a replacement heifer within weeks of her birth.

Genetic tools in the beef industry took another significant leap in March. The FDA approved the sale of beef from gene-edited cattle carrying genetics resulting in short slick hair. This approval was the first case where edited animals were approved using a “low-risk determination” due to the similarity of existing natural genetics.

The approved technology paves the way for additional considerations of other free-from consumer and production interests. Consider the free-from market claims for animals bred to resist disease or adapt to adverse environments. Alternatively enhance breed characteristics like marbling or eliminate others like horns. In an age where increased productivity is the goal and the technology tools available to make change may be limited by consumer preference, I’m long on the tools focused on genetic improvement.

Justin Sexten is the Head of Industry and Network Partnerships Precision Animal Health at Zoetis.

TRENDING NOW

All Natural, NHTC, and Antibiotic-free Programs: Do they fit for you?

By Rebecca Mettler for Cattlemen’s News Premium payouts for all natural, antibiotic-free, or non-hormone treated cattle (NHTC) programs may look enticing, but it takes a precision livestock management mindset to make it to the finish line. Producers must educate themselves on the differences in cattle management, program certification, premium expectations, and marketing options associated with these programs.

What do program premiums look like?

Fed cattle carcass premiums for all natural and NHTC programs have stayed relatively constant over the last several years, which can be helpful to producers as they develop marketing strategies for their operations, according to Scott Brown, livestock economist with University of Missouri.

“These programs help reduce price volatility for them because the premium is a risk management strategy from a price perspective,” Brown said.

Currently, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) pegs all natural fed cattle carcass premium averaging over $30 cwt. NHTC program premiums average $22, according to Brown.

While the Choice-Select spread experiences a lot of seasonal shifts, all natural and NHTC premiums are more consistent throughout the year. For example, Brown quotes the Choice-Select spread a $20/cwt in November 2021 compared to $8/cwt for the week ending March 14, 2022.

Understand that carcass premiums don’t directly reflect the premiums paid to cow-calf producers for younger calves, however, value is certainly added to calves verified within these specialty programs.

“Indirectly, with those premiums, feedyards are going to pay more for feeder cattle eligible for NHTC or all natural programs. Some will argue that we can’t see those premiums, but we do see them.

Feedyards will bid more for feeder cattle in those programs,” Brown said.

Structure of NHTC, All Natural and Antibiotic-Free Programs The structure and process to get calves certified for all natural, NHTC, and antibiotic-free programs are rigid in nature. Audits by a third-party verification company take place, and while all programs may have different details, producers are required to manage cattle exactly as the program requires and stay vigilant in their record keeping.

“I believe that a precision livestock management mindset will be beneficial to producers moving forward. If Walmart can tell you were a mango came from in two minutes, there will be an interest in it for the beef industry,” said Mike John, director of Health Track operations for MFA Incorporated.

All natural, NHTC, and antibiotic free programs have built-in third-party verification. Historically, the cost of on-farm audits have been an obstacle that many Missouri producers aren’t willing to accept. Now, programs have become somewhat more accessible with phone audits or audit representatives based closer to Missouri.

require the record keeping and auditing process. The auditing process provides the verification company proof that implants aren’t utilized, MGA is not included in a feed ration, and lutelyse is judiciously handled and utilized only in reproductive management of the cowherd, for example.

The management requirements for all natural and antibiotic free programs are even more stringent and require added labor. Calves must be individually identified as treated with antibiotics in response to a sickness and feed tags are collected to ensure that ingredients align with program specifications, etc.

Herd health history should also be considered when thinking of entering all natural or antibiotic-free programs. A respiratory disease outbreak requiring treatment with antibiotics will negatively affect the bottom line because of ineligible calves. In addition, producers at risk for anaplasmosis will be required to manage the disease in a way that doesn’t involve medicated mineral.

Know the Marketing End Goal Before reaching for premiums associated with all natural, NHTC or antibiotic free programs, producers need to have a solid marketing plan in place. Depending on the program particulars, parameters may be in place for marketing specialty program cattle.

“What I absolutely believe is that if you are going down this road, I suggest that you have a marketing plan predetermined,” John said.

Future Outlook “The data shows that one the last five or six years, we haven’t seen supply outrunning demand and the premium has stayed constant,” Brown said.

Currently, consumers who are interested in purchasing beef marketed under these specialty programs are willing to pay the premium prices for the product.

“At some time we could outrun demand for the product. That’s what will erode the premium. Then it becomes the game of what’s the added added cost or risk relative to the premium,” Brown said.

John believes that consumer demand will force supply changes in the future, whether it be all natural, NHTC, antibiotic free, or something specifically dealing with animal welfare, etc.

Brown also believes that it will take time for supply to catch up to demand. In three to five years, Brown believes that the market for these program cattle may look different. Until then, consistent premiums could have more producers looking into the possibility of all natural, NHTC or antibiotic-free programs. Interested producers just need to do their homework and make sure these programs are a right fit for their operation, now and in the future.

Accurate Risk Assessment Beef producers must be honest with themselves when determining if a specific program is a possibility for their operation because they will be required to manage cattle differently in order to qualify for all natural, NHTC or antibiotic-free programs.

“Producers must do an accurate assessment of the risk to production relative to the payout,” Brown said.

A surprisingly high percentage of cow-calf producers don’t implant calves despite the fact that the increased gain would greatly exceed the cost of an implant. For these producers, entry into an NHTC would possibly require fewer management changes, yet would still

April 2022

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INDUSTRY NEWS

Keep the Faith

By Chris Chinn, Director of the Missouri Department of Agriculture Green grass. Newborn calves. Tractors and planters rolling across freshly plowed soil. As agriculturalists, we love these signs of spring.

Unfortunately, Missouri’s farmers and ranchers face challenges this spring before they ever put a seed in the ground. High fertilizer and fuel costs are adding to an already difficult time as farmers struggle to secure inputs and equipment.

These challenges might leave some producers asking if they should even plant in 2022. I encourage you to keep the faith.

The farming community has proven time and again that we are resilient. When there is a flood, we clean up and replant.

When the calf dies, we rebreed. This is another instance where we must keep pushing forward.

Never before has Missouri agriculture been so critical to the food security of our nation and of the world. The Russian invasion of Ukraine certainly impacts American agriculture with regard to fertilizer and crude oil prices. But, also realize that area of the globe is a major breadbasket. Ukraine is a major supplier of wheat, as much as 14 percent of the world’s exports. Russia is threatening to halt exports of wheat, corn, rye and barley. Other nations, meaning other farmers, will stand in the gap to replace those products.

Soybean harvest in Brazil is underway, but is facing intense weather pressure, which has impacted yields. Drought in the southern part of that nation has also played a role in the amount of product harvested. Stored American soybeans are more competitive on the international market.

Beef exports in January remained red hot, up 13 percent from a year ago. Export value to South Korea set a new record and strong increases were also realized in the Far East and Central America.

China imports more corn than any nation in the world, by some margin. As China continues to repopulate their swine herds, the nation’s need for corn will continue. Brazil, Argentina, Ukraine and the U.S. account for nearly 90 percent of the corn exported to the world market. Drought in Brazil and Argentina, plus the war in Ukraine, will increase the demand for U.S. corn.

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Missouri agriculture is in a prime spot to help fill the demand.

Ranking third in the country for beef, our cattlemen and women are already leaders in beef production. The 2021 soybean crop was on track to set records right up to the time of harvest.

We still saw excellent yields, even taking into account flooding in some of the most fertile bottom ground due to a 10-day spring rainfall. Though Missouri isn’t a major wheat player compared to other states, producers harvested nearly 500,000 acres last year.

You have heard me say it before, but I will continue to brag that Missouri ranks in the Top 10 nationally in 14 different commodities. The best part of that list is the sheer diversity – beef, rice, cotton, soybeans, turkeys, hogs, chickens and corn.

Following the next agriculture census, we will likely add peanuts to that list. The sheer diversity of agriculture is another reason Missouri farmers continue to play such a major role in global food security.

Farmers and ranchers must continue to produce the same quality products, whether protein or plant, so that we receive the most return possible on the investment. We produce more with less every year. The efficiencies of the American farmer are tremendous. That will be key as producers manage risk in 2022. There is no way to know how long fertilizer prices will remain at double, and triple in some areas, the price of last year. Thankfully, crude oil prices have leveled off as I write these words in mid-March. I hope those prices have continued to drop as you read them in April.

Spring is here. It’s time to plant; time to make breeding decisions. I encourage you to keep the faith. Missouri is positioned to play an even larger role in feeding and fueling the world.

Perhaps Will Rogers said it best – “The farmer has to be an optimist or he wouldn’t still be a farmer.”

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Suarez, V., Lifschitz, A., Sallovitz, J., et al. 2009. “Effects of faecal residues of moxidectin and doramectin on the activity of arthropods in cattle dung.” ScienceDiet.72 1551-1558.

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Robert “Bob” E. Foote Robert “Bob” E. Foote, age 77, of Bucyrus, KS, passed away Friday, March 25, 2022, at his home surrounded by loved ones.

Bob Foote was born in 1944. He lived a life full of ambition, risk, love, determination, and faith.

We want to share a short reflection here with you about some of the moments in his life.

He began his cattle education as a young man early mornings in the milk barn on the small Foote Family Dairy Farm. He enjoyed music his entire life and loved listening to Elvis while milking. Inevitably his dad would come out to the barn and tune the radio to orchestra music. He eventually grew to appreciate this music as well!

Bob attended Wea Catholic Schools near Bucyrus, KS – his favorite teacher in High School was Sister Gregory whom Greg is named after her. She was tough and demanded that he push himself – this self-pressure would possibly become the best trait of his life. Bob loved his time playing basketball, and he credits his coach for a lot of his drive as well. Bob never moved far from home, but he certainly reminded his boys many times that his dad, Earl, told him that he had to push “further than the streets of Wea.” Bob took this to mean that he was meant for more.

Like many young men at the time, he spent a couple of years in the National Guard where he met many of his life-long friends. He really, really loved a lot of those guys. Greg mentioned that this was kind of his “college” experience.

Bob enjoyed his time after high school and the guard. He came home where Bob worked on the growing Foote Family Farm with his dad and brother Jim. It is safe to say they all had a bit of fun as well! Lots of stories have been told from this time and it clearly would have been an exciting time to know Bob and his friends. The next chapter of his life began in 1973, at 28 years old, when he met “the girl.”

Unknowingly, Bob and Gail attended a mutual friends’ wedding reception in Kansas City. The first things she noticed was his strong laugh. Initially Gail was turned away because of how smooth Bob was with the ladies, but was intrigued by his beaming confidence.

Bob took a chance and asked her out. She flatly turned him down.

It wasn’t until a year later that they accidentally bumped into one another again. This time he convinced Gail to “take the risk.” Their first date was to a Royals game with his parents and three nuns. Gail was swept off her feet by Bob’s charm, wit, and just like in the beginning his strong laugh. Gail was officially sold after she was invited for a first birthday party for two of Bob’s nieces – he was great with the kids and had a beautifully fun and faith-filled family – from there on she was in for the ride.

Bob and Gail were married in 1975. Their honeymoon was spent in Colorado, and Bob made a point to tour some of the biggest cattle feeding operations in the country. This “honeymoon tour” gave Bob his goal of growing his future cattle business in this way. An exciting chapter of Bob and Gail’s life began when their first child Scott was born in 1976, followed by Brad in 1977 and Colleen in 1979. Colleen had a rough start with several surgeries as an infant. This experience brought Bob and Gail closer together and created a special bond with Colleen. She has had a special place in their heart ever since. In 1987 Greg was born. As Greg was growing up, Bob often claimed that he cloned Greg. He tried to take this claim back a few times, but it was too late!

One of the most pivotal moments in Bob’s life was on Thanksgiving Day, 1982 at 36 years old. This is the day that Bob took his last drink.

Bob would credit this to saving his family and making his business.

Gail often said that Bob took all of the energy he was putting into drinking and recommitted all of it to his business. This would be a pivotal moment in Bob’s life.

In 1985, Bob and Gail decided to begin their own business. They started Foote Cattle Company.

Bob loved cattle. He knew how to find a good one, but more importantly, he knew a bad one. Bob loved negotiation and was the best at it. I cannot emphasize enough how much he loved the game of business and negotiation. These traits proved to work well together and became the foundation for his business career!

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I April 2022

He started his cattle career trading dairy and beef cows and calves out of the back of a two-ton truck with stock racks.

He would see some for sale “worth the chips” in the Sunday Kansas City paper and he would go try to make a deal. Bob’s negotiation skills and cattle eye were sharpened during these early trades.

As his young business matured, Bob changed his ways from cattle “trading” to cattle “buying”. He was clearly the best in our industry at this. Bob began buying country cattle and attending local auctions. Bob loved a good cattle auction and a great auctioneer. On Wednesdays he could always be found in the seats at the St. Joe, MO Stockyards – he had a dedicated phone line that rang right to his seat…many, many cattle deals were made from that seat.

Bob, in fact, bought the last set of cattle that ever traded at this historic stockyards when it closed in 2021. He developed a customer base selling cattle to feeders in Nebraska, Iowa, and Kansas. Who knows how many times a check was floating around waiting for another one to come in and cover it!

One day in 1989, at the Kansas City Stockyards, Bob bought three loads of good, thin steers worth the money. He had begun to develop a friendship with Wayne Tilly over the past few years in the seats at the auction. Wayne asked Bob what he planned to do with those three loads of steers and Bob responded “I’m going to pick up the phone and try to sell them.” Wayne convinced Bob that they should partner on this set and send them to the feedyard and feed them out instead. This was the beginning of a great partnership between Bob and Wayne.

Bob and Wayne continued partnering on cattle from there forward.

After a few years they were feeding so many that they decided they should consider buying their own feedlot together. After a search that took a couple of years, in 1997 they bought Hoxie Feedyard. Scott moved to Hoxie in 1997 and he credits this move away from home as a gift from his dad – pushing him out of the nest! We lost Wayne suddenly in 2000, he was dad’s best friend.

In 2004, after we lost Colleen, Brad and Wayne’s daughter, Linsey, fell in love and brought back together our two families. It was a special moment for all of us!

We bought the ranch near Manhattan in 2003. Colleen really loved the rolling hills and green grass on the ranch. He and his boys have bought several farms and ranches since – Bob loved buying a good farm and making it better.

Over the next years Bob and his boys worked to grow the business.

We bought Imperial Beef and Brad moved to Imperial, NE in 2007.

Lane County Feeders, Pioneer Feedyard, and Decatur County Beef came into our family company over the following years.

We have had many other interesting business adventures over all of these years, including purchasing a bank in 2019. Bob and his family have always stayed aggressive and more importantly BULLISH. This positive attitude is truly a big key to Bob’s success in business and life. Our business “motto” given to us by him was “GET IT” – always reminding us to keep pushing and moving forward!

Bob always loved corn planting and harvest season. He would spend many hours with his nephew, Jim, talking about the farm - he was very proud of the farm and Jim. The 2021 corn harvest was Jim’s best and Bob spent a couple of hours riding in the combine - this was a highlight of Bob’s last year. He also loved good equipment, hard-working truck drivers, and driving through any of the feedyards looking at a good pen of fat cattle while judging the feeder cattle buyer. He spent a lot of time with Gail, Scott, Brad, and Greg looking over cattle this way. Spending time at the feedyards was his vacation time.

Bob’s older grandsons were blessed to get the chance to spend quite a bit of time with grandpa doing this – a lot of lessons and memories that they need to cherish.

If you were a buyer who worked for Bob you had better be smart, honest, quick-thinking, and willing to take a damn good butt chewing. He was quick to praise good work but never let a celebration get in the way of the next move. A lot of guys sold cattle to Bob over the years. The ones that lasted had a lot of energy and work-ethic and knew what one was worth. Many of these deals were done with the assistance of his “right hand” Carrie. It was well known by all that to get to Bob, you had to go through her. Many of us would poke him a bit and call him “The Master.” He gave out a lot of nicknames and it was fitting to give him one as well!

One thing that made Bob and our entire family proud is the Foote Cattle Company brand. The “F” brand was registered by Bob in 1985 for use on his cattle. It has become so much more to us. This is our family logo and what we like to think of as a symbol of a growing and a strong business. We want our employees, friends, family and people that we do business with to be proud of this brand - and proud to do business with our family.

Bob loved having fun with everyone he was around. He really enjoyed watching and attending a good football game. He clearly loved going to the Chiefs and Kansas State games! After Scott and Brad moved west and Greg was back home, many of the family fun times were spent on football game weekends in Manhattan. Bob was proud that his oldest grandchild went to school at Notre Dame – Andrew attending this strong Catholic University gave Bob a lot of joy.

One thing that Bob had a lot of fun with and took big pride in over the years was his conservative and Catholic values. He, of course, loved the game of business – but he also really enjoyed the game of politics. He closely followed the news of our nation and engaged in political discussions, or rather, gave patented Bob Foote lectures! Bob attended several Republican events and supported many great candidates over the years.

He was a staunch conservative and firmly pro-life. He was a patriot!

Bob leaves here on earth his wife Gail. Scott and his wife, Michelle, and their five children Andrew, a sophomore in college, and Molly who will be attending college with her big brother next year at Notre Dame. Charlie, Max, and Mary Colleen all attend school in Hoxie, KS. Brad and Linsey live in Imperial, NE and their three children Harrison, Tilly, and London are in Junior High and Grade School in Imperial. Greg and Laura and their three boys – the twins Henry and Colin – and Beau all live near home and go to Grade School in Overland Park.

Bob joins in heaven many other family members. Most notably his daughter, Colleen, and his parents Earl and Dorothy (Scheer), and his brother Jim. Left here with us are his Sisters Dorothy Jo Gessler, Wally Foote, and Rose Marie Guetterman and his nephew Jim, along with many other extended family members.

Memorial contributions in Bob’s memory may be made to Queen of the Holy Rosary Catholic School c/o Dengel & Son Mortuary, PO Box 669, Louisburg, KS 66053.

Bob’s faith was honestly the most important thing in his life and became the foundation for his teachings to Scott, Brad, Colleen, and Greg and then to his grandkids. He truly worked to do business with faith in his mind and held the strong belief that his GOD given talent was doing business. He knew that it was his duty as a good, Catholic man to fully use the talents that GOD gave him to the best of his ability each and every day.Bob expected his family, and all he knew, to live in this same manner. Using your talents and making your daily work a living prayer, as he did, is such a wonderful way to improve your life and the lives of those around you.

Bob and Gail, Scott, Brad, and Greg lost Colleen suddenly in May of 2004 at 24 years old.

This loss obviously created a lot of sorrow in the family – it was truly amazing how Bob and Gail transformed this tragedy into a fantastic positive for family growth. The strength of our family became even stronger with having Colleen in heaven to watch over us all. Bob mentioned many times that Colleen “pulled us out of a trap” when we had some tough business times, which we certainly have. We are thankful that Colleen has been up there for us, and even more thankful that she has Dad with her now.

Many employees work with us every day at our companies. There are nearly 400 people working alongside of our family every day.

He was very proud of people on our team that worked hard and took great care to do their job to the best of their ability. He liked it when things were kept nice and clean – he wouldn’t stand for a worn out or messy operation. He liked people to look good and take pride in their work. We want all of our people to know that we will continue what he started and make it continue to better so we can make him proud of all of us. Bob was driven to work harder when he knew that he was alongside of others who were putting in a great effort. Our family is so grateful to have so many good people on our team.

Bob also has many friends that are still here with us. These friends will remain close to our family and will always hold a very special place in our hearts. These friends continue to do business with Scott, Brad, and Greg and we are planning on expanding the great business that he started.

April 2022

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11

NETWORK KNOW-HOW

We Did Not Lose, We Learned

By Erin Hull for Cattlemen’s News As I watched my kids head out the door for school last week without masks on for the first time in over two years, I could finally see the light at the end of the tunnel. Life is finally getting back to normal after two years in this state I call home.

While it is easy to look at everyone’s mask free faces, I can’t help but reflect on how life, even on the farm, has changed in these years that seemed to last longer than most.

For all the years we have been raising and selling freezer beef I have always taken for granted that I could call our local (sixty miles one way, but local nonetheless) butcher and secure freezer camp dates for animals that were just a few weeks away. If we wanted to schedule fall beef dates I always knew to book a few months in advance. It was a fairly flawless system that never failed me. I was able to see how the steers were growing and schedule dates specifically around their weight gains. If steers were growing faster than normal they get dates sooner than those steers that were lagging a bit. This assured me that my hanging weights would be consistent. With consistent weights I could comfortably inform our customers what their expected bill would be. Then Covid19 hit. This system that worked for seventeen years got thrown out the window.

Our butcher was now booking TWO YEARS out. Two years!

How on earth do I work around this? I was now setting slaughter dates for animals that had not even been born. This resulted in hanging weights varying by almost two hundred pounds.

Long time customers were frustrated because they could not order beef because I was unable to secure slaughter dates.

New customers were calling every day, which was wonderful, but I could not provide them answers. They wanted to fill their freezers as they stared at empty meat counters in their local grocery stores, yet were new to the bulk meat scene and had a very steep learning curve. Everyone was frustrated, myself being at the top of that list.

But through all tough times, one must learn. On the fly I learned I needed to be better organized, especially with the butcher. I wanted to be their star student so that if and when they had a cancellation I would be their first call. I made sure all cut sheets were filled out well before steers showed up on their doorstep. I made sure my communication with my customers was on point so that I could minimize the confusion with hanging weights and slaughter dates. I made sure I checked in with the butcher every few weeks just to say hello, in hopes of hearing them say “We happen to have an opening due to a cancellation in three weeks”. All of this played to my advantage and our farm is now the butcher’s first call when they have cancellations. Life now seems back on track and we have dates that fit perfectly with our herd.

Switching gears, before Covid19 hit, I did several farm tours every year. The Beef Council generally hosted at least two events at our farm per year for the local college’s registered dietician program. I loved these events because we were able to educate students who would soon be providing nutritional guidance to their clients. We were able to provide them clear and concise information about the importance of beef in a balanced diet. These students always came in green and left with a significant amount of beef and general agriculture knowledge. Once again, these tours had to end. No more in person tours. It was a hard hit for me, the Beef Council and the students. Thankfully technology gained leaps and bounds and it is never too late to teach an old dog new tricks. We all Continued on next page 12

Estrumate® (cloprostenol injection) 250 mcg cloprostenol/mL (equivalent to 263 mcg cloprostenol sodium/mL) A sterile solution of a prostaglandin F2 analogue for intramuscular injection in beef cows, lactating dairy cows, and replacement beef and dairy heifers Caution: Federal (USA) law restricts this drug to use by or on the order of a licensed veterinarian.

DESCRIPTION: Estrumate® (cloprostenol injection) is a synthetic prostaglandin analogue structurally related to prostaglandin F2  (PGF2 ). Each mL of the sterile colorless aqueous solution contains 250 mcg cloprostenol (equivalent to 263 mcg cloprostenol sodium), 6.1 mg sodium citrate, 0.56 mg anhydrous citric acid, 6.7 mg sodium chloride, 20 mg benzyl alcohol, and water for injection, q.s.

INDICATIONS FOR USE: 1. For unobserved or non-detected estrus in beef cows, lactating dairy cows, and replacement beef and dairy heifers 2. For treatment of pyometra or chronic endometritis in beef cows, lactating dairy cows, and replacement beef and dairy heifers 3. For treatment of mummified fetus in beef cows, lactating dairy cows, and replacement beef and dairy heifers 4. For treatment of luteal cysts in beef cows, lactating dairy cows, and replacement beef and dairy heifers 5. For abortion of beef cows, lactating dairy cows, and replacement beef and dairy heifers 6. For estrus synchronization in beef cows, lactating dairy cows, and replacement beef and dairy heifers 7. For use with Fertagyl® (gonadorelin) to synchronize estrous cycles to allow for fixed time artificial insemination (FTAI) in lactating dairy cows.

Estrumate causes functional and morphological regression of the corpus luteum (luteolysis) in cattle. In normal, non-pregnant cycling animals, this effect on the life span of the corpus luteum usually results in estrus 2 to 5 days after treatment. In animals with prolonged luteal function (pyometra, mummified fetus, and luteal cysts), the induced luteolysis usually results in resolution of the condition and return to cyclicity. Pregnant animals may abort depending on the stage of gestation.

DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION: Two mL of Estrumate (500 mcg cloprostenol) should be administered by INTRAMUSCULAR INJECTION using the specific dosage regimen for the indication. 20 mL bottle size: Use within 28 days of first puncture. 100 mL bottle size: Use within 28 days of first puncture and puncture a maximum of 12 times. Use only with automatic injection equipment or repeater syringe. Discard bottle after one stopper puncture with draw-off spike.

1. For unobserved or non-detected estrus in beef cows, lactating dairy cows, and replacement beef and dairy heifers Cows and heifers which are not detected in estrus, although ovarian cyclicity continues, can be treated with Estrumate if a mature corpus luteum is present. Estrus is expected to occur 2 to 5 days following injection, at which time animals may be inseminated. Treated cattle should be inseminated at the usual time following detection of estrus. If estrous detection is not desirable or possible, treated animals may be inseminated twice at about 72 and 96 hours post-injection.

2. For treatment of pyometra or chronic endometritis in beef cows, lactating dairy cows, and replacement beef and dairy heifers Damage to the reproductive tract at calving or postpartum retention of the placenta often leads to infection and inflammation of the uterus (endometritis). Under certain circumstances, this may progress into chronic endometritis with the uterus becoming distended with purulent matter. This condition, commonly referred to as pyometra, is characterized by a lack of cyclical estrous behavior and the presence of a persistent corpus luteum. Induction of luteolysis with Estrumate usually results in evacuation of the uterus and a return to normal cyclical activity within 14 days after treatment. After 14 days post-treatment, recovery rate of treated animals will not be different than that of untreated cattle.

3. For treatment of mummified fetus in beef cows, lactating dairy cows, and replacement beef and dairy heifers Death of the conceptus during gestation may be followed by its degeneration and dehydration. Induction of luteolysis with Estrumate usually results in expulsion of the mummified fetus from the uterus. (Manual assistance may be necessary to remove the fetus from the vagina). Normal cyclical activity usually follows.

4. For treatment of luteal cysts in beef cows, lactating dairy cows, and replacement beef and dairy heifers A cow or heifer may be noncyclic due to the presence of a luteal cyst (a single, anovulatory follicle with a thickened wall which is accompanied by no external signs and by no changes in palpable consistency of the uterus). Treatment with Estrumate can restore normal ovarian activity by causing regression of the luteal cyst.

5. For abortion of beef cows, lactating dairy cows, and replacement beef and dairy heifers Unwanted pregnancies can be safely and efficiently terminated from 1 week after mating until about 5 months of gestation. The induced abortion is normally uncomplicated and the fetus and placenta are usually expelled about 4 to 5 days after the injection with the reproductive tract returning to normal soon after the abortion. The ability of Estrumate to induce abortion decreases beyond the fifth month of gestation while the risk of dystocia and its consequences increases. Estrumate has not been sufficiently tested under feedlot conditions; therefore, recommendations cannot be made for its use in heifers placed in feedlots.

6. For estrus synchronization in beef cows, lactating dairy cows, and replacement beef and dairy heifers The luteolytic action of Estrumate can be utilized to schedule estrus and ovulation for an individual cycling animal or a group of animals.

This allows control of the time at which cycling cows or heifers can be bred. Estrumate can be used in a breeding program with the following methods: • Single Estrumate injection: Only animals with a mature corpus luteum should be treated to obtain maximum response to the single injection. However, not all cycling cattle should be treated since a mature corpus luteum is present for only 11 to 12 days of the 21-day cycle. Prior to treatment, cattle should be examined rectally and found to be anatomically normal, be non-pregnant, and have a mature corpus luteum. If these criteria are met, estrus is expected to occur 2 to 5 days following injection, at which time animals may be inseminated. Treated cattle should be inseminated at the usual time following detection of estrus. If estrous detection is not desirable or possible, treated animals may be inseminated either once at about 72 hours or twice at about 72 and 96 hours post-injection. With a single injection program, it may be desirable to assess the cyclicity status of the herd before Estrumate treatment. This can be accomplished by heat detecting and breeding at the usual time following detection of estrus for a 6-day period, all prior to injection.

If by the sixth day the cyclicity status appears normal (approximately 25%-30% detected in estrus), all cattle not already inseminated should be palpated for normality, non-pregnancy, and cyclicity, then injected with Estrumate. Breeding should then be continued at the usual time following signs of estrus on the seventh and eighth days. On the ninth and tenth days, breeding may continue at the usual time following detection of estrus, or all cattle not already inseminated may be bred either once on the ninth day (at about 72 hours post-injection) or on both the ninth and tenth days (at about 72 and 96 hours post-injection).

• Double Estrumate injections: prior to treatment, cattle should be examined rectally and found to be anatomically normal, non-pregnant, and cycling (the presence of a mature corpus luteum is not necessary when the first injection of a double injection regimen is given).

A second injection should be given 11 days after the first injection. In normal, cycling cattle, estrus is expected 2 to 5 days following the second injection. Treated cattle should be inseminated at the usual time following detection of estrus. If estrous detection is not desirable or possible, treated animals may be inseminated either once at about 72 hours or twice at about 72 and 96 hours following the second Estrumate injection. Many animals will come into estrus following the first injection; these animals can be inseminated at the usual time following detected estrus. Animals not inseminated should receive a second injection 11 days after the first injection.

Animals receiving both injections may be inseminated at the usual time following detection of estrus or may be inseminated either once at about 72 hours or twice at about 72 and 96 hours post second injection.

Any breeding program recommended should be completed by either: • observing animals (especially during the third week after injection) and inseminating or hand mating any animals returning to estrus, or • turning in clean-up bull(s) 5 to 7 days after the last injection of Estrumate to cover any animals returning to estrus.

Management considerations for use of Estrumate for estrus synchronization: A variety of programs can be designed to best meet the needs of individual management systems. A breeding program should be selected which is appropriate for the existing circumstances and management practices. Before a breeding program is planned, the producer’s objectives must be examined and the producer must be made aware of the projected results and limitations. The producer and the consulting veterinarian should review the operation’s breeding history, herd health, and nutritional status and agree that a breeding program is practical in the producer’s specific situation. For any successful breeding program: • cows and heifers must be normal, non-pregnant, and cycling (rectal palpation should be performed); • cows and heifers must be in sound breeding condition and on an adequate or increasing plane of nutrition; • proper program planning and record keeping are essential; • if artificial insemination is used, it must be performed by competent inseminators using high-quality semen.

It is important to understand that Estrumate is effective only in animals with a mature corpus luteum (ovulation must have occurred at least 5 days prior to treatment). This must be considered when breeding is intended following a single Estrumate injection.

There is no difference in the fertility achieved following the single or double dosage regimen when breeding occurs at induced estrus, or at 72 and 96 hours post-treatment. Conception rates may be lower than expected in those fixed time breeding programs employing Estrumate alone which omit the second insemination (ie, the insemination at or near 96 hours). This is especially true if a fixed time insemination is used following a single Estrumate injection.

7. For use with Fertagyl® (gonadorelin) to synchronize estrous cycles to allow for fixed time artificial insemination (FTAI) in lactating dairy cows Use in reproductive synchrony programs similar to the following: • Administer the first Fertagyl® injection (2 mL; 86 mcg gonadorelin, as gonadorelin acetate) by intramuscular injection on Day 0.

• Administer 2 mL of Estrumate by intramuscular injection 6 to 8 days after the first Fertagyl® injection.

• Administer the second Fertagyl® injection (2mL; 86 mcg gonadorelin, as gonadorelin acetate) 30 to 72 hours after the Estrumate injection.

• Perform FTAI 8 to 24 hours after the second Fertagyl® injection, or inseminate cows on detected estrus using standard herd practices.

CONTRAINDICATIONS: Do not use this drug product in pregnant cattle, unless abortion is desired.

WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS: WITHDRAWAL PERIODS AND RESIDUE WARNINGS: No milk discard or pre-slaughter drug withdrawal period is required when used according to labeling. Use of this product in excess of the approved dose may result in drug residues.

USER SAFETY WARNINGS: Not for use in humans. Keep this and all drugs out of the reach of children.

Women of childbearing age, asthmatics, and persons with bronchial and other respiratory problems should exercise extreme caution when handling this product.

Estrumate is readily absorbed through the skin and can cause abortion and/or bronchospasms. Direct contact with the skin should therefore be avoided. Accidental spillage on the skin should be washed off immediately with soap and water. To obtain a copy of the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) or for technical assistance, contact Merck Animal Health at 1-800-211-3573 or http://www.merck.com ANIMAL SAFETY WARNINGS: As with all parenteral products, careful aseptic techniques should be employed to decrease the possibility of post-injection bacterial infection. Severe localized clostridial infections associated with injection of Estrumate have been reported. In rare instances, such infections have resulted in death. Aggressive antibiotic therapy should be employed at the first sign of infection at the injection site, whether localized or diffuse.

At 50 and 100 times the recommended dose, mild side effects may be detected in some cattle. These include increased uneasiness, slight frothing, and milk let-down.

CONTACT INFORMATION: To report suspected adverse drug experiences, call Merck Animal Health at 1-800-211-3573. For additional information about adverse drug experience reporting for animal drugs, contact FDA at 1-888-FDA-VETS or at http://www.fda.gov/reportanimalae HOW SUPPLIED: 20 mL and 100 mL multidose vials STORAGE, HANDLING, AND DISPOSAL: 1. Protect from light.

2. Store in carton.

3. Store at 2-30°C (36-86°F).

See FDA’s website http://www.fda.gov/safesharpsdisposal for information on safe disposal of needles and other sharps.

Approved by FDA under NADA # 113-645 Copyright © 2017 Intervet Inc (d/b/a Merck Animal Health) a subsidiary of Merck & Co., Inc. Madison, NJ 07940 All rights reserved.

Made in Germany Rev. 12/2018

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Continued from previous page worked together to provide a very similar tour, only through a computer screen. I will admit that the process was bumpy.

More than once we thought we had all our ducks in a row only to have “Technical Difficulties” as we were scheduled to go live. But through patience and perseverance, we always made it happen in the end; even it wasn’t smooth or comfortable.

One advantage that I personally gained through these times is that my husband’s work travel ceased. While he was normally gone 150 nights a year, he was now home full time. This meant he was able to do all the farm chores and feedings. When I got home from work every day I did not have to rush out the door and go to the farm to make sure everyone in the barn was fed and happy. It had already been done. My husband became my knight in shining armor and I was able to relax every night

with a glass (or two) of wine. An added bonus was my wine supplier was also happy with my husband doing daily barn chores for me.

As I look back on the last two, very long years, our farming ventures have changed, but not necessarily for the worse.

With technology we can now provide tours for more groups as they don’t have to travel to the farm. The relationships I have with my customers, both new and old, are stronger because I keep them in the loop and aware of the struggles with slaughter dates. And my cut sheets are always handed to the butcher when we deliver steers, alleviating my stress as well as theirs, earning me their gold star. We did not lose, we learned.

A SCOTTISH PAINTER

By Bill Mainer

A painter named Scotty McCurther, found that his paint would go further, if mixed half in half with plain water. That enhanced his bottom line, and everything was fine, until a church approved his painting offer.

Scaffold and ladders in place, smile beaming on Scotty’s face, as he thought of the money he was making. There appeared an ominous cloud, with lightning and thunder deafening loud, and wind, that left the scaffold shaking.

Torrential rain pouring down, Scotty laying on the ground, covered by paint that had washed off the wall. Midst all the chaos and the rubble Scotty knew he was in trouble, when he heard the Master’s call: REPAINT, REPAINT, AND THIN NO MORE!!

ADVERTISEMENT

Get cows and replacement heifers bull bred faster A simple heat synchronization program can open opportunities for profit

No matter the price of cattle, a heavier, more consistent calf crop will be more marketable. But with higher cattle prices, there is an opportunity for even greater margins.

Getting cows and heifers pregnant in a timely manner is critical to reaping economic advantages.

There’s a lot of profit potential if they can be bred the first 21 days of the breeding season.

On the flip side, for every 21 days cows are open, between 20 and 40 pounds of weaning weight is lost.1,2 And, with today’s high feed prices, there is a considerable cost to maintaining open cows.

Heat synchronization isn’t just for AI A University of Nebraska-Lincoln study evaluated how heat synchronization affects calving distribution – and how time of calving affects carcass characteristics.2 Heat was synchronized with a single injection of prostaglandin 4.5 days (108 hours) after turning mixed-age bulls in with the cow herd. Study results show these benefits of synchronization: • More cows calved during the first 21 days

A simple solution: heat synchronization

Heat synchronization can help manage the timing of your breeding and calving seasons, whether you bull breed or use artificial insemination (AI). Getting more cows pregnant in the first 21 days delivers these benefits: Shorter calving interval

Increased profit potential

Earlier conception

More uniform calf crop

Increased weaning weights

Market Commentary, from Corbitt Wall.

One shot of ESTRUMATE 4 to 5 days after turning out the bulls is the optimal protocol. However, if that protocol won’t fit your management system, one shot at turnout will still induce more cows to show heat sooner and get more cows calving during the first 21 days.

A lot of factors go into reproductive success.

It’s important to work with your veterinarian on vaccinations to optimize conception and to prevent reproductive loss through breeding and gestation.

Your veterinarian can also assist with parasite management programs, bull management, bull stocking rate and breeding soundness exams.

By Jacques Fuselier, DVM, DACT, DABVP Cattle Technical Services

For more information, visit Estrumate.com or scan the QR code using the camera on your phone.

• Calves born in the first 21 days had greater carcass weights, marbling scores and better yield grades • Heavier, more valuable carcasses, which were worth an additional $77 per carcass at the feedlot

the Latest Daily Cattle

ESTRUMATE® (cloprostenol injection) is a leading prostaglandin that allows producers to manage heat detection, breeding and calving intervals, whether using bull breeding or AI. It offers a long half-life of three hours.3

• Calves were 20 pounds heavier at weaning

• Shortened breeding season from 60 to 45 days

Listen to Feeder Flash,

Simple, one-dose synchronization

Cushman RA, Kill LK, Funston RN, Mousel EM, Perry GA. Heifer calving date positively influences calf weaning weights through six parturitions. J Anim Sci. 2013;91:4486-4491.

2 Larson DM, Musgrave JA, Funston RN. Estrous synchronization increases early calving frequency, which enhances steer progeny value. Nebraska Beef Cattle Reports. 2010;14-16.

3 European Agency for the Evaluation of Medicinal Products, Committee for Veterinary Medicinal Products, Cloprostenol and R-Cloprostenol Summary Report, 1997.

1

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION: Women of childbearing age, asthmatics, and persons with respiratory problems should exercise extreme caution when handling ESTRUMATE. ESTRUMATE is readily absorbed through the skin and may cause abortion and/or bronchospasms; direct contact with the skin should be avoided and accidental spillage on the skin should be washed off immediately with soap and water. Do not administer ESTRUMATE to a pregnant cow if abortion is not desired. Severe localized post-injection clostridial infections have been reported; in rare instances infection has led to death. At 50 and 100 times the recommended dose, mild side effects may be detected.

For complete information on ESTRUMATE, see package insert.

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INDUSTRY NEWS

Consumers Facing Higher Prices Across the Board

By Scott Brown for Cattlemen’s News Consumers feel the pinch of higher prices for virtually everything they purchase today. From energy to food to housing prices, they are all growing at rates that have not been experienced in decades. Although cattle producers have not been spared the effects of higher prices for everything they buy for their operations, this article is focused on the impacts of higher prices on consumer behavior. It will be interesting to see how consumers change or adjust their consumption habits due to the inflation they currently face.

Beef demand has been strong the past few years and has kept cattle and beef prices higher than would have occurred with-

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BRIGHTON - Hwy 13, 15 Ac., Open & wooded mix, great visibility from both directions of Hwy 13, conveniently located between Springfield & Bolivar ............................ $97,500

SOLD

ASH GROVE - 34 Ac., Hwy 160, located just east of Ash Grove w/frontage on 160. All open, $159,000 great visability ...........................$159,000

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BILLINGS - Hwy M, 30 Ac., Great private setting, open/wooded combo, new well, new $225,000 fence, road on two sides ...............$225,000 CRANE - Farm Road 2027, 20 Ac., Road on 3 sides, new 1 BR open floor plan home, cross $275,000 fence, pond, great excessibility ......$275,000 AURORA - 3.5 Ac., Law. 2145, really cute farm house on 3 1/2 acres, long drive, shop, $280,000 outbuildings, nice setting ..............$280,000

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CLEVER - Smart Road, 40 Ac., nice and open $295,000 property with great views ..............$295,000 HALFWAY - 445th Rd., 9 Ac., 6 BR home, horse barn, 10,000 sq. ft. shop & office, 3 phase $425,000 power ......................................$425,000 MARIONVILLE- - 10 Ac Hwy 413. Recently remodeled home, 40 x 60 shop, 40 x 80 hay barn $485,000 and detached garage....................$485,000 AURORA - Hwy K, 6 Ac., Beautiful all brick full walkout basement home, open floor plan, 60x120 red iron shop w/7 14 ft. tall overhead doors, great views in all directions ............. $498,500 ..............................................$498,500

SOLD

LA RUSSELL - 53 Ac., Hwy YY, Great Country Estate in private setting, open/wooded combination, 7 BR home, 40x52 shop, 40x80 iron equipment shed, 36x36 livestock barn, pipe fence, great for hunting & livestock, Nice! .... $512,500 ..............................................$512,500

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MT VERNON - 21 Ac Law 2100. Great horse farm set up and ready to go. Nice home, Indoor & Outdoor arena. Stall barn, Multiple $549,000 Paddocks with run-in sheds,. .........$549,000

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MT. VERNON - 80 Ac. Law. 2160 Historic “Meyer Farms Vineyard” w/32 Acres of productive grapevines w/6 varieties, 2 irrigation well, $575,000 century old barn w/60x40 pole barn ..$575,000

SOLD

SARCOXIE - 95 Ac. on State Hwy 37, Nice open ground fenced & cross-fenced, 6 Ac. Lake, great $585,000 development potential ......................$585,000 ASH GROVE - 121 Ac., Farm Road 74, great open property located just West of Ash Grove in Greene $600,000 County, ponds, spring, nice................$600,000 STOCKTON - 200 Ac Waggoner Rd. Great hunting and recreational property, Fenced for cattle, creek, nice balance of open and $630,000 wooded ground. .........................$630,000

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REED’S SPRING - 145 Ac. Dogwood Tree Rd. off Hwy 160 rolling nice clear Ozark pasture land w/beautiful scenic views & outstanding building site, over 1/2 mile road frontage w/ $696,000 easy access points ......................$696,000 LOCKWOOD - 160 Ac CR 41. Open and level pasture ground just north of Lockwood, fenced, $720,000 rural water. ...............................$720,000 LOCKWOOD - 138 Ac CR 72. Road frontage on 2 sides, mostly all tillable, great Location ......... ............................................... $759,000 GREENFIELD - Dade 125, 181 Ac., Great grass farm, new fencing & waterers, multiple pastures, new pipe corral, ponds, Nice!.. $771,375 LAMAR - 160 Ac Hwy 160 & 100th Ln. Nice open farm, Fenced and live water, Tillable acres. .... ............................................... $800,000 POTTERSVILLE - 504 Ac. CR 7040. Great grass farm, 9 ponds, well, 2 big pipe corrals, working barn, mostly open, new fence w/pipe corners ................................. $1,257,480

SOLD

MORRISVILLE - 207 AC 127th Rd. Nice open farm ground with 3-bed home and barns, Lake, fenced & Cross-fenced, open tillable ground. ........................................... $1,300,000

UNDER CONTRACT

MT. VERNON - 27 Ac. Hwy M, World Class Equestrian and Event Center, 135x200 indoor arena, 110 event stalls, 80x120 training indoor arena w/58 training stalls, full service restaurant, RV hookups & so much more .............. ........................................... $1,350,000

SOLD

MT. VERNON - 306 Ac., Law. 2150, Great Farm land just south of I-44, Retired Dairy, Multiple outbuildings + barns, 4 BR home, High quality tillable soil. ........................... $1,600,000

SOLD

LEBANON - 414 Ac. Just off Hwy 64, great grass farm, over 200 acres of bottom ground, home, equipment/hay building, fence & cross fence, NICE ..................................... $1,904,400 EVERTON - 522 Ac., Dade 184, all contiguous w/road frontage throughout, great open pasture w/views all around, 14 ponds, 2 barns, pipe/corral, really nice ............. $2,950,000 BOLIVAR - 2140 Ac Hwy 83. One of the great grass farms in SW MO. The Blue Bottom Ranch offers 4 wells, Corrals, Equipment & Hay barns, 20+ ponds and live Creek, Bottom Ground, 400 acres of mature timber and the rest is open. ........................... $6,634,000 NORWOOD - 2,590 Ac. Hwy 76 CR 137, Exceptional cattle ranch in heart of cow/calf country, mostly open w/fence, 3 acres of bottom ground, many buildings, 30 plus ponds & pipe water, 2 nice homes, too much to list .......... ........................................... $7,888,200

SOLD

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out this demand strength. However, given the higher prices consumers face for all products they consume today and the possibility that income growth could slow as this year unfolds, it is critical to evaluate whether the inflation consumers face today will work to the detriment of beef demand.

Before diving into the higher prices that consumers are facing today, it is important to look at aggregate consumer spending and what categories are the largest in terms of consumer expenditures. Today, consumer expenditures in the general services category make up nearly two-thirds of total consumer expenditures. This category includes housing, utilities, medical care, financial services, food services, and accommodations.

The nondurable expenditure category, food at home, clothing, and gasoline, makes up about 22% of total consumer expenditures, while the durable expenditure category, automobiles, furniture, recreational vehicles, is the remaining 12%. The large proportion of consumer expenditures on services is a good reminder of how significant labor costs are to a large share of total consumer expenditures. Higher labor costs will likely keep pushing that portion of consumer expenditures higher in the coming months.

The Consumer Price Index (CPI) for all items was 7.9% above a year ago for February 2022, the highest increase since the early 1980s. Driving the overall CPI growth was the energy CPI up 25.6%, the transportation CPI up 21.1%, and the durable goods CPI up 18.7%.

Large price increases for significant consumer expenditures categories highlight that consumers may need to make tough choices on what they will spend their income on this year.

Similar to the overall CPI increase, the CPI for food increased by 7.9% in February relative to a year ago. The CPI for beef was up 16.2% in February relative to a year ago and was the largest increase of all CPI for food components.

Although there are signs that consumer spending could be altered in 2022 as tough choices in consumption are made given record prices, there is no current evidence that consumers have reduced aggregate beef demand.

The critical takeaway from this look at current price inflation is that there is some risk that beef demand could weaken as the remainder of 2022 unfolds. Although optimism of higher cattle prices dominates most cattle outlooks due to declining cattle numbers, price inflation could be one reason the positive outlook for cattle prices softens. Although it is too early to find any softening of beef demand, cattle producers should be ready to reduce that risk if further price inflation begins to affect purchase decisions made by consumers of beef.

Scott Brown is a livestock economist with the University of Missouri. He grew up on a diversified farm in northwest Missouri.

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MANAGEMENT MATTERS

High-Quality Nutrition for Your Cowherd Year Around

By Eric Bailey for Cattlemen’s News My number one goal for a beef cow is to birth a live calf every 365 days. Interestingly, data out of the Meat Animal Research Center in Clay Center, Nebraska shows that less than 50% of cows in the herd will have four or more calves in their lifetime. This is a problem with many factors, but nutrition plays an important role. Numerous research projects have demonstrated that the lower a cow body condition score is at calving, the longer it will take for her to begin cycling for the next breeding season. Surely, some of the cows that fall out of the herd were not ready to breed during the early part of breeding season and after a couple of years of calving later, they do not breed during our defined breeding season and are culled.

Let’s look at animal and pasture factors that will help manage cow body condition year-round.

Cow management Body condition scoring (BCS) assesses the nutritional status of beef cows without the time and expense of weighing. Cow-calf producers can use BCS to keep breeding stock in condition for breeding. Thin cows breed late. The BCS scoring system for beef cattle has a range of 1 to 9, with 1 representing very thin cows and 9 representing very fat cows. A cow with a BCS of 5 is said to be in average condition. The system is relatively simple: thinner cows look very sharp, angular and skinny, while fatter cows look smooth and boxy with bone structures increasingly hidden from sight or touch.

The condition of cows at calving affects their ability to come into heat for breeding. To have a calf every 12 months, a cow must breed within 80 days of calving. Early breeding cows have heavier calves at weaning. They are also more likely to become bred in following breeding seasons. Calving intervals in excess of 12 months are often caused by poor body condition before the calving season or during the subsequent breeding season. Cows calving in BCS 1-4 take more days to breed after calving than cows in BCS 5-6. We recommend a minimum BCS of 5 at calving. Cows with a BCS of 4 or less at calving will have longer intervals from calving to first estrus than cows in BCS of 5 or higher.

Young cows require about one BCS higher to achieve the same reproductive performance as mature cows, since they have the added requirement of growth. It is much easier to increase condition in cows before rather than after they calve.

Feed consumed after calving is directed first toward milk production. Feeding cows to gain condition early in lactation therefore leads to increased milk production but has little effect on body condition. The target BCS for cows immediately prior to calving is 6. Anything higher than 7 may not be helpful, and scores at less than 5 prior to calving will result in reduced reproductive performance in the subsequent breeding season.

Continued on next page

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Continued from previous page For a more detailed discussion about body condition scoring, see MU Extension publication G2230: Body Condition Scoring of Beef cattle. https://extension.missouri.edu/publications/g2230 Pasture management Managing beef cows would be much simpler if cows ate the exact same feed every day. Unfortunately, we have to manage a dynamic environment. Pasture forage does not grow 365 days a year and forage quality changes constantly. We have two clear gaps in the Missouri forage calendar. The gap that most think about is from when we run out of stockpiled tall fescue in the winter until spring green up. The other gap is the summer slump from June to September. Your calving season dictates which forage gap is the biggest challenge.

A paradox that I often run into happens with a fall calving herd. I am a believer in matching cow nutrient requirements to forage production. The idea of nursing a calf while feeding low-quality hay does not mesh with this philosophy. However, producers who commit to stockpiling fescue and grazing into the new year have a leg up. The quality of stockpiled tall fescue often exceeds cow nutrient requirements, even during that critical juncture of peak lactation and breeding, which occurs between 60 and 90 days after calving. Prepare your pastures in August by clipping forage and applying 40 lbs. of nitrogen fertilizer per acre. Then, defer grazing on this area for as long as possible.

Keep the cows at a BCS of 5 or greater around calving for optimal breeding season performance. One good way to do this is to have high quality pasture forage available for cows during calving and those crucial three months after calving.

Eric Bailey is the State Extension Beef Nutrition Specialist for the University of Missouri.

Managing the summer slump in tall fescue pastures can be a challenge as well.

It is reasonable to suggest that forage management during July and August can be as difficult as any conditions we face during the winter. There have been recent efforts to fill the summer slump forage gap with complementary forages, like native warm season grasses. I applaud those efforts because native warm season grasses are most productive during the summer slump. Having native warm season grasses also allows producers to consider a small change to their calving seasons. Many spring calving producers have challenges with nutrition early after calving. That occurs because calving in January and February places peak nutrient requirements before spring green up on tall fescue pastures.

Let’s acknowledge the two reasons why spring calvers calve in January or February. First, many have the perception that calving in the mud during March is challenging. However, March is the third driest month of the year. April and May are the wettest two months of the year. The weather pattern is uncertain in March. We have had two snowfall events this month. The second issue that comes to mind is calving in January and February puts the breeding season in April and May, avoiding breeding during the warmest months of the year.

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INDUSTRY NEWS

Spring Show-Me-Select Replacement Heifer Sales are almost here! Now what to do with your new purchase…

By Anita Ellis for Cattlemen’s News Spring is finally here! The grass is starting to green up, fertilizer buggies are out in full force, and the spring Show-Me-Select (SMS) Replacement Heifer sales are right around the corner.

If you are planning on purchasing these fall-calving heifers, it is best to protect your investment by managing them right.

A lot of effort has been put into these high-information heifers through management and keeping them on a positive plane of nutrition. By doing this, these heifers meet their goal of becoming sexually mature, expressing estrus, and, finally, maintaining pregnancy. Many of these heifers have been developed on forages that they will consume as cows such as fescue. Because of this they have adapted to their environment and will not have to undergo an adaptation phase.

Once you obtain these heifers, there will be some nutritional management needed to help her continue to be successful, one of the greatest challenges to breed back. Even when forage quality is good, she will still need some energy supplementation. What might this look like on your operation?

Let’s compare a 1,000 lb. first-calf heifer to a mature cow that have both calved. Both are going to need about 13-16 lb. of TDN (Total Digestible Nutrients; a measure of energy) and 2-3 lb. of protein. However, the heifer will consume 3-5 lb. less of total feed than the mature cow. This highlights two points: heifers should be provided higher quality feed and heifers should be fed separate from cows at calving time.

Remember to make sure she is at a body condition score (BCS) of 6 at time of calving. It is important to keep first-calf heifers on a positive plane of nutrition at this time. However, over-conditioning can lead to challenges for pregnant heifers.

If a heifer is over-conditioned, this may perpetuate the required need for feed in order to breed back.

In addition to a quality nutritional management strategy, improving feed efficiency with the help of ionophores may give first-calf heifers a step up. Ionophores are a feed additive that shift rumen fermentation to better efficiency. Some research has shown a reduction in the time between calving and return to estrus, or postpartum interval with the inclusion of ionophores in the diet.

Feeding to meet the nutritional needs for growth, pregnancy, milk production and rebreeding is a critical portion of a management program. Doing this sets up your heifers to be successful cows. If you need assistance in developing a management strategy for your new SMS heifer, reach out to your local livestock specialist. Or better yet; come find us at these upcoming Spring SMS Replacement Heifer Sales!

• 5/6/2022 at 7 PM, SEMO Livestock Sales LLC. Erin Larimore, 660-281-5518 • 5/13/2022 at 7 PM, Farmington Regional Stockyards LLC, Kendra Graham, 573-756-4539 • 5/20/2022 at 6 PM, South Central Regional Stockyards, Anita Ellis, 573-642-0755 • 5/20/2022 at 7 PM, Joplin Regional Stockyards Inc., Eldon Cole, 417-466-3102 • 5/21/2022 at 11 AM, Kingsville Livestock Auction, David Hoffman, 816-380-8460 • 6/4/2022 at 6 PM, F&T Livestock Market. Daniel Mallory, 573985-3911 Anita Ellis is the extension field specialist and the central region Show-Me Select coordinator for the University of Missouri Extension.

View further Show-Me Select information on page 42

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TRENDING NOW

The Power of Positive Thinking

By B. Lynn Gordon for Cattlemen’s News We have been through challenging times the past two years due to the impact of the pandemic. Then, when we think we are starting to see the light at the end of the tunnel, our world takes another uncomfortable shift with freedom under siege. While Ukraine is thousands of miles away, a place where most of us will never visit in our lifetime and know little about, daily news coming from this county leaves us with an unsettling feeling.

Mix this with what may be ramifications from world politics; agriculture is experiencing high gasoline and diesel prices, crop inputs such as fertilizer are selling for nearly double what it was a year ago, and a large portion of the country is praying for rain.

These are challenging times. Times like these can rip the positivity out of even the most glass-full-minded person.

Author Norman Vincent Peale is well-known for his book, “The Power of Positive Thinking.” Even before I studied leadership, I remember my dad referencing this book on many occasions. As someone raised during the depression of the 30s and who struggled to hold onto the farm during the high-interest rates of the 80s, like many in agriculture, my Dad made it through because of the power of positive thinking.

Peale’s book “teaches that your mind is the ultimate root of success and what you need to do is improve self-confidence and eradicate the limiting habit of worry.” How can we think positive thoughts in such disheartening times? Here are a few things to consider: Positive self-talk. We can achieve positive thinking through techniques like positive-self talk. We are often hardest on ourselves and can be our own worst critic. Would we tell our friends who are facing disappointment what we tell ourselves?

This constant barrage of destructive talk only leads to a negative self-opinion. Most of us have heard the statement, “if you can’t say anything nice, don’t say anything at all,” so why do we say damaging words to ourselves. Research has proven that even a slight shift in the positive talk can influence the outcome of the way we feel, react, and think under stress.

Focus on the good. In overwhelming and heartbreaking times,

this is not easy. Our minds shift immediately to pessimism when we are under stress or fail to achieve. How can we find a silver lining in negative situations? Cropland and pastures in many areas are behind without the needed adequate moisture creating uneasiness about the drought, lack of hay and feed for cattle, and potentially reduced crop yields. It can take effort to find the good in times like these. However, taking time to focus on the lifestyle of being a farmer/rancher, being outside in the fresh air, and doing what you aspire to do can help train your brain to think more positively, keeping a balance between the good and the difficult.

Have a sense of humor. Laughter and smiles will lower stress and anxiety. Give yourself permission to have fun, to lighten the mood or just have a good belly laugh during your day. During difficult times, your mood can be heavy, weighing on our actions, impacting our health, and increasing the feelings of depression and low self-esteem. What can you do to ease the pressure you encounter or demonstrate to those around you? Have you ever had a cow jump over the fence when sorting or working cattle? This is a frustrating situation and will add time to the task at hand. But, joking with your crew, at least she went over the fence rather than through it, might bring a much-needed chuckle to everyone.

Identify the source of negativity. Have you noticed a pattern of negativity when visiting with a friend or co-worker? Does their frustration stem back to the same situation or issue repeatedly?

If you have seen this with others, can you find the pattern of negativity with your own thoughts or talk? Can you identify an area of your life where there is a root to the stress, frustration, disappointment, or low mood you are experiencing? We can often easily give advice to our friends or others, but did you know that stepping back and analyzing the source of your negativity or frustration can be beneficial. Once you identify the cause, take steps to redirect your energies so that you can shift the situation from negative to positive.

What can you control? This is huge in the agricultural industry.

There are so many items that we cannot control, from the markets to the weather to regulations. We cannot control the markets, but what steps can you take to lessen the burdens of swings from highs to lows that will bring you more comfort and peace in your mind? Devote your energy to what you can control, how you react to what you are experiencing. When you overthink or overanalyze, you either dwell on the past or skip ahead to the future and create unnecessary worry. Can you find a place of contentment when market swings occur or rain passes by your area when you need it most? If not, the other alternative is increased stress, leading to physical and mental health issues and conflict with others when your frustration level boils over.

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Practice gratitude. Be thankful for what you have. Taking your focus off the difficult times you are experiencing personally or in your business and practicing gratitude for what you have accomplished can bring your peace and contentment. Reach out to help neighbors who might also be struggling or need a hand with a project, spend time with your family or friends, or fuel your inner sole with time with God. Challenging and trying times don’t require longer hours around the farm or ranch, but rather time to reflect, focus, and appreciate yourself.

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TRENDING NOW

Cattle Market Optimism Clouded by Uncertainty and Increased Input Costs

By Derrell Peel for Cattlemen’s News This article is being written at about the three-week mark of the war in Ukraine. That is important because the situation in Europe is very fluid and will continue to evolve. Unlike a weather event or more typical economic or market shock, this is entirely a political/military event, which makes it impossible to have a sense of the timeline or magnitude of future situations. Markets do not like uncertainty and most markets, even those not directly impacted by the conflict, have been affected. However, at this point, some of the initial market reaction has subsided a bit as some of the first shock has settled into more on-going monitoring of the situation.

Crop prices, led by wheat and corn, increased dramatically at the outset in late February, and have pulled back somewhat but remain at elevated levels. Higher feed prices will push feedlot cost of gain even higher in coming months and will keep supplement

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costs higher for cow-calf and stocker producers. Fertilizer prices are sharply higher and likely to remain so because the Ukraine and Russia are major exporters of fertilizer. This will significantly impact introduced forage and hay production.

The most broad-based impacts are seen in energy markets. Crude oil markets spiked higher after the invasion of the Ukraine but have since pulled back closer to prior levels. The jump in diesel and gasoline prices impacts farm production costs, supply chains and shipping, and directly impacts consumers.

Live and Feeder futures markets dropped sharply with the war in response to the immediate reality and longer-term uncertainty of higher feed prices, general uncertainty and the potential impacts on beef demand. Cash feeder cattle prices dropped initially with lower futures and higher feed prices. Cash fed cattle prices have decreased some as well and may have logged an earlier than usual seasonal spring peak. Global beef markets are not highly impacted directly by the situation. Russia is a relatively minor beef importer, and the war does not have much direct impact on global beef exports or imports at this time. The U.S. has not exported beef to Russia since 2012 nor any pork or broilers since 2014.

Concern about potential impacts on beef demand are even higher now. The additional jump in gasoline prices, on top of already higher beef prices and inflationary pressures may curb beef demand in the coming weeks and months. Consumers are unlikely to stop eating beef but may trade down to less expensive beef products and limit restaurant demand in the face of high beef prices. However, with beef production projected to decline in 2022, tighter beef supplies will offset some demand weakness and support cattle and beef prices. Cattle and beef prices will not likely continue to climb as they have recently but will remain high.

All of these broader macroeconomic and global geopolitical issues may take a back seat to drought impacts if conditions do not improve significantly. Drought expanded across the central and southern plains this winter adding the region to the majority of the west that was already experiencing widespread drought.

Drought conditions are currently at the highest level since 2012.

Drought in 2021 accelerated cow herd liquidation and the potential for even more herd liquidation in 2022 is very real. Continued forecasts for higher cattle prices provide optimism for cattle producers but higher input costs and uncertainty will challenge profitability, and producers will face many management and marketing issues in the coming months.

Derrell S. Peel is an Agribusiness and Extension Livestock Marketing Specialist for the Department of Agricultural Economics at Oklahoma State University.

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Consult your veterinarian for assistance in the diagnosis, treatment, and control of parasitism.

All trademarks are the property of Zoetis Services LLC or a related company or a licensor unless otherwise noted. © 2022 Zoetis Services LLC. All rights reserved. GBF-00567

Joplin Regional Stockyards Value-Added Sale: June 23, 2022 Cattle must be tagged with the program specific tag. Tags are purchased through our facility @ $1.50/each.

JRS Calf Vac (white tag)

JRS Vac 45 (grey tag)

DOWNLOAD AND PRINT FORMS Mobile SmartPhone 1. Use your smartphone camera to scan QR code (right).

Once code is scanned, click the link to view the form.

2. Once form is open on your phone, if you are connected to a mobile printer in your home or work, click the option to print form directly from your phone.

WEAN DATE: May 9, 2022

JRS Vac 60 (green tag)

JRS Stocker Vac (orange tag)

Computer 1. Using a web browser, navigate to JRS website www.joplinstockyards.com 2. Once you reach the JRS home page, in the top menu click on the banner ad to navigate to the value-added forms. Once you reach the value-added forms page, PDF forms can be downloaded for each program and printed. *These forms are fillable meaning you can download the form directly to your computer, open and fill it out.

Once you have the form completed on your computer, save and email to Mark Harmon markh@joplinstockyards.com. It’s that easy!

WEAN DATE: April 24, 2022

Other precondition programs are accepted, i.e., MFA Health Track, Purina® Plus Feeder Calf Program, Arkansas GoGREEN Program, Red Angus Feeder Calf Certification Program and Oklahoma’s OQBN. All programs require vaccination forms returned and receipts in a timely manner.

All programs have to have tag tracing ability either to look up calves the day of the sale in case of any problems, i.e. bulls, bred heifers, lameness, sickness and all breed programs. *Vaccination forms will be mailed with tags.

Essick Auction & Realty Upcoming Auctions

Farm Estate Auction Large Farm Equipment Auction Saturday, April 23 at 10 AM Saturday, April 30 at 10 AM 6774 Lawrence 2110, Stotts City, MO 65756 John Deere Tractor, implements, trailers, feed troughs, tools, scrap & more!

13560 Lawrence 2070, Mt. Vernon, MO 65712 Live and Online bidding available!

Visit essickauction.com for more details!

3 - New Holland Tractors, 2 Dodge trucks, vehicles, Guns, Harley Davidson bike, trailers, hay equipment, implements, feed bunks & more!

Scan to view more information

For more info:

417-883-SOLD essickauction.com

Visit essickauction.com for more information and full listings with pictures!

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April 2022

s a ll e s d a e h 5 Over 32

200+ Lots!

Spur Maureen 7267

*19015711 11/02/17

[AMF-CAF-DDF-NHF-OHF-RDF]

CED BW WW YW

+8

MK

-.2 +64 +122

MB

$M

$C

+27 +.86 +61 +284

*19064048 10/16/2017

Spur Lady Reward 7481 [AMF-CAF-DDF-NHF-OHF-RDF]

CED BW WW YW

+6 +2.8 +72 +131

MK

MB

$M

$C

+41 +.65 +72 +308

EPDs as of 3/9/22

March 2022

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TRENDING NOW

The Four Cs of Sharing on Social Media

By Michelle Bufkin Horton When it comes to utilizing social media for your operation there are numerous ways to be effective. Whether you are looking to sell meat or provide information for consumers four rules can benefit your online presence.

Sharing your story might be scary or might seem unnecessary, so it is up to you to decide if the benefits outweigh the costs. Many people are concerned about negative comments that might come with sharing their stories. While that does occur, it can be mitigated and is typically the worse the larger the reach of the page.

As for the argument of sharing your story as unnecessary; most of us can look as far as family members or neighbors to see someone that is removed from the farm.

It may seem to be able to share your story you need to be doing exceptional things every single day with spectacular views.

However, that is not the case at all. The everyday things we do in agriculture (tagging a calf, working cows, or fixing a fence) can seem extraordinary and interesting to those outside of agriculture. To share your story, you do not have to be sensational, just authentic.

1. Conversation over education The first rule about sharing your story might be a little controversial, but it is to have a conversation, instead of seeking to educate.

So many times, I see farmers and ranchers say they want to share their stories online or want to advocate online to educate consumers about agriculture. While I can see the argument the odds

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Think about how you feel when someone tells you they are going to “educate you.” It does not bring up warm and fuzzy feelings or make you want to continue talking to that person. Instead, strive to have a conversation with your followers about what you are doing and why. Ask if they have any questions about ranching or your operation.

If you are talking “to” people instead of “at” people you are going to be coming from a much more authentic place and a place where others are willing to engage with you online. Seeking to have a conversation instead of providing an education is my first rule of sharing online.

2. Caring for animals is our goal The second rule is letting your followers know that caring for animals is the primary goal of a farmer/rancher. If there is something that is going on that could be taken out of context share more about that. Examples could include tagging calves, branding, antibiotics, and more.

People are afraid of the unknown. Share the reasoning behind what you are doing not just the action itself. I will use my antibiotic from my list of examples above. Take some pictures or videos when giving shots - bonus points if the cattle are moving through quietly and calmly in the video. Explain what you are giving the cattle and why. Relate it to something that others outside of agriculture can relate to – ourselves. When we are sick, we go to the doctor and get antibiotics so we can feel better in the quickest amount of time and make a full recovery. We especially do the same with our children. This is the same opportunity that we are providing the animals.

3. Connections matter More things connect us to others than we tend to believe sometimes. Look for that commonality, especially if you are trying to advocate for agriculture. It is easy to find things in common with people that look, think, and live just like us. Fortunately, the world only has one of each of us though.

Branch out and look for common themes you can build connections on and make relations back to your followers. For me, that looks like traveling and outdoor activities. I can build a foundation and following on those things and have conversations about ranching. These commonalities will be beneficial in growing and connecting with your following and allowing for conversations outside of agriculture.

4. Consistency is key There are all sorts of algorithms and formulas that you can learn about the intricacies of social media. While I love that, I know it is not for everyone. My biggest piece of advice is posting with consistency. You do not have to post every single day. Heck, you do not even have to post every week. But more consistent posts mean stronger connections, conversations, and engagements.

50+ SALE DAY CONTACTS:

are that it will not lead to effective conversations or outstanding changes in perception.

REQUEST YOUR SALE CATALOG TODAY! SALE MANAGER: JWC MARKETING LLC WES CHISM

WES@JWCMARKETING.COM

Pick a goal for the frequency of the number of posts and put it somewhere you can see every day. That goal will help you remain consistent. If you struggle to think of things to post, draw from your daily life. Some of the posts I have seen get the most engagement are the ones that are authentic stories.

Social media is modern-day storytelling and all of agriculture has an amazing story to tell. Get out there and join the conversation.

Michelle Bufkin Horton is a freelance ag writer based in Arkansas.

April 2022

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TRENDING NOW

Sire Selection Tools for Breeding More Productive and Profitable Cows

By Troy Rowan for Cattlemen’s News When we think about what makes a commercial cowherd exceptional, we must remember the long-term role that effective sire selection plays. Nailing the bull-buying decision is essential for the long-term success of an operation. This decision impacts not only the calf crops that a bull sires during its lifetime but also performance in successive generations when replacement females are retained. Long-lived females are the cornerstone of a profitable commercial operation, so identifying bulls that will sire productive daughters is essential.

A commercial cow typically doesn’t become profitable until six years of age. Only then has it recouped the cost of its development and maintenance costs. We know that heifer development done the right way is not cheap, so cows leaving the heard before that profitable age are likely losing money.

Since cow longevity is such an important trait, and bulls are the chief driver of genetic progress in a commercial herd, having EPD-based selection tools for cow productivity is essential for long-term genetic improvement. Predicting a bull’s genetic ability to make long-lived daughters allows us to better evaluate its “big picture” contributions to the herd.

Many breed associations report cow longevity EPDs. The most common measure is stayability (STAY). STAY EPDs can be interpreted as the difference between sires in the percentage of daughters that will remain in the herd until age six without

missing a calf. For example, if Bull A’s STAY EPD was 20 and Bull B’s was 30, we’d expect that 10% more of Bull B’s daughters would remain in the herd at age 6. The results of using STAY in practice are striking. An analysis from the American Simmental Association showed that daughters of bulls in the top 25% of the breed for STAY were twice as likely to remain in the herd at age six compared with daughters of bulls in the bottom 25% of the breed. Daughters of high STAY (top 25%) sires had an average of two more calves in their productive lifetime than daughters of low STAY sires.

Stayability is a compound trait, meaning that it is made up of multiple other individual component traits. All of the reasons we could imagine culling a cow from the herd early play into STAY: fertility, structural soundness, udder quality, disposition, maternal ability, and other traits. Many breed associations also directly report EPDs for individual cow-focused traits.

This allows us to select for important female traits in breeds without STAY EPDs, as well as on specific components of overall longevity that a particular herd might need. For example, we might see that our herd is plagued by foot and leg issues, causing us to cull otherwise fertile and productive four and five-year-old females. The American Angus Association reports EPDs for Foot Angle and Claw Set (in both cases, smaller EPD = more favorable phenotypes) that could allow us to more Continued on next page

LAND AUCTION

Saturday, April 23 at Noon Address:1673 1673 State Hwy C • Seymour, MO Directions: From Springfield: Take US Hwy 60 East to Seymour MO.Take 3rd Seymour exit, Hwy C, North out of Seymour 2 miles. Sale is on the left at the farm.

EWING FARMS - 343 ACRES M/L PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE: RICHARD EWING

Farm Preview: Sunday, April 17, 2022 from 1:00 - 4:00 PM For More Information Contact: McKNIGHT AUCTION SERVICE & REALTY, Larry McKnight Auctioneer/Broker - Terry McKnight/Auctioneer 318 Liberty Road • Rogersville, MO 65742 • 417-753-4320 • Cell 417-880-5784 For more detailed listings, pictures and go to www.mcknightauctionservice.com

L.L.C.

Tract 1: 80 acre parcel - very nice hay fields, ponds, building sites, good for hunting, farming or building, secluded, most of the hay field in brome, fields very smooth and nice, road access to Mountain Dale Road.

Tract 2: 24 acre parcel - nice mixture of trees and pasture, secluded, great for hunting, farming, building, etc. Road frontage to Mountain Dale Rd. Tract 3: 20 acre parcel - mostly open with a few trees, great for hunting, farming, building etc. Road frontage to Mountain Dale Road.

Tract 4: 20 acre parcel - almost all open, good hay field or building site, or tillage. Corner parcel with road frontage to Mountain Dale Road and State Hwy C. Tract 5: 40 acre parcel - located right in middle, with plenty of trees and pasture. Great for hunting, building or farming. If sold separately it will have an easement on tract 6 to State Hwy C. Tract 6: 20 acre parcel - all open with plenty of hay and grass, tillable. Great for building or farming. Road frontage to State Hwy C. Tract 7: 20 acre parcel - mainly open with some trees, plenty of grass, tillable with great building spots and small draw. Road frontage to State Hwy C. Tract 8: 80 acre parcel – pasture, woods, water etc. This is the old home place of property with the well, 40’ x 60’ machine shed, 20’ x 30’ shop and other barns. It has a big stocked pond, is secluded, has woods as well as pasture with several great building spots, hunting etc. It has a private drive to State Hwy C. Tract 9: 40 acre parcel - A square 40, mostly open with a few trees, tillable with lots of grass and pasture, ample room for building, with lots of road frontage to State Hwy C.

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April 2022

Proud to be

American

X

800 COMMERCIAL

FEMALES

• 700 Black 3-year-old Fall Bred Cows

X - BAR COMPANY LLC LIVESTOCK SALE$

Friday, April 22, 2022 Burbank, Oklahoma 11:00 AM

200 bred to Express Ranches Angus & 44 Farms Angus Bulls 193 bred to Buford Hereford Bulls 222 bred to Rusty Jamison Ranch Hereford Bulls 88 Black Baldies bred to Calvo Red Angus Bulls

• 30 Adams Ranches “Adams Reds”-

first-calf heifers with fall-born calves at side sired

by Calvo Red Angus Bulls.

• 30 American Red first-calf heifer

(carrying the King Ranch Brand) with calves at side sired by Express Ranches Angus Bulls.

• 45 3 to 5-year-old Black and Black Baldy Cows fall bred to Calvo Black-Hided Red Angus Bulls

• 30 Bulls Angus, Hereford and Red Angus.

Trich-tested negative and semen tested.

X - Bar Co. LLC

RONN CUNNINGHAM (918) 629-9382 CHANCE CUNNINGHAM (918) 497-0344

E: ronn@cj-auctions.com W: www.cj-auctions.com/proudamericansale View more sale information on our website.

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Consultant: Chris Byerly (417) 850-3813

SHANE STIERWALT 246 Graham Rd. Burbank, OK 74633 (918) 688-5774 E: shanexbarco@gmail.com

SALE BROADCAST by...

Continued from previous page accurately identify bulls that will pass down structural soundness to their offspring.

It was pointed out to me by a seedstock producer and friend here in Tennessee that the way we’ve historically talked about these cow-focused traits has missed the mark. For a long time, these were branded as “convenience traits” based on their potential to decrease the labor involved with a given cow. While more convenient cows are undoubtedly nice, it’s clear that fertile, thrifty, sound, docile, and productive cows are central to commercial cow-calf profitability. These female-focused traits have an inherent economic value and are foundational to the success of a commercial herd. As such, we’ve started calling these “foundation traits.”

Each of these traits plays into the overall profitability of a sire’s offspring when a producer retains replacement females.

Balancing these traits while also trying to make genetic progress on other revenue-generating traits (i.e., weaning weight) can be a handful. Each trait contributes to overall profitability to varying degrees. Some of these traits are genetically correlated in favorable (e.g., stayability and structural soundness) and unfavorable (e.g., weaning weight and mature cow weight) ways. Breed associations have worked to develop

economic selection indexes that weight multiple traits by their relative economic importance in a general production system. The result is a single value that can be interpreted as an “EPD for profit” that considers many economically relevant traits. Indexes can be maternal, terminal, or composite-focused. For producers that are marketing calves at weaning and retaining replacement females, maternal indexes are ideal because they place heavy emphasis on cow-focused foundational traits and on maintaining weaning performance. It is important to understand the component traits that make up an index before using it. While I won’t detail individual indexes, I will point out that breed association websites do a great job describing the production scenarios that their indexes are designed for and the traits contained in the index.

Using a maternally-focused index alongside foundational trait EPDs to select bulls can keep your operation focused on selecting for the most important trait: profit! The genetic tools that I’ve discussed here take the guesswork out of selecting bulls that will produce the sort of daughters that will keep our herds profitable and successful for the long term.

Troy Rowan is an Assistant Professor at the University of Tennessee in the Department of Animal Science.

The Cattlemen’s Connection is an online email marketing platform hosted by

Joplin Regional Stockyards. Our mission is to put today’s producers in touch with the

E-blasts

to your phone, tablet or computer!

information and products that will make them profitable for tomorrow.

It’s SIMPLE and EASY to get signed up!

• Fill out the SIGN UP form on the JRS website to subscribe - scan the QR code!

April 2022

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MANAGEMENT MATTERS

Separating Sire Selection for Maternal and Terminal Traits

By Genna VanWye for Cattlemen’s News There are a number of decisions that go into sire selection, with the foundation being breed type, pedigree, phenotype, and genetics. Every operation has different goals and selection criteria, and a bull’s influence on a large subset of the calf crop each year makes these decisions economically significant. It’s not uncommon for us, as producers, to use bulls with “balanced genetic profiles” that theoretically have the ability to produce both replacement heifers and market-targeted calves. However, this management system reduces selection intensity for desired traits. By selecting a sire that is “good enough” for both maternal and terminal traits, are we leaving performance on the table in both categories? One underused management approach is to separate sire selection for the production of maternal versus terminal progeny.

Replacement Heifers Using artificial insemination (AI) technology to produce replacement heifers can be an effective way of applying this management method. AI provides a way to incorporate superior genetics into the herd without the need to invest in highcost sires. AI sires often have greater genetic and phenotypic merit, along with improved EPD accuracy compared to what is available locally. This has a direct effect on AI-sired heifers through their increased genetic merit for relevant maternal traits. Also, with increased accuracy, there are more records to back the EPD profile of the bull, meaning we can be more confident in the reliability of their numbers.

Paired with estrus synchronization, AI provides the opportunity to front-load a calving season. If AI is performed early in the breeding season, replacement heifer candidates will be born early in the calving season and have an age advantage.

This increases the likelihood the heifers will conceive early in their first breeding season, which has implications for their long-term success in the cow herd.

Heifers that conceive early in their first breeding season will calve early in their first calving season and wean an older and heavier calf. Heifers that calve early in the calving season will also have more time to recover before the following breeding season, increasing their likelihood of breeding back. Large datasets collected by Dr. Bob Cushman and colleagues on heifer longevity indicate that these heifers will have increased

reproductive efficiency and lifetime productivity in the cow herd compared to later calving heifers, as heifers that calve in the early portion of their first calving season wean more total calves over their productive lifetime and wean older, heavier calves for the first six years of production. Increased cow longevity means fewer replacement heifers are needed each year, and more mature cows in the herd will increase total pounds of calf weaned.

Terminal Sire Selection Using a system that includes AI will decrease the need for natural service sires, decreasing bull investment and maintenance costs. Using AI to produce maternally-oriented calves as replacement heifer candidates creates another opportunity: we can now select natural service sires with different criteria and a terminal focus. By eliminating the need to select a bull that carries both maternal and terminal traits, an operation can increase selection intensity for terminal traits and improve performance in calves they plan to sell at weaning or retain ownership on. This can improve calf performance in areas of growth and carcass, along with improving calf uniformity. Optimizing terminal traits in the calf crop can increase their value in the marketplace.

Crossbreeding can also be an effective tool in this instance.

When an operation is raising replacement females and marketing terminally-focused calves, selecting females that excel maternally to produce replacement heifers and breeding the remaining cows to a terminal sire of a different breed will increase individual heterosis of those progeny. Paired with thoughtful genetic selection decisions, these advantages can directly impact profitability within a herd.

Sexed Semen Admittedly, in this management system, there will still be steer calves sired by the maternally-focused AI bull. One way to increase the ratio of female-to-male calf progeny out of the AI sire is by using sexed semen. Sex-sorted semen can be used to increase the likelihood an AI-sired calf will be of a certain sex. Although admittedly not every bull is available with sexed semen, this system could be used to increase the number of AI-sired calves that are heifers.

The sorting process used to produce sexed semen can result in somewhat reduced conception rates compared with conventional semen, as well as an increased cost per straw. For best results with sexed semen, use estrus detection aids and/ or monitor heat activity, and only use sexed semen on those females that have expressed estrus by the time of AI.

Mark your calendar...

COW AND BULL SPECIAL SALE

MAY 4, 2022

4:30 PM following regular cow sale NOW TAKING CONSIGNMENTS! CONTACT YOUR LOCAL FIELD REP!

I-44 and Exit 22 I Carthage, Missouri JRS Office 417.548.2333 Skyler Moore 417.737.2615 Bailey Moore 417.540.4343 Jackie Moore 417.825.0948

W W W. J O P L I N S T O C K YA R D S . C O M 30

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Summary Separating sire selection for maternal and terminal traits will help optimize trait-based performance in the cow herd and in market-targeted calves. Selection intensity for each of the sire groups will be improved because fewer compromises are made in selection intensity for desired traits. This allows for targeted breeding decisions that can directly affect profitability. For more information on this management method in crossbreeding systems visit: https://extension.missouri.edu/ publications/g2040.

Genna VanWye is a graduate research assistant at the University of Missouri.

A BRD TREATMENT THAT PUTS IN A 240-HOUR SHIFT. IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION: Do not treat cattle within 35 days of slaughter.

Do not use in female dairy cattle 20 months of age or older, or in calves to be processed for veal. Subcutaneous injection may cause a transient local tissue reaction in some cattle that may result in trim loss of edible tissues at slaughter. NOT FOR USE IN HUMANS. *Clinical relevance has not been determined. **A small percentage of cattle may have already suffered lung damage, and may be too far gone or will require a little longer to turn around. 1 Giguère S, Huang R, Malinski TJ, et al. Disposition of gamithromycin in plasma, pulmonary epithelial lining fluid, bronchoalveloar cells and lung tissue in cattle. Am J Vet Res 2011;72(3):326-330. 2 Sifferman RL, Wolff WA, Holste JE, et al. Field efficacy evaluation of gamithromycin for treatment of bovine respiratory disease in cattle at feedlots. Intern J Appl Res Vet Med 2011;9(2):166-175. 3 ZACTRAN product label.

ZACTRAN® is a registered trademark of the Boehringer Ingelheim Group. ©2021 Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health USA Inc., Duluth, GA. All Rights Reserved. US-BOV-0178-2021-BEEFC

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THAT’S THE POWER OF

MANAGEMENT MATTERS

Livestock as Live Stock

By Jordan Thomas for Cattlemen’s News Many of us have money invested in the market in some form or another. For most of us, those dollars are in retirement accounts or other investments that we don’t actively manage on a day-to-day basis. Some of you may choose to manage your investments more actively, perhaps purchasing single stocks of specific companies that you believe have good fundamentals or are undervalued in the market. I do not do that sort of trading personally, but I understand it has some natural appeal: we think we can pick out investments that will outperform the rest of the market.

The degree to which human overconfidence shapes investing is pretty fascinating. It’s not just single stock investing; the mutual funds in which many of us are invested are a good example of this as well. Mutual funds are essentially collections of diverse investments chosen by professional fund managers. Since the investments are diversified, mutual funds are of course less risky than single stocks. But the idea is still based on concept of someone selecting specific investments that will outperform the rest of the market.

Interestingly though, actively managed funds often actually underperform the market average. What’s worse, because actively managed funds have to cover the expense associated with employing individuals to manage the portfolio, they often offer not only lower actual returns but a higher expense ratio too.

Don’t get too bogged down in the details if investment terminology makes your head hurt. Just pause to consider how wild this is: a team of professional fund managers dedicated to trying to select the most profitable collection of stocks possible often actually picks investments that underperform the market average. All of that careful selection and all of that extra expense, only to wind up with worse returns.

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I sometimes emphasize to students that that familiar word “livestock” is really two words: live stock. These are still stocks, still investments—they just happen to be living, breathing ones. That “live” word makes quite a difference, I realize. But as with any other investment, our goal with this live stock is to generate returns. I have argued in multiple previous articles that we would do well to think of females in the commercial cow herd as an investment portfolio, divesting out of cows that have poor profit potential (i.e., cows that failed to conceive early in the breeding season) and reinvesting that equity in something that offers better return-on-equity potential. In many cases that equity might bring in greater returns for the business if it were invested in something other than replacement females, but let’s set that point aside for a moment. If you are going to develop replacement heifers as investments to replace poorly profitable cows, how do you intend to go about selecting profitable commercial heifers?

Before you go into the weaning pen this year to try to select which heifer calves to develop, stop and think about actively managed mutual funds. Are Continued on next page

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April 2022

Continued from previous page you really confident that, just with your eye and instinct, you can pick out heifers that will outperform the average of your heifer calf crop? I know you can sort off an obvious cull heifer here and there, but can you really pick out the investments—live stock—that are going to outperform the rest? Or, just like those underperforming mutual funds, will you wind up with investments (cows) that generate poorer returns, all while incurring more expenses (heifer development costs) along the way?

If you are raising commercial cattle, there is a strong argument to be made for developing as large of a proportion of your heifer calf crop as possible rather than attempting to select just the right number of replacement heifers at weaning based on their appearance or perceived genetic merit. When we do this—let’s say picking out 15 or so heifer calves to generate replacements for a herd of 100 cows—we lock ourselves into keeping poorly profitable heifers.

Even if all 15 heifers conceive, it simply is not possible for every heifer to conceive in the earliest portion of the breeding season. Some of those heifers will be later-conceiving and therefore less profitable investments, yet we will be stuck with the 15 we picked. What’s worse, because we wanted to ensure that all 15 of those heifers became pregnant, we likely incurred extra expenses (e.g., feed) in the development program.

Poorer returns and higher expenses… doesn’t that sound like the underperforming, actively managed mutual fund?

MEAD FARMS

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What if, for that same example 100-cow www.meadfarms.com herd, we instead developed the majority of the heifer calf crop? Let’s say we Since 1942 developed 35 or so heifer calves, just 21658 Quarry Lane • Barnett, MO 65011 as an example. Even with a pretty poor Office (573) 302-7011 • Fax (573) 348-8325 breed-up in those heifers and a lower email: meadangus@yahoo.com input nutritional development program, Alan Mead, Owner (573) 216-0210 it is not at all unreasonable to think we Jennifer Russell (573) 721-5512 could generate more than 15 early-conScott Wall (309) 212-5450 ceiving heifers from which to select replacements. Ironically, by not trying Mead_Joplin_MayAd.indd 1 3/16/22 3:03 PM to actively select the best ones at weanactively managed mutual funds. One of my favorite quotes ing, we might wind up with greater returns. And if we conabout the late John Bogle, founder of The Vanguard Group trolled the cost of the development program and/or developed and an influential thought-leader in this humbler style of a strong market for bred heifers, we likely can profit on those investing, is that he was “all cattle and not very much hat.” other non-retained heifers as either feeder calves or marketed Are you after the bragging rights of having a good eye for bred heifers. For the data that supports this kind of selection selecting livestock? Or do you want to be in the commercial strategy, see the University of Missouri Extension publications live stock business instead? If the latter, it might be time to Selection of Replacement Heifers for Commercial Beef Cattle rethink how you select and develop commercial replacement Operations (www.extension.missouri.edu/g2028) and Nutritionheifers. al Management of Developing Heifers: Intensive Versus Extensive Systems (www.extension.missouri.edu/g2091).

Jordan Thomas, a Ph.D., is the state cow-calf Extension specialist with the University of Missouri. Contact him at 573-882-1804 or thomasjor@missouri.edu.

There is some wisdom in realizing our intuition and eye will not always lead us toward the highest returns. If you have followed investing trends over the last couple of decades, you know that investors are now more likely to turn to index funds—lower-expense, passively managed funds that simply Contact Mark Harmon markh@joplinstockyards.com 417-316-0101 track an overall market index like the S&P 500—rather than

MEAD FARMS

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April 2022

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MANAGEMENT MATTERS

Minerals Matter to Optimize Herd Performance

By Samantha Athey for Cattlemen’s News Many of us take a multivitamin without a second thought as part of our daily routines to stay healthy, but what if a vitamin and mineral supplement is the next step to optimizing the reproductive performance of your cattle herd?

“There are some minerals that, if deficient, may lead to cattle reproductive issues,” Davis continued. “These minerals include calcium, phosphorus, copper, selenium, zinc and manganese.”

“When it comes to cattle reproductive performance, energy and protein are the most important nutrients,” said Patrick Davis, livestock specialist for University of Missouri Extension.

“Basically, what I’m saying is if these nutrients are not met and the animal is not in the proper energy balance, it won’t matter what kind of mineral you provide – cattle reproduction will suffer.”

Deficiencies in calcium and phosphorus may decrease milk production, and low levels of phosphorus can delay puberty in heifers and delay mature cows from coming into heat, according to UGA Extension.

According to University of Georgia (UGA) Extension’s ‘Mineral Supplements for Beef Cattle,’ “Since high-quality forages and/ or grains can furnish a large portion of the required minerals, producers should select supplements that will meet animal requirements and avoid excesses that reduce profits and lead to unnecessary mineral excretion.”

Davis added excessive mineral supplementation will not improve reproductive rates in cattle herds and can be toxic in some situations.

“If you provide free-choice access to a proper complete mineral, trace mineral and vitamin supplement year-round, that should fulfill mineral requirements,” he said. “Therefore, you should not be seeing cattle reproduction issues due to deficiencies in minerals and vitamins.”

Glenn Selk, Oklahoma State University Extension emeritus animal scientist said in an episode of the Cow-Calf Corner, “It’s important we take time to monitor how much mineral our cattle are consuming so that we can make adjustments if they’re not consuming enough of the mineral that we’re putting out.”

Selk recommended average mineral consumption levels of 2 to 3 ounces per head, per day. If consumption levels are not enough, he suggested adding a flavoring agent, such as cottonseed or soybean meal, to encourage a higher intake.

Davis recommended cattle producers visit with their local feed dealers, explain their cattle feeding programs, and work with them to create a supplement program designed to help the operation be successful.

Davis added a calcium deficiency during pregnancy can cause poor fetal bone growth and during early lactation can increase the risk of milk fever.

“Cattle may excessively consume trace minerals molybdenum and sulfur due to feeding practices or area of the country they are grazing,” Davis said. “This excess consumption may cause a copper deficiency, which can negatively impact reproductive performance.”

Specifically, he said copper deficiency may result in a reduction of first-service conception rates, alter embryonic survival during embryo transfer, and reduce overall pregnancy rates.

The impact of this deficiency can be variable from minimal to drastic. A copper deficiency also can cause cows to show signs of estrus without ovulation and negatively impact future cycles.

“Manganese-deficiency symptoms included reduced fertility in cows and crooked calf syndrome,” Davis said, explaining crooked calf syndrome results in calves with weak legs and swollen joints.

Davis continued, too-low levels of selenium can cause retained placentas and negatively impact postpartum intervals and pregnancy rates in cows while a zinc deficiency can prevent proper testicular development in bulls and ovarian function in heifers and cows.

If cattle producers suspect a mineral deficiency, Davis recommended consulting with a veterinarian to pinpoint the deficiency through testing and then working with a feed dealer to adjust their mineral programs accordingly.

Advertise your business, sale or upcoming event on our Facebook page!

Contact Mark Harmon today to place your advertisement markh@joplinstockyards.com

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MANAGEMENT MATTERS

Cattle De-Worming Issues and Solutions

By Jessica Allan for Cattlemen’s News It has been well known for several years now that de-wormers in sheep and goats have been losing effectiveness through over-use. Now, we are starting to see the same issue starting to pop up in our cattle herds as well. Not only does this have an effect on our cattle herd’s health and production, but also on our pocketbooks, to the tune of upwards of $2 billion a year by some estimates.

ing a program. Bailey cautions against waiting to de-worm your cattle herd until after you have confirmed the parasite load with a FECRT. While this is a strategy that can be used to combat resistance in parasites, it is less practical that treating before and after a FECRT. Once you see evidence of parasites, the damage has been done, both to the cattle and to your pastures.

It is a vicious cycle. As we producers use products to stop the parasite cycle in its tracks, often we are contributing to it by overuse of one product or another. Repeated and frequent use of a single product on a herd will select for a population of parasites that are resistant to the compound use, says Eric Bailey with University of Missouri Extension.

If re-evaluation is needed, the first thing to check is dosing.

Under-dosing, or not giving the correct dose as noted on the de-wormer, can lead to resistance. The manufacturers of the products you are using have put the time and effort into research and development of their products for a reason, and the using the correct recommended dosage will have the most efficient effect in your de-worming program.

There are three classes of de-worming products approved by the FDA for cattle use in the United States: benzimidazoles, endectocides or macrocyclic lactones and imidazothiazoles.

The two most commonly used are the first two. Drugs ending in -ZOLE are benzimidazoles and drugs ending in -ECTIN are macrocyclic lactones.

Bailey recommends evaluating the impact of your current treatment program as a first step. This can be done by contacting your veterinarian to do a fecal egg count reduction test (FECRT). The veterinarian will collect fecal samples before deworming and two weeks after treatment (20 samples is recommended for an accurate count). If there is a 90% reduction in parasites in the post-treatment sample, all is good and your treatment program is working. If the reduction is less than 90%, it is time re-evaluate your program, says Bailey.

Secondly, don’t wait until you see parasites before implement-

Another strategy Bailey recommends is only de-worming your younger cattle. Younger cattle are less tolerant of parasite loads than older cattle, and if cost is deterring factor, this might be strategy that could work for your operation.

Switching classes of de-wormers to break the resistance cycle is also recommended, as is using two classes of drugs with different modes of action at the same time. In the second case, assuming you are using de-wormers that act differently on the parasites, what one de-wormer doesn’t take care of, the other one should.

Other practices like using isolation pens for new animals and pasture rotation can also be of use in a de-worming program.

Not only are these best practices for the health of the operation as a whole, but they can also be used to break the cycle. Treating animals new to the operation and ensuring they are clean of parasites before introducing them to the rest of the herd can help reduce the introduction or re-introduction of parasites to the herd. Pasture rotation not only improves the quality of the grazing ground in an operation, but it can also be used as a non-pharmaceutical practice to manage parasites. As pastures rest from grazing, the parasite load on the ground is not being built up by cattle remaining on the same ground.

Thank You.... to all our customers, family and friends for another successful sale!

Age Advantage Sim/Angus and Angus bulls available private treaty Mark your calendar for our fall sale the first Saturday in November!

For more information, call: Moriondo Farms • MM Cattle Co. Mark Moriondo 417-366-1249 Nathan Arnold – Ranch Manager 918-373-2410 Go to Innovation Ag Marketing for sale updates!

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All in all, the key to a successful parasite control program is efficacy. If what you are doing with your herd now is working, that’s great. If you are not seeing any reduction in parasites or improvement in herd health, it’s time to re-evaluate. But, when re-evaluating, don’t throw everything you are doing now out the window. Improve your program, don’t just change it.

Jessica Allan is a commercial and agricultural relationship manager and lender with Guaranty Bank in Carthage and Neosho, MO. She and her husband live in Jasper County and maintain a cattle herd with her parents in Newton County.

TRENDING NOW Letting Our Lights Shine Advocating for Agriculture

By Katie Moore “This little light of mine, I’m going to let it shine.” According to Missouri FFA’s first state vice president, Abigail Miller, “If we all shine our own little lights, the world becomes brighter.” (Moore, K., 2021).

When we shine our lights for the agriculture industry, our industry becomes brighter and draws more people to it. Whether we realize it or not, we have all let our lights shine for something at one point or another. It could be wearing a t-shirt for a sports team or walking in a protest, it all depends on your life and what you do. Being raised on a farm, I’ve always shined my light for the agriculture industry. In high school, I naturally gravitated towards agriculture classes and the FFA organization. I quickly became immersed in public speaking and holding official positions. Anytime I’m asked what I’m involved in, I give an entire spiel about the FFA organization and what I do within it.

In order to shine your light to the full potential, agvocates need to focus on the truth behind the industry along with keeping people interested in their content. If someone, in real life or online, starts spreading false information about the agriculture industry, you have a great opportunity to share the actual truth and teach people more about the industry. When addressing misinformation, you have to be careful to make sure you answer with facts and not your opinion or a displeasing outburst. Another great way to agvocate is using personal stories. When people hear stories that they can possibly relate to, they’re more inclined to listen and take an interest in whatever subject your story relates to, of course in this case the ag industry (Germann, D., 2016).

The most obvious way to let your light shine is to be involved in agricultural studies. An agricultural instructor teaches students about agricultural procedures, natural resources, and the food industry. On top of that, they also teach about dairy, animal, and plant science, as well as farming and the business side of the entire agriculture industry (Agricultural Teacher, 2021). Most teachers at any school are well known in the community and they advocate for whatever subject they teach. So naturally, the agriculture teachers advocate for the agriculture industry. My agriculture teacher, Leslie Appleton, is well known in our small community of Cabool for doing what she does best, teaching ag. Our FFA chapter has done many community service projects around our town like picking up trash along the highway, helping at the local SOS location, and helping run benefits, just to name a few. We all enjoy doing these projects and we love to educate people about FFA and the agriculture industry. Our community becomes aware of our chapter and helps us agvocate as well.

Another great way to keep shining your light is to become a state or national FFA officer. Any FFA officer at any level is expected to serve their organization and motivate and inspire other members within the organization. State and national officers are both held to that expectation but on an even higher level. When you’re at that level, you have to inspire all members across your state or the nation (National FFA Officers, 2021). These elite members of our FFA organization are expected to travel across their state or the country, advocating for FFA and the agriculture industry. Most of these officers are just into their first year in the real world, but they have dedicated that first year to helping spread the word about the agriculture industry. There’s no better example of letting our lights shine than these officer teams.

Recently, I interviewed former Missouri FFA State Secretary, Alexandra Gast. My main question to her was how does she agvocate. She told me that holding her former office position, she advocated for agriculture and agriculture education without even trying. She also noted that during the COVID-19 pandemic, more and more consumers were looking to buy directly from a farmer versus going to the store and in that way she was able to agvocate by simply selling a product off her farm. Her favorite way to agvocate is to strike up conversations about agriculture with complete strangers. Her favorite agvocating story is when she was flying to Texas and flew over a sod farm. As they flew over it, she mentioned that it was a 38

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I am Katie Moore from the Cabool FFA Chapter nestled in the Area XIII FFA. I’m currently serving as my chapter president and area reporter. I compete mainly in speaking contests and enjoy writing speeches. My most recent one is about advocating for agriculture. Recently my chapter visited the Joplin Regional Stockyards and while we were there, Mark Harmon, was telling us a bit about how us agriculturists need to share our story better. When he said that, it got me thinking, why not share my speech with more people? So here is my speech, Letting our Lights Shine - Advocating for Agriculture. sod farm and the lady sitting beside her was in awe at the fact that she was able to identify that from 42,000 feet in the air. That led her to her next point: you have a chance to agvocate every single day by striking up organic conversations about our industry with strangers. She also said that being involved in things like FFA, agriculture education, and your local cattlemen’s association is also a great way to agvocate. She also agvocates through her social media accounts.

Many of her posts and shared posts mention the agriculture industry and with her huge following she’s able to connect with people in today’s most popular way (Moore, K., 2021).

To gain another perspective on agvocating, I interviewed Abigail Miller, the 2021 to 2022 Missouri FFA first state vice president. Ms. Miller had a much different perspective on agvocating than Ms. Gast as she only just graduated in May of last year. She told me she recently had a huge opportunity to agvocate in one of her college classes. The class had around 75 students and within those students, half of them had probably never seen a cow in real life. She realized the opportunity she had in front of her to teach them and did so through a cattle working lab. She explained to them why we have to vaccinate cows and that vaccines are out of the meat before slaughter time. Going to college gave her an entire new community to teach about the agriculture industry. I also asked her how to effectively agvocate. Being positive is a huge thing but the most important thing is speaking the truth about our industry. When advocating, you can’t scare people away but you can’t back down.

No matter how much you agvocate, there will always be minds that can’t be changed. As we were closing our interview, Ms. Miller said something that really stuck with me: “If we all shine our own little lights, the world becomes brighter.” (Moore, K., 2021) Jamie Johansen, one of Missouri’s most influential agvocates and co-owner of Honey Creek Media, recently spoke at the Area Thirteen FFA leadership conference. Like Ms. Gast, she told us we have a chance to agvocate every single day but focused more on social media, which is today’s most popular way of advocating for anything. (Johansen, J., 2021) I personally do this. I’ve created a separate Instagram account strictly for agvocating. However, you don’t have to create an entire new page to agvocate. You can still agvocate off of personal accounts by addressing false information and using hashtags like #SpeakAg or #AGvocate. My generation and generations after me are growing up with social media as a normal thing, it’s time we use it to its full potential. (Patsche, W., 2018) Whether we realize it or not, we all know how to advocate and we all have advocated for something. Through social media, officer positions, and striking up conversations we have a chance to shine our lights every single day. In our industry, our light is growing dim.

If we don’t agvocate and spread the word about the agriculture industry, our world will spiral into hunger and darkness.

Bibliography Germann, D. (2016, October 23). FFA: Seven Ways To Be An Ag Advocate. Farms.com.

Retrieved October 7, 2021, from https://www.farms.com/news/ffa-seven-ways-to-be-anag-advocate-114550.aspx.

Johansen, J. (2021, September). Branding Yourself. Area 13 FFA Leadership Conference. Mountain Grove; Missouri.

Learn.org Staff. (2021). Agricultural Teacher. Learn.org . Retrieved October 7, 2021, from https://learn.org/directory/category/School_Administration/Teacher_Education_ for_Specific_Subjects/Agricultural_Teacher.html.

Moore, K. J. (2021, September 28). How did you Agvocate after Graduation? personal.

Moore, K. J. (2021, September 30). How did you Agvocate after Graduation? personal.

National FFA. (2021). National FFA Officers . FFA.org . Retrieved October 7, 2021, from https://www.ffa.org/national-ffa-officers/.

Patsche, W. (2015, October 14). Top 5 Ways Young People Can Become Ag Advocates.

Minnesota Farm Living. Retrieved October 7, 2021, from http://www.mnfarmliving. com/2015/10/top-5-ways-young-people-can-become-ag-advocates.html.

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INDUSTRY NEWS

Update from the Southwest Research, Extension and Education Center (SW-REEC) Chris Daubert, Dean of the College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources (CAFNR) at the University of Missouri (MU), recently announced to the Advisory Board of the newly reorganized Southwest Research, Extension and Education Center (SW-REEC) near Mount Vernon, MO, that a new faculty position will soon be added to the research center. This new position is a strong indication of the commitment MU has for the livestock industry, and particularly to cattle producers in the southwest part of the state.

continue to be addressed as these topics are core to the success of Southwest Missouri farmers.

In other news at the Center, preparations are underway for a probiotic research project. Dr. Eric Bailey, MU State Livestock Nutrition Specialist, is working with a private company who is funding the project to determine if an additive will result in a greater rate gain per head. This is an immense project that includes 240 calves that will be delivered unweaned and brought to the Center by a third party. To ensure good statistical data, this project will be replicated twelve times with equal numbers of calves in each paddock.

“It has been a goal of CAFNR and the advisory board to add an animal science position to the SW-REEC the last several years,” says Jay Chism, the new director of MU’s Southwest Research, Extension and Education Center.

“It’s much different than raising calves on a normal farm,” says Chism. “Everything has to be replicated because we want to make sure all animals are treated the same in order to remove as many variables as possible.”

It takes faculty to initiate research projects that lead to cutting edge technology in any field. The livestock business is no different. The SW-REEC is located in the heart of Missouri cowcalf country, therefore adding a new animal science position at the agricultural station is paramount to ensure the latest ideas and technologies are on display for area cattle producers.

Fencing and cross-fencing is underway, and the farm crew is working to set up handling pens so all goes well when the calves arrive. Pasture fertility is being added, and waterers and feed bunks will soon be in each location.

Along with this new faculty position, there is a need for an improved beef research handling facility at the SW-REEC. A new faculty position increases the urgency to have facilities to allow for more efficient artificial insemination (AI) work, as well as having the availability to host groups for demonstration and education purposes.

Forages will continue to be an important research topic into the future at the SW-REEC, as livestock production is based on maximizing forage utilization. As funds allow, fescue toxicity, fertilizer types and application, and forage variety trials will

In another part of the farm, a small organic project was started last fall that involved cereal rye as a cover crop. The rye will be grazed in this demonstration project prior to planting soybeans in late April or early May. “If the weather allows, we would like to plant soybeans as early as possible to get a jump on the weeds for this project,” according to Andy Thomas, Assistant Research Professor at the Center.

Funding for this project comes from a federal grant to look at the potential of organic crops in a tilled and no-till environment. The project involves several sites in multiple states, but the SW-REEC is the only site where a grazing component starting at 6 AM will be added.

Join us weekdays through 3 PM for all your AG News, with Sports updates before and after.

Listen to AM 990 or Stream 24/7 on Apple & Google Play for featured programming!

KRMO DAILY SCHEDULE:

Plus important updates throughout the day from:

9:00 AM – Adams on Agriculture 10:00 AM – AgriTalk

American Ag Network – Updates throughout the day

11:00 AM – Sports Rewind with Sammy Clapper, Weekdays 12:00 Noon, Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays – Farming in the 4 States with Sammy Clapper

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1:00 PM – Agriculture Today Updates 2:00 PM – AgriTalk After the Bell with Chip Flory Midnight to 6 AM and 3 PM to Midnight – Sportsmap Radio Network

WeatherEye – 2-3X/hour – 24 hours/day/7 days a week

“In every staff meeting, we discuss our role at the SW-REEC is to ‘focus on the present, while anticipating the future,” says Chism.“We’re focusing on the projects at hand, but adding a new animal science researcher to the Center helps us look toward a positive future even more than normal.”

“It’s what we have been hoping for and working toward for several years.”

STAY CONNECTED To learn more about Joplin Regional Stockyards, visit www.joplinstockyards.com Follow us on Facebook Joplin Regional Stockyards

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IT’S ALL ABOUT BALANCE. CONTROL AND TREAT BRD WITH LASTING CONFIDENCE. Balance your BRD protocol and budget with Increxxa (tulathromycin injection) ™

featuring tulathromycin, the macrolide antibiotic you can trust to help your cattle breathe easier by fighting BRD. The addition of Increxxa to the extensive Elanco cattle portfolio provides yet another way to help combat BRD and help optimize herd health, efficiency and profit. As with all Elanco products, you can breathe easier knowing Increxxa is held to the company's uncompromising standards for potency, uniformity and quality.

Indication: Beef and Non-Lactating Dairy Cattle: Treatment of bovine respiratory disease (BRD) and control of respiratory disease in cattle at high risk of developing BRD associated with M. haemolytica, P. multocida, H. somni and M. bovis.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION (ISI) Not for human use. Keep out of reach of children. Do not use in animals previously found to be hypersensitive to the drug. Increxxa has a pre-slaughter withdrawal time of 18 days. Do not use in female dairy cattle 20 months of age or older.

FULL PRESCRIBING INFORMATION FOR USE IN CATTLE ONLY

(tulathromycin injection) Injectable Solution

Antibiotic 100 mg of tulathromycin/mL For use in beef cattle (including suckling calves), non-lactating dairy cattle (including dairy calves), veal calves, and swine. Not for use in female dairy cattle 20 months of age or older.

CAUTION: Federal (USA) law restricts this drug to use by or on the order of a licensed veterinarian. Before using Increxxa, please consult the product insert, a summary of which follows: INDICATIONS Beef and Non-Lactating Dairy Cattle BRD – Increxxa Injectable Solution is indicated for the treatment of bovine respiratory disease (BRD) associated with Mannheimia haemolytica, Pasteurella multocida, Histophilus somni, and Mycoplasma bovis; and for the control of respiratory disease in cattle at high risk of developing BRD associated with Mannheimia haemolytica, Pasteurella multocida, Histophilus somni, and Mycoplasma bovis.

IBK – Increxxa Injectable Solution is indicated for the treatment of infectious bovine keratoconjunctivitis (IBK) associated with Moraxella bovis.

Foot Rot – Increxxa Injectable Solution is indicated for the treatment of bovine foot rot (interdigital necrobacillosis) associated with Fusobacterium necrophorum and Porphyromonas levii.

Suckling Calves, Dairy Calves, and Veal Calves BRD – Increxxa Injectable Solution is indicated for the treatment of BRD associated with M. haemolytica, P. multocida, H. somni, and M. bovis.

DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION Cattle Inject subcutaneously as a single dose in the neck at a dosage of 2.5 mg/kg (1.1 mL/100 lb) body weight (BW). Do not inject more than 10 mL per injection site.

Table 1. Increxxa Cattle Dosing Guide Animal Weight (Pounds)

Dose Volume (mL)

100

1.1

200

2.3

300

3.4

400

4.5

500

5.7

600

6.8

700

8.0

800

9.1

900

10.2

1000

11.4

See product insert for complete dosing and administration information.

CONTRAINDICATIONS The use of Increxxa Injectable Solution is contraindicated in animals previously found to be hypersensitive to the drug.

WARNINGS FOR USE IN ANIMALS ONLY. NOT FOR HUMAN USE. KEEP OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN. NOT FOR USE IN CHICKENS OR TURKEYS. RESIDUE WARNINGS Cattle Cattle intended for human consumption must not be slaughtered within 18 days from the last treatment. This drug is not approved for use in female dairy cattle 20 months of age or older, including dry dairy cows. Use in these cattle may cause drug residues in milk and/or in calves born to these cows.

PRECAUTIONS Cattle The effects of Increxxa on bovine reproductive performance, pregnancy, and lactation have not been determined. Subcutaneous injection can cause a transient local tissue reaction that may result in trim loss of edible tissue at slaughter.

ADVERSE REACTIONS Cattle In one BRD field study, two calves treated with tulathromycin injection at 2.5 mg/kg BW exhibited transient hypersalivation. One of these calves also exhibited transient dyspnea, which may have been related to pneumonia.

STORAGE CONDITIONS Store below 25°C (77°F), with excursions up to 40°C (104°F).

100 mL: Use within 2 months of first puncture and puncture a maximum of 67 times. If more than 67 punctures are anticipated, the use of multi-dosing equipment is recommended. When using a draw-off spike or needle with bore diameter larger than 16 gauge, discard any product remaining in the vial immediately after use. 250 mL and 500 mL: Use within 2 months of first puncture and puncture a maximum of 100 times. If more than 100 punctures are anticipated, the use of multi-dosing equipment is recommended. When using a draw-off spike or needle with bore diameter larger than 16 gauge, discard any product remaining in the vial immediately after use.

HOW SUPPLIED Increxxa (tulathromycin injection) Injectable Solution is available in the following package sizes: 100 mL vial 250 mL vial 500 mL vial To report suspected adverse drug events, for technical assistance or to obtain a copy of the Safety Data Sheet, contact Elanco at 1-800-422-9874. For additional information about adverse drug experience reporting for animal drugs, contact FDA at 1-888-FDA-VETS or http://www.fda.gov/reportanimalae. Approved by FDA under ANADA # 200-666 Product of China.

Manufactured by: Elanco US Inc, Shawnee, KS 66216 Increxxa, Elanco and the diagonal bar logo are trademarks of Elanco or its affiliates. ©2021 Elanco. PM-US-21-0268 February, 2021

Increxxa, Elanco and the diagonal bar logo are trademarks of Elanco or its affiliates. ©2022 Elanco. PM-US-21-0268

INDUSTRY NEWS

Show-Me Select Preview risk associated with calving out heifers as is humanly possible.”

This quote plays to one of the main goals of the Show-Me-Select program—developing a reliable source of quality replacement females.

A meeting of consignors for the Southwest Show-Me-Select Replacement Heifer Sale reveals approximately 250 head are expected to sell on Friday, May 20, 2022 at Joplin Regional Stockyards. The lineup includes predominantly Angus and Angus Hereford cross, black and black-baldie heifers, a few carrying a touch of eared influence. Most heifers will be bred to Angus bulls, half or over having been exposed to at least one round of AI. Several will carry some Simmental influence as well. The Callison family at Fire Sweep Ranch is bringing a nice set of registered Simmental/SimAngus heifers. Dale Kunkel will have a handful of Red Angus based heifers that have been a popular seller the last several sales. Mast Farms and Robert Miller will each have a handful of Gelbvieh influenced heifers.

The Show-Me-Select program has outlined a protocol for heifer development to give buyers the best opportunity for a sound investment. Prebreeding exams that evaluate a heifer’s reproductive maturity and pelvic area establish that only heifers that are likely to breed and calve early in the season and unassisted make the Show Me Select cut. That has been the foundation of the program since its inception. Beyond the prebreeding exam, all heifers are bred to bulls that meet rigorous calving ease requirements, putting them towards the top of their respective breeds for CED EPD’s, keeping dystocia issues to a minimum. The benefits of the program live on after the sale; these heifers are backed by a guarantee to remain bred for at least 30 days after the sale, with a history of consigners going well beyond that to make things right if a previously unidentified problem arises.

Heifers are looked over with a fine-toothed comb several times, weeding out heifers that have bad eyes or feet, frozen ears or tails, and attitude issues. All heifers come with a negative BVD-PI test behind them as well.

Projected calving dates put these heifers to have calves hitting the ground starting in late August and must calve by December 1st.

Andy McCorkill quotes the testimony of longtime buyer, Jerry Crownover: “The worst Show-Me-Select Heifer is a better buy than the best common sale heifer because of the rigorous protocol that each heifer goes through to weed out as much of the

SHOW-ME-SELECT

TM

REPLACEMENT HEIFER SALE 250 Crossbred & Purebred Heifers May 20, 2022 at 7 PM Joplin Regional Stockyards

I-44 East of Carthage, MO at Exit 22

Video preview and sale may be viewed at www.joplinstockyards.com On-line bidding and approval must be arranged in advance along with bank approval. ü To create an account go to www.joplinstockyards click on Live Auction then register and fill out banking information. At least 2 days prior to sale. ü Any questions and/or approval call 417-548-2333 and ask for Dustin, Misti, or Clay.

Breeds & crosses include: Herefords, Angus, Gelbvieh, Red Angus, Balancer, SimAngus.

About 40% are black, 30% are black whiteface, 30% are red.

Many are synchronized and AI bred. A few Tier Two and Show-Me-Plus heifers are in the offering. See enclosed requirements for SMS heifer details.

Program Requirements: v Heifers have met minimum standards for reproductive soundness, pelvic size, body condition and weight and are free of blemishes. v Heifers bred to bulls meeting strict calving ease or birth weight EPD requirements. v A strict immunization program has been followed including official Brucellosis calfhood vaccination.

Heifers are tested and found negative for PI BVD. v Heifers will calve from late August to November 30 and were preg checked within 30 days of the sale.

Aspen Ridge, LLC, Carthage J & J Farms, Sarcoxie Robert Miller, Aurora John Wheeler, Marionville Kathy Wheeler, Marionville Kunkel Farms, Neosho For information contact:

2022 Consignors Include:

Mast Farms, Lamar Meadowlyn Farms, Cassville Rector Farms, Rogersville Fire Sweep Simmentals, Verona Nolan Kleiboeker Farm LLC, Wentworth

David & Danise Cummings, Sarcoxie Ronnie & Debbie Choate, Pleasant Hope Hunter Lane Cattle Co., Pierce City

Eldon Cole (417) 466-3102 or email colee@missouri.edu

Sponsored by: Missouri “Show-Me-Select” Replacement Heifers, Inc., Division of Animal Sciences, Southwest Missouri Beef Cattle Improvement Association in cooperation with University of Missouri Extension, College of Veterinary Medicine, Missouri Cattlemen's Association and Missouri Department of Agriculture.

For more information, please visit: https://extension.missouri.edu/programs/show-me-select-replacement-heifer-program

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Not part of the requirements, but certainly a bonus feature, many of the heifers enrolled in the program are Missouri natives, acclimated to the weather and forage opportunities. Most of them have seen tall fescue, so we can take comfort in knowing they were raised in an environment that we will expect them to perform in as cows.

Moderate cull cow prices can soften the blow of an investment in replacement heifers. When looking at the current market values, with good slaughter cows averaging upwards of 80 cents, selling an older cow that isn’t meeting profitability criteria might get you well over halfway into buying her top end replacement. That’s a move worth considering. Although retaining and developing your own heifers carries with it a sense of pride and accomplishment, the dollar figures often show that buying replacements is the more cost-effective option. Unconsidered costs, such as the extra feed resources and time without a paycheck between weaning a heifer and selling her first calf play into the costs.

These heifers have already had all the money spent getting them ready, all the I’s dotted and T’s crossed and are nearing calving; you take a lot of that cost out of the equation.

Come check out the opportunity to upgrade or expand your inventory with bred heifers that have been through the ringer and qualify for the nations gold standard in heifer development as proof by their golden ear tag: Show-Me-Select.

Sale starts at 7:00 PM on Friday, May 20, 2022.

Contributors: Andy McCorkill, MU Extension Livestock Specialist, Patrick Davis, MU Extension Livestock Specialist and Erin Larimore, Show-Me-Select.

MANAGEMENT MATTERS

Marketing Fall Born Calves

By Eric Bailey for Cattlemen’s News Weaning season is fast approaching for fall born calves. Over 57% of calves in this country are weaned on the trailer destined for a sale barn. While this management system is valued for its simplicity, you may be leaving dollars on the table for your operation and are certainly creating headaches for the next person who will own your unweaned, stressed calves. No way of avoiding the feed cost side of things this year. Knowing your cost of gain numbers will be crucial to success in marketing fall born calves this spring.

A poor outcome for weaning and backgrounding your calves before sale is to invest in feed that will cost >$15/CWT and then calves only gain a pound a day.

I would not keep calves after weaning if I cannot put about 100 lb on each calf in 60 days. Free choice fescue hay and a couple of pounds per day in supplement will not get the calves to gain enough. In general, I like to feed calves at least one percent of their body weight per day in supplement, because most commodity feeds have twice as much energy per lb than common fescue hay. My goal is to dilute the amount of hay in the diet because it has the least nutrients. Ideally, you would make a total mixed ration, but that is not practical for smaller operators. High-quality forage is an option as well, but the cost per unit of energy (total digestible nutrients; TDN) is can be greater for high-quality forage than it is for commodity feeds.

What if you have access to a 14% crude protein commodity mix that costs $15/ CWT? Will that pencil? Assume that you are feeding 6 lb per day and calves gain 1.5 lb per day over 60 days (90 lb). Your cost of feed is $0.90 per head per day and your gain is worth $1 per lb. Calves have freechoice access to hay, which costs $0.035 per lb ($35 per 1,000 lb bale) and they use 12 lb of hay per day ($0.42 per head per day in hay). Your total feed cost is $1.26 (feed plus hay) and the revenue is $1.50. Over 60 days, calves become worth an additional $90 and you send $75.60 in feed. If you have access to cheaper (or more nutrient-dense feed), then backgrounding calves may be financially feasible. If not, you’re better off selling calves at weaning.

I like to supplement weaned calves with a 50:50 blend of corn and dried distillers grains (DDGS). It has more energy and protein than a standard commodity mix.

The challenge is storage. This mix may not flow well out of upright feed bins. The corn:DDGS mix supplemented at 1% of body weight along with common fescue hay should produce 2 lb ADG. You could go to 60% corn, 40% DDGS in the mix and get acceptable performance, but below 40% DDGS, then the cattle need more protein.

As you do your calculations, expect that calves will gain 1 lb for every six lb of commodity fed. Use your pricing for feed and

I encourage you to calculate the value of gain based on the sale barn you typically sell at. Do this by calculating the value of the calf at weaning and the value of a calf that weighs 100 lb more.

The difference between the two is the value of gain. During the fall, the value of gain on lighter calves is often significant, meaning the market is trying to incentivize you to put additional weight on calves. The glass-half-empty view is that everyone is selling weaned calves at that time and this drops the price.

Either way, weaning calves at home for 60 days can be a profitable endeavor, if you are willing to feed them to gain at least 1.5 lb per day.

I put together a YouTube video last year on feeding programs for growing calves. It goes into more depth about my recommendations for feeding calves https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=OKs8v-LWnJc. I hope it can be of use to you as you are making weaning decisions this spring.

Eric Bailey is the State Extension Beef Nutrition Specialist for the University of Missouri.

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Visit us at I-44 & Exit 22 Carthage, Missouri 64836

Cody & Jocelyn Washam Wentworth, MO 417-489-5450 Cody Cell cwhsangus@hotmail.com info@widerangebovine.com www.widerangebovine.com Authorized Independent ABS Representative Certified A.I. Technician

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Cattle Receiving Stations Tan is 7505c (0c, 70m, 30y, 55k) Red is Pantone 186 (0c,100m, 81y, 4k) Joplin Regional is Knomen Stockyards is Playbill Tagline is BaskertonSW-Italic

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FIND ONE NEAR YOU!

ARKANSAS Billy Ray Mainer Branch, AR 479.518.6931

MISSOURI Jared Beaird Ellsinore, MO 573.776.4712

JR Smith Sage & Salem, AR 870.373.1150

Kenneth & Mary Ann Friese Friedheim, MO 573.225.7932

OKLAHOMA Chester Palmer Miami, OK M) 918.540.4929 H) 918.542.6801 LOUISIANA James Kennedy: DeRidder, LA 337.274.7406

J.W. Henson / Rick Aspegren Conway, MO J.W. 417.343.9488 Rick 417.547.2098 Alvie Sartin Seymour, MO 417.840.3272

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