May 2021 - Missouri Beef Cattleman by Missouri Cattlemen's Association

CONTENTS

May 2021

FEATURES 22

What to Know About Weak Calf Syndrome

Identify the Symptoms, Rid the Causes and Take Reparative Action to Keep Calves Strong

Lessons From the Farm

Getting Ahead of the Summer Flies

Agriculture Resources Mean Less Guilt and More Growth for Farm Families

Make a Plan for Controlling Fly Populations in Your Herd

MEMBER NEWS 6 Association Update 16 Beef Checkoff News 34 County News

Lessons From the Farm

COLUMNS 8

What to Know About Weak Calf Syndrome

MCA President’s Perspective Your Bucket

CattleWomen’s Corner

Straight Talk: Mike Deering

What’s Cooking at the Beef House

Junior Spotlight

Happy Mother’s Day

Mind Your Own Business

Thank You Beef House Team

Get Involved with MJCA Today!

On the Edge of Common Sense: Baxter Black

MAY 2021

Cowhide on the Soles of His Boots

Capitol Update Politically Speaking

The Missouri Beef Cattleman is an official publication of the Missouri Cattlemen’s Association.

MISSOURI

BEEF CATTLEMAN

OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE MISSOURI CATTLEMEN’S ASSOCIATION

Volume 50 - Issue 5 (USPS 890-240 • ISSN 0192-3056) Magazine Publishing Office 2306 Bluff Creek Drive, #100, Columbia, MO 65201 Phone: 573-499-9162 • Fax: 573-499-9167 Andy Atzenweiler: Editor/Production/Ad Sales P.O. Box 480977 • Kansas City, Missouri 64148 816-210-7713 • E-mail: mobeef@sbcglobal.net Macey Hurst • Ad Sales • 573-821-6982

Missouri Cattlemen’s Association MCA Website: www.mocattle.com

Mike Deering • Executive Vice President - Ext 230 Mike@mocattle.com Sydney Thummel • Manager of Membership - Ext 231 Sydney@mocattle.com Macey Hurst • Manager of Strategic Solutions – Ext. 235 Macey@mocattle.com Candace Bergesch • MBC Editor/Production Artist Candace@mocattle.com Lisa Stockhorst, Administrative Assistant – Ext 234 Lisa@mocattle.com

Missouri’s Cattlemen Foundation www.mocattlemenfoundation.org

DEPARTMENTS 7

New MCA Members

NCBA News

Brangus News

USMEF News

MCA All-Breeds Junior Show Preview

Obituary: C.H. Williams

Sale Reports

2021 MCA Officers

Patty Wood, President 660-287-7701 • 16075 Wood Road, La Monte, MO 65337 Bruce Mershon, President-Elect 816-525-1954 • 31107 Lake City Buckner Rd., Buckner, MO 64016 David Dick, Vice President 660-826-0031 • 23529 Anderson School Rd., Sedalia, MO 65301 Matt Hardecke, Treasurer 573-846-6614 • 19102 Skymeadows Dr., Wildwood, MO 63069 Charlie Besher, Secretary 573-866-2846 • RR 5, Box 2402, Patton, MO 63662

2021 MCA Regional Vice Presidents

Region 1: Eric Greenley, 61998 Pleasant Valley Rd. Knox City, MO 63446 660-341-8750 Region 2: Chuck Miller, 393 Spring Garden Road Olean, MO 65064 • 573-881-3589 Region 3: Jeff Reed, PO Box 35 Williamsville, MO 63967 • 903-279-8360 Region 4: Deb Thummel, 12601 Hwy. 46 Sheridan, MO 64486 • 660-541-2606 Region 5: John Shipman, 34266 Hwy KK Mora, MO 65345 • 660-221-1013 Region 6: Warren Love, 8381 NE Hwy ZZ Osceola, MO 64776 • 417-830-1950 Region 7: Traves Merrick, 1956 Hwy 97 Miller, MO 65707 • 417-536-8080

MAY 2021

Missouri Beef Cattleman, (USPS 890-240 • ISSN 0192-3056) is published monthly (12 times a year) and is the official publication of the Missouri Cattlemen’s Association, 2306 Bluff Creek Drive, #100, Columbia, Missouri, 65201. PERIODICALS postage paid at Columbia, Missouri and additional mailing offices. Subscription price is included as a part of the minimum membership dues of $70.00 per year in Missouri Cattlemen’s Association. Postmaster: Send address changes to: Missouri Beef Cattleman, P.O. Box 480977, Kansas City, Missouri 64148

Missouri’s CattleWomen

http://mocattle.com/missouricattlewomen.aspx

MAY 2021

Alaina Link, Moberly, MO Alyssa Robertson, Clinton, MO Anna Link, Moberly, MO Arjen Burwell, Lee’s Summit, MO Bill Dryer, Aldrich, MO Bryan Dempsey, Excelsior Springs, MO Cade Rector, Lexington, MO Carson Roling, Jefferson City, MO Clayton & Karen Stokes, Flemington, MO Cody Robertson, Clinton, MO Colby & Ashton Edwards, Bevier, MO Darrell Aldrich, Excelsior Springs, MO Don & Denise Van Black, Bolivar, MO Doug Hertzog, Holden, MO Ed & Emelia Meissen, Salisbury, MO Grant McMillen, Walnut Grove, MO James Brackenridge, Eldorado Springs, MO Jared & Chelsie Barnett, Doniphan, MO Jason Miller, Jefferson City, MO Jeff and Teresa Ward, Willow Springs, MO Jenna Ketchum, Downing, MO Jim & Phyllis Edwards, Middletown, MO Joe Hertzog, Holden, MO Justus Gambriel, Bolivar, MO Kate Roling, Jefferson City, MO Kathryn Zuzack, Bourbon, MO Lane Peterson, Fulton, MO

Lane Pohlman, Oak Ridge, MO Leslie Ramsey, Dunnegan, MO Linda Wools, St. James, MO Lloyd Peterson, Fulton, MO Logan Billingsley, Steelville, MO Lonnie & Cassie Peterson, Fulton, MO Macy Reece, Southwest City, MO Madden Hunt, Jefferson City, MO Mark Hertzog, Greenwood, MO Mark & Debbie Friend, Elkland, MO McKenna McClure, Perryville, MO Mike Moyer, Houston, MO Taylor Miller, Jefferson City, MO Troy and Kimberly Roling- Gish, Jefferson City, MO Tucker McClure, Perryville, MO Zane Witte, Stover, MO

See the MCA Membership Form on page 85

MAY 2021 7

Your Bucket How full is your bucket? Each of us has an invisible bucket. When our bucket is full, we feel great. When it is empty, we feel awful. Every moment matters. This was the message in the children’s book How Full is Your Bucket? For Kids by Tom Rath and Mary Reckmeyer, which our youngest granddaughter read this week to me via facetime as we share our love for reading regularly.

MAY 2021

I love when books give wings to the mind, flight to the imagination, and life to everything. I began to ponder on my bucket. Do my interactions each day fill or empty my bucket? More importantly, do my words and deeds fill or empty those buckets of people I am around?

In the beef industry and our association, daily we are provided with opportunities to be a positive bucket filler. By joining our grassroots organization, you are showing your commitment to beef producers in Missouri and investing in the future direction of our industry. Each time we interact, post on social media, or correspond with a member, our interaction has an effect far past that one member. Ultimately, when we become engaged and know the value of the association, we want every cattle producer to be a part of the positive impact to promote our product and protect our rights in the beef industry. Membership retention and membership recruitment is key to fill our association bucket.

The moving force behind policy change for the beef industry are the association’s advocates who are sharing personal experiences with legislators at the local, state, and national levels. Through emails, phone calls, letters to the editor, press events, and face-to-face meetings with decision makers, MCA members are directly influencing policy which will impact the livelihoods for cattle producers today, tomorrow, and in the future. Making your voice heard is crucial to our association bucket. As you ponder on your bucket as well as the association’s, I encourage you to focus on how every interaction in a day either fills or empties the bucket. Interestingly enough when you fill someone’s bucket, you fill your bucket too! How can you contribute to our association’s bucket today and every day?

MAY 2021

Straight

Talk

with Mike Deering Mind Your Own Business The old Hank Williams Sr. song, “Mind Your Own Business,” is a favorite of mine, and I sure wish politicians like Governor Jared Polis (D-Colo.) would heed Hank’s advice. “Why don’t you mind your own business? ‘Cause if you mind your business, then you won’t be mindin’ mine.”

MAY 2021

So very true, Hank. Yet some elected leaders believe they know what’s best for you and your family better than you do. They want to mandate masks; mandate plastic straws; and Governor Polis believes you need to cut meat out of your diet, evident by his bonehead decision to proclaim March 20 as “Meat Out Day” in Colorado. Good grief, Governor, mind your own business and let citizens decide what they believe is best for their own lives.

Governor Polis’ ignorant decision backfired because people throughout the country stood together and told the Governor just where he could put that “meat out” proclamation. It was actually inspiring to see the grassroots take ownership of their own lives with grilling celebrations, viral videos and thousands of social media posts with the “MeatIn” hashtag. His decision resulted in more beef promotion and producer appreciation than a million-dollar television ad during the Super Bowl would have. I am confident of that. I cannot wait to see beef consumption numbers from a year ago compared to March 20, 2021. It was beyond amusing to watch Governor Polis backpedal on his proclamation and scramble to create a new one celebrating farmers and ranchers. Every once in a while, we need to be thankful for stupidity. While I believe it may be wishful thinking that politicians will simply mind their own business and

Executive Vice President let us live our lives the way we deem best, I do believe we can collectively turn the table on these decisions. We can transform ignorance into opportunities to showcase the importance of beef in a heart healthy diet and highlight what we do every single day to bring the most nutritious, tastiest beef to consumers’ tables. We need to stand together as an industry and alongside our loyal beef-eating customers just as we did in response to the Colorado proclamation. Why wait until the next politician declares our product unhealthy or harmful, void of facts, to unite? This month is Beef Month in Missouri and throughout the country. This is the perfect time to share videos and post on social media. Let’s be proactive in telling our farm story and sharing facts provided by the Beef Checkoff about the nutritional benefits of beef and sharing the difference between good fat (found in beef) and bad fat. If we are proactive and generate as much positivity around our products and our beef community as we did on March 20, maybe we can convince politicians to mind their own business. Again, wishful thinking, but I am confident good will come from this unity, just as it did in March. “May is Beef Month, and on my family farm, we…” Finish your story and share it widely.

MAY 2021

NCBA Delivers Preserving Family Farms Act: A Permanent Solution to a Generational Issue Source: NCBA The Preserving Family Farms Act of 2021 was introduced by U.S. Representatives Jimmy Panetta (CA-20) and Jackie Walorski (IN-2). NCBA has long supported efforts to reduce undue tax burden on farmers and ranchers. This bipartisan legislation to expand IRS Code Section 2032A would allow cattle producers to take advantage of the Special Use Valuation and protect family-owned businesses from the devastating impact of the federal estate tax, commonly referred to as the Death Tax. “We thank Representatives Panetta and Walorski for their leadership and dedication to protecting future generations of agricultural producers through the introduction of the Preserving Family Farms Act of 2021,” said Jerry Bohn, NCBA president. The Preserving Family Farms Act increases the maximum amount allowed under the Section 2032A

MAY 2021

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exemption from $750,000 to $11 million (indexed for inflation), thus reviving a critically important tool in the toolbox for farm and ranch families across the U.S. If enacted, this legislation will provide a permanent solution to an issue that has long plagued our nation’s cattle producers. “America’s farmers and ranchers deserve certainty in the tax code overall, and they need certainty especially when it comes to the estate tax. Without it, transition planning for the next generation of producers is nearly impossible,” Bohn said. Background: In the Tax Reform Act of 1976, Congress recognized the disproportionate burden of the Death Tax on agricultural producers and created Section 2032A as a way to help farmers keep their farms. However, the benefits of Special Use Valuations have been stymied over the years as the cap on deductions has failed to keep pace with the rising value of farmland. While the current 2032A reduction is 55 percent higher than the value established two decades ago, USDA estimates that cropland values have increased by 223 percent. Agricultural land values – including on-farm buildings – have also risen dramatically, increasing by 241 percent during this same period. Due to the rapid inflation of farmland values, the 2032A deduction is no longer aligned with the needs of modern agriculture – nor does it accomplish Congress’ intended goal of providing meaningful protection to those producers who are most vulnerable to the estate tax.

Study Proves Stepped-Up Basis Repeal Would Be Detrimental to Farms and Ranches Source: NCBA Today (April 20, 2021), the Family Business Estate Tax Coalition (FBETC) released an EY study quantifying the impact a repeal of stepped-up basis would have on family businesses. The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) has long advocated for the preservation of this long-standing provision of the U.S. tax code, as well as other sound tax policies for rural America, and has been an active supporter of this study. “The EY study sheds light on the facts that we at NCBA—among others in the agricultural community— have long known. Simply put, the repeal of stepped-up basis would have catastrophic impacts on the ability of farmers and ranchers to transfer their operations to the next generation,” said NCBA Senior Executive Director of Government Affairs Danielle Beck. The EY study found that family-owned businesses and the local economies they support would be hit hardest by a repeal. To reveal the impact stepped-up basis repeal would have on family-owned farms and ranches, EY developed a case-study based on a theoretical familyowned cow-calf operation. In this scenario—one where

the stepped-up basis is no longer a tool for familyowned business to utilize when generational transfer occurs — gains are taxed at death and would result in an immediate one-time tax liability equivalent to 280 percent of the farm’s annual income. “NCBA continues to advocate for tax policy that allows the next generation of agricultural producers to have the economic tools to be successful. Repealing steppedup basis would adversely impact farmers and ranchers across the country. In fact, while this provision has been identified as a potential revenue raiser for government spending—it would be irresponsible to place that burden on family-owned businesses, and multi-generational agricultural operations in particular,” said Beck. Background: Based on the analysis of the EY study — this tax increase, whether via tax at death or carryover of basis, will have negative impacts on family-owned businesses, U.S. gross domestic product (GDP), and job creation both in the immediate and long term. Repeal of steppedup basis would impose a tax burden on top of the existing estate tax regime, further compounding these negative impacts.

MAY 2021 15

Your

BEEF CHECKOFF NEWS May Elevates Beef to Consumers Everywhere By Mark Russell, Executive Director Missouri Beef Industry Council

industry, he will also recognize the importance of food service and retailers highlighting beef to consumers.

May is a month beef producers like to shine! Spring calving season is winding up, hay harvesting is in full swing and crop planting has started. Farmers and ranchers throughout Missouri and the U.S. are doing what they enjoy doing – raising food for a growing consumer population.

Several retailers and restaurants in Missouri have made a move to highlight beef as well. Hy-Vee supermarkets, Dierbergs Markets, Imo’s Pizza and others have campaigns launching in May. In the Dierbergs campaign, shoppers buying ground beef will have organizations matching their purchases to contribute ground beef to Operation Food Search in St. Louis, a non-profit group assisting food insecure families in the St. Louis metro area.

Historically, May is recognized in many states with a focus on the beef industry. The Missouri Beef Industry Council has many local, state, and national activities that move the message of more beef, more often to consumers. Nationally, the Consumer Marketing team at NCBA is developing new content for the Summer Grilling Season 2021 that will launch in May. This campaign will keep beef top of mind this summer grilling season. Included with this campaign will be new and updated beef and lifestyle photography and video footage that will be used as the basis for the campaign. Static display and social media ads for Beef Month, as well as a “Celebrate Beef Month” text overlay will complement state and local efforts. In Missouri, the Governor of Missouri, Mike Parson, has been invited to proclaim May is Beef Month and is scheduled to do that on May 20th at the St. Louis Science Center in St. Louis. Along with recognizing the

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Broadcast (radio and television) campaigns running in May include KY3/Harter House in Springfield with a contest to win prizes and beef. KOMU8 in mid-Missouri will be running a similar campaign with giveaways on their television and social media assets. Alpha Media Radio with stations in Moberly, Lebanon, Farmington, Cameron and Bethany promote beef through radio contests, advertisements and interviews with checkoff leaders in the state. TV cooking segments on KY3 and KSDK will highlight May is Beef Month and share recipes to inspire families to celebrate at home. Media kits sent to all county cattlemen’s groups help local producers push the message to rural communities and consumers. If you would like to receive a media kit please contact Samantha Riley, Director of Marketing and Communications at samantha@mobeef.com. Media kits include print ads, radio ads, social media content and more! County and local promotions for 2021 in May include the St. Clair County Cattlemen. This group continues to move the Beef. It’s What’s for Dinner. message in many ways. This year includes an education effort in their county at local schools including Appleton City, Lakeland, Osceola and Roscoe. Parents and students will benefit from the support of local FFA chapters and the cattlemen to share and educate students about where their food comes from and the importance of agriculture and beef in their lives. Educational and

nutritional materials will be distributed to an estimated 500 families and beef sticks will be distributed to the Food for America program. This is the fourth year of participating with the program which impacts positively the students, parents, and community. St. Clair County Cattlemen also participate in parades and cooking events in their county. This year, May 1 kicks off their summer schedule of going to communities to promote beef to local attendees. The St. Charles County Cattlemen host a special event on May 24 this year to promote beef. This event focuses on motorcycle riders from across the western U.S. that are participating in the “Run for the Wall” that will end in Washington D.C. on Memorial Day. The estimated crowd of more than 400 will enjoy steaks grilled by the cattlemen from their “beef messaged” wrapped trailer. The on-site grilling will also be utilized to hand out grilling recipes and answer any questions.

The Missouri Beef Industry Council will be hosting a photo contest on Instagram during the month of May. Use the hashtag #MayIsBeefMonth and tag @ mobeefcouncil in your posts about beef recipes and meals for a chance to win some beef swag! You will see a new “May is Beef Month” frame on Facebook for your profile pictures starting May 1. We will also be hosting another installment of our Virtual Beef Cooking Club on May 4 featuring the Carolina BBQ Burger and plenty of tips to build your best burger to celebrate the month! To sign up visit www.mobeef.org/cooking/ virtual-cooking-club.

Cole County Cattlemen will launch a special event on May 1 in Jefferson City to recognize the month. Parking lot banners and advertising will bring customers into the event on the Schulte’s Fresh Foods parking lot. In Clark County, the Cattlemen’s Association will host a special event/ promotion at Mac’s Super Saver parking lot on May 28. Advertising locally will target shoppers to stop by the store and get a free hamburger, along with recipes and promotional materials about beef.

MAY 2021

Also, the Climax Springs FFA chapter will coordinate a schoolwide event on May 6, where chapter members will design and implement a beef education program in the elementary classes to showcase the nutritional importance of beef products. The students will demonstrate various methods in which ground beef can be prepared to create healthy and delicious meals. The goal is for younger school-aged students to gain a better understanding of the source of their food and the steps necessary to procure food from farm to plate.

Beef Checkoff: Who’s Who & How It Works Source: Greg Hanes, CEO, Cattlemen’s Beef Board Beef. It seems like the kind of commodity that would be simple, straightforward, easy to understand. Except…it’s not. The industry’s long history of organizational splits, reinventions, mergers and aliases — along with the fact that many association names sound similar — is enough to make anybody’s head spin. Even folks from other commodities agree that the beef world is complex, and so is its Checkoff. For three and a half decades, the Beef Checkoff has existed to promote beef, but unless you are actively engaged in the program, you may not fully understand its management and oversight. Those duties are clearly assigned to the Cattlemen’s Beef Promotion & Research Board (aka, Cattlemen’s Beef Board/CBB) by the Beef Promotion and Research Act. Even with completely separate boards, staffs and offices, two common misperceptions remain: the belief that the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) oversees the Checkoff — and that CBB and NCBA are one and the same. Nothing could be further from the truth.

BACKGROUND The 1985 Farm Bill created the CBB to administer the Beef Checkoff program. Through the dollar-ahead assessment on the sale of all cattle and equivalent amount on imported beef and beef products, each year the CBB funds promotion, research and education proposals presented to the Beef Promotion Operating Committee (BPOC) by established, national, non-profit beef or cattle industry-governed organizations. Once a proposal is approved by the BPOC, the organization becomes a Checkoff “contractor” and conducts the work according to guidelines and program evaluations that ensure proposal objectives are met. ANSWERING THE BIG QUESTION By law, absolutely no Checkoff funds can be used for policy or lobbying efforts. That said, the Beef Checkoff’s largest contractor, NCBA, does have a policy division. So, how does that work? Through closely monitored processes and a “firewall” that keeps policy work and Checkoff-funded work separate.

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MAY 2021

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As a trade association representing U.S. cattle producers, NCBA is like a coin with two sides. One side, the Policy Division, works to advance the political interests of its members. Any discussion of NCBA and policy is valid, but that’s NCBA’s Policy Division at play and has nothing to do with the CBB or Checkoff. The other side of NCBA is qualified to contract with the BPOC to conduct Checkoff promotion, research and education work as an established, national, nonprofit beef or cattle industry governed organization. To be clear, it is not the organization’s policy side that competes in this arena. Just like any other Checkoff contractor, NCBA must adhere to all rules and processes, and its contract work is managed by the CBB. Each year, it must submit Authorization Requests (program proposals) that fully outline the project work it wants to do. It must file progress reports, quarterly oversight evaluations and regular reviews. It can only receive Checkoff dollars on a cost-recovery basis, which means it pays expenses up front and is only reimbursed after the CBB reviews invoices and documentation proving the money was spent appropriately and within the parameters of the Authorization Request. A dedicated compliance officer ensures all provisions of the Act and the Order are followed, that the “firewall” is maintained and that no Checkoff funds are used for policy or lobbying. For the current fiscal year, the Beef Checkoff has nine contractors: • American Farm Bureau Foundation for Agriculture (AFBFA)*

• Cattlemen’s Beef Board, which manages the Producer Communications program • Foundation for Meat & Poultry Research and Education (FMPRE) • Meat Importers Council of America (MICA) • National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA)* • National Institute for Animal Agriculture (NIAA) • North American Meat Institute (NAMI)* • U.S. Cattlemen’s Association (USCA)* • U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF) So, in a nutshell, the CBB oversees operation of the Beef Checkoff and its contractors, including NCBA. The “beef world” is definitely not uncomplicated, but each organization that does Beef Checkoff-funded work on behalf of producers has a unique area of expertise. In the end, it all contributes to a great big, coordinated effort to drive demand for beef. *Denotes organization with separate policy division; however, no Beef Checkoff funds support policy or lobbying efforts. ABOUT THE BEEF CHECKOFF: The Beef Checkoff Program was established as part of the 1985 Farm Bill. The Checkoff assesses $1 per head on the sale of live domestic and imported cattle, in addition to a comparable assessment on imported beef and beef products. States may retain up to 50 cents on the dollar and forward the other 50 cents per head to the Cattlemen’s Beef Promotion and Research Board, which administers the national Checkoff program, subject to USDA approval.

Missouri Beef Industry Council Director Election Legal Notice Notice is hereby given that the Director of Agriculture will be conducting an election to fill three positions on the Missouri Beef Industry Council Board of Directors. One regional council member is to be elected in each of Regions 1, 2 and 3. Terms of office are three years.

Any qualified producer may be nominated and have his/her name placed on the ballot provided the independent nomination is accompanied by petition of not fewer than 100 producers in the nominee’s region and written permission of the candidate. Petitions must be delivered to the Director of Agriculture on or before July 20, 2021. Petition forms are available from the Missouri Department of Agriculture by calling 573-751-5019.

MAY 2021

Any cattle producer within the specified regions of the State of Missouri who is producing cattle for market and the legal owner of one or more head of cattle becomes eligible to vote in the election by registering at his/her respective Farm Service Agency (FSA), or electronically at http://mda.mo.gov/councils/ prior to July 20, 2021. Cattle producers who have voted in any of the previous three (3) elections are not required to register unless their address has changed.

The Missouri Department of Agriculture will mail ballots to registered producers on August 13, 2021. Ballots must be postmarked no later than August 31, 2021 to be valid.

What’s Cookin’ at the

Missouri Beef House By Beef House Team

Thank You to the MCA Beef House Team On Thursday, April 8, 2021, the MCA Beef House Team prepared and served the evening meal to the 2021-2022 Missouri FFA Associaion state office candidates and judges in the Lowell-Mohler Assembly Hall on the fairgrounds. With the 93rd Missouri FFA State Convention being held on the Missouri State Fairgrounds in Sedalia, Missouri, later in the month, the state officer selection process took place April 7-9, 2021. It was our honor to serve this distinguished group of 40 who will make a positive difference by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth and career success through agricultural education. A BIG thanks goes out to MCA volunteers, Mike and Suetta Carter, Marvin Dieckman, John and Kathy Harris, Eric Kraus, Ted and Merrilyn Williams, and Pat and Patty Wood, all of whom graciously accepted the MCA Beef House challenge to cook and serve the delicious shredded roast beef meal.

MAY 2021

On Saturday, April 17, 2021, the MCA Beef House Team prepared and served an evening meal to the Sacred Heart School Hall of Fame Dinner at Sacred

Heart School in Sedalia, Missouri. This event was to recognize and honor the extraordinary accomplishments of the members of the Sacred Heart School family. David Dick, president of the Sacred Heart Alumni Association, was the emcee. We were honored to serve 150 guests who have made a positive, meaningful and lasting impact in the communities in which they live. A HUGE thank you to MCA volunteers, Mike and Suetta Carter, Marvin and Carolyn Dieckman, John and Kathy Harris, Eric Kraus, Pat and Patty Wood, all of whom consistently accept the MCA Beef House challenge. Thought for the month: “Be the host with a ROAST!”

MAY 2021

IBBA Commercial Producer of the Year: Bar G Ranch Source: IBBA - Cody Gariss and Emily Lochner “Years ago, I remember a Brangus staffer talking about the need to gear our product towards the ‘professional cattleman,’” says Cody Gariss of GENEPLUS Brangus. “Engineers get a professional stamp, attorneys receive a professional license, and athletes get a professionallysized contract. But a true cowman does not thrive on professional accolades, rather the ability to make a fair living for an honest day’s work. They understand how to use the assets that God has entrusted to them, turning grass and grain into red meat that helps to feed the world. They’re the kind who supports their family, the kind who work with blood, sweat, and tears; a true cowman knows the hard work ethic it takes to last in the ranching business. Brent and Sandra Gundy are true cattlemen.” The International Brangus Breeders Association (IBBA) 2020 Commercial Producer of the Year was awarded to Bar G Ranch, Brent and Sandra Gundy of Walker, Missouri at the IBBA Annual Convention in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. The IBBA Commercial Producer of the Year award was established to annually recognize a commercial producer who effectively utilizes Brangus genetics to make their operation more profitable and successful. “Our awards journey took us long and far into operations across the Unites States,” mentions Shiloh Hall, IBBA Awards Committee chairman. “The awards committee was comprised of seasoned breeders and fellow committee chairmen, to offer a fair and unbiased assessment of the applications. We learned so much about the history of many operations and the commitment to the bettering of the Brangus breed. Our 2020 award winners, the Gundys, could not be more deserving.”

MAY 2021

Whether a breeder of commercial or purebred seedstock, the end product should never be far of mind for any who raise livestock. At the end of the day – the beef industry exists on the principle of providing safe, nutritious, and delicious beef.

“Consumers gladly pay a premium for beef over competing protein sources because of taste. This concept is not lost on association work. Providing genetics for the commercial cattle industry and its consumers is the IBBA’s core purpose, after all,” says Darrell Wilkes, Ph.D., IBBA executive vice president.

As for the Gundys, a life of ranch work was always the plan. “For me, I grew up on a farm, and I’ve always known that I wanted to be involved in raising livestock my whole life,” says Brent Gundy. “When Sandra and I got married in 1985, we began our own farming operation. In the early years, we ran a lot of stockers, during that time we tried to save as many heifers as we could for replacements. And over time, we’ve transitioned away from running stockers and now we solely run mama cows.” Today, the Gundys run approximately 700 cows on several thousand acres in Missouri, around 90 miles due south of Kansas City. Their primary income revolves around the sale of source-verified, backgrounded steers to the Joplin Regional Stockyards. They also have begun to find a niche in selling developed replacement heifers and first-calf pairs by private treaty on the farm. “We have really tried to build up our reputation with our feeder cattle,” prides Gundy. “We want buyers to know that the cattle we bring to the sale barn are healthy, honest, and will perform well in their feedyard. We wean our calves in November and unless it’s a tough year, we traditionally will not sell them until well after the first of the year. We will run our feeder calves on pasture and background them until they’re about 750lbs. We follow the Zoetis vaccination protocol and make sure that every single calf we put on the trailer to Joplin is healthy and clean.” In recent years, the Joplin market has implemented a new EID program with verified feeder calf sales, an opportunity the Gundys did not miss taking advantage of.

MAY 2021

“We’ve been affiliated with the crew at Joplin since the mid-1990s. It’s all about reputation when you sell cattle. Even though we don’t retain ownership of our feeders, we want the buyers to be pleased with their purchases. That way, when we bring a load to town, buyers come and find us, wanting to know what we brought so they can try to bid on them.” Because of their investment into high quality Brangus and Ultrablack® sires, consequentially, the resulting replacement heifer progeny have brought value to the Gundys. For over 20 years, the Gundys have purchased sires from GENETRUST, now GENEPLUS, programs and have been able to raise the kind of quality cattle that attract other producers. “We’ve sold some replacement females through the commercial female sale at Chimney Rock before,” comments Gundy. “But for the most part, we prefer to sell them on-farm. We keep our replacements and develop them – people really seem to like our cattle. Sometimes we will calve our first-calf heifers out and sell them as pairs where we know we can control the health of the cow and calf. Just last week I took a 13-year-old bull to the sale barn, so I can honestly tell my customers the longevity of the Brangus influence is there.”

MAY 2021

“The Gundys have long known the value of the Brangus female on their Missouri fescue operation,” states Gariss.

After using a combination of Angus and Horned Hereford cattle, sourced from leading Midwestern operations, the Gundys began to find success in the Brangus female, driving them to the breed in the early 2000s. They found over time, the Brangus influence introduced more fleshing ability into the herd and came with less hair and eye problems, equating to cows being bred back quicker and turning more pounds to sell on payday. “I really can’t explain it,” says Gundy. “I’ve just always liked the Brangus breed. From my childhood on, there’s no other explanation. As we began our herd, the biggest thing I noticed was the hair quality on the Brangus influenced females. I found that on fescue country, the Angus cow was just retaining her hair so much worse, which is why I started to make the switch in the first place. We tried Hereford cattle as an experiment. But, in the summer when it’s 100 degrees outside, you’ll see the British cattle in the pond, while the eared cattle are out grazing on pasture. To me, that equates to pounds, or more simply put, dollars in my pocket.” For many producers raising cattle in the fescue belt, breed-back time is critical. Fescue as a forage naturally increases the body temperature of an animal, making summer breeding for spring calf crops a challenge. The Bar G crew found an extra shot of Bos indicus allowed the Brangus female to withstand those challenges, not missing a beat in the game of reproductive fertility or soundness. It wasn’t long until they began wanting more from the 3/8 x 5/8 secret.

“As the Gundys began to turn their bull battery over exclusively to Brangus and Ultrablack bulls, their satisfaction with the breed never wavered,” recalls Gariss. “In fact, satisfaction increased as they learned the value that EPDs brought to the herd, particularly on the steer side.” The Gundys take bull selection seriously. Rivaling many registered producers in their herd sire selection, they understand the value their bull battery provides to their cowherd and the type and kind of bull that they need to succeed in their environment, both physically and financially. “A bull is 50% of your calf crop and your income,” states Gundy. “And truly, if you retain heifers like we do, your bull influence starts to be 75% of your herd very quickly. I can look across my cowherd and honestly say that there’s not a single cow we own that we didn’t raise. So, for us, selecting a bull is the primary driver of the future of our herd.” The Gundys were seeing such success in the use of EPDs on their sire selection, they decided to double down, selecting bulls that ranked in the top 35% of the breed in as many traits as possible. They aimed to select for traits that would allow calves to come easy, grow fast, and hang a high-valued carcass on the rail, without sacrificing reproductive efficiency in their keeper heifers. “I look for a bull that is well-rounded,” comments Gundy. “I look for a bull that will produce a good cow and throw calves that are heavy at yearling so when we sell our steers, we get a maximum return. I want the buyer of my calves to have a good experience, so I want

a bull with high carcass EPDs. I want a bull that can sire calves that feedyard buyers are actively looking for. For the most part, I just try to stay on the topside of average across the board when it comes to EPDs. I put a lot of work into keeping the spectrum balanced. I’m keeping my heifers and keeping confidence in my steer buyers.” And, promising carcass results the Gundys proved. Over the years, the Gundys have retained ownership on hundreds of cattle through to the feedyard, seeing great success in the carcass quality of their Brangus-influenced fat steers. Data from several pens of cattle sourced from the Bar G operation showed cattle grading 95-100% Choice grade, or better. In fact, the they won the 2018 IBBA Carcass Merit Challenge award for their high valued, parent-verified progeny. “The real testament to the success of the Bar G operation is the sustainability it has provided their family,” remarks Gariss. “The Gundys have been able to raise their family and expand their ranch solely in the cattle business. Not a dollar comes in or goes out that doesn’t touch a cow, and in today’s day and time that’s just very rare. Cow sense, business expertise, and hard work turned these rancher’s dreams into reality.”

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February Red Meat Exports Below Last Year, but 2021 Outlook Remains Strong Source: USMEF February exports of U.S. beef and pork remained below the rapid pace established in early 2020, according to data released by USDA and compiled by the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF). However, exports were consistent with USMEF’s February projections and the federation still expects 2021 beef exports to increase substantially year-over-year, while pork exports are projected to narrowly surpass the 2020 record. Beef exports totaled 103,493 metric tons (mt) in February, down 8% from a year ago, valued at $669.5 million (down 2%). This was due mainly to a decline in variety meat exports, as beef muscle cuts were steady with last year in value at $597.9 million on a volume of 82,530 mt (down 3%). Through February, beef exports were 5% below last year’s pace at 208,540 mt, valued at $1.32 billion (down 2%). Beef muscle cut exports were down 1% to 163,928 mt and steady in value at $1.18 billion. Beef exports to South Korea are off to a very strong start in 2021 and demand for U.S. beef continues to grow in China, capitalizing on access gains achieved in the U.S.-China Phase One Economic and Trade Agreement. February pork exports were down 12% from a year ago at 239,240 mt, valued at $629.4 million (down 13%). For muscle cuts only, exports fell by the same percentages to 203,526 mt valued at $548 million. Through February, pork exports were 11% below last year’s pace at 487,896 mt, valued at $1.27 billion (down 13%). Pork muscle cut exports were also down 11% to 411,760 mt, valued at $1.1 billion (down 14%). February pork exports set new records in the Dominican Republic, Guatemala, El Salvador and Costa Rica and were very strong to the Philippines and Colombia. As anticipated, pork exports to China/Hong Kong trended lower than the enormous volumes shipped in 2020 but the region continues to be the largest destination for U.S. pork.

MAY 2021

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Fueled by larger variety meat shipments to Mexico, Canada and Hong Kong, February exports of U.S. lamb increased 142% from a year ago to 1,152 mt, with value up 19% to $1.6 million. Through February, lamb exports were up 52% from a year ago to 2,179 mt but value fell 19% to $2.8 million. “While February exports were in line with expectations, the results don’t fully reflect global demand for U.S. red meat,” said Dan Halstrom, USMEF president and CEO. “Logistical challenges, including congestion at some U.S. ports, are still a significant headwind and tight labor supplies at the plant level continue to impact export volumes for certain products - including some variety meat items and labor-intensive muscle cuts.” Halstrom notes that the flow of exports through U.S. ports is showing some gradual improvement as COVIDimpacted crews move closer to full strength, but remains a serious concern for the U.S. agricultural sector. “USMEF greatly appreciates the members of Congress and ag industry representatives who have worked to bring more attention to this situation, and the efforts of maritime regulators to address shipping practices,” he said. Export demand has remained solid despite logistical challenges and other pandemic-related obstacles. Continued international demand, along with robust domestic business, contributed to stronger cutout values in the first quarter, which were up an average of 27% year-over-year for pork (nearly $90/cwt) and 4% for Choice beef ($224/cwt). A detailed summary of the January-February export results, including market-specific highlights, is available from the USMEF website. For questions, please contact Joe Schuele or call 303547-0030.

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MAY 2021

COUNTY NEWS

See What’s Happening in Your County

St. Clair County Cattlemen’s Association St. Clair County Cattlemen’s Association met on Tuesday, April 13, at Farmhouse Kitchen with 42 members and guests present. Travis Taylor with Vitalix gave a presentation on Vitalix Mineral Tubs. Vitalix has been in business over 30 years and their tubs are complete tubs, guaranteed consumption, no filler, salt or waste. Travis talked about the effects of Vitalix Breed Back Tubs on preconception and maintaining productive cattle. The cattle market is constantly changing, but the Vitalix mineral program works to increase your profit per head. Travis also shared a few testimonials from customers that are very satisfied with the program. Thank you, Travis Taylor, for speaking to our group and Appleton City Feed Service for sponsoring our meeting! Thank you, Farmhouse Kitchen Restaurant, for the delicious meal! MoBeef for MoKids donation dates for next school year are being planned. Any person or business interested in donating, please see Weston Shelby or Lawanna Salmon so they can get it marked down. Monetary donations are being taken to help the Cattlemen purchase cattle if no one has one ready to go at the scheduled time. The Cattlemen will be holding a ½ Beef Raffle this year again. Tickets are $5 each. The winner receives ½ a beef and processing. The drawing will be held on September 4, 2021, and the beef will go to Buchen Beef on September 7, 2021. All proceeds from the Beef Raffle will go to support the Scholarship Fund.

MAY 2021

St. Clair County Cattlemen won a Miraco 3345 30-Gallon, 1-Hole MiraFount Waterer at the Missouri Cattlemen’s Convention in January. The Cattlemen have decided to offer it up to any member that is interested. All proceeds will go to support the Scholarship Fund. Anyone interested should see Weston Shelby.

The next meeting is scheduled for June 8, 2021, 7 p.m., at Lakeland R-III School District with sponsors and speakers Bart and Bradley Brackman from LAG Industries.

Jim Smith, Appleton City Feeds; Weston Shelby; Travis Taylor, Vitalix Rep. speaking at the St. Clair County meeting.

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Doug & LaRee Frank 608-279-3172 Brent & Keri Hazelrigg 703-587-9959 Visit us online: FHCCbeef.com

Southwest Missouri Cattlemen The April 6 meeting of the Southwest Missouri Cattlemen’s Meeting brought out the largest crowd of the winter series of educational activities. Ninety-five cattlemen and women attended from several counties to hear about the recently-opened NextGen Beef Company in Pleasant Hope.

Future ribeye steak grilling and financial help for the following were approved: Purdy, Lockwood, Lawrence County Youth Fairs and Dairy Cow Camp at Freistatt. The meal was catered by Sum-R-Sweets, Miller.

The evening’s speaker was Andrew Bird, procurement coordinator for the plant. He said they have only been operating about two weeks and are running about two months behind where they thought they would be. The plant hopes to run 500 head per day once they get lined out. The plan is to feature Missouri-sourced beef born and raised inside Missouri state lines. The targeted kill weight is 1350 to 1400 lbs. The grid market price favors carcasses grading in the upper two-thirds Choice and Prime range. They will have a variety of labels on their product depending on their management background. For instance, was the beef grass finished, raised without additional hormones from implants? Beef from beef cows will be acceptable, but no dairy cows or bulls will be killed.

Andrew Bird (left) responds to those “after the meeting” questions.

Andrew admitted one of their start-up concerns has been finding skilled workers who show up for work each day. He added they not only would be in the market for Missouri-fed cattle, they will be helping source cattle to be fed in Missouri feedlots.

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During the business meeting, President Scynthia Schnake read thank yous from the following: Greenfield FFA, Purdy Weekend Back Pack Program, and Mount Vernon Emergency Relief Program in honor of Rodney Barnes who recently passed away. Nathan Isakson, FFA instructor at Ash Grove, spoke of his school’s tour in the region that the Cattlemen helped make possible.

Hwy 42 West • Vienna Missouri 65582 45 Miles South of Jefferson City Selling All classes of Cattle Wednesday • 10:00 a.m. Featuring ‘Star-Vac Program’ Cattle Weekly DVAuction Service for convenient online viewing & bidding For More Information Call… David Patton Office Ross Patton Bill Patton 573-308-6655 573-422-3305 573-308-6657 573-308-6658 Visit our website: www.scrsvienna.com or E-mail us: scrsvienna@gmail.com “Make South Central your Livestock Market”

Andrew Bird procurement coordinator, addresses the packed house regarding the newly-opened beef packing plant at Pleasant Hope.

A portion of the turnout on April 6.

Nodaway County Cattlemen’s Association Nodaway County Cattlemen’s Association held its 8th Annual Nodaway County Cattlemen’s Round-up on March 13. A free steak dinner was provided for all who were present. This event was very well attended by people from throughout the county. The highlight of the evening was the presentation of scholarships to county wide seniors. MCA President Patty Wood spoke

Marvin Dieckman, MCA Past President; Deb Thummel, MCA Region 4 Vice President; Sydney Thummel, MCA Manager of Membership; and Patty Wood, MCA President.

on the importance of the cattle industry in the state of Missouri. Both a silent and live auction were held to raise money for the scholarships and to fund other activities throughout the county.

Fritz Lager, Maryville, son of Bob and Terri Lager; Cody Cline, North Nodaway, son of Matt and Cari Cline; Corby Schmitz, Northeast Nodaway, son of Dennis and Carla Schmitz; Jessica Miller, South Nodaway, daughter of Spencer and Jennifer Miller; and Grant Adkins, West Nodaway, son of Greg and Joni Adkins. Not present, Trever McQueen, Jefferson, son of Jared and Gretchen McQueen.

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Dallas County Cattlemen’s Association The annual scholarship dinner and pie auction of the Dallas County Cattlemen’s Association was held April 13 at Prairie Grove School south of Buffalo. The 100 members and guests in attendance enjoyed lots of good chili and other soups, as well as homemade rolls complete with a wide array of desserts. As always, we thank the ladies of the community for their efforts and the school for always welcoming us to their nice facility. After the final bid, the pies and desserts auctioned tallied $1,735. Giving the final nod to the top pie was DCCA member Jack Dill. He took home a black walnut pie donated by his wife, Patty. Evidently, Jack knows how good that pie is and wanted it just for himself! Vying for second place honors were pies baked by Ruby Hostetler, Rochelle Hostetler and the Breakfast Nook. We were pleased that MCA President Patty Wood and her husband, Pat, could spend the evening with us. Patty offered remarks about some issues MCA will focus on this year, such as eminent domain. She encouraged all of us to tell our story to our neighbors about the importance of joining MCA. Also present for the evening were Buffalo FFA members and advisors, Mary Ann Boro and Joey Stokes. Speaking to the group was Buffalo FFA VicePresident Ethan Casteel. He informed us about the good success the chapter and members have had this spring competing at contests. The group has a number of proficiency winners as well. We congratulate them on all their hard work.

MAY 2021

Since “May is Beef Month,” DCCA has a number of activities planned to promote our product. We will be featuring a beef recipe (compliments of a local member) as well as a feature article each week in our

FFA member Ethan Casteel speaking at the Dallas County meeting.

local paper. We plan to have a display in a local grocery store and hand out beef recipes. We also will be taking information and recipes to local schools and other places of business. We have missed doing our annual Fourth Grade Field Day the last two years, but we plan to do it next year with an even bigger program and more activities than in past years.

Henry County Henry County Cattlemen met April 15 at Dietz Family Buffet in Clinton. The meal was enjoyed by 22 members, and the program was sponsored by Farmer’s Elevator in Clinton. The program was on feeding cattle pro-biotics. Health is the baseline in performance.

Pictured abover: Taylor Bush, Mike Ferguson and Doug Wagner.

MCA President Patty Wood speaking at the Dallas County meeting.

South Central Cattlemen’s Association The March South Central Cattlemen’s Association (SCCA) meeting was held at the Howell County Extension office in West Plains on March 25. The meeting was sponsored by Neogen with guest speaker Nick Hammett. Bootleggers BBQ catered the event. The meeting began with a blessing on the meal offered by Dan Corman. Due to COVID, the 2020 SCCA in-person meetings came to a stop. It was recommended and approved that the current elected officers remain in their positions with the 2021 year considered as their first year in office. The current officers are Janet Crow - President, Dan Corman - Vice President, Elizabeth Pickings - Secretary, Jenny Poor - Treasurer. Board members are Blake Crow, Brent Campbell, Robbie Beavers and Kent Kelley. Member Kent Kelley of Wood & Huston Bank spoke to the group regarding the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP). He explained that the forgivable loan is not expiring on March 31. It has been extended to May 31, 2021. He suggested that the members contact their banker or himself if they have any questions. MCA Region 3 Vice President Jeff Reed updated the group on activities and policies that the MCA is working on in Jefferson City and Washington, D.C. Some of the subjects he touched on were labeling, feral hogs, eminent domain and where it stands in the senate, and cattle market transparency. He also informed the group on how to obtain Black Vulture permits through the Farm Bureau (contact Kelly Smith 573-893-1416).

Jeff Reed, Region 3 Vice President

The SCCA’s next meeting will be Thursday, April 22 at 5:30 p.m. at the Howell County Extension office. The focus of the meeting will be a Producer Panel Q&A with best practice tips and products from area vendors. All are welcome to join.

Jenny Poor spoke to the group about the Missouri Cattlemen’s Leadership College and the first meeting on March 8-9. She suggested that the group start doing more outreach with the local FFA/ag groups in the SCCA’s region. Dan Corman spoke about Cowboys at the Capitol and his experience there on March 9.

MAY 2021

Nick Hammett from Neogen spoke on the profitability benefits of genomic testing. He explained how you can select, manage and market your cattle with more confidence by using genomic testing. Through Neogen, you can learn the growth, carcass and maternal EPD’s of your herd. Through Neogen’s Igenity Beef Profile, you get 16 maternal, performance and carcass traits, along with parentage. For more information, please contact Nick at 402-432-1798.

Polk County Cattlemen’s Association

MAY 2021

The Polk County Cattlemen’s Association held their first meeting of 2021 on April 8 at the Elks Lodge in Bolivar. The April meeting was held in conjunction with the Bolivar FFA chapter’s annual labor auction. This is a huge fundraiser for the Bolivar FFA where members are “auctioned off” for 6 hours of labor. Around 130 people attended who enjoyed a meal sponsored by the cattlemen. This year, the FFA chapter donated a portion

of the profits to the Cable Family, and the cattlemen made a donation, as well. During the meeting, the members approved the newly-elected slate of officers and discussed some upcoming events. The May meeting will be Thursday, May 13, at Smith’s Restaurant and will be sponsored by Neogen.

Barton County Cattlemen Barton County Cattlemen met April 13, 2021, at the Thiebaud meeting rooms in Lamar, Missouri. A Wagyu steak dinner was enjoyed by a large group in attendance. The meal was prepared and donated by Show Me Wagyu Charities and Scott Nolting, with assistance from Maureen Moyer and others.

have a cow carry an embryo for others. He does not recommend just getting a cow from the sale barn to carry an embryo, as usually they are there for a reason. You want to be sure it is a good quality cow to produce a healthy calf. She should have a body score of at least five.

Brett Faubion, president, opened the meeting and Rex Frieden offered a prayer. Following the meal, a program from Reprologix, Fort Scott, Kansas, was given by Nathan Wells and Shane Morgan.

He also recommended against vaccinating within 30 days prior to receipt of the embryo. Use single dose of prostaglandin or, if using two doses, give them 10 days apart. If using Cidrs, give prostaglandin seven to 10 days after Cidr and monitor for heat cycle.

Reprologix provides reproductive services for bovine, sheep, goats and deer. Shane said culling heifers is very important to maximize income. If a heifer does not calve, instead of culling, she is often moved to the next calving season, fall or spring. This can cost the producer $200 to $400. Heifers that miss the first calving season average only a 50% calf crop during their lifetime. The cost of the pregnancy check, IVF, embryo transfer, etc. is paid for if the average is one open in 40 heifers. An example was given that a bull purchased for $2500 and kept six years will cost $50 per calf. To artificially inseminate is $30 to $40, plus cost of semen. Reprologix can sex semen with 92% accuracy. Some producers will

Danny Little, Show Me Wagyu Charities, spoke next. He brought a proposal to the Cattlemen asking if they would be willing to spearhead a project aimed at providing more opportunities to students interested in agriculture. This would include hands on training and experiences in a newly built facility. The Cattlemen agreed to spearhead the project. The Cattlemen recognized Bill Phipps, founding member of the Barton County Cattlemen, with a donation to the scholarship fund established in his memory. The next meeting will be in May, details to be announced.

Lafayette County Cattlemen The Lafayette County Cattlemen Board of Directors met Thursday, April 15, at the MU Extension office in Higginsville with 15 members attending. President Don Schlesselman called the meeting to order, and minutes and treasurer’s reports were approved. Old business consisted of rescheduling the annual meeting. Plans were made to host the election of officers and other business in conjunction with the scholarship dinner. It will be held Friday, July 23, at the Concordia Community Center. A prime rib dinner served by Randy Hinck and the Plowboys crew will precede the meeting and auction. More details will be announced soon. Hannah Copenhaver reported for the scholarship committee that seven applicants applied and were interviewed. The board voted to fund scholarships for all seven upon recommendation of the scholarship judges.

New business included a report from the State Board meeting by Don Schllesselman and John Harris. Kathy

Members were reminded of the MCA PAC Steak Fry and voted to sponsor a table and provide a basket of Lafayette County items for the auction. LCCA will be taking the grill, and members were encouraged to come early to help as a sell-out crowd is expected. LCCA will again be grilling for the Super Farmer contest at the Lafayette County 4-H/FFA Fair. It was approved to again sponsor the Rate of Gain contest for the steer show with a $500 donation. Marsha Corbin gave details of the Summer Trip to Oklahoma and Kansas, August 1-5. Dates for the Missouri State Fair, August 12-22, and the Higginsville Country Fair, September 18, were discussed. Hannah Copenhaver will be sending assignments for the scholarship auction from previous year’s lists, and members were encouraged to bring in donation items early in July.

MAY 2021

Marsha Corbin reported on the two educational meetings held in March, and a discussion followed regarding planning for four meetings starting this fall.

Harris reported on the Beef House committee meeting that was held that afternoon, and Marsha Corbin shared information regarding Missouri CattleWomen’s Association and possible changes for the Beef Showcase at the Missouri State Fair.

Northwest Collegiate Cattleman In the class of Agriculture Advocacy, taught by Dr. Rod Barr, students are required to put on an advocacy event to improve ag literacy among the student population on the Northwest Missouri State University campus in Maryville, Missouri. Our group decided on a beef advocacy event, in cooperation with the Northwest Collegiate Cattlemen’s Association, with support from the Missouri Cattlemen’s Association, and with funding from the NMSU Department of Agriculture Sciences. We decided on a cookout to combat Meatless Mondays at the J.W. Jones Union. The events took place around the lunch hours of April 5 and April 12. We parked the grill right outside the union and grilled sliders that were free to any passing students who took a survey about beef nutrition and production. At our stand, we also had information about production methods and beef nutrition, as well as beef promotional items. Our target audience was non-ag students, so we positioned ourselves where we would be seen by students coming from non-ag buildings. All of us had a hand in raising cattle, so we were all able to share firsthand accounts of what the beef industry is like. In those two days, the event was a collective four hours long, 200 sliders were grilled, 90 students took the survey, and we had approximately 120 people visit our stand. Of all the interactions we had with people, the number one thing that got the most astonishment was that 97% of farms in the U.S. are family owned. A large portion of people thought it was between 30%-60%. All in all, it was a successful event, and we were able to share our cattle stories and undoubtably left positive impressions on many people on our campus.

Kingsville Livestock Auction Kingsville, Missouri Hwy. 58 • 45 Miles SE of Kansas City, MO

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MAY 2021

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From left to right: Kolby Thomas, Travis Tvrdy, Northwest Cattlemen’s member Conner Bredemeier and Riley Smith.

4-H Learns About MCA Montrose Busy Beaver 4-H club invited Marylin Lesmeister to speak on the Missouri Cattleman’s Association. MCA is the oldest and largest state organization solely representing Missouri’s cattleman and cattlewomen. She shared: their mission: “Membership is open to anyone who is dedicated to advancing Missouri’s beef industry,” as well as the history of MCA, established in 1911. She also covered MBIC’s (Missouri Beef Industry Council) focus on

investing in research, food safety and promotions, funded through the $1 per head beef checkoff program; MCF (Missouri’s Cattlemen Foundation), whose mission is to promote the educational development of rural youth by aiding injured children, providing farm safety training, leadership programs and scholarships; and MJCA (Missouri Junior Cattlemen’s Association), which she suggested any one of them could join for the learning opportunities.

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MAY 2021 43

MAY 2021

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MAY 2021

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MAY 2021

On the Edge of

Common Sense with Baxter Black Cowhide On The Soles of His Boots I wanna tell y’all a true story that happened to a friend of mine. Big Jim was judgin’ the rodeo at Burlington last year. They call him Big Jim ‘cause he’s big as a round bale and twice as tough. But he don’t move quite as fast as he did in his ol’ bronc ridin’ days. Big Jim always had a way with animals. He roped a skunk one time when he was a little boy and drug it home. His dad made him unsaddle a hundred yards from the house. Jim said his ol’ pony walked right into the pond and stuck his whole head under the water… several times. He finally sold the saddle. Two years later. In the winter. They claim him and his dog, Pat, cornered a 300 lb. wild boar in a thicket, unarmed, and did him in with his Barlow. So Big Jim is used to animals behavin’ peculiar around him. The stock contractor told Jim that his blue mare would buck out and come round to the right. Jim positioned himself to see when the saddle bronc rider marked’er out. The rider called for the horse.

MAY 2021

Out they came pitchin’ and rollin’. The cowboy was spurrin’ fer all he was worth and the ol’ mare was feelin’ her oats. She bucked toward Big Jim. He backed up ‘til he was backed up against the front of the chute.

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Ol’ Blue stuck her head right against Big Jim’s chest and pinned him to the fence! She had her mouth wide open and was sqealin’ like a cheerleader at the high school basketball finals. She was strikin’ and pawin’ and flailin’ on both sides of his rigid body. Splinter and sparks were flyin’ off both sides of Big Jims head. He daren’t move a muscle. He was less than three feet from the dumbfounded bronc stomper who was still spurrin’ like a hound dog in a gopher hole! They were lookin’ at each other with Pekingese eyes. Silver and horsehair was flashin’ and flyin’ in furious strokes as the rider continued to try and impress the judge. It can be said, he certainly had his attention. This continued for a three second eternity then the mare fell back, wheeled and mule kicked at the petrified judge. Both hooves hit the chute simultaneously on each side of Jim’s head at eye level. Then she bucked off down the arena. The other judge come runnin over. “Are ya ok? Could ya see what happened? Was he spurrin’ on both sides? How’d ya mark’em?” “Wull,” said Big Jim, “I know the kids got the makin’s of a bronc rider. He had his toes pointed out so far that from where I was standin’ I could read ‘genuine cowhide’ on the soles of his boots!”

MAY 2021

Profitable Cow-Calf Operations Begin with Early Calvers Source: University of Missouri Extension - Jordan Thomas Cows need to conceive and calve early to earn their keep. University of Missouri Extension beef cow-calf specialist Jordan Thomas says managing for a short or even an “ultra-short” calving season should determine which cows get to stay on the farm. Late-conceiving cows should go to market. Thomas and MU Extension beef nutrition specialist Eric Bailey are collaborating on a multiyear project to carry out an ultra-short calving season at MU’s MBCSept2014c.qxp_Layout 1 9/24/14 Center 9:59 AMwith Pagethe 62 goal of managing Southwest Research for a calving season of only about 30 days. Thomas and Bailey argue that this can be done profitably through good reproductive management and strategic marketing of late-conceiving cows. Don’t feed low producers over winter Cows that conceive late in the breeding season go on to calve late in the calving season. As a result, they wean younger, lighter-weight calves, Thomas says. Yet those cows cost just about the same amount to maintain all year long on the operation. Those costs really matter, especially when forage is in short supply, he says. Carrying low-productivity cows, especially through the winter months when feed costs are highest, drags down profits.

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When deciding if cows stay or go, begin by calculating carrying capacity of the farm or ranch. Matching carrying stocking rate with carrying capacity is essential if the goal is to maintain cows through the winter with lower supplementation or hay costs, says Thomas. Knowing the number of animal units that the land can support via grazing alone helps producers decide whether to destock or buy feed. MU Extension agronomists and livestock specialists can help producers estimate land’s carrying capacity if needed. “Most of us are used to thinking about destocking cows in drought conditions,” Thomas says. “We carry lowproductivity cows until we run out of feed. But really, we need to ask if something else is more profitable. Those cows are eating up a forage resource that we could use in a much more profitable way.” Beef up your forage management skills Bailey argues that the spring flush of forage is a much more valuable resource than we realize. All too often in Missouri, that forage simply gets harvested as hay— and often as low-quality hay because spring weather prevented a timely hay harvest. Thomas says long hay-feeding seasons and long calving seasons seem to go together, and both lead to lower profits. Good forage management allows a longer grazing season, feeding less hay and adding weight to calves after weaning. In more research at Southwest Research Center, Bailey is studying how to increase profits by running fewer cows and adding stocker calves during peak forage months. “Grass sells a lot better wrapped in calf hide than in cow hide,” Thomas says. “We need to allocate forage to profitable enterprises. If you consider the poor profits produced by later-conceiving, lower-productivity cows,

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MAY 2021

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it is clear they are not a good strategy for packaging that forage into calf value.” Treat your herd like your portfolio The USDA’s most recent National Animal Health Monitoring Survey shows that producers give a variety of reasons for culling. Old cows or those with bad teeth go first. Other top reasons include pregnancy status, temperament and drought. Those are good reasons to cull cows, Thomas says, but that doesn’t mean obvious culls are the only cows that need to be marketed. “Lateconceiving cows just are not going to generate enough profit compared to early-conceiving cows or stockers,” he says. Data shows early calvers stay in the herd longer. Thomas supports a relatively short, well-managed breeding season but emphasizes the value of having a veterinarian perform a pregnancy examination to determine fetal age. Cows that conceived late will not only wean lighter-weight calves next year, they are also more likely to not become pregnant in the following year’s breeding season. Thomas says producers can think of their herds as an investment portfolio. Consider the input costs and the

“Although it can feel like failure when we have to cull cows, we shouldn’t look at strategically marketing late-conceiving cows as failing,” Thomas says. “Look at it as an opportunity to free up equity that is tied up in animals that are poor investments. That is always a wise decision, especially when approaching the winter months without enough stockpiled forage. Lateconceiving females are just not a good investment.” MU Extension has beef cow-calf planning budgets for northern and southern Missouri operations available for download. Northern Missouri: extension.missouri.edu/g680. Southern Missouri: extension.missouri.edu/g679. Thomas also discusses this topic in a video at youtu.be/ The3TCUJrZo.

MAY 2021

Provided by the Missouri Department of Agriculture

equity tied up in a cow and ask if that cow generates an acceptable return on investment. A hidden cost of cowcalf production is cow depreciation, or the decline in a cow’s value from one year to the next. By strategically marketing later-conceiving cows, Thomas says, producers can help control some of that cost.

C.H. (Clarence Henry) Williams C.H. (Clarence Henry) Williams, Jr., 85, Sedalia, died Tuesday, March 16, 2021 at Sylvia G. Thompson Residence Center.

leader, member and chairman of numerous committees, and helped arrange and sponsor many youth group activities. In addition, he was a long-time choir member.

He was born October 3,1935 in Pettis County, son of Clarence H. and Gladys (Payne) Williams. On December 12, 1954, at East Sedalia Baptist Church, he was united in marriage to Betty Lou Momberg, who preceded him in death.

C.H. is survived by a daughter, Susan Lemler Meyer and her husband Jerry Meyer, of Sedalia; a son, Ted Williams and his wife, Merrilyn, of Sedalia; three granddaughters, Leslie Paredes, of Sedalia; Laura Goss and her husband Jeremy, of Cole Camp; and Melissa Shipman and her husband Wyatt, of Blue Springs; a step-granddaughter, Shelly Miller and her husband Duke, of Ft. Worth, TX; a step-grandson, Brandon Meyer and his wife, Gail, of Sedalia; four greatgrandchildren; and five step-great grandchildren.

C.H. was a 1952 graduate of Smith-Cotton High School, where as a member of the baseball team he played in the 1952 MSHSAA baseball quarterfinals in Sportsman’s Park in St. Louis. Following graduation, C.H. started farming full-time, continuing the dairying partnership he had begun with his father. By 1976, the partnership had evolved from a dairy operation into Williams Family Farms, Inc., a diversified grain and livestock operation. C.H. served as president of William Family Farms, Inc. for more than 40 years, and in spite of the many challenges of operating a successful farming business, there was never a time C.H. regretted choosing this career. He remained actively involved in the Corporation until his death. His passion for farming also led to years of involvement in many farming-related committees and organizations. C.H. served as an ASCS county committeeman, including 9 years as chairman, and as a ASCS community committeeman; a SWCD committeeman; a member of the Pettis County Cattlemen’s Assoc.; a MFA Oil Co. delegate and board member; and a member of the Pettis County Industrial Development Board. In addition, he served in the Missouri National Guard from 1954 – 1961, attaining the rank of Sgt. 1st Class, and serving on active duty during the 1954 Missouri State Penitentiary Riot. C.H. was a member of East Sedalia Baptist Church, where he was ordained as a deacon in 1964. He also served as a Trustee, youth and adult Sunday School

In addition to his wife, C.H. was preceded in death by his sisters, Mary Elizabeth Chaney and her husband Willis, Joann Waters and her husband Joe; Peggy Curran and her husband Jack; brothers-in-law Bill Conklyn and Harold Momberg; and a son-in-law, Paul Lemler. Visitation was held on Friday, March 19, 2021 at Heckart Funeral Home in Sedalia. Funeral services were held on Saturday, March 20, 2021 at the funeral home with burial in Hopewell Cemetery. The service was livestreamed on Heckart Funeral Home’s facebook page. Pallbearers were Sam Young, Jerry Hoehns, Jesse Paredes III, Don Tatman, Roger Waters, and Bruce Wolfe. Honorary pallbearers were Deacons of East Sedalia Baptist Church. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions are suggested to the American Diabetes Association, East Sedalia Baptist Church, or Hopewell Cemetery Association.

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MAY 2021

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MAY 2021

SALE REPORTS GENEPLUS @ Suhn Cattle Co 3-23-21 • Eureka, KS Lots Gross Average 22 Long Yearlings $6,466 118 Yearling $5,816 140 Total Brangus and Ultrablack bulls $828,500 $5,918 Meyer Cattle Co. Sale, 4-2-21 • Curryville, MO 40 Total Reg. Bulls $183,000 42 Total Reg. Females $166,750 82 Reported Sale Total $349,750

$4,575 $3,970 $4,265

Ade Polled Hereford Sale 4-3-21 • Amsterdam, MO 17.75 bulls 20.50 females 38.25 total 8.00 comm. females

$2,743 $2,149 $2,425 $1,356

$48,690 $44,050 $92,740 $10,850

Four State Angus Association Sale 4-3-21 • Springfield, MO 15 Total Reg. Bulls $44,200 44 Total Reg. Females $89,150 59 Reported Sale Total $133,350

$2,946 $2,026 $2,260

Magness Western Slope Bull Sale 4-3-21 • Loma, CO 43 2/3 Bulls $173,550 21 Open Heifers $44,100 64 2/3 Lots $217,650

$3,971 $2,100 $3,763

Gardiner Angus Ranch Sale 4-3-21 • Ashland, KS 352 Reg. Bulls $3,309,500 301 Reg. Females $2,409,250 653 Reg. Live Lots $5,718,750 898 Sale Total $6,285,060

$9,401 $8,004 $8,757 $6,998

Brockmere Farms Inc. Sale 4-5-21 • New Cambria, MO Lots Gross Average 53 Total Reg. Bulls $230,460 $4,348 20 Open Heifers $48,500 $2,425 73 Reported Sale Total $278,960 $3,821 Fink Beef Genetics Sale 4-10-21 • Randolph, KS 59 Total Reg. Bulls $344,000

$5,830

Sydenstricker Genetic Influence Sale 4-13-21 • New Cambria, MO 50 Total Reg. Bulls $252,000 7 Total Reg. Females $18,950 25 Commercial Pairs $72,650 82 Reported Sale Total $343,600

$5,040 $2,707 $2,906 $4,190

New Day Genetics Sale 4-17-21 • Salem, MO 70 Bulls

$5,004

McBee Cattle Company 18th Annual Selection Day 4-17-21 • Fayette, MO 10 Braunvieh Purebred bulls Avg. $4,456 15 McBeef Builder Hybrid bulls Avg. $3,929 25 Total bulls Avg. $4,080 5 Braunvieh Purebred fall bred heifers Avg. $2,545 24 McBeef Builder Hybrid fall bred heifers Avg. $1,883 6 BU Influ halfblood fall bred heifers Avg. $1,908

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SALE CALENDAR

MAY 2021

May 7 May 8 May 10 May 14 May 15 May 21 May 21

Southeast Missouri Show-Me-Select Replacement Heifer Sale, Fruitland, MO Mead Angus Farms Spring Female Sale, Versailles, MO Gardiner Angus Ranch “Meating Demand” Bull Sale, Ashland, KS Show-Me-Select Replacement Heifer Sale, Farmington, MO West Central Missouri Show-Me-Select Replacement Heifer Sale, Kingsville, MO Southwest Missouri Show-Me-Select Replacement Heifer Sale, JRS, Carthage, MO Show-Me-Select Replacement Heifer Sale, Vienna, MO

May 22 May 22 May 22 June 5 June 12 June 24

Soaring Eagle Production Sale, Springfield, MO Great American Pie Annual Limousin Sale, Lebanon, MO Spur Ranch “Back To Grass” Sale, Vinita, OK Northeast Missouri Show-Me-Select Replacement Heifer Sale, Palmyra, MO Missouri Junior Cattlemen’s Association Replacement Heifer Sale, Sedalia, MO Joplin Regional Stockyards Value-Added Sale, Carthage, MO

MU Plant Diagnostic Clinic is Now Open Source: University of Missouri Extension COLUMBIA, Mo. – Like humans, plants can get sick and need someone to diagnose their illnesses, says Peng Tian, the new lab director of the University of Missouri Plant Diagnostic Clinic. The Plant Diagnostic Clinic has served Missourians since 1965 to help clients, including county extension specialists, commercial growers, government agencies and homeowners, identify plant health problems. Tian began as lab director on Feb. 1. He coordinates daily operations of the laboratory, performing diagnoses and participating in training programs for agricultural stakeholders in Missouri. In addition to clinic staff, MU Plant Sciences faculty specializing in agronomy, entomology, horticulture and plant pathology help with identification of pests.

MBC Classified The MBC Classified column appears monthly. Classified advertising is only 50¢ a word. Send your check with your ad to Missouri Beef Cattleman, 2306 Bluff Creek Drive, #100, Columbia, Mo 65201. Deadline 15th of month before an issue.

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Tian came to MU from the University of Florida Plant Diagnostic Center. He grew up in a farm family in China’s Shandong Province, where he studied bioengineering at Shandong Agricultural University. He earned a master’s degree at the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences and a doctorate at the University of Georgia. The clinic is now open yearround to receive samples. Samples can be mailed to the clinic or dropped off in person 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. Visit plantclinic.missouri.edu for instructions on submitting samples. Payment can be made online or by check or money order. You also may take photos of your plants and send them to plantclinic@missouri.edu.

MAY 2021 89

MAY 2021

Advertiser Index

ADM Minerals................................................47 Buffalo Livestock Market................................ 74 Callaway Livestock Center Inc.......................87 Central Missouri Sales Co..............................76 Classified.........................................................89 Clearwater Farm.............................................35 Coon Angus Ranch.........................................35 Durham Simmental Farms.............................18 Ertell Cattle Company....................................43 F&T Livestock Market....................................20 FCS of Missouri..............................................92 Frank and Hazelrigg Angus............................35 Galaxy Beef LLC............................................35 GenePlus.........................................................29 Gerloff Farms..................................................35 Green’s Welding & Sales................................. 14 Hinkle’s Prime Cut Angus..............................35 HydraBed........................................................39 Irsik & Doll Feed Yards...................................91 Jim’s Motors.................................................... 14 Joplin Regional Stockyards.............................13 Kingsville Livestock Auction...........................42 Kranjec Valley Angus Farma..........................35 KT Farms........................................................18 Lucas Cattle Co..............................................18 Marshall & Fenner Farms...............................35 MCA - Junior Show.................................. 45-56 MCA - MCLC................................................79 MCA - Member Benefits ................................81 MCA - Membership Form..............................85 MCA - Membership Signs..............................86 MCA - Native Grassland Pasture Walk..........77 MCA - Presidents Council..............................83 MCA - Show-Me-Select Sale Credit...............82 MCA - Steak Fry........................................57-58 MCA - Top Hand...........................................80 McBee Cattle Co.............................................32 MCF - CLS - Altosid ......................................73 McPherson Concrete Products........................89 Mead Cattle Co...............................................15

Mead Farms....................................................35 Merck Animal Health.....................................27 Merry Meadows Simmental...........................18 Meyer Manufacturing.....................................24 MFA Health Track..........................................59 Missouri Angus Association............................35 Missouri Angus Breeders................................35 Missouri Beef Cattleman magazine................78 Missouri Beef Industry Council...................... 17 Missouri Simmental Association.....................18 Missouri Simmental Breeders.........................18 MLS Tubs.......................................................37 Ory’s O7 Red Angus.......................................68 Oval F Ranch.................................................18 P.H. White.......................................................75 RLE Simmental..............................................18 S&N Partners - John Deere..............................7 Salt Fork - Strobel...........................................61 Sampson Cattle Co.........................................35 Sellers Feedlot................................................. 74 Shoal Creek Land & Cattle.............................18 Slayton Farms.................................................18 Soaring Eagle of the Ozarks Sale.................... 21 South Central Regional Stockyards................36 Southwest Missouri SMS Sale........................26 Spur Ranch Sale ............................................33 Square B Ranch/Quality Beef........................35 Steaks Alive.....................................................18 Superior Steel Sales.........................................43 Sydenstricker Genetics....................................35 Touchstone Energy..........................................69 Valley Oaks Angus..........................................35 Weiker Angus Ranch......................................35 West Central SMS Sale...................................40 Westway Feeds..................................................9 Wheeler Auctions & Real Estate.....................16 Wheeler Livestock Market..............................76 Mike Williams.................................................16 Y-Tex.............................................................2, 3

MAY 2021

May 2021 - Missouri Beef Cattleman

Articles inside

Getting Ahead of the Summer Flies

Capitol Update

Beef Checkoff News

What to Know About Weak Calf Syndrome

MCA President’s Perspective

What’s Cooking at the Beef House

Straight Talk: Mike Deering