Kentucky Cattlemen’s Association 176 Pasadena Drive Lexington, KY 40503
NON PROFIT ORG U.S. POSTAGE PAID LOUISVILLE KY PERMIT #879
19099798,(E242) This Bennett Southside daughter with her heifer calf (19590161, 930) by Southern Charm from Heritage Farm will be one of the sale features.
SALE SPONSOR:
Central Kentucky Angus Assoc
Saturday • 1 PM
(EST)
January 25, 2020
President: Henry Bryan Smith, Russell S Vice President: Adam Chunglo, Harrods Treasurer: John Goggin, Danville, Secretary: Joe Goggin, Danville, Junior Advisor: Ann & Diana Covell, Harr Past President: Bob Clark, Harrodsbu
Central Kentucky Angus Sales Pavilion Danville, KY
(GPS Address: 2286 Fork Church Road, Lancaster, KY 40444)
Sale details at www.dievertsales.com SALE MANAGER:
Tim Dievert
Live internet bidding through
SALE DAY PHONES: 859-238-3195 or 859-583-0364
Auctioneer: Eddie Burks 270-991-6398
478 Dry Fork Rd • Danville, KY 40422 Office (859) 236-4591 Mobile (859) 238-3195 email: tdievert@dievertsales.com Online sale book available at: www.dievertsales.com Like us on Facebook
221 st Sale Sponsored by the Central Kentucky Angus Association
2
COW COUNTRY •
JANUARY 2020
Heritage 7080 Conanga 909 19442645 This heifer is being donated by Heritage Farm with 100% of the sale proceeds going to the CKAA Scholarship fund. She will sell on 1-25-20!
• A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E K E N T U C K Y C AT T L E M E N ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N
Pleasant Hill Farms’
EARLY
MARCH MADNESS BULL AND HEIFER SALE
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 29, 2020 at 1:30pm Complimentary lunch served at noon.
United Producers Inc. Livestock Center (One mile off I-65 at Exit 28 in Bowling Green, Kentucky)
PHF/LS 872 of 564 Pathfinder
PHFC Revenue 856F
AAA 19424782
6
1.5
.49
.55
58
116 .46 12
.008
72
97
39 45
-22 143
PHF/LS 870 of 350 Insight 1.0
.01
.94
56 .009
99
1.13 5
61
100
26 27
8.2
2.4
64.6 94.5 3.0 25.2 57.4 16.9
-.03 -.083 .68 116.5 64.8
AAA 19438919
4 .82
PHFC/WAM Sledgehammer 861F
AAA 19419818
5
PHF DHF Absolute 8035
ASA 3566863
127
9.7 1.7 -.11
71.5 109.1 4.0 21.0 56.7 13.7 -.113
.82
113 68.4
Gil, Mary, Corbin, Caroline, and Catherine Cowles 508 Richpond Rockfield Road Rockfield, Kentucky 42274 Email: pleasanthillfarms@twc.com Gil: (270) 843-9021 or (270) 791-3526 Corbin: (270) 991-2534 Harvey Mast: (270) 791-6873
.54
74
123 .71 11
.025
80
99
24 -15 60
158
PHF/LS 876 of 550 Vance
ASA 3629377
-14
1.6
AAA 19419821
8
0
61
.47
.71
.014
113 .18 12 73
79
30 -12 46
125
SELLING 75 LOTS OF ANGUS, SIMANGUS, & SIMMENTAL BULLS PLUS 60 COMMERCIAL HEIFERS
FOR A SALE BOOK, CONTACT ANY OF THE EARLY MARCH MADNESS TEAM MEMBERS
COW COUNTRY •
JANUARY 2020
• A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E K E N T U C K Y C AT T L E M E N ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N
3
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Green River Livestock Campbellsville, KY
PolyDome Bulk Bins
COLUMNISTS 7 Tim White: President’s Thoughts 8 Ryan Quarles: Commissioner’s Corner 10 Dave Maples: Start 2020 with Us at the KCA Convention 12 Baxter Black: Leroy and Tom 14 Nathan Lawson: The Value of a Dollar (part 1) 38 Dr. Michelle Arnold: What’s in Your Baleage? 78 Les Anderson: Heifer Development
Translucent polyethylene allows you to see material level Made from high-impact, UV stabilized polyethylene Corrosion resistant Easy cleaning Smooth surface reduces bridging Large, vented filler cap with pull rope for ground access Sturdy outside ladder 10 year warranty!
Bins in Stock & Ready to Move!
FEATURE STORIES 20
Structures for Beef Cattle
22
Support the Birthing and Bonding Chain
24
China Fuels October Pork Exports; Beef Exports Down from 2018
26
Traveling Cow-Calf Profitability Conferences Kick Off Dec. 17
30
Kentucky Court of Appeals Rules: Farm Trailer is Illegal Billboard
32
Local Kentucky Cattlemen’s Ground Beef Hits $1 Million in Total
Farm Gate Sales
34
Kentucky Launches Selling Farmers Tax Credit Program to Sustain
Agricultural Industry
36
Welcome Danny Coy!
40
Agricultural Receipts Hold Steady for Third Year, Net Incomes Up
42
U.S. Leads the Way in Responsible and Sustainable Beef Production
44
USDA Announces Appointments to the Cattlemen’s Beef Promotion
and Research Board
46
2020 KCA Convention and Ag Industry Trade Show
53
Captivating Speakers to Share Experiences, Knowledge at 2020
Cattle Industry Convention
54
Kentucky 4-H Livestock Judging Team Wins National Championship
64
What’s in Your Wallet?
65
Incorporating Genomics Testing into the EPDs of Bulls Before Pur-
Give Darrel a call for all of your feed bin & cattle handling equipment needs.
Darrel Eastridge 270-469-5389
chasing 67
Beef Checkoff: The Decision Makers - Part 2
69
Top Livestock Show Attracts Best of the Best
Eby Aluminum Trailers
16-17 County News 18-19 NCBA Legislative Update 28-29 Economic & Policy Update 58-59 Membership 60-61 Kentucky Beef Council 62-63 Kentucky Beef Network 73 Kentucky Angus Association News 76 Calendar of Events 76 Advertisers Index 77 Market Report 77 Classifieds
4
Gooseneck steel and aluminum trailers
HAYES TRAILER SALES INC Russellville, Kentucky 800-766-7034 hayestrailersales.com COW COUNTRY •
JANUARY 2020
• A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E K E N T U C K Y C AT T L E M E N ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N
OAK HOLLOW PERFORMANCE TESTED PUREBRED ANGUS CATTLE
If they don’t use their own bulls why should you?
There are a lot of places to buy bulls in Kentucky. There are over 725 active members of the American Angus Association in Kentucky. That means there are well over 1,000 breeders in all breeds. In conversation you never hear about anyone with “bad” bulls. Everyone does a “good job” and every bull they sell will leave “good daughters.” All the calves will even “sell good” at the sale barn. Every breeder says they strive to produce functional females that wean pounds of calf. However, most of my new bull buyers each year are not new to the industry and have actually had cattle for many years. Often there was a problem with the bull they bought somewhere else previously so they are looking for a new source for bulls. They often have a critique the foot structure of the bull, fertility of the daughters or quality of customer service when there was a problem. All bulls and programs are obviously not equal. I have always been told you don’t buy a bull. You buy a program. You find a program that breeds with the same objectives as you and buy your bulls there as long as those objectives align. When I evaluate a breeding program I start with very simple criteria. Do they select for traits of economic importance, run their cows in a commercial environment and do they use their own bulls? If a breeder is not using a large percentage of their own bulls why should you? That is not a criticism of any particular breeders but an honest question. It is easy to know if they are using their own bulls or simply breeding AI to the bull of the month. Open up their sale catalog and do you see their prefixes on the top side of the pedigree or someone else’s? If a breeder does not believe in his own product enough to use it then why do you trust your $10,000-$15,000 per cow investment to their bull. For over 40 years we have bet on ourselves and used a higher percentage of our own bulls than any other breeders. We use our own bulls because we believe in them and their ability to create the most profitable cow herd anywhere. We believe our bulls sire daughters than generate the greatest profit at every single marketing point in the supply chain. We breed over 400 females in a year and over 90% of them raise calves sired by Oak Hollow bulls. We trust our bulls with our $10,000-$15,000 per cow investment and have for over 40 years. When you are bull buying this spring ask yourself do you trust your cow herd to a program that doesn’t do the same. Joe Lowe II M.S. Agricultural Economics University of Tennessee, Knoxville 2013
COW COUNTRY •
JANUARY 2020
2020 FIRST CHOICE BULL SALE
MONDAY, MARCH 30TH, 2020 - 5:30 PM CDT 400 OAK HOLLOW DR. - SMITHS GROVE, KY FREE DELIVERY ON SALE DAY PURCHASES ASK ABOUT FINANCING OPTIONS KENNETH D. LOWE (270) 202-7186 JOE K. LOWE II (270) 202-4399 WWW.OAKHOLLOWANGUS.COM
• A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E K E N T U C K Y C AT T L E M E N ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N
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K E N T U C K Y CAT T L E M E N ’ S AS S O C I AT I O N 2 019 L E A D E R S H I P KCA REGIONAL DIRECTORS: REGION 1
Daniel Hayden, VP*.................(270) 570-2815 Bobby Bell................................(270) 547-8547 Gary Woodall...........................(270) 725-0819 Ricky Haynes............................(270) 945-9057 Don Pemberton........................(270) 889-3885 Wayne Johnson.......................(270) 303-6354 John Walpole..........................(270) 542-7534 Martin Hayden........................(270) 281-4076 John (JJ) Tucker....................(270) 617-0301 Dennis Wilson.........................(270) 952-1714 Caleb Jenkin...........................(270) 952-0767
REGION 2
KCA 2019 EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE OFFICERS: PRESIDENT
TREASURER
Tim White 3664 Military Pike Lexington, KY 40513 (859) 509-5401
Ken Adams 90 E Horseshoe Ave. Upton, KY 42784 (270) 734-1443
PRESIDENT ELECT
PAST PRESIDENT
Steve Dunning 8200 Antioch Road Hopkinsville, KY 42240 (270) 498-8180
Bobby Foree 2440 Eminence Road Eminence, KY 40019 (502) 939-4607
VICE PRESIDENT Chris Cooper 2140 Tates Creek Road Richmond, KY 40475 (859) 200-7711
KCA PROGRAM CHAIRMAN Jeff Pettit 5745 US Highway 41 S Seebree, KY 42455
(270) 836-2963
KBC CHAIRMAN
Andy Bishop 6135 High Grove Road Cox’s Creek, KY 40013 (502) 350-7609
KBN CHAIRMAN
Cary King 250 Bright Leaf Drive Harrodsburg, KY 40330 (859) 734-2173
KCA’S PAST PRESIDENTS: 1972-73
Jere Caldwell† - Boyle
2001
Larry Clay - Perry
1974-77
Smith T. Powell† - Lincoln
2002
Jack Kimbrough† - Shelby
1978-79
Larry Lovell - Union
2003
Mark Williams - Crittenden
1980-82
John Masters† - Mason
2004
Paul Napier - Lincoln
1983-85
Seldon Hail† - Laurel
2005
Eddie Young - Washington
1986-87
Bob Vickery† - Wayne
2006
Greg Ritter† - Barren
1988
Glenn Mackie - Bourbon
2007
Don Pemberton - Christian
1989
Dale Lovell - Muhlenberg
2008
Billy Glenn Turpin - Madison
1990
Steve Henshaw† - Union
2009
Scotty Parsons - Christian
1991
Jerry Fraim - Grayson
2010
Corinne Kephart - Shelby
1992
Glen Massengale† - Wayne
2011
Greg Robey - Mercer
1993
Dell King - Christian
2012
Mike Bach - Bath
1994
Kenneth Lowe - Warren
2013
Don Reynolds - Hart
1995
Dr. J.L.Cole - Monroe
2014
Steve Downs - Marion
1996
Harvey Mitchell - Mercer
2015
Gary Woodall - Logan
1997
Jim Naive† - Spencer
2016
David Lemaster - Clark
1998
Shelby Hughes - Logan
2017
Chuck Crutcher - Hardin
1999
Hoppy Lovell - Barren
2018
Bobby Foree - Henry
2000
Charles Miller - Jessamine
†(Deceased)
6
COW COUNTRY •
Joe Lowe, VP*..........................(270) 202-4399 Craig Thompson......................(270) 590-5174 Trent Jones.............................(270) 590-5266 Chuck Crutcher.......................(270) 272-6269 Alison Brockman....................(270) 403-3205 Steven Green..........................(270) 528-1720 Reva Richardson.....................(270) 735-2959 Mike Bullock..........................(270) 563-5012 Dr. Kenneth Green...............(270) 589-7175 Adam Maulden.......................(270) 590-1005 Kirk Cecil.................................(270) 692-7698 Hunter Galloway....................(731) 332-0098 Rayetta Boone........................(270) 230-5488 Gerry Bowman........................(270) 427-6922 Adam Estes..............................(270) 537-3761 Phyllis Gentry..........................(502) 331-1146
REGION 3
Danny Cooper, VP*...................(606) 782-4809 Chris Browning........................(502) 682-4535 Wanda Hawkins.......................(502) 321-5602 Irvin Kupper.............................(502) 807-5617
Allan Bryant..............................(502) 548-1379 Kevin Perkins............................(502) 269-7189 Larry Bryant.............................(502) 706-1777 Maynard Stetten......................(502) 609-4986 Jerry Oak.................................(502) 525-7248 John Allison.............................(502) 220-3170 Lincoln Clifford........................(859) 954-0102
REGION 4
Jeremy Jones, VP*.................(859) 749-2233 Lisa Baesler.............................(859) 509-5020 David Lemaster.......................(859) 749-0258 Ron Ray...................................(859) 825-8516 Bo Tate....................................(859) 661-2325 Donovan Pigg..........................(859) 749-9675 Randy Werner........................(859) 771-5280 Danielle Harmon.....................(606) 748-8059 Ronnie Lowe...........................(606) 782-5058 Clay Wills.................................(859) 749-8248 Jason Crowe............................(859) 582-0761
REGION 5
Phillip Reese, VP*......................(859) 339-0450 Herman Benge.........................(606) 862-6451 Steve Downs...........................(859) 805-1278 Brent Woodrum......................(859) 397-1078 Ian Thomas..............................(859) 613-2453 Anne Bays................................(615) 478-8450 Danny Ray Spalding................(859) 336-0444 Greg Robey...............................(859) 734-0067 Eddie Young.............................(859) 262-5682 Adam Chunglo.........................(859) 613-2985 C. Mike Spalding....................(270) 669-6587 Tommy Glasscock....................(270) 692-4336 * Denotes member of Executive committee
VOLUME 33 • ISSUE 1 176 PASADENA DRIVE • LEXINGTON, KY 40503 • PHONE: (859) 278-0899 FAX: (859) 260-2060 • WWW.KYCATTLE.ORG • INFO@KYCATTLE.ORG Executive Vice President Dave Maples
KBC Director of Consumer Affairs Anna Hawkins
Director of Kentucky Beef Council Nathan Lawson
Membership Coordinator Nikki Whitaker
Staff Accountant Kelly Tucker
Publication Coordinator Carey Brown
Director of Kentucky Beef Network Becky Thompson
Graphic Designer Todd Brown
KBN Industry Coordinator Dan Miller
Office Manager Mackenzie Miller
KBC Director of Education Niki Ellis
Video Production Specialist Danny Coy
KBC Director of Product Development Katelyn Hawkins
National Advertising Sales, Livestock Advertising Network, Debby Nichols (859) 321-8770, Cathy Campbell (609) 581-7644
COW COUNTRY NEWS is published monthly by THE KENTUCKY CATTLEMEN’S ASSOCIATION. The publisher reserves the right to refuse any material which he feels is unsuitable for the publication. Although the highest journalistic ethics will be maintained, the KENTUCKY CATTLEMEN’S ASSOCIATION limits its responsibilities for any errors, inaccuracies, or misprints in advertising or editorial copy. Advertisers and advertising agencies assume liability for all content of advertisements made against the publisher. JANUARY 2020
• A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E K E N T U C K Y C AT T L E M E N ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N
37THANNUAL ANNUAL 37TH 37TH ANNUAL FAYETTECOUNTY COUNTYFARM FARMBUREAU BUREAU FAYETTE FAYETTE COUNTY FARM BUREAU FARM MACHINERY CONSIGNMENT AUCTION FARM MACHINERY CONSIGNMENT AUCTION
PRESIDENT’S THOUGHTS TIM WHITE Kentucky Cattlemen’s Association President
As we begin the new year, I would like to start by saying how honored I am to have served as your 2019 KCA President. This has been a very challenging yet rewarding experience. It has forced me to step out of my comfort zone at times, and opened my eyes to many new ideas. I have loved being able to travel across the state, meeting with new and familiar faces to discuss current issues and plans for the future. Attending numerous county meetings has instilled a sense of comfort knowing that you all are as passionate and motivated as I am to continue improving our flourishing industry. I have also had the opportunity to see the bright futures ahead of our youth, and I feel very confident that Kentucky Cattlemen’s Association will be in good hands. As I mentioned earlier this year, we cannot forget to invest in the younger generations in order to mentor and equip them to follow in our footsteps. I also would like to encourage the youth to take the initiative to get involved; by doing so you will gain the knowledge and experience needed to prepare you to enter and thrive in the beef industry. I feel that we have had a very productive year as we have started and completed many projects. One of the main things we focused on this year was a LongRange Plan. The main goal of this was to create a new vision for the Kentucky Cattlemen’s and outline our priorities. This helped us focus on the urgent needs of our industry and created an organized plan for the projects we hope
to complete in the future. One of our major accomplishments this year was the passing of House Bill 311. Many exciting challenges lay ahead for our association such as the Innovation Center, searching for a new office location, working with the Kentucky Department of Agriculture on a local packing plant, and several other projects to improve the future of the KCA. We have dedicated long hours of hard work in order to allow our industry to become more efficient and productive. To the KCA staff: I would like to thank you all for the endless amount of work that you all accomplish every single day. I have enjoyed getting to work with you all and share our ideas for the future. We as beef producers are blessed to have dedicated leaders like you all that always keep our best interest in mind. Thank you for all that you have done and will continue to do, you all are the ones that make it all possible. I would especially like to thank Dave for his dedication, his relentless work ethic and visionary ideas and goals that has made the Kentucky Cattleman’s association an industry leader. This past year has been nothing short of a blessing, and the memories and connections I have made are irreplaceable. I hope that during my time of service I have at least made a difference in some way. Thank you all for the endless support. I am excited to see where the KCA goes from here, I know that the future is bright.
FARM MACHINERY CONSIGNMENT AUCTION WWW.FAYETTECOFARMBUREAU.COM WWW.FAYETTECOFARMBUREAU.COM
WWW.FAYETTECOFARMBUREAU.COM
ALL TYPES TYPES OF OF FARM FARM EQUIPMENT EQUIPMENT ALL LAWN & & GARDEN GARDEN EQUIPMENT EQUIPMENT LAWN ALL TYPES OF FARM EQUIPMENT 10% COMMISSION • $30 MINIMUM PER LOT • $500 MAXIMUM PER LOT • NO BUYERS PREMIUM 10% COMMISSION • $30 MINIMUM PER LOT • $500 MAXIMUM PER LOT • NO BUYERS PREMIUM $30 BUYBACK FEE INCL. TRACTORS • $50 BUYBACK FEE TRUCKS & BOATS $30 BUYBACK FEE INCL. TRACTORS • $50 BUYBACK FEE TRUCKS & BOATS
LAWN & GARDEN EQUIPMENT ALL TITLES MUST BE IN HAND AT CHECKIN, NO EXCEPTIONS ALL TITLES MUST BE IN HAND AT CHECKIN, NO EXCEPTIONS
10% COMMISSION • $30 MINIMUM PER LOT • $500 MAXIMUM PER LOT • NO BUYERS PREMIUM
February 29th 29th 2020 2020 || @ @ 8:30 8:30 AM AM February
$30 BUYBACK FEE INCL. TRACTORS • $50 BUYBACK FEE TRUCKS & BOATS KENTUCKYHORSE HORSEPARK PARK KENTUCKY ALL TITLES MUST BE IN HAND AT CHECKIN, NO EXCEPTIONS 4089 IRONWORKS PIKE LEXINGTON, KY 40511 4089 IRONWORKS PIKE LEXINGTON, KY 40511 EXIT 120, I-75 IRONWORKS PIKE EXIT 120, I-75 IRONWORKS PIKE $5 PARKING DAY OF SALE • FREE SHUTTLE $5 PARKING DAY OF SALE • FREE SHUTTLE
February 29th 2020 | @ 8:30 AM ACCEPTING EQUIPMENT CHECKOUT TIMES ACCEPTING EQUIPMENT
JANUARY 2020
Saturday, February 29th | After the sale until 6pm Saturday, February 29th | After the sale until 6pm Sunday, March 1st | 9am - 6pm Sunday, March 1st | 9am - 6pm 4089 IRONWORKS LEXINGTON, 40511 Monday, PIKE March 2nd | 8am KY - Noon Monday, March 2nd | 8am - Noon
KENTUCKY HORSE PARK
NO EQUIPMENT WILL BE ACCEPTED THE DAY OF THE SALE NO EQUIPMENT WILL BE ACCEPTED THE DAY OF THE SALE
ALL ITEMS MUST BE REMOVED NO LATER THAN NOON ON MONDAY, EXIT 120, MUST I-75 BE IRONWORKS PIKETHAN NOON ON MONDAY, ALL ITEMS REMOVED NO LATER
MARCH 2nd! MARCH 2nd! $5 PARKING DAY OF SALE • FREE SHUTTLE ASK US ABOUT DONATING YOUR EQUIPMENT ASK US ABOUT DONATING YOUR EQUIPMENT NO TOBACCO STICKS, FLOAT TRAYS, CAMPER TOPS OR JUNK. AUCTIONEER HAS THE RIGHT TO REFUSE ANY ITEM. NO TOBACCO STICKS, FLOAT TRAYS, CAMPER TOPS OR JUNK. AUCTIONEER HAS THE RIGHT TO REFUSE ANY ITEM.
ACCEPTING EQUIPMENT
CHECKOUT TIMES
SWINEBROAD-DENTON, INC. SWINEBROAD-DENTON, INC. WALT ROBERTSON, PRINCIPAL AUCTIONEER.464
AUCTIONEER.464 Thursday, February 27thWALT ROBERTSON, PRINCIPAL Saturday, February 29th | After the sale until 6pm OPEN TO THE PUBLIC! Friday, February 28th OPEN TO THE PUBLIC!
Sunday, March 1st | 9am - 6pm
QUESTIONS? DROP US A LINE QUESTIONS? DROP US A LINE
9 AM - 5 PM
-CARRIE MCINTOSH—FARM BUREAU 859.253.0023 Monday, March 2nd | 8am - Noon -CARRIE MCINTOSH—FARM BUREAU 859.253.0023 TODD CLARK 859.621.6471 | BOB JAMES 859.229.4642 NO EQUIPMENT WILL BE ACCEPTED THETODD DAY CLARK OF THE859.621.6471 SALE ALL ITEMS MUST BE REMOVED NO LATER THAN NOON ON MONDAY, | BOB JAMES 859.229.4642
MARCH 2nd! ASK US ABOUT DONATING YOUR EQUIPMENT NO TOBACCO STICKS, FLOAT TRAYS, CAMPER TOPS OR JUNK. AUCTIONEER HAS THE RIGHT TO REFUSE ANY ITEM. SWINEBROAD-DENTON, INC. WALT ROBERTSON, PRINCIPAL AUCTIONEER.464 OPEN TO THE PUBLIC!
QUESTIONS? DROP US A LINE
-CARRIE MCINTOSH—FARM BUREAU 859.253.0023 -
TODD CLARK 859.621.6471 | BOB JAMES 859.229.4642
As always, have a blessed month.
Stone Gate Escort 3867
COW COUNTRY •
CHECKOUT TIMES
Thursday, February 27th Thursday, February 27th Friday, February 28th Friday, February 28th 9 AM - 5 PM 9 AM - 5 PM
• A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E K E N T U C K Y C AT T L E M E N ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N
CED +3
BW +2.6
WW +50
YW +94
Milk +18
7
COMMISSIONER’S CORNER
Angus. America’s Breed.
RYAN QUARLES
Alex Tolbert,
Commissioner of Agriculture The Kentucky General Assembly will meet for its 60-day session this winter, and my team and I will work with legislators on several issues affecting Kentucky agriculture and the Kentucky Department of Agriculture (KDA). At the top of the list is the KDA’s budget for the next two years. The department’s budget has been sliced significantly over the last two decades, while at the same time the KDA’s required contributions to the Kentucky Retirement Systems have skyrocketed in recent years. As a consequence, we have a little more than half the number of employees compared to a generation ago. We have managed to do more with less thanks to technological advances and the dedication of our hard-working employees, but in the last few years we have taken on added responsibilities such as the hemp research pilot program and administration of the Food Safety Modernization Act’s Produce Safety Rule in Kentucky. I will
Regional Manager
work closely with my former colleagues in the General Assembly over the next three months to make sure the KDA has the funding to do its job. Another priority will be amending Kentucky’s hemp laws and regulations to align with the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) interim final rule, which is already in effect. We are in active discussions with USDA and are optimistic that the meaningful dialogue between our two agencies will result in Kentucky retaining its edge as a leading hemp state. As of this writing, we are conducting a comprehensive review of Kentucky’s program and the interim final rule. Once that is complete, we will be seeking input from Kentucky growers, processors, and industry stakeholders as part of this process. This is another step toward our goal of making Kentucky the epicenter of the nation’s hemp industry. We will ask the General Assembly to maintain full funding for the Farms to
Food Banks Trust Fund and create a new line item for Kentucky Hunters for the Hungry. It’s an unfortunate fact that one in six Kentuckians – including one in five Kentucky children – are food insecure. That’s why I launched the Kentucky Hunger Initiative in 2016 – to look for ways to reduce hunger in Kentucky. The Farms to Food Banks Trust Fund and Kentucky Hunters for the Hungry are vital to our work, as is the Kentucky Beef Council (KBC). Our friends at the KBC sell T-shirts during May Beef Month to raise money for Feeding Kentucky and in 2018 donated 2,000 pounds of Kentucky Cattlemen’s Ground Beef to God’s Pantry Food Bank. Thank you for being a part of this important endeavor. A democracy can succeed only when citizens keep themselves informed and take action. I urge everyone to invite your legislator for a farm visit and encourage you to stay in touch with them on the issues that matter to you – including the future of Kentucky agriculture.
Kentucky Ohio Tennessee
A reliable business partner is difficult to come by. Contact Alex Tolbert to locate Angus genetics, select marketing options tailored to your needs, and to access American Angus Association® programs and services. Put the business breed to work for you.
Contact Regional Manager Alex Tolbert: Cell: 706-338-8733 atolbert@angus.org
3201 Frederick Ave. | St. Joseph, MO 64506 816.383.5100 | www.ANGUS.org © 2019-2020 American Angus Association
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COW COUNTRY •
JANUARY 2020
• A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E K E N T U C K Y C AT T L E M E N ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N
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COW COUNTRY •
JANUARY 2020
• A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E K E N T U C K Y C AT T L E M E N ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N
9
FROM DAVE’S DESK
Black
S TA R T YO U R N E W Y E A R W I T H U S AT T H E 2 0 2 0 K CA C O N V E N T I O N
P ro d u c t i o n S a l e Saturday, MARCH 21st • NOON CT
6th annual
L . D. B ROW N AG R IC U LT U R A L E X P O SI T ION C E N T E R Western K Y Un iver sity B ow ling Gre en , KY
DAVE MAPLES Executive Vice President The year 2020. That sounded so far away at one point in my life. It is hard to think that it has been 20 years since the night that the clocks moved to the year 2000. Remember the talk about how the computers and electronics were not going to work? But we have made it just fine. I sure hope you will make time to attend the 2020 KCA convention. The agenda is filled with people coming from all areas of the U.S. to present a very strong agenda. The two-day event starts with the Beef Efficiency Conference where the agenda is comprised of a starstudded line up. Kentucky native Dr. Dan Givens from Auburn University and now the newly named Dean of the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine at Virginia Tech will anchor this portion of the conference. The theme of the morning’s education session will focus on calf health. Dr. Givens currently serves as the associate dean for academic affairs at Auburn University, where he is also a professor in the Department of Pathobiology. Dr. Givens has played a bigger role in many of your cattle programs than most of you realize. Dr. Givens has been the connection between The Commonwealth of Kentucky’s Veterinary students and Auburn. The Kentucky Food animal industry will miss Dr. Givens being at Auburn. Please come out and thank him for the nice job that he has done. Also, on the Agenda with Dr. Givens will be Dr. David Smith From the Mississippi State Vet School. His topic will be Managing for Health: Anticipating and avoiding Health Problems at calving time. Dr. Jason Smith from Texas A & M will address the issue of winter time Nutritional Management: Considerations for Optimizing Cowherd Productivity and Calf Health. Colin Woodall the newly appointed CEO 10
IS THE Color
Approximately 100 Lots
of NCBA will be on the agenda on Friday and Greg Haines the new CEO of the Cattlemen’s Beef Board also will be on the agenda. So, if you have questions about how the operations of these two national organizations are managed this will be your opportunity to ask questions. Also, Dr. Sara Place now with Elanco Animal Health will address the topic of animal agriculture in a sustainable food system. The forage portion is comprised of more recognizable names but names with national prominence. Dr. Garry Lacefield is one of my all-time favorite people and the wealth of knowledge that he has in the forage world is nearly unmatched. He will team up with Dr. Ray Smith, Dr. Michael Flythe and Dr. Chris Teutsch, all from the University of Kentucky. Looking into 2020, from what I am reading and hearing from the people that study the numbers, the cattle numbers indicate optimism for the coming year. Both cattlemen and dairymen rigidly culled herds in 2019 because of low prices and small to no returns. The projections are that in 2019, both beef and dairy cow slaughter will be down 3% from a year earlier. This will be the fifth straight year of increased cow slaughter. Not only have cattlemen been culling herds harder in 2019 they retained significantly fewer heifers from the 2018 calf crop for replacements. So, if all things work in our favor with a smaller cow herd and the optimism in relations to the export markets, we could be looking at a better year in regards to cattle prices.
ANGUS & BLACK HEREFORD CATTLE LIVE BROADCAST & BIDDING ONLINE
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Tim & Teresa Tarter 606-305-2289 2616 Hwy 1664 Nancy, KY 42544 ngsstriper@hotmail.com
View sale photos & videos at WWW.TRIPLETBLACKCATTLE.COM
24th Annual Smithland Angus Bull & Female Sale
Friday, March 13, 2020 • 6:30 P.M. CDT Russell County Stockyard Russell Springs, KY More details in the February & March issues of Cow Country News
Smithland Angus Farm
Again, I sure hope you come to the KCA convention and trade show. There are several reasons to attend. You will learn something and have the opportunity to network with friends and meet new cattlemen. You have a very good association and I personally welcome you to Convention 2020.
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JANUARY 2020
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COW COUNTRY •
JANUARY 2020
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ON THE EDGE OF COMMON SENSE
L E R OY A N D TO M BAXTER BLACK, DVM W WW. BA X T ERBL ACK.COM
Everybody has a Christmas that stands out in their memory like dandruff on Superman’s cape! Mine was several years ago. Bah Humbug Bill, the cow buyer made a deal on a set of cows down below Snowville. Leroy, Tom, and I were to go down, work’em and ship’em back home. Bah Humbug set it up for December 23. He, of course would not be able to be there to help. Leroy and Tom were both members of the Owyhee County Sheriffs Possum. We borrowed Albert’s new blue pickup and headed out. Leroy was raised down in the country where we were goin’. He was driving and took a few shortcuts. We were on a side road going toward Strevell and Leroy had ol’ Blue kicked up to 85 mph. We cautioned him about speeding. “No Sweat,” he said. “The police have never patrolled this ol’ road.” Ten minutes later red and blue flashing lights reflected in the rear view mirror. “Snow plow?” asked Tom. Leroy pulled over and stomped back to the state patrol car. He returned, started up and drove on in silence. “Did you show him yer deputy sheriff’s badge, Leroy,” “We asked. “Yea,” he said. “I told’em I was takin’ these two lunatics to the nuthouse down south. One of ‘em thinks he’s a vetinary and the other thinks he’s a cowboy!” The ticket cost him $45! Leroy suggested I buy the gas and he’d buy us dinner at the finest restaurant in Tremonton. He asked Tom to pick up the motel bill and promised he’d treat us to a meal fit for a king! We cleaned up and went with him to the finest dining place in
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town. We were in a festive mood. Holly and Christmas music was everywhere. The café even had its own Santa who gave candy to the kids. “Git anything you want, boys, “Leroy encouraged us. “It’s on me!” We ordered steak and lobster with all the trimmings and polished off a mince pie. Santa came over and gave us candy. We thanked Leroy for his generosity. “Check please,” he said smiling and picking his teeth. He patted his pocket confidently. Then he patted his other hip pocket. Then his front pocket and his shirt. He ransacked his coat pockets! He looked up with a look of desperation on his stricken face. “I forgot my wallet!” Next mornin’ on the way out to the ranch we stopped for clipper blades. Tom bought a new pair of blue handy man gloves with little white speckles on them. At the ranch Leroy was mouthin’ and puttin’ in Ritchey ear tags; bloody work. I was preg checkin; messy work. Tom was brandin’, but he was still wearin’ his old yellow gloves with holes in the fingers. He was savin’ his new ones. I put on the left one and gave the right to Leroy. After workin’ an hour Tom noticed my left hand. “I’ve got gloves just like that. Only mine aren’t covered with cow pucky,” he said. He noticed Leroy’s gloved right hand which was caked with blood. The light slowly dawned. “I quit!” He said. It was the third time he’d quit since 8:30 that morning! I never worried. Those two fellers had the perfect arrangement; nobody else would work for Leroy and nobody else would hire Tom!” Merry Christmas to y’all, especially you Leroy and Tom!
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9/3/19 11:08 PM
CHECKING ON THE CHECK-OFF
T H E VA L U E O F A D O L L A R VISIT US TODAY! ALL AGES WELCOME • SCHEDULE A GROUP VISIT AND CHOOSE YOUR LESSON PLAN • CATERING IS AVAILABLE
THE YARDS is an education center focusing on the science and practices of the beef industry. Educational opportunities provide a unique learning experience based on its location in the Blue Grass Regional Stockyards Marketplace. This environment fosters complex thinking, experiential learning, and life skill application.
NELLIS@KYCATTLE.ORG (859) 382-4303
NATHAN LAWSON Director of Kentucky Beef Council If you’ve had the privilege of cutting tobacco, cleaning a calf stall, hauling square baled hay, milking cows, or maybe shoveling ear corn from a crib for a day’s pay then chances are you understand the value of a dollar. I’m thankful for similar experiences in my own life. I remember vividly one of my first paying jobs was following the cultivating tractor early in the season uncovering tobacco. The pay? A quarter a row. Looking back, these experiences proved to be of greater worth than the wages! There is no doubt, that each of us have a similar story. This common ground of finding the value in challenging, gritty experiences is one of the core threads running through our agricultural community that unites us. For your Beef Council, the value of a dollar is about the hardworking, passionate beef producers each dollar represents. Our motivation and desire to responsibly carry out the work of your Checkoff is rooted in our respect for and commitment to you. Understanding the value of a dollar is something we take very seriously. The Kentucky beef Checkoff plays an integral role for our industry in “promoting and stimulating, by research, market development, and education the use and sale, domestic and foreign, of bovine animal products” (KRS247.610). Created in 1976, Kentucky’s promotion of the beef cattle industry act was our original state Checkoff program, predating the Federal Beef Promotion Act and subsequent federal Checkoff that we passed in 1988; at which time the original state Checkoff was suspended. However, In November of 2014 a referendum was held statewide that resulted in the implementation of the current one-dollar state checkoff program, passed by a majority vote of Kentucky’s beef producers. Communicating the value of our state beef Checkoff investments is important. As your Beef Council, we are working hard to wisely invest your state Checkoff dollar in ways that will capture the most value. Understandably, one of the questions we sometimes hear is, “What
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One farm is now responsible for feeding 166 people in the United States and globally! Fewer than 1% of the state and national population is involved in producing beef. are you doing with our state Checkoff dollar”? The goal of this series of articles is to answer that question. Over the course of the next year, on a quarterly basis, you’ll have the opportunity to read about ‘The value of a dollar’, as we highlight the work of your state Checkoff. Through this series we’ll cover where and how state Checkoff dollars are used to accomplish it’s intended purpose. The key areas we’ll focus on will include: beef promotion, education, global marketing, market development, and research. I believe you will be pleased. The collective voice of our beef industry is our Checkoff dollars working together for the benefit of us all. Kentucky’s beef Checkoff has a strong
history of advocating for beef and beef production to a growing population that is increasingly disconnected from the farm and the production of their food. One farm is now responsible for feeding 166 people in the U.S. and globally! Fewer than 1% of the state and national population is involved in producing beef. There are a lot of customers for you and I to reach with a proactive, positive beef message. A growing need that presents a great opportunity! In light of this, I find that my own appreciation for the collective voice of our Checkoff continues to grow. It’s something to be proud of, something we can trust is working on our behalf. I look forward to sharing that work with you as we consider the value of a dollar.
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JANUARY 2020
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LIVESTOCK MARKETING GROUP Albany
Cattle Sale Every Wednesday 9:30 AM(CT) Cow Sale 2nd Friday of Every Month 6:00 PM(CT) Bret Carver 270-459-0724
Campbellsville
Cattle Sales Every Wednesday & Saturday 10:00 AM Cow Sale 1st Friday of Every Month 7:00 PM Ronnie Choate 270-465-4051 or 270-766-8240
East-Mt. Sterling
Cattle Sales Every Wednesday 8:30 AM & Saturday 11:00 AM Tim Gayheart 859-229-4437
Maysville
Cattle Sales Every Tuesday 10:30 AM Cow Sale 3rd Friday of Every Month 6:30 PM Corey Story 606-209-1543
Blue Grass Lexington 2020 CPH Schedule
Wednesday, January 15, 5:30 PM Wednesday, March 11, 5:30 PM
Lexington
Cattle Sales Every Monday & Tuesday 9:00 AM Cow Sale 4th Wednesday of Every Month 6:30 PM Jeremy Shryock 859-967-6479
Richmond
Cattle Sales Every Friday 9:00 AM Cow Sale 2nd Friday of Every Month 1:00 PM
Hog, Goat & Sheep Sale 2nd & 4th Monday of Every Month 1:00 PM
Jim Dause 859-314-7211
South-Stanford
Cattle Sales Every Monday & Thursday 8:30 AM Cow Sale 3rd Friday of Every Month 6:30 PM David Holt 502-680-0797
Internet at Blue Grass
Video Sales 2nd & 4th Tuesday of Every Month 1:00 PM Adam Menker 419-310-5344
Let Blue Grass Host Your Next Event or Purebred Sale State of the art facilities, conveniently located close to I-75 & I-64.
South-Stanford 606-365-0665
Albany 606-387-4681
Look us up at the Kentucky Cattlemen’s Convention! January 16-17th Visit our booth at the trade show and join us for the Internet Sale, Friday at 4:00 PM!
Richmond 859-623-1280
Campbellsville 270-465-4051
East-Mt. Sterling 859-498-9625 Maysville 606-759-7280
www.bgstockyards.com COW COUNTRY •
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LARUE COUNTY NEWS
BARREN COUNTY NEWS
Submitted by Brenda Gaddie
Submitted by James Bailey
The Larue County Cattlemen’s Association held its annual Christmas Dinner on Tuesday, December 10th. A large crowd was on hand to enjoy a delicious meal prepared by Patti Holbert and Ricky Wheeler. Dave Maples, Executive Director of Kentucky Cattlemen’s Association, was guest speaker. The following members were recognized for their hard work and leadership this year: Larry and Sharon Allen received the Gordon Conner Service Award. The Horizon Award was awarded to James Gray. The President’s Leadership Award went to Trudy Gardner. Retiring Board members Larry Howell and Donald McDowell were presented jackets.
The Barren County Cattlemen’s meeting was held Thursday evening, November 21st at the Barren County High School Trojan Academy. During the Meeting Chris Emberton representing Wright Implement Company presented a program on Update of Equipment and Parts. Pictured from left to right are; Chris Emberton, Ken Branstetter, and Don Wilson, treasurer of the Barren County Cattlemen’s Association. A delicious steak dinner was served which was sponsored by WRIGHT IMPLEMENT COMPANY OF GLASGOW.
Members of the Barren County Cattlemen’s Association presented a program on Farm to Table to Red Cross Elementary students on October 18th. Pictured from left to right are; Gerry Bowman, Frank Rowland, and Charles Embry, all members of the Barren County Cattlemen’s Association.
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MONTGOMERY COUNTY NEWS Submitted by Gary Hamilton
The Montgomery County Cattlemen’s Association presented Tommy Murphy the 2019 Outstanding Beef Producer of the Year Award at their November Meeting. Mr. Murphy will also receive one year on free membership in the Montgomery County Cattlemen’s Association. Pictured L-R Tommy Murphy and President Bruce Witt.
Members of the Montgomery County Cattlemen’s Association collected and donated food items to the Montgomery County Food Coalition. Pictured L-R Cattlemen’s Vice President Alice Ward, Food Coalition Rep Pam Bryant and Cattlemen’s President Bruce Witt.
There is Hay Hidden In Your Hay Pile We Can Help You Find It
A summary of 5 trials showed a 14.3% reduction in hay consumption per cow when they consumed 200 mg of Rumensin Daily. What Does That Mean For You? 18 Less 800 lb Roundbales For a 30 Head Herd 60 less 800 lb Roundbales For a 100 Head Herd
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LEGISLATIVE UPDATE LEGISLATION TO PRESERVE FAMILY and that’s exactly what the USMCA will do. FARMS INTRODUCED IN CONGRESS The Trump Administration and Speaker The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association Pelosi deserve credit for working together (NCBA) today announced its strong to get this deal done, and now is the time support for the “Preserving Family for Congress to approve USMCA so our Farms Act of 2019.” Introduced by U.S. producers can move forward with the Representatives Jimmy Panetta (D - 20th certainty they need and deserve.” Dist. - Calif.) and Jackie Walorski (R - 2nd Dist. - Ind.), this important bipartisan legislation would expand IRS Code Section 2032A to allow more ranchers and farmers to take advantage of the special use valuation and protect family-owned businesses from the devastating impact of the death tax.
U.S. SENATE INTRODUCTION OF REAL MEAT ACT
The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) today applauded the introduction of the Real MEAT (Marketing Edible Artificials Truthfully) Act of 2019 by U.S. Senator Deb Fischer of Nebraska. NCBA President Jennifer Houston said The Senate bill is a companion to H.R. that ranchers and farmers are very 4881, which was introduced by U.S. appreciative of the death tax relief that Representatives Roger Marshall (R - 1st was passed as part of the Tax Cuts and Dist., Kansas) and Anthony Brindisi (D Jobs Act of 2017 (TCJA), but that many 22nd Dist., N.Y.) in October. cattle producers are either still vulnerable “It’s clear that fake-meat companies to the death tax or will be vulnerable when are continuing to mislead consumers the TCJA exemption limits revert back in about the nutritional merits and actual 2026. ingredient composition of their products,”
Provisions Confusion
to
Eliminate
Consumer
• FDA has misbranding provisions for false or misleading labels; • Prevent further consumer confusion with alternative protein products; • Clarify the imitation nature of these alternative protein products; 3.Enhance the Federal Government’s Ability to Enforce the Law • FDA will have to notify USDA if an imitation meat product is determined to be misbranded; • If FDA fails to undertake enforcement within 30 days of notifying USDA, the Secretary of Agriculture is granted authority to seek enforcement action. FIRST PHASE IN U.S./ CHINA TRADE DEAL
National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) CEO Colin Woodall issued the In the Tax Reform Act of 1976, Congress said NCBA President Jennifer Houston. following statement regarding today’s recognized the disproportionate burden “We commend the efforts of Senator announcement that the U.S. and China of the death tax on agricultural producers Fischer on introducing this legislation, have agreed to a phase one trade deal: and created Section 2032A as a way to which would end deceptive labeling of fake “The announcement of a phase one deal help farmers keep their farms. However, meat products and allow cattle producers with China is welcome news for the U.S. to compete on a level playing field.” the benefits of Section 2032A have been beef industry. While we wait to learn more stymied over the years as the cap on “Beef is derived from cattle—period,” about the details of the agreement, we are deductions has failed to keep pace with the Senator Fischer said. “Under USDA, optimistic that this positive news will bring rising value of farmland. The Preserving beef undergoes a rigorous inspection long lasting relief to farmers and ranchers Family Farms Act of 2019 increases the and labeling process, but plant-based who have been targeted with China’s maximum amount allowed under the protein products that mimic beef and are retaliatory tariffs for many months.” said exemption from $750,000 to $11 million sometimes labeled as beef are overseen by Woodall. “While tariffs grab most of the (indexed for inflation), thus reviving a the FDA instead. These products are not headlines, China’s unjustifiable non-tariff critically important tool in the toolbox for held to the same food safety and labeling barriers and restrictions on science-based farm and ranch families across the U.S. standards as beef. The NCBA has been production technologies must be addressed If enacted, this legislation will provide a a leader on this issue, and I am thankful so that Chinese consumers can enjoy the permanent solution to an issue that has for their strong support of the Real MEAT same high-quality, safe and sustainablylong plagued our nation’s cattle producers. Act, which will protect consumers from produced U.S. beef that Americans have deceptive marketing practices and bring enjoyed for decades. We encourage the MOVING FORWARD ON USMCA transparency to the grocery store.” Trump Administration to keep working with China to establish meaningful market National Cattlemen’s Beef Association Specifically, The Real Meat Act will: access and rules of trade based on market President Jennifer Houston issued the 1. Codify the Definition of Beef for Labeling demand and science, most importantly. following statement regarding today’s Purposes This is an important step forward and announcement that the U.S. House of Representatives will soon move forward • Establish a federal definition of beef that something that both countries must build on for our mutual prosperity.“ on the U.S.- Mexico -Canada Agreement applies to food labels; (USMCA): • Preserve the Congressional Intent of the “There is no higher policy priority for America’s beef producers than maintaining our duty-free access to Canada and Mexico,
CATTLEMEN CELEBRATE FINALIZATION OF TRADE DEAL WITH JAPAN National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) President Jennifer Houston today issued the following statement in response to Japan’s final approval of a trade deal that will lower tariffs for U.S. beef exports to that nation: “There’s just no other way to say it: this is a tremendous victory and a great day for America’s beef producers and Japanese consumers. Japan is the number one export market for U.S. beef, and for many years it has been a top priority of NCBA to remove tariff and non-tariff trade barriers that have prevented American beef producers from meeting Japanese consumer demand for safe and highquality U.S. beef. This agreement levels the playing field and opens the door for U.S. beef producers to meet consumer demand in Japan. NCBA has been a strong supporter of President Trump’s push for a bilateral trade deal with Japan, and we look forward to capitalizing on this opportunity in 2020. “Over the past few years, NCBA has met countless times with our nation’s top trade negotiators and Japanese trade officials to underscore the importance of market access to Japan to America’s cattle producers. NCBA is honored to have been a part of the process from Day One right on through to the official signing ceremony with President Trump in the White House. Because of the Administration’s commitment to this issue, America’s cattle producers will no longer be at a competitive disadvantage in our largest export market. That means our current market of $2 billion a year -- nearly $100 per head sold -- is likely to grow in the years to come.”
Beef Promotion and Research Act; 2.
Reinforce
Existing
Misbranding
The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) has represented America’s cattle producers since 1898, preserving the heritage and strength of the industry through education and public policy. As the largest association of cattle producers, NCBA works to create new markets and increase demand for beef. Efforts are made possible through membership contributions. To join, contact NCBA at 1-866-BEEF-USA or membership@beef.org.
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FEATURE
ST RU C T U R E S F O R B E E F CAT T L E Structures for beef cattle fall into two categories: simple shelters and buildings. Simple shelters are used where little preparation needs to be done, or can be afforded, other than to provide cattle with the simplest type of protection from wind and sunshine. Examples of simple shelters are windbreaks, shade structures, trees, and topography. Simple structures may be enough for cattle when a forage analysis indicates they are being fed a proper ration. However, winter-feeding creates soil erosion, mud, compaction, and loss of vegetation due to cattle pugging and vehicle traffic. Waste of harvested forages also has to be removed and additional material has to be fed, which means greater distances must be traveled. Additionally, winter feeding has additional costs, including time, fuel, seed and chemicals needed to renovate winter feeding areas. Using a cost-benefit analysis, it would be hard to justify the expense of new buildings based on economic benefits gained from feed efficiency, average daily gain, or health. Nevertheless, indirect benefits can matter to producers, who count the aforementioned benefits as well as benefits obtained from ease of management, environmental compliance, and personal judgement. However, not all buildings are the same, nor is the management of them. Livestock housing, whether simple or sophisticated, must perform the required functions. It should meet the thermal and physical needs of the animal; it should provide a place to store and feed materials without damage or loss; it should increase the performance of cattle; and, it should allow the producer to conduct all chores associated with cattle production efficiently. A building can contribute to management efficiency and animal performance, which itself is defined by productivity, health and welfare. The building should create optimum environmental conditions for cattle by providing light, air flow, appropriate flooring, space, and ventilation. To provide shelter from summer sun but also provide the warmth of the sun
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in winter, the layout of the building and the location must be based on compass points. An east-west orientation of a building is usually desirable for the following reasons. It creates a maximum surface area to the south for winter warming. Sunlight is one of the cheapest and most effective disinfectants known to man. Allowing sunlight to enter the facility to disinfect surfaces is a good management practice. An east-west orientation also maximizes shade during the summer. Orienting the building based on compass points can also create optimum ventilation and save energy by using prevailing winds. Good ventilation is of paramount importance in housing, with ruminants particularly prone to respiratory ailments if good ventilation is not provided. The siting of the building should take advantage of cool summer breezes, while protecting cattle from harsh winter winds. Flooring should provide drainage, be non-slippery, and make manure removal easy, while providing space for the animal to move, eat, drink, and lie down. The layout should allow the producer to move or separate animals for easy care and handling. The building should accommodate existing or planned equipment for the easy removal and storage of manure and bedding. Livestock waterers should be accessible to cattle, yet out of the way during manure removal, while reducing the contribution of wetness to flooring and bedding, and be easy to clean. Buildings need to be accessible to the producer and the cattle. Ideally, a building should be located along a road near the approximate center of the operation or in the middle of the operation. Figure 1 shows four locations for a farmstead. The center of the operation “A” is the best option. It allows the producer to expand in four different directions and it provides an equal distance to each corner. The second-best locations are “C” and “D”, which are essentially the same just different highway usage. The location of a farmstead on the corner at “B” is probably the worst location. One reason is that it requires the longest distance to travel to the opposite corner. COW COUNTRY •
SECONDARY HIGHWAY
Steve Higgins
C
A
B
D HIGHWAY
Figure 1. Four options for locating infrastructure for a beef operation/farmstead/ winter feeding area.
FIELD A
FIELD B
FIELD C
FIELD D
WINTER FEEDING AREA
FIELD F
FIELD E HIGHWAY
Figure 2. Layout of a centralized operation, with a lane and two watering locations at the intersection of four fields. It also limits the ability to expand the operation to two directions. Lanes should be created to provide access to the fields and the buildings. Figure 2 shows how a lane allows the cattle to be moved from one field to another without going through a third. Cattle in any field can also be moved back to the winter feeding area or handling area without going through a second pasture. Watering stations can be placed at the intersections of these fields to facilitate rotational grazing and access. The siting of the building should allow a producer to view multiple groups of animals. Design the building and the area around it as a hub for managing an area up to 160 acres. The building should be designed for flexibility and possibly year-round use (Figure 3). Flexibility can be obtained by
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eliminating interior columns. This type of design is more conducive for removal of manure and a loose housing layout. Interior posts do provide the advantage of being able to secure panels and gates for separation and handling of groups or individuals. Precipitation is necessary for growing forages and crops. However, moisture or wetness around a building can cause foundation failure, rotting of construction materials, and increased maintenance costs. Therefore, drainage of surface water should be moved away from the building to maintain the integrity of the building. Gutters and downspouts are key components to handling water but these are usually omitted to reduce costs. If included, they could be used to convey rainfall to storage structures, which could then be used to distribute as drinking water for cattle.
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Figure 3. The building should be designed for flexibility and possibly year-round use Contaminated runoff from areas around the building should be managed using a filter strip. Figure 4 shows a filter strip adjacent to a building with an outdoor concrete pad. This buffering area is used to create an environment that creates sheet flow, or a thin membrane of water flowing over a large area, allowing filtration and infiltration, utilization of nutrients and treatment of harmful pathogens in the runoff. This type of system does not limit production by excluding an area but instead creates an area of enhanced forage production, which can then be used to graze cattle and increase production. Distance traveled and the number of gates that must be opened to do daily chores should be reduced to a minimum. However, ventilation and light should not be sacrificed by building structures too close together for convenience. The systematic incorporation of feedstuffs, bedding, and manure can provide a much more efficient operation, especially where self-feeding is included in the design. A systems approach that incorporates all aspects of animal and worker performance is needed for effective cattle buildings. Two basic purposes of buildings are to provide an optimum environment for cattle production and to assist the stockman with management. Management ease is accomplished by incorporating feed storage and handling as well as manure storage and handling. COW COUNTRY •
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The tasks of feeding and removing manure require the greatest amount of labor and time. Adequate ventilation is needed to control heat, moisture, and contaminants.
Figure 4. A buffer, or living machine, has been installed below this open concrete pad (area on right) to increase infiltration, while at the same time filter, absorb, utilize, and treat runoff.
The key to making a building contribute to the operation is perspective. If we call our buildings “barns,” then what will we use them for and how will they be valued? Conversely, if we look at a building as a food production center, which it is, then we should have a better perspective on its contribution. The reality is that cattle occupy buildings that were built generations ago when we didn’t know as much about the thermal and physical needs of cattle; the layout of the building was probably not designed for the efficient removal and storage of manure; the design was probably compromised to reduce cost; and the site was probably selected based more on social reasons than on engineering concepts, environmental stewardship or animal care. That type of cattle housing, where cattle occupy a manmade environment not centered around production, represents a compromise between cost, operating convenience and animal performance. We can do better. In order to provide value, a static structure must become a dynamic structure that contributes to management efficiency and animal performance, which is defined by three objectives that should always go together: productivity, health and welfare.
Call Charlie for details! • 859-608-9745 • www.RedBarnandAssociates.com
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SUPPORT THE BIRTHING AND BONDING CHAIN
that the cow’s licking of the perineum stimulates urination and defecation by the calf. When this physical process is interrupted or not allowed to take place, the likelihood for rejection increases.
Bruce Derksen The reproduction process for a cow or heifer could be thought of as a circular pattern with multiple notable events scattered along the circumference. Impregnation, gestation, delivery and weaning all represent significant markers but when the pregnancy period is ending, a handful of critical actions should take center stage. The process of isolation, birthing and establishing a bond that results in a healthy calf at weaning time is a fragile chain that must be supported to offer the best opportunity for success. Aaron Berger, University of NebraskaLincoln Beef Systems Extension Educator sees the process as complex. “Weather conditions, the environment the cattle are in and the disposition of the cow can all contribute or take away from the success of the event.” He notes that many things are happening in a short period of time that can influence the chain. “Can that calf be born in a way that it gets up, nurses and receives colostrum in a timely way? And then will that cow protect the calf and get it safely to weaning?” Allow the Isolation Isolation and nesting are the natural process of many mammals as the female becomes aware of the approaching delivery. Experts see this preliminary step as vital in the formation of the mother offspring bond because it establishes the protection of the pair from predators and facilitates early social interactions without unwanted interference. Cows become receptive to the idea of calving up to a week before the physical act. Hormones are triggered and the figurative meter is running. “A cow that has open space on pasture can go off by herself and complete the birthing process without interruption. This should mean less stress for the cow and result in a better opportunity for bonding,” said Berger. “If she has limited space and ability to get up and move around, these are things in my mind that can contribute to the bonding process being more challenging for that cow.” Dr. Jack Whittier, Director of the 22
University of Nebraska Panhandle Research and Extension Center agrees and encourages producers to give cows and heifers plenty of room. “If cows are closely confined in groups, they don’t get a chance to isolate themselves to calve. There are always a few individuals, particularly heifers that initially lack a strong mothering instinct. Allowing them to calve out in the field by themselves is best.” Respect the Birth If females are given the opportunity to naturally isolate and nest, the birthing process will eventually proceed. Changes in progesterone and estrogen levels initiate birthing but rising oxytocin levels released during the physical event trigger maternal behavior. Studies show that cervical stimulation is crucial for proper hormonal response. The act of the fetus pushing against the cervix while stretching the birth canal causes the release of oxytocin. It may not be a visual part of the bonding process, but the hormonal release combined with contractions is considered vital.
While recognition between mothers and offspring involves visual and olfactory senses, auditory stimulus is the most effective in both short- and long-range communications. “Cows are aware of where their calves are. Typically, in extensive range environments where predators are present, this would have more importance than it would in a more confined type of scenario,” said Berger. All sensory communication and recognition stimuli are key pieces of the bonding process. Employ the Patience Even with the best of intentions, sometimes things don’t go as nature intended. Dr. Whittier lauds patience as a key to success. “There’s a complex hormone system involved in causing birth and initiating lactation. Like any biological system, it can get a little out of sequence; so just giving the heifer a little
When the cow is lying down during delivery, maternal instinct and sensory clues provided by the calf and the birth fluids will force her attention. “A vocal calf that is vigorous and struggling to get up, encourages the cow and symbiotically the cow encourages the calf,” said Berger. “An aggressive cow and calf seem to be the scenario with the best opportunity for that calf to get colostrum in a timely way and further bonding to occur.” Recognize the Contact After delivery, the timing of physical contact between the cow and calf is critical. A study by the University of Veterinary Medicine at Cornell stated that a period as brief as five minutes postpartum results in the formation of a strong specific maternal bond. Opiates released at parturition and their analgesic effects are enhanced by ingestion of amniotic fluid. The smell and taste of birth fluids is known to drive maternal behavior motivating the cow to lick the calf. The study also points out COW COUNTRY •
time may work things out. I prefer to wait and see, rather than immediately jump in and try to change something.” When conditions make it imperative to move the calf into a more protective environment, he suggests, “Make sure the cow has a chance to smell the calf. To get her to follow you and the calf, put it in a sled or some conveyance low to the ground so she can follow and keep sniffing it. And don’t totally dry a newborn because birth fluids are a strong stimulus in eliciting maternal behavior.” For cow/calf producers, having a cow birth and bond to a live healthy calf while maneuvering through obstacles and interruptions is critical. “We have to think of the whole thing as not necessarily linear. Some disruptions will impact it,” said Berger. He sees much diversity in how cow/calf production is occurring in North America and emphasizes that cattle need to fit the environment and their resources for an unbroken chain of events to occur. “The production scenario and process will impact the maternal bonding. Mold that scenario to give the best opportunity for that bonding to occur.”
In the real world of beef production, making a profit is the bottom line, not maximum EPDs.
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OVER 400 Angus, Gelbvieh & Balancer Bulls will sell in Seedstock Plus Sales this spring! North Missouri Bull Sale
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RED REWARD Bull & Female Sale
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March 28, 2020 Joplin Regional Stockyards, Carthage, MO Selling 175 - 18 month old & yearling bulls! 50 open heifers! ALL BLACK! ALL SALES! Bid & Buy at:
COW COUNTRY •
DVAuction
JANUARY 2020
March 14, 2020 Wheeler Livestock Osceola, MO Selling 60 RED Gelbvieh & Balancer bulls and 50 RED open heifers
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C H I N A F U E L S O C TO B E R P O R K E X P O RT S ; B E E F E X P O RT S D OW N F RO M L AST Y E A R Strong demand from China bolstered U.S. pork exports in October, according to data released by USDA and compiled by the U.S. Export Federation (USMEF), while October beef exports were below the very high totals posted a year ago. October pork exports increased 8.5% year-over-year to 225,376 metric tons (mt), while export value climbed 10% to $592 million. January-October export volume was 5% ahead of last year’s pace at 2.13 million mt, while value increased 3% to $5.48 billion. Pork export value averaged $48.13 per head slaughtered in October, up 4% from a year ago. For January through October, the per-head average was down 1% to $51.12. October exports accounted for 24% of total U.S. pork production and 20.9% for muscle cuts only, up from 23.6% and 20.7%, respectively, a year ago. January-October exports accounted for 26% of total pork production and 22.6% for muscle cuts, both up slightly year-over-year. October beef exports totaled 108,017 mt, an 8% decline from last year’s large volume, while export value ($649.1 million) was down 11%. Through the first 10 months of 2019, beef exports were down 2.5% in volume (1.1 million mt) and value ($6.75 billion) from last year’s record pace. Beef export value per head of fed slaughter averaged $284.56 in October, down 10% from a year ago, while the January-October average was down 4% to $308.04. October exports accounted for 12.9% of total U.S. beef production and 10.5% for muscle cuts only, down from 14.1% and 11.6%, respectively, last year. For January through October, exports accounted for 14.1% of total beef production and 11.5% for muscle cuts, each down about one-half of a percentage point from 2018, when a record percentage of production was exported.
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October pork standouts: China, Oceania, Central America Although still saddled by China’s retaliatory duties, October pork exports to the China/Hong region reached 61,062 mt, up 150% year-over-year, while export value climbed 127% to $141.3 million. For January through October, exports to China/Hong Kong were up 55% in volume (468,576 mt) and 34% in value ($974.8 million). Exports to the region already exceed the full-year totals of 2018. “China’s efforts to rebuild its domestic swine inventory, which has been hit hard by African swine fever, are gaining traction, but there are still excellent opportunities for pork-supplying countries,” said USMEF President and CEO Dan Halstrom. “As U.S.-China trade talks continue, we remain hopeful that access for U.S. red meat in China will return to a level playing field with our competitors.” Pork exports to Mexico fell below yearago levels in October, with volume down 18.5% to 54,639 mt and value declining 9% to $97.3 million — the lowest since April. January-October exports to Mexico were down 11% from a year ago in volume (584,415 mt) and declined 9% in value ($1.02 billion). “Increased demand in China is pulling some pork cuts and offal away from Mexico as well as other markets, but October shipments to Mexico were nevertheless disappointing,” Halstrom said. “The U.S. industry is still feeling the effect of Mexico’s retaliatory duties on pork, which were in place for about one year, and rebuilding pork demand in Mexico remains a top priority.” The outlook for pork exports to Japan in 2020 and beyond brightened significantly this week as the Japanese Parliament ratified an agreement that will bring tariffs on U.S. pork in line with those imposed on major competitors. COW COUNTRY •
The tariff disadvantage was evident in October, as pork export volume to Japan was down 16% from a year ago to 29,622 mt and value fell 17% to $122.3 million. Through October, exports to Japan trailed last year’s pace by 7% in both volume (307,974 mt) and value ($1.27 billion). January-October highlights for U.S. pork include: •
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Fueled by strong growth in both Australia and New Zealand, pork exports to Oceania are on a record pace in both volume (95,218 mt, up 39%) and value ($272.9 million, up 37%). The region is an outstanding destination for U.S. hams and other muscle cuts used in further processing. Exports to Central America were 16% above last year’s record pace in volume (76,861 mt) and 19% higher in value ($187 million). Exports to Panama were one-third higher year-over-year and mainstay markets Honduras and Guatemala have both achieved double-digit value growth. While October export volume to South America slowed slightly from a year ago (13,934 mt, down 2%), value still increased 12% to $35.9 million. Led by steady growth in Colombia and a strong uptick in demand from Chile and Peru, January-October exports to South America remained on a recordshattering pace at 128,469 mt (up 21% year-over-year), valued at $323.8 million (up 25%).
October beef exports lower yearover-year in most markets Tariff relief for U.S. beef is also a key component of the new trade agreement with Japan, where competitors currently enjoy a significant tariff rate advantage. The rate for U.S. beef muscle cuts is 38.5% but will drop by nearly one-third
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when the agreement enters into force, mirroring the 26.6% rate imposed on Australian, Canadian, Mexican and New Zealand beef. Another rate reduction will come April 1, when the Japanese fiscal year begins. October beef exports to Japan were down 21% in volume (21,315 mt) and 19% in value ($135.5 million). Through the first 10 months of the year, export volume fell 6% to 263,054 mt while value was down 7% to $1.64 billion. “Japan’s 38.5% tariff rate is the highest U.S. beef faces in any major market,” Halstrom explained. “It was a burden even when all suppliers were paying it but now it is especially important that both U.S. beef and pork receive tariff relief. Japanese customers are very excited about the new trade agreement, and USMEF and our industry partners are ramping up 2020 promotions and strategies to reclaim red meat market share in Japan.” Beef variety meat exports to Japan (mainly tongues and skirts) have been a bright spot in 2019, increasing 21% in volume (53,432 mt) and 13% in value ($320 million, which is 40% of the worldwide total). Japan’s tariff rate for U.S. beef variety meat is 12.8%, but under the new agreement it will drop to 5.8% for skirts and 5.7% for tongues upon implementation. The rates fall to zero by 2028 for tongues and 2030 for skirts. U.S. beef exports to South Korea slowed in October but remain on a record pace as Korea solidifies its position as the top growth market for U.S. beef in 2019. October volume dipped 3% year-overyear to 19,637 mt, while value declined 10% to $138.4 million. But through October, exports to Korea were still up 7% in both volume (215,194 mt) and value ($1.55 billion). Beef exports to Taiwan following a pattern similar to Korea, slowing in October but remaining on a record
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pace. Through the first 10 months of the year, export volume to Taiwan was up 8% from a year ago to 52,968 mt while value increased 3% to $470.3 million. The U.S. holds nearly 75% of Taiwan’s high-value chilled beef market. January-October highlights for U.S. beef include: •
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In Mexico, the third-largest destination for U.S. beef exports, volume was slightly below last year at 196,431 mt (down 1%), but value increased 4% to $916.4 million. This was largely driven by a sharp increase in the per-unit value of beef variety meat exports to Mexico, most notably tripe. Despite being up just 1% from a year ago in volume (80,789 mt), variety meat value to Mexico jumped 17% to $219.1 million. Similar to Mexico, U.S. beef variety meat is commanding stronger prices in Egypt, the leading destination for U.S. beef livers. Through October, variety meat exports to Egypt were up 1% from a year ago at 53,504 mt but climbed 14% in value to $62.3 million.
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Led by surging demand in Indonesia and solid growth in the Philippines, beef exports to the ASEAN region were 30% above last year’s pace in volume (51,758 mt) and 15% higher in value ($251.5 million). Split fairly evenly between muscle cuts and variety meat, exports to Indonesia soared 72% in volume (19,889 mt) and 43% in value ($71.8 million) from a year ago.
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Led by strong growth in Panama, beef exports to Central America were 7% above last year’s pace in volume (12,802 mt) and 13% higher in value ($72.7 million). Export value also trended significantly higher to Guatemala, Honduras and Costa Rica.
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October lamb exports trend higher October exports of U.S. lamb totaled 1,193 mt, up 3% year-over-year, while value increased 17% to $2.3 million. For January through October, exports were 28% above last years pace at 13,254 mt, while value increased 13% to $21.5 million. Lamb muscle cut exports were 11% below last year in volume (1,801 mt), but still increased 4% in value to $11.5 million. Mexico has driven lamb export growth in 2019, but other markets showing promise include Trinidad and Tobago, Panama and Guatemala. Complete January-October export results for U.S. beef, pork and lamb are available from USMEF’s statistics Web page. Monthly charts for U.S. pork and beef exports are also available online. If you have questions, please contact Joe Schuele at jschuele@usmef.org or call 303-547-0030. NOTES: •
Export statistics refer to both muscle cuts and variety meat, unless otherwise noted.
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One metric ton (mt) = 2,204.622 pounds.
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U.S. pork currently faces retaliatory duties in China. China’s duty rate on frozen pork muscle cuts and variety meat increased from 12 to 37% in April 2018, from 37 to 62% in July 2018 and from 62 to 72% on Sept. 1, 2019. Mexico’s duty rate on pork muscle cuts increased from zero to 10% in June 2018 and jumped to 20% the following month. Beginning in June 2018, Mexico also imposed a 15% duty on sausages and a 20% duty on some prepared hams. Mexico’s duties were removed in May 2019 but were in effect for much of the period reported above.
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U.S. beef faces retaliatory duties in China. China’s duty rate on beef muscle cuts and variety meats increased from 12 to 37% in July 2018 and from 37 to 47% on Sept. 1, 2019. Canada imposed a 10% duty in July 2018 that applied to HS 160250 cooked/prepared beef products. Canada’s duty was removed in May 2019 but was in effect for much of the period reported above.
Happy New Year!
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T R AV E L I N G C OW - C A L F P R O F I TA B I L I T Y C O N F E R E N C E S K I C K O F F D E C . 17 Aimee Nielson Kentucky is home to more than 1 million beef cows, the largest state inventory east of the Mississippi River. To help the state’s more than 33,000 cattle producers improve their operations, University of Kentucky agricultural economists will host traveling cow-calf profitability conferences. The conferences will provide interactive, continuing education opportunities. “The workshops will be one-day intensive seminars focused on key topics for cowcalf operations,” said Kenny Burdine, agricultural economist for the UK College of Agriculture, Food and Environment. “There are so many factors to having a more efficient, profitable enterprise. We want to give producers the tools they need to be successful.” Economists will identify key profit drivers in the cow-calf budgeting process. They 26
will provide information about how hay production costs impact profitability and help producers understand breeding stock depreciation.
2020 workshop dates and locations include: Jan. 8, Grand Rivers, Grand Rivers Community Center
Other topics include improving winter feeding practices, controlling production costs, optimizing stocking rates, managing the cowherd with profit in mind, and general farm management strategies. “Cattle producers may live in different areas with some unique challenges, but they all have some key things in common when it comes to being profitable.” Burdine said. “We want to meet them where they are and provide information they can put into practice right away.” The workshop sponsors include UK College of Agriculture, Food and Environment, Kentucky Beef Network and the Kentucky Agriculture Development Fund. COW COUNTRY •
Jan. 9, Madisonville, Hopkins Co. Cooperative Extension office Jan. 22 Morehead, Derrickson Center at MSU Jan. 29, Shelbyville, Shelby County Extension office March 16, Monticello, Wayne County Extension office March 17, Campbellsville, Taylor County Extension office March 18, Bowling Green, Warren County Extension office March 19, Elizabethtown, Hardin County Extension office Economists will schedule a spring conference at the Madison County Extension office and fall conferences at the Boone County Extension office and the Boyle County Extension office. For specific times, contact a local office of the UK Cooperative Extension Service.
JANUARY 2020
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ECONOMIC & POLICY UPDATE
2 019 N AT I O N A L L A N D VA L U E S S U M M A RY Steve Isaacs, Extension Professor Each August, USDA releases its summary of agricultural land values. The publication and data are available at https://usda. library.cornell.edu/. Type “land values” into the search box for a PDF a TXT or a ZIP file of the report and data. The per acre value for all US farm real estate increased 1.9% from 2018 (the same percentage increase as the year before) to an average of $3,160/acre. Cropland increased by 1.2% to $4,100/acre and US pastureland increased by $30/ac (2.2%) to $1,400/acre. The $3,160/ac for all farm real estate in 2019 is a 96% increase over the $1,610/ ac reported for 2005. Over the same time period cropland value has increased by 99% and pastureland value has increased by 89%. See the graphics accompanying this article for visual representations of the changes over time. Figure 1 is the classic line-graph that shows up in many farm media outlets. One difference is the addition of “real” values, i.e. the inflation adjusted values of farmland (base: 1982). A couple of observations from the “real” values are, one, that recent increases are
just enough to offset the approximate 2% inflation rate of recent years; and two, that the downturn of the 80s took about 25 years to recover from the effects of a major decline in land values. Figure 2 is a graphic I created several years ago and update every year. This table reflects the year-to-year percentage changes rather than the cumulative effects over time. Notable events since 1910 like the great depression and the farm financial crisis of the 80s are evident. The more recent “great recession” and the downturn in commodity prices are reflected in a couple of negative year-toyear changes and modest increases. So far, the current farm income downturn has not affected land values as adversely as the 80s. The data reported here represents national or state-level survey results. Please be advised that all land values are locally driven and may vary widely based on quality and location characteristics as well as the local supply/demand conditions. These results are a good indicator of general trends in land values, but are not likely a local estimate of value.
Figure 1. Changes in United States Farm Real Estate Values, 1910-2019
Figure 2: Annual Percentage Change in Real Estate Values of US Farms by Year, 1910-2019
The Agricultural Economics Department publishes the Economic and Policy Update towards the end of each month. Each issue features articles written by extension personnel within the department and other experts across the country. Topics will vary greatly but regularly include marketing, management, policy, natural resources, and rural development issues. If you would like to recieve this newsletter by email, please contact Kenny Burdine at kburdine@uky.edu. You can also view current and past issues online at https://bit.ly/2PoHsZj Co-editors: Kenny Burdine, Alison Davis, and Greg Halich
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ECONOMIC & POLICY UPDATE
T H E E C O N O M I C VA L U E O F A P P LY I N G B R O I L E R L I T T E R I N T H E FA L L Jordan Shockley, Assistant Extension Professor Spring application of broiler litter is ideal for maximizing the economic value, but faces challenges that include wet soil conditions, lack of time to spread litter near planting, and availability of litter in the spring. Therefore, it is a common practice in Kentucky to apply broiler litter in the fall. While not optimal from an economic, agronomic, or environmental perspective, producers still need to understand the economic value from applying broiler litter in the fall. Litter applied in the fall to fallow cropland will suffer from ammonium volatilization and leaching resulting in little to no nitrogen available to the crop come spring. This results in an economic value less than if applied in the spring. To evaluate the economic value of broiler litter applied in the fall, first assume that soil test recommendations indicate the need for phosphorus and potassium. Also, assume that “as received” broiler litter has a nutrient content of 50 lbs of nitrogen, 56 lbs of phosphorus, and 47 lbs of potassium (average for Kentucky). Broiler litter also contains calcium, therefore also has a lime value. With current fertilizer prices of $503/ton for anhydrous ($0.31/ lb N), $425/ton for DAP ($0.34/lb P2O5), $353/ton for potash ($0.29/ lb K2O), and $10/ton for lime (at the quarry), the expected value of broiler litter applied to fallow cropland in the fall is $31/ton. This value should cover the price paid for the litter, transport, and application to compete with commercial fertilizer when applied in the fall. The value of broiler litter increases to $35/ton if it is spread in the fall to cropland that has a cover crop planted. Both fall broiler litter prices are lower compared to 2018 ($29/ton on fallow COW COUNTRY •
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cropland and $33/ton for cover crop). This is directly attributed to the lower DAP prices compared to this time last year. If availability of litter in the spring is a concern, stockpiling litter purchased in the fall can be an option if local, state and federal regulations allow. With the correct storage techniques and a properly staked litter pile, producers can expect minimum nutrient loss for spring application. If the same commercial fertilizer prices hold, the average broiler litter in Kentucky would have a value of $40/ton if properly stored and applied in the spring. The value of broiler litter differs in the fall if applied to pastures or land for hay production. If applying broiler litter to an established stand of alfalfa with a legume mix of <25% of the stand, the average broiler litter in Kentucky at current commercial fertilizer prices has a value of $43/ ton. The value of broiler litter will vary based on grass type, established stands vs. new seeding/renovation, and whether the land is used for hay, pasture, or silage. Since the value of broiler litter is dynamic and always changing, decision tools have been developed so producers can enter soil test data, nutrient content of measured litter, commercial fertilizer prices, and management practices of broiler litter applied to determine the value. Tools for applying litter to both grain crops and land in hay/pasture/silage are available and can be found on the Agricultural Economics website for budgets and decision tools at the following link: http://agecon.ca.uky. edu/budgets
Figure 1. 550# Medium & Large Frame #1-2 Steers KY Auction Prices ($ per cwt). Data sourced from USDA-AMS Livestock Marketing Information Center. Author Calculations.
H AV E W E S E E N T H E W O R S T O F T H I S CAT T L E CYC L E ? Kenny Burdine, Associate Extension Professor Few cow-calf operators are going to remember 2019 fondly. While I tend to write mostly about prices and profits, weather was really the headliner for much of the year. During the first quarter of 2019, we were dealing with one of the wettest, muddiest winters Kentucky had ever seen. This resulted in a lot of stress on cattle, increased winter hay feeding, and significant damage to pastures and hay feeding areas. By early fall, most all of Kentucky was dealing with a drought that halted pasture growth and forced a lot of producers to begin feeding hay early. And, November brought several rounds of hard freezes that halted pasture growth for the year. Production levels across all major meats were high and put downward pressure on retail meat prices. Constant uncertainty about trade seemed to hover over the market. And, the Tyson fire certainly didn’t help things as it impacted fed cattle prices this fall. Our fall calf market found its lowest level since 2016, settling in the mid-$130’s per cwt (see Figure 1), which was $10-$15 per cwt lower than 2018. While there is no way to know with certainty, I think that fall 2019 is going to be the low for this price cycle. Most supply signals
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are pointing to an end to herd expansion. USDA’s July Cattle Inventory report showed flat beef cow numbers from 2018 and a slight decrease in the size of the 2019 calf crop. Heifer retention was down in both the January and July reports and beef cow slaughter has continued to be large. Through September, beef cow slaughter has been 2% above 2018 levels and 13% above 2017 levels. In addition to the supply signals, there is a new demand factor that will likely be at play in 2020. It’s hard to over-emphasize the significance of African Swine Fever in China. Pork is the most consumed meat worldwide and China leads the world in pork consumption. The loss of hogs they are experiencing is going to have an impact on protein consumption. Despite the tariffs in place, US exports of pork to China have been a lot higher since spring and we are seeing spillover effects on beef exports. It is also no coincidence that China has lifted its ban on US poultry imports. So, while a large number of factors will impact beef and cattle prices going forward, I am optimistic that cattle producers will enjoy a better year in 2020.
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LEGAL NEWS
KENTUCKY COURT OF APPEALS RULES:
FA R M T R A I L E R I S I L L E G A L B I L L B O A R D CANDACE SMITH Steptoe & Johnson, PLLC
In light of the Kentucky Court of Appeals’ recent decision in Transportation Cabinet v. Robards, farmers should exercise caution before using their farm equipment or vehicles to display paidfor advertisements on their property. Transportation Cabinet v. Robards, 584 S.W.3d 295 (Ky. App. 2019). The Kentucky Billboard Act regulates the use of “advertising devices,” including billboards, signs, notices, posters, displays, and other devices intended to attract drivers’ attention, alongside federal interstates and highways. Id. at 297-98 (citing KRS 177.830 and 177.841). The dual purpose of the Billboard Act is to prevent the distraction of drivers and to promote beautification of the highways. Id. at 297 (citing KRS 177.850). To that end, the Billboard Act (with certain exceptions) “prohibits the erection or maintenance of any advertising device upon or within six hundred sixty (660) feet of the right-of-way of any interstate highway or federal-aid primary highway.” Id. (citing KRS 177.841). In Robards, the defendant owned a horse farm near I-65. The defendant used a semi-trailer on his farm for agricultural purposes, including storing equipment,
tools, and hay, and he moved the trailer around his property from time to time. In 2013, the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, the agency responsible for enforcing the Billboard Act, discovered that the defendant had parked his horse trailer within 660 feet of I-65 and had placed a vinyl sign over the trailer advertising a quilt outlet. The defendant had not applied for a permit to erect an “advertising device” on the property. The defendant was receiving $300 per month to advertise the quilt outlet in this manner. The Cabinet ordered the defendant to remove the vinyl sign. Following an administrative hearing, the defendant removed the vinyl sign— only to reveal that the trailer itself was painted with an advertisement for the same quilt outlet. The Cabinet then demanded the defendant cover up or remove the advertisement. The Cabinet claimed the defendant was not allowed to “keep the semi-trailer displaying an advertisement within 660 feet of the interstate and be paid for doing so.” Id. at 298. The trial court found in favor of the defendant and ruled that the trailer with the painted advertisement was not an “advertising
device” as defined in the Billboard Act because the defendant used the trailer for agricultural purposes. But, the Cabinet appealed the decision to the Kentucky Court of Appeals, which reversed. The Court of Appeals explained the “Billboard Act contains no exceptions for agricultural equipment that is used in such a manner so as to also make it an advertising device.” Id. Therefore, by painting the horse trailer with a paid-for advertisement for the quilt outlet and parking the trailer within 660 feet of I-65 without a permit, the defendant violated the Billboard Act. Id. Following this decision, farmers should be careful before displaying advertisements near interstates and federal-aid primary highways—including advertisements on farm equipment and vehicles. The Court of Appeals’ decision was based on the specific facts of this case, including the facts that the defendant was paid to display the advertisement, the quilt outlet was foreign to the defendant’s farming operations, and the farm trailer was not a “substantial structure” (as defined by the applicable statutes and regulations). The Billboard Act and accompanying regulations contain certain exceptions to
the general prohibition of advertisements near the interstate and federal-aid primary highways. Although none of those exceptions were present in the Robards case, it is possible some might apply in other scenarios. An attorney may be able to advise as to whether any of the exceptions apply in a particular case and/or assist with applying for a permit to install an advertisement. These materials are public information and have been prepared solely for educational purposes. These materials reflect only the personal views of the authors and are not individualized legal advice. It is understood that each case is fact-specific, and that the appropriate solution in any case will vary. Therefore, these materials may or may not be relevant to any particular situation. Thus, the authors and Steptoe & Johnson PLLC cannot be bound either philosophically or as representatives of their various present and future clients to the comments expressed in these materials. The presentation of these materials does not establish any form of attorney-client relationship with the authors or Steptoe & Johnson PLLC. While every attempt was made to ensure that these materials are accurate, errors or omissions may be contained therein, for which any liability is disclaimed.
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COW COUNTRY •
JANUARY 2020
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i9c2A r e 1 1
E AD
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FEATURE
LO CA L K E N T U C K Y CAT T L E M E N ’ S G R O U N D B E E F H I T S $ 1 M I L L I O N I N TOTA L FA R M G AT E S A L E S Kentucky Cattlemen’s Ground Beef recently marked a huge milestone for Kentucky farmers by hitting $1 million in total farm gate sales. This fresh and natural (no artificial ingredients, minimally processed) 80/20 ground beef is provided by Kentucky farm families who share a commitment to animal care and the environment. From farm to table, Kentucky cattlemen from 111 farms in 44 counties have provided this quality, local product and Beef Solutions is proud to have sold over 587,000 pounds of local ground beef. Supporting local cattle farmers is important as they put money back into our local economies. This product
processed and packaged in Kentucky and readily available at Kroger stores in Kentucky, Southern Indiana and Tennessee, K e n t u c k y schools, the KFC Yum Center and the Kentucky Fair and Exposition Center.
has given many farmers the opportunity to retain their cattle in Kentucky using a new marketing channel to provide a quality, local product to K e n t u c k y consumers. Many entities across the state have worked hard to bring a local beef option directly to consumers. The ground beef is sourced,
“Beef Solutions is proud to work with Kentucky cattle producers and give
them a marketing alternative for their cows. It is a win-win for producers and consumers in Kentucky” stated Jeff Pettit, Beef Solutions Chairman. Beef Solutions was formed to provide a pathway for Kentucky’s cattle farmers to sell a locally produced and marketed ground beef, guiding the product from the Kentucky farm to the Kentucky consumer. For more information on Beef Solutions visit www.beefsolutionsllc.com or to learn more about Kentucky Cattlemen’s Ground Beef visit www.kentuckycattlemensbeef. com. Special thanks to the Kentucky Department of Agriculture and the Governor’s Office of Ag Policy for their support of this project.
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• A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E K E N T U C K Y C AT T L E M E N ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N
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JANUARY 2020
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33
FEATURE
FOLLOW US ONLINE www.kycattle.com
www.edenshalefarm.com
K E N T U C K Y L AU N C H E S S E L L I N G FA R M E R S TA X C R E D I T P R O G R A M TO S U S TA I N A G R I C U LT U R A L I N D U S T RY
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www.kybeef.com www.beefinthebluegrass.com www.kybeefnetwork.com
www.cph45.com www.livestockadvertisingnetwork.com www.kentuckycattlemensbeef.com www.beefsolutionsllc.com www.beefsolutionsverified.com youngproducerscouncil.weebly.com www.learntheyards.com KCA Facebook: @kycattlemen KCA Twitter: @kycattle KCA YouTube: The Kentucky Cattlemen’s Assoc. The YARDS: @TheYARDS KJCA Facebook: @kyjuniorcattlemen YPC Facebook: @youngproducerscouncil ESF Facebook: @EdenShaleFarm KBC Facebook: @kybeef KBC Instagram: @kybeef KBC Twitter: @kybeef KBC Snapchat: @kybeef KBC Pinterest: @kybeef KBC YouTube: KYBEEF Kentucky Cattlemen’s Beef Facebook: @kycattlemensbeef Kentucky Cattlemen’s Beef Instagram: @kycattlemensbeef
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Kentucky today launched a new program offering farmers incentives for selling their property to beginning farmers, an effort to further sustain one of the state’s most important industries.
In addition, beginning farmers must commit to managing and operating a for-profit farming business a minimum of five years after purchasing eligible agricultural land.
Gov. Matt Bevin and partner organizations announced the Kentucky Selling Farmer Tax Credit (KSFTC) program, which will begin accepting applications Monday, Dec. 16.
• Selling farmers cannot have more than 50 full-time employees and must be the legal owner of agricultural land and assets sold to a beginning farmer. Sales involving immediate family members do not qualify for tax credit consideration.
“Farmers are a vital part of Kentucky’s economy, and this new program will help ensure our state benefits from its bountiful supply of agricultural land to the fullest extent possible,” Gov. Bevin said. “We are thankful for all who partnered in creating the KSFTC program, and we encourage selling farmers to take advantage of this exciting new opportunity.” Eligible selling farmers could receive tax credits up to 5% of the purchase price of qualifying assets, with a $25,000 cap per calendar year and a $100,000 lifetime cap. “The Kentucky Selling Farmer Tax Credit program is an innovative way to incentivize those farmers who are interested in selling their farmland to sell to new or beginning farmers,” Kentucky Agriculture Commissioner Ryan Quarles said. “The average age of a farmer in Kentucky is about the age of retirement. We need to continue incentivizing agriculture as a career path so that Kentucky can maintain its reputation as a top-notch agricultural state.” Both the selling and acquiring parties must meet the following criteria for beginning and selling farmers: • A beginning farmer cannot have previously owned any agricultural land for a period exceeding 10 years. COW COUNTRY •
Before completing a sale of agricultural assets, applicants should review the Kentucky Selling Farmer Tax Credit Guidelines for more detailed program information and eligibility requirements. After completing a sale, both the beginning farmer and selling farmer must submit applications to determine tax credit eligibility. A number of partners were instrumental in KSFTC’s development. This collaborative effort included essential contributions from the Governor’s Office of Agricultural Policy, Kentucky Department of Agriculture, state legislators, Kentucky Farm Bureau, Farm Credit Mid-America and Kentucky Agricultural Development Board. Mark Haney, Kentucky Farm Bureau president, said the program offers promise for beginning farmers needing access to agricultural land. “Preserving our farmland is so critically important to the viability of Kentucky agriculture,” Haney said. “Access to land is one of the biggest challenges facing our young farmers. We are hopeful the Kentucky Selling Farmer Tax Credit program will assist us in keeping Kentucky agriculture the strong economic engine it is for generations to come.”
JANUARY 2020
Sen. David Givens, of Greensburg, said KSFTC will help support rural Kentucky. “I was proud to aid in this effort to keep Kentucky farmland active in agricultural production,” Sen. Givens said. “By assisting young farmers in acquiring land through tax breaks for the selling family, we continue to strengthen our rural communities.” Rep. Bart Rowland, of Tompkinsville, said KSFTC will help give beginning farmers the jumpstart they need. “This program is without a doubt a win-win for our commonwealth,” Rep. Rowland said. “It keeps farmland in production and allows a new generation of farmers to get their foot in the door. Farming is not only a way of life, but a way to improve the quality of life for our communities.” While this program provides tax credits to selling farmers, other state agricultural programs, such as the Kentucky Agricultural Finance Corporation’s Beginning Farmer Loan Program, are available to assist beginning farmers. Visit www.thinkkentucky.com/ Entrepreneurship/KSFTC.aspx for additional information or to fill out an application. The Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development is the primary state agency responsible for encouraging new jobs and investment in the state. New capital investment announced in Kentucky under the Bevin Administration has totaled more than $23.5 billion, spurring nearly 60,000 projected new jobs. Information on available industrial properties, workforce development assistance, incentive programs, community profiles, small business development and other economic development resources is available at www.ThinkKentucky.com. Follow the Cabinet at facebook.com/ThinkKentucky, on Twitter @ ThinkKentucky and on LinkedIn, and watch the Cabinet’s “Now you Know” video on YouTube.
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COW COUNTRY •
JANUARY 2020
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FEATURE
WELCOME
DA N N Y C OY !
Monday • 5:30 PM Dinner served presale
February 24 At the farm • Quality, KY
My name is Daniel Coy, and I am the new Video Production guy here at KCA. I am from Owensboro, KY and a graduate of Apollo High School. I am married to Jenna, and we have two boys, William (age 3) and Malcolm (age 1). I have a degree in History from the University of Tennessee, and was a History teacher for over 10 years. We currently live in Lexington, about a mile from the KCA office. I have made videos and movies since I was in middle-school, and started working professionally with video in college. My clients have included Chef Gordon Ramsay (for the National Geographic show Gordon Ramsay: Uncharted), Maker’s Mark Bourbon, Kentucky for Kentucky, the Kentucky Craft History Education Association, and various restaurants, political candidates, and realtors. For several years my wife Jenna and I lived in southeast Alaska, where I made videos for the city of Juneau, the Juneau International Airport, and did work for the Alaska State Legislature. For KCA I will be making all sorts of stuff from Producer spotlights, to video and web advertisements, to the Hall of Fame videos at Convention. I am a geek for movies, cinematography, and video technology (and lenses - especially vintage lenses), and I enjoy the challenge of telling stories about smart, talented people doing specialized, physical work. In the past I have made documentaries about commercial salmon fishing in Alaska, Salt Mining in West Virginia, and urban farmers in Lexington. I look forward to exploring the world of Kentucky cattle and I am grateful for the opportunity to work with KCA to tell our important stories. Thank you! 36
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COW COUNTRY •
JANUARY 2020
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FEATURE
W H AT ’ S I N YO U R B A L E AG E ? I N A D E Q U AT E F E R M E N TAT I O N M AY L E A D TO B OT U L I S M MICHELLE ARNOLD DVM-Ruminant Extension Veterinarian, University of Kentucky
Botulism is a disease caused by one of the most potent toxins known to man. This toxin is produced by Clostridium botulinum, a Gram positive bacterium from the Clostridia family. This bacterium survives in the environment as a “spore” and contaminates plant material during harvest. In order for the bacteria to multiply and produce toxin, an anaerobic (“without oxygen”) environment must be maintained. Under certain conditions, round bale silage (or “baleage”) can provide the correct place for botulism toxin to form. In the absence of oxygen (as is found in wrapped hay) and a pH greater than 4.5 (poor fermentation), the spores enter a vegetative state, multiply and produce toxin. This toxin, once consumed and absorbed into the blood stream, blocks transmission of nerve impulses to the adjacent muscles. Two forms of the toxin, Types B and C, occur most frequently in KY cattle. Type B is associated with improperly fermented forage while Type C occurs from the accidental feeding of dead birds, dogs, cats or poultry litter contaminated with dead birds in the rations of cattle. Round bale silage or “baleage” is an increasingly popular alternative to baling dry hay that allows shorter hay curing time and saves valuable nutrients in the face of approaching adverse weather conditions. Baleage is simply forage of a relatively high moisture content that is baled with a round baler and then stored in a sealed container, usually a long plastic tube or individually wrapped in plastic, to keep oxygen out. Both grasses and legumes can be preserved by this method if proper techniques are followed. Forage cut at the correct stage of maturity, allowed to wilt to a 45-60% moisture range, then tightly baled and quickly wrapped in plastic will undergo fermentation (“ensiling”), a process that should drop the pH of the feed below 4.5 where spoilage organisms (including Clostridials) will not grow. Problems arise when there is a lack of adequate fermentation to reach this low pH, which 38
occurs most often with small grains (rye, oats, wheat, barley) but can occur with any type forage. If fermentation is restricted, it is critically important to maintain the integrity of the wrap to keep an anaerobic environment in the sealed bale and preserve the silage. If wrapping is delayed or there is damage to the plastic covering, spoilage may result which supports the growth of Clostridial organisms. On the other hand, very wet, non-wilted, and/or overly mature forages wrapped for baleage have less soluble sugars available for completion of fermentation and are also at an elevated risk for botulism toxin formation. Bacteria from the Clostridia family thrive in wet environments where forage moistures are in the higher 6770% range; greater than 70% moisture almost guarantees Clostridial growth and spoilage. Both types of toxin produce the same characteristic clinical picture in cattle including: 1. Typically, multiple cattle will be affected with symptoms at the same time; some cases may present as sudden deaths. Otherwise, animals first appear dull, depressed, lethargic and eventually become dehydrated due to the inability to drink; 2. Progressive muscle weakness leading to recumbency (downers) depending on the amount of toxin ingested; clinical signs may be first observed from about 24 hours up to 17 days after exposure to the toxin; 3. Decreased Tongue Tone (Figure 1)-Tongue weakness is characteristic of botulism. Without tongue control, a cow will have other associated signs such as a dirty nose, difficulty chewing and swallowing, drooling, and may plunge the nose deep in a watering trough to drink. Although they may appear to chew hay or grass, there is an inability to swallow so feed is seen to fall from the mouth or may be found within the mouth; COW COUNTRY •
Figure 1. Decreased Tongue and Jaw Tone are characteristic findings in botulism cases. If the tongue is grasped and pulled out the side of the mouth, the tongue may hang from the side of the mouth or is pulled in very slowly as the disease progresses. Without tongue control, a cow will have other associated signs such as a dirty nose, difficulty chewing and swallowing, drooling, and plunging the nose deep in a watering trough to drink 4. Jaw Laxity and Decreased Muscle Tone- In affected cattle, back and forth movement of the lower jaw may be very loose; the upper eyelid and tail tone are often noticeably limp; 5. Constipation/Raising the tail while straining. Sometimes see colic (abdominal pain) and a “hunched up” appearance; 6. Most cattle that go down due to botulism toxin will die due to paralysis of muscles of the diaphragm, dehydration, or complications from being a “downer”. Cattle with a more gradual progression of signs and that maintain the ability to eat and drink may recover although it can take 30 days or longer to return to normal function. Treatment consists of supportive care including administering fluids for dehydration and propping cows up on
JANUARY 2020
their sternum to prevent them from lying down flat on their sides. A vaccine (toxoid) for Clostridium botulinum type B (Bot Tox B, Neogen Corporation) is approved for horses and can be used in an extra-label fashion in cattle if a valid veterinary-client-patient relationship exists. This vaccine will not reverse clinical signs already present but may help to prevent new cases. Dead animals must be disposed of properly as the meat is not safe for human consumption. Diagnosis is difficult and is usually based on history and clinical signs. Rumen contents recovered at necropsy are the best sample for identification of the toxin. A sample of the suspected baleage should also be submitted for pH and moisture testing. Other possible causes of muscle weakness and downer cows include low blood levels of calcium, potassium or magnesium, ionophore toxicity
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(rumensin, lasalocid), organophosphate or carbamate insecticides, heavy metals such as lead, and infectious causes such as listeriosis or rabies. Calves may exhibit extreme muscle weakness due to a lack of selenium. A thorough physical examination by a veterinarian will help rule out these other possible diseases. Prevention is based on ensuring proper harvest and preservation of wrapped forages and maintaining proper feedout rates to reduce the risk of growth of organisms dangerous to cattle. Correct moisture content is of primary importance; there is a field method to assess moisture that will yield a general idea of moisture content but there are far more accurate methods available. Cut forage at the proper stage of maturity so it contains adequate levels of fermentable carbohydrates for good ensiling. See Quality Hay Production (AGR62) for specific cutting recommendations for various forage crops http://bit.ly/36S40tn. Also, achieving the highest bale density possible, especially with high internal core densities, removes the maximum amount of oxygen with few air pockets. Wrapping the bales quickly after baling with a good quality plastic, preferably with an ultraviolet inhibitor and 6-8mm thickness, and using multiple (4-6) layers will extend the storage time. Bale weight can be a safety and equipment issue. Details of proper techniques can be found in the UK Extension Fact Sheet AGR-173 entitled “Baling Forage Crops for Silage” at your local extension office or on the web at http://bit.ly/2S7g5Xk. Another excellent resource is the UK Forage website for more information: http://bit. ly/34AvguT and look for Baleage: Frequently Asked Questions. If holes appear during storage, these should be covered immediately with the proper repair tape. Store the wrapped bales on a north facing slope if available because prolonged exposure to the summer sun may cause the upper side and the south face of the bale to dry out, with the moisture condensing on the bottom or north face of the bale. In summary, it is advisable to test the pH and moisture content of your baleage to insure adequate fermentation before offering it to cattle. Samples can be submitted to a forage laboratory such as Dairy One and a fermentation profile (Figure 2) requested. This type of forage analysis will include a pH and volatile fatty acid profile and will give a very good idea of the quality of feed produced. This is a common practice for corn silage and one should consider this with fermented forages of all types to avoid health risks. It is important to remember that thousands of round bales are wrapped annually with only a few cases of botulism occurring; the risk of disease is low if one applies the proper management techniques from time of harvest through feeding.
COW COUNTRY •
JANUARY 2020
Component
DM Basis
Goal
Typical Value for DM Range 28-32
Dry Matter %
28.05
Lactic Acid %
0.74
>3
4.57
Acetic Acid %
0.58
<3
2.49
Lactic/Acetic Ratio
1.28
2.0 - 3.0
1.80
Propionic Acid %
0.16
< 1.0
0.25
Butyric Acid %
2.38
< 0.1
0.40
IsoButyric %
0.08
Total Acids %
3.93
5.0 - 10.0
7.70
pH, As sampled
5.10
<5
4.51
Crude Protein %
9.42
Ammonia, CPE %
1.27
Amm-N, % of Total N VFA Csore
1.51
13.46
8.0 - 15.0
<1
6.0 - 10.0
Your Results
Goal Value
10.54
Typical Value
Figure 2: A fermentation report from Dairy One Forage Testing Lab (Ithaca, NY) on a sample of poor quality wheat baleage.
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39
FEATURE
A G R I C U LT U R A L R E C E I P T S H O L D S T E A DY F O R T H I R D YEAR, NET INCOMES UP Katie Pratt , University of Kentucky
Kentucky agricultural receipts will likely hold steady for the third consecutive year despite trade concerns and relatively low commodity prices. Agricultural economists from the University of Kentucky College of Agriculture, Food and Environment are projecting 2019 farm cash receipts to be $5.9 billion, equaling the past two years. Kentucky producers saw increases in equine, corn, wheat, dairy and hemp receipts. “While low commodity prices continued throughout 2019, sales were aided by better than expected grain yields in certain parts of the state,” said Will Snell, UK agricultural economist. “We expect Kentucky agriculture cash receipts to slightly exceed $6 billion in 2020 with poultry, cattle and hogs rebounding from 2019 levels. Trade developments and weather will ultimately dictate the 2020 market.” UK agricultural economists estimate Kentucky producers’ net cash income will exceed $1.8 billion, which is slightly up from 2018 and largely due to two rounds of direct government payments producers received as a result of the Market Facilitation Program. The program was created by the Trump administration to support farmers amidst the ongoing trade war. Accounting for this program and other federal farm programs, Kentucky farmers may receive more than $300 million in direct government payments in 2019. U.S. net farm incomes totaled $92.5 billion, which is a 10% increase from 2018. Payments from the Market Facilitation Program and crop insurance indemnities accounted for nearly onethird of U.S. net farm incomes in 2019. “Despite an expected increase in 2019 net
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farm income, the national and Kentucky farm economies remain very vulnerable, especially if either experience low crop yields, additional trade disruptions, the elimination or reduction of Market Facilitation Program payments, higher interest rates, and/or a decline in asset values materializes,” Snell said. Despite a sales decline in 2019, poultry will remain Kentucky’s top agricultural commodity, comprising 21 percent of all projected sales for the year. Equine, corn, soybeans and cattle are expected to follow in that order. The equine industry experienced its third year of gains with receipts continuing to surpass $1 billion. UK agricultural economist Kenny Burdine expects the industry to continue to grow in 2020, provided the U.S. economy as a whole continues to be relatively strong. In 2019, U.S. corn harvested acreage increased slightly, while soybean harvested acreage decreased by about 12 million acres, and wheat harvested acreage dropped by about 2.4 million acres. U.S. corn and soybean crops were smaller in 2019 compared to 2018, while higher yields made for a larger U.S. wheat crop. Despite the larger wheat crop, a modest growth in demand continued to lower U.S. wheat inventories. National corn and soybean stocks dropped as well. In Kentucky, corn receipts grew in 2019, resulting in corn becoming the state’s third largest commodity, up from No. 5 in 2018. Producers harvested 220,000 more corn acres in 2019 compared to 2018, and average yields were up by two bushels per acre. Producers who had corn in storage were also able to capitalize on a spring market rally for the crop. “Trade uncertainty will continue to impact grain crops, particularly
COW COUNTRY •
soybeans, into 2020. Kentucky producers may find some opportunities to sell their stored grain to producers in areas of the Midwest devastated by flooding last spring, as they will need grain to feed their livestock,” said Todd Davis, UK agricultural economist. “Nationally, the USDA forecasts corn to increase by 4.6 million acres and soybeans to increase by 7.5 million acres in 2020. U.S. wheat acreage is expected to decrease by 2.6 million acres in 2020.” Weather extremes adversely impacted Kentucky’s cattle industry in 2019 with the year starting out extremely wet, but by fall, producers faced a drought. While prices for heavy feeder cattle were stable throughout the year, the calf market struggled. The fall calf market reached its lowest level since 2016. “Many signs are pointing to a halt in herd expansion, which is exactly what the market needs. Also, I think there is potential for increased meat exports in 2020, which should support cattle prices,” Burdine said. “I expect considerably better prices for calves in spring 2020 and better prices in the fall than we saw this year.” The state’s tobacco industry continued to decline in 2019 with the value of production dropping below $300 million, compared to averaging nearly $350 million annually during the past five years. U.S. burley exports were down 30%, while imports were up by more than 40%, even in the midst of accelerating
JANUARY 2020
declines in cigarette sales. Declining smokeless tobacco sales adversely impacted the dark tobacco industry, which prior to 2018 had experienced more than 20 years of growth. Nationally, dark tobacco production was likely off by 10% to 15% in 2019, while burley production may be down more than 15% this year from 2018 levels. E-cigarettes and vaping products, which contain virtually no U.S. tobacco, continue to take market shares away from traditional tobacco products. UK agricultural economist Will Snell expects the market to move into a more balanced supply and demand situation for 2020, which may result in fairly stable individual contract volumes next year, especially accounting for exiting growers. U.S. hemp acreage reportedly increased to more than 500,000 licensed acres and perhaps more than 250,000 planted acres in 2019, up from less than 100,000 acres in 2018. In Kentucky, producers planted around 26,000 acres of hemp this year, with 90% likely dedicated to production of cannabinoids. Based on price and production estimates, Kentucky producers may receive between $55 to $65 million from hemp sales in 2019, which would comprise 1% of the state’s total agricultural reciepts. This is up from the $17.75 million Kentucky growers made in 2018. In 2020, more states will start allowing producers to grow hemp, which could continue to put downward pressure on farm-level hemp prices, despite growing product sales.
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“Moving forward, growers are advised to closely monitor and evaluate their own personal risk tolerance, contract terms and business relations, as this industry matures amidst much regulatory and economic uncertainty,” Snell said. Specialty crop yields and markets remained strong despite a very dry mid-summer. Produce and nursery/ greenhouse receipts are expected to increase by 2% each for 2019. Fruit and vegetable growers grossed around $49 million in 2019, with farmers markets and other direct-to-consumer sales comprising between 40% to 50% of total receipts. The nursery/greenhouse industry benefited from a 12-year high in housing starts in 2019 with receipts estimated at $102 million.
Spring Sale February 15, 2020
11 a.m. at the farm in Ridge Spring, SC
SELLING 225 BULLS & 75 FEMALES Forage-Developed Angus Cattle
Select Offering of SimAngus & Ultrablack Cattle
“Kentucky is a unique state for marketing specialty crops, in that we have a larger portion of total sales coming from directto-consumer purchases rather than from the wholesale markets like larger producing states,” said Tim Woods, UK agricultural economist. “So when the national economy is relatively strong and people have more disposable income and consumer spending is higher, direct-toconsumer markets, tend to do better.” As in 2018, the forestry industry contributed $13.2 billion to Kentucky’s economy in 2019, but there was considerable volatility. Prices for white oak stave logs, used to make barrels, were up and are projected to continue upward in 2020. Railroad ties remained stable from 2018 levels and are expected to be steady into 2020. Red oak prices were hit by a lower demand in Asia, which was exacerbated by tariffs and a soft U.S. market. With red oak comprising a significant portion of Kentucky forests, the lower prices caused some landowners not to sell their timber. This adversely affected the state’s logging industry and primary wood manufacturers and is expected to continue to do so in 2020. “With the excpetion of white oak and cross-tie markets, there is a significant amount of uncertainty across the industry and that will likely lead to lower stumpage prices in the near future,” said Bobby Ammerman, UK extension associate of secondary wood industry. For the entire outlook, visit the UK Department of Agricultural Economics website at http://bit.ly/2M7hLfO
COW COUNTRY •
JANUARY 2020
Kevin, Lydia, Drake, & Corbin Yon Reid & Sally Harrison lydia@yonfamilyfarms.com 803-685-5048
www.yonfamilyfarms.com
• A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E K E N T U C K Y C AT T L E M E N ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N
Free bull delivery with $5,000 total bull purchases
41
FEATURE
U . S . L E A D S T H E WAY I N R E S P O N S I B L E A N D S U S TA I N A B L E B E E F P R O D U C T I O N A new white paper detailing the minimal environmental footprint of beef production in the U.S. was recently published by the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, a contractor to the Beef Checkoff. The white paper, authored by Sara Place, PhD, senior director of sustainable beef production research at the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, highlights why and how the U.S. is the leader in sustainable beef production. Beef Greenhouse Gas Emissions in the U.S. U.S. beef production, particularly when it comes to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, is often misrepresented with global statistics that fuel inaccurate reports and misconceptions. This new white paper addresses this issue by
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sharing the most recent data indicating that only 3.7 percent of U.S. GHG emissions come directly from beef cattle. By comparison, globally, beef cattle account for 6 percent of GHG emissions. To put U.S. beef production further into perspective, all of agriculture, including beef cattle and other animal and crop agriculture, accounts for 8.4 percent of U.S. GHG emissions. Comparatively, transportation accounts for 28 percent of GHG emissions in the U.S. On global scale, all livestock agriculture accounts for 14.5 percent of GHG emissions, which is often used inaccurately to represent U.S. beef emissions. These variations can largely be attributed to different regional production practices. As the white paper notes, cattle production in the U.S., due to scientific
COW COUNTRY •
advancements in beef cattle genetics, nutrition, husbandry practices, and biotechnologies, has one of the lowest beef GHG emissions intensities* in the world. In fact, GHG emissions intensity in the U.S. is 10–50 times lower than other parts of the world. Improved Efficiencies The white paper also details the results of improved efficiencies in beef cattle production in the U.S. during the past several decades. For example, compared to the mid-1970’s, today the U.S. produces the same amount of beef with one-third fewer cattle.v Furthermore, the U.S. produces around 18 percent of the world’s beef with only 8 percent of the world’s cattle herd.vi These efficiencies are possible due to improved productivity practices, refined genetics, nutrition and
JANUARY 2020
scientific advancements. In addition to more efficient cattle production, beef farmers and ranchers have dedicated themselves to being stewards of the land by focusing on preservation and enhancement of grassland ecosystems through responsible land management practices. As ruminants, cattle can convert plants with little to no nutritional value often found on these lands into a high-quality protein. Continuous Improvement Although the U.S. beef industry is the most sustainable in the world, there is still room for improvement. In addition to research and extension and adoption of new knowledge, beef farmers and ranchers have invested in a first-of-
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its kind lifecycle assessment to better evaluate sustainability achievements and opportunities across the entire beef lifecycle. The outcome of this rigorous assessment, conducted in partnership with USDA and set to be released in the first half of 2020, will be economic, environmental and social benchmarks the beef industry can use to set new goals and measure continued improvement. “It is clear the U.S. is leading the way when it comes to sustainable beef production,” said Place. “Not only are we producing more beef with less resources, but we are able to raise a high-quality protein while still caring for the environment. The beef industry takes pride in raising cattle sustainably, which is evident in its dedication to continued improvement.”
IT’S JUST THAT GOOD. Time tested. Proven performance. r
e ow L w Ne rice! P
To learn more about how U.S. beef farmers and ranchers raise beef responsibly, visit https://www.beefitswhatsfordinner. com/raising-beef/beef-sustainability
Over the past two decades, Persist orchardgrass has set the standard for high yielding, long-lasting forage. Persist has fed more cattle, packed more hay barns, and made more meat and milk.
*Greenhouse Gas emissions per a pound of beef produced
Persist has withstood severe droughts, survived frigid ice storms and outlasted intensive grazing. Persist has produced countless tons of toxic-free forage and has been a reliable alternative to harmful KY-31 tall fescue. If you want high yielding, longlasting stands, spend your seed money wisely. Plant Persist.
Tim Dievert 478 Dry Fork Rd. • Danville, KY 40422 Office:859/236-4591 (C)859/238-3195 • tdievert@dievertsales.com www.dievertsales.com Catalogs or more information available by contacting Tim Dievert.
56TH ANNUAL WINTER SALE January 25, 2020 CKAA Sales Pavilion, Danville, KY KENTUCKY ANGUS SWEEPSTAKES 64TH ANNUAL SHOW & SALE March 6-7, 2020 Kentucky Exposition Center, Louisville, KY BRANCH VIEW ANGUS SALE April 11, 2020 At the farm, Hustonville, KY 55TH ANNUAL SPRING CKAA SALE April 18, 2020 CKAA Sale Pavilion, Danville, KY
COW COUNTRY •
JANUARY 2020
Available through the dealer network of
CENTRAL FARM SUPPLY 800-777-5923 Visit persistorchardgrass.com to learn more.
• A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E K E N T U C K Y C AT T L E M E N ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N
43
FEATURE
U S DA A N N O U N C E S A P P O I N T M E N T S T O T H E C AT T L E M E N ’ S B E E F P R O M O T I O N A N D R E S E A R C H B OA R D The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today announced the appointment of 40 members to serve on the Cattlemen’s Beef Promotion and Research Board. Thirtynine members will serve three-year terms and one appointee will serve the remaining one-year portion of a vacant position. • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
William Aubrey Blackmon, Houston, Ark. Jody Rogers, Yuma, Colo. Dwain Johnson, Archer, Fla. Trish Dowton, Ellis, Idaho Justin Rahn, Mount Carroll, Ill. Norman D. Voyles Jr., Martinsville, Ind. Ross Havens, Wiota, Iowa Jenni Peters, Bellevue, Iowa Byron Lehman, Newton, Kan. Amy Langvardt, Alta Vista, Kan. Shane Wiseman, Winchester, Ky. Jeri L. Hanson, Comfrey, Minn. Tammy Bartholomew, Archie, Mo. Bill McLaren, Pacific, Mo. Lynda Joyce Grande, Columbus, Mont. Torri Ortiz Lienemann, Princeton, Neb. Herbert B. Rhodes, Omaha, Neb. Rich Brown, Maryland, N.Y. Mary J. Graner, Huff, N.D. Kathryn Sautter, Tiro, Ohio Jean Lam, Pauls Valley, Okla. Jason Hitch, Guymon, Okla. Cheryl DeVuyst, Morrison, Okla. (1-year term) Katharine Jackson, Myrtle Creek, Ore. Diane M. Hoover, Lebanon, Pa. Cory Eich, Canova, S.D. Celeste D. Blackburn, Jefferson City, Tenn. Claudia Scott Wright, Richmond, Texas Seth A. Denbow, Weatherford, Texas Anne Ilse Anderson, Austin, Texas Debbie Gill, College Station, Texas Brian Malaer, Harwood, Texas William H. McDonald, Blacksburg, Va. Daphne R. Holterman, Watertown, Wis. Marty Stingley, Ellensburg, Wash., Northwest Unit Bill Lipscomb, Prattville, Ala., Southeast Unit Danny C. Bentley, Thomaston, Ga., Southeast Unit Mike Echeverria, Bakersfield, Calif., Southwest Unit Cathy Jauch, Plymouth, Calif., Southwest Unit Dana Ehrlich, Newton, Mass., Importer
More information about the board and a list of board members is available on the Agricultural Marketing Service Cattlemen’s Beef Board web page. More information can also be found on the board’s website, www.beefboard.org. Since 1966, Congress has authorized industry-funded research and promotion boards to provide a framework for agricultural industries to pool resources and combine efforts to develop new markets, strengthen existing markets and conduct important research and promotion activities. The Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) provides oversight to 21 boards. The oversight ensures fiscal accountability and program integrity, and is paid for by industry assessments. 44
COW COUNTRY •
JANUARY 2020
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NEED A GOOD ANGUS BULL?
?
Bridgeview Angus Bull Sale 6:30 PM • Friday, February 28, 2020
At the Bluegrass Stockyards, 4561 Iron Works Pike, Lexington, KY 40511
Selling:
60 REGISTERED ANGUS BULLS: 18 MONTHS OLD, BSE CHECKED LOW BIRTH WEIGHT HEIFER ACCEPTABLE WITH EXPLOSIVE GROWTH HERE IS A SAMPLE OF BRIDGE VIEW ANGUS BULLS OFFERED IN THIS SALE: TATOO
805 806 808 812 816 817 818 825
832 835
843 846
CED
11 15 11 10 13 3 12 8 9 3 10 10
BW .1 -1.0 .5 .6 .2 2.8 .3 .7 .5 2.1 1.0 0
WW 70 58 65 57 65 70 68 67 57 65 64 62
YW 117 103 115 100 114 131 121 125 106 118 116 116
AI SIRED RAMPAGE PLAYBOOK CHALLENGER FIRESTORM PLAYBOOK ACCLAIM ASHLAND RAINDANCE LEGEND SOUTHSIDE COWBOY UP CHALLENGER
All bulls subject to first 90 day breeding season guarantee! Option to “HOLD” bulls on feed 30 days after the sale at no extra charge! FOR INFO CALL OR TEXT - CORY: 859-338-5826, KIP: 859-608-7798, KYLE: 502-330-8914
MARK YOUR CALENDAR
COW COUNTRY •
JANUARY 2020
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FEATURE
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 15
2020
10:00 - 5:00
Trade Show Move-In
Exhibition Hall
4:00
KCA Executive Committee Meeting
East Ballroom E
THURSDAY, JANUARY 16 7:00 - 6:00
January 16 - 17, 2020
Evening Extravaganza – This is one night you don’t want to miss! The evening begins with a steak dinner, 2020 KCA Hall of Fame Inductions, live Foundation Auction, and many other awards. The KCA Hall of Fame will be inducting Nicky Baker, Royce Vincent, Jon Bednarski, Preston Seals, and Gatliff Craig.
Closing Session- Join us on Friday to hear from NCBA CEO, Colin Woodall discussing issues facing cat-tle producers. Plus, Dave Maples will give his KCA An¬nual report and hear from Ken Adams, KCA Treasurer with our annual financial report and Carey Brown, with our annual communications report.
Trade Show – The Ag Industry Trade Show will be a highlight of the convention again this year. There will be over 90 exhibitors to share their products with our members. Producers will have the opportunity to visit with vendors selling pharmaceutical products, feed, livestock insurance, cattle handling equipment, tractors, hay equipment, forage products, and much much more!
Industry Disruptors - New to convention this year, join us for two sessions on alternative proteins, and Checkoff Dollars. During session 1 we will discuss alternative proteins with Dr. Sara Place, from Elanco, and their impact to farmers and Nathan Lawson will be addressing the question of what are we doing in Kentucky to address this issue. Session 2 we will be featuring a discussion on how your Beef Checkoff dollars are collected and their guidelines for how they can be spent with Greg Hanes, Cattlemen’s Beef Board, Collin Woodall, National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, and Dave Maples, Kentucky Cattlemen’s Association.
Opening General Session - On Thursday afternoon, join us to hear Dr. Sara Place from Elanco Animal Health discussing animal agriculture in a sustainable food system. Also hear from Kentucky Beef Network, Ken¬tucky Beef Council, and Beef Solutions will give their annual reports on their program activities.
Registration Booth
Beef Efficiency Conference: Production Efficiency Begins with a Healthy Calf
Owensboro Convention Center
Beef Efficiency Conference - The Kentucky Cattlemen’s Association is happy to wel¬come the Beef Efficiency Conference, hosted by the Kentucky Beef Network and the University of Ken¬tucky Cooperative Extension Service, back to the KCA Convention. This year’s conference will involve speak¬ers discussing how production efficiency begins with a healthy calf. Dr. Gordon Jones will welcome the attend¬ees followed by Dr. Jason Smith discussing wintertime nutritional management and considerations for opti¬mizing cowherd productivity and calf health. Dr. Dan Givens will be discussing vaccination and management for optimizing calf health and finishing the conference will be Dr. David Smith discussing anticipating and avoiding health problems at calving time.
Registration Hours
Forages – The annual Forages at KCA pro¬gram will feature discussions on tall fescue: past, pres¬ent, and future. Dr. Chris Teutsch will welcome the at¬tendees followed by Dr. Garry Lacefield discussing the history of tall fescue. Dr. Ray Smith will then discuss tall fescue variety updates followed by tall fescue research updates by Dr. Michael Flythe. Finishing the program, Dr. Chris Teutsch, will be talking about practical con¬siderations for utilizing tall fescue in grazing systems. Thursday Night Live – Starting at 4:30pm, join us in the trade show for the Battle of the Burgers Cookoff, A Taste of Owensboro and Trivia Night! The Battle of the Burgers Cookoff featuring cooking teams from across the state in a competition to see who can grill up the best burger. See page 52 to sign up a team. Also, at 4:30, enjoy some of the best of Owensboro’s culinary community during A Taste of Owensboro. This event will include samples
Wintertime Nutritional Management: Considerations for Optimizing Cowherd Productivity and Calf Health - Dr. Jason Smith, Texas A&M 8:00 - 11:30
West Ballroom A-C Vaccination and Management to Optimize Calf Health - Dr. Dan Givens, Auburn University Vet School Managing for Health: Anticipating and Avoiding Health Problems at Calving Time - Dr. David Smith, Mississippi State Vet School
10:00
Trade Show Opens
Exhibition Hall
10:00 - 12:30
KJCA - Beef Skillathon
Riverview Room
11:30
Welcome Lunch
Exhibition Hall
Opening General Business Session Sara Place, Elanco Animal Health 1:30 - 3:30
West Ballroom Kentucky Beef Network Annual Report, A-C Kentucky Beef Council Annual Report, Beef Solutions Annual Report Meeting Room 220
3:30
KCA Foundation Meeting
4:00 - 4:30
KJCA - Beef and the Environment, with Dr. Riverview Room Sara Place
4:30
Battle of the Burger - sponsored by Kentucky Cattlemen’s Ground Beef
Exhibition Hall
4:30
A Taste of Owensboro
Exhibition Hall
5:00
Trivia Game Night
Exhibition Hall
8:00
Trade Show Closes
from Moonlite Bar-B-Q, Niko’s Bakery & Café, Niko’s Italian Cuisine, The Miller House, and Dalishas Bakery & Café. Finish the night by competing in Trivia Night, featuring a silent raffle Come test your knowledge of cows, Kentucky, and more in a six round, team trivia contest. The top 3 winning teams will receive a cash prize! See page 51 to sign up a team.
www.kycattle .org/convention.html 46
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HOTEL RESERVATIONS:
FRIDAY, JANUARY 17 6:30 - 5:00
Registration Hours
Registration Booth
7:00 - 9:00
County President Breakfast (Invitation Only)
West Ballroom E
8:00
Trade Show Opens
Exhibition Hall
8:30 - 3:00
Silent Auction
9:00 - 9:30
KJCA - Beef Industry Updates, with Colin Woodall
Riverview Room
Regional Meetings
10:00 - 11:00
Region 1
West Ballroom E
Region 2
West Ballroom D
Region 3
West Ballroom A
Region 4
West Ballroom B
Region 5
West Ballroom C
10:00 -12:00
KJCA - Beef Quiz Bowl
Exhibition Hall
10:00
Kentucky Agricultural Development Board Meeting
East Ballroom E
HAMPTON INN & SUITES DOWNTOWN OWENSBORO/WATERFRONT 401 W 2ND STREET OWENSBORO KY 42301 270-685-2005 RATE: $119 HOLIDAY INN & SUITES 701 WEST FIRST STREET OWENSBORO KY 42301 270-683-1111 RATE: $115
Closing Business Session 12:30 - 2:00
Colin Woodall, National Cattlemen’s Beef Association
East Ballroom A-D
615 SALEM DRIVE
KCA Treasurer’s Report, KCA Annual Report 2:00
Trade Show Closes
2:00 - 4:00
Industry Disruptors
HAMPTON INN SOUTH 270-926-2006
West Ballroom A-C
RATE $109
Session 1: Alternative Proteins - Andy Bishop (Moderator), Nathan Lawson, Dr. Sara Place
COURTYARD OWENSBORO
Session 2: Structure of the Beef Checkoff - Tim White (Moderator), Dave Maples, Colin Woodall, Greg Hanes
3120 HIGHLAND POINTE DRIVE
Forages at KCA: Tall Fescue - Past, Present, and Future The History of Tall Fescue – Dr. Garry Lacefield, UK Grain and Forage Center of Excellence 2:00 - 4:00
Tall Fescue Variety Update – Dr. Ray Smith, UK Plant and Soil Sciences
270-685-4140 RATE: $112 West Ballroom D
FAIRFIELD INN OWENSBORO
Tall Fescue Research Update – Dr. Michael Flythe, USDA Forage-Animal Production Research Unit
800 SALEM DRIVE
Practical Considerations for Utilizing Tall Fescue in Grazing Systems – Dr. Chris Teutsch UK Grain and Forage Center of Excellence
OWENSBORO, KY 42303
2:30 - 4:30
Ladies Program: Holiday Entertaining and Décor
West Ballroom E
3:00
KJCA - Officer Elections (Current KJCA Board Members Only)
Riverview Room
3:15
KJCA - Annual Membership Meeting & KJCA Board of Director Elections
Riverview Room
4:00
KJCA - Reception
Riverview Room
4:00
Internet Feeder Calf Sale
Convention Center Lobby
5:00 - 6:00
KCA Leadership Alumni & Past President’s Reception (Invitation Only)
East Ballroom E
Evening Banquet 6:00
KCA & KBC Awards 2020 KCA Hall of Fame Inductions
270-688-8887 RATE $92
www.kycattle.org/convention.html Online Registration closes January 13th.
East Ballroom A-D
Foundation Auction
COW COUNTRY •
JANUARY 2020
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47
January 16 - 17, 2020 • Owensboro Convention Center KCA CONVENTION REGISTRATION FORM
Event
Number Attending
Cost
Totals
Full Registration
(Includes Trade Show, Beef Efficiency Conference, Forages, Welcome Lunch, Regional & Business Meetings)
Trade Show Only
(Includes Beef Efficiency Conference, Forages, & Welcome Lunch)
Student / KJCA Registration (21 years or younger)
$75
x
=
$25
x
=
$10
x
=
FREE
x
=
Names as they should appear on badges. Please only one family or individual per registration form. NAME
NAME
NAME
NAME
ADDRESS
CITY, STATE ZIP CODE
COUNTY (Required)
PHONE
THURSDAY, JANUARY 16 Beef Efficiency Conference (9:30am - 11:30am)
FRIDAY, JANUARY 17 Evening Banquet
$50
x
=
Banquet Preferred Seating (Table of Ten)
$600
x
=
Ladies Program
$20
x
=
CREDIT CARD TYPE
CREDIT CARD NO.
EXPIRATION DATE
SIGNATURE
Total Amount Due
Mail to: KCA Convention Registration 176 Pasadena Drive Lexington, Kentucky 40503
Questions? Call Mackenzie Miller at 859-278-0899 or email mmiller@kycattle.org
Or Fax: (859) 260-2060 REGISTRATION MUST BE POSTMARKED BY JANUARY 8TH
48
COW COUNTRY •
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Thursday, January 16 2020 10:00 -12:30: Beef Skillathon Open to all Kentucky Jr Cattlemen’s Association members as a practice contest leading up to the state skillathon contest. This will focus ONLY on beef and beef cattle, no other species. Areas will be the same as those found at the state contest. Contest rules can be found on the Kentucky Cattlemen’s Association Convention tab. The contest rooms will be closed to only participants and contest staff. If a participant needs extra accommodations please contact Niki Ellis nellis@kycattle.org prior to the contest. 1:30-3:30 Opening General Business Session KJCA members will be encouraged to attend and learn about the happenings in the Kentucky Cattlemen’s Association. 4-4:30 Beef and the Environment with Dr. Sara Place
Friday, January 17 2020
Members will hear from Dr. Sara Place about the truths on beef’s impact on the
9-9:30 Beef Industry Updates from Colin Woodall
environment
10:00 – 12:00: Beef Quiz Bowl
4:30 Battle of the Burger
Open to all Kentucky Jr Cattlemen’s Association members. This will be a live quiz
KJCA will have at least one team competing in the Battle of the Burger. Team/teams
bowl, with teams of 3-4. Age divisions will not be assigned. Participants will answer
will sign up at convention.
beef and beef cattle questions in a quick recall style. The rules will be the same as previous years, and can be found on the Kentucky Cattlemen’s Association website
6:30 Game Show Night
under the youth tab. This year, the contest will be held in the trade show to allow
KJCA will have team to participate in the game show night.
more room for spectators. 2:30 KJCA Officer Elections- Current Board Members ONLY 3:00 KJCA Annual Membership Meeting & KJCA Board of Directors Elections. 4:00 KJCA Reception
KJCA CONVENTION REGISTRATION FORM JANUARY 16 - 17, 2020 • OWENSBORO CONVENTION CENTER • OWENSBORO, KENTUCKY NEW! REGISTER ONLINE AT WWW.KYCATTLE.ORG!
List your name as it should appear on badges. NAME
ADDRESS
CITY
STATE
COUNTY
PHONE
COW COUNTRY •
ZIP
Event
Cost
KJCA Registration
$10
Evening Banquet
$50
Send pre-registration POSTMARKED BY JANUARY 8th with payment to KCA Convention: 176 Pasadena Drive – Lexington, KY 40503 Call Niki Ellis with questions at 859-278-0899
JANUARY 2020
• A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E K E N T U C K Y C AT T L E M E N ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N
x No. Attending
= Totals
Total Due:
49
F R E E
2020
BEEF
E V E N T
EFFICIENCY CONFERENCE
F R E E
TALL FESCUE: PAST, PRESENT, AND FUTURE EFFICIENCY CONFERENCE
JANUARY 16 • 8:30 - 11:00 AM CST
JANUARY 17 • 2:00 - 4:00 PM CST
OWENSBORO CONVENTION CENTER WEST BALLROOM A-C
OWENSBORO CONVENTION CENTER WEST BALLROOM D
Held in conjunction with the 2020 KCA Convention
Held in conjunction with the 2020 KCA Convention
The History of Tall Fescue
Wintertime Nutritional Management: Considerations for Optimizing Cowherd Productivity and Calf Health Dr. Jason Smith, Texas A&M
Dr. Garry Lacefield, UK Research and Education Center, Emeritus
Tall Fescue Variety Update
Managing for Health: Anticipating and Avoiding Health Problems at Calving Time Dr. David Smith, Mississippi State Vet School
Dr. Ray Smith, UK Plant and Soil Sciences
Tall Fescue Research Update
Dr. Michael Flythe, USDA Forage-Animal Production Research Unit
Vaccination and Management to Optimize Calf Health Dr. Dan Givens, Auburn University Vet School
50
COW COUNTRY •
E V E N T
Practical Considerations for Utilizing Tall Fescue in Grazing Systems - Dr. Chris Teutsch, UK Grain and Forage Center of Excellence
JANUARY 2020
• A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E K E N T U C K Y C AT T L E M E N ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N
THURSDAY, JANUARY 16 • 5:00PM CST
OWENSBORO CONVENTION CENTER EXHIBITION HALL Held in conjunction with the 2020 KCA Convention Join us Thursday night for Trivia Night at the KCA Convention and enjoy a night filled with trivia, raffles, and a cash bar! Trivia is free to play and open to all ages. Each trivia team can include up to 5 people. Cash prizes will be awarded to the top 3 teams with the most points and to the team with the Best Team Name. Additional door prizes will be awarded throughout the night. Come test your knowledge of cows, Kentucky, and more in a six round team trivia contest! Trivia instructions will be thoroughly explained before starting and each team will be provided with a score card and a stack of answer sheets. Spectators welcome!
TRIVIA TEAM REGISTRATION FORM Register your team by January 1st and receive 5 bonus points for your team! Registration will also be available on-site. TEAM NAME (Get creative!)
COUNTY
TEAM MEMBER #1
TEAM MEMBER #2
TEAM MEMBER #3
TEAM MEMBER #4
TEAM MEMBER #5
To register, send the completed form to any of the following: MAIL: Kentucky Cattlemen’s Association - 176 Pasadena Drive, Suite 4 - Lexington, KY 40503 EMAIL: mmiller@kycattle.com • PHONE: 859-278-0899 • FAX: 859-260-2060 Contact Mackenzie with any questions! COW COUNTRY •
JANUARY 2020
• A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E K E N T U C K Y C AT T L E M E N ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N
51
Does your County Cattlemen’s Association have the best grilling team in the state of Kentucky? PROVE IT, at the 2020 Kentucky Cattlemen’s Convention!
BATTLE OF THE BURGER! Owensboro Convention Center • Thursday, January 16th at 4:30 p.m Teams of up to four members are welcome to enter the burger cook-off. Members must be active dues-paying KCA members. Counties may send more than one team, but no more than three teams per county. Single person teams are welcome to compete. Register with the form below or find more info at www.kybeef.com REGISTRATION IS DUE JANUARY 6, 2020 TEAM NAME (Get creative!)
COUNTY
NO MORE THAN 4!
TEAM CAPTAIN
TEAM MEMBER #1
TEAM MEMBER #2
TEAM MEMBER #3
PHONE
It’s what’s on the inside that defines us. You know it, and we know it. Because we share the same values. Ingenuity, commitment, sense of pride…
ADDRESS
CITY
STATE
ZIP
These are the values that built this country; They are the values that built this company. Ritchie, proud to be a partner
Entry fee of $20/team per contest. Please make checks payable to Kentucky Beef Council Send registration forms and questions to Katelyn Hawkins at khawkins@kycattle.org or 859-278-0899 Kentucky Beef Council • 176 Pasadena Dr. Suite 4 • Lexington, KY 40503
52
COW COUNTRY •
to the American Cattleman since 1921 FREE DELIVERY - Serving Ohio & Kentucky WM. E. Fagaly & Son, Inc. - 513-353-2150 fagalyfeed@aol.com - www.fagalyfeed.com
JANUARY 2020
• A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E K E N T U C K Y C AT T L E M E N ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N
FEATURE
CA P T I VAT I N G S P E A K E R S TO S H A R E E X P E R I E N C E S , K N O W L E D G E AT 2 0 2 0 CAT T L E I N D U S T RY C O N V E N T I O N C L O S I N G S E S S I O N T O C E L E B R AT E I N D U S T RY ’ S B E E F Q U A L I T Y A S S U R A N C E P R O G R A M A history-making astronaut and a savvy business executive are among speakers who will share experience and wisdom at the 2020 Cattle Industry Convention and NCBA Trade Show in San Antonio, Texas Feb. 5-7. The convention will feature business meetings of the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, Cattlemen’s Beef Board and the American National CattleWomen. Kicking off the event at the Opening General Session Feb. 5 will be retired U.S. Navy Captain Scott Kelly, an astronaut who spent a record-breaking year in space, laying the groundwork for the future of space travel and exploration. The Sky is Not the Limit: Lessons from a Year in Space will include life lessons and personal stories from 229 miles above Earth, a journey that exemplifies the
power and resilience of the human spirit. The session is sponsored by Boehringer Ingelheim. The Closing General Session Feb. 7 will be a completely different experience, including a celebration of the industry’s Beef Quality Assurance Program. Closing session speaker will be Kevin Brown, who for two decades was a successful executive helping grow a little-known family business into an industry giant with annual revenues reaching $2 billion. Brown will share with producers in the audience tools for winning in business and life using unconventional thinking. Sponsored by the Beef Quality Assurance Awards Program, the Closing General Session will be a fast-paced event that recognizes BQA award recipients, and
highlights consumer-directed efforts promoting the BQA Program. New developments in BQA will also be introduced. A special reception for BQA award recipients will be held immediately following the closing session. BQA is funded in part by the Beef Checkoff and in partnership with Cargill and Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health. As it has at previous conventions, CattleFax will present its CattleFax U.S. Global Protein & Grain Outlook Seminar to explore the factors driving the market, such as supplies and protein demand. Dr. Art Douglas will present his 2020 weather forecast for the United States and the world, and a grain outlook will also be shared. The presentation will take place Thursday, Feb. 6, at General Session II, and is sponsored by Zoetis
and Purina. “We always strive to introduce the most interesting and relevant individuals as speakers at the Cattle Industry Convention and NCBA Trade Show, and our attendees regularly tell us we always deliver,” says Kristin Torres, NCBA executive director of meetings and events. “We know the valuable information to be shared by speakers in San Antonio will provide guidance to last a lifetime.” The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) has represented America’s cattle producers since 1898, preserving the heritage and strength of the industry through education and public policy. As the largest association of cattle producers, NCBA works to create new markets and increase demand for beef.
Transform Your Property into a Land of Opportunity ROTARY CUTTERS FROM 4’-20’ HAY TOOLS LANDSCAPE, TILLAGE, LAND MAINTENANCE & MATERIAL HANDLING EQUIPMENT
AND SO MUCH MORE! CONTACT US FOR MORE INFORMATION : 2501 GRIFFIN AVE. SELMA, ALABAMA 36703
800.363.9069
BUSHHOG.COM
Residential and commercial zero-turn mowers from the company that has been mowing your ranch and farm land since 1951.
COW COUNTRY •
JANUARY 2020
• A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E K E N T U C K Y C AT T L E M E N ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N
53
FEATURE
KENTUCKY 4-H L I V E STO C K J U D G I N G T E A M W I N S N AT I O N A L CHAMPIONSHIP
Spread a little seed.
Get a LOT of feed.
Katie Pratt , University of Kentucky Kentucky 4-H took home top honors in the National 4-H Livestock Judging Competition held recently during the North American International Livestock Exposition in Louisville. Members of the Kentucky 4-H All-Star Gold Livestock Judging Team are Chevy Vaske of Boone County, Kasey Johnson of Mason County, Lydia Gosney of Pendleton County and Will Banks of Harrison County. They are coached by Steve Austin, extension associate for 4-H Youth Livestock Programs in the UK College of Agriculture, Food and Environment. They are the first team from Kentucky to win the National 4-H Livestock Judging Contest.
“This group has worked as a team this fall to achieve a common goal, and they did it,” Austin said. “Congratulations to them on a job well done.”
Springtime is the perfect time to improve your pastures and hay elds.
The team has been nationally competitive all season. In addition to the national championship, they also placed first in the Keystone International Livestock Exposition in Pennsylvania and the Premier Stockman Livestock Judging Contest in Indiana. They took home third at the AKSARBEN Livestock Exhibition in Nebraska.
KY-Early Improved Timothy Make more hay and graze longer with this mega-yielding, early-maturing, Midwest-bred timothy. Mix KY-Early with alfalfa and make mounds of hay, or graze it and pile on the pounds.
Renovation White Clover
As national champions, they are eligible to compete in the 2020 International Livestock Judging Tour held June 17July 1 during The Royal Highland Show in Scotland and the Irish Republic.
By adding only 1-2 lbs of this superstoloniferous clover, you’ll boost protein, capture nitrogen, and build the soil. Renovation is also a proven weight builder, even in toxic fescues pastures. Great for building wildlife food plots and pollinator habitats.
PayDay Perennial Ryegrass
Bring more proot to your pocket with this winter hardy, rust resistant, sweet tasting, later maturing tetraploid ryegrass. PayDay’s enhanced winter hardiness extends stand life and saves you money by reducing replantings.
Available through the dealer network of Central Farm Supply of Kentucky 800-777-5923
The Kentucky 4-H All-Star Livestock Judging Team won the national championship in the National 4-H Livestock Judging Contest this week held in conjunction with the North American International Livestock Exposition. The team, coached by Steve Austin from the Department of Animal and Food Sciences, placed first out of 31 total teams from across the U.S. Team members were Lydia Gosney (Pendleton County), Wil Banks (Harrison County), Kasey Johnson (Mason County), and Chevy Vaske (Boone County). This is the first time Kentucky has won the National 4-H Livestock Judging Contest. 54
COW COUNTRY •
kyearlytimothy.com
JANUARY 2020
renovationclover.com
paydayryegrass.com
• A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E K E N T U C K Y C AT T L E M E N ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N
FLEECE VEST (BLACK)
S
M
L
XL
2X
HOODIE (GREY)
A P PA R E L
3X
MENS LADIES $27
$27
$27
$27
$29
$31
WINDBREAKER (NAVY BLUE)
S
M
L
XL
2X
$25
$25
$27
3X $28
TOTAL APPAREL TOTAL
L
XL
2X
3X
$25
$25
$25
$25
$27
$28
S
M
L
XL
2X
POLO (BLUE)
S
M
L
XL
2X
3X
$20
$20
$20
$20
$22
$23
MENS
3X
LADIES
QTY $25
M
1/4 ZIP PULLOVER (BLACK)
QTY $25
S QTY
$27
$27
$27
$27
$29
$31
IF PAYING BY CREDIT CARD
DELIVERY INFORMATION NAME
Visa
NAME ON CARD
MasterCard Discover American Express
+ SHIPPING & HANDLING
ADDRESS
CREDIT CARD NO.
CITY
EXPIRATION DATE
$6.00 = TOTAL ENCLOSED
Cash
STATE
ZIP
PHONE
CVC
SIGNATURE
Check Credit Card
Mail PAYMENT and COMPLETED FORM to: Kentucky Cattlemen’s Association • 176 Pasadena Drive • Lexington, Kentucky 40503 Or Fax: (859) 260-2060 Please allow 2 to 3 weeks for delivery.
COW COUNTRY •
JANUARY 2020
• A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E K E N T U C K Y C AT T L E M E N ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N
55
PRIVATE TREATY SALES CHECKOFF INVESTMENT FORM State and National Beef Promotion and Research Programs Information is required by 7 CRF 1260.201. Failure to report can result in a fine. Information is held confidential per 7 CRF 1260.203.
TODAY’S DATE
ID NUMBER (IF KNOWN)
SELLER’S NAME
BUYER’S NAME
ADDRESS
ADDRESS
CITY
STATE
ZIP
CITY
SELLER’S SIGNATURE
STATE
ZIP
BUYER’S SIGNATURE
Both the seller and the buyer are responsible for making sure that the $1 per head assessment is collected and remitted to the Kentucky Beef Council. DATE OF SALE
STATE OF ORIGIN*
TOTAL NUMBER OF CATTLE SOLD
X X
$1.OO per Head Federal Checkoff
$
$1.OO per Head State Checkoff
$
Total Checkoff Payment for Federal and State
PERSON REMITTING FORM
+ =
BUYER
SELLER
PHONE
*If the cattle purchased came from another state within the last 30 days, indicate from which state the cattle were purchased.
$
Send Report and Remittance to: Kentucky Beef Council 176 Pasadena Drive Lexington, KY 40503 For additional information: call 859-278-0899 or email beef@kycattle.org According to the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, an agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not required to respond to a collection of information unless it displays a valid OMB control number. The valid OMB control number for this information collection is 0581-0093. The time required to complete this information collection is estimated to average 1 hour per response, including the time for reviewing instructions, searching existing data sources, gathering and maintaining the data needed, and completing and reviewing the collection of information. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) prohibits discrimination in all its programs and activities on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, and where applicable, sex, marital status, familial status, parental status, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, political beliefs, reprisal, or because all or part of an individual’s income is derived from any public assistance program. (Not all prohibited bases apply to all programs.) Persons with disabilities who require alternative means for communication of program information (Braille, large print, audiotape, etc.) should contact USDA’s TARGET Center at (202) 720-2600 (voice and TDD). To file a complaint of discrimination, write to USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Avenue, S.W., Washington, D.C. 20250-9410 or call (800) 795-3272 (voice) or (202) 720-6382 (TDD). USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
56
COW COUNTRY •
JANUARY 2020
• A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E K E N T U C K Y C AT T L E M E N ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N
PRODUCT GUIDE l DECCOX PRODUCT GUIDE l DECCOX
Neal Branscum Beef Cattle, TBM Zoetis (606) 872-5395
DECCOX ®
®
INDICATIONS FOR USE IN CATTLE: • For the prevention of coccidiosis in INDICATIONS FOR USE IN CATTLE:
ruminating and non-ruminating calves • For the prevention of coccidiosis in (including veal calves) and cattle caused by ruminating and non-ruminating calves Eimeria bovis and Eimeria zuernii (including veal calves) and cattle caused by Eimeria bovis and Eimeria zuernii PRODUCT DESCRIPTION:
®: Type A Medicated Article • DECCOX PRODUCT DESCRIPTION:
(anticoccidial) containing 6% (27.2 g) of • DECCOX®: Type A Medicated Article decoquinate per pound of premix (anticoccidial) containing 6% (27.2 g) of • DECCOX®-L:per Type B Medicated decoquinate pound of premixFeed (coccidiostat) containing 0.5% (2.271 g) of • DECCOX®-L: Type B Medicated Feed decoquinate per pound of product (coccidiostat) containing 0.5% (2.271 g) of • DECCOX® M: Medicated decoquinate per pound ofpowder productfor whole milk (coccidiostat) containing 0.8% (3.632 g) • DECCOX® M: Medicated powder for whole of decoquinate per pound of product milk (coccidiostat) containing 0.8% (3.632 g) of decoquinate FDA STATUS: per pound of product
• STATUS: Category I drug FDA
• Does not require a feedmill license for • Category I drug manufacture of medicated feeds • Does not require a feedmill license for • Approved for use with AUREOMYCIN. When manufacture of medicated feeds used with AUREOMYCIN, a VFD is required. • Approved for use with AUREOMYCIN. When used with AUREOMYCIN, a VFD is required. WITHDRAWAL PERIOD:
PACKAGING: • 50-pound, multiwall paper bag with PACKAGING: protective barrier ply • 50-pound, multiwall paper bag with •protective M: 5- andbarrier 50-pound ply bags •STORAGE: M: 5- and 50-pound bags
• Store below 25°C (77°F), excursions STORAGE:
permitted to 37°C (99°F). Keep package • Store below 25°C (77°F), excursions closed to avoid contamination. permitted to 37°C (99°F). Keep package closed to avoid contamination. KEY POINTS:
Developed specifically for coccidiosis KEY• POINTS: • • •
• • •
• A non-antibiotic anticoccidial Developed specifically for coccidiosis •A non-antibiotic Effective in preventing coccidiosis by anticoccidial stopping the development of coccidia early in Effective in preventing coccidiosis by the life cycle stopping the development of coccidia early in • Reduces the life cycletreatment costs and performance losses associated with clinical outbreaks Reduces treatment costs and performance • The associated only anticoccidial medication approved losses with clinical outbreaks for use in veal calves The only anticoccidial medication approved • Versatile applications in dairy (milk replacer, for use in veal calves whole milk, complete feeds) and beef Versatile applications in dairy (milk replacer, operations (top dress and complete feeds) whole milk, complete feeds) and beef • Approved(top for dress use inand combination operations complete with feeds) AUREOMYCIN,® providing respiratory Approved for use in combination with treatment and coccidiosis prevention. AUREOMYCIN,® providing respiratory treatment and coccidiosis prevention.
• No withdrawal is required prior to slaughter WITHDRAWAL PERIOD:
•
• Package indicates EXPIRATION PERIOD:expiration date
See reverse side for complete use directions, product claims, and additional information. See reverse side for complete use directions, product claims, and additional information.
• Do not feed to cows producing • No withdrawal is required prior to milk slaughter • for food • Do not feed to cows producing milk •EXPIRATION for food PERIOD: • Package indicates expiration date
All trademarks are the property of Zoetis Services LLC or a related company or a licensor unless otherwise noted. ©2016 Zoetis Services LLC. All rights reserved. DCX-00006 All trademarks are the property of Zoetis Services LLC or a related company or a licensor unless otherwise noted. ©2016 Zoetis Services LLC. All rights reserved. DCX-00006
COW COUNTRY •
JANUARY 2020
• A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E K E N T U C K Y C AT T L E M E N ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N
57
MEMBERSHIP DIVISION 3 (UP TO 75 MEMBERS)
2020
2019
Twin Lakes
64
52
12
Mountain
59
75
-16
Grant
56
73
-17
Muhlenberg
55
74
-19
Webster
52
72
-20
involving beef cattle. The benefit of
Pendleton
51
66
-15
interaction among local members,
Taylor
50
74
-24
Woodford
45
55
-10
Hancock
45
55
-10
personnel is rewarding in many ways.
Out of State
44
66
-22
Nelson
41
63
-22
Steve & Carol Peddicord
Oldham
40
53
-13
Clinton County
Carroll
38
44
-6
Ohio
37
63
-26
Mason
36
46
-10
Robertson
35
32
3
Highlands
32
44
-12
Being a member of KCA and your local association is an important way to stay abreast of current issues
guest speakers, and UK Extension
DIVISION 1 (151+ MEMBERS)
2020
2019
Difference
Barren
368
496
-128
Adair
264
317
-53
Daviess
107
Shelby
260
361
-101
Pulaski
103
Breckinridge
250
410
-160
Marion
250
302
-52
Bath
225
277
-52
Madison
221
265
-44
Grayson
220
250
-30
Lincoln
193
249
-56
Christian
168
178
-10
Washington
163
193
Harrison
141
Clark
Difference
DIVISION 2 (76-150 MEMBERS)
2020
2019
Difference
Franklin
120
128
-8
Union
32
61
-29
136
-29
Todd
32
63
-31
101
2
Estill
29
49
-20
Rockcastle
28
53
-25
Butler
27
29
-2
Simpson
27
33
-6
Clay
26
35
-9
Wayne
26
41
-15
Nicholas
26
42
-16
Lewis
26
39
-13
Montgomery
24
45
-21
Garrard
87
79
8
Trigg
76
104
-28
Edmonson
75
93
-18
Louisville Area
75
78
-3
Metcalfe
74
136
-62
Trimble
73
108
-35
-30
Boyle
70
95
-25
152
-11
Jackson
69
112
-43
Calloway
21
22
-1
136
251
-115
Scott
68
105
-37
McLean
21
32
-11
Green
135
151
-16
Bourbon
68
77
-9
Hopkins
20
31
-11
Jessamine
134
215
-81
Caldwell-Lyon
67
117
-50
Menifee
20
18
2
Meade
127
193
-66
Fleming
66
122
-56
Knox
19
67
-48
Hardin
123
195
-72
Campbell
66
78
-12
Crittenden
18
26
-8
Logan
121
248
-127
Northeast Area
65
113
-48
Bullitt
17
38
-21
Larue
117
172
-55
17
35
-18
Warren
114
168
-54
Casey
110
187
-77
Monroe
109
157
-48
Mercer
106
165
-59
Henry
105
157
-52
Laurel
104
149
-45
Northern Kentucky
98
153
-55
Hart
82
263
-181
Bracken
60
193
-133
Allen
26
132
-106
Fayette
65
78
-13
McCreary
Purchase Area
58
78
-20
Livingston
17
25
-8
Whitley
14
50
-36
Henderson
9
12
-3
Magoffin
7
10
-3
Powell
6
8
-2
River Hills
4
7
-3
Gallatin
4
4
0
Eastern Foothills
3
4
-1
Pike
3
5
-2
Bell
1
1
0
Harlan
1
1
0
Owen
48
94
-46
Russell
48
78
-30
Clinton-Cumberland
41
76
-35
Anderson
36
97
-61
2020
Totals as of: December 10, 2019
7,465
2019
10,775
Difference
-3,310
If you need anything for membership, please contact Nikki Whitaker at (859) 278-0899 or nwhitaker@kycattle.org 58
COW COUNTRY •
JANUARY 2020
• A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E K E N T U C K Y C AT T L E M E N ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N
2019-20 MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION * MEMBERSHIP YEAR 10/1/19– 9/30/20
NAME
SPOUSE NAME
FARM NAME
ADDRESS
CITY
STATE
COUNTY
RECRUITED BY
PHONE
FAX
ZIP
*Payments of KCA membership dues are tax deductible for most members as an ordinary and necessary business expense. However, charitable contributions of gifts to KCA are not tax deductible for Federal Income Tax purposes. Due to new IRS regulations, $2.24 of your dues would not be deductible. Approximately $12 of your dues will go towards the monthly publication Cow Country News. PLEASE CHECK THE MEMBERSHIP(S) YOU WOULD LIKE TO JOIN: KCA MEMBERSHIP ($30/YR) Membership dues are $30 unless otherwise listed below
NEW
RENEWAL
NEW
RENEWAL
KCA COUPLE MEMBERSHIP To add your spouse, please add $15 to your KCA Membership KENTUCKY JUNIOR CATTLEMEN’S ASSOCIATION ($10/YR)
I WOULD LIKE ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ON THE YOUNG PRODUCER’S COUNCIL TOTAL MEMBERSHIP: KCA
KJCA
$
TOTAL CONTRIBUTIONS: CATTLEMEN’S FOUNDATION DONATION (voluntary)
$
TOTAL AMOUNT ENCLOSED: ALL DONATIONS TO KCF ARE TAX DEDUCTIBLE
COW COUNTRY •
$
JANUARY 2020
Allen ................................$40 Anderson ........................$25 Bourbon ..........................$20 Boyle ...............................$35 Bullitt ...............................$20 Butler ..............................$25 Franklin ...........................$25 Highlands .......................$20 (Boyd, Floyd, Johnson, Lawrence, & Martin)
Hopkins ...........................$35 Laurel ..............................$35 Lewis ..............................$35 Lincoln ............................$25 Louisville Area ................$20 (Jefferson, & Spencer) McCreary ........................$25 Magoffin ..........................$20 Menifee ...........................$25
Mountain........................$25 (Breathitt, Knott, Lee, Leslie, Letcher, Morgan, Owsley, Perry & Wolfe) Oldham ...........................$35 Taylor ..............................$20 Twin Lakes ......................$20 Warren ............................$40 Wayne .............................$25 Whitley ............................$25 Woodford ........................$25
IF YOU WOULD ALSO LIKE TO JOIN THE NATIONAL CATTLEMEN’S BEEF ASSOCIATION The NCBA is now a State Marketing Partner with the KCA. You can pay your dues to both organizations with one check, at the same time. # HEAD 1-100
$
COUNTY DUES Dues are $30 except for the counties listed below.
DUES $150
# HEAD 1,001-1,250
DUES $1,150
101-250
$300
1,251-1,500
$1,400
251-500
$450
1,501-1,750
$1,650
501-750
$650
1,751-2,000
$1,900
751-1000
$650
> 2,000
$1,900 + .38/HD
Complete and return to: Kentucky Cattlemen’s Association 176 Pasadena Drive • Suite 4 • Lexington, KY 40503 For faster service, join online at www.kycattle.org
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KENTUCKY BEEF COUNCIL NIKI ELLIS KBC Director of Education As most everyone who reads my articles know, I absolutely love working with our youth across the state. However, getting to work with youth who are already passionate about our industry makes my job so much more rewarding. Kentucky’s young cattlemen and cattlewomen are always eager to learn about beef beyond our state and learn about what our calves are doing once they leave. Through our partnership with the University of Nebraska- Lincoln, we are fortunate to send a group of young beef enthusiasts to the Nebraska Youth Beef Leadership Symposium (NYBLS). The impact this partnership has is unmeasurable. Students chosen this year were: Chevy Vaske (Boone), Mandy Cloe (Grant), Madison Warren (Lincoln), Catie Wharton (Fayette), Will Banks (Harrison), Walter Baker (Adair), Zach Wyatt (Pendleton), Ryan Underwood (Taylor), and Kasey Johnson (Mason). To be selected a student must first fill out the Kentucky Beef Council application, then complete an in person interview. Participants are selected based on academic success, passion for the beef industry, and outstanding character. Those selected this year were nothing short of praiseworthy. This was also our largest group to date, representing the growth/popularity of the program and the depth of quality in our applicants. Each year Kentucky’s group leaves a few days prior to the symposium to tour beef industry stops. This year we were fortunate enough to fly into Denver, CO and adventure across the Sand Hills in Western NE. While in Colorado the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association hosted our group to highlight checkoff programs happening at the federal level. Attendees heard from leadership on each area of focus as well as the history behind the checkoff. The entire staff answered every question and even opened up their “tool boxes” so that our group could see what makes their checkoff programs run. Seeing the command center that monitors every type of media and alerts staff to spikes in change in real time was a favorite for our social network driven youth. Careers, majors, entry level positions and internships were top 60
conversation at the end our time at the NCBA office. Our youth also realized the importance of being involved in grass roots associations to better their industry and communities. After leaving Denver, we traveled to Kersey, CO to the Five Rivers Feeding Kuner Lot. Simply pulling on to the yard was a moving experience for our group. The first time most had ever seen that amount of cattle in one spot, over 80,000, which still turns my head. Learning about the cattle feeding sector had jaws on the floor during most of the Five Rivers presentation. A whole new world to understand but try to relate to. Touring the facilities on foot sparked lots of conversation about facilities, water and soil quality, vaccination protocol and genetics. Five Rivers left no door unopened to the inquisitive group that we had, and shared what makes them love this sector of the industry. Careers and internship opportunities were a popular topic and made our young beef leaders realize that the world of feeding was more attainable to be a part of than they had realized. There we were greeted and given a tour by complex manager Dr. Brad Carlson. We were shown the safety and sanitation steps taken to ensure the ready to eat products leaving the plant are safe for consumers. Then we began the drive to the Sand Hills of NE. We began our NE adventure at the Nebraska Bull Service where the staff there welcomed us to see everything their business has to offer. Biosecurity isn’t a term that is as strong in our industry as compared to some others, but at the bull service level they highlighted the importance of bull health on semen production. Our group was able to see live collections, and how that semen is handled in the lab to test and store it for the owners/buyers. International marketing of semen and embryos is very complex. Every country has its own standards of storage. Learning about the hardships of shipping a viable product was very interesting to see the steps taken to protect a customer’s investment. Later that day we ventured on to the Ogallala Livestock Auction for a special feeder calf sale, and before you askYes Lonesome Dove fans that Ogallala.
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KENTUCKY BEEF COUNCIL
Seeing the difference in marketing and calf management was truly interesting for our group. Looking at a system that they already participate in is always interesting. They watched 8000 calves go through as much larger drafts than they are accustomed to at home. However, they felt very comfortable sipping black coffee and taking calves with the locals. A favorite is always walking the cat walk over the open pens, and watching the pen riders at work. That night we headed to Lincoln to prepare for the symposium.
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The Symposium itself is three days, throughout their time there students learn about industry hot topics, new beef innovations, and about the university itself. Students were able to learn about genetics, selection, products, nutrition, and behavior. These topics were covered by university facility, Nebraska beef influencers, and Omaha Steaks chefs. Throughout the symposium what is learned is applied to a group project, that has students work together to market a new beef cut in a “Shark Tank” style presentation. While working on projects,
each student is observed to help in selecting scholarship recipients. Kentucky attendees always fair well with the presentation and this time was no different, Kasey Johnson’s team won the product marketing contest while Will Banks team placed second. We also had 2 students receive scholarships to the University of Nebraska, Kasey Johnson and Will Banks. Catie Wharton finished third with her team. Apart from the accomplishment of the symposium these kids made connections
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that will last a lifetime. The power of van rides and few inside jokes will keep them bonded together through their future adventures. The group that starts out on this trip is not the group that I bring home. Each individual grows in their own way, and the group as a whole brings back a new dynamic to our state. I believe the drive and passion inside the bellies of this group will be easily seen in the coming years. I’m proud to have gotten to know them and induct them into the NYBLS alumni group that continues to grow.
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KENTUCKY BEEF NETWORK
BECKY THOMPSON KBN Director
Holiday Season
2020
COW-CALF CONFERENCES
FOR NEW AND EXPERIENCED PRODUCERS!
JAN 8
Grand Rivers
JAN 9
Madisonville
JAN 22
Morehead
JAN 29
Shelbyville
In December I met with the Kentucky Agricultural Development Board (KADB) recipient review committee and Governor’s Office of Agricultural Policy (GOAP) staff to review our program updates for KBN X in anticipation of our annual presentation at the end of December to show progress towards our goals to receive funding for our 2nd year of work. I appreciate the time the committee members and staff took to go through our report and listen to our updates to gain a better understanding of their impact for Kentucky farmers. The KADB and GOAP staff should be commended for their dedication toward the Kentucky Agricultural Development Fund making sure each applicant and program will somehow impact rural Kentucky agriculture. The board and staff show huge passion for the future of Kentucky agriculture.
MAR 16
Monticello
Winter CPH Sales
MAR 17
Campbellsville
MAR 18
Bowling Green
MAR 19
Elizabethtown
Spring*
Richmond
Fall*
Burlington
Fall*
Danville
Join us for a day dedicated to improving the profitability of beef cow-calf operations at one of a dozen cow-calf profitability conferences across Kentucky. Conferences are one day, intensive seminars focusing on key topics for cow-calf producers.
• • • • •
CONTROLLING PRODUCTION COSTS IMPROVING WINTER FEEDING PRACTICES OPTIMIZING STOCKING RATES MANAGING THE COWHERD WITH PROFIT IN MIND GENERAL FARM MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES
*dates to be announced
Delivered by University of Kentucky Agricultural Economics Extension through the Kentucky Beef Network funded by the Kentucky Agriculture Development Board.
For questions, times, or to register, contact your local extension agent. Details may vary by location.
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December always proves to be a busy month of holiday preparation, convention planning, and attending county meetings. My family and I made the 14 hour journey back to Nebraska to visit my family and attend Christmas gatherings. It is great to have my girls Maelee (7) and Madelyn (6) back on the farm playing in the snow and helping my mom prepare Christmas dinner just like I did when I was growing up.
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There were a little over 4,600 feeder calves sold in five CPH sale locations during the first two weeks of December with two more scheduled the first part of December. Make sure to look at the upcoming sale dates on page 79. If you have current questions on the requirements of the program or historical market information please visit www.CPH45.com or the USDA market reports. Cow/Calf Profitability Conferences Join us for a day dedicated to improving the profitability of beef cow/calf operations at one of twelve Cow/Calf
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Profitability Conferences. The focus of these regional cow-calf profitability conferences will be to help producers better understand cow-calf cost and returns, identify key costs that are within their control and have a major impact on profitability, and develop a strategy to manage those costs. Please see the ad below for upcoming dates in your area. Facilitators Have you met the Kentucky Beef Network’s boots on the ground yet? Do you know Ben, Charles, Jacob, Jeff, Ron, or Greg these hardworking men are your Kentucky Beef Network facilitators. If you haven’t met your KBN facilitator I encourage you to reach out to them and ask them to visit your farm to see what KBN opportunities we could offer you. KBN’s mission is to assist beef cattle producers, improve animal health, genetics, forages, and marketing opportunities by enhancing producer profitability. All 38,000 cattlemen in Kentucky have the opportunity to benefit from programs and services offered through the KBN. KBN facilitators are spread throughout the state and all have different backgrounds and production experiences depending on their location in the state. They are equipped draw from their own experiences and expertise to help you collect weaning weights on your calves, explain opportunities KBN has with its Integrate Reproductive Management Program, Master Education Series, or on farm environmental practices. The staff and facilitators of the Kentucky Beef Network are here for you, the Kentucky beef producer. We can provide services to add value to your cattle and protect your livelihood as a beef producer, but most of all we can be your companion. If you ever have any ideas on how we can help you more, please call our office and give us your suggestions. I hope to see you all at convention. Happy New Year!
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KENTUCKY BEEF NETWORK
EDEN SHALE FARM UPDATE DAN MILLER KBN Industry Coordinator
As we start the new year, I can’t help but think about both the challenges and successes of last year. Farming is hard, there are challenges everyday that we must address to remain on track, less we fall behind never to catch up. But thankfully there are rewards as well. Rewards that outshine the challenges. Rewards such as watching a new calf run in the lush spring grass. Rewards such as watching a brilliant sunset over a freshly mowed hay field. Rewards such as knowing you have made your farm a little better than when you got it. But as rewarding as farming can be the challenges are real, and 2019 certainly had its share. When I visit other producers at their operations there are always two topics that start the conversation.
The first one is the weather. And that is because weather is the one constant that farmers have to deal with that can dictate our work down to the hour. We do everything because of the weather. We hurry up because of the weather. We wait because of the weather. We record the weather. We, sometimes foolishly, try to predict the weather. All because the weather controls every aspect of our operations. 2019 was a challenging weather year. We started off wet. There was mud, lots and lots of mud. And the rains didn’t let up going into summer. The first cutting of hay season was wet. There was both a lot of hurrying up and a lot of waiting in the hay fields. But then when the rain stopped, it dried up completely. The latter
half of the summer was the driest that we had experienced since 2012. Much of the state was in the severe drought category and didn’t see rain for nearly 90 days. And to make matters worse, the dry and heat persisted into October. There was no fall weather to speak of this year. It simply jumped from summer to winter. At Eden Shale Farm, there were exactly 40 days between the last 90 degree day and the first snow fall with a low of 7 degrees! There is no denying that the second half of the year was very challenging in regards to both weather and consequently, forages. The drought dried up all the grass, and the short fall window was not long enough to gain any regrowth. Some producers have been feeding hay since August, and its still a long way out until the grass will start growing again. I’m afraid mud is going to be another huge problem this spring given the conditions going into the winter. Weather; we talk about it so often because it is the largest challenge in our day to day operations. The second topic that always comes up
with producers is the markets. “How’s the cattle prices doin?” “What’s the market going to do this year?” “You think they’ll go up any?” This is always how the conversation starts. My response is always the same, I have no idea… What I do know is that things are volatile and can and will change quickly. We operate in a global economy and everything has a ripple effect. Whether it’s a packing plant burning or an ill-timed tweet, you can guarantee it will have an effect on the markets. This is a new age and the traditional cycles of marketing cattle don’t hold true. I would suggest you stay open to what the markets are giving you, and don’t get caught up in tradition. 2020 will certainly be a challenging year. But I know this, farmers are eternal optimist. Farmers are forever resilient, and we will find a way to continue doing what we love. Which is producing the safest, most secure source of food on the planet. So for all the challenges that will come our way this year, may you find greater rewards.
K E N T U CK Y B E E F N E T W O R K F ACI L I T AT O R S
Ben Lloyd
Whitesville, KY (270) 993-1074 strridge@aol.com COW COUNTRY •
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Charles Embry
Cave City, KY (270) 646-5939 dale.embry@yahoo.com
Jacob Settles
Springfield, KY (859) 805-0724 jacob.settles4@yahoo.com
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Ron Shrout
Winchester, KY (606) 205-6143 ronshrout@bellsouth.net
Jeff Stephens
Ewing, KY (606) 782-7640 stephensbeef@gmail.com 63
FEATURE
W H AT ’ S I N YO U R WA L L E T ? Steve Higgins I love looking at farms, their layouts, and their structures. I love seeing great designs, evidence of thoughtful planning, and the architectural features of older buildings and structures. I spend time imagining the history behind them. The thought and expense that has gone into some structures gives a strong indication of the aspirations producers had for their operation. Conversely, when I see poorly located structures and layouts, I feel sad when I think of the day-in and day-out drudgery that the owner, family, and livestock must have experienced. By the time I see some of these buildings their initial luster has gone, as have the people who worked in them, but the artifacts of innovative and labor-saving designs are still evident. You can see detail and craftsmanship that goes way beyond what we would build today. Today, I see very few producers who grow their own locust fence posts, let alone harvest timber from their farms to build buildings and structures. When did this change and why? Recently, I visited the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve in the Flint Hills region of Kansas. The farmstead and main barn there were built around 1881 (Figure 1). Figures 2 and 3 show the main barn and a gatepost, made of stone, adjacent to the barn, which, to this day, is still in use. The story that I heard was that the post was quarried and hauled a significant distance by wagon to get it to the farm. This was not the only stone structure or gatepost still operational at the site. It is not unusual for me to see structures on farms, dating back 100 years or more that are still standing and still in use. Heck, if it weren’t for these structures and buildings, we probably wouldn’t have any. The point I want to make is if you are going to build, remodel, or renovate a farm structure, design and build it so that it works and lasts, because there may not be an opportunity to do it over. You may have never thought of using stone, concrete, or steel materials on your operation, especially for something like a post to swing a gate. Nevertheless, there are people who have. Depending on the
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math you use, the economics can justify the expense, especially if you plan to pass it on to your heirs. It’s important to ask yourself how much you want to spend. There is a big difference between designing up to a level of performance and designing down to a price. Tragically, any flaws or inefficiencies in the design of projects will affect the efficiency of tasks for years, while also influencing the productivity of livestock. This is unfortunate, as these are, hopefully, the facilities and structures that will be used by individuals and families for years to come. Don’t build something that is going to make the next owner of the operation suffer. My philosophy is to build things that last. I believe one problem is that we use the initial cost as our primary decision criteria rather than the operating costs of the life of the practice. We may want the payback on a practice to be one or three or five years, but if this were the case, I wouldn’t have seen this farmstead still standing after 138 years. When I see most operations, I love to dream about what I would do if the farm were mine. How would I improve on the structures that are already there to save capital? I think about changing the layout to make it more efficient. I basically create a plan and a schedule in my head of the list of things I would change, and in what order. Of course, to build what’s in my head would require a truckload of money. But again, a lack of capital is a design challenge. It forces us to come up with a good design and decide how much money you want to spend, and on what. Then you have the opportunity to succeed, to win, to solve a problem, and the satisfying feeling that comes with it. It’s the inspiration for what I do. For the ideas that I have. It’s also kind of like, if it can be done, it should be done. Then you get to think of how to do it. When you start to put things together for a design, everything seems very rational and analytical. It should be if you want something to function properly, have endurance, and be matched to the capacities/volumes needed. However, COW COUNTRY •
Figure 1. Main barn at the Tall Grass Prairie in Kansas
Figure 2. A gateway made using a stone swinging post installed around 1881. all this analytical thinking started out as a dream, a vision of what could be. Don’t suppress creativity. Instead, ask questions like “Why?” At the end of the day, it’s your farm. You get to be your own boss and make all the decisions. Agricultural producers are tasked with being stewards of the land. You can do just about anything you want within reason. So dream on. Don’t let anyone mess with your dreams or crazy ideas when it comes to conservation and sustainability. I would like to think that we want to improve the land, buildings, and operations that we have. Maybe so we could pass the farm on to our family. Maybe so someone else can appreciate it. Maybe one day they’ll wonder who we were and how we came up with this idea.
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Figure 3. A stone gateway post installed near the year 1881.
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FEATURE
I N C O R P O R AT I N G G E N O M I C S T E S T I N G I N T O THE EPDS OF BULLS BEFORE PURCHASING Dagan Montgomery , University of Kentucky The Potential of EPDs The modern cattleman has come a long way in the past century. No longer are cattle simply livestock kept on grass to live, breed and grow on their own. From regular vaccination protocols to artificial insemination, beef is produced using a wide variety of technological advances. This is perhaps most evident in the realm of breeding selection. While our grandfathers may have simply looked at a bull’s outward appearance to assess its value as a herd sire, we know today that there is much more to a good bull than confirmation and body condition. Most 21st century beef producers are familiar with Expected Progeny Differences (EPDs). These are estimates used to determine roughly how well a bull’s progeny will perform when compared to those of other bulls in the breed. This takes into account the bull’s own performance, as well as that of his pedigree. These are very useful tools in deciding which bull will be right for a producer’s individual operation. However, this is far from an exact science, and should not be seen as absolute. When a cattleman wishes to know an even more accurate and reliable prediction of any heritable traits his bull will pass on to the next generation is when genomics come into play. This is in essence the functional breakdown and mapping of an organism’s genetic makeup, using the DNA and the thousands of pieces of information contained within it. Utilizing genomics, breed associations can incorporate this information into the computation of EPDs making them more reliable for commercial producers. The Genomic Effect on Accuracy The key to genomics testing is data, and lots of it. As with any prediction or assumption, more data to input increases the overall accuracy of the estimate. The DNA of the bull contains countless genes that impact many traits and genomics is the means to better understand how. What this means is that not only can
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we look at a bull’s personal production and reproduction performance, but we can use immense amounts of analyzed genetic information to get very accurate predictions on how a bull’s progeny will perform. When we take the genomics collected from a bull and utilize this in calculating EPDs, along with pedigree and performance, we get results significantly more accurate than by just using pedigree and performance data alone. This also can improve the accuracy of the pedigree information itself, again by using more genetic data. This data is all put in place from a combination of the bull’s parents’ genes, and in turn all of his direct relatives. With a thorough genomics test that looks for specific markers within the DNA what we essentially get is a molecular pedigree of the animal, telling us all of the traits passed from each of his predecessors. Why Accuracy Matters So what does this improved accuracy mean for us from a commercial standpoint as stock growers? It means we can take advantage of this tool to reduce the chances of buying a bad bull. By using performance data and pedigree alone we cannot tell for sure how the dam’s genetics could affect the calf. Using coat color as an example, something very significant in today’s market, even the most experienced cattleman cannot look at a bull’s pedigree and tell what color his calves will be. A solid black bull with solid black parents and grandparents, when bred with a black cow, can still produce red calves. This is because they may not have been homozygous for black coat color, but heterozygous, possessing both the red and black coat alleles. Phenotypically (outwardly) they are black because of the dominant nature of the black allele. Using genomics, a buyer can look to see whether or not a bull is heterozygous (Bb) or homozygous (BB) for black hide. By choosing homozygous black bulls, we are confident that, even if mated to a red cow, the two dominant alleles will render only black hided
calves. Another instance where this is useful is with horned versus polled cattle. A bull that is homozygous for the polled gene will never throw horned calves. This technology also applies to various genetic conditions such as dwarfism. Without genomics testing our bulls, we can never be certain of these traits appearing in our calves. Using genomics, there is no guessing. The Unforeseen Effects of Genes The use of genomics comes into play in an even more complex and hard to see way when we look at genetically specific conditions, such as embryonic lethals. Genetic conditions can lead to a variety of issues such as predisposition to certain diseases and health issues. Looking at a bull and his parents will never tell a producer whether or not the bull will sire calves with such problems. In the case of embryonic lethals, we see a condition where a bull could be a fine specimen, but whose genetic makeup can cause reproductive losses. These are issues that prevent a healthy calf from even surviving, if it is conceived and born at all. There is no way of knowing the presence of these alleles because all carriers of these conditions are unable to be detected by simple observation, and any homozygous recessive animals don’t exist in the population. They all die or don’t even develop. Therefore pedigree and performance will never tell us where these are present. Genomic testing is helping us understand this condition and hopefully avoid it in the future.
picture of the specific traits, both good and bad, a bull is capable of passing on to his calves. While important to remember that just because genes are present in a bull does not mean they will be in the calf due to the mother’s influence, as well as the fact that the sire is only capable of passing on half of his genes, they are still the best way to narrow down exactly what a bull is capable of passing on through heredity. So buy your bulls with confidence using EPDs and preferably EPDs enhanced with genomics. *This article was written as part of assignment in the University of Kentucky’s Beef Cattle Sciences class team-taught by Drs. Darrh Bullock, Jeff Lehmkuhler and Les Anderson. The class was assigned to write an article on beef cattle genomics with the best paper being published in Cow Country News. The students in the class learn about genetics, nutrition, health, reproduction, forages, meats, environmental stewardship and industry issues. At the conclusion of the class the students give a presentation on various beef cattle topics at area Extension meetings.
Final Thoughts on Genomic Benefits to Cattlemen In the end it is quite clear how a commercial cowman can benefit tremendously from the use of genome testing in their bulls. There is nothing wrong with using pedigree and performance EPDs in choosing a herd sire. However, they will never tell you the exact story on your young unproven bulls. Only with genomics incorporated into the EPDs can a bull buyer get the clearest
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Dagan Montgomery is an Animal Sciences senior at the University of Kentucky. His family runs a cow-calf operation in Marion County, where he first gained an interest in beef cattle production. This summer, he had the opportunity to work on a large scale cattle ranch in Northern Montana, where he broadened his understanding of the industry. His goal is to attend graduate school for ruminant nutrition and to one day work in extension, helping cattle producers across the nation
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FEATURE
B E E F C H E C KO F F : T H E D E C I S I O N M A K E R S – PA R T 2 Greg Hanes , Cattlemen’s Beef Board CEO
The Beef Checkoff was designed by producers, for producers, to build value by focusing on key areas of research and promotion to drive demand for our beef around the world. But who decides where checkoff dollars are best utilized?
reviews and hears presentations on all the Authorization Requests (ARs) by the qualified contractors. Total amounts requested by the contractors are typically much higher than the available funds, so the BPOC must determine which projects to fund (or not to fund). This September, for example, the BPCO reviewed nearly $51 million in funding requests and allocated about $40.9 million into programs of beef promotion, research, consumer information, industry information, foreign marketing and producer communications for fiscal year 2020.
The decision-making works with one simple purpose in mind – producers and importers making decisions to fund programs and activities that enhance their bottom lines. As it should be – it’s only right that those with skin in the game are the ones who make the funding decisions. Simply Producer-Driven
A two-thirds majority is required to approve any project, so those projects which appear to provide the best return to the industry are approved for funding. This proposed budgeting plan is then submitted to the full board for approval. If approved by the full board, the budget, ARs and contracts are finally submitted to USDA for approval.
As I described last month in “The Reality of the Beef Checkoff,” there are layers of processes and procedures in place to ensure that decisions are producer-driven at both a local and national level and that checkoff dollars are invested according to strict and specific parameters. This decision-making is mandated through the Beef Promotion and Research Act, and USDA has been delegated authority by Congress to ensure this happens. Producer and importer representation and involvement are at the heart of the Beef Checkoff. It is through joint committee efforts between the Cattlemen’s Beef Board (CBB) and the Federation of State Beef Councils that producers can formally have their say in how Beef Checkoff dollars are invested each year. Certified beef industry organizations nominate individual beef producers and importers to the Secretary of Agriculture for appointment to the CBB. The Secretary then selects individuals from those nominations, with the number of producers in each state determined by the cattle numbers in their state. In 2020, there will be 99 members of the CBB Board. Those members have the opportunity to serve on CBB checkoff committees, CBB administrative committees, the evaluation advisory committee, as well as the Beef Promotion Operating Committee (BPOC). COW COUNTRY •
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Collaboration It’s a well-defined, layered and structured process, full of checks and balances, all of it geared toward ensuring that your voices are heard, and that cattlemen and women benefit from the work that is done with Beef Checkoff dollars.
One of the most important roles for CBB Board members is to participate on CBB checkoff committees, which are comprised of 20 CBB members and 20 members of the Federation of State Beef Councils. These committees are created to match up with key goals that were determined by the industry Long Range Plan (LRP). These committees are Export Growth, Consumer Trust, Innovation, Safety and Nutrition and Health. Over several meetings throughout the year, qualified contractors present preliminary projects and ideas (Authorization Requests) to these checkoff committees, who then score each of the projects,
provide comments and feedback, and request revisions to ensure the projects are as efficient and beneficial to the industry as possible. The updated projects and the committee feedback are then submitted, along with other evaluation results, to the BPOC. BPOC members all go through an intense screening and interview process by fellow producers and importers before they are appointed. It is a very competitive process, which is conducted each year, with many more applicants than seats. Each September, the BPOC (comprised of 10 CBB members and 10 members of the Federation of State Beef Councils)
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This decision-making process fosters collaboration among stakeholders in the industry, ensuring that all decisions are made with strong rationale. For many, the best place to get involved is by attending CBB and qualified state beef council meetings. Meetings are open to the public, and all are encouraged to attend. To become a member of the Cattlemen’s Beef Board, a producer should work with a certified nominating organization in their specific state, region, or unit. Producer-driven. As it should be. When it comes to the Beef Checkoff, those with skin in the game make the investment decisions and benefit from those investments. 67
Roy, Jessica and Cooper Canada
600 Cumberland Drive • Morehead, KY 40351 859-227-7323 • racekannon@hotmail.com
Swain Select Simmental
12113 Green Valley Dr. • Louisville, KY 40243 frederickswain@bellsouth.net • www.swainselect.com
Fred & Phyllis 502-245-3866 502-599-4560
Chi & Angie 502-477-9727 502-287-2116
Judy and Rondal Dawson 1156 Buzzard Roost Road Shelbyville, KY 40065 502-593-5136 • jrdawson22@outlook.com
Shelbyville, KY • 502.639.4337 Bill Kaiser
Kentucky Simmental Officers
President: Chris Allen • 222 Stourbridge St • Versailles, KY 40383 • 859-351-4486 Vice President: Brian Swain • 3906 Pottertown Rd • Murray, KY 42071 Secretary/Treasurer: Lindsay Phillips • 8308 Orangeburg Rd • Maysville, KY 41056
Rocking P Livestock
Mail to: Lindsay Phillips • 8308 Orangeburg Road • Maysville, KY 41056
8308 Orangeburg Road Maysville, KY 41056 Chan: 606-584-7581 Keith: 606-584-5626
FARM NAME
rockingplivestock@maysvilleky.net
JOIN KENTUCKY SIMMENTAL ASSOCIATION
BRIAN & HEATHER SWAIN 3906 Pottertown Road Murray, KY 42071 270-293-4440 wksbswain@murray-ky.net SIMMENTAL AND SIMANGUS BULLS FOR SALE
YOUR NAME
ADRESS
CITY, STATE
WORK PHONE
HOME PHONE
ZIP
Call or visit one of these Simmental breeders for cattle that work!
www.kysimmental.com Membership Fee is $25.00
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1939 Huntertown Road Versailles, KY 40383 BULLS FOR SALE Chris Allen 859-351-4486 callenuky@hotmail.com Dr. Henry Allen 859-229-0755
WAYWARD HILL FARM
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FEATURE
TO P L I V E S TO C K S H OW AT T R A C T S B E S T O F T H E B E S T A G R I C U LT U R E I N D U S T R Y C O N V E R G E S O N L O U I S V I L L E F O R P R E M I E R E X P O S I T I O N The North American International Livestock Exposition (NAILE) wrapped up its annual show at the Kentucky Exposition Center, ending a 17-day run filled with top livestock competition, horse shows and the North American Championship Rodeo. NAILE drew nearly 30,000 entries with competitors, exhibitors and attendees from 48 states and seven foreign countries. The North American Championship rodeo, held in conjunction with NAILE, saw nearsale out crowds with record-breaking attendance. NAILE is the world’s largest purebred livestock show and is considered a major livestock event. The exhibitors and animals that win at NAILE are the top
of their respective breeds. Included are national collegiate and youth livestock judging contests, competition within ten livestock divisions and livestock sales. “During November Louisville is the epicenter of the livestock industry, allowing the local community a glimpse into the agribusiness world and allowing the rural community to experience what our city has to offer,” said David S. Beck, President and CEO of Kentucky Venues. “NAILE is a unique event where both communities comes together for 17-days whether they’re here for the rodeo or a livestock competition.” Kentucky Venues, manages three premier shows at the Kentucky Exposition Center
that bridge the urban-rural divide. Field trip attendance increased by over 30%, allowing more teachers and students to learn about the agriculture industry, farming and livestock. North American Championship Rodeo: Near Sell-Out Crowds The Great Lakes Circuit Finals Rodeo saw the highest attendance in more than 10 years with more than 24,900 fans enjoying the three performances in Freedom Hall. Ticket sales increased by 16% over last year’s event. Lower prices and increased weekend attendance helped propel the North American Championship Rodeo to a recordbreaking year. Bob Hall was the 2019 inductee to the Saddle & Sirloin Club Quarter Horse and Mule Shows Celebrate Successful Year The North American Mule Show returned to NAILE, attracting more than 360 entries in its first year back in Freedom Hall. The Quarter Horse Show also experienced a successful year with more than 1,500 entries with open sorting and roping seeing more than 130 entries between the two competitions. Induction Ceremony for the Saddle and Sirloin Club Portrait Collection The Saddle and Sirloin Club Portrait Collection is an agricultural hall of fame that resides at the Kentucky Exposition Center. Each year a new member is inducted and their portrait unveiled. Robert Hall Jr. is the 2019 inductee into the Saddle and Sirloin Club. Hall has dedicated more than 70 years to animal agriculture and is the longtime owner and president of Central Kentucky’s Farmers Feed Mill and its Hallway Feeds brand. From 1974-2012, Hall served on the NAILE executive committee and was instrumental in the formation and continued growth of the show. For more information, livestockexpo.org.
COW COUNTRY •
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Kentucky Hereford Association KHA Invites any Hereford Breeder to Become a Member! Dues are $25. Send to 2396 Union City Rd. Richmond, KY 40475 Upcoming Events:
2020 KENTUCKY BEEF EXPO
Kentucky Fair & Exposition Center • Show March 6th at 1 Sale March 7th at 1 • Watch for catalogs!
Wells Farm
KHA Officers
President: Tim Wolf Secretary/ Treasurer: Earlene Thomas 859-623-5734 thomasep@roadrunner.com
-HEREFORDS -
Codee Guffey • 1815 Grassy Springs Road Versailles, Kentucky 40383 Phone: 502-598-6355 Email: rockridgeherefords@gmail.com www.rockridgeherefords.com
www.dogwoodherefords.com
MPH Farms
Thomas Farm
Eric & Ronnie Thomas 2396 Union City Rd. Richmond, KY 40475 (859) 623-5734 • Eric’s Cell (859) 314-8256 “Cattle for sale at all times”
WOLF FARM
Registered Polled Herefords Bulls & Females for sale Tim & Peggy Wolf 12939 Peach Grove Rd. Alexandria, KY 41001 Home: 859-635-0899 Cell: 859-991-3484
Peyton’s Well Polled Herefords The Lowell Atwood Family 133 Edgewood Drive Stanford, KY (606) 365-2520 home/fax (606) 669-1455 cell
Paul L. Hancock 8559 KY 56 Owensboro, KY 42301 270-771-4194
6077 Helena Road • Mayslick, KY 41055 Charlie Boyd II · 606-584-5194 Annual Bull Sale second Saturday in March Hereford and Angus Bulls
Victor- influenced cattle bred for performance on grass.
“Black cows need a good Hereford Bull”
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Jackson Farms
WCN Polled Herefords Since 1961
Registered Polled Herefords
Hansell Pile, Jr. 12045 St. John Rd. Cecilia, KY 42724 270-735-5192•270-862-4462 12 miles West of Elizabethtown
Jackie D. Perkins II 367 Mt. Pisgah Rd. • Bremen, KY 42325 270-543-3586 Breeding to produce good cows since 1981.
BECKLEY HEREFORDS L.W. Beckley D.V.M L. Wayne Beckley 284 Pyrse Lane 1420 Fitchburg Rd. Irvine, KY 40336 Ravenna, KY 40472 Cell: 859-779-1419 Home: 606-723-3021 Clinic: 606-726-0000 Cell: 859-779-0962 www.beckleyherefords.com
859-588-4531
Registered Polled Herefords 8103 Bill Moss Road • White House, TN 37188 Home/Fax: 615-672-4483 Cell: 615-478-4483 billy@jacksonfarms.com ® “Farming the Same Land Since 1834”
Pile Stock Farm
Windy Hills Farm
Bill & Libby Norris 2220 Celina Road Burkesville, KY 42717 Phone (270) 433-7256 Cell (270) 433-1525 “Every calf needs a white face”
TS
F
TS TS Tucker Stock Farms F F
“Registered Angus and Polled Herefords”
TUCKER STOCK FARMS TUCKER STOCK FARMS
TUCKER STOCK FARMS
“Breeding Polled Herefords for over 58 Years” John Tucker “Registered Angus and Polled “Registered AngusHerefords” andIIPolled Herefords” 1790 Hidden Valley Lane Breeding cattle for sale at all times. John A. Tucker II John A. Tucker II Hudson, KY 40145 HiddenHerefords” Valley Lane 1999 Walnut Hill Rd. • Lexington, KY “Registered 40515 1790 Hidden Valley Lane Angus and 1790 Polled 270-617-0301 Hudson, KY 40145 Hudson, KY 40145 (859) 271-9086 • cell (859)533-3790 (270) 257-8548 (270) 257-8548 Offi 257-8167 Office for (270) 257-8167 John A. Tucker IIce (270) “Bulls always Sale”
1790 Hidden18-month-old Valley 18-month-old AngusLane & Polled Hereford Bulls For Sale Angus & Polled Hereford Bulls For Sale
Old Fall Creek Farms AHA & KHA member • Proven bloodlines
Hudson, KY 40145 (270) 257-8548 Office (270) 257-8167
Private treaty sales • Visitors always welcome
GET YOUR AD HERE! CONTACT EARLENE FOR MORE INFO
18-month-old Angus & Polled Hereford Bulls For Sale
1874 Old Fall Creek Road • Monticello, KY 42633
COW COUNTRY •
K3CATTLE@YAHOO.COM
198 HICKS PIKE CYNTHIANA, KY 41031
Chambliss Hereford Farms Brad, Carla, Clay and Clint Chambliss 916 Winchester Blvd. Elizabethtown, KY 42701 Home (270) 982-3905 • Cell (270) 668-7126 fax 270-735-9922 www.chamblissherefordfarms.com
Tony & Kathy Staples 992 Knotts Road Brandenburg, KY 40108 270-422-4220 tstaples@bbtel.com
Reed Bertram 606-348-7486 David Bertram 606-278-3630 www.ofcfarms.com
K3 CATTLE REGISTERED HEREFORDS KYLE BUSH
Registered Polled Herefords
Boyd Beef Cattle
TK4 Herefords Polled Hereford and Gelbvieh Cattle 3459 KY Hwy. 1284 E. Cythiana, KY 41031 (859) 234-6956 Ben, Jane, Shelby and Lincoln
Contact Earlene Thomas for more information: 859-623-5734 www.kentuckyhereford.org
Polled Herefords 439 Flatwoods Frozen Camp Road • Corbin, KY 40701 Kevin, Angela, Bobby & Brenda Wells Kenlea & Kyler Murray 606-523-0569 - Home 606-528-1691 - Home 606-344-0417 - Cell 606-682-8143 - Cell wells_farm@yahoo.com
LINEBRED VICTOR DOMINO CATTLE LINEBRED VICTOR DOMINO CATTLE
Multi-Trait Selection Multi-Trait Selection Fertility Disposition
Danny Miller
Fertility Calving Ease Disposition Milking Ability
Calving Ease Milking Ability
www.jmsvictordomino.com 4850Rd. Caldwell Ridge Rd. 4850 Caldwell Ridge Knifley, KY 42753 Knifley, KY 42753 270-465-6984 270-465-6984
270-465-6984 • 270-566-2694
JANUARY 2020
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Kentucky Farm Bureau BEEF EXPO Kentucky Fair & Expo Center • Louisville, KY • March 6-8, 2020 ANGUS Show: 10 AM, Friday Sale: 12 PM, Saturday Tim Dievert, 859-236-4591 859-238-3195 (Cell)
CHAROLAIS Show: 12 PM, Saturday Sale: 4 PM, Saturday KY Charolais Assn. Jeff Harrod - 502-330-6745
LIMOUSIN Show: 10 AM, Saturday Sale: 2:30 PM, Saturday Joey Massey - 606-682-2126 Greg Blaydes - 859-338-9402
BEEFALO Show: 4 PM, Friday Sale: 9:30 AM, Saturday Kyle Skidmore, 502-641-7878
GELBVIEH Show: 1 PM, Friday Sale: 11:30 AM, Saturday David Slaughter, 270-556-4259
PEN HEIFER Show: 2 PM, Friday Sale: 2 PM, Saturday Logan Goggins 859-516-3199
BLACK HEREFORD Show: 12 PM, Saturday Sale: 4 PM, Saturday Tim Tarter 606-305-2289
HEREFORD Show: 1 PM, Friday Sale: 1 PM, Saturday Earlene Thomas, 859-623-5734
TRADE SHOW • March 6 - March 8 John McDonald, 859-404-1406
Major Co-Sponsors: Kentucky Farm Bureau and the Kentucky Department of Agriculture
COW COUNTRY •
JANUARY 2020
RED ANGUS Show: 10 AM, Friday Sale: 10 AM, Saturday Johnnie Cundiff, 606-871-7438 606-636-6896 (Work)
RED POLL Show: 2:30 PM, Friday Sale: 9:30 AM, Saturday Kyle Young, 502-321-9892 (Cell) SHORTHORN Show: 10 AM, Saturday Sale: 1 PM, Saturday Brent Elam - 615-573-5881 Cindy Cagwin Johnston - 217-3706034 SIMMENTAL Show: 4 PM, Friday Sale: 11 AM, Saturday Doug Parke, 859-987-5758 859-421-6100 (Cell)
DON’T MISS THESE OTHER EXPO EVENTS!! Junior Heifer, Steer, and Market Heifer Jackpot Shows Trade Show, and Youth Judging Contest
OTHER EVENTS: Youth Judging Contest Saturday, Check In: 6:45 AM, Contest: 8:00 AM Awards: 3:00 PM Kentucky Junior Heifer Show Saturday, Check In: 10:00 - 1:30 PM Show: 4:30 PM Junior Steer Show Saturday, Check In: 5:00 - 7:30 PM Sunday, Show: 8:00 AM Open Junior Heifer Show Saturday, Check In: 1:30 - 4:00 PM Sunday, Show: 8:00 AM *Kentucky heifer exhibitors will show separately Saturday, March 7 at 4:30 PM and may choose to show in the Open Junior Heifer Show, Sunday, March 8 at 8:00 AM.
*New* Beef Expo Cook Off (Adults & Juniors) Contact Tim Prather, 606-219-7740 More information available at www.kybeefexpo.com
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ANGUS THE BUSINESS BREED
2018-2019 KAA Officers President: Gil Ray Cowles, Rockfield, KY Vice President: Jason Crowe, Irvine, KY Secretary/Treasurer: Anne DeMott, Lexington, KY
64TH KENTUCKY ANGUS SWEEPSTAKES SHOW & SALE • MARCH 6th & 7th, 2020 BOYD BEEF CATTLE 6077 Helena Road Mayslick, KY 41055 Charlie Boyd II: (606) 584-5195 • Blake Boyd: (606) 375-3718 www.boydbeef.com • cboyd2@maysvilleky.net
HERITAGE FARM Tom McGinnis 1024 Hinkle Lane • Shelbyville, KY (502) 633-1634, home • (502) 633-5100, work (502) 655-0164, cell
RAGS ANGUS FARM Richard and Glenda Stallons 1240 Dogwood Kelly Road Hopkinsville, KY 42240 Home: (270) 885-4352 Cell: (270) 839-2442 rstallons@bellsouth.net
BRANCH VIEW ANGUS 927 Old Liberty Pike • Hustonville, KY 40437 (859) 238-0771 • www.branchviewangus.com James S. & LuAnn Coffey, Donald & Donna Coffey Annual Production Sale- 2nd Saturday in April
HIGHVIEW FARMS 827 West Main Street Campbellsville, Kentucky 42718 Ben T. Cox DVM (270) 469-5517 Registered Angus Cattle
SHAW FAMILY ANGUS Jim & Cathy Shaw 935 Miller Road • Hodgenville, KY 42748 (270) 769-8260 www.shawfamilyangus.com Quality Registered Angus Cattle since 1975
BURKS CATTLE CO. 531 Rick Rd. Park City, KY 42160 Eddie Burks • (270) 991-6398 www.burkscattle.com
HILL VIEW FARMS Jimmy Gilles 5160 Lee Rudy Road Owensboro, KY 42301 (270) 686-8876 (270) 929-537
SMITHLAND ANGUS FARM 5202 East Hwy 80, Russell Springs, KY 42642 Charles “Bud” & Pam Smith: (270) 866-3898 Henry & Melissa Smith: (270) 866-2311
JOHNSON FARMS ANGUS Angus Bulls & Females Slaughters, KY Keith: (270) 635-0723 Reese: (270) 635-1137
ST. CLAIR FARMS REGISTERED ANGUS Eric & Sherry St. Clair 13433 Falls of Rough Road • Falls of Rough, KY 40119 Home: (270) 257-2965 • Cell: (270) 617-1079 www.stclairangus.com Performance Tested Bull & Female Sale April 2016
CARDINAL HILL FARMS 405 Cedar Grove Rd. • Glasgow, KY 42141 Mike Elmore: (270) 404-6589 Bob Johnson: (270) 427-1410 cardinalhillfarms.com • mike@cardinalhillfarms.com
LEGACY FARMS Daniel and Lindsey Reynolds 1709 South Jackson Highway Hardyville, KY 42746 (270) 528-6275/(270) 528-6120 www.legacyfarmsangus.com
TAMME VALLEY FARM Jacob Tamme, Owner-Operator (859) 583-7134 jacob.tamme@gmail.com www.tammevalley.com & Find us on Facebook!
COFFEY ANGUS FARMS 661 Hopewell Road Liberty, KY 42539 Matt Coffey: (270) 799-6288 Dewey Coffey: (606) 787-2620 Genetics for Maximum Profitability since 1984
MILLERS RUN FARM William N. Offutt IV 3790 Paris Road Georgetown, KY 40324 (859) 533-2020 • millersrunfarm@aol.com www.millersrunfarm.com Heifers for sale
TWIN CREEK FARM Shawn, Melissa, Devin & Dylan Gibson (270) 337-3072 or (270) 692-5304 Dennis & Emily 270/337-2128 or 270/402-4338 Watch for us in Branch View Production Sale in April
COOL SPRINGS CREEK FARM Guy & Aline Babin 269 Paul Coomer Rd Gradyville, KY 42742 (270) 205-1669 www.coolspringscreekfarm.com • gdbabin@outlook.com
MUD RIVER ANGUS 10 Oak Hill Drive Russellville, KY 42276 Wayne Johnson: (270) 303-6354 Gary Johnson: (270) 498-7208
D&D LONGVIEW ANGUS Danny & Debbie Burris 550 Willie Nell Road Columbia, KY 42728 (270) 348-5766 • (270) 250-3701 • (270) 250-1277
FOUR KINGS ANGUS 250 Bright Leaf Dr. • Harrodsburg, KY 40330 Cary & Kim King Carymking@yahoo.com • fourkingsangus.com Cary Cell: (859) 613-3734 • Colby Myers - Purebred Manager
FALL CREEK ANGUS 448 Corder Farm Road Monticello, KY 42633 Ronnie Corder (606) 348-6588
OLD BARK FARM 370 Ferrill Hill, Buffalo, KY 42716 Kenley Conner 270/358-8057 Registered Angus Cattle
HAINES ANGUS FARMS 5294 Park City- Glasgow Rd. Park City, KY 42160 Kenneth Haines, Jr.: (270) 749-8862
PLEASANT HILL FARMS Gil, Mary, Corbin, Caroline, and Catherine Cowles 500 Rockfield Richpond Road Rockfield, KY 42274 (270) 843-9021 • Fax (270) 843-9005 Located 7 miles west of Bowling Green, 1/2 mile off Hwy 68/80
BURTON & SONS ANGUS Joe D. or Karen Burton • Bryan Carman, Partner, Ridgeview Angus 480 Hominy Hill Rd. Nancy, KY 42544 Joe: (606) 305-3081 • Bryan: (606) 875-3453 Located 15 miles West of Somerset klburton01@windstream.net
Bulls & females sold private treaty. Inquiries Welcome. Sell only what we would buy.
KENTUCKY ANGUS ASSOCIATION MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION NAME
FARM NAME
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COW COUNTRY •
JANUARY 2020
ADDRESS
CITY
STATE
PHONE 1
PHONE 2
ZIP
Return to: Anne DeMott • 1220 Angus Trail • Lexington, Kentucky 40509 • Annaul Dues $35
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KENTUCKY ANGUS ASSOCIATION NEWS Anne Stewart DeMott, Secretary/Treasurer www.kentuckyangus.org • kyangusassociation@gmail.com •
@kyangusassoc •
@kyangusassoc •
@kyangusassociation
Come visit the KAA & CKAA booths at the KCA Convention! Sign up for our FREE give-aways!
HAPPY NEW YEAR!!! 2020 is here and the beef cattle industry’s future is looking up! With every new year come “New Year Resolutions” and this year is no different. Personally, in our operation our 2020 Resolutions include several of
COUNTY LINE ANGUS RECOGNIZED AS A HISTORIC ANGUS HERD COUNTY LINE ANGUS HAS BEEN HOME TO ANGUS CATTLE FOR MORE THAN 50 YEARS Amber Wahlgren, Angus Communications
the same things that we focus on year after year after year: minimizing input costs and maximizing productivity, increasing profitability with each cow unit and doing a better job with our forage practices. We are constantly looking for ways to do a better job and hopefully those things will help us achieve our resolutions. Beef cattle in general have many resources available with which to assist in evaluation and make decisions about your operation. The ability to use the available resources to improve your product is the art of beef cattle production. Visual selection, individual performance, genomics, forage testing, forage production, herd health records, mentors, experience perspective... are just a few of the items that we have available to help us reach our “New Year Resolutions” Wising you only the very best throughout 2020! Gil Cowles,
In 1953, Ottis and his brother, Billy G. Wright founded their farm in Campbellsville, Kentucky. The Wright brothers bought their first heifers for $500 each and they showed calves in 4-H and FFA. The farm later became known as County Line Angus. As a young man, Ottis always heard the media talking about President Eisenhower going back home to check on his Aberdeen Angus. His thought was if Angus were good enough for the president of the United States, then they were what they wanted to purchase. Later on, he learned all the other opportunities the Angus breed had to offer. Ottis’s first purchases came from Oscor Lobb Angus in Gabe, Kentucky, and later from C.W. Burress in Greensburg, Kentucky.
President, Ky Angus Association
Throughout the years, Ottis held onto his best heifers to continue improving the herd. He then started using artificial insemination to improve the herd even more. “I always kept my Angus cows, even when I was in the army with the help of my father and brother,” Ottis said. Ottis has served on his local cattlemen’s association board of directors and also has served as an advisor for his local junior cattlemen’s group. The American Angus Association’s Historic Angus Herd Award recognizes Angus breeders and immediate families who have been in continuous production of registered-Angus cattle for 50 years or more. Visit www. angus.org for more information or to view a list of awarded members since the program began in 1988.
Voyager Georgina 867 won reserve senior champion female at the 2019 North American International Livestock Exposition (NAILE) Junior Angus Show, Nov. 17 in Louisville, Ky. Jacob Marksbury, Buffalo, Ky., owns the winning female. Photo by Katy Holdener, American Angus Association.
Anne Patton Schubert, Taylorsville, Ky., won the John Deere HAVC XUV835M Gator™ Crossover Utility Vehicle giveaway Nov. 3 at the 2019 Angus Convention, Reno, Nev. The utility vehicle features a three-person cockpit with heating, ventilation and air conditioning, power steering, front and rear suspension, and 54-hp gasoline engine. Photo by Eric Mull, on behalf of the American Angus Association.
COW COUNTRY •
JANUARY 2020
APS Forever Lady Stella owned by Anne Patton Schubert, Taylorsville, Ky., won Roll of Victory (ROV) reserve cow-calf pair of the year and A P S Admiral owned by Long Angus, Blue Mound, Ill. won ROV reserve senior champion bull of the year and reserve champion show bull of the year at the 2019 North American International Livestock Exposition (NAILE) Super Point Roll of Victory (ROV) Angus Show, Nov. 19 in Louisville, Ky. Pictured from left are Mark McCully, American Angus Association CEO; Anne Patton Schubert, recipient; Gordon Schubert; and Caitlyn Brandt, American Angus Association events coordinator. Photo by Katy Holdener, American Angus Association.
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REACHES OVER KENTUCKY CATTLE FARMERS REACHES OVER KENTUCKY CATTLE FARM OUR APRIL AND AUGUST BONUS ISSUES WILL BE DISTRIBUTED TO OVER OUR APRIL AND AUGUST BONUS ISSUES WILL BE DISTRIBUTED TO OVER
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CALENDAR OF EVENTS
AD INDEX
General
AGCO......................................................................35 American Angus Association.....................................8 American Simmental Association........................... 27 ArrowQuip.................................................................33 Blue Grass Stockyards.............................................. 15 Branch View Angus.................................................. 80 Bridgeview Angus.....................................................45 Burkmann Nutrition..................................................17 Bush Hog.................................................................53 Byron Seeds...............................................................44 Central Farm Supply..........................11, 12, 31, 43, 54 Central Kentucky Angus Association........................2 CPH 45.....................................................................79 Dievert Sales Service................................................43 Dura Cast................................................................42 Fayette County Farm Bureau..................................... 7 Green River Livestock.................................................4 Hayes Trailer Sales......................................................4 John Deere................................................................. 13 Kentucky Angus Assoc....................................... 72, 73 Kentucky Beef Expo.................................................. 71 Kentucky Charolais Assoc........................................ 74 Kentucky Gelbvieh Assoc.........................................66 Kentucky Hereford Assoc.........................................70 Kentucky Hoop Barns............................................... 18 Kentucky Salers Assoc..............................................76 Kentucky Simmental Assoc......................................68 Leitchfield Truck & Trailer....................................... 14 Mid South Ag..........................................................43 Moly Manufacturing...................................................9 MultiMin USA ........................................................... 37 Oak Hollow.................................................................. 5 Pennington Seed.........................................................8 Pleasant Hill Farms.....................................................3 Red Barn & Associates.............................................. 21 Red Hill Farms............................................................9 Ridley, Inc...............................................................32 Robert Elliott & Sons Angus....................................22 Seedstock Plus........................................................23 Stone Gate Farms........................................................ 7 Smithland Angus Farm............................................ 10 Triple T Farms........................................................... 10 Veto Valley Farms...................................................... 71 Walters Buildings........................................................ 7 Woodall Angus..........................................................36 WM. E. Fagaly & Son Inc........................................53 Yon Family Farms..................................................... 41 Zoetis.......................................................................... 57
January 16-17 KCA Convention, Owensboro, KY (pg. 46-52) January 16 Beef Efficiency Conference, Owensboro, KY (pg. 50) February 5-7 Cattle Industry Convention & NCBA Trade Show, San Antonio, TX March 6-8 Kentucky Farm Bureau Beef Expo, Louisville, KY (pg. 71)
Angus
January 4 16th Annual Genetic Excellence Angus Bull Sale, Cookeville, TN January 25 Central Kentucky Angus Association 56th Annual Winter Sale, Danville, KY (pg. 2) February 15 Yon Family Farms Spring Sale, Ridge Spring, SC (pg. 41) February 22 West Tennessee Angus Association Sale, Martin, TN February 24 Robert Elliott & Sons Angus 85th Anniversary Production Sale (pg. 22) February 24 Woodall Angus 25th Annual Buyer’s Choice Bull Sale, Quality, KY (pg. 36) February 28 Bridgeview Angus Bull Sale, Lexington, KY (pg. 45) February 29 Pleasant Hill Farms Early March Madness Bull and Heifer Sale, Bowling Green, KY (pg. 3) March 13 24th Annual Smithland Angus Bull & Female Sale, Russell Springs, KY (pg. 10) March 30 Oak Hollow 41st Annual First Choice Bull Sale, Smiths Grove, KY (pg. 5) April 11 Branch View Angus Sale, Hustonville, KY (pg. 80) April 25 Great Meadows Angus Association Sale, Campbellsburg, KY
Gelbvieh
March 6-7 KY Beef Expo Gelbvieh/Balancer Show & Sale, Louisville, KY March 28 Bluegrass Gelbvieh Invitational, Mount Sterling, KY April 18 SoKY Select Gelbvieh Sale, Bowling Green, KY
Multi-Breed
January 9 CPH Sale, Springfield, KY January 15 CPH Sale, Lexington, KY January 28 CPH Sale, Guthrie, KY February 20 CPH Sale, Owensboro, KY February 22 North Missouri Bull Sale, Kingsville, MO (pg. 23) March 7 Arkansas Bull & Female Sale, Hope, AR (pg. 23) March 11 CPH Sale, Lexington, KY March 14 Red Reward Bull & Female Sale, Osceola, MO (pg. 23) March 21 Red Hill Farms More than a Bull Sale, Lafayette, TN (pg. 9) March 28 South Missouri Bull & Female Sale, Carthage, MO (pg. 23) April 30 CPH Sale, Owensboro, KY June 17 CPH Sale, Lexington, KY June 25 CPH Sale, Springfield, KY August 13 CPH Sale, Owensboro, KY December 3 CPH Sale, Owensboro, KY
SALERS
The Balanced Breed STRINGER FARMS Bruce Stringer 128 Teresa Avenue Somerset, KY 42501 606-875-3553 76
DIAMOND J SALERS Donald Johnson 11660 N. Hwy 1247 • Eubank, KY 42564 606-379-1558 COW COUNTRY •
JANUARY 2020
WILLIS FARMS • Danny Willis 964 Johnson Rd • Frankfort, KY 40601 502-803-5011 • drwc21@aol.com Matt Craig, Farm Mgr. 502-604-0821
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CLASSIFIEDS RED ANGUS FOR SALE Bulls: Yearlings and 2-year-olds. Open Heifers. Show Heifer Prospects. Contact: Johnnie Cundiff 606-305-6443 or 606-871-7438
PERFORMANCE TESTED PUREBRED ANGUS BULLS FOR SALE Call 270-202-7186 for more info or check out www.oakhollowangus.com for current availability. FOR SALE 19-20 month old Polled Hereford bulls. Good selection. Low birthweight, medium frame. Free Delivery Available. JMS Polled Herefords, Knifley, KY Danny 270-566-2694 Trent 270-566-2000
REGISTERED BLACK SIMMENTAL BULLS Excellent EPD’s. Semen Tested. Delivery Available. Maximize your profit with proven performance. All bulls qualify for new CAIP cost-share. Adam Wheatley 502-349-2665 OVER 15 BREEDING AGE HEREFORD BULLS FOR SALE Over 60 years of Line 1 Hereford Genetics. Also selling 15 open and 15 bred heifers. Chambliss Hereford Farms. 270-668-7126
FOUNDATION SALE VI October 3, 2020 United Producers, Bowling Green, KY Selling FULLBLOOD & PUREBRED LIMOUSIN Genetics For info call : A C H Holdings, LLC Stephen Haynes 270-799-8685
SORTING POLES - PADDLES - FLAGS Poles with your 8” decal. $6.20 each per 50. Sorting flag, $11.25. Sorting paddles $9. Ear tag cutters, buckets, grain scoops. Kerndt Livestock Products 800-207-3115
REGISTERED GELBVIEH BULLS & HEIFERS FOR SALE Located in Smiths Grove, KY Contact Trent Jones 270-590-5266
JOHN DEERE 7230 PRE-CAB- LDR- 4WD$49,750 John Deere 6220-cab-2wd-Ldr-$27,000 John Deere 7405- canopy-4wd- $23,000 Knight 8118 manure side slinger-$11,000 Farmco 66 inch x 24 ft feeders-$3900 John Deere 2440- $10,500 New Holland 680 Tandem spreader $5000 Artex SB200-spreader- $26,000 2016-Cloverdale 420 T- TMR- $23,000 5 ton WLS- Stolztfus lime- fert- spreader -$13k www.redbarnandassociates.com Charlie B. Edgington 859-608-9745 10 ANGUS COWS Bred for fall calving. Exposed to Registered Angus bull. Most 3-4 year olds. One or all. Rand Angus Farms 502-639-4085 BALANCER BULLS FOR SALE 24 months old. 270-772-0939 REGISTERED ANGUS CATTLE Bred pairs. Bred Heifer, AI Sired Bull Calf. Rampage herd bull. Beat any comparable price. 270-216-1990
REGISTERED RED ANGUS BULLS FOR SALE * FREE DELIVERY * FOUR WINDS FARM New Castle, Kentucky
(502) 296-1044
Lost Bridge Cattle Company
Livestock Hauling Indiana Kentucky Ohio Tennessee 513-678-1042 Ryan Gries
YOUR AD HERE! MARKET REPORT
SOUTHEAST FEEDER CATTLE PRICES 13 DECEMBER 2019 weights
STEER AK
FL
GA
KY/TN
LA/MS
9-10
128-134
131-137
124-130
128-134
130-136
130-136
8-9
128-136
135-143
125-133
129-137
131-139
131-139
7-8
130-138
138-146
127-135
130-138
132-140
6-7
132-142
138-148
128-138
133-143
5-6
144-156
146-158
133-145
4-5
152-166
168-182
151-165
weights
AL
AK
FL
GA
KY/TN
LA/MS
133-141
118-126
123-131
116-124
119-127
119-127
121-129
136-146
133-143
117-127
123-133
115-125
118-128
119-129
121-131
139-151
147-159
147-159
118-130
128-140
116-128
118-130
123-133
123-135
153-167
154-168
153-167
125-139
136-150
123-137
128-142
126-140
129-143
COWS AL
AK
FL
GA
LA/MS
KY/TN
UTIL
51-58
42-49
53-60
56-63
51-58
47-54
CN/CUT
41-48
37-44
47-54
46-53
44-51
39-46
BULLS
71-79
70-78
73-81
75-83
74-82
68-76
COW COUNTRY •
JANUARY 2020
$15 PER MONTH! FOR AD PLACEMENT CALL
HEIFER
AL
REACH OVER 10,600 CATTLEMEN EACH MONTH. ADS AS LOW AS
(859) 278-0899
Feeder cattle traded mixed from $2 higher to $4 lower this week. Calves ranged from $3 higher to $3 lower. Market cows traded $2 higher to $4 lower, ending with a softer undertone.
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FEATURE TIMELY TIPS FOR JANUARY
H E I F E R D E V E LO P M E N T LES ANDERSON University of Kentucky
The older I get the more I realize that heifer development is as much art as science. The art is understanding what type of female best fits your operation and your marketing scheme. What size cow best fits your management system? Which cows will produce the best replacements? The science is understanding the principles enabling the “right” heifers to succeed. The first week of January is an extremely important “check-point” in spring heifer development programs. Regardless of management system, one key factor dictating cow productivity is a heifer’s ability to breed early in her first breeding season. Data from many studies ranging back to the 1960’s clearly demonstrate the key to cow productivity is timing of her first breeding as a heifer. Heifers that breed early in their first breeding season wean heavier calves, breed back more quickly, and become more productive cows. So the key, then, is to optimize a heifer’s ability to breed early. Heifer fertility is greatly influenced by age at puberty. Most producers don’t consider age at puberty of their heifers to be a major problem, yet few know how many heifers are actually cyclic at the beginning of the breeding season. A Nebraska study demonstrated that the proportion of heifers that were pubertal on the first day of the breeding season varied greatly over 5 consecutive years in a single a herd. The percentage of heifers that were pubertal on the first day of the breeding season ranged from only 21% to as high as 64% over the 5-year period. For maximum fertility and reproductive performance, heifers must have had at least one estrus before the beginning of the breeding season. Our goal then is to incorporate reproductive management techniques to reduce the age of puberty, increase fertility, and shorten the interval to conception. One of the largest factors that regulate
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puberty in the heifer is weight. For puberty to occur, heifers must weigh at least 65% of their mature weight. This weight is referred to as their target weight. Most heifer development programs require that heifers reach their target weight, approximately 65% of their expected mature weight, by the onset of their first breeding season. Because fertility increases until the third estrus after puberty, heifers should reach their target weight at least 30 days before the start of the breeding season. I refer to this date as the target date. January is the time to determine if your heifers are “on track”. Most yearling heifers will need to reach 700-800 pounds (their projected target weight) by mid-April to ensure high fertility assuming that the heifer breeding season starts about mid-May. Weigh your heifers to determine how much they have left to gain to reach their target weight. If the heifers weighed on average 600 pounds and their target weight is 750 pounds, then they will need to gain 150 pounds or 1.5 - 1.6 pounds each day to reach their target weight by mid-April. Heifers should reach a BCS of 5.0-5.5 by their target date. The next important phase in heifer development occurs one month prior to the start of the breeding season. At this time, heifers should be vaccinated (Vibrio fetus, Leptospirosis, and the respiratory disease complex which includes PI3, BRSV, BVD and IBR; modified-live vaccine is preferred), dewormed, and pelvic area measurements should be obtained. Heifers with small pelvic areas and especially large heifers with small pelvic areas tend to have greater difficulty calving. Now is the time to contact your local veterinarian to schedule this prebreeding work. Producers should consider estrous synchronization and/or AI. Estrous synchronization and AI has many advantages which include: higher pregnancy rates, heavier, more uniform COW COUNTRY •
Spring-Calving Cow Herd
Fall-Calving Cow Herd
• Study the performance of last year’s calf crop and plan for improvement. Plan your breeding program and consider a better herd sire(s). Select herd sires which will allow you to meet your goals and be willing to pay for superior animals.
• Provide clean windbreaks and shelter for young calves.
• Consider vaccinating the cows to help prevent calf scours. • Keep replacement heifer calves gaining to be cycling before the start of the spring breeding season. • Start cows on the high magnesium mineral supplement soon. Consider protein supplementation if hay is less than 10% crude protein. If cows are thin, begin energy (grain) supplementation now. Cows must reach a body condition score of 5 before calving to maximize their opportunity for reproductive success. Supplementation now allows adequate time for cows to calving in adequate body condition score. • Get ready for calving season! See that all equipment and materials are ready, including obstetrical equipment, record forms or booklets, eartags, scales for obtaining birthweights, etc. Prepare a calving area where assistance can be provided easily if needed. Purchase ear tags for calves and number them ahead of time if possible. Plan for enough labor to watch/assist during the calving period. • Move early calving heifers and cows to pastures that are relatively small and easily accessible to facilities in case calving assistance is needed. Keep them in good condition but don’t overfeed them at this time. Increase their nutrient intake after they calve.
calves at weaning, and increase production and labor efficiency. The greatest advantage of AI is the ability to use more predictable sires. Since a majority of calving problems in a herd occur when calving first-calf heifers, it seems logical to synchronize and AI your heifers to proven calving ease bulls. Contact your local AI technician
JANUARY 2020
• Breeding season continues. Keep fall calving cows on accumulated pasture as long as possible, then start feeding hay/grain. Don’t let these cows lose body condition! • Catch up on castrating, dehorning and implanting. General • Feed hay in areas where mud is less of a problem. Consider preparing a feeding area with gravel over geotextile fabric or maybe a concrete feeding pad. • Increase feed as the temperature drops, especially when the weather is extremely cold and damp. When temperature drops to 15°F, cattle need access to windbreaks. • Provide water at all times. Cattle need 5 to 11 gallons per head daily even in the coldest weather. Be aware of frozen pond hazards. Keep ice “broken” so that cattle won’t walk out on the pond trying to get water. Automatic waterers, even the “frostfree” or “energy-free” waterers can freeze up in extremely cold weather. Watch closely. • Consider renovating and improving pastures with legumes, especially if they have poor stands of grass or if they contain high levels of the fescue endophyte. Purchase seed and get equipment ready this month.
to schedule a time to breed your heifers. Proper heifer development is one of the key components to profitability in a beef cattle operation. Understanding the art and science of heifer development can enable producers to incorporate management techniques to improve the efficiency of the operation.
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SALE DATES: January 9: Springfield • January 15: Lexington • January 28: Guthrie • February 20: Owensboro • March 11: Lexington April 30: Owensboro • June 17: Lexington • June 25: Springfield • August 13: Owensboro • December 3: Owensboro
COW COUNTRY •
JANUARY 2020
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Selling 350 Head 100 bulls 80 females and 200 commercial females
Add pounds and dollars to your calf crop! Fall bull group average: Top 16% WW and YW.
2019 Spring harvest data on 137 steers: 43% CAB, 92% Choice, 5.39 conversion, and 3.7 ADG GAR Ashland K25
HA Cowboy Up 5405
5 sons sell! MGR Treasure
18 sons sell!
Largest Angus Sale in Kentucky
April 11, 2020 • Hustonville, KY
8 sons sell!
branchviewangus.com 859-533-1301 or 606-706-0355 james@branchviewangus.com James S. and LuAnn Coffey Donald and Donna Coffey