GELBVIEH
HERD REFERENCE EDITION
HAROLD BERTZ EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR haroldb@gelbvieh.org
TOM STRAHM COMMERCIAL MARKETING DIRECTOR tom@gelbvieh.org
WESS ANGLIN COMMERCIAL MARKETING SPECIALIST wess@gelbvieh.org
MALERIE MARKLEY GELBVIEH MEDIA PRODUCTIONS COORDINATOR malerie@gelbvieh.org
MARTHA MOENNING MEMBER & YOUTH ACTIVITIES COORDINATOR martha@gelbvieh.org
MEGAN UNDERWOOD, M.S. COMMUNICATIONS COORDINATOR meganu@gelbvieh.org
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE ASSOCIATION STAFF
DAN WARNER, PRESIDENT BEAVER CITY, NEB. • 308.962.6511 dan@warnerbeef.com
STUART JARVIS, VICE PRESIDENT PHILLIPSBURG, KAN. • 785.543.8120 bararrow@ruraltel.net
SARAH MUMM PERFORMANCE PROGRAMS COORDINATOR sarah@gelbvieh.org
WAYDE PICKINPAUGH, M.S. DNA SERVICES COORDINATOR wayde@gelbvieh.org
MARGO MCKENDREE OFFICE MANAGER margo@gelbvieh.org
SHIANNA OCKEN REGISTRY COORDINATOR shianna@gelbvieh.org
CAMILLE HENNERBERG REGISTRY/DNA SERVICES SPECIALIST camille@gelbvieh.org
GREGG HARTMAN, TREASURER
PUEBLO, COLO. • 719.821.4762 grhartman@hotmail.com
BRENT OVERMILLER, SECRETARY
SMITH CENTER, KAN. • 785.282.0485 brento4532@hotmail.com
DIRECTORS
GREG “BUBBA” ANDERSON MARION, N.C. • 828.442.6869 grega1983@live.com
DAVID LARSON CLEARBROOK, MINN. • 218.766.3323 david.larson.lrl@gmail.com
ZACK BUTLER MILTON, TENN. • 615.308.8628 butlercreek1952@aol.com
DALTON BENNETT RED HOUSE, VA. • 434.664.7946 dalton@knollcrestfarm.com
JOHN SHEARER CANTON, KAN. • 620.654.6507 circle_s@hometelco.net
TROY FORBES DE SMET, S.D. • 605.530.4764 forbes_gelbvieh@hotmail.com
GARY CARLISLE REDMOND, UTAH. • 435.979.0020 garyc@carlislex.com
JUSTIN TAUBENHEIM AMHERST, NEB. • 308.293.0692 j_tauby5@hotmail.com
JOSH PHILLIPS LATHROP, MO. • 816.914.6053 jphillips@aol.com MARK STOCK WAUKON, IOWA.
wammb@aol.com
FROM THE CORNER OFFICE
TECHNOLOGY FOLLOWS THE MONEY
by Harold Bertz, Executive Director
In 2013, the county I grew up in experienced a record corn crop. It was interesting to watch the advancements in technology that occurred the following year for corn production. Producers were inundated with novel production opportunities to increase their yields. A savvy producer shared with me many years ago that technology always follows the money. This became evident by the number of agronomy firms courting our county’s farmers for those extra dollars the following year after their record yields. From my perspective, I could not safely travel the country roads to check cows without fear of being overrun by a pickup with an agronomy firm’s logo on the side, racing to make the next sale.
In 2026, many beef producers are experiencing a similar situation, the driveway is full of vendors offering us the next greatest technological advancements for beef production. Technology is following the money to the beef industry. The added dollars experienced by the beef industry in 2026 provides an incredible opportunity to incorporate tools that will make ranches more productive and able to weather a cattle cycle where prices are not as favorable.
At the recent Beef Improvement Federation Annual Symposium, much of the conversation was on herd expansion, timing and effects. The drought covering a large portion of the United States has slowed herd expansion and helped elevate and sustain profits. Not every area of the country can expand but for producers that can, huge opportunities exist to grow with Gelbvieh and Balancer® cattle. Recent data from the United States Meat Animal Research Center (USMARC) shows that a Gelbvieh female will provide 22.7 more pounds of weaning weight than any other British or Continental breed. By building with Gelbvieh and Balancer genetics, ranchers can create a more profitable cow herd.
The next cycle of research at USMARC revolves around fertility traits and the breed effects on these traits. The initial research indicates the value of hybrid vigor. Though not a new technology, heterosis is still the single most economically important management tool that commercial producers can incorporate in their herds. The work at USMARC indicates that a crossbred heifer has a higher conception rate than a straight bred heifer. A Gelbvieh-sired crossbred heifer would be more likely to achieve pregnancy and provide more weaning weight. Using Gelbvieh and Balancer bulls is a simple, efficient way to capture value while improving the fertility of the commercial herd.
Livestock wearables is a term garnering a lot of attention in the industry right now. These products, designed to track, measure and in some cases fence cattle, provide several opportunities for purebred producers. Gathering and computing data is one of the American Gelbvieh Association’s (AGA) primary purposes. Current technology will allow us to gather information that has been previously difficult to measure that affect traits like health and fertility. Accelerating this collected data into an EPD or tool that can help AGA members create better cattle is exciting to contemplate.
With extra dollars fueling private industry research and development, these technologies are no longer a contemplation, they are reality.
While we need to be disciplined with our use of technology, it is an exciting time to be a beef producer. Gelbvieh and Balancer cattle are poised to have a significant and lasting impact on the industry. The more data we have, the easier it is to prove our value to the commercial cattle producer. I encourage you to take advantage of new and innovative tools that will provide long term profitability to your ranch, ones that make sense. The high prices might not last forever, but increased efficiency and productivity from improved technology will! I look forward to seeing you down the road. F
TCELEBRATE YOUR WINS
by Dan Warner, AGA President
his spring sale season was one for the record books. Demand for Gelbvieh and Balancer® genetics is strong and the data proves it. Data from the 2026 Spring Sale Price Analysis (pages 26-27) reveals that 3,344 bulls averaged $9,021, up $2,424 from 2025. Additionally, females averaged $5,689, up $1,477 from 2025. As seedstock producers we should celebrate this success not only in our operations, but the success this is for the breed we all are so passionate about.
The Gelbvieh breed has every capability to become the foundation of the next cow herd rebuild, and it’s our job as
has an average maternal weaning weight advantage of 22.7 pounds. In today’s market, this weaning weight advantage on five-weight steers selling at $4.50 per pound, would equate to an additional $102.15 in revenue per calf. This data reveals just another advantage the Gelbvieh female can add to any herd.
Not only does the Gelbvieh female shine in a herd, Gelbvieh and Balancerinfluenced cattle shine on the rail. Carcass data submitted to the American Gelbvieh Association (AGA) that was collected from over 5,200 head resulted in 90% grading USDA Prime and USDA Choice with 88% having yield grades of
decisions to improve our genetics to meet the demands of our customers and assist our customers in experiencing the advantages Gelbvieh and Balancer cattle can bring to their herds.
Work with your customers when it’s time to market their calves and encourage them to utilize AGA’s free Feeder Finder service. The Feeder Finder emails are sent to a list of buyers who are interested in purchasing Gelbvieh and Balancerinfluenced cattle and this free service can allow your customers to receive higher premiums on their calves.
I encourage you to help your customers
Over the past four years, I have learned, grown, and been challenged in the best ways possible. I am incredibly thankful for the adult members and mentors who invested in me, as well as the friends and fellow juniors who made this experience so meaningful and unforgettable.
This opportunity has helped shape me into the person I am today and has given me a strong foundation for my future. While it is bittersweet to close this chapter, I know the future of the breed is in great hands with the amazing juniors coming up behind us.
Thank you, AGJA, for the memories, friendships, leadership opportunities, and experiences I will carry with me forever.
INFORMATION EXCHANGE
NOMINATIONS FOR AGA HALL OF FAME, BREEDER OF THE YEAR AND COMMERCIAL PRODUCER OF THE YEAR ARE OPEN
Nomination applications for the American Gelbvieh Association (AGA) Hall of Fame, Breeder of the Year and Commercial Producer of the Year are available at https://gelbvieh.org/membership/coming-events/convention-2. Applications are due September 15, 2026, and can be mailed to the AGA office or emailed to info@gelbvieh.org. Awards will be presented to the selected recipients during the awards banquet at the AGA National Convention held January 8-12, 2027, in Denver, Colorado.
DAM OF MERIT AND DAM OF DISTINCTION DATA DEADLINE IS AUGUST 1, 2026
Calving and weaning data must be entered into the AGA Online Registry Service no later than August 1, 2026, to be eligible for the Dam of Merit and Dam of Distinction honors.
Each year, the AGA recognizes cows that meet rigorous selection criteria including early puberty and conception, regular calving interval and above-average weaning weights on at least three calves to be classified as a Dam of Merit winner.
The Dam of Distinction award recognizes cows that meet the same high standard, in addition to exhibiting long-term productivity with at least eight calves.
DIGITAL SUBSCRIPTIONS AVAILABLE
The AGA offers digital-only subscriptions of Gelbvieh World and The Profit Picture. If you currently receive these AGA publications and would prefer to read them exclusively on your mobile device, tablet or computer, contact the AGA office at 303-465-2333 or email info@gelbvieh.org to change your subscription type. Please make sure that there is a current email address listed on your account to receive the Digital Subscription.
NEW MEMBERS
The AGA and the American Gelbvieh Junior Association (AGJA) would like to welcome the following new members.
AGA
Terry and Jan Allen, Joaquin, Texas
Blueberry Hill Farm, Warba, Minn.
Double A Livestock, Coldwater, Miss.
J&H Johnson Cattle, Holden, Mo.
Rolling Thunder Farms, Holden, Mo.
Greg Segraves, Sparta, Tenn.
Carter Shook, Canton, N.C.
Alex and Molly Smith, Hugoton, Kan.
Abe and Alisha Taylor, Hot Springs, Mont.
AGJA
Elizabeth Bamseberger, Hampton, Neb.
Zachary Blubaugh, Burrton, Kan.
Blair Elizabeth Buehler, Fairbury, Neb.
Myah Conner, Jamestown, Ky.
Rocklyn Funk, Norwich, Ohio
Grayson Grothe, Violet Hill, Ark.
Hudson Grothe, Violet Hill, Ark.
Emma Hackbart, Milford, Neb.
Brittany Heinje, Wilmot, S.D.
Hailey Heinje, Wilmot, S.D.
Harrison Helms, Arapahoe, Neb.
Colt Herbeniuk, Hudson Bay, Saskatchewan, Canada
Scarlett Jarvis, Phillipsburg, Kan.
Grayson Kraus, Burr, Neb.
William Kroneman, Luzerne, Iowa
Sawyer Larson, Clearbrook, Minn.
Maggie Meyer, Herman, Neb.
Brylee Mickey, Aurora, Neb.
Crayton Mickey, Aurora, Neb.
Aubrie Mims, Reidsville, N.C.
Chance Riessland, Pleasanton, Neb.
Trey Sickler, Gladstone, N.D.
Alyvia Starr, Stapleton, Neb.
Harper Steinkruger, Upland, Neb.
Raelyn Stienkruger, Upland, Neb.
Calleigh Joy Struck, Humboldt, S.D.
Ellie Swicegood, Alma, Kan.
Joey Todd, Willard, Mo.
Creyton Warner, Arapahoe, Neb. F
supports informed, data-driven decisions. With customizable the metrics that matter most to your herd. Whether it’s fine-tuning feed programs, or improving grazing management, the registry’s tools forward with confidence or make the right course corrections.
REGISTRY TIPS N’ TRICKS
where your herd stands compared to American Gelbvieh Association (AGA) opens the door to smarter strategies and long-term gains. This is where the “Reports” tool supports informed, data-driven decisions. With customizable focus on the metrics that matter most to your herd. Whether it’s fine-tuning adjusting feed programs, or improving grazing management, the registry’s tools to move forward with confidence or make the right course corrections.
Reports Tab
TTOOLS THAT POWER YOUR PROGRAM
by Shianna Ocken
he July issue of Gelbvieh World is packed with insights, stats, and decision-making tools tailored to help guide your herd effectively. However, all that value depends on one thing: accurate, consistent record keeping. Good data isn’t just useful, it’s foundational to drive profitability and align your herd with your operation’s goals.
Custom Report option on the AGA Online Registry, locate the located on the left side of your screen. After clicking on “Reports” a ‘Standard Customer Report’ appears. This page offers a wide variety data for producers to utilize. EPDs of sires on a member’s production summaries of active females, detailed performance animals in the herd, and more. The page further allows and filter birth, weaning, yearling, and ultrasound data based ranges. This provides a more manageable option for members herd data. All report options, aside from the “Custom Report template built and provide the same data each time, except for within a date range provided in the middle of the screen. something you are looking for? report had just one more fic data? Members can Report Builder” to create reports, selecting the specific view and compare. setting specific date identifiers, and other more information on reach out to shianna@gelbvieh.org.) Once selections are retrieved by clicking the at the top of the page. include all information for the chosen criteria, to analyze and better herd. If you have previously and didn’t save it, a past reports is available at
Understanding where your herd stands compared to American Gelbvieh Association (AGA) breed averages opens the door to smarter strategies and longterm gains. The AGA’s online “Reports” tool supports informed, data-driven decisions. With customizable reports, you can focus on the metrics that matter most to your herd. Whether it’s finetuning breeding plans, adjusting feed programs, or improving grazing management, the registry’s tools give you the clarity to move forward with confidence or make the right course corrections.
ACCESSING THE REPORTS
TAB
To access the Custom Report option on the AGA Online Registry, locate the “Reports” tab
Tab Report option on the AGA Online Registry, locate the left side of your screen. After clicking on “Reports” a Customer Report’ appears. This page offers a wide variety producers to utilize. EPDs of sires on a member’s summaries of active females, detailed performance the herd, and more. The page further allows birth, weaning, yearling, and ultrasound data based This provides a more manageable option for members report options, aside from the “Custom Report and provide the same data each time, except for date range provided in the middle of the screen. are looking for? just one more Members can Builder” to create selecting the specific compare. specific date and other information on out to Once selections are by clicking the of the page. information for chosen criteria, analyze and better you have previously didn’t save it, a is available at
located on the left side of your screen. After clicking on “Reports,” a page titled ‘Standard Customer Report’ appears. This page offers a wide variety of information and data for producers to utilize. EPDs of sires on a member’s quick sire list, production summaries of active females, detailed performance summaries for all animals in the herd, and more. The
page further allows members to select and filter birth, weaning, yearling, and ultrasound data based on specific date ranges. This provides a more manageable option for members to look at their herd data. All report options, aside from the “Custom Report Builder”, are template built and provide the same data each time, except for animals selected within a date range provided in the middle of the screen.
Don’t see something you are looking for? Wish a standard report had just one more column with specific data? Members can use the “Custom Report Builder” to create personalized reports, selecting
the specific data they want to view and compare. Customize data by setting specific date ranges, sexes, identifiers, and other parameters. (For more information on utilizing identifiers, reach out to shianna@gelbvieh.org.) Once selections are made, data can be retrieved by clicking the PDF or Excel link at the top of the page. These files will include all information for animals that meet the chosen criteria, allowing members to analyze and better understand their herd. If you have previously generated a report
and didn’t save it, a complete list of past reports is available at the bottom of the page in the format that was originally selected.
to navigate the Reports function in the AGA Online Registry, please call the AGA office at 303-465-2333 or email registry@gelbvieh.org. F
Access to specific, targeted data empowers members to make informed, ethical, and economically decisions. By iden<fying areas for improvement, they can strategically plan for the next genera<on ensure the long-term success and sustainability of their herd. For any ques<ons on how to navigate Reports func<on in the AGA Online Registry, please call the AGA office at 303-465-2333 or email registry@gelbvieh.org.
Access to specific, targeted data empowers members to make informed, ethical, and economically sound decisions. By identifying areas for improvement, they can strategically plan for the next generation and ensure the long-term success and sustainability of their herd. For any questions on how
Next Level was the high selling yearling bull at the 2024 Boys from the South sale. This homo black, homo polled bull is heavy muscled, bold ribbed and super sound footed. He combines calving ease with performance and power. When it comes to cow families, he has 2 of Green Hills Gelbvieh’s best donors behind him - Lexie 2U1 and Contessa 310T. We feel this guy could be the next widely used Balancer bull. Semen available from Bull Barn Genetics or Cattlemen’s Connection.
DATA BULLETIN
COMMERCIAL FEMALE DNA TESTS IMPROVE REPLACEMENT HEIFER SELECTION
Iby Sarah Mumm, Performance Programs Coordinator,and Wayde Pickinpaugh, DNA Services Coordinator
genity® Beef is a DNA test specifically designed for commercial replacement heifers. Test results are reported on a scale of one to ten across seventeen different traits, including performance, maternal, and carcass traits. These results help producers better understand the genetic potential of each individual heifer while also assisting in replacement heifer selection for the upcoming year. By identifying higher-performing females and culling lower-performing animals, producers can make more informed decisions to help reduce heifer development costs.
In addition to genetic selection, the test also offers parent verification, allowing producers to identify the sires of these females. This added information can be valuable when making future breeding and replacement decisions.
as birth using the Allflex Tissue Sampling Unit (TSU), providing an efficient and convenient sampling process.
No matter the type of operation, Igenity® Beef can be a valuable tool to help producers work toward the goals of their herd.
About the Igenity® Beef Test
• $30 per female.
• TSU sample type only.
• Intended for replacement females.
• Can be done as early as birth.
In addition to Igenity® Beef, the American Gelbvieh Association (AGA) also offers a standard commercial DNA test designed for parentage and trait testing. Breeders can use this DNA
TSU (Tissue Sampling Unit) – Tissue samples are collected using a tissue sampling applicator and are the most popular sample types. TSUs are easy to collect, provide more rapid DNA results, and have the lowest failure rate.
Hair – Hair samples must include the hair follicle collected from the tail switch. Please make sure sample is free of any fecal material and dirt. There must be at minimum 30 follicles in the hair card
Blood Cards – Blood samples are another commonly used sample type. Blood is drawn from the animal, and a few drops are placed on a specialized card. Blood must be completely dry before storing or shipping card. Do not use blood samples on twins.
DNA collection supplies and instructions
FMARKETING MINUTE UTILIZING FEEDER FINDER
by Tom Strahm
eeder Finder is a free marketing service offered by the American Gelbvieh Association (AGA) to assist producers in marketing load lots of Gelbvieh and Balancer®-influenced feeder cattle. The program is intended to provide increased exposure and greater visibility for commercial producers when they are selling calves or feeder cattle through any marketing venue they choose. This could include selling at traditional livestock auction markets, video sales or online listings.
Producers can submit information about their cattle through an online form on Gelbvieh.org/exchange/feeder-finder or they can contact AGA marketing staff for assistance at 303-465-2333. Seedstock breeders are able to submit information on their commercial customers’ cattle as a customer service opportunity. Detailed information including the number of head, sex, average weight, health programs, weaning status, delivery date, and photos or videos of the cattle should all be included in addition to
received. The information is reviewed and staff have the opportunity to reach out to the seller to confirm the information was received. We may also ask for additional information or clarification as needed. At this point, an e-blast is scheduled to be sent to potential buyers.
Sellers are encouraged to do the online submissions at least one week prior to the scheduled sale date. This provides time for reviewing the information and scheduling the final email to be sent out. We would like to have the e-blast sent out two or three days before the sale date. If the cattle are consigned to a video sale, it is as easy as texting a lot number to a marketing team member and we will do the rest.
When submitting information, sellers should keep in mind that they are effectively writing a resume for their cattle, and they are also building their own reputation. Providing detailed information that is complete and
complete vaccination protocols including the specific products used and the dates they were properly administered will help create buyer confidence in the cattle being merchandised. Appropriate boosters for vaccinations and preconditioning length are critical for establishing herd health and immune response. Please include if the cattle are weaned and they should be weaned for a minimum of 45 days by sale date or delivery date. Include information about weaning and backgrounding rations. Feeding balanced rations and keeping the cattle in desirable body condition is an important consideration for your potential buyers. Last but not least, note any third-party verification and value-added programs that you are participating in such as Balancer® Edge. If you are Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) trained and certified that should be mentioned as well.
All classes of cattle are currently selling for record high prices. Implementing best management practices on your operation
Dmost stunning landscapes in the world. The ranch, located in southeastern Montana, spans across flat land and open country, national forest ground, and the broken rough terrain at the edge of the Badlands. While beautiful, both the diversity of the lands and its isolation present unique challenges. With a small team of only four family members to manage their 10,000 acres and 300 head of cows, the Parks family has to be resourceful, dedicated, and self-sufficient.
Charles Parks and his father took over ranch operations in 1986. For 50 years before that, it was managed by his aunt and uncle. Originally, Charles was a mechanic in a nearby town and kept up the business for several years after moving to the ranch. His mechanical skills are an essential part of the family’s ability to maintain their operation alone.
its peak. While he does not maintain registration on his females, Charles’ commitment to purebred bulls means his herd is completely comprised of purebred animals. The docility and hardiness of Gelbvieh genetics play an important role in allowing them to operate with such a small staff.
The ranch also runs about 150 yearlings every year to develop as potential replacements before the cull heifers and all male progeny are hauled to Lemmon,
He was the one who made the decision to
matter what the weather is like in the wintertime and how deep the snow is, if there is grass to pick, they will go pick it.”
When they started the Gelbvieh herd, they started with a small group of donor cows from Spearfish, South Dakota, and found a local veterinarian who could come flush them and put in embryos. Charles noted that purebred bulls have become harder to find in recent years, but he is determined to keep the herd above 80% Gelbvieh.
They have a simple, yet innovative way of managing their herd. Calves are caught, tagged, vaccinated, branded, and banded before they are three days old to avoid the stress and labor required for a branding later. They do all of this before pairs are sent to summer pasture and do not have to touch them again until weaning.
All calves are tagged with the same number as their mother, and heifers who are out of good cow families are quick sorts to the keeper pen. With their unique working style, any indication that a cow may be aggressive towards workers means they are marked to be culled at vet checks the next year. They have also selected for as many polled cattle as possible to avoid the added labor and cost of removing horns.
Like the cow herd, the Parks family has consistently found ways to keep the ranch profitable no matter how difficult conditions or markets may seem. When he took over ranch operations, one of
Charles’ first projects was installing pipelines himself to give them better access to water across the property so they could make the most out of all the pastureland.
When asked if selection priorities have changed over time, the answer was no, not really. From the beginning when he
through harsh conditions. These are traits that will never go out of style and are essential for his operation’s challenging environment.
The Parks family ranch is an example of the kind of resourcefulness and grit that it takes to raise cattle in challenging and demanding environments. Their ability
FOR THE LONG HAUL
IStarts Small delved into what sustainability looks like for the small cow/calf operations that make up a large part of the American Gelbvieh Association (AGA) membership. Dr. Kim Stackhouse-Lawson, director of AgNext at Colorado State University, discussed how there is no single definition of sustainability, but that each operation must set their own goals that strike a balance between environmental stewardship, economic viability, and social responsibility.
That conversation helped establish an understanding of the first step: taking the time to decide what sustainability actually means within an operation. But
take to sustain that operation for the long haul?
For operations managing 50 cows or fewer, that question often extends beyond day-to-day management decisions. It becomes a conversation about longevity and about whether the ranch can remain profitable through volatile markets, withstand environmental stressors like drought, and support ranching families into the next generation. In many cases, that means building an operation capable of sustaining multiple families, while also navigating the realities of labor, resource limitations, and succession.
Dr. John Ritten, professor of agricultural economics and director of grazing lands
believes those long-term considerations are at the core of true sustainability. “You can’t be in the business of conservation if you’re not in business,” he said. “In other words, you can’t be sustainable if you’re not economically sustainable.”
Dr. Ritten echoed Dr. StackhouseLawson’s sentiments about having important conversations and establishing goals. He said, “First, a family or group of families really needs to take a step back and focus on how they define sustainability.” He encourages producers to ask themselves, “What does economic sustainability mean for us?”
For some people, the goal really is financial return and profitability. For
others, it might be protecting their land base and stewarding it into the future. He notes this doesn’t mean it’s not profitable, but it can be very different than profit maximization. Many producers may be asking themselves, “How do we support multiple families?” Finally, for many people, the goal is simply to maintain a way of life.
Oftentimes, it’s a combination of these things. No matter what the goal is, Dr. Ritten said the first core question of creating a business plan should always be the same: “How do we define success?”
No matter how an operation defines success, achieving it over time depends on how well that operation can respond to challenges outside of its control. For cow/calf producers, Ritten noted that these conversations have increasingly shifted toward resiliency.
He said, “I think specifically, for cow/calf operations there’s been more of a shift in recent years towards a focus on resiliency around drought and protecting your forage resources, as well as input cost volatility. So, I think whether you’re large or small, those are things that the broader industry is starting to care about, given specifically, the decrease in cow numbers over the last 50 years. Operations really need to but also just make sure that herd demands don’t exceed your forage supply.”
This is why Dr. Ritten believes that unlike other sectors of the beef industry, there is not as much focus on adopting some new or flashy sustainability practice, but instead on developing a solid understanding of the fit between your herd, your land, and your management system. He encourages producers to focus on how they handle stressors over time, rather than one or two specific sustainability metrics.
This is all important to understand and to have as a basis for discussing succession and resiliency long term. Ritten made an important point that sustainability is not built from separate pieces, but from how those pieces interact within an operation.
“It’s where they overlap that’s really meaningful,” he said.
For smaller operations especially, that means thinking through all available resources together. Natural resources such as land, water rights, and forage availability must be considered alongside genetic resources within the herd. While genetics are often discussed in terms of production, Ritten noted they also directly influence profitability, and that decisions made to increase production do not always translate to increased economic return.
He emphasized the importance of looking beyond revenue alone and paying closer attention to costs and long-term returns. “Economics really makes us think about both long-term and short-term tradeoffs,” he said. That includes evaluating whether investments in genetics, infrastructure, or land improvements are actually paying off over time.
Some of those investments may not show immediate returns but can strengthen an operation’s ability to withstand future stress. “Maybe those pay off in 10 or 15 or 50 years,” Ritten said, noting that these long-term decisions are closely tied to succession planning and the goal of leaving an operation more resilient for the next generation.
Rather than viewing costs strictly as something to minimize, Ritten encourages producers to think of them as investments in the future stability of the ranch. “If we reframe some of those as investments, we might make some different decisions,” he said.
Remembering that sustainability can be described as the balance of environmental, economic, and social factors, Dr. Ritten’s call for long-term resiliency planning is an important one for cow/calf producers. It is a reminder that succession planning and business planning needs to be a priority for families to work on together.
The conversation once again returns to longevity. Regardless of the size of an operation, sustainability is not just about current profitability but instead requires focus on the ranch’s ability to function and adapt over time. In order to do this, families must be conscious about natural resources, intentional about financial decisions, and resilient during challenging seasons.
It also reaffirms the importance of planning for succession today. Every decision made on a ranch from genetics to risk tolerance shapes not only current performance, but what is left for the next generation to manage. In that way, sustainability becomes less about shortterm outcomes and more about whether an operation is positioned to succeed beyond the people running it today.
Another important distinction Dr. Ritten made is that oftentimes people feel as if sustainability is someone else telling them what to do. In reality, he emphasized that it is something much more internal. This is an important set of conversations that families need to have within their own operations. Rather than following outside pressure, producers should be working to determine their own best path forward and ensure the ranch can continue for generations.
As Ritten emphasized, that process does not require constant reinvention or chasing new trends. Instead, it is built through steady improvement and clarity in decision making. “Focus on the things that you have control over and the things that you care about,” he said. “And just be a little bit better over time, as those little improvements lead to really big impacts over a longer time horizon.” F
2026 SALE PRICE ANALYSIS
by Wess Anglin
The 2026 Gelbvieh and Balancer®
National Sale set the tone for an exceptional spring sale season across the breed. The barn was filled with outstanding cattle, cattlemen, and cattlewomen eager to add fresh, performance-driven genetics to their herds. Optimism was high as producers gathered amid one of the strongest cattle markets in history, creating an atmosphere of confidence and excitement throughout the event.
Eight bulls sold in the National Sale, averaging an impressive $13,406 by the conclusion of the event. That early momentum continued throughout the spring sale season, as Gelbvieh and Balancer genetics continued to see strong demand across the country. Fueled by record cattle prices, limited cow inventories and commercial producers’ focus on profitability, the breed experienced one of the most historic and successful spring sale seasons to date.
A total of 55 sale reports were included in the 2026 American Gelbvieh Association (AGA) Spring Sale Price Analysis, representing 3,344 bulls and 728 females. Bulls averaged an impressive $9,021, while females averaged $5,689. Compared to 2025, these averages increased by $2,424 per bull and $1,477 per female, highlighting the tremendous demand for Gelbvieh and Balancer genetics throughout the spring sale season.
Breaking the female averages down further, 395 open heifers sold for an
average of $4,895, while 199 bred heifers averaged $6,488. In addition, 134 cows sold for an average of $6,844. Although complete averages were not available for all Gelbvieh and Balancerinfluenced commercial females marketed throughout the spring, strong demand and premium prices were consistently seen across the country. These results further reflect commercial producers’ confidence in the breed’s ability to deliver maternal strength, performance and long-term profitability in a historically strong cattle market.
Diving deeper into the bull data, demand remained strong across all classes of bulls, with Balancer bulls leading the way. A total of 2,142 Balancer bulls sold for an impressive average of $9,180 per head. Purebred Gelbvieh bulls followed closely behind, averaging $8,901 on 705 head, while percentage Gelbvieh and Balancer bulls averaged $8,520 across 461 head sold. The strength seen across every division highlighted commercial producers’ continued confidence in the growth, maternal value, heterosis and carcass merit offered by Gelbvieh and Balancer genetics.
• 64% of sales were Balancers, 21% purebred Gelbvieh, 15% hybrids or other breeds.
• 84% of the cattle were black with an average price advantage of $748 per head.
• 87% had Genomically Enhanced EPDs (GE-EPDs).
• $1,649 per head advantage for animals with GE-EPDs.
• Of the Top 100 high selling bulls 65% were Balancers, 26% purebred Gelbvieh, and 9% hybrids or other breeds.
• 98% of Top 100 high selling bulls had GE-EPDs.
• 87% of the Top 100 high selling bulls were black.
One of the most notable trends in the data was the significant price advantage commanded by bulls with GE-EPDs. In 2025, bulls with GE-EPDs averaged $717 more per head than bulls without them. That gap widened dramatically in 2026, with bulls carrying GE-EPDs averaging an impressive $1,649 premium over nonGE-EPD bulls.
With feeder calf prices at record highs and producers looking to make longterm genetic investments, cattlemen are placing more emphasis on EPDs than ever before. GE-EPDs provide a more accurate prediction of how a bull’s progeny are expected to perform, giving commercial producers greater confidence in their selection decisions. As profitability continues to drive purchasing decisions, buyers are clearly willing to pay a premium for bulls backed by more reliable and predictable genetic information. Below are averages comparing bulls that ranked in the top 35% of the breed for specific EPDs and
ranked bulls.
• Bulls ranking in the top 35% for Yearling Weight (YW) averaged $1,342 higher than lower ranked bulls.
• Bulls ranking in the top 35% for Maternal Profit Index (MPI) averaged $996 higher than lower ranked bulls.
• Bulls ranking in the top 35% for Feeder Profit Index™ (FPI™) averaged $753 higher than lower ranked bulls.
natural-sired bulls, which averaged $8,401 on 1,588 head sold. Embryo transfer (ET) bulls led all categories, averaging an impressive $9,887 across 350 head. These numbers clearly demonstrate the value of incorporating advanced reproductive technologies into a breeding program. The use of AI and ET allows producers to access elite genetics, accelerate genetic progress and increase the consistency and marketability of their calf crop. In today’s competitive seedstock environment, buyers are recognizing that added genetic
attractive cattle with good phenotype never go out of style and consistently command strong demand in the marketplace.
That said, today’s buyers are evaluating far more than appearance alone when determining a bull’s overall value. Many commercial bull buyers are more informed and discerning than ever before. They are looking for cattle that combine phenotype, performance, predictability and convenience traits into one package — and when they find it, they are willing to pay a premium for it. F
2026
FOUNDATION
The American Gelbvieh Foundation (AGF) plans targeted projects in three focus areas: youth development, research, and member education. These projects include the American Gelbvieh Junior Association (AGJA) scholarships and research projects such as supporting the Cow Power Female Genotyping Project,
most impactful fundraising traditions. The top ticket seller for the fundraiser will be recognized during the AGJA Junior Classic Awards Banquet. Thank you to all those who purchased tickets and supported Gelbvieh youth programs through this cherished tradition.
to investing in the future of our junior members and ensuring the continued growth of the association.
The AGJA also expanded its fundraising efforts this year through several successful initiatives. During the AGA National Gelbvieh and Balancer Sale, four AGJA The Good Life Junior Classic champion award sponsorships were
MID YEAR REPORT
programs and helping generate funds for junior activities throughout the year.
The AGJA Board of Directors also continued its commitment to leadership development by attending the Youth Beef Industry Congress (YBIC) in Tampa, Florida, in April. The conference provided junior leaders with valuable opportunities to network with peers
The 2026 AGJA The Good Life Junior Classic was hosted in Grand Island, Nebraska, and brought together Gelbvieh and Balancer youth from across the nation for a week of competition, education and leadership development. More than 190 exhibitors and 380 head of cattle participated in the event,
North Dakota. We extend a sincere thank you to Prairie Hills Gelbvieh for their continued commitment to supporting the next generation of Gelbvieh leaders and helping make the Junior Classic a memorable experience for our exhibitors.
AGA PUBLICATIONS, SOCIAL MEDIA AND ADVERTISING OPPORTUNITIES
The AGA communications department has had a very active start to 2026 working to share the Gelbvieh and Balancer story with the greater beef industry. The department has experienced many accomplishments such as Gelbvieh World becoming a profitable publication for the first time in many years. During the December 2025 AGA Board of Directors Meeting, it was voted to reduce the number of Gelbvieh World issues from nine each year to seven issues in 2026. The April and May issues were combined into an April/May issue, with the November and December issues becoming a combined November/December issue later this year. Additionally, The Profit Picture continues to see large success in reaching over 35,000 beef producers representing more than nine million head of cattle across the United States.
The Gelbvieh Genetics Guide was published for the first time in March and was created to serve as the source for
issue included 36 A.I.-permitted sires. The guide was mailed with the March issue of Gelbvieh World, is available on Gelbvieh.org, and has been made available at many industry events.
AGA social media continues to be a strong avenue for sharing the message of Gelbvieh and Balancer cattle. The AGA Facebook and Instagram pages have received over 1.2 million views, reached more than 440,000 viewers, and garnered more than 1,000 new followers. New this spring, AGA commercial marketing staff have their own Facebook pages to post in real-time regarding sales, industry events, and much more. Follow along to see the success of Gelbvieh and Balancer throughout the year.
Gelbvieh Media Productions continues to offer social media campaigns, e-blasts, and design services, to help members market their cattle. Members also have the opportunity to mail their catalog along with Gelbvieh World to reach all AGA members and more than 3,000 commercial producers.
DNA TESTING, FEMALE GENOTYPING PROJECT AND BREED IMPROVEMENT
As DNA testing adoption continues to expand, genomic testing has become the preferred choice for many breeders. The GGP-100k accounts for 78% of all parentage tests, compared to 14% for the GGP-uLD and 8% for standalone parentage testing. The 2026 AGA Sale Price Analysis shows us that animals sold with genomically enhanced EPDs averaged over $1,649 more than those without. Additionally, 85% of submitted samples are using Tissue Sampling Units (TSUs) highlighting their efficiency, convenience, and success.
Two commercial cattle testing options are also now available. Producers can choose from a parentage test focused on sire verification, or the Igenity® Beef test, which is specifically designed to provide valuable insights for commercial replacement heifers.
As always, members are encouraged to submit DNA samples early ahead of the fall and winter sale season to allow ample time for correcting pedigree
discrepancies or retesting failed samples. The AGA looks forward to supporting your DNA testing needs throughout the remainder of 2026.
The base of any breed improvement project is quality data collection. The AGA continues to put emphasis on data collection and reporting through projects such as the Cow Power Female Genotyping Project and Carcass Data Collection Project. Both projects are a collaborative effort with AGA, AGF, and Neogen.
The goal of the Cow Power Female Genotyping Project is to increase the number of genotypes and phenotypic information on females in the AGA herdbook. The project offers members who are willing to commit to testing 90% of their cow herd the opportunity to order a GGP-100k test at a discounted price. Participation in this project qualifies members for an additional rebate upon the input of both mature weights and body condition scores for those tested females. We have added genotypes on 975 females this fiscal year totaling 5,568 for the whole project.
New to the project is a recognition program for breeders who have participated in the Cow Power Female Genotyping Project, highlighting breeders who are committed to advancing the genetics of their herds and investing in the future of the Gelbvieh breed. Cow Power Certified breeders have demonstrated their dedication by genomic testing at least 90% of their breeding-age females. Breeders who take their involvement a step further earn recognition as Cow Power Elite breeders. In addition to meeting the Certified requirements, Elite breeders submit mature weights and body condition scores on their breeding-age females and genomic test a full year’s worth of replacement or yearling heifers. 2026 has added 8 Cow Power Certified breeders and 5 Cow Power Elite breeders.
EPDs related to carcass traits often maintain lower accuracies due to lack of carcass data submitted on Gelbvieh
and Balancer®-sired progeny. The focus of this project is to provide vital genetic information to re-charge the carcass database and enhance the predictability of current selection tools. We continue to accomplish this by pairing and submitting individual carcass data phenotypes with genotypes.
Three new economic indexes and four new EPDs were released in the fall of 2025: Maternal Profit Index (MPI), Feeder Profit Index™ (FPI™), Total Profit Index (TPI), Mature Weight (MW), Cow Energy Requirement-Yearly (CERY), Dry Matter Intake (DMI), and $GAIN. Each index is reported in dollars and represents the differences of sires’ progeny values when produced under a specific production scenario. Member education efforts continue explaining these indexes and EPDs, reviewing sire rankings, and reviewing the indexes annually moving forward.
MARKETING AND BREED PROMOTION
AGA staff traveled to 50 production sales through the fall of 2025 and spring of 2026. Most of the sales were held in the spring and were very well attended by generally optimistic commercial buyers who continue to show a strong demand for Gelbvieh and Balancer® genetics.
AGA staff members have attended 15 industry events in the current fiscal year. Staff had a booth at the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) Annual Convention and Tradeshow held in Nashville, Tennessee, in February. Staff have also promoted the breed at several other conventions and trade shows including the Beef Improvement Federation Annual Symposium, Kansas Livestock Association Convention, Livestock Marketing Association Convention, Range Beef Cow Symposium, Texas and Southwest Cattle Raisers Association Convention, and the Texas Tech Beef x Dairy Symposium. The AGA Marketing Team plans to attend the Texas A&M Beef Cattle Short Course this year. AGA staff will also be promoting the breed at several state and
regional field days and convention events throughout the remainder of the fiscal year.
From a marketing perspective, AGA advertises with four livestock video auction companies, and we will continue this year. Staff will be making numerous herd visits throughout the year to purebred and commercial producers.
Additionally, breeders can also encourage their commercial customers to utilize AGA marketing programs when selling calves and feeder cattle. Feeder Finder is a free advertising service, and Balancer® Edge offers value-added opportunities through our partnership with IMI Global. Please reach out to Tom or Wess for more information on our marketing programs.
The current fiscal year AGA budget includes a small increase in the marketing activities budget allowing us to increase our sponsorship and presence at industry events like the LMA Convention. The national advertising budget was steady from the previous fiscal year, and we strive to distribute our spend across most types of media to effectively utilize the funds available and extend our total reach for breed promotion.
CONCLUSION
2026 has truly been a record year for the AGA and it has no signs of slowing down. The AGA continues to celebrate the success of its members and all their strides to position Gelbvieh and Balancer genetics to be the maternal breed of choice. Data from the United States Meat Animal Research Center (USMARC), revealed Gelbvieh-influenced females are the only Bos taurus females to offer a maternal weaning weight advantage with the advantage being 22.7 pounds equating to over $100 more per calf in today’s beef market. It’s time to share the beef industry’s best kept secret and make Gelbvieh and Balancer females the foundation of the nation’s cow herd. F
Essential to the American Gelbvieh Association’s Forward Advancement Within The Beef Industry
The American Gelbvieh Association (AGA) can attribute its success, in part, to a strong and active committee structure. The 10 committees of the AGA play an important role in the development and implementation of AGA programs, services and policies, and are integral in the forward progress of the association.
The following is the list of AGA members who have been nominated to serve on committees. Committee members are appointed to serve on committees by the AGA President through expressed interest by members, staff recommendations, and AGA Board of Directors’ approval. Committee appointments are effective through April 1, 2027. Thank you in advance to these members for their service on the committees and their dedication to the AGA.
AGA committee meetings will be held during the AGA National Convention in Denver, Colorado, January 8-12, 2027, and are open for all members to attend. Additional core committee meetings are held, as needed, via Zoom throughout the year. Further information about each committee can be found within the AGA bylaws.
Active committees help play an important role in AGA’s grassroot efforts. Additionally, an American Gelbvieh Junior Association member is also a member of each committee. This further connects the two associations and fosters growth within junior association members.
AWARDS COMMITTEE
Staff Liaison: Margo McKendree, Lincoln, Neb.
Chair: Al Knapp, Basehor, Kan.
Vice Chair: Bill Wilkinson, Model, Colo.
Mark Goes, Odell, Neb.
Dave Judd, Pomona, Kan.
Lowell Rogers, Seminary, Miss.
John Shearer, Canton, Kan.
Lee Teeter, Mount Ulla, N.C.
BREED IMPROVEMENT COMMITTEE
Staff Liaison: Sarah Mumm, Lincoln, Neb.
Staff Liaison: Bob Weaber, Manhattan, Kan.
Chair: David Larson, Clearbrook, Minn.
Vice Chair: Hyatt Frobose, Greeley, Kan.
Dalton Bennett, Red House, Va.
Brad Burke, Ewing, Ky.
Kyle Cavalli, Barnard, Kan.
Jerry Grund, Sharon Springs, Kan.
Mark Hilton, West Lafayette, Ind.
Blake Hojer, Lake Preston, S.D.
Dan Larson, Clearbrook, Minn.
Dustin Rippe, Belleville, Kan.
Scott Starr, Stapleton, Neb.
Bill Tucker, Amherst, Va.
Dan Warner, Arapahoe, Neb.
Sydney Wilkinson, Model, Colo.
AGJA Rep: Isabel Lowe, Adrian, Mo.
BREED PROMOTION COMMITTEE
Staff Liaison: Wess Anglin, Lincoln, Neb.
Staff Liaison: Malerie Markley, Lincoln, Neb.
Staff Liaison: Tom Strahm, Lincoln, Neb.
Staff Liaison: Megan Underwood, Lincoln, Neb.
Chair: Sarah Heinrich, Medina, N.D.
Vice Chair: Troy Forbes, DeSmet, S.D.
Zack Butler, Milton, Tenn.
Justin Covington, Montrose, Colo.
Roger Gatz, Hiawatha, Kan.
Callahan Grund, Wamego, Kan.
Jordan Jensen, Powers Lake, N.D.
Matt Raile, Saint Francis, Kan.
Kathy Rankin, Oilmont, Mont.
John Shearer, Canton, Kan.
Brittany Spencer, Pierre, S.D.
Connie Tabor, Agra, Okla.
Justin Taubenheim, Amherst, Neb.
Jera Vehige, Billings, Mo.
Jean Williams, Orovada, Nev.
AGJA Rep: Teagan Butterfield, Atkinson, Neb.
FINANCE COMMITTEE
Staff Liaison: Harold Bertz, Lincoln, Neb.
Staff Liaison: Margo McKendreee, Lincoln, Neb.
Chair: Gregg Hartman, Pueblo, Colo.
Vice Chair: Jeff Proctor, Charolette, Tenn.
Tanner Aherin, Wichita, Kan.
John Carrel, Columbus, Mont.
Mark Covington, Montrose, Colo.
Bailey March, Sykeston, N.D.
Derek Martin, Bucklin, Kan.
AGJA Rep: Madalyn Johnson, Judsonia, Ark.
INVESTMENT COMMITTEE
AGA Executive Director: Harold Bertz, Lincoln, Neb.
AGA Treasurer: Gregg Hartman, Pueblo, Colo.
Chair: Jeff Proctor Charolette, Tenn.
Derek Martin, Bucklin, Kan.
William McIntosh, Georgetown, Ky.
Tom Vehige, Billings, Mo.
MEMBER EDUCATION COMMITTEE
Staff Liaison: Martha Moenning, Lincoln, Neb.
Staff Liaison: Shianna Ocken, Lincoln, Neb.
Staff Liaison: Wayde Pickinpaugh, Lincoln, Neb.
Chair: Greg Anderson, Marion, N.C.
Vice Chair: Justin Taubenheim, Amherst, Neb.
Amanda Altman, Worthington, Minn.
Christy Hammer, Wallace, Kan.
Kyle Helm, Holbrook, Neb.
Mark Hopfer, Days Creek, Ore.
Susan Morris, Batesville, Miss.
Brittney Spencer, Pierre, S.D.
Jordan Williams, Ewing, Ky.
Lisa Wolters, Atwood, Kan.
AGJA Rep: Justine Pope, Ravenna, Neb.
NATIONAL SALE COMMITTEE
Staff Liaison: Wess Anglin, Lincoln, Neb.
Staff Liaison: Wayde Pickinpaugh, Lincoln, Neb.
Staff Liaison: Tom Strahm, Lincoln, Neb.
Chair: Todd Bickett, Chickamauga, Ga.
Vice Chair: Dan Warner, Arapahoe, Neb.
Jacob Barwick, Orleans, Neb.
Lori Brown, Dwight, Kan.
Gregg Hartman, Pueblo, Colo.
Cody Jarvis, Phillipsburg, Kan.
Brent Overmiller, Smith Center, Kan.
Josh Phillips, Lathrop, Mo.
Matt Raile, Saint Francis, Kan.
Johnny Shearer, Canton, Kan.
Kyle Vehige, Billings, Mo.
AGJA Rep: Corbin Lowe, Winfield, Kan.
AGJA Rep: Braxton Murray, Kingfisher, Okla.
NATIONAL SHOW COMMITTEE
Staff Liaison: Martha Moenning, Lincoln, Neb.
Chair: Gregg Hartman, Pueblo, Colo.
Vice Chair: Zack Butler, Milton, Tenn.
Greg Anderson, Marion, N.C.
Jim Dobson, Kaw City, Okla.
Kevin Drager, Fort Collins, Colo.
Cody Forbes, De Smet, S.D.
Ginger Judd, Pomona, Kan.
Cheyenne McEndaffer, Sterling, Colo.
Tom Murphy, Franklin, Neb.
Matt Raile, Saint Francis, Kan.
Brad Ridinger, Deer Trail, Colo.
Tanner Taubenheim, Amherst, Neb.
Justin Teeter, Mount Ulla, N.C.
Justin Vehige, Billings, Mo.
AGJA Rep: Cody Brown, Dwight, Kan.
AGJA Rep: Lincoln Martin, Bucklin, Kan.
NOMINATING COMMITTEE
Staff Liaison: Harold Bertz, Lincoln, Neb.
Chair: Lori Maude, Hermosa, S.D.
Vice Chair: Klint Sickler, Dickinson, N.D.Leland Clark, Barnard, Kan.
Scott Starr, Stapleton, Neb.
Walter Teeter, Mount Ulla, N.C.
Staff Liaison: Shianna Bradley, Lincoln, Neb.
Staff Liaison: Camille Hennerberg, Lincoln, Neb.
Staff Liaison: Sarah Mumm, Lincoln, Neb.
Chair: Brent Overmiller, Smith Center, Kan.
Vice Chair: Jeff Loveless, Spanish Fork, Utah
Gary Carlisle, Redmond, Utah
Dennis Gustin, Mandan, N.D.
Ashley Judd, Pomona, Kan.
Lowell Rogers, Seminary, Miss.
Mark Stock, Waukon, Iowa
Vaughn Thorstenson, Selby, S.D.
L D Witt, El Dorado Springs, Mo.
AGJA Rep: Gentry Warner, Arapahoe, Neb. F
STATE ROUNDUP
ARKANSAS & IOWA BREEDERS
Martin Cattle Company
David & Rita Martin 256 Boyce Road Judsonia, AR 72081 C: 501.278.7614 www.martincattleco.com Private Treaty Sales Available Year Round
Black & Polled Private Treaty Sales Breed-leading Performance from Quality Genetics
Kevin Gunderson: Al Schulz: 402-510-8103 402-676-5292 Neola, Iowa Martens Gelbvieh
Gary Martens 2126 500th St • Walnut, IA 51577 712.764.5007 (H) • 712.249.5744 (C) martensgl@yahoo.com Annual Bull and Female Sale March 19, 2027 with the Southwest Iowa Gelbvieh Group
COLORADO BREEDERS
Gelbvieh/Balancer Bulls Sell in “Pot of Gold”
Patrick McCarty 665 Battlement Creek Trail Parachute, CO 81635 (970) 210-6093
Heather Scott (775) 790-3456
Brandon Scott (970) 589-5483
Jim Roelle 38330 CR 49 Peetz, CO 80747 (C): 970-520-1224
jr.plateau@hotmail.com www.plateaugelbvieh.com
FEATURING BLACK, POLLED GELBVIEH & BALANCER® GENETICS WITH BALANCED TRAIT SELECTION. NEXT BULL SALE FEBRUARY 25, 2027. LIVESTOCK EXCHANGE, LLC., BRUSH, CO.
“Gelbvieh since 1973” Kathleen Rankin Jim Bjorkman 1285 Nine Mile Rd. 406-937-4815 Oilmont, MT 59466 krankin@northerntel.net 406-460-0535 www.kickinghorseranch.com
Kathleen Rankin 406-937-4815 1285 Nine Mile Rd. • Oilmont, MT 59466 krankin@northerntel.net www.kickinghorseranch.com Performance cattle for the real world.
NEBRASKA BREEDERS
Cole Epley
402-621-0359 Marlin Meyer 402-879-4976
1039 Rd 4000 NelsoN Ne 68961 epleycattle@gmail.com www.gelbviehbulls.com
Rippe Gelbvieh
Duane & Brenda, Dustin & Karla Rippe 6775 ROAD D • HUBBELL, NE 68375 (H) 402-324-4176
Duane (C): 402-200-0096
Dustin (C): 316-323-4874
dustin.rippe@yahoo.com www.rippegelbvieh.com
“To produce superior Gelbvieh and Balancer® seedstock based on economically important traits, which provide more profitability for our customers, and ensure the consumer a very satisfactory eating experience.”
TEASTERN REGIONAL SHOW RESULTS
RESULTS BY MARTHA MOENNING | PHOTOS BY MOLLY SLOAN IMAGES
he 2026 American Gelbvieh Junior Association (AGJA) Gelbvieh Hits the Trail Eastern Regional Show was held on Saturday, May 15, 2026, in Chatsworth, Georgia. Exhibitors welcomed judge Breck Debman of Madison, Ga., to evaluate
GRAND CHAMPION GELBVIEH FEMALE: Champion
GRAND CHAMPION BRED AND OWNED GELBVIEH BULL: Champion Bred and Owned Senior Bull Calf, SAMG Noble 669N, Sam Gravely, Mount Juliet, Tenn., Sire: JRI Cimarron 213K65 ET
GRAND CHAMPION BALANCER FEMALE: Champion
GRAND CHAMPION BRED AND OWNED BALANCER BULL: Champion Bred and Owned Spring Yearling Bull, LRIT Hush Money N410, Lexi Rittenhouse, New Carlisle,
RESERVE CHAMPION YOUNG COW/ CALF PAIR: GHGF Monica 31M, Tillman Derossett, Glasgow, Ky., Sire: GHGF Cracker Jack G310
RESERVE GRAND CHAMPION BALANCER FEMALE: Champion Young Cow/Calf Pair, BCFG Butlers Ms Margo 549M1, Kyra Moore, Fountain Run, Ky., Sire: RAAB Johnny 91J
GELBVIEH HITS THE TRAIL
RESERVE GRAND CHAMPION BRED AND OWNED GELBVIEH FEMALE:
Champion Junior Heifer Calf, Champion Bred and Owned Junior Heifer Calf, PMTD Penelope 631P, Tillman Derossett, Glasgow, Ky., Sire: GRU Grand Plan 744G
RESERVE GRAND CHAMPION BRED AND OWNED GELBVIEH BULL:
Champion Bred and Owned Junior Bull Calf, HILK Polo 2400P, Kyra Moore, Fountain Run, Ky., Sire: FMGF Blue’s Impact 001X
GRAND CHAMPION BRED AND OWNED BALANCER FEMALE:
Champion Senior Heifer Calf, Champion Bred and Owned Senior Heifer Calf, SAMG Ms. Nightshade 652N, Sam Gravely, Mount Juliet, Tenn., Sire: Deer Valley Growth Fund
GELBVIEH FEMALES
Reserve Champion Senior Heifer Calf
BCFG Butlers Ms Nelda 149X ET
Ava Dagger, Cable, Ohio
Sire: BCFG Butlers General Lee J207 ET
Champion Winter Yearling Heifer
BCFG Butlers Ms Nadean 232N
Tanner Shoultz, Mount Juliet, Tenn.
Sire: BCFG Butlers Ramrod 207K ET
Reserve Champion Senior Female
TJB Anissa 6132E 487M ET
Ava Dagger, Cable, Ohio
Sire: HTFG Hilltops Hawkeye H064
RESERVE GRAND CHAMPION BRED AND OWNED BALANCER FEMALE:
Reserve Champion Bred and Owned
Senior Heifer Calf, SAMG Ms. Norah 669N, Sam Gravely, Mount Juliet, Tenn., Sire: Connealy Craftsman
GRAND CHAMPION BRED AND OWNED GELBVIEH FEMALE:
Champion Bred and Owned Senior Heifer Calf, TJB Anissa 386L 5121N
Olivia Maddox, Chickamauga, Ga.
Sire: GHGF Cow Town D536
BALANCER FEMALES
Reserve Champion Senior Heifer Calf
TJB Vickie Vale 292K 5104N ET
Olivia Maddox, Chickamauga, Ga.
Sire: GHGF Landon L706
Champion Intermediate Yearling Heifer
GHGF Navi 321N
Tillman Derossett, Glasgow, Ky.
Sire: GHGF Dr J J898
Champion Spring Yearling Heif er
VLK Nora N550 ET
Lexi Rittenhouse, New Carlisle, Ohio
Sire: VLK Stadium L382
Reserve Champion Spring Yearling Heifer, Champion Bred and Owned
Spring Yearling Heifer
LARA Party Girl 421N
Lara Rittenhouse, New Carlisle, Ohio
Sire: GDV T Bar S Casino 115G ET
Champion Winter Yearling Heifer
BCFG Butlers Ms Nora N134 ET
Kyra Moore, Fountain Run, Ky.
Sire: PVF Blacklist 7077
Reserve Champion Senior Yearling Heifer
TJB Anissa 965G 433M ET
Olivia Maddox, Chickamauga, Ga.
Sire: TJB Victorio 268K
TWESTERN REGIONAL SHOW RESULTS
RESULTS BY MARTHA MOENNING PHOTOS BY SHOW SHOTZ PHOTOGRAPHY AND DESIGNZ
he 2026 American Gelbvieh Junior Association (AGJA) Cowtown Western Regional Show was held May 25-26, 2026, in Abilene, Kansas. Exhibitors welcomed judge Chris Sankey of Council Grove, Kan., to evaluate 34 Gelbvieh, 41 Balancer®, and 11 market entries.
GRAND CHAMPION BRED AND OWNED BALANCER BULL:
Champion Bred and Owned Junior Yearling Bull, CBRO Nebraska 2529N Cody Brown, Dwight, Kan., Sire: XXB Nebraska 924J
GRAND CHAMPION BALANCER FEMALE: Champion Spring Yearling Heifer, MGA Cow Girl 529N, Lincoln Martin, Bucklin, Kan., Sire: MGA Rock Star 318L
RESERVE GRAND CHAMPION BRED AND OWNED BALANCER FEMALE:
Champion Bred and Owned Winter Yearling Heifer, Reserve Champion Winter Yearling Heifer, CCRK Liberty 5202N, Drew Stock, Waukon, Iowa Sire: BNWZ Specialty 1146
RESERVE GRAND CHAMPION BRED AND OWNED BALANCER BULL:
Champion Bred and Owned Senior Bull Calf, KARS SEPT Phoenix 115N Karson Brooks, Bennet, Neb., Sire: JCP Fireman 677J
RESERVE GRAND CHAMPION BALANCER FEMALE: Champion Winter Yearling Heifer, JTCW WNCC Nova 127N, Ella Hoeltzel, Olsburg, Kan., Sire: PVF Blacklist 7077
GRAND CHAMPION BRED AND OWNED GELBVIEH BULL:
Champion Bred and Owned Intermediate Yearling Bull, JNCC Pancho CTJ 5302N ET, Cameron Nowack, Bland, Mo., Sire: BNC Ascendance K318
CHAMPION YOUNG COW/CALF
PAIR: CPSX Old 24 Myrain, Allie Perry, Onaga, Kan., Sire: HTFG Hilltops Hawkeye H064
GRAND CHAMPION BRED AND OWNED BALANCER FEMALE:
Champion Bred and Owned Senior Female, Reserve Champion Senior Female, JNCC Mirabelle 456M Cameron Nowack, Bland, Mo. Sire: PVF Blacklist 7077
RESERVE GRAND CHAMPION BRED AND OWNED GELBVIEH BULL Reserve Champion Bred and Owned Intermediate Yearling Bull KKKG Triple K Neanderthal D2KN Joseph Tollett, Basehor, Kan. Sire: JRI In Demand 254F839 ET
COWTOWN
RESERVE GRAND CHAMPION BRED AND OWNED GELBVIEH FEMALE: Champion Intermediate Yearling Heifer, Champion Bred and Owned Intermediate Yearling Heifer, JNCC Ophelia CTJ 5820N ET, Cameron Nowack, Bland, Mo., Sire: BNC Ascendance K318
PEE WEE SHOWMANSHIP: Keaton Brooks, Quinton Blubaugh, Whitten Shrearer, and Wriply Shrearer
RESERVE GRAND CHAMPION GELBVIEH FEMALE: Champion Spring Yearling Heifer, BCFG
Butlers Ms Nova N207 ET Kade Mayer, Paxico, Kan. Sire: GHGF Man O’ War F825
CHAMPION YOUNG COW/CALF PAIR: JRI Ms Perfect Sense 285L410, Kaycee Brown, Dwight, Kan., Sire: JRI General Patton 213B97 ET
RESERVE GRAND CHAMPION MARKET STEER
Megan Walahoski, Overton, Neb.
GRAND CHAMPION PROSPECT STEER
Joseph Tollett, Basehor, Kan.
Champion Junior Showman; and Jace Bottger, Reserve Junior Showman
Reserve Champion Intermediate Yearling Heifer
KKKG Triple K Ms Naomi D2LN
Joseph Tollett, Basehor, Kan.
Sire: TAU Golden Boy 262L
WESTERN REGIONAL SHOW RESULTS CONTINUED...
Reserve Champion Senior Female
Johnny Pope, Ravenna, Neb. Sire: JRI Oklahoma 246C4
Champion Bred and Owned Senior
JNCC Madonna CTJ 4474M ET
Cameron Nowack, Bland, Mo.
Sire: GRU Grand Plan 744G
BALANCER FEMALES
Champion Senior Heifer Calf
SEPT Gucci Black N530
Jace Bottger, Hubbard, Neb.
Sire: PVF Blacklist 7077
Reserve Champion Senior Heifer Calf
CRLL Natasha’s Time 5850N ET
Jacie Carroll, Raymore, Mo.
Sire: STAG Good Times 201 ET
Champion Bred and Owned Senior
KBRO Ms Nova 2587N
Kaycee Brown, Dwight, Kan.
Sire: XXB Lead The Way 604L ET
Reserve Champion Bred and Owned
Senior Heifer Calf
Reserve Champion Bred and Owned
Intermediate Yearling Heifer
JKAB JETT Ms Nadia 602N
Jett Baker, Stuart, Okla.
Sire: DLW TPG Frontrunner 2510F
Reserve Champion Spring Yearling Heifer
CRLL JNCC Maxine 5346N ET
Grayson Grothe, Violet Hill, Ark.
Sire: GHGF Cow Town D536
Reserve Champion Winter Yearling Heifer
SKYA Nyx 5015N
Allissa Martin, Oregon, Ill.
Sire: GHGF Cow Town D536
Reserve Champion Bred and Owned
Winter Yearling Heifer
BUTR Gingerling 290N
Teagan Butterfield, Atkinson, Neb.
Sire: JRI Prairie Fire 634F310
Champion Senior Female
BCFG Butlers Ms Megan 503M
Allissa Martin, Oregon, Ill.
Sire: BCFG Butlers 135K
JNCC Eloise 570N
Cameron Nowack, Bland, Mo.
Sire: PVF Blacklist 7077
Champion Intermediate Yearling Heifer
JNCC Eleven 539N
Hudson Grothe, Violet Hill, Ark.
Sire: JNCC 206K
Reserve Champion Intermediate Yearling Heifer
CRLL JNCC Nacara 5143N
Cameron Nowack, Bland, Mo.
Sire: STAG Good Times 201 ET
Champion Bred and Owned
Intermediate Yearling Heifer
JKAB JETT Ms Nola N814
Jett Baker, Stuart, Okla.
Sire: BCFG Butlers Bismarck 512Z
Reserve Champion Bred and Owned
Intermediate Yearling Heifer
KMAX Cherry 1N
Kole Maxwell, Larned, Kan.
Sire: New Haven Resilient K135
Reserve Champion Spring Yearling Heifer
LVL Bonnie Bell N30 ET
Tobby Voss, Bruning, Neb.
Sire: Collison Alpha 028
Champion Bred and Owned Spring Yearling Heifer
SBKS Kings Encounter 329N
Saige Blubaugh, Burrton, Kan.
Sire: GRU Kingpin 716K
Reserve Champion Bred and Owned Spring Yearling Heifer
AERC Kings Galena 110N
Paxton Blubaugh, Burrton, Kan.
Sire: GRU Kingpin 716K
Champion Senior Female
SEPT Rumor Has It M423
Genevieve Kramer, Hubbard, Neb.
Sire: KARR Rumfelt’s Prime Time H96G
GELBVIEH BULLS
Champion Bred and Owned Senior Bull Calf
KBRO SEPT Stockyards 2585N
Kaycee Brown, Dwight, Kan.
Sire: GHGF Cow Town D536
BALANCER BULLS
Reserve Champion Bred and Owned
Senior Bull Calf
LLLI 3L Montego 14N18
Isabel Lowe, Adrian, Mo.
Sire: JLEA Tops Down 914G
Champion Bred and Owned
Intermediate Yearling Bull
CRLL JNCC Firewalker 5052N ET
Jacie Carroll, Raymore, Mo.
Sire: JRI Prairie Fire 634F310
Reserve Champion Bred and Owned
Junior Yearling Bull
GWTB Mr Bases Loaded 131N
Grayson Turnmire, Excello, Mo.
Sire: BWA K03 Home Run
Call
for
NBoard Nominations
ominations are now open for the American Gelbvieh Association (AGA) board of directors. AGA members that are elected to the AGA board of directors are required to attend three board meetings, AGA National Convention, and conference calls throughout the year.
The AGA board of directors is the governing body of the association and has the distinct honor and responsibility of making decisions designed for the
betterment of the entire Gelbvieh and Balancer® breed and stakeholder success in each sector of the beef industry. Having committed members on the board is a critical component of a strong association.
Any interested AGA member who would like to run for the AGA board of directors or has any questions regarding board member responsibilities should contact Lori Maude, AGA immediate past president and this year’s nominating
committee chair. Lori’s contact information can be found below.
This year’s board election will take place during the AGA Annual Meeting to be held at the 56th Annual AGA National Convention on January 9, 2027, in Denver, Colorado. While nominations will be accepted from the floor during the annual meeting, it is recommended that interested members contact the nominating committee prior to convention. F
Chair Lori Maude lori.maude@gmail.com 303-809-3789
Vice Chair Klint Sickler klintsickler@hotmail.com 701-260-1853
Leland Clark postrock@twinvalley.net 785-392-0888
Scott Starr cedartopranch@yahoo.com 308-530-3900
Walter Teeter walter@republicrefrigeration.com 704-236-7980
Meeting Highlights AGA Board of Directors
The American Gelbvieh Association (AGA) board of directors met March 26-27, 2026, in Lincoln, Nebraska. The following are highlights of the meeting and action points approved by the board:
FINANCIALS
Year-to-date financials ending February 2026 were reviewed and approved. The AGA is in good financial standing with Gelbvieh World showing a profit for the first time in several years.
COMMITTEES
The 2026 committee roster was reviewed and approved.
MARKETING TEAM REPORT
Tom Strahm and Wess Anglin reported on spring sales, industry events, and producer and feedlot visits. The American Gelbvieh Foundation (AGF) Scale and Rail Contest and Steer Challenge was discussed, and 116 steers
were delivered to Kinsley Feeders in December.
COMMUNICATIONS
Megan Underwood reported on Gelbvieh Media Productions, GRAP funding and AGA website rebuild options. The board voted to rebuild the AGA website with a goal of it being up by October 2026.
DNA TESTING
Wayde Pickinpaugh reported that all testing numbers are up and BCHF results have been added to the registry. The sample storage survey results were discussed. The most popular response was to keep samples for six years. The board moved to add a $2 per animal charge for DNA requests placed by staff to the animal fee schedule.
HERDBOOK UPDATE
Shianna Ocken reported that herd assessments increased in 2025, with over 26,000 cows on inventory. Feet and leg scores are now live in the registry and can be added by members.
BREED IMPROVEMENT
Dr. Bob Weaber gave a report on several updated EPDs at International Genetic Solutions (IGS) including Mature Weight and Docility. The current Heifer Pregnancy EPD, calculated at Colorado State University, was discussed in relation to the newly released Heifer Pregnancy EPD at IGS. The board voted to have the Breed Improvement Committee and Dr. Weaber address what the current Calving Ease threshold is for heifers. Correlations between BCHF and PAP scores was discussed. Work is underway to add the option for recording PAP scores in the registry.
AGJA UPDATE
Martha Moenning reported that the heifer raffle was very successful raising over $33,000. The American Gelbvieh Junior Association (AGJA) board will be attending YBIC this spring in Florida. Regional Show and Junior Classic preparations were discussed. F
SALE REPORTS
DAVIDSON GELBVIEH AND LONESOME DOVE RANCH 37TH
ANNUAL BULL SALE
Submitted by Tara Davidson; Photos right
On Friday, March 6, 2026, a large crowd of customers, friends, and neighbors gathered for the Davidson Gelbvieh and Lonesome Dove Ranch 37th Annual Bull Sale on the ranch southwest of Ponteix, Saskatchewan. The dynamic cattle market created optimism and enthusiasm in the sale barn, and bidding was lively in the stands and online. Several new customers travelled in to attend the sale, joining a dedicated group of long-time repeat buyers and valued local clients.
High sellers included DVE Davidson Royce 147N; DRT Lonesome Minecraft 374N; DVE Davidson Hollywood 68N; and DRT Lonesome Homestead 395N. These bulls found new homes at breeders located in Kansas, Mexico, Alberta, and North Dakota, respectively.
Many bulls were sold locally, as well as into five Canadian provinces, six American states, and two Mexican regions.
102 Purebred Yearling Gelbvieh Bulls sold for an average of $10,792.
GRUND BEEF GENETICS BULL SALE
Submitted by Callahan Grund
A beautiful late-winter day set the stage for the Grund Beef Genetics Annual Bull Sale held Wednesday, February 25, 2026. Cattlemen from across the region gathered to evaluate a powerful and functional set of Balancer®, Sim-Angus, and Red Angus bulls. Strong demand by commercial cattlemen for sires with calving ease, performance, and end-product merit throughout the offering resulted in a highly successful sale!
The offering featured a deep set of Balancer genetics along with select Sim-Angus and Red Angus bulls. Genetics sired by GRU Layal 1023L were particularly well received by the crowd and ultimately topped the sire group averages, highlighting the growing influence of the young sire within the Grund Beef Genetics program.
Selling the sale was auctioneer Colonel Garren Walrod.
The sale averaged:
SALE REPORTS
• $12,144 on 73 Gelbvieh and Balancer bulls
• $11,045 on 11 Red Angus Bulls
• $9,821 on 14 Sim-Angus bulls
High Selling Lots
Lot 2, GRU Noah 3301N - $51,000
A 50% Balancer bull sired by BCC Rapport selling to Rippe Gelbvieh, Nebraska.
Lot 1, GRU Nightman 815N - $31,000
A 50% Balancer bull sired by GRU Layal 1023L, which sold to Black Gold Genetics, Colorado.
Lot 3, GRU Next Step 216N - $29,000
A 50% Balancer bull sired by Sitz Eternity, selling to Warner Beef Genetics, Nebraska.
Lot 4, GRU Nemaha 437N - $20,000
Another 50% Balancer bull sired by GRU Layal 1023l, sold to Burgess Land and Cattle and Redwood Cattle Company, Kansas.
Lot 79, GRU Layal 333N - $11,500
A 50% Balancer bull sired by GRU Layal 1023L, selling to Bar T Bar Ranch, Arizona.
Grund Beef Genetics would like to extend a sincere thank you to all bidders, buyers, and supporters who helped make the sale a success. The continued interest in the program reflects the industry’s demand for balanced cattle that combine phenotype, performance and end-product merit!
JUDD RANCH BULL SALE
Submitted by Roger Gatz
The Judd Ranch Bull Sale was held on March 7, 2026, at the ranch in Pomona, Kansas. There were 355 registered bulls with 280 bulls averaging $11,841 selling into 23 states and Canada. Sale averages are listed below.
91 Fall Yearling Black Polled Balancer Bulls - $13,192
20 Fall Yearling Red Polled Balancer Bulls - $11,875
40 Fall Yearling Black Polled Gelbvieh Bulls - $11,487
35 Fall Yearling Red Polled Gelbvieh Bulls - $11,114
72 Spring Yearling Black Polled Balancer Bulls - $11,469
8 Spring Yearling Red Polled Balancer Bulls - $9,250
9 Spring Yearling Black Polled Gelbvieh Bulls - $9,444
5 Spring Yearling Red Polled Gelbvieh Bulls - $8,850
4 1A Red Angus Bulls- $9,813
MIDWEST BEEF CATTLE CONSULTANTS SALE
Submitted by W. Mark Hilton
The team from Midwest Beef Cattle Consultants had a very successful 23rd Annual Spring Sale on March 14, 2026. 39 bulls sold for an average of $6,778, 18 registered and commercial Balancer®-bred females, and pairs averaged $5,025, and 6 open spring registered Balancer heifers averaged $3,575.
MBCC Tahoe Cornerstone 44N sold for $12,100 for full possession and 50% semen interest, and went to Brian Dunn,
JRI Bank of America 254M27
JRI Patton’s Payday 68M388 ET
SALE REPORTS
Sandy Knoll Farm, St. John, Kansas. This 50% Balancer bull from Midwest Beef Cattle Consultants/Mark Hilton is sired by Tehama Tahoe B767 and out of a purebred Gelbvieh cow. He boasts top 35% or better for CED and all economic indexes, top 2% WW and 1% YW EPDs in a frame score 5.2 package.
RIED Authentic 25N from Riedie Cattle Farms sold for $10,500 and was selected by repeat buyer, Chell Propp, DVM, Adair, Oklahoma. This 62% Balancer son of ABCS Authentic 018K is a calving-ease bull with top 15 % CED and all economic indexes at or above the top 25%.
MSCM Leen Husker 33N from M5 Ag/Chris & Jordan Muegge sold to Propp at $7,900. This 63% Balancer son of RIED Husker 36L records top 20% or better CED, STAY, marbling and all 3 economic indexes.
In the purebred Gelbvieh offering, two ET full brothers topped the sale. MBCC Jubal Foundation Red 51N ET was selected by longtime customer Larry Thomas of Paoli, Indiana, at $7,200. MBCC Jubal Keystone 50N ET went to repeat buyer Scott Dietrich, Greenville, Indiana, at $7,000 for full possession and 50% semen interest. These red, purebred bulls are out of Plainsman Jubal 1104J and KHR 812F. MBCC 51N ET is in the top 10% for WW and YW, 1% STAY, and 30% or better for all economic indexes. MBCC 50N is a calving ease bull and the only red, purebred bull in the breed to have top 15% CED, 1% STAY, 5% marbling, and all economic indexes at top 10% or better.
In the composite bull offering, Blue Ridge Farms/Tom & Janice Brooks had the top two sellers. BRCC Koufax Talon 62N sold to repeat customers, Luanne and Dr. Paul Stahly, Marysville, Indiana at $9,500. This Simmental-Angus-Gelbvieh composite out of JC Mr Talon 403G, and a Stock Options daughter has top 3% WW and 20% YW with all economic indexes at 30% or better.
BRCC Drysdale’s Boy 76N sold for $8,400 to repeat buyer, David Ebinger, Holton, Indiana. This Gelbvieh-AngusSimmental composite is a high-growth bull with top 10 % WW and YW EPDs.
MUEG Capital Honor 40N from M5 Family Farms/Bruce and Linda Muegge sold for $10,100 and will join two other MBCC bulls at Jeff Ryan’s farm at Harrison, Arkansas, where Jeff and his family run Bear Creek Meats and More, their direct-toconsumer beef business. This calving ease SimAngus bull is sired by Leachman Just Right S418J and has top 15% CED, 20% STAY, and 25% API.
In the female sale, 3-in-1 package WRTH Donna 303 from Wirth Farms, topped the sale at $7,500 to Dietrich. This firstcalf SimAngus heifer had a fall-born bull calf at side and was bred back via AI.
Kuhn Genetics, Shelbyville, Indiana, selected MBCC Tara 25K and her bull calf by BTBR Krater 2305 ET at $5600. This daughter of MBCC Reward 4F is in the top 4% CED, 3% STAY, 10% MARB, and 2% MPI.
First-time buyer, Hayden Wessel, age 8, Batesville, Indiana, came to the sale with his father and kept bidding so he could own MUEG 34L and her heifer calf at side, sired by MSCM Tahoe E118 “52K”. 34L is a Saguaro 8111F ET daughter with top 20% YW and marbling to add to their family’s direct-toconsumer beef business. This pair is the start of Hayden’s herd, and we were thrilled that he selected us for this honor.
In the open female sale, Blue Ridge Farms consigned six registered Balancer females, which were well received. The top price was $4,100, and the buyer was longtime customer Jim Nagle, Rensselaer, Indiana.
We also auctioned off the original artwork that graced our catalog cover, drawn by our grandson, Dale Hilton, age 10. The framed, color pencil drawing was purchased by Rob Jackman, DVM/Jackman’s Animal Clinic, Milroy, Indiana, for $1,000, with the proceeds going to support the Conductive Learning Center of North America, where our grandson Auggie Hilton (Dale’s cousin) attends.
Volume buyers were Ebinger, four bulls; Jim and Tammi Gasper, Saranac, Michigan, four bulls; Nagle, four females; John and Marti Garrett, Louisburg, North Carolina, four females. F
EVENTS OF INTEREST
OCTOBER 2026
OCT. 1 Canadian Western Agribition Entry Deadline, Regina, Saskatchewan.
OCT. 10 Judd Ranch 36th Annual Cow Power Female Sale, Pomona, Kan.
OCT. 17 Seedstock Plus Fall Bull & Female Sale, Carthage, Mo.
OCT. 23 T Bar S Focused on the Future Bull Sale, Billings, Mo.
OCT. 29 Gelbvieh-Cross Calf Sale Heartland Livestock Swift Current, Saskatchewan
OCT. 30 Gelbvieh-Cross Calf Sale, Medicine Hat Feeding Company, Medicine Hat, Alberta
NOVEMBER 2026
NOV. 3 TKW Gelbvieh & Sunset Ridge Farms Gelbvieh & Balancer Bull & Female Sale, Farmington, Mo.
NOV. 5-8 Farmfair InternationalNational Gelbvieh Show, Edmonton, Alberta
NOV. 7 Seedstock Plus Red Reward Fall Edition Bull & Female Sale, Osceola, Mo.
NOV. 7 TJB Gelbvieh Annual Bull Sale, Chickamauga, Ga.
NOV. 13 Coles Bend Cattle 1st Annual Production Sale, Smith’s Grove, Ky.
NOV. 14 Davidson Gelbvieh & Lonesome Dove Ranch Select Heifer Sale, on the Ranch, Ponteix, Saskatchewan
NOV. 23-28 Canadian Western Agribition, Gelbvieh Show, Regina, Saskatchewan
NOV. 28 Boys from the South Bull Sale, Lebanon, Tenn.
DECEMBER 2026
DEC. 4 Knoll Crest Farm Total Performance Bull Sale, Red House, Va.
DEC. 15
Warner Beef Genetics Genetic Opportunities Female Sale, Arapahoe, Neb.
DEC. 19 13th Annual CJ&L Livestock Bull Sale, Hermosa, S.D.
JANUARY 2027
JAN. 13
Warner Beef Genetics Maternal Merit in the Yards Sale, Denver, Colo.
FEBRUARY 2027
FEB. 4 Black Hills Stock Show Gelbvieh & Balancer Show/Sale, Rapid City, S.D.
FEB. 13 J & K Gelbvieh 18th Annual Genetic Power Sale, Springfield, Mo.
FEB. 13 Prairie Hills Gelbvieh Annual Bull Sale, Gladstone, N.D.
FEB. 18 Gustin’s Diamond D Gelbvieh Annual Production Sale, Medina, N.D.
FEB. 19 Lazy TV Ranch 46th Annual Production Sale, Selby, N.D.
FEB. 25 Plateau Gelbvieh Bull Sale, Brush, Colo.
FEB. 26 35th Annual Pot of Gold Bull Sale, Montrose, Colo.
FEB. 27 Larson’s Lost River Livestock 17th Annual Production Sale, Clearbrook, Minn.
FEB. 27 Post Rock Cattle Company Cowman’s Kind Bull and Female Sale, Barnard, Kan.
FEB. 27 Seedstock Plus North Missouri Bull Sale, Kingsville, Mo.
MARCH 2027
MARCH 5 Warner Beef Genetics Genetic Investment Bull Sale, Arapahoe, Neb.
MARCH 5 Davidson Gelbvieh & Lonesome Dove Ranch 38th Annual Bull Sale, Ponteix, Saskatchewan
MARCH 6 Judd Ranch 49th Gelbvieh, Balancer and Red Angus Bull Sale, Pomona, Kan.
MARCH 8 Seedstock Plus Arkansas Bull Sale, Hope, Ark.
MARCH 9 Bar Arrow Cattle Co. 37th Annual Production Sale, Phillipsburg, Kan.
MARCH 13 Seedstock Plus Red Reward Bull & Female Sale, Osceola, Mo.
MARCH 19 Southwest Iowa Bull & Female Sale, Creston, Iowa
MARCH 27 Seedstock Plus South Missouri Bull & Female Sale, Carthage, Mo.
APRIL 2027
APRIL 10 Knoll Crest Farm Spring Bull & Female Sale, Red House, Va.
Visit the online version of Upcoming Events at Gelbvieh.org for additional dates of upcoming sales and more information on each event.
Editor’s Note:
If you have a sale or event information for this listing, please email the information to meganu@gelbvieh.org. This includes tours, expos, field days and other Gelbvieh events.
hornsandthorns@netins.net (319)
& Nancy Holste 3113 260th Street Clarinda, Iowa 51632 712-370-2088• 712-303-0263 tripleh1@unitedwb.coop
Mulroy 785-640-6401 Mayetta, KS tim@blackgoldinc.biz
John & Carla Shearer
2815 Navajo Rd. • Canton, Kan. 67428 circle_s@hometelco.net
(John Cell)
3041 E. Hwy. 284, Barnard, KS 67418
Bill Clark: 785.792.6244
Leland
Leland Clark: 785.792.6208
Fax: 785.792.6250
Kyle Cavalli: 785-531-1947
Email: prcc@twinvalley.net
BREEDERS CORNER
“Gelbvieh since 1973”
Kathleen Rankin Jim Bjorkman 1285 Nine Mile Rd. 406-937-4815 Oilmont, MT 59466 krankin@northerntel.net 406-460-0535 www.kickinghorseranch.com
NEBRASKA
www.88ranch.com • 402-655-2288
OKLAHOMA
VIRGINIA
ADVERTISING INDEX
3 G Ranch 50
AGA National Convention 24
Bar Arrow Cattle Co. ......................... 20, 50
Bar JR Gelbvieh 36, 52
Bar T Bar Ranches 50
Boehler Gelbvieh 52
Bow K Ranch.............................................. 50
Bull Barn Genetics 4, 54
Bull Creek Gelbvieh 53
C-Cross Cattle Company 52
C.H. Morris & Sons, LLC. ........................ 53
Canadian Gelbvieh Association 54
Cattlemen’s Connection 5
Cave Creek Cattle 53
Cedar Top Ranch ..................................... BC
Chimney Butte Ranch ............................... 52
Circle S Ranch 51
CJ&L Livestock 44, 53
CK Cattle Co. ............................................. 52
Clinch Mountain Gelbvieh ....................... 53
Coles Bend Cattle Company 28-29
Cow Power Female Genotyping Project 25
Cranview Gelbvieh .................................... 52
Dan McCarty, Auctioneer ........................ 54
Danell Diamond Six Ranch 52
Diamond L Farms 53
Doak Lambert, Auctioneer 54
Flying H Genetics ...................................... 52
Gale Rippey Farms 54
Grand Valley Gelbvieh/Balancer 36
Green Hills Gelbvieh 52
GS Ridge Top Ranch 36
Gustin’s Diamond D Gelbvieh 11, 53
Hilltop Farms ............................................. 51
Hodges Ranch 50
Hojer Ranch 36, 53
Ivers Cattle Company 51
J & K Gelbvieh .................................... 37, 50
Judd Ranch 1
Kicking Horse Ranch 36, 45, 51
Knoll Crest Farm 53
Koehn Cattle Co. ....................................... 53
Larson’s Lost River Livestock ............ 51, 56
Lazy TV Ranch
