The Virginia Cattleman - December 2016

The Virginia Cattleman

Volume 38 Number 12

Photo Taken by: Jennifer Matney At Matney Angus Farm in Cedar Bluff, VA

Circulation 8,000

The Virginia Cattleman P.O. Box 9 Daleville, VA 24083-0009

December 2016

Non-Profit Organization U.S. Postage PAID Daleville, VA 24083 Permit No. 8

PAGE 2, DECEMBER 2016, THE VIRGINIA CATTLEMAN

Opportunities

By: Jason Carter

The coming of the Christmas holiday is always a much anticipated time of year across the country and probably more so this year compared to recent memory as relief from the awful Presidential race that mercifully ended in November.

It doesn’t take a great deal of investigative ingenuity to figure out that cattle producers and our policy at VCA tend to lean more conservative. Values are unfortunately more difficult to define in our world today because of the constant tug of war over expecting political correctness without limitation on the individual right to free speech. Expecting to say whatever we please but to be justifiably offended whenever we encounter differences of opinion is epidemic and fostering greater intolerance.

Intolerance narrows perspective, which inhibits solutions which ultimately grows the expectations for entitlements and the want to be taken care of. The next six months will be both interesting and pivotal in our country – but enough politics and back to values.

However we celebrate Christmas let us not forget that our ability to love and the blessings we have are wholly a result of how we were loved first. I’ve always appreciated

Virginia Cattlemen’s Association Producer Meetings

Save the Date for Economic Outlook Discussions – January 2017

Page 5 - Veterinary Feed Directive (VFD) Begins January 1, 2017 12

Page 13

-

who read this and thank you from the Virginia Cattlemen’s Association for the work that you do and the contributions you make to this great cattle business of ours.

Real values and traditions are the underlying theme behind Christmas. Celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ by sharing our time, our fortunes and our talents with people we care about Virginia Cattlemen’s Association and Virginia Cooperative Extension are pleased to sponsor meetings for and people cattle producers to hear a discussion of the economic situation in the beef cattle industry, in need are values and supply/demand influencers and price outlook for 2017. traditions that make Dr. Ron Plain, Professor Emeritus of Agricultural Economics with this season the University of Missouri, is a nationally and internationally special. We sometimes renowned speaker and livestock marketing expert. He has long struggle to been a resource of the food animal industry and USDA for maintain that outlook all economic outlook, marketing strategy and demand influencer the yearlong planning. but we tend to gravitate that way this January 23, 2017 in Barboursville, VA time of year.

Each of us January 24, 2017 in Abingdon, VA have unique “family” type January 25, 2017 in Appomattox, VA traditions as well to supplement All meetings are free to attend and include supper – details to the season of come for RSVP, times and specific locations. thankfulness and giving.

WHAT’S INSIDE

Page

how the Charlie Brown Christmas Special reminded us how something ordinary can be beautiful and the birth of Christ is the reason for the season. Merry Christmas to all

Feeding Newly Calves.

Weaned

- VFD What Producers Need To Know.

Page 15 - Clean Water Is Crucial For Cattle In Winter Months Page 16 - World Beef Markets, Expected to Grow in 2017.

VIRGINIA CATTLEMEN'S ASSOCIATION Sponsored Graded Sales Schedule Check our Website at www.vacattlemen.org for updates CONTACT LIVESTOCK MARKETS OR VCA STAFF FOR QUESTIONS VCA 540-­‐992-­‐1009 BUTCH FOSTER 423-­‐360-­‐0434 TROY LAWSON 540-­‐430-­‐0042 DECEMBER 2016 Radiant 12/6/16 10:30 AM FEEDERS Virginia Cattle Company 540-­‐622-­‐4889 Front Royal 12/6/16 7:30 PM FEEDERS Virginia Livestock LLC 540-­‐622-­‐7752 Harrisonburg 12/8/16 7:00 PM FEEDERS Rockingham Livestock Sales 540-­‐490-­‐9050 Tel-­‐O-­‐Auction 12/12/16 6:00 PM FEEDERS Virginia Cattlemen's Association 540-­‐992-­‐1009 Radiant 12/13/16 10:30 AM FEEDERS Virginia Cattle Company 540-­‐622-­‐4889

THE VIRGINIA CATTLEMAN, DECEMBER 2016, PAGE 3

PAGE 4, DECEMBER 2016, THE VIRGINIA CATTLEMAN The Virginia Cattlemen’s Association Affiliated with the National Cattlemen’s Beef Assoc.

P.O. BOX 9 Daleville, Va 24083-0009 www.vacattlemen.org The Virginia Cattlemen Phone: 540-992-1009 Fax: 540-992-4632 jdavis@vacattlemen.org Published monthly by the Virginia Cattlemen’s Association Jason Carter……….Stuarts Draft Executive Secretary Butch Foster……….Bristol Field Manager Troy Lawson……….Churchville Field Manager FEEDER COUNCIL Glenn Wheeler……….Atkins Region 1 Chuck Miller……….Crockett Region 2 Joe Meek……….Dublin Region 3 Forrest Ashby……….Staunton Region 4 Rick Matthews……….Browntown Region 5 Steve Hopkins……….Lousia Region 6 Tom Nixon……….Rapidan Region 6 Brett Stratton……….Evergreen Region 7 Andy Smith……….Rosedale Director at Large POLICY & INDUSTRY ADVOCACY BOARD Gene Copenhaver……….Meadowview District 1 Joey Davenport……….Glade Spring District 1 George Stovall……….Stuart District 2 OPEN SEAT District 2 Bill Tucker……….Amherst District 3 Jon Repair……….Glasgow District 3 Jared Burner……….Luray District 4 Allen Heishman……….Edinburg District 4 John Goodwin……….Orange District 5 James Kean……….Lousia District 5 Jay Calhoun……….Callands District 6 Mike Henry……….Chesterfield District 6 Editor……………Jason Carter jcarter@vacattlemen.org Publications Coordinator…Jacquelynn Davis jdavis@vacattlemen.org Issued the first week of every month.

Copy deadline the 15th Of previous month.

The Virginia Cattleman is sent to members of the Virginia Cattlemen’s Association. Annual dues are $50/year or Participation in the Association’s Feeder Cattle Marketing Program Complimentary copies are sent to various Supporters of the Virginia Cattle Industry.

A Member of: (LPC) Livestock Publications Council

October 28, 2016 State Graded Feeder Steers, Medium and Large 1 400-500 lbs 110.00141.00, mostly 117.50141.00, average 132.26 500-600 lbs 93.00-145.00, mostly 108.00-145.00, average 124.49 600-700 lbs 81.00-122.00, mostly 87.00-122.00, average 108.37 700-800 lbs 67.00-126.25, mostly 87.00-126.25, average 114.98 State Graded Feeder Heifers, Medium and Large 1 400-500 lbs 68.00122.00, mostly 94.50119.50, average 105.90 500-600 lbs 84.00116.00, average 100.28 600-700 lbs 80.00104.00, mostly 90.50104.00, average 98.43 700-800 lbs 83.00104.00, average 93.12

Steers, Medium Large 1

and 400-500 lbs 107.50134.25, mostly 112.00134.25, average 127.58 400-500 lbs 86.00131.00, mostly 116.00- 500-600 lbs 81.00130.00, average 127.72 124.00, mostly 102.00124.00, average 114.47 500-600 lbs 61.00127.50, mostly 107.50- 600-700 lbs 92.00120.00, average 114.28 120.50, mostly 104.00120.50, average 112.40 600-700 lbs 88.00120.00, mostly 94.50- 700-800 lbs 87.00111.00, average 108.76 119.00, mostly 97.00119.00, average 106.75 700-800 lbs 93.00116.50, mostly 105.50116.50, average 106.98 State Graded Feeder Heifers, Medium and Large 1 State Graded Feeder Heifers, Medium and 400-500 lbs 74.00Large 1 114.00, mostly 88.00110.00, average 99.59 400-500 lbs 82.50116.50, mostly 97.50- 500-600 lbs 76.00105.50, average 101.27 111.50, mostly 89.00104.00, average 97.43 500-600 lbs 85.00106.00, mostly 94.50- 600-700 lbs 81.00106.00, average 98.75 103.00, average 91.04

November 18, 2016 State Graded Feeder Steers, Medium and Large 1 400-500 lbs 90.00-135.00, mostly 126.50-135.00, average 128.70 500600 lbs 86.00-132.50, mostly 110.00-126.50, average 116.22 600-700 lbs 80.00-123.00, mostly 103.00-120.50, average 114.42 700-800 lbs 89.00130.00, mostly 102.00119.50, average 115.80 State Graded Feeder Heifers, Medium and Large 1 400-500 lbs 500-600 lbs 600-700 lbs 700-800 lbs

75.00-117.00, mostly 101.00-108.75, average 103.44 70.00-109.50, mostly 91.00-108.00, average 98.65 70.00119.00, mostly 94.00113.00, average 101.20 600-700 lbs 66.00-99.00, 700-800 lbs 86.00-99.00, 74.00-118.00, mostly mostly 90.00-99.00, av- average 92.68 97.00-118.00, average erage 93.78 101.97 700-800 lbs 83.00-99.50, Slaughter Cows Slaughter Cows average 92.61

Boning, 800-1200 lbs, Boning, 800-1200 lbs, average 41.00-57.50, average 40.50-65.00, 49.81 Breakers, 1200Slaughter Cows 48.03 1600 lbs, 45.00-60.50, Slaughter Cows Boning, 800-1200 lbs, Breakers, 1200-1600 average 52.63 41.00-61.00, average lbs, 44.00-66.00, average Boning, 800-1200 lbs, 50.74 54.07 40.00-67.50, average 53.15 Breakers, 1200-1600 lbs, 44.00-65.00, average Breakers, 1200-1600 55.95 lbs, 48.00-64.00, average 56.09 November 10 , 2016 November 4, 2016 State

Graded

State Graded Feeder Steers, Medium and Feeder Large 1

Merry Christmas And Happy New Year From The Virginia Cattlemen’s Association

THE VIRGINIA CATTLEMAN, DECEMBER 2016, PAGE 5

The Veterinary Feed Directive (VFD) Begins January 1, 2017!

Bruce Bowman, DVM

It has been years in the making and it is soon to become a reality. On January 1, 2017, new Food and Drug Administration (FDA) rules specify that feed and water soluble antibiotics will no longer be available for purchase ‘over-the-counter’ at feed & farm stores. In reality, use of medically important antibiotics – those used for human and animal use that are administered to animals in feed or drinking water – will now require the oversight of a licensed veterinarian. Even if the animal is not intended for food production, the sale will require a VFD (an order written by a veterinarian) or a prescription issued by a veterinarian. Whether it is pet rabbits, pigs, backyard poultry or large livestock farms, the

same restrictions will apply.

Over-the- counter injectable drugs, boluses and topicals, dewormers, coccidiostats, implants and beta-agonists will still be available as they are now. Beef producers must understand that they are not just animal producers – they are also food producers. The beef industry’s cooperation and veterinarians’ compliance are important to maintain availability of antibiotics for animal and human health when needed. There is an overriding theme that the threat of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) to both human and animal antibiotics has compelled the FDA to take action. The goal is removing uses of medically important antibiotics for production and feed efficiency purposes in animals in order to improve the drug availability for

the benefit of animal and human health and welfare resulting in enhanced food safety. The expertise of the veterinarian is critical to ensuring the responsible and judicious use of antibiotics in animals. Under the direction of a veterinarian, the responsible and appropriate administration of antibiotics (the proper medication, dosage, duration of treatment, administration route, and withdrawal time) for treatment or control of disease reduces the opportunity for AMR to develop. In signing a VFD, the veterinarian is pledging, under penalty of discipline by the state’s licensing board, that he or she has done so only under a valid “veterinarianclient-patient relationship” (VCPR). This means the vet must be licensed, familiar enough with your operation

and animals to demonstrate sufficient knowledge of the animals which allows a general medical diagnosis, assumes responsibility for medical judgements, and is available for follow-up advice as needed.

No one likes more cost, more paperwork, or more oversight by a government agency. All parties involved are working to ensure that the burden of implementing this rule is kept to a minimum. The reality is that the VFD order is simply a form completed and signed by your veterinarian. The veterinarian who signs it keeps the original and the producer and the feed distributor receive copies.

Paper and electronic creation and storage are acceptable but no ‘phone-in’ orders can be allowed by the distributor.

All parties must keep copies

of VFDs for 2 years and made available for FDA inspection when requested. The VFD provides directions to mix and feed specific antibiotics to specific groups of animals.

A new VFD will be required for each use of an antibiotic delivered as an ingredient in feed and it will expire after the amount of time specified on the order. No VFD is allowed to be written for more than 6 months and no “off- label” usage is permitted. At this point, you will not be permitted to store antibiotic premixes on your farm without a valid VFD from your veterinarian.

Feed mills are regularly inspected by FDA. Adding the inspection of VFD records will be included in these inspections.

The bulk of the early regulatory Continued on Page 6.

VA BCIA Presents the 59th Annual

CULPEPER SENIOR BULL SALE

Saturday H Noon

DECEMBER 10, 2016

Culpeper Agricultural Enterprises, Culpeper, VA

SELLING 60 BULLS

Angus, Simmental, SimAngus, and Gelbvieh.

H PERFORMANCE TESTED H BCIA BULL GUARANTEE H STRINGENT SALE QUALIFICATIONS

BCIA web site: www.bcia.apsc.vt.edu

LIVE ON THE INTERNET. LIVE AUDIO. LIVE VIDEO. BIDDING

VA BCIA Office: Dr. Scott Greiner, Educational Advisor 540-231-9159 e-mail: sgreiner@vt.edu

Test Station: Tom Nixon 540-212-1866 www.glenmaryfarmllc.com

Complimentary Lunch

Contact the Virginia BCIA Office for a catalog on this sale or our Southwest Virginia Senior & Junior Bull sale on March 25, 2017.

PAGE 6, DECEMBER 2016, THE VIRGINIA CATTLEMAN

From Page 5. Feed Directive.

effort will fall at this level and FDA has pledged to a policy of education during the transition to VFD. However, it has also announced that sometime in the future, inspections will involve not only feed mills, but could also involve veterinarians and producers. The inspector will expect to find a copy of the VFD order and the veterinarian’s medical records specific to the animals on the VFD. For producers, the inspector will expect to find his VFD copy, and will check to ensure the medication went to the right number and type of animals for the right length of time, whether feeding continued past the VFD expiration date, whether withdrawals were followed and that all the information matches approved feed labels.

FDA has heard the industry’s concern that there is a shortage of knowledgeable veterinarians in food-animal practice. The American Association of Bovine Practitioners (AABP) is on record stating that there are sufficient numbers of veterinarians available to cover any increase in demand for veterinary services.

Location of those veterinarians is the real issue – creating an even more critical need for producers to establish a VCPR as soon as possible with a veterinarian if one doesn’t already exist. This will allow you to review products that you are currently using or may anticipate using with your animal health care provider before the rule goes into effect, and opens and establishes the lines of communication.

Undoubtedly, there will be questions and areas of confusion. Changes will be challenging for everyone involved. The end result will be more responsible antibiotic use that will benefit human and animal health, that will help preserve our supply of effective antibiotics for situations of true need to protect animal and human health, and it will boost consumer confidence in the nutritious protein that farmers produce.

Bruce Bowman, DVM is a Field Veterinarian with the Office of Veterinary Services of Virginia Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services and is stationed in Harrisonburg, VA

Southwest Virginia’s Finest Angus Sale

Saturday, December 3, 2016 12 noon at Washington County Fairgrounds, Abingdon, VA

60 Registered Angus Bulls Performance-Tested 50 Lots of Registered Angus Females Cow/Calf Pairs • Bred Cows Bred Heifers • Open Heifers View our catalog @www.swvaangus.org

LIVE INTERNET BIDDING AT:

www.cowbuyer.com

SALE COORDINATOR George “Buddy” Johnstone, Jr. (276) 228-8496 or 620-4901 WYTHEVILLE, VA

SALE SPONSORED BY

Southwest Virginia Angus Association President, George Stovall (276) 692-5192

AUCTIONEER

Smith Reasor - VAAL# 2395 (276) 620-3123 RURAL RETREAT, VA

SALE DAY PHONES: (276) 620-3123 (276) 620-4901

THE VIRGINIA CATTLEMAN, DECEMBER 2016, PAGE 7

In a world full of nails, bring the hammer.

When a long list of chores stretch out in front of you, hit them head on with some big muscle.

That’s where the 6M comes in. It’s the mid-spec utility tractor built to stand toe to toe with big jobs on hardworking beef and dairy operations. No complaints, no quitting, no slowing down.

Get up to 10,696 (4850 kg) pounds of hitch lift capacity, a maximum of 30 gpm (113 lpm) of pressure and flow compensated hydraulic power that cycles heavy loads fast, and a heavy-duty, full-frame chassis designed to lift, load, and carry the toughest stuff out there.

More power.

More getting work done.

The new 6M. Available in 110 to 195 engine horsepower. With three available transmissions – including the CommandQuad™ – and the option of cab, open station, 2WD and MFWD. Talk to your dealer about getting more done … with the new 6M.

68449-9_8.125x10.875.indd

1

JohnDeere.com

11/2/16

8:11 PM

PAGE 8, DECEMBER 2016, THE VIRGINIA CATTLEMAN

Massachusetts Bans Animal Confinement On November 8th, Massachusetts voters passed a measure that

prevents farmers from confining egg-laying chickens, breeding pigs and calves raised for veal in small cages and bans the sale of food products from animals raised in such spaces. The Humane Society of the United States, Center for Food Safety and Center for Science in the Public Interest were among those who endorsed the measure, which passed by a wide margin. The law, which will take effect in 2022, will require the state attorney general to issue regulations and enforce it, including a $1,000 fine for each violation.

For Sale 20 Angus heifers to calve at 30 months from Feb.15 thru Mar.30

Moderate,easy fleshing,--bred many years for maternal efficiency $1500 firm Tim Neale (540) 672--6440.

SMITH REASOR Auctioneer

Reasor Simmentals 276-620-3123 skrlkr@embarqmail.com

Calendar of Events 12/3 SWVAA “SW VA’s Finest” Angus sale, Abingdon 12/10 Culpeper BCIA bull sale, Culpepper Selling Simmental & SimAngus Bulls.

Thanks for a Great 2016 Year!

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!!

Springwood Livestock Management Services COMPLETE ULTRASOUND SERVICES Cattle & Sheep Repro & Carcass HERD HEALTH, A.I. PROGRAMS Andrew W. Meadows, MS, DVM 1891 Rockdale Road Wytheville, VA 24382 ameadowsdvm@yahoo.com * 540-520-2609

We Feed What We Sell Economically priced and more feed value for your money.

PERFORMANCE FEEDS YOUR PROFITABLE FEED SOLUTION *16% Performance Extra *Soyhull Pellets *Corn Gluten Feed S.G. Spangler Farm Supply P.O. Box 310 Scottsville, VA 24590 434-286-3200 A.W. Tomlin 826 Possum Island Rd. Madison Heights, VA 24572 434-213-5572 Coleman Farm Supply 152 Main Street Appomattox, VA 24522 434-352-7298 West End Feeds 2065 W. Lee Hwy Wytheville, VA 24382 276-620-1821 Donald Price 1058 Turkey Island Rd. Crew, VA 23930 434-294-1772 Angell's Feed & Supply Zonne Angell Nimitz, WV 25978 304-466-3100

*14% Performance Plus *13% Feeder Blend *Bull Developer

Hominy, Cottonseed Hulls, DDG’s and other feed ingredients

Find the Dealer nearest you:

G & E Feed George Winn Grenta, Va 434-489-4458 Dodd’s Farm Supply 1103 Lynchburg Avenue Brookneal, VA 24528 434-665-7591

Moneta Farm & Home Center Crop Production Services P.O. Stuart Woodford Box 64 11739 Moneta Rd. 501 West Danville Moneta, Va 24121 South Hill, VA 23970 540-297-5558 434-447-7603 Amelia Equipment R.G. Cattle, Co. Tanyard Branch Feed Service, L.P. Stephen Hite Floyd, VA 24091 732 Hite Drive 18085 Genito Rd. Amelia, VA 540-651-8626 Nelson, VA 24580 23002 804-561-5885 Carroll County Coop. Inc. Carroll County Coop. Inc. 201 Meadow Street 505 East Stuart Drive Galax, Virginia Hillsville, VA 24343 276-236-2181 276-728-2912 Frank Walton 222 Smokey Haven Rd. Amherst, VA 24521 434-944-1830

Call toll free 888/777-5912 Family owned and operated Mark Pendleton Jason Pendleton

Hoof N Paws Feed & Farm Supply 35529 Gov. G. C. Perry Hwy North Tazewell, VA 24630 276-322-3604 S&S Feed Kenny Lambert Princeton, West Virginia 304-445-7000

Non bagged bulk feed available for delivery • MUST order a min. of 3 tons • Call for pricing and scheduling 50 Years of Protable Stocker Cattle Operation Visit www.performancefeedco.com

THE VIRGINIA CATTLEMAN, DECEMBER 2016, PAGE 9

Gordon Groover Honored With Emeritus Status Gordon Groover, associate professor of agricultural and applied economics in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at Virginia Tech, Virginia Cooperative Extension economist, and leader of its agricultural and applied economics Extension program, has been conferred the title of associate professor emeritus by the Virginia Tech Board of Visitors. The emeritus title may be conferred on retired professors, associate professors, and administrative officers who are specially recommended to the board by Virginia Tech President Tim Sands. Nominated individuals who are approved by the board receive an emeritus certificate from the university.

A member of the university community since 1979, Groover made significant contributions to Virginia through his work in farm management. His focus was economic decision making, including the development and delivery of researchbased agricultural business management programs that improved financial decisionmaking. In doing so, he improved the economic vitality of individual businesses and the Virginia agricultural sector.

Groover was a leader, coordinator, and mentor to the farm business management Extension program. He trained production agriculture and farm management Extension agents for more than 25 years, including the development and presentation of more than 40 in-service training events. He personally mentored more than 36 farm business management Extension agents who, in turn, obtained external grants in support of educational programs that have directly improved Virginia farm businesses and the lives of farm families.

He was director of the Virginia’s agricultural use value taxation program, which receives its direct support from the Virginia General Assembly.

The program provides a critical and rational economic basis for public support of Virginia farmers’ economic viability and is an integral element of local governments’ property tax system. More than 75 percent of Virginia’s counties and cities use the values estimated by this program to develop their agricultural land taxation assessments. Groover provided the leadership to establish and deliver the Computer Classroom on Wheels program that targeted early adopters of farm computer technology. Along with agents and colleagues, he taught computerized financial recordkeeping and decision analysis to 1,900 Virginia farmers. The program was entirely supported by external grants and sustained by user fees and provided a framework

for instruction of computer applications to farmers

by Extension, vocationa,l and technical centers, and community colleges across the United States and Canada.

Groover provided critical information to Extension agents, farmers, policymakers, and government personnel, a critical element to a statewide program in applied economics and management. He conducted research and developed and published more than 130 statewide crop, livestock, and vegetable enterprise budgets biennially that were used as cost-of-production estimates by agents, undergraduate and graduate students, state and federal agencies, lenders, and consultants. In 1992, he also established the Farm Business Management Update to provide agents and statewide

media with a reliable source of timely economic information affecting agriculture and rural communities.

WHY HEREFORD? Because of the Hereford-Influenced Female Advantage!

• Using Hereford bulls on Angus-based females adds approximately $514 PER COW over a 10-year period FRQFHSWLRQ UDWH DGYDQWDJH ,PSURYHG FDVK ÁRZ ,QFUHDVHG KHUG VL]H 0RUH FDOYHV WR VHOO

'HVLUDEOH GLVSRVLWLRQ ,QFUHDVHG IHUWLOLW\ ,QFUHDVHG FRZ ORQJHYLW\ * Circle A Ranch Research Project - completed in 2009

N.C. BCIP Butner Bull Test Sale 12:00 noon • December 16, 2016 • Granville County Livestock Arena • Oxford, N.C.

13 HEREFORD BULLS ON-TEST FROM THE FOLLOWING PRODUCERS: John H. Wheeler • Double J Farm LLC -- 910-489-0024 (cell) • doublejfarmllc@yahoo.com Colon Nifong • Double ‘N’ Farm -- 336-731-6730 or 336-239-5769 (cell) • DoubleNFarm@lexcominc.net Jim Love • Love Farms -- 828-295-4236 or 828-266-1438 (cell) • lovekk@appstate.edu Jim Davis • Terrace Farms -- 336-853-8019 or 336-247-1554 (cell) • jgdavis101@yahoo.com George Ward • W&A Hereford Farm -- 336-388-2177 or 434-251-3637 (cell)

PAGE 10, DECEMBER 2016, THE VIRGINIA CATTLEMAN

Voluntary Participation in Virginia’s Nutrient Management Planning Program Survey

All Virginia farmers and ag industry professionals are invited to contribute to a periodic assessment of Virginia’s nutrient management planning, now through mid-February. A collaborative team of 18 agricultural, including Virginia Cattlemen’s Association, and conservation organizations and state agencies aim to better understand nutrient management planning efforts on farms throughout Virginia. Members of the Virginia Nutrient Management Leadership Team want to learn about challenges and opportunities relating to nutrient management plan development and implementation.

Virginia farmers use and implement nutrient management plans to improve yields and reduce input costs. But there are barriers to participation in nutrient management planning, and the Team wants to find ways to make nutrient management planning more useful to farmers without additional regulations. Nutrient management plans recommend fertilizer or manure application rates designed to achieve crop production yield goals while at the same time minimizing fertilizer inputs and costs.

Farmers and ag industry professionals can share their experience, ideas and susggestions by completing the assessment online, now through mid-February 2017. Results of the assessment will be released in late Spring 2017.

The Farmer Assessment is online at: www.surveymonkey.com/r/ FarmerFeedbackVNMLT

For more information or questions about the survey and the intent of the Virginia Nutrient Management Leadership Team please contact Jason Carter at the VCA office.

Myers Hereford Farm

December 10, 2016 @ 12:00 NOON Myers Sales Barn - 449 Elmwood Road, Statesville, NC *Selling* 30 - 2 Year Old Horned Hereford Bulls 10 - Bred Hereford Heifers 20 - Yearling Hereford Heifers 60 - Yearling Black Baldie Heifers Myers Hereford Farm 321 Elmwood Rd, Statesville, NC 28625 Home - 704-872-7155 Cell - 704-450-1598

The Original Poly Hay Feeder!

Email - harrymyers1226@att.net www.myersherefordfarm.com Online Bidding Through Cattleinmotion.com

THE VIRGINIA CATTLEMAN, DECEMBER 2016, PAGE 11

Millions Each Year Are Given the Wrong Antibiotics, Study Finds Anjali Tsui Abrams, FRONTLINE

Every year, millions of Americans with common infections leave the doctor’s office with a prescription for antibiotics. Yet, only half of all patients seeking care for three of the most common medical ailments receive the right kind of drug for their condition, according to a new study from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Pew Charitable Trusts. The study showed that an alarming number of doctors around the country are failing to follow national recommendations when prescribing antibiotics for the three ailments: sinus infections, sore throats and ear infections.

The findings come less than six months after research from the CDC and Pew confirmed that one in three antibiotic prescriptions are unnecessary.

Taken together, the two studies

suggest that doctors nationwide are inadvertently contributing to the rise of potentially deadly drug-resistant “superbugs.”

These bacteria now infect roughly 2 million people per year in the United States, and cause an estimated 23,000 deaths. The challenge posed by many common antibiotics is that the more that modern medicine makes use of them, the easier it is for germs to become resistant to them.

But Monday’s findings from Pew and the CDC highlights how antibiotic resistance is not only fueled by the number of prescriptions being written by doctors, but also what kinds of medications they are prescribing.

According to the study, only 52 percent of patients were prescribed the recommended “first-line” antibiotics that target fewer types of bacteria. Others were given drugs that target a broader spectrum of bacteria and are more likely to lead

to drug resistance, according to David Hyun, an infectious diseases doctor from the Pew antibiotic resistance project and a co-author of the report.

Experts say that the proportion of Americans taking “first-line” drugs should be higher, at 80 percent — a figure that takes into account people who are allergic to certain drugs and those who fail to respond to initial treatment.

“We’re going to potentially lose the effectiveness of these lifesaving drugs and may face a situation where there’s a patient with an infection caused by a bacteria that is resistant to all the antibiotics that are currently available,” Hyun said.

The study also found that adults were much more likely than children to receive an inappropriate, broad-spectrum antibiotics for a simple infection. More than 60 percent of adults diagnosed with strep throat, for example, were prescribed an antibiotic that is

not recommended by medical guidelines. By comparison, 40 percent of children faced the same predicament. Both CDC studies relied on national data sampled from doctor’s offices, hospital outpatient facilities and emergency departments between 2010-2011.

This study did not examine why doctors are ignoring guidelines set by organizations like the Infectious Diseases Society of America and the American Academy of Pediatrics. However, Hyun said that doctors are more likely to prescribe a broad spectrum antibiotic when they are unsure what illness their patient is facing. An antibiotic that targets more types of bacteria can be perceived to be “the safer, more conservative route,” said Hyun, even though it is at odds with what is best for public health.

With global health experts warning that antibiotic-resistant infections could one day kill more people than cancer, the White House in 2015 set an ambitious goal to reduce the unnecessary use of antibiotics by half. To reach that milestone, the CDC and Pew estimate that outpatient prescriptions would need to come down by about 23 million per year between now and 2020. Prescriptions for sinus infections, ear infections and sore throats, the authors note, account for roughly 44 million prescriptions annually.

We Built Our Name On Trust

Keith Phillips

Gene Copenhaver

Senior Vice President/Ag Division Harrisonburg 540-437-0604

Everett Johnson

Wytheville 276-228-1125

Abingdon 276-623-0128

Roy Settle

Johnson City 423-282-3850

Gary Britt

David Kiracofe

Bridgewater 540-828-2020

Richmond 540-292-5943

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Harrisonburg 540-437-0604

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Lynchburg 434-455-0888

Mark Cox

Fairlawn 540-633-3793

Micah Owens

Harrisonburg 540-437-0604

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PAGE 12, DECEMBER 2016, THE VIRGINIA CATTLEMAN

Feeding Newly Weaned Calves

As spring beef calves are beginning to be weaned, it is the producer’s responsibility to help make that transition as smooth as possible. Improper weaning can result in poor growth, which may stay with the animal through its life, according to Kansas State University animal scientist Justin Waggoner. “I break down the weaning process into three stresses the calf is dealing with,” said Waggoner, a beef systems specialist with Kansas State Research & Extension.

The first and most obvious is maternal separation; the second is moving to a new environment and social structure, and the third is the need for a calf to become accustomed to new and unfamiliar feedstuffs as it is transitioned from a diet of grass and milk to a total mixed ration or starter pellet in a different environment.

Waggoner provided the following tips to help ease the transition: · Many calves are raised in a grassland environment. Getting them adjusted to a feed bunk is one of the most important things a producer can do in the weaning process.

If the calves do not eat properly, there’s an increased risk of disease. · Feeding both cows and calves a small amount of a supplement or the weaning ration out of a bunk prior to weaning when the calves are still with the cows can be a good way to acclimate the calves to those feeds. The cows may consume most of the feed, but the calves are there too, getting exposed to the bunk.

A study at the Kansas State

Agricultural Research Center in Hays, Kan., showed that when calves had exposure to a feed bunk, either through a dry lot or pasture method, a higher percentage of them approached and ate from the bunk in the critical first week of weaning compared to calves that had never been exposed to a feed bunk before, Waggoner said.

“The results tell us previous exposure to the feed bunk really matters,” he added.

“This is especially important as newly weaned calves are brought into a typical feedlot environment or even a set of pens. Just that adjustment can help in making that successful transition from being at their mother’s side to being in a different environment.”

Weanlings are often used to feedstuffs such as grass and hay, which are not rich in nutrients, so producers must find a way to balance the familiar feedstuff with new, nutrient-rich feeds.

The dry matter intake of calves is often about 1% of their bodyweight, Waggoner said.

The Hays protocol suggests that producers offer the calf 0.5% of its bodyweight of concentrate-based, 75-85% total digestible nutrients (TDN) ration while trying to limit silage and other familiar feeds.

So, the calf is offered half of its expected intake as a weaning ration or pellet and the other half as good-quality grass hay.

Also included in the process: · Positioning the feed is as important as the feed itself.

Put the hay the calves are most familiar with on top of the feed ration on the first day. · The ration should be increased to around 0.7% of bodyweight on the second day,

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but keep the hay the same. Put the hay on top of the ration. · On the third or fourth day, increase the amount of feed, but not the hay. This time, put the ration on top of the hay. · On days 7-10 of weaning, the goal is to have a calf eating 2.0-2.2% of its bodyweight — maybe even 2.5%.

Often, weanling calves are fed as much as they will eat, which can lead to problems later. “It is important to keep the calves eating, because there are many times where we create more problems for ourselves in a weaning program by getting ahead of the calves and Continued on Page 14.

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THE VIRGINIA CATTLEMAN, DECEMBER 2016, PAGE 13

By: Taylor Fix

I have recently been thinking about graduate programs. What going back to school could look like, what friends I have in various programs, and the costs associated with continuing my education. The more I’ve learned about agriculture the more I want to know. It has been this way for me since my first agriculture class in the sixth grade. What’s interesting to me is how there are individuals out there who are calling the rural community uneducated because of the recent election.

All I can say is on the contrary my friends. Rural America is made up of plenty of college educated individuals. We may not wear a fancy suit on the job every day and we may drive a pickup over a sports car, but we are very much educated nonetheless. I sit here writing

I am educated and I live in rural America this article thinking about how in the eyes of those pointing their fingers I fit into their stereotype. I grew up in a small town of less than 1,000 people, it took me at least 20 minutes to drive to high school, and cow bells ringing at graduation was common. Yet, I have a Bachelor of Science Degree in Animal and Poultry Science with double minors in agricultural and applied economics, oh, AND POLITICAL SCIENCE. While I worked my butt off for that diploma I accredit my knowledge to my way of life. I was raised in rural America and I embraced it. I’m a jack of all trades and a master at none. I learned the meaning of work ethic, responsibility, and being held accountable. I learned to work hard for the things that I want in life and that doesn’t always mean that I will always get them. I learned the value

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of respecting those around me especially my elders and those in authority. Yep, I learned all those things despite being a millennial, but that’s a story for another day. You add all of that to my college degree and I have a very well-rounded education.

It’s what I learned that a text book couldn’t teach me that has had the most impact on my life. It was the combination of FFA, 4-H, and showing livestock that I found my passion. That passion is what drives my yearning to learn more, to choose my degree path, to continue living in rural America. I am well-traveled and well educated and here I am in rural America.

Also, just because you don’t have a college education doesn’t make you less intelligent. I know plenty of people who have college degrees who don’t have enough common sense to

survive. Just as I know plenty of individuals who don’t have college educations whom I find myself in awe of their wisdom and intellect. It has been my experience watching the election unfold that people from all different walks of life could use a lesson in history and government. Here lies my question for those again who want to point fingers with an accusing tone: Do you know how to fix your car when it breaks down? Do you know how to grow your own food? Most of you will say no because you rely on numerous individuals, some of which may not have college education but technical training and skills, to survive.

What you lack in skillset you make up for by having the money to pay someone else who has those skills. You pay for the conveniences of living in a civil society. I know I

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personally wouldn’t want the job of hauling garbage around, cleaning hotel rooms or public bathrooms, and I don’t honestly desire to learn how to unclog a septic system. I do, however, respect the people who have those jobs because without them I would travel sleeping on the dirty sheets of a stranger and life would smell way worse than when farmer Joe up the road spreads fertilizer. It seems to me that respect for my fellow mankind that makes my life easier was learned by living in rural America based you who points your finger at me that seem to lack it.

I’m honestly not trying to throw anyone under the bus, there are enough people out there already to do that. I just want to stand up for the great and intelligent people I know Continued on Page 14.

PAGE 14, DECEMBER 2016, THE VIRGINIA CATTLEMAN

From Page 13. Educated American

in rural America and to make a point. Uneducated has nothing to do with where you are from or what your education level in this context. It’s the fact that we have people protesting that didn’t even vote. It is the fact that there are people in this country who voted out of emotion over facts. We live in a time where anyone could pull out their cellphone go past all the bias media accusations and get to the facts of each of our options for this election. If you have time to share meme’s on facebook or read bias news clips than you have time to read their true stances on policy. If

you failed to do your research you are the problem.

I could continue, but I will end with this: It takes all kinds of people to make this country run. We should be appreciating what each of the working folks contribute to our society whether it be educating our children, providing our homes with heat and electricity, feeding us, clothing us, or keeping us healthy. Belittling our fellow citizens and having our country divided is a slap in the face to the great peace makers who fought for our freedoms. All the hate that is being spread and unreasonable

From Page 12. - Feeding Newly Weaned Calves.

offering them too much feed,” Waggoner said. “The calves eat really strong one day, and then the next day they back off, and the intakes go up and down.”

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transition, he said. Adequately preparing them to make that transition should pay off in terms of health and the ultimate lifetime performance of that calf as it moves to the next phase of the production cycle.

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THE VIRGINIA CATTLEMAN, DECEMBER 2016, PAGE 15

Clean Water is Crucial For Cattle in Winter Months Heather Smith Thomas One of the attributes that makes cattle useful is that they can adapt and thrive in many environmental conditions and climates. No matter how welladapted, though, they need a chance to adjust to seasonal changes. As temperatures grow colder, for example, cattle grow a longer, thicker hair coat. This, and a layer of fat under the hide, provides insulation to reduce heat loss and minimize cold stress. Changing temperatures in the fall combined with shorter days and longer nights stimulate appetite, growth of winter hair and other physiological changes. As days get shorter and colder, feed intake increases, and passage of feed through the gut speeds up as cattle need more fuel to keep warm. Feed requirements may go up 10% to 25%.

These changes increase heat production and help the animal withstand winter temperatures.

To process that additional feed, the digestive tract needs adequate fluid. That’s why it is important to provide adequate water during cold weather. A cow’s water requirements are not as high in winter, however, as in summer, when she’s losing water in various ways to dissipate body heat, but she

must drink enough to handle the demands of ruminant digestion and increased metabolism to prevent dehydration and impaction.

“In winter, we often don’t think about water requirements for cattle, but the body’s demand for water is important whether it’s hot or cold,” says Terry Mader, Mader Consulting, Gretna, Neb., and professor emeritus, University of Nebraska-Lincoln. “This can be a challenge, however, when temperatures drop well below freezing, or water supplies are diminished due to lack of rainfall,” he says. “Ruminants have a large storage reservoir to draw on, but it’s not ideal to go that long without water; it’s difficult to maintain normal metabolic function if they have to continually draw on that reservoir and deplete tissue stores. continually draw on that reservoir and deplete tissue stores. Regarding diet and the amount of water in the rumen — and how much of it can be absorbed and still maintain normal function — there is still a lot we don’t know,” he says.

What we do know, however, is that water is one of the most important nutrients; animals

can’t live very long without it.

Pregnant animals need plenty of water available for the fetus,

Continued on Page 16.

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less capableof ofunderstanding understanding ourresponsibility responsibility voters. in voting public should ensure capable our asasvoters. voting public ensure World Beef Markets, Trade Expected to weGrow 2017 From Page - Weed Out Ignorant less From Page 11 11 - Weed Out Ignorant meaning Constitution OfOf course, course, we also must must that that all all races, races, creeds, genders thethe meaning of of thethe Constitution also genders PAGE 12,2016, JULY THE 2016,VIRGINIA THE VIRGINIA CATTLEMAN PAGE 12, JULY CATTLEMAN

or contours governance remember the11 ugly history of of and and sexual and thethe contours of ofgovernance the ugly history orientations and ispower projected to expand 2017 in 2016 and 2017, remember the number beef-exporting Peelsexual said total beef imports The latest global trade difference is now that meat now we have of information, you haveor countries difference is that we have power of information, youin have supercilious taxes socioeconomic than thethe supercilious poll taxesand andother otherprejudicial prejudicial people people of every every socioeconomic andtell with including Canada, Paraguay, poll country. amongof major importing estimates from U.S.no instanding unlimited access to information. to the the rest of aofthan unlimited access tothe information. noChina standing toBrazil, tell rest I Ibelieve similarlyto 1-percenters. this methods thatAmericans Americans used background similarly decrease Uruguay (steady inbelieve 2017),this the methods Despite that sharply lower U.S.used beef background countries areare expected of Agriculture’s As Department James Madison wrote, “A “A us modest how toyear-over-year live our our lives.

Don’t As James Madison wrote, us how to live lives.

Don’t1-percenters. despite the widespread failure to deny black citizens their inhibited from voting when despite the widespread failure to deny black citizens their inhibited from in the EU. In the remaining top EU and Mexico, along with imports in 2016 and additional increase year over year inwhen 2016 Foreign Agricultural Service popular Government, without vote.vote. popular Government, without of Argentina, to to teach right of our our ofpublic publicschools schoolscurrently teach equal righttoprojected tovote. vote.Any Any effort ignorant. For For the good of 10Now, beefsome consuming nations, which is equal reductions foreffort 2017, ignorant. indicated that beef production popular information, or the Now, some of you willwill accuse popular information, or the of you accusechildren Continued on Page 17. basic civics.

It’s still to improve the quality of the democratic institutions. children basic civics.

It’s still to improve the quality of the democratic institutions. beef consumption in 2017 and consumption among means of acquiring it, isit,major but me me of peddling crass elitism. means of acquiring is but of peddling crass elitism. projected to expand in a Prologue to a toisFarce or aor I say the the opposite is true. beef countries inBut a Prologue agrowing Farce a isBut I say opposite is true.

Tragedy; or,is perhaps both.”

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If you forsake the the underprivileged citizens are are any beef consumption in 2015 and candidates.

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and consumption are increasing 2016. Beef consumption in — beef production is expanding Japan, which is currently the in several major beef-producing number 11 beef-consuming countries, Oklahoma State nation, is projected to hold University Extension livestock steady in 2017. marketing specialist Derrell Peel also noted that beef exports among major exporting Peel said.

Brazil, which saw decreased countries are projected to beef production in 2015 and increase year over year in 2017.

2016, is projected to increase Sharply lower beef exports in production in 2017. Beef 2016 from Australia and New production is also expected to Zealand are projected to more increase in China, India and than offset increased exports Argentina, with the European from Brazil, India and the U.S., Union holding about steady. resulting in a slight year-overAustralia is an exception, with year decrease in total exports drought-forced liquidation from 2015 levels. Australia in 2014 and 2015 leading to and New Zealand are expected a projected 19% decrease in to see continued reductions in beef beef production in G.R. 2016 and Cyrus, Jr. exports in 2017, with growth continuing in the three continued smaller production G.R. Cyrus, Jr. Sales other largest beef-exporting inCall 2017.me for a quote onSales acountries. new orBeef used truck. exports are also In addition to the Peel on Call me forU.S., a quote a new or used truck. said beef consumption among expected to continue growing 10 exporting majorGMC beef-consuming nations in other top 434-392-4911 Davis Truck

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From Page 15. - Clean Water.

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That’s Want interval? is close to freezing, some cattlea shorter why Use youcalving need the proper balance may not drink an optimum with ablood certain sodium test level in Usepregnancy the amount,” he says. Physiological the forage.

Cattle need all of asblood early pregnancy as 28 daystest status won’t be ideal if they go these things together: feed, breeding aspost early ascan’t 28 days 24 hours without water, but salt and water.

You have post breeding they continue to function. By that balance upset too much Diagnosis will for open 48 hours, it becomes more or something suffer. cows 99.9% for open problematic,” says Mader.

DehydrationDiagnosis can isalso occur accurate “Water is also important to in cold weather,cows and cattle isas99.9% maintain good electrolyte become dehydrated accurate they are results fast balances in the body. Every losing Get key test elements: sodium, process in the body is driven potassiumbyGet and chloride.

Those email, text, fax test results fast by the ability to move nutrients electrolytes are crucial to the and dropbox by email, text, fax across cell walls. The body is body, especially at the cellular and dropbox mostly water. Good cellular level, for proper metabolic and health, gut function, nutrient biological function (such as utilization, normal metabolic carrying nutrients in and out Whitekeeping Oak Rd, New 17557nformation function 245 [and the Holland, of thePAcells), muscle function www.precisiond.com | (717)354-2178 | pdlab@precisiond.com body at proper245 temperature] all and other White Oak Rd, New Holland, PAbasic 17557physiological nformation depend on adequate supplies of functions therefore keeping www.precisiond.com | (717)354-2178 | pdlab@precisiond.com water,” Mader says. a good electrolyte balance is Adequate salt is also essential; essential year around.

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USMEF Strategic Planning Conference Focused on Future of Meat Trade

While marking the 40th anniversary of the organization’s founding, the 2016 USMEF Strategic Planning Conference in Carlsbad, California, is decidedly focused on the future. This was a key point of emphasis in the address delivered Wednesday by Philip Seng, USMEF president and CEO. “This week there will be many remembrances of what we’ve accomplished in this organization over the past 40 years, and everyone here should take great pride in that,�

Seng said. “But for most of you, it’s not the past that drove you to attend this meeting. It’s about what we’re going to do today, tomorrow and into the

From Page 16. World Beef Markets.

and 2017. The rapid growth in beef imports in China is currently the most dramatic change in global beef markets, Peel noted. China, which was not a global beef market player at all just a few years ago, has risen to become the secondlargest beef importing country in 2016, with additional growth projected in 2017. At the current pace of growth, Peel said China could surpass the U.S. as the largest beef-importing country in the next two or three years.

Beef imports in South Korea have also increased sharply in 2015 and 2016, with modest increases projected to continue in 2017. Japan is projected to continue modest year-over-year increases in beef imports in 2017. Beef imports in Russia, which has seen beef imports fall by more than half since 2013, are projected to stabilize in 2016 and 2017 at the lowest level in more than 15 years.

Beef imports in most other significant importing countries are projected to be steady to higher in 2017, including in the EU, Hong Kong, Egypt, Canada, Chile and Malaysia.

future.� Seng said that with the recent increase in pork and beef production, the U.S. meat industry faces an urgent challenge of finding new opportunities in international markets. But larger supplies

have also enhanced the competitiveness of U.S. red meat exports, which are wellpositioned for a strong finish in 2016. He noted that beef and pork exports are gaining momentum despite growing

anti-trade sentiment and a proliferation of barriers that are not conducive to trade. “Trade is no longer rising around the world,� Seng explained. “This is actually the first time since World War II

that global trade has declined during a period of economic growth. So what we are doing in the meat industry – the fact that we are increasing our exports – Continued on Page 18.

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From Page 17. USMEF (Meat Trade)

is really going against the grain because many industries are not enjoying robust growth in their export business.” Seng’s remarks were followed by a thought-provoking presentation by keynote speaker Scott Aughenbaugh, deputy director of strategic futures at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, who challenged USMEF members to look decades into the future at how their businesses must adapt as the world’s population, food demands and resources change.

“By the year 2050, the world will need 60 percent more food than we are producing in 2016,” Aughenbaugh said.

“How that food is produced – along with how and where it is traded – is something that needs to be thought about now.”

Aughenbaugh’s presentation titled “Seven Revolutions: Scanning the Horizon Out to the Year 2035 and Beyond” spotlighted several issues of particular concern to the meat industry, including: •Science versus perception: “Science and data versus perception is a huge driving issue for GMOs, even though the National Academies of Sciences has come out and said they are safe, based on the evidence that we have today and very likely the evidence we are going to have going forward.”

•What happens if we have a global slowdown? “Over the past 40 years the world has grown at a rate of about 3.8 percent, and there are expectations that we might grow at about 2.1 percent for the next 40 years, with the U.S. falling in the middle of that average.”

•How to deal with a lack of enthusiasm for trade: “What happens if we stop being interested in trade? We need TPP (the Trans-Pacific Partnership), TTIP (the EUU.S. Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership) and probably a few other trade agreements that would be out there over this time period.”

•Investing in cold chain infrastructure, especially in emerging markets: “You have to focus more efforts on cold chain storage and infrastructure, which is not being talked about enough in the United States.

It’s going to be a huge issue in getting your product to market going forward.”

•Urbanization: Aughenbaugh noted that the number of “megacities” with 10 million or more people will nearly double by 2035. The good news is that many are located on coasts, which will make exporting product to them easier. The bad

news is that many will not have the necessary infrastructure in place to handle trade.

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8FT Concrete Feed Bunks J and U Bunks are $160-170 Calf Bunks $110 Water Troughs $175 - $250 276-620-1821 All Prices FOB Wytheville, VA, Subject to change.

Lease a Roseda Black Angus bull and become a partner in an innovative branded beef program.Roseda Farm will purchase your Roseda sired calves at competitive prices plus a premium based on your level of management and record keeping. Bulls start at $2500 with bull leases at $1500/season. For information contact: Dean Bryant Roseda Farm 410-472-2697 www.roseda.com roseda@roseda.com

A DIRT ROAD DIARY Merry Christmas (Where ever you are)

By Steve Lucas

Up there in the Black Hills it’s snowin’ really hard Creatin’ a picture just like a cowboy Christmas card With drifts and ice and cowboys, bundled for the frost If they were on the gulf coast, they’d sure be lost Cause there’s cowboys down in Florida who have never seen a flake They don’t get up Christmas

lies for their traditional Christmas Day

THE VIRGINIA CATTLEMAN, DECEMBER 2016, PAGE 19

McDonald Farms Blacksburg, VA

FOR SALE

Opening presents, eating breakfast, it’s just the way We’ve done and always will do it, like them shepherds Christmas morn Went back and took care of those sheep the after seein’ Christ was born A white Christmas is not reality for most folks near and far But I’m wishin’ you a merry one where ever in this world you are

15 - 20+ Month Old Bulls 10 - Spring Calving Bred Heifers 10 - Spring Calving Bred Cows For More Information

Contact Bill McDonald 540-552-2520 or 540-230-6225 www.mcdonaldfarms.com 2070 Walnut Springs Road, Blacksburg, VA morning to have to go and break Ice on the water troughs, and for folks south of the equator Christmas comes in summer time; I guess they get up later And have to plan their weeks, and especially Christmas Day Around when to cut, and rake and bale, instead of feeding hay.

From the outback of Australia, to the frozen Siberian plain Christmas days are different, but they’re really still the same, For folks in the livestock business, be it horse, cow, or yak Go out first and check the stock, and then they can go back And join with friends and fami-

Double J Livestock LLC WEEKLY BUYING STATION

4176 Silling Rd., Dayton,VA 7145 Polly Pitcher Hwy, Greencastle, PA

540-879-BULL (2855)

Direct Agents for Slaughter&FeederCattleSales NEED GRAZING CATTLE? We purchase & sell “Farm Fresh” calves to meet your needs.

JBS FED Cattle Buying Station

Grade and Yield Your Fed Cattle HERE. MikeAllen•540-476-4680-LoadLots JamesHousden • 540-476-0269• Feeder/Fats Barry Wilkins, Jr.• 540-607-6032 • Feeder/Fats

VIRGINIA CATTLE COMPANY RADIANT, VA 540-672-1760 GRADED FEEDER CATTLE SALE EVERY TUESDAY 10:30 A.M. TEL-O-AUCTIONHOOK-UPAVAILABLE

BOARD CATTLE AND PRIVATE TREATY SALES ALSO AVAILABLE GARY VANCE 540-622-4889

PAGE 20, DECEMBER 2016, THE VIRGINIA CATTLEMAN

For More Information Contact Your Local Representative.

Charlie Drumheller c.drumheller@meat-pro.com 540-337-6768

ROANOKE-HOLLINS STOCKYARD HOLLINS, VIRGINIA

Sales Every Monday 2:00 P.M.

Quality FeederCattle Graded Steers,Bulls and Heifers Weekly Chris Theimer, Manager

540-992-1112

Steve Mallory stevem@ridgeviewnh.com malloryfarms@vabb.com 540-222-4012

THE VIRGINIA CATTLEMAN, DECEMBER 2016, PAGE 21

VIRGINIA ANGUS ASSOCIATION

Virginia Angus Breeders Page AREHART ANGUS 2016-2017 Calendar of Events

December 2

Knoll Crest Farm Fall Bull Sale, Red House, VA

December 3

Southwest Virginia’s Finest Angus Sale, Abington, VA

December 10

BCIA Culpeper Sr. Performance Tested Bull Sale, Culpeper, VA

www.millergustinangus.com

2017 Jan. 11-15

National Western Stock Show

February 4 FA M & O ILY PE OW RA NE TE D D

E OM LC IT E W IS WE UR V YO

HILL CREST FARM The John Rucker Family 2394 Deleplane Grade Rd. Delaplane, VA 20144 540-364-2875

POOR HOUSE ANGUS

Jerry & Connie Hall P.O. Box 528 Uppersville, Va 20185 540-364-2875 FAX 540-364-3315 CELL 540-454-1512

Cattle Available by Private Treaty Watch for our consignments in Virginia Sales.

WE MEAT YOU NEEDS!!

Family Business Since 1960

John Thurman 540-493-6025

703 Woodman Rd. Rock Mount, VA 24151

Jason Thurman 540-493-4813

Steve Furrow 540-520-4804

FOUR LOCUST ANGUS Keysville, Virginia Zach, Dara & Dalton Tucker

March 10-12

VAA Annual Meeting, Natural Bridge Hotel, Natural Bridge, VA MAJAC Show

March 18

Headquarters for Hindquarters Bull Sale, Harrisonburg, VA

March 25

BCIA Southwest Performance Tested Bull Sale, Wytheville, VA

March 25

Belle Point Ranch Sale, Fort Smith, AR

March 25

G & E VA Premium Assured Bred Heifer Sale, Gretna, VA

March 25

Whitestone Farm Pasture PT Bull & Female Sale, Aldie, VA

April 1

MC Livestock Spring Bull Sale, Greenville, VA

April 8

Knoll Crest Bull Sale, Red House, VA

April 12-14

VA Beef Expo, Harrisonburg, VA

April 13

GIFT Sale, Harrisonburg, VA

April 22

Double Header Sale, Abington, VA

April 28

Quaker Hill Bull & Female Sale, Louisa, VA

James D. Bennett 434-376-7299 Jim G. Bennett 434-664-7935 Dalton G. Bennett 434-664-7946

www.fourlocustangus.com

AI BRED BULLS & HEIFERS AVAILABLE PRIVATE TREATY Annual Spring Bull & Female Sale Last Friday in April

The Arehart’s 2835 Shutterlee Mill Rd. Staunton, VA 24401 CELL 540-290-2240 CELL 540-290-4251

Annual Spring Bull & Female Sale Last Friday in November

Quaker Hill Farm Charles and Lee Rossen 5728 Poindexter Road * Lousia, VA 23093 FARM 540-967-1045 * CHARLES 540-894-3523 crossen@quakerhillfarm.com www.quakerhillfarm.com

BULL AND FEMALE SALE SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 2016 www.edgewoodangus.com

MAILING ADDRESS 400 Angus Lane, Williamsburg, VA 23188 FARM ADDRESS 28225 King William Road, West Point, VA 23181 PETE 757-880-7274 pete@hendersoninc.com PETER 757-298-6300 peter@hendersoninc.com

Paul S. Bennett 434-941-8245 Brain R. Bennett 434-664-8309 Scott Bennett 434-660-7268

Dennis J. Pearson

211 Four Locust Lake Lane Keysville, VA 23947 434-735-8161 * 434-736-9407 zach@spauldingequipment.net

The Program with A Plan The Plan with A Purpose

“Serving the Beef Industry Since 1944” 17659 Red House Road Red House, VA 23963 OFFICE 434-376-3567 * FAX 434-376-7008 Private Treaty Female Inquires Welcomed.

8459 March Wales Road Warrenton, Virginia 20186 540-326-2222 EMAIL SoldiersHillAngusFarm@hughes.net WEBSITE www.soldiershillangusfarm.com

PAGE 22, DECEMBER 2016, THE VIRGINIA CATTLEMAN

VIRGINIA SIMMENTAL ASSOCIATION

VIRGINIA SIMMENTAL ASSOCIATION Dana Campbell, VSA Secretary / Treasuer 4nelsoncampbells@gmail.com 3764 Lowesville Road Lowesville, VA 22967 434-277-9104 * www.virginiasimmental.com

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year From The Virginia Simmental Assciation!

THE VIRGINIA CATTLEMAN, DECEMBER 2016, PAGE 23

VIRGINIA CHAROLAIS ASSOCIATION

Below are some facts about the 16th Fall Herd Improvement Sale, hosted by the Virginia Charolais Association on November 5, 2016.

The sale was held at VA Tech and managed by Dennis Adams of The Outfront Cattle Service, College Station Texas.

The auctioneer was Smith Reasor of Rural Retreat Virginia. There were 46 live lots of purebred Charolais sold: 3 bull totaled $8,400 3 pairs totaled $5,100 5 cow/bull splits totaled $13,325 4 cow/heifer splits totaled $15,600 8 bred cows totaled $16,600 12 bred heifers totaled $22,100 9 open heifers totaled $16,650 2 pregnant recips totaled $6,200 46 live lots totaled $103,975 for an average of $2,260.33.

There were also semen and embryos that brought the total to $107,390. We will highlight some high selling lots next month.

2015 - 2016 VCA Officers

Bill Thompson - President 1295 Park Avenue Clifton Forge, VA 24422 540-968-1987 Kaitlin Smith - Vice President 454 Old Farm Road Lexington, VA 24333 540-463-6778 Deidre Harmon - Secretary 1445 Pipers Gap Road Galax, VA 24333 276-233-8852 Walt Winkler - Treasurer 124 Kindig Road Waynesboro, VA 22980 540-943-6144 Rob Farmer- Past President 8030 Greenwich Road Catlett, VA 20119 540-270-3886 Chad Joines Junior Advisor Virginia Tech Dept Animal & Poultry Science Blacksburg, VA 24061 540-557-7263 Charolais Bulls for Commerical Cattlemen

Charlottesville, VA, 434-566-2750

M

ountain eadows

William (Bill) Thompson 1295 Park Ave Clifton Forge, VA 24422 CELL 540-968-1987 MountainMeadowsCharolais.com FOR SALE Quality Charolais Embryos

River Croft Charolais Breeding Polled - Registered Performance Charolais William and Agnes Anerson P.O. Box 304 Altavista, VA 24517 434-369-5366 “Keeping the commerical producers in mind�

Charolais bulls for most discriminating buyer

Colonial Farms

Cross Mountain Cattle Co.

Robert Farmer 8030 Greenwich Rd. 124 Kindig Road Catlettt, VA 20195 Waynesboro, VA 22980 540-270-3886 Walt Winkler Gerry Scott 540-379-1975 540-943-6144

CREWS FARMS Registered Charolais

784 Payneton Rd. Chatham, VA Billy Crews, Barry Crews Billy C. Crews, Brent Crews 434-656-2361 434-656-3771

PAGE 24, DECEMBER 2016, THE VIRGINIA CATTLEMAN KNOLL CREST FARM JAMES, PAUL, JIM, BRIAN BENNETT 17659 RED HOUSE RD. RED HOUSE, VA 23963 434-376-3567 OFFICE 434-376-7008 FAX JAMES BENNETT - 434-376-7299 PAUL BENNETT - 434-941-8245 JIM BENNETT - 434-664-7935 DALTON G. BENNETT - 434-664-7946 BRIAN BENNETT - 434-664-8309 SCOTT BENNETT - 434-660-7268

MAPLEWOOD FARM

JOHN AND KAREN FLEISHMAN DANIEL AND ELIZABETH 5442 DANIEL CUPP ROAD DAYTON, VA 22821 JOHN 540-421-9511 DANIEL 540-383-1688 jdfdeere@att.net

MOUNTAIN LION MEADOW

TODD, LYDIA, LAYLA, AND LILLY SCOTT 1191 SPRING MILL ROAD CONCORD, VA 24538 434-665-1224 434-993-2502

OAK CREEK FARM

BILLY AND JACKIE KOONTZ 25840 INDEPENDENCE ROAD UNIONVILLE, VA 22567 540-854-6567 oakcreekfarm@gmail.com

POTTS CREEK FARM

JASPER & ALICE PERSINGER, JR. 2917 POTTS CREEK ROAD COVINGTON, VA 24426 540-747-3261 PottsCreekFarm@netelos.net

DOUBLE J FARM, LLC

WINTERFEILD FARM BARBARA & JASON KNABE 2074 GRAVEL HILL RD DILLWYN, VA 23936 Barbara 434-983-3110 barbaran2teeth@gmail.com Jason 434-547-9878 jasonknabe@gmail.com 2.2 MI. EAST OF U.S. 15 ON 617

REGISTERED POLLED HERFORDS “QUALITY CATTLE FOR QUALITY PEOPLE” JOHN WHEELER CATTLE IN TRAPHILL, NC HEADQUARTERS: 775 CLACTON CIRCLE EARLYSVILLE, VA 22936 OFFICE: FAYETTEVILLE, NC 910-489-0024 doublejfarm@yahoo.com

FAUQUIER FARM

DIAMOND “W” FARM

KEN & DORIS WORLEY 25052 RICH VALLEY RD ABINGDON, VA 24210 276-944-3458 CELL 276-356-3458 kworley123@earthlink.net

6470 BEVERLYS MILL ROAD BROAD RUN, VA 20137 HOME 540-347-4343 OFFICE 540-905-2667 NORTHERN VA area CATTLE FOR SALE fauquierfarm@yahoo.com

DEER TRACK FARM

CEDAR PLAINS FARM

R.E. BALTIMORE, OWNER, MANAGER, FEILD HAND 150 CARTERSVILLE EXT. CARTERSVILLE, VA 23027 HOME 804-375-3071 OFFICE 804-399-7409 “All Cattle Made in America”

3320 DEER TRACK RD SPOTSYLVANIA, VA 22551 BOB SCHAFFER 540-582-9234 FARM bob@deertrackfarm.com www.deertrackfarm.com “Virginia Finest” Performance Tested Bulls for sale

COTTAGE HILL FARM

QUAIL HOLLOW FARM

MIKE TAYLOR 20 COTTAGE HILL ROAD PETERSBURG, WV 26847 mwta.ylor@frontiernet.net HOME 304-257-1557 CELL 304-668-0580

Diane Wilson 6636 Monumental Mills Road Rixeyville, VA 22737 Home - 540-937-3428 Cell - 540-551-2116 QuailHollowHerefords@gmail.com www.QuailHollowHerefords.com

NORVUE FARM

BAY BROOK FARM

JACK SHEEHAN 4442 FACTORY MILL RD DABNEYS, VA 23102 PHONE 804-556-4947 EMAIL norvujack@gmail.com

RODNEY & BARBARA PHILLIPS 4277 FACTORY MILL ROAD DABNEYS, VA 23102 804-556-3810 rodney@baybrookherefords.com “Hereford Bulls for sale at all times.”

FROGTOWN ACRES

DUNROVIN

JERRY FUNKHOUSER REBECCA WEBERT 417 FROGTOWN LANE EDINBURG, VA 22824 HOME 540-984-8833 JERRY CELL 540-333-1020 REBECCA CELL 540-333-1019 EMAIL jerry@shentel.net

MEADOW RIDGE FARMS, INC. DOUG & MELISSA HARRISON 2184 HILLYARD DRIVE BROADWAY, VA 22815 540-896-5004 harrisonmeadow@aol.com

PIONEER FARM

CHARLES, MEREDITH AND OLIVIA WILLIAMS 485 HEREFORD CROSSING FAIRFIELD, VA 24435 herefordxing@gmail.com 540-460-8803

ROCK MILLS HEREFORDS PAUL AND KIM NOVAK 240 THUNDER VALLEY LANE CASTLETON, VA 22716 540-937-5553 rockmillsfarm@hughes.net

HEREFORD HILLS FARM ROY AND KIM DEAN 9311 BRADY LANE HARRISONBURG, VA 22802 540-432-9805 Rdean81333@aol.com

DON & SHEILA RICHARDSON 3473 DUNROVIN FARM CROZET, VA 22932 434-823-4438 EMAIL dunrovinva@hotmail.com THICK, DARK RED, HEAVY MILKING COWS DR WORLD CLASS DR MR CONSERVATIVE

VIRGINIA HEREFORD ASSOCIATION BULL DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE BULLS FOR SALE, PLEASE CONTACT BOB SCHAFFER AT 540-582-9234 OR EMAIL bob@deertrackfarm.com

THE VIRGINIA CATTLEMAN, DECEMBER 2016, PAGE 25

Flowing Spring Gelbvieh 6235 LEE HWY. ATKINS, VA 24311 CHARLES E. ATKINS OWNER 276-780-3979

MONEY MAING MATHEMATICS:

2+2=5 Add as much as $1,000 over the life of a crossbred cow with planned crossbreeding.

Doug & Sue Hughes 6916 Peppers Ferry Road Max Meadows, VA 24360 lwhf@wiredog.com CELL - 276-620-4271

TRIPLE D

Wyndemere Farm L.L.C.

Registered Gelbvieh Red and Black Polled Bulls & Heifers 13052 Ivor Rd., Sedley, Va 23878

2157 BLACK LICK RURAL RETREAT, VA 24368 JUDITH A. SWEETEN BRUCE SWEETEN REGISTERED NO. 48890

Alan Diggs 757-328-8161 Milton Diggs (H) 757-859-6118 Milton Diggs (C) 757-328-8459 EMAIL tridlaser@yahoo.com www.wd-trid.com

HOME 276-228-6347 CELL 401- 714-6812

Treble W Ranch

SOUTHFORK FARMS

Registered Gelbvieh Cattle

GELBVIEH & BALANCER CATTLE

17462 Fenton Drive Abingdon. VA 24210

Nathan and Sue Ellen Haver 969 Little River Rd Goshen, VA 24439

Joe & Gwen Wilson 276-628-4163 treblewranch@aol.com

540-460-0526 CELL) EMAIL nathan.haver@yahoo.com

James D. Bennett 434-376-7299

LITTLE WINDY HILL Farms

HANDFULA GELBVIEH

Paul S. Bennett 434-941-8245

Black, Polled, Purebred & Balancer Gelbvieh Cattle Stephen, Vivian, Megan & Caltlin Fanning 7278 East Blue Grass Trail Bland, VA 24315 276-722-2034

17659 Red House Road Red House, VA 23963 Office 434-376-3567 Fax 434-376-7008 Jim G. Bennett Brian R. Bennett 434-664-7935 434-664-8309 Dalton G. Bennett Scott Bennett 434-664-7946 434-660-7268

LAST CALL GELBVIEH Tom Lavelle, DVM 2984 Peppers Ferry Rd. Wytheville, VA 24382 Breeding for a Optimum not a Maximum.

Cell - 276-620-4042

GELBVIEH BREEDERS OF VIRGINIA, INC. 2157 Black Lick Road Rural Retreat, Va 24368

President:: Tom Lavelle - 276-620-4042 Vice President: Bruce Sweeten - 276=228-6347 Treasurer: Judith Sweeten 276-228-6347

REGISTERED POLLED GELBVIEH C.H. Morris & Sons 928 Morris Road Appomattox, Va 24522 Roger L. Morris 434-315-4294 C.W. Morris 434-391-4458

PAGE 26, DECEMBER 2016, THE VIRGINIA CATTLEMAN

Beef Council Update Enhancing consumer preference for beef & sustaining Virginia families.

A Producers Perspective on the Beef Checkoff

By Kent Pruismann Cattlemen’s Beef Board member Iowa Farmer/Feeder

I’m proud to be a third-generation farmer/feeder just south of Rock Valley, Iowa.

With my son and seven other employees - all of whom are passionate about maintaining a sustainable farm operation.

I understand that, as a producer, I have responsibilities to the land, animals and resources, and I take those responsibilities seriously.

With the prevalence of livestock operations here, it is important that we use the nutrients that are a by-product of our farms to feed the crop ground, while keeping the waters clean. I use the manure from my hog operation to feed my crop ground, and we sell cattle manure through the local co-op. I also use a sediment basin and lagoon with my feedlot. In addition, we have 17.6 acres of buffer to control the runoff.

Here’s what surprises some people: Since starting our operation in 1981, it has grown dramatically very much because of the need to care for the land. Caring for the land and maintaining a pollutant discharge permit is expensive. To service that high cost, it was either get out or get bigger and better at it.

Beef Doesn’t Sell Itself Obviously, my end goal in the cattle business is to sell safe, nutritious and delicious beef to feed families across the globe. But just as there are many moving parts to our work on

the farm, there are many checkoff supported programs that promote beef to consumers. After all, beef doesn’t just sell itself.

That’s part of the reason I’ve volunteered time and effort to be active with the Iowa Beef Council and Iowa Cattlemen’s Association, and to serve as a member of the Cattlemen’s Beef Board. When I first accepted my appointment to the Beef Board, I wasn’t really sure how my dollarper-head assessments were being spent and was a bit skeptical about how that was benefiting me as a cattle producer. Six years later, however, I can tell you that I’m a big believer in our Beef Checkoff Program.

The checkoff can’t single-handedly turn around a bad marketplace. Instead, the purpose of our checkoff is to increase consumer demand for beef.

Demand Relies On Information For today’s consumers, choosing beef isn’t just about taste; it’s about getting lots on information before they spend their money. They want to be certain that we are diligent in caring for our animals and the land we steward. If we aren’t transparent in sharing the entire beef-production process, then those consumers say they’ll simply choose a different protein.

Another hurdle we face is that consumers tell us they are confused about how to prepare and cook the dozens of cuts we offer these days.

So, we must go the extra mile to teach consum-

ers how to make every beef experience they have a gratifying one.

One of the ways our checkoff dollars get that done is by training those people who are working directly with consumers. We have extensive checkoff resources to help people who work at your grocery meat counter and at restaurants learn about beef. That includes everything from production and animal welfare to beef nutrition, cuts and preparation options. We train them about our industry, from gate to plate.

The checkoff organizes tours of cattle farms/ ranches and packing hous-

things like cutting demonstrations, “Beef University” and extensive videos and manuals to help train them to sell more beef.

And we provide on-package labels that include cooking times and temperatures, recipe suggestions and images.

And for those consumers who want to do their own information-gathering, your checkoff has developed the Interactive Butcher Counter on the beefitswhatsfordinner.com website. There, consumers can find an ideal beef cut for the meal they’re planning. They get everything from the best cooking

computer, device or phone, so they can look up what they need even as they’re standing at the meat case.

If you don’t truly understand how that happens with the dollar-per-head you pay, then I ask you to do what I did six years ago: Take the initiative to seek out the information. Start by checking outwww.MyBeefCheckoff. com, www.beefretail.org, and www.beeffoodservice. com to see your dollars at work. And finally, think about throwing your hat into the ring for a Beef Board nomination through one of your local beef organizations. It’s our money,

es to provide transparency for these influencers, and our checkoff uses

methods to recipes and nutritional information – and they can access it on any

and it’s our responsibility to know where it’s going.

THE VIRGINIA CATTLEMAN, DECEMBER 2016, PAGE 27

No-Bull Enterprises Introduces New Callicrate PRO Bander

No-Bull Enterprises is proud to introduce the next generation Callicrate Bander – the Callicrate PRO Bander™.

It is the most advanced tool of its kind, thanks in part to the use of CAD (computer-aided design) and CAM (computer-aided manufacturing).

“We eliminated the need to crimp the tensioned loop, which speeds up the operation by removing a step in the process, while also making the tool lighter-weight and ergonomically easier to handle,” says retired aerospace manufacturing engineer Roy Harbach, the product’s designer.

“We also traded out heavier materials in favor of lighter weight, high strength aerospacegrade materials.”

Other upgrades include replacing the tension system pull cord with a tough, webbed strap and adding a new 360-degree tension indicator that can be read easily

from any angle. In addition, the loops are bright green to help the operator verify the loop is secured and placed properly.

There is no wrong way to load the PRO Loop™, plus, the larger loop opening allows for easier application.

“Precision components are machined on modern CNC (computerized numerical control) machine tools to ensure accurate fit and finish tolerances, while building on No-Bull Enterprises’ two decades of experience in bringing the most humane, effective, high quality American-made tools to the animal health market,” Harbach said. “The fully encapsulated, ratchet design helps to protect the mechanism from the elements, expanding on the product line’s existing reputation for resistance to grit, wear, and abrasion.”

Enterprises also manufactures the Callicrate WEE Bander™, a state-of-the-art high-tension nonsurgical castration tool made specifically for smaller animals, including newborn calves, sheep, and goats. The original Callicrate SMART Bander and Loops will still be available.

Ask for Callicrate Banders at your local animal health supplier or call No-Bull Enterprises at 800-858-5974 or 785-332-3344 to find a distributor in your area.

Rachel and Sam are standing by to answer any questions you may have about the PRO Bander – the first new tool for delayed castration in two decades! All Callicrate products are made in St. Francis, Kansas USA!!

In addition to the new Callicrate PRO Bander™, No-Bull

Are you doing your part to keep consumers lovin’ beef?

When you sell your calves at the local auction market, you pay your $1-per-head beef checkoff to invest in maintaining strong demand for your product. But did you know that when you sell an animal to your neighbor, you also need to pay your share of the checkoff?

The beef checkoff returns $11.20 for every $1 invested. Your checkoff promotes the benefits of beef in a healthy diet, discovers ways to keep the U.S. beef supply safe and shares management practices that keep animals healthy.

So when you trade any beef or dairy animal, be sure to invest your fair share into the future of your industry. Your dollar-per-head investment can make a big difference in helping build beef demand.

To learn more about beef checkoff compliance, go to mybeefcheckoff.com, visit your state beef council at www.vabeef.org, or call 540-992-1992.

Highland Marshall, an Angus bull depicted in this statue, was donated to the Meadow Park in Doswell, Virginia by the Virginia Angus Association

Virginia Beef Checkoff Private Treaty Sales Checkoff Investment Form Remit to: Virginia Beef Industry Council; P.O. Box 9, Daleville, VA 24083 Date: _____________________ Seller’s Name: ________________________________________________________ Seller’s Address: ______________________________________________________ City, State, Zip: _______________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ Seller’s Signature

Total Number of Cattle Sold: __________X $1.00 per Head= $__________________ Date of Sale: _____________________ State of Origin: ________________________ Person remitting assessment: _____________________________________________

Buyer’s Name: _________________________________________________________ Buyer’s Address: _______________________________________________________ City, State, Zip: ________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ Buyer’s Signature

PAGE 28, DECEMBER 2016, THE VIRGINIA CATTLEMAN

VT Beef Leadership Council

The past month has been very busy for the Beef Leadership Council at Virginia Tech. At the end of October our members participated in two different fundraisers. First was the Hokie Harvest Sale where our members sold raffle tickets for prizes that were donated by agribusinesses around the state.

The Hokie Harvest Raffle is our largest annual fundraiser and gives our members a chance to promote our club in the community while raising money for future club activities.

The second fundraiser our members took part in was the

Southwest Virginia Angus Our latest project was our Association “More for Your Beef Tailgate Cook-off for Money” Sale where members the Virginia Tech home game helped move and sort cattle for against Georgia Tech. Students the auction. brought in their favorite beef In addition to fundraising, we tailgate dishes which were are actively working to grow our then sampled by a panel of membership. Mid-November judges to pick the winning the Beef Leadership Council dish. Congratulations to Cailin hosted an interest meeting Orgen for her submission of for potential new members Beef Queso! She won a $25 and we were excited to have gift card to Texas Roadhouse 36 individuals in attendance. that was sponsored by the club.

Interviews will be taking place Overall, we had a great month soon to bring new advocates engaging with the community and students passionate about and working to expand our the beef industry onto the ability to serve as advocates for council. the beefCattlemans industry. Newspaper 5x5.5 Virginia

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At Fink Beef Genetics, we’ve been using MULTIMIN® 90 on our yearling bulls for three years now with good results. Last year we participated in a trial through Kansas State University in which 500 of our fall born bulls received MULTIMIN® 90 in April, at weaning, when about 7 months of age and again in July, when about 10 months of age. By the middle of September they received a full BSE semen check and we found that by one year of age we were able to increase the number of bulls that semen checked by about 3% overall.

Even though they came from only 50 to 75 miles away, the blood work showed differences between the herds in the amount of selenium and other trace minerals. To me that meant MULTIMIN® 90 is a big equalizer, a product that breaks down over time and helps level out the differences in some of these animals that come in from different areas.

We intend to keep using MULTIMIN® 90 after seeing these significant benefits.

Oklahoma ‘Right To Farm’ Voted Down

Oklahomans have overwhelmingly voted down a measure known as the “Right to Farm.” State Question 777 which would give rights and added protections to farmers and ranchers in the state. Rights added by SQ 777 include the following: •The right to make use of agriculture technology •The right to make use of livestock procedures •The right to make use of ranching practices The language in SQ 777 has some wondering if the measure gives too much legal protection.

Opponents say, if passed it would be nearly impossible to put new regulations on anything agricultural -- whether it’s a puppy mill or agricultural runoff impacting water quality.

Pro 777 forces say opponents are exaggerating its legal impact. They say it will not affect federal law in any way, and say local lawmakers will still be able to approve new regulations.

Oklahoma Farm Bureau President Tom Buchanan released the following statement after the defeat was announced: “On behalf of the more than 26,000 family farmers and ranchers, Oklahoma Farm Bureau wants to thank the thousands of Oklahomans who voted for State Question 777, Oklahoma’s Right to Farm.

Family farmers and ranchers of Oklahoma work hard to provide the safest, most affordable food this Nation has seen. Although we are disappointed in today’s vote, we will not waver in our commitment to ensuring our family farmers and ranchers can continue to operate without fear from outside interest groups and provide consumers with choice when they go to the grocery store. This has always been the charge of Oklahoma Farm Bureau and we will continue in this endeavor.”

THE VIRGINIA CATTLEMAN, DECEMBER 2016, PAGE 29

Shenandoah Valley Livestock Sales

Harrisonburg, Virginia In the heart of Beautiful Shenandoah Valley.

Sales every Wednesday and Saturday Special State Graded Feeder Cattle Sales the First Saturday of Every Month A good supply of Quality Feeder Cattle at Every Saturday Sale Saturday Sales Times Sheep,Goats, and Hogs - 11:30 am Cattle Sale - 1:30 pm State Graded Feeder Cattle Sales - 5:00 pm

Vaughan Cattle Company, LLC

Local Dealer for Hay Wagons and Feeders.

Hay Silage Feeders.

All Sizes, Portable and Stationary.

Wednesday Sale Times 6pm State Graded Sales - 7:00 pm Phone Bidding Available for all graded Sales.

(Order Buying Available)

For more information, please contact Michael Ritchie at 540-820-1117 or visit us on the web at www.shenvalleylivestock.com or on Facebook.

Shenandoah Valley Livestock Sales 1044 Edom Road - Harrisonburg, VA 22802

Standard Round Feeder shown. Additional styles such as Rubber Tire Base, Equine, and small livestock also available.

In Stock 5-1/2 x 20 Feed Wagon $2,450 5-1/2 x 24 Feed Wagon $2,725 8’ Round Rubber Tire Base Hay Saver Bale Feeder $1,050 Super Hay Saver on Skids Holds 2 Round Bales $1,640 Ameri AG Mineral Feeder $170 Other Lengths & Sizes Are Available Competitive Pricing!! Call us for a Quote.

Vaughan Cattle Company, LLC 16530 Eggleston Road Amelia Court House, VA 23002 804-338-2820 or 804-543-2283 www.vaughancattlecompany.com

PAGE 30, DECEMBER 2016, THE VIRGINIA CATTLEMAN

Fueled by strong demand in key Asian markets such as Japan, South Korea and Taiwan, the United States is once again the world’s leading exporter of chilled beef. Chilled beef exports are considered an important driver of cutout value and industry profitability, as these products command a premium in overseas markets compared to frozen beef.

During the first nine months of 2016, beef cow slaughter totaled 1.834 million head – about 200,000 head more on a year-over-year comparison, yet 100,000 head fewer versus 2014. Beef cow slaughter through September in 2016 represents approximately 6% of the inventory (30.33 million head).

Meanwhile, the 2015 slaughter rate was 5.6% of the starting inventory (29.30 million cows). And 2014 beef cow slaughter through September equaled 6.6% of 29.09 million beef cows on January 1.

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THE VIRGINIA CATTLEMAN, DECEMBER 2016, PAGE 31

Devon Cattle For Sale

Pasture Raised, Pure Bred, Not Registered All Classes Available, Bulls, Cows, Heifers & Steers.

For More Information Call 703-926-4759

Plum Branch Farm, LLC Purebred Devon Cattle

Plum Branch Farm, LLC 855 Quarter Round Road Pacolet, SC 29372

John & Linda Hendrix * 864-497-2744 Delivery Available!!

Photo taken By: Jonjon DeBusk, DeBusk Farm, Saltville, VA.

There’s Profit in Retained Ownership at Black Gold Feedlot Vermont, IL

Steve Foglesong • 309-221-5597 Nate Foglesong • 309-337-1234 Jacob Nyhuis • 352-536-5496 Drew Foglesong • 309-221-1439 Brett Foglesong • 309-333-9510 Jonathan Dennison • 256-520-4727 www.blackgoldranchandfeedlot.com

Advantages for putting your cattle on feed at Black Gold

Retained Ownership Advantages

Abundant supply of cheap feed Located in West Central Illinois, Black Gold’s feedlot is in the center of the corn belt and has a huge supply of corn, distillers grain and food grade by-products literally at our door step.

Less freight to feedlot From Roanoke, Virginia to Garden City, Kansas is right at 1300 miles. Roanoke to Vermont, Illinois is 740 miles.

That extra 560 miles means more freight, more shrink, more stress. Trucks going to feedlots west of the Mississippi River drive right through Illinois. Reducing stress puts your cattle on the fast track to a successful finish.

Cattle all have a roof over their head Feeding inside on concrete eliminates the weather from the feeding equation. No Mud = Efficient Cattle Yield Cattle fed in our barn consistently yield 64% and even up to 68%.

Get paid for your work You’ve vaccinated, weaned, sorted, and fed them, now reap all the benefits of your hard work Get paid for your genetics You bought good bulls and have built a great calf, why not get paid for it? All those dollars spent on extra growth and marbling are wasted unless you sell finished cattle on a grid that pays you for it.

Low calf prices and cheap feed spell “Profit” for retaining your calves all the way through In the September issue of Beef Magazine Dr. Harlan Hughes outlined the strategy for cattlemen to gain an extra $102 dollars by retaining their calves at a custom feedlot all the way to finish.

No money lost to middlemen You pay NO commission or fees when you own them all the way through. That money stays in your pocket where it belongs.

PAGE 32, DECEMBER 2016, THE VIRGINIA CATTLEMAN

The Start of a New Life Season By: Valerie Rasmussen

It’s an exciting season for people of all ages, and this is a year I’m especially looking forward to. Holiday traditions have always been special to me, and my family will tell you that, to a fault, I have tried to hold onto those rituals for perhaps too long. I still set up the rickety Christmas Tree Santa Ski Slope that sends tiny elves around the tree with such noise it startles the dogs. I don’t believe in opening presents on Christmas eve. I like blasting the instrumental Christmas music a few weeks too early.

And as my first year married, it is time for David and I to start creating some of our own traditions as we meld together families and upbringings and Christmas traditions.

After a hectic year of wedding planning, work trips, and a new job on his end, we’re both thrilled that we’ll be staying home this year. David has never had a real tree, which I consider Christmas Blasphemy, so we will be finding a place to cut our own to stuff into the living room. When I first bought my house 4 years ago, I was so excited to have my own space that I invited my family over for Boxing Day. This is not a holiday in the US, but I learned of it while my dad was overseas.

The day after Christmas, it is a European holiday that no one seems entirely convinced of the point. I decided that for our family, it would be an appetizer and board game evening. We crowded around my coffee table and I did my best to cook up recipes I’d found on Pinterest.

As the beef community continues to grow into my life, and as work and personal life bleed together, I’m excited to meld beef into our new set of holiday traditions. This year, Continued on Page 33.

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THE VIRGINIA CATTLEMAN, DECEMBER 2016, PAGE 33

Bob Harris of Tazewell County, Hauling His CAttle to His Scale House.

From Page 32. New Life I’m looking forward to breaking out my (much-improved since 2013) cooking skills and incorporate some new beef appetizer options. Having just mastered the “Art of Homemade Jerky” for our Metrocooking DC event in early December, we’ll have many custom flavordustings available for snacking throughout the day. Mini beefwellingtons will make a hearty and warm impression without taking up too much table space.

We’ll do a fun pairing with a beef dish and David’s new (amazingly good) home brewed beers. And I keep hoping someone will find me a beef recipe for my favorite mealpart, dessert. Happy holidays, and cheers to new and old traditions!

PAGE 34, DECEMBER 2016, THE VIRGINIA CATTLEMAN

THE LEGEND OF THE CHRISTMAS TREE

BY LUCY WHEELOCK Two little children were sitting by the fire one cold winter’s night. All at once they heard a timid knock at the door, and one ran to open it.

There, outside in the cold and the darkness, stood a child with no shoes upon his feet and clad in thin, ragged garments. He was shivering with cold, and he asked to come in and warm

himself.

“Yes, come,” cried both the children; “you shall have our place by the fire. Come in!”

They drew the little stranger to their warm seat and shared their supper with him, and gave him their bed, while they slept on a hard bench.

In the night they were awakened

by strains of sweet music and, looking out, they saw a band of children in shining garments approaching the house. They were playing on golden harps, and the air was full of melody.

Suddenly the Stranger Child stood before them; no longer cold and ragged, but clad in silvery light.

His soft voice said: “I was

cold and you took Me in. I was hungry, and you fed Me. I was tired, and you gave Me your bed. I am the Christ Child, wandering through the world to bring peace and happiness to all good children. As you have given to Me, so may this tree every year give rich fruit to you.”

So saying, He broke a branch from the fir tree that grew near

the door, and He planted it in the ground and disappeared.

But the branch grew into a great tree, and every year it bore wonderful golden fruit for the kind children. * From “For the Children’s Hour,” by Bailey and Lewis.

Used by permission of the authors and the publishers— Milton Bradley Company.

THE VIRGINIA CATTLEMAN, DECEMBER 2016, PAGE 35

PAGE 36, DECEMBER 2016, THE VIRGINIA CATTLEMAN

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