JOURNAL
This year, the Brangus Value Project evaluated nearly 400 steers over four years to measure feedyard and carcass performance. Results proved modern Brangus cattle excel in efficiency, gain, and carcass quality—outperforming benchmark steers while grading 87% Choice or higher. With tenderness comparable to Angus and strong yield grades, the study confirms Brangus genetics deliver
8.6
Building for the Future: The Role of Brangus Genetics in the Rebuild of the American Cowherd
A Letter from the President
BY GRADY GREEN, IBBA PRESIDENT
As President of the International Brangus Breeders Association, I have the privilege of working alongside some of the most dedicated and forwardthinking cattle producers in the nation. Across every region of the country, our members have weathered years of drought, market challenges, and shrinking herd numbers with the same resilience that defines the Brangus breed itself. Today, as the U.S. beef industry enters a pivotal period of rebuilding, one message has never been more important: the future of our cowherd depends on the quality of the replacement females we develop and retain. The decisions we make now will shape the productivity, profitability, and sustainability of our operations for decades to come.
Over the past several years, the American beef cow inventory has reached some of its lowest levels in recent history. Drought conditions forced herd liquidation, rising feed costs challenged profitability, and many ranchers made the difficult decision to sell potential replacements rather than retain them. As conditions gradually improve and producers prepare to rebuild, there is an extraordinary opportunity to reshape the genetic foundation of the national cowherd. This rebuild will not simply be about adding numbers. It must be about adding
value through superior genetics, improved efficiency, and long-term herd performance. That is where known Brangus genetics can and should play a leading role.
Replacement heifers are the lifeblood of every cow-calf operation. They represent the next generation of cows that will determine the future success of our industry. Each retained heifer is an investment that carries the potential to enhance fertility, calving ease, carcass quality, and maternal efficiency across an entire herd. In times of expansion, the temptation can be to grow quickly, but the real key to longterm success is to grow wisely. Retaining and developing the right kind of females, backed by proven Brangus genetics, allows producers to rebuild with quality and consistency, not just quantity.
“The future of our cowherd depends on the quality of the replacement females we develop and retain.”
— GRADY GREEN
Longevity is one of the most overlooked economic traits in beef production, yet it has a tremendous impact on profitability. Every additional year a cow remains productive reduces replacement costs and increases lifetime efficiency. Brangus females are well known for their ability to stay in the herd longer due to their structural soundness, adaptability, and ability to maintain body condition even under tough grazing conditions. Their hardiness allows them to thrive in diverse climates and remain productive where other breeds might falter. This longevity is a cornerstone of economic stability for ranchers who are working to rebuild their herds after years of contraction.
Fertility is another crucial factor that determines the success of any cow-calf enterprise. A heifer that conceives early, calves without difficulty, and rebreeds quickly is far more valuable than one that does not. Brangus cattle are recognized for their reproductive efficiency, a trait that stems from both their moderate frame size and strong maternal instinct. Brangus heifers tend to reach puberty at an optimal age and maintain reproductive performance throughout their lifespan. By selecting replacement females from known Brangus genetics, producers can rely on a history of performance data,
By: Briley
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expected progeny differences, and breed consistency that provides confidence in fertility and reproductive success.
In addition to fertility and longevity, the marketability of Brangus genetics adds tremendous value to any operation. In today’s data-driven cattle market, buyers are seeking cattle with predictable performance and documented genetics. Calves with Brangus influence are in high demand because of their reputation for efficiency, carcass merit, and adaptability. Retaining heifers with known Brangus lineage not only strengthens a herd internally but also increases the value of offspring marketed downstream. From commercial producers to seedstock operations, Brangus genetics offer brand recognition and trust built on decades of proven performance.
Carcass value continues to be a defining factor in profitability, and this is where the Angus heritage within Brangus cattle shines. Brangus calves consistently produce beef with desirable marbling, tenderness, and yield grades that meet industry demand for premium beef. This carcass advantage allows producers to compete effectively in both branded beef programs and grid-based marketing systems. By selecting Brangus-influenced replacement heifers, producers are investing in a genetic foundation that ensures long-term success from pasture to plate.
Of course, no discussion of Brangus cattle would be complete without highlighting their exceptional maternal characteristics. Brangus females are renowned for their calving ease, strong mothering ability, and adequate milk production.
Their calm temperament and efficient feed conversion make them well-suited to a wide range of production environments. These maternal traits are not just desirable—they are essential to rebuilding a cowherd that can raise healthy, vigorous calves year after year. When producers retain Brangus-influenced heifers, they are investing in cows that will raise calves efficiently, protect them instinctively, and remain productive through multiple breeding seasons.
“Retaining and developing the right kind of females, backed by proven Brangus genetics, allows producers to rebuild with quality and consistency, not just quantity.”
— GRADY GREEN
As we look to the future of the American cowherd, it is clear that the decisions made today will determine the industry’s trajectory for years to come. The Brangus breed has the genetics, the data, and the people to lead this rebuilding effort. By focusing on known Brangus genetics, producers can rebuild with confidence, knowing they are selecting for traits that add longevity, fertility, marketability, carcass value, and maternal
excellence. Our association is committed to providing the tools, research, and genetic advancements that help producers continue improving the breed while meeting the evolving demands of the marketplace.
I encourage every Brangus breeder to continue leading by example. Invest in the genetics that have proven themselves through generations of performance. Retain the kind of females that represent the best of the breed. Share your success stories, performance data, and best practices with others in our industry. Together, we can ensure that Brangus cattle remain at the forefront of rebuilding a stronger, more resilient American cowherd. Our breed has always been built on the principles of balance, adaptability, and performance, and those same principles will carry us forward into the next generation of beef production.
— Grady Green IBBA President
The decision to relocate was made with our members and the future of our breed in mind. College Station offers proximity to Texas A&M University and access to a wealth of talent and resources that will benefit the IBBA for years to come. Our new facility is a better fit for the size and scope of our current operations—more efficient, cost-effective, and reflective of who we are as an organization today.
If you haven’t already, take a moment to explore the new IBBA website. It’s now fully operational on both desktop and mobile, offering a fresh look, improved navigation, and a design that truly represents the quality of the Brangus breed.
We’re also pleased to announce that we have
mOVING FORWARD, TOGETHER
BY RICK COZZITORTO, IBBA EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT
Photo By: Taylor Gazda
entered into an agreement with Frontiers Market to develop a new, state-of-theart EPD system. This platform will incorporate advanced AI technology to make it easier to use and offer more powerful tools for our breeders.
Lastly, our new digital advertising campaign is now running through December, and the feedback has been outstanding. We are reaching new and returning Brangus buyers across the country— providing our members with another effective marketing tool to promote their cattle and seedstock.
A big shoutout to our IBBA Board of Directors— without their leadership, vision, and dedication to this breed, none of this progress would have been possible.
This issue also highlights the candidates running for the board in 2026. Choose wisely, these decisions truly shape the direction of our breed. We must continue to be progressive and make choices that keep Brangus leading the industry, not catching up to it.
God bless our ranchers, our military, and our great country.
FThe Brangus Brief
The Brangus Value Project Showcases Four Years of Proof in Performance and Profitability
BY KYLE CALDWELL, IBBA DIRECTOR OF FIELD SERVICES AND STRATEGIC PROJECTS
our years ago, the International Brangus Breeders Association (IBBA), with the support of the International Brangus Breeders Foundation (IBBF) and Breed Improvement committee, launched the Brangus Value Project (BVP). The BVP was a first of its kind initiative within the association, aimed at progeny testing the breed’s most influential sires from across many different breeding programs to benchmark the terminal value of Brangus and Ultra-influenced feeder cattle in the feedyard and in the packing plant.
Brangus cattle, as a result of being a Brahman-influenced breed, have been on the receiving end of a number of tropes. It has long been known that Brangus owned one of the best females to eat grass in the beef industry, and as a result, commercial Brangus females are highly sought after in sales across the nation. Conversely, also because of the Brahman influence in its pedigrees, Brangus cattle earned a bad rap on the terminal side of the equation, with many in the industry offering negative criticism for feedlot performance and carcass quality. Anecdotally, from large volume users of Brangus genetics, we were seeing a different picture. We saw high grading carcasses from high growth feeder calves that rarely got sick and made whoever happened to own those Brangus calves a pile of money. What we needed was an unbiased progeny test to prove the quality of modern Brangus feeder cattle to the world. Since the inception of the BVP,
nearly 400 steers have been tested from 24 different bulls and one Angus reference sire. We bred all of these bulls via AI to about 75 commercial cows per bull in Texas and Oklahoma, purchased all the steers at weaning and allowed the cooperators to keep all the heifer mates to the steers. The purchased steers were sent to Hy-Plains Feedyard in Montezuma, Kansas and harvested at Cargill Meat Solutions in Dodge City, Kansas. The first two rounds of the project we also cut a steak out of the loin of each carcass and sent them down to Texas Tech University for slice shear force tenderness testing. This report will include the results from the latest Round 4 testing as well as the total averages for all four years of testing.
In studying the results tables, you will notice a couple of bulls popping up multiple times. In order to properly contemporary group these sets of calves and give the data as much power as possible. it was necessary to include at least one bull that had previously been through the test to create statistical “anchors” to compare the performance of sires in future rounds. All sires were selected by a subcommittee of theIBBA Breed Improvement Committee, based on the number of active progeny in IBBA’s database, the ability for Brangus breeders to source semen on the open market, as well as a few other base qualifications.
FEEDYARD RESULTS
Each year’s (round’s) steers were compared to as close of a group of contemporary steers as we could find – steers that entered the feedlot around the same time and weight as the BVP steers did and thus experienced the same environmental challenges as the BVP steers, aptly named the “Southwest Kansas Benchmark” (SW KS).
To keep it brief, the Brangus steers blew the SW KS benchmark steers away. Across all four years, the Brangus Value steers outgained the benchmark steers by 0.77 pounds per day while eating 0.44 pounds less feed per pound of liveweight gain. For an example scenario, let’s assume an average BVP steer and an average SW KS benchmark steer entered the feedyard on the same day at 700 pounds, and both steers were pulled for harvest at a 1550-pound finish weight, a feedlot gain of 850 pounds. Under this scenario, the Brangus steer would have reached its finish point in 217 days, a full 52 days faster than the benchmark steer. Phenomenal! More gain, faster, on less feed is easy math to do.
RESULTS FROM THE PACKING PLANT
After the feeding phase, the BVP steers were all harvested at Cargill Meat Solutions in Dodge City and consistently beat the industry grading average every year, averaging 87% Choice and
higher and $57.33 in earned carcass premiums. Premium Choice programs like Certified Angus Beef have certain requirements to ensure end-product quality like minimum marbling scores for eating experience and ribeye size and carcass weight restrictions for sizing consistency. One restriction aimed at controlling the influence of Brahman-influenced cattle into programs like Certified Angus Beef is a specification reading something like “program-eligible cattle must have less than 2 inches of hump” on the carcass. As no doubt many of you have noticed, precious few Brangus and Ultra-influenced feeder calves have any hump at all; and just to go the extra mile, I took an old probe (a stainlesssteel ruler) from my meat judging days to measure the round 2 steer carcasses myself, and not one had more than 2 inches of hump. That is a very long way of saying that if Brangus feeder calves meet the grading and size requirements, and 34% of them have, they will qualify for programs like Certified Angus Beef.
It is no secret that feeder cattle today are being fed longer, packing on more external fat to add more liveweight before slaughter. All the math says to do it, and as a result, carcass weights and quality grades are higher on average than ever before. A negative repercussion of this is declining yield grades across the industry. With more external fat, yield grade 4’s and 5’s, and their associated discounts, become more common. It needs to be said that while this is happening, the Brangus calves not only beat the industry average for quality grade, but they also averaged a yield grade 3.2.
TENDERNESS
For the first 2 rounds of BVP steers, steak samples were collected from the loin of each carcass and shipped down to Texas Tech for
tenderness testing, compared against the Angus reference sire, and evaluated on the USDA scale for tenderness classification. After two years of testing 14 different sires, we had 200 steak samples that were shearing as outrageously tender, with only a 1.75 kg difference in tenderness between the BVP steers and the Angus reference sire; and the average American can only detect a difference of 4.6 kg. At that point, the committee decided that with consistently impressive results such as these, we can say that Brangus does not have a tenderness problem and opted to discontinue tenderness evaluation.
WHAT'S NEXT
The BVP will continue for the next several years bolstering IBBA’s database with more carcass and feeding data. The beef industry is hungry for something new that combines fertility, longevity, and carcass in one package, and many have begun to take notice. In my travels and conversations with professionals across all segments of the beef industry, I continually hear similar comments like “I can’t believe THESE are Brangus” and “Whatever you guys are doing, KEEP DOING IT”. Information like this is what helps push the Brangus breed forward. Support the project and contribute to the greatest paradigm shift the beef industry has ever seen.
The BVP subcommittee is actively seeking potential sires for the next round of breeding decisions this coming spring. If you have a bull that meets all of the requirements listed and have the ability to donate at least 100 straws of semen that you would like to submit for consideration, submit all inquiries to kcaldwell@ gobrangus.com.
BVP SIRE SELECTION CRITERIA
1. Must be Active Brangus, Red Brangus, Ultrablack or Ultrared sire.
2. Must have genomically enhanced EPD’s.
3. Must be parent verified.
4. Cannot be potential or known carrier of any known genetic conditions.
5. Must have complete performance data recorded: BW, WW, YW, SC and Ultrasound Data
6. Must be of AI or ET service type; if not, sire candidate must have 20 paternal half-siblings in at least two different herds.
7. The sum of the Terminal and Fertility Indexes Percentile Ranks must be less than 80 (example: Terminal Index rank = 20 and Fertility Index rank = 55)
8. IMF breed rank must be 40 or better.
9. Minimum accuracy of 0.30 for BW, WW, YW, REA and IMF.
10. Semen must be available to the open market and accessible to other Brangus breeders with every intent to continue marketing the semen in the future.
11. Sire donors will be asked to donate a minimum of 100 units of semen and will receive a donation receipt from the International Brangus Breeders Foundation.
All semen donated but not used in the project will be returned and remains property of the bull owner/ donor.
12. All EPD requirements and comparisons are based on those within a respective breed.
• R’s and UB’s compared to each other, RR’s and UR’s compared to each other.
Brangus VALUE PROJECT supporting DATA
participating sires
YEAR 1
SUHN'S BUSINESS LINE 30D26
• CB MASTERPIECE 2051F
• SUHN'S TTT LM SIGNAL 30E13
MILL BAR HICKOCK 7242
BWCC BIG TOWN 192B16
DDD ONE SOURCE 103A4
YEAR 2
CB ORACLE 468F15
DMR EMPIRE 795D12
VOREL CURRENCY 25E8
MILL BAR HICKOCK 7242
BRIGGS GULF COAST 23F5
BWCC BIG TOWN 192B16
CB ORACLE 468F15
DMR CASH FLOW 535F30
MSC CROSSCUT 329E10
YEAR 3
BWCC BIG LAKE 111F4
BWCC MONUMENT 10D7
CB BLOUNT 607G7
CB ORACLE 468F15
QVF PR EMPOWER 30G16
T3 MODELO 129H4
MILL BAR HICKOCK 7242
YEAR 4
BWCC BIG LAKE 111F4
DMR EXPRESS 415J34
GACC DATA BANK 102H3
GRT MSC WOODFORD 889G24
• MC GRIDMAKER 948H10
• MC IGNACIO 468G5
• PRB DAYTONA 26J5
• SUHN'S TRIPLE CROWN 416J39
SUHN'S ULTIMATE 30H157
Bridging Hemispheres
Insights and innovations from the 2025 Inbound Trade Mission to Texas, Oklahoma, and Arkansas.
BY ENRIQUE CROTTO, USLGE CONSULTANT
The global livestock landscape is as dynamic as the genetics that drive it. In April, a delegation of Argentine cattle breeders, technical advisors, and industry leaders journeyed through the heartlands of Texas, Oklahoma, and Arkansas. This Inbound Trade Mission—jointly coordinated by U.S. Livestock Genetics Import, Inc (USLGE), the International Brangus Breeders Association (IBBA) and the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry (ODAFF), with the participation of an array of private and public partners—offered a rare, immersive opportunity to observe, exchange, and collaborate directly with leading figures in the American Livestock industry.
This mission was born out of productive meetings between USLGE and FAS USDA Buenos Aires during the International Agricultural and Livestock Show, La Rural de Palermo, in Buenos Aires in 2024. During these meetings, the USLGE team met with Ken Joseph and Agricultural Attaché Chase McGrath. They introduced us to Brangus breeder Alejandro Salemme and his advisor, Juan de Ezcurra. Having both travelled to the United States to visit Angus ranches over the past 20 years, they have incorporated significant amounts of U.S. genetics into their herds with excellent results and now aim to achieve similar successes with the Brangus breed.
South American operations, particularly in Argentina, have long admired the U.S. approach to cattle breeding—its robust infrastructure, data-driven genetics, and culture of innovation. Therefore, we saw this as an opportunity to link Argentine breeders directly with their U.S. counterparts; promising not only to accelerate the exchange of genetics, but also to inspire new strategies in herd management, market development, and sustainability.
Our journey across the American South unfolded through a series of remarkable visits to ranches and research institutions, each offering its own unique perspective on Brangus genetics, herd management, and the evolving marketplace.
Participants arrived in DFW on Sunday, May 13th, and traveled to Lawman Ranch in Okmulgee, Oklahoma. Shiloh Hall with over 15 years’ experience
managing around 300 cows, demonstrated his approach to cow selection, embryo production, and data-driven management. The ranch’s facilities and standout bulls like Bullet Proof and Outlaw showcased how U.S. genetics can meet export needs. That evening, Shiloh and Meriruth sellers from ODAFF hosted a steak dinner in Tulsa, where attendees connected with the local Brangus community and individuals from Oklahoma Brangus Breeders Association.
The following morning, our next stop took us east to Gentry, Arkansas, to visit Jackson's Double J Brangus. There, Jeremy Jackson and his family shared the story of their operation where a dedication to meat quality is seamlessly integrated with practical management. Jeremy walked us through his selection criteria, which balances performance data—such as weaning weight, yearling weight, ribeye area, and scrotal circumference—with phenotype and marbling. The diversity of animals and the attention to rib depth and sustainability were evident as we toured the pastures. Notably, the Jacksons have innovated their marketing, offering their beef both locally and online, a reflection of the evolving U.S. beef marketplace.
After a great lunch with Jackson’s Brangus sausages and burgers, we headed to Oklahoma State University in Stillwater where we were immersed in the academic side of the industry. Dr. Richard Coffey and Dr. Paul Beck led insightful discussions on genetics, nutrition, and herd health. The campus buzzed with research activity, especially around evidence-based management and adaptation to environmental constraints. We observed firsthand how artificial insemination protocols and university-industry partnerships are shaping the future of cattle breeding, marrying the strengths of academic research with the needs of producers.
With Jamie Cummings (ODAFF), we visited Burtrum Ranch where Clay Burtrum showed us his commercial herd and his use of the Virtual Fence system. This experimental technology improves herd management through the use of collars on the cows which allows the grazing area to be limited via GPS and
electric impulses.
On Tuesday, the group visited to Trio Cattle & Genetics in Ponder, Texas, which offered a glimpse into the expanding influence of Red Brangus genetics. Allen Goode has built a collaborative breeding program that is at the forefront of international genetics registration. As we toured his herd, it became clear that key maternal lines and sires—such as Fancy 175-4 and Wildfire—were driving progress. Additionally, IBBA has been developing a protocol to register foreign Brangus genetics, making it easier to incorporate cattle from Argentina Brangus and other Brangus associations into their registry. Collaboration with breeders and associations remains a cornerstone of their program’s growth. In essence, Goode’s work is driven by a commitment to genetic improvement and a focused strategy to expand their presence in the international cattle market.
Our journey continued to Desdemona, Texas, where Andrew and Shelby Conley of GKB Cattle introduced us to their multifaceted program. Managing more than 400 bull sales annually, GKB, owned by Gary and Kathy Buchholz, blend Black Brangus, Angus, Brahman, and Hereford genetics. We were impressed by their use of advanced reproductive technologies and their commitment to both phenotype and Expected Progeny Differences (EPDs) as well as their emphasis on youth development in agriculture. Large-scale auctions and pasture-based management showcased the strong commercial underpinnings of their approach.
That evening we drove to College Station where we would spend the next three nights.
On Wednesday, we met with Macee Wagner (IBBA), and visited 44 Farms, an Angus ranch in
BRIDGING HEMISPHERES
Cameron, Texas, a family-owned operation that has grown into a national supplier for retail giants like Walmart. The sheer scale—up to 2,500 bull sales per year—was matched by a meticulous, datadriven system prioritizing carcass EPDs, genetic advancement, and traceability. Walking the pens with James Burks, discussing the program’s approach with Kiefer Peckham, and visiting their fulfillment center, we could see how 44 Farms exemplifies vertical integration and collaborative improvement at the highest level.
Our visit to ST Genetics in Navasota, Texas, provided a window into the future of reproductive technology. We are welcomed by Diego Vallejo, assistant sales director, and then we met with Juan Moreno, CEO. Juan invited us to his conference room where, with his team, he shared their expertise in semen sexing, advanced genetics, and research into feed conversion and emissions reduction. Touring their facilities, we learned how laboratory innovation is directly transforming herd demographics and productivity for breeders around the world.
Later, we visited Texas A&M University's Department of Animal Science. It’s the largest and most comprehensive in its field, with around 1,300 undergraduates and a focus on cattle production, reproductive physiology, nutrition, and animal health.
During our visit, we spoke with Dr. Ky Pohler and Dr. Luis Tedeschi, who described how technologies like artificial intelligence and computer vision are being used for early disease detection and improving production. The discussions also addressed challenges such as commercial adoption, the balance needed in genetic selection for fertility, and the adaptation of practices to local conditions.
We toured the Rosenthal Meat Science and Technology Center, which provides hands-on experience in meat processing and collaborates with industry partners. The center uses advanced monitoring systems, studies genetics and growth, and highlights optimal breeding and cattle comfort. Dr Griffin was excited to share his passion of meat science, and the group was also able to meet Jim Butler at the retail center. Students benefit from direct involvement in breeding and evaluation, supported by academic resources on genetics and marbling. Our visit concluded with a tour of the O.D. Butler, Jr. Animal Science Complex with Dr. Andy Herring, where we observed training facilities and evaluated steers used for training.
Since our schedule was very tight, following our visit to TAMU, we traveled to the Hilton College Station, where the IBBA, organized, with the generous support of several sponsors, a networking reception for the Trade Mission participants.
This gathering brought together Brangus breeders, and key figures from the regional livestock sector, providing an invaluable opportunity for knowledge exchange and networking. We engaged in insightful discussions with Texas A&M University faculty and respected professionals across the cattle industry. Among the distinguished attendees were: Rick Cozzitorto, executive vice president of the IBBA, and his wife Melissa; Cary Crow, TransOva Genetics; Andrew and Shelby Conley, GKB Cattle; Grant Vassberg, Kallion Farms (Brahman); Kyle Caldwell, director of field services and strategic projects of the IBBA; Garrett Thomas, Hi Point Sales and Marketing; Dr. Dan Hale and Dr. Clare Gill, Texas A&M University; Juan Romo, Tajo Ranch; and April Villarreal, Villa Ranch.
Throughout the evening, conversations revolved around genetics, breeding advancements, and industry innovations, reinforcing the significance of collaboration in sustainable livestock management. The event served as a platform to strengthen connections between breeders, researchers, and industry stakeholders, fostering new opportunities for partnership and progress in the field, opening the door for more Trade Missions in the future, and increasing the export of more Brangus genetics in the near future.
The last day of the Inbound Trade Mission started with a visit to Leona, Texas, where Mound Creek Ranch welcomed us with their focus on genomics and carcass quality. Eddie Blazek’s genetics program,
rooted in four foundational cows and strategic Angus crossbreeding, has become a model for adaptability and measurable improvement. We discussed selection criteria based on weaning weight, yearling weight, ribeye area, and intramuscular fat—standards that drive both local and international success. He explained to us the origin of his genetic program, based on 4 founding cows 889Z, 1000Z, 1111Z and 1129Z and how they use crosses with Angus to achieve UltraBlack and Brangus animals that adapt to the needs of their customers and the industry producing functional animals with very good carcass numbers.
Finally, we visited Cavender Ranches at Griffin and near Neches Rivers where Joe Cavender showcased a commitment to uniformity and phenotype consistency. His balanced approach to commercial focus, detailed EPDs, and phenotype-driven selection was evident throughout the herds. The adaptability, consistency, and uniformity in size and type of the cattle made a lasting impression by reinforcing the importance of both science and art in herd management. Our group especially liked a bull calf that was a Longmire son.
Participants returned home with not only a deeper understanding of U.S. breeding, but also with actionable partnerships, potential purchase agreements, and a renewed commitment to continuous improvement. Notably, post-mission follow-ups have already resulted in the confirmation of orders for 600 straws of Angus semen and over 700 straws of Brangus bulls for the Argentine market. The mission’s success has encouraged the pursuit of future exchanges, with plans to include breeders from Uruguay and Paraguay in subsequent visits.
In a rapidly evolving marketplace, international collaboration is no longer optional—it is essential. As the Brangus community grows more interconnected, initiatives like this trade mission serve as a blueprint for future success, fostering innovation, transparency, and shared prosperity.
I found this Trade Mission to be highly rewarding. Covering over 3,800 miles within a brief timeframe provided valuable insight into southern U.S. agriculture. Collaborating with Macee and Jamie to organize this mission was an excellent experience; participants expressed their satisfaction with the trip, and the connections established during these days are expected to endure well into the future.
Any Country is Brangus Country!
CANDIDATES
MEET THE bOARD OF DIRECTOR CANDIDATES
MARK PERRY
Seat 1 - Texas
Hello Brangus Breeders, I am Mark Perry, and along with my wife Tammy and our two children Mason & Megan and a great team operate MP Brangus. A seed stock operation, with locations in Central, North Central and South Texas.
We are focused on development of bulls and females for the commercial cattle producer and seed stock operations. We have two production sales a year at our Poteet location.
Tammy and I live at our Comanche County location, where we develop our heifers. We also have our repo operation there, where we have about 600 recips that we transfer embryos to. The donor cows also live at the ranch with Tammy and I. This allows us to see them daily. We commute back to Waco daily where I am the President of MP Electric, Inc. an Industrial Electrical Contractor for the past 27 years.
We have our show program, managed by Timmy Lucherk and Family. We participate in most of the National Point Shows. I have had the opportunity of serving as Show Committee Chair for the past 2 years. This has been a unique experience as this committee is very passionate and involved in showing. One of the most important parts of serving as chair is fundraising. We are currently in
the middle of one of our most successful drives of my years of showing. We have Henry Rifles engraved with the IBBA Logo. We are auctioning off at sales. These are numbered 1 to 15, #1 was presented to the IBBA at Texas Invitational. So far #2,3 &4 have sold for over $30,000. Thank You to some very special supporters. We currently have 3 more scheduled for upcoming sales. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to own one.
One of my goals is to make Brangus cattle the best they can be, with that said we must have a strong breed organization. I also serve as the co-chair of the IBBA Finance Committee. I take this very seriously, this is our members’ money not one individual or small group, but the whole organization. Without strong organization the Brangus cattle cannot reach its full potential. This is why I am running for a position on the IBBA Board of Directors. If elected, you have my word that I will look out for the best interest of the organization and the cattle.
Thank you for this opportunity to serve you.
ALL ACTIVE INTERNATIONAL BRANGUS BREEDERS ASSOCIATION MEMBERS WILL RECEIVE A VOTING BALLOT IN THE MAIL TO PARTICIPATE IN THE ELECTION OF 2026 DIRECTORS.
ALL REPLY ENVELOPES MUST BE POST-MARKED BY DECEMBER 31, 2025.
BALLOTS POST-MARKED AFTER DECEMBER 31, 2025 WILL NOT BE COUNTED.
NIC CORNELISON
Seat 2 - Southeast
Nic Cornelison grew up with a love for both building and the land. As a teenager, he went to work at his family’s company, P&C Construction, alongside his father and uncle. Determined to earn respect through hard work, not just as “the boss’s son,” he spent years in the field before moving into the office in 2000. Through his leadership in overseeing large-scale projects, guiding the company, and managing its finances, Nic has helped grow P&C into one of Chattanooga’s largest commercial construction companies.
His contributions to the construction industry have also been recognized nationally. He is the youngest person ever to receive the AGC SIR Award, has served on the AGC Board of Directors for more than 23 years in every leadership role, and helped create the Construction Career Center in Chattanooga, which has received numerous national awards for workforce training.
Yet his roots run deeper than steel and concrete. Raised in a family with generations of farmers and Cherokee ancestry that lived directly off the land, Nic has always felt called to agriculture. That calling led him back to his family farm, where he and his family established Lake Majestik Farms, a Brangus and Ultrablack seedstock and cow/calf operation.
What began with a handful of mixed cattle grew into a nationally recognized program built on superior genetics and a commitment to responsible land and herd management.
At Lake Majestik, Nic’s philosophy is rooted in faith and responsibility: to care for the herd with integrity and to be a good steward of the resources God has entrusted. Over the years, he has built one of the most respected Brangus and Ultrablack herds in the world, supplying customers with high-quality cattle, semen, embryos, and fresh beef. His leadership extends beyond his own fences, as a past President of the Southeast Brangus Breeders Association, past president of the Southeast Brangus Breeders Association, past president of the Jackson
County, a past board member of Alabama Cattlemen’s YCLP Council, and current board member of ALFA Leaders. He also serves on the board of the International Brangus Breeders Foundation and is a partner in GenePlus.
In his capacity as a board member of the International Brangus Breeders Association, Nic pledges to act not for the interests of any single operation, but for the prosperity of the entire breed. With disciplined management of both livestock and ledger, he will bring the mindset of a fiscally responsible leader to this role. He will work diligently to ensure the association’s finances remain transparent, balanced, and aligned for long-term growth, and will advocate policies that strengthen the IBBA as a sustainable, value-driven institution for all breeders.
Whether in construction or cattle, Nic remains guided by the same principles: hard work, stewardship, and service to others. He is committed to creating opportunities for the next generation. For Nic, true success is not measured by size or titles, but by faithfully serving God, family, industry, and community.
ISAIAH DARK
Seat 2 - Southeast
Isaiah Dark was born and raised in north central Louisiana, where his passion for cattle and ranching began on his family’s horse and cattle operation. By the age of 14, he was already working at West Monroe Livestock Auction, gaining hands-on experience in the cattle industry. After graduating high school, Isaiah earned a degree in Welding Technology from Central Louisiana Technical Community College in 2015, balancing his studies with the growth of his own commercial herd. In 2016, Isaiah joined Hay’s Brothers Angus Ranch, where he honed his skills in pen riding, processing, doctoring high risk cattle, and assisting with the calving operations. These experiences deepened his understanding of the herd health, management, and the practical demands of ranch work.
Isaiah’s career advanced in 2018 when he became ranch manager at Sewell Cattle Company, primarily commercial cow/calf operations with a foundation of registered females. Inspired by the Brangus breed, Isaiah implemented a progressive AI and Embryo Transfer program, applying Brangus
genetics to both registered and commercial herds. His leadership has positioned Sewell Cattle as a respected contributor to the Brangus marketplace, known for his high quality Brangus and UltraBlack bulls, registered females and commercial females. He remains committed to the ranch’s philosophy: “always making the best better.”
Isaiah married his wife, Allison. In 2021, they started a family with the birth of their first son, Dutton Ray Dark. This year, they celebrated their 6th anniversary and welcomed their second son, Bodie Aylin Dark. Isaiah is grateful to be raising his children in the cattle industry. In addition to his professional work, he enjoys spending time with his family riding through pastures to check cattle.
Beyond ranch management, Isaiah has become a visible leader within the cattle industry. Since 2021, he has consigned cattle to the Southeast Brangus Showcase Sale also, Texas Brangus Breeders Association Spring Spectacular Sale and is actively engaged with regional breeder organizations. He currently serves on the Southeast Brangus Breeders Association Board of Directors (2024-2027) and Arkansas Cattlemen’s Association State Board of Representation, where he works to strengthen breeder collaboration,
promote youth engagement, and align marketing efforts across the region. A graduate of Arkansas Cattlemen’s Leadership Course (Class of 2023), Isaiah continues to contribute to the advancement of the state beef industry. He also helps promote and organize industry such as the CDP Brangus production sales, leveraging his network and reputation to bring visibility to the operation. He is a point of contact for potential buyers, breeders, and industry partners.
With a strong background in seedstock production, Isaiah combines hands-on experience with a firm understanding of modern breeding technologies and a clear vision for the Brangus breed. He is passionate about advancing the industry and believes that leadership positions should be held by those who work with the Brangus cattle every day.
Known for his integrity, energy, and practical insight, Isaiah is committed to representing and supporting breeders while ensuring the continued growth and improvement of the Brangus breed. Isaiah is honored to have the opportunity to run for the Board of Directors and expresses gratitude to the southeastern region members for their consideration.
PHILLIP DESALVO
Seat 3 - Southeast
Phillip Desalvo is the owner/operator of Big D Ranch in Center Ridge, Arkansas, where his wife, Beth, and their two adult children operate the 5th-generation ranch. Phillip takes great pride in carrying on the legacy that dates back to the 1880s and sharing that passion with his children, who are destined to be the 6th generation to run the family ranch.
Phillip has always had a passion for the cattle industry, beginning when he was a child learning from his father, Tony James, and grandfather, Tony Luke, on the family’s commercial cattle operation. Phillip took his years of experience and knowledge to lead the family ranch to the next level of cattle production by purchasing his first registered Brangus females from Joe Reznicek at Cow Creek Ranch (CCR). He was able to grow the
seedstock operation by utilizing AI in the registered herd and using the commercial cow herd for his embryo program. After years of consigning to CCR sale and later private treaty sales, Phillip began hosting his own Annual Production sale at Big D Ranch. Brangus and Ultra cattle have been the backbone of Phillips’ vision for many years and have provided the sole support for his family and the ranch for over 20 years.
While managing, operating, and maintaining a 400-head cow/calf, seedstock operation, Phillip has found time to be active in many aspects of the beef industry. He was the Arkansas Cattlemen’s Association President and currently sits on the executive board as appointed past president. Over the past 25 years, he has served on the Conway County Fair board, Conway County Farm Bureau Board, Arkansas Tech University AG Advisory Board, and the NCBA policy division nominating Committee. He has also served as chairman for the Arkansas
Cattlemen’s Leadership Course, Nemo Vista FFA Alumni Committee, and the Conway County Livestock Auction. Phillip and his family were the Arkansas Farm Family of the year in 2012, and Phillip was the Sulbelt Expo Southeastern Farmer of the year from Arkansas in 2013.
Phillips’ passion is the cattle industry in its entirety. The role of Brangus and Ultra cattle genetics, and the pathway for the next generation of cattle producers, is and should be wide open. Phillip has and will continue to work tirelessly for these two important issues to not only have a future but to thrive in it. He looks forward to the opportunity to work together to make certain that Brangus Cattle advance as the driving force of the future of our cattle industry, and become the pinnacle for the next generation of Brangus Breeders.
Phillip is a cattleman first and foremost and would appreciate your consideration to serve on the board.
KENDALL STENNETT
Seat 3 - Southeast
Kendall Stennett is the owner and operator of Spur S Cattle located in Waynesboro, Mississippi.
Growing up on his family’s commercial farm, Kendall developed a love for cattle and knew at an early age that he would always pursue a life built around the cattle industry. What began for him as a small commercial farm has now led to a substantially-sized registered Brangus operation, due in full to Kendall’s desire and dedication to raising top quality
cattle offerings. Kendall’s main goal is to produce elite females and bulls that can be utilized in a variety of customer operations.
He’s committed to improving not just his own herd, but ensuring that the herds of all who purchase Spur S genetics are set up for success.
Kendall has supported a number of beef industry organizations over the years; serving as his local Wayne County Cattleman’s Association president and a longtime member of the Mississippi Cattleman’s Association. Kendall is a member of the Southeast Brangus
Breeders Association, serving two terms on the board.
If elected to the IBBA Board of Directors, Kendall hopes to continue his passion of supporting all sized cattle operations through the promotion and education of the significance that the Brangus Breed can provide to their individual herds. He also looks forward to linking arms with all Brangus breeders devoted to furthering the cattle industry’s knowledge of the Brangus breed as a whole. Kendall thanks you for your consideration.
WARREN YOUNG
Seat 4 - West
My name is Warren Young, and I am running for a position on the Board of Directors for the IBBA.
I believe I am a qualified candidate and would be an asset to the ongoing development and growth of the IBBA. I am honored and excited to seek a second term on The IBBA Board of Directors.
I grew up on a farm in Texas. I attended Texas Tech University where I received two undergraduate degrees. From there, I moved on to College Station, Texas and attended Texas A&M University School of Veterinary Medicine. In total, I received five degrees culminating in a Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine with an equine specialty.
In 1998, I bought my first registered Brangus cattle. Young Land and Cattle
Co. was born as a result of that initial purchase, and I have spent the last 27 years developing my herd. Young Land and Cattle is located in central Oklahoma and is a seed stock operation. I am passionate about raising superior Brangus cattle. I research all available technology related to improving the breed and use all available testing to move the herd forward.
I am president and owner of Young Equine Services, Inc. and Young Land and Cattle, Inc.
I am presently the second vice president of the IBBA and president of the Oklahoma Brangus Breeders Association. I am a founding member of The Power Source Genetic Alliance and have served on many committees in the IBBA, AAEP, AVMA, and state associations.
I consider this position a great privilege to serve The IBBA membership and association.
GO BRANGUS!
AA season of thanks
Recognizing the hands and hearts behind our breed’s success.
BY LORI EDWARDS-DUNKERLY, IBBA DIRECTOR OF EVENTS AND EDUCATION
s we enter this season of gratitude, it feels fitting to pause and reflect on the many people who make the Brangus community what it is. Our association thrives because of the generosity, dedication, and belief of those who give, not just financially, but through their time, mentorship, and continued support.
To every donor, sponsor, and supporter we say, “thank you.” Your contributions make the programs, events, and opportunities within the International Brangus Breeders Association and the International Junior Brangus Breeders Association possible. Every scholarship, leadership activity, and educational event exists because someone cared enough to invest in the future.
The junior program, especially, is built for our Brangus juniors to grow into and to find their place, develop their strengths, and learn what it means to lead. Whether you have donated a sale lot, sponsored an award, judged a contest, or simply encouraged a young member, you have played a role in shaping the next generation of Brangus leaders.
As you sit down at the dinner table on Thanksgiving Day and reflect on the many blessings in your life, we want to say thank you to each of you who continue to support the Brangus breed and our junior members. Your generosity helps us carry out our mission and create opportunities that truly make a difference.
The future of the Brangus breed will be shaped not only by the cattle we raise, but by the people we develop. Our investment in education and leadership opportunities for juniors ensures that when it is their turn to lead, they do so with confidence, character, and heart.
As we give thanks this time of year, may we remember that our shared efforts today build the foundation for tomorrow. Together, we are not only raising great cattle, but we are raising great people.
From all of us at the International Brangus Breeders Association and International Junior Brangus Breeders Association — Happy Thanksgiving!
Photo by: Lindsay Hanewich Photography
2026 HOUSTON LIVESTOCK SHOW & RODEO SCHEDULE OF EVENTS
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 4, 2026 12:00 PM – Show Committee Meeting (NRG) 3:30 PM - IBBA Cattle Check-In (NRG - Brangus Booth)
THURSDAY, MARCH 5, 2026
8:00 AM – 12:00 PM – Committee Meetings (Hilton) 10:00 AM - Weigh Bulls (NRG) 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM – IBBA Board of Directors Meeting (Hilton) 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM – General Membership Meeting (Hilton) 6:30 PM – Social & International Brangus Reception (Hilton) Heavy Hors d’oeuvres & Drinks 7:30 PM – The International Brangus Sale (Hilton)
FRIDAY, MARCH 6, 2026
8:00 AM – International Brangus, Red Brangus, & UltraBlack/UltraRed Bull Show (NRG)
SATURDAY, MARCH 7, 2026
8:00 AM – International Brangus, Red Brangus, & UltraBlack/UltraRed Female Show (NRG) Group classes following Female Show 7:00 PM – Genetic Edge Sale
Last 3-5 years longer than other breeds
20-25% WW boost with Brangus cross
93% grade choice or higher
SHOW ANIMALS
SHOW ANIMALS OF THE YEAR OF THE YEAR
SILVEIRAS
PROOF IN PRODUCTION
G+ is the home of the top THREE leading AI sires in IBBA in 2024, Masterpiece, Triple Crown and Data Bank.
Emphasising structure, sheath design and balance, G+ sells more semen into more herds across the globe than any other Brangus program in the U.S.
Built for productivity AND profitability, G+ bulls are priced competitevely, allowing EVERYONE to improve and move the needle forward.
Cattlemen that understand the real-world cattle business, not the fluff and puff of the seedstock industry.
BRANGUS VALUE PROJECT
SEEKING 2026 SPONSORSHIPS
BY KYLE CALDWELL, IBBA DIRECTOR OF FIELD SERVICES AND STRATEGIC PROJECTS
The 4th Round of the Brangus Value Project (BVP) steers have been harvested, which means more data—and a stronger database—are on the way! We could not have made it this far into the project without the generous support of Brangus breeders all over the country; and we need your support again!
By donating to the BVP, you are sponsoring a Brangus-sired steer through the project, allowing the Foundation to stay competitive with the rising cost of purchasing research steers at public auction, but also to collect valuable data in the feedyard and packing plant.
The information gathered from this project helps strengthen the Brangus breed by identifying genetics that truly add value in today’s beef industry. From feed efficiency to carcass merit, the BVP provides hard data that producers and commercial cattlemen can use to make more profitable decisions. Every animal tested moves the breed one step closer to the ultimate goal of the project: Brangus cattle being profitable for the commercial cattleman, feeder, and packer alike.
By supporting the BVP with a $500 donation, as a way to say thank you, you will see your ranch’s name printed in the Brangus Journal and any other BVP promotional materials to recognize your contribution, as well as a beautifully marbled Premium Choice ribeye roll pre-cut into steaks and shipped to your house for your enjoyment. The International Brangus Breeders Foundation will also provide you a receipt for tax purposes.
Your support doesn’t just fund a single research project—it invests in the future of the Brangus breed.
Every dollar helps ensure that Brangus genetics remain competitive, relevant, and in demand.
Join your fellow breeders in making a lasting impact on the beef industry by sponsoring a steer in the Brangus Value Project. For more information or to sign up as a sponsor,, contact Kyle Caldwell, IBBA Director of Field Services and Strategic Projects, at kcaldwell@gobrangus.com
The
BRangus vigor components
BRangus vigor - a process verified program to differentiate genuine brangus sired feeder cattle from generic indicus crossbreds
brangus vigor will drive value for brangus sired feeder calves and build buyer confidence in the growyard and feedyard sectors.
sired by registered brangus or ultrablack bull source and age verified
weaned 60 days
bqa certified
2 rounds of 5-way respiratory vaccination
2 rounds of 7, 8, or 9-way clostridial vaccination
brangus vigor 840 eid tag *provided with program*
last day to wean: september 12th
$5/head enrollment fee for help placing eligible cattle contact kyle caldwell: kcaldwell@gobrangus.com (214)794-3625
sale summaries
Photo by: Cavender Ranches
MBJ & TRIO Power of the Brands Sale
September 13, 2025
Gross: $603,800
Total Sale of 75 Cataloged Lots averaged $8,048
4 Black Brangus Females averaged $11,750
31 Red Brangus Females averaged $8,131
13 Red Brangus Herd Sires averaged $7,446
11 Red Brangus Flushes averaged $6,768
48 Red Brangus Embryos averaged $1,666
2 Red Brangus Pregnancies averaged $6,125
3 sires (3 units) Rare Semen averaged $2,450
5 sires (45 unites) Exclusive Semen averaged $653
A global audience of Red Brangus and Brangus breeders and guests convened at MBJ Ranch in Wharton, Texas, for the Sixth Edition of the MBJ & TRIO Power of the Brands Sale. The 250 guests included cattlemen and dignitaries from Mexico, Brazil, Colombia and Venezuela. Online bidding was conducted from Australia with observances from Germany. By the final drop of the gavel 42 buyers out of 73 registered bidders had acquired the 86 lots of Red Brangus cattle and genetics offered by MBJ Ranch, TRIO Cattle & Genetics and their genetic partners. Cattle and genetic packages set out for Australia, multiple states in Mexico, Arkansas, Florida, Louisiana, Mississippi and Texas.
Champion Valley's Online Sale
October 6, 2025
4 Show Heifer Prospects grossed $24,500 to average $6,125
1 Bred Heifer grossed $6,750
2 Flushes grossed $7,750 to average $3,875
12 Embryos grossed $8,400 to average $700 per embryo
27 Straws of Semen grossed $1,512 to average $56 per straw
20 Total Lots Grossed $48,915
The offering showcased the depth and versatility of the Champion Valley program, from eye-catching show
heifers ready to compete, to proven donor genetics and exclusive semen opportunities. Each lot reflected the operation’s dedication to balanced performance, phenotype and breed improvement.
Villa's-CX Advantage Sale
October 4, 2025
5 Show Heifers grossed $71,250 to average $14,250
21 Embryos grossed $26,565 to average $1,265 per embryo
15 Straws of Semen grossed $3,675 to average $245 per straw
Topping the sale was Lot 4 – Villa’s Ms Magnolia 535N12, selling to MP Brangus of Comanche, Texas for $35,250. This standout female blended power, femininity and pedigree strength, making her a clear highlight of the offering.
High-selling embryos included Lot 6 – 63D x Sho Time 313H30, purchased by Jorge Romo for $1,600 per embryo, and Lot 9 – 129K13 x Sho Time 313H30, sold to Jonathan Carruth for $1,600 per embryo.
The top semen lot was Lot 11 – one straw of Sho Time 313H30, purchased by Jorge Romo for $2,025 per straw, underscoring the demand for Sho Time genetics.
Diamond K Online Brangus Sale
October 9, 2025
8 Total Lots Grossed $114,220
4 Show Heifer Prospects Grossed $109,750 to average $27,437
12 Straws of Semen Grossed $4,470 to average $372 per Straw
The offering reflected the depth and consistency of the Diamond K program, with high-quality females combining competitive look and proven genetics. Interest remained strong across all categories, reinforcing Diamond K’s standing as a trusted source for championship-caliber cattle and genetics.
Circle F Farms Annual Bull Sale
October 10-11, 2025
535 Total Lots Grossed $4,261,515 to average $7,965 per head
236 Bulls Averaged $10,847, highlighted by powerful sets of Angus, Brahman, Brangus, Ultrablack, Charolais, Red Angus, and F1 bulls.
217 Females averaged $5,569, featuring Brahman, F1 and percentage females known for maternal strength and adaptability, with top-end replacements finding homes in leading herds across the region.
Circle F Farms hosted a standout sale in Georgia that drew strong participation from commercial and registered cattlemen across the Southeast. The offering showcased the program’s depth, power and diversity, resulting in exceptional results across all divisions.
Allen Cattle Company's Ranching for
Profit Fall Edition Sale
October 12, 2025
8
Show Heifer Prospects grossed $83,750 to average $10,469
1 Horse grossed $18,500
24 Embryos grossed $13,400 to average $558
1 IJBBA Donation Lot – Semen Tank with Rare Semen and Embryos sold for $4,050
The sale featured a strong set of heifer prospects showcasing both eye appeal and performance potential, reflecting the Allen program’s continued commitment to breeding cattle that excel in the show ring and pasture alike. The high-selling horse added an exciting highlight to the event, while the embryo and donation lots brought solid support from buyers investing in proven genetics and the future of the industry.
MP Brangus Annual Fall Production Sale
October 18, 2025
51 Registered Females grossed $373,422 to average $7,322
33 Registered Bulls grossed $258,060 to average $7,820
50 Straws of Semen grossed $5,425 to average $108.50
The sale featured a strong set of Brangus genetics, highlighting both performance and breed-leading quality. Registered females and bulls drew consistent buyer interest, while the semen offerings provided opportunities to invest in proven genetics for future programs.
High Sellers:
Lot 1 – MP Miss Audra 38L19 sold for $15,000 to GKB, Desdemona, Texas
Lot 65 – MP Mr Perfecto 804M10 sold for $19,000 to Triple R Cattle Company, Mission, Texas
Lot 80 – MP Mr Milo 150M6 sold for $15,000 to Jack Gorczyka, Harrah, Oklahoma
Lot 98 – MP Mr Precision 915M17 sold for $12,500 to Triple R Cattle Company, Mission, Texas
Triple Crown Ranch Fall Special Sale
October 19, 2025
13 females grossed $165,490 to average $12,730
8 semen lots grossed $4,075 to average $508
21 total lots grossed $169,565 to average $8,074
Topping the female offering was TCR Aria 302N8, commanding $41,250.
The high-selling semen lot was TCR Barely Legal 56K6, bringing $1,020.
Triple Crown Ranch welcomed bidders from across the region for their spring sale, offering an elite lineup of females and semen lots that reflected years of disciplined breeding and performance focus.
remembering JAMES 'JIM' ELLER, JR.
FOR RELEASE BY THE ELLER FAMILY
James Marion Eller, Jr., known to all as “Jim”, passed Sept. 26, 20025. He was born June 16, 1932. He grew up working cattle and all summers on ranches in the area, as well as helping his dad with his cows. This would chart his lifetime career of horses, cattle, and ranching. In 1949, he entered what is now Texas A&M University where he majored in animal husbandry. He was a member of the Fightin’ Texas Aggie Band, playing the trombone, which he also played in a Dixieland band, and he played guitar in several country and western bands, as well.
During his junior year at A&M, Eller married Daphne May, his high school sweetheart. After graduation in 1953, he was called to military duty in the U.S Air Force, stationed in Amarillo, Texas. He enjoyed his time in the Air Force and ended his twoyear tour of duty as a Squadron commander and a first lieutenant.
After leaving Amarillo, the family moved to Richmond, Texas, for a job opportunity before Eller was offered a position with the Texas Department of Corrections in the agricultural administration office, in nearby Sugarland, as manager of field crops. He was hired to make surveys and maps and handle the layout of cropland and pastures. He later was put in charge of the row crop production, all of equipment operations, and other duties on about 100,000 of state cropland. During this time, he worked to get a master’s degree in agricultural economics at the University of Houston in Houston.
In 1963, Eller was offered the job of general manager of the Chance Farm in the Brazos River bottom near Bryan, Texas, owned by the Chance family for over 100 years. He took the job and moved his family to Bryan to pursue a new challenge of managing 8,000 acres of cotton, grain and pasture. This gave him the opportunity to try out new methods and systems as well as new technologies, in particular, cattle breeding systems that were innovative for the industry at that time. The Chance Farm was sold in 1970 and in 1971, Jim began a new job with National Feeds as general manager for their operations.
In 1972, Eller and his brother, David, formed a partnership called Granada Land and Cattle Company which eventually grew to a corporation of seven ranches and three feed yards. During the 1980’s, Granada Corporation became one of the largest cattle feeding organizations in the world. The company was also the pioneer and leader in embryo technology in the world. During those years, Granada was famous for its extravagant cattle sales, known as the Granada Gala, in the ballroom of the Shamrock Hilton Hotel in Houston, black-tie events with movie stars and celebrities in attendance. The Granada Equine
Services was opened in 1983 and quickly became an industry leader, still operating today. Eller served as the president of the Texas Brangus Breeders Association and the International Brangus Breeders Association, director of the National Cattleman’s Association, served on the National Meat Board, and the Texas and Southwest Cattle Raisers Association. In 1986, he was the recipient of the National Cattleman’s Association’s Award for innovative application of new technology in the beef cattle industry.
In 1992, Eller began working for the Texas Department of Criminal Justice again and in 1996, he retired from the position of executive assistant to the state director. That same year, he married Barbara Flusche and they moved to Robertson County to live on the ranch he owned and were members of the Franklin First United Methodist Church. They moved back to Bryan in their elder years and Barbara passed away in 2022.
Included in many more of Eller’s achievements and participation in organizations, he was a lifetime member of the Houston Livestock and Rodeo Association and the National Western Livestock Show. He was elected to serve as a director of the Texas Quarter Horse Association and American Quarter Horse Association. Eller was appointed by Texas governors to serve terms as a director of the Texas Animal Health Commission and three terms as a director of the Texas Department of Criminal Justice Board. He was a lifetime member of the Sul Ross Masonic Lodge and the Twelfth Man Foundation at Texas A&M University.
He was laid to rest at the Aggie Field of Honor in College Station October 1, after a visitation and service at Callaway-Jones Funeral Home in Bryan.
Eller is survived by his children: daughter, Susan and husband Gary Guest; son, Jimmy and wife Debbie Eller; and daughter-in-law, Trish Eller, wife of son, Bob who passed away in 2023. His grandchildren include DeeAnn Eller, Carrie and husband Jeff Kubichek, Katie and husband Jarod Andrews, Erin and husband Alverto Castillo, Robert and wife Natallia Eller, Casey and wife Lauren Guest, Callie and husband Steven Alford, Ross and wife Lauren Eller, Courtney Guest and fiancé Ross Navarro, and Kaylee and husband Cameron McCoy. Great grandchildren are Kolby, Kyle, and Kamryn Kubichek; Jace, Jaxxon and Jett Andrews; Camille Castillo, Casen and Carter Guest; Adelyn, Bryce and Aubrey Alford; Scarlett and Emma Eller; Liam and Reagan McCoy. He is also survived by his brother, David and wife, Candy Eller, and nephews Erik and wife, Aditi Eller, and Dirk and wife Emilie Eller.
Brangus & Ultrablacks BULLS & FEMALES
Calendar of events
Tanner Farms 19th Annual Pasture Performance-Tested Bull Sale
November 1, 2025
Shuqualak, MS
The Branch Ranch Rough & Ready Bull Sale
November 3, 2025
Mansfield, LA
Greater Jacksonville Ag Fair
Open Brangus Show
November 5, 2025 - November 7, 2025 Jacksonville, FL
Quail Valley Farms Annual Bull & Female Sale
November 7, 2025 - November 8, 2025
Oneonta, AL
Brangus Vigor Special Feeder Calf Sale
November 11, 2025
Crockett, TX
CDP Brangus Fall Production Sale
November 12-13, 2025
El Dorado, AR
Cavender Ranches Annual Fall Production Sale
November 14, 2025 - November 15, 2025 Jacksonville, TX
T3 Brangus and Pinebelt Alliance Bull and Female Sale
November 22, 2025 Purvis, MS
GKB Cattle Brangus Production Sale
December 6, 2025
Desdemona, TX
4th Annual Texas Drovers Bull & Commercial Female Sale
December 13, 2025 Weimar, TX
Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo
March 4-7, 2026 Houston, TX
Brangus Convention
July 23-26, 2026
College Station, TX
Visit www.gobrangus.com/events-and-shows to submit your event today!
award nominations now open
BY JODI JACKSON, IBBA AWARDS COMMITTEE CHAIRMAN
Nominations are now open for IBBA’s Breeder of the Year, Pioneer of the Year, Commercial Producer of the Year and Top Hand of the Year awards.
To ensure that your nominee receives full and fair consideration, please provide a short essay highlighting the achievements, and involvement of the nominee. Illustrate how they have advanced the Brangus breed and benefited fellow breeders.
Please do not assume that the Awards Committee knows all the reasons that your nominee should be selected to receive the award.
The Breeder of the Year recipient is a current member of the IBBA deserving of recognition for his/her successes and advancements made utilizing and promoting Brangus purebred cattle.
The Pioneer of the Year award recognizes an IBBA member, past or present, for his/her service, loyalty and contributions to the Brangus breed.
The Commercial Producer of the Year award highlights a commercial producers’ achievements incorporating Brangus genetics into their breeding program.
The Top Hand of the Year award is awarded to someone who has gone above and beyond in their service to Brangus breeders and the breed as a whole.
Nominations should be sent to ageye@gobrangus.com
All award nominations are due in the office by December 30, 2025.
AI TECHNICIANS
ARTIFICIAL insemination technicians
Emmet Capt
25230 Farm Road 410N | Bagwell, TX 75412
903-249-3937
Elite Reproductive Services
Jarrett Ezell
New Braunfels, TX jarrett@eliterepro.com | 830-708-2157
Zane Kantor
390 W HWY 164 | Donie, TX 75838 ezkantor@gmail.com | 254-747-0291
Jaran Lehman
Concord, AR
jlehman@premierselect.com | 870-668-6329
Ace McHatton | Grand Drive
Genetics
211 North First Street | Madill, OK 73446 acemchatton@gmail.com | 580-465-1361
Rodolfo Muro
690 Eagle Cliff Drive Flintstone, GA 30725 murogen2020@gmail.com | 706-671-3629
Jeremy Price Franklin, TX 979-204-9362
Jeff Reznicek Auburn, AL reznicekjeff@gmail.com | 334-734-0340
GL Sutherland Drasco, AR 501-412-4939
Charlie Tiner
P.O. Box 203 | Hempstead, TX 77445 dgtiner@hotmail.com | 713-252-4662
Cody Washman
Southwest Missouri 417-489-5450
Kenneth Welch
4965 FM 2064N | Troup, TX 75789 ka_welch87@aol.com | 903-571-8716
Corey White | Spur W Cattle 479 Hwy 397 | Preston, MS 39354 spurwcattle@gmail.com | 662-803-8815
To be added to the list of AI Technicians, email your name, location and contact information to info@gobrangus.com
THE ONLY THING FREE IN THE CATTLE BUSINESS IS HETEROSIS AND WE ARE GOOD AT IT!
Brangus were created 75 years ago to blend two desirable breeds to create a new one. Unlike breeding value or EPDs, Heterosis is not passed from generation to generation in a crossbreeding program without a loss in its level unless a stable breeding program is established (as has been done in Brangus and at OCF). Heterosis has the greatest effect on traits most affected by environment... adaptability, longevity, fertility, maternal ability,resistance to parasites and diseases, etc. OCF is widely known for its True Brangus and increased Heterosis, allowing its genetics to perform better in most environments. Long-time customers and repeat buyers tell the real story at Oak Creek Farms
TRUE BRANGUS AT ITS BEST • DATA RESULTS IN!
Recent Harvest Data on 63 OCF Brangus steers and heifers:
92% Graded Choice or Higher • 18 Head Qualified for CAB
3.37 Avg. Daily Gain • $1.10 Cost of Gain • 6.2 Feed Conversion
63% Carcass Yield • 2.8 Avg. Yield Grade
Canadian Feed Yard Harvest Data on 65 OCF Brangus Steers & Heifers
92.5% Graded Choice or Higher • 10 Head Qualified for CAB
ibba board of directors
President Grady Green, AR
1st Vice President Josh Walker, Ph.D., AR
2nd Vice President Warren Young, DVM, OK
Secretary/Treasurer Jeremy Jackson, AR
EAST REGION
Trey Cuevas, Purvis, MS - Seat 7 treycuevas3@yahoo.com
Grady Green, El Dorado, AR - Seat 9 grady@dragginmranch.com
Jeremy Jackson, Gentry, AR - Seat 2 jjackson101@gmail.com
Rob Singleton, Seville, FL - Seat 3 rsingletoncattle@yahoo.com
texas region
Mary Douglass, Seguin, TX - Seat 1 twoheartsbrangus@yahoo.com
Joe Fuller, Willow City, TX - Seat 5 jw.fuller@yahoo.com
Jodi Jackson, Waco, TX - Seat 10 jodibjackson1990@gmail.com
Gary Adamek, Schulenburg, TX - Seat 12 gary@fayettecountryhomes.cm
West Region
Sharee Sankey, Council Grove, KS - Seat 13 sankeys6nranch@yahoo.com
Matt Barton, Stillwater, OK - Seat 8 rangeroptics@gmail.com
Warren Young, DVM, Blanchard, OK - Seat 4 wbydym@hotmail.com
At large
Randy Schmidt, M.D., Texarkana, TX - Seat 6 doctorrand@me.com
Josh Walker, Ph.D., Ben Lomond, AR - Seat 11 josh@redbudfarms.net
Cover Photo Briley RIchard
IBBA Committee Chairmen
Breed Improvement
Dr. Randy Scmidt | doctorrand@me.com
IJBBA Advisory
Michael Allen, DVM | allencattleco@yahoo.com
Finance
Jeremy Jackson | jjackson101@gmail.com
Show
Mark Perry | mark@mpelectric.net
IBBF
Brandon Belt | brandonbelt@aol.com
Long Term Planning
Joe Fuller | jw.fuller@yahoo.com
Promotions
Megan Greenwood | megan@greenwoodcattleco.com
International Garrett Thomas | garrett.r.thomas@gmail.com
Membership & Education
Karen Adamek | yeehaw1966@yahoo.com
Commercial Marketing
Cody Glenn | cody@towncreekfarm.com
int brangus auxiliary
President
Tina Gardner, China Spring, TX
1st Vice President
Tami Jones, Stillwater, OK
2nd Vice President
Marlene Schwerin, Gentry, AR
Secretary
Sami Roop, Grapevine, TX
Treasurer
Connie Smart, Runge, TX
Historian
Jodi Jackson, Waco, TX
Social Media Coordinator
Jennifer Walker, Ben Lomond, AR
Int brangus foundation
President
Brandon Belt, Gatesville, TX
Secretary/Treasurer
Rick Cozzitorto
Allen Goode, Mabank, TX
Chris Heptinstall, Dothan, AL
Tracy Holbert, College Station, TX
Traci Middleton, Puryear, TN
Cindy Blazek, Leona, TX
David Wood, Magnolia, MS
Nic Cornelison, Flat Rock, AR
Mark Cowan, Detroit, TX
Dr. Darrell Wilkes , McCormick, SC
IBBA STAFF
Executive Vice President
Rick Cozzitorto | rcozzitorto@gobrangus.com
Director of Operations
Abby Geye | ageye@gobrangus.com
Director of Registry Services
Callie DeLarm | cdelarm@gobrangus.com
Director of Genomics & Research
Macee Wagner | mwagner@gobrangus.com
Director of Events & Education
Lori Edwards-Dunkerley | ledwards@gobrangus.com
Director of Field Services & Strategic Projects
Kyle Caldwell | kcaldwell@gobrangus.com
Director of Marketing & Communications
Briley Richard | brichard@gobrangus.com
Brangus publications, INC
Editor in Chief
Briley Richard | brichard@gobrangus.com
Advertising Sales
Kyle Caldwell | kcaldwell@gobrangus.com
Advertising Sales
Jay Carlson | jay@carlsonmediagroup.com
IJbba Board of directors
President
Savannah Hanson, TX
Ex-Officio
Emma Tittor, TX
International Brangus Queen
Anna Kate Goree, MS
Director
Isabelle Parkey, TX Director
Emily Jackson, AR Director
Gracie Johnson, TX Director
Aubrey Meador, TX Director
Camille Burns, TX
Director
Carlee Taylor, FL Director
Carter Aucoin, LA
ADVERTISING INDEX
ABOUT THE BRANGUS JOURNAL The International Brangus Breeders Association (IBBA) is proud to offer its members and industry affiliates the opportunity to promote themselves through Brangus Publications, Inc.’s (BPI) print and digital mediums. IBBA’s printed publications are produced by BPI and are distributed to a mailing list, comprised of addresses in Australia, Colombia, Costa Rica, Mexico, Philippines, Thailand, and the United States; with a circulation of approximately 2,000.
The Brangus Journal (ISSN 0006-9132) is published by Brangus Publications, Inc. (BPI), 8870 US Highway 87 East, San Antonio, Texas 78263, monthly except February, June, July, and September. Periodicals postage paid at San Antonio, Texas and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: send address change to Brangus Publications Inc., P.O. Box 809, Adkins, Texas 78101.
The Brangus Journal is the official publication of the International Brangus® Breeders Association (IBBA). The Brangus Journal is published eight times annually. The purpose of the Brangus Journal is to serve the best interest of IBBA members by showcasing breeding programs, efforts, and achievements to other Brangus® seedstock producers. Lastly, the Brangus Journal serves as an outlet for the IBBA to provide updates by directly communicating with the membership. The claims made by advertisers in this publication are not verified by BPI or the IBBA. For subscriptions, email info@gobrangus.com, or call 210.696.8231. Domestic periodicals (one year) $25; first class $55; foreign periodicals (one year) $25; air mail to Canada or Mexico $70; air mail to other countries $115.
