• High resistance to multiple isolates of Aphanomyces Race 2
• Branched rooted, for adaptation to most soil types
• Unmatched new genetics for high yield and forage quality
• Reduced Lignin, High Digestability with excellent yields
• Solid Disease resistance package w/ high leaf-to-stem ratio
• Longer harvest window for long & short term rotations
18 Illinois Beef Association Members “Gone to Texas” for Cattle Industry Convention
IBA joined cattle producers and industry partners f rom across the country for educational workshops, policy development, checkoff discussions and networking opportunities.
20 Henry County Cattleman Serving at National Level
Al Lyman of Hadley Farms continues his path of beef advocacy and leadership on the Beef Promotion Operating Committee.
24 Biosecurity on the Farm: What is Necessary?
Dr. Teresa Steckler of University of Illinois Extension discusses a bioscurity plan to protect the health of your herd.
26 Impact of Cow/Calf Liquidation for Illinois Cattle Producers
Drought continues to be a major headwind for the cow/calf industry. With limited and high-cost feed a nd roughage, continued liquidation is forecast into 2022.
In
Check out the sale results, show results, and youth contests from this year’s Illinois Beef Expo!
Jim Meller, Anna, meller.hillcroft.james@gmail.com
1st term expires: 2019 | 2nd term expires: 2022
Ex Officio Members
Dr. Buzz Iliff, Past President
Travis Meteer, U of I Extension & BQA
Dr. Teresa Steckler, U of I Extension
Dr. Jennifer Earing, Illinois State Univeristy
Association Focus
Paul Walker, Illinois Beef Association President
January and February are affiliate meeting months and once again Josh, Dave and I had to opportunity to attend several of these meetings. I am always impressed at how well each affiliate accomplishes the same goals of promoting beef, sponsoring youth activities, and advocating for the cattle industry in unique and different ways. Each proves the old adage there are many right ways to do good things. Early in January we attended the Southern Illinois Beef Association Banquet in Mt. Vernon. Past IBA board member, Dave Wilcox of Kent Feeds and Dell McGill of McGill Fencing, provided interesting commentary regarding improved cattle nutrition and improvements for building fence. The wit and humor of Tom Saxe will live on long beyond his years, though I am certain we will get to enjoy it for some time to come.
I enjoyed meeting old friends at the Adams County Beef Producers Annual Meeting and Banquet. Adams County had an impressive crowd and should be proud of their many accomplishments over the past year. Adams County has a great mix of young, progressive board members and older, seasoned board members. We should all be reminded that such a mix of dedicated leaders is necessary for any organization to grow. Margaret and I also attended the Knox County Cattlemen’s Association Annual Meeting and Banquet, as did board members Jake Fidler and Terry Boydstun. I am just glad I got to speak before Buzz Iliff, the featured speaker. Buzz, as always, hit a homerun. I never saw so many politicians at a beef meeting as I did in Galesburg that evening – just goes to show how important that cattlemen’s membership is. I believe Dan Swanson, Norine Hammon and Ester Joy King have been to as many Agriculture meetings as I this winter. It is good to have friends like them in Springfield and Washington. The highlight of the evening for me was visiting with former State Representative, Don Moffitt. Don gets much of the accolades for the General Assembly passing the Illinois Livestock Management Facilities Act decades ago.
On Sunday, Jan. 30, Josh, Dave and I attended the Prairie Beef Association Winter Luncheon as did board members Matt Witte, Rich Dean and Wes Hornback. Prairie Beef Association hosted a great panel discussion regarding “Marketing Beef in 2022”. Panel members included several local beef producers who shared their success stories about raising and marketing beef. Kent Feeds sponsored the lunch. It goes without saying (but saying so every once in awhile is good) we value the important relationship IBA has with Kent Feeds through the efforts of Dave Wilcox in co-sponsoring several IBA activities like BQA meetings, affiliate meetings, junior activities, etc. Thanks Dave.
In February, several IBA, board members and past board
members including Shannon Walsh, Thad Tharp, Jake Fidler and Kent Lock along with Josh and I attended the Tri-County Cattlemen’s Association Annual Banquet. This is an annual “blowout event” with many friends, great food and dynamic entertainment. It was a fun time. Again, the leadership of Tri-County is composed of enthusiastic young producers and experienced veterans. Tri-County is commended on their ability to garner the support of so many sponsors to support their scholarships and educational and promotional activities.
I speak for all of IBA, the board and staff when I thank all of our state affiliates for a job well done. Yes, IBA is a grassroots organization. Affiliates doing all of the great things affiliates do at the local level to promote beef, advocate for the cattle industry, and to educate and nurture our young people is the soul of IBA. As always, if you want Josh, Dave, or I to attend your meeting, just give us a 30-day notice and one or more of us will be there. If you are an IBA member, thank you for your support of our great industry. If you are not an IBA member, join as soon as you can to enjoy the enthusiasm and be a part of something great.
Congratulations to the Illinois Beef Expo Committee and IBA staff for another great Expo. Some 700 head of junior cattle between 194 steers and 506 heifers were entered. I continue to be amazed at how high the quality of cattle is that the Illinois juniors exhibit. The new venue for selling at the Illinois Performance Tested Bull Sale seemed to work well. Selling cattle “on screen” is a good use of technology. This year’s bulls were the most uniform in kind and quality. Accolades to Travis Meteer and his committee for a job well done. The quality of cattle in the Angus and Simmental breed sales was high, also. From an historical perspective the Expo was developed by the breed associations in conjunction with IBA to promote breed association sales. The junior show was a second-year afterthought. Over the years the junior show has blossomed and grown. As an industry, Illinois cattle breeders need a winter event to bring us together to visit, to share ideas and to promote our great breeds of cattle. The IBA management team always welcomes suggestions for improvement. You are encouraged to reach out to Josh or to me with creative ideas. Feel free to think “inside the box” or “outside the box. The Expo is important to IBA and to the future of the Illinois beef cattle industry. It is a great event for great people.
Executive Edge
Executive Vice President
This issue of Illinois Beef magazine highlights a lot of success across our organization – including a great feature profiling several women who are leaders in our state’s cattle industry. This story is one small tribute to all of the women in our beef industry, and it marks the international celebration of the month of March as Women’s History month.
We also have a great recap of the success achieved by Illinois Beef Association delegates to the Cattle Industry Convention last month in Texas. At the Convention one of our Illinois leaders was selected for the NCBA Beef Promotions Operating Committee and a number of our members participated in policy and checkoff meetings. We also celebrate the outcomes of a great Illinois Beef Expo earlier this month, too. It was a huge turnout in Springfield for junior contest and competitions, along with the trade show and successful bull sales. The convention and expo were both really big turnouts in support of the beef industry, and a testament to the dedication and service of the volunteers among our group. Thanks to everyone who helped make both events such a big success over the last six weeks!
There is a lot to be proud of within the Illinois beef industry, and I have enjoyed the chance to visit a number of our county and regional cattle meetings this winter where I saw local recognition marking the successes of our members in their own communities. The chance to be part of your local cattlemen’s meetings has truly been a highlight for me, because every stop has showcased something or someone in your region of the industry that’s doing great things. I’ve had the chance to get through most corners of the state in
recent months, and every community I have visited has a common thread of great families working together to produce a high-quality product; our industry is blessed to have some many great people engaged in beef production.
We’re finalizing the plans for our upcoming Illinois Beef Association summer conference, which happens in early June at Macomb. There are details a little further along in this issue of the magazine, but I want to highlight one feature of this year’s program – we’re partnering with an organization of high-quality people to join our meeting for the summer of 2022. This year’s conference happens in conjunction with the Illinois Forage and Grassland Council (IFGC), who will add new programs and field forage demonstrations to our twoday event. I think this will bring added information and value to our conference for IBA members, and I’m grateful that the IFGC leadership was willing to partner with us. Please make plans to join us in McDonough County in June.
I always remind cattlemen across the state that we’re here as a staff to serve your needs. Please don’t hesitate to reach out with questions or concerns, as the IBA is your organization and we’re available to help with issues or we can put you in touch with cattle industry resources to assist with your needs. My contact at the office is josh@illinoisbeef.com or (217) 787-4280 and if I am on the road, you can call or text me via (217) 282-0250.
Josh St. Peters, Illinois Beef Association
Extension Update
Travis Meteer, University of Illinois Extension Beef Specialist
Better Pasture Management Pays
Feed costs represent the greatest percentage of total costs for cow/calf producers. Thus, focusing on opportunities to reduce feed costs will lend to the greatest cost control for cow/calf operators. Improving management of permanent pastures is crucial to profitability. Increasing land costs, commodity prices, and other inputs are all incentivizing better pasture management. Although it is nearly impossible to discuss all the factors that go into improving pasture management, here are some considerations and tips to make pastures more productive and profitable.
Rest Keeps Roots
Resting plants allows them to recover leaf tissue without robbing from the root base. Continuous grazing will result in animals overgrazing. Overgrazing is a function of time. Animals will continue to graze down the most palatable plants. Overgrazing reduces yield, lowers root reserves, and makes plants more susceptible to drought. Plants need leaves to collect sunlight and roots to absorb water and nutrients. Resting plants allows leaf tissue and root mass to sustain optimal photosynthesis and thus growth/yield. One of the best indicators that a plant has recovered is when the tips of the leaves of the plant are sharp. Also, stands that are quick to put out seedheads in the spring are likely more stressed and need less grazing pressure. Stands of forage that are less stressed will have more leaf to stem ratio and will maintain a vegetative state longer in the grazing season.
Residual - Take Half, Leave Half
One of the best rules of thumb of a rotational grazing
practice is to “take half, leave half.” This is a simple reminder to leave some leaf tissue to continue to gather sunlight. Another common stated saying from grazers is “grass grows grass.” Plants need leaves to gather sunlight for energy to grow. In an overgrazing scenario, leaves and roots are depleted and the plant takes much longer to regrow.
Weed Control
One of the most difficult parts of pasture management is weed control. Weeds are a part of the landscape. However, a well-managed pasture will have a diverse sward of palatable, desirable species and limited weed pressure. One of the most overlooked weed control strategies is simply managing forages to promote a dense, thick stand. This likely starts with proper stocking rates and resting forages. So, when trying to control weeds, think about managing for what you want and not managing against what you don’t want. Inevitably, you will have weeds in a pasture that need controlled. Mechanical control via mowing can work well or herbicide control may be another option. Spot spraying herbicides is likely the best option. Broad-spectrum herbicide applications can remove wanted forage species when trying to eliminate the unwanted species. Weeds can be signaling soil imbalances, excesses, and deficiencies. Many times improving soil fertility and correcting mineral imbalances or pH balances will help alleviate weed pressure. Lastly, overgrazing and continuous grazing practices will result in more openings in the stand and allow for increased weed pressure.
Fertility
While it may seem obvious, low soil fertility is one of the biggest hurdles to maximizing forage production. Some soils are inherently low fertility. Soil testing is the best method of determining soil fertility. If soils are low fertility it is beneficial to add fertility when cost effective. Amendments may also need to be made to balance soil pH and mineral imbalances. Overgrazing, haying, and soil erosion can all remove valuable nutrients from pastures. Grazing animals deposit a large portion of the nutrients back onto the pasture in the form of manure. However, nutrients can be concentrated by the animal in areas of shade, water, and windbreak areas, thus leaving some areas deficient over time.
One of the most common ways to remove nutrients from pastures is through hay production. The table above is from the USDA Agronomy Handbook and shows removal rates.
Water, Shade, and Paddock Size
Distance to water, location of shade, and size and shape of the paddock can really determine grazing patterns. This is especially true during the summer when animals stay relatively close to water and shade. As a result, larger and more obtuse shaped pastures may be unevenly grazed. This alone can cause overgrazing to certain areas. Square shaped paddocks that have water within 800 ft. of the boundaries will be the most evenly grazed. Managing the time the animals are in a certain area is the best way to improve forage utilization, while also allowing for appropriate recovery periods. Continuous grazing results in roughly 30% pasture utilization. A seven-day rotation with six paddocks results in approximately 55% utilization and moving cattle once or more a day will result in a 75% utilization. A planned, adaptive grazing plan is needed by all grazers to ensure a successful grazing season that results in economical production of healthy animals.
Gate Cuts
Paul Walker, DI Walker Consulting
Guarded Optimism
The good news is American consumers will eat all the beef America produces each year, ideally at a price above the cost of production. The bad news is the price of that beef may be or can be below the cost of production. In a textbook market, as supply of beef goes up the price of beef goes down as demand relative to supply decreases. According to a typical supply and demand cycle, as supply of beef goes down the price of beef goes up as demand relative to supply increases. Then along comes Covid followed by inflation and textbook theory is altered. So many issues outside of textbook supply and demand factors affect the cost of production of cattle and the price consumers are willing to pay for beef. During the Covid pandemic we observed that consumers were willing to pay extremely high prices for beef. Consumers had money from government stimulus payments plus a perception that beef was limited or was going to be limited. During the current inflation era we are learning that consumers have less money and are less willing to pay high prices for beef. Being the entrée of choice has its advantages as consumers are willing to pay more for beef than pork or poultry, but it has its disadvantages too, as beef can price itself off the plate. The Russia and Ukraine War is creating shortages of feed grains and fertilizer, is disturbing normal trade, and increasing the cost of energy – all increasing the cost of producing cattle. We have yet to experience the effects of a China-Taiwan confrontation and the resulting effects on global trade, inflation and/or deflation. Will China always be a market for U.S. beef, pork, corn and soybeans? Time will tell. But so many external factors now affect our cost of production and our markets for products. Because the feedlot to consumer segment of the fed cattle/beef portion of the industry has an hourglass shape (many feedlots at the top, a few packers in the middle, many retailers/consumers at the bottom) these external factors affect our profitability much more now than in previous years.
“Given emergent technology, changing consumer behavior and dining preference, and the extraordinary challenges of the last two years, the industry is unlikely to ever completely return to its pre-pandemic state,” said B. Harlan Riehle of the National Restaurant Association. While this quote is in reference to the restaurant industry, it is also true for the beef industry. The cattle industry is now entering that phase of the cattle cycle where fewer feeder
cattle are being produced. Therefore, relative to a stable demand, prices of finished cattle should be increasing. And, during Feb. 2022 finished cattle prices have been rising. However, on the consumer side of the hourglass, beef prices have plateaued, and demand is decreasing as reflected in falling cutout values. Consequently, since the $1000+ peak in packer margins of 2020, packers’ margins have slowly decreased to present time. How low packer margins will go is yet to be determined. Lower packer margins, lower cutout values, lower consumer ability to pay for beef (not necessarily the same thing as lower consumer demand for beef) will eventually keep finished cattle prices from rising and may decrease cattle prices in the shorter term. During these volatile times producers should certainly look to the futures market to lock in any profit on both the cost of feed side and the finished cattle side. This is often easier said than done.
The cutout value to live cash price ratio has been interesting to track the past two years. During 2020 and 2021 the ratio was consistently higher than 2.05:1. [A ratio of 2.05:1 is my estimated new norm for the cutout value to live cash fed cattle price ratio.] Beginning Nov. 23, 2021, the ratio dropped below 2.05:1 ranging between 1.95:1 and 1.88:1. For the last two weeks in Jan. 2022 the ratio ranged 2.05:1 and 2.11:1 only to decline in February. Currently the ratio is ranging between 1.77:1 and 1.90:1. A low ratio below 2.05:1 favors the feeder relative to the packer. However, a low ratio may favor no one (neither the packer nor the feeder) when both the cutout value and the live cash price are low, and this may be the era we are entering. Many economists have forecast higher finished cattle prices in coming months or years, but the current inflation era and global politics may alter those predictions. As inflation rises or persists the consumer has fewer dollars to spend on beef and lower prices of pork and poultry seen more affordable.
I tend to be a cup half full kind of person and no country produces as wholesome, nutritious and tasty beef in as sustainable way as U.S. cattle producers - and Illinois does it best. Illinois has five things no other state has - central location, an abundance of water, sufficient feed sources (both traditional feeds and by-product feeds) packing houses and a large consumer base. Illinois can be self-sufficientcup half full!
June 7 – 8 , 2022 in Macomb
Spoon River College Macomb Community Outreach Center
Day 1 will include conference, meetings, educational sessions, tradeshow & awards banquet Day 2 will include tours, the Forage Expo & demonstration Held in conjuction with Illinois Forage & Grasslands Council
Affiliate News
Adams County Beef Producers
The 46th Annual Adams County Beef Producers Meeting was held on Jan. 22 in Paloma. Annabelle Schaffnit was selected as 2022 Beef Queen and Isaac Stotts was selected as 2022 Beef Ambassador. The night included a recap of 2021 events, dinner, scholarship awards, door prizes and a silent auction. Dr. Paul Walker of IBA was the guest speaker.
The 2022 Beef Bonanza will be held on March 26th at The Ambiance in Quincy at 6:00 p.m. Tickets are $40 and include food, beverages, auction and live music. All money raised will benefit local youth involved in agriculture education. Please contact President, Tyler Shaffer at 217-653-1621 for tickets.
Tri-County Cattlemen’s Association
The Tri-County Cattlemen’s Association Banquet was held on Feb. 12 at the Western Illinois University Union Grand Ballroom. Over 500 local cattlemen and cattlewomen, local leaders and sponsors gathered to support Tri-County Cattlemen’s scholarship program. Dr. Paul Walker spoke on behalf of IBA and scholarship recipients were recognized.
The 2020 scholarship recipients were Halee Hendel, Sidney Hood, Evan Wynne and Erin Curley. 2021 scholarship recipients were Will Hensley, Brooklyn Welsh, Max Carnes and Spencer Jack. The 2022 scholarship application is now available for high school seniors in the Tri-County area pursuing a degree or career in agriculture. The application can be found on the TriCounty Facebook page or online at tricountycattlemen.com.
Affiliate News
Do you have Affiliate News? Submit information to Mareah Rauch at mareah@illinoisbeef.com 217-787-4280.
Please notify Mareah with changes to affiliate officer teams.
Tri-County Cattlemen’s Association Annual Banquet
Tri-County Cattlemen’s Association board members
Henry County Beef Association
The 59th annual Henry County Beef Banquet will be held on March 26, at Lavender Crest Winery. The banquet schedule includes a social hour at 5 p.m. and dinner at 6 p.m. plus an evening of recognition and the annual scholarship auction. For tickets please contact Courtney Ericson at 309-507-2025 or Ron Lindbom at 309-853-6570.
Prairie Beef Association
The Prairie Beef Association hosted “Marketing Beef in 2022” on Jan. 30th in Clinton. The meeting was moderated by Rita Frazer of RFD Radio, with several other ag media folks in attendance. Speakers included Derek and Rick Dean of Dean’s Bacon and Beef, John Groves of Save A Lot, Zach Rincker of United Producers, Rachel Marx of Arthur Sale Barn, Matt Witte of Bloomington Meats, Wes and Sara Hornback of Sunset Meats, James Toohill of Toohill Beef, Katie Sellmeyer of ES Meats, Ryan Haefner of Purebred Beef
Marketing, and Ross Albert representing grass fed beef.
Beef producers stretching five counties attended for industry speakers, luncheon and prizes. Dr. Paul Walker, Dave Duzan and Josh St. Peters attended to represent IBA and Nick Anderson was present on behalf of the Illinois Livestock Development Group.
Marketing Beef in 2022
Marketing Beef in 2022 meal
Larry Marting speaking at Marketing Beef in 2022
In the Know
Illinois Beef Foundation Announces 2022 Scholarship Winners
The Illinois Beef Foundation is pleased to announce the 2022 scholarship recipients. The Foundation recognizes the incredible talent of young, beef industry enthusiasts and helps them achieve their educational goals.
The following will each receive a $1,000 scholarship:
• Paige Lemenager of Hudson is the daughter of Luke and Stacy Lemenager. She plans to attend Lake Land College with the goal of becoming an agricultural attorney. Paige is actively involved in the Illinois Junior Beef Association, Illinois 4-H Livestock Ambassador Team, Illinois Junior Angus Association, Illinois Junior Hereford Association and Illinois Farm Bureau.
• Lizzie Schafer of Owaneco is the daughter of Aaron and Sue Schafer. She plans to attend Kansas State University and major in agricultural communications. Lizzie is actively involved in the Illinois Junior Angus Association, Illinois Junior Beef Association and the National Junior Angus, Simmental, Limousin and Hereford Associations. She now serves as Illinois Angus Queen.
• Haley Bickelhaupt of Mount Carroll is the daughter of John and Julie Bickelhaupt. She is a student at the University of Illinois Urbana Champaign pursuing a degree in agricultural communications. Haley has held several impressive internships, with the most recent as Marketing Intern for Trans Ova Genetics. She has also held leadership roles in different campus extracurricular organizations.
• Lauren McMillan of Tiskilwa is the daughter of Jodi and Kyle McMillan. She is a student at University of Illinois Urbana Champaign pursuing a degree in agricultural leadership, education, and communications. Lauren’s internships and extracurricular experiences are nothing short of impressive. Most recently, she served on the National Junior Hereford Board of Directors, as Orange Krush Captain, ACES Council President and Illini Emerging Leaders Chairman.
• Jenna Spangler of Marietta is the daughter of John and Holly Spangler. She is a student at University of Illinois Urbana Champaign pursuing a degree in hospitality management. Her most notable achievements include being owner of Jenna Lou’s Homemade Ice Cream, a University of Illinois James’ Scholar, CEO of the McDonough County CEO Escape Room and Illinois Simmental Queen.
“All of this year’s applicants were of excellent quality,” said Illinois Beef Foundation Chair Dr. Paul Walker. “The applications were well written, and the applicants had numerous accomplishments which made the decisions of the committee all that more difficult. That is why we found the money to award one more scholarship this year than last year. I encourage those applicants who did not receive a scholarship to apply again next year.”
Thanks to the generous donors and bidders for the 2022 online Illinois Beef Foundation Silent Auction, over $5,300 was raised for future youth scholarships.
Lizzie Schafer and Paige Lemenager
Haley Bickelhaupt and Lauren McMillan
2022 Policy Priorities
NCBA’s policy focus for 2022 is to protect and promote the economic, environmental, and social sustainability of the U.S. cattle industry.
Improve Market Leverage & Opportunities
• Improve upon the risk management tools available to producers.
• Secure full reauthorization and funding for Livestock Mandatory Reporting (LMR).
• Increase producers’ access to market data and improve transparency into market transactions.
Secure the Future of the Beef Industry
• Preserve critical tax code provisions that protect a viable business climate for today’s producers and support the next generation of family farms and ranches.
• Ensure electronic identification (EID) requirements for traceability are implemented efficiently, and without costly burdens to producers.
• Level the playing field and fight for fair, accurate labels on fake meat products.
• Build on record-breaking export sales by expanding market access through science-based, fact-based trade standards.
• Advance reforms to the “Product of the USA” label that promote voluntary, verified, and trade-compliant labeling that returns more value to producers.
• Defend and advance animal health practices and innovations that are critical to the beef industry’s viability.
• Protect private property rights against potential overreach or restrictions under the 30x30 initiative.
• Defend public and private grazing against attacks under WOTUS, ESA, EPCRA, NEPA, and GHG emission reporting regulations.
Boost the Resiliency of the Beef Supply Chain
• Advocate for bipartisan reforms to the H2-A visa program and other measures to address the shortage of skilled workers.
• Continue pushing for resources to expand hook space among small, independent, and regional processing facilities.
• Implement our wins and push for further hours-of-service/ELD flexibility for livestock haulers.
• Secure continued investment to strengthen the rural broadband network.
Support Commonsense 2023 Farm Bill Priorities
• Secure reauthorization of the animal health provisions in the 2018 Farm Bill and advocate for expanded funding of the National Animal Vaccine and Veterinary Countermeasures Bank (NAVVCB) to protect against Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD).
• Expand accessibility and fund risk management programs and disaster relief programs within the Farm Bill, to support financial stability for producers.
• Protect and fund EQIP, CSP, and other voluntary conservation programs that incentivize science-based, active management of our natural resources.
• Defend against the addition of a livestock title.
ILLINOIS BEEF ASSOCIATION MEMBERS Gone to Texas Gone to Texas FOR CATTLE INDUSTRY CONVENTION
Illinois Beef Association (IBA) members gathered in Houston, Texas on Feb. 1-3 for the 2022 Cattle Industry Convention and NCBA Trade Show. IBA joined cattle producers and industry partners from across the country for educational workshops, policy development, checkoff discussions and networking opportunities.
The opening general session featured NASCAR driver in the Daytona 300, Jeb Burton and hall of fame boxer, George Foreman. Foreman shared his journey from a kid running the streets of Marshall, Texas, to a professional boxer inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame, to commercial pitchman for the George Foreman Grill. He shared three pieces of advice to those in attendance - have principles in all aspects of life, always fight for what you believe in and have conviction to do unto others as you would have them do unto you.
Also, during the opening general session Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner announced Tony Romo as their 2022 spokesperson. This partnership will last one year with the goal of reaching Romo’s fanbase to promote all things beef. Romo is a former Dallas Cowboys quarterback, after his start
at Eastern Illinois University.
“I’m really excited to be your new spokesperson,” said Romo. “Me, my wife and the kids eat beef all the time and I think we’re going to eat it even more if that’s even possible at this point. Hearty and sustainable beef is my new team.”
The next general session featured a state of the industry and D.C. issues update from Ethan Lane, NCBA vice president of governmental affairs. The NCBA policy team also shared updates from their discussions at the federal level that can affect cattle operations. During this session members were given the opportunity to ask the policy team members questions on specific topics.
In another general session, NCBA welcomed Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack, Under Secretary of Agriculture for Farm Production and Conservation Robert Bonnie, and British Ambassador Dame Karen Pierce to the 2022 Cattle Industry Convention and NCBA Trade Show.
Secretary Vilsack committed to addressing challenges that producers are facing regarding the supply chain, processing capacity and drought. He recognized the need for increased processing capacity and announced continued assistance for
producers who have suffered loss from catastrophic disasters. Under Secretary Robert Bonnie noted the industry’s role in conservation efforts and that cattle producers play a critical role in environmental stewardship goals.
Dame Karen Pierce shared her optimism in strengthening the relationship between the United Kingdom and the United States through continuing negotiations to reach a free trade agreement. As the U.K. places the upmost importance on sustainable beef production, Pierce shared her confidence in the sustainability goals set by NCBA last year.
The executive committee of the NCBA approved the organization’s 2022 policy priorities with an emphasis on strengthening the economic, environmental and social sustainability of the cattle industry.
While industry sustainability will continue to be a focus during the year ahead, NCBA will continue to focus on protecting cattle producers from government overreach and burdensome tax and regulatory burdens.
The popular CattleFax Outlook Seminar, shared expert market and weather analysis. Cattle price and profitability trends for producers are pointed in the right direction, even as challenges and uncertainty persist with continued disruptions from the pandemic. While issues around labor and packing capacity have lingered, both are expected to improve in the year ahead. These expansions in capacity combined with strong global and domestic consumer beef demand suggests increased profitability across segments, signaling a market that is healthier and more stable in the year ahead, according to CattleFax.
New industry leaders were also elected during convention. Al Lyman ended his three-year term as the Federation region III vice president where he represented Illinois, Iowa, Missouri, Minnesota, and Wisconsin for the checkoff portion of NCBA. Al is an IBA member from Henry County, Ill. where his family raises feeder cattle. Janine Moore from the Iowa Beef Industry Council was elected to serves all Lyman’s replacement.
St. Peters will serve a three-year term alongside of state executives from Wisconsin, Colorado, Texas, Montana, North Dakota, Georgia and Nebraska.
Don Schiefelbein, a central Minnesota native, seedstock breeder and cattle feeder became the new NCBA president. Schiefelbein and his family operate Schiefelbein Farms, a diversified farming operation in Kimball, Minn.
“I’m very fortunate to have been involved in the cattle industry through several different avenues and have seen the positive results when people come together,” said Schiefelbein. “As NCBA’s incoming president, I will continue bringing people together for the benefit of the industry.”
The 2022 NCBA officer team, approved by the NCBA board of directors, took office at the end of this year’s convention. Todd Wilkinson of South Dakota was named president-elect and Mark Eisele of Wyoming was elected vice president. Nebraska rancher Buck Wehrbein was elected chair of the NCBA Policy Division and stocker/backgrounder Gene Copenhaver of Virginia was elected policy vice chair. Brad Hastings of Texas and Clark Price of North Dakota were elected as chair and vice chair of the NCBA Federation Division, respectively.
Before returning to the family farm, Schiefelbein served as the executive director of the American Gelbvieh Association, and previously worked for the North American Limousin Association after graduating from Texas A&M University. Schiefelbein has a long history of industry service, most recently in the role as chair of the Beef Industry Long Range Planning Committee. He has also held several positions on committees and the board of directors of the American Angus Association. In addition, Schiefelbein is a past president of the Minnesota Cattlemen’s Association.
As he looks to his year as NCBA president, Schiefelbein is serious about helping lead NCBA’s fight for policies and a business climate that supports cattle producing families. It’s all part of maintaining the opportunity to make a living on the land.
During the convention, IBA executive vice president Josh St. Peters was also selected to serve the national organization. St. Peters was named to the Federation of State Beef Councils Advisory Council (FAC), which functions as a sounding board for Cattlemen’s Beef Board and NCBA leadership and work in conjunction with Federation leadership on issues supporting the industry checkoff.
“I look forward to partnering with my colleagues at other state beef councils to strengthen the work of our checkoff programs,” says St. Peters. “This collaboration is critical for the continued support our producers receive from consumers in the marketplace, and stronger programs among our state and national beef checkoffs means we will be able to continue the momentum for beef demand.”
“To me, I just sit in awe of how many people have the opportunity to do something they love to do and would love to do every day with their family by their side,” Schiefelbein said. “There’s just not many places in this world that gives you that opportunity.”
Schiefelbein plans to focus on several priorities, including ensuring NCBA members’ voices are heard as the organization continues to grow, uniting its membership and making sure NCBA is at the forefront of issues that impact the cattle industry to protect producer interests. He also plans to continue the organization’s focus on producer profitability and build upon the work in the sustainability space to create opportunities for members and their ability to pass on their operations to the next generation.
2022
NCBA president, Don Schiefelbein
Henry County Cattleman Serving at National Level
Al Lyman of Hadley Farms, continues his path of beef advocacy and leadership on the Beef
Promotion Operating Committee.
by Jaclyn Krymowski
It’s fair to say Al Lyman keeps pretty busy. In addition to operating Hadley Farms Inc. with his wife, Karen, and family in Cambridge, where they finish approximately 2,000 head each year, he shares his valuable time serving the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) in addition to active membership with IBA.
For the past three years, Lyman was fulfilling his term on the NCBA Executive Committee as NCBA Region III Federation vice president. At the recent Cattle Industry Convention in Houston, he was elected to now serve on the Beef Promotion Operating Committee.
“The rewards are hard to count,” he says of NCBA service. “They’re not financial rewards…we volunteer our time in these organizations. But the reward for me, is that we’ve gotten to become friends with great cattle people and industry leaders from both Illinois and all over the country that are involved with NCBA at all kinds of different levels.”
Over the years, Lyman has contributed on various levels, from county to state and now national. In this next role, he will help make decisions that influence the way National Beef Checkoff dollars are spent to benefit the national beef community. This isn’t his first time working on Checkoffrelated projects at both state and national levels, Lyman was on the committee decision for the Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner
300 sponsorship.
“I’m really excited about his new role,” says Josh St. Peters, IBA executive vice president. “…(Being) on the Beef Operating Committee will allow him to continue that leadership for the Beef Checkoff nationwide, but in a new capacity (now) overseeing the operations of the money and the organizations that steward our National Beef Checkoff programs.”
Getting Involved
Lyman attended Iowa State University, met wife, Karen, and spent the next few years working on different cattle operations, including his parents’ home farm, early in their marriage. His involvement in beef leadership goes back to his home state of Iowa where he served on his county cattlemen’s board and was eventually elected president.
Then, in the late 1990s Lyman and his family had the opportunity to uproot and move to Illinois and work with Karen’s parent’s fifth generation operation, Hadley Farms in Henry County. Al and Karen worked closely with Karen’s parents, Warren and Cathy Hadley, until they retired and have been running the operation ever since.
After becoming established in Illinois, Lyman became President of the Henry County Beef Association. Shortly thereafter, that lent itself to an opportunity serving on
Photo taken at Hadley Farms by Summit Engineering & Construction
the state level. With IBA, Lyman has worn multiple hats, including serving as a director and leader on the Board of Governors. By the conclusion of his tenure, Lyman was already dabbling with NCBA opportunities.
Lyman represented Illinois on NCBA’s Federation of State Beef Councils, which allows state beef councils to help build beef demand by working with the National Beef Checkoff partnership. The natural progression of such leadership, Lyman says, usually leads to requests to serve on other committees and co-chair positions. When opportunities were given to him, he accepted.
In 2019, Lyman ran for Region III vice president of the Federation and was elected. With the fulfilment of that term, he looks forward to his latest assignment.
Reaping the Rewards
An exciting part of leadership roles is the ability to take an active role and be a voice on the frontlines for the proliferation of beef.
“I feel honored to be on that board of 20 members that will help set the direction for how National Checkoff funds are spent in the coming year,” says Lyman.
At the upcoming September meeting, the Beef Promotion Operating Committee will evaluate authorization requests that contractors suggest are funded by checkoff dollars. The committee is made up of 10 producers elected by the
Beef Board and 10 producers elected by the Federation of State Beef Councils. Lyman will serve on the Federation side. From there, they can accept requests, deny requests, or adjust the amount of funding requests.
“This is a very grassroots process with several steps,” explains Lyman. “The Checkoff committees with listen to proposals from contractors, rate them and give comments. The committee is made up of beef producers like you and I. The last step of that process is the Beef Promotion Operating Committee making the final decision on how to maximize these funds. I’ve realized for a long time that we have more requests than dollars available. That lends itself to making some hard decisions on what to fund and how to work through that while trying to get 20 people on the table.”
Lyman notes that this type of service can be challenging due to the investment of time. Lyman must make sure he has enough help at home to run things during meetings and other commitments. Nevertheless, he feels it is time well spent.
“It’s interesting, you learn a lot from these other people and how they do things in different parts of the country,” he says. “I also have a list of people that I feel comfortable with if I ever have a question.”
A benefit that comes with this diversity of background is the different expertise and experience folks can contribute. Lyman believes it makes the industry stronger and better.
Cattlemen’s
“We have a lot of great things going on in the industry right now,” he says. “We’re at a 33 year high of domestic beef demand and this past year our exports broke a new record in volume and dollars. It’s a pretty exciting time.”
Preserving Beef’s Future
Lyman believes there is a place for all cattle producers, regardless of background and herd size, at the table of leadership to shape the industry. He says that early on he thought even service on the state level was beyond him, but as he became more active, he realized the opportunity was there.
“As you build friendships with colleagues in the industry, it’s not as scary as it looks,” he says. “It’s definitely a commitment, and everybody’s terribly busy, I understand that. But if you can carve out a little bit of time, the rewards are pretty great.”
St. Peters adds, “I think any time Illinois cattlemen steps up to serve on the national landscape, it will bring tremendous value. We’ve had a history of producers serving in different leadership roles in the past.”
Being a diverse state with many types and sizes of operations, he adds that Illinois cattlemen have a broad perspective and solid grasp on the industry at the national level.
“There’s a critical need for more men and women with cattle backgrounds to step up and be involved in both the Illinois Beef Association and the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association,” continues St. Peters. “I think now more than ever, our industry needs advocates to tell our story to consumers and promote our product in the marketplace. We must do our part to protect our freedoms and lifestyle in the regulatory landscape.”
He recommends interested individuals speak with their local leaders to learn more, or contact the IBA office, to learn
Al and wife, Karen
Photo taken by Summit Engineering & Construction
Photo taken at Hadley Farms by Summit Engineering & Construction
Biosecurity on the Farm What is Necessary?
by Dr. Teresa L. Steckler, University of Illinois Extension
At this time of the year, calves are born and soon the grass will be greening up. Some producers may be considering purchasing a new bull, replacement cows or heifers, while others may purchase thin cows or backgrounders to graze on spring grasses. Regardless of what you are bringing onto the farm, biosecurity should be a top concern. A biosecurity plan is designed to protect the health of your herd by preventing the introduction and possible transmission of infectious disease(s).
An infection is the invasion of an organism’s body tissues by disease-causing agents, their multiplication, and the reaction of host tissues to the infectious agents and the toxins they produce. An infectious disease, also known as a transmissible disease or communicable disease, is an illness resulting from an infection.
Infectious diseases of livestock are a major threat to animal health and welfare, and their effective control is crucial for agronomic health and for safeguarding and securing food supplies. Infectious disease can impact livestock operations in dramatic ways, like death losses and illnesses, to not-so-dramatic ways, like drains on weight gain and reproductive performance. Some livestock diseases are endemic, or those found normally in a herd’s animals, while other germs are novel or brought from outside to the farm. Novel disease issues tend to be more noticeable and impactful, as herd animals generally have no immunity to these new pathogens. Keeping novel germs out of a herd is
critically important.
The first step in any biosecurity plan is to talk to your herd veterinarian so that they can be involved from the beginning. The herd vet can become familiar with how you manage your cattle and move cattle on and off the farm. As I said in my last article…“An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.”
A biosecurity plan should cover three areas — isolation, traffic control and sanitation.
The most important step in disease control is minimizing commingling and movement of cattle. This can bring disease onto the farm. To minimize this risk:
• Evaluate the level of risk for the new cattle. Where are the cattle being sourced? Are they from a purebred breeder with a strict health protocol or are the cows from an unknown source like a sale barn? Carefully watch any animals you bring onto your farm. If you are unsure, a visit by your herd veterinarian may be warranted.
• Any incoming livestock should be quarantined for three weeks in an area isolated from your herd. Ideally, this area would be off your farm, not used for your livestock at any time.
• Always assume the livestock are unvaccinated. Mistakes can happen, and you do not want to comingle your cattle with unvaccinated cattle.
Traffic control is important – visitors, vehicles and machinery can be unintentional carriers of diseases, pests
and weeds that could be detrimental to your livestock and your business. Several simple, but effective measures can be taken to control unwanted traffic:
• Keep doors and gates locked at all times, this limits entry points onto your farm.
• Spray purple paint to outline your property boundaries and post “no trespassing” signs.
• Place security cameras in critical areas. Some new systems use SIM cards or post pictures quickly to your cell phone.
• Maintain your perimeter fences and conduct periodic checks.
• Secure pesticides, fertilizers, petroleum tanks, shops, etc. It may be necessary to have a security system on critical facilities other than camera traps.
• Develop a phone tree with your neighbors and set up a crime watch program.
• If you are selling livestock off the farm, encourage the use of protective booties to prevent transmission of disease onto your farm.
The sanitation component of a biosecurity plan is aimed at preventing contamination of cattle and equipment.
• Identify cattle and maintain current records.
• Establish an active livestock monitoring/recording program to identify potential disease, pest and weed threats. Your herd veterinarian should be able to help you develop that program.
• Watch cattle for adverse health symptoms or behavior; sudden and unexplained deaths; large numbers of sick animals; unusual ticks or maggots; blisters around an animal’s nose, teats, mouth or hooves; difficulty rising and walking; a drop in milk production; and an unusually large number of dead insects, rodents or wildlife. Contact your herd veterinarian immediately if you see these warning signs.
• Keep your farm equipment clean and disinfect reusable equipment, including tattooers, implant guns, ear notchers, dehorners and castration knives, between animals.
• Avoid fecal and urine contamination of feed and water sources.
• Remove animals that are “reservoirs” for certain diseases such as Johne’s, trichomoniasis or bovine viral diarrhea. These animals continue to shed the pathogen and infect other animals.
• Avoid borrowing machinery/equipment, and clean and disinfect equipment before and after use.
• Develop a feral animal/pest control program and record control dates and procedures.
• Develop a carcass disposal program whether that be composting, burial, or another process.
A biosecurity plan includes management practices designed to reduce or prevent the introduction and movement of infectious diseases on livestock farms. If you are unsure where to start, contact your herd veterinarian. If you do not have a herd veterinarian, now would be the time to develop a working relationship with a local veterinarian. They can help you develop a herd management plan that fits your operation. Have an uneventful calving season!
BLUE RIBBON PRODUCT
impact of cow/calf liquidation
for Illinois Cattle Producers
Drought continues to be a major headwind for the cow/calf industry. In fact, a significant 20 to 25% of the beef cowherd was in drought conditions through most of 2021. With limited and high-cost feed and roughage, continued liquidation is forecast into 2022.
by Joli A. Hohenstein
The USDA Cattle Report released in late January confirmed that cattle inventory is down 2% year over year. In addition, cattle and calves on feed for the slaughter market in the United States for all feedlots totaled 14.7 million head on Jan. 1, 2022. The inventory is up slightly from the Jan. 1, 2021, total of 14.7 million head. Cattle on feed in feedlots with capacity of 1,000 or more head accounted for 81.9% of the total cattle on feed on Jan. 1, 2022, up slightly from the previous year. The combined total of calves under 500 pounds and other heifers and steers over 500 pounds (outside of feedlots) at 25.5 million head, was 3% below Jan. 1, 2021.
Higher heifer slaughter as a percentage of fed slaughter is a solid indicator of liquidation. This percentage is expected to remain elevated into 2022, suggesting more liquidation. In addition, heifers as a percent of feeder cattle and calf movement was elevated in 2021. This indicates that more heifers are moving into feedyards, and less are being kept
back as replacements.
“Drought is the number one reason for liquidation,” says Kevin Good, VP Industry Relations for CattleFax. “By the end of the fourth quarter 2021, 40% of beef herds were in drought areas.”
Other factors working against beef producers include high energy costs, oil and gas increases, higher labor costs, low labor availability and inflation. “These headwinds will continue,” says Good. “We expect this year we will continue to liquidate.”
Something else to keep an eye on: hay stocks. “As of Dec. 1, 2021, numbers in states like North Dakota and South Dakota are down 43%,” says University of Missouri Livestock Economist Scott Brown. “It reminds me not only has the weather created positive issues, but also hay supplies could face higher hay prices as we look at 2022.”
Another concern is feed prices. The weather conditions and market changes could also “put a tarnish on feeder cattle
prices,” he says. “It’s important to pay attention to signals. Drought affects both hay and corn.”
However, all news is not negative, experts say. While the drought is not over, it is moving some, says Brown. “If we look at the percentage of Texas and Oklahoma in D1 or worse drought designation, both are 80% or worse,” he explains. “North Dakota in 2021 was 90%; it’s now at 55%. The drought appears to be moving. A lot can change between now and spring, but if we continue [a move like] the Texas and Oklahoma numbers, that’s a much more significant impact than in 2021.”
In addition, dry conditions were not as bad in Illinois when you look at the drought map. At presstime, the drought map showed the north and northwest portions of the state as the most affected, ranging from D1 (moderate) to D0 (abnormally dry). A diagonal swath from Mason to Kane County encompasses the D0 counties, while the more impacted moderate drought areas range from northern Knox County straight up through Lee and Ogle to the state line. Only small portions of Lake and McHenry Counties were
identified as D2 (severe drought).
Likewise, the state herd remains fairly steady. “Illinois is down 7,000 head from Jan. 1, 2021, to Jan. 1, 2022, so really unchanged. That’s a positive,” Brown says. “There is opportunity. Illinois doesn’t tend to stick out in a dry weather situation. It helps states like this to potentially grow cows.”
We’ve already seen higher cattle prices, and that’s another benefit. “On the positive side, calf values are moving higher,” Good explains. “We are starting 2022 with the highest calf values we’ve had, and cycles are going higher.”
Both agree there is opportunity for savvy, forwardthinking producers in areas that aren’t in drought or areas that are improving. “We’re seeing tighter and tighter supplies of cattle as we go forward,” Good says. “Because of higher crop values, there is less available for livestock. The whole herd has shrunk. But, there is opportunity from a cycle standpoint to be engaged and potentially expand because of prospects for profitability. We start the year $20 to $25 a hundred weight higher.”
Regarding producer profitability and higher cow prices,
experts are optimistic for the next two to five years. Yes, high corn and high beans take away a little from the state cow herd because farmers plant more crop acreage, but beef demand is exceptionally strong domestically, particularly at retail. Beef exports are the largest on record, by tonnage or value. That bodes well, but producers should still carefully manage their risk management, says Brown.
One tool he advocates is the Livestock Risk Protection (LRP) program offered by the Risk Management Agency (RMA) of the USDA. Described as single peril insurance, LRP policies shield producers from adverse price changes in the livestock market. Producers can choose from a selection of coverage levels and insurance periods depending on when they market their cattle. “Look at those as a way to lay off the downside risk,” Brown explains. “It provides a floor that you know. For small producers, you don’t have to do a whole contract or futures market.”
Another strategy he suggests is something cow/calf
producers already do well. Focus on genetic improvement in the herd. “Consumers are willing to pay for high quality beef,” says Brown. “Take advantage of that. It’s likely you can get paid for those genetics.”
These are just some of the strategies that can be part of a producer’s drought management plan. Adjusting (liquidating) livestock inventory may be necessary as part of that strategy, but effective growth management strategies, efficiently using existing forage resources and creative feeding alternatives can also help. The hope would be that these measures, combined with rising cattle prices, would potentially help slow liquidation.
FarmHers & RancHers:
Meet the Female Faces Shaping the Illinois Cattle Industry
by Betty Haynes
On March 8th, the world celebrated International Women’s Day. Media outlets across the world shared stories of influential women leaders from different sectors who are shaping the world in 2022.
The cattle industry is no different.
There is a long-standing tradition of family involvement on farms and ranches. Many have grown up watching their mothers work alongside their fathers humbly proclaiming the title of “farm wife”, although their role is much more than that. These cattlewomen have shaped the generations that follow - the generations of leaders, partners, farmers, spokeswomen and advocates who work hard every day to make the beef industry stronger.
Jamie Martz, Larson Farms Partnership
Jamie Martz lives in Maple Park, Ill. with her husband Justin and their three children Jaxson, Jaedyn and Justis. Jamie and Justin are third generation partners of Larson Farms Partnership, where they raise corn, soybeans and wheat while operating a custom feedlot.
“I would say the first thing our kids have learned from living on a farm is work ethic,” explains Martz. “There are no days off with livestock. Our cattle need to be cared for every day.”
Martz is from a hog farm in Lanark, Ill. where her family had a small Angus herd and a feedlot. She grew up showing cattle and tending to 4-H calves, which started her love of the industry as a child.
“Growing up on the farm I never really noticed that women were treated any different than men,” says Martz. “My mom would get up and work right alongside with my dad in the hog buildings. She also played an integral part in performing different office tasks.” Martz adds that it’s important to have female voices in the business because a diverse set of ideas creates a stronger beef industry.
Today she works in crop insurance, helps around the farm, and serves on the IBA checkoff board. Living just
outside of the Chicago suburbs, Martz offers a unique perspective on driving beef demand to urban consumers.
“We need to continually work harder to show that we are providing a safe, healthy and environmentally-friendly protein,” Martz adds. “There will always be products in the marketplace to try and replace beef. It is up to us to communicate beef’s importance.”
Betsy Pech, Pech Herefords
Betsy Pech is originally from a multi-generational grain and livestock farm outside of New Berlin, Ill. where her summers were spent exhibiting cattle at fairs.
“Ever since I can remember I had a love for cattle and hogs,” says Pech. “Every spare moment I had was spent helping with the livestock.”
Pech married grain farmer, Randy, and they started their own herd of Hereford cattle outside of Lincoln, Ill.
“I love raising cattle for the challenges,” explains Pech, as she prepares to for chores in 10 inches of snow. The most rewarding part, she says, is watching baby calves bond with their mothers during calving season.
The cattle herd kept Pech’s daughters and now grandchildren involved with the family farm. Some of her best memories have been spent at cattle shows with the next generation of cattlewomen.
“As with most kids growing up on the farm, my daughters came away with a good work ethic and my stubborn attitude,” laughs Pech. Those who know Pech, can agree that her work ethic, passion for the industry and wit are all traits to be admired.
Pech’s other passion was teaching the bright young minds of Logan County. She spent 35 years as agriculture teacher at Hartsburg-Emden school district.
“When I decided to become an ag teacher, I had no idea there were not any female ag teachers,” reflects Pech. “I jumped onto this all-male ship and never thought about jumping overboard.”
Jamie Martz
Pech recalls the parallels between teaching and raising cattle. Her students got a taste of everything from breed identification, genetics, biosecurity, and regulation. Each topic has come full circle for Pech on the IBA board of governors.
“My career allowed me to educate young people about agriculture while pursuing my passion with cattle,” says Pech. “This may sound silly but when I was teaching, cattle gave me a reprieve from the hustles and bustles of teaching. Cattle were my therapy; I could talk to them without them talking back.”
“I jumped onto this all-male ship and never thought about jumping overboard.”
Pech recalls the parallels between teaching and raising cattle. Her students got a taste of everything from breed identification, genetics, biosecurity, and regulation. Each topic has come full circle for Pech on the IBA board of governors.
“My career allowed me to educate young people about agriculture while pursuing my passion with cattle,” says Pech. “This may sound silly but when I was teaching, cattle gave me a reprieve from the hustles and bustles of teaching. Cattle were my therapy; I could talk to them without them talking back.”
Dr. Annie Ryan, Timbercrest Veterinary Services
Dr. Annie Ryan grew up in Dallas City, Ill., where her love for animals was sparked at an early age. Ryan began working at her local vet practice at age 10 and “hasn’t looked back”.
After graduating from vet school at the University of Illinois in 2019, Ryan became the large animal vet at Timbercrest Veterinary Service. She and husband, Guthrie Wyss, live on his family’s grain farm where they feed out a few steers each year.
“I love working with the people and animals that make up the cattle industry,” says Ryan. “Spending each day with people who want the best for their animals while providing the globe with a quality and delicious protein source is priceless.”
Ryan explains that practicing large animal medicine provides many challenges that can make for long and sometimes-frustrating days.
“When I can overcome a difficult challenge by putting in that extra bit of hard work, or by coming up with an innovative solution for a producer, there is truly no better feeling. Challenges push me to learn and share that knowledge with producers. Plus, delivering live, and cute, calves isn’t too bad either,” Ryan says with a smile.
The next generation of female leaders in the animal agriculture industry have been able to watch Dr. Ryan in action. From pulling calves to administering vaccinations, there really isn’t anything she can’t do. Ryan says producers should be ready to raise profitable and high-quality beef while meeting consumer demands in the coming years. In her opinion, this will likely include antibiotic regulation, environmental sustainability and consumer education on animal welfare.
“It’s definitely important for children, and especially girls, to have positive female role models in this male-dominated
Rep. Tim Butler and Betsy Pech
Dr. Annie Ryan
Larisa Willrett
Betsy Pech
Barb (sister) and Betsy Pech
Dr. Annie Ryan
Bob Ryan (father) and Dr. Annie Ryan
Jamie Martz
industry,” Ryan explains. “Seeing women in agricultural roles provides real-life representation for career paths, an attitude needed to be successful, and overall, an inspiration for ambition.”
Larisa Willrett, J. Wilrett Farms
Larisa Willrett hails from south central Montana. Her parents were journalists by trade and her mother’s family ranched. She attended Colorado State University, receiving a bachelor’s degree in animal science and master’s degree in agriculture. Although Willrett intended to pursue a career as a veterinarian, she later determined production ag was a better fit.
“Agriculture is more than a career path,” says Willrett. “It’s truly a culture based on family, community, hard work, faith and common goals. That’s what drew me in.”
After graduate school, Willrett worked in membership for what was then the National Cattlemen’s Association (NCA), where she gained a unique perspective on the inner workings of grassroots organizations.
“My boss at NCA was former IBA executive, John Butler, and he was a great teacher in terms of conveying what our purpose was,” explains Willrett. “Any truly grassroots organization is driven and guided expressly by its member leaders. That’s why I’m so honored to be able to help guide IBA as a member volunteer.”
While working at NCA, she met her husband, Jamie. They now are partners in J. Willrett Farms, a sixth-generation diversified cattle-feeding and farming operation in northern Illinois, and feedyard ultrasound business, Beef Performance Technology. Willrett is also employed with BluePrint Media, a woman-owned company specializing in media and marketing management for agriculture businesses and associations.
Their three children Justis, Olivia and Sawyer have followed in their parents’ footsteps. Each are pursuing careers in the agriculture industry and oldest, Justis, has returned to the family farm.
“I’d like to think that, through my involvement, they see that running this type of operation is a partnership,”
Meet Sheryl Hopkins, IBA’s First Female President
says Willrett. “We endeavored to raise all three of our kids, regardless of their gender, with the same expectations. Work hard, be honest, live with integrity and chase your dreams.”
Willrett’s daughter, Olivia, recently graduated from Colorado State with dual majors in animal science and ag business. After holding internships with AgriBeef and Five Rivers, she has decided to pursue feedyard business and market analysis.
“I’d like to think that raising her to believe she can do anything she sets her mind to has helped her confidence,” comments Willrett. “I have to say, I have never experienced discrimination among any of the men I’ve worked with in agriculture. Outside of agriculture – yes. And Olivia has had the same positive, supportive experience.”
Willrett’s advice to the next generation is to get an education in a field of interest, get involved and give back.
“The world is run by those who show up,” says Willrett. “Our children have been able to see the value of participating in associations like IBA and NCBA, and the long-term relationships you develop through them.”
Could you start by telling us a little bit about yourself? I was raised as a city girl with some farm background. After high school, I married a dairyman. Within the next several years, we began our family, sold the milk cows and bought beef cows. The rest is history.
How did you get involved in the cattle industry? The more my husband, Lyle, became involved, the more I did too. Promoting beef was important to our industry so I began grocery store promotions and other checkoff events. Our involvement led us to different leadership roles over the years.
How has the industry changed in your lifetime? It began as a simple life raising cattle. Today, nutrition, marketing and new technology are at the forefront of most operations.
Why did you want to be IBA President? I had been President of the Illinois Beef Auxiliary during the period when we dissolved and became part of IBA. We spent hours discussing the benefits of having female IBA members after the merger. From that point on, I became very involved. I served as a Checkoff Director, then President with hopes of improving the organization, membership and addressing industry issues. Having so many friendships, connections and a great staff made my job run smoothly.
Do you feel like it is important to have women represented in the beef industry? Women have a lot to offer the industry and often see things from a different perspective. It’s always good to have different voices working together for the same goal – a successful and sustainable beef industry.
Larisa Willrett
"Being self-employed for many years our health insurance was at an all-time high. We struggled with the neverending increasing cost & with which route to take. During a drop off of Herefords... Dara just happened to mention that she could check into some options for us. Dara came to our rescue! She researched all the factors and we determined that offering group insurance through our Carthage Livestock Inc. Cattle sale barn was the best route to go. We saved money on our premiums, and we were able to offer our employees affordable quality health, dental, vision, and life insurance. Dara goes over and above what is normally expected to help you with your questions or concerns. We are so glad we switched and let Dara take care of our insurance needs!"
Brent & Kristene Lowderman – Carthage Livestock Inc. in Carthage, Ill.
"The health insurance costs and coverages have become very difficult to navigate for anyone self-employed. Working with Dara has taken the guess work out of the process, and has been a huge savings while having better coverage than I had been accustomed to. Thank you for the help and explanations of the coverage... and thank you very much for the substantial savings on premiums."
Bob Lemenager – Lemenager Farms, Ill.
"Dealing with health insurance coverage, prescriptions and costs is mind boggling, but with Dara's assistance and expertise she was able to find the perfect coverage and premium for our family as health care costs go up. I would recommend letting her work her magic in assisting anyone with insurance coverage needs. Dara truly looks out for her customers!" Chris Utegg – AU Showstock
Photo by Abby Stier with Cindy’s Livestock Photos
Sale Results Sale Results
Seedstock breeders consigned cattle to three different sales during the Illinois Beef Expo Feb. 24-25 at the Illinois State Fairgrounds in Springfield. Cattle enthusiasts from throughout the Midwest had the opportunity to purchase leading genetics from some of Illinois’ most accomplished breeders during the Illinois Performance Tested (IPT) Bull Sale, MidAmerica Simmental Sale and Illinois Angus Futurity.
IPT Bull Sale
For 54 years, the Performance Tested Bull Sale has provided elite seedstock for cattle breeders. The 2022 sale held Feb. 24 at the Illinois State Fairgrounds in Springfield averaged $4,372 on the 46 lots sold. The sale is a multi-breed sale and offers both older age-advantaged bulls and yearlings.
The top selling bull was a yearling Angus bull consigned by Murphy’s Genetics LLP of Illiopolis. The bull, MG Monumental 4J sold for $8,500 to Lukach Cattle Company of Streator.
Two bulls commanded a price of $7,000. Keith and Brady Kramer of Kramer Farms near Farina, sold Kramer Farms Monumental 007 to Thomas Downey of Putnam. Callan Farms of Stonington sold CF Advance 720F-93J to Joe Hampton of Windsor.
“This sale continues to be one of the best sources for total performance genetics in the Midwest,” says Travis Meteer, Illinois Extension commercial ag educator and sale manager. “During the past 54 years, the sale has sold 4,905 bulls valued at over 9 million dollars.”
University of Illinois Extension, University of Illinois Department of Animal Sciences, and consigning breeders sponsored the sale. Vita-Ferm, ABS, Boehringer-Ingelheim, Zoetis 50K, Dearwester Grain, and Illinois Simmental Association provided industry support.
Producers interested in viewing a breakdown of all the prices can visit the IPT Bull Sale website. Also included on this site are numbers and averages from the previous sales.
Seedstock breeders interested in consigning to the 2023 IPT Bull Sale should contact Meteer at 217-430-7030 or wmeteer2@illinois.edu to request a copy of the rules and regulation and nomination form. Nominations must be made by Dec.1, 2022, for the 2023 sale.
MidAmerica Simmental Sale
The 2022 MidAmerica Simmental Sale, managed by DP Sales Management, LLC and hosted by the Illinois Simmental Association, was held on Feb. 25 at the Illinois State Fairgrounds in Springfield. The sale averaged $3,255 with a total of 31 consignors.
The top selling lot was three sexed heifer embryos from Canadian Donors. The embryos, JSUL Something about Mary, Rocking P Private Stock and RF Caliber, sold for $18,000 to Clear Water Simmentals in Indiana.
Next Generation Farms sold the highest bred female for $6,000 to Canadian Donors. The highest open female was from DI Simmentals and sold for $4,000 to the Entwistle family of Illinois. The top-selling bull was from Schick Haefner Cattle Co. and sold for $4,000 to Ashorn Simmentals of Illinois.
Simmental seedstock breeders interested in consigning to the 2023 sale may contact Doug and Debbie Parke at 859987-5758 or email office@dpsalesllc.com
Illinois Angus Futurity
The 66th Annual Illinois Angus Futurity was held by the Illinois Angus Association on Feb. 25 at the Illinois State Fairgrounds in Springfield. The sale grossed $76,950 and averaged $3,078 with 25 lots.
The top selling lot was an open heifer from Evans Angus. The heifer, Evans Miss Pride 17, sold for $6,000 to Richard Pitts of Utah.
The top Spring pair, Destiny Blackcap 251, was consigned by Destiny Angus Farm and sold for $5,000 to Bill Wofford of Illinois. The top-selling bull, Evans Capitalist 12, was consigned by Evans Angus and sold for $3,800 to Kurt Baumburger of Illinois.
The overall sales results are: spring pair sales averaged $5,000 per pair, bred heifer sales averaged $3,875 per head, open heifer sales averaged $3,188 per head and bull sales averaged $2,527 per head.
Angus seedstock breeders interested in consigning to the 2023 sale may contact Illinois Angus Association Sale Chairman, Grant Bedel at (309) 212-2493 or bshowcow@ yahoo.com.
All candids taken by Abby Stier with Cindy’s Livestock Photos
Show Results
2022 Illinois Beef Expo Steer Show
Springfield | February 26 | Miles Shout, Okla.
Grand Champion Steer
Champion Champion Crossbred
3rd Overall Steer
3rd Overall Crossbred
Reserve Grand Champion Steer
Reserve Champion Crossbred Steer
4th Overall Steer
Maine
5th Overall Steer
AOB
Shown by George Sinclair
Photos by Cindy Cagwin-Johnston
Champion
Shown by Jaxon Baudino
Champion
Shown by Nalaney Guyer
Shown by Kade Gensini
Shown by Adam Miller
RING A STEERS
Champion Angus
Shown by Cole Caldwell
Reserve Champion: Cohen Kirchner
Champion Shorthorn
Shown by Amber Lee
Reserve Champion: Kylie Saathoff
Champion Market Heifer
Shown by Beckett Winegardner
Reserve Champion: Paige Lemenager
Champion Chianina
Shown by Kashen Ellerbrock
Reserve Champion: Colton Foose
Champion Shorthorn Plus
Shown by Jess Hawk
Reserve Champion: Paige Hadden
Other Winners:
Reserve Champion Maine: Alex Barnard
Reserve Champion AOB: Cole Caldwell
Champion Hereford
Shown by Alex Barnard
Reserve Champion: Grace Arnold
Champion Simmental
Shown by John Lukach
Reserve Champion: Parker Lewis
Show Results
2022 Illinois Beef Expo Steer Show
Springfield | February 26 | Zack Butler, Tenn.
Grand Champion Steer
Champion Crossbred
3rd Overall Steer
Champion AOB
Res. Grand Champion Steer
Reserve Champion Crossbred
4th Overall Steer
3rd Overall Crossbred
5th Overall Heifer
Champion Chianina
Shown by Adam Miller
Photos by Cindy Cagwin-Johnston
Shown by Keegan Murphy
Shown by Kashen Ellerbrock
Shown by Kade Gensini
Shown by Nalaney Guyer
RING B STEERS
Champion Angus
Shown by Cole Caldwell
Reserve Champion: Christian Fischer
Champion Shorthorn
Shown by Josie Wiggim
Reserve Champion: Kylie Saathoff
Champion Market Heifer
Shown by Paige Lemenager
Reserve Champion: Emma Wankel
Champion Hereford
Shown by Alex Barnard
Reserve Champion: Grace Arnold
Champion Shorthorn Plus
Shown by Jess Hawk
Reserve Champion: Madeline Nightingale
Other Winners:
Reserve Champion AOB: Cole Caldwell
Reserve Champion Chianina: Tyler Lee
Champion Maine
Shown by Abby Clapp
Reserve Champion: Jaxon Baudino
Champion Simmental
Shown by John Lukach
Reserve Champion: Payton Hueber
All candids taken by Abby Stier with Cindy’s Livestock Photos
Youth Contests Youth Contests
Boone County Tops 4-H Division, Taylorville Wins FFA Division in 2022 Illinois Beef Expo Judging Contest
4-H and FFA teams from across Illinois gathered at the Illinois Beef Expo to test their animal evaluation skills in the Livestock Judging Contest on Feb. 25 at the Illinois State Fairgrounds in Springfield with more than 200 individual exhibitors competing. The contest was coordinated by Black Hawk College East-Campus Livestock Judging Team.
Youth Compete in Skillathon Contest at the 2022 Illinois Beef Expo
Youth from across Illinois gathered at the Illinois Beef Expo to test their beef cattle knowledge in the Skillathon Contest on Feb. 25 at the Illinois State Fairgrounds in Springfield.
Nick Bierman topped the junior division. Addison Tebbe followed closely in second place. The third individual was Macie Bartlow. In fourth place was Turner Tarr. Rounding out the top five was Grant Fulton. Sara Smallwood topped the senior division. Drew Mickey followed closely in second place. The third individual was Cole Paulek. In fourth place was Jack Link. Rounding out the top five was Trace Faulkenstein. The contest was coordinated by Lake Land College.
Audrey Curtin, Cole Paulek, Waylor Paulek and Drew Mickey
4-H High Individuals
Morgan Richardson, Braydon DeCounter, Kendall Boatman and Ava Johnson Not pictured: Clara Haas
Top 4-H Team - Boone County Sr #1
Morgan Richardson, Brooke Glander, Kade Boatman and Kendall Boatman
Youth Named Spirit Award Winners at 2022
Illinois Beef Expo
Two junior showmen were recognized as the Spirit Award winners at the 2022 Illinois Beef Expo on Feb. 26 in Springfield. The award showcases juniors exhibiting good sportsmanship, herdsmanship, and a strong work ethic. A selection committee took note of juniors throughout the weekend displaying those characteristics and awarded Reagan Hueber of Lee and Maddie Plante of Glenview.
Champion Show Stock was recognized as a sponsor of the Spirit Award program.
Points Program Points Program
Junior showmen were recognized as the 2022 Illinois Beef Association (IBA) Points Show Program winners at the 2022 Illinois Beef Expo on Feb. 26 in Springfield. The IBA Points Show Program awards youth for success in the show ring at sanctioned cattle shows throughout the state. Paige Lemenager of Hudson was named the 2021 Overall IBA Points Show Program winner and won a $1,000 check provided by IBA.
The Top Ten Heifer Points Show Program winners were Paige Lemenager or Hudson, Gracyn Welsh of Blandinsville, Grace Lemenager of Fairbury, Payton McGrew of Good Hope, Brooklyn Welsh of Blandinsville, Lauryn Mool of Lexington, Ashtin Guyer of Robinson, Amelia Miller of Gridley, Claire Dorsey of Moro, Jemma Dorsey or Moro and Avery Seys of Coal Valley.
The Top Ten Steer Points Show Program winners were Kashen Ellerbrock of Atkinson, Morgan Huls of St. Joseph, Brody Ingram of Winchester, Levi Hinshaw of Secor, Landrey Freeman of Winchester, Madeline Nightingale of Orion, Conor Copper of Clinton, Keegan Murphy of Seneca, Natalie Dearwester of Camp Point and Nalaney Guyer of Robinson.
The IBA Points Show Program is funding by the Illinois Beef Checkoff.
Heifer Division
Steer Division
Soy nutrition is a vital component for all Illinois livestock. That’s why Illinois Soybean Association is proud to partner with other organizations in support of livestock expansion e orts across the state, supporting beef cattle producers as they work to improve farms, grow animal agriculture, and meet global demand with homegrown solutions.
you you
CHECKING IN WITH THE CHECKOFF
Austin Hill was first to the checkered flag, and the beef, as he won the 41st season-opening race for the NASCAR Xfinity Series – the Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner.® 300. For the second year the Federation of State Beef Councils, on behalf of the Beef Checkoff, partnered with the Daytona International Speedway to sponsor the race one day ahead of the legendary DAYTONA 500.
“From the shared emphasis on family values and legacies in both racing and cattle farming and ranching, to the love of beef on the grill, beef and NASCAR just make sense,” said Brad Hastings, 2022 National Cattlemen’s Beef Association Federation Division Chair. “The partnership also provided an opportunity for the Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner. brand to be back on TV, reaching younger and increasingly diverse NASCAR fans across the nation.”
Days before drivers took to the track, beef was in the spotlight on local TV and radio stations across the country as seven-time burger bash champion and celebrity chef Josh Capon shared race day recipes. Whether tailgating or homegating, Capon’s Southwestern Slider, Bacon Onion Jam Slider, and Korean Beef Lettuce Cups are sure to get fans to victory lane this season.
The race wasn’t the only competition that got fans excited about beef. Chefs Lamar Moore, Jennifer Carroll and Ryan Clark battled it out on the grill during the Checkoff-funded Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner.® 300 cookoff judged by Chef Josh Capon and World Champion Pitmaster Lee Ann Whippen. While Chef Lamar Moore’s Beef Tenderloin with Cheesy Grits and Chef Ryan Clark’s Flank Steak ‘Street Corn’ Skewers made for delicious competitors, Chef Jennifer Carroll came out in front with her Berbere Beef Kebabs.
Throughout the week, the Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner. midway tent was a fan favorite. Free race day sliders, fans testing their skills on roping dummies, and an interactive social media photo booth provided the ultimate beef experience. Additionally, campers and tailgaters sported signs showing they were grilling beef and in return, were surprised with beef merchandise such as hats, shirts and bags.
Finally, the Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner. brand was also showcased in advertising during the race on Fox Sports 1, on the racetrack big screen and on signage throughout the Daytona International Speedway property.
STRAIGHT TALK
The Truth of the Matter
Created 36 years ago by producers, the Beef Checkoff operates daily through the efforts of a producer and importer-led volunteer board. There’s plenty of misinformation out there about the program, so here are the facts that we invite you to share with your friends, families and neighbors.
Cattle Markets
MYTH: The Checkoff isn’t doing anything to fix the broken cattle markets.
FACT: Meatpacking capacity and other economic factors impact today’s cattle markets — but that’s completely outside the scope of the Beef Checkoff. The Checkoff was created to increase demand for beef and not to influence markets. It has no power to increase the price of cattle. However, by helping generate greater demand, consumers are willing to pay more for beef and beef products and that’s the truth of the matter.
Labeling For Beef
QUICK AND EASY TRUTHS ABOUT YOUR BEEF CHECKOFF Tax or Investment?
MYTH: The Beef Checkoff is nothing more than a federally-mandated tax.
FACT: The Beef Checkoff was conceived and founded by producers and is managed day-to-day by a board of producers and importers. The cattle industry asked Congress to authorize the program to strengthen beef’s position in the marketplace. The U.S. Government never forced the industry to participate. It’s not a tax but an industry investment that serves all producers.
MYTH: The Beef Checkoff opposes mandatory Country of Origin Labeling (COOL) because it doesn’t want consumers to know how much beef at grocery stores comes from outside the U.S.
FACT: The U.S. imports less than 11 percent of the beef consumed in the country1, which primarily includes lean trimmings to make ground beef. Some producers support the process, others don’t. Regardless, by law, the Checkoff cannot be involved in political activism or lobbying, and it has no role or voice in implementing – or not implementing – COOL. That said, producers can create their own labeling or story programs for beef, as long as they are truthful and accurate in their claims and follow all labeling requirements.
Source: 1USDA Livestock, Meat and International Trade Data, 2021.
A “No-Policy” Policy
MYTH: The Beef Checkoff should push for government intervention to help producers who are struggling.
FACT: The Beef Checkoff was designed to help all producers by building demand for beef. The Beef Promotion & Research Act is clear that no Checkoff dollars can be used to influence government policy or support lobbying – the Cattlemen’s Beef Board (CBB) and USDA oversight of the program ensure that. There are Beef Checkoff contractors with legislative or policy-focused divisions, but Checkoff dollars are strictly siloed from those sectors of the organizations. Separate from the Beef Checkoff, producers can encourage policy or lobbying groups, such as cattle associations and other membership-driven groups, to help with specific tasks. Just remember: those actions are not Beef Checkoff-related.
Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner. Brand Announces Tony Romo as New Spokesperson
The former football star is partnering with the Beef Checkoff-funded brand to promote all things beef.
The iconic Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner. brand, managed by the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) and funded by the Beef Checkoff, announced a new partnership with celebrity athlete and former football star Tony Romo at the 2022 Cattle Industry Convention. The partnership, which will last one year and tap into Romo’s vast fanbase, will promote all things beef – from beef nutrition, to how beef is raised, and of course beef’s great taste.
“Kicking off this partnership in early 2022 is the perfect time to gear up for summer nutrition and grilling, spending time with friends and family and of course, tailgating,” said Sarah Reece, Senior Executive Director of Brand Marketing. “From his nutrition expertise to his love of beef and family, Romo is the perfect spokesperson for the brand.”
“I’m really excited to be your new spokesperson,” said Romo. “Me, my wife and the kids eat beef all the time and I think we’re going to eat it even more if that’s even possible at this point. Hearty and sustainable beef is my new team.”
In addition to the general consumer appeal associated with celebrity spokespeople, Romo will be featured promoting beef in photo and video advertisements on digital and traditional media platforms. Additionally, social media content will be developed for organic and promoted posts across the Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner. social channels and on Romo’s personal pages.
Illinois Beef Association
Your Checkoff Works for You
Beef Checkoff dollars paid by cattlemen go to work in the areas of promotion, research, foreign marketing, education, and more.
PRIVATE TREATY SALES CHECKOFF INVESTMENT FORM
State and National
Today’s Date
and Research Programs
Number (if known)________________________
Seller’s Name Buyer’s Name Address
Seller’s Signature Buyer’s Signature
Both the seller & the buyer are responsible for making sure that the $1 per head assessment is collected and remitted to the Illinois Beef Association
March/April 2022
President: Trevor Kuipers
Vice President: Tyler Rhode
Secretary: Aaron Schafer
Business Manager: Doug Turner
Past President: Greg McClure
Bureau County: John DeRycke
Central Illinois: Luke Lemenager
Illinois Valley: Open
Lamoine Valley: Tracy Rawlings
Logan County : Carla Jurgenson
Northern Illinois: Jarad Carroll
South Central: Richard Hurst
Wabash Valley: Keith Kramer
Directors At Large:
Tyler Rhode
Trevor Kuipers
David Jenkins
Jeff Dameron
Brent Henkel
Lee Stremsterfer
David Mool
Dan Naughton
Greg McClure
Kyle Beutke
Joel York
Grant Bedel
Photo taken at Illinois Angus Futurity Show of Parr Diesel consignment from Parr Cattle Company. Taken by Betty Haynes.
Show Results
2022 Illinois Angus Futurity Show
Springfield, Ill. | Feb. 25 | Patrick Kelly, Ill.
Grand Champion Bull
Champion Get-of-Sire
David Troy Rawlings, New Holland, Ill.
Reserve Grand Champion Bull
Parr Cattle Company, Mason City, Ill.
Grand Champion Female
Stone Creek Angus, Freeport, Ill.
Reserve Grand Champion Female York Farms, Palestine, Ill.
Stone Creek Angus, Freeport, Ill.
Intermediate Champion Heifer
Reese Anderson
2022 National Western Stock Show’s Super Point Roll of Victory (ROV) Angus Show
Denver | Jan. 4 | Jeff Dameron, Ill.
Photos by: Legacy Livestock Imaging
2022 National Western Stock Show’s Junior Angus Show
Denver | Jan. 13 | Andrew Foster, Mich.
Photos by: Legacy Livestock Imaging
Intermediate Champion Heifer
Reese Anderson
2022 Cattlemen’s Congress Junior Angus Show
Oklahoma City | Jan. 6 | Andy Higgins, Tenn.
Photos by: Next Level Images
Senior Champion Female
Paige Lemenager
Reserve Late Senior Heifer Calf Champion
Jack Dameron
Reserve Junior Heifer Calf Division 3
Christian Fischer
2022 Cattlemen’s Congress Junior Angus Show
Oklahoma City | Jan. 5-8 | Jarold Callahan, Okla.
Photos by: Next Level Images
Senior Champion Female
Paige Lemenager
Reserve Senior Heifer Calf Champion--Division 2
Jack Dameron
2022 Illinois Beef Expo Junior Show
Grand Champion Heifer Ring A
Champion Angus Shown by Reese Thoreson
Res. Grand Champion Heifer Ring B
Champion Angus Ring B
Res. Champion Angus Ring A
Shown by Paige Lemenager
Res.Champion Angus Heifer Ring B
Shown by Anne Dameron
Champion Angus Steer Both Rings
Shown by Cole Caldwell
No Photo Available:
Division 2 Res. Champion Ring A: Zoe Johnson
Division 3 Res. Champion Ring A: Christian Fischer
Division 4 Champion Ring A: Ashton Guyer
Division 3 Champion Ring B: Breckyn Bloomberg
Division 4 Champion Ring B: Ella Eathington
Res. Champion Angus Steer Ring A
Shown by Cohen Kirchner
Res. Champion Angus Steer Ring B
Shown by Christian Fischer
Division 1 Res. Champion Both Rings Shown by Macie Bartlow
Division 1 Champion Both Rings Shown by Cylee Kirchner
Division 4 Res. Champion Ring A Shown by Brayden Bartlow
Division 3 Res. Champion Ring B
Shown by Emily Brooks
Award Results
2022 Illinois Angus Futurity Banquet
Northfield Inn & Suites | Springfield, Ill. | February 25
Dr. Tamar Crum 217-820-0964 illinoishereford@gmail.com
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Randy Kline, 309-824-9937
Matt Johnson, 309-883-9466
Phil Tjardes, 815-383-0003
Brent Lowderman, 309-221-9621
Luke Goldstein, 217-663-3390
Cody Crum, 217-248-7282
Jodi McMillan, 815-751-2293
Chad Benedict, 217-246-5099
Kent Burns, 618-521-3199
ON THE COVER
Grace Arnold showing at the Illinois Beef Expo. Taken by Abby Stier with Cindy’s Livestock Photos.
CONTACT
To place advertisements or your latest Hereford news
LEMENAGER, ALLAN, BRUNS AND BARBER AWARDED TOP TITLES AT CATTLEMEN’S CONGRESS
As we started to finish the national show season, all Hereford junior exhibitors’ hard work culminated as they stepped onto the red dirt during the second annual 2022 Cattlemen’s Congress in Oklahoma City on Jan. 5. Judge Lydell Meier of Clinton, Tenn., sorted the show of 269 junior heifers.
Paige Lemenager, Hudson, Ill., exhibited the grand champion polled female in the national junior Hereford show. BOY Harley 018H ET was a Jan. 2, 2020, daughter of ECR Who Maker 210 ET and was bred by Simon Thoreson, Knoxville, Iowa.
BK CMCC Highness 082H ET received the reserve grand champion polled female honors; the winning entry was a May 3, 2020, daughter of CHEZ/PUGH/HARA Logic 8815F ET. Bred by Moore Cattle Co., Madill, Okla., this female was owned by Mason Allan of Nocona, Texas.
Blake Bruns of North Platte, Neb., won the grand champion horned female title at the 2022 Cattlemen’s Congress. H Pixie 0635 ET, an Aug. 29, 2020, daughter of H Montgomery 7437 ET, was bred by Hoffman Herefords, Thedford, Neb.
Aidyn Barber, Channing, Texas, exhibited the reserve grand champion horned female with her bred-and-owned female, BR Gabriella 0142. Her entry was an April 1, 2020, daughter of BR 124Y Travis E132 ET.
Show Results
2022 Illinois Beef Expo Junior Show
Fifth Overall Heifer Ring A Champion Polled Hereford
Illinois Shorthorn Association Fundraiser: Mark Gordon; Denise Costello; Purchasers of Donation Lot 1: “8th Duchess of Geneva”; Larry W. Wilson, Member Illinois Shorthorn Association
President’sNote
We are finally back to a bit of normalcy after an enjoyable Illinois Beef Expo. The weather tried to make it a little snowy, but it never really materialized. Thursday was the most trying day, with sleet and big flakes of snow. Fortunately, it only lasted for a few hours. Friday was a little chilly, but Saturday and Sunday turned out to be nice days for the end of February.
Thursday was the day for the Illinois Performance Tested Bull Sale. A few people had some trouble finding the new sale site, but by sale time a nice sized crowd was there. The bulls were on display in Barn 14 and then they had a video auction in the Artisans Building. The sale average was $4,372, with the Simmental bulls averaging $3,830. On Friday the Illinois Angus Futurity sale was first at noon, then the MidAmerica Simmental Sale was held at 2 p.m. This year the sales were held in Barn 13 which provided a nice, big, open area, but with that came the chill of the weather. We averaged about $3300 on 30 lots.
The Annual Illinois Simmental Association Banquet and dinner was held Friday night in the Artisans Building. After a great meal, the senior board recognized Wyatt Wright for his two terms on the board, plus Joy Drach and Shannon Welsh for the completion of their first term. Joe Webel joined the Illinois Simmental Association Board of Directors. Paul Walker gave us a report on fundraising and progress for the upcoming National Classic that we are hosting. Everything is moving along nicely for this event, but we still have plenty to do. An event of this size takes an army of people and thankfully we have a few great leaders. Next, we had some fundraising auctions. First, was the Junior National t-shirt auction. Thank you to these supporters: The Ground Up sale members, the Spangler and Lashmett families. Second, were the Junior National stall cards. Thank you to Riley Farms and Nancy Adkins for their support. Next the juniors had 10 fancy cutting boards. I was lucky enough to purchase one of these so I had a nice gift for my wonderful wife when I got home. The senior board held a semen auction to support Nationals and like always this was a huge success. Thank you to all buyers. We finished up with our directory color page ad auction. Again, it was a great success. The board was lucky enough to find an up-and-coming auctioneer. If you have never heard the one and only Mr. Chuck Lemanager do his auctioneer impression, you are truly missing out. Thank you Chuck! Also, a big thank you to Mareah and Sydney from the Illinois Beef Association for being there and taking pictures of all our award winners.
Saturday and Sunday were the junior shows. Lots and lots of kids showed their new heifers and steers. As always this is a great time to see everyone’s prospects for the upcoming show season. The Purebred and Percent Simmentals were well represented. Again, thank you to Cindy and her crew for providing us with all the pictures.
Now is a big time of year for all of our breeders. With calving season in full swing everyone is very busy. In the next few weeks there will be lots of great bull sales. Watch the beef magazine and social media for your source to find your next herd sire. Also, if you would like to buy an ad space for our breeders directory please contact me or any of your board members and we can get you set up. Do this sooner, rather than later as we would like to get the directory out hopefully by the beginning of this summer. Keep checking out illinoissimmental.com or the Illinois Junior Simmental Facebook page for announcements and upcoming events. Have a great spring everyone!
- Scott
Scott Frederick, ISA President
Show Results
2022 Illinois Beef Expo Junior Show
Grand Champion Heifer Ring B
Champion % Simmental
Res. Grand Champion Heifer Ring A
Champion % Simmental
Fourth Overall Heifer Ring A Champion Simmental
Shown by Lillian Unger
Shown by Wade Spencer
Shown by Claire Dorsey
Fourth Overall Heifer Ring B Champion Simmental
Champion Simmental Steer Both Rings
Res. Champion Simmental Heifer Both Rings
Reserve Champion Simmental Steer Ring A
Shown by Parker Lewis
Shown by John Lukach
Shown by Colt Roeder
Shown by Carter Hoge
No photo: Res. Champ. % Simmental Heifer Ring B: Kade Gensini
Reserve Champion Simmental Steer Ring B
Shown by Payton Hueber
Award Results
2022 Illinois Simmental Association Banquet
Illinois State Fairgrounds | Springfield, Ill. | Feb. 25
Breeder of the Year
Member of the Year
Builder of the Breed
Exhibitor of the Year
Dave & Pam Bramlet, Bramlet Simmentals
The Schick Chicks
Shannon Welsh
Pioneer Breeder
Curt Rincker, Rincker Simmentals
Bob Dwyer
Senior Leadership Award
Jenna Spangler
Senior Achievement Award
Junior Achievement Award
Junior Leadership Award
2022 Illinois Simmental Royalty
Luke Gilbert
Grace Lemenager
Jenna Spangler, 2021 Queen; Anna Webel, 2022 Queen; Taylor Hendel, 2022 Princess; Josie Webel, 2021 Princess
Not pictured: Rick Haefner Scholarship, Cole Glick
Ty Knodle
Purebred Breeders
Illinois Beef, printed bi-monthly, is the official publication of the IBA. It serves as the voice of Illinois’ 12,000 beef producers.