The Carolina Cattle Connection - Volume 39, Issue No. 4 (APRIL 2025)

PIEDMONTESE

Power up for breeding season with the right nutrition!

Bulls are expected to perform at their best during spring breeding season, but fresh grass alone won’t provide all the nutrients they need for stamina, fertility, and muscle maintenance. All Your Feed Needs Are Covered!

• Sustained Energy and Muscle Maintenance

• Bulls need more than just pasture

• Supplementing with high protein feeds and mineral tubs ensures they stay in prime condition.

• Fertility Support

• Proper mineral balance, including selenium, zinc, and vitamin E, is essential for sperm quality and reproductive success.

• Weight Stability

• Sudden diets shifts from winter rations to green pasture can cause weight fluctuations; a balanced transition with Performance Livestock & Feed products keeps bulls strong and steady.

THE CAROLINA CATTLE CONNECTION

Volume 39, Number 4 • APRIL 2025

The official publication of the North Carolina & South Carolina Cattlemen's Associations.

Sales & Publication Office

2228 N. Main Street

Fuquay-Varina, NC 27526

Phone: 919-552-9111

Email: mail@nccattle.com

Website: www.nccattle.com

The Carolina Cattle Connection is printed on 30 lb recycled newsprint by BN Printing in Benson, N.C.

STAFF

Manager, N.C. MILO LEWIS

Manager, S.C. TRAVIS MITCHELL

Editor & Advertising Director CASEY HINNANT

N.C. Circulation KIM BURDGE

S.C. Circulation TRAVIS MITCHELL

Material in The Carolina Cattle Connection is not to be reproduced in total or in part without the written permission of the editor. All submissions become property of The Carolina Cattle Connection, but we make every effort to return items such as photographs and artwork as requested.

The Carolina Cattle Connection is published monthly by the N.C. Cattlemen’s Association.

A complementary subscription is included with membership to each state’s association. Non-member subscriptions are $30 per year.

All address changes for NCCA members to:

The Carolina Cattle Connection

2228 N. Main Street • Fuquay-Varina, NC 27526

All address changes for SCCA members to:

The Carolina Cattle Connection

P.O. Box 207 • Saluda, SC 29138

N.C. Cattlemen’s Association Leadership

President - BRANDON BOWMAN

1st Vice President - JIM LEDFORD

2nd Vice President - JOEY CARTER

3rd Vice President - KEITH MURPHY

Immediate Past President - RYAN CLARK

Secretary/Treasurer - EVERETT JOHNSON

NCBA Policy Division Director - JOHN LANGDON

N.C. Beef Council Director - BROOKE HARWARD

Beef Board Director - BRIAN WARREN

Directors At Large

MATT POORE • NEIL BOWMAN • TODD SEE

Executive Director - MILO LEWIS

2228 N. Main Street • Fuquay-Varina, NC 27526

N.C. Cattlemen’s Beef Council Director of Consumer Information - ASHLEY W. HERRING

Administrative Assistant - KIM BURDGE

S.C. Cattlemen’s Association Leadership

President - GENE CRIM

1st Vice President - ASHLEY MILLS

2nd Vice President - HASKEL SEXTON

Immediate Past President - JOE OSWALD IV

Secretary - CAROL HENDRIX

Treasurer - ERIC SEYMOUR

Board of Directors

JOHN LEWIS, Chester • JOE OSWALD IV, Allendale

RYAN WHITEHEAD, Union • ALTON SMITH, Hampton

LLOYD BAXLEY, Georgetown • JOE DAVIS, Oconee

MICHAEL HALL, Abbeville • JOHN ROGERS, Darlington

CAROL HENDRIX, Oconee • FREDDIE LEE, Sumter

BONNIE CANN, Abbeville • ASHLEY MILLS, Fairfield

HASKEL SEXTON, Sparanburg • GENE CRIM, Orangeburg

AL McCLAIN, Anderson • ERIC SEYMOUR, Columbia

RANDALL MAFFETT, Saluda

Executive Director - TRAVIS MITCHELL

P.O. Box 207 • Saluda, SC 29138

Phone: 803-609-2828 • Email: twmitch@clemson.edu

Website: www.sccattlemen.wildapricot.org

S.C. Beef Council Executive Director - ERIN DOLL

P.O. Box 11280 • Columbia, SC 29211

Phone: 803-734-9806 • Email: edoll@scda.sc.gov

Website: www.sccattle.org

Inside Connection

SPOTLIGHT ON PIEDMONTESE

Characterization of Topcross Progenies from Hereford, Limousin, and Piedmontese Sires, by M.C. MacNeil, R.E. Short, and E.E Grings Page 12

Doing the Lord’s Work on Farm HUB, Inc. ......................... Page 16

Old Rudera Farm — A Family Tradition, by Larry Strickland Page 10

Piedmontese — All About the Breed ....................................... Page 6

Piedmontese Crossbreeding Page 11

Tenderness — What Consumers Want, by Keith Hoopingarner Page 17

MONTHLY FEATURES

Amazing Grazing, by Dr. Matt Poore ...................................... Page 20

Ashley’s Beef Corner, by Ashley Herring ................................ Page 18

Cattle & Carbon, by Alan Franzluebbers ................................. Page 30

Cattle & Forage Health, by Liliane Silva & Lee Van Vlake ..... Page 33

Clemson Corner, by Liliane Silva ............................................ Page 26

Director’s Report, by Milo Lewis ............................................... Page 3

E.B.’s View from the Cow Pasture, by E.B. Harris ............... Page 22

Focus on Forages, by Liliane Silva & Luana Zagato ............... Page 35

Have You Herd, by Keely Marlowe .......................................... Page 29

Herd Management, by Dr. Patty Scharko ............................... Page 27

S.C. Beef Council Update, by Erin Doll .................................. Page 24

The Chaplain’s Corral, by Tammy Burton ............................. Page 24

You Decide!, Dr. Mike Walden .................................................. Page 36

STAY CONNECTED TO YOUR BREED

35th Annual Yon Spring Sale Results .................................... Page 48

ABBA Executive Vice President Update, by Paul Maulsby .................................................................... Page 60

American Angus Association Update .................................. Page 42

American Gelbvieh Association News Page 64

American Simmental Association News ............................ Page 69

American Wagyu Association Update Page 82

Certified Angus Beef News ...................................................... Page 47

Common Ground, by Mark McCully ....................................... Page 38

International Brangus Breeders United Update Page 76

North American Limousin Foundation Update ............. Page 103

Red Angus Association of America Update Page 52

S.C. Angus Association Annual Meeting & Banquet ........ Page 40

S.C. Charolais News, by Georgeanne Webb ............................ Page 66

Santa Gertrudis Breeders International Update ............. Page 56

The Simmental Trail, by Jennie Rucker .................................. Page 70

WHAT’S HAPPENING IN YOUR STATE?

2025 S.C. Cattlemen’s Foundation Scholarship Recipients ........................................................ Page 80

2025 South Carolina Sale Barn Cattle Receipts Page 117

N.C. Cattle Receipts, Trends, & Prices ................................. Page 76

New NCCA Members for 2025 Page 74

Pasture Management Systems “Mile of Fence” Update ......................................................... Page 73

In Loving Memory — Recent Cattle Family Losses Page 50

S.C. Cattle Receipts, Trends, & Prices .................................. Page 88

S.C. Cattlemen’s Association 2025 Awards of Excellence ............................................. Page 79

NCBA

IS

WORKING HARD FOR YOU!

A Message from the CEO,

ABy MILO LEWIS, N.C. Cattlemen’s Association

Director’s Re port

Standing Together — Building Partnerships

and Embracing

New Beginnings

s I sit down to reflect on the recent N.C. Cattle Conference, one thing stands out more than ever — the strength of our cattle community lies in our ability to stand together.

Over a few days in February, nearly 600 attendees came together, not just to learn and share knowledge but to foster lasting relationships that will drive us toward a more prosperous future. The conference was a reminder of the importance of collaboration, but as we look ahead to the spring months, it’s essential to remember that the value of these partnerships goes far beyond the few days spent in the conference hall. It’s about the long term investment we make in the future of our operations and the strength of our entire industry.

At the core of this year’s event was a powerful demonstration of collaboration. With over 80 exhibitors and sponsors from all segments of the industry, we saw firsthand the dedication and commitment to supporting the growth of North Carolina’s cattle industry. From expert led workshops on livestock genetics and grazing techniques to the invaluable networking opportunities that allowed producers from all corners of our state to connect, the conference reaffirmed the vital role that partnerships and networking play in ensuring the continued growth of our industry. Whether working alongside local cattlemen’s associations, engaging with agricultural experts, or simply connecting with fellow producers, we are stronger when we share knowledge, resources, and support.

This year’s event was made possible by a team of dedicated individuals and partners, including the educational segments provided in collaboration with N.C. State University, and our incredible sponsors, including our first ever presenting sponsor, Piedmont Custom Meats. Their commitment, alongside the efforts of the exhibitors and the members who attended, truly made this conference a success.

However, the journey doesn’t end with the conference. As we transition into the spring months, the N.C. Cattlemen’s Association is more committed than ever to equipping our members with the tools, resources, and opportunities needed to thrive in an ever evolving industry. This season marks a time of renewal and new beginnings, and with exciting initiatives and educational programs on the horizon, now is the time to seize these opportunities. Together, we can continue to shape the future of North Carolina’s cattle industry.

As members of the N.C. Cattlemen’s Association, you already have access to exclusive resources, ongoing education, and a network of like minded producers who are all working toward a shared goal of industry excellence. But the true strength of our association lies in its growth. I encourage you to share the value of being a member with your neighbors, peers, and fellow producers. Help spread the word about the benefits that come with membership, whether it’s the ability to face challenges together, advocate for industry priorities, or ensure the long term sustainability of our collective work. The more we stand together, the stronger we become and the better equipped we will be to lead North Carolina’s cattle industry into the future.

Let’s build on the momentum generated from this year’s conference, where we saw exceptional support from over 80 exhibitors, our sponsors, and nearly 600 attendees, and keep the spirit of collaboration alive as we move forward. We are stronger together, and together, we will continue to lead the way in North Carolina’s cattle industry. As we embrace spring and the new opportunities it brings, I look forward to seeing all that we will accomplish as a united community.

Thank you for being an integral part of this journey. Let’s make the most of the exciting opportunities ahead and continue to grow stronger together.

SPOTLIGHT on Piedmontese

Piedmontese — All About the Breed

History - Piedmontese cattle originate from the Piedmont region in northwest Italy, a region that is secluded and protected by the Alps mountain range. This area was populated with an ancient European breed of cattle known as Auroch (Bos Primigenius). Other domestic European cattle, common to the more temperate climate zones, belong to the species of bovine known as Bos Taurus

Thousands of years ago, Zebu (or Brahman) cattle (Bos Indicus), which were common in tropical areas such as India and Africa, began to migrate, some of which stopped in the Piedmont region, taking advantage of the natural Alpine barriers.

These two distinct breeds, the Auroch and the Zebu, blended and evolved in the harsh and secluded mountain terrain over the centuries to become the Piedmontese breed. Today, they are truly an efficient animal, genetically designed to produce low fat, tender beef.

There are several breeds from Italy that also show the influence of this Zebu migration — these are the so-called Italian “white breeds,” but the similarity to the Piedmontese does not go further than the color.

In 1886, the appearance of double muscling in Piedmontese cattle attracted the attention of breeders, who had the foresight to recognize the enormous potential of this development. The first Italian Herdbook was opened in 1887. Systematic improvement of

the Piedmontese began around 1920, and a new herd book was set up by the Breeders Association in 1958. The Piedmontese was developed as a triple purpose meat/milk/work breed. Today, however, it is used primarily for beef production, but some cows are still milked.

Piedmontese cattle are Italy’s most popular breed, and their numbers are growing worldwide. Piedmontese can be found in Australia, Brazil, Canada, Denmark, Great Britain, Holland, Mexico, Poland, and New Zealand, in addition to the United States.

Introduction to America - The first Piedmontese in North America arrived in 1979 through an importation made from Italy by the PBL Cooperative of Saskatchewan, Canada. Additional importations throughout the 1980s added to the Piedmontese lines in North America. By the 1990s, importation of additional genetic material (semen and embryos) had dramatically increased, and there is now a wealth of bloodlines from which to select.

Characteristics - Double muscling is an inherited condition that occurs in many cattle breeds. However, it is most prevalent in only a few breeds. What makes the Piedmontese cattle different from the others? It is the C313Y Myostatin gene. A full blood Piedmontese will always carry two copies of this special C313Y Myostatin gene marker and, therefore, will always pass one on to any offspring. No other double muscle breed will carry two copies of this particular C313Y marker.

In 1997, several research groups uncovered the genetic cause of double muscling by mutations in the Myostatin gene. This gene

occurs naturally in all mammals, and its function is to restrict muscle growth. However, in the case of Piedmontese cattle, the C313Y gene naturally mutated, resulting in the enhanced development of the muscle. Muscle development in Piedmontese cattle averages 14 percent higher than in other average beef breeds. Most likely, all muscles of the body are affected to some degree, but the muscles showing the most obvious change are those of the thighs, rump, loin, and shoulder. This particular Myostatin gene mutation also helps to provide the consistent tenderness of Piedmontese beef. This added benefit is achieved through the stretching of the actual muscle fibers, making them thinner and, therefore, more tender without the need for artificial means to achieve the same effect.

Piedmontese are generally white to light gray in color, with the muzzle (including inside the mouth), around the eyes, ears, tassel of the tail, hooves, and horns being black. At birth, the coat color of the calves is a deep pale fawn. The breed is of medium size with fine bone structure. Confirmation is broad and muscular with a medium sized dewlap. The cows generally weigh around 1,212–1,322 lbs at maturity, and at birth, the calves weigh, on average, from 80–99 pounds. The average Piedmontese cow stands 57” at the hip, while bulls stand at 59” and weigh between 1,700–2,200 pounds. Piedmontese cattle dress out at a much higher percentage than that of other beef breeds. One Piedmontese bull can feed many mouths for months on end.

Piedmontese cattle are docile and highly fertile. They exhibit excellent mothering instincts, ample milk yield, and longevity, often producing for greater than nine years. Calving ease is a result of the delay in the manifestation of the muscling, usually occurring several weeks after birth. Combined with a light bone structure, this results in long, slim calves.

The milk production of the Piedmontese is sufficient to suckle the calf; this is a consequence of the multi-purpose selection applied to the breed from the beginning. Some Piedmontese breeders also use the milk for cheese production. The cheeses Castelmagno, Bra, Raschera, and many of the Tome coming from the valleys of the region Piedmonte are produced with Piedmontese milk.

Piedmontese are known for their high feed conversion and efficiency and were ranked first for their feedlot performance ratio by the Great Western Beef Expo in 1991. Higher than average weight gains are common, and in some studies, the Piedmontese breed achieved a 4.44 lb average daily weight gain.

The breed has a marked aptitude for the production of meat, characterized by an adequate somatic development. It has a good daily live weight gain and excellent adaptability to various environments, even in modest feeding conditions. Piedmontese have a broad and muscular chest, wide withers, muscular loins, a long trunk, and good muscular development of the rump and the thighs. The carcass contains little fat and has a low percentage of bone; the beef is of excellent quality.

There is a biased assumption that larger cattle breeds are more aggressive, which couldn’t be further from the truth. Aggression in cattle is usually a result of fear, learning, and hormonal state. Piedmontese cattle are gentle giants. They are treated with care by ranchers that employ low stress handling and are given ample open land to roam about, free to express their curious nature. It is a winwin situation as the cows and ranchers stay happy as they build a relationship of trust between them.

Polled status - Full blood Piedmontese cattle are naturally horned animals, as stated by the breed standards. However, the common practice of dehorning at a young age is generally conducted.

Body - The medium sized breed is fine boned. Feet and legs are clean, dry, and correct and show good, strong hooves. All meat body parts are long, wide, and muscular.

Production traits - Piedmontese cattle are calm animals with good pasture ability. They also have good fertility, longevity, and calving ease with good maternal traits. The protein containing meat is tender and fine grained with low fat and bone percentage.

General Statistics

• Early maturing and long living

• High fertility levels

• Calving ease

• High feed efficiency

• Climate adaptability

• High dressing percentages

• High cutability

• Beef with lower fat and cholesterol

All About the Breed continued from the previous page

Beef Comparative - Piedmontese cattle produce carcasses of considerable value, which, thanks to the meat potential and the low fat rates, rank in the highest categories of the EUROP classification.

The mg of cholesterol in a 100 g piece of Piedmontese beef is just 48.5 mg compared with others: beef - 73 mg, pork - 79 mg, roast chicken - 76 mg, and sole - 52 mg. (www.piemontese.org.uk)

Results from the United States Department of Agriculture’s Meat Research Center’s Germplasm Evaluation Program, comparing eleven breeds, report that although live weights of Piedmontese were significantly lighter than those of Angus or Herford sires, retail product of meat weight was greater because of the much higher dressing percentage. The unique heritable traits of Piedmontese are passed on in the first cross offspring, meaning that even a 50 percent Piedmontese will exhibit significantly more red meat with less fat and bone. The report also indicates that Piedmontese are an excellent candidate for use as a terminal sire for other breeds.

Additional research conducted by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) at the MARC Center compared eleven breeds of cattle, and the results of these studies confirm that not only is Piedmontese beef genetically lower in fat than other breeds, but it also has the lowest fat thickness, .29 inches, and the greatest tenderness, 11.0 pounds on the Warner Bratzler Shear Force test, of all the breeds in the study. Results also showed that the average Piedmontese steak was almost 70 grams heavier than the HerefordAngus cross steak (357.1 g compared to 288.3 g), which is expected due to larger ribeye areas on Piedmontese. (www.pauscattle.org)

Piedmontese cattle are prized by top beef producers around the world because of their unique genetic makeup of noticeably enhanced musculature. The natural occurrence of significant muscle mass while at the same time remaining tender without the need for excess marbling is a dream trait for every chef.

Piedmontese beef is healthier than commercial alternatives and remains higher in protein and Omega 3 fatty acids while being

consistently tender with fewer calories. The meat is lean without losing the rich, beefy flavor.

The concern about eating beef centers on the saturated fat the meat contains, but what you don’t hear the media say is the equal amount of unsaturated fat in beef. Contrary to popular belief, consuming red meat and white meat has an equal effect on blood cholesterol levels. Moderation is key when choosing your diet, and no food should be eaten in excess. We eat more oats, barley, antioxidant filled fruits, and fortified foods to combat high cholesterol, but did you know you can still have red meat on a low cholesterol diet?

It is commonly known that Piedmontese beef is leaner than conventional beef, with less marbling. Other important qualities of the beef are higher in protein and lower in fat and calories, but

most are unaware that purebred Piedmontese beef is also lower in cholesterol. USDA research shows that a 3.5 oz Piedmontese steak has 36 g of cholesterol versus 68 g for a regular steak. The nutritional profile does not lie. With nearly one in three American adults having high cholesterol, lean meat that contributes to a low cholesterol diet, like Piedmontese beef, becomes a hot commodity.

In the end, you may spend more on a low fat, low calorie, low cholesterol, high Omega 3 fatty acid lean protein that tastes as flavorful and tender as any prime beef, but some feel that you get more bang for your buck. (www.piedmontese.org)

The topic of whether red meat causes heart disease has been beaten to death by everyone you talk to at this point. Not all beef is healthy for you due to the heavy processing before being presented to consumers. That does not take away from the fact that red meat contains an abundance of amino acids, vitamins A, B6, B 12, D, E, and minerals, including iron, zinc, and selenium. Relative to caloric intake, beef is the best source of high quality dietary protein.

When you think about it, it’s obvious. We’re eating less red meat than we were 30 or 40 years ago, but the rates of heart disease,

diabetes, and cancer continue to rise. Nutrition specialist Dr. Seeman concedes that mainstream media points to skinless chicken and fish as healthy proteins, but all whole food sources, including unprocessed all natural beef, can be part of a healthy diet.

In this tug-of-war between white meat and red meat, the introduction of Piedmontese beef shakes up the whole game while keeping in mind the health of consumers. Piedmontese cattle naturally have more muscle and up to 30 percent less fat than conventional beef due to superior genetics. Currently, there is a wide selection of Piedmontese beef that qualify as the American Heart Association’s certified heart healthy. (www.piedmontese.com/about_nutrition.aspx)

It’s no surprise that grass fed beef is naturally healthier than grain fed beef due to having less total fat and cholesterol. Piedmontese cattle that are grass finished produce beef with five times more Omega 3 fatty acids and two times more conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), on top of being even leaner and more tender than grain fed beef. It’s easy to taste the difference.

Piedmontese Today - The Piedmontese was evaluated in Cycle IV of the Germ Plasm Evaluation Program at U.S. MARC. Birth weight (80.2 lbs), unassisted births (92.5 percent), and survival rate to weaning (91.1 percent) of half blood Piedmontese calves were similar to Hereford x Angus cross calves. The same was true for 200 day weaning weight. Postweaning gain, however, was somewhat lower (2.49 vs. 2.74 lb/day) and was comparable to the smaller Continental breeds. Dressing percentage (62.7 percent) was the highest of all Continental and British breeds. Fat thickness (0.31 in) was the lowest of all 27 breeds evaluated in GPE, and ribeye area (13.19 sq in) was the largest of all breeds. Percent retail product (73.4 percent) was the highest of all breeds, and weight of retail product (485 lbs) was second to the Charolais. Percent of carcasses grading USDA choice (41.7 percent) was the lowest of all breeds, except for Brahman (39.7 percent). In spite of low quality grade, tenderness as measured by shear force did not differ significantly from the average of Herefords and Angus. Research has shown that double muscled cattle, such as the Piedmontese, have a mutation in a gene known as “Myostatin.” This mutation is related to improved tenderness of the muscle. The age of half blood Piedmontese heifers at puberty (348 days) was among the youngest of all breeds. The pregnancy rate of heifers (95.5 percent) was second highest of all 27 breeds. Percentages of calves born (93 percent) and weaned (84 percent) for Piedmontese cows were higher than for Hereford x Angus cows (88 percent and 79 percent, respectively). However, the percent of unassisted calvings was slightly lower (84 percent vs. 87 percent). Calf weaning weight (498 lbs) was similar to Hereford x Angus cows (504 lbs).

SPOTLIGHT on Piedmontese

Old Rudera Farm — A Family Tradition

By LARRY STRICKLAND, Old Rudera Farm

Old Rudera Farm is a family owned farm going back three generations in Nash County. It was originally a row crop farm consisting of tobacco, corn, and soybeans. After two generations, it became a cattle farm when Larry and Marina Strickland took it over in 1996.

The farm’s name comes from a German castle in the area of Germany that Marina grew up in. We started out with commercial cattle and soon began looking for a niche in the cattle market. We researched many breeds and finally decided to try the Piedmontese breed due to its meat qualities. After producing several meat animals and eating the beef, we were sold.

Now we are still in the process of replacing commercial cows with registered Piedmontese. We currently run about 50 head of 100 percent registered Piedmontese, 15 crossbred cows, and two commercial cows. Our plan is to only have registered Piedmontese that have the double myostatin gene that makes the beef very tender.

Marina has her meat handler’s license, and our specialty is selling Piedmontese beef to the public at the Rocky Mount Farmer’s Market, selling from the freezer at home, and we enjoy promoting the breed.

Our son A.J. and his wife Kaitlin, who live across the road from us, now have their own farm under the Strickland Bar Ranch name,

and we operate together. They will be the fourth generation to work the farm. A.J. and Kaitlin enjoy showing the Piedmontese beef cattle at the Kentucky State Fair, Nebraska State Fair, and, our favorite, the N.C. State Fair.

SPOTLIGHT on Piedmontese

Characterization of Topcross Progenies from Hereford, Limousin, and Piedmontese Sires

By M.D. MacNEIL, R.E. SHORT, and E.E. GRINGS

ABSTRACT - Breeds of larger mature size tend to grow more rapidly and be older when attaining a given level of fatness. Hereford, Limousin, and Piedmontese are of approximately equal mature size and yet may vary in body composition at a given degree of maturity. However, direct comparisons among these three breeds were not found. Therefore, the objective of this research was to compare Hereford, Limousin, and Piedmontese progenies for economically important traits. Crossbred cows were bred to Hereford (n = 23), Limousin (n = 24), or Piedmontese (n = 24) sires. Male calves were either left intact or castrated at approximately two months of age. Calves remained with their dams until weaning at an average age of 179 days. Male calves were then individually fed a growing ration until they reached 851 lbs and then fed a finishing ration for either 90 or 132 days. They were then slaughtered at a commercial abattoir, and carcass data were collected. Female calves were group fed and used to examine nutritional effects on age at puberty. Data were analyzed using REML and linear contrasts among the breed-of-sire effects evaluated. Hereford sired calves had shorter gestation periods and weighed less at birth than either Limousin or Piedmontese sired calves. Calving difficulty of Hereford and Limousin sired calves was less than that of Piedmontese sired calves. Limousin sired calves tended to grow more rapidly than Hereford sired calves. By the finishing phase, Limousin and Hereford sired calves had greater average daily gains than Piedmontese sired calves. Differences in dry matter intake among breeds of sire were relatively small. Differences in carcass weight, longissimus muscle area, fat depth, and percentage of kidney, pelvic, and heart fat resulted in a clear stratification of USDA yield grade between breeds of sire. Differences in percentage primal cuts were similar to those for USDA yield grade. Hereford sired calves had more marbling than progeny of Limousin or Piedmontese sires. However, the force necessary to shear cores from steaks of Piedmontese sired calves was less than for progeny of Limousin or Hereford sires. Hereford and Piedmontese sired heifers were younger at puberty than Limousin

sired heifers. Within breeds of similar mature size and growth rate, ample variation exists in age at puberty and body composition at an approximately equal degree of maturity.

Introduction - Degree of maturity (the ratio of current size to mature size) accounts for substantial fractions of variation in both growth and body composition of livestock. Thus, differences in growth and body composition among breeds varying in mature size are to be expected when expressed at age or weight constant endpoints. Breeds of larger mature size tend to grow more rapidly and be older when attaining a given level of fatness. However, contemporary comparisons among breeds of beef cattle having similar mature sizes are infrequent, especially beyond comparisons of Angus and Hereford.

Appropriate use of breed differences is a recommended strategy for matching biological types of beef cows with production environments and for producing beef products that are consistent with consumer desires relative to composition and palatability. In rotational crossing, using breeds of comparable characteristics such as birth weight, size, and lactation potential has been advised to avoid calf losses associated with dystocia, to stabilize nutrient requirements in the cow herd, and to control variability in product composition. However, this restriction may be relaxed in exploiting breed resources in specialized roles.

\Indirect evidence suggests that Hereford, Limousin, and Piedmontese are of approximately equal mature size and yet may vary in body composition at a given degree of maturity. Therefore, the objective of this research was to provide direct evidence of comparative performance for Hereford, Limousin, and Piedmontese sired calves from birth to slaughter of male progeny at less than two years of age and from birth to puberty of female progeny.

Materials and Methods - Crossbred females, ranging in age from 1–11 years (average 3.8 years), were bred randomly by A.I. for three years to Hereford (n = 23), Limousin (n = 24), or Piedmontese (n = 24) sires. The crossbred cows were mainly ½ Red Angus, ¼ Charolais, and ¼ Tarentaise, but additional germplasm from Angus, Hereford, Simmental, Jersey, Shorthorn, Pinzgauer, and other

breeds was also included. Calving date, birth weight, and calving dif fi culty score were recorded at birth. As part of a collaborative project, male calves were randomly assigned within sire to be left intact or castrated at approximately two months of age. Calves remained with their dams until they were weaned at an average age of 179 days. During this time, all cows were managed together and grazed on either improved, irrigated pastures or native rangeland. Weaning weights were adjusted to 180 days.

After weaning, male (bulls and steers) calves were placed into covered pens with individual electronic feeding gates, with six animals per pen. Excess calves, beyond the capacity of the individual feeding facility, were fed in feedlot pens of approximately 25 animals. Bulls and steers were pinned separately. Calves were fed once each morning. From weaning to 851 lbs, they were fed growing diets and thereafter were individually switched to finishing diets for 90 or 132 days. Diets differed in either level or degradability of protein. Effects of these dietary treatments on growth and carcass traits have been reported previously. Cattle were weighed unshrunk every 28 days except when they approached 851 lbs; at this time, they were weighed weekly to determine the appropriate time to switch diets. Weighing was done in the morning, approximately 24 hours after feeding.

Longissimus muscle area and backfat thickness were determined by ultrasound scanning within ten days of completing the growing phase. Measurements were made by one of two trained technicians using an Aloka 500V realtime ultrasound unit equipped with a 6.6 inch scanning width and a 3.5 MHz linear array transducer. The transducer was placed across the longissimus muscle between the 12th and 13th ribs. Images were recorded on a computer and later measured for longissimus muscle area and backfat thickness with the AUSKey 2.0 computer software package by one of the two technicians.

Cattle were slaughtered at a commercial abattoir using standard industry procedures. Hot carcass weight was measured on the day of slaughter, and other carcass measures were taken after 48 hours of storage at 35.6°F. Dressing percentage was calculated as 100 times the ratio of hot carcass weight to live weight taken one day before slaughter. The Longissimus muscle area between the 12th and 13th sternal ribs was measured using a planar grid. Fat thickness over the longissimus muscle was taken at the 12th rib. The kidney, pelvic, and heart fat was estimated and recorded as a percentage of carcass weight. Marbling was evaluated by subjective comparison of the amount of fat within the longissimus muscle between the 12th and 13th ribs with photographic standards. Primal cuts of one half of the carcass were weighed and included chuck, rib, short loin, sirloin, and round. Meat tenderness was determined on the longissimus muscle taken at the 12th rib on the left side of the carcass. After aging for 14 days, the steaks were flash frozen and stored at 5°F for later analysis. The steaks were then thawed at 41°F for 40–48 hours and cooked to a 158°F internal temperature. After cooling for a minimum of two hours, five cores 0.5 inch in diameter were taken parallel to muscle fibers, and Warner-Bratzler shear force was determined.

a controlled gain or a stairstep gain in which periods of high and low gain alternated. Trace mineral supplementation provided additional Cu, Zn, and Mn to one half of the heifers. Additional details concerning this experiment can be found in Grings et al. In 1996, the 246 available heifers were stratified by breed of sire and within strata randomly assigned to diets containing either 1.9 or 4.4 percent fat. Safflower seeds provided the added fat. Further details concerning this experiment can be found in Lammoglia et al. Heifers were observed twice daily for estrual behavior. The occurrence of estrus was confirmed by the presence of a corpus luteum and serum progesterone concentration greater than 1 ng/mL 6 or 7 to ten days after observing estrual behavior.

Pedigree data for the Hereford, Limousin, and Piedmontese sires were obtained from the respective breed associations or, in the case of Line 1 Hereford sires, from the research database of Fort Keogh Livestock and Range Research Laboratory. The pedigree information was at least three parental generations deep for all sires. All dams were assumed to be unrelated. This pedigree information was used in accounting for relationships among animals.

Data analyses were conducted using REMLas implemented by Boldman et al. Each trait was analyzed separately, and different models were used to analyze traits measured before and after weaning, although some effects were common to both models. To account for differences in breed of dam, both models included linear regression effects of proportion of maternal heterosis, Hereford, Charolais, Tarentaise, Simmental, Jersey, Shorthorn, Pinzgauer, and “other” germplasm of the dam. The effect of percentage Angus in the breed-of-dam was set to zero by elimination of the equation from the coef fi cient matrix. A discrete fi xed effect for breed-ofsire was also included in both models. Finally, a random animal effect was common to all analyses. Analyses of gestation length, birth weight, calving difficulty incidence and score, gain from birth to weaning, and 180 day weight included additional discrete fixed effects for year of birth and age of dam by sex of calf subclasses and an uncorrelated random effect associated with dams. Analyses of traits measured after weaning and on the carcass included a fixed effect for contemporary group composed of calves born in the same year, at the same age of dam, of similar sex condition (bull or steer), and subject to the same nutritional and managerial regimen. Convergence was determined by the variance of the simplex of parameter estimates being less than 10–10. Global convergence was assumed when analyses with different starting values converged to similar parameter estimates, and no further improvement in the log likelihood was observed. The linear functions of breed-of-sire solutions for Hereford vs. Limousin, Hereford vs. Piedmontese, and Limousin vs. Piedmontese were computed in the converged analyses.

Results and Discussion - Sampling of sires is a critical issue in breed evaluation. The Limousin and Piedmontese sires were sampled from their respective breeds without regard to pre-existing genetic information. The average additive relationships among Limousin and Piedmontese sires were 0.9 and 8.2 percent, respectively. Seventeen of the Hereford sires used came from the Line 1 Hereford

After weaning each year, female calves were used in experiments examining nutritional effects on age at puberty and subsequent breeding performance. In 1995, the 208 available heifers were blocked by breed of sire and randomly assigned within blocks to one of four treatments. The feeding protocol provided for either Topcross Progenies continued on the next page

Topcross Progenies continued from the previous page

population of Fort Keogh Livestock and Range Research Laboratory. The remaining six Hereford sires included both horned and polled germplasm that was widely available for use in artificial insemination. The average additive relationship among the Hereford sires was 31.0 percent, which is approximately one half the average additive relationship among contemporary Line 1 Hereford cattle. Line 1 has made a substantial genetic contribution to the U.S. Hereford population. However, to the extent that the sample of Hereford used here was not randomly drawn from the U.S. population, caution is advised in making broad inferences characterizing Hereford.

Shown in Table 1 are the numbers of observations, average levels of performance, and indicators of variability for the traits measured in this evaluation. Although the number of observations is sufficient to provide adequate power of the test for comparisons among the breeds of sire, they are hardly sufficient to precisely estimate heritability. This situation is most acute for postweaning and carcass traits. Heritability estimates are presented merely to provide an indication of the average level of variation among sires within the breed in these data. Phenotypic CV for indicators of growth were from 11.1 percent for 180 day weight to 19 percent for average daily gain during the fi nishing period. For the carcass traits indicative of mass, the CV ranged from 5.3 percent for hot carcass weight to 6.1 percent for primal cut weight. Indicators of fatness were more variable, with CV from 13.4 percent for marbling score to 36 percent for fat depth.

Contrasts among the breeds of sire solutions for calving traits are presented in Table 2. Hereford sired calves had shorter gestation periods than either Limousin or Piedmontese sired calves, which were similar. Breed of sire effects on birth weight were similar to those on gestation length. However, calving difficulty was similar for Hereford and Limousin sired calves and less than for Piedmontese

sired calves. The results observed here for Hereford and Limousin are qualitatively similar to those observed in characterizations of these sire breeds in New Zealand and at the U.S. Meat Animal Research Center. In slight contrast to the present results, Cundiff et al. found Piedmontese sired calves had similar birth weight and incidence of calving difficulty, despite a longer gestation period, relative to the average of Hereford and Angus sired calves. Direct comparisons of calving traits expressed by Limousin and Piedmontese sired calves were not found. Collectively, the results indicate little cause for concern associated with incompatibility in calving traits among these breeds, contraindicating their use in rotational crossbreeding programs. However, segregation of alternative alleles at the myostatin locus with major effects on birth weight and calving dif fi culty in F-2 Piedmontese crosses makes Piedmontese better suited to use as a terminal sire breed than in rotational crossing.

Differences among progeny of Hereford, Limousin, and Piedmontese sires in gain from birth to weaning were relatively small but became larger as the calves grew older. Limousin sired calves tended to grow more rapidly than Hereford sired calves. By the finishing phase, both Limousin and Hereford sired calves had greater average daily gains than Piedmontese sired calves. Thus, Limousin sired calves reached 851 lbs at a younger age than Piedmontese sired calves. Both Hereford and Limousin sired calves were heavier at slaughter than Piedmontese sired calves. The similarity in growth rate of Hereford and Limousin sired calves seen here is consistent with earlier reports in the literature, as is the reduction in growth rate and final weight of Piedmontese sired calves relative to Hereford sired calves. Hoving-Bolink et al. found Piedmontese sired calves also weighed less at slaughter than Limousin sired calves, although the breed effect was confounded with one half the

individual heterosis being expressed by Piedmontese crosses and full individual heterosis being expressed by Limousin crosses. Differences in dry matter intake among breeds of sire were relatively small. This may result because differences truly do not exist. However, the measurement of individual feed intake may be subject to greater experimental error than other traits, and the number of observations was substantially less than that of other traits. Differences in dry matter required per unit of weight gain were consistent with differences in growth during the respective feeding periods. In experiments conducted in the United Kingdom and at Clay Center, Neb., Limousin sired calves were less efficient in converting feed to live weight gain than Hereford sired calves when carried to fat constant end points. However, to weight or age constant end points, Limousin sired calves were more efficient than Hereford sired calves. The endpoint used in the current study, while neither strictly age nor weight constant, more closely resembles a weight (CV of slaughter weight = 4.9%) or age (CV of age at slaughter = 5.3%) constant end point than a fat (CV of fat depth = 36.0%) constant end point.

Live weight at slaughter was less for Piedmontese sired calves than for either Limousin or Hereford sired calves, which were similar. However, due to differences in dressing percentage, Piedmontese and Limousin sired calves had similar carcass weights and were heavier than Hereford sired calves. Longissimus muscle area was greater, and fat depth was less in Piedmontese sired calves than in either Limousin or Hereford sired calves. Likewise, longissimus muscle area was greater and fat depth less in Limousin sired calves than in Hereford sired calves. Piedmontese sired calves also had less internal fat than either Hereford or Limousin sired calves, which were similar. These differences in carcass traits resulted in a clear stratification of USDA yield grade between these breeds of sire. Differences in percentage of primal cuts mirrored differences in USDA yield grade. Even when carried to fat constant end points in other trials, edible product yield from carcasses of Limousin sired calves has exceeded that of Hereford sired calves. Cundiff et al. also found offspring of Piedmontese sires to be leaner, to have greater longissimus muscle area at a constant age, and to produce more retail product at a constant level of fatness than progeny of Hereford sires. In a direct comparison of Piedmontese and Limousin sired bulls and heifers, the progeny of Limousin sires had more subcutaneous and intramuscular fat than the progeny of Piedmontese sires.

Hereford sired calves had more marbling than progeny of either Limousin or Piedmontese sires, which were similar. However, the force required to shear cores from steaks of Piedmontese sired calves was less than that needed for steaks from progeny of Limousin or Hereford sires. The force required to shear steaks from progeny of Hereford and Limousin sires was similar. Contrasts of Piedmontese progeny vs. Limousin progeny, Piedmontese progeny vs. Hereford progeny, and Limousin progeny vs. Hereford progeny indicated similar tenderness of the longissimus muscle among these breeds of sire.

The liver may account for 20–25 percent of an animal’s total energy expenditure. It is also readily obtainable and easily weighed at slaughter. Thus, liver weights are used here as an indicator of maintenance energy requirements. However, differences in body composition and associated differences in tissue requirements also complicate definitive inferences relative to maintenance requirements. A tendency for the liver weight of Limousin sired progeny to exceed

that of Hereford sired progeny was noted. Otherwise, liver weights were similar for progenies of these breeds of sire.

Hereford and Piedmontese sired heifers were younger at attainment of puberty than Limousin sired heifers. The differences observed between breeds in the present study are qualitatively similar to those observed previously. It is noteworthy that longissimus muscle area and percentage of primal cuts of F-2 50 percent Piedmontese steers and heifers without the Piedmontese mutation at the myostain locus were more similar to Hereford than to Limousin. Thus, the genetic relationship between leanness and age at puberty may result from the polygenic background, whereas the extreme leanness of Piedmontese results primarily from a mutation at the myostatin locus. However, the implied antagonism between leanness and age at puberty is not absolute. Dual purpose breeds that have a history of selection for milk production reach puberty at a young age, and yet they are also relatively lean.

Implications - Within breeds of similar mature size and growth rate, ample variation exists in body composition and age at puberty at an approximately equal degree of maturity. This contraindicates use of these breed resources in rotational crossbreeding systems. Limousin and Piedmontese germplasm may be best exploited as terminal sires without creating problems with excessive birth weight, calving difficulty, and resultant neonatal mortality in crosses with British breeds, such as Hereford.

Reprinted from

SPOTLIGHT on Piedmontese

Doing the Lord’s Work on Farm HUB, Inc.

Keith and Bitsy Hoopingarner started their farm, Farm HUB, Inc., in March 2020 in Franklin, N.C., in the western part of the state with their son Joshua and his wife, Courtney. They raise Piedmontese cattle for beef and seedstock and Royal White sheep for lamb and seedstock. Keith and Bitsy will tell you about their vision for their farm and why they are raising Piedmontese cattle.

The following are some questions asked of Keith and Bitsy about their farm:

Keith, what were your reasons for starting a farm at this stage of your life? “Bitsy and I had moved to Franklin to be part of a church and to help with the church and the community. During that time, as I read my Bible, I kept reading about the land and that God desires to heal the land. So we prayed over the land in Macon and Rabun counties. We then went to Florida to look after Bitsy’s mother, who was battling dementia, and then my father, who had a stroke. One

day, as I was reading in 1 Corinthians 15, I read verse 46, which speaks of first the natural, then the spiritual. It was a “wow” moment. I said, “Lord, are you talking about healing the physical land?” So we changed our focus and started looking at the land, naturally. I had some health trials, along with caring for my dad’s health. In this process, I believe the Lord was showing me that our land needs to be healed so that the plants can be healthy and, in turn, the animals and then the people. I have never read in the Bible about retirement — so that is why we decided to start a farm at this stage of our lives.”

Bitsy, what steps did you take during the health trials that brought you to where you are today? “Keith and I started educating ourselves on eating a more healthy diet. We learned about avoiding pesticides and herbicides found in much of processed food these days. We started cutting out sugar and unhealthy carbohydrates. We read a book called “The Maker’s Diet” by Jordan Rubin, which taught us how to make more healthy choices with our food. Grass fed and grass finished beef is a healthy choice as you look at the Omega 3 to Omega 6 ratio. It has more Omega 3, which is what our bodies need.”

Keith, why did you choose the Piedmontese breed of cattle? “After months of research studying different cattle consultants’ guidelines and reading numerous cattle books, I made a list of what we wanted in our cattle. Piedmontese checked about all of our wants.

“I talked with numerous farmers/ranchers who raised Piedmontese. I asked a medical doctor who raises Piedmontese why he chose the breed. He said he had six children and wanted them to have healthy food. He also lifts weights as a hobby, and the high protein, low fat, low cholesterol that this meat offered made his decision “a no brainer!” He said it was the healthiest meat one could find, and the only meat to rival it — not to do better, but to rival it — was wild caught deep sea fish.

This conversation really impacted me. We still hadn’t eaten any Piedmontese beef at this point but found a company in Nebraska, Certi fi ed Piedmontese, that shipped grass fed and fi nished Piedmontese. We ordered a box of steaks that were grass fed and finished. When we received the meat, we had a family get together with our three children, their spouses, our grandchildren, and my dad. Beforehand, I told everyone that we wanted their honest opinions about the meat’s tenderness, fl avor, and texture, as we would be investing a lot of time and money into our decision on which breed to go with. After eating the steak, they all said it was the

best steak they had ever eaten. This was the final check on our list.

“So to list a few of the items on our checklist — good forager with good conversion rate; meat from a grass fed and grass finished beef that was tender, flavorful and with good texture; good maternal instincts; good fertility; a temperament that would allow close working for pasture rotations; fine bone and elastic skin that are tenderness indicators; dark pigment to combat sun damage and pinkeye; a white coat to help with heat stress and continue foraging when dark cattle are looking for shade; a high dressing out percentage, availability of semen from bulls that were linearly measured to go with our planned A.I. program. (We can purchase semen from Anaborapi in Italy, which has a fantastic bull testing program, as well as other breeders here in the United States.)

“When we found out that Piedmontese meat was naturally tender, flavorful, low in cholesterol, low in calories, lean, and high in protein, I knew this would be a great help in the finishing of the grass fed and finished cattle for processing, as it would be hard for me to mess it up.”

Bitsy, what does a day on your farm look like? “Because we are only a few years into farming and small, we can be up close and personal with our herd. We check on all our animals, including sheep, livestock guardian dogs, and especially new calves. Every new calf is tagged, weighed, and a DNA sample is taken.

“We do rotational grazing, and our cattle are moved to new paddocks every day with fresh, clean grass. After we check on everyone and feed hay if needed, we make new paddocks. The rest of the day

we work on fencing or whatever project we have at the time. Around 4:00 p.m., we move the cows. They know the routine and look forward to their move. Many times they will leap or jump as they come into their new paddock. After moving their water tubs and mineral box, we take down old paddocks, check the electric fence voltage, and head for home. Our mineral box has 20 bins of free choice minerals, vitamins, and kelp with sea salt, so the cows can get what they need. It is amazing, as they know what they are lacking and will go for that mineral. We have finally reached the point where we are selling some seedstock heifers, cows, and bulls, and we have beef for sale.”

Do either of you have any final words? Bitsy — “We are very grateful to have discovered the Piedmontese breed, and we are enjoying our healthy, tender, delicious grass fed beef!”

Keith — “We are grateful for the Lord’s help and guidance in this journey. There are many people along the way that have been very helpful. I would encourage all cattle producers to check out Amazing Grazing with Johnny Rogers and Dr. Matt Poore of N.C. State University. I believe that all of us want to see the land healed. I am amazed at the opportunity we have been given and the call. I am thankful that healthy meat doesn’t have to taste bad or be tough. The Piedmontese breed is naturally tender, naturally healthy, and naturally flavorful due to their unique God given genetic makeup. I am thankful for finding out about this breed and now being able to work with them. Thank you all for allowing me this opportunity to share with you about the cattle breed, Piedmontese.”

ASHLEY’S

 BEEF CORNER 

Our Future is Bright

By ASHLEY HERRING, N.C. Cattlemen’s Beef Council

Ernest Hemingway once wrote, “When spring came, even the false spring, there were no problems except where to be happiest.” He must have written this specifically about North Carolina. We enjoy the first warm days of March and are lulled into believing that spring will come early, usually before the blustery arrival of a cool wind and at least a week of chilly temperatures.

While February’s weather attempted to affect our annual conference, the event went off without a hitch, thanks to many unsung heroes. Our team of collegiate interns each made their way to Hickory in less than desirable conditions, but nothing could stop their commitment to the event.

I am grateful for the dedication of each of these individuals and believe the shaping of our industry in the years to come is in good hands.

These future leaders in agriculture are currently involved in a range of studies, including graduate school in reproductive animal science, food animal scholars, future veterinary medicine school attendees, animal science undergraduates, and more. I have no doubt that their passion for the cattle industry will land them in unique and highly engaged positions. When most would have said no, this group not only said yes, but how much more can we do to help? Our hats are off to them!

The ten participants in the N.C. Beef Ambassador Program were recognized and presented with their belt buckles at the N.C. Cattle Conference. Their advocacy for beef year round resulted in countless conversations that reassure consumers and increase trust.

With a combination of in-person events on both the community level and statewide, along with social media posts, their efforts drive

beef demand. Often, their peers are those who are most curious about beef and seek to learn. Adults are also eager to listen and learn from a young person with confidence and expertise in the beef industry. We are proud of their efforts and already have a few past participants seeking to continue their contribution to beef advocacy. If you know of a good candidate for the N.C. Beef Ambassador program, please contact me at Ashley@nccattle.com I

Intern team - Parker Riley, Allyson McCarty, Maggie Love, Alex Berdecia, Emily Oberman, and Madelyn Young.

Beef Ambassadors - Caroline Edwards, Chaney Leonard, Ellie Shuping, Addison Sprinkle, Leelee Votaw, Emily Oberman, and Aubrey Mekus. Not pictured - Isaac Elks, Anna Hering, and Rachael Cheek.

 AMAZING GRAZING  A Tale of Two Buttercups

By DR. MATT POORE, N.C. State University

One of the signs of spring is the beautiful buttercups that adorn the roadsides, pastures, and cropland. While to the casual viewer, they really give the world a pretty yellow glow in early spring, to an experienced forage manager, they are clearly one of our most common and troublesome weeds.

Buttercups are non-native plants that are very opportunistic at taking hold wherever there is bare ground in pastures. They are very common in hay feeding/sacrifice areas, around waterers, and everywhere in pastures that have been damaged due to animal impact during wet times or due to overgrazing. The plants are very quick to set seed, so by the time you see the first yellow, there are literally only days left until they have set seed to provide for a good population the next year. So, if your pastures are really yellow each spring, and you don’t do anything about it, it is unlikely that you will ever have much of a break from their impact. Sometimes you read that buttercups are an indicator that something is off in the soil, but this really isn’t true. Buttercups will be found wherever there is buttercup seed and bare ground where they can get established.

Buttercups can cause several problems, but the most significant is lost forage production during a time when it is needed the worst. The buttercups mostly germinate in the late autumn and then develop over the winter, at which time they scavenge the nutrients that become available, limiting the amount available for desirable plants. The buttercups are bitter to grazing livestock, so they try to graze around them, and this leads to poor pasture utilization. Buttercups are also mildly toxic, but any

poisoning of animals is rare unless buttercups are all there is to eat.

The best way to control buttercups is to spray them when they are small during the winter. Spraying in our region in December is a good practice, but they can be sprayed anytime from December through March before the flowers develop, as long as the weather has been warm (high temperature over 60ºF) for several days before spraying and for several days after. The later you wait and the bigger the plants get, the harder they are to kill. Wintertime spraying is also a good practice because there are few sensitive crops or other plants growing at that time that might be damaged by drift or volatilization. Once you spray for a few years and the seed production is under control, doing something to encourage more vigorous forage growth on the infested areas will help inhibit future populations. Some areas, such as holding pastures and hay feeding areas, will be prone to infestation and often need to be sprayed each year.

I have always had pretty good luck controlling buttercups at home. There are areas on our farm that grow a good crop each year if we don’t spray, so we watch for the first opportunity to spray them with 2-4 D at about 1.5 pints per acre. This has been very successful for us and is especially positive because that rate will not kill white clover but will just suppress it for a few weeks. In normal years, by late spring, we have great stands of grass and white clover on areas that used to be a sea of yellow.

For the last several years, we have killed some of our fescue pastures, and after a few years of annuals, we are establishing novel endophtye tall fescue. This practice has really helped us balance our forage system and provide very good quality grazing for our growing and finishing steers and heifers, but it has also led us to a whole new range of weeds and other management challenges. One weed we have struggled a little with is buttercups, which seem pretty persistent in our winter annual pastures. We grew mixed annuals (Ray’s Crazy Mix) that included crimson clover, winter pea, and hairy vetch on these pastures for several years, which means we had to let the buttercups live and make seed.

As we have started preparing these pastures for planting back into non-toxic fescue, we have started to work to get the weeds better under control. Several winters ago, we planted a mix of ryegrass and triticale so we could spray for buttercups, shepherd’s purse, and other annual broadleaf winter weeds. In the early spring, we sprayed with our usual rate of 1.5 pints per acre of 2-4 D (with nonionic surfactant), but as sometimes is the case, our sprayer was not quite putting out the desired rate, and we were closer to 1 pint per acre. I was not too worried because, in the past, we have had nearly 100 percent buttercup and

Hairy buttercup (right) and bulbous buttercup (left).

shepherd’s purse control from 1 pint per acre. However, as we walked the pastures after spraying, we saw smaller pale green buttercups that were very curled and broke off at the crown when pulled on, indicating they were completely dead. The shepherd’s purse was burned down and nearly completely killed as well. However, there were some large, dark green buttercups that were only slightly curled, showing very little damage. Another walk a few weeks later showed those dark green, big buttercups had totally recovered and were starting to bloom, while the other smaller plants were completely dead.

I didn’t think too much about that experience and wrote the failure off to the low rate of 2-4 D and the large size of the plants. As you might expect, after planting our ryegrass and triticale this past fall, we saw the buttercups germinating and planned to do a better job this year. We also saw some larger dark green plants that we assumed were the earliest to germinate. Despite their darker green look and larger size, they were still pretty small and not flowering, so we felt pretty good about the situation. This time, we sprayed 2 pints per acre of 2-4 D in late February.

An adjacent field had the buttercups present but also had a lot of chickweed, so we decided to spray that field with 2 pints per acre of Weedmaster — a mix of 2-4 D and Dicamba. After a week, we walked the pastures and found that in the one that got the 2-4 D only, we had 100 percent control of the small, brighter green buttercup and shepherd’s purse, but the darker green, more robust looking buttercups were only slightly damaged, much like the year before. In the pasture where we sprayed the Weedmaster, we had good control of the small buttercup, shepherd’s purse, and chickweed, and to our surprise, very good control of those larger dark green buttercups.

I was walking the pastures with my nephew Noah, thinking about the situation, and it dawned on both of us that there was something very different about those robust buttercups. I started doing some reading to try to get to the bottom of it. What I learned was that while there are dozens of species of buttercups (Ranunculus species) in the southern United States, there are two that are prominent in our pastures — hairy buttercup and bulbous buttercup. They look very similar, but the bulbous buttercup is darker green and has the ability to store energy reserves in a corm (a bulb) at the base of the plant at the end of flowering. It is a perennial! The hairy buttercup has no such bulb storage organ, so it is strictly an annual. To be sure, the bulbous buttercup makes a lot of seed, so it still can act as an annual, but I realized that those well established plants were the ones that were surviving over the summer, giving a very early and strong start the following season. Once the plants start to elongate to flower, the leaves of the hairy buttercup remain lobed, looking

similar to the basal leaves, while the bulbous buttercup has different, more simple leaves on the flower head compared to the basal leaves.

What we observed in our pastures was similar to what I learned from reading. The hairy buttercup is very easily killed by a low dose of 2-4 D. The bulbous buttercup, however, is a much more difficult plant to kill, even with higher rates of 2-4 D, so it requires an additional chemical such as dicamba (in Weedmaster) or aminopyralid (in Grazon Next HL) to get a good kill. Our poor results with 2-4 D and much better results with Weedmaster confirmed that this buttercup control issue is a little more complicated than I have always thought. Eventually, it took spraying with Duracor to get full control of those bulbous buttercups.

The take home message from this is that it is critical to identify and understand the weeds you are dealing with. Getting the herbicide put on in a timely manner is critical, but having the right chemical in the first place is also a critical step. As you walk your pastures this month, look for the yellow flowers, ask yourself if you have a buttercup problem, what the major species are, and how you plan on controlling them next year. Doing a little digging and looking at the roots will help you identify if you have only hairy buttercups or perhaps a mix of hairy buttercups and the harder to kill bulbous buttercups.

Bulbous buttercup — note the morphology of the leaves on the flower stalk.

Close up of the base of bulbous buttercup (left) and hairy buttercup (right).

E.B.’ s VIEW FROM  THE COW PASTURE  Sometimes A Yellow Bucket Does Wonders

By E.B. HARRIS, Warrenton, N.C.

Ireceived a phone call recently. On the other end was the animal controller officer from about two hours away from here in Virginia. This animal control officer called about a month ago about this ongoing situation. The officer went on to explain to me that the owner of the cows that were out that she had called me about had passed away, and his sister was going to call me about getting the cows ups.

Within a few hours, the sister called and explained the situation. She said her brother passed away last week, and she thought there were 20 head of cattle. She was still dealing with the loss of her brother, which was understandable, and this situation had been dumped in her lap. The responsibility for the cows was now on her. The cows were going and coming. It seemed like the electric fence had been compromised a lot with deer running through it. These cattle knew their way around. I could tell the urgency in her voice, and I told her I would be there in the morning, which would be Tuesday.

The weatherman had predicted rain before noon on Tuesday. On Tuesday morning, I hooked up the gooseneck corral and headed out to Virginia. I was about 30 minutes from arriving at her place when she called me. She said, “Mr. Harris, I have ten of the cattle in the shelter, but I don’t have a gate here to keep them in. The others are standing close by, so do I need to get some feed and try to feed the others in?” I said, “No, ma’am. Keep what you have got in there.” She then asked, “How do I keep them in?” I told her to stand there in the gateway and just act like a gorilla. I could hear her every now and then saying get back cow, get back. She did like I had asked.

On Monday night, I contacted a couple of friends with cattle who lived close by the lady’s farm who I knew could help, as well as another neighbor who had been trying to send the cattle back home when they were getting out. We met on Tuesday morning at the backside of the farm. We had to cross another landowner’s property to get in this way because it was not conducive to come in on the other side. The path was too muddy. She had called me back and said if someone could pick it up, she had three bags of sweet feed in the back of her car at such and such location. I called the neighbor, and he got the sweet feed.

I was following the neighbor across the field. He had picked the high spots because it had been fairly damp where we were going.

When we got to the barn, she had those ten cows in the shelter. We immediately found another gate to put where she was standing to relieve her from having to stand there to keep the cattle in the shelter.

We backed the corral in, set it up, and opened the other side of the corral. I looked out and there was a bull, two cows, and eight calves all the way from a day old to three hundred pounds standing out across the way. They were watching all of this commotion. There were two other cows that they called pets in the next field that had been there for quite some time and I knew would be easy to get in.

We got the cows that were in the shelter through the corral and found some feed troughs. We put two feed troughs in the side that was empty and poured in a bag of feed. By this time, the cattle on the outside had seen enough to know that it was time to vacate the premises.

I suggested to the lady that we get in the truck and ride around the farm a little bit to see if we could see them. The neighbor who had been sending them back home all the time said he was going across the swamp over to the next farm where he had been seeing them.

We rode around but did not see any cattle, but shortly the

neighbor called back and said the cattle were over on the other side of the swamp. He was going to head them back home. We sat back and were probably about 100 yards from the corral, and it started to rain and was getting really wet. The lady said to me, “Mr. Harris, will you make sure if those cows stay here tonight that they get to go back under that shelter?” I said, “I surely will.” She said, “You promise?” I said, “I promise.”

We were sitting there talking about things in general, and in a few minutes, here comes the bull, a cow with a little calf, one more cow, and seven more calves. They came within about 40 yards of the corral and locked down. It was drizzling rain. She said, “Let me go over to the corral and put some feed out with that yellow bucket. I think they will come in.” I said, “Let’s just sit here a few minutes and see what happens. “

You know, cattle see us sometime as a threat when we are out on foot. If you are in a truck or tractor, sometimes they don’t see you as a threat and will go ahead and do what they want to do and kinda are at ease. This one cow with the little baby was just up front a little bit. She was the cow leading the other ones that went off earlier.

After about five minutes, she said, “Let me try that yellow bucket.” I said, “Ok.” I drove her up to the corral. She got the yellow bucket that we had left in the corral and dipped some feed out of the trough. Then she banged that bucket on the trough and held it up high over her head. I drove up to the corral and got her back into the truck.

The cows could not see her from where they were located, but you and I both know that cows have ten times better hearing than we do. They could hear her banging that bucket. I could tell that the smokey cow had her attention in the corral. We backed up about 40 yards, and by the time we got backed up, that smokey cow started putting her nose up in the air. She could smell that sweet feed and came and stood right by the corral. She did not go right in, but stood there a minute or two, and then finally went in. It was only a minute when the bull came and went in. After another minute, the other cow came and went in.

I drove the truck up and sealed them off. That left the eight calves out, but that did not bother me. The two pet cows were also right by the corral on the other side of the fence and were as easy as could be. I knew the calves were not going to leave the cows. I called the other people who had been helping me, and we got all the cows moved to one side. In a few minutes, we got the calves and two pet cows moved in and loaded.

By this time, another neighbor had brought in a good size gooseneck and one tag along trailer. We got them all loaded. It was raining pretty good, and everything was wet. At this same time, I noticed the neighbor who had brought the cattle across

the swamp had come back on his truck. He had put the two bags of sweet feed on the back of my truck. I noticed while we were loading the cattle, the lady got the bags of sweet feed and put them in the cab of my truck.

She came back by where we were loading the cattle and said, “Mr. Harris, will you make sure the cows get those bags of feed?” I said, “Yes, ma’am. I will give them one bag tonight and another one in the morning.” She said, “I appreciate it.” We had everyone loaded and the calves separated, and she said, “Mr. Harris, will you make sure that little calf gets to his mother so it can get some milk? That’s a young calf, and it won’t live if it does not get some milk?” I said, “When I get home, I will make sure they have shelter in my barn and the calf can get to his mother.” She thanked me.

The other neighbor who I had not seen before, and actually crops the land, had come with a 4-wheel drive tractor, and thank goodness he came. He got the other two trucks and cow trailers pulled out to the black top and then came back and got me. I was hooked to the corral and ready to go. The tractor did not spin down, but it spun, and my 4-wheel drive truck spun the whole time going across the crop land to get back to black top. It was about ¾ mile across the field.We got back to my friend’s house, and he has a big barnyard. Barry had gotten there with the big trailer, and we backed up the trailers to my trailer. We put the calves on first in a separate section of the trailer, then put the bull and cows on the back, which was 90 percent of the trailer.

We were heading on home and I got to thinking — things just went our way. The cattle came in the corral, we pulled the corral once, and we got all those cattle loaded and working in not the most desirable weather conditions, but then I went on a replay. Every time those cattle had gotten out and somebody would send them back, she gave them a reward. That reward was feeding them the sweet feed. That’s exactly why they went in that corral — they could smell that sweet feed. You can never tell what a yellow bucket can do. I am glad everything worked our way, and the cattle are in a safe, secure place and out of harm’s way.

“If you have cattle, pastureland, or raise hay like I do, you need to call Donna Byrum. In 10 minutes on the hood of my pickup, she signed me up for a program that I had no idea about. The next time she came by the farm, she brought me a check!

~ E.B. Harris

ABy ERIN DOLL, S.C. Beef Council

s the weather begins to warm up, beef promotions are heating up in South Carolina. The S.C. Beef Council has five billboards strategically placed across the state. Each of them has been recently updated with fresh graphics so that they continue to catch the eyes of travelers moving throughout our state.

We were excited about the opportunity to participate and support the Lauren’s County Spotlight on Agriculture again this year. This event focuses on various aspects of agriculture and community concerns and serves as a time to pay tribute to farmers and their families. For the S.C. Beef Council, this is an opportunity to connect

Iwith members of the agriculture community and beyond.

Rounding out the month of March, we attended the S.C. Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Annual Meeting, held in North Charleston. The Nutrition Seminar Program, funded by the Federation of State Beef Councils, works in collaboration with state beef councils to provide influential, credentialed health and nutrition experts to speak on cutting edge issues at State Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics meetings, as well as other statewide meetings and conferences whose audiences include credentialed health professionals.

We have lots of exciting things cooking, so be on the lookout for more S.C. Beef Council updates soon!

The Chaplain’s Corral

Easter — A Resurrection Celebration S.C. Beef CounCil update

By TAMMY BURTON, Cowboys for Christ Chaplain

have certainly done my fair share of complaining about the weather this winter, especially about the snow that blanketed the ground for the biggest part of January and the frigid cold weather and ice that made being outdoors dangerous and made feeding the animals more of a chore than an enjoyment. Here comes February with more of the same.

I know the Lord made the seasons for a reason, but in my senior years, they are harder to bear. I was making a trip around the yard and noticed some purple flowers pushing up through the snow, almost as if to offer encouragement to me that spring was coming.

Purple — the color that represents royalty, shoving up through the frozen, snow covered ground. How can this even be, on its own? I moved the snow away from the delicate flower to allow it to receive some sunlight and air and thanked the Lord for being my King, for all things renewed, for His birth and His death, and hope through His resurrection. As it says in Revelation 21:5-6 (NKJV) — Then He who sat on the throne said, “Behold, I make all things new.” And he said to me, “Write, for these words are true and faithful.” And he said to me, “It is done! I am the Alpha and Omega, the Beginning and the End. I will give of the fountain of the water of life freely to him who thirsts.”

The world seems as heavy as all the snow, with its issues, but help is coming through the promises He has made to those who choose Him.

Forgive me, Lord, for not always allowing myself to patiently accept the seasons you have created. This is such a small inconvenience when I look at all you have done for me. Spring is coming!

Because of the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus, we have a living hope. What a blessing we have this and every Easter. HE IS ALIVE! We are told in Peter 1:3 (NKJV) — “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His abundant mercy has begotten us again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.”

Beef Promotion and Research Program

PRIVATE TREATY SALES CHECKOFF INVESTMENT FORM

Information is required by (7 CRF 1260.201). Failure to report can result in a fine. Information is held confidential (7 CRF 1260.203).

Today’s Date: ________________

Seller’s Name: ____________________________

Address:

Buyer’s Name: ____________________________

Address:

City: ________________ State: ____ Zip: City: ________________ State: ____ Zip: ______

Seller’s Signature: _________________________

Buyer’s Signature: _________________________

Both the seller & the buyer are responsible for making sure that the $1.50 per head assessment is collected and remitted to the Beef Promotion & Research Board. Total Number of Cattle Sold: ___________________ x $1.50 Per Head = $

State of Origin of Cattle: * If the cattle purch ased came from another state within the last 30 days, indicate from which state the cattle were purchased.

TClemson Corner

Development of Climate-Smart Educational Efforts for Forage and Livestock Producers in South Carolina

By LILIANE SILVA, Clemson University

he livestock industry is one of the most important agricultural activities in the Southeast. Over the years, educational efforts have focused on improved management practices to optimize forage and animal production to reduce production costs due to the fluctuations of input prices. In recent years, there has been increasing interest in sustainable production intensification on forage-livestock ecosystems, aiming to reduce the environmental footprint of operations. Despite the popularity that terms such as climate-smart practices have gained, research based educational resources for extension education, agricultural professionals, and producers are still needed.

In collaboration with S.C. State University, Clemson University has been working to address climate-smart practices in four agricultural commodities — forages for beef cattle, peanuts, forest, and leafy greens. Over 150 livestock producers are enrolled in a collaborative project statewide, and measurements are being taken to determine greenhouse gas measurements from soil and animals, forage quality, and nutrient accumulation, especially carbon, on soil. Producers have implemented selected improved management practices (incorporation of clovers, poultry litter, and improved grazing management) to support improved production, sustainability, and resilience of operations. In the first year, the project offered 15 official program training and outreach events, reaching over 600 forage and livestock producers through in-person events. Feedback provided by producers has allowed educators to adjust educational strategies and create additional resources to facilitate the understanding of concepts and facilitate and expand the adoption of improved management practices.

These educational programming activities addressed specific content required and provided guidelines for the implementation

and management of practices by enrolled producers. The events were also open to the community, and local producers could attend them to learn more about the content being delivered as well. Over 600 forage and livestock producers attended the in-person events which consisted of field days, workshops, and trainings for producers and educators. During the training events, participants learned more about the establishment, management, and animal nutrition under several forage systems, and specific questions related to the climate-smart practices were also addressed. Over 70 percent of participants said they would adopt management practices discussed during events in the next 12 months. Among the topics addressed, participants wanted further information and training on soil health, incorporation of legumes, and weed control on forage systems as the top three priority topics. This is aligned with the increasing interest in sustainable production intensification and the incorporation of improved management practices by producers.

ment

Secure Beef Supply Plan — What Producers Need to Know

By DR. PATTY SCHARKO, Clemson University

In 2023 alone, U.S. beef exports were over $10 billion. Exports add about $425 of value per fed steer or heifer — including meat cuts and offal, which is nearly 20 percent of the value of every fed carcass. One case of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) found in the U.S. would shut down all state and national export markets, cutting profits, and in many cases, livelihoods for cattle producers.

Luckily, the U. S. has not had a case of FMD since 1929. However, with global travel and trade, there is an ever present risk of FMD introduction. Recently, animals on a farm in Germany were diagnosed with FMD. The Secure Beef Supply Plan (SBS) was created to help producers protect their herds from FMD.

To enable this protection, funding provided during the spring of 2025 by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) will assist Clemson University Livestock Poultry Health (LPH) Animal Health Programs staff to work with South Carolina beef cattle producers to increase FMD awareness and support farm biosecurity. Individual farm visits will be made to write a farm specific, enhanced biosecurity plan for each premises.

What Does FMD Look Like? Foot-and-mouth disease — sometimes called “hoof” and mouth disease — causes blisters on the feet and in the mouth of two toed, or cloven hooved, animals like cattle, sheep, pigs, goats, deer, bison, and some wildlife. Cattle with FMD show signs of lameness, drooling, and do not want to move or eat because of the painful foot and mouth sores. FMD is a very contagious animal disease. It does NOT affect people or food safety. Meat and milk are safe to eat and drink.

Preventing FMD Spread - At the beginning of an FMD outbreak, the USDA will recommend at least a 72 hour national movement standstill for cattle, sheep, pigs, goats, deer, elk, bison, and their germplasm — semen or embryos. This is one way to stop the spread of FMD. Movement controls will continue after the standstill ends in the areas around infected herds. Restarting movement will require a special permit, issued by state officials, after a producer meets certain requirements. The SBS Plan has guidance for producers who have cattle with no evidence of FMD infection to meet movement permit criteria that is listed at www.securebeef.org/beef-producers/permit-guidance.

Secure Beef Supply Plan - The SBS Plan supports FMD control for infected herds and business continuity for uninfected herds. Resources are provided to help producers prepare BEFORE an FMD outbreak. Following the SBS guidance will help producers with cattle that have no evidence of infection to limit disease exposure, move animals under a movement permit, and maintain business continuity. Producers can prepare now by:

• Having a National Premises Identification Number (PIN) - www. aphis.usda.gov/animal-disease/traceability/pin;

• Writing an operation specific enhanced biosecurity plan;

• Keeping movement records of animals, people, equipment, and other items onto and off the operation;

• Developing contingency plans for the operation in the case of limited movement.

Disease Monitoring - Cattle should be inspected frequently during an outbreak so that FMD disease is found quickly to limit disease spread. Producers should immediately report suspicious signs of disease to their herd veterinarian or officials.

Next Steps - Producers can explore the resources available to help protect animals and businesses at securebeef.org and should work with their herd veterinarians to build enhanced biosecurity plans.

For South Carolina cattlemen and cattlewomen, contact Dr. Patty Scharko at pschark@clemson.edu or 803-422-6998 to learn more about starting an SBS Plan.

References

Dr. Danelle Bickett-Weddle, Preventalytics and Dr. Julia Herman, National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, 2024. Available at www.securebeef.org/training-materials/outreach/. Contact email sbsinfo@iastate.edu.

Small Farms, Large Work

By KEELY MARLOWE,

N.C. State University -- ANS 402 Beef Management

For some people, having a farm and raising cattle is a hobby, while others put all their hopes and dreams into their production. It would be nice if beef cattle could be put onto a piece of pasture and checked on occasionally with just a look, but that is sadly not reality. For these animals to just survive and continue to grow and to reproduce, they require things as simple as water and forages. From a production standpoint, cattle must receive vaccinations, supplemental feed, dewormer, and many other physically laboring needs. Small farming comprises more than 90 percent of farms in the U.S., and a majority of cattle owners having less than 50 head on their farm.1 Time and money are the main factors in the production of animals, and for a farmer, it is best to have a facility with low costs that allows for easy management practices.

In order to create the most efficient facility, specifically on a small farm, it is important to understand the behavior of the livestock. Cattle are unable to see directly behind them, along with a small area directly in front of them. They also have a point of balance that, depending on where you are standing, will either push them to move forward or backward. Depth perception is another aspect that can be increased or decreased with the amounts of light. Figure 1 represents the positions to focus on for driving cattle in the most stress free environment. This information became available from Dr. Temple Grandin, specifically for the humane

treatment of livestock for slaughter, and has continued to improve.

For livestock handling, a facility does not have to be the most expensive or the most attractive. Especially for small cattle farming operations, there is not always a surplus of funds available to splurge on facilities. The main piece of equipment needed for any facility is a chute with a head catch. Some chutes have more bells and whistles, allowing for the animal to be squeezed tighter for limited movement. The purpose of this piece of equipment is to allow individual handling and easy access to the cattle. Ear tag placement, vaccinations, hoof trimming, and antibiotic treatment can be accomplished through the use of chutes. Small farming operations may also investigate genetic improvement from the use of artificial insemination, and with a chute, the animals can be handled by a veterinarian in these cases.

Small farmers do not always have appropriate walkways or lanes in order to push their cattle into chutes and onto trailers. This part of the facility can allow for decreased stress as they are being utilized. Figure 2 illustrates a basic cattle handling system where a curved lane is being utilized.2 Movement from pens to a chute is meant to be in a single file line for ease. The walls creating the lanes need to be solid from top to bottom to prevent cattle from spooking by seeing what is on the other side. Workers are normally walking around, and other equipment or the chute ahead of them could be in their view as well. Prevention of balking is important for the setup of the lines, as they need to move forward and not have the ability to turn around. Balking can be stopped by having a curved lane that allows cattle to follow their natural circling behavior while not having a dead end in the line of sight.

Other facility set ups that can have the best outcome for small farms include crowding and holding pens. A crowding pen leads into lanes and should be created in a circular shape. Funnel shapes are alternatives to circular, especially for smaller facilities, as they can be pushed forward without the need of gates. Holding pens should be large enough for the cattle to walk around, and the location should be easily accessible. These pens need to have access to water if the animals are there for extended periods of time.

Keeping the chutes and walkways under a roof will benefit producers because, no matter the weather conditions, the animals can still be handled efficiently. In covered areas, there should be added light if natural light does not reach darker areas for cattle and workers to see. Having escape routes to prevent injury is also important for operations of all sizes. Cattle are unpredictable, and having a safe spot to move out

Figure 1. Basic cattle handling system with curved race, round crowd pen, and curved lane.2

of their path can save a life. These openings in pens need to be large enough for a person to move through, but small enough to prevent a cow from pushing more than their heads out of. For a small farm, flooring is kept as dirt, but with the addition of concrete or scales, the ground needs to be kept relatively flat with no chance of slipping for safety reasons.

There is new technology being developed every day. For large cattle facilities, those inventions may be a needed investment, but for small farmers, staying simple can be the best way to go. Safety is the

number one priority for any operation, whether that be for the workers or for the livestock. Keeping stress low on the cattle being produced is a benefit, not only for the farmer to put money into their pockets, but also for the consumer as they are buying the product. Not every handling facility is the same, but opportunities for improvement are available. Equipment simplifies tasks and increases the wellbeing of the animals for all producers. Small farms are increasing in number, and investing early in resources is just a starting point for success.

References

1USDA ERS. (2020) “Farming and farm income.” (2024). www. ers.usda.gov

2Grandin, T. (1980). “The design and construction of facilities for handling cattle.” www.grandin.com

Moses, M. (2023) “Healthy Livestock, happy farmers: Livestock care tools and equipment to have on the farm.” www.bivatec.com

Merrick, M. (2022). “Designing an efficient and safe handling facility.” www.farmersjournal.ie.

The Ohio State University. “Cattle care: Handling and facilities.” cfaessafety.osu.edu.

Rhinehart, J. (2020). “Small Farm Series: Handling/ Working Facilities.” www.drovers.com.

Have You Herd is written as a portion of ANS 402 Beef Management course requirement at N.C. State University Department of Animal Science under the instruction of Dr. Carrie Pickworth. The opinions of Keely Marlowe are not necessarily those of N.C. State University or Dr. Carrie Pickworth.

Figure 2. Correct handler positions for driving cattle.2

CATTLE & CARBON Biologically Active Soil Carbon

By ALAN FRANZLUEBBERS, USDA-Agricultural Research Service

Although we often consider the ground under our feet as inert and something that is simply necessary for us to traverse this beautiful planet, we should also recognize that soil is alive! It’s alive from the many and varied organisms that reside within. These organisms can be the moles, insects, spiders, and earthworms you might find occasionally in different parts of your farm. There are also millions of billions of microorganisms — bacteria, fungi, archaea, and actinomycetes that reside in the soil and perform many important functions that make your farm effective at growing forages and feeding your livestock. How we know this is by looking through a microscope and seeing these organisms contained within the water held in soil. We can also know this from their activity. Most of these soil microorganisms are heterotrophic, that is, they must consume carbon from organic matter to obtain their energy. Indeed, these soil microorganisms are much like us in their daily diet requirements. Plants, on the other hand, are autotrophic. They produce their own food through the process of photosynthesis. Plants feed us and the livestock we raise. The residues of plants and animal excrement then become the food source for feeding soil microorganisms. This cycling of carbon from the atmosphere to plants to soil microorganisms and back to the atmosphere is the simplified process that drives nature. Indeed, the living soil beneath our feet is vital to our existence!

Have you ever wondered where in the soil most organisms are active? One obvious place is in and around dung pats. These are carbon rich areas that feed insects like flies and dung beetles, earthworms, and other mobile creatures searching for food. These dung pats also enrich the underlying soil microbial community that is less mobile. Another place that soil organisms are highly active is around roots. This is because roots release carbon rich substrates into the soil, and some roots are dying while others are growing. It has oft been documented that the rhizosphere (the few millimeters surrounding individual roots) is highly enriched in biological activity compared with the bulk soil.

From the sampling of pastures across North Carolina in 2023 (see the February 2025 issue), soil-test biological activity was determined on all samples to a depth of 24 inches. Analyses were separated into the 0–4 inch depth, 4–12 inch depth, and 12–24 inch depth. Soiltest biological activity is an analysis of carbon mineralization (i.e.,

the carbon dioxide produced by the activity of soil microorganisms) over time. I developed this analysis into a standardized test 30 years ago after reading about research in the early 20th century that diminished after World War II. In this test, dried soil is rewetted to optimal moisture content and incubated at 77°F for three days. It’s not a widely used test like that of soil pH, cation exchange capacity, or available phosphorus and potassium. However, there are some quicker versions of the approach used by some labs, such as with the Haney soil health test or the Solvita soil CO2 burst test. In all versions of this analysis, greater biological activity means that soil has more living organisms present, and they are feeding on the available resources in the soil. Soils with low biological activity indicate that food resources are limiting and may simply not be available for feeding soil organisms.

Soil-test biological activity in North Carolina grasslands was enriched near the soil surface, as seen in Figure 1. Biological activity decreased dramatically with depth within the surface 12 inches of soil, and essentially remained constant at very low levels below one foot depth. Figure 1 contains the mean values plotted for each of the three physiographic regions as well. Depth distributions were similar in shape among all regions. Coastal Plain soils had lower

1. Soil-test biological activity as a function of soil depth within each of three physiographic regions in North Carolina.

Figure

average soil-test biological activity than in the Piedmont and Blue Ridge regions. This was likely due to a combination of soil texture and climatic conditions. Coastal Plain soils tend to have greater sand and less silt and clay than other regions. The Coastal Plain region also trends towards slightly higher temperature with longer growing season than the other regions. Average precipitation is typically lower in the Piedmont than other regions, but there is considerable local variation, and particularly from year to year.

Average values of soil-test biological activity are useful for comparing regions and soil depths. A practical reason for determining soil-test biological activity is to understand how soil microorganisms are influencing soil nitrogen availability. Figure 2 illustrates that as soil-test biological activity increases, so too does net nitrogen mineralization. Net nitrogen mineralization expresses the capacity of soil to release nitrogen chemically bound in organic matter to plant available forms of nitrate and ammonium, which can be absorbed by growing roots in the soil profile. Soils with high net nitrogen mineralization of greater than 200 lb N/acre might be able to supply the vast majority of nitrogen requirements of forages. Therefore, these biologically active soils might not require supplemental nitrogen fertilization. However, those soils with low net nitrogen mineralization of less than 100 lb N/acre don’t have the organic matter resources necessary to supply large amounts of nitrogen to growing forage plants. These soils would likely need supplemental nitrogen application, whether that is from chemical or organic sources.

Data in Figure 2 were from the 0–4 inch depth only, but as seen in Figure 1 this is the depth of greatest biological activity, and therefore, greatest net nitrogen mineralization. Data indicate a wide

Figure 2. Association between soil-test biological activity and net nitrogen mineralization (evaluated from 24 day incubation at 50% water filled pore space and 77 °F). Data points are averages from sorted increments for every 50 units of soil test biological activity. Error bars indicate standard error of the mean. Values less than 600 mg/kg/3d showed little variation, while values greater than 600 mg/kg/3d revealed larger variation (potential nitrogen immobilization can occur with high carbon availability).

range of net nitrogen mineralization, from approximately 40 lb N/ acre to 250 lb N/acre.

Based on several years of research and experience in grain and pasture trials, I’ve established what, I think, are reasonable categories of sufficiency for soil-test biological activity. These categories are very low, low, medium, high, and very high as shown in Table 1. The frequency of occurrence in each of these categories was different among the three physiographic regions. Grasslands in the Coastal Plain region had greater frequency of very low and low soil-test biological activity than in other regions. Most samples were in the medium and high categories in the Piedmont region. In the Blue Ridge region, most samples were in the high and very high categories of soil-test biological activity. Predominantly sandy soil in the Coastal Plain was the likely cause of low soil-test biological activity, since organic matter is not protected within soil aggregates that form with silt and clay particles and have high absorbance capacity. Cooler temperature in the Blue Ridge combined with medium and fine textured soils likely led to the preponderance of very high soil-test biological activity. Although frequency differences occurred in soil-test biological activity categories, relative association with net nitrogen mineralization was similar. Greater deviations occurred among regions in the percent soil organic matter within

Cattle & Carbon continued on the next page

Cattle & Carbon continued from the previous page

a soil-test biological activity category. This is why the biologically active portion of organic matter is considered more important for soil fertility assessment than total organic matter.

Grassland soils in the Carolinas can be considered well endowed with surface soil organic matter that contributes to elevated soiltest biological activity. Management of pastures and hayfields likely contributes to variations in soil-test biological activity and net nitrogen mineralization. Using the soil health principles to keep forage swards in good condition with abundant and deep rooting will help you achieve greater soil biological activity, and possibly even, an upper level so that nutrient cycling becomes an asset. This could allow you to make more effective and cost efficient fertilization decisions, as well as to provide a grassland ecosystem that is self sustaining as nature intended.

In summary, carbon in soil contributes resources to feed soil microorganisms. Those organisms perform a variety of beneficial functions to enhance grassland productivity, and may even protect the environment by filtering water and stabilizing carbon in soil aggregates. In fact, strong positive associations have been found between soil aggregation and soil-test biological activity. Further, carbon within those aggregates is enriched, and this can lead to physical protection of that carbon from being consumed further.

Cattle & Forage Health

Nitrate Toxicity in Forage Crops

By LILIANE SILVA & LEE VAN VLAKE, Clemson University

Nitrate is a naturally occurring component in plants, and its accumulation is usually associated with plant stress conditions (e.g., prolonged drought). When plants grow slowly, they continue to update nitrates, but these do not convert to proteins and amino acids, so there is a buildup of nitrates in the plant. For example, after a drought ending rainfall event, it is recommended to wait around seven days before allowing animals to graze an area. Nitrate concentrations may be high after a prolonged drought, and it takes several days for plants to convert those into amino acids and proteins. Generally, forage crops that receive high nitrogen fertilization are more prone to contain high nitrate concentrations, in addition to some species that naturally accumulate higher nitrate levels. Properly managing forage fields and livestock consumption when there is an occurrence of conditions that can elevate the nitrate buildup in plants is recommended to avoid nitrate toxicity in livestock. High nitrate levels in the animal diet increase nitrite levels in the bloodstream, which binds with hemoglobin, preventing normal oxygen transference. Signs of acute nitrate toxicity may include rapid and difficult breathing, rapid pulse, tremors, staggering, collapse, and death. A key diagnostic feature of acute toxicity is dark brown blood color., However, in most of these cases, treatment is not practical due to the rapid evolution of the symptoms. Therefore, understanding how to reduce the risk of nitrate toxicity occurrence and how to identify symptoms and test the forage is crucial. In terms of management practices for forage fields, utilizing split applications of the full rate of N inorganic fertilizer and properly replenishing the system with nutrients needed by plants will support proper growth rate and improve plant use efficiency. In addition, livestock should not graze areas where there may be nitrate buildup during a prolonged dry period or after a frost event. Managing the grazing event to avoid exposition and providing supplements (e.g., cottonseed) or low nitrate roughage before turning animals into pasture is recommended.

When harvesting the forage to conserve it, the drying process does not decrease nitrates. In this situation, hay may need to be diluted in the diet with other low nitrate forage. If harvested and done correctly, ensiling [silage or ‘wet hay’ (haylage)] is a great way to decrease the potential for nitrate toxicity in forage crops. If high nitrate forage cannot be avoided, ensiling should be considered. To prevent nitrate toxicity, forages within fields prone to high nitrate concentrations

should be tested. There are commercial nitrate test kits available that can be used in the field. Values greater than 2,500 ppm in forage for beef cattle are considered moderate or high in nitrate concentration, and samples should be tested in commercial laboratories. These results will help to determine when it is safe to have animals grazing a particular field after plants have had time to dilute their concentrations after a rainfall event, for example, or even to properly develop rations that can support nitrate dilution to feed animals. For testing nitrate concentrations in forage samples, consult your local extension agent, who will be able to direct you to available nitrate tests to use or to which commercial laboratories to send samples.

USDA Abattoir and Processor

Focus on Forages

Summer Annual Forages — An Alternative to Meet the Forage and Nutrition Gap During Summer Months

By LILIANE SILVA & LUANA ZAGATO, Clemson University

Warm season annual forages are fast growing, high quality forages that can supplement production and quality to support animal performance. In the Southeast, they are planted from April through June and can be managed for baleage production, greenchop, or grazing. Since most livestock operations in the region are based on perennial grasses, such as tall fescue (Festuca arundinacea) and bermudagrass (Cynodon dactylon) , summer annuals are a good alternative to complement those operations’ requirements. For example, they are a good alternative to support nutritional requirements for stockers during the summer months. Thus, due to their fast growth and stand establishment, summer annuals can help to fill the gap of forage production for dormant tall fescue stands or operations impacted by unforeseeable weather conditions.

Warm season annual forages can be grown either in monoculture or in mixture in the region, as seen in Figure 1. They require proper soil pH and fertility and adequate land preparation ahead of planting. Among the grasses, the most used ones are crabgrass (Digitaria sanguinalis), pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum), sorghum (Sorghum bicolor) , and sorghum-sudangrass (Sorghum × drummondii ). Crabgrass is productive, with crude protein (CP) concentration

around 15 percent, and can be managed for reseeding at the end of the season. Pearl millet is high yielding with a CP concentration of 15 percent and has higher drought tolerance than sorghum and sorghumsudangrass. Sorghum and sorghum-sudangrass are high yielding, with a CP concentration of about 16 percent. They require proper grazing management to avoid issues with prussic acid poisoning or nitrate toxicity, mainly when drought or frost events occur. Sugarcane aphids can be an issue, and if let uncontrolled, can damage the forage yield and quality of sorghum containing forage stands.

When managing summer annual forage mixtures, it is important to avoid overgrazing to preserve the growing point of plants and maintain adequate leaf residual biomass for proper regrowth. As a rule of thumb, annual forage stands should not be grazed below 16”, and forage mass should be measured to adjust the stocking rate and the rotation length during the season. A pasture ruler or grazing stick is recommended to determine forage height and estimate the grazeable forage mass that is available. On average, forage production ranges from 5,000–10,000 lb/acre for summer annual forages, depending on the fertilization rates used.

The Clemson Forages team led by Dr. Liliane Silva has been working on determining forage agronomic and quality responses of summer annual monocultures and mixtures under grazing or single cut harvest. The Ph.D. student, Luana Zagato, is currently processing samples of her two year grazing study, in which three summer annual mixtures were utilized, and heifers grazed the pastures during summer. Based on preliminary results, summer annual forage mixtures may be a viable alternative to provide high quality forage and increased forage production during summer months in the Southeast. These forage systems may help decrease reliance on off-farm inputs such as inorganic nitrogen fertilizer and feed supplementation to meet higher nutritional requirements of certain livestock categories. Incorporation of legumes into grass based forage systems may help with forage production and quality, species diversity, resilience, and sustainability of forage based livestock systems while enhancing soil health over time. It is crucial to emphasize that one should contact their local extension agent or specialist for help identifying the best forage species and management practices to be implemented in their operation to achieve the best results.

Figure 1. Summer annual mixture under grazing in Blackville, S.C.

You Decide!

By DR. MIKE WALDEN, William Neal Reynolds Distinguished Professor Emeritus, N.C. State University

You Decide: Can We Make Sense And Cents About The Debt? The national debt has been an issue in the U.S. for decades. However, concern about the debt has peaked for two reasons. The first is the debt’s size, today totaling $36 trillion. As a percentage of the economy, the debt is at 120 percent. The only other times the debt was above 100 percent of the economy were during COVID-19 and World War II.

The second reason the national debt is in the headlines is the effort by the federal Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) to deal with the debt by reducing federal spending.

Yet, there are numerous questions about efforts to curtail the debt that sometimes make the issue confusing. The goal of today’s column is to clear up this confusion, allowing you to better understand both the concerns about the debt and the options for addressing those concerns. Then you can decide what to do.

A starting point is basic definitions regarding the debt. The words “debt” and “deficit” are often used interchangeably, but they are different. Debt is the total amount the federal government owes, like the balance on a credit card. Deficit is the annual amount added to the debt, comparable to the annual spending added to a credit card.

Also, like private debt, the national debt has two components. One is the principal, which is the total amount borrowed. Today, the principal is $36 trillion. The second is the periodic interest payment made to those who finance the national debt. Those interest payments are approaching $1 trillion annually and are now the fourth largest category of federal spending.

Both domestic and foreign investors purchase U.S. Treasury securities to finance the national debt. Why do they do this? It’s because owning part of the national debt is considered a relatively safe investment. The U.S. government has tremendous national assets and has never missed an interest payment to investors.

There are two steps to addressing the large national debt. The first is to stop adding to the debt. Currently, the annual federal deficit is almost $2 trillion. At this pace, the national debt is increasing by $2 trillion each year. DOGE’s stated goal is to reduce that amount to $1 trillion. The debt will still be rising but by a lower amount.

But there’s another complicating element: proposals to take some of the deficit reduction and return it to taxpayers. For example, suppose DOGE is successful in reducing the annual deficit by $1 trillion. In that case, an idea has been proposed to take 20 percent of this amount — $200 billion — and return it to taxpayers in the form of “DOGE checks.” This would mean the deficit reduction would be $800 billion, not $1 trillion. It also means the $200 billion in checks would be borrowed.

What are the ways to reduce the debt? One simple way is simply to not borrow more, that is, leave the $36 trillion but add no more to it. This would mean having a balanced budget each year, with no borrowing

for a deficit. You might say, “What? That’s not reducing the debt, it’s simply keeping it the same.” Actually, it is reducing the debt in two ways. First, because dollars lose value over time, $36 trillion in the future is not the same as $36 trillion today. Dollars lose value over time just by having a typical modest annual inflation of 1–3 percent. For example, with an annual inflation rate of 2 percent for the next 10 years, the purchasing power of today’s $36 trillion debt would be 22 percent less in a decade.

Second, as the economy expands, the relative size of $36 trillion would decline. For example, if the economy grew at the same rate as last year for each year of the next decade, the relative size of the national debt to the economy would decline from 120 percent to 77 percent.

But not borrowing would require discipline. Some have said our federal elected officials need a direct incentive to eliminate borrowing. One idea has been proposed to do just this — require that any spending above current tax revenues would automatically trigger a tax increase to generate more revenues, so borrowing is not needed. In essence, all spending would be paid for by taxes. Because many, perhaps most, voters don’t like tax increases, the incentive of a tax trigger would be a strong motivation for a balanced budget.

Another idea was proposed 60 years ago when deficits first became a big issue. The proposal was to model the federal budget after most states’ budgets and, indeed, after business budgets. The proposal divides federal spending into two parts — an operating budget and a capital budget. The operating budget is for expenses that keep the government operating today, and funding the operating budget would be from current tax revenues only. The capital budget would be for investments that impact many future years, like road construction, military equipment, and research and development. Since the benefits from capital spending impact future taxpayers, capital spending could be funded by borrowing, meaning the funding is paid over numerous years.

The country has struggled with deficits and debt for several decades, with no solution in sight. We’ll see what will come from current efforts to tame federal borrowing. Ironically, I remember when the opposite was an issue. During the 1990s, the federal budget ran a surplus for several years, and there were projections that this would continue for decades. The worry was what this would do to financial markets with no new federal Treasury securities being issued. Can we reach this “pleasant problem” again? You decide.

You Decide: Why Are Recession Fears Back? There’s a word most economists — indeed, most people — don’t want to hear, and it begins with an “r.” I’ll give you a five second countdown to guess: 5,4,3,2,1... Buzz, time’s up. The word is “recession,” I expect most of you guessed correctly. Yes, after being out of the headlines for most of the past year, the “R-word,” recession, is making a comeback in the news.

Indeed, one economic measure designed to predict recessions has been suggesting a recession is ahead. Another forecast doesn’t go that far, but it predicts the economy will shrink in the first quarter (January to March) this year. A rule of thumb used by economists says a recession is occurring if the economy shrinks for two consecutive quarters, that is, for six months.

So, while there’s no firm evidence we are currently in a recession, there are enough worries about the economy that the question cannot be discarded.

The starting point is to look at economic trends. The broadest measure of the economy is “real gross domestic product,” or GDP for short. Translated, GDP measures the value of all economic production, including products and services, in the economy over a period of time. The latest reading is for the end (fourth quarter) of 2024. That rate was positive, meaning the economy expanded but at a slower pace than in the previous quarter.

Consumer spending drives the economy. In January, consumer spending dropped for the first time in almost two years, even after taking out inflation and adjusting for the typical pullback in spending following the holiday buying season. The reduction wasn’t large, but it was surprising because after tax consumer income rose by a healthy amount. Another worry is consumer debt has been trending higher.

Of course, the job market is one of the key pieces of our economy and likely the part most followed. The nation has continued to add jobs at the beginning of 2025, but the pace of job growth has slowed. There’s also been a slight upward trend in the jobless rate since mid-2023, with the rate rising by .5 a percentage point to just over 4 percent. Perhaps more concerning, job layoffs have been higher in recent months, job openings have declined, and new unemployment claims have increased.

There’s also been concerning news on the inflation front. During the summer of 2022, the annual inflation rate hit a 40 year high of over 9 percent. However, over the next two years, significant progress was made in reducing this rate. Indeed, in September 2024, the annual inflation rate was only 2.4 percent, which was very close to the Federal Reserve’s goal of 2 percent. Unfortunately, since then, the progress in reducing the inflation rate has stopped; in fact, it has reversed. Early this year, the pace of annual price increases jumped to 3 percent. Since the Federal Reserve (Fed) usually only reduces interest rates when they are satisfied the inflation rate is under control, the Fed did not lower interest rates at their January meeting.

What people think about the economy is also very important. If people are confident the economy is doing well, they are more likely to spend, and businesses are more likely to hire. But if confidence falls, the opposite can happen — spending and hiring can both fall. Unfortunately, there was a large drop in consumer confidence in February, which sparked many concerns about where the economy is headed this year.

So, with all this somewhat apprehensive news, is a recession a “sure thing” in 2025? Thus far, polls of economists say no. Only about ⅓ of economists are predicting a recession in 2025. While this is good news, the percentage was only 25 percent about a month ago. But, what more economists do agree on — by a rate of over 50 percent — is that the economy will grow more slowly in 2025.

There is a big difference between a recessionary economy and a slower growing economy. A recession means the economy is shrinking, particularly in terms of the production of goods and services. A slower growing economy

indicates expansion in terms of the production of goods and services, but at a lower rate. In short, a recession means we’re falling behind, whereas a slowdown means we’re still moving ahead but not as fast.

Recognize, however, that there can be similarities between recessions and slowdowns, particularly in the job market. In both, jobs can be cut, the unemployment rate can rise, and the number of people who want to work but can’t find jobs can increase.

Even while most economists are not currently predicting a recession, there is a policy most are worried about that could cause one. That policy is tariffs. While tariffs could have positive results by motivating companies to hire and make products in the U.S. rather than in foreign countries, accomplishing this is not a short term process. It can take years. In the meantime, economists worry tariffs can increase prices and disrupt supply chains.

Furthermore, if foreign countries respond to U.S. tariffs by raising their own tariffs on U.S. made products, U.S. companies can lose sales and cut back on production and employment. The potential result is a recession. The fear of a tariff induced recession is probably the best explanation for why the “R” word has returned. These fears have also been reflected in large recent pullbacks in the stock market.

The current conclusion is that the economy is still growing, but the pace of growth may be slowing. But slower growth is not a recession. Instead, what has been worrying economists and investors is tariff policy and where that policy is headed. Until that question is answered, most of us will be trying to decide if the “R” word is something we should be worried about.

Make Cattle Better in More Than One Way COMMON GROUND

By MARK McCULLY, American Angus Association CEO

“We just need tools to help us make the cattle better.”

This came from an Angus breeder I visited with this summer. Simple enough, right? But that statement has been bouncing around in my head ever since.

The charge seemed simple enough on the surface. After all, the first Long Range Objective of the American Angus Association is to “Drive breed improvement.” But, in the world of Angus cattle, the definition of “better” can be as diverse as the individuals who breed them

Diverse perspectives - One of the joys of my role is talking to Angus breeders and learning about their breeding philosophy. For some, it’s first about the numbers, leaning heavily on expected progeny differences (EPDs) and dollar value Indexes ($Values), and leveraging data driven decisions to the maximum.

For others, it’s a balancing act between numbers and phenotype, where the visual appeal and structural soundness of the animal take on equal weight to what’s on paper. Then there are those who largely prioritize phenotype above all, believing that the true art of breeding cattle lies more in the eye of the beholder.

I talk to breeders who are focused on propagating cow families and others who strive to develop total outcross genetic lines. There are so many different breeding philosophies across our membership, and I believe all have their rightful place.

Diverse environments - Angus cattle are raised in diverse environments, and that can also make defining “better” difficult. Differences in rainfall, soil productivity, temperature, growing season, available feed resources, and altitude all play a significant role in defining the type of Angus cattle that best thrive in each operation.

Certainly, not all Angus breeders or their customers manage and market the same way. Some focus on selling at weaning. Others retain ownership and sell finished cattle on a grid. Some raise their own replacements, and others purchase what they need.

Some operate in a more confined area and can be more handson at calving, while others see their cows on a far less frequent basis. Then some focus on the show heifer market and selling heifer calves to juniors excited about the Angus breed. Each of these variations establishes different priorities and breeding objectives.

For the good of the industry - In the end, all these examples underscore that “better” is not easily defined. I am reminded of another conversation I had with an industry leader early in my tenure as CEO. His advice to me was also straightforward, “Always do what’s best for the beef industry.”

That charge is ultimately what Angus breeders and leaders have been doing for decades — keeping the consumer loving our product and keeping the cattle producer in business.

During the past few years, one focus of the association has been on tools to improve feet, longevity, and udder quality. Simultaneously, Angus has led industry collaboration to research bovine congestive heart failure and better understand the genetic influence of heart remodeling and heart failure.

While maintaining a focus on marbling and consumer eating satisfaction, Angus is also involved in the leadership of new ways to measure and improve red meat yield and carcass cutability. All of these things can be done at the same time, particularly in a breed as diverse as Angus.

While defining “better” may sound different depending on whom you talk to, in the end, the Angus breed will stay focused on what is best for the bigger beef industry. That’s been the idea throughout our heritage and will stay the focus into our future.

S.C. Angus Association Annual Meeting & Banquet

The S.C. Angus Association held its 2025 Annual Meeting and Banquet on March 14 in Clemson, South Carolina. The 2025 officers and board of directors were elected at the meeting. The board consists of Scott Sell of Sylvania, Ga., director; Kevin Renwick of Newberry, S.C., director; Cecil Eaddy of Manning, S.C., director; Hank Sprowl of Greenwood, S.C., director; Paige McPhail of Seneca, S.C., secretary; and John Petty of Blacksburg, S.C., director; John Garrett of

2025 S.C. Angus Association Board of Directors

Troy, S.C., director; Donnie Watts of Lynchburg, S.C., president; Lee Clinton of Clover, S.C., vice president; Mike Johnson of Kinards, S.C., treasurer; and Kenneth Currie of Bishopville, S.C., director.

The 52 nd Annual Carolina Angus Futurity was posthumously dedicated to Evelyn Edmunds of Circle E Farms in Clover and W.R. “Billy” McLeod of Black Crest Farms in Sumter.

Photos by David Gazda of the American Angus Association.

Evelyn Edmunds’s family is pictured accepting her award.

W.R. “Billy” McLeod’s family is pictured accepting his award.

UPDATE

Angus Talks Quality Targets, Commercial Strategies for How to Cash In. AGI president Kelli Retallick-Riley and Certified Angus Beef’s Paul Dykstra speak about the market signals for quality beef and how cattlemen can profit from them. As the price of doing business in the beef industry trends higher alongside higher cattle prices, understanding the market signals for quality beef has become relevant to all segments of the supply chain. During the 2025 Cattle Industry Convention’s trade show in San Antonio, Tex., Angus Genetics Inc. (AGI) President Kelli Retallick-Riley and Certified Angus Beef’s (CAB) Paul Dykstra discussed how recognizing these market signals and using genetic tools can open doors to greater profitability for cattlemen.

Dykstra summarized what market signals are telling cattlemen based on demand. The National Beef Quality Audit, funded by the Beef Checkoff program, was one such source he spent time applying to real world data. Although the next National Beef Quality Audit is several years away, Dykstra said some of the quality targets for the next audit are already being met or are on pace to be hit.

“In 2024, we’ve already surpassed the goal for percent Prime,” he said.

Paul Dykstra presents during a Learning Lounge session at the 2025 Cattle Industry Convention in San Antonio, Texas.

Dykstra said the reasons for progress in quality grade trends as an industry can be traced back to several areas like genetic progress, the inclusion of distillers’ byproducts in feed rations, the adaptation of camera system quality grading, and increased out weights from the feedyard with longer days on feed.

“There are several factors that are very important there, lending to this wonderful trend line,” Dykstra said, showing a graph of U.S. Department of Agriculture Quality Grade trends over the past 25 years, as seen in Figure 1. Since 2006, which was the lowest in modern U.S. quality grade, the industry has seen increases in Choice, Prime, and premium Choice, like CAB. Dykstra said there has been a simultaneous decline in USDA Select grade at the same time. “Which I think is key, and we need not forget about that important feature of this quality grade improvement.”

Dykstra said he thinks the Prime supply growth deserves further conversation as an area of industry focus. From 2018 to 2020, there was a surplus of Prime tonnage that the foodservice industry wasn’t ready to purchase, and beef suppliers had to lean on the grocery sector for sales. Dykstra said it was a success for the industry to continually improve available pounds of Prime, and it should fuel conversations today.

“Those in the cow/calf business may feel a little insulated from these dollar amounts as you’re not thinking as much about selling carcasses,” he said. “But, of course, we all do eventually end up the recipients of these dollar outcomes based on quality.”

Retallick-Riley went on to talk about opportunities for commercial cattlemen to capture value on their investment in genetics and management, ultimately gaining a larger slice of premiums for higher quality grades.

Previously, differentiating higher quality feeder cattle in the market has been a steep challenge for commercial cattlemen.

“In most cases, the feedyard’s picking up those premiums, or maybe even the packers, but some of those premiums aren’t necessarily being driven back into the cow/calf producer’s pockets,” Retallick-Riley said.

Figure 1

American Angus Update continued from the previous page

“That’s where AngusLink comes in,” she continued. “This is a way that we’re using $Values to add value to commercial feeder calves based on the genetic investment you’re making.” AngusLink’s Genetic Merit Scorecard includes a beef score, feedlot score, and grid score directly tied to $Values.

And it’s working, Retallick-Riley said. With growing enrollments in fiscal year 2024, premiums of nearly $30 million were returned to the cow/calf producer. With that kind of success, producers are taking the opportunity to wisely reinvest in better genetics.

The first and easiest way to improve those genetics, and in turn improve your Genetic Merit Scores, is to buy the right bull for your operation’s goals, she said.

“The first part that we look at is starting with your foundation, starting with your bull selection criteria,” Retallick-Riley said. “A lot of our commercial cow/calf producers are looking at finding bulls to target CAB.”

As producers are shopping for registered Angus bulls, they can simply look for the Targeting the Brand logo. That logo is a selection tool for producers aiming for groups of fed cattle to hit 50 percent CAB or above. Angus cattle must meet a 0.65 MARB EPD and $55 grid value ($G).

“When you guys go home, and you take that bull, obviously you’re

taking the genetic material with him, not the management,” she said. “He’s going to have a huge impact on your herd, and using the genetic tools for selection is essential.”

A recent CattleFax survey shows that more than 80 percent of cow herds are Angus influenced, and likewise, those same producers are going to choose Angus bulls 70 percent of the time.

“So how do we harness all these things together to ensure we can take advantage of these great ingredients? We can also try to build a great cow herd,” Retallick-Riley said.

As producers retain heifers and work to build a better cow herd, taking the step to learn more about their genetic makeup is also important, she said.

“One of the best things about the Angus breed is that we have a lot of diversity,” she said. “We have those high terminal carcass quality genetics, but we also have cattle that obviously have to go back into the herd to have a maternal impact.”

Genomic testing can help. Individually testing Angus based commercial females with GeneMax Advantage gives cattlemen tools that tie directly to the American Angus Association database.

“That’s important because the more phenotypes we have behind those genomic predictions, the higher accuracy they are. The Angus database has millions of phenotypes,” she said.

GeneMax also gives producers results that include the same Angus $Values you find on registered Angus bulls and in the AngusLink calculations, tying the entire commercial pathway together.

Retallick-Riley noted commercial cattlemen are finding that helpful.

“It’s making our bull selections a lot clearer,” she said. “One of the enhancements on GeneMax Advantage is now that we have Angus $Values — that beef value and grid value we just talked about — to target those Certified Angus Beef premiums. You can directly compare your commercial cow herd to your registered Angus bull that you want to go out there and buy from your seedstock bull supplier.”

Producers can see where their cow herd needs improvement and easily look for a bull that will help them improve.

Ultimately, the goal is putting more dollars in a producer’s pocket, Dykstra said.

In 2024, more than two million carcasses were Angus type and eligible for CAB had they met all ten specifications for the brand.

“Today, about 37 percent of black hided animals are making it into our brand, based on the brand standards, and through our licensed packing partners.” Dykstra points out the marbling distribution of those that did not qualify: approximately 10 percent were within 30 points of making it into the Certified Angus Beef brand, as seen in Figure 2.

“So that tells me there’s opportunity,” he said.

With the different breeding decisions, “We can push a large number of animals across the line. So the opportunity is there to capture premiums we’re not capturing today.”

Angus Foundation to Award Five Students from a Commercial Cattle Operation. The Commercial Cattlemen Scholarship program helps support students using Angus genetics in a commercial operation. Youth can apply now through May 1. Commercial cattlemen and women are the backbone of the beef industry, and as the next generation of cattlemen prepares to lead the industry forward, the Angus Foundation is providing much needed support through its Commercial Cattlemen Scholarship program. This spring, five students will receive scholarships to help further their education and enhance their careers in agriculture. These scholarships are awarded to those who use Angus genetics in their commercial cattle operations

North Carolina Angus Association

ANGUS MEANS BUSINESS

Backed by the world’s largest and most reliable genetic evaluation program.

Registered Angus genetics deliver better calving ease, more growth, and superior marbling.

4K FARMS

Richard D. Kirkman, DVM Siler City 919-742-5500 rdkirkman@spectrum.net

BACK CREEK

Joe & Robin Hampton Mt. Ulla

704-880-2488 (Joe); 704-880-3572 (Robin) robinbackcreek@att.net

Facebook: Back Creek Angus

BILTMORE ESTATE

Kyle Mayberry - Manager Asheville 828-768-1956 livestock@biltmore.com www.biltmorelivestock.com

CARSON FAMILY FARM, LLC

John, Callie, Isaac & J.R. Carson Laurel Springs

336-818-9087 • carsonfamilyfarm@gmail.com

Facebook: Carson Family Farm

CHAPMAN CATTLE COMPANY

Gary, Isaac & Bryant Chapman Bryant Chapman - Manager Taylorsville 828-514-0526 bryantchapman21@gmail.com https://.m.facebook.com/chapmancattleco

CHESSIE CREEK FARM

Andrew Agostini Scott Sell - Manager Walterboro, SC 912-3292411 scott@chessiecreek.com www.chessiecreek.com

FOUR S FARMS

Kim & Connie and Jason & Robin Starnes Luther Lyerly - Manager Salisbury 704-640-5875 kim-4sfarms@carolina.rr.com

GRAGG FARMS

Paul, Chris & David Gragg Boone 828-268-4136 (Paul); 828-268-4137 (Chris) 828-268-4135 (David) gragg_farms@hotmail.com

H&H FARMS

Buddy & Jennifer Hamrick - Owners Bly Hamrick - Manager Boiling Springs 704-472-1912 jennham@bellsouth.net

Cortney Holshouser NCAA Executive Secretary 919-796-2346 ncaa.sec@gmail.com www.ncangus.org

HILL ANGUS FARM

Dr. Gary M. Hill Hendersonville 229-848-3695 gmhill@uga.edu

JACK KNOB FARMS

Karl, Janet & Logan Gillespie Franklin 828-371-2220 karl@jackknobfarms.com www.jackknobfarms.com

LANE ANGUS

Roger & Bundy Lane Bundy Lane - Manager Gates 252-398-7705 (Bundy); 252-398-7719 (Marinda) 252-357-1279 (Office) bundylane@gmail.com laneangusbeef@gmail.com www.laneangusbeef.com

N.C. State University

- E. Carroll Joyner Beef Unit Matt Morrison - Manager Raleigh 716-720-0227 mdmorri8@ncsu.edu

SMITH ANGUS FARM

Randall Smith Snow Camp 336-516-4558 smithangusfarm@yahoo.com

SMITH CREEK ANGUS FARM

Marty & Lynne Rooker Norlina 252-213-1553 mrooker@mrookerlaw.com

SPRINGFIELD ANGUS Phil Goodson Louisburg 919-880-9062 philgoodson2@gmail.com www.springfieldangus.com

TRIPLE LLL ANGUS Greg Little Monroe 704-219-1294 • greg.little@atimetals.com

UWHARRIE RIDGE FARMS

Mark Wilburn Asheboro 336-465-2417 uwharrieridgefarms@gmail.com

VANDEMARK ANGUS

Keaton & Janie Vandemark Spring Hope 252-885-0210 keaton@vandemarkfarms.com

WINDY HILL FARMS, LLC

Michael A. Moss Will Moss - Manager Ramseur 336-460-7451 • windyhillfarmsllc@gmail.com

WINSLOW GENETICS

Ben & Kathleen Winslow Halifax 252-578-5487 bensbulls@gmail.com

Figure 2

American Angus Update continued from the previous page

and must be pursuing an undergraduate degree or enrolled in a vocational program at an accredited institution of higher education.

“This scholarship program is designed to support students with a commercial cattle background in the beef industry,” said Jaclyn Boester, executive director of the Angus Foundation. “Supporting youth in their education is an important part of the Foundation’s mission.”

In 2024, applicants discussed how they incorporate Angus genetics into their breeding programs, noting the benefits they have seen to both the quality of their herd and their bottom line.

“When it’s time to sell, the Angus calves consistently outperform other cattle in the market, indicating their high demand and superior performance,” said Coy Stamm of Washington, Kan., and 2024 Angus Foundation Commercial Cattlemen Scholarship recipient.

Stamm is a student at Kansas State University, majoring in agronomy. He plans to return to his family’s farm as the fifth generation to manage the operation.

“Thank you to the Angus Foundation,” Stamm expressed. “The financial support provided by this scholarship has reduced the burden of my college expenses, allowing me to devote myself to a well rounded college experience. I am honored to be recognized by successful Angus breeders. After college, my goal is to continue and further develop my family’s Angus breeding operation.”

Two Angus Foundation representatives, two Angus industry representatives, and one beef cattle industry leader make up the Commercial Cattlemen Scholarship selection committee, which reviews applications. Emphasis is placed on the applicant’s knowledge of the cattle industry and their perspective of the Angus breed.

Boester elaborated on the scholarship program, noting, “The scholarship program is one of the most prominent and consistent ways our donors support Angus youth. Our scholarships pave the way for a bright future for our industry by ensuring young people can reach their full potential.”

Angus Foundation to Host 24 th Annual Golf Tournament in Oklahoma. Sponsorship opportunities and registration now available for the July 1 event. Tee off for a good cause! The Angus Foundation invites all golf lovers and Angus enthusiasts to enjoy a day on the green at the 24th Annual Angus Foundation Golf Tournament, held in conjunction with the 2025 National Junior Angus Show in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Set against the scenic backdrop of The Canyons at Blackjack Ridge Golf Course in Sand Springs, Okla., this event promises a day of friendly competition and fun — all while supporting the Foundation’s mission to advance education, youth, and research. Mark your calendars for July 1, and get ready to swing for the future of Angus!

Tee off for a good cause! The Angus Foundation invites all golf lovers and Angus enthusiasts to enjoy a day on the green at the 24th Annual Angus Foundation Golf Tournament, held in conjunction with the 2025 National Junior Angus Show in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Set against the scenic backdrop of The Canyons at Blackjack Ridge Golf Course in Sand Springs, Oklahoma, this event promises a day of friendly competition and fun — all while supporting the Foundation’s mission to advance education, youth, and research. Mark your calendars for July 1, and get ready to swing for the future of Angus!

“We are excited to host the 24th Annual Angus Foundation Golf Tournament,” said Jaclyn Boester. “We are grateful for all of our event sponsors and are looking forward to a great day with our Angus family and supporting the future of our breed.”

Sponsorship options are available for state and regional Angus associations, individuals, businesses, farms, and ranches. There are promotional opportunities at eight sponsorship levels: luncheon, beverage/player cart, tournament prizes, clubhouse, hole-in-one, tee box, hole, and flag. Sponsors will be recognized in the tournament program, tournament luncheon, post event news release, Angus Journal, and the Angus Foundation website. The sponsorship deadline is May 1.

Player registration is open through June 20. Adult registration is $125, and National Junior Angus Association members can register for $100. Players receive 18 holes of golf, golf cart rental, a continental breakfast, and a Certified Angus Beef brand lunch. Mulligans will be available at the course for $10 with a limit of one per player. After the registration deadline, adult player registration will be $135, and junior members will be $110.

For player registration, sponsorship opportunities, or more information about the golf tournament, contact Kris Sticken or Jimmy Stickley with the Angus Foundation at 816-383-5100 or visit www.angus.org/foundation

About the Angus Foundation. Established as a 501(c)(3) organization in 1980, the Angus Foundation remains focused on its mission to support Angus education, youth, and research. The organization has distributed more than $4.9 million in youth scholarships since 1998 and has also invested more than $1.4 million in beef cattle research in the past decade.

ANGUS MEANS BUSINESS. The American Angus Association is the nation’s largest beef breed organization, serving more than 21,000 members across the United States, Canada, and several other countries. It’s home to an extensive breed registry that grows by more than 300,000 animals each year. The Association also provides programs and services to farmers, ranchers, and others who rely on Angus to produce quality genetics for the beef industry and quality beef for consumers. For more information about Angus cattle and the American Angus Association, visit www.angus.org

Our breed Spotlight special sections are excellent forums to reach producers and cattle industry insiders in the Carolinas and throughout the Southeast. Advertisers also receive a special discount for placing their message in the Spotlight.

2025 Colvin Scholarship Fund Offers

$100,000 in Awards. Apply by April 14 for Certified Angus Beef scholarships supporting students pursuing careers in food and agriculture. Investing in the future of the beef industry, Certified Angus Beef (CAB) will award $100,000 to college students passionate about food and agriculture from the Colvin Scholarship Fund. Applications are across three categories and open through April 14.

TThe Colvin Scholarship Fund, named in honor of Louis M. “Mick” Colvin, co-founder and former executive director of CAB, aims to empower students dedicated to advancing the beef industry. Over its two decade legacy, the fund has supported more than 175 students pursuing educational and professional goals in agriculture. With increasing support from brand partners, this amount continues to grow.

NEWS

The Colvin Scholarship Fund represents our commitment to nurturing the future leaders of the beef business,” says Danielle Matter, director of brand experience and education. “Alongside our partners, we are helping aspiring professionals across food and agriculture to reach their goals.”

The 2025 Colvin Scholarship supports the next generation of agricultural leaders who are dedicated to preserving farm and ranch traditions, researching and developing improved beef quality practices, and devoting their careers, studies, and activities to making the beef industry even better.

“I’ve admired the Certified Angus Beef brand for years,” says Ryan Heitschmidt, 2024 Colvin recipient and West Texas A&M University animal science major. “To have a company that directly supports my education and future pursuits, that will lead to a career in the industry, means a lot.”

The production agriculture, undergraduate, and graduate scholarship categories each have tailored requirements, including essay questions, resumes, and letters of recommendation.

Applications for the 2025 Colvin Scholarship will undergo a comprehensive selection process, considering factors based upon the applicants’ academic achievements, extracurricular involvement, communication skills, and commitment to the beef industry. A selection committee comprised of industry experts and CAB representatives will carefully review each application to identify the most deserving candidates.

From Best Sourced to Best Tasting. After stepping into ranchers’ boots during week one, the 30 foodservice professionals of Master of Brand Advantages (MBA) Class 22 took their next step in Wooster, Ohio. At the Culinary Center, they immersed themselves in what makes beef truly exceptional.

From understanding USDA grading and marbling to hands-on beef fabrication, MBA participants gained a deeper appreciation for how quality translates to the plate. In the meat lab, they broke down

carcasses, explored primals, and learned how to maximize value from every cut. Discussions focused on consistency, portion sizing, and the importance of offering the right mix of cuts to meet customer demand.

Throughout the week, the work of cattlemen and women remained at the heart of every conversation. As participants explored strategies for navigating menu changes — offering alternate pricing, adjusting portion sizes, recommending different cuts, increasing product mix, and leveraging market insights — they recognized that their ability to sell CAB starts long before it reaches their hands. The dedication to quality at the ranch gives them the confidence to sell a premium product and keep it on the menu. The key takeaway? Quality pays more than it costs.

To bring it all full circle, the week concluded with a demonstration on how to effectively sell CAB. Participants learned that foodservice success isn’t just about having quality beef, but about positioning it correctly on the menu and ensuring the hard work of cattlemen and women is recognized. The premium product you produce sets the stage for chefs and foodservice leaders to deliver an exceptional dining experience and showcase its value to customers.

MBA Week Two built upon the foundation of sourcing the best cattle, proving that the best tasting beef starts long before steaks hit the grill. With one final week left for MBA Class 22, they will focus on bringing everything they’ve learned together, honing their skills, and positioning CAB to make the most of every sales opportunity.

Who is Certified Angus Beef? At Certified Angus Beef, we know people want to put great meals on the table. Our employees work across the beef supply chain to ensure chefs and home cooks find and prepare the best Angus beef. Led by our culinary, beef, and marketing experts, our team provides consultation, marketing materials, training, market insights, and tools that help businesses like grocery stores and restaurants thrive. Our team is also dedicated to sharing the story of family farmers and ranchers who supply the brand.

35th Annual Yon Spring Sale Results

Acold, but sunny day was enjoyed by all at the 35th Annual Yon Spring Sale on February 15. The sale offering included bulls and females, mainly registered Angus, with a select offering of SimAngus and Ultrablack genetics. The sale was broadcast live on DVAuctions.com. The auctioneers were Eddie Burks and Dave Mullins.

The top bull sold for $70,000 as Lot 1. Yon Classic, sired by Baldridge Gibson G859, sold to ST Genetics in Navasota, Texas. Yons retained a ⅓ semen interest.

The second top selling bull, Yon Top Cut M687, sired by Yon Top Cut G730, sold as Lot 13 for $24,000, to Gerloff Farms in Bland, Missouri. Yons retained a ⅓ semen interest.

The third top selling bull, Yon Stewardship, sired by Yon Saluda, sold as Lot 2 for $21,000, to Dutch Creek Angus in Pleasureville,

Kentucky. Yons retained a ⅓ semen interest.

The top selling fall pair, Lot 204/204A, Yon Sarah H942, at $15,000 to Riverhill Farm in Fountain Inn, South Carolina. She sold with a bull calf at side, sired by Yon Saluda.

Cattle were sold into 20 states, with long time repeat customers, as well as first time buyers, sharing in the purchases. The internet saw active bidding all day long, with almost half of the winning bidders being online. There were cattle for every budget, with excellent genetics at affordable prices. All cattle were sold satisfaction guaranteed.

The Yon Family Farms Fall Sale will be held the last weekend in October 2025 in Ridge Spring, S.C., where approximately 400 head will be offered. Visit their website at www.yonfamilyfarms.com for more information.

SALE AVERAGES

139 yearling Angus bulls - $9,705 • 15 yearling Simmental influenced bulls - $7,483 • 3 yearling Ultrablack bulls - $7,167

2 yearling SimAngus HT bulls - $8,000 • 23 Angus fall pairs - $8,717 • 6 SimAngus fall pairs - $7,083 • 13 Angus bred cows - $5,885

10 Angus spring calving bred heifers - $5,025 • 31 Angus fall calving bred heifers - $6,040 • 12 SimAngus fall calving bred heifers - $4,542

1 SimGenetic spring calving bred heifer - $4,500 • 3 Brangus influenced commercial heifers - $4,917

6 black baldy commercial bred heifers - $5,042 • 15 Angus embryos - $1,710

Lot 204/204A - Yon Sarah H942 - High selling fall pair

Lot 2 - Yon Stewardship - Third high selling bull

Lot 13 - Yon Top Cut M687 - Second high selling bull

Lot 1 - Yon Classic - High selling bull

NEWS

Premier Select Sires Announces Record Results for 2024. Farmer owned cooperative Premier Select Sires recently held their annual meeting and announced a third straight year of record sales. All categories of the cooperative showed growth, with direct semen sales and product lines showing the most increase from 2023. Board President Kenny Taylor, a cattle owner from Tennessee, stated, “We are so thankful to our customers for putting trust in us to serve them well and our employees for getting the job done.”

CEO Mark Carpenter echoed those statements. “We have seen many new customers utilize the services and products of Premier in 2024, and that trend continues. Our growth of over $3.5 million is an 8 percent increase on 2023 sales. This has allowed us to add new talented people to our team and reach additional customers to serve.”

The best selling sires for 2024 at Premier showed a top three of 7HO1508 PARFECT, 7HO14160 LUSTER-P, and 250HO16498 HULU. Vice President of Marketing Kirk Sattazahn delivered the sales information along with additional comments. Kirk stated, “I recently celebrated 30 years with the cooperative, and I can’t remember a time when so many good things were happening all at once. I attribute this to a very talented team that enjoys serving their customers. In addition to the semen growth, our DTX feed additive and CowManager activity system had record growth for new adoption.”

Premier has continued to partner with other leaders in the industry to offer a diverse line of services and herd management products. The cooperative continues to seek opportunities to help producers achieve new heights in profitability.

Premier welcomes new delegate Ken McCarty, who began service with the 2025 elections. In addition to the new delegate, the Board of Directors for 2025 will consist of the following leadership team - President Kenny Taylor, 1st Vice President James Cook, 2nd Vice President John Edd Harris, Treasurer Mike Saylor, Secretary Kevin Satterwhite and Public Directors Tim Riley, Rob Hamaker, and the aforementioned John Edd Harris.

With a strong start to 2025, Premier Select Sires Inc. looks forward to continuing service to dairy and beef producers in the cooperative membership area.

About Premier Select Sires . Premier Select Sires is a farmer owned cooperative that serves beef and dairy producers in its 23 state member area. Dedicated to providing its members with all

they need to achieve success, Premier provides:

• Industry leading genetics from the Select Sires, Accelerated Genetics, and GenerVations brands

• Effective herd health and management products, as well as artificial insemination supplies

• Reliable services and programs backed by years of success

• Knowledgeable industry experts who are easily accessed for consultation, advice, and on-farm assistance

Together with its two sister cooperatives, Premier owns and controls Select Sires Inc., the world’s most recognized name in bovine genetics.

In Loving Memory. .

Jack William McLane

March 30, 1950 – March 1, 2025

Jack William McLane, 74, passed away on March 1 at the Prisma Health Cottingham Hospice House, surrounded by his loving family.

Born on March 30, 1950, in Oconee County, S.C., he was the son of the late Oliver Cromwell “O.C.” Jr. and Ruby Edna Boggs McLane. Jack was the manager of the Senconee Motel for 27 years. He was retired from Clemson University, where he worked with the research farms, and was a lifetime farmer. He was a 23 year member of the Oconee County Beekeeper’s Association, where he was honored in 2010 and 2011 as “Beekeeper of the Year.” He was a long time member of the cattleman’s association, an avid gardener, and loved auctions.

Jack is survived by his son, Matthew McLane and wife, Jessa of Westminster; a daughter, Alicia Kelley and husband, Jonathon of Seneca; five grandchildren, Luke McLane, Katie McLane, Waylon Kelley, Gaige Kelley, and Thax Kelley; sister, Brenda Rackley of Georgia; and a long time special friend, June Ponder.

Jack is preceded in death by his parents, his brothers, Oliver Luther “Luke” McLane and Richard McLane, and a sister, Pat White.

UPDATE

RAAA Promotes Halla Ramsey to Executive Director of Operations.

In this new role, Ramsey will oversee the strategic direction and day-to-day operations of the association, ensuring efficiency and continued alignment with RAAA’s mission. As EDO, she will lead the operational management of registry activities, engage with stakeholders, and implement strategies to ensure organizational growth, sustainability, and industry compliance. This is a senior leadership role focused on improving internal processes, enhancing member services, and driving operational excellence. This promotion reflects Ramsey’s longstanding dedication, vision, and commitment to excellence within the organization.

“Halla has been a valued member of the RAAA team for 12 years, working closely with

our stakeholders as well as many of our industry partners,” said Kyley DeVoe, President of the RAAA Board of Directors. “She has developed the reputation of being a key asset to our association.”

“Halla is a long time employee of the RAAA and has great organizational skills,” said Tom Brink, RAAA chief executive officer. “She exhibits a great work ethic and a strong loyalty to Red Angus and the RAAA. This new structure will allow more time to be dedicated toward getting Red Angus cattle accepted into premium Angus beef brands, which is critically important to the future of the breed.”

From Briggsdale, Colo., Ramsey joined RAAA in 2013 as a special project coordinator for the registration and DNA departments. Ramsey has advanced through the company, contributing to multiple RAAA departments and committees. Ramsey resides in Gainesville, Tex., with her husband, Jeremy, and will work in a hybrid fashion

“I am excited to serve the RAAA stakeholders and team members in a new capacity,” Ramsey said. “With over 12 years of experience across multiple departments and active involvement in various committees, I am confident my diverse background will enable me to contribute effectively and help move the breed forward.”

About the Red Angus Association of America. The RAAA serves the beef industry by enhancing and promoting the measurable advantages of Red Angus and Red Angus influenced cattle. The RAAA provides commercial producers with objectively described cattle by implementing new technologies and using scientifically sound principles that quantify traits of economic importance to beef producers in all segments of the beef industry. For more information, visit www.redangus.org

4B FARMS, LLC

Shelby, NC

Bryson Westbrook Ed Soto (Manager) 980-230-4868 - Bryson 704-974-1407 - Ed brysonw@thewestbrookco.com

BLINSON

POLLED HEREFORDS

Lenoir, NC

Keith & Peggy Blinson - 828-310-4526 Bryan & Beth Blinson - 919-422-9108

DOUBLE J FARM

Traphill, NC • Earlysville, VA John Wheeler 910-489-0024 doublejfarmllc@yahoo.com www.doublejfarmllc.com

E. CARROLL JOYNER

BEEF UNIT

Raleigh, NC

Matt Morrison 716-720-0227

FIVE J’S

BEEF & CATTLE COMPANY

Clayton, NC

Jody & Angela Standley 828-320-7317 - Kim jodystandley@gmail.com

HEREFORD HILLS

Greensboro, NC

Bill Kirkman III 336-382-9635 ST Genetics Representative

McCOY CATTLE FARM

Cove City, NC

Myron & Charlie McCoy 252-229-4602 mccoycattlefarms@gmail.com

MITCHEM’S FARM 3C

Vale, NC

Wayne, Crystal, Regan & Jordan Mitchem 704-472-4369 mitchemsfarm@bellsouth.net

NORTH PINO

LAND & CATTLE COMPANY Mocksville, NC Kevin Robinson 336-399-9884 kevrob1@aol.com

LOVE FARMS

Blowing Rock, NC

Jim Love 828-266-1458 cell • 828-295-4236

P and J FARMS

Monroe, NC

Andy Smith 704-400-3436 pandjfarmsherefords@gmail.com

PRESTWOOD BEEF CATTLE

Lenoir, NC

Kim & Lori Prestwood 828-320-7317 - Kim 828-432-7434 - Lori brownloriclyde@yahoo

QUAIL RIDGE FARM

Rutherfordton, NC

Mark Brewer 828-329-2074 markbrewer65@gmail.com

TAYLOR’S MILL FARM

Zebulon, NC

J. Brent Creech 919-801-7561 tmfherefords@icloud.com

TERRACE FARM

Lexington, NC

Jim, Linda & Chad Davis 336-247-1554 terracefarms@gmail.com

TRIPLETT POLLED HEREFORDS

Statesville, NC

James Triplett 704-902-2250 triplettmarble@bellsouth.net

W&A HEREFORD FARM

Providence, NC

George, Tammy, William, & Andy Ward 434-251-3637 gwwardjr@comcast.net

WHITEHEAD

CATTLE COMPANY

Lewiston Woodville, NC

Austin & Jodie Whitehead Austin - 252-370-5647 Jodie - 252-642-3435 austinlwhitehead@yahoo.com

WILL-VIA

POLLED HEREFORDS

Mooresville NC

Lavette Teeter

704-662-5262

UPDATE

Building Blocks. Why Commercial Cattlemen Should Consider Santa Gertrudis. The building blocks of any structure must be strong. They serve as a foundation upon which the rest of the structure is built and must stand the test of time. As with anything, creating a robust commercial cattle herd has to start with the right ingredients.

The Hefte Ranch in South Texas has raised purebred Santa

Gertrudis cattle since the 1970s, and Kathryn Hefte has been involved in the operation since childhood.

“We sell cattle to other seedstock producers and commercial cattlemen,” Hefte says. “Some of the commercial cattlemen who buy from us will often have elite programs, and we also sell to local producers around South Texas. We run the whole gamut of producers.”

She says commercial cattlemen should consider building their herds on the Santa Gertrudis breed, especially as the weather tends to get warmer year after year.

“Unfortunately, it’s a scientific fact that the earth is getting warmer, and Bos indicus cattle are adaptable in the humid, hot climates,” Hefte says. “However, Santa Gertrudis cattle thrive in colder environments like British Columbia, Canada. They can thrive in the extreme environments and adapt.”

Environment Hardy Cattle - The Santa Gertrudis breed was developed in South Texas on the King Ranch in the early 20 th century. The ranch needed an animal that could withstand the harsh environment and produce efficiently.

The King Ranch started crossing Shorthorn cattle with Brahman, and they pivoted toward a cross of ⅜ Brahman and ⅝ Shorthorn as the most advantageous combination of the two breeds. The ranch continued breeding this combination until it gained popularity and was officially recognized in 1940 in the United States.

Chris McClure, executive director of Santa Gertrudis Breeders

SGBI News continued on the next page

SGBI Update continued from the previous page

International (SGBI), says the breed is still known today for its heat tolerance.

“I’ve had commercial producers tell me that they will watch other breeds go to shade or the pond while the Santa Gertrudis influenced cattle will continue grazing,” McClure says. “They can handle the heat much better because of their Bos indicus influence, red hide, and thick skin. They radiate heat better than Bos taurus cattle and are more parasite and disease resistant.”

Some producers may have concerns about the breed’s infamous

droopy ears and excessive dewlap. However, the breed has progressed significantly in addressing those challenges.

“If you look at the breed today, it’s not the same breed our grandparents knew,” McClure says. “The modern Santa Gertrudis has a clean underline and no excess skin. They were developed in the brush country of South Texas and can withstand thorns and rough country.”

As Hefte mentioned, Santa Gertrudis cattle are not only found in hot, dry climates. They are also successful in colder, wetter climates.

“Utah State just did a study comparing Angus, Santa Gertrudis and crossbred cattle with influences from both breeds,” McClure says. “They found that the Santa Gertrudis and crossbred calves had more cold tolerance based on their initial trial. This breed can adapt to any environment or conditions and thrive.”

Exceptional Mothers - Santa Gertrudis cattle not only thrive in extreme environments but can also raise a calf in one. This is partly because the breed was developed on the King Ranch.

“South Texas is not an area where you can intensely manage cattle,” Hefte says. “Cows are turned out and worked maybe once each year. If they have trouble calving, they won’t be around next year. In this climate, it’s survival of the fittest, and only the best survive.”

This method has refined the breed’s genetics to allow only the best mothers to continue their bloodlines, which is imperative for commercial herds.

“The Santa Gertrudis mother can raise an extremely large calf in the summer heat of South Texas, where the heat index can reach more than 120 ºF,” McClure says. “The heifers on the King Ranch have one chance to bring a live calf and raise it well, or else she’s culled. It’s a natural selection to prioritize the most fertile and maternal females.”

This breed will produce enough milk to support her offspring, even in severe conditions.

“Santa Gertrudis are such

excellent milkers that we have to closely monitor them when they have a calf on their side,” Hefte says. “We have limited resources, and Santa Gertrudis cows will put immense energy into milking. We have to ensure she has enough energy to keep her body condition up to breed back the next year.”

A Santa Gertrudis female can calve long after other breeds, which increases the overall draw for commercial breeders who want dependable, calf producing mothers.

“Some of these cows can reach 18–20 years and still produce a calf year after year,” McClure says. “It’s common to see active cows in a herd that are 12–15 years old. Typically, the Bos taurus breeds produce four calves in their lifetime, but the Santa Gertrudis females can easily produce more than ten calves.”

Impressive Sires - Strong maternal traits are important in a commercial herd, but producers cannot underestimate the importance of a Santa Gertrudis bull. Producers can choose from two types of bulls — terminal bulls and maternal bulls.

“The maternal bull sounds like an oxymoron, but they pass on the maternal traits,” McClure says. “The offspring from a maternal bull will wean at a higher weight than most breeds, making them fantastic mothers. The terminal bull passes on traits like growth, weaning weight, marbling ability, ribeye area, and others.”

Arlin Taylor is a SGBI board member, serving as vice president of breed improvement, and he says Santa Gertrudis bulls are top-performing.

“A lot of progressive breeders have done a lot of hard work to create bulls for the commercial industry,” Taylor says. “These bulls will perform at a high level under harsh conditions and be fertile. The Santa Gertrudis breed is also self sufficient and will be able to forage where other breeds may not.”

Their longevity is another perk of adding a Santa Gertrudis bull to the commercial operation.

“When you spend a lot of money on a sire, you don’t want them to only last one breeding season,” Taylor says. “The hardiness of these bulls ensures they will be servicing your herd for several breeding seasons in the future.”

Hybrid Vigor - Adding hybrid vigor is one of the most significant advantages of utilizing Santa Gertrudis cattle in a commercial operation.

“Producing cattle in a commercial operation is all about how many pounds you can produce on a given amount of land,” McClure says. “The most challenging part of raising cattle is facing limited resources such as water and land. They need to sustainably produce as much beef as possible, and the Santa Gertrudis breed does that extremely well.”

The original genetics of the Santa Gertrudis breed lend themselves to creating crossbreeds that stand out in a crowd.

“If you breed Santa Gertrudis to Bos taurus breeds like Angus, you’ll get to reap the benefits of both breeds,” Taylor says. “You’ll have the fertility, heat tolerance, and mothering instincts of the Santa Gertrudis and the best traits from the other breed. It also allows commercial cattlemen to enter their animals in crossbreeding programs like the STAR 5 program.”

The STAR 5 program allows Santa Gertrudis breeders to upgrade their non-Santa Gertrudis herd. It begins with a STAR 5 Recordation Certificate, which is recognized throughout the cattle industry as representing a percentage of Santa Gertrudis genetics. Progeny can advance to purebred status through multiple generations of breeding back to registered Santa Gertrudis cattle.

Feed Efficient - According to McClure, Santa Gertrudis is gaining

popularity in the commercial business because of its feed efficiency and performance in a feedlot.

“I have seen recent numbers from close outs, where the animals gained 3.9 pounds per day and converted 5.2 pounds of dry feed,” McClure says. “For most breeds, it could be anywhere from 5.7–6.5 pounds of feed required to convert to 1 pound of beef. Santa Gertrudis gain fast and convert feed efficiently.”

However, sometimes there needs to be a longer feeding period.

“Sometimes we don’t understand the growth profile of Santa Gertrudis cattle,” McClure says. “We have to grow them long enough to reach their optimum quality. If we do that, the cattle will grade 85–95 percent Choice or better.”

These cattle also excel health wise in a feedlot situation, when many others will fall prey to sickness.

“Not only are they feed efficient, but the Santa Gertrudis cattle also stay healthier than other breeds when they go to the feedyard,” McClure says. “I have feedlots tell me these cattle resist the pathogens and stay healthy. They have minimal health issues out of the Santa Gertrudis animals.”

The Future of the Breed - The future of Santa Gertrudis has never been brighter, and breeders are working to advance Santa Gertrudis to the next level and keep it in high demand.

“There is an extremely high demand for crossbreds with maternal traits,” McClure says. “We need to produce animals to feed the demand for the F1 crossbreds because operations are hungry for them. I’ve had producers comment that they can’t get their hands on any because they sell so fast.”

Hefte says it is all about education and breed promotion.

“We have to get the word out about how this breed has modernized and the work we’ve done to make Santa Gertrudis desirable,” Hefte says. “These cattle will thrive anywhere you put them, but people don’t know that. We have an excellent product, and now it’s about getting people familiar with it.”

She believes data is the best way to prove the breed’s value in a commercial setting.

“We utilize the latest technology at Hefte Ranch by using genomics and feed efficiency tests,” Hefte says. “We also use ultrasound to scan our animals to determine intramuscular fat and ribeye area. We keep detailed records that are labor intensive because we want to continue bringing quality, consistent animals to the table every time.”

Individual breeders are not the only ones working hard to improve the breed’s quality and demand in the industry. SGBI is also making strides to improve the breed.

“We created a new EPD for fertility, and we are always looking to create viable EPD measurements,” Taylor says. “Our goal is to remain a frontrunner in the newest technology and create programs that benefit producers. We are lucky to have the support of the breeders willing to work with us to propel Santa Gertrudis to the next level within the beef industry.”

Reprinted from Santa Gertrudis Source

About Santa Gertrudis Breeders International. SGBI provides progressive leadership, services, programs, and technology to promote and broaden the long term profitability of Santa Gertrudis influence within the beef industry by being member driven and consumer focused. For more information about Santa Gertrudis cattle and Santa Gertrudis Breeders International, visit www.santagertrudis.com.

ABBA

Executive Vice President Update

By PAUL MAULSBY, American Brahman Breeders Association

Dear Members of the American Brahman Breeders Association,

Clarification on Show Point Updates and Strategy Moving Forward

It has recently come to our attention that there are discrepancies in show points dating back to the 2018–2019 show year. We want to assure you that we are and have been actively addressing this issue and conducting a thorough review to determine what occurred and how we can correct any errors. In addition, we are extending our review to other years as part of an internal audit to ensure accuracy across all records regarding show points.

These discrepancies arose during a time when ABBA operated under a different staff and a system that is no longer in use. While this presents some challenges in retrieving and verifying historical data, we are committed to resolving this matter fairly, accurately, and transparently. Given that this involves records from six to seven years ago, this process will take time, but we appreciate your patience and understanding as we work through it.

Steps Moving Forward - To prevent future discrepancies, we have implemented a new plan to improve the tracking and maintenance of show points. Since most points are recorded in handwritten form, occasional clerical errors may occur, both within our office and from show providers. We recognize the need to minimize these errors and

have taken proactive steps to refine our processes.

We will continue to provide updates as we make progress toward a resolution.

Reporting Discrepancies - To ensure an efficient and effective resolution process, we ask that any concerns or discrepancies be reported directly to the ABBA office. Open communication allows us to address issues quickly and accurately, helping to maintain a positive and productive environment for all members.

Clarification on “Fake” Registrations in the Herd Book

It has recently come to our attention that some animals in the herd book were named “Fake,” leading to concerns about potential fraudulent registrations. We want to assure our members that these entries are not associated with any active breeder or fraudulent activity.

These records date back to 2018–2019, when ABBA was beta testing the former registry system, LGS. As part of the system’s development, test data — including placeholder names such as “Fake” — was entered to evaluate system functionality. Additionally, some animals were temporarily registered and transferred as multiple owned to test the system’s ability to process such transactions. These test entries should have been removed by the previous programmer at that time.

We are currently working to ensure that any remaining test data is properly deleted from the system.

To ensure efficient issue resolution in the future, we kindly ask that any concerns or discrepancies be reported directly to the ABBA office. Open communication allows us to address matters quickly and effectively, helping to maintain a positive and productive environment for all members. By working together, we can ensure accurate information is shared and prevent misunderstandings.

If you have any further concerns or questions, please do not hesitate to reach out.

Thank you for your continued support, trust, and commitment to the American Brahman Breeders Association.

NEWS

Updating Contact Information in the AGA Registry. AGA encourages all members to review the contact information listed on their account in the AGA Online Registry Service prior to May 1. Please be sure AGA has the correct address, telephone, and email address on file. If you need to update contact information, simply click the pencil and pad icon. This will pull up a window where information can be updated.

Information for the 2025–2026 AGA membership directory, which will be sent out in August, will be pulled on May 1. Only active members with their dues paid by May 1 will appear in the directory. To view the information that will be printed in the member directory, click on the “Prefs” tab on the General Profile Information Screen on the AGA Online Registry. The information under “Directory Listing” will be how the membership appears in the directory. Be sure the “Publish in Membership Directory” box is checked as shown in the image above.

Important Update — Testing Delays Due to Neogen’s High Volume and Automation Issues. Due to an unexpected surge in sample volume this spring, Neogen is facing delays in processing hair samples. As a result, testing turnaround times are expected to be delayed by 3–4 weeks. Please keep in mind that hair sample testing is a manual process and requires significant time and resources.

Additionally, Neogen is experiencing an automation delay with conditions testing (AM, OS, DD, and NH). While they have received the necessary primers to continue these tests, the automation delay has extended processing times. They are anticipating a three week delay for new samples, with efforts to catch up on current orders.

These delays are in addition to the standard 4-6 week processing time.

About the American Gelbvieh Association. AGA, started in 1971, is a progressive beef cattle breed association representing approximately 1,000 members and approximately 45,000 currently active Gelbvieh, Balancer, and Gelbvieh influenced cows assessed annually in a performance oriented total herd reporting system. The Gelbvieh breed is well known throughout the industry for their maternal strengths and superior growth. With these attributes, Gelbvieh and Balancer cattle fit well into a crossbreeding system

NEWS

Case IH Upgrades Performance and Comfort with New Farmall C Models. The Farmall Medium Utility C tractor series delivers expanded features, versatile design and precision technology to meet the needs of varied farm operations. Case IH is introducing the latest iteration of the Farmall C series tractor, building upon the legacy of the popular Farmall tractor while elevating performance, comfort, and power. On display at the 2025 World Ag Expo and National Farm Machinery Show, attendees saw how the upsized Farmall C tractor series is purposefully designed to meet the varied needs of farmers, ranchers, and rural communities across the country.

“Today’s farmers need equipment that can handle the increased and varying demands of their operations,” said Leo Bose, customer segmentation lead at Case IH. “The upgrades to the Farmall C lineup give farmers just that — the flexibility and heavy duty performance to complete a wide range of on-farm and in-field tasks.”

The new Farmall C lineup offers a 12 speed PowerShuttle and 24 speed Hi-Lo transmission, catering to varied operational needs, while offering factory installed technology to drive on-farm efficiencies.

In addition, operators can complete a wider range of farm operations and efficiently streamline workflows with the Farmall C’s larger, reinforced front axle, boosted hydraulic flow, heavier gross vehicle weight, and increased rear lift capacity.

“The new Farmall C not only offers heavy duty performance and maneuverability, it delivers an improved operator experience,” said Bose. “With the new ActiveClutch II brake to clutch feature, greater visibility, and the new L635 loader, operators can enjoy significantly increased comfort and reduced fatigue.”

The Farmall C tractor series is available in two transmission options: the 12 speed PowerShuttle transmission and the 24 speed Hi-Lo transmission. The 24 speed Hi-Lo transmission offers a new cab suspension for a smooth ride and increased comfort; an auto PTO function to automatically engage and disengage the PTO, providing seamless headland management; and an advanced loader joystick to simultaneously lift and shuttle control for fast material handling with an engine speed memory button.

The 12 speed PowerShuttle transmission — available for Farmall 100C, 110C, and 120C — and the 24 speed Hi-Lo transmission option — available for Farmall 90C, 100C, 110C, and 120C — comes with fully integrated base telematics to geolocate the tractor and monitor the machine for service.

Case IH SenseApply Offers Affordable, Versatile Sense and Act Application Technology. SenseApply technology offers the most variable rate application options of any one solution on the market. Case IH is launching SenseApply technology, an economical and adaptable

automated Live variable rate application solution purposefully designed to maximize the output of every input. SenseApply consists of a single cab mounted camera system that offers multi-season uses for unmatched versatility and productivity without compromising quality or functionality.

“SenseApply offers unparalleled flexibility, with a range of application methods that were previously unavailable in a single solution,” said Leo Bose, application equipment customer segmentation lead at Case IH. “It is also a cost effective solution with no annual subscriptions or per acre fees, driving efficiency and profitability for a grower.”

Multi-Application Uses Include:

• Selective Spray

- Green-on-Brown Spot Spray offers upgraded weed management.

- Base + Boost applies a consistent base rate over the entire boom, while boosting individual nozzle sections to a higher rate when passing over areas with higher weed pressure.

• Live Variable Rate Application (VRA)

- Burndown VRA

- Nitrogen VRA

- Harvest Aid VRA

- Plant Growth Regulator VRA

- Fungicide VRA

SenseApply technology includes lifetime Live VRA use and a one time activation fee for Selective Spray, eliminating both per acre fees and annual fees for the life of the device. The technology is designed for simple and efficient application at speeds of up to 25 mph, with the camera self calibrating to the crop within the first 150 feet during Live VRA. The SenseApply camera — which is mounted on top of the cab to maximize field of view — senses plant biomass and responds accordingly, depending on the application type the operator selected.

“With SenseApply, our customers will experience an integrated and streamlined approach to their application practices,” said Bose. “With multi-purpose functionality, operators can use this technology throughout the seasons.”

SenseApply also integrates with Case IH FieldOps and Raven Slingshot, enabling operators to connect and manage application data through their preferred platform. This integration increases overall operator efficiencies by providing real time data analysis and decision making capabilities while making it easier to align with agronomist recommendations.To find out more about the latest products, reach out to your local dealer or visit www.caseih.com

About Case IH. Case IH is a global leader in agricultural equipment, committed to collaborating with its customers to develop the most powerful, productive, reliable equipment — designed to meet today’s agricultural challenges. With headquarters in the United States, Case IH has a network of dealers and distributors that operates in over 160 countries. Case IH provides agricultural equipment systems, flexible financial service offerings and parts and service support for professional farmers and commercial operators through a dedicated network of professional dealers and distributors. Productivity enhancing products include tractors; combines and harvesters; hay and forage equipment; tillage tools; planting and seeding systems; sprayers and applicators; and site specific farming tools.

S.C. harolaiS NewS

By GEORGEANNE WEBB, S.C. Charolais Association

Sorry about no article last month. I was sick for almost a month with the crud that everyone I know has had — the never ending cold with coughing and sneezing but no

fever. I am finally getting well just in time for the pollen season, so here we go again.

I did attend the S.C. Cattlemen’s Association meeting in Clemson. The speaker was Troy Rowan from the University of Tennessee. He is originally from Iowa and grew up on a Charolais seedstock farm. I knew I had to go after I read that because, if I didn’t, they would talk about me since there are so few Charolais breeders in South Carolina. It was great to see old friends like Dr. Patty Scharko whom I have not seen in a long time.

There is not much to report as sales do not start until April in Knoxville. We will go, but I don’t have anything old enough to consign since my heifers have been bought out by a pretty little blonde haired girl in Donalds, South Carolina. She wants to get some more heifers in a few months after I wean again.

Plan on attending the Appalachian Sale in April. From what I understand, I-40 is now drivable, so we won’t have to visit Atlanta and Chattanooga to get there. Mercy, I don’t want to ever do that again.

SATURDAY • APRIL 26, 2025 • 1:00 PM

NEWS

NEW — DMI & $Gain Now Published on Every Animal. The American Simmental Association has officially released the $Gain economic subindex, as well as the Dry Matter Intake (DMI) Expected Progeny Difference (EPD) in an alpha release format on Herdbook. The purpose of these traits is to help breeders better characterize terminal performance by evaluating genetic differences for feed intake and the profitability potential associated with growth relative to intake.

One of the more recent concerns in the business has been related to feed “efficiency” in feeder cattle. The reason for the quotes around “efficiency” is that in many cases, the tools developed to address feed conversion have been related to biological efficiency rather than economic efficiency, which can sometimes be antagonistic to meaningful improvement. A solution to this is the $Gain economic subindex developed by International Genetic Solutions to more appropriately address selection for improved feedlot performance by optimizing the economic efficiency during the finishing phase. Unlike traditional single trait selection for dry matter intake (DMI) or residual feed intake (RFI), $Gain balances both the economic component of average daily gain (ADG) and DMI, ensuring that the most profitable animals are identified. The result of $Gain is already factored into both $API and $TI, meaning we already factor the relationship of value of gain to the cost of intake in both indexes.

The $Gain prediction is expressed as the difference in daily profitability of animals in the feedlot based on their combination of DMI and ADG expected progeny differences (EPD). ADG is positively weighted by the value of a pound of gain, and DMI is negatively weighted by the cost of a pound of dry matter.

ASA Geneticist Lane Giess answered the most common questions ASA has received since the release of DMI and $Gain:

How are DMI and $Gain factored into $API and $TI? The relationship of the value of gain against the cost of intake is, and has already been, factored into $API and $TI since their inception. Because of the high genetic correlation between growth and intake, a pseudo prediction for intake was developed using growth phenotypes and integrated into the indexes in the same structure as the $Gain prediction. This pseudo prediction for intake does not, however, incorporate actual feed intake records, thus the development and subsequent release of DMI. Development is still underway to migrate the new DMI EPD into the calculation of $API and $TI.

Why are the DMI and $Gain predictions only updated monthly? Currently, the DMI and $Gain evaluation is performed monthly. Development is still underway to integrate the DMI and $Gain evaluation into the weekly IGS multi-breed genetic evaluation. For this

reason and until full integration with IGS, the evaluation is initiated at the start of every month, with predictions published shortly after.

What should I consider when factoring DMI into my decision making? Producers should exercise caution when making genetic selections based solely on DMI reduction. Studies have shown there is a high genetic correlation between DMI and Average Daily Gain (ADG), meaning that sole selection for reduced intake can inadvertently lead to slower growing, smaller framed cattle. Selection on biological efficiency does not always equate to profitability, thus the recommendation for considering $Gain in your selection decisions.

If you have more questions about evaluating and utilizing DMI and $Gain, contact ASA Geneticist, Lane Giess at giess@simmgene.com

Foundation Registration Reminders — Don’t Forget the DNA! Don’t forget that Foundation registrations can sometimes be a two step process.

Continue reading to learn more about the process and requirements:

1. Registration - To register a foundation animal (i.e., animal registered by a different breed association), submit a copy of the primary association’s registration certificate (or a snapshot from the online registry) to ASA. Include your membership account number for billing. This process is handled by ASA staff.

2. DNA Transfer - DNA transfer from the primary association is not automatic. If DNA needs to be transferred, contact the primary association to request the DNA be sent to ASA. Foundation-registered animals used as AI sires or donor dams must meet ASA’s DNA requirements. Herdsires born on or after January 1, 2025, will also be required to meet ASA’s DNA requirement when the time comes to register their progeny.

Questions? Contact the Frontline Services team at simmental@ simmgene.com or the DNA team at dna@simmgene.com.

Price Adjustment Notification — uLD Genomic Panel & Semen

Sample Processing Fees. Due to increased costs from ASA’s contracted laboratory, ASA will be raising the price of the ultra Low Density (uLD or 9K) genomic panel and the processing fees for semen samples, effective immediately. These price adjustments are essential to cover rising expenses and production costs, and we thank you for your understanding.

If you have any questions, contact the DNA department at dna@ simmgene.com

DNA Test for Bovine Congestive Heart Failure (BCHF) Risk Now

Available. A test estimating a genomic prediction for risk for development of Bovine Congestive Heart Failure (BCHF) is now available as an add on to the GGP100K ($9.50) or a standalone test ($19.50). This is not an IGS prediction. It is a molecular breeding value based on the Simplot and Neogen partnership studying heart failure in feedlot cattle. Because this is a molecular breeding value, results will be based solely on the DNA marker information and will not include other pertinent information that goes into EPD like pedigree, breed, and performance records. The test returns a molecular breeding value for the risk of progeny developing heart scores correlated to BCHF (lower number is better). The average accuracy of animals tested is 0.32 (standard deviation 0.09). At this time, the results will be reported through an email but not uploaded to Herdbook. Please

SGBI News continued on the next page

Simmental News continued from the previous page

contact Jackie Atkins at jatkins@simmgene.com with any questions.

STYLE Program Returns. The 2025 STYLE Program will take place in Bozeman, Mont., from June 23–25. Hosted by the American Simmental Association, this leadership training program is designed for individuals ages 25–45 seeking to develop leadership skills and expand their professional networks.

Participation is limited to the first 20 registrants. Registration closes on May 7 or when full. As an added incentive, members who refer a participant who registers and attends the STYLE Program will have their 2025–2026 annual service fee waived.

About the American Simmental Association. Founded in 1968, the American Simmental Association is headquartered in Bozeman, Montana. ASA is committed to leveraging technology, education, and collaboration to accelerate genetic profitability for the beef industry. In keeping with its commitment, ASA and its partners formed International Genetic Solutions — the world’s largest genetic evaluation of beef cattle. Learn more at www.simmental.org

The Simmental Trail

By JENNIE RUCKER, N.C. Simmental Association

Brooke Harward hird as new N.C. Simmental Association Executive Secretary. Brooke Harward of Richfield assumes the position of Executive Secretary on March 1. She really needs no introduction because she is a young lady who has grown up among the cattle producers of North Carolina and is very well known. She also works hard with Mid-Atlantic Cattle Sales and the family business of Harward Livestock Marketing. She has wanted to work closely

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with a breed association, and she is excited to begin working with Simmental producers in this state and in other areas of the southeast.

Brooke has been involved in the commercial cattle industry all her life but got involved with purebred cattle in 2006 when she and her sisters began showing cattle. She has exhibited both purebred and percentage Simmental cattle. She is in charge of all the registrations of purebred cattle through Harward Sisters Cattle Company.

She received a bachelor of science in agricultural business management with a minor in accounting from N.C. State University and did it as a summa cum laude graduate, no less! She is very skilled in marketing and also in all things computer and should be a great asset in keeping the N.C. Simmental Association digitally active! In Brooke’s own words, “I am a dedicated, customer oriented professional with self motivated drive to work with industry customers and partners to help them meet their goals and objectives.” The N.C. Simmental Association is excited about what Brooke Harward can do for the future of Simmental genetics in North Carolina!

Please make note of these changes — The new address for the association will be N.C. Simmental Association, P.O. Box 262, Richfield, NC 28137. The new email is ncsimmental@gmail.com . We are in the process of keeping the same phone number as the old office, but it is not finalized at this time, so bear with us. Brooke’s cell phone number is 704-322-9770.

Thank you for the memories! This will be my last Simmental Trail column, but I believe Brooke hopes to continue as much as possible.

I have truly enjoyed getting to know cattle producers across the state and even in other states. Cattle people are the best people. Thank you so much for the memories! Many of you helped me as Phil and I raised our four children, and I appreciate the friendship of each and every one of you! Hopefully, I will see you around the state at various events, and maybe this time, I will even have more time to visit with you! Until then…

1 MILE OF PASTURE MANAGEMENT FENCING SUPPLIES AWARDED TO THE NCCA COUNTY CATTLEMEN’S ASSOCIATION RECRUITING THE MOST NEW MEMBERS IN 2024

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE CLeveland COUNTY CATTLEMEN’S ASSOCIATION

2024 MILE OF FENCE WINNER

Pasture Management Systems, Inc.

MILE OF FENCE PROGRAM

New Members by County in 2025

(as of 3-13-25)

Alamance 3

Alexander 1

Alleghany 0

Anson 1 Ashe 0

Avery 0

Beaufort 0 Bertie 0

Bladen 0

Brunswick 0

Buncombe 2

Burke 1

Cabarrus 2

Caldwell 2

Camden 0

Carteret 0

Caswell 3

Catawba 17

Chatham 0

Cherokee 0

Chowan 0 Clay 1

Cleveland 3

Columbus 0

Craven 0

New NCCA Members for 2025

During the Membership Committee meeting held at the 2007 N.C. Cattle Conference, members decided to list the name and county of residence of those who recently joined as a NEW member of the NCCA in The Carolina Cattle Connection. A new member is someone who has never been a member or has rejoined after a brief break in their membership. Below is a list of NCCA’s new members:

Out-of-State

Brookfield Farm – Virginia

Travis Young – Georgia

Buncombe

Robert Reynolds – Brooks Cove Farms

Cabarrus County

Eva Burton – Burton Aberdeens

Caldwell County

Nicholas Wilcox – Double U Farm

Clay County

James & Rebekah Jarrard – Up-Hill End Farm

Cleveland County

Abigail Edwards

Ian Hunnell

Belle Westbrook – 4B Farm

Cumberland County

108 Farms

David Clay Autry – Autry Cattle Farms

Heath Diersen – Diersen Farms

Duplin County

Sam Rabon – Rabon Farms

Daniel Ramirez – Eco System Farms Inc.

Edgecombe County

Daniel Calhoun – Calhoun Farm

Franklin County

Wayne Young

Greene County

Brent Murphy – Diamond M Cattle

Harnett County

Keith Chatellier – KNK Farms

Haywood County

Tyler Lanning – Lanning Farms

Henderson County

James Brewer

Hoke County

Justin Whitley – Trigger Farms

Iredell County

Nancy Arauz – Eyrie Summit Farm

Kenny Godwin – The Valley Cattle Company

Loren Speaks – R&S Farm

Lee County

John Hackney

Lincoln County

John Simmons – Simmons Farms

Moore County

Hollie Seawell – Cross Creek Ranch

Jerrell Seawell – Cross Creek Ranch

Onslow County

William Bryan – Matthew’s Family Farm & Cattle

Pasquotank County

Daniel Haines – Triple H Cattle

Pitt County

Ken Manning – Manning Farm

Brad Pass – Oak Cattle Farms

Randolph County

Mike Smith – Smith Farms

Robeson County

Dennis Currie – Currie Farm

Stokes County

Adam Stewart – Stewart’s Wood Products Inc.

Surry County

Molly Willey – Bolevine Meadow Farm

Wake County

Madelyn Young

Wayne County

Glenn W. Hood – H Farms

Anna McCullen-Parker – M.F. McCullen Farms

Cody Pipkin – JCS Livestock

Wilkes County

Brandon & Hannah Barker

John & Kim Barker

Mitch Griffin – Griffin Farm

UPDATE

Grady Green Elected IBBA President. The International Brangus Breeders Association (IBBA) has elected Grady Green of El Dorado, Ark., as its president for the 2025–2026 term. A lifelong cattleman, Green brings extensive experience in both registered and commercial Brangus operations. He currently serves as president of Draggin’ M Ranch, one of the largest registrars of Brangus cattle in the U.S., and is an active member of CDP Brangus, a genetic marketing program comprised of six Brangus breeders.

Green is serving his second term on the IBBA Board of Directors and has held several leadership positions within the IBBA, the IBBA’s committees, the Southeast Brangus Breeders Association, and the Texas Brangus Breeders Association. In 2024, he was honored as the IBBA Breeder of the Year, the organization’s highest recognition.

Raised on the renowned Brinks Brangus and Camp Cooley Ranches, Green developed a passion for the breed early in life. As a high school student, he worked at Camp Cooley Ranch, where he managed up to 1,000 bulls on gain test, assisted with donor cow programs, and oversaw key aspects of ranch operations. This early handson experience gave him a deep understanding of cattle breeding, development, and marketing.

Since 2009, Green has served as the general manager of Draggin’ M Ranch, becoming president in 2024. He played a key role in founding CDP Brangus Partners and continues to oversee its programs and annual sales.

A 2009 graduate of the Texas Christian University Ranch Management School, Green lives on the ranch in El Dorado with his wife, Sara, and their two children.

Still Collecting Names for the IBBA Calf Scramble List! Calling all breeders — big and small! You don’t have to be a large ranch or big time breeder to be part of the IBBA Calf Scramble List. We welcome all operations, no matter the size!

- All you need is one animal for sale.

- It’s fine if animals are only available seasonally or not year round. The IBBA Calf Scramble Program connects youth who’ve

earned scramble certificates at major livestock shows with IBBA breeders who have animals available for purchase. It’s an amazing way to support the next generation of cattlemen and women while promoting your own breeding program. If you’ve been on the fence, now’s the time to jump in!

If you’d like to be added or if you have any questions, contact us at cdelarm@gobrangus.com or 210-696-8231!

About the International Brangus Breeders Association . The International Brangus Breeders Association (IBBA), headquartered in San Antonio, Tex., strives to provide the commercial cattle industry, domestically and internationally, with the best genetics possible. Founded in 1949 as the American Brangus Breeders, the organization has since evolved into the IBBA. The IBBA’s purpose is to enable its members to produce quality beef for the commercial cattle industry and its consumers. For more information about IBBA, visit www.gobrangus.com N.C. Cattle Receipts, Trends, and Prices for the Month of FEBRUARY

Run the Numbers on Your Deworming Program. The technology of an extended release dewormer can boost ROI over the grazing period with a single dose. The risk of parasites during the grazing season can loom the whole summer, but most deworming products are unable to provide protection for the entire duration. Knowing what products are available and choosing the right product for the season are important for herd production and growth potential.

“If you’re going to have cattle grazing for an extended period, then you’re definitely going to want long term protection against parasites,” said Lee Jones, DVM, Boehringer Ingelheim. Over the course of the grazing season, an extended release injectable dewormer can do just that — giving cattle the ability to use feed more efficiently and ultimately gain more weight, day in and day out.1

Secure the advantage of an extended release dewormer – “Oral dewormers, or purge dewormers, are in and out of the system within a few days and are typically used at the end of the grazing season, when an animal is less likely to be reinfected,” explained Dr. Jones. “And our pour-ons and regular injectables will give us about 30 days of control.” There is a time and place for each of these dewormers, but when cattle are out on pasture for months at a time, it is important to find a product that can provide long term control.

The technology of an extended release injectable dewormer can provide coverage for up to 150 days1 in one dose. This lengthened protection improves reproduction, shortens calving intervals, earns higher average daily gains, and leads to heavier calves at weaning.2,3

“When I introduce an extended release dewormer to producers, the first thing they talk about is the cost,” shared Dr. Jones. “It does cost more, but everything we do in the cattle business is an economic decision. Although the upfront cost might make a producer second guess the purchase, the lower stress and added calf weight gain provide a significant payoff.”

Switching dewormers is a big decision that might be difficult to justify without running some numbers. Dr. Jones invites producers and veterinarians to use an investment calculator to see a detailed estimate of what can be gained by using an extended release injectable dewormer. Calculator versions for cow/calf and stocker operations are available online at longrangecalculator.com and longrangecalculator.com/stocker, respectively.

Get the most out of your deworming program – “There are several things that we recommend producers do to get the most

out of their deworming program,” said Dr. Jones. “One is to always monitor the effectiveness of whatever you do with diagnostic testing.”

There are a few tests that can evaluate the efficacy of any deworming program:

• A fecal egg count reduction test, or FECRT, is a standardized diagnostic tool that can help evaluate the efficacy of your deworming products. Typically, a 90 percent or greater reduction in the fecal egg count indicates that your dewormer is performing the way it’s supposed to.

• A coproculture can help find the species of parasites most prevalent within the herd, so you can implement a targeted approach to parasite control.

It’s also difficult for the dewormer to do its job if not administered correctly. Read the label to be certain the product is stored correctly, the dose you’re administering is accurate for the weight of the animal you’re treating, and that your equipment is properly functioning prior to treating the animals.

Every producer’s situation is unique, and no two farms have the same parasite burdens. Dr. Jones recommends working with your veterinarian to build the best deworming protocol for your operation. They can help evaluate your operation’s needs and recommend a deworming protocol and products based on the findings. Your grazing season period, the age and class of your animals, your operation type, and the grazing history of the pasture are all considerations to discuss.

References

1 Dependent upon parasite species, as referenced in FOI summary and LongRange (eprinomectin) product label claims.

2Rademacher, R.D., Behlke, E.J., Parr, S.L., et al. An evaluation of eprinomectin extended release injectable (LONGRANGE) on the performance of yearling cattle on pasture in western Canada. Bov Pract 2018;52(1):46–52.

3Andresen, C.E., Loy, D.D., Brick, T.A., Gunn, P.J. Case study: Effects of extended-release eprinomectin on cow/calf performance and reproductive success in a fall calving beef herd. Prof Anim Sci 2018;34(2):223–229.

About Boehringer Ingelheim . Boehringer Ingelheim provides innovation for preventing and treating diseases in animals. The company offers a wide range of vaccines, parasite control products, and medicines for pets, horses, and livestock to veterinarians, animal owners, farmers, and governments. As a leader in animal health, Boehringer Ingelheim values that the health of humans and animals is deeply connected and strives to make a difference for people, animals, and society. Learn more at www.bi-animalhealth.com

S.C. Cattlemen’s Association 2025 Annual Meeting

NEWS Planning Your Spring Mineral Program

By HARRISON SMITH

As early spring arrives, beef cattle will graze on lush pastures that may lack essential minerals and vitamins necessary for optimal health and productivity. Implementing a strategic supplementation program using Crystalyx low moisture blocks can effectively address these nutritional gaps.

Understanding early spring nutritional challenges - In early spring, rapidly growing grasses often provide plenty of energy and protein but may be deficient in crucial minerals such as phosphorus and magnesium, plus key trace minerals like copper, zinc, and selenium. These deficiencies can lead to lower performance and also to health issues like grass tetany, particularly in older, lactating cows. High moisture content in spring forages can also reduce mineral concentrations, adding more risk for potential deficiencies.

Selecting the appropriate Crystalyx product - Choosing the right Crystalyx formulation depends on specific herd requirements and forage conditions. For early spring, when grass tetany is a concern, selecting a supplement with adequate magnesium like the Crystalyx SuperMAG or Crystalyx Blueprint 17 Mag levels is a great insurance policy. In other scenarios, products like Crystalyx Blueprint 6% Phos or Crystalyx Mineral-lyx are designed to provide a balanced mix of minerals and vitamins to support cattle health during this period.

Implementing Crystalyx in your nutrition program - To effectively incorporate Crystalyx trace mineral supplements:

• Assess forage quality - Evaluate the mineral content of your available forage to determine the specific supplementation needs of your herd.

• Select the appropriate product - Choose a Crystalyx product that aligns with your herd’s nutritional requirements and complements your forage base.

• Monitor consumption - Regularly observe intake levels to ensure that cattle are consuming the supplements as intended and adjust placement or quantity as necessary.

• Complementary practices - Continue to provide free choice salt and ensure constant access to clean, fresh water to support overall health and supplement efficacy.

Advantages of Crystalyx low moisture blocks - Crystalyx low moisture blocks offer a palatable and consistent method for delivering essential nutrients to grazing cattle. Key benefits include:

• Controlled intake - The hardness of the block ensures that cattle consume the supplement through licking, preventing overconsumption and promoting uniform nutrient intake across the herd.

• Weather resistance - Unlike loose mineral supplements that can be affected by wind and rain, Crystalyx blocks remain stable in various weather conditions, ensuring continuous availability without significant waste.

• Ease of use - Crystalyx blocks require minimal labor and equipment. Producers can place the blocks in strategic locations to encourage optimal grazing patterns and supplement intake.

• Fly control options - Most products in the Crystalyx mineral family have a fly control option available. It’s important to start implementing a fly control product early to stay ahead.

By incorporating Crystalyx low moisture blocks into your spring management plan, you can effectively address potential mineral and vitamin deficiencies, supporting the health and productivity of your beef cattle during this critical period.

SCCA Foundation Scholarships

Ellie Harman

Roscoe Kyle Memorial Scholarship in Applied Agriculture

$1,000

Hometown - Leesville, S.C.

College Attending - Clemson University

Major - Plant & Environmental Sciences

Kaitlyn Patterson

Applied Agriculture Scholarship

$1,000

Hometown - Seneca, S.C.

College Attending - Clemson University

Major - Agriculture Education

Julianna Smith

Applied Agriculture Scholarship

$500

Hometown - Newberry, S.C.

College Attending - Presbyterian College

Major - Biology/Pre-Vet

Raegan Griggs

Non-Agriculture Scholarship

$1,000

Hometown - Patrick, S.C.

College Attending - Clemson University

Major - Criminal Justice

Kerrington S. Pinckney

Non-Agriculture Scholarship

$500

Hometown - Dalzell, S.C.

College Attending - Wofford College

Major - Sociology

Campbell Ballard

Non-Agriculture Scholarship

$500

Hometown - Fountain Inn, S.C.

College Attending - TBD (High School)

Major - Plans to major in Business

SCCA Foundation Scholarships

An Industry First. The American Wagyu Association is pleased to introduce the Authentic Wagyu program, offering two unique marketing options for Wagyu beef producers!

Wagyu beef options will become more abundant to allow the consumer to locate Wagyu beef as participation growth in each of these programs increases. These programs are designed to be accessible to all Wagyu producers to provide a consistent, high

quality product; born and raised in the United States.

1. The Authentic Wagyu USDA Certified Meat Program is designed to differentiate the outstanding quality of American Wagyu beef. Consumers, restaurants, foodservice, and processors can be confident that their Authentic Wagyu branded purchase is always USDA Prime quality beef.

2. The Authentic Wagyu USDA Process Verified Program (PVP) creates an exclusive “gate-to-plate” marketing opportunity for U.S. Wagyu producers. The American Wagyu Association worked extensively with both the USDA Agricultural Marketing Service and Food Safety Inspection Service for approval of one of the most unique USDA PVPs to date, including both the grading standards of the Authentic Wagyu USDA Certified Meat Program and USDA verification of product traceability from the rancher to the consumer.

For more information about how you can become an Authentic Wagyu partner, contact the American Wagyu Association at 208262-8100 or authentic@wagyu.org.

About the American Wagyu Association. The American Wagyu Association, Inc. was incorporated in Texas on March 14, 1990, and serves to register Wagyu and promote the breed throughout the U.S., Canada, and other countries. The Association headquarters is located at the University of Idaho Research Park, Post Falls, Idaho. The American Wagyu Association has a vibrant membership base that continues to promote and develop the Wagyu influence in America and worldwide.

CATTLE EQUIPMENT

The opportunities Wagyu beef can offer are endless. Wagyu genetics cater to producers targeting the high end restaurant trade with highly marbled beef to the seedstock producer, supplying the cow/calf producers with a crossbred alternative that will offer calving ease and premium carcass quality in a single cross, which no other beef breed can.

Wagyu has a vital role to play in today’s beef industry, increasing the quality of red meat produced that health conscious consumer demand.

FFederation oF

State BeeF CounCilS update

aces of the Federation. For more than 60 years, grassroots producer engagement has driven the demand for beef through the Federation of State Beef Councils. States voluntarily invest in the Federation to build beef demand by inspiring, unifying, and supporting an effective and coordinated state and national Checkoff partnership. Ultimately, it is cattle producers from coast to coast who direct the Federation’s work, and we celebrate their dedication. These are the “Faces of the Federation.”

Andy Kellom

Born and raised in southeast Idaho, college brought Andy Kellom to Montana, where he and his wife created a home with their three children. Kellom has been involved in the cattle industry his entire life and now manages a feedlot, stocker operation, and farm in central Montana. From the time he was old enough to decide what he wanted to do in life, being involved in the cattle industry is the only thing Kellom ever wanted. He became a member of the Montana Beef Council nearly a decade ago and has served the Federation of State Beef Councils as a director, past Region V Federation vice president, and now a member of the Beef Promotion Operating Committee.

How does the Federation of State Beef Councils impact the beef industry? The value of being a volunteer leader is that we all have input on the process. All the people involved in Checkoff meetings are producers from all over the United States; we all have input on what happens at the Federation with our Checkoff dollars.

The Federation of State Beef Councils brings us together. We provide input, and we work in one direction together. The Federation benefits all of us, sometimes in different ways, but the collective effort moves us forward so that each state is not recreating programs. To me, sharing resources has a powerful impact on our industry.

What are some of the benefits of investing in the Federation? Montana uses Federation services extensively. We don’t have to go out and hire a web designer; we don’t have to hire a graphic designer. Those things are available to us through the Federation, and the content and the quality that we’re able to get are second to none. We couldn’t do the quality of work on our own, and if we could, it would cost us a lot of money, but being members of the Federation of State Beef Councils, we have access to critical services, as does every other state.

Why do you think the Federation continues to be vital? E ven after 60 years, the Federation continues to be vital because we have a vastly different consumer today than we did when the Federation began. The Federation of State Beef Councils really helps us understand the consumer and then gets beef in front of consumers in a way that encourages them to purchase our product. At the end of the day, we’re putting more beef on more plates. That is the job of the Federation, and it remains just as vital today.

What is the most important message you’d like to share about the Federation? My message to producers is that just because you don’t see it, just because you don’t touch it, doesn’t mean it’s not working for you every day. One of the challenges that we have as an industry is that we’re widespread and independent.

My goal is to help producers understand that these research, education, and promotion programs are happening every day on their behalf.

If producers have questions about what’s happening with Checkoff dollars, I encourage them to come and see the Federation of State Beef Councils at work. It’s completely driven by producer input from top to bottom. Producers guiding the work of the Federation do everything they can to ensure we get the best bang for our buck. The advantage of the Federation is pooling resources and finding projects that have the most impact.

My hope for the future of the cattle industry is that the work we’re doing through the Federation of State Beef Councils helps us maintain a viable industry. I would like my kids to have the same opportunity that I’ve had to find a career and a path in an industry I truly love. I believe that the Federation and the work of the Beef Checkoff are going to help us create a thriving industry for the next generation.

CATTLEMEN’S UPDATE

Cattlemen’s Beef Board Unveils 2024 Impact Report. New Report Provides In-Depth Look at Beef Checkoff’s Finances, Programs, and Results. The Cattlemen’s Beef Board (CBB) has released its 2024 Impact Report. Unlike previous annual reports, this format includes the Cattlemen’s Beef Board’s annual financial statement and Beef Checkoff program evaluations — all in one document.

“Over the past few years, we’ve continued to face diminishing Checkoff dollars, the spread of misinformation from opposing groups, and increasing competition in the protein marketplace,” said Andy Bishop, 2024 CBB chair. “This new Impact Report is designed to better demonstrate how, even in the face of those challenges, the Beef Checkoff

continues to promote beef to consumers, conduct essential research, and educate the public about beef’s incredible benefits and value.”

The 2024 Impact Report outlines each of the FY24 authorization requests funded by the Beef Checkoff in the program areas of promotion, research, consumer information, industry information, foreign marketing, and producer communications. Information provided for each authorization request includes the contractors/ subcontractors handling the work, available funding, description/ purpose, accomplishments, and results. The report also details each authorization request’s tactics, progress toward measurable objectives, key learnings, and performance efficiency measures. In this way, beef industry stakeholders can get a clearer picture of their Beef Checkoff dollars at work.

Within the new report, readers will also find numerous colorful and engaging infographics that share interesting data from the annual Producer Attitude Survey, the Consumer Beef Tracker, and the 2024 Return on Investment (ROI) and Broader Economic Impact Study. Easy-to-scan QR codes quickly link to websites with additional information about the CBB, the Beef Checkoff, and the award winning producer newsletter, The Drive.

“I hope everyone who wants to know more about the Beef Checkoff will take a few minutes to explore the 2024 Impact Report,” said Greg Hanes, the CBB’s CEO. “This report provides a true snapshot of the incredible work Checkoff contractors have done over the past year, while also sharing insights that will shape our efforts in 2025 and beyond. The Beef Checkoff and its programs are truly a collaborative effort, and it’s clear the Checkoff is funding essential work to keep beef the protein of choice.”

For more information about the Beef Checkoff and its programs, including promotion, research, foreign marketing, industry information, consumer information, and safety, contact the Cattlemen’s Beef Board at 303-220-9890 or visit DrivingDemandForBeef.com.

About the Beef Checkoff. The Beef Checkoff Program was established as part of the 1985 Farm Bill. The checkoff assesses $1 per head on the sale of live domestic and imported cattle, in addition to a comparable assessment on imported beef and beef products. States may retain up to 50¢ on the dollar and forward the other 50¢ per head to the Cattlemen’s Beef Promotion and Research Board, which administers the national checkoff program, subject to USDA approval.

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“Champions” too. For expert A.I., superior genetics, the best in purebreds and outstanding farm supplies, check the Classifieds in this issue!

Smoked Herd Rib Roast

Total Time — 7 hours, 15 minutes

8–16 pounds beef ribeye roast

Herb Paste

¼ cup olive oil

2 tablespoons kosher salt

2 tablespoons freshly ground black pepper

1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh rosemary

1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh thyme

1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh sage

Garnish

1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Combine oil, salt, pepper, rosemary, thyme, and sage in a small bowl to form a paste. Spread evenly onto all surfaces of the beef ribeye roast.

Add wood chunks, chips, or pellets to the smoker according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Preheat the smoker to 225°F.

Insert an ovenproof meat thermometer, so the tip is centered in the thickest part of the roast, not resting in fat or touching the

bone. Place the roast in the smoker, rib side down, according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Set timer for 6 hours depending on desired smoke flavor. Smoke roast 4–6 hours for medium doneness. Carefully remove roast from smoker when meat thermometer registers 135°F.

Preheat oven to 350°F. Place the roast, fat side up, in a shallow roasting pan for 30 minutes to 1 hour. Remove roast when meat thermometer registers 140°F for medium rare; 155°F for medium. Transfer roast to carving board; tent loosely with aluminum foil. Let stand 15 to 20 minutes. (Temperature will continue to rise about 5°F to reach 145°F for medium rare; 160°F for medium.)

Carve roast into slices between ribs. For thinner slices, remove the ribs, then carve. Season the roast with salt and parsley, as desired.

Makes 24 servings.

S.C. Cattle Receipts, Trends, and Prices for the Month of FEBRUARY 2025

Cattle Receipts: 8,403 • Previous Month: 7,857

A Message from the CEO Mouth Watering Success

By COLIN WOODALL, National Cattlemen’s Beef Association

At what price does the consumer give up beef for other proteins? That was the subject of many conversations I had during CattleCon in San Antonio. Most everybody I talked to was astonished the consumer continues to pay the prices they do for our beef. It’s a good conversation for the industry to have, but I don’t think we need to be astonished. We produce the most consistent, highest quality beef eating experience we’ve ever provided to our consumer. Quite simply, we make mouths water, and they want more.

However, the question of consumer satisfaction remains relevant, and the old saying, “You can’t manage what you don’t measure,” definitely applies here. In the past year or so, I’ve written several of my monthly articles on the importance of Checkoff funded research. NCBA’s Scientific Affairs team manages research on product quality, beef safety, nutrition, and sustainability. We also conduct market research and intelligence. Our team of market research professionals works every day to measure consumer sentiment, and their information provides valuable insight into where beef stands.

It seems that since the COVID-19 pandemic hit five years ago, it has been nothing but a roller coaster ride for all of us. Pandemic uncertainty, global conflicts, contentious elections, and inflation rates we haven’t seen for decades have worried most people. Many Americans turn to food as a way to escape the stress of daily life and find a little pleasure and enjoyment. Our beef provides that pleasure and enjoyment in a way that gets our consumers excited about their next beef meal, and the market research and intelligence work we conduct provides the data to substantiate these assertions.

During the Checkoff funded “Today’s Beef Consumer” session at CattleCon, the Market Research team shared the information they’ve compiled in the past year. In 2024, fresh beef sales at retail grocery stores were up 9.7 percent above 2023 sales. Ten percent year over year sales growth is an impressive number, especially when the data shows our primary competitor, chicken, was only up 3.9 percent. Probably even more satisfying to many of you is learning that meat alternative sales were down more than 14 percent. You must make the consumers’ mouths water, and meat alternatives just don’t do that. That is why Beyond Meat’s stock price is currently trading under $3 per share, versus almost $235 a share at its peak.

Our team spends a lot of time digging into the grocery store meat case to see what choices the consumer makes. While the consumer can tell you what they might do in a survey, it is their actual purchases that

give us data to gauge where we stand. Let’s take a look at beef’s market share of the meat case in terms of value. Last year, beef took 55% of the value, while chicken only took 27 percent. Now, many people look at this and say it’s because of beef’s price compared to that of chicken. No doubt price plays into this, so let’s see what beef’s market share is in terms of volume or pounds of beef sold. The data shows we are neck and neck with chicken. Pounds of beef sold give us a 36 percent market share, while chicken has 38 percent. Our market share is strong, and we are focused on using Checkoff funded research, education, and promotion programs to fight for even more of our share of the grocery meat case.

Market share isn’t all we look at. Our consumer data shows we beat chicken when it comes to being good for many types of meals. There are only so many ways you can prepare a boneless, skinless chicken breast. Beef, however, provides far more types of cuts and ways to prepare those cuts than any of our competitors. You can eat beef every day for months on end and never have the same dish. Thanks to cuts that vary, from brisket to tri-tip, sometimes deciding on which cut you want is the hardest job. Once you pick your cut, there are numerous recipes from www.BeefItsWhatsForDinner.com or any number of the social media influencers we partner with to create that perfect beef meal. In fact, when it comes to a pleasurable eating experience, the consumer is telling us that we beat chicken by almost 30 percent.

Consumers consistently rank us 15 percentage points ahead of chicken as a great source of protein. When we ask them which protein they believe is the most nutritious, we are currently their top pick, but we are still extremely close to chicken. We’ve come a long way since the dark days of the ‘80s and early ‘90s when chicken had us concerned about the future of our industry, which leads me to you. You are responsible for this success. When we ask the consumers if they have concerns with how cattle are raised for food, 66% say they have no concerns, and they have a tremendous amount of trust in what you do. In addition, it is your commitment to investing in genetic improvement, new technologies, improved production practices, and training such as BQA that has resulted in an increasing percentage of beef being graded USDA Choice or Prime. Continual improvement of our industry is giving us the advantage over our competition.

So, the next time you hear somebody say demand is dismal, or we are losing to chicken, you now have the facts to fire back. As long as we stay focused on consumer satisfaction and demand, the future will be bright for all of us.

NCBA President’s Report Leading Together

By BUCK WEHRBEIN, National Cattlemen’s Beef Association

Iam truly honored to serve as your new NCBA president. Your trust in me to lead this organization is humbling, and I thank you for that. As I step into this role, I do so with confidence, not because of anything I can accomplish alone, but because of the incredible people I stand alongside.

Your NCBA officer team is exceptional, and I am beyond impressed by their dedication, intelligence, and leadership. The same can be said for our board and, of course, our outstanding staff. Most importantly, I recognize the true strength of this association lies in its members. You are the backbone of our industry, the driving force behind our advocacy, and the reason we continue to grow and evolve. Your engagement, insights, and commitment to our shared mission, to serve the cattle and beef industry by improving the business climate, growing beef demand, and increasing the world’s access to U.S. beef, are what make this association so effective. As we navigate

the challenges and opportunities ahead, I want you to know that your voices matter, and we are doing everything we can to represent your interests. I encourage you to stay involved, share your perspectives, and work alongside us to shape the future of our industry.

I’ve been asked several times about my leadership style as I step into this role. While I’ve never been accused of having much style, I have spent a lot of time thinking about leadership and its importance in guiding our work. Here’s what I believe in. I believe in honest conversations, in pushing each other to think critically, and in learning from how we engage with one another. But above all, I believe in listening and, more importantly, truly hearing you. I will be honest. I will treat every member of this association with respect. I very much look forward to meeting you and working with you in the coming year.

We are stepping into a year full of unknowns. When I first considered what this year might bring, I thought, “Maybe it’ll be a quiet one.” That lasted about five minutes. From emerging threats like the New World screwworm to shifts in policy and leadership appointments, it’s clear that we will have no shortage of things to tackle.

Looking ahead, I urge all of us to invest in the next generation of industry leaders. We need to encourage young producers to get involved in our association, just as past mentors have done for many of us. Programs like the Young Cattlemen’s Conference are invaluable, and I can tell you firsthand that the talent and preparedness of today’s young professionals are remarkable. They bring fresh perspectives, and it’s our job to ensure they have the opportunity to lead. You’ll hear me reference a commitment to young producers quite a bit in the coming year.

NCBA is also laser focused on securing tax relief provisions and pushing back on regulatory overreach in the year ahead. And we can’t forget about our consumer. We heard it time and again from economic and market research experts during our annual convention a few weeks ago; consumer demand is strong, and we need to keep it that way, and we will because we produce the best beef in the world.

As I embark on this year of service, I look forward to visiting as many of you as possible and working together to advance this great industry. NCBA is in a position of strength, and we can be proud of that while also working together to improve upon it.

God bless, and happy trails.

NCBA Announces 2025 Policy Priorities. The NCBA Executive Committee approved the organization’s policy priorities at CattleCon 2025. This year, the focus will be on engaging with the Trump Administration and Congress to expand opportunities for producer profitability.

“NCBA will continue advocating for passage of a long term Farm Bill and pushing to extend the critical tax provisions in the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act that expire at the end of the year. We will also be continuing to fight for more flexibility for grazing and voluntary conservation work that is vital to preventing catastrophic wildfires that have been raging across the country,” said NCBA President-Elect and Nebraska cattleman Buck Wehrbein. “Over the past few years, producers have been increasingly squeezed by onerous regulatory burdens, including unscientific Endangered Species Act listings and the rapidly changing enforcement of the Corporate Transparency Act. This government overreach has prevented meaningful conservation efforts, leaving America’s treasured natural resources in worse condition and has left cattle producers in a position of great uncertainty, with soaring legal and accounting bills. NCBA is laser-focused on advancing federal policies that will help improve the general business climate and give producers more opportunities moving forward to increase the profitability of their operations.”

Some of NCBA’s 2025 Policy Priorities include:

• Work to retain core wins in the 2024 House Agriculture Committee passed Farm Bill.

• Preserve family farms and ranches for future generations by advocating for essential tax relief for cattle producers.

• Fight for meaningful long-term relief from the burdensome reporting requirements of the Corporate Transparency Act.

• Enhance wildfire prevention by utilizing targeted grazing, controlled burns, and forest management practices to protect grazing lands.

• Keep working lands working by protecting family farms from undue regulatory burdens under the Endangered Species Act, National Environmental Policy Act, and many other key regulations.

Cattlemen Thank Trump Administration for Protecting Small Businesses from Corporate Transparency Act. NCBA recently thanked President Donald Trump and U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent for suspending enforcement of the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA) and limiting the scope of the law to protect family farms and ranches from excessive regulations.

“Family farmers and ranchers across the country are breathing a sigh of relief thanks to President Trump and Secretary Bessent suspending the Corporate Transparency Act reporting requirements for American citizens,” said NCBA President Buck Wehrbein, a Nebraska cattleman. “We appreciate President Trump’s common sense approach and continued support for rural America and the hardworking cattle producers who feed our nation.”

For months, the CTA reporting requirements have been subject to litigation, temporary enforcement pauses, and other changes

National Cattlemen’s Beef Association

NEWS

that have created confusion for small business owners across the country. The announcement from the U.S. Department of the Treasury provides some short-term protection from the CTA’s enforcement penalties while the agency works to craft new regulations that protect U.S. citizens from burdensome reporting requirements.

“For over a year, cattle producers have been extremely concerned with the ever changing direction of the Corporate Transparency Act and the steep punishment associated with non-compliance,” said NCBA Executive Director of Government Affairs Kent Bacus. “Without President Trump’s intervention, millions of small business owners may have been in violation of the law. We greatly appreciate Treasury developing a new rule that provides certainty for small businesses and protects American agriculture.”

NCBA continues to encourage cattle producers to consult with their attorney and/or tax professional about this latest development.

NCBA Members

Testify Before Congress on Key Priorities.

Producers Testify on the State of the Cattle Industry and Predator Reintroduction. Recently, two members of NCBA testified before two separate congressional committees on policy priorities for the cattle industry and to share their personal experience with dangerous predator reintroduction.

Troy Sander, a Kansas cattle producer and president of the Kansas Livestock Association, appeared before the House Agriculture Committee urging policymakers to pass a farm bill, pass tax legislation to protect family farms and ranches, and strengthen policies that protect our food security.

“Cattle producers are seeing higher prices for their livestock, but the entire industry continues to face pressure from rising input costs, taxes, and overregulation coming from Washington,” said Sander. “I urge Congress to pass new legislation that lowers taxes and finally ends the death tax, pass a farm bill, protect beef promotion efforts, and roll back harmful regulations that hurt farmers and ranchers.”

Kent Clark, a Washington rancher and member of the Washington Cattlemen’s Association, addressed the House Natural Resources Committee to explain his experiences with the reintroduction of dangerous predator species in rural communities throughout the West.

“Too often, Washington bureaucrats pursue policies like reintroducing experimental populations of dangerous wolves and grizzly bears right in the heart of ranching communities. Sadly, ranchers like me have seen the devastating impact of these decisions with these predators harming our cattle and threatening rural residents,” said Clark. “My message to Congress is to listen to rural communities and rethink policies that may sound good in Washington but will make life harder in rural America.”

United States Cattle Producers Hail New WOTUS Guidance.

Recently, NCBA Chief Counsel Mary-Thomas Hart issued the following statement in response to the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) release of guidance for implementing the “continuous surface connection” definition under the Waters of the United States

(WOTUS) rule.

“For years, NCBA has worked across the federal government — educating members of Congress, participating in agency rulemakings, and fighting for cattle producers in federal court — to secure a WOTUS definition that protects both our nation’s natural resources and Americans’ property rights. We are proud of the Trump Administration’s effort to further conform the WOTUS definition to the Supreme Court’s decision in Sackett v. EPA. Today’s guidance is an important step toward refocusing the Clean Water Act to its original purpose. NCBA thanks EPA Administrator Zeldin for his work to finally close a decades long chapter of severe regulatory whiplash.”

NUPDATE!

CattleCon 2026 Heads to the Heart of Nashville. Annual Convention is “Where the Beef Industry Meets.” Downtown Nashville, Tenn., will host CattleCon 2026 on February 3-5, 2026. The largest cattle industry event of the year will be held in the heart of Music City, home of honky tonks, history, and hearty food. Thousands of cattlemen and women will gather to learn, conduct business, network and enjoy the sights, sounds, and flavors in the “songwriting capital of the world.”

“Nashville has always been a popular location for CattleCon, and we are excited to bring everyone downtown to be close to everything the city has to offer,” said Kristin Torres, executive director of meetings and events at the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association. “We are planning several special events, including an exclusive evening at the historic Ryman Auditorium.”

CattleCon 2026 will feature popular events such as Cattlemen’s College, CattleFax Outlook Session, D.C. Issues Update, Cattle Feeders Hall of Fame Banquet, Environmental Stewardship Regional Awards, and Beef Quality Assurance Awards, along with a few surprises to be announced.

The award winning NCBA Trade Show will include acres of displays as well as live cattle handling demonstrations, educational sessions, and entertainment. Trade show exhibitors will feature the latest advancements, from equipment and technology to pharmaceuticals and feed supplements, all conveniently located under one roof. Registration will open in August, and additional information will be available at convention.ncba.org.

CBA Welcomes Return of the July Cattle Report. NCBA recently thanked the U.S. Department of Agriculture National Agricultural Statistics Services’ (USDA-NASS) for reinstating the July Cattle Report and the County Estimates for Crops and Livestock. These reports were discontinued last year but have provided critical data to farmers and ranchers for years.

“The return of the July Cattle Report and County Estimates is a big win for cattle producers who utilize these reports to efficiently run their operations and make important marketing decisions. These reports are not costly to produce, and the amount they are used by the U.S. agriculture sector makes them extremely cost effective,” said NCBA Executive Director of Government Affairs Tanner Beymer. “NCBA thanks USDA-NASS for bringing back these vital reports and continuing to deliver timely, accurate, and useful statistics that bring transparency to livestock markets across the country.”

NCBA Outlines Trade Priorities in Ways and Means Hearing. Recently, NCBA member and chairman of the Texas Cattle Feeders Association (TCFA) Robby Kirkland, testified before the House Ways and Means Committee. In the hearing titled, American Trade Negotiation Priorities, Kirkland highlighted the benefits of past trade agreements for U.S. cattle producers and the need for greater access to foreign markets. This is also the time for the U.S. government to hold our trading partners accountable for unfair practices and non-equivalent food safety standards.

“U.S. cattle producers produce the highest quality beef in the world and benefit greatly from market based, science based, and rules based trade policies. Unfortunately, in recent years, our government stepped back from market access negotiations while our competitors negotiated robust trade agreements and gained a critical advantage in key markets where U.S. agricultural products face higher tariffs and a brick wall of non-tariff barriers,” said TCFA Chairman and Texas cattle producer Robby Kirkland. “It is long past time for the U.S. to re-engage in trade talks to secure preferential access with our allies like the United Kingdom and in key markets in Asia, Africa, Latin America, and the Middle East.”

The U.S. cattle and beef industry has greatly benefitted from robust trade agreements that leveled the playing field for U.S. farmers and ranchers and improved many rural economies across our country. However, not all trade partners have lived up to their commitments and must be held accountable.

“We must ensure that any country that is granted access to the U.S. does not put U.S. consumers or the U.S. cattle herd at risk. This is a major concern with Brazil, Paraguay, and other countries that have a history of Foot-and-Mouth Disease and highly questionable records on food safety and animal health. We need Congress and President Trump to hold these trade partners accountable and ensure the safety of American consumers and our cattle herd. At the same

NCBA News

NCBA News continued from the previous page

time, we need to begin enforcing our trade agreement with Australia, which was granted access to the U.S. market through our free trade agreement. For 20 years, Australia has exported nearly $29 billion of beef to the U.S. market, but we have been prohibited from selling $1 worth of U.S. beef in Australia. The 20 year delay in the approval of U.S. beef is completely unjustified because we are internationally recognized as having the highest food safety and animal health standards in the world. For years, we have been told by the Australian government that we are in the final stages of approval, yet we continue to see delays. U.S. cattle and beef do not pose a threat to Australian consumers and Australian livestock, and this is not how allies and trade partners should behave. All we are seeking is fair trade,” added Kirkland. The return of the July Cattle Report and County Estimates is a big win for cattle producers who utilize these reports to efficiently

run their operations and make important marketing decisions. These reports are not costly to produce, and the amount they are used by the U.S. agriculture sector makes them extremely cost effective,” said NCBA Executive Director of Government Affairs Tanner Beymer. “NCBA thanks USDA-NASS for bringing back these vital reports and continuing to deliver timely, accurate, and useful statistics that bring transparency to livestock markets across the country.”

About the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association. NCBA has represented America’s cattle producers since 1898, preserving the heritage and strength of the industry through education and public policy. As the largest association of cattle producers, NCBA works to create new markets and increase demand for beef. Efforts are made possible through membership contributions. To join, contact NCBA at 866-BEEF-USA or membership@beef.org.

NCBA’s 2025 Leadership Team

President, Buck Wehrbein

Buck Wehrbein grew up in eastern Nebraska on a farm raising cattle, hogs, and chickens. He has managed custom feedlots in Nebraska and Texas since 1984, and he began feeding his own cattle in 1980. Before returning to Nebraska, he worked outside Amarillo on a custom feedlot for many years.

Wehrbein has been active in the beef industry for decades, including serving as both chairman and treasurer for the Nebraska Beef Council. He served on the Beef Promotion Operating Committee and participated in the Young Cattlemen’s Conference in 1993.

Wehrbein and his wife, Sandy, have been married for more than 50 years, have three children (two living), seven grandchildren (six living), and ten great grandchildren (nine living).

President-Elect, Gene Copenhaver

Gene Copenhaver is a fifth generation cattleman with family roots dating back to the 1850s in Washington County, Virginia. He graduated from Virginia Tech with a degree in animal science. Copenhaver currently manages his family’s stocker operation in southwest Virginia with his son, Will. He spent nearly 40 years as an agriculture loan officer and served his clients, who were primarily cattle producers in five East Coast states.

Copenhaver served as NCBA Vice President, chair and vice chair of the Policy Division, chair and vice chair of NCBA’s Tax & Credit Committee, and chair and vice chair of NCBA’s International Trade Committee. He is a past president of the Virginia Cattlemen’s Association and past chairman of the Virginia Cattle Foundation. He and his family are longtime active members and supporters of the NCBA, the Virginia Cattlemen’s Association, Smyth-Washington Cattlemen’s Association, and the Virginia Cattlemen’s Foundation. He has been married to his wife Jodi for more than 35 years.

They have three grown children, Brad, Will, and Jaymee, and one granddaughter.

Vice President, Kim Brackett

Kim Brackett and her husband, Ira, operate Brackett Ranches Limited Partnership, a cow/calf and stocker operation based in southern Idaho on the Idaho/Nevada border. The ranch participates in third party verification programs to provide consumers with more information about how their food is raised.

Brackett has a long history of service in the cattle industry and chaired the 2020–2025 Beef Industry Long Range Plan Task Force, served as president of the Idaho Cattle Association, chair of the Cattlemen’s Beef Board, and chair of the Beef Quality Assurance Advisory Group. In 2018, Brackett was awarded an Eisenhower Fellowship, which provided her the opportunity to study abroad and research sustainability issues affecting the cattle industry.

With her proven leadership experience and passion for the industry, Brackett aims to never forget she is only a temporary steward of their family’s ranch. Her children are the sixth generation of her husband’s family to manage the ranch, and she hopes to pass on an economically and environmentally viable operation to them.

Policy Division Chair, Skye Krebs

Along with his family, Skye Krebs runs Krebs Sheep Company in Oregon, a diversified ranch raising both cattle and sheep. The Krebs family has ranched in eastern Oregon for more than 100 years, and Krebs hopes to pass the opportunity along to his son and grandsons.

Krebs is a long time leader in the beef and sheep industry and served as president of the Public Lands Council (PLC), the advocacy organization for western ranchers who hold federal grazing permits. Krebs also held other positions in PLC, including vice president, secretary, and trust protector chairman. He was previously president

of the Oregon Sheep Growers Association and led the North Gilliam County Rural Fire Protection District.

With more than 40 years of experience in reaching consensus and guiding progress in livestock organizations, Krebs has proven himself to be fair and focused on delivering outcomes that best benefit the industry. He describes himself as service oriented and committed to moving the industry forward.

Krebs and his wife, Penny, have two children, Sybil and Kip. Their son Kip, his wife Sarah, their two boys, and Sybil’s three sons are all actively involved in running the operation.

Policy Division Vice Chair, Kenny Rogers

Kenny Rogers runs the Wagon Wheel Ranch in Colorado, which was homesteaded in 1899. Rogers has previously served as president of the Colorado Cattlemen’s Association, the Colorado Livestock Association, and the Yuma County Cattlemen’s Association. He was also an advisory board member for the Colorado State University Veterinary Diagnostic Lab, a member of the livestock task force for the National Western Stock Show, president of the Yuma County Fair Board, and president of the Colorado Weed Management Association. Rogers currently serves on the board of directors for the Colorado Cattlemen’s Agricultural Land Trust, as a trustee for the National Western Stock Show, and as an elder for his church.

Rogers’ family has been in the cattle business for more than 70 years, and he is excited to join the leadership team to advocate for ranching families like his own.

Federation Division Chair, Nancy Jackson

Nancy Jackson, DVM, is a licensed veterinarian who owns and manages Southern Cross Farm in central Mississippi with her husband, Gary. A graduate of Mississippi State University, Jackson has been involved in the cattle industry for decades, owning her own large animal ambulatory practice, working as a field veterinarian for the Mississippi Board of Animal Health, and serving as a volunteer leader with 4-H, the Mississippi Cattlemen’s Association, the Mississippi Beef Council, and the Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation. Their cow/calf operation received the Environmental Stewardship Award for Region II in 2020.

Beginning on a beef operation in Florida, Jackson became interested at an early age in improving the industry. This passion turned into a nearly 30 year career as a private veterinarian, where she drew upon her education and life experience to help clients successfully improve their farming practices through genetic selection, parasite control, nutrition, reproduction, and disease management.

In her current role with the Mississippi Board of Animal Health, she works on animal disease traceability issues, the implementation of new technology for animal identification, and natural disaster response planning. Jackson enjoys advancing and safeguarding the cattle business operations in her home state against the threat of disease or disaster.

Federation Division Vice Chair, Travis Maddock

Travis Maddock, his wife Mistte, and their two children, James and Lauren, run a cow/calf and stocker operation in Benson County,

North Dakota. Maddock is also the co-owner of Maddock Ranch Supply, LLC, a retail livestock supply business, and co-owner of 6 In 1 Meats, LLC, a small harvest and processing facility that serves local beef cattle producers. Maddock has been a member of the North Dakota Stockmen’s Association for more than 20 years, has served six years on the board of directors of the North Dakota Beef Commission, three years on the executive committee of the Federation of State Beef Councils, and has been a member of the Beef Promotion and Operating Committee since 2022.

Treasurer, Brad Hastings

Brad Hastings grew up in Iowa and now resides in Amarillo, Texas. He is currently an advisor to and member of the board of directors of Cactus Feeders, Inc., which operates feedyards in the Texas panhandle, southwest Kansas, and Colorado. For more than 32 years, Hastings has held leadership roles within the agricultural industry, including CFO, CEO, and board member of companies that operate in the beef packing, cattle feeding, hog production, and pork packing sectors.

Hastings is in his third year as Treasurer for NCBA and, prior to this, he served as the vice chairman and chairman of NCBA’s Federation Division, served on the Beef Promotion Operating Committee (BPOC), as well as NCBA’s Tax & Credit and Finance & Audit Committees. He is active with the Texas Cattle Feeders Association and previously served as chairman of the Texas Beef Council.

Hastings graduated from Iowa State University with a degree in accounting. He has been married to his wife, Terri, for 36 years, and they have three grown children.

Immediate Past President, Mark Eisele

Mark Eisele lives in Cheyenne, Wyoming. He and his wife, Trudy, their son, and two daughters run Red and Black Angus cow/ calf pairs, retained yearlings that sell into branded programs, and a custom haying operation on the historic King Ranch.

The ranch runs cattle on both privately owned and public lands with state and federal grazing leases. The King Ranch was recognized in 2015 for the Leopold Conservation Award and Wyoming Stock Growers Environmental Stewardship Award.

Both Eisele’s parents came from ranching families, but he built most of their livestock business from scratch, starting with four cows as a young person with little capital. He had critical guidance and support from his state and national associations and fellow producers. This drove him during his time as NCBA president in 2024, as he opened opportunities for people who want to participate and succeed in this business.

Eisele served as the 51 st Wyoming Stock Growers Association president and has been heavily involved in the NCBA since 2009, when he sat on the Board of Directors before serving on the Animal Health and Wellbeing Committee. Since then, Eisele has been involved with the Nominating Committee, Public Lands Council (PLC), ESAP, and Political Action Committee.

Eisele and Trudy have been married for more than 40 years and have three adult children — Colton, Kendall, and Kaycee. Together, they work the family operation, enjoy outdoor recreation, hunting, and volunteering for organizations.

Accelerating Appalachia Farmer Funding Program

Applications are now open for Accelerating Appalachia’s farmer funding program. This initiative encourages farmers to adopt conservation practices through an $18 million Farmer Fund, which includes $12 million in cash and $6 million in training and marketing services. Accelerating Appalachia is seeking grazing and row crop producers who are ready to implement regenerative practices on their farms. Apply here at https://bit.ly/3w90Ses.

Three types of cash incentives are being offered to program participants:

Implementation Incentive - Helps with the cost of implementing a new practice. This fund will help cover or offset that cost. The amount available per acre depends on the practice(s) you implement. Early adopters can also benefit from this incentive. If you’ve already implemented one or more of our approved practices, you are eligible to apply for the program.

Participation Incentive - In order to measure long term soil health benefits, farmers/growers must sign up for the duration of the program incentives (3–5 years). Farmers must be able to show that they have control over the land tracts entered into the program, either as landowners or a 3–5 year lease. Growers must agree to take a yearly soil sample. The participation incentive will cover the cost of soil testing and reporting and other costs associated with program compliance.

Travel Incentive - Participants will receive reimbursements for travel, lodging, and food during attendance to farmer field days.

Networking Opportunities - Farmers enrolled in our farmer funding program access marketing assistance from industry experts and benefit from Accelerating Appalachia’s connections to buyers, processors, and distributors. We foster farmer inclusivity across local and regional markets to create more resilient, robust supply chains in food, fiber, and forest farming.

Additional Revenue - As you start to see measurable environmental benefits from implementing and continuing these practices, you’ll gain access to a growing network of lenders and investors. We’ve partnered with Carbon Harvest and Working Trees to help build on Accelerating Appalachia’s regional agriculture based investment network.

Approved NRCS Practices - These NRCS practices are applicable to the following commodities: beef, livestock, cotton, fruits, pork, row crops, specialty crops, and wool.

Although Accelerating Appalachia recognizes the important and impactful contribution that these commodities make to our economy and food system, our program agreement with the USDA does not allow us to incentivize rice, hemp, or crustacean production.

• 311: Alley Cropping – $1,000/acre

• 328: Conservation Crop Rotations – $75/acre

• 340: Cover Crops – $75/acre

• 345: Reduced Tillage – $75/acre

• 379: Forest Farming – $400/acre

• 381: Silvopasture – $1,000/acre

• 386: Field Borders – $400/acre

• 391: Riparian Buffers – $1,000/acre

• 422: Hedgerow Plantings – $400/acre

• 484: Mulching

• 528: Prescribed Grazing – $300/acre

Supplemental Practices - The practices listed below can be implemented to supplement the main incentivized practices above. These practices will not be listed on the application, but they can be utilized upon acceptance and enrollment in at least one of the primary practices.

• 382: Fence

• 384: Woody Residue Treatment

• 420: Wildlife Habitat Planting – $400/acre

• 441: Irrigation System, Micro-irrigation

• 490: Tree/Shrub Site Preparation

• 550: Range Planting

• 590: Nutrient Management

• 612: Tree & Shrub Establishment – $1,000/acre

• 645: Habitat Management – $1,000/acre

• 660: Tree/Shrub Pruning – $75/acre

• 666: Forest Stand Improvement – $1,000/acre

*Incentives range depending on practices adopted/implemented, with increased incentives for agroforestry due not only to the additional expense but the significant increase in drawdown and long term soil health benefits.

Required Acreage to Participate - Our funding primarily aims to sequester significant carbon over time and market the value of soil improvement practices. Therefore, projects should be a minimum of 10 acres.

For more information, visit https://acceleratingappalachia.org. About Accelerating Appalachia. Accelerating Appalachia was founded to help regional agriculture based businesses and small farms access resources and expand opportunities in the growing market for regional commodities. Small to medium scale businesses and farms often lack access to resources available to larger businesses. Accelerating Appalachia was created to close that gap.

Launched in 2013, Accelerating Appalachia’s ten week intensive business accelerator supports growth stage businesses and producers in food, textiles, and forest products. As part of the intensive, we introduce our entrepreneurs to mentors, investors, accounting, legal, customer experience, financial modeling, peer support, and more. In addition, entrepreneurs receive up to two years of mentorship.

Surprisingly, when we launched, we received over 100 applications from around the world, accepting 11 regional businesses into our inaugural session. Ten years in, accelerator graduates have collectively leveraged over $20.2 million in investments.

We continue this mission through our Farmer Fund by supporting farmers who produce the raw goods for our regional manufacturers. Our Farmer Fund provides $12 million in cash incentives and $6 million in training and marketing assistance.

Calving Considerations — Tips for Management and Early Calf Nutrition

By CECE BLYTHE, Alltech

Irecently sat down with Dr. Shelby Roberts, Alltech technical sales support, to take a closer look at calf gut health, the importance of nutrition during the first weeks of the calf’s life, and some other calving season considerations. Here are a few points to keep in mind before and during spring calving.

1. Management of your process and facilities is half the battle for a healthy calving season. Nutrition is a major player in the success of a calf’s life, but proper management of your herd is essential to the health of your cattle. Dr. Roberts shared some management tips to keep in mind as calving season progresses.

• Inspect your facilities before and throughout calving season. Ensuring that fences are mended and gates and latches are in working order can keep those sneaky calves from sliding through — thus avoiding that dreaded call from the neighbor that you have one out!

• Develop a vaccination schedule with your veterinarian. A solid vaccination schedule for the cow and, eventually, for the calves is an important step to a healthy herd.

• Manage your calving areas. They should be kept clean and dry. Also, avoid overcrowding. Overcrowding of pens can lead to lots of manure buildup, which increases the pathogen load within the pen. It can be easier said than done to keep things clean and dry when you’re calving in mud, snow, rain, and whatever else nature throws at you, but do your best. Putting out straw or moving cattle who are close to calving to a drier area (a calving barn, if available), will pay back in spades, giving those calves the best start possible.

• Avoid constant commingling of older and younger calves. Younger calves are more susceptible to scours than older calves. Try to keep your groups separate for as long as you can to ensure that those calves have had a chance to get adjusted, with their immune systems fully up and running.

• If facilities allow, manage first calf heifers separately. First calf heifers, in general, have lower-quality colostrum compared to older cows. This can leave calves susceptible to pathogens if managed in a larger group.

2. Keep the essentials on hand and easy to access. What constitutes “essential” will vary by operation. Think about your operation and consider what you need to have stocked for the season — especially if you don’t have easy access to the store in a pinch. A few things that are handy to keep near and on hand are:

• Ear tagger and ear tags (with numbers prewritten, if you can!)

• Portable scale and sling if taking birth weights

• Record book or record keeping app

• Iodine spray for the calf’s navel

• A sorting stick to keep mom at bay while you help her calf

• Bottles and tubes

• Colostrum powder, milk replacer, and electrolytes

• Pulling chains and any attachments

• Access to hot water

• A calf warmer, or a place to warm them up

• Clothes of varying weights and warmth for varying weather

• Caffeine — and maybe whiskey!

3. Colostrum is critical for the calf’s immune system. Colostrum is the mother’s first milk and the calf’s first source of immunity and nutrients. Antibodies from colostrum protect calves until their naive immune systems are fully functional. Calves are susceptible early on to a host of potential illnesses, so ensuring that they nurse and/ or are supplemented with colostrum in the first hours after birth is crucial to their lifelong success. That’s an important fact to consider, especially when many beef producers don’t have access to a calving barn — or an easy way to get to the calf — when the calf first hits the ground.

Once the calf nurses, not only is getting that colostrum in their system critical, but the quality of the colostrum can affect the success of the calf as well. For better colostrum quality, the rancher needs to look toward the dam. Cows start producing colostrum around five weeks before they give birth, so it is essential to consider the dam’s nutritional needs well before birth to enhance her colostrum quality and, subsequently, the health of her calf. Choosing from the Bio-Mos range of nutritional technologies is one great way to give your calves a strong start to a healthy life.

4. A balancing act is happening in the gut. Dr. Roberts and I took

time to talk about how the antibodies the calf consumes by way of colostrum affect its health and immunity. What it comes down to is a balancing act happening in the gut.

Good bacteria are constantly fighting to keep the pathogenic bacteria in check. Simultaneously, the animal’s immune system is fighting the pathogenic bacteria. The immune system and the good bacteria work together to keep the animal healthy and to suppress the pathogenic bacteria. When antibiotics are used, this clears out the pathogenic bacteria AND the good bacteria. When the gut recolonizes, the animal is at risk for pathogenic bacteria recolonizing at a quicker rate than the good bacteria, leaving the immune system as the last and only line of defense when antibiotics are removed.

The first couple weeks after birth can remain a period of elevated risk as the maternal antibodies disappear and the calf’s immunity is still maturing, as shown in the diagram. In fact, according to Dr. Roberts, “Mortality data shows that most calf death occurs within the first two weeks of life.”

5. There are so many options, but all nutrition products are not created equal. When producers are considering nutrition strategies, Dr. Roberts encourages them to think holistically about dam nutrition by considering the seasonal changes in the dam’s nutrition needs. Her needs — and the needs of the calf — will vary throughout the seasons.

Nutritional solutions like Bio-Mos are beneficial pre-calving and beyond. Since the 1980s, Alltech has been conducting studies on these technologies, and the calf research has shown the following results:

• Maintenance of gastrointestinal health

• Alteration of intestinal microbial populations

• Stimulation of immune activity

• Stimulation of the natural defenses of the animal

Bio-Mos has also been tested in different life stage changes — like transitional receiving diets. In a study conducted in a commercial feedlot in Southern Alberta, Canada, 902 mixed breed, newly weaned beef cattle were split into two groups, one fed a control and one supplemented with Bio-Mos. Cattle fed Bio-Mos showed improved average daily gain and maintained a healthy immune response.

Calving season is a critical time of year for producers, as healthy calves on the ground directly affect the success of the operation throughout the whole year. Consider utilizing these tips and tools to put your cattle in the best position for a successful start and a successful life. Best of luck, and happy calving!

You shouldn’t have to have a gun held to your head to take advantage of the expert A.I., superior genetics, the best in purebreds and outstanding farm supplies featured in the Classifieds in this issue!

UPDATE

NALF Announces the Hiring of Tatum Swink as the New Director of Activities. Unlike summertime vectors, you won’t hear the buzz of lice’s presence. However, you will see the impact they can have on your herd during wintertime.

The North American Limousin Foundation is excited to introduce its new Director of Activities, Tatum Swink, of Severance, Colorado! Tatum will lead the North American Junior Limousin Association and its ten member board that serves all junior members of the historic NALJA association into the future.

Tatum comes from a strong cattle background, growing up on a small ranch in Perkins, Okla., and showed cattle extensively throughout her youth and as a 4-H member. Tatum obtained her bachelor’s degree in communications and marketing from Oklahoma State University. While in college, she worked for a seedstock operation in Oklahoma and interned at various shows, including the Tulsa State Fair. Tatum has also attended and helped youth exhibit their cattle at various junior national and major national livestock shows around the country.

After graduation at OSU, Tatum moved to Colorado and took on the role of Marketing and Communications Manager for the Colorado Cattlemen’s Association for the last two years. Tatum produced magazines, weekly electronic news communications, along with social media output and ad design work. She worked directly with ranchers and commercial cattle producers in the state of Colorado at the CCA.

Tatum commented, “I’m excited to work with the junior board and youth membership at NALJA along with NALF members of the storied Limousin breed. I’m also eager to bring my passion and experience to an already outstanding program and help it progress and grow into the future! I look forward to meeting everyone and assisting members in any way possible!”

Mark Anderson, Executive Director at NALF, said, “We are extremely excited to have Tatum join the team and work with our junior membership who have gone on to successful careers paths or became breeders that still belong to the association today with successful Limousin cattle operations. She possesses a diverse and unique skill set with a strong cattle background, communication, and leadership skills that will benefit both NALF and NALJA members into the future.”

About the North American Limousin Foundation. The North American Limousin Foundation, headquartered in Englewood, Colo., provides programs and services, including the documentation of more than 25,000 head of cattle annually, for approximately 4,000 members and their commercial customers. The Limousin breed and Lim-Flex hybrid offer industry leading growth and efficiency while being an ideal complement to British breeds. For more information about NALF, please visit www.nalf.org.

AGuide to Mastitis in Cattle. There are always challenges that accompany the calving season — dystocia, weak calves, and winter storms. Wouldn’t it be nice if you could calve for one year with no stress and worries about the newborn calf or its mama?

One challenge producers don’t often think about is mastitis in cattle. Mastitis is an inflammatory condition of the mammary gland that affects cattle, causing economic losses and health concerns in the herd. While mastitis is more commonly associated with dairy cattle, mastitis in beef cattle can also be a significant issue. It results in decreased milk production, poor calf growth, and increased culling rates.

At BioZyme, makers of VitaFerm cattle vitamin and mineral supplements, we want to ensure your herd stays healthy, and that includes reducing incidences of mastitis in cattle. Herd health starts with good nutrition and management practices. However, before you can keep your herd healthy, you must know what to protect against.

Let’s explore mastitis in cattle from the signs, prevention, and treatment protocols.

Signs of Mastitis in Cattle - Mastitis typically presents visible symptoms that make it easy to diagnose. It is most prevalent in cows that have just calved and are in early lactation; however, it can appear at any time. Some visible signs of mastitis in cattle include:

• Swelling, redness, and heat in the affected udder quarter

• Hardness or abnormal firmness of the udder

• Pain upon palpation, leading to discomfort in the cow

• Discolored, bloody, or foul smelling milk

• Presence of clots or flakes in the milk

• Decreased milk production

• Systemic signs such as fever, lethargy, and reduced appetite in severe cases

The cow might kick at the udder since it causes her pain, OR she might kick at the calf since nursing causes more pain.

Causes of Mastitis in Cattle - Mastitis can result from several infectious or environmental factors. It is imperative to keep your herd healthy and calving area as clean as possible to keep mastitis at bay. The most common causes of mastitis in cattle include:

Bacteria are the primary cause of mastitis. The most common bacterial pathogens include:

• Staphylococcus aureus – A major cause of chronic mastitis, leading to abscess formation and fibrosis. It is highly contagious and can be passed from cow to cow if you are treating one animal and move to another without properly washing or disinfecting your hands.

• Escherichia coli – Often associated with environmental mastitis, leading to severe inflammation and systemic illness. Commonly referred to as E. coli, this is one of the common bacteria found in the calving area.

• Streptococcus uberis and Streptococcus agalactiae – Common in unhygienic conditions and capable of spreading between animals.

• Mycoplasma – Can cause severe, contagious mastitis.

Environmental conditions play a substantial role in mastitis development. Contributing factors include:

• Dirty bedding and contaminated water sources

• Poorly maintained calving areas with excessive mud and manure

• Exposure to wet and cold conditions, increasing stress on cattle

• Overcrowding, which leads to the spread of pathogens

• Physical damage to the udder can cause unwanted infection to

the cows. Common causes of udder and teat injury include:

• Trauma from suckling calves with unusually sharp teeth

• Scratches and abrasions from rough terrain or sharp objects

• Biting or aggressive behavior from other cows in the group

A cow’s overall health and immunity influence vulnerability to mastitis. Leading factors include:

• Deficiencies in vitamins A, D, and E, as well as selenium and zinc

• Poor body condition score - cattle with low BCS are more likely to have weakened immune defenses

• Stressors such as extreme weather, transport, or calving difficulties Prevention of Mastitis in Cattle - Preventing mastitis involves a combination of management, hygiene, and herd health protocols. We always encourage prevention whenever feasible, as it is typically less expensive than treatment and keeps your herd overall healthier. Here are five best practices to prevent mastitis in cattle.

1. Proper Udder Hygiene

• Ensure cows have access to clean, dry bedding to minimize bacterial exposure.

• Maintain calving areas in sanitary conditions.

• Disinfect teats when handling cows, especially when assisting nursing.

2. Effective Calf Management

• Ensure calves receive sufficient colostrum within the first few hours after birth to strengthen immunity.

• Manage cross suckling behavior, as aggressive nursing can cause udder injuries.

3. Nutrition and Immune Support

• Provide a balanced diet with adequate vitamins and minerals to your herd. Remember that protein for cattle is an important part of their lactation diet. This is where our nutritional program can help. VitaFerm maximizes energy and forage utilization for successful production.

• Ensure cows maintain a proper body condition score (BCS) to support immune function.

• Minimize stress by providing shelter, shade, and protection from extreme weather.

4. Make Culling Decisions

• Identify and cull cows with recurring mastitis infections to prevent herd wide transmission. Remember that most bacterial infections are highly contagious, and it is not worth keeping a cow that will spread those infections within the herd.

Evaluating udders on cows that you might ultimately keep replacement daughters out of is also a good practice. If you have a cow family that always makes a low hanging, saggy udder, it might not be

the best decision to continue keeping females in that family. Weigh the benefits against the disadvantages. If those cows wean off exceptional, high growth calves that generate revenue without mastitis issues, it is probably feasible to have a few ugly udders in the herd.

5. Vaccination Programs

• Some vaccines are available to reduce the severity of mastitis caused by specific pathogens, such as E. coli and Staphylococcus aureus

• Work with a veterinarian to develop an appropriate vaccination plan.

Treatment of Mastitis in Cattle - Timely and appropriate treatment is essential to reduce the impact of mastitis. Treatment strategies depend on the severity and cause of the infection. First and foremost, always consult your veterinarian before implementing a treatment plan. Your veterinarian will be most knowledgeable about your herd and the local climate and be able to coordinate the best treatment plan with you.

1. Intramammary Antibiotics

• Antibiotic therapy is the primary treatment for bacterial mastitis.

• Use intramammary infusions for localized infections, ensuring compliance with withdrawal periods for meat safety, which would only be an issue if sending the cow to harvest.

• Commonly used antibiotics include penicillin, cephalosporins, and macrolides.

2. Systemic Antibiotics and Anti-Inflammatories

• Severe cases may require systemic antibiotic injections.

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as flunixin meglumine, commonly known as Banamine, can help reduce pain and inflammation.

3. Supportive Therapy

• Provide fluids and electrolytes for dehydrated cows.

• In cases of severe systemic illness, veterinary intervention may include intravenous therapy.

How Can VitaFerm Help? Remember, we mentioned that we offer a nutritional supplement for cattle? Well, it seems like a long shot that a vitamin and mineral supplement could help prevent mastitis in cows. However, by boosting their natural immunity and keeping them in a good body condition score, you are increasing their overall well being.

VitaFerm offers a supplement ideal for your cows, no matter what size or shape their udder is in. AO-Biotics Amaferm is the key additive in all VitaFerm products. It has nearly 200 published and/ or presented research studies proving its increase in digestibility and, ultimately, its impact on the animal. Not only will you be supplementing your cows’ vitamin and mineral needs, but you will be providing them with Amaferm.

BioZyme News continued on the next page

BioZyme News continued from the previous page

The key point of Amaferm is using it as a tool to get more energy metabolized by the cow. More forage digestibility leads to less physical fill, so she can eat more. More VFA production provides the extra energy needed for thermoregulation, which will also help keep her warm in the cold winter months.

“Amaferm can help unlock the nutritional value of all types of forages. Amaferm goes beyond stimulating the growth of beneficial rumen bacteria and can also promote rumen fungal growth and enzymatic activity. This increases fiber digestibility and volatile fatty acid (VFA) production by 17 and 16 percent, respectively. As such, more energy becomes available to your cows, leading to more performance,” Cassady said.

“Research proves that cattle fed Amaferm synthesize 143 more grams of microbial protein each day. That’s enough protein equivalent to a pound of supplemented soybean meal available for the cow or heifer,” Cassady said. “Additional protein from Amaferm in a year round supplemental program helps producers reduce the need for additional protein up to 40 percent annually, a huge continuous savings on feed costs.”

VitaFerm Provides Options - The VitaFerm brand offers various product lines for your cow herd’s reproductive success and overall health. A healthy cow has a good immune system, and good immunity helps keep infections at bay.

• VitaFerm ONE - VitaFerm ONE provides one solution to conveniently and consistently promote cattle performance in all seasons. All VitaFerm ONE products contain Amaferm to enhance digestibility. They meet or exceed nutrient requirements throughout the production cycle and are formulated with research proven organic copper and zinc for enhanced bioavailability.

Several other formulas exist besides the original ONE formula, which offers one solution for all seasons. ONE comes in both loose mineral form and a 35 pound block.

• VitaFerm Concept•Aid - Concept•Aid products promote effective, easy breeding when fed 60 days pre-calving through 60 days post breeding. All Concept•Aid products include Amaferm and organic copper, iodine, and zinc for maximum bioavailability, innate immunity, and hoof health. They also contain high levels of vitamin E to support reproductive tract repair and milk quality.

Concept•Aid products come in numerous loose minerals and two tub formulas. Some formulas help control anaplasmosis, grass tetany, and flies. Other formulas contain MOS (mannan oligosaccharides) or our HEAT technology. Some contain a combination of the above.

To discover the Concept•Aid formula best for your management scenario, use our Concept•Aid Navigator.

• VitaFerm ReproMaxx - VitaFerm ReproMaxx is a premium free choice vitamin and mineral supplement for beef cattle designed to maximize reproductive success with research proven levels of Zinpro organic trace minerals.

ReproMaxx, launched in the summer of 2024, provides producers with another level to maximize their reproductive success with verified, research proven levels of Zinpro organic zinc, copper, and manganese. Still with Amaferm, ReproMaxx also supports colostrum quality and bull soundness and fertility.

Is All Calf Gel Created Equally. Cow/calf producers want the best start for their newborn calves. That’s why BioZyme recently introduced VitaFerm Sure Start Gel, specifically formulated for calves to support immune function and overall health during the critical post birth period. Yes, there are other calf gels on the market. But, as leaders in animal health and nutrition, our goal is to provide animals with an undeniable impact from birth forward.

VitaFerm has foundationally produced nutrition for beef cattle that maximizes energy and forage utilization for successful production. However, successful production doesn’t happen if your calf doesn’t get started on the right foot. Yes, we know producers feed VitaFerm mineral to their cows in late gestation and early lactation to give their calves pass through immunity and nutrients. However, VitaFerm Sure Start Gel is another resource to ensure that calves receive the best nutrients possible, as early as possible.

“Getting calves off to the best start possible is paramount for their long term health and, ultimately, your profitability. While a year round VitaFerm program can improve colostrum quality, Sure Start Gel uses our new Broad Shield technology to give an additional boost to immunity,” said Chris Cassady.

Benefits of VitaFerm Sure Start Gel - The new VitaFerm Sure Start Gel offers several benefits to give newborns a sure start. Like all

VitaFerm products, it contains AO-Biotics Amaferm. Furthermore, this innovative gel:

• Delivers IgY antibodies derived from Salmonella, E. coli, bovine rotavirus, bovine coronavirus, Cryptosporidium, Clostridium, and MOS for broad support of the immune system.

• Provides nutritional support to maximize calf vigor.

“VitaFerm Sure Start Gel is research proven to enhance the efficacy of the antibodies the cow naturally passes to her calf, giving your calves every chance to develop their immune system and capitalize on healthy, efficient performance,” Cassady said.

This single dose product comes in a 30 mL tube, and you should administer it after the calf has had colostrum. For best results, we recommend giving it within the first 24 hours of birth. Repeat daily as needed. The bright orange color allows for a distinct recognition of administration.

What Differentiates Sure Start Calf Gel? If you are a producer and Google search “calf gel,” endless options present themselves. However, not all calf gel is created the same. Many recommend use immediately after the calf is born. At BioZyme, our scientists know the importance of colostrum. That is why we have suggested using the Sure Start Gel after that calf gets its mother’s first milk.

Furthermore, all BioZyme products are research proven, meaning we have trialed them and know they do what we say they do. BioZyme has more than 150 research papers and presentations across all products for all species. We want our dealers and our customers to know that we have all animals’ best interests at heart. That’s why research has been at our company’s foundation for more than 60 years.

Another way that the VitaFerm Sure Start Gel distinguishes itself from the competition is its value. Yes, one tube is one dose, which makes it easy to administer — no guessing if you over or under applied. Calves are getting some of the best technology on the market, all for under $13 a dose, at the suggested retail price. Some other calf gels are priced at $18 or more per dose, and they do not contain Amaferm or the complete suite of antibodies that Sure Start Gel does.

Finally, our team is not just scientists in white lab coats making products for producers and animal lovers. The BioZyme team is comprised of producers — cattle producers — just like our customers. They know the value of calf gel that contains Amaferm and other key antibodies to protect the immune system.

AGuide to Fly Control for Cattle. Warm weather and sunshine are welcome signs of spring after a cold, dreary winter. The one thing everyone can agree that isn’t welcome — flies. Whether you are involved in production agriculture or not, flies are a nuisance nobody wants around. However, when you are in the cattle business, flies cost the industry billions of dollars annually.

Fly control for cattle is an investment in your herd. Horn flies cost beef producers more than $1 billion annually, and face flies can contribute up to $150 million in yearly losses. Houseflies are responsible for the transmission of BVD and scours, and they influence BRD. Meanwhile, stable flies are a huge bite hindrance to feedlot cattle, costing gain and overall performance. So, would you rather control just one of these flies or all of them? We decided to try to control all four with our solution.

At BioZyme, we want to ensure your herd stays healthy, including controlling flies. Herd health starts with good nutrition and management practices. However, before you can keep your herd

healthy, you must know what to protect against.

Let’s explore fly control for cattle from various management protocols, including a nutritional supplement, and the impacts flies have if not controlled.

Effective Fly Control for Cattle - Effective fly control for cattle requires an integrated pest management (IPM) approach combining chemical, biological, and environmental strategies. Let’s take a closer look at each of these strategies to determine how to best combine them into an effective IPM approach.

• Chemical Control - Chemical fly control methods include insecticides, pour-ons, sprays, and feed additives.

• Pour-on Insecticides - Applied directly to cattle, these products provide residual control of horn flies and lice. Active ingredients include pyrethroids, organophosphates, and insect growth regulators (IGRs). It is best to apply these biannually — once in the spring and again in the fall — for various species. Application is most effective during the cooler parts of the day. As with any insecticide or product, always read and follow label directions.

• Backrubbers and Dust Bags - These self application tools allow cattle to apply insecticides when rubbing against them. They work well in high traffic areas such as water troughs or mineral feeders. Backrubbers and dust bags are effective resources in the summer

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when cattle are forced to use them. For example, they are most effective if hung at the sole entrance to a water source — that way cattle must pass under them for fly control.

• Ear Tags - Insecticide impregnated ear tags provide fly control for cattle by releasing active ingredients over time. The fly control in the tags lasts approximately 12–15 weeks, depending on the amount of pressure flies put on your herd. To prevent resistance, make sure to rotate tags between chemical classes each season.

• Feed Through Insecticides (IGRs) - IGRs, such as methoprene and diflubenzuron, prevent fly larvae from developing in manure. These products work best in continuous feeding programs.

We believe in finding solutions for every producer’s challenge. That’s why we have incorporated the feed through solution ClariFly

Larvicide into our VitaFerm and Sure Champ supplements. ClariFly is a four fly larvicide that prevents houseflies, stable flies, face flies, and horn flies from developing in and emerging from the manure of treated livestock. ClariFly interrupts the fly’s lifecycle through the active ingredient diflubenzuron, which inhibits chitin synthesis.

Chitin is a major component of the exoskeleton of an insect, and as an insect grows and will molt, it will have to reform its exoskeleton. One component is that they deposit chitin to be able to form that exoskeleton. Since the active ingredient in ClariFly inhibits chitin from properly forming into an exoskeleton, that insect — immature or fully mature — will die.

• Foggers and Sprays - Used for short term knockdown of adult flies, foggers and sprays provide immediate relief but require frequent reapplication. They require more labor and are more cost prohibitive than other fly control methods. As always, read and follow label directions with using sprays.

While chemical control is effective, overreliance on insecticides can lead to resistance. Rotating active ingredients and integrating other control methods is recommended.

• Biological ControlBiological fly control involves using natural predators, parasites, or competitors to reduce fly populations. Predators like beetles and birds also contribute to fly reduction. Biological control is most effective when combined with good manure management and minimal insecticide use to avoid harming beneficial organisms.

• Parasitic Wasps - These tiny wasps lay eggs inside fly pupae, preventing adult fly emergence. Regular releases can significantly suppress stable and housefly populations.

• Dung Beetles - By breaking down manure, dung beetles eliminate fly breeding grounds. Their presence improves pasture hygiene and reduces fly numbers.

• Birds - Some birds, like chickens, will eat flies and other parasites. However, they are

typically only effective near the buildings where they live and roost.

• Environmental and Management Practices - Sanitation and pasture management are critical in fly control for cattle. A well maintained environment is one of the most sustainable methods of fly control, reducing reliance on chemicals and promoting herd health.

• Manure Management - Regularly removing manure from barns, pens, and feeding areas prevents fly breeding. Composting manure at high temperatures kills larvae. Manure removal, especially in confinement and around buildings, is especially important for controlling stable flies and houseflies.

• Drainage Improvement - Eliminating standing water reduces breeding grounds for stable flies and other insects. Many pests, including mosquitoes, breed in standing water, so ensure that your drains work properly.

• Rotational Grazing - Rotational grazing offers a great alternative to fly control for cattle. Moving cattle between pastures disrupts fly life cycles and reduces larval development. Fresh manure piles, where flies breed, dry up, and fresh flies can’t impact the herd if they do hatch and cattle are not in that pasture.

• Confined Fly Control - Sticky traps, UV light traps, and bait stations help reduce fly populations in confined areas. Increasing airflow in barns and shelters discourages fly activity, as flies prefer still, humid conditions.

Develop an Integrated Fly Control Plan - Now that you know the various fly control methods, it is time to develop a fly control plan for your cow/calf enterprise. A successful fly control program combines multiple strategies tailored to the specific needs of a cattle operation. Follow these five steps to develop your fly control plan:

1. Identify Problem Areas - Conduct regular monitoring to determine fly species and population levels. Know the time and lifecycle of each species of fly that lives and thrives in your area and where on the animal and when they are likely to feed.

2. Choose Appropriate Control Methods - Select a combination of chemical, biological, and management techniques based on fly species and environmental conditions. For example, a method that eradicates only house or stable flies is not practical if you have a horn fly challenge.

3 Rotate Insecticides - Prevent resistance by alternating insecticide classes each season. This is especially true for anything that goes directly on the cattle, like an ear tag or pour-on.

4. Implement Sanitation Measures - Keep pens, pastures, and feed areas clean to reduce fly breeding sites.

5. Evaluate Effectiveness - Continuously assess control measures and adjust strategies as needed. It’s never too late to add a feed through IGR mineral, even if you have tried other methods and still see flies on your cattle.

Impact of Flies on Cattle Health and Production - We previously mentioned that flies cost the beef cattle industry billions yearly. Fly infestations significantly impact cattle health and economic returns. Some key influences include:

• Reduced Weight Gain - Constant fly irritation leads to decreased grazing and energy diversion from growth. If cattle are constantly battling flies, then they aren’t grazing. And if they aren’t grazing, they aren’t gaining.

• Lower Milk Production - Lactating cows experiencing high fly loads produce less milk due to stress and discomfort.

• Disease Transmission - Flies spread pinkeye, mastitis, and bovine leukosis virus.

• Decreased Reproductive Efficiency - Fly induced stress can disrupt estrus cycles and reduce conception rates. Keeping breeding intervals tight is vital to your herd’s reproductive success.

• Damage to Hides and Meat Quality - Some fly larvae burrow under the skin, affecting leather quality and meat yield.

Defining the Fly Nuisances - Several species of flies cause problems in cattle operations. Each species has a different life cycle and feeding habit, requiring targeted control measures. Since VitaFerm makes a mineral with ClariFly, targeted at four fly species, let’s examine the four most common flies.

• Horn Flies

- Smaller, gray, biting flies

- Live on the backs and sides of cattle

- Take blood meals multiple times a day

- Cause irritation, reduced grazing/eating time, and lower weight gains

- Severe infestation can lead to a loss of up to 50 pounds per animal during a grazing season

• Face Flies

- Appear similar to a housefly

- Feed on secretions around the eyes and nose of cattle

- Known transmitters for bacterium responsible for pinkeye and other eye diseases

- Only lays eggs in fresh, undisturbed cattle manure

• Stable Flies

- Smaller fly with a distinct checkerboard pattern on the abdomen

- Has a painful bite and doesn’t matter if its next blood meal comes from an animal or human

- Primarily attacks the legs and lower body, causing stress, reduced feeding, and production losses

- Breeds in manure, decaying matter, and wet bedding, so cleanliness is important to control

• Houseflies

- Displays four stripes on the thorax

- Lives and eats on human food, animal waste, and garbage

- Does not bite cattle, but serves as a carrier of various pathogens, contaminating feed and water.

- Thrive in manure, spilled feed, and organic waste

- Females breed quickly and efficiently, depositing up to 150 eggs at a time

Let VitaFerm Help with Fly Control for Cattle - VitaFerm offers 7 formulas of its vitamin and mineral supplements with ClariFly to help stop horn, face, stable, and houseflies in their larval stage. VitaFerm can maximize energy and forage utilization for successful production in beef cattle. Additionally, the HEAT technology in some VitaFerm products also contains a combination of essential oils and garlic to support animals when heat and insects are a challenge.

In addition to the fly control, AO-Biotics Amaferm will improve your herd’s volatile fatty acid (VFA) production in the rumen by 16 percent, getting more nutrients out of their forage, they will increase

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their overall health.

Here’s a quick overview of our VitaFerm formulas with ClariFly:

• VitaFerm ONE HEAT with ClariFly - VitaFerm ONE HEAT with ClariFly is a free choice vitamin and mineral supplement for beef cattle that meets or exceeds nutrient requirements throughout the production cycle. Both ClariFly and HEAT technology promote cattle performance when temperatures are above 70ºF or when cattle are grazing fescue.

• VitaFerm ONE HEAT CTC 3G with ClariFly - VitaFerm ONE HEAT CTC 3G with ClariFly is a free choice vitamin and mineral supplement that meets or exceeds nutrient requirements throughout the production cycle. It contains ClariFly, CTC, and HEAT technology to promote beef cattle performance when temperatures are above 70ºF or when cattle are grazing fescue.

• VitaFerm Concept•Aid Protein Tub with ClariFly - This new product, VitaFerm Concept•Aid Protein Tub with ClariFly, is a premium protein tub with vitamins, minerals, and ClariFly or beef cattle on grass pasture designed to support reproductive success on

Virginia Herd Health Management Services, PC

In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) & Embryo Transfer (ET)

* On-farm aspiration of oocytes via Ultrasound Guided Ovum Pick-Up (OPU).

* Embyos come back in 8 days for placement or direct thaw freezing on-farm.

* Can do on donors aged 8 months and older, up to 120-150 days pregnant Doesn’t interfere with pregnancy.

* Pregnant cows work really well, so the cow doesn’t get out of her production group.

* Can do a donor every 2 weeks.

* NOW AVAILABLE * Small Ruminant Laparoscopic Artificial Insemination (AI) & Embryo Transfer (ET)

Oocytes fertilized at BoviteqUSA in Madison, Wisconsin. www.boviteq.com

For more information, contact: PAT COMYN, DVM

P.O. Box 555 Madison, Va. 22727

540-829-3625 (cell) • 540-948-5238 (office/fax) pcomyn@verizon.net

Visit us online at www.vhhms.com.

low protein forage. The first-and-only VitaFerm tub with ClariFly includes 20 percent natural protein along with organic copper, iodine, and zinc for maximum bioavailability, innate immunity, and hoof health. High levels of vitamin E support reproductive tract repair and milk quality.

• VitaFerm Concept•Aid 5/S with ClariFly - Three VitaFerm Concept•Aid 5/S formulas exist with ClariFly, providing producers the options they need for their management scenarios. All are premium free choice 5 percent phosphorus vitamin and mineral supplements with ClariFly for beef cattle designed to support reproductive success. They all include Amaferm and organic copper, iodine, and zinc for maximum bioavailability, innate immunity and hoof health. High levels of vitamin E support reproductive tract repair and milk quality.

In addition to VitaFerm Concept•Aid 5/S with ClariFly, look for these two other formulas:

- VitaFerm Concept•Aid 5/S HEAT with ClariFly, which contains the HEAT technology, a combination of essential oils and garlic for when heat and insects are challenges

- VitaFerm Concept•Aid 5/S CTC 3G with ClariFly, which also contains CTC for control of anaplasmosis

• VitaFerm Conserve CTC 3G with ClariFly - Finally, for those producers looking to control costs, we offer VitaFerm Conserve CTC 3G with ClariFly. This supplement for beef cattle supports herd health and performance with a complete but economical vitamin and mineral package. It includes CTC to control anaplasmosis and ClariFly to stop horn, face, stable, and houseflies in their larval stage.

The Final Word - Fly control for cattle is essential for maintaining herd health, improving productivity, and preventing economic losses. Effective management involves identifying fly species, using a combination of chemical and biological control methods, and maintaining a clean environment. By implementing an integrated fly control program, producers can safeguard their herds against fly related stress, diseases, and production declines.

Remember, no matter what method or product you use, we cannot emphasize enough the importance of reading and following the label directions.

About BioZyme Inc. With a continued commitment to excellence, the BioZyme Stockyards location earned the American Feed Industry Association (AFIA) and Feedstuffs 2024 Feed Facility of the Year honor. BioZyme Inc., founded in 1951, develops and manufactures natural, proprietary products focused on animal nutrition, health, and microbiology. With a continued commitment to research, BioZyme offers a complete line of feed additives and high density, highly available vitamin, mineral, trace mineral, and protein supplements for a variety of animals, including cattle, pigs, poultry, sheep, goats, horses, and dogs. BioZyme brands include AO-Biotics, VitaFerm, Gain Smart, Sure Champ, Vitalize, DuraFerm, and Backyard Boost. With headquarters in St. Joseph, Mo., the company reaches a global market of customers that stretches into countries across five continents. For more information about BioZyme, visit www.biozymeinc.com.

The CEO’s Corner

Dairy’s Future Depends on Trade, and the U.S. Can Deliver

By GREGG DOUD, National Milk Producers Federation

“A billion pounds of cheese can’t be wrong — exports point to a bright future for U.S. dairy.”

The statement is true, it’s simple, and it can be easy to get lost in the back-and-forth of trade disputes among the United States and its partners. Those headlines will remain with us as trade policy inevitably becomes a part of discussions over national security and economic competition. What remains is the undeniably real growth of U.S. dairy exports and their critical importance toward building a better future for our industry.

Back to that billion pounds. 2024 was a record for U.S. cheese shipments, by far. U.S. cheese exports rose 17 percent to 508,808 metric tons, topping 2022’s previous record by more than 75,000 metric tons. Cheese exports have never topped 500,000 metric tons, which translates to more than 1 billion pounds.

Butterfat volumes improved, as have dry whey, casein, and fluid milk. And while challenges with China and its soft economy kept last year from topping 2022’s overall record, sales still rose to their second highest ever.

Trade agreements that the U.S. has negotiated over the past couple decades have played a major role in helping lay the groundwork for that growth and last year’s milestone cheese export record.

With more U.S. processing capacity online, our cheese exports

are poised for even more global growth. We’re developing and expanding promising markets such as Indonesia while maintaining dominance in our backyard, even as competitors like New Zealand try to elbow their way in to offset China’s weak growth. Across dairy, these positive developments will continue to grow. From 5.2 percent of U.S. milk production in 2000 to 16.4 percent today, trade has become an increasingly important outlet for farmers’ milk. It creates a promising future — and at the same time, it means the future depends on it.

At the National Milk Producers Federation, working in partnership with the U.S. Dairy Export Council, our efforts to unlock new markets and create a positive policy environment are persistent.

In key foreign markets, U.S. dairy exporters are at a distinct disadvantage because of tariff cuts that the European Union or New Zealand have negotiated in their own trade agreements with those countries. We’re finally now able to take advantage of lower tariffs in many countries, including the 0 percent tariffs phased in under the Dominican Republic-Central America Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA-DR), signed back in 2004. But that only underscores how much work hasn’t been done and remains left to do.

Because the United States hasn’t kept pace on the trade agreements front, NMPF and USDEC have been pursuing unilateral tariff cuts with targeted trading partners. We’ve already seen successes with China on cheese, from Vietnam on various dairy products, and just last year from the United Kingdom on certain milk powder sales; we’re now actively working to chip tariffs down further with the United Kingdom, China, and Taiwan. Two of my staff will head to Taiwan next month to advance that goal.

We’re also pushing against trade barriers that are arising as countries invent new policies that threaten to disrupt our dairy sales. We’ve devoted extensive efforts to beating back a politically motivated countervailing duty case in Colombia. And we’re focused on ensuring that currently open markets stay that way and pursuing ways to streamline and expand trade with partners such as Indonesia, Costa Rica, and Canada. Our efforts are positioning us well to make headway with the new administration.

To advance beyond past trade agreements, we are always looking for opportunities to forge new deals that help exporters compete in targeted ways, much like how the U.S.-Japan agreement negotiated under the first Trump Administration boosted our cheese and whey exports. We’re also pushing for strong protections for our cheese exports using common names like “parmesan” and addressing the $2.7B dairy trade deficit we have with the European Union.

We’re laying out all of these goals, and more, to the new administration to position them as key deliverables as USTR prepares to meet the White House’s April 1 deadline for submitting major trade plans.

These efforts will continue to build on the momentum we’ve created through decades of patient work, from USDEC’s on-theground efforts to our unparalleled global market intelligence to collaborative efforts such as the Cooperatives Working Together program, which is currently in the midst of a reinvention.

And one more thing about that billion pounds of cheese. There are more than eight billion people on this planet. We’ve only just begun.

NMPF Board Member Advocates for H5N1 Vaccine, Dairy Priorities at Senate Hearing. Vermont dairy farmer Harold Howrigan, a member of the NMPF Board of Directors, urged the Senate Agriculture Committee to swiftly advance a five year farm bill that renews the Dairy Margin Coverage program. He also addressed other major dairy issues, including the need for effective H5N1 vaccines for dairy cattle.

Howrigan, a sixth generation farmer who also serves on the board of NMPF member cooperative Dairy Farmers of America, testified on NMPF’s behalf at a hearing held recently.

In his testimony, Howrigan focused on the dairy industry’s ongoing work with USDA and the Food and Drug Administration to safeguard dairy herds and farm employees from Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza A H5N1, a.k.a bird flu. NMPF is pressing for swift advancement of effective H5N1 vaccines for dairy cattle as part of a risk based vaccine deployment strategy that mitigates trading partner concerns.

“We appreciate USDA’s work to accelerate vaccine development and urge that a vaccine be made available as soon as possible,” Howrigan said.

Howrigan also touted the revamped dairy safety net authorized in the 2018 Farm Bill and strengthened by subsequent legislative and administrative actions. “The Dairy Margin Coverage program has served farmers well during difficult times. Since it was implemented six years ago, my farm has consistently purchased the maximum $9.50 coverage,” he said.

Howrigan also emphasized how important labor and trade issues are to dairy farmers and the cooperatives they own. He urged Congress to pass long overdue immigration legislation that meets dairy’s unique labor needs and to work with the administration to seek new market access worldwide. “Failing to act risks damaging the vitality of our entire sector,” Howrigan said.

Finally, Howrigan urged the committee to pass the bipartisan Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act, spearheaded by Senators Roger Marshall, R-Kansas, and Peter Welch, D-Vermont. “Dairy is a nutrition powerhouse but continues to be under consumed by most Americans,” he said.

NMPF’s Statement on Jamieson Greer’s Confirmation as U.S. Trade Representative. Gregg Doud recently stated, “On behalf of the U.S. dairy industry, congratulations to Jamieson Greer on his confirmation as U.S. Trade Representative.

Exports play an indispensable role in supporting America’s dairy farmers and workers across the country. As I know first hand from my prior work with him at USTR, Ambassador Greer will be a strong advocate for American farmers and American made products. His

talents as a trade lawyer are exceptional. We are eager to work with him and his team to secure opportunities for U.S. dairy producers to compete on a level global playing field and grow export markets.”

NMPF Pushes for Vaccine as USDA Unveils Bird Flu Plan. USDA’s recent announcement of an additional billion dollars to combat H5N1 bird flu was welcomed in the dairy and poultry communities, as NMPF and its counterparts at the International Dairy Foods Association commended USDA support for vaccines as part of its strategy to eradicate the virus.

“Dairy farmers and cooperatives appreciate USDA’s leadership in supporting American agriculture and safeguarding animal health as it deals with what soon will be a second year of H5N1 bird flu disruptions in dairy cattle. Dairy farmers and all of agriculture take biosecurity seriously, and we thank USDA and the Trump Administration for actions that will further those efforts,” Gregg Doud said in a statement released jointly with IDFA shortly after USDA’s announcement.

“We support the department’s initiatives to advance vaccine development and deployment that will help control, and ultimately eliminate, the virus in dairy cattle,” he continued. “We also want to remind consumers that, even as dairy farmers are working with veterinarians and officials at all levels of government to eliminate this animal health threat, milk for consumers remains safe to drink because of the effectiveness of pasteurization.”

Groups representing wide swaths of American agriculture have been collaborating as avian influenza continues to destroy poultry flocks and infect and evolve in dairy cattle across the United States, with the leading dairy, turkey, and egg laying associations urging USDA and its federal partners to support the development of safe and effective H5Nx vaccinations for dairy cows, turkeys, and egg laying hens.

In a recent letter to Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollin, leaders of NMPF, IDFA, United Egg Producers, and the National Turkey Federation called attention to the urgency of the situation and requested to meet and share more with the secretary.

“If this virus continues to circulate among dairy herds, turkey and egg layer operations, wild mammals, wild birds, and people working closely with birds and dairy cows, it will remain a significant and imposing threat to our nation’s food security and, therefore, our national security,” the organizations say in their letter. The letter also highlights the importance of working with international trade partners to ensure “policies reflect the new realities of a world that is constantly combating H5Nx.”

The letter from NMPF and other partners was delivered the same day Zoetis announced that the USDA Center for Veterinary Biologics

issued the company a conditional license for its Avian Influenza Vaccine, H5N2 Subtype, Killed Virus, which is labeled for use in chickens. The broiler industry has come out against vaccines to date because of possible effects on trade..

Doud Calls for Greater Trade Enforcement in Congressional Hearing, Ag Outlook Forum. Gregg Doud recently told members of the House Ways & Means Trade Subcommittee that the U.S. government needs to make sure trade agreements are enforced, benefiting dairy producers, workers, and shippers who rely on exports.

“In addition to pursuing greater market access, Congress and the administration have a responsibility to work together to enforce existing U.S trade agreements,” Doud said in his oral remarks. “Trade enforcement is not a matter of political or legal technicalities. We have seen that inadequate enforcement has real world consequences by restricting opportunities for American farmers.”

Exports are indispensable for U.S. dairy farmers and workers, Doud said in the opening of his testimony. Most of those dairy exports are shipped to markets where the United States has an existing bilateral trade agreement — underscoring the need for an initiative taking U.S. trade agenda. Doud urged policymakers to pursue trade policies that empower U.S. dairy to compete with the European Union and New Zealand, who have benefited from increased market access from recent trade agreements made by their governments.

Priority U.S. trade agreements for enforcement and focus include the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), Doud said. Roughly 44 percent of U.S. dairy exports are shipped to USMCA partners, illustrating why it is critical to ensure that Canada and Mexico are in full compliance and that the United States maximize dairy export opportunities with both partners, he said.

Doud in both written and oral testimony outlined specific USMCA enforcement issues the United States should prioritize, including Canada’s misadministration of its tariff rate quota system and circumvention of dairy protein export caps. Doud emphasized the need for new deals that cut tariffs, tackle non-tariff trade barriers, and are vigorously enforced.

Doud later that week spoke at the USDA’s annual Agricultural Outlook Forum, elaborating on his testimony with an overview of U.S. trade relationships around the world, specifically calling out the European Union for misusing rules and protections to shield their markets from U.S. farmers.

“If I say anything nice about the way Brussels does ag, it was completely by mistake,” he said. “I think it is also reasonable to assume its own farmers have the same opinion.”

Later that day, Doud joined a roundtable discussion hosted by the House Agriculture Committee to discuss how Congress and the Trump Administration can promote trade policies that best support the dairy and agricultural industries.

NMPF’s Morris Testifies Before USTR. NMPF Executive Vice President for Trade Policy and Global Affairs Shawna Morris testified at a hearing of the U.S. Office of the Trade Representative (USTR) recently, outlining the European Union’s misuse of Geographical Indication systems to monopolize generic terms such as “parmesan.”

Morris urged the U.S. government to proactively establish protections for common names and address the European Union’s GI campaign through the new U.S. “fair and reciprocal tariff plan.”

Morris was testifying on behalf of the Consortium for Common Food Names, which NMPF staffs. CCFN also submitted comments on the issue as part of the agency’s annual Special 301 Review, which is used to set USTR’s intellectual property agenda.

Dairy Community Responds to Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee Scientific Report. NMPF recently submitted comments to USDA and the Department of Health and Human Services to reiterate dairy’s importance as the departments begin writing the 2025–2030 Dietary Guidelines for Americans. NMPF also encouraged its members to share their voices by participating in NMPF’s advocacy campaign.

The comments and advocacy campaign were the final opportunity to highlight dairy’s key role in American diets until after the next guidelines are drafted. This round of comments also gave the public an opportunity to respond to the Scientific Report of the 2025

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IRM Red Books Are Here

We would like to thank Performance Livestock & Feed Company and Carolina Stockyards for again sponsoring this book.

The 2025 version is now available to help cattle producers effectively & efficiently record daily production efforts, which can help enhance profitablity and reduce stress levels. In addition to Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) best practices and proper injection technique information, it has more than 100 pages to record calving activity, herd health, pasture use, cattle inventory, body condition, cattle treatment, A.I. breeding records, and more. It also contains a calendar and notes section.

Simply return the order form below, along with $7.00 for each book to: N.C. Cattlemen’s Association 2228 N. Main Street Fuquay Varina, NC 27526

You can now order them through our website at www.nccattle.com/resources/merchandise/red-book-order-form. You can also call our office at 919-552-9111 or email us at kim@nccattle.com

National Milk Producers Federation News

Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee, which was published on December 10. The advisory committee reviewing what Americans should be eating spent two years evaluating scientific evidence and considering stakeholder input.

The final report reflects a great deal of hard work by NMPF’s members and allies to maintain dairy foods’ central role in American diets and maintains the prominent role of dairy foods in a healthy diet, including recommending three servings daily, a big win for the dairy community. The review also made clear that expanding the dairy food group to include additional plant based alternative beverages (outside of fortified soy beverages, which is already included) is not supported by scientific evidence.

NMPF had hammered the point that imitators do not offer the same consistent package of nutrition provided by real milk. The committee agreed, which is especially important to the school lunch program, as the dietary guidelines affect the food options available to children through school meals and other nutrition programs.

NMPF expressed disappointment that the committee only recommends consumption of unflavored milk, especially as it acknowledged that flavored milk contains beneficial nutrients, and the committee did not explicitly conclude any connection between flavored milk consumption and obesity risk. And while the committee found evidence that substituting higher fat dairy for lower fat dairy showed no association with cardiovascular disease morbidity, the committee still only recommends consumption of low fat and non-fat dairy products.

NMPF will continue to urge the departments to look more fully at recent science supporting the benefits of full fat dairy in the diet as they develop the final guidelines.

FARM Program Releases ES Version 3 User Guide and Training.

FARM recently released its new Environmental Stewardship Version 3 User Guide, providing key information about the evaluation tool to its participants and aiding evaluators when completing Version 3 evaluations.

The guide details the data inputs of the new FARM ES evaluation to foster consistency and confidence in data collection. It also explains the output of the Version 3 assessment to support results interpretation.

FARM ES Version 3, launched last October, gives dairy farmers a scientifically robust tool with more advanced features to assess the impact of potential practice or technology changes. Version 3 incorporates the Ruminant Farm System (RuFaS) model, a wholefarm model simulating dairy farm production and environmental impact. FARM continues to create resources for on-farm best management practices, advancing its mission of continuous improvement within the dairy industry.

The FARM Program, in tandem with the guide, also launched a self paced, online training course through the FARM Database. The training contains six modules that evaluators can choose to complete in one session or throughout multiple sessions. The course covers information about the program, how to consistently collect the data inputs, and how to interpret the results. Evaluators must

complete the course to be certified to complete FARM ES Version 3 assessments.

To complement the self paced, online training, FARM evaluators can enroll in advanced training sessions that take a deeper dive into several FARM ES topics. Each session is designed to address key areas of evaluation, such as data inputs, interpreting results, and available resources. Sessions also explore the new scenario analysis function of the Version 3 evaluation tool, so evaluators can better support farmers in using this new functionality to inform decision making.

NMPF Staff Address Conferences, Co-op Meetings. NMPF staff actively engaged with dairy farmers and the broader industry in early 2025, informing producers and addressing wide ranging needs.

NMPF Chief Science Officer Dr. Jamie Jonker’s continued outreach on H5N1 in dairy cattle this year has included panel discussions at the Dairy Farmers of Canada Winter Policy Conference in Ottawa and the 2025 USDA Ag Outlook Forum in Arlington, Virginia. Also appearing at the forum, in addition to Gregg Doud, was Executive Vice President Jaime Castaneda, who presented on a panel on finding opportunities in changing markets.

Also speaking on H5N1 was Theresa Sweeney-Murphy, senior director of communications and outreach, who participated in Ontario Dairy Days, where she shared with Canadian dairy farmers insights and lessons learned from the U.S. dairy industry’s experience with H5N1.

Senior Director for FARM Animal Care Beverly Hampton Phifer hosted a conversation during FarmFirst’s Annual Conference in Onalaska, Wis., providing background on the FARM Program, its role within the dairy supply chain, and implementation of FARM Animal Care.

Regulatory Affairs Director Miquela Hanselman shared resources to help vets better understand the FARM Program’s mission of continuous improvement at the American Association of Bovine Practitioners’ Annual Recent Graduate Conference in Norman, Oklahoma.

Chief Sustainability Officer Nicole Ayache attended the Ohio Dairy Quality Conference in Wooster, Ohio, to provide information about industry level sustainability initiatives and introduce the updates to FARM Environmental Stewardship.

Will Loux also traveled to Boise, Ida., to speak on the year ahead in dairy to Darigold Young Cooperators (YC). Loux also gave a market outlook to new NMPF associate member Idaho Milk Products. Loux spoke on exports in the coming year at the World Ag Expo in Tulare, California.

FARM Environmental Stewardship was another topic of discussion at Darigold’s YC meeting. Sage Saffran presented to the group, highlighting the recent updates to FARM ES and how Version 3 enables on-farm decision making.

Hain Joins NMPF as Chief Veterinary Officer. Dr. Meggan Hain has joined NMPF as its Chief Veterinary Officer for NMPF and the National Dairy FARM Program, a new position leading NMPF’s efforts to advance animal welfare standards, support dairy producers,

and promote science based best practices across the industry.

With two decades of veterinary expertise in dairy health and welfare, Hain has been instrumental in developing animal welfare programs, disease response strategies, and quality assurance initiatives.

Meggan comes to NMPF after serving as the Managing Veterinarian and Animal Care Specialist at Organic Valley, overseeing the animal health and welfare program for 1,800 farms nationwide. She holds both a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine and a Bachelor of Science in Animal Science from Ohio State University.

Dairy Organizations Urge Intensified Negotiations to Restore Trade Flows. Leaders from the NMPF and the U.S. Dairy Export Council (USDEC) released the following statements today in response to retaliatory measures announced by Mexico, Canada, and China.

“The President believes tariffs are necessary to address the opioid crisis in the United States. We urge Mexico and Canada to take U.S. concerns seriously,” said Gregg Doud. “Mexico and Canada are valuable trading partners that American agriculture depends on, and trade with those countries is critical to the well being of dairy farmers. Let’s focus on getting the concerns ironed out quickly so we can focus on bolstering these critical trade relationships. Then, let’s put those tariff tools to work, driving change with the trading partner that’s brushed off U.S. concerns for far too long — the European Union.”

“Exports are fundamental to the health of the U.S. dairy industry. One day’s worth of milk production out of every six is destined for international consumers, — and U.S. dairy sales to Mexico, Canada, and China account for 51 percent of our total global exports. That’s a lot at stake,” said Krysta Harden, President and CEO of USDEC. “Dairy farmers and manufacturers are counting on a swift resolution to this impasse and urge a redoubling of efforts at the negotiating table to find a workable way forward that addresses U.S. national security concerns while also preserving export flows that are vital to supporting American farmers and workers. We’re eager to focus on working with the Administration on expanding global opportunities for American dairy products in ways that build on the existing base of sales to our trading partners.”

F

armers

Ready to Face Policy Challenges, NMPF Farmers

Say at Board Meeting. Dairy farmers from across the nation celebrated fairer milk prices for farmers and pledged to work together to meet challenges on labor, trade, and other issues at the National Milk Producers Federation’s Board of Directors meeting, which concluded recently.

“We’re in a fast moving environment, with a new administration and things changing every day,” said NMPF Board Chairman Randy Mooney, a farmer from Rogersville, Mo., in remarks at the meeting. “We are happy to have NMPF watching out for us here in Washington.”

NMPF’s board meeting brought together more than 50 farmers and dairy cooperative leaders at the nation’s largest dairy farmer trade organization, which serves as the policy voice for dairy farmers and the cooperatives they own in Washington.

Dairy farmers at the meeting heard presentations updating pressing dairy issues, including agricultural labor, trade, and H5N1

bird flu, which has now been circulating in dairy cattle for roughly one year. Milk producers also celebrated a policy win — nationwide adoption of a new Federal Milk Marketing Order that begins taking effect on June 1. The plan, spearheaded by NMPF, culminates a four year process of seeking fairer pricing for farmers and cooperatives.

“The top two issues we have today are immigration and tariffs,” Mooney said. “Nothing else means anything else to us if we don’t have anyone to milk our cows.” On trade, he said day-to-day turbulence doesn’t change dairy’s commitment to building exports. “We intend to play in the world market, and we will invest in the world market to do it,” he said.

NMPF’s board also charted a path toward a successor organization to the Cooperatives Working Together export assistance program, which has helped dairy build overseas markets. Reflecting

National Milk Producers Federation News continued on the next page

2025 Spotlight iSSueS Schedule

Most of the breed associations in North and South Carolina have stepped forward and renewed their contracts for Spotlight sections in The Carolina Cattle Connection for 2025. If your breed is not featured as a Spotlight section and you would like to inquire on any open months please feel free to contact me. Below is the tentative schedule for the upcoming year.

2025 Reserved Spotlight Issues

JANUARY CHAROLAIS FEBRUARY FORAGES MARCH ANGUS APRIL PIEDMONTESE MAY BRAHMAN JUNE HEREFORD

JULY ----------------------

AUGUST SIMMENTAL SEPTEMBER SANTA GERTRUDIS

OCTOBER WAGYU

NOVEMBER BRANGUS DECEMBER BRAUNVIEH

For more information about your breed’s Spotlight Issue, contact: The Carolina Cattle Connection 2228 N. Main Street • Fuquay-Varina, NC 27526 919-552-9111 • mail@nccattle.com

National Milk Producers Federation News

that reformation, the board voted to rename the program NEXT (NMPF Exports & Trade) while authorizing a new business plan for final approval in June. The board also welcomed two new directors:

• Mark Leichtfuss of FarmFirst Dairy Cooperative in Wisconsin, and;

• Richard Hill of Upstate Niagara Cooperative in New York.

The board also created the Dr. Peter Vitaliano Legacy Scholarship as part of NMPF’s National Dairy Leadership Scholarship Program. The award, named for a recently retired longtime NMPF economist, will be used to help support a student who demonstrates attributes exemplified by Dr. Vitaliano to honor his decades of commitment to the success of U.S. dairy producers and cooperatives.

USDEC and NMPF Sign Partnership with Guatemalan Dairy Association. The U.S. Dairy Export Council, National Milk Producers Federation, and Guatemalan Dairy Development Association, signed a memorandum of understanding yesterday that will strengthen ties between the U.S. and Guatemalan dairy industries as they advocate for free and fair trade policies and promote greater dairy consumption.

The agreement outlines objectives aimed at strengthening communication and knowledge sharing between the two industries, underscoring the economic and social significance of the dairy sector, and addressing trade barriers that negatively impact both producers and consumers alike.

“This agreement marks an important milestone in the U.S. dairy industry’s ongoing dedication to collaborating with and supporting our partners in Guatemala and throughout Latin America,” said Krysta Harden, president and CEO of USDEC. “A strong trade relationship benefits both the U.S. and Guatemalan dairy sectors, and it’s clear that imposing misguided trade barriers harms everyone, particularly Guatemalan consumers. We are excited to work together to continue to build a strong partnership between our two industries.”

“The U.S. and Guatemalan dairy sectors share values and common goals,” said Gregg Doud, president and CEO of NMPF. “We’re thrilled to collaborate with ASODEL to champion effective, forward thinking policies that will strengthen the dairy industry in the Americas and globally.”

“ASODEL is dedicated to improving the competitiveness and long term viability of the Guatemala dairy industry,” said Ramiro Pérez, director general of ASODEL. “This collaboration with USDEC and NMPF strengthens our capacity to fulfill that mission, supporting not only our members but also Guatemalan consumers who rely on both domestic and imported dairy products.”

The agreement complements similar agreements USDEC and NMPF have made throughout Latin America, including with the Colombian Association of Dairy Industry (Asoleche) Sociedad Rural Argentina, the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA), and the Chilean Federacion Nacional de Productores de Leche (Fedeleche).

About the National Milk Producer’s Federation. NMPF was organized in 1916 to provide a forum for dairy producers and the

cooperatives they own to participate in public policy discussions. NMPF advocates policies to Congress, U.S. and foreign government agencies, industry organizations, the news media, and the public.

We use our unique resources to harness the ever changing climate in the politics and marketing of milk and dairy products from farm to table to promote the economic well being of dairy producers and their cooperatives through coordinated industry efforts.

NMPF addresses policies concerning milk pricing, domestic and international market development, agriculture credit and taxation, environmental issues, food safety and health, animal welfare, product standards and labeling, and research and biotechnology.

Our mission is to foster an economic and political climate in which dairy producers and the cooperatives they own can thrive and prosper. Achieving such success assures consumers of adequate supplies of wholesome and nutritious dairy products at affordable prices.

This helps improve the bottom line of the associate members who provide services to dairy producers and cooperatives that they represent. For more information, visit www.nmpf.org

Merck Animal Health Donates $50,000 to the National Professional Agricultural Student Organization to Support Its Educational Advancement Program. Inaugural donation will foster agricultural education and leadership opportunities for future industry talent. Merck Animal Health recently announced it will donate $50,000 to the National Professional Agricultural Student Organization (PAS) to support its newly established Educational Advancement Program.

This contribution marks Merck Animal Health as the inaugural donor for this initiative, which aims to enhance agricultural education, particularly at two year and community based college programs that offer educational opportunities in agriculture. These institutions are pivotal in providing practical, hands-on training to equip future agricultural talent with the necessary skills to excel in the industry.

“At Merck Animal Health, we recognize the importance of educating the next generation of agricultural leaders and supporting the institutions that helped them grow,” said Scott Stehlik, D.V.M., director of swine and poultry technical services for Merck Animal Health. “This investment in the Educational Advancement Program shows our commitment to the agricultural industry and will empower students by providing them with the tools they need to thrive in their careers.”

“The industry needs a more robust pipeline of talented people to fill roles across the full breadth of agriculture. This initiative will enable institutions to recruit more students while building and expanding their program offerings to meet this industry demand for years to come,” Stehlik added. “We are proud to play a role in shaping the future of the agriculture industry by providing talented students access to the skills and hands-on training they need to be successful.”

The support from Merck Animal Health will not only help fund grants for these educational institutions but also support student scholarships and leadership opportunities in agriculture. The announcement took place during the 2025 National PAS Conference, which was held in Sheridan, Wyo., from March 17–20.

The National Professional Agricultural Student Organization is dedicated to developing two and four year college level professional agriculture students for the workplace. Through participation in employment experience programs, skill set development, networking opportunities, and organizational activities, PAS equips students with the knowledge and experience necessary to succeed.

2025

“We are incredibly grateful for Merck Animal Health’s generous contribution, which will significantly enhance our Educational Advancement Program,” said Jennifer Bloss, executive director for PAS. “This support not only helps us provide vital resources for agricultural education, but it also opens doors for students to gain valuable leadership experience. Together, we can cultivate the future of agriculture.”

Applications for the program are available at nationalpas.org.

About Merck Animal Health . At Merck, we are unified around our purpose —we use the power of leading edge science to save and improve lives around the world. For more than a century, we’ve been at the forefront of research, bringing forward medicines, vaccines, and innovative health solutions for the world’s most challenging diseases. Through its commitment to The Science of Healthier Animals, Merck Animal Health offers veterinarians, farmers, producers, pet owners, and governments one of the widest ranges of veterinary pharmaceuticals, vaccines, and health management solutions and services, as well as an extensive suite of connected technology that includes identification, traceability, and monitoring products. Merck Animal Health is dedicated to preserving and improving the health, well being, and performance of animals and the people who care for them. It invests extensively in dynamic and comprehensive R&D resources and a modern, global supply chain. Merck Animal Health is present in more than 50 countries, while its products are available in some 150 markets. For more information, visit www.merck-animal-health.com

South Carolina Sale Barn Cattle Receipts

Vaccine Storage and Handling: Why the Temperature Matters. It is generally accepted that cattle vaccines should be stored at temperatures between 35°F–46°F. But what happens if they aren’t?

“Exposure to temperatures beyond the optimal range has the potential to negatively impact the effectiveness of both killed and modified live vaccines,” says Dr. Catherine Dowling, a beef technical services veterinarian with Zoetis. “The extent of that impact will depend on a variety of factors — including the vaccine type, for how long, and to what extreme the vaccine has been exposed.”

What happens when vaccines are exposed to freezing temps? “Vaccine freezing presents some unique hazards, and killed vaccines are especially susceptible,” Dr. Dowling says. “In a best case scenario, the vaccine, or the adjuvant within it, will simply be rendered ineffective. This means that the animal’s immune response to that vaccine will not be as robust as it could be if the product was handled properly prior to administration.”

More serious consequences may occur if the vaccine includes a Gram-negative bacterial component, often found in products used for scours and respiratory disease prevention. When these types of vaccines are exposed to freezing temperatures, they release compounds within the bottle called endotoxins.

“Endotoxins are normally contained very well within the bacterial cell walls, but they can burst as a result of freezing temperatures, leaving us with a situation called free endotoxins,” Dr. Dowling explains. “Vaccines containing free endotoxins may cause animals to experience a severe, life threatening reaction after vaccination, with symptoms closely resembling anaphylaxis.”

What happens to vaccines exposed to temperatures above 46°F? Just like with freezing, exposure to temperatures above the labeled range can reduce vaccine potency and effectiveness. That’s why it’s important to keep vaccines cool and out of direct sunlight as much as possible. For modified live vaccines specifically, this likely means mixing only one bottle at a time and using the product within an hour of mixing, as heat and sunlight quickly work to degrade the vaccine after it’s mixed.

Is your farm refrigerator a culprit? It’s easy to think about chute side scenarios in which a product may be exposed to temperatures outside the ideal range, but it’s also important to consider where vaccines are typically stored — your on-farm refrigerator. You may be surprised at the variability in temperatures within your refrigerator.

In fact, a University of Arkansas case study comparing 191 onfarm refrigerators found that only 26.7 percent of refrigerators kept

the temperature within the acceptable range.1

Dr. Dowling recommends keeping a thermometer near the vaccines in the refrigerator and recording the temperature at different times throughout the day to ensure vaccines are stored according to label directions. Avoid storing vaccines in the door or at the back of the refrigerator to limit the risk of temperature variability or freezing.

Always refer to the product label for product storage and administration specifics, and contact your local veterinarian or Zoetis representative with any questions.

References

1 Troxel T.R., Barham B.L. Case Study: The Temperature Variability of Refrigerators Storing Animal Health Products. The Professional Animal Scientist. 2009;25(2):202-206.

About Zoetis. As the world’s leading animal health company, Zoetis is driven by a singular purpose: to nurture our world and humankind by advancing care for animals. After innovating ways to predict, prevent, detect, and treat animal illness for more than 70 years, Zoetis continues to stand by those raising and caring for animals worldwide – from veterinarians and pet owners to livestock farmers and ranchers. The company’s leading portfolio and pipeline of medicines, vaccines, diagnostics, and technologies make a difference in over 100 countries. A Fortune 500 company, Zoetis generated revenue of $8.5 billion in 2023 with approximately 14,100 employees. For more information, visit www.zoetis.com.

NEWS

Latest Animal Healthcare company by Robo Hendrickson launches.

Calving season is here, and a groundbreaking solution in digestive support has arrived.

LifeStock Animal Health introduces Calf Start; a 3-in-1 product designed to help newborn calves thrive in high risk situations. This innovative solution focuses on supporting the health and growth of calves during their critical first week of life.

Developed in Partnership with Experts – Calf Start was created in collaboration with a Ph.D. nutritionist from Montana State University over three years of intensive research and development.

The product combines the three essential needs newborn calves have in the first 24 hours of life — antibodies, microbiota (in the form of probiot), and vitamins A, D and natural E. Together, these components provide comprehensive support that newborn calves need to build strength and resilience.

“My original digestive health company for horses, FullBucket, found massive success helping horse breeders overcome digestive issues in newborn foals at high risk operations,” explains Robo Hendrickson, founder of LifeStock Animal Health. “The products available at the time treated symptoms but overlooked many of the other challenges young animals face during their first week of life. Calf Start is the only product that addresses not only the symptoms but also the underlying causes and prevention of digestive health issues.”

Addressing Critical Needs Early – Newborn calves enter the world without a functional immune system, making them highly vulnerable to pathogens present on the mother’s tail, the ground, and nearby feed sources. “It can take weeks for a calf to naturally develop immunity,” says Robo. “Studies show that calves who fall ill early often face prolonged recovery times or fail to fully recover at all. Calf Start helps bridge this vulnerable gap by providing targeted immune and digestive support.”

All Natural and Easy to Use – Calf Start is an all natural product designed for convenience. It comes in two forms: a ready-to-use paste and a powder that can be easily mixed with water or milk replacer, making it simple for ranchers to administer.

To learn more about Calf Start and how it can support your herd, visit lifestockhealth.com

UPDATE

BeefTech Producer Summit Brings Together 250+ People. Event features information, insights for independent cattle producers. The beef market outlook, cow herd expansion, the benefit of data collection, and the value of harnessing the right technology in cattle production were highlighted during the BeefTech Producer Summit. Kevin Good of CattleFax and Dr. Dan Thomson of Production Animal Consultation headlined the event, recently hosted by Performance Livestock Analytics (PLA).

Designed to support independent cattle producers, the event drew more than 250 producers, nutritionists, veterinarians, and allied industry representatives from across the country to Sioux City, Iowa, on February 26-27. Participants learned from experts, made new connections, heard from PLA’s chief operating officer, and explored what’s new with Performance Beef, the company’s cattle management software.

Market Outlook - Good, vice president of market analysis and industry relations at CattleFax, discussed the current cattle market and factors affecting prices today.

“We’re sitting here with record high values this last month, month and a half. I think the question is, “Will these values continue?” Good said.

He anticipates market highs are approaching, likely in the next year or two. However, cattle feeders may pay more than they’d like to

for yearlings and calves, he said.

“Demand is great today, but we need to recognize we still have a consumer out there respecting and loving our product because it is a better product as long as they have dollars to spend,” Good said. “If that changes, then we have to reassess and say, well, maybe the market high is pretty much in place.”

Cow/Calf Expansion - Year-to-date, beef cow slaughter is down 21 percent, dairy cow slaughter is down 4 percent, and the cow market is within a few cents of the highs from last summer, Good said. Those cow market figures suggest cow herd expansion. However, heifer numbers tell a different story.

“Heifers that were either bred or intended to be bred coming into this year are at a record low,” Good said. “Will we have a bigger cow herd on the first of 2026 or not? Cow slaughter says yes, but at the same time, we don’t have the heifers in the system, and because of that, we might be flatter for another year.”

Unless drought eases significantly, Good indicated cow herd expansion will be very slow.

View video highlights from Good’s presentation at https://youtu. be/6W3-2L44pj0

Technology Holds Promise for Beef Industry - Thomson, Ph.D., DVM, is a feedlot veterinarian and CEO of Production Animal Consultation, which provides veterinary care for 30 percent of the cattle on feed in the U.S. Thomson also hosts “DocTalk,” a weekly RFD-TV show.

He challenged cattle producers to think differently, embrace the right technology, and look for every opportunity for passive data collection.

“Robotics, automation, passive information, and passive data are the future,” he said.

“We have to use the data and have the ability to interpret the data to make changes, whether it’s on the fly or at a set point in time.”

Thomson reassured cattle producers that technology won’t replace them. “Technology is going to bring more people into agriculture, not less. We’re just going to have different jobs and different routines.”

View video highlights from Thomson’s presentation at https:// youtu.be/Lja-ql7qESg

Company Roadmap and Performance Beef Updates - PLA Cofounder Dustin Balsley shared the company’s vision and progress since PLA gained its independence from Zoetis in 2023.

“Our focus is the independent cattle producer. We’re committed to doing what’s best for them because they’re the people I answer to — my dad, my neighbors, and you,” Balsley said.

During the summit, PLA’s sales and customer success team answered questions and helped attendees better use Performance Beef technology. Balsley shared newly released features, including customizable dashboards and invoicing upgrades.

“Our goal is to make more usable features while keeping it simple and expanding data insights for decision making,” Balsley said. “Looking forward, we’ll continue to look at the ecosystem and partnerships. We’re talking to other innovative companies, figuring out what is the best way for us to integrate data and provide services back to our customers.”

Attendees brought their devices and ended the day with a Performance Beef walkthrough, exploring new features, tips, and an in-depth dive into key features to maximize their software investment.

“I expected this to be mainly an educational event, which it definitely was,” said Annie Doer, a nutritionist for Kent Feeds. “But it was also a very motivational event that touched me on a personal and professional level.”

View video highlights from Balsley’s presentation at https:// youtu.be/kAAzC55Cdrw

About Performance Livetock Analytics . PLA is a technology company that simplifies data and analytics for the livestock industry. Our team used practical insights from producers and data engineers to create the industry’s first cloud based platform We provide livestock producers with powerful analytics to make better marketing and management decisions, improve sustainability, and boost profitability.

NEWS

Purina Animal Nutrition offers $20,000 in student scholarships. Scholarship funds aim to support incoming and current college or vocational students involved in animal agriculture. Purina Animal Nutrition, along with the Land O’Lakes Foundation, has reopened its annual scholarship program designed to assist students with experience in livestock production and animal stewardship in pursuing their passions and furthering their education.

Undergraduate students and current high school seniors who have experience raising and caring for small or large livestock, equine, and/or poultry are eligible to apply for a $5,000 scholarship. Four students will be awarded based on applications that illustrate the impact animal agriculture has had on their lives, along with details on academic achievements, leadership skills, community involvement, and a clear vision for their future.

Scholarship applications will be accepted through April 17, and awardees will be notified in June. Funds will be distributed for the Fall 2025 semester at their current or anticipated educational institution. The scholarship is open to all high school seniors who plan to enroll in full time undergraduate study at an accredited two or four year college, university, or vocational-technical school for the entire upcoming academic semester/term and undergraduate students enrolled in an accredited two or four year college, university, or vocational-technical school.

To learn more about and apply to the Purina Animal Nutrition Scholarship, visit www.purinamills.com/scholarship

About Purina Animal Nutrition. Purina is a national organization serving producers, animal owners and their families through more than 4,700 local cooperatives, independent dealers and other large retailers throughout the United States. Driven to unlock the greatest potential in every animal, the company is an industry-leading innovator offering a valued portfolio of complete feeds, supplements, premixes, ingredients, and specialty technologies for the livestock and lifestyle animal markets. Purina Animal Nutrition is headquartered in Arden Hills, Minn., and a wholly owned subsidiary of Land O’Lakes, Inc. For more information, visit www.purinamills.com

Classified Section

Joe and Robin Hampton 345 Withrows Creek Lane Mt. Ulla, NC 28125 704-880-2488

Ricky McLeod 1320 Old Manning Rd., Sumter, SC 29150 803-983-0816 wrricky@ftc-i.net • www.blackcrestfarm.com

Walter D. Shealy III and Family 20977 US Hwy 76 • Newberry, SC 29108 803-924-1000 • 706-590-0451 walter@blackgrove.com www.blackgrove.com

Animal Health

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Upcoming Events

ANGUS

Apr. 5 — Grassy Valley Angus 32nd Annual Production Sale, Greeneville, Tenn.

Apr. 5 — Green Hills Gelbvieh & Hope Cattle Services Spring Turn Out Bull & Female Sale, Oxford, N.C.

Apr. 12 — Knoll Crest Farm Spring Bull & Female Sale, Red House, Va.

Apr. 12 — Southern Synergy 18th Annual Angus Female Production Sale, Wadley, Ga.

Apr. 15 — Tucker Family Farms Professional Replacement Female Sale, Amherst, Va.

Apr. 17 — Virginia Beef Expo Angus Sale, Harrisonburg, Va.

Apr. 26 — N.C. Angus Association’s 41st Annual Spring Fever Sale, Union Grove, N.C.

May 3 — Springfield Angus Complete Dispersal, Louisburg, N.C.

May 3 — Whitestone Farm 32nd Annual Pasture Performance Tested

Angus Bull & Female Sale, Aldie, Va.

May 17 — Chessie Creek Farm 3rd Annual Bred Heifer Sale, Walterboro, S.C.

Oct. 11 — Chessie Creek Farm Angus Female Sale, Walterboro, S.C.

Oct. 18 — Fred Smith Company Ranch Extra Effort Sale, Clayton, N.C.

Oct. 24-25 — Yon Family Farms Maternal Roots Fall Female & Bull Sale, Ridge Spring, S.C.

Nov. 8 — Chessie Creek Farm Angus Bull Sale, Walterboro, S.C.

Dec. 6 — 50th Annual Union County Performance Tested Bull Sale, Monroe, N.C. 2026

Jan. 3 — 17th Annual EBS Farms Annual Bull & Female Sale, Norwood, N.C.

Feb. 7 — 50th Annual Clemson Bull Test Sale, Clemson, S.C.

BRAHMAN

Jun. 7 — Carolinas Brahman Breeders Association 45th Annual Sale, Laurens, S.C.

BRANGUS

Oct. 24-25 — Yon Family Farms Maternal Roots Fall Female & Bull Sale, Ridge Spring, S.C. 2026

Feb. 7 — 50th Annual Clemson Bull Test Sale, Clemson, S.C.

CHAROLAIS

Apr. 5 — Green Hills Gelbvieh & Hope Cattle Services Spring Turn Out Bull & Female Sale, Oxford, N.C.

Apr. 17 — Virginia Beef Expo Quest 4 Quality Charolais Sale, Harrisonburg, Va.

Apr. 26 — Appalachian Classic Sale, Knoxville, Tenn.

GELBVIEH

Apr. 5 — Green Hills Gelbvieh & Hope Cattle Services Spring Turn Out Bull & Female Sale, Oxford, N.C.

Apr. 15 — Tucker Family Farms Professional Replacement Female Sale, Amherst, Va.

Dec. 6 — 50th Annual Union County Performance Tested Bull Sale, Monroe, N.C.

HEREFORD

Apr. 12 — Knoll Crest Farm Spring Bull & Female Sale, Red House, Va.

Apr. 17 — Virginia Beef Expo Hereford Female & Bull Sale, Harrisonburg, Va.

May 3 — 5th Annual S.C. Hereford Association • Red Angus Association of the Carolinas Joint Hereford & Red Angus Sale, Pendleton, S.C.

May 24 — Four B Farm Fields of Gold Female Sale, Shelby, N.C.

2026

Feb. 7 — 50th Annual Clemson Bull Test Sale, Clemson, S.C.

LIMOUSIN

Apr. 5 — Green Hills Gelbvieh & Hope Cattle Services Spring Turn Out Bull & Female Sale, Oxford, N.C.

RED ANGUS

Apr. 5 — Green Hills Gelbvieh & Hope Cattle Services Spring Turn Out Bull & Female Sale, Oxford, N.C.

Apr. 15 — Tucker Family Farms Professional Replacement Female Sale, Amherst, Va.

Apr. 26 — New York Red Angus Association “Right on Red” Bull & Heifer Sale, Waterloo, N.Y.

2026

Feb. 7 — 50th Annual Clemson Bull Test Sale, Clemson, S.C.

SANTA GERTRUDIS

May 10 — 52nd Annual Breeders of the Carolinas Sale, Monroe, N.C.

SIMMENTAL

Apr. 5 — Grassy Valley Angus 32nd Annual Production Sale, Greeneville, Tenn.

Apr. 17 — Virginia Beef Expo Simmental Sale, Harrisonburg, Va.

Oct. 18 — Fred Smith Company Ranch Extra Effort Sale, Clayton, N.C.

Oct. 24-25 — Yon Family Farms Maternal Roots Fall Female & Bull Sale, Ridge Spring, S.C.

Dec. 6 — 50th Annual Union County Performance Tested Bull Sale, Monroe, N.C. 2026

Jan. 3 — 17th Annual EBS Farms Annual Bull & Female Sale, Norwood, N.C.

Feb. 7 — 50th Annual Clemson Bull Test Sale, Clemson, S.C.

WAGYU

Nov. 1 — Wilders Wagyu StayWILD ‘25 Production Sale, Turkey, N.C.

OTHER EVENTS

Apr. 12 — N.C. State University Livestock Judging Team Reunion, Raleigh, N.C.

Apr. 12 — 12th Annual Wolfpack Roundup Sale, Raleigh, N.C.

Apr. 15 — Piedmont Regional Forage Growers Conference, Yadkinville, N.C.

Apr. 17 — 35th Anniversary Virginia Beef Expo, Harrisonburg, Va.

Apr. 29 — N.C. Forage & Grassland Council Spring Conference, Statesville, N.C.

Jul 16-17 — Tri-State Ag Expo, Clemson, S.C.

LIVESTOCK MARKET SALES

Apr. 1 — Mid-Atlantic Cattle Sales Video Auction, via macsvideo.com

Apr. 2 — Stanly County Livestock Market Weekly Sale, Norwood, N.C.

Apr. 7 — Harward Brothers Livestock Market Weekly Sale, Statesville, N.C.

Apr. 7 — Saluda Livestock Exchange Weekly Sale, Saluda, S.C.

Apr. 9 — Stanly County Livestock Market Weekly Sale, Norwood, N.C.

Apr. 14 — Harward Brothers Livestock Market Weekly Sale, Statesville, N.C.

Apr. 14 — Saluda Livestock Exchange Weekly Sale, Saluda, S.C.

Apr. 15 — Mid-Atlantic Cattle Sales Video Auction, via macsvideo.com

Apr. 16 — Stanly County Livestock Market Weekly Sale, Norwood, N.C.

Apr. 21 — Harward Brothers Livestock Market Weekly Sale, Statesville, N.C.

Apr. 21 — Saluda Livestock Exchange Weekly Sale, Saluda, S.C.

Apr. 23 — Stanly County Livestock Market Weekly Sale, Norwood, N.C.

Apr. 28 — Harward Brothers Livestock Market Weekly Sale, Statesville, N.C.

Apr. 28 — Saluda Livestock Exchange Weekly Sale, Saluda, S.C.

Apr. 30 — Stanly County Livestock Market Weekly Sale, Norwood, N.C.