Winter Issue 2025

Winter 2025

Official Publication of the Ohio Cattlemen’s Association

2 | Ohio Cattleman | Winter 2025

Winter 2025

Official Publication of the Ohio Cattlemen’s Association

Features

18 20 22 24

Editorial

News & Notes

BEST Program Commences 2024-25 Season OCA Elects New Members to Board of Directors

18 22

Livin’ the

2025 Annual Meeting Schedule

Industry Excellence Award- Dr. Aaron Arnett

4

OCA News & Views

6

Harsh Realities

8

The Ruff Review

10

Forage Focus

13

2025 Ohio Beef Expo Schedule

14

Beef Checkoff News

21

Ohio Beef Youth Council Launch

26

OCA News

life

BEST Program Commences

22

2025 Annual Meeting Schedule

Reference

On the Cover

16

Allied Industry Council

29

Calendar of Events

30

Parting Shots

30

Advertisers’ Index

Photo taken by Hannah Weymouth, Communications Manager and Managing Editor at R Genetics in South Charleston, Ohio.

24

Industry Excellence Award Winter 2025 | Ohio Cattleman | 3

Ohio Cattleman 10600 U.S. Highway 42 Marysville, Ohio 43040 Phone 614-873-6736 • Fax 614-873-6835 www.ohiocattle.org cattle@ohiocattle.org Editor Elizabeth Harsh Managing Editor Hannah Weymouth

Ohio Cattleman magazine (USPA: 020-968, ISSN: 1543-0588) is published six times per year: Winter issue, mailed in January; Expo preview issue, mailed in February; Spring issue, mailed in April; Summer issue, mailed in July; Early Fall issue, mailed in September; and Late Fall issue, mailed in October; for $15 a year to OCA members only. It is dedicated to reporting facts about Ohio’s cattle including marketing, production and legislative news. All editorial and advertising material is screened to meet rigid standards, but publisher assumes no responsibility for accuracy or validity of claims. All rights reserved. Circulation for the issue is 3,166.

Published at Minster, Ohio 45865 by the Ohio Cattlemen’s Association, 10600 US Highway 42, Marysville, Ohio 43040.

Periodical postage paid at Marysville, Ohio and at additional offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Ohio Cattleman, 10600 US Highway 42, Marysville, Ohio 43040. CHANGING YOUR ADDRESS: Please send old as well as new address to Ohio Cattleman, 10600 US Highway 42, Marysville, Ohio 43040.

Advertising

To schedule advertising write to: Ohio Cattleman, 10600 US Highway 42, Marysville, Ohio 43040, or call 614873-6736. All advertising material for the Expo Issue must be received by Jan. 29, 2025.

Ohio Cattleman Advertising Rates

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Ohio Cattlemen’s Association members will receive a 10% discount when advertising their farm products, such as cattle, hay, corn, etc. ...

Call today to place your ad: 614-873-6736

OCA Staff Elizabeth Harsh Executive Director Ron Windnagel Director of Accounting & Operations Hannah Weymouth Manager of Communications & Managing Editor Kelly Keirn Manager of Consumer Program & Digital Marketing Anna Gest Manager of Nutrition Education Programs Tiffany Arnett Office & Project Manager Morgan Hoppes Manger of Youth Education & Development Programs

OCA NEWS & VIEWS

The Power of a Voice Mark Goecke, OCA President

We all have the little voice in our head that we converse with as we go about our daily routines. When we wake in the morning we ask ourselves, I wonder what the weather will be like today? Or the little voice begins to tell us what our list of accomplishments needs to be for the day. Sometimes we ignore the internal voice, but sometimes it may be the best conversation of the day. When we go out to check the cows and see a newborn calf, instinctively the first voice we hear in our head is “is it a bull or a heifer calf “ and if it is what we were hoping for, we mutter a happy response.

We also have that external voice that our family, friends, pets and livestock all recognize and it is unique to every situation. I’m sure we all can relate to hearing our parents slightly raise their voice while saying our, and for some, our siblings names and the tone of those single words made the hair stand on our backs.

That same external voice also works with pets. My neighbor’s dog can be barking and I’ll say “Maggie, quit barking” and Maggie seems to bark louder and more profusely. But when my neighbor pokes his head out the shop door, all he says is “Maggie” and Maggie comes running toward him and barks no more. The power of a voice.

Another type of voice is what I would refer to as a cumulative voice. This is when many people are gathered in one place and one voice is added to another and another and another and so on. Such would be the case at an Ohio State football game, with over 100 thousand people all saying or screaming the same verse. It can be so overwhelming that the players on the field can not even hear each other speak. That is truly the power of voices.

Other types of voices could be collective voices. A person from one part of the country may be saying the same thing as many other people from many other parts of the country or state. They do not know each other and have never met but they share the same goal or seek the same outcome as many others, sometimes without even saying a word. A great example would be the outcome of our election on Nov 5. Many people from across the country and states made their voices heard by not speaking a word but allowing their actions and expressions to make a statement. Collective voices were heard.

Many times our voices can be relayed by someone else who is speaking for us. OCA is a great example. This past year many of your voices were shared at different levels on several different issues ranging from cattle grading inconsistencies, to the Lucas County lawsuit that refers specifically to livestock manure, funding for increased local meat processing capacity and currently helping to seek relief for those drought stricken areas of Ohio. There are many other fronts that OCA is making your voices heard. I invite all members to attend OCA’s annual meeting on Feb. 1. You can find the schedule in this magazine. It is a great time to converse with others who share the same passion for the beef industry. Who knows, maybe someone’s tiny voice may make a huge impact on the lives of others. Our guest speaker for the day is Colin Woodall, CEO of NCBA. If you want to hear a voice of reason from a gentleman that has been a voice for the beef industry for years, I urge you to attend. His experiences and insight are immense. It is also a good time to come and see the future voices of our industry through our new youth council program and our Foundation scholarship recipients.

As winter begins to set in and the Christmas season is upon us, let us all use our voices to grant good cheer to all and a Merry Christmas!

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Winter 2024 | Ohio Cattleman | 5

OCA Officers

President • Mark Goecke 419-233-3101, goeckefarms@gmail.com Vice President • Lindsey Hall 937-763-8115, lindseycgrimes@gmail.com Treasurer • Linde Sutherly 937-875-0670, linde@lindeslivestockphotos.com Past President • Tom Karr 740-591-9900, tom@karrcontracting.com

HARSH REALITIES

A Memorable Year

Elizabeth Harsh, Ohio Cattleman Editor

Holiday celebrations mark the passing of another year. But 2024 and the difficulties that came with it suggests it may not be so fondly remembered by some. Ohio’s extreme weather events combined with a drought of historic proportions top the list of bad memories from 2024.

Cattle families in the Southern and Southeastern parts of the state are still struggling through the hardships created by the drought. They are worrying about having enough hay to feed cows this winter, finding hay and being able to afford it, hoping their pastures will come back next spring and the list goes on.

OCA Directors Addressing Ohio’s 2024 historic drought conditions has been and conShane Riley Director At-Large tinues to be a top priority for OCA. It is a priority because the ground Washington C.H. • Term expires 2026 in that part of the state is more suitable for beef cattle production and 740-572-2044, shane.rileywch@gmail.com as a result there were many OCA members in these counties who have Joe Foster Director At-Large experienced the most significant financial hits from this year’s drought.

Gallipolis • Term expires 2027 740-379-2580, hjfoster25@yahoo.com OCA has continued to share information on accessing disaster assisFrank Phelps Director At-Large tance programs and management information provided by the state and Belle Center • Term expires 2025 federal entities who assist in these challenging times. The association 937-539-1442, frankph@watchtv.net also joined state officials to travel to some of the most serious areas and Jaymes Maciejewski District 1 meet with cattle families to understand their immediate needs.

New Bavaria • Term expires 2026 309-222-0850, jaymes.maciejewski@gmail.com Last month OCA presented testimony in support of a drought relief Andy Lohr District 2 bill sponsored by Ohio Representatives Don Jones and Jay Edwards. HB Bucyrus • Term expires 2027 683 would appropriate $10 million to the Ohio Department of Agri419-569-3613, andylohr61@gmail.com culture to provide additional support for soil and water districts to assist John Ferguson District 3 livestock producers with forage losses in the hardest hit counties.

Chardon • Term expires 2025 440-478-0782, john@fergusonshowcattle.com OCA also assisted the Ohio Treasurer of State Robert Sprague in the Tyler Humphrey District 4 development and announcement of a special sign-up period for the AgHarrod • Term expires 2026 LINK program to benefit cattle farm families in drought counties.

419-230-3450, humphreyag@gmail.com How to be better prepared for the next drought will be among the Jared Thomas District 5 topics discussed at the OCA Annual Meeting and Awards Banquet on Plain City• Term expires 2027 Feb. 1 in Columbus. Use the QR code in this issue and register to attend.

614-989-1397, jtfarms95@gmail.com The day will start with the roll-out of the new Ohio Beef Youth Council Kirsten Nickles District 6 Wooster • Term expires 2025 (OBYC). The OBYC is a youth education initiative created to serve the 330-345-0477, KNickles@certifiedangusbeef.com families and youth of Ohio’s beef industry and invest in the next generaJoe Grubbs District 7 tion of industry leaders. Funded by the Beef Checkoff and OCA, it will Kensington • Term expires 2026 provide youth with the tools to become more effective industry leaders 330-771-0767, jgrubbs0608@gmail.com and inspire them to continue their engagement in Ohio’s beef industry as Linde Sutherly District 8 adults.

New Carlisle • Term expires 2027 Following the OBYC session, all attendees are invited to a compli937-875-0670, linde@lindeslivestockphotos.com Jim Jepsen District 9 mentary lunch and learn session hosted by the Ohio Beef Council. The Amanda • Term expires 2025 format will include several checkoff information stations for all ages with 614-560-5919, jepsen.drfarms@gmail.com multiple food locations. The program will feature a review of the 2024 Austin Cole District 10 strategic Checkoff investments designed to build beef demand and share West Alexandria • Term expires 2026 details on the many resources available through the Beef Checkoff.

937-620-6584, austin.cole31@yahoo.com Approaching the New Year with an optimistic outlook driven by hope Ryan Bapst District 11 Waverly • Term expires 2027 for continued strength in the cattle markets. Lots of good things ahead 740-835-9789, ryanbapst@gmail.com in 2025 for Ohio’s beef industry but it starts with your valued input and Dale Taylor • District 12 attendance at the annual meeting Feb. 1. Don’t delay. Register today and Bidwell • Term expires 2025 happy holidays to you and your family!

740-709-6461,daletaylorfarming@gmail.com

66 || Ohio Cattleman || Late Fall2025 Issue 2023 6 |Ohio OhioCattleman Cattleman |Winter Early Fall Issue 2024

Bonnie ’s Christmas Wish

es

One of the per ks to this job is being able to side while wor visit chuteking cattle. W e ’ve talked abo grandkids, th ut kids and e Buckeyes an d Boilermaker of dogs both s, all kinds those who wor k and those f paid too much o r looks, who for what bull , wireless loa cables folks d bars (no !), and in recen t years where tags, penicilli to find ear n, and TSU’s.

We’ve dined on pizza, burgers and bbq, doug chocolate, an hnuts and d my personal favorite on a tery day beef cold blusand noodles o ver mashed po Shout out to M tatoes. aplecrest Me ats for that.

This year I hav e put a reques t in to Santa f you. A shiny ne or many of w set of scale s. I hope you’ve Just know if yo been good. ur scales did n’t work that’s a big club.

I’ve learned w here to buy ga s and likewise Thanks to you where not to. my honey do li st still includ clipper blade e s sharpen s and change the oil in my tr If you asked m uck. y opinion and I sent you on a in search of yo goose chase ur next herd b ull, I hope it w as worth it.

If I came to yo ur county fair , all I have to goodness for say is “Thank farm kids.” Th is crazy world w needs you now e live in more than eve r.

As we bid fare well to yet an other year I h share some ti ope you get to me with family a nd friends ov days. A sincer er the holie thank you fo r inviting me to and ranches. your farms You all are th e true leader dustry. Here’s s of our into the next ca lf crop. I’ll se e you soon.

Bonnie Bradfo rd St. Marys, Ohio (4 CUP Certified 19)235-4133 Carcass Ultr asound

THE RUFF REVIEW

Where do we go from here?

Garth Ruff, Beef Cattle Field Specialist, OSU Extension 2024 has been quite the year. We started the year with record high cattle prices, and what appeared to be the most profitable calf crop in several years. Moved into planting season and first cutting hay harvest that went fairly well across most of the state and then it began to get dry. Really dry.

The drought of 2024 will be remembered for a long while as one of the greatest challenges to livestock production in Ohio. Whether it was hay being fed in August or water being hauled daily, the drought has certainly provided some challenges to those in affected areas but also provided some opportunities to make decisions on herd management, forages and on farm water systems going forward.

I am not one to make New Year’s resolutions, but after hauling water at home for the past four months, I am going to commit to not complaining about mud this winter. I have even threatened that the first time that my dad or brother complain about muddy conditions, that I am going to throw a handful at them.

Going into winter the greatest concerns I have heard are potential shortages of feed, pasture/forage availability going into next spring, and questions regarding how much purchased feed will be needed to maintain cows this winter.

While each one of these concerns are specific to an individual operation, there are a few recommendations for all producers that experienced D3 and D4 designated drought conditions.

If you haven’t done so yet, visit your FSA and SWCD offices. They have programs that were rolled out for drought relief. Your local SWCD/NRCS office is the go-to 8 | Ohio Cattleman | Winter 2025

resource if developing livestock water infrastructure is a goal.

Do not abuse pastures. We have had some green-up from recent rainfall.

Don’t confuse green-up of cool season grasses with new pasture growth.

Over grazing newly green pastures at this time of year may have negative impacts on root reserves of energy and re-growth in the spring.

Work with a nutritionist. Once you know the quality and quantity of available forage, a beef cattle nutritionist should be able to provide some feeding options going forward.

One of the other questions that has been asked frequently this fall is, “What does 2025 look like from a price standpoint?”

All indications are that the cattle market should continue to be strong going into next year. Even though feeder cattle futures have been on a roller coaster as of late, the reality is that heifer retention numbers are still low and the Jan.2025 cow herd is expected to be smaller yet than 2024.

I think there is reason to be optimistic as a cattle producer going into the new year. Feed costs are down and cattle prices are still strong.

Inflation of prices at the retail case is still a concern for consumers, however from Aug. 10, 2023 to Aug. 10, 2024 fresh retail beef sales grew 0.6%, from 3.26 to 3.28 billion pounds. With that said, have a safe holiday season and as always: Eat Beef !

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FORAGE FOCUS

Maintaining Forage Crop Stability Amid Instbility Marina Miquilini, Agriculture and Natural Resources Educator, Greene County, OSU Extension When it comes to forage crops, we aim for stable production. But maybe it’s time to start thinking a step ahead.

Stability means keeping things running smoothly with only minor hiccups during typical challenges. Today, however, we’re confronted with much larger challenges, such as extreme weather events, making adapting to these new realities essential.

That’s where resistance and resilience come into play. Basically, the overall stability of forage production depends on two key factors: how much a disturbance affects it (resistance) and how quickly it bounces back (resilience).

With that in mind, we’ll focus on understanding ways to boost resistance and resilience in forage crops, so we can keep production stable even during extreme events. Key approaches include: 1) increasing plant diversity, 2) optimizing harvest and grazing management, and 3) improving soil fertility and weed control.

First, research shows that having more plant diversity helps make forage systems more stable. Simply put, diverse plant communities are better at handling disturbances because there’s a higher chance that some species can tolerate whatever stress is happening.

As the less-tolerant species are affected, the more stress-tolerant ones step in, helping keep things stable.

Diversity is often measured by the number of plant species in a field, but the variety of plant functional types (like nitrogen fixers) is just as important.

In forage-livestock systems, the most important plant groups are annual and perennial cool-season grasses (C3), warm-season grasses (C4), broadleaf forbs, and legumes.

Having a mix of plant types can not only boost resistance and resilience in forage crops but also maximize forage production and its availability throughout the year. For example, C4 10 | Ohio Cattleman | Winter 2025

grasses grow better in hot, dry summer months compared to C3 grasses, which are more productive during the cooler spring and fall weather.

While high plant diversity can make forage fields more stable, it’s tough to figure out how much is enough and how to make it work on your farm. Plus, adding new forage species can be tricky since fields often end up dominated by just one or two species over time.

There are plenty of plant groups and species to choose from, but you don’t need to tackle everything at once.

Start small and focus on what works best for your farm. Maybe trying C4 grasses in a smaller less-productive field is a good first step. Or, if C4 grasses don’t fit your current needs, planting annual C3 grasses in one field could also help extend your grazing season. Alternatively, you might want to concentrate on managing a few key species, like grass and legume mixes.

There are many approaches to enhance plant diversity, and it’s not necessary to implement all changes in a single field simultaneously for them to be effective.

You can rotate different species across fields or introduce them at staggered intervals. The best approach is to start with what aligns most closely with your farm’s current situation. Even small changes matter and can make a meaningful impact.

Second, how often and how much your forage is harvested or grazed, the type and age of the plant removed, and any stress or competition it faces before, during, or after grazing all impact how productive it will be afterward.

Cutting grass lower, whether by harvest or grazing, might give you a bigger yield upfront. But over time, this can lead to less ground cover and more weeds. At the same time, if you go easier on defoliation, the plants recover their leaf area faster, as photosynthesis takes over as the main energy source.

Research also shows that rotational stocking leads to more forage growth because it helps spread livestock more evenly, increasing density and reducing uneven grazing. This improves how efficiently forage is harvested.

Ultimately, the harvest or grazing method you choose might not matter much for plant resilience as long as you maintain the right stubble height for the species to thrive.

Management isn’t one-size-fits-all because forage and animal responses vary based on the species and how they’re managed. You can’t simply use the same approach for every farm. That’s why it’s crucial to create a long-term, customized plan that fits your specific grazing system.

Finally, ensuring proper soil pH, nutrient levels, and organic matter is essential for building a resistant and resilient forage-livestock system. Weeds pose a significant challenge to this resilience and managing them requires ongoing effort. Research indicates that maintaining optimal soil fertility is one of the most effective ways to reduce weed pressure in grazing systems. When soil fertility is high, perennial grasses thrive, leading to healthier grasslands where weeds are naturally suppressed.

Adapting your system to be resistant and resilient is crucial for preparing for extreme events while also boosting overall productivity. OSU Extension offers resources to support you. For tips and strategies, subscribe to news from the OSU Beef Team at beef.osu.edu.

Your local OSU Extension Office is also ready to assist.

Challenges like this year’s drought can be stressful, no matter how prepared we are. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance.

For ongoing updates and agricultural resources, visit go.osu.edu/ohiodrought.

For additional information on drought preparedness and impacts, explore climate.osu.edu/drought.

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FOR THE 2025 OHIO BEEF EXPO

The Ohio Beef Expo is Ohio’s largest beef cattle event with an annual attendance of over 30,000 people and over 1,500 head of cattle exhibited. As all aspects of the Expo continue to grow, the Ohio Cattlemen’s Association (OCA) and Ohio Beef Expo leadership are announcing the following changes for 2025.

The OCA Buckeye Breeders Series (BBS) is Ohio’s bred, born and raised program for registered steers and heifers. For 2025 the Ohio Beef Expo Junior Show has planned a second BBS only ring for eligible cattle during the Expo’s junior show. Steers will continue showing on Saturday March 15. Once the full steer show ring is completed, eligible BBS steers will move into the BBS only steer ring to compete. The same will take place with the heifer show on Sunday, March 16 to close out the Expo. Top Five overall steers and heifers will be placed each day and awarded premiums. Sponsors are also being solicited for additional show awards.

The Ohio Beef Expo Judging Contest will move to Thursday, March 13 to improve the experience for the over 600 youth who participate in this educational program. It will feature three rounds allowing better viewing of the cattle and a dedicated awards program.

Tuberculosis (TB) requirements for sale cattle have changed for 2025. No TB test is required if cattle originate from a TB free state. Cattle coming from the four counties of Michigan (Alcona, Alpena, Montmorency, and Oscoda) will need a TB test.

Contact the Ohio Department of Agriculture 614- 728-6220 for additional direction.

Junior Show

SECOND BBS ONLY RING with selection of Top 5 Overall BBS Steers and Heifers

Youth Activities

JUDGING CONTEST THURSDAY, MARCH 13 with its own awards ceremony

Sale Cattle

NO TB TESTS REQUIRED for most sale cattle consignments

2025

SCHEDULE March 13-16, 2025 | Ohio Expo Center

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 12

**No cattle are permitted on the fairgrounds before 7:30 a.m.** Noon - 5 p.m.

Trade Show Large Equipment Move-in **Arrival deadline for all breeds selling Friday, March 14

THURSDAY, MARCH 13 8 a.m. - 9 a.m.

8 a.m. - 12 p.m.

9 a.m.

10 a.m.

10 a.m.

12 p.m. - 3 p.m.

2:30 p.m.

3 - 6 p.m.

4 - 8 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

Judging Contest Check-in & Packet Pick-up, Coliseum Trade Show set up for large indoor equipment Breeds Check-in Begins, Breeds Building Judging Contest Begins, Coliseum Arrival deadline for all breeds selling Saturday, March 15 and others Trade Show set-up outdoor & small indoor displays Judging Contest Awards, Coliseum Trade Show Open, Voinovich Building Junior Show Check-in, Gilligan Complex The Social, Hilton Columbus/Polaris

FRIDAY, MARCH 14

8 a.m. - 11 a.m. Junior Show Check-in, Gilligan Complex 8:30 a.m. - 6 p.m. Trade Show Open, Voinovich Building 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. Cattlemen’s Learning Center Sessions, Voinovich Building 9:30 a.m.

Youth Beef Quality Assurance, Coliseum 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Genetic Pathway Open, Breeds Building 10 a.m.

Mini Hereford Show, Cooper Arena 11 a.m.

Junior Showmanship, Coliseum - 2 rings 12 p.m.

Online Feeder Cattle Sale, Voinovich Building 12:30 p.m.

Hereford Show, Cooper Arena Shorthorn Parade, Cooper Arena 1 p.m.

Murray Grey Show, Breeds Building 2 p.m.

Angus Parade, Cooper Arena Limousin Sale, Voinovich Building 3 p.m.

Aberdeen Angus Sale, Voinovich Building 4 p.m.

Red Angus Sale, Voinovich Building 4: 30 - 5:30 p.m. Cowboy Happy Hour, Voinovich Building 5 p.m.

Shorthorn Sale, Voinovich Building 5 - 6 p.m.

Junior Show Check-in, Gilligan Complex

SATURDAY, MARCH 15

8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Junior Market Animal & BBS Show, Coliseum 8:30 a.m. - 6 p.m. Trade Show Open, Voinovich Building 9 a.m.

Mini Hereford Sale, Voinovich Building 10 a.m.

Hereford Sale, Voinoivch Building 10 - 11 a.m.

Junior Show Check-in, (Heifers Only), Gilligan Complex 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Genetic Pathway Open, Breeds Building 11:30 a.m.

Simmental Sale, Voinovich Building 2 p.m.

Angus Sale, Voinovich Building 3:30 p.m.

Maine Anjou Sale, Voinovich Building 4 - 5 p.m.

Cowboy Happy Hour, Voinovich Building 6 p.m. deadline Junior Show Check-in for Expo Sale Heifers,Gilligan Complex

SUNDAY, MARCH 16

8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Junior Heifer Show & BBS Show, Coliseum 8:30 a.m. - 2 p.m. Trade Show Open, Voinovich Building 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. Cattlemen’s Learning Center Sessions, Voinovich Building

(614) 873-6736

cattle@ohiocattle.org

www.ohiobeefexpo.com

DRIVING THE DEMAND FOR BEEF

Investing in Beef Promotion, Nutrition, Education & Research A RECORD-BREAKING BURGER BATTLE

On behalf of the Beef Checkoff, the Ohio Beef Council (OBC) was proud to partner with the Hospitality Institute of Ohio to sponsor the Annual ProStart Burger Battle. The event was held on Nov. 13 at the Delaware County Fairgrounds, Delaware, Ohio.

The competition brought together six schools within the ProStart program with a recordbreaking 25 entries. Schools included Tolles Career & Technical Academy, VanguardSentinel Career & Technology Center (VSCTC), Jackson High School, Penta Career Center, South-Western Career Academy (SWCA), and Wayne County Schools Career Center.

After many runner-up finishes in the last 5-7 years, the team of Alexis Lopez and Araceli Rodriguez Ramirez helped put the South-Western Career Academy over the top.

Their award-winning and Scooby Doo inspired “Binge Burger” was comprised of a boldly seasoned 1/3 pound beef patty covered in hot honey, bacon, Seattle cream cheese sauce made from scratch with kettle chips, an olive, and jalapeño bacon flag presented on a pretzel bun.

GRAND OPENING WITH BEEF

OBC was pleased to partner with Kroger for the Nov. 8 grand opening celebration of the largest Kroger store in Ohio and located near the OBC office. As part of the festivities, staff grilled and offered flank steak samples to customers throughout the event, showcasing the exceptional flavor and versatility of beef.

This exciting collaboration marks an important milestone in OBC’s ongoing efforts to reach new customers and build partnerships with Ohio’s retailers.

sustainable food system, how beef is raised and grown in Ohio, and its nutritional benefits. OSU’s Meat Science Club President Anna Mulrooney and Treasure Nathan Boerger were present to connect with their peers and answer questions.

SOCIAL PRESENCE CONTINUES TO GROW

HUNGRY STUDENTS ENJOY STEAK NIGHT

In partnership with Ohio State University’s (OSU) dining services, OBC sponsored Steak Night to kick off the week of Thanksgiving break. OSU students attended the occasion at Traditions at Scott and ordered through the Grubhub app. Over 700 grilled-to-order strip steaks were served. OBC staff and dietetic intern Meredith Kiss shared over 800 Korean BBQ Beef Short Rib samples as the students entered the dining hall.

In addition to the beef samples, students learned about OBC’s commitment to beef in a

OBC is always looking for new ways to connect with consumers and showcase the quality and passion behind beef. OBC’s TikTok presence has been growing, thanks to the creation of 90-second videos. These short, dynamic videos allow OBC to share everything from simple weeknight dinners to show-stopping meals, cooking tips, and engaging moments that reflect the heart and soul of Ohio’s beef farmers.

Follow us at @ohio_beef_council for all the latest updates, behindthe-scenes content, and more.

The Ohio Beef Council and the Cattlemen’s Beef Promotion and Research Board are responsible for developing programs that increase the demand for beef. For more information, contact the Ohio Beef Council at 614-873-6736, beef@ohiobeef.org or visit www.ohiobeef.org.

Ohio Beef Council Operating Committee: Erin Stickel, Bowling Green, Chairman • Becky Reed, Springfield, Vice Chairman • Stan Smith, Canal Winchester, Treasurer • Mandy Atterholt, Loudonville Mark Goecke, Spencerville • Lou Ellen Harr, Jeromesville • Bret Layman, Johnstown•Em Mowrer, Barnesville • Jake Osborn, Lynchburg • Allan Robison, Cable Ben Seibert, St. Marys • Bill Sexten, Washington CH • Susie Turner, Somerset• Kris Vincent, East Canton• Barb Watts, Alexandria • Elizabeth Harsh, Executive Director 14 | Ohio Cattleman | Winter 2025

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Contact Regional Manager Alex Tolbert: Cell: 706-338-8733 atolbert@angus.org

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PRESENTS

BEST Character Trait Awards

respect determination attitude development

Weaver Leather Livestock & the Ohio Cattlemen’s Association are dedicated to not only the success of young showmen, but cultivating an atmosphere of character.

Who will you nominate this BEST season?

15 | Ohio Cattleman | Winter 2025

The Ohio Cattlemen’s Association (OCA) Allied Industry Council is a business partnership that supports educational efforts and leadership opportunities for cattlemen to advance Ohio’s beef cattle industry.

Ag Credit

David White 419-435-7758 www.agcredit.net

Ag-Pro

D&J Sales and Services

Patrick Barker 513-315-3833 www.kentfeeds.com

DHI Cooperative, Inc.

M.H. Eby Inc./Eby Trailers

Ben Butcher 740-653-6951 www.agprocompanies.com

Brian Winters 1-800-DHI-COOP Tim Pye 912-682-9798 www.dhicoop.com

Alligare, LLC

Elanco Animal Health

Jeff Clark 304-992-6195 Brett Jones 334-748-0048 www.alligare.com

Baird Private Wealth Management

Patrick Saunders 740-446-2000 www.patricksaundersfc.com

Bane-Welker Equipment

Makayla Eggleton 937-206-1653 www.bane-welker.com

Boehringer-Ingelheim

Brent Tolle 502-905-7831 www.boehringer-ingelheim.com

Britespan Building Systems Lawrence Cole 419-540-3557 www.britespanbuildings.com

Burkmann Nutrition

Brent Williams 859-236-0400 Kasey Gordon 859-236-0400 Tom Hastings 859-236-0400 Austin Sexten 859-236-0400 Dr. David Williams 859-236-0400 www.burkmann.com Cargill Animal Nutrition Elaine Riechard 937-770-2820 Anna Taylor 701-220-9387 www.cargill.com | www.sunglo.com

Centerra Co-op

Don Daniels 440-476-6125 www.centerracoop.com

Central Life Sciences

Kenley Rogers 330-465-9225 www.centrallifesciences.com

CLA-CliftonLarsonAllen LLP Bill Scott 419-213-5265 Travis Reamsnyder www.claconnect.com

Cornerstone Veterinary Services, LLC Amgad Riad 567-510-4340 www.mycsvets.com

Corteva AgriScience

Rachel Walker 270-995-9541 www.rangeandpasture.com 16 | Ohio Cattleman | Winter 2025

Kent Nutrition Group

Jon Jones 740-391-1246 www.djsalesandservice.com

Jon Sweeney 515-249-2926 Jim Stefanak 330-298-8113 www.elanco.com

Farm Credit Mid-America

Scott LaGuire 419-733-9796 David Sanders 740-335-3306 Evan Hahn 567-215-7367 www.e-farmcredit.com

Farm Science Review

Nick Zachrich 614-514-9577 Ali Friesen 614-292-4278 www.fsr.osu.edu

Four Star Veterinary Service

Taylor Engle 419-305-7494 Bryant Chapman 419-953-4523 Trey Gellert 419-953-4523 www.4starvets.com

Heartland Bank

Matthew Bucklew 614-475-7024 www.heartland.bank

Heartland Feed Services

Kirk Swensen 614-879-6901 Steve Rittenhouse 614-879-6901 J.R. Kaverman 740-956-0623 www.mheby.com McGuire Wholesale Virgil Jennings 800-860-3744 Dave Bishop 800-860-3744 Keith Montgomery 800-860-3744 Duane Wilson 800-860-3744 Tessa Briggs 800-860-3744 www.mcguirewholesale.com

Merck Animal Health

Seth Clark 330-465-2728 Dave McElhaney 724-494-6199 www.merck-animal-health-usa.com

Murphy Tractor

Eric Bischoff 614-876-1141 Brent Chauvin 937-898-4198 www.murphytractor.com

Nationwide Insurance

Shawnda Vega 614-329-4500 www.farmagentfinder.com

Neogen

Calvin Bontekoe 810-730-6131 www.neogen.com

Celina 419-586-7443 Minster 419-628-2367 St Anthony 419-942-1148 St Henry 419-678-2348 www.heartlandfeedsrevices.com

Nexus Marketing

Heritage Cooperative

Ohio Ag Equipment/ Ohio CAT

Dale Stryffeler 330-556-8465 Derek Fauber 614-873-6736 David Monnin 914-873-6736 www.heritagecooperative.com

Highland Livestock Supply Ltd.

Holly Fleck 419-953-2295 Pat Lampert 419-953-0546 Chad Leffel 567-204-7846 www.nexusmarketing.com

Linda Meier 614-851-3629 Brian Speelman 614-851-3629 www.ohiocat.com

Curt & Allison Hively 330-457-2033 www.highlandlivestocksupply.com

Ohio Angus Association

Hubbard Feeds

Ohio Penal Industry

Jordan Gilbert 937-670-4231 www.hubbardfeeds.com

ICAP Crop Insurance

Joanie Grimes 937-763-1198 Lindsey Hall 937-763-8115 www.icapcrop.com

Kalmbach Feeds

Jeff Neal 419-356-0128 Kyle Nickles 419-294-3838 Cheryl Miller 419-294-3838 www.kalmbachfeeds.com

Jacy Bapst 740-648-6531 www.ohioangus.org

William Bierbaugh 614-214-8916, Robert Caplinger 614-531-8291 www.opi.ohio.gov

OSU Large Animal Services Eric Gordon 937-642-2936 Kevin Jacque 937-642-2936 Shaw Perrin 937-642-2936 Kristin Smith 937-642-2936 Alissa Wilhelm 937-642-2936 www.vmc.vet.osu.edu

PBS Animal Health

Hanna Green 330-834-3000 Kevin Warrene 800-321-0235 www.pbsanimalhealth.com

Pik Rite, Inc.

Paul Novack 570-523-8174 www.pikrite.com

Priefert Ranch Equipment

Steve Campbell 903-434-8973 Nate Aguredakes 330-868-1181 www.priefert.com

Purina Animal Nutrition

Cy Prettyman 470-360-5538 Kira Morgan 812-480-2715 Doug Phillips Kylie Ewing Crisler www.purinamills.com Quality Liquid Feeds Joe Foster 614-560-5228 www.qlf.com

Reed & Baur Insurance Agency Jim & Paula Rogers 866-593-6688 www.reedbaurinsurance.com

Richfield Industries

Tom Campbell 810-516-7779 www.richind.com

Rodoc Leasing & Sales

Roger Miller 419-692-5881 Braytan Kruse 419-394-4408 Tony Rieman 419-348-0644 Abby Snyder 937-869-9712 Bryan Hoersten 937-503-7979 www.rodoc.com

Sakura Wagyu Farms

Tori Grafton 614-809-1089 Chad Adams 402-533-2030 Lawrence Adams 402-440-0924 Francis Pang 330-323-0960 David Sahr 740-817-3261 www.sakurawagyufarms.com

Saltwell Western Store

Sally Puzacke 330-343-0388 www.saltwellwesternstore.com

Sedgwick

Tony Sharrock 614-376-5450 David Deyo 614-376-5401 www.sedgwickcms.com

Select Sires Member Cooperative

Rachael Billups 937-527-5230 Joanna Frankenberg 614-878-5333 Kevin Hinds 614-878-5333 Jim Ray 614-205-7176 Julie Ziegler 614-878-5333 www.cobaselect.com

ST Genetics

Aaron Arnett 614-947-9931 www.stgen.com

Straight A’s

Nikki McCarty 330-868-1182 Nate Aguredakes 330-868-1182 www.ranchcity.com

The Wendt Group

Kevin Wendt 614-626-7653 Dale Evans 260-894-0458 Nick Cummings 740-572-0756 Tyler Wilt 740-572-1249 Wesley Black 740-572-1670 W.J. Fannin 614-395-9802 www.thewendtgroup.com

TransOva Genetics

Emily Warnimont 712-722-3586 Lacey Murray 712-722-3586 Amber Clark 712-722-3586 Sabrina Clark 712-722-3586 www.transova.com

Umbarger Show Feeds

WM. E Fagaly & Son Inc.

United Producers, Inc.

Zimmer Tractor

Jackson Umbarger 317-422-5195 Eric King 419-889-744 www.umbargerandsons.com Jake Osborn Sam Roberts 614-890-6666 Hannah Carter 614-433-2190 1-800-456-3276 www.uproducers.com

Vytelle

Ryan Gries 513-678-1042 Chris McConnell 513-667-7444 www.fagalyfeed.com Jason Beckner 513-615-3238 www.zimmertractor.com

Zoetis Animal Health

Laura Homan 320-293-2184 www.zoetisus.com

Zach Bartenslager 304-661-6331 Kara Schmidt 443-974-2067 Rodney Schoenbine 330-4649793 www.vytelle.com

Weaver Leather Livestock Angela Kain 330-674-1782 Lisa Shearer 330-674-1782 www.weaverleather.com

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Welcome

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Red Angus Heifers, Bred Heifers & Bulls For Sale 12-18 month & 2 year-old bulls for sale

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34740 State Route 7 Pomeroy, Ohio 45769 740.591.9900 (cell) 740.985.3444 (office) tom@karrcontracting.com Winter 2025 | Ohio Cattleman | 17

Livin’ the

life

Ohio Cattlemen’s Association kicks off 2024-25 BEST Season The Ohio Cattlemen’s Association (OCA) Beef Exhibitor Show Total (BEST) program will kick off the 2024-2025 season with this year’s theme “Livin the BEST life,” alongside sponsoring partners: Ag-Pro, Bob Evans Farms, Diamond T Land & Cattle Co., M.H. EBY Inc., Performance Training Solutions, Ricer Equipment, Robbins Show Steers, Six R Farms, Shepard Cattle Company, Weaver Leather Livestock, The Folks Printing, Dickson Cattle Co., Jones Show Cattle and RD Jones Excavating.

BEST is a youth development program of the OCA that recognizes young beef exhibitors through a series of sanctioned shows. Youth who participate earn points for their placing at each show. Points are tabulated for cattle, showmanship, registered bredand-owned animals, Buckeye Breeder Series (Ohio’s bred, born and raised program), Stockmanship educational contests and BEST participants in a separate Novice division. The BEST program also includes leadership opportunities, scholarships and community service. Juniors earn points for participation in each

sanctioned show and are recognized for their accomplishments at an endof-season awards banquet.

BEST Program Requirements Participants 8 years old as of Jan. 1, 2025, but not older than 21 years as of age as of Jan. 1, 2025, are eligible to accumulate OCA BEST points.

Participants must be Ohio residents with the exception of Buckeye Breeders Series (BBS) eligible cattle.

Those exhibiting BBS cattle are eligible to accumulate BEST points regardless of the state of residency.

Participants or the participant’s family must be current members of OCA. The OCA membership must be in the name of the BEST participant’s immediate family. OCA family memberships are $75 and will operate on a 12-month basis.

Exhibitors showing cattle at a BESTsanctioned show, but not participating in the BEST program, must also have an OCA membership.

A BEST nomination fee is also required for each animal a junior enters in

the BEST program. The one-time $60 nomination fee allows the animal to accumulate points at any OCA BESTsanctioned show. The nomination fee must be paid before the start of the show where the exhibitor plans to accumulate points.

Participants must be Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) certified to participate in the BEST program. BQA certification is available through inperson training at BEST shows, bqa.org, or yqca.org.

ALL cattle showing at a BEST-sanctioned show in-state and out-of-state MUST be tagged with an electronic identification (EID) ear tag before arriving at their first BEST show.

ALL cattle must have proof of a negative BVD test by their second BEST show.

Buckeye Breeders Series (BBS) BBS is Ohio’s premier bred, born, and raised division of BEST that rewards both exhibitors and breeders for their participation with registered

steers and heifers from an Ohio seedstock breeder. This division will have a separate set of points to be accumulated for participants throughout the season. Out-of-state participants will be eligible for BEST only if they exhibit a BBS-eligible animal.

All exhibitors who plan on showing in the BBS program must complete the nomination form (available at www. ohiocattle.org) in order to receive points at their first show. BBS breeders must also be current OCA members for the cattle they bred to be eligible for points in the BEST program.

At the end of the season, BBS participants will be entered in a drawing for a year’s use of a livestock trailer, donated by M.H. EBY. BBS breeders will be entered in a drawing for a year’s use of a John Deere Gator, donated by Ag-Pro.

2024-25 BEST Season Schedule Saddle & Sirloin Spectacular Dec. 27 - 29 | Circleville Scarlet & Gray Midwest Showdown Jan. 3 - 5 | Columbus Clark County Cattle Battle Jan. 24 - 26 | Springfield DTS Cupid Classic Feb. 7 - 9 | Circleville

Stockmanship Youth Development, Education, and Academics Outside of the Ring The BEST program includes the Stockmanship Division to allow participants with or without cattle to showcase their talent outside of the show ring by expanding their knowledge of cattle and the industry.

Holmes County Preview Feb. 28 - March 2 | Millersburg

The Stockmanship contest schedule and more details can be found at www. ohiocattle.org

Scholarship/Contest Deadline April 1

Getting Started Participants will create their own unique account to make nominations and show entries for the BEST program at best.ohiocattle.org.

For more information about the BEST program, visit ohiocattle.org/BEST, join the OCA BEST Program Facebook group, or contact the office at 614-873-6736.

Ohio Beef Expo Mach 13 - 16 | Columbus

BEST Banquet May 3

For updates on the 2024-25 BEST season visit www.ohiocattle.org or the OCA BEST Program Facebook page.

OCA NEWS

OCA ELECTS NEW MEMBERS TO BOARD OF DIRECTORS The Ohio Cattlemen’s Association (OCA) recently held elections for directors in districts 2, 5, 8, 11 and one at-large position.

Elected Directors The newly elected board members are Jared Thomas, district 5 and Joe Foster, at-large.

Jared Thomas farms in Plain City.

He is the 6th generation of the family operation that raises corn, soybeans, hay, wheat and cattle along with his dad and brother. The farm has a 150 head cattle finishing feedlot.

Thomas graduated from The Ohio State University in 2018 with a Bachelor of Science degree from the College of Food, Agricultural & Environmental Sciences where he majored in agronomy. He and his wife, Sarah, have a one-year-old son Franklin.

Thomas is involved in many agricultural organizations, including OCA and the Ohio Farm Bureau.

He participated in the OCA Young Cattlemen’s Conference leadership program in 2018.

Joe Foster of Gallipolis manages his family’s diversified farm, Foster Farms, in Gallia County. It includes cow/calf, backgrounder and stocker operations, along with a commercial sheep operation, row crops and hay.

Since 2012 he has also run a research data collection service that provides the facilities, labor and management for a neonatal calf research program for various private animal nutrition entities.

Foster has been involved in OCA for nearly 40 years. He served as OCA 20 | Ohio Cattleman | Winter 2025

president in 2016 and 2017. He was named OCA’s Young Cattleman of the Year in 1995 and received the Beef Industry Excellence award in 2006.

He was appointed by the Ohio Department of Agriculture to the Ohio Beef Council where he served two terms and as chairman of the Operating Committee. Foster is currently representing Ohio in his third term as a member of the Cattlemen’s Beef Board, the body that oversees the national Beef Checkoff program.

Foster graduated from The Ohio State University where he majored in Animal Science. Active in his community, he has served on many boards and held multiple leadership positions. Foster is a former Gallia County Commissioner and serves as the fiscal officer for his local township.

He, and his wife, Melinda, have a growing family with three adult daughters, Megan, Mandy, and Morgan.

The directors elected to serve another term are: District 2 - Andy Lohr, Crawford County District 8 - Linde Sutherly, Clark County District 11 - Ryan Bapst, Pike County The board will elect officers and the executive committee at the next meeting.

Retiring Directors OCA would like to extend a thank you to the retiring directors for their many years of service and dedication to not only the association, but the industry as a whole. Thank you to: Jim Rogers, Hocking County, at-large director and Jason Dagger, Champaign County, district 5 Director.

Jared Thomas, District 5 Director

Joe Foster, At-Large Director

INVITING ALL INDUSTRY YOUTH to attend the launch of the

Ohio Beef Youth Council Saturday, Feb. 1, 2025 held in conjuction with the OCA Annual Meeting Hilton Polaris 8700 Lyra Drive Columbus, Ohio 43240

OBYC is a youth education initiative serving the youth of Ohio and investing in the next generation of beef industry leaders. Funded by the Beef Checkoff and OCA, it provides youth with the tools to become more effective industry leaders and inspires them to continue their engagement in Ohio’s beef industry as adults.

OBYC SCHEDULE

Open to all youth ages 8-21, parents welcome 9 a.m. - Registration Opens 10 a.m. - Ohio Beef Youth Council Launch & Agriculture Professionals Panel 12 p.m. - Complimentary Luncheon hosted by the Ohio Beef Council OBYC leadership team will share details on new programs available through the council.

OBYC MISSION The Ohio Beef Youth Council connects Ohio’s youth with opportunities to explore and develop their passion for the beef cattle industry. The council involves youth of all ages and backgrounds representing every industry segment and level of experience. Participants grow leadership skills to enhance their education, build career pathways, and influence their communities.

NO COST TO ATTEND

*Registration is manadatory

Winter 2025 | Ohio Cattleman | 21 For more information about the Ohio Beef Youth Council visit www.ohiocattle.org

SCAN TO ATTEND & BOOK YOUR ROOM

FEBRUARY 1 - MORNING 9:00 a.m.

REGISTRATION OPENS

10:00 a.m.

OHIO BEEF YOUTH COUNCIL LAUNCH & AG PROFESSIONALS PANEL

Hilton Polaris 8700 Lyra Drive Columbus, Ohio 43240

Open to all beef industry youth ages 8-21 & parents. Attendees are invited to a complimentary luncheon following the program. Must register for luncheon to attend.

OBYC officers will introduce the vision and initial programs for the new Ohio Beef Youth Council. The council is a youth education initiative created to better serve the families and youth of Ohio’s beef industry and invest in the next generation of industry leaders. This initiative, funded by the Beef Checkoff and OCA, will provide youth with the tools to become more effective industry leaders and inspire them to continue their engagement in Ohio’s beef industry as adults.

OBYC OFFICERS

TATUMN POFF

Chair

CHEYENNE MYERS

Vice Chair

TAYLOR POFF

Public Relations Director

NOAH LANG

Leadership & Development Director

Attendees will hear from a panel of industry leaders about how programs like the youth council benefited them in their education and career goals.

PANELISTS

ZANE GROSS III, ASHLAND COUNTY

Operations Manager & Sales Lead for E. R. Boliantz Packing Co. Ohio State University graduate and meat science expert working with and advising area cattle feeders. Recipient of the OCA Young Cattleman of the Year award. Family owns Buckeye Creek Angus, a growing seedstock operation.

LINDSEY HALL, HIGHLAND COUNTY

Employed as an agent for ICAP Crop Insurance, she and her family own and operate Maplecrest Farms. As a graduate of Ohio State & Kansas State Universities and current OCA vice president, Lindsey and her family are the next generation of Maplecrest’s elite seedstock operation and she is the Manager of Product Procurement for their newest business venture, Maplecrest Meats & More.

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT THE OCA OFFICE CATTLE@OHIOCATTLE.ORG

(614) 873-6736

22 | Ohio Cattleman | Winter 2025

KIRSTEN NICKLES, ASHLAND COUNTY

Sustainability & Animal Care Scientist for Certified Angus Beef working to build brand integrity with their marketing partners and maintain consumer trust in the CAB brand. Ohio State University Ph.D. graduate and current member of the OCA board of directors. She is involved with her family’s cattle and crop farm.

GARRETT STANFIELD, ADAMS COUNTY

Regional Business Manager for Trans Ova Genetics. Co-advisor for the Ohio Junior Simmental Association. Ohio State University graduate and former participant in the OCA Young Cattlemen’s Conference leadership program. Herdsman and manager for Stanfield Farms a Simmental seedstock producer.

FEBRUARY 1 - AFTERNOON LUNCHEON HOSTED BY OHIO BEEF COUNCIL

The Ohio Beef Council Operating Committee and staff will present a review of 2024 strategic Checkoff investments designed to build beef demand.

1:00 p.m.

OHIO CATTLEWOMEN ANNUAL MEETING

1:30 p.m.

OCA ANNUAL MEETING

Ohio CattleWomen will gather to to discuss programs and priorities for the upcoming year and elect their new 2025 officer class.

Take an active role in OCA at the Annual Meeting where members will set policy for 2025, hear program updates, and listen to featured speaker, National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) CEO, Colin Woodall.

FEATURED SPEAKER

COLIN WOODALL, NCBA CEO

Colin Woodall is the Chief Executive Officer of the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association and leads the country’s oldest and largest national trade association for cattle producers in being the trusted voice and definitive leader of the beef industry.

He has been with NCBA since 2004 and served as the association’s Chief Lobbyist in Washington, D.C., for a decade

3:30 p.m.

OHIO CATTLEMEN’S FOUNDATION ANNUAL MEETING

Following the annual meeting, the Foundation and the Ohio CattleWomen will present scholarships to the 2024 recipients.

5:00 p.m.

CATTLEMEN’S HOSPITALITY HOUR

6:00 p.m. OCA AWARDS BANQUET

The evening will include the celebration of seven distinguished award winners for the year in the categories of Young Cattleman of the Year, Industry Service Award, Industry Excellence Award, Seedstock Producer of the Year, Commercial Producer of the Year, Environmental Stewardship Award and the Outstanding County Award. A plated dinner will be served as attendees enjoy viewing the release of the award videos.

8:30 p.m.

CATTLEMEN’S SOCIAL & PAC AUCTION

Stick around following the banquet to enjoy refreshments and an evening with fellow cattlemen. Don’t miss your opportunity to take home some great items and experiences with the live auctions benefiting OCA PAC and its political work on behalf of Ohio’s beef industry.

ANNUAL MEETING SCHEDULE

12:00 p.m.

Winter 2025 | Ohio Cattleman | 23

Industry Excellence Award - Dr. Aaron Arnett BENEFITTING THE CATTLE & AG INDUSTRIES IN WAYS HE NEVER DREAMED WERE POSSIBLE Story & Photos by Amy Beth Graves

For Aaron Arnett, opportunity came knocking in the form of an internship at Select Sires. At the time, he was on the livestock judging team at Ohio State University, and every year the judging coach recommended a student in the beef program for an internship with the company that specializes in bovine genetics and reproductive services. Aaron was that student one year, and the internship worked out so well that he returned the next summer.

“I had such a good experience that they invited me back and I did the internship for two summers and it was fantastic,” he said. Little did he know at the time that years later he would be invited back to the Plain City company immediately after receiving his PhD. “Everything came full circle. I never would have guessed that as an undergrad,” he said.

After getting an animal science degree at Ohio State, Aaron moved on to the University of Kentucky for his master’s degree in reproductive physiology. He was coach of the college’s livestock judging team and enjoyed teaching the students.

“I probably learned more than my students did at that time,” he said.

24 | Ohio Cattleman | Winter 2025

“The judging team experience was just an awesome opportunity to grow and learn and help influence the lives of other young people coming through college.”

As he says, Aaron was “riding a wave” with his professional development and decided to pursue a doctorate degree at Kansas State University with the intention of teaching. But he switched things up a bit and decided to focus on meat science, inspired by what he’d seen as a livestock judge.

“I took a risk in going in a different direction with my PhD and not getting it in reproductive physiology.

There are so many unique things on the meat science side, and I was really fascinated by the body composition of what’s underneath that hide of a beef steer,” he said. “I knew there were a lot of opportunities in the meat sciences and well paying jobs in the industry.”

Just before he graduated from Kansas State in December 2007, Aaron received a call from genetic breeding pioneer Roy Allen Wallace. He was looking to retire after working 40 years for Select Sires and was looking for his replacement. Aaron accepted the position of vice president of beef genetics and while he was in the process of moving back to Ohio, Roy

unexpectedly died of a heart attack.

“He was gone and I never got to work with him again. It was an interesting baptism by fire to be kind of thrown in the shadow of a living legend,” Aaron said of Roy who later was inducted into the Ohio Agricultural Council Hall of Fame.

For almost eight years, Aaron led a global beef team that marketed the beef industry’s best genetics in 70 countries and doubled beef semen sales. He also was instrumental in helping develop new industry partnerships with Certified Angus Beef and Top Dollar Angus. Then he was offered a position at a competitor that was too good to pass up. In 2015 he joined Sexing Technologies, now known as ST Genetics, as director of beef genetics.

“The company approached me saying they wanted to start a beef program and asking if I was interested in helping lead it. I thought it was a really progressive company and an awesome opportunity,” he said. “One of the things I’m most proud of that we’ve been working on is fertility and longevity traits in beef cattle. We’re using DNA technology to identify more fertile cattle that have the propensity to stay in the herd longer (resulting in)

a longer, more profitable and lasting impact for a farmer or rancher.

And that’s really been exciting.”

Aaron paused briefly as he reflected on his accomplishments at the two companies, which have signed letters of intention to merge and form a new company.

“I’m just a kid from Darke County who grew up on a small family farm and had a commercial cow herd and look at where I am today,” he said.

It’s a message that Aaron conveyed a few months ago when he was invited to speak to dozens of students at Ohio State’s animal sciences club Saddle and Sirloin, which he was part of as an undergraduate.

“It’s kind of fun to go back and try to do what I can to inspire those kids, to say ‘If he can do it, I can.’

I like to convey the message that I’m a product of a very similar upbringing as a lot of these kids and you can do whatever you dream you want to,” he said. “One of my favorite parts is when I say ‘Here’s my contact information. You’re welcome to contact me if you need anything.’”

Aaron does what he can to help students find their calling and while teaching is not his full-time job, he’s an adjunct professor in Ohio State’s Department of Animal Sciences. He also continues to officiate livestock shows in the U.S. and internationally. For him, his life skills and success circle back to his livestock judging roots.

“Being part of a livestock judging team is probably one of the best opportunities a young person can have in animal agriculture. You get to travel to new places and interact with premier and respected breeders of livestock,” he said. “To form those connections and the opportunities that came with it kindles a lot of who I am today.”

Aaron has served on the boards of the Ohio Cattlemen’s Association, National Cattlemen’s Association

and Beef Improvement Federation and is always open to learning more about how to improve and promote the cattle industry.

“There’s a lot of people who maybe think we’re just in this for the money or we don’t treat animals humanely. As a meat scientist, I can tell you that the animals are well cared for and the process of harvesting is a very quiet, smooth and no suffering kind of deal. The measures that we have in place to ensure the animals never suffer is poorly understood by the average consumer,” he said.

Aaron lives in Richland County and raises Angus cattle with the help of his wife, Jill, and their three children, ages, 12, 10 and 8. Having their children grow up and help out on the farm is setting them up for future success, he said.

“Kids who grow up on a farm have a lot of resilience. These kids are tough. They always find a way to get the job done and have an incredible amount of perseverance,” he said. “It’s not a business that you just get lucky to be successful at. You’ve got to really, really love it.”

OCA NEWS

OCA HOSTS SUCCESSFUL REPLACEMENT FEMALE SALE The Ohio Cattlemen’s Association (OCA) held their 12th annual Replacement Female Sale on Nov. 29 at the Muskingum Livestock Auction Company in Zanesville, Ohio. A large crowd was on hand and online to bid on 82 high quality females in the sale. The sale represented an excellent opportunity for cow-calf producers to add quality females with documented breeding and health records to their herds.

Buyers evaluated 81 lots of bred heifers, bred cows, and cow-calf pairs at the auction. The sale included 54 bred heifers that averaged $2,961, 3 cow-calf pairs sold for $3,333, and 24 bred cows that averaged $2,804. One open cow sold for $1,250. The 82 total lots grossed $238,250 for an overall average of $2,905.

The females sold to buyers from Ohio, Pennsylvania and West Virginia. Col. Ron Kreis served as the auctioneer.

Sales prices were higher year over year driven by current cattle prices and the quality of the females offered, as the 2024 sale represented a $458 per head price increase over the 2023 sale. Demand was

very strong for quality females, as 72 lots sold for at least $2,500 and 34 of those sold for $3,000 or greater.

Erv-N-Del Farms of Louisville, Ohio consigned the top selling cows. The lot 40 purebred Simmental was sold to Zackery Jones of Freeport, Ohio for $3,600. The lot 44 purebred Simmental consigned by Erv-N-Del sold for $3,300 to Circle H Livestock from Dundee, Ohio.

1840 Angus Farm of Homerville, Ohio sold the high selling pair, lot 1 to LinJus Farms of Duncan Falls, Ohio at $3,700.

VanHorn Farms from Malta, Ohio sold the lot 72 LimFlex pair for $3,500 to Gail Williamson of Warsaw, Ohio.

Crum Cattle Company of Wooster, Ohio consigned the top selling bred heifer.

The lot 29 commercial half Simmental heifer sold to Rose Koehler of Lancaster, Ohio for $3,700. The second highest selling bred heifer sold for $3,600. 1840 Angus Farm of Homerville, Ohio sold the lot 7 SimAngus female to Zakery Jones

of Freeport, Ohio. Crum Cattle Company sold a pair of 50% Simmental heifers, lots 28 and 30 for $3,500. The lot 4 registered Angus heifer from 1840 Angus also sold for $3,500.

As in past years, the sale truly was an excellent opportunity for both buyers and sellers. Buyers were able to improve their herds by adding high quality females with known genetic and health backgrounds.

Sellers were able to capitalize on increased prices for breeding cattle, driven by historic highs in the cattle market throughout the past year.

For more information contact Garth Ruff, OCA Replacement Female Sale Manager at 740-651-7140 or ruff.72@osu.edu or OCA at 614-873-6736 or cattle@ohiocattle.org.

SUPPORT FUTURE BEEF INDUSTRY LEADERS The Ohio Cattlemen’s Foundation’s (OCF) mission is to advance the future of Ohio’s beef industry. Foundation donors help invest in industry specific educational programs, leadership development efforts and scholarships for beef industry youth.

These help to build a bright future for Ohio’s beef industry while preserving valued traditions and a way of life.

OCF is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit, public charity and is governed by a board of trustees with Ohio Cattlemen’s Association (OCA) leadership experience.

Contributions are tax deductible as allowed by law and support the mission and programs of the Foundation.

Financial support for the Foundation comes from individual donors, agricultural organizations and corporations/ foundations.

OCF maintains a family of scholarship endowments. All scholarships recognize 26 | Ohio Cattleman | Winter 2025

beef industry youth for academic effort, community service, and career interests that utilize agriculture to enhance our quality of life through service, education or research.

Have you seen a beef license plate on the road? These plates are part of the Tagged for Greatness scholarship program solely funded by sales of Ohio’s beef license plates. To date, over $70,000 has been awarded to deserving youth, through the beef tag program. To support the Tagged for Greatness fund, purchase your beef plate at your local BMV or online at www.oplates.com. Beef license plates are also available for commercial farm trucks.

Achieving excellence in education through OCF sponsored programs helps the beef industry to develop leaders for the future. Some of the programs currently sponsored by OCF are the Ohio Young Cattlemen’s Conference, the

National Cattlemen’s Beef Association Young Cattlemen’s Conference, Beef 509 Marketing Quality and Consistent Beef held in conjunction with the Ohio State University Department of Animal Sciences & OSU Extension, the Ohio State Fair Commercial Cattle Carcass Contest, the Ohio 4-H Foundation and the Ohio FFA Foundation, and various other youth activities.

To support OCF, donate online at ohiocattle.org or by mailing a check to the Ohio Cattlemen’s Foundation at 10600 U.S. Hwy 42, Marysville, Ohio 43040.

45 Bulls and a select group of Commercial Heifers Sell

20th Annual Production Sale

Saturday January 18, 2025 1:00 PM

Oesterling Benchmark 63 Reg. # 20908969

Oesterling Benchmark 83 Reg. # 20908976

Oesterling Resiliant 23 Reg. # 20908939

Oesterling Big Country 273 Reg # 20908943

Oesterling Commerce 3040 Reg # 20724053

Oesterling Justified 203 Reg. # 20908937

-Sires includedHoffman Thedford - Connealy Commerce Kraye Big Country 0179 Sitz Resilient - S Armstrong Ellingson Prolific - E&B Rival 175 KG Justified 3023 Mill Brae Benchmark 9016 Connealy Guard Rail 923E

24053 Vote Road Batesville, IN 47006 Office : 812.934.4574

- 12 Month Guarantee on Bulls -Free Wintering Available - Genomically Enhanced EPDs - Delivery Available -Performance Tested - Videos available leading up to the sale

More information availible at oesterlingangus.com Bill’s Cell: 812.212.2475

Joe’s Cell: 812.212.2058

Pictured is the current leadership of the Ohio Youth Council.

Providing Drought Relief Through Ag-LINK

By: Ohio Treasurer, Robert Sprague

Ohio farms, agribusinesses, and co-ops are vital to our economy, providing jobs, driving growth, feeding families, and fostering community pride. As one of the state’s key economic drivers, a strong agricultural sector is essential to Ohio’s continued success.

The Ohio Treasurer’s office has long administered the Ag-LINK program, which provides interest rate reductions on loans for farmers, agribusinesses, and co-ops.

In an effort to support the Ohio farmers most impacted by this year’s drought conditions, our office will be offering enhanced loan terms for a limited time, including a larger than usual interest rate reduction (current reduction is 2.5%), an extended loan term of two years (instead of one), and an increased loan cap of up to $750,000 (up from $500,000). These adjustments are designed to provide financial relief, helping farmers in affected counties manage up-front costs for feed, seed, fertilizer, and fuel as they recover from drought conditions.

The special terms will be available for a limited time, starting early 2025. Farmers outside the drought region will continue to receive the standard Ag-LINK terms. Eligible farmers should apply during the specified window and stay in contact with their lenders for updates on application procedures and deadlines.

More information will be forthcoming, and you can find the most up to date details on our website at tos.ohio.gov/aglink.

28 | Ohio Cattleman | Winter 2025

20 25

r e g ist r atiionng & hous

convention.ncba.org

TEXT BEEF TO 877-319-2142

NOOpWen

CALENDAR

of EVENTS

DECEMBER 27-29 OCA BEST Show - Saddle & Sirloin Spectacular, Circleville

JANUARY 3-5 15 18 20 24 24-26 29

OCA BEST Show - Scarlet & Gray Midwest Showdown, Columbus Ohio State Fair DNA Due Oesterling Angus 19th Annual Production Sale, Batesville, IN OCA Annual Meeting & Awards Banquet Registration Deadline OCA BEST Show Celebrity Showdown, Springfield OCA BEST Show Clark County Cattle Battle, Springfield Ohio Cattleman Expo Issue Advertising Deadline

FEBRUARY 1 4-6 7-9 15 28

OCA Annual Meeting & Awards Banquet Cattle Industry Convention & NCBA Trade Show, San Antonio, TX OCA BEST Show DTS Cupid Classic, Circleville OCA Summer Internship Applications Due OCA BEST Show Holmes County Preview, Millersburg

MARCH 1-2 8 13-16 24

OCA BEST Show Holmes County Preview, Millersburg Boyd Beef Cattle Performance Angus & Hereford Bull Sale, Mays Lick KY Ohio Beef Expo, Columbus Maplecrest Farms Performance Bull Sale, Hillsboro

Have you renewed your ip h s r e b m e m A C O for 2025?

Be on the lookout for your membership renewal email!

Renewal is quick & easy!

Visit ohiocattle.org/ membership to renew TODAY! Contact the OCA Office if you experience trouble renewing!

(614) 873-6736 | cattle@ohiocattle.org

APRIL 1 2

OCA BEST Deadline for Photography, BEST Reps., Character Traits Ohio Cattleman Spring Issue Advertising Deadline

Visit www.ohiocattle.org for a complete list of events

Winter 2025 | Ohio Cattleman | 29

PARTING SHOTS

OCA recently attended a Delaware County event in support of Ohio Lt. Governor Jon Husted.

Staff members, Anna Gest, Morgan Hoppes, and Kelly Keirn attended the Partnerships in Action conference hosted

by NCBA in Denver, Colorado.

Advertisers’ Index

OCA recently testified in support of Ohio drought relief legislation.

HB 683 sponsored by Representative Don Jones, left, that passed the Ohio House in early Dec. Attending the House finance committee hearing were OCA directors, from the left Joe Grubbs, Carroll County and Jim Jepsen, Fairfield County and Representative Monica Robb Blasdel.

30 | Ohio Cattleman | Winter 2025

American Angus Association..................... 15 Bonnie Bradford Carcass Ultrasound...........7 Buckeye Herefords.................................... 20 Four Star Veterinary Service...................... 11 Highland Livestock Supply......................... 11 Kalmbach................................................. 32 Karr Farms............................................... 17 Michigan Beef Expo...................................9 National Cattlemen’s Beef Association...... 28 Ohio Angus Association............................. 28 Oesterling Angus.......................................27 PBS Animal Health...................................... 5 Reed & Baur Insurance............................... 8 S & F Transport.........................................15 Select Sires Member Co-op.........................2 United Producers Inc.................................. 5 Vitalix.......................................................11 Weaver Livestock.......................................15 Zimmer Tractor..........................................31

Winter 2025 | Ohio Cattleman | 31

®

®

Contact your local dealer or sales representative today!

kalmbachfeeds.com (888) 771-1250 32 | Ohio Cattleman | Winter 2025