The Progressive Rancher March 2020

IN THIS ISSUE

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www.progressiverancher.com Comprehensive Feasibility Study: U.S. Beef Cattle Identification and Traceability Systems Evaluation of Opportunities, Obstacles and Incentives Across the U.S. Beef Industry Value Chain Phasing Out Select Grade Beef "They Don’t Produce Income If They Don’t Reproduce" - Recap of 21st Annual Utah Beef Cattle Field Day Hard Copy Issues of this magazine are now only available in Nevada, Utah, California, Idaho, Oregon & Washington, D.C. so keep up with issues FREE at our website and on Facebook

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3 President's Persecptive - NCBA National Convention Report 4 NCA Roundup - 2020 Fallon All Breeds Bull Sale Report 6 NBC Checkoff News "New Ads" 7 NBC Beef Recipes 8 In The Mind of a Millennial 10 Eye on the Outside - NCBA 11 Churchill County FFA Update 12 Nevada CattleWomen - ANCW National Meetings Report 13 Let's Talk Ag - Americans Dietary Guidelines - Editorial 16 California Beef Council - WVM Awarded 2020 BQA Marketer 16 UNR Extension: Sheila Bray Joins Extension Office in Clark Co. 18 NV SRM - Strategies for Grazing Managment 20 Animal Health - Excerpt from Youth BQA PNW Manual 21 NRRC - Accepting Proposals at Annual Meeting

The Progressive Rancher Owner/Editor/Publisher – Leana Litten Carey progressiverancher@elko.net Graphic Design/Layout – www.AllegraReno.com

Cover Credit: Leana Carey " Buyers a Plenty"

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21 Nevada Agricultural Foundation New Scholarship Fund 22 NFB - Transforming the System of Decision Making 23 NFB - Scholarship Opportunity 26 WSU - Trich Diagnosis & Official Regulatory Testing 27 USU - Changes in Trich Law 28 Range Plants for the Rancher Reed Canarygrass 31 Beef Cattle Institute: BCI Cattle Chat & Research Update 32 American Angus Association: EPDs and $Value Definitions 34 UT Extension: What Do the Angus EPDs Really Mean?

36 Churchill Cowbelles Beef Recipe 37 Churchill Cowbelles Update 38 USDA Carcass Beef Grades & Standards 101 40 Beef Carcass Quality - Excerpt from Youth BQA PNW Manual 43 Nevada FFA March Events

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President's perspective

By Tom Barnes, President, Nevada Cattlemen's Association I recently returned from the NCBA National Convention in San Antonio. It really is quite impressive - close to 8,500 attendees with an eight acre trade show and vendors from all across the nation.

Leaders representing states from coast to coast came together to work on issues facing our industry. The overall attitude of the convention was very positive.

CORRECTIONS TO ERRORS IN NCA AWARDS PHOTO CAPTIONS

It has come to our attention that four photos in the January 2020 Progressive Rancher were run with incorrect captions (ie, cut lines). We apologize for this accidental oversight.

Below are the photos with the correct information.

We have had a lot of industry wins over the past year and the current administration is committed to helping us as an industry. We have been able to repeal and replace WOTUS, although the rule is not completely gone it is a lot friendlier to agriculture than it was. There have also been positive changes to the EPA. The recent trade agreements are going to increase our export markets, not only to current trading partners but to other countries we have not exported to yet, which will obviously be positive for our industry.

Domestic demand for beef is in an upward trend thanks in part to the hard work done by the beef council through our check off dollars. The fake meat issue is one NCBA is continuing to work hard on. Legislation has been introduced protecting the integrity of beef through labeling. The focus in battling these plant based substitutes has been to focus on the positive traits of beef and the fact that beef has only one ingredient. Market research

has shown that these substitutes only have one percent of the market share. Not something we should take lightly but still proving consumers enjoy the taste and nutritional benefits beef provides.

The Beef Quality Assurance program is one that seems to be becoming more important all the time. While we are enjoying an increase in domestic beef demand, it is more important than ever that we work to build consumer confidence in beef. At the NCBA convention, beef processors came forward to stress the importance of the program and to ask for more producer participation.

I left this convention with a real appreciation for how much NCBA does and all those who dedicate their time and lives to keep the beef industry strong.

Next year’s convention will be in Nashville, TN. I would strongly recommend that anyone wanting to be informed on beef issues outside of Nevada and wanting to visit an amazing trade show to attend; it will be worth your time.

WHAT IS BEEF QUALITY ASSURANCE (BQA)?

L to R: Hanes Holman, 1st Vice President. Tom Barnes, President.

Jon Griggs, President-elect. Dave Baker, 2nd Vice-President.

BQA is a nationally coordinated, state implemented program which provides science-based education to producers to enhance carcass quality and safety while also improving animal care. The program has evolved to include best practices around stockmanship, good record keeping, and herd health, which can result in increased profit for producers. BQA is designed to ensure consumers can take pride in what they purchase, and can trust and have confidence in the entire beef industry.

L to R: Harvey and Suzy Barnes. Audrey and Boyd Spratling.

BEEF QUALITY ASSURANCE CERTIFICATION:

L to R: Sam Mori, Lucy Rechel and Joe Guild.

• Complete your certification at www.BQA.org » Available on-demand. Start/stop as you please.

Estimated training time is 2.5 hours. » Select the training most appropriate for your cattle operation: Cow-Calf, Stocker/ Backgrounder, or Feedyard.

• Or attend a local, in-person training » Trainings organized by local BQA trainers and experts, contact your BQA state coordinator to learn about opportunities.

THE RIGHT WAY IS THE

ONLY WAY ONLY

Read the new 2020 NCBA manual here: L to R: Travis Brewer LaChapelle, Deputy Northern Nevada Director for Senator Jacky Rosen. Martin Paris, Rural Representative for U.S. Congressman Mark Amodei. Breanna White, Sue Hoffman and Tom Barnes. www.progressiverancher.com

National Cattlemen’s Beef Association 9110 E. Nichols Avenue, Suite 300 Centennial, Colorado 80112 303.694.0305 • BQA.org

www.bqa.org/Media/BQA/ Docs/bqa_manual_final.pdf

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WHAT IS BEEF QUALITY ASSURANCE TRANSPORTATION (BQAT)?

BQAT plays a critical role in the health and welfare of cattle. The proper handling and transport of cattle can reduce sickness, prevent bruises, and improve the quality of the meat from these animals.

When a transporter participates in BQAT, they show customers and consumers they are ready to take every step possible to ensure the health and safety of the cattle in which they are transporting.

The BQAT program covers many topics, including: • Cattle handling principles and guidelines • Checklists for loading/unloading • Checklists for hot/cold weather factors • Evaluation of Fitness for Transport • Checklist for traveling • Loading suggestions and worksheets • Biosecurity & Emergency Action Plans

BEEF QUALITY ASSURANCE TRANSPORTATION CERTIFICATION: • Complete your certification at www.BQA.org » Available on-demand. Start/stop as you please.

Estimated training time is 2.5 hours. » Select the training most appropriate for your business: Farmer-Rancher or Professional Transporter.

• Or attend a local, in-person training » Trainings organized by local BQA trainers and experts, contact your BQA state coordinator to learn about opportunities.

ONLY WAY

MARCH 2020 3

2020 Fallon All Breeds Bull Sale Report

By Kaley Chapin, Executive Director, Nevada Cattlemen’s Association On February 15, 2020, the Nevada Cattlemen’s Association held their 54th Annual Fallon All Breeds Bull Sale (FBS).

Consignments arrived on Thursday the 13th, and the festivities began early on Friday the 14th. Sifting and Grading of the bulls took place in the morning of the 14th while the Outdoor Tradeshow Vendors set up their displays.

Each year, the consignors continue to bring high-quality bulls. Because of the high quality of bulls and dedicated support to the sale, the sale continues to be a success and reach out to many of the western states. The Nevada Cattlemen’s Association and Fallon Bull Sale Committee thank you for your participation and congratulate this year’s award recipients.

UT for $3,000.00. This year’s recipient of the volume buyer jacket is Steve Lucas of Lucas Livestock. A special thank you to this year’s volume buyer and all of the buyers. Whether you bought one bull or nine, your continued support of the Fallon Bull Sale is much appreciated.

Along with the dedicated group of buyers and consignors that participate in the sale, there are several sponsors who The Top Range Bull and the Angus help make the sale possible year after year This year’s sale featured bulls ranging Best of Breed were awarded to Amador and they include: Pinenut Livestock, from 14-25 months of age. Cattlemen Angus for lot #80. It was sold to Kurt (ear tags for the sale); City of Fallon Hamann of Gardnerville, NV for - Convention & Tourism Authority from California, Idaho, Nevada, Oregon, $6,000.00. This was also the highest (grant for advertising); Progressive and Utah attended the sale looking to selling bull. Thank you to both parties Rancher and Nevada Rancher buy their range-ready bulls for the year. for your participation and support of (advertisement for the sale); Ott’s Farm The Sale Average for the top 60 bulls the Fallon All Breeds Bull Sale. The Equipment (general sponsorship); Hoof sold came to $3,308. Breed Averages Hereford Best of Breed was awarded to Beats (for donating the panels for the included: Angus for $2,898; Herefords Daniels Hereford Ranch for lot #35. It FFA raffle); and Great Basin Ranch of for $3,272; and Red Angus for $2,525. was sold to Bret Selman of Tremonton, Southern Nevada Water Authority (for

donating the “Raffle Calf ”, proceeds go to benefit Churchill FFA and the NCA Scholarship Fund). Along with these dedicated sponsors, a big thank you to Stix Cattle Company and Demar Dahl for contributing a donation calf.

Something new this year, during the sale, items donated by Miller Livestock Solutions (CowBos supplement) and Amador Angus (a box of preserves) were auctioned off and the funds raised went to benefit a family in need of help within the livestock industry.

The NCA would like to thank the Churchill County FFA, Churchill County Cowbelles, Sale Ringmen, Eric Duarte (Auctioneer), the Fallon Bull Sale Committee members, and Fallon Livestock LLC. for helping with this yearly sale. Without their support and hard work, this sale wouldn't be possible!

Photos: Leana Carey

4 MARCH 2020

The Progressive Rancher

Cut lines: Kaley Chapin

www.progressiverancher.com

Best of Red Angus Lot #43 of Owings Cattle

Top Range Bull and the Angus Best of Breed Award Winner, Amador Angus Ed Amador (Left) and Tom Barnes, NCA President (Right)

Lot #80, Top Range Bull and the Angus Best of Breed, awarded to Amador Angus

Lot #35, Hereford Best of Breed awarded to Daniels Hereford Ranch www.progressiverancher.com

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Hereford Best of Breed Award Winners Dan and Teresa Daniels (Left) and Tom Barnes, NCA President (Right) MARCH 2020 5 

CHECKOFF NEWS New Ads Tackle Health, Sustainability and Meat Substitutes The Beef Checkoff and its Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner. brand launched an ad campaign in 2018 using the phrase “Nicely done, beef.” as a foundation for content that promoted beef in fun and creative ways. This year, the brand is taking those successful ads to a new level, addressing common questions and hot topics in the beef industry head-on with the launch of new digital and social media ads focusing on the topics of sustainability, health and meat substitutes. Staying true to the brand’s notable swagger, the ads leverage the popular “Nicely done, beef ” creative wrapper to directly address misinformation while highlighting beef ’s strongest attributes – taste, quality, health sustainable production.

directing them back to BeefItsWhatsForDinner.com where they can learn about beef ’s powerful nutrition and sustainability stories, and find beefy mealtime inspiration. “As a contractor to the Beef Checkoff, we are using the dollars of beef farmers and ranchers to ensure consumers, media, chefs, dietitians and food service and retail partners have the facts when it comes to beef,” Alisa Harrison, senior vice president, Global Marketing & Research. “It’s important to keep in mind that consumers crave real beef and meat alternatives represent less than 1 percent market share, while real beef represents more than 99% market share or sales at retail and foodservice.

While these products aren’t replacing beef, we still want to ensure people are choosing their proteins based on facts and not fear-based misinformation.”

By Nevada Beef Council Staff done, beef. You prove that meat substitutes are just that.

Substitutes.” has more than 53 million impressions since it was launched and has resulted in more than 286,000 clicks back to the BeefItsWhatsForDinner.com website.

In 2019 alone, Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner. marketing efforts, including the Nicely done ads, reached consumers more than 1 billion times.

These ads are just latest in the “Nicely done, beef.” series, which were first released in early 2018. One of the original, “Nicely done, beef.” ads, which says “Nicely

“This year the Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner. Checkofffunded programs are focused on continuing to drive demand for beef by re-enforcing that real beef ’s great taste and nutrition that cannot be replicated and directly addressing myths that may affect consumer decisions to choose beef,” said Laurie Munns, a cattle rancher from Hansel Valley, Utah and Federation Division Chairman, at the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association. “To achieve this, we are leaning on checkoff-funded technical research and focusing on the real facts about real beef.”

The new series of ads are currently running on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter, and additional creative elements such as video, programmatic and native advertising will continue to be rolled out this spring. The ads directly target older millennial consumers, especially parents,

The NBC’s current board of directors, from right to left: John Jackson (cow-calf, Tuscarora), Lucy Rechel (feeder, Yerington), Jay Dalton (cow-calf, Wells), Ray Callahan (cow-calf, Reno), Ted Christoph (dairy, Fallon), Gary Ward (cow-calf, Gardnerville) and Bernard Petersen (cow-calf, Ely).

NBC Board Seats Available NBC Board Seats Available The Nevada Beef Council is currently accepting applications for two board seats that will become available this May. One of the available board seats represents the feeder sector; the other represents the cow-calf sector in western Nevada. Beef producers representing either of these sectors who are interested in serving as a council member must submit an application by April 30.

The council meets three times annually – twice in person, and once via conference call. Council members provide feedback, guidance and input on the activities and programs of the NBC.

Applications are available at www.nevadabeef.org, or call 877-554-BEEF (2333) to request an application to be mailed or e-mailed to you.

6 MARCH 2020

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Corned Beef and Pickle Dip

By Nevada Beef Council Staff

When it comes to delicious leftover ideas for those corned beef briskets that are popular this time of year, there are plenty of ideas to choose from. For a unique take on corned beef leftovers, try this simple-but-tasty dip as an appetizer or a sandwich spread.

INGREDIENTS:

• 12 ounces corned beef brisket, cold, diced • 1-1/2 cups diced dill pickles • 1 cup mayonnaise

PREPARATION

Place Corned Beef Brisket in food processor bowl. Pulse on and off until beef becomes crumbly in texture. Add pickles and mayonnaise; pulse 5 times to combine. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use.

Use spread for sandwiches or serve as a dip with vegetables and crackers.

Courtesy of Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner.

TINY TACO BEEF TARTS A fun and easy-to-prepare recipe that will win over any crowd.

INGREDIENTS:

• 12 ounces ground beef (93% lean or leaner) • 1/2 cup chopped onion • 1 teaspoon minced garlic • 1/2 cup prepared mild or medium taco sauce • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin • 1/4 teaspoon salt • 1/8 teaspoon pepper • 2 packages (2.1 oz each) frozen mini phyllo shells (30 shells total) • 1/2 cup shredded reduced fat Mexican cheese blend Topping suggestions: shredded lettuce, cilantro, sliced cherry or grape tomatoes, pickled jalapenos, guacamole, sour cream, sliced olives

PREPARATION

Heat oven to 350°F. Heat large nonstick skillet over medium heat until hot.

Add ground beef, onion and garlic in large nonstick skillet over medium heat 8 to 10 minutes, crumbling & stirring beef. Add taco sauce, cumin, salt and pepper; cook and stir 1 to 2 minutes or until mixture is heated through.

Place phyllo shells on rimmed baking sheet. Spoon beef mixture evenly into shells. Top evenly with cheese. Bake 9 to 10 minutes or until shells are crisp and cheese is melted. Top tarts with two or three desired garnishes. www.progressiverancher.com

Courtesy of Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner.

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Cook's Tip: Cooking times are for fresh or thoroughly thawed ground beef. Ground beef should be cooked to an internal temperature of 160ºF. Color is not a reliable indicator of ground beef doneness.

MARCH 2020 7

In the Mind of a Millennial Reaching 1 Billion Consumers

By Jill Scofield Director of Producer Relations, California & Nevada Beef Council “Why don’t we see Beef. It’s What’s For inside the lives of real farmers and Dinner. commercials on TV anymore?” ranchers and how they continue to produce more high-quality beef more While I don’t hear this question quite as sustainably than ever before. often as I used to, it is still an inquiry we at the Nevada Beef Council get from Nicely Done, Beef time to time. I miss the gravely voice of Sam Elliott coupled with savory beef This ongoing campaign highlights beef ’s imaging as much as the next person, greatest assets - it’s pleasurable eating but just because these types of ads experience, the amazing people who aren’t hitting the airwaves on traditional raise beef and the nutrients beef provides. television stations doesn’t mean the These messages are delivered through a consistent “nicely done” creative wrapper, word isn’t getting out there. with various ads communicating When it comes down to it, efforts of the everything from “Nicely done, beef. You Beef Checkoff and State Beef Councils prove that meat substitutes are just that. such as ours have evolved to reach Substitutes.” to “Nicely done, beef. You consumers more frequently and more build strong muscles. No protein shake effectively than ever more. In fact, two required.” years after the relaunch of the iconic Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner. brand, the The Right Way Beef Checkoff announced it has reached over 1 billion consumers with creative Launched in October of last year, and informative digital marketing and this most recent campaign introduces consumers to the Beef Quality Assurance social media content.

(BQA) program, a Beef CheckoffSince its introduction more than 25 funded voluntary program ensuring U.S. years ago, Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner. beef is produced under stringent animal marketing strategies have continued to care standards, resulting in safe, highevolve and adapt to changing media quality meat. landscapes. This evolution included a shift away from television advertising Chuck Knows Beef to focus on digital marketing efforts.

In addition to these, and many other Specifically, during the past two years, creative and informative, campaigns, the brand has developed and executed Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner. created the several successful integrated digital first all-knowing beef virtual assistant, marketing campaigns. A few highlights Chuck Knows Beef. Powered by Google include: Artificial Intelligence, Chuck can serve up recipes and answer a variety of beefRethink the Ranch related questions – from nutrition, Introduced in 2017 in conjunction cut and cooking information to how with the relaunch of Beef. It’s What’s beef is raised. Chuck can be accessed For Dinner., this particular campaign on a computer or smart phone at featured the people behind beef. From ChuckKnowsBeef.com or through ranch to plate and everything in between, Amazon Alexa or Google Home smart this video series gave consumers a look devices.

8 MARCH 2020

Local Efforts For the Nevada Beef Council, efforts to reach and engage consumers have also evolved. For example, our consumer marketing efforts and our retail promotions have shifted to more comprehensive integrated marketing campaigns that target Nevada consumers at key points along their path to purchase.

This includes the use of smart phone technology to incentivize the purchasing of beef at the retail level, using the popular smart phone app Ibotta to offer cash-back rebates on beef cuts during our campaigns. This shift has resulted in greater consumer engagement, more far-reaching marketing campaigns, and higher sales of the beef cuts featured in these campaigns.

(behind Amazon, ebay, OfferUp, and Groupon). Not only has Ibotta proven to be a cost-effective way for the NBC to offer a purchase incentive, but we also are able to obtain metrics about those that are engaging with our beef brand And our most recent integrated and purchasing beef. marketing campaign that took place in Fall 2019 proved once again that these Like other integrated marketing campaigns the NBC has conducted adjustments in tactics are paying off. in recent years, Elevate Your Tailgate The NBC’s “Elevate Your Tailgate” also incorporated a number of other campaign featured a variety of elements elements to reach consumers, including designed to encourage consumers to a comprehensive radio and digital purchase beef, including a $4 rebate on advertising campaign targeting Nevada Tri Tip steaks or roasts, 12 ounces or consumers focusing on the Reno and larger, through the Ibotta app. To unlock Las Vegas markets. The advertising this enticing offer, shoppers simply resulted in over 3.9 million impressions had to view a 15 second video sharing by Nevada consumers. information about “Chuck Knows Beef.”

The Ibotta offer alone resulted in nearly So while you might not see a BIWFD ad 2.5 million brand impressions, 18,554 on a major television network during the brand engagements (or the number of evening news any time soon, just know consumers who watched the NBC video these cumulative efforts are reaching through the Ibotta app to unlock the $4 more and more consumers in creative and engaging ways, and importantly, rebate) and 5,847 rebates redeemed. using methods that resonate with today’s Offering a purchase incentive is one of consumer. the best ways to drive beef purchases at the retail level. Pew research shows Want to learn more about the Nevada that 81 percent of Americans own a Beef Council’s programs and efforts? smartphone device, and the Ibotta Download our latest annual report at app is the #5 most-used shopping app www.nevadabeef.org.

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MARCH 2020 9

By Joseph Guild

How the NCBA is Winning Everyone loves a winner. But how do you measure a win? In sports it is easy; the score tells the tale. In public policy disputes, sometimes a win is no action by the regulator or the legislature. At other times, small incremental moves forward or back on the way to the goal can be considered wins. And, in the world of trade associations like the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA), if you don’t win, do you pick up your marbles and go home, or do you keep trying? The answer should be obvious - you don’t quit when there are setbacks; you continue to try and win.

2019 was a big year for NCBA. There were a lot of policy victories which I will discuss below. This is in comparison to a period during the last presidential administration when it was a win when nothing bad happened to the beef industry. It is a testament to persistence and a no-quit attitude that NCBA was there to take advantage of the opportunities provided during this past year. It also means there is always more work to be done and the successes of one year do not translate into a rest upon your laurels.

Nevertheless, the big news was on the trade front. It is well known by now the American beef industry needs to export beef to continue to grow. Beef demand has risen at a steady pace over the last 10 years (more on this below). But to make the industry more profitable for cattle growers, we need to tap into the seemingly insatiable demand for our product around the world, but particularly in Asia. In Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Vietnam and China there is a huge interest and growing demand for American beef. We have been at a competitive disadvantage against Australia, for example, in Japan because Australian beef is subject to a 9% tariff and we are charged a 29% tariff.

That has all changed with the recent signing of a new trade agreement with Japan which will put us on a parity with the Australia tariff incrementally within 15 10 MARCH 2020

years. Also, a new agreement with Korea and an expansion of the number of metric tons of beef we can ship to European Union countries will add to the total exports of beef around the world. Ironically, there is also an opportunity to create a new trading deal with Great Britain as result of its exit from the European Union that could add even more to our total export picture.

“You don’t quit when there are setbacks; you continue to try and win."

Finally, the first phase of a new trade agreement with China will begin to open that market within a few short years.

The growing Chinese middle class has a large appetite for American beef and the population of this group exceeds that of the entire United States. To top off a great year for our trading prospects the USMCA agreement between the U.S., Mexico and Canada which replaced NAFTA makes almost all agricultural commodities tariff free between our three countries. This is important because Canada and Mexico are two of our biggest trading partners.

United States” or WOTUS. After years of working on this issue, NCBA can report a significant win. A new rule called “The Navigable Waters Protection Rule” was announced in September of last year. The title is significant because the CWA was passed to protect navigable waters, not every water and the land surrounding that water. The agency and the courts expanded the definition of such a water over the years which culminated in the overreaching 2015 rule which, as you know, sought jurisdiction, among other things, over ephemeral streams in the west and seasonal farm ponds in other parts of the country. I read one estimate recently which reported the 2015 rule would have given the EPA jurisdiction over more than 90% of the state of North Dakota.

mislead the consuming public about the nature of their products. Beef comes from one source; a bovine four-legged animal that converts three ingredients (plants humans can’t eat, sunshine and water) to the best protein in the world.

Add to these many important strides forward, proposed Endangered Species Act reform, update of the National Environmental Protection Act to make it more streamlined and less burdensome while still working to protect and enhance our environment, and the defeat of the Green New Deal, and you have another impressive set of accomplishments.

While all these great policy achievements are noteworthy, I think we should also acknowledge the continued success of the beef checkoff program and what it means to the future of our industry. Among the many goals of the program are drive global demand for beef, grow consumer trust, communicate the unique values of beef, invest in all areas of research, and make sure producers are profitable so the industry can be sustainable.

The 2019 rule is being scrutinized and criticized as this is written by groups who want more Washington D.C. control over land and water in the United States to further their own radical agendas. No doubt when the rule is finalized it will be challenged in court. However, if it wasn’t for the work of NCBA and others, this rule would never have been promulgated, so I consider this one of the major industry To these ends, I have shown above how world-wide demand continues to increase. victories of the last decade or more.

The Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) In October 2019, the bipartisan Real program continues to grow with over The U.S. exports more beef than any other Meat Act was introduced in the U.S. 350,000 certifications issued to date. The country in the world. 2019 exports were House by U.S. Reps. Roger Marshall Beef It’s What’s For Dinner marketing valued at close to $7 billion which equals (R-Kansas) and Anthony Brindisi (D- program is now almost exclusively online over 14% of the total U.S. production. N.Y.). In December a companion bill was with more targeted advertising and a Obviously, with these new trade deals, introduced by U.S. Sens. Deb Fischer (R- greater audience than ever before.

American beef producers will enjoy Nebraska) and Catherine Cortez Masto a growing world-wide demand and a (D-Nevada). These bills would codify the What should we tell our non-ranch public continued domestic demand increase. I definition of beef for labeling purposes, about us when we get the chance? Our have no doubt the industry will be able to reinforce existing misbranding provisions cattle are natural upcyclers capable of fulfill the world’s desire for more of this to eliminate consumer confusion and converting low-quality, human inedible enhance the Federal Government’s ability feeds into the high-quality protein needed protein choice. in the human diet. And all of this is done to enforce the law. in an environmentally responsible way. All Many readers are aware that during the Obama administration the Environmental NCBA was instrumental in providing U.S. beef production including growing Protection Agency (EPA) attempted to information to help draft the bills and animal feed is responsible for only 3.3% of expand federal jurisdiction under the Clean securing bipartisan support for them. The U.S. greenhouse gas emissions. So tell the Water Act (CWA) over a vast amount obvious reason such a law is necessary is to good story and be glad for the successes. of land in the United States by issuing a prevent plant based and lab grown meat new rule in 2015 defining a “water of the substitutes from using the word beef to I’ll see you soon.

The Progressive Rancher

www.progressiverancher.com

CHURCHILL COUNTY FFA News & Updates

by Bethie Ikonen, Churchill County FFA Reporter Churchill County FFA started off February 1st with Western Zone where we competed with other chapters from the state in our career development events (CDEs) that we plan on competing in at state this March (held in Reno local facilities and businesses depending on the event). At our zone competition, member Mckay Winder got first place in Employability and Marie Lawson got second. Our team won Floriculture, and the Poultry team took home the win. Our Meats team came in 2nd place, and our Horse Judging team came in a strong 3rd place.

We have a lot of hard working kids and we will continue practicing to get ready for the Nevada State FFA Convention held March 17-20, 2020 at UNR. Next month we will be busy preparing for state and then head off to Reno to compete in our CDEs with other teams from all over the state of Nevada. We have a lot of great parents who volunteer each year to educate us in our field

of study and also take time to chaperone at State. We appreciate those parents very much, as we could not do any of this without them and the help of our great community and teacher.

This month we also helped out at The Fallon All Breeds Bull Sale held annually at the Fallon Livestock Exchange. Our Chapter helped do a little bit of everything, from laying down shavings to working the dinner. We have also done three fundraisers this month!

We sold 200 Bull Sale raffle tickets to win a heifer calf donated by Great Basin RanchSNWA and 4 panels donated by Hoof Beats, Carnation flowers for Valentine’s Day, and beef jerky sticks.

Please keep a look out for the next article and the upcoming events we have in Fallon brought to you by the Churchill County FFA Chapter.

Until next time, God Bless and EAT BEEF!

Ranch properties now available Cory Ranch Starr Valley

PENDING

1110 acres with over 400 with Surface water rights.

On paved State Route approximately 35 minutes out of Elko and 15 minutes West Of Wells. Borders Forest. Great Ranch priced to sell at $1,499,000.

Antelope Peak Ranch

5,300 deeded w/ BLM permit attached. 5 center pivots irrigating approx. 583 acres plus another 28 acres with surface water rights out of large spring. Three homes plus shop and other outbuildings. 1 land owner Elk Tag. Offered at $3,600,000.

Elko Area River Property with Water Rights

650 deeded acres of which approximately 300 acres have surface water rights out of the Humboldt. May work well for mitigation of environmental and water issues. Access at the Ryndon Exit. Price: $950,000.

Flat Nose Ranch East Side

This ranch is just outside of Pioche, Nevada approximately 2 hours north of Las Vegas. 700+ Acres with approx. 495 acres water righted with surface and underground water rights. Ranch has been getting 1-6 landowner Mule Deer tags each year.

Price: $2,700,000

For additional information on these properties, go to: BOTTARIREALTY.COM

Paul D. Bottari, Broker

paul@bottarirealty.com

1222 6th St. PO Box 368 Wells, NV 89835

www.progressiverancher.com

Work: 775.752.3040

Home: 775.752.3809 Fax: 775.752.3021 The Progressive Rancher

MARCH 2020 11

by Melinda Sarman, President

Report on the ANCW National Meetings held in San Antonio, Texas Deep in the Heart of Texas is where the American National CattleWomen met this year for our annual conference. The conference was in San Antonio, Texas and was held on February 3-5, 2020.

The national meeting started with a welcome from President Wand Pinnow.

First on the agenda was the President's Council, followed by an Executive Board meeting.

The afternoon was filled with an ANCW tour of Texana Feeders in Floresville, Texas and Dean & Peeler Meat Works in Poth, Texas. The tour ended with dinner at the Buckhorn Saloon and Texas Ranger Museum. The next day began with NCBA Legislative Reports from Colin Wooddall and Public Lands Council Reports by Tanner Beymer. Following, this, the group was presented with reports on WIRED (Women In Ranching Education and Development) and a Board of Directors Meeting. Wrap of up reports were given on the 2019 Collegiate Beef Advocacy Program and a thank you was given to Western Nevada CattleWomen for their monetary donation.

The Financial Reports were given by Tammi Dilot and Jill Worthington. This past year, Nevada CattleWomen were well represented by Staci Emm from Mineral County, NV. She was selected to be the Parliamentarian for the 2019 ANCW officer team. Staci was actively involved in the ANCW leadership certification program. I am grateful for her dedication to America National CattleWomen, and commend her on a job well done.

ANCW also announced awards and Installation of the new officer team. The new officers are as follows: President: Evelyn Greene Alabama President-Elect: Reba Mazak Florida Vice President: Pam Griffin Arizona Recording Secretary: Desta Crawford Business Manager: Jill Worthington Oklahoma CFO: Tammi Didlot Oklahoma Past President: Wanda Pinnow Montana Region I Director: Jodi Jordan Indiana Region II Director: Debbie Gill Florida Region III Director: Kasey Wallace Iowa Region IV Director: Debbie Gill Texas Region V Director: Angela Whitlock Wyoming Region VI Director: Nikki Weston Utah Region VII Director: Shirley Thompson South Dakota Chair of the Board of Directors: Sheila Bowen – California Parliamentarian: Lana Slaten Alabama

On the last day of meetings, ANCW members had reports from Julie Anna Potts of the Meat Institute, followed by the presentation “Turning Visions into Legacies” from Gwen and Mike McCormack of Lincoln Financial Network.

During the meeting, I was able to meet with California and Arizona CattleWomen and Cowbelles.

The California CattleWomen will be having a WIRED (Women In Ranching Education and Development) on April 24 Woodland, California. The WIRED Programs are: cattle handling and pen design, chute side manners, calf processing, drought and forage management, record keeping, marketing options, DNA testing, leadership training, financing options, and Beef Quality Assurance.

Then on April 27-29, 2020 the Region VI Meeting in will be held in Tempe, Arizona. The Arizona Cowbelles are in charge of hosting the Region VI meetings for 2020.

CattleWomen from New Mexico, Utah, Hawaii, Arizona, California and Nevada will gather for meetings. For more information on both events please go to: WWW.anca.org Nevada CattleWomen Inc. along with NCBA and Nevada Beef Council are working hard for you. A celebration is under way to provide Stockmanship and Stewardship/ WIRED programs in Nevada.

Effective Stockmanship training will provide hands on cattle care demon­ stration, livestock training and Beef Quality Assurance programs. Please look for my next article for more information regarding this.

If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to give me a call at 775-385-3619 or email MelindaSarman@gmail.com.

Until next time.

WIRED April 24, 2020 Woodland, CA Online registration at ANCW.org ANCW Region VI Meeting April 27-29, 2020 Tempe, AZ Online ANCW.org or Arizonacowbelles.org/ upcoming-events

Todd Miller

(210) 695-1648 www.headhonchosllc.com

LEGAL & Seasonal papered ranch workers, farm workers, and cowboys from old MEXICO. Work visa specialist with 18 yrs. of expert experience & focused knowledge. Large ranch operation references.

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The Progressive Rancher

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Let’s Talk Ag

Americans Dietary Guidelines Up for Discussion EDITORIAL By Staci Emm

Work is underway by the United States Department of Agriculture and Human and Health services to create the upcoming edition of the 2020-2025 Dietary Guidelines. Some may ask why these guidelines are so important. Dietary guidelines for Americans is a way for the federal government to emphasize the importance of a healthy diet to reduce chronic disease. All federal nutrition programs have to adhere to the guidelines.

the Veggies for Kids program in early 2002 under the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program-Education (SNAP-Ed). At that time, it was called “MyPyramid” that portrayed the foods groups of grains, vegetables, fruits, dairy and meat and beans. I also believe oils were included in there somewhere too, with a person running up the side of the pyramid to highlight physical activity.

The 8th edition for the dietary guidelines was published for 2015-2020 and featured “MyPlate.” MyPlate portrays the amounts of vegetables, fruits, grains, protein and dairy that one should have on their plate for a balanced diet. This balanced diet also recommended the reduction of fats in the diet and did not highlight physical activity. It is being used right now across the United States in all our schools, senior centers and afterschool programs.

The first set of dietary guidelines were released in 1980 and set the stage and the tone for all federal nutrition programs.

Congress passed the National Nutrition Monitoring and Related Research Act (1990) that mandated the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and Health and Human Services (HHS) to jointly publish dietary guidelines every five years. I first became familiar with the guidelines when we were creating

The direction that USDA and HHS are taking for our new 2020-2025 dietary guidelines is a life-stage approach from birth to senior citizen. There is a 20 person advisory committee that was appointed.

The advisory committee members are experts in their field and they will review scientific evidence, topics and questions put forth by the departments and report their findings to the secretaries.

While the public is also requested to put forth comments, the advisory committee was put together through a public request for nominations where nominees highlighted their educational background, professional experience, and demonstrated scientific expertise. The following factors were considered by the USDA Food Nutrition and Consumer Service (FNCS), the USDA Research, Education and Econmics (REE), and the HHS Office of the Assistant Secreatary for Health (OASH) on the obligations under the Federal Advisory Committee Act and the requirements regarding a balanced membership. How about those acyroynms?

Committee members also had to go through personal ethics screenings. What is interesting is how they plan to come up with new guidelines and the methodology that will be used. According to the USDA website, they will be taking into consideration data analysis to understand the current health and dietary intakes of Americans; Food Pattern Modeling to understand how changes to the amounts or types of foods and beverages impact nutrient needs across America; and NESR Systematic reviews, which answer questions on diet and health by searching for, evaluating and synthesizing all relevant peer-reviewed studies.

Veggies for Kids Gene Protein

1946 Sand Hollow Rd • Vale, OR 97918 • 541.473.4014

Jerald

208.250.7568

Thomas K. Gallagher, PE 775•825•1653 / FAX 775•825•1683 333 Flint Street / Reno, NV 89501 tomg@nevadawatersolutions.com

www.progressiverancher.com

My take is that they use to say too many eggs were bad. My grandmother that lived to almost 99 years old had eggs every morning for breakfast. Now it’s too much red meat is bad. I cannot give up my filet mignon with blue cheese crumbles. I just can’t do it. I will also close with a picture of “Gene Protein” who is our protein character for our Veggies for Kids program.

Who doesn’t like a big ole T-bone?

Holloway livestock

Nevada Water Solutions LLC Water Rights / Resource Permitting Expertise

Doesn’t this seem like a lot? It is not surprising that the preliminary reports and findings do not put beef at the top of this. However, it is still a protein.

NCBA staff in 2020 has been providing comments and recommendations to the committee that scientific evidence shows healthy diets including beef help maintain strength from infancy to the golden years.

I also find it interesting that Texas A&M Chancellor, John Sharp, just told Harvard University President Lawrence Bacow that Texas A&M’s research is driven by science and welcomes Harvard University to join them for a purely scientific approach to nutrition for the sake of public health and public trust, after attacks from Harvard that Texas A&M is aligned with big beef.

The Progressive Rancher

tyler

208.739.2891

colton

208.739.7089

MINERAL TUBS

• Highly Concentrated • Low Consumption • Low Cost to Feed • Consumption Guarantee HollowayLS@fmtcblue.com

MARCH 2020 13

OFFICE: 775-423-7760

Jack Payne Cell: 775-217-9273 • Alt: 775-225-8889 Cedarville - Archie Osborne 775-397-3645 Southern Nevada - Cole Reber 702-232-7351 Carey Hawkins 208-724-6712 | Frank Norcutt 775-223-7390

Full-Service Cattle Sales & Marketing - Serving Fallon, Nevada and the Outlying Areas.

UPCOMING SALES March 19, 2020 Special Feeder Sale

April 15, 2020

Feeder Sale W/Regular Wednesday Sale

May 7, 2020

Special Pair And Bred Cow Sale Go to www.dvauction.com where you can view our auctions live! This service is being brought to you by Nevada Livestock Marketing, LLC so that our customers can view their cattle, and so that buyers who can’t make it to the sale can still bid on cattle, creating more competition on your livestock.

146 different consignors sold an average of 25 head each totaling 3720 head at the February 20th Special Feeder Sale. Cattle were consigned from Idaho, Oregon, Utah, and California. Cattle went to 44 different buyers in Nebraska, Idaho, Oregon, Utah, Montana, Colorado, California, Iowa, Nevada, and Wyoming. We had registered bidders out of Texas on DV auction, but they said the cattle were too high. Sorry Texas! Another Special Feeder Sale on March 19th and that will be the last big ‘Hoorah’ until fall with the exception of the Pair and Bred Cow Sale on Thursday, May 7th.

This being an election year I’m sure the hedge fund guys will use the volatility of uncertainty to drive the Futures Market down all they can this summer and fall. If I wasn’t such an optimist I wouldn’t be in this business, and my optimism often slaps me square in the face! But I’m stepping out and making a bold prediction that Trump is going to win in a landslide. When he does, the Futures will skyrocket as four more years of a booming economy and fair trade deals have to help beef consumption. So it may not be the worst idea in the world to skip marketing your cattle on the summer videos and wait until after November to sell. Most ranchers are very traditional and don’t like to do things different than they’ve done in the past, but this may be a different year than normal. I still have enough faith in our fellow Americans not to elect a socialist, and if they do it isn’t going to matter what your cattle bring on a summer video anyway, because the buyer most likely will find a way out of the contract.

14 MARCH 2020

Type STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR

# Head Desc 11 BLK 14 BLK 9 RD 10 RD 29 BLK 16 BLK 3 BLK 8 BLK 8 BLK 6 BLK 1 BLK 1 BLK 1 BLK 2 BLK 3 BLK 3 BLK 11 BLK 12 MIX 4 BLK 13 MIX 2 BLK 6 BLK 3 BLK 5 BLK 9 MIX 4 MIX 9 MIX 1 BLK 2 BLK 8 BLK 1 RD 13 MIX 8 MIX 9 MIX 17 CHAR 3 MIX 9 MIX 10 BLK 19 BLK 14 CHAR 15 BLK 23 BLK 13 MIX 15 BLK 10 BLK 3 BLK 7 BLK 5 BLK 1 BLK 2 MIX 2 BLK 3 MIX 8 BLK 15 BLK 15 BLK 30 BLK 4 BLK 7 MIX

The Progressive Rancher

Weight Price CWT

Location

Name

299 400 450 541 357 404 398 403 456 584 403 456 584 348 437 538 314 413 398 410 408 607 432 420 326 418 466 375 375 448 375 463 568 478 465 505 438 490 543 609 491 586 363 514 730 447 459 423 393 752 470 465 506 551 553 618 429 534

Marys River Ranch Marys River Ranch Marys River Ranch Marys River Ranch Mathews Farms Mathews Farms Clay Stremler Thompson Thompson Thompson Kenni Brock Kenni Brock Kenni Brock Puggy LLC Puggy LLC Puggy LLC Heston & Ashley Johns Heston & Ashley Johns Clint Felton Stuart & Janine Avery John Espil John Espil Colvin & Son Corbari Ranch Flatnose Flatnose Todd & Josi Weagant Keegan Crutcher Brian Crutcher Richard Sanford Demar Dahl Jersey Valley Cattle Co. Jersey Valley Cattle Co. Deanna Porter Stone Cabin Ranch Kyle Kilby Alan & Mimi Mendes Lazy D Livestock Lazy D Livestock Lazy D Livestock Rock Springs Ranches Rock Springs Ranches Gene Heckman Roger & Nancy Johnson Roger & Nancy Johnson Eddie Laca Marshall Coverston Tyson & Emily Torvik Jackson Snow Jackson Snow Casey Kiel Rusty & Malinda Lefler Tory Pomi Richard Sanford S L Ranch S L Ranch Victor Guzman John & Vella Torvik

Deeth, NV Deeth, NV Deeth, NV Deeth, NV Panaca, NV Panaca, NV Fallon, NV Winnemucca, NV Winnemucca, NV Winnemucca, NV Winnemucca, NV Winnemucca, NV Winnemucca, NV Round Mountain, NV Round Mountain, NV Round Mountain, NV Wells, NV Wells, NV Fallon, NV Winnemucca, NV Gerlach, NV Gerlach, NV Dammeron Valley, UT Montello, NV Pioche, NV Pioche, NV Orovada, NV McDermitt, NV McDermitt, NV Fallon, NV Fallon, NV Fallon, NV Fallon, NV Orovada, NV Tonopah, NV Yerington, NV Reno, NV Pioche, NV Pioche, NV Pioche, NV Reno, NV Reno, NV Winnemucca, NV Winnemucca, NV Winnemucca, NV Fallon, NV Fallon, NV Fallon, NV Fallon, NV Fallon, NV Lovelock, NV Winnemucca, NV Fallon, NV Fallon, NV Alturas, CA Alturas, CA Schurz, NV Fallon, NV

$2.29 $2.11 $2.07 $1.79 $2.18 $2.08 $2.12 $2.11 $2.04 $1.64 $2.11 $2.04 $1.64 $2.11 $1.96 $1.81 $2.09 $2.07 $2.08 $2.06 $2.06 $1.58 $2.04 $2.04 $2.04 $1.94 $2.01 $2.01 $2.01 $2.00 $1.96 $1.95 $1.59 $1.94 $1.94 $1.93 $1.92 $1.91 $1.82 $1.57 $1.90 $1.67 $1.90 $1.88 $1.40 $1.88 $1.86 $1.85 $1.83 $1.34 $1.82 $1.80 $1.79 $1.78 $1.77 $1.60 $1.77 $1.71

www.progressiverancher.com

Type STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR B/C

# Head Desc 8 MIX 1 MIX 5 MIX 6 BLK 3 BLK 1 BLK 5 BLK 8 BLK 19 BLK 4 BLK 6 BLK 23 BLK 19 MIX 3 MIX 2 WF 1 MIX 5 BLK 17 MIX 23 MIX 7 MIX 1 MIX 9 RD 10 MIX 30 BLK 46 BLK 3 BLK 5 BLK 4 MIX 2 MIX 13 BLK 13 RD 1 BBF 2 MIX 13 MIX 2 MIX 6 BLK 1 MIX 3 CHAR 33 RD 3 BLK 3 MIX 3 BLK 4 MIX 1 BLK 47 MIX 58 MIX 3 MIX 9 BLK 11 SRT HRN 1 BLK 4 BBF 19 WF 8 BLK 1 RD 2 MIX 28 MIX 20 MIX 11 MIX 2 MIX 1 BLK 8 BLK 3 BLK 1 BLK 5 BLK 1 CHAR 1 BLK 1 RBF

Weight Price CWT

Location

Name

Type

553 553 531 572 445 415 563 598 710 568 559 591 752 585 405 455 601 704 831 613 613 607 595 522 420 605 571 496 615 654 643 580 510 578 313 533 690 682 669 667 415 712 649 590 700 788 700 751 625 557 765 766 714 650 752 803 885 838 838 495 853 687 685 857 515 875 575

Justin & Adrienne Snow Rostin Snow Thomas Vogues Stevenson Family Stevenson Family Jonathan Young Linda & Gene Bowmer James or Dean Cockrell James or Dean Cockrell Wiggin & Laffoon Donald Quintero J.J. Goicoechea J.J. Goicoechea Johns Dennis & Kathi Lee Emily Payne C & L Farm & Cattle C & L Farm & Cattle C & L Farm & Cattle Seven Dot Cattle Co. Pinson Ranch Matthew Torvik Douglas Avanzino William Gandolfo William Gandolfo Mori Ranches Blake Lambert Derek Sammaripa Derek Sammaripa Les & Norma Northcutt Les & Norma Northcutt Fred & Licia Rogne Boomer Ranches Judy Pichoff Russell Berg Shannon Williams Megan Stodieck-Melandow Vesco Ranch John & Vella Torvik Chris Rogne Travis Berg Flagg Ranch Tom Weddell Sheryl Lynn Hicks Jerry Sestanovich Jerry Sestanovich Jason Sestanovich Peggy & Patricia Harmon Norris Albaugh Christy Rae Hicks Genoa Livestock Genoa Livestock Nevada State Prison Gary Grimm Benton Snow RR Bass & Son Michael Laca Fred Stodieck Megan Stodieck-Melandow Chad Goings Bryson Masini Daniel Venturacci Jeff Goings Ginger Humphrey Grace Laca Peavey & Hoots Tony & Matthew Bill

Fallon, NV Fallon, NV Winnemucca, NV Cedarville, CA Cedarville, CA Round Mountain, NV Fallon, NV Lake City, CA Lake City, CA Chilcoot, CA Schurz, NV Eureka, NV Eureka, NV Wells, NV Fallon, NV Fallon, NV Enterprise, UT Enterprise, UT Enterprise, UT Golconda, NV Golconda, NV Fallon, NV Reno, NV Austin, NV Austin, NV Tuscarora, NV Winnemucca, NV Dayton, NV Dayton, NV Malin, OR Malin, OR Fallon, NV Fallon, NV Orovada, NV Round Mountain, NV Schurz, NV Minden, NV Winnemucca, NV Fallon, NV Fallon, NV Round Mountain, NV Montello, NV Fallon, NV Schurz, NV Eureka, NV Eureka, NV Eureka, NV Unionville, NV Fallon, NV Schurz, NV Minden, NV Minden, NV Las Vegas, NV Winnemucca, NV Fallon, NV Fallon, NV Fallon, NV Minden, NV Minden, NV Fallon, NV Yerington, NV Eureka, NV Fallon, NV Fallon, NV Fallon, NV Deeth, NV Austin, NV

HFR 11 HFR 11 HFR 18 HFR 41 HFR 128 HFR 6 HFR 1 HFR 10 HFR 7 HFR 9 HFR 1 HFR 4 HFR 12 HFR 5 HFR 6 HFR 34 HFR 11 HFR 9 HFR 3 HFR 7 HFR 2 HFR 16 HFR 11 HFR 4 HFR 19 HFR 22 HFR 4 HFR 6 HFR 7 HFR 3 HFR 1 HFR 6 HFR 6 HFR 1 HFR 6 HFR 2 HFR 2 HFR 13 HFR 10 HFR 9 HFR 19 HFR 1 HFR 8 HFR 11 HFR 1 HFR 9 HFR 1 HFR 6 HFR 11 HFR 7 HFR 26 HFR 3 HFR 2 HFR 8 HFR 7 HFR 6 HFR 26 HFR 23 HFR 4 HFR 21 HFR 14 HFR 16 HFR 17 HFR 1 HFR 3 HFR 1 Bred Cow 6

$1.69 $1.69 $1.69 $1.65 $1.55 $1.65 $1.64 $1.62 $1.46 $1.62 $1.62 $1.61 $1.38 $1.61 $1.61 $1.60 $1.59 $1.41 $1.30 $1.58 $1.58 $1.58 $1.58 $1.58 $1.58 $1.57 $1.57 $1.57 $1.45 $1.56 $1.45 $1.54 $1.53 $1.50 $1.50 $1.47 $1.44 $1.44 $1.44 $1.44 $1.44 $1.43 $1.43 $1.41 $1.40 $1.33 $1.40 $1.39 $1.39 $1.39 $1.38 $1.26 $1.38 $1.35 $1.34 $1.32 $1.31 $1.31 $1.31 $1.31 $1.30 $1.27 $1.27 $1.25 $1.20 $1.18 $1.31

www.progressiverancher.com

# Head Desc

Weight Price CWT

BLK 335 $1.95 MIX 335 $1.87 BLK 395 $1.86 BLK 450 $1.69 BLK 484 $1.63 BLK 360 $1.86 BLK 354 $1.86 BLK 354 $1.86 BLK 552 $1.52 BLK 490 $1.52 MIX 306 $1.84 BLK 411 $1.80 BLK 396 $1.80 MIX 376 $1.80 MIX 385 $1.77 CHAR 435 $1.71 BLK 420 $1.69 RD 439 $1.68 MIX 403 $1.67 MIX 523 $1.56 BLK 393 $1.67 MIX 378 $1.67 MIX 610 $1.40 MIX 358 $1.65 BLK 476 $1.62 BLK 561 $1.51 BLK 458 $1.60 MIX 520 $1.57 BLK 508 $1.56 BLK 418 $1.56 BLK 370 $1.56 BLK 529 $1.54 BLK 516 $1.54 RD 345 $1.53 BLK 547 $1.52 BLK 530 $1.52 BLK 405 $1.51 CHAR 397 $1.51 CHAR 474 $1.40 BLK 581 $1.50 RD 538 $1.50 BBF 435 $1.50 MIX 578 $1.47 MIX 601 $1.45 MIX 585 $1.45 MIX 585 $1.45 MIX 585 $1.45 BLK 483 $1.44 BLK 580 $1.40 MIX 657 $1.38 MIX 688 $1.37 MIX 688 $1.37 BLK 653 $1.37 BLK 648 $1.36 BLK 646 $1.36 BLK 729 $1.28 BLK 671 $1.35 MIX 710 $1.33 BLK 706 $1.31 MIX 760 $1.30 MIX 764 $1.29 MIX 768 $1.27 MIX 760 $1.27 RD 565 $1.26 WF 760 $1.22 BCHX 385 $1.13 BLK 1154 $1,140/H

The Progressive Rancher

Location

Name

Mathews Farms Heston & Ashley Johns Kenneth Buckingham Kenneth Buckingham Kenneth Buckingham Thompson Lydia Dempsey Jake & Lydia Dempsey Jake & Lydia Dempsey Jake & Lydia Dempsey Ft. McDermitt Stockman Makenzie Voges Stuart & Janine Avery Clay Stremler Darryl Crutcher Stone Cabin Ranch Colvin & Son Todd & Jody Weagant Michael McNinch Michael McNinch Leroy Hicks Gene Heckman Gene Heckman Tyson & Emily Torvik J.J. Goicoechea J.J. Goicoechea Corbari Ranch Kyle Kilby Wiggin & Laffoon Ernie Angeles Travis Berg Tory Pomi Nevada State Prison Ira Dempsey Randall Emm Casey Kiel Ken Edgmon William Gandolfo William Gandolfo James or Dean Cockrell John & Vella Torvik Rusty & Malinda Lefler Tom Weddell Lazy D Livestock Rambling River Ranch Justin & Adrienne Snow Benton Snow Judy Pichoff Bartell Ranch Jackson Family Jerry Sestanovich Jason Sestanovich Gary Grimm David Lima Clint Chambers Clint Chambers Calvin Sample C&L Farm & Cattle Mori Ranches RR Bass & Son Tom Moura Bryson Masini Fred Stodieck James Morgan Charles Venables Avery Laca Wachtel Family Trust

Panaca, NV Wells, NV Paradise Valley, NV Paradise Valley, NV Paradise Valley, NV Winnemucca, NV Winnemucca, NV Winnemucca, NV Winnemucca, NV Winnemucca, NV McDermitt, NV Winnemucca, NV Winnemucca, NV Fallon, NV McDermitt, NV Tonopah, NV Dammeron Valley, UT Orovada, NV Winnemucca, NV Winnemucca, NV Schurz, NV Winnemucca, NV Winnemucca, NV Fallon, NV Eureka, NV Eureka, NV Montello, NV Yerington, NV Chilcoot, CA Yerington, NV Round Mountain, NV Fallon, NV Las Vegas, NV Winnemucca, NV Schurz, NV Lovelock, NV Fallon, NV Austin, NV Austin, NV Lake City, CA Fallon, NV Winnemucca, NV Fallon, NV Pioche, NV Fallon, NV Fallon, NV Fallon, NV Orovada, NV Orovada, NV Gerlach, NV Eureka, NV Eureka, NV Winnemucca, NV Fallon, NV Fallon, NV Fallon, NV Lovelock, NV Enterprise, UT Tuscarora, NV Fallon, NV Lovelock, NV Yerington, NV Minden, NV Fallon, NV Smith, NV Fallon, NV Deeth, NV MARCH 2020 15

Jill Scofield, Director, Producer Relations 4231 Pacific Street, Suite 35 • Rocklin, CA 95677 e: jill@calbeef.org | w: www.calbeef.org p: 916.925.2333, ext. 12 | f: 916.824.1588 California-based Western Video Market (WVM) has been awarded the 2020 National Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) Award. The award winners were announced by the National Cattleman’s Beef Association, a contractor to the Beef Checkoff, during the 2020 Cattle Industry Convention held last week.

In addition to its sales broadcasts, WVM typically publishes an online catalog two weeks prior to its monthly sales. The catalogs contain information about each cattle lot, including whether the cattle are from a BQA certified producer, and links to accompanying video clips of the cattle.

The National BQA Awards annually recognize outstanding beef and dairy producers and marketers.

Winners not only demonstrate high-quality animal care and handling principles as part of their day-to-day operations, but express a strong desire to improve their operations through BQA. As good stewards of the cattle industry, a common trait among nominees is encouraging others to implement the producer education program.

Award categories include: Cow-Calf, Dairy, Feedyard, Educator, and Marketer, the category for which WVM was awarded.

Highlighting BQA certifications along with other quality assurance practices in its catalogs and auctions (including WVM’s own vaccination program which requires BQA certification) is a way for the company to encourage and educate producers about best management practices that buyers expect.

Community partnerships coordinator plans to enhance Extension engagement Sheila Bray joins Extension office in Clark County to work on outreach University of Nevada, Reno Extension is excited to welcome Sheila Bray to the Extension office in Clark County as the new community partnerships coordinator.

Bray will be working alongside external entities to enhance the presence of Extension services in Clark County. Her duties include organizing outreach efforts to inform the local community of the various educational resources and services that Extension provides, as well as working with the Nevada Legislature to increase awareness of Extension’s activity and impact in Clark County and beyond.

“WVM has taken the lead among a small number of large cattle marketing companies to actively recognize the value of BQA certification among their consignors,” said Dr. Jason Ahola, professor of beef production Bray has an extensive background in engagement and systems at Colorado State University’s (CSU) College of outreach for higher education in Nevada, having spent the past 10 years with the University of Nevada, Las Founded in 1989, WVM has been a proponent of BQA Agricultural Sciences.

Vegas. Her last position as the director of strategic programs and guidelines for nearly as long as BQA has engagement with UNLV’s College of Education included As BQA programs have grown in recognition throughout been around and encourages adoption of BQA practices key elements of increasing community engagement and the United States, WVM has seen that cattle sold by with its producers, buyers, and auction partners. During broadcast auctions where buyers are limited to seeing BQA certified producers are more likely to be sold at a the national profile of the college. She also served as a video of cattle, having a BQA certification shows that premium. The company shared 21 years of data from its member of the UNLV Community Engagement Council producers follow industry standards for high quality sales and catalogs with Dr. Ahola and Dr. Dan Mooney, and co-lead a task force for developing a guide to forming livestock economist at CSU. Ahola and Mooney studied community partnerships at UNLV. In her new position, animal handling and health care. the data to determine if lots of cattle with a mention she plans to apply her experience with operations of local “I can think of few other marketers, sales yards or about BQA in the description were sold at a premium government and higher education institutions to focus organizations that serve as industry leaders in the area compared to lots that didn’t mention the certification. and further advance Extension’s outreach. of promoting the value and importance of BQA to beef They concluded that a significant premium existed when producers as much as WVM,” said Jill Scofield, director buyers are provided information about the BQA status of “I’m excited to be with Extension because although it’s a new higher education realm for me, there is so much of producer relations and BQA coordinator with the the management of a cattle lot. potential for new engagement, especially for Clark California Beef Council.

For WVM, the ultimate goal in this research and in County,” Bray said. “I am looking forward to building WVM came to be when Ellington Peek and John continuing to highlight BQA is to share the benefits that efforts to showcase Extension’s impact on Nevadans.”

Rodgers, both veterans in livestock marketing, saw an becoming BQA certified can yield for producers beyond Going forward, Bray opportunity to provide customers indelete a new auction being ‘the right thing to do.’ plans to focus on format through nationally-available satellite broadcasts.

The company is now co-managed by Peek’s children, Brad “Usually if a producer is BQA certified, it means they’re how Extension can Peek and Callie Wood. Along with continuing to provide doing other things right,” said Holly Foster, WVM work with the local community and six annual sale broadcasts via satellite through Dish operations manager. government to ensure Network, the company streams 12 live auctions on the The BQA Marketer Award is funded in part by the they are well informed internet, hosting a sale approximately once per month.

Beef Checkoff with additional support from Cargill. about the types of Western Video Market (WVM) partners with 21 separate Award winners are selected by a committee comprised resources Extension auction yards and their representatives to market more of BQA certified representatives from universities, state can provide, as well than 300,000 head of cattle on annual basis on behalf of beef councils, sponsors and affiliated groups, who assess as seek their input on more than 850 consignors. With video sales, buyers can nominations based on their demonstrated commitment how Extension can view cattle from their office or home, and bid for cattle to BQA practices, their service as leaders in the beef continue to address lots by telephone or online. In addition, several in-person industry and their dedication to promoting the BQA community and state message to grow consumer confidence. needs. auctions are held each year.

For more on WVM and other 2020 BQA Award winners, visit www.bqa.org/about/bqa-awards.

16 MARCH 2020

The Progressive Rancher

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MARCH 2020 17

Strategies for Grazing Management

By Sherman Swanson and Dave Voth

The 2018 Nevada Rangeland Monitoring Handbook emphasizes that short-term or implementation monitoring should focus on the strategies planned or employed to accomplish resource objectives.

While the first edition of the Handbook in 1984 emphasized utilization to avoid overgrazing, the second and third editions in 2006 and 2018 introduce the grazing response index to consider a more robust list of grazing effects on rangeland plant growth. The index considers the frequency and intensity of grazing and opportunity for growth and regrowth. Frequency, intensity and opportunity all focus on the growing season and the combined score is intended to reflect the quality of grazing management in relation to the needs of plants to grow and thrive. Ranchers may strive for a positive score each year or for a positive average of scores across years.

As useful as the index may be for evaluating or considering the effects of grazing on perennial grasses, it may not be directly appropriate for describing all the strategies for grazing of shrubs or for other objectives that may be written into a grazing management plan. In addition to the factors considered by the index other strategies are not evaluated, such as mixing up the season of use from year to year, dual species grazing to spread the use among a greater variety of plant species, rotation of rest or 3 or more pastures in rest rotation, intense grazing to create or maintain fuel breaks (Figure 1), targeted grazing to address specific weed species, or using animal impact to plant seeds or enhance establishment of perennial seedlings.

While none of the index-inspired or other strategies is a cure-all, each could be used in specific settings to accomplish specific treatments or objectives.

Intensive grazing on selected sites can remove fuels and reduce the threat of wildfires.

Grazing Response Index-Inspired Strategies The greatest impact on index scores and plant growth will be achieved through shorter duration of grazing periods during the growing season in a given use area. A use area within a pasture is a significant area grazed differently from other areas within that pasture. A field or pasture can easily be looked at in terms of use areas, as opposed to considering the entire field, pasture or allotment. Short durations of use are especially important during fast plant growth and also result in longer recovery periods for plant growth and regrowth. Strategies for the grazing response index could be worded in a management plan as: 1) Graze any one area within the pasture or allotment for only a specified number of days within the growing season,

2) Graze for only a specified part or fraction of the growing season in any one year.

Dates for this could be specified for greater clarity, but would reduce flexibility. This would also lead to confusion or detail, depending on the number of different plant communities in the pasture and their differences in growth curve dates and shapes, 3) Graze during the dormant season (Figure 2),

4) Graze any one area only for specified weeks between March 1st and October 1st,

5) Graze for a specified level of utilization, stubble height, or residual dry matter during the growing season. The level could be adjusted by the season and the plant community, depending of the sensitivity of the plants at that time and their ability to recover in an average year, and

6) Either graze any one area within the pasture or allotment for only a specified number of days within the growing season, or move livestock to a new use area whenever utilization, stubble height or residual dry matter exceeds the specified levels.

fig 1

Cattle grazing rangelands during winter months while perennial grasses are dormant can be a very useful tool.

fig 2  18 MARCH 2020

The Progressive Rancher

www.progressiverancher.com

Mixing it Up Animals go to different places in a pasture depending on the season of use. They also eat different plants and plant parts. Plants grow different plant parts or emphasize different physiological processes during different periods of the growing season. So, mixing up the season of use among years in each pasture or use area enables plants to thrive. Strategies for this could be worded in a management plan as: 1) Do not graze any one use area at the same time as in the previous year,

2) Do not graze any one use area at the same stage in plant growth as in previous year, 3) Plan at least a specified number of calendar days between the grazing dates in sequential years, 4) After grazing an area, wait at least 12 months or more before grazing it again, and

6) Specify periods of use for each pasture in a three, four or five-pasture deferred pasture rotation grazing system.

Multiple Species of Grazers Dual-species grazing spreads the use among a greater variety of plant species. Most often, cattle in many places graze primarily grasses. However, animal preferences are always adjusted depending on what is available, as well as learned behaviors taught by their mothers, peers and experiences. Sheep and goats tend to prefer forbs (wildflowers) and shrubs. With their smaller mouths, they are able to select more nutritious parts of plants. They also have a reputation for use of steep terrain, and they are generally herded in rangeland settings. Herding can greatly modify the location of grazing and grazing distribution. Strategies related to dual-species grazing could be worded in a management plan as: 1) Which species are planned for grazing in which areas or seasons, and

2) The proportion of total animal unit months (AUMs) of forage to be allocated to each livestock species.

Rest and Recovery While rest is evaluated in the grazing response index as a plus four (+4), rotation of rest or rest rotation often appears like an oscillation between positive and negative index scores.

To plan a strategy around these rest-centered options, it may help to recognize that a tradeoff has been selected. While rest enables full recovery with adequate moisture, it also may favor cheatgrass, which gets a free ride for a year and may thrive with the extra litter. Rest during a drought provides less recovery. Also, grazing management plans that rely on rest are often stressful in other years due to longer seasons of use among fewer pastures. Strategies for rest and/or recovery could be worded in a management plan as:

1) Define a sequence for grazing three, four or five-pasture rest rotation grazing system, 2) Specify periods of use for each pasture in a three, four or five-pasture rest rotation grazing system, 3) Alternate years of grazing with years of no grazing or do not graze for an entire growing season at least one year in a specified number of years, 4) After grazing an area, wait at least 13 or more months before grazing it again, and

5) After grazing an area during the boot stage of perennial grass growth, wait until after an average precipitation year growing season, (or two below average precipitation growing seasons) before grazing it again during the growing season.

Grazing for Fuels Management Intense grazing to create or maintain fuel breaks is sometimes prescribed for some areas within a landscape. Since this is the strategy, and fire or mega-fires may be considered a greater risk, usual notions about grazing for plant health may or may not apply. While grazing for a limited level of utilization or even grazing for plant health may not be an issue in areas of annuals that have crossed an ecological threshold, the grazing period may matter a lot in areas with remaining perennial forage plants. It has been said that wet years or high-production years have led to much greater rangeland impacts through fire than impacts caused by grazing in drought years. It has also been observed that there is generally a year or more lag time between the abundant growth in a wet growing season and the period of high fire risk. www.progressiverancher.com

Strategies for managing fuels across broad rangelands or in specific areas could be worded in a management plan as: 1) Graze every pasture every year,

2) Graze for spatial variation of fine fuel levels or to break up fuel continuity with some pastures or use areas grazed more intensely,

3) After wet productive growing seasons, graze strategically to create fuel breaks in optimum locations, and 4) Graze for a specified % utilization on targeted species.

Targeted Grazing Targeted grazing has become a tool to address specific weed species, especially invasive weeds. This can be accomplished by using the natural forage selectivity of different kinds of livestock, for example sheep or goats eating forbs, and by timing the use period for periods when the targeted species of weed are likely to be relatively more palatable. Ideally, the weeds would be grazed during a time that prevents most seed production or spread of seeds by livestock. Concerns associated with targeted grazing could also be addressed as mechanisms for avoidance of a problem.

Strategies for this could be worded in a management plan as:

1) Use targeted grazing to reduce area of, or prevent spread of, specified weed species, 2) Spell out the prescription for the targeted grazing,

3) Target the grazing period before the time when weed seeds become ripe or when perennial forage plants become most vulnerable, the boot stage, 4) Target the grazing period for after weed seeds have dropped and perennial plants have gone dormant, and 5) See strategies for dual-species grazing above.

Grazing for Impact Animal impact can be used to crush vegetation, cover seeds or trample them into soil with animal fertilizer, or to remove thatch or litter impeding plant growth. Feeding livestock on lands for reclamation can add organic matter and nutrients. These steps can enhance establishment of rangeland seedings, especially on difficult soils that may lack organic matter or nutrients.

Strategies for this could be worded in a management plan as: 1) After seeding, feed weed-free hay on the seeded area,

2) Place salt and/or protein supplement in new locations each year,

3) Use stockmanship to develop herd effect by turning the herd over specific areas after seed ripe and

4) At least once in three years, graze intensely to remove more than a specified percent of thatch and litter.

Conclusion The strategies listed above, and others, can be adjusted, mixed and matched to achieve results important to the ranch, rangelands and stakeholders. The value of any strategy depends on the location, including the ecological site or disturbance response group, the state and phase of current vegetation and soils, the management context of relative priorities, opportunities for implementation, and how well they would lead toward SMART resource objectives.

SMART objectives are Specific (what is to change or not), Measurable (with standard monitoring methods), Achievable (given the site, state and planned management), Relevant (to the planned management), and Timely or Trackable (reflecting present local and broader scale priorities, and readiness for the desired response).

Strategies may change through time as monitoring reveals a need or opportunity or in a planned manner with a sequence of actions or treatments. Monitoring the implementation and success of strategies is essential to understand progress toward objectives and to adapt management when needed.

The Progressive Rancher

MARCH 2020 19 

ANIMAL HEALTH CHAPTER 4 | Youth BEEF QUALITY ASSURANCE Program Manual for the Pacific Northwest

by Cindy Kinder, University of Idaho Extention Full Manual: https://extension.usu.edu/cache/ files/Youth_Beef_Quality_Assurance.pdf

When a person is healthy, typically he or she is more alert, has a clearer mind, and more energy. A healthy animal is much the same. A healthy animal has an appetite, drinks more water, and gains weight more efficiently than a sick animal. For the livestock beef project, an animal that is healthy has a higher average daily gain and a lower feed cost per pound of gain.

A healthy beef animal is one that is up, eating, and drinking water. Signs of a healthy animal are eyes that are bright and alert. Its ears are “perked,” and they are listening. Its coat is shiny and its nose is moist. Symptoms of a healthy animal are a normal temperature, pulse, and respiration.

The standard temperature is 101.0°F. The pulse should be between 60 to 70 beats per minute, respiration rate between 10 to 30 breaths per minute.

Sick animals : A sick animal may show signs as a

humped back, droopy ears, snotty nose, dry crusty nose, matted, dry hair coat, scours (runny manure, some just loose but could be very watery: a variety of colors), slow moving, or lack of appetite. Symptoms may include an abnormal temperature, pulse, and/or respiration.

Keeping animals healthy: A beef project member with a market steer or beef breeding project can do several things to help ensure the animal stays healthy. Members can provide a consistent supply of feed to meet the animal’s nutritional needs, have shelter available, follow the biosecurity plan, and develop a herd health program with the necessary vaccinations. If the animal becomes sick, consult a veterinarian for the proper treatment.

Importance of reading labels: It is important to read label directions before administering any antibiotic or vaccine. Items that need to be specifically checked:

• Expiration date: do not use expired medications • Species: if the product is not labeled for use in cattle, do not use it unless it has been prescribed by a veterinarian with exact dosage amount and withdrawal time.

• Storage instructions: if refrigeration is required, make sure to keep medications in the refrigerator or cooler, except when in use.

• Use of product: if the animal is not suffering from the labeled illness, signs, symptoms, or disease, do not use it.

• Dosage: use the correct amount for treatment; make a note if a booster is required or how often it is to be given.

Note these dates on the calendar and in your records.

Giving more animal health product than recommended does not cure the animal faster, it just wastes medication and money, and it requires a longer withdrawal time.

• Placement of injection: this is very important as antibiotics and vaccines differ in how they are absorbed by the body to be the most effective.

• Withholding or withdrawal time: this is the length of time after giving the medication before residues are reduced to safe levels.

20 MARCH 2020

Prevention and treatments: Beef animals should be

treated for two reasons. One is to prevent a disease, and the other is to assist the animal to return to good health.

Various routes of administration for treatments (ways to give the injection) include: • Subcutaneous (sub-q): under the skin • Intramuscular (IM): in the muscle • Intravenous (IV): directly into the vein • Intranasal: into the nostril • Intramammary: directly into the teat • Orally: directly into the mouth • Topically: applied to the skin • Intraperitoneal: into the peritoneal cavity (right side) • Intrarumenal: into the rumen (left side)

1. Start by pulling the stopper back; put about two cc’s of air in the syringe to prevent a vacuum in the bottle.

2. Insert the needle into the med bottle, holding bottle upside down, and push the stopper in to add the air.

3. Pull back on the stopper slowly to draw in the medication. After removing the proper amount of vaccine plus a little more, withdraw the needle from the bottle.

4. Tap the sides of the syringe to move any air bubbles to the top closest to the needle. Carefully push the plunger forward, squeezing all air out through the needle.

5. Check to see that you have the proper dosage.

Restrain the animal: Properly restrain the animal before injecting to ensure the safety of the animal, the person giving the shot, and that the injection is given properly and with the complete dose.

Where to inject: Injections given in the wrong place or site affect the final beef product. Injection-site blemishes are called parasites. Beef projects are susceptible to both affect meat tenderness as much as 3 to 4 inches away internal and external parasites. Animals infested with from the injection site. Abscesses can form and must be parasites have reduced weight gain and reduced feed trimmed away on carcasses, adding up to pounds of meat conversion. External parasites include flies, lice, and grubs. lost.

Injections should be given in the neck region rather Internal parasites are worms that live in various sections than shoulder or hip regions, in front of the shoulder of the digestive tract or in other organs. Parasites can be bone, to avoid affecting the high-priced meat cuts. controlled utilizing topical, oral, or injectable solutions.

Consult a veterinarian to treat your animal.

Parasites: Organisms that live off of another animal

Injections: Injections are commonly given to beef

animals. Administering them correctly is important to providing a safe wholesome product. Injections given improperly have an effect on the final product as discussed in Chapter 6 Beef Carcass Quality. (See page 40 of this magazine.)

The first step in properly giving an injection is to read the label. The second is to select the proper application equipment. Injectable vaccines and antibiotics differ in their consistency (thickness). This determines what gauge of needle needs to be used. If the directions indicate sub-q or IV or IM, select the appropriate needle based on the information in Table 1 below.

You’ll find a number of syringes for use on the market at your local farm store. Select one that is clean, holds the correct dosage, and is easy to handle.

Table 1: Needle Selection Select the proper needle for injections based on product consistency (thickness) and whether directions indicate sub-q (under the skin), IV (directly into a vein) or IM (into the muscle - usually in the beef animal’s neck).

Route of Treatment: Needle Length:

Sub-q ½" to ¾"

IV

IM

1 ½" 1 to 1 ½"

Product Consistency: Thin: 16 to 18 gauge 16 gauge 16 to 18 gauge Thick: 14 to 16 gauge 14 to 16 gauge 16 gauge Filling the syringe: Filling the syringe is the next step in giving an injection. It is important that this is done correctly to prevent air bubbles. Air bubbles within the syringe cause the dosage to be inaccurate. If giving an IV injection, an air bubble injects air directly into the blood stream, which is damaging to the animal. To fill the syringe: The Progressive Rancher

Observe the animal: Once the treatment has been

completed, observe the animal for any reactions to the medication. These reactions can be the animal returning to good health or a negative reaction to the medication.

Syringe, needle care: Properly clean the syringe and

needles after use. Most needles should only be used a few times. Check the needle to make sure it is not bent, dirty, or burred. Discard the needle if those problems are found.

Beef quality standards suggest replacing the needle every ten animals when doing ordinary group vaccinating.

Syringe, needle cleaning: When cleaning the syringe and needle, it is best to use hot water and soap. Do not use a chemical disinfectant as it will kill the next modified live vaccine used in the syringe and irritate the tissue of the animal. When treating animals with a vaccine, it is important to follow a biosecurity plan to prevent the spread of illness or disease.

Summary: A healthy beef animal is a joy to own and

economical to produce. To insure health, there will be a time when the animal will need some type of treatment or injection. Done properly, it will not affect the product quality. Remember to read the label, administer properly, adhere to withdrawal times, and keep accurate records. www.progressiverancher.com

NRRC Accepting Proposals and Setting Priorities at Meeting The Nevada Rangeland Resource Commission (NRRC) will hold their annual meeting on March 31, 2020 in Winnemucca to set their budget priorities for the upcoming year. They will listen to proposals relating to projects on marketing, advertising, and/or communication of public land ranching.

The application for funding includes a brief description, a proposed budget, timeline, and who the targeted audience will be. The applications for funding are available on the NRRC’s website and are due by March 20, 2020.

The NRRC is governed by a commission of nine voting members nominated through each of the grazing boards, Nevada Cattlemen’s Association, Nevada Woolgrowers and the Farm Bureau, then appointed by the Governor.

The NRRC has one part-time staff person.

If you would like to make a proposal, e-mail us for an application for funding at NRRC08@yahoo.com or get it from our website at www.nevadarangelands.org.

New Scholarship Fund Established with the Nevada Agricultural Foundation The Nevada Agricultural Foundation (NAF) has received funds to establish the Kent McAdoo Legacy Scholarship Endowment. Kent was a respected Extension Specialist dedicated to the stewardship of natural resources in the state of Nevada and beyond.

He unexpectedly passed away in early 2018. At the time of Kent’s passing his family asked that donations be directed to benefit the education of Nevada students.

Numerous donations were received and have now been forwarded to NAF as a component of their Educational Assistance Award (Scholarship) program.

Awards from the Kent McAdoo Legacy Scholarship Endowment will be made for education of Nevada High School graduates pursuing a college degree with an emphasis in wildlife, fisheries, range, reclamation, natural resources or agricultural sciences. This fund will add to the amount available to new and current college students through the NAF program which currently provides over $60,000 each year to assist students in achieving their educational goals.

Founded in 1976, the NAF is one of the most stable and enduring non-profit organizations in Nevada, and one of a very small number devoted to agriculture in the state. NAF has supported agriculture students seeking a degree in an agricultural field, funded research projects significant to Nevada agriculture and contributed to agriculturally related programs throughout the state.

The NAF is honored to have been selected to administer the Kent McAdoo Legacy Scholarship Endowment and appreciates the opportunity to expand its scholarship program. Additional donations to this scholarship fund or others are always welcome and can be sent to the Nevada Agricultural Foundation.

Applications for all NAF Educational Assistance Awards are available at: www.nevadaagriculturalfoundation.org and applications are due by March 15, 2020.

Contact: Sue Hoffman | sue@nvagfoundation.org 775.673-2468 | NAF PO Box 8089 Reno, NV 89507

Special Feeder Sales

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For info about our Team Roping, please visit FallonLivestock.com www.progressiverancher.com

The Progressive Rancher

MARCH 2020 21

NN evada Farm BF ureau evada arm

Bureau

Transforming The System of Decision-Making by Federal Agencies

By Doug Busselman, Executive Vice President As this article is being written, the intentions of changing regulations there are a couple of significant and looking for input. opportunities for participating citizens to offer their input on how These specific topics included: federal agencies go about making • Requesting input on responding decisions. with regulations to address the Government Accountability One of the actions involves livestock grazing on Bureau of Land Offices’ issue of BLM dealing Management (BLM) lands, outside with “Unauthorized Grazing of Alaska. The other, contemplates – Actions Needed To Improve the overall federal government Tracking and Deterrence apparatus for the decision framework Efforts” that operates under the federal law – the National Environmental Policy • Updating and modernizing Act (NEPA). regulations including revision of definitions When you read this article, the initial stage of the BLM’s regulation • Improving permit efficiency rewriting process will likely be closed. The deadline for submitting • Changes to how BLM issues comments for the scoping process decisions on various matters was March 6, 2020. Along with the like crossing permits, temporary ability to submit written comments, nonrenewable permits and four regional meetings were held authorizing grazing to reduce around the West, including a session wildfire risk in Elko, NV (held on February 18).

• Promoting land health These sessions offered the ability to view posters which described • Public Participation the considerations sought for input and those who participated could Improved resource management of submit comment sheets to be used fine fuels (grasses) is a major theme in official process of determining of Nevada Farm Bureau’s comments relevant issues and alternatives to for the analysis that will be carried be examined in the Environmental out in the EIS document.

Impact Statement (EIS), which will Our organization’s policy maintains be second phase of the process. that expansion of livestock grazing Nevada Farm Bureau and others needs to be incorporated into have submitted written comments, grazing regulations, especially in seeking to respond to the outline situations where reduced fuel loads of the topics that BLM laid out the can be addressed through the use of Federal Register Notice, announcing livestock grazing.

22 MARCH 2020

At some point, having completed the necessary evaluation of the identified alternatives that the agency organizes, a draft EIS will be presented for public review and there will be another round of public input available. Following this next round of comments from those who wish to have their perspectives known, BLM will evaluate the comments and eventually offer a final EIS document and a Record of Decision.

in regulation form in 1978. After the last round of regulation changes there have been over 30 guidance documents issued, according to the January 10th Federal Register Notice.

Unlocking the potential of the private sector from stifling over-regulation, the Trump Administration is advancing this change in NEPA regulation to continue to protect the environment, but to improve the process that has allowed some NEPA Reform: to block infrastructure development Turning attention to the overall and tie government agency decisionNEPA reform project, this proposal making into litigation-based knots. is offered by the Council on Environmental Quality. Its proposed The Council on Environmental NEPA regulations were covered in a Quality has found that the average January 10, 2020 Federal Register length of an EIS is over 600 pages Notice. Public responses, in the form and the time for Federal agencies to of written comments, were given a conduct NEPA reviews is four and a March 10th deadline.The purpose half (4½) years. behind the proposal is reducing paperwork and delays as well as The proposed regulation changes would streamline the timeframe promoting better decisions. to a maximum of one year for an The NEPA system, which requires Environmental Assessment (EA) all federal agencies to go through and two years for an EIS. The page a formal decision making process counts would also be boiled down to before taking any action anticipated more workable and reasonable size… to have substantial impact on the 75 pages for an EA and 150 pages environment, took effect on January for an EIS. 1, 1970 following the passage of the National Environmental Policy Further enhancing the proposed Act of 1969. Thank you President process are the elements which widen Richard Nixon for signing this law the ability for Federal agencies to determine whether a NEPA process into effect… has to be carried out in the first place.

Guidelines regulations by the It also limits the realm of what can Council on Environmental Quality become the basis for a lawsuit, have been revised in 1973 and the restricting the litigation challenge to regulatory framework was updated only the Record of Decision.

The Progressive Rancher

www.progressiverancher.com

NN evada Farm BF ureau evada arm

Bureau Scholarship Opportunity

By Brittney Pericoli, Director of Communications

There Is No Silver Bullet:

The desired outcome of improved and timely Federal agency decisions is a huge hill to climb. While these two latest examples offer a reason for hope, reality recognizes that as long as we have the scope of Federal agencies engaged in so many areas of our every-day lives and we have to contend with the industry created and in place to prevent sound decisions from moving forward… progress will come slowly and after more and more cycles of litigation.

Elections will also have consequences, as they always do. Improvements made in one Administration for the purpose of reducing federal regulations hinge on whether there can be sustained terms in office for the incremental changes to come into effect. A change in who holds office in the White House could snap the pendulum back in the opposite direction and result in further devastating intrusion of over-bearing regulations and decision-making structures that are subject to needless roadblocks.

These two projects are just starting points that will require continued attention and further input. For those who have participated in submitting comments for either – or both – of the changes that we’ve covered here, thank you! Changes can only come from the emphasis and input that these public decision processes can generate. It has been welldocumented that those who show up are key in making differences happen.

www.progressiverancher.com

We are excited to announce this year’s Dave Fulstone Scholarship application is now open.

Applications are now being accepted through April 1, 2020.

Dave Fulstone II was a past president of the Nevada Farm Bureau who dedicated his life to the well-being of Nevada Agriculture. He was passionate in his support of a sustainable agriculture industry in Nevada and was never afraid to tackle the tough issues or face strong opponents in defense of the agriculture industry and producers. The scholarship committee desires to provide financial assistance to students who exemplify those characteristics.

The 2020 scholarship award is open to any student graduating from an accredited Nevada High School in 2020 and furthering their education in a course of study pertaining to agriculture.

Application procedure: Students wishing to apply for this scholarship should send the completed application along with a copy of their most current high school transcript and two (2) letters of recommendation to:

Dave Fulstone Scholarship Committee c/o Nevada Farm Bureau 2165 Green Vista Drive, Ste. 205 Sparks, Nevada 89431

The successful applicant of this award will be the student who best portrays the ability to be successful in their post-secondary education and exhibits the potential to give back to the agriculture industry and benefit agricultural producers by completing their course of study.

The Application and requirements can be found at www.nvfb.org/articles/fulstone-scholarship/

Fallon: 8-5:30 M-F Gardnerville: 8-5 M-F Snyders Pinenut Livestock Supply

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Well-trained staff help make the right decision for any size herd. Our Fallon & Gardnerville stores can ship next-day.

The Progressive Rancher

MARCH 2020 23

For the second year in a row American AgCredit issued a full 1% cash patronage distribution, resulting in a record $115.4 million cash back to our members for 2019.

It pays to be a member.

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 24 MARCH 2020

The Progressive Rancher

www.progressiverancher.com

UPCOMING SALE

Wednesday April 15 Visalia, CA

Catalog Deadline: Monday, March 30 WATCH & LISTEN TO THE SALE on the Web at:

For details call (530) 347-3793 or the representative nearest you: Gary Nolan

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Market your cattle with the professionals!

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The Progressive Rancher

MARCH 2020 25

Contact: Washington State UniversityWADDL 155N Bustad Hall Pullman, WA 99164-7034 waddl@vetmed.wsu.edu 509-335-9696

Diagnosis and Official Regulatory Testing for Bovine Trichomoniasis in Washington State Major highlights of bovine trichomoniasis testing • Bovine trichomoniasis is a disease that causes reduced reproductive performance in cattle herds.

• Bovine trichomoniasis is a disease regulated by the Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDAState Veterinarian).

• Control of trichomoniasis in cattle herds requires culling of infected carrier bulls.

• The required sample for "official" detection of trichomoniasis in bulls is a preputial scraping taken by an accredited veterinarian registered by the WSDA as proficient in the procedure.

• Detection of infected carrier bulls requires laboratory testing.

• The official laboratory test in the state of Washington for bovine trichomoniasis is the individual or pooled polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test • WSU-WADDL is an official testing laboratory for bovine trichomoniasis in the state of Washington.

• Samples for bovine trichomoniasis testing should be submitted to the laboratory on a " WADDL Trichomoniasis PCR Form" (found here: https://tinyurl.com/WADDLTrichPCRForm) and submitted in Trichomonas transport medium.

What's New? 1. Trichomonas testing by pooled PCR (up to 5 bulls from the same owner) now allowed by WSDA and available at WSU-WADDL (see #8, #10 and #12 as follows) 2. Two methods of sample collection and submission now allowed by WSDA and available at WSU-WADDL (see #8).

3. New easier handling Trichomonas test media tube container now available from BioMed Diagnostics Inc. (see # 8) 26 MARCH 2020

1. What is trichomoniasis?

Bovine venereal trichomoniasis is caused

by Tritrichomonas foetus, a flagellate protozoan parasite. T. foetus lives in the reproductive tracts of bulls and cows and has worldwide distribution.The widespread use of artificial insemination in many areas of the world has helped to reduce the prevalence. Trichomoniasis is still of importance in herds where artificial insemination is not used.

2. How is trichomoniasis transmitted?

Venereal transmission can occur from an infected bull to an uninfected cow (or heifer), or from an infected cow (or heifer) to an uninfected bull. Bulls are the main reservoir of the trichomoniasis, and bulls greater than 4 years of age tend to be long-term carriers. For this reason samples from bulls are preferred for diagnosing and controlling the disease in cattle herds.

3. What are the clinical signs in individual cattle?

Chronically infected bulls show no lesions or clinical disease. Infected bulls appear normal, breed normally, and can infect an entire herd through natural service. In the newly infected cow or heifer (in those never before infected with T. foetus), there is inflammation of the reproductive tract (vagina, cervix, uterus), which may result in a discharge from the vagina or, in severe cases, pyometra (uterus distended with pus and the cow’s inability to cycle). If the cow is pregnant, the infection results in placentitis (inflammation of the birth membranes) and causes early abortion (116 weeks of gestation).

Confirmation of trichomoniasis requires demonstration of T. foetus parasites by laboratory testing.

5. How do I get trichomoniasis out of my cattle herd or prevent trichomoniasis from entering my cattle herd?

Control of trichomoniasis in cattle herds requires identification of bulls infected with T. foetus by laboratory methods and removal of the infected bulls from the herd. Also, testing all purchased bulls for T. foetus before entering the herd will prevent introduction of trichomoniasis into your herd. Bulls become chronically infected with T. foetus, are long-term carriers and can serve as the source of trichomoniasis in cattle herds from one breeding season to the next. Cows with trichomoniasis spontaneously clear infection in 9095 days and are not a source of T. foetus infection from one breeding season to the next. There is no effective method for treating T. foetus-infected bulls. Infected bulls are generally culled from the herd and sold for slaughter.

6. What samples do I take for laboratory identification of trichomoniasis?

In bulls, preputial smegma (preputial scraping) is the optimal sample. In cows and heifers, T. foetus parasites are most reliably identified from placental fluids, placenta, stomach contents of aborted fetuses, uterine washings, pyometra discharge, or vaginal mucus. Herd-based diagnosis is most reliably made from preputial scrapings of bulls or vaginal scrapings/fluids from cows.

7. How are samples collected for laboratory identification of trichomoniasis?

Appropriate sample collection for accurate diagnosis of trichomoniasis is critical. In infected bulls, T. foetus parasites live deep in the preputial folds (microscopic crevices inside the prepuce) requiring a preputial scraping below the mucosal surface of the prepuce in order to reach the embedded parasites. The scraping is generally accomplished with an 4. How do I know if my cattle artificial insemination pipette (dry pipette herd has trichomoniasis? technique) or special soft metal brush.

A tentative diagnosis of trichomoniasis as For official regulatory testing, sampling a cause of reproductive failure in a herd is must be done by a veterinarian certified based upon clinical history (presence of and registered with the Washington State clinical signs in individual cows in a bull Department of Agriculture (WSDA) for bred herd), signs of early abortion, repeated trichomoniaisis sample collection. An returns to service, high percentage of online course on Trichomoniasis Testing unbred cows, and irregular estrus cycles. and a video of the collection technique The Progressive Rancher

in bulls is available at the web link below provided by the Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA) and WSU Veterinary Medicine Extension. http://vetextension.wsu.edu/bovine/trich/ 8. How should I store samples for trichomoniasis testing prior to shipping and how should they be shipped?

Samples submitted to WSU-WADDL should be collected into Trichomonas test media. Trichomonas test media is manufactured by Biomed Diagnostics, Inc. and is available directly from the company (Phone: 800-964-6466).

We prefer use of the TF transit tube (catalogue # 12-012-001 for a 10-pack or catalogue # 12-071-002 for a 50-pack).

The TF transit tubes are also available from MWI Veterinary Supply (Phone: 800-824-3703), Fisher Scientific (Phone: 800-766-7000), and other vendors. "In Pouch" TF media is still acceptable, but costs about $1.00 more for each (catalogue # 12-011-001 (10 pouches) or 12-011022 (100 pouches).

For a valid Official test, follow one of the following submission procedures; Method 1: Ship the samples overnight so that they arrive at the lab within 48 hours of collection. For this method ship samples at room temperature (no ice pack) Method 2: Incubate the samples at 37 degrees centigrade for 24 hours, then freeze the sample. For this method, ship with an ice pack at your convenience using an overnight courier.

Samples should be submitted on the WADDL Trichomoniasis PCR Accession Form. Please fill out the form completely and check either individual PCR or Pooled PCR as appropriate (see criteria for Pooled PCR testing below in #12).

9. Is specialized training required for sample collection for laboratory identification of trichomoniasis?

Yes. The Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA) and State Veterinarian require that veterinarians receive special training, certification and registration for collection of preputial samples from bulls. Only veterinarians registered with the WSDA can collect samples for official trichomoniasis testing in bulls. The WSDA Animal Services Division provides educational seminars to veterinarians on proper trichomoniasis www.progressiverancher.com

sampling and handling techniques. An online course on Trichomoniasis Testing and a video of the collection technique in bulls is available at the web link below provided by the Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA) and WSU Veterinary Medicine Extension. http://vetextension.wsu.edu/bovine/trich/ WSDA will recognize other states' official trichomoniasis collection protocols when veterinarians outside Washington State collect the samples.

10. What are the laboratory tests for trichomoniasis?

Official regulatory tests for trichomoniasis vary state to state but generally are restricted to culture or polymerase chain reaction (PCR) methods. PCR is accepted as the official test for trichomoniasis by the Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA). WSU-WADDL is the only Washington laboratory recognized by the State Veterinarian for official trichomoniasis testing and conducts testing using individual quantitative PCR (qPCR) or pooled quantitative PCR. For pooled PCR testing submit individual preputial scraping samples in TF media (as described in #8 above) and samples will be pooled in the laboratory (DO NOT POOL SAMPLES IN THE FIELD PRIOR TO SUBMISSION).

Any positive pooled PCR samples require followup testing of individual samples within the positive pool in order to identify the positive individual bull(s).

The current cost of Trichomonas testing

by PCR is listed in the current WADDL website, under the "Tests & Fees" section.

11. What are the Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA) regulations regarding trichomoniasis?

Because bulls with trichomoniasis do not show clinical signs of infection and because trichomoniasis can cause economic losses to Washington cattle herds through significant reproductive failure, the WSDA and State Veterinarian require all breeding bulls entering the state of Washington be shown free of trichomoniasis. The bovine trichomoniasis requirements are published in Washington Administrative Code (WAC) document #16-54-086, “Bovine Trichomoniasis Requirements”. The latest version of the requirement should be consulted and is available on the WSDA website at https://apps.leg.wa.gov/wac/ default.aspx?cite=16-54-086 www.progressiverancher.com

Some brief highlights of the WAC Bovine Trichomoniasis Requirements are listed below.

Bulls (except Bison) may be imported into the state of Washington if they meet the following requirements: 1. If the bulls originate from a herd where one or more bulls or cows have been found infected with bovine trichomoniasis within the past twelve months, the bulls must have two negative qPCR tests one week apart. The samples for each test must be collected within thirty days before cattle are imported into Washington state, and an import permit must be obtained from the director and include a certifying statement that the bulls originated from an infected herd.

2. Virgin bulls are exempt from bovine trichomoniasis test requirements. If sold, virgin bulls must be officially identified and accompanied by a certificate signed by the owner or the owner's designee that they have had no breeding contact with female cattle.

3.

Registered veterinarians shall only utilize official laboratories recognized by the state veterinarian for testing of trichomoniasis samples.

4. Polymerase chain reaction is accepted as an official test when completed by a qualified laboratory approved by the director and when shipped and received by laboratory by the two methods described in #8 above.

12. What are the WSDA requirements for pooled PCR testing?

WSDA has had Trich regulations since 2008. Testing protocol advancements since the implementation of the regulations has allowed WSDA to revisit the issue of pooling with low risk situations or for non-regulatory purposes. This action still complies with the Trich import regulations for import in WAC 16-54-086.

The criteria where pooling of up to 5 bulls will be allowed are: 1. Bulls that are over 18 months old cannot be exempted as virgin bulls, and have had no breeding contact with females.

2.

Bulls originate from a herd where there is no history of trichomoniasis infection, and are part of a single herd, not assembled cattle.

3.

As part of a disease investigation, pooling may be allowed if the herd does not have a history of infection or in the judgment of the herd veterinarian Trichomoniasis infection is unlikely.

13. Pooling will NOT be allowed for: 1. Multiple owners for a single pool. This effectively eliminates pooling as an option at livestock markets.

2. Infected herds or herds with a history of infection within the past 12 months.

IM P ORTA N T .

3.

Some states will not accept pooled samples for importation testing into their state. Check the state of destination requirements before requesting pooled samples.

Changes Made to Utah’s Trich Law C. Kim Chapman, Area Animal Scientist USU Extension UBIA Technical Advisor The Utah Department of Agriculture and Food has announced changes to increase the effectiveness of the test for the Tritrichomonas foetus organism, more commonly known as “Trich”.

The most sweeping change in the new rule is that veterinarians will no longer visually examine trich samples to detect the organism. Instead, samples will be frozen after incubation and sent to the Utah Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory adjacent to Utah State University in Logan for testing utilizing a Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test to detect the presence of T. foetus by looking for its DNA fingerprint. This method is significantly more precise than visual detection and will eliminate the hazards of “false positives” in that it is calibrated to detect only the T. foetus DNA. Two other changes were also made in the new rule. First, relative to virgin bulls, the minimum age to test bulls for the first time was moved from testing at nine months of age to testing at 12 months of age.

The other significant change simply reiterates that bulls being transported into Utah from out of state will also need to be tested using the PCR test to be recognized as Trich free. Utah will recognize other states tests only if they meet the same standard as that used in Utah which means testing negative for T. foetus via the PCR testing regiment.

These changes resulted from the fact that initial testing in the state saw rapid reductions in bulls testing positive for the organism. However, for the past several years, a plateau has been seen in the number of positive bulls. In order to seek eradication from this chronic disease plateau, a more precise test protocol had to be developed. Adoption of the PCR test was adopted following a scientific study wherein paired samples from several hundred slaughter bulls were examined visually and by PCR. Several additional bulls were detected as carriers of the disease via the PCR protocol vs. the visual examination method.

Producers who have questions regarding the new Trich rule can contact Dr. Bruce King, Utah State Veterinarian with the Utah Department of Agriculture and Food at 801-538-4910, or Dr. Kerry Rood, Utah State University Extension Veterinarian, at 435-797-1882.

The Progressive Rancher

MARCH 2020 27

RANGE PLANTS FOR THE RANCHER REED CANARYGRASS

By Paul T. Tueller, Ph.D., CRMC Phalaris arundinacea is a tall bunchgrass commonly called Reed Canarygrass. This species generally grows in large stands on floodplains and the banks of rivers and streams, the shores of lakes and in other open wetland habitats. I have described few wetland plants. This does not indicate the relative importance of these plants. It is important to be acquainted with many wetland species because the riparian areas are of great importance in the dry environment of the Great Basin. According to Jerry Tiehm, Curator of the University of Nevada Herbarium approximately 3,600 species of higher plants occur in Nevada and of those some 30 to 40 percent live in wetland and stream environments.

This species is widely distributed in Europe, Asia, northern Africa and North America. Reed Canarygrass is likely to have been introduced from Eurasia, as were many of our weedy grasses. It was considered to be a good forage plant in Sweden as early as 1749, it has been used for pasture, silage, and hay as well as filtration for water pollution control.

They are most common in low elevation wetlands, wet ditches, along roadsides, and in river floodplains disturbed by past grazing or soil movement. They prefer seasonally or continually wet habitats and do not survive in dry uplands. However they can tolerate prolonged periods of drought. They grow in saturated or nearly saturated soils but not where standing water persists for extended periods of time.

While they do not originally establish in areas inundated with water, they can tolerate periods of inundation once established.

28 MARCH 2020

Reed Canarygrass is an invasive species in wetlands, particularly in disturbed areas. It has been reported as an invasive weed in floodplains, riverside meadows, and other wetland habitat types around the world.

It alters the entire ecosystem and once established it is difficult to eradicate. The rhizomes often form a thick sod layer, which can exclude all other species.

A few native wetland plants are able to survive Reed Canarygrass infestations such as Eleocharis spp, Typha latifolia, and some species of Carex.

Reed Canarygrass is a cool-season, rhizomatous plant.

It’s creeping rhizomes often form a thick sod layer, which can exclude all other plants. It’s upright stems grow to 2 meters (6 feet) tall from the rhizomes. And the leaf blades measure up to 15 cm (10 inches) long by 2 cm wide (1/4 to 1/3 inches) wide. The plant has open sheaths, hollow stems, small clasping auricles and conspicuous membranous ligules. The panicles (inflorescences) are compact and resemble spikes when immature, but become open and slightly spreading at anthesis. Glumes are as long or longer than all of the florets. The glumes have no awns.

When in full bloom the inflorescences change in color from pale green to dark purplish, becoming straw colored when fruits have developed and dispersed.

There is some debate as to whether this species is truly native to the mountain west. Herbarium specimens have been collected prior to 1900 and the plant is native to some river systems in Montana, Idaho, Nevada and Wyoming. Agronomic plantings began as early as 1918 for pasture and erosion control. Some European cultivars were specifically bred for high rates of growth,

The Progressive Rancher

vigor, and adaptability to a range of environmental conditions. Plants reproduce both vegetatively and by their rhizomes and rhizome fragments, as well as sexually by its abundantly produced seed. Each inflorescence can produce approximately 600 seeds although successful establishment from seeds is low.

Most plants and recurring populations are likely from rhizomes. Dead stems and leaves can form a sod layer measuring over 0.5 meters thick. The culms are very tall and individual leaves grow from nodes along the culm. The leaves of the lower culm become light deprived as the plant grows and are replaced with new leaves higher up the culm. If the stand is cut, new leaves will sprout from either rhizomes or from exposed nodes on the shortened culm.

Reed Canarygrass is primarily adapted for permanent hay or pasture on sites too wet for good performance of other wetland forage plants. The forage should be grazed or mowed prior to heading as both quality and palatability decline rapidly after heading. Recovery following defoliation is excellent in the spring and early summer and is fair to good in late summer and early fall. However, it is frost-sensitive and will turn brown quickly with early fall frosts. Highest yield is obtained when harvested at heading although highest quality is obtained before seed heads begin to appear and declines rapidly thereafter Regrowth after harvesting reed canarygrass will be leafy with stem elongation but no seed heads will be produced. The seed is often used for birdseed. Forage value it is good to fair for livestock, provides good hay if cut prior to maturity, fair for wildlife, and provides important nesting cover for waterfowl.

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The Progressive Rancher

MARCH 2020 29

SALT TOLERANT AND DROUGHT-HARDY VARIETIES AVAILABLE

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Dryland & Reclamation Seed Wheatgrasses Nordan Crested New Hy/Saltlander Bluebunch Hycrest Crested Siberian Wheatgrass Oahe Intermediate Pubescent Indian Ricegrass Big Sagebrush Forage Kochia

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From the latest episode of BCI Cattle Chat Podcast . . .

Scours Treatment Protocol Veterinarian Mike Apley joins Bob Larson, Brad White and Dustin Pendell on the podcast to discuss treatment options for sick calves and when antibiotics might be needed. Listen in to hear the signs to watch for and the best protocol to follow for success.

Building a Treatment Plan As with most things in life, preparation is always a good strategy.

This is especially true when it comes to anticipating a disease outbreak. Tune in to hear advice from the Beef Cattle Institute experts on how to build a treatment plan and address concerns about antibiotic resistance.

Welcome to BCI Cattle Chat! Listen here: https://ksubci.org/2020/02/21/dustin-questions-antibiotic-use-withscours-antibiotic-use-with-respiratory-disease-protocol-for-treatmenttips-for-building-a-treatment-protocol-future-of-antibiotics/ 1:15 4:15 10:30 15:05 119:51 20:30

Dustin Questions Antibiotic Use with Scours Antibiotic Use with Respiratory Disease Protocol for Treatment Tips for Building a Treatment Protocol Future of Antibiotics

For more on BCI Cattle Chat, follow us on Twitter @The_BCI, and check out our website, ksubci.org.

If you have any comments, questions or topic ideas, please send them to bci@ksu.edu.

BCI RESEARCH UPDATE:

Feedlot Death Loss by Gender This month, BCI analytics looks at all causes of feedlot cattle deaths by gender. To the left is a graph showing the percent death loss from 25 feedyards in the High Plains, representing approximately 3.5M cattle on feed. Death loss for most of the year is higher for heifers when compared to steers; however, this trend briefly switched in November 2019, before coming back together in December.

Explore this simple dataset a little further: look at how January 2020 compared to the previous year (see below). Large, interactive versions of the graphs can be found at: bcidata.org/update.

2019 (above) Dataset represents lots of cattle from approximately 25 feedyards in the High Plains representing approximately 3.5M head. Each data point represents the mean cumulative death loss for lots that were active at the end of each month. Lots of cattle may be represented in more than one month.

Janaury 2020 (at right) 10 Feedyards from 5 states representing ~350,000 head. Each data point represents the mean cumulative death loss for lots that were active on the last day of the month.

Lots of cattle may be represented in more than one month.

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The Progressive Rancher

MARCH 2020 31 

EPD and $Value Definitions – How to Read the Report Each bull listed in this report is comparable to every other bull in the database. The analysis takes into account only the differences expressed in each herd in which the bulls were used. For example, bull A has a weaning EPD of +30 lb. and bull B has a weaning EPD of +20 lb. If you randomly mate these bulls in your herd, you could expect bull A's calves to weigh, on average, 10 lb. more at weaning than bull B's progeny (30 - 20 = 10).

Expected Progeny Difference (EPD) , is the prediction of how future progeny of each animal are expected to perform relative to the progeny of other animals listed in the database. EPDs are expressed in units of measure for the trait, plus or minus. Interim EPDs may appear on young animals when their performance has yet to be incorporated into the American Angus Association National Cattle Evaluation (NCE) procedures.

This EPD will be preceded by an "I", and may or may not include the animal's own performance record for a particular trait, depending on its availability, appropriate contemporary grouping, or data edits needed for NCE. EPDs are enhanced by genomic results generated by:

$Value Index ($Value), an economic selection index allows multiple change in several different traits at once pertaining to a specific breeding objective. The $Value is an estimate of how future progeny of each sire are expected to perform, on average, compared to progeny of other sires if the sires were randomly mated to cows and if calves were exposed to the same environment.

• EPDs • Interim EPDs • $Values

Accuracy (ACC), is the reliability that can be placed on the EPD. An accuracy of close to 1.0 indicates higher reliability. Accuracy is impacted by the number of progeny and ancestral records included in the analysis.

Interim EPDs: www.angus.org/Nce/InterimEPDs.aspx Genomic Enhanced EPDs: www.angus.org/AGI/GenomicEnhancedEPDs.pdf

$VALUE INDEXES $Value indexes, an economic selection index allows multiple change in several different traits at once pertaining to a specific breeding objective. The $Value is an estimate of how future progeny of each sire are expected to perform, on average, compared to progeny of other sires if the sires were randomly mated to cows and if calves were exposed to the same environment. For more detailed information, visit: www.angus.org/Nce/ValueIndexes.aspx Maternal Weaned Calf Value ($M) , an index, expressed in dollars per head, predicts profitability differences from conception to weaning with the underlying breeding objective assuming that individuals retain their own replacement females within herd and sell the rest of the cull female and all male progeny as feeder calves. The model assumes commercial producers will replace 25% of their breeding females in the first generation and 20% of their breeding females in each subsequent generation. Traits included are as follows: calving ease direct, calving ease maternal, weaning weight, milk, heifer pregnancy, docility, mature cow weight, claw set and foot angle.

Weaned Calf Value ($W), an index, expressed in dollars per head, to predict profitability differences in progeny due to genetics from birth to weaning. The underlying objective being producers will retain 20% of the female progeny as replacements and sell the rest of the cull females and their male counterparts as feeder calves. Traits included are as follows (in no particular order): birth weight, weaning weight, milk, and mature cow weight.

Feedlot Value ($F), an index, expressed in dollars per head, to predict profitability differences in progeny due to genetics for postweaning feedlot merit compared to 32 MARCH 2020

the progeny of other sires. The underlying objective assumes producers will retain ownership of cattle through the feedlot phase and sell fed cattle on a carcass weight basis, but with no consideration of premiums or discounts for quality and yield grade. Traits contributing directly to the index are as follows: yearling weight (gain), carcass weight and feed efficiency.

Grid Value ($G), an index, expressed in dollars per carcass, to predict profitability differences in progeny due to genetics for carcass grid merit compared to progeny of other sires. The underlying objective assumes producers will market cattle on an above-industry-average carcass grid. Traits included in the index are as follows (in no particular order): carcass weight, marbling, ribeye area, and fat Beef Value ($B), a terminal index, expressed in dollars per carcass, to predict profitability differences in progeny due to genetics for postweaning and carcass traits. This terminal index assumes commercial producers wean all male and female progeny, retain ownership of these animals through the feedlot phase and market these animals on a carcass grid. Traits included in the index are as follows: yearling weight, dry-matter intake, marbling, carcass weight, ribeye area and fat.

COMBINED $VALUE INDEX For more info on Combined Value ($C) including $C breed averages and percent rankings, visit: www.angus.org/Nce/documents/CombinedValueIndex.pdf

The Progressive Rancher

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PRODUCTION EPDs

MATERNAL EPDs

Calving Ease Direct (CED), is expressed as a difference in percentage of unassisted births, with a higher value indicating greater calving ease in firstcalf heifers. It predicts the average difference in ease with which a sire's calves will be born when he is bred to first-calf heifers.

Heifer Pregnancy (HP), is a selection tool to increase the probability or chance of a sire's daughters becoming pregnant as first-calf heifers during a normal breeding season. A higher EPD is the more favorable direction and the EPD is reported in percentage units.

Birth Weight EPD (BW), expressed in pounds, is a predictor of a sire's ability to transmit birth weight to his progeny compared to that of other sires.

Calving Ease Maternal (CEM), is expressed as a difference in percentage of unassisted births with a higher value indicating greater calving ease in firstcalf daughters. It predicts the average ease with which a sire's daughters will calve as first-calf heifers when compared to daughters of other sires.

Weaning Weight EPD (WW), expressed in pounds, is a predictor of a sire's ability to transmit weaning growth to his progeny compared to that of other sires.

Yearling Weight EPD (YW), expressed in pounds, is a predictor of a sire's ability to transmit yearling growth to his progeny compared to that of other sires.

Residual Average Daily Gain (RADG), expressed in pounds per day, is a predictor of a sire’s genetic ability for postweaning gain in future progeny compared to that of other sires, given a constant amount of feed consumed.

Dry Matter Intake (DMI), expressed in pounds per day, is a predictor of difference transmitting ability for feed intake during the postweaning phase, compared to that of other sires.

Yearling Height EPD (YH), is a predictor of a sire's ability to transmit yearling height, expressed in inches, compared to that of other sires.

Scrotal Circumference EPD (SC), expressed in centimeters, is a predictor of the difference in transmitting ability for scrotal size compared to that of other sires.

Docility (Doc), is expressed as a difference in yearling cattle temperament, with a higher value indicating more favorable docility. It predicts the average difference of progeny from a sire in comparison with another sire’s calves. In herds where temperament problems are not an issue, this expected difference would not be realized.

Maternal Milk EPD (Milk), is a predictor of a sire's genetic merit for milk and mothering ability as expressed in his daughters compared to daughters of other sires. In other words, it is that part of a calf's weaning weight attributed to milk and mothering ability.

Herds (MkH) indicate the number of herds from which daughters are reported.

Daughters (MkD) reflects the number of daughters that have progeny weaning weight records included in the analysis.

Mature Weight EPD (MW), expressed in pounds, is a predictor of the difference in mature weight of daughters of a sire compared to the daughters of other sires.

Mature Height EPD (MH), expressed in inches, is a predictor of the difference in mature height of a sire's daughters compared to daughters of other sires.

Cow Energy Value ($EN), expressed in dollar savings per cow per year, assesses differences in cow energy requirements as an expected dollar savings difference in daughters of sires. A larger value is more favorable when comparing two animals (more dollars saved on feed energy expenses). Components for computing the cow $EN savings difference include lactation energy requirements and energy costs associated with differences in mature cow size.

FOOT SCORE EPDs

For more information Visit "Read The Results" at the American Angus Association website www.angus.org/Nce/Definitions.aspx www.progressiverancher.com

Claw Set EPD (Claw), is expressed in units of clawset score, with a lower EPD being more favorable indicating a sire will produce progeny with more ideal claw set. The ideal claw set is toes that are symmetrical, even and appropriately spaced.

Foot Angle EPD (Angle), is expressed in units of foot-angle score, with a lower EPD being more favorable indicating a sire will produce progeny with more ideal foot angle. The ideal is a 45-degree angle at the pastern joint with appropriate toe length and heel depth.

The Progressive Rancher

CARCASS EPDs Carcass Weight EPD (CW), expressed in pounds is a predictor of the differences in hot carcass weight of a sire's progeny compared to progeny of other sires.

Marbling EPD (Marb), expressed as a fraction of the difference in USDA marbling score of a sire's progeny compared to progeny of other sires.

Ribeye Area EPD (RE), expressed in square inches, is a predictor of the difference in ribeye area of a sire's progeny compared to progeny of other sires.

Fat Thickness EPD (Fat), expressed in inches, is a predictor of the differences in external fat thickness at the 12th rib (as measured between the 12th and 13th ribs) of a sire's progeny compared to progeny of other sires.

Group/progeny (C Grp/ Pg and U Grp/Pg) reflects the number of contemporary groups and the number of carcass and ultrasound progeny included in the analysis.

HAIR SHEDDING EPDs Hair Shed EPD is expressed in units of hair shed score; a lower EPD favorably indicates a sire should produce progeny who shed their winter coat earlier in the spring. Selection for this trait should improve the genetic potential for a sire’s progeny to shed off earlier increasing the environmental adaptability of cattle living in heat stressed areas and producers grazing endophyte-infected (hot) fescue.

Hair Shed Research Sire EPDs: www.angus.org/ nce/documents/HairShedResearchSires.pdf?v=2 Sortable list of research EPDs on AI sires: www.angus.org/nce/documents/ HairShedResearchEPDs.xlsx?v=2

PAP EPDs Pulmonary arterial pressure EPD (PAP), is expressed in millimeters of Mercury (mmHg), with a lower EPD being more favorable indicating a sire should produce progeny with a lower PAP score. PAP score is an indicator of susceptibility to high altitude disease commonly experienced at elevations greater than 5,500 feet. Selection for this trait aims to improve the genetic potential for a sire’s progeny to have lower PAP scores thus a lower chance of contracting high altitude disease increasing the environmental adaptability of cattle living in mountain areas.

PAP Research Sire EPDs: www.angus.org/nce/ documents/PAPResearchSires-01132020.pdf?v=2 Sortable list of research EPDs on AI sires: www.angus.org/nce/documents/ PAPResearchEPDs-01132020.xlsx?v=2 MARCH 2020 33

What Do The Angus EPDs Really Mean?

by Milton W. Orr | Extension Agent & County Director To truly understand what is represented by each EPD available in the Angus breed is to be able to design the genetic base and true value of a group of animals.

The following is an explanation of what the EPD represents, how it is measured, and its value to you as a breeder in making informed genetic decisions. To start, producers need to know what measures of genetic measurement are available to them.

Expected Progeny Difference (EPD) is the prediction of how future progeny of each animal are expected to perform relative to the progeny of other animals within the same breed. EPDs are expressed in units of measure for the trait, plus or minus. Interim EPDs may appear on young animals when their own performance has yet to be incorporated into the National Cattle Evaluation (NCE) procedures.

This EPD will be preceded by an "I", and may or may not include the animal's own performance record for a particular trait, depending on its availability, appropriate contemporary grouping, or data edits needed for NCE.

PRODUCTION Calving Ease Direct (CED) is expressed as a difference in percentage of unassisted births, with a higher value indicating greater calving ease in first-calf heifers.

It predicts the average difference in ease with which a sire's calves will be born when he is bred to first-calf heifers.

Birth Weight EPD (BW) expressed in pounds, is a predictor of a sire's ability to transmit birth weight to his progeny compared to that of other sires.

Weaning Weight EPD (WW) expressed in pounds, is a predictor of a sire's ability to transmit weaning growth to his progeny compared to that of other sires.

Yearling Weight EPD (YW) expressed in pounds, is a predictor of a sire's ability to transmit yearling growth to his progeny compared to that of other sires.

Yearling Height EPD (YH) is a predictor of a sire's ability to transmit yearling height, expressed in inches, compared to the that of other sires. Height is normally measured level across the hip in line with the hook bones.

Maternal Milk EPD (Milk) is a predictor of a sire's genetic merit for milk and mothering ability as expressed in his daughters compared to daughters of other sires. In other words, it is that part of a calf 's weaning weight attributed to milk and mothering ability of the sire’s daughters.

Herds (MkH) indicate the number of herds from which data from the bull’s daughters are reported.

Daughters (MkD) reflects the number of daughters that have progeny weaning weight records included in the analysis for maternal milk EPD. Mature Weight EPD (MW) expressed in pounds, is a predictor of the difference in mature weight of daughters of a sire compared to the daughters of other sires.

Mature Height EPD (MH) expressed in inches, is a predictor of the difference in mature height of a sire's daughters compared to daughters of other sires.

Cow Energy Value ($EN) expressed in dollar savings per cow per year, assesses differences in cow energy requirements as an expected dollar savings difference in daughters of sires. A larger value is more favorable when comparing two animals (more dollars saved on feed energy expenses). Components for computing the cow $EN savings difference include lactation energy and other energy costs associated with differences in mature cow size.

Carcass merit and value has become one of the major criteria for selection within the beef cattle business. Value, and ultimately potential profit rely heavily upon the value Accuracy (ACC) is the reliability that can of the carcass and the amount of usable be placed on the EPD. An accuracy of close product when the animal is harvested. As to 1.0 indicates higher reliability. Accuracy Scrotal Circumference EPD (SC) a result, predictors of carcass value, both is impacted by the number of progeny and expressed in centimeters, is a predictor carcass and ultrasound EPD’s have become ancestral records included in the analysis. of the difference in transmitting ability important in identifying differences in Accuracy value normally range from .05 to for scrotal size compared to that of other genetic values. Carcass EPD’s have been .90 with younger animals understandably sires. There is an indication that bulls with used for a number of years and differ from having lower accuracy due to age limiting larger Scrotal Circumference not only ultrasound EPD’s in a number of ways. the number of progeny records or personal breed more cows in a shorter time period, Marbling is listed as a fractional difference performance data. but daughters of bulls with larger scrotal in the USDA marbling score for carcass EPDs while it is listed as a percentage of circumference reach puberty faster. $Value Indexes are multi-trait selection intramuscular fat in Ultrasound EPDs. indexes, expressed in dollars per head, to assist beef producers by adding MATERNAL Fat thickness, while measured in inches in is both instances, is measured at the 12th rib simplicity to genetic selection decisions by Calving Ease Maternal (CEM) incorporating multiple EPD’s into a single expressed as a difference in percentage for Carcass and the 12th rib and rump for value. The $Value is an estimate of how of unassisted births with a higher value Ultrasound. future progeny of each sire are expected to indicating greater calving ease in first-calf perform, on average, compared to progeny daughters. It predicts the average ease with The largest difference in Carcass and of other sires in the database if the sires which a sire's daughters will calve as first- Ultrasound EPDs is the animal must be were randomly mated to cows and if calves calf heifers when compared to daughters harvested and actual measurements taken for carcass while ultrasound EPDs involve of other sires. were exposed to the same environment.

34 MARCH 2020

The Progressive Rancher

the collection of an image which is then analyzed by a certified technician for numerical definition.

It is likely the industry will start to phase out carcass EPDs and standardize with Ultrasound information. Producers who know some information about the carcass merit of their herd will be able to make more informed decisions with these tools.

Therefore it is highly encouraged that producers ultrasound animals within their herd at the appropriate time to gather information on all individuals over time.

CARCASS Carcass Weight EPD (CW) expressed in pounds is a predictor of the differences in hot carcass weight of a sire's progeny compared to progeny of other sires. A value neither larger or smaller than the breed average would be expected to result in little change in carcass weight from where the average for the herd is currently.

Marbling EPD (Marb) expressed as a fraction of the difference in USDA marbling score of a sire's progeny compared to progeny of other sires. A higher value will most likely result in greater quality and acceptance.

Ribeye Area EPD (RE) expressed in square inches, is a predictor of the difference in ribeye area of a sire's progeny compared to progeny of other sires. Larger values will result in progeny with larger ribeye areas when needed.

Fat Thickness EPD (Fat) expressed in inches, is a predictor of the differences in external fat thickness at the 12th rib (as measured between the 12th and 13th ribs) of a sire's progeny compared to progeny of other sires. Selection for less external fat reduces the amount of trim needed at the packing plant and can increase the value of the animal.

Group/progeny (Grp/Pg) reflects the number of contemporary groups and the number of carcasses for each sire included in the analysis for carcass EPD values.

ULTRASOUND Intramuscular Fat EPD (%IMF) is a predictor of the difference in a sire's progeny for percent intramuscular fat in the ribeye muscle compared to other sires.

Ribeye Area EPD (RE) is a predictor of the difference in square inches of ultrasound ribeye area of a sire's progeny compared to the progeny of other sires. www.progressiverancher.com

Fat Thickness EPD (FAT) expressed in inches, is a predictor of the difference in ultrasound fat thickness at the 12th rib of a sire's progeny compared to the progeny of other sires. It includes the weighted average of 60% of the rib fat measurement and 40% of the rump fat measurement.

Group/progeny (GP/PG) is the number of contemporary groups and number of progeny considered in this analysis.

$VALUE INDEXES $Value indexes are multi-trait selection indexes, expressed in dollars per head, to assist beef producers by adding simplicity to genetic selection decisions. The $Value is an estimate of how future progeny of each sire are expected to perform, on average, compared to progeny of other sires in the database if the sires were randomly mated to cows and if calves were exposed to the same environment.

The use of multi-trait selection indexes as tools for commercial cow-calf operators and seedstock breeders is rapidly evolving in the beef industry.

Selection indexes are a tool to select for several traits at once. An index approach takes into account genetic and economic values to select for economic merit. A multi-trait index approach can be contrasted to single-trait selection or independent culling levels.

To reduce the confusion of evaluating all the available EPD values, and individual performance information, indexes have been developed and calculated to simplify multi trait selection.

Weaned Calf Value ($W) Feedlot Value ($F) Grid Value ($G) and Beef Value ($B) are bioeconomic values, expressed in dollars per head, to assist commercial and purebred beef producers by adding simplicity to genetic selection decisions.

Also, a Cow Energy Value ($EN) is available for fine-tuning the cow herd.

Purebred breeders need to understand these values to assist commercial customers in selection and purchasing decisions.

Weaned Calf $Value, an index value expressed in dollars per head, is the expected average difference in future progeny performance for pre-weaning merit. $W includes both revenue and cost adjustments associated with differences in birth weight, weaning direct growth, maternal milk, and mature cow size.

Weaned Calf Value uses these assumptions.

As every producer knows, calf prices vary, feed costs vary, as well as the other values assumed in the calculation of this index. It is important to remember that while these values may not be current, as long as the values change for all the population, the relative ranking of the animals, and their differences when compared will stay in 1. Birth Weight - birth weight influences the same relative order. In other words, on calf death losses related to dystocia the value of this performance measure (assisted births) weaned calf crop is to predict average genetic differences percentage, and resulting revenue per cow. in individuals, not to measure actual performance: 2. Weaning Weight - direct growth impact on weaning weight revenue (pre- Base Price=$115 per cwt, Cow/Heifer weaning growth and pounds of calf sold) Mix=80%/20%, Cow wt.=1,300 lb, Feed and energy requirements and related costs energy cost of $.060 per MCal NEm necessary to support pre-weaning calf growth.

3. Maternal Milk - revenue from calf pre-weaning growth and pounds of calf sold as influenced by varying cow milk levels, and costs related to lactation energy requirements. Measured in pounds of weaning weight of daughter’s calves that are attributed to increased milking ability of the daughter.

A Cow Energy Value ($EN) is available to assess differences in cow energy requirements, expressed in dollars per cow per year, as an expected dollar savings difference in future daughters of sires. A larger value is more favorable when comparing two animals (more dollars saved on feed energy expenses).

4. Mature Cow Size - expense adjustments Components for computing the cow $EN are made for maintenance energy as savings difference include lactation energy related to differing mature cow size, requirements and energy costs associated including mathematical linkages between with differences in mature cow size. For mature weight and yearling weight. The example, an individual with a $EN of assumption is that larger frame sizes +15.75 compared with an individual with a $EN of +4.68 would result in an expected would incur greater maintenance costs. savings of 11.07 for the first individual’s The impact areas are combined into a future daughter’s feed energy costs. bio-economic value expressed in dollars per head from birth through weaning. As feed costs change, it is important to Resources used to form the Wean Calf remember that the measurement is the Value ($W) include National Research expected difference in two individuals that Council (NRC) US Meat and Animal can be attributed to genetics. The $EN is Research Center (USMARC) Cattle- an additional tool for breeders wanting to Fax, SPA and university cow-calf budgets, fine-tune cowherd maintenance attributes in their breeding programs. and breed performance databases.

$W provides the expected dollar-per-head difference in future progeny pre-weaning performance in a multi-trait fashion, within a typical U.S. beef cowherd. If Bull A has a $W of +25.00 and Bull B has a $W of +15.00, and these sires were $Values encompass the revenue generated randomly mated to a comparable set of from genetically derived outputs and females and the calves were exposed to the associated costs of required inputs. same environment, and a normal number $Values only have meaning when used in of replacement females were saved from comparing the relative merit or ranking both sires, on average you could expect of two individuals within the same breed. Bull A's progeny to have a +10.00 per $Values are sensitive to the assumptions head advantage in pre-weaning value over for the industry-relevant components Bull B's progeny (25.00 - 15.00 = +10.00 used in calculating the indexes. As with per head).

EPDs, variation in $Values between animals indicates expected differences in As with any $Value, $W only has meaning the relative value of progeny if random when used in comparing the relative merit or ranking of two individuals. mating is assumed. www.progressiverancher.com

Cow Energy Value ($EN)

For years, commercial bull buyers have requested a multi trait selection tool that focused on traits that have great effect on profitability in fed cattle. Profitability for feeder calf producers, backgrounders and feeders rely heavily upon growth and carcass merit. As a result, the Feedlot Value $F, Grid Value $G, and Beef Value $B were created.

While the traits encompassed in these values are indeed important, they should not be used as a single selection criteria as they only address post-weaning performance and carcass merit. These values again only have merit when used to compare genetic differences of two individuals and cannot be used to predict actual performance of an individual.

The Progressive Rancher

Feedlot Value ($F) an index value expressed in dollars per head, is the expected average difference in future progeny performance for post-weaning merit compared to progeny of other sires. $F incorporates weaning weight (WW) and yearling weight (YW) EPD along with trait interrelationships. Typical feedlot gain value, feed consumption and cost differences are accounted for in the final calculations, along with a standard set of industry values for days on feed, ration costs and cash cattle price. As with other $values, assumptions are made for required inputs and prices received. Even when these prices are not current, relative rankings of the individuals and associated differences will still be accurate. In other words, the value of this performance measure is to predict average genetic differences in individuals, not to measure actual performance. Feedlot assumptions are: Time on feed of 160 days, Ration cost of $190 per dry ton, and Fed market of $ 84 per cwt.

Grid Value ($G) an index value expressed in dollars per head, is the expected average difference in future progeny performance for carcass grid merit compared to progeny of other sires. The $G combines quality grade and yield grade attributes, and is calculated for animals with carcass EPDs, ultrasound EPDs or both types of EPDs. A three-year rolling average is used to establish typical industry economic values for quality grade and yield grade schedules.

Quality grade premiums are specified for Prime, CAB and Choice carcasses, as well as Select and Standard discounts. Yield grade premiums are incorporated for YG 1 and YG 2 (high-yielding carcasses) with discounts for YG 4 and YG 5 (low red meat yields). Grid impact in dollars per hundredweight (cwt.) and dollars per head is calculated from the yield and quality grade components, and then combined to arrive at the $G. • Quality Grade ($QG) $QG represents the quality grade segment of the economic advantage found in $G. $QG is intended for the specialized user wanting to place more emphasis on improving quality grade.

The carcass marbling (Marb) EPD and ultrasound derived percent intramuscular fat (%IMF) EPD contribute to $QG. • Yield Grade ($YG) $YG represents the yield grade segment of the economic advantage found in $G. $YG is intended for the specialized user wanting to place more ... continued next page MARCH 2020 35

... continued from previous page emphasis on red meat yield. It provides a Docility EPDs multi-trait approach to encompass ribeye, fat thickness and weight into an economic More than ever, emphasis is being placed on temperament in cattle. The influence value for red meat yield. of temperament on carcass quality issues $G combines both $QG and $YG, and as well as personal safety has made may be the best carcass decision tool measurement of this trait important for focusing on quality and red meat from an economic standpoint. It has yield simultaneously. The assumptions been documented that highly excitable used in the calculation of this index cattle will be more likely to have higher are listed below. As with other $values, incidences of dark cutters, as well as assumptions are made for prices, tenderness and taste issues in retail cuts. premiums, and discounts. Even when these are not current, relative rankings It is also more expensive to feed highly of the individuals and associated excitable cattle as more of the dry matter differences will still be accurate. In other intake will go towards body maintenance, words, the value of this performance leaving less available for growth and measure is to predict average genetic finishing. With the losses associated with differences in individuals, not to measure losses from carcass quality, combined with the personal safety issue, the economic actual performance. impact of temperament can be significant.

Our Favorite Beef Recipes Salisbury Steak With Mushroom Gravy This classic dish is delicious and so easy - it's ready in just 30 minutes!

Use a 90% lean ground beef; it has a lot of flavor but isn't overly greasy.

The meat is mixed with breadcrumbs and seasonings, formed into oval shaped “steaks” and cooked to a golden brown. Either white button or cremini mushrooms both work well for the gravy.

You can make a double batch of this recipe and freeze half for another night! Either freeze the uncooked patties then thaw and proceed with the rest of the recipe, or freeze the cooked patties right in their gravy.

If you choose to freeze the cooked patties, simply defrost in the fridge then simmer in a pan until warmed through.

The absolute best way to serve salisbury steak is over mashed potatoes. Try adding a vegetable side like asparagus or broccoli.

Quality components:

Prime premium(above Choice)=$8.00, CAB premium (above Choice)=$3.50, Choice-Select spread=$11.00, Standard discount=$-15.00

Docility EPDs can provide a means of predicting genetic differences between individuals in the same breed in regards to temperament. The values for the docility EPDs are reported in percentages, with Yield components: YG 1 premium=$3.00, YG 2 higher percentages being most favorable. premium=$1.50, YG 3 base=$0.00, YG 4 For example, if Bull A had a docility EPD & 5 discount=$-25.00, Avg. carcass wt., of 9% and Bull B had a docility EPD of 4% one could expect 5 more calves out of lb.=816, Heavyweight discount=$-20.00 100 born by Bull A to be in the most docile Beef Value ($B) facilitates what almost score (docile score=1). In herds where every beef breeder is already seeking temperament is not an issue, the expected - simultaneous multi-trait genetic difference would not be realized. Cattle selection for feedlot and carcass merit, are scored for docility by the breeder in the based on dollars and cents. $B represents following scores: the expected average dollar-per-head difference in the progeny post-weaning Docility Score=1 Mild disposition, does performance and carcass value compared not pull on headgate, exits chute calmly. to progeny of other sires. The $B value is comprised of two pieces: $F and $G. To Docility Score=2 Quiet, but stubborn, align $B with marketplace realities and may pull back on headgate and exits chute appropriately valued carcass weight, the quickly following factors are incorporated into the final calculations for $B: Docility Score=3 Nervous and impatient • $B is not simply the sum of $F and $G. but manageable. Repeated pushing and pulling on headgate, exits quickly.

• Projected carcass weight and its value are calculated, along with production cost Docility Score=4 Flighty, wild, jumpy, or out of control. Defecates and urinates differences. during chute work, continually flicks tail.

• $B takes into consideration any discount Has large flight zone and runs fence and for heavyweight carcasses. jumps when pushed • Final adjustments are made to prevent double-counting weight between feedlot Docility Score=5 Same attributes as score of 4 but is also aggressive. May exhibit and carcass segments. attack behavior when worked singly. Very The resulting $B value is not designed to vocal in chute. be driven by one factor, such as quality, red meat yield or weight. Instead, it is Docility Score=6 Extremely aggressive. a dynamic result of the application of Thrashes about or attacks when pressed. commercial market values to genetics for Pronounced attack behavior. both feedlot and carcass merit.

36 MARCH 2020

Ingredients for the Steaks: 1-1/4 pounds ground beef (90% lean is preferable) 1/3 cup breadcrumbs 2 tablespoons minced onion 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning or equal parts dried basil, dried oregano and dried thyme 1 tablespoon ketchup 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce 1 egg beaten salt and pepper to taste 2 teaspoons olive oil

Ingredients for the Gravy: 1 tablespoon butter 1/2 cup sliced onion 8 ounces sliced mushrooms salt and pepper to taste 1-1/2 cups beef broth 1 tablespoon ketchup 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce 1 tablespoon cornstarch 1 tablespoon chopped parsley

Preparation: In a large bowl, mix together the beef, breadcrumbs, onion, Italian seasoning, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, egg and salt and pepper.

Form the meat mixture into 4 equal sized oval shaped patties.

Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium high heat.

Place the patties in the pan in a single layer. Cook for 5-6 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through.

Remove the meat from the pan. Place on a plate and cover with foil.

Melt the butter in the pan. Add the onion and mushrooms and season with salt and pepper.

Cook for 3-5 minutes or until vegetables have softened. Whisk in the beef broth, ketchup and Worcestershire sauce and bring to a simmer.

In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water.

Add the cornstarch mixture to the pan and whisk until smooth. Cook for 1-2 minutes or until sauce has just thickened.

Add the meat back to the pan and spoon the gravy over the top. Sprinkle with parsley and serve.

The Progressive Rancher

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Churchill County Cowbelles Update

by Susan Van Patten, President I am thrilled to be enjoying milder temperatures and more sunshine.

By now the cooler temperatures and occasional snowstorms are no longer invigorating and are becoming downright annoying.

CCC Tri Tip dinner.

When I moved from Wyoming, I studied the weather to make sure it had four seasons and plenty of sunshine. After almost twenty years I am pleased to call Nevada home. Still have Wyoming in my heart, but Nevada has a special place there as well. I think it has a lot to do with many of the people I have met. Both places seemed to summon individuals that are independent and hardworking.

This month Cowbelles organized, prepared, and managed their fifty-fourth annual Bull Sale Dinner.

We may not have had record-breaking attendance, but it was well attended and enjoyed by locals and visitors alike. Cowbelles would like to thank The Nevada Cattleman’s Association for their continued support of this event. We also want to thank the local FFA Chapters from Churchill County High School and Oasis Academy for their assistance with the dinner.

CCC Dinner desserts.

I personally want to say a huge “Thank You” and a job “well done” to all the members that assisted with dinner and brought in some fabulous desserts that were shared with the attendees. A final thanks from me to Tom Barnes of the Nevada Cattleman’s Association for opening the event with presentation of their annual awards. My favorite part of the meal was all the compliments we received as a group and individually. A total stranger worked his way across the room making a beeline for me express how pleased he was with his meal.

Cowbelles presented their annual award at the event as well. The 2019 Cowbelle of the Year was awarded to a relatively new member, Karen Lawson.

Karen Lawson receiving 2019 Churchill County Cowbell of the Year from CCC President Sue Van Patten.

Karen joined in 2017 and has been actively involved since. Although she was raised in Buffalo, Wyoming she loves ranching in Nevada. In order to support her ranching addiction, she taught Mathematics and Computer Assisted Drawing at Churchill County High School.

I met Karen during my teaching career at CCHS when I switched to teaching the culinary classes. We worked together on multiple fundraising projects to support the SKILLS Program and the FCCLA Program at the school. Both programs emphasize the development of work employability skills and sponsor local, state, and national skill level competitions.

We had a memorable trip to Nashville, Tennessee for a national competition. Her support for students then and now is an illustration of why she was chosen for this honor. No matter the endeavor that Cowbelles has engaged in, she is committed to creating a superior product that is effective.

Karen’s work ethic, high standards, and empathy are a winning combination. I consider Karen to be a great friend, colleague, and Cowbelle Representative. I have also learned that Karen and her husband are a team, so I must acknowledge Tim Lawson as well. I love his sense of humor. www.progressiverancher.com

The Progressive Rancher

MARCH 2020 37

CARCASS BEEF GRADES AND STANDARDS 101 Yield Grades of Carcass Beef Yield Grade 1. a. A carcass in Yield Grade 1 usually has only a thin layer of external fat over the ribs, loins, rumps, and clods, and slight deposits of fat in the flanks and cod or udder. There is usually a very thin layer of fat over the outside of the rounds and over the tops of the shoulders and necks. Muscles are usually visible through the fat in many areas of the carcass. b. A 700-pound carcass of this yield grade, which is near the borderline of Yield Grades 1 and 2, might have two-tenths inch of fat over the ribeye, 12.5 square inches of ribeye, and 1.5 percent of its weight in kidney, pelvic, and heart fat. c. A 1,100-pound carcass of this yield grade, which is near the borderline of Yield Grades 1 and 2, might have four-tenths inch of fat over the ribeye, 19.1 square inches of ribeye, and 2.0 percent of its weight in kidney, pelvic, and heart fat.

Yield Grade 2. a. A carcass in Yield Grade 2 usually is nearly completely covered with fat but the lean is plainly visible through the fat over the outside of the rounds, the tops of the shoulders, and the necks. There usually is a slightly thin layer of fat over the loins, ribs, and inside rounds and the fat over the rumps, hips, and clods usually is slightly thick. There are usually small deposits of fat in the flanks and cod or udder. b. A 700-pound carcass of this yield grade, which is near the borderline of Yield Grades 2 and 3, might have five-tenths inch of fat over the ribeye, 12.3 square inches of ribeye, and 2.5 percent of its weight in kidney, pelvic, and heart fat. c. A 1,100-pound carcass of this yield grade, which is near the borderline of Yield Grades 2 and 3, might have six-tenths inch of fat over the ribeye, 18.1 square inches of ribeye, and 3.0 percent of its weight in kidney, pelvic, and heart fat.

Yield Grade 3. a. A carcass in Yield Grade 3 usually is completely covered with fat and the lean usually is visible through the fat only on the necks and the lower part of the outside of the rounds. There usually is a slightly thick layer of fat over the loins, ribs, and inside rounds and the fat over the rumps, hips, and clods usually is moderately thick. There usually are  38 MARCH 2020

slightly large deposits of fat in the flanks and cod or udder. b. A 700-pound carcass of this yield grade, which is near the borderline of Yield Grades 3 and 4, might have seven-tenths inch of fat over the ribeye, 11.0 square inches of ribeye, and 3.0 percent of its weight in kidney, pelvic, and heart fat. c. A 1,100-pound carcass of this yield grade, which is near the borderline of Yield Grades 3 and 4, might have eight-tenths inch of fat over the ribeye, 16.9 square inches of ribeye, 3.5 percent of its weight in kidney, pelvic, and heart fat.

Yield Grade 4.

a. A carcass in Yield Grade 4 usually is completely covered with fat. The only muscles usually visible are those on the shanks and over the outside of the plates and flanks. There usually is a moderately thick layer of fat over the loins, ribs, and inside rounds and the fat over the rumps, hips, and clods usually is thick. There usually are large deposits of fat in the flanks and cod or udder. b. A 700-pound carcass of this yield grade, which is near the borderline of Yield Grades 4 and 5, might have nine-tenths inch of fat over the ribeye, 9.8 square inches of ribeye, and 3.5 percent of its carcass weight in kidney, pelvic, and heart fat. c. A 1,100-pound carcass of this yield grade, which is near the borderline of Yield Grades 4 and 5, might have one inch of fat over the ribeye, 15.6 square inches of ribeye, and 4.0 percent of its weight in kidney, pelvic and heart fat.

Yield Grade 5.

A carcass in Yield Grade 5 usually has more fat on all of the various parts, a smaller area of ribeye, and more kidney, pelvic, and heart fat than a carcass in Yield Grade 4.

Quality Grades of Carcass Beef (steer, heifer, cow) Prime. a. Depending on their degree of maturity, beef carcasses possessing the minimum requirements for the Prime grade vary in their other indications of quality as evidenced in the ribeye muscle. Minimum quality characteristics are described for two maturity groups covering the entire range of maturity permitted in the Prime grade. b. Carcasses in the younger group, range from the youngest that are eligible for the beef class to those at the juncture of the two maturity groups, which have slightly red and slightly soft chine bones and cartilages on the ends of the thoracic vertebrae that have some evidence of ossification. In addition, the sacral vertebrae are completely fused and the cartilages on the ends of the lumbar vertebrae are nearly completely ossified. The

rib bones are slightly wide and slightly flat and the ribeye muscle is light red in color and is fine in texture. In carcasses throughout the range of maturity included in this group, a minimum slightly abundant amount of marbling is required (see Figure 1) and the ribeye muscle is moderately firm. c. Carcasses in the older group, range from those described above as representative of the juncture of the two groups to those at the maximum maturity permitted in the Prime grade, which have chine bones tinged with red and cartilages on the ends of the thoracic vertebrae that are partially ossified. In addition, the sacral vertebrae are completely fused, the cartilages on the ends of the lumbar vertebrae are completely ossified, and the cut surface of the lean tends to be fine in texture. The minimum degree of marbling required increases with advancing maturity throughout this group from minimum slightly abundant to maximum slightly abundant (see Figure 1) and the ribeye muscle is firm. d. Beef produced from cows is not eligible for the Prime grade.

Choice. a. Depending on their degree of maturity, beef carcasses possessing the minimum requirements for the Choice grade vary in their other indications of quality as evidenced in the ribeye muscle. Minimum quality characteristics are described for two maturity groups, which cover the entire range of maturity permitted in the Choice grade. b. Carcasses in the younger group, range from the youngest that are eligible for the beef class, to those at the juncture of the two maturity groups, which have slightly red and slightly soft chine bones and cartilages on the ends of the thoracic vertebrae that have some evidence of ossification. In addition, the sacral vertebrae are completely fused and the cartilages on the ends of the lumbar vertebrae are nearly completely ossified. The rib bones are slightly wide and slightly flat and the ribeye muscle is moderately light red

in color and is fine in texture. In carcasses throughout the range of maturity included in this group, a minimum small amount of marbling is required (see Figure 1) and the ribeye muscle may be slightly soft. c. Carcasses in the older group range from those described above as representative of the juncture of the two groups, to those at the maximum maturity permitted in the Choice grade, which have chine bones tinged with red and cartilages on the ends of the thoracic vertebrae are partially ossified. In addition, the sacral vertebrae are completely fused, the cartilages on the ends of the lumbar vertebrae are completely ossified, and the cut surface of the lean tends to be fine in texture. In carcasses throughout the range of maturity included in this group, a minimum modest amount of marbling is required (see Figure 1) and the ribeye muscle is slightly firm.

Select. a. In carcasses throughout the range of maturity permitted in the Select grade, the minimum marbling required is a minimum slight amount (see Figure 1)and the ribeye may be moderately soft. b. Carcasses in the maturity group permitted range from the youngest that are eligible for the beef class, to those at the juncture of the two maturity groups, which have slightly red and slightly soft chine bones and cartilages on the ends of the thoracic vertebrae that have some evidence of ossification. In addition, the sacral vertebrae are completely fused and the cartilages on the ends of the lumbar vertebrae are nearly completely ossified. The rib bones are slightly wide and slightly flat and the ribeye muscle is slightly light red in color and is fine in texture. In carcasses throughout the range of maturity included in this group, a minimum slight amount of marbling is required (see Figure 1) and the ribeye may be moderately soft.

Standard. a. Depending on their degree of maturity, beef carcasses possessing the minimum requirements for the standard grade vary

FIGURE 1: Relationship Between Marbling, Maturity, and Carcass Quality Grade*

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in their other indications of quality as evidenced in the ribeye muscle. Minimum quality characteristics are described for two maturity groups which cover the entire range of maturity permitted in the Standard grade. b. Carcasses in the younger group range from the youngest that are eligible for the beef class to those at the juncture of the two maturity groups, which have slightly red and slightly soft chine bones and cartilages on the ends of the thoracic vertebrae that have some evidence of ossification. In addition, the sacral vertebrae are completely fused and the cartilages on the ends of the lumbar vertebrae are nearly completely ossified. The rib bones are slightly wide and slightly flat and the ribeye muscle is slightly dark red in color and is fine in texture. In carcasses throughout the range of maturity included in this group, a minimum practically devoid amount of marbling is required (see Figure 1) and the ribeye muscle may be soft. c. Carcasses in the older group range from those described above as representative of the juncture of the two groups to those at the maximum maturity permitted in the Standard grade, which have chine bones tinged with red and cartilages on the ends of the thoracic vertebrae that are partially ossified. In addition, the sacral vertebrae are completely fused, the cartilages on the ends of the lumbar vertebrae are completely ossified, and the cut surface of the lean is moderately fine in texture. The minimum degree of marbling required increases with advancing maturity throughout this group from minimum practically devoid to maximum practically devoid (see Figure 1) and the ribeye muscle may be moderately soft.

Commercial. a. Commercial grade beef carcasses are restricted to those with evidences of more advanced maturity than permitted in the Standard grade. Depending on their degree of maturity, beef carcasses possessing the minimum requirements for the Commercial grade vary in their other indications of quality as evidenced in the ribeye muscle.

Minimum quality characteristics are described for the youngest and the most mature of these groups. The requirements for the intermediate group are determined by interpolation between the requirements indicated for the two groups described. b. Carcasses in the youngest group permitted in the Commercial grade range from those with indications of maturity barely more advanced than described as maximum for the Standard grade, to those with moderately hard, rather white chine bones and with cartilages on the ends of the thoracic vertebrae that show considerable ossification but the outlines of the cartilages are still plainly visible. In addition, the rib bones are moderately wide and flat and the ribeye muscle is moderately dark red and slightly www.progressiverancher.com

coarse in texture. The minimum degree of marbling required increases with advancing maturity throughout this group from a minimum small amount to a maximum small amount (see Figure 1) and the ribeye muscle is slightly firm. c. The youngest carcasses in the most mature group included in the Commercial grade have hard, white chine bones and the outlines of the cartilages on the ends of the thoracic vertebrae are barely visible, the rib bones are wide and flat, and the ribeye muscle is dark red and coarse in texture. The range of maturity in this group extends to include carcasses from the oldest animals marketed. The minimum degree of marbling required increases with advancing maturity throughout this group from a minimum moderate amount to a maximum moderate amount (see Figure 1) and the ribeye muscle is firm.

Utility. a. Depending on their degree of maturity, beef carcasses possessing the minimum requirements for the Utility grade vary in their other indications of quality as evidenced in the ribeye muscle. Carcasses within the full range of maturity classified as beef are included in the Utility grade. Thus, five maturity groups are recognized. Minimum quality requirements are described for three of these groups -- the first or youngest, the third or intermediate, and the fifth or the most mature. The requirements for the second and fourth maturity groups are determined by interpolation between the requirements described for their adjoining groups. b. Carcasses in the first or youngest maturity group range from the youngest that are eligible for the beef class, to those at the juncture of the first two maturity groups, which have slightly red and slightly soft chine bones and cartilages on the ends of the thoracic vertebrae that have some evidence of ossification. In addition, the sacral vertebrae are completely fused and the cartilages on the ends of the lumbar vertebrae are nearly completely ossified.

The rib bones are slightly flat and the ribeye muscle is slightly dark red in color and fine in texture. In carcasses throughout the range of maturity included in this group, the ribeye muscle is devoid of marbling and may be soft and slightly watery. c. Carcasses in the third or intermediate maturity group range from those with indications of maturity barely more advanced than described as maximum for the Standard grade, to those with moderately hard, rather white chine bones and with cartilages on the ends of the thoracic vertebrae that show considerable ossification but the outlines of the cartilages are still plainly visible.

In addition, the rib bones are moderately wide and flat and the ribeye muscle is dark red in color and slightly coarse in texture. The minimum degree of marbling

required increases with advancing maturity throughout this group from minimum practically devoid to maximum practically devoid (see Figure 1) and the ribeye muscle may be moderately soft. d. The youngest carcasses in the fifth or oldest maturity group have hard, white chine bones, and the outlines of the cartilages on the ends of the thoracic vertebrae are barely visible, the rib bones are wide and flat, and the ribeye muscle is very dark red in color and coarse in texture. The range in maturity in this group extends to include carcasses from the oldest animals produced. The minimum degree of marbling required increases with advancing maturity throughout this group from a minimum slight amount to a maximum slight amount (see Figure 1) and the ribeye muscle is slightly firm.

Cutter. a. Depending on their degree of maturity, beef carcasses possessing the minimum requirements for the Cutter grade vary in their other indications of quality as evidenced in the ribeye muscle. Carcasses within the full range of maturity classified as beef are included in the Cutter grade. Thus, five maturity groups are recognized. Minimum quality requirements are described for three of these groups -- the first or youngest, the third or intermediate, and the fifth or the most mature. The requirements for the second and fourth maturity groups are determined by interpolation between the requirements described for their adjoining groups. b. Carcasses in the first or youngest maturity group range from the youngest that are eligible for the beef class to those at the juncture of the first two maturity groups, which have slightly red and slightly soft chine bones and cartilages on the ends of the thoracic vertebrae that have some evidence of ossification. In addition, the sacral vertebrae are completely fused and the cartilages on the ends of the lumbar vertebrae are nearly completely ossified.

The rib bones are slightly wide and slightly flat and the ribeye muscle is slightly dark red in color and fine in texture. In carcasses throughout the range of maturity included in this group, the ribeye muscle is devoid of marbling and may be very soft and watery. c. Carcasses in the third or intermediate maturity group range from those with indications of maturity barely more advanced than described as maximum for the Standard grade, to those with moderately hard, rather white chine bones and with cartilages on the ends of the thoracic vertebrae that show considerable ossification but the outlines of the cartilages are still plainly visible. In addition, the rib bones are moderately wide and flat and the ribeye muscle is dark red in color and slightly coarse in texture. In carcasses throughout the range of maturity included

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in this group, the ribeye muscle is devoid of marbling and may be soft and watery. d. Carcasses in the fifth or oldest maturity group have hard white chine bones and the outlines of the cartilages on the ends of the thoracic vertebrae are barely visible, the rib bones are wide and flat, and the ribeye muscle is very dark red in color and coarse in texture. The range in maturity in this group extends to include carcasses from the oldest animals produced. The minimum degree of marbling required increases with advancing maturity throughout this group from minimum practically devoid to maximum practically devoid (see Figure 1) and the ribeye muscle is soft and slightly watery.

Canner.

The Canner grade includes only those carcasses that are inferior to the minimum requirements specified for the Cutter grade.

Quality Grades of Carcass Beef (bullock) Prime. For the Prime grade, the minimum degree of marbling required is a minimum slightly abundant amount for carcasses throughout the range of maturity permitted in the bullock class. The ribeye muscle is moderately firm and, in carcasses having the maximum maturity for this class, the ribeye is light red in color.

Choice. For the Choice grade, the minimum degree of marbling required is a minimum small amount for carcasses throughout the range of maturity permitted in the bullock class. The ribeye muscle may be slightly soft and, in carcasses having the maximum maturity for this class, the ribeye is moderately light red in color.

Select. For the Select grade, the minimum degree of marbling required is a minimum slight amount for carcasses throughout the range of maturity permitted in the bullock class. The ribeye muscle may be moderately soft and, in carcasses having the maximum maturity for this class, the ribeye is slightly light red in color.

Standard. For the Standard grade, the

minimum degree of marbling required is a minimum practically devoid amount for carcasses throughout the range of maturity permitted in the bullock class. The ribeye muscle may be soft and, in carcasses having the maximum maturity for this class, the ribeye is slightly dark red in color.

Utility. The Utility grade includes only those carcasses that do not meet the minimum requirements specified for the Standard grade.

MARCH 2020 39 

BEEF CARCASS QUALITY CHAPTER 6 from the Youth BEEF QUALITY ASSURANCE Program Manual for the Pacific Northwest A Pacific Northwest Extension Publication • University of Idaho • Oregon State University • Washington State University Full Program Manual for the Pacific Northwest can be found here: https://extension.usu.edu/cache/files/Youth_Beef_Quality_Assurance.pdf

Delivering a beef product that is high quality for consumers is a challenging task for the beef industry.

From breeding cattle to consuming hamburger and steaks, beef flows through many hands, with each segment contributing to product quality and each needing to make money.

Every segment of the beef industry has different production goals. The cow-calf producer must have animals that grow and reproduce in the ranch's environment. The stocker-feeder producer wants animals that gain weight on the least amount of feed. The packer wants pounds of red meat without waste and retail products that are of the same size and quality. All inputs from each segment have an impact on carcass quality and make it difficult to determine what type of animal is best for the entire industry.

Table 3 This table translates 1991 industry terms and targets into ideal sizes.

Live Weight Hot Carcass Weight 12th rib fat thickness Rib-eye Area Yield Grade

1,050 to 1,300 lbs.

600 to 800 lbs.

0.30 to 0.45" 12.5 to 14.0 sq. in.

2.0 or less

Quality Grade Select+ to Average Choice

What makes a quality product?

National Cattlemen’s Beef Quality Audit in 1991 found the following carcass characteristics to be optimal for consumer satisfaction: Consumer satisfaction studies from the audit determined the beef product that consumers selected as being Youth market beef exhibitors make up high quality was from cattle fitting in another segment of the cattle industry. Table 3 ranges. Therefore, these industry They need to understand that they are beef targets were recommended. Striving to producers. Typically youth are involved in raise cattle to fit the targets should provide the fun experience of raising and showing continued consumer satisfaction. market steers at the fair.

Carcass characteristics Youth should understand they are raising animals that will become food products Carcass characteristics in live animals are for consumers. Even though youth-raised defined by body type and muscling. The market beef make up only about one mature body size of a beef animal will percent of the beef produced, if a consumer affect carcass weight. To reach a carcass has a bad experience from that beef, it weight between 600 and 800 pounds, becomes a negative for the beef industry.

Youth producers are ambassadors for the beef industry and should do all they can to promote and raise quality beef.

cattle should have a live weight from 1,050 to 1,300 pounds at harvest. Frame size plays a factor in the ideal live weight of market cattle. Large-framed cattle typically weigh more than 1,300 pounds, medium-framed cattle weigh 1,0501,250 and small-framed cattle weigh less than 1,050 pounds when they reach the ideal body composition.

size points toward the amount of muscling throughout the carcass. Producers need to select for cattle that will produce muscular beef carcasses in moderation, according to industry standards.

Beef quality grade is determined by the amount of marbling and the muscle color in the ribeye and the age of animal.

Marbling is intramuscular fat and the 12th rib fat. These cattle should have .30 score is determined in the longissimus dorsi to .45 inches of fat at the 12th rib. Cattle (ribeye) muscle. The amount of marbling with less than .30 inches typically have not ranges from devoid (least) to abundant been fed long enough to reach industry (most). Table 4 shows the amount of ribeye size and quality grade targets. Less marbling and the corresponding quality than .25 inches will cause carcasses to grade. Cattle that grade Select+ to Average shrink in the cooler due to dehydration. Choice have a slight to modest degree of Cattle with more than .50-inch rib fat marbling, which is in the middle of the have too much fat or waste that must be marbling scale. trimmed.

Age or maturity of cattle is based on bone Beef that consumers eat is primarily muscle. ossification, lean color, and texture. As Cattle with average to heavy amounts cattle get older, the bone gets harder and of muscling are desirable. Muscular beef more yellow. Maturity scores are from “A” carcasses that fit the weights discussed to “E”. “A” maturity cattle are young, 30 earlier will produce ribeye areas of 12.5 to months of age or less. “E” maturity cattle 14.0 square inches.Typically the ribeye area are usually older cows. Most cattle raised

In beef carcass evaluation, the term quality refers to the characteristics related to the appearance and consumer acceptability of fresh beef cuts. Consumers care about appearance, eating quality, and cost. A bad eating experience will influence the amount of money the consumer will spend on beef. A good eating experience tends to make the cost a less-important factor in buying beef. All beef producers need to provide a high quality product in order to ensure consumers continue to buy beef.

Youth discuss meat quality at a beef education day in Camas County, Idaho.

Photo by Cindy A. Kinder

40 MARCH 2020

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Table 5 Relationship of maturity scores to age of cattle in months.

Maturity

Cindy Kinder is a University of Idaho Extension educator in Camas and Gooding counties and team leader for development of this material. Other authors are J. Benton Glaze, Ph.D., Twin Falls, University of Idaho Extension Beef Specialist, plus University of Idaho Extension educators in various counties: James A. Church, Idaho County; Scott Jensen, Owyhee County; Shannon Williams, Lemhi County; Scott Nash, Bingham County.

Approximate Age

A

9 – 30 months

B

30 – 42 months

C

42 – 72 months

D

72 – 96 months (6 – 8 years)

E

About the authors

More than 96 months (8+ years)

and exhibited by youth are “A” maturity cattle. Table 5 shows the relationship of maturity score to age of the cattle in months.

Beef yield grade is a numerical score from 1 (less fat) to 5 (more fat) that is calculated from 12th rib fat thickness, hot carcass weight, percent kidney, pelvic, and heart fat (KPH) and ribeye area. The yield grade number corresponds to the yield of boneless, closely trimmed retail meat cuts.

Yield Grade 1 cattle are generally leaner and more muscular cattle while Yield Grade 5 cattle have more fat and less muscle.

Consistency and uniformity Knowing what the industry wants provides cattle producers a target to aim for when raising cattle. Producing a consistent and uniform beef animal will provide the consumer with an acceptable product and should earn more money for the producer. In order to raise a consistent product, producers need to know as much as they can about the cattle and eliminate extremes from their operation. Extremes in a cattle operation can be cattle that are too big or too small to hit the industry target, cattle that are a variety of ages, and even cattle with structural problems.

Knowing the cattle is an important way to help eliminate extremes. Keeping records on the cattle is an excellent way to “know the cattle.” Carcass traits are highly heritable and are important to beef cattle quality. Keep track of information about the sires of calves and performance records such as weaning weights, yearling weights, average daily gain (ADG), and carcass information such as ribeye size, 12th rib fat, and marbling. Record keeping will allow producers to enhance the quality of the cattle through genetic selection and help their herd reach the carcass targets.

Refer to Chapter 3 Record Keeping to help determine records that need to be kept on your project animal. www.progressiverancher.com

Learning to identify different parts of a beef carcass is part of a challenge at a Pacific Northwest beef skillathon.

Photo by Cindy A. Kinder

Eliminating extremes Once carcass information has been gathered, it’s time for a cattle producer to put the information to work. Narrow the carcass weight variation in your herd by removing cattle that do not meet qualityproduct targets. Aim for an optimum carcass weight range between 700 to 800 pounds to provide the most flexibility.

120- to 150-day diet. Research shows for the beef product to provide a good eating experience to consumers, cattle need to be fed a high-concentrate diet for at least 120 days. Depending on the age of cattle when they are placed on feed, it usually takes an average of 150 days for cattle to reach their genetic potential for carcass quality.

The longer time on feed increases 12th rib fat and KPH. The amount of time on feed also increases feed costs. Cattle need to be fed and managed to attain industry targets. The amount of time on feed can also affect your herd’s genetic selection. If cattle are genetically selected to be leaner but are on feed longer because they don’t “look” finished, the genetic selection of your herd is not truly represented.

Cull the cow herd by removing the extremes in cow size. This practice, over time, will lead to more uniformity in the calf crop. Choose replacement heifers with average frame scores, rejecting those At the 2004 National Angus Conference below average and those that are too large. at Iowa State University, a vivid reminder The big fancy heifer will be the one to sell of excess waste fat was demonstrated. Iowa rather than the one to keep in the future.

Bulls should be selected to fit a uniform target. When evaluating a bull herd, look for uniformity of type and size. Shorten the calving season and calves can be marketed as a group relatively the same age. Uniformity of the animals should increase if these practices are used.

State University staff members with the assistance of their ultrasound technology identified two pairs of steers for this event.

All were videotaped, and one out of each pair was harvested and then processed into closely trimmed retail cuts.

Steer #612 represents a steer that is very close to an average steer certifying for the Certified Angus Beef program. His quality grade was Average Choice and his calculated yield grade was 3.6. The other steer, #985, was also Average Choice, yield grade 1.6; but was heavier muscled and leaner in 12th rib fat cover by 1/2 inch.

Both steers were within 30 pounds of each other in live weight and 12 pounds in carcass weight. The greatest difference in the two steers was that #985 had the ability to marble and grade with considerably less fat cover than #612. ... continued next page

Eliminating excess fat Excess fat continues to be the number one factor affecting how competitive beef is when compared to other meat sources.

Eliminating excess fat is important to the consumer and the entire beef industry.

Producers can identify and employ the use of genetics to help them produce leaner carcasses without sacrificing marbling.

Cattle that have too much 12th rib fat cost the producer money and could provide a poor eating experience for the consumer.

The average consumer wants to eat lean meat, not fat. Genetic selection for cattle that will have a quality grade of average choice and a yield grade of 2 is attainable.

Photos by Mario De Haro Marti

From steer #612 demonstrating lots of back fat.

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From steer #985 demonstrating little back fat.

MARCH 2020 41

CHAPTER 6 BEEF CARCASS QUALITY

... continued from previous page

Table 6. Carcass data comparison

Steer #612

Steer #985

Live WeightF, lbs.

1,171

1,198

Hot Carcass Weight, lbs.

718

730

12th Rib fat

0.65"

0.15"

Ribeye Area in square inches

11.2"

13.9"

3.6

1.6

Average Choice

Average Choice

$1,067

$1,279

381

473

USDA Yield Grade USDA Quality Grade Carcass Value Amount Retail Product, lbs. (lbs. of meat)

Importance of quality, consistency, no-waste fat

Avoiding dark cutter meat. Another carcass quality defect is dark, firm, and dry beef, (DFD) or dark cutter. It is a condition The battle cry for beefconsistency, industry since the fat determined not followed, beef of carcass will not be Importance of the quality, no-waste afterthe death the animal butsuitable is a for National Beef Quality Audit has been "improve human consumption. result of long-term stress to the live animal.

The battle cry for the beef industry since the National quality and consistency." While this objective is of DFD is one five abscesses percent in the Injections given improperly cantocause Beef Quality Audit has been "improve quality and con- The incidence important to gaining market share for the beef of fed cattle carcasses in the United States. muscle. These abscesses can cause the muscle to have sistency." While this objective is important to gaining industry, don’t forget that breeding and feeding discoloration and lesions. This makes the meat product market share for the beef industry, don’t forget that Factors shown to cause stress include: programs also need to address excess waste fat. unacceptable unless the abscesses are trimmed from breeding and feeding programs also need to address transportation distance, time of year, The good news is that we have genetics that can the muscle. Trimming away abscesses is a loss to the excess waste fat. The good news is that we have genet- weather, and mixing of strange cattle. It is do both, but just not in high enough numbers it takes away from the pounds of ics that can do both, but just not in high enough num- very producer difficultbecause to determine which animals of cattle, yet. meat sold and costs money in labor to remove them. bers of cattle, yet. will produce a DFD carcass. If the animal The muscle surrounding the lesion is also tougher.

Health and and carcass quality. healthof of Health carcass quality.The The health the the animal is allowed to rest and replenish the energy Healthmeat discusses injections and readanimalcancan an onimpact on quality the carcass storesChapter before4 Animal slaughter, with normal have have an impact the carcass of beef. A ing labels.

Please follow guidelines to ensure a highqualityproper of beef.

A proper herd health program herd health program as outlined by a veterinari- color should be produced. quality beef product. as outlined by a veterinarian will help young an will help young producers raise healthy cattle. Sick YouthAvoiding marketdark animals highercarcass chance producers healthy Sick Ifanimals cutter have meat. aAnother quality animalsraise must be treated cattle. appropriately. animal health to be dark cutters because of the stress must products be treated appropriately.

If animal health defect is dark, firm, and dry beef, (DFD) orthey dark cutter. It are used they must be administered according are placed underdetermined at fair time.

Exposing a but products are used they must be administered is a condition after death of the animal to labeled directions or as prescribed by a veterinarian. project animal to new situations during according to labeled directions or as prescribed is a result of long-term stress to the live animal. The Cattle that are not vaccinated or doctored according to the feeding period can help reduce the by a veterinarian.

Cattle that are not vaccinated incidence of DFD is one to five percent of fed cattle guidelines can produce an inferior or unacceptable prodincidence of stress.

The carcasses with the or doctored according to guidelines can carcasses in the United States. uct. If withdrawal times for vaccines or medicines are DFD condition do not pose a threat to produce an inferior or unacceptable product. consumers if eaten. However, the visual dark If withdrawal times for vaccines or medicines Youth Beef Quality Programwill not be PAGE 39 appearance is not appealing to consumers are not followed, theAssurance beef carcass causing these carcasses to lose market value. suitable for human consumption.

Injections given improperly can cause abscesses in the muscle. These abscesses can cause the muscle to have discoloration and lesions.

This makes the meat product unacceptable unless the abscesses are trimmed from the muscle. Trimming away abscesses is a loss to the producer because it takes away from the pounds of meat sold and costs money in labor to remove them. The muscle surrounding the lesion is also tougher. Chapter 4 Animal Health discusses injections and reading labels. Please follow guidelines to ensure a high quality beef product.

42 MARCH 2020

Summary Raising a high quality, consistent beef product for the consumer should be the goal of every beef cattle producer. To achieve the goal, beef producers need to know the value of their cattle based on industry targets, eliminate extremes, keep accurate records, use proper genetic selection, and follow a recommended beef quality assurance program. The goal is attainable but will take time, effort, and attention to detail of those involved in the beef industry.

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References

1997-2003. Meat Evaluation Handbook, American Meat Science Association, page 47. American Meat Science Association, Savoy, IL. Black, Jodi. 2001. Beef Resource Handbook, Ohio State University Extension, section 2, page 15; section 8, page 5. Ohio State University.

Chapman, C.K., editor. 2001. Utah Youth Beef Quality Assurance Program Manual, page 9-11 and 14-15. Utah State University.

Pater, Susan. 2002. Pater developed PR Cupcakes. University of Arizona Extension Agent, 4-H Youth Development.

Ritchie, Harlan, Ph.D. 1990. Live Animal Carcass Evaluation and Selection Manual, page 101. Michigan State University Kendall Hart Publishing.

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