Issuu

VOLUME 51, NUMBER 2

FEBRUARY 2015

Special Insert:

Founded Founded by the by the Forbes Forbes family family in 1945, in 1945, Beckton Beckton RedRed Angus Angus has has maintained maintained the the longest longest continuous continuous performance performance testing testing program program in the in the industry. industry. Beckton Beckton cattle cattle today today are are the the commercial commercial producer’s producer’s solution solution for complete for complete performance, performance, combining combining maternal maternal andand functional functional traits traits together together withwith growth growth andand carcass carcass traits. traits. Beckton-sired Beckton-sired calves calves are are highhigh sellers sellers on video on video sales, sales, andand replacement replacement heifers heifers andand females females siredsired by Beckton by Beckton bullsbulls are are highly highly sought sought afterafter by commercial by commercial cattlemen. cattlemen. Combining Combining moderate moderate sizesize withwith easyeasy fleshing fleshing andand excellent excellent mar-marbling, bling, Beckton Beckton genetics genetics are are alsoalso a #1asource #1 source for producers for producers of grass-fed of grass-fed andand specialty specialty beef.beef. Of equal Of equal importance importance are are the the functional functional traits traits which which result result fromfrom a herd a herd thatthat mustmust produce produce yearyear afterafter yearyear on aonrotation a rotation between between the the highhigh Bighorn Bighorn Mountains Mountains andand dry dry Wyoming Wyoming range. range. Structural Structural soundness soundness andand highhigh fertility fertility are are mandates mandates of the of the environment, environment, while while selection selection for quiet for quiet disposition, disposition, goodgood udders udders andand totaltotal performance performance havehave beenbeen partpart of this of this program program for many for many years. years. Beckton Beckton is dedicated is dedicated to the to the continued continued success success of our of our many many customers. customers. AndAnd our our customers customers return return yearyear afterafter yearyear for the for the genetics genetics thatthat work. work.

The Beckton The Beckton ranchranch officeoffice – – photographed photographed in 1899 in 1899 whenwhen it wasit was George George Beck’s Beck’s original original homehome

TrishTrish and Cam and Cam Forbes Forbes

Beckton Beckton Julian Julian B571B571

HERD STAYABILITY Beckton is the #1 Herd in the breed for Stayability, and has been for many years. 15 of the top 20 sires in the breed for Stayability are Beckton sires or descended from Beckton sires. Of the breed's entire 1,574 sires on the 2014 RAAA Sire Summary, 74 of the highest 100 sires for Stayability are also Beckton sires or descended from Beckton sires. These are the cattle that stay in your herd.

Serving our customers for 69 years, with industry leading genetics and the highest quality cattle. Selling 300 Red Angus 250 Bulls and 50 Heifers

Tuesday, April 14, 2015 At our ranch 10 miles west of Sheridan

Call, write or email for a catalog www.becktonredangus.com becktonwyo@gmail.com 37 Beckton Drive • Sheridan, WY 82801 307-674-6095 • 307-674-8162 - Evenings Fax: 307-672-7281 Cam and Trish Forbes

LOW MAINTENANCE ENERGY This has also been the #1 herd for Low Maintenance Energy requirements for many years. 6 of the top 20 sires in the entire breed for lowest Maintenance Energy EPD are Beckton sires. No other cattle will do a better job cutting your cowherd maintenance requirement and saving you money. EASY CALVING The #1 herd for easy calving, with the best average Calving Ease EPD of any major herd. 13 of the top 20 sires in the breed for low Birth Weight EPD are Beckton sires. No other genetics come close. GROWTH from Birth to Market Beckton bulls are leaders in total rate of growth, from birth to market weight. The average birth weight EPD of our sale bulls last year was minus 4.0, and the average yearling weight EPD is plus 80. Beckton cattle start with low birth weight and reach a high yearling weight - for marketability and less time and cost to market. TOTAL PERFORMANCE IN THE MOST ECONOMICALLY IMPORTANT TRAITS – High reproduction rate; high calving rate; less time and cost to market weight; and lower total feed inputs and feed costs. Plus 69 years of selection for the convenience traits – good dispositions – cowherd fertility – good udders and milk – and structurally sound cattle well adapted to both high elevation in the Bighorn Mountains, and dry Wyoming range conditions.

Official Publication of the Red Angus Association of America

Volume 51, Number 2

Red Angus Ranchers’ Guide to EPDs ...19

American Red Angus Magazine 4201 N I-35 • Denton, Texas 76207 (940)387-3502 • Fax 888-829-6069 RedAngus.org

Publisher/Advertising Director...Kevin LeMaster 10978 Hawthorn Dr. • Clive, IA 50325 (515) 225-0051 • email: kevin@redangus.org Editorial Coordinator..................Tracey Koester email: tracey@redangus.org

Carcass-Trait Concentration Pays Off on Payday ...28

Subscriptions and Circulation....Charli Crawford email: charli@redangus.org Affiliated with National Cattlemen’s Beef Association Beef Improvement Federation U.S. Beef Breed’s Council National Pedigreed Livestock Council

GENERAL INFORMATION

Genetics, Management and Environment Contribute to Bull Fertility ...44

Published ten times annually by the Red Angus Association of America at the national headquarters (4201 N I-35, Denton, TX 76207-3415). A nonpolitical magazine dedicated to the promotion and improvement of breeding, feeding and marketing Red Angus cattle. Subscription rate: U.S., 1 year $30.00; 2 years - $55.00. Canada and Mexico, 1 year - $44.00, 2 years - $82.00 (Payable in U.S. Funds Only). International Air Mail, 1 year - $55.00; 2 years - $100.00 (Payable in U.S. Funds Only). These rates are based on Third Class Bulk mailed from Lubbock, Texas. Add $20.00 per year for First Class.

Body condition score at calving is the key to young cow success ...80

EDITORIAL AND ADVERTISING POLICY

Advertising and editorial content are not limited to any particular class of product or subject matter. However, we reserve the right to refuse publication of any material not within the bounds of high agricultural ethics. While we devote the utmost care to the preparation of each advertisement, we cannot be held responsible for ads received after the ad deadline. Furthermore, the accuracy and content of copy received over the telephone is entirely the responsibility of the advertiser. No adjustment for incorrect ad copy will be considered for ads that are received after the ad deadline or that are placed over the telephone.

All unused reserved advertising space that is not cancelled by the advertising deadline will be billed to the advertiser.

ADVERTISING RATES Space Full Page 1/2 Page 1/3 Page 1/4 Page 1/8 Page

Annual Frequency

1X $630 $380 $270 $190 $ 95

5X $555 $320 $240 $165 $ 85

Breeder Directory 1” Deep $275 per year 2 1/8” Deep $425 per year 3 1/4 “ Deep $575 per year

10X $505 $280 $220 $145 $ 75

Color Black + 1 color: $100 Black + 2 colors: $200 Full Color : $335

4 American Red Angus Magazine ■ February 2015

Board Commentary Association Commentary Marketing Update Member Services Bulletin If you show, be in the know Employee Wages Too High? Red Angus Youth Participate in the Young Stockman Program Sale Reports New Members

6 8 10 16 60 68 98 128 132

Calendar of Events Index to Advertisers

140 142

Information Directories

Cover photo by Lisa Mehlhoff, Sheridan, Montana.

Join us on March 26th! Pasture Proven, Profit Driven Production Sale

160 Bulls

Including 18-month-old Fall born

125 Commercial Females 50 Fall Bred Heifers 50 Spring Pairs 25 Open Yearling Heifers

All The Data, All The Time. Cow weight & BCS on every cow, every year Birth Weight • Weaning Weight • Yearling Weight Carcass Scan data • Heifer Pregnancy Report Large contemporary groups Visual evaluation for structure and udder quality DNA parentage and Genomic enhanced accuracy

Pasture Proven... Profit Driven

2346B N Rd • Strong City, KS 66869 Joe (620) 273-8581 Daniel (620) 340-9774 www.MushrushRedAngus.com

Board Commentary

RAAA Board of Directors President Kim Ford Bertrand, Nebraska thefords@crossdiamondcattle.com

First Vice President/ Area 3 Director - Rocky Mountain Kevin Miller Briggsdale, Colorado kmiller@wigginstel.com Second Vice President/ Region A Director Bob Morton Three Forks, Montana info@gmracattle.com

Region B Director Connie Mushrush Strong City, Kansas redcows@mushrushredangus.com Region C Director Johnny Rogers Roxboro, North Carolina jrrogers1968@gmail.com Area 1 Director - West Leonard Wood Sandpoint, Idaho woodvxranch@aol.com

Area 2 Director - Montana Bruce Ketchum Plevna, Montana ketchum@midrivers.net

Area 4 Director - Southwest Kyley DeVoe Justin, Texas flyingk3cattle@mac.com

Area 5 Director - Northern Plains Steve Koester Steele, North Dakota koester@bektel.com

Area 6 Director - Great Plains Newley Hutchison Canton, Oklahoma newley@chainranch.com Area 7 Director - Northeast John Langdon Benson, North Carolina johnlangdon5@gmail.com

Area 8 Director - Southeast Raymond Prescott Gray Court, South Carolina bullhill2@prtcnet.com Area 9 Director - Midwest Kurt Rich Vinton, Iowa richreds@aol.com

by Kim Ford, RAAA President

Science, humans and Divine intervention knit genetics together Genetics – a whole scientific realm that we talk a lot about. As in, "Boy, I'd like to have more of those genetics in my herd," or "Those are some great genetics!" or, especially after a long family gathering, "Genetics can really bounce in funny ways ..." Genetics All of us in the cattle industry are types of geneticists – if you've ever tried to duplicate a "favorite" cow; if you've ever spent hours poring over a catalog, video or sale ads to find the perfect bull; if you've ever identified that one cow's calf thrives every year no matter what, while another cow has perpetual poor "luck." Yes, we have been given dominion and think we share in the knitting of genes with the Great Geneticist, the Creator of All. When we make these genetic decisions, we have different tools at hand. Our first, and arguably most important tool is our eyes in judging what fits the environment, what fits our sense of aesthetics and what fits in form and function. In a nutshell, is the animal attractive, good doing and sound? The next tool we have are EPDs – Expected Progeny Differences – or the estimates of the genetic value of an animal as a parent. EPDs are calculated using data in complex statistical models and equations. Data is submitted for a calf crop, the data is adjusted to account for differences in the cattle (age of dam, environment, sex, etc.) then run through the models and equations so that animals can be compared. In addition to the EPDs based on data and pedigree, there is also the growing field of genomically enhanced EPDs, which is based on accounting for the genes contributing to different measurements of an animal. These are all great tools that continue to grow, expand and enlarge our predictive ability of cattle. And behind all of the predictions, the human factor is still at work. Humans take the measurements of data, humans submit the data, humans receive the data, calculate the data, analyze the data, and so on. No matter how you look at it, we are

6 American Red Angus Magazine ■ February 2015

still very dependent on each other to accurately predict and describe our livestock. There are two groups in the Red Angus Association of America who contribute greatly to the advancement of the genetic predictability of our cattle. Those are the Breed Improvement Committee and the Technical Committee. I'd be hard pressed to guess the amount of volunteer time, thought and effort that the staff and members on these committees give so freely. The Breed Improvement Committee has spent countless hours over the past year debating, discussing and considering several options to provide tools to improve the description and selection of cattle. Some fruits of their labor are the HerdBuilder and GridMaster indices, as well as the Herd Navigator DNA test. The Technical Committee is charged with making sure that the numbers make statistical sense and provide accurate descriptions. You know that required statistics class you "got through" in school? Well, apparently the guys on the Tech Committee really "got" that class and went back for more. They throw around terms like, "regression" and "deviation" (among a lot of others that I don't even remember from my remedial stats class). And if you've ever heard one of those conversations, they aren't just using those terms to make an impression – they're actually having a meaningful conversation! After the Tech Committee has studied, pored over and discussed an EPD run, we can all have confidence that, when they have approved a new release of EPDs, it is as accurate and trustworthy as it can be. So to wrap up, genetics is a scientific business, and there is a lot of scientific and nonscientific human effort at work in quantifying our cattle. From a keen eye to a sharp pencil; from debate of ideas to spreadsheets of trends and numbers; from a smudged birth weight in a calving book to a decimal in a shiny catalog, there are hours of work behind each and every number. And the bottom line is, at the end of the day, we must remember to appreciate the effort of others as we work together ... and at all times praise the Divine effort at work, too. ■

The longest running Red Angus Production Sale in the Northern Plains....

r r e e b v e Bi Fe Progeny Sell!

Bieber Roosevelt W384 Reg# 1311829

Bieber Rollin Deep Y118 Reg# 1436844

Bieber Hard Drive Y120 Reg# 1436718

Paringa Iron Ore E27 Reg# 1562199

40th Annual Bull & Female Sale March 5th at the Ranch

This may be the opportunity your cowherd needs to find more profit.

Our bull offering is deeper than ever! 330 Yearling Red Angus Bulls

20 Yearling Black Red Angus Bulls 10 Yearling Simmental Hybrid Bulls 50 Open Registered Red Angus Heifers 70 Open Commercial Red Angus Heifers View our auction and bid online at DVAuction.com Free service -- NO buyer premium

1976

Bieber Stormer Z433 Reg# 1522532

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Bieber Rouse Samurai X22 Reg# 1042135

Beckton Epic R397 Reg# 1617230

Andras Fusion R236 Reg# 1506931

Schuler Endurance 2101Z Reg# 1515451

2015

LSF RAB Exclusive 2793Z Reg# 1551325

Visit us at www.BieberRedAngus.com for more information!

Association Commentary

RAAA National Office

4201 N. Interstate 35 Denton, TX 76207 (940) 387-3502 • Fax (888) 829-6069 Email: info@redangus.org RedAngus.org

RAAA National Staff Chief Executive Officer Twig Marston Ext. 8 • twig@redangus.org

Director of Breed Improvement Larry Keenan Ext. 12 • larry@redangus.org Accounting Director Jeanene McCuistion Ext. 11 • jeanene@redangus.org

Director of Commercial Marketing Gary Fike Ext. 20 • gary@redangus.org

Director of Business Development Harold Bertz harold@redangus.org Marketing Programs Coordinator Chelsea Poe Ext. 4 • chelsea@redangus.org

Commercial Marketing Specialist Barrett Carlisle Ext. 16 • barrett@redangus.org

Media and Public Relations Coordinator Laurin Spraberry Ext. 17 • laurin@redangus.org ARA Publisher/Advertising Director Kevin LeMaster (515) 225-0051 kevin@redangus.org ARA Editorial Coordinator Tracey Koester tracey@redangus.org

Junior Programs Coordinator Dawn Bernhard (515) 679-4006 dawn@redangus.org

Database and Registration Consultant Kenda Ponder kenda@redangus.org Member Accounts Charli Crawford Ext. 3 • charli@redangus.org

Registry Manager Angelia Brooks Ext. 5 • angelia@redangus.org Registry Specialists Fax: (888) 829-6069

Lucila “Lucy” Meyer Ext. 7 • lucy@redangus.org Kay Hurley Ext. 6 • kay@redangus.org

Lori Ireland Ext. 18 • lori@redangus.org

DNA/Breed Improvement Projects Coordinator Halla Pfeiff Ext. 10 • halla@redangus.org

Interim Junior Programs Coordinator Katie Teague Ext. 14 • katie@redangus.org

by Twig Marston, RAAA Chief Executive Officer

2015 promises excitement for Red Angus The 2015 Red Angus spring bull sale season promises to be exciting. The excitement began during the 2014 fall season when Red Angus began printing a pair of science-based selection indices and continues to build momentum as the season progresses. Immediately after the release of the Red Angus indices, bull buyers added these valuable tools to their genetic toolboxes. They soon learned that along with the full arsenal of Red Angus EPDs, the selection indices can be used to customize a herd bull battery that fills their needs. Regardless of marketing plans, production goals and feed resources, Red Angus breeders are providing the right information for their customers to make proper herd bull purchases. The commitment of Red Angus Association of America members to provide you with the best objectively described cattle in the industry is what lead to the development of both the HerdBuilder and GridMaster selection indices. The introduction of both indices along with the solid platform of EPDs gives you the ability to optimize your operation and maximize your profits. HerdBuilder is designed to assist those cow-calf operations that retain replacement females while remaining progeny are sold on a quality-based carcass grid. The GridMaster index is designed to increase profits from marketing calf crops that will excel in the feedlot and ultimately hang a premium quality carcass. Both the indices are built to increase profitability of commercial beef operations by aligning production goals to genetic merit. This evolution of Red Angus genetic evaluation started with the dedication of the founding herds to recording and

8 American Red Angus Magazine ■ February 2015

utilizing performance data. With over 60 years of performance data you can be assured that the genetic values you have at your disposal are backed by generations of information. Today, Red Angus breeders have expanded the amount of information submitted on their herds so that the important reproduction, cowherd sustainability and carcass traits are at your fingertips. Beginning in December of 2012, the first genomically enhanced EPDs were reported on Red Angus cattle. Since then our breeders have religiously built an impressive bank of genomic information. Nearly 4,000 animals have already been tested for genomic merit during the first six months of our fiscal year. That is a marked increase when compared to 4,300 being tested during the entire previous year. Building a solid genomic database has also lead to the development of Herd Navigator. Herd Navigator is an affordable, genomic test that is designed exclusively for Red Angusinfluenced replacement heifers. As genetics and animal breeding advances, the Red Angus breed has been able to capture the science and develop better genetic tools for you. Once you have made your bull purchases be sure to take advantage the Red Angus marketing programs, Feeder Calf Certification Program (FCCP) yellow tags and our Choice+ Grid. Purchasing and retaining breeding stock is challenging. Rest assured Red Angus is here to help you make the best decisions based on sound science, breeder commitment and profitability.

22nd Annual Spring Fling Sale March 28th, 2015! Yearling Bulls & Females

Marketing Update

by Chelsea Poe, Marketing Programs Coordinator

February has arrived and bull sale catalogs will soon be in your mailbox. Friends will gather at their favorite seedstock sale and compete for genetics that will shape their future cowherd. Consistent choices made from diligent preparation prior to arrival at the sale are key. Before selecting bulls to move your cowherd in a desired direction, you need to have a marketing end-point in mind. Simply stated, to move forward you first have to know where you’re going. Careful and educated decisions help guide your ranch toward profitability. RAAA has delivered multiple tools within the last six months to help you in this process. The HerdBuilder and GridMaster indices will make the decisionmaking process easier. The purpose of an index (plural – indices) is to estimate differences in an operation’s overall profitability resulting from a particular selection decision. In developing an index to evaluate differences in profitability within an operation, assumptions must be made regarding the genetics of the cowherd (ex: average weaning weight) as well as economic values (ex: sale price of cull cows).

Sticking to Red Angus Basics since 1988!

Ron & Esther Fischer (406) 632-5598 Box 2913 Harlowton, MT 59036 fischerra@mtintouch.net

www.FischerRedAngus.com

Unique & Exciting Pedigrees with Progeny from: Red SSS Soldier 365W • Fischer Indeed 293 Fischer Indeed 242 • Fischer C'mon Man 152 RCRA Tailgate 10Y • Fischer No Doubt 221 Brylor WRAZ Makn Waves 39X

GridMaster Index Producers who place emphasis on the GridMaster Index in their selection decisions will not only experience an increase in their operation’s profitability; but as well can expect to see an increased number of calves recognized as Grid Master Award winners. The GridMaster Index is built using the following production scenario: • Red Angus bulls mated to cows • All progeny sold on a quality-based carcass grid Thus, Marbling, Yield Grade and growth EPDs are the traits of primary importance in the GridMaster Index. HerdBuilder Index As the name indicates, implementation of the HerdBuilder Index will assist producers in building profitable herds. The HerdBuilder Index is built using the following production scenario: • Red Angus bulls mated to cows and heifers • Replacement heifers retained from within the herd • All remaining progeny sold on a quality-based carcass grid For instance, if you are not retaining females in your operation and are simply selling your calves as feeders, then you could utilize the GridMaster index when looking at 2015 bull catalogs. On the other hand, a rancher retaining females as replacements will want to pay more attention to the HerdBuilder index.

10 American Red Angus Magazine ■ February 2015

Prior to arriving on sale day, take time to evaluate your current cowherd and understand your market end point. Identify your strengths and weaknesses. This should reveal traits that are the most economically relevant within your herd. ■

29AR0258 PREMIER

BROWN PREMIER X7876

RAAA 1379610 1A

BECKTON NEBULA P P707 x 5L DESTINATION 893-6215

The PREMIER Curve Bender & Carcass Sire âœ” $PRQJ DQ XOWUD HOLWH JURXS RI SURYHQ VLUHV UDQNLQJ LQ WKH WRS RI WKH EUHHG IRU ERWK +HUGEXLOGHU *ULGPDVWHU ,QGH[HV âœ” 35(0,(5 SURJHQ\ DQG KLV VHUYLFH KDYH FRPPDQGHG DWWHQWLRQ DURXQG WKH FRXQWU\ DQG KDYH EHHQ KLJKO\ VRXJKW DIWHU âœ” 3URJHQ\ DUH WKLFN PDGH FRUUHFW ZHOO EDODQFHG DQG FOHDQ IURQWHG âœ” ([FHSWLRQDO (3'V SDFNDJLQJ ORZ ELUWK ZHLJKW DQG KLJK JURZWK ZLWK DGGHG FDUFDVV PHULW CED

BW WW

MILK

HPG CEM

STAY MARB YG

+10 .51

-3.9 +76 .60 .54

+119 .55

+10 .43

+2 .52

+12 .38

+18 .42

+8 .50

REA

FAT

+1.11 +.05 +35 +.22 -.01 .49 .39 .44 .45 .47

+211

+57

SPRING 2015 TOP 35%

29AR0257 OSCAR X28

FEDDES OSCAR X28

RAAA 1368605 1A

RED CROWFOOT OLEâ€™S OSCAR x BIEBER ROMERO 9136

Next Step Calving Ease and Maternal âœ” 2/(Â·6 26&$5Â·V EHVW VRQ IRU ERWK GLUHFW DQG PDWHUQDO FDOYLQJ HDVH DQG VWLOO DQ LQGXVWU\ OHDGHU IRU JURZWK DQG PDUEOLQJ âœ” 2IIHUV PRUH GHSWK RI ULE PXVFOH VKDSH DQG FDOYLQJ HDVH WKDQ KLV VLUH âœ” +LV GDP LV D IDEXORXV \RXQJ FRZ WKDW LV ZRUNLQJ WRZDUG GRQRU VWDWXV âœ” +LV 0*' )HGGHV 6OHHN 6 LV D IDYRULWH LQ WKH )HGGHV 5HG $QJXV GRQRU SHQ

CED

BW WW

MILK

HPG CEM

STAY MARB YG

+12 .46

-4.6 +67 .60 .54

+112 .52

+25 .35

+2 .40

+8 .33

+10 .20

+30 +.04 +.02 .42 .25 .36

+13 .37

+.73 +.12 .26 .28

REA

FAT

+146

+55

SPRING 2015 TOP 35%

29AR0260 GOLD MINE

BROWN GOLD MINE A7610

RAAA 1607046 1A

PARINGA IRON ORE E27 x 1BWJ JULIAN 17P

Eureka - A Genetic GOLD MINE âœ” 2XWFURVV SHGLJUHH VWDFNHG IRU FDOYLQJ HDVH JURZWK DQG FDUFDVV PHULW âœ” 5DQNV LQ WKH WRS RI WKH EUHHG RU EHWWHU RQ WUDLWV RU LQGH[HV KLV LQFUHGLEOH EDODQFH RIIHUV WRS TXDUWLOH SHUIRUPDQFH RQ GLIIHUHQW WUDLWV âœ” %RWK D PDWHUQDO DQG FDUFDVV OHDGHU UDQNLQJ LQ WKH WRS RI WKH EUHHG IRU ERWK WKH +HUG%XLOGHU DQG *ULG0DVWHU ,QGH[HV âœ” 3RVWHG KLV RZQ %: :: <: ,0) DQG 5($ UDWLRV CED

BW WW

MILK

HPG CEM

STAY MARB YG

+9 .30

-2.9 +63 .40 .35

+113 .35

+20 .20

-7 .00

+11 .00

+12 +1.08 +.07 +33 +.35 +.02 .00 .26 .24 .29 .23 .33

+9 .25

REA

FAT

+159

+54

SPRING 2015 TOP 35%

Start 2015 off with the most exciting genetics the breed has to offer. To get your 2015 Sire Directory or order contact your ABS Representative or call 1.800.ABS.STUD Â‹ $%6 *OREDO ,QF Â‡ 5LYHU 5RDG 'H)RUHVW :, Â‡ Â‡ ZZZ DEVEHHI FRP

Up & Coming Prospects BIEBER SPARTACUS A193 Reg#: 1617230| 014AR02073 SAMURAI x HIGH NOON

SPARTACUS

Spartacus is a moderate, wide-based bull that offers a big spread from birth to yearling with a Marbling EPD in the top 1% of the breed. CED

MILK

HPG

CETM

STAY

MARB

REA

FAT

-2.9

118

.99

.18

.35

.06

157

.31

.40

.36

.26

.19

.00

.32

.01

.28

.26

.30

.26

.34

STORMER

BIEBER STORMER Z433 Reg#: 1522532 | 014AR02066 CYCLONE x MAKIN HAY

Stormer is an exceptional performance prospect with a YW EPD in the top 4% as well as exceptional carcass quality as indicated by his Grid Master Index score in the top 5%. CED

MILK

HPG

CETM

STAY

MARB

REA

FAT

-2.9

134

.81

.11

.24

.00

105

.36

.56

.45

.28

.04

.24

.38

.39

.33

.28

.38

.27

.36

GMRA STETSON 2240 Reg#: 1525314 | 014AR02068 MISSION STATEMENT x HOBO 79E

STETSON

Stetson is a balanced trait calving ease prospect that excels for Stayability and the Herd Builder index. CED

MILK

HPG

CETM

STAY

MARB

REA

FAT

-5.8

103

.25

-.02

.37

.00

174

.43

.58

.51

.49

.31

.19

.28

.40

.46

.36

.31

.40

.31

.39

REAL MCCOY

BIEBER REAL MCCOY Y124 Reg#: 1436794 | 014AR02070 H HUGHES x HIGH NOON

Real McCoy is a high performance sire with excellent carcass EPDs. CED

MILK

HPG

CETM

STAY

MARB

REA

FAT

-0.1

116

-2

.72

.05

.34

0.0

158

.43

.74

.65

.63

.29

.04

.25

.37

.39

.54

.43

.50

.52

Contact Your Local Accelerated Genetics Representative Today!

Focused on the things that matter! Spring 2015 EPDs

1-800-451-9275 | INFO@ACCELGEN.COM | WWW.ACCELGEN.COM

BULL & FEMALE SALE ANNUAL

FEB25 ; 100 Females

FEB26 ; 150 Bulls

3:30 PST at Hamley Slickfork

12:30 PST at the Ranch in Pendleton

Saloon in Pendleton, Oregon

Red Angus • Red & Black SimAngus™

LORENZEN RED TRAVELER B537

LORENZEN JUST RIGHT 4920

Traveler grandson x Commitment

Redemption x Lancer A664

LORENZEN REDEMPTION 4937

LORENZEN BULL MARKET 4003

Redemption x Packer

Lorenzen Joshua x Lorenzen Pendleton

Sampling of Lorenzen Ranches RED ANGUS BULLS ID

REG

SIRE

CED

MARB

REA

4920 B537 4012 4021 4514 4518 4901 4990 4003 4937

1685223 1680041 1713062 1713085 1709191 1709180 1685210 1670653 1713089 1685246

REDEMPTION TRAVELER REDEMPTION EXPECT CANYON OLY 554T EPIC CONQUEST CONQUEST LORENZEN JOSHUA REDEMPTION

10 4 11 2 3 -1 10 8 3 8

-3.4 -0.8 -3.4 0.3 -3.2 1.7 -3.1 -2.7 0.3 -2.7

67 59 64 87 62 71 67 65 81 68

114 95 106 135 99 115 104 103 119 117

0.59 0.83 0.54 0.56 0.54 0.62 0.6 0.82 0.71 0.45

0.32 0.13 0.27 0.29 0.22 0.3 0.26 0.15 0.33 0.4

189 179 156 119 71 114 129 135 127 169

52 52 52 53 52 51 53 54 53 51

www.lorenzenranches.com | Larry Lorenzen 541.276.6108 | Sam Lorenzen 541.215.2687

LORENZEN COMPOSITE BULLS

LORENZEN MAGIC CROSS 4101

LORENZEN PRIME BEEF 4935

Lorenzen Black Magic x Lucky Charm

Prime Beef x Beckton Jules

3/4 RA - 1/4 SIM

1/2 RA - 1/2 SIM

LORENZEN BLACK KING

LORENZEN NIGHTRIDE 4805

Beef King son

Nightride x Predestined

1/2 SIM - 1/2 AN

3/8 SIM - 5/8 AN

Sampling of Lorenzen Ranches Red SimAngus™ Bulls ID

REG

SIRE

CED

MARB

REA

007 4935 4932

1713065 1685204 1685205

LORENZEN JOSHUA PRIME BEEF PRIME BEEF

6 4 6

-1.1 -1.0 -1.1

75 78 67

110 113 89

0.46 0.4 0.36

0.33 0.55 0.75

137 105 103

51 51 48

REG

SIRE

CED

MARB

REA

API

B637

2929545

HOOKS YUKON BOY

12.1

-0.4

0.61

0.91

147.6 80.7

Sampling of Lorenzen Ranches Black SimAngus™ Bulls ID

REG

SIRE

CED

4805 4801 4811 4830

(2871823) (2872963) (2871829) (2873283)

NIGHTRIDE MR SELECTIVE NIGHTRIDE PARAMOUNT

17.5 17.4 19.5 19.9

-3 -3.9 -4.3 -4.7

MARB

REA

61.4 105.4 47.7 79.9 43.5 72.3 52.1 92.2

0.84 0.86 0.78 0.79

0.66 0.83 0.76 0.35

API

178.3 79.2 181.3 88.3 198.6 87.3 183.3 84.3

LORENZEN YEARLING HEIFERS

LORENZEN CONNIE B019

35 YEARLING HEIFERS Red Angus • Red SimAngus™ 65 COMMERCIAL HEIFERS Red Angus • Red SimAngus™ • Black Angus

Traveler granddaughter x Commitment

Sampling of Lorenzen Ranches

RED ANGUS ELITE HEIFERS LRA HONEY 4O5B Redemption x Leading Edge

REG

SIRE

CED

MARB

REA

414 405B B019 1427

1713073 1670652 1680036 1685239

JOSHUA REDEMPTION TRAVELER grandson PROMISE

7 11 4 6

-0.4 -4.5 -0.8 -2.7

83 57 59 66

126 96 95 104

0.46 0.65 0.83 0.99

0.37 0.42 0.13 0.1

127 185 179 131

52 52 52 55

Member Services Update Two of the most important times of the year just happen to co-exist for most operations - calving season and bull sale season. These seasons are both timeconsuming, economically significant and chaotic. To make both a smooth process, don’t forget to take advantage of all options and opportunities provided to you by RAAA. To help with the process a few options are mentioned below.

Animal Identification The International Calving Year letter for 2015 is ‘C,’ and many find this beneficial for tag and identification numbers, i.e. animal ID. How and even if the letter is used depends upon the ranch’s preferred style. One suggestion would be to place in front of the ID number to identify bull calf, ex: C101, or if it’s a heifer calf to place the letter behind the number ex: 101C. To view a list of other year letters go to redangus.org/registration. Ownership Transfer Transferring animals after sale day can provide many benefits to the customer and producer. Many of the benefits provided to the commercial bull buyer, will keep them coming back to choose Red Angus. It also is a simple process to have completed by the RAAA.

Transfer Submission Options 1) On the back of the animal’s Certificate of Registration is the Application for Transfer. The following information will be needed for transfers: • Seller’s or authorized representative’s signature • Buyer’s name and address • Date of sale • If a female is bred, the breeding information must be provided • For multiple owners, include the percent owned by each • Send to the National Office to have the transfer completed 2) Selling part interest in an animal requires a multiple-owner form be completed, which can be found on the website for your convenience under registration forms. 3) Transfers may also be submitted online through Member Data-REDS. To submit transfers this way, the seller must access their Member Data-REDS account online, go to Transfers and enter the same information as above, with a few additional steps to complete. Additional steps include “save information to proof,” “review the proof” and “submit to RAAA.”

Benefits of Transferring First, when completing the transfer process, submit transfers within 6o days of sale date to avoid late fees, otherwise transfers will generate charges.

An easy way to access the member information is to use the Data Searches and Tools located on the RAAA website. This allows sellers to verify the address and contact information of RAAA members to help make the transfer process easy and quick.

Second, transferring the animal to the new buyer takes the animal out of your inventory. This is most important for females, due the fact that females (assessed at 16 months of age or greater) will be subject to Total Herd Reporting assessment fees when active on your inventory.

If the buyer is not a member of RAAA staff will create a buyer account for them when transfers are received. Note: Buyer names and addresses may be submitted to the Member Services Department for account numbers prior to submitting an application(s) for transfer.

Third, the new buyer will receive a free year subscription to ARA Magazine, provided the buyer is not already a member of the Association. Finally, transferring bulls allows for the new buyer to participate in the RAAA’s Feeder Calf Certification Program (FCCP) or Allied Access Program. It also allows the buyer to utilize the Herd Navigator DNA test for commercial females and to sell FCCP calves on the Choice+ Grid. For more information about these programs and services go to RedAngus.org/marketing. 16 American Red Angus Magazine ■ February 2015

4) Batch Transfer forms are available for members to transfer six animals per page and are available online at redangus.org/registration/forms/batch transfer. 5) Another option available to complete transfers is the offering of an Excel spreadsheet to make transferring animals easier than using the website for members that are registering 20-plus head at a time. Keep in mind this method does not have checks and balances like the website. For more information about this option or if you have any other questions, please don’t hesitate to contact the Member Services Department.

Join us at the Ranch 100 Red Angus Yearling Bulls for our March 6th 150 Home Grown Commercial Heifers Select Group of Fancy Registered Heifers Production Sale! Bulls Like These Sell!

AI Sires Include...

BROWN JYJ REDEMPTION Y1334 #1441805 FEDDES BIG SKY R9 #1025891 FRITZ GRAND OSCAR 8014 #1255315 HXC CONQUEST 4405P #975924 LSF CONQUEROR 0026X #1368793 MESSMER PACKER S008 #1109534 NBAR HAMLEY S913 #1102983 RED NORTHLINE ROCKSTAR 911U #1267725 SCHURRTOP SYMBOL 5702 AN #15360015 SILVEIRAS MISSION NEXUS 1378 #1410853 SIX MILE RAWHIDE 97Z #1605421 TR COLT 45 UT806 #1240434

SutherlinFarms RedAngus Bob & Laurie Sutherlin Chad & Lacey Sutherlin

415 Spooner Creek Lane • Stevensville, MT (406) 642-3487 • Cell (406) 369-1202 Email suthfarm@gmail.com

www.sutherlinfarms.com

All Bulls 50K Tested!

Broadcast Live Online at

Member Services Update

Please be aware of the following THR Deadlines for February: • Spring Herd Inventories • Fall Heifer Exposure

JANSSEN RED ANGUS

Affordable, Balanced Genetics is our program.

DNA Helpful Tip of the Month To speed up and help minimize errors, consider purchasing a barcode scanner. Barcode scanners can be purchased at any office supply store. Each DNA sample that is submitted to the RAAA on a blood or hair card should have a barcode (for semen samples use cane code), and should be included on the DNA order form. A bar code scanner is compatible for Excel spreadsheets. This gives RAAA and the lab a unique number to identify a specific sample and help avoid sample mix up. This can come in handy if multiple or an incorrect sample may have been submitted. By including the barcode in the spreadsheet sent to the National Office, it minimizes the process time to a simple verification of samples to the form information.

Conveniently located in Central Kansas. Call for your catalog today!

Jack & Roxie Janssen

Home (620)824-6426 • Cell (620)562-7041

Travis & Delane Janssen

Home (620)824-6492 • Cell (620)562-8361 www.janssenredangus.com

Yearling Bull Sale on March 21st! Join us for our

Seedstock Producers with a Commercial Focus! 18 American Red Angus Magazine ■ February 2015

Important to Submit Carcass Data The combination of reduced carcass and ultrasound data submission has the potential to significantly reduce the reliability of RAAA carcass EPDs. While ultrasound data is useful in estimating animals’ genetic merit, one must realize that ultrasound is an indicator trait for the true Economically Relevant Trait – actual carcass on the rail. RAAA has developed a carcass data incentive program to place emphasis on quality of data as well as collection of additional data points to increase the amount of carcass data submitted for use in genetic evaluations. Monetary incentives will be based on level of participation and a combination of contemporary group size and recorded pedigree. For more information about this program, please contact Gary Fike, Harold Bertz or Larry Keenan.

The Ranchers’ Guide to EPDs Profitable. Simple. Sustainable. With the goal of simplifying ranchers’ profit equation, Red Angus continues blazing new trails in the pursuit of providing commercial producers with concise genetic predictions.

Based on the concept of Economically Relevant Traits (ERTs), producers are equipped with tools that allow for selection on traits that directly impact profitability. These tools simplify the selection process, and arm producers with the ability to better identify range bulls whose genetics will more positively impact profitability. Red Angus delivers technology in a producer-friendly package. Red Angus’ inclusion of genomic data into EPDs provides genetic predictions with unsurpassed dependability. Expressing these EPDs on a multi-breed base allows for simplified selection decisions regardless of desired breed composition. EPDs are the most reliable predictors of an animal’s true genetic merit. As the only major beef breed to mandate Total Herd Reporting (THR), Red Angus EPDs have the built-in advantage of being calculated from 20 years of complete contemporary group data. EPDs have “fast-tracked” beef cattle improvement and removed much of the guesswork associated with selecting range bulls.

EPDs: What, Why & How? EPDs predict differences in progeny performance, and are calculated from comparisons within Contemporary Groups. (A group of calves that were born in the same year, calving season, herd, and are of the same sex and were fed and managed alike.) EPDs have a clear advantage over less sophisticated predictors such as actual weights or within-herd ratios. Actual and adjusted weights are affected by environment, nutrition and management. Contemporary group ratios are an improvement, as they account for these environmental variables. However, they do not incorporate comparative performance data on related individuals in countless herds throughout the country. Red Angus EPDs account for these sources of variation in performance as well as mating bias (which cows were bred to which bulls). The power of these genetic predictions is multiplied by including every contemporary group from herds in the entire Red Angus breed.

Absolute performance is not predictable... Relative performance is. For Example: Suppose your old herd bull has a yearling weight EPD of 50. You buy a new bull with a yearling weight EPD of 70. How much will the new bull boost your calves’ yearling weights?

Compare EPDs across breeds. All animals in Red Angus and Simmental’s multi-breed database are described using the same language. That is, their EPDs are published on the same multi-breed base and scale. Selection for Growth (BW, WW, YW, Milk) and Carcass (MARB, YG, CW, REA, FAT) EPDs will be greatly simplified as commercial customers will be able to directly compare these EPDs across breeds, as well as registered hybrids/composite seedstock.

The Answer... We cannot predict how much performance will change from one year to the next because of varying environmental conditions (rainfall, temperature, available feedstuffs, etc). However, we do know this: the calves raised in the same contemporary group sired by your new bull will have the genetics to weigh an average of 20 pounds more at 365 days of age as compared to calves sired by the old bull.

Understanding ACCURACY

Red Angus EPDs are often presented with a corresponding accuracy value, which measures the strength of the relationship between the genetic prediction (EPD) and true genetic value. Accuracies are reported as a decimal number from zero to one. As accuracy value approaches 1.0, the EPD is "accurately" or closely estimating the true genetic merit of an animal for a given trait. Although low-accuracy EPDs are less reliable when compared to those of proven sires, independent research demonstrates EPDs to be the most meaningful indicator of animals’ true genetic merit. While "perfect" accuracies of 1.0, are never achieved, many heavily used Red Angus sires have accuracies greater than 0.9 (some as high as .99).

THR Data.

Genomic Data.

Multi-Breed Data.

Rancher-Trusted EPDs.

EPDs are only as good as the data used to calculate them. This fact led Red Angus to implement Total Herd Reporting (THR) over two decades ago, and Red Angus continues to be the only breed association to mandate THR for the collective Red Angus cowherd. In a nutshell, THR requires the annual production of every Red Angus cow and the performance of every calf raised through weaning to be reported. Only THR allows for the accurate calculation of fertility and longevity traits, which are the largest drivers in cowherd profitability. With THR, we know which daughters that were exposed to breeding delivered a calf. With THR, we can better predict which bulls’ daughters are able to bring a calf to the weaning pen year after year. Ranchers make more accurate selection decisions and ultimately more profit when they buy bulls whose EPDs are backed by THR.

Jump Starting Accuracy Red Angus’ strong foundation of THR data combines with genomic data from 50K tests to provide EPDs with unsurpassed reliability. The information gained from genomic data can be as informative as a bull’s first calf crop, or a cow’s lifetime production record. There’s nothing new to learn - this powerful combination of information will simply be delivered to producers in the form of higher accuracy EPDs. Recognizing the importance of heterosis to the success of the beef industry, Red Angus partnered with the American Simmental Association in forming International Genetic Solutions (IGS). Through IGS, Red Angus stakeholders who utilize crossbreeding are provided with true multi-breed EPDs that are calculated using the merged databases of Red Angus, Simmental, Gelbvieh and Limousin. This collaboration allows for the precise determination of heritable genetics and delivers that information to producers in the form of EPDs that can be directly compared, regardless of breed composition.

Cowherd - Building Profit starts at Reproduction! Placing selection pressure on traits that will have a direct impact on your marketed product (weaned calves, yearlings, carcasses sold in the meat) can certainly increase your revenue on a per-calf basis. However, in order to achieve the higher goal of increased revenue per cow exposed, selection pressure must be placed on cowherd-building traits. Red Angus' commitment to Total Herd Reporting allows for the measurement of each female’s lifetime production history; from being exposed to breeding as a yearling, to measuring females’ productive lifespan. Implementing these tools into your selection decisions will have a long-term impact on your operation’s profitability.

Top 50%

Top 25% Top 10%

CED EPDs

Top 50%

Top 25% Top 10%

HPG EPDs

10 Top 50%

Top 25% Top 10%

CEM EPDs

4 Top 50%

Top 25% Top 10%

ME EPDs

-3

-6

Calving Ease Direct (CED) - predicts the probability of calves being born unassisted out of 2-year-old heifers. Producers want live calves - born unassisted. Selecting on actual birth weight is flawed; it is influenced by non-genetic factors such as nutrition and weather (ambient temperature). While BW EPD removes these non-genetic factors, Red Angus’ CED EPD is the best predictor of calving ease. The CED EPD includes variation in BW plus other influential genetic factors such as gestation length, calf shape, etc. Heifer Pregnancy (HPG) - predicts the probability of heifers conceiving to calve at two years of age. Many breeds offer genetic predictions of yearling bull scrotal circumference as an indicator of age of puberty. While puberty is a prerequisite, many factors influence pregnancy rate. Red Angus’ HPG EPD offers a tool which selects for what is economically relevant to ranchers - pregnant heifers. Calving Ease Maternal (CEM) - predicts the probability of a given animal's daughters calving unassisted at two years of age. Replacement heifers should be able to calve on their own. Red Angus' CEM EPD offers the industry's most reliable prediction to address that concern. It includes not only the predisposition for a female to calve unassisted, but also her contribution to her calf's traits (birth weight, calf shape, etc.) that make it more likely to be born unassisted. Maintenance Energy (ME) - predicts differences in daughters’ maintenance energy requirements and is expressed in Mcal/Month. Recognizing that 70% of cowherd feed costs are burned up in maintaining weight and condition, Red Angus’ ME EPD allows for the selection of bulls whose daughters will require less feed; thus, reducing cowherd expenses. Include selection pressure for ME EPD to ensure feed costs don’t get out of line when selection is made for greater performance and production.

EPD percentiles reflect non-parent animals under two years of age

Traits

Excel in Stayability... Excel in Profitability! Improving Stayability enhances cowherd profitability by increasing the percentage of females that deliver pounds and value to the weaning pen without extra labor or feed – and do it year after year.

Red Angus’ Stayability (STAY) EPD is a selection tool to improve overall cowherd efficiency through reducing replacement rate. Cows that stay productive, are problem free and last longer mean a larger percentage of heifers can be cash cropped, instead of developed as replacements. How is Stayability EPD Calculated? THR provides the foundation for a reliable Stayability EPD. Once a female enters the productive cowherd she is monitored annually for her productive ability. Only

Stayability (STAY) – predicts the probability of a bull’s daughters remaining productive until at least six years of age. Why six? That’s how long it takes a female to breakeven given all the expenses of development. Top 50%

Top 25% Top 10%

STAY EPDs

females that produce a calf every year up until at least six years of age are given a positive observation. Females that miss a calf or are culled for any reason including soundness, production, disposition, body condition, etc. are given a negative observation. Mandatory collection of Stayability observations from all Red Angus herds provides ample data for the prediction of a bull’s ability to sire Ranch-Tested – Rancher-Trusted cowherds.

EPD percentiles reflect non-parent animals under two years of age

Traits that add weight to your bank account! Realizing the vast majority of commercial operationsâ€™ revenue comes from the sale of pounds, Red Angus strives to provide industry-leading genetic predictions for growth. This can only be achieved through the implementation of Total Herd Reporting. Red Angus further ensures the reliability of performance data through the use of data filters, which eliminates data outside biological norms. The net result of these efforts - no surprises on pay day.

Top 50%

Top 25% Top 10%

BW EPDs

-1.3 Top 50%

-2.7

-6.2

Top 25% Top 10%

WW EPDs

57 Top 50%

Top 25% Top 10%

YWâ€ˆEPDs

89 Top 50%

101

112

Top 25% Top 10%

MILK EPDs

Birth Weight EPD (BW) predicts the difference, in pounds, for birth weight, and is also used in the calculation of Red Angus' Calving Ease Direct (CED) EPD. Weaning Weight EPD (WW) predicts the difference, in pounds, for weaning weight (adjusted to age of dam and a standard 205 days of age). This is an indicator of growth from birth to weaning. Yearling Weight EPD (YW) predicts the expected difference, in pounds, for yearling weight (adjusted to a standard 365 days of age). This is an indicator of growth from birth to yearling. Milk EPD (MILK) predicts the difference in maternal production of an individual animal's daughters as expressed by the weaning weight of their calves.

EPD percentiles reflect non-parent animals under two years of age

Bred-in Carcass Value... Red Angus is preferred among producers who retain ownership of their calf crop. This demand is driven from consistent feedyard performance combined with reaping premiums from value-based grids. Furthering the mission of providing genetic predictions that directly impact producer profitability, Red Angus recently added Carcass Weight (CW) and Yield Grade (YG) to its arsenal of ERTs. Incorporation of these selection tools have the power to take your profitability to the next level.

Top 50%

Top 25% Top 10%

MARB EPDs

0.45 Top 50%

0.59

0.71

Top 25% Top 10%

Marbling Score (MARB) - predicts differences for carcass marbling score as expressed in marbling score units. Higher marbling scores are positively correlated with higher carcass quality grades. Yield Grade (YG) - predicts differences in USDA Yield Grade score and is expressed in USDA Yield Grade units. YG EPD is calculated using the genetic predictions of CW, REA and FAT EPDs. The reliability of Red Angusâ€™ YG EPD is enhanced by using both ultrasound and actual carcass data in the calculation of REA and FAT EPDs. Carcass W eight (CW) - predicts differences in hot carcass weight and is expressed in pounds. Because Red Angusâ€™ CW EPD is a multi-trait model which includes birth, weaning and yearling weight data, the prediction is not subject to culling bias. Thus, it provides a more reliable EPD as compared to only using actual carcass weights. This computation allows for the use of weights taken on ~57,000 animals per year as compared to only ~1,500 animals per year with actual carcass weight observations. Increased Carcass Weight tends to detrimentally affect Yield Grade; the calculation of which also includes Rib Eye Area and Fat Thickness. Rib Eye Area (REA) predicts differences of carcass Rib Eye Area between the 12th and 13th rib. Increased Rib Eye Area has a beneficial effect on Yield Grade which also includes Carcass Weight and Fat Thickness.

YG EPDs

0.02 Top 50%

-0.04 -0.09

Top 25% Top 10%

CW EPDs

21 Top 50%

Top 25% Top 10%

REA EPDs

0.12 Top 50%

0.24

0.35

Top 25% Top 10%

FAT EPDs

12th Rib Fat Thickness (FAT) predicts differences for carcass fat depth over the 12th rib, as expressed in inches. Increases in fat thickness has a detrimental effect on Yield Grade.

EPD percentiles reflect non-parent animals under two years of age

0.00

-0.01 -0.03

Carcass-Trait Concentration Pays Off on Payday by Teres Lambert for American Red Angus Magazine

28 American Red Angus Magazine â– February 2015

Anderson Land & Cattle Co. of

Oberlin, Kan., operates from two key philosophies: “Everything

can always be improved,” and “Stay committed to your

decision but flexible in your Gayle Carlson and her sons, Clay and Jason Carlson

approach.” These two philosophies have served Anderson

Land & Cattle Co. owners, Gayle Carlson and her sons Clay and Jason Anderson, well. The

three-some celebrate their

accomplishments but aren’t resting on their laurels. Andersons A.I. the entire cowherd using some of the best proven genetics in the breed to increase the carcass quality of their calves.

Red Angus was introduced into the family farm’s equation in 1998 when the boys were young and Gayle decided to discontinue the purebred Simmental business after the untimely death of her husband and the boys’ father, Dennis Anderson. “After Dennis’ death, I knew I didn’t have the time to handle all of the marketing required to be a successful seedstock producer,” Gayle stated. “I knew the value of taking weights and keeping records so that part of the program didn’t change. And I wanted the challenge of producing high-quality animals.” She continued, “Commercial crossbreds seemed like the ticket. I liked the Simmental herd we had and thought adding Red Angus to the program would help lower birth weights and add feed efficiency and carcass quality.”

American Red Angus Magazine ■ February 2015 29

Carcass-Trait Concentration Pays Off on Payday

Breeding Superior Cows Today Andersons have 350 to 400 mother cows. While there’s still a handful of purebred Simmentals, the herd is now comprised of about 50 purebred Red Angus and 300plus Red Angus-Simmental crossbreds. A majority of the crossbred females are three-quarter Red Angus and onequarter Simmental, and these Red Angus-Simmental-cross females are meeting the family’s requirements for maternal performance and feedlot quality. Following the philosophy, “Everything can always be improved,” Andersons implement an intense A.I. program so they can take advantage of superior genetics. They synchronize the heifers and breed one round A.I. the end of April to proven calving-ease sires. This year, they A.I.ed 60 heifers. The A.I. sire line-up included five different bulls, with Jason determining each mating. They then turned out a calving-ease herd sire with the heifers for 45 days. “While we all pitch in with the various jobs around the farm, Jason is the guy who studies sires and oversees the matings,” Gayle said. She added that she and Clay are the A.I. arms. “We try to use some proven sires as well as some younger bulls,” Jason said. “While we get a majority of our semen from A.I. companies, we’ve been known to contact a producer and purchase semen private treaty. “With A.I., we access some of the best proven genetics available, using a $40,000 or $50,000 sire, at a cost of about $20 per calf. A.I. consistently delivers above-average returns on the cattle we market, and we’re improving our cowherd faster with the A.I.-sired replacement females we keep.” Step up to the automatic waterer that operates with precision and free yourself from the hassles of buckets and tanks. It’s like adding more hours to your day. Whatever your needs are, Ritchie has your solution.

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Superior carcass genetics start with good, maternal cows. 30 American Red Angus Magazine ■ February 2015

Carcass-Trait Concentration Pays Off on Payday

Because they are already a recip herd for a seedstock producer, Andersons selected nine of their best commercial cows to flush and propagate their own best genetics and advance their cowherd.

84S sold to Buffalo Creek Red Angus for $8,100 in 2008. He later sold to Calvo Family Red Angus and Ozark Hills Genetics for $30,000. 84S is one of the most widely used bulls that is not in a major AI company catalog.

A.I. season for the cows commences May 10. The trio has been synchronizing the entire mature cowherd since 2008, and after one round of A.I., cleanup bulls take over. The rule of thumb for cleanup bulls is one bull to one pasture and group of females. This way the Andersons know the sire of every calf born on the farm. While they typically use growthier bulls that excel in carcass traits on the mature cows, they have been known to also use a heifer bull or two on the cows to produce calving-ease progeny. The mother-and-sons team also synchronizes another group of females that serves as recipients for the farmâ€™s ET program.

1W sold to Buffalo Creek Red Angus in our 2010 sale for $6,300. He is currently owned with Buffalo Creek Red Angus and ABS.

â€œWe are a recipient herd for a fellow Kansanâ€™s seedstock operation,â€? Gayle said. â€œThey provide the embryos to be implanted and the veterinarian, and we provide the recipient cows. Itâ€™s a win-win for both of us.â€? Committed to their decision to produce high-quality cattle and wanting to capitalize on their own superior genetics, the trio is expanding their ET program into their commercial herd.

9LVLW 2XU :HEVLWH 6DOH GHWDLOV SLFWXUHV DQG YLGHRV FRPLQJ VRRQ

%DUW 6DUDK -RQHV (615) 666-3098 *RUGRQ -RQHV (270) 991-2663

PDLO#UHGKLOOIDUPV QHW 466 Red Hill Road Lafayette, TN 37083

32 American Red Angus Magazine â– February 2015

They didnâ€™t just select what they thought were their top females. They analyzed the data on every cow and her offspring. They looked at EPDs for maternal traits, growth traits and carcass traits as well as MPPAs and actual weights. They considered teat and udder structure, conformation, mature size, feet and legs. Comparing data, they narrowed their search to what they consider their top eight cows.

We've Got You Covered!

Reputation Red Angus and Hybreds

700 Bulls Sell! Dakota Bull and Female Sale February 23, 2015 Selling 100 Red Angus, Red Hybred and Red Simmental Bulls Glatt Livestock Center • Mandan, North Dakota • 1 PM CST LSF Takeover 9943W The "Only" way to access this great herdsire is through sons selling in these events... No Semen For Sale.

Ozark Bull and Female Sale March 7, 2015

Selling 150 Bulls and 30 Females 18 month old and yearling bulls White’s Livestock Center • Diamond, Missouri • 1 PM CST

Spring Herdbuilder Sale April 11, 2015

LSF Saga 1040Y This exciting sire will once again be highlighted in our sale and many sales around the country this year.

Selling 250 Red Angus and Red Hybred Bulls 50 Private Treaty Bulls also for sale Weschenfelder Development Center • Shepherd, MT • 1PM MST

Fall Herdbuilder Sale November 6, 2015

200 Red Angus and Red Hybred Bulls Sell Weschenfelder Development Center • Shepherd, MT • 1PM MST

We’ve Got You Covered™ Program - Contact us for details Beckton Epic R397K This bull continues to sire some of the most balanced multi-trait cattle in the entire breed

We know it is going to be difficult to get a Red Angus Bull bought this next year with the current demand for Red Angus Genetics - Contact us about making sure your genetic needs are going to be "covered." If you need one bull or one truckload we have the supply to meet your needs.

Ryan Ludvigson Billings, Montana (406)534-4263 office • (515)450-3124 mobile rl_ludvigson@hotmail.com

Park Ludvigson Cushing, Iowa (712)384-2200 office • (712)229-3431 mobile parkludvigson@hotmail.com

Plateau Red Angus 15th Annual Production Sale “Tomorrow’s Genetics Today”

Tuesday, March 17, 2015 • 1:00 pm MDT Ogallala Livestock Auction Market Ogallala, NE

50 18-Month-Old Bulls 10 2-Year-Old Bulls 18-Month-Old Heifers

Above & Beyonds • Capstones • Cheyennes King Robs • Lancers • Nebulas Flat Irons • Cherokees • Epics • Conquests Conquerors • Jack Hammers Please email or call for a catalog and plan on attending our 2015 sale.

Our goal is and has been to have a lasting relationship with our buyers as a result of their success using our genetics.

Sample Buyer Satisfaction

Years Buying 5 10 10 10 3 2 10 4 5

Plateau Bulls Purchased 10 7 15 26 9 5 20 14 32

Plateau Red Angus 20201 CR 76 #100, Peetz, CO 80747

Carcass-Trait Concentration Pays Off on Payday “While we were after just eight cows, we ended up with nine cows we thought were the best of all categories,” Jason said. They flushed these top females who produced close to 80 embryos. Forty of the embryos were implanted this spring and the rest were frozen. “If we weren’t already involved in an ET program and had the embryologist coming out to the farm, this might not make financial sense,” Gayle said. “But since he’s already here, we decided to capitalize on the genetics of these top females. If the mating results in a female that goes into the herd and weans a heavier calf – one that gives us another 10 to 20 pounds – that hangs a high-quality carcass, the program has merit.” The top 30 percent of all heifers return to the herd as replacements, and Andersons agree that in a couple of years, a high percentage of their replacement heifers will most likely be daughters of these top nine females. Management Flexibility There’s no typical summer in western Kansas. Summers tend to be either very dry or very wet, so Andersons have a flexible weaning program. During the non-drought years, calves are weaned around 205 days of age. When rain is scarce, as it was in the summer of 2014, calves are weaned from their dams at 90 to 100 days of age. “Weather forces us to think outside the box,” Clay said. “But you always have to remember that it’s easier to feed calves than both cows and calves later in the year. A week after we weaned it rained and we wouldn’t have had to wean early. But that’s the way it goes. We don’t look back. We just keep moving forward.”

Lee & Janice Walz, (970) 334-2200 Email: walzredangus@peetzplace.com

34 American Red Angus Magazine ■ February 2015

In years of drought, Andersons wean their calves at three months of age and start them on feed in the feedlot.

Orion Beef Group

Dakota Bull and Female Sale February 23, 2015 Selling 100 Red Angus, Red Hybred and Red Simmental Bulls

Reputation Red Angus and Hybreds

Glatt Livestock Center • Mandan, North Dakota • 1 PM CST A Sample of the Superior Outcross Bulls Selling in this Power Packed Event “CALVING EASE” BULLS THAT WILL LET YOU SLEEP ALL NIGHT LONG REG #

HERD

1688024

4297B

101

GRID CED

MILK ME

HPG

-1.1 61 102

29 -5

CEM STAY

0.77 0.08

0.27 0.02

0.26 0.01

IRON ORE X LANCER L-297 X ROMEO • THE DAM REPORTS A 113 MPPA AND COMES FROM THE HISTORIC PINETA COW FAMILY

1688035

4399B

165

-1.5 62 103

8 15 0.50 0.03

EXT 7455 X B571 X BANDO 155 • A REAL OUTCROSS PEDIGREE THAT COMBINES SOME OF THE MOST MATERNAL SIRES IN THE ANGUS BREED

1688037

4398B

134

-4.8 62

21 -5

3 11 0.28 0.04

0.32 0.03

9 12 0.62 0.15

0.13 0.04

0.36 0.03

MOONSHINE X LANCER L-297 X ROMEO • THIS SUPER CALVING EASE BULL POSTED OVER A 750 LB AWW!

1684178

4301B

144

-5.3 63

28 11

EXT 216 X GRAND OSCAR X FUTURE DIRECTION • INTERESTING OUTCROSS PEDIGREE AND A 119 WEANING RATIO TO BOOT!

Red Crowfoot Moonshine 8081U The bulls are sired by many outcross bulls including Red Crowfoot Moonshine 8081U, Basin EXT 7455, Paringa Iron Ore P27, SRR EXT 216 and Bieber Hughes W109.

1684172

4330B

114

-1.5 63

23 -1

0.55 0.06

SPITN IMAGE X CHALLANGER X FUTURE DIRECTION • FROM THE FAMED FLO MARIE COW FAMILY AND GREAT INDIVIDUAL TO HOLD UP THE LINE

“GROWTH” LEADERS THAT WILL SIRE THE MOST PAYWEIGHT! REG #

HERD

1684156

4314B

136

GRID CED

MILK ME

HPG

0.1 81 121

16 -2

CEM STAY

6 11 0.52 0.14

0.36 0.04

0.17 0.02

MOONSHINE X FUTURE DIRECTION X EXT 7455 • LITERALLY OFF THE CHARTS FOR GROWTH WITH AN 82 LB WWEPD!

1684241

4327B

126

-0.5 75 118

24 13

7 11 0.37 0.16

EXT 216 X FUTURE DIRECTION X WIDE SPREAD • COMBINE A 719 LB AWW, A 111 WEANING RATIO AND A DAM'S MPPA OF 104 INTO A VERY SMART PACKAGE

1684163

4348B

153

-2.1 72

15 -6

8 12 0.62 0.08

0.01 0.00

0.26 0.03

0.02 0.07

MOONSHINE X NO EQUAL X LOGAN 210 • ANOTHER BULL RIGHT AT THE TOP FOR GROWTH WITH AN OLD BUT GREAT PEDIGREE!

1688032

4390B

137

-3.0 73 107

21 -5

4 11 0.33 0.07

MOONSHINE X LANCER L-297 X ROMEO • THE MOONSHINE CATTLE GIVE A GREAT OUTCROSS PEDIGREE AND AWESOME PHENOTYPE

1684175

4332B

142

-1.6 68 108

25 11

6 14 0.48 0.30

EXT 216 X SUPER CONQUEST X CHALLANGER • THE EXT 216 SONS HAVE BEEN JUST PHENOMENAL

“HERDBUILDERS” THAT DO IT ALL RIGHT

Larson Flo-Marie 185 This breed legend has a tremendous influence in this sale and in the "Dakota" nucleus herd. Look for many herd bulls coming from this cow family.

REG #

HERD

1684208

4354B

182

GRID CED

-4.1 72 100

MILK ME

HPG

CEM STAY

7 17 0.74 0.20

0.07 0.05

7 17 0.67 0.00

0.46 0.01

4 15 0.42 0.12

0.08 0.02

HUGHES W109 X GRAND OSCAR X SALUTE • THE MOST BALANCED BULL IN THE ENTIRE OFFERING!

1688022

4394B

185

11 -1.0 65 105

EXT 7455 X B571 X BANDO 155 • GREAT INDEXES WITH OVER A 730 LB AWW AND A 105 MPPA DAM!!

1684189

4331B

144

-0.1 65

HUGHES W109 X ENERGIZER X SENSATIONAL • TOP 10% OF THE BREED FOR HERDBUILDER AND STAYABILITY!

1684220

4356B

156

0.3 64

24 -4

9 14 0.66 0.00

0.27 -0.01

11 18 -0.09 0.16

0.22 0.06

SERGEANT X EXT 7455 X MAKE MIMI • TOP 25% OF THE BREED FOR 7 TRAITS AND INDEXES!

1684168

4318B

196

-4.1 64

HUGHES W109 X GOLD ROBBER X HEAVEN'S SAKE • THE BULL IN THE OFFERING THAT COMBINES MILK, MATERNAL AND STAYBILITY INTO A GREAT PACKAGE

“GRIDMASTERS” THAT WILL PUT YOU IN THE MONEY REG #

HERD

1684165

4347B

178

GRID CED

MILK ME

HPG

0.2 74 101

19 -2

CEM STAY

8 16 0.63 0.15

0.12 0.03

WHEATLAND X MULBERRY X LOGGER • THIS 110 WEANING RATIO BULL IS ONE OF THE HIGHEST GRIDMASTERS IN THE OFFERING

1688033

4391B

137

-3.0 73 107

21 -5

4 11 0.33 0.07

0.26 0.03

0.76 0.19

0.18 0.06

0.84 0.07

0.29 0.02

0.45 0.00

MOONSHINE X LANCER L-297 X ROMEO • GREAT SPREAD BULL DOES A LOT OF THINGS RIGHT

1688023

Red Hybred and Red Simmental Bulls Our Red Hybred and Red Simmental bulls are just outstanding. We will have 30 of these bulls in the offering with numbers and phenomenal phenotype.

4299B

109

-2.3 58

32 -5

1684236

4334B

-0.6 58

25 -2

IRON ORE X TREND X CHAPPARAL • RANKS IN THE TOP 5% FOR MARBLING AND TOP 20% FOR BOTH RIBEYE AND GRIDMASTER

1684192

4335B

129

-0.1 82 119

16 -0

-2 14 0.62 0.02

BREAK THRU X MAKE MIMI X CHEROKEE CANYON • SIRED BY ONE OF THE MOST FEED EFFICIENT SIRES IN THE BREED

We’ve Got You Covered™ Program Contact us for details

IRON ORE X LANCER L-297 X ROMEO • THIS OUTCROSS BULL KNOCKS IT OUT OF THE PARK FOR CARCASS TRAITS!

Ryan Ludvigson Billings, Montana (406)534-4263 office • (515)450-3124 mobile rl_ludvigson@hotmail.com

Park Ludvigson Cushing, Iowa (712)384-2200 office • (712)229-3431 mobile parkludvigson@hotmail.com

www.ludvigsonstockfarms.com

Carcass-Trait Concentration Pays Off on Payday Clay continued, “That said, the grass is in better shape because the calves have been pulled off the cows and the cows require less grass to maintain only themselves.”

Weaned calves go directly into the family’s on-farm feed yard. Anderson vaccinate to keep immunity high and ward off disease, then start the calves on about 8 pounds of feed. Rations are adjusted and increased as the calves age. Andersons have been feeding their calves on the farm for the past 10 years. “We had the feed truck and the capabilities, and we raise our own feed,” said Gayle. “Plus we know the genetics of the calves, so why wouldn’t we feed them?” “From day one, we’ve used a nutritionist. He’s the nutrition expert and adjusts our rations to meet the availability of feedstuffs. The bottom line is he’s a good investment.” Carcass Rewards Andersons feed the calves in their on-farm lot until they’re 13 to 14 months of age, finishing at 1,300 to 1,350 pounds. Because they enroll in Red Angus’ Feeder Calf Certification Program (FCCP) and tag with the yellow, Red Angus tag, Andersons’ calves are eligible for the new Choice+ Grid through Tyson Fresh Meats. The performance-based grid is designed exclusively for FCCP-enrolled cattle, paying premiums for Red Angus-influenced cattle that supply a predictable, quality product that is traceable back to the ranch of origin.

36 American Red Angus Magazine ■ February 2015

Andersons will tag with the yellow FCCP tag before the calves leave their feedlot. The tag will again access to the Red Angus Choice+ Grid available exclusively through Tyson Fresh Meats.

Orion Beef Group

Ozark Bull and Female Sale March 7, 2015

Selling 150 Bulls and 30 Females 18 month old and yearling bulls

Reputation Red Angus and Hybreds

White’s Livestock Center • Diamond, Missouri • 1 PM CST

We’ve Got You Covered™ Program Contact us for details

The Bulls and Females are born, raised and developed in the Midwest A Sample of the Superior Outcross Bulls Selling in this Power Packed Event CALVING EASE PROSPECTS - The Sleep All Night Bulls REG #

HERD

4650B

1689594

177

GRID CED

15 -7.9 60 103

MILK ME

HPG

CEM STAY

2 14 0.73 0.14

0.20 0.05

3 13 0.97 0.07

0.55 0.06

REDEMPTION X ENTERPRISE X BIG SKY • This top calving ease prospect had a 60# BW and over a 700 lb AWW!

4657B

1689588

173

14 -7.2 63 105

REDEMPTION X EXPECTATION X RIBEYE • BIG TIME herd bull prospect from the Crystal cow family with over an 800 lb AWW!

4073B

1682028

127

10 -2.5 75 136

7 10 0.43 0.32

48 -0.06 0.04

REDEMPTION X ENTERPRISE X ENTERPRISE • A maternal brother to Conqueror with an 812 lb AWW and a 114 WR!

4046B

1681963

163

13 -5.6 72 122

6 13 0.71 0.09

0.17 0.00

2 17 0.58 -0.02 28

0.58 0.02

REDEMPTION X BIG SKY X NONE HEAVIER • From the Della cow family and ranks in the top 25% of the breed in 12 traits!

115A

1652559

166

13 -5.0 69 110

CONQUEST X PACKER X ROMEO • Ranks in the top 5% of the breed for CED, BW, STAY and REA!

HXC Conquest 4405P The legend in the making, siring consistent calving ease bulls.

GROWTH PROSPECTS - These are the bulls that will "push" the scales down REG #

HERD

A843

1698649

106

GRID CED

-0.3 70

MILK ME

HPG

CEM STAY

4 11 0.48 0.00

0.18 -0.01 0.21 0.01

TRES TIEMPO X PACKER X GRAND SLAM • Top 1% of the breed for WW and the highest bull in the offering!

B034

1700364

111

-1.7 74 124

7 11 0.46 0.10

3 12 0.49 0.11

36 -0.01 0.00

4 14 0.62 0.28

0 15 0.74 0.11

33 -0.01 -0.01

PACKER X T162 X TOP HAND • A great prospect with a 115 WR and out of a 106 MPPA Dam!

B174

1700315

104

2.0 74 107

STAMPEDE X TRES TIEMPO X FERDINAND • The Stampede sons were highly sought after in last year's sale

164A

1652601

155

0.9 80 133

27 -1

0.02 0.03

EPIC R397 X HOBO X MAJOR • Off the charts WR of 120 and out of a fantastic dam that reports a 111 MPPA!

33B

1671023

162

-3.4 73 115

PARAMOUNT X BIG SKY X MISSION STATEMENT • Well balanced herd bull prospect that ranks in the top 5% for both WW and YW and with a 105 MPPA Dam!

HERDBUILDER PROSPECTS - All around breed specialists that will build great cowherds REG #

HERD

32B

1671022

204

GRID CED

11 -6.1 58

MILK ME

HPG

CEM STAY

7 17 1.03 0.09

0.15 0.02

3 20 0.76 -0.07 24

0.44 -0.01

6 19 0.84 -0.01 24

0.33 0.00

6 16 0.67 0.19

0.20 0.06

3 16 1.00 0.22

0.24 0.06

REDEMPTION X TURBO X COMMITMENT • Check out the Herdbuilder Index on this bull - most likely one of the top bulls to sell all year!

BROWN JYJ REDEMPTION Y1334 This bull is fast becoming a super sire in the breed and we have several sons in the offering.

39B

1671028

204

-3.1 64

PARAMOUNT X MISSION STATEMENT X CELEBRATION • The Highest Stayability bull in the entire offering!

42B

1671031

195

11 -4.1 67 102

TOOL TIME X PACKER X TRENDSETTER • 8 Traits in the top 25% and both indexes in the top 2% of the breed!

4656B

1689586

172

-4.9 60 103

NIGHT CALVER X JEWEL MAKER X HEVN OR BUST • A great balanced bull that hits on all cylinders!

4090B

1682170

188

10 -4.5 75 123

REDEMPTION X PACKER X BIG SKY • The only bull in the offering that ranks in the top 1% of the breed for both Herdbuilder and Gridmaster Indexes!

GRIDMASTER PROSPECTS - "Premium" bulls that will provide the best returns REG #

HERD

4109B

1681810

191

GRID CED

-3.5 66 111

MILK ME

HPG

CEM STAY

0 18 1.13 0.24

0.34 0.09

EPIC R397 X P707 X SHAZZAM • At the top of the charts for Gridmaster and Marbling, definite herd bull prospect!

49B

1685754

119

-3.8 68 104

3 11 0.67 0.31

26 -0.18 0.06

SAMURAI X CONQUEST X GLADIATOR • Ranks in the top 20% of the breed for CED, BW, WW, YW, Milk and Marbling!

410B

1685725

122

-4.5 64

20 11

6 10 0.79 0.17

0.12 0.05

-1 15 0.87 0.05

0.36 0.03

8 15 0.79 -0.01 33

0.62 0.02

SAMURAI X STONEWALL X BUSTER • A very uique pedigree on this exceptional carcass prospect!

45B

Beckton Epic R397K This bull continues to sire some of the most balanced multi-trait cattle in the entire breed

1685729

143

-4.1 61

CONQUEST X MASTERMIND X CHEROKEE • Great combination of Marbling and Ribeye in this superb herd bull prospect!

4089B

1681809

158

-1.4 70 110

BOXED BEEF X B571 X LOGAN • Excellent combination of calving ease, growth, maternal and carcass quality and yield!

Ryan Ludvigson Billings, Montana (406)534-4263 office • (515)450-3124 mobile rl_ludvigson@hotmail.com

Park Ludvigson Cushing, Iowa (712)384-2200 office • (712)229-3431 mobile parkludvigson@hotmail.com

www.ludvigsonstockfarms.com

PRODUCING CATTLE THAT PERFORM for THE CATTLEMAN

Join us at our

2015 RED ANGUS PRODUCTION SALE! MONDAY, MARCH 2, 2015

Mobridge Livestock Market • Mobridge, SD

90 Yearling Bulls 20 Yearling Heifers Including Bulls out of these Sires:

CBR HARMONY 6572-8363 (#1274335) CBR HARMONY 0348-6560 (#1400438) CBR CLARANCE 01-744 (#1400476) CBR TRIPLE DUTY 0566-7542 (#1400186) CFRA T3 CHIEF 0509 (#1076524) SODAK SUMMIT Y329 (#1498096) RED CROWFOOT 9097W (CAN#1504675) RED CROWFOOT 9144W (CAN#1504740) RED CROWFOOT MOONSHINE 2116Z (CAN#1689467) RED XO CROWFOOT SHINE 2435Z (CAN#1689544) LAZYJ SPOTLIGHT 122-2901 (#1429122) WDZ HAMLEY 111 (#1443254)

Contact us for more information today! Robert & Kara Campbell 5096 95th St SW • McIntosh, SD 57641 (701) 422-3721 Email: campbellra@westriv.com www.campbellredangus.com Harold Campbell 5094 95th St SW • McIntosh, SD 57641 (701) 422-3726

Come Ride With Us on March 2nd!

- Breeding Red Angus since 1973 38 American Red Angus Magazine ■ February 2015

Top Genetics and Smart Management Equal Superior Beef The grid allows Andersons to reap the rewards of their concentration on carcass traits, and they are singing the praises of it. The Choice+ Grid paid Andersons a premium for cattle that graded upper two-thirds Choice with additional incentives for load lots of cattle that graded a high percentage Choice and Prime. “We’ve just kept focusing on carcass traits,” Clay said. “With carcass a major focus of our program, selling on the grid is a smart move for us. We sold 168 head of FCCP-tagged steers on the Choice+ Grid and averaged $60.33 per head in premiums.” A comparison of carcass data for 2004 and 2014 shows a big leap in carcass improvement. The percentage of carcasses grading Prime jumped from zero in 2004 to 18 percent in 2014. Choice and above moved from 71 percent in 2002 to 98 percent in 2014. Their outstanding attention to carcass traits has earned Anderson Land & Cattle the prestigious Red Angus GridMaster Award 10 times. The GridMaster program recognizes ranches and feed yards that combine superior Red Angus genetics with precise marketing to meet stringent carcass specifications for quality and yield grade. “Winning the GridMaster Award means a lot to us,” Clay said. Gayle smiled. “We’ve been working at this a long time, and it’s nice to see our cattle actually achieving not only our short-term goals but many of our long-term goals as well. Having our program where it is right now hasn’t happened overnight but it’s been worth the effort,” she said. “That said, we know there’s always room for constant improvement.” ■

Their outstanding attention to carcass traits has earned Anderson Land & Cattle the prestigious Red Angus GridMaster Award 10 times.

Herdbuilder Bull and Female Sale

Orion Beef Group

April 11, 2015 Selling 250 Red Angus and Red Hybred Bulls

Reputation Red Angus and Hybreds

Weschenfelder Development Center • Shepherd, MT • 1PM MST A Sample of the Genetically Superior Bulls Selling in this Showcase Event Calving Ease Prospects - The bulls that will be the next generation of calving ease leaders

REG #

HERD

1681881

4026B

175

GRID CED

18 -7.4 59

MILK ME

HPG

CEM ST

2 14 0.97 -0.01 18

0.50 0.03

NIGHTCALVER X CONQUEROR X JEWELMAKER • Unbelievable calving ease prospect with breed ranks in the top 1% for both CED and BW!

1682043

4006B

204

17 -6.2 62 105

3 19 0.98 0.02

0.40 0.02

0.51 0.06

0.33 0.02

5 17 0.59 -0.01 24

0.51 0.02

REDEMPTION X CONQUEST X SUMMIT • Big time spread and carcass in this calving ease herd bull prospect!

1681826

4029B

206

16 -6.4 61 100

6 18 0.70 0.07

TAKEOVER X CODY X PACKER • The dam was a first calf heifer and "knocked" it out of the park with her first calf!

1682032

4042B

173

16 -7.7 58 103

3 15 0.71 0.03

REDEMPTION X CONQUEST X BIG SKY • Great "stacking" of genetics in this next generation herd bull!

1682183

LSF Takeover 9943W This bull stands alone in the breed as a super sire and this is the largest offering of sons to sell anywhere in the country.

4148B

186

16 -6.8 60 107

19 10

REDEMPTION X PACKER X ENTERPRISE • If you need a calving ease herd bull, this exceptional bull should be high on your list!

1681768

4135B

186

14 -5.1 63 105

6 15 1.05 0.11

0.30 0.04

TAKEOVER X EXPECTATION X CODY • Top 1% breed ranking for Grid Index, CED and Marbling!

Herdbuilder Prospects - The bulls that will build cow herds and profitability REG #

HERD

1681734

4155B

254

GRID CED

MILK ME

HPG

23 -9.8 54

22 -2

CEM ST

9 19 0.95 0.06

0.52 0.08

6 20 0.81 0.16

0.22 0.04

5 20 0.78 0.10

0.12 0.02

8 19 1.16 0.09

0.26 0.03

7 19 0.67 0.16

0.43 0.06

2 20 0.79 0.18

0.42 0.09

TAKEOVER X BRUTE FORCE X PACKER • The #1 Herdbuilder Index Bull in the entire Red Angus Database!

1682142

4103B

219

15 -5.9 68 119

REDEMPTION X PACKER X CHEYENNE • Great index with a dam that reports a 105 MPPA!

1681903

4059B

218

17 -6.6 68 104

TAKEOVER X LT142 X RENEGADE • Top 1% of the breed for Herd, Grid, CED and Stayability!

1682035

4060B

216

-2.6 67

TAKEOVER X HOBO DESIGN X MARIAS • The Takeover sons just do so many things right in so many ways!

1681867

4036B

215

11 -4.8 74 123

SAGA X PACKER X CHEYENNE • This Saga son records a 95BR and a 113WR and his dam has a 105 MPPA!

1681937

4022B

210

-4.3 62

20 -2

EPIC R397 X CONQUEST X PACKER • From the famous herd bull producing "Dina" cow family!

BROWN JYJ REDEMPTION Y1334 This bull is fast becoming a super sire in the breed and we have several sons in the offering.

Gridmaster Prospects - The bulls that will sire the feedyard and harvest floor winners REG #

HERD

1681877

4101B

203

GRID CED

13 -6.4 62

MILK ME

HPG

CEM ST

7 16 1.24 0.18

0.05 0.05

0.12 0.04

3 14 1.11 0.25

0.20 0.10

6 17 1.21 0.10

0.42 0.05

0.26 0.05

0.28 0.12

0.32 0.09

TAKEOVER X EXPECTATION X SUMMIT • The highest Grid bull and one of the highest marbling bulls in the entire offering!

1681831

4038B

208

14 -7.8 48

21 -2

6 16 1.20 0.08

TAKEOVER X EPIC R397 X EXPECTATION • Top 1% Grid index and out of the very productive Della cow family!

1681930

4024B

176

12 -6.8 59

PROSPECT X CONQUEROR X BIG SKY • Ranks in the top 1% of the breed for birthweight and stayability!

1681943

4043B

188

10 -3.6 67 106

TAKEOVER X EXT 5233 X PACKER • Across the board consistency with incredible marbling and ribeye numbers!

1681940

4002B

178

20 -7.8 62 115

5 15 0.90 0.16

REDEMPTION X CONQUEROR X PACKER • Where can you find a bull that is 20 CED and in the top 1% of the breed for Grid Index?

1681874

4012B

144

11 -7.5 52

3 12 0.84 0.25

PROSPECT X CONQUEST X TANK • The Prospect sire group is just fantastic with several high carcass calving ease sons selling!

1681980

4150B

140

-4.2 66 108

8 10 1.06 0.24

TAKEOVER X ENTERPRISE X COMBINATION • This herd bull prospect comes from the Evergreen cow family that has "Angus" roots and an outcross pedigree!

Growth and Power Prospects - These are the bulls that will sire the calves that push the scales down REG #

HERD

Beckton Epic R397K

1681920

4106B

164

This bull continues to sire some of the most balanced multi-trait cattle in the entire breed

1682162

We’ve Got You Covered™ Program - Contact us for details

GRID CED

MILK ME

-2.3 84 146

HPG

CEM ST

3 16 0.90 0.08

0.28 -0.02

REDEMPTION X CYCLONE X PACKER • Growth and power bull that ranks at the top of the breed for WW, YW, MB and RE!

4116B

180

-1.3 86 143

4 18 0.71 0.12

0.32 0.00

5 15 0.97 0.14

0.32 0.02

2 14 0.90 0.12

0.77 0.07

REDEMPTION X PACKER X MARIO • This stout herd bull posts over a 700 lb AWW!

1681814

4010B

163

-1.7 80 135

REDEMPTION X EXPECTATION X PACKER • 104 MPPA Dam from the great Evergreen cow family!

1681872

4031B

158

-0.6 77 129

23 -2

EPIC R397 X ENVY X JEWELMAKER • The Epic's are so solid and this bull competes with a 107 AWR and a dam with a 104 MPPA!

1682009

4164B

197

-0.3 78 125

14 -2

6 18 0.43 0.16

0.37 0.04

2 15 0.72 0.10

0.51 0.04

EPIC R397 X PACKER X LOGAN • This bull ranks at the top of the breed growth and fertility traits!

1682029

4053B

164

-1.6 76 122

SAGA X PACKER X CHEROKEE CANYON • The Saga's are some of the best bulls in the entire breed!

Go to www.ludvigsonstockfarms.com for updates. Ryan Ludvigson Billings, Montana (406)534-4263 office • (515)450-3124 mobile rl_ludvigson@hotmail.com

Park Ludvigson Cushing, Iowa (712)384-2200 office • (712)229-3431 mobile parkludvigson@hotmail.com

Performance Tested Red Angus Genetics

2 Auctions # 2 Locations

Saturday, February 28, 2015 â€“ Bryan, TX at the Brazos County Exposition Complex

Saturday, March 14, 2015 â€“ Shawnee, OK at the Heart of Oklahoma Expo Center Yearling, 18 month & 2 year old bulls Registered and Commercial Red Angus Females Sale management by:

Call today to get on our catalog mailing list! Live online at:

www.redalliance.biz or www.redcows.net John Macek: 903/348-2138 | Brian Whisnand: 214/762-8541 | Kyle Gilchrist: 641/919/1077

Genetics, Management and Environment Contribute to Bull Fertility by Sheyna Strommen for American Red Angus Magazine

44 American Red Angus Magazine â– February 2015

Sometime in the next month or two, college students across the country will gear up for their midterm exams. Some of them will ‘pull-an-all-nighter’ as they pour over the assigned literature, then wake up late the next morning only to stumble around campus in an anxiety-riddled, yet sleep-deprived stupor. Although a few eek by, “cramming” for a test is rarely a good use of time. Students who prepare methodically, over a longer period of time are likely the ones who will ‘make the grade.’ The same theory applies to breeding soundness exams. “There is nothing that a producer can do at the last minute to help a bull pass a breeding soundness exam. Young bulls must be prepared carefully, from pre-weaning to yearling. Older bulls also need some prep time and should be on a positive plane of nutrition before turn-out,” explained Dr. Kyle Caires, assistant professor and animal scientist at Berry College in Georgia.

Caires has studied the reproductive physiology of livestock for more than a decade and has a particular interest in the function of the male reproductive system. He and his team have pioneered a method to preserve stem cells from a donor bull and place them inside a recipient, with the recipient eventually producing semen that is bio-identical to the donor’s. A more detailed explanation appeared in the January ARA Magazine.

American Red Angus Magazine ■ February 2015 45

Genetics, Management and Environment Contribute to Bull Fertility Preparing for the Mid-Term Exams As in college coursework, where smaller tests are given to indicate readiness for the final exam, ranchers have a few “mid-term” exams at their disposal prior to turn-out – the “final exam.”

One of those tests is scrotal circumference. It has been one of the accepted indicators of puberty for decades and is highly heritable. Conventional wisdom tells us that the bigger the factory (scrotal circumference), the more sperm, semen, can be produced. Across all breeds, young bulls that attain a 28cm scrotum are generally considered pubescent, but that can be misleading, as scrotal size alone does not guarantee fertility. In yearling Red Angus bulls, the average scrotal circumference is 33 to 35 centimeters. Some bulls that measure with a smaller scrotal circumference may actually have longer testicles and more functional testis tissue, so the overall volume of the testicles should be considered. The consistency of the testicles is another important test as an indicator of breeding soundness. Testicles should be symmetrical in terms of shape, mostly firm, with a little give upon palpation. “Stick your arm out straight, then bring

your fist back to about a 45 degree angle and flex your bicep. Now, use your other hand to squeeze that bicep. This is what a healthy testicle should feel like,” Caires demonstrated. Soft, mushy testicles are associated with high rates of abnormal sperm, testicular degeneration or problems with development. Hard testicles are indicative of pathological conditions, like physical trauma or venereal diseases. Caires says feeding a moderate rate of gain is one of the best ways to prepare bulls for a breeding soundness exam and the ultimate test – pasture-breeding cows. High-energy rations that promote production of subcutaneous fat may artificially increase testis size, and ultimately damage the factory, according to Caires. This is a problem because extra fat in the scrotum produces heat that destroys the proteins necessary for semen production. “Although their testicle size may be adequate, we know that cattle fed an 80 percent grain ration from 8.5 to 15 months have lower sperm outputs and higher incidents of sperm

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The National Program for Genetic Improvement of Feed Efficiency in Beef Cattle is funded by the USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture. This is a multi-institutional, multi-year project designed to identify genetic markers associated with feed intake across multiple breeds. The University of Illinois is collaborating with Andras Stock Farm to evaluate feed intake and feed efficiency in their 2014 spring-born bulls. We are collecting individual feed intake over a 70 day test period and will be able to calculate feed conversion ratios as well as residual feed intake and residual gain for each bull. The data generated from this test will help the grant and the Red Angus association in the development of genomic enhanced EPDs for feed intake and feed efficiency. - Dr. Dan Shike - Assistant Professor in Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois

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46 American Red Angus Magazine ■ February 2015

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Genetics, Management and Environment Contribute to Bull Fertility defects than bulls on medium-energy diets,” he said. “This is a critical period for the establishment of spermatogenesis and during this time frame, bulls are just as susceptible to nutritional stress like under feeding.” And the damage can be long-term. Bulls on high-energy diets actually have lower epididymis sperm storage capacity, a lower percentage of progressively motile sperm, as well as a higher percentage of abnormal sperm and these issues can persist throughout adult life. The epididymis is not only the main storage site for sperm, it is where they mature into active swimmers. “When sperm leave the testis, they have no motility,” explained Caires. “As sperm travel through the epididymis, they mature, become motile and acquire fertilization capacity.” The process takes about a week. Another downside to a high energy rations is the potential for testicular degeneration (where one side of the testicle shrinks). This could begin as early as 18 months of age in overfed bulls. “Many of these undesirable traits are heritable, and overfeeding exacerbates their occurrence of these conditions.” Excessive feeding may also result in laminitis

48 American Red Angus Magazine ■ February 2015

and abnormal foot growth, and diminish the ability for a bull to cover ground and settle cows. “Physiological stresses – like those produced from excess feed or disease – can really do a number on functional fertility like we discussed or indirectly through other means (liver abscesses),” he said.

Genetics, Management and Environment Contribute to Bull Fertility “Producers really need to find the middle-ground – help bulls attain an increasing plane of nutrition going into breeding season, without negatively impacting sperm production and quality.”

enough high-quality sperm are present in the ejaculate to successfully achieve pregnancies in a reasonable number of cows,” Caires explained, “and these estimates can be appraised through breeding soundness exams.”

Endocrinology is the hormones and the glands that produce them in the body. Organs communicate with each other through the production of hormones, and effective communication between the brain (hypothalamus), pituitary and testis is necessary to attain puberty, establish sperm production and maintain fertility throughout life. “Maturation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-testis axis is of pivotal importance and a coordinated balance of hormone production between these organs is needed to establish and maintain sperm production throughout their lives,” he said. Prior to puberty, it is wonky; all organs need to be on the same page.

Internally, a bull’s glands are still developing until he is 2.5 to 3 years old depending on his breed. The prostate and vesicular glands (seminal vesicles) produce hormones, proteins, minerals, vitamins and a variety of nutrients important for sperm viability, especially important once they enter the female’s tract. Sperm motility and morphology evaluations are the basis of scoring semen quality.

Environmental factors – heat or cold stress, feed or disease – can disrupt the communication. “Acquisition of sexual behavior, age of first ejaculation, and the age at which sperm are present in an ejaculation are indicators of puberty, but the best definition is the age at which

Caires said an often-overlooked structure in bulls is the ampullae, because these glands are difficult to palpate and problems with this accessory sex gland are rarely reported. Caires has observed an increased incidence of bulls with immature ampullae in recent years and these animals typically have a higher incidence of certain sperm defects, like decapitated sperm, and are usually affected by progressive testicular degeneration between 14 and 18 months of age. It appears there may be a genetic component to this defect but the mechanism is poorly understood.

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50 American Red Angus Magazine ■ February 2015

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Genetics, Management and Environment Contribute to Bull Fertility The breeding soundness exam is also a good time to evaluate bulls for foot size, shape, angle, quality and motion, as well as ocular health. Exams should be done 30 to 60 days before the breeding season, or if fertility problems are a concern. The Final Exam – Breeding Cattle Once a bull passes the breeding soundness exams by meeting requirements for structural correctness, scrotal circumference, sperm motility and sperm morphology, it’s time for him to perform the final test: Does he have the sex-drive to breed cows in the pasture with success? “When you first turn your bulls out, be sure to observe them to make sure they have adequate libido and are working,” Caires recommended. “And be sure to re-evaluate throughout the breeding cycle. A breeding soundness exam is a limited guarantee. It tells us that a bull is sound on that day and should be sound for another two to three weeks. It takes 60 to 62 days for a spermatogonia to undergo all of the changes needed before spermatozoa are produced. Any impingement – heat stress or disease – could damage this sensitive process and put a bull out of pocket for several months.” ■

52 American Red Angus Magazine ■ February 2015

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