Simmental Country Summer 2015

Su mme r 2015 Q u e e n s o f t h e Pas t u r e Simm ental Countr y

Summer 2015

In This Issue:

Photo Contest From the Director’s Chair Women in Simmental Country

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Bruce Holmquist General Manager Cell: 403-988-8676 bholmquist@simmental.com

Barb Judd Office Manager Phone: 403-250-7979 bjudd@simmental.com

Meghan Black Industry & Member Services Representative Cell: 506-324-4825 mblack@simmental.com

Jane Crawford Eastern Sales Consultant Phone: 519-287-5286 Cell: 519-317-5263 jane.cattle@gmail.com

VOLUME 36, NUMBER 3

#13, 4101 19th St. N.E. Calgary, Alberta T2E 7C4 Phone: 403-250-5255 Fax: 403-250-5121 Website: www.simmentalcountry.com Canadian Simmental Country Deadlines October 2015 Issue November/December Winter 2015 Issue February 2016 “Herd Sire” Issue March/April/May “Spring 2016” Issue “Queens of the Pasture” 2016 Issue

Material Deadline: September 1, 2015 Material Deadline: October 1, 2015 Material Deadline: January 1, 2016 Material Deadline: April 1, 2016 Material Deadline: July 1, 2016

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Subscription Rates Canada $40 + applicable taxes per year $75 + applicable taxes for two years (GST included) Published for: Canadian Simmental Association #13 , 4101 - 19th Street N.E. Calgary, Alberta T2E 7C4 Phone: 403-250-7979 Fax: 403-250-5121 Published by:

Cover Courtesy of Photo Contest Winner Jill Harvie from Harvie Ranching

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The official publication of the Canadian Simmental Association

AB, SK, MB, QC add 5 per cent to all fees for GST BC add 12 per cent to all fees for HST ON, NB, NFLD add 13 per cent to all fees for HST NS add 15 per cent to all fees for HST 4-3342 Millar Avenue Saskatoon, Saskatchewan S7K 7G9 Office: 306-934-9696 Fax: 306-934-0744 www.todayspublishing.com Editor: Bryan Kostiuk Marketing: Chris Poley, Ted Serhienko & Shane Michelson Accounting: Treena Ballantyne, Carla Hamm & Mina Serhienko Production: Tiffany Peters, Debbie Thiessen, Jared Hosh, Reilly Ambler & Samantha Rimke

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Please Return Undeliverable Copies To: Canadian Simmental Association #13 , 4101 - 19th Street N.E. Calgary, Alberta T2E 7C4 Phone: 403-250-7979 Fax: 403-250-5121 Publication Mail Agreement #40012794 © 2015 Simmental Country (1997) Ltd. All rights reserved. The contents of this publication may not be reproduced by any means, in whole or in part, without the prior written consent of the Canadian Simmental Association.

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From the Gate Post

By Bruce Holmquist General Manager, Canadian Simmental Association

Simmental Production around the World

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he Simmental breed is the most populous Bos Taurus breed in the world because of its ability to be used in varying climatic and environmental conditions. This adaptability was on display at two events in the spring of 2015 that Canadian Simmental attended.

“Back to the Roots” was the theme of the 31st European Simmental-Fleckvieh Congress and World Simmental Fleckvieh Federation (WSFF) meetings that were held in Thun, Switzerland April 16th -19th. Thun is located in the native region of Simmental cattle which is evidenced by the dominance of the breed in that area as well as the signage and the naming of the streets. While the traditional purpose of using Simmental mainly for dairy production is still most prominent, there appears to be a growing trend towards a beef production focus by some producers. As European agricultural subsidies are being reduced and changing from commodity focused to an acreage based model, milk production is becoming the secondary choice for some of the new generation of Swiss farmers because of its much more labor and capital intensive requirements.

The technical meetings were very well attended and on behalf of the Canadian Simmental Association (CSA) an update on the current status of Simmental in Canada as well as reporting on the North American Simmental genetic evaluation was provided. Fred Schuetze who is the delegate on behalf of the American 6

Simmental Association (ASA) to the WSFF and 2nd Vice President was unable to attend, however provided material that I presented on the Fertility project being led by Dr. Jerry Taylor at the University of Missouri that the WSFF is also supporting. The CSA and ASA are seen as leaders in our approach to beef production and genetic improvement and because of this there were numerous questions answered following the presentation. It was also interesting to hear reports on the extensive amount of genotyping and research on a variety of traits that is being done on dual-purpose Simmental/Fleckvieh cattle in Europe.

Several farm visits were enjoyed by the group and it was very fascinating to see the differences in production methods as well as operations that are shifting their focus to beef production.

The average cowherd size of 15-30 head on 30 hectares and the return received from the marketplace for milk and beef is supplemented by approximately an additional CDN $3000 per hectare from government support annually.

The events concluded with two exhibitions, one dairy focused show at Thun, and the “Swiss Open” which was a separate beef cattle show at Brunegg featuring the mainstream Swiss beef breeds that included Canadian genetics.

Although there wasn’t a large presence of direct descendants of Canadian Simmental genetics in the Simmental show, there was a PHS Worldwide calf exhibited and there were many animals that carried a Canadian influence further back in their pedigrees. Cross-breeding

is not widely used in the Swiss beef herds at this time, however Simmental genetics including; should that happen we will see an increased interest in Canadian • Dulverton Angus and Currawee Composites genetics to use on some of the non-Simmental commercial herds. • Wombramurra stud • Booragul Angus The second event that • Hicks Beef CSA recently attended • Brewer Simmentals was Beef Australia • Peringa Livestock in Rockhampton , • Webb Simmentals Australia. This trade • Coolana stud mission consisted of • Lancaster Simmentals representatives from Simmental, Angus, A name recognizable to many Canadian Simmental breeders; Hereford, Speckle Park, Tom and Liz Baker’s Woonallee stud at Millicent, South Australia and Gelbvieh and was was another seed-stock operation of impact that we visited. Tom financially supported Baker is a former Australian Simmental Association Chairman by the Saskatchewan and he and his family have contributed much to the growth of the Ministry of Agriculture, Simmental breed in Australia. Woonallee is one of Australia’s and organized by Canadian Western Agribition. Beef Australia longest operating stud herds that has been successfully breeding is held every three years and is a combination tradeshow, Simmental cattle for many years, and has been using Canadian livestock exposition and educational symposium held in the bulls to enhance their program. relatively small northeastern city of Rockhampton, Queensland.

As one of the largest beef industry events in the country and Throughout the many stops made with its location in Queensland it is an area that is close to many in Australia, it became clear that Brahman influenced operations; this year there were 32 different the use of Simmental genetics breeds of cattle exhibited. is poised to grow and that many operations can use Canadian Over 80,000 visitors were reported to have attended Beef genetics to complement their Australia with approximately 1300 international guests of which existing seed-stock programs; over 300 were Chinese. The Simmental show featured a cross adding performance in a section of traditional as well as red and black cattle. A highlight balanced package with calving was the Grand Champion Simmental bull, Meldon Park Hugo, ease combined with carcass and being selected as the “runner-up” in the overall supreme show. maternal traits.

Another highlight was the Genomix sale with the high selling Simmental lot being a flush from the Woonallee herd of Tom and Canadian Simmental genetics Liz Baker, selling for AUS $13,500. Through this event and the play a prominent role in beef following 2 weeks I traveled with Dr. Wade Shafer, CEO of the cattle production in Canada, American Simmental Association (ASA). Dr. Shafer and ASA and there is also the potential staff have established a network of contacts in Australia several to expand the influence of of whom are clients of the ASA and are contributing data to our those superior genetics in other joint genetic evaluation through International Genetic Solutions countries. Canadian Simmental truly is world-renowned and (IGS). does have genetics that are highly sought after around the world, however we do need to spread that message.

As is the case in Canada, the Simmental breed in Australia has evolved in several directions with a mix of traditional as well as red and black being available to commercial beef producers, while SimmAngus is growing and is providing another option for Simmental genetics. Dick Whale of Independent Breeding and Marketing Services was the organizer of the stops we made during our travels south from Rockhampton, and is a highly respected beef cattle consultant with a large number of connections throughout the Australian beef industry. Through his contacts we also met directors of Meat and Livestock Australia which provided a broader based understanding of the beef industry in Australia as well as its challenges and opportunities.

To complement the many breeders we met at Beef Australia we visited several operations that have used North American 7

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Rainalta Simmentals & Charolais

Bill Swenson 403.362.0854

SALE RESULTS: 28 Rainalta Simmentals Averaged $6,035.00 10 Rainalta Charolais Averaged $5,960.00 14 Saddleridge Charolais Averaged $4,753.00 52 Lots Grossed $294,100.00 and Averaged $5,655.00

Watch for our consignments at: Checkers Simmental Sale Ponoka, AB - December 19, 2015

Mark Your Calendars: 22nd Rainalta Simmental & Charolais Bull Sale February 23, 2016 9

Livestock Markets Association of Canada Auctioneer Championship 2015

The LMAC’s 36th annual convention in Winnipeg was a huge success. Over 150 market operators, auctioneers and order buyers attended the event. The Ontario contingent had the best showing ever taking home most of the hardware.

Congratulations to Calvin Kuepher from Waterloo, ON who sells for the Ontario Livestock Exchange was the winner of the Grand Champion Auctioneer’s Buckle. Kevin McArter who sells at Brussels Livestock was Reserve Champion. Meghan Black representing the Canadian Simmental Association presented Ryan Hurlburt from Yorkton, SK with the third place buckle. Fourth place went to Ab Carroll from Omemee, ON and fifth was awarded to Tyler Slawinski from the Gladstone Auction Market in Manitoba. 30 auctioneers from across Canada took part in the competition at Winnipeg Livestock Sales.

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Larry Witzel from the Ontario Livestock Exchange was inducted into the LMAC Hall of Fame for his outstanding work on behalf of LMAC and the Kevin McArter, Calvin Kuepher & marketing industry.

Ab Carroll The LMAC thanks the Canadian Simmental Association for their continued support of their Annual Convention and Auctioneer’s Competition.

Ryan Hurlburt

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Breeding for a Better Cow Herd

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John Crowley 1,2 & Natalie May 2 1 Canadian Beef Breeds Council 2 Livestock Gentec, University of Alberta

hile a lot of focus is placed on selection for terminal traits, more often than not, in an analysis of a beef production system, maternal traits will outrank terminal traits in relative economic importance. There is a long list of traits that affect whether or not a cow has a long productive lifespan. When selecting replacement heifers, we hope to choose the ones that will stay in the herd for a long time, remaining sound and healthy, and weaning a high quality calf every year. However, without the proper tools for some of these important traits, it’s hard to predict how a heifer will turn out.

There’s a large capital investment in heifer development from birth until they wean their first calf, and it’s important that they continue to be productive for a number of years.1 Heifers need to grow adequately in order to reach puberty early (as female puberty is dependent on body size and condition), while having sufficient frame size by the time they calve to minimize the risk of problems during calving.1,2 Heifers who have cycled twice before the breeding season begins have a 15% higher chance of becoming pregnant than those bred on their pubertal estrus (the first standing heat with ovulation).2 When using EPDs to select your best maternal bull i.e. a bull that will have female progeny suited to becoming replacements, maternal traits such as calving ease (CE), maternal calving ease (MCE), yearling weight (YWT) and milk (MLK) should be prioritized.

While some will argue that birthweight (BW) should be on that list; if you focus on better CE and MCE, as well as push YWT, then BWT will become less important. Other traits on which EPDs could be delivered and added to the suite of maternal traits are age at first calving (AFC), mortality (% dead at birth; MORT), calving interval (CIV), survivability (SURV) and cull cow carcass weight (CCWT).

While these EPDs can help identify replacements that are most likely to be successful females, there are other factors to consider for predicting stayability in the herd such as,

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the functionality of the animal. A female could have the best genetic merit in the world but if her frame, feet and legs, udder and teats are not optimal, then lasting in the herd may become a problem. Animals need to be properly scored to take advantage of selection and culling on such traits. Presently, EPDs for such functional traits are absent in the majority of cases and culling based on live scores is best practice. Long term soundness and health are affected by many factors. Structural problems in the limbs or hoof can decrease the chances of a cow remaining sound in the long term. Susceptibility to common diseases can also result in unplanned culling if lameness, mastitis, or other health issues cannot be resolved. There is some very interesting work done in the dairy industry, measuring sires for high immune response (HIR). The high immune response test developed by the University of Guelph predicts which animals will have lower incidences of disease overall as they have a better primary immune response when challenged by a disease. This trait is also more heritable (0.25 or 25% of this trait is controlled by genetics) than resistance to individual diseases, making it a more useful selection tool.4 Cattle that fall in the HIR category have lower disease occurrence and severity as well as better vaccine response and higher colostrum quality.

Temperament is another trait that has been difficult to select on to-date. While it is easy to identify and cull animals that fall in the extreme for aggression or flightiness, it would be preferable to implement long term selection against these behaviors through breeding. Selecting cattle that are easy to handle can also improve growth, feed efficiency and meat quality.5 Maternal aggression is another thing entirely as some protectiveness is useful in extensive situations, and where predators are a concern. Differences between breeds should also be mentioned but is challenging as there is a lot of subjective information available, however when animals of different breeds are raised in the same environment and have the same exposure to humans, differences in their temperament can be seen.5 The heritability of these

behavior traits is moderate and DNA markers have been found that are related to temperament. Some of these markers are located close to the gene for the brain’s dopamine receptor, which could be a start in identifying the genes causing differences in cow temperament.5 As has been seen in dairy and now becoming common place in beef, the use of DNA markers through genomic selection can have an influence on the accuracy of selection.

By being able to select animals at a younger age with the same accuracy as if they were older and with progeny of their own, rate of genetic gain is increased considerably.

Using genomics in females is sometimes a debated issue when doing the economics of the situation; assumptions made lead to large variations in recommendations. Briefly, to have a genomic EPD (GE-EPD) on a young female calf would be like her having 5-15 of her own progeny (depending on the trait). This, as you can imagine, reduces the generation interval significantly. However, the flip side is that a cow will never have as many progeny as a highly used bull and so won’t pass on the same amount genes (unless flushed). Maternal traits take years to collect and are sparse per animal. For beef, Van Eenennaam and Drake (2012) concluded that until the price of genotyping is ~$15 (to the producer), genotyping for potential replacements is not worth it. However, with the significant decline in the cost of genotyping and utilizing imputation, this cost may not be too far away (if not already here through subsidized genotyping).

select the right cows for their herd. Improvements in traits such as disease resistance, soundness, and temperament can also be useful to maintaining high standards for animal welfare and operation profitability through selecting animals that have the right traits to stay in the herd for a long time.

1. Engelken, T. J. 2008. Developing replacement beef heifers. Theriogenology. 70: 569-572.

2. Atkins, J. A., K. G. Pohler, M. F. Smith. 2013. Physiology and Endocrinology of Puberty in Heifers. Vet Clin Food Anim. 29: 479-492.

3. Ritchie, H. D. and Hawkins, D.R. Selecting Replacement Heifers. Beef Cattle Handbook – BCH-1100. Iowa Beef Center.

4. Thompson-Crispi, K., and B. Mallard. We can now find the best immune systems. Hoard’s Dairymen.

Reproduction E-Sources.

5. Haskell, M. J., G. Simm, S. P. Turner. 2014. Genetic selection for temperament traits in dairy and beef cattle.

Frontiers in Genetics. 5: 368.

6. Van Eenennaam, A. L. and D. J. Drake. 2012. Anim.

Prod. Science. 52:185-196

Each farm’s ideal cow herd may look different, but as understanding of complicated traits that affect cow longevity improves, we will be better able to help producers

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From the Field

Meghan Black CSA Industry & Member Service Representative

From the Field

here has time gone? It feels like my first four all. CSA has received ALMA support in the past and Canadian months with the Canadian Simmental Association Hereford and Canadian Angus are now conducting research has flown by and I’ve thoroughly enjoyed every that is being supported by ALMA along with many others. minute of it! The travel, the networking both After the number of conferences taken in over the last with industry leaders and Simmental breeders, learning month, it was refreshing to be a part of the Alberta Simmental and being more involved within the beef industry as Association’s Field Day and AGM. New and familiar faces our Associations representative has been a whirlwind! and great cattle for viewing at each stop made for a fantastic

Within the spring issue of Simmental Country I took my day – despite the heavy rainfall that we desperately needed!

“From the Field” piece to introduce myself, talk about my roots June wrapped up in Saskatchewan for the Western Beef and growing up on the east coast of Canada, my involvement Development Center for their Field Day in Lanigan, followed in the beef industry and how they’ve led me to where I am now by the T Bar C Invitational Golf Tournament as part of the in my life. Now, I want to touch base on what I’ve been doing CSA team of Rick McIntyre, Doug Warrener (New Holland with the CSA since joining this team in March. After the bull Agriculture), Bruce Holmquist and myself. I assure you all, sale run this spring, and being completely blown away by the despite it being the second golf tournament I participated in quality of cattle on offer, high prices and demand of Simmental within a week, my golf game did not improve what so ever! It and Simmental influence cattle; I had the opportunity to better was great to see so many involved in the agriculture and beef familiarize myself with CSA staff, programs and projects. industry come together and support our Junior programs! The At the end of May, I was off to Winnipeg to take in the 36th 8th T Bar C Invitational Golf Tournament raised over $52,000 Annual Livestock Markets Association’s Convention held this year which will go back and benefit 8 Junior National in conjunction with the Canadian Livestock Auctioneer breed Associations, representing nearly 2,000 members!

Competition. 30 “fast talkers” from across Canada competed The beginning of July has been certainly eventful with the in this event where they were judged on their clarity and Calgary Stampede and Summer Synergy; events that are looked voice control, their chant, professionalism, confidence, forward to all year long! This year Bruce and I represented the calmness and mannerisms as well as their enthusiasm and CSA by helping at the Canadian Beef Breeds booth as part of general impression. The Canadian Simmental Association the Cattle Trail with other representatives of each of the breeds; (CSA) this year sponsored the third place buckle which was talking to consumers, international guests and answering awarded to Ryan Hurlburt of Yorkton, SK. Congratulations questions about Canadian beef and the industry we’re proud to to all those that not only competed in this event, but also be a part of! The end of the week I took in Summer Synergy those who helped organize and sponsored this convention! where youth from across Canada put their skills to the test in

The second week of June CSA staff joined representatives competing for scholarships. What talent we have in the youth from other Canadian Beef Breed Associations and traveled south of the beef industry! The week ended on a high note with the to Biloxi, Mississippi for the Beef Improvement Federation’s Synergy Supreme Champions being declared at Stampede. It was Annual Convention. The agenda for this week was packed a Simmental sweep with Dakota Townsend winning Supreme with great speakers and technical breakout sessions. While Champion Purebred Female and Cole McMahon being awarded at this event Dr. John Crowley, CSA General Manager Bruce Supreme Champion Commercial Female. Congratulations!

Holmquist and I also took part in the International Genetic As the end of the month slowly creeps up on us I’m excited Solutions meeting. After a week away, taking in BIF and the and looking forward to being a part of the CSA Convention and Mississippi heat, called for a day of golf at the first Canadian YCSA National Classic in Lindsay, Ontario and to network Cattlemen’s Foundation Golf Classic. At this event Industry and with breeders and YCSA members from across Canada.

Canadian Beef Breed representatives gathered for the launch of this new foundation. The following day we attended Future Fare Until next time!

– Setting Ourselves Apart, an annual conference put on by Alberta Livestock and Meat Agency (ALMA) noting the resourceful Meghan Black individuals and leading-edge initiatives that are enhancing CSA Industry & Member Service Representative the Alberta meat and livestock industry for the benefit of us

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Women in Simmental Country

BEEF BUSINESS IS A REAL “family

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DOREEN STEEVES and MARLENE GAUNCE

hen Doreen Steeves and her daughter Marlene Gaunce talk about their lives as farm women raising families, looking after livestock and managing off-farm careers, you can tell which tree the apple came from. Both are hard working women that are passionate about the livestock industry, committed to family values, thriving on a busy day knowing everything needed will get done, and realizing if you love what you do and add a bit of fun to the project, it may not be work at all.

Doreen and her husband Joseph Steeves, who have been married 59 years, raised their four children on the farm they still operate near the village of Stoney Creek, New Brunswick, just south of Moncton.

Marlene, who is one of four Steeves children, began her own farming career after marrying husband Peter Gaunce. They began keeping cattle and raising their family of five boys together, about an hour north of the Steeves’ home place near the community of New Scotland.

Focusing on the production of purebred Simmental cattle, they are among the Canadian average of smaller beef operations. As a result, both couples have maintained off-farm careers as they developed their farms as they raised their families. Everyone was actively involved in 4-H, and they attended beef shows primarily in the Atlantic Canada Region. It was a real juggling act at times to make everything work, but both women say it was, and is the best life in which to raise a family.

Born and raised on a mixed farm in the local area, Doreen is a graduate of one of the now long-disappeared, one-room school houses; she later went on to marry husband Joe, and they started raising a few cattle — mostly Shorthorns. Joe worked for 18

affair”

many years before retiring as a federal meat inspector with Agriculture Canada and Doreen worked at Eatons in nearby Moncton. “I believe it was in about 1978 that this new beef breed to Canada caught Joe’s eye,” says Doreen. “We had a few Shorthorn but he liked the looks of these Simmental cattle as they had a larger frame and he figured they would be easier to finish.”

They started with a couple females and later a couple bulls, “we just kept slowly building the herd,” says Doreen. Today their long-operating Joe-Dreen Farms Ltd. is running about 80 head of purebred Simmental cattle, including approximately 33 cows and heifers as well as their calves. While Doreen at 77, and Joe at 80 are semi-retired, their son-in-law Don Pauley and grandson Trevor have taken on more of the day-to-day work in running the farm.

The Steeves continued with their off-farm careers and building their Simmental herd. While this was all happening, they were also raising a family of four children; Marlene as well as daughters Marcie and Heather, and a son Billy. Unfortunately Bill passed away from cancer at age 40. All children were raised around and active in the beef business and were also involved with 4-H beef programs and attended events and shows. “It was a great family experience,” says Doreen.

“We were all involved in 4-H projects with the children, when Joe and I would show cattle at various shows and exhibitions we’d usually take all four children with us.”

Doreen says along with the cattle they liked the people associated with the beef industry. “Whether it was 4-H events or Simmental shows we always met some great people.” “Having that personal contact with other people in the beef industry was such a bonus.

We met great people along the way who became good friends.”

The Steeves suffered a major setback in their lives with a devastating barn fire in December 2002 that destroyed their beef herd. “We woke up in the night and saw the flames in the barn, there was no chance of saving anything,” says Doreen. They lost around 30 cows that were due to calve, as well as the barn. “It was a hard time and we really had to think about whether we wanted to start again. The community was amazing; they held a fundraiser to help us rebuild the barn, and one man stepped forward and supplied logs for the lumber. Joe wasn’t sure what he wanted to do, then someone gave us a Simmental heifer and we just decided to pick up the pieces and start again.”

Doreen worked along side Joe in all aspects of the farm. She looked after the books and was involved in the registration paper work. Most of their bulls have been sold as yearlings with a few two-year-olds, directly off the farm through local advertising.

With Joe involved in the Maritime Simmental Association over the years, Doreen has also been involved in clerking at various sales.

“The breed has changed quite a bit to meet the needs of the commercial producers,” says Doreen. “They used to be a very tall and lanky cattle and now they are much thicker. The breed has developed so there are very few calving problems, and rather than the traditional tan and white cattle we are now seeing more interest in red cattle with white faces. Among our customers I would say the biggest demand is for the black Simmentals. “

“Dad gave us a Shorthorn heifer calf in about 1986, which really got us thinking about the beef business,” says Marlene. “About that time he was getting involved with the Simmental breed, and we liked the looks of them too so we sold the Holsteins, bought a couple Simmental and just kept going.” Over the years the purebred Simmental herd has steadily grown. This year their operation, Hidden Hollow Farms, calved out around 50 head of Simmental cows.

For Marlene, the family farm has been just that, a real family affair. As she and Peter were involved in raising cattle, their five sons; Andrew, Barrett, Ryan, Devan and Scott, were also quite involved while they were still living at home. “They were always involved in 4-H where the motto is ‘learn to do by doing’,” says Marlene. “There are lessons that the boys learned through those years that continue to serve them well in life. Growing up the boys were always helping out around the farm so it was a real family effort as we all worked together.” Devan and Scott now own a dairy farm at Scoudouc, NB and Andrew works for them, while son Barrett a chartered accountant, has also recently bought a dairy farm.

With Peter involved with shift work at his off-farm job, Marlene often looks after the day to day chores of the Simmental herd which includes a few of the traditional Simmental cattle, but now is mostly red cattle with a few blacks. “With Peter’s work schedule a lot of the time I am here by myself, so it is nice to have cattle that are easy to work with,” says Marlene. “The Simmental breed has made some good changes over the years. The breed is a now a bit smaller and thicker and easier to finish. Cows have good mothering ability and produce lots of milk and are also quiet to work with.”

Doreen and Joe have shown cattle at a number of shows through the years. This included many local fairs and shows, as well as the Fredericton Exhibition, the exhibition in Truro, Nova Scotia, the Maritime Fall Fair in Halifax and the Royal Winter Fair in Toronto. “There are a lot of outstanding events from over the years, but probably going to the Royal Winter Fair in Toronto was one of the real highlights,” she says.

Doreen says raising a family, looking after the farm, working an off-farm job, being involved with the Women’s Institute as well as church activities often meant for some very busy times, but it has also been very rewarding. “It has been a real good life to be able to do something that I really enjoyed,” she says. “Joe and I have worked side by side all these years and it has just been great.”

The herd starts calving in January and with the farm located in a high snowfall area, the cattle are provided with plenty of shelter for the winter. Cows calve inside a calving barn, where they are held for 24 to 48 hours before being turned out in the yard where shelter is available.

It has been a busy life as well over at the Gaunce farm at New Scotland. Marlene and Peter started out with a small mixed farming operation with a few dairy cows, some beef cows and a few pigs. Marlene works part time as a maternity ward nurse at local hospitals “delivering lots of babies” and Peter works offfarm at a local potash mine.

Most of the bull calves are sent to the Maritime Bull Testing Society station at Nappan, Nova Scotia where they are raised, put on test, and then marketed as yearlings through an annual bull sale in April. “We were pleased to see of seven bulls we had on test at the Maritime Bull Testing Station this year, ours were the highest gaining and high selling,” says Marlene. They sell

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some bulls through private treaty off the farm as well. Along with raising heifer calves for replacements they also sell a few to other producers looking for good quality females, including some that sold last year to purebred operators, Gagnon Farms, in Quebec.

Hidden Hollow Farm finishes cattle for direct sale of sides and quarters of beef to customers as well.

The Gaunce family was involved in 4-H shows and sales while the boys were growing up however Marlene and Peter don’t show that much although they been involved with events at Truro, Nova Scotia and Victoriaville, Quebec. “Whether it is through 4-H or at other beef shows, one of the really great things about this industry is the camaraderie and the nice people you meet,” says Marlene. “It is just a great industry.”

One of the highlights or “special animals” encountered over the years was a 4-H heifer named Edith, Marlene’s son Scott raised. “Scott showed her at the Royal Winter Fair and she was just a great cow and really became the matriarch of the herd,” says Marlene. “She was a blonde Simmental and was always so quiet. For 12 or 13 years she raised some really nice heifers and it was determined that Edith was going to stay with us as long as she could. I didn’t want to see her getting on a truck. In some respects she wasn’t an outstanding cow, but she did very well and had a nice personality.”

Marlene says she learned lots from her mother about how to view the business of farming. “My mom is a really hard worker and she just likes to be busy,” she says. “She always said people can work hard, but if they are doing what they love, it isn’t really work. We always try to keep that spirit on our farm as well.” “No matter what we were doing, we always tried to make it fun and have a few laughs, and when the boys are here we are always joking around and having a good time.” She also recalls hiring a 10-year-old boy who wanted a new bike and she offered him a job cleaning the chicken coop. He took the job, but at first wasn’t impressed with the work so Marlene suggested he approach the job by having a race with the wheelbarrow. “Sometimes you have a job you really don’t love, but then you make the best of it.”

With the boys off working on their own careers and as she jokingly refers to the “free labor” that is gone, Marlene says she and Peter are keeping the herd at the present size for the time being. “The boys played a major role in helping us build the farm to where it is today, and they still do help out at different times as needed,” she says. “We have a good size herd for the two of us to handle right now, so we aren’t looking to make major changes.”

Marlene states “I am very passionate about the beef industry so I take every opportunity I can to tell people what the agriculture industry is all about. Growing up on the farm you learn how to work and you learn to have fun. I can’t think of a better way or place to raise a family.”

Saskatchewan Simmental 4-H Member “Pay’s it Forward”

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he Junior Ag Regional 4-H show in Saskatoon was the scene and culmination of a long campaign by YCSA member Wyatt Millar to support the Saskatoon Cancer Centre by raising money and growing his hair for cancer patients. The show is always held the first weekend of July and this year it occurred July 3 – 6. As part of this show, 4-H members are involved in judging , oral reasons, a heifer and steer show, winding up with the steer sale Monday night. Friday night was 4-H at the races and that’s where Wyatt’s 9” long hair was cut in front of thousands of cheering spectators at Marquis Downs thoroughbred racetrack. His hair had been grown since Sept. 2013 and ended up going to Pantene Beautiful Length’s wig program for cancer.

Wyatt had a great day Monday with his Simmental steer “Paying it Forward” winning the 4-H medium weight division. That night at the steer sale Wyatt’s steer was the last to sell. His goal was to raise $10,000 for greatly needed equipment at the Cancer centre. When the bidding was done and the gavel fell $30,700 was raised by a consortium of 37 ag businesses and dairy farmers in the local Saskatoon area. This group put together by Bryce Fisher in turn donated the steer back to be resold.

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The second time around “Paying it Forward” raised over $7,000 and was bought by Nienhaus Contracting, Cervus Equipment, Saskview Farms and B&N Metal. They in turn donated the steer to the Saskatoon Food Bank. In total with online donations included, over $40,000 was raised for cancer. If you still want to be part of this campaign, you can go online to donate at http://donate.saskcancer.ca.

When asked if Wyatt had any last words to say as this project comes to an end. He said he would like to thank Cadence Haaland of the Hanley 4-H club for being a great inspiration to him last year in donating his steer to the Saskatoon Children’s Hospital.

Also this would not be possible without the support from Bryce Fisher & Raquel Dyck of R & F Livestock and all the local farmers and friends that contributed money for this worthy cause.

There are too many names to include in this story but your support is extremely appreciated.

THANK YOU for helping me “Pay it Forward” for cancer!

Title Sponsors: New Holland Canadian Simmental Association Ontario Simmental Association Simmental Country Young Canadian Simmental Association

Gold Sponsors: Anchor D Ranch Simmentals Beef Farmers of Ontario Black River Simmentals Ferme Gagnon Inc Genex Kawartha Lakes Agri- Services Diamond Sponsor: M & J Farms Maxwell Land & Livestock Nolara Farms Ontario Simm-Bells Platinum Sponsors: Ottawa Valley Seed Growers DLMS Ottawa Valley Young Canadian Simmental East Central Ontario Simmental Association Peterborough County Cattlemen’s Association Ontario Young Canadian Simmental Association River Point Cattle Company RK Animal Supplies Sully’s Farm TD Canada Trust V5 Simmentals

Thursday, July 30, 2015 YCSA Move In/Registration Friday July 31, 2015 7:30 am - Registration 8:00 am - YCSA AGM 10:00 am - Quizzes 11:00 am -Print Marketing

12:00 pm - Lunch 1:00 pm - Fitting Demo 2:00 pm - Team Fitting 4:00 pm - Judging 5:00 pm - Supper 7:30 pm - Evening Entertainment (James Barker Band)

Silver Sponsors: Barlee Simmentals Carew’s Simmentals Carl & Laurie Wright Cedar Creek Simmentals Destiny Simmentals Donovandale Farms Dr. Everett & Marylon Hall Dr. Victoria Crane & Mike Thomas Elm Tree Farms Farm Credit Canada Farmstead Gallery Foley Simmentals Fullblood Simmental Fleckvieh Federation Hi-Tech Farms Indian River Cattle Company Kenpal Farm Products Inc. Kingfield Farms Maple Key Farm Mar Mac Farms Marywood Breeders Group McCormack Family Ranch

Saturday August 1, 2015 9:00 am - Showmanship 12:00 pm - Lunch 1:00 pm - CSA AGM 5:00 pm - CSA Banquet 7:30 pm - Friends of the Canadian Simmental Foundation Auction

Canadian Simmental Association #13, 4101 - 19th Street N.E. Calgary, AB T2E 7C4 P: (403) 250-7979 Fax: (403) 250-5121 www.simmental.com

McIntosh Ranch Navan Fair Ontario Simmental Bells Robson Acres Spruce Grove Cattle Company Starfra Feeds & Shur Gain Triple Rose Simmentals Victoria Cattlemen’s Association Western Producer Whitewater Livestock Wild Oak Farms Xcel Livestock Bronze Sponsors: Anne & Harold Cheslock Gravandale Simmentals New Life Mills Norwood Family Farm O’Brien Farms Rick-Sha Farms Sullivan Simmentals Tom Henderson Custom Meat Cutting

Sunday, August 2, 2015 10:00 am - Confirmation Show 12:00 pm - Lunch 1:00 pm - YCSA Awards **SUBJECT TO CHANGE**

Carla Schmitt, YCSA Coordinator - (306) 221-7950 Sophie Wotten, YCSA President - (705) 464-1713 21

YCSA News

Carla Schmitt YCSA Coordinator

Young Canadian Simmental Association Report

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or those of you whom I haven’t met yet through my time with the Canadian Simmental Association, my name is Carla Schmitt and I hold the position of YCSA and Programs Coordinator for the CSA. I reside north of Saskatoon, SK and come from an agriculture background where I am actively involved in my family’s farm in northeast Saskatchewan. I was heavily involved in the 4-H program through my years as a member and am currently a leader. I am a recent graduate of the Cattlemen’s Young Leaders program, and I am on the Board of Directors for Canadian Western Agribition.

Since being hired in October, I have been working with the YCSA membership, specifically the National Junior Board. In 2014 the YCSA had a Program Review conducted, and some of the recommendations that came forward suggested that we: change the age limit to match other Junior Breed Organizations, update governing documents, restructure the Adult Advisor group, to hire a YCSA Coordinator, improve communication structure, remove the Director Liaison position, and appoint a YCSA member to attend CSA board meetings. It is certainly a busy and evolving time for the YCSA program with this recent Program Review and then working on some of the recommendations within it.

At the October board meetings the CSA developed a CSA-YCSA Review Sub-committee, chaired by CSA Director Blair McRae. The committee which includes the National YCSA President, YCSA Coordinator, Friends of Canadian Simmental Foundation President, CSA President, and an additional CSA director will review their progress at the fall CSA board meetings.

This committee has been a great asset to the program and has replaced the Director Liaison position that was active previous to this. Further to the recommendations, the committee has gone through and evaluated each of these items. √ At this time the Age limit will remain at 25 years old. √ A YCSA Policies and Procedures document has been drafted bringing together the previous governing documents and updating as needed.

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√ Included description of responsibilities for Adult Advisors within the Policies & Procedures document. √ The CSA hired a full time YCSA Coordinator in October 2014. √ A communication and governance model was developed and approved which outlines the flow of communication and governance within the YCSA program. Communication continues to improve with a fulltime coordinator. √ The National YCSA President has attended CSA Board meetings and will continue to do so.

It is evident that some progress has been made thanks to the dedication and hard work of many involved in this program. It has been a pleasure working with the YCSA membership and the National Junior Board. The enthusiasm of young people in this industry is something we can all speak highly of!

The big YCSA event of the year is taking place in Lindsay, Ontario in conjunction with the CSA Convention July 30-August 2nd. The agenda is jammed packed and YCSA members have lots to look forward to during this week. As CSA Programs Coordinator I am working to assist the Ontario Simmental Association in the planning of the Convention, and based on the schedule planned out, we will have some exciting and busy days in Lindsay! I look forward to meeting more of the CSA and YCSA membership and working for you during this prestigious event.

Directly after the Convention, I will be traveling with YCSA members, Sara Van Sickle of Alberta, and Wyatt Millar of Saskatchewan, to Bozeman, Montana to the AJSA Summit Leadership Conference. Sara and Wyatt were awarded the trip last year at the National Classic, and the schedule for the event in Bozeman is looking to be a good one.

The YCSA program has a long standing history as a prominent youth beef breed association in Canada and the work that is being done will continue to move the YCSA program forward and gain momentum. I look forward to being involved with this!

From the Director’s Chair

“Pretty Good Shape” Lee McMillen - Canadian Simmental Director

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retty good shape”- I think this quote could simply sum up the cattle industry, the Simmental breed and our Association. The Canadian beef industry has seen record setting prices in all classes and weight ranges of cattle this past year. There seems to be no end in sight as North American cattle numbers are still low, and demand for high quality Canadian beef is increasing. In the grand scheme of things, the only hiccup we’re seeing currently seems to be the dry conditions in many areas of western Canada – here’s hoping for some moisture this summer and fall. As far as our Association goes from the perspective of my first year as a CSA Director, I would say things are very positive. Financially, the CSA is in a solid position, In terms of staff and office personnel, we may be the envy of all breed associations with a blend of top notch people with years of experience combined with fresh, young, enthusiastic staff that are committed to strengthening and promoting the Simmental breed. The Directors around the board table are a group of outstanding members from coast to coast that have dedicated their time for the betterment of the breed.

Last but certainly not least, the Simmental breed in general. We are very fortunate to have a tremendous group of people raising Simmental seedstock. Hats off to Simmental breeders, top stockman, progressive, hard working and forward thinkers that have produced a breed of

cattle that have breeders from other Associations looking over the fence, and most importantly a type of beast that is perfectly suited to work for commercial cattlemen. No other breed can offer what Simmental can. Red, black or fullblood, horned or polled, calving ease, performance and unmatched maternal quality. It is by no accident that the Simmental bull sales have been the talk of the town each spring, but rather it is due to the commitment from our breeders to produce this highly sought after product and from our Association to provide the tools and data to back it all up.

It is a great time to be in the cattle industry. Simmental breeders can be very proud of the product we offer to our commercial customers. Your Association has worked hard to provide registry and a wealth of tools to breeders, and commercial cattlemen alike that they may use in any way they desire including performance data, EPD profiles, genomics and DNA evaluations.

All in all as a cattleman, Simmental breeder and a CSA director, I think it would be fair to say if you wear any one of those hats you would agree, we’re in pretty good shape.

Have a great summer and we’ll see you down the Simmental trail this fall!

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Congratulations to...

Highway 21 Feeders, Miller Family on receiving the 2015 Commerical Breeder Award.

Thank you to all that attended, sponsored and hosted the ASA AGM and Field Day! The ASA would like to welcome new board members Dakota Townsend & Byron Johnson.

Returning to the board are Kyle Lewis (President), Jordan Deeg (Vice President), Duncan Pearson, Rebecca Beechnoir, Wade Hannah, Drad Dundas & Stacey Romanyk.

Thank you to Chuck and Lorraine Groeneveld for their hard work and dedication!

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President Everett Olson Box 1939 Minnedosa, MB R0J 1E0 Phone: 204-826-2643 Email: everettolson@mymts.net 1st Vice President Rick Dequier Box 1673, Carman, MB R0G 0J0 Phone: 204-771-0280 Email: rdequier@westmansteel.ca 2nd Vice President Andrea Bertholet Box 55, Car twright, MB R0K 0L0 Phone: 204-483-0319 Email: adber tholet@hotmail.com Secretary/Treasurer Donalee Jones Box 142, Car twright, MB R0K 0L0 Phone/fax: 204-529-2444 Email: donalee@midcan.com MSA Directors Everett More Box 1754, Virden, MB R0M 2C0 Phone: 204-748-1225 Email: vahequine@yahoo.com

Mark Your Calendars...

MANITOBA AG EX.

October 29-31, 2015 in Brandon, MB Watch for more details on show schedules at... www.manitobaagex.com

Greg Woychyshyn Box 2035 Minnedosa, MB R0J 1E0 Phone: 204-865-2475 Email: crestviewcattleco@hotmail.com Tracey Wilcox Box 351, Treherne, MB R0G 2V0 Phone: 204-723-2386 Email: pwilcox@mymts.net Trevor Peters Box 385, River s, MB R0K 1X0 Phone: 204-328-7458 Email: trevor.peter s@canadamalting.com Gordon Delichte Box 26, St. Alphonse, MB R0K 1Z0 Phone: 204-836-2116 Email: g.delichte@gmail.com Tom Marchant Box 263, Arden, MB R0J 0B0 Phone: 204-841-2046 Email: tristarcattleco@gmail.com CSA Director Blair McRae RR1 Box 57 Brandon, MB R7A 5Y1 Phone: 204-728-3058 Email: marmac@inetlink.ca YCSA President Kolton McIntosh Box 84 Ericksdale, MB R0C 0W0 Phone: 204-280-0359 auction_mcintosh@hotmail.ca Pembina Triangle Rep Eric Theroux Box 215, Notre Dame De Lourdes, MB R0G 1M0 Phone: 204-526-7360 Email: eric.theroux@cpsagu.ca Keystone Association Rep Jennilee Bernier RR #2, Minnedosa, MB R0J 1E0 204-763-4580

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MANITOBA SIMMENTAL SUMMER SHOW RESULTS Killarney Fair - June 28, 2015

Champion Heifer Calf: Rainbow River Ranch, Minnedosa Reserve Heifer Calf: Silver Lake Farms, Cartwright Champion Yearling Heifer: Rainbow River Ranch, Minnedosa Reserve Yearling Heifer: Maple Lake Stock Farms, Hartney Champion 2yr Old Female: Rainbow River Ranch, Minnedosa Reserve 2yr Old Female: Twin Oak Livestock, Treherne Champion Mature Female: Twin Meadow Livestock, Treherne Champion Bull Calf: Wilcox Simmentals, Treherne Reserve Bull Calf: Twin Meadow Livestock, Treherne Champion Yearling Bull: Olmstead Cattle Co, Carberry Reserve Yearling Bull: Twin Oak Livestock, Treherne Grand Champion Female: Rainbow River Ranch, Minnedosa Reserve Grand Champion Female: Rainbow River Ranch, Minnedosa Grand Champion Bull: Olmstead Cattle Co, Carberry Reserve Grand Champion Bull: Twin Oak Livestock, Treherne

Breeders Herd: Rainbow River Ranch, Minnedosa Get of Sire: Twin Meadow Livestock, Treherne

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The Maritime YCSA would like to personally thank each and every one of their 2014 sponsors. Without your continued support to our program, it would not be one of the leading youth shows in the Maritimes.

Thank you again!

Maritime YCSA Classic

Maritime Association Contacts: President: Donald Godfrey, 48 Hyde Point Rd, Meadow Bank, PE. (902)-566-3613 Vice-President: James MacKenzie, NS. Secretary: Jennie Mutch, NS. Treasurer: Bill McLeod, NB. Directors: Richard Armstrong, NS; Trevor Pauley, NB; Geraline VanAgten, NB; Wade Loane, PE; Jennie Mutch, PE; Ralph Taylor.

Maritime YCS President: Heather Creamer CSA Director: Lacey Fisher

YCSA 2015 show will be held in Windsor, NS. September 25-27 Contact: Heather Creamer (902) 694-4308

When: October 24, 2015 Where: Maritime Beef Test Station, Nappan, NS. If you would like to consign, please contact us at: (902) 388-1613

Annual Salt Water Classic Sale

The Maritime Simmental Association & The Maritime YCSA

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here are many difficult decisions to be made when changing the brand or manufacturer of a vaccine line.

Hopefully this article will clarify how to go about the decision and avoid any gaps or overlaps that could develop if the right combinations are not chosen. The real comparisons can be made when you know what specific diseases you need to vaccinate for in your herd, whether you use a modified live, killed or combined program and how efficacious (effective) you think your program was originally. This will help you and your herd veterinarian determine where to come in with different products. This is all assuming the previous vaccines were purchased, stored, handled administered properly and timely in the past to all necessary cattle in your herd.

If you do purchase your vaccination supplies from your herd health veterinarian and they are changing lines it could be for several reasons, only one of which might be the efficacy of the product. Other reasons are availability, cost, dosage formulation, number of doses per bottle and even service provided by the pharmaceutical company. I have known clinics changing trade names simply based on route of administration. If two vaccines are equal and one is approved to give subcutaneously that may be a more desirable route and supports “Beef Quality Assurance�.

Sometimes newer products may have a broader range of bacteria or viruses it protects against making them more desirable and vaccines that provide greater protection in fewer shots may be more desirable as well. More shots simply mean more labor and stress (another needle poke) on the calves. The intranasal route eliminates the needle but may have a shorter duration. These are all decisions you and your veterinarian need to make.

Knowing which vaccines do what requires essentially reading the fine print and you will find most pharmaceutical companies have pretty good spread sheets indicating which vaccines protect against which diseases. We must pay close attention as vaccines can be very close in protection yet one organisms protection may be missing. This is where it best to consult with your veterinarian in case there are any differences in coverage.

Once one has determined that all the diseases are the same then there is the question of whether you can carry on boosting the same way you have in the past. Just because you have changed vaccines does not necessarily mean you need to start a vaccine program all over again. In fact the opposite is the case. Vaccines in general stimulate the body to produce antibodies or protection

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against that specific disease. If you then come in with a different vaccine as long as immunity is there and the diseases are the same in the new vaccine it should booster the previous vaccine response.

This is much the same principal as if a natural say viral infection came through it would essentially stimulate the immune system the same way.

You need to follow label directions and if the previous vaccination program has worked well and you trust the protection it is giving then boostering with a comparable product should work fine. My only caution is if killed vaccines were previously given that boostering was done at the recommended label and then modified live vaccines or different killed products can be followed up with. My personal preference is using modified live vaccines for the longer duration of immunity but some vaccines such as the footrot vaccine only come as a killed product.

Starting over anew may be recommended in several instances such as the acquisition of new stock with a sketchy vaccination history or if a year has been missed meaning now it is two years between vaccinations. If potentially vaccinations were missed such as escaping from the chute, dosage was not calculated or automatic syringes were not working properly: all these and other reasons I have missed may be justification to starting the vaccination program all over again. If an additional organism (virus or bacteria) has been added into the program it is highly likely it will need to be boostered the first time.

The bottom-line is if you are changing vaccines and your previous one gave protection and all the antigens (organisms) are the same you should be protected with using the new vaccine.

If new protection has been added it may need to be boostered but these are all good questions to pose to your veterinarian so gaps are not created in the new vaccination program. As we all know vaccination is commonplace and it is far better to prevent disease than treat it. It also allows more savings in cost of using antimicrobials as well as sparing usage does not allow antimicrobial resistance to built up as quickly. All good reasons to work with your veterinarian yearly on the most updated , least stressful most comprehensive and efficacious vaccination program necessary for your particular farm and management style. Pharmaceutical companies will continue to improve vaccines making them more efficacious, broad spectrum and less reactive coupled with in some cases easier means of administration. The future looks promising to use vaccination to improve the health of our cattle herds and reduce antimicrobial usage.

We are pleased to announce that the eighth annual T Bar Invitational golf tournament was again, an overwhelming success, raising close to $50,000.00 for youth in the beef industry.

Eight national junior breed associations, representing nearly 2,000 members, will reap rewards because of the generosity of sponsors. In addition, a portion of the proceeds will be donated to Canadian Western Agribition, Manitoba Youth Beef Roundup, Summer Synergy, Stockade Roundup and the Young Ranchman’s All Breeds Livestock Show which all host junior interbreed events.

A successful social featuring a wine and spirit tasting sponsored

by Alta Genetics was held on the night of June 23rd at the office of T Bar C Cattle Saskatoon, Saskatchewan. The next morning, golfers were treated to a presentation by Brad Wildeman President of Pound-Maker Investments Ltd. while at breakfast, hosted by the Dakota Dunes Casino.

Shortly after, golfers of all ages and skill levels took to the course for golf, friendship and good cheer. The evening finished with an awards banquet and presentation of the T Bar Invitational champions trophy.

“We are extremely happy with this year’s event. With the help of our generous sponsors, we have raised over $350,000.00, which has provided opportunities to a great number of youth” said Bryan Kostiuk, co-chairman of the tournament. “The tournament encompasses people from all segments of the industry as well as those who supported a great cause.”

Plans for the ninth annual T Bar Invitational are already under way. Watch for updates at www.tbarinvitational.com for further information on this year’s sponsors and more information on next year’s event.

Special thank you to the Canadian Simmental Association, Saskatchewan Simmental Association, McIntosh Livestock, Erixon Simmentals, Sunny Valley Simmentals , Kuntz Simmental Farm and Peters Simmentals for their continued support.

Hope to see you next year at the Ninth Annual T Bar Invitational Golf Tournament. visit...

www.TBARINVITATIONAL.com for more information 33

Appuye sur le poteau de cloture

Par Bruce Holmquist Directeur général - Association Simmental du Canada

L’élevage Simmental dans le Monde

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Missouri. Nos deux organisations, soit l’ASC et l’ASA, sont perçues en tant que leaders dans le domaine de la production bovine et de l’amélioration génétique. En conséquence, j’ai dû répondre à plusieurs questions suite à cette présentation. Il fut également très intéressant d’écouter les divers rapports concernant un nombre considérable de projets de recherche et de travaux d’analyse génotypique présentement Le 31e Congrès européen de la race Simmental/ en cours chez les bovins à double fins du type Fleckvieh sous le thème “De retour aux sources” Simmental/Fleckvieh. et les rencontres de la Fédération mondiale Simmental/Fleckvieh (FMSF) se sont tenus du 16 Les délégués ont apprécié les nombreuses visites au 19 avril derniers à Thun en Suisse. La vile de de fermes et il fut tout aussi intéressant de Thun est située dans la région d’origine de la race constater les différences importantes au niveau Simmental, ce qui était particulièrement évident des systèmes de production, lesquels se dirigent par la grande présence de bovins Simmental dans clairement vers la production de viande. Le cette région, de même qu’avec l’apparence et les troupeau moyen est constitué d’environ 15 à 30 noms de rue. Bien qu’il soit assez clair que la race vaches et d’une terre de 30 hectares. En plus des est encore employée pour ses bonnes aptitudes revenus provenant de la vente du lait et de la viande, en production laitière, il semble que certains le gouvernement verse une aide additionnelle de producteurs l’utilisent de plus en plus pour ses $ 3000 par hectare. Le programme d’activités qualités de production de viande. Alors qu’on s’est conclu avec la tenue de deux expositions, assiste en Europe à une réduction des subventions soit un concours à Thun orienté vers la production agricoles et que l’agriculture se transforme vers laitière et le second concours “Swiss Open”, une un modèle de production basé sur les surfaces de compétition axée sur la production bouchère terre détenues, la production laitière devient le à Brunegg, avec en compétition des sujets des deuxième choix chez certains jeunes agriculteurs races bovines traditionnelles Suisse, de même Suisse, en raison des exigences plus élevées en que l’influence de certaines lignées Simmental canadiennes. Bien qu’il n’y avait pas un grand capitaux et en main d’ œuvre. nombre de descendants directs issus de lignées Plusieurs participants ont assisté aux rencontres Simmental canadiennes lors du jugement de la techniques et nous avons présenté au nom de race Simmental, on a vu un veau provenant du l’Association Simmental du Canada (ASC) taureau PHS Worldwide, ainsi que d’autres sujets une mise à jour concernant la situation actuelle possédant une génétique d’origine canadienne de la race au pays, de même qu’un compte au sein de leurs ancêtres. La pratique des rendu touchant l’évaluation génétique nord- croisements de races n’est présentement pas une américaine de la race Simmental. Le délégué réalité au sein des troupeaux Suisse. Toutefois, si de l’Association Simmental américaine (ASA) cela venait à changer, nous devrions constater un et second vice-président de la FMSF, M. Fred intérêt accru envers la génétique canadienne qui Schuetze, ne pouvait pas être présent. Celui-ci pourrait être employée dans quelques troupeaux m’ayant fourni le matériel nécessaire, j’ai alors commerciaux. présenté le projet touchant la fertilité, lequel est supporté par la FMSF et est présentement Le forum “Boeuf Australie”tenu à Rockhampton réalisé par le Dr. Jerry Taylor de l’Université du en Australie est le deuxième évènement râce à ses aptitudes d’adaptation sous diverses conditions climatiques et environnementales, la race Simmental est la race du genre Bos Taurus la plus populaire dans le monde. Il a été possible de le constater au printemps 2015 lors de deux évènements où l’Association Simmental du Canada était présente.

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important où l’Association Simmental du Canada était présente. Des représentants des associations Simmental, Angus, Hereford, Speckle Park et Gelbvieh participaient à cette mission commerciale organisée via l’Exposition canadienne Agribition et supportée financièrement par le Ministère de l’agriculture de la Saskatchewan.

L’événement “Boeuf Australie” se tient à tous les trois ans dans la ville relativement petite de Rockhampton, dans le Queensland, dans le nord-est du pays. Il s’agit d’un amalgame de foire commerciale, d’exposition d’animaux et de symposium éducatif. Avec sa localisation dans la région du Queensland (là où on retrouve plusieurs troupeaux employant la race Brahman) et du fait qu’il s’agisse de la plus importante exposition touchant la production bovine, on y retrouvait cette année la présence de bovins de trente-deux races bovines différentes.

Parmi les 80,000 visiteurs présents lors de “Boeuf Australie”, on comptait environ 1300 invités internationaux, notamment une délégation de plus de 300 participants chinois. Des bovins de type plus traditionnel et des sujets rouges ou noirs ont attiré l’attention des spectateurs. Par ailleurs, le taureau Simmental ayant été couronné Grand Champion, soit Meldon Park Hugo, fut également le poursuivant au titre de Champion suprême de cette exposition. La vente Genomix fut aussi un autre fait saillant, avec la vente d’un lot (sur-ovulation) provenant du troupeau Woolanee, propriété de Tom et Liz Baker, lequel s’est vendu à 13 500 $ AUS. Notons que je voyageais pour les deux semaines de visites de fermes et la tenue de cette exposition avec le Dr Wade Shafer, Directeur général de l’ASA. Le Dr. Shafer et son personnel de l’ASA ont bâti un réseau de contacts en Australie. Plusieurs de ceux-là sont aussi des clients de l’ASA et ils soumettent des données qui sont incorporées à notre évaluation génétique conjointe via le groupe International Genetic Solutions (IGS).

Nous avons également visité une ferme bien connue par plusieurs éleveurs Simmental du Canada, soit l’élevage Woolanee, propriété de Tom et Liz Baker, à Millicent, dans le sud de l’Australie. Tom Baker est un ex-Président de l’Association Simmental de l’Australie et, celui-ci et sa famille ont contribué de manière importante à la croissance de la race Simmental en Australie. L’élevage Woonallee constitue l’un des plus vieux troupeaux en opération en Australie. Ils élèvent des bovins Simmental depuis plusieurs années et ils ont employé des taureaux canadiens afin d’améliorer leur programme.

Au cours de nos nombreuses visites de fermes en Australie, on peut affirmer que l’emploi de la génétique de race Simmental est voué à une croissance certaine. De plus, la génétique canadienne peut venir complémenter celle des nombreux élevages de race pure actuels, notamment en offrant une combinaison de qualités liées à la facilité de vêlage, en combinaison avec les caractères maternels et liés à la qualité des carcasses.

La génétique des bovins Simmental du Canada occupe un rôle primordial au sein de l’industrie bovine canadienne. Il existe également un énorme potentiel de croissance afin que notre génétique puisse contribuer à l’amélioration génétique dans d’autres pays. La génétique Simmental canadienne jouit réellement d’une réputation mondiale, avec des lignées très recherchées partout sur la planète. Nous devons toutefois transmettre ce message partout.

Tout comme ici au Canada, la race Simmental en Australie s’est développée dans plusieurs directions, qu’il s’agisse de sujets de type plus traditionnel, de bovins rouges ou noirs offerts aux producteurs commerciaux. De même, l’attrait est croissant envers les bovins SimmAngus, ce qui représente un autre créneau intéressant pour la génétique Simmental. L’organisateur du programme de visites dans le sud de la région de Rockhampton était M. Dick Whale des Services Indépendants d’élevage et de marketing. Celui-ci jouit d’une importante réputation à titre de consultant et il possède plusieurs contacts au sein de l’industrie bovine de l’Australie. Grâce à son réseau de contacts, nous avons rencontré les dirigeants de l’organisation “Meat and Livestock Australia”, lesquels nous ont permis d’acquérir une compréhension marquée de l’industrie bovine en Australie, de ses défis et des opportunités futures.

En plus des nombreux éleveurs rencontrés durant le forum “Boeuf Australie”, nous avons visité plusieurs entreprises ayant utilisé la génétique Simmental nord-américaine, soit : • • • • • • • • •

Dulverton Angus et Currawee Composites L’élevage Wombramurra Booragul Angus Hicks Beef Brewer Simmentals Peringa Livestock Webb Simmentals L’élevage Coolana Lancaster Simmentals

35

Top 50 Sires 2014

36

Regnum Tattoo

Name

Tot

Regnum Tattoo

Name

Tot

694665

LFE 322U

LFE BS LEWIS 322U

320

773998

DDDS 150Z

3D RED POWER 150Z

61

697657

MRL 12U

MRL RED FORCE 12U

170

753794

ZDS 250Y

ANCHOR D IMAX 250Y

60

736758

WFL 23X

WFL IDENTITY 23X

142

751008

LFE 449Y

LEF SPRINGSTEEN 449Y

58

744464

FGN 623X

MR HOC BROKER

129

654937

FGN 244R

TNT TOP GUN R244

57

701002

CHMP 60U

CHAMPS BRAVO

128

666762

LER 680S

WHEATLAND BULL 680S

57

744058

FBL 7Y

MAF R HORIZON 7Y

110

758832

RLD 273X

DOUBLE BAR D THUNDER 273X 56

735481

DDS 483X

3D BLK FULL THROTTLE 483X 109

693891

ALLM 25U

ALLM COLOSSAL 25U

51

766965

TKAS 11Z

SVS CAPTAIN MORGAN 11Z

109

731768

LFE 7328X

LFE JUSTIFIED 7328X

50

744279

LFE 3036X

LFE RED CASINO 3036X

106

782330

FGN 768Z

TNT BOOTLEGGER Z268

50

727456

HAR 111X

HARVIE JDF WALLBANGER 111X 105

755252

FGN 79T

NICHOLS MANIFEST T79

50

736441

MBJ 52Y

SPRINGCREEK LOTTO 52Y

98

684082

FGN 1P

SHS ENTICER P1B

49

745178

FGN 8676U

MR NLC UPGRADE U8676

95

699726

LFE 426U

LFEBISS BLACKADVANTAGE 426U 49

695165

CRF 789U

CROSSROAD RADIUM 789U

92

678615

KWA 5T

KWA RED ROCK 5T

48

739602

LRPS 145X

R PLUS HARD ROCK 145X

84

707131

FGN 6018S

MR NLC SUPERIOR S6018

48

729546

DCC 2X

DRAKE POKER FACE 2X

83

734970

IPU 49X

IPU RED WESTERN 49X

47

755730

NEAL 47Y

NCB COBRA 47Y

81

718093

KOP 137W

KOP CROSBY 137W

47

721721

MFI 22W

MFI JEREMIAH 9022

81

711827

FGN 40R

RC CLUB KING 137W

46

725782

MRL 91Y

MRL 91Y

76

722093

LER 958W

WHEATLAND EL TORO 958W 46

634702

FGN 737P

REMINGTON RED LABLE HR

72

736671

LRPS 110X

R PLUS 110X

46

727549

FGN 263U

TNT TANKER U253

72

634254

BBN 68P

KS BRAVADO P68

46

775788

MRL 52Z

MRL EL TIGRE 52Z

68

753020

IPU 41Y

IPU DIABLO 41Y

45

747559

KNTZ 4Y

KUNTZ SUPER DUTY 4Y

67

750626

KOP 95Y

KOP ESPOSITO 95Y

44

766259

KWAF 16Z

KWA FLYF RED MOUNTAIN 16Z 66

732472

NL 568X

LAZY S ROLEX 568X

44

766393

LRX 141Z

LRX THE GODFATHER 141Z

63

730354

LFE 529X

LFE BELLAGIO 529X

44

676236

FGN 208N

TNT GUNNER N208

61

713478

FGN 53T

KNK/CRSR RED BULL 53T

44

Top Total Herd Enrollment Members 2014

Mem#

THE Mem#

Farm Name

Farm Name

THE

3524

DOUBLE BAR D RANCH, GRENFELL, SK

890

20513

ERIXON SIMMENTALS INC, CLAVET, SK

180

23624

SODERGLEN RANCHES LTD, AIRDRIE, AB

824

2718

ROBB FARMS LTD, MAIDSTONE, SK

175

2587

LEWIS FARMS LTD, SPRUCE GROVE, AB

772

3769

STOUGHTON FARMS, MAIDSTONE, SK

171

2757

ERVIN HARLAND, FRENCHMAN BUTTE, SK

523

1010

DALE L. EYBEN, VERMILION AB

171

2970

MCMILLEN RANCHING LTD, CARIEVALE, SK

471

2798

BRIAN J. MCCARTHY, MOOSOMIN SK

166

3079

LAZY S RANCH INC, MAYERTHORPE, AB

435

1979

LABATTE SIMMENTALS, GLADMAR, SK

163

29461

R PLUS SIMMENTALS, ESTEVAN, SK

415

2037

ROLLING JN FARMS, ALIX, AB

158

42171

BONCHUK FARMS, SOLSGIRTH, MB

389

54683

CROSSROAD FARMS, SHELL LAKE, SK

158

44519

TERRY SKORETZ, SEDGEWICK AB

351

55418

WOLFE FARMS, VALLEYVIEW, AB

158

13182

PHEASANTDALE CATTLE COMPANY, BALCARRES, SK 341

44894

JAYDAWN FARMS, SEXSMITH, AB

158

3121

MAXWELL SIMMENTALS, VIKING, AB

307

3706

MARK LAND & CATTLE CORP, IRMA, AB

157

930

EDN SIMMENTALS, MAPLE CREEK, SK

301

55898

MCCORMACK FAMILY RANCH, GRENFELL, SK

155

41427

ASHWORTH FARM & RANCH LTD, OUNGRE SK

299

28861

DONNA ARTHUR, MAYERTHORPE, AB

146

41924

WESTGOLD FARMS LTD, MINBURN AB

291

41534

VIRGINIA RANCH, CREMONA, AB

144

20932

RENDEZVOUS FARMS, DAVID, STE. ROSE, MB

248

26723

O DOUBLE E SIMMENTALS, HYTHE, AB

841

PORTER RANCHES LTD, STONY PLAIN, AB

242

11294

DEEG SIMMENTALS, STRATHMORE, AB

142

21594

SPRING LAKE SIMMENTALS, DAYSLAND, AB

240

21993

HOEGL LIVESTOCK LTD, LLOYDMINSTER, SK

142

95344

BEECHINOR BROS SIMMENTALS, BENTLEY, AB

231

2642

OH KAY FARMS, RED DEER, AB

140

68384

MUIRHEAD CATTLE CO, WARD, SHELLBROOK, SK

229

35353

NEIL CARSON, ROSSBURN, MB

136

31215

ANCHOR D RANCH SIMMENTALS, RIMBEY, AB

229

20165

BOYNECREST STOCK FARM, STEPHENFIELD, MB

136

56010

WESTWAY FARMS LTD, DIDSBURY, AB

229

26493

KULYK SIMMENTALS, NORTH BATTLEFORD, SK

135

2835

MADER RANCHES, CARSTAIRS, AB

224

17782

WILLIAM A. SWENSON, RAINIER, AB

133

3666

MITCHELL CATTLE CO. INC, BARRIERE, BC

212

24361

BLACK GOLD SIMMENTALS, LLOYDMINSTER, SK

132

101709

MEADOW ACRES FARMS, LAMPMAN, SK

203

39347

DIAMOND T SIMMENTALS, BARRHEAD, AB

132

26007

ANDREW JANZEN, ROSEMARY AB

185

16915

DOUBLE G SIMMENTALS, STALWART, SK

130

143

37

L’amélioration des qualités maternelles de votre cheptel John Crowley 1,2 et Natalie May 2 Conseil canadien des races de boucherie 2 Livestock Gentec, University de l’ Alberta 1

B

ien qu’une grande importance de sélection soit placée vers les caractères terminaux, si on effectue une analyse d’un système donné de production bovine, on constate que les caractères maternels possèdent plus souvent qu’autrement une importance économique relative plus élevée que les caractères terminaux. Plusieurs caractères peuvent influencer la durée de vie productive d’une vache. Au moment de sélectionner nos génisses d’élevage, on souhaite garder celles qui devraient rester longtemps dans le troupeau, qui demeureront en santé et en bonne condition, tout en produisant annuellement un poids élevé de veau au sevrage. Toutefois, si on ne dispose pas des outils appropriés par rapport à certains caractères, il est alors difficile de prédire les futures qualités maternelles d’une génisse.

Le développement d’une génisse de la naissance jusqu’au moment qu’elle ait sevré son premier veau coûte cher, il est donc important qu’elle demeure en production pour plusieurs années.1 Les génisses doivent avoir une croissance adéquate afin d’atteindre rapidement la puberté (car l’atteinte de la puberté chez la femelle est influencée par sa grosseur et son état de chair), et elles doivent être suffisamment développées au moment de leur vêlage, ce qui minimisera les risques de problèmes au cours du vêlage.1,2 Les génisses ayant exprimé un cycle sexuel deux fois avant le début de la période de saillie auront 15% plus de chances d’être gestantes que celles ayant été saillies au moment de leur tout premier oestrus (soit la première vraie chaleur accompagnée d’une ovulation).2 Lorsque vous utilisez les EPD pour sélectionner vos meilleurs taureaux au niveau maternel, c’est-à-dire un taureau qui produira des femelles de remplacement de qualité, on doit considérer prioritairement des caractères maternels tels que la facilité de vêlage (FV), la facilité maternelle de vêlage (FMV), le poids à un an (PA) et l’aptitude laitière (Lait). Alors que certains vont affirmer que le poids de naissance (PN) devrait être sur cette liste, si vous visez un niveau élevé de facilité de vêlage et de facilité maternelle de vêlage, ainsi qu’un niveau élevé de poids à un an, il devient ainsi moins important de considérer le poids de naissance. D’autres caractères et leurs EPD peuvent faire partie de la liste des caractères maternels plus importants, soit l’âge au premier vêlage (APV), le taux de mortalité (% de veaux morts à la naissance; MORT), l’intervalle de vêlage (IV), la durabilité (DUR) et le poids de carcasse des vaches de réforme (PCVR).

38

Bien que tous ces EPD puissent aider à identifier les génisses qui deviendront de bonnes femelles reproductrices, il est tout aussi important de considérer la structure fonctionnelle de la femelle si on veut prédire sa durabilité dans le troupeau. Une femelle peut avoir la meilleure valeur génétique au monde mais, si elle ne possède pas une bonne stature, de bons pieds et membres, un pis et des trayons de qualité, elle ne devrait alors pas rester longtemps dans le troupeau. On doit pouvoir utiliser des cotes précises d’évaluation chez ces génisses si on veut tirer avantage de nos efforts de sélection et de réforme. Présentement, il n’y a généralement pas d’EPD disponibles pour les caractères fonctionnels et on élimine habituellement les moins bons sujets à partir de l’évaluation visuelle de leur conformation. Plusieurs facteurs ont une influence sur les caractères fonctionnels et la santé. Une mauvaise conformation au niveau des pieds et des membres peut réduire la durée de vie à long terme d’une vache. Une faible résistance à des pathologies courantes telles que la fourbure, la mammite ou d’autres problèmes peuvent aussi conduire à une réforme hâtive.

D’intéressants travaux de recherche ont été effectués en production laitière concernant la réponse immunitaire élevée (“high immune response”). Le test de réponse immunitaire développé par l’Université de Guelph permet de prédire quels animaux auront une incidence moins élevée d’être malades, car ils possèdent une meilleure réponse immunitaire primaire à la maladie. L’héritabilité de ce caractère est supérieure (0,25 ou encore 25% des variations de ce caractère est sous le contrôle de la génétique) à celle de la résistance à des maladies spécifiques, ce qui en fait un outil de sélection fort utile.4 Les bovins testés avec une réponse immunitaire élevée ont une incidence moins élevée de maladie, de même qu’ils seront moins atteints en raison d’une réponse accrue aux vaccins et au colostrum de qualité.

Jusqu’à maintenant, la sélection génétique par rapport au comportement des bovins est demeurée difficile. Alors qu’il est tout de même facile d’identifier et de réformer les animaux les plus nerveux ou démontrant trop d’agressivité, il serait préférable de pouvoir instaurer une stratégie de sélection à long terme contre de tels comportements. La sélection de bovins plus faciles à manipuler peut également améliorer la croissance, l’efficacité alimentaire et les qualités de la viande.5 Une tendance maternelle plus agressive représente une autre affaire, puisqu’il est fort utile que les vaches démontrent un certain instinct de protection, en particulier pour les troupeaux gardés en pâturages extensifs et avec une présence accrue de prédateurs.

On observe également des différences entre les troupeaux car une grande part de subjectivité demeure présente.

Toutefois, il est possible de constater des différences de comportement lorsque des animaux de races différentes sont élevés dans le même environnement et qu’ils ont un contact similaire avec les humains.5 L’héritabilité des caractères liés au comportement est modérée et on a identifié des marqueurs génétiques en relation avec le comportement. Certains de ces marqueurs sont situés près des récepteurs de dopamine du cerveau, ce qui pourrait nous aider à identifier les gènes responsables des différences de comportement entre les vaches.5 Comme cela est employé dans le secteur laitier et que ça devient de plus en plus utilisé en production bovine, le recours à des marqueurs d’ADN via la sélection génomique peut avoir une influence sur la précision de sélection. En fait, le taux de progrès génétique est amélioré de manière importante, car on est alors capable de sélectionner des animaux plus jeunes et avec la même précision que s’ils avaient déjà eu des descendants. L’emploi de la génomique chez les femelles ne fait pas l’unanimité dans le secteur, surtout si on considère le tout sous l’angle économique ; car les prévisions obtenues conduisent à une grande variation de recommandations. En fait, un EPD génomique (EPD-GE) chez une jeune femelle pourrait être équivalent à ce qu’elle possède déjà entre cinq et quinze descendants (selon le caractère considéré). Comme vous pouvez constater, cela viendra réduire considérablement l’intervalle entre les générations. Par contre, il faut tenir compte qu’une vache n’aura jamais un nombre de descendants aussi élevé que celui d’un taureau très utilisé, ne lui permettant ainsi pas de transmettre un nombre aussi élevé de gènes (à moins d’avoir été sur-ovulée).

La cueillette de données maternelles prend plusieurs années et le nombre de données par animal est limité. En production bovine, Van Eenennaam et Drake (2012) sont arrivés à la conclusion que l’analyse génotypique chez les femelles de remplacement ne vaudrait pas la peine tant le prix par test (au producteur) ne serait par rendu à 15 $.

Toutefois, en raison de la diminution significative du coût des analyses génotypiques et des autres frais associés, on

n’est peut-être pas très loin d’atteindre ce niveau de prix (si cela n’est pas déjà le cas grâce aux analyses génotypiques subventionnées).

Le troupeau de vaches idéales peut grandement varier d’un troupeau à l’autre mais, avec une compréhension accrue des caractères complexes affectant la longévité chez la vache, nous serons davantage en mesure d’aider les producteurs à sélectionner les meilleures vaches pour leurs troupeaux. Les progrès au niveau des caractères tels que la résistance aux maladies, les aptitudes fonctionnelles et le comportement peuvent également contribuer à maintenir des standards élevés en matière de bien-être animal et de rentabilité globale, grâce à la sélection des sujets ayant les meilleurs gènes favorisant leur longévité dans les troupeaux.

1. Engelken, T. J. 2008. Developing replacement beef heifers. Theriogenology. 70: 569-572.

2. Atkins, J. A., K. G. Pohler, M. F. Smith. 2013.

Physiology and Endocrinology of Puberty in Heifers.

Vet Clin Food Anim. 29: 479-492.

3. Ritchie, H. D. and Hawkins, D.R. Selecting Replacement Heifers. Beef Cattle Handbook – BCH1100. Iowa Beef Center.

4. Thompson-Crispi, K., and B. Mallard. We can now find the best immune systems. Hoard’s Dairymen.

Reproduction E-Sources.

5. Haskell, M. J., G. Simm, S. P. Turner. 2014. Genetic selection for temperament traits in dairy and beef cattle.

Frontiers in Genetics. 5: 368.

6. Van Eenennaam, A. L. and D. J. Drake. 2012. Anim.

Prod. Science. 52:185-196

39

Place Your Bet Bull Sale Veteran, AB March 14, 2015 Auctioneer: Don Oberg

Sale Summary

Lots

Yearling Simmental Bulls 66 Sale Total 66

Gross

Average

$366,850.00 $366,850.00

$5,558.33 $5,558.33

High Selling Simmental Bulls

40

Lot 62 - JLA Nashville 6B S: Maders Dirty Frank DS: STF Jalapeno Buyer: Colin & Sheila Campbell Consignor: Jelia Simmentals

$9,000.00

Lot 7 - South Holden Bynn 63B S: WJS Label Me Teddy 129X DS: South Holden Red Joke 92T Buyer: Raymond Arntzen Consignor: South Holden Simmentals

$8,500.00

Lot 19 - South Holden Bright 36B S: LCHMN Bright Light L122L DS: TNT Dynamite Black L137 Buyer: Ryan Buehler Consignor: South Holden Simmentals

$8,000.00

Lot 65 - JLA Kentucky 8B S: Maders Dirty Frank DS: HC Powerdrive 88H Buyer: Mark Galloway Consignor: Jelia Simmentals

$9,750.00

Lot 27 - Sun Star Nightwalker 25B S: Remington Red Mile 651Y DS: Remington Prowler 111T Buyer: Brett Twa Consignor: Sun Star Simmentals

$7,750.00

Lot 62 - JLA Nashville 6B S: Maders Dirty Frank DS: STF Jalapeno Buyer: Colin & Sheila Campbell Consignor: Jelia Simmentals

$9,000.00

Lot 4 - South Holden Bompeno 5B S: WJS Label Me Teddy 129X DS: South Holden Mr Bomb 7X Buyer: Larry Lupuliak Consignor: South Holden Simmentals

$7,750.00

Member Announcements CONGRATULATIONS

Congratulations to Katrina Papenhuyzen, Cottage Lake Livestock, and her husband Aaron Boulter whom were married May 30, 2015.

Morgan Dimler daughter of Ken and Shauna Dimler (Double Bar D Farms) married Josh Hassler from Kipling, Saskatchewan on May 1, 2015.

Pat and Janal Murray of Cedar Creek Simmentals in Ennismore, ON are happy to announce the arrival of Easton on May 26th. Big brother Tyson and big sister Ashlyn are excited to have a little brother to play with!

Kaitlyn Dimler daughter of Ken and Shauna Dimler (Double Bar D Farms) was married to Joachim Hanberg of Uppsala, Sweden on July 11, 2015.

They will be living in Moose Jaw, Sask.

Jeff and Crystal Hannaberry were blessed to be able to welcome into the Simmental world the newest member of the Bristolview Farms. Miss Hazel Grace Hannaberry was born April 8, 2015.

41

42

43

44

Simmeron Ranch Martin Skaret 1-56021 RGE. RD. 261 Sturgeon County Alberta, T8R 0V9 Ph: 780-939-3248 Cell: 780 913 7963 mskaret@xplornet.com www.simmeronranch.ca

45

BARRY & BRENDA LABATTE Box 72 Gladmar, Sask.

S0C 1A0 www.labattesimmentals.com Ph: (306)969-4820 labatte.simm@sasktel.net Cell: (306) 815-7900

Dave and Krista Erixon 306-270-2893

erixonsimmentals@sasktel.net www.erixonsimmentals.com Box 156 Clavet, SK S0K 0Y0 Red & Black Simmentals

46

47

48

23401 Big Bend Rd. Newbury, ON N0L 1Z0 Ron & Linda 519.695.6124 Mike & Melissa 226.268.0520

49

50

Auctioneer/Ringman

Industry Events

Photographers

Insurance

Trucking

51

Semen/Embryos

Marketing

BLI Bussiness Card Double 2015_Layout 1 2015-07

Box 1409 Crossfield, AB T0M 0S0 Office: 403.946.4999 Brian Bouchard: 403.813.7999 Darnell Fornwald: 403-795-8030 Chad Lorenz: 403.896.9585 Doug Domolewski: 403.635.1840 Email: info@bouchardlivestock.com

e Full Servic ting arke M k c o t s e Liv - Sale Managment - Consulting - Order Buying - International Export Approved Semen & Embryo Storage Facility

Brian

Darnell

Chad

WWW.BOUCHARDLIVESTOCK.COM

Semen/Embryos

52

#13, 4101 19th St. N.E., Calgary, Alberta T2E 7C4 P: (403) 250-7979 • F: (403) 250-5121 www.simmental.com • E: cansim@simmental.com CSA Executive

President Kelly Ashworth Oungre, SK P: (306) 456-2749 C: (306) 861-2013 jashworth@sasktel.net First Vice-President John Sullivan Kazabazua, PQ P/F: (819) 467-2713 Sullivan.simmentals@bell.net Second Vice-President Lacey Fisher Amherst, NS P: (902) 661-0766 C: (902) 664-6206 timberwoodfarms@seasidehighspeed.com

CSA Directors

Randy Mader Carstairs, AB P/F: (403) 337-2928 C: (403) 660-1123 rrmader13@gmail.com Wes Mack Estevan, SK P: (306) 634-4410 C: (306) 421-1853 wkmack@signaldirect.ca Blair McRae Brandon, MB P: (204) 728-3058 C: (204) 729-5439 marmac@inetlink.ca Maureen Mappin-Smith Byemoor, AB P: (403) 579-2175 C: (403) 321-0501 silversmithcattle@yahoo.com Lee McMillen Carievale, SK P: (306) 928-4820 C: (306) 483-8067 mrlbulls@gmail.com David Milliner Dundalk, ON P: (519) 923-9188 C: (519) 375-0122 dgmilliner@everus.ca

Provincial Associations British Columbia President Lorne Webster Abbotsford, BC P/F: (604) 823-6797 Secretary: Jan Wisse P: (604) 794-3684

Alberta President Ryley Mader Carstairs, AB P: (403) 337-4014 maderranches@gmail.com Office Contact Heather Saucier Airdrie, AB P: (403) 861-6352 F: (403) 948-2059 saucierh@telus.net Promotion / Fieldperson Chuck Groeneveld High River, AB P: (403) 938-7843 barnboss@telus.net Saskatchewan President Dave Erixon Clavet, SK P: (306) 270-2893 Secretary: Carolyn McCormack P: (306) 697-2945 sasksimmental@yourlink.ca

Manitoba President Everett Olson Rapid City, MB P/: (204) 826-2643 everettolson@mymts.com Secretary: Donalee Jones P: (204) 529-2444 Email: donalee@midcan.com Ontario President Tina Hiddink Bloomfield, ON P: (613) 399-3239 wildoak@xplornet.ca Quebec Président Sylvain Lambert La Presentation, PQ P: (450) 789-2188 Secretaire: Sandra Berthiaume Saint-Garmain, QC P/F (819) 395-4453 sandra.berthiaume@sympatico.ca Maritimes President Don Godfrey Meadow Bank, PEI P: (902) 566-3613 Secretary: Jennie Mutch P: (902) 388-1613 jenniemutch@gmail.com

CSA Staff

General Manager Bruce Holmquist C: (403) 988-8676 bholmquist@simmental.com Office Manager Barb Judd P: (403) 250-7979 bjudd@simmental.com Industry & Member Services Meghan Black P: (506) 324-4825 mblack@simmental.com Processing Department Perry Welygan pwelygan@simmental.com Beth Rankin brankin@simmental.com Receptionist & Member Services Devra Leavitt reception@simmental.com YCSA & CSA Programs Coordinator Carla Schmitt P: (306) 221-7950 cschmitt@simmental.com

Table of Contents Publication Information................................. 2 From The Gatepost........................................6 LMAC Auctioneer Championships................10 Breeding for a Better Cow Herd....................12 Queens of the Pasture Photo Contest.............14 From the Field................................................17 Women in Simmental Country.......................18 YCSA Newsletter...........................................21 YCSA Report.................................................22 From the Director’s Chair..............................23 Alberta News.................................................24 Saskatchewan News.......................................25 Manitoba News..............................................26 Ontario News.................................................27

Quebec News.................................................28 Maritime News...............................................29 Calendar.........................................................30 Vet’s Advise...................................................32 Gatepost (French)...........................................34 Top 50 Sires 2014..........................................36 Top Total Herd Enrollment ...........................37 Breeding for a Better Cow Herd (French).....38 Summer Synergy............................................40 Member Announcements...............................41 Canadian Simmental Association Contacts...53 What’s Happening..........................................54 Advertisers Index...........................................55 Did You Know?..............................................56

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What’s Happening July Jul. 30-1

Nov. 5-8

Canadian Simmental Convention & YCSA National Classic, Lindsay, ON

August

Commercial Country September Issue Advertising Deadline Friends of the Canadian Simmental Foundation Auction, Lindsay, ON

Aug. 11

Saskatchewan Simmental Association AGM & Golf Tounament, Moose Jaw, SK

Aug. 19

Livestock Gentec’s 2015 Field Day, Lacombe, AB

Lloydminster Stockade Roundup, Lloydminster, SK

Nov. 6-15 Royal Agricultural Winter Fair, Toronto, ON Nov. 6

Aug. 1 Aug. 1

Royal Elite All Breeds Sale, Toronto, ON

Nov. 10-15 Farmfair International, Edmonton, AB Nov. 10-15 Spring Evaluation Data Entry Deadline Nov. 14 Pembina Triangle Simmental Association 35th Annual Sale, Cypress River, MB Nov. 15

Aug. 27-30 Buckley Valley Exhibition, Smithers, BC

Central Invitational Simmental Sale, Woodville, ON

Nov. 15

September

Hudson Pines Living Legacy Sale, Camppbellsburg, KY

Nov. 20

Jewels and Diamonds Simmental Production Sale, Ponoka, AB

Nov. 21

Western Harvest Simmental Heifer Sale, Innisfail, AB

Sep. 1 Sep. 12

October Issue Advertising Deadline 13th Annual Ontario Autumn Simmental Classic Sale, Hanover, ON

Nov. 23-28 Canadian Western Agribition, Regina, SK

Sep. 25-27 Maritime YCSA Classic,

Windsor, NS Sep. 26

1st Annual Eastern Harvest Female Sale, Sainte-Sophie-De Levrard, PQ

Sep. 30

Friends of the Canadian Simmental Foundation Scholarship Deadline

October November/December Winter Issue Advertising Deadline River Point Cattle Co. Internet Sale Glencoe, ON

Oct. 2

Bar 5 Extravaganza “Frozen Genetics Sale”, Markdale, ON

Oct. 3

Bar 5 Farms Extravaganza Fall Production Sale, Markdale, ON

Oct. 10

Expo Boeuf - National Simmental Show, Victoriaville, PQ

Oct. 10

Livestock Gentec Annual Conference, Edmonton, AB

Oct. 16

Anchor D Ranch Pasture Treasures, Rimbey, AB

Oct. 22-26 WLB Livestock’s 3rd Internet Female Sale Oct. 24 Edam Fall Fair Commercial Cattle Show, Edam, SK Oct. 24

Partners For Progress Sale Shefford, PQ

Rust Mountain View Ranch “Queens of the Pasture” Female Sale Turtle Lake, ND Oct. 29-31 Manitoba Livestock Expo Brandon, MB Oct. 26

Nov. 25

Agribition Simmental Sale Regina, SK

Nov. 28

Marywood Clasic Bull & Female Sale Listowel, ON

Nov. 30

Harvest Hoedown Simmental Heifer Sale Neepawa, MB

December

Oct. 1 Oct. 1-4

Oct. 16-18 Elm Tree Farms 1st Annual “Endless Possibilites” Online Sale Oct. 17 Ottawa Valley Simmental Club Harvest Sale, Metcalfe, ON

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November

Dec. 1 Commercial Country January Issue Advertising Deadline Dec. 4 Lonestone Farms Red Angus & Simmental Bred Heifer Dispersal

Westlock, AB Dec.7-13 IRCC Xmas Internet Sale Dec. 7

The Source of Elite Simmental Genetics Sale, Lloydminster, SK

Dec. 8

37th Annual Keystone Konnection Simmental Sale, Brandon, MB

Dec. 11

2015 MRL Herdbuilder Female Sale, Carievale, SK

Dec. 13

Mar Mac Farms New Generation Angus and Simmental Female Sale, Brandon, MB

Dec. 14

Shades of the Prairies Simmental Sale, Brandon, MB 2016 Total Herd Enrollment (THE) Deadline Bonchuk Farms Fall Female Production Sale, Virden, MB

Dec. 15 Dec. 15 Dec. 18

4th Annual Friday Night Lights Simmental Sale, Olds, AB

Dec. 19

Checkers Simmental Sale, Ponoka, AB

Dec. 19

Transcon’s National Trust On Ice Cahpter VIII Sale, Red Deer, AB

Dec. 31

New Years Resolution Frozen Genetics Sale Volume IV, Saskatoon, SK

ABC Cattle Co................................................ 45 Adair Ranch.................................................... 42 Afri-Can Simmentals....................................... 47 AgriClear......................................................... 11 Alameda Insurance Ltd................................... 51 Alliance Simmental Farms ............................. 48 Alta Genetics.................................................. 52 Anchor D Ranch............................................. 42 Applecross...................................................... 42 Ashworth Farm & Ranch Ltd.......................... 45 Aumack Simmentals....................................... 46 Bar 5 Farms................................................ 5, 48 Bar CL Livestock............................................ 42 BBBG Simmental.............................................. 4 Beagle Simmentals......................................... 42 Beechinor Bros. Simmentals.......................... 42 Big Rock Simmentals..................................... 42 Black Gold Cattle Co...................................... 10 Black River Farms ......................................... 48 Blacksand Cattle Company............................ 47 Blushrose Simmental Farm............................ 46 Body Condition Scoring.................................... 8 Bohrson Marketing Services........................... 52 Bonchuk Farms ............................................. 48 Bouchard Livestock International................... 52 Bova-Tech Ltd................................................. 52 Bow Valley Genetics....................................... 52 Braeden Weppler............................................ 10 BS Ranch....................................................... 42 Canadian Bull Congress................................. 51 Carey, Brent.................................................... 51 Car-Laur Simmentals................................ 10, 48 Casaloma Cattle Company............................. 46 Cattlemen Magazine....................................... 51 Circle 3 Genetics............................................ 48 Circle G Simmentals & Angus........................ 42 City View Simmentals..................................... 46 Clearwater Simmentals.................................. 42 Crimson Tide Fleckvieh.................................. 48 Crossroad Farms ........................................... 46 Czech-Mate Livestock.................................... 42 Davis-Rairdan Embryo Transplants Ltd.......... 52 Deeg Simmental............................................. 42 Destiny Simmentals ....................................... 48 Diamond T Simmentals.................................. 43 Don Heggie Simmentals................................. 43 Donovandale Simmentals .............................. 49 Dora Lee Genetics.......................................... 49 Dorran Marketing Inc...................................... 51 Dorran, Steve................................................. 51 Double Bar D Farms .............................. IFC, 46 Double G Simmentals..................................... 46 Downey Farms............................................... 48 DP Sales Management................................... 52 Dunc’s Cattle Co............................................. 49 Dwayann Simmentals..................................... 49 Eagle-Ridge Simmentals................................ 43 East Polar Simmentals................................... 46 Edge, Dean..................................................... 51 EDN Simmentals............................................ 46 Elm Tree Farms.............................................. 49 Erixon Simmentals.......................................... 46 Fallen Timber Farms...................................... 42 Ferme Gagnon Farm...................................... 50 Ferme Saro Farm........................................... 50

Flying N Cattle and Feed................................ 51 Foley Simmentals........................................... 49 Genex Cooperative Inc................................... 52 GJR Simmentals............................................. 46 Grant Rolston Photography Ltd...................... 51 Gravandale Farms.................................... 10, 49 Grinalta Farms................................................ 43 H.S. Knill Company Limited............................ 51 Hairy Hill Cattle Co......................................... 43 Hallridge Simmentals...................................... 49 Hannah Simmentals....................................... 43 Harvie Ranching....................................... 15, 43 High Bluff Stock Farm..................................... 48 High Country Cattle Services......................... 43 Hi-Tech Farms ............................................... 49 Hoegl Livestock.............................................. 46 Indian River Cattle Co.................................... 49 Janzen Brogan Embryo Services Ltd............. 52 Janzen Ranches............................................. 43 Jetstream Livestock........................................ 49 JNR Farms..................................................... 43 Keato Meadow Simmentals............................ 43 Kin Kin Cattle Co............................................ 43 Kuntz Simmental Farm................................... 46 LaBatte Simmentals....................................... 46 Lazy Bar-B Simmentals.................................. 46 Lazy S Ranch Inc........................................... 43 Lewis Farms............................................ BC, 43 Little Willow Creek Ranch............................... 46 Livestock Gentc.............................................. 16 Lobster Point Farms ...................................... 50 Lone Stone Farms ......................................... 43 M & J Farms .................................................. 48 M & R Cattle Co.............................................. 44 MacKenzie Cattle Company........................... 43 Mader Ranches.............................................. 43 Maple Key Farm............................................. 49 Mappin Simmentals........................................ 44 Mar Mac Farms ............................................. 48 Masterfeeds.................................................... 50 Maxwell Simmentals....................................... 44 McCormack Family Ranch............................. 46 MCG Simmentals........................................... 44 McIntosh Livestock......................................... 47 McManus Simmentals.................................... 48 McMillen Ranching Ltd................................... 47 Meadow Acres Farms..................................... 47 MI Simmentals................................................ 43 Mitchell Cattle Co........................................... 42 Muellers Nossa Terra...................................... 50 Muirhead Cattle Co......................................... 47 New Holland..................................................... 1 North Creek Simmentals ............................... 47 North Hill Simmentals..................................... 44 Norwood Family Farm.................................... 10 O Double E Simmentals................................. 44 Oakview Simmentals........................................ 3 O’Brien Farms ............................................... 49 O’Grady Steel................................................. 50 Okotoks Fleckvieh Embryo Group.................. 44 O’Neil Cattle Company................................... 10 Oslanski Simmental Farms............................. 44 Parkhill Ranches............................................. 44 Parkview Stockfarms...................................... 44 Pearson Simmentals...................................... 44

Pheasantdale Simmentals.............................. 47 Phillips Farms ................................................ 50 Pine Creek Simmentals.................................. 44 Porter Ranches............................................... 44 Pro Rich Seeds............................................... 48 Rainalta Simmentals & Charolais............... 9, 44 Rancier Farms................................................ 44 Red Rose Angus ............................................ 47 Rehorst Farms Ltd.......................................... 10 Rendezvous Farms ....................................... 48 River Point Cattle Co...................................... 49 Riverbank Farms ........................................... 48 Robb Farms.................................................... 47 Robson Acres................................................. 49 Rovin Acres.................................................... 10 SAJ Simmentals............................................. 47 Saugeen Acres............................................... 44 Schatz Simmentals......................................... 44 Simmeron Fleckvieh Simmentals................... 45 Skeels, Dan.................................................... 51 Skor Simmentals............................................ 45 Southpaw Cattle Company............................. 45 Spring Creek Simmentals .............................. 47 Spring Lake Simmentals................................. 45 Starwest Farms.............................................. 42 Steen Agencies............................................... 51 Stewart Simmentals ....................................... 49 Stock, Mark..................................................... 51 Stockman’s Insurance.................................... 51 Stone Simmentals.......................................... 45 Stoughton Farms............................................ 47 Sullivan Simmentals ...................................... 50 Sun Rise Simmentals..................................... 47 Sun Star Simmentals...................................... 45 Sunny Valley Simmentals............................... 47 Swan Lake Farms .......................................... 47 Swantewitt Simmentals.................................. 45 T Bar C Cattle Co..................................... 33, 52 Timberlind Auctions........................................ 51 Tinley Harvie................................................... 15 Todd Simmentals............................................ 50 Transcon’s Livestock.................................. 4, 52 Transcon’s Livestock.................................... IBC Trevor’s Cowpix.............................................. 51 Triple Rose Simmentals................................. 49 TSN Livestock................................................ 48 Twin Brae Simmentals.................................... 48 Twin Butte Simmentals................................... 45 Tymarc Livestock............................................ 45 Tyryon Simmentals......................................... 50 Vail View Farms.............................................. 10 Virginia Ranch................................................ 45 W2 Farms ...................................................... 47 Weldehaven Farms ....................................... 50 Wells’ Crossing Cattle Company.................... 45 Westway Farms Ltd........................................ 45 Wild Oak Farms ............................................. 49 Windy Knoll Farm........................................... 50 WJ Simmentals .............................................. 45 Wolfe Farms .................................................. 45 Wolfe’s Fleckvieh............................................ 45 Xcel Livestock................................................. 50 XRC Simmentals............................................ 47

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ACCESS TO PARENTAGE RESULTS

Currently Parentage testing results arrive electronically every Thursday at the CSA office; this frequency may increase in the fall as processes are updated at Delta Genomics.

Members are contacted by the CSA office immediately if there are any problems via email, fax or phone.

If there are no problems with the parentage results, the Parentage certificates are mailed out as quickly as possible, however this is dependent on the volume of other work that is received in the office. There is however two ways for members themselves to access the SNP results for animals that have been tested.

1) ONLINE LOGIN – for those members that are setup on our Online System, you can view if any parentage results have arrived for your animals by looking under either – My Registered Males | My Registered Females or My Unregistered Calves.

2) CSA PEDIGREE SEARCH – any registered animal can be queried using the search engine that is provided on the Canadian Simmental Association website by looking under – Searches | Pedigree Search.

NOTE: We still require members to allow for a 4 week turnaround in processing as there is no rush process. If you require a copy of the Parentage results and you have not yet received them in the mail, any CSA staff member can print them off and forward them to you immediately.

Should you have any questions regarding the results please contact the CSA office at 403 250 7979 or by using our toll-free number 1 866 860 6051.

GENOTYPE TEST REQUIREMENTS

As of JANUARY 1, 2015 all Simmental sires are required to be genotyped using a minimum 50K SNP panel. Natural service sires now require the same level of genotype testing as AI sires who have had this requirement since November of 2012. This is a higher density, more informative panel that will add value to the Simmental genetic evaluation. All donor females continue to require a 50K test.

GENOTYPE AND PARENTAGE RESULTS TURNAROUND TIME

Members are reminded of the need to allow a MINIMUM OF 4 WEEK TURNAROUND time from the time the lab receives their samples for genotyping until they receive results.

Tel: (403) 250-7979 Fax: (403) 250-5121 Email: cansim@simmental.com Website: www.simmental.com #13, 4101-19th St. NE., Calgary, AB T2E 7C4

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Su mme r 2015 Q u e e n s o f t h e Pas t u r e Simm ental Countr y

Summer 2015

In This Issue:

Photo Contest From the Director’s Chair Women in Simmental Country