The American Black Hereford - Spring 2020

ABHA PO Box 2607 Bowling Green, KY 42101 RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED

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Features

SPRING 2020 Volume 5, Issue 2

Junior National Rules Page 12-15

Keeping the Commercial Cattlemen in Mind Page 21

Also in this Issue: DNA Sampling: What You Need to Know...20 Creep Feeding...22 Lessons I’ve Learned as a Ranch Mom...26

In Every Issue 6 8 10 18 24

4

President’s Thoughts Board Briefs Association Update Breeder Spotlight

25 28 29 33

Sale Report

The American Black Hereford is published quarterly by the American Black Hereford Assoc.

PO Box 2607 Bowling Green, KY 42101-2607 Marketing, Events & Billing Beverly Chafton, 833-501-4750 opt. 1 Reg, Membership, DNA & Supplies Jennifer or Cheryl 833-501-4750 opt. 2 www.blackhereford.org Graphic Design & Advertising: Leanna McGuire &

Juniors Corner Five Points Upcoming Events

New Members

The American Black Hereford

On the Cover Photo taken by Bradley Wilson.

Have a cover photo? Send to cbrownabha@gmail.com

Members of the Livestock Publications Council Spring 2020

Scan the QR code above to visit the ABHA website

IS OUR

Genetic packages will be available in Spring 2020.

Shoals, Indiana

Steve Jones and Family

812-295-6412

Legendary Livestock Sullivan, Indiana

Brian, Sharon Gilham and Family

812-564-2486

Spring 2020

The American Black Hereford

5

Presidents Thoughts

T

Carol Dewrell ABHA President

he deadline for this issue coincides with the NCBA Convention coming to a close.

All I can say is wow! It was huge, it was crowded, and it was so good for our breed to have a presence there.

We made well over 1,000 personal contacts, and had cattlemen and women from all across the USA excited about becoming breeders including several from the Navajo Nation and Hawaii! There are feeders who want our calves, commercial cattlemen who want our bulls, seedstock producers from other breeds who either want to switch to Black Herefords, or add them to their programs. Serious cattlemen are now seeing the potential of the American Black Hereford.

We have a lot happening! The Southern Classic Sale is just around the corner, and we have some exciting consignments for that April 18th event in Henderson, Texas. Members who had stepped away from the Association, are returning, and have renewed confidence in the ABHA. They are consigning, and planning to buy - once again investing in our breed.

The 2020 ABHA Junior Nationals will be held June 24 - 27 at Murray State University in

Murray, Kentucky. I hear the facility is great, and enthusiasm is high. This is going to be an event full of fun and excitement, rewarding the Juniors for all of their hard work and dedication.

My friends, everywhere I turn I am met by respect for, and interest in our breed. American Black Hereford cattle are on their way UP! Catch the excitement! Are you ready? Grab your hats!

Let’s GO! ABHA

Logan Hill, Jennifer Hill and Carol Dewrell attended the NCBA Convention & Trade Show to represent the ABHA breed.

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The American Black Hereford

Spring 2020

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7

Board Briefs

2 Logan Hill ABHA Secretary

020 is starting off with a bang for the American Black Hereford Association! Registrations, DNA submissions, and all other incoming work has increased and is on a positive trend for the year. ABHA has signed a longterm service partnership with the American Chianina Association, so all Digital Beef customer service and DNA sample submissions will run through their office in Platte City, MO. Please note the address change for these types of business. All other business will continue to be done in the ABHA office in Bowling Green, KY. Inputting Red Hereford and Angus cattle foundation animals into your herd inventory for future use in the ABHA will now cost $6 per entry. This charge is to offset the labor and time required to enter these animals.

There has been some staff change over in the Bowling Green office. Beverly Chafton will now be taking over the duties formerly handled by Rachel Hardin and some of the duties performed by Jordan Batey.

Everything is on track for the ABHA Southern Classic Sale to be an excellent event and we are looking forward to having a great sale.

Junior Nationals will be held on June 2427 at Murray State University in Murray, KY. Plan on attending and supporting your juniors!

I hope everyone is going to have a profitable Spring and the right amount of moisture at the right time! ABHA

ABHA Officers President:Carol Dewrell 850.259.5207 Vice President: Matt Marsh 912.425.0365 Treasurer: Jason Shroeder 573.680.1439

Board Members: Mark Baxter 605.472.3253 Tammy Bargen 402-209-0958 Jason Schroeder 573.229.8997

Secretary: Logan Hill 970.629.8807

ABHA Staff Beverly Chafton

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The American Black Hereford

Spring 2020

Darrell Selby 270.566.2624 Robert Walters 270.832.1180

Check out this embryo package available at the 2020 Southwest Breeders Sale on April 18th in Henderson, TX

All proceeds will be donated to the ABHA Juniors!!!

Selling a package of 3 embryos out of the 2019 ABHA Supreme National Champion Female, 3 C’s Elegance 2214 E19 and sired by the Legendary Livestock power bull, LL Mighty Cool Dude.

LL Mighty Cool Dude

X 3 C’s Elegance 2214 E19

Donated by: ABHA President Carol Dewrell. DCD Land and Cattle

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Spring 2020

The American Black Hereford

9

Association Update

By Carol Dewrell, ABHA President I wish to inform you that Jordan Batey, who has been handling the registrations in the ABHA office is moving to Tennessee. She has done a terrific job for us, and we are saddened to see her go, but we are equally excited to announce that Jennifer Roach will be handling our registrations, memberships and DNA once again! You will hear a familiar voice answer when you call with questions or needs!

Please make note of the following changes: The ABHA telephone number for Registrations, Memberships, and anything related to DNA testing is : 816-431-6960.

Effective immediately, the new mailing address for Registrations, Memberships, and DNA samples is:

American Black Hereford Association P.O. Box 857 Platte City, MO 64079 Our Bowling Green office will be staffed by Beverly Chafton who you will also enjoy knowing. Beverly will be our bookkeeper, sale catalog compiler, show entry secretary, and all around life saver. She and Jennifer are looking forward to serving you, and I am confident that they will serve you well! The Bowling Green office phone number remains : 833-501-4750.

Thank you for your understanding, cooperation, and support!

1 Corinthians 1:10 #teamABHA

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The American Black Hereford

Spring 2020

2020 ABHA

JUNIOR NATIONAL JUNE 24TH - JUNE 27TH

Murray State University

MURRAY • KENTUCKY SHOWMANSHIP • TEAM FITTING • JUDGING CONTEST AGE GROUPS: Juniors: 9-12 Intermediate: 13-16 Senior: 17-21

ENTRY RULES: • • • • •

Early bird entries are due by May 1st, 2020 All entries are due June 1st, 2020 All animals must be registered with the ABHA prior to sending in entries Please indicate on entry if the animal is Bred and Owned Ownership deadline is June 1st, 2020

LOOK FOR MORE DETAILS AT WWW.BLACKHEREFORD.ORG Spring 2020 The American Black Hereford 11

ABHA Junior National Rules The 2020 ABHA Junior Nationals will be held June 24th -27th at the Murray State University in Murray, Ky. This will be the 4th Junior National event for the ABHA. Last year’s event was a great success with juniors participating from many states across the country. This junior committee has been working hard planning this year’s event in the hopes that it will be bigger and better.

While the displaying and showing of the junior’s cattle is a big part of the event, more importantly is the opportunity that it brings to get our youth involved in our association. There will be many events other than the show that our juniors may participate in that allows them to interact with each other and the adult members This will also be the 4th year for our junior scholarships for those that will be continuing their education after high school. The support and contributions to the funds by the membership has been fantastic. If you wish to contribute to the fund please make your check to the AJBHA and mail to the Bowling Green, KY office.. We will also be crowning our American Black Hereford Queen. Our current Queen will be passing

her crown and rein over to the newly elected queen during the event.

Kenadi Rumble, has lived up to expectations and has done a great job in representing the breed as ABHA queen.

All of the entry forms and rules will be on the ABHA website and you will only be able to submit your show entries, scholarship applications, and queen applications online. Please pay close attention to all entry deadlines.

The education that this event provides for our juniors is very valuable and something they look forward to. It is a fun 3 days. The support and guidance that we provide for junior members molds their future in regards to our breed and the cattle industry in general. There are a lot of volunteers that help make this event possible along with many corporate sponsors and individual supporters. I encourage all of you to get involved either by donating your time or through sponsorships. For more information on the junior nationals please contact Brian Gilham, Junior committee chair person at 812-564-2586 or Beverly Chafton at theABHA Office at 833501-4750 option 1 or email beverly@blackhereford.org ABHA

ABHA Junior National Rules UPDATED 2/28/2019

Mail entries to the Junior Nationals, American Black Hereford Association, P.O. Box 2607, Bowling Green, KY 42102. NO LATE ENTRIES WILL BE ACCEPTED.

GENERAL RULES 1. Exhibitor must be at least 7 years old and less than 22 years old by January 1, 2020 and a member of the American Black Hereford Junior Association (ABHJA). Dues are $25 and must be paid prior to entry.

Membership forms may be downloaded at blackhereford.org 2. All animals must be registered with the ABHA. 3. Each entry must be owned solely by the junior exhibitor(s) and in his/her recorded ownership before June 1, 2020. Siblings may jointly own animals, provided both are members of the ABHJA and meet ABHJA age requirements. No animal is eligible to compete if recorded in joint ownership (other than the sibling rule), and no joint ownership with farm name or family name.

4. Horned, de-horned or scurred animals are eligible to show.

5. ONLINE ENTRY FEE IS $40 PER ENTRY UNTIL JUNE 1, 2020.

MAIL IN ENTRY FEE IS $50 and must be postmarked by JUNE 1, 2020. A bedding fee for barn stalls is included in the registration fee.

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The American Black Hereford

Spring 2020

6. Final Entry and Ownership Deadline is June 1, 2020. All animals must be registered and transferred prior to the June 1, 2020 entry and ownership deadline date.

No late transfers or entries will be accepted. Entries with “pending” listed, as the registration number will not be accepted, and entry will be refused. This includes calves showing on the sides of cows in the cowcalf pair show. Entry fees are non-refundable. Calves showing part of a pair, can be shown on their own, a separate entry fee is due.

7. Cattle may begin arriving at 1 PM CST on June 24th, and MUST be on the grounds and checked in by 10 AM CST on June 25, 2020. NO EXCEPTlONS. 8. Hard copy registration certificate must be presented at checkin. Tattoos that are missing, illegible, altered, incorrect and/or in any other way disagree with the official ABHA records will be justifiable cause for disqualification of entry. Check tattoos well before leaving for the ABHJA. ABHA Staff or designated individual can ask to check tattoos at any

time.

9. Entries must meet Kentucky health regulations. All animals must have an official health certificate. Refer to Kentucky Health Requirements.

10. Exhibitor must show his/her own animals. Only exhibitors who are in attendance at the AJBHA and are physically unable to show the animals due to illness or injury will be excused. In the case of extenuating circumstances, the family must come to the ABHA board/staff, in which case, the board of directors / staff have sole discretion as to whether the animal may be shown by a substitute showman. Owner may secure another junior member to show his/ her animals if excused or if exhibitor has more than one entry in the same class. It is recommended that if you have more than one animal being shown in a class you utilize a fellow junior from your own state to assist. No adult may assist exhibitor in showing.

11. Exhibitor must wear a button down collared shirt, close-toed leather boots and jeans or dress slacks in showmanship. The official show shirt must be worn for shows.

Entry numbers must be worn on chest/back. Additional show shirts may be purchased.

12. If all requirements aren’t met, the ABHA Board and staff reserve the right to disqualify any entry.

13. All persons making entries in the show shall agree to abide by all the rules and regulations as outlined and will not hold the American Black Hereford Association or the 2020 American Black Hereford Junior Association Show Committee organizers responsible for accident, loss or injury to any person, animal or article.

14. Breeding cattle will not be weighed.

15. Due to Murray State University regulations and safety of exhibitors NO DOGS will be allowed on the grounds, in the tie outs, in the barns or in the coliseum.

16. Any animal a junior enters may be used in the team-fitting competition and/or be asked to be used in the judging contest.

STALLING -Stalling will be pre-assigned.

-No cattle OR tack is allowed in the barns until Wednesday, June 24, 2020 @ 11 AM CST. -All cattle exhibiting at the event must be stalled in respective space. If under special circumstance the case arises, petition may be made to show staff for relocation.

ANIMAL HEALTH All Kentucky origin livestock must meet the exhibition requirements in 302 KAR 20:065, as listed below. For additional or updated information, contact the Office of the State Veterinarian at (502) 573-0282 or visit the website at: http://www.lrc.state.ky.us/kar/302/020/065.htm.

Livestock exhibiting signs of any infectious, contagious or communicable disease such as, but not limited to, warts, ringworm, pinkeye or foot rot are not eligible for exhibition. All KY origin animals for exhibition shall be individually identified on a certificate of veterinary inspection written within the current calendar year. January 1 through December 31.

DIVISION BREAKS As Of Jan. 1, 2020

Pre-Prewee- 6 years of age or younger Peewee­- 7 to 8 years of age Junior - 9 to 12 years of age Intermediate - 13 to 16 years of age Senior - 17 to 21 years of age

SHOWMANSHIP -Divisions will be based on age as of Jan. 1, 2020.

-Each age division will have a class.

-Show staff will determine how to break each division if need be.

-Registration for showmanship will be made at animal check in.

-NO BULLS OR STEERS ALLOWED FOR SHOWMANSHIP.

17. The ABHA, reserves the right for all class winners and runner ups to be subject to DNA testing to verify parentage.

JUDGING CONTEST

18. lt is a policy of the AJBHA board of directors that if an animal gets loose in the showing, an exhibitor will be given two chances to regain control of said animal throughout the duration of that particular show. After the third instance exhibitor and animal will be dismissed from the showing by an ABHA board member or ABHA staff member

-Divisions will be based on age as of Jan. 1, 2020.

-Each age division will be scored separately.

- Junior and peewee division participants will answer one set of questions -Senior and intermediate division participants will answer one set of questions and give one set of reasons.

-Registration for contest will be made at animal check in.

-The maximum rotation for each class is 12 minutes.

19. lt is strongly advised that exhibitors bring generators for backup use.

Spring 2020

The American Black Hereford 13

ABHA Junior National Rules their product this may include flyers, brochures, ads, etc.

11. Exhibitors will have two (2) minutes to setup their presentation

TEAM FITTING CONTEST -Teams will be pre-assigned and announced at least one (1) hour prior to the contest.

-Each team will be comprised of three (3) members.

-Time limit of thirty (30) minutes.

-A team member must wear a show harness to display assigned team number -Contestants must bring any and all materials needed to the fitting area, including animal.

-Each team will be allowed the use of one blower.

-No improper fitting methods may be used.

-Clippers may be used at the discretion of team members.

-When time is called, one member from each team will exhibit the animal for final viewing and judging.

-Judging will be based on fitting techniques and outcome. In the ·event of a tie, teams will be allowed back in the chute for an additional five (5) minutes.

-No spectators, parents, etc. are allowed on the floor during contest.

INDIVIDUAL SALES CONTEST The main objective of the Individual Sales is to give Juniors a glimpse at real-life situations of selling while promoting the importance of communication skills, marketing technique and understanding of performance and pedigree information. The contest will be held in conjunction with the American Black Hereford Association Junior Nationals.

1. Contestants must be members of American Black Hereford Junior Association.

2. Individuals will compete in their corresponding age divisions.

3. Individuals must register in advance by June 1, 2020. There is no charge to compete in this contest.

4. Presentations will be 3-6 minutes long. The objective of each individual will be to convince the judges that they should purchase their entry.

5. Individuals may present any item that is related to the agriculture beef industry, i.e: an animal, embryo package, semen, etc.

6. Participants will be discounted for using notes.

7. The order of presentation will be determined by ABHA staff and will be posted prior to the contest.

8. Animals are not allowed in this contest; however, participants may use visual aids such as I-Pads, tablets, binder with information pertaining to the item being sold, etc.

9. No posters, dry erase boards etc. may be used during the presentation.

10. Senior and Intermediate contestants will be required to incorporate some form of graphic design and computer technology to design marketing materials that will supplement their presentation in the sale of 14

The American Black Hereford

Spring 2020

Scoring for Junior and Pee Wee Contestants: Points will be awarded as follows: Knowledge – 25 Points Ability to communicate- 25 points Organization - 25 points Overall effect -25 points (Salesmanship, Creativity/Originality, and Believability) Scoring for Senior and Intermediate Contestants: Points will be awarded as follows: Knowledge – 20 Points Ability to communicate- 20 points Organization - 20 points Overall affect -20 points (Salesmanship, Creativity/ Originality, Believability) Creative Design- 20 points Ten (10) points will be subtracted from the total if judges detect the use of notes. Two points will be subtracted for each minute a presentation goes more than the allotted 6 minutes.

Judging will be by a two-member panel of judges based on 100 points maximum from each judge. Each judge will then rank the individuals based on points allocated.

STEER SHOW -Percentage and Purebred steers are eligible for exposition in the Junior Steer Show -Entries will show by weight -There will be three (3) divisions -Lightweights -Middleweight -Heavyweight -Steers will be weighed prior to classing

COW CALF PAIR SHOW -All calves are to be less than 205 days of age on show day.

-No calves born before December 4, 2019 will be eligible to show.

-One entry fee is required for pairs.

-lf calf is shown again on its own, an additional entry and fee is needed.

-Percentage and purebred calves are eligible to show.

-Classes will be based on the age of calf.

BULL SHOW -Percentage and Purebred bulls are eligible to show -Bulls one year of age and older must have nose lead -Bull maximum age limit day of show is 24 months of age

HEIFER SHOW HX (are not eligible to compete for overall champion) F1 (50%.Angus / 50% Hereford) Percentage (62.5 - 87.49% Hereford Blood) Purebred (87.5% or Higher Hereford Blood) Haltered heifers will be shown in three Divisions: Calf Division (Born Jan 1, 2020 and after) Junior Division (Born Jan 1, 2019 – December 31, 2019) Senior Division (Born Nov 1, 2018- Dec 31, 2019) Haltered classes will be determined after all show entries are processed.

There will be no more than a 60-day spread of age in any class and no more than 8 in an individual class. The committee reserves the right to adjust these classes.

Bred and Owned Heifers will compete for Bred and Owned Heifer Champion.

BRED & OWNED

To be eligible to show in Bred and Owned show is that the exhibitor (s) must have owned the entry’s dam at the time of conception and must be listed as the breeder and owner on the registration certificate.

If it is an ET animal the exhibitor must own the donor dam of the animal.

The breeder of the animal must be the individual and not a farm name If the heifer, steer, or bull that is bred and owned is select as Grand or Reserve Champion of their group they would automatically be Grand Champion Bred-and-Owned of their group.

Heifers, Steers, and Bulls will all have their own Bred-and Owned classes Heifers will show in their respected group for Bred and Owned: HX, F1, Percentage and Purebred Steers will show in their respected group for Bred and Owned: Percentage and Purebred Bulls will show in their respected group for Bred and Owned: Percentage and Purebred

The following will be awarded for class placing: 1st 5 points 2nd 4 points 3rd 3 points 4th 2 points 5th 1 point The following will be awarded for division placing: Division Champion- 2 points Reserve Division Champion- 1 point The following will be awarded for Champion placing: Grand Champion- 5 points Reserve Champion- 4 points

PREMIER ADULT BREEDER The same point system for the Premier Junior exhibitor will be used to calculate the premier breeder.

STAR JUNIOR This award will look at the exhibitor’s participation in contests and their placing from show classes.

Each Contest Participation- 1 point Contest Placinglst- 5 points 2nd- 4 points 3rd- 3 points 4th- 2 points 5th- 1 point Exhibitors top placing animal in class: 1st- 5 points 2nd- 4 points 3rd- 3 points 4th - 2 points 5th- 1 point Exhibitors top placing division animal: Divison Champion 5 points Reserve Division Champion – 4 points

Show Champion placing.

Grand Champion Animal- 10 points

Reserve Champion Animal- 5 points

ABHA

PREMIER JUNIOR EXHIBITOR

The results from the show will be used to calculate the Premier Junior Exhibitor. In the event of a tie the results of showmanship will be used to break the tie.

Spring 2020

The American Black Hereford 15

I By Jennifer Hill

Keeping the Commercial Cattlemen in Mind

n the seedstock world fads, especially with bulls, come and go. Like all fads, the body type and style that makes you a killing one year may leave you disappointed the next. Short of a crystal ball these fads can oftentimes be hard to predict and their popularity hard to maintain. However, there is one sector of cattlemen that are typically less inclined to chase tomorrow’s fad and have instead found the solid consistency and performance they need in the American Black Hereford, the commercial cow/calf producer.

Cow/calf producers from Mexico to Canada have found the steadfast, hardiness they seek in their herds in the Black Hereford and meeting their specific needs can be a great way for any breeder to develop a strong customer base that will seek their animals out year after year.

One of the great, unsung benefits of the Black Hereford breed is that without knowing it many cow/calf producers are already familiar with the outstanding performance the breed can provide. For decades many cow/calf producers have been crossing traditional Herefords on anything that might throw some black color as they try to reach a premium at market. They’ve been breeding this undefined hybrid for a long time and may be open to hearing about why moving directly to Black Herefords could improve their calves. Explaining the benefits of more consistent coloring which brings more consistent premiums at auction and the improved carcass quality of Black Herefords becomes a doable sell.

However, these commercial cow/calf producers know that they must be incredibly selective in their breeding choices and they often have no time or patience for fads that can sometimes bring ribbons in the showring but trouble on the range. Luckily for Black Hereford breeders our breed can not only shine at any show but can also provide the backbone of our industry with those beef

traits they value so highly.

Commercial cattlemen seek long term structural soundness, calving ease, appropriate milk production and a quick rate of gain. They study the EPD’s on potential purchases because they know that the breeding decisions they make will have long term consequences. In the last decade we have seen the Black Hereford breed make drastic strides in cutability, confirmation, ease of travel and growth traits, all of which makes the breed ideal for any rancher looking to make real improvements in his herd.

While the breed is incredibly versatile and adaptable it is important to remember your market. Breeders must keep in mind what the regional needs and expectations of cattle in their area are. For instance, buyers in the west expect their cattle to cover a lot of ground while grazing and place a high value on structural soundness. Buyers in the north know that hair cover is going to become incredibly important in the winter months while cattlemen in the southeast may be more concerned with an animals ability to shed off hair.

Reaching out to previous customers to find out what they think of the calves produced by your animals can insure that you are on the right track with these buyer expectations. Sometimes this may lead to an awkward conversation with an unhappy buyer (you can’t please everyone) but the information you glean can be highly valuable. Additionally, the personal touch added through that conversation can lead to a long term customer relationship, which is every seedstock producers goal.

At the end of the day, selling Black Herefords in any market really comes down to education because once cow/ calf producers understand the value, background and predictability of these registered animals they can’t help but realize that the breed meets their most important needs. ABHA

Cow/Calf producers need animals that are adaptable to their climate and situation. Black Herefords are uniquely qualified to meet their demands.

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The American Black Hereford

Spring 2020

There is much more to breeding cattle than just selecting a sire that you like

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Missouri Meadows Farm

M

issouri Meadows is located in West Central Missouri and is operated by Aaron and Amy Schroeder along with their two boys, Jack and Isaac. Aaron and Amy’s goal is to leave their sons with a herd of functional cattle that possess the genotype and phenotype the cattle industry demands, and that they can be proud of.

Thirty-one years ago, Aaron was introduced to the Santa Gertrudis breed and knew then that Gerts were going to be part of his future. His father, Richard, encouraged his goals and supported him even though many people questioned the idea of having a herd of eared cattle. In his early 20’s, Aaron was involved in a car accident that led to the amputation of his right leg. He persevered and became known in the cattle barns at the State Fair as “the one legged guy who raises Gerts.”

Several years later Aaron met Amy and the two of them bought their own farm, calling it Missouri Meadows. Shortly after, Jack and Isaac came along for the ride to assist in the daily chores of running their farm. As with any farm, there are always challenges to overcome. Missouri Meadows endured two droughts and two tornados that destroyed outbuildings and damaged the home. The family rebuilt both times.

Wanting their boys to enjoy cattle as much as they do, Aaron and Amy bought Jack and Isaac their first cows, a couple of Herefords, so they could easily identify them as the cows with the white faces. As both Aaron and Amy are educators, they firmly believe in staying abreast with education, technology and trends that are vital in the success of their operation.

Enrolling the boys in 4-H, Aaron became their beef leader and taught the boys about heterosis, and interpreting epds. Using the classic example

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The American Black Hereford

Spring 2020

of producing a black baldy for heterosis, Jack created a project that was selected to go to the State Fair.

As time went on, Aaron became a member of the National Santa Gertrudis board. While serving on the board he was diagnosed with stage four cancer. Feeling the need to put things in high gear, they put a bull on the national show circuit receiving National Best of Polled and High Point Bull. Jack showed a few heifers but discussed with his parents that he really preferred cattle with the white faces, actually, black cattle with white faces.

Aaron thought Jack was referring to Simmentals but soon realized Jack wanted Black Herefords like the cattle in his 4-H project.

Aaron remembered the support his father provided when he himself wanted Gerts and realized it was time to pass the torch and support his own son. Aaron and Amy took Jack to the National Sale in Sedalia, Missouri and bought three open heifers from Sweet T Farms. The next year they attended the sale again and bought more. Later, a third drought prevented them from securing enough hay to carry their herd through the winter. Recognizing the docility of the Black Herefords and the potential the breed could hold for the future of their family, they elected to put the family’s cattle operation and the industry before the breed. They took the plunge and dispersed their herd of Santa Gertrudis cattle, but kept the small Black Hereford herd intact. After researching bloodlines all winter, the next spring they invested more in Black Herefords and Hereford cattle, focusing on specific cow families that would shape their herd. Aaron has beaten his stage four cancer and now the family is persevering as their new adventure begins. ABHA

ONE THE MOST COMPLETE AND ELITE BLACK HEREFORD SALES IN THE WORLD

Black

6th annual

IS THE

Color

P ro d u c t i o n S a l e

Saturday, MARCH

21st • NOON CT

L . D. B ROW N AG R I C U LT U R A L E X P O SI T ION C E N T E R Wester n K Y University w B ow ling Gre en, KY

Approximately 100 Lots: STOUT & POWERFUL TWO-YEAR-OLD AND LONG YEARLING BULLS YOUNG, PRODUCTIVE 3-IN-ONES, BRED COWS, BRED HEIFERS OPEN HEIFERS, & EMBRYO PACKAGES

ANGUS AND BLACK HEREFORD CATTLE Proven genetics from our long running program.

Functional, dependable and profitable cattle, breed for real world.

LIVE BROADCAST & BIDDING ONLINE TRIPLE T FARMS

Tim & Teresa Tarter 606-305-2289 2616 Hwy 1664 Nancy, KY 42544 ngsstriper@hotmail.com www.tripletblackcattle.com Spring 2020 The American Black Hereford View sale photos & videos at WWW.TRIPLETBLACKCATTLE.COM

19

DNA Sampling: What You Need to Know

I

By Leoma Wells Strategic Account Manager, Neogen

’m confident we’ve all heard the common phrase “just pull hair” when someone is asking about collecting a DNA sample on an animal. Well folks, it’s time to ask around again because over the last few years there’s a newer technique becoming wildly popular with producers. Allflex Tissue Sampling Units or “TSUs” as they’re commonly referred to in the industry, are quickly taking over as the DNA sampling method of choice.

If you haven’t heard of TSUs yet or even if you’re a current user, here’s some tips, tricks and information you may find useful.

Getting Started

• You will need to order an Applicator (Figure 1) and TSUs. Contact ABHA or your Neogen territory manager for more information.

• Read or watch a video with the instructions on how to properly collect a TSU sample.

can also order matched sets from Allflex that include a dangle tag, EID and TSU. • If the tissue is stuck at the top of the TSU and not submerged in the buffer solution, you can tap it lightly on a table or flick the tube with your finger so the tissue will fall in to the liquid.

Lastly, here’s a few more considerations to take in to account when ordering DNA sampling materials so you’ll be able to make the best decision for your operation.

• All three sampling types mentioned are relatively easy Sample Type

Sample Failure Rate

Allflex Tissue Sampling Units(TSUs)

*1.2%

Blood Cards

*2.5%

Hair Cards

*2.5%

Easy to Collect (producer)

Efficient to Process (lab)

Able to Use on Twins

Sample at birth

*Sample failure rates may vary based upon individual collection proficiency

Tips

• If calf has been freshly tattooed, avoid the tattoo ink when collecting the sample.

• Verify there’s tissue present in the TSU before releasing the animal. When in doubt, take another sample.

• If sampling the calf at birth, make sure to wipe the ear with a dry towel to ensure there’s no DNA transference from the dam.

• When you get back to the office, check each TSU and ensure the tissue is submerged in to the buffer solution (liquid) inside the tube. At the lab we will sample the buffer solution to run the testing, not the tissue itself.

• You can store TSUs up to one year at room temperature.

Tricks

• Each TSU comes with an individual cutter. To eject the cutter pull the handles of the applicator apart before loading the next sample.

• Make sure you are noting down which animal was sampled. If you order the 10 count TSU boxes you’re able to write the tag number on the box insert (Figure 2).

• Get in the practice of sampling the calf at the same time as tagging it. You can take the TSU sample and then insert the dangle tag through the same hole. You

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Spring 2020

for a producer to collect.

• TSUs are the most efficient sample type for the lab to process, followed by blood cards. Hair samples are extremely inefficient for the lab to process; therefore, an additional fee is invoiced on all hair sample submissions.

• Blood samples are not recommended for twins since they typically result in a sample failure, requiring the producer to submit another sample for testing. The producer would be invoiced for all costs associated with testing, not to mention the additional time required to collect and submit the new sample. Make sure to use TSUs or hair samples on twins.

• TSUs and blood cards can be collected at birth. If you wish to use hair, it is recommended to wait for the calf to be at least 90 days of age.

Thus, after reading this article, you may be asking yourself, so why are we even discussing blood and hair cards as options if Neogen only wants producers to submit TSUs? The answer is simple. In the real world we realize there are circumstances that come about and are beyond your control. We also understand you’re at the mercy of the situation and may need to improvise so it’s imperative to be informed on the options. Being prepared and armed with knowledge when it comes to DNA testing will set you up for success. Therefore, to avoid getting yourself in a possible pickle, make sure to place an order for your DNA materials so you can have them on hand and at the ready when you need them. For more information on DNA sampling please reach out to your Association or Neogen territory manager for assistance.

ABHA

Spring 2020

The American Black Hereford 21

Creep Feeding

Base Creep Feeding Decision on Genetics, Nutrition Programs, Grazing Conditions, and Marketing Strategies Chris Hagedorn, ADM Animal Nutrition Beef Business Manager

C

reep feeding may be a viable economic proposition depending on herd genetics, environmental conditions (succulent grass versus drought conditions), and marketing strategies, such as retained ownership, timing the selling of finished cattle, and beef alliances. Over the past 40 years, cattle types have dramatically changed the genetic potential for growth. A better understanding of the impact of feeding grain to calves on grass has led to improvements in creep feeding programs that favor better performance. Creep feeding may be advantageous when utilizing marketing strategies that offer economic incentives for larger calves at weaning or that can get calves off to a faster start in the feedlot.

Also, research has shown source of creep feed, amount of creep feed, and length of time calves receive creep feed have an influence on carcass quality.

Growth

Creep feeding may jump start calves with better genetic potential for growth. The expected increase in weaning weight due to creep feeding has dramatically increased since the 1960s (350-400 lb versus 550-600 lb).

Along with larger weaning weights, efficiency of creep feed utilization has improved due to improved formulations, feed additives, and improvements in the genetic base of cattle.

Research

Research has shown preweaning performance of creep fed calves is higher and subsequent feedlot performance of creep fed calves is similar to that of non-creep fed calves, and creep fed calves have a higher quality grade when slaughtered. Table 1 shows the preweaning performance of creep fed versus non-creep fed calves. The 93 lb gain over non-creep fed calves is common with large-framed, growthy calves. The creep fed calves were 21 lb lighter at the start of the trial and 72 lb heavier at weaning. It should be noted the creep feed in this study did not contain an ionophore.

Under practical farm or ranch conditions, where strict adherence to a research protocol is not required, combinations of technologies can be practiced.

Table 2 shows the subsequent feedlot performance and carcass characteristics of the calves in the study. In contrast to what many cattle producers believe, creep fed calves performed similar to non-creep fed calves in the feedlot. The creep fed calves weighed 72 lb more at weaning going into the feedlot and weighed 64 lb more at slaughter. Thus, they maintained most of their weight advantage throughout the feedlot period.

Further, the creep fed calves had a higher quality grade (low choice versus high select). More total pounds of beef were sold at a higher market price due to creep feeding.

Highest Value

Nutrition

Within the past 15 years, nutritionists have gained a greater understanding of the potential for “negative associative effects� from feeding grain in a forage-based diet. Simply put, rumen microbes that ferment grain are a different population of microbes than those that ferment forages. Feeding grain can set up fermentation competition between feedstuffs (grain or forage) in the rumen. Supplementing the energy of forage-based diets with ingredients that contain highly digestible structural carbohydrates (fiber) is more effective than using grain (non-structural carbohydrates). Structural carbohydrates complement the fermentation and growth of microbes in the rumen because they are fiber-based like forage. Hence, fermentation efficiency is enhanced.

Creep feeding may be a good match for management systems that retain ownership or try to market slaughter cattle earlier in the year. Historically, the high for the cattle market occurs during the spring, generally April.

When comparing a five-year average to a 15-year average, the seasonal high appears to be moving earlier with time. A sizeable gap in price from the yearly high to the yearly low frequently occurs. Producers that can time marketing cattle ahead of the peak, increase their chance of selling on a higher market.

With the industry emphasis on value-based marketing, retained ownership, Ranch-to-Rail programs, and alliances to develop branded beef products, studies have been conducted to determine the impact of creep

Table 1 Preweaning Performance of Creep Versus Non-Creep Fed Calves* Non-Creep Control Initial weight, lb Weaning weight, lb ADG, lb Extra gain, lb Creep feed intake, lb/hd Supplemental F/G

318 483 1.46 ----

*Hummell et al. 1991. University of Illinois 22

The American Black Hereford

Spring 2020

Ad Libitum Creep 297 555 2.29 93 567 6.02

Table 2 Effect of Creep Feeding on Subsequent Feedlot Performance and Carcass Characteristics* Non-Creep Control

Ad Libitum Creep

Initial weight in feedlot, lb/hd

483

555

Final weight, lb/hd

1050

1114

ADG, lb

2.32

2.29

F/G

7.24

8.12

Yield grade

2.9

3.2

Quality grade**

9.75

10.67

*Hummell et al. 1991. University of Illinois **Scale: High Select = 9; Low Choice = 10; Average Choice = 11

feeding on carcass quality. Table 2 shows carcass quality was higher when calves were creep-fed. Higher quality carcasses can lead to additional profit potential when marketing cattle under value-based marketing grids.

Grazing and Cow Condition

Grass savings and improved cow condition can be major benefits of creep feeding. These factors are often overlooked when evaluating the economics of creep feeding. However, there are many misconceptions regarding these factors. Few studies have been conducted to quantify differences in forage availability due to creep feeding. Analyses of three studies from the University of Illinois are helpful in quantifying grass savings. The studies were conducted in three separate years. Each had a similar design and variable levels of creep feed were used in each. Across the studies, the range in creep feed intake varied from 0 to 6.2 lb creep per calf daily. Regression analysis shows that for each pound of creep feed dry matter (DM) that a calf consumes, total DM intake will increase about 0.33 lb per day, forage DM intake will decrease about 0.66 lb, and milk intake will remain constant. Therefore, if calves are consuming about three lb of creep feed DM daily (3.3 lb as-fed), they will consume about one lb more total DM daily, but about two lb less forage DM daily.

Cow milk production will remain constant provided adequate forage is available and the suckling stimulus is present. Even though a calf will consume creep feed, it still prefers to suckle. Several studies have indicated milk intake of creep fed calves is similar to non-creep fed calves. Therefore, cow body condition can be improved only if forage availability and quality is increased when the calf is creep fed.

A University of Missouri study suggests that stocking rate can be increased by about 10% when creep feeding. This rate fits well with the data from the Illinois studies referred to previously. A 10% difference in stocking rate may seem low to some cattle producers, but remember

stocking differences are based on a cow-calf unit. The calf is the smaller animal, and it is the one consuming less forage due to creep feeding. Yet, in drought years, a 10% forage savings can make significant differences in cow condition and winter nutrient reserves for the grass. It follows that under conditions where forage quality or quantity is limited (e.g. drought, fall calving), creep feeding calves may help benefit cow production by enabling the cows to be in needed body condition for breedback.

Bottom Line

Creep feeding will not fit the management objectives of every cowcalf enterprise. Producers should analyze their management skills, growth potential of calves, marketing strategy, and range conditions to determine economic feasibility of creep feeding. Creep feeding may be particularly enticing to those producers that retain ownership or are involved in valuebased marketing.

Rough-N-Ready™ creep feed products from ADM Animal Nutrition contain highly digestible fiber sources, which complement the forages calves consume. Highly digestible fiber sources also encourage lean growth rather than fleshiness and reduce the changes of digestive upsets, such as acidosis, bloat, and scours, which can occur with grain-based creep feed.

The Rough-N-Ready lineup offers highly palatable products and flexible product options to meet the goals of individual cattle operations.

For additional information on incorporating Rough-N-Ready into a Creep Feed Program, contact ADM Animal Nutrition at 866-666-7626 or log onto their website at ADMAnimalNutrition.com.

Rough-N-Ready is a trademark of ADM.ABHA

Spring 2020

The American Black Hereford 23

New Members New Annual Members Alabama BALDWIN FARMS JOSHUA BALDWIN 283 COUNTY RD 552 FYFFE, AL 35971 JRB2.JB@GMAIL.COM 256-899-7305 CALIFARMS BLACK HEREFORDS JOHN W DUBAY 6730 ELAINA LANE TUSCALOOSA, AL 35406 JWDUBAY@AOL.COM L & L CATTLE JIMMY MOTES / DAVID MOTES / VANN BRADFORD 29222 MASON WOODFIN RD HARVEST, AL 35749 DAVIDMOTES1980@GMAIL.COM 256-658-7751 Arkansas SAM W ROBERTS 4520 MEADOW LAKE RD BRADFORD, AR 72020 SMALLENGINESALES@SUDDENLINKMAIL.COM 870-523-4914 J & K FARMS KEITH PIGG 2409 STOWE RD NEWPORT, AR 72112 SMALLENGINESALES@SUDDENLINKMAIL.COM 501-626-7315 Colorado CRAZY R RANCH BRENNAN AND MICAH REEDER 4202 SAN JUAN AVENUE LAJUNTA, CO 81050 CRAZYRSEVEN@GMAIL.COM 7199282366 ROCKINDLO RANCH DARREN OSBMENT 692 S COUNTY ROAD 181 BYERS, CO 80103 THERANCH@ROCKINDLO.COM 303-408-4469 Illinois LANE SHEVLIN 5151 KASKASIKIA RD WATERLOO, IL 62298 JESS.SHEV84@GMAIL.COM

24

The American Black Hereford

Indiana COLLOM FARMS DAN, KATHY & LUCAS COLLOM 4103 E SCHOOL RD ROSEDALE, IN 47874 KCOLLOM@NETZERO.NET 765-548-2898

Minnesota GENE BERTRAM LIVESTOCK BERTRAM & CHRISTINE PARKER 24025 FARWELL AVE MORRISTOWN, MN 55052-5039 GENEBERTRAM731@GMAIL.COM 716-870-3041

Kentucky BEVERLY CHAFTON PO BOX 2607 BOWLING GREEN, KY 42102 BEVERLY@BLACKHEREFORD.ORG 833-501-4750

North Carolina K & B FARMS ALEX WALSH PO BOX 1155 ROBBINSVILLE, NC 28771 KBLANDCLEARING@YAHOO.COM 828-371-3822

CLUBB & CLUBB FARM LLC LEVI CLUBB 6010 BETHLEHEM RD PLEASUREVILLE, KY 40057 DEANCLUBBJR@GMAIL.COM 502-550-4080 POPPLEWELL FARMS ALEX K POPPLEWELL 1176 CLEARFORK RD RUSSELL SPRINGS, KY 42642 POPPLEWELL.FARMS@ICLOUD.COM BOBBY & JENNY SOUERS 826 ELLIS RD EMINENCE, KY 40019 JMSOUERS@MAC.COM 502-548-1320 WOMACK CATTLE WAYDE AND GLENDA WOMACK 2685 ELMO RD PEMBROKE, KY 42266 GJW210@GMAIL.COM 270-484-0286 YOUNG’S FARM RICHARD AND MARILYN YOUNG 5 PIONEER CREEK WADDY, KY 40076 MANDRONSITESOLUTIONS@GMAIL.COM 502-320-1655 Louisiana TCR FARMS TJ CAMPBELL 2760 WILSON CAMPBELL RD VILLEPLATTE, LA 70586 TJCAMPBELL2760@GMAIL.COM 337-207-6293 Mississippi BERRY FARMS MICHAEL & LESLIE BERRY 191 JESSIE STOGNER RD SANDY HOOK, MS 39478 601-810-3167

Spring 2020

PETERS FARM RUBY PETERS 4449 WILES RD HAMPTONVILLE, NC 27020 PETERS356@HOTMAIL.COM 704-928-8458, Oklahoma ABT CATTLE BRADEN MORGAN 18637 W 171ST ST S KELLYVILLE, OK 74039 TIFFANYCARLILE18@GMAIL.COM 918-926-0199 Tennessee GREERS FARM JASON & ALLISON GREER 88 MCGINNIS LANE BRUSH CREEK, TN 38547 JAGREER10@YAHOO.COM LITTLE CREEK FARM TYLER BURKS 3076 LIBERTY HILL RD ALEXANDRIA, TN 37012 DBURKS@BAYSSOUTHERNBREAD.COM 615-557-3553 SMITH FARMS LIN AND MAC SMITH 1955 CONNIE SMITH RD SELMER, TN 38375 SMITHL71@HOTMAIL.COM 731-610-6547 Texas BAR N CATTLE CO MATHEW NEESE 1206 BROOKS ST NEW BOSTON, TX 75570 NEESEAG@YAHOO.COM 903-280-0905

Sale Report J & N Ranch’s Black Hereford Bull Sale Feb. 8th, 2020 Leavenworth, Kansas Auctioneer: Tommy Barnes Averages:

91 Black Hereford Bulls …………………………….. $4157

Total……..$378,250

37 buyers from 12 states and 2 different countries purchased 91 bulls in J&N Ranch’s 32nd annual production sale. 19 buyers were repeat customers. The first 40 bulls in the ring averaged over $5700. The sale prices ranged from a high of $12,500 to $2,250 over the 91 lots.

Mark Bengtson of Missouri Black Herefords in Huggins, Missouri purchased the high selling bull, JN Balder F540, out of the great D451 bull. He combined a 68 lb. birth weight with a 728 lb. weaning weight. He weighed 1755 lbs when the picture below was taken. He went directly into a semen collection facility and will be in service this summer at their ranch in Huggins, Missouri.

Other ABHA members buying bulls: Kendall Fisher of McCook, Nebraska bought JN Balder F455 for $10,000 Tommy Dugdale of Choudrant, Louisiana bought JN Balder F407 for $6750 and two other bulls.

Troy Phillips of Washington DC bought JN Balder F509 for $5750 John Howell of HSH Cattle in Columbia, IL. bought JN Balder GB405 for $5750 Other ABHA members buying bulls were Ray Marchant, Leo Antes, Sam Crabtree, Jeff Granger, and Todd Brown.

NEXT SALE:

Fall Production Sale October 10, 2020 Selling: 25 Black Hereford Bulls and 50 Registered Black Hereford females

JN Balder F540 our high selling bull bought by Mark Bengtson of Missouri Black Herefords.

Left to rigth: Mark Bengtson, Jodey Fulcher and Dirck Hoagland

Spring 2020

The American Black Hereford 25

Lessons I’ve Learned as a Ranch Mom

T

By Jennifer Hill

en years ago, when I first became a Mom I had no idea what I was in for. Sure, I’d raised my fair share of bottle calves, pups and whatever other needy animal showed up, but raising cowkids surrounded by thousands of acres of range has definitely taught me a few unexpected lessons.

Be prepared and pack like it’s the Armageddon. Every ranch wife has been asked to go out for a quick trip to check the cows, or a swift ride to gather just that small bunch in the back pasture, only to wind up spending the next 12 hours fighting with cows and wondering if that beef she left on the counter to thaw has spoiled yet. But once kids were added to the picture these unexpected long days became a bit trickier. I quickly learned that any venture out of the house (no matter how fast it was promised to be) requires the speedy gathering of approximately five pounds of shelf stable snacks (because these kids never stop eating!), a full bag of diapers, and a change of clothes for everyone involved.

Potty training is easier when you spend all day outside and everything is a toilet.

Have different rules for school. When my kids reached school age we knew that they would be a bit different from most of their peers. We don’t live in an agricultural community and I knew that most of their classmates and teachers would not have much insight into my kids’ life experiences. In an effort to prevent a catastrophic kindergarten year I prepared my kids with a few rules. 1.

You have to use the bathroom. I don’t care if the bush on the playground is in the perfect spot, or that you’ve spent more time urinating on plants than in toilets. 2. Absolutely no corral language. Even if you’re playing wild cow round up at recess or the lunch room serves chicken every day for a week. 3. Don’t blame the town kids, they don’t know any better.

Having the dreaded ‘’Birds and the Bees” conversation is much easier with livestock kids. In fact, we really haven’t had to have much of a conversation about it, they just know the facts because they see the life cycle in action every year.

However, my own kids’ acceptance of the facts of life doesn’t mean their school friends are prepared for the info.

Last winter I was left to do some explaining after my tenyear-old went to school and told everyone she’d looked at

Kids raised on a working farm or ranch are very adept at keeping themselves entertained.

26

The American Black Hereford

Spring 2020

Be prepared for some interesting artwork sent home from school! sperm under a microscope. You see, we’d just collected on a bull and the technician was nice enough to give her a lesson on what they were looking for. My science loving, veterinarian future dreaming daughter was thrilled, but her confused friends and teacher had some questions.

Letting your kids care for an orphaned animal can teach them some amazing life lessons, but be prepared for the consequences. As soon as my daughter was old enough to walk she wanted to mother every animal she encountered. Of course, this made her a natural fit to feed the dogie calves.

One less chore for me, right? She quickly learned to prepare the bottle correctly and the importance of following through on your job. She even learned to consider the advice of her elders after I had repeatedly told her not to let that calf suck on her fingers and nonetheless she still came home with a bloody finger and tear stained face. But she wasn’t the only one to learn some lessons. I found that you can confidently prepare your young daughter for the annual calf sale but you should still expect public tears when that dogie walks into the ring. I also learned to not be surprised to come home and discover that my house has been turned into a barn. While embarrassing to admit, I’d be a liar if I said I’d never found an orphaned baby goat wearing a diaper sitting in my living room.

If you’re ever caught in a bind, check a Ranch Mom’s coat. An inventory of any ranch mom’s work coat pockets would impress MacGyver himself.

At any time my pockets can be found to contain: various lengths of hay string, (some braided, some not), Pop Tarts (with a questionable expiration date), knife, at least two pairs of gloves, a small toy for keeping young children entertained, Chapstick, pen, feed tags from the last decade or two, a handful of sweet pellets, another pen (because the first one stopped working months ago but who remembers to throw that stuff

Ranch kids learn a big vocabulary from their on the job training that can cause interesting situations when shared at school. out?), sunscreen, a pile of tissues (in usable shape if you’re desperate), and enough small pieces of hay that if dumped together with the pellets would keep an nervous momma cow busy for a few minutes.

Farm and ranch kids really are the cream of the crop. In addition to my ranch duties I’ve also spent time as a public-school teacher and let me tell you, kids who come from farm and ranch homes truly are the best kids to work with. They’ve got a deeper understanding of responsibility and a stronger work ethic than most kids. They also enjoy the little things more and aren’t afraid to tackle something hard. However, they do find the concept of indoor recess on a frigid day to be absolutely ridiculous. ABHA

Spring 2020

The American Black Hereford 27

Junior Corner

By Jeffrey Calvert, Junior President

T

his will be my last Junior Corner. I have had the pleasure of being the Junior President for my last year as a junior. I have seen positive changes in the AJBHA. We have some great opportunities coming up for our juniors to participate in this year. The 4th annual Jr. Nationals will be held at Murray State and the theme this year is “The Breed with a Perfect Vision 2020.”

We will have Team Fitting, Individual Sales Talk, Photo contest, Showmanship, Livestock Judging, Quiz bowl. We have a new event called the Neatest/Creative Stall. The winner will have the honor of receiving the Golden Pitchfork. The Golden Pitchfork will be signed by the winners and brought back to the next Jr. Nationals for the next winner. The Photo Contest will be asking you to submit a digital copy and bring a hard copy with you to Jr. Nationals. The Junior Board has come up with new rules for the Bred and Owned Division.

They will have their own class and still show in regular class and a Bred and Owned class.

We are so excited for all of you to attend Jr. Nationals. We will be at a new location at Murray State in Kentucky. This year

for the Team Fitting Contest you will get to pick your own team of 3. The judges will have an opportunity to pick the top 3 individuals from any team for their work and communication in their team. All 3 individuals do not have to be from the same team.

There are also some other ways juniors can get involved and that is by applying for the Junior Board. We will also be crowning a new Queen and Princess at this year’s Junior Nationals so don’t forget to apply for them. Don’t forget to apply for the Scholarship, you don’t have to be an Ag major.

I have had the pleasure of representing the juniors and the Breed as the Junior President I am excited to see the future President to be the next to represent the breed in this position.

I have enjoyed this last year as a junior with all the special friends made along the way. I am excited to see what holds for me with the next chapter as I move on to the adult association.

I want to thank all who supported the juniors. I want to especially thank Tim and Teresa Tarter for all their help with the juniors last year. I would like to wish everyone good luck at Junior Nationals. The Jr. Board cannot wait to see you there. I cannot wait to see what the future holds for the AJBHA. Good luck to all exhibitors ABHA

YEARLING BULLS & TWO-YEAR-OLD BULLS FOR SALE PRIVATE TREATY

Mountain Fork

HEREFORD FARM 479-650-8906 479-414-7718

earleneboone@aol.com rboone8900@aol.com

www.mountainforkherefordfarm.com

RICHARD & EARLENE BOONE

3341 West Rodeo Crossing | Natural Dam, AR 72948

One of our leading herd sires: JN Balder A426 ET

BW ff.91 28

WW 47.36

YW 81.04

The American Black Hereford

Reg #HB004416

MILK 23.43

Spring 2020

M&G 47

FIND US ON FACEBOOK

T

he spring issue of The American Black Hereford finds us in the busiest part of the sales year. Through March, there have been several strong sales featuring Black Hereford cattle and the breeders who produce them, with many more to come in the very near future. Though we seem to have been stuck in the lower regions of the price cycle for quite a while now, 2020 has started off with what looks to be a renewed optimism in the entire beef cattle industry, with the success of these spring sales reflecting that optimism. As the season rolls along, there are a few points that I would encourage Black Hereford breeders keep in mind so that we continue to develop ourselves and this great breed of cattle.

Quality counts. When I was a younger man getting started in the beef business, a gentleman I respected gave me some words of wisdom that I still reflect on daily. He told me, “it’s not how good your best animal is, it’s how good your worst one is that matters.” As breeders continue to develop their program, more and more high-quality Black Herefords are becoming available. There has been tremendous growth in the numbers of ABHA cattle registered in the past decade, and the quality of the cattle also continues in an upward trend. Breeders and buyers should always be in search of better animals and fresh genetics to add to their respective operations. Like my mentor urged me to do, I encourage you to always try to make your worst animals better. Get out and see what other progressive breeders may have available and determine what can be best utilized in your own breeding program.

Performance data is more important than ever. Sales shine the light on the true value of the performance data turned in by breeders. Which is more valuable- a good animal or a good animal that is backed up by many generations of animals with solid performance data on record? The correct answer should be simple. The more that is known about an individual and its lineage, the more predictable its future should be, and as a result, the higher the true value that animal should be. In this growing breed of cattle, the need for producers to turn in DNA samples along with birth, weaning, and yearling weights is crucial, but it is just as important for potential buyers to pay attention to this data when selecting animals to add to the herd.

What you do today affects the future. Whether it is the straw of semen you thaw to artificially inseminate a cow, the purchase of an animal to add to your herd, or something as simple as turning in your performance data in a timely fashion, the decisions you make now will impact your program and the breed for years to come. The beef business is one of slow progress. Producers generally don’t see the results of their efforts for a year or longer after a decision has been made, making it vitally important to always try to make sound

mating and economic decisions. No one has all the answers, but by sticking to the basic principles of sound management and animal husbandry, producers can make the future look even brighter.

Continue to promote the breed. Go to a sale, ask questions, form friendships- do anything you can do to increase optimism and awareness of the breed. Trade shows and cattle association meetings are a wonderful place to spread the word and potentially recruit potential buyers for our product. I have made many great friends through my affiliation with the ABHA, and as a result, I became interested in starting my own herd of Black Hereford cattle.

I’m sure there are many more out there willing to do the same if only they were exposed to the breed. Be enthusiastic about and knowledgeable when having a conversation about our industry, because sometimes you don’t really know who is paying attention. This is exactly why it is so important to put your best foot forward and ensure that a good impression is made.

Support our juniors. It should go without saying, but our youth are our future. The more interested younger breeders become in the breed, the healthier the long-term outlook of the breed will remain. Many breeders and sales already offer buying incentives for juniors, and more shows and opportunities are becoming available to Black Hereford showmen. Steps have been taken by the ABHA board and many interested individuals to expand and develop the already strong base of juniors involved in ABHA activities. These steps taken are in no way trying to turn Black Herefords into “just a show breed”, but junior shows are among the best ways for our youth to get involved in the industry and should be approached as such. By increasing opportunities for younger members, logic says that everyone involved with the breed will reap the rewards of the increase in growth.

The Junior Nationals are just around the corner, and there is always room for volunteers wanting to become involved.

Even if you’re unable to help with the show itself, the presence of interested on-lookers is always welcome and appreciated by those involved. For more details or to see how you can help, contact President Carol Dewrell, the ABHA board, Junior Advisor Brian Gilham, or myself and we will get you pointed in the right direction.

The time is now to become active and get involved. By putting into action these five points of emphasis and by taking advantage of opportunities to promote the breed, we can continue making 2020 the best year yet for our own programs and the ABHA. ABHA Five Points is an informational and editorial article submitted each issue

by Bradley Wilson of BW Cattle & Photography, and ABHA Magazine Committee Chairman

Spring 2020

The American Black Hereford 29

BREEDER DIRECTORY

ALABAMA

COLORADO

Black Dragon CATTLE COMPANY

Wild Rose

Registered Black Herefords, Elevated

Logan & Jennifer Hill · 970-629-8807 Rangely, CO Black www.blackdragoncattle.com Dragon dragoncattle@gmail.com Cattle

Flying Diamond K Ranch

ARKANSAS

Ft. Collins, CO

“Gems of the Rockies”

Basin Creek Farm REGISTERED BLACK HEREFORDS

John & Phyllis Jackson

FDK BLACK DIAMOND SELB The ABHA Bull that has it all.

Conventional & Sexed Semen International Certification 96.5% Embryos Available

KEN PADILLA 970-204-1000 ken-padilla@comcast.net ett

2694 Gourdneck Valley Road Malvern, AR 72104

REG# HB009240

501-844-7167 501-844-7168 jackson2503@yahoo.com

basincreekfarm.com

IDAHO

Mountain Fork Hereford Farm

REG. R E BLACK HEREFORD & REG. POLLED HEREFORD

RICHARD & EARLENE BOONE

3341 West Rodeo Crossing | Natural Dam, AR 72948

479-650-8906 479 650 89906 06 479 479-414-7718 414 7718 71 earleneboone@aol.com rboone8900@aol.com www.mountainforkherefordfarm.com

ILLINOIS

HAMILTON’S

MADISON COUNTY AG AUCTION Hay and Straw IL Auction Lic. #041000806

MIKE HAMILTON - 618-410-4293 www.hamiltonhayauction.com

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The American Black Hereford

Spring 2020

LOUISIANA Mike Hamilton: 618-410-4293 Tyler Hamilton: 618-567-4339

NICK & KELLI HERRINGTON

Kyle Hamilton: 618-670-4027

318-282-0453

¶ Registered bulls - heifers - cow/calf pairs ¶ hamiltonfamilylivestock@gmail.com 7773 Vonnahmen h Road Bethalto, th lt IL 620100 V R d◆B

INDIANA

h5blackherefords.com Bonita, B t herringtonfarms@gmail.com

LLouisiana

MINNESOTA

BREEDER DIRECTORY

ILLINOIS

KROENING BLACK HEREFORDS 43419 310th Ave SE • Fosston, MN 56542

Heifers and Bulls For Sale Private Treaty u

Brian, Sharon Gilham & Family Sullivan, Indiana 812-564-2486

Legendary Livestock Black Hereford

IOWA

Source of high quality working Black Herefords

Richard & Julie 218-435-1223 ◆ 218-280-3790 Mike & Bridget 218-435-2033 ◆ 218-230-1173 EMAIL:

juliek@gvtel.com

MISSOURI

MARK NUELLE HUSCHER FARMS REGISTERED BLACK HEREFORDS

MARK NUELLE HIGGINSVILLE, MO 64037

Cell: 660-238-3207 • nuelle@ctcis.net

KENTUCKY Call or email today to get your business card in the next issue for as low as $50 per issue!

Call Leanna McGuire at 937-248-4119 or Carey Brown at 859-948-1256 or email lmcguireabha@gmail.com

Spring 2020

The American Black Hereford 31

BREEDER DIRECTORY

OKLAHOMA

JL

TEXAS

Jeff & Lanee’ Anderson 4809 W. Wood Road Waukomis, OK 73773

Legacy

580-747-1067

Black Herefords

jllegacyblackherefords@gmail.com

BRYAN VALDEZ 830-480-9513

PETER VALDEZ 210-834-2835

DOUBLE V BLACK HEREFORDS 1725 Vaness RD. Poteet, TX 78065 MAIL@DOUBLEVBLACKHEREFORDS.COM WWW.DOUBLEVBLACKHEREFORDS.COM

SOUTH DAKOTA

Lori Makarski Cavitt, MS, DVM, cVMA Justin Cavitt, MS, DVM Henderson, TX 903-657-9212 • www.hendersonanimalcaretx.com

Call or email today to get your business card in the next issue for as low as $50 per issue!

Call Leanna McGuire at 937-248-4119 or Carey Brown at 859-948-1256 or email lmcguireabha@gmail.com

32

The American Black Hereford

Spring 2020

Upcoming Events March 2020 March 16 Baxter Angus and Black Hereford Sale, Rockham, SD March 21 Triple T Farms Black is the Color Sale, Nancy, KY, See ad on pg. 19

April 2020

June 2020

June 24-27 2020 ABHA Junior National, Murray State University, Murray, KY. See ad on pg. 11

October 2020

October 10 J & N Ranch Fall Production Sale, Leavenworth, KS

April 18 Southern Classic Sale, Henderson, TX, See ad on pg. 21

Join the American Black Hereford Association

Membership Fees: Life Membership fee is $1,000 Annual Membership Fee $100 per year (Jan. 1 - Dec. 31)

New annual memberships are prorated based on quarter joined

Junior Membership Fee $25 per year (Jan. 1 - Dec. 31)

Junior memberships are available to persons under 21 years of age and junior membership privileges expire at age 21.

Upon becoming a member and, in consideration of acceptance, I/we agree to conform to and abide by the By-Laws, Rules and Regulations of the Association as Amended or Modified from time to time.

Application is hereby made for membership (Life, Annual or Junior) in the American Black Hereford Association.

__________________________________________________________ (Individual, Farm, Ranch, Partnership, etc.) __________________________________________________________ When you have completed the application, send it with the proper fee to Owner’s Name the Association at: PO Box 857, Platte City, MO 64079 __________________________________________________________ Mailing Address Membership Privileges: __________________________ ________ ________ - ________ 1. Only Life and Annual Members of the Association are eligible to City State Zip

register cattle in the American Black Hereford Registry. __________________________ _____________________________ 2. Each Life and Annual Member shall have one (1) vote per animal Home Phone # Cell Phone #

registered with the Association. Life and Annual Members may __________________________ _____________________________

not vote by absentee ballot.

Business Phone # Fax # 3. Each Life, Annual and Junior Member will be informed by Association __________________________ _____________________________

mailings on a routine basis of important matters for both the Email Website (if you want it linked to ABHA)

members and the ABHA. ________________________________________________ Birth Date - For Junior Members Only Upon becoming a member and, in consideration of acceptance, I/we ___________________________________ ___________________ agree to conform to and abide by the By-Laws, Rules and Regulations Signature Date Spring 2020

The American Black Hereford 33

Advertiser Index ABHA Junior Nationals 11 Acorn Ridge 5 Bacica Farms 32 Basin Creek Farm 30 Black Dragon Cattle Co. 30 Burton Cattle Company 31 Call Me Back Farms 30 DCD Land & Cattle Co. 10 Double V Black Herefords 32 Flying Diamond K 3, 30 Gro-Tec Inc. 9,35 Ground Zero Farms

36 H5 Ranch 31 Hamilton Hay & Straw 30 Hamilton Family Livestock 31

34

The American Black Hereford

Spring 2020

Henderson Animal Care Hospital 32 JL Legacy Black Hereford 32 Jo Bulls 7 Kroening Black Herefords 31 Legendary Livestock 5, 31 Longview Farms 31 Mark Nuelle Farms 31, 35 Missouri Black Herefords 35 Mountain Fork Hereford Farm 28, 30 Peaceful Valley Ranch 30 Smith Black Herefords 6 South Ark Cattle Co. 30 Southern Classic Sale 16 Triple T Farms 17,19 Wolf Black Herefords 2

MARK NUELLE HUSCHER FARMS DOO6

Purebred - Homo Black - Homo Polled 10324 West US 36 Modoc, IN 47358

PH: 765-853-1246 FAX: 765-853-5886 EMAIL: gro-tec@hotmail.com www.gro-tec.com

A World-Wide Leader in Nutritionally Balanced Feed Ingredients for Livestock, Poultry and Pets Featuring Livestock Premixes and Cattle Mineral

BW 2.34

WW 37.39

YW 60.60

M&G 41.95

Bulls for Sale by Private Treaty

MILK 23.25

MARK NUELLE• Higginsville, MO 64037 Cell: 660-238-3207 • nuelle@ctcis.net

We want to hear from you!

Have an article or topic idea you would like considered for The American Black Hereford?

Let us know!

ABHA Supreme Champion Female

ABHA Supreme Champion Bull

ABHA Reserve Supreme Champion Heifer

ABHA Reserve Supreme Champion Bull

What’s Inside: RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED ABHA PO Box 2607 Bowling Green, KY 42101

Carol Dewrell caroldewrell@gmail.com Carey Brown cbrownabha@gmail.com Leanna McGuire lmcguireabha@gmail.com

WINTER 2020

2019 ABHA NATIONAL SHOW & SALE RESULTS Winter 2020

The American Black Hereford

1

Spring 2020

The American Black Hereford 35

Where Champions

are Born

BULLS & HEIFERS FOR SALE AT THE RANCH GROUND ZERO FARMS

Rod Garman, Owner (479) 957-2068 62101 South 4680 Rd., Watts, OK 74964 WWW.GROUNDZEROFARMS.COM 36

The American Black Hereford

Spring 2020