TSLN winter cattle journal 2015

B E E F & BU SI N E S S

annual public ation | 2015 EDITION | VOLUME XIII

WIENKCHAROLAIS.COM

CONTACT

JEFF ESCHENBAUM 605.860.0505 JEFF@WIENKCHAROLAIS.COM STERLING ESCHENBAUM 605.203.0137 ARNOLD WIENK 605.860.1111 TY ESCHENBAUM 605.203.1082

FACEBOOK.COM/WIENKCHAROLAIS

27thAnnual

Bull Sale Ogallala Livestock • Ogallala Nebraska 1:00 mst

Selling 100 Registered Angus Bulls

BW -.5 WW +73 Milk +30 YW +121 $B +91.04

SAV Platinum 0100 • KM Broken Bow 002 TC Vance 011 • EXAR Upshot 0562B Basin Excitement • VAR Reserve 1111 SAV Final Answer 0035 • Sitz Upward 307R

SAV Platinum 0100 #16687592

BW -.2 WW +73 Milk +21 YW +130 $B +87.80

Martin Ranch sired Steer mates harvested Graded

100% Choice or Higher 39% Prime 52% CAB® 100% PREMIUMS PAID

Basin Excitement #16047404

BW -.8 WW +60 Milk +27 YW +103 $B +98.94

Large Selection of New Genetics Heifer Bulls!

KM Broken Bow 002 #16764044

BW +.8 WW +55 Milk +31 YW +99 $B +79.84

TC Vance 011 #16734345

Genomic Profile on all Sale Bulls by 100% Proven AI SIRED Large Selection of Half & Three quarter Blood Brothers FIRST BREEDING SEASON GUARANTEE • Volume Discounts Free Feed Free Delivery Updated EPD’s, Weights, Scrotal Measurements & Ultrasound Data

Replacement Bred Heifers Broody • Deep Ribbed • Cowboy Kind www CATTLEUSA com TJ, KRISTY, TANNER & TY MARTIN 1361 Keystone Sarben N Rd • PO Box 260 Keystone NE 69144 martin@lakemac.net Office (308-726-2855) • Cell (308-883-2333) Ranch located 11 miles east of Lake McConaughy Visitors Always Welcome!

EPD’s as of 11-18-14

Featured Sires Includes: 10751106R Foos Angus Ranch Crook MT Windy 91 C=1 M=1 Y=1 OtherReg# 16949707 Dianna Palmer, 1SD01

Foos Right Time 135

CED BW +3 +1.0

WW +46

CED +14

BW -1.5

WW +47

YW SC +64 +1.18

MILK +23

YW +70

SC +.49

MILK +218

Foos Windy 916 Reg# 17060018 CED +6

BW +.8

YW SC +64 +1.31

WW +45 MILK +25

Reg# 17060029

Crook Mt Really Windy 8834 Reg# 16181785 CED +14

BW -2.4

YW SC +58 +1.15

WW +32 MILK +17

605-257-2391 • 605-645-9569 12346 US Hwy 212, Nisland, SD 57762

foosangus@sdplains.com • foosangus.com

Gill Red Angus

"You Buy We Bid” Bull Sale

Tuesday, February 17, 2015

1:00 P.M. (MT) • AT THE RANCH • TIMBER LAKE, SD

SELLING 235 HEAD

235 BULLS - 120 COMING TWO YEAR OLD BULLS - 115 YEARLING BULLS

You buy our bulls, we bid on your calves!

Gill Red Angus HC 64 Box 146 Timber Lake, SD 57656

www.gillredangus.com

Larry Gill • 605.865.3288 Brent Gill • 605.848.3722 Bryan Gill • 701.730.0134

Follow Gill Red Angus bigredgenetics@hotmail.com on Facebook!

10754594R Mount Rushmore Angus C=1 M=1 Y=1 OtherScott Dirk, 1SD21

10748050R Millar Angus C=1 M=1 Y=1 OtherDianna Palmer, 1SD01

10754497R Curt Miller Angus C=1 M=1 Y=1 OtherScott Dirk, 1SD21

SAV Resource 1441

100 SONS SELL!

SAV Harvestor 0338

112 th Production Sale

Saturday

• February 14, 2015 • 10 am at the ranch

SELLING 500 REGISTERED ANGUS BULLS & 200 FEMALES • FREE NATIONWIDE DELIVERY ON BULLS •

100 SONS SELL!

SAV Intensity 4263 SAV Pioneer 7301

SAV Rejoice 4183

BW 92• 205 Wt. 1017

BW 81 • 205 Wt. 910

SAV Priority 7283

He sells! A proud representation of the first offering by International from a dam by Rito 9969. He is the kind that will enhance profitability and make a lasting contribution.

SAV Index 4042 SAV Angus Valley 1867

One of over 100 direct sons of Resource who sell. He combines superior structure and quality with the natural muscle shape, performance, style and traditional Angus breed character. His Pathfinder dam by Right Time is a maternal sister to Predominant and records a weaning ratio of 107 on 4 calves.

SAV Ground Breaker 4239

BW 90 • 205 Wt. 1051

BW 86 • 205 Wt. 1037

10754620R Schaff Angus Valley C=1 M=1 Y=1 OtherScott Dirk, 1SD21 SAV Birthstone 8258

He sells! This powerhouse son of International from a dam who is a flush sister to Rito 9969 takes honors as the highest indexing bull of his calfcrop.

He will add pounds and profit to every calf he sires.

SAV Infinity 4145 SAV Registry 2831

BW 82 • 205 Wt. 1030

One of over 100 direct sons of Harvestor who sell! He is extra long, thick, heavy muscled with tons of performance and will sire market-topping feeder calves. His Brand Name dam is out of a Pathfinder full sister to the dam of Resource.

SAV Instinct 4258 BW 82 • 205 Wt. 983

SAV Hesston 2217

He sells! This phenomenal International son combines modest birth, length, performance and docility with a sterling pedigree and the arithmetic of a herd-improver. His Rito 7075 dam is out of the same Pathfinder dam as SAV Angus Valley 1867.

SAV International 2020

The 2015 SAV Sale features large AI sire groups and a volume selection of seedstock affordable to the cowman.

SAV bulls have earned a reputation for adding thickness, volume, muscle and real-world fleshing ability, while leaving moderate, beautiful-uddered, productive females. They are the kind ranchers demand and search for — adding pounds to your calfcrop, maternal strength to your cowherd and dollars to your bottomline.

He sells! This International son possesses length, muscle, massive volume and true performance with the look of a real breeding bull. His heavy milking Rito 7075 dam was produced from two generations of Emblynette Pathfinders.

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

40th Annual Bull & Female Sale This may be the opportunity your cowherd needs to find more profit.

Bieber Roosevelt W384

Our bull offering is deeper than ever!

10754442R Bieber Red Angus C=1 M=1 Y=1 OtherScott Dirk, 1SD21

Bieber Rollin Deep Y118

Bieber Rouse Samurai X22

Beckton Epic R397

Andras Fusion R236

Bieber Hard Drive Y120

View our auction and bid online at DVAuction.com

Schuler Endurance 2101Z

Paringa Iron Ore E27 Free service -- NO buyer premium

1976

40th ANNUAL SPRING SALE

2015

速 LSF RAB Exclusive 2793Z

Bieber Stormer Z433

www.BieberRedAngus.com

“Cow herd known for outstanding maternal traits” Annual Bull Sale March 25, 2015 3 PM (CST) at the Ranch Selling 135 yearling bulls and 40 yearling heifers Sinclair Fortunate Son #16648841 Fortunate Son continues to sire some of the very top calves here along with the sons of him that we have used. The bulls have as much muscle expression as you will nd. His daughters are long fronted, good uddered and as rst calf heifers, weaned our heaviest bull calf and also the heaviest heifer calf. An exceptional sire whose progeny impress all who see them.

McCumber Fortunate 213 #17265901

EPD’s B:+1.4, WW:+56, M:+27, YW:+97, Marb:+.42, REA:+.44 Bwt: 83, 205 wt:772/111, 365 wt:1458/115 and scanned a 17.8 adj ribeye. 213 is sired

by Fortunate Son and out of a Miss Wix 5139 of McCumber who is by 24J. 213 sons are long bodied, wide based and full of muscle.

His daughters are some of the nicest here at McCumber. First sons sell March 25, 2015.

Owned with Circle V Ranch and Wendal Livestock, ND

M

Representing 50 years of breeding Angus cattle

cCumber Angus Ranch is well known for cattle that have years of selection for maternal traits. They are moderate framed cattle that will work in a forage only based environment.

Selection for feminine, wide based and deep ribbed females with excellent udder qualities and superior fertility has been ongoing for generations. You will nd generations of like kind cattle in the McCumber pedigrees that will stamp and create a uniform calf crop for you. We 10754572R look forward to showing you our calf crop Angus and the Ranch dams that McCumber produce them.

McCumber C=1 M=1 Y=1 Other-Angus Ranch would like to be your seed stock Scott Dirk, 1SD21 source for superior bulls and females.

Large group of heifer bulls selling.

1000 mile free delivery Complete performance data Semen tested and guaranteed

Sinclair Entrepreneur 8R101 #16027234

Another outstanding sire group by Entrepreneur sells again this year. If you like them deep and thick with lots of muscle you will like this sire group. Owned with Sinclair Cattle Co., WY.

McCumber Rito Rolette 1108 #16976262

Rito Rolette sired another outstanding sire group again this year including McCumber Rito Rolette 4203, who was the 2nd heaviest bull at weaning, weighing 870 lbs, no creep feed. His dam is a 4X13 who produced our high selling bull in 2014. You will like the Rito Rolette sire group that sells March 25th. Owned with Pine Coulee Ranch and John Carrell, MT

These are examples of the quality and type of females that will sell on March 25,2015

McCumber Tremendous 2008 #17338585

Miss Wix 320 of McCumber

McCumber Fortunate 235 #17266021 Bwt: 75, 205 wt: 720/103, 365 wt: 1385/107.

B: -1.5, W: +46, M: +21, Yr: +91, Marb: +.23, REA: +.56 Sired by Forunate Son and out of a 4X13 dam.

235 is a calving ease bull whose sons averaged only 70 lbs at birth. An outstanding full brother sells on March 25th. Owned with Harris Ranch, ND.

B wt: 82, 205 wt:746/ET, 365 wt: 1300/ET B:-2.3 W:+49, M:+22, Yr: +68, Marb:+13, REA:+35. An ET son of OCC Tremendous 619T and out of Miss Wix 2022 of McCumber, a fantastic daughter of Right Time. An outstanding calving ease sire whose progeny recorded an average weaning ratio for bulls of 101 and heifers 102. 2008 will see heavy use at McCumber in the future. Owned with Redland Angus, WY.

8675 37th Ave, Rolette, ND 58366 Chuck: 701/246-3366 Matt: 701/246-3847 email: mccumber@utma.com Miss Wix 3146 of McCumber

www.mccumberangus.com

KUKUCHKA’S

Offering

120

New Sale Date! 27

Annual Production Sale

Thursday, april 2 • 2015

d Heea bred Angus

1:00 PM • Belle Fourche livestock

Pur

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the cowMan’s kind!

Bred to Survive and Excel in a Commercial Cowman’s Environment

Powerful Yearling Angus Bulls

These 70 powerful yearling bulls are the best of 140 head!

Industry leadIng sIres Include: t

sitz uPward 307r

10747681R t connealy thunder Bar 69 Ranch t Final answer 0035 C=1 M=1 Y=1 OtherDianna Palmer, 1SD01

Fancy Commercial Replacement Heifers

These heifers are mates to the bulls selling and are ready for production!

Craig and Deb Kukuchka 18758 Bar 69 Ranch Lane Belle Fourche, SD 57717 Phone 605-892-2875 Email: bar69angus@gmail.com www.bar69angus.com

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Table of Contents THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015 - TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS

Photo by Bruce Ketchum

14 16

Meet the cover photographer Meet the writers

Questions & Answers Get to know some of the region’s premier heritage producers and newer seedstock breeders

76

DeBruycker Charolais

By Laura Nelson A common goal with uncommon results

84

Eichacker Simmentals

By Randy Tramp Second generation breeder offers something for everyone

92

Jindra Angus

By Nicole Michaels Operation builds on Scotch Cap genetics

22 Barstow Angus 100 Medalen Angus 26 Strommen Angus

By Jan Swan Wood 30 Schmidt Cattle Co. Charolais

Fertility and longevity are always in 34 Hassebrook Charolais Farm demand 38 Thorstensen Gelbvieh 108 Pederson’s Broken Heart 42 Rippe Gelbvieh Red Angus Ranch 44 Rausch Herefords

By Heather Smith Thomas 46 Sleepy Hollow Farm South Dakota family raises foundation Herefords bulls and fast horses 50 Milk Creek Reds Red Angus 116 Murray Farms Lowline 54 Twedt Red Angus Angus

By Nicole Michaels 58 3C Christensen Ranch Wyoming producer crosses lowlines Simmental with full size Angus cattle 62 Windy Creek Cattle Co. Simmental

People In Agriculture Breeder features – The stories behind some of the area’s premier breeders

68

Beckton Stock Farm Red Angus

By Heather Hamilton-Maude The foundation of the Red Angus breed

Cowdogs – It takes practice to train and produce good dogs

122 Susan Nelson Border Collies

By Amanda Radke

Slow and steady, that’s the key

130 Tammy’s Cowdogs

By Nicole Michaels Dogs are good hands, entertaining blog subjects on cattle woman’s ranch

140 Dockter’s Border Collies

By Colette “Koko” Gjermundson Ranchwife learns how useful a dog can be, then trains some of the best

146

5\R Stockdogs

152

Tim Naasz Border Collies

By Nicole Michaels Raising cattle guards

By Amanda Radke The dogs make good hands

Health & Reproduction Keeping them healthy is key to the bottom line

166 Non–Infectious Causes Of Pregnancy Loss

By Heather Smith Thomas Why does that happen?

172

Do These Ears Make My Face Look Big?

By Heather Hamilton-Maude Preventing frozen ears in newborn calves

178

Boot Camp For Heifers

By Maria Tussing, Assistant Editor

Prepare heifers early for life as a cow

186 How Does He Stack Up?

By Heather Hamilton-Maude Using EPDs to compare sires across breeds

Cover photo by nikole morgan

THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • 11

Tues., February 17, 2015 1:00 p.m. Thomas Ranch Sale Facility 16 M. EAST OF ONIDA, SD

Selling: Bar JZ Chrome 428B ET. Trust x Request

BD 3/14 EPDs: B 3.3 W 53 Y 90 M 30 RE .67 MB .12

50 17

POLLED HEREFORD BULLS

Bar JZ Paladin 447B. SYES Paladin x Justice

DP. PB. BD 3/17. EPDs: B 2.4 W 50 Y 87 M 20 RE .46 MB -.03

Homo Polled

BRED 3-YR-OLD POLLED HEREFORD COWS (A COMPLETE DISPERSION)

10 20 60

Bar JZ Temptation 497B. Titus Temptation x Ransom

10754837R Bar JZ Ranches C=1 M=1 Y=1 OtherBRED POLLED Chris Effling, 1SD03 HEREFORD HEIFERS

Bar JZ Home Brew 425B. Homegrown x Worldwide

BD 3/13. EPDs: B -1.9 W 46 Y 69 M 22 RE .51 MB .11

PB. BD 3/24. EPDs: B -0.1 W 45 Y 84 M 23 RE .61 MB -.02

OPEN POLLED HEREFORD 2014 HEIFERS

LIMOUSIN AND LIMFLEX BULLS

Many bulls DNA tested homozygous polled.

Bar JZ Triumph 546B. Trust x World Class

BD 4/2. EPDs: B 3.7 W 62 Y 105 M 29 RE .77 MB .11

Bar JZ Optimum 412B. LVLS Optimizer x Justice

DP. 53% LimFlex. BD 3/11. EPDs: B -2.2 W 45 Y 91 M 27 RE -.09 MB .21

Bar JZ Ranches

Don/Peg/Seth Zilverberg Holabird, SD 605/852-2966 www.barjz.com

ONLINE CATALOG AND VIDEO OF SALE BULLS AT WWW.BARJZ.COM

SERVing the livestock industry for five decades 1501 5TH AVE., SUITE 101 BELLE FOURCHE, SD 57717

1-877-347-9100 · (605) 723-7001 877-347-9126 (FAX)

SUBSCRIPTIONS:

1-877-347-9100 Publisher: SABRINA “BREE” POPPE Cell (605) 639-0356 · Office (877) 347-9104 spoppe@tsln-fre.com Editor: CARRIE STADHEIM cstadheim@tsln-fre.com Assistant Editor: MARIA TUSSING mtussing@tsln-fre.com Graphic Designer: CAMILLE YAX LIVESTOCK MARKETING DEPARTMENT Field Service & Ringmen Department Director: West River ND-SD-WestNE SCOTT DIRK: (605) 380-6024 – (877) 347-0111 sdirk@tsln-fre.com Central & Southern SD DAN PIROUTEK: (605) 544-3316 dpiroutek@tsln-fre.com East River ND-SD-EastNE CHRIS EFFLING: (605) 769-0142 In-house Advertising Sales for NE & Livestock Marketing Department Coordinator: Carissa Lee: (877) 347-9114 clee@tsln-fre.com Special Projects Coordinator & Account Manager: DIANNA PALMER: SD–N. of I-90 West of the River (605) 423-6045 · (877) 347-9112 dpalmer@tsln-fre.com Account Manager: SUSAN CABLE: SD–S. of I-90 Rosebud East Territory (605) 840-1986 · (888) 648-4449 scable@tsln-fre.com Major Accounts Manager SARAH SWENSON: Wyoming & Montana (303) 710-9254 · (855)370-0539 sswenson@tsln-fre.com Classifieds: classifieds@tsln-fre.com MAINLINE: (877) 347-9122 Copyright. All rights reserved.

Errors:

The Tri-State Livestock News & Farm & Rancher Exchange shall be responsible for errors or omission in connection with an advertisement only to the extent of the space covered by the error.

Opinions stated in letters or signed columns do not necessarily reflect the official opinion of Tri-State News.

Technology & Tools

Feed & Forage

Useful tools simplify the day and the operation

Using the right stuff makes a difference

196

Derrick Dukart grazing philosophy

Drones, drones on the range

By Jennifer Garreau How can they help a cowman?

200

Select–a-bull

By Heather Hamilton-Maude New tools available to help with 2015 sire selection

284

By Colette “Koko” Gjermundson Real world research in grazing cover crops

292

Benefits and drawbacks of native species v. introduced forage

Targeting livestock health

By Heather Smith Thomas Which one, where and when? Those are the questions to ask.

By Heather Hamilton-Maude Shooting out sickness

Jerry Doan year-round grazing

208 216

For the record

By Maria Tussing, Assistant Editor

Three cattlemens’ apps, reviewed by those that use them

Marketing & Management It’s all about the end product

222

What do you say

Build a common vision as a team to keep the ranch in the family

By Nicole Michals

228

Private property, public decisions

By Heather Smith Thomas A look at how local producers are affected by the Endangered Species Act

238

Balancing sales &

social online

By Maria Tussing, Assistant Editor

How today’s cattlemen use digital

outreach to communicate with customers

250

What time is it?

By Carrie Stadheim, Editor

Three producers discuss the criteria for selecting the best sale day

301

By Colette “Koko” Gjermundson Winter grazing to improve the bottom line on the Black Leg Ranch

Events, Opinions, Recipes 309

Ag events: Upcoming Sales And Shows Across The Region

314

315

317

Be prepared

By Doug Theel Farm Credit Services of America

Put option: keeps floor under market without creating a ceiling

By Kyle Grauman XL Commodities

Preparing and planning

By Wendel Elliot Pastor in the Pasture

319

What’s for dinner

327

Advertiser index

Good food and great cattle keep

your customers coming back for seconds

260

Ranch Horses

By Jan Swan Wood

The miles make the horse

276

Bigger cattle meat demand

By Nicole Michaels

Larger animals with better dressing percentage help make up for smaller herd size

THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • 13

Cover Artist

About The Cover Artist nikole morgan Nikole Morgan is a working ranch wife and mother from Walden, Colorado. She enjoys photographing everything that “the west” represents, from cowboys and ranching to the wild outdoors and all of the scenery in between.

Nikole enjoys working outside and helps with ranchwork whenever possible, often finding great photos amid the daily grind.

“I never leave the house without my camera, even while riding,” she said.

14 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

Taking ranch photos isn’t exotic; it is more of an opportunity to chronicle her family’s daily life. “I simply photograph what we do everyday, plus a little fun on the outside,” she said.

Please check out www.wildoutwestphotography.com and Facebook for more from Wild Out West Photography.

10753628R Bridger Steel C=1 M=1 Y=1 OtherCarissa Lee, 1SD08

About our Writers meet the winter cattle journal contributors

Carrie Stadheim - Editor

Carrie Stadheim and her husband raise cattle, sheep and kids on the western North Dakota-South Dakota border. Now the editor of Tri-State Livestock News, Carrie previously served as the Executive Director of the South Dakota Stockgrowers Association and freelanced for a number of livestock publications including Range, Hereford America and the Angus Journal.

Maria Tussing Assistant Editor

Before coming aboard with Tri-State Livestock News in April, Maria worked in marketing at Prairie Berry Winery and did freelance writing for ag publications. She grew up on a commercial cow-calf ranch in western Nebraska, and now lives with her three kids in western South Dakota.

Jennifer Garreau

Jennifer Garreau is a freelance journalist from Lodgepole, South Dakota, where she lives and works on a commercial cattle ranch, farm and feedlot. Her articles have appeared in local, regional and national publications. Educated in animal science and ag journalism, agriculture has been her lifelong passion. Visit her blog at mtranchgirl. wordpress.com.

Colette “Koko” Gjermundson Heather Hamilton-Maude

Writer and photographer Heather HamiltonMaude is a fifth generation rancher raised in northern Niobrara County on a cattle and sheep ranch. Today, she and husband Charles own a cowcalf, small grain/forage and farrow to finish hog operation 35 miles southeast of Rapid City, South Dakota on the Cheyenne River.

16 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

Colette “Koko” Gjermundson is a wife, mother and North Dakota freelance writer. Her work with the Tri-State Livestock News began in college, using a Brother memory typewriter and mailed film, which publication employees wound and developed in-house. (But she’s really not that old.) She has essays published in anthologies Woven on the Wind and Crazy Woman Creek.

Premier Performance Sale BAKER HEREFORD RANCH

AMDAHL ANGUS

2 GREAT HERDS COME TOGETHER!

SELLING 125 BULLS

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 2015 • 1:00PM SELLING 50 HEREFORD BULLS YEARLING & FALL

SELLING 75 ANGUS BULLS

AT THE RANCH RAPID CITY, SD

80 COMMERICAL ANGUS BRED HEFIERS (CALVE MARCH 20, 14 DAYS)

60% OF BULLS SUITABLE FOR HEIFERS KB L1 Domino 456 B ET Sire: CL1 Domino 2121 Z BW 92# 205 wt 831# BW 3.0 WW 55 YW 90 Milk 35 M&G 63 Marb .18 RE .19

KB L1 Domino 413 B Sire: HH Advance 1038Y ET BW 92# 205 wt 814# BW 7.3 WW 56 YW 92 Milk 28 M&G 56 Marb .06 RE .26

KB L1 Domino 3187 A (Fall Bull) Sire: KB L1 Domino 454 P BW 85# 205 wt 805# BW 3.2 WW 43 YW 72 Milk 31 M&G 53 Marb .08 RE .09

SIRES REPRESENTED

Amdahl Command 510 Sire: Bushs Command 710 BW 92# 205 wt 819# BW 3.6 WW 58 YW 92 Milk 22 Marb. .40 RE .22 $B 75

KB L1 Domino 454 P 10756381R KBL1 Domino 0102 X Baker Hereford KB L1 Domino 121 Ranch Y C=1 M=11038 Y=1YOtherHH Advance ET Dianna Palmer, HH Advance 2036 Z1SD01 ET HH Advance 9027 W CL 1 Domino 2121 Z CL 1 Domino 2215 Z ET

Amdahl Block Party 413 Sire: CB Block Party 156

SIRES REPRESENTED

BW 75# 205 wt 723# BW 2.2 WW 65 YW 101 Milk 28 Marb. .41 RE .57 $B 81

Mytty In Focus Bush’s Command CB Block Party 156 GAR Prophet Bush’s Sure Reward Amdahl’s MVP 040 Conneally Confidence Conneally Consensus Conneally Danny Regis OCC Homer Final Answer

P.O. Box 2769 Rapid City, SD 57709 Jim 605-923-2925 • Cell 605-381-9519 HEREFORD RANCH Jeff 605-923-5632 • Cell 605-381-2444 1946-2015 — 69 years of www.bakerherefords.com dedication to beef improvement! jkbaker@rap.midco.net

Amdahl Prophet 434 Sire: GAR Prophet

BW 65# 205 wt 815# BW 0.4 WW 63 YW 112 Milk 31 Marb .99 RE .62 $B 95

MDAHL

NGUS

21747 COYOTE LN. PIEDMONT, SD 57769 WWW.AmdahlAngus.COM timamdahl@yahoo.com

TIM & MARCIA, TJ & JD AMDAHL TIM 605-929-3717 OR JD 605-999-6487

10754658R Deep Creek Angus C=1 M=1 Y=1 OtherScott Dirk, 1SD21

About our Writers meet the winter cattle journal contributors Laura Nelson

Laura Nelson lives and writes in the wind-swept shadows of the Crazy Mountains in Big Timber, Mont. A Nebraska farm girl by birth, Wyoming westerner at heart and Montana adventurer by choice, Laura is a freelance journalist with a passion for agriculture, the cattle business, running, great books, youth ministries, photography and open spaces.

Nicole Michaels Amanda Radke

Amanda Radke is a freelance writer, rancher, motivational speaker and author of the children’s book, “Levi’s Lost Calf.” She raises Limousin and Maine Anjou cattle with her husband Tyler and daughter Scarlet on their ranch near Mitchell, S.D.

Heather Smith Thomas

I am relatively new to livestock but not to writing. I worked for daily newspapers in North Carolina in my 20s and 30s and was educated at Stanford where I studied English. Now 51, I live on dirt roads in Wyoming where I keep a small herd of goats and unruly poems. I am a native of the San Francisco bay area and my memories of California farm country include pumpkin patches and harvesting Christmas trees.

Heather Smith Thomas grew up on a ranch near Salmon, Idaho, graduated from University of Puget Sound (Tacoma, Washington) in 1966, and has written more than 11,000 stories and articles for livestock and equine publications. She and her husband Lynn Thomas have been raising beef cattle and horses since 1967.

Heather has published 22 books, most of them about horses and cattle. She also wrote BEYOND THE FLAMES: A FAMILY TOUCHED BY FIRE. Her latest book, HORSE TALES: TRUE STORIES FROM AN IDAHO RANCH was published October 2014.

Jan Swan Wood

Jan was raised on a ranch east of Newell, South Dakota. All she ever wanted to do was work on ranches and cowboy, so after leaving home, she furthered her post-graduate education in cattle and horses on ranches in South Dakota, New Mexico, Nebraska and Wyoming.

She and her husband have one son and two grandsons, and run some cows on their place east of Newell. Jan is a freelance journalist, columnist, photographer, humorist, cowboy artist, and a cartoonist with three books published under the Outtagrass Cattle Company name.

Randy Tramp

Randy Tramp is a freelance writer, He and his wife Kim are parents of 11 children (8 adopted) and four grandchildren.

Randy served in the Navy for eight years and spent time in Africa. He worked at a federal prison for 12 years and served as a children’s pastor for 12 years. He also writes blogs, children’s short stories and fiction novels.

THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • 19

20 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

Beef Breeds

Q&A

“Tomorrow is the most important thing in life. Comes into us at midnight very clean.

It's perfect when it arrives and it puts itself in our hands. It hopes we've learnt something from yesterday." - John Wayne

THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • 21

Courtesy photo

Barstow

Front-Patty, Wylie and Neri, back- Wyatt and wife, Amanda, and Austin.

Angus Neri and Patty Barstow Springview, Nebraska

22 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

Heritage Breeder

Q&A

Barstow Angus }}How long have you been breeding Angus cattle?

We purchased our first registered Angus heifers from Neri’s father in 1988.

}}What makes that breed your favorite?

The Angus cattle do more things “right” than any other breed.

}}What advice have you received that has been helpful to you?

Take calculated risks and try different things but don’t chase trends.

Dad told me you can down scale cattle much faster than you can rebuild them. In other words, poor breeding decisions will have longterm negative effects.

}}What advice would you give to someone wanting to get started in

your business?

Get involved in your local and state associations. Be a student of the industry by talking to respected breeders and educate yourself on current issues in the beef business.

}}What do you believe is the most positive thing in the cattle business

right now?

The shortage of numbers has created a rising market and a positive attitude for all involved. The consumer’s acceptance that purchasing quality beef provides the best source of protein.

THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • 23

Courtesy Photo

Barstow Queen W16, dam of Barstow Cash.

Barstow Angus }}What is the cattle industry's biggest challenge?

Titan Stock & Flatbeds

Keeping the consumer informed on the nutritional facts about beef as the most reliable, high quality and tasty source of protein. }}Please share a favorite memory of raising and/or selling bulls.

Wilson

Without a doubt our best memory from our sales was in 2012 when we sold a one-third interest in Barstow Cash for $108,000. Also, the many friendships we’ve made that extend far beyond the sale ring. }}And for fun….what is your favorite breakfast?

Logan

Easy…steak and eggs!

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24 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

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Angus Aaron, Sheyna, Cassidy, Cooper & Clint Fort Rice, North Dakota

New Breeder

26 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

Q&A

Strommen Angus }} How long have you been breeding Angus cattle?

}}What advice have you received that has been helpful to you?

We bought our first registered Angus cattle in 2001. My grandfather, Ernest Strommen, started raising Angus in 1942 and we continued that tradition with the last three head he bred and raised.

I’ve received a lot of helpful advice through the years, but two things really stick out. The first was from long-time Angus breeder Clarence Van Dyke of Montana. He likely doesn’t remember it, but he told me once, “If you select genetics with the mother cow in mind the bulls will come.”

}}What makes that breed your favorite?

The females-plain and simple. We strongly select for maternal function. Our cows must breed early, have good feet, legs and udders. We sell to mainly cow-calf producers who make their living with their cows. We take our job as Angus seedstock producers very seriously and travel many miles and do extensive research to find what works and what doesn’t. We believe the Angus cow, with her ability to survive and thrive with minimal supplement in our Northern Plains environment and her ability to bring in a big calf that will provide premiums on the rail, is the bovine best suited for the job.

Another memorable piece of advice came from Monte Howrey of South Dakota. Monte told us when we were first starting out to either own cows and lease a ranch or own the ranch and lease the cattle. “It is hard to get ahead when you are making payments on both the land and the cattle.”

}} What advice would you give to someone wanting to get started in

your business?

Find some mentors and take every advantage to learn from them, don’t be afraid to go out on a limb and get involved. Sheyna and I have

THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • 27

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Strommen Angus both participated in programs sponsored by the Angus Foundation, I have served as a delegate for the American Angus Association Annual Meeting, and have served two terms on the North Dakota Angus Association board of directors. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Anytime cattlemen gather together there are opportunities to learn.

}}What do you believe is the most positive thing in the cattle business

right now?

The information and technology available to producers at all levels of the industry is a very positive thing. We are at the tip of the iceberg and what we may know now will pale in comparison to what we will learn in the next 10 years. The one thing we cannot forget is that with every technological advance that comes along, the cow still has to have the basic phenotypic traits to cover country, breed on time, have the smarts and mothering ability to do it on her own, all the while dealing with what mother nature has dealt us.

}}What is the cattle industry’s biggest challenge?

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We can speak from experience - it is hard to get going, and even harder now. Young producers can make a go of it if they are creative when they need to be and can capitalize on opportunities when they arise.

Farm roundand baleencourage carriers will change the way yo As fellow cattlemen, we have toKing support these young and stacking bales. You’ll not only save time and mon men and women. carriers are designed to maintain the integrity of the even on bales that have been left on the field through }}Please share a favorite memory raising bulls. stringsof will remainand/or intact,selling from the field to the stack.

I took a trip in the summer of 2012 to Sheridan, Wyoming, to watch some of our bull customers’ calves sell and a good friend of mine, Jack Reich, rode along. We visited about many things as we drove from North Dakota to Wyoming, including Angus cattle, kids and good horses. A few short months later, we lost Jack and his son in a car acPickup arms Graphite Beams cident. I enjoyed being around Jack.Coated He was a mentor of mine.

I sometimes wonder if our kids are picking up on the things we’re trying to teach. One of my happiest days happened in the AI pasture a couple of summers ago. Our 7-year-old son rode our 14-year-old stud through the big pasture to bring cows back to the AI pens. As he brought a couple cows to the gate, our 8-year-old daughter spotted › Up to sixteen 4' wide bales › Optional and correctly identified one of the cows as “hers” before they got to the gate.

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28 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

bal

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THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • 29

Schmidt Cattle Co. Charolais Randy, Marj, Aaron and Kyle Gordon, Nebraska

30 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

Heritage Breeder

Q&A

Schmidt Cattle Co. Charolais }}How long have you been breeding Charolais cattle?

My dad fed cattle his whole life and decided in the early sixties there had to be better cattle to feed than were available at that time.

After some research he started crossbreeding Hereford cows with Charolais bulls in 1962. After that short experiment he purchased 25 registered Charolais cows in 1967 and registered his first heifers in 1968. We will calve 250 registered Charolais cows this coming spring.

I joined the operation in 1974 after graduating from the University of Wyoming in 1972 and working as a commodity broker in Denver. We started selling bulls privately in the early seventies, had our first auc-

tion in 1989 and sold 30 bulls. We will have our 27th auction Wednesday March 25, 2015, and sell 80 bulls.

}}What makes that breed your favorite?

I have always believed weight and yield were crucial factors for profitability in the feedlot and Charolais cross cattle fill that need.

The ability to gain fast, be more efficient and grade are huge factors when feeding cattle. Not only do Char cross cattle perform exceptionally well in the feed lot but will also give the rancher more pounds to

THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • 31

promote our product is critical in maintaining consumer confidence. As beef tonnage increases, these factors will be very important to keep demand high and exports booming.

}}Please share a favorite memory of raising

and/or selling bulls.

sell at weaning time at premium prices. The Charolais breed is very well positioned for the future.

}}What advice have you received that has

been helpful to you?

My Grandad told a story about going to the bank in the thirties. His cattle were worthless, his feed was all gone and so was his money.

The banker asked him, “What are you going to do?” His reply was, “I’m going to stay right in the buggy if you will stay with me.” Things aren’t always easy but that is good advice if you want to succeed.

}}What advice would you give to someone

wanting to get started in your business?

}}What do you believe is the most positive

thing in the cattle business right now?

Another positive aspect is the quality of the cattle produced today compared to only ten years ago. The cattle we get for the feedlot are just better than they were in the past. They have more eye appeal, they are much calmer and easier to handle. They perform better and grade better at desired mature weights. That is a big compliment to the industry as a whole.

We have taken seriously the challenge of breeding for better cows, better carcass quality, and are handling our livestock in a much better manner and it is paying off for the industry.

Another enjoyable thing is watching these calves grow through the winter, spring and early summer and then sorting and loading them.

I have been there to sort and load every load for over 30 years. I enjoy it immensely and it also helps keep focused on the type of cattle we need to be raising. Most of the cattle are sold on a grid.

}}And for fun….what is your favorite break-

fast?

Hash browns, two eggs over easy, bacon, one slice wheat toast. I roll dice to see who pays for breakfast every morning with my buddy Butch Shadbolt. I never win cause he is a lyin,’ cheatin’ SOB, but boy do we have fun.

}}What is the industry’s biggest challenge?

One major challenge has been, and continues to be, maintaining a positive public perception of the quality of beef. Prices continue to rise and consumer demand continues to be very strong. Although the producers’ goal of providing high quality beef at an affordable price continues, both justified and unjustified factors can very easily alter public perception domestically and at an international level.

Continuing to be diligent in how we raise and

32 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

Courtesy photo.

Keeping excellent records and performance data are essential to improve the quality of your cattle. Keeping not only your own records but keeping all cows and progeny registered with the breed association is imperative for breed improvement. Don’t be afraid to cull a poor one. Sell it to the packing plant not someone else. Treat all of your customers with absolute integrity. Be good to your cows and they will be good to you.

Without a doubt the most positive thing in the cattle business now is price. When I go into the lobby at the salebarn everyone is looking at the check they have earned. I have heard more than one say, “I can’t believe how big this check is.” That being said, we are at very low livestock numbers, consumer demand has remained high and beef is in good standing in the U.S. and exports are excellent.

In addition to being in the Charolais bull business we also feed cattle. The most enjoyable experience I have is going to fall calf sales and buying calves from our bull buyers and friends. I look forward to it every year and greatly appreciate receiving notes thanking me for the quality of our bulls and for bidding on calves. It is very gratifying to see the quality of cattle produced. The tri-state area, without a doubt produces the finest cattle in the world.

Aaron, Marj, Randy and Kyle Schmidt.

Pursuing A New Horizon

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One of the greatest and most notable Angus sires in the breed’s history passed away at 14 years of age. Some of his most notable achievements, among many, were ranking in the top 10 list for Angus registrations every year since 2009, having 31,443 progeny registered not to mention the commercial herds he has had such a huge impact on, and producing over a half million straws of semen in his lifetime!

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Hassebrook Charolais farm Bruce, Tracy and Blake Hassebrook Genoa, Nebraska

34 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

New Breeder

Q&A Hassebrook

CHAROLAIS farm }}How long have you been breeding Charolais cattle?

}}What advice have you received that has been helpful to you?

We bought our first trailer load of purebred Charolais cows in 2009, and we added another 30 head of cows to the herd in 2011. Since then, we have continued to grow by buying a few elite cows each year and retaining a lot of our own heifers back.

Some of the best advice I have gotten has come from three guys that I have a lot of respect for. The funny thing is, they are in different aspects of the cattle business and are all different ages, but their point is always the same. The first is my 81-year-old grandfather who gave me the opportunity to come back and farm and learn how to feed out cattle. Although, he probably thought I was crazy when I started to buy cows. Our good friend Dave Hebbert in Hyannis, Nebraska, has helped us out more than anyone when it comes buying cows, selling bulls, and meeting other Charolais breeders who have been around awhile. Finally, Dr. Jeremy Martin from Great Plains Livestock Consulting has helped out tremendously with the formulation of diets for bulls, cows, replacement heifers, and feed yard cattle, and he also runs his own cowherd. All three of these men have provided great advice, support and encouragement, especially on those bad days. They have helped me remember it will be okay no matter if you stayed up all night watching a cow that has twins that you lose, if your favorite cow comes up open in the fall, or if you have a feedlot steer lying out in the pen with his feet running up the hill and no heart beat. There will certainly be bad days when you’re involved in this business, but the good days, like loading a pen of fat cattle on the truck, getting the cows and calves out to grass or working with my family, make it all worthwhile.

}}What makes that breed your favorite?

My favorite aspect of our Charolais cattle is that they are different than what a lot of the neighbors have. When they are on grass or corn stalks by a busy road, people notice. The other thing that I really enjoy about Charolais cattle is the people we work with within the breed. We have met so many outstanding people in the Charolais breed, especially as a young breeder. There are some more established, reputation producers that are more than willing to help out. Whether it was giving us a deal on semen to AI with or selling a few cows for a commercial cow price, we have been very fortunate.

THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • 35

Hassebrook

CHAROLAIS farm }}What advice would you give to someone

}}Please share a favorite memory of raising

The advice I would give to someone looking to get started in the Charolais business is to take your time. Take your time to build your herd they way you want without forgetting that your are trying to sell these cattle later on. So they need to be able to go and work for someone else. You need to be able to like the cattle you are trying to sell. I have learned that just because there are bull sales and cow sales close to home, doesn’t mean those cattle are suited for what I am trying to accomplish.

Another bit of advice I would give that is just as important is not to be scared to get your hands dirty. I believe that hard work pays off.

Even when there are times it may not seem like it but in the end you will be happy with what you have accomplished.

A favorite memory that I have of raising and selling Charolais cattle is having the champion Charolais bull at the Nebraska Cattlemen’s Classic in 2012. This happened to be the first year we took bulls there. I am just lucky to have family support when it comes to leaving to go to shows or sales. I could not do it without the support of my wife, even though there are days when we would both rather have me in the house at a decent hour instead of staying out late washing bulls or watching cows calve. She is also more than willing to get up in the middle of the night and help get a cow in and then get back up and go to work in the morning like it was no big deal. I am really lucky when it comes to her help. A special thanks also has to go out to my parents and brothers who either calve cows out and do

wanting to get started in your business?

and/or selling bulls.

chores while I am gone or take care of pairs when I have them down at their house for a couple of months.

}}And for fun….what is your favorite break-

fast?

I guess I am a little unusual when it comes to breakfast. Most days, breakfast consists of Pop Tarts and diet Dr. Pepper, but I am a pretty big fan of biscuits and gravy.

}}What do you believe is the most positive

thing in the cattle business right now?

The most positive thing in the cattle business right now is the demand. Prices are good and I think that the demand for Charolais cattle will remain strong. I truly believe that heterosis is important. Whether you cross Charolais bulls on solid black cows, black baldies, or red cows, the offspring will outperform come weaning time or when you harvest them as fed cattle. With the prices as high as they are, I believe that producers will want as much weight as they can get and what better way than adding Charolais bulls to their bull lineup?

}}What is the cattle industry’s biggest chal-

lenge?

In my opinion the biggest challenge for the cattle industry currently is filling the demand for beef. The world population is constantly growing and it is going to take more pounds of product to keep everyone satisfied. Especially when other countries are deciding beef is a good choice for protein.

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36 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

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Thorstensen Gelbvieh

Heritage Breeder

Vaughn, Wendy, Gina, Kendra, Jana & Kara Thorstensen Selby, South Dakota 38 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

Q&A

Thorstensen Gelbvieh }}How long have you been breeding Gelbvieh cattle?

My family started breeding Gelbvieh cattle in about 1974. We were searching for a breed to crossbreed with and after trying about six other breeds we fell in love with the Gelbvieh cross. The disposition, fertility and mothering ability were the most important traits, but the extra pounds at weaning was an added bonus. We slowly purchased some purebred and fullblood Gelbvieh cows and bred up our commercial herd. We started having annual production sales in 1981. The first cows I actually purchased myself were in 1979 and I worked all summer on the farm to pay for those two heifers. I have progeny dating back to those two cows yet today. My Dad, Ken, who passed away in 2010, started the Gelbvieh seedstock business.

In 1992 we added Angus cattle to our ranch as an alternative breed for our customers to use in crossbreeding. We have also used a lot of

Red Angus in creating Balancer or composite cattle. The British breeds accent the Gelbvieh cattle perfectly with their strengths coupled with Gelbvieh. I really feel the Balancer cattle are what our industry needs.

The Gelbvieh cattle are easier to handle, have more milk, better fertility and better foot and leg structure than their British counterparts.

These strengths, when used together, make an animal that we have found to be the best suited for our environment.

}}What advice have you received that has been helpful to you?

When I first started I had an older breeder tell me, “Just worry about making good females, the bulls will come.” I think that has been great advice as the cowherd is the most important piece of the puzzle. If I buy a bull I need to know that he is out of a good cow and I’m sure all my customers are the same. Udder quality, disposition and fleshing

THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • 39

Thorstensen Gelbvieh ability are all things I have sought to keep near the top of my priorities as I breed seedstock. }}What advice would you give to someone

wanting to get started in your business?

The advice would probably come more as a warning as the seedstock business is very competitive and requires a lot of capital. I don’t know if I would start in today’s environment, but that being said I do think there are opportunities. One thing I would give for

advice would be to buy quality seedstock especially on the bull side. Too many people key on purchasing good cows when they first start (which is important) and then try and AI and turn out just “a bull” to clean up. I think (I know) that the cleanup bull will pay the bills in the long run if he is good and in many cases over the years our natural service sired calves have outsold our AI sired calves as we have consistently tried to keep one of the best herd bull batteries in the business.

}}What do you believe is the most positive

thing in the cattle business right now?

The most positive thing in the cattle industry right now is low cattle numbers which is also the most concerning for those of us in the seedstock business, but we are now entering a time of expansion and I think we should have a couple of good years as we get our national cowherd rebuilt.

}}What is the cattle industry’s biggest chal-

lenge?

Brian and DeDee (Thorstensen) Begeman and sons John (17), Trevor (15), Wade (13), Brenden (10).

Begeman--Vaughn’s brother-in-law--and his family joined the operation in 1998.

40 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

The biggest challenge to the industry is to remain competitive with the other protein sources such as poultry and pork. This is an area we have been very passionate about.

We put in a Growsafe feed monitoring unit about four years ago and have records on over 1,500 of our own seedstock now. It provides us with complete consumption and feed efficiency data on all the cattle that go through the system. The pork industry has made feed efficiency improvements in the neighborhood of 50 percent and poultry nearly 200 percent and yet we still have the same feed-to-gain ratio’s as our grandfathers had. This is an area that must be improved upon if we are to remain competitive, with feedstuffs becoming more costly. This isn’t just the corn used to finish the steers; we can breed the cattle to require less hay to maintain themselves through the winter and possibly pasture 15-20 percent more in the summer. This is the area the beef cattle industry needs to improve.

Brian Begeman, Ken (Vaughn's father who built up the business and passed away in 2010) and Vaughn.

}}Please share a favorite memory of raising

and/or selling bulls.

We are not unlike anyone else in that compliments or encouragement go a long way. I know right after my Dad died I had a new customer come and tell me how excited he was about his calves, they were 75 pounds heavier than the previous year – he gave those new bulls all the credit. I don’t know if they deserved it but the excitement of seeing someone so excited about their purchase and the direction their herd is going is very rewarding and in fact the reason most of us are in the business. Selling a quality bull or heifer is important and the foundation of our program, but meeting and working with the best cattlemen and stewards of our environment on the planet is the most rewarding part of what we do. We have made many lifelong friends because of our seedstock business and the friends and customers I would not trade for anything are the reason we are still in the business..

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THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • 41

Dustin and Karla Rippe, Duane and Brenda Rippe

Rippe Gelbvieh

Dustin, Karla, Duane and Brenda Rippe Hubell, Nebraska 42 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

New Breeder

Q&A Courtesy photo.

The Rippe ranch’s main herdsire, Watchman.

Rippe GELBVIEH

}}What advice would you give to someone wanting to get started in

your business?

Dustin Rippe

The same thing I wrote above. Also don’t forget your purpose is to develop bulls for the commercial cattlemen.

}}How long have you been breeding Gelbvieh cattle?

}}What do you believe is the most positive thing in the cattle business

My dad, Duane, and I started our seedstock herd in 1993. We purchased some registered Angus females and began to AI them along with our commercial herd on a breed up program. }}What makes that breed your favorite?

To start, I am big proponent of crossbreeding. The reason we started with the Gelbvieh breed is they were a new, up and coming breed that crossed with Angus very well. We now call them Balancers. The reason we chose Gelbvieh is two-fold. Maternally, they excel in pounds of calf weaned per cow exposed, which MARC has documented over and over again. To me that encompasses what a good female is - she weans a big calf and breeds back. From a cattle feeding standpoint, they gain well, convert well, and give you more market flexibility from a marketing standpoint.

}}What advice have you received that has been helpful to you?

Focus on what your customers want now and will want in the future.

Be fair and honest in all of your business dealings. Make sure it is big enough to count, which means if it is a good idea on 10 head do it on a larger scale.

right now?

Besides the obvious answer in price, it has to be the people. The cattle business is full of individuals that work their tail off and have great integrity. }}What is the cattle industry’s biggest challenge?

Passing operations to the next generation is the industry’s biggest challenge. No matter what business you are in this is a challenge. However, the capital requirements of raising cattle make this an obvious choice for me. }}Please share a favorite memory of raising and/or selling bulls.

My favorite memory will be building a business with my dad that I grew up in. Today, I am also involved in other business ventures, but this one I take the most pride in. A lot of fathers and sons see each other for the holidays. Our relationship is much different as we talk several times a day, argue about different decisions, but it is very rewarding. }} And for fun….what is your favorite breakfast?

Anything I don’t have to make.

THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • 43

Rausch Herefords Vern Rausch and Family Hoven, South Dakota

44 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

Heritage Breeder

Q&A

Photo courtesy American Hereford Association.

Rausch Herefords, Hoven, S.D., was presented the American Hereford Association Heritage Award for registering more than 10,000 head Oct. 31 in Kansas City, Mo. Pictured seated (l to r) are: Vicki, Sharon and Mary Rausch, Hoven, S.D. Back row (l to r) are: Craig Huffhines, AHA executive vice president, Kansas City, Mo.; Nick, Jerry, Vern, Harlan and Burt Rausch, Hoven, S.D.; Eric Walker, 2015 AHA president, Morrison, Tenn.; and Steve Lambert, 2014 AHA president, Oroville, Calif.

Rausch HEREFORDS }}What do you believe is the most positive thing in the cattle business }}How long have you been breeding Hereford cattle?

Since 1946.

}}What makes that breed your favorite?

Temperament, fertility, winter hardy, eating qualities.

}}What advice have you received that has been helpful to you?

Don’t pay too much attention to extreme fad swings in the cattle business. Keep costs under control.

}}What advice would you give to someone wanting to get started in

your business?

Look for efficient cattle that are manageable.

right now?

Supply is low while demand is strong. Feed supplies are plentiful and feed costs are lower.

}}What is the cattle industry’s biggest challenge?

Politics, weather and regulations.

}}Please share a favorite memory of raising and/or selling bulls.

The great people in the industry. This is the only industry where a hand shake goes the farthest. People are always friendly.

}}And for fun….what is your favorite breakfast?

Oatmeal

THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • 45

Champion Hereford heifer at 2014 Sioux Empire Farm Show Sale.

Courtesy photo.

Sleepy Hollow Farm

Br/?

Mark, Jeanne, Trevor and Tate Johnson Centerville, South Dakota

46 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

New Breeder

Q&A

Sleepy Hollow FARM

}}How long have you been breeding Hereford (and Angus) cattle?

Although growing up around and always being involved with purebred livestock, we made several work-related moves after graduating from SDSU and first getting married, so we consider the beginning of Sleepy Hollow Farm to be once we settled down at our current location north of Centerville, South Dakota, in 2004.

“You can about call the wrong number and sell a true set of blackbaldy females!” I guess that’s always stuck with me and we couldn’t agree more!

}}What advice have you received that has been helpful to you?

On March 14, 2015, we look forward to participating with four other area breeders to have our first annual bull sale, “The I-29 Bull Run”

Select for balanced traits, avoid chasing what might be a fad, don’t accept poor animals with a great pedigree, and never gamble on structure!

}}What makes Herefords one of your favorites?

}}What advice would you give someone just starting in the business?

We really like the commercial acceptability of both the Hereford and Angus breeds and how they complement each other. Once at a feeder cattle sale, I spoke with a veteran order buyer who told me (Mark),

The same advice we give ourselves regularly around here: it’s like pushing a snowball, it’s a lot of work, but everything you put into something small helps result in something big!

THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • 47

Sleepy Hollow FARM }}What do you believe is the most positive thing in the cattle business

right now?

The record profits all of the production sectors of the cattle business are enjoying right now show that there is a strong demand for what we are raising at a rising price level.

}}What is the cattle industry’s biggest challenge?

There are still a lot of entry barriers, in terms of available land, capital, etc, for young people wanting to be in the industry. Being able to keep future generations of cattlemen coming back to the farm and ranch will be imperative.

}}Please share a favorite memory of raising and/or selling bulls.

In our minds there is nothing more enjoyable than hearing a success story from a customer, knowing that a bull you produced went on to help a customer achieve their goals is very rewarding!

}}And for fun….what is your favorite breakfast?

The Paul Bunyan Pancake: Two pancakes with cheese and bacon inbetween, covered in butter and maple syrup!

48 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

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Milk Creek Reds Red Angus Bruce and Tena Ketchum Baker, Montana

50 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

Heritage Breeder

Q&A

Milk Creek Reds Red Angus }}How long have you been breeding Red Angus cattle?

We purchased our first Red Angus cows in 1985. At that time we had enough money to buy two cows and that is what we started with. We formed a partnership with a former FFA State officer in 1986 with his Red Angus cow herd and purchased the majority of the cows in 1989 when we launched out on our own with Milk Creek Reds.

}}What makes that breed your favorite?

The Red Angus breed has many attributes that make it worth looking at but the versatility of the breed is what stands out to me. To have a great female that can function in a broad variety of environments is commendable but to be able to also produce feeder calves that will

compete in the feedyards and on the rail is the added bonus. As a whole Red Angus are a breed that is very easy to be around and most people have come to know that the dispositions on the Red Angus cattle make working cattle fun.

}}What advice have you received that has been helpful to you?

The advice that has been the most helpful when we were getting started was that this breed of cattle is more about the people than the cattle.

As you get to know the people and their operations and what has made them successful you gain valuable knowledge that helps your operation but the best part of it is you gain friendships that last a lifetime.

THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • 51

Milk Creek Reds Red Angus }}What advice would you give to someone wanting to get started in

your business?

Many people who enter into the purebred business don’t have a goal in mind as to what direction they want to take their herd and thus their genetic selection is not focused on producing the type of cattle that will meet their goals. My advice is to determine who will be the customer of the type of cattle that they want to produce. If there is enough market share for that type of cattle, and their environment will sustain that type of animal they would need to develop a marketing plan to build a customer base that would purchase the type of cattle that they want to raise. After that I would advise them to keep focused on breeding the best cattle for their goal and not deviate from it.

}}What do you believe is the most positive thing in the cattle busi-

ness right now?

One of the most positive things that I see in the cattle business is that there are still young producers desiring to take on the challenges of becoming beef providers.

}}What is the cattle industry’s biggest challenge?

With today’s cattle prices the biggest challenge is for our industry not to forget the quality criteria that it takes to make a good cow. As demand for females increases it is easy to sell anything that can produce a calf because it is profitable but our challenge is to not lose track of what it takes to make the type of cow that is sustainable and profitable in a down market.

}}Please share a favorite memory of raising and/or selling bulls.

My favorite memory in this business is watching our commercial customers, cattle sell at Red Angus influenced sales and topping the market in the feeder calf sales, replacement heifer sales and bred female sales. Most of the memories that we cherish are those spending time with our customers just getting to know them, their families and their operations.

}}And for fun….what is your favorite breakfast?

Breakfast is my favorite meal of the day and I like variety and probably not any one thing that is a favorite. Some that come to the top are biscuits and gravy, ham and cheese omelets, french toast or pancakes with fresh fruit, whipped cream, and maple syrup.

52 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

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Add Some design element for “new”

Twedt Red Angus

Sam, Emily, Nora and Brynn Twedt McHenry, North Dakota 54 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

New Breeder

Q&A

Twedt Red Angus }}How long have you been breeding Red Angus cattle?

}}What advice have you received that has been helpful to you?

It was a dream of mine as a little boy to raise registered Red Angus cattle. In the fall of 2009 this dream came true. I purchased my neighbor Dick Harding’s entire registered Red Angus herd. This was the beginning of Twedt Red Angus.

The advice given to me that I have hung onto in the registered business is that you need to treat your customers right.

}}What advice would you give to someone wanting to get started in

your business?

}}What makes that breed your favorite?

Red Angus was an up and coming breed and I wanted to be a part of it.

It is a breed that is now known for its disposition and maternal traits.

The heifer calves are in high demand all over the country.

Sounds simple but honesty and integrity are key to bringing customers back.

THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • 55

Twedt Red Angus }}What do you believe is the most positive thing in the cattle busi-

}}Please share a favorite memory of raising and/or selling bulls.

The most positive things in the cattle business right now are the record prices but at the same time I think it’s also our biggest challenge.

One of my favorite memories is when a bull customer came to me the next year after buying Twedt Red Angus bulls and said, “We love your bulls.”

}}What is the cattle industry’s biggest challenge?

}}And for fun….what is your favorite breakfast?

High prices are also a challenge in a way. We need to make sure that the average American can still afford to eat beef.

My favorite breakfast would have to be an everything omelet.

ness right now?

56 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

10748806R Ma & Pa Angus C=1 M=1 Y=1 OtherSusan Cable, 1SD05

THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • 57

Left of bride & groom - Rick Dunsmore (holding son Chase), NaLani Dunsmore, NaLea Dunsmore (in front), bride and groom - Tyler and Cam Fagerhaug, right of bride and groom - John Christensen, Wyatt McKenney, Carly Christensen, Swayzee Christensen (in front).

add Some design element for “old” 3C Christensen Ranch Simmental John Christensen & Family Wessington, South Dakota

58 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

Heritage Breeder

Q&A

3C Christensen Ranch }}How long have you been breeding Simmental cattle?

We sold our first Simmental bull in 1972.

}}What advice have you received that has been helpful to you?

Advice about structure from Professor Jan Bonsma, Pretoria, South Africa has been helpful guidance to have in mind while sorting cattle through the years.

}}What makes that breed your favorite?

As we developed our herd years ago, I noticed that a Sim x Angus cow would last two to three years longer than her straightbred parents.

Simmentals originated in the Simme Valley of Switzerland and have spread to many areas of the world. This migration has led to Simmental cattle being developed in a broad environment by a diverse number of people with different goals. So Simmental cattle are very adaptable.

In the last four decades, Simmental have been Americanized and have become very well suited for this area. And they complement Angus so well.

}}What advice would you give to someone wanting to get started in

your business?

1. Know your bull customers and do not sell them any problems.

2. Your cattle need a balance of all traits, but maternal calving ease is the highest priority. If cattle are below breed average maternal calving, they will attrition out of the herd, and if they are gone from the herd, the other traits don’t matter.

THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • 59

3C Christensen Ranch }}What do you believe is the most positive thing in the cattle business

right now?

It is so positive to see how strong the demand is for beef when the supply is low.

}}What is the cattle industry’s biggest challenge?

The challenge in the beef industry is always the same - to be efficient.

This will be difficult. Just in South Dakota alone, 1.8 million acres of grassland have been converted to crop land since 2008. Land values have really squeezed the cow numbers.

}}Please share a favorite memory of raising and/or selling bulls.

So many good memories of the people I have met and the friends made, it’s hard to choose only one. Seeing customers do well with our genetics tops the list. Just this week, I met a bull customer on the road, grinning from ear to ear, and he tells of just selling a pen of finished cattle that graded nearly 100 percent choice and brought $15 premium over the highest market in history.

THAT’S a good memory.

}}And for fun….what is your favorite breakfast?

I like so many foods. Most mornings I have a mix of oatmeal, ground flax, grapenuts, honey and some kind of fruit with milk. If I have it on hand cold pizza is a favorite, or bacon and eggs with toast or ebelskivers.

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60 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

Add Some design element for “new”

Windy Creek Simmental Cattle CoMPANY Jeremy, Bethany, Cash, Emerson Lehrman Spencer, South Dakota

62 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

New Breeder

Q&A

Windy Creek CATTLE CO. }}How long have you been breeding Simmental cattle?

}}What advice have you received that has been helpful to you?

Raising Simmental Cattle Since 2006

When it comes to advice I always go back to what Steve Eichacker told me many years ago. “It’s all about customer service,” and at Windy Creek Cattle Company continue to live out that advice every day.

}}What makes that breed your favorite?

I have a strong passion for the Simmental breed for the benefits it brings to the beef industry. Simmental influenced cattle provide a balance of traits all the way from high growth and efficiency to some of the most sought after momma cows in the commercial business.

}}What advice would you give to someone wanting to get started in

your business?

Staying on top of the ever-changing genetics is one strong bits of advice I would give to other breeders starting out. Things change at a rapid pace and there is no time to take a year off. You have to take the good times with the bad.

THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • 63

Windy Creek CATTLE CO. }} What is the cattle industry's biggest challenge?

I feel that a couple of the biggest challenges facing the industry today are the continuing decline of the cattle numbers and the competition for feedstuffs. }} Please share a favorite memory of raising and/or selling bulls.

It is hard to pick just one memory or enjoyable moment. The excitement of the new calf crop each spring and the growing interest from my children about our operation rank right at the top.

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Auctioneer 712-898-9972 Dustin Carter

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64 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

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66 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

People in

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THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • 67

Breeder Feature

Beckton Stock Farms

RED ANGUS The foundation of the Red Angus breed.

By HEATHER HAMILTON-MAUDE

When Waldo Forbes passed away in 1956 at a young age, just two years after starting the Red Angus breed association, people encouraged his wife Sal to sell the family ranch and move away to raise her seven kids.

She chose to stay, and not only ran the ranch, but expanded it and grew the Red Angus breed into a viable, performance-based breed. Photo courtesy Beckton Stock Farms.

H

omesteaded in 1878 and purchased by the Forbes family in 1898, Beckton Stock Farms has played a critical historical and modern day role in forming and shaping not only the Red Angus breed, but American beef production as a whole. Today the ranch is home to the largest straight Red Angus herd in the country, and is based in the foothills of the Bighorn Mountains near Sheridan, Wyoming.

“George Beck was a young, ambitious son of a Kentucky Senator who was a surveyor and engineer by training. He was working with the railroad across southeastern Montana in the 1870s, and was also looking for land to homestead. It was suggested he come to the east slope of the Bighorns, and the story as he told it was that he rode over the hill from the north, saw this valley, and said, ‘That’s it, that’s where I want to be,’”

said Cam Forbes, current family manager of Beckton Stock Farm.

There were only a handful of settlers in all of Sheridan County when Beck filed his homestead in 1878. Seeing the future, Beck filed for the first water rights in the county in 1880, and put in a sophisticated irrigation system to maximize production. He raised wheat and brought perhaps the first sheep into the area, despite area ranchers protesting the decision.

“In 1898 Buffalo Bill Cody, who was a good friend, convinced him to move to what is now Cody, Wyoming, where the two of them laid out and built the town. Buffalo Bill was more the face and financing side, while Beck was the engineer. At that point he sold this place to my grandfather and two of my great uncles,” said Cam.

68 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

The Forbes family originally alternated between running the operation in person and as absentee owners. They continued raising sheep, and added Hereford cattle over time.

“In the 1930s my father Waldo Forbes decided he wanted to take the ranch over.

At the time it was held by different family members, and he consolidated it through either buying out or being gifted each family member’s interest. He became the person who put Beckton Stock Farms together as a cattle ranch.”

Waldo was very much interested in livestock genetics and animal breeding, and in the 1940s had the idea of creating a pure breed of cattle from the red hided calves born from two registered Black Angus parents. He began work with a number of leading registered Black Angus producers from

Beckton Stock Farms currently markets around 250 bulls and 50-80 yearling heifers in their annual spring sale at the ranch, just outside Sheridan, Wyoming. Bulls are backed by the number one herd in the Red Angus breed for stayability, calving ease, low maintenance energy requirements and total rate of growth, making them a popular choice for ranchers across the United States.

Photo courtesy Beckton Stock Farms.

The Formation of a New Breed When Aberdeen Black Angus cattle

true breed, based on the fact that a red

ple who were doing the same thing, and

were originally formed in the British

individual from two black parents could

the seven of them created the Red An-

Isles, they were the result of selecting

never have a black calf, due to the sci-

gus Association of America,” said Cam.

among different cattle for a black hided

ence of recessively heritable traits, one

individual, with the goal of creating a

of which is hair color.

breed. When Angus cattle arrived in

At the time of its formation, the Red Angus Association knew it wanted to

Because they were considered culls,

be a performance testing breed, and

Waldo had his pick of any red animals

required an individual ID and weight

he wanted, and worked with a number

on every registered calf at weaning. This

“In the early days of this century,

of registered Black Angus producers to

was a radical idea in a day and age when

when purebred Angus cattle had a red

select the best red calves from within

livestock selection was based entirely on

calf, it was a cull animal. They could not

their herds.

visual appraisal.

America, there were still individuals carrying a red gene.

be registered, and essentially were eaten or sold,” explained Cam Forbes.

“He was able to get a good set of cattle put together in the 1940s, after World

Cam’s father Waldo had the idea of

War II, and he built a herd from them. In

taking these animals and creating a

1954 he got together with six other peoTHE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • 69

across the country, selecting the best of their red calves. The producers were happy to help Waldo as red calves could not be registered in their breed, and had to be sold or culled.

ica, and Waldo was named the organization’s first president. Among their original requirements were individual identification and weaning weight on all calves, starting the idea of performance testing in cattle.

“By the 1950s he had built a herd of what would become Red Angus cattle. He was also very interested in crossbreeding, and used the red bulls on his commercial Hereford cows. The F1 baldies were a wonderful cross, as anyone who has had them will tell you,” said Cam.

“About two years after forming the Red Angus Association, my father died young.

My mother, Sal Forbes, had seven kids, from 1 year old to their early teens. Everyone told her to sell the ranch, leave and raise her kids.

She didn’t. She kept on with it, and is really the person who built the Red Angus breed through the 1950s and 1960s, at which time it really started growing,” said Cam.

In 1954, Waldo and six other individuals formed the Red Angus Association of Amer-

Capping Birthweights, Mature Weights Starting in the 1960s, Beckton chose to not use bulls with a birth weight of more than 90 pounds.

Setting such a cap was somewhat unique at the time, considering choosing cattle based on hip height was just starting to gain in popularity.

“The result of that decision is that with the exception of a few outliers, our birth weights are pri-

April 29, 2015

marily in the 70s and 80s for cows and the 60s for heifers.

“The second aspect of capping birth weight is that you also cap mature weight, and our cows are 1,100-1,200 pounds. We have still increased our weaning and yearling weights, but it has taken more years of selection to do so. There are trade offs,” said Cam Forbes.

Today, that decision is appreciated by Beckton customers, who either want to maintain a moderate cowherd, or who have tried other breeding options and now wish to reduce their overall cow size.

“We believe it is more economical to have moderate cows at a size that matches their environment. We don’t supplement with

70 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

anything but hay in the winter, and haven’t for years. We tried several of what I consider to be expensive sugars with protein added in, and realized we didn’t have to. Those supplements are just a lot of money, which may not make a difference for a registered breeder, but in the commercial business there often isn’t the money to invest,” said Cam. Smaller mature cow sizes also mean more cows can be run per acre, resulting in more calves per acre. Considering most ranch operating costs are related to the ranch’s size and not to how many

In 1959, Sal decided to have a production sale in September. It was comprised of roughly 30-40 head of bulls and seedstock females. Over time the sale grew, and Sal added a very popular field day the day before, which included an entire program of events.

public what the Red Angus breed was. At the time, they were almost always in the “other breeds” show. She stopped showing as Red Angus breed recognition grew and she saw the show ring move away from traits she wanted in her cowherd.

“She would usually get a well-known animal scientist to speak, which was always a highlight. We served barbecue for lunch and dinner and people would come from all over, usually several hundred to over a thousand,” said Cam.

In 1969, Sal handed the reins over to Cam’s older brother Spike, who ran it until the mid-1980s, at which point Cam took over as manager. Sal continued to help with marketing for a while, but primarily stepped out of her decision-making role, graciously, “letting us make our mistakes as we went,” according to Cam.

Sal also showed cattle at Denver and Fort Worth until the 1970s, primarily to show the

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“With market price scale, you

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THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • 71

In the late 1970s, Cam’s brother started taking the bulls to a Nebraska feedlot to be developed, a decision that changed the scope of the operation going forward.

“In northern Wyoming no one grows feed, and our soil is clay, creating a less-thanideal situation to raise bulls in. We did some research, and found a place to try. We use some of our own bulls for natural service, and the first year we brought them back we could not believe their increased libido, a primary benefit of improved nutrition, and it turned out very well for us,” said Cam.

Another advantage to feeding in Nebraska from the beginning was the market for those animals that weren’t kept as bulls.

Between 50 and 60 percent of calves were culled in the 1980s, and being five miles from the closest packer enabled the Forbes family to start obtaining individual carcass data on their steers.

In the 1980s, Beckton also tried a spring sale, and over time it showed enough success that by 1984 they hosted their last fall sale.

“Since then we have always had a spring sale here at the ranch. Today we market

A second sale was also held in Nebraska for a number of years for their Nebraska customers, but the difficulty of running two sales with equal bulls led to it being phased out.

Since then Beckton has worked with three other well-known Red Angus breeders.

“We combined sales with Buffalo Creek Red Angus for a number of years, and that worked well until they moved their breeding season to later in the spring. Joe and Connie Mushrush of Mushrush Angus in east central Kansas invited us to come down.

They were selling fewer than 100 bulls at the time, and wanted to a get a few more numbers. They have since grown their own numbers so we have dropped back what we send there,” said Cam.

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about 250 bulls and 50-80 bred yearling heifers. We currently don’t do an internet sale – we have tried it but as of this spring were still going with a straight live sale.

Our bulls have sold very well without being on the internet. Our customers are 80 to 90 percent repeat buyers, and typically between a quarter to a third of the bulls will sell sight-unseen,” explained Cam.

Feedmill/Warehouse: 605-223-2427 Owners Reg Nelsen and Steve Magdanz

72 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

Two years ago Beckton began working with Glen, Cody and Chad Halfmann of Halfmann Red Angus in west-central Texas, which hosts an annual fall sale. With 50 to 75 of their own bulls to offer, Hoffmans approached Beckton about adding to their numbers, and the idea has worked out well for both.

“They sell in October, so we are able to take our younger calves and hold them over for that sale. Plus, many of our southern customers don’t breed until the winter months due to heat, and were holding our bulls for several months before turning them out. Now, they can purchase a bull in the time of year that fits their breeding season,” said Cam. Beckton cows are bred to be low maintenance, moderate, long-lasting, productive females. They calve in the foothills of the Bighorn Mountains, and many spend each summer at 7,000-8,000 feet on mountain

Photo courtesy Beckton Stock Farms.

The Beckton breeding philosophy “A big thing we do differently than the majority of seedstock producers is we use random, natural mating almost exclusively,” said Cam. “We calve close to 1,000 cows bred to 30-40 sires annually, and we can get large enough progeny groups from each sire to compare and see which sire we use that is the best. This is much easier and more effective with large numbers – just like any research experiment, 1,000 subjects is better than 10, so our herd size does aid us in this,” explained Cam. From the data such a breeding program generates, the best calves can be selected based on performance as opposed to pedigree selection or the stacking of pedigrees in an effort to improve one or a few traits.

“The example I like to use is the thoroughbred race horse world, where pedigree mating has been done for decades to generate the best thoroughbred horses ever. But, Kentucky Derby times have barely increased over the years, and the record is how old? Then, look at the human population, where mating is entirely random, and virtually every sports record is broken within a few years,” said Cam.

Cam and Trish Forbes are preparing to host Beckton Stock Farms’ 70th bull sale in the spring of 2015. The Forbes family has ranched outside Sheridan, Wyoming since purchasing Beckton Stock Farms in 1898.

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18 Bred HeiferS

JBS Mr. Pace 010B

The one exception to this rule is a handful of half-sibling matings each year that are done in an effort to selftest for genetic defects.

“We take about 15 of our own yearling bulls from our various bloodlines each year, and breed them to our own yearling heifers. Each bull gets 20-25 heifers, but of that group four will be his half-sisters. The reason for doing that is to test for genetic defects. If animals are related, the probability of a genetic defect showing up is very high. In this way we have been able to avoid genetic defects in our herd,” said Cam.

Monday, FEBRUARY 9th

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40 years of raising Simmental cattle.

THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • 73

pasture. The only supplement they receive each winter is hay.

Cam said he can’t narrow down his favorite part of raising cattle.

“It’s the whole thing. The physical, intellectual, hands-on, and social components of ranching. I like growing grass, sorting and handling the cattle, putting up hay and looking at long sheets with tiny numbers to figure out what my best cows and bulls are.

It’s also years like this, where we enjoy seeing our customers smiling and hearing them

Photo courtesy Beckton Stock Farms.

“Our herd is about the overall traits. I feel maternal traits are very important, as are performance traits. We want moderate cattle – not a size three, but something that fits our environment. Our short grass, high altitude location results in cattle that will work over a wide range of environments. We’ve kept and utilized performance data since the 1950s, and have spent 50 years culling off the bottom end while watching the environment eliminate others,” said Cam.

talk about how much they got for their calves and yearlings, and even their cull cows.”

Looking to the future, he says they plan to continue breeding for balanced cattle that will work for their owners’ long-term visions.

Index issues “The Red Angus breed is coming out with indexes, which unfortunately I don’t fully agree with.

To create an index, people take multiple EPD numbers to create one number to tell you who your best individual is. The problem is that one number is created with a set of parameters and assumptions, which can change over time.

For example, if you’re measuring carcass traits, and take ribeye area versus marbling, they can rank those based on which is highest in the marketplace when making an index, but if everyone selects for that it will eventually lose its premium. Then the parameter really needs to be changed for that index to remain viable,” said Cam. For Cam, looking at the entire row of numbers, and seeing what is given up in one area to improve in another, is a better way to make selection decisions without losing sight of the trade-offs.

EPDs and indexes are an improvement over just weights and ratios, and are a useful component of selection today. But, they should never be sold as the cure-all in making selection decisions.

74 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

Petersek’s

Thursday, February 26, 2015 • 1:00 CST Selling 150 Yearling bulls 45 Coming Two’s (March and April born calves)

We will offer the pick of the 2014 heifer crop.

CED

BW

0

+1.9

WW

+60

M

YW

+26

+93

IMF

+.73

REA

+.62

Raven Gold Rush 144

$B

CED

$115.35

-6

Sire Connealy Gold Rush 026E MGS Hoover Dam • BD 1/17/14 • BW 88 • 205 wgt. 813/100 ET Dam’s NR 2/105

BW

+4.1

WW

+67

M

+23

YW

+102

IMF

+.67

REA

+.54

Raven Gold Rush 354

$B

$116.63

Sire Connealy Gold Rush 026E MGS SAV Pioneer • BD 1/23/14 • BW 81 • 205 wgt. 819/108 ET Dam’s NR 1/108

This Gold Rush son is one of the thickest bulls that we have ever raised.

His brother is Raven Powerball 53 that was a sale highlight last year that sold to Sitz Angus in MT. A true standout out of a great cow family.

354 is going to be a sale favorite for his shear power in his muscle type, eye appeal and docility. His dam is a nice uddered Pioneer heifer that did an excellent job on her first calf.

Dam of 604

CED

+4

BW

+1.6

WW

+69

M

+28

YW

+119

IMF

+.82

REA

+.56

Raven Ten X 604

$B

$120.98

Sire AAR Ten X 7008 SA • MGS BC Matrix 4132 B. Date: 1/26/14• BW 79 • 205 Wgt : 881/117 Dam’s NR 3/116 Pathfinder

CED

+2

BW

+2.6

WW

+63

M

+28

YW

+109

IMF

+.40

REA

+.56

Raven Superior 2034

$B

$85.88

Sire Sitz Superior 10971 MGS CRA Bextor • B. Date: 2/12/14 • BW 81 • 205 Wgt : 828/110 Dam’s NR 3/107

604 has been a standout since birth. His dam is a second generation pathfinder that we are flushing now. She is out of the Blackbird 315 cow that has been so great for us. He will be a sale favorite!!!!

2034 is out of our new sire Sitz Superior that probably has our most consistent sire group. He will be a rancher type bull along with his brothers, easy keeping with muscle and eye appeal along with excellent feet.

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Breeder Feature

DeBruycker

Charolais A common goal with uncommon results.

Raising cattle and kids on the Montana highline takes more than genetics.

By LAURA NELSON

P

atience. Respect. Love. That comes first. The cattle are next.

It’s the only way a family of seven siblings and in-laws, 26 grandchildren and five greatgrandchildren can survive and thrive in business together, Brett DeBruycker says.

And as the nation’s largest Charolais herd, the north-central Montana ranch carries not only a legacy of white cattle, but of family ties.

“I’d tell you we’re just a great big happy family all the time, but there are days,” Brett laughs. “Family operations can be difficult at times, and ours is no different. But we have a great love, respect, for one another, and at

the end of the day, we’re all trying to move in the same direction.”

Big family, big business While not all the sprawling DeBruycker family is directly tied to the core ranch, most are involved in the business in some way. It’s the legacy started by patriarch Lloyd and his wife, Jane, when they bought their first Charolais heifer in 1963.

When ranchers across the nation were experimenting with Continental imports in the 1960s and ’70s, Lloyd was at the forefront, gathering institutional knowledge on what each had to give in their rugged, high country near Dutton, Montana.

76 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

“He got a pretty good handle on what those different breeds had to offer, and he kept coming back to the Charolais as the breed that had all the important characteristics to us – growth, gainability, carcass quality, feed efficiency,” Brett says. “We grew up as a family believing in that breed.”

Today, while Lloyd and Jane are actively involved in the farm and ranch, it’s grown to also include Brett and his wife, Kay; brother Mark DeBruycker and his wife, Belva; sister Cathy Campbell and her husband, Joe, at the core, with other siblings, in-laws, cousins and more in the mix in varying capacities. Together, they market approximately 900 bulls each year – 550 at auction the first Saturday in April and

“They have to have a calf that gets up and grows on nothing more than his mother’s milk and the green grass, and he’s got to have that built into him,” Brett DeBruycker says. Their family runs about 2,200 Charolais mother cows in north-central Montana.

THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • 77

Breeder Feature

“There’s always another day. Some days – like when you’re calving in the middle of a winter that feels like it will never end – you might feel like it’s just not working. But you never give up and you move ahead.”

- Joe Campbell

300-350 private treaty – plus run a 2,200head herd of mother cows.

Working toward a common goal

Mark, Brett and Lloyd partner on feeder cattle and also run a yearling program, with the goal of buying back bull-customer calves and taking them to market. In all, they handle around 25,000 fat cattle each year. Different family members also run farm ground – primarily winter wheat, malted barley and hay crops – and the next generation is either well on their way to finding entry points into the family business, or they’re already there.

While the DeBruycker family works as a team, they run their businesses as individuals.

“That’s the challenge – they’re not making any more land, and they’re not making any more grass,” Brett’s brother-in-law, Joe Campbell says. “You just have to use everything you have to the best of your abilities.” For him, that means grazing cattle on wheat stubble in the fall. For his now-adult children, that means paying attention and acting quickly when leases or purchase options come up.

That may be unique for an operation of their size, but it’s the system Lloyd put in place when his children started showing an interest in coming back to the ranch, and it’s what they’ve carried on to the next generation.

“When the opportunity comes up, you don’t want to let it pass by, that’s for sure,” Joe says.

“We’re not a corporation, we’re all individuals. We own our own cows, equipment, everything, but we work together,” Brett explains. “We work cows together, group cows up to be more efficient, then we market together under DeBruycker Charolais.”

“At the end of the day, we each have our own work to do – it puts all our own responsibility into it,” Brett says. “That extra individual emphasis keeps us grounded.

But then when we’re working together, that helps us go for a greater goal, too.”

78 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

That structure helps them remain progressive in their cattle breeding and management decisions, too, Joe says.

“You get more than one input,” he says.

“Someone might like one thing this way, another likes it the other way – but if you keep doing back and forth, crisscrossing back and forth on the cattle end, we all end up on a pretty even line.”

Indeed, Brett says –uniformity throughout the multi-owner herd is the number one compliment they receive from bull customers.

“We all have the same goals in mind, the same genetics,” he says.

The DeBruycker ‘type’ That common cattle goal has been maintained using the different vantage points in the family and the cattle business.

While they know what they like to see in the pasture, from the feedlot, they see how genetics can impact that performance, too.

They have a stake in the game of how their

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Joe Campbell, Mark DeBruycker, Brett DeBruycker, Lloyd DeBruycker and herd manager Shawn McCracken gather during the family’s annual bull sale in April.

While the ranch is all about family, that doesn’t always mean direct genetic lineage: “He might not be blood, but he’s been with us long enough that he is. Shawn, our herd manager, is family, too,” Brett says.

bulls perform down the line, wherever they end up. Whether it’s the high desert of Nevada or the dense everglades of Florida, “they have to do their job in all extremes,” Brett says. Their progeny must do the same.

“They have to have a calf that gets up and grows on nothing more than his mother’s milk and the green grass, and he’s got to have that built into him,” Brett says. “Those same calves that are built for the rancher are also built for the feedlot.”

From the feedlot, they gather individual harvest data on purebred DeBruycker cull heifers to evaluate a sire’s performance in carcass quality. With DNA testing for parentage, it’s easy to monitor outliers in herd sires. While some of those technological advances over the years have been useful, they always go back to the phenotypical types the herd started with. “We focus on the cowherd, and try to make the cows as good as possible – good footed, good utters, deep bodies, barrel-shaped kind of cows,” Brett says.

“That’s where Lloyd started – on the female end – and he didn’t follow any trends,” Joe says. “We figure, if we have the cows, the right types of bulls will follow.”

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Breeder Feature

The DeBruycker family gathered in Billings, Montana, this February to celebrate Lloyd and Jane’s induction into the Montana Pro Rodeo Hall of Fame. They were recognized for having a Montana ranch that has contributed to the Montana western lifestyle. With seven children, 26 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren, the family – and the ranch – continues to grow.

The best part of a DeBruycker’s day They’ve followed Lloyd’s lead in more than cattle selections.

“You never give up; that’s probably the most important thing I’ve learned from him,” Joe says. “There’s always another day. Some days – like when you’re calving in the middle of a winter that feels like it

80 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

Brett DeBruycker and nephew Kesler Martin gather spring cattle on their ranch near Choteau, Montana.

“We live in a pretty nice area here in Montana,” Brett says. “But that beautiful country brings some big weather extremes. Those extremes force us to select cattle that can go and survive in almost any county.

Not just survive, but thrive.”

BLACK ANGUS YEARLING BULLS With pride and confidence we are selling registered yearling bulls.

We have raised registered Angus Cattle since 1976.

eaty Private Trual Sale Eq to ity Opportun ry bull e v e n bid o

Base Price

g

d

(Volume Discounts)

ALL BULLS IN THIS SALE HAVE BEEN ZOETIS HD 50K TESTED

Sale Starting

The new HD 50K for Angus provides MVP’s on the 16 traits using more than 50,000 DNA markers, providing the most reliable genomic preictions today.

February 14th 2015 Bulls can be seen at the farm from De Smet, SD – 8 miles west, 3 miles south on 425th Ave., ¼ mile west on 211th Street.

Selling Sons of leading Wilkinson Ranch Sires, and these A.I. Sires with carcass genetics and finishing ability a must.

Baldridge Waylon W34 - PA Safeguard - SAV Harvester 0338 • Bulls can be kept free at the ranch until May 1st • Pay when you pick up your bulls • Registration papers available on request • All bulls will be Semen Tested and Guaranteed for one breeding season

W

lon W 4

Quality doesn’t cost - it pays. Bulls fed on a growing ration, not a fat cattle ration.

Wilkinson Ranch Mark, Bill & Dan Wilkinson Mark: cell 203-0380 Bill: (605) 847-4102 or cell 203-0379 Dan: (605) 854-3525 or cell 203-0378 THANKS FOR YOUR BUSINESS

SD-SPAD1203121417

THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • 81

Breeder Feature will never end – you might feel like it’s just not working. But you never give up and you move ahead.”

As Joe and Cathy now watch their children starting their own white herds, Brett still savors having their four young daughters at home.

“That’s the best part of my day – it just makes me feel good to know I’m raising these girls on the ranch, to get to work with them, watch them grow up with that work ethic,” he smiles. While working among such a large family and sprawling business has its challenges, they agree, they wouldn’t have it any other way.

J

With three generations actively involved on the DeBruycker Charolais ranch, and a fourth getting their start, working together on the ranch through the generations is the number priority. “At the end of the day, we want to love our family,” Brett DeBruycker says. Cousins (from left) Dillon Campbell, a family friend, Cassidy DeBruycker, a family friend, and Samara DeBruycker are some of the next generation of leaders at the ranch.

auer Dependable Genetics 37th Annual Angus Bred Female & Bull Sale January 25, 2014 • 1:00 p.m.

At the Ranch - Hinton, Iowa

Featuring:

 73 Spring Bred Cows  82 Black, Red & Baldy Comm Bred Hfrs  25 Fall Cows Pairs  8 Fancy Yrlg Black & Blaze Face Hfrs  16 Spring Bred Heifers  58 Two Yr Old Black & Hybrid Simmi Bulls

Your Source for Forage Efficient, Elite Replacement Makers!

Jauer Dependable Genetics 31059 Juniper Ave. Hinton, IA 51024 www.jauerangus.com 82 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

“It takes some patience, and a respect for one another, and some maturation to learn that losing your cool doesn’t help anything,” he says. “Because no matter what happens, you’re family. You love each other. You respect each other. And you make decisions that benefit everyone.”

2015 BULL & FEMALE SALE March 16, 2015 at Baxter Angus Farm Lunch at Noon • Sale at 1 pm

Connealy Capitalist 0823 DOB: 1/28/13 • BW: 86 Adj 205: 900 lb. • Adj 365 YW: 1454.

EPDS: BW 1.9, WW 71, Milk 30, YW 124, Scrotal 1.08

10754845R Baxter Angus Farm C=1 M=1 Y=1 OtherChris Effling, 1SD03

Tested Semen anteed uar Fully G

2015 BULL SALE 10755126R Wagner Herefords C=1 M=1 Y=1 OtherChris Effling, 1SD03

THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • 83

Breeder Feature

Eichacker

Simmentals Second generation breeder offers purebred and hybrid bulls

By Randy Tramp

T

he Eichacker Simmental team raises cattle that work in their environment. This simple marketing plan has produced bulls that local cattlemen now demand.

Salem, South Dakota, cattleman Steve Eichacker said he and his crew have found success pasturing their cattle in the summer, then grazing corn stalks through the winter when they can. They provide supplement when the snow gets deep enough that the stalks aren’t readily accessible. “If it doesn’t snow a lot until the later part of December it would mean two less months of feed,” Steve said. “You can go through a lot of feed if there is a lot of snow.”

“We feel it is extremely important that you raise cattle that work for you and your environment.” He added, “You work with what is available to you.”

The fad in the 80s was “bigger is better.”

But that thinking didn’t work well at the farm because the Eichackers’ cows have to get out and work in the corn stalks during the winter months and consequently the bigger framed cows did not hold up as well as they would’ve liked. The Simmental breed now works well with the conditions, weather and environment of the farm. The goal of 800 pound weaning weights is to do it in a moderate, soggy, easy fleshing package.

The Eichackers’ popular SimAngus cattle combine the best of the English and Continental breed traits. Fertility, leanness and performance numbers make the bulls marketable. Steve said the cattle are also docile, adding another desirable trait.

Another factor that has played a large role in the expansion of Simmental and SimAngus genetics is the utilization of an artificial insemination program.

84 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

For the Eichackers, artificial insemination begins at the beginning of May, when the cows are AI’d for 40 days before the bulls go in. This is a process that can be labor intensive and time consuming, but the reward in terms of cattle quality is more than worth the effort.

Failure to detect cows that are in heat can result in economic loss and additional semen expense, so in recent years Steve began using various heat synchronization methods to tighten up the heat cycles.

This has increased the conception rate of the herd and also shortened up the calving time frame.

The Eichackers have also incorporated an extensive embryo transfer program.

They put in approximately 70 embryos per year. Cooperator herd managers take care of the ET cows and calves and then Eichacker then takes ownership of the calves in the fall after weaning.

WHAT RANCHERS READ

For all your marketing needs contact Tri State Livestock News, the region’s most highly read, weekly livestock publication. Every issue is full of information that pertains to the livestock industry and the Western way of life. Plus markets, industry news, event coverage and calendars and production sale reports. Tri State Livestock News can help you with catalogs, flyers and any other marketing needs you may have. Plus we offer top quality, professional ring men to help out on sale day.

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THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • 85

Breeder Feature

“Dad picked the Simmental breed and never looked back.”

- Steve Eichacker

When the AI’ing is done in the early summer, Steve’s son, Adam, switches gears to show cattle. This is where he and herdsman, Paul Grace, spend the majority of their free time for the next few months. Although 4-H county and state fairs are held at the end of the summer, Adam, Paul and Steve often travel long distances on any given weekend just to showcase their best heifers and steers to judges from all around the Midwest. They participate in many Simmental regional and national Shows.

The current objective of the operation is to maintain the Simmental cows at about a third of the herd as purebred Simmentals, a third as three-quarter bloods and a third as SimAngus. The Red Angus herd is mainly purebred with a few red SimAngus.

Located just outside of Salem, S.D., Eichacker Simmental is an operation that thrives not only on good values, but the hard work of family and friends. Along with husband and wife, Steve and Cathy, are their three children: Amanda, Nick, and Adam.

Steve’s brother, Greg, has been a tremendous addition to the farm in recent years, as well as his sister Bridgett, who moved back closer to Salem and is now more able to pitch in when needed.

But it’s not just a family farm. Herdsman, Paul Grace, with a knack for clipping and

86 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

s u g n A s e i r V e D Annual Production Sale

Thurs., April 16, 2015 Huron Continental Marketing, Huron, SD

Eichackers and their sale help enjoy a break the day after their 2014 sale.

fitting cattle, and full time employee Zac Heumiller round out the operation.

Steve’s father, the late Raphael Eichacker, started raising Simmental cattle in 1971 when Steve was only 10. He says that his father chose the breed because it had potential. “Dad picked the Simmental breed and never looked back,” Steve said.

After graduating from high school, Steve joined in the farming operation, and grew the herd to the sustainable 300 head of cows it is today. Roughly 250 are registered Simmental and SimAngus and 50 Red Angus.

Simmental cattle are a versatile breed of animals originating in the valley of the Simme River, in the Bernese Oberland of western Switzerland. The breed made its early appearance in America in the late 1800s. Breeder’s Gazette, published in Chicago in the late 1890s, made reference to “Simmenthal” cattle. These early reports did not capture the attention of the American cattlemen and the influence died away until the late 1960s, according to Oklahoma State University. The first purebred calf was born in 1968, derived from imported semen.

The American Simmental Association was only a couple of years old when Raphael Eichacker introduced the breed into his operation.

AAR Ten X 7008 SA

Selling 50 Bulls Hoover Dam

Ba Spion Kop 2045 GDAR CJD Wisdom 2743 GDAR Game Plan 0158 Craft Hoover Dam 820-133 H A R B Freedom 1196 30

Jeff DeVries

40545 213th St Cavour, SD 57324 (605) 352-8486 Cell: (605) 350-5807

Tanya DeVries

(605) 354-0526 (605) 352-5841 Email: devriesangus@santel.net

THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • 87

Breeder Feature

The annual bull sale is held the first Friday of every March. “We call it our ‘One Stop Bull Shop,’� Steve said. For this sale, the Eichackers team up with JK Angus, comprised of the Jeff Kapperman family.

The event offers Simmental, SimAngus, Angus and Red Angus bulls. It’s a great variety and selection all in one place and all in one day, Steve said, adding, “We have something for everyone.� In 2014, 86 Simmental and SimAngus yearling bulls averaged $5,820, which is up from previous years.

9*: 1DYLJDWRU UHJ

/-& &ROW = UHJ

88  • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

hereford Bulls From Churchill hereford Bulls From Churchill Churchill’s World There’s NoThiNg elseClass like iT! There’s Hereford NoThiNgBull else Salelike iT!

TUESDAY, JANUARY 27, 2015 AT THE RANCH

Churchill sensation 028X Churchill sensation Total Performance at its Very028X Best!

Cl1 Domino 955W Cl1 Domino 955W His First Sons are For Sale!

Churchill LHF Domino ET Total Performance at4141B its Very Best!

Semen for sale for commercial heifers.

BWSemen 3.7 WWfor 66 sale YW 101 34 for Milk commercial heifers.

Sired by CL1 Domino 955W

Churchill Manhattan 428B ET His First are For Sale!

955 is a Sons true curve bender!

BW 0.8 WW 62isYW 97 MILK 29 bender!

955 a true curve Sired by Churchill Sensation 028X

golden oak outcross 18U golden oak outcross 18U Incredible Sire3276A GroupET for Sale!

Churchill Advance

Crr helton 980 helton First Sons Sell!

ChurchillCrr Gamer 4167B ET980

Incredible Sire Group Sale! powerful, BW 3.1Stout, WW thick, 54 YWlong, 87 MILK 26 for sound!

Stout, thick, long, sound!

Sired by HH Advance 0132Xpowerful, ET

70 sale 70 For For sale

hereford Bulls hereford Bulls

First Sons Sell! stout!

Moderate, thick, BW 2.9 WW 57 YW 94deep, MILK 23 Moderate, thick, stout!

Sired by Game Changerdeep, Maternal Brother to Sensation

High quality bulls at rancher prices year after year.

This year they sell on January 27.

tt tt tt tt

• 18 Fall Born Long Yearlings 15 Excellent •Including 85 January & February YearlingsFall Yearlings 15 Excellent Fall Yearlings •Including 26Total Open Performance Commercial Hereford Bulls Heifers with Marbling!

Total Performance Bulls with Marbling!

is hard efficient, WeCowherd will winter bulls at noworking, cost and deliver to you in the spring.

Cowherd is hard working, efficient, and us productive.

Contact for a catalog. Go to www.churchillcattle.com productive. for aand good video of every bull.

Saleaisvideo live on of the internet at Go to our website to see www.cattleinmotion.com and live on TV Dishnetwork Go to bull our website every selling. to see a video of Channel on Superior every232bull selling. Productions.

We pay one-half the delivery cost anywhere.

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Make your next calf crop your best ever!

World Class Hereford Bulls Dale and Nancy Venhuizen 1862 YadonVenhuizen Rd Dale and Nancy Manhattan, MT Rd 59741 1862 Yadon dale@churchillcattle.com Manhattan, MT 59741 dale@churchillcattle.com 406-580-6421( cell)

406-580-6421((home) cell) 406-284-6421 406-284-6421 (home)

www.churchillcattle.com www.churchillcattle.com

35+ Yearling Bulls

These are moderate frame, calving ease, easy fleshing, efficient and high marbling bulls.

BULL SALE March 26, 2015 Belle Fourche Livestock

1RTR Bando Red Rocker 701

10 Registered Heifers (Semen Available)

Feddes Big Sky

Herd Builder % Top 17% Top 13% Top 20% Top 26%

RTR Red Rocker 701

Outstanding Heifer Retention

Reference Sires RTR Commitment X04 Beckton Halfman Hustler Brown Redemption

Union Center, SD

eleCtriC BranDing ironS ALL PRICES LISTED BELOW APPLY TO STANDARD 2”, 2.5”, 3”, 3.5”, OR 4” LETTERS OR FIGURES. 2” & 2.5” electric branders are made with a thin line 3/16” face, 3” and above with 3/8”.

800~828~2829 www.cammackranchsupply.com

Dakota Dart Gun

$425 Rifle Only

Allows medication of hard to handle animals or those in remote locations with ease.

Very accurate at 60 feet.

Starter Kit

$

555.90

Vern’s Loading Chute y

Onl hute

C

$2,840

(1) Loading Chute ............ $2,840 (15) 10’ Panels($122/ea)* ..... $1,830 (1) 4’ Walk thru gate ............ $157 Total $4,827 *substitute 12’ Panel ($135/ea) $5,022

Stainless Steel Branding Irons Custom-Made Figures $39

Bars & 1/4 Circles $29

Single letter or figure ............ $108.00* Two letters or figures............. $118.00* Three letters or figures .......... $128.00* We’ve got your brand, custom design...

NO PROBLEM!!! Call for Quotes!

Barbed Wire Red Brand 12.5 ga. $62.50 roll $61.75

each/pallet quantity

5 Bar $99

$115 - 10+

$5,195 WW Loading Chute • 2-7/8” pipe frame • 1/4” floor plate • Front swivel plate • Side truckers door • 16 ft. chute length • Full length catwalk

$

(36 rolls per pallet)

Sale $2,54900

1,040

Mineral Tubs Post Pounder Ranch Hand • Designed for Range Conditions • Encourages consistent consumption /Puller

each/pallet quantity

Loader Mounts 9” and 12” augers

6 Bar $119

$95 - 10+

$59.95 roll $59.00

Sale $2,67900

Common Sense Wire Winder $

ZA High Tensile 14 ga.

Rhino Digger

14061 E. Hwy 34 Sturgis, SD

E-Z Corral Continuous Fence 20’ Panel

(27 rolls per pallet)

Skid Steer plate 9” and 12” augers

605-490-1900 605-347-5119

Grid Master % Top 2% Top 3% Top 11% Top 17%

5,89500

T-Posts

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T-Posts .....0+200 ....200+ 5½’ ........ $4.39 .... $4.29 6’ ......... $4.85 .... $4.80 7’ ......... $5.65 .... $5.60

90 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

• Discourages over consumption • Contains a quality vitamin package All Season High Phos Convenient Size Mineral Tub Mineral Tub Easy to Handle 200 lb. tub 10 tubs per ton

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Breeder Feature

Jindra

ANGUS

Jindra Angus builds on Scotch Cap genetics

By nicole michaels

I

t’s fall and producer Nick Jindra is watering cattle grazing on cornstalks.

While he is not one to dominate the conversation, he speaks with authority on the Angus breed.

“I don’t believe there is one size fits all,” he says. “It takes being consistent to keep the consumer satisfied.”

Located in northeast Nebraska, near Clarkson, the Jindra herd is more than just rooted in the well-know Scotch Cap Angus genetics. It celebrates them.

In 1994 Jindra bought their first Scotch Cap females from Doug and Molly Hoff, producers Jindra bought out in 2006.

Heavy use of Hoff sires with artificial insemination and embryo transfer have accelerated the heavy profile, influenced as well by many great Angus programs.

This year Jindra’s top selling bull went for $43,000 at the 14th Annual Bull and Female sale in Creighton, Nebraska.

Heifers brought twice as much as last year, when calves defined the sale. Jindra credits the market for the change, but the family also operates a feedlot, and they know what it takes to be profitable in all segments of the industry.

A fourth generation family farmer, Jindra prefers to focus on a good reputation, rather than the scale of his business.

92 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

“We’ve bred a lot of top line Scotch Cap bulls along with a large number of elite calibre cows,” he says. “We want our customers to have success. Ultimately that means the consumer but it’s also a lot of commercial cattle producers.”

Macholan Angus is a happy neighbor Macholan bought the top-selling heifer this year, and has been purchasing Jindra stock for five years running. Those include standout bulls Double Vision and Wide Screen.

“They have to have a calf that gets up and grows on nothing more than his mother’s milk and the green grass, and he’s got to have that built into him,” Brett DeBruycker says. Their family runs about 2,200 Charolais Jindra, right, with Nathan Neujahr of Mill Iron motherNick cows intalksnorth-central Montana.

Angus of Liberty NE. Photo courtesy Jindra Angus.

THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • 93

Jindra

ANGUS The Macholan herd of 150 is located along the Platte River in nearby Linwood.

Jim Macholan believes he has a good working relationship next door and says the two ranches struck a deal: They would divide any embryos out of the $6,000 heifer Ebony Jindrus. ”We flushed her to Double Vision and tried to get some embryos out of her to share, but she only had one,” he said. “I told him it’s going to be hard for us to split.”

She bred late and had a nice bull calf.

Why did she stand out at the sale? He says: “We liked her numbers, her EPDs,

her performance, and her looks, I guess, because you’ve got to like the animal to pay any amount for it.”

For Macholan, the Scotch Caps are wearing well. They are breeding with Jindra’s bulls and participating in bull tests. At Midland last year, they were competitive.

The Columbus, Montana event is a veritable boot camp in which bulls from different breeders are developed in football-field sized pens. Over 120 days, they gain on a ration of 70 percent roughage to ensure functional bulls with longevity. Bulls are weighed and ultra-sounded for ribeye, back fat and intramuscular fat.

Jindra sale manager Kurt Schaff says Jindra’s is an unusual gene pool in today’s market with the pedigrees to be high performing cattle.

“I’ve had the privilege of working with these Angus lines for several years now and again this spring at our March sale,” Schaff says. “The Hoffs were successful breeders for many years and have since gone out of business, so the sales are a unique opportunity to purchase a part of those genetics.”

Dvorak Herefords

Reg#P43422435

2015 Bull & Heifer Sale Friday, February 6, 2015 • 1:00 p.m., CST At the ranch just NE of Pickstown, SD

Reg#43375931

BW 3.2

WW 56

YW 94

Milk REA MARB 31 .23 .19

Reg#P43375867

BW 1.6

WW 55

Offering:

BKR SANDERSON 73C 60S (42696328) • KB RB LINER 122L ET B631 (42539303) BOYD STOUT 1094 ET (43186793) • G DOMINO 442 (42534749) TG RED DIAMOND 0139 (43086277) • MH MONUMENT 909 (43019669) KB L1 DOMINO 665 (42674365) • KB L1 DOMINO 454P (42523485) PF ABOUT TIME 0031) 43150574) • LCX MD KEEEPSAKE 113 ET (43167933) DVOR 665 9175 DOMINO 150 (43185217) TH 89T 755T VICTOR 468Z (43279203)

Milk REA MARB 24 .25 .13

Reg#P43375890

- All sale animals are registered and sell with registration papers - 30 Coming two year old bulls - Ultrasound carcass data on all sale bull - 4 Feature herd bull prospects bull calves - Both horned and polled - 6 Halter broke show prospect heifer calves genetics bulls suitable for - 30 Registered replacement heifer calves - Many use on heifers

FEATURING GET OF THESE BREED LEADING SIRES:

YW 93

BW 3.4

WW 45

YW 62

Milk REA MARB 24 .35 -.08

Reg#43375869

Dvorak Herefords

BW .6

WW 57

YW 102

Milk REA MARB 28 .35 .21

Boyd Dvorak 605-491-7090 • Jeff Dvorak 605-491-2068 29738 383rd Ave. • Lake Andes, SD 57356 Check www.DvorakHerefords.com for updated photos and videos

94 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

BW -.4

WW 45

YW 91

Milk REA MARB 33 .09 .25

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These units are available for your viewing at: www.billsvolume.com or at one of our three locations THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • 95

indra JAngus

15th AnnuAl Production SAle Tues.

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1PM (CST) • Creighton Livestock Market • Creighton, NE 402-358-3449

Selling Approx.

125 Registered Angus Bulls Jindra Double Vision

50

Registered Angus Heifers

Connealy Reflection x Hoff Limited Edition BW 83 • WW 971 • YW 1695 BW +0.6 • WW +75 • YW +141 • Milk +25

Connealy Guinness Connealy Dublin x EGL Target BW 82 • WW 741 • YW 1322 BW +0.6 • WW +66 • YW +107 • Milk +22

Jindra Fortitude

Jindra Essential

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Largest Sire Groups by

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Breeder Feature

Medalen

ANGUS

Fertility and longevity are always in demand By jan swan wood

M

edalen Angus started into business in 1980 when Keith, then a high school freshman, bought registered heifers for an FFA project. “My dad had registered Angus in the late sixties and early seventies, but then got out of the registered business,” says Keith.

“We had a diversified farm with dairy cows, farming and beef cows at the time.

“Dad never pushed me into the registered deal though, I was just interested in it and decided that that’s what I wanted to do. I got a lot of tax deductible education after I got out of school and when you take an economic kicking, you figure out how to manage your cattle business better after that.”

Keith and his wife, Nikki, also a ranch girl, ranch north of Towner, North Dakota, near the Mouse River. Besides registered Angus cattle, they also raise registered Quarter Horses, which are Nikki’s passion. The horses earn their living working the cattle on the ranch, being used for calving and any time there’s cow work to do, especially during branding season. The Medalen Ranch doesn’t have four wheelers, so the horses stay busy.

The Medalens run their registered cows a little different from many breeders, as Keith explains, “We try to graze our cows into December most years and then the snow gets too deep and it gets too cold, so we have to feed hay. We feed mostly grass hay and keep Vitafirm mineral out to them all the time. I

100 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

don’t use cake, lick tubs or corn silage but do add some alfalfa to boost the protein in the last trimester.”

Calving begins in March and is done close up due to the cold and wind and the lack of big sheds. “We AI the end of May for 25-28 days, then turn the herd bulls out to cleanup.

We don’t synchronize anything as we don’t have the facilities to calve everything at once,” says Keith. “We have pastures that have good protection across the road and move pairs into them. Nikki usually has some young horses she’s riding so that makes a good job for them to do.”

At branding time the calves are all roped and a Nord fork is used. “Lots of ranches in our area rope for brandings so it makes

“They have to have a calf that gets up and grows on nothing more than his mother’s milk and the green grass, and he’s got to have that built The Medalens have raised registered Angus into him,” Brett DeBruycker says. Their family runs about 2,200 Charolais cattle and Quarter Horses together for 20 years. mother cows in north-central Montana.

Photo by Corinne Frey Photography

THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • 101

Breeder Feature May and June a lot of fun, going to different places,” says Keith. After branding, the cows go to grass. “We rotation-graze and really work at managing the grass in our pastures.

It has sure worked for us. We will double graze some pastures by grazing them early in the season then again in the fall.”

The feeding program isn’t the only thing unique about their methods, as they don’t chase the same things many breeders do.

“I pay little attention to EPDs as far as selection and promotion. We just decided to let the cattle’s appearance speak for themselves. Birthweight and frame scores are

important. Most of our cows are frame score 5 and weigh 1,200 to 1,300 pounds, though we do have a few cows bigger than that due to their pedigree,” says Keith. “We focus on making a better cow all the time and I strive to find herd sires whose mothers have raised seven or eight calves or more, with a

Thorstenson HEREFORD RANCH

Production Sale April 11, 2015 at the Ranch • Selby, SD

Selling 80 Bulls 55 Herefords & 25 Angus Plus 25 Registered Hereford Heifers

Sires: NJW 37U 100W Trust 113Z MAC’S Renditon 20X THR Thor 2100Z SR Saga 529W Pyramid 3027 Domino 1109 HH Advance 0001X ET

Thorstenson HEREFORD RANCH Bill & Paula Thorstenson • (605) 649-7940 Cell Phone (605) 845-6108 wpthorstenson@venturecomm.net Darin & Danielle Thorstenson (605) 649-1972 30491 131st Street, Selby, SD 57472

www.thorstensonherefordranch.com 102 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

The Medalen Angus cows graze out on winter pasture until the snow gets too deep in December. They are then fed native hay and mineral but no other supplements. Photo by Nikki Medalen.

mother the same way. We’ve used Cole Creek Angus genetics pretty heavily because they fit our program. Fertility is so important and we have always used bulls out of the older cows to get that and keep the longevity.”

“If a cow comes in open as a two or a four or whatever, she’s sold and if she had a bull calf, he gets cut. I’ve cut some that were pretty hard to cut. If there’s a fertility problem, I don’t want to pass it on,” says Keith.

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THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • 103

Breeder Feature Rotational grazing has enhanced the production of the pasture at Medalen's ranch near Towner, North Dakota. Photo by Nikki Medalen.

Your Trailer

Headquarters

“When Keith and I were first married, I thought he was really hard on the cows when he culled them,” says Nikki, “But it’s been proven to me with how the cows have improved over the years. It’s even affected how I look at the breeding of registered horses.”

Everything on the Medalen Ranch is registered. They sell about 40 head of bulls every year at their sale and sell some registered heifers private treaty. Everything else is sold commercially to one buyer who comes every year. Any bottom end heifers and steers are sold privately to another operator to run as grass cattle.

The Medalen Angus Bull Sale is held in early March in their garage. “We do a competitive auction in $100 increments with the bids taken slowly and carefully. It probably drives our auctioneer, Joe Hickel, crazy, but I like to keep it as low key as possible,” says Keith. Having a bull sale in the garage seems like an odd way of doing it until Keith explains “We don’t run them through a ring but video them and have a video sale.”

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104 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

“The bulls are on display that day and the buyers are invited to come and look them over before the sale,” says Nikki. “We sort them to have calving ease or cow bulls together in the pens, plus we have the cows up close to be looked at too.”

“We usually have a hundred or so people there. I don’t advertise a lot because we just don’t have the room for many more people.

We get lots of repeat buyers and they tend to bring their friends along,” Keith says.

The bull calves are prepped for the sale in a little different fashion as they aren’t pushed hard at any time. “We wean them on Head Start 70, then switch them gradually to a wheat mid pellets and corn mix. When they get up to 11 pounds of grain a day in January we leave them there. From weaning to yearling they do 2.2 to 2.5 ADG and are 1,025 to 1,050 pound average as yearlings,” says Keith. “We don’t want to burn the bulls out. We want them to be sound and stay that way and be able to breed cows up quickly and for many years to come.”

“When Nikki and I started in 1994, we had people think that the bulls weren’t big enough and it took a few years for the buyers to get the hang of our bulls and see that, though they aren’t big as yearlings, they’ll get big and be solid and sound for years to come,” says Keith. “Since we started, we’ve probably sold around 650 bulls and we’ve only had to replace maybe four due to a bull not breeding or getting cows covered. I want to stay at that rate. We also want the bulls to last at least five breeding seasons.”

“Bulls are awfully hard on themselves so it’s a challenge to keep them going that long, but if they’re sound in the feet and haven’t been burned out on feed, they’re way more likely to still be working when they are six or older,” says Keith.

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With the goals of raising cattle that can maintain and prosper on native hay and then be fertile and sound enough to be in the cowherd for many years, it’s no wonder that the Medalen bulls last so long and that they have so many repeat customers. Keith added with a smile, “The reason I raise cattle the way I do is that when I meet someone who has bought cattle from me, they’ll wave with all of their fingers.”

Customer satisfaction and a genuine love for what they do will keep the Medalens in the Angus business for many years to come, and that will be a good thing for everyone.

Fertility and “do-ability” will always be in demand.

THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • 105

Breeder Feature

Cattle are moved horseback at Medalen Angus. They ride their homegrown horses to do the job, which makes the job that much more pleasant. Photo by Nikki Medalen.

Tuesday, March 31, 2015 At the Ranch 15 mi. West & 2 1/2 mi. South of Winner, SD

Selling

120 Registered Yearling Bulls

Sire: AAR Really Windy 1205 MGS: VDAR Enterprise 2059

Other Featured Sires

Apex Windy 078 • Koupals Juneau 797 LAR Alliance 64L • Sitz Rainmaker 372 CAR Efficient

EPDS BW -1.9

WW +61

YW +98

106 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

M +15

SC +.15

Marb +.09

RE +.06

Fat +.021

Warner Ranch Shorthorns Welcome to the BLACK HILLS STOCK SHOW Shorthorn Show 11:00 am

February 5, 2015 • Sale at 3:00 pm

WR 38Y Encourager 460

WR CR Red Man 457

Reg. # 4212981, born 3/21/2014 Actual birth weight 73

Reg. # 4212996, born 3/22/2014 Actual birth weight 85

EPDs BW -0.9,WW 40.8,YW 43, Milk 22.6

EPDs BW 0.4,WW 47.2,YW 51.1, Milk 21

WR CR Discovery 450

WR 38Y Applause 459

Reg. # 4212991, born 3/29/2014 Actual birth weight 87

Reg. # 4212968, born 4/18/2014 Actual birth weight 86

EPDs BW 1.4,WW 51.9,YW 59, Milk 22.9

EPDs BW 1.9,WW 51.2,YW 60.5, Milk 19.4

Thank you to all buyers who have supported the sales in the past.

Also selling at Black Hills Stock Show Feb. 4, 2015, 2 Registered Polled Hereford Bulls and 1 Registered Polled Hereford Heifer. Sired by Bar M Class Act 202, a calving ease son of TH 122 711 Victor 719.

Warner Ranch Shorthorns, Riverton, Wyoming

phone:307-857-4240, Bryan’s cell number 307-850-7668 e-mail: bwarner@wyoming.com

Breeder Feature

Pedersons’ Broken Heart

red angus ranch By heather smith thomas

The Broken Heart Red Angus and Quarter Horse Ranch near Firesteel, South Dakota has a long history. The ranch was founded

by Ralph and his wife Helen. Ralph, --in his mid-90s—now lives at the Good Samaritan Center in Selby, South Dakota. Helen passed away in November, just after celebrating their 71st wedding anniversary in October.

Their son Gary and his wife Sue are now running the ranch, along with their grandson Chad, his wife Lisa and daughter Bricelyn.

A Bit of History Ralph Pederson got into the cattle business during the Great Depression when his uncle Melvin Thorstenson helped him get started with 20 cows on shares. He was born on a ranch that his parents homesteaded, but his father passed away when Ralph was just a “long yearling.” At that time his mother took her two children to live with her parents and her brothers Melvin and

108 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

Adolph. In 1936, when Ralph was a teenager, they moved back to the homestead, and that’s where Ralph began running cattle on shares. He farmed the place with horses and also worked in a coal mine for 35 cents an hour.

Ralph registered his brand in 1937, for his new cow herd. He tried several choices but they were already taken. The Broken Heart brand was his 16th choice, so when it was

accepted he decided that this would be the name of his ranching operation.

He met his wife Helen when she was superintendent of schools in Ziebach County and they were married in 1943. They lived on his mother’s homestead, and then bought the present ranch—8 miles away—in 1947.

It was originally a sheep outfit. Ralph and Helen raised sheep for 10 years, along with their cattle, and at one time had 1,200 ewes.

Ralph kept increasing cattle numbers and cutting down on sheep, partly because sheep were more work than the cows, but mainly because of coyote problems. He says coyotes were the reason he finally quit raising sheep. He and Helen had Hereford cross cows, and started using Red Angus bulls. In 1961 they purchased their first Red Angus female. That cow became the foundation of their registered herd. Ralph gave Helen credit for this transition, saying she had

tried to talk him into Red Angus for years.

He says it was a good change that worked out very well for them.

In 1962 they bought more registered cattle from Beckton Red Angus in Wyoming and George Chiga in Oklahoma—two of the founders of the breed. As Ralph and Helen expanded their Red Angus herd, their sons Gary and Ron were very involved in the operation. Gary has been on the ranch since

THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • 109

Breeder Feature

he finished high school. He married Sue in 1965 and she is an important part of the team. Sue takes care of the bookkeeping for the ranch, all the cattle records and performance data, and records for their horses.

Ron owns Stub’s Welding in Rapid City and comes back to the ranch to help with the bigger tasks and keeps the ranch well outfitted in high quality equipment he engineers and manufactures.

The Family Gary and Sue have four children and 12 grandchildren. Their oldest son Bart is a minister; he and his wife Carol and four children live in Knoxville, Tennessee. Their son Brett and his wife Cindy live near Glad Valley, South Dakota and have five children.

Their daughter Kim and her husband Cliff Olson ranch near White River, South Dakota and have two children. Their son Chad

Chad, Lisa and Bricelyn: Chad Pederson grew up on the Broken Heart Ranch, and now, with his wife, Lisa and daughter, Bricelyn, carries on his grandfather’s goal of raising cattle that cattlemen want.

Courtesy photo.

110 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

and his wife Lisa are part of the Broken Heart Ranch and have one daughter.

Chad met Lisa, North Dakota State University Extension Beef Quality Specialist, when she was a speaker at a Red Angus seminar. They share an interest in cattle and horse industries and were married in 2003.

“She still works for NDSU in Bismarck, 120 miles away, and comes home weekends and holidays. Our 3-year-old daughter, Bricelyn

Breeder Feature is an animal lover. Lisa came from a ranching operation in southwestern Colorado.

She and Mom deserve a lot of credit for all the things they do on the ranch,” says Chad.

The ranch work is mainly done by family, though they have a neighbor who helps for several months. “He starts helping us after the first of the year, getting ready for the bull sale,” says Gary. “He assists with trimming bulls, and helps us off and on through the winter, and through calving, then goes to work for other neighbors.”

Chad says that on sale day they have a lot of friends and neighbors who come to help.

“We couldn’t do it without them.” For the last five years, Gary and Sue’s oldest grandson Logan has been coming from Tennessee

for the summers. “He likes to help with the haying. He just loves it out here, and fell in love with this country,” says Gary.

The Cattle The Pedersons have worked hard to keep improving their cattle. Their Red Angus are bred to perform, as well as being very maternal, with good dispositions. They are bred for length and muscle, proper structure, and efficiency. Gary says the ranch stands behind their cattle “because our reputation depends on how they perform.”

Some of their customers have been buying bulls from Broken Heart Red Angus for nearly 40 years. “We’ve had repeat customers ever since Dad and Grandpa started sell-

ing Red Angus. Those customers are some of the better cattlemen in the industry and we feel fortunate to have those followers,” says Chad.

They carcass ultrasound their heifers and bull calves to provide more data for customers. Production sales are held at the ranch (first Wednesday in March) and 2015 will be their 37th annual sale. “We generally try to offer about 100 bulls, and a select group of females at this annual sale. We’ve also sold commercial Red Angus heifers each year through the Mobridge Livestock Auction in January, but the last couple years we’ve been selling them here at the ranch as part of our production sale,” says Chad.

The Pederson family has been ranching in northwestern South Dakota for nearly 80 years. Their focus has been on producing high-quality cattle and fast horses.

Courtesy photo.

112 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

“We run a commercial herd along with the registered herd. One nice thing about running the commercial herd is that it allows us to sample, first hand, the genetics we are selling. This helps us know how they will perform for customers. If something doesn’t work, we make changes to improve our customers’ herds and our own herd,” he says.

The main ranch is on rolling plains with native grass pastures. “We also have some land about 11 miles to the east, with a lot of timber. We grow our own feed; we have a lot of hay ground, and also chop about 60 acres of corn. Calves are fed through winter after

Ralph and Helen Pederson celebrated 71 years of marriage in October.

Helen passed away in November of 2014.

Courtesy photo.

THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • 113

Breeder Feature

Gary and Sue are the second generation of the Pedersons to carry on the Broken Heart brand.

weaning, but run in big 20 to 25 acre lots with plenty of room,” says Chad.

“They get a lot of exercise and are fit. We walk through the bulls every day to evaluate them, and get a better idea about which ones we want to offer for sale. We start out with about 125 bull calves but they all don’t make the sale. We are very strict on culling.

A sharp knife should be the best friend of every seedstock producer,” he says. This helps ensure that customers will be happy with the bulls they buy.

Courtesy photo.

Auction

Bull Sale

SSBR Objective 292 SSBR Objective 410, sired by SSBR Objective 292

Sires Represented: SSBR Objective 292 SS Objective T510 0T26 Summitcrest Complete 1P55 KCF Bennett Performer

Annual Bull Sale February 28, 2015 Harding County Stockgrowers Pavilion Buffalo, SD Viewing 10:30-1:00

Sale 1:00pm

Lunch will be Served!

Travis, Rebecca & Family

12346 Saddle Butte Pl. Buffalo, SD 57720

12346 Saddle Butte Pl. • Buffalo, SD 57720

Phone: • Cell: 605-641-5288 • Email: ssbr@sdplains.com

605-375-3820

Red Angus is becoming a popular breed today. “The Red Angus Association of America is focused more toward the commercial cattleman and continually advancing the EPDs for the benefit of the commercial producer. The Association also offers a commercial marketing program which assists cattlemen in marketing their calf crop,” says Chad.

“One advantage this breed has, as a whole, against many other breeds, is disposition.

They are more mild-mannered and easier to handle than some. It’s a tighter gene pool than the Black Angus and there are many Red Angus breeders trying to expand the gene pool. But I think our EPD profile, versatility and temperament are advantages and a strong point that Red Angus has,” he says.

Smith’s Saddle Butte Ranch Smith’s Saddle ButteSilent Ranch

“We have always tried to select herd bulls with strong maternal traits, yet still have some length and power. We try to find that happy balance between heifer bulls and performance bulls. A lot of people prefer the performance bulls and come back year after year for those genetics. Demand is also increasing for heifer bulls with calving ease and performance. We try to blend these traits so customers have the best of both.

We’ve searched for and purchased bulls from Texas to Alberta, and are not afraid to go after the ones that fit our customers’ needs and our program,” Chad explains.

“That way our customers can keep up with the best genetics the breed has to offer. If the cattle have versatility, they will suit the needs of many operations.”

114 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

The Horses Ralph and Helen always loved horses and in 1961 started breeding and racing Quarter Horses. For many years they sold race-bred horses for ranch and arena prospects. Many racing stars were kept and used for their own saddle horse string and broodmare band. The Pedersons currently market their young horses at the Dakota Breeders Classic Sale at Mobridge Livestock Auction.

The breeding of racehorses was a spinoff of the days when they owned a stallion that won nearly all the local races. Following those successes they started racing at tracks across South Dakota, Wyoming and

Gary started the young horses, to get them ready to go to a trainer, and then Chad took over that task. A few years ago, however, they cut back on racing. “We skipped a few years because Mom and Dad couldn’t get to the races anymore. They were the ones who always went. Then in 2010 Chad and Lisa took a mare of ours to be bred to CS Flashlight, owned by Brian and Lisa Fulton and we started raising racehorses again. Our ranch was awarded the 2012 Cumulative Award from AQHA for registering foals for 50 years,” says Gary.

“In 2013 and 2014 we won the South Dakota Bred futurity at the Brown County Fair meet and had the leading money earning South Dakota bred 2-year-old, with two full siblings,” says Chad. “Grandpa and Grandma chose not to run racehorses for a few years, but we made the decision to continue their racing legacy. We still sell colts at the Dakota Breeders Classic every fall and now these are mainly performance horse bloodlines. A lot of them sell as barrel and rope horses today.”

They still dabble in racing. “Last year, our 2-year-old colt BHR Light My Fire won several year-end awards from the South Dakota Quarter Horse Racing Association. He was a high seller in the Fulton Performance Horse and Production Sale, selling to Mike and Debbie Hertz from Medicine Hat, Alberta.

So he’s now in Canada and will eventually be standing at stud,” says Chad.

“This year his full sister, BHR Guys Flash Me, won the South Dakota Bred futurity at Brown County Fair and the Minnesota Stallion Breeder’s Futurity, and several yearend awards,” says Gary. Raising cattle and horses are Pedersons’ passion and livelihood, but the thrill of racing horses is still in their blood.

Courtesy photo.

Minnesota. Ralph and Helen put together a group of broodmares that had done very well on the track as fillies, and always had a good stallion. They won a lot of races but mainly raced horses for fun and a hobby.

Ralph Pederson worked as a “grease monkey” in a coal mine for 35 cents an hour, built roads with a four-horse hitch and scraper, and eventually built a reputable Red Angus and quarter horse business, with the help of his family.

42nd Annual Production Sale

Lehrkamp Livestock Sunday, April 12, 2015 1:30 pm at the ranch

Selling: 48 Angus Bulls 2 Hereford Bulls 5 Angus Heifers

Sires Represented • TC Vance • SD Vance • Deep Creek Wilson • GS Mandate • EXAR Upsot • Buford Onward • Buford Warrant • DB Pendleton • PRA Windy 725 • SH 8303 Domino CALL FOR A CATALOG: Mike & Jodie Lehrkamp Home: 605-993-6171 Cell: 605-441-5532 • Carl: 605-993-6541 EMAIL: grammyj02@hotmail.com

Ranch located 35 miles southeast of Rapid City on Hwy. 44 or 6 miles northwest of Scenic on Hwy. 44.

Ranch signs on Hwy. 44.

THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • 115

Breeder Feature

Murray Farms

lowline angus A line of his own. Wyoming producer crosses lowline Angus with big cows to get back to better beef.

By nicole michaels

K

enton Murray came back to the family farm a few years ago, and he drew the short straw in the cow herd.

He couldn’t be happier about it.

The 43-year-old Wyoming native started with a few straws of shipped semen from some purebred Lowline Angus bulls, and inseminated family Angus heifers with the help of his former brother in law.

About two years into the deal, Murray is happy with his cows’ “shortcomings.”

“This is not a novelty for me,” says Murray, who has had to defend his breeding program to critics seeing mini cows as nothing but a fad for a hobbiest.“We want a meat wagon. We are beef producers. We want as much meat on that carcass as possible.”

The complex known as Murraymere outside of Powell, Wyoming is in its 100th year.

A white farmhouse stands behind a stone gate with arching metal letters floating the Murraymere name into high desert sky.

In spite of decades of tradition that spans several generations, there is still room for innovation, and changing with the times has kept the farm moving forward.

Murray Farms now grows all its own feed, pastures cows, and fattens them in its onsite feed lot where they are fed a custom ration. They ship directly to the packing plant.

“I like to call our place a conception to consumption operation,” says patriarch Keith Murray. He is sitting in a chair, winter coat still on, inside a windowless business office crammed with books and records. The office, walled off in the farm shop, boasts a 1930s photograph of an Angus cow that was

116 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

the diminutive and delectable standard of the day.

“See how small she is?” the elder Murray says, leaning forward with enthusiasm.

He is corrected by his son, “Dad, I think that’s a steer.”

The amiable pair both have the complexions of men who work outside for a living, and for a minute, they get lost in discussion.

They are trying to determine the gender of the haltered animal.

Both quickly agree on what matters about the photo-- the Angus breed has gotten too far away from the small-framed creatures that once made the breed desirable.

Farmers and ranchers enjoyed working with them. They were easy on the land, easy

“This is not a novelty for me… we want as much meat on that carcass as possible.”

- Kenton Murray, Wyoming Lowline Angus producer

on fences, handled daily by children and even penned and fed a diet of forage or finished on grass. And they made lots of good beef on a small frame.

“With the Lowline,” says the younger Murray, “We are going forward but we are also getting back to our roots. People want the quality.”

Murray is breeding in the shadow of larger animals and putting up with some teasing around the barn about his “lowlife” cows. Confident in himself and in his third year of the venture, he rises to the call of quality quite comfortably in an operation that already ships quality beef.

ninety-eight percent choice. Those all grade choice and some grade prime.”

the farm. “We got to test our product, and he’s eatin’ wonderful,” he says, grinning.

Lowlines and Lowline hybrids are for the patient producer who sees a future market and is content to live within a niche for the time being, says Murray.

At six-foot-seven, the younger Murray towers over his hybrids. Dressed for cold weather in a hooded sweatshirt and canvas duck pants, he moves easily through the bull herd, pointing out the white ear tags on the Lowlines.

He uses natural service these days and will have 15 half-blood or quarter-blood lowlines calving in February. He has a couple of percentage bulls he kept back. His first choice as a herd sire, “Chunky Monkey,” broke his leg in a fight after being brought in from pasture. He had to be put down.

He really doesn’t have to point them out.

Their short stature would be obvious in the herd, even to an uneducated eye, and that means the breeding is working. Maybe.

“It’snothing not as simple asmore picking the smallest “They have to have a calf that gets up and grows on than “My wife cried. We loved that bull,” Mur- ones from your crop,” Murray says. “You his mother’s milk and theraygreen and stock, he’sthegotneedtoto be have thatto built says. But,grass, being of farming really careful avoid the dwarf“We pride ourselves that DeBruycker everything we Murrays driedTheir their tearsfamily and put “Chunky gene. And you needCharolais to look for the best into him, ” Brett says. runs ism about 2,200 ship is hand-picked,” says the elder Mur- Monkey” in the freezer. Murray packs quality animal overall. I don’t necessarmother cows in north-central Montana. ray, “and that’s why we ship ninety-five to around a zip-loc bag of jerkey made from ily hold back the smallest heifer. She has to that harvest as he makes his rounds around

have that beautiful feminine Angus head, a

THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • 117

nice compact udder, length and the width and muscling I am looking for.�

Today the Mona Ranch sells seedstock to five-acre California ranchettes and small acreages all across the west, and to a handful of larger ranches that want to scale down the size of their cows and bulls.

She might need that extra something Murray can’t quite define. “I know what I like when I see it.�

As a breed, Lowline heifers are known for their mothering skills, their ability to breed back quickly, and to stand up over time.

Murray wants to add five heifers to his program going forward.

He points to some monster cows in the pen, whose tall profiles resemble the exotics and the Holsteins that got bred into the Angus line nationwide during what he calls “The Race to the Top� in the late ‘80s and early ‘90s.“That’s a really big cow and it takes a lot to keep her fed and she isn’t necessarily going to produce the best calf. On nd top of that, some of these Angus cows are just done by the time they are ten, I mean they are done. That is not good.�

They also sell beef, and can custom finish on grass but prefer to finish on corn.

He has seen animals butcher at 60 percent the size of a larger Angus, so that compares to a half a beef in a standard breed.

For smaller acreage, the cow is efficient on feed and the small producer will see more profit. “On a small acreage, you have to have a more valuable animal. You can’t make any money if you don’t.�

Gray’s Angus Ranch Their experience has been that the little cow is docile, easy to fence, easy to calve, and easy to enjoy on the dinner plate.

Running anywhere from 15 to 85 head on his place, he can see the stocking rates of two to three Lowlines per standard cow that are commonly quoted, but says it might take some hay in the winter to make that work.

nd cut our steaks a little thicker so you “2get“We Century�

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While they may net less by the pound when shipped to the packing plant or the average sale barn, “You have less in them and I think that’s going to change anyway. I don’t know that they will ever be main-stream but they have their place in the market, especially for consumers who want good, tasty beef.�

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WW+70 YW+119 M+32 Allen BW+.3 Cowardin of the 165-acre Mona Ranch puts his little hard-working cows out to pasture just north of the Black Hills National Forest. On the foot print of the old post office sits his house, and some of the land was homesteaded by family. Ten years ago the Cowardins started with full-blooded Lowline stock, and quickly found the percentage pure bred were easier to market.

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Breeder Feature

Owner Gene Kantack is nothing short of opinionated and fanatical about his little cows. Equating them with the Smart Car, he is steering into the future. “This is the future of beef in this country. Not everybody is seeing it that way, sure. Some people still want to take their half-ton to town just to get the mail. But we are going smaller everything.”

Cowardin appreciates that the smaller animals don’t win Wyoming producers over very readily, in a state where ranching tends to be traditional and run on a lot of range. He has had more success in western states like Colorado where land is being cut into 15 and 40 acre plots.

Mini-Cows West ships semen and sells purebred seed stock, and has a comprehensive website. The site has a sales page, literature on the breed and its origins, as well as university studies on its own animals.

Studies score cows on muscling after ultrasounding of live breeding stock.

The ranch’s position is that Lowliness should be of substantial interest not only to hobbyists and homesteaders, but also to the mainstream beef industry.

Cowardin has heard talk of sales in the region dedicated to Lowliness, but hasn’t seen any advertised.

For now, Murray’s little herd is closed, and he has no plans to sell seed stock, but

“I can understand why it’s hard to change what you are doing,” he says. “Change in the cattle industry is in slow motion. The decisions you make today you don’t see the results for a few more years.”

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Calling his outfit a “mom and pop” operation that is both progressive and at the same time harks back to the days of smaller homesteads, the Cowardins love to mentor new owners and prospective owners of the breed, saying they had the same reception when they were getting started.

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foresees selling some butcher animals to locals. “I would love to do that. The whole animal is just the right size for a family.”

He remembers seeing his first full-blood Lowlines at a ranch in Idaho. “I wasn’t prepared for how small they actually were.”

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But he was impressed and persisted with a passion that is a Murray tradition until he found the right plan for him. He has no regrets.

“People gotta eat,” he says, “And I hope they keep eating beef. We could go for another hundred years.”

For many years we have been in the business of helping with these problems.

In the meantime, he’ll do his thing in the spirit of the Murraymere name that is Scottish for“green pastures.” And he’ll take the ribbing for his little cows with the powerful builds and short limbs.

“You can’t eat the legs,” he says.

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THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • 121

Cow Dogs

Susan Nelson

Border Collies

By AMANDA RADKE

Slow and steady. That’s what Susan Nelson, a rancher from Buffalo, South Dakota, looks for in a good border collie.

“You want the dog to work the stock in a slow, steady and smooth way,” said Nelson, who has raised both cattle and sheep over the years with her husband Ken. “Ranchers need to look for a dog that has a huge work ethic and a desire to move stock. But, you’ve got to make sure you have enough work for your dog to do, or he’ll get into trouble.”

Border collies are bred to be highly energetic and athletic, with a natural instinct to work livestock. Nelson said it would be tough to do what she does on the ranch without the help of her dogs.

“A good dog can take the place of a couple of people,” she said. “When we’re short-handed and cows need to be moved, I’ll take my two dogs and the four-wheeler and easily move the cattle from one pasture to the next.”

122 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • 123

Cow Dogs Nelson grew up with border collies, where her dad used them on their sheep operation. In 1980, Nelson attended a dog training clinic, and it was there that she started learning commands and gaining a better understanding of how a border collie thinks.

Multiple uses of a sheep dog on the ranch “We sold our sheep, but for the longest time, we used the dogs exclusively on sheep,” she said. “It takes a special dog to be able to use on both sheep and cattle because

you need a bite on the cow but not a sheep.

It’s a hard transition, but some dogs adapt well to both situations.”

There are multiple ways to use a border collie on sheep, she explained. The first, and most obvious, is rounding up a flock and moving them to a new destination. The second way Nelson has relied on a dog to help her on the ranch is when a ewe needs to be treated or sorted off for any reason.

“My dog can sort out a single lamb by circling it and bringing her in closer and closer until I’m able to catch her and flip the ewe,” she said. “If you have a lamb loose that needs brought back in to the flock, the dog does the same thing -- circling her tighter and tighter until she finds her way back.”

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The third way Nelson has used a border collie in her sheep operation is a surprising one. The sheep dog has helped her to get a ewe to take her newborn lambs.

“If I have a ewe that’s really stubborn and won’t take her newborn lambs, I set the dog close by her pen to watch over things,” she

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124 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

Susan Nelson poses with her border collies -- Sadie, Sky, Liz and Toots -- which she says have been an important tool on her sheep and cattle operation over the years. Photo courtesy Susan Nelson.

said. “With the dog so close, the ewe gets defensive and has a natural instinct to protect the lambs. This works like a charm 90 percent of the time, especially if the ewe tries to wander off. The dog rounds her back up and forces her to stay by her lambs.”

Border collies are bred to be athletic, energetic and have the natural instinct to work stock. Nelson says they love nothing more than to work and be praised for a job well done.

So what makes a good sheep dog? Nelson has a few things she looks for and trains for in her dogs.

“The dog needs to have a good eye, which means they keep their eyes locked on the sheep and keep their body position low,” she said. “There are dogs that work really high and have their tails up, and that will immediately put the sheep on alert. They need to be low and slow and drop when you say down.”

Photo courtesy Susan Nelson.

70

Competing at trials Over the years, Nelson has competed at various local and regional sheep dog trials.

In 1990, she attended a clinic that piqued her interest in participating in trial competitions. At the 2014 Black Hills Stock Show Sheep Dog Trials, she placed fifth, with her 4-year-old border collie, Sadie.

“A trial dog has all of the qualities of a great ranch dog, but they are more consistent,” she said. “Sadie is so quiet and smooth. She’s able to drive really well and cross-drive the stock. There are a lot of obstacles in a trial course, so the dog needs to be able to move sheep through a variety of situations. They need to be able to pen the sheep, move them, and not be nervous about a new environment.”

While it takes a couple of years before a good sheep dog comes into their own and consistently does well in trials and working on the ranch, Nelson said it all starts with the basics. She starts training as early as 10 weeks old and has found some have a knack for the job of working stock right away and others aren’t ready until well past a year of age.

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“I had a puppy once that was only 10-weeks old, and just for fun, I took her

THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • 125

Cow Dogs

with me to work some sheep. It was all fun and games in the pickup, but once she saw the sheep, she was all business. Her body dropped, her eyes got intense, and she walked confidently right up to the sheep. If one would bust out, she would round them right back up,” recalled Nelson. “Some dogs will turn on earlier and others aren’t interested in moving stock until much later. Some dogs just might not have it. That comes down to your breeding. It pays to buy a dog from a reputable breeder. Make sure the dog wants to work.”

Training tips Nelson recommends that training start with a leash.

“Do not let the dog cross in front of you or pull on the leash,” she said. “A dog pulling

on the leash is disrespecting you. Likewise, dogs should never enter the corral unless they are asked. It’s kind of like raising kids; you’ve got to have rules. Sometimes, it’s hard for people to enforce rules because the puppy is so cute. But, if you’re not disciplined, the puppy grows up to be a big dog that doesn’t have manners. That’s not very cute at all.”

consider buying a trained dog,” she said. “If you buy a trained one, make sure you learn the commands as the dogs learns, too. If I sell a dog, I always make sure the new owner watches me use commands, so they know what the dog is capable of doing. A dog relies so much on body language and positioning, so the owner must be confident in commanding the dog.”

Nelson likens training a dog to training a colt.

Common mistakes

“You teach the colt how to work in the corral long before you ever take the horse out to move cattle in the pasture,” said Nelson. “It’s very much like breaking colts. You’re body position and signals, as well as respect, are so important.”

Like many trainers, Nelson prefers starting to train a dog on sheep.

“A lot of ranchers gripe because they don’t have sheep on the place to train their dogs,” said Nelson. “But I tell them it’s like teaching your kid to work livestock for the first time. Would you rather put a kid in the pen with five ewes or five calves? A kid, and likewise a dog, is less likely to get hurt by a sheep than a calf. They might get rolled, but they don’t kick, so it’s much safer to start training that way.”

In addition to sheep, goats and even ducks make good starters for stock dogs, Nelson said. “They all have the flocking instinct -- unlike cattle that will break apart and take their own path. Even if one of them spreads out, the group will always come back together.”

“The most important thing for someone getting a ranch dog for the first time is to

126 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

“Training a sheep dog takes a lot of patience and a lot of love,” said Nelson. “A border collie just wants to please you. They have a huge work ethic, and they love to be able to work for you. Sometimes people run into trouble when they let the dogs sit idle too much, lose control of the dog, or don’t understand how a border collie works.”

For example, Nelson said the biggest thing she has learned over the years is the border collie’s instinct is to gather and fetch, not chase from behind.

“So many people don’t understand the gather and fetch principle, and they get frustrated when they try to drive the stock, and their dog goes out in front,” said Nelson. “Then they yell at the dog and wonder why the dog isn’t working right. When I work sheep in the corrals, I go to the gate in the front, send the dogs out, and they bring the dogs through the gate. It saves so many steps.”

Nelson said the same idea applies to cattle. She recently had to move some young yearlings, and she simply had to stand in the front and open the gate while her dogs moved the group into the corral.

“The yearlings were curious about what I was doing at the gate, and I just had to open

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27262 424th Avenue, Emery, SD 57332 Home: 605-825-4219 • Dale 605-661-3625 Scott 605-682-9610 • Jared 605-933-1661 Call or email for a sale book, or visit www.WerningCattle.com Eberspacher Enterprises Inc. Val & Lori Eberspacher 507-532-6694 Val Eberspacher Cell 612-805-7405 Kelly Schmidt Cell 406-599-2395 Email: sales@ebersale.com 2904 County Road 6, Marshall, MN 56258

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Cow Dogs

Courtesy Photo

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Photo courtesy Susan Nelson

“At 10 weeks old, a border collie can already demonstrate the natural instinct to work stock,” says Susan Nelson, of Buffalo, S.D.

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the gate, and my dogs did all the work,” she said. “When working stock, keep in mind that they will naturally be on the opposite side of where you are. If I’m at the 12 hand on the clock, my dog is at six. One of the most important things a dog will learn is balance and the ability to keep the appropriate distance on both the outrun and when flanking.”

These lessons, Nelson said, must be learned in the close quarters of a corral before a dog is ready to move cattle or sheep in a pasture.

“You have to go to the round pen and teach them how to follow your commands and your body position,” said Nelson. “And if you ever get into a problem with a dog, be sure to correct the issue right away by telling the dog to lie down. The lie down command is the most important tool an owner has. It allows you to correct misbehavior because it takes the dog out of the action he so enjoys. Ultimately, a dog’s reward is being able to come along and work and being praised for a job well done.”

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Cow Dogs

130 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

Tammy’s

cowdogs

By NICOLE MICHAELS

Compelling blog tells of heartache and good works through the eyes of one tough woman and a few tough pups.

They don’t wear work gloves but they come to get the job done.

Together, Hawk, Duchess, and Bandit are a hardworking trinity of Hangin’ Tree cowdogs owned and trained by rancher Tammy Goldammer. She works them in alleys, chutes, creek beds, brush, open range, pasture and in all aspects of her cattle operation.

It’s the only help she’s got, but it’s plenty.

“We are a formidable partnership,” Goldammer says. “What I need, they give. They do not work against me. They do not work against a situation. They listen. They know their business. They are savvy. They are quiet. They are ‘bam’ there for grit, then back off so as to not make a difficult situation worse or impossible.”

Born and raised on a cattle and horse ranch in the Sandhills of Nebraska, Goldammer communicates with the soulful cadence of a preacher one day and a salty cowgirl the next.

She has built a life of stock dogs, drinking “strong woman” coffee, penning “gnarly sisters,” fighting weeds and personal demons, and blogging about it all.

THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • 131

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A blogger who writes from her ranch in Lohman, Missouri, she uses her 125 head of mother cows to work the dogs she sweats and bleeds with. She also aspires to feed out and sell beef in the top 25 percent of the national market.

A big part of her cow management is running savvy dogs that don’t stress the stock.

For the sake of her fans, it’s a good thing Goldammer does blog because you won’t see her working her dogs at a competition.

“The best cow dogs are on ranches, farms, feedlots, working day in, day out,” she says.

“What sets me so far apart from the dog world is I ranch. The dog world talks about working cattle but they generally think working cattle is in an arena at a competition. I have yet to see a dog world cow dog that could fulfill my daily needs.”

She trains for the ranch, farm, and feedlot, selling handy partners for finding, gathering, sorting, moving, doctoring, penning, and loading cattle.

Goldammer calls her blog her “digital diary.” “Part of good stewardship is to take my daily life, capture it and share it with those who have no clue about production agriculture and the details of growing meat for food. I help feed the world and try to do so in a positive manner.”

It hasn’t been easy.

In 2002, Goldammer purchased her first Hangin’ Tree cowdog pup, Bert, from renowned trainer Charlie Trayer after watching Trayer bring in yearlings with three of his dogs. Six years later, she would buy his business as he retired. But the friendship and the transaction were not what she expected, ending in a legal dispute and some name-calling.

The investment promised much, with 16 dogs representing the foundation of the Hangin’ Tree bloodlines of Smoke, Sally, Bob, Lil, and Sage. Goldammer retains the rights to Trayers’ 48-page book and twohour video “Training the Working Cowdog,” and both can be purchased on her website.

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THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • 133

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She is working on her own material now, and far from living in Trayer’s shadow, she rose above that to retrain the man’s own dogs. His legacy to her, she says, wound up being to pass along some serious behavioral issues in the animals.

“They were used to being rogue, operated with e-collars and would ignore an e-collar and continue with trying to kill one of their own, a baby calf, or mauling a cow. I learned a lot, really quick, that I had to up my stamina to be on top of the discipline.”

Goldammer regained control of the pack with a potent mix of patience and establishing a hierarchy. “ I had to affirm to them that I was the boss, the alpha and that their killing behavior to each other and the stock was not going to work here.”

In her blog, some irritable mother cows try the dogs and get plenty of pushback. But there is mutual respect and the hands find the right balance. She accepts no less, and selects dogs from her breeding program that are easy to train and built to last.

THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • 135

Cow Dogs

“Tammy’s Cowdogs” on Facebook is maxed out at 5,000 friends, but you can “follow” it to keep current. You won’t want to miss out on the annual production and field day if you are a serious cowdog person.

“The challenge in a working world with stock is the people,” she says. “People get ingrained to how they have always seen or done stuff and overlook simple and obvious things.

If a person can fit in socially and understand the ‘why’ of how stock move, then people will be able to get their work done with less stress.”

Dogs, like people, have different rates of recovery and repair. “I've got some Hangin’ Tree

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cowdogdays14…Is a Wrap

by Tammy Goldammer www.tammyscowdogs.com May 14, 2014 Weather? Perfect Folks? Perfect Cowdog pup performances? Not perfect but fun. Overall for 3 days? Perfect Pups 9-9.5 months old ranged from $1,500 to $2,600. Used 30 head of fall calves. Pups are a powerful, smart, gutsy, brave set of pups.

Demonstrated them bringing cattle, getting ahead, redirecting the right/left, having them stop working, come, show their patience in the alleys with cattle, some basic sorting, then had them bring cattle to the alley and up/out the chute. Just very, very basic work. Pups did a good job of tracking and moving the calves and holding them to the gate to load up the alley.

Had to e-collar Henry to slow him down and help his “whoa.” That in itself was a very educational moment for all to see that very light collar use can be so beneficial for the pup and the cattle. New homes include – Louisiana, Oklahoma, North Dakota, Nebraska and Kansas.

On a side note…Rulo stole the show. That little guy is like the “do all, down in the trenches guy”. Small in stature but mighty as a grinding-it-out workaholic. Mr. Steady. Rulo heads, heels, barks very little, but knows a frequent bark will move the cattle. He just really keeps his mouth shut and does his job. He is pleasant to be around and is not a smarty around other cowdogs. Rulo loves life. There was a young man that has been coming here for a few years. A really nice person, going to college in western Oklahoma, polite, admirable. I asked him which pup he enjoyed watching the most and he said Rulo. I just scratched Rulo from the sale and gave Rulo to this young fella. They will make a good pairing and get a lot done. I like “good” people.

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GROSSENBURG IMPLEMENT, INC. Phone: 605-842-2040 • 1-800-658-3440 THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • 137

Visit her blog and you’ll likely accept the invitation to read her tribute to Bert, the program’s foundation sire, who passed away after an accident—despite the veterinary school’s efforts to save him. You’ll meet another dog who badly fractured his face working with a bull, but didn’t quit until the job was done and who is healing well after several surgeries and tedious care. Philosophical musings will keep you reading, and you’ll find downhome portraits of harvest moons and iron skillet apple pie.

Low stress stock handling has to be holistic to work, says Goldammer. It’s all part of a lifestyle and a mindset, not a gimmick.

cowdogs here from other folks that bred, trained, sold them and the dogs have been through hell and back. Some will make it, others will never get past the mental scars.”

Today, she takes pride in a closed cowherd and closed cowdog breeding program.

“For me, the key is disposition. My disposition, my horse's disposition, my cow dog’s disposition. If you can learn the art of an even, level-headed, respectful disposition, then your life and your life's products will be better.”

She takes the long view of her stewardship of the land. “Climate over the past several years has forced changes. Several years

138 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

of significantly less water from God has changed things for me. I downsized the cow herd from 600 to 125. Calving in spring and fall turned to calving in the fall. The place needs consistent rain to repair itself. Being at the mercy of purchased hay was ruthless.”

A task left undone is to heed her own handwritten note: “Go to Biblegateway.com and search for ‘dog.’”

Her web site offers this plainspoken welcome: “You have just arrived at the website of Tammy's Cowdogs and Goldammer Ranch. If you have cattle to work and are looking for an easier way to handle your cattle, you have certainly come to the right place.”

As you follow her progress, remember that on the blog “we” refers to Goldammer and her cow dogs. Nothing more, nothing less.

Cow Dogs

Dockter’s

Border Collies

By COLETTE “KOKO” GJERMUNDSON

Good People, Good Dogs It was the early 1960s. Denise Dockter was a young Cogswell, North Dakota, ranch wife, home alone with a herd of registered Angus bulls that were out of their pen and heading down the road. She sent their border collie out to bring the bulls back. “I wasn’t sure what might happen because he’d had little training,” she said, “But he went out as I told him, turned them around

and brought them back to the pen. I was so amazed at how smart that little pup was and how fast he caught on. The instinct was just bred into him,” she recalls. “I could hardly believe what he had done.”

Unfortunately, the pup got run over. That sent Denise and her husband, Dennis, on a nation-wide search for a border collie of similar quality. “Finally, in 1972 we found a

Her suggestion paid off. One female led to purchasing two more females, including one from Arthur Allen, a famous Illinois border collie breeder who was a member of the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association and performed with his border

Courtesy photo.

Courtesy photo.

140 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

registered male in Minnesota,” she says. “He worked out very well so I suggested we get a female and try raising puppies.”

Courtesy photo.

collies in the Roy Rogers Rodeo. According to www.bordercolliemuseum.org, Allen appeared on television and in several Walt Disney movies.

Starting out, “I never had anything fancy – some kennels and an old chicken coop,” Denise recalls. Puppies born during cold weather were brought into the house. “You have to be on your toes with them,” she says.

In later years they kept puppies in a warm lambing barn, as they also raised registered Suffolk sheep and crops.

Even with three females, Dockters couldn’t begin to keep up with the demand.

“In the 1980s when farming got challenging, I decided I’d get more females and another male,” Denise says. The American Border Collie Association secretary worked with Dockters to match bloodlines. “We went to the top to get these dogs,” she says. They eventually ended up with 10 females and two males.

“Word spread that we had good dogs,” she says. “We always had orders and a waiting list for puppies.” Over the past 40-plus years Dockter’s Suffolks and Registered Border Collies has sold approximately 1,400 puppies into nearly every state and has shipped them as far as Maine.

“ As long as we are able to live on the farm we’ll

always have a border collie in the yard. ” - Denise Dockter

In choosing a quality dog, Denise says, “Almost all border collie pups bred from good, registered, working parents will become useful herding dogs.”

Most Dockter-bred dogs are black and white but a few have been tri-colored. The majority are longhaired but they have raised shorter-haired dogs for customers with cockle burr problems.

Most of the puppies go to ranches, farms, feedlots and salebarns. Others sell for breeding. All of the dogs are registered.

Puppies are sold just-weaned. “We feel they make better dogs when the owner gets them at a young age,” Denise says. “They bond to you and are very eager to please.”

Denise recommends keeping a new puppy leashed or kenneled. “Never leave a young dog run,” she says. “Never. They want to be out working but they don’t know enough to

THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • 141

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Denise and Dennis have three grown sons who live nearby: Mike and Patti, Tim, Kevin and Stephanie. The three boys grew up with dogs and taught the canines to catch Frisbees. “When the boys played baseball they never needed a catcher,” their mom says.

“The dogs would go and get the ball and bring it back to them.”

Courtesy photo.

Noting that her mother lived just down the road, Denise remembers a very young Kevin trotting off toward Grandma’s while a dog was nudging him off the road into the ditch. “That dog knew wasn’t supJangula Posthe Pullers posed to be going,” Denise says. There is a railroad track between their farm and

Denise and Dennis Dockter have been raising border collies since the 1960s. The dogs helped them work their cattle, and helped them get through the farm crisis of the 1980s.

be on their own.” They get into trouble or run over.

Teach the puppy its name. Teach it to lead. Help it learn “down,” “come” and “stay.”

“They’re just like raising kids,” Denise says.

“You have to teach them right from wrong or you’ll have trouble.”

Some may assume that border collies belong on a ranch. Denise knows that their bloodlines love families and can adapt. “We have a granddaughter who has one of our dogs on a military base in Florida,” she says.

“A grandson who just had a new baby has one of our dogs in Fargo and the dog is doing fine with the baby.

“These old bloodlines were bred for work and family,” she says. Denise is concerned that some newer genetics are “bred too hot.

They just go and go and go.” Others do not have livestock instinct.

Two most notable Dockter-bred dogs are a search-and-rescue dog that has worked in many states and a cattle dog that was better salebarn help than any human. “The dog’s owner would tell people to stay back, he didn’t need any other help,” Denise says.

Numerous dogs have participated and succeeded in trials. Many 4-H youth have trained and exhibited their dogs in shows where they are judged on obedience, agility and rally or obstacle course.

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town. She adds, “The older dogs would teach the younger dogs not to cross the tracks,” by coming up on their backs and sitting on them.

Now, Denise and Dennis have five grandchildren and five (almost six) great-grandchildren who are growing up in Grandma and Grandpa’s dog-breeding tradition. “At first they would cry when the puppies got sold,” Denise says, “But they soon learned that there would be more.”

Denise recently down a 16-year-old Water Tank &put Solar Pump male named Sam. “He was the oldest dog I had and such a pretty dog,” she says. “That

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THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • 143

Cow Dogs was tough.” Now, due to aging and Dennis’ health challenges, Dockters have only three border collies left.

as the world’s smartest dogs and they are the best!”

admitting that nearly all his dogs have been named “Pete,” “Hank,” or “Butch.”

Among the breeding dog customers who think that Denise and Dennis Dockter are top border collie breeders are Albert and Rinda Opp, Comet Ranch, Hazelton, North Dakota “Their dogs are agile and intelligent,” Rinda Opp says. “They’re very kind and very trainable.” She adds, “If you tell people that your border collie bloodlines come from Denise Dockter, they know that it is excellent breeding.”

Benz says, “They’re actual working bloodlines and Denise is so proud of them.” He says she is very conscientious and follows up on dogs she has sold. “As far as integrity and knowing her bloodlines, Denise is going to be hard to replace,” Benz adds. “Somebody has to raise the bulls and somebody has to do the taxes. Now who is going to raise the dogs? I think she was in it for the right reasons. I’ve got nothing but good to say about them. Good people. Good dogs.”

Miles Benz, Steele, North Dakota, has purchased numerous ranch dogs from Dockters over the past 30 years. “I keep two or three around all the time because the older dogs teach the younger ones,” he says,

“We have enjoyed raising border collies and have met many fine people over the years,” Denise says. “As long as we are able to live on the farm we’ll always have a border collie in the yard. They are rated

“We feel they make better dogs when the owner gets them at a young age. They bond to you and are very eager to please.”

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Dennis and Denise Dockter have raised hundreds of Border Collies. In choosing a quality dog, Denise Dockter says, “Almost all Border Collie pups bred from good, registered, working parents will become useful herding dogs.”

144 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

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Cow Dogs

Guardian dogs placed with cattle need daily feeding and care. Breeder and trainer Marvin Dunster only places dogs where he feels they will succeed and remain healthy. Photo by Jessi Donker.

146 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

5\R Stock dogs

Raising Cattle Guards

By NICOLE MICHAELS

Marvin Dunster is not always an honest man.

He has been known to smuggle a dog or two into a motel room when he's on the road selling the animals he raises and trains. But when it comes to producing honest working stock, Dunster has a good reputation.

He operates 5\R Stock dogs in Billings, Montana and has an unusual stake in the state’s wolf predation problem. His animals guard cattle at four ranches.

That’s right: They’re cattle guards.

State wildlife officials are borrowing from the sheep industry and recommending livestock guardian dogs (LGDs) be used on cattle as part of wolf management.

Heidi and Fred Hirschy were some of the first to give it a try. The Hirschy’s ranch is just outside Dillon, one of the state’s hotspots.

“I know it works,” says Heidi, who is going into her fourth winter using the dogs. “We had high losses due to depredation. We had seventeen confirmed kills in one season and that’s not including the ones we never found.”

THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • 147

Cow Dogs

Guardian dogs bred and trained by Marvin Dunster of Billings, Montana protect and live with cattle in the western part of the state. Photo by Jessi Donker.

They stock 850 calves up next to the timber in high mountain range, and last goround they lost only a single calf to a wolf kill. Two neighboring ranches are following suit, running LGDs. That’s ideal for the long term, says Dunster. “If enough ranchers use dogs, our hopes are to push the wolves back to where they belong. That is in a perfect world.”

Dunster was introduced to his first LGD when he needed one himself. The family had barely relocated to the area in 1990 when their house burned to the ground.

Dunster sent he rest of the family to town, and remained behind in a bunkhouse, tending the herd. “Our sheep were attacked by domestic dogs and since we were already dealing with the insurance company, they offered to buy me a guard dog and I have never looked back."

Reducing wolf numbers is not the goal they’re just protecting cattle with a tactical bluff.

148 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

“We don't really breed for aggression as much as intellect,” says Dunster. “We want our dogs to think and not react. The analogy I use for this is that our penal systems are full of people who react. When a dog reacts to a wolf encounter, it usually ends up dead or very injured.”

Says Hirschy, “They are both territorial and the wolf sees the dog and says, ‘This spot is taken.’ ” “In today's market if a dog saves one calf, he has paid for himself and a partner.” Dunster says.

Dunster raises five breeds for that purpose, sometimes using a hybrid of the breeds Akbash, Great Pyrenees, Anatolian Shepherd, Maremma and Komondor. He has animals with Bryan Mussard and Will Staudenmeyer up in the Big Hole area, the Lost Lake ranch out of Geraldine, and the Butcher ranch out of Winifred.

A guardian dog bluffs wolves who seem to understand the territory is spoken for. A fight between a wolf and an LDG would most likely kill the dog. Photo by Jessi Donker.

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THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • 149

Cow Dogs

This dog seems right at home with his unlikely companions, a herd of cattle. Photo by Jessi Donker.

Different breeds adapt to different circumstances. Some are better suited to larger perimeters.

LGDs are bred to protect livestock. Traditionally they are used on smaller stock. The application to cattle is new.

In Dunster’s program, each litter is born in a stock trailer and moved to a barn, a finishing pen. At eight weeks they are turned into the livestock, “never to look back.”

He keeps 40 head of cows, 100 head of sheep, 100 head of goats and about 10 mother pigs as “bonding tools” to train prospects.

The 62-year-old Dunster runs the business with his wife Carrie and a hired man, traveling weekly to deliver animals.

He credits his love of his work for his success in a competitive industry. “You have to have a passion for dogs and livestock. I feel like I am living every little boy or girl's dream.”

LGDs are trained at a young age to bond with the stock. Photo by Jessi Donker.

Dunster sells only to ranchers, but not all cattle producers are set up to take on dogs.

“If a cattle producer tells me he has 1,200 mother cows and they run on 20 sections and there is not a range rider and he only checks his cows once a week, we will not put dogs there. Same situation, range rider and cows are being checked daily, dogs can be accounted for and fed. It is all good then.”

150 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

5\R Stock dogs stand watch over a herd of cattle in rugged western Montana where cattle ranchers are starting to protect their herds the way sheep ranchers historically have. Photo by Jessi Donker.

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Cow Dogs

Tim Naasz

Border Collies

By amanda radke

BORDER COLLIES MAKE GOOD HANDS It was a cool, crisp October morning, and Tim Naasz, of Platte, South Dakota, needed to move some cattle to a different pasture. Typically, it requires some extra help any time cattle need to be herded, but Naasz didn’t need to ask his wife Sandy or his neighbors for a spare hand. Working alone, along with the help of his horse and five border collies, he successfully and quietly moved his cattle to the next pasture for grazing.

ethic. Their natural instincts to gather livestock into workable groups make them excellent ranch hands, and Naasz spends a lot of time training these dogs to be effective both on his ranch and in cattle dog trial competitions around the country.

“When moving cattle, one well-trained border collie can take the place of three men,” said Naasz. “Today, I used five dogs -two are already trained, and the other three came along for experience of working stock.”

In 1994, Tim and Sandy got married and moved to Platte, where they started raising Simmental cattle. Artificial insemination was a big part of their breeding program, and they looked to cattle dogs to help them work cattle.

Naasz was 11 years old when his family got their first cattle dog. His family used cattle dogs -- both blue heelers and Aussies -- quite extensively for working cattle on the ranch.

A bad experience with a very aggressive blue heeler drove Naasz to try border collies, and he quickly fell in love with the breed.

Border collies are intelligent, obedient, eager to please, have genetic herding abilities, athleticism, and a tremendous work

Working dogs on the ranch and in trials

“In 1997, I got my first border collie and went to a training clinic in 1998 at the Davison County 4-H Fair Grounds in Mitchell,” said Naasz. “The clinic was put on by a nationally-known trainer, and that’s how I got interested in training and competing in trials. At home on the ranch, we liked using border collies because they can cover so much ground. With dogs, I could work cattle alone. It was a game changer for us.”

152 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

By 2001, Naasz was ready for his first cattle dog trial, and it only took one trial to get him hooked.

“There were several trainers who took me under their wing,” he said. “People like Pete Carmichael, Leland Paxton, Laura Hicks, and Tim Flint really helped me a long the way to become a better trainer.”

By 2012, he was sitting in the winner’s seat, winning the U.S. Border Collie Handlers Association Cattle Dog Championship, the 2012 Black Hills Stock Show North American Sheep Dog Trial Championship, the National Western Stock Show Cattle Dog Championship in 2011, 2012 and 2014.

His partner in crime is a 12-year-old border named Ryn, and she’s the only dog to win the NWSS Cattle Dog Championship more than once.

Naasz serves as the president of the South Dakota Stock Dog Association -- newly formed in 2013 -- and helps coordinate clinics across the state. He believes anyone can learn to train cattle dogs to use as a ranch hand, but there are many things to keep in

Photo courtesy Tim Naasz.

Ryn, a 12-year-old border collie owned by rancher Tim Naasz, moves cattle to win the National Western Stock Show Cattle Dog Trial Championship in 2014.

mind when purchasing a dog and training a dog. He offered some tips to keep in mind.

Buying a cattle dog When buying a dog, Naasz said it’s important to go to a reputable breeder, where the chance of getting a good dog increases.

“It doesn’t matter which breed you’re looking for, when choosing a dog, go to a reputable breeder, and you’ll have a higher chance of success,” said Naasz. “If purchasing a dog, buying a trained one can save time, especially if you’re not confident with your training abilities.”

the parents are actually working cattle dogs.

When I invest in a dog, I want it to work. Ask the trainer or owner when the dog ‘turned on,’ which means, when did he mature and have the desire to work stock. Do your homework ahead of time before making a purchase.”

A border collie can turn on anywhere from 10-12 weeks of age to as late as a year and a half old, he said.

Start with obedience

The market rate for a good ranch dog ranges from $250-$1,000 for well-bred puppies and $1,500-$6,000 for highly-trained dogs.

At the 2014 NWSS, a stock dog ready for trial competitions sold for $14,000, he said.

“Most ranchers who understand animal behavior, especially those who have trained horses, can be successful at training a working cattle dog, too,” said Naasz. “I recommend folks go to a stock training clinic and learn the basics. At a clinic, there are plenty of trainers available to help answer questions you may have.”

“You don’t have to spend a lot of money to get a good dog,” he said. “When shopping for a dog, especially one that isn’t papered, make sure you can look at the parents and see what they are doing. You want to see that

Recommendations for when to start training varies from person to person -some start as early as five months, while others wait until 10 months when the dog is more mentally matured.

“It’s a lot of pressure and release when training dogs,” said Naasz. “With a younger dog, training sessions can only last five minutes, but with an older dog, we can quickly work up to 20-30 minutes in a training session.”

For the first 10 months, Naasz focuses on obedience.

“I highly recommend the dog takes a 4-H obedience class with a kid in the first year,” advised Naasz. “The classes help socialize the dog to be in new situations and around other people. I have found that the more you socialize the dog, the better they can be as a stock dog because new and different situations don’t bother them as much. You can easily take them to trials or to work cattle at the neighbor’s, and the new area won’t bother them. Some dogs get leery of situations outside of their comfort zones, so it’s important to train them early both obedience and also not to be nervous when working.”

Naasz said the biggest mistake people make is slacking on obedience training.

THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • 153

Cow Dogs

“Basic obedience is a big thing, especially with stock dogs,” said Naasz. “They are bred to be more aggressive and are highly intelligent. They can take control of the owner without the owner even realizing it. The owner has to be the alpha dog. Dogs are a pack animal, so the owner must maintain the alpha at all times. The biggest mistake I see people make is not being in control. They want to be pals with their dog instead of being the boss.”

The subtlety between being the boss vs. being best buds with a dog can make the difference between a dog who will work and one who will just follow along and cause problems.

“I don’t believe in using treats with stock dogs,” said Naasz. “You can get a dog to do something for a treat, but a stock dog couldn’t care less about treats. What they love more than anything in the world is to work stock. If a dog is misbehaving, I will lay a dog down as a discipline; their treat is working the stock.”

Training a dog to work stock Naasz recommends starting training in a small area, where the dog can be more easily controlled. Many trainers begin training on sheep instead of cattle as the dog is less likely to get hurt as he learns the ropes.

“I try to practice low-stress cattle handling,” said Naasz. “If the stress level rises in the herd, the conception rates decrease significantly when AIing, so it’s important to move the cattle as quietly as possible.

As the years have gone by, I’ve gotten to be more soft spoken with my dogs. The louder you get, the more stressful it is for you, the dog, and the cattle.”

He prefers using a whistle because the dogs can hear the command from a greater distance. Meanwhile, the cattle get used to the whistle and hardly notice it.

“The way you handle your dog directly impacts how the cattle respond,” he said.

“The quieter you can be with your dog, the better it is for your cattle. You want to teach your dog to be confident when working cattle, but not overly aggressive. It’s stressful to have a dog that’s constantly biting at the heels of the stock. In a small control area when training, you can teach a dog not to be so aggressive.”

Introducing the herd to the dog If the cow herd isn’t “dog broke,” there are a couple of things to keep in mind when introducing the dog to the herd.

“Getting cows dog broke takes some time,” he said. “If we’re working cattle at the neighbor’s, it’s important to expose the dog

154 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

ahead of time. The first time we go out to the pasture, I don’t even move the cattle; the dogs are just out there with me. Multiple exposures to the herd helps get the cattle used to the dog. It’s important to read the cattle to when they seem ready to be moved using the dogs. It might take an afternoon, but it might take a week. When you get a cattle dog for the first time, you have to realize that the cows aren’t used to them, and it’s going to take awhile.

The first time working cattle with a stock dog, Naasz said to be prepared for a few fights.

“Cattle are going to fight the dog right away,” he said. “If they start fighting the dog, go help the dog. If you’re on a horse or fourwheeler, and the dog starts fighting cattle, ride over and help him turn the cows. As the dog gets more experience, there will be fewer fights, and the stress becomes minimal when working cattle.”

A dog can quickly get himself into a situation where he might get hurt, so it’s important for the owner to be mindful of where the dog is and assist him if needed.

“To avoid injury, I try to be as calm as I can while moving cattle, so the dog moves up fairly calm, as well,” he said. “If you have a dog that insists on blowing into cattle, he’s going to get hurt. Younger dogs will get hurt more often. Be ready to help if they are in a situation they aren’t supposed to be in and

Photo courtesy Tim Naasz.

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call them out of it. There are going times when a dog is going to have to fight cattle, but a good experienced dog knows how to do that. With time, a dog will figure out when is the appropriate time to fight and when to back off.”

Naasz said repetition is the best form of training. Expose the dog to as many experiences as possible, and be diligent in correcting bad behavior.

“It will take a couple of years before a dog is well-trained and consistent, especially for trial competitions,” said Naasz.

“The best years of a dog’s life are between four and eight.

Dogs start getting tired and slowing down around eight, although some will last longer.”

Dogs like Naasz’s Ryn are one-of-a-kind. At 12 years, Ryn is still keyed up for competition and leading the pack on the ranch, too. Naasz has plans to go back to NWSS with Ryn to defend their title. And at home, Ryn is leading by example while Naasz trains younger dogs.

Naasz recommends that ranchers check out the USBCHA website for more information on border collies, trials and clinics. For details on upcoming trials, where owners can learn tricks for training and handling, check out http://www. usbcha.com/upcomingtrials.htm.

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164 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

Health &

Reproduction “That sterile old bull is harmless as a gopher snake. He's blind in one eye and can't see out the other. He had as much chance of breeding those heifers as a Duroc boar would.” - Lee Pitts

THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • 165

Health & Reproduction

Non-infectious Causes of Pregnancy Loss

By Heather Smith Thomas

Almost all cows “settle” when bred, but sometimes the pregnancy is terminated early. There are many factors that can kill the developing conceptus or cause the cow to give birth prematurely. If the fertilized egg/embryo is defective it won’t survive and the cow returns to heat. Many “slow breeders” and late calves are the result of an early pregnancy loss at first breeding.

Stress is a cause that is often overlooked.

There are many kinds of stress, including nutritional deficiencies, environmental stress, systemic disease, etc. If the cow is in poor body condition, ill, or otherwise stressed, she will either not become pregnant, or may lose the calf, says Blakley.

When there’s poor pregnancy rate in a herd we often suspect infectious causes like trichomoniasis, campylobacteriosis (“vibrio”), lepto, IBR or BVD, but it might be due to non-infectious causes. Late pregnancy loss is visible—with an aborted fetus or a cow with placental membranes hanging from the vulva--but with early pregnancy loss you may have no indication, says Dr. Barry Blakley, a toxicologist at University of Saskatchewan. If cows are pregnancytested early, a few that were determined pregnant may lose their fetuses before calving time.

Early Pregnancy Loss

Blakley says the main causes of loss are genetics, infections, toxins, stress and nutritional deficiencies. Losses due to genetic causes are nature’s way of weeding out defective offspring that cannot survive. These include defects in DNA that terminate the conceptus very early, as well as some abortions and stillbirths.

166 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

Most embryos that are lost die before the 8th day--before or during the time they travel down the fallopian tube into the uterus.

Additional losses occur before day 14. The overwhelming majority of pregnancy losses occur within the first 14 days, which will not delay the cow’s next cycle. The rancher usually thinks she didn’t settle because she returns to heat.

Causes of early loss include alterations in the egg itself, and in the fertilizing semen. Researchers are looking at possible defects in semen and the effect of genetics on quality of the embryo. In some situations the bull/cow combination (genetically) may lead to early embryonic loss.

Data from various studies shows that 5 to 8 percent of pregnancy losses in beef cattle (of pregnancies that continue beyond 21 days) are lost in the first 42 days. Rapid weight loss in the cow, or other stress such as transportation in early pregnancy can

lead to losses. “The biggest factors include sudden change in nutrition, transport, environmental stresses like severe cold, or heat,” says Blakley. Stressful conditions cause hormonal disturbances. Moving cattle, particularly in the first 42 days of pregnancy, can be a factor, especially if it involves a lot of stress. A long truck haul, gathering cattle at a fast pace to get them away from an approaching wildfire, or cattle being continually harassed by wolves are examples of stress that may lead to pregnancy loss.

Toxic Causes of Pregnancy Loss Toxic plants, including endophyte-infected tall fescue, are often responsible for early pregnancy loss. “Fescue toxicity hinders cattle ability to thermo-regulate, and affected cattle suffer more heat stress or cold stress, which can terminate pregnancy. In some situations feed may be contaminated with mycotoxins, mold, or estrogen-like substances that also interfere with pregnancy,” says Blakley.

Some toxicants affect the fetus—including lupine, hemlock, locoweed, pine needles, ergot alkaloids, certain molds, etc.

Pine needle abortion causes loss in late pregnancy when cows consume Ponderosa pine needles. The greatest risk is when cows

consume pine needles for three days or more, and have a high level of toxicant—which constricts blood vessels in the placenta, hindering the supply of oxygen and nutrients to the fetus, killing it.

The toxicant also increases uterine contractions that expel the fetus.

“Mycotoxins are common causes of pregnancy loss,” says Blakley. “These are metabolites produced by fungi. Zearalenone is one that produces estrogenic effects and infertility,” he says.

“T-2 toxin, dioxynivalenol (also known as vomitoxin or DON), etc. affect rapidly dividing cells—such as the embryo or fetus— causing embryonic death or abortion. There are at least half a dozen mycotoxins that affect rapidly dividing cells or affect hormones in the animal. They may cause abortions or deformities, or failure of the conceptus to implant in the uterus,” says Blakley.

Another toxic problem is ergot. “This mycotoxin is a mixture of several alkaloids that can have adverse effects on the animal.

Some years there are more problems with ergot because of moisture, temperature and weather. Ergot can affect blood supply to the uterus (which could lead to death of the fetus)

and also causes contractions of the uterus, which might expel the fetus,” he says.

“Consumption of certain metals like lead can cause several problems including abortions. In areas where there are oil industry chemicals, some of these can cause abortion due to organ damage. Certain hormones build up or don’t build up, because of this damage, or may be altered by impaired metabolism, or may allow for buildup of other toxic chemicals which would otherwise be eliminated by the body.” If the liver isn’t functioning properly it can’t break down and eliminate toxins.

“In some cases these chemicals actually cause the liver to break them down more quickly and this causes lower levels of certain hormones like progesterone. Therefore the cow can’t maintain the pregnancy,” Blakley says.

THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • 167

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Health & Reproduction “Occasionally certain molds (in hay or silage) enter the bloodstream and cause what we call a mycotic abortion. Cattle may also inhale spores from mold and get a fungal pneumonia—which stresses the animal,” he says. Abortion can be secondary to infection and stress from disease in the cow.

Some plants contain nitrates under certain conditions, and nitrate poisoning can cause fetal death. “Another concern is fertilizers that contain nitrates. Cattle may eat fertilizer or drink contaminated water.

There may not be enough nitrate to kill the cow, but enough to affect the fetus. The fetus is much more susceptible to nitrate poisoning than the cow,” Blakley says.

“Some plants accumulate cyanide which can cause fetal deformities and abortion— though often it kills the cow. Arrowgrass, wilted/frosted cherry or chokecherry leaves cause a lot of problems,” he says.

Problems can also be caused by plants that accumulate selenium, since too much selenium is toxic, or plants that contain harmful alkaloids. The alkaloids cause liver damage, and then the cow can’t maintain the pregnancy.

“A major concern in certain areas is poor quality water. It may have high levels of sulfate, which interferes with absorption of copper, etc.” This creates a deficiency in the animal even if soils and feeds contain adequate amounts of copper.

Nutritional Stress Poor nutrition has been linked to embryo loss, especially trace mineral deficiencies-even in a herd that’s well fed in terms of energy and protein. Trace minerals that affect reproduction are selenium, copper, zinc and manganese.

“Certain parts of North America are deficient in copper and/or selenium,” says Blakley. “If cattle aren’t getting enough of those important trace minerals they will have reproductive problems. I’ve seen herds where the reproduction was poor, and after supplementation with copper the reproduction rate returned to normal.

With genomic sequencing technology, we can find genetic markers for various traits (good and bad), including factors that affect fertility, such as lethal recessive conditions.

A research project at the University of Missouri is currently evaluating this aspect of reproduction. Dr. Jared Decker is part of this research team.

“A problem in areas with long winters is cattle eating poor quality feed. Vitamins that were at high levels in forage during summer—particularly vitamins A and E— drop dramatically after feed is stored for a long time during winter. These vitamins are necessary for placental and fetal development. We encounter vitamin A and E deficiencies in stored feeds.”

“So far we have sequenced 150 animals.

Our purpose is to find genes in which there is a DNA variant that breaks the gene. The gene no longer codes for a functioning protein. The protein that should be there is no longer made correctly. Either that protein is too short or has the wrong amino acid in an important spot on the protein; there is a change to that protein and it won’t work properly anymore,” he says.

Genetic Factors “Certain genetic problems can be an issue in purebred herds, but generally don’t occur in crossbred cattle because the defective genes would not be expressed,” Blakley says.

Most of these defects have to be inherited from each parent.

“When we investigate abortions or low pregnancy rates, usually the first question we ask is what kind of animals they are. If they are not purebred (and especially if they are crossbred) we can usually eliminate genetics from the list of possible causes, and focus on other causes.”

Research is currently looking at genetic factors in early embryonic loss. Errors in chromosomes on the sire side can lead to faulty embryos and higher incidence of early embryonic death. One bull’s semen may create embryos that are not viable, and the producer must change bulls to get better results.

170 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

“Most of these animals are perfectly normal if they are simply a carrier of that gene with a protein defect. If they have one normal copy and one broken copy they can use the protein from the normal copy,” explains Decker. But if an embryo inherits two copies of the broken gene (one from each parent) this situation is incompatible with life and that embryo is aborted.

“We think this occurs soon after conception. If you examine cows with ultrasound 7 days after they’ve been bred, more than 90 percent of those matings result in an embryo. But if you look at those cows 45 days later, pregnancy rate drops to about 60 percent (if those cows were not given a chance to re-breed). During those first 45 days we are losing a lot of pregnancies, and there is evidence suggesting that many of these early pregnancy losses are due to embryos inheriting two copies of a broken gene,” he says. This is why crossbred herds and crossbreeding often produce higher pregnancy rates, because there’s less chance for doubling up broken genes.

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Health & Reproduction

Do these ears make my face look big?

Preventing frozen ears in newborn calves

By Heather Hamilton-Maude

F

rozen calf ears are an eyesore at best, a marketing discount at worst, and a frustration regardless. Determining the best combination of management practices for a given operation can result in fewer sorted calves each fall and bob-eared cows retained in the herd.

“I always tell the help, ‘to heck with the whales, save the ears!’” said Sturgis, South Dakota registered Angus producer Jon Millar of the importance he places on keeping he calves’ ears fully intact despite calving primarily in the months of January and February.

In recent years, the Millar’s have reaped the benefits of their insulated 60x160 foot calving barn, and love the ease it has brought to calving season. But, Millar recalls the

172 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

struggles and management that went into keeping ears intact prior to its construction.

“One thing we still use when push comes to shove is calf hoods made from old, really heavy duty sweatpants. We make a nose and eye holes, and literally pull the pants over their head so their nose sticks out, they can see, and their ears are insulated through being held back against their neck.

“Another thing that always worked well in a pinch was good ol’ duct tape. I would carry a roll of duct tape and tape the ears back against the neck loosely with three to four wraps. They looked funny, but it saved the ears. Those cows couldn’t lick the duct tape off either,” said Millar.

Waiting a few days to tag is another component of Millar’s program that has helped keep ears full.

“I don’t tag right away if we can keep everyone straight. It never fails that if a calf loses an ear, it’s the one you put a tag in. I don’t know if it traumatizes that ear in some way, or somehow increases the effects of cold, but it seems like that is always the ear we lost, so we went to waiting until calves were a couple days old before tagging them,” he said.

Millar added that he uses a combination of straw and corn stalks as bedding on his operation.

“We use straw in our barn, but outside we use a lot of corn stalks. I’ve found corn stalks will sometimes last longer than straw. We can put out stalk bedding, and it might stay good for three or four days, where straw is only good for a couple days typically,” he said.

Certain factors regarding the calf itself can also play a critical role in maintaining warmth to both its core and its extremities.

“When it’s really cold and a calf doesn’t have enough protection, he tends to not get up and nurse right away. Colostrum is like magic to that calf is so many ways, and one of those is his ability to generate heat.

It is so important to get him up and nursing, because that increases circulation and reduces the odds of cold extremities, of which the ears are the first to go,” said North Dakota State University associate professor Jerry Stokka.

Endecott added that an aggressive mother that dries her calf off quickly and calves in a well-protected area is another invaluable

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Less successful attempts that Millar has tried over time include rubbing pure apple cider vinegar or petroleum jelly on the ears to prevent freezing. He said that he had zero success with either idea, and quickly tossed them aside for his stand-by roll of duct tape.

Bedding also plays a critical role in insulating calves against inclement weather.

Montana State University Beef cattle specialist Rachel Endecott explained that the more bedding a producer can provide as a buffer between cold ground and weather elements, the better for calves.

“I am most familiar with straw, which works great. Ensuring you have adequate straw when temperatures dip, and that it is used in combination with adequate wind protection will go a long way toward saving calf ears,” she said.

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THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • 173

Health & Reproduction When push comes to shove, Sturgis, South Dakota registered Angus producer Jon Millar said a roll of duct tape can come in very handy, and save a lot of calf ears. “Tape the ears back against the neck loosely with three to four wraps,” he explained of the technique that works best for him.

component of the ear-saving game in newborn calves.

freezing at night, they can sure lose ears in scenarios like that as well.”

“While newborns are obviously the most susceptible to frozen ears, we’ve learned over time that the risk is there for several days after birth,” said Millar. “We’ve found that calves will still freeze ears at a few days old. If they get a little snow or rain on those ears while outside, then it gets below

Regardless of how old a calf is when it loses its ears, Stokka stressed the fact that there are no associated health issues – it is a purely cosmetic thing with zero risk for the calf’s health going forward.

frozen ears, they may have frozen feet too, which will cause issues in the feedlot. That is totally false. If feet have been frozen, it will happen quickly and you will know without a doubt. If they come through the calving season and go out to grass without any foot issues, their feet were not damaged at all,” said Stokka.

“I sometimes hear of buyers at auction docking calves because they say if they have

Prior to calving season, Endecott suggested producers take a critical evaluation

Practically

any

management

can improve the odds of saving ears, from calf huts or shelters, calf warmers for chilled newborn calves, open-faced sheds and windbreaks to bedding and individual attention when needed. Anything is better than nothing when wanting to improve the odds of keeping full ears on a calf.

174 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

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Health & Reproduction

“You can feel if they’re frozen – they will have a thicker consistency around the edge, but you’ll have to wait to see the full effect, as it varies tremendously. It could be a little

of their calving area and determine if adequate wind protection is available, sufficient bedding is on hand, and what options are available if an unexpectedly nasty blast of weather occurs.

“This is something where I always say to plan for the worst and hope for the best,” she said.

“The big one I always suggest to people who struggle with frozen ears is to consider changing their calving season, but people are going to calve when they calve, so management becomes their next option.

There are a lot of things they can do, and it’s important to note that every management practice they implement, big or small, will make a difference,” he said.

Stokka added that anything a producer does to cut down calf exposure will improve the odds of saving ears.

176 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

off the tip all the way down to falling off right by their head.”

Montana State University Beef Extension Specialist Rachel Endecott on how to tell if ears are suffering from frost bite, but that total damage will be unknown for days to weeks afterward.

Join us for these South Dakota Simmental Events: January 28, 2015

Sioux Empire Farm Show — Simmental Show and Sale, Expo Building, Sioux Falls Show 8:30 am • Sale 11:30 am Selling 27 Bulls, 10 Opens and 1 Bred Contacts: Kipp Julson 605-351-9088 Jeremy Lehrman 605-530-5909 Colton Buus 605-214-3532

February 7, 2015

Black Hills Stock Show — Simmental Show and Sale, Rapid City Show 8:00 am • Sale 1:00 pm Selling 51 Bulls, 12 Opens, 2 Breds Contacts: Steve Eichacker 605-421-1152 Kristi Effling 605-769-1308

February 13, 2015

Watertown Winter Farm Show — Simmental Show and Sale, Codington County Extension Building, Watertown Show 8:00 am • Sale 1:00 pm Selling 13 Bulls, 18 Opens, 1 Bred and 1 Steer Contacts: Rod Hurlbut 605-233-0229 Auction Block Phone 605-882-6303

Watch our website: www.southdakotasimmental.com South Dakota Board Members:

Juniors watch for

AJSA North Central Regional Classic, Mower County Fairgrounds, Austin, MN.

President: SD Beef Breeds Council, Kipp Julson, Garretson, 605-351-9088 Vice President: Scott Werning, Emery, 605-682-9610 Secretary: Ryan Miller, Winfred, 605-480-3012

Treasurer: Deb Ford, Bruce, 605-690-4721 Heifer Grant Program: Jeremy Lehrman, Spencer, 605-530-5909

Junior Coordinator: Cam Fagerhaug, Wessington Springs, 605-350-2018 Ross Demers, Colome, 605-840-4188 Mike Stavick, Veblen, 605-237-4663

Health & Reproduction

Boot Camp for Heifers

By Maria Tussing Assistant Editor

I

t’s time to stop putting heifers in daycare and start sending them to boot camp. That’s the idea behind a heifer development program Jeremy Martin, a producer from Hershey, Nebraska, refers to as “a heifer survival program--kind of a mama cow boot camp.”

Dr. Rick Funston, reproductive physiologist with the University of Nebraska-Lincoln West Central Research and Extension Center, has been focusing on cutting the cost of developing heifers into cows, while increasing fertility rates and success in the cow herd.

Martin earned his PhD in reproductive physiology with Funston and is now us-

178 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

ing some of the principles he studied in his own business.

The strategy Funston has been studying is to treat weaned heifers as you will once they’re cows. “A heifer developed in an environment that she’s going to be in, on a diet she’s going to be on as a bred heifer, performs better. The heifer that grazes all her life is a better forager,” he says.

With low corn prices, the temptation is to put the heifers in a feedlot and maximize their gain through the winter. That can have several negative effects.

Typical feedstuffs that are part of a feedlot ration include silage, corn, alfalfa—nothing that’s going to be fed in a cow herd. “I don’t

Health & Reproduction

think we understand how feeding those feedstuffs affects rumen development,” Funston says. “They’re going to be much more acidic, higher in moisture, looser—not typical of what a grazing animal on a forage diet would be.”

Some producers may worry that not giving heifers that special treatment may result in lower fertility, but Funston says the studies are showing the opposite is true.

Traditional wisdom says heifers need to be at about 65 percent of their mature weight to breed, but the science says that number is

closer to 55 percent. That gives the heifers a little more time to gain weight when they’re on grass, when putting on pounds is cheaper and easier.

Funston recommends doing the math to figure out how much weight you need to put on the heifers over the winter to get them to the necessary weight, but not push them too far past it.

Photo courtesy UNL.

Another unintended consequence of developing heifers in a confined situation is that when they’re no longer confined, they just don’t know what to do. Funston said studies have shown that heifers that aren’t developed as foragers tend to travel more. “They just don’t know how to forage and they’re searching, which is taking away from what they’re supposed to be doing, which is eating.”

heifer calves so they have some grazing experience on cornstalks,” Martin said. “Heifers that graze stalks as a calf perform better as a cow. It’s mainly behavioral from what I can tell.”

Martin, a consulting nutritionist for feedlots, ranches and backgrounders, has put these studies into practice in his own business. He and his wife, Gail, run an Angus and Sim-Angus cow-calf operation, sell some two-year-old bulls and own part of a feedlot.

They’ve been using this “boot camp” approach to heifer development for about 15 years. “Part of the reason we started developing heifers the way we do is we don’t want to babysit them,” Martin said. “We don’t want to haul feed to them every day. It’s not just the cost of feed that’s the a problem, but also the labor involved.”

Martin’s program starts with heifers that are born in April and May. They use fenceline weaning at the end of October for between four days and a week to get the heifers familiar with an electric wire. From there he takes them directly to cornstalks.

“The process is really low stress. We never have the cattle confined, which is great from a health standpoint. We expect them as bred heifers and cows to utilize cornstalks in the winter. We just as well get them started as

Dr. Rick Funston focuses his research on lowering the costs and increasing the success of heifer development at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln West Central Research and Extension Center near North Platte.

180 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

“With today’s genetics we have 550- to 600-pound heifers at weaning. Figure out what your target weight is and develop a program to make that weight on resources the heifer will experience as a cow.”

In most cases that rate of gain will be significantly less than the two-plus pounds per day producers tend to expect from confined systems.

“They just need to maintain the gain,” Funston says. “Feed whatever the cheapest forage source is and supplement if needed.”

While corn is one of the cheaper feed sources available now, a protein cube supplement is probably a better choice for low-quality winter forage.

“On real poor quality forage like winter grass you can do more harm by feeding something high in starch,” he says. In places where distillers’ grains are an option, those are appropriate to supplement winter forage because the starch has been removed.

Studies have shown that cows fed ear corn while on low-quality winter forage actually lost weight.

Martin says they have sometimes not supplemented the heifers on cornstalks at all, but in the last few years they’ve provided “teaser” feed, dried distillers’ grain fed with a cake feeder. He does this because he wants them to get used to coming to a cake pickup, in case the weather gets bad, but also, “If they do get out it’s really handy if they like to come to that pickup.”

The gains on this system are pretty low— half a pound to three-fourths of a pound a day. To make up for that, he said it’s important for those heifers to have a chance to experience some compensatory gain right before they breed and through the breeding season.

“We like those heifers to calve at approximately the same size as they would in a more traditional heifer development system. We’re just delaying the gain and allowing the heifers to experience the grazing conditions they would as young cows, which helps the way they maintain condition as young cows.”

THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • 181

Health & Reproduction

One study found with this system heifers could be developed to an optimum weight for conception at a savings of $66 per head, but Funston said, depending on the situation, the savings could be three times that.

Martin said their primary concern is the cost of turning that heifer into a productive cow. “Rather than focus on cost of gain, we try to keep our total cost per head lower.”

In places where corn stalks are in plentiful supply, they give producers an inexpensive option for developing their heifers.

Photo courtesy UNL.

With the low cost of developing heifers this way, Martin said they can afford to keep all of their heifers and decide which ones they are going to keep as replacement heifers after they have developed more. “It lets us identify heifers that aren’t easy keepers and aren’t keeping condition on cornstalks.

As a result, our pregnancy rates on young cows have gotten better.”

Studies have shown the body condition score a heifer has at first breeding tends to be the BCS she requires to breed back as a two or three-year-old. So over-conditioned heifers at their first breeding may perpetuate the need for a higher level of body fat (requiring more feed resources) to breed back.

Funston said people are slow to switch to a forage-based development program for several reasons. “Tradition, people don’t understand what the requirements are, they haven’t done the math, cheap grain.

The feeding industry is essentially all about maximums. Once you lock them up you’ve got 50 cents a day yardage so you’d better have them gaining to spread that cost out.

It’s not going to look good when you’ve got all these fixed costs and not so much gain.

“You have to understand the consequences of overfeeding—you’re ending up with overfat heifers that are open and you have a lot of money in.”

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How does he stack up?

Using EPDs to compare sires across breeds

Photo courtesy Heather Hamilton-Maude

186 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

While technical tools are a valuable aid in comparing bulls of differing breeds, sometimes producers need to make a quick decision. In such instances, Beef Product Development Manager for Genex Brad Johnson suggests using ratios, explaining that a bull in the 10th percentile for any trait in one breed will be comparable to a bull in a different breed that also ranks in the top 10 percent for the same trait.

By Heather Hamilton-Maude

P

rioritizing goals, learning how to compare across breeds using available resources, and what will work when a decision needs to be made in an instant are all things that can aid producers in accurately selecting the bull that will add the most value to their program.

“The first step in choosing a bull to breed to is prioritizing goals for the program. Look at what you want to do with those cows, and what you’re paid for. That will determine what type of bull is best for you,” said beef

product development manager for Genex, Brad Johnson.

While there are excellent genetic evaluation systems within most breeds today, few of them are comparable across breeds according to United States Meat Animal Research Center (USMARC; part of the USDA Agricultural Research Service) geneticist Larry Kuehn.

In response to this issue, Kuehn and his associates have produced a yearly AcrossBreed EPD adjustment factor table to be

used to estimate across-breed expected progeny differences (AB-EPDs). This table has provided adjustment factors allowing bulls from various breeds to be compared on an equal basis for growth and maternal milk traits since 1993, when it was originally produced by Larry Cundiff and Dale Van Vleck.

In 2009 carcass traits were added, and today 18 breeds can be compared on a variety of maternal, growth and carcass EPD traits using the table.

“The purpose of the table is to make sure a producer can equitably compare bulls from

THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • 187

Health & Reproduction Photo courtesy Heather Hamilton-Maude

different breeds using the EPDs those breeds provide.

The methodology is simple – the table shows the adjustment factor on a per-breed basis for growth, milk and carcass traits. Just add the factor to a bull’s EPDs in whatever respected breed he falls under, and you are than able to compare EPDs on an equitable basis,” explained Kuehn.

There are assumptions included in the table, one being that any two bulls being compared are being bred to a third, unrelated breed.

“If I have an Angus cowherd, and I compared the genetic merit of an Angus bull with a Shorthorn bull for instance, the Shorthorn will do better than expected by EPDs alone because of heterosis, but that will not show in the adjustment factor. It is not possible to account for the heterosis from these matings via adjustment factors alone,” he said.

The Angus breed is used as the base breed in the USMARC Across-breed EPD table, meaning that each factor for Angus will be zero. In other words, each breed is compared to an Angus base.

188 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

Kuehn (email: Larry.Kuehn@ars.usda.gov; ph: 402-762-4352) and Mark Thallman (email: Mark.Thallman@ars.usda.gov; ph: 402-762-4261).

TABLE 1: ADJUSTMENT FACTORS TO ADD TO EPDs OF EIGHTEEN

Comparing sires from differing breeds can be overwhelming. However, various methods of comparison are available to producers, including the USMARC Across-Breed EPD table. The table is updated annually, and uses factors that are added or subtracted to a sire’s EPDs, allowing him to be compared equitably to a second sire of a different breed.

Table courtesy USMARC.

DIFFERENT BREEDS TO ESTIMATE ACROSS BREED EPDs Breed

Birth Wt.

Weaning Wt.

Yearling Wt.

Maternal Milk

Marbling Scorea

Ribeye Area

Fat Thickness

Angus

0.0

0.0

0.0

0.0

0.00

0.00

0.000

Hereford

2.7

-4.2

-23.6

-17.7

-0.31

-0.08

-0.051

Red Angus

4.1

-22.1

-29.9

1.5

-0.34

-0.02

-0.027

Shorthorn

6.2

9.9

27.8

21.7

-0.19

0.23

-0.135

South Devon

3.3

-5.2

-24.4

1.3

-0.11

0.23

-0.135

Beefmaster

6.4

37.2

33.3

6.4 -0.85

-0.08

-0.150

-0.67

-0.09

-0.103

11.0

44.8

10.1

23.9

Brangus

4.4

15.4

5.2

2.1

Santa Gertrudis

7.0

40.6

43.5

13.0

Braunvieh

2.3

-23.4

-47.7

1.9

Charolais

8.8

37.9

40.9

6.7

-0.43

1.04

-0.213

Chiangus

2.2

-19.5

-45.6

1.0

-0.43

0.46

-0.145

Gelbvieh

3.4

-19.4

-24.9

3.2

-0.35

0.67

-0.131

Limousin

3.8

-0.8

-38.7

-7.0

-0.71

1.08

Maine-Anjou

4.9

-19.0

-41.5

-7.1

-0.72

0.93

-0.224

Salers

2.2

-5.1

-24.6

3.6

-0.10

0.82

-0.206

Simmental

3.4

-6.4

-13.6

0.5

-0.41

0.46

-0.149

Tarentaise

1.9

30.7

10.3

25.1

Brahman

a

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THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • 189

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Photo courtesy Heather Hamilton-Maude

To develop the table, the USMARC evaluates 50-200 of the most popular sires within each breed, and sample from that list bulls with higher accuracies and whose EPD average reflects the breed genetic trend, with consideration also given to including all sire lines.

“From that we continually produce progeny – we AI somewhere around 2,500 cows a year from our sample bulls, and from that we end up with over 1,000 AI progeny that contribute to estimate breed differences,” said Kuehn.

Information collected on those progeny is used in combination with EPD information to produce the breed differences, which are converted to factors. Angus is used as the base breed, and is represented by a factor of zero for each trait listed on the table.

In other words, each breed is adjusted to an Angus base.

“We are also working with genomics these days, and specifically working with a University of Nebraska-Lincoln graduate student in prototyping calving ease adjustment factors to see if we can compare calving ease across breeds. It presents a different challenge because calving ease EPDs are not reported on the same scale across breeds, unlike other EPDs. For example, weaning weight EPD differences are equated in pounds, calving ease EPD differences are not – there are not units to tie them together in the same way as other EPDs,” said Kuehn.

Kuehn predicts that eventually USMARC will provide a web-based solution to compare calving ease across breeds. Producers would enter specific bulls and their EPDs, and the program would calculate the difference on the scale of any breed the user chooses.

“If we’re able to do that we would also like to continue producing web-based decision support tools for all traits at the same time.

Obviously the table is useful for a producer in itself, but as we become more tech savvy and look for additional long-term solutions we see the utilization of computer-based technology increasing,” said Kuehn.

Some breed registries are working together to develop EPDs that can be easily compared across breeds.

TABLE 2: BREED OF SIRE MEANS FOR 2012 BORN ANIMALS UNDER CONDITIONS SIMILAR TO USMARC Birth Wt.

Weaning Wt.

Yearling Wt.

Maternal Milk

Marbling Scorea

Ribeye Area

Fat Thickness

Angus

87.0

Hereford

91.3

574.3

1051.3

563.3

6.10

13.19

0.639

568.6

1017.2

540.4

5.34

12.92

Red Angus

0.580

88.0

558.1

1018.4

558.8

5.67

12.83

0.598

Shorthorn

93.5

551.3

1018.0

563.2

5.44

12.92

0.485

South Devon

91.1

564.1

1020.9

564.6

5.89

13.18

0.503

Beefmaster

91.8

573.4

1012.6

547.7

Brahman

97.9

587.0

1000.4

569.2

4.76

12.72

0.489

Brangus

90.3

565.9

1014.0

552.5

Santa Gertrudis

92.3

570.4

1014.0

552.5

4.93

12.68

0.527

Braunvieh

90.2

542.1

979.6

574.2

Charolais

94.4

589.8

1052.0

553.7

5.20

13.97

0.416

Chiangus

91.1

545.2

990.4

550.4

5.39

13.25

0.494

Gelbvieh

89.3

571.4

1033.6

570.5

5.27

13.81

0.447

Limousin

90.6

571.4

1009.9

554.9

4.88

14.35

Maine-Anjou

91.8

546.1

1001.7

552.3

5.09

13.81

0.401

Salers

88.9

562.1

1020.8

561.9

5.71

13.56

0.422

Simmental

90.8

584.1

1044.9

563.5

5.32

13.93

0.420

Tarentaise

88.9

573.0

1004.2

565.0

Breed

a

Marbling score units: 4.00 = SI00; 5.00 = Sm00

THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • 191

Health & Reproduction

Another potential advantage of providing the information online is it would enable the USMARC to program automatic updates to factors whenever a breed association revises their data. Producers would always have the most up-to-date information to use in their comparisons.

While incredibly useful in making selection decisions, Johnson noted that in some instances a producer needs to be able to choose between two sires quickly, perhaps chute-side while AI’ing. In such a situation, taking the time to study the comparison table and calculate various comparisons may not be feasible.

“The comparison tables are very useful. But, for the most part, you can achieve the same thing by looking at percent ranks within breeds. If there is an Angus bull in the top 10 percent for a certain trait, and a Hereford bull in the top 10 percent for the same trait, those are pretty comparable values between those two sires,” Johnson explained.

“I think one challenge to keep in mind is that a bull with birth weight (BW) EPD of 0 in the Angus breed is not going to sire a calf the same size as a bull with a BW EPD of 0 in the Charolais breed – those two are not the same animal. Many times we talk to a customer who will say an Angus bull with a BW EPD of +2 is too high, but they will buy a Charolais bull with a BW EPD of -1. If you look at the across breed factors, that makes him a +7 on birth weight by Angus standards,” said Trimmer.

He continued, adding that over the last half century or so, the genetic progress that individual breeds have made has changed the face of the American beef industry.

Keeping that in mind will also aid in making accurate mental comparisons.

Charolais, and right behind them is Angus.

Some continental breeds have given up a lot of their performance advantage over British breeds in an effort to increase calving ease and lower birth weights. As a result, a breed that may have never worked for an operation 30 years ago, from a crossbreeding standpoint may be a viable solution in today’s world,” said Trimmer.

At present, multiple breeds are working together to develop a genetic basis, and consequently EPDs, that are comparable across their breeds. However, Angus and Hereford, the two biggest players, are not currently involved, meaning that for at least the foreseeable future, comparing bulls across breeds will require more than simply flipping pages in a sire directory.

“Performance used to be owned by the continental breeds. But if you look at the data today, the leading growth breed is

When looking at sires based on percent ranks, Johnson suggests considering indexes over a single EPD whenever possible, noting that they will encompass multiple traits valuable to a specific goal.

Don Trimmer, Director of Beef Programs for Accelerated Genetics, suggests producers always keep in mind that unless AB-EPDs are being used, comparing EPDs across breeds is not comparing apples to apples.

Photo courtesy Heather Hamilton-Maude

192 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

32nd Annual Sale

Friday, January 30, 2015 1:00 p.m. MST In our heated facility at the ranch, Bowman, ND

SCC Pro 38X PLD

SCC Pro 38X PLD was a high selling bull at the Schmidt Cattle Company Bull Sale in 2011 and has been producing market topping calves. Out of a 1st calf heifer and a son of LT Easy Pro 1158, who is known for producing calves with low birth weights, high maternal traits and in the top 1% of the breed for marbling. 38X is siring calves that will surly entice any cattleman come sale time!

Sire: LT Easy Pro 1158 PLD • BD: 2-24-2010 BW: 96; WW: 806; WI: 112; YW: 1268; YI: 103; ADG: 3.06; SC: 37cm; REA:14.4; IMF: 2.85 EPDS: CE: 0.9 BW: 1.0 WW: 30 YW: 42 MK: 10 TM:25 SC: 0.1

SCC Superman 61Z PLD

SCC Superman 61Z PLD was the top selling bull at the Schmidt Cattle Company Bull Sale in 2013 and out of one of their top cows. This bull is the total package with numbers and a pedigree to prove it and his easy demeanor is just an overall plus. He is producing calves that will definitely catch your eye and will be a great addition to any herd next spring!

Sire: CCR RC Superman 0767 0658 PLD •BD: 3-5-2012 BW: 87; WW: 824; WI: 124; YW: 1523; YI: 118; ADG: 4.39; SC: 39cm; REA: 17.06; IMF: 2.88 EPDS: CE: 3.3 BW: 1.1 WW: 41 YW: 73 MK: 11 TM: 31 SC: 0.4

SCR Sir Stash 206 PLD

SCR Sir Stash 206 PLD is out of a first calf heifer, was home raised and our top performing bull in 2013. He is a son of HC Stash 0383, who was the top selling bull in Hebbert Charolais Ranch’s 2011 Bull Sale & is producing market topping calves in North Dakota and Nebraska. 206 has a low birth weight, high growth rate & along with his calm disposition, he is producing calves that follow in his footsteps & are sure to be cattlemen favorites come next breeding season!

Sire: HC Stash 0383 PLD • BD: 2-18-2012 BW: 84; WW: 765; WI: 108; YW: 1340; YI: 112; ADG: 4.07; SC: 36 cm; REA: 15.1; IMF: 2.43 EPDS: CE: 1.6 BW: 1.3 WW: 39 YW: 62 MK: 9 TM: 29 SC: 0.8

Jay and Susan Soreide Joy, Zach, Kaylee, Casey & Johnny Kinsey 8307 149 Ave. SW • Bowman, ND 58623 701-523-5355 or Cell: 701-523-1323

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194 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

Technology &

Tools

“Technology gives us power, but it does not and cannot tell us how to use that power. Thanks to technology, we can instantly communicate across the world, but it still doesn’t help us know what to say.” - Jonathan Sacks

THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • 195

Technology & Tools

Drones, drones on the range

By Jennifer Garreau

Photo courtesy Precision Hawk

D

rones are quickly moving from the battlefield to the range — helping farmers and ranchers oversee millions of acres throughout rural America with the potential to save producers big money.

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196 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

click Dealer "Dealer Double Message" Message" clickon"Dealer onthe theleft leftMessage" hand hand side sideof on ofthe the thepage left page tohand add to add side of the page to add

While drones may sound scary they are a breakthrough tool for the agriculture industry. The Association for Unmanned Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI), predicts that 80 percent of the commercial drone market will be for agricultural use, with a global economic impact of $82 billion, generating half a billion in tax revenue and creating 100,000 jobs in the United States by the year 2025.

“The potential of drones is huge with endless applications,” said Greg Tople of Precision Ag Solutions, in Aberdeen, South Dakota, who will soon be selling Field 360 quadcopters. “They can be used to check cattle in remote areas, assist with calving checks, assess rangeland, keep fences secure, ensure water tanks are full, collect

water samples, monitor crop health, collect field data to tailor the use of seed placement, pesticides, herbicides, fertilizer reducing input costs and even providing real time aerial spot applications.”

“Recently, they have also developed thermal infrared imagery that will detect the body temperature of cattle, which could be huge for feedlots, dramatically reducing death losses.” said Tople.

Precision Hawk, a Canadian unmanned aircraft system company with their U.S. headquarters in Indiana, has developed thermal infrared sensors for their Lancaster drone that weighs three pounds and measures three feet long. The Lancaster and its sensors can detect a difference in temperature of sick animals as they are slightly warmer.

“Our drones are designed for farms so they don’t need to have an expert on staff.

They are designed to be easily operated by almost anyone,” said Jonathan Pratt, Precision Hawk Account Executive.

The drone is launched by throwing it into the air and is programmed to fly in a grid pattern autonomously with GPS technology. The “plug and play” image sensors collect field data on material that is visible and even some that is not seen with the human eye. It can fly in winds up to 35 miles per hour for 30 minutes to an hour before needing to recharge its battery, and has a range of six miles.

The data is uploaded to the cloud and processed by Precision Hawk and a report is generated for the producer within a few hours, saving the producer’s time in making management decisions.

“We have been working with several U.S. universities to develop case by case algorithms and programs to meet each farm’s individual needs. We consider ourselves a data company. One of the challenges with the drone technology has been analyzing all the data collected by the drone which often requires substantial expertise and time. Our programs are also compatible with all the major farm precision agriculture software programs,” said Pratt.

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Remarkable 12 acre property with live water in a premier Black Hills location just minutes from Devils Tower and the Black Hills National Forest. Lytle Creek runs year round through this park-like venue, which has a thick stand of bur oak trees, open meadows, views across the valley. Two custom homes are nestled in the woods above the stream.

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High country Black Hills cabin on 10 acres.

Four bedroom log cabin tucked in the woods with a naturally scenic landscape. Eat-in kitchen open to the living room, a large wrap around deck off of the living room and kitchen is a great spot for entertaining, lower level family room. 30’ x 60’ shope with plenty of room for vehicles, ATVs and snowmobiles.

Between Buckhorn and Four Corners with highway frontage. $300,000.

Black Hills ranch with 1,160 acres in one of the most picturesque and private settings available in the Bear Lodge Mtns. It’s a hidden gem at the end of the road with nearly 2 miles of live water and bordering National Forest. A striking mixture of pine covered hills, steep canyons, aspen groves, high plateaus, unobstructed views, creek bottoms and bur oak draws provide an exquisite landscape. It’s been in the same family for generations. $3,480,000.

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Varied topography with open meadows, creek bottoms, high plateaus, wooded hills.

Good water resources including Oak Creek, 2 reservoirs, 2 wells plus a shared well. Scenic Black Hills setting. $860,500.

Scenic Black Hills property at the end of the road on 117 acres. A custom log home with stunning views. A three-level design with open living spaces and quality throughout.

Massive fireplace, wood & tile floors, jetted tub, log stair cases, character logs, many windows to enjoy the view and extensive decking for outdoor dining. Also has guest apartment with RV garage. $895,000. Additional 352 acres available.

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THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • 197

Mrnak Hereford Ranch 48th Annual Production Sale

Sunday, February 8, 2015

1:00 p.m. (MST) - Bowman Auction Market - Bowman, ND SELLING: 105 Performance Tested 2 Year Old Hereford Bulls 300 Yearling Black Baldy Replacement Heifers 50 Bred Hereford Heifers LOT 3171

LOT 3288

MH TRUST 3171 1ET

LOT 3194

MH MONUMENT 3288

MH RAMBO 3194

BW: 3.4 - WW: 57 - YW: 101 MM: 29 - M&G: 58

BW: 5.0 - WW: 61 - YW: 113 MM: 27 - M&G: 57

BW: 4.4 - WW: 66 - YW: 95 MM: 20 - M&G: 53

LOT 382

LOT 3136

LOT 3191

Sire: NJW 73S M326 TRUST 100W ET

Sire: MH MONUMENT 3147

Sire: MH RAMBO 757 1ET

MH 9126J DOMINO 382 1ET

MH DAKOTA LAD 3136 1ET

MH MONUMENT 3191

BW: 2.6 - WW: 56 - YW: 92 MM: 29 - M&G: 58

BW: 3.7 - WW: 45 - YW: 73 MM: 32 - M&G: 55

BW: 4.3 - WW: 68 - YW: 94 MM: 27 - M&G: 61

Sire: CL 1 DOMINO 9126J 1ET

Sire: MH DAKOTA LAD 6238 1ET

Sire: MH MONUMENT 567

Wayne Mrnak • 701.523.6368 • Terry Mrnak • 701.523.6386 Brent Mrnak • 701.206.0604 • Andy Mrnak • 701.206.1095 Mrnak Hereford Ranch: 14501 91st St. SW • Bowman, ND 58623

View more information at • www.mrnakherefords.com

Precision Hawk offers five different sensors: }}A high resolution camera capable of taking still photos and video used for areal mapping, 3D reconstruction and plant counting }}A multispectral sensor that can assess plant health, water quality and vegetation index calculations }}The thermal infrared sensor for livestock detection and assessment of water temperature }}The Lidar sensor which is a laser used for 3D modeling and plant height measurements }}The hyperspectral sensor that is used to assess plant health, water quality, vegetation index calculations and mineral and surface

composite surveys.

Drones could help cattlemen identify sick, ovulating or calving livestock by determining body temperatures.

Photo courtesy Precision Hawk

There is just one small problem; the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not yet approved drones for commercial use. Congress has mandated that the FAA develop regulations and policies regarding privacy, safety, avoiding other aircraft, airworthiness and drone hacking to allow commercial application by September, 2015. However, farmers and ranchers can purchase drones to be used on their own property for recreational use if flown un-

der 400 feet and if they are nowhere near sion Hawk offers a monthly lease program an airport. for their drones and data services. Most producers are expected to hire companies “Producers are purchasing cheaper and that specialize in the niche market. simpler DJI drones and GoPro cameras to learn how to use them before purchasing a “The potential is huge in helping farmmore expensive model,” said Tople. ers and ranchers develop a better product, make better management decisions and DJI drones start at $500 and the price of get higher yields. We believe that farmers more sophisticated models can reach more will recover the investment of a drone often than $160,000 with special multispectral within a year,” said Pratt. sensors that each cost up to $25,000. Preci-

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Technology & Tools

Photo courtesy Heather Hamilton-Maude

Select-a-bull

New tools available for 2015 sire selections

By Heather Hamilton-Maude

F

rom new EPDs (Expected Progeny Differences) and indexes, to general updates in how business is done as technology continues to advance, sire directories are poised to deliver more information faster than ever before to their customers in 2015.

Understanding what information will be available and how to best access it can aid

producers in selecting either AI or natural sires for their cowherd.

“The Red Angus breed released their first two indexes in November, 2014. One is the HerdBuilder Index, which is primarily derived of maternal traits like stayability, direct calving ease, weaning weight, maternal milk and maintenance energy components.

There are a number of individual traits used

200 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

in balance with the idea that the index will help select for cattle that will be used on the maternal side of the operation,” began Accelerated Genetics Director of Beef Programs Don Trimmer.

The second index is called the GridMaster Index, and is more of a terminal index. It includes post-weaning gain, feed intake, marbling, ribeye area and additional

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A new Preg Check Index will also be available on select Angus, Simmental and SimAngus bulls in 2015 Genex catalogs according to Genex Beef Product Development Manager Brad Johnson.

“It is a proprietary fertility index that customers will see on some of our bulls for the first time starting with our beef genetics management guide that comes out in January. It is designed as a ranking of relative conception rates with certain sires, and we are excited to provide to our customers, particularly on a year when so many cows and heifers are being retained and bred.

This tool will help them maximize AI (artificial insemination) rates in those cattle,” noted Johnson.

The way in which bulls are chosen to grace the pages of sire directories, and showcase all available data, is another changed aspect of the breeding world driven by technology.

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Check us out on the web at www.meyerinkfs.com THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • 201

8th Annual Production Sale Tuesday, February 24 2015 - 1:00 p,m Miles City Livestock Commission, Miles City Montana Selling the top 130 of 300 yearling bulls

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“Because of technology, we like for every bull we acquire to have a DNA test. That way we know more about how the bull will perform two years before he has any progeny, and we can present him to the marketplace sooner with greater confidence. Our customers in turn can use him sooner and with more confidence, resulting in more genetic progress over less time. DNA is a small piece of the pie right now, but each year that piece is growing stronger and emphasizing our decisions more.” explained Select Sires Beef Program Manager Brian House.

From the young to the old, technology has also unlocked the potential to extend the productive lifetime of a highly proven and popular sire.

“We have taken cloning technology and run with it when the right situation arises.

We have successfully cloned Final Answer, and have another bull in the works at

present. It effectively enables us to extend the marketing life of a bull, which is very valuable when the right bull comes along,” said Johnson.

Obtaining bull information, comparing sires and ordering semen is also changing, and no longer limited to the printed pages of a sire directory catalog.

“Among changes in recent years is the increased traffic on our website. Customers look at our website now, and because of that we are always trying to improve and update it. We have videos of bulls because people want to see the real bull versus just a picture.

The Angus breed EPDs are updated weekly online as their breed association sends out new information, and all other breeds biannually as they send out their new data.

A plethora of new EPDs are not expected for 2015. However, the Hereford breed does plan to release two udder related EPDs, one related to teat size and the second on udder sustention.

“Another very popular online tool is our sortable spreadsheets, which we use all

Photo courtesy Heather Hamilton-Maude THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • 203

Technology & Tools

Photo courtesy Heather Hamilton-Maude

Sire directories say that they receive more and better information from breed associations today than ever before in history, meaning they in turn can provide the best information possible to their customers. The results are increased confidence in purchasing bulls and/or selecting AI sires, particularly those used on first-calf heifers. the time when people call in. Customers can jump online, and sort bulls from best to worst on whatever EPD they want, for example weaning weight, and this is a highly used tool by our customers,” said House.

and we’ve found people who formerly didn’t order semen from us because they didn’t know their local rep will now order directly online,” said Johnson.

Heading into the 2015 breeding season, breeders have better tools and more information available to them than ever before.

Technology is continuing to change the way beef producers do business, and AI stud sire directories are working to ensure their cus“We have a significant amount of web buy- tomers have full access to every new piece ing today, and that has really increased over of information that can impact breeding the past four years. From semen to AI certifi- decisions. cates to AI products, people like buying direct, An increase in online ordering, and new customers buying from sire directories via online ordering, is another relatively new aspect of sire selection.

204 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

“From a bull selection standpoint, breeders have better tools in terms of data across all breeds than we’ve ever had thanks to the breed associations. Access to bulls is also greater than we’ve ever seen. This comes in combination with an increased heifer retention rate in the U.S. beef herd, which makes 2015 look to be a big AI year. That’s good for our business, but it also makes us work all the harder to have several solid choices for heifers that are easy for any producer to find and compare,” said House.

Heifers are also a hot topic for Accelerated Genetics. Trimmer said he gets more

Photo courtesy Heather Hamilton-Maude calls regarding calving ease sires than on any other topic, adding that he especially appreciates the improved data, indexes and EPDs with regard to calving ease.

“As genomic data has come on the scene and we’ve increased data and accuracy across the board, we have seen a resulting increase in confidence in terms of selecting heifer bulls. Customers want to know, for good reason, that a heifer bull will stay a heifer bull, and we are better able to predict that for them today,” he said.

Messing up a breeding, in any age cows, can influence eight to 10 generations of cattle according to Johnson, and is not something he wants to ever get wrong.

“I think genomics, improved breed association data, indexes and the availability of that information to customers ensures we are successful to a greater degree. It’s a pretty cool time to be breeding cattle as producers are better enabled to make an informed decision that will improve their herd with every mating,” he concluded.

Angus Bull Sale February 10, 2015 Selling 100 grass tested, forage developed 18 month old bulls.

SIRES REPRESENTED

“I tell our trainees that we get the opportunity to influence up to 10 generations within an operation, and we make it a point to never screw any of those opportunities up. We don’t ever want to leave their programs stagnant or move them backwards.

We want each of those eight to 10 matings to advance the goals of the program.

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THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • 205

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Technology & Tools

Targeting Livestock Health Shooting out sickness

By Heather Hamilton-Maude

S

hooting a sick calf has never made a rancher happy, until recently. Doctoring guns are rapidly gaining in popularity across western states as recent innovations make them a more practical and efficient option that causes less stress on sick livestock.

“I have an air pump dart gun, and I think they’re the best thing to come along as far as doctoring goes, said northeastern Wyoming rancher Mike Davis, who utilizes his gun to doctor everything from weaned calves to cows and bulls. “ He said doctoring on his 700 calves used to take three men and half a day. Now one man can do the same job in less time.

208 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

“Now, it’s considerably lower stress and I like that. We use the antibiotic Draxxin, which is expensive, but the effects of one shot are amazing – I rarely doctor a calf twice anymore. It also takes me less time because I can doctor while feeding or checking water. They are just an awesome invention.”

Gary Cammack owns and operates Cammack Ranch Supply, located in Union Center, South Dakota. He explained that the dart guns came out about eight years ago, and quickly gained popularity over previous bow and arrow and poke stick doctoring options for their increased accuracy and ease of use.

“I can spend 10 minutes with anyone explaining the product and they are comfortable using it and showing someone else how to operate it. We chose to sell the .22 caliber rifles because they’re consistent whether it’s below zero or over 90 degrees and your wife will be able to run it as well as you can,” he said.

Options available in current doctoring guns include air pump or .22 caliber powerload cartridges, in pistol or rifle form.

A variety of disposable dart options with differing cc and needle size, as well as a choice between a gel or metal collar, are also available.

Success.

Gary Cammack, of Union Center South Dakota’s Cammack Ranch Supply, said he ships doctoring guns nationwide, from Washington state to Florida, and that they continue to gain in popularity for their ease of use and the lack of stress on an animal being doctored.

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UPSTREAM RANCH Annual Production Sale

Saturday, Feb. 7, 2015 @ the ranch 12:30 p.m. CST Selling 300 Horned and Polled Hereford Bulls including 150 coming 2-yr olds and 150 fall yearlings Selling 50 Heifers including 45 bred heifers and 5 heifer calves

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“Our neighbor recommended getting an air pump variety over one that requires .22 cartridges because it results in one less thing you have to buy, keep track of, and make sure you have with you,” said Davis.

He said he prefers darts with the gel collar and a three-quarter inch needle because they don’t have to be manually removed and are less likely to go deep enough to hit bone if the animal moves unexpectedly.

“I practiced with mine before using it on livestock. It’s pretty wicked – if you pump it 10 times at 50 yards it will drive an 8-gauge needle completely into a pitch post. With it being that stout, I didn’t want a longer needle, or the metal collar that you have to manually remove from the calf – that just sounded like it would increase pain and stress for the animal,” Davis said.

Darts will fall out of the animal within three to 30 minutes according to Cammack, who said most customers pick them up if they find them, and don’t worry about them otherwise.

Many recent doctoring gun models require non-reusable darts that come in a variety of sizes, the largest currently being 10 ccs. Darts are designed to fall out of the animal without assistance in a matter of minutes, and can then be picked up or left where they fall.

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THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • 211

Technology & Tools

212 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

O u u 22 quinn, south O dakota

Instructions suggest pumping air rifle doctoring gun models 10 times for a 50-yard shot, but northeastern Wyoming rancher Mike Davis said that four to five pumps works best for him. “I would practice before you start trying to hit something with a dart full of expensive vaccine.

They make practice darts, and it’s just the sort of deal you need to play with a little first,” he said.

u Thorson • (605) u Doug & Nancy 859-3538 22 www.ThorsonHerefords.com quinn, south dakota

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“The limiting factor with these is that the largest dart you can shoot is 10 ccs, and because of that you’re fairly limited on prescription-type antibiotics,” said Cammack.

“You get into low-dose prescription drugs that can get expensive in a hurry. That’s something to be aware of, and to practice your aim because of.”

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eyes that you used to have to trail to the corral – that is a thing of the past,” Davis said.

With the guns, you can use a sedative from a veterinarian and doctor the animal in the pasture, or give a shot of antibiotic without having to get too close. "When you’re done, he’s not wild or on the fight – he doesn’t even know what happened.”

Moderate BW out of good uddered females because

Cammack agreed, adding his own bull-doctoring story that particularly impressed him.

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THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • 213

10766313R Leland Red Angus C=1 M=1 Y=1 OtherSarah Swenson, 1SD09

hour without either me or the bull mad.

That’s worth a lot,” he said.

The biggest drawback Cammack hears from people about using doctoring guns is the mindset that it is anti-cowboy in some way.

“What I tell folks is that using one of these guns has nothing to do with your ability to cowboy or rope. There are a lot of really good cowboys using them because they understand the value of not stressing the animal,” he said.

As an operation that previously roped and doctored everything, Davis agreed that the value of a doctoring gun is hard to overstate.

“We had never done anything besides roping and raising hell before. The simplicity, ability to work cattle far away from a facility, not monkeying around when it’s -22 degrees trying to rope some sick calf on slick ground, and the lack of stress for the animal is incredible. I just think they’re great,” he said.

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mgroen@mgrmarketing.com www.mgrmarketing.com THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • 215

Technology & Tools

For the

Record

Three apps designed for cattle management, reviewed by people who use them.

By Maria Tussing Assistant Editor

CattleMax • • • • • • • • •

www.cattlemax.com Web-based, both mobile and desktop versions Compatible with any operating system, computer, tablet or smartphone Automatic back-up and updates Free support Cost varies based on features selected and number of animals being managed From $9 to $59 per month Free 21-day trial Inventory and identification records

• • • • • • • • • • •

Medical treatment history Animal movement history Income & Expenses Unlimited animal photos Production Records (breeding & pregnancy) Upcoming Calving Records (cows by due date) Performance records (birth, weaning, gains) EPDs (North America) and EBVs (Global) Pedigrees Embryo Inventory & Embryo Transfer Breed Association Interfaces

Reviewed by Leslie Alexander What do you like about this software?

I guess my favorite thing about CattleMax software is the versatility of the program.

The software was developed, and is continually updated, to meet the needs of a varied group of customers. Whether you are seed stock producer in Washington State like we are or a commercial cattle man in another country, this program has some-

thing for everyone. I’m often amazed when I look at the “Change History” report, and see all the upgrades they’ve made to improve the systemEvery breed has their own unique set of date that is tracked, evaluated, and used to make every day management decisions. CattleMax covers all the bases!

216 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

The CattleMax software program includes a “movement history” feature that keeps tracks of animals when they move on and off the ranch. If there ever was an animal health emergency in our area and we were asked to provide historical movement information on our cattle, the system would be able to provide it. This would decrease the chance of us being caught up in a quarantine situation.

What would you like to change or improve?

Our original CM system (installed on our PC and not online) had a feature that would automatically subtract semen or embryos from the inventory after you entered AI services/ embryo implants. Currently the online system doesn’t have this feature.

On a scale of 1-10 (1 being easiest), how easy/intuitive was the program to learn?

I’d give it a score of 2- I probably had more trouble with the transition to the online system because I was used to the older version.

I was privileged to be one of the early testers of the online system, spending time evaluating the software on both my laptop and Kindle Fire. It made me appreciate all the work the CM crew was putting into developing the new system.

What is your opinion of the company’s helpfulness? (tutorials, FAQ, customer service, etc)?

I think the staff are some of the best when it comes to customer support. A lot of questions can be answered via the “knowledge base” section online, but if we have something that is outside the box, emails and phone calls are always responded to promptly. I also like the online classes they offer for customers who need a refresher course or just want more information on a process.

Currently the CM staff are working with our breed association (American International Charolais Association) to resolve an EPD import problem that came up after the association changed the format of their website and export files. Within a couple hours of my email to them, I had a response and work was started to resolve the issue.

What is your comfort level with technology in general?

I work in our state livestock (brand) inspection program here in Washington and use technology on a daily basis.

Give a short explanation of what role the software plays in your business.

The system keeps us organized and gives us the ability to make management decisions based on the hard data we’ve collected and evaluated instead of “she / he (cattle) looks good to me”.

It changes cattle management from a “guessing game” to knowing for sure what your cattle are doing (the good, the bad and the cows that should catch a ride to the next cattle sale).

It’s also invaluable when it comes to looking up breeding and calving recordshaving that information at your fingertips when you’re working cattle away in the field makes the job so much easier.

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THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • 217

Technology & Tools Herd • • • • • • • •

Herdapp.com Available for Apple devices Automatically backs up to iTunes or iCloud Free trial for five animals Information tracked by Herd: Animal identifier (usually government mandated) Name (your personal identifier) Sex

• • • • • • • • •

Species, Breed Genetic Dam, Surrogate Dam & Sire On date, Off date Birth date / Age Field On price, Off price & Profit Purchase market, Sale market Buyer and Seller Insemination date and breeder

• • •

EBV Index & EPD Index Photos Herd will also track any medication you administer to your animals, allowing you to delay the sale of the animal if legally required.

• • • • •

Inventory and identification records Medical treatment history Animal movement history Income & Expenses Unlimited animal photos

Reviewed by Crystal Leighton There wasn't much to that Herd app that worked for me and what we were doing on our farm. I found that it wasn't convenient for putting in the animals’ weights and sires and dams and unless you already had the dam preprogrammed in, which means even if you didn't own the animal you had a put it in your herd anyway which I found was quite a pain. If somebody was looking to use this use this app for keeping track of the market prices and animal prices would be more convenient rather then keeping track of a cow calf day-to-day operation.

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218 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

Mobile Cattle Tracker A record-keeping system provides producers with many important capabilities. To be effective however, data must be collected in a consistent manner and on a timely basis so that meaningful information can be generated.

While the majority of data collected on a beef cow-calf operation, occurs seasonally at herd workings, certain data need to be collected on an ongoing basis throughout the production year.

Production data like birth records, weights and measurements and management activities needs to be entered real time, so that they can be available for review when animals are gathered and worked.

•

real.unl.edu/iOS/MobileCattleTracker/

•

Developed by the University of Nebraska-Lincoln

•

$9.99 one-time cost

•

Download from the app store

•

Available for both Apple and Android mobile devices

Mobile Cattle Tracker allows you to collect and access cattle records when they are needed.

Reviewed by Tanya Martens I started using the Mobile Cattle Tracker app to manage our family ranch cattle. This app is based on the yearly cycle of looking after and maintaining a cow herd. I do things backwards most of the time and in my own way, so instead of starting to use this program in the spring during calving, I have started at weaning. It would be simpler to start at calving, but this gives me time to input my cow data before the business of spring and calving starts.

What do you like about this software?

It is easy to access and is at my fingertips, if I remember to bring my smartphone. All I need to do is search for my cow ID and there is all the info I have entered on her. This app tracks reproduction, culling, selection, nutrition, health and other necessary information about the herd.

Is this app easy to use?

I think it is. They provide the necessary prompts to enter and I just enter my info. Nothing too hard about it. I have made a few errors and they are easy to fix. Either delete the cow and start that one over or just edit. This app allows me to input data onsite. I'm not sure if it requires cell service or you can input and then download using WiFi. I haven't had the opportunity to try that out yet.

Is the producing company helpful?

There is no tutorial, but it's an easy app to use. They do provide an email address for support. I haven't needed to use this at all--it's that easy to use. I am not a technological kind of gal, but I can get around pretty easy with computers, tablets or phones.

I do the trial and error type learning. Hands-on is how I like to learn. This app allows that.

Looking back, I don't know why we never tried anything like this before. This mobile App works in conjunction with the program software CowCalf5. I have not purchased this program, but am interested is searching it out and finding out more about it.

We have never used program software to manage our large herd.

I think it was intimidating to us all out here. My husband and I are going to trial this on a smaller herd and see how it works. I'm thinking the rest of the herd will be done in the next few years.

With a 1000-head operation, things take time to input.

One thing I would love to see added to this program is identifying pictures. When you get this many cows, there needs to be another way of identifying in case the tags fall out. I am continuing to work on this app and entering data all the time. If I can make my life easier and have the information I need when I need it, then I am willing to try it. This app is simple and comprehensive without the stress. I'm a full-time registered nurse, rancher, wife, mom and every other role most women have. I can honestly say this is a stress free app. Try it.

THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • 219

Photo by Sharon Sussex

220 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

Marketing &

Management “It is, of course, necessary to encourage rises in the level of those competitive prices, such as agricultural prices, which must rise to put our price structure into more workable balance and make the debt burden more tolerable.” - Theodore Roosevelt

THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • 221

What do you say?

Staff photo

R

Successful Estate Planning & Succession Mean Building A Common Vision First, Experts Say aymond Koch recently bought the family ranch near Lewistown, Montana, with all of his limbs and family relationships still intact.

The Koch clan was able to agree on a future for the 400-cow operation. That’s something failed transactions often lack, says family business consultant and industry speaker Wayne Rivers.

The ranch became available when his mother passed away and his dad’s health started to fail. Koch began negotiating a purchase, but that meant satisfying six brothers and sisters who also had a claim on the property.

“There’s been so much ink spilled over estate planning,” Rivers says. “But ultimately what causes a family to fail is that they lack a common vision.”

“The appraisal process, that’s when the wheels start coming off,” Koch says. “It’s hard, for the simple fact that land is worth so much these days.”

Rivers, who started The Family Business Institute with his father-in-law, now travels the country as a speaker and as a consultant for his busy firm. He has appeared on CNN and CNBC. He is also an expert panelist with The Wall Street Journal, an author, and has trademarked products for the consulting industry.

222 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

Agriculture presents specific challenges for estates and new ownership, Rivers says.

“Ag is on the cutting edge because it is so asset rich and cash poor. That makes estate planning a real challenge.”

Twenty-five percent of the nation’s agricultural land is likely to change hands in the next decade and keeping it in the family means it is more likely to stay in agricultural production.

For example, asset transfer prior to a sale might reduce a farm or ranch’s tax liability and be an important step forward in estate

planning, but the practice can be difficult emotionally for the parties involved.

At the Farmland Information Center, a learning center for farmers and ranchers who want to preserve agricultural space, estate planning takes on the dimensions of a civic duty.

The center, a project of the American Farmland Trust supported by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, offers free advice and more detailed instruction on a contract basis.

According to the center, an estate plan should accomplish four specific things: transfer ownership and management, land and other assets; avoid unnecessary transfer taxes; provide for financial security for

Staff photo

Consider this statistic: Twenty-five percent of the nation’s agricultural land is likely to change hands in the next decade, and that land is vulnerable to different uses during that transition. Keep it in the family and you are more likely to keep it agricultural.

The younger generation brings in assets that are hard to quantify, such as youth, energy and fresh ideas said David Baker, a farm transition specialist.

the generations; develop the next generation’s management capacity.

Having a shared vision is the place to start working on all four things, says farm management field specialist Melissa O’Rourke.

O’Rourke, who works in the field with the extension office of the University of Iowa,

gets a lot of requests for heart to heart talks over estate planning. She works as a facilitator and a mediator.

She combines a background in law, education and ag to coach people for $40 an hour, or a fraction of the typical lawyer’s fee.

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THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • 223

Marketing & Management “Sometimes when I see people, nobody is talking to each other anymore,” she says.

“My job is to get them moving forward and talking. We start with ‘What are the goals?

What are we trying to accomplish?’

The alternative to working through some awkward and even painful moments may be an auction, says O’Rourke. “And nobody wants that.”

She recommends communicating early and often. “You don’t want family disputes coming up in the context of the estate and succession plans. Begin communicating early and often about what the goals for the property are and it isn’t such a long road.

You avoid building up a lot of expectations.”

One scenario O’Rourke sees is a landowner who plans to split up the property equally among five children, and let the children work it out.

That’s a bad idea, she says. “A lot of times what we find is then the kids are arguing over it. I ask people, ‘Is that the legacy you want to leave?’ They say, ‘No, I want to think they are all eating Thanksgiving dinner together down the road.’”

Another scenario she calls “Billies” and “Bubbas.” “Billy has been working and contributing all along. Bubba is on the property but not contributing much. Mom does his laundry and he drives a new truck. How do we take care of both Billy and Bubba?

At some point everyone probably contributed something, even if it was just summers home from school.”

According to the Farmland Information Center, an estate plan should accomplish four specific things: }}Transfer ownership and management, land and other assets }}Avoid unnecessary transfer taxes }}Provide for financial security for the generations }}Develop the next generation’s management capacity

224 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

10766263R Pass Creek Angus C=1 M=1 Y=1 OtherSarah Swenson, 1SD09

The younger generation brings in assets that are hard to quantify, such as youth, energy and fresh ideas. David Baker, a farm transition specialist who works with beginning farmers, says neutral ground is important when emotions may run high.

“We bring people to the table, and we don’t want that to be the kitchen table,” he says. “We much prefer a conference table, whether it’s in a restaurant, the extension office, the local co-op. We want it to be a neutral place where people can say what they feel.”

Sometimes older owners, he says, are operating under the impression they are giving away their life’s work. “I tell them we aren’t asking you to give anything away. We are asking you to mentor the next generation.”

Baker and O’Rourke say recognizing that the farm is not the family, and that property is not love, are important emotional obstacles that, once passed, can yield to productive conversations and a solid plan for the future.

Getting started may be the hard part.

Says Baker: “We run into a lot of ‘Little Johnnie’s going take over the farm one day.’

Well sometimes one day comes up awfully fast when someone’s health is failing, and the younger generation isn’t prepared. We are good and sending kids off to college. We are getting better at planning succession.”

Market trends can have a big impact on estate planning. The cattle industry is typi-

cally a low profit margin industry but is experiencing some bullish years.

The next generation might find it impossible to buy the family business at its current market value, says Kelvin Leibold, University of Iowa specialist. “They’re not going to come in and buy all these high priced cows, that’s just not going to happen. What we can do is sit down and talk about strategies.”

Leibold will travel to Missouri this winter to talk to a group of cattle producers about exactly that.

When a relative can’t afford to buy a farm outright, it only works, says Leibold, because the typical farmer or rancher is not focused on simply the dollar value of his farm. “They are motivated by tradition, by culture, by image. By the question, ‘What do you want your legacy to be?’”

Strategies might include discounted sales, assets placed into a trust, things to give a new owner time to work into an equity position.

At the institute, Senior Consultant Doug McCright, a Harvard MBA and a native of Iowa farm country, brings some insight to estate planning in the agricultural setting.

A veteran of agribusiness where he held several leadership positions, McCright was raised on a livestock and grain farm growing corn, soybeans, pigs, and cattle.

He recognizes people have a hard time putting a price on their legacy.

“They have their identity wrapped up in the family farm and ranch,” he says. “ It’s how they see themselves.”

The institute offers lectures and workshops on how to balance interpersonal, operational, and financial issues. McCright says you don’t need to be the best or the brightest to make succession work. “Reasonableness,” he says, is what will get you through the process.

“It’s an end point,” says McCright. “That’s a difficult thing psychologically for any of us to deal with.”: At Thompson Law in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, estate planning gets a makeover and becomes “legacy planning.”

Attorney Carolyn A. Thompson, who spoke at a recent South Dakota Cattleman’s Association event, is a member of the American Academy of Estate Planning Attorneys.

She says trusts are like tractors and should be built to fit the family’s needs.

When family values drive the legal and financial decisions, succession works better. “Our goal is to transfer peoples’ values,” Thompson says. “We use an integrated long-term trust to keep the operation viable and in the family.”

Back in Lewistown, Koch recognizes his work has only started. Says Koch: “I was told once it takes one generation to build a ranch, one generation to run a ranch, and one generation to lose it.”

4th Annual Production Sale FRIDAY, APRIL 3, 2015 • 12:30 PM AT WINNER LIVESTOCK AUCTION

Selling Sons of Visitors Welcome Anytime

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THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • 227

Marketing & Management

Private Property, Public Decisions

Photo courtesy USFWS.

Photo courtesy USFWS.

Photo courtesy USFWS.

By Heather Smith Thomas

As more species are listed or considered for endangered classification under the Endangered Species Act, farmers and ranchers are increasingly affected by rules and regulations that limit or eliminate the use of their private property as well as their public grazing lands.

North Dakota Julie Schaff Ellingson, executive vice president of the North Dakota Stockmen’s Association, says several species are considered for listing in her state, and a working group has been formed to address the situation.

“The group includes agricultural interests, our Game and Fish Department, Governor’s office, energy stakeholders, etc. They’ve been meeting for several months to try to find ways to be proactive and do some positive steps for these species—in order to avoid list-

ing,” she says. She and another staff member have been attending these meetings, on behalf of the ND Stockmen’s Association.

“The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service made a recent decision regarding two butterflies—the Dakota Skipper and the Poweshiek Skipperling—that will impact our state. We have contributed comments and the USFWS just released their decision that these species will be listed as threatened,” she says.

“We don’t even have these butterflies in our state but one consideration is their critical habitat—which we do have. It is ideal

228 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

for these butterflies and the USFWS might decide they need to protect it in case those butterflies come here.”

The management of gray wolves has been a struggle for ranchers in Wyoming and Montana, and other states.

Photo courtesy USFWS.

The potential listing of the greater sage grouse is a big issue for 11 western states.

North Dakota has a small area of sage grouse habitat in the southwestern corner. “There have been efforts by producers to keep it off the list, working with Game and Fish, NRCS, Soil Conservation Districts, etc. but the species that will affect more of our state is this recent decision on the butterflies,” Ellingson said.

This has implications for grazing and haying. “We were able to achieve some exceptions through the 4(d) rule.”

The 4(d) rule comes from section 4(d) of the ESA, and is most often used to incentivize positive conservation actions and streamline the regulatory process for minor impacts. As a part of those goals, the rule is often used to clarify or simplify what forms of take of a threatened species are and are not prohibited, according to the USFWS. “Certain areas will be designated for these species,” Ellingson said. “Producers are subject to penalties under the ESA if they kill, take or harass, but the 4(d) list does allow for grazing. It does not allow haying of native hay land before July 15 each year, and spells out regulations we must abide by.

It makes the regulations a bit more palatable but still impairs our private property rights,” Ellingson says.

The butterflies in question thrive in healthy rangelands, but stockmen have already provided this kind of habitat. The very reason some of these species still exist is because they have taken good care of the habitat. “It is important that we keep grazing animals on these lands because they help create the habitat these species like to live in.”

As a result of a lawsuit brought by environmental groups, the USFWS has until September 30, 2015 to make a decision on whether to list 251 species outlined in the lawsuit, including the greater sage grouse.

“We want to be ahead of the game and prepare for what might be next, to try to do

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Marketing & Management something on our own terms rather than have it dictated to us,” Ellingson says.

the whole state that wants something different,” he says.

Vernon Brown, a rancher in southwestern North Dakota says sage grouse habitat is only in the extreme southwest corner, affecting about 30 to 40 ranchers and farmers.

“We won’t have much say in it, compared to

“In this corner of the state, there is some oil impact, but for about 30 years the oil development and sage grouse have gotten along fine. About six years ago, however, our area got hit with West Nile Virus and

the birds started to die. We counted 10 to 15 dead ones every day in our hayfields. I feel this was the main cause of decline of the sage grouse here,” says Brown. The birds coexisted with farming and ranching for more than 100 years.

“The thing that will affect ranchers the most, if sage grouse are listed, will be winter grazing. They are telling us that if the birds are listed, there will be no winter grazing within three miles of a lek (an area where males gather in the spring to strut and attract females), from Nov. 30 to May 1,” says Brown.

“My dad, brother and I are in partnership and everything we own is within three miles of a lek. Another issue is that any hay ground within three miles of a lek cannot be hayed until after July 15. You also have to leave 10 percent of that hay standing. If we’d left 10 percent uncut this year, it would have been a loss of about 350 big round bales. Plus, we prefer to start haying about June 15.”

Hay quality would be greatly diminished by waiting an extra month to cut it, which would be another monetary loss.

Ranchers in his area are working with the NRCS and the Sage Grouse Initiative. “They encourage ranchers to hang reflectors on fences within a quarter mile of a lek, to keep the birds from flying into fences. We’ve done that, and also put in water pipelines to get cattle away from the leks during the nesting period. This has helped our cattle but I don’t know if it is helping the birds. Every year the bird count continues to go down.”

There are many factors involved, such as disease and predators. “Predators are a huge issue because all the raptors are protected.

If we start playing God, protecting one species, we often impact another,” Brown says. “We have thousands of hawks, golden eagles and other predatory birds. Coyotes are another issue. There hasn’t been a state

230 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

trapper in our area for at least 30 years. We have an over-abundance of coyotes and the birds are easy prey for coyotes.”

Species of concern in the eastern part of the state include the prairie coneflower.

“In the 1970s leafy spurge got started there, taking over everything,” he said. Their local grazing association gets $400,000 a year to spray leafy spurge. Two years ago one of the Forest Service people found where they’d killed a prairie cone flower with herbicide.

So now they can’t spray any of that area and the leafy spurge is everywhere. “As a result of not spraying, the spurge has taken over the prairie cone flower habitat,” says Brown.

“They’ve tried goats to control the spurge, but everything that eats the spurge also eats the prairie cone flower. The Cheyenne National Forest has about 250 permittees and 15,000 head of cattle, so this is affecting a lot of ranchers,” he says.

South Dakota Jeff Smeenk, a rancher in western South Dakota (immediate past president of the South Dakota Cattlemen’s Association) says ranchers in his area are working hard to try to keep sage grouse from being listed.

“I am afraid that no matter what we do, the USFWS is going to list these birds. Some ranchers here are working with the Sage Grouse Initiative, to try to figure out what we can do to keep it from being listed. The Sage Grouse Initiative is a working group consisting of government agencies, ranchers, non-profit and other groups that are all interested in implementing practices like rotational grazing to help keep sage grouse from being listed,” says Smeenk.

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“A gal who was doing research spoke at one of our recent meetings and told us ranching is not a threat to the birds. Proper grazing creates new regrowth that attracts the birds. The BLM is redoing their Resource Management Plan (RMP) and established priority protection areas for sage grouse. Our local BLM people are great to work with and have recommended some common sense practices. But the directives that come from Washington D.C. have no flexibility. Our local BLM can see what needs to be done, but the top people don’t

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THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • 231

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Volume 51 • Issue 50

Saturday, December 14, 2013

Presho Livestock • Presho, SD

2 Sections

FARM BILL IN LIMBO

46th ANNUAL PRODUCTION SALE!

Corn’s role in beef’s future

By Loretta Sorensen for Tri-State Livestock News While falling corn prices can’t hurt livestock owners, this is not your grandfather’s cattle market and lowered grain prices won’t have the same effect on today’s market that they would have even five years ago.

Shrinking cow herds, high calf prices, a growing range of feed options and uncertainties of the politics surrounding beef production will all play a role in how beef production will move forward.

Kansas State University Associate Professor of Economics, Glynn Tonsor, says eventual expansion of beef production is likely to be one change resulting from the lower prices. But it won’t happen overnight.

“Given the biological lag, expectations are that pork

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By Amanda Radke for Tri-State Livestock News The weather isn’t the only thing that’s cold these days. The farm bill has cooled to icy temperatures, and many farmers and ranchers are in limbo about how to plan their operations for the upcoming year without certainty of a safety net.

Tim Lemmons, University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL) Extension educator, presented an update on the farm bill at the 2013 AG-ceptional Women’s Conference in Norfolk, Neb, on Nov. 22. His comments answered some burning questions about the state of the farm bill and what producers need to know.

“If there is no action on the farm bill, we will revert to the last permanent legislation; this is because of the Agriculture Adjustment Act of 1938 and 1949” Lemmons explained. “This would mean a loss of direct payments (DP) and counter-cyclical payments (CCP). Once commodity quotas go into place, the USDA Secretary of Agriculture decides how many acres of each crop are grown and dishes those out to the states to allocate to the farmers in direct payments. He also decides on a permanent price sup-

port for given crops either by loan, purchase or other operation.”

Currently, the farm bill is in a two-year extension of the 2008 farm bill, until a Senate and House proposal can be passed for a new farm bill to be instated.

“2014 is an election year, and very few decisions are made during an election year,” he added. “Currently, there is an existing price safety net through marketing loans and loan deficiency payments (ML/LDP), as well as DP and CCP. A trigger price occurs when the marketing year average for a particular commodity falls below a predetermined value. The marketing year for 2012 began on Sept. 1, 2012, and continued until Aug. 31, 2013.

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- See Future on Page A6 -

Rollover auctions net over a half million

By Carrie Stadheim Managing Editor and Staff Journalist

on Sept. 1, 2013, and continues to Aug. 31, 2014.”

One thing to keep in mind is 84 percent of the farm bill goes to the nutrition bill; 7 percent to crop insurance; 4 perent to commodity; and 5 percent to conservation, Lemmons explained.

“Currently, the 2014-2023 baseline for commodities is $58.8 billion; the House proposal (HR1947) will cut

Over a half million dollars from producers, auction barns, local businesses and concerned folks from one side of the country to the other will be added to pot to help ranchers blasted by storm “Atlas.”

What started as a $35,000 gift from First Interstate Bank turned into $520,000 in support of relief efforts for ranchers affected by the early October storm that killed tens of thousands of head of cattle, sheep and horses across Western South Dakota and neighboring states.

-Farm bill on Page A2 -

- See Rollover on Page A2 -

INSIDE THIS WEEK

The Publication Ranchers Pay To Read BEEF TALK

VET’S VOICE

Bulls and the bitter cold are not a good mix

Now is the time to prepare for calving.

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OUTSIDE CIRCLE

Brazile wins his 19th World Championship

A8

B7

BAXTER BLACK

ALAN GUEBERT

A discussion of animal husbandry

“Rarely gather unless there’s food served.”

A4

The Cows Behind

REMUDA ROUND-UP

Hawkins back on the horse

A4

B6

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listen to the local guys. This is part of the problem with the ESA. Once the federal government—USFWS—takes over, it is all regulated from the top down.” No one at the top understands the individual situations on the ground.

Well-managed grazing is usually compatible with native species. “This is the natural condition; grasslands evolved being grazed—by bison in earlier years. Without proper grazing the balance isn’t there and the ecosystem gets disrupted. Some people don’t want cattle on the land, and view ranchers as the enemy. I think this is changing because some agencies and groups like the Nature Conservancy are realizing ranchers are necessary. There are still extremists who want cattle removed, but I think most people recognize the benefits of grazing,” says Smeenk.

Many wildlife species have co-existed with grazing animals for hundreds of years.

“When a species is listed, with government regulations and top-down control, however, it thwarts the original purpose of the ESA and becomes counterproductive. For instance, when the prairie dog was considered for listing here about 15 years ago, some ranchers who had small prairie dog towns on their places went out and eliminated them. For decades they’d co-existed, but when there was talk of them being listed, those ranchers were afraid of having an endangered species on their place,” says Smeenk. The burden of government regulation has created a fear response in landowners.

Nebraska

Photo by Heather Smith Thomas.

In Nebraska, stockmen feel fortunate because there are very few impacts in their state. Melody Benjamin, with the Nebraska Cattlemen, says there are some proposed listings, but for the most part no problems. “We are partners with the Sandhills Task Force, and also have a good working relationship with the Game and Parks Department.”

The Sandhills Task Force was begun more than 20 years ago by a group of ranchers who invited representatives from conservation organizations. Shelly Kelly, Director of the Sandhills Task Force, says they continue to have someone from USFWS,

Game and Parks, Nature Conservancy and the NRCS. It has been a great model for landowners and conservation professionals to work together.

“Ranching is compatible with endangered species in Nebraska. We provide good habitat for these species, and ranchers have been very open to grazing recommendations because these have been productionbased as well as for wildlife habitat. The strategy of rotational grazing helps health of the land as well as providing good habitat,” Kelly says.

“Here in the Sandhills we don’t have much development or crops. We’ve been able to keep this grassland intact. We’ve been watching the sharp-tailed grouse and prairie chicken issues so that we don’t get in a situation where they might be listed. Our university does a great job on research and sharing it with ranchers and land managers so we can keep numbers up on these birds.

We do have the whooping crane that comes through this area sometimes, but the ranchers all enjoy seeing them. We don’t feel threatened by their presence,” says Kelly.

The American burying beetle is endangered in Nebraska, but ranching doesn’t affect it unless there is a lot of ground disturbance. “Utility companies, department of roads, etc. need to try a bit harder to work around this beetle,” she says. Grazing animals co-exist with most species.

Another species of concern is the blowout penstemon (beardtongue). “This federally listed endangered species exists in the Sandhills, thriving in open, blowing soil. It was very prevalent when there were more blowouts in this area. Through better management we’ve healed a lot of those blowouts and they are growing grass—which is good for every other species except this one particular plant. The other plant issue is the prairie fringed orchid in the valleys. It does fine with grazing; haying is harder on it,” says Kelly.

Other states have more problems. “I think one reason we get along so well with various species in Nebraska is that our ranches and pastures are so large. This allows for

THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • 233

Marketing & Management rotations; ranchers don’t have to use every acre all the time,” she says. This is more like when bison and other grazers roamed in early years, using the forage periodically and moving on—giving the plants a chance to regrow.

“It’s common now for a pasture to only be grazed for 30 days during the year, and left alone the rest of the time. This enables it to

remain healthy, grow its roots and be more productive. This kind of rotation provides a mosaic of different vegetation height for wildlife, since some of them prefer different aspects of this growth.”

Montana Jay Bodner, natural resources director, Montana Stockgrowers Association, says ranchers in his state have been dealing with a host of species, including wolves. “We finally were able to develop a management plan that gives opportunity for ranchers to continue to run livestock in spite of wolves.

We’ve gone through their listing, delisting, relisting and delisting and we hope we are

past that. We are now in a good management position, with a good relationship with our Fish and Game—and have been provided enough tools to at least reduce depredations. We will never eliminate them, but we can reduce most problems,” he says.

“We are also dealing with grizzly bears, but the big issue right now is sage grouse.

Montana was a little behind some of the other states in developing a state plan for sage grouse, and our governor released an executive order similar to what Wyoming implemented. A lot of our members attended a years’ worth of meetings to try to develop that executive order,” he says.

“We have it on paper, but many provisions still need to be implemented. We will be going to the legislature, seeking appropriations to fund some aspects of that executive order. A big concern is that a lot of sage grouse habitat is on private land, as well as the impact that listing would have on federal grazing permits with reducing animal units.”

The black-footed ferret, as an endangered species that depends on prairie dogs as a food source, has not been a big issue the past few years. “There was a potential listing for prairie dogs, but it has not been warranted for listing. There are some efforts, however, in looking at some kind of incentive program on black-footed ferrets for landowners. This would allow ranchers to do management as usual, but incorporate ferret re-introduction and receive safe harbor agreements from USFWS,” says Bodner.

The grizzly bear has expanded in population and habitat—from the Yellowstone population to the south, and along the northern Continental Divide (Rocky Mountain Front). “The bears are moving out of traditional areas and into ranch land and recreation areas. There have been more conflicts between bears and livestock and people,” he says.

“Our ultimate goal is still trying to work with the USFWS and Fish and Game to get bears delisted from their threatened status.

The science is there, but that decision will likely go to the courts. There is a proposal for delisting the Yellowstone population

234 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

“We try to work with our Fish and Game, because we know there are activist groups that want to list many species. It’s important to look at what we can do to make sure landowners are not impacted severely. The landowners are the ones who provide the most habitat and should be given incentives rather than being penalized. Our goal is to show interest groups and the state or federal agency that will be regulating us that we are already doing a good job. Landowner conservation efforts are the main reason why we have these species.”

Good resource management benefits not only livestock, but wildlife and the land.

Yet some people are eager to list more species, to have more control over private land.

“Some groups negotiated with the USFWS on at least 250 species here during the past year. In many cases there is not enough research to prove one way or another whether we have an adequate population in certain species, so people think that if we don’t have enough research then we should list it, rather than supply adequate funding for research to prove we do have adequate numbers on the landscape.”

It’s a huge issue. “We want to make sure we are proactive, from a landowner standpoint, to continue good resource management and show that we are the reason that we can adequately protect species and still run livestock.”

Wyoming Jim Magagna, executive vice president, Wyoming Stock Growers Association, says that for several years the most prominent ESA issue in Wyoming has been the potential listing of sage grouse. “Recently that issue was preempted by re-listing of the wolf.

The broadest impact however, across the whole state, would occur if sage grouse were to be listed, because Wyoming has about 40

Photo by Rick McEwan, for Sage Grouse Initiative.

first. There are at least 1000 bears in that area, with that population growing about 2 percent per year and the bears expanding their territory,” says Bodner. A comparable number are living in the Rocky Mountain Front, and that population is also growing at about 2 percent per year.

Sage grouse in Wyoming.

percent of the total west-wide population of sage grouse,” he says.

“Wyoming has been in the lead on sage grouse efforts, to hopefully avoid listing-with our Governor some years ago signing an executive order protecting areas that represent 86 percent of the sage grouse population in our state. Even though this has imposed some burdens on ranchers (in terms of range improvements, and energy development on private lands), for the most part this is something we strongly embraced. We feel it is a proactive way to deal with these species,” says Magagna.

“One of my fears is that in spite of all these good efforts, a decision may be made to list sage grouse. If that happens, many landowners may take the position that we did everything we could. If that is not acceptable, we will have to tell the federal government that it’s their problem and they should not expect any more help from us.” Regulations that are incompatible with good land management will put ranchers out of business.

On the wolf issue, ranchers fought for years against introducing them, but it happened in spite of their protests. “After that we were able, through a somewhat painful process, to finally come up with a wolf management plan for Wyoming. It was imperfect but something the ranching community thought we could live with. The wolves had predator status in most of the state, and protection in the northwest corner. The wolves were delisted, and we were well on our way toward a workable situation,” he says.

“We experienced losses in the northwestern part of the state but felt we had the tools to deal with predation in a reasonable manner. Unfortunately, even though we can learn to live with wolves, we can’t learn to live with groups that find it in their best economic interest to refuse to let the issue go away. They keep taking it back to court again,” Magagna says.

He feels that the only answer is for Congress to do for Wyoming what Congress did for Idaho and Montana. “We need to congressionally delist the wolves.

Anything short of that will continually be contested, as long as there is a dollar to be solicited by animal rights/animal welfare and environmental groups to keep the issue alive,” he says.

Grizzly bears are another major issue, especially in northwestern Wyoming. They are listed as threatened, but their population has clearly recovered. “The USFWS admit they are recovered, our Game and Fish recognize it, and our own experience shows this. Efforts are underway to delist them, but there are groups opposing that,” says Magagna.

The wolves and bears not only kill livestock but impact them by changing their behavior. The stress of interaction with these predators results in lower weight gains, lower pregnancy rates, higher sickness rates. “Sheep producers are having to fence their sheep every night with electric fences to keep bears out of the sheep. This is expensive, hard on the animals, and harder on the range. The environmental activists don’t care about the land, and many don’t

THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • 235

Marketing & Management care about the species they are working to protect. It’s just a cause,” he says.

will probably remain alive until this species eventually gets listed,” he says.

“We also have new issues. Earlier, the USFWS determined that the white-tailed prairie dog did not warrant listing, and were sued over that decision. A judge in Montana recently ruled that USFWS had not adequately considered the science and sent them back to the drawing board. This issue

Some areas of Wyoming have been designated as critical habitat for Canadian lynx.

There is also threat of listing certain frogs and toads in western Wyoming. “In order to maintain their habitat the Forest Service is proposing severe restrictions on grazing in some allotments,” Magagna says.

“The threats just keep coming. In southeastern Wyoming we have been dealing with the Prebles meadow jumping mouse.

We were successful in getting this one delisted, and as a result of a lawsuit it was listed again. It’s an ongoing battle. The fault is not so much with the intent of the ESA. The problem is the way it is being implemented and misused. The courts are running the show,” he says. The environmental groups have figured out which judges will rule in their favor.

Efforts to find workable compromises cost ranchers time and money. “The hard thing for the public to understand is that many environmental activist groups’ agendas are so narrowly targeted they are actually harmful to the overall resource and natural balance. At some point we will no longer be able to continue to manage for individual species.” Protecting one ends up harming another.

Many of these animals wouldn’t be here to protect if ranchers hadn’t already been taking good care of the land. “An example is sage grouse. If you look at the population trend for sage grouse in Wyoming, and sheep grazing, the peak populations are closely correlated. We had the most sage grouse when we had the most sheep. At the peak of sheep grazing we also had the most predator control,” says Magagna.

“Our plan is to continue being proactive, trying to find something positive in all this.

The state is being very proactive. More recently, USFWS has been coming out with some approaches that are more focused on incentives for landowners to do things that are positive for various species before they are listed. From that perspective I think there might be a positive path forward.

The biggest threat to this kind of progress, however, is groups that don’t want to find answers in a path forward. They want a path to the courtroom,” he says.

236 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

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Carlson Rapid Effect 4008

Birth wt 79 205 wt 752

Sire: Mohnen South Dakota 402 MGS: Rito 707 of Ideal 3407 7075 A extra long herd sire prospect with abundant thickness and performance. His Dam is a full sister in blood to the $95,000 SAV Eliminator 9105.

CED BW WW YW Milk

CED BW WW YW Milk

CED BW WW YW Milk

+2 +3.2 +70 +114 +32

Sire: Carlson Right Effect 203 MGS: Brockhill Prophecy 4P Calving Ease bull by Right Effect 203 with plenty of muscle and style. 5 flush brothers sell.

CED +6 BW +.6 WW +52 YW +87 Milk +23

DOB 3/1/14 DOB 1/24/14 Birth wt 86 Birth wt 80 Carlson Rapid Fire 4006 Carlson Capitalist 402 Carlson Resource 435 205 wt 847 205 wt 752 Sire: Carlson Right Effect 203 MGS: Brockhill Prophecy 4P Sire: Connealy Capitalist 028 MGS: Whitestone Black Arrow Z101 Sire: SAV Resource 1441 MGS: SydGen Contact Deep bodied, masculine Right Effect son A stylish, long bodied Resource son from A top herd sire prospect with a superb with lots of fleshing ability. Dam was the a big performance daughter by SydGen pick of the Soo Line Dispersal. 5 flush pedigree and phenotype.

Contact. brothers sell. +0 CED +4 CED +7 +2.4 BW +1.9 BW +.9 +76 WW +75 WW +62 +117 YW +126 YW +101 +24 Milk +34 Milk +31

DOB 2/1/14 Birth wt 69 205 wt 823

CED BW WW YW Milk

DOB 3/1/14 Birth wt 79 205 wt 885

DOB 2/21/14 DOB 3/2/13 Birth wt 83 Carlson South Dakota 439 Carlson Active Duty 421 Carlson Lady 361 205 wt 914 Sire: Connealy Consensus 7229 MGS: SAV Final Answer 0035 Sire: Mohnen South Dakota 402 MGS: Mogck Whispering Wind 584 Sire: RB Active Duty 010 MGS: SAF Hi Choice 0027 Consensus 7229 bred heifer comes from the Big time beef bull from the first calf crop by Deep, soggy Active Duty son with loads of famed Lady cow family who brought us RB Mohnen South Dakota. Dam is an easy Active Duty, RB Tour of Duty, Gaffney Game muscle and numbers to match. fleshing, wide based whispering wind daughter

Changer. Due in March to Ridl Excitement 318 Jon Carlson (701) 690-7190 carlsoncattle@outlook.com Sale Book can be Jim & Sallee CArlson scarlson@ndsupernet.com robert & Angela Carlson H: (701) 563-4630 C: (701) 690-9059 viewed online at 68th St. SW Mott, ND 58646 At the ranch 3 1/2 miles north of Mott carlsonangus.livestockdirect.net february 10th, 2015 1:00 PM MST

Balancing Sales & Social Online

By Maria Tussing Assistant Editor

T

here was a time when only birds tweeted and “friend” was just a noun.

nice to remember someone (not naming names) borrowed your candy thermometer to defrost bull semen and never returned it… just as you need it to make the Coconut-Pecan German Chocolate Pie frosting (also the choice of he who shall not be named). =Susie

10 percent of the people who saw the post, attached to the name Felton Angus, and who got to know the Feltons just a little bit better because of it. “I talk to people all the time who don’t push ‘like’ or comment, but they’re following along anyway,” Jim says.

Sounds like the perfect marketing opportunity.

That touch of humor and personal perspective that many can relate to sets their Facebook page apart from many businesses that view it as strictly a marketing opportunity.

That’s what Felton Angus Ranch thought.

This registered Angus operation with ranches in Sprindale and Miles City, Montana, was started in 1952, but joined the social media universe in December of 2009.

“A lot of people use it to just promote, promote, promote. We do that too, but we bring people into our private lives. I’m always talking hunting on there. We just basically share what’s going on,” Jim says.

The Facebook platform is a two-way street. When someone sees a post from Feltons in their news feed, it may remind them that they’ve been meaning to find out when the next bull sale is. Rather than venture into the internet search world, or pick up the phone, they can comment on that post with their question. Jim can reply and in less time than it would take to dial a phone, their question is answered.

Jim Felton, the third generation on the ranch, said his wife, Susie, got them started on Facebook about the time they got married. Now Jim does most of the posting, frequently from the seat of a tractor, fourwheeler or grain truck.

The 3,000 people who have “liked” their page seem to also like what they’re doing with their page.

Now, with Twitter, Facebook, Google+, LinkedIn, social media is like a different, parallel universe, where everyone can put their best foot forward.

Susie does occasionally chime in, like with this post from Thanksgiving: Always

Susie’s post about her missing candy thermometer attracted 64 “likes” and 12 comments. That’s about 80 people who cared enough about the post to push buttons to show that. That’s probably less than

238 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

“They request bull sale catalogs, ask questions about our cattle, want bull sale information. We’ve used it to help find places for people to stay if they come to the sale.”

Making sure those questions get answered quickly is an important part of success, though. Felton posts two or three times a day, but with his smartphone can respond to messages and posts anytime.

While Jim doesn’t mind sharing his personal views and anecdotes on the business page, he has a few guidelines. “I try to stay away from hot-button political issues. I try not to post anything that would offend people. In this day and age people are offended by anything. It’s probably about impossible to not do it.” But he tries.

Jim says people seem to respond best to his photos and videos. “I take a lot of videos with my iPhone. Moving cows or baling hay or loading and unloading trucks. I can bust out a 50-second video and put it on Facebook. People tune in to what we’ve got cooking.”

People also seem to like his stories.

They range from rounding up cattle on the reservation to dealing with wolves to errors in judgment in college. “I constantly get requests for stories, but I’m not that old. I don’t have that many stories.”

February 22, 1 p.m.

Saturday, February 28,2014 2015 ••1:00 P.M.CST CST

February 22, 2014 • 1 p.m. CST

Worthing, South Dakota • Sioux Falls Regional Livestock

SELLING: 130 Registered Angus Bulls, 100 Registered Angus Females

Worthing, South Dakota • Sioux Falls Regional Livestock

Feltons view social media as bonus advertising. “It’s really the cheapest form of advertising for your operation, in my opinion,” Jim says. While he says most of their followers are probably under 50, he says he does see some older ranchers following along.

SELLING: 130 Registered Angus Bulls, 100 Registered Angus Females

Feltons still use print ads to promote their sales and bulls, and they are featured on American Rancher on RFD-TV, which has contributed to their social media success. They also have an up-to-date website, and Susie occasionally blogs at www. montanarancher.com. Feltons are also on Pinterest and Twitter, though Facebook is their primary method of interacting with their customers on social media.

“We’ve gotten a lot of coverage without it costing us anything. It’s kind of a nobrainer,” Jim says.

PA SAFEGUARD 021 FULL POWER 1208

Selling Sons and and Calved15 02/14/11 • Daughters AAA +16981588 5 Full Brothers! Breed leader for CED +10 BW +.4 WW+66 birth weight, growth, carcass traits, +112 Out MILK +47best $B cow +116at andYW docility. of our Peterson Angus!

PA TOOL 2500 9108 PAPOWER FORTITUDE

Selling 2512/15/11 Sons and•Daughters.

Calved AAA 17418539 Breed-leader for calving ease, CEDcarcass +11 BW -1.4andWW+65 growth, traits, docility.

YW +120 MILK . +27 $B +124

PETERSON ANGUS

Brandon and Becky Peterson 605.214.3589 47633 303rd St. Alcester, SD 57001

www.petersonangus.com

PAFREE SAFEGUARD 021NEBRASKA, SOUTH DAKOTA, PA POWER 9108 DELIVERY TO IOWATOOL & MONTANA Selling 15 Sons and Daughters and Selling 25 Sons and Daughters.

THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • 239 5 Full Brothers! Breed leader for Breed-leader for calving ease,

All Atwitter: A Social Media Vocabulary Lesson Social media vocabulary isn’t all that different from ranching vocabulary. In fact, it uses a lot of the same words. The meanings, however, should not be confused.

authenticity

Social Media: Used to describe "real" people behind blog posts and other social profiles.

Ranching: What sets apart the people with calluses on their hands from the people who are photographed with their chaps on backward and spurs upside-down.

engage

Social media: To communicate with other social media users.

Ranching: To put in gear.

follow

Social media: To click a button to show a business page that you like them and are interested in what they have to say.

Ranching: What you hope the cows do with the cake pickup.

friend

Social media: (verb) To connect with another person on Facebook.

Ranching: Someone you call when you need help pulling a calf at 2 a.m.

hashtag

Social media: A word or string of characters that starts with a number sign. Identical hashtags are then grouped into a search thread.

Ranching: A pound sign

influence

Ranching: Something you don’t want to be under when you get pulled over for speeding.

Social media: An individual's importance online.

meme

Social media: (pronounced meem) a humorous image, video, piece of text, etc. that is copied (often with slight variations) and spread rapidly by Internet users Ranching: What your toddler says when you ask who wants to ride with daddy.

platform

Social media: A system that manages content. Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn – all platforms.

Ranching: What you stand on to reach over the side of the alleyway to administer vaccine.

search engine optimization (SEO)

Social media: The process of organizing your website to give it the best chance of appearing near the top of search engine rankings.

Ranching: What you have to do when you drop a wrench in the tractor engine.

240 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

status update

Social media: On Facebook, a statement (any length) that shares your thoughts with your friends or followers.

Ranching: What your wife requests so she knows how long she’ll have to wait supper.

traffic

Social media: Visitors to a website Ranching: Something people in cities complain about.

tag

Social media: Words that indicate or label what content is about. On Facebook, it identifies a person in a photo or status update.

Ranching: To put an identifying eartag in an animal.

tweet

Social media: To share a thought on Twitter with 140 characters or less—including spaces.

Ranching: The racket birds make in the morning.

viral Social media: Anything shared across social networks that gets passed along rapidly.

Ranching: A type of infection you vaccinate and pray against.

The Cost of Facebook While studies and experience like the Feltons’ have shown that people respond best to nonsales-related posts, in January 2015, Facebook is giving business owners another reason to keep their posts friendly and personal. According to a press release from Facebook, they will be cutting down on the number of blatantly promotional posts users see from businesses. The types of posts that will be reduced in news feeds are

Though there are no out-of-pocket costs, it does take an investment of time and attention to keep social media channels current and to stay up on the changes in the platforms.

Facebook has paid options that can increase the number of people who see posts. It has changed from a site for people to share the details of their day—baby pictures, job changes, what they had for lunch—to a valuable marketing tool for businesses.

But simply hitting “like” on a business page won’t guarantee you’ll see the updates that business posts. Facebook measures how much you interact with a business page and continues to show you content from the pages you interact with the most, or the ones that pay Facebook to show you those posts. If you like Felton’s page, and never click “like” or comment on a status, in a short while you probably won’t see any Felton posts unless you go to their page.

• 7’ high and 24’ long • 8’ long legs for added stability (4 ft each side) • 2 3/8 pipe frame with 2 7/8 removable legs • Galvanized metal sheeting • Chain latch system allows for terrain *Windbreak Tin Also Available*

Posts that solely push people to buy a product or install an app

•

Posts that push people to enter promotions and sweepstakes with no real context

•

Posts that reuse the exact same content from ads

According to Facebook, this change is being driven by user preferences. People don’t like to see promotional posts disguised as status updates. It also helps Facebook by generating income from posts that would otherwise have been free. However, they said it shouldn’t greatly affect most businesses that don’t limit their posts to those types of promotions.

Pages that pay a small amount, starting at $5, can guarantee a certain number of people will see their “promoted post” on Facebook.

The payment gives that post a higher priority when Facebook is sorting through which posts it thinks people will care about.

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THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • 241

il rAm Bu g o r P Breeding t And integritY. en ! commitm ou Can Count On!!

Y Genetics rAm eBSuiinltceo 1nu9i4l7t on B g n PrLoignePO rogtreAgm ding d ritY. n i BreeB e e d r ent An in d integritY. toAun mitm itmenC nt On!!! t On!!! comSc m n a m C PerformAnce o Yo:u85 elling CounteSted Geneticesnetices SYionuceC1a9n47 BinullS Gine OnYeArling roduction Ale ce 1947 L S e n O e 20 toPLiennd YeArling heiferS th nnuAl tueSdAY, mArch 11, 2014 Selling 8 Young red cowS — APril 1 cAlveS : 85 PBerformAnce teSted At the ranch located 1/2 mile south of Willow Creek, Mont. *Free delivery for first 1,000 miles on purchases totaling $5,000 or more S elling : 85 P erformAnce teSted YeArling BullS Production SAle View pedigrees, pictures and videos at www.cooperherefords.com eArlinghB ullS YYeArling eiferS roduction Ale 20 toP end OthER SiRES REpRESEntED: tueSdAY , mArch 11, 2014 20 toP eCend— eArling heiferS red cowS Pril YW 1 cAlveS Sire 8 Young B BWYA WW MM M&G reA MArB ttheueSdAY , milemsouth Arch 2014 At ranch located 1/2 of Willow11, Creek, Mont. *Free delivery for first 1,000 miles on purchases totaling $5,000 CL 1 Domino 042X8 1eTY {DLF,HYF,ieF} 5.4 c -0.2 50 —76A Pril 41 or more 66cAlveS -0.25 0.01 oung B red owS 1 View pedigrees, pictures and videos at www.cooperherefords.com

48th AnnuAl

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S 48 48thAAnnuAl P S

49th Annual Production sale

CL 1 Domino 0130X 1eT {DLF,HYF,ieF} 1.5 2.3 56 103 41 0.26 0.11 At the ranch located 1/2 mile south of Willow Creek, Mont. *Free delivery for first 1,000 miles on purchases totaling70$5,000 or more

OthER SiRES REpRESEntED: CL 1 Domino 144YView 1eT {DLF,HYF,ieF} 0.5 and 2.6 videos 56 pedigrees, pictures Ce BW WW 2.2 YW MM CL 1 Domino 186Y 1eT {DLF,HYF,ieF} 0.8 52

90 33 61 0.38 0.00 at www.cooperherefords.com

Tuesday, March 10, 2015 firSt

At the ranch

Sire

CL 1 Domino 042X 1eT {DLF,HYF,ieF}

M&G 87

reA 48

MArB 74

0.20

104

42

0.01

0.53

SiRES76REpRESEntED: 5.4 OthER -0.2 50 41 66 -0.25

CL 1 Domino 1108Y 1eT {DLF,HYF,ieF}

2.5

4.0

68

76

YW70 MM M&G reA SonS CL 1 DominoSire 0130X 1eT {DLF,HYF,ieF} 1.5 2.3 Ce56 BW 103 WW 41 0.26 0.11 CL 1 Domino 1131Y 1eT {DLF,HYF,ieF} 4.2 2.3 59 91 37 66 0.23 ! l CL 1 Domino 042X 1eT {DLF,HYF,ieF} 5.4 -0.2 50 76 41 66 -0.25 CL 1 Domino 144Y 1eT {DLF,HYF,ieF} 0.5 2.6 56 90 33 61 0.38 0.00 l e S CL 1 Domino 1161Y {DLF,HYF,ieF} 3.6 -0.2 50 87 35 60 0.32 CL 1 Domino 1eT {DLF,HYF,ieF} 0.8 2.2 1.552 87 74 0.20 -0.26 CL186Y 1 Domino 0130X 1eT {DLF,HYF,ieF} 2.3 5648 103Montana 41 70 0.26 t located 1/2 mile of Willow Creek, firSAHA HH Advancesouth 1087Y eT {DLF,HYF,ieF} 2.0 3.2 57 90 25 54 0.26 CL 1 Domino 1108Y 1eT {DLF,HYF,ieF} 2.5 4.0 68 104 42 76 0.53 -0.21

CL 1 Domino 144Y 1eT {DLF,HYF,ieF} nS •EPD SoGE CL 1 Domino 929W {CHB}{DLF,HYF,ieF} CL 1 Domino 1eT {DLF,HYF,ieF} 4.2 2.3 CL1131Y 1 Domino 186Y 1eT {DLF,HYF,ieF} ! ellfirSt S 1 Domino 994W 1eT {CHB}{DLF,HYF,ieF} CL 1 DominoCL1161Y {DLF,HYF,ieF} 3.6 -0.2 CL 1 Domino 105Y CL 1 Domino 1108Y 1eT {DLF,HYF,ieF} nS HH AdvanceHH Top selling bull in our 2012 production sale at $160,000.

Advance 0118X {DLF,HYF,ieF} 2.0 AHA So105Y 1087Y eT {DLF,HYF,ieF} 3.2

0.5 1.3 0.859 -0.6 50 2.5 2.1 57 4.2 5.6 51 3.6

2.6 4.2 2.291 4.7 87 4.0 2.7 90 2.3 1.0 90 -0.2

56 51 5237 57 35 68 46 25 59 57 36 50

90 90 8766 9560 104 6154 91 9562 87

33 36 0.23 48 33 0.32 42 30 0.26 37 40 0.22 35

61 62

0.38 0.22 0.20 0.53 0.53 0.23 0.23 0.40 0.32

-0.26 -0.21

MArB

0.33 0.01 -0.01 0.11 -0.11 0.00 0.18 -0.26 0.08 -0.21 -0.10 0.33 0.07 -0.01

Selling: 85 Performance Tested Yearling Bulls S ! Heifers • 10 Bred Cows 20 Yearling CL 1 Domino 105Y

CL 1 Domino 1131Y 1eT {DLF,HYF,ieF} combines flawless phenotype, superb calving GE ease•EPD and generations L1 Domino 175e {CHB}{DLF,HYF,ieF} l CL 1 DominoGB929W {CHB}{DLF,HYF,ieF} 1.3 4.2 elbreed of maternal cow power. An outstanding set of sons sell with CL 1 Domino 1161Y {DLF,HYF,ieF} CL 1 Domino 994W 1eT {CHB}{DLF,HYF,ieF} -0.6 4.7 leading genetics.

AHA

57

95

33

62

0.53

0.33 74

62 -0.01 76

53 -0.11 66

68 0.18 60

0.08

54 0.26 -0.11 61 30 $5,000 53 0.23 or -0.10 *Free delivery for first 1,000 miles on purchases totaling more.

4.295 5140 9068 36 62 0.22 0.18 0.40 0.07 4.7 57 95 33 62 0.53 0.08 View pedigrees, CL 1 Domino 105Ypictures and videos at www.cooperherefords.com HH Advance 1087Y eT {DLF,HYF,ieF}

2.0

3.2

2.7

46

61

30

53

0.23

-0.10

GB L1 Domino 175e {CHB}{DLF,HYF,ieF}

5.6

1.0

57

95

40

68

0.40

0.07

Top selling 2012 production sale HH Advance 0118X {DLF,HYF,ieF} 2.1 2.7 46 •EPDMARB CE bull BWin ourWW YW MMat $160,000.

M&G 105Y REA GE CL 1 Domino 929W {CHB}{DLF,HYF,ieF} 1.357 combines superb GB L1 Domino 175e {CHB}{DLF,HYF,ieF} 5.6 1.0 6.3 flawless -0.1 phenotype, 50 87 calving 47 ease and 71generations 0.23 0.15 of maternal cow power. An outstanding set of sons sell with breed CL 1 Domino 994W 1eT {CHB}{DLF,HYF,ieF} -0.6 leading genetics.

Top selling 2012 production sale atREA $160,000.

105Y HH Advance 0118X {DLF,HYF,ieF} 2.1 CE BW bull WWin our YW MM M&G MARB

combines 6.3 -0.1

flawless superb calving ease 50 phenotype, 87 47 71 0.23and generations 0.15 of maternal cow power. An outstanding set of sons sell with breed leading genetics.

CE 6.3

BW -0.1

WW 50

YW 87

MM 47

M&G 71

REA 0.23

57

90

25

MARB 0.15

herefordS... Making Black Better!

herefordS ... Making Black Better!

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Markand andCristy CristyBuilt onDave Dave Kelsy teSting & m AternAl trAitS andand Kelsy :P erformAnce MarkMark and Cristy Dave and Kelsy Mark cell 406-539-6885 Dave cell 406-570-5519 cell 406-539-6885 Dave cell 406-570-5519 MarkMark cell 406-539-6885 Dave cell 406-570-5519 focuSing on: cAlving eASe, fertilitY, cArcASS trAitS And diSPoSition P.O. Box 126 • Willow Creek, MT 59760 406-285-6985 Office • info@cooperherefords.com

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Office (605) 859-2568 Mark Buchholz (605) 685-5975 Kent Buchholz (605) 441-4842

Red Angus Factory of the North Cattle that perform in mother nature’s toughest conditions.

16th Annual Production Sale Wed.

February 18, 2015

75 Bulls • 60 Yearling Heifers • 15 Bred Heifers Selling at the Ranch, Powers Lake, ND • 1:00 p.m. CST

Herd Sire - Feddes Big Horn Z150 Reg. #1516301

Herd Sire - SSS Twilight 457Z Reg. #CAN1713752

Herd Sire - Feddes Gallatin Z113 Reg. # - 1516448

Herd Sire -Red Lazy Cowboy 26X Reg. #CAN1583567

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Herd Sire - PIE Code Red 199 Reg. #1483973

Barenthsen Angus d e R Bullinger Mark and Kathy Barenthsen & Family 701-464-5741 mkbar@nccray.com Jeremy and Jessica Bullinger & Family 701-464-4893 jbullinger@nccray.net

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Where the genetics makes the difference Mark your calendar for DCR Dakota Pride To Sell:

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Breeding performance Charolais since the 60’s, Selling Charolais bulls since the 70’s Hosting annual production sales for over 30 years.

Crook Mt. Angus Wilson, James 20444 Crook Mt. Road Whitewood, SD 57793 605-269-2360

Edgar Brothers Edgar, Dick 16619 367 St. Rockham, SD 57470 605-472-0841

Gimbel Angus Gimbel, Delton 19390 350 Ave. Ree Heights, SD 57371 605-943-5529

Ingalls Centennial Angus Ingalls, Hugh & Eleanor 16801 Stoneville Rd Faith, SD 57626 605-748-2277

Dahl Angus Dahl, Larry 46940 189th St Estelline, SD 57234 605-873-2847

Erdmann Angus Farm Erdmann, Albert 1233 Church St Leola, SD 57456

Gimbel, Mandy 19391 349th Ave Ree Heights, SD 57371 605-943-5650

Hurlbut Cattle Hurlbut, Dustin 17169 416th Ave Raymond, SD 57258 605-380-8052

Dahl, Jason & Karlia 46918 190th St Estelline, SD 57234 605-676-2441 4dlivestock@itctel.com

Erdmann Angus Ranch Erdmann, Dan & Anne Jo 10891 361st Ave Leola, SD 57456 605-439-3744

Grandview Angus Lewis, Dan 2906 W. Omaha #2 Rapid City, SD 57702 605-343-0381

Deep Creek Angus Gabriel, T.J. & Jeanine 20004 Manilla Rd Midland, SD 57552 605-567-3327

Fix, Jeff & Marie 39494 County Dr. Bath, SD 57247 605-228-9668

Hansen Family Angus Hansen, Jordan 17650 393 Ave Redfield, SD 57469

Iron Mountain Cattle Co. Long, Daniel 16860 Iron Mountain Ln. Belle Fourche, SD 57717 605-892-2039

DeMers Ranch DeMers, Ron, Ross & Keith 31846 284th St Colome, SD 57528 605-842-3340 rkdemers@gwtc.net

Hart Farms Hart, Brad & Kerry 38704 107th St Frederick, SD 57441 605-329-2645

JK Angus Kapperman, Jeff & Susan 25831 454th Ave Montrose, SD 57048 605-940-5104 jkangus@siouxvalley.net

C & M Cattle Tollefson, Chuck 42034 165 St. Clark, SD 57225 605-532-3917

Forgey Angus Ranch Forgey, Dan 32766 301st St. Dallas, SD 57529 605-830-5990 lynforgey@hotmail.com

Dikoff Angus Ranch Dikoff, Rodney & Linda 33781 SD Hwy 20 Onaka, SD 57466 605-447-5851

Foxs Angus Farms 45894 US Hwy 212 Watertown, SD 57201 605-886-6704

HillsView Ranch 21458 Elk Vale Road Sturgis, SD 57885 605-923-5053 hillsviewranch@aol.com

Johnson-Rose Angus Ranch Johnson, Stuart P.O. Box 117 Little Eagle, SD 57639 605-845-3221

Callies Farms Callies Family 43836 235th St Howard, SD 57349 605-772-4888

Eagle Pass Ranch Munger, Steve 34261 200th St Highmore, SD 57345 605-229-2802

Gant Angus & Hereford Gant, Mark & Dennis 37195 285th St Geddes, SD 57342 605-337-2340

Hilltop Angus Farm Eisenbeisz, Blake & Morris PO Box 251 Bowdle, SD 57428 605-285-6741

Kammerer Livestock Kammerer, Matt 22196 Elk Vale Road Rapid City, SD 57701 605-923-6381

Amdahl Angus Amdahl, Tim & Marcia 41965 SD Hwy 38 Fulton, SD 57340 605-996-1441 timamdahl@yahoo.com

Bruns Angus Ranch Bruns, Dan 22843 452nd Ave Madison, SD 57042 605-256-2473

Anderson Angus Anderson, Jim 46970 252nd St Baltic, SD 57003 605-529-5637 anderson@alliancecom.net

Bunker Cattle Co. Bunker, Brad 716 West Hickory St. Arlington, SD 57212 605-530-6404

Assmus Angus Assmus, JR 25875 386th Ave Plankinton, SD, 57368 605-732-4501 jrlassmus@midstatesd.net

Bush Angus Bush, Jim & Scott 41785 109th St Britton, SD 57340 605-448-5401

Auch, Gary & Julie 43174 294th St Lesterville, SD 57040 605-364-7371

Bussmus Angus Bussmus, Gary 24973 404th Ave Mitchell, SD 57301 605-996-3265

Baker's Lemar Angus Baker, Leo 11440 Angus Lane St. Onge, SD 57779 605-642-5793

Carter, Dustin 4424 E Main St Vermillion, SD 57069

Black Ink Farms Fink, Herman & Don 39923 SD Hwy 44 Armour, SD 57313 605-779-5341 Borns Angus Borns, Steve 44368 175th St Hazel, SD 57242 605-886-7487

Hyland Angus Hyland, Ricky 22337 455th Ave Ramona, SD 57054 605-480-3154

Kopriva Angus Kopriva, Jim & Lee 41577 169th St Raymond, SD 57258 605-532-5689

Mertens Cattle Co. Mertens, Jim 15197 477th Ave. Milbank, SD 57252 605-432-5198

Koupal Angus Koupal, LaVern & Alice 40050 303rd St Dante, SD 57329 605-384-5315

Millar Angus Millar, Jon & Breezy 13730 Lewis Road Newell, SD 57760 605-456-1751

Koupals B&B Angus Koupal, Bud & Bernie 40083 300th St. Dante, SD 57329 605-384-3481

Miller Angus of Draper Miller, Curt 28117 238th St Draper, SD 57531 605-669-2742

Kwasniewski, Troy 47635 184th St Clear Lake, SD 57226 605-874-2678

Miller Angus Farms Miller, Don, Greg & Brett 18742 468th Ave Estelline, SD 57234 605-873-2852

LaGrand Angus Ranch Pankratz, Lance 44130 279 St Freeman, SD 57029 605-925-7611 Latham, John 12296 Latham Rd Camp Crook, SD 57724 605-430-8157 jlangus@outlook.com Lester Hurlbut and Sons Hurlbut, Rod 17175 416 Ave Raymond, SD 57258 605-532-3187 Lewis Angus Lewis, Jesse 5810 Peaceful Pines Black Hawk, SD 57718 605-787-5439 Lindskov-Thiel Ranch Thiel, Brent P.O. Box 37 Isabel, SD 57633 605-466-2392

Mogck & Sons Mogck, Charles 42193 282nd St Olivet, SD 57052 605-583-4385 Mogck Angus Farms Mogck, David & Justin 1100 N Main St Tripp, SD 57376 605-940-9771 Mogck, Duane PO Box 366 Scotland, SD 57059 Mohnen Angus Mohnen, Steve 25770 370 Ave White Lake, SD 57383 605-249-2719 Moore Angus Moore, Jerry & Pam 23317 412 Ave Artesian, SD 57314 605-527-2395

Littau Angus Littau, LeRoy & Bob 27969 301st St Winner, SD 57580 605-557-3533

Morse Angus Morse, Martin & John 23036 449th Ave. Madison, SD 57042 605-256-3449

M&E Angus Kroupa, Marvin 36023 251st St Kimball, SD 57355 605-778-6346

Mt. Rushmore Angus Rypkema, Eddie 1120 S. Omaha Rapid City, SD 57401 605-343-7805

M&J Gaugers Angus Farm 18028 472nd Ave Clear Lake, SD 57226

Nelson Angus Nelson, Randy 41909 193rd St Carpenter, SD 57322 605-352-2347

Mehlhaf Angus Mehlhaf, Dale 43465 283 St Freeman, SD 57029 605-387-5411

Ogren Angus Ogren, Daniel 42644 124th St

Langford, SD 57454 605-493-6434 Palm, Nathan 18725 472nd Ave Estelline, SD 57234 605-876-2011 Palmquist, Clayton 14004 465th Ave Wilmot, SD 57279 605-938-4461 Par Farms Raml, Phil 46626 170th St Goodwin, SD 57238 605-8823430 Perli Angus Perli, Keith 7208 Old Folsom Road Rapid City, SD 57703 605-343-0087 Petersek Angus Petersek, Rodney 32554 287th St Colome, SD 57528 605-842-2919 Peterson Angus Peterson, Brandon 104 Church St Alcester, SD 57001 605-934-2130 Peterson Angus Peterson, Gordon L. 45371 116th St Sisseston, SD 57262 605-698-7876 gopete@venturecomm.net Ravellette Cattle Ravellette, Don & Tami P.O. Box 633 Philip, SD 57567 605-685-5147 don@pioneer_review.com

Raven Angus Rod, RJ & Ray 28665 326th Ave Colome, SD 57528 605-842-2153

Shiloh Angus Farm Goodroad, Darryl 47634 187th St Brandt, SD 57218 605-874-2980

RBM Livestock Bergh, Ryan & Mike 44226 155th St Florence, SD 57235 605-758-2470

Sleepy Hollow Farm Johnson, Mark 46473 289th St Centerville, SD 57014 605-563-2875

RCA Valley Angus Pigors, Rick, Cindy & Ashley 41123 139th St Andover, SD 57422 605-395-6625 Rock Creek Livestock Geppert, Kevin & Helen 25525 406 Ave. Mitchell, SD 57301 605-770-3544 Rogen Angus Rogen, Dick, Shally, Andrew & Alex 48274 258th St Brandon, SD 57005 605-582-3630 Roth Angus Roth, Craig 42879 277th St Freeman, SD 57029 605-925-4650 Sandyacres Angus Farm Green, James & Jane 43336 171st St Clark, SD 57225 605-532-5113 Schelske Angus Schelske, Aaron, Adam & Mark 38519 217th St Virgil, SD 57379 605-849-3505

Sletten Angus Sletten, Jon P.O. Box 615 Faith, SD 57626 605-967-2238 Sodak Angus Ranch Meyer, Vaughn 15571 Sorum Road Reva, SD 57651 605-866-4426 Solsaa Angus Farm Eric Solsaa 45417 186th St Hayti, SD 57241 605-237-0984 Soulek Angus Soulek, Joseph & Michelle 35566 257th St Kimball, SD 57355 605-778-6767 Stark Angus Stark, Jason PO Box 21 Utica, SD 57067 Styles Angus Styles, Bob & Chris PO Box 56 Brentford, SD 57429 605-887-3281 Thomas Ranch Thomas, Troy & VeaBea 18441 Capri Place Harrold, SD 57536 605-973-2448

Turtle Creek Angus Dieters, Ty & Kari 16803 Stoneville Rd Faith, SD 57626 605-748-2404 Van Beek Ranch Van Beek, Jeff 11251 Vanbeek Pl. Pollock, SD 57648 605-889-2525 Varilek Angus Varilek, Mick & Lynn 29208 374th Ave Geddes, SD 57342 605-337-2261 Varilek Angus Varliek, Scott & Ross 37471 292nd St Geddes, SD 57342 605-337-9896 Walter Angus Farm Walter, Jack 40852 134th St Groton, SD 57445 605-397-8368 Weishaar, Seth 11639 Snoma Rd Belle Fourche, SD 57717 Wicks Angus Wicks, Scott 41639 186th St Carpenter, SD 57322 605-352-9802 Wilkinson Ranch Inc Wilkinson, Bill, Mary, Dan & Mark 20143 440th Ave Lake Preston, SD 57249 605-847-4102

Marketing & Management

Spicklers' customers can usually expect a nice May day for choosing bulls but the family has seen storms on their sale day.

Courtesy photo.

what time is it?

Three Seedstock Producers Discuss How They Decide What Day to Hold a Bull Sale

By Carrie Stadheim Editor

250 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

Bull sale day For some it is one of the most exciting days of the year. For others, the most stressful. For most, perhaps a mix of the two.

The stress for the seller is obvious – how will the bulls sell? What kind of weather will we get? Will all the bulls be healthy?

The buyer has stress too – will I have problems at home that prevent me from leaving? Will my favorite bull go too high?

What if I buy a bull early and I don’t like him by turnout time? What if I wait until spring and I can’t find the bulls I like?

so we can’t hold a sale in the spring because it’s full of cows.”

Their customers needed to adjust to buying yearling bulls, Todd said, but now they have become accustomed to it. And they like it. The yearling bulls outsold the two-yearolds this year. Probably due to the fresh genetics, he figures.

Green Mountain offers free wintering on all of the bulls. Todd said his customers appreciate it for a number of reasons.

In addition to the obvious savings in feed, allowing the bulls to winter with the same contemporary groups they have been with

since weaning keeps them safer. “For a customer to buy them and turn them out in the pasture with the big bulls could be awfully tough on them.”

The bulls are semen tested before spring delivery, Todd said, and the occasional bull that doesn’t prove up is replaced or refunded, whichever the customer chooses.

Besides calving in the spring, the Todd family is busy artificially inseminating cows, 200-250 at a time, in four segments.

The bull calves are weaned in August but the heifer calves stay on the cow a bit longer.

And the list could go on.

There are a number of factors that enter a seedstock producer’s mind when preparing for a bull sale. When planning that first one, a big question is, “When?”

On nearly any given day between the first of December and the middle of May, a cattleman could find a bull sale in the tri-state region. On the few off days, a rancher could go look at some private treaty bulls.

Have you ever wondered, why do they sell their bulls on that day?

The fall sale Tim Todd with Green Mountain Angus Ranch, hosted his family’s annual bull sale November 21, 2014 at the ranch near Rygate, Montana.

The day following the sale, he hadn’t crunched all the numbers just yet but said his sale average was probably up about $2,000 over the year before, which had also been a good sale.

Todd said his sale is always the third Friday in November. This year about 200 calves went through the ring, along with 20 two-year-olds.

With all of the “other stuff” going on in the spring it would be awfully hard to host a sale, too, he said. “We’ve got the one barn and it’s a combination calving and sale barn

THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • 251

US

Marketing & Management

Heifers are another highlight of the fall sale, Todd said. They sold about 250 heifers they had purchased from bull customers at their 2014 sale.

The top 100 of those heifers synchronized and AI'd to one of Green Mountain’s new herd bulls - MM Confidence J2132 brought $4,000 per head at the 2014 sale.

The earlier-born calves, that are usually AI-sired and/or embryo transplants, make up the fall sale. Later-born calves, some out of cleanup bulls, are sold in the spring private treaty.

Jed Evjene with the American Fork Ranch regularly buys bulls at Green Mountain.

“Time is a factor. The fall sales are better for us,” he said. Location helps too, as the

LaDUE SUNRISE ANGUS

BULL SALE

Monday, April 27, 2015 • 1:00pm MT

FAITH LIVESTOCK, FAITH SD SELLING 75 YEARLING & 2 YEAR OLD BULLS SAV FINAL ANSWER 0035

SAV PRIORITY 7283

SITZ UPWARD 307R

SITZ DASH 10277

“They just raise great bulls for our operation. There aren’t two harder working people in the industry than Tim and Kris Todd. They listen to their customers.”

Evjene added that he’s never had an issue with the bulls looking different than he expected when they are delivered in the spring. In fact Todd makes a point of asking Evjene to evaluate them at delivery so an adjustment can be made if the bulls aren’t up to standard.

“His sale was through the roof on Friday, not only because of his good bulls but because of the good loyalty to his customers.”

The early spring sale Doug Thorson has a well-rounded perspective when it comes to bull sale dates.

BC MATRIX 4132

GDAR GAME DAY 449

He decided, that he wanted to host his own bull sale and did it for the first time in 2013. “February looked like a really good month to do it. I could keep them as long as possible and still have the sale done before I started calving.”

Kent and Janet LaDue

Meadow, SD 605-788-2969 SUNRISE ) ) sunriseangusranch.com

ANGUS

But the service and quality of bulls is the ultimate deciding factor.

He first sold bulls on “bull day” at Philip Livestock, along with a number of other breeders. The date was late enough in the spring that he was mostly finished calving, so it worked pretty well. He sold some yearlings and some two-year-olds.

“Striving for Excellence” La Due

Two Dot, Montana, rancher is just 75 miles from Green Mountain Ranch.

)

“Seek the Lord while He may be found” - Isaiah 55:6 252 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

Thorson now sells strictly two-yearold bulls and doesn’t have to worry about pushing any yearlings to have them ready for a sale.

One drawback of a February sale is that some customers are already calving, especially those operating further east. “Some East River guys calve in February so they can be done before their farm work and the mud,” he said.

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Marketing & Management

Thorson said he considered a fall sale but decided he didn’t want to be getting ready for a fall sale when he “should be doing other things.”

Selling his bulls in February allows him time leading up to the sale to show potential customers around his cowherd if they are interested. Operating without a hired man, Thorson wouldn’t be able to do that during the fall or later in the spring when he’s calving.

Plus he likes being able to turn his bulls out on grass all summer.

Green Mountain bull buyers appreciate the winter feeding option and the delivery their ranch provides.

Courtesy photo

He figures that a fall sale would likely require feedlot treatment for the bulls throughout the summer and that doesn’t fit his philosophy.

Clay Ekstrum 605-778-6185 (H) 605-730-1511 (C)

John Ekstrum 605-778-6414

Raising Simmentals since 1970

Ekstrum Simmentals & Simm/Genetics 36220 57th Street, Kimball, SD 57355

Email: clayekstrum@midstatesd.net www.ekstrumsimmentals.com

Ekstrum Simmentals Annual Bull Sale • February 14, 2015 • 1pm, Kimball, SD

Ekstrum Simmentals Annual Bull Sale

February 15, 2014, 1:00 Kimball, SD BALL 125B CCEpm, EKR POWER ASA# 2918602 Sire:CCE Spring Lotto 52Y 770A EKRCreek PLAINSMAN ASA#2784921 Dam: CCE EKR Ms TC 125Y Sire: KOP True North 103Y BD Dam: 2/15/14 • Act. BDV Viola T43 Birth Wt. 94lb • Act. WW 715lb BD: 2/10/13 • Act. BW: 94 lbs • Act. WW: 880 lbs EPD’s: CE 3.2 BW 3.5 WW 73.2 YW 110.2 EPDs: CE: 8 BW: 2.6 WW: 67 YW: 93 MCE: 10 MM: 33 66 $API: 64 61 MCE 10.4MWW:MM 24.493 $TI: MWW Outcross to Gunner, Top Gun, Red Caesar, Rushmore and Freedom pedigrees

CCE KLONDIKE 637B CCE EKR EKR TONTO 806A ASA#2784971 ASA#2918461 Sire: LFE Black Lakota 385W CCE 128W EKR Ms TC 806U Sire:Dam:MRL BD: 2/19/13 • Act. BW: 99 lbs • Act. WW: 860 lbs Dam: CCE Ms 616SYW: 112 MCE: 12 EPDs: CE: 8 Phaltless BW: 3 WW: 73 MM: 16 MWW: 52 $API: 91 $TI: 63 BD:Outcross 2/11/14 • Act. Birth Wt. 90lb • Act WW 750lb to Upgrade, Dream On, Club King and Force3.5 pedigrees EPD’s: CE 5.1ShearBW WW 59.9 YW 85.2 MCE 7 MM 26 MWW 56 CCE EKR OAHE A1 ASA# 2785067 Sire: KOP True North 103Y Dam: Ankony Miss Canace R169 ET Bull 917B CCE EKR JEFFERY BD: 2/17/13 • Act. BW: 95 lbs • Act. WW: 790 lbs ASA#2918599 EPDs: CE: 5 BW: 4.5 WW: 72 YW: 102 MCE: 11 MM: 34 MWW: 67 $API: 89 $TI: 66 Sire:MRL Ringman 112Z Outcross to Gunner, Top Gun, Beef Maker, Beef King, Rushmore and Freedom Dam: CCE EKR Ms Vixan 917Wpedigrees

Sale will be broadcast live via the internet by Prairie Productions.

For pictures and video of the bulls go to ekstrumsimmentals.com

BD: 2/14/14 • Act. Birth Wt. 96lb • Act WW 790lb Other Sires Represented: MRL 128W, TNT Top Cut P274, EPD’s: CE 6.6 BWRed2.4 YWEdition 103.5 KS Bravado P68, MRL StoneWW 126Y,70.2 TH Black 8R, Trax's Rushmore Trax’s25.9 Solo Y39,MWW MRL Black MCE 11.1X103,MM 61 Out 226Y, SAV Final Answer 0035.

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254 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

When he starts the bulls on a growing ration in the fall, Thorson likes that he’s working with coming two-year-olds who possess enough frame that he can push them a little harder than he could a coming yearling.

He shoots for a gain of four pounds per day leading up to the sale. His ration consists of silage, corn, distillers, ground grass hay, a Rumensin balancer product and a mineral package.

One added expense would be yardage, he said, considering two-year-old bulls are more argumentative than yearlings and can cause more fence damage and such.

While he usually offers free feeding until spring, due to the loss of a leased pasture, this year Thorson will offer a $100 discount to customers that take their bull home with them on sale day. The balance of the sale bulls will be delivered shortly after the sale.

Thorson figures a lot of commercial cattlemen buy bulls “when they can get away.”

Plus, he said low supplies of Hereford bulls works in his favor.

Even for himself, when choosing a bull, Thorson said, “It’s about finding that guy that has the right sort of philosophy.”

6th Annual Production Sale

NEW SALE DATE Saturday, March 21, 2015

NEW LOCATION : FORGEY RANCH, SOUTH OF DALLAS, SD

Selling 120 Angus Bulls & a select group of Sim/Angus bulls SIRES INCLUDE:

Dan & Lyn Forgey 605.835.8675 or 605.830.5990

HF Kodiak5R

Sitz Upward 307R

S Chisum 6175

SAV Priority 7283

Kevin Graesser 605.835.8223 or 605-830-1574 Rod Graesser 605.835.8039 or 605.830.2029

www.forgeyangus.com • Soo Line Motive • Mogck Bullseye • Final Answer

Featured Sires Include:

SAV Final Answer 0035 EXAR Upshot 0562B Sitz Upward 307R GAR-EGL Protege Pine Ridge Hammer Conneally Consensus 7229 S Chisum 6175 SAV Lot One SAV Potential

One of Nebraska’s Best Sources of Quality Two-Year-Old Angus Range Bulls

47th Annual Production Sale

Friday, March 6, 2015 1 P.M. CST

Sale To Be Held At The Ranch, Near Rockville Sires Include: Payweight, Bismarck, Excitement, Pioneer, Networth, Iron Mountain, Hoover CC&7, Upward, Windy, Upshot, Wisdom and Others

Featured Sires Include: Selling 120 Head of Registered Angus SAV Final Answer 0035 90 Big Stout 2-Year-Olds & 30 Quality Yearlings EXAR Upshot 0562B

Sitz Upward 307R GAR-EGL Protege Pine Ridge Hammer Featured Sires Include: Conneally Consensus 7229 SAV Final Answer S0035 Chisum 6175 EXAR Upshot 0562B SAV Lot One SAV Potential Sitz Jerry Upwardand 307R Gary Dethlefs GAR-EGL Protege 78119 S. River Rd., Rockville, NE 68871

Also Selling 25 Top Quality Females

Carl Dethlefs

ION THE TRADIT S E U IN CONT

Pine Ridge Hammer

& Sons

• dethlefsangus.com 308-372-3200 Conneally Consensus 7229

S Chisum 6175 SAV Lot One

VOLUME DIS COUNT OFFERRED!

THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • 255

Marketing & Management Larry Dolezal has enjoyed buying heifer bulls from Thorson. With an April calving schedule, the Belvidere, South Dakota, rancher is able to get away in February. He usually brings his bulls home from Thorson’s sale but a neighbor of his has historically taken advantage of Thorson’s spring feeding option.

Courtesy Photo

Dolezal said because the bulls are two years old, they are able to fend for themselves pretty successfully when turned out with his other bulls in February.

Doug Thorson puts horn weights on his bulls in preparation for sale day.

The later spring sale Spickler Ranch near Glenfield, North Dakota, will hold their next production sale May 4, 2015.

Justin Spickler, the elder of the two brothers in operation together, said late spring sales were rare in the industry when they started selling Angus bulls about 20 years ago. For over ten years now they have hosted the sale on the place, after holding the first several in Carrington.

Justin likes having the sale at the ranch as it gives the brothers the opportunity to showcase their cows too.

The family chose a spring sale date after selling bulls privately for several years.

“When we started selling bulls privately, most of them sold in May and June.” Justin said the post-calving date also prevented them from having to push their bulls in the feedlot in preparation for an earlier sale date.

“With the nicer weather, we can slick shave the bulls a month before so they aren’t half shed-out. That makes the bulls look so shiny and it helps keep them clean. Manure and mud doesn’t stick to them as easily

when their hair is short. It is just what fits our management methods.”

The bulls are fed a ration of beet pulp, wheat mids, corn screenings, distillers, alfalfa haylage and straw. For the first time this year, the brothers baled their oats instead of combining them so beet pulp is taking the place of oats in the ration. The ingredients are balanced to achieve a 46 Mcal diet which the Spicklers believe is a mid-level growing diet.

Last year silage was added to the diet and Justin expects that will continue going forward.

While the target weight gain on the ration is three pounds per day their bulls generally gain 3.2 to 3.4 pounds per day. They hope to achieve about a one-quarter inch backfat level. They believe their bulls are ready to cover cows at that level of condition.

Immediately following the spring sale, Spicklers deliver the bulls and many of their customers are almost ready to start using them. Justin and his brother Nathan deliver the bulls while their wives, Sara and Emily keep watch on the last cows left to calve.

For the first time, in 2014, the boys offered some of their fall calves in a December sale. The fall-calving cows have now been

256 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

nudged into a spring calving timeframe, so going forward all cows will calve in the spring and the later-born calves will be offered in a December sale as coming 2-yearold bulls.

Younger brother Nathan said this gives the brothers a chance to market to cattlemen who might already be breeding in May when they have traditionally sold bulls.

While the Spicklers have now insulated their salebarn in preparation for their fist annual winter sale, younger brother Nathan said that in the early years, the uninsulated barn was another factor in choosing a May sale date.

The May sale will continue, with the earlier-born bulls being offered at that time.

Seth Estenson, Warwick, North Dakota, said his family is testing their bulls in early May so the Spickler sale is a great time for them to buy the added bullpower they need.

“We turn our bulls out at the end of June.

It’s a great time of year to buy bulls. They are delivered shortly before they go out to pasture so it’s a good system for us. Besides that, we found a great outfit that offers great bulls and advice.”

Doll Ranch CHAROLAIS + SIMMENTALS GENETICS 35th Annual Production Sale

Feeding & Delivery Available

Tues., March 3rd, 2015

1:30pm Kist Livestock, Mandan, ND Auctioneer: Lynn Weishaar

Rasing Charolais Since 1958 and Simmental Since 1968

SELLING TOP GENETICS IN BOTH BREEDS 90 Spring Charolais Bulls 60 Spring Simmental Bulls 5 Open Heifers from Both Breeds

Polled

Polled

Polled DCR MR B262 - BD: 3-11-2014 BW: 92, 205 wt: 811 Actual WW: 855 EPDs BW: -0.7, WW: 30, YW: 56, MLK: 11 TM: 26, SC: 1.1 Sire: LT Ledger 0332P Dam: JCH MS Easy Pro R64

Polled DCR MR B323 - BD: 3-17-2014 BW: 96, 205 wt: 923 Actual WW: 950 EPDs BW: 1.1,WW: 34, YW: 49, MLK: 2 TM: 15, SC: 0.5 Sire: White Cap Laredo 232T Dam: JCH MS Doubt W10

Polled

DCR MR B342 - BD: 3-19-2014

DCR MR B387 - BD: 3-23-14

DCR MR B115 - BD: 2-25-2014

BW: 92, 205 wt: 886 Actual WW: 905 EPDS BW: 0.4, WW: 39, YW: 72, MLK: 8 MT 28, SC: 1.0 Sire: DCR MR Solution W13 Dam: JCH MS Rio Blanco T123

BW: 95, 205 wt: 906 Actual WW: 910 EPDS BW 0.6, WW: 47, YW: 89, MLK: 5 MT: 28 SC: 0.5 Sire: SCR Tuffy 0119 Dam: JCH MS Grid Lock W81

BW: 95, 205 wt: 863, Actual WW: 915 EPDS: BW: 3.9, WW: 73, YW: 107, MLK: 27 MWW: 64, API: 111 TI: 69 Sire: LFE Red Ticket 340Z Dam: DCR MS Make Ceaser Y20

Polled

Polled

Polled

DCR MR B239 - BD: 3-10-2014

DCR MR B295 - BD: 3-15-2014

DCR MR B369 - BD: 3-20-2014

BW: 92, 205 wt: 843 Actual WW: 895 EPDS BW: 1.4, WW: 75,YW: 119, MLK 29.4 MWW: 67 APT: 131 TI: 79 Sire: MCM Top Grade 018X Dam: DCR MS Bravehart U384

BW: 92, 205 wt: 826 Actual WW: 850 EPDS: BW: 2.5, WW: 70, YW: 98, MLK: 29 MWW: 64, API: 131, TI: 72 Sire: MR TR Upgrade 2772 Dam: DCR MS Black Nugget R178

BW: 98, 205 wt: 930, Actual WW: 945 EPDs BW: 3.3, WW: 81, YW: 117, MLK 21 MWW: 62 API: 110, TI: 72 Sire: BCR MR Moonshine X102 Dam: DCR MS Rib U275

Charles Doll 701-843-8673 3991 36th St. New Salem, ND 58563 dollboyz@westriv.com

Halan Doll 701-843-8771 David Doll 701-843-7947 dollfarm@westriv.com

Directions:West of Bismarck, ND take I94 to exit 134. Go 2 miles north and1 mile west. www.dollranch.net

Visitors Always Welcome

Marketing & Management

Crook Mountain Angus Ranch Whitewood, South Dakota

But timing isn’t the only reason he likes buying Spickler bulls.

Estenson said that his father bought about 30 head of purebred Angus cows several years ago from the Spickler family.

The relationship between the two families has grown and Estensons now buy about 90 percent of their bulls from Spicklers. The service is second to none, according to Estenson. “They weren’t just offering a product, they almost partnered with us to better our operation.”

NAME

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WW

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YW

SC

Crook Mt. Windy 91

16949707

+1.7

+53

+25

+73

+1.21

HERD BULLS

NAME

REG. #

BW

WW

MLK

YW

SC

Crook Mt. Really Windy 141

13970478

+1.2

+46

+24

+80

+1.73

Hero 6267 of RR 2418

11808572

+.0

+44

+27

+57

+1.13

Crook Mt. Really Windy 2861

17261261

+.2

+32

+26

+65

+1.62

Crook Mt. Really Windy 17

15857274

+3.7

+57

+30

+80

+1.19

Hero’s Pride 2012

17188961

+.7

+36

+24

+56

I+.77

Crook MT Line Windy 2870

17261267

+1.0

+40

+23

+65

+1.21

Stop by and see our new Jr. Herd Sire!!

VDAR Black Train 1243 Reg: 17628894 This herd has been bred for maternal traits for over 50 years Semen For Sale on Herd Bulls • For More Information Call

JIM WILLSON • CROOK MT. ANGUS RANCH 20444 Crook Mt. Rd. • Whitewood, SD 57793

Phone 605-269-2360 • Cell 605-641-6906 • Email jdcangus@hotmail.com 258 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

Read us Online

tsln.com

ranch

horses

THe miles make the horse Well-broke ranch horses are in high demand among ranchers nationwide

By Jan Swan Wood 260 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

Photos courtesy Price Ranch

Horses used for ranch activities like roping and dragging calves to the branding fire are desired for a number of disciplines.

T

he cattle business and ranching has changed in many ways, but for most, one thing remains the same: ranchers still need a horse to do much of the work on the ranch.

Denny Price, Buffalo, South Dakota, is the head of the Price Ranch family that holds a sale as often as their horse numbers allow.

The August 2014 sale was the most recent and it may be several years between sales as the Prices rebuild their saddle string from the foals born and raised on the ranch and a few select young horses bought for the purpose. They offer well-started colts on up to finished rodeo horses, but the common denominator in all of them is the miles of

riding and every day ranch work the horses have experienced.

on and ride, even with time off, and they are the same every day."

Gordon Jamison, Quinter, Kansas, hosts an annual horse sale in conjunction with his bull sale. The family offers weanlings plus horses four and older that are well broke. The majority are 4-10 years old. The Jamison horses also put in the miles and work cattle on a regular basis.

Jamison says the same. "The horse that is the most in demand at our sale is the "do everything" horse that would be safe for a youth or an older gentleman or woman, yet can be a cowboy horse too. Some of our 4 and 5-year-old horses fit that description."

He added, "We sell a fairly large percentage of our horses to older ranchers that say they want one more good horse they can trust.

One that will stay broke and honest."

The demand for horses is high, and Price explains, "There were a lot of people at our sale that were older, but still ride and want a broke horse and not a colt. They want them really broke, and I don't mean broke in the arena, but a ranch horse that you can just get

Get top Dollar

"We've seen our market shift in the last 10-15 years from cowboys that bought horses to upgrade and resell, to people that want the finished product. There isn't as

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THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • 261

Marketing & Management much demand for the prospect horse," says Jamison. "Most of the market wants a finished horse and is willing to pay for it."

Price also believes that many ranchers just don't have the time or inclination to ride colts and would rather just buy a broke horse when they need one. "There were sure enough some barrel racers here looking for prospects that are well started and have a lot of experience on the ranch. It's the same with the ropers. They like these well broke horses that they can take to the arena," says Price. "I think most of them know what it takes to get a horse broke like this so know what it's worth to them to not have to do that."

"Our market has expanded to the point that these horses go all over the country.

Our nation-wide advertising program and the internet contributes to that. We sold horses into about 25 states this year and they went all over the east coast and some to the west," says Jamison. "We video all these horses before the sale and people can study those videos and call and ask questions. I think 20-30 percent of the horses sold sight unseen this year."

"We work hard at pairing the right horse with the right person, so when people tell us what they're looking for, we give them a list of the horses we believe will work for them and a list that probably won't," says Jamison. "That puts a lot of pressure on us to be careful and to be very confident in the horse you're selling."

Price said, "Having the breeder and owner's word and honor behind them makes the horses predictable and reliable. They know we're going to stand behind them.

I've made some statements about a horse or two at the sale that discouraged some people from buying it, but that's just the right thing to do. I call some of the buyers a couple weeks after the sale and see how they're getting along and it's going really good for them. If they're not getting along

Photos courtesy Price Ranch

with the horse, I'll take it back and refund their money."

Buyers build confidence in a certain outfit based on horse quality and real-world experience for the horses.

"There's no substitute for riding them," says Price. "The bloodlines improve all the time and the horses are bred to have a lot of potential and a good disposition, but that

262â&#x20AC;&#x201A; â&#x20AC;˘ TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS â&#x20AC;˘ THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

doesn't replace hours under saddle. You've got to put the miles on them and ride them through the creeks, down the cut banks and through water, day after day, and that's what we can do for them."

The high cattle market certainly has some bearing on what ranchers will pay for a broke horse, but the horses going to the arena with that good ranch foundation makes them a better piece of property as

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well. "The numbered ropings and the 4D barrel races have really opened it up so that nearly anyone can participate at the level of their ability," says Price, adding, "These well started young horses and broke horses really appeal to the ropers and barrel racers because they are so solid."

The ranch isn't the only place the well broke horses are going and according to Jamison, "The buying public isn't as knowledgeable as they were even 15 years ago. I was visiting with Don Treadway from AQHA and he said that we're not just marketing horses any longer but the western lifestyle. They want to be a part of the dream and if they have the money, they can buy a horse that fulfills that ideal. There are fewer cowboys in the world but more people who would like to be."

Price believes that in the northern plains region, the law of supply and demand is also playing a part in the ranch horse market. "I think there are just fewer horses out there to pick from. You used to be able to go to an open horse sale on a Sunday nearly anywhere in this area and there might be 50-60 ride in horses there and lots of started colts. They might not have been the best quality, but they were available. Now there just aren't hardly any and people have to find a horse another way."

Price added, "These broke horse sales that are backed by the breeders are a great place to get a good horse that fits them."

Jamisons sell their weanlings right along with the broke horses and the average on them at their November 2014 sale was $3,480. "We've been working hard at developing our weanling market," says Jamison, "It's way harder to sell those yearlings and two year olds. In the process, we've worked ourselves out of the young, started horse market!" Jamison added, "We have cut back on mares in recent years so only had 30 weanlings in the sale, but we keep back some to use on the ranch. Next year we'll probably have around 50 colts born on the ranch."

Price has kept a modest number of broodmares, most of whom have put in their time in the saddle string and earned the right to raise foals. "I've had lots of

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THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • 265

Marketing & Management

h l 9tnua An

BULL SALE

APRIL 3RD, 2015 • 1:00 P.M.

@ ST. ONGE LIVESTOCK, ST. ONGE, SD SIRES:

3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3

LaGrand MAF Antidote KAR Poker Face (son of Antidote) Derner Pendleton LaGrand Brillance 2011 EXAR Denver 2002B OCC Ultimate Answer Pow Wow Soo Line Alternative

40

BULLS SELL!

WJLS 2014 Res Champion Angus Heifer, sired

by Antidote CSF 2014 Grand Champion Angus Bull, sired

by Derner Pendleton

Matt & April Kammerer • 22196 Elk Vale Rd • Rapid City, SD 57701 Ph#605-923-6381 or cell#605-484-1469 kammerer.livestock@gmail.com 266 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

chances to buy some really good mares, but I'm not going to do it. I'm going to stay with the numbers we're raising because they're what we can get ridden and ridden right to be ready for the sale," he says.

Both breeders believe that the cycle is improving in the horse market. With fewer broodmares overall, there are fewer young horses coming into the market, so the demand is higher for the better quality horses from reputation programs. "I just don't see that the horse breeders are going to go back to breeding so many horses again. The numbers will never be back to what they were 10 years ago," says Price.

"I think the market's going to stay strong because we, as breeders, are going to keep spending the time to make these horses ready to sell and people are still going to want to buy a broke horse instead of a colt," says Price. Jamison agrees. "The ranch horse fits nearly every discipline out there.

The ranch foundation can go any direction, whether they want to rope, do youth events, trail riding, whatever. These horses have the experience to go do it. I think the cycle is going to keep improving."

20 head bull bred, due 3/15-30 with a heifer calf. a common sense approach to 74 headaduecommon Mar./Apr. sorted 15 day calvingtointervals. senseintoapproach

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Genetic Excellence

the most For the past 17 For years astute Topp Herefords the hascommercial made past a commitment 17 to provide and years servicecattlemen some of the T mostopp astute commercial Heref cattlemen added across the United bonus across States. A blend ofof moderate the feeder BW andUnited Performance calf in volume, along States. and with the addedheifer bonus of feeder A calfblend and heifer moremarketing efficient, options, marketing gives our clients more an edge up on the competition profitable options, with today`s demands forgives more cattle. efficient, more profitable our cattle.clie Consider the new kind of Herefords, Topp Herefords.

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VOLUME 100% of LT heifers sourced fromandtheservice Midwest.some of the most astute commercial cattlemen For the past 17 years Topp Herefords has made a commitment to provide XVfrom Topp Herefords Vast majority of LT heifers across the United States. A blend of moderate BW and PerformanceSALE in volume, along with the added bonus of feeder calf and heifer BULL genetics, with detailed records of their genetic base.

TH TH 71U 719T 95W VICTOR 2B 71U 17Y LAMBEAU 144B 17Y LAMBEAU2B 144B TH 719T VICTOR marketing options, gives our clients an edgeEntire up ongroup the competition today`s program. demands for TH more95W efficient, more profitable cattle. on a completewith vaccination MON. FEB 2, 2015 TH 60W 17Y LAMBEAU 439B TH 29Z 145Y PROSPECTOR 154 CarcassGRACE data mates.

Consider the available newCITY, kindonofsteer Herefords, ND BW

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150 yrlg. bulls • 30 reg. open heifers 8 spring calving bred reg. heifers 8 fall calving bred reg. heifers 10 proven donors

BW WW YW M REA IMF 1.5 57 91 26 0.23 0.15

TH TH 71U 512X 719TTH VICTOR 7B 145Y PROSPECT THOR 512X 145Y PROSPECTOR 49B 49B 71U 719T VICTOR 7B 350 Commercial Bred Heifers YW M2ND. REA IMF BW BW WW YW BW M REAWW IMF WW YW M BW REA WW YW M REA IMF IMF SELLING FEB. 1.6

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24 0.29 77 108 head AI`D, due 3/10 with a bull calf.26 104 head AI`D, due 3/10 with a heifer calf.

28 head bull bred, due 3/15-30 with a bull calf.

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• Carcass data & conversion results • Forward contracting TH 71U 719T VICTOR 2Breport & • Delivery options 17Y LAMBEAU 144B Ryan and PrairieTH Topp95W701.674.3152 • Carcass data evaluation Feedlot AllianceHerefords/SB 1157 83rd Ave NE BW WWinfo@toppherefords.com BW WW Topp YW M Herefords/SB&B REA IMF Topp YW M REA IMF • PVP approval option consultation (if desired) www.toppherefords.com BW

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WW YW REA M Become aYW TH customer and enjoyM the benefits of marketing 36 91 71 26 22 0.23 your replacement heifers through this unique program.

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MON. FEB 2, 2015

The sale is just the beginning

The sale is ju

Grace City, ND 58445 44 87 21 0.23 0.14 • Off the farm appraisals Deferred payment 0.8option 1.6 53 • Deferred 77 26 payment 0.• 48 0.option 07

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Purchase Purchase a Topp Herefords bull and you become a T partopp of the Alliance. Herefords bull a email be tocattle our mailing Pleasebenefits call or email tolist. be added to our mailing list.

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38th Annual Bull Sale • Monday, February 16, 2015 12:30 p.m. (CST) • At the Ranch, 3 miles South and 1/2 miles East of Dante, SD

Koupal Angus

160 yearling bulls & 25 aged bulls • 50 Registered & Commercial Heifers Selling from the Koupal’s herd a pick of the 2014 yearling heifers

13

sons sell!

Koupals B & B Dante 2069

Koupals B & B Titan 3013

20

16

sons sell!

sons sell!

4

Koupal’s B & B Identity 0020 #16710463

sons sell!

Koupals B & B Supremacy 2019 CED +3; BW +1.9; WW +67; YW +126; Milk +36; Marb +.41;REA +.96; Beef +106.81 – Co-owned with Krebs Ranch

7

8

Koupals B & B Extra 0011 #16710494

sons sell!

Koupals B & B Extra 2014

CED +0; BW +3.0; WW +77; YW +130; Milk +19; Marb +.65; REA +.95; Beef +109.11

10755998R Koupal Angus he sells!

C=1 M=1 Y=1 OtherKoupals B & B Ft Knox 4047 Cable, 1SD05 Susan

Koupal Advance 28

progeny sells!

sons sell!

Koupals B & B Ft Knox 2077 • #17322785

Koupal Juneau 797 • #15804077

CED +1; BW +2.7; WW +80; YW +127; Milk +26; Marb +.25; REA +.90; Beef +93.78 – co-owned with Moore Angus

BW +2.6; WW +73; YW +137; Milk +27; Marb +.24; REA +.58; Beef +87.51

Herd Sire:

15

sons sell!

Koupal MVP 0200 • #16725260 CED +0; BW +2.7; WW +65; YW +107; Milk +26; Marb -.20; REA +.33; Beef +42.28

Koupal Angus

OCC Juneau 807J Koupal Advance Koupal’s B & B Endurance Koupal Czech • Baldridge Optimum • Duff Palarmo Koupal’s B & B Amigo 0272 Koupals B & B Frontman 1010

AI Sires: RB Active Duty- 12 sons sell Buford Ranch Hand- 12 sons sell Connealy Guinness

For more information or to request a catalog please contact Koupal Angus

LaVern & Alice Koupal Derek & Kristi Koupal & sons Phone/Fax: 605-384-5315 LaVern’s cell: 605-491-1768 Derek home: 605-384-4429 • Derek’s cell: 605-491-0244 lakoupal@cme.coop

www.koupalangus.com

Video available in January Koupal B&B Angus Bud & Bernie Koupal family Phone/Fax: 605-384-3481 Bud’s cell: 605-491-2102 Joe & Sara cell: 605-491-3202 Dan’s cell: 605-491-1331 bbkoupal@cme.coop

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Selling

story

80

Yearling Bulls

“Rock

24th Annual

Solid” Bull Sale

March 9, 2015, 1 p.m.

At the Ranch 5 miles west of Springview on Hwy 12

“ROCK SOLID” GENETICS Featuring sons of

~ Barstow Cash ~ Connealy Consensus ~ VAR Rocky ~ Totus Midius ~ Kesslers Frontman ~ VDAR Really Windy 4097

Barstow Cash Reg #17145326 CED+12 BW+.5 WW+70 YW+129 SC+1.77 M+25

PROGENY OF THESE DONOR DAMS WILL SELL!

Barstow Queen W16 Reg #17138019 Mother of Barstow Cash

Barstow Tidy Bee RCA T8 Reg #16515386 Very productive female

For Sale Book and Information Contact: Neri & Patty Barstow 402.497.3448 Neri cell 402.322.0286

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Mohnen Angus

Selling half interest and no possession.

Power of Genetics “Annual Bull Sale”

Friday, February 13, 2015 • 1 p.m. • At the Ranch 113 Stout Yearling Registered Angus Bulls 10 Rugged Fall Bulls 25 Massive Sim-Angus Bulls

Mohnen South Dakota 402

Sam of o ple Den ur Car ver load

BW +3.5; WW +64; YW +114; Milk +32; Marb +.33; REA +.16 BW 96 • ADJ. 205-day Wt. 818 Half brother to $160,000 Mohnen Impressive 1093 Dam is a Pathfinder® with progeny ratios of WR 4@104 and YR 3@109.

17843862

Mohnen Rancher 304

Mohnen Custer 504

BW +4.2; WW +77; YW +121; Milk +27; Marb +.21; REA +.61 BW 95 • ADJ. 205-day Wt. 876 Dam has progeny ratios of WR 2@104 and YR 1@112.

BW +1.2; WW +76; YW +116; Milk +29; Marb +.42; REA +.45 BW 80 • ADJ. 205-day Wt. 900 Dam progeny ratios of WR 1@112

17843968 BW +1.6; WW +70; YW +115; Milk +29; Marb +.52; REA +.47 BW 82 • ADJ. 205-day Wt. 862 Dam has progeny ratios of WR 2@106 and YR 2@105.

Mohnen East River 574

Sale Consultant: Chris Effling • 605-769-0142 ANGUSJournal

BW +3.9; WW +80; YW +127; Milk +24; Marb +.51; REA +.43 BW 95 • ADJ. 205-day Wt. 899 Dam progeny ratios of WR 2@108 and YR 1@106

17845166

17843930

Mohnen Big Valley 1244

Mohnen Badlands 2524

BW +2.8; WW +80; YW +126; Milk +31; Marb +.42; REA +.44 BW 92 • ADJ. 205-day Wt. 928 Dam has progeny ratios of WR 3@107 and YR 2@101.

BW +4.4; WW +77; YW +122; Milk +31; Marb +.39; REA +.52 BW 82 • ADJ. 205-day Wt. 927 Dam is a Pathfinder® with progeny ratios of WR 3@112 and YR 3@113.

Auctioneer: Seth Weishaar • 605-210-1124

■

17843866

Raising Quality Cattle is not our job – it’s our life!

EPDs as of 12/8/14

1

BW +3.1; WW +67; YW +116; Milk +29; Marb +.66; REA+.52 BW 94 • ADJ. 205-day Wt. 918 Maternally related to the $120,000 Mohnen South Dakota 402 and the $160,000 Mohnen Impressive 1093. Dam is a Pathfinder® with a WR 4@107 and YR 4@104.

Mohnen Sandhills 1454

BW +3.9; WW +84; YW +130; Milk +26; Marb +.44; REA +.40

Mohnen Deadwood 1114

Mohnen Global 1274

17843969

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17845168

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March 23, 2015 1:00pm

at Belle Fourche Livestock Exchange Selling 100 Yearling Angus Bulls

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SAV Resource 1441

Connealy Consensus 7229

BW -.9 WW 62 YW 103 MILK 23 $B 61.92 BW 3.9 WW 76 YW 128 MILK 34 $B 104.88 BW 2.2 WW 63 YW 104 Milk 33 $B 129.37

Connealy Confidence 0100

Connealy Comrade 1385

BW –2.9 WW 50 YW 90 MILK 31 $B 101.78

BW –2.4 WW 60 YW 111 MILK 28 $B 106.89

SAV Pioneer 7301

SAV Potential 0205

BW 2.1 WW 61 YW 109 MILK 30 $B 91.61 BW 2.1 WW 54 YW 109 MILK 36 $B 105.41

SAV Bismarck 5682

BW .3 WW 58 YW 97 Milk 23 $B 74.89

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BW .1 WW 51 YW 96 MILK 30 $B 107.01

Iron Mountain Cattle Co. Belle Fourche, SD For information contact Mike Davis 605-892-2039 Ironmountain@hughes.net Check our web site www.ironmountaincattle.com for information on all sale bulls

Marketing & Management

BIGGER CATTLE Meat Demand

In the shadow of bigger cows and fewer of them, beef industry professionals are changing the way they do business to follow the profits for premium.

Call it herd instinct in pursuit of a cash cow.

Slaughter weights dropped slightly over last year. According to USDA reports, we saw a 4.16 percent drop. That’s taken in the context of fewer, larger animals that almost kept pace with demand. Counted by the head, the industry saw 7 percent fewer critters slaughtered. The larger carcass

weight has been on an upward trend for half a century.

This year the market saw a record rate for steers. USDA inspected steers with an average carcass weight of more than 900 pounds.

As premium beef takes up a larger market share, some feeders are noting market signals for long-term profitability, paying more attention to quality and not just added weight.

276 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

By Nicole Michaels

At the same time, the decline of the American cattle herd and the increase in carcass weights has forced Certified Angus Beef ® brand to change it s standards.

The non-profit owned by the American Angus Association recently made room for a heavier cow in order to stay competitive in the production sector. Effective Nov. 24, carcasses can top 1,000 pounds and weigh up to 1,050 lb. and still be eligible for certification with CAB.

“We did that to stay relevant in a changing market,” said Steve Suther, director of industry information for CAB. The change could mean another 5 percent in product from the additional 3,000 cattle at 30 licensed plants each week.

In spite of feedlots fattening animals more in order to try and make up for fewer to slaughter, sourcing feeders on quality and not just gain is starting to make a lot of sense with premium selling well.

Spending a little more at the front end can mean earning valuable premiums per hundredweight that you earn on the grid for high performance cattle.

Grid pricing consists of a base price with specified premiums and discounts for carcasses above and below a base or standard set of quality specs.

CAB’s numbers are hard to ignore.

Sales in fiscal year 2014 were 882 million pounds.

“With fifteen percent of cattle going into our program, we are without a doubt the biggest brand out there,” Suther says.

It’s the 10th straight time the brand’s network of more than 17,000 licensed partners achieved year-over-year growth, with the two percent increase representing an additional 17 million pounds of product.

Six of the brand’s 10 best sales months in its 36-year history were in Fiscal 2014.

Monthly sales exceeded 70 million pounds for most of the year, and in August, they exceeded 80 million for only the second time since the brand was formed in 1978.

In order to maintain their position, CAB had no choice but to make some changes.

For two years, CAB employees have been walking meat coolers, evaluating the brand directly in the marketplace.

Only one in four Angus cattle qualify as certified, but the rest are certainly marketable and may be graded as prime or choice.

Feedlots, packers and ultimately the consumer want more black Angus period. CAB says the consumer wants its beef in particular as the brand enforces 10 specifications for marbling, maturity, consistency and appearance that go beyond USDA grading.

CAB’s 36 licensed processors increased sales by more than 10 percent in 2014. That meant an additional 80,000 cattle were certified, helping satisfy growing demand.

Those are strong signals sent back to the farm and ranch that quality pays. Cattlemen and women earn premiums averaging $40/head on qualifying cattle. CAB credits the family farmer and rancher for improving quality through genetics, management, and care.

Since 1995, packers have paid producers half a billion dollars in value-based grid premiums for cattle accepted into the brand, which begins with Angus-influenced cattle.

The demand for premium beef drove CAB sales by international licensed partners to a new record of 120 million pounds, or a 9 percent increase. This growth was fueled by brand partners in 46 countries outside the United States, with Canada, Asia (Hong Kong, South Korea and Japan) and the Middle East representing the biggest growth markets.

Prior to 2006, the brand had no weight limit. Eight years ago, that was replaced with a rib-eye bracket of 10 to 16 square inches, a limit of 1-inch in external fat and a carcass weight cap at less than 1,000 lbs.

Founded by Angus cattlemen, the Certified Angus Beef ® brand is the only brand owned by the American Angus Association® and its nearly 25,000 rancher members.

The USDA inspects all U.S. and imported beef.

THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • 277

Annual Sale

Cattle bred to perform on the range, in the feed yard, and on the plate.

April 4, 2015 • Bowman Auction Market • 12 pm Selling 175 Yearling Reg. Angus Bulls

800 Commercial Angus & Black Baldy Heifers

We let mother nature cull for fertility and longevity, no excuses

Moderate framed, easy keeping kind, not overfed to ensure fertility and longevity. We cull hard for udder quality and disposition!

connealy consensus 7229

sitz Wisdom 481t

Cows culled for disposition & udder quality

SireS repreSented...

Connealy Confidence 0100

BW -2.9

WW +50

YW +90

MILK +31

MARB RE $B +.44 +1.60 101.78

Connealy Consensus 7229

BW +2.2

WW +63

YW +104

MILK +33

VAR Reserve 1111

BW +.6

WW +57

YW +103

MILK +35

PA Powertool 9108

BW +1.2

WW +60

YW +112

MILK +50

MARB +1.02

RE +.92

$B 129.37

MARB RE $B +80 +1.13 117.35 MARB +1.14

EPDs as of 12-8-14

RE +.68

$B 97.25

Bulls developed for longevity & fertility

PA Full Power 1208

BW +.4

WW +66

YW +112

MILK +47

Sitz Wisdom 481T

BW +1.7

WW +59

YW +116

MILK +21

RE +.63

$B 116.73

MILK +25

MARB RE +.64 +1.07

$B 96.56

MILK +33

MARB +1.78

$B 120.75

B/R New Day 454

BW +1.7

WW +55

YW +100

GAR Prophet BW +.9

WW +80

YW +139

MARB RE $B +1.15 +1.02 116.09 MARB +.78

RE +.63

More than 70% of the bulls will work on Heifers! about the commercial heifers

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HF REBEL 53Y

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MR ANGUS • Juan Reyes

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282 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

Feed &

Forage ”He makes grass grow for the cattle, and plants for people to cultivate-- bringing forth food from the earth…” - Psalm 104:14

THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • 283

Feed & Forage

derrick dukart: Real World Research in Grazing Cover Crops

By Colette “Koko” Gjermundson Grandma was wrong. She used an apron or a dishtowel to shoo straying cows away from her blooms, thinking that bovines shouldn’t eat flowers.

Fast forward a generation or two. Today, cover crop enthusiasts like Derrick Dukart, Manning, North Dakota, mix dozens of seed species – including wildflowers and sometimes leftover garden seeds – into cover crop mixtures intended for livestock grazing. It’s an effort to improve plant pollination and insect diversity en route to high-quality crop production and ultimately, soil health.

Dukart, his wife, Angie, and their three children farm and ranch adjacent to the North Dakota State University Dickinson Research Extension Center (DREC)

Manning Ranch in western North Dakota.

They are Angus and Red Angus seedstock producers who sell long-age yearling bulls cowboy auction-style in early December.

In addition, Dukart is a Sustainable Agriculture Research Education (SARE) cooperator.

Derrick Dukart began using cover crops in 2008: seeding multiple seed species onto cropland to feed life into the soil and increase soil health.

Of course, planting and grazing cover crops takes planning. For example, one year he ran 43 cow/calf pairs on a 30-acre field of winter triticale and hairy vetch as supplemental grazing in June. Then he seeded a pulse crop of lentils, forage peas, radishes, purple-top turnips, pearl millet,

Derrick Dukart, Manning, N.D., displays a radish root from his cover crop. The radishes are eaten by cattle and wildlife or stay in the ground for bio-drillling, capturing nutrients for the next year’s crop.

284 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

red clover and oats. He turned 10 yearling heifers into that cover crop in mid-October. The first week in November he added 30 cows that grazed it until December 4. “It was a nutrient-dense forage that fleshed the cattle up,” he says.

He left that field to rot away until midMay the following year when he seeded grain corn that grew to be “knee-high by the Fourth of July,” Dukart says. In early October the family harvested 65-bushel corn and then grazed about 35 cows for 45 days on the corn stubble.

In the years since, other cover crops have featured the above noted seeds plus sorghum sudan, rape seed and up to 49 varieties of wildflowers.

In 2014 he seeded a full-season cover crop of cowpeas, soybeans, mung beans, vetch, red clover, pearl millet, sorghum sudan, radishes and other species. At other times Dukart has planted a mix of field peas and barley for grazing.

He finds that a rotation of grain corn one year and a cover crop the next lends itself to crop diversity that helps control weeds and produces mineralized nitrogen. “That mix of crops is creating an excellent soil interface,” he says.

In planning his crop and grazing rotations, Dukart puts together seed mixes in the winter, utilizing a website called www. greencoverseed.com. “I put in the parameters and it kicks out indexes,” he explains.

“The internet is a wonderful tool.”

But just because a producer plans, that doesn’t mean the plan is set in stone. In 2013 Dukart planned to plant a particular 30-acre field to corn, but due to extremely wet conditions, seeded a cover crop of buckwheat, sorghum sudan and radishes on June 16 instead.

He notes that a second wire is used as a back fence in the event of wire failure. He points out an obvious consideration: strip grazing increases utilization, but also increases management.

Of course, the main reason to plant and graze cover crops is to improve soil health. “Our goal is to put as much litter and residue back onto the field as possible and we’re using cattle to accomplish that,” he says. “We want to retain moisture and keep the soil covered,” which increases soil biological activity.

$1.50

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Volume 51 • Issue 50

Saturday, December 14, 2013

2 Sections

FARM BILL IN LIMBO

Corn’s role in beef’s future

By Loretta Sorensen for Tri-State Livestock News While falling corn prices can’t hurt livestock owners, this is not your grandfather’s cattle market and lowered grain prices won’t have the same effect on today’s market that they would have even five years ago.

Shrinking cow herds, high calf prices, a growing range of feed options and uncertainties of the politics surrounding beef production will all play a role in how beef production will move forward.

Kansas State University Associate Professor of Economics, Glynn Tonsor, says eventual expansion of beef production is likely to be one change resulting from the lower prices. But it won’t happen overnight.

“Given the biological lag, expectations are that pork

Lemmons says new legislation not likely in 2014

“It’s a revolving door,” Dukart explains.

“The more you try the more you learn. And what works for me may not work for you.”

He adds, “No two years are the same. We go with the flow. If it’s really dry we may not seed a cover crop. But if it looks like there’s moisture coming we might get the drill out and seed.”

As for grazing practices, one fall they grazed 28 long-yearling bulls on a 16-acre field for 15 days. “They were really active and worked the field pretty hard,” Dukart says, noting that the cattle quickly knock down and stomp the crops, eating all along the way.

Sometimes Dukart utilizes strip grazing, giving cows access to only about threefourths of an acre of forage per day for 30 days. Dukart installs galvanized hotwire the length of a field, one poly wire on a spooled reel and step-in posts across the field. “There’s no heavy work,” Dukart assures. “We roll the wire up with a roller once a day. Then we step a post in with our feet, walk 600-700 feet across the field and string it back out for the next day. It’s pretty simple.”

A side benefit of planting and grazing cover crops is abundant wildlife.

“We’ve got a family of deer that loves to be in the cover crop field bedding down.”

He adds, “Deer and rabbits nibble on the radishes while the radishes are bio-drilling down, capturing nutrients for next year’s crop.” That means Dukart typically doesn’t fertilize cover crops and as soil health increases, may not fertilize cash crops either.

“I want the roots to do the work for me,” he explains.

By Amanda Radke for Tri-State Livestock News The weather isn’t the only thing that’s cold these days. The farm bill has cooled to icy temperatures, and many farmers and ranchers are in limbo about how to plan their operations for the upcoming year without certainty of a safety net.

Tim Lemmons, University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL) Extension educator, presented an update on the farm bill at the 2013 AG-ceptional Women’s Conference in Norfolk, Neb, on Nov. 22. His comments answered some burning questions about the state of the farm bill and what producers need to know.

“If there is no action on the farm bill, we will revert to the last permanent legislation; this is because of the Agriculture Adjustment Act of 1938 and 1949” Lemmons explained. “This would mean a loss of direct payments (DP) and counter-cyclical payments (CCP). Once commodity quotas go into place, the USDA Secretary of Agriculture decides how many acres of each crop are grown and dishes those out to the states to allocate to the farmers in direct payments. He also decides on a permanent price sup-

port for given crops either by loan, purchase or other operation.”

Currently, the farm bill is in a two-year extension of the 2008 farm bill, until a Senate and House proposal can be passed for a new farm bill to be instated.

“2014 is an election year, and very few decisions are made during an election year,” he added. “Currently, there is an existing price safety net through marketing loans and loan deficiency payments (ML/LDP), as well as DP and CCP. A trigger price occurs when the marketing year average for a particular commodity falls below a predetermined value. The marketing year for 2012 began on Sept. 1, 2012, and continued until Aug. 31, 2013.

The marketing year for 2013 begins

“Cover crops are improving our soil quality and they’re great for fall cattle grazing,” Dukart concludes, noting that he and his family are attaining their overall goals to learn by educating themselves, to try new things, to care – about people, animals and land – and to stay on the land while living a great life.

By Carrie Stadheim Managing Editor and Staff Journalist

on Sept. 1, 2013, and continues to Aug. 31, 2014.”

One thing to keep in mind is 84 percent of the farm bill goes to the nutrition bill; 7 percent to crop insurance; 4 perent to commodity; and 5 percent to conservation, Lemmons explained.

“Currently, the 2014-2023 baseline for commodities is $58.8 billion; the House proposal (HR1947) will cut

Over a half million dollars from producers, auction barns, local businesses and concerned folks from one side of the country to the other will be added to pot to help ranchers blasted by storm “Atlas.”

What started as a $35,000 gift from First Interstate Bank turned into $520,000 in support of relief efforts for ranchers affected by the early October storm that killed tens of thousands of head of cattle, sheep and horses across Western South Dakota and neighboring states.

-Farm bill on Page A2 -

- See Rollover on Page A2 -

INSIDE THIS WEEK

The Publication Ranchers Pay To Read BEEF TALK

VET’S VOICE

Bulls and the bitter cold are not a good mix

Now is the time to prepare for calving.

A5

OUTSIDE CIRCLE

Brazile wins his 19th World Championship

A8

B7

BAXTER BLACK

ALAN GUEBERT

A discussion of animal husbandry

“Rarely gather unless there’s food served.”

A4

The Cows Behind

REMUDA ROUND-UP

Hawkins back on the horse

A4

B6

“The Source”

December 21, 2013 • 11 a.m.

Winner Livestock Auction in Winner, SD

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view/bid live on the internet:

He sometimes puts down a starter fertilizer on a cover crop field and a little nitrogen, but his goal is to use as little as possible in the future to reduce inputs. “We’ll do a soil test to see where we’re at,” he says.

- See Future on Page A6 -

Rollover auctions net over a half million

31250 265th Street • Ideal, SD 57541-9230 1-800-548-BULL • 605-842-3217

• Published Weekly • Livestock Market Reports & Directory • Industry News & Feature Stories • Event & Sale Calenders • Livestock & Equine Event Coverage • Production Sale Reports • Professional Ring Service • Catalog & Flyer Printing • Audited & Verified Circulation • Classified Advertising • Special Editions & Feature Sections

1-877-347-9114 • 605-723-7001 • FAX: 1-877-347-9126 1501 5TH AVE. SUITE 101, BELLE FOURCHE, SD 57717

WWW.TSLN.COM THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • 285

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Malek Angus Ranch Bull Sale

THE SECOND ANNUAL 2:00 PM • THURSDAY, MARCH 19, 2015 AT THE RANCH IN HIGHWOOD, MONTANA 100 HEAD SELLING SELLING SONS OF: CAPITALIST, TEN X, 20X, FORTITUDE, DYNASTY, CONFIDENCE

Semen Available SYDGEN FATE 2800 AAA 17521423

TR MR ABERDEEN 1068Y AAA 17074729

CED +7 MARB +.81

BW WW YW -.9 +61 +109 RE $W $F $G +.80 +61.44 +63.25 +43.75

MILK +31 $B +130.27

10769568R FATE is the kind of “no holes” bull that can make a lasting Malek Angus contribution to the breed, and brings EPD and genomic profiles that C=1 M=1 Y=1 Otherwill help add value to his progeny are virtually every measurable Sarah Swenson, 1SD09 trait. FATE ranks above the top 10% of all non-parents for 14 of the

17 EPD’s and bio-economic indexes, and is above the top 25% for all of them. Co-Owned with Bo Slovek, Philip, SD

PA FORTITUDE 2500 AAA 17418539 CED BW WW YW MILK +12 +.7 +65 +117 +25 MARB RE $W $F $G $B +.46 +.93 +56.54 +70.78 +36.53 +94.99 Bred for sleep-all-night calving ease and high altitude adaptability, there’s not another Angus bull anywhere that can match the Diamond TC Aberdeen low birth weight heritage and outstanding phenotype.

Stacks 14 consecutive dams in his pedigree all the way back to 1931 with the Jamie Stevenson herd foundation with minus BW EPDs. The dam (BW -5.3), grandam (BW -5.0) and great-grandam (BW -2.1) start a long list of sure-fire calving ease predictability. His popular sire, TC Aberdeen, is the king of low birth/big ribeye genetics that has excelled in feed efficiency and producing thick, correct, functional cattle that work successfully in rugged conditions.

CED BW WW YW MILK +11 -1.4 +65 +120 +27 MARB RE $W $F $G $B +.62 +.87 +64.24 +77.81 +41.31 +109.31 Fortitude is unique in that he will add thickness, muscle, performance, calving ease, growth, as well as marbling and ribeye, while reducing external fat. With incredible individual performance, few bulls in his tough contemporary group were able to compete with him. He will be an excellent mating on ND, Objective and Predestined influenced female. Co-Owned with Bo Slovek, Philip, SD

MALEK ANGUS RANCH

22700 Highwood Road • Highwood, MT 59450 • Ty Malek (406) 899-4360 • Dan Konen (406) 781-1344 mtbeef@3rivers.net

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ne: www.tsln

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2 Sections Issue 51 Volume 51 •

1963-2013

ber 21, 2013 Saturday, Decem

Remuda

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Roundup

Finishing th e

NDSU Riders

Tri-State Livest

ock News Saturd ay, April

season stron

named reserv e high-point

12, 2014 D1

North Dakot equestrian teama State University’s finished its regula show season r as reserve high-p the Zone 7 Region 3 oint “I am extrem team. team’s perfor ely pleased with the mance this year,” Tara Swanson, the team’s coach. says had a fairly young “We team, but they and inexperienced growth throug showed remarkable hout the course year.” of the Four members of the team partic pated in the iZone nal competition 7 Region 3 semifiMarch 29-30 Texas A&M at West Unive Texas. They compe rsity in Canyon, ted in prelim rounds March inary 29, and all vanced to the four adfinals the follow ing day. ished establ times many NDSU team markets. He has placings at semifimembers and their the region’s cattleeditor, Hereford America iss, knowledge on nals r is a wealth of horses. Photo by Jill Hotchk Hailey Aagar were: and Reva, S.D., ranche Wadena, Minn. d, a junior from auctioneer and ry’s most elite purebred bulls - first in beginn world-renowned indust horsemanship er Lynn Weishaar, as well as the for feeder cattle Janna Rice, record prices ts a junior from Maddock et - repor third in mark y the weekl ship l market advanced horsemanfascin ation . to compare crucia .. challe nge and week.

Ashley and each Lindell, a senior paper you love, Solway, Minn. from You do what be given the data in the Staff Journalist sevent and r h to in Edito is open manship,tehonora hope horseso do we. | Managing Tri-Sta Live- ble mention in n’s premier your tunity to do it again toSTADHEIM reinAccording toing er Morris

By CARRIE oppor , S.D., the regio foundCami nings in St. Onge Tri-State Livestock News morrow. stock News’ built ugh, a junior was Slauba after its begin you have al- Hallock, the paper Wolford, Minn.

- seventh in intermfrom The fact that ring alf a century continues to look forward. on the issues that matter. delive ate se of to horsem ate Lives tock edianship and focused se we make it our business ses to relowed Tri-St part of this on the premi etRice ag publication news and Aagard a becau succes ected to our roots timely markthe Interc Black will advance to News to be remains connbecome “what ranchers read” . Your successes become our 50 years, is producers. ollegiate last cattle l the Horse for giona in region has Show ride, ciation barns ghout the Tri-State ation to share. auctio’sn Nation a privilege. We al Horse Show Asson barns throu market inform May in Belle an honor and ng more than Hills, S.D.,Sturg in early and burg, cers and auctio h for giving us news and is Harris nothi Onge, listen to produ to seePa. Members of first team somehow. hope for thank you enoug bor, con- St. he wereThe thefour NDSU’s equest members earne and we can’t on, some way, l in this to be a good neigh their Fourc rian team display curspots soluti d Pictured (from news at the semifi g their sharin the ribbons they are crucia nals by plac- Courtesy photo left) are team members Janna deals on handing to provide the first or the value of via the it is. You make stick to them. Neighbors tssecond Rice, Cami Slauba received at the Zone ck is not tinuing at the Zone you need to t repor gion 7 Region 3 semifin feeders, aucyou 7 Reugh, Hailey Aagard vor. Your livesto 3 regional champ information We rent marke Teams are assign The ranchers, other small shakes and l source of and uences. endea and Ashley Lindell al competition in Texas.

- ionships held at the Unive sful business. r the conseq fam- only your annua ed randomly , and coach Tara rsityA12 one of 50 Years on Page of Wisconsin-R source run a succes - SeeFalls seek out tion barns and comprise the No matte Swanson.

“The semifinals on March 2. iver dividu the three semifinals. Each to e but your daily humor, understand that you generations of riders fought al class has 18 in- to gain businesses that not only feed You build know an honest incom ation, hard determ frustr qualifi ed riders. agains their spots in the of pride, beauty, placings amoun ination and a treme cattle industry are the life- ilies that t tough compe When you dis- education, creativity, ndous t they work. , a day’s says. world the “These individ tition,” Swanson couldn of talent in their rides, and m, you create unities that ’t be more proud uals showed poise, I blood of the commnation what cover a proble of –NDSU Ag Commthem.” F make this great unications

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INSIDE THI

BEEF TALK

and Bull buying lth using a wea on of informati A5

E BARBED WIR

BAXTER BLACK

REMUDA ROUND-UP

r 55th Wrangle ls National Fina Rodeo

Shepherd’s Christmas reunion

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Christmas of this yesterday in mn week’s colu

BEHIND THE CHUTES Spotlight on Brianna Williams

A4

A4

Sale Angus Bull

Perf pril 26 in Fo ormance horse rt Collins, Co lo.

•Learning pedigr ee research metho ds •Writing substa ntive, top-notch alog notes cat-

Jerry B Black, Land & Livest DVM, Wagonhound AQHA lins, Colo.

A2 -Fort Colock, Chair in Ranching Herita - See Beef on Page Sciences Equine If a Dear Friend ge Breed s: horse is nomin When this sale ated or enroll er. at least some •Mark ed, Schedule: ago, none could started nine years indust eting and promoting been made intoor all payments have a horse have foreseen ry event Saturday, April dicted where or prespecific indivi the program for that it stands today.

19, 9 a.m. – Wagon dual. Find more hound Land The sale itself - matio & •Inter Competition Livestock Co. Student the n about this great prograinforreputation, and has grown in size and buyers acting with consig nors and AQHA’s websit m on we are proud Friday, April marketplace e. position it holds. of the 25, Our buyers 5:30 p.m.

Mills Consig – Purina understand Change, of course nors’ Accommodat consignors suppor this, , is inevita SIDE ions: Saturday, April Dinner Regarding t this, and our our OUT Host sor committee this sale, howevble.

26, 9 .a.m – advi- Horse takes pride in constant remain Sale “Choi Hotel – Hilton Fort Collin er, one Preview & 1 LE s: the this.

We constantly ce Hotel for CIRC p.m. – Horse Lunch will portan challenge ourselv Sale Unive Colorado States ce of the studen paramount im- ensure be available es to tered their meani ts’ participation and ca- 425 rsity’s Friends and Famil and growth . Buck and they consist ngful participation Team by the CSU Meat Annual W. Prospect ies” Judging fortco 970-482-2626 ently rise to the What really on New www.

Thus, our llins.hilton.c test.

Ballmatters in this sale and the View the 2014 not what om is be somew measures of success may horses Sale hat different Catalog at Eve bring, but what who the studen Yearts’slearn. from others http:/ /webd oc.ags ci.col Catalog: evaluate the ostate .edu/ equin e/Web B10 While everyo results and -LOR -Cata The online of a horse sale. progress www.p log-20 14B6 ages and high-s ne may talk of averdf sale catalog version of the 2014 Natur is available the hands-on ellers, the real value is smoot ally, we want it now. would like to education they to run hly, and receive a hard If you If you are intere receive.

Student Exper please call 970-49 and buyers to for consignors to sell young copy, iences: sted in a specifi obtain horses 1-8373.

•Those first few c value. at good a CSU horse that is being traine rides in a trainin class d by student, please g Online biddin Still, the educat contac Snyde g now availa ble: Register to and their experi ion of our students forma r at 970-491-8547 for t John bid more in- SWB •Observing young ences are the tion.

Auction here: online through real, horses in a new long-term payoffs for environment http: //csuequine. buyers, consig auctionserve ors, the indust nr.net/ ry and the studen Ranching herita Thank you for ts.

Many of our ge challenge •Realizing the Horse transp continued suppor your consistent and are consigned horse day-to-day work ortation: prep 29 young eligible, nomin t of our studen s to our progra If you plan sale horses ts and in the ated m. to purchase AQHA Ranch or enrolled and need a horse ing Herita transportati Challenge progra on, please m. To be eligib ge browse through our horses must list of availa le, equine have been bred ble transportatio by an n companies.

F –Colorado State University

SAMPLE OF OUR TSLN SPECIAL EDITIONS: 1-877-347-9100 • www.tsln.com

14 January 23, 20

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A P U B L I C AT I O N O F

January 31 - February 9, 2014

AGPride 2013

A N N U A L P R E M I E R P U B L I C AT I O N A TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS PUBLICATION

• Published Weekly • Livestock Market Reports & Directory • Industry News & Feature Stories • Event & Sale Calendars • Livestock & Equine Event Coverage • Production Sale Reports

2014 EDITION, VOLUME XII

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1-877-347-9100 • www.tsln.com Reaching more than 23,000 Readers Weekly

Your customers are our readers 2013 READER SURVEY RESULTS

92

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of our press run is distributed to paid subscribers, and most have received the paper for over 15 years.

87

%

of subscribers live in the Dakotas, Montana, Wyoming, and Nebraska â&#x20AC;&#x201C; though we have subscribers in every state in the nation, and many foreign countries around the world!

92%

own their ranches and 75% have lived in their current residence for longer than 25 years.

90

of our readers are livestock producers, predominantly registered and commercial 250-500+ cow-calf operations.

%

*Source: Tri-State Livestock News 2013 Reader Survey, Write Brain West

90

%

of our readers use natural service, with 40% also utilizing Artificial Insemination & Embryo Transfer methods.

Most operations are family run operating on large acreages 5,000 acres or more.

78

%

59 76% %

of our readers forecast to average $3,500-4,500 on buying bulls, and 74% will travel in excess of 350 miles to find the right genetics, program, and quality. retain their own replacements. of our readers utilize horses on their operations, the majority owning 5-10 head.

. . .

D E T WAN

Ranchers with lonely cows

THORSTENSON GELBVIEH & ANGUS 34th Annual Production Sale Saturday, March 7, 2015 - At the Ranch Selling 200 Gelbvieh, Angus & Balancer Bulls Most are Feed Efficiency tested Exciting progeny from these herdsires sell.

BEA Common Sense 200Z ET AMGV 1232187

CED: 9 BW: 1.6 WW: 70 YW: 109 Milk: 34 MARB: 0.29 REA: 0.48 FPI: 77.67 Brian & DeDee

Vaughn & Wendy

THORSTENSON GELBVIEH & ANGUS

Woodhill Daybreak U280-X20 AMGV 16706194 BW: -2.2 WW: +57 YW: +112 Milk: +24 REA: +.69 Mb: +0.51

THORSTENSON Gelbvieh & Angus

VAUGHN & WENDY BRIAN & DEDEE 605-649-6262 605-649-9927 FAX: 605-649-7361 EMAIL: vwthor@sbtc.net www.BalancerBulls.com

Clip & mail for FREE 2015 Sale Book Name: ________________________________ Address: ______________________________ City: __________________________________ State: ___________ Zip: _________________ Mail to: Thorstenson Gelbvieh & Angus 12980 Cedar Rd, Selby, SD 57472

Best in the Midwest Bull Sale Reppe Ranch Annual Bull Sale

Tuesday, February 17, 2015 • 1:00 PM Bradley, SD

Selling 140 Outstanding Registered Angus bulls 100 Yearlings 40 - Fall Born 18 Month Old

R5 Mercenary 1187 BW +3.9 WW +69 YW +118 Milk +22 $B +105.77

R5 Monument 087-25 sons Connealy Cavalry- 15 sons Connealy Confidence- 15 sons Connealy Capitalist- 12 sons SAV Final Answer- 12 sons Sitz Upward- 10 sons S Chisum- 10 sons Connealy Right Answer 578B- 10 sons R5 Mercenary 1187- 10 sons R5 Chuckwagon 1369- 8 sons Tombstone-6 sons Werner War Party-6 sons Reppe Ranch currently runs over 1,000 registered Angus females in ranch country.

We have a strict culling program where dams have to be structurally sound, good uttered, easy fleshing, docile, and most of all have great mothering abilities.

R5 Monument 087 BW +1.1 WW +62 YW +117 Milk +26 $B +96.85

Bulls kept for sale are strictly culled. They will be able to go out and perform in about any environment without being pampered.

REPPE RANCH 15534 417th Ave • Conde, SD 57434

Ranch: 605-382-5277 • Adam Cell: 605-520-3239 reppeadam@hotmail.com

Raising high-quality cattle since 1975

Feed & Forage

Benefits and Drawbacks of Native Species Versus Introduced Forages

By Heather Smith Thomas Photos by Ryan Beer

292 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

O

n many ranches, the difference between profit and loss is in the grass.

When cattle can harvest their own food, it’s cheaper than putting up hay/grain and feeding it to them. Grass is the crop we focus on—marketing it through our cattle.

One way to increase that profitability is to extend the grazing seasons in northern climates, so cattle can graze longer without needing hay. It depends on weather (whether forage snows under, inaccessible for grazing—a problem that can be minimized

with windrow grazing and bale grazing) and the forage species. Some make better winter feed than others, and some make good early spring feed, greening up sooner.

Shawn Weishaar, a certified real estate appraiser in North and South Dakota who ranchers near Lemmon, South Dakota, says there are advantages and disadvantages to introduced species like crested wheatgrass.

“In our area the biggest drawback to introduced species like smooth brome, crested wheat and Kentucky bluegrass is their tendency to spread and invade native prairie,” says Weishaar.

The native prairie is ideal grazing because it contains a variety of grasses and forbs and provides the most balanced and nutritious diet for grazing animals. Any time you have a monoculture like crested wheatgrass or any other planted species, there is less diversity of diet for the animals. Sometimes it’s nice to have an early spring pasture—to save the native grasslands and let them get a better start before grazing. “Smooth brome and crested wheat were purposely seeded during the 1930s and for CRP to reclaim lands that had been farmed or overgrazed and no longer had native species,” he explains.

Those areas needed to be planted with forage species rather than taken over by weeds.

South Dakota Farmers Union Est. 1915

2015 S.D. Farmers Union Young Producers Event Agenda WHEN: JANUARY 30 – 31, 2015

Where: The Lodge at Deadwood, Deadwood, S.D. (100 Pine Crest Lane, Deadwood, SD 57732) FRIDAY JAN. 30, 2015 ~ Mountain Time Zone 3 p.m.

Check-in/Registration 5 p.m.

Social hour 6 p.m.

Supper with S.D. Secretary of Agriculture, Lucas Lentsch 7 p.m.

Precision Ag: Utilizing Drones, Aaron Franzen, Assistant Professor in Ag & Bio Systems Engineering at South Dakota State University.

8 p.m.

Downtown Deadwood Scavenger Hunt

SATURDAY JAN. 31, 2015 9 a.m.

Breakfast with Dustin Oedekoven, South Dakota State Veterinarian 10 a.m.

Doug Sombke, S.D. Farmers Union President 10:50 a.m. DuWayne Bosse, co-owner of Bolt Marketing, LLC 1:15 p.m. Malcom Chapman 2:15 p.m. New Farm Bill Discussion 3:30 p.m. Jeff and Rachel Kippley Farm Tax info for 2015

*Speakers are subject to change. Limited space available, Contact Karla Hofhenke to reserve your spot today! 605-352-6761 Ext. 114

www.sdfu.org THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • 293

Booth’s Cherry Creek Angus ANNUAL

Progress Through Performance Bull Sale Sale Date: Thursday, February 12, 2015 At the ranch in Veteran, WY Lunch: Noon • Sale Time: 1 p.m.

Selling 180 Yearling and Fall Bulls 90 OF THE BULLS WILL BE PAP TESTED AFTER SPENDING THE SUMMER AT 8,000’ Featuring sons of:

Basin Credence X951

CED: +14 BW: -0.2 WW: +56 YW: +102 M: +29 Marb: +.71 RE: +.90 He was the second high selling bull of the 2012 Montana Performance Bull Coop sale. His Dam is a flush sister to Hoover Dam who is enrolled in ABS Global.

Only three other current sires or non-parent bulls can match his EPD profile for CED, BW, Performance, RADG, Scrotal and Carcass Traits.

Booth’s Cherry Creek Angus

Shawn & Diane 307-837-2994 • boothangus@scottsbluff.net Michael & Lindsy 307-837-0164 • Kacey 307-532-1532 294 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

Ken Olson, PhD, PAS, extension beef specialist, South Dakota State University, says that many of the introduced forage species are cool season grasses that tend to green up earlier in the spring than native grasses.

“These early season grasses were brought to this country because they proved themselves in Europe and Asia as being very tolerant of abusive grazing. They were brought in to heal badly damaged pastures or old cropland that needed to go back to grass,” he says.

“They can take the grazing pressure in the spring, which lets us allow the native range to become ready for grazing later in the spring. This is the value of introduced cool season grasses,” he says. The challenge is that they are almost always planted as monocultures, which do not provide the most balanced and complete diet for the grazing animal through the season.

“In order for the animal to select a high quality diet with a good plane of nutrition, you need a mix of forage plants. The monoculture is great for those windows of time when they are highly nutritious in early spring—or after a period of regrowth in a rotation system if they are grazed again in the fall—but they create nutritional challenges the rest of the year,” says Olson.

“Introduced species have become a management problem in some federal grasslands and even some private lands, encroaching on native prairie,” says Weishaar.

“Kentucky bluegrass moved in on its own; I don’t know of anyone who actually planted it. It may have come in with hay. It provides early spring grazing, but does tend to spread.”

“If we don’t graze our native rangelands, they are not as vigorous as they should be, and non-native species will move into them. Grazing is very important to maintain health of the range; it evolved being grazed (by bison and other grazers) and is healthiest when properly grazed.”

Join us for our 17th Annual Bull sale

THURSDAY, MARCH 5, 2015 1:00 P.M. CT • AT THE RANCH, DRAPER, SD

Selling

5

2 YEAR OLD BULLS

&

80

20

FALL BULLS

YEARLING BULLS

In 2007 we had the opportunity to purchase 100 head of cows from the Leo Howard herd.

These cows have been a big building block in the expansion of both our numbers and the genetic advancement of our registered cowherd.

FEATURED

SIRES WMR Timeless 458 Mogck Bullseye 691 VAR Reserve 1111 EXAR Upshot 0562B Connealy Counselor 060L

Connealy Confidence 0100

A A R Ten X 7008 SA

Mohnen Long Haul 502

Dave & Kathy Fuoss & Mike Fuoss I-90 Exit 201 at Draper, 12 miles north, 2 1/2 miles east Draper, SD • (H) 605-669-2127 (C) 605-280-3246 Mike Fuoss 605-280-0600 dave_fuoss@hotmail.com

Feed & Forage Winter Grazing The cool season grasses are better for winter grazing than warm season grasses in terms of protein levels. “The warm season grasses, once they are mature and dry, may drop as low as 2 to 4 percent crude

protein level. In terms of protein value they are similar to wheat straw or any of the cereal straws,” says Olson. “The cool season grasses are in the 5 to 8 percent range, which makes them borderline deficient versus tremendously deficient.”

Some of the introduced species like Russian wild-rye, orchardgrass and meadow brome provide better nutrition than others in winter. “Many of the introduced species have more than one variety. Some varieties are better than others because they have been selectively bred for higher protein levels,” explains Olson.

“Some of the more recently released varieties of Russian wild-rye hold their value better through winter. When planting a mix for optimal nutrition, there are also some forb and shrub species we can add to introduced species mixes that will improve their value.”

“We have a little Russian wild-rye and the cows really like it,” says Weishaar. “It is a little more difficult to establish than some species, but fairly hardy once it gets growing. In our own operation we graze crop aftermath and hayfields. We typically winter graze into January depending on how much snow we get. Our Russian wild-rye is probably one of the best species for winter grazing because it has a higher protein level than most grasses after it is mature and dry.”

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th 2626th26 thTH ANNUAL 26ANNUAL ANNUAL ANNUAL

Bull Sale Bull Sale Bull Sale Friday, Friday,February February13, 13,2015 2015

Friday, February 13, 2015

1 p.m.

MST 1 p.m.

MST

Bowman Auction Market • Bowman,ND ND Bowman Auction • Bowman, 1 p.m.

MST Market

All of us at Auction HoneymanMarket • Bowman, ND AllBowman of us at Honeyman Charolais would like to thank Allbid ofus usatattobought Honeyman Charolais would like thankbulls Charolais would like to Honeyman everyoneAll whoof and thank everyone who bid and bought bulls from our everyone who bid and bought fromCharolais our 25th Anniversary would likebulls toSale thank 25th Anniversary Sale last February. Thanks to our last25th February.

Thanks to our from our Anniversary Sale manywho repeat and new customers, everyone bid and bought bulls it was a huge success! repeat and new customers, We would like toit wish everyone a a lastmany February.

Thanks to our fromwas our Anniversary huge success!

Happy and Prosperous many repeat anda25th new customers, it Sale New Year.

Welast would like to wish everyone February.

Thanks to our a huge a awas Happy andsuccess!

Prosperous New manylike repeat and new customers, it We would toYear. wish everyone a huge success! a a Happy andwas Prosperous New Year.like to wish everyone We would

Reeder, ND Reeder, ND Reeder, ND 

SELLING SELLING



SELLING  PUREBREDYEARLING YEARLING PUREBRED 

PUREBRED Bulls YEARLING 60 Charolais Charolais Bulls

60 Charolais Bulls

2 LONG YEARLINGS AND 2 COMING 2YR. OLD BULLS

Ryan Beer, rangeland management specialist with the USDA Natural Resource Conservation Service in Bison, South Dakota, says most native forages keep their protein levels better than most of the tame grasses, with the exception of Russian wildrye. “This is one of the introduced grasses that we’ve seeded that will keep the protein better after it goes dormant. The problem with Russian wild-rye is that it doesn’t produce as much as some of the other tame grasses and mixtures.”

a a Happy and Prosperous New

HC Honey Timid 916 with her 2014 Year. bull calf HC Gain & Grade 4101

4101 will be one of the top prospects.

HC Honey Timid 916 with her 2014 bull calf HC Gain Grade 4101 HC&Honey Timid 916 with her 2014 4101 will be one of the top prospects. bull calf HC Gain & Grade 4101 4101 will be one of the top prospects.

HC Honey Timid 916 with her 2014 bull calf HCOther Gain & Grade 4101Sires: Herd 4101Thomas will be one top prospects.

Mr. ofWytheWind 3647 • RC Westport 9401

DCR Mr. Morton Y15 EC Cash Flow 4026 • HC Hotline 849 Eatons Paycheck 20078 • EC High Tech 7046

With many grasses, when precipitation stops and they stop growing, they become coarse cows don’t like them. They do best when grazed earlier in the season, and can be grazed relatively hard. “Sometimes we take too good care of it (not enough grazing) and it gets coarse, with a lot of wolf plants.

If you don’t graze the prairie, brome and crested wheat will move in,” he said.

RCB Gain & Grade S036

His sons have been our top-selling sire group for four years running. We have sold 53 of his sons through our sales in the past four years that averaged $5,830. Several sons sell on Feb.13.

RCB Gain & Grade S036

His sons have been our top-selling sire group for four

running.

We have sold 53 of his200 sons through Bulls fed free until Apr. 1 -years Free delivery within miles sales in the past four years that averaged $5,830.

Bulls will be semenour tested before Several sons sell on Feb.13.delivery

Ryan & Rhonda Honeyman and Family

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“We are also using a cicer milkvetch, another non-bloat legume that produces fairly well, with good protein levels. The drawback is that late in the year it gets stemmy and cattle might not like it. If you winter graze, you are usually better off using native pastures than any type of tame seeding mixture. Sometimes producers stockpile native pastures and save them for fall and winter grazing. In some areas, however, we’re getting a lot of warm season grasses in the pasture and we encourage producers to graze them lightly during summer to

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utilize those plants because they won’t have as much value in winter. For instance the little bluestem (the red grass on sidehills) won’t be utilized at all by cattle during winter; it’s best grazed in summer,” he says.

Producers have several options and the best choice will depend on their own operations. “Crested wheat, brome, etc. are maybe not as high in protein during winter as native species, but cattle use it. All of it er.

Nutritionists tell us protein level around 8 percent is what cattle need for maintenance. “Most forages will be around 5 percent or less in winter, but some wild-rye species are around 7 percent. It’s nice if you don’t need to buy a protein supplement, and smaller cow size helps. Some of the small cows are more efficient and can do better on a lower plane of nutrition. The smallframed cattle of earlier years managed fine-before protein supplements and balers were invented,” he says.

aren’t ideal through the whole grazing season.” They are better in a mix.

“Even a simple mix such as one grass species and one legume species makes a huge difference (since the legume tends to have higher protein levels, especially later in the season). The more complexity we can create in the mix, the better off we are in terms of providing a good diet for livestock,” says Olson.

When we seed a pasture we usually use a mix of grasses and sometimes add a legume for higher protein levels. For this purpose we often add a grazing alfalfa, and some producers are putting in a yellow-blossom alfalfa. It’s not as likely to cause bloat and matures later in the year.”

“Generally when we do a tame seeding, we now use a mix,” says Beer. “We often put in pubescent wheatgrass and meadow brome, depending on the soil type. The meadow brome is really good in terms of regrowth, depending on moisture. You can graze it early in the season, and graze it again later.

Every region has native species unique to that area. Some plains grasslands have winterfat and four-wing saltbush. “We’ve planted these in a test plot here, along with forage kochia. The kochia has a higher protein and looks a bit like green sagewort and is more of a shrub than the kochia we are used to. Some of these forages may provide more options for producers in different parts of the country,” he says.

There is also research looking at different varieties of sagebrush, some of which are palatable to livestock certain times of year and may provide more protein than grass.

Benefits of Mixed Species Native pasture in good condition is ideal feed; the wide diversity of plant species gives grazing animals a chance to select from a variety of plants. They can change their selection as the season progresses, choosing something that still has a high protein level late in the season, for instance, when the early plants become overly mature. “This diversity allows them to maintain a better plane of nutrition,” Olson says.

“The introduced species by themselves

THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • 299

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Feed & Forage

Jerry Doan

Winter Grazing to Improve the Bottom Line on the Black Leg Ranch

By Colette “Koko” Gjermundson

I

t’s heritage that makes Jerry Doan a rancher. But it’s effort and focus that determine whether he and his family make a profit and enjoy life.

Jerry, his wife, Renae, their four grown children – Shanda, Jeremy, Jay, Jayce – and their families operate the fifth-generation Black Leg Ranch near McKenzie, North Dakota. Jerry’s great grandfather arrived from Canada, homesteading in southern Burleigh County in central North Dakota in 1882.

His grandfather was the first producer to

Jerry Doan and his family operate the fifth-generation Black Leg Ranch near McKenzie, N.D., where his four main goals in perpetuating a multi-generational ranch are diversification, sustainability, profitability and quality of life.

bring Angus genetics into a predominantly Hereford area in 1930, earning the ranch its unique name. “We have a lot of pride in that history,” Jerry Doan says. “I want to pass the land on in better shape that it was in when I took over.”

On his journey toward intensive grazing Doan twice took Allan Savory’s management courses. As a land-grant university graduate and a staunch research supporter he adds with a big grin, “I think if we had

holistic classes in universities we’d all be a lot smarter.”

Doan’s four main goals in perpetuating a multi-generational ranch are: •Diversification: He seeks diversity in grazing systems and multi-species cover crops. A second kind of diversity is in a ranch that includes a cow/calf operation, yearlings, fee hunting and full-fledged agritourism through Rolling Plains Adventures.

“Diversification helps us stack interrelated enterprises but helps us not have all of our eggs in the commodity basket,” Doan says.

•Sustainability: Focusing on soil health to increase land productivity is what led Doan to intensive grazing and cover crops.

“I want that ranch to be sustainable so I can pass it on,” he says.

•Profitability: “Sometimes we’re so busy chasing production we forget about profitability,” he adds. Though some traditionalists lean toward the idea that ranching can be a non-profitable venture, Doan says, “I don’t accept that as fact.”

THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • 301

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302 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

Feed & Forage

•Quality of life: “In agriculture we’re sometimes so intense about producing we forget how important quality of life is,” he explains. “I’ve got friends and relatives who don’t get to their kids’ ball games or go on a camping trip because they’re so focused on agriculture.”

He warns that seasonal grazing performance numbers are always going to be as good or better than rotational grazing.

“Why is that? It’s because you’re constantly over-grazing and under-grazing, allowing those animals to constantly graze regrowth.

That’s going to kick your performance up.”

In an effort to reach these four goals, Doan uses intensive grazing and cover crops to cut winter feed costs for cattle, build soil health and propagate wildlife.

For example, Aug. 25, 2011, Doan turned yearlings into fairly mature, non-grazed native range. The Texas A & M NUTBAL Nutrition Balance Analyzer reported an estimated average daily gain (ADG) of 1.45 pounds. On Sept. 5, he turned those yearlings into greener, lusher native range that had been grazed 90 days earlier and recorded a late-season ADG of 2.47 pounds. “I said ah-ha! Pastures with good rest periods and regrowth will increase gains. So we’ve got to balance pursuing land health with achieving cattle performance, otherwise we’re always going to end up disappointed in performance.”

CUTTING WINTER FEED COSTS “The thing that’s always bugged me in the cattle business is that our greatest production cost in the Northern Plains is winter feed,” Doan says. “That kills us. It’s why when we had $7 corn we saw all of the native range broke up. I don’t think that’s a very sustainable system. If we’re going to keep native range we gotta cut winter feed costs.”

In an effort to do that, Doan implemented intensive grazing and winter grazing of cover crops.

INTENSIVE GRAZING The Black Leg Ranch runs yearlings in a 100- to 150-day grazing season, grazing quickly with long recovery. They run pairs in a graze-365-days-a-year-if-you-can system. Turning large groups of cattle into highly concentrated areas of lush, native pastures with adequately developed fresh water systems forces cattle to become much less selective in their diet. “They will take down plants that would just be left there with seasonal grazing,” Doan says.

It’s important to not manage the same pastures the same way every year. Doan says, “Part of the success of all of this is to mix it up a bit.”

In another example, Doan put 1,200 bred heifers on seasonal once-over grazing in late August and then went to rapid twiceover grazing. “It really kicked the condition up,” he says. “That’s what we needed to do on heifers going to market. It’s one of those things you have to play with and learn as you go.”

GROWING COVER CROPS Of course, if a producer is going to graze cover crops he must first grow cover crops.

One of the first years Doan grew full-season cover crops they were seeded June 14-15 using a no-till drill on spring soil.

In his 12-seed mixtures Doan has planted: pearl and proso millet, sudan, soybeans, cowpeas, sunflowers, radishes, turnips, sweet clover and corn. “In 2013 we went with cowpeas, soybeans, forage peas, clover, sorghum, pearl and proso millet and brown midrib grazing corn,” he says. In 2014 he added collards and turnips for more diversity. At a cost of $27 an acre,” Doan says, “I’m pretty pleased with it all.”

Doan manages to grow cover crops without commercial fertilizer. “The first year it was an unintentional seeding glitch,” he admits. “But the point is, once the cover crops start fixing nitrogen and we have four to five tons of matter on these cover crops, that saves me from fertilizing it.”

WINTER GRAZING COVER CROPS The first three years Doan used cover crops he didn’t like them. “They were planted later in the year, we seemed to have a lot of weed pressure and I was disappointed,” he says. But as he focused on his goals of reducing winter feed costs, building soil health and propagating wildlife, he better understood that full-season cover crops work best for his operation.

THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • 303

Feed & Forage Doan grazes a cover crop until 50 percent of the forage is gone, leaving the remainder as ground litter. “We need to feed the soil,” he stresses.

Cows will dig through snow to find the better feed and balance their diets, including foraging and chewing on radish roots that are 17 percent protein. However, he adds, “It’s when you run into freezing and thawing that you might have some issues.”

Once he started utilizing cover crops Doan’s annual inventory of hay dropped from nearly 5,000 bales to 800 bales. “It’s there as an insurance policy. I remember not having hay once or twice in my life and it wasn’t any fun.”

Further twisting tradition, Doan left his 2013 calf crop with their mothers until March 7, 2014. “Most of them did really well, but if I do it again I will take the bottom 10 percent off earlier,” he says. He won’t follow suit this year because he doesn’t have the cover crop quality to make it work. “You gotta live and learn and plan and re-plan,”

he says, adding a bit of advice for those leaning toward unconventional management practices: “If you’re going to step out and do things differently, stay out of the bars and cafes. Others will be quick to criticize you and pull you back.”

BENDING THE “RULES” There are times that a producer can and should bend grazing rules to achieve management goals. Recalling his dad’s futile effort to spray snowberry or buck brush, he states, “Maybe you’ve got a weed problem and you use high animal impact once every ten years to knock it down and control it.

Maybe you turn 2,300 yearlings into 160 acres for a week to take the selectivity out of it and the result is beautiful pasture.” He encourages, “You gotta think about why you’re in there. Play with it and learn as you go.”

Doan is using cattle to improve the grasslands. While producers can and do use cow/ calf pairs, he adds, “Yearlings are easier to use in these grazing systems because with more animals you see more bang for the buck.”

BUILDING SOIL HEALTH Doan remembers the wheat/summer fallow rotation of his youth and watching the wind blow the soil away. “A lot of our farmland was pretty sandy and pretty depleted

of organic matter,” he says. He doesn’t blame previous producers, realizing that production practices constantly change and progress. “Some of that was government programs that pushed them into it,” he says.

A soil specialist once told Doan that there are parts of the Red River Valley where the soil’s organic matter has dropped to one to two percent. “I almost fell over. I did not think that was possible,” he says. “The Red River Valley had three feet of top soil, but with continuous tillage over time, over time, we’ve taken that down.”

By comparison, good soil health is a result of intensive grazing in which the remaining grasses, forbes and wildflowers are knocked down as valuable litter while manure and urine is spread evenly over the soil. “We want the carbon on the ground to rebuild the soil,” he explains. “It makes for an active biology. Soil is a living organism with millions of little creatures that have to be fed.”

Doan saw the benefits of a diverse, grazed, littered-covered field one mid-summer day when an Australian researcher visited the Black Leg Ranch. “She pulled a thermometer out of her pocket, stuck it in the ground and registered the soil temperature at 68 degrees – even though the air temperature was 95 degrees,” he says. Knowing that optimum soil temperature for biologic activity is 70 degrees, Doan explains, “It’s like a mini tropical zone down in there.” That’s compared to microorganisms shutting down in the hot, black soil of row crops.

In 2011 and 2012 Doan experimented with a fairly sandy field, planting a covercrop-to-corn rotation versus a back-toback cover crop. The cover-crop-to-corn

Flat, millet-laden cow manure samples from the spring of 2014 confirm what Texas A & M NUTBAL Nutrition Balance Analyzer showed: that cows grazing cover crops one to two months before calving were receiving adequate crude protein to maintain themselves and increase one body score.

306 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

Presently, Doan claims the highest nanograms of bacteria reading ever collected in Burleigh County. Area soil experts anticipate how high it can go.

Feed & Forage scenario recorded 1,774 nanograms (ng) of bacteria per gram (g) of soil while the covercrop-to-cover-crop scenario recorded 3,312 ng of bacteria per g of soil. Then, in 2014, after winter grazing cover crops without feeding any hay, a soil test revealed 7,397 ng of bacteria per g of soil. “I don’t pretend to be a soil expert but there’s something to this,” he says. “The diversity in that cover crop is building in that soil.”

Of course plants are also an indicator of soil health on the Black Leg Ranch. Land that formerly resembled a sand dune – where his family rode dirt bikes – now boasts grasses. “Big blue stem is an indicator plant and that’s what’s moving up those slopes,” he says. “What’s fun about intensive grazing is that we’re starting to see healing of fragile lands.”

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He also attributes the appearance of new, sprouting tree seedlings to better grazing practices and improved soil. “I love trees for the aesthetic,” he says. “I didn’t expect that nature would go that far to release diversity.”

After many years of intensive grazing and eight years of planting and grazing cover crops, Doan says, “We’re building organic matter. That helps with water infiltration, weed pressure and it helps keep evaporation down.”

CATTLE TYPE AND MANAGEMENT While land health and utilization are key factors in perpetuating a multi-generational ranch, another important aspect is cattle: specifically, cattle size, foraging ability and timing of the calving season.

The beef industry has long been cornbased. “We’ve continually made those cattle bigger and bigger and bigger, so when we decide to go to a grass system it doesn’t work,” he says. Rather than play that weight game, over the past 15 years Doan has bred and developed half-blood Angus/Lowline heifers that grow into 1,100-pound cows. ‘I’m just trying to fit cattle to our system,” he says.

On Nov. 29, 2010, Doan turned his cowherd onto a cover crop. They grazed with no additional feed until Jan. 3, 2011. “We had over 100 inches of snow and ran out of grazing land so we had to go into our cover crops a little earlier than I like,” he says. Then he went to feeding half a feeding on the cover crop fields. Two weeks later a cold snap crusted the snow so he went to a full feeding.

Still, what impressed him was this: “About one-fourth of that cowherd never came to eat. If I were gutsy enough I’d have sold that other three-fourths, kept that quarter and I’d have developed the perfect cowherd for our system.”

Another important consideration is calving season. “We’ve been calving in May and June for 15 years,” Doan says. “It’s the absolute best decision I ever made on that ranch economically.” Though a calving barn sits unused, he quips, “We’ve got it full of hunting dogs this year, so maybe we found a use for it.”

THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • 307

Feed & Forage Doan says cows can perform well with winter grazing when they calve in sync with nature. In late December 2010 a NUTBAL report showed that cover crops being grazed had 7.9 percent crude protein (CP) and 59 percent total digestible nutrients (TDN).

“They weren’t putting on a lot of condition but they were maintaining, which was fine because we don’t calve until May and June,” he says. When he tested the cattle again on March 15, 2011, he says, “The cattle were right where I want them to be and without any feed costs.”

Last winter Doan’s cowherd only grazed cover crops. “I didn’t feed a bale of hay to my cow herd all winter,” he says. “I had some really good cover crops at the end (of the winter grazing season).” Cows, heavy with calf, were turned into a new cover crop on April 1, 2014. On April 14 the CP was 8.2 percent and the TDN was 59.1 percent. According to the University of Florida, the nutritional requirements of a cow 11 months after calving are 7.78 percent CP and 52.3 percent TDN.

he says. “Now I’ve got the same baler for five years. That starts to add up.”

Alternatively, planting and grazing cover crops and planting a corn cash crop the following year shows an increase in net profit per acre from $167 to $279. “This is starting to get my attention,” he says, noting that sunflowers show nearly identical profit results with even less input.

As one who has experienced upside-down agricultural economics Doan encourages fellow producers to cut every possible cost, even in a better-than-ever cattle market. “If we can make good money by feeding hay, shouldn’t we try to make even better money by not feeding hay?” Remembering how quickly corn has lost value, he says, “I hope we’re not getting spoiled.”

ENVIRONMENTAL BENEFITS Finally, Doan notes that there are environmental benefits to intensive and winter cover crop grazing. Considering the modern public’s perception of agriculture he says, “Look at the over-reach of the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) today. If we can keep cattle out on pastures and out of corrals and watersheds we’ll be miles ahead in building positive public perception.”

The grazing system also provides quality food and habitat for wildlife, which causes the wildlife population to flourish.

Some out-of-state, non-agricultural visitors who visit the Black Leg Ranch due to fee hunting and agritourism tell Doan, ‘You gotta pay attention because where we’re from they say you (farmers and ranchers) are putting chemicals in the water and beating your cattle. They want to shut you down,” He encourages producers to talk to others about the good things they are doing.

Doan concludes, “In our operation we’re tying it all together – the land and the cattle through intensive grazing, cover crops, building soil health and increasing wildlife populations – all to achieve a higher quality of life.” He encourages other producers, saying, “There’s real opportunity on every agricultural operation – adapt the opportunities so they work for you.”

ECONOMIC BENEFITS As Jerry Doan has raised and grazed more cover crops some have asked, “How can you afford to take that land out of production?”

He assures, “If I were a grain farmer it would be more difficult, but I’m a cattle guy.”

Doan shares numbers that prove lower winter feed costs. According to the Bismarck State College Farm Management Education program North Dakota producers winter a beef cow for $1.60 per day for 180 days on average. The average profit for North Dakota beef operations over 15 years is $122 per head. By winter grazing cover crops Doan saves $160 per head in feed costs, giving him a 130 percent profit increase. “I think that’s a pretty conservative number,” Doan says, as it does include cover crop cost, land, insurance but doesn’t include not hauling manure, less time haying and less wear and tear on buildings and corrals. “I used to trade balers every year,”

308 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

Turning large groups of cattle into highly concentrated areas of lush, native pastures forces cattle to become much less selective in their diet. Jerry Doan says, “They will take down plants that would just be left there with seasonal grazing.”

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1

JANUARY

31

Black Hills Stock Show Cattlemens Ball, Rapid City, SD

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3

ND Angus Assn. State Sale, Kist Livestock, Mandan, ND

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TNT Simmental Bull Sale, Almont, ND

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Urlacher Angus Ranch Bull sale, Bowman, ND

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TJS Red Angus bull sale, Buffalo Livestock, Buffalo, WY

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Colorado Angus Assn. Foundation Female Sale, Denver, CO

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7

Bartos Angus Production Sale, Verdigre, NE

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Angus Partners (Spickler & McCumber) Commercial Female sale, Kist Livestock, Mandan, ND

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Frey Angus and Red Angus bull sale at the Ranch Granville ND

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Ellingson Angus Ranch bull sale at Martin Schaff sale facility, St Anthony ND

1

17

Redland Angus Bull Sale, Buffalo, WY

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Upstream Hereford Ranch bull sale, Taylor, NE

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Knippling Herefords online bull sale, Gann Valley, SD

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Mike Sitz Angus Ranch Bull Sale, Burwell, NE

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Black Hills Stock Show Chi-Influence Show and Sale, Rapid City, SD

19

VanNewkirk Herefords Bull Sale, Oshkosh, NE

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Topp Herefords Bull Sale at the ranch, Grace City, ND

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McPherson Angus sale Philip Livestock Philip SD

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Black Hills Stock Show Angus show and sale, Rapid City, SD

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Black Hills Stock Show Supreme Row, Rapid City, SD

22

Marcy Cattle Co. Bull Sale, Gordon Livestock, Gordon, NE

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Black Hills Stock Show Gold Rush Genetics Sale, Rapid City, SD

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Mrnak Herefords Bull Sale, Bowman, ND

2

Windmill Angus Ranch Bull Sale, Haigler, NE

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Wicks Cattle Simmental and SimAngus bull sale, Richardton, ND

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Mill Bar Angus Bull Sale, McCook, NE

24

Sandage Angus bull sale, Rushville, NE

3

Black Hills Stock Show Charolais Show and sale, Rapid City, SD

8

Hartman Cattle Co. Simmental and SimAngus Bull Sale, Techumsa NE

24

Severance Diamond Charolais & Angus sale at Kist’s Livestock Mandan ND

3

Black Hills Stock Show Ranch Rodeo, Rapid City, SD

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Black Hills Buffalo Classic Sale during Black Hills Stock Show, Rapid City, SD

24

Rohrich Cutting Edge Ranch Red Angus sale, Napleon, ND

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Black Hills Stock Show Hereford Show and Sale, Rapid City, SD

9

Fawcett’s Elm Creek Ranch Hereford production sale, at the ranch, Ree Heights, SD

24

Middlswarth Herefords Bull Sale, Torrington, WY

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Begger's Diamond V Ranch Bull sale, Wibaux, MT

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Sletten Angus Ranch bull sale, Faith Livestock, Faith SD

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Triangle J Ranch Simmental and Angus Bull Sale, Miller, NE

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Idland Cattle Co. Bull Sale, Glendive, MT

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Nagel Cattle Co. Bull Sale, at the ranch, Springfield, SD

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Martin Angus Ranch Bull Sale, Ogallala, NE

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Ridder Herefords annual bull sale at the ranch, Callaway, NE

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Benda Ranch Simmental bull sale, Kimball, SD

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Sodak Angus Bull Sale, at the ranch, Reva, SD

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Black Hills Stock Show Gelbvieh Show and Sale, Rapid City, SD

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Felton Angus Bull Sale, Big Timber, MT

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Joseph Angus Ranch sale Valentine Livestock Valentine NE

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Black Hills Stock Show Red Angus Show and Sale, Rapid City, SD

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Logterman Herefords and Angus bull sale, Valentine, NE

27

Ken Hass Angus Bull Sale, LaGrange, WY

5

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Carlson Angus Ranch sale at Stockman’s Livestock, Dickinson ND

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Black Hills Stock Show Horse Sale, Rapid City, SD

Black Hills Stock Show Shorthorn Show and Sale, Rapid City, SD

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Stroh Hereford Ranch Bull Sale, Kildeer, ND

1014

Watertown Farm Show Watertown SD

31

21 Angus Ranch at the Ranch New England ND

6

Dvorak Herefords, Lake Andes, SD

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Thorson Herefords Annual Production sale, Philip Livestock, Philip, SD

31

Baldridge Bros. Angus bull sale, North Platte, NE

6

Maher Angus Ranch Morristown SD sale at the Ranch Morristown SD

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Werning Cattle Co. Production sale, Mitchell Livestock, Mitchell SD

31

Jauer Dependable Genetics 37th Annual Bull & Female Sale, Hinton, IA

6

McConnell Angus Ranch Production Sale, Dix, NE

10

Shearer Spear U Angus Ranch bull sale, Philip Livestock, Philip, SD

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Soriede Charolais Sale, Bowman, ND

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Badlands Genetics Plus Red Angus bull sale, Stockmens Livestock, Dickinson, ND

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Fairview Ranch Bull Sale, Melville, MT

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Black Hills Stock Show Horse Sale, Rapid City, SD

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Baumgarten Herefords sale, Belfield, ND

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G Bar H Genetics bull sale, Torrington, WY

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Double J Farms Simmental Private Treaty bull sale starts, Garretson, SD

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Friedt Herefords sale, Dickinson, ND

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11

Sandpoint Cattle Co. Bull Sale, Lodgepole, NE

17

23

Beastrom Gelbvieh Ranch Sale, at the ranch, Pierre, SD

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Bichler-Johnson Simmental bull sale, Linton, ND

Cedar Top Ranch Gelbvieh, Angus and Balancer Bull Sale, at Burwell Livestock, Burwell, NE

17

23

Ludvigson Stock Farms Dakota Bull and Female Sale, Mandan, ND

12

Foos Angus Ranch sale at Belle Fourche Livestock, Belle Fourche SD

Douglas Booth Family Angus bull sale, Torrington, WY

Hart Farms at the Farm Frederick SD

12

Booth’s Cherry Creek Ranch Bull Sale, Veteran, WY

Coleman Angus & Trexler Angus, Missoula, MT

23

17

23

18

Rust Mountain View Ranch "Ace in the Hole" sale, Turtle Lake, ND

12

Lassle Ranch Simmental bull sale, Glendive, ND

Johnson Black Simmental Bull Sale, Baker, MT

23

18

Arrow One Angus bull sale, North Platte, NE

13

Mohnen Angus sale at Farm White Lake SD

Hilltop Angus Ranch at the Ranch Bowdle SD

23

Circle L Angus Bull Sale, Dillon, MT

Honeyman Charolais Bull Sale, Bowman, ND

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Millar Angus Ranch Bull Sale at Philip Livestock, Philip, SD

23

18

14

Premier Performance Sale, Baker Herefords and Amdahl Angus, at the ranch, Rapid City, SD

Ostrand Angus Mason City, NE bull sale at Sargent, NE

Reyes/Russell 23rd Annual Sale, Wheatland, WY

24

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Barenthsen & Bullinger Red Angus 14th Annual Production Sale, at the ranch, Powers Lake, ND

Deep Creek Angus Ranch Bull Sale at Philip Livestock, Philip, SD

24

Rock Creek Livestock sale, Mitchell Livestock, Mitchell, SD

19

Krebs Ranch Angus Bull Sale, at the ranch, Gordon, SD

24

Sandhill Red Angus Bull and Female Sale, Sidney, MT

19

Mogck & Sons Angus, at the ranch, Olivet, SD

24

JC Heiken Angus & Sons bull sale, Miles City, MT

19

Neiman 77 Ranch Bull Sale, Belle Fourche Livestock, Belle Fourche, SD

25

Chestnut Angus Sale, at the Farm, Pipestone MN

19

Olson Red Power Hereford and Red Angus Sale, Argusville, ND

25

Connelly Angus Bull Sale, Valier, MT

19

Miske Ranch Angus Production Sale, Glendive, MT

25

Larson Family Ranch 46th Annual Production sale, Presho Livestock, Presho, SD

20

Blacktop Farms Angus & Hereford bull sale, Mitchell, SD

25

Cedar Flo Angus Production Sale, Lemmon Livestock, Lemmon, SD

14

Kenner Simmental Ranch 17th Annual Bull Sale, Napoleon Livestock, Napoleon, ND

14

Schaff Angus Valley Bull and Female Sale at the ranch, St. Anthony ND

14

Stewart & Steffensen Charolais Bull Sale, Madison, SD

14

Wilkinson Ranch Angus Open House bull sale, DeSmet, SD

14

Ekstrom Simmental Annual Bull Sale, Kimball, SD

1422

Nebraska Cattlemen's Classic, Kearney, NE

14

Heart City Bull Bash, Valentine, NE

20

Hoffman Ranch Hereford Bull Sale, Thedford, NE

25

15

Nathan Palm Angus, Estelline, SD, bull sale at Watertown, SD

TC Ranch Bull Sale, at the ranch, Franklin, NE Stortz/Gibbs Angus Bull Sale, Glendive, MT

Spruce Hill Angus Ranch at Bowman Livestock Bowman ND

20

R & R Cattle Co. Annual Bull and Female Sale, Chamberlain Livestock Auction, Chamberlain, SD

25

15

26

16

Koupal Angus Bull Sale, at the ranch, Dante SD

Raven Angus Bull Sale at the Ranch, Colome, SD

20

Robert Birklid, R Lazy B Charolais Bull Sale, Hub City Livestock, Aberdeen, SD

26

16

Rausch Herefords Annual Bull & Heifer sale, at the ranch, Hoven, SD

Bear Mountain Angus and Charolais Bull Sale, Palisade, NE

20

Lewis Bros. Angus Bull Sale, St. Onge Livestock, St. Onge, SD

26

Van Dyke Angus Bull Sale, Manhattan, MT

16

Tokach Angus Ranch sale at Kist Livestock Mandan ND

20

Deitz Family Angus sale, Sentinal Butte, ND sale at Stockmens Livestock, Dickinson, ND

27

16

Bulls of the Big Sky sale, Billings, MT

21

27

17

Bar JZ Ranches Hereford and Limousin Bull sale at Thomas Ranch sale facility, Holabird, SD

Powder River Angus Annual Bull Sale, Buffalo, WY

Beitelspacher Ranch Angus & SimAngus bull sale at Mobridge Livestock, Mobridge, SD Jamison Herefords Annual Bull sale, at the ranch, Quinter, KS

21

Kappes Simmental & Angus Production Sale, Aberdeen, SD

27

Durbin Creek Ranch Hereford bull sale, Worland Livestock Auction, Worland, WY

21

Schiefelbein Angus Farms sale at the Farm Kimball MN

Gant Hereford and Angus sale at Platte Livestock, Platte SD

27

Hyline Angus Bull Sale, Bozeman, MT

27

Wieczorek Limousin 33rd Annual Bull Sale, Corsica, SD

27

Skinner Ranch Seedstock sale, Hall, MT

28

Peterson Angus Bull Sale at Sioux Falls Regional, Worthing SD

17 17

Reppe Ranch sale at SD Livestock Sales, Watertown SD

21

Varilek Angus Ranch at the ranch Geddes SD

17

Bina Charolais 20th Annual sale, Jamestown, ND

22

Kal-Kota Ranch Bull Sale, Mandan, ND

17

Gill Red Angus Annual Bull Sale at the ranch, Timber Lake, SD

22

Raml Angus sale at the ranch, Goodwin, SD

23

Foxhoven Angus Bull Sale, Crofton, NE

310 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

Ag Events

Sales & Shows

HAVE AN EVENT COMING UP? CALL 877-347-9100 TO LIST IT HERE FREE – OR E-MAIL EDITORIAL@TSLN-FRE.COM YOU CAN ALSO SUBMIT YOUR EVENT ONLINE AT HTTP://WWW.TSLN.COM/NEWS/CALENDAR/#/ZIPCODE/57701/RADIUS/500

28

Brenner Angus & Red Angus Bull Sale, Kist Livestock, Mandan, ND

5

Split Diamond Bull Sale, Dillon, MT

11

Red Connection Red Angus bull sale, Madison Livestock, Madison, SD

28

Crump Red Angus Bull First Annual "A New Shade of Red" Sale, Buffalo Livestock, Buffalo, WY

6

Eichacker Simmental & JK Angus Bull Sale at Eichacker sale facility, Salem SD

11

Triple Play Ranches Gelbvieh & Balancer Bull sale, Huron, SD

6

28

Strommen Ranch Bull sale at the ranch, Ft. Rice, ND

Sandmeier Charolais 32nd Anniversary Bull Sale, at the ranch, Bowdle, SD

11

Heart River Red Angus & Open A Angus bull sale at Medora ND

6

28

Bush Angus Sale at the Farm, Britton SD

Carl Dethlefs and Sons Angus Bull Sale, Rockville, NE

11

Vin-Mar Angus Bull Sale at Sheridan Livestock Auction, Rushville, NE

Johnson-Rose Angus Bull Sale, Mobridge Livestock Auction, Mobridge, SD

6

Flesch Angus Bull Sale, Shelby, MT

28

11

Sitz Angus Spring Bull Sale, Dillon, MT

6

Reminisce Angus Bull Sale, Dillon, MT

28

Kreth Angus & Hereford sale at the Farm Mt Vernon SD

12

Mogck Angus Farm Tripp SD Tripp Livestock Tripp SD

6

Sutherlin Farms Red Angus Bull Sale, Stevesville, MT

12

6

Handel Farms 22nd Annual Gelbvieh and Red Angus Bull Sale, Platte Livestock, Platte, SD

Hall - Pokorney Red Angus Bull Sale, Lincoln County Fairgrounds, North Platte, NE

12

Schriefer Red Angus Bull sale, at Stockmens Livestock, Dickinson, ND

7

Lucky 7 Angus Bull Sale, Riverton, WY

13

Heuftle Red Angus bull sale, Cozad, NE

7

Redland Red Angus sale, at the ranch, Hysham, MT

13

Leland Red Angus Annual Production Sale at the ranch, Sidney, MT

7

Wilde Angus Ranch at the Ranch Shevlin MN

13

Brookhouser T-Bone Angus sale at O'Neill, ND

7

Ravine Creek Ranch Hereford bull sale, Huron, SD

14

Big Rok Angus Ranch at the Ranch Detroit Lakes MN

7

Thorstenson Gelbvieh & Angus sale at Mobridge Livestock Mobridge SD

14

Lensegrav Hybrid Angus Bull Sale, Faith Livestock, Faith, SD

7

Birdtail Ranch Angus Bull Sale, Great Falls, MT

14

Wiesler Angus, Orient, SD sale at Hub City Livestock Aberdeen, SD

7

Cowboy Classic Angus Bull Sale, Buffalo, WY

14

Fast Angus/Dohrmann Cattle Co. sale, Kist Livestock, Mandan, ND

15

Jallo Angus Ranch at the Ranch Fordville ND

15

Tesch Bros. "Its Time" Angus & ChiAngus bull sale, Watertown, SD

16

Baxter Angus Farm & Wagner Herefords Bull Sale at Baxter Angus Farm, Rockham, SD

16

Becker Farms Angus sale, Ballantine, MT

16

Hawks Angus Bull Sale, Galta, MT

17

Moore Angus Artesian SD sale at the Farm

17

Schott Limousin 31st Annual Bull Sale, Mobridge Livestock, Mobridge, SD

17

Green Mountain Red Angus bull sale, Three Forks, MT

17

Plateau Red Angus sale, Ogallala, NE

MARCH 1

Windy Creek & Melroe Farms, Aberdeen Livestock, Aberdeen, SD

1

Spring Valley Angus at the Farm LaMoure ND

2

Campbell Red Angus Bull Sale at Mobridge Livestock, Mobridge, SD

2

Edgar Bros Rockham SD sale at Hub City Livestock Aberdeen SD

2

Arrowsmith Red Angus & Choat Cattle Co. Joint Production Sale, Burwell Livestock, Burwell, NE

2

Hojer Gelbvieh Ranch Bull Sale, Huron, SD

2

Vision Angus sale at North Platte, NE

8

Caraway Red Angus sale, Lake Benton, MN

3

Doll Ranch Charolais & Simmental bull sale, Kist Livestock, Mandan, ND

8

RBM Livestock sale at the Farm Florence SD

3

Jindra Angus Production Sale at Creighton Livestock Auction, Creighton, NE

9

Keller Broken Heart Simmental Bull sale at Kist Livestock, Mandan, ND

3

Cheyenne Charolais 21st Annual bull sale,

9

Schauer Angus Ranch at Faith Livestock Faith SD

3

Apex Angus Bull Sale, Valier, MT

3

Ridl Angus Farms Dickinson ND sale at Stockman’s Livestock Dickinson ND

9

Watje-Zimmerman Charolais "Pounds for Profit" bull sale, Faith, SD

9

Barstow Angus sale at the ranch, Springview, NE

9

Holden Herefords Sale, Valier, MT

9

Pine Coulee Angus Bull Sale, Laurel, MT

3

Warner Beef Genetics Production Sale, Arapahoe, NE

3

Schuette S & S Polled Herefords Sale, Guide Rock, NE

4

Bruns Angus at the Farm Madison SD

9

4

Pederson Broken Heart Ranch Red Angus Production Sale, at the ranch, Firesteel, SD

LBS Angus bull sale, Sitting Bull Auction, Williston, ND

10

Styles Angus Inc. Bull Sale at the Farm Brentford SD

4

Ox Bow Ranch Bull Sale, Wolf Creek, MT

17

Leachman Angus sale, Townsend, MT

Bieber Red Angus "Bieber Fever VIII" sale at the ranch, Leola, SD

10

5

MacDonald Ranches Salers and Optimiser Bull sale, Kist Livestock, Mandan, ND

18

Eagle Pass Gelbvieh & Angus sale at the ranch Highmore SD

10

5

Dave Fuoss Angus Ranch sale at the Ranch, Draper, SD

Cooper Hereford Ranch sale, Willow Creek, MT

18

Wagonhammer Ranches Production Sale,at Shamrock Livestock, O’Neill, NE

10

Best Angus Sale, Watford City, ND

THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • 311

Ag Events

Sales & Shows

HAVE AN EVENT COMING UP? CALL 877-347-9100 TO LIST IT HERE FREE – OR E-MAIL EDITORIAL@TSLN-FRE.COM YOU CAN ALSO SUBMIT YOUR EVENT ONLINE AT HTTP://WWW.TSLN.COM/NEWS/CALENDAR/#/ZIPCODE/57701/RADIUS/500

APRIL

18

Stevenson Angus Bull Sale, Hobson, MT

24

Curtis Brown C-B Ranch Charolais bull sale at Napoleon Livestock, Napoleon, ND

19

Lone Tree Red Angus Bull Sale, Faith Livestock, Faith, SD

24

Lodoen Cattle and Huber EY Red Angus bull sale, Kist Livestock, Mandan, ND

1

Black Ranches-Nine Irons Seedstock Bull Sale, Antioch, NE

19

Strohschein Angus 5th Annual Production Sale, Belle Fourche, SD

24

Wheeler Mountain Angus Bull Sale, Whitehall, MT

1

Hinman Angus Bull Sale, Malta, MT

19

Evenson Angus sale at Lemmon Livestock, Lemmon SD

24

Frenzen Polled Herefords and Blue Berry Hill Herefords Bull Sale, Fullerton, NE

1

Schelske Angus sale at Magness Livestock, Huron SD

20

3C Christensen Ranch 42nd Annual Production Sale at the ranch, Wessinton, SD

McCumber Angus Ranch sale at the Ranch Rolette ND

1

Nissen Angus Bull Sale, Chinook, MT

25

Sellman Ranch Performance Bull Sale, Crawford, NE

2

A & B Cattle Co. Bull Sale, Bassett, NE

20

25

Randy Schmidt Charolais Bull Sale, at Sheridan Livestock, Rushville, NE

20

Montana Performance Co-op Sale, Columbus, MT

25

Rossow Angus Ranch sale Herreid Livestock Herreid SD

2

Bar 69 Ranch Craig & Deb Kukuchka Belle Fourche SD sale at St Onge Livestock St Onge SD

20

Schurrtop Angus & Charolais Bull Sale, at Tri State Livestock, McCook, NE

25

ROM'N Limousin Bull Sale, Madison, SD

2

Fox Angus Farms sale at SD Livestock Barn, Watertown SD

21

White Angus Ranch & Raymond Lee Angus Bull Sale at, Bowman Livestock, Bowman ND

26

Lau Angus sale at Corsica SD

2-5

Midland Bull Test Angus Sale, Columbus, MT

26

Arntzen Angus Bull Sale, Hilger, MT

21

Rocking Tree Red Angus bull sale, Belle Fouche Livestock, Belle Fourche, SD

2

Herbster Angus, Falls City, NE sale at Marysville, KS

26

Schuler Red Angus Production sale at the ranch, near Bridgeport, NE

3

Pieper Red Angus Annual "Performance Leader" Production sale, Hay Springs, NE

26

Gartner-Denowh Angus Bull Sale, Sidney, MT

3

Roster Charolais Bull Sale, Mitchell Livestock, Mitchell, SD

26

Mushrush Red Angus bull sale, Storng City, KS

3

Kammerer Livestock 8th Annual Bull Sale, St. Onge, SD

2627

Vermilion Ranch Bull Sale, Billings, MT

3

Brozik Angus Sale, Winner Livestock, Winner, SD

27

Lisco M Diamond Angus Bull Sale, Casper, WY

4

Brooks Chalky Butte Angus Ranch sale at Bowman Livestock, Bowman ND

27

Roth Angus sale at Mitchell Livestock Mitchell SD

4

Nelson Angus Ranch sale at the Ranch, Carpenter, SD

27

Wulf Limousin Bull sale at the farm, Morris, MN

4

Wells Charolais 32nd Annual Bull & Female Sale at Hub City Livestock, Aberdeen, SD

27

Harrer's Lost Lake Angus Ranch sale, Great Falls, MT

4

DeBrucker Charolais 29th Annual sale at Western Livestock, Great Falls, Mt

4

Kraye Angus Bull Sale, Mullen, NE

21 21 21 21 21 21

Pearson Cattle Co. 30th Annual Bull Sale, at the ranch, Lake City, SD Scherbenske Angus Ranch Lehr ND sale at Wishek Livestock Wishek ND Altenburg Super Baldy Ranch Simmental and SimAngus sale, Ft. Collins, CO. Forgey & Graeser Angus sale at the ranch, Dallas, SD Grays Angus Bull Sale at the ranch, Harrison, NE Milk Creek Reds Red Angus Sale, at the ranch, Plevna, MT

2122

Hermanson Kist Spring Horse Sale, Kist Livestock, Mandan, ND

23

Sinclair Cattle Company Bull Sale, Buffalo, WY

27

Tom Varilek Angus sale, Platte, SD

23

Iron Mountain Cattle Company sale at Belle Fourche Livestock Belle, Fourche SD

27

6

Curt Miller Angus sale at Presho Livestock Presho SD

23

Weber Charolais and Angus Bull Sale, Corsica, SD

Poss Angus Bull Sale, at Ericson/Spalding Livestock, Ericson, NE

28

6

Dikoff Ranch Bull Sale at the Ranch, Onaka, SD

23

Feddes / C-T Red Angus Sale, Manhattan, MT

Bunker Cattle Co., Arlington, SD sale at Madison, SD

28

7

Beckton Red Angus Bull Sale, Sheridan, WY

23

Flatwater Gang Red Angus bull sale, Valentine Livestock, Valentine, NE

Connealy Angus Ranch Bull Sale, Whitman, NE Mt Rushmore Angus Ranch At the Ranch Hermosa SD

7

Hilltop Angus Bull Sale, Lewistown, MT

28

23

Cole Creek Angus sale at Columbus, MT

8

28

Wiesbeck Red Angus Bull Sale at Herried Livestock, Herried, SD

23

Larson Ranch Angus sale, Forsyth, MT

Croissant Red Angus bull sale at the ranch, Briggsdale, CO

8

Bar JV Angus Ranch Bull Sale, Sidney, MT

28

Lund’s B Bar Angus Bull Sale, Baker, MT

8

NJW Ranch Herefords sale Sheridan, WY

27

Wilson Ranch bull sale, St. Onge, SD

8

Pass Creek Angus Bull Sale, Wyola, MT

30

Jacobson Red Angus bull sale, West Fargo, ND

31

Littau Angus Ranch at the ranch Carter SD

23

Leachman Cattle of Colorado Bull Sale, Wellington, CO

23

Nelson Livestock Co. Annual Bull sale, Wibaux, MT

312 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

Ag Events

Sales & Shows

HAVE AN EVENT COMING UP? CALL 877-347-9100 TO LIST IT HERE FREE – OR E-MAIL EDITORIAL@TSLN-FRE.COM YOU CAN ALSO SUBMIT YOUR EVENT ONLINE AT HTTP://WWW.TSLN.COM/NEWS/CALENDAR/#/ZIPCODE/57701/RADIUS/500

MAY

9

Reich Charolais Bull Sale at Belle Fourche Livestock, Belle Fourche, SD

17

DeGrand Angus Annual Bull Sale, Baker, MT

9

Sonderup Charolais Ranch 33rd Annual Bull Sale at the ranch, Fullerton, NE

17

Reisig Cattle Company Bull Sale, Hardin, MT

2

Wicks Angus at the Farm Carpenter SD

9

Kel MCC Angus, Turner, MT

18

Don Miller Angus Farms Bull Salt at Bales Livestock, Huron SD

2

Wilken Angus bull sale, Faith, SD

10

Red Western Red Angus Bull Sale at Crawford Livestock, Crawford, NE

18

Lindskov & Thiel Ranch Charolais and Angus Bull Sale at the Ranch, Isabel SD

3

Borns Angus sale at SD Livestock Sales, Watertown SD

10

5 L Red Angus "Right for the Times" Spring Production sale, at the ranch, Sheridan, MT

18

Stuber Ranch Herefords Sale, at the ranch, Bowman, ND

4

Spickler Angus Ranch sale at the Ranch, Glenfield ND

10

Regency Acres Bull Sale, Sidney, MT

Jorgenson Angus Farm Bull Sale at Winner Livestock, Winner SD

4

McDonnell Angus bull sale, Bowman, ND

20

11

Rambour Charolais 35th Annual Bull Sale at the ranch, Sidney, MT

5

20

Medicine Rock Angus Bull Sale, Bowman, ND

Philip Livestock "Bull Day" All Breeds Bull Sale, Philip, SD

11

Sonstegard Red Angus Spring Bull Sale at the farm, Montevideo, MN

7

21

Diamond J Ranch Angus Bull Sale at Kist Livestock, Mandan ND

Vollmer Angus Ranch at the Ranch Wing ND

11

Thorstenson Herefords Annual Bull Sale, at the ranch, Selby, SD

9

21

Rafter U Cross Ranch Angus sale at Philip Livestock, Philip SD

Nold Family Angus Bull Sale at Hub City Livestock, Aberdeen SD

Hebbert Charolais 31st Annual Bull Sale at Hyannis, NE

9

Cody Wild West Days Horse Sale, Cody, WY

11

21

Currant Creek Angus Bull Sale, Miles City, MT

16

11

Ludvigson Stock Farms Spring Bull Sale, Billings, MT

22

Cottonwood Angus Bull sale, Philip Livestock, Philip, SD

Mattson Invitational Performance Horse Sale, Mattson Arena, Sturgis, SD

21

11

Jocko Valley Angus, Arlee, MT

22

12

Lehrkamp Livestock bull sale at the ranch, Caputa, SD

Opp Angus Bull Salt at Stockman’s Livestock, Dickinson ND

Kopriva Angus sale at the Farm Raymond SD

22

23

13

Rollin Rock Angus Bull Sale, Sidney, MT

Black Ink Farms Angus Bull Sale, at Corsica Livestock, Corsica, SD

Duppong’s Willow Creek Farms at the Farm Glen Ullin ND

Bakers LEMAR Angus Ranch sale at St Onge Livestock St Onge SD

23

13

Mangen Angus Ranch Bull Salt at Belle Fourche Livestock, Belle Fourche SD

23

13

Eggelston Charolais 29th Annual Bull & Female Sale at Bales CCC, Huron, SD

Prairie Pride Angus bull sale at Jamestown Livestock, Jamestown ND

13

Valnes Red Angus Bull Sale, Aberdeen, SD

25

Christensen Simmentals Bull and Heifer sale at the ranch, Wessington Springs, SD

13

Treasure Bull Test Sale, Great Falls, MT

25

Wienk Charolias 44th Annual Bull Sale at the ranch, Lake Preston, SD

14

Oakwater/Rocking Arrow Charolais Bull Sale at Valentine Livestock, Valentine, NE

27

Ma & Pa Angus sale at Presho Livestock, Presho SD

14

Thomas Ranch Angus, Red Angus & Charolais sale at the Ranch, Harrold SD

27

North Dakota Angus Association Bull Test Sale at Stockmen’s Livestock, Dickinson ND

15

Ponca Creek Cattle Co sale at the Ranch Bonesteel SD

27

Sunrise Angus Bull sale, Faith Livestock Commission Co. Faith, SD

15

Triple M Ranch Red Angus Bull Sale, Kist Livestock, Mandan, ND

27

Johnson J Ranch Bull Sale at Lemmon Livestock, Lemmon SD

15

Flying W Ranch Red Angus Bull Sale, Kist Livestock, Mandan, ND

28

Vollmer Angus Ranch bull sale, at the ranch, Wing, ND

15

Milk River Angus bull sale, Chinook, MT

29

McDonnell Angus Ranch bull sale at Bowman Livestock, Bowman ND

16

De Vries Angus sale at the ranch, Cavour SD

29

Wedge Tent Angus Ranch Bull Sale, Lemmon Livestock Lemmon, SD

16

RLV Gelbvieh 34th Annual Bull Sale, Belle Fourche, SD

17

Effertz Key Ranch Annual Turn out Bull Sale, Mandan, ND

17

Pine Creek Angus Ranch sale at Faith Livestock Faith SD

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THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • 313

Opinion

Be Prepared

Doug Theel, Financial Officer Farm Credit Services of America Rapid City, South Dakota

With current record prices in cattle markets it is more important than ever for cattle producers to look at ways to protect their investments.

Many forecasts are for three to five years of continued high prices in the livestock industry which we certainly hope holds true.

Being in the lending business for 34 years I am well aware of the trends that take place and the price fluctuations that can devastate some operations if caught on the wrong side of a big price swing.

Take the recent example in the grain industry. When corn was over $7 pre bushel two years ago, many were saying there was a new floor of $5 and that the industry would never see prices below that again. There were even some leading economists who led that charge. For those of us who have lived these price swings over the years, we proceeded cautiously to try and assure that we and our producers would still be in business when the down-turn occurred. Many of the long time producers positioned themselves in a strong cash position and used a variety of methods to assure that they did not experience losses when prices started to drop significantly. Hedging, purchasing options, forward contracting (often for a portion of two years of their crops), crop insurance, etc., were methods that many successful grain operators used and are still using.

There are a variety of risk management tools available for livestock producers as

well to mitigate risk and to take advantage of the current market prices.

portunity cost of the increase. No different than for someone who contracts grain.

Some of the tools to consider are: hedging, options, forward contracting, livestock risk insurance, pasture, rangeland, forage (rainfall) insurance, shared ownership with feedlots and more.

Cattle feeders are very familiar with hedging and options because it is what has kept them in business in the past when a big price drop occurred. They have done this accepting the fact that they will miss out on the top end of profits on an upswing in prices. If you can’t live with that then explore the put option to help keep you in business as you will take advantage of any price upswings and are only out the price of the put (insurance policy so to speak).

For those who have not used hedging I advise them to get educated on how they work. There are several hedging and option combinations that can be used for price protection on the livestock you own. Hedging often involves margin calls. Many individuals don’t have the intestinal fortitude to handle margin calls. Many lending institutions are afraid of them as well because they don’t understand them well enough.

In a nutshell should a producer get a margin call it goes into an account with the commodity firm the hedge was purchased from and is to offset the increase in the value of the cattle.

It may appear that the owner of the hedge contract in this case is losing money when in reality it is balancing out the increase in the value of the livestock to the price they agreed to lock in.

For those who forward contract whether by video auction or other methods you are doing the same thing. You are accepting a set price at a set date and if the price goes up you didn’t actually lose any money since you agreed on a preset price. You missed the op-

314 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

I strongly encourage livestock producers and especially the cow/calf, back grounding, and yearling producers to contact commodity brokerage firms, work with their local elevators, and insurance agents to learn more about the tools that can keep them on the ranch should(when) a large price drop occur.

Be prepared when you visit your banker this winter to have some price protection conditions put onto your request to background or finish cattle. Remember that they are not only doing it to protect their bank or in our case our Farm Credit Services of America stockholder owners, they are doing it to assure that you are still in business 10 years from now or that your children have the opportunity to carry on your family legacy should they so choose.

Opinion

Put Option

Keeps Floor Under Market Without Creating a Ceiling

By Kyle Grauman, XL Commodities

As a cattle producer in the United States there are many aspects that can be controlled, such as when to calve, genetics management, heifer retention, pasture rotation, mineral rations, feed analysis, and so on. But, no matter how well an operation is run, one can never control the direction of the market.

Fortunately, there are several options to take some of that risk out of the market. One of the more popular methods is to use the futures market. It allows producers on both ends to mitigate risk without ever having to lock into a traditional forward contract.

One method that I recommend most is using a put option. This method allows the producer to make a one time-purchase that effectively puts a “floor” on the cattle while leaving the top-side open to all gains the market may make. This method will also keep producers from ever having to make a margin call (paying in more money) on your hedging position. If the market decides to

rally, the value of your cattle will increase along with it. If the market goes down, you will have the peace of mind knowing the “floor” is there to guarantee a certain price for your cattle in the market.

There are countless different ways to utilize the futures market to mitigate risk. But with over 30 years of experience in both the agriculture and futures markets, our office has found put options to be one of the most efficient and cost effective methods to cover nearly all of the different facets of the ag markets. I would encourage all producers, whether you are a cow-calf operator, running a stocker operation or feeding cattle to fat, to talk with a broker and learn about the best method for getting the best price for your product no matter what the market does.

THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • 315

49th Annual Production Sale

Proven and Predictable 60 plus years of selection for balanced, functional traits and backed by a linebreeding program that guarantees consistency and uniformity.

Broadcast Live On

March 9, 2015 at the ranch

Valier, MT

SellinG

105 Big, Stout Yearling hereford Bulls 40 Powerful 18 mo. old Bulls 20 Top Quality Yearling heifers 20 Fall Pairs 8 Fall calving Bred heifers

hh aDVaNce 8050U eT

hh aDVaNce 0132X

BW WW YW Milk M&G REA MARB

+1.3 +48 +68 +27 +51 -.2 +.38

0132X is a proven sire of well marked, deep sided, easy fleshing progeny with great maternal strength. He is a calving ease bull that is a trait leader for Calving Ease, Milk, M&G, and MaRB EPD’s. Sons sell!

BW WW YW Milk M&G REA MARB

+1.7 +61 +82 +35 +65 +.6 -.18

Tremendous breeding bull that sires exceptional length, muscle, volume, and eye appeal in his progeny. Great combination of calving ease, performance, maternal, and carcass. 8050U is a trait leader for WW, Milk, M&G, and REa EPD’s. Sons & Grandsons Sell!

hh aDVaNce 1013Y eT

hh aDVaNce 1098Y

BW WW YW Milk M&G REA MARB

+2.5 +57 +85 +34 +63 +.49 -.04

Phenomenal 8050U son that topped our 2012 sale at $102,000 for 3/4 interest. 1098y progeny are well marked, long bodied, stylish, and have extra thickness. Sons Sell!

hh aDVaNce 4091B

BW WW YW Milk M&G REA MARB

+2.5 +64 +99 +36 +68 +.48 -.10

One of several powerful sons to sell out of the 1161y Cooper sire.

Pigment, EPD’s, and a great phenotype backed by cow power deluxe.

Jack & Tresha holden: 406-279-3301 • (m) 406-450-1029 Jay D. EVans: 406-279-3599 • (m) 406-450-0129

BW WW YW Milk M&G REA MARB

+3.4 +52 +76 +33 +59 +.17 +.25

Exceptional sire of volume, thickness, and fleshing ability backed by cow power deluxe. 1013y is a strong carcass bull whose dam topped our 2013 Female sale at $70,000. Sons sell!

hh aDVaNce 4105B eT

BW WW YW Milk M&G REA MARB

+1.5 +45 +73 +27 +50 +.14 +.23

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Opinion

Preparing and Planning

By Wendel Elliott Pastor in the Pasture In the cattle business there are, like anything else, cycles that occur year in and year out. There are those times of putting out bulls, branding, weaning, shipping and the list goes on and on. That list comes with the knowledge and common sense to prepare for the season that is on its way.

Well for an example we'll look at a feller in the Bible that was getting ready to see a baby that he knew was coming. Now it's not Joseph, which you may think is the obvious answer. Simeon is his name and his story unfolds in Luke 2:25-35. I encourage you to take the time to read it.

For instance, calving season is one of those times. There might be trouble with a cow or two so therefore it’s best to keep a close watch. You need to make sure there are supplies on hand like pullers, chains, and a good light source for those late nights that might be coming. Naturally, feed and hay are a must and let’s hope not; but milk replacer and a bottle or two needs to be close by as well. All of this is part of preparing for that time of year that comes in cycles.

We find that Simeon was righteous and devout. We also learn that the Holy Spirit was upon him. The Holy Spirit revealed that he wouldn't die until he saw the Lord's Messiah (the baby, Jesus Christ being presented at the Temple).

Even though we see those times of year coming and can prepare; we really don’t know the exact timing or certain specifics. Take for instance that heifer that we know is bred, but do we know exactly when she'll calve? We can make a really good guess but she doesn't care about or know how to read your gestation table. She doesn't concern herself with consulting you in her plans or allowing you to help her with them.

In a similar way the last month or more may have brought a cycle of time like other years in the past. Preparations for hosting Christmas or Thanksgiving have come and gone. The festivities have wrapped up and folks have gone home. Yet here we are again, another time of year to prepare for, if we haven’t already. A New Year is upon us that is filled with resolutions, goals and plans. We know what direction we want to go but we don't know specifics of how it will turn out. Are we like that heifer because we don't consult God or allow Him to help shape those plans?

So, how do we go about letting God in on our plans and helping us prepare for a New Year?

First, like Simeon, if we have a close relationship with God then He can reveal His will for our lives. It may be in a way that is obvious or it might be a subtle way. In 1 Kings 19:12 the Lord came to Elijah with a gentle whisper. God knows each of us and therefore how to speak to each of us; even if it's a whisper.

Are you watchful and looking for God to reveal some things to you in your planning for a New Year? It could be simple or complex. It could be in your goal setting or business practices. It might be something concerning your family. For example, it may have been 15 or 20 years since ma has been on a vacation. She's probably due and it wouldn't hurt you none either. You might throw that vacation on your list of goals. I know God wants us to have good marriages and that sure might help.

Simeon is then directed by the Holy Spirit into the temple courts.

This is when Joseph and Mary show up with the baby Jesus to present Him at the Temple. So Simeon was prepared for who was coming. He was prepared because he followed the direction of the Holy Spirit. Simeon didn't know the exact time, only that he would see the Messiah before he died.

THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • 317

Opinion Secondly, if we allow the direction of the Holy Spirit and follow that direction we can be better prepared in the New Year. The apostle Paul writes, "And you also were included in Christ when you heard the message of truth, the gospel of your salvation. When you believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit," (Ephesians 1:13 NIV) We have the Holy Spirit when we believe in Jesus Christ, and He (the Holy Spirit) is willing and able to provide direction. The key for us is to follow that direction.

In Simeon's story we finally see that he had peace because God had shown him the Messiah. Simeon's words are: “Sovereign Lord, as you have promised, you may now dismiss your servant in peace."

(Luke 2:29 NIV) Simeon had peace after God revealed who was coming, and after he followed the direction of the Holy Spirit.

Finally, in our plans and preparation for a New Year if we've been seeking God in all of it then we'll have peace about those plans. After, you have done those steps you can rest assured that the Creator of the universe is moving on your behalf. Will it turn out exactly like we want it? Maybe not. However, knowing that God is in your plans will help in overcoming obstacles or making adjustments that need to occur.

We take such care and planning to have children and raise them up.

We take care and plan for holidays to have loved ones, family and friends into our homes.

We'll plan for a vacation. We'll spend time researching where to go and how much to spend.

We take care and plan goals for a New Year.

Are we taking the same care and planning to make God a part of all that? Are we asking Him about our goals and plans? Are we planning and preparing to have Him involved in every aspect of our lives?

I sure hope we are because He sure wants to be part of those plans and our lives.

I better get back to writing down some goals.

I'll see ya'll out in the pasture!

Editor’s note: Read more by these columnists in Tri-State News weekly.

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FLYERS/CATALOGS

QUARTER HORSE PRODUCTION SALE Sunday, May 18, 2014 Flitner Ranch - Shell, WY - 1:00 pm GREG AND PAM FLITNER: WWW.FLITNERRANCH.COM Flitner Ranch on

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PINE CREEK ANGUS RANCH Friday, April 19th, 2013

1:00 PM MT Faith Livestock Comm. Co., Faith, SD

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SELLING 33

YEARLING RED ANGUS BULLS • STARTED 2-YEAR-OLDS • BRIDLE HORSES • ARENA PROSPECTS • RANCH HORSES • STALLION PROSPECTS • YEARLINGS • BROODMARES/COLTS Bloodlines Including: Doc Bar, Dash for Cash, Two Eyed Jack, Sun Frost, Doc Tari, Quick Emotion, Three Bars, Lowry Star

This historic ranch is located on the western slopes of Wyoming’s Big Horn Mountains. Our horses are still raised to work; everyday in every type of weather. They are run out in tough country. We ride all of our horses; geldings, mares and stallions. Our Ranch allows us to produce good, solid, well minded horses that can excel in any situation. This is a unique opportunity to take your pick of our best.

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Reg. # 17471900 EPD’s BW -0.6 WW 67 YW 115 Milk 23 Birth weight 62 lb.

205 Wt. 693 lb., WR 109 365 Wt. 1312 lb., YR 115

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205 Wt. 708 lb., WR 111 365 Wt. 1210 lb., YR 107

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Sale consultant: Dan Piroutek 605-685-4556

Auctioneer: Seth Weishaar 605-210-1124

MONDAY, APRIL 14TH, 2014 1 P.M. MDT • Sale at St. Onge Livestock

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70 Yearling Angus Bulls 59 Registered Angus Open Heifers 60 Commercial Angus Open Heifers

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Reg. # 17471900 EPD’s BW -0.6 WW 67 YW 115 Milk 23 Birth weight 62 lb.

205 Wt. 693 lb., WR 109 365 Wt. 1312 lb., YR 115

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Pine Creek Consensus 2018 Reg. # 17471907 EPD’s BW 1.7 WW 63 YW 106 Milk 22 Birth weight 78 lb.

205 Wt. 708 lb., WR 111 365 Wt. 1210 lb., YR 107

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Let our professional service & pricing win you over.

Call your Sales Representative or 877-347-9100 318 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

PINE CREEK ANGUS RANCH ~ LYLE & MIRIAM WEISS

THAT FILLS YOUR HERD SIRE NEEDS

17013 Maurine Road • Faith, SD 57626 (605) 748-2217 • 605-515-0118 • pcar@gwtc.net

Sale consultant: Dan Piroutek 605-685-4556 • Auctioneer: Seth Weishaar 605-210-1124

and

Our Favorite Recipes

THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • 319

What's for Dinner The ringmen with Tri-State Livestock News do a lot of traveling to bull sales this time of year. One thing most bull sales offer is food.

Here are some of the recipes for foods fondly remembered by our ringmen.

Grilled Tenderloin Sandwiches TK Angus • Gordon, Nebraska

Beef tenderloin - thawed with silver skin removed Fold narrow end of tenderloin down toward middle and tie to create more uniform thickness (one end will be very thick and the opposite end will be more narrow). Coat with virgin olive oil. Season with sea salt and pepper, or any of your favorite seasonings.

Heat grill to 500 degrees. Place meat on grill and turn frequently for even cooking. Cook to desired doneness.

Cut meat approximately 1/2" thick and serve on a 4" dinner roll with sauce if desired (creamy horseradish sauce, mayonnaise, barbecue sauce, etc.).

This the recipe/description for the Beef Tenderloin Sandwiches we serve at our sale. Originally my father, Dick Prusia, cooked the meat for our sale. After he passed away, my cousin, Dan Kling, took over the cooking of the meat, and he does a fantastic job. ~Kim Marlatt

Hot Beef Sundaes

Bieber Red Angus • Craig & Peggy Bieber • Leola, South Dakota In a bowl or on a plate, place a piece of bread (optional). Top with sliced roast beef, then a couple scoops of mashed potatoes. Ladle gravy over the top. Finish with a dollop of sour cream and a cherry tomato.

When Craig and Peggy Bieber went to a New York Beef Council meeting they met with food influencers like dieticians, retail meat people and chefs, who shared ideas they’d used to promote beef. Hot Beef Sundaes are one of those ideas they served at the New York State Fair, and they always drew a crowd.

It’s more of an idea than a recipe. Peggy orders the 150 pounds of roast beef and accompanying gravy from a local restaurant and Craig’s mom makes the mashed potatoes.

320 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

Baked Beans

Jack Sieben • Caterer • Mission Hill, South Dakota 1 gallon can Bush’s baked beans, drained 1 bottle Brer Rabbit full-flavor molasses 1/3 cup yellow mustard 1/3 pound bacon, chopped 1 large onion, diced 1/2 tsp garlic 1/4 tsp liquid smoke Fry bacon with onion, garlic and liquid smoke until bacon is cooked through and onion is translucent. Add to drained beans and mix. Add brown sugar to taste, starting with about 1 cup. Put in a slow cooker or roaster and cook on low for at least three hours.

These reheat well and can be made ahead of time. Tip: If the beans are too runny, add a little oatmeal. By the time it gets cooked in, no one can tell. (continued on next page)

Bull Sale Potato Salad Broken Heart Ranch • Sue Pederson • Firesteel, South Dakota DRESSING

1 cup vinegar 1 cup water 1 cup sugar 6 well beaten eggs 2 tbsp. flour 1 large tbsp. prepared mustard 1/2 tsp. salt (continued on next page)

Basic Kolache Recipe

Koupal Angus • Alice Koupal • Dante, South Dakota

2 cups warm milk 1 stick butter, melted 1 T. salt 1/2 cup sugar 1/2 cup water 2 eggs 7 cups flour 2 pkg. yeast Mix yeast in water with 1 tsp of sugar. Set aside. Beat eggs and sugar until fluffy. Add salt, melted butter, milk and dissolved yeast. Add 4 cups flour and mix well. Gradually add 3 more cups. Knead well. Cover and let set in warm place until double (about 45 minutes). Make into egg-size balls and set on greased pan. Let rise again to double. Take dough and either use your finger or a rolling pin to make a flat circle about 5 inches across (I prefer fingers). Put a heaping teaspoon of filling in center of circle and bring opposite sides together, pinching and laying on top of the filling. Repeat with the opposite side. Basically you should have a square when you are finished. Let rise again, then bake at 350 degrees until brown. After removing from oven, brush with shortening to make them shiny. (continued on next page)

THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • 321

Baked Beans (cont.)

Jack Sieben cooks like his grandmother taught him to. “She cooked for taste, not for calories,” he says.

That approach has been popular with the clients of his catering business. It’s a client base he’s gained largely through word-of-mouth and his job as a nutritionist with J & R Distributing. He uses family recipes and recipes he’s developed through nearly 30 years of catering and cooking competitions. He caters about a dozen bull sales a year in northeastern South Dakota.

The baked beans he serves alongside top sirloin sandwiches, prime rib or barbecued ribs are adapted from his mother’s recipe. Not wanting to spend eight hours soaking and cooking beans, he uses canned beans, then returns to the recipe that has been in his family for at least three generations.

Bull sale potato salad (cont.)

Let vinegar, water and sugar come to a boil. Temper with beaten eggs, flour, mustard and salt. Stir constantly until it thickens. Will keep for weeks and can also be used for coleslaw.

SALAD

40 pounds potatoes 10 dozen eggs 1 onion and 6 sticks celery ground in food processor (drain off juice) Salt and pepper to taste Miracle Whip Sweet pickle relish Mix even parts dressing mix and Miracle Whip with onion, celery and pickle relish. You can add condensed milk to thin mixture. For the bull sale I use two batches of the dressing, and a gallon of Miracle Whip.

Tip: Find a grandson that loves potato salad and let him taste and tell you what it needs.

Basic Kolache (cont.)

Apricot Topping Ingredients

2 cups dried apricots (12 ounces/340 grams) 1 cup orange juice (or 1 cup water and 1 tablespoon lemon juice) (8.5 ounces/240 grams) 1/2 cup granulated sugar, light brown sugar, or honey (3.5 ounces/100 grams) 1 to 2 tbsp lemon juice or dark rum Of course there is always a story behind an ethnic dish. Even though I am Czech, when LaVern and I got married more than 50 years ago, I knew nothing of Kolaches. I came from a small town 30 miles away and though I had seen these things they called kolaches or rolicky. I had no idea how to make them. The small community of Dante where LaVern and I made our home is strictly Czech and to fit in, you needed to make Kolaches. The good Czech lady that patiently taught me how to make these, along with how to render lard is gone and I am now teaching my granddaughters this lost art. This is an ethnic sweet roll especially craved by the Czech people. Many different fillings are used, apricot, poppy seed and prune are the most sought after but some also make cottage cheese, cherry and apple.

322 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

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

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Broadcast Live Online at

Livestock Market • NAPOLEON, ND

• MANDAN, ND

NAPOLEON LIVESTOCK

SIOUX FALLS REGIONAL LIVESTOCK

701-754-2216

ND’s #1 YEARLING MARKET Regular Cattle Sale Every Thursday Monthly Cow Sales Through April Large Yearling Runs: Aug.-Sept.

40,000 Feeder Cattle Sold Jan.-Apr. Ray Erbele: 701-424-3307 Jim Bitz: 701-754-2404 Paul Bitz: 701-754-2440 George Bitz: 701-754-2857 For Market Reports & Upcoming Consignments.

Check out our website: napoleonlivestock.com

• BELLE FOURCHE, SD

BELLE FOURCHE LIVESTOCK AUCTION REGULAR CATTLE SALES THURSDAY Sale Barn: 605-892-2655

Thor Roseth, Owner 605-685-5826 Jeff Long, Owner 605-515-0186

Brett Loughlin 605-210-0615 Randy Curtis 605-892-5694 K.P. Stevens 406-784-2459 Craig Deveraux 307-746-2317 Mike Greenough 307-620-2597 Joe Vodicka 307-351-2024 Dan Piroutek 605-544-3316 Bob Anderson 605-641-1042 Bill Johnson 605-866-4813 Gary Krell 307-746-8051

• FAITH, SD

Regular Sales on Monday Wed. Sheep Sales in Season Phone 605-967-2200 Gary Vance........605-967-2162 Scott Vance.....605-739-5501 Cell: 605-484-7127 Max Louglin..605-244-5990 Glen King..605-390-3264 www.faithlivestock.com e-mail: flc@faithsd.com

Jct. I-29 & Hwy 18, Canton, SD • Exit 62 Manager - Bill & Fred Kist 701-663-9573

Toll-Free in North Dakota 800-732-1163

Regular Sales Every Wednesday Horse & Dairy Sales Last Saturday of Each Month • LEMMON, SD

LEMMON LIVESTOCK INC. 605-374-3877 800-822-8853 • Regular Sales Every Wednesday

SALE SCHEDULE Mon: 10:00AM Feeder Cattle/Slaughter Cows & Bulls Wed: 9:00AM Sheep & Goats Wed: 11:00AM Fed Cattle/Slaughter Cows & Bulls Fri: 12:00PM Bred Cows & Cow/Calf Pairs (in season) For sale results or early listings check out our website or call 605-372-8000 • 866-531-6182 www.sfrlinc.com LOCALLY OWNED BY PEOPLE YOU KNOW & TRUST

• ST. ONGE, SD

P.O. Box 290

Paul Huffman, Owner/Mgr. 605-374-5675 605-645-2493 Chad Hetzel, Asst. Mgr. 701-376-3748 Clint Ehret, Baker Field Rep. 406-778-3282 or 406-772-5522

• DICKINSON, ND

STOCKMENS LIVESTOCK EXCHANGE Selling Thursdays 701-225-8156 800-472-2667 (ND & MT only)

“For the Best in NorthernGrown Feeder Cattle” All Fresh Rancher-Consigned Cattle Being Weighed On Computerized Ring Scale

Cattle Sell Every Friday • St. Onge, SD 605-642-2200 • 800-249-1995

Barney Barnes - Sheep Yards Mgr. Justin Tupper - Cattle Yards Mg. & Auctioneer: 605-456-2582 605-680-0259 • 605-722-6323 Gilbert Wood - Fieldman/Auctioneer: Brooke Tupper - Off. Mgr.: 605-456-2400 605-642-2200 Fieldman: Tim Tetrault: 605-641-0328 • Ron Frame: 605-641-0229 Jess Cline: 307-751-8143 • Dustin Vining: 605-354-9966 Ray Pepin: 605-892-5072 • PHILIP, SD

• Special Sales as Advertised

Contact:

St. Onge, SD 57779

Sheep Sell Every Thursday • Newell, SD 605-456-2348 • 800-409-4149

Philip Livestock Auction

Owner: Thor Roseth Philip, SD: 605-685-5826 Auctioneers: Lynn Weishaar: Reva, SD 605-866-4670 Dan Piroutek: Milesville, SD 605-544-3316

Office: 605-859-2577

Fieldmen: Billy Markwed ~ Midland, SD: 605-567-3385 Jeff Long ~ Red Owl, SD: 605-985-5486 Bob Anderson ~ Sturgis, SD: 605-347-0151 Baxter Anders ~ Wasta, SD: 605-685-4862

• VALENTINE, NE

VALENTINE LIVESTOCK AUCTION CO.

Cattle Sales on Thursday Special Feeder Sales Fall, Winter & Spring Greg Arendt, Mgr. 402-376-3611 • 800-682-4874 www.valentinelivestock.net Internet & Private Placements Available

Cattle Sale Every Tuesday

• GLASGOW, MT

GLASGOW STOCKYARDS, INC.

P.O. Box 129 • Glasgow, MT 59230 (406) 228-9306 E-mail: gsi@nemont.net www.glasgowstockyards.com Linda & Mark Nielsen, Owners Iva Murch, Manager Field Representatives Dean Barnes: 406-263-1175 Ed Hinton: 406-893-4462 Representatives for Northern Livestock Video Auction Sale Day Every Thursday

DIRECTORY • PLATTE, SD

Call today to list your Sale Barn in the Tri-State Livestock News

1-877-347-9100 • FT. PIERRE, SD FT.

PIERRE LIVESTOCK AUCTION, INC. Cattle Every Friday

Computerized Ring Scale Special Sales as Advertised

800-280-7210

Sale Barn: 605-223-2576

Dennis Hanson: 605-223-2575 Willie Cowan: 605-224-5796 Jack Carr: 605-259-3613 Brian Hanson: 605-280-1283 Chad Heezen: 605-870-0697 • KIMBALL, SD

KIMBALL LIVESTOCK EXCHANGE Selling Fat Cattle the Auction Way

605-778-6211 • 800-859-2346 Cattle Sell Every Tuesday

OWNER: Wayne Tupper 605-778-8211 Eddie Houska: 605-234-5633 • (C): 605-680-0666 Dick Deffenbaugh: 605-680-1324 Check out our website at: www.wesellcattle.com

• GORDON, NE

• BOWMAN, ND

BOWMAN AUCTION MARKET P.O. Box 58 Bowman, ND 58623 877-211-0600 Regular Sale Every Monday

Marketing Cattle, Horses, Sheep & Hogs Harry Kerr, Mgr. 701-523-5922 701-523-5666 (h) Wayne Miller Field Rep 701-523-6885

• RUSHVILLE, NE

Sheridan LiveStock auction co., inc.

Regular Sales Wednesday Office (308) 327-2406

Horse Sales Every Month As Advertised Hogs Sell at 9:30 a.m.

Weigh-ups & Bulls Sell at 11:00 a.m.

Stock Cattle Sell at 1:00 p.m.

Owner: Dan Otte Fieldmen: Wayde Bolden, Kirk Otte Link Thompson • Galen Voss

• TORRINGTON, WY

626 West Valley Rd. Torrington, WY 307-532-3333

308-282-1171 Dick Minor 308-282-2655 • 308-360-0427 www.gordonlivestock.com

All Classes – Every Friday Yearlings & Calves – Wednesday Bred Cow Specials Go to www.torringtonlivestock.com for current listings, sale schedules & results

Shawn Madden 307-532-1575 Lex Madden – 307-532-1580

• MILES CITY, MT

MILES CITY LIVESTOCK COMMISSION Regular Cattle Sales Tuesday Special Feeder Sales In Season Horse Sales As Advertised Home of Frontier Stockyards www.frontierstockyards.com

Office • 406-234-1790 800-755-5177 Bart Meged • 406-421-5377 Cell 406-951-3005 Rob Fraser • 406-234-2066 Cell 406-853-2066 www.milescitylivestock.com

• CRAWFORD, NE

Sales Every Friday Office: 308-665-2220 Fax: 308-665-2224

Toll Free: 866-665-2220

Horse Sales As Advertised Owners: Jack & Laurel Hunter: 308-665-1402 • Cell: 308-430-9108

www.crawfordlivestock.com e-mail: clm@crawfordlivestock.com • HERREID, SD

HERREID LIVESTOCK MARKET Regular Cattle Sales Every Friday Special Sales by Appointment 605-437-2265

Owners/Managers Hermann Schumacher Joe Vetter J.R. Scott

PLATTE

LIVESTOCK MARKET

800-337-2655 Cattle Sale Each Wednesday Feeder Pigs Monday 12:30 pm Butcher Hogs Monday 1:00 pm Sheep Sales Every Monday 1:30 pm Co-Owners: Scott Kirsch, Sheep & Cattle Rep. 605-337-2616 Marshall Ringling, Sheep & Cattle Rep. 605-243-2328 Alvie Timmermans, Auct. & Mkt. Rep. 605-243-2235 John Dean: (C) 605-680-1972

• PRESHO, SD

PRESHO LIVESTOCK AUCTION SALE EVERY THURSDAY

Presho, SD is located on Interstate 90, 175 miles east of Rapid City, SD Toll-Free: 800-753-6455 Ronald Volmer Res.: 1-605-895-2378 • 605-381-2501 Cody Volmer Res.: 1-605-895-2393 • Cell: 1-605-222-9270

www.presholivestock.com • BILLINGS, MT

BILLINGS LIVESTOCK COMMISSION

Cattle Sales Every Thursday Monday IN Season Northern Livestock Video Auction Horse Sale the 4th weekend of each month For Information or to Consign Call: 1-800-635-7364 or call: Ty Thompson 406-698-4783 Dan Catlin 406-671-7715 Bill Cook 406-670-0689 website: www.billingslivestock.com

• BASSETT, NE

Bassett Livestock Auction, Inc. 402-684-2361 Regular and Special Feeder Cattle Sales on Wednesdays Owners: Arlen (Bim) Nelson • 402-684-3922 Donnie Painter • 402-684-2221 Office Manager: Jeri Nelson • 402-684-2361

Advertiser Index BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

21 Angus Ranch........................................... 326 3C Christensen Ranch................................ 332 Advanced Power.............................................98 Ag & Industrial Equipment..........................79 Amdahl Angus................................................17 American Shorthorn Association............. 171 APT Technologies....................................... 224 Arnold Realty............................................... 197 Arrowsmith Red Angus.............................. 329 Assman Implement............................41 & 155 Badlands Red Angus................................... 160 Baker Hereford Ranch...................................17 Bakers Lemar Angus Ranch.........................33 Bale Buddy Manufacturing, Inc...................74 Bar 69 Ranch...................................................10 Bar JZ Ranches................................................12 Barenthsen/Bullinger Red Angus............. 246 Barstow Angus Ranch................................. 270 Bartos Angus................................................ 223 Baxter Angus Farm........................................83 Bejot Feed Lots............................................. 199 Benda Ranch Simmentals.............................73 Bentz Equipment......................................... 148 Bieber Red Angus.............................................8 Bill’s Volume Sales..........................................95 Black Hills Stock Show............................... 304 Blair Brothers Angus................................... 243 Booth Cherry Creek Ranch....................... 294 Bridger Steel.....................................................15 Broken Heart Ranch................................... 158 Brooks Chalky Butte Ranch....................... 278 Brozik Angus................................................ 227 Butte Co Equipment................................... 163 Cammack Ranch Supply...............................90 Cargo Stock Farmes.................................... 160 Carls Trailers................................................. 104 Carlson Angus.............................................. 237 CATL Resources.......................................... 133 Cheyenne Charolais.................................... 273 Choat Cattle Co........................................... 329 Churchill Cattle Company............................89 CK Cattle....................................................... 333 Clark & Associates Land............................ 121

Common Sense Mfg................................... 143 Conover Auction Service........................... 111 Cooper Hereford Ranch............................. 242 COWBOY CLASSIC................................... 217 Crook Mountain Angus............................. 258 Crump Red Angus.........................................61 Crystalyx....................................................... 280 Curt Miller Angus............................................6 Deep Creek Angus.........................................18 Dethlefs & Sons Angus............................... 255 DeVries Angus................................................87 Dietz Family Angus..................................... 139 Dikoff Ranch................................................ 156 Doll Ranch.................................................... 257 Dustin Carter..................................................64 Dvorak Hereford Ranch................................94 Ehlke Herefords........................................... 189 Eiachacker Simmentals............................... 300 Ekstrum Simmental - Clay........................ 254 Ellingson Angus........................................... 281 FairView Ranch............................................ 205 Farmers National Company...................... 120 Feddes Red Angus....................................... 297 Fehrman Family Farms.............................. 160 FMG Feed & Seed....................................... 218 Foos Angus Ranch............................................2 Forgey & Graesser Angus........................... 255 Fuoss Angus.................................................. 295 Genex Hawkeye West....................................49 Gill Red Angus..................................................3 Goldies Auto & Trailer Sales...................... 162 Grays Angus Ranch..................................... 119 Grossenburg Implement............................. 137 Gunderson Palmer Nelson & Ashmore Law...86 & 95 Hall and Hall Auctions............................... 274 Hall & Pokorny Red Angus....................... 149 Hartman Cattle Co.........................................65 Heart City Bull Bash......................................36 Heart River Ranch & Genetics.................. 207 Hebbert Charolais Bulls.................................80 Hersruds of Sturgis...................................... 265 Hewitt Land Company.............................. 334 High Plains Genetics................................... 271

Hills View Ranch......................................... 211 Hilltop Angus............................................... 159 Hipke Welding............................................. 241 Hoffman Ranch........................................... 179 Holden Herefords........................................ 316 Honeyman Charolais.................................. 296 Hutchison Western...................................... 286 Iron Mountain Cattle Co............................ 275 J & P Grain Solutions LLC......................... 151 Jamison Herefords & Quarter Horses...... 330 Jauer Dependable Genetic.............................82 JC Heiken Angus......................................... 202 Jenner Equipment........................................ 134 Jindra Angus....................................................96 Johnson Black Simmentals......................... 331 Johnson-Rose Angus................................... 129 Justin Dikoff/DV Auction.......................... 135 Kammerer Livestock................................... 266 Kay Dee Feed................................................ 253 Kennedy Implement.................................... 244 Koupal Angus............................................... 268 Kraye Angus................................................. 307 Krebs Ranch................................................. 336 Kyle Shobe..................................................... 261 Larson Family Ranch.................................. 232 Lehrkamp Livestock.................................... 115 Leland Red Angus....................................... 214 Liewer Enterprises....................................... 120 Lindskov Implement................................... 142 Littau Angus Ranch..................................... 106 Lone Tree Ranch.......................................... 173 Lucky 7 Angus.....................................168 & 69 Lynn Weishaar.............................................. 187 M & J Auto.................................................... 144 Ma & Pa Angus...............................................57 Maher Angus Ranch................................... 181 Malek Angus................................................. 287 Mangen Angus Ranch................................ 245 Martin Ranch....................................................1 Matt Lowery....................................................48 McCumber Angus Ranch...............................9 Medicine Rock Ranch................................. 234 Meyerink Farm Service.............................. 201

THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • 327

Advertiser Index BEEF & BUSINESS 2015 MGR Marketing Tools................................ 215 Midwest Liquid Feeds................................. 201 Milk River Angus........................................ 231 Millar Angus......................................................5 Modern Farm Equipment.............................28 Mohnen Angus............................................ 272 Montana Red Angus Assoc........................ 184 Mount Rushmore Angus.................................4 Mrnak Herefords Ranch............................. 198 Multimin....................................................... 188 Mytty Angus Ranch.................................... 229 Neels Angus.................................................. 124 Never Sweet Ranch...................................... 124 Newport Laboratories................................. 230 Nine Irons Seedstock.................................. 161 No Bull Enterprises..................................... 128 NutraLix...........................................................25 Open A Angus............................................. 207 ORIgen Inc.................................................... 263 Orwig’s Livestock Supplements Inc.......... 251 Ostrand Angus............................................. 113 Palmer Cap-Chur Equip............................. 121 Parasal Manufacturing...................................25 Pass Creek Angus Ranch............................ 226 Pearson Livestock Equip............................ 103 Penny Newman/Cowbos...............................97 Peterson Angus............................................ 239 Pieper Red Angus........................................ 335 Platte Power Sports...................................... 196 Powder River Angus................................... 185 Premier Equipment..................................... 182 Quality Liquid Feeds......................................91 Ranchers Livestock Equipment................. 136 RangeMate.................................................... 269 Rausch Hereford.......................................... 206 Raven Angus Ranch.......................................75 RBM Livestock............................................. 118 Real Tuff Inc................................................. 105 Reich Charolais..................Inside Back Cover Reppe Ranch................................................. 291 Reyes & Russell............................................ 279 Ridder Hereford Ranch.............................. 236 Rockingtree Ranch.........................................90 Rowse Rakes Inc.............................................29

Saddle Mountain Angus............................. 124 Sandhills State Bank.................................... 141 Sandmeier Charolais................................... 247 Schaff Angus Valley..........................................7 Schauer Angus................................................99 Schiefelbein Angus...................................... 190 SD Angus Association.....................248 & 249 SD Red Angus Association...........................37 SD Simmental Assoc................................... 177 Seidel & Sons Trailers....................................24 Select Sires Inc.............................................. 175 Sellman Ranch............................................. 157 Seth Weishaar............................................... 187 Shearer Angus.............................................. 225 Sinclair Cattle Company............... Back Cover Sioux Nation Ag Center................................72 Slagle Angus................................................. 113 Sletten Angus................................................ 302 Smith’s Saddle Butte Ranch........................ 114 Sodak Angus Ranch.................................... 145 Sonstegard Cattle Co......................................88 Soreide Charolais Ranch............................ 193 South Dakota Farmers Union................... 293 Stock Auction Company...............................64 Strohschein Angus..........................................53 Strommen Ranch......................................... 259

Sundance Equipment.................................. 148 Sunrise Angus.............................................. 252 Sutherlin Farms............................................ 323 TechMix LLC................................................ 183 Thomas Ranch............................................. 305 Thorson Herefords...................................... 213 Thorstenson Gelbvieh & Angus................ 290 Thorstenson Herefords............................... 102 Tokach Angus Ranch.................................. 264 Topp Herefords............................................ 276 Torgerson’s..................................................... 286 Tri-State Livestock News 85,132,288,313,318 Upstream Ranch.......................................... 210 Wager Cattle................................................. 333 Wagner Herefords...........................................83 Warner Ranch Shorthorns......................... 107 Watje-Zimmerman Cattle Co......................71 Weber Land & Cattle.................................. 138 Wedge Tent Ranch..........................................70 Weink Charolais................Inside Front Cover Wenzel Construction.....................................60 Werning Cattle Co....................................... 127 West River Industries.................................. 103 Westway Feed Products.............................. 209 Wilkinson Ranch............................................81 Willrodt Motors..............................................53

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328 • TRI-STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS • THE CATTLE JOURNAL - BEEF & BUSINESS 2015

J

OHNSON'S BULL Black Simmental

SALE

35th Annual Bull Sale BULL PALACE • BAKER, MT Feb EB 19,2015 2014 • 1 P.M. F . .18, • 1:00 P.M. SALE DAY PHONE: 406-975-6678

NEW SALE DATE!

Selling 168 Yearling Bulls

POWERFUL BLACK SIM/ANGUS BULLS Stout, thick-made bulls that are moderately developed on our practical, open, big country ranches. Easy calving with excellent performance and dispositions.

Average BW: 83 lbs. Adj 205 Wt: 751 lbs.

(No creep — just grass and mama's milk.)

★ All (Simm x Angus) 1/2 bloods, all polled, 3/4 brothers in large sire groups OTHER SIRES INCLUDE: Paradox (Angus) • Mytty In Focus U359 (Angus)

Years of Breeding Black Sim/Angus The Rancher's Kind —Thick, Balanced and Structurally Correct

J

OHNSON'S Black Simmental Ranch

SS/PRS GUNSLINGER 824X EPDS: CE 15.1, BW 0.8, WW 70, YW 98.6, M 17.5, MARB .14, REA .79, STAY 21.4

C ODY J OHNSON 337 WRANGLER TRAIL • BAKER, MT 59313

406-775-6678 406-975-6678

BROKER ...

Our second calf crop

by Broker. He continues to add muscle and performance to his calves.

... VISION

An Upgrade son with a great EPD profile.

We are anxiously awaiting his first calves this Spring.

... PILGRIM

An powerful bull we are using for his maternal abilities.

Bulls available PRIVATE TREATY January 1st.

Sires Represented ... Hart Eclipse Broker L15 (Angus)

CK CATTLE

Final Answer Earth Quake Upgrade

Chris, Kristi, Cagney, Chesney & Kenidey Effling 19650 Hwy. 47 • Highmore, SD 57345 • 605.852.2684 Chris: 605.769.0142 • Kristi: 605.769.1308 • Cagney: 605.870.0368

... HAMMER

An exciting Upgrade son we purchased for our program to add softness and structural integrity. Hammer has 13 traits in the Top 3% of the Simmental breed.

WAGER CATTLE

Lanny, Jayne & Dusty Wager 30032 Dodge Draw Rd • Gettysburg, SD 57442 605.765.9314 • Lanny: 605.769.1211 • Dusty: 605.769.5010

13167 Arapahoe, Dr. JD Hewitt 605-347-1100 Piedmont, SD â&#x20AC;˘ 57769 Tyson Hewitt 605-206-0034 605.791.2300 ph Tanner Hewitt 605-490-7952 605.791.2312 fax

w w w. h ew i t t l a n d c o m p a n y.c o m The HO Ranch irrigated farm located just west of Vale. SD, is one of the most well improved farm properties in the area. The property is comprised of 149.01 acres consisting of approx. 130 ac. irrigated, class I and II soils, custom built 4,352 sq. ft. home, 2008 two pre-engineered steel buildings (86x50 & 99x40), barn (136x42) and 2013 pivot irrigation system.

The property is being offered either in its entirety priced at $1,050,000.

OR Purchase the 109 acres (98.6 irrigated acres) class I and II soils, 2013 pivot irrigation system, with loafing shed and free flowing spring fed tank. Piced at $450,000 Sweetman Ranch, Sioux Co. Harrison, NE (and Fall River Co. SD): Well-balanced ranch located along the SD/NE boarder. Comprised of 7,485+/- acres, consisting of approximately 1,400 acres in cultivation, 1,900 ac. tame pasture, 600ac. CRP with the balance in well sodded native pasture. Pipeline water, two sets of improvements, with 3+/- miles of creek bottom and 460 AUMâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s grazing lease. This all contiguous ranch is loaded with production potential and priced to sell at $4,300,000. A REAL VALUE ON TODAYS MARKET!

G

LE SA

PE

IN ND

Lake Arikara Ranch, Pierre SD: 288+ acres of solitude within minutes of Pierre, SD and the Missouri River. Ample water is made available thru rural water, and a private well. Dry Run Creek runs thru the property and historic Lake Arikara provides the capstone. Improvements include a nice 1000 sq. ft ranch style. home w/ attached garage and supporting outbuildings.

Fenced and cross-fenced.

Priced at $660,000. (reduced from $695,000) Contact Kendall Smith for more information 605-222-6261

Outstanding Business Opportunity in the Newell South Dakota Area Newell Service Center was created in 2011 and has grown its Market Share through great customer service along with the increase in North Dakota Oil Activity. Offering includes Steel Building with 2 Shop Bays, Bathroom, Office, Sales Lobby, Storage Rooms, 2 Bedroom Living Quarters, and Wash Bays. All tools, equipment, and computer systems pertinent to running the business are included in the sale. Regular course of business includes: Vehicle/Tractor Repair, Tire Sales/Service, Parts Sales, and 2 Carwash Bays. Tremendous access on a corner lot along Main Street just a few blocks from the junction of US Highways 212 and 79. Priced to go at: $850,000.00 Call Tyson at 605.206.0034 or JD at 605.347.1100 Haakon County Farmland, Philip SD: Located in eastern Haakon County is this 320+/- acre parcel of highly productive cropland. The property is comprised mostly of nearly level Ottumwa loam soils with easy access. Spring 2014 possession is still possible. Priced to sell at $608,000 Call Kendall at 605.222.6261.

annual performance leader

Production sale Friday, April 3, 2015 At the Ranch • 1:00 p.m.

Hay Springs, Nebraska

Selling...

140 APnrogduuscYtioeanrlitnegstBedullIAs Red oldest 60% of

r Breeder!

2014 Pionee

Angus Registered Red Years.

Cattle for 41

Performance Leading Herd Bull Prospects and Big Stout Heavy Muscle Range Bulls Sell out of Sires: PIE Code Red LSF Saga Epic Right Kind LSF Prospect

Sandhills Barndance Colt Lumbar Jack

2014 crop

65 RReepglaiscteermedenRt eHdeAifnegus rs 35 BRreegdisFtearlledCRalvedinAg nCgouws s 200 RCeopmlamceemrceianlt RHeedifAernsgus

Bulls are semen tested, carcass ultrasound and carry a first season breeding guarantee. Last year 92% of the bulls sold to commercial cattlemen and sold for $6600 or less. Add pounds to your calf crop with a Pieper bull!

Mark, Deb, or Tate Pieper 3779 550th Rd Hay Spring, NE 69347 H: 308-638-4557 C: 308-430-0989 Tate’s Cell: 308-430-1777 pieperra@gpcom.net

For catalogs call or visit us online at www.pieperredangus.com

35th Annual

Thursday, February 19th 12:30 p.m. MST • At the Ranch • Gordon, Nebraska Featuring the Best in Krebs Ranch Angus & SimAngus Genetics!

250 ANGUS BULLS

35 SIM x ANGUS BULLS

200 FANCY COMMERCIAL ANGUS HEIFERS …Every bull carries the predictable, trusted & proven performance genetics of Krebs Ranch sires!

SONS OF THESE POPULAR KREBS RANCH HERD SIRES SELL…

Barstow Cash

Sitz Dash x Final Answer

K Bar D Joe Canada 18Y

Soo Line Alternative x Traveler 004

CFCC Black Jack 001

Silveiras El Capitan x Vermilion Dateline

Selling 485 Head • • 308-360-1949 Eldon Krebs 308-360-1972 Ty Krebs • 308-360-3223 Jake Scott

HF Simulator 62Z

MCATL Pure Product x HF Tiger 5T

Toll-Free: 1-800-761-2077 Email: info@sinclaircattle.com

Office: 307-737-2296 Mobile: 307-254-1477

Please call or email Logan Baker for more information and if you would like to stop in and see the bulls or visit about our program. We look forward to seeing you at our production sale in Buffalo, Wyoming.

Sinclair Emulation XXP Bulls like this SELL on March 28 Sinclair Emulation 5522 XP 7F6 Sinclair Emulation 0A2 Sinclair Emulation 1A2 Sinclair Emulation 0F4 Sinclair Entrepreneur 8R101 Sinclair Executive 9XV2 Sinclair Express 6V47 Sinclair Executive 4U2 Sinclair Grass Master 8BT2 Sinclair Rito 2R1 Bulls out of these dams SELL Sinclair Timeless 8BA4 Sinclair X-Changer 2FE9 Emulation 31 Emulation 5522 Ideal 1418 of 8103 4286 N Bar Emulation EXT OCC Great Plains Sinclair Blkbird 7OC10 J472 Sinclair Emulous 4ET1 D47 Papa Rito Intense 6844

Featured Sires

Selling 100+ Bulls 20+ Heifer Calves

Buffalo Livestock Auction Buffalo, Wyoming

March 28, 2015

PRODUCTION SALE

Rito Lineage

Emulation Lineage

Traveler Lineage

Reliable genetic packages result from our planned, multi-generational breeding program, which focuses on the use of proven genetics to get a live calf on the ground, a cow that is fertile, and a quality carcass.

Sinclair Cattle company, inc.