Brangus Issue

Serving the Bos indicus Cattle Industry of America | September 2013

Brangus Issue Briggs Ranches 10th Annual Santa Gertrudis Bull Sale 75 “Ready to Work” Gert Bulls Sell! 200 Select “Star 5” Commercial Females Sell! Friday • October 18, 2013 • 11a.m.

These Star 5 heifers sell bred to Angus Bulls. All of these heifers will be sorted into uniform groups.

Beef Bulls To Fit Any Program Guest Bull Consignors: Corporron Acres Harris Riverbend Farms John Martin Ranches 36th Annual Tri-Star Santa Gertrudis Sale Saturday • October 19, 2013 • 11a.m. An offering of performance proven genetics from three of the most respected and consistent programs in the industry...featuring Briggs Ranches, Corporron Acres, All sale events at Briggs Ranches, and Harris Riverbend Farms Facebook Page E-mail Joe Jones: Bloomington, Texas facebook.com/briggsranch [email protected] Briggs Ranches PO Box 1417 • Victoria, Texas 77902 (361) 573-7141 • Joe Jones, manager (361) 897-1337 • cell (361) 550-0994 Traylor Division San Roque Division San Carlos Division (Bloomington, Texas) (Catarina, Texas) (Rio Grande City, Texas) The EAR september 2013 | 1 I will admit that I am not as familiar with the origin and performance of the Brangus breed as I am with some of the other Eared breeds and that is mainly because of where I was raised and am now located in South Tex- as. We have a few Brangus breeders in this part of Texas, probably more Brangus bulls than one would expect, and it is a popular breed throughout the Southern US. Columns 6 Have You Heard...the Truth 8 The Science of Bos inducus 8

Genomic technology is useful for improv- Features ing beef cattle. It’s easy to become over- whelmed when thinking about genomics 14 Genomics & Beef Cattle because the process involves thousands to Breeding, Beyond 50K! millions of genotypes known as BIG DATA; therefore, it is important to understand that 18 Angus/Red Angus to Bran- the results of the process is improving the gus/Red Brangus in Three accuracy of an animal’s expected progeny difference (EPD) as to be able to rank ani- Generations mals for selection. 24 All You Ever Needed to Know About Semen Collection 14 Departments 19 Beefmaster Headlines A recent bylaw change approved by the membership within the International Bran- 28 Braford Headlines gus/Red Brangus Breeders Association (IBBA) has now provided a new opportunity 28 Brangus Headlines to add new genetics to the gene pool. The new rule allows for the use of Brangus/Red Red Brangus Headlines Brangus crossed with Angus/Red Angus, 36 with the resulting progeny then top crossed two more generations with Brangus/Red 38 Santa Gertrudis Headlines Brangus to be registered as Brangus/Red 40 Simbrah Headlines Brangus. 18 Other 40 Industry News The WHY, HOW, WHEN and much more of 44 Bos inducus Bulletin Board Semen Collection. Topping the list of reasons are genetic insurance, expanding the 46 Advertiser’s Index influence of the bull’s genetics and proving, testing or sampling sires. 47 Calendar < On the Cover: “Young Herd Sire Prospect” - Photo taken at Salacoa Valley Farms in Fairmount, Georgia by Nancy 24

2 | september 2013 The EAR The EAR september 2013 | 3 OctOber 3, 2013 REQUEST YOUR SALE CATALOG TODAY! 10:00AM BURTON COLISEUM COMPLEX LAKE CHARLES, LA Performance updates for the program bulls are available at www.brafords.org under the Genetics tab. Also selling registered females as well as some quality commercial females. FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: UBB OFFICE: [email protected] Sale Consultant: Jim Harvey: 863-697-6624 ADAMS RANCH HEIFERS New this year: Offering 55 head of Adams Ranch Braford heifers calving to Adams Ranch AB Bulls. To calve January-March.

PLUS Selling 12 head of elite Registered Braford breed leading females and embryos. 'RQ·WPLVVWKLVRSSRUWXQLW\

Sells as Lot 57 | PH FUTURE 470 P53B Sells as Lot 59 | HR HAMMER 827 BW BM WW YW M TM CW FAT REA MARB BW BM WW YW M TM CW FAT REA MARB -0.1 1.5 11 19 5 10 20 0.09 0.23 -0.08 0.3 2.6 13 24 5 11 23 0.02 0.24 -0.03

MARK COWAN [email protected] | 903-495-4522 TREY KIRKPATRICK [email protected] | 979-324-5518 RICHARD HOOD [email protected] | 979-224-6150 Sells as Lot 39 | HR ROY 7152 Sells as Lot 34 | LSS MR MAV 205 BRAD WRIGHT BW BM WW YW M TM CW FAT REA MARB BW BM WW YW M TM CW FAT REA MARB [email protected] | 979-219-4599 -0.3 1.6 13 28 2 8 28 0.12 0.25 0.08 0.2 2.7 13 14 4 11 12 0.08 0.14 0.13

www.aspenedgemarketing.com 4 | september 2013 The EAR The EAR september 2013 | 5 Have You Heard....

Serving the Bos indicus the Truth Cattle Industry of America Welcome to our Brangus issue. You will find in The EAR Magazine these pages advertisements from the leading Brangus c/o AMS Genetics breeders across the nation, as well as other leading PO Box 10 Wheelock, TX 77882 breeders of Bos Indicus cattle. In addition we will feature articles on Genomically enhanced EPDs, Physical: some history on the Brangus breed, Brangus articles 10541 E OSR and news. By all means we hope you enjoy our focus Hearne, TX 77859 on the different breeds throughout the year. Our focus as a publication remains on Bos indi- Phone: 979/828-2722 cus influenced cattle. Our message is simple, in the Fax: 979/828-5532 global cattle industry, our kind of cattle are the driv- www.amscattle.com/the-ear-magazine/ ing force. Now we are aware that statement alone will shock many of the U.S. cattle producers and many of the publications that support the same. Let me share some facts with you. There are approximately 1.4 billion Brad Wright cattle in the world. Over 50% of those cattle, or 750 million, are produced Billing between the tropic of Capricorn and the Tropic of Cancer according to the 979/219-4599 2009 UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). The average tempera- [email protected] ture and humidity in those locations requires Bos indicus genetics to thrive and in some cases, even to survive. If you expand the line both north and Mark Cowan south to include an area equal to I-70 through Kansas City, an area where Bos Advertising Sales 903/495-4522 indicus influence improves efficiency and adds pounds to weaning weights, [email protected] according to the FAO over 1 billion cattle out of 1.4 billion total are, or should be, carrying Bos indicus influence ranging from some to 100%. Richard Hood Those are pretty staggering numbers when you think about the global Advertising Sales cattle industry. They are also diametrically opposite to the feeling that pre- 979/224-6150 vails in the U.S. cattle industry. In fact, when analyzing industry on a global [email protected] basis, one might conclude that if you have no Bos indicus influence in your cow herd as a seedstock producer, you have no chance to compete. Just some Trey Kirkpatrick food for thought. Advertising Sales 979/324-5518 We look forward to serving you. [email protected] Mark Cowan Crystal Devoll Graphic Designer/Layout Artist 979/820-8358 [email protected]

Member:

Published on the first day of each month. Correspondence on all phases of the cattle business is invited. Publisher reserves exclusive right to accept or reject advertising or editorial material submitted for publication in The EAR magazine. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to : The EAR c/o AMS Genetics, PO Box 10, Wheelock, Texas 77882, 979-219-4599, FAX 979-828- 5532.

6 | september 2013 The EAR The EAR september 2013 | 7 The Science of Bos indicus THE ORIGIN AND featuring Dr. Joe Paschal Professor & Livestock Specialist Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service PERFORMANCE OF Corpus Christi, Texas Brangus Cattle I will admit that I am not as familiar with the origin and performance of the Brangus breed as I am with some of the other Eared breeds and that is mainly because of where I was raised and am now located in South Texas. We have a few Brangus breeders in this part of Texas, probably more Brangus bulls than one would expect, and it is a popular breed throughout the Southern US. My first exposure to Brangus cattle came when I was an under- graduate at Texas A&M University in the early 1970s. I part-time worked for a realtor who was in the Brangus and Brahman business. He had a herd of F1 Brahman x Angus females and some Brahman cows and was using a Brahman bull to produce ¾ Brahman ¼ Angus calves that could be bred to Angus to create first generation Bran- gus. The holy grail at that time was to produce a solid black, polled, 3/4 blood bull to mate to Angus cows. The 5/8 Angus-3/8 Brahman offspring of that cross are eligible for registry as purebreds in the International Brangus Breeders Association. The right one would (if I were to guess) have been worth a lot of money back then. I don’t know because the only one we had died at calving (due in large part to my ignorance of what we now call Large Offspring Syndrome), but I did save the cow. After 40 years I still remember her tag number, 638. The association still has an open herd book for qualifying Brahman and Angus and Red Angus foundation animals.

8 | september 2013 The EAR Parts of that area had been straightbred Hereford country for a long time of Agriculture W. H. Black wrote that the crosses were with a Guzerat bull). The Science of Bos indicus but crossing with black bulls had become popular. There were a lot of Black There were a number of cattlemen along the Gulf Coast who were look- featuring Dr. Joe Paschal THE ORIGIN AND Baldy or Baldie, so called because they had a black body and a mostly white ing for the same thing and others used different crosses and breeds; all have Professor & Livestock Specialist face, calves sold and quite a few of them in the local cow herds. These F1 been successful breeds. According to Purdy et al., a cattleman named Frank Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service Angus-Herefords exhibited hybrid vigor for growth and the heifers and cows Buttram had a foreman by the name of Raymond Pope who in 1939 began PERFORMANCE OF Corpus Christi, Texas for reproductive performance, maternal ability and longevity just as you working with Dr. A. O. Rhoad (misspelled in the book as H. O. Rhoad) to would expect. Shortly after I got there, Brangus cattle, especially bulls, be- “determine the minimum amount of Brahman blood to impart the necessary gan to become popular. When commer- heat, disease, and insect resistance”. That cial cattle ranchers saw their first Bran- research indicated that about 3/8 Brah- gus sired calves out of those Hereford Brangus cattle have the potential man was the minimum. cows they began calling them “Super Black Baldies”. Being that they had some to go nearly anywhere in the US Pope and Buttram formed a partner- Brangus Brahman influence in them, the level of ship and moved near Welch, Oklahoma hybrid vigor was increased and all those that has subtropical conditions and to breed Brangus at the Clear Creek important traits were kicked up a notch! thrive. Ranch. In Texas, Tom Slick and his manager Travis Richardson set up a similar These Super Black Baldies had enough crossing program at the Essar Ranch Cattle Brahman influence in them (3/16) to near San Antonio. In 1949, a group of confer hot climate adaptability plus 100% heterosis for growth, fertility, ma- interested breeders met to form the American Brangus Breeders Association, I will admit that I am not as familiar with the origin and performance of the Brangus breed as I am with some ternal ability and longevity when out of parents of unrelated breeds. This later renamed the International Brangus Breeders Association. In 2005 the certainly established a strong rapport with the commercial cattlemen across International Red Brangus Breeders Association became an affiliate associa- of the other Eared breeds and that is mainly because of where I was raised and am now located in South Texas. the southern US. When the first high-marbling branded beef program was tion and the IBBA herd book was opened to include Red Brangus. We have a few Brangus breeders in this part of Texas, probably more Brangus bulls than one would expect, and it established in 1986, black Brangus crosses with little sign of Bos indicus is a popular breed throughout the Southern US. My first exposure to Brangus cattle came when I was an under- influence could fit the specifications for type and coat color. Brangus bulls The IBBA has a number of programs for both purebred and commercial became widely used in many commercial cow herds in South and South Cen- breeders who want Brangus influence in their herd. The Ultrablack™ and -Ul graduate at Texas A&M University in the early 1970s. I part-time worked for a realtor who was in the Brangus tral Texas and the rest of the southern US, and still are. In fact, a few months trared ™ programs offer all breeders a range of Angus and Brahman influence and Brahman business. He had a herd of F1 Brahman x Angus females and some Brahman cows and was using a ago I drove up to Oklahoma City to the 2013 Beef Improvement Federation in both black and red coat color. The Brangus Gold program promotes the Brahman bull to produce ¾ Brahman ¼ Angus calves that could be bred to Angus to create first generation Bran- Meeting and I would say the majority of black bulls I saw from San Antonio use of Brangus bulls on commercial cows. The IBBA is also participating in to the Red River were Brangus type bulls on various types of commercial and the “2000 Bull Project” at the US Meat Animal Research Center in Nebraska gus. The holy grail at that time was to produce a solid black, polled, 3/4 blood bull to mate to Angus cows. The straightbred (Brangus and non-Brangus) cows. where geneticists are hoping to unravel the genomes of widely used bulls 5/8 Angus-3/8 Brahman offspring of that cross are eligible for registry as purebreds in the International Brangus from 16 different breeds (Brahman, Beefmaster, and Santa Gertrudis are also Breeders Association. The right one would (if I were to guess) have been worth a lot of money back then. I don’t According to my own reading, the IBBA website, and the book “Breeds involved). If successful, genomic predictions for trait performance would be of Cattle” by Purdy, Dawes and Hough (2008), scientific work to find the greatly improved. know because the only one we had died at calving (due in large part to my ignorance of what we now call Large “best beef cattle type suited to the hot, humid conditions of the Gulf Coast” Offspring Syndrome), but I did save the cow. After 40 years I still remember her tag number, 638. The associa- began at the Iberia Livestock Experiment Farm in Jeanerette, Louisiana, in I would be remiss to not write a little about research in Brangus. In earlier 1912. By 1932 it was determined there that the most effective cross was writings about other breeds it was interesting to see how early researchers be- tion still has an open herd book for qualifying Brahman and Angus and Red Angus foundation animals. between the Brahman and the Angus (according the 1935 USDA Yearbook gan evaluating the breed I was writing about, what they evaluated it for, what

Brangus bulls became widely used in many commercial cow herds in South and South Central Texas and the rest of the southern US, and still are. Purebred Brangus consist of 5/8 Angus-3/8 Brahman.

The “Super Black Baldie” resulted from Brahman bull and Angus cow on winter pasture near Example of cows that are on test at the University of crossing Hereford and Brangus. Alfed, Texas. Florida.

The EAR september 2013 | 9 their perceptions of it were at the time, and how the breed fared in research today (which is a sign of how it is perceived in the classroom). Besides the work already referred to in Louisiana (and undoubtedly the earliest) some of the earliest research with Brangus cattle in Texas (that was published where I could find it) was by J. H. Jones with Texas Agricultural Research Station at Ysleta (on the border with Mexico, just below El Paso). I didn’t know we had ever had a station there but this unpublished work was referred to in a paper written by Dr. O.D. Butler on factors affecting dressing percentage differences in Hereford and Brahman x Hereford steers. There was some con- fusion at that time as to whether or not Brahman and Brahman crosses had higher or lower dressing percentages and much of the early carcass research in Brahman crosses was not about marbling or tenderness but dressing percent because of its effect on saleable weight. Brahman crosses tended to have higher dressing percentages. In this study, 15 Brangus steers were fed (pay weight 931 pounds in El Paso) and were shipped on a train to Ft. Worth for slaughter. They shrank 5.4% on the train ride and still had a dressing percent of 62.6%! The Hereford steers they were compared to had a lower dressing percent. When we conducted the Texas A&M Ranch to Rail Program the number of Brangus and Brangus crosses increased over the years and those steers did as well or better than any in the yard and their carcasses were second to the few Angus in marbling and quality grade. A long running research program at the University of Florida comparing various crosses of Angus and Brahman including straightbred Brangus has provided a large amount of significant research on cattle production in subtropical and tropical areas including reproduction, growth and carcass merit.

Brangus cattle, like all the eared breeds, have the potential to go nearly anywhere in the US that has subtropical conditions and thrive. Because of their Angus heritage they are black in color, a widely accepted marketable trait and universally polled. They like the other Eared breeds cross well with other non Eared breeds to produce marketable calves and replacement females that are popular with cattlemen and feeders across the South. v

SELLS WITH 100 UNITS OF SEMEN 11 Stout Herd Bull Sons also Selling th HeHe Sells!Sells! Saturday, October 12 , 2013 ShermanSherman ofof RRRRRR 548W9548W9 at the SVF “Buy the Numbers” Sale

Robertson x Miss Brinks Captain 548N2

BW WW YW MILK SC REA IMF

1.3 37 52 12 0.00 0.53 0.00

BW 205 365 SC REA 365 IMF 365

78 763(118) 1414(128) 37.3 14.78(117) 3.74(97)

He’s impressive! Powerful growth with added bone, muscle, and rib in an extra eye-appealing package. Consistently sires thick and attractive o spring. Come see for yourself. He & 11 of his sons sell on October 12th at Salacoa Valley Farms, Fairmount, GA. For more information or to request a catalog, visit www.amscattle.com.

10 | september 2013 The EAR The EAR september 2013 | 11 12 | september 2013 The EAR The EAR september 2013 | 13 Genomics and CattleBeyond Breeding, 50K! By Dr. Milt Thomas and John E. Rouse, Chair of Animal Breeding Department of Animal Sciences, Colorado State University Genomic technology is useful for improving beef cattle. It’s easy to become over- whelmed when thinking about genomics because the process involves thousands to millions of genotypes known as BIG DATA; therefore, it is important to understand that the results of the process is improving the accuracy of an animal’s expected progeny difference (EPD) as to be able to rank animals for selection. Genetic improvement is typically measured as an increase in EPD over many years. For example, the average yearling weight in a breed of cattle such as Brangus was +2.5 in 1970 and it improved to +45.5 lbs in 2012 (Figure 1). This improvement is a result of selection for growth by the breeders for 42 years. The more accurately the calculation of EPDs can be accomplished, the faster the rate of genetic improvement can be observed by breeders using EPDs for mating decisions.

Why genomics: We now use genomics as the DNA-tool to improve accuracy of EPD rather than a few genotypes. Genomics means “all the DNA information”. In practice, it is a term meaning genotyping a large number of loci across all 30 cattle chromosomes. It is important to measure the entire genome as there are 25,000 to 30,000 genes in cattle and many of the economically relevant traits are polygenic (i.e., regulated by many genes). For example, weaning weight is influenced by thousands of genes, so we need lots of genotypes on many chromosomes to effectively estimate an animal’s molecular breeding value (MBV) for weaning weight. An MBV is a numeric value for an animal. There is a statistical process that will estimate a positive or negative ma- value for each genotype. Adding up all the pluses and minuses will equate to trix an animal’s MBV. process. The dairy in- MBVs are being estimated from genotypes on a laboratory chip known as dustry, particularly BovineSNP50 (Figure 2). Within each well, this chip has 50,000 genotypes Holstein, quickly trans- so it is commonly called the 50K chip. DNA from 24 animals is placed in lated genome technology into the the individual wells on the chip and a computer system reads the genotypes calculation of their EPD. The first bovine for each animal. Zoetis and GeneSeek are two prominent companies that genome sequence was completed in 2004, Illumina provide cattle genotyping services using the chips manufactured by Illumina, manufactured BovineSNP50 in 2006, and the first Holstein genetic Inc. evaluation including genomic information was completed in 2008. Several USDA and university scientists were involved in this technology translation, The process of calculating EPDs has evolved a lot over the past 50 to 60 which was greatly helped by the fact that semen from Holstein bulls was years. The statistical models started with pedigree-based (i.e., animal) models readily available to supply DNA for genotyping. In Holstein, this process has and added multi-trait, multi-breed, and now genome-enhanced (gEPD) pro- worked great as it improves accuracy of non-parent EPD to the point that cedures. There are two types of gEPD procedures 1) MBV and 2) genomic rela- the 6 year sire-proofing process can be minimalized. The adoption of this tionship matrix. The MBV procedure is being used by several beef cattle breed technology for beef cattle breeds has been much slower. Specifically, breed associations, while the dairy industry primarily uses the genomic relationship associations have been working with the National Beef Cattle Evaluation

14 | september 2013 The EAR Consortium (NBCEC) as to acquire genotypes on several thousand sires as with the HD meaning “high density” (i.e., 800,000 genotypes across the to develop a resource large enough conduct the statistics of estimating MBV. 30 cattle chromosomes). With knowledge of so many genotypes, the chip For many beef cattle breeds, this process has taken several years. Nonethe- products and companies selling genotyping services are competing; thus, less, accuracy is improved by adding MBV to the EPD system. In a recent genotyping costs per animal are becoming much cheaper. Typical costs of presentation at the American Society of Animal Science meeting, NBCEC genotyping/animal are approximately $250, $100, and $45 for the HD, 50K scientists from Iowa State University (Saatchi and Garrick) reported accuracy and lower density chips. Competition in the genomics market is a beneficial values in the 0.2 to 0.4 range in Hereford cattle when varied numbers of to the beef industry. However, we all must realize that DNA technology, and genotypes were used in simple models to calculate the MBV. These observed the translation of these technologies, will continue to rapidly evolve. levels of accuracies are encouraging and an improvement to the levels initially estimated via genomic technology in beef cattle. How do we keep up with advancing technology: The most prevalent challenge to the segments of the beef industry working What does a gEPD program look like? with genotyping technology will be deciding the most cost effective genotyp- Several beef cattle breed associations have implemented or are ing platform (i.e., which chips and which genotypes to use with their EPD working to implement gEPD programs. These include Angus, Red Angus, system?). In parallel, how will breeding organizations manage these BIG Simmental, Gelbvieh, Hereford, Limousin, Brangus, Brahman, etc. Each of DATA, which quickly makes files terabytes in size (i.e., 1012 bytes). As in these breeds first gathered DNA samples from > 1,000 animals for 50K ge- the history of developing EPD, breeders and breed improvement committees notyping and used this as a training population, which helped assign the plus of breed associations must work hard to understand the technology and how and minus numeric value to each genotype. A breed such as Brangus is soon to best use it for genetic improvement. This will be a challenge as everyone to have finished genotyping 1,587 animals for their training population. For must realize that the federal funding for NBCEC has been eliminated and those breeds that have established training populations, additional animals the base-funding for animal agriculture research at land grant universities has are now being genotyped and their MBV predicted based on the training not kept pace with the value of the dollar for decades. Thus, new partnerships population. The MBV of each animal is then being included into the multi- among the beef industry, USDA, and universities must be formed. v trait EPD calculation. For breeders, it’s a simple process. They submit DNA samples in the form of a hair, blood, or semen sample and payment to the breed association office and get back the gEPD via breed association website. Behind the scenes and over several months, the samples were sent to a lab for DNA extraction, genotyping, MBV calculation, and then the MBV included in the multi-trait EPD calculation. Please note that the gEPD is not a new EPD added to the suite of traits published by a breed association, rather it’s an improvement in accuracy of the currently published EPDs. As genomic research progresses, the MBV technology may be used to publish EPDs for traits that are difficult or very expensive to collect. Examples of such traits are feed efficiency, grazing distribution, health (i.e., bovine respiratory disease), etc. gEPD for these types of traits may always be of low to moderate accuracy, but are extremely valuable in addressing industry-wide challenges.

Evolution of DNA technology: DNA technology is advancing at a pace very similar to computer technology. DNA is very simple as its repeating units of AGCT, which have a reverse complement of TCGA. The Watson-Crick base-pairing allows this biological process to be easily computerized, which meshes well with the data systems of breed associations. In 2004, the first cow sequenced was Domi- nette, an inbred Hereford. The process cost approximately $50 million dollars with the bill being paid by National Institutes Figure 1. Growth trait genetic trend in Brangus cattle 1970 to 2012. of Health, USDA, and several other partners. Today genome sequences can be completed for approximately $5,000 and there is a global project called, “1000 bull genomes” http://www.1000bullgenomes. com/ working to complete the sequence on this many bulls. With all this sequence, comes massive knowledge of genotypes that can be placed on chips. There are currently more than 10 genotyping chips being marketed Figure 2. BovineSNP50 from Illumina, Inc. A genotyping chip with that range from 3K to 800K in 24 wells that each contains DNA probes for 50,000 genotypes. their density. The 800K chip is frequently called BovineSNPHD Important Acronyms: DNA= deoxyribonucleic acid EPD = expected progeny difference gEPD = genome-enhance expected progeny difference MBV = molecular breeding value NBCEC = National Beef Cattle Evaluation Consortium 50K = jargon for the BovineSNP50 chip containing 50,000 genotypes

The EAR september 2013 | 15 16 | september 2013 The EAR The EAR september 2013 | 17 Angus/Red Angus to Brangus/ Red Brangus in Three Generations X By Brad Wright A recent bylaw change approved by the membership within influenced cattle throughout the country. the International Brangus/Red Brangus Breeders Association Remember, as with any breeding program, success will be dependent on (IBBA) has now provided a new opportunity to add new genet- a good plan, the use of quality genetics and strong selection pressure. The ics to the gene pool. The new rule allows for the use of Brangus/ breeders that set a breeding plan at the beginning and follow through with Red Brangus crossed with Angus/Red Angus, with the resulting the best genetics avail- progeny then top crossed two more generations with Brangus/ able and strong se- Red Brangus to be registered as Brangus/Red Brangus. For those lection pressure for replacement females of you keeping up with percentages, these graded up Brangus/ and breeding bulls will Red Brangus would be 7/8 or 87.5% Brangus/Red Brangus be very successful in when they are eligible for registration as a Brangus/Red Bran- meeting industry de- gus. The intermediate products of this grade up process would mand today and into the future. v all be registered through the IBBA Ultrablack/Ultrared program which many of you are already accustomed. See Figure 1 for an Ultrablack bull resulting from Brangus x Angus mating. illustration of the grade up program.

This new way to Brangus/Red Brangus offers many exciting opportunities. For current Brangus/Red Bran- gus breeders, this method offers the ability to interject new genetics from the Angus/Red Angus breed directly to stabilized Brangus/Red Brangus cattle without the variability caused by the traditional Angus/Red Angus x Brahman crosses. This option should be a more vi- able option to breeders that want to add new genetics to their herd, but do not have the facilities to manage the multiple breeding herds needed to produce traditional first generation Brangus/Red Brangus. This grade up option should also allow for a more consistent end product with the addition of new blood to the breed. This also adds tremendous marketability to the already successful Ultrablack/Ultrared program with added breeding options for bulls and females from this program.

This program also offers a better option to Angus/ Red Angus breeders that want to sell to the growing “eared” market. These breeders will now have the ability to use their existing Angus/Red Angus cow herd, and with the use of Brangus/Red Brangus bulls, con- vert all or portions of their herd to registered Brangus/ Red Brangus in three simple generations. In a time where the US is on the brink of a rebuild with almost two thirds of the cattle residing in subtropical environments, breeders are recognizing the real benefits to Bos indicus influenced cattle. This “quicker” method of grade up should allow Brangus/Red Brangus breeders to better meet the increased demands for Bos indicus

18 | september 2013 The EAR Figure 1: The injection of Angus/Red Angus genetics through Enrolled Angus/Red Angus or already registered Ultrablack/Ultrared animals can come from the sire OR dam lines. The grade up process is not restricted to bulls or females.

Registered Brangus/Red Brangus (BN or RB) Recorded Ultrablack/Ultrared (UB) (50% BN – 50% AN) Enrolled Angus/Red Angus* (AN) Recorded UB (75% BN – 25% AN) Registered Brangus/Red Brangus Registered BN/RB (BN or RB) (87.5% BN – 12.5% AN) Registered Brangus/Red Brangus (BN or RB)

It is possible, with the many different combinations of Brangus/Red Brangus and Angus/Red Angus allowed to be registered in the Ultrablack/Ultrared programs, some Ultrablack/Ultrared animals (bulls or females) are not the exact percentages illustrated above. These registered Ultrablack/Ultrared animals can also be used in the grade up program. Resulting offspring can become registered Brangus/Red Brangus when they reach or exceed 87.5% Brangus/Red Brangus.

Registered Brangus/Red Brangus (BN or RB) Recorded UB (Between 50% and 75% BN) Recorded Ultrablack Registered UB (<50% BN or RB) (Between 75% and 87.5% BN) Registered Brangus/Red Brangus Registered BN/RB (BN or RB) (>87.5% BN) Registered Brangus/Red Brangus (BN or RB)

*Enrollment Required BN = Brangus RB = Red Brangus AN = Angus/Red Angus UB = Ultrablack/Ultrared

Beefmaster

Free New Member Ranch Visit Headlines Beefmaster Breeders United (BBU) encourages all new members to take ad- BBU office in San Antonio, along vantage of the free ranch visit offered to all new BBU members. Please con- with directions to your ranch. tact BBU Field Representative Jason Bates at 417-616-9000 or by email at [email protected] to schedule a convenient time for him to stop by and The minimum fee for classification is $350 or $5 per head, whichever is visit about BBU programs, your cattle and any questions or concerns you greater. The minimum fee for upgrading inspections is $250 of $3 per head, may have regarding BBU or the cattle industry. whichever is greater. The minimum fee for a consultation visit is $250. The minimum fee for E6 inspection is $100 or $10 per head, whichever is greater. Any member can utilize our services for classification, inspection, consulta- Please remember that the BBU field service staff will work with you and your tion or the E6 program by calling the BBU office at 210-732-3132 to receive neighbors to reduce individual classification coats is the can be classified in the Ranch Visit Request form by mail or fax. The form can also be download- the same trip. ed via www.Beefmasters.org. Simply complete and return the form to the

Junior Beefmaster Breeders Compete and Give Back to Community One hundred and sixty four Junior Beefmaster Breeders Association (JBBA) of Bryan/College Station, Texas and will be enjoyed by children whose fam- members and their families traveled to the Brazos County Expo Complex in ily can not afford a nutritious breakfast. Elections for the 2013-2014 JBBA Bryan, Texas last week for the 29th Annual JBBA National Convention and directors and officers were also held; as well as educational sessions, auctions, Heifer Show from July 22 through July 27. motivational speakers and a family fun night.

This year’s convention focused on the aspect that JBBA members are not “Besides the exhibition of a great set of Beefmaster cattle by the juniors, this just raising cattle, the association is also teaching future leaders and mem- event provides excellent educational and leadership opportunities for members are giving back. In an effort to give back, these future leaders gathered bers, family and friends,” said Allison Wagner Wells, Junior Program Com- nonperishable breakfast items and assembled “tackle boxes” to help “Tackle mittee Chairman. Childhood Hunger”. The “tackle boxes” were donated to Twin City Mission Continued on page 25

The EAR september 2013 | 19 MMM 36th Annual Tri-Star Santa Gertrudis Sale Saturday, October 19, 2013 • 11a.m. at Briggs Ranches, Traylor Division Bloomington, Texas An offering of performance proven Santa Gertrudis genetics from three of the most respected and consistent programs in the industry... Briggs Ranches, Corporron Acres, and Harris Riverbend Farms

These Great Bred Heifers Sell!

This Great Polled Heifer Sells Bred!

An Outstanding Offering of Santa Gertrudis Genetics from Three Great Programs.Including: Pairs, Bred and Open Females. Auctioneer: Hoover Case For Information and a sale catalog, contact: Joe Jones: office 361/897-1337 • cell 361/550-0994 facebook.com/briggsranch • email Joe Jones: [email protected] Offering Quality Santa Gertrudis for 36 years! 20 | september 2013 The EAR The EAR september 2013 | 21 A U n i q U e & U s e f U l T o o l f o r P r o d U c i n g q UA l i T y c ATT l e

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22 | september 2013 The EAR The EAR september 2013 | 23 All You Ever Needed to Know About Semen Collection By Jeremy Price Integrated Breeders Service

Why Should I Collect Semen on My Bull? breeding season, followed by “cleanup” Topping the list of reasons are genetic insurance, expanding the influence by the bull, can be a cost effective and ef- of the bull’s genetics and proving, testing or sampling sires. Genetic Insur- ficient way to obtain considerably more ance. Injury, illness or any event that might render a bull unable to naturally calves from an individual sire. Proving, service could have a profound effect on the ability to obtain offspring from Sampling or Testing Sires. The logistics that sire. Having frozen semen available on the bull, even in modest quan- involved in developing contemporary tities, can prevent these situations from being a total loss. Expanding the groupings and proving sires can be dif- Influence of the Bull’s Genetics. A bulls servicing ability can vary depending ficult in a total natural service program. upon age, libido and environmental conditions. Average serving capacity Frozen semen can allow for the use of multiple sires’ genetics in small or may allow a bull to produce between 20 and 40 calves per year. A mod- widely scattered cow herds providing for the genetics to be compared in est artificial insemination (A.I.) program can extend the number of calves proper contemporary groups without the need to have multiple sires in the obtained from a single sire to 75 or more. An A.I. program early in the same pastures. These are only a few of the many reasons one might consider for having a frozen semen inventory on an individual bull. Whatever the reason it is rarely as expensive or challenging as often thought.

How Much Semen Should I Collect? The answer to this question is different in almost every case and depends upon factors such as value and age of the sire, size of cow herd, potential for semen sales, how well the bull produces semen, etc. Quantities ranging from 100 straws to 20,000 straws of semen are normal and depend upon the purpose for which the semen is being collected. The average bull is capable of producing between 100 and 500 straws per collection day depending upon his inherent ability and fertility. For example, a typical amount for the pur- poses of obtaining “genetic insurance” might entail the production of some- where between 100 and 500 straws.

When is the Best Time to Collect Semen? Semen quality tends to vary a great deal with environmental conditions, primarily heat stress. In the South, it is not uncommon for semen quality to be severely compromised during the hot summer months. Attempting to collect semen from July through October is the most challenging. While some individual bulls seem to possess a greater ability to resist the negative ef- fects of heat, most are not capable of maintaining a satisfactory level of semen quality during the summer months. Due to the nature of the spermatogenic cycle in the bull, the resumption of normal sperm production is not observed until 60-75 days after the temperature drops below the “stressful” level. For this reason, most semen collection is performed in the fall, winter and spring.

What Does it Cost to Have Semen Collected? Bulls are expensive. Bull maintenance is expensive. A recent Drovers Magazine article, using data from Dr. Les Anderson (University of Kentucky) and Dr. Sandy Johnson (Kansas State University), estimated the cost of a natural service pregnancy to range between $38 and $72, depending upon the purchase price and the cow to bull ratio. In an Artificial Insemination (A.I.) program, using semen that is produced from your genetically valuable sire, the cost of the semen is negligible. The actual cost of producing a straw of semen at any reputable A.I. center or semen collection facility can range between $2 and $5, depending upon how long the bull remains in stud and how efficiently he produces semen.

24 | september 2013 The EAR How Does it Work? producing semen intended for importation into that country. These require- A typical semen collection scenario would include a detailed conversation ments will often include testing in addition to CSS minimum requirements. with the collection facility defining your goals and objectives (i.e. how any For this reason, it is important to establish which countries to which semen straws, purpose for collection, etc.) Once the program for the bull is estab- may be exported, prior to commencing semen collection. lished, semen collection may take as little as one collection day or as long as several months to be accomplished. Why is Semen Quality Important? It is important to understand the quality control measures that are being Depending upon the certification status of the facility that you are using, used by your collection center in order to avoid fertility problems in your some minimum health testing may be required prior to entry (more on this A.I program and improve the odds of succeeding in whatever reproductive later). Semen is collected, usually 2 collection days per week with multiple process that you may be using. Semen quality is composed of several basic ejaculates collected on each day. A straw of semen from each ejaculate is criteria. Sperm cell concentration, post-thaw motility and sperm cell mor- thawed and evaluated to insure that the semen has adequate potential fertil- phology are measures used to attempt to predict the fertility or lack thereof ity. The semen is then ready for distribution or storage for future use. As in an ejaculate. Concentration refers to the number of sperm cells per straw. long as the semen remains frozen it can be stored indefinitely. Post-thaw motility refers to the percentage of sperm cells that are motile and/ or progressively motile in a frozen-thawed semen sample. The morphology What is CSS? component is a measure or percentage of cells that are normal vs. those cells The exportation of semen can be an excellent option for the program that that exhibit observable abnormal characteristics that would impair their abil- produces high quality bulls/genetics. Understanding the process required ity to either fertilize and oocyte or contribute to normal embryonic develop- to prepare a semen inventory for exportation can be challenging. Certified ment. In combination, these characteristics are measured in an attempt to Semen Service (CSS) is a subsidiary of the National Association of Animal predict the potential fertility of an ejaculate. By discarding semen samples Breeders (NAAB) and has established a program for industry self-regulation. that can be deemed “infertile” or sub-fertile, the efficiency of A.I. can be The regulatory process includes guidelines for identification, semen quality improved markedly. control and sire health. As a member of CSS, a semen collection center op- erates under the guidelines to achieve compliance with exporting countries’ Due in large part to the recent advancements in improving estrus syn- requirements that USDA approve the semen collection center. Simply put, chronization, artificial insemination programs are easier to accomplish than the center is approved to produce semen for export and that approval is rec- ever before. The ability preserve and transport semen has also never been ognized by the international community. easier. A good understanding of the details involved can assist in the process of deciding to undertake an A.I. program. Artificial insemination was aptly Bulls collected in accordance with CSS minimum requirements have CSS described by Dr. Steve Blesinger as the “one of the industry’s most under uti- certified semen. The goal of these minimum requirements is to protect the lized tools”. The first step in that process is identifying and obtaining a high health of the herd in which the semen is used. Importing countries typically quality frozen semen product. v publish the requirements for testing to be applied to any bulls which will be

Continued from page 19.

Deadline for Winter Sire Summary Attention BBU members if you want to be included in the next genetic eval- If you have any questions, please contact Collin Osbourn at 210-732-3132 uation process for the Winter 2013 Sire Summary, all data must be submit- or via email a [email protected]. ted to the BBU office on or before Oct. 15, 2013. All data must be recorded in the BBU system by Nov. 1, 2013.

CTBBA Sponsors Convention Rifle Raffle Help support your 2013 BBU convention by entering in a chance to win a of the rifle will be drawn at the 2013 BBU Presidents Council Sale on Sun., Browning 270 X Bolt White Gold Medallion rifle. The rifle comes with a Nov. 2, 2013 in Fort Worth, Texas. You do not have to be present to win. black matte finish, Zeiss 4.5-14X44 scope, sling and an airline approved gun case. The Central Texas Beefmaster Breeders Association (CTBBA) is selling To purchase a chance to win the rifle, contact Gary Frenzel with CTBBA at raffle tickets for the rifle at $20 per ticket or six tickets for $100. The winner 254-721-2214

B.E.E.F. Offers “In Memory” Service to Members The Beefmaster Educational Endowment Foundation (B.E.E.F) is a 501(c)3 would like to donate money to the foundation in honor of a loved one, a not for profit corporation formed in 2009. B.E.E.F. is affiliated with Beef- breeder and/or a BBU member who has passed away. master Breeders United (BBU) which was founded in 1961. The Foundation is dedicated to making a great breed of cattle even better through scientific If you are interested in giving to the foundation and setting up a memo- research, education of the breed’s future leaders and providing valuable infor- rial, please contact B.E.E.F President Davin Vaughn via email at dvdrug- mation to the public about the Beefmaster Breed as superior meat produc- [email protected] or B.E.E.F. Secretary/Treasurer Roger Fuller via email at tion animal. [email protected].

B.E.E.F. provides a memorial donation service to all BBU members who

The EAR september 2013 | 25 26 | september 2013 The EAR The EAR september 2013 | 27 Braford

Exciting Opportunity in the BrafordHeadlines Breed The United Braford Breeders are anticipating our largest Advancing the Bra- Braford/ABEEF bred heifers pro- ford Breed Sale yet this October 3rd , 10am at the Burton Coliseum Com- vided by the Adams Ranch. These plex in Lake Charles, Louisiana. In the third year of our Bull Development heifers are bred and will start calv- and Marketing Program, our breeders are offering 60 head of Braford bulls ing in mid-January through March. With cattle numbers down across the as well as a few F-1 Brafords, and ¼ bloods. The bulls have been on develop- nation, this is the perfect opportunity to replenish your herd. ment for nearly a year at Graham Feedyard in Gonzales, Texas where they have had top of the line treatment from professionals that look after their The UBB would like to inspire you to explore the possibilities of using the every health and nutritional requirements. The bulls are in excellent shape advantages of Braford bulls in your cattle herds. The recent demand for Bra- and are ready to go to work in your herd. ford bulls is on the rise and many producers have a waiting list. We invite you to request a catalog from our partners, American Marketing Service, come to As in the previous years along with the bulls, we will be offering 12 top our sale on October 3rd, and experience the benefits of these Braford cattle quality Braford females. New to this year, we are also be selling 55 head of in your operation.

Brangus

JLS Winning Brangus Tradition ContinuesHeadlines to Grow! JLS International’s X1 Winning Tradition Sale attracted 65 enthusiastic buyers Lot 2 and 2A fetched a bid price and bidders from 6 states. They snapped up the high quality offering of show of $9,200, as Indian Hill Ranch, prospects and performance oriented cattle at a torrid pace. The sale featured Cranfills Gap, TX paid $6,000 to 56 first calf heifers and their calves at side, drawing widespread interest from own the proven donor, Miss JLS Cadence 915S26. One of the few daughter across the country. The show heifer prospects and the range ready Brangus bulls of 915C ever to leave the JLS herd, she is a maternal sister to Tally, and Felic- featured in the sale met with widespread approval and competitive bidding. ity. Diamond K Ranch, Hempstead, TX paid $3,200 to own her long sided Mytime daughter. The high selling lot of the day was Lot 3 and 3A at $19,800. Santa Rosa Ranch, Navasota, TX paid $16,000 to own Miss JLS Mallie, a Revenue daughter with Volume buyers included Wellman Cattle Company, Brenham, TX, L&M balanced EPDs and a 354 day calving interval. This former show heifer was Brangus Ranch, Halletsville, TX and Cornell Saathoff, Hondo,TX. impressive with a world of thickness and depth. Her big topped, fall born, Mytime, heifer calf sold for $3,800 to Dornburg Ranch, Goliad, TX. Choice of 2013 Spring Calves Grossed $10,000 to Average $10,000 1 Donor Grossed $9,200 to Average $9,200 The second high selling lot of the day was lot 17, Mr JLS Presidente 915Y61. 8 Show Heifer Prospects Grossed $46250 to Average $5,781 In a spirited bidding contest, the winning bid price was $17,500, paid by 23 Fall pairs Grosses $118,800 to Average $5,165 Brock Farms, Caledonia, MS. He is sired by many times champion, Skyhawk’s 1 Fall Bred Heifer Presidente and out of the famous JLS donor, Minerva who posts 6 natural Grossed $4,500 to calves @ 103 WR. He is thick made, big boned and moderate in design. average $4,500 33 Spring Pairs Chaney Cattle Company, Windom, TX paid $12,000 to own the third high Grossed $118,600 selling lot. Lot 8, Miss JLS Tally 915Z59. This fancy September show heifer to Average $3,594 prospect was sired by Blackhawk and out of Tally. She is a full sister to Pearl and boasts EPD combinations to match her phenotype with top 10% of the breed 67 Brangus Fe- Milk and top 30% REA and YW. male Lots Grossed $307,350 to Aver- Tied for the fourth high selling lots were Lots 1 and 11, at $10,000. Lot 11, age $4,587 Miss JLS Mytime 915Z66, a fancy November show heifer prospect featured a world of depth of flank and extension up front. She is sired by Mytime, a full 7 Brangus Bulls brother to Mighty Mouse, and was purchased by Eddie Parrott, Mamou, LA. Grossed $50,700 to Lot 1, the choice of all the 2013 spring calves, featured both natural and ET Average $7,243 calves and sold to Rees Saathoff, Hondo, TX. 74 Total Lots The Branch Ranch, Mansfield, LA paid $9,900 to own Lot 14, MR Hondo Grossed $358,050 157Y3. This powerful Odyssey son is out of a first calf heifer who also sold in to average $4,839 the sale, 157W7. He weaned at 835 lbs and is long made and big boned. Continued on page 32 28 | september 2013 The EAR The EAR september 2013 | 29 30 | september 2013 The EAR 100 FEMALES FRIDAY 150 BULLS SATURDAY

Bob and Janice Simpson Palo Pinto, Texas Ranch Manager: Randy Pettijohn 325-642-2609

Buck and Sydney Thomason Cranfills Gap, Texas Email: [email protected] www.indianhillsbrangus.com 254-597-7140

OFFSPRING AND SERVICE OF THESE Scotty and Sherry Henderson SIRES SELL! Bossier City, Louisiana 318-208-0069 [email protected] 101 RANGER 99W11

1818 Arabela Road Arabela, NM 88351 Ray Westall 575-361-2070 Tate Pruett, Ranch Manager, 575-365-6356 Cheramie Viator, Marketing (979) 777-9419 [email protected] IH BAR NONE 820Y8 BRINKS ARABELA 1038 NOVEMBER 15TH & 16TH 100 FEMALES SELL FRIDAY EVENING

Richard Hood | 979-224-6150 150 BULLS SELL SATURDAY AT 10AM Trey Kirkpatrick | 979-324-5518 Brad Wright | 979-219-4599 AT THE RANCH, PALO PINTO, TX Mark Cowan | 903-495-4522 www.amscattle.com The EAR september 2013 | 31 Continued from page 28. Steiner Ranch Sells Cattle Herd to Santa Rosa Ranch bastrop, tx (July 15, 2013) - After a century in the cattle business and over time. This is a great opportunity for our program.” over 40 years of producing top purebred Brangus cattle, XS Steiner Ranch Brangus has dispersed their entire cattle herd to Santa Rosa Ranch. Over Santa Rosa Ranch was founded by the Gerald and Susanne Sullivan Family 1,000 head of females will be relocated to Santa Rosa Ranch along the Trinity and has locations in Grimes and Houston Counties. Under the guidance River in Houston County and will complement the growing herd of purebred of GM Kent Smith and Manager Scott Broadus, Brangus and Ultrablack Brangus and Ultrablack cattle that have been developed in their program. seedstock are developed from the genetic foundation of Brinks Brangus, Gar- diner Angus and V8 Brahman cattle. Recently, the program expanded to the “This is a bittersweet time for our operation.” commented Bobby Steiner of historic Rattlesnake Ranch/7J Stock Farm in Houston County, offering ex- XS Steiner Ranch. “But I am gratified that this premium cow herd, coupled pansion opportunities for their current purebred and commercial operation with the already strong Santa Rosa Brangus operation, will definitely ensure as well as bull development, replacement female and weaned calf programs. Brangus bull and replacement female buyers with an unequaled opportunity For more information about Santa Rosa Ranch, log on to www.srrtexas.com to have access to the most premier Brangus cattle anywhere. I congratulate or call 936.624.2333. Gerald Sullivan, his daughter Kelley and their family as well as General Man- Pictured L-R: Kent Smith, ager Kent Smith of Santa Rosa Ranch because I know they offer an outstand- Kelley Sullivan, Gerald Sullivan ing program for this herd to join.” with Santa Rosa Ranch and Bobby and Joleen Steiner, J.R. Briant, Tony Gonzales and Joe “We are proud to incorporate this stellar herd of cattle into our operation.” Gonzales with Steiner Ranch. adds Kent Smith, General Manager of Santa Rosa Ranch. “One would be hard-pressed to find a set of cattle with this reputation for quality and pro- ductivity than what Bobby and his family at Steiner Ranch have developed

Two Brands One Vision Doguet’s Diamond D Ranch with locations in Poteet, McCoy and Ultrablack herd in the nation. It began 17 years ago as a data driven beef Beaumont, Texas and Crochet Cattle Company Lafayette, Louisiana an- cow herd and in its current form writes some of the highest IMF EPDs nounced the formation of a new Brangus partnership. in the Brangus Industry. The herd is 3rd and 4th generation Ultrablack (50% Brangus and 50% Angus) for added consistency and has been se- Doguet’s Diamond D, long known for big performing cattle that are lected for fertility, milk, udder quality and real world performance on dominant in the showring and the pasture, was the 2011 Brangus Breeder grass in the hot and humid conditions of south Louisiana. of the Year. Doguet’s exhibited the 2012 International Grand Champion bull, DDD Uppercuts Legacy 804X37 and the 2013 International Grand The two programs will operate as one unit with one vision. They will Champion Female and 2012 Show Heifer of the Year--DDD MS Barbara combine the strengths of their programs while maintaining the individu- 804Y61. The 2013 Futurity Grand Champion female, CMR MS Lanie ality of their breeding operations and their brands. They will multiply the 488Z, was sired by DDD Black Gold 804S25 and out of a female, 488X, elite genetics present in both herds while capturing and infusing those purchased in the Doguet’s 2010 Sale. The 2013 National Junior Heifer genetics in both. Their vision is clear, to produce the most powerful, Show Grand Champion, DDD MS Chariti 88Z10 was purchased in the proven and consistent Brangus and Ultrablack cattle available in the beef 2012 Doguet sale by the Johnston’s. Doguet’s Hercules has been awarded cattle industry, and to grow their market share and numbers to meet that the Show Sire of the Year for the second time siring many winning off demand. spring. They also continue to focus on bulls for South Texas Ranchers Doguet’s Diamond D production sale is scheduled for Saturday October selling 72 bulls in last fall’s sale for an average of $3,955. 19th. They will sell 100 Brangus and Ultrablack bulls and 60 registered Brangus and Ultrablack females. The Crochet Cattle Company herd is the oldest continuously operated

Brangus Enthusiast Gather at Johnston Farms Over 200 commercial and registered Brangus breeders and interested cattle- Blackwater Brangus, a registered Brangus operation in Fair Point, Georgia, men from eight states gathered at Johnston Farms, Letohatchee, Alabama and Scott Garrett, sale barn owner and procurement agent for Cargill from August 9th and 10th. They participated in an evening of socializing and fel- Letohatchee, Alabama. Each participant shared insights from their area of lowship and a morning of great Brangus cattle and an enlightened program expertise within the beef cattle industry. Their presentations were followed “Driving Profits and Increased Value to the Producer”. The field day was by an in depth question and answer period. sponsored by the Southeastern Brangus Breeders Association. Field day sponsors in addition to the South Eastern Brangus Breeders Asso- Ray and Helen Johnston were field day hosts and extended their hospitality ciation, were Zoetis, Purina, American Marketing Services, Silveus Insurance to the gathered crowd. The Saturday morning program included a parade of Group, Monroe Sausage, Ag Credit Services, Integrated Breeders Service, display cattle including herd sires Estancia, Texas Star, Coronado and Guard- Capital Equipment and the Alabama Brangus Breeders Association. ian and their daughters as well as daughters of AI sires Landau, Hombre and Cochise. Commercial Brangus heifers from Wat Johnston, sired by and safe to, Genetrust bulls were also displayed. Craig Green and Vern Suhn provided commentary and answered questions concerning the display cattle.

A panel discussion followed moderated by Robert Wiltsie, Purina Feeds, Ala- bama. The panel consisted of Mark Sabranek, feed yard manager for Irsik and Doll, Garden City, Kansas, Jimmy Acker, Bent A Farms, a commercial Brangus operation in Greensboro, Alabama, Andrew Connally, manager Ray Johnston welcomes the SEBBA Field Day crowd. 32 | september 2013 The EAR Brangus Members Awarded Herdsman of the Year san antonio, tx - Each year the International Brangus Breeders As- and is a true ambassador for the Brangus breed. sociation (IBBA) presents the Herdsman of the Year award to a Brangus and a Red Brangus exhibitor. This award recognizes the exhibitor’s efforts over Heidi Poppe of Cox Excalibur Brangus in Katy, Texas, was the Red Brangus the past year in showcasing and exhibiting Brangus and Red Brangus cattle. Herdsman of the Year. Poppe and the Cox team continually bring a large string of Red Brangus cattle to every IBBA national show and had great suc- Two factors go into the calculations for awarding the Herdsman of the Year cess during the 2012-2013 show season. Award: a participation score and a vote score. For the participation score, points are calculated from the exhibitor’s participation in IBBA’s four na- For more information about Brangus and the IBBA, visit GoBrangus.com. tional and four regional shows. Exhibitors must participate in at least two IBBA national shows to be eligible for the award. For the vote score, exhibitors who have attended at least two IBBA national shows are allowed to vote in Houston for who they think is most deserving of the award. Factors they are asked to consider include cattle and stall presentation, barn citizenship and ambassadorship of the Brangus breed. It is truly an honor to win IBBA’s Herdsman of the Year Award and the 2012 winners are: 2013 IBBA Brangus Herdsman of the 2013 IBBA Red Brangus Herdsman of Timmy Lucherk of Doguet’s Diamond D in McCoy, Texas, was the Brangus Year - Timmy Lucherk of Doguet’s Dia- the Year - Heidi Poppe of Cox Excalibur Herdsman of the Year. Lucherk hauled cattle to every IBBA national show mond D Ranch in McCoy, TX Brangus in Katy, TX for the 2012-2013 show season. He claimed numerous honors in the ring

Dean Receives Honorable Georganne Myers Award san antonio, tx - Tyler Dean from Maysville, Okla., was presented We just wanted to make sure he knew how much the breed, juniors and the Georganne Myers National Supporter of the Year Award for his faithful parents all appreciated his commitment and dedication.” commitment and dedication to the International Junior Brangus Breeders Association (IJBBA). Dean and his wife, Jessica, were presented the award This award, given in memory of Georganne Myers, is a representation of the by Randy Deshotel at the IJBBA banquet Friday, July 19, 2013, hosted in passion and devotion that is still very evident in the people involved in the conjunction with the National Junior Brangus Show (NJBS) in West Mon- Brangus breed. She raised two daughters who both were actively involved in roe, La. the Brangus breed, Rachel Myers Childs and Britne Myers. Georganne lived in Liberty, Texas, and passed away after being diagnosed with brain cancer. “I was lucky enough to be getting started with the IJBBA while the Myers family was involved, so I know firsthand the kind of person Georganne My- “She was outgoing, and when she met someone she made them feel wel- ers was, which makes this awards extra special,” said Dean who serves as the come,” Mary Douglass said of Georganne. “She was always a happy person Shows and Junior Coordinator for the IBBA. “When looking back over the and just someone you enjoyed being around. She was the kind of person that list of past recipients of this award, it reads as a “who’s-who” of the mentors I you made you feel like a better person just after being around her.” was lucky enough to work with during my tenure on the IJBBA Board. I feel the group of past winners are iconic figures in the Junior Association, and I “Georganne was a Texas Junior Advisor and accomplished a lot for the IJB- absolutely could not be more honored by this award and what it means to BA,” Pritchard said. “She organized events, helped with fundraising, and she me.” was always upbeat, positive and enthusiastic about the future of the junior program.” A deserving leader is selected annually by a committee based on the tremendous support shown for the junior members involved in the Brangus breed Just a few past recipients of the award include Joe Dillard of Katy, Texas; RC and contributions made to ensure the success of the IJBBA. Smith of Oden, Ark.; Randy Deshotel of Ville Platte, La.; Mary Douglass of Seguin, Texas; and Steve Densmore of Bryan, Texas. “Even after the loss of his father the week prior to this year’s NJBS and facing (L-R): IBBA Queen Emily Jackson, other adversities, Tyler didn’t skip a beat. He was still very dedicated to the Tyler and Jessica Dean, inaugu- juniors and stayed committed to his obligations,” said Ginger Pritchard, a Ju- ral winner and award presenter nior Board Advisor and strong supporter of the IJBBA. “Tyler observed many Randy Deshotell dedicated Brangus breeders as a young man. He grew up raising and exhibiting Brangus cattle and fulfilled many leadership roles as a junior member. Tyler emulates the leadership that these breeders modeled. The apple doesn’t fall far from the tree when it comes to Tyler. He has taken that dedication a step further, and we, as a committee, wanted him to be recognized for his commitment to the IJBBA not only for what he has done in the past, but for what he is doing in the present to ensure the success of the junior program. Continued on page 36

The EAR september 2013 | 33 34 | september 2013 The EAR The EAR september 2013 | 35 Continued from page 33. International Junior Brangus Leadership Announced for 2013-2014 san antonio, tx - The International Junior Brangus Board of Direc- 2013-14 Director, Tanner Bosarge, Evergreen, Alabama tors for 2013-2014 was announced at the conclusion of the National Junior 2013-14 Director, Ali Congdon, Repton, Alabama Brangus Show Banquet on Friday, July 19, 2013. 2013-14 Director, Allyson Polston, Lakeland, Florida 2013-14 Director, Racheal Sharp, Konawa, Oklahoma Director candidates must submit a lengthy written application, essay and let- 2013-15 Director, Quinn Carter, Haines City, Florida ter of references before arriving at the National Junior Brangus Show (NJBS). 2013-15 Director, Colby Davis, Tahlequah, Oklahoma Once they arrive to NJBS, each candidate is interviewed by a Selection Com- 2013-15 Director, Meghan Pickett, Robeline, Louisiana mittee consisting of the IJBBA Executive Committee as well as the IJBBA 2013-15 Director, McKenzie Posey, Wayne, Oklahoma Advisory Committee. But, the week does not get easier after their interview (L-R): Meghan Pickett, Tanner as candidates’ leadership qualities and work ethics are evaluated by the Se- Bosarge, Quinn Carter, Colby Da- lection Committee during the entire week of NJBS. All the hard work and vis, Kacie Wallace, Racheal Sharp, Kelsey Munoz, McKenzie Posey, Ali time devoted to applying for the IJBBA Board of Directors culminates at Congdon, Alyston Polston, Kourt- the banquet where the new Directors are announced. The IJBBA Board of ney Gardner Directors is responsible for overseeing and managing the entire IJBBA as well as coordinating and hosting the annual National Junior Brangus Show. The 2013-2014 IJBBA Board of Directors consists of: President, Kacie Wallace, Bryan, Texas Ex-Officio, Kelsey Munoz, Pearland, Texas IBBA Queen, Kourtney Gardner, China Spring, Texas

Junior Brangus Member Receives Sullivan Supply Scholarship san antonio, tx - Emily Jackson of Waco, Texas, is the recipient of a $1,000 scholarship from the Sullivan Supply’s Youth Scholarship Program. “Emily is an absolute standout in this contemporary group,” said representatives from Sullivan “The Distinguished Sullivan Supply Youth Scholarship program has ener- Supply. “She is a tremendously talented young gized our confidence in the quality of young people ready to take the reins lady with a high-level of ambition. Being a part as leaders in their field,” said John and Dede Sullivan, Dan Sullivan and the of the high school state champion 4-H livestock entire staff and dealers. “A special thank you to the scholarship selection com- judging team, Emily is now highly successful on mittee of industry leaders (non-Sullivan Supply employees or family mem- the college level, while maintaining a 3.9+ GPA.” bers) who volunteered three days of their time for this project. After 22 years of living and loving the industry, we are more excited to see what the future Jackson is attending Texas Tech University in will bring with our youth at the helm.” Lubbock, Texas, where she is double majoring in animal science and political science. She is also a member of the Champion- The selection committee chose 20 exemplary recipients from more than ship Livestock Judging Team. Jackson has been very involved in the Inter- 1,100 applicants from 45 states and Canada. High school senior and college national Junior Brangus Breeders Association (IJBBA) having served on the students under 21 were eligible to apply. IJBBA Board of Directors as well as a past International Brangus Queen

Red Brangus

Don Jobes Presented Lifetime AchievementHeadlines Award college station, tx - On Saturday, April 27, the International Red Brangus Breeders honored Don Jobes of J7 Ranch with the IRBBA Lifetime Achievement Award. He is the second recipient of this award in IRBBA history.

Jobes worked as Assistant General Manager of the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo for 31 years until his retirement in 1998.

He began the J7 brand and started ranching in 1955. In 2004, Jobes added Red Brangus genetics to his cattle herd and has produced both show and commercial Red Brangus cattle ever since. His ranch is located five miles south of East Bernard, TX. (L-R): Allen Goode of Dallas, TX; President Marcos Borges of Wharton, TX; Don Jobes of East The IRBBA Board of Directors and members feel that Mr. Jobes is strongly Bernard, TX; Don Cox of Katy, TX; John Liechty of Houston, TX; Adolpus Gordon of Arcola, TX; Greg deserving of the Lifetime Achievement Award. Munoz of Pearland, TX; Gary Markham of Manvel, TX; Bruce Buffaloe of Friendswood, TX. Continued on page 38 36 | september 2013 The EAR The EAR september 2013 | 37 Continued from page 36. 2013 Scholarship Recipients college station, tx - Eight scholarships were awarded to Brangus juniors in conjunction with the IRBBA Annual Meeting in College Station,TX April 26-27. The scholarship is part of the IRBBA’s “Foundation for the Fu- ture” campaign, which was established in 2012 to maintain fundraising for the purpose of aiding Brangus youth as they seek higher education. (Front Row L-R): Allie Acorrd, Jessica Moreno, Marcos Ortiz II, Katharine Carter, Kelsey Munoz, Morgan Maxwell (Back Row L-R): Members of the IRBBA Memorial Scholarship Committee Allen Goode, Lissa Buf- faloe, Kay Gibson, Veronica Munoz and IRBBA President Marcos Borges

Divas in Red Sale and Futurity Winners college station, tx - The Fifth Edition of The “Divas in Red” Pre- ham., Texas for $3,500. The High Volume Buyers were three breeders with mier Red Brangus Heifer Sale offered Red Brangus enthusiasts a high quality two selections each, IBBA junior breeder Derek Johnston of Waxahachie, set of young Red Brangus females. The High Selling was Lot 12 from J7 Texas; JLS International of Robertsdale, Alabama; and Cox Excalibur of Ranch and Mr. Don Jobes. Earlier in the afternoon J7 Ms Terissa 272Z was Katy, Texas. selected as the Reserve Grand Champion of The “Divas in Red” Futurity. She was purchased by IBBA junior breeder Claire Smart of Runge, Texas for In total, the sale grossed $48,200 for an average of $2,835. Sale Chairman $4,000. Allen Goode wholeheartedly thanked the consignors for digging deep in their keeper pens to offer the new and established breeders in attendance an The Second High Selling Lot notation was a classy young female from Mc- exciting group of females. Donald Ranches and Triple JR Cattle Co., MISS TJ-MR 575A. JLS Interna- tional, Robertsdale, Alabama was the final bidder at $3,700. The IRBBA Board of Directors established The “Divas in Red” sale as a showcase of the finest young Red Brangus females. The “Divas” continues to grow The Grand Champion Female of The “Divas in Red” Futurity, GM MS Mer- as a source of genetics for new and establish breeders on both sides of the lot 22P/Z from Markham Cattle Co., went to Wellman Cattle Co. of Bren- border, as well junior exhibitors across the region and Brangus breed.

Santa Gertrudis

Purebred Registrations Continue to TrendHeadlines Upward Diana Ruiz, Santa Gertrudis Breeders International Registration Specialist, increase in purebred registrations has reported a 20% increase in purebred registrations for the first quarter indicates that the demand for of the 2013 fiscal year as compared to the same time period last year. 746 Santa Gertrudis genetics is on the animals were registered during the months of April, May, and June in 2013 increase and cattlemen nationwide recognize the value of the breed’s genetic as compared to 610 for the same 3 month period during 2012. This 20% package.

Santa Gertrudis Youth Foundation Recognizes Scholarship Recipients Scholarships totaling $35,000 were awarded to 11 graduating senior mem- sissippi, Britney Shields, Sarcoxie, Missouri, Clarissa Maldonado, Edinburg, bers of the National Junior Santa Gertrudis Association at the conclusion of Texas, Lesmar Catu, McAllen, Texas, Megan Hartin, Athens, Texas, Michael the 2013 National Junior Santa Gertrudis Heifer Show held in San Marcos, McConaughey, Texarkana, Texas, Thomas Boyle, Mission, Texas, Tiffany van Texas earlier this summer. Recognized for their outstanding achievement Zile, Texarkana, Texas, Mary Faila, East Bernard, Texas, and Ashley McDow- were: Lauryn Hefte, Corpus Christi, Texas, Claylee Chism, Pontotoc, Mis- ell, Zachary, Louisiana.

Taliaferro Recognized Long-time Santa Gertrudis breeder and junior supporter Wylie Taliaferro tion devoted to providing scholarships for deserving young people. Wylie was recognized for his leadership and dedication to the National Junior Santa and his wife B.J. continue to support the mission of the youth foundation Gertrudis Association at the conclusion of the 2013 National Junior Heifer and provide a scholarship to a graduating senior each year. Taliaferro’s impact Show. Taliaferro was instrumental in organizing the first national event and on the breed’s junior program will touch the lives of young people for years has remained an active supporter since the show’s inception. He was also the to come. first donor to the National Santa Gertrudis Youth Foundation an organiza-

38 | september 2013 The EAR The EAR september 2013 | 39 Simbrah

Tracking Simbrah Carcass Data Headlines The progeny of six Simbrah bulls have been weighed, tested and mea- test. The results were favorable sured at every stage of production – with special emphasis in the carcass for Simbrah sired calves, when data, in an effort to prove their genetics are as good as believed. The comparing the numbers against calves from these sires, were weaned from the test herd at University of the Simmental and SimAngus calves. Illinois Experiment Station as part of the long-running American Sim- mental Association’s Carcass Merit Program (CMP) and now they have Additional testing of Simbrah sired calves is in the future through the been harvested. CMP program and updates will be provided as the Simbrah breed tracks carcass data. The CMP program, started in 1996, is the longest-running, structured sire evaluation program in the cattle industry. The program has ex- “The ASA Board has been supportive of getting Simbrah carcass infor- panded over the years to included about 500 sires, cooperator herds in mation and this combined with 50K enhanced genetic data and ASA’s 16 states, 35,000 matings and more than 5,000 carcass records. Other Total Herd Enrollment (THE) program will allow the Simbrah breed to breeds have been included in the CMP and the data has contributed to continue to improve the accuracies and revelance of our EPDs for car- several breed association databases. cass and all traits. Simbrah breeders are continuing to encourage ASA to provide these test herd programs, so that the breed can gain additional The six bulls sired 27 steer calves and 26 heifer calves in this particular data,” explained Tim Smith, Simbrah Breeders Group president. Industry News Blackhawk Arrowleaf Clover Released by Texas A&M AgriLife Research overton - Texas A&M AgriLife Research recently released Black- root diseases, effectively put a stop to the practice by the late 1980s and hawk, a new arrowleaf clover promising high forage production with early 1990s, Smith said. Of the diseases, bean yellow mosaic virus was improved disease resistance. one of the most prevalent and damaging problems. The virus didn’t af- fect crimson clover, but either killed or stunted arrowleaf clover. Dr. Gerald Smith, Texas A&M AgriLife Research forage breeder, said he developed Blackhawk from lines with natural resistance to the fun- It was in response to this problem that Smith developed and released gal soil pathogen Pythium ultimum and for tolerance to bean yellow Apache arrowleaf clover in 2001. Apache became one of the most wide- mosaic virus. ly used arrowleaf clovers in the U.S. South, according to Smith. Developed at the Texas A&M AgriLife Research and Extension Center In terms of tonnage of forage produced per acre, Blackhawk and Apache at Overton, Blackhawk traces its lineage back to dark-seeded lines from are very similar, Smith said. However, in addition to having natural 1984 field selections of arrowleaf cultivars Yuchi, Amclo and Meechee, resistance to soil pathogens that attack seedlings, Blackhawk has the ad- Smith said. ditional advantage of going dormant about a week earlier than Apache. This means Blackhawk is less likely to compete with warm-season for- Soil pathogens such as Pythium ultimum kill or damage germinating ages like Coastal or Tifton 85 Bermuda grass. seed and emerging arrowleaf clover seedlings, Smith said. Both Apache and Yuchi arrowleaf clover are susceptible to this seedling disease, and Despite the similarities, the histories of developing Blackhawk and in laboratory trials, inoculation with the disease resulted in 100 and 73 Apache are “quite different,” he said. percent dead or severely diseased seedlings, respectively. “On Apache, we started with a really broad germplasm base, and we selected for a number of generations for resistance to bean yellow mosaic “In contrast, Blackhawk is resistant to this disease, and only 33 percent virus,” Smith said. “We stopped at that, and released Apache, and it’s of the seedlings showed any sign of damage due to fungal disease,” he been a great variety for us, and continues to be a great variety. said. “With Blackhawk, we started at a different place. We used a large germ- Smith is known nationally for the development of Apache arrowleaf clo- plasm collection, but we selected initially for resistance to fungal seed- ver, which he released in 2001, according to Dr. Charles Long, resident ling diseases. We want to get that fixed first, and then after we had director of research at the Overton center. resistance to those diseases, we selected for resistance to bean yellow mosaic virus. So essentially, Blackhawk has multiple disease resistance.” Clover can be an important part of forage production – and by association, beef production – in the southern U.S., Smith said. Arrowleaf clo- Blackhawk seed is black, hence its name, Smith said. Curiously, Black- ver has long shown good production potential. If planted or overseeded hawk’s resistance to seedling diseases is linked to seed pigmentation. into warm-season pastures in the fall, it promises grazing for cattle in early spring when warm-season grasses are dormant. This correlation between dark-pigmentation and fungal disease resistance in legumes has long been known, he said. As early as the 1960s, from East Texas to Georgia, it was common practice to mix arrowleaf seed with crimson clover seed, according to Smith. “Dark-seeded genotypes show increased tolerance to fungi such as By mixing the early- maturing crimson clover and late-maturing ar- Pythium ultimum and P. irregulare, when compared to light colored rowleaf, ranchers and farmers could have forage from February through seeds,” Smith said. “The protective pigments are anthocyanins, which early June. are also found throughout plants in flowers, leaves, seed, etc.” ~AgriLifeTODAY However, multiple disease problems, including plant viruses and fungal Continued on page 42

40 | september 2013 The EAR The EAR september 2013 | 41 Continued from page 40. Beef Industry About to Make a Slow Turn The beef industry is about to reverse a downward trend in numbers, but expansion is ex- be required as well. That process is also underway. Oklahoma 500 to 550 pound calves have pected to start slowly. The number of beef animals has been in a downward spiral since 2007 increased by about $0.15 per pound since early June and 600 to 650 pounds steer calves by due to drought which has ravaged pastures and due to high prices of corn, soybean meal, $0.13. Current prices are $1.65 and $1.55 per pound, respectively. However, these levels and forages. Now, prospects are brightening for a renewal of pastures and for a welcomed are not likely to stimulate any major beef cow herd expansion. It is more likely that prices reduction in feed prices. of $1.75 to $2.00 may be required to convince brood cow operations to move aggressively toward more cows. Pastures and ranges have returned to favorable conditions for much of the country including the Northeast, the Southeast, Midwest, and the Northern Great Plains. Improvement is also The already low inventory of finished cattle and some added heifer retention will keep beef noted for the Central and Southern Plains, although drought conditions are still lingering. supplies falling in the coming 12 months. USDA expects beef production to be down about Texas, Oklahoma, and Kansas have received some recent rains which may help to continue four percent in the last-half of 2013 and by five percent in the first-half of 2014. This should the abatement of drought. Nationally, 73 percent of pastures are rated in the fair, good, or provide the foundation for finished beef prices to average in the higher $120s to low $130s. excellent condition this year compared with only 46 percent at this time last year. These finished cattle prices, along with lower feed prices, should propel calf prices back to $1.75 per pound and higher. Markets are currently expecting feed prices to drop sharply when new crop harvest gets underway. New crop corn prices are about $2 per bushel lower than nearby bids and fall soy- Finished cattle prices are expected to trade in the low $120s per hundredweight in the third bean meal prices could be as much as $200 per ton lower than current scarce old crop offers. quarter, but move to the higher $120s for the final quarter of 2013. First-half 2014 prices are expected to average near $130, with early spring highs in the low-to-mid $130s. Calf and Beef cow operations in some parts of the country where pastures have been restored are feeder cattle prices should follow the finished cattle prices higher, especially as feed prices probably getting ready to retain heifers. Beef cow numbers have declined in the Southeast also drop. by about 700,000 head, or 12 percent, since 2007. Midwest numbers have dropped by 680,000 head, or 14 percent, since 2007. Both of these areas should have the pasture and The industry may see the start of heifer retention this fall, but the magnitude of expansion the feed to begin heifer retention. The Northern Plains is another area that is ripe for herd is expected to be low and slow to get underway. Beef cow producers know that expansion of expansion. the herd is a long-term investment, and generally want a more extended period of favorable returns before making major financial commitments. In addition, nearly one-half of the On the other hand, pasture and range recovery has not yet reached a critical mass for expan- country’s cows are in regions that have not yet fully emerged from the drought. sion in the Central and Southern Plains and Western U.S. These regions include 43 percent of the beef cows and have had a 14 percent drop in those numbers since 2007. More rain Prices of calves may need to move closer to $2 per pound to provide the incentive that will and more improvement in pastures and ranges will be required. provide for a more major beef expansion. Both the poultry and pork industries are set to increase production rapidly as feed prices decline. Retail beef prices, already at record highs, So, the initial retention of heifers will likely occur this fall in areas primarily east of the Mis- will move even higher in the coming 12 months at a time when poultry and pork prices sissippi River, plus the Delta, the Western Corn Belt, and the Northern Great Plains. This is increases are moderating or even falling. This will mean stiff competition for beef among a large area that currently has 57 percent of the nation’s beef cows. domestic and foreign consumers. ~farmdocDAILY Lower feed prices alone will not be enough to get retention started, but higher calf prices will

Merck Plans Five-Step Review Process for Zilmax Additive Just days after beef processor Tyson announced the company would no longer accept animals fed the beta-agonist feed additive Zilmax, the product’s manufacturer, Merck Animal 3. Reinforce appropriate management practices for feeder customers to include overall nutri- Health, Tuesday released a plan to review and re-certify farms using the supplement to ensure tion and feeding objectives, animal handling, low-stress environments and transportation, its safety. based on audit findings; The product causes cattle to put on more muscle and less fat late in the feeding period. 4. Form the Merck Animal Health Advisory Board within the next 30 days, made up of representatives from small, medium and large feeders, packers, cow-calf operators, as well as “Worldwide regulatory agencies have reviewed extensive data on Zilmax and have concluded animal health and nutrition experts, to review available data; and that use of Zilmax, according to the label, is safe in cattle,” a Merck statement said. 5. Share findings and remain transparent about the review and audit process. Though Merck said that studies from University experts indicate that behavior and move- ment of cattle fed Zilmax is normal, riginal reports from Tyson indicated that the product The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association stood by Merck’s claim that that the product is was causing mobility issues, thus resulting in a call to end its use. The company listed a Sept. safe, noting that, “there is no scientific basis for saying the use of beta-agonists caused the 6, 2013, date to end purchases of Zilmax-fed cattle. animal welfare concerns cited by Tyson in their decision to stop buying cattle fed Zilmax. “ In response to the deadline, Merck introduced a five-step approach to audit and recertify However, the group said it will also undertake a review of current scientific studies and real- handlers and users of the product. Specifically, Merck said it will: life observations to supplement the work of Merck and explore any possible correlation between the use of beta-agonists and reported animal welfare issues. 1. Re-certify every feeder/nutritionist/veterinarian that feeds Zilmax to cattle immediately. Special attention will be given to feed mixing and determining which cattle are good candi- “Our goal is to fully understand how the use of these products impacts animal welfare in real- dates for the use of beta-agonists; life conditions. If this process determines the current use of beta-agonists is compromising animal welfare, we will take appropriate action to ensure that every animal raised for food 2. Reach out to packers and suppliers to initiate a scientific audit, which will focus on the receives the proper care it deserves,” NCBA said. feeding of Zilmax, and will follow those cattle from the feedyard to the packing plant to determine potential causes of lameness and other mobility issues during feeding, transporta- Tyson competitors Cargill and National Beef both have no plans to change suppliers’ man- tion, offloading and staging at the processing facility. Merck will do a thorough review of dated production practices in regards to similar supplements. potential compounding factors—such as nutrition, transportation, receiving facilities, etc., ~Beef Producer with the participation of third-party experts in the next 30 days;

COOL Advocates Ask to Intervene in Labeling Lawsuit The National Farmers Union Friday announced that it intends to intervene in the lawsuit filed July 10 against the USDA seeking to nullify the USDA’s May 23 final rule regarding Specifically, they alleged that the COOL rule: 1) violates the United States Constitution by Country of Origin Labeling. compelling speech in the form of detailed labeling on meat products that do not directly advance a government interest; 2) exceeds the scope of the statutory mandate, because the If granted an intervention, NFU, along with partnering organizations – U.S. Cattlemen’s statute does not permit the kind of labeling requirements the final rule puts in place; and 3) Association, Consumer Federation of America and American Sheep Industry Association – imposes burdens on the meat industry with little to no benefit. intend to defend the COOL regulation, which requires muscle cuts to be labeled based on where the animal was born, raised and slaughtered. Parties involved in the original lawsuit include the American Meat Institute, the American Association of Meat Processors, American Meat Institute, Canadian Cattlemen’s Association, Nine groups filed the original lawsuit, arguing that COOL violates World Trade Organiza- Canadian Pork Council, National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, National Pork Producers tion obligations by creating consumer bias against imported goods. Council, North American Meat Association, and Southwest Meat Association. Continued on page 45 42 | september 2013 The EAR The EAR september 2013 | 43 44 | september 2013 The EAR Over 7000 cattlemen & cattlewomen read The EAR each month, & the list is growing!

Continued from page 42. The group also filed for a temporary injunction on July 26, arguing that enforcement of the favored requiring food sellers to indicate on the package label the country of origin of fresh rule would cause irreparable harm to the industry and have severe economic impacts that are meat they sell. not in the public interest. “There is no denying that U.S. consumers want to know where their food comes from,” said While the groups are concerned about potential trade disruptions and added processing NFU President Roger Johnson. “That is why it is great to have a united front of consumers costs, NFU and its partnering organizations, however, maintain that COOL is a benefit to and producers in this alliance in support of COOL.” U.S. farmers and consumers. The Court has scheduled a hearing on the preliminary injunction motion for Aug. 27 They point to a Consumer Federation of America study that found 90% of adult Americans ~Beef Producer Continued on page 46

The EAR september 2013 | 45 Continued from page 45. Cure the Planned-Grazing Fescue Blues R.P. Cooke says in the southern part of the fescue belt the better you manage grazing the 2. Monitor roadsides and manage your pastures to try to reproduce what grows there. tougher it gets ... at least for a while. 3. Provide forage complete recovery after grazing to increase diversity. The more species the The Sparta, Tennessee, grazier says the benefits that accrue from good grazing management better: grasses, legumes, herbs and forbs. and full recovery of grass before re-grazing also bring with them a new set of problems. Perhaps it’s what one might expect, considering the good-grass/bad-grass nature of fescue. 4. For shade, grow protected small and deep groves of trees. One-wire electric fences will protect these from overuse and trampling when they’re not needed. Consider for example, the extension of the grazing season and decrease in dormant season which all good graziers experience. With fescue it means your cattle will ingest the endo- 5. Plan grazing that delivers high animal impact for short periods in the spring. Make a little phyte’s toxins many more months per year, without a break. Obviously a problem. mud. This sets back the fescue and gives other plants a chance. Add to that the high ambient temperatures and high humidity of the southern climes and 6. In high rainfall areas above 35 inches annual average, soil health, plant health and animal you’ve got more months of fescue toxicity problem. health require regular small applications of lime. Eliminate the summer “drought” season continuous grazers experience every year, replace it 7. Supplement cattle with a rumen microbe stimulant, energy, calcium, phosphorus, mag- with higher soil organic moisture, denser, more lush green fescue, and you’ve got even more nesium, lots of loose salt, and trace minerals. Clean water is a necessity. fescue toxicosis, Cooke says. 8. Eliminate chemical nitrogen if your fescue is dominating your pasture and “blowing up” Over the years he has brought his soil organic matter up from 1% or so to about 5% and he in the spring. grows grass -- fescue at least -- pretty much 12 months of the year. Cooke says he has been “hay free” for 10 years now and he grazes cattle the year long. 9. Consider “overgrazing” areas of heavy fescue growth in early-spring by allowing cattle a longer grazing period or a second grazing period. Do so before the warm-season plants you Next, add to the list of problems from the fact fescue is a cool-season forage and often out of want begin to emerge. balance in protein (nitrogen) to the amount of energy, says the retired veterinarian. This puts excess nitrogen in the bloodstream of the cattle, which acts as a mild nitrate poisoning and 10. Learn to plan, manage, and graze for an increase of the perennial tall warm-season (C4) produces many of the same symptoms as fescue toxicosis. grasses that grow in your area. “High-protein, low-energy grasses lead to high ammonia formation in the rumen,” Cooke 11. Mow the fescue dominant areas for hay every third year. “I always lose money when says. “The ammonia is absorbed and leads to a high pH in the animal, or alkalosis.” we mow hay but it does set the fescue back,” Cooke says. It also decreases soil health and development. Dilution solution: Tennessee grazier R.P. Cooke says big fescue is fine if you can beat it back to 35% or 50% of your grass stand in favor of warm-season grasses. 12. Consider applying four to six ounces per acre application of paraquat in the late March, April, or early May on very dense areas to send the fescue dormant. Paraquat is dangerous However, there are solutions and a way forward, he says. but short-lived and seems to hurt fescue and other C3 grasses worse than it does other plants. Cooke has actually written his methods into a series of articles about his 30 years improving 13. Do not bet the farm on novel endophyte fescue varieties. his land with grazing and dealing with the fescue issues as the evolve. He calls it the “High- way 40 Blues” and says these southern fescue problems persist along a corridor which runs 14. Get adapted cattle genetics. Sell cows that cannot perform in your environment. Do a up to 100 miles either side of Interstate 40 from eastern Oklahoma to the Atlantic Ocean. lot of looking before purchasing. Get out of the truck and look at the grass, the cattle and the feed program. If the seller is feeding hay for more than 60 days per year, do not buy. If there Cooke nearly every year sponsors grazing management meetings, sometimes featuring his is not a lot of grass, do not buy. If the cows weigh over 1,000 pounds, do not buy. Whenever friend Gordon Hazard, author of the book in doubt, do some more looking. R.P. Cooke’s 16 tips for Kentucky 31 fescue management 15. Attend pasture walks in the fescue belt at different times of the year. R.P. Cooke has a list of things he’s learned about dealing with that “better” fescue Southern Take notes, ask questions, think, learn and take action. graziers get from planned grazing. Here they are: 16. Do not spend excess money on silver bullets. They do not exist. 1. Dilution is the key to pollution. Fescue needs to make up no more than 35% of the pasture component. ~Beef Producer Advertiser’s Index 101 Ranch...... 31 Dos Bros Ranches...... 3 Miller Brangus...... 30 2H Brangus...... 31,44 Farris Ranching Company...... 33 Nunley Bros. Ranches...... 38,45 44 Farms...... IBC Garrett Brangus...... 44 OvaGenix...... 45 5K Cowbelle Ranch...... 44 Garry Clem Brangus...... 44 Pine Ridge Ranch...... 45 6th Annual Florida Brangus Bull Sale....29 GENETRUST...... BC Quail Creek Brangus...... 44 Advanced Genetic Services, LLC...... 45 Genex Cooperative, Inc...... 45 River Bend Ranch...... 10 Advancing the Braford Breed III Sale...... 4 Greenview Farms, Inc...... 3 Robertson Livestock...... 45 Alleman Cattle Company...... 3 Harris Riverbend Farm...... 27,45 Salacoa Valley Farms...... 1 AMS Genetics, LLC...... 10,34,35,48 Harvey Ranch...... 3 Santa Rosa Ranch...... 7,44 Bill Rainer Cattle Co...... 3 Ideal Productions...... 37 SBBA Showcase Sale...... 18 Briggs Ranches...... IFC, 45 Indian Hills Ranch...... 31,44 Sexing Technologies...... 16,17 Buckner Polled Beefmaster...... 44 Innovative Cattle...... 22 Skyhawk Brangus...... 44 Calyx Star Ranch...... 44 Integrated Breeders Service...... 41 TCR Genetics...... 45 Cavender Ranches...... 44 Isa Cattle Co., Inc...... 44 Thunderstorm R Cattle Co...... 3 Champion Genetics...... 45 J.D. Hudgins, Inc...... 44 Tommy Barnes Auctioneer...... 45 Chandler RLR Brafords...... 11 JLS International...... 43,44 Tri-Star Santa Gertrudis Sale...... 20 Corporron Acres...... 23 Lake Majestik Farms...... 5,44 Truitt Brangus Farms...... 44 Crochet Cattle...... 12,44 Lakin Oakley Auctioneer...... 45 V8 Ranch...... 44 Dillard Land & Cattle...... 44 Larry Smith Livestock...... 45 Wendt Ranch...... 45 Doak Lambert Auctioneer...... 45 Lingg Brangus Ranch...... 44 Westall Ranches, LLC...... 26,31,44 Doguet’s Diamond D Ranch...... 21,44 Livestock Photography by Nancy...... 45 World Series of Brangus Sale...... 31 Don Thomas & Sons...... 13,44 M & W Cattle Service...... 45

46 | september 2013 The EAR Calendar Please note that events/sales in bold have ads placed in this issue. Check them out! 19 Central Texas BBA Beef “On” Forage Performance September Bull Sale - Brenham TX 7 Lasater Ranch Sale - Matheson, CO 19 Thunder Valley Ranch Production Sale - Commerce, GA 7 Channarock & Friends Southern Revolutions Production Sale - Shreveport, LA 26 44 Farms Sale - Cameron, TX 7 The Brahman Catalyst Sate at Moreno Ranches - 26 Miller Brangus Bull & Female Sale - Waynesboro, Venus, FL TN 9-10 V8 Ranch Power of Production Internet Sale 26 Carr & Others Fall Sale - Floresville, TX 14 23rd Annual “Cadillac of Brangus” Sale - Madison, 26 Oak Creek Farms Production Sale - Chappell Hill, TX MO 26-27 Synergy VI Show & Sale - Giddings, TX 20 Nunley Brothers 12th Annual “One Ranch Raised” - Sabinal, TX 20 The Elite Simbrah Sale - Yoakum, TX November 1-2 GENETRUST at Chimney Rock - Concord, AR 21 Arkansas BBA Fall Sale - Conway, AR 2 President’s Council Sale - Fort Worth, TX 21 Heritage Cattle Co. Show Heifer Sale - Hungerford, TX 9 Mt. Laurel Classic Santa Gertrudis Sale - Calhoun, GA 21-22 District 6 Jr. Show & Sale - Richmond, IN 9 Hill Country Brangus Breeders Sale - San Angelo, TX 28 SBBA Showcase Sale - Lake City, FL 9 Louisiana BBA Cowboy Classic Sale - Lake Charles, LA 28 Live Oak BBA Fall Sale - Three Rivers, TX 9 Heart of Texas Beefmaster Sale - Groesbeck, TX 28 Arkoma Santa Gertrudis Sale - Tulsa, OK 9-13 Branch Ranch Brangus Bull Internet Sale 28 Western States BBA Bull & Female Sale - Dinuba, CA 15-16 World Series of Brangus Sale - Palo Pinto, TX 16 Union Town Brangus Bull Sale - Union Town, AL October 23 Collier Farms Performance Bull Sale - Brenham, TX 3 Advancing the Breed III - Lake Charles, LA 5 Isa Cattle Co. Performance Tested Bull Sale - San Angelo, TX December 5 J&T Farm First Production Sale - Savannah, TN 7 GENETRUST at Cavender’s Neches River Ranch - Jacksonville, TX 5 25th Anniversary Alabama Connection Sale - Hanceville, AL 7 Lone Star BBA Sale - Sulphur Springs, TX 12 Salacoa Valley Bull & Female Sale - Fairmount, GA 12 Ozark & Heart of America Fall Female Sale - Tulsa, OK 12 Heart of Texas Simmental/Simbrah Association Sale - Hearne, TX 12 South Texas BBA Buccaneer Classic - Robstown, TX Your ad could be in here! 12 CX Advantage Brangus Sale - Weimar, TX Call us to find out how. 18 10th Annual Santa Gertrudis Bull & Commercial Advertising Sales: Heifer Sale - Bloomington, TX Mark Cowan: 903/495-4522, [email protected] 18 6th Annual Florida Brangus Bull Sale - Richard Hood: 979/224-6140, [email protected] Okeechobee, FL Trey Kirkpatrick: 979/324-5518, [email protected] 19 Doguet’s Annual Production Sale - Poteet, TX Brad Wright: 979/219-4599, [email protected] 19 36th Annual Tri-Star Registered Santa Gertrudis Fax: 979/828-5532 “Elite Cow” Sale - Bloomington, TX www.amscattle.com/the-ear-magazine/

The EAR september 2013 | 47 48 | september 2013 The EAR