The Carolina Cattle Connection - Volume 37, Issue No. 12 (DECEMBER 2023)

CC C

arolina attle onnection

DECEMBER 2023 • Vol. 37, Issue No. 12

Spotlight on

RED ANGUS

ONNECTION 2023 N.C. State Fair Beef Cattle Shows Results ................................................................................... page 78 2023 S.C. State Fair Beef Cattle Shows Results, by Stan Clements .................................................... page 74 2023 South Carolina Sale Barn Cattle Receipts ................................................................................... page 68 A Message from the CEO — The Importance of Research, by Colin Woodall ................................. page 52 Alltech News .............................................................................................................................................. page 58 Amazing Grazing — Body Condition Scoring is Still Your Most Important Management Tool,

by Matt Poore ......................................................................................................................................... page 16 American Angus Association News ....................................................................................................... page 32 American Gelbvieh Association News ................................................................................................. page 50 American Hereford Association News ................................................................................................. page 27 American Shorthorn Association News ............................................................................................... page 52 Animal Agriculture Alliance News ........................................................................................................ page 49 Ashley’s Beef Corner — Fall Frenzy, by Ashley W. Herring ................................................................. page 14 Beef Checkoff News .................................................................................................................................. page 63 Beef Cuts and Recommended Cooking Methods ............................................................................... page 64 BioZyme News .......................................................................................................................................... page 70 Building on the Veterinarian-Client-Patient Relationship Opportunities for Improving Cattle Health and Welfare, by Julie Herman, DVM, MS ................................................................ page 60 Carolina Cooking — Green Peppercorn Crusted Strip Roast with Red Wine Sauce .................. page 59 Cattlemen’s Beef Board Update — Beef Checkoff Funded Educator Program Helps Cultivate New Generation of Informed Consumers, by Patty Wood ........................................ page 24 Certified Angus Beef News ..................................................................................................................... page 36 Director’s Report — Coming Full Circle, by Bryan K. Blinson ............................................................... page 3 E.B.’s View from the Cow Pasture — Two Cases Up and One Case Back, by E.B. Harris ......... page 19 Elanco News ................................................................................................................................................ page 73 Federation of State Beef Councils Update ........................................................................................... page 65 Forage News — Top Ten Grazing Tips for 2024 - Part 1, by Allen R. Williams, Ph.D. .................. page 28 Have You Herd — Incorporating Byproducts Feeds in Cattle Diets, by Viviana Ponce ............ page 22 N.C. Angus News — NCAA Annual Meeting, by Cortney Holshouser ......................................... page 37 N.C. Cattlemen’s Foundation — 2024-2025 Scholarship Applications Open ................................ page 63 National Alfalfa & Forage Alliance News ............................................................................................... page 72 National Cattlemen’s Beef Association News ..................................................................................... page 67 National Cattlemen’s Beef Association President’s Report — Representing America’s Cattle Industry on the World Stage, by Todd Wilkinson ............................................................... page 57 New NCCA Members for 2023 ................................................................................................................ page 46 North Carolina Cattle Receipts, Trends, and Prices ........................................................................... page 50 Pasture Managment Systems, Inc. Mile of Fence Program Update ................................................ page 45 Premier Select Sires News ...................................................................................................................... page 60 Public Lands Council News ...................................................................................................................... page 59 Purina News ............................................................................................................................................... page 48 Onward to Orlando Update ...................................................................................................................... page 57 Ridley Block News — The Cost of Not Supplementing, by Jill Peine ................................................ page 68 S.C. Charolais News, by Georgeanna Webb ........................................................................................... page 48 Senator James D. Speed Achievement Scholarship ........................................................................... page 58 South Carolina Cattle Receipts, Trends, and Prices ............................................................................ page 63 StayWild ‘23 — A WILD Weekend to Remember .............................................................................. page 24 The Chaplain’s Corral — The Gift, by Dave Harvey ............................................................................... page 18 The Night Before Christmas in North Carolina ....................................................................................... page 46 The Simmental Trail, by Jennie Rucker .................................................................................................... page 38 Trending in Food & Media ........................................................................................................................ page 62 Understanding Beef Quality Grades ..................................................................................................... page 72 Valley Vet Supply News — Three Steps to Take for a More Productive New Year on Your Operation, by Lacey Fahrmeier, DVM .............................................................. page 77 You Decide, by Dr. Mike Walden .............................................................................................................. page 20

N.C. Cattlemen’s Association

The Carolina Cattle Connection

President SCOTT WEST 489 Panacea Springs Road • Littleton, NC 27850 Vice Presidents RYAN CLARK 5250 NC 772 Hwy. • Madison, NC 27025

Vol. 37, No. 12 DECEMBER 2023 Sales & Publication Office

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Phone: 919-552-9111 Fax: 919-552-9216 Email: mail@nccattle.com Website: www.nccattle.com

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NCBA Policy Division Director - JOHN LANGDON N.C. Beef Council Director RALPH BLALOCK, JR. Beef Board Director - BRIAN WARREN

Manager, N.C.

Secretary/Treasurer - EVERETT JOHNSON

Manager, S.C.

Directors At Large MATT POORE • NEIL BOWMAN • TODD SEE

Executive Director - BRYAN K. BLINSON 2228 N. Main Street • Fuquay-Varina, NC 27526 N.C. Cattlemen’s Beef Council Director of Consumer Information ASHLEY W. HERRING

STAFF

BRYAN BLINSON

TRAVIS MITCHELL

Editor & Advertising Director CASEY L. HINNANT Assistant Editor & Proofreader KIM BURDGE

Administrative Assistant - KIM BURDGE N.C. Circulation

KIM BURDGE

S.C. Circulation

TRAVIS MITCHELL

S.C. Cattlemen’s Association

Executive Director - TRAVIS MITCHELL P.O. Box 207 • Saluda, SC 29138 Phone: 803-609-2828 Email: twmitch@clemson.edu

Material in The Carolina Cattle Connection is not to be reproduced in total or in part without the written permission of the Editor. All Website: www.sccattlemen.wildapricot.org submissions become property of The Carolina Executive Committee Cattle Connection, but we make every effort to President - Timmy Benton return items such as photographs and artwork as 1st Vice President - Joe Oswald IV requested. nd 2 Vice President - Gene Crim Secretary - Carol Hendrix Treasurer - Eric Seymour Past President - Roscoe Kyle

John Lews, Chester • Joe Oswald, IV, Allendale Roscoe Kyle, Inman • Terry Kirkland, Batesburg Lloyd Baxley, Georgetown • Joe Davis, Westminster Michael Hall, Abbeville • Richard Sox, Lexington Carol Hendrix, Westminister • Jamie Driggers, Hamer Timmy Benton, Walterboro • Michael Bailey, Lancaster Bonnie Cann, Abbeville • Ashley Mills, Blair Drake Yon, Ridge Spring • Gene Crim, St. Matthews Lee Haddon, Gaffney • Eric Seymour, Columbia

S.C. Beef Council

P.O. Box 11280 • Columbia, SC 29211 Phone: 803-917-1119 Email: scbeef@scda.sc.gov Website: www.sccattle.org

The Carolina Cattle Connection, the official publication of the N.C. Cattlemen’s Association and the S.C. Cattlemen’s Association is published monthly by the N.C. Cattlemen’s Association.

A complementary subscription is included with membership to each state’s association. Nonmember subscriptions are $30 per year.

All address changes for NCCA members to: The Carolina Cattle Connection 2228 N. Main Street • Fuquay-Varina, NC 27526 All address changes for SCCA members to: The Carolina Cattle Connection P.O. Box 207 • Saluda, SC 29138

RED ANGUS

History of Red Angus Cattle … page

Red Angus — Forging Ahead with Confidence,

by Tom Brink … page

Not Just Another Pretty Red Head, by Tracey Koester … page Net Return is Focus of Red Angus Programs,

by Jerry Simpson … page

Red Angus Association of America News … page

Reproductive Success Starts with the Bull, by Lisa Bryant … page Why All the Cut Tags?, by Rachael Oliver … page

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q DECEMBER 2023

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The Carolina Cattle Connection q DECEMBER 2023

Director’s Report

By BRYAN K. BLINSON Executive Director, NCCA

Coming Full Circle “Taking Beef Quality Assurance Full Circle” is the title for the educational program at the 72 nd Annual North Carolina Cattlemen’s Conference. What a circle it has been since we rolled out BQA many years ago. When we began teaching about BQA, our focus was to make better beef and help to build demand. Based on our consumers’ desire for beef locally, domestically, and internationally, we have made great progress. In North Carolina, we have done our part for sure. This year, our conference educational program and theme throughout will be the strides we have made and the opportunities we have to continue improving.

For a bit of historical perspective, some of you may remember the rollout of the trailer with all of the stuffed animal displays, the equipment, and the other educational items that we used to explain the principles of BQA. The early Beef Quality Audit had been rolled out, and as an industry, we determined that we had lots of problems that were making our consumers “iffy” about buying beef.

Problems included injection site lesions, hide damage, bruising, and inconsistency.

You and your fellow producers embraced the changes we needed to make (some with a bit of kicking and screaming, but embraced them nonetheless). Today, most of those issues are mere memories.

However, Beef Quality Assurance programs and educational opportunities are alive and well. We are now focused on other aspects of the industry that can, not only continue to build demand for beef, but also help to put money in our pockets due to better management practices. These practices help us to describe to consumers that we are not only raising the best beef possible but protecting the environment and providing the cattle in our care with as stress free and comfortable life as possible.

One of the great champions of BQA, Lisa Pederson from North Dakota State University, will be our lead speaker and help to set the stage for the other presenters, who will cover topics from

emerging issues in animal health, heifer development, low stress handling, soil health, and forage production to policy issues that address our ability to continue our progress.

It is also a great honor to have as our luncheon speaker Colin Woodall, CEO of the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association. For those of you who have never heard Colin speak, prepare to be energized. He brings passion and excitement to the industry and the people he serves in a way that is truly inspiring.

We will have our regular committee meetings and annual meeting on Friday afternoon, followed by lots of fun and fellowship in the trade show. Throughout the event, the sponsors of the trade show will highlight new products as well as tried and true technology, services, genetics, marketing opportunities, and much more.

Saturday, we will continue to help you explore ways to make your cattle enterprise safer and more successful with interactive educational opportunities such as farm safety, trailer safety, dealing with emergency situations, and greater knowledge about local beef production.

This year, for the first time, we will host the N.C. Forage and Grasslands Council Winter Conference on Thursday before the 72nd Annual NCCA Conference begins on Friday morning. Their keynote speaker will be Alan Williams, and he will help broaden the understanding of soil health through grazing. You will find a registration for this conference adjacent to ours in this publication and electronically as well.

I don’t want you to think that this gathering is all about education and that there will be no time left for fun.

Remember, folks, this is my last hurrah of leading this conference. I plan for everyone who attends to have fun, whether they want to or not.

On Friday night, we will kick off our social in the trade show with brisket, as always. We will have our biggest auction ever to benefit NCBA PAC, the Young

Producers Council, and the conference itself. Everyone reading this column has that one cow that is always slow to breed, a little harder doing than you would like, or just has a habit of standing in the gate and not letting anyone in the corral. With prices for cull cows today, make her one and bring the proceeds to the auction to let her at least contribute to the cause and make you smile. In sports, they call it addition by subtraction.

Following the auction, the highlight of the night will be a performance by one of our own. The band Dirty Grass Soul will be the entertainment for the night. Kevin Dedmon and his brother Kris, who grew up in Shelby and still feed cattle every day, and their band is no stranger to many of the Young Producers Council. He was the highlight of many an Animal Science Club event and will be for our conference.

The conference will continue with the Saturday morning events. We will recognize and celebrate our youth at the awards breakfast. Another highlight is that we would like to recognize all of the Alumni of the Perry and Doris

Teeter Leadership Institute. If you are an alumni of this great program, we certainly want to encourage you to come to the conference and enjoy seeing old friends and encouraging this year’s class of young people. We will have additional educational opportunities at the trade show on Saturday morning, and you can try your hand at the skill-a-thon contest that will be set up for the youth.

I am very excited about the conference and look forward to seeing all of you there. Coming full circle is kind of a common theme of the conference, and I cannot wait to see it come together.

This full circle includes not only BQA but also celebrating the success of the young leaders who have come through the Teeter Leadership Institute. It also includes my full circle from my first conference in 1994 to my last in 2024. Getting a chance to thank all of you for letting me work for you all these years at our biggest event of the year is the part of the circle I look most forward to closing.

Thank you each and every one. See you in Hickory!

IRM Red Books Are Here We would like to thank Performance Livestock & Feed Company and Carolina Stockyards for again sponsoring this book.

The 2024 version is now available to help cattle producers effectively & efficiently record daily production efforts, which can help enhance profitablity and reduce stress levels. In addition to Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) best practices and proper injection technique information, it has more than 100 pages to record calving activity, herd health, pasture use, cattle inventory, body condition, cattle treatment, A.I. breeding records, and more. It also contains a calendar and notes section.

Simply return the order form below, along with $7.00 for each book to: N.C. Cattlemen’s Association 2228 N. Main Street Fuquay Varina, NC 27526 You can now order them through our website at www.nccattle.com/resources/merchandise/red-book-order-form.

You can also call our office at 919-552-9111 or email us at kim@nccattle.com.

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q DECEMBER 2023

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e Special

Spotlight on

RED ANGUS

Section f

History of Red Angus Cattle Seven innovative breeders chose to use Red Angus in 1954 to establish the industry’s first performance registry.

Throughout its history, the Red Angus Association of America has gone on to make all the tough choices and all the right choices. In recent years, the Red Angus breed has attained a high level of popularity from commercial cattlemen, and for all the right reasons.

The Origin of “Angus” - Like most modern American beef breeds, the Red Angus breed had its beginning in Europe.

In the 8th century, according to some authorities, hardy Norsemen raiding the coasts of England and Scotland brought with them small, dun colored hornless cattle which interbred with black native Celtic cattle of inland Scotland, which had upright horns. A naturally polled black breed was produced, which roughly corresponded to the black Aberdeen Angus of today, although it was a considerably smaller bodied animal. The polled characteristic was very slow to spread inland and, for almost a thousand years, was confined principally to the coastal areas of England and Scotland.

Eric L.C. Pentecost, the noted English breeder of Red Angus cattle, offers a specific and logical explanation for the introduction of the red coloration into the Aberdeen Angus breed. In the 18th century, the black Scottish cattle were too light to provide sufficiently large draught oxen, so larger English longhorns, predominantly red in color, were brought in and crossed with the black native polled breed. The resultant offspring were all black polled animals since black is a dominant color, and red is a recessive one. However, all carried the red gene. Subsequent interbreeding produced an average of one red calf in

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four, in accordance with Mendel’s law of heredity.

Angus - Red or Black - Early in the development of the Aberdeen Angus, Hugh Watson of Keillor, Scotland, arbitrarily decided that black was the proper color for the breed and thereby started a fashion. He might well have chosen red instead. Leon J. Cole and Sara V. H. Jones of the University of Wisconsin Agricultural Experiment Station published a pamphlet in 1920 on “The Occurrence of Red Calves in Black Breeds of Cattle,” which contained this pertinent paragraph: “One more point should be emphasized, namely that the red individuals appearing in such stock (Aberdeen Angus)...are just as truly ‘purebred’ as their black relatives, and there is no reason why, in all respects save color, they should not be fully as valuable. The fact that they are discarded while the blacks are retained is simply due to the turn of fortune that black rather than red became established fashion for the Aberdeen Angus breed. Had red been the chosen color, there would never have been any trouble with the appearance of blacks as off-color individuals since redto-red breeds true.”

The preceding paragraph, written more than three decades prior to the establishment of the Red Angus Association of America, shows a true appreciation of the basic strengths of the reds. This is emphasized by the current revival and popularity of the red strain of Aberdeen Angus throughout the world.

Early Angus Herdbooks - The first Aberdeen Angus herdbook, published in 1862 in Scotland, entered both reds and blacks without distinction. This practice is continued in Britain today, as

The Carolina Cattle Connection q DECEMBER 2023

is the case throughout most of the world.

Aberdeen Angus was introduced into America in the 1870s and soon attained high popularity. The first American herd books, published in 1886 and 1888, respectively, made no record as to the color of individual animals. In 1890, 22 reds were registered in the American Aberdeen Angus Herdbook of some 2,700 individuals entered that year. Finally, the reds and other colors were barred from registration altogether after 1917. This severe discrimination against the red color in an effort to ensure a pure black strain brought a marked decline in the number of red calves born in American herds.

Rebirth of “Red” Angus - Various cattlemen throughout the United States understood the outstanding values of the reds. In 1945, the first of these cattlemen started selecting and breeding reds cropped from the best black Aberdeen Angus herds in America. By 1954, a sufficient number of herds had been established to form a breeder’s organization known as the “Red Angus Association of America.”

With a temporary headquarters in Sheridan, Wyo., seven innovative cattle breeders created the Red Angus Association as the first performance breed registry in the United States. In August of 1954, the Association’s first president, Waldo Forbes, Sr., summed up this vision of the founding members: “The policy of the (Red Angus) Association is to discourage the more artificial practices in purebred cattle production... and to place its faith instead in objective tests, consisting for the most part of comparisons within herds of factors of known economic importance

and known heritability...By making this an integral part of the registration system, Red Angus breeders feel that even faster progress can be made toward the ultimate goal of more efficient beef production.”

From the beginning, performance data was required for registration for all cattle. The ultimate goal was to initiate a system to objectively evaluate and select cattle based on traits of economic importance.

The Red Angus Association of America - The RAAA has long been noted for its farsighted vision of beef production. Over a variety of fronts, Red Angus has either led the industry or been an early adopter of new technologies.

This maverick attitude allowed the RAAA to adopt philosophies and technologies deemed too risky or unconventional by other associations. Here is a sample of some visionary policies enacted by the RAAA: A Leader in the Performance Movement - In 1954, when the Association took this bold move to build a “performance registry,” the scientific community had not even settled on using 205 days to serve as the age at which weaning weights would be adjusted to. Although collecting and turning in weaning weights has become second nature for Red Angus breeders, very few associations require performance data as criteria for registration, even today when the value and necessity of the performance data have been so clearly demonstrated.

A Leader in Open A.I. - Artificial Insemination has proven to be one of the most powerful tools in the beef industry’s genetic progress. However, as this technology became available, most breed associations enforced strict regulations, making the technology impractical for many breeders until the 1970s. However,

e Special the RAAA in 1954 set its own course in which A.I. was open and unrestricted within the Red Angus breed.

A Leader in Performance Data in the Showring - In the decade of the ‘90s, several breeds started the use of objective data in the showring as an additional tool for the judge, besides the traditional visual appraisal of animals. Red Angus was the first to incorporate performance data in the show ring, holding the first “performance” show in 1956. Although Red Angus is not known as a “show” breed, the Association does sponsor a National Show each year. How is it run?

You guessed it, the same as in 1956, with the judge being provided all pertinent objective information such as EPDs. A Leader in the Promotion of Crossbreeding - As early as 1961, the RAAA developed a pamphlet promoting crossbreeding. This was approximately ten years prior to the industry even starting to accept crossbreeding as a tool for commercial cow/calf production. In 1970, Red Angus continued its industry leadership by starting and promoting an F-1 program. 1999 marked another first as the RAAA successfully spearheaded a joint breed promotion extolling the advantages of heterosis.

A Leader in Offering an Open Registry - In 1980, the RAAA broke ranks from the other British breeds by instituting a category registration system.

This far sighted program still kept the 100 percent Category 1-A cattle separated, but it additionally allowed breeders to develop purebred Category 1-B cattle through a process of breeding up.

Furthermore, by instituting a Category II and III, the Association is able to maintain a performance registry for foundation animals and composites.

A Leader in Focusing on Commercial Customers - Red Angus has always prided itself as the first breed

Spotlight on

RED ANGUS

that focused its primary attention on customers — the commercial cow/calf producers of the United States. In keeping with this focus, the American Red Angus Magazine is sent to all Red Angus bull customers. The Association also started a Commercial Marketing Program in 1994. Believed to be the second such program in the industry, it offers a wide range of services designed to enhance the profitability of producers utilizing Red Angus genetics in their commercial operations.

A Leader in Total Herd Reporting - In the tradition of being the true “performance breed,” the Association again broke ranks with the other breed associations when they implemented an inventory based fee structure and reporting system in 1995. Total Herd Reporting (THR) requires the production of every registered Red Angus female to be accounted for every year, as well as the performance of every Red Angus calf raised through weaning. If a cow and her calf are not accounted for in a given year, the cow is removed from the registry.

A Leader in Evaluating Fertility The RAAA has led the industry with its commitment to objectively describing traits related to reproduction and sustained fertility. The first of this new class of EPDs was Red Angus’ Stayability estimate. This EPD ranks animals with regard to the probability their daughters will continue producing in the herd past six years of age. The development of a new Heifer Pregnancy EPD expands Red Angus’ commitment to this vital area.

A Leader in Genotypic Certification - In 1995, Red Angus unveiled the industry’s first genotypic and source identified program, the Feeder Calf Certification Program (FCCP). The innovative FCCP has the honor of being

Section f

the first program of its kind to be USDA Process Verified, certifying a calf’s link to the “Angus” gene pool.

A Leader in Value Based Marketing - Red Angus has been at the forefront of the industry’s efforts to move toward a system of value based marketing. The Association is believed to be the first breed association to offer its members and commercial customers a valuebased pricing grid with a major packing company.

Leadership Has Made A Difference - Red Angus are Angus, yet the Red Angus breeders’ history of leadership and innovation has made a profound difference in the red strain. They have avoided the short term fads that have negatively affected so many other breeds.

Coupled with the long term commercial focus of the membership, the Red Angus gene pool also offers many advantages.

Red Angus provides a consistent source of traditional Angus traits, including carcass quality, maternal characteristics, calving ease, and moderate size. In addition, Red Angus offer uniformity, good disposition, and an outstanding appetite.

Today, Red Angus are seeing unparalleled popularity both in the U.S. and internationally. In fact, the growing

notoriety of the breed is bringing worldwide demand for breeding stock from South Africa, Australia, and South America, where the majority of the cattle are red in color. This has led Red Angus to become the leading U.S. beef breed in semen exports. In the U.S., the number of Red Angus has tripled from the mid1980s through the mid-1990s. In Canada, where red and black Angus cattle are registered together (which is the case in most countries), the number of red cattle registered is approximately the same as the black strain.

The Future - Due to the numerous natural advantages with which the Red Angus breed is endowed, and based on the heritage and continued philosophy of the Red Angus Association of America, it appears that a great breed is coming into its own. The future of the breed as the common denominator in progressive cattle producers’ crossbreeding systems is unlimited. As Joseph Givhan, founding RAAA member, shared in his early publication on the breed’s history...

“Here is a noble breed that will never die, destined to increase and flourish. It shall cover the grazing lands of the earth and forever enrich the husbandry of mankind.”

You shouldn’t have to have a gun held to your head to take advantage of the expert A.I., superior genetics, the best in purebreds, and outstanding farm supplies featured in the Classifieds in this issue!

The Carolina Cattle Connection

q DECEMBER 2023

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e Special

Spotlight on

RED ANGUS

Section f

Not Just Another Pretty Red Head

By TRACEY KOESTER Red Angus Association of America Ask any Red Angus breeder or stakeholder why he or she loves the breed, and their first response will likely be, “The cows!” We all love the cows.

Both commercial and seedstock breeders brag about their cowherds. It’s their pride and joy.

If you press further, their “why” ranges from: “She just does her job.”

“She has an incredible disposition.”

“She is what a cow should be.”

Excellence By Design - This love for the Red Angus brood cow isn’t by chance, nor is it limited to her incredible maternal traits. The Red Angus female is the backbone for performance, feed efficiency and carcass traits, too.

She is hands down the foundation of the herd, the breed, and, ultimately, the cattle industry. While sires get the fame and notoriety, the Red Angus cow still carries half the genetic equation, influences multiple generations, and truly makes or breaks the management and efficiency at the grass-roots ranch level.

From the beginning of the breed’s organization in 1954, the founders had a vision.

Waldo Forbes, founding member, and the first president, said, “In general then, the policy of the [Red Angus] Association is to discourage the more artificial practices in purebred cattle production, and to place its faith instead in objective test, consisting for the most part of

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comparisons within herds of factors of known economic importance and known heritability. By making it an integral part of the registration system, the Red Angus breeders feel that even faster progress can be made toward the ultimate goal of more efficient beef production.”

That vision of economic importance and efficient beef production holds true nearly seven decades later.

It really is simple how the Red Angus Association of America ensures these red headed damsels are held to a high standard that serves as the foundation of commercial herds. The RAAA places strict guidelines on registered cows that ultimately influence commercial cow/calf operations across the country.

Total Herd Reporting - Every year, every cow is accountable to raise and report a calf. Even if that calf is below average or dies, the RAAA member must report it – or a reason why the cow didn’t have a calf – in order to keep that cow on an active registered status.

To register her calf, the breeder must report a birth date, weaning date, and weaning weight on the calf, although additional data is highly encouraged.

Those additional data points on the calf include birth weight, yearling date and weight, carcass ultrasound scans, scrotal circumference measurements on bulls, and heifer pregnancy data on heifers.

Annual cow data includes her udder score at calving and weight and body

The Carolina Cattle Connection q DECEMBER 2023

condition score at weaning. Foot scores on all animals are strongly suggested.

DNA profiling and parentage are required on sires and donor dams and highly encouraged on all registered cattle to quickly improve the accuracy of the individual’s EPDs. Why would any of this information be important to a commercial cow/calf operator?

Every weight, score, and metric collected and analyzed increases the accuracy of predicting how that animal – or offspring – will perform. It raises the standard and holds the animal and breeder accountable.

Most importantly, this quality control is directly passed down to commercial cow/calf operations using Red Angus genetics.

Select with Confidence - As we head into bull sale season, now is the perfect time for bull buyers to familiarize themselves with Red Angus EPDs so when catalogs fill their mailboxes, they are ready to pore over the data to select the perfect bull for their production goals.

For commercial producers, RAAA offers three selection indexes to assist in their bull buying decisions. HerdBuilder, GridMaster, and the recently added Profitability and Sustainability Index, or ProS, combine related economic factors into one easy to understand number.

Ryan Boldt, RAAA director of breed improvement, said, “These selection indexes now provide economic information on each animal that indicates how its genetic profile will contribute to profitability in all major sectors of the

e Special

Spotlight on

RED ANGUS

Section f

Red Angus – Forging Ahead with Confidence

By TOM BRINK Red Angus Association of America beef supply chain.”

Information in the HerdBuilder index covers traits that occur at the commercial cow/calf level, from conception through weaning.

The GridMaster index encompasses traits that occur after weaning through harvest.

ProS is simply a combination of HerdBuilder and GridMaster that allows for a single value to summarize an animal’s EPD profile and predict the profitability across the board.

The full suite of EPDs is also available for those operations that want to hone-in on a trait at a deeper level.

Red Choice - RAAA recently launched the Red Choice program to promote improved heifer development, increase marketing opportunities for Red Angus females, and create reliable sources of high quality replacement heifers for cattle producers. The program embraces proven reproductive and genetic management practices which, in turn, lead to high quality, long lasting females ready to hit the ground running in commercial herds.

Based on the Show-Me-Select Replacement Heifer Program from the University of Missouri, the Red Choice program comes with several requirements that increase the overall quality of enrolled females, such as minimum vaccination requirements, pre-breeding

exams, utilization of reproductive technologies, parasite control, and feet and leg scoring.

The program culminates with sale eligibility wherein cattle producers can purchase premium Red Choice females for their herd with the confidence that those females have been managed and raised to the highest quality standards possible. The primary goal for these better managed heifers is their retention in the herd of origin, where their extra value will be measurable over time.

Enrollment deadlines are February 1 for spring breeding and September 1 for the fall breeding season. A full description of the program and its requirements is available at www.RedAngus.org.

Long Lasting Impact - Most ranchers easily appreciate the Red Angus cow for her good work ethic, predictable performance, unmatched maternal traits, and gentle disposition.

Behind those traits are decades of records, planned matings, and tough culling decisions that impact every Red Angus commercial producer, feedlot, packer, and consumer.

So, while the herd bulls will continue to be in the limelight, know that the adage, “Behind every good bull is a great cow,” isn’t just clever verbiage in the Red Angus breed. That cow is sticking to business and raising her calf on the range, which, in turn, impacts the entire beef supply chain.

There were many positives for Red Angus and the RAAA during the 20222023 fiscal year. Perhaps most noteworthy is that the number of active Red Angus females increased once again despite challenging drought conditions in many parts of cattle country. This increase was not large — up 1.3 percent to 104,547 head compared to last year. However, the positive statement any size increase makes for the health of Red Angus is worth underscoring.

U.S. beef cow numbers shrank 4 percent during the past year and are down 8 percent in the past three years.

From 2020-2023, the national Red Angus cowherd grew 4 percent, even though many RAAA members ranch in areas hit hard by drought. Talk about bucking the trend! Red Angus hit a new high in active female numbers, while the overall beef cowherd dropped to its lowest level in more than 60 years. With the moderation of drought conditions and the strengthening of the cattle market, the foundation for further growth has been established.

Red Angus bull prices also set a record during the combined fall 2022 and spring 2023 sale season. Price data collected by the RAAA marketing team pegs average bull prices in the most recent 12 month period at $5,628 per head. One year earlier, comparable prices averaged $5,254. We do not have a precise count on the total number of Red Angus bulls sold. However, it’s safe to say that our growing cow inventory is resulting in more bulls being marketed, and with prices rising, Red Angus bull demand can be characterized as strong and getting stronger.

Another growth category worth mentioning is DNA testing. Red Angus breeders are committed to maintaining accurate pedigrees on their cattle. That goal drove parentage testing up 17 percent year over year. They are also tapping into the increased EPD accuracies that accompany genotyping. DNA testing to obtain genomically enhanced EPDs rose 7 percent. Among registered Red Angus animals, 23 percent are now being

The Carolina Cattle Connection

genotyped.

President Theodore Roosevelt once famously said, “Knowing what’s right does not mean much unless you do what’s right.” RAAA is working hard to do what is right for its members, their commercial customers, and the beef industry. One example is our spearheading of a multiorganizational movement called the Genetic Merit Pricing Task Force. GMP’s singular goal is to identify ways to accelerate the uptake and use of genetic information in the feeder cattle and calf market. These markets are largely color and appearance based today, which is what GMP will work to change. Moving from subjective characterizations toward objective value measurements in pricing feeder cattle will be a big leap forward and can effectively stimulate faster genetic progress industry wide. Good genetic cattle will be rewarded, and that is good for Red Angus.

Finally, a highlight of the year is our progress in education under the direction of Kim Heller, Ph.D., and numerous other RAAA employees. In its third year, Learn From the Best continues to impact younger breeders seeking to learn from the older generation of successful seedstock producers. Our efforts with juniors are expanding as well, with the RAAA board voting in June to launch our first Red Angus Youth Expo scheduled for June 10-14, 2024, in Chickasha, Oklahoma. This event will provide opportunities for youth and their families to engage in education, competitions, and Junior Red Angus national heifer, steer, and bull shows.

Much more could be discussed about the many ways Red Angus and RAAA are forging ahead with confidence in the future. The cattle are right for the times, and decades long work of breeders past and present is paying off. Stay tuned for exciting times ahead!

q DECEMBER 2023

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e Special

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Section f

Net Return is Focus of Red Angus Programs

By JERRY SIMPSON Red Angus Association of the Carolinas An often used cliche’ is “the easiest money you will ever make is the money you don’t spend.” Regardless of whether it’s crops, poultry, or cattle, a certain level of production requires a certain level of inputs, and lowering the costs of these inputs is often the key to a net return on investment and, in some cases, financial survival.

This is particularly true in the cattle business as with a decline in prices, producers have failed to realize

a similar decline in the cost of inputs.

Often this can result in producers who get caught up in a failed paradigm; that is, they keep managing their operation the same way while expecting different results. Such is the case with beef cattle.

As beef producers, we are no longer in competition with pork and poultry producers for market share alone. We are also in competition with those same industries along with others for inputs

2024 Spotlight Issues Schedule Most of the breed associations in North and South Carolina have stepped forward and renewed their contracts for Spotlight sections in The Carolina Cattle Connection for 2024. If your breed is not featured as a Spotlight section and you would like to inquire on any open months please feel free to contact me.

Below is the tentative schedule for the upcoming year.

2024 Reserved Spotlight Issues JANUARY FEBRUARY MARCH APRIL MAY JUNE JULY AUGUST SEPTEMBER OCTOBER NOVEMBER DECEMBER

CHAROLAIS FORAGES ANGUS PIEDMONTESE BRAHMAN HEREFORD GELBVIEH SIMMENTAL SANTA GERTRUDIS WAGYU BRANGUS RED ANGUS

For more information about your breed’s Spotlight Issue, contact:

The Carolina Cattle Connection 2228 N. Main Street • Fuquay-Varina, NC 27526 919-552-9111 • mail@nccattle.com PAGE 8

The Carolina Cattle Connection q DECEMBER 2023

like fertilizer, fuel, grain, and land. There just seems to be no “free lunch” when it comes to the cost of beef production.

These changes require a new shift in management away from maximum output and more towards efficiency.

Since its inception in 1954, Red Angus has had among its core values, “…to discourage the more artificial practices in purebred cattle production and to place its faith instead in objective tests, consisting for the most part of measurements of important factors of known economic importance.” Focusing on these “Economically Relevant Traits” most important to commercial producers has allowed Red Angus to become the fastest growing purebred breed today and the only breed to show an increase in registrations over the last two years.

Why? Fertility - Profit starts at Reproduction. No trait impacts profitability like fertility, especially fertility with reproductive pressure. It’s one thing to have a 95 percent pregnancy rate, but can you do it in less than 60 days to yield more calves in the first 21 days of the calving season and yield a more uniform, higher value calf crop?

Rather than simply using yearling bulls’ scrotal circumference as an indicator of their daughters’ age at puberty, the Red Angus Heifer Pregnancy (HPG) EPD predicts producer desired results.

Pregnant Heifers - Producers who can count on a higher percentage of pregnant heifers will have a larger number of replacements they can cash crop.

Longevity - University studies estimate a cow must produce until age five or six in order to break even. Females that stay in the herd mean reduced replacement rates and more valuable heifers to sell, which is a huge economic driver for cow/ calf producers. As one of the few breeds with mandatory Total Herd Reporting (THR), Red Angus offers the advantage of Stayability (STAY) EPDs, which predict a bull’s ability to sire daughters that remain productive past their breakeven point. Red Angus females sired by high Stayability Red Angus sires are the foundation of a cow herd built to last.

Cows Eat Money! Feed costs

typically represent producers’ largest expense, and this is never truer than today. In this era of increased input costs (grain, hay, land value, fertilizer, etc.), reducing annual cow maintenance costs is paramount to profitability. Red Angus’s Mature Cow Maintenance Energy Requirement (ME) EPD arms producers with a tool to help keep feed costs in check. Efficient, easy fleshing Red Angus replacements can help you get a handle on feed costs and make the most of available forage.

Calving - Profit begins with a live calf. Heifers that experience calving problems are often slower and harder to rebreed. Calving ease is a trait of major economic impact, and Red Angus describes the trait genetically with Direct and Maternal Calving Ease EPDs. Purchase Red Angus replacements sired by high Maternal Calving Ease Red Angus sires and you’ll sleep better.

Disposition - Beyond obvious safety issues, the superior docility of Red Angus increases profits through easier handling, better A.I. conception, faster gains, higher USDA quality grade, and fewer dark cutters.

It just makes sense, lowering the cost of inputs while adding value leads to increased opportunity for profit. I know I told you earlier there’s no such thing as a free lunch, well actually there is...heterosis! Every cattleman knows the impact hybrid vigor can have on performance and added value when used in a well planned crossbreeding system.

Premium Baldy and Red Navigator are two programs that offer commercial producers opportunities to capitalize on heterosis through the use of Red Angus genetics. Since 1954, Red Angus has focused its efforts on commercial profitability. These efforts have been realized when net return is key because Red is Right Now! If you would like more information on how Red Angus can add to the efficiency of your operation or if you need help in locating Red Angus bulls or replacement females, feel free to give me a call at 704-302-2940, or contact any of the breeders listed on our website at www.redanguscarolinas.com.

RED ANGUS NEWS Genetic Merit Pricing Task Force Begins Work to Accelerate Use of Genetic Information in the Feeder Cattle Market Price discovery in the feeder cattle market rarely includes genetic information. Almost nothing is known about the genetics of 98 percent of feeder cattle being sold on a weekly basis. That is unfortunate, and it holds the industry back because genetics control approximately ⅓ of growth, efficiency, and carcass results.

Enter the Genetic Merit Pricing Task Force, a coalition of 32 producers from all industry segments assembled to help the industry accelerate toward widespread use of genetic information in pricing feeder cattle. Ken Odde, Ph.D., former Kansas State University animal science department head and group facilitator, believes the Genetic Merit Pricing Task

Force has a critical mission that can help make all industry segments more efficient and prosperous.

“If you look at crops, pork, poultry, dairy, and virtually all other agricultural products, genetics are heavily emphasized,” Odde explained. “Yet in the beef industry, we trade millions of feeder cattle and calves annually, while knowing next to nothing about their genetics.

Without objective genetic information on potential growth rate, feed efficiency, marbling and other key traits, we cannot accurately project how a given group of cattle will perform or how valuable their carcasses will be. That lack of genetic information creates a big hole in our ability to price cattle according to their true value.”

Task force members represent some of the nation’s brightest and most

experienced cattle producers, marketers, backgrounders, and feeders the industry has to offer. Their charge is to help bring objective genetic information into the price discovery process for feeder cattle and calves, which ultimately means more sellers offering this type of information to prospective buyers and then buyers effectively using this information as they bid on and buy cattle.

The GMP Task Force also has a large and growing list of supporting industry organizations.

“We are pleased with the broad based industry support we have received thus far,” Odde said. “We are in conversation with many other key cattle organizations at the current time. Look for our list of supporters to grow significantly in the months ahead. Once people understand the importance of genetic information becoming actively used in the feeder cattle and calf markets, they quickly recognize it is the right direction for improving the beef business.”

The GMP Task Force held its first face-to-face meeting on November 2 in Denver. Quarterly in-person meetings

will continue for approximately 15 to 18 months, with additional virtual meetings held as needed to supplement the group’s discussions and work.

“When you consider the success objective genetic information brought to our seedstock market over the past several decades, you get some idea what could happen in the feeder cattle market,” said Tom Brink, Red Angus Association of America CEO and one of the GMP Task Force founders. “Industry wide genetic improvement will progress more rapidly when genetic information is part of the price discovery process, and that benefits everyone from ranch to consumer.”

About the Red Angus Association of America. RAAA serves the beef industry by enhancing and promoting the measurable advantages of Red Angus and Red Angus influenced cattle. The RAAA provides commercial producers with objectively described cattle by implementing new technologies and utilizing scientifically sound principles that quantify traits of economic importance to beef producers in all segments of the beef industry. For more information, visit www.RedAngus.org.

Contact these RAAC members to learn more about Red Angus genetics and how they can fit into your herd.

HARDROCK BEEF CATTLE Ronnie & Donna Holman 4613 Hickory Nut Ridge Road • Granite Falls, NC 828-302-8659 ronnie@hardrockbeefcattle.com JK RED ANGUS Jeff Banfield & Madison Adams 331 Tee Jay Farm Road • Aberdeen, NC 910-315-3821 jkredangus@gmail.com LANGDON RED ANGUS & SIMMENTAL John & Eileen Langdon 7728 Raleigh Road • Benson, NC 919-796-5010 johnlangdon5@gmail.com ROGERS CATTLE COMPANY Johnny & Sharon Rogers 945 Woodsdale Road • Roxboro, NC 336-504-7268 rccbeef@gmail.com PRESNELL RED ANGUS Jonathan & Jacob Presnell 368 Whitaker Road • Shelby, NC 704-473-2627 (Jonathan) • 704-616-8775 (Jacob) BULL HILL RANCH Jim & Alvina Meeks • Raymond Prescott, Manager 1986 Trinity Church Road • Gray Court, SC 864-682-3900 • 864-682-2828 bullhill2@mindspring.com

Cole Maness, President - scmaness3@gmail.com

The Carolina Cattle Connection

COUNTRY BOY FARMS David Miller 316 Key Road • Edgefield, SC 706-840-3709

q DECEMBER 2023

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Section f

Why All the Cut Tags?

By RACHAEL OLIVER Red Angus Association of America The other day, while my father and I were processing a group of new calves that we will background in our feedyard, I thought to myself as I cut out every visual tag placed in the ears of those calves we were processing. Why do we hold so much value in a visual tag when it is simply cut out at the first stop in that calf’s life cycle?

We use visual tags, also commonly called dangle tags, to pair calves with their mothers. Yes, that is extremely important, and there is a place for visual tags in the ranching community. But I ask again, why do we hold so much value in a visual tag? As a producer, I want to do what is most economical for my operation, and I want to implement practices that add value to my operation and cattle. So, if I use visual tags to help identify which cow

PAGE 10

is paired to which calf and then know at the next segment in the beef industry that tag is going to be cut out, would I spend more money on the quality of that tag? Or would I buy the cheapest tag that is simple and easy to use?

The million dollar question asked to the marketing team during the summer video sale run and even now during the fall run was from buyers and feedyard operators asking us why Red Angus has not embraced the use of EID tags. The feedback we receive from those industry leaders is they are less likely to bid on a calf even if it is enrolled in FCCP wearing a visual tag, but if they have an EID paired with the visual tag, they will bid on those calves. The idea is they do not want to purchase a calf to then turn around

The Carolina Cattle Connection q DECEMBER 2023

and place an EID in its ear. That is more time and money for that buyer. Hence, the lower bid producers can see.

When purchasing, cattle buyers already know what branded beef program in which they will place those calves. But

if a calf comes into the feedyard sporting a visual tag and it is cut out, the information tied to that tag is immediately erased. Now, if the visual tag is lucky enough to make it all the way to the packer, the readers the packers use cannot scan a visual tag.

These scanners determine what branded beef box that load of cattle will go in and are only designed to scan EIDs. Once again, without an EID, you are left with zero carcass data and zero data on anything from when that calf left the ranch.

So again, I raise the question, if the people purchasing Red Angus calves continually ask us to do away with the visual tags and embrace EID usage, is it not worth it to make a subtle change in our operation that will add an extra bid or even a couple extra bids?

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Section f

Reproductive Success Starts with the Bull

By LISA BRYANT Annual breeding soundness exams are key to overall herd fertility.

Buying health insurance is not a fun task, but it’s a necessity to mitigate your risk in case of a major health event.

Increasing your herd’s reproductive performance presents a similar scenario.

Testing all your bulls before breeding season is a simple task that can help prevent a major blow to your wallet.

“Passing a breeding soundness exam is insurance for the owner,” said Barry Whitworth, DVM and senior extension specialist in the Oklahoma State University Department of Animal and Food Sciences. “All bulls should be tested annually to make sure they’re good.”

An untested, sterile bull can be costly if several open cows turn up, he said. Smaller producers with only one bull are at higher risk, but Whitworth warned that ranchers running five or six bulls in a pasture can also have issues if one bull is sterile. “If he’s the biggest, baddest guy out there, he’s going to keep everybody beat off, and you’re still going to have lower pregnancy rates.”

Whitworth said sub-fertile bulls will eventually get cows bred, but not in a desirable timeframe like a bull that passes a BSE. “You’re going to have more cows that get bred later in the breeding season and calves born later in the calving season,” he said. “At weaning time, there

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will be more lightweight calves compared to the cows that bred and calved early in the season. You’re just losing pounds.”

Research shows that bulls that pass a BSE get cows bred earlier in the breeding cycle, and they have a higher success rate of settling, Whitworth said. “You don’t tend to see repeat breeders that may breed and conceive, but 30 days later, she’s breeding right back. That means you’re going to have more calves born at the first of the calving season, which should correspond with higher weaning weights at the end of the year.

“A bull should get about 60 percent of the herd bred in the first 21 days.

Within 45 days, 98 percent of all cows should be bred.” He added that it’s economically important to get all cows bred in the first three breeding cycles.

Age doesn’t matter when it comes to the importance of performing a BSE on bulls, Whitworth said. However, the “why” to test may vary for different ages of bulls.

The Carolina Cattle Connection q DECEMBER 2023

It’s not unusual for a young bull to fail the exam initially, especially if he’s been over conditioned, he continued. “A lot of our young bulls, especially if they’ve been fed a lot, will get a deferred rating the first time because they are so fat.”

Too much fat in the scrotum causes an inability for temperature regulation.

This leads to motility and morphology abnormalities in the sperm cells. Whitworth said we can often fix this by letting the bull lose weight or by getting him out in the field where he can travel and increase exercise.

On the flip side, older bulls are more likely to fail because of an infection or injury.

Extreme weather events in regions not accustomed to that type of weather can also temporarily affect a bull’s sperm.

Whitworth said frostbite or extreme heat can damage the testicles, and the severity of the damage may influence recovery time.

Sperm production takes 61 days, so if there’s an insult or injury to the testicles, the producer may see open cows if he maintains a tight breeding season. If he leaves bulls out with cows longer, he may see an extended calving season.

Whitworth said it’s important to note what a BSE isn’t. “A BSE doesn’t guarantee you that the bull is going to breed cows because we don’t test libido.

We also don’t know how aggressive that bull will be about getting cows bred.”

Whitworth said the BSE exam also doesn’t test if a bull can breed the cows, so it’s critical for ranchers to observe the bull breeding cows. The exam also doesn’t test for trichomoniasis or other diseases, which can affect the bull’s breeding ability or cause issues with fertility.

“Bulls can have infections that may not prevent the bull from breeding, but the cows may not settle,” he said. “For instance, if we’ve got trich, the bull’s going to breed, and those cows will probably settle. However, through the breeding process, we’ve infected her with the organism, and she will slough the calf.”

So many factors play a role in getting a live calf on the ground, so it’s important to minimize risks whenever possible.

Since profitability in the cow/calf industry starts with high pregnancy rates, a simple breeding soundness exam is a small investment in the profit picture to help ensure great returns.

e Special Inside the Breeding Soundness Exam - A breeding soundness exam is a systematic evaluation by a licensed veterinarian to determine a bull’s reproductive potential. An exam will typically cost $50-$65.

Whitworth said most vets will start with a physical exam to evaluate the bull’s overall condition. The vet will verify that the bull can walk, breathe normally, and has two good eyes.

“Sight is really important. Bulls mainly rely on sight to watch for cows in standing heat,” he said. “If they have only one good eye, they’re not seeing the whole picture, so the bull could miss some cows that are in heat.”

A rectal exam will follow to check for abnormalities and ensure the seminal vesicles are not enlarged, inflamed, or infected.

Ve t s w i l l m e a s u r e s c r o t a l circumference and verify that the bull

Spotlight on

RED ANGUS

meets minimal requirements for his age. Scrotal circumference is important for multiple reasons, Whitworth said.

“Through research, we know that bulls with larger testicles have more capacity to breed cows. We also know the female offspring of bulls with larger testicles cycle and get bred earlier, increasing fertility.”

The vet will also palpate the testicles for firmness. “They ought to be a lot like your biceps when flexed.”

They will check the penis for warts, signs of damage and to make sure the bull can extend without deviation. Whitworth said the electro-ejaculator can cause some corkscrew or side-to-side deviation. If a deviation is noted, producers should make sure they observe the bull breeding a cow.

Semen will be collected and evaluated for motility and abnormalities.

“Seventy percent of sperm cells should be normal for a bull to pass,” Whitworth said. The vet will also inspect the sperm

Section f

cells for head defects and make sure there is progressive motility in a common direction in a certain number of cells.

After the exam, the vet will classify the bull as satisfactory, unsatisfactory, or deferred. Whitworth said an unsatisfactory rating is rare since that

The Carolina Cattle Connection

would show a problem that will never change. He said it’s more common for vets to check the deferred classification, attempt treatment of the issue, and retest the bull in 60 days.

Reprinted with permission from RAAA

q DECEMBER 2023

PAGE 13

care that goes into raising beef. Usually, folks do not consider the time and level of commitment it takes to get a steak to the dinner plate. By highlighting their soil health approach, rotational grazing techniques, and pasture management, our farmers could describe the effort it takes to deliver quality beef.

Ashley’s Beef Corner

T

Fall Frenzy

By ASHLEY W. HERRING Director of Consumer Information N.C. Cattlemen’s Beef Council The N.C. State Fair was hugely popular, with families attending and eager to see agriculture. We cooperated with other commodities to feature our best educational exhibit yet. Our North Carolina beef cattle farm family videos highlight the everyday stories of

commitment to care and the relatable long days that farm life brings. We always had several folks enjoying our video loop from the benches and soaking in a quiet moment at the fair to learn.

We featured a new kid zone area that focused on MyPlate healthy eating with

Virginia Herd Health Management Services, PC In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) & Embryo Transfer (ET) * On-farm aspiration of oocytes via Ultrasound Guided Ovum Pick-Up (OPU).

play foods. It’s important to reach our audience at an early stage so that good eating habits can form. This spot was a great place for little ones to engage in learning while their families could easily watch. Coloring sheets and activity books provided a respite from the hectic fair atmosphere and allowed them to be creative.

Our Barnyard Beango ag facts game was back with questions that had participants learning about each commodity. Beef, dairy, pork, eggs, and more farm facts had to be found on the various banners and displays in our exhibit. When the participants had five in a row, they could select a prize from our options. This engagement tool has certainly moved the needle in terms of helping everyone learn more about food animal agriculture. A fun game with a purpose has proven to be quite the hit. We will continue to build on this and improve in the future.

* Embyos come back in 8 days for placement or direct thaw freezing on-farm. * Can do on donors aged 8 months and older, up to 120-150 days pregnant.

Doesn’t interfere with pregnancy. * Pregnant cows work really well, so the cow doesn’t get out of her production group. * Can do a donor every 2 weeks.

* NOW AVAILABLE * Small Ruminant Laparoscopic Artificial Insemination (AI) & Embryo Transfer (ET) Oocytes fertilized at BoviteqUSA in Madison, Wisconsin. www.boviteq.com

For more information, contact:

PAT COMYN, DVM

P.O. Box 555 Madison, Va. 22727 540-829-3625 (cell) • 540-948-5238 (office/fax) pcomyn@verizon.net Visit us online at www.vhhms.com.

PAGE 14

The Carolina Cattle Connection q DECEMBER 2023

Beef also enjoyed some time on the Got to be N.C. Cooking stage. Producers from across the state were paired with a chef as they prepared a beef meal for a few audience members to enjoy. It’s a great opportunity to highlight beef in front of a large group there and connect the gate-to-plate concept.

Special thanks to L&S Family Farms of Nashville and Farmasea of Hampstead for participating. They were both excellent spokespeople for our commodity and helped explain the

The fairs bring a lot of engagement and excitement when it comes to agriculture. It’s a great opportunity to bring folks in to learn a bit more about raising beef. We are keen to capture these moments and make the most of them.

Our holiday beef campaign will be in full swing as you receive this issue.

We hope that you enjoy a wonderful time with your families. Merry Christmas!

The Carolina Cattle Connection

q DECEMBER 2023

PAGE 15

By DR. MATT POORE N.C. State University

Body Condition Scoring is Still Your Most Important Management Tool There are many management tools you should be using as you make the day-to-day decisions it takes to make a successful beef enterprise. Many of these tools are very important, but none is more critical than body condition scoring.

Body condition scoring is a system of evaluating the amount of fat reserve a cow is carrying. The system is a simple visual assessment of cow fatness, with several areas of the body observed, including the brisket, the ribs, the tail head, and across the top of the back (Figure 1).

The body condition scoring system used in beef cattle uses a 1-9 scale, with 1 being extremely thin and 9 being extremely fat. Other classes of livestock, like small ruminants and dairy cattle, are scored using a 1-5 scale. When you discuss this topic, you need to make sure that everyone involved is using the same 1-9 scale. Usually, for practical application, we use whole numbers, but in some cases, such as in research, we use the half scores as well.

The scoring is usually done with only visual evaluation, and that is one of the nice things about it. Cattle don’t need to

be gathered or worked through a chute for you to evaluate their body condition.

Some factors, such as how thick their hair coat is and how full of feed they are, can have an impact on visual scores, and that should be considered. For example, if you are highly dependent on ribs in your scoring, a thick hair coat might obstruct your view and cause you to score high.

This is the big reason for looking at various areas. If you have cows in a chute, want to get fine tuned, or are just learning the system, it is helpful to feel for fat over the ribs, around the backbone, etc.

I like the 1-9 scale partly because it is easy to teach to producers. Many producers don’t use a formal system but do observe the condition of their cows.

Most cattle producers have an idea of whether their cattle are thin, ok, or fat, and that is, in essence, a three point scale.

The 1-9 scale is simply three divisions in the thin category (1-3), three divisions in the “ok” category (4-6), and three divisions in the fat category (7-9).

Descriptions of the scores follow: • BCS 1 – Extremely thin and weak.

Severe muscle wasting. Animal is near

Figure 1. Areas to evaluate during body condition scoring.

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The Carolina Cattle Connection q DECEMBER 2023

death.

• BCS 2 – Extremely thin but not weak. Muscle wasting is evident in the hind quarter.

• BCS 3 – Very thin. All ribs and back bone easily visible and no apparent fat deposits anywhere on the body.

Individual vertebrae are visible along the backbone. Some muscle wasting is evident in the hind quarter.

• BCS 4 – Thin. Ribs and backbone visible, but individual vertebrae not visible. No muscle wasting. Sunk in appearance around the tail head.

• BCS 5 – Moderate condition. Last two or three ribs usually visible, and little fat is evident in the brisket or around the tail head, but area around the tail head is not sunken.

• BCS 6 – Smooth appearance. Ribs not easily visible. A small amount of fat is evident around the tail head and in the brisket.

• BCS 7 – Fleshy appearance. Brisket and tail head have considerable fat deposits, and the back has a flattened appearance.

• BCS 8 – Obese. Neck appears short.

Back is flat with dimples at the backbone.

A lot of fat is present in the brisket and around the tail head.

• BCS 9 – Extremely obese.

Appearance is similar to an 8 but more exaggerated. Brisket is extremely full of fat, and large fat deposits are found around the tail head.

How you use the system will vary depending on the size of your operation and the level of management you wish to employ. Every producer should subconsciously assess body condition every time they look at their cows. Once you get familiar with the system, you should be able to just take one look at the herd and come pretty close to the average body condition score. You also should keep in mind the cows that consistently have the lowest scores, as they sometimes give you an indication that the condition of the whole herd is slipping.

If you are a larger producer with a higher level of management interest, then it is a good idea to keep a record of each cow’s body condition score when they go through the chute, especially at the prebreeding work and at pregnancy check time. These body condition scores give you a good indicator of the adequacy of the nutritional program and will help you in evaluating pregnancy rates.

The reason managing body condition is so important is that it influences general health and reproductive success.

If cattle are very thin (BCS 3 and down), they may have a depressed immune system, leading to more disease and parasite loads, and they will also have lower quality and quantity of colostrum,

which will reduce calf health, vigor, and survival. Cows with a body condition score of 4 and lower will also have lower reproductive performance. There will always be individual cows that will be exceptions to the rule, but on a herd basis, having an average score lower than 5 will mean reduced breeding rates.

There has been a lot of research on critical body condition scores, and all that work points to having cows with a 5 or better score at all times to optimize reproductive rate. In a study from Texas, 1,041 cows were body condition scored at the start of the breeding season. Those cows with a score of 4 had a 58 percent breeding rate, those with a 5 had an 85 percent breeding rate, and those with a 6 score had a 95 percent breeding rate. In a study from Florida at three locations, 624 cows were scored at the pregnancy check.

Cows with a BCS of 3 had a 43 percent breeding rate, cows with BCS of 4 had a 66 percent breeding rate, and cows with a BCS of 5 had a 94 percent breeding rate.

There are many other studies available that agree closely with these results.

I talk to a lot of producers that don’t have a controlled breeding season and often get the statement that “I don’t need to worry about body condition and its influence on breeding rate because I leave my bull in all the time. That way, none of my cows comes up open.” This may be true, but a thin cow in this kind of year round calving system is more likely to have more than a year interval between calves, which also costs you money. Regardless of your management program, managing to maintain good body condition will pay off.

It is important to discuss ideal body condition scores at different times in the lifecycle. For mature cows, you need to shoot for a minimum body condition score of 6 at calving, 5 at the start (and end) of the breeding season, and 4 at weaning. For young cows (first and second calf), you need to target about a half score higher than the mature cows with 6-7 at calving, 5-6 during the breeding season, and not less than a 5 at weaning. Heifers tend to lose condition faster and are harder to put condition back on after calving than mature cows, so don’t let them get thin in the first place.

For most operations, the working range in body condition will be BCS 3 to 7. It should be very unusual to have 1s, 2s, 8s, or 9s in a good production system.

The very low scores are an indicator of malnutrition, parasites, or perhaps very old age. The high scores will normally only be seen in barren cows or in extreme overfeeding.

The good thing about the body condition scoring system is that it is

simple, inexpensive, and requires no investment in any equipment. Because of that, it is something you can start doing today! I encourage you to walk through your cows and write down some body condition scores. Start by trying to estimate the average for the whole herd

and identify the high scoring and the low scoring cow. If you find the average score is less than a 5, if the minimum score is less than a 4, or if the high score is higher than a 7, then you should take steps to alter your management program to get closer to the target scores.

A body condition score 6 cow.

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PAGE 17

The

Chaplain’s Corral

By DAVE HARVEY Chaplain, Cowboys for Christ

The Gift Isaiah 9:6-76 - “For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of his government and peace, there will be no end. He will reign on David’s throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the Lord Almighty will accomplish this.”

Thanksgiving Day is always a very special day for family and friends as we gather around the turkey to give thanks for the bounties the Lord so graciously supplies throughout the year. So many all across the nation have had a really tough time this year with hurricanes, floods, fires, terrorist attacks, sickness, accidents, and the many trials and pitfalls of life.

However, they will still try to gather with family and loved ones on this special all-American day. Thanksgiving Day is truly the American family day, with good fellowship, good food, and good times.

Right after Thanksgiving Day, we start

the countdown to Christmas Day, which is the all-Christian day of celebrating the birth of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Although Christmas Day is a worldwide “holy day,” it is certainly an American family day, too. Because we sure have good fellowship, good food, and good times, plus we have the special treat of giving and receiving gifts. It is certainly fun to get a gift, but as we get more mature, it is so very special to give a special person or persons a gift that is really needed and really appreciated. I probably remember the gifts that I have given that were really wanted and needed much more than I remember the gifts that I have received.

I have had the great pleasure of giving someone a special gift, and years later, when I think about that special time, I still get a smile on my face as I remember the joyous reaction of the one receiving that gift. It is just neat to surprise a loved one and watch as they laugh and sometimes even cry with joy at receiving that special gift that will be cherished. I am sure that many reading this can recall special times like that in

their lives. I wonder if those who have received those gifts remember that special time just as vividly as I or the giver does?

I also remember gifts I have given that were totally inadequate for the occasion or seemed to not be wanted by the receiver. I mean, after seeing the disbelief and the disappointment in their eyes, I sure wished I had kept that gift hidden and had never given it to them.

I sure hope that none of us have given a gift that was totally rejected or refused. I can assure you that it would greatly hurt your heart and would sure make for a few bad days and even some sleepless nights.

But what about the most perfect, wonderful gift ever given? This wonderful gift comes with another gift that is a great blessing for all eternity, as we are told in Romans 6:23 - “For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

Truly the ultimate gift of the one and only son of God, who was given by Father God to sinful mankind that, except for this most perfect gift, would be completely lost and condemned for all eternity.

I wonder if Father God remembers the gift that He gave to mankind more than we remember His wonderful gift.

Does He remember the pain, the suffering, the heartache of giving His only son to a disbelieving and unthankful world of sinful human beings? Does He dislike the holiday season? Does He dread this time of year and hope it passes quickly because of the hurt in His heart for the precious gift that was given in love, only to be rejected by so many?

When He turns to His right and looks at His beloved son and the scars that cover His son’s brow and looks at His hands, feet, and side that were pierced, does He wish He had

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PAGE 18

The Carolina Cattle Connection q DECEMBER 2023

never given His precious gift to save sinful mankind from eternal death?

Not only has His gift been rejected, and this wonderful gift has not only been met with disappointment but by so very many with disgust, total disbelief, and even hatred. In fact, after hundreds of years, His gift of love is still being refused as not needed or wanted. His perfect gift was and is being cast off by a very imperfect world of sinful mankind. His timing was perfect. His announcements of this perfect gift were many and over a period of many centuries, so actually, it shouldn’t have been a surprise gift. He even sent a special messenger to alert everyone that the gift was on His way.

The gift was delivered in a very special way. “Isaiah 7:14 - “Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel.” The gift was announced by a whole bunch of angels singing and praising almighty God for giving such a wonderful gift. Luke 2:8-20 - “And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid.

I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today, in the town of David, a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” Suddenly, a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests.” When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.” So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told.”

Cattlemen, cowboys, and cowgirls, this holy holiday season, please accept this wonderful gift. John 3:16 - “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” And please remember the gift, and please receive the gift that was given in Holy Love by the Holy Father.

Have a blessed and Merry Christmas in Jesus’s name, Amen.

E.B.'s View from the Cow Pasture

By E.B. HARRIS

Two Cases Up and One Case Back We had a cattle auction back in September at the Granville County Livestock Arena in Oxford for Sam Daniels from the Oxford area. He was having a complete dispersal of his cow herd. He wanted us to transport his cattle to the arena for him. We made the arrangements for him.

On Tuesday morning, the week of the sale, we got four livestock trailers lined up. Shane was driving one, Barry was driving one, Zack was driving one, and I was driving one. I was going on down I-85 from Henderson to Oxford when Shane called me over the radio and said I needed to go back and check on Barry. He was having truck trouble.

Shane got Barry with the truck over to the arena. He said there was a lot of oil on the underside of the truck, and there was also some coming out of the exhaust pipe. The cattle were most important, so we went on and got those loaded up, and then we would take care of the truck.

After we got to a good point, we analyzed the truck and decided with almost 400,000 miles on it, the truck had probably blown a piston. It was using oil right along. As a matter of fact, we put in two quarts within 15 miles. This kind of reminds me of a friend of mine who used to log.

He was one of those fellows who was going to make something work one way or another. He was a go-getter. He had a brother from up around New Jersey or Delaware who had a log export business.

Some weekends, he would take off up north with a load of logs. He was driving a Diamond T, one of those trucks you would call a home body. He would go off up north and make the trip back. He would stop down by Shot Haithcock’s store on the edge of town and buy three cases of Rugby motor oil. This was in the late ‘60s, and it was economical motor oil. It was 10¢ a quart or 8¢ a quart if you bought a whole case. He would buy three cases.

He had a hose that had a funnel connected to the end, all held together with tape, zip ties, and hose clamps, that was tied up to the dashboard of the truck. The hose was running through the firewall of the cab that was then taped to the top of the oil filler spout on the engine. He said when the oil pressure gauge got to fluttering a little bit, he would reach over in the passenger seat and get a screwdriver. He would pop a top on one of those Rugby oil cans and drop it over in the funnel a couple of times and it would level out. He had it down to pretty much a science where he was going to have to add some oil. He said it was two cases up and one case back.

I looked at my Ford truck and thought about my friend rigging up a funnel to go through the firewall. The only thing is I don’t run it on regular routes, so I probably would have to do something different other than two cases up and a case back, and there are not 8¢ a quart motor oil.

Looking for a spot for the hose to go through the firewall.

The Carolina Cattle Connection

q DECEMBER 2023

PAGE 19

You Decide!

By DR. MIKE WALDEN

William Neal Reynolds Distinguished Professor Emeritus N.C. State University You Decide: Which Dominates, Bad or Good Economic News? Many experts say humans tend to focus on bad news over good news. The logic is that bad news can threaten our well being — perhaps our very existence — whereas good news may make life better but often is not life changing.

We tend to see these reactions to economic news. For example, big declines in employment will often get headlines, whereas similar increases in jobs will receive a mention but maybe not a headline.

Like most time periods, today’s economic news is a mix of bad and good.

My goal in today’s column is to present both and then let you decide which should be getting top billing in the media.

Let’s begin with the bad news.

Many surveys show inflation is the top economic issue among households.

Inflation has a double barreled negative impact on household budgets. First, by definition, higher inflation means the prices of items we buy are rising faster.

Second, if our income doesn’t increase at the same pace — which is often the case — our standard of living drops.

Because the average worker’s earnings have not kept pace with inflation since 2020, the purchasing power of household earnings has fallen 7 percent. This cut in our standard of living is not unique; it usually happens with rapidly rising prices.

Although most household earnings will catch up when high inflation subsides, it usually takes years for this to occur.

Interest rates for borrowing are another big negative news item. In the last two years, the average interest rate on a home mortgage has doubled, and credit card interest rates have risen six percentage points. These increases have made it harder for people to buy homes and other expensive products that require borrowing.

The high rates also mean households must devote more of their income to servicing their debt. Household payments on debt as a percentage of personal income are now higher than they were prior to the pandemic.

Finally, gas prices are a concern.

Although today’s price of $3.50 to $4 per gallon is well below the $5 a gallon in mid2022, drivers still remember the $2 to $3 per gallon price during the years just prior to the pandemic. Furthermore, if the new

PAGE 20

war in the Middle East restricts world oil supplies, gas prices could go much higher.

The result of this bad news is summarized in how households evaluate their personal financial situation. The Federal Reserve conducts an annual survey on this issue. The latest survey from 2022 shows the percentage of households rating their personal finances as good or excellent continues to drop, extending a trend that began in 2020.

Now, on to the good news. Although average consumer prices are still rising, the increases are moderating. During the summer of 2022, average consumer prices were rising 9 percent year over year. The latest year over year inflation rate is now 3.7 percent. The Federal Reserve, which is the key player in controlling inflation, has a goal of reaching a 2 percent year over year inflation rate. The 2 percent rate is significantly lower than the 3.8 percent annual average over the past 50 years.

The economy also continues to grow.

The value (after removing inflation) of all products and services produced in the nation, called gross domestic product or GDP, has been rising at a similar pace in the past two years as it did in the two years prior to the pandemic. The situation is the same in North Carolina.

Of course, jobs are one of the key measures of economic progress. Both the nation and North Carolina have had full recoveries from the jobs lost during the pandemic. North Carolina now has 7 percent more jobs than pre-pandemic, growth that’s more than twice as fast as the nation’s gain of 3 percent. North Carolina’s job growth rate has also accelerated from its pace before the pandemic, while the national job growth rate has remained the same. A tentative conclusion is that North Carolina has become even more attractive as a home for businesses and households after the pandemic than before.

It’s also informative to go behind the aggregate job totals to look at what they can tell us about shifts in the economy. Again, comparing current job numbers to those immediately before the pandemic (February 2020), only two major economic sectors — manufacturing and government — have fewer jobs. The largest job gains, all over 10 percent, have been in transportation and warehousing,

The Carolina Cattle Connection q DECEMBER 2023

professional positions, the financial sector, and technology. The smallest job growth rates occurred in clerical jobs, retail trade, personal services, and the leisure/hospitality sector.

An observation from this dichotomy of fast growing and slow growing job sectors: On average, the jobs in the fast growing sectors tend to pay high or medium salaries. In contrast, the sectors with slow job growth have much lower average salaries. An initial conclusion is that the North Carolina job market in the post pandemic economy is shifting away from lower paying employment to medium and higher paying employment.

One last piece of good news concerns the labor shortage. Labor force participation — a measure of the percentage of potential workers who are working or looking for work — plunged during the pandemic and remained lower even as the economic recovery began.

Compared to its pre-pandemic level, North Carolina’s labor force participation rate dropped more than the national rate.

The good news is that today, both the national and North Carolina labor force participation rates are at 99 percent of their pre-coronavirus rates, with more upward trends likely to come.

All together, there is both good and bad news about the economy. You will need to balance the two components and decide if the recent news is a net plus or a net minus.

You Decide: What Do Interest Rates Tell Us? We have a love-hate relationship with interest rates, especially in terms of their level. Investors in interest-paying investments like CDs (certificates of deposit), bonds, and money market funds love higher interest rates because it means they earn more money. In contrast, borrowers dislike higher interest rates because they result in higher loan payments to buy homes, vehicles, and other big ticket items.

But there’s more to interest rates than just what they mean for our earnings or payments. Embedded in interest rates and their changes is information about various elements of the economy.

First, what is an interest rate?

Essentially, an interest rate is the price of moving money over time. Consider this simple example. Say you need to borrow $1,000 for use today, and you agree to pay it back in one year. The interest rate is 6 percent. This means you can have $1,000 today if you agree to pay the lender $1,060 ($1,000 x 1.06) a year later.

Or, looking at the same example from the lender’s perspective, the lender considers not having $1,000 today but having $1,060 a year from now to be equivalent.

There are two components to any interest

rate: the expected annual inflation rate and the real rate. The expected annual inflation rate compensates the lender for the loss in purchasing power of dollars between the time of the loan and the time of the loan repayment.

Continuing with the above example, if the lender anticipates a 4 percent inflation rate between now and a year from now, then each dollar will be worth 4 percent less one year later. Hence, just to keep the purchasing power of dollars the same, the lender would need to charge a 4 percent interest rate.

Using economics lingo, the real rate reflects the “rate of time preference” of the lender. Translated to everyday language, the real rate is the rate of interest it will take for the lender to give up a dollar today after the lender has been compensated for expected inflation. Another way to think of the real rate is to assume there is no inflation and then ask what someone would have to receive next year to give up using a dollar today. If the answer is 2 percent, then in the absence of inflation, a lender considers having $1 today or $1.02 a year later to be equivalent.

Any interest rate is the sum of the expected annual inflation rate over the life of the loan and the real rate. Using the example, with an expected annual inflation rate of 4 percent and a real rate of 2 percent, the observed interest rate is 6 percent.

There is a distinctive pattern to interest rates based on the length of the loan.

Normally, the interest rate charged for longer loans will be higher than the rate for shorter loans. Why? Because forecasting inflation and factors that impact the real rate component – which I discuss later – are more difficult to do over a longer period of time than a shorter one. So normally, we observe an “upward sloping yield curve” – where interest rates rise with the length of the loan.

If the opposite occurs, meaning short term interest rates are higher than long term interest rates, then an “inverted yield curve” exists. This can happen if investors become worried about the current economy, and they consequently move money to longer term investments. One of the worries could be an imminent recession. Interestingly, an inverted yield curve currently exists.

What can move interest rates up and down, and why? Obviously, the expected annual inflation rate can. Often, if the inflation rate has been rising, people can expect the rate to be higher in the future, and thus, the inflation component of the interest rate will jump. This influence is usually confirmed when the Federal Reserve raises its interest rates.

Conversely, if the inflation rate is falling and is expected to continue to fall, then the inflation rate component should ultimately decline. Yet, again, often, the lower expected inflation rate will need to be supported by the Federal Reserve lowering its interest rate.

There is a special place in our economy for one interest rate. It is the interest rate paid on ten year Treasury notes. A ten year Treasury note is an investment with the federal government where the investor receives a fixed interest rate on the money invested, and the investment lasts for ten years. However, there is a market for buying and selling federal investments, so owners of ten year Treasury notes can always sell prior to the ten years.

Many readers will be surprised to learn that investments with the federal government are considered safe. Despite many battles over the federal budget, the U.S. government has never missed an interest payment on Treasury investments.

There are two reasons ten year Treasury notes receive attention. First is because interest rates on other loans – in particular, mortgage interest rates – closely follow the ten year note rate up and down. So, if the ten year Treasury note jumps, mortgage rates will follow.

The second reason for attention is what movement in the ten year Treasury rate can tell us about the “real rate component” of interest rates. If the ten year rate rises, usually that is interpreted as bad news about the economy. Conversely, if it drops, it means good news.

Recently, the ten year rate has taken a big jump, putting it at almost a 20 year high.

Many factors have been offered as reasons, including worries the Federal Reserve will keep interest rates higher than previously thought, concerns over federal borrowing and the national debt, and what the emerging Mideast war will do to prospects for wider fighting and impacts on oil prices.

There’s more to interest rates than meets the eye. Hopefully, with the background presented here, you can better decide why interest rates change and what they mean about the economy.

You Decide: Is the Fed Done Raising Interest Rates? Federal Reserve policymakers have received much criticism over the last two years, ever since they began raising interest rates.

Anyone taking out loans has seen what the higher rates can do to loan payments.

But could there be some relief on the horizon? Has the Federal Reserve (Fed) signaled it’s ready to stop increasing interest rates? And even better, is there a possibility that next year the Fed may begin lowering interest rates?

I’ll present the current thinking about the Fed’s plans and then let you decide what the future path of interest rates may be.

But first, let me remind you why the Fed has been increasing interest rates.

When COVID-19 hit, the economy crashed, and the jobless rate jumped to 14 percent. The Fed went all-out to save the economy. No one knew how far

COVID-19 would spread and how long it would last. Paraphrasing the words of former Fed Chair Ben Bernanke during the subprime recession in the late 2000s, “We don’t want to wake up one day and not have an economy left.”

The Fed has two ways of influencing the economy. It can impact interest rates by moving an interest rate it directly controls.

The Fed also has the power to change the supply of money in the economy.

During the pandemic, the Fed used these powers to the fullest, reducing its key interest rate effectively to zero, causing other interest rates to tumble. The Fed also increased the money supply by $6 trillion, largely by financing the federal debt issued to fund COVID-19 relief spending.

The economy began to strongly revive by the middle of 2020, and the recovery continued in the following years. Economists are already debating whether the Fed overdid its help. One reason for this debate is what happened next: roaring inflation.

The Fed ignored inflation when it used its powers to stimulate the economy and promote job growth in 2020. This is not unusual. Although the Fed’s mandate is to keep both inflation and unemployment low, it usually focuses on one goal at a time. The reason is simple. The policy prescriptions for lowering the inflation rate and lowering the unemployment rate are the exact opposite.

To push unemployment down, the Fed runs wide open, lowering interest rates and creating money. But to moderate inflation, the Fed does the opposite, raising interest rates and reducing the money supply.

Why was the Fed ignoring inflation in 2020? First, the Fed considered growing the economy and jobs more important. Also, there was little evidence of rising inflation in 2020. Finally, the Fed thought the economy would recover in the same way it did after the subprime recession when there was no jump in inflation, but the jobless rate remained persistently high. The Fed thought the problem after COVID-19 would be unemployment, not inflation. Instead, the exact opposite occurred. As we moved into 2021, the jobless rate continued to drop, but the inflation rate soared.

However, the Fed waited an entire year — until early 2022 — before shifting policy to address inflation. There are still questions about the reason for the delay. The most logical answer is the Fed didn’t realize how long it would take to fix supply chains. The Fed’s stimulative policies of easy money and low interest rates combined with supply shortages were a perfect recipe for big price jumps.

The Fed’s about-face in 2022 was one of the fastest policy shifts in the agency’s history. In less than a year and a half, the Fed took its interest rate from

zero to over 5 percent. They also cut over $2 trillion from the money supply.

With the supply chain largely fixed and the economy growing more slowly, price pressures have moderated. The year-over-year inflation rate has eased from over 9 percent to close to 3 percent.

The Fed’s goal is 2 percent. Also, the economy has thus far avoided a recession.

With the Fed’s rapid slamming of the brakes on the economy a year ago, most analysts expected a recession by now.

Now let me turn to the future and address two questions: Has the Fed finished increasing interest rates, and if so, when might the Fed begin to cut rates?

The Fed has kept its key interest rate constant since May. Although the Fed is very careful about revealing policymakers’ thinking, I think the Fed is pleased with the direction of the economy. Specifically, they like the fact price increases have gotten smaller, and the economy has not slid into a recession.

And although the average household’s

standard of living is still lower today than before the pandemic, workers’ earnings have begun to rise faster than prices.

So here are my current forecasts. I see no further Fed induced interest rate hikes. This doesn’t mean interest rates can’t rise for other reasons, such as fears about the extent and impact of the Middle East conflict, for example.

But I don’t see any reductions in the Fed’s key interest rate for a while — probably no sooner than in mid-2024. The Fed wants to make sure its “medicine” continues to work to move the annual inflation rate to 2 percent. But once the Fed is satisfied that this is happening, I predict it will cut its key interest rate by 2 percentage points by the end of 2024. This change will prompt other interest rates to drop.

Guessing the actions of the Federal Reserve is always tricky. But I think the evidence and signs are aligning to motivate the Fed to make some interest rate reductions by this time next year. So, is it time to celebrate or continue to be wary? You decide.

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PAGE 21

By VIVIANA PONCE N.C. State University -- ANS 402 Beef Management

Incorporating Byproducts Feeds in Cattle Diets It is important to keep records of all input costs to create a management system where the goal is to optimize. Optimization refers to reducing input costs and receiving a larger output in return. Taking this into consideration, what is the largest operating cost for cow/calf producers? Some might be tempted to say disease, reproduction, maintenance, or equipment, but according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, “Feed expenses are the highest operating cost for cow/calf producers, comprising 75 percent of these costs in 2021.” Since feed expenses take up a large portion of a producer’s budget, it is important to start looking for ways to reduce this expense. Reducing this cost would allow for more income to be available for other management practices while still being able to meet the nutrient requirements of the animal. One way to reduce feed expenses is by using byproduct feeds either as the main source of nutrition or as supplementation.

By using byproduct feeds not only meets the nutrient requirements of the animal but reduces feed costs, not in competition for the same resources that are used for human consumption and recycling products from industries that would not be used for human consumption (Yang, K.).

Byproduct feeds are products from various industries that have gone through processing plants and are not for human consumption but are rich in nutrients that production animals can use as feed (Yang, K.). Byproduct feeds can be classified into two categories: stalks and residues. Stalk feeds include parts of the plant that are high in fiber, like stalks, stems, and leaves, but are low in other nutrients like protein. Some examples of stalk feed are wheat straw and corn stalk, which are an excellent source of fiber and can help create and maintain a high functioning rumen (Yang, K.). Residue feeds are byproducts from both the plant and animal industry and are rich in protein and fat concentration but low in fiber concentration. Some examples of residue feeds are oil seed meals, seeds, fruit pulp, whey, fish, bone, blood meal, etc., which are excellent sources of protein and fat (Yang, K.). Animal byproducts are good sources of quality amino acids, which can be easily

PAGE 22

digested, which reduces the amount of feed the animal would need to meet their protein requirement. One thing to take into consideration when using animal byproducts is that “Current FDA regulations prohibit feeding ruminant derived meat meal or meat and bone meal to ruminants to prevent bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE)” (Stewart, L.). Since using byproduct feeds is not new in the animal feed industry, there are guidelines and resources that producers can use when making nutrition decisions concerning what to feed their herd. An example is From Byproduct Feeds: Current Understanding and Future Perspectives, Table 1 shows the current knowledge of the chemical composition of certain byproducts, and it can be used as a resource to help when making nutrition decisions.

Before including byproducts in your herd’s diet, it is important to know what your current feed expense is. By being conscious, you will be able to make decisions regarding whether changing your nutrition plan or changing an aspect would be beneficial in lowering the cost of feed. It is also important to acknowledge that byproducts are not created equal, and variation is present.

Variations between suppliers can lead to large variations in the chemical composition of a byproduct. It is important to know the nutrient composition of a byproduct feed before adding it or utilizing it in your herd’s diet. By knowing the chemical composition of the byproduct, you can accurately create a balanced ration, knowing how much energy, protein, minerals, and vitamins are present in the feed. To acquire the chemical composition of a byproduct, a sample needs to be sent to a certified laboratory for nutrient analysis (Steward, L.). When buying a byproduct feed, it is important to look at dry matter percentage in the feed since this will allow us to accurately measure the concentration of nutrients. Another important aspect to consider is to know how available the nutrients are to the animal’s digestive system for absorption, which can be solved by doing an analysis report (Yang, K). The analysis report would provide you with the information needed to accurately formulate a diet using the byproduct, and this will allow

The Carolina Cattle Connection q DECEMBER 2023

you to judge if it meets all the nutritional requirements of your herd. Another aspect to keep in mind is whether every animal that will have access to this feed is at the same stage of production. Do you need to make adjustments to how you feed your herd to meet everyone’s nutritional requirements? From the analysis report and extension specialists, the producer can calculate if the cow can eat enough of the byproduct to meet its nutritional requirements or whether it would need to be supplemented.

Challenges that arise when purchasing byproducts are anti-nutritional ingredients, risk of disease due to how the byproduct was processed, how the concentration of certain nutrients can lead to negative side effects, and how to properly store the byproduct (Yang, K.), (Steward, L.). Anti-nutritional ingredients are compounds present in the feed that reduce the ability of the digestive system of the animal to effectively breakdown the feed into nutrients that can be absorbed and utilized by the body. If high concentrations of anti-nutritional ingredients are present, then the animal won’t be able to have access to these nutrients, which in turn will lead to poor overall health (Yang, K.). The risk of disease by the processing plant can happen if the processing plant does not achieve sterilization, meaning that the pathogen present in the feed was not removed, leading to the spread of a pathogen to your herd. High concentration of certain nutrients can affect absorption, which is why it is important to keep accurate records of concentrations to avoid having negative effects on the herd. One aspect that sometimes gets overlooked is the cost of properly storing the byproduct feed, which, if not properly stored, will spoil, causing loss of income. It is important to know how the byproduct feed that you are purchasing needs to be stored,

fed, and handled to prevent waste of feed.

In conclusion, byproduct feeds can help reduce feed costs by still meeting the nutrient requirements of the animal but in smaller quantities. Since byproducts are usually higher in concentrations like fiber or protein, this reduces the quantities of feed needed, allowing for more flexibility of income for other management practices. Another aspect is that the feed is less expensive since it is not in competition for the same resources for human consumption. Even though it does provide lots of benefits, it is important to take into account the challenges of using byproduct feeds and deciding if they meet the needs of your farm.

References USDA ERS. “Beef cattle producers face higher input costs, with feed prices up 16 percent since” (2021) www.ers.usda.gov.

Poore, M.H. “Invited review: Use of byproduct feeds in southeastern U.S. beef production systems.” Applied Animal Science (2022) www.sciencedirect.com.

UNL Beef. “Using byproduct feeds in cow/calf programs. www.beef.unl.edu.

Stewart, L., Ely, L.O., & Hancock, D.W. “Considerations for using byproduct feeds.”University of Georgia Extension (2009) www.extension.uga.edu.

Yang, K., Qing, Y., Yu, Q., Tang, X., Chen, G., Fang, R., & Liu, H. “Byproduct Feeds: Current Understanding and Future Perspectives.” Agriculture (2021) http:// dx.doi.org/10.3390/agriculture11030207.

Have You Herd article written as a portion of ANS 402 Beef Management course requirement at NCSU Department of Animal Science under the instruction of Dr. Carrie Pickworth. The opinions of Viviana Ponce are not necessarily those of N.C. State University or Dr. Pickworth.

Table 1: Chemical Composition of Byproduct Feeds

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Cattlemen’s Beef Board Update

By PATTY WOOD, Cattlemen’s Beef Board

Beef Checkoff Funded Educator Program Helps Cultivate New Generation of Informed Consumers My husband Pat and I own and operate a cow/calf operation and produce diversified row crops near LaMonte, Missouri. However, as much as I enjoy farming, my true passion is education.

I was a teacher for 32 years, working in pre-K and elementary classrooms and assisting students as a library media specialist and technology coordinator.

Now, as a member of the Cattlemen’s Beef Board and the Consumer Trust Committee, I’m finding new ways to enjoy “teachable moments” – spontaneous opportunities to answer questions and engage producers and consumers in conversations about the Beef Checkoff and the programs it funds to drive beef demand. One program that particularly resonates with me as a former educator is managed by the American Farm Bureau Foundation for Agriculture (AFBFA), a contractor to the Beef Checkoff.

AFBFA brings agriculture back into the classroom with its “On The Farm” STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) program. This program shares the realities of farm life and food production through a variety of resources, along with in-person teacher farm and ranch tours. STEM educators get an annual, immersive professional development experience that combines food and agriculture with science education. Then, they take what they’ve learned back to their students, exponentially broadening the program’s reach.

Why does this program matter?

Because far fewer schoolchildren today are exposed to agriculture, they often don’t understand where their food comes from. I used to experience that every fall when I’d bring corn stalks with ears attached to my classroom for a door display. Many students – even in an agriculture rich state like Missouri – wanted to know how I “made that corn” because it didn’t look like the corn that was a part of last Sunday’s dinner. I was able to explain why field corn looks different from sweet corn and how beef

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producers harvest and use it. However, in urban areas, teachers usually don’t have an agricultural background, which is why sharing the farming experience with them is so important.

The twelfth and most recent On The Farm in-person tour took place in June when 29 teachers and school administrators from across the country representing 70,000 students traveled to Colorado for an event hosted by the Colorado Beef Council. Participants visited with experts from across the cattle industry to better understand how to integrate animal agriculture into their STEM classrooms back home.

Day One included learning about elements of cattle feed. Attendees also began developing their own lesson plans centered around the involvement of STEM in the beef cattle life cycle. On Day Two, attendees toured Colorado State University’s AgNext research facility to learn about methane measurement and how researchers observe and research cannulated cows. In addition to the inperson tours, this program included two pre-tour webinars that led up to the multiday, in-the-field, immersive experience, one post tour webinar, and a structured professional development community.

Previous On The Farm STEM tours have taken place in Portland, Ore.; Oklahoma City, Okla.; Los Angeles, Calif.; Nashville, Tenn.; Minneapolis, Minn.; Fort Worth, Tex.; Philadelphia, Penn.; Syracuse, N.Y.; Kansas City, Mo.; and Boston, Mass., providing different agricultural perspectives from around the country.

AFBFA’s efforts go beyond the On The Farm tours. They work with teachers across the country to integrate Checkoff funded elementary, middle, and high school beef curriculums into their lesson plans in multiple ways, like offering free resources, virtual workshops, and so much more. By offering these well rounded, immersive programs, the Beef Checkoff is giving hundreds of educators the knowledge and tools to effectively introduce students to beef production, and

The Carolina Cattle Connection q DECEMBER 2023

the care and commitment beef producers dedicate to their herds.

Connecting agriculture with science helps these STEM educators foster a new generation of consumers who are better informed about beef and beef production.

That’s incredibly important in today’s

world, where so much misinformation about agriculture and beef production exists. As a producer and an educator, I want consumers to better understand agriculture’s remarkable impact on us all – and the Beef Checkoff is helping make that happen.

StayWILD ‘23 — A WILD Weekend to Remember What a WILD weekend it was in North Carolina! On November 4, Wilders Wagyu hosted their inaugural StayWILD fullblood Wagyu production sale. Overflowing with gratitude for the incredible support and enthusiasm that everyone brought to StayWILD ‘23, the team was thrilled to reunite with old friends and build upon numerous new relationships, transforming the weekend into an unforgettable chapter in their WILD journey.

To kick off the WILD weekend in style, one of the Wilders pastures was transformed into the venue for WILDFest ‘23, featuring a private concert by country music artist Kameron Marlowe. It was a night of music, laughter, and camaraderie as many friends, family members, and visitors of the Wilders team came to celebrate the weekend. Chef Keith Rhodes from Catch Restaurant in Wilmington joined them to prepare an amazing dinner highlighting their very own Wilders Wagyu beef. With cold drinks in hand, great music, and the chance to connect with fellow breeders, the event can only be described as Southern hospitality at its finest.

Before the concert began, however, a heartwarming gesture unfolded on the farm. At Wilders Wagyu, it is their mission to impact and develop people, and they make it a priority to serve their community. So, to kick off the sale, a donation lot consisting of four fullblood Wagyu embryos was put up for auction, with the proceeds going to support the local nonprofit organization, OneCompassion. The attendees demonstrated their generous spirits, and Corey Alsobrook from Texas purchased the donation at an impressive price of $1,900 per embryo. Wilders Wagyu founders Reid and Jaclyn Smith matched Mr. Alsobrook’s donation purchase, resulting in over $15,000 raised for OneCompassion.

The excitement carried over into Sale Day, which began early the following morning. StayWILD ‘23 opened its doors to more than 150 attendees at the farm, with an additional 100 plus viewers tuning in online from around the world. The results of the sale left the entire Wilders team humbled and awestruck, a testament to the incredible support they received from all those who participated.

By the close of the afternoon, all 62 lots had found new homes, with an astounding 89 percent of these sales taking place in-person on the floor in Turkey, North Carolina. There are 12 lots staying in the Carolinas. Still, the impact of their WILD fullblood Wagyu genetics is set to reach a national and global scale as they embark on journeys to ten different states, Canada, and even as far as Australia.

Highlighting the remarkable sales figures, the average fullblood Wagyu heifer commanded an impressive $14,000. The highest selling fullblood Wagyu bull of the day, WILD NOTORIOUS 60K (A.I.), found a new owner in Corey Alsobrook for a notable $25,000. However, the standout of the sale was undoubtedly the heifer WILD MS MICHIFUKU 69K (A.I.), which fetched an astonishing $95,000, making it the crowning achievement of the event and a testament to the incredible potential within the WILD herd.

Although StayWILD’23 is complete, work is not yet over. The WILD team says they are excited about the programs that invested in their genetics and can hardly wait to work with the producers to impact and develop the growing Wagyu industry. They are incredibly thankful for all the friendships that have been made throughout this entire process and cannot express their gratitude enough to all those who came to the sale. What a WILD weekend it was, through and through.

Scenes from WILDFest & STAYWild‘23

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Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!

May you, your family, and businesses be blessed this season!

To advertise here, contact Myron McCoy ncherefordassociation@gmail.com

4B FARMS, LLC

Shelby, NC Bryson Westbrook Ed Soto (Manager) 980-230-4868 - Bryson 704-974-1407 - Ed brysonw@thewestbrookco.com

BLINSON POLLED HEREFORDS

Lenoir, NC Keith & Peggy Blinson - 828-310-4526 Bryan & Beth Blinson - 919-422-9108

DOUBLE J FARM

Traphill, NC • Earlysville, VA John Wheeler 910-489-0024 doublejfarmllc@yahoo.com www.doublejfarmllc.com

E. CARROLL JOYNER BEEF UNIT Raleigh, NC Matt Morrison 716-720-0227

FIVE J’S BEEF & CATTLE COMPANY Clayton, NC Jody & Angela Standley Kim Prestwood (Manager) 828-320-7317 - Kim jodystandley@gmail.com

HEREFORD HILLS

Greensboro, NC Bill Kirkman III 336-382-9635 ST Genetics Representative

LOOKABILL FAMILY LIVESTOCK

Lexington, NC Reggie, Patty, Tyler & Noah Lookabill 336-240-2142 rlookabill6015@gmail.com

McCOY CATTLE FARM Cove City, NC Myron & Charlie McCoy 252-229-4602 mccoycattlefarms@gmail.com

Register for the 72 N.C. Cattle Conference nd

February 23-24, 2024 Hickory, NC

MITCHEM’S FARM 3C

QUAIL RIDGE FARM

NORTH PINO LAND & CATTLE COMPANY

TAYLOR’S MILL FARM

Vale, NC Wayne, Crystal, Regan & Jordan Mitchem 704-472-4369 mitchemsfarm@bellsouth.net

Mocksville, NC Kevin Robinson 336-940-2547 kevrob1@aol.com

Rutherfordton, NC Mark Brewer 828-329-2074 markbrewer65@gmail.com Zebulon, NC J. Brent Creech 919-801-7561 tmfherefords@icloud.com

TERRACE FARM

LOVE FARMS

Lexington, NC Jim, Linda & Chad Davis 336-247-1554 jgdavis101@yahoo.com

P and J FARMS

TRIPLETT POLLED HEREFORDS

Blowing Rock, NC Jim Love 828-266-1458 cell • 828-295-4236 Monroe, NC Andy Smith 704-400-3436 pandjfarmsherefords@gmail.com

PRESTWOOD BEEF CATTLE Lenoir, NC Kim & Lori Prestwood 828-320-7317 - Kim 828-432-7434 - Lori brownloriclyde@yahoo

Statesville, NC James Triplett 704-902-2250 triplettmarble@bellsouth.net

W&A HEREFORD FARM

Providence, NC George, Tammy, William, & Andy Ward 434-251-3637 gwwardjr@comcast.net

WILL-VIA POLLED HEREFORDS Check out the

North Carolina Hereford Advantage at

www.nchereford.com

PAGE 26

The Carolina Cattle Connection q DECEMBER 2023

Myron McCoy

N.C. Hereford Association Secretary/Treasurer

252-637-4995 ncherefordassociation@gmail.com www.nchereford.com

Mooresville NC Lavette Teeter 704-662-5262

News Bar One Ranch Scholarship Awarded to Mitchem. Regan Mitchem of Vale, N.C., was awarded the Bar One Ranch Scholarship during the 2023 American Hereford Association (AHA) Annual Meeting and Conference in Kansas City, Mo., on October 20. In a special awards ceremony, the Hereford Youth Foundation of America (HYFA) and its donors proudly awarded $163,000 in scholarships to 27 National Junior Hereford Association (NJHA) members to help support their higher education goals.

Mitchem is a first year student at the N.C. State University College of Veterinary Medicine. She credits the NJHA and her own N.C. Junior Hereford Association for pushing her outside of her comfort zone and encouraging her to create connections across the country.

She plans to focus her career efforts after graduation in rural areas and agriculture.

“There is a nationwide shortage of food animal veterinarians,” Mitchem says.”What better way to give back to the industry that I love than to provide veterinary services to areas in need?”

The Bar One Ranch Scholarship, sponsored by HYFA, is a $5,000 scholarship offered by George and Karen Sprague of Bar One Ranch in Oregon.

The scholarship is in memory of their late friend, Ken Tracy, who was a friend to the entire Hereford breed.

“The foundation takes great pride in our scholarship program and the opportunities we are able to provide to assist our young people throughout their college journeys,” says Amy Cowan, AHA’s director of youth activities and foundation. “The selection committee continues to be impressed by the high caliber of applicants and are confident that today’s NJHA members will be tomorrow’s leaders in whatever industry

they pursue.”

The scholarship fund is the bedrock of HYFA, and countless youth are benefactors of its mission. This last fiscal year, the foundation celebrated net assets reaching more than $6.3 million and in total $221,500 was given back to Hereford youth to assist with their college educations.

About the Hereford Youth Foundation of America. The Hereford Youth Foundation of America (HYFA)

was established in 1986 and is a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) corporation dedicated exclusively to scholarship and educational support of youth in the business of raising Hereford cattle. The mission of the Hereford Youth Foundation of America is to encourage, recognize, and reward the development of life skills and values in the next generation of leaders by providing education, scholarship, and leadership opportunities for Hereford Youth.

HYFA board members George Sprague and Ray Ramsey join Regan Mitchem to recognize her for receiving this prestigious scholarship.

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FORAGE NEWS

By ALLEN R. WILLIAMS, Ph.D., Understanding Ag, LLC

Top Ten Grazing Tips for 2024 - Part 1 The time to start preparing for the 2024 grazing season is now. Waiting until next year will be too late. Grazing season initiation varies in different parts of the country, but regardless of when your grazing season begins, here are my top ten tips for grazing success in 2024.

Tip # 1: Do not start spring grazing too early - After the winter, people are anxious to get livestock turned onto pasture. But grazing young, tender

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growth can set back your entire grazing season and limit total biomass production.

Feed or stockpile graze a little longer to achieve adequate growth. Perennial pastures should have at least eight inches of growth.

Tip #2: Hope for the Best. Prepare for the Worst - Prepare your annual grazing plan expecting challenging conditions. You may be drier than normal, wetter than normal, hotter or cooler than

The Carolina Cattle Connection q DECEMBER 2023

Typical overgrazed pasture.

normal. If these events happen, how would that impact the way you graze?

Stock to your worst anticipated conditions and be prepared to destock as needed. Forced destocking almost always results in an economic loss. Not destocking could cost you even more.

Have a plan in place so that you will not sell into a declining market.

Tip #3: Do Not Overgraze - The most common mistake grazers make is to overgraze. The best way to prevent this is frequent movement. Not moving often enough is a big mistake. This takes careful observation to know when to move.

Tip #4: Don’t Sweat the Weeds We worry far too much about “weeds” in our pastures. If our livestock will eat

it - and they will eat far more plants than we think - it is not a weed but a forage.

Weeds are growing there for a reason.

We created that reason. Many weeds are medicinal and anti-parasitic in nature.

When our livestock eat those weeds, they are self medicating and self deworming.

Tip #5: Protect the Soil. Always - Do not allow soil to become exposed.

This typically happens when we overgraze or allow patchy grazing to occur. Exposed soil is rarely a good thing.

It is far too easy for soil temperature to hit 130ºF or higher.

This is part 1 of a 2 part series featuring grazing tips from nationally known Allen Williams. If you are not familiar with Allen Williams, he is a 6th generation family farmer and a pioneer of the regenerative agriculture movement.

He will be the featured speaker at the 2024 N.C. Forage & Grasslands Council Winter Conference on February 22 in Hickory, North Carolina.

Be a winner!

Join your local cattlemen’s association AND your state cattlemen’s association!

Soil temperature contrast in neighboring pastures – 153.8ºF vs 75.3ºF.

BILTMORELIVESTOCK.COM

Thank you to everyone who came out to our inaugural sale!

We hope to see you at next year’s sale on SEPTEMBER 28, 2024!

Bred to perform, Biltmore Angus represents a livestock legacy more than a century in the making.

Contact Kyle Mayberry 828-768-1956 • livestock@biltmore.com

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ANGUS NEWS Angus enthusiasts experience Angus Convention. Cattlemen gather in Orlando, Fla., for tours, education, and networking. For the first time ever, the American Angus Association headed to the Southeast for its annual Angus Convention, held in Orlando, Fla., on November 3-6. The event attracted over 1,100 registrants along with an expansive trade show, providing engaging experiences for attendees.

“It’s so great to get the Angus family back together,” said Mark McCully, Association chief executive officer.

“Innovation starts with people, and people who come to this conference are people who are innovators in the business. Our hope is that we provided relevant and meaningful insights to our members, all while enjoying Angus fellowship.”

Each day offered a variety of opportunities for attendees to gain

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knowledge and catch up with friends, old and new. Many took advantage of tours offered, including the National Angus Tour to Deseret Ranch and Kempfer Cattle Company, Beef Blitz hosted

by Certified Angus Beef (CAB), and Kennedy Space Center. The weekend officially commenced on Friday evening with the trade show grand opening and welcome reception, featuring Certified Angus Beef brand hors d’oeuvres and lively conversation.

General Sessions - The main stage hosted three general sessions designed to inform attendees about the latest changes in the industry. At the opening session, “Innovation: Start with the End in Mind,” attendees heard from McCully and John Stika, CAB president, looking together from the seedstock producer to the retailer and how innovations at every level help drive demand.

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“We’re here to create an economic pull that ultimately allows you as the membership of the American Angus Association to get more for what you do, so that you can pass your farm or ranch on to the next generation and continue that legacy moving forward,” Stika said.

“We will continue to innovate. We’ll continue to work, and we’ll continue to strive to deliver on this brand’s mission: to increase demand and value for your registered Angus cattle.”

General session two, sponsored

by Neogen, highlighted innovations in genomics, featuring a trio of trailblazers in the genetic fields of beef cattle, aquaculture, and human fertility: Kelli Retallick-Riley, president, Angus Genetics Inc.; Debbie Plouffe, vice president of business development with the Center for Aquaculture Technologies; and Kristin Brogaard, co-founder and chief strategy officer with Inherent Biosciences. These speakers defined the nuances of their current research while also drawing similarities between each of their industries.

“If you find the traits that are both interesting for the consumers and the producers, that’s where you’re going to be most successful,” Plouffe said.

The third general session shared perspectives from the leaders of each Association entity. Kelli Retallick-Riley, AGI; Jaclyn Boester, Angus Foundation; Stika, CAB; and Clay Zwilling, Angus Media, joined McCully to discuss current and upcoming innovations happening at Angus.

“As breeders and leaders in this industry, we want to make sure as your organization we’re right there alongside – and at times helping maybe even find some new places to go – to continue to grow and be successful as a breed,” McCully said. “At the end of the day, this is about your success.”

Education - There was no shortage of educational opportunities in Orlando.

The weekend featured “AAA Q&A” sessions, which allowed attendees to get their frequently asked questions answered

by Association staff. Learning Lounges hosted by several trade show vendors discussed topics ranging from breeding to nutrition.

As part of the “Raised with Respect” campaign, CAB hosted a Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) training on November 4, which was attended by nearly 100 Angus breeders. This certification also earned them an invitation to CAB’s

BQA Bash that evening. At the bash, convention attendees with a BQA certification celebrated the hard work happening on their ranches and their dedication to building consumer trust.

Angus University sessions catered to attendees’ interests throughout the event.

The Capturing Value session included a panel of perspectives from the seedstock, feeder, and marketing sectors on how commercial cattlemen can best claim their competitive edge in the marketplace and capture value on the investments they have made in registered Angus genetics.

“We definitely are data driven, but we also try to be very tuned in to what our customers need from us and what we need to do to help facilitate them being profitable,” said Lydia Yon of Yon Family Farms and one of the session’s panelists.

S u n d a y ’s A n g u s U n i v e r s i t y workshops offered four tracks designed to target a variety of interests: the Angus Media Marketing Summit, Beef Industry Insights, Caring for Your Herd, and All Things Angus. Each track featured three sessions, allowing attendees to immerse themselves in one topic or attend a range of informational sessions.

Grand Prize Giveaways - The Grand Prize Giveaways are always a source of excitement, and they offered the chance for three attendees to win big at the Angus Convention.

Adam Sawyer of Bassett, Neb., took home the Priefert and Datamars complete cattle handling system. The corral features a solid sweep with a straight, adjustable working alley, leading to a Priefert Model S04 Squeeze Chute. The set up is completed by a TruTest by Datamars complete weight and water management solution, electronic identification reader, and WaterWell 2 automatic waterer.

Kenny Hinkle of Nevada, Mo., was the winner of the John Deere XUV835M Gator, which features a three person cock pit, power steering, 54 HP, 2,000 lb. towing capacity, 1,000 lb. cargo box capacity, and speeds up to 45 MPH. Finally, Marcia Bryant of Monkton, Md., won a Trans Ova Service Voucher, which helps cover one Genetic Preservation, an IVF cycle, and up to five fresh implants into Trans Ova or client recipients and more.

American Angus Association Awards Dinner and Reception - The Association’s Awards Dinner and Reception recognized numerous honorees for notable achievements within the breed. The Angus Heritage Foundation inducted Phil and Ruth Abrahamson of Lanesboro, Minn.; Jerry and Sharon Connealy of Whitman, Neb.; Ben and Darla Eggers of Mexico, Mo.; and the late

Doug Parrett of Champaign, Illinois.

Three operations were recognized for 100 years in the Angus breed with the Century Award: Miller Angus Farm in Estelline, S.D.; Mike Sitz Angus Ranch in Burwell, Neb.; and Williams Angus in Gray, Tennessee.

Awarded the Roll of Victory Show Heifer of the Year was Conley FRKG Queen Meg 1085, owned by Houston Ferree of Sullivan, Indiana. Conley Ransom 1810, owned by Case Conley of Sulphur, Okla., was named the ROV Show Bull of the Year. The ROV Breeder of the Year was Express Ranches in Yukon, Oklahoma.

As the 2023 Sire of the Year, Deer Valley Growth Fund, owned by Deer Valley Farm in Fayetteville, Tenn., was recognized with 5,006 total registrations.

Two new awards were introduced this year. Anne Lampe of Scott City, Kan., was recognized as the inaugural Angus Ambassador of the Year recipient.

John McCurry of Hutchinson, Kan., earned the first ever Young Breeder of the Year award.

Recipients of the 2024 CAB Producer Awards were recognized at the event as well. The Seedstock Commitment to Excellence Award recipient was Benoit Angus Ranch in Esbon, Kan.; the Ambassador Award recipient was Seldom Rest Farms in Niles, Mich.; and the Progressive Partner recipient was Dakota Angus of North Dakota.

Breeders supported the Angus Foundation as it auctioned two limited edition silk scarves from the 150 th Celebration Scarf collections. The auction featured Spring Edition Scarf #150 and Fall Edition Scarf #1. In total, the scarves raised $13,400 to support the Foundation’s mission thanks to generous buyers Dr. Curtis and the late Anne Long of Briarwood Angus Farm in Butler, Mo., along with Circle M Farms LLC in Rockwall, Texas.

The evening concluded with the highly anticipated crowning of the 2024 Miss American Angus. Lauren Wolter of Aviston, Ill., will spend her term serving and supporting the Association at shows and events across the country.

140 th Annual Convention of Delegates - The 140th Annual Convention of Delegates on November 6 capped off the event. Five members were re-elected to the board of directors for a second term.

They are Mark Ahearn of Wills Point, Tex.; Smitty Lamb of Tifton, Ga.; Charles Mogck of Olivet, S.D.; Darrell Stevenson of White Sulphur Springs, Mont.; and

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Angus News continued from the previous page Jerry Theis of Leavenworth, Kansas. The officers of the board were also elected.

Elected officers are Barry Pollard of Enid, Okla., president and chairman of the board, and Jonathan Perry of Fayetteville, Tenn., vice president and vice chairman of the board. Jim Brinkley of Milan, Mo., will serve as the treasurer for the 2023 to 2024 term.

To hear more perspectives from the Angus Convention, listen to The Angus Conversation podcast at www. angusjournal.net/theangusconversation.

The 2024 Angus Convention will be held November 1-4 in Fort Worth, Texas.

American Angus Association concludes a strong fiscal year. Signals in 2023 show strong demand for Angus cattle, beef product. The American Angus Association concluded a successful fiscal year filled with industry leading advances, reflection on the breed’s U.S. history, and camaraderie among its membership. As a whole, 2023 marked the ninth consecutive year of more than 300,000 registrations, with an additional 138,377 transfers.

Regular and junior memberships totaled 21,981.

“This year is a milestone year for the breed, being the 150th anniversary of Angus cattle arriving in America,” said Mark McCully, chief executive officer of the Association. “All those years later, Angus cattle and cattlemen are thriving, and we are encouraged by our strong year.”

With the 150th anniversary of Angus cattle in the United States also comes the 140th anniversary of the Association. Its

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subsidiaries, Angus Genetics Inc. (AGI), Angus Media, Certified Angus Beef, and the Angus Foundation, also celebrated the kickoff or completion of major projects.

AGI continued to put itself at the forefront of its field, helping breeders achieve their goals and serving as a trusted industry source for advanced genetics solutions. In October, the Functional Longevity research EPD was released in an ongoing effort to improve the long term success and profitability of herds.

Also that month, AGI was recognized on an international scale for its work on the World Angus Evaluation and its successful release. In another effort for continued improvement, AGI processed an increased number of more than 200,000 genomic samples on behalf of the membership and saw a 4.7 percent increase in profile tests.

With 206,956 additional genomic profiles now available for genetic evaluation, AGI plans to continue the momentum in the new fiscal year.

Angus Media recently welcomed Clay Zwilling as its new president. In the early months of his leadership, the Angus Journal ended the year with 13,000 subscriptions and the Angus Beef Bulletin has 65,000 readers. Throughout the year, they also developed 509 sale books and 201 brochures. The Angus Media team continues to develop and enhance their products and publications – both for print and the digital landscape – while remaining at the top of their field.

Celebrating a 45 year anniversary, Certified Angus Beef sold 1.227 billion

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pounds of its branded beef with 18,000 licensed partners worldwide in more than 50 countries. Overcoming tight cattle supplies and record high prices, McCully said the brand continues to deliver on a promise of premium quality to consumers around the world.

During the fiscal year, the Angus family continued to pour their support into the Angus Foundation’s mission of education, youth, and research. This year, 138 scholarships, totaling $350,625, were awarded to youth across the nation.

Campaign initiatives including “A Legacy Built” and “Fund the Future” contributed to a total of $1.279 million in donations from more than 700 donors – 227 of which were new donors. The impact of these dollars will be felt for generations.

As the value of Angus cattle continues to rise, The Association has continued its Powered by Angus advertising campaign. Combatting “black hided confusion,” the campaign illustrates the confidence cattlemen can put in the power of EPD data, documented pedigrees, and marketing programs with the purchase of registered Angus.

Another nod to the power of verified genetics came as AngusLink value added programs experienced tremendous growth. After beginning its partnership with IMI Global, year end enrollments reached 165,428 head of cattle with $17.8 million in premiums paid to producers this fiscal year.

To view the 2023 Angus Annual Report and to view the Association’s

complete financial report, visit https://bit. ly/AngusAR23.

Angus Genetics, Inc. releases Functional Longevity research EPD. Now available in a research EPD format, functional longevity (FL) evaluates how long Angus cows stay in the herd and how many calves they produce. The Functional Longevity (FL) research expected progeny difference (EPD) was released by the American Angus Association for breeders on October 25. The trait’s purpose is to help further characterize relevant maternal traits, which aim to increase the long term success of breeders and profitability of cow/calf herds.

The Angus Genetics Inc (AGI) research team, which conducts the breed’s development of EPDs, leveraged the dataset from Angus Herd Improvement Records (AHIR) Inventory Reporting as a base for FL. “I want to applaud the membership, because those data submissions on those traits that we needed have really ramped up,” said Smitty Lamb, Association board of directors’ member and AGI board chairman. “You’ve allowed us to provide this tool.”

At its most basic, functional longevity looks at not only how long a sire’s daughters will stay in the herd, but also how many calves they will produce during their lifetime. The unit of the trait is the number of calves produced by six years of age, with a higher EPD meaning on average sires’ daughters are predicted to produce more calves by six years of age, compared to a lower EPD. Kelli Retallick-Riley, president of AGI, said she and her team are eager to observe how well the FL research EPD aligns with expectations.

“We know members have been out there breeding cattle for generations upon generations, so their feedback will be important to hear as we continue to make this tool the best it can be,” she said.

Brady Larson of Larson Angus Ranch in Sharon Springs, Kan., said he has been looking forward to analyzing the initial research EPD results. He is enrolled in Inventory Reporting, and his herd gained MaternalPlus recognition.

For his efforts, he and others enrolled in Inventory Reporting have first access to the FL research EPD. “We can learn from it and have better selection criteria in the future,” he said. “I’m glad that a lot of these maternal issues are getting looked at, and I’m more than happy to keep turning in as much data as I can through MaternalPlus to help.”

A research EPD is a prelude to a

production EPD. A research EPD does not get updated weekly but can be updated periodically as more data flows into the database. Once more data is collected, the evaluation will become even more robust, and the research EPD can be moved to production.

Andre Garcia, a geneticist with AGI, said one difficulty with the FL EPD model was accommodating and using as much breeder collected data as possible without sacrificing EPD accuracy. The low heritability of the trait also presents modeling challenges.

“Some people may ask, ‘Heritability is low, so what’s the point?’ but there is a point,” Garcia said. “You’re not going to make genetic progress as fast. However, as soon as you start, the more progress you can accumulate over time.”

He encourages producers who aren’t participating in Inventory Reporting already to submit their data. This helps ensure accurate EPDs across the board and contributes to the fine tuning of FL in its initial research state and the production stage in the future. Garcia said genetic correlations between functional longevity and other traits are of interest and will be explored in future research, especially as more and more data is collected.

Larson admits it is a challenge to account for each animal and collect every recommended data point. Regardless, he will continue to submit data and utilize EPD tools as they are developed because he said he wants to be part of the solution for opportunities he sees.

“On the cow side of it, there’s so much more that goes into it that needs studied and applied,” Larson said. “I want to make the best cow that I can that will last a long time.”

As a research EPD, FL will not be incorporated into the maternal weaned calf value ($M). Current research is ongoing to learn more about how the EPD could potentially play in $M when FL moves to a production stage in the future.

The research report for the FL research EPD is available at www. angus.org/performance/documents/ FunctionalLongevityResearchReport.pdf.

Panelists talk capturing value during Angus Convention. An Angus University session on marketing cattle brings together seedstock producers, commercial cattlemen, and industry representatives. It’s easy to get stuck in the mindset of, “Well, that’s how we’ve always done it.” Fortunately, change and innovation run aplenty in the cattle business.

In November, the 2023 Angus Convention’s educational program highlighted innovations in the beef cattle industry and gave producers a chance to

talk about challenges and opportunities they see in the future.

One session, the Capturing Value panel, discussed marketing strategies for cattlemen who run cow/calf and seedstock operations and how they can work together to increase profitability.

Four uniquely qualified panelists – Travis Mitchell with Clemson University’s Cooperative Extension Service, S.C. Cattlemen’s Association and Mitchell Farms; Lydia Yon, Yon Family Farms; Tracy Woods, 44 Farms; and Doug Stanton, IMI Global – encouraged producers to take advantage of value added programs and to stay informed about industry trends and opportunities.

Together, they represented a variety of experiences and marketing strategies, having worked with producers from across the U.S. – whether selling at local livestock auctions or large video sales – and of varied herd sizes.

From a seedstock perspective, Woods and Yon talked about how they try to help their customers find success marketing their cattle. About half of the session’s audience self identified as seedstock producers.

“We definitely are data driven, but we also try to be very tuned in to what our customers need from us and what we need to do to help facilitate them being profitable,” Yon said.

Yon Family Farms, based in Ridge Spring, S.C., hosts two sales a year, selling around 450 bulls annually. She said herd sizes in the Southeast present another challenge – trying to stay competitive even when producers are not able to sell cattle as load lots on their own.

Yon and Mitchell work together to do this, being in the same county (Saluda County, South Carolina). Mitchell provides presentations for local producers to discuss marketing options they have and how to make the most of the value they have created.

“With Extension, I’m in the relationship business,” he said. “I serve a lot of time throughout the day and the week of being a liaison between the seedstock producer and the commercial cattlemen or between the commercial cattlemen and the verification agency — however that might look.”

For around ten years, Mitchell has helped organize sales at his local livestock auction twice annually for farmers and ranchers working together to make uniform load lots. This is done in coordination with his county’s cattlemen’s association.

“They’re doing a good job of going out, making the right genetic selections, and we want to make sure that they’re getting paid for that,” Mitchell said.

Additionally, they have implemented uniform vaccination protocols and G.A.P. Certification (Global Animal Partnership Certification) for the cattle included in the sales. With some of these sellers using genetics from Yon Family Farms, Yon shared the impacts she has seen for their customers.

“They might’ve had only two or three people bidding on their calves competitively when they sold them,” Yon said. “Now that they can have those tags [and value added programs] on their lots when they sell them, they might have five or six people bidding, and you all know what that does.”

Mitchell estimates 25 percent of the producers involved in the sales receive carcass data back from buyers, and that percentage has been growing.

Woods was also asked about the impact of carcass data during the panel.

He works as the chief genetics officer for 44 Farms in Cameron, Texas. In that role, he helps build supply chains that focus on meeting consumers’ demands for high quality meat.

He shared what carcass data does for producers wanting to capture more value.

“I think 90 percent of the people that we give the carcass data back to, really, they want to make it better for both parties,” Woods said. “They obviously want to wean more weight. They want you to buy a heavier calf, but they want an end product that everybody is going to want and that’s Certified Angus Beef (brand).”

On the panel, Stanton talked about the types of verification services IMI Global provides and what those resources can do within the current cattle market.

“We’ve seen record prices and really good prices on the calves and the yearlings compared to a year ago,” he said. “We expect that to continue for the next 2-3 years. We have been a little pleasantly surprised by the fact that premiums in the marketplace have been at or above the base price of what they were over the last couple of years.”

IMI Global is an agricultural and

The Carolina Cattle Connection

food verification and certification company. Stanton helps manage beef verification programs like Age and Source, AngusLink value added programs, NHTC claims, and others.

“Third party verification is essential for validation of whatever trait it is,” he said. “You have a little more money in your pocket, and it’s a good time to try [value added programs], because we feel like the premiums are still going to be there in the marketplace.”

Woods echoes this, saying many producers are already doing the work needed to qualify for programs, and getting paid for added value in their cattle is one way to be recognized.

“A lot of people don’t want to be at the top of the totem pole, if you will, but they want to get some recognition for the good things that they’re doing,” he said.

Mitchell knows that a little guidance goes a long way in getting cattlemen through the learning curve with these marketing programs. He adds the curve is often not as steep as they think.

“What I’ve noticed over my Extension career is commercial cattlemen do a great job of raising cattle,” Mitchell said. “They do a great job of taking care of calves, weaning, vaccinations, spending their money on the right genetics, but they lack sometimes in making sure that they’re marketing those cattle.”

“As a commercial cattle producer, take responsibility in marketing your cattle and reach out and use these resources that are available to you,” he told the audience.

Angus Means Business. The American Angus Association is the nation’s largest beef breed organization, serving nearly 22,000 members across the United States, Canada, and several other countries. The Association provides programs and services to farmers, ranchers, and others who rely on Angus to produce quality genetics for the beef industry and quality beef for consumers.

For more information about Angus cattle and the Association, visit www.angus.org.

q DECEMBER 2023

PAGE 35

Certified Angus Beef News Drought Impact and Cattle Industry Dynamics. CattleFax CEO Randy Blach shares insight on the beef industry’s current state amid the challenges posed by drought. As drought conditions persist across much of cattle country, farmers and ranchers are at a pivotal juncture in the cattle industry’s landscape. What impact does this prolonged dry spell have on the nation’s herd numbers? When will heifer retention begin? How will industry dynamics influence the spring bull sale season?

Heavy on the minds of those in the cattle business, there is no crystal ball.

But there are historical patterns and data to help make decisions today.

Randy Blach, CEO of CattleFax, gave a comprehensive update on the

ongoing drought’s impact during the 2023 Certified Angus Beef (CAB) Annual Conference in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Drought Influences on Herd Numbers - Cow/calf producers particularly affected by the ongoing drought encompass states like Kansas, Missouri, Oklahoma, Texas, and Arkansas.

“We have seen a change in the weather pattern moving from a La Niña weather pattern to an El Niño,” Blach says. “But our central southern plains region is still struggling with some terribly dry areas, particularly from Kansas, south.”

While there is some herd rebuilding in the central and northern plains, 2023 is still anticipated to be a year marked by

Smith Creek Angus Farm FOR SALE ON FARM Bulls will be available on farm the week following the N.C. BCIP Performance Bull Test Sale in Butner on December 15!

Bulls were on test in Virginia, and have been back in North Carolina since late November.

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT

MARTY ROOKER

SMITH CREEK ANGUS FARM 703 Rooker Dairy Road • Norlina, NC 27563

252-213-1543 • 252-213-1553 mrooker @mrookerlaw.com

PAGE 36

The Carolina Cattle Connection q DECEMBER 2023

herd liquidation. Blach says he expects a surge in heifer retention over the next 1224 months, supporting a strong demand for high quality bulls in the forthcoming spring bull sale season.

Cow/Calf Segment’s Focus on Quality and Profitability - For the commercial cow/calf segment, quality remains paramount despite the high value of feeder cattle. Recent years have witnessed elevated input costs, including hay and grain, driving up production expenses.

According to Blach, due to the drought, most cow/calf producers are forced to only operate at a 60-75 percent stocking rate. However, with the recent decrease in hay and grain prices, it is likely to lower the cost of gain.

“When we look at the grid premiums on what producers are getting paid for, we are going to have the biggest grid premiums in the history of our industry this year,” Blach says.

As reported in March 2022, premiums paid by packers to producers for brand qualifying cattle totaled $182 million annually, or $3.5 million per week. This significant increase in grid premiums further emphasizes the outlook for producers in the beef industry, as they are set to receive record high payments for their cattle.

Increased pressure in the industry looks to establish a more sustainable and profitable environment for cow/calf producers, who have endured several years of limited profitability. Their economic viability is pivotal to ensuring a stable supply chain for the entire cattle industry.

Blach emphasizes the importance of quality genetics.

“The market is going to sort out the best genetics from the ones that are not quite there yet,” he says. “So, I think producers need to understand that the market has become very focused on finding the genetics that will help individual commercial producers hit that final target levels for grid premiums.”

Beef Demand and Retail Prices As the industry navigates these intricate dynamics, there’s another critical component that comes into focus — the redefined landscape of beef demand and its intertwined relationship with retail prices.

“Beef demand remains strong,” he affirms, adding, “And the market wants high quality beef.”

We have seen a slight erosion in sales at high end white tablecloth restaurants, while casual dining and bar-restaurant businesses continue to show strength in sales. This indicates that there is likely some trade down taking place as

consumer budgets are pinched.

At the retail level, there has been an advertising slow down in beef features or weekly specials offered to consumers.

This is largely attributed to retailers’ narrower profit margins resulting from the surge in fed cattle and wholesale market prices.

“As retail margins have been squeezed, it’s being reflected in less ad feature activity,” Blach says. “We see the beef industry has lost 3 percent of the total ad space year-to-date, 1 percent compared to the five year average.”

Remarkable Progress - From past to present, Blach acknowledges the remarkable success of CAB in the past two decades.

“When you go back over time in the ‘80s and ‘90s, it was a flip of the coin for consumers buying a steak on whether it was going to be a good eating experience or a poor one,” he says. “We’re currently not in that same business with quality grade having improved from about 50 percent Choice and Prime to 83 percent Choice and Prime, largely due to leadership from CAB and others in the industry focusing on quality.”

Today, a substantial portion of beef produced falls into the Choice and Prime categories, yielding significant grid premiums for producers.

“CAB is a high quality, tremendous eating experience that people are willing to pay for,” Blach says.

As farmers and ranchers look to a herd rebuild, the importance of genetic decisions and cattle production remains ever important for driving retail beef demand.

Who is Certified Angus Beef? At Certified Angus Beef, we know people want to put great meals on the table. Our employees work across the beef supply chain to ensure chefs and home cooks find and prepare the best Angus beef.

Led by our culinary, beef, and marketing experts, our team provides consultation, marketing materials, training, market insights, and tools that help businesses like grocery stores and restaurants thrive.

Our team is also dedicated to sharing the story of family farmers and ranchers who supply the brand.

ANGUS

NORTHCAROLINAANGUSASSOCIATION

NEWS

By CORTNEY HOLSHOUSER, NCAA Executive Secretary

NCAA Annual Meeting and Banquet Exploring Future Farm Profitability Strategies and Technologies. Angus breeders and cattlemen are invited to the much anticipated NCAA Annual Meeting and Banquet on February 10, 2024, at the Yadkin County Agricultural Center in Yadkinville, North Carolina. Under the theme “Strategies and Technologies for Future Farm Profitability,” this event promises robust opportunities for networking and professional development.

The meeting will feature two educational sessions focusing on crucial topics for contemporary cattle operations. Genomic Selection Tools for Herd Profitability will provide cattlemen with valuable insights into leveraging cutting edge technology for sustainable and profitable herds. Farm Succession Planning Strategies will explore vital strategies for transitioning family farms to future generations, ensuring the viability of farms for years to come.

All Angus breeders and enthusiasts from North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia are cordially invited to participate in this event.

Tentative schedule • 1:00 p.m. - Educational Sessions • 3:00 p.m. - Annual Business Meeting • 4:00 p.m. - Social & Networking Reception • 5:30 p.m. - Award Presentations • 6:00 p.m. - Banquet with Keynote Speaker featuring Certified Angus Beef Early bird registration is now open and can be completed at the official N.C. Angus Association website at www.ncangus.org.

Attendees who register before January 15, 2024, will automatically be entered into a drawing to win an exclusive prize

North Carolina Angus Association ANGUS MEANS BUSINESS Backed by the world’s largest and most reliable genetic evaluation program.

Registered Angus genetics genetics deliver deliver better calving ease, more growth, and superior marbling.

4K FARMS Richard D. Kirkman, DVM Siler City 919-742-5500 • rdkirkman@spectrum.net BACK CREEK Joe & Robin Hampton Mt. Ulla 704-880-2488 (Joe); 704-880-3572 (Robin) robinbackcreek@att.net Facebook: Back Creek Angus

— a brand new MVE XC-20 Signature semen tank generously donated by www. sementanks.com.

This event promises a unique blend of networking, education, and opportunity for Angus breeders and enthusiasts in the Carolinas. The N.C. Angus Annual Meeting and Banquet is the premier platform for learning, sharing ideas, and exploring the latest advancements in the Angus cattle industry in the south.

BILTMORE ESTATE Kyle Mayberry - Manager Asheville 828-768-1956 • livestock@biltmore.com www.biltmorelivestock.com

JACK KNOB FARMS Karl, Janet & Logan Gillespie Franklin 828-371-2220 • karl@jackknobfarms.com www.jackknobfarms.com JENKINS ANGUS FARM Jaime & Christy Jenkins Marshall 828-206-1345 • jenkinsangusfarm@gmail.com KNOLL CREST FARM The Bennett Family Red House,VA 434-376-3567 • knollcrestfarm@knollcrestfarm.com www.knollcrestfarm.com

CARSON FAMILY FARM, LLC John, Callie, Isaac & J.R. Carson Laurel Springs 336-818-9087 • carsonfamilyfarm@gmail.com CHAPMAN CATTLE COMPANY Bryant Chapman Taylorsville 828-514-0526 https://.m.facebook.com/chapmancattleco FOUR S FARMS Kim & Connie and Jason & Robin Starnes Luther Lyerly - Manager Salisbury 704-640-5875 • kim-4sfarms@carolina.rr.com GENTRY HOMEPLACE ANGUS Howard & Donna Gentry King 336-413-6698 • whgentry@windstream.net

For more information about the NCAA Annual Meeting & Banquet, please visit www.ncangus.org or contact NCAA Executive Secretary Cortney Holshouser at ncaa.sec@gmail.com or 919-796-2346.

About N.C. Angus Association. The N.C. Angus Association is a dedicated community of Angus breeders and enthusiasts committed to the promotion and advancement of Angus cattle in North Carolina. Through education, collaboration, and support, the association strives to enhance the quality and sustainability of Angus cattle farming in the region.

GRAGG FARMS Paul, Chris & David Gragg Boone 828-268-4136 (Paul); 828-268-4137 (Chris) 828-268-4135 (David) gragg_farms@hotmail.com H&H FARMS Buddy & Jennifer Hamrick - Owners Bly Hamrick - Manager Boiling Springs 704-472-1912 • jennham@bellsouth.net HI-LO FARMS, LLC William “Monty” & Kate Reichert Fuquay-Varina 919-717-1903 HILL ANGUS FARM Dr. Gary M. Hill Hendersonville 229-848-3695 • gmhill@uga.edu

Cortney Holshouser

NCAA Executive Secretary 919-796-2346 ncaa.sec@gmail.com www.ncangus.org

LANE ANGUS Roger & Bundy Lane Bundy Lane - Manager Gates 252-398-7705 (Bundy); 252-398-7719 (Miranda) 252-357-1279 (Office) bundylane@hughes.net; laneangusbeef@gmail.com www.laneangusbeef.com N.C. State University - E. Carroll Joyner Beef Unit Matt Morrison - Manager Raleigh 716-720-0227 • mdmorri8@ncsu.edu PANTHER CREEK FARMS John C. Smith, Jr. Pink Hill 252-526-1929 • johnsmith3982@embarqmail.com S&J Farms Steven & Julie Lung Nathan Lung - Manager Carthage 910-947-3414 • sandjfarms2013@gmail.com SMITH CREEK ANGUS FARM Marty & Lynne Rooker Norlina 252-213-1553 • mrooker@mrookerlaw.com SPRINGFIELD ANGUS Phil Goodson Louisburg 919-880-9062 • philgoodson2@gmail.com www.springfieldangus.com TRIPLE LLL ANGUS Greg Little Monroe 704-219-1294 • greg.little@atimetals.com VANDEMARK ANGUS Keaton & Janie Vandemark Spring Hope 252-885-0210 • keaton@vandemarkfarms.com WINDY HILL FARMS, LLC Michael A. Moss Will Moss - Manager Ramseur 336-460-7451 • windyhillfarmsllc@gmail.com WINSLOW GENETICS Ben & Kathleen Winslow Halifax 252-578-5487 • bensbulls@gmail.com WOOD ANGUS FARM, LLC Russell Wood Willow Spring 919-275-4397 • rwood4400@gmail.com www.woodangus.com

The Carolina Cattle Connection

q DECEMBER 2023

PAGE 37

THE SIMMENTAL TRAIL

By JENNIE RUCKER Executive Secretary N.C. Simmental Association Carolina Classic Fair Results.

The Carolina Classic Fair was held in Winston-Salem from September 29 to October 8. The open Simmental show was held on October 6, with Ralph Blalock of Lucama, N.C., judging the event. Blalock selected TX Electra, the senior champion heifer, as his grand champion Simmental female. This heifer also went on to be chosen as the supreme overall female for the open beef show. Electra is a daughter of Conley GCC Shocker C19 and was exhibited by Charlie Thomas of WinstonSalem, North Carolina. The reserve champion female was TX Jemberly, the calf champion shown by Charlie Thomas and sired by CDI Innovator 325D. The

reserve calf champion was SRC Makin’ Looks L3WA, shown by Madelyn Hooker of Mount Airy, North Carolina. This heifer is sired by MBK Bankroll 224H. In the bull show, Blalock selected the senior champion bull, TX Rio Lobo, as his grand champion Simmental bull. This bull was also the reserve supreme overall bull and is shown by Charlie Thomas and sired by Felt Last Call. The premier exhibitor was Charlie Thomas.

In the junior show, Jim Ligon of Cookeville, Tenn., served as the judge.

The heifer show was on October 8, and Ligon selected TX Charlene as his grand champion Simmental heifer. This heifer was shown by Savannah Weaver

N.C. Simmental Association

of Newton, N.C., and is a daughter of LLSF Vantage Point F398. The reserve champion Simmental heifer was STCC Believe in Lila 020K, shown by Wyatt Spencer of Catawba, N.C., and sired by LLSF Pays To Believe ZU194.

N.C. State Fair Open Show Results. The N.C. State Fair ran October 12-22 with the open Simmental show on October 12. Tom Farrer of Royal Center, Ind., judged the event. In the purebred Simmental show, he selected the senior champion heifer, TJSC SIXR So Sweet 332K, as his grand champion female. This heifer is sired by HPF Quantum Leap Z952 and was shown by Brandon Weber of Alachua, Florida. The junior champion heifer was the reserve champion female, TL Miss Ellie 131K, shown by Marcie Harward of Richfield, North Carolina.

This heifer is a daughter of TL Ledger.

The calf champion heifer was JSUL PCC Mary 2519K, shown by Rex Howard of Shelby, N.C., and sired by THSF Lover Boy B33. The reserve calf champion was NBSC Poppy 213K, shown by Nate Bowman of Germanton, N.C., and

1341 US Hwy 21 • Hamptonville, NC 27020 336-468-1679 • www.ncsimmental.com • NCSA@yadtel.net Like us on Facebook!

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The Carolina Cattle Connection q DECEMBER 2023

generated by OMF Epic E27. The reserve junior champion was JSUL Evies Rosie 2219K, shown by Hagan Jones of Shelby, N.C., and sired by JSUL Something About Mary 8421. The reserve senior champion heifer was JSUL Lola 2302K, sired by JSUL Something About Mary 8421 and shown by Evie Jones of Shelby, North Carolina.

In the bull show, TX Rio Lobo, shown by Charlie Thomas of WinstonSalem, N.C., was selected as the senior champion and grand champion bull.

This bull is a son of Felt Last Call 304F. The reserve champion bull was the calf champion, Virginia Tech Stockade L355, shown by Virginia Tech of Blacksburg, Va., and sired by Rocking P Private Stock H010. The reserve senior champion bull was 3ACES/MDAY Madison, sired by Profit and shown by Brandon Weber. The premier exhibitor was Charlie Thomas.

In the Percentage Simmental show, Farrer selected the junior champion heifer as his grand champion female, PUGH Something About Ava K27ET, shown by Shelby Candler of Weaverville, North

American Simmental Association 1 Genetics Way • Bozeman, MT 59718 406-587-4531 • www.simmental.org

Carolina. This heifer is a daughter of JSUL Something About Mary 8421 and went on to be the reserve supreme overall female of the open beef cattle shows. The reserve champion Percentage Simmental female was the calf champion, CRJ Shadoe K277, shown by Cooper Joines of Blacksburg, Va., and sired by JSUL Something About Mary 8421. The reserve calf champion was TX Desert Rose, shown by Charlie Thomas of WinstonSalem, N.C., and sired by W/C Bank On it 273H. The reserve junior champion heifer was S&S Main Foxy’s Encore, shown by Mattie Harward of Richfield, N.C., and sired by Rose MC Encore 0463.

The senior champion heifer was JBOY Tammy 258K, shown by Evie Jones of Shelby, N.C., and sired by W/C Bankroll 811D. The reserve senior champion heifer was Devil Went Down To Georgia, sired

by MR SR Highlife G1609 and shown

by Kirsten Greene of Peachland, North Carolina. The grand champion cow/calf pair was Miss CCF Like a Lady, shown

by Brandon Weber of Alachua, Fla., and sired by Reckoning 711F. This pair went on to be named the supreme champion cow/calf pair of the open beef show.

For the Percentage Simmental bull show, the grand champion and calf champion bull went to Virginia Tech Legend K285 ET, shown by Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Va., and sired by Circle M Tejas. This bull went on to be named the supreme overall bull of the open beef shows! The reserve champion Percentage Simmental bull and reserve calf champion was TAB TRB Last Kall K086, shown by Amber Stephens of Quicksburg, Va., and sired by Felt Last Call 304F. N.C. State Fair Junior Show Results. The N.C. State Fair junior Simmental show was held on October 16 with Matthew Shirley of Commerce, Ga., judging the event. Shirley selected JSUL Evies Rosie 2219K as his grand champion Simmental heifer. This heifer is a daughter of JSUL Something About Mary 8421 and was shown by Hagan Jones of Shelby, North Carolina. His sister, Evie Jones, exhibited the reserve champion Simmental heifer, JSUL Lola 2302K, sired by JSUL Something About Mary 8421. The grand champion Got

It may have been a rainy day, but Melissa and Jonathan Massey were still enjoying the Extra Effort Sale.

To Be NC Simmental heifer was NBSC Poppy 213K, shown by Nate Bowman of Germanton, N.C., and sired by OMF Epic E27. The reserve champion Got To Be NC Simmental heifer was TX Charlene, shown by Fred T. Foard High School FFA of Newton, N.C., and sired by LLSF Vantage Point F398.

Marty Ropp talks about the FSCR bulls and what they can do for the commercial cattlemen.

In the Percentage Simmental show, the grand champion heifer was PUGH Something About Ava K27ET, shown by Shelby Candler of Weaverville, N.C., and sired by JSUL Something About Mary 8421. The reserve champion Percentage Simmental heifer was FRKG Dutchess 224K ET, shown by Peyton Taylor of Lenoir, N.C., and sired by SO Remedy 7F. The grand champion Got To Be NC Percentage Simmental heifer was FGS Prairie 736K, shown by Abigail Blankenship of Castalia, N.C., and sired

by TLLC One Eyed Jack. The reserve champion Got To Be NC Percentage Simmental heifer was Rese Miss Elegant Dreamy, sired by S&S Sweet Dreams 507C and shown by Avareese Branch of Elkin, North Carolina. Congratulations to all these juniors!

Extra Effort Sale. The Extra Effort Production Sale at the Fred Smith Company Ranch in Clayton, N.C., was held on October 14. This was their 7th annual sale, and the cattle just keep getting better and better there. This year the bulls sold extremely well, especially the Hook’s Freedom sons. The top selling bull was FSCR K048 Freedom, a Freedom son that sold for $12,000 to All Beef, LLC. The next top selling bull was a red bull, FSCR K263 Carry On, that sold for $11,000. This bull is a son of GW SCC Carry On 576D. Another Hook’s Freedom son sold for $10,500, followed by another Freedom son selling for $10,000. All the bulls sold very well, with

Will Thompson takes a bid.

80 bulls selling for an average of $5,740.

The females offered at this sale also sold well. The majority of these were fall calving heifers that had already calved by sale time. There was also an offering of quality open heifers. Fred Smith and his family put on a great sale, and buyers are guaranteed that their purchases will work for them and make them money!

Show winners pictured on the next page

The very nice sale facility at the Fred Smith Company Ranch. It even has balcony seating.

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Peter Hostetler

It was no trouble to walk among the bulls at the Extra Effort Sale.

540-810-4605

The Carolina Cattle Connection

q DECEMBER 2023

PAGE 39

Winners from 2023 N.C. Simmental Shows Carolina Classic Fair

N.C. State Fair

Carolina Classic Fair open show grand champion Simmental heifer and supreme overall female.

N.C. State Fair open show grand champion Simmental heifer.

Carolina Classic Fair open show reserve champion Simmental heifer.

Carolina Classic Fair open show grand champion Simmental bull and reserve supreme overall bull.

N.C. State Fair open show reserve champion Simmental heifer.

N.C. State Fair open show grand champion Simmental bull.

N.C. State Fair open show reserve champion Percentage Simmental heifer.

N.C. State Fair open show grand champion Percentage Simmental cow/calf pair and supreme overall cow/calf pair.

N.C. State Fair grand champion Got To Be NC Simmental heifer.

N.C. State Fair junior show grand champion Percentage Simmental heifer.

N.C. State Fair open show grand champion Percentage Simmental bull and supreme overall bull.

N.C. State Fair junior show reserve champion Percentage Simmental heifer.

Carolina Classic Fair junior show grand champion Simmental heifer.

N.C. State Fair open show reserve champion Simmental bull.

N.C. State Fair open show reserve champion Percentage Simmental bull.

N.C. State Fair grand champion Got To Be NC Percentage Simmental heifer.

Carolina Classic Fair junior show reserve champion Simmental heifer.

N.C. State Fair open show grand champion Percentage Simmental heifer and reserve supreme overall female.

N.C. State Fair junior show grand champion Simmental heifer.

N.C. State Fair junior show reserve champion Simmental heifer.

PAGE 40

The Carolina Cattle Connection q DECEMBER 2023

The Carolina Cattle Connection

q DECEMBER 2023

PAGE 41

• Join one of the largest mineral buying groups in the Southeast • Trial opportunities available • Delivery available in most areas of North Carolina • Make your own buying group in your area

THE BARN LOFT

1475 National Highway • Thomasville, NC 27360 Store - 336-886-1737 • Cell - 336-250-0572 www.thebarnloft.com PAGE 42

The Carolina Cattle Connection q DECEMBER 2023

The Carolina Cattle Connection

q DECEMBER 2023

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The Carolina Cattle Connection q DECEMBER 2023

Pasture Management Systems, Inc.

MILE OF FENCE PROGRAM New Members by County in 2023 (as of 11-16-23) Alamance 3 Alexander 4 Alleghany 2 Anson 4 Ashe 7 Avery 0 Beaufort 2 Bertie 1 Bladen 1 Brunswick 2 Buncombe 88 Burke 2 Cabarrus 3 Caldwell 1 Camden 23 Carteret 0 Caswell 1 Catawba 9 Chatham 8 Cherokee 2 Chowan 0 Clay 0 Cleveland 23 Columbus 1 Craven 1

Cumberland 2 Currituck 0 Dare 0 Davidson 7 Davie 5 Duplin 13 Durham 2 Edgecombe 3 Forsyth 4 Franklin 15 Gaston 4 Gates 0 Graham 0 Granville 6 Greene 3 Guilford 9 Halifax 12 Harnett 4 Haywood 77 Henderson 61 Hertford 0 Hoke 1 Hyde 0 Iredell 9 Jackson 2

Johnston 10 Jones 0 Lee 2 Lenoir 2 Lincoln 7 McDowell 4 Macon 45 Martin 1 Madison 4 Mecklenburg 1 Mitchell 0 Montgomery 2 Moore 4 Nash 5 New Hanover 0 Northampton 1 Onslow 3 Orange 3 Pamlico 0 Pasquotank 0 Pender 1 Perquimans 64 Person 5 Pitt 6 Polk 5

Grand Total

Randolph 82 Richmond 3 Robeson 2 Rockingham 33 Rowan 5 Rutherford 4 Sampson 4 Scotland 0 Stanly 0 Stokes 44 Surry 8 Swain 1 Transylvania 24 Tyrrell 0 Union 10 Vance 3 Wake 15 Warren 6 Washington 0 Watauga 7 Wayne 6 Wilkes 6 Wilson 57 Yadkin 1 Yancey 0

923

The Carolina Cattle Connection

q DECEMBER 2023

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New NCCA Members for 2024 In 2007, the NCCA Membership Committee passed a resolution to recognize all NEW members, defined as someone who has never been a member or has rejoined after a break in membership, in The Carolina Cattle Connection. Below are NCCA’s new members for the last month:

Macon County Clint Cabe – Clint Cabe Farm Rockingham County Daniel Stewart – Stewart Farm

Ashe County Keaton Craven – Craven Family Farms

Wake County Paul Bennison – Siemens Industry – Food & Beverage Michael Craig Senter – Homestead Farms

Buncombe County Tony Clinton – Ivy Creek

Warren County Ron Steiner – Elkhead Farm

Duplin County Doug Basden, Jr. – BCD Farms Jeffery Williams – M & J Farms

Wayne County Michael Kelly – Kellys Sales

Harnett County Bruce Church – Cole Creek Farms LLC

Wilkes County Ben Prevette – Prevette Farms

Iredell County Jackson B. Lowrance – Lowrance Family Farms Kenneth Robertson – Rannoch Pastured Poultry

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The Carolina Cattle Connection q DECEMBER 2023

The Night Before Christmas in North Carolina Twas the night before Christmas out on the farm, not a critter was stirring, no cause for alarm.

Cattle were content, munching rye in their fields, while tractors and gators rested their wheels.

Little mice scattered in an old tobacco barn, waiting till the morning to scare out a “darn.”

I stayed up late watching the Duttons on Yellowstone Waiting for the last heifer to bring her calf “home.”

When out in the field, I heard someone holler I ran outside like it was a bull customer caller.

Curious as an old barn cat, I sprinted The headlight’s glow was so bright I squinted.

The moon shone on slick, patchy ice Warning me to slow down and think twice.

When what to my sleepy eyes should appear But an itty bitty sleigh and eight tiny reindeer.

With a ruddy little farmer so cheerful and hick I knew in a moment it must be St. Nick!

The smoke circled while he puffed on a Winston.

I thought, “Heck, it might be best to start gettin.’

Quickly, these eight reindeer came.

Nick clucked and coughed and called them by name: Now, Dasher! Now, Dancer! Now, Prancer and Vixen!

On, Comet! On, Cupid! on, Donner and Blitzen!

To the top of the barn, to the top of the tin roof, I rubbed my eyes. I couldn’t believe this truth.

Up to the old feedlot, those deer flew With a load of fresh silage, and St. Nicholas too.

And then, shortly after, I heard on the tin The stomping and pawing of each reindeer pin.

As I hid behind pallets, plastic, and thousands of tires, he did jump, Through a hole from the last hurricane, St. Nick came with a thump.

He was dressed warmly in coveralls and held out a sack His sweatshirt proclaimed the best team, the Wolfpack!

Feed bags full of cotton seed he had slung over his shoulder For his age, he looked at least twenty years older.

His eyes were crinkled, his chin ran into his neck, His cheeks were rosy, and his teeth were kind of a wreck.

His mouth, smiling broadly with a wink of his eye Gave me the ok, I thought with a sigh.

He whistled a call to the heeler by his side As he sloshed up and down the muddy aisle wide.

He filled every bunk with cotton seed and grain I watched him closely, hoping I was still sane.

Just when I thought he was done with his gifts The heifer I was waiting on did make her tail lift.

She moaned, and she bawled. This girl was ready to pop She pushed, and she wiggled, without stop.

The next thing I know, by her side, lay a calf It’s a heifer, thank goodness, she’s getting a bath.

Nick gave her a check over. I did not worry.

The heifer, she snorted. He made tracks in a hurry.

Then, laying a finger aside of his nose, Back up through that hole, he rose.

I heard him shout as he drove out of sight Merry Christmas North Carolina, and to all, a good night!

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The Carolina Cattle Connection

q DECEMBER 2023

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NEWS Your cattle forage analysis results are in: Now what? These four measurements can help you determine what your herd needs are for additional nutrition. Harvested forages, like hay, are a significant investment for cattle nutrition programs. The USDA currently estimates hay to cost $209 per ton as of September, up 28.3 percent from 2011.1 These prices can vary widely depending on your location and the demand for forage.

No matter your overall cost of buying or bailing hay, it is vital to get a grasp on the quality of your forages to know if your cattle are getting what they need. Before you start feeding forage, get it sampled and then create a balanced nutrition program.

“While it can seem like a daunting task, understanding a few key values can make results analysis easier,” says Chad Zehnder, Ph.D., cattle nutritionist with Purina Animal Nutrition.

Here are a few values to pay attention to when you get your cattle forage analysis back: Dry matter (DM) - Dry matter is the simplest measurement to understand, and it is critical to know. Analysis results should always be viewed on a DM basis to remove moisture variation, especially when comparing values between forage for cattle.

“Dry matter can tell you quite a bit about how forages were harvested and how they may transform during storage,” says Zehnder. “You’ll also know your risk for mold and yeast growth.”

Crude protein (CP) - Crude protein is a calculation of nitrogen content multiplied by 6.25. In most cases, CP can be used to balance protein in cattle feed rations.

“Stored cattle forage that has undergone significant heating is an exception. In this instance, the analysis should account for bound protein or unavailable protein, defined as ADF-CP, where ADF is acid detergent fiber. This value is used to report available crude protein (ACP), which can be used to balance cattle feed rations for protein,” says Zehnder.

Energy content - Values used to interpret energy content are often the most confusing. The only real determination of a feed’s energy value is through feeding trials. Therefore, a forage’s energy is estimated based on measurable values in a feedstuff.

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“ADF and neutral detergent fiber (NDF) are laboratory procedures used to predict forage digestibility and intake potential,” says Zehnder. “Forage intake potential decreases as forages mature and NDF fractions increase. Likewise, cattle forage digestibility decreases as ADF fractions increase.”

ADF content is the best laboratory measurement of forage energy value.

ADF is used in prediction formulas to calculate energy value expressed as net energy gain (NEg) and net energy maintenance (NEm). These values can be used to balance cattle feed rations for energy requirements.

“Relative feed value (RFV) is often reported and considers forage dry matter digestibility and dry matter intake,” says Zehnder. “RFV is not used to balance diets but can be useful in comparing multiple lots of hay or to get a basic idea of forage quality.”

Minerals - Consider macromineral content (Ca, P, K, and Mg). Concentrations can vary, but knowing forage macromineral content can help estimate supplementation requirements; for example, if you’ve experienced winter tetany in the past and want to estimate magnesium supplementation needs.

While macromineral analysis can be helpful, micromineral analysis is more expensive. It’s also difficult to get a representative sample of microminerals because forage content varies by field and season.

“That’s why providing quality mineral year round is important, so you ensure your cattle are receiving the nutrients they need,” says Zehnder.

Final thoughts - A good rule of thumb for balancing a cow ration is to aim for the following daily nutrition requirements for a 1,400 lb. cow during the middle of pregnancy on a dry matter basis:2 • 23 lb. of DM • 7.1% CP • 0.44 Mcal/lb. of NEm • 0.19% calcium (Ca) • 0.15% phosphorus (P) These values will need to be adjusted based on a variety of factors, including animal age, stage of production, current body condition, animal size, environment, etc.

“Well interpreted results can be used to fine-tune cattle diets, meet cattle requirements and optimize performance.

But don’t interpret alone,” says Zehnder.

The Carolina Cattle Connection q DECEMBER 2023

Bring your feed supplier, nutritionist, and agronomist to the table. A whole farm approach can help determine the best way to use your cattle forage today and help you raise better forages in the future.

Visit www.purinamills.com or contact your local Purina dealer for strategies to make the most of your nutrition program.

References 1 USDA. National Agricultural Statistics Service. Agricultural Prices September 2023. Released October 31, 2023. Accessed on October 31, 2023.

2 Nutrient Requirements of Beef Cattle. Eighth Revised Edition. National Research Council. 2016.

About Purina Animal Nutrition.

Purina is a national organization serving producers, animal owners, and their families through more than 4,700 local cooperatives, independent dealers, and other large retailers throughout the United States. Driven to unlock the greatest potential in every animal, the company is an industry leading innovator offering a valued portfolio of complete feeds, supplements, premixes, ingredients, and specialty technologies for the livestock and lifestyle animal markets. Purina Animal Nutrition LLC is headquartered in Arden Hills, Minn., and a wholly owned subsidiary of Land O’Lakes, Inc. For more information, visit www.purinamills.com.

S.C. Charolais News

By GEORGEANNE WEBB S.C. Charolais Association

I have just returned from a meeting in Columbia with the South Carolina Beef Co-Op. It was a great meeting that was very informative with lots of cattlemen. Besides me, there were two other Charolais breeders there, Sammy Callahan and Michelle Johnson. Bill Baird from R-CALF USA spoke along with a lot of state speakers.

We are working hard to specify South Carolina Beef. We have “South Carolina grown” everything else from tomatoes to peanuts, so why not South Carolina beef? We believe the local consumers would really appreciate knowing where their beef comes from. Not only would it help consumers, but it would greatly help cattlemen as there is nowhere in the state to have cattle slaughtered that is

USDA approved to sell to restaurants and the public. Everyone has to take cattle to Georgia or North Carolina. Change takes time, and we are working to change that.

Bill Baird gave a great presentation for R-CALF USA that was very informative. It was good to hear from someone who actually has the cattlemen in mind and the issues we all face, especially concerning importing beef from other countries.

If you have cattle in South Carolina, you should consider joining the Co-Op. We are doing nothing but trying to help the cattlemen in South Carolina. There is power in numbers, and our numbers are growing.

I am giving fair warning to the state congressmen that before the next meeting, we will be calling all of you and expect you to attend. Cattlemen vote, too, so keep that in mind.

Not much is going on in the Charolais breed right now. We are just trying to survive the drought here in South Carolina and get ready for the holidays.

NEWS

Dairy Management Inc.’s Lisa McComb appointed chair-elect of Animal Agriculture Alliance board.

Tom Super, National Chicken Council, to step into treasurer role. Recently, the Animal Agriculture Alliance announced new upcoming board leadership following its fall board meeting, held November 7 in Washington, D.C. Lisa McComb, Dairy Management Inc., was elected as chair-elect. Tom Super, National Chicken Council, was appointed as treasurer.

McComb is the senior vice president of communications at Dairy Management Inc. (DMI). She will take the reins for a two-year term as chairperson from current board chair Derek Yancey, president of Morning Fresh Farms, beginning in January 2025. At DMI, McComb is accountable for multi-stakeholder proactive and responsive media relations and storytelling for the dairy community and consumers. She also leverages real time insights and intelligence to take action

on and prepare for key dairy issues. DMI joined the Alliance board in 2016 and has been represented by McComb since 2018.

Super is the senior vice president of communications at the National Chicken Council (NCC). Super’s executive officer responsibilities will take effect in January 2024, as he takes over for current treasurer Joel Brandenberger, retiring president and CEO of the National Turkey Federation. In his role at NCC, Super is responsible for dayto-day media relations, media outreach, social media management, and strategic communications planning to supplement NCC’s legislative, regulatory, and public affairs efforts. National Chicken Council has been on the Alliance board since 1999 and has been represented by Super for more than ten years.

“The Animal Agriculture Alliance Board of Directors represent the breadth of our membership and provide strategic direction for our programs and initiatives,”

said Hannah Thompson-Weeman, Alliance president and CEO. “Lisa and Tom have served on the Alliance board for several years and have been incredible champions for the organization. I’m confident in their leadership abilities and look forward to working with them more closely in these new roles.”

In addition to new board leadership, several board seats have been renewed through 2026. The following organization seats were renewed: • American Farm Bureau Federation, represented by R.J. Layher, Director, Government Affairs • American Sheep Industry Association, represented by Amy Hendrickson, Animal Health, Science and Research Programs Manager • Cargill, represented by Nick Wolfenden, Ph.D., Sustainable Animal Welfare Director – Global • Elanco Animal Health, represented by Colleen Parr Dekker, Executive Director, Global Corporate Communications • Farm Journal, represented by Dustin Johansen, Senior Vice President, Livestock Division • Genus PIC, represented by Srinu Reddy, Ph.D., Senior Manager of

The Carolina Cattle Connection

Regulatory Sciences and Compliance • Morning Fresh Farms, represented

by Derek Yancey, President • National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, represented by Rebecca Barnett, Director of Animal Health and Food Safety Policy • National Chicken Council, represented by Tom Super, Senior Vice President, Communications • United Egg Producers, represented

by Oscar Garrison, Senior Vice President of Food Safety The complete list of Alliance board members and organization representatives is available on the Alliance website at www.animalagalliance.org/about/board.

About the Animal Agriculture Alliance. The Alliance safeguards the future of animal agriculture and its value to society by bridging the communication gap between the farm and food communities. We connect key food industry stakeholders to arm them with responses to emerging issues. We engage food chain influencers and promote consumer choice by helping them better understand modern animal agriculture.

We protect by exposing those who threaten our nation’s food security with damaging misinformation.

q DECEMBER 2023

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GELBVIEH NEWS Champions Selected at 2023 North American International Livestock Exposition Gelbvieh and Balancer Junior Show. The 2023 North American International Livestock Exposition Gelbvieh and Balancer Junior Breeding Heifer Show was held on November 12 in Louisville, Kentucky. Exhibitors had the pleasure of welcoming judge Ryan Johnson of Mitchell, S.D., to evaluate and sort through 18 junior breeding heifers.

The grand champion bred and owned junior breeding female was GCRK 298K ET bred and owned by Molly Anderson of Marion, North Carolina. Sired by TJB Rebel Yell 804F ET and born November 21, 2022, this female first earned the title of grand champion bred and owned senior

heifer calf.

Molly also had the reserve champion junior yearling heifer with JCPG Julia 830F 223K, sired by TJB Rebel Yell 804F ET, as well as the champion senior yearling heifer with LHC 1224J, sired by JRI General Patton 213B97 ET. About the American Gelbvieh Association. AGA is a progressive beef cattle breed association dedicated to recording and promoting Gelbvieh, Balancer, and Gelbvieh influenced cattle while providing members and their customers programs and services to advance the breed.

AGA was started in 1971 and now consists of approximately 1,000 members with a registry database that contains

over 1 million animals, including approximately 45,000 currently active Gelbvieh, Balancer, and Gelbvieh influenced cows.

The Gelbvieh breed is well known throughout the industry for its maternal

strengths and superior growth. With these attributes, Gelbvieh and Balancer cattle fit well into a crossbreeding system and provide genetics that work for the commercial cattle business. For more information, visit www.gelbvieh.org.

N.C. Cattle Receipts, Trends, and Prices for the Month of OCTOBER 2023 Cattle Receipts: 20,383

•

Previous Month: 18,269

Feeder supply - 18% steers • 45% heifers • 37% bulls SLAUGHTER CLASSES

Avg. Wt.

Cows - % Lean

Breaker 1,479

Boner 1,257

Lean 1,056

$88.06 $90.26 $78.15

$111.25

Bulls - Yield Grade 1-2

1,492

Price

FEEDER CLASSES

FEEDER STEERS (Medium and Large 1-2) Wt. Range Avg. Wt. CWT Avg. Price 400-450 424 $229.36 $972.49 450-500 472 $228.25 $1,077.34 500-550 522 $221.91 $1,158.37 550-600 575 $219.73 $1,263.45 600-650 624 $207.61 $1,295.49 650-700 671 $199.66 $1,339.72

FEEDER BULLS (Medium and Large 1-2) Wt. Range Avg. Wt. CWT Avg. Price 400-450 423 $216.49 $915.75 450-500 472 $206.71 $975.67 500-550 523 $197.96 $1,035.33 550-600 571 $188.68 $1,077.36 600-650 622 $180.16 $1,120.60 650-700 671 $173.63 $1,165.06

FEEDER HEIFERS (Medium and Large 1-2) Wt. Range Avg. Wt. CWT Avg. Price 400-450 424 $197.24 $836.30 450-500 471 $196.01 $923.21 500-550 544 $186.54 $1,014.78 550-600 571 $184.10 $1,051.21 600-650 625 $180.64 $1,129.00 650-700 671 $170.81 $1,146.14

Source: N.C. Dept. of Agriculture - USDA Market News Service, Raleigh, N.C. - 919-707-3156

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The Carolina Cattle Connection q DECEMBER 2023

32 Annual Replacement Heifer Sale nd

Saturday • February 24, 2024 • 12:30 p.m.

Selling 75 Bred & Open Heifers

Absentee Bidding Options Will Be Available

Videos of sale offering will be available on the website February 15

The Carolina Cattle Connection

q DECEMBER 2023

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A Message from the CEO

By COLIN WOODALL

National Cattlemen’s Beef Association

The Importance of Research When you think of the Checkoff, your mind usually goes straight to the Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner. advertising campaign. However, beef promotion is just one component of the work done with your Checkoff dollars. In fact, there would be no Checkoff funded beef promotion or education programs without the research to provide the information that is shared with consumers and producers. A solid foundation of knowledge built with our research work is how we improve our operations and our product and continue to provide nutritious and high quality beef to our customers.

NCBA’s Scientific Affairs team consists of scientists and industry experts who have developed research road maps in four distinct priority areas. Preharvest beef safety is one area where our goal is to facilitate and communicate solution based, pre-harvest research to improve beef safety. This research area looks at mitigation strategies, harbors, and physiology. Mitigation strategies are those actions we can take in the cattle production system to reduce the number of pathogens carried into the beef supply. The best thing we can do to improve the safety of our product is to prevent the vectors from ever entering our system from the outside. There are multiple ways pathogens and vectors can impact the safety of our product, which is why we also must look at those areas or factors that can carry or transfer pathogens within the system. Evaluating areas that can harbor pathogens, such as lymph nodes, the gastrointestinal tract, and the production environment, will help us to better identify and manage those pathogens. Knowing our enemy is the third part of this road map because the only way to manage these pathogens is to know how they work, how they are transferred, and the problems they present to public health. Maintaining the consumer’s faith in the safety of our beef is paramount to their continued demand for our product.

The next priority area is human

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nutrition research, where our goal is to understand beef’s role in a healthy diet to nourish and optimize Americans’ health at every life stage. Our team of nutrition scientists and Registered Dieticians works to manage original scientific research evaluating beef’s role in optimal human health and well-being and the prevention of chronic disease. This research focuses on human growth and development, metabolic health such as heart disease, muscle health, and how beef fits into a balanced diet. We also spend a tremendous amount of time evaluating and interpreting research done by other groups to see if that work can support our goal. It also means we evaluate work from detractors so we can expose their work, correct the record, and protect beef’s reputation. Taking this knowledge and educating the scientific community is key to getting others to promote beef’s role in a healthy diet, to improve scientific methods, and to allow us to partner with leading scientific organizations and individuals to further our credibility.

Product quality research is the next roadmap with a goal of utilizing science to drive understanding of and improvement in product quality and consistency. The quality of our beef has continued to improve, and this research area aims at continually improving industry practices or actions impacting the consistency of beef flavor, tenderness, juiciness, color, shelf life, and the yield of total red meat from each carcass.

Research is being conducted that considers pre-harvest cattle management practices, technology to measure or predict palatability and product size, and looks at the quality of beef versus meat alternatives. This research area also provides technical services to the industry. Our team of meat scientists shares our knowledge of beef muscles and cuts, fabrication methods, nomenclature, and more with retailers, food service, restaurant groups, and other companies in the beef supply chain.

The final research priority area is

The Carolina Cattle Connection q DECEMBER 2023

sustainability. The goal of this research roadmap is to advance the field of beef sustainability research, benchmark industry sustainability, identify opportunities for improvement, and communicate industry progress while maintaining a holistic focus on the three pillars of sustainability. The first of those three pillars is the work we do on environmental research, which looks at greenhouse gas emissions, nutrient cycling, ecosystem services, and water quality.

Economic research is the second pillar, and it evaluates the importance of keeping beef cattle operations in business while evaluating beef’s role in driving local

and national economies. The third pillar evaluates the social sustainability of cattle producers and their impact on personal, social, and community dynamics.

All four of these research roadmaps help to build on the solid foundation of knowledge that exists through previous work. These areas continue to evolve, however, so we must continually work to lead research that helps our industry become even better. In the coming months, I will dive deeper into each of these four research areas to showcase the great work being done with your Checkoff dollars.

Shorthorn News

ASA Holds Annual Meeting in Kansas City. During the American Shorthorn Association Annual Meeting on October 22, more than 100 members from 24 states gathered at the Hilton Kansas City Airport to elect new ASA board members, learn about the state of the association, and receive awards.

The event kicked off on October 21 at the ASA office with a social for breeders to gather and enjoy the company of new and old friends.

The next morning, delegates convened to listen to Montie D. Soules, Executive Secretary/CEO of ASA, share the State of the Association. This included Key Performance Indicators, finances, and other association updates.

“The ASA had a really great year,” Soules said. “The association continues to grow, and we are headed in a positive direction. We couldn’t do it without all the people of the breed.”

After the report, the nominating committee submitted three candidates for the available board positions - Tyler Cates from Indiana, Cory Bollum from Minnesota, and Mark Gordon from Illinois. All three will serve a three year term; Cates and Cory will serve their first term; Gordon will serve his second term.

The board elected new officers for the nine member board. The new president of the board is Toby Jordan of Indiana. The vice president is Lee Miller of Ohio, and the executive director is John Sonderman of Nebraska. They serve alongside Jeff Bedwell of Oklahoma, John Russell of Texas, and Rick Osterday of South Dakota.

Following the election of board members, attendees heard updates from junior activities, the Shorthorn Youth

Development Fund Foundation, the Shorthorn Foundation, and several other committees.

After the meeting adjourned, attendees enjoyed a steak luncheon and listened to motivational speaker Matt Booth, who encouraged positivity in daily life.

The final event was the awards presentation. Breeders who registered more than 100 head in a fiscal year were given the Century Club Award. Next, animal owners received certificates for performance animals that met certain qualifications. The national and regional show winners for 2022-2023 were recognized with leather banners and metal awards. The final presentations of the evening were special recognition awards.

This year, the Heritage Awards went to Mary Hinton Bass and Bryan and Marti Warner. The Merit Award recognized Alan K. Sears. The Builders of the Breed were Ward Bakenhus, Bill Bales and Joe Bales, and Rick Leone and Family.

In 2024, the ASA Annual Meeting will be held on October 26 in Kansas City, Missouri.

About the American Shorthorn Association. The mission of the ASA is to provide quality service and support to its members by promoting the value of Shorthorn cattle in all aspects of the beef industry while maintaining the integrity of the herd book and performance database.

The ASA is headquartered in Kansas City, Mo., and was founded in 1872 with herd book records going back to 1822. As one of the oldest American breed associations, the ASA provides services for more than 6,000 junior and senior members who register more than 15,000 cattle annually.

To learn more, contact the ASA office or visit www.shorthorn.org.

The Carolina Cattle Connection

q DECEMBER 2023

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The Carolina Cattle Connection q DECEMBER 2023

NCBA

President’s Report

By TODD WILKINSON

National Cattlemen’s Beef Association

Representing America’s Cattle Industry on the World Stage Last month, I had the opportunity to travel to the Netherlands to attend the 2023 World Meat Congress. This was the first meeting of the World Meat Congress since 2018 due to COVID-19, and it was an opportunity for global livestock producers, trade associations, exporters, and meat processors to discuss the major issues facing the meat industry.

The World Meat Congress is held by the International Meat Secretariat (IMS), an international non-profit organization of meat industry stakeholders, and this meeting could not have come at a more important time. Livestock producers around the world face many of the same challenges that we face in the U.S., from anti-meat climate regulations to the rise of cell cultured proteins. Unfortunately for many of our neighbors, they have few allies in their home governments to defend their way of life.

At one session, we heard from a Dutch animal rights organization trying to convince attendees their animal welfare labeling scheme was the only viable option for meat products.

What struck me was how the Dutch animal rights representatives told cattle producers that consumers had no faith in producers’ ability to provide a high level of animal welfare for their animals, but their labeling scheme was the solution.

Meanwhile, this same organization was attacking livestock producers on social media and sowing seeds of doubt in consumers. Creating a problem and then offering the “only viable solution” is the definition of a protection racket!

This experience reminded me why it is so important for cattle producers to have a seat at the table during every discussion. Without our engagement in Washington, D.C., and across the world, American cattle producers could easily face similar challenges in the future with anti-agriculture activists calling the shots.

At a different meeting, we heard from Mosa Meats, a Dutch cell cultured protein company that claims to have the ability to manufacture 80,000 hamburger patties

from one sample of cells harvested from live cattle. This cell cultured company is bankrolled by celebrity investors like Leonardo DiCaprio, who hope to eliminate traditionally raised cattle by replicating the intellectual property of real cattle in factories with bioreactors to develop a product mimicking ground beef. Thankfully, NCBA had a chance to hold their feet to the fire and ask questions about how they planned to compensate cattle producers for the intellectual property of their cattle when they were to harvest samples from cattle. The company had never considered that issue, and once again, we were at the forefront of discussions about how emerging technologies will impact our industry.

I am pleased to report that after these meetings, NCBA gained new leadership roles in the IMS. Moving forward, we will have a representative on the IMS Board of Directors and Executive Council, and NCBA will chair the Beef Committee, too. We will be guiding future cattle and beef discussions on the world stage, and I am proud that NCBA will be in this leadership role.

Traveling to these overseas meetings always reminds me why it’s so important to fight for the cattle industry here in the United States. Anti-agriculture misinformation runs rampant in Europe and other parts of the world where activists drive politicians to push non-scientific, anti-agriculture regulations in the name of protecting the climate or improving animal welfare. That could be our fate if we fail to engage. Attending international forums and keeping constant pressure on Congress is vital to our work as an organization in protecting your farm or ranch. NCBA was the only U.S. cattle organization in attendance at the World Meat Congress and the only organization with a perspective of the cattle producers and feeders. If we bury our heads in the sand and say what happens in the rest of the world doesn’t matter, we will become irrelevant in shaping world opinions. I, for one, would rather be at the table than on the menu.

!

S E AT

D P U Montana Singer to Perform National Anthem at CattleCon24. Anna Sponheim Wins 11th Annual NCBA National Anthem Contest. The winner of the 11th annual NCBA National Anthem Contest, sponsored by Norbrook, is Anna Sponheim of Winifred, Montana. Sponheim will sing the “Star Spangled Banner” at CattleCon24 during the opening general session.

“I’m elated and grateful to win this contest,” said Sponheim. “I may have been chosen, but this is a win for Montana and everyone who supported me. I hope I can do them proud.”

Alongside the Upper Missouri River Breaks in Montana, Sponheim grew up helping her family grow wheat, barley, hay, and peas and raising Black Angus cows. While her two brothers fell in love with farming, Sponheim and her sister gravitated toward the animals, instilling a passion to learn more through organizations like FFA. After graduating from Montana State University with degrees in agriculture communications and writing, Sponheim joined the staff of the Montana Beef Council.

“I count it a good day when I can talk to people about the beef industry, the nutrients beef provides and the positive impact producers have on the environment,” Sponheim said.

As the winner of the contest, Sponheim will receive roundtrip airfare to Orlando, a hotel room for three nights, convention registration, plus a pair of boots, jeans, and a shirt from Roper or Stetson. Online voting by the public determined the winner.

FFA and 4-H Members Receive Free Admission to NCBA Trade Show at CattleCon24. The next generation of agricultural leaders are invited to attend the NCBA Trade Show at CattleCon24 for free on February 2. FFA and 4-H members can receive free trade show admission on Next Gen Ag FFA & 4-H Day, which will include a variety of events and activities for youth and families.

Courtesy of Culver’s, the first 250 FFA members to register will receive complimentary Friday NCBA Trade Show admission. FFA members and alumni are also invited to the Culver’s Blue Jacket Custard Social.

Nationwide is providing

The Carolina Cattle Connection

complimentary Friday NCBA Trade Show admission to the first 250 4-H members who register. Nationwide is also sponsoring a special Learning Lounge session about careers in agriculture featuring MaryThomas Hart, chief counsel at the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association.

“Youth engagement is critical to the future of America’s rural communities, and industry events like the NCBA Trade Show are great places to learn about career opportunities while building a national network of producers and industry experts,” said Hart. “As a 4-H alumnus, I look forward to meeting 4-H members from across the country who are excited about civic engagement and a future in cattle production.”

NCBA Trade Show attendees can explore more than eight acres of displays and exhibitors offering the latest advancements, from equipment and technology to pharmaceuticals and feed supplements. In addition to finding the right product or service to solve any problem, there are a variety of educational opportunities within the show.

Attendees can stop in the Learning Lounge to enjoy informal, face-to-face talks in an intimate setting right on the trade show floor. The popular Stockmanship & Stewardship Demonstration Arena also returns with stockmanship experts providing low-stress cattle handling demonstrations, Beef Quality Assurance educational sessions, industry updates, and facility design sessions. Cattle Chats will feature beef industry educational sessions, and the Chutes and Scales Showdown will offer a side-by-side comparison of equipment where producers can watch cattle run through chutes and then get hands-on experience.

Other activities include an appearance by the Oscar Meyer Wienermobile, the “Pups & Popsicles” reception featuring furry friends and refreshing treats, and entertainment throughout the trade show.

To receive free Friday NCBA Trade Show registration, FFA members must use the code FFACULVERS, and 4-H members must use 4HNW. A variety of other registration options are also available. For more information and to register and reserve housing, visit www.convention.ncba.org.

q DECEMBER 2023

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NEWS Alltech survey finds agri-food leaders are optimistic about industry’s ability to create a more sustainable food system. Alltech shares results of its first global sustainability insights survey.

Agri-food leaders around the world believe the industry can work together to create a better, more sustainable food system, according to the Alltech Sustainability Insights report released recently.

Alltech conducted a global, industry wide survey to gather insights on the issues that matter most to the agrifood value chain and its stakeholders.

In collaboration with Opinions, an independent research agency based in Ireland, Alltech collected insights through 26 interviews with industry leaders and via a comprehensive survey completed by more than 2,500 members of the agrifood industry. This effort presented an exciting opportunity to quantify attitudes and perceptions about sustainability from stakeholders across the agri-food value chain and identify tangible actions to build a more sustainable future.

“Our goal was to listen to the voices of our industry and its stakeholders and develop a robust, future facing program of insights that are relevant, ambitious, and genuinely impactful,” said Tara McCarthy, global vice president of ESG at Alltech. “Our industry is navigating unprecedented disruption, yet it remains confident and committed to evolving toward a more sustainable food system. The key to success will be the development of innovative solutions, but even more critical is the capacity of the industry to work together across the value chain.”

The survey questions were focused on five areas: challenges and opportunities, drivers and priorities, attitudes toward change, support and guidance, and who they believe is going to pay for sustainability. The key findings of the survey include: • While four out of five respondents agree that “climate change will make food production much more difficult in the future,” perspectives differ across the regions. A very real series of crises faces the agri-food industry, and, for the most part, survey respondents acknowledged the gravity of those challenges and the fragility of our food system. There is a strong level of optimism and positivity, however, with 85 percent of respondents agreeing that the food system can rise to

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the challenge.

• Almost three in four respondents reported feeling that a lot more guidance is needed to support their improvements in environmental sustainability. The need for guidance is expressed most strongly at the latter end of the value chain (e.g., retailers, food service operators, and manufacturers).

• Most respondents agree that regulation is putting pressure on all areas of the supply chain. Respondents were similarly realistic about the need for support for the primary producers of the food that the 8 billion people on this planet eat: 66 percent agree that until the farmer is incentivized financially, things will never change.

• Many recognize that we will not be able to resolve the challenges ahead without a huge degree of innovation and harnessing technology to enable us to feed ourselves sustainably, with 92 percent of respondents believing that technology and innovation are key to more sustainable food systems.

• There is a near universal recognition that we need a collaborative conversation and effort across the value chain, with 93 percent of respondents agreeing that we all must work together to create a better food system for the future.

“Our industry is navigating extraordinary times, but the opportunities for positive impact are even more unprecedented,” said Dr. Mark Lyons, president and CEO of Alltech. “Imagine what is possible when we all work toward the shared goals of providing nutrition for all, revitalizing local economies, and replenishing the planet’s natural resources.”

For more information and survey results, visit www.alltech.com/ sustainability-insights.

About Alltech. Founded in 1980

by Irish entrepreneur and scientist Dr. Pearse Lyons, Alltech delivers smarter, more sustainable solutions for agriculture. Our diverse portfolio of products and services improves the health and performance of plants and animals, resulting in better nutrition for all and a decreased environmental impact.

We are a global leader in the agriculture industry. Our team produces specialty ingredients, premix supplements, feed, and biologicals backed by science and an unparalleled platform of services.

Strengthened by more than 40 years of scientific research, we carry forward

The Carolina Cattle Connection q DECEMBER 2023

a legacy of innovation and a unique culture that views challenges through an entrepreneurial lens. As a private, family owned company, we adapt quickly to our customers’ needs and focus on advanced innovation.

We believe agriculture has the greatest potential to shape the future of our planet. Our more than 5,000 talented team members worldwide share our purpose of Working Together for

a Planet of Plenty™. Together, we can provide nutrition for all, revitalize local economies, and replenish the planet’s natural resources.

Headquartered just outside of Lexington, Ken., Alltech serves customers in more than 120 countries, has five bioscience centers, and operates more than 80 manufacturing facilities across the globe. For more information, visit www.alltech.com.

Senator James D. Speed Achievement Scholarship The Senator James D. Speed Achievement Scholarship is presented to a deserving junior beef exhibitor, aged 14-18 years old, in the junior market steer and/or junior beef heifer competition. The scholarship continues the legacy that Senator Speed created as a 32 year member of the North Carolina State Legislature and through his commitment and dedication to agricultural interests.

One of his significant contributions to agriculture was his long term support of providing working agricultural lands with “Present Use Value.” Farmland would not be able to be productive and owned today by many farm families across North Carolina without the “Present Use Value Taxation” program.

Thank you to the late Senator Speed for allowing us to farm in this great state of North Carolina.

To honor his memory, the Franklin County Cattlemen’s Association honored him by establishing and presenting an academic scholarship to an outstanding achiever in the junior beef program. The scholarship is funded through an endowment in the N.C. Agricultural Foundation. Beginning this year, the scholarship committee has created two scholarships, one for $1,000 and the other for $500. The Achievement Scholars selected for 2023 demonstrate strong leadership skills, integrity, good sportsmanship, achievement of goals, and an advocate of today’s agricultural industry. The scholars were selected by a committee of Franklin County cattle producers and announced here today at the N.C. State Fair.

The Senator James D. Speed Achievement Scholarships are awarded during the scholar’s freshman year and will be made payable to the scholar’s selected institution of higher education on behalf of the named scholar.

Other financial support this year was given by Ingrid Volk of Hill & Dale Farms, the “Leonard-Mobley Small Farm Fund” with tremendous regional support for the annual local farm-to-fork fundraiser, “Dinner in the Meadow,” and the N.C. Small Farm Association, all based in Franklin County.

This year’s winners are Shane Kendall, 18-year-old son of Charmae and Dustin Kendall of Sampson County, and Shelby Candler, 18-year-old daughter of John and Jody Candler in Buncombe County.

Joe Nusser, N.C. Small Farm Association; Mark Speed, Franklin County Commissioner and son of the late Senator Speed; Shane Kendall, Jody Candler, John Candler, and former Senator Doug Berger.

Carolina Cooking Green Peppercorn Crusted Strip Roast with Red Wine Sauce Total Time - 3 hours, 16 minutes 1 beef strip roast (3-4 pounds) Seasoning 1 tablespoon green peppercorns 2 teaspoons granulated garlic 2 teaspoons kosher salt 2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper 1 teaspoon lemon peel Wine Sauce 2 tablespoons olive oil 4 ounces cremini or button mushrooms, sliced ¼ cup finely chopped shallots 1 cup beef broth 1 cup Cabernet Sauvignon 1 tablespoon cornstarch ¼ teaspoon cracked black pepper 1 teaspoon fresh thyme kosher salt Preheat oven to 325°F. Combine Seasoning ingredients; press evenly onto all surfaces of beef strip roast.

Place roast on rack in shallow roasting pan. Insert ovenproof meat thermometer so the tip is centered in the thickest part of beef, not resting in fat. Do not add water or cover. Roast in 325°F oven for 1¼-1½ hours for medium rare; 1½-1¾ hours for medium doneness.

Meanwhile, prepare wine sauce. Heat olive oil in large nonstick skillet over medium heat until hot. Add mushrooms and shallots; cook and stir for 6-9 minutes or until mushrooms are tender and browned. Remove from skillet; keep warm. Add ¾ cup broth and wine to skillet; cook and stir over medium heat for 12-16 minutes or until reduced to 1 cup. Combine the remaining ¼ cup broth and cornstarch in a small bowl.

Whisk cornstarch mixture and pepper into wine mixture; bring to a boil. Cook for 1 minute or until sauce thickens, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat; add thyme and mushroom mixture. Season with salt, as desired.

Remove roast when the meat thermometer registers 135°F for medium rare 145°F for medium. Transfer roast to carving board; tent loosely with

aluminum foil. Let stand for 10-15 minutes. (Temperature will continue to rise about 10°-15°F to reach 145°F for medium rare; 160°F for medium.)

Carve roast into slices; season with salt, as desired. Serve with wine sauce.

Makes 16 servings.

Green Peppercorn Crusted Strip Roast with Red Wine Sauce

PUBLIC LANDS COUNCIL NEWS Cattlemen Object to Biden Administration’s Plan to Introduce Grizzly Bears in Pacific Northwest.

Recently, the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA), Public Lands Council (PLC), and Washington Cattlemen’s Association (WCA), alongside other leading national agricultural organizations, filed comments opposing the Biden administration’s plan to introduce grizzly bears to the North Cascades Ecosystem (NCE) in Washington state.

This latest proposed rule from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service follows years of opposition from rural Washington communities, cattle ranchers, and sheep producers. This is a misguided effort by federal bureaucrats that will not make a meaningful difference to the success of the species but will impose a severe burden on rural communities and livestock producers.

“Introducing an apex predator like the grizzly bear to a new area of Washington state is a mistake, and poses a huge threat to our rural communities and hardworking farmers and ranchers,” said NCBA President-Elect Mark Eisele, a Wyoming rancher. “This plan is being pushed by bureaucrats thousands of miles away from the West who do not fully understand the harm this species will cause to producers. The Biden administration should listen to rural residents and rethink this plan.”

Residents of rural Washington state have long opposed previous attempts to introduce the grizzly bear to the North Cascades Ecosystem due to safety concerns. There are currently no bears in the NCE; the species is already thriving and multiplying in other recovery zones like the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem.

“Grizzly bears are 20 times more dangerous than black bears and are well known for their aggressive, fatal maulings.

Their broad diet means they can harm anyone – corn producers, orchards, cattle ranchers, sheep ranchers, the list goes on and on. Airdropping these bears into a new community in Washington state is not something the federal government should take lightly,” said PLC President Mark Roeber, a Colorado rancher. “I have faced livestock depredation from gray wolves around my ranch and introducing an even larger predator will only cause more harm to our fellow livestock producers in Washington state.”

The Carolina Cattle Connection

NCBA and PLC have worked closely with Representative Dan Newhouse (R-Wash.), chairman of the Congressional Western Caucus, to oppose this rule and recently penned an op-ed raising the numerous concerns with this proposal.

Representative Newhouse has been a critical ally in opposing previous attempts to introduce grizzly bears to the North Cascades and continues to be a strong supporter of our efforts to reject this latest plan.

“While the WCA strives to be collaborative, we have grave concerns with the grizzly bear introduction. Bears have the potential to be destructive in ways we aren’t prepared to handle, and they pose a risk — not just to our livestock — but to human life as well,” said WCA Executive Vice President Chelsea Hajny. “WCA has raised these concerns with the federal government repeatedly and we urge Washington, D.C. to listen to the needs of Washington state.”

About the Public Lands Council. PLC represents 22,000 cattle and sheep producers who operate with federal grazing permits in the West. The PLC advocates for these western ranchers who preserve our nation’s natural resources while providing vital food and fiber to the nation and the world. Learn more at www.publiclandscouncil.org.

Don’t put your cart before your horse...advertise that sale ahead of time! You’ll see positive results. q DECEMBER 2023

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Building on the Veterinarian-Client-Patient Relationship Opportunities for Improving Cattle Health and Welfare

By JULIE HERMAN, DVM, MS Communication and relationship building are key components of a successful cattle operation. Both require intentional work and active updating throughout the year, depending on what the focus is. Active communication should be the foundation of the partnership between many parties affecting the cattle operation, including: • Between a client and their herd veterinarian, developing a VeterinarianClient-Patient Relationship (VCPR) • Between management and cattle caretakers through everyday activities, onboarding, and annual training • Between cattle caretakers and their cattle through improved stockmanship and understanding cattle behavior Having open conversations with the herd veterinarian throughout the year about cattle care is a valuable way to plan. Cattle care encompasses several overlapping areas, including animal husbandry, welfare, nutrition, low stress handling, and even employee training.

Within the Beef Checkoff funded Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) program, there are guidelines that touch on these areas to improve welfare through husbandry practices, and BQA encourages producers to strive for continuous improvement in all aspects of the operation. This continuous learning and exchange of information are essential for staying up to date with the ever evolving cattle industry. Cattle producers can make informed decisions and adapt to new challenges and opportunities in the market. All of these are opportunities created with a VCPR. Rosslyn Biggs, veterinarian and beef cattle extension specialist with Oklahoma State University, works constantly with cattle producers and veterinary practitioners to understand how this relationship can be even more impactful.

“The importance of a veterinary team member is now more important than ever as many areas, particularly rural communities, experience difficulty in recruiting and retaining veterinarians,” she explained. “Additionally, increased oversight such as the Veterinary Feed Directive and judicious antibiotic usage make the VCPR even more critical.”

The VCPR facilitates responsible antibiotic use in cattle production. With growing concerns over antimicrobial resistance, it is vital to have a herd veterinarian overseeing and prescribing antibiotics when necessary. After

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the Food and Drug Administration’s Guidance for Industry #263 went into effect this summer, medically important antimicrobial drugs that were previously available over-thecounter were transitioned to requiring a veterinary prescription. It is important to remember that a VCPR is required before a veterinarian can legally write a prescription.

Veterinarians can ensure that antibiotics are used judiciously, only when needed, and in the most effective manner. This approach not only preserves the efficacy of these drugs but also upholds public health by minimizing the risk of antibiotic residues in cattle products.

Biggs added, “Veterinarians can also guide producers on accurately meeting antimicrobial label requirements, including appropriate use and withdrawal.

Additionally, treatment protocols and record keeping measures can be developed if not already present in an operation.”

BQA supports the judicious use of antimicrobials and has 14 education points for review in the Antibiotic Stewardship for Beef Producers document found on www.bqa.org.

A VCPR also plays a vital role in ensuring food safety and quality.

With the increasing emphasis on food safety regulations, having a veterinarian involved in the cattle operation is critical.

They can help develop and oversee proper animal health and management practices, which, in turn, contribute to the safety and quality of cattle products, such as meat and dairy. Veterinarians can help producers with record keeping, tracking animal treatments, and ensuring labeled withdrawal times are followed with animal health products, including vaccines, antibiotics, feed additives, or dewormers. This helps in meeting regulatory requirements and maintaining consumer confidence in the products.

When cattle producers have a strong relationship with a veterinarian and can maximize that communication, cattle producers can optimize their production processes, reduce losses, and improve the overall performance of the herd. This can lead to increased economic viability and sustainability in the cattle industry.

Biggs brought up another important aspect to consider when building a relationship with a veterinarian, “Finding a veterinary practice that fits the needs

The Carolina Cattle Connection q DECEMBER 2023

of your operation is key. Take the time to develop a long lasting, effective relationship well before crisis strikes.

Like cattlemen, veterinarians continue to be faced with multiple challenges.

Investing in a solid VCPR creates a strategic alliance that proves mutually beneficial to both producers and veterinarians.”

The VCPR remains one of the important relationships in a cattle operation. This management tool connects veterinarians, cattle producers, and the animals while contributing to disease prevention, herd health, food

safety, education, responsible antibiotic use, disaster preparedness, efficiency, profitability, and ethical production.

A strong VCPR is a cornerstone of a successful and sustainable cattle industry, ensuring the well being of both the animals and the people involved in the process. The BQA program, including its certification courses and accompanying resources, highlights this relationship and provides educational opportunities for cattle producers to advance their operations. Visit www.bqa.org to find these resources and check your BQA certification status.

NEWS Premier Select Sires Scholarship Opportunities Total $20,000 in 2024.

Premier Select Sires will award up to $20,000 to students within the Premier territory through the 2024 Premier Future Ag Leaders Scholarship Program. Two exemplary students will receive $2,500 scholarships through either the Johnny Daniel Memorial Scholarship or the Wayne Dudley Scholarship. Several other students will receive scholarships of $750-$1,000 in value.

Scholarship application forms are currently available under the “News” tab of www.premierselectsires.com, by calling 570-836-3168, or by emailing office@premierselect.com. Completed scholarship applications are due January 31, 2024.

Eligible students include high school seniors through college seniors presently enrolled or planning to enroll in an undergraduate agriculture-related major.

The student or his/her parent or guardian must reside in the Premier membership area and must be an active Premier customer in good standing. Previous scholarship winners remain eligible during subsequent award years; however, a student can only receive a $2,500 scholarship once in his/her school career.

The Premier Future Ag Leaders Scholarship Program provides

financial support to eligible college undergraduates in agricultural majors.

The program provides additional return to the cooperative’s member-owners by supporting the next generation of young people desiring to study and work in the agriculture industry. The Premier Select Sires, Inc. board of directors has made a commitment to providing money to support this scholarship program on an ongoing annual basis.

About Premier Select Sires. Premier Select Sires is a farmer-owned cooperative that serves beef and dairy producers in its 23 state member area. Dedicated to providing its members with all they need to achieve success, Premier provides: • Industry leading genetics from the Select Sires, Accelerated Genetics, and GenerVations brands • Effective herd health and management products, as well as artificial insemination supplies • Reliable services and programs backed by years of success • Knowledgeable industry experts who are easily accessed for consultation, advice, and on-farm assistance Together with its five sister cooperatives across the United States, Premier owns and controls Select Sires Inc., the world’s most recognized name in bovine genetics.

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q DECEMBER 2023

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The Carolina Cattle Connection q DECEMBER 2023

Beef Checkoff News Apply Today to Become Beef Spokesperson. The Beef Checkoff funded Trailblazers program is seeking applications for its next class of beef advocates. Trailblazers, developed by the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA), a contractor to the Beef Checkoff, takes advocacy to the next level by giving participants the tools and training they need to promote beef to new audiences while addressing and correcting myths.

“Over the past two years, the Trailblazers program has proven to be a dynamic and effective program for advocates seeking to develop their skillset, while building an inter-connected community of elite advocates from across the country,” said Chandler Mulvaney, director of grassroots advocacy and spokesperson development at NCBA. “If you are an advocate and seeking a chance to be empowered on your advocacy journey, apply today, and help safeguard the work of cattle farmers and ranchers.”

The Trailblazers program is looking for new spokespeople to participate in a year long hands-on program designed to train, equip, and empower beef advocates.

Selected candidates receive training to become expert communicators, excel in media interviews, and understand how to build confidence in beef related practices when talking to consumers.

Each year, ten new Trailblazers are selected to create a tight knit community that works together to find solutions to social and practical issues impacting the beef community. Throughout the year, Trailblazers receive advanced in-person and virtual training from subject matter experts, learning how to effectively engage on various social media platforms, interact with the media, and enhance public speaking skills. Upon completion of the program, Trailblazers serve as industry spokespeople and inform beef advocates at the local and state levels on advocacy, media, and spokesperson best practices.

“My favorite part of being a Trailblazer has been the networking and relationship building with people who are as passionate about the cattle and beef communities as I am,” said Kacy Atkinson of Wyoming. “Not only will you develop a supportive group of friends and cheerleaders you will find invaluable, but the program will also connect you to

NEWS

2024-2025 Scholarship Applications The N.C. Cattlemen’s Foundation is now receiving applications for undergraduate scholarships and graduate student travel funding for the 2024-2025 academic year. This is the ninth year the foundation will award scholarships to students who are North Carolina residents.

However, they are still eligible if they are attending college in another state.

The applications for both scholarships and graduate student travel are available on the main webpage of the N.C. Cattlemen’s Association. Completed applications must be submitted online from www.nccattle.com. However, printable versions are available to assist

you in gathering information for your applications. If applicants are unable to submit completed applications online, they must contact Casey Hinnant at mail@ nccattle.com for other accommodations.

All applications are due by 11:50 p.m.

EST on January 10, 2024.

Applications will be reviewed and recommended for NCCF board approval at its meeting in mid-February. Awards will be announced after that meeting.

Questions regarding the application process can be addressed to Dr. Roger Crickenberger at 919-464-5636 or acricks4@mac.com or Casey Hinnant at 919-552-9111 or mail@nccattle.com.

people within the community that will serve as mentors and resources, willing to help you meet the goals you have for yourself and push you to grow to become an even better advocate.”

Applications will be accepted through December 8, and selected participants will be notified mid-January, upon completing the review process. Applicants must be 21 years of age, have completed their Masters of Beef Advocacy certification, and provide at least two references with their online application. To apply, visit the website, and for more information, contact Chandler Mulvaney at cmulvaney@beef. org.

About Trailblazers. The Checkoff funded Trailblazers program was created in 2021 to support the efforts of the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, a contractor to the Beef Checkoff, in

identifying, recruiting, empowering, and engaging with advocates in the beef community. The program provides a train-the-trainer model to support state beef councils and partner organizations in mobilizing a cadre of spokespeople who are equipped to have tough conversations and seek solutions in telling the beef story.

About the Beef Checkoff. The Beef Checkoff was established as part of the 1985 Farm Bill. The Checkoff assesses $1 per head on the sale of live domestic and imported cattle, in addition to a comparable assessment on imported beef and beef products. States may retain up to 50¢ of the dollar and forward the other 50¢ per head to the Cattlemen’s Beef Promotion and Research Board, which administers the national checkoff program, subject to USDA approval.

S.C. Cattle Receipts, Trends, and Prices for the Month of OCTOBER 2023 Cattle Receipts: 13,009

•

Previous Month: 11,553

Feeder supply - 28% steers • 39% heifers • 33% bulls SLAUGHTER CLASSES

Avg. Wt.

Cows - % Lean

Breaker 1,512

Boner 1,228

Lean 965

$97.39 $96.51 $92.61

$122.40

Bulls - Yield Grade 1-2

1,670

Price

FEEDER CLASSES

FEEDER STEERS (Medium and Large 1-2) Wt. Range Avg. Wt. CWT Avg. Price 400-450 422 $248.98 $1,050.70 450-500 472 $251.96 $1,189.25 500-550 521 $248.70 $1,295.73 550-600 566 $248.56 $1,406.85 600-650 626 $238.78 $1,494.76 650-700 660 $239.98 $1,583.87

FEEDER BULLS (Medium and Large 1-2) Wt. Range Avg. Wt. CWT Avg. Price 400-450 418 $246.74 $1,031.37 450-500 467 $238.96 $1,115.94 500-550 513 $230.77 $1,183.85 550-600 566 $219.34 $1,241.46 600-650 629 $220.00 $1,383.80 650-700 674 $199.88 $1,347.19

FEEDER HEIFERS (Medium and Large 1-2) Wt. Range Avg. Wt. CWT Avg. Price 400-450 422 $219.39 $925.83 450-500 461 $219.85 $1,013.51 500-550 538 $218.75 $1,176.88 550-600 573 $203.25 $1,164.62 600-650 615 $207.52 $1,276.25 650-700 ---$-------$----------

Source: S.C. Dept. of Agriculture - USDA Market News Service, Columbia, S.C. - 803-737-4491

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q DECEMBER 2023

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CHUCK

SHANK

CHUCK

BRISKET

RIB

PLATE

LOIN

SIRLOIN

ROUND SHANK

FLANK

RIB

LOIN

SIRLOIN

LEAN

LEAN

LEAN

LEAN

LEAN

ROUND

INGEDIENT CUTS

LEAN

LEAN

LEAN

LEAN

LEAN

LEAN

LEAN

LEAN

LEAN

LEAN

LEAN

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LEAN

LEAN

LEAN

LEAN

LEAN

LEAN

LEAN

LEAN

LEAN

BRISKET LEAN

LEAN

PLATE & FLANK LEAN

LEAN

KEY TO RECOMMENDED COOKING METHODS GRILL or BROIL PAN BROIL/ SKILLET

BRAISE/ POT ROAST

LEAN

These cuts meet the government guidelines for lean, based on cooked servings, visible fat trimmed

STIR-FRY

ROAST

SKILLET TO OVEN

* MARINATE BEFORE COOKING FOR BEST RESULTS

A cut of cooked fresh meat is considered ‘lean’ when it contains less than 10 grams of total fat, 4.5 grams or less of saturated fat, andless tahn 95 mg of cholesterol per 100 grams(3½ oz) and per RACC (Reference Amount Customarily Consumed), which is 85 grams (3 oz.)

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INDIRECT GRILLING

The Carolina Cattle Connection q DECEMBER 2023

Federation of State Beef Councils Update Most Americans Eat Beef Within Dietary Guidelines. United States beef farmers and ranchers do more than anyone to invest in beef nutrition research and to encourage enjoyment of beef in a way that aligns with the Dietary Guidelines for Americans. Across the country, people are looking for healthier ways to eat, and they are choosing beef as a source of protein and other vitamins and minerals because it is a delicious food that is part of many cultural ways of eating. Strong science supports the flexibility to enjoy beef as the protein of choice and empowers Americans to choose beef in a wider variety of healthy, sustainable dietary patterns.

Despite the scientific evidence that beef can play a role in a healthy lifestyle, there is a common misconception that Americans overconsume beef. However, recent Beef Checkoff funded research shows that most Americans are eating beef within Dietary Guidelines.3 The study’s results suggest that beef is not overconsumed by the majority of Americans, and dietary guidance to limit or reduce beef intake could be viewed as not being evidence based and could exacerbate the growing nutrient deficiencies in America.

Although nearly 70 percent of Americans eat beef at least once per week 1, beef consumption has declined in at risk populations, such as the disadvantaged, pregnant, young, and aging, creating nutrient gaps and deficiencies.3 Nutrient dense beef can help fill those gaps, providing iron, zinc, protein, and B vitamins. 2, 4-9 In addition, more than 65 percent of fresh beef cuts sold at the grocery store meet government guidelines for lean, 10,11 and numerous randomized controlled trials consistently show that when beef is included in healthy dietary patterns, it supports cardiometabolic health, and reduces the risk of chronic disease.12-16 New evidence recently published in the research journal Obesity also adds to the growing body of evidence demonstrating the benefits of higher protein diets, including their impact on supporting weight loss and improving Type 2 Diabetes (T2D) status.

The study found that a balanced diet higher in protein (40 percent protein of total energy) and a diet with moderate protein (21 percent protein of total energy), combined with regular exercise, are both effective in reversing T2D factors by supporting glucose control, weight loss, and improvements in fat mass and lean body mass percentages. 17 Taste plays a role as well, and people are more likely to maintain a healthy diet if it is also satisfying

and enjoyable. This study shows that people can continue to include fresh lean beef (four or more times per week), which is many Americans’ preferred protein food, as part of diets that effectively support weight loss.

The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA), a contractor to the Beef Checkoff, continues to invest in nutrition research that provides scientific evidence that beef can be part of a healthy lifestyle and provides the basis for comments that are submitted to the Dietary Guidelines for Americans Advisory Committee.

Every five years, the United States Department of Agriculture and the United States Department of Health and Human Services partner to review the scientific evidence directing nutrition policy, federal nutrition programs, and what health professionals recommend to their patients.

NCBA’s nutrition team stays involved in the process by conducting relevant and high quality research to feed into the pipeline of evidence used to advise the scientific report for the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, in addition to submitting written and oral comments for consideration.

Nutrition research continues to be the foundation for Beef Checkoff funded outreach to consumers and health professionals, helping to keep beef as the protein of choice in a healthy lifestyle. For more information, visit www.BeefResearch.org.

References 1 Consumer Beef Tracker, JanuaryDecember 2022 2 U.S. Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, Nutrient Data Laboratory. 2019. FoodData Central.

Available at fdc.nal.usda.gov (Beef composite, cooked - NDB Number: 13364).

3 Lau, C.S., Fulgoni, V.L., 3 rd, Van Elswyk, M.E., McNeill, S.H. Trends in Beef Intake in the United States: Analysis of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, 2001-2018. Nutrients 2023; 15(11): 2475. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu15112475.

4 U.S. Department of Agriculture and U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. 2020. Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2020-2025. 9th Edition. www. dietaryguidelines.gov.

5 Agarwal, S., Fulgoni, V.L., 3 rd.

Contribution of beef to key nutrient intakes in American adults: an updated analysis with NHANES 2011-2018. Nutr Res 2022; 105: 105-112. https://doi. org/10.1016/j.nutres.2022.06.009.

6 Darmon, N., Drewnowski, A. Contribution of food prices and diet cost

to socioeconomic disparities in diet quality and health: a systematic review and analysis. Nutr Rev 2015; 73(10): 643-660. https://doi.org/10.1093/nutrit/nuv027.

7 Eicher-Miller, H.A., Mason, A.C., Weaver, C.M., McCabe, G.P., & Boushey, C.J. (2009). Food insecurity is associated with iron deficiency anemia in U.S. adolescents. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 90(5), 1358–1371. https://doi.org/10.3945/ajcn.2009.27886 8 Sun, H., & Weaver, C.M. (2021).

Decreased Iron Intake Parallels Rising Iron Deficiency Anemia and Related Mortality Rates in the U.S. Population.

The Journal of Nutrition, 151(7), 1947– 1955. https://doi.org/10.1093/jn/nxab064 9 Killeen, S.L., Geraghty, A.A., O’Brien, E.C., O’Reilly, S.L., Yelverton, C.A., & McAuliffe, F.M. (2022). Addressing the gaps in nutritional care before and during pregnancy. The Proceedings of the Nutrition Society, 81(1), 87–98. https://doi. org/10.1017/S0029665121003724 10 National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, a Contractor to the Beef Checkoff Program.

Lean Matters: Chronicling Beef ’s Change from Gate to Plate. 2014. Available at https://embed.widencdn.net/download/beef/ iyg5bxcz6u/LeanMatters_Web.pdf?u=q5atpk 11 FreshLook Marketing Data, 52 weeks ending 9/29/2013 12 Fleming, J.A., Kris-Etherton, P.M., Petersen, K.S., Baer, D.J. Effect of varying quantities of lean beef as part of a Mediterranean-style dietary pattern on lipids and lipoproteins: a randomized crossover controlled feeding trial. Am J Clin Nutr 2021; 113(5): 1126-1136.

The Carolina Cattle Connection

https://doi.org/10.1093/ajcn/nqaa375.

13 Maki, K.C., Wilcox, M.L., Dicklin, M.R., Buggia, M., Palacios, O.M., Maki, C.E., Kramer, M. Substituting Lean Beef for Carbohydrate in a Healthy Dietary Pattern Does Not Adversely Affect the Cardiometabolic Risk Factor Profile in Men and Women at Risk for Type 2 Diabetes. J Nutr 2020; 150(7): 18241833. https://doi.org/10.1093/jn/nxaa116.

14 O’Connor, L.E., Paddon-Jones, D., Wright, A.J., Campbell, W.W. A Mediterranean-style eating pattern with lean, unprocessed red meat has cardiometabolic benefits for adults who are overweight or obese in a randomized, crossover, controlled feeding trial. Am J Clin Nutr 2018; 108(1): 33-40. https://doi.org/10.1093/ajcn/nqy075.

15 Roussell, M.A., Hill, A.M., Gaugler, T.L., West, S.G., Heuvel, J.P., Alaupovic, P., Gillies, P.J., Kris-Etherton, P.M. Beef in an Optimal Lean Diet study: effects on lipids, lipoproteins, and apolipoproteins.

Am J Clin Nutr 2012; 95(1): 9-16. https:// doi.org/10.3945/ajcn.111.016261.

16 Roussell, M.A., Hill, A.M., Gaugler, T.L., West, S.G., Ulbrecht, J.S., Vanden Heuvel, J.P., Gillies, P.J., Kris-Etherton, P.M. Effects of a DASH-like diet containing lean beef on vascular health.

J Hum Hypertens 2014; 28(10): 600-605. https://doi.org/10.1038/jhh.2014.34.

17 Clina, J.G., Sayer, R.D., Pan, Z., Cohen, C.W., McDermott, M.T., Catenacci, V.A., Wyatt, H.R., Hill, J.O. High, and normal protein diets result in favorable changes in body composition and glucose control in adults with type 2 diabetes. Obesity 2023. doi pending

q DECEMBER 2023

PAGE 65

Beef Promotion and Research Program

PRIVATE TREATY SALES CHECKOFF INVESTMENT FORM Information is required by (7 CRF 1260.201). Failure to report can result in a fine.

Information is held confidential (7 CRF 1260.203).

Today’s Date: ________________ Seller’s Name: ____________________________

Buyer’s Name: ____________________________

Address: _________________________________

Address: _________________________________

City: ________________ State: ____ Zip: ______

City: ________________ State: ____ Zip: ______

Seller’s Signature: _________________________

Buyer’s Signature: _________________________

Both the seller & the buyer are responsible for making sure that the $1.50 per head assessment is collected and remitted to the Beef Promotion & Research Board.

Total Number of Cattle Sold: ___________________ x $1.50 Per Head = $ _______________________ Date of Sale: __________________

Person remitting assessment form:

Seller

o

Buyer

o

* State of Origin of Cattle: ______________________ * If the cattle purchased came from another state within the last 30 days, indicate from which state the cattle were purchased.

Send Report and Remittance to:

SOUTH CAROLINA BEEF COUNCIL P.O. Box 11280 Columbia, SC 29211 According to the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, an agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not required to respond to a collection of information unless it displays a valid OMB control number. The valid OMB control number for this information collection is 0581-0093. The time required to complete this information collection is estimated to average 1.8 minutes per response, including the time for reviewing instructions, searching existing data sources, gathering and maintaining the data needed, and completing and reviewing the collection of information.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) prohibits discrimination in all its programs and activities on the basis of race, color, national origin, gender, religion, age, disbility, sexual orientation, marital or family status, political beliefs, parental status, or protected genetic information. (Not all prohibited bases apply to all programs.) Persons with disabilities who require alternative means for communication of program information (Braille, large print, audiotape, etc.) should contact USDA’s TARGET Center at 202-720-2600 (voice and TDD).

To file a complaint of discrimination, write USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, Room 326-W, Whitten Building, 14th and Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-9410 or call 202-720-5964 (voice and TDD). USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

PAGE 66

The Carolina Cattle Connection q DECEMBER 2023

NCBA News

2024 Environmental Stewardship Award Program Nominations Now Open. Annual Award Recognizes Stewardship Efforts of Cattle Producers.

Nominations are now open for the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) Environmental Stewardship Award. Established in 1991, the Environmental Stewardship Award Program (ESAP) annually recognizes outstanding stewardship practices and conservation achievements of cattle producers across the nation.

“Cattle producers across the country are committed to conserving natural resources for future generations,” said NCBA President Todd Wilkinson. “This award celebrates the innovative efforts our industry is undertaking to protect the environment, engage with communities, and remain profitable.”

Any individual, group, or organization is eligible to nominate one individual or business raising or feeding cattle. Individuals and families may not nominate themselves, although nominees may be involved in the preparation of the application. Past nominees are encouraged to resubmit applications; however, previous winners may not reapply.

Along with a typed application, one nomination letter and three letters of recommendation highlighting the nominee’s leadership in conservation are required, and the deadline is March 8, 2024. Nominees do not have to be members of NCBA but should support the objectives of their state and national organizations.

Award winners are selected by a committee of representatives from universities, cattle production, conservation organizations, as well as federal and state agencies. For guidance, the judges consider the management of water, wildlife, vegetation, air, and soil, along with leadership abilities and the sustainability of the business.

Regional winners will be recognized at CattleCon25 in San Antonio, Texas, in February 2025, and the national winner will be announced at the Celebration of America’s Land Stewards Event in Washington, D.C., in spring 2025. Travel and registration for these events are provided by ESAP for winners.

The Environmental Stewardship

Award Program is an initiative of the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association and the National Cattlemen’s Foundation and is made possible with generous support from Corteva Agriscience, U.S. Department of Agriculture Natural Resources Conservation Service, McDonald’s, and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. For more information and to download the nomination packet, visit www.environmentalstewardship.org.

NCBA Again Strongly Opposes USDA’s Decision to Allow Paraguayan Beef Imports. NCBA strongly opposes the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) decision to allow Paraguayan beef imports, which started this month.

NCBA has repeatedly raised concerns with USDA over Paraguay’s history of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) and the outdated information used to justify Paraguay’s access to the U.S. market.

NCBA is concerned that USDA’s failure to use information from recent site visits in the risk assessment may pose great risk to the safety of the U.S. cattle herd.

“USDA based their decision to allow beef imports from Paraguay on a deeply flawed risk assessment that uses old data from site visits that were conducted more than nine years ago. Paraguay has a history of FMD outbreaks, and it is unclear if their inspection system can provide an equivalent level of safety for animal health to prevent a possible FMD outbreak on U.S. soil,” said NCBA Executive Director of Government Affairs Kent Bacus. “Paraguay heavily relies on private sector funding for most of its FMD mitigation measures, and USDA did not consider the risk associated with Paraguay’s economic downturn over the last several years.

“Gaining beef access to the U.S. market has been the top priority for Paraguay in multiple rounds of trade discussions. Unfortunately, this is not the first time that a foreign country’s beef access to the United States was a pre-determined outcome and used as a bargaining tool for other U.S. interests.

The dismissal of legitimate concerns from U.S. cattle producers is unacceptable, and USDA should halt this unscientific, unsafe rulemaking. While winning friends and allies in South America may be part of the long term interests of U.S.

diplomacy, it should not be done on the backs of U.S. cattle producers or by putting at risk the health and livelihood of the safest and most efficient cattle and beef production system in the world.”

Background - NCBA filed comments earlier this year calling on USDA to continue blocking fresh beef imports from Paraguay due to Paraguay’s history of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) and the outdated information from site visits in 2008 and 2014 that were used to justify Paraguay’s access. NCBA also raised concerns about Paraguay’s ability to fund and administer FMD safeguards and called into question the security of the borders they share with other countries, including Brazil. NCBA urged USDA to continue the ban on Paraguayan beef imports until a thorough review can be conducted and U.S. cattle producers are assured Paraguay is able to provide an equivalent level of safety for U.S. consumers and livestock.

Cattle Producers Praise Farm Bill Extension, Urges for Swift Passage.

NCBA praised Congress for passing a government funding package that includes a one year extension of the 2018 Farm Bill through September 30, 2024,

The Carolina Cattle Connection

and extends the Livestock Mandatory Reporting program until January 19, 2024.

“NCBA is thankful for Congress passing legislation extending critical programs that farmers and ranchers across the country depend on. These extensions give much needed certainty to cattle producers, and NCBA will continue engaging with Congress and the Biden Administration as they work to deliver a long term Farm Bill, as well as a clean reauthorization of Livestock Mandatory Reporting,” said NCBA President Todd Wilkinson, a South Dakota cattle producer. “With so much work still left to do, I urge President Biden to swiftly sign this continuing resolution.”

About the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association. NCBA has represented America’s cattle producers since 1898, preserving the heritage and strength of the industry through education and public policy. As the largest association of cattle producers, NCBA works to create new markets and increase demand for beef. Efforts are made possible through membership contributions. To join, contact NCBA at 866-BEEF-USA or membership@beef.org.

q DECEMBER 2023

PAGE 67

NEWS • The weaning rate will likely drop.

• The weight of calves at weaning may be lighter.

• The cash costs and returns per cow will be lower compared to the costs and returns associated with supplementation.

which, in turn, has a direct impact on colostrum and milk production. Research conducted at universities has shown that when cows go from a condition score of 4-5 (on a nine point scale), their pregnancy rates increase by 25 percent, the calving interval shortens, and calves’ average daily gains and weaning weights improve. Additionally, supplemental protein helps unlock more energy from the forages cattle are consuming by improving the overall digestibility of that forage.

Here are some monetary values linked to these results: • The average Crystalyx protein barrel costs around 50 cents per head per day to supplement. This translates to

The chart below, which Jon explored in detail in a previous blog, does a good job of illustrating the tangible results of doing nothing based on calves selling at $250/cwt. In today’s cattle market, you should be striving to do everything you can to capitalize on strong calf values.

Providing the nutrients cattle need in the form of Crystalyx helps producers improve their operational efficiency, get more cows bred — and bred earlier in the breeding season — and, in turn, produce more and heavier calves to market. As the chart here makes clear, producers who choose not to supplement may be leaving money on the table.

Reproductive performance can also be influenced by body condition —

around $75 per head for a 150 day period.

• Raising the cows’ body condition scores from a 4 to a 5 could potentially result in getting 25 percent more calves, who will also be more efficient and heavier at the time of weaning. In a 100head herd getting a conservative $250/cwt calf price for 500 lb. calves (not taking into account the difference in weaning weights), having 25 more calves would lead to an increase in profitability of more than $30,000!

Long story short: Producers who choose not to supplement and subsequently stay in a body condition score of 4 could be losing out on a significant amount of money. The ROI is there; take advantage of it!

By JILL PEINE, Ridley Block Operations

The Cost of Not Supplementing The cost of doing nothing - As we wrap up this Crystalyx blog series, which addresses an important question -”Does Crystalyx Pencil Out? - I have been thinking back to the comment on one of our social media posts that inspired this series: “Longtime Crystalyx fan…the price point don’t work anymore for us. Great product, but don’t pencil out this year.”

While the input costs on just about everything have been increasing in recent years, at the same time, cash flow may also be tighter for some people than it was in the past. As such, some are being forced to make hard decisions about how much they are able to spend on things like supplementation. But what is the real cost of doing nothing?

From my perspective, supplementation can be looked at in either one of two ways: as simply an added expense or as a necessity that helps deliver the nutrients cattle need to achieve optimal production. Let’s take a closer look at how doing nothing right now can end up costing us down the line.

Reproductive efficiency - It has been said time and time again that reproductive efficiency is the main profit driver in a beef cow operation, as it also relates to calving distribution, weaning rates, and cull rates. If a cow isn’t producing one live calf each year, she is costing the operation money rather than contributing to its profits. With this in mind, here are some of the common consequences of doing nothing with a supplementation program:

January

February

Darlington

1,205

Laurens

2023 South Carolina Sale Barn Cattle Receipts

The cost of a mineral program Even when supplemental protein is not required due to higher quality forages being fed, the research continues to tell us that animals will perform more efficiently on grass if any macro and trace mineral deficiencies are corrected. Research from Ridley Block Operations has specifically shown improved gains in yearlings that are supplemented with a mineral block — and even more efficient gains have been seen when yearlings are supplemented with an ionophore, such as the Bovatec included in Crystalyx Ionolyx.

We have previously looked at examples of how “saving costs” by not supplementing leads to lower returns per cow compared to a typical mineral supplement program. Blueprint offers an even more advanced program backed by substantial data and results that have included improvements in conception rates, weaning weights, and pre-weaning calf mortalities.

The cost of not supplementing is even more significant when we consider the improved performance associated with mineral supplementation. Delivering minerals in a barrel form, on the other hand, not only provides nutritional benefits for cows but also helps producers save on labor, as it does not require any equipment. With a Crystalyx mineral program, you can provide a palatable source of mineral that more cattle will consume more consistently, helping you get better results and adding to the returns on your investment.

Grazing distribution - In a previous blog, Mark Robbins outlined the latest grazing distribution research and what it means for producers. Land prices and value continue to increase, and as a result, it is critical to utilize the land and the available forages cattle graze on to their fullest potential.

Crystalyx is a multitasker, as it not only serves as a self fed and nutritional supplement but also helps you move your cattle to the places where you want them to graze. Without a solution like

March

April

May

June

July

August

September

October

1,103

2,424

1,360

1,973

1,547

921

1,789

1,138

1,921

1,755

1,219

1,619

1,506

1,593

1,616

911

1,484

1,328

1,460

Orangeburg

998

1,093

1,214

966

1,308

936

778

1,032

1,170

949

Saluda

2,785

2,511

2,739

2,670

3,311

3,585

2,122

3,854

3,713

3,553

Williamston

2,646

2,220

2,975

2,321

2,413

3,000

1,848

2,938

2,654

2,598

PAGE 68

The Carolina Cattle Connection q DECEMBER 2023

November

December

Crystalyx, producers could potentially experience the following: • Diminished forage utilization • Increased costs as a result of overgrazed pastures • A need for more land if cattle aren’t going out to distribute grazing in pastures • An increased demand for labor to move cattle instead of letting the supplement do the work Health - As you could probably have guessed when it comes to animal health, the hidden costs of not supplementing are just as serious as the costs outlined in the examples above. We can throw all of the vaccines, medicines, and pharmaceuticals in the world at a cow, yearling, or calf.

Still, if the mineral and vitamin status of the animal is depleted, those solutions — which can be very expensive — won’t be very effective.

As the saying goes, “An apple a day keeps the doctor away,” and that adage rings true with cattle. If we provide our animals with the nutrients they need, they will be more likely to stay healthy or to have a stronger immune system that will help defend them from sickness and disease, keeping the need for doctoring at bay. Healthy cattle make us more money; on the other side of the coin, treatments aren’t cheap. Providing a Crystalyx supplement — or better yet, a Crystalyx Blueprint supplement — to help keep cattle on the right track health wise will translate to more money in your pocket, thanks to the calves being marketed running across the scale or to the cows raising calves in the pasture.

Doing nothing is costly - If you’re sharpening your pencils and putting them to paper to determine the kind of returns

you could expect when supplementing with Crystalyx versus doing nothing at all, at this point, the answer should be relatively obvious. The consistent and controlled intake that producers have seen over and over again with Crystalyx makes it an outstanding option for providing your animals with the right nutrition. While not supplementing may save you money today, in the long run, you will be missing out on the significant ROI associated with utilizing a mineral program — including improved reproductive performance, grazing distribution, and health, which all lead to a profitable bottom line.

If you, like our social media follower mentioned above, find yourself thinking that Crystalyx “doesn’t pencil out this year,” think about it this way instead: The current price of Crystalyx is lower than it was one year ago. Over the last year, the value of a CattleFax 550 pound calf has increased by $450, from $1,106 per head to $1,558 per head. The “lower cost” of doing nothing a year ago actually ended up costing you $2 for every pound you did not get across the scale on a weaned calf. This year, it will cost you even more — close to $3 per pound. The additional

pounds on a weaned calf have never been more profitable. So, run it past me again: How could this program not work for you?

We hope this blog series has been beneficial for you and your operation.

We understand that the cost of production has gone up, along with the cost of nearly everything else — but choosing to do nothing right now in favor of potentially saving a little bit of money will cost a lot more in the long run in terms of both efficiency and profitability. As proven throughout this blog series, the answer to our question is clear: Crystalyx does, in fact, pencil out.

NOTICE

Letters to the editor are welcome and we appreciate your input.

HOWEVER, letters that are not signed will not be considered for publication.

West End Precast 276-228-5024

PRECAST CONCRETE FEED BUNKS Truckload Discount - $10/each

J-Bunks - $200

U-Bunks - $200

Calf Bunks - $150

Water Troughs - $150 Pads - $250 Tanks

Prices FOB Wytheville, Virginia • Delivery Available The Carolina Cattle Connection

q DECEMBER 2023

PAGE 69

NEWS BioZyme Inc. Hires National Small Ruminant and Show Livestock Business Development Manager.

Sam Silvers of Junction, Tex., is the new National Small Ruminant and Show Livestock Business Development Manager for BioZyme Inc. In his role, he will use his expertise to help grow the market share for the sheep, goat, and show livestock product lines in the BioZyme family of brands. Silvers is no stranger to the BioZyme team, as he previously worked as an Area Sales Manager in West Texas for three years.

“I’m excited to return to BioZyme and promote brands and products I have a passion for, working specifically in the small ruminant and livestock sectors. I am looking forward to working with the team of folks that is in place and our dealer network to growing those sectors. I am

PAGE 70

eager to grow our product offerings in the future,” Silvers said.

Silvers has an extensive background in the livestock industry, having raised sheep since he was nine years old. He and his family continue to successfully raise show lambs as well as commercial sheep and goats. He earned his master’s degree in Ag Science from Texas A&M, Kingsville. He received his bachelor’s from Texas Tech and also attended South Plains Community College, where he participated on the livestock judging team.

Silvers has worked as a county extension agent, sold farm and ranch real estate, and also sold livestock mortality insurance. He most recently worked as a territory sales manager for an animal nutrition company. He and his wife, Jurahee, have two children. In addition to spending time involved in the livestock

The Carolina Cattle Connection q DECEMBER 2023

industry and with his family, he enjoys hunting in his free time.

“I was thrilled to get Sam back on our team. His wealth of knowledge, especially in the sheep and goat industries, is unmatched, and he will help take us to the next level. We know that his passion for and knowledge of show livestock is going to help our business grow. It’s a great opportunity for both BioZyme and Sam,” said Alan Lee, BioZyme’s Director of Domestic Sales.

Silvers will continue to work closely with the sales, marketing, and product development teams to ensure that the DuraFerm and Sure Champ product lines are properly positioned. His passion for sheep, goats, and show livestock will help ensure that these brands continue to grow in popularity.

About BioZyme Inc. BioZyme Inc., founded in 1951, develops and manufactures natural, proprietary products focused on animal nutrition, health, and microbiology. With a continued commitment to research, BioZyme offers a complete line of feed additives and high

density, highly available vitamin, mineral, trace mineral, and protein supplements for a variety of animals, including cattle, pigs, poultry, sheep, goats, horses, and dogs.

BioZyme brands include AO-Biotics ®, VitaFerm®, Gain Smart®, Vita Charge®, Sure Champ®, Vitalize®, DuraFerm®, and Backyard Boost®. With headquarters in St. Joseph, Missouri, the company reaches a global market of customers that stretches into countries across five continents. For more information about BioZyme, visit www.biozymeinc.com.

Don’t get caught napping!

Deadline is 5th of month prior to issue!

The Carolina Cattle Connection

q DECEMBER 2023

PAGE 71

NEWS

NAFA Releases 2024 Alfalfa Variety Ratings. The National Alfalfa & Forage Alliance (NAFA) released the 2024 edition of its popular “Alfalfa Variety Ratings - Winter Survival, Fall Dormancy & Pest Resistant Ratings for Alfalfa Varieties” - a useful tool for hay and livestock farmers, extension specialists, agri-business personnel or anyone involved in the production of alfalfa.

NAFA’s Alfalfa Variety Ratings is a publication unlike any other in providing an extensive listing of alfalfa varieties and their corresponding ratings for fall dormancy, winter survival, bacterial wilt, aphanomyces, leafhopper, and a host of other pests. The publication also includes other ratings, such as grazing tolerance and standability, to provide you with the information you need to make educated

decisions about the alfalfa varieties that will perform best in a given environment.

All varieties listed in the Alfalfa Variety Ratings publication can be purchased in the United States for the 2024 production year.

The 2024 edition of NAFA’s Alfalfa Variety Ratings features 161 alfalfa varieties from 15 marketers that have been verified with the Association of Official Seed Certifying Agencies (AOSCA) and the National Alfalfa Variety Review Board (NAVRB).

If you’d prefer an electronic option, try NAFA’s searchable, online Alfalfa Variety Ratings database, where you can make the process of narrowing alfalfa varietal choices even easier. Available at www.alfalfa.org/varietyratings.php, NAFA’s searchable database allows you to search for varieties using up to 23

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Shelmer Blackburn, Jr.

919-270-1522 • shelmerblackburn@hotmail.com

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The Carolina Cattle Connection q DECEMBER 2023

different parameters like variety name, marketer, fall dormancy, winter survival, disease resistance, and insect resistance.

NAFA has made finding the perfect variety as effortless as possible.

NAFA’s Alfalfa Variety Ratings publication is available by visiting NAFA’s website at www.alfalfa.org.

NAFA’s Alfalfa Variety Ratings is a must-have for anyone involved in the production of alfalfa – be sure to get yours today!

About the National Alfalfa & Forage Alliance. Formed in 2006, NAFA is an umbrella organization of state and regional alfalfa seed and alfalfa hay associations, genetic suppliers, seed marketers, and allied industry members dedicated to promoting the interests of the nation’s alfalfa, alfalfa seed, and forage producers through education, research, promotion, and advocacy.

NAFA’s primary focus is issue

advocacy and policy development/ implementation in all areas affecting the alfalfa seed and forage industry, such as federal research funding, farm policy, agricultural coexistence, crop insurance, environmental regulation, and biotechnology.

NAFA educational activities focus on its highly respected and popular Alfalfa Intensive Training Seminar, held each fall and featuring the latest information with regard to genetics, varieties, seed production, growth and development, soils, fertility, management, and a host of other topics intended to give participants the knowledge they need to make the most of their alfalfa investment.

NAFA is governed by a 27 member board of directors, which includes alfalfa seed and forage producers, university researchers, and representatives from allied industry organizations who guide the direction of NAFA activities.

NEWS

FDA grants supplemental claims for dairy and beef replacement heifers.

Pennchlor and Rumensin approved in combination for more producers. Over the past year, cattle producers had the opportunity to harness the therapeutic potential of Pennchlor (chlortetracycline Type A medicated article), coupled with the coccidiosis control and performance enhancements offered by Rumensin (monensin Type A medicated article) in their starter rations. But now, two new supplemental claims are available for the well established combination of Pennchlor and Rumensin. These additional claims now extend this combination’s therapeutic advantages for dairy and beef replacement heifers.

At a time when input costs, including feed, are above historic levels, the ability to use these products in combination gives producers more options to improve the sustainability and efficiency of their business.

In addition to their well established benefits, these additional claims offer a more comprehensive solution for the health and growth of replacement beef and dairy heifers. The combination of Pennchlor and Rumensin effectively treats bacterial enteritis caused by Escherichia coli and bacterial pneumonia caused by Pasteurella multocida, provided these pathogens are susceptible to chlortetracycline. Additionally, it promotes an increased rate of weight gain and aids in the prevention and control of coccidiosis due to Eimeria bovis and Eimeria zuernii.

“With these expanded claims, we are not only enhancing animal health but also giving producers more flexibility to adapt

their treatment and feed programs and to optimize performance in their dairy and beef replacement heifers,” adds Dr. Padraig Lucey, Elanco dairy technical consultant.

“We are delighted to provide these new claims for dairy and beef replacement heifers. This reflects our unwavering commitment to deliver innovative solutions that empower livestock producers to produce healthier, more productive herds,” says Lisa Wallace, Pharmgate Animal Health marketing manager.

Contact your Elanco or Pharmgate representative for additional information or your cattle veterinarian and/or nutritionist. To access labeling or other forms, go to www.pharmgate.com/usa.

The label contains complete use information, including cautions and warnings. Always read, understand, and follow the label and use directions.

Federal law restricts medicated feed containing this veterinary feed directive (VFD) drug to use by or on the order of a licensed veterinarian.

About Pharmgate Animal Health.

Pharmgate Animal Health provides the livestock and poultry industry with a proven portfolio of technically supported, high quality products that are the foundation of custom herd and flock health protocols. Founded in 2008, the company is headquartered in Wilmington, N.C., with FDA approved pharmaceutical production facilities in Omaha, Neb., and vaccine research and manufacturing operations in St. Paul, Minnesota. To learn more about Pharmgate Animal Health or to find a local representative, visit www.Pharmgate.com/usa.

About Elanco Animal Health.

Elanco is a global leader in animal health dedicated to innovating and delivering products and services to prevent and treat disease in farm animals and pets, creating value for farmers, pet owners, veterinarians, stakeholders, and society as a whole. With nearly 70 years of animal health heritage, we are committed to helping our customers improve the

health of animals in their care, while also making a meaningful impact on our local and global communities. At Elanco, we’re driven by our vision of Food and Companionship Enriching Life and our approach to sustainability, Elanco Healthy Purpose – all to advance the health of animals, people, the planet, and our enterprise. Learn more at www. elanco.com.

Our advertisers are “Champions” too. For expert A.I., superior genetics, the best in purebreds and outstanding farm supplies, check the Classifieds in this issue!

The Carolina Cattle Connection

q DECEMBER 2023

PAGE 73

2023 S.C. State Fair Beef Cattle Shows Results

By STAN CLEMENTS The 2023 S.C. State Fair Beef Cattle Shows were held October 19-21 in Columbia, South Carolina. Eddie Holland of Bluffton, Tex., sorted the 177 head in the 13 breed open shows. Exhibitors came from North Carolina, Florida, and South Carolina. The junior shows were comprised of 11 breeds totaling 108 head, evaluated by Clay McGuire of Centerton, Arkansas.

Reserve champion Charolais heifer, shown

by Zoey Clary

Reserve champion Red Angus heifer, shown

by Kelsey White

Reserve champion Simmental heifer, shown

by Ellie Harmon

Junior Show Results

Grand champion All Other Breeds/Crossbred heifer, shown by Audrey-Kate Bolt

Grand champion Gelbvieh/Balancer heifer, shown by Maci Newton

Grand champion Shorthorn heifer, shown by Trey Davis Grand champion Zebu/Zebu Crosses heifer, shown by Jade Young

Reserve champion All Other Breeds/ Crossbred heifer, shown by Savannah Evans Reserve champion Gelbvieh/Balancer heifer, shown by Anna Grace Clary

Reserve champion Shorthorn heifer, shown

by Emalie Mattison

Reserve champion Zebu/Zebu Crosses heifer, shown by Ty Morton

Grand champion Angus heifer, shown by Tripp Bourne

Reserve champion Angus heifer, shown by Madison Evans

Grand champion Charolais heifer, shown by Trey Davis

PAGE 74

Grand champion Hereford heifer, shown by Amberlyn Christenbury

Reserve champion Hereford heifer, shown by Amberlyn Christenbury

Grand champion Red Angus heifer, shown by Gracie Simpson

The Carolina Cattle Connection q DECEMBER 2023

Grand champion SimAngus heifer, shown by Trey Davis

Grand champion steer, shown by Blaine Abruzzino Reserve champion SimAngus heifer, shown

by Ross Arthur

Grand champion Simmental heifer, shown by Lillian Wilkins

Reserve champion steer, shown by AubreyKate Bolt

Open Show Results

Grand champion All Other Breeds/Crossbred heifer, shown by Trey Davis

Reserve champion All Other Breeds/ Crossbred heifer, shown by Savannah Evans

Grand champion Angus & supreme overall heifer, shown by Audrey-Kate Bolt

Grand champion Brahman heifer, shown by Blain Peerson

Reserve champion Brahman heifer, shown by Easton Fehr

Grand champion Brahman bull, shown by Tyler Salazar

Grand champion Charolais bull, shown by Casey Evans

Grand champion Gelbvieh/Balancer heifer, shown by Maci Newton

Grand champion Hereford bull, shown by Matthew Garber

Reserve champion Hereford bull, shown by Cedar Creek Farms

Reserve champion Gelbvieh/Balancer heifer, shown by Molly Anderson

Miniature Zebu Champion Challenge heifer, shown by E.C. Ahern

Reserve champion Angus heifer, shown by Maci Newton

Reserve champion Brahman bull, shown by Jackie Phillips

Grand champion Gelbvieh/Balancer bull, shown by Caitlin Newton

Grand champion Red Angus heifer, shown by Kelsey White

Grand champion Hereford heifer, shown by Amberlyn Christenbury Grand champion Angus bull, shown by Breanna Black

Grand champion Charolais heifer, shown by Trey Davis

Grand champion Santa Gertrudis heifer, shown by Nathan Barlowe

Reserve champion Angus bull, shown by Hailee Campbell

Reserve champion Charolais heifer, shown

by Hannah White

Reserve champion Hereford heifer, shown by Matthew Garber

The Carolina Cattle Connection

q DECEMBER 2023

PAGE 75

Reserve champion Santa Gertrudis heifer, shown by Nathan Barlowe

Grand champion Santa Gertrudis bull, shown by Nathan Barlowe

Reserve champion Santa Gertrudis bull, shown by Nathan Barlowe

Reserve champion Shorthorn heifer, shown

by Tori Templeton

Grand champion SimAngus heifer, shown by Trey Davis

Reserve champion SimAngus heifer, shown

by Ross Arthur

Grand champion SimAngus bull, shown by Brandon Weber Grand champion Shorthorn heifer, shown by Trey Davis

Reserve champion SimAngus bull, shown by Matthew Garber

Grand champion Simmental heifer, shown by Cayden Souza

Reserve champion Simmental heifer, shown

by Brandon Weber

Reserve champion Simmental bull, shown by Lillian Wilkins

Grand champion Zebu/Zebu Crosses heifer, shown by Jayden Souza

Reserve champion Zebu/Zebu Crosses heifer, shown by Casey Evans

Grand champion Simmental bull, shown by Brandon Weber

Any news from your county? Be sure to share your meetings, sales, field days, etc., with your fellow cattlemen through the Connection!

PAGE 76

The Carolina Cattle Connection q DECEMBER 2023

NEWS

By LACEY FAHRMEIER, DVM, Valley Vet Supply

Three Steps to Take for a More Productive New Year on Your Operation Now is the time to conduct a year-inreview with your herd health veterinarian.

Help progress your operation forward into the New Year. It’s really important to make a conscious effort to analyze this past year’s herd health and objectively reflect on what worked and what didn’t. Doing so will help guide decisions for an even better year ahead and maximize the success of your operation from an animal health perspective.

Now is the time to have these conversations – you really don’t want to be discussing your neonatal calf health plan when you have three scouring calves on your mudroom floor in January.

During what I refer to as the ‘offseason’ for veterinarians – when the dust settles on fall work – is the best time for you and your veterinarian to invest time in planning for the coming year. Now is the ideal time to have these conversations, not when you’re in the middle of a herd health outbreak or are running on fumes during the heat of calving season.

Having two way communication is the foundation of a productive veterinarian-client-patient relationship (VCPR). With that in mind, let’s go over the three steps I feel are invaluable.

Step 1: Review outcomes from the previous year’s health protocol, successes, and any room for improvement - Telling your veterinarian about any issues you are facing will allow them to help you address those concerns and solve problems. To enhance your operation’s overall health and profitability, here is a quick checklist of things I feel should be evaluated every year.

Cow herd • Conception rate from the previous year compared to others • Reproductive goals for the herd and whether they were met • Any increased rate of abortions or stillbirths • Level of body condition • Any increase in diseases, such as pinkeye or foot rot Calf crop • Overall neonatal health: mortality, sickness, response to treatment, vigor, etc.

• Any specific disease challenges, such as summer pneumonia while out on pasture

• Calf performance, including weaning weight • If you retained ownership, how calves performed in the next sector of the industry • Any feedback from buyers relating to calf health, all the way to the rail or breeding Overall herd health protocol (vaccinations, deworming, and antibiotics) • Efficacy of programs based on year’s performance • Any adjustments you feel may be needed • Administration logistics and timing • Whether the first line of antibiotic treatment remains effective or if any additional treatment options were necessary • Any new marketing strategies that may impact the program, for example, moving to an all natural program Step 2: Explore new technologies available on the market and outline any questions you may have for your veterinarian - As veterinarians, we want to be a resource for you, and we hope that you feel comfortable coming to us with questions. Because of this, I feel inquiry is another important aspect of this conversation with your veterinarian. This is a good time to share whatever is top of mind for you as a producer. Maybe you have heard about a new technology; speak with your veterinarian about their opinion.

Could it be a good fit for your program, and is it cost effective? Prep a list of questions you may have about the science behind it while you have that expert in the room.

In addition to asking about any new technologies in the market, inquire about any new research. Things are constantly evolving, especially in the arena of immunology. Employing evidence based medicine is paramount for any operation to help ensure herd health and productivity.

It’s important to sit down and find out if we have learned anything new in the past year that might alter your current plan.

Asking us questions is not a hindrance by any means – we want to help. The clients that I enjoy working with the most are the ones who push me

to continually raise the bar. They are the ones who ask the hard questions and are constantly wanting to do better.

Step 3: Develop a plan for the coming year or make any adjustments necessary to the previous year’s plan to ensure success and positive strides - So, you have reviewed the past year’s wins and losses, and you have talked about potential new technologies with your veterinarian. Now, in the final component of the discussion, utilize all of this information to develop a plan for the upcoming year if you did not have a protocol in place – or make any necessary changes to the previous year’s plan to better serve you moving forward.

I encourage you to walk away from this process with actionable tasks; you don’t want to let those ideas and the enthusiasm that you have for your program fizzle out after the meeting. Have some actionable items such as three main goals we are going to try to improve upon this year, here’s how we’re going to do it, and when.

To make things easier on you both, adhering to schedules and timelines, go ahead and look to calendars to schedule out important herd work with your veterinarian.

One last thought is that having this nice, beautiful herd health plan provides a great baseline to guide us. But keep in mind that things can happen, challenges can arise that we cannot foresee, and we have to be willing to be adaptable and pivot. Having this baseline will help to guide you, help you remain profitable, and help to maximize animal health.

I encourage producers to ask questions and to not blindly adhere to a protocol just because it’s the way we have always done it. Review outcomes, ask questions, and work closely with your veterinarian in a year-in-review to ensure a more productive year ahead.

About Valley Vet Supply. Valley Vet Supply was founded in 1985 by veterinarians to provide customers with trusted animal health solutions. Building on over half a century of experience in veterinary medicine, Valley Vet Supply serves equine, pet, and livestock owners with thousands of products and medications. With an in-house pharmacy that is licensed in all 50 states and verified through the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy (NABP), Valley Vet Supply is the dedicated source for customers’ horse, livestock, and pet needs. For more information, please visit www.ValleyVet.com.

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The Carolina Cattle Connection

Linn, Kansas

q DECEMBER 2023

PAGE 77

2023 N.C. State Fair Beef Cattle Show Results Open Show Results

Reserve champion Angus heifer, shown by Emma Vanhoy

Reserve champion Charolais heifer, shown

by Mattie Harward

Reserve champion Hereford heifer, shown by Nora Cave

Grand champion All Other Breeds heifer, shown by Marcie Harward

Grand champion Angus bull, shown by Russell Wood

Grand champion Charolais cow/calf pair, shown by Hope Latta

Grand champion Hereford & reserve supreme cow/calf pair, shown by Wayne Mitchem

Reserve champion All Other Breeds heifer, shown by Macie Ledford

Grand champion Gelbvieh heifer, shown by Molly Anderson

Reserve champion Hereford cow/calf pair, shown by Wyatt McCoy

Grand champion Belted Galloway heifer, shown by Abigail Gant Grand champion All Other Breeds bull, shown by JK Red Angus

Grand champion Hereford bull, shown by Nora Cave Reserve champion Gelbvieh heifer, shown by Molly Anderson

Grand champion Belted Galloway bull, shown by Abigail Gant Reserve champion All Other Breeds bull, shown by Savannah McIntire Grand champion Gelbvieh bull & reserve supreme bull, shown by Karl Holshouser

Grand champion Angus heifer, shown by Hannah Vanhoy

PAGE 78

Grand champion Charolais heifer, shown by Mattie Harward

The Carolina Cattle Connection q DECEMBER 2023

Grand champion Hereford heifer, shown by Wayne Mitchem

Reserve champion Hereford bull, shown by Nora Cave

Grand champion Limousin & supreme overall heifer shown, by Shane Kendall

Reserve champion Limousin heifer, shown by Gage Kildow

Reserve champion Percentage Simmental heifer, shown by Cooper Joines

Reserve champion Red Angus heifer, shown

by Jonathan Presnell Grand champion Piedmontese bull, shown by A.J. Strickland

Grand champion Percentage Simmental & supreme overall cow/calf pair, Brandon Weber

Grand champion Red Angus bull, shown by Charlie Thomas

Grand champion Miniature Hereford heifer, shown by Cow Swamp Creek Farms

Reserve champion Piedmontese bull, shown

by Ed Johnson

Reserve champion Miniature Hereford heifer, shown by Cow Swamp Creek Farms

Grand champion Percentage Simmental & supreme overall bull, shown by Virginia Tech Beef Center

Reserve champion Red Angus bull, shown by Rex Howard

Grand champion Tenderlean cow/calf pair, shown by A.J. Strickland

Grand champion Miniature Hereford bull, shown by Wyatt Knotts

Reserve champion Percentage Simmental bull, shown by Amber Stephens Grand champion Santa Gertrudis heifer, shown by Nathan Barlowe

Grand champion Piedmontese heifer, shown

by Jamie Hennerburg Reserve champion Miniature Hereford bull, shown by Kimberly Oosthuizen

Grand champion Percentage Simmental & reserve supreme overall heifer, shown by Shelby Candler

Grand champion Tenderlean bull, shown by Larry Strickland Reserve champion Santa Gertrudis heifer, shown by Nathan Barlowe

Reserve champion Piedmontese heifer, shown by Deanna Pettaway

Grand champion Red Angus heifer, shown by Marcie Harward

The Carolina Cattle Connection

Grand champion Santa Gertrudis cow/calf pair, shown by Nathan Barlowe

q DECEMBER 2023

PAGE 79

Junior Show Results

Grand champion Santa Gertrudis bull, shown by Nathan Barlowe

Grand champion Simmental bull, shown by Charlie Thomas

Grand champion Crossbred market steer, shown by Schyler Crocker Grand champion progress & overall feeder calf, shown by Ross Hinnant

Reserve champion Crossbred market steer, shown by Peyton Taylor

Reserve champion Santa Gertrudis bull, shown by Nathan Barlowe

Reserve champion & champion Got to be NC progress feeder calf, shown by Mary Baker Reserve champion Simmental bull, shown by Virginia Tech Beef Center

Grand champion Got to be NC market steer, shown by Annah Claire Sullivan

Grand champion Shorthorn heifer, shown by Chad Holloman

Grand champion Star 5 heifer, shown by Morse View Farm

Grand champion prospect & reserve champion overall feeder calf, champion prospect & overall Got to be NC feeder calf, shown by Liza Sullivan

Grand champion & champion Got to be NC All Other Breeds heifer, shown by Kaylee Pittman

Reserve champion Shorthorn heifer, shown

by Caleb Davis

Reserve champion Star 5 heifer, shown by Morse View Farm

Reserve champion prospect feeder calf, shown by Hope Latta

Grand champion & champion Got to be NC British breed market steer, shown by Ella Holder

Grand champion Simmental heifer, shown by Brandon Weber

Reserve champion & reserve champion Got to be NC All Other Breeds heifer, shown by Kate Hinnant

Grand champion Star 5 bull, shown by Morse View Farm

Reserve champion Simmental heifer, shown

by Marcie Harward

PAGE 80

The Carolina Cattle Connection q DECEMBER 2023

Reserve champion British breed market steer, shown by Avareese Branch

Grand champion Angus & supreme overall heifer, shown by Hannah Vanhoy

Grand champion Hereford heifer, shown by Jordan Mitchem Grand champion Got to be NC Angus heifer, shown by Charleigh Birdsell

Grand champion Commercial heifer, shown

by Peyton Taylor

Reserve champion Commercial heifer, shown

by Rex Howard

Grand champion Got to be NC Commercial heifer, shown by Mattie Harward

Grand champion Gelbvieh heifer, shown by Molly Anderson

Reserve champion & grand champion Got to be NC Gelbvieh heifer, shown by Molly Anderson

Reserve champion & champion Got to be NC Hereford, & reserve supreme overall heifer, shown by Shelby Candler

Grand champion Got to be NC Percentage Simmental heifer, shown by Abigail Blankenship

Grand champion Red Angus heifer, shown by Marcie Harward

Grand champion Got to be NC Santa Gertrudis/Star 5 heifer, shown by Mazie Bunn

Grand champion Shorthorn/Shorthorn Plus heifer, shown by Sophie Marshall

Grand champion & champion Got to be NC Limousin, reserve supreme overall & supreme overall Got to be NC heifer, shown

by Shane Kendall Reserve champion Red Angus heifer, shown

by Allie Edwards

Reserve champion & reserve champion Got to be NC Limousin heifer, shown by Gage Kildow

Grand champion Percentage Simmental heifer, shown by Shelby Candler

Reserve champion Percentage Simmental heifer, shown by Peyton Taylor

Grand champion Got to be NC Red Angus heifer, shown by Hannah Vanhoy

Grand champion Santa Gertrudis/Star 5 heifer, shown by Josh Bowman

Reserve champion Santa Gertrudis/Star 5 heifer, shown by Josh Bowman

The Carolina Cattle Connection

Grand champion Got to be NC Shorthorn/ Shorthorn Plus heifer, shown by Caleb Davis

Grand champion Simmental heifer, shown by Hagan Jones

Reserve champion Simmental heifer, shown

by Evie Jones

Grand champion Got to be NC Simmental heifer, shown by Nate Bowman

q DECEMBER 2023

PAGE 81

...

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ANIMAL H EALTH

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Joe and Robin Hampton

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345 Withrows Creek Lane Mt. Ulla, NC 28125

704-880-2488

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Cell: 803-385-8161 Email: djosey@truvista.net

519 Morgan Mill Rd., Monroe, NC 28112 704-289-5083 • 704-289-1696 • 800-222-8638

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Breeding Registered Angus since 1962

20977 US Hwy 76 • Newberry, SC 29108 Walter Shealy • 803-924-1000 Dixon Shealy • 803-629-1174 walter@blackgrove.com • dixon@blackgrove.com www.blackgrove.com

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QUALITY GELBVIEH, ANGUS, & BALANCER CATTLE

Ernest B. Harris President

Phone: 252-257-2140 Mobile: 252-430-9595 ®

DUANE & WENDY STRIDER, OWNERS

Duane Cell: 336-964-6277 • Wendy Cell: 336-964-5127 Home: 336-381-3640 • Fax: 910-428-4568 ccrosscattle@yahoo.com • ccrosscattle.com THE HERD THAT CONSISTENTLY PRODUCES CATTLE WITH PERFORMANCE, CARCASS, AND EYE APPEAL.

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2610 Kee Moore Drive Chester, SC 29706

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Cattle Available Private Treaty John Wheeler • 910-489-0024 doublejfarm@yahoo.com • www.doublejfarmllc.com Headquarters - 775 Clacton Circle • Earlysville, VA 22936 Cattle located in Traphill, N.C.

SPRINGFIELD ANGUS 104 Springfield Lane Louisburg, NC 27549

Phil Goodson: 919-880-9062 • Performance Tested • Ultrasound and 50K Evaluated • Registered Angus Bulls

CATTLE FOR SALE PRIVATE TREATY AT ALL TIMES!

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Carcass Data • Fescue Suited • Southern Bred EPDs Breeding Soundness Exam on Two-Year-Old Bulls

Norris Fowler - 864-219-0182 Greg - 864-426-7337 • Rogers - 864-426-3281 www.fowkenfarm.com

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ALL

Tarheel Angus/4K Farm Production Sale

RICHARD KIRKMAN, DVM

20416 US 64 West Siler City, NC 27344-0350 919-742-5500 • rdkirkman@centurylink.net

Autryville, NC 28318 www.howardbrosfarms.com

Darryl Howard Cell: 910-990-2791

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by DECEMBER 5!

BBU Registered Beefmaster Bulls and Females

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PAGE 82

Regular Copy for the

Jonathan Massey

336-260-2565 • jonathan.massey2@gmail.com

Johnny Massey

336-214-4144 • johnnymassey.1@gmail.com

The Carolina Cattle Connection q DECEMBER 2023

ALL

Spotlight Material for the

JANUARY ISSUE

by DECEMBER 1!

NDEX OF 15th Annual EBS Select Bull & Female Sale .......................................... 31 4K Farms/Tarheel Angus .................................................................... 82 48th Annual Union County Performance Tested Bull Sale .................... 67 72nd Annual N.C. Cattle Conference — SAVE THE DATE ........................ 2 All American Panel ............................................................................. 43 American National Insurance — The Josey Agency ............................ 82 Apple Brandy Prime Cuts ................................................................... 21 Back Creek Angus .............................................................................. 82 Baxley Family Farms Annual Production Sale .................................... 41 Biltmore Livestock ........................................................................... 29 BioZyme ............................................................................................ 71 Black Crest Angus 26th Annual Production Sale — SAVE THE DATE ..... 34 Black Grove Angus ............................................................................. 82 Brubaker Family Angus ...................................................................... 82 Brushy Mountain Genetics Angus & Horned Hereford Bull & Female Sale ................................ 32 Bull Hill Ranch 13th Annual “More Bull for Your Buck” Production Sale .................. 13 C-Cross Cattle Company .................................................................... 82 Carolinas Animal Health ................................................................... 82 Childers Concrete Company, Inc. ....................................................... 70 Conquest Insurance Agency, Inc. ....................................................... 76 Cuffy Creek Farm — CATTLE FOR SALE ............................................... 50 Double J Farms .................................................................................. 82 E.B. Harris Auctioneers, Inc. .............................................................. 82 First Choice Insurance Partners — Donna Byrum .............................. 18 Flatlands Insurance Group — Ruth Fulford ....................................... 27 Fowken Farms .................................................................................... 82 FPL Food LLC ...................................................................................... 19 Fred Smith Company Ranch ............................................................... 82 Howard Brothers Farms ..................................................................... 82 Hunt’s H+ Brangus ............................................................................ 82 IRM Red Books — FOR SALE ................................................................. 3 L.E. Smith Cattle Equipment .............................................................. 77

For Your Advertising Needs, Contact: The Carolina Cattle Connection • 919-552-9111 The Livestock Advertising Network • 859-278-0899

DVERTISERS Mid-Atlantic Cattle Sales — Stockyard Schedules .............................. 49 N.C. Angus Association Directory …................................................... 37 N.C. Cattle Conference Sponsorship Opportunity ............................... 2 N.C. Cattlemen’s Association Membership Application .................... 46 N.C. Forage & Grasslands Council Winter Conference ....................... 28 N.C. Hereford Association Directory ................................................. 26 N.C. Meat Suite .................................................................................. 73 N.C. Simmental Association .............................................................. 38 National Beef Checkoff/ North Carolina Cattle Industry Assessment ................................... 15 National Cattlemen’s Beef Association 2023 Farm Bill Priorities ... 53 National Cattlemen’s Beef Association 2023 Policy Priorities ........... 56 National Cattlemen’s Beef Association Membership Application ... 55 National Cattlemen’s Beef Association Recruitment ........................ 54 Pasture Management & N.C. Cattlemen’s Association “Mile of Fence” Membership Program ........................................... 44 Pearson Livestock Equipment ........................................................... 39 Premier Select Sires — 2023 Fall Beef Semen Specials ...................... 61 Red Angus Association of America .................................................... 10 Red Angus Association of the Carolinas Directory .............................. 9 Rusty Thomson & Family Cattle Fencing and Equipment ................... 11 Saluda County Cattlemen’s Association 32nd Annual Replacement Heifer Sale ............................................ 51 SimAngus Solution ........................................................................... 82 Smith Creek Angus Farms — CATTLE FOR SALE ................................. 36 South Carolina Private Treaty Sale Checkoff Investment Form ......... 66 Springfield Angus ............................................................................. 82 The Barn Loft — Purina ..................................................................... 43 The Carolina Cattle Connection 2023 Spotlight Schedule .................... 8 The Carolina Cattle Connection Advertising Rates & Sizes ................ 47 Tokeena Angus Annual Sale .............................................................. 33 Virginia Herd Health Management Services ..................................... 14 West End Precast — Feed Bunks ......................................................... 17 West End Precast — Feed Bunks & Troughs ........................................ 69 Whitehall Beefmasters ...................................................................... 82 Wilders Wagyu .................................................................................. 82 Wilders Wagyu — THANK YOU ........................................................... 23 Wilkes Livestock Exchange ............................................................... 72 Yon Family Farms Spring Sale ........................................................... 30 The Carolina Cattle Connection

q DECEMBER 2023

PAGE 83

VENTS ANGUS Dec. 1 — Knoll Crest Farm Total Performance Bull Sale, Red House, Va. Dec. 2 — 8th Pounds & Profit Bull & Female Sale, Asheboro, N.C. Dec. 2 — N.C. BCIP Performance Tested Bull Sale, Canton, N.C. Dec. 2 — 48th Annual Union County Performance Tested Bull Sale, Monroe, N.C. Dec. 9 — Brushy Mountain Genetics Bull & Female Sale, Taylorsville, N.C. Dec. 15 — N.C. BCIP Performance Tested Bull Sale, Oxford, N.C. 2024 Jan. 6 — 15th Annual EBS Select Bull & Female Sale, Monroe, N.C. Jan. 13 — Baxley Family Farms Annual Production Sale, Georgetown, S.C.

Jan. 27 — Tokeena Angus Annual Sale, Seneca, S.C. Feb. 8 — 31st Edition UGA Focus on Genomic Enhanced EPDs Sale, Athens, Ga. Feb. 10 — Black Crest Farm 26th Annual Production Sale, Sumter, S.C. Feb. 17 — Yon Family Farms Spring Bull & Female Sale, Ridge Spring, S.C. Feb. 24 — Blue Ridge Brutes Bull & Commercial Female Sale, Mt. Airy, N.C Feb. 24 — Saluda County Cattlemen’s Association 32nd Annual Replacement Heifer Sale, Saluda, S.C. Apr. 13 — Knoll Crest Farm Spring Bull & Female Sale, Red House, Va. Sep. 28 — Biltmore Livestock Sale, Asheville, NC

HE

IDE

It was Christmas Eve in at the meat counter and a woman was anxiously picking over the last few remaining turkeys in the hope of finding a large one.

In desperation she called over a shop assistant and said, “Excuse me. Do these turkeys get any bigger?”

“No, madam,” he replied, “they’re all dead.”

*

*

*

Little Susie had been born with a sunny disposition, and was the most optimistic kid anybody had ever seen. She loved people and animals, and no matter what happened, she always saw the bright side.

She was also an artistic girl. So one Christmas, her parents got her a big bag of clay for making pottery. They put it on the back porch next to a bag of horse manure for the garden.

On Christmas Eve, dad wrapped the presents. It was a little dark on the porch, and as you may have guessed, he wrapped the manure by mistake, instead of the pottery clay.

On Christmas morning, Susie was so excited to see what Santa had brought her. When she finally got to unwrap her big present, her parents watched with

PAGE 84

anticipation to see how much she liked her clay.

When Susie opened the package, and then the bag inside containing several pounds of stinky horse manure, the parents were aghast.

But before they could apologize, Susie said, “Oh boy! I got a pony!

*

*

*

A couple were Christmas shopping.

The shopping center was packed and as the wife walked through one of the malls she was surprised when she looked around to find that her husband was nowhere to be seen.

She was quite upset because they had a lot to do and so she became so worried that she called him on her mobile phone to ask him where he was.

In a quiet voice he said, “Do you remember the jewellers we went into about five years ago where you fell in love with that diamond necklace that we couldn’t afford, and I told you that I would get it for you one day?”

The wife choked up and started to cry and said, “Yes, I do remember that shop.”

He replied, “Well, I’m in the bar next door.”

The Carolina Cattle Connection q DECEMBER 2023

Black Hereford Dec. 9 — 21st Annual Charolais Source Bull Sale, Shelby, N.C. Charolais Dec. 2 — 8th Pounds & Profit Bull & Female Sale, Asheboro, N.C. Dec. 9 — 21st Annual Charolais Source Bull Sale, Shelby, N.C. GELBVIEH Dec. 1 — Knoll Crest Farm Total Performance Bull Sale, Red House, Va. Dec. 2 — N.C. BCIP Performance Tested Bull Sale, Canton, N.C. Dec. 2 — 48th Annual Union County Performance Tested Bull Sale, Monroe, N.C. 2024 Feb. 24 — Blue Ridge Brutes Bull & Commercial Female Sale, Mt. Airy, N.C Feb. 24 — Saluda County Cattlemen’s Association 32nd Annual Replacement Heifer Sale, Saluda, S.C. Apr. 13 — Knoll Crest Farm Spring Bull & Female Sale, Red House, Va. HEREFORD Dec. 1 — Knoll Crest Farm Total Performance Bull Sale, Red House, Va. Dec. 2 — N.C. BCIP Performance Tested Bull Sale, Canton, N.C. Dec. 9 — Brushy Mountain Genetics Bull & Female Sale, Taylorsville, N.C. Dec. 15 — N.C. BCIP Performance Tested Bull Sale, Oxford, N.C. 2024 Feb. 8 — 31st Edition UGA Focus on Genomic Enhanced EPDs Sale, Athens, Ga. Feb. 24 — Saluda County Cattlemen’s Association 32nd Annual Replacement Heifer Sale, Saluda, S.C. Apr. 13 — Knoll Crest Farm Spring Bull & Female Sale, Red House, Va. Red Angus Dec. 15 — N.C. BCIP Performance Tested Bull Sale, Oxford, N.C. 2024 Jan. 20 — Bull Hill Ranch 13th Annual “More Bull for Your Buck” Production Sale, Gray Court, S.C. SIMMENTAL Dec. 2 — N.C. BCIP Performance Tested Bull Sale, Canton, N.C. Dec. 2 — 48th Annual Union County Performance Tested Bull Sale, Monroe, N.C. Dec. 15 — N.C. BCIP Performance Tested Bull Sale, Oxford, N.C. 2024 Jan. 13 — Baxley Family Farms Annual Production Sale, Georgetown, S.C. Feb. 24 — Saluda County Cattlemen’s Association 32nd Annual Replacement Heifer Sale, Saluda, S.C.

Commercial cattle Dec. 2 — 8th Pounds & Profit Bull & Female Sale, Asheboro, N.C. 2024 Jan. 6 — 15th Annual EBS Select Bull & Female Sale, Monroe, N.C. Feb. 8 — 31st Edition UGA Focus on Genomic Enhanced EPDs Sale, Athens, Ga. Feb. 24 — Blue Ridge Brutes Bull & Commercial Female Sale, Mt. Airy, N.C OTHER EVENTS 2024 Feb. 22 — N.C. Forage & Grasslands Council Winter Conference, Hickory, N.C. Feb. 23-24 — 72nd Annual N.C. Cattle Conference, Hickory, N.C. Livestock market sales Dec. 4 — Harward Brothers Livestock Market Weekly Sale, Statesville, N.C. Dec. 6 — Stanly County Livestock Market Weekly Sale, Norwood, N.C. Dec. 6 — Wilkes Livestock Exchange Weekly Sale, North Wilkesboro, N.C. Dec. 11 — Harward Brothers Livestock Market Weekly Sale, Statesville, N.C. Dec. 12 — Mid-Atlantic Cattle Sales Video Auction, via macsvideo.com Dec. 13 — Stanly County Livestock Market Weekly Sale, Norwood, N.C. Dec. 13 — Wilkes Livestock Exchange Weekly Sale, North Wilkesboro, N.C. Dec. 18 — Harward Brothers Livestock Market Weekly Sale, Statesville, N.C. Dec. 20 — Stanly County Livestock Market Weekly Sale, Norwood, N.C. Dec. 20 — Wilkes Livestock Exchange Weekly Sale, North Wilkesboro, N.C. 2024 Jan. 8 — Harward Brothers Livestock Market Weekly Sale, Statesville, N.C. Jan. 10 — Stanly County Livestock Market Weekly Sale, Norwood, N.C. Jan. 10 — Wilkes Livestock Exchange Weekly Sale, North Wilkesboro, N.C. Jan. 5 — Harward Brothers Livestock Market Weekly Sale, Statesville, N.C. Jan. 7 — Stanly County Livestock Market Weekly Sale, Norwood, N.C. Jan. 7 — Wilkes Livestock Exchange Weekly Sale, North Wilkesboro, N.C. Jan. 22 — Harward Brothers Livestock Market Weekly Sale, Statesville, N.C. Jan. 24 — Stanly County Livestock Market Weekly Sale, Norwood, N.C. Jan. 4 — Wilkes Livestock Exchange Weekly Sale, North Wilkesboro, N.C. Jan. 9 — Harward Brothers Livestock Market Weekly Sale, Statesville, N.C. Jan. 31— Stanly County Livestock Market Weekly Sale, Norwood, N.C. Jan. 31 — Wilkes Livestock Exchange Weekly Sale, North Wilkesboro, N.C.

Addit i Produ onal Capa ction city N ow!

CALL

US!