Buy, raise, feed the best
Learning from the past to improve performance, Galen Reece of Sawyer, Kan., bought a variety of cattle over the years before shifting to high-quality cattle with proven genetics.
Recently a harvest group of 36 steers he bought on Superior Livestock Auction and fed at Pratt Feeders made better than 94% CAB and Prime. They also performed exceptionally well in the feedlot, gaining 4.05 lb. per day with a 5.40 conversion rate of feed to gain.
“In our 40,000-head-capacity feedlot, his cattle are in the top 10% to 15%,” says Pratt Feeders manager Jerry Bohn.
Reece stresses the importance of bulls with the genetics to produce high quality, and makes it a practice to buy only calves sired by Gardiner Angus Ranch bulls. Along with the added value of premiums and greater efficiencies, Reece says the cattle generally have better health as well.
“It doesn’t cost much more to own a really good calf,” Bohn says. “And the benefits at the end more than offset the upfront costs.”
Taking that to heart on his ranch, Reece started his own herd a couple of years ago using the same brand of genetics, while continuing to buy from repeat sources on the video auction.
You may also like
From Modest Beginnings to Excellence
Gilchrist Farm recently received the 2024 Certified Angus Beef Canadian Commitment to Excellence award. This prestigious honor recognizes their exceptional achievements in high-quality Angus genetics and management. Over the years, they have transformed their operation by embracing superior Angus genetics. Their commitment to high standards and innovative practices has distinguished them as a model of excellence in the industry.
From White House to Farmhouse
At Pleasant Valley Farm in Brookville, MD, four generations of the Stabler family have blended tradition and innovation to create a thriving, diversified Angus operation. Honored with the Ambassador Award at the 2024 Certified Angus Beef (CAB) Annual Conference, the Stablers exemplify a commitment to sustainable farming, community engagement and educational outreach. Their significant contributions to the hosting on behalf of the CAB brand highlight their commitment and play a key role in receiving this award.
What’s Good for the Cattle, Is Good for the Wetlands
JY Ferry & Son, Inc., named the 2024 Certified Angus Beef Sustainability Award winner, exemplifies how sustainability in agriculture can bridge quality beef production, land stewardship, and wildlife management. At JY Ferry & Son, what’s good for the cattle is good for the wetlands—and good for the next generation of this multi-generational family business.