Issuu

J FEEDERS

CATTLE GUARDS

BUNK FEEDERS

LINE FEEDERS

WATER PADS

We offer a large array of concrete products from cattle bunks to water tanks. Also offering used guardrail, t-post, cattle guards and poly pipe round bale feeders. Whether you own a few acres or a few hundred, we have something for you.

Improving Life On You Land Since 1945

www.neatcompaniesgroup.com

•

call today 606-787-7600

Improving Life On Your Land Since 1945

eat Ad - 4.5x4.indd 1

tlemens Show Ad-12.12.2017.indd 1 2

TARTERUSA.COM

CALL TODAY AT 1-800-346-4486

COW COUNTRY •

CALL TODAY AT 1-800-346-4486 12/14/17 12:08 PM

JANUARY 2021

Cattlemens Show Ad-12.12.2017.indd 1

TARTERUSA.COM

12/18/17 1:03 PM

• A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E K E N T U C K Y C AT T L E M E N ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N

COW COUNTRY •

JANUARY 2021

• A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E K E N T U C K Y C AT T L E M E N ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N

TA B L E O F C O N T E N T S C O LU M N ISTS

7 Steve Dunning: President’s Thoughts 8 Dave Maples: From Dave’s Desk 9 Ryan Quarles: Commissioner’s Corner 10 Baxter Black: Pleasure Horse 12 Nathan Lawson: Checking on the Checkoff 23 Candice Smith: How To Avoid Liability for Farm Activities 24 Dr. Michelle Arnold: Blackleg: Frequently Asked Ques- tions 78 Dr. Darrh Bullock: What You Need To Know About the 2021 CAIP Bull Purchase Program

F E ATURE STORIE S 16 KCA Convention 2021 26 New Report Assess Impact of COVID-19 on Consumer Behaviors 28 USMEF Strategic Planning Conference 30 Gov. Beshear and Kentucky Agricultural Development Board Ap- prove Nearly $7 Million for Projects Across the Commonwealth 34 Dr. Katie Flynn Promoted To Kentucky State Vet Position; Dr. Alex Hagan Selected for Deputy State Vet Slot 36 Strong October for Pork and Beef Muscle Cut Exports; Variety Meat Trends Lower 38 Twin Calves Lead To New Wheelchair for Clinton County Man 40 New Tool Helps Farmers and Ranchers Develop Custom Biosecurity Plan for Disease Prevention 41 National Farm Machinery Show and Championship Tractor Pull Moves Dates To March 31-April 3 42 North American International Livestock Exposition Completes Suc- cessful Show 44 USDA Announces Appointments to the Cattlemen’s Beef Promotion and Research Board 48 Preparing Your Cow for a Successful Breeding Season 50 Why Should Crossbreeding Be Implemented in Your Herd? 52 End-of-Year Tax Planning for Farmers and Ranchers 54 Virtual Winter Wheat Meeting Jan. 5, 8 58 Farmer-Researcher Partnerships Are Backbone of Agricultural Ad- vances 74 Growing Efficient Pounds Equals Growing Money 14 County News 20-22 Economic & Policy Update 32 NCBA Legislative Update 62-63 Membership 64-65 Kentucky Beef Council 66-67 Kentucky Beef Network 69 Kentucky Angus Association News 76 Calendar of Events 76 Advertisers Index 77 Market Report 77 Classifieds

COW COUNTRY •

8th APRIL 3, 2021 ● 1 PM Bull sale will immediately follow the Heifer Sale

LAUREL COUNTY CATTLEMEN SALE FACILITIES 3610 SLATE LICK CHURCH ROAD  LONDON, KY

for more information: Laurel County Extension Office..................... 606.864.4167 Wes Evans, Association President................. 606.682.1583 Glenn Williams, Ag Agent.............................. 606.682.0665

JANUARY 2021

• A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E K E N T U C K Y C AT T L E M E N ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N

OAK HOLLOW PERFORMANCE TESTED PUREBRED ANGUS CATTLE

THE PRICE OF GETTING IT RIGHT

The end of a year signals a time to start something most beef producers hate. No, I am not talking about feeding harvested feed every day. I am talking about year-end bookkeeping. Fortunately for my father and me, my mother is a very good CPA. She handles all the payments throughout the year and is on us about receipts and invoices constantly. She even breaks expenses down by category for us so we can plan and change for the next year if we think we aren’t getting a good return in a certain area. When we sit down and talk about our expenses in our meetings with our CPA, there is one category that always blows our mind. It is not hay expense, machinery costs or land payments. It is the cost of information given to us by professionals that is not actually a tangible good. I am not just talking what is spent a year in registrations and transfers with the American Angus Association. If I register calves while they’re still on the cow, it’s not too bad. It includes the $40 a head for a Genomic and PI-BVD test on nearly 300 calves a year. It includes the cost of performing breeding soundness exams on over 100 yearling bulls and 25 herd bulls a year. It includes the cost of a vet sticking his hand in almost 400 cows a year to tell us if they are bred or not, and the $18 per head on every calf at yearling for a carcass ultrasound scan by a technician out of Montana. That is the cost to tell us what they are and if they’re ready to go to work again next year. We are told we spend over $200 per cow-calf unit per year to get information on the cow and to get their calves through yearling. That is somewhere around $70,000 a year just on information. Those are not development costs to get them there. That is just the cost to tell me about them and have all the necessary the information to decide their role in the future of our cow herd. It doesn’t count the full days I spend behind a laptop submitting data. Those costs don’t even include the cost of an extra 30 seconds and extra person on every animal run through the chute to docility score and do foot score evaluations. It doesn’t count the day I spend doing hair shed evaluations on our entire cow herd for university research studies. It doesn’t count the time my father and I spend searching the entire Angus database for outcross genetics that can improve commercial cow-calf profitability for our customers. I learned in my economics classes that imperfect information leads to inefficient decision making in the market place. Incomplete information in your genetic selection leads to inefficient decision making in your cow herd. I used to have the opinion that if someone isn’t using a high percentage of their own bulls then why should you. I am now to the point that if they aren’t also collecting all the information then why should you use their bulls. Fertility, adaptability

COW COUNTRY •

JANUARY 2021

and feet are the biggest complaints I hear about across the southeast, but the number of breeders collecting and submitting heifer fertility data, hair shed data and foot scores is embarrassingly low. As you start thinking about your bull buying decisions this spring, ask yourself is that breeder talking about maternal function actually submitting their heifer fertility data and whole herd reporting to their breed associations. Do they actually care enough about fescue adaptability to collect the data? Do they actually care enough about improving feet to measure them and change them? If they aren’t willing to put that investment in their product, why should you invest in their genetics? In the end the cost of getting it wrong is way higher than the price of getting it right. - Joe K. Lowe II, M.S. Agricultural Economics

42ND FIRST CHOICE BULL SALE MONDAY, MARCH 29, 2021

SPRING COMMERCIAL COWS & HEIFERS FOR SALE SPRING REGISTERED COWS & HEIFERS FOR SALE 400 OAK HOLLOW DR. - SMITHS GROVE, KY KENNETH D. LOWE (270) 202-7186 JOE K. LOWE II (270) 202-4399

• A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E K E N T U C K Y C AT T L E M E N ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N

K E N T U C K Y CAT T L E M E N ’ S AS S O C I AT I O N 2 0 2 0 L E A D E R S H I P KCA REGIONAL DIRECTORS: REGION 1

Daniel Hayden, VP*.................(270) 570-2815 Buddy Cook.............................(270) 275-1274 Gary Woodall...........................(270) 725-0819 Ricky Haynes............................(270) 945-9057 Don Pemberton........................(270) 889-3885 Don Clements...........................(270) 389-0527 Mark Heimgartner...................(270) 875-2585 Jeremy Armstrong...................(270) 668-2056 John (JJ) Tucker....................(270) 617-0301 Dennis Wilson.........................(270) 952-1714 Caleb Jenkin............................(270) 952-0767

REGION 2

Joe Lowe, VP*.........................(270) 202-4399 Craig Thompson......................(270) 590-5174 Trent Jones.............................(270) 590-5266 Chuck Crutcher.......................(270) 272-6269 Alison Brockman....................(270) 403-3205 Steven Green..........................(270) 528-1720 Mike Bullock..........................(270) 792-9644 Dr. Kenneth Green...............(270) 589-7175 Adam Maulden.......................(270) 590-1005 Kirk Cecil.................................(270) 692-7698 Hunter Galloway....................(731) 332-0098 Rayetta Boone..........................(270) 230-5488 Adam Estes..............................(270) 537-3761 Phyllis Gentry..........................(502) 331-1146 Don Reynolds...........................(270) 528-5239 Andy Joe Moore.......................(270) 646-2458

KCA 2020 EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE OFFICERS: PRESIDENT

Steve Dunning 8200 Antioch Road Hopkinsville, KY 42240 (270) 498-8180

PRESIDENT ELECT Chris Cooper 2140 Tates Creek Road Richmond, KY 40475 (859) 200-7711

TREASURER

Ken Adams 90 E Horseshoe Ave. Upton, KY 42784 (270) 734-1443

PAST PRESIDENT Tim White 3664 Military Pike Lexington, KY 40513 (859) 509-5401

VICE PRESIDENT Cary King 250 Bright Leaf Drive Harrodsburg, KY 40330 (859) 734-2173

KCA PROGRAM CHAIRMAN Jeff Pettit 5745 US Highway 41 S Seebree, KY 42455

(270) 836-2963

KBC CHAIRMAN

Andy Bishop 6135 High Grove Road Cox’s Creek, KY 40013 (502) 350-7609

REGION 3

Danny Cooper, VP*...................(606) 782-4809 Wanda Hawkins.......................(502) 321-5602 Alan Bryant..............................(502) 548-1379 Maynard Stetten......................(502) 609-4986

KBN CHAIRMAN

Cary King 250 Bright Leaf Drive Harrodsburg, KY 40330 (859) 734-2173

Jere Caldwell† - Boyle Smith T. Powell† - Lincoln Larry Lovell† - Union John Masters† - Mason Seldon Hail† - Laurel Bob Vickery† - Wayne Glenn Mackie - Bourbon Dale Lovell - Muhlenberg Steve Henshaw† - Union Jerry Fraim - Grayson Glen Massengale† - Wayne Dell King - Christian Kenneth Lowe - Warren Dr. J.L.Cole - Monroe Harvey Mitchell - Mercer Jim Naive† - Spencer Shelby Hughes - Logan Hoppy Lovell - Barren Charles Miller - Jessamine Larry Clay - Perry

2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020

Randy Warner, VP*................(859) 771-5280 Lisa Baesler.............................(859) 509-5020 David Lemaster.......................(859) 749-0258 Ron Ray...................................(859) 825-8516 Donovan Pigg..........................(859) 749-9675 Danielle Harmon.....................(606) 748-8059 Ronnie Lowe...........................(606) 782-5058 Jason Crowe............................(859) 582-0761 Amy White..............................(859) 227-2552 Bruce Witt...............................(859) 585-8889 Brandon Sears.........................(502) 777-0738

REGION 5

Phillip Reese, VP*......................(859) 339-0450 Herman Benge.........................(606) 862-6451 Steve Downs...........................(270) 402-3672 Brent Woodrum......................(859) 397-1078 Anne Bays................................(615) 478-8450 Danny Ray Spalding................(859) 336-0444 Adam Chunglo.........................(859) 613-2985 C. Mike Spalding.....................(270) 669-6587 Brent Ware...............................(606) 379-5711 Gary Ford..................................(270) 402-2194 Aaron Burke..............................(859) 265-1172 Jared Foley...............................(270) 858-3900 * Denotes member of Executive committee

176 PASADENA DRIVE • LEXINGTON, KY 40503 • PHONE: (859) 278-0899 FAX: (859) 260-2060 • WWW.KYCATTLE.ORG • INFO@KYCATTLE.ORG

Jack Kimbrough† - Shelby Mark Williams - Crittenden Paul Napier - Lincoln Eddie Young - Washington Greg Ritter† - Barren Don Pemberton - Christian Billy Glenn Turpin - Madison Scotty Parsons - Christian Corinne Kephart - Shelby Greg Robey - Mercer Mike Bach - Bath Don Reynolds - Hart Steve Downs - Marion Gary Woodall - Logan David Lemaster - Clark Chuck Crutcher - Hardin Bobby Foree - Henry Tim White - Fayette Steve Dunnung - Christian

Executive Vice President Dave Maples

Membership Coordinator Nikki Whitaker

Director of Kentucky Beef Council Nathan Lawson

Publication Coordinator Carey Brown

Staff Accountant Kelly Tucker Director of Kentucky Beef Network Becky Thompson KBN Industry Coordinator Dan Miller KBC Director of Education Niki Ellis KBC Director of Product Development Katelyn Hawkins

†(Deceased)

COW COUNTRY •

REGION 4

VOLUME 34 • ISSUE 1

KCA’S PAST PRESIDENTS: 1972-73 1974-77 1978-79 1980-82 1983-85 1986-87 1988 1989 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001

Jerry Oak.................................(502) 525-7248 John Allison.............................(502) 220-3170 Lincoln Clifford........................(859) 954-0102 Allen Phillips............................(502) 829-5652 Phillip Douglas.........................(502) 845-4620 Amanda Hall............................(859) 333-5001 Nicole Goecke..........................(606) 782-2263

Graphic Designer Todd Brown Director of Communications Mackenzie Miller Video Production Specialist Danny Coy National Advertising Sales, Livestock Advertising Network, Debby Nichols (859) 321-8770, Cathy Campbell (609) 581-7644

COW COUNTRY NEWS is published monthly by THE KENTUCKY CATTLEMEN’S ASSOCIATION. The publisher reserves the right to refuse any material which he feels is unsuitable for the publication. Although the highest journalistic ethics will be maintained, the KENTUCKY CATTLEMEN’S ASSOCIATION limits its responsibilities for any errors, inaccuracies, or misprints in advertising or editorial copy. Advertisers and advertising agencies assume liability for all content of advertisements made against the publisher.

JANUARY 2021

• A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E K E N T U C K Y C AT T L E M E N ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N

PRESIDENT’S THOUGHTS STEVE DUNNING Kentucky Cattlemen’s Association President “My heroes have always been cowboys”, these words are not just lyrics to a song or a title to a Hollywood picture show. In fact, my heroes are just the opposite of the glitz and glamour associated with the Hollywood types. As Martina McBride stated at her performance at the NCBA trade show a couple of years back, “I’m so proud to be here in front of the real cowboys of America”. I am speaking of the real cowboys of Kentucky and I want to thank all of the past presidents of KCA that came before me. Their individual leadership qualities inspired me to want to succeed in this association and I especially want to thank the ones who served since I came onto the board in 2007. Don Pemberton from Christian County whom I still ask a lot of questions. Billy Glenn Turpin from Madison County, an educator who has given me plenty of valuable advice. Scotty Parsons from Christian County, a trusted ally and father figure. Corinne Kephart from Shelby County, possibly the best orator I have ever known. Greg Robey from Mercer County, a true gentleman. Mike Bach from Bath County, a real friend with a hands on approach to leadership. Don Reynolds from Hart County, a hard worker with sincerity in all he does. Steve Downs from Marion County, a friend who works hard at everything he does. Gary Woodall from Logan County, whom is the epitomy of leadership and an educator who I have become very good friends with. David Lemaster from Clark County, a down to earth cowboy who I also befriended. Chuck Crutcher from Hardin County, who constantly raised the bar for all KCA leaders and a true friend. Bobby Foree from Henry County, an intelectual gentleman counselor. Tim White from Fayette County, my predecessor who has a “let’s get ‘er done” approach to all tasks. All of these past presidents and the ones who came before them were great leaders of KCA and it is an honor to be in a class with these heroes. I want to thank my wife Julie for her unconditional support and her proofreading and text editing skills. All the past presidents advised me that making decisions, presiding over meetings and speechmaking was nothing compared to having to write this article every month COW COUNTRY •

JANUARY 2021

and having it done by deadline or face the wrath of Carey Brown. I, like them, chose to have it done by deadline! Chuck Crutcher referred to his beautiful late wife Sandy, as his co-pilot as they travelled to all county meetings across the Commonwealth. This too was my plan for Julie and I, except since I planned on actually flying to some of the county meetings, I was literally going to have co-pilot Julie navigating and talking to control towers. Sometimes plans don’t pan out exactly as anticipated. Oh well, when that happens you either back up and punt or you change course, pray and then go with the flow. I would like to thank all the wives and cattlewomen of KCA. You are the “rocks” who keep the cattlemen anchored and down to earth. And if the truth be known, all that we do as cattlemen is for you and our families. My faith has brought me a long way and I am only getting started. I know the good Lord has plans for me for some time and the skills that I have acquired from being a member of KCA and the advice I received from my heroes and the orchestrated organizational protocols that I witnessed as Dave Maples and his first class staff that he hand picked and trained will be something that I can always fall back on as I accept the next challenges in my life, whatever they may present. My faith in Jesus Christ has always been my guiding force and it has been such a privilege to be a steward of His land and cattle. I only hope that I have done half as good of a job as my father and mother before me did. My father taught me the basics of being a good caretaker of the land and cattle, and my mother, a very strong willed woman, encouraged and challenged me to succeed in whatever I aimed for. I have had the blessing of seeing the future of KCA and by that I mean the future leaders. Not only is KJCA (Kentucky Junior Cattlemen Association) producing some of the future leaders but Nikki Whitaker’s leadership class which I attended is bringing class leaders to the forefront. The Kentucky Cattlemans Association is

the most respected state association in the United States. I have gone to meetings from California to Washington DC with Dave Maples and I have always been in awe as state leaders from across the country try and angle in to get a few words with Dave or position themselves to learn some of his latest ideas. Any past president will tell you that they witnessed the same rituals. Dave and his team have built KCA to what it is today, but you will never hear him crow. I have always told him that he is too modest. KCA has a very bright future, starting with Chris Cooper as your 2021 president and Cary King as 2022 president elect. I am so proud of these two guys and consider both to be very good friends. Yes, KCA is in good hands. Yes, 2020 has been a difficult year and we have faced new hardships and challenges that we were not prepared for. But we faced them head on as cowboys always do. Like loading an irate bull that doesn’t want to be loaded. My total responsibility this year was to be giving all my time to KCA duties and with this in mind I even had to miss an in-person executive board meeting in October because I had been “exposed” three days earlier. My brother in law wasn’t as fortunate and is still fighting the lingering effects of the Covid19 virus. Thank you Chris Cooper for covering for me. We don’t know what lies ahead with this pandemic, but as Americans we will come out of this OK. This I know. I was

• A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E K E N T U C K Y C AT T L E M E N ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N

looking forward to convention and hopefully seeing everyone in person, meeting with the delegates, seeing all the Hall of Fame inductees acknowledged for their lifelong effort to KCA and also welcoming next year’s KCA president to his prestigious position. I pray that 2021 is a better year for all. About 20 years ago Lanny Boyd from Christian County convinced me to join KCA by showing me all the advantages of being a member. A couple of years later he pushed me to become a board member and later running for vice president of Region 1. I later found out that I am the fourth one that he coaxed to do the same. Thanks Lanny and Sheryl, you have been my staunchest allies and I wouldn’t have had the honor of being here without you. Also thanks to Dell King and the late Russell Hackley for all their support. And to all of you members of KCA, you are the backbone of the cattle industry. Not just here in Kentucky but of all the United States. I have always said that it is important to be a member of your industry’s association, regardless of what business you are in. Humble apologies for this my final article being so long. Please feel free to contact me anytime if I can be of service to anyone concerning KCA business. Thank you for the privilege of allowing me to serve an association that I so truly love. As Roy Rogers would say “Happy trails to you, until we meet again.” Cowboy Up. 7

FROM DAVE’S DESK DAVE MAPLES Executive Vice President I hope that 2021 brings a more normal New Year. It is not very hard to be negative in these times of uncertainty. I have lived a life of the beef industry for more than 60 years now, 62 to be exact. History has ups and downs with the cattle market, or the bulls and bears as I later learned. I remember when it was so bad that I didn’t know if my family would make it financially and I can remember the good times when I thought the run would never end. Then I realized that I could do like everyone else in the industry was doing and watch for the price signals. Working for the Kentucky Cattlemen’s Association I watch the signals and try to predict or stay ahead of what is going to be happening in the industry in the coming years. After all, price signals are the beginning of the process to increase or decrease production. The signals that we have encountered

lately were never considered in my prior history. Livestock producers have had unexpected events, black swan occurrences, and the results have been financially disappointing. Looking back ten years. The drought in much of Texas, Oklahoma, Kanas and Nebraska beginning in 2010-13 forced liquidation and led to one of the largest bull markets on record in 2014-15. The pressure on processing plants, some large plants closed, and others were left struggling to find cattle to fill the publics demand for beef. The rebuild of the cow herd was immediate and peaked last year from this cycle’s low. Signals to watch. With the events of the past two years including the Tyson fire and the Coronavirus, accompanied with drought in the southwest, have once again triggered the motions that cause liquidation and smaller cow herds.

This year’s calf crop is down 1% according to USDA inventories. Except for government financial aid, the past couple of years have been disastrous financially. The promise of profits for cattlemen down the road have turned into a disappearing act. The processors have captured all of the margins available to beef producers. The processors have used their leverage of under-capacity among beef plants to hold on to those margins. Remember we closed several plants when cattle numbers were low. I know this statement is hard for some but this is not a result of collusion, but natural market forces. We are being told that 2021 will be the year of a turn-around for the live cattle sector. Declining cattle numbers will provide fewer cattle after the first quarter of the year. Changing conditions and improved leverage do not happen overnight but they do happen to keep things in balance.

The lessons learned from the past two years has been as the old saying goes, “that it is better to be part of a growing business rather than one in decline”. To have workable growth it is going to require constant change and our industry has been slow to change. The challenges to our industry are always present – fake meat, climate change activists, varying opinions on diet and more. But as I was reminded from one of my trusted advisors is that our product has a strong global demand. There is solid science supporting the value of beef in the diet and the important contribution to the body’s immune system and our industry is built on a grasslands foundation. Looking through optimistic eyes, the case is solid for a thriving and growing beef industry for the future.

YOUR CATTLE AREN’T COMMON...

WHY SHOULD YOUR CLOVER BE?

PRODUCTIVE 15 plus years of University research, on farm demonstrations, and satisﬁed customers

1-800-285-SEED or pennington.com

PERSISTENT

Durana white clover is the most persistent clover on the market with signiﬁcantly increased stolon density as compared to other clover

PROFITABLE

Durana white clover will improve ADG when planted into toxic tall fescue or other grass pastures

Pennington with design is a registered trademark of Pennington Seed, Inc. PEW193

COW COUNTRY •

JANUARY 2021

• A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E K E N T U C K Y C AT T L E M E N ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N

COMMISSIONER’S CORNER RYAN QUARLES Commissioner of Agriculture Another year is in the rearview mirror, and I think I speak for all of us when I say, “good riddance to 2020.” In a year marred by a once-in-a-generation pandemic, I am ready for a fresh start that comes with a new year. The legislative session is underway and the Kentucky Department of Agriculture has a couple of legislative items we are fighting for, including our budget. Last year the General Assembly should have passed a two-year budget, but they were unable to do so because of the coronavirus pandemic. Anytime the budget is opened, we advocate for two main things: a fully funded Kentucky Department of Agriculture and for no new taxes on our farm economy. With many new legislators as well, it’s important you take time to get to know them. Be sure to invite them out to your farm so they get to know the impact of government decisions on your lives. One thing you can expect for me to advocate for is a reform of the emergency powers in the executive branch. I don’t plan to put forward any specific legislation (as the General Assembly has made their desire for reform well-known), but something must be done to ensure that there is some sort of check on unrestricted, open-ended governing by executive order. As you may know, the General Assembly only meets for 30 days or 60 days in a given year. It is important that they pass legislation to ensure the legislature – an independently elected branch of government – has a say in policy-making, even in a pandemic. I want you to also know that the application period is open for the annual Leopold Conservation Award. Contrary to what our critics may say, agriculture is one of the most conservation-oriented industries in the world. Our farm families go above and beyond to make sure they are taking care of their land. The Kentucky Department of Agriculture is a proud sponsor of this award. I encourage you to visit leopoldconservationaward.org to learn more and apply.

COW COUNTRY •

JANUARY 2021

Lastly, I want to encourage you to take a look the annual University of Kentucky’s Economic Situation and Outlook. There is a lot of good data in there compiled by the economists at UK. The report covered well how the pandemic affected our cattle market. The economists point to a potential bright spot in 2021 potentially being an increase in domestic and international demand for beef, which could translate into higher prices, a good thing for our farm families. However, the report said we should continue to expect a level of uncertainty this year…Even with a vaccine, we know we are going to be living for the virus for a few more months. That’s why I continue to pray we can get some stability in the marketplace so that we can get back to our normal lives.

Angus. America’s Breed. Alex Tolbert,

Regional Manager

Kentucky Ohio Tennessee

A reliable business partner is difficult to come by. Contact Alex Tolbert to locate Angus genetics, select marketing options tailored to your needs, and to access American Angus Association® programs and services. Put the business breed to work for you.

Contact Regional Manager Alex Tolbert: Cell: 706-338-8733 atolbert@angus.org

• A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E K E N T U C K Y C AT T L E M E N ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N

25th Annual Smithland Angus

ON THE EDGE OF COMMON SENSE

PLEASURE HORSE BAXTER BLACK, DVM

I consider myself among other things, a former horse mechanic. The horses I did veterinary work on were ranch and feedlot beasts of burden. Workin’ animals from man’s point of view.

“Well, my little mare, I better finish this hay. Crooked Jack will be comin’ to take me to the mall where I can walk in circles all day giving joy to little boys and girls.”

Up until about fifty years ago that would describe most of the horses vets worked on. I was always a little vain about distinguishing that my patients worked for a living, earned their daily oats and made a contribution to the good of mankind.

“I’m so proud of you, Geldy. You bring so much happiness into the world.”

That same kind of ‘snobbery’ still exists, I think. Somehow working on a valuable race horse, a Tennessee walkin’ show horse, an endurance Arabian, a Budweiser Clydesdale, Fred Whitfield’s ropin’ horse, Kathy Petersen’s barrel racin’ horse, a New York city policeman’s horse, a ranch horse, a rodeo bucker, a Quarterhorse cutter, an outfitter’s packmule or a Lippizan performer is interpreted as doing something more worthwhile than floating the teeth on a backyard plug. These working horses have a purpose. That dignifies your veterinary efforts, lends some value to your education and experience. All your acquired ability isn’t being wasted in frivolous endeavor on a horse that isn’t really ‘workin’ for a livin’. But, with all that being said, what’s work to a horse? Is it something they feel good about? Does it give them a sense of self worth? Of course not.

Friday, March 12, 2021 • 6:30 P.M. CDT Russell County Stockyard Russell Springs, KY More details in the February & March issues of Cow Country News

W W W. B A X T E R B L A C K . C O M

Backyard horse practice sorta ranked with spayin’ cats and trimming Chihuahua’s toenails.

Bull & Female Sale

Smithland Angus Farm

5202 East Hwy. 80 Russell Springs, KY 42642 Charles (Bud) B. & Pam Smith 270-866-3898 • cell 270-576-2708 Henry Bryan & Melissa Smith 270-866-2311 • cell 606-271-7520 smithlan@duo-county.com bmsmith@duo-county.com

Coyote Cowboy Proverb: Work to a horse is anything he does because you make him do it. I tell people my horse likes to rope. Meaning, I guess, that he likes to chase cattle. But he spends a lot of time in the pasture with cows and calves, I’ve never seen him chase them on his day off.

Since 1940

Ah, but you good horsemen say, “This horse loves to run”, or “He was born to buck”, or “I can tell he loves to pull this plow. He can’t wait for me to crack this whip!” I see them run and kick up their heels in an open pasture... but not for long. Are they having fun? Can horses have fun? Are they bored? Can they get bored? I’d be hard put to argue that they can’t have fun, get bored or get mad. Horses are domesticated animals. Under the care of and at the pleasure of those who pay for their keep. It is not their choice. It is ours. Like teenagers, if we give them room and board we expect something in return. At our pleasure, even if our pleasure is team roping, showing Arabians or just a good companion. But in the end, it’s all work to a horse.

COW COUNTRY •

JANUARY 2021

• A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E K E N T U C K Y C AT T L E M E N ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N

Maternal Matters! At Red Hill Farms, we are extremely pleased Red Angus has a new MATERNAL Index, HERDBUILDER. This new index is closely aligned with our maternal selection goals – cows that breed regularly, calve easily and early in the breeding season, and wean a high percent of their body weight. In addition to this important index, we put extra emphasis on udders, feet and disposition. Profitability starts with the cow! HB = 149 Top 1%

REDHILL T189 MEDAL 176A (#1670037)

Terminal Matters! The SimGenetics bulls at Red Hill are selected to add payweight in all phases of production – weaning, yearling and carcass. As a bonus, these bulls are selected for KY-31 fescue adaptability, slick hair, good feet and remarkably calm dispositions. These bulls are ideal for mating to Britishbased cows to produce calves with added hybrid vigor, feedlot demand and consumer acceptance. 231A, along with other Red Hill sires, have proven track records of adding value in all segments of the beef business!

API = 172.7 Top 2% TI = 97.1 Top 1%

REDHILL 672X X004 231A (#2847534)

Visit www.RedHillFarms.net for information about our sale and breeding program.

XVI

MORE THAN A BULL SALE 16th Annual Sale

Sellin

40 Red Angus Bulls 30 Red & Black Simmental & SimAngus™ Bulls

Saturday, March 20, 2021 1 p.m. CDT • At the Farm

COW COUNTRY •

JANUARY 2021

• A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E K E N T U C K Y C AT T L E M E N ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N

Bart, Sarah & Ty Jones • (615) 666-3098 466 Red Hill Road, Lafayette, TN 37083 mail@redhillfarms.net Gordon & Susan Jones • (270) 991-2663

CHECKING ON THE CHECK-OFF NATHAN LAWSON Director of Kentucky Beef Council Time is our most valuable resource. Life’s circumstances and experiences have taught me to value time over most of what the world has to offer. It’s not uncommon in our home to hear, “don’t wish your time away”, in response to our children’s anxious comments about the next thing, or what may await them when they are older. Don’t get me wrong, we value forward thinking and work hard to teach them to manage their time and plan ahead, but those are different ideas than wishing time would pass. However, if there ever was a year that has tempted us to desire a higher gear in the clock, 2020 was it. Will the grass be greener in 2021? Before walking away completely, I’d like to take inventory, of what I believe were some wins for the Kentucky beef industry 2020. Co nsume r aw aren e s s . W h en restaurants were forced to close and the meat cases emptied, consumers asked, “where’s the beef”? As frustrating as it was for those of us in the cattle business, could these circumstances have served as a catalyst for consumer education? We live in the land of plenty, to such an extent, that the inability to have beef (as well as other foods) at our fingertips was purely shocking to many. Eager shoppers soon became hungry for information about the beef supply chain. Previously held criteria used for making protein choices such as, environmental footprint, grass versus grain finished, organic versus conventional and Green New Deals were suddenly trumped by the thought of being without! The result: a tremendous amount of local, state and national press focused on the beef supply chain and the quandary between the availability of live cattle versus that of packaged product. Concerns about what might be, gave us an excellent opportunity to present facts and retain consumer confidence in beef. Growth in locally sourced beef. It’s encouraging that consumers did not move away from beef when it wasn’t readily available, instead it appears many of them may have moved closer to the source. A renewed interest in locally raised and processed beef has resulted in huge growth in producer to consumer connections. These relationships represent a golden opportunity for cattlemen and women 12

to advocate, educate and promote beef and the credible manner in which it is raised! Our challenge: handling these relationships carefully, not seeking to disparage one production practice or system over another and advocating for the roll of beef as an excellent source of protein in the diet and the positive impact beef production has on our environment and communities. Continued strong demand for US beef. In spite of empty meat cases and shuttered foodservice, demand for beef nationally and internationally has remained strong. Admittedly, I was concerned that restrictions on restaurant dining, catering and events, would result in a shift away from beef to cheaper proteins at the retail level, which combined with a backlog of finished cattle would be detrimental on our calf prices through the end of 2020. However, consumers continued to keep beef on the menu even while preparing more meals at home. Simply put, we have weathered that storm fairly well. International demand for US beef has remained strong as well. Remember the swine flu that decimated China’s pig herd? It seems like it was long ago now, but it was once a story at the top of our newsfeed, having great potential to be a shot in the arm for US beef exports in 2020. That protein still had to be replaced, even during a pandemic. In fact, from January to October, 2020 US exports of beef to China were up 193%, at nearly 68,700,000 pounds over the same period in 2019. While we don’t yet know if total US beef exports will be up for 2020, we have to count this sizable increase in Chinese market share a win. As we reflect on a tough year and look forward to the good things 2021 might bring, my hope is that we’ll remember our wins and value our time. Maybe I’m overly optimistic, if that’s the case I think I’m okay with that. Time will tell what the lasting impacts of 2020 will be on the beef industry, our consumers, and our attitude. We certainly haven’t wasted our time, but seized the opportunities born of adversity. What new opportunities will 2021 bring? Best wishes to you and yours in the new year! COW COUNTRY •

JANUARY 2021

• A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E K E N T U C K Y C AT T L E M E N ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N

A variety of Trust FOR A SUCCESSFUL CALVING SEASON •

Added technology; Bio-Mos®, Actigen®, Bioplex® and Sel-Plex® for better animal performance

•

Helps increase colostrum quality and calf vigor to combat stressful conditions

•

Helps promote gut health in calves during demanding situations

Triple Trust® HerdBuilder™ Calving and Rebreeding Mineral prepares your spring calving herd for the challenges of wet weather and the threat of scours. Elevated trace mineral levels help keep immune and reproduction functions performing properly. The addition of chelated trace minerals helps negate any antagonists present on pasture or in water. Cattle Lix 20% AN with Bio-Mos® is a an all natural self-fed protein supplement that promotes intestinal 7500 Grade Ln, Louisville, KY 40219

health while increasing forage digestibility in a low intake, economical cost per day package.

1-800-777-5923

www.centralfarmky.com

Contact your local dealer for more information on how Triple Trust® HerdBuilder™ minerals can help your herd.

COW COUNTRY •

JANUARY 2021

• A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E K E N T U C K Y C AT T L E M E N ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N

CHRISTIAN COUNTY NEWS

BEEFMAKER WHITE HAWK

11th Annual

An Open House Private Treaty Sale bulls will be priced and ready for your selection. Starting at 10 AM

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 2021 At 4765 Hwy 27 • Buchanan, GA 30113

Christian County Cattlemen’s Association cooked ribeyes at the Christian County Livestock market on sale day. The food was served to members in a drive thru. KCA President, Steve Dunning (third from right) helped the crew.

OFFERING 40 Hereford Bulls

16 To 18 Month Old Ready For Service

4 Hereford / Angus Composites Black White Face 5 Hereford / Brangus Super Baldies From Lynn White 18 sons of 4013 offered THE YARDS is an education center focusing on the science and practices of the beef industry. Educational opportunities provide a unique learning experience based on its location in the Blue Grass Regional Stockyards Marketplace. This environment fosters complex thinking, experiential learning, and life skill application.

Catalog will be on Hereford on Demand at Hereford.org.

Catalog mailed on request only.

FALL SALE OCTOBER 18, 2021

NELLIS@KYCATTLE.ORG • (859) 382-4303 ALL AGES WELCOME • SCHEDULE A GROUP VISIT AND CHOOSE YOUR LESSON PLAN • CATERING IS AVAILABLE

COW COUNTRY •

WHITE HAWK RANCH WHR_Jan21_KYCat.indd 1

JANUARY 2021

EPDs

WHR WHR Top AHA Avg. Percentage Avg.

CHB

155

108

BII

523

400

BMI

418

334

MARB

.38

.09

REA

.50

19%

.35

TEAT

1.35

18%

1.22

UDDR

1.35

12%

1.21

MCE

4.6

19%

1.6

13%

SCF

18%

15.6

1.5

0.9

111

3.1

52%

3.0

CED

2.5

47%

2.1

Gary R. Hedrick (678) 858-0914 g.hedrick@whitehawkinc.com Ben Hedrick (404) 216-4274 Herdsman, Diego Gutierrez (678) 629-1804 James Atkins (404) 922-6508 www.whitehawkbeefmakers.com 12/9/20 11:32 PM

• A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E K E N T U C K Y C AT T L E M E N ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N

TRANSFORM YOUR PROPERTY INTO A LAND OF OPPORTUNITY

Recently re-designed Hay Tedders with tough quality build to provide better overall performance in the field.

Flex-Wing Rotary Cutters perfect for maintaining a rolling pasture or orchard, or clearing heavy crops.

ROTARY CUTTERS FROM 4’-20’ HAY TOOLS LANDSCAPE, TILLAGE, LAND MAINTENANCE & MATERIAL HANDLING EQUIPMENT AND SO MUCH MORE!

800.363.9069

COW COUNTRY •

JANUARY 2021

BUSHHOG.COM

• A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E K E N T U C K Y C AT T L E M E N ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS Q. Will I be refunded my registration fee? A. Yes, all attendee registration fees will be refunded and you should receive them by January 15th, 2021. If you registered as a group, the group payment will be refunded. If you registered as an individual, the individual payment will be refunded.

KENTUCKY CATTLEMEN’S ASSOCIATION CONVENTION GOES VIRTUAL FOR 2021 LEXINGTON, KY, December 15, 2020 - The Kentucky Cattlemen’s Association Convention is one of the largest gatherings of cattle producers in Kentucky each year and is tasked with educating and preparing for the year ahead. Unfortunately, the current pandemic has presented many challenges that make bringing people together difficult. After thoughtful discussions amongst attendees and the convention center, and with the health and safety of our attendees in mind, KCA has made the difficult decision to make the 2021 Convention a virtual event. The KCA Virtual Convention will take place over three days, January 12, 13, and 15, 2021. The event will kick-off on Tuesday evening, January 12, with the Beef

Efficiency Conference that will focus on Designing Beef Production Programs for the Consumer. The 2021 Forages Conference will highlight Improving Hay Quality in Kentucky on Wednesday, January 13. The week will end on Friday, January 15 with the Regional Caucuses followed by the Business Session and Awards Ceremony. Highlights of Friday’s event include state and national updates, election of new officers and Hall of Fame awards. “While we’re disappointed that we had to cancel our in-person Convention, we are working to make the KCA Virtual Convention a great one! We continue to be so thankful for the strength, flexibility, and support the KCA community has exhibited during this pandemic.

KCA is proud to serve you and Kentucky’s beef industry,” stated Jeff Pettit, KCA Convention Chairman. Attendees will be able to register beginning Monday, December 21 via Zoom for each event and more details will be released in the coming weeks. For up-to-date convention information, FAQ and full agenda visit www.kycattle.org/convention. html. The Kentucky Cattlemen’s Association, a grassroots organization with 99 chapters in 120 counties, works to protect, advance and be a strong voice for the state’s 38,000 + cattle producers. For more information visit www.kycattle.org.

Q. Will KCA cancel any hotel reservations made through the official KCA room block? A. No, Any hotel reservations made through the official KCA block will need to be cancelled by you directly. Q. What is the registration price for the Virtual Convention? A. There are no registration fees for any of the virtual KCA Convention sessions (Beef Efficiency Conference, Forages, or Business & Awards Session). Q. How do I attend the Beef Efficiency Conference and/or Forages Conference? A. The Beef Efficiency Conference will be held on Tuesday, January 12th and the Forages Conference will be held on Wednesday, January 13. Further details will be released on registering for the virtual Beef Efficiency Conference and Forages Conference. There will be no cost associated with these events. Q. When will the KCA business meeting and awards ceremony occur? A. The KCA Virtual Business Meeting and awards ceremony will be held on Friday, January 15th at 1:00pm EST. During this session, attendees will hear the Treasurer’s Report, KCA Annual Report, and KBC Annual Report along with the 2021 Election of Officers. We will conclude the session with the 2021 Hall of Fame Awards and video presentations, along with presentation of the KCA & KBC Awards Q. How do I register for KCA Virtual Convention? A. You can view the agenda and registration information for the KCA Virtual Business Meetings, Beef Efficiency Conference, and Forages Conference online at kycattle.org/convention/html Q. How will the Regional Meetings and delegate voting take place? A. The Regional Caucus meetings will still take place on Friday, January 15th. Each Region will have a separate virtual conference meeting where you will conduct business and voting. Each County will be allowed their maximum number of delegates access into the virtual conference meeting. Every delegate will need to register and be approved to have access to the virtual conference meeting link.

COW COUNTRY •

JANUARY 2021

• A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E K E N T U C K Y C AT T L E M E N ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N

AGENDA (TENTATIVE- 12/14/2020) Tuesday, January 12 Virtual Education Session 1 Beef Efficiency Conference - Designing Beef Production Programs for the Consumer 7:30 PM EST / 6:30 PM CST “Consumers: - What They Say They Need, and They Want”Shawn Darcy, National Cattlemen’s Beef Association “Challenges and Opportunities with Regional Fed Beef Merchandising” Dr. Chad Carr, University of Florida “Beef Consumers: Looking Back and Looking Ahead”

SPEAKER BIOS Chad Carr grew up in Bethpage, TN on a diversified livestock operation. He received his B.S. and M.S. at Oklahoma State University and a Ph.D. at the University of Missouri. As an Associate Professor in the Department of Animal Sciences at the University of Florida his duties include coordinating food safety trainings for meat and poultry processors, educational programs in meat and livestock evaluation to youth, niche marketing strategies to producers and processors, and meat quality training to Florida’s extensive food service industry. He has an applied meat science research program, mentors graduate students and coordinates the intercollegiate judging programs for meat and livestock. He is a former Director for the American Meat Science Association and former President of the Intercollegiate Meat Coaches Association. Over 50,000 consumers worldwide have taken UF’s consumer meat education class, “The Meat We Eat”, as a Massive Open Online Course via the Coursera platform. Chad and his wife Cathy and daughters Ella and Rose live in Micanopy, FL.

Dr. Nevil Speer, Where Food Comes From Wednesday, January 13 Virtual Education Session 2 Forages Conference- Improving Hay Quality in Kentucky 7:00 PM EST / 6:00 PM CST “Welcome to Forages at KCA” “Hay quality in Kentucky…a historical perspective”Dr. Chris Teutsch, University of Kentucky “You have got a hay test, now what?” Dr. Jeff Lehmkuhler, University of Kentucky “Practical considerations for making high quality baleage” Dr. Dennis Hancock, U.S. Dairy Forage Research Center “Practical approaches to improving hay quality ” Dr. Dennis Hancock, U.S. Dairy Forage Research Center “Practical approaches to improving hay quality in the Commonwealth” Dr. Jimmy Henning, University of Kentucky Friday, January 15, 2021 1:00PM EST Kentucky Cattlemen’s Association Business & Awards Session Welcome Comments Kentucky Cattlemen’s Association Annual Financial Report- Ken Adams, KCA Treasurer Kentucky Cattlemen’s Association Annual Report- Dave Maples, KCA Executive Vice President Kentucky Beef Council Annual Report- Nathan Lawson, KBC Director Election of Officers 2021 KCA Hall of Fame Inductions

Dr. Speer serves as Director of Industry Relations for Where Food Comes From. He has worked in both academia and private industry. That experience has allowed him extensive involvement with the livestock and food industry including various service and consultation projects spanning a wide variety of topics. Dr. Speer holds a PhD in Animal Sciences from Colorado State University and an MBA from Western Kentucky University. Shawn Darcy is the Senior Director of Market Research at the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association. The market research team helps enhance a range of Beef Checkoff funded work, by bringing consumer insights into the equation when issues management, production, nutrition, quality and communications work is being designed and implemented. Shawn has over 11 years of Market Research experience, having conducted hundreds of consumer studies. Topics have ranged from consumer perceptions regarding how food is raised, consumer segmentation, food preferences, foodservice and retail trends, new product opportunities, advertising evaluation, and messaging and brand insights. Previous to NCBA, Shawn worked for comScore ARS, where he was an Account Manager of Market Research on the company’s top Pharmaceutical and Consumer Package Goods accounts. Prior to market research, he also spent time as an Assistant Store Manager at Kroger in the Cincinnati division. Preceding his career at Kroger, he received his B.A. at the University of Northern Colorado, Greeley. Shawn loves living in Colorado where he looks forward to spending time with his wife and two kids. Colin Woodall is the Chief Executive Officer of the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association and leads the country’s oldest and largest national trade association for cattle producers in being the trusted voice and definitive leader of the beef industry. Originally from Big Spring, Texas, Colin graduated from Texas A&M and then worked as a grain elevator manager and merchandiser for Cargill at several locations in western Kansas and the Oklahoma panhandle. After venturing to Washington, Colin took a job with U.S. Senator John Cornyn from Texas. He has been with NCBA since 2004 and served as the association’s Chief Lobbyist in Washington, D.C., for a decade. He is a founding member of the Government Relations Leadership Forum, a life member of the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, member of the Texas Aggie Corps of Cadets Association, the Agribusiness Club of Washington, D.C., the Washington Agricultural Roundtable, and is a past Chairman of the Board of Directors for the Agriculture Council of America. He also volunteers as a junior commercial steer show judge at the San Antonio Livestock Exposition.

Kentucky Beef Council & Kentucky Cattlemen’s Association Awards COW COUNTRY •

MORE SPEAKER BIOS ON PAGE 18 → JANUARY 2021

• A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E K E N T U C K Y C AT T L E M E N ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N

SPEAKER BIOS Dr. Dennis Hancock is the Center Director for the U.S. Dairy Forage Research Center (USDFRC) in Madison, WI. The USDFRC is a cooperative effort between the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Agricultural Research Service, the University of Wisconsin-Madison, and other land grant universities. Researchers at the USDFRC focus on problems that are national in scope and that limit effective and efficient use of forage for milk production. It coordinates multidisciplinary efforts involving engineers, microbiologists, chemists, and soil, plant, and animal scientists. The research is directed toward increasing yields and quality of forage grown and harvested; reducing losses associated with harvesting, storage and feeding; and maximizing use of forage nutrients by the dairy cow for milk production. Prior to becoming the Center Director at the USDFRC, Dr. Hancock: • Grew up on a 100-acre cow-calf operation in Western Kentucky, where his father also ran a gravel, lime, and fertilizer spreading business. • Earned a BS in Agriculture in 1996 from Berea College • Earned an MS in Plant and Soil Sciences in 1999 at the Univ. of Kentucky. • After a 2 ½ year stint as a County Extension Agent in northern Kentucky (Grant Co.), he returned to UK to work on his Ph.D. part-time while he worked full time as the Research and Extension Coordinator for the Univ. of Kentucky’s Precision Agriculture Team • Completed a Ph.D. in Crop Science in 2006. • Served as a Professor in the Crop and Soil Sciences Department at the University of Georgia and served as the State Forage Extension Specialist from 2006-2020. Dr. Jeff Lehmkuhler grew up in southern Indiana. He received a B.S. from Purdue University and completed his graduate studies at the University of Missouri. Jeff held a Beef Extension and research position at the University of Wisconsin from 2001 to 2008 before joining the faculty at the University of Kentucky. Dr. Lehmkuhler’s responsibilities include providing producers science-based, practical information allowing them to make more informed decisions. He is a liason to the beef cattle industry and provides educational programs for county agents and producers. Dr. Lehmkuhler continues to be involved with other experts focusing on forage-based beef cattle production in the southeast. He has worked internationally giving presentations in Canada, Brazil, China, Belarus and Ukraine. Jimmy Henning is Extension Professor and Extension Forage Specialist in the Department of Plant and Soil Science at the University of Kentucky. His extension program focuses on hay and haylage production and nutritional quality as well as pasture establishment and management. He is a co-founder of the Kentucky Grazing Schools and the UK Forage Variety Testing program. He led in the implementation of forage variety trials for grazing tolerance to cattle and for preference by horses. He is part of a forage team that is actively serving the Kentucky horse industry through the Equine Pasture Evaluation program. Dr. Henning is a graduate of the University of Georgia and the University of Kentucky, College of Agriculture.

ties in Georgia. His outside interests include music and photography. He is married to the former Faye Fleming of Tifton, Georgia and they one daughter (married to Nicholas Watts) and two grandsons, Winston Thomas and Oakley Jimmy. Dr. Teutsch began is the Forage Extension Specialist at the University of Kentucky’s Research and Education Center at Princeton. In this role he conducts research and educational programs that target increasing the profitability of beef cattle production ion Kentucky. His research interests included developing and implementing cost effective extended grazing systems, looking at alternative finishing systems that would add value to calves that may be discounted at the stock market, and integrating forages and livestock with grain crop production. Ryan Quarles was elected Kentucky’s Commissioner of Agriculture in 2015. Under his leadership, the Kentucky Department of Agriculture (KDA) started several new programs, including initiatives to combat hunger and connect Kentucky farmers to new markets. Prior to serving as Commissioner of Agriculture, Quarles represented Scott, Owen, and Fayette counties for three terms in the General Assembly, where he was an outspoken advocate for agricultural issues affecting Kentucky families. In 2006, Quarles graduated from the University of Kentucky with three undergraduate majors and two graduate degrees. In 2008, he was awarded a full scholarship to Harvard University, where he studied higher education, government, and law. After graduating with a Masster’s degree in higher education, he returned home to finish his last year of law school at the Univeresity of Kentucky. In 2018, he graduated from Vanderbilt University with his doctorate in higher education. Ryan grew up on his family’s farm in Scott County, coming from a family that has lived in central Kentucky for over 200 years.

At the Kentucky Cattlemen’s Association,

we are powered by people.

He began his career at the University of Missouri as a Forage Extension Specialist and has worked at the University of Kentucky since 1990. While at the University of Missouri, he led the educational program on hay quality using a mobile forage testing lab. Dr. Henning is a Fellow of the American Society of Agronomy and has received the Merit and Medallion Awards of the American Forage and Grassland Council. In addition he was awarded the Whiteker Award for Excellence in Extension by the UK College of Agriculture, which is the highest honor given by the College for extension programming. Dr. Henning served as Extension Agriculture and Natural Resource Program leader (2003-2007) and then Associate Dean for Cooperative Extension (2007-2017). In 2017, he returned to the faculty and resumed his work in forage extension.

Since 1973, the Kentucky Cattlemen’s Association has served as a resource for information and education for producers, consumers, and the industry. Our membership is growing and we need you to help us stay strong.

Join or renew your KCA membership TODAY!

(859) 278-0899

He is a native of Guymon, Oklahoma, and was reared in several towns and communi18

COW COUNTRY •

JANUARY 2021

• A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E K E N T U C K Y C AT T L E M E N ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N

NobodyHandlesCattleLike PowderRiver...

SPONSORS

* 1/4 Circle Portable Sweep PLATINUM * Classic Panel Alley (width adjusting 17” to 28”) * HD Squeeze Chute with Right Side Exit & Auto Headgate

Alltech

Blue See GrassThis Marketing GroupCATTLE W O R K I N G UNIT on display at: Complete Burkmann Nutrition Burkmann Feeds, Danville: 1-800-786-2875 Farm Credit Mid-America Burkmann Feeds, Glasgow: 1-800-589-2174 Burkmann Feeds, Edmonton: 270-432-7007 Red Hill Farms Burkmann Feeds, London: 606-877-3333 Producers, M&W United Milling, Columbia:Inc 1-877-495-1117 Burkmann Feeds,Greenville, TN 888-592-2049 Y-Tex Zoetis GOLD BioZyme, INC Beefmaster Breeders United Bush Hog Central KY Ag Credit My Team Cattle & Crop Insurance NEAT Distributing Rip’s Farm Center, Inc Tarter Farm & Ranch SILVER CHR Hansen Roto-Mix, LLC BRONZE Artex/Red Barn & Associates Norbrook, Inc Westway Feed Products The Hartford Livestock

COW COUNTRY •

JANUARY 2021

• A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E K E N T U C K Y C AT T L E M E N ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N

ECONOMIC AND POLICY UPDATE

U.S. AGRICULTURAL ECONOMY Will Snell, Kenny Burdine, Greg Halich, Jerry Pierce, Tim Woods, (Ag Economics), Jeff Stringer, Chad Niman, Billy Thomas, Bobby Ammerman, Thomas Ochuodho (Forestry) U.S. Agricultural Economy Following several years of depressed commodity prices, trade wars, and challenging financial conditions, 2020 was setting up to be a critical year for the U.S. agricultural economy. On the verge of completion of three major trade agreements (China, USMCA, and Japan), a slowing, but growing world economy, and continued low production expenses, there was some optimism among farmers and ag markets entering 2020 … then COVID-19 hit. Like most businesses, agriculture did not escape the gyrations caused by COVID-19. Plant shutdowns, restaurant/school closings, supply chain disruptions, panic buying, labor uncertainties, and continued trade disputes, were just a few items that led to a wild ride for the ag economy with prices for most farm commodities falling 1025% or more during the second quarter of 2020. In response to this crisis, Congress debated various economic stimulus packages, which included funding for agriculture. In total, USDA is projecting that U.S. farmers will receive $46.5 billion of government assistance from two rounds of Coronavirus Food Assistance Program (CFAP) packages, the completion of 2019 Market Facilitation Program (MFP) payments, the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and regular farm bill programs (PLC, ARC, conservation) which may account for nearly 40% of net farm income in 2020. Currently, USDA is forecasting that 2020 Net Farm Income will total $119.6 billion, 43.1% above 2019 levels. Adjusted for inflation, U.S. net farm income will be at its highest level since 2013 and well above the 20 year average. Cash receipts are projected to fall slightly, but more than offset by lower production expenses and the escalation of government payments. Receipts have been aided in recent months by an improvement in crop prices, driven by stronger year-end export sales. Despite a lot of volatile factors, U.S. ag exports will likely end the year around $140 billion – relatively flat compared to the past three

years after setting a record level of nearly $150 billion in 2014. Alternatively, the value of U.S. ag imports continues to increase more than exports causing the U.S. to flirt with an ag trade deficit for the first time since 1959. U.S. ag exports to our largest trading partner, Canada, will be virtually flat in 2020, while exports to Mexico could end the year down around 10% as COVID-19 has taken its toll on the Mexican economy. Most of the trade optimism for U.S. ag early this year focused on the U.S./China Phase One trade agreement given their commitment to import $36.5 billion of U.S. ag products in 2020. This compares to a record level of $25.9 billion of U.S. ag exports to China in 2012, which fell to $9.1 billion in 2018. Through September, the U.S. has shipped $12.1 billion (up 37% in 2020), with strong grain, pork and beef sales. Despite robust export activity late in the year, U.S. ag exports to China are still projected to fall below Phase One targeted levels. Export sales to Japan and the EU also trended lower in 2020.

U.S. Net Farm Income

Kentucky Ag Cash Receipts

Kentucky’s Agricultural Economy Kentucky’s ag economy has seen its cash receipt level fall from a record $6.5 billion in 2014 to $5.5 billion in 2019, but net farm income has been supported in recent years by very favorable crop yields, large government payments, and lower production expenses. Net farm income totaled $2.2 billion in 2019, which actually was above the 10 year average of $1.8 billion, adjusted for inflation. We are forecasting that despite a lot of volatile factors impacting the farm economy, Kentucky ag cash receipts will remain relatively stable in 2020 at $5.5 billion.1 Our current estimate reflects a much better outcome from our April 2020 forecast when we projected that COVID-19 (and other factors) could trim over $300 million off Kentucky ag sales in 2020. Improving grain prices and impressive yields boosted grain receipts to help offset lower equine, poultry, dairy, and tobacco receipts. Despite a tough year, poultry remains the state’s largest ag enterprise, accounting for 19% COW COUNTRY •

of projected 2020 sales, followed by corn and soybeans (each at 17%) with equine falling to fourth (16%). Producers of local produce/meats, and other valueadded agriculture experienced continued growth, especially given changing consumer purchasing patterns amidst a pandemic. The forestry sector also experienced some improvement with a rebound in stumpage prices amidst

tightening supplies, continued growth in barrel demand and a better trade environment. Two rounds of CFAP PPP funds, and the last portion of the 2019 MFP payments will likely boost Kentucky direct government farm payments to more $500 million in 2020, which will likely enable Kentucky net farm income to exceed last year’s $2.2 billion level and our highest level since 2013.

1: USDA/NASS will release official 2020 state cash receipts in August 2021.

JANUARY 2021

• A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E K E N T U C K Y C AT T L E M E N ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N

ECONOMIC AND POLICY UPDATE This potential outcome will likely put additional financial stress on many farms in 2021 that were facing cash flow/liquidity/depleted working capital concerns entering 2020.

The Agricultural Economics Department publishes the Economic and Policy Update towards the end of each month.  Each issue features articles written by extension personnel within the department and other experts across the country.

Selected Commodity Profiles

Topics will vary greatly but regularly include marketing, management, policy, natural resources, and rural development issues. If you would like to recieve this newsletter by email, please contact Kenny Burdine at kburdine@ uky.edu. You can also view current and past issues online at https://bit.ly/2PoHsZj Co-editors: Kenny Burdine, Davis, and Greg Halich

Alison

What about 2021? While farm income and farmer’s optimism rebounded late in 2020, the farm economy enters 2021 with an even greater degree of uncertainty. Every business will continue to be impacted by the Coronavirus and the lingering effects on the overall economy. Farmers, agribusinesses, and the retail food sector will continue to adjust to the virus creating challenges for some sectors (e.g. ethanol/highprice beef cuts) and opportunities for others (e.g. local food/meat processing businesses). Political uncertainty also affects the 2021 ag outlook regarding how new faces in Washington DC will address future farm policy/government payments, trade policy, ethanol, climate change, water and other environmental regulations, market concentration and rural infrastructure. Farm commodity prices, in general, are forecast to improve, but will be very vulnerable to abrupt changes in trade and the weather. Production expenses are forecast to remain relatively low, especially interest rates and energy-related inputs to help offset anticipated higher feed costs. Land prices and rents are expected to remain steady even amidst a volatile and uncertain farm economy. An improved price outlook may enable cash receipts to be slightly higher in 2021, but net farm income will likely fall given anticipated reductions in government payments.

COW COUNTRY •

JANUARY 2021

Cattle—Despite optimism coming into 2020, COVID’s demand and supply chain disruptions rocked cattle markets, especially in spring and summer. The backlog of fed cattle that was created by lower spring harvest levels pressured prices all through the marketing chain. Heavy feeder cattle prices decreased by more than $25 per cwt from January to April, but did manage to gain a good portion of that back by early fall. Calf markets failed to see their typical spring run-up and fall prices have been very close to 2019 levels. Cull cow and bull markets were a relative bright spot as less harvest volume impacts were seen in those markets and ground beef demand benefited from increased at-home consumption. Assuming that COVID impacts lessen in 2021, improvements should be seen in both domestic and international beef demand. This, combined with a smaller calf crop should pave the way for price some improvement next year. 550 lb steer calves are likely to average in the $160’s by spring and should hold the $140’s in the fall on a state average basis, with groups and higher quality calves selling at considerable premiums. Poultry—Kentucky’s poultry sector has generally continued to grow in size for many years and this was again the case coming in to 2020. But, poultry markets were impacted by COVID and wholesale broiler prices will likely be down nearly 20% for the year. Interestingly, egg prices have been higher for 2020 and rose considerably during the early stages of the pandemic. In reality, the vast majority of Kentucky’s contract poultry producers are somewhat isolated from these market impacts. However, they are impacted by increases in time between flocks as integrators adjust to market signals, which was the case for many growers this year. While 2020 brought challenges, growth is likely to continue over time, and 2021 should be a much improved year for the sector. Hogs—With general optimism about trade, and continued concern over African Swine Fever in China, the hog

industry came into 2020 expecting a solid year. USDA inventory estimates also suggested increased hog numbers in the Commonwealth for 2020, with much of the increase in contract integrated operations. Eastern Cornbelt hog prices mirrored 2019 for the first three months of the year before COVID’s impact on demand and processing took its toll. Prices fell by more than 40% from March to July and 2020 actually saw seasonal lows around the time the hog market typically makes its highs. However, prices have rallied since summer and set up for a much better 4th quarter. While reports continue to suggest China is rebuilding hog numbers, potential for strong exports and improved domestic demand exist for 2021, and hog producers should see a much better year. Eastern Cornbelt hog prices should start 2021 in the $60’s on a carcass weight basis, but find the $70’s by summer. Equine—After exceeding $1 billion in both 2018 and 2019, Kentucky farm level equine receipts will drop considerably in 2020. Both the number of horses sold and median prices were down in yearling and breeding stock sales. While the timing of COVID likely had limited impact on stud fees in 2020, stud fees are likely to decline on average in 2021. It is almost a certainty that sale values will continue to be depressed into next year as well. While the market for uppertier horses has the potential to stay relatively strong, impacts are likely to be felt across the vast majority of the equine market. When sales value, stud fees, and continued declines in the number of mares bred are considered, KY equine receipts will likely be even lower in 2021. Dairy—Kentucky came into 2020 with another decrease in dairy cow numbers and dairy producers have dealt with an extremely volatile market. The US All Milk price for the first nine months of the year ranged from a low of $13.60 per cwt in May to a high of $20.50 in July. Much of the volatility has been driven by large swings in cheese prices, which have considerable impact on farm level milk prices. Additionally, the 2019 change in the way that the base skim milk pricing factor was calculated, combined with de-pooling in response to higher class III prices, greatly impacted producer price differentials for much of the year. Producers have received some help in the form of Coronavirus Food

• A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E K E N T U C K Y C AT T L E M E N ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N

Assistance Program (CFAP) payments and the Dairy Margin Coverage (DMC) program. But, increasing feed prices have also cut into returns this fall. Looking ahead, indicators suggest that the dairy herd is growing at the national level, which means increased production is likely for 2021. Given this, demand for dairy products will have to improve for producers to see widespread price improvement in the coming year. A farm level milk price range of $17-19 per cwt would seem realistic for 2021. Corn—Total production for the 2020 corn crop is projected to be just 2% higher than the five-year average. Corn use for ethanol production is projected to be 5% lower than the five-year average, but is roughly balanced by a projected 5% increase in livestock feed use. The biggest change expected for the 2020-21 marketing year is a significant increase in corn exports, projected to be 27% higher than the five-year average. The combined affect would be an 18% drop in corn ending stocks over the five-year average, pushing the expected U.S. on-farm corn price up to $4.00/bu for the 2020-21 marketing year, compared to the fiveyear average of $3.50/bu. This would be the highest average on-farm corn price seen since 2013. Projected corn prices for the 2021-22 marketing year also look strong, with U.S. on-farm prices in the $3.85-3.95/bu range. This would be about $.40/bu higher than the fiveyear average. In Kentucky, corn prices are $3.70-3.90/bu as of mid-November, with forward contracting prices jumping to $4.10-4.40/bu this winter in our better markets. Soybeans—Total production for the 2020 soybean crop is projected to be just 1% higher than the five-year average. U.S. soybean use are projected to be 8% higher than the five-year average, while soybean exports are projected to be 14% higher than the five-year average. The combined effect of this increased usage would be a 60% drop in soybean ending stocks over the 5-year average, pushing the expected U.S. on-farm soybean price up to $10.40/bu for the 2020-21 marketing year, compared to the fiveyear average of $8.96/bu. As with corn, this would be the highest average onfarm soybean price seen since 2013. Projected soybean prices for the 2021-22 CONTINUED ON PAGE 22 21

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 21 marketing year also look strong. Futures prices for the 2021 crop are roughly $1.00/ bu below the 2020 crop, and would likely result in U.S. on-farm prices of around $10/bu for the 2021-22 crop marketing year. Although lower than projected for 2020-21, this would be over $1.00/bu higher than the five-year soybean price average. In Kentucky, soybean prices are $10.80-11.10/bu as of mid-November, with forward contracting prices jumping to $11.20-11.90/bu this winter in our better markets. Wheat—Soft Red Winter Wheat production in 2020 increased 11% from 2019 but is still 13% below the 5-year average. Combined with low initial stocks, the resulting available supply going into the marketing year is down 24% from the 5-year average. Domestic use is projected to be down 7% and exports down 28%, for a total use reduction of 14% over the 5-year average. However, given that the available supply is down 24%, the resulting ending stocks are projected to be only 40% of the 5-year average. This has led to steep increases in price, up around $1.00/bu since June. In Kentucky, cash prices as of mid-November and forward contracting prices through the winter are both around $6/bu, prices that have not been observed in years. Forward contract new crop prices (June/July) for 2021 in Kentucky are also around $6/bu. Tobacco—Kentucky’s tobacco sector continued to shrink in 2020 amidst contract volume reductions in response to slumping export markets, imports, lower cigarette sales, and a surplus of dark tobacco stocks. Tobacco acres are projected to be down around 15% in 2020 with yields highly variable across the state. Even with slightly higher market prices, the value of Kentucky tobacco production may fall from $268 million in 2019 to around $225 to $235 million versus averaging $311 million over the past five years. Kentucky tobacco growers did benefit from being a part of CFAP payments, expected to total more than $20 million, along with an expansion in Connecticut broadleaf (cigar) tobacco acres. The reduction in domestic cigarette sales moderated in 2020, snuff consumption was stable, while the growth in vaping products moderated. Despite anticipated lower tobacco product sales and sluggish exports, contract volumes for the coming year may remain relatively stable or could actually increase as leaf 22

stocks are ending 2020 fairly tight and frustrated growers exit. Profit margins will likely continue to be squeezed with higher labor costs, GAP requirements, limited yield gains, and stagnant leaf prices, resulting in continued concentration among growers. Uncertainty on issues such as restricting nicotine levels/ flavorings, taxes, immigration, trade, and emerging non-combustible tobacco products will continue to dampen the outlook for the remaining Kentucky tobacco growers. Hemp—Kentucky’s hemp industry took a major pullback in 2020 in response to experiences “learned” from the 2019 crop, characterized by a dramatic drop in prices, unsold stocks, limited processing capacity, regulatory uncertainty, and overall production/marketing frustrations. KDA reported farm sales totaling $51.3 million in 2019, up from $17.8 million in 2018 and $7.5 million in 2017. While the number of grower licenses issued in Kentucky remained stable (960 in 2020 vs 978 in 2019) around 160 licensees indicated that they would not plant a crop in 2020 in hopes of finding a buyer for their unsold inventory from previous years. Licensed hemp acres in Kentucky for 2020 totaled 32,000 acres (following a record high 60,000 acres in 2019), with planted acres reportedly around 5,000 (95% for CBD). Nationally, licensed hemp acres fell an estimated 20-30% in 2020 (vs over 500,000 licensed (250,000 planted) acres in 2019, while the number of hemp licenses issued actually increased. Despite the dramatic cut in acres, a glut of stocks remains with supply chain challenges and company bankruptcies. Given CBD challenges, there appears to be a growing interest nationally in hemp grain and fiber production, but increasing corn/ soy prices and processing issues may hinder expansion. The downward spiral in farm-level prices has moderated in recent months, with Kentucky hemp biomass price averaging $0.63/%CBD, conventional grain prices, $0.45-$0.55/ lb, organic grain prices, $1.00-$1.25)/ lb, and fiber, $0.05-$0.12/lb. Low price expectations in conjunction with unsold stocks, market and regulatory uncertainty, and minimal infrastructure development will likely keep acreage and enthusiasm down in 2021 as the emerging industry works off excess supplies and adjusts to changing market/regulatory conditions. Fruits, Vegetables and Greenhouse— Horticulture markets in Kentucky are made up of many pieces and cash receipts,

COW COUNTRY •

especially in the current environment, are difficult to monitor. Costs are up, especially for labor and Covid compliance. But revenues are also up for the most part – although some relatively wide swings in a number of our traditional direct markets. Direct to restaurant and school sales were down substantially. Farm markets sales were up a little, with CSA and agritourism sales up significantly. However, wineries were hit hard with limits to on-site tasting. Auctions were up considerably, approximately 25% YOY. Garden center sales were higher with retail nursery sales noted to be around 20% higher nationally with wholesale nursery up slightly less. Although early for final 2020 estimates, total produce and nursery cash receipts will likely be at record levels for Kentucky, approaching $160 million. Forestry—Timber and lumber markets improved in 2020 compared to 20182019. While the removal of tariffs on hardwood exports into China has increased log and lumber prices for red oak and white oak continues to be high demand for barrels and other products, the health of individual industries varies considerably. One key issue is the

shortage of logs. This is a consequence of low timber prices in 2018-19 that resulted in a reduction in timber sales. Ultimately, this has played a role in decreasing logging capacity, reducing log supply and log inventories at mills going into winter. The increasing demand for logs to satisfy lumber and other wood product orders and the limited supply of logs has created a seller’s market for timber with overall stumpage prices increasing, a trend which is expected to continue into 2021. On a negative note, the recent and unexpected closure of a pulp and paper facility in eastern TN (Kingsport) and the continued lack of strong pulpwood market in western Kentucky negatively impacts landowners’ timber value and the ability to perform good forest management. In summary, the forestry sector contributed $12.9 billion in total output to Kentucky’s economy and we expect this contribution to remain steady with stumpage values continuing to improve in 2021 providing opportunities for landowners to sell timber. However, we remain concerned over logging capacity, the long-term health of small mill operations, and lack of markets for low grade pulpwood across the state.

GREEN RIVER LIVESTOCK CA M P B E L L S V I L L E , K E N T U C K Y

PolyDome Bulk Bins • • • • • • • •

Translucent polyethylene allows you to see material level Made from high-impact, UV stabilized polyethylene Corrosion resistant Easy cleaning Smooth surface reduces bridging Large, vented filler cap with pull rope for ground access Sturdy outside ladder 10 year warranty! Bins in Stock

Lick Tanks also available!

& Ready to Move!

GIVE DARREL A CALL FOR ALL OF YOUR FEED BIN AND CATTLE HANDLING EQUIPMENT NEEDS!

JANUARY 2021

DARREL EASTRIDGE • 270-469-5389 • A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E K E N T U C K Y C AT T L E M E N ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N

LEGAL NEWS

H O W TO AVO I D L I A B I L I T Y F O R FA R M A C T I V I T I E S

Allison Charo Charolais Breeder Since AllisonAllison Charolais • Charolais

Bulls Availab

CharolaisSince Breeder1962 Since 1962 Charolais Breeder

CANDACE SMITH

• • Ø Bull calves out of HCR Answer

Bulls Available

Steptoe & Johnson, PLLC

Although most of the country is still operating under some form of shut down due to COVID-19, reports of a rapidly developing vaccine might mean that public events will be rescheduled soon. While this is an exciting prospect, farm animal owners must remember that involving their animals in activities such as shows, competitions, parades, and fairs might expose them to liability. As a means of encouraging such activities, Kentucky created the Farm Animal Activities Act (FAAA), a statute that shields farm animal professionals, including farm animal owners, that participate in “farm animal activities” from liability for injuries caused by their farm animals. KRS § 247.401. In part, the FAAA defines “farm animal activities” as “[s]hows, fairs, exhibits, competitions, performances, or parades that involve farm animals,” and states that farm animal owners only have a duty to “reasonably warn participants in farm animal activities of the inherent risks … but not the duty to reduce or eliminate the inherent risks ...” §§ 247.4015(3)(a) & 247.402(1). However, the statute is not without exceptions, and whether an activity qualifies for protection under the general rule or fits into one of the exceptions is a hotly contested issue. For example, in

Prather v. Keeneland Association, Inc., the Kentucky Court of Appeals recently decided whether an activity fell within the “horse racing activities” exception to the FAAA. Prather v. Keeneland Ass’n, Inc., 2020 WL 260288 (Ky. App. Jan. 17, 2020). In Prather, Roy Prather was injured by a thoroughbred while attending the September Yearling Sales Event at the Keeneland race track. Prather filed suit against Keeneland seeking damages for his injury, but Keeneland argued that it was immune from liability under the FAAA because the September Yearling Event was a farm animal activity. The Court of Appeals rejected Keeneland’s argument and held that the September Yearling Event fell under the horse racing activities exception to the FAAA. The Court of Appeals explained that because the sale of horses was integral to horse racing, the September Yearling Sales Event was a “horse racing activity.” Therefore, the Court of Appeals ruled that Keeneland did not have immunity and could be found liable for Prather’s injuries. Keeneland appealed this decision, and this case is now before the Kentucky Supreme Court.

Bulls Available Ø Bull calves out of HCR Answer4007. 2042 and HCR SPIRIT CHAROLAIS

to understand the requirements and HCR SPIRIT 4007. 2042 and exceptions to theØFAAA hosting Bullbefore calves out ofØ HCR Answer Bred forease calving ease and growt a farm animal activity. If an activity Ø Bred for calving and growth. the statute, qualifies for protection under HCR SPIRIT Ø Bulls for both purebred commercialand breeders. Ø4007. Bulls for bothandpurebred comm there are additional steps the farm animal Ø Yearlings and two-year-olds available. Ø Bredasfor calving and growth. owners should take—such providing Øease Yearlings and two-year-olds avail sufficient warnings—to ensure they will Ø Bred heifers to calve in fall available. Bulls for both purebred commercial benefit from theØstatute’s protections. Ø Bredand heifers to calvebreeders. in fall availa The Prather decision demonstrates that John Allison, Owner David Carter, Farm Manager Ø Yearlings 545 Eminence Road available. 502-706-0075 what qualifies under the FAAA and is nottwo-year-olds KYAllison, 40050 John Allison, Owner David Car John Owner always straightforward. An attorney canNew Castle, 502-220-3170 Ø whether Bred heifers to calve inEminence fall available. help you evaluate an activity 545 RoadRoad 50 545 Eminence that you plan to host is covered by the New Castle, KY 40050 FAAA and what steps you Allison, need to take Castle, KY 40050 John Owner New David Carter, Farm Manager 502-220-3170 to comply with that statute and obtain 545 Eminence Road 502-706-0075 protection from liability.

BULLS & HEIFERS AVAILABLE

New Castle, KY 40050 502-220-3170

502-220-3170

Although a final decision has not yet been reached, this case demonstrates why it is important for farm animal owners

These materials are public information and have been prepared solely for educational purposes. These materials reflect only the personal views of the authors and are not individualized legal advice. It is understood that each case is fact-specific, and that the appropriate solution in any case will vary. Therefore, these materials may or may not be relevant to any particular situation. Thus, the authors and Steptoe & Johnson PLLC cannot be bound either philosophically or as representatives of their various present and future clients to the comments expressed in these materials. The presentation of these materials does not establish any form of attorney-client relationship with the authors or Steptoe & Johnson PLLC. While every attempt was made to ensure that these materials are accurate, errors or omissions may be contained therein, for which any liability is disclaimed.

COW COUNTRY •

JANUARY 2021

• A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E K E N T U C K Y C AT T L E M E N ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N

FEATURE

B L AC K L EG : F R E QU E N T LY AS K E D QU E ST I O N S MICHELLE ARNOLD DVM-Ruminant Extension Veterinarian, University of Kentucky

1. What is “blackleg?” This is a rapidly fatal disease of cattle, typically seen in calves 6-12 months of age, caused by the bacterium Clostridium chauvoei. Sheep may also be affected. In a majority of cases, affected calves are simply found dead in the pasture with no symptoms of disease. Blackleg usually affects calves in good nutritional condition (the “fattest and slickest”) within a group. As the bacterium grows, it emits a toxin (poison) that kills the muscle cells, typically in the hindquarters or thigh muscles. Most animals will die within 12-24 hours of the onset of disease so symptoms of weakness, severe lameness, and muscle swelling are often missed. The swollen muscle starts out hot and painful but quickly becomes cold and insensitive as the muscle dies. The bacterium also produces gas that builds up under the skin, causing the skin to feel similar to “bubble wrap” and makes a crackling, rattling sound known as “crepitation” when pushing the skin down over the affected area. 2. Where is the blackleg organism found? The organism that causes blackleg, the bacterium Clostridium chauvoei, is characterized as a “Grampositive, anaerobic, spore-forming rod”. This description is important because it describes why and how the bacterium survives for long periods in the soil and the trigger that causes it to be deadly. Clostridial organisms are “anaerobes” which means they like to live and grow where there is no oxygen. In order to survive where there is oxygen, they exist in a “spore” form. A “spore” is a protective form of the bacteria that allows it to survive unfavorable conditions and also enables it to spread. Spores are found in both soil and water as well as in the digestive tract of living and dead animals. Spores are very resistant to environmental factors and disinfectants that normally kill bacteria. Older studies confirmed the blackleg organism can survive as a spore at least 11 years in better soils. Spores can only germinate 24

and grow, known as changing to the “vegetative state”, when there is little oxygen present. This vegetative bacterial form produces the toxin (poison) called Toxin A, considered to be responsible for the destruction of both skeletal and cardiac (heart) muscle cells and death. 3. How do cattle get infected? Although blackleg is one of the oldest and most widely recognized causes of death, the way the disease works is still not fully understood. It is believed that cattle ingest (eat or drink) the spores which are then absorbed through the intestines and into the bloodstream where they get distributed to multiple tissues, including skeletal and heart muscles. Once there, the white blood cells called “macrophages” engulf them and the organism can survive months to years within these cells without affecting the animal. However, when the oxygen level drops within the muscle cell, for example due to injury and bruising, the spores germinate, and the vegetative bacteria grow and produce the deadly toxin. 4. Does it only affect the thigh musculature? No, the disease affects both skeletal muscle and cardiac (heart) muscle and is frequently found in both the leg and the heart. Of the skeletal muscles, the thigh (hindquarters) is most common but it may be found in the front legs, along the back (lumbar area), brisket, neck, diaphragm, and tongue or in multiple muscles. 5. Why the name “blackleg?” The toxin produced by the bacteria causes muscle necrosis (death) resulting in dark red to black discoloration of the affected muscle (see Figure 1). When cut, the affected muscle has a characteristic odor of rancid butter. Diagnosis is easily made at necropsy and the bacteria type can be confirmed with several different tests. 6. Does it only occur in young calves? Blackleg is commonly thought of as a disease of calves 6-12 months of

COW COUNTRY •

Figure 1: Photo of hindlimb muscle affected with blackleg. Note the red to black discoloration.

age on pasture. However, it can occur in very young calves (1-2 months of age) or even in adult cattle if non-vaccinated or if adults were only vaccinated once as calves. 7. Does it only occur in cattle on pasture? It most commonly affects pastured cattle because they consume spores present in the soil. However, it can occur in housed cattle when feed is contaminated with soil that contains the spores. A very large outbreak in Norway where 72 housed cattle died within 12 days was traced to round bale silage with heavy soil contamination. 8. If there is no history of blackleg on the farm, does that mean there will never be a case there? Blackleg is, in a word, unpredictable. It may suddenly appear on farms where it was never known to exist or has been absent for decades. On the flip side, areas or places where blackleg is common may go many years between cases, even without

JANUARY 2021

adequate vaccination. 9. Is blackleg associated with a certain weather pattern or season? Most cases occur during or after periods of high rainfall or after movement of soil such as building or cleaning out a pond. Flooding may spread the spores and water saturated soil is thought to have less oxygen which may induce germination of the spores and multiplication. Soil excavation is believed to bring more spores to the soil surface. Blackleg cases are seen throughout the year in Kentucky. 10. Are the available vaccines effective? Vaccination against C. chauvoei is cheap, easy and close to 100% effective in preventing blackleg if given prior to exposure and according to label directions. One dose of blackleg vaccine given to a newborn calf is not enough to be protective because they cannot mount an effective immune response. However, good quality colostrum from the dam will protect the calf from disease

• A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E K E N T U C K Y C AT T L E M E N ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N

Figure 3: Notice the Bar Vac CD/T (above) does not contain Clostridium chauvoei (blackleg organism) like the Bar-Vac (below). Figure 2: Make sure the vaccine has Clostridium chauvoei on the label for blackleg protection.

up to 3-4 months until vaccination is effective. Most blackleg vaccines require a two-shot series administered 3-4 weeks apart. One product, Alpha 7 (Boehringer Ingelheim) only requires one dose but calves vaccinated under 3 months of age must be re-vaccinated at weaning or at 4-6 months of age to be protective. All blackleg vaccines recommend an annual booster. 11. Do adult cattle need a blackleg vaccine? This is a common question with no definitive answer. Certainly the cases of blackleg decrease dramatically after 24 months of age but it still occurs. Since the spores may lie dormant in an animal for years, the potential remains for disease in poorly vaccinated adults. One thing is certain, annual vaccination of adult cows will improve the antibodies produced and delivered in colostrum so longer, stronger protection is provided to her calves at birth. 12. Is blackleg vaccine considered a killed or live vaccine? Neither! Clostridial vaccines are usually labeled as “toxoids” or “bacterin-toxoids” because the antibodies produced by the vaccine actually neutralize the deadly toxin produced by the growing bacteria rather than the bacteria alone. 13. Why are blackleg vaccines called 7- or 8-way vaccines and is COW COUNTRY •

JANUARY 2021

one better than the other? There are several diseases in cattle caused by different Clostridial species so the “antigens” are all typically included in the blackleg vaccine. Clostridium chauvoei is the causative agent for blackleg while Cl. novyi is the agent in Black Disease (infectious hepatitis), Cl. septicum in malignant edema, Cl. sordelli in gas gangrene and Cl. perfringens Types C and D in various types of enterotoxemia. An 8-way vaccine contains an additional agent, Cl. haemolyticum, that causes “Red Water” disease in cattle but is not found in KY and considered unnecessary for cattle here. One important Clostridial disease, tetanus, is due to Cl. tetani but it is found in very few blackleg vaccines. Covexin 8 and Calvary 9 (Merck) are examples of blackleg vaccines that contain a tetanus toxoid. 14. What about the blackleg vaccines combined with other agents such as pinkeye? Blackleg vaccines are found in many different combination products including with pinkeye (Moraxella bovis), with “somnus” (Histophilus somni), and Zoetis makes a combination blackleg and “pasteurella” vaccine called “One Shot Ultra 7”. All these vaccines are considered effective if used according to label directions, meaning a booster is given at the right time if indicated.

• A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E K E N T U C K Y C AT T L E M E N ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N

FEATURE

NEW REPORT ASSESSES IMPACT OF COVID-19 ON CONSUMER BEHAVIORS THE “STATE OF THE CONSUMER” REPORT HIGHLIGHTS OPPORTUNITIES, IMPACT OF COVID-19 ON BEEF DEMAND The number of consumers who say they intend to eat beef at least weekly increased from 67 percent to 72 percent compared to 2019, and consumer positive perceptions of beef reached 70 percent for the first time,[1] according to a new report released by the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA), a contractor to the Beef Checkoff, that examines the impact of COVID-19 pandemic on consumer attitudes, behaviors and perceptions. “The impact of the pandemic has been transformative in every corner of our economy,” said Buck Wehrbein, 2020 NCBA Federation Division Chair. “The good news is that consumers are choosing beef more often as they adapt to cooking more at home.”

especially as its dynamics continue to shift,” NCBA Senior Director of Market Research Shawn Darcy said. “As a result, this helps all checkoff programs be more efficient, whether through promotion, education or information distribution.” With unemployment rates climbing higher during the pandemic than they have in decades, 65 percent of consumers remain very concerned about the impact of COVID-19, especially with its effects onto the economy. Despite not knowing how this pandemic will continue to shape the consumer landscape, the “State of the Consumer” report provides valuable information to help the beef industry better understand the quickly changing environment. Key take-aways include:

The report outlines what consumer behaviors have changed, what behaviors may be permanent and how the beef industry has and continues to respond. With support from the 44 state beef councils and the Beef Checkoff program, current market and consumer research provides insight into the past year and helps inform programming and response in order to keep beef as the top protein choice for consumers.

• Online ordering for both groceries and meal ordering is likely here to stay. It is expected online ordering and delivery will grow at a more rapid pace than originally projected due to COVID-19. Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner., managed by NCBA, will continue to complete first-of-its-kind exploratory e-commerce marketing campaigns to help the supply chain accelerate the sales of fresh beef in this rapidly changing environment.

checkoff-funded market “NCBA’s research program allows us to evaluate and understand the consumer landscape,

• Consumers are cooking more meals at home now than prior to COVID-19. This means they are searching for

COW COUNTRY •

information to help them cook meals at home. Though expected to continue for the short term, a long-term shift is difficult to assess. NCBA will continue to utilize a variety of techniques by pushing out cooking information and recipe inspiration through digital, social media and traditional media platforms and leveraging impactful, high-profile influencers or thought leaders to teach consumers how to cook. • Consumers are spending more time at home and online than prior to COVID-19. Along with that comes the rise of more TV and movingstreaming platforms and the decline of in-person movie theater watching experience, which could signal a long-term shift in consumers using more media “inside of the home” compared to “out-of-home.” NCBA will continue to utilize a variety of marketing platforms to continuously reach the consumer through paid, earned and owned digital, social and traditional media platforms. • Currently, consumers are more focused on spending their money on essential needs, such as groceries, household supplies and personal care and cleaning products. This will likely adjust back at some point; it

JANUARY 2021

is just a matter of when. NCBA, as a contractor to the Beef Checkoff, will continue to look for opportunities to remind consumers that beef is the classic comfort food that they want as the centerpiece of their dinner, especially as we move into the holiday season. • Positive consumer perceptions of beef and beef production increased during the pandemic and will likely remain higher for the next several months. Consumers may return to expressing concerns about food production when focus evolves from current concerns. NCBA will continue programs that educate consumers about beef and beef production. Beef demand has remained strong todate. Consumers increased weekly beef eatings and were willing to pay more for the product. With strong domestic consumer demand-building programs Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner., and other demand building programs, NCBA will keep focused on keeping this strong demand going through innovated checkoff-funded programs. The full “State of the Consumer” Report, with detailed statistics and graphs can be found at https://bit.ly/2KwZBWL.

• A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E K E N T U C K Y C AT T L E M E N ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N

B E T T E R B E E F S T A R T S W I T H B E T T E R H AY. When livestock is your livelihood, count on the complete lineup of Massey Ferguson ® compact and utility tractors and Hesston ® hay tool options. Our tractors and hay equipment produce high-quality hay more quickly and efficiently for your cattle operation. And for a limited time, they’re available with exclusive discounts up to $2,000.*

WHEN YOU BUY

YOU SAVE*

WHEN YOU BUY

YOU SAVE*

GC Sub-Compact Tractors

$250

Mower Conditioners

$500

Disc Mowers

$250

Round Balers / Small Square Balers

$500

Rakes & Tedders

$250

MF 4700 Global Series

$750

MF 1800E / MF 1700E Series

$400

MF 5700 / MF 6700 Global Series

$1,000

MF 1800M / MF 1700M / Premium

$500

MF 5700SL / MF 5700S / MF 6700S Series

$2,000

MF 2600H / MF 2700E Series

$500

Extreme Sports Leitchfield, KY • 270-287-0071 www.extremesportsatv.com

Montgomery Tractor Sales, Inc. Flemingsburg, KY • 606-209-0131 Mount Sterling, KY • 859-498-0342 www.montgomerytractorsales.com

Valley Farm Equipment, Inc. Science Hill, KY • 606-423-3421 www.valleyfarmeq.com

Bowling Green, KY • 270-843-3275

Boyd Company Columbia, KY • 270-290-6150 Elizabethtown, KY • 270-769-1300 www.whaynewalker.com

Lexington, KY • 859-254-2756

Learn more at www.masseyferguson.us, or visit your Massey Ferguson dealer.

* Discount applies to members of national, regional and local cattle associations. Contact your participating dealer for more details. Offer expires soon and may be subject to change without notice. ©2021 AGCO Corporation. Massey Ferguson is a worldwide brand of AGCO Corporation. Hesston is a brand of AGCO. AGCO, Massey Ferguson and Hesston are trademarks of AGCO. All rights reserved.

COW COUNTRY •

JANUARY 2021

• A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E K E N T U C K Y C AT T L E M E N ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N

FEATURE

USMEF STRATEGIC PLANNING CONFERENCE NOVEMBER 10 – 13, 2020 Jon Bednarski, USMEF Representative, Kentucky Beef Council Due to COVID and restrictions on travel and large gatherings, this year’s fall conference was held virtually. After having participated in numerous Zoom calls and webinars over the last 9 months, I was apprehensive about sitting in on a 3 day event. During the opening general session, I quickly realized that USMEF with all the available technology would be presenting an informative program. Dan Halstrom, President and CEO at USMEF updated us on the organizations activities over the last 12 months. Similar to the U.S., red meat sales to consumers internationally have exploded while the food service sector, which supplies restaurants and institutions, has struggled at best. Limited production here in the states slowed what could

have been a record sales year. That said, January-July sales still increased over the previous year in Brazil, Argentina, the EU, Mexico and Paraguay. Day two was an update on marketing strategies since COVID by USMEF veteran representatives working in South Korea, Hong Kong and Mexico. South Korea Highlights: • E-commerce up 40-50% • Retail consumers want steak kits and short ribs

nearly back to normal levels. Hong Kong’s frozen red meat products are thriving in E-Commerce for consumers. Mexico – Beef exports up 23% (195,272 mt.) from January to June, but have slowed due to production issues in the US. Although beef exports are down slightly this year due to interruptions in slaughter at processing plants, export is still around 12% of the overall U.S. Beef Market.

• 5 star hotels with restaurants are offering delivery and takeout

USMEF carries out market development activities in more than 80 countries.

Hong Kong – Because of their independence from mainland China and their immediate COVID lockdown, have their economy (other than tourism)

• Marketing – Creating demand in international markets for US meat

These activities fall into several primary areas:

• Trade Servicing – Working to bring buyer and seller together and by conducting both market and product research. • Market Access – Providing the U.S. government and industry with the market intelligence necessary to secure, maintain and develop fair and reasonable access to international markets. In my opinion, future growth of the U.S. Beef Market will need to come internationally. The Kentucky Beef Council as long standing members of USMEF can feel good about the work being done to promote and represent our industry.

TERRITORY MANAGER

info@mlstubs.com

through promotions, trade seminars, consumer education, advertising and public relations.

Gary West 731-335-3023

COW COUNTRY •

JANUARY 2021

• A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E K E N T U C K Y C AT T L E M E N ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N

Generations of producers have grown to trust Y-TEX®. When you try our products, you’ll understand why. For the past 50 years, Y-TEX® has offered livestock producers some of best brands in the business. From our durable and dependable identiﬁcation ear tags to our advanced insecticide tags and pour-on products, Y-TEX® products are designed to deliver exceptional performance at down-to-earth prices. So, when it’s time tag or treat your herd, count on the brand that stands for excellence in animal health: Y-TEX®.

COW COUNTRY •

JANUARY 2021

• A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E K E N T U C K Y C AT T L E M E N ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N

FEATURE

GOV. BESHEAR AND KENTUCKY AGRICULTURAL DEVELOPMENT BOARD APPROVE NEARLY $7 MILLION FOR PROJECTS ACROSS COMMONWEALTH PROJECTS AND PROGRAMS APPROVED SPAN THE DIVERSE ARRAY OF KENTUCKY AGRICULTURE The Kentucky Agricultural Development Board approved $6,914,331 for agricultural diversification and rural development projects across the commonwealth at its monthly board meeting. “In November, the Kentucky Agricultural Development Board approved one of its largest totals in 2020: more than $6.9 million,” said Gov. Andy Beshear. “This robust funding will provide resources to thousands of agriculturalists and continue to support our vast agriculture industry, from beef and dairy production to beekeeping and community gardens and so much more.” State Investments: Statewide Marketing and Promotion for Kentucky Agriculture The Kentucky Department of Agriculture (KDA) was approved for $2,624,895 in state funds for calendar years 2021 and 2022 to fund the Kentucky Proud program. Kentucky Proud serves as Kentucky’s official agriculture marketing and promotional program, and its membership spans the entire spectrum

Meat Processing Investment Program – Level 2

of agriculture in the commonwealth. Statewide Production and Marketing for Beef Producers The Kentucky Beef Network (KBN) was approved for $1,445,400 in state funds for calendar years 2021 and 2022 to continue to provide programs that enhance net farm income for cattle producers. The KBN provides a variety of programs for beef producers on topics such as grazing, backgrounding, finishing, business development and more.

Owl Holl’er LLC, located in Allen County, was approved for $37,500 in state funds to purchase and install a freezer and cooler equipment, and to make improvements to its custom processing facility. Meat Processing Investment Program – Level 3 Hometown Butcher, located in Adair

County, was approved for $250,000 in state funds as a forgivable loan to expand its processing facility and purchase additional processing equipment. Trackside Butcher Shoppe LLC, located in Henry County, was approved for $250,000 in state funds as a forgivable loan to expand its processing facility to include a second meat processing room with the necessary processing and packaging equipment.

Education, Representation, and Promotion of Kentucky Dairy Producers The Kentucky Dairy Development Council (KDDC) was approved for $1,594,123 in state funds for calendar years 2021 and 2022 to continue its mission of educating, representing and promoting Kentucky’s dairy producers and dairy industry as a whole. The KDDC provides a number of programs for dairy producers to improve sustainability and profitability of the dairy industry in Kentucky.

Read about other key updates, actions and information from Gov. Beshear and his administration at governor.ky.gov, kycovid19.ky.gov and the Governor’s official social media accounts Facebook, Twitter and YouTube. Gov. Beshear and the General Assembly continue to make great strides toward lessening Kentucky’s dependence on tobacco production while revitalizing the farm economy by investing a portion of Kentucky’s Master Tobacco Settlement Agreement Funds into the Kentucky Agricultural Development Fund (KADF). To date, the KADF investments total more than $630 million in an array of county, regional and state projects designed to increase net farm income and create sustainable new farmbased business enterprises. These funding approvals, made possible by the KADF, represent just a few of the more than 6,400 projects approved, since the inception of the program in January 2001. “Like” us at www.facebook.com/kyagpolicy and “Follow” us on Twitter @GOAPky to receive updates and information from the Governor’s Office of Agricultural Policy.

COW COUNTRY •

JANUARY 2021

• A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E K E N T U C K Y C AT T L E M E N ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N

OFFERING LOANS, LEASES AND CROP INSURANCE FOR YOUR OPERATION'S NEEDS.

isit us at or call us at to learn more.

Subject to credit approval. Additional terms and conditions may apply. Farm Credit Mid-America is an equal opportunity lender and provider.

COW COUNTRY •

JANUARY 2021

• A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E K E N T U C K Y C AT T L E M E N ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N

LEGISLATIVE UPDATE

NCBA COMMENDS SELECTION OF VILSACK TO LEAD USDA The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) today issued the following statement in support of Tom Vilsack’s pending nomination as Secretary of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA):

unnecessary duplicative NEPA reviews. Thank you to the U.S. Department of Agriculture and USFS for following through with this process.” The final rule contains a series of new categorical exclusions (CEs) and a Determination of NEPA Adequacy. CEs are a NEPA process that are completed when a determination is made that the proposed action will not have a significant impact. The proposed rule released by the USFS in June 2019 was broader than the contents of the final rule. NCBA and PLC will continue to work with USFS officials and NEPA experts across the administration to finalize other components of the 2019 proposed rule, as directed by the updated NEPA regulations finalized by the White House Council on Environmental Quality in July 2020.

“Former USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack is adding another chapter to an already storied career in agriculture. He has the unique skill set to be able to hit the ground running on day one and cattle producers are thankful for this continuity,” said NCBA CEO Colin Woodall. “Secretary Vilsack knows the issues facing America’s cattle producers and can utilize his extensive experience to showcase the positive impact we have on food security, nutrition, and our natural resources. We look forward to working with him for the betterment of Background beef farmers and ranchers.” Changes to NEPA under this rule include:

Eby Aluminum Trailers

Gooseneck steel and aluminum trailers

HAYES TRAILER SALES INC

• Six new CEs, including activities NCBA & PLC SECURE NEPA related to recreation special uses, IMPROVEMENTS FOR LIVESTOCK administrative sites, recreation sites, PRODUCERS

Russellville, Kentucky 800-766-7034 hayestrailersales.com

restoration and resilience projects, WASHINGTON (Nov. 18, 2020) – The and certain road management National Cattlemen’s Beef Association projects. (NCBA) Executive Director of Natural Resources and the Public Lands Council • Consolidating two CEs into one related to existing special uses. (PLC) Executive Director Kaitlynn Glover today released the following • Expanding two CEs related to special statement on the U.S. Forest Service’s use authorizations on up to 20 acres (USFS) final rule to update the agency’s of National Forest System lands and National Environmental Policy Act decommissioning of authorized and (NEPA) regulations: unauthorized roads and trails on National Forest System lands. “Today’s announcement represents decades of work by livestock producers • Determination of NEPA Adequacy who have told the Forest Service process by which a previous and other federal agencies for years environmental analysis may be used that NEPA regulations need serious for a subsequently proposed action if improvement. This rule formalizes the prior NEPA adequately assesses changes that will allow USFS to be better the impacts of the proposed action partners to ranchers and stakeholders and reasonable alternatives. who depend on healthy forests and grasslands. These are common-sense The changes in the final rule will become changes that add clarity by streamlining final on November 19, 2020. More NEPA processes and ensuring that information is available on the USFS agencies are not spending time on website. 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 1-866-BEEFUSA or membership@beef.org.

COW COUNTRY •

JANUARY 2021

• A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E K E N T U C K Y C AT T L E M E N ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N

Backed by science for them. Healthier calves for you.

Alltech’s trademark technology formulated to feed the gastrointestinal tract, support gut integrity and promote overall performance at any stage of cattle production.

Elizabeth Lunsford, Territory Sales Manager elunsford@alltech.com | 859-553-0072 Alltech.com

COW COUNTRY •

AlltechNaturally

JANUARY 2021

@Alltech

• A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E K E N T U C K Y C AT T L E M E N ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N

Zach Postin, Territory Sales Manager zpostin@alltech.com | 859-553-4669

FEATURE

DR. K ATIE FLYNN PROMOTED TO KENTUCKY STATE VET POSITION; DR. ALEX HAGAN SELECTED FOR DEPUTY STATE VET SLOT LO N G T I M E K E N T U C K Y S TAT E V E T D R . R O B E RT S TO U T W I L L R E T I R E I N D E C E M B E R

FRANKFORT (Nov. 25, 2020) – The Kentucky State Board of Agriculture (SBOA) yesterday unanimously approved Dr. Katie Flynn to serve as the new State Veterinarian at the Kentucky Department of Agriculture (KDA). Dr. Flynn joined KDA as the Deputy State Veterinarian earlier this year. Dr. Alex Hagan, a veterinarian in Shelbyville, Kentucky, has been approved by the SBOA to serve as Deputy State Veterinarian, taking Flynn’s vacated post. “Today’s announcement is the result of the most transparent and thorough hiring process the State Board of Agriculture has ever undertaken,” said Agriculture Commissioner Dr. Ryan Quarles, who serves as SBOA chairman. “With Dr. Flynn’s regulatory animal health background and Dr. Hagan’s on-the-farm experience, we have a topnotch team to lead our Office of State Veterinarian.” The State Veterinarian and Deputy State Veterinarian are the chief executive officers of the State Board of Agriculture and lead the KDA’s Office of State Veterinarian in its statutory and regulatory activities to prevent, control, and eradicate communicable diseases in the agricultural animal health sector. A search committee approved by the board recommended Drs. Flynn and Hagan to the State Board of Agriculture. Dr. Flynn replaces Dr. Robert Stout, who announced his intention to retire from the department in December of 2020. Prior to joining the KDA as the Homeland Security Coordinator in 2003, Dr. Stout had served as an equine and large animal veterinarian since 1973. He was appointed Kentucky State Veterinarian by the SBOA in February 2004. “I am humbled and honored to build on the foundation established by Dr.

Tim Dievert 478 Dry Fork Rd. • Danville, KY 40422 Office:859/236-4591 (C)859/238-3195 • tdievert@dievertsales.com www.dievertsales.com

Catalogs or more information available by contacting Tim Dievert. Central Kentucky Angus Association’s

57th Annual Winter Sale: January 23, 2021 • 1PM EST CKAA Sales Pavilion Danville, Kentucky

Selling 65 Head + 2 Embryo Packages SEE AD ON PAGE 12

Dr. Katie Flynn

Dr. Alex Hagan

Stout at the Kentucky Department of Agriculture,” Dr. Flynn said. “I thank the State Board of Agriculture for all their efforts in advancing the health of Kentucky’s animal agriculture industry and continued work on promoting opportunities for Kentucky’s thriving agricultural sector.”

this office, something that should make all of Kentucky proud,” Commissioner Quarles said. “In fact, for the first time in KDA history, more of the Department’s offices are led by women than ever before.”

Prior to coming to the KDA, Dr. Flynn served as the Veterinary Specialist for the California Department of Food and Agriculture’s (CDFA) Animal Health Branch. Dr. Flynn received her Bachelor of Science degree in animal science from the University of Massachusetts in 1995, and her veterinary degree from the University of Glasgow, Scotland, in 2001. Throughout her 18 years of regulatory animal health experience, Dr. Flynn has developed awareness of animal disease prevention through enhanced biosecurity and has authored educational materials, which have been distributed to all 50 states and 12 countries. She has been a licensed veterinarian in Kentucky for three years.

Dr. Alex Hagan, of Shelbyville, currently serves as large animal veterinarian at Wonderlich Veterinary Services, where he has experience in preventative and emergency animal medicine. Dr. Hagan studied animal science and biology at Morehead State University and received

his doctorate of veterinary medicine from Auburn University in 2011. He holds a category II accreditation with the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Veterinary Program. “I have enjoyed my time in private practice and cherish the relationships with the farmers I have worked for,” Dr. Hagan said. “I am very excited to work alongside Commissioner Quarles, Dr. Flynn, and KDA to continue to serve and support our animal industries in Kentucky.”

“This announcement also makes history as Dr. Flynn is the first woman to serve in

COW COUNTRY •

JANUARY 2021

• A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E K E N T U C K Y C AT T L E M E N ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N

AutoTrac™

JDLink™

Suspended front axle

Front hitch and PTO

GET A LOAD OF OUR 5R OPTIONS 5R Series Utility Tractors from John Deere offer more advanced technology than ever before. With the introduction of factoryinstalled integrated AutoTrac – along with other important options like JDLink*, suspended front axle, and front hitch and PTO – the 5R can help you boost productivity.

Visit JohnDeere.com/5FAMILY today to learn more.

You’ll also be in position to reduce fuel costs, capture valuable data, and experience an even more comfortable ride.

* Activation/subscription required. Some additional accessories and/or components may be required. JDLink requires a cellular data connection to transfer information from machine to JDLink website. Consult your local John Deere Dealer for coverage availability. COW COUNTRY •

JANUARY 2021

80008-4_9.5X9.5.indd 1

• A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E K E N T U C K Y C AT T L E M E N ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N

12/4/20 1:16 PM

FEATURE

STRONG OCTOBER FOR PORK AND BEEF MUSCLE CUT EXPORTS; VARIETY MEAT TRENDS LOWER

Normal = Me Time Daily feeding of BOVAMINE DEFEND® to cattle supports normal functions of the rumen and intestinal tract— digestion, absorption, barrier functions, and immunity—keeping cattle normal and healthy. With that peace-of-mind, you’ll have time to do what matters most.

U.S. pork exports posted broad-based gains in October, solidifying 2020’s record pace, according to data released by USDA and compiled by the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF). Beef muscle cut exports were also higher than a year ago in October, though lower variety meat volumes pushed total beef exports slightly below last year. October pork exports were up 8% yearover-year to 242,536 metric tons (mt), with value also increasing 8% to $641.1 million. Exports to Mexico, Japan, China/ Hong Kong, Canada and the Philippines were substantially higher than a year ago while shipments to Central and South America were the largest since March. Through the first 10 months of the year, pork exports were 15% ahead of last year’s record pace at 2.46 million mt, with value up 16% to $6.33 billion. With Mexico as the top volume destination, October muscle cut exports posted double digits gains at 201,723 mt (up 11%), with value up 10% to $551.8 million. This pushed January-October totals for pork muscle cuts to 2.07 million mt (up 20%) valued at $5.49 billion (up 18%). October beef exports were slightly lower than a year ago at 107,591 mt (down 0.4%), valued at $646 million (down 0.5%), but exports to China set another new record and volumes were above year-ago levels to Japan, Taiwan, Central America and Africa. While still below last year, beef exports to Mexico were the largest since March. For January through October, beef exports trailed last year’s pace by 7% in volume (1.02 million mt) and 8% in value ($6.2 billion). Beef muscle cut exports trended higher than

Scan this QR code to learn how our products and services support normal: normal feed, normal animals, normal life.

a year ago in October, increasing 5% to 85,445 mt valued at $573.8 million (up 1%). January-October muscle cut exports were 5% below last year in volume (791,694 mt) and 8% lower in value ($5.48 billion). “While the tight labor situation continues to limit the cut and variety meat specifications available for export, red meat demand is strengthening in many critical markets,” said USMEF President and CEO Dan Halstrom. “October exports of bone-in hams, for example, were near the July record and up 50% from a year ago. This has been a volatile year, filled with shifts in consumer preferences and a lot of uncertainty for international buyers. But the U.S. industry has responded positively to these challenges and the demand dynamics for red meat are quite strong as we approach year’s end. When the gains made at retail over the past several months are combined with a stronger foodservice recovery, the prospects for export growth are very promising.” October exports of U.S. lamb were below last year but muscle cut exports trended sharply higher, mainly on strong growth to Mexico. Through October, lamb exports increased 31% from a year ago to 17,355 mt, but value was down 5% to $20.5 million. Lamb muscle cut volume was substantially higher at 8,203 mt (up 355%) with a more modest increase in export value ($12.4 million, up 7%). A detailed summary of U.S. red meat exports through October, including market-specific highlights, is available from the USMEF website.

COW COUNTRY •

www.chr-hansen.com

BOVAMINE DEFEND® is listed in the BIFSCO pre-harvest library as a product which has met the established requirements for listing. Bovamine Defend_MeTime_Ad__KCA.indd 1

12/16/20 12:31 PM

Designed for Feeding Performance

—

AMERICAN MADE Feed Mixers Roto-Mix designs and manufactures over 50 different models of feed mixers here in the U.S.A. We offer vertical and horizontal mixers from 270 to 1300 cubic foot capacities for any size of Dairy or Beef operation. 415 Vertical Mixer Single auger mixer with 415 cu. ft. mixing capacity. Available in trailer only.

Cowherd Equipment & Rental Inc. 1483 Old Summersville Rd. Campbellsville, KY 42718 PH: (270) 465-2679

JANUARY 2021

620.225.1142 Roto-mix.com

• A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E K E N T U C K Y C AT T L E M E N ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N

Mon-Tues 7AM-3PM Wed-Fri 8AM-4PM Sunday Brunch Coming Soon!

LIVESTOCK MARKETING GROUP Albany

Cattle Sale Every Wednesday 9:30 AM(CT) Cow Sale 2nd Friday of Every Month 6:00 PM(CT) Bret Carver 270-459-0724

Campbellsville

Cattle Sales Every Wednesday & Saturday 10:00 AM Cow Sales As Announced Ronnie Choate 270-465-4051 or 270-766-8240

East-Mt. Sterling

Cattle Sales Every Wednesday 8:30 AM & Saturday 11:00 AM Jeff Copher 859-229-7587

Maysville

Cattle Sales Every Tuesday 10:30 AM Cow Sale 3rd Friday of Every Month 6:30 PM Corey Story 606-209-1543

Blue Grass Lexington 2021 CPH Schedule

Wednesday, February 10, 5:30 PM Wednesday, May 12, 5:30 PM

Lexington

Cattle Sales Every Monday & Tuesday 9:00 AM Cow Sale 4th Wednesday of Every Month 6:30 PM Jeremy Shryock 859-967-6479

Richmond

Cattle Sales Every Friday 9:00 AM Cow Sale 2nd Friday of Every Month 1:00 PM

Hog, Goat & Sheep Sale 2nd & 4th Monday of Every Month 1:00 PM

Jim Dause 859-314-7211

South-Stanford

Cattle Sales Every Monday & Thursday 8:30 AM Cow Sale 3rd Friday of Every Month 6:30 PM David Holt 502-680-0797

Internet at Blue Grass

Video Sales 2nd & 4th Tuesday of Every Month 1:00 PM Adam Menker 419-310-5344

Let Blue Grass Host Your Next Event or Purebred Sale State of the art facilities, conveniently located close to I-75 & I-64.

South-Stanford 606-365-0665

Albany 606-387-4681

Check out the new restaurant at Blue Grass Lexington

Richmond 859-623-1280

Campbellsville 270-465-4051

East-Mt. Sterling 859-498-9625 Maysville 606-759-7280

www.bgstockyards.com COW COUNTRY •

JANUARY 2021

• A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E K E N T U C K Y C AT T L E M E N ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N

FEATURE

TWIN CALVES LEAD TO NEW WHEELCHAIR FOR CLINTON COUNTY MAN Steve Peddicord Multi-billionaire Warren Buffet was once quoted as saying, “It always seems impossible until it’s done.” Although the fundraising project for John Asberry’s Trackchair was never actually looked at as impossible, until it was done, John was still faced with the same challenges of using an ordinary wheelchair to do unordinary things. John Asberry was born with spina bifida which is a deformity of the spinal cord affecting the nerves going to the lower half of the body. In short, it causes extreme weakness in the legs. It has no cure. It relegates individuals with this condition to a wheelchair for daily activities. But this scenario is exactly where spina bifida met it’s challenge, because John, from an early age, was determined this set back would not slow him down. Unordinary daily activities are the basis for an ordinary day in the life of John Asberry. “I just like doing a lot of different things. I raise a lot of different kinds of animals, turkeys, goats, baby bottle calves, and just about anything. I grow lots of different

plants and garden foods, I sell mums and gourds in the fall, and I do woodworking projects also when the weather is bad and I can’t get outside.” says John. John’s parents Donnie and Billie Joyce have always been supportive of John’s interest and encouraged him to not look at himself as handicapped. “John is just a normal child in our mind that has some unnormal things to overcome. His work ethic is unmatched compared to many 26 year olds I see today,” notes Billie Joyce. Being a 26 year-old young man with lots of work interests, along with Billie Joyce and Donnie approaching retirement age, the stage was quickly being set for the need to get John a more applicable device so he could get around and do the things he does. “We decided to put together a Youtube video with the help of a lot of John’s friends to share the need in the community. The cost to get the type of chair John needed was very high. Some he had looked at were between $15,000 $20,000. We put the video on Facebook, and got lots of caring comments and interest, but we really didn’t have an

organized way to coordinate the whole project and make it work. Everyone wanted to help but we just didn’t know where to start. It looked impossible to be honest. But you know God had plan. He was way ahead of us and we were just catching up!” added Billie Joyce. New Born Calf Delivered To John About this same time, on the other side of Clinton county, a set of twin calves were about to be born on the farm of Steve and Dr. Carol Peddicord of Albany. It was the middle of fall calving season, and Steve’s herd of Gelbvieh cows were cranking out baby calves right and left with no problems. That is until the morning of August 27. “I went out to check the cows early that morning and I noticed one cow had a pair of nice red twin male calves. I’ve never been a fan of twin calves because most momma cows either won’t take them both, or simply can’t raise two. This was one of my better Balancer cows but I

COW COUNTRY •

JANUARY 2021

could see real quick she would not accept one of the calves.” “When this happens, the only thing to do is to first get some colostrum into the calf as soon as possible and then find a good home for it. I’ve done the bottle calf route before, but I didn’t really want to start that with this one. I guess I’m getting old! (laughs).” “I took a photo of the calf and decided to put it on Facebook asking if anyone would be interested in a bottle calf. I was hoping just to get a call. I was surprised to get 43 calls that day! Next year I may just sell all bottle calves and go fishing.” The first person that saw the ad on Facebook that morning was John’s mother. “I called Steve and told him John was wanting a bottle calf because he had just lost one a few weeks earlier and already had the supplies,” said Billie. “I knew John a little bit from seeing him at church, but didn’t really know him. It wasn’t really about making money on the

• A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E K E N T U C K Y C AT T L E M E N ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N

The next step in the process was for John and Greg to get together and determine exactly what type of device John needed. They met at the Asberry farm, looked over John’s activities and selected a Trackchair and covered carrier that would work. The estimated cost was about $16,000. The goal had now been set. It was time to get the word out, get some fundraising ideas together, and make this happen for John. “I told Billie Joyce and Donnie upfront we were going to start September 1st and do this for 30 days only. At that point we would wrap it up and see where we were. I don’t like to drag things out, and believe in getting things done and moving on to the next project. Let’s make it happen.” TLCA Gets Involved

calf, I just wanted him to go to a good home and make it. So I told Billie Joyce he could have it for $25 and I’d even bring it to them,” said Steve. “The funny thing was I had just watched the youtube video of John the night before. I was actually going to call and see if we could donate some money or help in any way. Never did I dream how things were unfolding. So I delivered the calf to John, and while we were walking to the little barn he was going to raise the calf in, I noticed how wet and slippery the grass was. I also noticed John was having trouble maneuvering his wheel chair. So I asked John the silly question, “Have you ever tipped over in that wheelchair out here in the field?” “Oh yes”, replied John, “all the time.” “So how do you get back up?” I asked. “Well I usually have to call my Mom or Dad to come get up,” said John. “But the problem now is they are getting older and it’s getting harder to raise me back up.” Something Can Be Done I immediately thought to myself that this was not good. Something had to be done. Here was a young man trying to do things that most normal people take for granted. Plus he was trying to do these things with a tremendous amount of risk and challenge. He needed a safer device that would afford him the opportunity to be more independent. What was needed at this point was some type of group or organization to coordinate a fundraising opportunity COW COUNTRY •

JANUARY 2021

to get John a safer device. Because of John’s interest in animals, and now with a new bottle calf to raise, the Twin Lakes Cattleman’s Association (TLCA) seemed like a viable option. Being the current President of TLCA, and knowing how we could coordinate some fundraising activities, I asked John and his parents if they would like for us to spearhead this project. Everyone agreed this looked like a good plan and would be our best shot at trying to raise the money needed to buy the Trackchair.

The TLCA developed a three tier plan to try and generate the needed $16,000. Tier #1 was to accept donations from anyone that wanted to make a cash donation. Secondly, TLCA and its members would host a cooking event in Albany to accept donations. Beef filet sandwiches and hamburgers would be grilled by the cooking team during the one day cooking event. Thirdly, a raffle would be established to give away door prizes and help raise money. All donations and funds collected were though the TLCA. Likewise all expenses

including the purchase of the Trackchair itself were handled by the association. Over next 26 days, enough money was collected to completely pay for the new Trackchair and carrier, cover all food and advertising expenses, and provide an additional 25 door prizes to the original 15 donated by individuals and businesses. “It’s just been amazing and beyond our expectations,” rejoiced Billie Joyce. “God has not only blessed us, but has blessed our community, church, and everyone that had a part in making this a reality for John. We will forever be indebted for everyone’s kindness. God is good,” added Billie Joyce. And now for John the work begins with a new way of getting things done. As he motors out in his new device to bottle feed “Doc” (the red bottle calf) John replies, “ I really want to thank everyone for what they have done. Words can’t express what this means to me and my family,” noted an excited John. “I can be much more independent now and I want to be able to help those people that have helped me too!” So now that it is “done”, the impossible is nowhere to found. A community, family, and friends saw a need to make a persons life more possible….and made it happen.

“As far as what type of device he needed, what it was going to cost, and where to start looking for one, I honestly had no idea,” Steve noted. “We had made a few comments back and forth on John’s Facebook page but nothing really significant.” Then, later that night I got a call from Bro. Jim Daniels who is Pastor of the Mill Springs Christian Church. Brother Jim saw the conversation on Facebook, was interested, and said they would help in any way. Then he mentioned to me they had a member in their church, Greg West, that was a distributor for AllTerrain wheelchairs. His daughter had recently received one and he could get whatever John needed. At this point what looked “impossible” was beginning to look much more “possible.” At least it became an opportunity for John to begin exploring the different types of All-terrain wheelchair options that were available.

• A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E K E N T U C K Y C AT T L E M E N ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N

FEATURE

NEW TOOL HELPS FARMERS AND RANCHERS DEVELOP CUSTOM BIOSECURITY PLAN FOR DISEASE PREVENTION NCBA’S BEEF QUALITY ASSURANCE PROGRAM RELEASES A NEW BEEF CHECKOFF-FUNDED TOOL TO HELP CATTLE FARMERS AND RANCHERS ENSURE THEY ARE PREPARED WITH A CUSTOM BIOSECURITY PLAN DENVER, December 14, 2020 – In support of cattle producers across the country dedicated to preventing disease, improving animal welfare and reducing production losses, the Beef Checkofffunded Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) program developed a Daily Biosecurity Plan for Disease Prevention template. The template, which helps cattle producers implement daily biosecurity measures on their operations, is available digitally as a PDF or can be printed for handwritten plans. The template was specifically designed to be customizable, giving producers flexibility in determining management

practices that work best for their cattle operation and covers everything from animal movement to worker training. The goal of this introductory and stepwise program is to provide beef farmers and ranchers across the country with the information needed to implement biosecurity plans. In addition to providing basic information, the tool emphasizes why biosecurity is vital on cattle operations and provides an opportunity for producers to have conversations with their herd veterinarians, extension agents, and state BQA coordinators about biosecurity preparedness.

COW COUNTRY •

“Biosecurity is a top priority for the beef industry,” said Kim Brackett, an Idaho cattle producer and chair of the BQA Advisory Group. “This Beef Checkoff-funded tool allows beef farmers and ranchers to develop their own biosecurity plans unique to their operations. Whether a cow-calf operation in California, a backgrounder in Mississippi or a feedyard in Kansas, being proactive and developing a written plan ahead of a crisis allows producers to implement and become familiar with biosecurity precautions. Even more importantly, producers will be prepared if a biosecurity threat were to happen.”

JANUARY 2021

The Daily Biosecurity Plan for Disease Prevention template was created in collaboration with the United States Department of Agriculture and its Secure Beef Supply plan. By intersecting these resources, producers that already have biosecurity steps in place for day-to-day operations are able to easily move to an enhanced biosecurity plan to prepare for a potential foreign animal disease outbreak For more information about BQA and the BQA Daily Biosecurity Plan, visit BQA.org.

• A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E K E N T U C K Y C AT T L E M E N ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N

FEATURE

NATIONAL FARM MACHINERY SHOW AND CHAMPIONSHIP TRACTOR PULL MOVES DATES TO MARCH 31-APRIL 3 LOUISVILLE, Ky. (December 8, 2020) — Kentucky Venues announced the 56th annual National Farm Machinery Show (NFMS) and 53rd annual Championship Tractor Pull would shift the scheduled 2021 dates from February to March 31-April 3. The National Farm Machinery Show is held annually at the Kentucky Exposition Center and is the largest indoor farm show in the country, featuring 1.2 million square feet of exhibit space. The show is a key player in the agriculture industry, featuring the most comprehensive display of equipment, services and technology. Top brands unveil the latest models of tractors, combines and technological advances each year. “We know how important this show is

to the global agricultural community and with vaccines on the horizon, moving the National Farm Machinery Show allows more time to deliver a safe event. Our new registration process will allow people to reserve for specific days while maintaining a safe attendance cap during all show hours,” said President and CEO of Kentucky Venues David S. Beck. “After the success of our other events and earning accreditation from the Worldwide Cleaning Industry Association for our sanitization and outbreak prevention procedures, we feel confident in our ability to safely produce this crucial event.” NFMS has enacted new procedures to help stop the spread of COVID-19. Those measures include:

•

Every attendee will be required to register for the show, submitting their name and contact information for contact tracing and attendance management.

•

Capacity will be capped to allow for 36 sq. ft. of space per person at any given time.

•

The trade show will be conducted in a hybrid model to allow for both inperson and virtual attendance.

•

Facial coverings will be required for everyone in attendance.

•

Increased hand sanitizer and handwashing stations will be available throughout the property.

The Championship Tractor Pull shows will be live-streamed and in-person

attendance will be capped at 33%, which is 7,000 people. Only half of the rows in Freedom Hall will be available, with closed rows marked to prevent attendees from sitting in them. Additionally, closed seats will be placed between all parties to allow for social distancing. The Pit in Broadbent Arena will be closed to the public. The National Farm Machinery Show is free and open to the public with preregistration. Parking is $10 per vehicle and $20 for a bus. Additional safety measures and show information are available at farmmachineryshow.org. Additional Championship Tractor Pull show information and safety measures are available at champpull.org/.

RISK MANAGEMENT THAT PAYS! • PRF Drought Insurance for Hay & Pasture Ground. • Animal Mortality • LRP

• Lightning • Wind Storm

• Drowning • Theft

• Fire • And More

Designed to minimize the downside price risk while leaving upside potential open.

MIKE GRAVES (859) 319-7382 TYLER CLARKE (859) 963-6874 MIKE TANSIL (615) 400-7367

COW COUNTRY •

JANUARY 2021

• A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E K E N T U C K Y C AT T L E M E N ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N

FEATURE

NORTH AMERICAN INTERNATIONAL LIVESTOCK EXPOSITION COMPLETES SUCCESSFUL SHOW LOUISVILLE, Ky. (November 19, 2020) - The North American International Livestock Exposition (NAILE) wrapped up its annual show run filled with top livestock and equine competition at the Kentucky Exposition Center on November 19.

the animals. Attendees were required to submit their name and contact information to allow for contact tracing.

More than 16,500 animals and participants competed in the event. This world-renowned all-breed, purebred livestock expo features numerous divisions of livestock competition including Dairy Cattle, Beef Cattle, Meat Goat, Swine, Sheep, and Quarter Horse.

• Schedule changes, including the cancellations of the North American Championship Rodeo; Country Store, school tours, and awards banquets;

“We’re proud that we hosted a successful, and most of all, safe North American International Livestock Exposition. We made numerous modifications to this year’s show and we’re grateful that our exhibitors worked with us and were understanding about the new requirements,” said President and CEO of Kentucky Venues David S. Beck. “Together we were able to create a safe and healthy show that set an example of how shows can be done in today’s everchanging environment.”

• Increased hand sanitizer and handwashing stations were available throughout the property.

To ensure a safe and healthy event, NAILE enacted new policies to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. This year’s event was a participant-only show for exhibitors and those assisting with

COW COUNTRY •

JANUARY 2021

Additional safety precautions included: • Masks and requirements;

facial

coverings

• The Saddle and Sirloin Club portrait induction was moved to a virtual ceremony; and

“I felt NAILE was safe. People were willing to make compromises and follow different sets of rules because that meant they still got to participate.” said Dairy Superintendent Kristin Paul. “I think people were very grateful to have the event, especially this year. It was great for people to have something to look forward to.” For more information about the show, visit www.livestockexpo.org. Follow along on Facebook at facebook. com/KYNAILE and Instagram at instagram.com/KY_NAILE.

• A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E K E N T U C K Y C AT T L E M E N ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N

SAVE

time money water Ritchie water is smart water. Provide fresh water for your animals, and have more left for other things in your life. See what owning a Ritchie automatic waterer can do for you at www.ritchiefount.com Partner to the American Cattleman since 1921 Proud to be a sponsor of:

AmMAD si e E I N nc r e 1 ic 92 A

Call Central Farm Supply of KY at 1-800-777-5923 for a dealer near you or check our dealer locator at www.centralfarmky.com

COW COUNTRY •

JANUARY 2021

• A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E K E N T U C K Y C AT T L E M E N ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N

i9c2A r e 1 1

E AD

ce Amsin

FEATURE

USDA ANNOUNCES APPOINTMENTS TO THE CATTLEMEN’S BEEF PROMOTION AND RESEARCH BOARD DENVER, Colo. (Dec. 11, 2020)– The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today announced the appointment of 28 members to serve on the Cattlemen’s Beef Promotion and Research Board (CBB). All appointed members will serve three-year terms beginning February 2021 and ending February 2024, with the exception of one Importer Unit appointee who will serve a one-year term.

• Leon James, Hurdland, Missouri • Katie Sue Cooper, Willow Creek, Montana

• Mark Brent Sustaire, Winnsboro, Texas

information can also be found on the board’s website, www.beefboard.org.

• Michael White, Vernon, Texas

Since 1966, Congress has authorized industry-funded research and promotion boards to provide a framework for agricultural industries to pool resources and combine efforts to develop new markets, strengthen existing markets and conduct important research and promotion activities. AMS provides oversight to 21 boards. The oversight ensures fiscal accountability and program integrity and is paid for by industry assessments.

• Turk Stovall, Billings, Montana

• Steve Springer, Linden, Wisconsin

• Gina M. Hudson, Belvidere, Nebraska

• Melissa Daniels, Nicasio, California, Southwest Unit

• Steve Wolfe, Kearney, Nebraska

• Jeffrey Isenmann, Rochester, Michigan, Importer Unit

• Bill Baldwin, Mitchell, Nebraska

Newly appointed members are:

• Raymond Erbele, Streeter, North Dakota

• Caleb Plyler, Hope, Arkansas

• Cheryl DeVuyst, Morrison, Oklahoma

• Sallie Miller, Briggsdale, Colorado

•

• Sarah K. Childs, Lake Placid, Florida

• Daniel M. Kniffen, Spring Mills, Pennsylvania

• Stephen Sothmann, Washington, D.C., Importer Unit (one-year term)

• Bill Slovek, Philip, South Dakota

More information about the board and list of board members is available on the Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) Cattlemen’s Beef Board web page. More

• Tucker Shaw, Caldwell, Idaho • Philip L. Perry, Oskaloosa, Kansas • Trista Brown Priest, Satanta, Kansas • Andy Bishop, Cox’s Creek, Kentucky

• Kimberly A. D’Anella, Wenonah, New Jersey, Importer Unit • Rob Williams, Chevy Maryland, Importer Unit

Jimmy Taylor, Cheyenne, Oklahoma

• April Bonds, Fort Worth, Texas • J. Ryan Moorhouse, Amarillo, Texas

Chase,

To learn more about the Beef Checkoff and its programs, including promotion, research, foreign marketing, industry information, consumer information and safety, visit DrivingDemandForBeef. com.

As a full service agriculture business raising our family alongside yours, we know the value of making sure your operation will be successful today, tomorrow, and in the years to come.

•

FEED

•

CHEMICALS

•

SEED

•

FARM SUPPLIES

•

FERTILIZER

•

ANIMAL HEALTH

606-798-FARM 214 Lions Club Rd. Tollesboro, KY 41189 www.ripsfarmcenter.com

COW COUNTRY •

JANUARY 2021

• A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E K E N T U C K Y C AT T L E M E N ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N

NEED A GOOD ANGUS BULL?

Bridgeview Angus Bulls For Sale 60 REGISTERED ANGUS BULLS:

18 MONTHS OLD, BSE CHECKED • LOW BIRTH WEIGHT HEIFER ACCEPTABLE WITH EXPLOSIVE GROWTH

HERE IS A SAMPLE OF BRIDGE VIEW ANGUS BULLS OFFERED IN THIS SALE: TATOO

CED

903 905 926 919

14 16 13 5 5 15 12 11 9 8 15 10

935 912 930 923

909 918

948 924

BW -.4 -1.3 -.5 +2.2 +1.5 -.3 +.6 +.2 +2.3 +2.4 -.6 +.6

WW 73 67 73 78 86 75 68 68 97 98 65 78

YW 129 114 125 139 151 135 116 121 162 176 112 127

AI SIRED GROWTH FUND JET BLACK PLAYBOOK JET BLACK TREASURE FULL MEASURE PAYWEIGHT PLUS GROWTH FUND JET BLACK BLACK ONYX BLUE SKY ENGAGE

All bulls subject to first 90 day breeding season guarantee! BRIDGE VIEW ANGUS 570 Snavely Road Stamping Ground, KY FOR INFO CALL OR TEXT - CORY: 859-338-5826, KIP: 859-608-7798,

KYLE: 502-330-8914, ROGER: 859-333-2707

COW COUNTRY •

JANUARY 2021

Place to Purchase Your Angus Bulls! MARK YOUR CALENDAR

• A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E K E N T U C K Y C AT T L E M E N ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N

Financing Your Life in the Bluegrass!

Loans for land, cattle and homes in the country! AgCreditOnline.com

Serving 17 counties in Central Kentucky since 1934! NMLS#604727

COW COUNTRY •

JANUARY 2021

• A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E K E N T U C K Y C AT T L E M E N ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N

COW COUNTRY •

JANUARY 2021

• A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E K E N T U C K Y C AT T L E M E N ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N

FEATURE

PREPARING YOUR COWS FOR A SUCCESSFUL BREEDING SEASON Dr. Les Anderson, University of Kentucky A successful breeding season begins with management decisions made prior to calving. As we move into the winter-feeding period for spring-calving cows, cattlemen need to review their management plan to ensure optimal rebreeding and success. Rebreeding efficiency can be optimized by focusing on body condition score (BCS), early assistance during calving difficulty, scheduling a breeding soundness exam for the herd sires, planning their herd reproductive health program, and developing a plan to regulate estrus in their first-calf heifers and late-calving cows. Reproductive management begins with evaluation and management of BCS. Body condition score is a numerical estimation of the amount of fat on the cow’s body. Body condition score ranges from 1-9; 1 is emaciated while 9

is extremely obese. A change in a single BCS (i.e. 4-5) is usually associated with about a 75- pound change in body weight. Evaluation of BCS prior to calving and from calving to breeding is important to ensure reproductive success. Rebreeding performance of cows is greatly influenced by BCS at calving. Cows that are thin (BCS < 5) at calving take longer to resume estrous cycles and therefore are delayed in their ability to rebreed. Research has clearly demonstrated that as precalving BCS decreases, the number of days from one calving to the next (calving interval) increases in beef cows. Females with a precalving BCS of less than 5 tend to have production cycles greater than 1 year. For example, cows with a precalving BCS of 3 would be expected to have a calving interval of approximately 400 days, while a cow with a precalving BCS of 6 would have

a calving interval of approximately 360 days. South Dakota research illustrates the influence of precalving BCS on the percentage of cows that initiated estrous cycles after calving. This experiment demonstrated that the percentage of thin cows that were cycling in the first month of the breeding season (June) was considerably lower than for cows that were in more moderate body condition. During the second month of the breeding season, 55% of the cows with a BCS of 4 had still not initiated estrous cycles, while more than 90% of the cows in more moderate condition had begun to cycle. Thin cows need a longer breeding season, which results in more open cows in the fall. They may also result in lighter calves to sell the next year because the calves from these thin cows will be born later in the calving season. Management

BCS

after

calving

also impacts rebreeding efficiency. Maintenance requirements for energy and protein increase 25-30% for most beef cows after calving. Producers need to plan their supplementation to match or exceed this increased nutrient requirement. Rebreeding efficiency is enhanced in cows that calved thin if their energy intake is increased (Rutter and Randle, 1984). Although the best management plan is to calve cows in a BCS of 5+, increasing the energy to cows that are thin at calving can boost reproductive performance. Dystocia (calving problems) can severely delay the onset of estrus after calving. Research shows that for every hour a female is in stage 2 active labor there is a four-day delay in the resumption of estrous cycles after calving. Early intervention helps; 16% more cows conceived when cows were assisted

TRANSFORM YOUR PROPERTY INTO A LAND OF OPPORTUNITY SPECIAL DISCOUNT AVAILABLE TO KENTUCKY CATTLEMAN ASSOCIATION MEMBERS! ROTARY CUTTERS FROM 4’-20’ Recently re-designed Hay Tedders with tough quality build to provide better overall performance in the field.

Flex-Wing Rotary Cutters perfect for maintaining a rolling pasture or orchard, or clearing heavy crops.

HAY TOOLS LANDSCAPE, TILLAGE, LAND MAINTENANCE & MATERIAL HANDLING EQUIPMENT AND SO MUCH MORE!

800.363.9069

COW COUNTRY •

BUSHHOG.COM

JANUARY 2021

• A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E K E N T U C K Y C AT T L E M E N ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N

within 90 minutes of the start of calving. The best method is to reduce the incidence of dystocia via selection, but early calving assistance will increase the opportunity of cows to rebreed. One overlooked management tool that can improve reproductive performance is breeding soundness exams in bulls. Think of breeding soundness exams as breeding season insurance. These exams are a low-cost method of insuring that your bull is capable of breeding. Examine bulls for breeding soundness about 30 days before they are turned out. I have worked in reproductive management for over 25 years and it amazes me how many cattlemen still do not vaccinate their cow herd against reproductive diseases. Several diseases are associated with reproductive loss (lepto, BVD, vibrio, trich, etc). The main problem is that most reproductive loss due to disease is subtle and producers don’t notice the loss unless they have a massive failure. Most cattlemen are not aware of their losses due to abortion until the cow(s) simply fails to calve. Work with your local veterinarian to develop an annual vaccination plan to enhance reproductive success. Lastly, develop a plan to enhance the rebreeding potential of their first-calf heifers and late-calving cows. Young cows and late-calving cows have one characteristic in common that will greatly impact their reproductive success; anestrus. After each calving, cows undergo a period of time when they do not come into estrus. This anestrus period can be as short as 17 days but can also last as long as 150 days depending upon a number of factors. Typically, mature cows in good BCS will be anestrus for 45-90 days (avg about 60 days) while first-calf heifers will be in anestrus for 75-120 days. Research has shown that

only 64% of mature cows have initiated estrous cycles about 70 day after calving while on 50% of first calf heifers have initiated estrous cycles at nearly 90 day after calving. Let’s consider the impact of anestrus and calving date for a herd that calves from March 1 until May 10. Bull turnout is May 20 and the length of anestrus for mature cows is 60 days and for young cows is 90 days. A mature cow that calves on March 1 will begin to cycle on May 1 and is highly likely to conceive early. However, the mature cow that calves on April 20 won’t cycle until June 20 and her opportunity to conceive early is very limited. A first-calf heifer that calves on April 20 won’t begin to cycle until July 20 and will have limited opportunities to conceive. Cattlemen can reduce the anestrous period by fenceline exposure to a mature bull or by treating the cows with progesterone for 7 days prior to bull

IT’S JUST THAT GOOD. Time tested. Proven performance. r

e ow w L e! e N Pric

exposure. Sources of progesterone include the feed additive melengestrol acetate (MGA) or an EAZI-Breed CIDR insert (Zoetis Animal Health). Both sources induce estrus in anestrous cows and exposure of anestrous cows to progesterone for 7 days before bull exposure will not reduce fertility. Pregnancy rates increase in these females because inducing estrus will increase the number of opportunities these cows have to conceive in the breeding season.

Over the past two decades, Persist orchardgrass has set the standard for high yielding, long-lasting forage. Persist has fed more cattle, packed more hay barns, and made more meat and milk. Persist has withstood severe droughts, survived frigid ice storms and outlasted intensive grazing. Persist has produced countless tons of toxic-free forage and has been a reliable alternative to harmful KY-31 tall fescue. If you want high yielding, longlasting stands, spend your seed money wisely. Plant Persist.

Managing for reproductive success begins at calving. Cows need to calve with a minimum BCS of 5 and with little assistance. Implement an effective vaccination program and create a plan to minimize the length of the anestrous period in cows that are likely to be problem breeders. Planning now will help increase the probability of a successful breeding season.

Available through the dealer network of

CENTRAL FARM SUPPLY 800-777-5923 Visit persistorchardgrass.com to learn more.

COW COUNTRY •

JANUARY 2021

• A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E K E N T U C K Y C AT T L E M E N ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N

FEATURE

WHY SHOULD CROSSBREEDING BE IMPLEMENTED IN YOUR HERD? Lucas Palcheff , University of Kentucky CROSSBREEDING is the hybridization of two or more breeds. Simply put, crossbreeding is a breeding system that will yield economic benefits by increasing

the performance and productivity of your cattle. In today’s market there is less and less

genetic diversity present in beef cattle. Crossbreeding is one method to increase this diversity in your herd. By increasing this genetic variance, you will greatly

affect traits that are lowly heritable; traits that you are unable to select for. Some examples of these lowly heritable traits are reproduction, longevity, and

ALL PURPOSE MORE PROFIT

The American Simmental Association’s $All Purpose Index ($API) predicts cow herd profitability while keeping pressure on terminal traits. And data from the last two decades show it’s working. Better genetics translate to increased profits for bulls used to sire replacement heifers and harvest remaining calves. Build a herd that works as hard as you do.

STAND STRONG

SIMMENTAL 406-587-4531 • simmental.org

COW COUNTRY •

JANUARY 2021

• A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E K E N T U C K Y C AT T L E M E N ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N

improved calf health. So why should you, as a commercial beef cattle producer, be interested in implementing crossbreeding into your breeding program? To begin, crossbreeding will always increase the level of performance in your herd, and it will yield a positive economic impact. Crossbreeding accomplishes these two things via heterosis and breed complementarity. According to C.A. McPeake, a beef cattle breeding specialist, crossbreeding can result in increased production levels in two ways. The first is by combining the varying strengths of two or more breeds, wherein you will achieve breed complementarity. Breed complementarity is a way to use one breeds strengths to negate another breeds weakness. Through the utilization of breed complementarity, you will receive an increased level of desired traits in the crossbred animal and thus, an increased level of performance. The second is by heterosis. Heterosis is the advantage a crossbred offspring has over the average of the breeds represented in the cross. In one study completed by A. Theunissen and others, the results showed that crossbred dams lost fewer

COW COUNTRY •

JANUARY 2021

calves between pregnancy testing and parturition, had a greater pregnancy rate, and had a greater weaning percentage when compared to their straightbred contemporaries. This study is just one example of how heterosis can work to improve a herd of cattle’s performance. One thing about heterosis that is worth noting is that for it to be possible, there must be genetic diversity within the breeds you are crossing. The reason for this is because through crossbreeding, you are attempting to increase either the heterozygosity of undesirable alleles, or the dominant homozygosity of desirable alleles in your offspring. For instance, if you have one breed that is homozygous recessive for a whole slew of unfavorable alleles that all contribute to a lowly heritable trait, what do you do? You cross that breed to a more genetically diverse breed, and it will yield heterozygosity in the alleles that contribute to the trait. By crossbreeding you will thus improve your herds performance. Hence, implementing an accurate crossbreeding plan will improve the effect heterosis has on your offspring. To determine what crossbreeding plan is right for your herd, you will need

to analyze the resources available, the amount of management you will put in, and what your marketing target is. By implementing a crossbreeding program, you will be sure to see economic gains through the productivity of your herd. If you take one thing away from this article, it should be this. Commercial cattlemen should take advantage of crossbreeding to improve their productivity and profitability. Good luck! Lucas Palcheff is an undergraduate senior at the University of Kentucky. He is originally from Jerseyville, Illinois, a small town near the Mississippi river. Lucas is studying Animal Sciences under the animal industry specialty and has additional course work in wildlife biology and management. Lucas is heavily involved in the international fraternity of Phi Gamma Delta and DanceBlue, the University of Kentucky Dance Marathon. After graduation Lucas plans on entering the beef cattle industry to gain knowledge and experience in hopes of later attending graduate school and specializing.

• A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E K E N T U C K Y C AT T L E M E N ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N

FEATURE

END-OF-YEAR TAX PLANNING FOR FARMERS AND RANCHERS Dan Childs, Senior Agricultural Economics Consultant, Noble Foundation Good income and expense records provide decision-makers with a tremendous amount of information. This information can be useful in several ways, including: 1. To compare actual to budget. 2. To compare current year to last year or to the average of the last three. 3. To calculate net income to date. Once net income to date is known, then it can be combined with a projection of income and expenses for the remainder of the year to arrive at an estimate of taxable income for the year. Why Is It Important to Estimate Taxable Income? Each citizen of this country has the obligation to pay their fair share to the government — but no more. An estimate of taxable income before the end of the year provides a taxpayer with the knowledge to manage their taxable income and thereby only pay for their fair share of government.

to increase income? It would typically be when deductions are greater than W-2 income, business income and the standard deduction. If this is the case, the additional income generated is basically tax free. Most would agree that is a good deal! Many taxpayers have no idea what their tax bill or refund will be until their tax preparer notifies them of the results. If a tax bill is due, it could cause cash flow issues or the untimely need to market products in order to generate enough revenue to pay for the tax obligation. The many ways to increase income include: • Sell more products (calves, grain, etc.). • Use a slower rate of depreciation for

any assets purchased during the year. • Be judicious in choosing to use Section 179 or bonus depreciation. • Capitalize instead of deduct the purchase of small tools and major repairs. • Postpone purchases planned for the end of year, and pre-pay expenses that will not be used until next year. Another excellent option to increase income is to convert a portion of a traditional IRA (depending on amount of income needed) to a Roth IRA. Some limitations apply, so be sure the conversion is within the guidelines. Managing Expenses If a taxpayer happens to be in the enviable situation where they have more income

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) provides taxpayers with many ways to manage taxable income. However, a taxpayer must have an estimate of taxable income before the end of the year and take action before the end of the year, assuming a taxpayer is a cash-basis calendar-year taxpayer. Otherwise that ability to manage taxable income stops at midnight Dec. 31.

For all assets purchased during the year, choose faster rates of cost recovery, such as making wise use of Section 179 and bonus depreciation. Both of these are powerful choices and great ways to manage taxable income if asset purchases are made during the year. Also, consider delaying the sale of calves, grain and other farm products until after the first of the year. Paying for some expenses that will not be used until next year can also be done if the prepayment meets the necessary guidelines. The key to being able to manage one’s taxable income is to know what the income and expenses are a couple of months before the end of the year, then determining what the projected income and expenses might be for the remainder of the year. This knowledge will allow a taxpayer to have the information needed to make prudent tax management decisions. Implications of Stimulus Program

Coronavirus

One last item to be aware of that is unique to this year but may have lingering consequences into next year is related to the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Stimulus Act (CARES). If a taxpayer is the recipient of a CARES stimulus program, such as the Payroll Protection Program (PPP) and/or Coronavirus Food Assistance Program (CFAP), this may complicate making the estimate. The reason is that the possibility exists that a portion or all of the PPP funds received as a loan will be forgiven and may not count as income.

Many taxpayers have no idea what their tax bill or refund will be until their tax preparer notifies them of the results. If a tax bill is due, it could cause cash flow issues or the untimely need to market products in order to generate enough revenue to pay for the tax obligation. Both of these issues might be alleviated with previous knowledge of an estimate of the tax owed.

In addition, the expenses paid by the PPP funds may not be deductible as a business expense, such as pasture or crop rent and utilities. However, CFAP funds will likely be taxed as other government payments in the past, so do not forget to include these funds as income.

Managing Taxable Income One sometimes misunderstood way to manage taxable income is to increase income. When would a taxpayer want 52

than expenses, the IRS also provides many ways to increase expenses. And is it not this situation where many justify the purchase of a new pickup or other business assets? Yes, indeed, purchasing assets and choosing to expense a portion or all of the purchase price is a valid way to increase expenses. However, be cautious in doing this. Be sure the purchase is a good business decision and not just a means to reduce the tax obligation.

COW COUNTRY •

JANUARY 2021

• A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E K E N T U C K Y C AT T L E M E N ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N

DON’T LET INFECTIOUS DISEASES WEAKEN YOUR CATTLE’S REPRODUCTIVE EFFICIENCY.

STAYBRED VL5 ®

Infectious viral reproductive diseases can result in abortions, embryonic death, stillbirths, weak calves and reduced pregnancy rates in beef cattle. These can add up to significant economic losses. Bacterial diseases caused by Leptospira spp. and Campylobacter fetus (Vibrio) can dramatically reduce a herd’s calving rate due to pregnancy loss and reproductive inefficiency.

ANY COW. ANY CALF. ANY TIME.

To help guard cattle from the most common reproductive viral pathogens, CATTLEMASTER GOLD FP® 5 combines: • Inactivated BVD virus Types 1 and 2 that helps provide Fetal Protection against BVD persistent infections • Demonstrated safe and proprietary temperature-sensitive IBR (tsIBR) virus to help provide Fetal Protection against IBR abortions

PROVIDE DEMONSTRATED SAFETY AND EFFICACY.

CATTLEMASTER GOLD FP® 5 can be administered to cows and heifers with unknown vaccination histories.

FETAL PROTECTION GUARANTEED.

Choose a vaccine that helps provide an unmatched combination of safety and Fetal Protection. CATTLEMASTER GOLD® FP 5 is the only inactivated BVD vaccine to offer Fetal Protection against IBR abortion and BVD Types 1 and 2 persistent infections, something ViraShield® and Triangle® do not provide. It not only gives you peace of mind, it also pays off with healthier, profitable calves on sale day. When used according to label directions, Zoetis CATTLEMASTER GOLD® FP line of vaccines are back with a Fetal Protection Guarantee: Fetal Protection

• 100% of calves are born free from BVD persistent infections • Cows and fetuses are protected against IBR abortion

CATTLEMASTER ® Vira Shield ® GOLD

Triangle ®

BVD Type 1 persistent infection (PI)

BVD Type 2 persistent infection (PI)

IBR abortion

Learn how CATTLEMASTER GOLD FP 5 and Staybred® VL5 can help protect your reproductive investment. Contact your veterinarian or your Zoetis representative. Visit zoetisUS.com or call 888-ZOETIS1 (888-963-8471). *The Zoetis 100% BVD PI-Free Guarantee and the IBR Abortion Guarantee is administered through Zoetis Veterinary Medical Information and Product Support (VMIPS) at 800-366-5288. Proof of purchase is required. Calves born to BVD PI-positive cows or heifers do not qualify for the guarantee. This guarantee does not apply to, and Zoetis shall not be liable for, any (x) damages caused as a result of the improper handling, misuse or abuse of the vaccines that are the subject of this guarantee, or the willful misconduct or negligence of any third party, or (y) indirect, punitive, special, incidental or consequential damages. Zoetis reserves the right to modify or cancel the terms and conditions of this guarantee. All trademarks are the property of Zoetis Inc., its affiliates and/or its licensors. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. ©2016 Zoetis Inc. All rights reserved. CMR-00034

COW COUNTRY •

JANUARY 2021

• A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E K E N T U C K Y C AT T L E M E N ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N

Thanks for your business and patience in 2020

50' Wide!

FEATURE

KHB since 1999

40x60

32x96

End & Side Clos

ers Addl.

DOUBLE

HEAVY DOUBLE ARCH TRUSS BUILDING

ORE ...AND MUCH M

THE SAVINGS

Since 20

499 1 . 9 9 6 . 0 27 ngly l Matti

Cow Country Special! 32’ x 96” Barn

u Y Joe aPllyaRay Pike, Rayw.cicko,mK

32'x96' BARN You Build - $7,250

gmail 830 S ttingly@ joepma

BUILD: We Build -WE $11,995* $ *

10,995

*Does not include concrete or metal sides

Other sizes and prices available! *Does not include concrete or metal sides

CALL FOR A QUOTE! YOU’LL BE GLAD YOU DID! 54

.com

pBarns o o H y k c ntu

RIENDLY FAST & F ERVICE S SALES & OM PRICES” BOTT ’ve “ROCK ame You t! N e h • T KHB w & Trus o n K o T Grown

COW COUNTRY •

VIRTUAL WINTER WHEAT MEETING JAN. 5, 8 Katie Pratt, University of Kentucky PRINCETON, KY,- The University of Kentucky Wheat Science Group will host its Winter Wheat Meeting virtually over two days in January on the videoconferencing platform Zoom. The meeting will run from 8:30 a.m. until 10:30 a.m. CST on Jan. 5 and again on Jan. 8. UK College of Agriculture, Food and Environment specialists will cover several topics of interest to those involved with the wheat industry. Jan. 5 topics include crop condition, economics, soil compaction and yield potential. Stuart Foster, Western Kentucky University professor and state climatologist, will provide an overview of the state’s climate over the past 125 years. Jan. 8 topics include crop condition, variety differences in metribuzin tolerance, management strategies to reduce insect populations in stored wheat, annual ryegrass control and integrated management of head scab. “Head scab is one of the most damaging diseases of wheat in Kentucky and the

JANUARY 2021

• A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E K E N T U C K Y C AT T L E M E N ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N

Spring Sale

For all your marketing needs,

GIVE US A CALL. SALE MANAGEMENT

February 20, 2021

PHOTOGRAPHY VIDEOGRAPHY

11 a.m. at the farm in Ridge Spring, SC

RING SERVICE!

SELLING 225 BULLS & 100 FEMALES Forage-Developed Angus Cattle

Select Offering of SimAngus & Ultrablack Cattle

(502) 667-0142

jacksonmarketingsolutions.com

surrounding region,” said Carl Bradley, UK extension plant pathologist. “The best control of scab comes when producers integrate multiple management practices. I will present results from trials conducted locally in Kentucky, as well as results from multi-state trials.” Pesticide applicators can receive one specific continuing education hours in categories 1A, 10 and 12 for the first day of the meeting and two specific hours in the same categories on the second day. Certified Crop Advisers can receive 1.5 continuing education units in crop management for the first day and two credits in pest management on the second day. Participants can access day one of the meeting at https://uky.zoom. us/j/86253972713 and day two at https://uky.zoom.us/j/85093871632. Both links are also accessible from the UK Wheat Science Group website at http://wheatscience.ca.uky.edu/.

COW COUNTRY •

JANUARY 2021

Kevin & Lydia Yon lydia@yonfamilyfarms.com 803-685-5048

www.yonfamilyfarms.com

• A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E K E N T U C K Y C AT T L E M E N ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N

Free bull delivery with $5,000 total bull purchases

PRIVATE TREATY SALES CHECKOFF INVESTMENT FORM State and National Beef Promotion and Research Programs Information is required by 7 CRF 1260.201. Failure to report can result in a fine. Information is held confidential per 7 CRF 1260.203.

TODAY’S DATE

ID NUMBER (IF KNOWN)

SELLER’S NAME

BUYER’S NAME

ADDRESS

CITY

STATE

ZIP

CITY

SELLER’S SIGNATURE

STATE

ZIP

BUYER’S SIGNATURE

Both the seller and the buyer are responsible for making sure that the $1 per head assessment is collected and remitted to the Kentucky Beef Council. DATE OF SALE

STATE OF ORIGIN*

TOTAL NUMBER OF CATTLE SOLD

$1.OO per Head Federal Checkoff

$1.OO per Head State Checkoff

PERSON REMITTING FORM

+ =

Total Checkoff Payment for Federal and State

BUYER

SELLER

PHONE

*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: Kentucky Beef Council 176 Pasadena Drive Lexington, KY 40503 For additional information: call 859-278-0899 or email beef@kycattle.org 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 hour 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, age, disability, and where applicable, sex, marital status, familial status, parental status, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, political beliefs, reprisal, or because all or part of an individual’s income is derived from any public assistance program. (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 to USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Avenue, S.W., Washington, D.C. 20250-9410 or call (800) 795-3272 (voice) or (202) 720-6382 (TDD). USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

COW COUNTRY •

JANUARY 2021

• A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E K E N T U C K Y C AT T L E M E N ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N

PROUDLY SUPPORTING

cattle producers with customized livestock marketing solutions, risk management and credit services. Contact a local UPI market for details of how we can help you! MARKET

AUCTION

FACILITY MANAGER & NUMBER

Bowling Green, Ky.

Tuesday at 1 p.m. CST

Patrick Durham • (614) 515-0031

Irvington, Ky.

Monday at 9 a.m. EST

John Gibson • (812) 968-4097

Owenton, Ky.

Wednesday at 9:30 a.m. EST

Robert Green • (502) 321-6012

Little York, Ind.

Tuesday at 10 a.m. EST

Ryan Batt • (812) 620-0769

Facebook “f ” Logo

CMYK / .ai

Facebook “f ” Logo

CMYK / .ai

www.uproducers.com • • COW COUNTRY •

JANUARY 2021

• A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E K E N T U C K Y C AT T L E M E N ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N

FEATURE

FARMER-RESEARCHER PARTNERSHIPS ARE BACKBONE OF AGRICULTURAL ADVANCES Katie Pratt , University of Kentucky LEXINGTON, Ky., (Dec. 15, 2020) – Agriculture is advancing in fields across Kentucky thanks to farmers willing to take the time and share their land for research.

“Producers are trying to improve our land, but we can’t do so without real science,” Preston said. “This is especially true with cover crops, because so much of the existing information about them doesn’t apply to every farm. That’s why on-farm research is so important.”

Scientists in the University of Kentucky College of Agriculture, Food and Environment engage with an extensive network of producers in all disciplines. The partnerships do not form overnight but over the course of numerous meetings, developing personal relationships and building mutual trust and respect. “I am so proud of our researchers, who make the time and effort to go and listen to producers and see firsthand what their problems and questions are,” said Robert Houtz, associate dean for research and director of the Kentucky Agricultural Experiment Station. “Then together, they execute the experimentation and analyses that lead to useful and valuable solutions that increase the competitiveness of our state agricultural industry and demonstrate our commitment to the land-grant mission.” LONGTIME PARTNERS Hardin County grain farmer Richard Preston is a longtime UK research partner and has hosted numerous onfarm research trials over the years. “Research doesn’t do any good in an ivory tower,” Preston said. “You have to put it on farms to see if the lab and smallplot results hold true.” Knowing Preston’s interest in optimizing his cover crops, two of his UK research partners, Josh McGrath and Chad Lee, connected him with soil scientist Hanna Poffenbarger shortly after she joined the UK faculty. After a few conversations, Preston and Poffenbarger, along with UK graduate student Sam Leuthold, began an experiment to study the effects on corn yield that cover crops have when planted at various locations on Preston’s rolling farm. Their study used rye and a mixture of rye and crimson clover. It was funded

FINDING ANSWERS AND CREATING BETTER STEWARDS Powell County goat producer Ben Burgher will be the first to admit agriculture is a new endeavor for him. “I’m not a full-time farmer or the son of a farmer, but I inherited a farm and want to take care of it,” said Burgher, who is retired from Nestle.

Richard Preston and Hanna Poffenbarger go over data from field trials in pre-pandemic times. by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Southern Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education, Kentucky Corn Growers Association, the college and environmental fellowships. “On-farm studies are important to my overall research program, because the practical perspective of our farmercooperators keeps our research relevant. Richard’s experience with cover crops helped form this study,” Poffenbarger said. “On-farm studies also help scientists see soil processes occurring in working crop fields, which helps expand our understanding of the production system.” LEARNING OPPORTUNITY Preston is happy to not only host scientists’ projects but those of their graduate students. “Students are the future of agriculture,” Preston said. “By letting them conduct research on our farms, we are helping develop future researchers and agronomists.” For Leuthold, the project was a great

COW COUNTRY •

opportunity to get hands-on experience for his master’s thesis. It also helped connect with a farmer on a personal level and understand his goals and constraints. “Knowing the roles that time and economics play into producers’ management decisions gives us a better understanding of what farmers want to do versus what they can actually do. That helps us make our research relevant,” Leuthold said. Leuthold hopes to use this experience, as he works toward a career bridging gaps between science and policy to make sustainable agriculture more accessible for more producers. “The farmer interactions, stakeholder engagements and research this project provided me are things that I’m sure I will use again,” Leuthold said. Through this study, the researchers saw higher cover crop growth and corn yields on low lying areas of the field. They also found cover crops increased soil moisture. Preston plans to do a variablerate cover crop planting based on the results of this project.

JANUARY 2021

After hosting a countywide extension field day on his property, Burgher became connected with Jimmy Henning, UK forage extension specialist. For the past few years, they have worked on a research project designed to improve his hayfield, which had a lot of broomsedge. Broomsedge is an undesirable forage that can suggest the presence of a larger soil fertility issue. A soil test revealed the field was very low in potassium. “I wanted to learn what would happen if we adequately fertilized the field with potassium,” Henning said. “Potassium deficiencies are becoming much more of a problem in forages. Potassium is removed in large quantities along with other nutrients in the hay at harvest, but oftentimes, producers only reapply nitrogen to the soil.” Within a year of adding the correct amount of potassium to the soil, Burgher doubled the amount of hay he harvested from the plot. “Jimmy was really great as far as explaining what he wanted to do and why,” Burgher said. “I plan to continue using the fertilizer combination he gave me from the study and also soil test to make sure the nutrients are needed.” Henning has used results from the study CONTINUED ON PAGE 60

• A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E K E N T U C K Y C AT T L E M E N ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N

WANTS LESS PARASITES.

DECTOMAX® AND VALBAZEN®, TWO THINGS YOUR ENTIRE OPERATION WILL AGREE ON. Protect your profits with DECTOMAX® Injectable or Pour-On, and give your herd unparalleled broad-spectrum parasite control. In fact, stocker trials have shown that cattle treated with DECTOMAX outperformed those treated with injectable ivermectin or ivermectin with clorsulon by up to 26 pounds.1

VALBAZEN® oral drench dewormer protects your profits and your herd, controlling 25 different parasites and larval stages. VALBAZEN is the only drench dewormer that controls Cooperia spp., Ostertagia ostertagi and liver flukes.

LEARN MORE AT GetLessParasites.com

DECTOMAX Injectable has a 35-day pre-slaughter withdrawal period. DECTOMAX Pour-On has a 45-day pre-slaughter withdrawal period. Do not use in female dairy cattle 20 months of age or older. Do not use in calves to be processed for veal. DECTOMAX has been developed specifically for cattle and swine. Use in dogs may result in fatalities. Cattle must not be slaughtered within 27 days after the last treatment with VALBAZEN. Do not use in female dairy cattle of breeding age. Do not administer to female cattle during the first 45 days of pregnancy or for 45 days after removal of bulls.

DATA ON FILE, STUDY REPORTS NO. 2239A-60-00-029, 2239A-60-00-030, 2239A-60-00-033, 2239A-60-94-003, 2239A-60-94-007, 2239A-60-94-067, 2239A-60-94-068, 2239A-60-94-070, 2239A-60-95-156 AND 2839A-60-97-123, ZOETIS INC. ALL TRADEMARKS ARE THE PROPERTY OF ZOETIS SERVICES LLC OR A RELATED COMPANY OR A LICENSOR UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED. © 2018 ZOETIS SERVICES LLC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. DMX-00090

COW COUNTRY •

JANUARY 2021

• A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E K E N T U C K Y C AT T L E M E N ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 58 to develop several popular press and grazing articles. He also plans to do a journal article. “On-farm research is the most credible work we do,” Henning said. “Farmers see other farmers getting positive results, and they are far more likely to act than if they hear about something that happened on the experiment station.” EXTENSION CONNECTORS Many times, extension agents make connections between farmers and researchers. This was the case in Boyle County when horticulture extension agent Alexis Sheffield connected tomato growers Carly and Spencer Guinn to Rachel Rudolph, UK extension vegetable specialist. Rudolph was in search of a tomato grower with a high tunnel who might be interested in branching out into cut flowers for a research project. Her research was evaluating the rotation of tomatoes with cut flowers in a high tunnel. “On-farm research studies are critical for me to give growers practical information to improve their operations,” Rudolph said. “I do not want to create something that a grower cannot replicate. This study looked at whether growers could be successful growing both crops in the same year.” The study was intriguing to the Guinns, who produce livestock, row crops, specialty grains, fruits and vegetables. “We had grown tomatoes in the high tunnel for the past four years,” said Carly Guinn. “I had never grown flowers, but it was something I had always wanted to do.” Not only did Sheffield connect the Guinns with Rudolph, but with her advanced knowledge in cut flower production, she contributed by providing valuable expertise on flower selection. “I suggested flowers that were quick flowering, so the growers would have time to harvest the tomatoes and the flowers would have time to bloom before the first frost,” Sheffield said. As is the case with many on-farm research projects, agents like Sheffield help growers regularly scout for issues. “It is an ideal situation for agents to be involved in research projects, because we

are right down the road from the growers,” Sheffield said. “We help relay information between growers and scientists on campus without the researchers having to make multiple trips to research sites that can be quite a distance away.” Knowing that Sheffield was nearby made it easier for the Guinns to commit to the project, where they had to alter their regular planting dates so they could harvest the tomatoes earlier. “We trusted her knowledge and knew she was going to be there to help us,” said Carly Guinn.

Spread a little seed.

Get a LOT of feed.

The project had some unforeseen benefits to the producers. Being connected to the researchers through the study was one way for the Guinns to gain more knowledge that will help them in their operation.

Springtime is the perfect time to improve your pastures and hay elds.

“Knowing Rachel had advanced knowledge in tomato production, we racked her brain and tried to gain as much knowledge as we could,” Carly Guinn said. “This year, we had a lack of airflow in the high tunnel, and she helped us figure it out.”

Make more hay and graze longer with this mega-yielding, early-maturing, Midwest-bred timothy. Mix KY-Early with alfalfa and make mounds of hay, or graze it and pile on the pounds.

KY-Early Improved Timothy

Renovation White Clover

While the project required the producers to have good recordkeeping skills, the Guinns were used to that, because they keep records for their GAP certification. They learned things in this study that will help them long after the research has ended.

By adding only 1-2 lbs of this superstoloniferous clover, you’ll boost protein, capture nitrogen, and build the soil. Renovation is also a proven weight builder, even in toxic fescues pastures. Great for building wildlife food plots and pollinator habitats.

“Through this research project, we have a record of the bugs that were in the high tunnel and when and what their application thresholds were,” Spencer Guinn said. “This will help us make more informed application decisions in the future.” The Guinns were able to harvest both crops, but they faced marketing challenges with their cut flowers. These challenges, exacerbated by COVID-19, made it difficult for them to break into a new market. Rudolph remains optimistic about the project and plans to pursue it further. She and Sheffield have created how-to videos they plan to share with producers who are interested in growing the two crops. On-farm research helps scientists and producers gain new knowledge that improves and advances agriculture. These valuable relationships between Kentucky farmers and UK researchers work toward the goal of more efficient and profitable Kentucky farms.

COW COUNTRY •

PayDay Perennial Ryegrass

Bring more proot to your pocket with this winter hardy, rust resistant, sweet tasting, later maturing tetraploid ryegrass. PayDay’s enhanced winter hardiness extends stand life and saves you money by reducing replantings.

Available through the dealer network of Central Farm Supply of Kentucky 800-777-5923

kyearlytimothy.com

JANUARY 2021

renovationclover.com

paydayryegrass.com

• A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E K E N T U C K Y C AT T L E M E N ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N

it’s called

maternal excellence.

A Beefmaster cow and her crossbred calf

Beefmaster Heifers Excel in Efficiency Beefmaster Angus Weaning weight

557

500

Residual Feed Intake

-0.41

+0.47

Beefmaster-sired heifers outpaced Angus-sired heifers, posting a superior weaning weight and RFI score of -0.41 on a GrowSafe System.

The best cow in the herd is the one you never notice. Why? Because the best cows simply do their job. They get bred easily, year in and year out. They make raising good calves look easy. And, they possess excellent longevity because they don’t break down in tough environments. Indeed, Beefmaster cows are designed to handle the worst the environment can throw at them — from heat and cold, to desert, prairie and coastal plains. But every year, they raise a high-quality calf and get rebred. Without exception. So if you’re noticing your cows for all the wrong reasons, maybe it’s time to consider Beefmaster.

Beefmaster: Built for Maternal Excellence. 210.732.3132 • beefmasters.org

COW COUNTRY •

JANUARY 2021

• A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E K E N T U C K Y C AT T L E M E N ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N

MEMBERSHIP DIVISION 3 (UP TO 75 MEMBERS)

11,000 GOAL

6,184

DIVISION 1 (151+ MEMBERS)

2021

2020

Difference

DIVISION 2 (76-150 MEMBERS)

2021

2020

Difference

2021

2020

Difference

Purchase Area

-15

Out of State

-8

Whitley

-6

Grant

-22

Pendleton

-21

Taylor

-24

Woodford

-17

Campbell

-38

Oldham

-20

Clinton-Cumberland

-33

Rockcastle

-25

Ohio

-22

Todd

-19

Mason

-24

Hancock

-18

-19

Adair

246

315

-69

Henry

109

148

-39

Wayne

Barren

224

525

-301

Edmonson

-1

Robertson

-26

Simpson

-17

Nicholas

-10

Carroll

-18

Highlands

-13

Lewis

-28

Shelby

218

338

-120

Marion

187

295

-108

Madison

186

272

-86

Breckinridge

160

336

-176

Grayson

150

281

-131

Lincoln

147

239

-92

Franklin

134

-49

Monroe

149

-70

Daviess

135

-56

Twin Lakes

-2

Boyle

-16

Union

-41

-20

Estill

-19

106

-40

Calloway

-9

-30

Bracken

132

179

-47

Louisville Area

Mercer

122

156

-34

Garrard

Christian

117

225

-108

Northeast Area

-23

Montgomery

Warren

115

165

-50

Jackson

-29

Knox

-25

McLean

-7

Nelson

-45

Butler

-15

McCreary

-20

Hopkins

-12

Clay

-17

Hardin

114

187

-73

Trigg

-26

Fleming

-36

Trimble

114

-51

Bourbon

-22

Harrison

109

160

-51

Bath

105

302

-197

Clark

105

224

-119

Washington

105

201

-96

Casey

102

194

-92

Scott

117

-55

Jessamine

203

-104

Mountain

-34

Bullitt

-11

Hart

228

-129

Caldwell/Lyon

-40

Crittenden

-11

Logan

213

-117

Pulaski

132

-77

Livingston

-15

Meade

172

-77

Green

158

-67

Laurel

156

-66

Larue

166

-82

Northern Kentucky

159

-75

2021

Totals as of: November 13, 2020

6,184

2020

10,738

Difference

-4,554

Fayette

-35

Magoffin

Owen

-27

Menifee

-12

Powell

-1

Henderson

-6

River Hills

-3

Eastern Foothills

-2

Gallatin

-5

Pike

Bell

-2

Harlan

Muhlenberg

-33

Metcalfe

142

-95

Anderson

113

-67

Russell

-32

Webster

-45

Allen

146

-120

If you need anything for membership, please contact Nikki Whitaker at (859) 278-0899 or nwhitaker@kycattle.org 62

COW COUNTRY •

JANUARY 2021

• A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E K E N T U C K Y C AT T L E M E N ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N

2020-21 MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION * MEMBERSHIP YEAR 10/1/20– 9/30/21

NAME

SPOUSE NAME

FARM NAME

ADDRESS

CITY

STATE

COUNTY

RECRUITED BY

PHONE

FAX

ZIP

*Payments of KCA membership dues are tax deductible for most members as an ordinary and necessary business expense. However, charitable contributions of gifts to KCA are not tax deductible for Federal Income Tax purposes. Due to new IRS regulations, $2.24 of your dues would not be deductible. Approximately $12 of your dues will go towards the monthly publication Cow Country News. PLEASE CHECK THE MEMBERSHIP(S) YOU WOULD LIKE TO JOIN: KCA MEMBERSHIP ($30/YR) Membership dues are $30 unless otherwise listed below

NEW

RENEWAL

NEW

RENEWAL

KCA COUPLE MEMBERSHIP To add your spouse, please add $15 to your KCA Membership KENTUCKY JUNIOR CATTLEMEN’S ASSOCIATION ($10/YR)

I WOULD LIKE ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ON THE YOUNG PRODUCER’S COUNCIL TOTAL MEMBERSHIP: KCA

KJCA

TOTAL CONTRIBUTIONS: CATTLEMEN’S FOUNDATION DONATION (voluntary)

TOTAL AMOUNT ENCLOSED: ALL DONATIONS TO KCF ARE TAX DEDUCTIBLE

COW COUNTRY •

JANUARY 2021

Allen ................................$40 Anderson ........................$25 Bourbon ..........................$20 Boyle ...............................$35 Bullitt ...............................$20 Butler ..............................$25 Franklin ...........................$25 Highlands .......................$20 (Boyd, Floyd, Johnson, Lawrence, & Martin)

Hopkins ...........................$35 Laurel ..............................$35 Lincoln ............................$25 Louisville Area ................$20 (Jefferson, & Spencer) Magoffin ..........................$20 Menifee ...........................$25

Mountain........................$25 (Breathitt, Knott, Lee, Leslie, Letcher, Morgan, Owsley, Perry & Wolfe) Oldham ...........................$35 Taylor ..............................$20 Twin Lakes ......................$25 Warren ............................$40 Wayne .............................$25 Whitley ............................$25 Woodford ........................$25

IF YOU WOULD ALSO LIKE TO JOIN THE NATIONAL CATTLEMEN’S BEEF ASSOCIATION The NCBA is now a State Marketing Partner with the KCA. You can pay your dues to both organizations with one check, at the same time. # HEAD 1-100

COUNTY DUES Dues are $30 except for the counties listed below.

DUES $150

# HEAD 1,001-1,250

DUES $1,150

101-250

$300

1,251-1,500

$1,400

251-500

$450

1,501-1,750

$1,650

501-750

$650

1,751-2,000

$1,900

751-1000

$650

> 2,000

$1,900 + .38/HD

Complete and return to: Kentucky Cattlemen’s Association 176 Pasadena Drive • Suite 4 • Lexington, KY 40503 For faster service, join online at www.kycattle.org

• A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E K E N T U C K Y C AT T L E M E N ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N

KENTUCKY BEEF COUNCIL KATELYN HAWKINS KBC Director of Product Marketing

New Year, New…. You? Challenges? Opportunities? The start of a new year can be exciting and stressful all in one flip of the calendar page. Some spend months in preparation for the New Year outlining projects and goals while others step into the New Year with a “take it as it comes” approach. Regardless of your method, we can all agree we’re looking forward to 2021 following one of the most challenging, yet insightful, years of our lives. Leading up to the start of each New Year, Kentucky Beef Council plans advertising campaigns, educational resources and events (when public safety allows) placing beef top of mind with consumers as they set into motion their own plans. Health becomes a major focus each January, thus KBC begins to tailor our social and digital advertisements focusing on beef’s

role in a healthy diet. Utilizing resources from the Beef It’s What’s For Dinner brand, we will continue to put a spotlight on beef’s role as a high quality source of protein and iron for all ages (including older infants) and lean beef’s presence in a heart healthy diet. Consumers have an increasing number of questions about where their food comes from and how it was raised/ handled prior to their purchase at retail and foodservice outlets. Arming consumers with facts and myth busting tall tales is a daily pursuit for the Beef Checkoff both nationally and on a local level. Sustainability is a facet of the beef industry that has gotten a lot of attention over the last year and will be the case in 2021. We welcome opportunities to showcase how cattle upcycle grass into a high quality protein and share the

stories of the men, women, and families practicing environmental stewardship to raise cattle. Through campaigns such as Beef Starts Here, we seek to empower you to share your beef stories. Post a photo of your favorite farm activity or answer your neighbor’s question about how cattle are raised. I promise you often times the smallest interactions with consumers can be very impactful with consumers making them more confident with beef. If you would like to receive a Beef Starts Here yard sign we would be more than happy to provide you with one. Material items come and go, but memories and experiences last a lifetime. Based on this, Kentucky Beef Council will be continue to seek opportunities to provide in-depth, educational experiences to consumers, chefs, health influencers, food influencers, etc. to keep beef top of mind. In addition to social media posts and banner ads, Kentucky Beef Council will reach consumers in the digital space through hosting virtual cooking classes. These classes serve as a great resource to encourage

MEDITERRANEAN BEEF PINWHEELS

consumers to use beef in a number of recipe options. KBC will continue to partner with great Kentucky chefs to host the events. Attendees receive the recipe, shopping list, and opportunities to win door prizes throughout the events. We also look forward to new opportunities to bring industry partners, influencers, and beef advocates on Kentucky farms to hear directly from farmers the process, challenges, and rewarding moments of raising beef. If 2020 has taught us anything it is that you have to adjust to the situation you are in and make the most of it. Thankfully, our Kentucky Beef Council team looks challenges in the face and chooses to see them as opportunities as we strive to maximize your Checkoff dollars. As a New Year begins it is uncertain what impact the global pandemic will continue to have, but find certainty that your Kentucky Beef Council is committed to providing quality promotion, education, and research to Kentucky’s beef industry.

Thinly pounded Flank Steak is marinated and filled with olive tapenade, spinach and feta before roasting alongside your favorite vegetables.

INGREDIENTS 1 beef Flank Steak (1-1/2 to 2 pounds) • BEEF MARINADE: 1/3 cup lemon juice • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil • 2 tablespoons dried oregano leaves • FILLING: 1/3 cup olive tapenade • 1 cup frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry • 1/4 cup crumbled low-fat feta cheese • VEGETABLES: 4 cups grape or cherry tomatoes • 1/2 teaspoon salt DIRECTIONS 1. Place steak between 2 pieces of plastic wrap. Using smooth side of meat mallet, pound steak to 1/2-inch thickness. Place steak in large food-safe plastic bag or large baking dish. Combine marinade ingredients in small bowl. Pour marinade over steak; turn to coat. Close bag securely or cover dish and marinate in refrigerator 4 hours or as long as overnight, turning occasionally. 2. Preheat oven to 425°F. Line shallow baking pan with parchment paper. Remove steak from marinade. Reserve remaining marinade; cover and refrigerate. Place steak on cutting board so grain is running top to bottom. Spread tapenade on steak. Arrange spinach evenly on tapenade and sprinkle with feta. Starting from side closest to you, roll the steak tightly to form a log. Using 6 (8-inch long) pieces of kitchen string, tie log in even intervals. 3. Cut log between string into 6 equal pieces, leaving string in place. Place pieces, cut-side up, on baking pan. In a medium bowl, combine reserved marinade and tomatoes, toss to coat. Arrange tomato mixture around pinwheels. Roast in 425°F for 25 to 35 minutes until instant read temperature inserted horizontally into center registers 165°F. Let stand 5 minutes before serving. Cook’s Tip: Serve pinwheels with a cooked whole grain such as faro, bulgur or quinoa. Chunks of zucchini and yellow squash can be used in place of tomatoes.

COW COUNTRY •

JANUARY 2021

• A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E K E N T U C K Y C AT T L E M E N ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N

KENTUCKY BEEF COUNCIL

Take Heart Today’s Lean Beef in a Heart-Healthy Lifestyle People often look for new ways to enjoy a variety of protein foods in a healthy lifestyle. Heart-healthy diets recommend focusing on lean protein, and that includes lean cuts of beef like Top Sirloin, Strip Steak and Flank Steak.

The good news is today’s beef is much leaner and lower in saturated fat than ever before.

SAME GREAT TASTE, LEANER THAN EVER Enhanced trimming practices by processors and retailers have resulted in beef that is leaner than it was decades ago. The external fat on beef cuts sold at grocery stores has decreased by 80 percent since 1990.1 And, nearly 65 percent of all beef muscle cuts sold in grocery stores are considered lean.2

GO LEAN FOR HEART HEALTH

Did you know that lean beef can be as effective as fish and poultry in managing cholesterol as part of a heart-healthy diet? In fact, significant research shows that people can enjoy 4-5½ ounces of lean beef, daily, as part of a heart-healthy lifestyle to lower blood pressure and improve cholesterol levels.3, 4, 5

LEAN BEEF = HEALTHY FATS + NUTRIENTS FOR HEALTH Half of the fatty acids in a serving of beef are monounsaturated fats – the same heart-healthy fat found in olive oil. And, a 3-ounce serving of lean beef delivers 10 essential nutrients in just 150 calories, including about 25 grams of high-quality protein. It would take 1½ to 2 times more calories to get the same amount of protein from beans, nuts and grains.6

BIG NUTRITION IN A SMALL PACKAGE

Meals That Nourish

1 McNeill SH, et al. The evolution of lean beef: identifying lean beef in today’s U.S. marketplace. Meat Sci 2011:90:1-8. 2 FreshLook/IRI, 52 weeks ending 12/27/15, Total U.S. Cuts; categorized by VMMeats System. 3 Maki KC, et al. A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials that compare the lipid effects of beef versus poultry and/or fish consumption. J Clin Lipidol 2012;6:352-61. 4 Roussell MA, et al. Beef in an Optimal Lean Diet study: effects on lipids, lipoproteins, and apolipoproteins. Am J Clin Nutr 2012;95:9-16. 5 Roussell MA, et al. Effects of a DASH-like diet containing lean beef on vascular health. J Hum Hypertens 2014;28:600-5.

Burger on a Salad

Mediterranean Beef Pinwheels

Visit www.BeefItsWhatsForDinner.com for full recipes. COW COUNTRY •

JANUARY 2021

6 US Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, Nutrient Data Laboratory. USDA National Nutrient Database for Standard Reference, Release 28 (Slightly revised). Version Current: May 2016. Internet: http://www.ars.usda.gov/ba/bhnrc/ndl

• A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E K E N T U C K Y C AT T L E M E N ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N

KENTUCKY BEEF NETWORK BECKY THOMPSON that specifically focuses on the economic aspects of stocker / backgrounding operations.

Director of Kentucky Beef Network

In November the Kentucky Beef Network was approved for its eleventh grant from the Kentucky Agricultural Development Fund for $1,445,400 in State Funds for program work in 2021 & 2022. Our focus with these monies continues to be on increasing net farm income along with program expansion across the state. Please see brief programs of focus below, for a complete list of programs please visit www.kybeefnetwork.com In November KBN staff along with our partners from the Beef Extension team met with the Kentucky Agricultural Development Board (KADB) recipient review committee and Governor’s Office of Agricultural Policy (GOAP) staff to review our new and continuing programs for KBN 11. I appreciate the time the committee members and staff took to go through our report and listen to our updates to gain a better understanding of their impact for Kentucky farmers. The KADB and GOAP staff should be commended for their dedication toward the Kentucky Agricultural Development Fund making sure each applicant and program will somehow impact rural Kentucky agriculture. The board and staff show huge passion for the future of Kentucky agriculture. Below you will find some highlights of our current funded programs, for a complete list please visit kybeefnetwork.com. Evolution of the KBN/UK Educational Programs The KBN grant request for 2020-2021 reflects an evolution in programming. This evolution was the result of online Beef Extension Forum and the 2019 Kentucky Cattlemen’s Association Industry Long Range Plan. Over 300 Kentucky producers had input into these two plans. The goal from each process was to establish a new vision for the beef industry and especially on marketing and beef educational programming. The KBN/UK Beef Team identified two core strategies from the Kentucky Cattlemen’s Association Long Range Plan and five key areas from the Beef Extension Forum that furthered those Core Strategies to help serve as guiding principles for our 66

Field Associates

programs. Core Strategy I: Cultivate ValueAdded Marketing Opportunities • Expand marketing opportunities available to Kentucky Farm Families • Cultivate using a business approach to cattle management and marketing Core Strategy II: Strengthen Research, Demonstration and Outreach • Develop Educational programs to support finishing and harvesting cattle in Kentucky • Infuse more youth and new farmers into the beef industry through development of programs that support their needs • Provide continuing education opportunities that foster a growth in production and management on the farm Post Weaning Value-Added Program – PVAP Objectives: Encourage cow-calf producers to retain ownership and capture added value from their investment in beef cattle genetics and BQCA certification through diversified marketing strategies. Two options will be offered: PRECONDITION-PVAP - which is an on-farm preconditioning program that prepares calves for the feedlot and FEEDLOT-PVAP - which allows producers to send cattle to the feedlot for evaluation of performance and carcass merit.

The KBN 11 grant will continue the work of six field associates across the state (see facing page for a complete list and contact information). They help support CAIP programs and state KBN programs, and work to improve management practices and efficiencies on farms they work with. Each field associate is equipped with scales to help producers weigh cattle at various stages of management. If you don’t know your field associate or it’s been awhile since they’ve been to your farm I encourage you to reach out to them. Master Finisher Program Recent events have highlighted an increase demand in the production of locally raised beef by consumers. However, Kentucky has not historically

been recognized as a location for finishing beef cattle. One of the limitations to finishing beef in Kentucky is the accessibility of meat packing facilities to harvest live cattle and produce beef. However, recent investments to expand local processing capacities will help to alleviate that barrier to finishing cattle in Kentucky. With the weakening of this barrier, it is paramount that Kentucky’s cattle producers are equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to produce and market finished cattle to meet the demands for locally sourced beef. The goal of the Master Finisher program will be to provide producer education on all facets of beef production related to finishing beef cattle as well as marketing beef to consumers. Please watch future issues of Cow Country for more information on these programs and others as they are developed and registration opportunities open.

CPH SALE DATES: February 2: Guthrie • February 10: Lexington February 18: Owensboro • April 29: Owensboro • May 12: Lexington August 12: Owensboro • December 2: Owensboro

Regional and Virtual Stocker/ Backgrounding Profitability Conferences Outside of cow-calf production, stocker and backgrounding operations are the most common beef cattle operations in Kentucky. However, they are very unique in the sense that they are margin operations, with considerable cash outlay and risk. Due to their unique nature, traditional extension programming aimed at cow-calf operators is often insufficient for the needs of these producers. For this reason, an educational program is being developed COW COUNTRY •

JANUARY 2021

• A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E K E N T U C K Y C AT T L E M E N ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N

KENTUCKY BEEF NETWORK

E D E N S H A L E FA R M U P DAT E DAN MILLER

This new tire waterer replaced an old, malfunctioning Ritchie water tank. This new tire water tank will allow multiple head to drink at once, while also having extremely good durability against both the livestock and the skid steer scraping the pens. I wish to give full credit and many thanks to Dr. Steve Higgins with the University

KBN Industry Coordinator

The construction projects at the farm have continued up into December. We poured concrete on December 10th and that will have all of the projects completed. During this construction season we completed one of our largest long term projects, the complete renovation of the bull barn (our main cattle barn and working facility). This project first started in September 2015 with the expanding of a heavy traffic pad lot beside the barn, the addition of a water harvesting system which captures rainwater from the roof, and a large 8 foot tire water tank. Then in July 2017 we modified the ventilation in the barn by cutting out a 12 inch section of metal at the top of the wall just below the rafters. We also cut out large blocks of metal siding that allowed much higher air flows and increased sunlight across the floor of the barn. Both of these improvements proved helpful in keeping the bedding in the pens drier and the air less stagnant. In September 2019 we added a covered manure stack pad to be able to store all the manure that this facility would create. That same month we renovated four of the existing pens. That renovation included four different flooring treatments (concrete block, GeoGrid, tire cylinders, GeoWeb), all new panels and gates, and the addition of two fence line feeders that each service two pens. We also replaced two old rusted out Ritchie water tanks with a new Ritchie open trough style waterer, and a Cobet single hole water tank. In October 2020 we started the last phase

of Kentucky. Without his continued vision of making things more efficient we would not have been able to make this multiyear renovation a success. His visionary mindset, tireless work ethic, and ability to apply unique technology are unmatched anywhere in the country. I look forward to collaborating with Dr. Higgins on many more projects in the future.

of the Bull Barn Renovation project. During this last phase we renovated the floor in the last two cattle holding pens. In the first pen we used the GeoGrid that we had used previously, but this time we added a drainage system underneath of the gravel. This is the same style of drainage that is used on sports fields to move the water away quickly. The drain pipe is 6 inches wide and 1 inch thick and it lays flat on the floor. It comes in a roll and you lay it out and it can be cut easily with a utility knife. We found this product to be easier to work with than other drainage pipe that we had used in the past. In the last pen we implemented the heavy traffic pad technique. We laid down geotextile fabric and covered it with 8 inches of dense grade aggregate (DGA). We then compacted the gravel by soaking the gravel with water and using a vibrating roller to create maximum compaction. Once compacted and dried, the pen is very hard and will stand up to the pressure from the cattle’s hooves giving the pen an extended life. We do know that the heavy traffic pad pen will need the most maintenance over time, but we wanted to be able to highlight those differences in a side by side comparison within the same barn. These two newly renovated pens also share a new Fenceline Feeding System hay feeder. This feeder is the same design as the two previously installed Fenceline Feeders in the barn. With this addition we will be able to feed hay to 6 different groups of cattle at once all within the same barn. The last step in this phase of renovation was to add a small 4 foot tire waterer.

K E N T U C K Y B E E F N E T W O R K FA C I L I TAT O R S

Ben Lloyd

Whitesville, KY (270) 993-1074 strridge@aol.com COW COUNTRY •

Ron Shrout

Winchester, KY (606) 205-6143 ronshrout@bellsouth.net JANUARY 2021

Charles Embry

Cave City, KY (270) 646-5939 dale.embry@yahoo.com

• A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E K E N T U C K Y C AT T L E M E N ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N

Jeff Stephens

Ewing, KY (606) 782-7640 stephensbeef@gmail.com

Jacob Settles

Springfield, KY (859) 805-0724 jacob.settles4@yahoo.com 67

HIGHVIEW FARMS 827 West Main Street Campbellsville, Kentucky 42718 Ben T. Cox DVM (270) 469-5517 Registered Angus Cattle

SHAW FAMILY ANGUS Jim & Cathy Shaw 935 Miller Road • Hodgenville, KY 42748 (270) 769-8260 www.shawfamilyangus.com Quality Registered Angus Cattle since 1975

ANGUS

President: Jason Crowe Vice President: Henry B Smith Secretary/Treasurer: Anne DeMott

HILL VIEW FARMS

T H E B U S I Jimmy N E SGilles S BREED

5160 Lee Rudy Road BOYD BEEF CATTLE Owensboro, KY 42301 6077 Helena Road Mayslick, KY 41055 (270) 686-8876 Charlie Boyd II: (606) 584-5194 • Blake Boyd: (606) 375-3718 (270) 929-537 www.boydbeef.com • cboyd2@maysvilleky.net

HAMILTON ANGUS FARMS Eddie Hamilton 2142 Stilesville Road Science Hill, KY 42553 edjohami@aol.com (606) 271-1286 Bulls and Females for Sale

BRANCH VIEW ANGUS

HERITAGE FARM Tom McGinnis 1024 Hinkle Lane • Shelbyville, KY (502) 633-1634, home • (502) 633-5100, work (502) 655-0164, cell

927 Old Liberty Pike • Hustonville, KY 40437FARMS ANGUS JOHNSON Ridgeview Angus (859) 238-0771 • www.branchviewangus.com Angus BullsCoffey & Females James S. & LuAnn Coffey, Donald & Donna Annual Production Sale- 2ndSlaughters, Saturday in April KY Keith: (270) 635-0723 BURKS CATTLE CO. Reese: (270) 635-1137 531 Rick Rd.

Bulls & females sold private treaty. Inquiries Welcome. Sell only what we would buy.

HIGHVIEW FARMS 827 West Main Street Campbellsville, Kentucky 42718 Ben T. Cox DVM (270) 469-5517 Registered Angus Cattle HILL VIEW FARMS Jimmy Gilles 5160 Lee Rudy Road Owensboro, KY 42301 (270) 686-8876 (270) 929-537

CARDINAL HILL FARMS 405 Cedar Grove Rd. • Glasgow, KY 42141 Mike Elmore: (270) 404-6589MILLERS RUN FARM Bob Johnson: (270) 427-1410William N. Offutt IV cardinalhillfarms.com • mike@cardinalhillfarms.com

JOHNSON FARMS ANGUS Angus Bulls & Females Slaughters, KY Keith: (270) 635-0723 Reese: (270) 635-1137

only what wePark would City, buy. KY 42160

ok.com

Eddie Burks • (270) 991-6398 www.burkscattle.com

LEGACY FARMS

BURTON & SONS ANGUS Daniel and Lindsey Reynolds Joe D. or Karen Burton • Bryan Carman, Partner, Ridgeview Angus South Jackson Highway 480 Hominy Hill Rd. Nancy, 1709 KY 42544 Joe: (606) 305-3081 • Bryan: (606) 875-3453 Hardyville, KY 42746 Located 15 miles West of Somerset klburton01@windstream.net(270) 528-6275/(270) 528-6120

www.legacyfarmsangus.com

SMITHLAND ANGUS FARM 5202 East Hwy 80, Russell Springs, SHAW FAMILY ANGUS KY 42642 & Cathy Shaw(270) 866-3898 Charles “Bud” &Jim Pam Smith: 935 Miller Road • Hodgenville, KY 42748 Henry & Melissa(270) Smith: (270) 866-2311 769-8260

www.shawfamilyangus.com Quality Registered Angus Cattle since 1975

SMITHLAND ANGUS FARM ST. CLAIR FARMS REGISTERED ANGUS East Hwy 80, Russell Springs, KY 42642 Eric & Sherry St.5202 Clair Charles “Bud” & Pam Smith: (270) 866-3898 13433 Falls of Rough Road • Falls Rough, Henry & Melissa Smith: of (270) 866-2311KY 40119 Home: (270) 257-2965 • Cell: (270) 617-1079 ST. CLAIR FARMS REGISTERED ANGUS www.stclairangus.com Eric & Sherry St. Clair Performance Tested &Rough Female 2016 13433Bull Falls of RoadSale • FallsApril of Rough, KY 40119 Home: (270) 257-2965 • Cell: (270) 617-1079 www.stclairangus.com Performance Tested Bull & Female Sale April 2020

TAMME VALLEY FARM TAMME VALLEY FARM Jacob Tamme, Owner-Operator Jacob Tamme, Owner-Operator (859) 583-7134 (859) 583-7134 jacob.tamme@gmail.com jacob.tamme@gmail.com www.tammevalley.com & Find us on Facebook! www.tammevalley.com & Find us on Facebook! TRIPLE D ANGUS Nathaniel & Darla Denham

TWIN CREEK FARM Nathaniel(Bub), Sarah, Ashley Denham 423-2457 • (606)Gibson 875-0780 Shawn, Melissa, (606) Devin & Dylan tripledangus.com (270) 337-3072 or (270) 692-5304 Dennis & Emily TWIN CREEK FARM Shawn, Melissa, Devin & Dylan Gibson 270/337-2128 or(270) 270/402-4338 337-3072 or (270) 692-5304 Dennis & View Emily Production Sale in April Watch for us in Branch

3790 Paris Road Georgetown, KY 40324

MT. MORIAH ANGUS FARMS COFFEY ANGUS FARMS (859) 533-2020 • millersrunfarm@aol.com 661 Hopewell Road Bob, Kathy, and Rob Clark (859) 748-5558 www.millersrunfarm.com Liberty, KY 42539 1446 Kennedy Bridge Rd. Harrodsburg, KY 40330 Matt Coffey: (270) 799-6288 Heifers for sale Bob: (859)339-2610 • Rob: (859)612-1594 mtmoriahfarms1@gmail.com Dewey Coffey: (606) 787-2620 www.mtmoriahangus.com Genetics for Maximum Profitability since 1984 COOL SPRINGS CREEK FARM MILLERS RUN FARM MUD RIVER ANGUS Guy & Aline Babin William N. Offutt IV 10 Oak Hill Drive 3790 Paris Road Georgetown, KY 40324 269 Paul Coomer Rd Gradyville, KY 42742 (859) 533-2020 • millersrunfarm@aol.com Russellville, KY 42276 www.millersrunfarm.com (270) 205-1669 Wayne Johnson: (270) 303-6354 www.coolspringscreekfarm.com • gdbabin@outlook.com Heifers for sale

Gary Johnson: (270) 498-7208

D&D LONGVIEW ANGUS Danny & Debbie Burris 550 Willie Nell Road Columbia, KY 42728 FOUR KINGS ANGUS (270) 348-5766 • (270) 250-3701 • (270) 250-1277

270/337-2128 or 270/402-4338 Watch for us in Branch View Production Sale in April WHITE FARM KENTUCKY Tim ANGUS MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION and AmyASSOCIATION White 3664 Military Pike • Lexington, KY 40513 NAME Home: (859)223-0326 Tim: (859) 509-5401 • Amy (859)227-2552 whitefarm4@twc.com

MUD RIVER ANGUS 10 Oak Hill Drive Russellville, KY 42276 Wayne Johnson: (270) 303-6354 Gary Johnson: (270) 498-7208

FARM NAME

250 Bright Leaf Dr. • Harrodsburg, KY 40330

DAVIS BEND FARMS Cary & Kim King FOUR KINGS ANGUS ADDRESS 2315 Davis Bend Road 250 Bright Leaf Dr. • Harrodsburg, KY 40330 Carymking@yahoo.com • fourkingsangus.com Canmer, KY 42722 Cary & Kim King timmothyljeffries@gmail.comCary Cell: (859) 613-3734 • Colby Myers - Purebred Manager Carymking@yahoo.com • fourkingsangus.com www.davisbendfarms.com Cary Cell: (859) 613-3734 • Colby Myers - Purebred Manager Tim: (270) 528-6605 • Leslie: (270) 528-6435 CITY FALL CREEK ANGUS OLD BARK FARM 448 Corder Farm Road OLD BARK FARM 370 Ferrill Hill, Buffalo, KY 42716 Monticello, KY 42633 Kenley Conner 270/358-8057 370 Ferrill Hill, Buffalo, KY 42716 Ronnie Corder Registered Angus Cattle (606) 348-6588 Kenley Conner 270/358-8057 PHONE 1 Registered Angus Cattle PLEASANT HILL FARMS GREAT MEADOWS ANGUS ASSOCIATION Gil, Mary, Corbin, Caroline, and Catherine Cowles 38th Annual Fall Sale • October 24, 2020 ASANT HILL 500 Rockfield Richpond Road PLE www.greatmeadowsangus.com Rockfield, KY 42274 f a r m s Paul Bradshaw PLEASANT HILL FARMS EMAIL (270) 843-9021 • Fax (270) 843-9005 (502) 817-7502 Gil, Mary, Corbin, Caroline, and Catherine LocatedCowles 7 miles west of Bowling Green, 1/2 mile off Hwy 68/80 n

500 Rockfield Richpond Road RAGS ANGUS FARM HAINES ANGUS FARMS Richard and Glenda Stallons Rockfield, KY 42274 5294 Park City- Glasgow Rd. Dogwood Kelly Road Hopkinsville, KY 42240 (270) 843-9021 • Fax (270) 843-9005 1240 Park City, KY 42160 Home: (270) 885-4352 Cell: (270) 839-2442 Kenneth Haines, Jr.: (270) 749-8862 Located 7 miles west of Bowling Green,rstallons@bellsouth.net 1/2 mile off Hwy 68/80 68

COW COUNTRY •

JANUARY 2021

TIME TO PAY YOUR 2021 DUES! STATE

ZIP

PHONE 2

DUES MUST BE PAID PRIOR TO DECEMBER 31.

Return to: Anne DeMott • 1220 Angus Trail • Lexington, Kentucky 40509 • Annaul Dues $35

• A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E K E N T U C K Y C AT T L E M E N ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N

COW COUNTRY •

JANUARY 2021

• A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E K E N T U C K Y C AT T L E M E N ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N

KENTUCKY CATTLE FARMERS 10,80010,800 KENTUCKY CATTLE FARM

REACHES OVER REACHES OVER

20,000 20,00

OUR APRIL AND AUGUST BONUS ISSUES WILL BE DISTRIBUTED TO OVER OUR APRIL AND AUGUST BONUS ISSUES WILL BE DISTRIBUTED TO OVER

YOUR AD HERE

PRINT ADS • • • • •

PRINT ADS Premium positions priced according to • Premium positions priced according to availability availability Insert pricing is available upon request • Insert pricing is available upon request Classifieds are also available, call for • Classifieds are also available, call for pricing pricing Closing dates are the 5th of the preceding • Closing dates are the 5th of the preceding month month One-color option available by adding $125 • One-color option available by adding $125 to any b/w rate to any b/w rate

3/4 Page 1/2 Page 1/4 Page 1/8 Page

COMMERCIAL

1/16 Page Full Page 3/4 Page 1/2 Page 1/4 Page

$509 $959 Full Page $410 $860 3/4 Page $357 $582 1/2 Page $205 $430 1/4 Page $126 $351 1/8 Page $95 $320 1/16 Page $626 $1180 Full Page $504 $1058 3/4 Page $439 $716 1/2 Page $252 $529 1/4 Page

PRODUCER RATES

Full Page

$509

$959

$410

$860

$357

$582

$205

$430

$126

$351

$95

$320

$626

YOUR

AD HERE

VIDEO SERVICES Promote your farm, business or organization by becoming a sponsor of Kentucky Cattle News! farm, sharing businessthe or latest organization by becoming a sponsor of Kentucky Ca Kentucky Cattle News Promote is a videoyour segment information and events in the KY Kentucky Cattlemonthly News ison a video segment sharing the latest information beef industry. The segment is shared the KCA’s social/web pages and reaches an and events in beef industry. The segment on the KCA’s social/web and rea audience of 20,000 each month. It’s also available is toshared county monthly cattlemen’s associations to sharepages at audience of 20,000 each month. It’s also available to county cattlemen’s associations their meetings. their meetings. Your sponsorship will include a stand-alone video, produced by our staff to use for your own sponsorship willininclude a stand-alone video, bycan ouralso staff to use for y purposes, and a shortYour commercial to air an episode of Kentucky Cattleproduced News. You purposes,subject and a short commercial to air in an episode of Kentucky Cattle News. Yo provide an existing commercial, to approval. provide an existing commercial, subject to approval. SPONSORSHIP LEVEL

Platinium

STAND-ALONE VIDEO SPONSORSHIP LEVEL

2.5 - 3 minutes Platinium 2 - 2.5 minutes Gold 1 - 2 minutes Silver

Silver Bronze

KCN COMMERCIAL STAND-ALONE VIDEO

30 seconds 2.5 - 3 minutes 30 seconds 2 - 2.5 minutes 15 seconds 1 - 2 minutes 30 seconds*

Bronze

15 seconds* Display your logo*

DIGITAL ADVERTISING DIGITAL ADVERTISING

PRICE KCN COMMERCIAL

$3,000 + 30 seconds $2,500 30 seconds $2,000 15 seconds $1,500 30 seconds* $1,000 15 seconds* $500 Display your logo*

PRI

$3,0

$2,5

$2,0

$1,5

$1,0

Email Blast

Reach over 5,500 cattlemen directly with a customized email blast. $250 Email Blast Reach over 5,500 cattlemen directly with a customized email blast.

$1180

Facebook

Promote your sale or products to over 14,000 directly through KCA $250 Facebook Promote your sale or products to over 14,000 directly through KCA

$504

$1058

E-Newsletter

$439

$716

Send customers directly to your website with a link in our newsletter! $250 E-Newsletter Send customers directly to your website with a link in our newsletter!

Web Banner

$252

$529

Banner advertisement on KCA website (250x85 px) $250 Web Banner Banner advertisement on KCA website (250x85 px)

OTHER DESIGN SERVICES OTHER DESIGN SERVICES Logo Design Logo Design Printed Marketing Materials Printed Marketing Materials • Ad Design • Ad Design • Sales Flyer • Sales Flyer • Brochure • Brochure • Business Cards • Business Cards • Postcards • Postcards • And more! • And more!

YOUR AD HERE

VIDEO SERVICES

Gold

SIZE

COMMERCIAL

PRODUCER RATES

SIZE

YOUR AD HERE

JACOB REDWAY CAREY BROWN cbrown@kycattle.org CAREY BROWNjredway@kycattle.orgJACOB REDWAY cbrown@kycattle.org FARM ACCOUNTS jredway@kycattle.org BUSINESS OR NATIONAL ACCOUNTS BUSINESS OR NATIONAL ACCOUNTS

FARM ACCOUNTS

CALL US TODAY! (859) 278-0899 CALL US TODAY! (859) 278-0899 COW COUNTRY •

JANUARY 2021

• A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E K E N T U C K Y C AT T L E M E N ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N

KENTUCKY

GELBVIEH

AA LAND & CATTLE

Registered Gelbvieh & Balancers Cynthiana, KY Luke Arthur (859) 298-8323 luke.arthur93@gmail.com Bulls • Show Prospects • Embryos Bulls sell with GE EPD’s • Show Prospects

BAR IV LIVESTOCK

Barry, Beth & Ben Racke • Brad Racke

7416 Tippenhauer Rd. • Cold Spring, KY 41076 Phone (859) 635-3832 • Barry cell (859) 991-1992 Brad cell (859) 393-3677 • Ben cell (859) 393-3730 Fax (859) 635-3832 • bar4@twc.com

A S S O C I AT I O N

William McIntosh, President.......................(502) 867-3132 Luke Arthur, Vice President........................(859) 298-8323 Pat Tilghman, Secretary/Treasurer.............(270) 670-8449

LARRY CLARK & SONS LLC

Registered Gelbvieh Cattle 106 Clark Houk Road • Greensburg, KY 42743 Larry Clark, Owner & Operator (270) 299-5167 • (270) 405-6848 Lpclarkandsons@msn.com

CLIFFORD FARMS

3459 KY HWY 1284E Cynthiana, KY 41031 Since 1937 (859) 234-6956

Cattle for sale at all times.

BRIAN W. DYER, DVM

BEE LICK GELBVIEHS

Eddie Reynolds 277 Old Bee Lick Rd. Crab Orchard, KY 40419 606-379-2281(H) 606-305-1972(C) Bulls & Females for sale

Owner/Manager GELBVIEH/BALANCERS 2050 Glasgow Road Burkesville, KY 42717 Brian, Lauren, Kristen Barry, Emily & Julia (270) 864-5909

FULL CIRCLE FARMS

Registered Gelbvieh Cattle Brad Burke 989 Metcalf Mill Road • Ewing KY 41039 (H) 606-267-5609 • (C) 606-782-1367 gbb789@windstream.net

CD FARMS

Clayton & Debbie Cash 1214 Ottawa School Road Brodhead, KY 40409 (606)-308-3247 • (606)-758-8994 Gelbvieh-Balancer Bulls & Heifers For Sale by Private Treaty

KILBOURNE GELBVIEH

East Bernstadt, KY 606-843-6583 cell 606-309-4662 Black Replacement Heifers & Bulls Available Embryo transplant & AI sired calves

MOCKINGBIRD HILL FARMS

Registered Gelbvieh Cattle Shane Wells 10172 Provo Rd. Rochester, KY H: 270-934-2198 C: 270-791-8196 swells@logantele.com

Meeting modern industry demands: • Added Fertility • Increased Efficiency • More pounds of calf weaned American Gelbvieh Association 303-465-2333 | www.gelbvieh.org JOIN KENTUCKY GELBVIEH ASSOCIATION Mail to: 690 Lick Branch Road, Glasgow, Kentucky 42141 FARM NAME

YOUR NAME

ADRESS

CITY, STATE

PLEASANT MEADOWS FARM

Gary & Pat Tilghman Lindsey Tilghman Jones Family Carrie & Daryl Derossett Family 690 Lick Branch Road Glasgow, KY 42141 270.646.7024 • pleasantmeadowsfarm@hotmail.com

COW COUNTRY •

JANUARY 2021

• A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E K E N T U C K Y C AT T L E M E N ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N

ZIP

PHONE

Dues are $25/year, payable to Kentucky Gelbvieh Association

FLEECE VEST (BLACK)

HOODIE (GREY)

A P PA R E L

MENS LADIES $27

$27

$29

$31

WINDBREAKER (NAVY BLUE)

1/4 ZIP PULLOVER (BLACK)

$25

$27

$28

QTY

APPAREL TOTAL

$25

$27

$28

KJCA PULLOVER (NAVY BLUE)

$27

$29

$31

QTY

TOTAL

S QTY

$27

$29

$31

ADULT

IF PAYING BY CREDIT CARD

DELIVERY INFORMATION NAME

Visa

NAME ON CARD

MasterCard Discover American Express

+ SHIPPING & HANDLING

ADDRESS

CREDIT CARD NO.

CITY

EXPIRATION DATE

$7.00 = TOTAL ENCLOSED

Cash

STATE

ZIP

CVC

SIGNATURE

PHONE

Check Credit Card

Mail PAYMENT and COMPLETED FORM to: Kentucky Cattlemen’s Association • 176 Pasadena Drive • Lexington, Kentucky 40503 Or Fax: (859) 260-2060 Please allow 2 to 3 weeks for delivery. NOW AVAILABLE ONLINE! Visit http://bit.ly/KCAstore (case sensitive) to order and pay online!

COW COUNTRY •

JANUARY 2021

• A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E K E N T U C K Y C AT T L E M E N ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N

Kentucky Hereford Association Join the Kentucky Hereford Association today! Call Earlene Thomas for more information. Kentucky Beef Expo: March 5-7, 2021 Wells Farm

KHA Officers

President: Steve Green Secretary/ Treasurer: Earlene Thomas 859-623-5734 thomasep@roadrunner.com

-HEREFORDS -

www.dogwoodherefords.com

Boyd Beef Cattle

Codee Guffey • 1815 Grassy Springs Road Versailles, Kentucky 40383 (502) 598-6355 rockridgeherefords@gmail.com www.rockridgeherefords.com

6077 Helena Road • Mayslick, KY 41055 Charlie Boyd II · 606-584-5194 Annual Bull Sale second Saturday in March Hereford and Angus Bulls

TK4 Herefords Polled Hereford and Gelbvieh Cattle 3459 KY Hwy. 1284 E. Cythiana, KY 41031 (859) 234-6956 Ben, Jane, Shelby and Lincoln

Thomas Farm

Eric & Ronnie Thomas 2396 Union City Rd. Richmond, KY 40475 (859) 623-5734 • Eric’s Cell (859) 314-8256

Tony & Kathy Staples 992 Knotts Road Brandenburg, KY 40108 (270) 422-4220 tstaples@bbtel.com

Windy Hills Farm Jackie D. Perkins II 367 Mt. Pisgah Rd. • Bremen, KY 42325 (270) 543-3586

“Cattle for sale at all times”

Breeding to produce good cows since 1981

WOLF FARM

BECKLEY HEREFORDS

Registered Polled Herefords Bulls & Females for sale Tim & Peggy Wolf 12939 Peach Grove Rd. Alexandria, KY 41001 Home: 859-635-0899 Cell: 859-991-3484

Peyton’s Well Polled Herefords

The Lowell Atwood Family 133 Edgewood Drive Stanford, KY (606) 365-2520 home/fax (606) 669-1455 cell

Victor- influenced cattle bred for performance on grass.

“Black cows need a good Hereford Bull”

COW COUNTRY •

JANUARY 2021

L. Wayne Beckley 1420 Fitchburg Rd. Ravenna, KY 40472 Home: 606-723-3021 Cell: 859-779-0962

L.W. Beckley D.V.M 284 Pyrse Lane Irvine, KY 40336 Cell: 859-779-1419 Clinic: 606-726-0000

www.beckleyherefords.com

Old Fall Creek Farms

AHA & KHA member • Proven bloodlines Private treaty sales • Visitors always welcome 1874 Old Fall Creek Road Monticello, KY 42633 Reed Bertram (606) 348-7486 David Bertram (606) 278-3630 www.ofcfarms.com

Polled Herefords 439 Flatwoods Frozen Camp Road • Corbin, KY 40701 Kevin, Angela, Bobby & Brenda Wells Kenlea & Kyler Murray 606-523-0569 - Home 606-528-1691 - Home 606-344-0417 - Cell 606-682-8143 - Cell wells_farm@yahoo.com

Contact Earlene Thomas for more information: (859) 623-5734 www.kentuckyhereford.org

MPH Farms

K3 CATTLE REGISTERED HEREFORDS KYLE BUSH

Registered Polled Herefords

Paul L. Hancock 8559 KY 56 Owensboro, KY 42301 270-771-4194

K3CATTLE@YAHOO.COM

198 HICKS PIKE CYNTHIANA, KY 41031

Jackson Farms

Chambliss Hereford Farms Brad, Carla, Clay and Clint Chambliss 916 Winchester Blvd. Elizabethtown, KY 42701 Home (270) 982-3905 • Cell (270) 668-7126 fax 270-735-9922 www.chamblissherefordfarms.com

Registered Polled Herefords 8103 Bill Moss Road White House, TN 37188 Home/Fax: 615-672-4483 Cell: 615-478-4483 billymjackson@aol.com “Farming the Same Land Since 1834”

Pile Stock Farm

WCN Polled Herefords Since 1961

Registered Polled Herefords

Hansell Pile, Jr. 12045 St. John Rd. Cecilia, KY 42724 270-735-5192•270-862-4462 12 miles West of Elizabethtown

859-588-4531

Bill & Libby Norris 2220 Celina Road Burkesville, KY 42717 Phone (270) 433-7256 Cell (270) 433-1525 “Every calf needs a white face”

TS TS Tucker Stock Farms F F

“Registered Angus and Polled Herefords”

TUCKER STOCK FARMS TUCKER STOCK FARMS John Tucker II

TUCKER STOCK FARMS

“Registered Angus and Polled “Registered AngusHerefords” and Polled Herefords” “Breeding Polled Herefords for over 58 Years” 1790 Hidden Valley Lane John A. Tucker II John A. Tucker II Breeding cattle for sale at all times. Hudson, KY 40145 HiddenHerefords” Valley Lane 1790 Hidden Valley Lane “Registered Angus and 1790 Polled 270-617-0301 Hudson, KY 40145 Hudson, KY 40145 1999 Walnut Hill Rd. • Lexington, KY 40515 (270) 257-8548 (270) 257-8548 (859) 271-9086 • cell (859)533-3790 Offi ce (270) 257-8167 Office for (270) 257-8167 John A. Tucker II “Bulls always Sale”

1790 Hidden18-month-old Valley 18-month-old AngusLane & Polled Hereford Bulls For Sale Angus & Polled Hereford Bulls For Sale Hudson, KY 40145 (270) 257-8548 Office (270) 257-8167

WATSON LAND & CATTLE

18-month-old Angus &Matt, Polled Hereford Bulls&For Sale Melinda, Harlee, Wyatt Watson 6196 Mount Sterling Rd Flemingsburg, Kentucky LINEBRED VICTORCATTLE DOMINO CATTLE LINEBRED VICTOR DOMINO melindawatson8660@gmail.com Multi-Trait Selection Multi-Trait Selection Fertility Calving Ease Matt - 606-748-1600 Danny Fertility MillerDisposition Milking Ability Calving Ease Melinda - 859-625-8660 Disposition Milking Ability

jmspolledherefords.com 4850 Caldwell Ridge Rd. Knifley, KY 42753 270-465-6984 • 270-566-2694 270-465-6984 4850 Caldwell Ridge Rd.

CATTLE FOR SALE AT ALL TIMES

Knifley, KY 42753 270-465-6984

• A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E K E N T U C K Y C AT T L E M E N ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N

FEATURE

GROWING EFFICIENT POUNDS EQUALS GROWING MONEY (SAINT JOSEPH, Mo., Oct. 20, 2020) Money doesn’t grow on trees. However, it does grow on healthy cattle that are out grazing longer periods during the day. The more time calves spend grazing, the more they are going to gain and faster they are going to get to their marketready end point. Isaac Marcum at Paint Lick, Kentucky, discovered his appreciation for backgrounding cattle from his father, who managed the Eastern Kentucky University beef farm for more than 30 years, where he too backgrounded calves. Although both Marcum’s maternal and paternal grandparents owned cow-calf operations, as a self-proclaimed “parttime farmer,” he enjoys the buying, feeding and selling the calves more. Marcum likes to buy a few pot loads of steers about twice a year, once in the winter or early spring and then again in the summer once those are sold. He backgrounds the calves on pasture. He relies on the same order buyer his dad did to buy the calves from the sale barn, all within about 100 miles from home, most of them in the Blue Grass Stockyards network. When it is time to sell his calves, they are sold back through the auction market. “I’m a firm believer in the auction way to sell cattle. If you get two or three people that want the same thing that helps your sale price a little bit,” Marcum said. Once he gets those cattle home and gets them straightened out, they go to pasture. This summer he was looking for an alternative to feeding them a commoditybased feed to save time during his busy day as a full-time Kentucky Farm Bureau insurance agent. His local feed dealer turned him onto the VitaFerm® 3013% Protein Tub®, as an alternative to feeding every day. Once his calves took to the VitaFerm tubs, Marcum asked his feed rep about a mineral solution. That’s how he learned about the Gain Smart® 74

Stocker HEAT® mineral. “The first thing I like is the cattle will eat it. The mineral I was feeding before, it seemed like they weren’t eating very much of it. I don’t know if it had a bitter taste or what. The second thing, during the heat of the summer in July and August, when it is 90 degrees plus and really humid here in Kentucky, those cattle were out picking, eating grass almost all day. So, they weren’t shaded up and trying to stay cool. I think that is probably the best thing because the gain on those cattle has impressed me and made me a believer in the Gain Smart mineral,” Marcum said. Marcum explained that during the five years since he’s been on his own backgrounding calves, he’s kept very detailed records. In a typical summer, when he supplements his calves with feed they will gain about 1.8 pounds per day. This year, his calves were solely grazing grass, but were supplemented with Gain Smart mineral. During the summer heat on grass with the Gain Smart, they gained 2.1 pounds per day, and the protein tubs were only out a portion of that two-month grazing period. “I’ve never had cattle gain like that in the summer, especially with no feed, and I did see a lot less flies on those cattle. At the end of the day, pounds equal money,” Marcum said.

digestibility by amplifying nutrient supply for maximum performance. Amaferm is research-proven to stimulate digestion and nutrient absorption of forage for optimum gain as well as maintain performance during heat stress. The HEAT package includes capsaicin to help maintain circulation to support animal performance and gain in both heat and fescue situations. Capsaicin is research-proven to support animals’ ability to maintain normal body temperature. It also includes garlic to

deter insects. Money might not grow on trees, but making a wise investment in a mineral program, helps grow calves. And as Marcum said, “pounds equal money.” With 0.3 pounds more gain per day, that means more efficient gains on fewer resources, and getting calves turned back to the auction market quicker for one Kentucky cattleman. To learn more about adding the Amaferm advantage to your operation and experience more efficient gains, visit www.gainsmart.com.

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 Amaferm,®, VitaFerm®, Vita Charge®, Sure Champ®, Vitalize®, and DuraFerm®. 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.

GET THE RECIPE AT KENTUCKYCATTLEMENSBEEF.COM

Gain Smart Stocker HEAT is a freechoice vitamin and mineral supplement for stocker cattle designed to balance basic nutrient needs to maximize efficient gain on grass pasture. The HEAT package helps prevent heat stress during temperatures of 70 degrees and above, or anytime cattle are grazing fescue. The Gain Smart Stocker contains organic copper and zinc plus added iodine for maximum bioavailability to the animal to support hoof health and immunity. It also contains Amaferm®, a precision prebiotic designed to enhance COW COUNTRY •

JANUARY 2021

• A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E K E N T U C K Y C AT T L E M E N ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N

Roy, Jessica and Cooper Canada

AMER

600 Cumberland Drive • Morehead, KY 40351 859-227-7323 • racekannon@hotmail.com

AMERICA’S

COW

Swain Select Simmental

12113 Green Valley Dr. • Louisville, KY 40243

frederickswain@bellsouth.net facebook.com/swainselectsimmental The Simment Fred & Phyllis Chi & Angie 502-245-3866 502-287-2116 any en 502-599-4560 She’s built to last altitudes. And than adaptability, you can to your environment – Simbrah or prove

The Simmental cow can handle any environment. She’s built to last in heat, fescue or high altitudes. And thanks to the breed’s built-in adaptability, you can match Simmental genetics to your environment – SimAngus,™ SimAngus HT, Simbrah or proven Simmental genetics.

Judy and Rondal Dawson Meet America’s all-p 1156 Buzzard Roost Road Shelbyville, KY 40065 consistent, with calv 502-593-5136 • jrdawson22@outlook.com

Meet America’s all-purpose cow – gentle and consistent, with calves that give the heterosis boost commercial cattlemen need to stay profitable.

boost commer to stay

STAND STRONG

STAND

SIMMENTAL

SIMM

Shelbyville, KY • 502.639.4337 Bill Kaiser

406-587-4531 • simmental.org

Rocking P Livestock 8308 Orangeburg Road Maysville, KY 41056 Chan: 606-584-7581 Keith: 606-584-5626

JOIN KENTUCKY SIMMENTAL ASSOCIATION

Mail to: Lindsay Phillips • 8308 Orangeburg Road • Maysville, KY 41056

rockingplivestock@maysvilleky.net

FARM NAME

YOUR NAME

ADRESS

CITY, STATE

ZIP

WORK PHONE

Call or visit one of these Simmental breeders for cattle that work!

www.kysimmental.com

HOME PHONE

Membership Fee is $25.00

COW COUNTRY •

406-587-4531

JANUARY 2021

• A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E K E N T U C K Y C AT T L E M E N ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N

BRIAN & HEATHER SWAIN 3906 Pottertown Road Murray, KY 42071 270-293-4440 wksbswain@murray-ky.net SIMMENTAL AND SIMANGUS BULLS FOR SALE 1939 Huntertown Road Versailles, KY 40383 BULLS FOR SALE Chris Allen 859-351-4486 callenuky@hotmail.com Dr. Henry Allen 859-229-0755

WAYWARD HILL FARM

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

AD INDEX

General January 12, 13, 15 Kentucky Cattlemen’s Association Virtual Convention (pg. 16-19) March 5-7 Kentucky Farm Bureau Beef Expo, Louisville, KY (pg. 23) March 25 Novel Tall Fescue Renovating Workshop, Lexington, KY (pg. 4) August 10-12 Cattle Industry Convention & NCBA Trade Show, Nashville, TN Angus January 2 17th Annual Genetic Excellence Angus Bull Sale, Cookeville, TN January 18 Central Kentucky Angus Association 57th Annual Winter Sale, Danville, KY (pg. 12) February 20 Yon Family Farms Spring Sale, Ridge Spring, SC, Ridge Spring, SC (pg. 55) February 22 Robert Elliott & Sons Angus 86th Anniversary Production Sale, Adams, TN (pg. 10) February 22 Woodall Angus Farm 26th Annual Buyer’s Choice Bull Sale, Quality, KY (pg. 79) February 27 Pleasant Hill Farms Early March Madness Bull and Heifer Sale, Bowling Green, KY (pg. 3) March 8 Stone Gate Farms Annual Production Sale, Flemingsburg, KY (pg. 9) March 12 Smithland Angus 25th Annual Bull & Female Sale, Russell Springs, KY (pg. 10) March 26 Ward Ratliff Cattle Co. Spring Production Sale March 29 Oak Hollow 42nd Annual First Choice Bull Sale, Smiths Grove, KY (pg. 5) April 10 Branch View Angus Annual Sale, Hustonville, KY (pg. 80) April 17 Rock Ridge Farm Production Sale April 24 Great Meadows Angus Association Production Sale October 30 Yon Family Farms Fall Sale, Ridge Spring, SC Gelbvieh January 9 C-Cross Cattle Co. Annual Bull Sale, Biscoe, NC Hereford February 19 White Hawk Ranch 11th Annual Beef Maker Bull Sale, Buchanan, GA (pg. 14) Multi-Breed February 2 CPH Sale, Guthrie, KY February 10 CPH Sale, Lexington, KY February 18 CPH Sale, Owensboro, KY April 3 Laurel County Cattlemen’s Association 8th Annual Commercial Open Heifer Sale, London, KY (pg. 4) April 29 CPH Sale, Owensboro, KY May 12 CPH Sale, Lexington, KY August 12 CPH Sale, Owensboro, KY December 2 CPH Sale, Owensboro, KY Red Angus March 20 Red Hill Farms 16th Annual More Than A Bull Sale, Lafayette, TN (pg. 11)

SALERS T H E

B A L A N C E D

B R E E D

COW COUNTRY •

AGCO......................................................................27 Alliance for Grassland Renewal.............................. 4 Allison Charolais.................................................... 23 Alltech..............................................................33 American Angus Association.................................. 9 American Simmental Association........................ 50 Beefmaster Breeders United..................................61 BioZyme, Inc.....................................................40, 51 Blue Grass Stockyards............................................37 Branch View Angus................................................80 Bridgeview Angus Farm........................................ 45 Burkmann Nutrition...............................................47 Bush Hog...........................................................15, 48 Central Farm Supply..................... 13, 42, 43, 49, 60 Central KY Ag Credit............................................. 46 Central KY Angus Association...............................12 CHR Hansen........................................................... 36 Dievert Sales Service............................................. 34 Dura Cast................................................................30 Farm Credit Mid-America......................................31 Green River Livestock............................................ 22 Hayes Trailer Sales................................................. 32 Jackson Marketing Solutions.................................55 John Deere.............................................................. 35 Kentucky Angus Assoc....................................68, 69 Kentucky Beef Expo............................................... 23 Kentucky Gelbvieh Assoc....................................... 71 Kentucky Hereford Assoc.......................................73 Kentucky Hoop Barns............................................ 54 Kentucky Salers Assoc............................................76 Kentucky Simmental Assoc....................................75 Laurel County Cattlemen’s Association................. 4 Mid South Ag LLC....................................................9 Midcontinent Livestock Supplements.................. 28 My Team Cattle & Crop Insurance........................41 Neat Steel.................................................................. 2 Norbrook................................................................. 78 Oak Hollow................................................................5 Pennington Seed...................................................... 8 Pleasant Hill Farms..................................................3 Red Barn and Associates....................................... 32 Red Hill Farms........................................................ 11 Rip’s Farm Center................................................... 44 Robert Elliott & Sons..............................................10 Roto-Mix......................................................36 Safety Zone Calf Catcher....................................... 26 Smithland Angus.....................................................10 Stone Gate Farms..................................................... 9 Tarter Gate................................................................ 2 The Hartford Livestock......................................... 49 United Producers, Inc............................................57 Walters Buildings................................................... 34 Westway Feed Products..........................................51 White Hawk Ranch.................................................14 Woodall Angus.......................................................79 Y-Tex...............................................................29 Yon Family Farms...................................................55 Zoetis.................................................................53,59

DIAMOND J SALERS

Donald Johnson • 11660 N. Hwy 1247 • Eubank, KY 42564 • 606-379-1558

WILLIS FARMS

Danny Willis • 964 Johnson Rd • Frankfort, KY 40601 • 502-803-5011 • drwc21@aol.com

DEL-SU FARM

Howard & Sue Edwards • 20 Rose Road, Somerset, KY 42501 • 606-679-1675 Jeriah Privett • 606-416-1154

JANUARY 2021

• A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E K E N T U C K Y C AT T L E M E N ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N

CLASSIFIEDS PERFORMANCE TESTED PUREBRED ANGUS BULLS FOR SALE Call 270-202-7186 for more info or check out www.oakhollowangus.com for current availability. FOR SALE 19-20 month old Polled Hereford bulls. Good selection. Low birthweight, medium frame. Free Delivery Available. JMS Polled Herefords, Knifley, KY Danny 270-566-2694 Trent 270-566-2000 FOUNDATION SALE VII • September 18, 2021 Selling FULLBLOOD & PUREBRED LIMOUSIN Genetics. For info call : A C H Holdings, LLC Stephen Haynes 270-799-8685 RED ANGUS FOR SALE Bulls: Yearlings and 2-year-olds. Open Heifers. Show Heifer Prospects. Contact: Johnnie Cundiff 606-305-6443 or 606-871-7438 REGISTERED BLACK SIMMENTAL BULLS Excellent EPD’s. Semen Tested. Delivery Available. Maximize your profit with proven performance. All bulls qualify for new CAIP cost-share. Adam Wheatley 502-349-2665 BREEDING AGE HEREFORD BULLS FOR SALE AT ALL TIMES Over 60 years of Line 1 Hereford Genetics. Groups of open and bred heifers available for sale at all times. Chambliss Hereford Farms. 270-668-7126

COMPREHENSIVE NUTRIENT MANAGEMENT PLANS (CNMPS) Livestock manure management planning, manure storage facility planning, and water quality BMPs implementation. Ben Koostra - Professional Engineer and NRCS Technical Service Provider - Lexington - 859-559-4662 SORTING POLES – PADDLES – FLAGS Poles with your 8” decal, $6.20 each for 50 or $7.25 each per 25. Sorting flag, $11.25, Sorting paddles, $9. Ear tag cutters with print, quantities at $3.25 each. Kerndt Livestock Products, 800-207-3115

REGISTERED RED ANGUS BULLS FOR SALE

LEGEND LESPEDEZA TED LIMIPPLY SU

* FREE DELIVERY *

800-753-6511

FOUR WINDS FARM

www.Legendlespedeza.com

New Castle, Kentucky

(502) 296-1044

JD 5325 - CANOPY- LDR- 2WD $21,000 Meyer 510 TMR mixers - In STOCK Cloverdale 500 T -TMR mixers - in Stock Stoltzfus 10 ton Litter spreader $28,500 Caterpillar 242B skid loader-$17,500 New Holland 790 choppers-@$7500 John Deere 8200 drill $5500 Gehl 1065 chopper- 2 row narrow $7850 John Deere 3975 base unit $15,000 Gehl 8285 feeder wagon $6000 New Idea 363- manure spreader $8500 Artex SB 200- vertical beater- for rental Kemco Bale Wrapper new $29,000 Stoltzfus lime - litter- fert cu 50 $18,500 JD 5085E- loader - 4wd- canopy $33,000 Farmco feeder wagons-15 in stock-call Www.redbarnandassociates.com Charlie B. Edgington 859-608-9745

MARKET REPORT

S O U T H E A S T F E E D E R C A T T L E P R I C E S 11 D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 0 weights

STEER

HEIFER

KY/TN

LA/MS

9-10

119-125

122-128

114-120

117-123

120-126

118-124

8-9

120-128

123-131

116-124

118-126

124-132

119-127

7-8

124-132

127-135

119-127

121-129

127-135

6-7

130-140

134-144

124-134

126-136

5-6

142-154

152-164

137-149

4-5

159-173

167-181

151-165

weights

KY/TN

LA/MS

121-129

112-120

119-127

108-116

109-117

115-123

111-119

131-141

127-137

113-123

121-131

109-119

112-122

118-128

110-120

140-152

144-156

142-154

120-132

125-137

116-128

122-134

117-129

162-176

154-168

161-175

131-145

141-155

127-141

133-147

129-143

130-144

COWS AL

LA/MS

KY/TN

UTIL

52-61

42-51

50-59

56-65

50-59

46-55

CN/CUT

42-51

38-47

44-53

48-57

44-53

40-49

BULLS

76-84

71-79

78-86

80-88

82-90

70-78

COW COUNTRY •

JANUARY 2021

• A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E K E N T U C K Y C AT T L E M E N ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N

Feeder cattle traded mostly steady to $5 softer. Calves ranged from $3 lower to $3 higher. Market cows traded $2 lower to $2 firmer, ending near steady.

FEATURE TIMELY TIPS FOR SEPTEMBER

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THE 2021 CAIP BULL PURCHASE PROGRAM

SPRING-CALVING COW HERD Study the performance of last year’s calf crop and plan for improvement. Plan your breeding program and consider a better herd sire(s). Select herd sires which will allow you to meet your goals and be willing to pay for superior animals.

DARRH BULLOCK

Consider vaccinating the cows to help prevent calf scours.

Beef Specialist, University of Kentucky

What a year! 2020 will likely go down as the strangest year that most of us have ever experienced. If it can get weirder, then no thank you. If you are like me, you are eager for 2021 to get rolling and let’s put 2020 in the rearview mirror. To get that started I am going to let you know what is going on in the CAIP Beef Genetic Improvement Program (Bull Purchase Cost-share) so that you can hopefully buy the right bull for your operation and be sure the bull qualifies for cost-share if it is available to you. Even if you aren’t eligible to take advantage of the cost-share program there should be some information in the article that will benefit you in your next bull purchase. The biggest change in this years CAIP program is that for a bull to qualify he must have been genomically tested or have an accuracy value for Calving Ease of .30 or greater. This is an added burden to seedstock producers, but it greatly improves the ability of commercial producers to buy a bull that has less risk for his Expected Progeny Differences (EPD) to misrepresent his genetic potential. In other words, if you are buying a bull with a Calving Ease Direct EPD that qualifies as Heifer Acceptable, if he has been genomically tested then there is less risk of him causing calving difficulty when bred to heifers. Genomic testing gives greater accuracy to the EPD and EPD with greater accuracy reduces the risk of the EPD being incorrect. Besides requiring bulls to be genomically tested or have an accuracy value of .30 or greater for Calving Ease, few changes have been made to the program. The first thing you should do is check with your county ANR Extension agent to get all the necessary information and to determine if your county is offering

CAIP funds. If so, then here is a summary of what to do next: 1. Have a current Beef Quality and Care Assurance (BQCA) certification number or complete the training. 2. Read the required document to determine what type of bull best fits your operation (https:// agpolicy.ky.gov/funds/Documents/ caip_epd-standards.pdf). This will guide you through the process of determining which of six categories fits your situation best: Heifer Acceptable, Terminal, Balanced Trait, Low Maintenance, High Performance or Carcass Merit. 3. The next step is to determine what breed you wish to purchase. Remember, commercial producers should always consider the benefits of crossbreeding when making this decision. 4. Once you have read this document and know what type of bull you wish to purchase and have determined which breed you are interested in, then follow the EPD guidelines to determine which bulls qualify. To help in this process we have developed a tool to help determine if a bull qualifies - http://afs.ca.uky. edu/beef/KBAT. On this site select the “Calculator for Buyers” button and fill in the appropriate boxes, then click the “Check Eligibility” button and you should have your answer. Seedstock producers can also use this tool to determine which categories a specific bull qualifies for to assist their customers; you need to click the “Calculator for Sellers” button and follow the instructions.

Keep replacement heifer calves gaining to increase the probability of puberty occurring before the start of the spring breeding season. Start cows on the high magnesium mineral supplement soon. Consider protein supplementation if hay is less than 10% crude protein. If cows are thin, begin energy (grain) supplementation now. Cows must reach a body condition score of 5 before calving to maximize their opportunity for reproductive success. Supplementation now allows adequate time for cows to calving in adequate body condition score. Get ready for calving season! See that all equipment and materials are ready, including obstetrical equipment, record forms or booklets, eartags, scales for obtaining birthweights, etc. Prepare a calving area where assistance can be provided easily if needed. Purchase ear tags for calves and number them ahead of time if possible. Plan for enough labor to watch/assist during the calving period. Move early calving heifers and cows to pastures that are relatively small and easily accessible to facilities in case calving assistance is needed. Keep them in good condition but don’t overfeed

them at this time. Increase their nutrient intake after they calve. FALL-CALVING HERD Provide clean windbreaks and shelter for young calves. Breeding season continues. Keep fall calving cows on accumulated pasture as long as possible, then start feeding hay/grain. Don’t let these cows lose body condition! Catch up on castrating, dehorning and implanting. GENERAL Feed hay in areas where mud is less of a problem. Consider preparing a feeding area with gravel over geotextile fabric or maybe a concrete feeding pad. Increase feed as the temperature drops, especially when the weather is extremely cold and damp. When temperature drops to 15°F, cattle need access to windbreaks. Provide water at all times. Cattle need 5 to 11 gallons per head daily even in the coldest weather. Be aware of frozen pond hazards. Keep ice “broken” so that cattle won’t walk out on the pond trying to get water. Automatic waterers, even the “frost-free” or “energy-free” waterers can freeze up in extremely cold weather. Watch closely. Consider renovating and improving pastures with legumes, especially if they have poor stands of grass or if they contain high levels of the fescue endophyte. Purchase seed and get equipment ready this month.

5. Remember, the bull must have been genomically tested or have a Calving Ease EPD accuracy value of .30 or COW COUNTRY •

JANUARY 2021

• A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E K E N T U C K Y C AT T L E M E N ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N

greater to be acceptable for 2021 or later funding. 6. The bull must be a minimum of 12 months of age and pass a Breeding Soundness Exam in the past 6 months. 7. You must own the bull a minimum of six months and use him a minimum of 2 successive breeding seasons. Even if you are not eligible for costshare money this is a useful guideline to follow to help in selecting your next bull. Buying bulls represents a significant cost to beef farmers, but the reward in future production can offset that cost. However, in order to improve production, you must ensure that you buy a bull that properly fits your management and your marketing plan. Buying the so-called “best” bull at a sale does not guarantee success. If that bull is “great” because of excellent carcass characteristics, but you sell your calves at the stockyard at weaning, then the bull may be of little value in your situation. Finding the right bull for your operation is the key and this program is designed to help facilitate that. The Ag Development Board and I realize that this new condition of requiring bulls to be genomically tested increases costs to seedstock producers and adds another criterion to be met by participants, but we strongly feel this will ultimately benefit the beef industry of Kentucky. There is value in increased accuracy, so commercial producers should be willing to pay a little more for these genomically tested bulls and the funds received through the CAIP program will more than offset that added expenditure. I truly believe this program has greatly improved the quality of cattle being produced in Kentucky and this is the next step in continued improvement. I hope that everyone has a better year than the last and please continue supplying the world’s best food - BEEF.

Monday • 5:30 PM Dinner served presale

February 22 At the farm • Quality, KY

Selling Sons of

Connealy Commonwealth MGS Treasure • Yon Full Force C398 SS Niagara • Connealy Concord 60 Bulls 30 Registered Cows, most 3-in-1s 25 Registered Bred Heifers 25 Bred Commercial Heifers

Call to Request a Sale Book David Woodall, DVM (270) 847-1010 Gary Woodall (270) 725-0819 Luke Woodall (270) 889-1138 Woodallangus@aol.com

www.woodallangus.com Follow us on Facebook @WoodallAngus

Our Service

• Foot Guarantee • Huge emphasis on soundness and foot quality • Breeder’s guarantee • Breeding soundness examined • BVD PI Tested • All bulls foot-scored

Our program

• Non-Pampered Forage Developed Bulls • Athletic bulls • Huge emphasis on fertility • Johne’s NG herd status with annual testing • Comprehensive herd health program

Free delivery with qualified purchases!

COW COUNTRY •

JANUARY 2021

• A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E K E N T U C K Y C AT T L E M E N ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N

SELLING 350 HEAD

100 BULLS | 80 FEMALES | 200 COMMERCIAL FEMALES

ANNUAL SALE APRIL 10 | NOON | HUSTONVILLE, KY

Add pounds and dollars to your calf crop! Fall bull group average: Top 16% WW and YW.

Connealy Legendary 644L

Musgrave 316 Exclusive 1175

8 sons sell! GAR Ashland K25

10 sons sell!

5 sons sell!

Largest Angus Sale in Kentucky

branchviewangus.com 859-533-1301 or 606-706-0355 james@branchviewangus.com James S. Coffey Donald Coffey

Danny Smith John Ethington