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Chuck Grove
David Gazda

Association Perspective

The “perfect storm” for the cow-calf producer means many opportunities.

2014 has started off strong as producers are realizing record prices for feeder and fed cattle throughout the country. According to market analysts, this price trend will continue as increased heifer retention has been seen in most areas of the country that have received adequate moisture. This has allowed for the slow rebuilding process to begin for some producers, while herd expansion opportunities exist for others.

The resulting shortage of feeders coupled with cheaper corn prices has created an excellent opportunity for profitability in the cattle industry, especially the cow-calf sector. The current market situation might best be described as the “perfect storm” for the cow-calf producer.

As a cow-calf or seedstock producer, have you positioned your program to capitalize on current market conditions and become (more) profitable in 2014? More specifically, are you utilizing all resources available through the American Angus Association to assist you in making those decisions where the outcome may ultimately determine the success or profitability of your program?

Cattlemen today have a number of tools available to them to facilitate genetic progress. Artificial insemination (AI), embryo transfer (ET) and ultrasound technology are but a few of those tools utilized by today’s progressive breeding programs. The Association, with its extensive database and information-management capabilities, provides the registered breeder with valuable selection tools, such as Angus Herd Improvement Records (AHIR®), MaternalPlus™ and AAA Login. Through evolving DNA technology, Association genomically enhanced expected progeny differences (GE EPDs) are processed weekly on more than 40,000 animals.

Marketing assistance is provided through the breed’s official publication, the Angus Journal, the Angus Beef Bulletin, and the newly launched online marketing website, AngusAuctions.com.

The Association also offers the commercial cattlemen tools such as Beef Records Service (BRS); Optimal Milk Module; an online, searchable Sire Evaluation Report; and GeneMax™. The AngusSource® Genetic program provides cattlemen utilizing Angus genetics valuable documentation and additional marketing support for feeder calves and replacement females.

In addition, Angus Boot Camps, hosted at various land-grant colleges each year, and the first ever Angus Mean Business National Convention & Trade Show that will take place in Kansas City, Mo., Nov. 4-6 will provide cattlemen opportunities to attend various educational workshops focusing on profitable beef production utilizing Angus genetics.

There has never been a more exciting time or a greater opportunity for profit than what exists in the beef cattle industry today. As Angus breeders and commercial cattlemen utilizing Angus genetics in your programs, you have the resources and you have the market. In 2014, you have no excuse. For more information on programs and services offered by the Association, contact your regional manager or visit www.angus.org. Comment on this article.

Editor’s Note: Regional Manager David Gazda covers Region 4, including the states of Florida, Georgia, North Carolina and South Carolina. Click here to find the regional manager for your state.


 

 


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