Tuesday, April 22, 2014

Every day is Earth Day on the Farm


Hickory Flat Cattle Co. is nestled in the rolling hills of Madison County near Highland. Ted Krauskopf and his family have been raising cattle on this farm since 1995.

“I worked for the steel mill and when I retired I established a cooperator herd with Andras Stock Farm of Manchester. My operation allows me to graze around 40 cows on 90 acres of pasture,” Ted said.

Hickory Flat Cattle Co. sits just 30 miles from St. Louis, so urban encroachment has become an issue. Several years ago, the Krauskopf family made a long-term commitment to preserve part of their farm by placing it in a permanent conservation easement, which forever protects the land from development.

“We’re in a beautiful part of the state and urban sprawl is getting closer. We’re using a management strategy to ensure this farm remains in the family for generations and that the land base is preserved,” he said. 


Ted worked with United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) to develop a best management practices plan through the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP). One key aspect of the plan was to put in place systems to protect surface water from access by livestock. This includes installing fencing and more than a mile of water lines.

“There are several environmental challenges in the area that we operate in,” he said. “Our water here falls into the Kaskasia watershed and it’s our responsibility to keep it clean. Our soil is also highly erodible and we’re mindful to improve soil quality.”

The Krauskopf family added new systems for getting water to cattle in pastures where it wasn’t available before. With the new water systems, Hickory Flat Cattle Co. was able to implement a new pasture management program which includes strip grazing.

The operation has, since 2007, significantly upgraded its fencing infrastructure to enable a strip grazing system. This enabled them to make the farm more productive by increasing the grazable land, while growing healthier grasses with stronger roots and improved soil conditions.

“The cattle are grazed on half an acre per day and they don’t spend much time trampling forage because they get fresh grass every day,” he said. “Most people assume strip grazing is time consuming and labor intensive, but it only takes me 20 to 30 minutes a day to take down the fence, give the cattle a new strip of grass, and put the fence back up. My main piece of equipment is a 4-wheeler.”

Krauskopf also credits strip grazing for making it through the summer of 2012 drought without having to feed hay.

The farm’s EQIP plan includes a winter feeding station. This 100 foot long by 35 foot wide structure can hold 60-head of cattle and was initially constructed as a covered facility to feed hay during the winter. Ted said it now serves several purposes including a cattle handling and weaning facility and providing summer shade for cattle comfort.

Dan Steinmann, USDA NRCS district conservationist said, “The Krauskopf’s farm is an excellent example of conservation systems used on pastureland, cropland and flooded bottom land fields. They planned and implemented conservation practices and management tools that go beyond basic resource management.”

Hickory Flat Cattle Co.’s conservation plan has not only helped increase the environmental integrity of the farm, but it also provided a few unintended animal health improvements.

“By keeping cattle out of the pond and by making water more readily available, the overall health of the cows and calves has improved,” Ted said. “We actually pay a water bill for the cows, but the cost is offset by the improved health and higher weaning weights. They aren’t fighting secondary infections picked up by drinking surface water and with cool, fresh water available they drink more during the summer.”


Implementing a conservation plan benefits Ted by cutting down on his work load, inputs, and machinery costs. The cattle have fresh water, green grass and a fence to hold them in – those are their three main objectives.


“We’re very pleased in what we’ve accomplished in the way of our stewardship initiatives,” he said. “I view environmental stewardship as both a gift and a responsibility. I look at the farm and have a sense of gratitude and at the same time I feel a huge responsibility to continue its upkeep to ensure the quality of the land for our use and for those around us.”

Submit Comments to Stop EPA from Expanding Clean Water Act Authority

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Corps) recently proposed an expansion of their federal authority over "waters of the U.S." The agencies have proposed to redefine the definition of "Waters of the United States," and that new definition would require cattle ranchers to get the permission of the federal government anytime they needed to expand, do maintenance, or perform routine activities like driving a tractor through a pasture. Almost all activities on our open land will now touch a "water of the United States" under the expanded definition. 

Many cattle operations will be required to get Sec. 402 NPDES permits, Sec. 404 Dredge and Fill permits, or Sec. 311 Spill Prevention Control and Countermeasure (SPCC) spill plans. The expansion flies in the face of the U.S. Constitution, the plain language of the Clean Water Act, and Congressional intent and is therefore illegal.

The proposed rule has been published in the Federal Register and is now open for comments. Tell the agency that they have stepped over the line and the proposed rule should NOT be finalized.

IBA leaders just returned from Washington, D.C., where they had a chance to express their concerns over this regulation to many within Illinois’ congressional delegation. It's now more crucial for cattlemen to voice their opinion. Support the effort to defeat this overreaching guidance document by submitting comments to the EPA and Army Corps. You can also Click here to quickly send a letter to your members of Congress today. A template is provided for both, and will take no more than a couple minutes to send.

If you have any questions, please contact 
Ashley Lyon McDonald, NCBA Deputy Environmental Counsel, at amcdonald@beef.org or call 202-347-0228.

Thursday, April 17, 2014

Giving Youth the EDGE


The Illinois Junior Beef Association (IJBA) is looking to give youth the edge needed to excel both professionally and personally for a future in the cattle and agriculture industry. The IJBA EDGE Conference is open to all juniors ages 8-21 at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign on June 9.

The EDGE Conference is designed to give youth the opportunity to learn more about the beef industry and sharpen skills needed for a future education and career in agriculture.

“We are excited to bring this educational conference to youth interested in the cattle business,” said Jill Johnson, IBA director of communications. “It's a chance for juniors to network while developing leadership potential and an awareness of information and issues facing the beef industry.”

Youth will attend sessions geared toward education and careers in the beef industry. They will learn tips on how to be an effective communicator and advocate from Christy Lee, photographer and owner of Cee Lee Communications, and Holly Spangler, associate editor for Prairie Farmer.

A carcass grading and beef safety skills lab will be conducted at the U of I Meat Science Lab. Participants will also tour the Beef Research Center learn from graduate students about opportunities to help conduct research at the student level.

Conference space is limited, and registration is required by May 15.

The registration form is available online at www.illinoibeef.com. For more information, contact Jill Johnson at 217-787-4280 or jill@illinoisbeef.com.

A schedule follows:

8:00-8:30 a.m.: Registration & Breakfast - U of I Meat Science Lab

8:30-8:45 a.m.: Welcome and IJBA Overview

8:45-9:15 a.m.: College 101
                All you need to know about preparing for an education in the agriculture industry and beyond

9:15-10:00 a.m.: Doing What You Love, Loving What You Do—Careers in Agriculture Panel

10:00-10:45 a.m.: Sizing up Social Media
                Utilizing Social Media for Advocacy with Holly Spangler 

10:45-11:30 a.m.: Speeches Worth Saluting
                Public Speaking Workshop

11:30-12:15 p.m.: Commanding the Camera
                Photography Workshop with Christy Couch Lee 

12:15-1:00 p.m.: Lunch

1:00-3:00 p.m.: Making the Grade—Evaluating Beef Carcasses and Beef Safety Demonstration

3:15-4:30 p.m.: What’s New with Research—Beef Research Farm Tour

Wednesday, April 16, 2014

May 2014 proclaimed as Illinois Beef Month


The Illinois Beef Association (IBA) is pleased to announce that May is Beef Month in Illinois. Governor Pat Quinn has signed the May Beef Month proclamation in recognition of the importance of Illinois’ beef industry to the state’s economy. The IBA is pleased to present the following proclamation:

Whereas, agriculture is one of the State of Illinois’ largest and most important economic drivers; and,

Whereas, agriculture is a diverse industry, both in terms of the commodities it produces and the businesses it supports; and,

Whereas, agriculture-related businesses employ nearly a quarter of the state’s workforce; and,

Whereas, ranked among the top five states in the nation, Illinois is home to 2,531 food companies, with many located in urban communities; and,

Whereas, one major facet of the agricultural landscape of Illinois is the beef industry, which currently produces 615 million pounds of beef per year; and,

Whereas, Illinois beef contributes over $800 million to the Illinois economy and supports more than 18,000 jobs throughout the state; and,

Whereas, the Illinois Beef Association represents many of the 14,800 beef producers in Illinois through producer education, consumer awareness, product promotion, and the advancement of economic and legislative interests; and,

Whereas, the State of Illinois recognizes that the foundation of the Illinois beef industry is the farmer, and the impact of this industry stretches beyond rural farm fields to urban communities; and,

Whereas, Illinois beef is not only found on Illinois plates, but is a supplier of choice to customers around the world; and,

Whereas, leading up to the summer grilling season, the Illinois Beef Association will begin many regional, state, and national efforts to promote beef in order to develop and maintain a profitable and sustainable beef industry; and,

Therefore, I, Pat Quinn, Governor of the State of Illinois, do hereby proclaim May 2014 as Illinois Beef Month in the State of Illinois and do hereby encourage all residents of the Land of Lincoln to support local farmers and our beef industry by recognizing its contributions to the social, cultural, and economic landscape of our state.

Join the IBA in promoting May Beef Month by sharing beef's story and to celebrate the start of summer grilling season. Various activities to promote beef in your area can be anything from visiting your local grocery store or restaurant, presenting beef sticks at a blood drive, visiting with students and teachers about beef, and much more. Contact the IBA office to receive Checkoff funded materials for use in beef promotion.

Tuesday, April 15, 2014

Calling all Young Beef Leaders

Entering the beef industry in a time of diversity and opportunity is exciting. Global challenges in agriculture are exploding. Whether it be the growth and debate of genetically modified organisms or food safety and animal welfare, young beef industry enthusiasts have the opportunity to make an impact and convey a message.

The industry needs young cattle enthusiast that can grow and thrive in an ever-changing industry and it’s the mission of the Illinois Beef Association (IBA) Young Beef Leaders to shape our industry’s future leaders.

“Young beef enthusiasts are our future, and it is important to expose them to all segments of the business,” said Shelia Stannard, IBA director of industry programs. “We hope this Young Beef Leader Training Program will give more of our producers a big picture perspective of the beef industry while providing leadership development and networking opportunities.”

Through a series of field days designed to expose members to all aspects of the industry, the IBA offers Young Beef Leaders the opportunity to further explore our business, gain essential information and network with fellow IBA members. This program offers participants the opportunity to visit leading agribusinesses and learn from industry experts. Through the development of Beef Checkoff programs, Young Beef Leaders can engage and educate consumers about the nutritious product cattlemen produce and the beef farmer’s commitment to animal care and the environment.

For an individual to participate in the Young Beef Leaders training program, he or she must be an IBA member between the ages of 21-40 and submit an application to the IBA by May 15. The application and a schedule of events can be found on the IBA website, www.illinoisbeef.com.

Monday, April 14, 2014

CattleFax - Weekly Recap

The fed cattle market had not been established for the week as went to press. Boxed beef moved lower again last week as buyer demand in front of Easter remained limited. Anticipate demand to improve after Easter as purchasing will begin for grilling season and spring holidays.

Feeder cattle prices were mainly steady to $3.00 higher for the week while calves were unevenly steady. Slaughter cows were mostly steady to $3.00 lower for the week. Summer turn-out is moving into full swing through much of the country, keeping demand stout for cattle eligible for summer grazing programs. Feedlots continue to aggressively seek feeder cattle keeping those prices well supported.

Corn prices declined last week as warmer weather forecasts for the Midwest is expected to keep planting season on track.

Check out today's Chart of the Day. For recent market news and analysis, visit CattleFax.com.

Monday, April 7, 2014

CattleFax Risk Management Seminar - June 18-19

Register today for the June 18-19 Risk Management Seminar. If you haven't already signed up for the seminar, don't wait. This is a great opportunity for those who want to incorporate new ideas in building a risk management plan or in refining their current strategy. Seating is limited, so don't delay. This seminar will fill up quickly.

For more information or to sign up, call 1-800-825-7525 or go to our website.

CattleFax - Weekly Recap

The fed cattle market was $2.00 to $4.00 lower last week. The bulk of the sales in the north are noted at $238 to $241 dressed and $150 on a live basis. In the south, trade occurred at $148 in light volume with some sellers passing that bid. Overall trade volumes were light.

Boxed beef lost ground last week as demand slowed with cold wet weather through much of the country, as well as larger slaughter levels over the past couple of weeks that resulted in more offerings. Lower prices were noted across most of the carcass.

Feeder cattle values were steady to $5.00 higher for the week while calves ranged from $2.00 higher to as much as $5.00 lower with the full decline on light weight calves. Slaughter cows were steady to $5.00 lower.

Corn prices moved higher on the week due to a bullish prospective plantings and ending stocks report issued last Monday by the USDA.

Check out today's Chart of the Day. For recent market news and analysis, visit CattleFax.com.

Wednesday, April 2, 2014

Grilling Up Success


The Tri-County Cattlemen’s Association is made up of cattlemen and cattle industry supporters in Henderson, McDonough and Warren counties. Led by a board of directors, the affiliation is well known in the west central Illinois area for grilling high quality steaks and burgers for private parties, banquets, picnics, open houses, field days, and more. In 2013 alone, the Tri-County Cattlemen’s Association fixed 5,525 ribeyes and 2,360 hamburgers for groups like the McDonough County Employees, Monsanto Learning Center, Avon FFA Chapter, Barn Crawl, Birkey’s Farm Store, Henderson County 4-H and Warren County Fair to name a few.

The money raised from these events and activities goes directly into the Tri-County Cattlemen’s Scholarship Fund, which is open to high school seniors in the three counties that plan to major in agriculture or pursue an agriculture career. Over the past several years the affiliate has given six $500 scholarships. The scholarship fund is also supported financially by an auction held each year at the annual banquet. The auction features items such as Cardinals baseball tickets, mineral feeders, semen packages, breeding services and artwork – which banquet guests can bid on to help support the scholarship program. The annual banquet is a great way for cattlemen and industry supporters to gather for an enjoyable evening! For the past several years the banquet has been maximum capacity at the Western Illinois University Grand Ballroom with entertainers such as Baxter Black, Tim Cavanaugh and Drew Hastings. The affiliate would not be where it is today if it weren’t for the support they have received over the years; in 2013, 113 sponsors graciously supporter their cause.


Tri-County Cattlemen's Association Board of Directors
All in all, the quality beef products the Tri-County Cattlemen’s Association provides for different events and activities throughout the year is promotion for the beef industry. The group encourages anyone that has a general desire to promote the beef industry and be involved to contact a board member for more information. Board member contact information is listed on the Affiliate Chapters page at www.illinoisbeef.com.

IJBA Board of Directors Attend YBIC



The Illinois Junior Beef Association (IJBA) Board of Directors attended the 2014 Youth Beef Industry Congress (YBIC), March 27-29 in St. Louis, Mo. The biennial event gathered more than 125 junior members of national beef breed associations and state cattlemen organizations.The 2014 YBIC was offered thanks to the following sponsors: Purina, the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, Allflex®, GeneSeek and Ranch House Designs. 

“The YBIC conference is a great opportunity for the IJBA Board of Directors to create relationships amongst fellow beef leaders and industry professionals who will help them lead to a better future,” said Jill Johnson, Illinois Beef Association director of communications. “The junior board today will be the beef industry leaders of tomorrow, and we need to prepare them with the adequate knowledge and experience to make them successful.” 

While attending YBIC, IJBA Directors met with GeneSeek representative Gary Felger, toured the Monsanto world headquarters, and visited Purina’s Longview Animal Nutrition Center. They also learned about the importance of beef feed efficiency from Jared Decker, University of Missouri, and Megan Von Emon, Iowa State University. Motivational speaker, Eddie Slowikowski, taught attendees the importance of living each day to its fullest and becoming a confident leader. 

In addition, participants were given time to share ideas about how to improve their respective groups and better serve their memberships. They also discussed current issues facing agriculture and how to be a positive leader in all aspects of their lives. 

Pictured L to R: Tyler Pokojski, Zadok Graff, Marie Lock, Kagney Collins Mary Kline, and Taryn Adcock

IJBA Directors participating in the event were: Marie Lock of Avon, Taryn Adcock of Assumption, Tyler Pokojski of Centralia, Kagney Collins of Flanagan, Zadok Graff of Middletown, and Mary Kline of LeRoy.

Tuesday, April 1, 2014

2014 IBA Legislative Day


The annual Legislative Reception hosted jointly by the Illinois Beef Association and the Illinois Pork Producers Association on March 25 met with a booming turnout of cattlemen and legislators alike. In addition to the evening’s reception, beef producers were able to congregate in the State Capitol earlier in the day for face-to-face meetings with their own senators and representatives as well as those legislators holding key leadership positions on committees overseeing agriculture and the environment. Other valuable points of contact included meetings with State Veterinarian Dr. Mark Ernst and Illinois EPA Director Lisa Bonnett, both of whom oversee regulatory programs affecting cattlemen in Illinois.

“Participation in our Legislative Reception and making visits with legislators in the Capitol are two invaluable actions our members can take to help represent the beef industry in Illinois. Plus, the chance to meet with agency heads and regulators in Springfield is another opportunity we’re glad to have our members take advantage of. IBA is a truly a member-led organization so having cattlemen here to speak for our industry is paramount,” said Reid Blossom, IBA executive vice president.

Some of the issues of highest concern for cattlemen during their conversations dealt with potentially harmful legislation like House Bill 5637 sponsored by Representative Naomi Jakobsson of Champaign. If passed, this bill would effectively halt any expansion of the state’s cattle feeding sector. By amending the Livestock Management Facilities Act (LMFA) and its definitions, prescribed setbacks, confidentiality, public hearing process, and oversight from the Dept of Ag, this bill would basically outlaw any new feedlots and stop any existing facilities from growing their capacity. Luckily, House Bill 5637 stalled out in the House Ag Committee and is not expected to move any farther in the legislative process this session.

“Bills like this show just how disconnected some environmental activists in the state are. We’re thankful to have friends in the General Assembly like Representative Pat Verschoore, chair of the House Ag & Conservations Committee, who can put the brakes on bad bills like this for the good of cattlemen and all of agriculture,” said IBA President Alan Adams.




Incorporating Genomics




Accuracy and reliability are becoming required tools of the trade for many in agriculture. On a diversified farm near Blue Mound, T.J. Curtin has seen that reality in all areas of production – from growing corn and soybeans to raising registered Angus bulls.

He likens the cattle industry’s use of DNA technology to other agricultural advancements, such as the use of seed varieties in row-crop operations.

“In Illinois, corn is king,” T.J. said. “Seed-corn companies today offer us much more information on each variety, and that improves accuracy. Buying a bull is similar to buying a bag of seed corn, and if I can offer higher accuracy using genomic technology, then I am willing to do that.”

The Curtin family has been raising Angus cattle for nearly 80 years. Now in its fourth generation, Curtin Land and Cattle is home to 200-plus head of registered Angus cattle, a row-crop operation and a family trucking business. The Curtins sell about 40 registered bulls each year during the annual production sale.

The technology first captured T.J.’s attention three years ago when he attended a sale offering genomic-enhanced expected progeny differences (EPDs). The added accuracy with a simple DNA test is what led T.J. to try the technology in his own operation and he has used it ever since. 



“As farmers we take risks all the time, but when we can lessen that risk, that is of great value,” T.J. said. “Commercial producers put a lot of trust in us as breeders, and now I can offer them higher accuracy for what cattle are going to do.”

Curtin is part of a growing number of cattlemen who are contributing genomic information into the EPDs produced by national breed associations.

DNA information incorporated into genomic-enhanced EPDs can be a powerful tool for cattlemen wanting to make more rapid herd improvement. In many cases, it’s similar to an added 10 to 12 progeny being reported on a given animal.

“Genomic information can help producers optimize selection, mating and management decisions for more profitable and sustainable herds,” said Kent Anderson, associate director of technical services for Zoetis. “With genomic-enhanced EPDs, producers can more confidently select genetically superior young sires before progeny information is available. Genetic testing isn’t just for seedstock producers. There are tests available that can help producers better select replacement heifers and feeder cattle for better returns.”

Due to the Curtins tight calving season, the parentage portion of the test that comes with the HD 50K test T.J. uses has helped with herd management.

“Calving for us is fast and furious – we will have around 150 calves in our first 50 days of calving,” he said. “Sometimes you can have two cows right next to each other that calved at the same time and by accident tag the wrong calf with the wrong cow – mistakes like that can happen. With the HD 50K test, we’ve caught a couple that have gotten switched and with genetic defects you have to be on the ball and get the parentage correct.”

Last spring, T.J. conducted a survey of his customers to determine whether or not they value genomic data when making a bull purchase. About 85 percent of respondents said yes, and he said that is all the reassurance he needs to know the technology is worthwhile.

“This type of technology is significant with today’s cattle prices because we need to identify cattle that will lead us to our goals more quickly,” T.J. said. “And we need to identify those superior cattle that can covert feed more efficiently and keep producing more beef with less cattle.”

Bulls - Winter's Forgotten Animal


Breeding success depends on the reproductive health of both the cow and the bull. But, because a bull is expected to service various numbers of cows, the potential fertility of the bull is extremely important.



Cattle producers consider many factors when making the decision of which bull to turn out with the cows. What genetic and physical improvements need to be made? What sire breed would best complement my cow base? How many bulls are needed to correctly cover my cows? These are all relevant questions that need to be answered as we approach the spring breeding season. Nonetheless, without a proper Breeding Soundness Exam (BSE), these decisions may not matter. The greatest bull with bad semen will not produce calves. So, consider a BSE insurance for your breeding season.



“It is essential to evaluate bulls every year before breeding starts because the fertility of an individual animal can vary from year to year. The breeding soundness exam should be performed 30 to 60 days before the start of breeding season. It is important to allow sufficient time to replace questionable bulls,” said Buzz Iliff, veterinarian with the Wyoming Vet Clinic. “This will also allow enough time for stressed animals to recover and to be tested again before beginning the breeding season.”

According to Buzz, the stress of the harsh winter could have an affect on a bull’s fertility, especially with the increased potential of frostbite to a bull’s testicles. Consulting your veterinarian to conduct a BSE will include a semen check, which can determine semen quality and fertility.

The physical examination of a BSE includes evaluating body condition, feet and leg structure and the general health of the individual bull. The external evaluation of the reproductive tract includes evaluation of the testes, spermatic cords and epididymis. Scrotal circumference is an important measure since it is directly related to the total mass of sperm-producing tissue, sperm cell normality and the onset of puberty in the bull and his female offspring.

Weight and body condition are important factors in whether a bull will be a good breeder. He needs to be in proper fitness condition to be athletic and have the endurance to breed cows.



It's important to remember that a fat bull is not as athletically fit and is just as likely to hurt himself and have issues covering cows as a bull that is too thin. When we talk about body condition scores, a body score 5 to 6 (with 1 being emaciated and 9 being obese) is fine for a bull. A BCS 5 bull isn't particularly pretty, but he is going to settle more cows than the fat bull.

Throughout the breeding season, managers need to observe and address health issues and physical problems that may arise, and manage the hierarchy of social dominance among the bulls. This is true if your herd has two bulls or 20 bulls. There's no substitute for knowing your bulls and closely monitoring them to see what's actually happening in the pasture.

"It is very important to continually assess these interactions and adjust things if necessary - move bulls, rest bulls or whatever is needed to make sure the cows get bred," Buzz said.