Will Mayfield
Association Perspective
A commercial producer's toolbox
In my short time working for the American Angus Association, my eyes have been opened to the tools available for commercial producers. Of course, the first thing most think of is the Angus Beef Bulletin itself, as this publication is an essential part of how commercial Angus producers get news from the Association.
However, there are other tools that are quite beneficial, as well, such as recordkeeping programs; Angus Information Management Software (AIMS); and selection tools, including expected progeny differences (EPDs) and dollar values ($Values), that can be utilized to make forward progress in anyone's management system.
These selection tools can allow producers to increase the genetic merit of their herds and increase efficiency in a cow-calf production system, while utilizing the same tools to benefit stocker operations, as well as feedlot systems, looking for gains and intake.
One of the newest tools to be offered by Certified Angus Beef LLC (CAB) and Angus Genetics Inc. (AGI) is the GeneMax™ genomic test that can further help a producer manage feeding and genetic programs. Find details about the program at www.cabpartners.com/genemax/. This tool is one that could really assist farmers and ranchers in the early stages of production with knowing the end product and what to prepare for.
The few tools offered by the Association that I've mentioned here are just a small sample of what is offered. Over time, by using tools offered in any operation — large or small, commercial cattlemen can add value to their operations.
For more information about the products and services of the American Angus Association, visit the Association's website at www.angus.org. Take special note of the "Commercial Programs" link found in the left column of the site.
Editor's Note: Regional Manager Will Mayfield covers Region 7, including the states of Delaware, Maryland, New England States, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Virginia & West Virginia. Click here to find the regional manager for your state.
[Click here to go to the top of the page.]