The foundations for beef cattle genomic testing began over a century ago, when forward-thinking breed associations started collecting pedigree and phenotypic data on registered animals. Breeders studied pedigrees, aspiring to create matings that would yield more valuable animals with desirable physical traits. 

Kathi Creamer remembers it like it was yesterday – the moment she knew she’d found her life’s calling. She was 9 years old, following her 4-H club as they made their rounds of the National Western Stock Show in Denver. 

For the past 50 years, the Joe C. King & Sons Ranch has operated with the belief that their corner of central Montana is best left as native range where cattle, wildlife and landscape act in a mutually beneficial and sustainable system.

Wisconsin is known for cheese, ice cream and all things dairy. Along with those products are its reputation for beef cattle. Jim and Roxanne Lund are part of the few who are changing that. 

Jennifer Redd Westfall is owner and operator of Redd Ranches based in Colorado. The family runs a Red Angus-based seedstock operation that also incorporates Angus, Simmental and Gelbvieh genetics. Jennifer oversees the registered herd and is actively involved in the day-to-day ranch management.

Bred for performance, easy fleshing and superior udders with a moderate frame, Woodhill Farms produces Angus cattle that are profitable from birth to the rail.

It’s no secret black-hided cattle have topped the market in price for many years. While there are no exact answers, it is an interesting topic to discuss.