When Zachary Damrow first moved to Idaho, youth involvement in the dairy show industry was very minimal – and over the years, it continued to decline. After he and his wife had their two children, Callen and Dawson, Damrow felt inspired to ensure there would be something meaningful for them to be a part of.

Steppler Farms, located in Miami, Manitoba, is the largest registered purebred Charolais herd in the province. Run by Andre Steppler, his wife Katie and their three kids (Brynn, Brayden and Declan), the operation continues to breed cattle for productivity and show ring appeal, while creating a legacy for generations to come.

The cowhands at Wildorado Cattle Company (WCC) have raised a number of registered Angus bulls, cows and heifers for successful production sales since 2019. This outfit differs from the average cattle operation because it is managed and operated by high school students.

Teenagers are not growing up on farms like they used to just 30 years ago. To overcome this gap, it is our responsibility to provide the platforms necessary for the next generation of beef cattle producers and industry experts.

It’s county fair week, or at least it is at the time of me writing this (the first week of August) it is. When I was younger it was my favorite time of year. It was like Christmas morning. The one where you just can’t wait. You’re excited, jittery with anticipation.

I wasn’t really thrilled about it, but circumstances dictated that I make several trips and spend several days in the concrete and asphalt jungle of Salt Lake City this summer.

Join the whole Progressive Cattle crew – David, Paul, Tyrell, Carrie and Abby – as they enjoy the Cassia County Fair in southern Idaho. They speak with Ryan Udy about the experiences of being a junior exhibitor at the county fair and all the fun that comes with it. Abby also interviews Elliott Dennis, from University of Nebraska – Lincoln, as they compare the cattle market in 2024 versus 2014 and discuss how producers can make the decision to cull, maintain or expand this fall.

Rural America is the backbone of our nation. It is where family values are based, where respect and responsibility are grown and where future leaders are developed.

MYBEP connects young cattle enthusiasts with cattle producers and facilitates a mentorship relationship between the two. MYBEP participants receive a heifer calf to raise, show and start their own herd with.

Ringworm can be a menace to your show string. Learn more about it in our latest Leading the Way article.