LINCOLN, Neb. – The American Gelbvieh Association (AGA) has released three new economic selection indexes and four new EPDs that are now available to all AGA members and stakeholders.

“AGA is excited to introduce these new selection indexes to commercial cattlemen. They combine relevant traits and applicable pricing information to create tools that will assist producers in finding animals that best fit their ranch profitability model. The new EPDs bolster AGA’s impressive suite of traits that can be implemented by both AGA members and commercial producers using Gelbvieh and Balancer® genetics,” said Harold Bertz, AGA executive director.

Economic Selection Indexes

The new indexes are designed around three common production/marketing scenarios as described below. All three indexes are based on a breeding system where Gelbvieh bulls are mated to Angus-based cows and include selection criteria (EPDs) for economically relevant or key indicator traits. Summary statistics and percentile ranks will be reported through the DigitalBeef portal. Each index has been carefully designed and reviewed, and is described below with its selection criteria. Commercial producers should utilize the selection index whose production scenario most closely matches their production system.

Maternal Profit Index (MPI): In this production scenario, Gelbvieh bulls are mated to Angus-based cows with surplus calves marketed at weaning, with replacement heifers retained from the calf crop. EPDs weighted in this index are Calving Ease Direct (CED) and Maternal (CEM), Weaning Weight (WW), Milk, Mature Weight (MW), Dry Matter Intake (DMI), Stayability (STAY), and Heifer Pregnancy (HP). Mature weight is the primary driver and represents the significant cost of maintenance energy requirement in the cow-calf sector. Weaning Weight and Milk (expressed in pounds of calf weaning weight) represent the principal revenue stream. Stayability helps account for differences in replacement costs in the system and the effect of heifer retention on revenue streams. This index should be used by commercial cattlemen whose production scenario includes the traditional marketing of calves at weaning and replacement retention from the herd.

Feeder Profit Index™ (FPI™): Envisioned as a completely terminal index, FPI assumes all calves are marketed as finished beef carcasses priced on a value-based grid. Thus, it shouldn’t be used in production scenarios where replacements are kept from these matings. The new FPI formulation more precisely weights economically relevant traits available for selection, including the key carcass traits of Carcass Weight (CW), Ribeye Area (REA), and Dry Matter Intake (DMI) that were not included in the original formulation. The new FPI also weights Fat Thickness (FAT), post-weaning Average Daily Gain (ADG), and Calving Ease Direct (CED). Carcass value determined by carcass weight, quality, and yield grade influencing traits accounts for approximately 75% of the index as principal revenue drivers. Dry Matter Intake captures differences in expected costs to the terminal carcass endpoint.

Total Profit Index (TPI): Combining replacement female retention from the herd with carcass endpoint for marketed surplus heifers and all steers, TPI balances both maternal and terminal selection criteria. Because of the challenges faced by commercial cattlemen by the antagonisms in selection for this production scenario, TPI includes the largest and most diverse set of EPDs in the model, including carcass traits as the primary revenue drivers with cow Mature Weight (MW), Stayability (STAY), and Dry Matter Intake (DMI) as cost drivers.

Implementation of the new Gelbvieh indexes into sire selection decisions is simple and straightforward. Each index is reported in dollars and represents the differences of sires’ progeny values when produced under each of the specific scenarios. The index values reported are on a per conceived calf basis. It is expected that users of the indexes generally conform to the respective production circumstances.

The new Gelbvieh-specific selection indexes present an unprecedented opportunity for breeders and commercial cattlemen to select the right bulls for improved profit potential. These tools provide a simple, efficient, and impactful multiple trait selection strategy for producers in each of the common production scenarios.

New EPDs

Mature Weight (MWT): Body weight of cows adjusted to six years of age at body condition score 5. MWT is reported in pounds and is computed from a genetic model that leverages information from weaning weight, post-weaning gain, and mature weights of cows. Reported weights are adjusted for both age at observation and for body condition. Body weights of cows 2 to 12 years of age are utilized in the evaluation, so producers can report data at any age for the evaluation. Preferably, cows should be evaluated at or shortly following weaning, as that’s a convenient time for many producers to process cows. Weights collected at other times in the production cycle are acceptable. Producers should measure full contemporary groups on the same day as the observation date, which helps form the contemporary group.

Cow Energy Requirement-Yearly (CERY): Mature body weight, lactation potential, and birth weight are primary predictors of energy requirements. Mature Weight, Milk, and Birth Weight EPD are utilized to inform prediction equations from beef cow nutrition research to estimate differences in energy requirement over a production year. The CERY EPD is reported in pounds of Total Digestible Nutrients (TDN) required for an age 6 cow.

Dry Matter Intake (DMI): the genetic difference in pounds of expected average daily dry matter intake of progeny.

$GAIN: reports the difference in expected marginal value of gain, less the cost of feed to achieve that gain. Reported in dollars of marginal profit, with more positive values representing increased efficiency and profit.

All AGA members and commercial cattlemen are invited to attend a webinar hosted by Dr. Bob Weaber, AGA genetics consultant, on September 23, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. CST. The webinar will provide more information about each index and EPD, as well as guidance on how to utilize them in various production scenarios. Register for the webinar today at https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/HzC4BuLCQ-q6siX5zA0Dig

The American Gelbvieh Association is a progressive beef cattle breed association representing 1,100 members and approximately 40,000 cows assessed annually in a performance-oriented total herd reporting system. 

###

LINCOLN, Neb. – Registration is open for the 55th Annual American Gelbvieh Association (AGA) National Convention to be held December 3-5, 2025, at the Margaritaville Hotel Nashville in Nashville, Tennessee.

The convention will feature annual AGA committee meetings, the attendees’ favorite Bull Pen Session, Cattlemen’s Profit Roundup educational symposium featuring industry-leading speakers and breakout sessions, and the annual awards banquet honoring individuals for their outstanding contributions to the breed.

AGA members are encouraged to attend and exercise their right to vote at the AGA Annual Meeting, held on December 5, 2025. During the meeting, the election of five members to the AGA Board of Directors will take place, along with other important association business.

The AGA and American Gelbvieh Foundation (AGF) will host an evening awards banquet on December 4, 2025, to celebrate the achievements of the membership and customers. Awards will be presented to the newest AGA Hall of Fame inductee, Breeder of the Year, and Commercial Producer of the Year.

“The AGA National Convention is the highlight of the year for our members, staff, and partners. It provides an opportunity to learn, network, and be involved in the business that shapes the AGA’s future,” said Harold Bertz, AGA Executive Director. “We look forward to seeing everyone in Nashville, Tennessee!”

Continue to read Gelbvieh World and watch the AGA Facebook and Instagram pages for convention news and speaker announcements. Register before November 1, 2025, to reserve early bird pricing and reserve your hotel room at Gelbvieh.org/membership/coming-events/convention-2. For questions regarding the event, please contact the AGA office at (303) 465-2333 or email info@gelbvieh.org.

The American Gelbvieh Association is a progressive beef cattle breed association representing 1,100 members and approximately 40,000 cows assessed annually in a performance-oriented total herd reporting system. 

###

LINCOLN, Neb.– The American Gelbvieh Association (AGA) is pleased to announce the appointment of Grace Schlueter as its 2025 Summer Intern. Schlueter will officially begin her role on May 27, 2025, and will be based in Lincoln, Nebraska.

The American Gelbvieh Association (AGA) is excited to welcome Grace Schlueter as the 2025 summer intern. Schlueter, a sophomore majoring in Animal Science at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, brings a wealth of experience and enthusiasm for the cattle industry to her role.

Schlueter grew up on a registered Gelbvieh and Balancer® cow-calf operation near Scribner, Nebraska. Her lifelong involvement in agriculture includes participation in 4-H and FFA programs, where she enjoyed livestock judging and showing. She is also a current member of the UNL Block and Bridle Club and Meats Judging team.

“I’ve always been passionate about agriculture and genetics,” she said. “This internship is an incredible opportunity to gain a holistic view of the beef industry by working with a breed association.”

One of Schlueter’s key responsibilities this summer will be assisting with the American Gelbvieh Junior Association (AGJA) Junior Nationals event, which brings together youth from across the country for competitions, networking, and leadership development.

“I’m most excited about helping organize Junior Nationals,” she said. “It’s such a busy time, but I love the energy and seeing everything come together.”

AGA is committed to success of the cattle industry which means supporting and fostering opportunities for the future of the industry: the next generation of producers and colleagues.

As a former ag teacher, Harold Bertz, AGA executive director, shares that creating opportunities for interns and witnessing their professional growth is rewarding for the AGA team and its members.

“Internships provide invaluable hands-on experiences, helping our young leaders explore their passions, build skills, and discover pathways to long-term

involvement in an industry that is vital to agriculture and food production,” he says. “These are the future leaders of our industry and helping them discover all that the industry has to offer is an important role we can all take part in.” During her internship, Schlueter will gain exposure to various aspects of the AGA’s operations, including youth outreach, genetic programs, and registration services.

“This internship will help me figure out what I want to do with my future while allowing me to give back to an industry I love,” Schlueter adds. Schlueter will officially begin her internship on May 27, 2025.

Grace Schlueter, 2025 AGA Summer Intern

The American Gelbvieh Association is a progressive beef cattle breed association representing 1,100 members and approximately 40,000 cows assessed annually in a performance-oriented total herd reporting system.

###

Harold Bertz, AGA Executive Director

LINCOLN, Neb. — The American Gelbvieh Association (AGA) Board of Directors unanimously voted to hire Harold Bertz of Mayview, Missouri, as the Association’s next Executive Director.

Bertz recently served as the chief operating officer of the American Royal in Kansas City. He previously worked for the Red Angus Association of America for nearly 10 years focusing on growing the acceptance of Red Angus cattle with commercial cow/calf producers and feedyards.

“Harold brings with him great leadership, marketing expertise and understanding of the cattle industry, along with a clear vision of where Gelbvieh and Balancer® cattle fit the industry,” said Lori Maude, President of the AGA Board of Directors. “We are excited to have Harold leading the association and setting a solid path forward for the breed in a quickly changing beef industry.”

“I am honored and excited to serve this great breed and its members,” said Harold Bertz, American Gelbvieh Association Executive Director. “The Association has a rich history, innovative members strive to improve Gelbvieh and Balancer cattle, and a talent, vibrant staff. With these key elements, I have unlimited enthusiasm and optimism for our future.”

The Bertz family farm near Mayview has been in the family for seven generations. He and his wife, Melisa, are also involved with her family’s farm near Parker, Kansas. They have two grown children that are active in the beef industry.

Bertz began his new role with the American Gelbvieh Association on May 6, 2024. He can be reached at haroldb@gelbvieh.org or the AGA office at 303-465-2333.

Pictured (left to right): Patty Goes, Mark Goes, and award presenter; Connie Tabor.

LINCOLN, Neb. — Each year the American Gelbvieh Association (AGA) recognizes a dedicated member who has been an influential figure in the Gelbvieh breed. The 2024 AGA Hall of Fame inductees are Mark and Patty Goes of Odell, Nebraska. The Goes were presented with their award at the 53rd Annual AGA National Convention on November 30, 2023, at the Omaha Marriott Downtown at the Capitol District in Omaha, Nebraska.

In his professional career, Goes served as an instructor at Southeast Community College in Beatrice, Nebraska. During his tenure, he started a Gelbvieh and Balancer® herd at the college and advocated for the breed among students by taking them to shows and sales. Many of his students have started their own Gelbvieh and Balancer herds and become members of the AGA.

Goes continued youth education outside of the classroom by implementing the live carcass evaluation contest at the American Gelbvieh Junior Association (AGJA) Junior Classic. He procured the cattle, scheduled harvest slots and explained the carcass results to the contestants. Through the creation of this contest, Goes helped connect live cattle production to the value of end-product merit and consumer demand.

Goes has served in many leadership positions throughout the beef industry. Goes is a past president of the American Gelbvieh Association, serves as an active committee member, and was the first president of the American Gelbvieh Foundation (AGF) where he currently serves as the vice president. Additionally, Goes has served in multiple positions to develop the strategic directions of many industry-leading organizations.

“While I’ve always known Mark is a selfless individual, it has become even more obvious while serving on the AGF board with him,” said Tanner Aherin. “When an important decision is to be made, Mark is someone who wants to vet all the outcomes and how they might impact each breeder across the country — never making himself the priority. Mark is willing to challenge the group to ensure the right decision is made that is most beneficial for all people involved in the Gelbvieh breed.”

Congratulations to the 2024 AGA Hall of Fame inductees, Mark and Patty Goes!

The American Gelbvieh Association is a progressive beef cattle breed association representing 1,000 members and approximately 40,000 cows assessed annually in a performance-oriented total herd reporting system. 

###

Derek Martin, 2023 American Gelbvieh Association Breeder of the Year

LINCOLN, Neb. — Derek Martin of Bucklin, Kansas, was announced as the 2023 American Gelbvieh Association (AGA) Breeder of the Year at the 53rd Annual AGA National Convention on November 30, 2023, at the Omaha Marriott Downtown at the Capitol District in Omaha, Nebraska.

Martin along with his brother and sister-in-law, Eric and Holly Martin, own Golden Image Cattle near Ford, Kansas. The operation focuses on producing functional cattle that work for their commercial customers. An emphasis on structure and eye appeal in the operation’s breeding program has resulted in the cattle having success in the show ring. In addition to his Gelbvieh operation, Martin is the manager of Kinsley Feeders, LLC, a 30,000 head feedlot located near Kinsely, Kansas.

Martin recently completed his second term on the AGA board of directors, where he has served as secretary and treasurer. He has also served as the AGA representative on the American Gelbvieh Foundation board of directors. Martin manages the steers delivered to Kinsley Feeders for the AGF Steer Challenge and Scale and Rail Contest, where he provides reports and data on individual steer performance to the AGA to increase the amount of carcass data in the genetic evaluation.

In addition to his AGA involvement, Martin has been involved in the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, Kansas Livestock Association, Kansas Beef Council, and Beef Empire Days.

Congratulations to Derek Martin on being named the 2023 AGA Breeder of the Year!

The American Gelbvieh Association is a progressive beef cattle breed association representing 1,000 members and approximately 40,000 cows assessed annually in a performance-oriented total herd reporting system.

###

LINCOLN, Neb. – The Cattlemen’s Profit Roundup will once again take place at the 53rd Annual American Gelbvieh Association Convention held November 29-December 1, in Omaha, Nebraska. This year’s event will focus on the importance of end-product quality to ensure Gelbvieh and Balancer® cattle continue to deliver the value and make the grade.

This year’s symposium will be held on November 30, 2023, at 2:00 p.m. CST following the industry tour at the Omaha Marriott Downtown at the Capital District.

Dr. Scott Howard will kick-off the event with his presentation focused on carcass quality and value-added opportunities. Howard currently serves as the director of operations for Meyer Natural Foods, focused on the production of steaks, grinds and the growth of branded beef programs.

Michaela Clowser will present the results of the 2022 Beef Quality Audit and the role sustainability and Beef Quality Assurance certifications play in the United States beef industry. Clowser is the director of producer education at the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) where she leads the development and implementation of NCBA’s educational programs.

Dr. Matt Spangler will provide attendees with guidance on how to make genetics progress to improve end product quality. Spangler is a professor of animal genetics and an extension beef genetics specialist at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and serves on the Beef Improvement Federation board of directors.

The program will conclude with a panel of all three speakers to allow event attendees to ask questions and gain further insight into how the information presented can help their herd deliver the value and make the grade to move the beef industry forward.

The event is free and open to all beef producers to attend. More information can be found on Gelbvieh.org.

The American Gelbvieh Association is a progressive beef cattle breed association representing 1,100 members and approximately 40,000 cows assessed annually in a performance-oriented total herd reporting system. 

###

LINCOLN, Neb. – How can breed associations position seedstock producers to better serve their commercial customers? The answer proposed by the American Gelbvieh Association (AGA) is the identification of genetically superior beef cattle – sooner, with fewer generational intervals, and definitively.

In an upcoming September 7, 7:00 p.m. central standard time webinar, Genomics: Improving the U.S. Cowherd, Dr. Matt Spangler, beef genetics specialist for the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, will share his research and insights on the merits of collecting genomic information.

“We can genotype young animals and increase the accuracy of their predictions, or EPDs, to the same level as if they already had 10 offspring. We can increase an animal’s EPD accuracy and decrease their generation interval, or the average age of the parents when the next generation is born. Those two things together allow beef producers to make faster genetic gains,” he says.

The one-hour webinar will focus on the basics of genomics, different testing opportunities, getting started: from which test to select to how to best apply the animal data, and wrap with a live Q&A session with Dr. Matt Spangler.

“Weights, carcass and fertility are on the mind are on the mind of every commercial producer when they purchase a seedstock animal,” says Megan Slater, AGA executive director. “The goal of this webinar is to help provide resources on the importance of genomics and equipping producers with the tools needed to better leverage the technology for more desirable phenotypes, to ultimately help maximize profitability and resources.”

The webinar adds to the ongoing educational efforts of the AGA in helping familiarize members and stakeholders with the resources they need to best utilize technology and new practices for their own herd.

Register for the upcoming webinar; Genomics: Improving the U.S. Cowherd here. To learn more about leveraging genomic testing for your herd, visit www.gelbvieh.org or reach out to the office at 303-465-2333.

The American Gelbvieh Association is a progressive beef cattle breed association representing 1,100 members and approximately 40,000 cows assessed annually in a performance-oriented total herd reporting system. 

###

LINCOLN, Neb. – The American Gelbvieh Association (AGA) is excited to announce the hiring of Ava Perrier, Eureka, Kansas, as the AGA summer intern. In her internship, Perrier will be assisting in all aspects of AGA operations including members programs and services support, member education and American Gelbvieh Junior Association (AGJA) Junior Classic activities.

“The AGA’s internship program is focused on giving students a well-rounded experience with all facets of a beef breed association, from member services and junior programs to communications and marketing,” says Megan Slater, AGA executive director. “We are excited to have Ava joining us for the summer and assisting in these different areas.”

Perrier grew up on a registered Angus ranch near Eureka, Kansas. She attends Kansas State University pursuing an Animal Science degree in a communications and marketing option. She is a member of the Kansas State University Meat Judging team, serves as vice president of finance in her sorority, is an Animal Science Mentor, and is active in the Silver Key Sophomore Honorary. Ava hopes to continue her passion for communicating with people while making an impact on the beef industry in her future career.

“Breed associations are vital to the beef industry, and I have always been drawn to the work they do,” said Perrier. “The team at the AGA is full of hard-working, passionate people and I am so thankful for the opportunity to learn from them. I can’t wait to meet all the juniors, breeders and everyone else involved in the AGA!”

Perrier began her internship on May 22 and can be reached at intern@gelbvieh.org or at the AGA office at 303-465-2333.

The American Gelbvieh Association is a progressive beef cattle breed association representing 1,100 members and approximately 40,000 cows assessed annually in a performance-oriented total herd reporting system. 

###

LINCOLN, Neb. – The American Gelbvieh Association (AGA) is pleased to announce the hiring of Shianna Bradley to the AGA staff full-time as the office services specialist. In her role, Shianna will assist AGA members and customers with submitting data to the online registry service, create educational resources for AGA members, and work with the DNA department to organize the DNA sample storage library.

“We are fortunate to have the opportunity to have Shianna joining us full-time upon her graduation,” says Megan Slater, AGA executive director. “She brings a well-suited set of talents and experience that make her a great fit for this role where she’ll continue to work closely with AGA members and customers.”

Bradley grew up in South Whitley, Indiana, where she was an active 4-H member and FFA officer. She graduated from Purdue University on May 12 with her bachelor’s degree in Animal Science with a concentration in Animal Agribusiness and a minor in Farm Management. During her time at Purdue, she was an active member of Block and Bridle. She recently worked part-time at the AGA assisting members with the AGA Online Registry Service.

“Working at the AGA the past few months has truly been informative, from learning about breeding selection tools to learning from leaders in the industry, it feels great to be able to apply my education here at the AGA,” Bradley said. “I look forward to continuing to work with such great members and diving deeper into the Gelbvieh breed and its role in the beef industry.”

Bradley began her new role with the AGA on May 15 and can be reached at shianna@gelbvieh.org or at the AGA office at 303-465-2333.

The American Gelbvieh Association is a progressive beef cattle breed association representing 1,100 members and approximately 40,000 cows assessed annually in a performance-oriented total herd reporting system. 

###

LINCOLN, Neb. – Sustainability is a popular topic of conversation within the beef industry, with discussions surrounding improving operational efficiency and increasing transparency to build consumer trust while remaining profitable. For beef producers, sustainability starts at the herd level with the cow. With an efficient use of resources, the Gelbvieh cow is the picture of sustainability in today’s modern beef industry.

Gelbvieh females do more with less. Gelbvieh and Balancer® cattle offer maternal superiority through increased longevity, added fertility and more pounds of calf weaned per cow exposed. Additionally, Gelbvieh and Balancer females offer a reduced mature cow size, greater calving ease and reach puberty at an earlier age.

U.S. Meat Animal Research Center data shows Gelbvieh females have the smallest mature cow size and are the earliest to mature of the major beef breeds. The Gelbvieh breed was the only breed in the study to reduce mature cow size – at an average of 1,382 pounds Gelbvieh-sired females had the lowest five-year-old cow weight. This reduced mature cow size allows for puberty to be reached at an earlier age, which leads to calving earlier in the season and producing a heavier calf at a younger age.

Gelbvieh and Balancer genetics deliver maternal superiority in planned crossbreeding systems. Gelbvieh maternal influence offers added fertility, increased longevity, and more pounds of calf weaned per cow exposed. Using Gelbvieh and Balancer genetics can increase profitability through heavier weaning weights, improved feed bunk efficiency as well as heavier, faster-gaining cattle. Highly productive cows with adaptability, versatility and sustainability can have a positive impact on the producer’s bottom line.

Sustained production in the cow herd is essential. Gelbvieh females are proven to stay in the herd longer and consume less while weaning heavier calves. Gelbvieh-influenced females are the smart, reliable and profitable maternal choice for achieving sustainability in today’s modern beef industry. Be sustainable, breed Gelbvieh.

The American Gelbvieh Association is a progressive beef cattle breed association representing 1,100 members and approximately 40,000 cows assessed annually in a performance-oriented total herd reporting system. 

###

LINCOLN, Neb. – Dr. Bob Weaber, Kansas State University, shares in a recent interview that the merit and value of establishing “Cow Power”, a female genotyping project that is a collaborative effort between the American Gelbvieh Association (AGA), American Gelbvieh Foundation (AGF) and Neogen to increase the number of genotypes and phenotypic information on females in the AGA herdbook. The information allows producers to make data-driven female selections for their herd on an ongoing basis.

Weaber, who serves as a genetics consultant for the AGA, says that collecting genotypic information from cow herds is an excellent way to establish and maintain validated, parent-verified pedigrees on cows in the herd.

He says that the true value of the Cow Power project is found in genotyping because of the significant amount of information it adds to the genetic evaluation system.

“The accuracies of the EPDs on those females improve to provide more precise breeding opportunities for those cows,” he says. “By gathering the genomic information, we get more information about that cow’s genetic potential and her lifetime production. Genotyping cows or heifers early in their life provides opportunities for more precise breeding of those females, and genotyping allows us to track out a cow’s trajectory and your herd’s trajectory for genetic trends using that genetic information.”

Weaber shares that even in well-managed herds, somewhere between five and ten percent of the pedigrees are incorrect. And while he says those discrepancies aren’t anyone’s fault, they do impact the accuracies of the EPDs that are calculated from those animals. The Cow Power project is instrumental in resolving pedigree discrepancies, allowing producers to know what the pedigree is, and providing accurate values for EPD calculation.

Not only does the information collected help to strengthen the AGA’s database and improve genetic predictions, members will also see benefit by having this information collected on their own cowherd. Because females typically only have one calf per year, it can take years before data is collected on even just a handful of her progeny. For traits such as weaning weight and yearling weight, a genomic test can offer as much information as having 25 calves on the ground. For marbling and back fat, it’s the equivalent of having 10 progeny reported for those traits. Having this type of information of every female in the herd not only helps increase the accuracy of the EPDs but allows producers the knowledge to make more informed breeding and selection decisions.

Producers who participate and remain engaged in the Cow Power project will have access to the research to genotype replacement heifers. If a producer has submitted 90% of the genotypes for mature cows, along with mature body weight and body condition score in the first year, the member will be eligible to submit replacement heifers annually at the research price as long as the project continues. A minimum of 90% of the replacement heifers must be tested to receive research pricing.

“Cow Power allows you to plot your own destiny through the use of genomic information, which allows you to select heifers that go into the replacement pen – you can really key in on those important traits based on a heifer’s EPDs and genomic information,” he says. “From an association perspective, genotyping a broader group of animals in the population creates a greater representation of all the genotypes in the total herd. That data allows us at the research level and at the genetic evaluation level to do a better job of documenting differences in genetics because of the broader sampling.”

Weaber says that current pricing also makes the Cow Power project attractive and encourages producers to invest in their herds by utilizing the technology.

With generous support from the American Gelbvieh Foundation (AGF), the Cow Power project is now offering a lower price for the genomic test. Through participation in the project, members have the opportunity to receive a research price of $20 for a GGP-100k genomic test on females to DNA test at least 90% of their current active cow inventory. Additionally, participants who submit both mature weights and body condition scores electronically on at least 90% of the current active cow inventory will receive an additional one-time $4 rebate per head. Thus, all females can receive a GGP-100k genomic test for only $16. For just $1 more than a parentage test, members are encouraged to take advantage of this incredible opportunity and learn about the cow power in their herd.

To enroll in the Cow Power Project, contact the AGA office at 303-465-2333 or visit Gelbvieh.org.

The American Gelbvieh Association is a progressive beef cattle breed association representing 1,100 members and approximately 40,000 cows assessed annually in a performance-oriented total herd reporting system.

###

LINCOLN, Neb. – The American Gelbvieh Association (AGA) is excited to announce the Ring of Gold champions. The 2022 results were tabulated following the conclusion of the Gelbvieh and Balancer® Shows at the National Western Stock Show in January.

The AGA established the Ring of Gold program to honor the top animals shown at the conclusion for the show year. Points are earned for grand and reserve champions, as well as division champions and reserves, and are based on the actual number of animals shown at each show per division.

To honor those animals who have risen to the top during the shoe season, the Ring of Gold awards are presented to the top Gelbvieh female, Gelbvieh bull, Balancer female and Balancer bull based on points awarded throughout the year. Animals must earn points in at least two shows to qualify for Ring of Gold points each year. The 2022-2023 Ring of Gold qualified shows in either the Gelbvieh, Balancer or both divisions were: Iowa State Fair, Missouri State Fair, Northern International Livestock Exposition, National Western Stock Show and Cattlemen’s Congress. The following is a list of the top animals in their Ring of Gold division. Junior shows are not calculated in the total number of entries for the Ring of Gold tabulations.

Ring of Gold Gelbvieh Female:

1. CDCG 164J, Taubenheim Gelbvieh, Amherst, Neb.
2. CRLL Saterrah 1757J ET, Cameron, Nowack, Mo.
3. JNCC Ashlynn 123J, Cameron Nowack, Bland, Mo.

Ring of Gold Balancer Bull:

1. JRI Bonus Plan 214K298, Lily Judd, Pomona, Kan.
2. JNCC Rearview Town 149J, Cameron Nowack, Bland, Mo.

There were no animals to earn points as a division champion or reserve champion at two or more shows within the Balancer Female or Gelbvieh Bull division within the show year. On February 1, 2023, the revised regulations and qualifying standards to earn points at a show for the Ring of Gold will take effect. We encourage all exhibitors at the state, regional and national levels to review the new point standards and encourage the show superintendents to submit the official results following your shows. Ring of gold rules can be found on the Ring of Gold page under the News & Media tab on gelbvieh.org.

Below are this year’s champions in each Ring of Gold division.

Champion Ring of Gold Female – CDCG 164J, Taubenheim Gelbvieh, Amherst, Neb.

Champion Ring of Gold Balancer Bull – JRI Bonus Plan 214K298, Lily Judd, Pomona, Kan.

The American Gelbvieh Association is a progressive beef cattle breed association representing 1,100 members and approximately 40,000 cows assessed annually in a performance-oriented total herd reporting system.

###

2023 People’s Choice Balancer® Bull Futurity Winner – DCSF Post Rock Prominent 139K8

LINCOLN, Neb. – Post Rock Cattle Company, Barnard, Kansas, captured championship honors in the 2023 People’s Choice Balancer® Bull Futurity with their entry, DCSF Post Rock Prominent 139K8 ET. The event was held in conjunction with the Cattlemen’s Congress in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Over $20,000 will be awarded to Post Rock Cattle Company for breeding and exhibiting the futurity champion.

The People’s Choice Balancer Bull Futurity is in its thirteenth year and is organized by Slaughter Sale Management. The event and selection identify elite young Balancer sires that have the potential to be breed leaders.

DCSF Post Rock Prominent 139K8 was selected champion by Balancer futurity members. He was born on February 6, 2022, and is a 62.5% Balancer son of JRI Probity 254D28.

DCSF Post Rock Prominent 139K8 is a long-spined, soggy made herd bull prospect that is made correct and smooth at every angle. He is out of a flush that combines proven pedigrees and is designed to make fault-free cattle. His sire is JRI Probity 254D28 is a past futurity winner as well.

Each year, one membership is randomly drawn to receive full possession and half semen interest in the champion bull. Overmiller Gelbvieh, Smith Center, Kansas, won the drawing.

The two runners-up were TAU Limit Lock 20K ET, owned by Taubenheim Gelbvieh, Amherst, Nebraska, and BGGR Top Gun J011, owned by Black Gold Genetics, Pritchett, Colorado. Each runner-up received $2,500 in prize money.

TAU Limit Lock 20K ET was born on January 22, 2022, and is a 36.7% Balancer son of Deer Valley Growth Fund. He is massive-footed, thick-ended and big-middled. His EPD profile ranks in the top 1% for Weaning Weight, Yearling Weight and Carcass Weight.

BGGR Top Fun J011 was born on November 24, 2021, and is a 40.3% Balancer son of EGL Game Changer D136. He posted a 70-pound actual birthweight and 970-pound actual weaning weight from grass and his dam alone. He ranks in the top 3% for Weaning Weight, Yearling Weight and Feeder Profit Index.

Anyone interested in becoming a futurity member should contact David Slaughter to get their name on the waiting list for the 2024 Balancer Bull Futurity.

The American Gelbvieh Association is a progressive beef cattle breed association representing 1,100 members and approximately 40,000 cows assessed annually in a performance-oriented total herd reporting system.

###

LINCOLN, Neb. – The results are in, and champions have been awarded in the 2022 American Gelbvieh Foundation (AGF) Scale and Rail Contest and Steer Challenge. The contest harvested 90 head from 15 participants, awarding $3,625 total in cash prizes and 21 banners sponsored by the AGF.

The steers had an excellent overall performance with an average daily gain of 4.12 pounds per head per day and a dry matter feed conversion of 6.19:1. The AGF extends a special thank you to Kinsley Feeders of Kinsley, Kansas, and Derek Martin, for hosting and supporting the contest.

The steers were harvested at National Beef in Dodge City, Kansas, and sold on the USPB grid. Thank you to Stuart Jarvis for donating the USPB delivery rights. The steers had an overall hot carcass weight of 973 pounds with 92% having a yield grade of 1, 2, or 3, 79% grading USDA Prime or USDA Choice, and an overall average marbling score of 479.

The AGF continues to help advance the Gelbvieh breed through its support of research and development. For this reason, the AGF continues its Scale and Rail Contest and Steer Challenge. These two projects provide the information and funds necessary to generate data sets to advance Gelbvieh carcass merit. Together, these projects will solidify carcass merit within the Gelbvieh breed and place the cattle in a more competitive position in the beef industry through providing supplementary carcass data on Gelbvieh-influenced genetics. In addition to the data collected and knowledge gained from these projects, money raised will help to further develop more accurate tools for ranchers when selecting Gelbvieh and Balancer® genetics.

Scale & Rail Contest Results

The Scale and Rail Contest awarded $1,625 in cash prizes and 15 banners to outstanding participants in both the Gelbvieh and Balancer divisions.

Champion Average Daily Gain Gelbvieh Steer

Tag: 218J1

Average Daily Gain: 4.78 pounds

Quality Grade: USDA Choice

Yield Grade: 2

Owned By: Post Rock Cattle Co.

Sired By: RNBG 32F9

Champion Average Daily Gain Balancer Steer

Tag: 718

Average Daily Gain: 5.04 pounds

Quality Grade: USDA Choice

Yield Grade: 3

Owned By: Boehler Gelbvieh

Sired By: SB Shootout 725

Champion Carcass Value Gelbvieh Steer

Tag: J1K

Carcass Value: $2,402.37

Quality Grade: USDA Choice

Yield Grade: 3

Owned By: Lucky Cross Ranch

Sired By: VRT Lazy TV Sam U451

Champion Carcass Value Balancer Steer

Tag: 5353

Carcass Value: $2,582.74

Quality Grade: USDA Prime

Yield Grade: 3

Owned By: Ed Lavarentz

Sired By: SKF Dunn’s Escander 023E

Champion Pen of Gelbvieh Steers

Pen Value: $6,700.86

Pen Quality Grade: USDA Choice

Pen Yield Grade: 2

Owned By: Post Rock Cattle Co.

Sired By: RNBG 32F9

Champion Pen of Balancer Steers

Pen Value: $7,071.84

Pen Quality Grade: USDA Choice

Pen Yield Grade: 3

Owned By: Post Rock Cattle Co.

Sired By: JRI Probity 254D28

Reserve Champion Pen of Balancer Steers

Pen Value: $6,980.41

Pen Quality Grade: USDA Choice

Pen Yield Grade: 3

Owned By: Cedar Top Ranch

Sired By: CCMF Mr. Payweight 19C ET

Steer Challenge Results

Participants of the 2022 Steer Challenge were awarded $2,000 in cash prizes and six banners. All five participants – Boehler Gelbvieh, Flying H Genetics, Grund Beef Genetics, Lucky Cross Ranch, and Wilkinson Gelbvieh – each donated $1,000 to the AGF.

Champion Average Daily Gain

Tag: 718

Average Daily Gain: 5.04 pounds

Quality Grade: USDA Choice

Yield Grade: 3

Owned By: Boehler Gelbvieh

Sired By: SB Shootout 725

Champion Carcass Steer

Tag: 718

Carcass Value: $2,429.06

Quality Grade: USDA Choice

Yield Grade: 3

Owned By: Boehler Gelbvieh

Sired By: SB Shootout 725

Congratulations to all the 2022 Scale and Rail Contest and Steer Challenge champions and thank you to everyone who participated in the contest. To view complete results and learn more about the contests, visit https://gelbvieh.org/foundation/projects.

The American Gelbvieh Foundation secures, grows, and responsibly distributes assets for research, member education, and youth development to sustain and grow Gelbvieh genetics. 

###

LINCOLN, Neb. – The American Gelbvieh Association (AGA) is pleased to announce the addition of Megan Underwood to the AGA staff as the Communications Coordinator. In her role, Underwood will lead the communication efforts of the association, serve as editor and assist with advertising for the AGA’s monthly publications, and assist the marketing team in developing a national advertising campaign.

“Megan is a very talented young professional and has a wide range of skills in the field of agricultural communications,” says Megan Slater, AGA executive director. “We are excited to have her joining the AGA team and helping us grow the Gelbvieh and Balancer^® message.”

Underwood was raised on her family’s Hereford seedstock operation in Campbellsville, Kentucky, and spent her summers showing cattle at the state and national levels. She received her bachelor’s degree in Animal Sciences and Industry with a minor in Mass Communications and Journalism and a Professional Strategic Selling certificate from Kansas State University. She served as a College of Agriculture Ambassador, was a member of the 2020 National Western and Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Meat Judging teams, and was recognized as the 2018-2019 Block and Bridle Rookie of the Year. She graduated from Kansas State University on December 9th with her master’s degree in Agricultural Education and Communication. Her research focused on the uses and gratifications of beef cattle breed association magazines for United States beef cattle producers. She brings experience from her internships with many industry-leading beef organizations and breed associations.

“Having grown up in the beef industry, I knew I wanted a career that allowed me to focus on advancing the industry through communicating with innovative beef producers. I am excited to join the AGA and tell the Gelbvieh and Balancer story through print and digital communication platforms,” said Underwood. “I look forward to meeting AGA members and enhancing the AGA communication efforts.”

Underwood began her role with the AGA on December 19 and can be reached at meganunderwood@gelbvieh.org or at the AGA office at 303-465-2333.

The American Gelbvieh Association is a progressive beef cattle breed association representing 1,100 members and approximately 40,000 cows assessed annually in a performance-oriented total herd reporting system.

Results of the fifth annual American Gelbvieh Foundation (AGF) Steer Challenge and Scale and Rail Sire-Identified Carcass Contest have been finalized. Producers from Iowa and Nebraska took home top honors with prize payouts totaling $4,000.

The AGF continues to help advance the Gelbvieh and Balancer® breesd through its support of research and development. For this reason, the AGF launched the Steer Challenge and Scale and Rail Sire-Identified Carcass Contest in 2016. These two projects, together, provide the information and funds necessary to generate datasets to advance Gelbvieh and Balancer carcass merit.

The AGF Steer Challenge is a competition amongst individual Gelbvieh and Balancer-influenced steers in which the judging criteria focuses on carcass value and average daily gain in the feedyard. The Steer Challenge gives an opportunity for participants to donate a steer to the AGF. All proceeds from the donation go toward research and development within the breed. Green Hills Gelbvieh, Mount Ulla, North Carolina, and Flying H Genetics, Arapahoe, Nebraska, each donated a steer to the AGF this year. Thank you for your generosity. The champion steer for carcass value in the steer challenge contest was owned by Flying H Genetics. This steer had a total carcass value of $1,582.92 and graded USDA Choice. Flying H also took home champion steer for average daily gain in the steer challenge contest. This animal gained 3.93 pounds per day; the calves were on feed for 205 days.

In its fifth year, seven ranches participated in the contests at Darr Feedlot in Cozad, Nebraska. All steers were harvested in July 2020 with a total of 133 individual carcass data records. CKS Gelbvieh of Collins, Iowa, won big at this event, taking home three of the five prizes in the Gelbvieh division of the Scale and Rail Sire-Identified Carcass Contest. CKS Gelbvieh had the champion Gelbvieh steer in the carcass value category with an animal that valued at $1,593.70. This steer also posted $436.50 for an increase in value. They also had the champion Gelbvieh steer in the average daily gain category with an animal that gained 4.40 pounds per day.

CKS Gelbvieh also owned the champion pen of Gelbvieh steers in the Scale and Rail Contest with a total carcass value of $4,323.56. AMGV1395460 (CKS LEGACY E64), owned by CKS Gelbvieh, Collins, Iowa, sired the pen of three steers. This group of steers averaged a marbling score of USDA Choice, Yield Grade 3, with a 15.98 square inch ribeye and 944-pound average hot carcass weight. In total, CKS Gelbvieh took home $1,500 in prize money.

In the Balancer division, Eagle Pass Ranch of Highmore, South Dakota, won champion steer in the carcass value category. This steer valued at $1,637.29. This steer also posted $522.85 for an increase in value and graded USDA Choice. Rick and Kim Taylor of Wauneta, Nebraska, won the champion steer in the average daily gain category with a steer that gained 4.46 pounds per day.

Hamilton Farms of Hitchcock, South Dakota, won the champion pen of Balancer steers. The steers had a total carcass value of $4,649.61. AMGV1331092 (EGL CODE RED C081 ET) owned by Robert Farlee and Eagle Pass Ranch sired the pen of three steers. This group of steers averaged a marbling score of USDA Choice, Yield Grade 1, with a 15.27 square inch ribeye and 1,017 pound average hot carcass weight. In total, Hamilton Farms took home $500 in prize money.

To view full results, including all closeout data, please visit the Projects page under the Foundation tab on Gelbvieh.org.

LINCOLN, NE – The American Gelbvieh Association (AGA) is pleased to announce the relocation of its headquarters office to Lincoln, Nebraska. This relocation is taking place the first week in June.

After careful consideration and much planning by the AGA Board of Directors in 2018, the AGA began final preparations for the move earlier this year. This new location places the office in a more centralized location in relation to the U.S. beef industry, including a bulk of the Gelbvieh and Balancer® cowherd and customer base. A more direct tie to the Midwest will also give the AGA better access to help foster and grow relationships with our beef industry partners such as commercial customers, feedyards, packers, and other agriculture companies.

The AGA will occupy office space on the second floor of the office building located at 1001 S 70th Street, in Lincoln, Nebraska.

“A move to the Midwest greatly benefits the AGA’s future. The AGA will be closer to an increased number of our members and stakeholders, which will help to enhance customer relations,” says Megan Slater, AGA interim executive director. “In addition, Lincoln is a much more affordable city than the Denver metro area. This move not only financially benefits the Association, but also provides current employees with a lower cost of living and will help attract and retain new staff talent.”

All correspondence should now be sent to the AGA’s new Lincoln address: 1001 S 70th Street, Ste 215, Lincoln, NE 68510. The AGA’s phone number, 303-465-2333, will remain. The AGA will be open Monday-Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Central time.

An open house will be held at the new headquarters office once the AGA’s new office space is completed. Details of the open house will soon be available at Gelbvieh.org.

The American Gelbvieh Association (AGA) released the BOLT-powered docility expected progeny difference (EPD) in January 2019. This is the latest update to the extensive suite of EPDs used to accurately describe registered Gelbvieh and Balancer® cattle.

“The AGA is excited to be able to add docility to the line up of EPDs we offer to help cattlemen and women make selection decisions when utilizing Gelbvieh and Balancer genetics,” says Megan Slater, AGA interim executive director. “Docility is one of the many AGA EPDs produced through the multi-breed genetic evaluation powered by BOLT, and therefore is directly comparable to several breeds who also participate within the evaluation.”

Docility is an important trait that impacts beef operations’ bottom lines in each sector of the industry. Studies have shown that animals with calmer dispositions are more productive both on the ranch as well as in the feedyard and ultimately exhibit higher carcass values and greater tenderness, among other advantages.

Higher docility EPD values for Gelbvieh and Balancer animals indicate a more favorable temperament. Over the past 20 years, the Gelbvieh and Balancer breed has gained favorable progress in docility on top of a solid foundation of historically docile cattle. However, the range of docility EPDs of active sires proves that there is genetic diversity, which means further progress can be made. It’s also important to note that in herds where temperament is not currently a concern, differences will not be as intensely realized.

The American Gelbvieh Association is a progressive beef cattle breed association representing 1,000 members and approximately 40,000 cows assessed annually in a performance-oriented total herd reporting system.

###

Photo caption: The American Gelbvieh Association named Dan and Kate Warner of Warner Beef Genetics the AGA Breeder of the Year for 2018. Left to right: Dan and Kate Warner, Arapahoe, Neb.; Scott Starr, Stapleton, Neb.  

Dan and Kate Warner of Warner Beef Genetics, Arapahoe, Nebraska, were honored as the American Gelbvieh Association’s (AGA) Breeder of the Year for 2018 during the awards banquet held at the 48th Annual AGA National Convention in Nashville, Tennessee.

Dan and Kate were present at the AGA awards banquet to accept the award. Scott Starr, Stapleton, Nebraska, a longtime friend and fellow Gelbvieh and Balancer® breeder, presented the Warner couple with the award.

Dan and Kate own and operate Warner Beef Genetics along with Dan’s parents, Monte and Kristie Warner, and brother and sister-in-law Darren and Amy Warner. Warner Beef Genetics is a family operation that has been in the cattle business for over 50 years. The operation consists of over 400 registered Gelbvieh, Balancer and Angus females and 500 Gelbvieh and Angus commercial cows. The success of their cowherd revolves around breed-leading herd bulls, an aggressive AI and ET program, and unmatched customer service.

Each year Warner Beef Genetics hosts an annual bull sale in the spring and female sale in the fall. They have also partnered with two other breeders from Nebraska and Oklahoma to start a fall bull sale in Texas, with the goal of increasing demand for Gelbvieh and Balancer genetics in that area of the country.

Warner Beef Genetics has been a member of the American Gelbvieh Association since 1998. Over the years, Warner Beef has raised several bulls and females that have positively impacted the breed. Dan is a former member of the AGA Board of Directors, serving the association for six years, including time on the executive committee as vice president. As an active member of the AGA, Dan currently acts as the breed improvement committee chair.

The American Gelbvieh Association is a progressive beef cattle breed association representing 1,000 members and approximately 40,000 cows assessed annually in a performance-oriented total herd reporting system.

###

Results of the third annual American Gelbvieh Foundation (AGF) Steer Challenge and Scale and Rail Sire-Identified Carcass Contest were announced during the 48th Annual American Gelbvieh Association (AGA) National Convention awards banquet on Friday, November 30, 2018. Producers from South Dakota took home top honors with prize payouts totaling $4,750.

The AGF continues to help advance the Gelbvieh and Balancer® breed through its support of research and development. For this reason, the AGF launched the Steer Challenge and Scale and Rail Sire-Identified Carcass Contest in 2016. These two projects together provide the information and funds necessary to generate datasets to advance Gelbvieh and Balancer carcass merit.

The AGF Steer Challenge is a competition amongst individual Gelbvieh and Balancer-influenced steers in which the judging criteria focuses on carcass value and average daily gain in the feedyard. The Steer Challenge gives an opportunity for participants to donate a steer to the AGF. All proceeds from the donation go toward research and development within the breed.

In its third year, six ranches participated at Roode Feedyard in Fairbury, Nebraska. All steers were harvested and index values were calculated in July 2018 with a total of 156 individual carcass data records. The Gelbvieh and Balancer breed continues to prove itself on the rail with 90 percent of these carcasses obtaining a quality grade of USDA Choice and better. In addition, 92 percent of the steers were USDA Yield Grades 1,2, and 3. These steers averaged a 958-pound hot carcass weight with an average daily gain of 3.81 pounds per head with a 5.47:1 feed conversion on a dry matter basis.

Hamilton Farms, a commercial operation near Hitchcock, South Dakota, won big at this event. Scott Hamilton, who was named AGA’s Commercial Producer of the Year in 2016, had the champion Balancer steer in the average daily gain category with the winning steer gaining 5.17 pounds per day. They also had the runner-up Balancer steer in the average daily gain category with the steer gaining 4.99 pounds per day. In the AGF Steer Challenge portion of this contest Hamilton Farms had the champion steer in average daily gain with the animal gaining 4.36 pounds per day. That same animal also had the highest carcass value index in the steer challenge portion of the contest with a 17.20 square inch ribeye, 1,043 hot carcass weight and graded USDA Choice, Yield Grade 2 carcass. Hamilton Farms took home $2,250, which was the highest amount of prize money awarded for this year’s event.

Eagle Pass Ranch, Highmore, South Dakota, owned the champion pen of Balancer steers in the Scale and Rail Contest with a total carcass value index of 3,357.66. They had the champion Balancer steer in the carcass value category with an animal hanging a USDA Choice, Yield Grade 2 carcass with a 16.90 square inch ribeye and 1,048 pound hot carcass weight for a total carcass value index of 1,124.They also had the runner-up Balancer Steer in the carcass value category with an animal hanging USDA Choice, Yield Grade 3 carcass with a 16.65 square inch ribeye and a 1,046 pound hot carcass weight. In total, Eagle Pass Ranch took home $1,500 in prize money.

In the Gelbvieh division, CKS Gelbvieh, Collins, Iowa, was the winner, owning the steer for top average daily gain and carcass value indexing steer as well as champion pen and won $1,000 in prize payouts. CKS Gelbvieh’s winning steer in the average daily gain category gained 4.40 pounds per day. Their top carcass steer had a carcass value index of 996.92, a hot carcass weight of 936 pounds, and a ribeye area of 16.22 square inches. This steer also hung a Yield Grade 2 and USDA Choice carcass. CKS Gelbvieh also owned the champion pen of Gelbvieh steers with a total carcass value index of 2,913.26.

To view full results, including all closeout data, please visit the projects page under the Foundation section of www.gelbvieh.org.

The American Gelbvieh Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation which helps support member education, youth development and research for the American Gelbvieh Association.

The American Gelbvieh Association is a progressive beef cattle breed association representing 1,000 members and approximately 40,000 cows assessed annually in a performance-oriented total herd reporting system.

###

BROOMFIELD, CO – American Gelbvieh Association President Scott Starr and the Board of Directors would like to announce Megan Slater as its interim executive director.

Slater has been with the American Gelbvieh Association (AGA) since 2014 and has most recently held the position of director of operations and public relations. In her time at the AGA, Slater has played a vital role in maintaining the Gelbvieh message through marketing efforts and membership communication, office operations, and the planning of the AGA National Convention.

“For the past seven months, Megan has done an impressive job of running the AGA by exhibiting organization, knowledge, and ability,” Starr said. “The board feels we have one of the bright upcoming individuals in the beef industry and are honored to have her on the AGA team.”

In her role as interim executive director, Slater will continue to lead the AGA staff in accomplishing the goals of the AGA’s Meeting Modern Industry Demands Strategic Plan.

Slater is a graduate of Colorado State University (CSU) with a bachelor’s degree in animal science and minor in business administration. Through her involvement at CSU and her time at AGA, Slater has gained valuable beef industry and business experience.

“I am excited for this new opportunity with the AGA and look forward to continuing to grow the Association and the Gelbvieh and Balancer® breed’s market share within the beef industry,” Slater said. “It’s an honor to continue to work with AGA members and Gelbvieh and Balancer stakeholders in this new role.”

Slater can be reached at the AGA office at 303-465-2333 or at megans@gelbvieh.org.

The American Gelbvieh Association is a progressive beef cattle breed association representing 1,100 members and approximately 40,000 cows assessed annually in a performance-oriented total herd reporting system.

###

Note to Editors: A high-resolution press quality photo is available by contacting Kelsi Christian, AGA multimedia coordinator, at kelsi@gelbvieh.org or 303-465-2333.

The American Gelbvieh Association is pleased to announce and welcome Taylor Buckley as the new data and member services coordinator.

Buckley will assist AGA members and customers with DNA testing, as well as all aspects of the AGA Online Registry Service. She will also play a role in the AGA’s member education and communications team.

“I am very excited to begin my career at the AGA; my combined passion for the beef industry and background in agricultural communications falls directly in line with the association’s purpose of serving its members and customers,” says Buckley. “I look forward to meeting the members and assisting the association in every aspect that I can.”

Buckley grew up in the beef industry in Franktown, Colorado. Throughout her time in high school she was actively involved in 4-H and FFA at the local and state region. Buckley graduated from West Texas A&M University (WTAMU) in May 2018 where she received her bachelor’s degree in agricultural communications as well as a minor in animal science. During her college career, she expanded her communication skills by working at the Beef Carcass Research Center at WTAMU as office manager. Buckley also completed internships at Friona Industries and Superior Livestock Auction, which helped develop her knowledge of the industry.

“We are fortunate for the opportunity to add Taylor to the AGA staff. She brings a well-suited set of talents to assist our members and commercial customers and will grow to be an integral part of the AGA’s commitment to serving the modern beef industry,” says Megan Slater, AGA director of operations and public relations.

Buckley started at the American Gelbvieh Association headquarters in Broomfield, Colorado, on June 4. She can be reached at the AGA office at 303-465-2333 or via email at taylorb@gelbvieh.org.

The American Gelbvieh Association is a progressive beef cattle breed association representing 1,000 members and approximately 40,000 cows assessed annually in a performance-oriented total herd reporting system.

###

Note to Editors: A high-resolution press quality photo is available by contacting Megan Slater, American Gelbvieh Association director of public relations, at megans@gelbvieh.org or 303-465-2333.

Results of the Second Annual American Gelbvieh Foundation (AGF) Steer Challenge and Scale and Rail Sire-Identified Carcass Contest were announced during the 47th Annual American Gelbvieh Association National Convention awards banquet on Saturday, December 9, 2017. Breeders from Iowa and Nebraska took home top honors with prize payouts totaling $6,950.

The AGF continues to help advance the Gelbvieh breed through its support of research and development. For this reason, the AGF launched the Steer Challenge and Scale and Rail Sire-Identified Carcass Contest in 2016. These two projects together provide the information and funds necessary to generate datasets to advance Gelbvieh and Balancer® carcass merit.

The AGF Steer Challenge was a competition amongst individual Gelbvieh and Balancer-influenced steers in which the judging criteria focused on average daily gain in the feedyard, carcass value and overall top value animal, which combined average daily gain and carcass value. The Steer Challenge gives an opportunity for participants to donate a steer to the AGF. All proceeds from the donation go toward research and development within the Gelbvieh breed. The AGF Sire-Identified Carcass Contest judges steers, which were in a group of three or more animals from the same contemporary group, on these same qualities and also awarded a top-performing pen. In its second year, ten ranches participated with a total of 103 head on feed at Roode Feedyard in Fairbury, Nebraska. All steers were harvested and values were calculated in July 2017.

Flying H Genetics, Arapahoe, Nebraska, placed high in both the AGF Steer Challenge and Balancer division of the Scale and Rail Contest and took home a total of $3,725 in prize payouts. Flying H Genetics’ winning steer, a Red Angus-sired Balancer, in the AGF Steer Challenge swept the division taking home top average daily gain, top carcass value, and top value animal. The same steer also took home top accolades in the Balancer division of the Scale and Rail Contest including highest average daily gain at 5.93 pounds per day, top carcass value at $1,179 with a 1,118 pound hot carcass weight and a 17.10 square inch ribeye. This steer also took home top value Balancer animal with a value of $1,185, USDA Yield Grade 3 and a quality grade of USDA Choice.

Flying H Genetics also owned the champion pen of Balancer steers with an average value of $1,119, average USDA Yield Grade 3 and quality grade of USDA Choice. Flying H Genetics owned the steer that took second place for average daily gain in the Balancer division. This Red Angus-sired Balancer steer had an average daily gain of 5.75 pounds per day.

Eagle Pass Ranch, Highmore, South Dakota, owned the steer which took second place for top carcass in the Balancer division with a carcass value of $1,124, hot carcass weight of 1,049 pounds, and a 13.5 square inch ribeye. This same steer also placed second for top value animal with a total value of $1,129, USDA Yield Grade 3 and quality grade of USDA Choice. This steer was sired by EGL Barrett B050. Eagle Pass Ranch also owned the reserve champion pen of Balancer steers with an average value of $1,083, average USDA Yield Grade of 3, and average quality grade of USDA Choice.

In the Gelbvieh division, CKS Gelbvieh, Collins, Iowa, was a notable winner owning the steer for top average daily gain, top carcass and top value steer as well as champion pen and taking home $2,175 in prize payouts. CKS Gelbvieh’s top carcass steer had a carcass value of $1,151, a hot carcass weight of 1,089 pounds, and a ribeye area of 14 square inches. This steer also had a USDA Yield Grade 3, and quality grade of USDA Choice. This steer’s total value was the highest in the Gelbvieh division at $1,156 and was sired by BNC At Ease A357. CKS Gelbvieh also owned the champion pen of Gelbvieh steers with the average value of the pen being $1,126, average USDA Yield Grade 4.0 and average quality grade of USDA Choice.

CKS Gelbvieh also owned the steer that took second place for top carcass in the Gelbvieh division with a carcass value of $1,125, hot carcass weight of 1,067 pounds, and a 17 square inch ribeye. This same steer also placed second for top value animal with a total value of $1,130, USDA Yield Grade 3 and quality grade of USDA Choice. This steer was sired by DCH Hille X102.

Blackhawk Cattle Co., Oregon, Illinois, owned the reserve champion pen of Gelbvieh steers with an average value of $1,105, average USDA Yield Grade 3, and average quality grade of USDA Choice+.

To view full results, including all steers close-out data, please visit the projects page under the Foundation section of www.gelbvieh.org.

###

Results of the inaugural American Gelbvieh Foundation (AGF) Steer Challenge and Scale and Rail Sire-Identified Carcass Contest were announced during the 46th Annual American Gelbvieh Association National Convention awards banquet on Friday, December 3. Breeders from Kansas, Nebraska, and Illinois took home top honors with prize payouts totaling $7,900.

The AGF continues to help advance the Gelbvieh breed through its support of research and development. For this reason, the AGF launched its first ever Steer Challenge and Scale and Rail Sire-Identified Carcass Testing Contest. These two projects together provide the information and funds necessary to generate datasets to advance Gelbvieh and Balancer® carcass merit.

The AGF Steer Challenge was a competition amongst individual Gelbvieh and Balancer-influenced steers in which the criteria focused on average daily gain in the feedyard, carcass value and overall top value animal, which combined average daily gain and carcass value. The Steer Challenge gives an opportunity for participants to donate a steer to the AGF. All proceeds from the donation go toward research and development within the Gelbvieh breed. The AGF Sire-Identified Carcass Testing Contest awarded steers, which were in a group of three or more animals from the same contemporary group, on these same qualities and also awarded a top-performing pen. In its first year, nine ranches participated with a total of 35 animals on feed at Roode Feedyard in Fairbury, Nebraska. All steers were harvested and values were calculated in July 2016.

LeDoux Ranch, Agenda, Kansas, placed high in both the AGF Steer Challenge and Balancer division of the Scale and Rail Contest and took home a total of $3,800 in prize payouts. LeDoux’s winning steer in the AGF Steer Challenge took home top carcass value and top value animal; this steer was sired by SGRI Jacked Up Z704. The same steer also took home top accolades in the Balancer division of the Scale and Rail Contest including second highest average daily gain at 4.27 pounds per day, top carcass value at $1,116 with a 1,060 pound hot carcass weight and a 15.3 square inch ribeye. This steer also took home top value Balancer animal with a value of $1,120, USDA Yield Grade 3.8 and a quality grade of USDA Choice-.

Flying H Genetics, Arapahoe, Nebraska, owned the Balancer steer with the highest average daily gain, gaining 4.56 pounds per day. This steer was sired by FHG Flying H Professor 22W.

Warner Beef Genetics, Arapahoe, Nebraska, owned the steer which took second place for top carcass in the Balancer division with a carcass value of $1,114, hot carcass weight of 1,055 pounds, and a 12.5 square inch ribeye. This same steer also placed second for top value animal with a total value of $1,117, USDA Yield Grade 3.8 and quality grade of USDA Choice-. This steer was sired by DCSF Post Rock Highly Focused 308Y8. Warner Beef Genetics also owned the champion pen of Balancer steers with an average top value of $1,374, average USDA Yield Grade of 3.5, and average quality grade of USDA Choice-. They took home $1,400 in prize payouts for their steers’ performance in the contests.

In the Gelbvieh division, Blackhawk Cattle Company, Oregon, Illinois, was a notable winner owning the top carcass and top value steer as well as champion pen and taking home $1,600 in prize payouts. Blackhawk Cattle Company’s top carcass steer had a carcass value of $1,057, a hot carcass weight of 994 pounds, and a ribeye area of 13.5 square inches. This steer also had a USDA Yield Grade 3.1, and quality grade of USDA Choice-. This steer’s total value was the highest in the Gelbvieh division at $1,061 and was sired by VRT Lazy TV Sam U451. Blackhawk Cattle Company also owned the champion pen of Gelbvieh steers with the average value of the pen being $1,355, average USDA Yield Grade 3.0 and average quality grade of USDA Choice-.

CKS Gelbvieh, Collins, Iowa, owned the Gelbvieh steer that placed first for average daily gain, gaining 3.99 pounds per day. This steer was sired by TAU Mr Gunnison 230U 110Z.

To view full results, including all steers close-out data, please visit the Projects page under the Foundation section of www.gelbvieh.org.

The NAILE Gelbvieh and Balancer® show took place at the 2016 North American International Livestock Exposition on Tuesday, November 15 in Louisville, Kentucky. Charlie Boyd of Maysville, Kentucky, evaluated the Gelbvieh and Balancer cattle.

The grand champion Gelbvieh female was SKYS BCFG-SKYS Kali 282C, owned by Casey Martin, Oregon, Illinois. This September 17, 2015 daughter of BCFG Butlers Red Oak 908W first claimed the senior heifer calf division.

SBSF Bee Lick Brooke ET was named reserve grand champion Gelbvieh female. Owned by Double Diamond Farms, Cynthiana, Kentucky. This heifer was first named champion senior heifer and is the September 10, 2014 daughter of BCFG Butlers Red Oak 908W.

Grand champion Gelbvieh bull went to GGGE 3G Blood Brother 454B ET, owned by Emily Griffiths, Kendallville, Indiana. This February 24, 2015 son of GGGE 3G Time Machine 758T ET first claimed the two-year old bull division.

Double Diamond Farms, Cynthiana, Kentucky, also owned the reserve grand champion Gelbvieh bull. SSMK Delorean 221C ET is the February 21, 2015 son of GGGE 3G Time Machine 758T ET and came out of the junior bull division.

Grand champion Balancer female was BCFG Butlers 133C, owned by Alexandria Raab, Markle, Indiana. Sired by BCFG Butlers Bismarck 512Z, this heifer was born November 2, 2015 and first claimed the senior heifer calf division.

GHGF Calista 53B was named reserve grand champion Balancer female. Owned by Austin Teeter, Mt. Ulla, North Carolina, this heifer came out of the senior heifer division. She is the November 14, 2014 daughter GHGF Zeus 61Z.

Emily Griffiths, Kendallville, Indiana, swept the Balancer bull division owning the grand champion Balancer bull and reserve grand champion Balancer bull.

Grand champion Balancer bull was GGGE 3G Double Agent 602D, who is the January 6, 2016 son of GGGE 3G Smoke N’ Mirrors. He first came out of junior bull calf division.

The reserve grand champion Balancer bull, GGGE 3G Diamond Mine 680D. He is the March 2, 2016 son of S S Hoover Dam 115B and first claimed the junior yearling bull division.

###

2016 NAILE Gelbvieh and Balancer® Show
November 15, 2016
Louisville, KY
Judge: Charlie Boyd, Maysville, Kentucky

Division Champions and Reserves:

Gelbvieh Champion Spring Heifer Calf
CBX Ms Reflex’s Reflections
Coles Bend Cattle Company, Smiths Grove, Ky.
Sire: JKGF Reflex X4 ET

Gelbvieh Reserve Champion Spring Heifer Calf
BCFG Butlers Ms Dixie 283D
Butler Creek Farms, Milton, Tenn.
Sire: BCFG Butlers Red Oak 908W

Gelbvieh Champion Junior Heifer Calf
Miss Jenj 605D ET
JenJoe Farms, Clinton, Ky.
Sire: ALS Maverick 70T

Gelbvieh Reserve Champion Junior Heifer Calf
CIRS Daiquiri 81YD
Circle S Ranch, Canton, Kan.
Sire: DCSF Post Rock Power Built 37B8

Gelbvieh Champion Senior Heifer Calf
SKYS BCFG-SKYS Kali 282C
Casey Martin, Oregon, Ill.
Sire: BCFG Butlers Red Oak 908W

Gelbvieh Reserve Champion Senior Heifer Calf
GHGF Zelda’s Coreen 20C4 ET
Justin Teeter, Mt. Ulla, N.C.
Sire: FMGF Blue’s Impact 001X

Gelbvieh Champion Intermediate Heifer Champion
MMGG Gentle G Ms Fancy Oak 78C
Brandon Fawbush, London, Ky.
Sire: BCFG Butlers Black Oak 534Z

Gelbvieh Champion Junior Heifer
JTPF Blue Well Addie 193C
Blue Well Farms, Lebanon, Tenn.
Sire: JKGF Reflex 4X ET

Gelbvieh Champion Senior Heifer
SBSF Bee Lick Brooke ET
Double Diamond Farms, Cynthiana, Ky.
Sire: BCFG Butlers Red Oak 908W

Grand Champion Gelbvieh Female
SKYS BCFG-SKYS Kali 282C
Casey Martin, Oregon, Ill.
Sire: BCFG Butlers Red Oak 908W

Reserve Grand Champion Gelbvieh Female
SBSF Bee Lick Brooke ET
Double Diamond Farms, Cynthiana, Ky.
Sire: BCFG Butlers Red Oak 908W

Gelbvieh Champion Spring Bull Calf
GGGE 3G Day Money 673D
Emily Griffiths, Kendallville, Ind.
Sire: GGGE 3G Bootlegger 439B

Gelbvieh Reserve Champion Spring Bull Calf
OHMV Double Time D411
Hunter Sheeley, Hillsboro, Ohio
Sire: GGGE 3G Time Machine 758T ET

Gelbvieh Champion Junior Bull Calf
GGGE 3G Die Cast 637D
Emily Griffiths, Kendallville, Ind.
Sire: GGGE 3G Zip Line 266Z

Gelbvieh Champion Senior Bull Calf
PMFG Challenger 556C
Pleasant Meadows Farm, Glasgow, Ky.
Sire: RWG Traction 7412

Gelbvieh Reserve Champion Senior Bull Calf
JTPF Blue Well Duke 331C
Blue Well Farms, Lebanon, Tenn.
Sire: JDPD Astro 407S

Gelbvieh Champion Intermediate Bull
SDSC Mr. Handy Man 01C
Karen Eby, Duncan, S.C.
Sire: CRAN Buddy Boy T729

Gelbvieh Champion Junior Bull
SSMK Delorean 221C ET
Double Diamond Farms, Cynthiana, Ky.
Sire: GGGE 3G Time Machine 758T ET

Gelbvieh Reserve Champion Junior Bull
GHGF Hired Gun C56
Austin Teeter, Mt. Ulla, N.C.
Sire: FMGF Blue’s Impact 001X

Gelbvieh Champion Two-Year Old Bull
GGGE 3G Blood Brother 454B ET
Emily Griffiths, Kendallville, Ind.
Sire: GGGE 3G Time Machine 758T ET

Grand Champion Gelbvieh Bull
GGGE 3G Blood Brother 454B ET
Emily Griffiths, Kendallville, Ind.
Sire: GGGE 3G Time Machine 758T ET

Reserve Grand Champion Gelbvieh Bull
SSMK Delorean 221C ET
Double Diamond Farms, Cynthiana, Ky.
Sire: GGGE 3G Time Machine 758T ET

Balancer Champion Spring Heifer Calf
CPSX Schilling’s Dreams of Cogan ET
Cogan Schilling, Edson, Kan.
Sire: Dameron C-5 American Classic

Balancer Reserve Champion Spring Heifer Calf
GGGE 3G Cowgirl Dixie 6102D
Emily Griffiths, Kendallville, Ind.
Sire: S S Hover Dam B115

Balancer Champion Junior Heifer Calf
KJSG MV Miss Delilah 401D
Maple Valley Gelbvieh, Hillsboro, Ohio
Sire: C-Bar Evolution 107Y

Balancer Reserve Champion Junior Heifer Calf
JTPF Blue Well Daisy 337D
Blue Well Farms, Lebanon, Tenn.
Sire: Red Lazy MC CC Detour 2W

Balancer Champion Senior Heifer Calf
BCFG Butlers 133C
Alexandria Raab, Markle, Ind.
Sire: BCFG Butlers Bismarck 512Z

Balancer Reserve Champion Senior Heifer Calf
BCFG Butlers 132C
Alexandria Raab, Markle, Ind.
Sire: BCFG Butlers Cherokee 504T ET

Balancer Champion Intermediate Heifer
HYBD Scharpe Forever Lady Cecilia
Scharpe Angus, Arlington, Minn.
Sire: CCRO Carolina Exclusive 1230Y

Balancer Champion Junior Heifer
RAAB BCFG Ms. Star 13C
Karen Eby, Duncan, S.C.
Sire: SAV Brilliance 8077

Balancer Reserve Champion Junior Heifer
SSMK Benita 13C
Double Diamond Farms, Cynthiana, Ky.
Sire: SAV Bismarck 5682

Balancer Champion Senior Heifer
GHGF Calista 53B
Austin Teeter, Mt. Ulla, N.C.
Sire: GHGF Zeus 61Z

Grand Champion Balancer Female
BCFG Butlers 133C
Alexandria Raab, Markle, Ind.
Sire: BCFG Butlers Bismarck 512Z

Reserve Grand Champion Balancer Female
GHGF Calista 53B
Austin Teeter, Mt. Ulla, N.C.
Sire: GHGF Zeus 61Z

Balancer Champion Spring Bull Calf
GGGE 3G Diamond Mine 680D
Emily Griffiths, Kendallville, Ind.
Sire: SS Hover Dam 115B

Balancer Champion Junior Bull Calf
GGGE 3G Double Agent 602D
Emily Griffiths, Kendallville, Ind.
Sire: GGGE 3G Smoke ‘N Mirrors

Balancer Champion Senior Bull Calf
SDSC Mr. Charming 02C
Karen Eby, Duncan, S.C.
Sire: SAV Bismarck 5682

Balancer Champion Junior Bull
GGGE 3G Centurion E527C
Emily Griffiths, Kendallville, Ind.
Sire: Schiefelbein Effective 61

Grand Champion Balancer Bull
GGGE 3G Double Agent 602D
Emily Griffiths, Kendallville, Ind.
Sire: GGGE 3G Smoke ‘N Mirrors

Reserve Grand Champion Balancer Bull
GGGE 3G Diamond Mine 680D
Emily Griffiths, Kendallville, Ind.
Sire: SS Hoover Dam 115B

The 46th Annual American Gelbvieh Association National Convention will be held November 30 through December 2, 2016 in Lincoln, Nebraska. The event themed “Meeting Modern Industry Demands” is focused on improving profitability in all sectors of the beef industry. This year’s convention will be held at the Lincoln Marriott Cornhusker Hotel in the heart of Lincoln. The title sponsor for the event is GeneSeek®, a Neogen company.

The AGA convention will include events such as AGA committee meetings, the AGA annual membership meeting, kick-off reception, awards banquet, the second annual Cattlemen’s Profit Roundup and much more.

Cattlemen’s Profit Roundup is an educational symposium focused on beef industry profitability. The symposium is free to attend and is open to all producers and beef industry professionals. Cattlemen’s Profit Roundup will feature industry leading speakers from CattleFax, the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and Oklahoma State University. The event is being held on Thursday, December 1, starting with a free lunch at noon with the program beginning at 1:00 p.m. All are also invited to join in the Bull Pen session starting at 6:00 p.m. at Blue Blood Brewing Company in Lincoln. The Bull Pen session will allow for attendees to have casual interaction with the symposium speakers. No registration is necessary for the Cattlemen’s Profit Roundup.

Online registration for the three day convention is available by visiting  www.gelbvieh.org.