A Cattle Feeder's Perspective:
Supplying Cattle That Work for All Segments
by Kindra Gordon, field editor, Angus Journal
RAPID CITY, S.D. (Dec. 4, 2013) — Tom Brink of Colorado-based Five Rivers Cattle Feeders sees opportunities ahead for the beef industry — particularly for cow-calf producers. That said, he encouraged producers to focus on supplying feeders and packers with healthy calves that will gain and grade. “Everybody wins with good cattle,” he said as he addressed attendees at the Range Beef Cow Symposium in Rapid City on Dec. 4.
Tom Brink of Colorado-based Five Rivers Cattle Feeders sees opportunitites ahead for the beef industry.
Regarding selection, he advised producers to balance the necessary ranch traits with above-average growth and carcass value potential.
By doing things right, Brink said cow-calf producers can make extremely good premiums on the grid. He said, “Today I know people who are disappointed if they don’t make over $100-per-head premium.”
Looking to the next five years, Brink shared with attendees four “game changers” that he sees on the horizon. Those include:
- Exceptional cow-calf profits. He estimates the potential returns could be $250 to $500 per head over cash costs.
- Shrinking feedlot and packing capacity.
- Mouth-watering success with timed artificial insemination (AI) programs. Brink notes there is amazing opportunity for those willing to use this technology.
- Major impact from high-end genetics and the advent of programs built on them. Brink sees grids being used to purchase feeder cattle and reward the exceptionally valuable cattle.
In closing, Brink encouraged cow-calf producers to make the most of the times ahead, while also thinking about the entire beef business and creating value for all segments. As well, he encouraged producers to help a young person get established in the cow business to ensure the industry’s viability for the future.
Brink spoke Wednesday at RBCS XXIII. Visit the Newsroom at www.rangebeefcow.com/2013 to view his PowerPoint or listen to nis presentation.
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The RBCS is a biennial educational symposium offering practical production management information. It is sponsored by the Cooperative Extension Service and animal science departments of the University of Wyoming, South Dakota State University, Colorado State University and the University of Nebraska.
Comprehensive coverage of the symposium is available online at www.rangebeefcow.com. Compiled by the Angus Journal editorial team, the site is made possible through sponsorship of LiveAuctions.tv and the cooperation of the host committee.
Editor’s Note: This article was written under contract or by staff of the Angus Journal. To request reprint permission and guidelines, contact Shauna Rose Hermel, editor, at 816-383-5270.
