West Branch, MI — Five Michigan producers, Darren Bernard, Marty Galbraith, Jim Redmond, John Scaedig and Chuck Preston sold 223 head of calves age and source verified with the American Angus Association. In the 400 to 500 pound weight group, there was a $.15 per pound advantage and in the 500 to 600 pound weight range age and source verified cattle averaged $.03 more than non age and source cattle.
The strong demand for age and source verified cattle through programs such as American Angus Association Angus Source and Gateway programs in Michigan continues to be seen. Beginning in 2010, one “cutting edge” producer participated and saw excellent demand for feeder calves through the West Branch sale. This led to multiple producers participating in the following years.
With feeder calves selling at an all time high in general, the 2012 West Branch Sale Report is a testimony to the program benefits. A recent survey of West Branch Sale Buyers reinforced the demand for age and source verified cattle and the willingness to pay a premium. Bob Zellmer, who serves on the Michigan Angus Association Board of Directors, says, “In today’s cattle business of high input costs and slim margins, how can you afford not to take advantage of these programs? I urge all producers to participate. This is a great way to market your cattle and build relationships with buyers that will have a lasting effect.”
Times are good, but what happens if prices fall? These programs have staying power to maximize your earnings. Regarding cost and documentation, Jim Redmond, an Angus Source participant recent stated, “the cost of tagging was competitive if you consider the cost of using any other version of RFID tag system”, and he continues, “the paperwork was easy.”
If you’re looking for a place to market your calves, West Branch Sale is a great venue to assist you. Contact Kevin Small at 989-848-5641 or Marty Galbraith at 989-370-6200, they are always interested in more good calves to add to the sale.
If you are interested in the Angus Source program and would like more information, contact Michigan Angus Association Board Member Bob Zellmer at 269-945-7796 or the American Angus Association at 816-383-5100.
