LIMOUSIN TODAY February2019_LimToday_WEB | Page 57

From the Field SELLING 35 LOTS 20 Select Bulls & 15 Elite Females MARCH 10, 2019 Laclede County Fairgrounds - Lebanon, MO SALE MANAGEMENT: MC Marketing Management Kiley McKinna (402) 350-3447 SALE CONSULTANTS: Grassroots Consulting, Mark Smith, (515) 229-5227 Helton Consulting, Bill Helton, (256) 962-0256 AUCTIONEER: Ronn Cunningham (918)629-9382 starting point. EPDs such as stayability, calving ease and carcass EPDs can be very helpful in narrowing the field. Many breeders now bolster the value of these traits by offering ultrasound data for carcass traits and/or genomic- enhanced EPDs. More specifically, ultrasound data provides a physical measurement of marbling, back-fat and ribeye area, while genomically enhancing EPDs increases the accuracy of information an EPD provides. EPDs, ultrasound data and individual traits are exceptionally useful tools, but only if they are understood, leveraged and used correctly. A detailed explanation of EPDs, ultrasound data and genomic-enhanced EPDs can be found on the NALF website. In addition to the providing an explanation of these data points, NALF also has the 26525 Hwy. AA Lebanon, MO 65536 TERRY & NANCY GRAVEN (417) 594-0257 cell | [email protected] JOSH GLENDENNING, ranch manager (417) 664-0913 cell | [email protected] ability to help compare potential sire EPDs to breed averages and trends through the NALF sire summary. This can be found under the management tab on the NALF home page. If you have further questions, the NALF staff and I are always available to assist you. Genetics and performance are only part of the equation that makes this decision so important. The services that a seedstock program offers their customers is just as valuable as the genetics they provide. The purchase of a bull is typically one of the larger yearly financial investments a producer makes, so it deserves serious deliberation and study. Take the time to learn about programs what they have to offer compared to others. Is it a marketing avenue for commercial heifers sired by their bulls? Or is it JACK. VICKY. JOSH & KAYLA. JASE & SHAWNA. JAMYE. 24300 McDonald Dr. | Lebanon, MO 65536 [email protected] | www.jbarjlimousin.com Jack (417) 588-6121 Josh (417) 664-0913 | Jase (417) 664-1186 PHIL LAMKINS 16961 Oleander Lane | Lebanon, MO 65536 (417) 532-5755 | (417) 718-8590 another look from a calf buyer because they trust the breeder’s genetics? Talk with past customers about buying experiences and ask them questions. What would they change? What did they appreciate? Does the breeder provide winter care and/or delivery? All these questions help you determine what programs are “good” to do business with and what programs are “great.” In closing, the process of choosing your desired genetics and program to direct your operation is exhilarating and daunting. But by reviewing information and utilizing tools from NALF, I am sure your goals will be met using high- quality Limousin and Lim-Flex genetics. Good Luck and God Bless! LIMOUSIN Today | 55