As showmen and women, I'm sure you've all heard someone tell you that show cattle aren't worth their weight and that the show industry is just too extreme in their trends. I've been told that we make 'em too big, too soggy, too hairy, the list goes on and on! And for some commercial settings, I couldn't agree more, but there is value in the show industry. In fact, there is lots!
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At the end of the day, we are all still cattle ranchers and have
the same common goals in mind |
I have to opportunity to talk to hundreds of commercial ranchers and let me tell you, I get some funny looks when I tell them that I show cattle. I've actually had some good arguments about the virtues of each type of cattle and why they are valuable. Now, anyone that knows me, knows that I am a die hard fan of hair cattle. I know it's impractical and makes them hot and usually reduces gains, but they are just so beautiful when they are all fit and clipped! And I personally have a lot of fun working hair everyday. That being said, there are two things the show industry is excellent at, involving youth, and being innovative.
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| I'm just partial to show cattle! |
We all know as ranchers that our industry is lacking youth. As the average age of ranchers hovers around 57, and growing older, it is imperative we start getting youth interested in agriculture. The show industry is helping us to do that by offering monetary incentives that are far better than what the market has to offer, and by giving opportunities to urban youth that might otherwise never become involved. I am a product of the show industry, as I was a suburban kid with a passion for horses that has since led me into the field of agriculture. I can honestly say that I would not be where I am today if it weren't for programs like 4-H and FFA.
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Show cattle require several hours of work per day to
get them ready, including rinsing, blowing & halter work |
More importantly, the show industry is innovative and willing to try new products and new ideas, far more than that of the commercial industry. That is fact seldom few can argue over. Only about 3% of the cattle in the U.S. are artificially inseminated, and the majority of those 3% are show cattle. Technologies like embryo transfer, and cloning are also being pioneered and fostered within the show industry and are allowed to show their value on a large scale. In addition, many supplemental feed products get their foothold here before moving on to production cattle.
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Most show cattle are A.I.'d which allows quick increase
in the quality of the genetic pool |
So, when somebody tries to tell you that show cattle are just too extreme and that you are slightly crazy, politely agree, but then tell them that we are driving the future of beef!!
With Love From the Heart of Beef,
Alicia
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