|
Our cow herd has been closed
to new females for more than forty years. This has allowed us to deal with
known characteristics when selecting for fertility and sound
body structure. These qualities have been our top priorities in an
effort to make our cattle as productive and problem free as
possible. Our program includes pelvic scoring, which we began in
the middle 1970s; and attention to udder conformation. Our second
consideration has been to increase feed efficiency and rate of gain.
All of our cattle have been weighed, graded, and tested since 1968. We
focus on high weaning weights without creep. Finally, body
length, muscle, and consistent type are considered. Uniformity
and predictability are major traits.
|
803 is one our four
best producers, with an MPPA of 102. Her calves typically have good bone
and sound structure. |
305
is a twelve year old low-birthweight dam. We are using one of her top
bull calves, 300. She is an intelligent, assertive cow, but
very gentle with people.
|
One of our prettiest cows,
615 is a consistent producer of quality calves. She is one of
Marie's favorites.
|
218 is a big efficient cow
with a clean attached udder. Out of a dependable cow who has
produced herd sire prospects, her sire is Jackpot Blaze.
Pretty 218 with her calf in
September, 2006.
 |
919, another dependable and
great producing cow, with her 2006 calf. |
 |
214 is a deep bodied lengthy
cow who consistently gives us growthy calves. |
THE INFLUENCE OF A GREAT
DAM: In 1972, with the help of Tom Alford, Neer Hereford Ranch embarked
upon a project of showing a few of that year's progeny. . Touring through county fairs
in Madera, Fresno, Mariposa, Lassen, Siskiyou and Modoc Counties, the Neer
calves and heifers garnered a number of firsts and championship ribbons.
 This
heifer, "Grace Builder 123" won first place in every show she entered.
In addition she was given championship ranking in several shows and Best of
Show over all classes and breeds at the Tulelake Fair. She became an
important influence in the Neer Hereford ranch herd, producing several
fertile daughters and efficient beefy sons. Her influence is still felt.
At the halter is Tom Alford,
showman and friend.
Dean is VERY young in this
1973 photo. (He is also 6'3" making this good sized 1972 heifer appear
smaller than she was.
American
Hereford Association Dams of Distinction |
