Picking a partner

I visited with Paul the other day about the selection process. As a beef cattle specialist for the brand, he works closely with feedlots and ranchers to help them profitably meet the demands of a high-quality marketplace through breeding and managing Angus cattle to their utmost potential.

He told me the right feedlot can do many things for producers that culminate in long-term success.

Paul says, “A quality feedlot provides the producer an extension of time to capture genetic advantages of the calf crop while seizing opportunities to mitigate risk and lock in profits. The right feeder will also provide information back to the producer that enhances genetic selection as well as health and nutrition decisions at the ranch for continual improvement.”

His No. 1 tip? Work with someone you can trust who also continues to learn the best practices as they evolve.

“Every feedlot is going to have some ups and downs over the years, but you want to do business with someone who is striving for excellence and treats the customer as a partner,” he says.

It’s also important not to let proximity be the deciding factor. Conduct internet research and make phone calls to narrow down your choices, and then follow up with in-person visits to the top contenders until you find the feeder who is most qualified to help you reach your goals.

When it comes to your involvement in the next step — whether that’s through partnering or retained ownership — knowledge is power. Get references from other quality-focused customers and Extension specialists. Never be shy in asking questions and remember spending time answering them is part of a manager’s job. If he’s not willing to take the time getting to know you, your cattle and your needs, you don’t want to do business there.

Once you’ve made your choice, it’s important to have a little patience. There’s a chance your cattle won’t do as well as you may have hoped right away, but this type of marketing is for those focused on long-term improvement. Compare calf performance over time. If the partnership continues, it will help improve genetics and management.

-Katrina

Katrina Huffstutler is a freelance writer based in Electra, Texas. She’s a frequent contributor to the Black Ink team and lover of functional cattle and quality beef.

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