NEBRASKA CATTLEMAN February 2026 Vol. 82 | Issue 2
BULL SALE There’s nothing like a 44 Farms A PROGRAMto SADDLE UP WITH We invite you to consider being part of Prime Pursuits, a paradigm-changing program with Walmart. Designed to bring together top producers with industry-leading genetics to deliver the best Angus beef to America’s table. To learn more, visit PrimePursuits.com or contact Warren White at 806.414.5858. SPRING BULL SALE • FEBRUARY 28, 2026 • 10:00 AM • CAMERON, TEXAS 700 RANCH-RAISED, PERFORMANCE ANGUS BULLS FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT ONE OF OUR TEAM MEMBERS: Tyler Gray 208.590.6167 Jarrod Payne 308.870.6348 KIEFER PECKHAM 512.705.6633 JEFF CALLAWAY 325.665.2285 TO RECEIVE A SALE BOOK, PLEASE CALL 254.697.4401 OR VISIT 44FARMS.COM
OF FEBRUARY OF DETAILS & CATALOG: NebraskaClassic.org FOLLOW US O: 308-627-7309 | Ronette: 308-627-6385 | Buffalo Co. Fairgrounds | Kearney, NE Providing Opportunities for Cattlemen of All Ages! 2 PM - Friday, February 20 A tremendous set of breds and opens will sell! 10 AM - Shows Start 5 PM - Social (Cattle Stalls) 6 PM - Ranch Rodeo 12 PM - Panel Discussion “Five Star Plan to Build Your Cow Herd” Sales Follow Immediately SHOW EVENT 3-DAY TRADE Tremendous trade show with something for the entire family! BRING YOUR FAMILY & ENJOY THE EVENT! FINCH BULL 6N INSIGHT Big time herd sire. Insight son with great balance, look and power. Add value to any purebred or commercial operation. Don’t miss this ½ blood Simmental in Kearney! LIMOUSIN FEATURE ¾ Limousin powerhouse bull sired by Boss Lake Red Eye 207K. Complete package! Study the paper on this guy NXM339309. 39N MISS MAN O’WAR Tremendous opportunity with this April Purebred Simmental heifer! Simmental Jr. Nationals will be in Nebraska this summer. Remember the NCC Scholarship Award Program.
6 NEBRASKA CATTLEMAN February 2026 THE ONLY PUBLICATION DEDICATED TO THE NEBRASKA CATTLE INDUSTRY. NEBRASKA CATTLEMAN February 2026 Vol. 82 | Issue 2 REGULARS Insights ........................................8 Ruminations .............................10 Consider This ...........................37 NC Foundation.......................... 92 MARC .........................................96 USMEF .....................................100 Nebraska Beef Council .......... 104 NC Partners ............................. 108 Boots on the Ground .............109 Sale & Event Calendar............110 Advertiser Index...................... 113 FEATURES PRODUCTION Integrating Reproductive Technologies in Cow-Calf Operations .................................12 A look at practical strategies for integrating reproductive technologies to enhance herd efficiency and profitability. The Other AI ..........................................................................................................................18 What artificial intelligence means for the beef industry. Late Gestational Undernutrition....................................................................................... 24 A look at how nutrient restriction during pregnancy can have long-lasting effects on calves. Understanding Cattle Enterprise Budgets.......................................................................42 Using cost-of-production information to make management decisions. Building Trust and Opportunity Through Direct-to-Consumer Beef Marketing..... 52 Meet Nebraska beef producers who are finding a competitive edge by developing niche offerings that align with consumer preferences. PEOPLE Nebraska Cattlemen Visit Portugal................................................................................... 30 NC Past President Brenda Masek shares highlights from the 2025 Nebraska Cattlemen international tour. POLICY Producers Need Certainty...................................................................................................74 U.S. Rep. Adrian Smith (R-Neb.) shares about his commitment to ensure federal policy delivers as much certainty as possible for producers. PERSPECTIVES Labor Landscape .................................................................................................................36 Navigating the ever-changing labor market in the ag industry. Beef-on-Dairy Goes Mainstream ...................................................................................... 48 A look at how beef-on-dairy has moved from a niche breeding strategy to a structural component of the U.S. beef supply. PAST Foundation of Objective Selection Tools.......................................................................... 62 Meet some of the men who are largely responsible for the development of today’s genetic predictions. SPECIAL TO THIS ISSUE Nebraska Cattlemen Convention Highlights................................................................... 76 Nebraska Cattlemen Convention Sponsors.....................................................................90 Manuscripts and advertisements are welcome. Nebraska Cattlemen reserves the right to edit and refuse advertisements. Readers are welcome to submit letters to the editor. Full name and address of writer must accompany all letters. Letters are accepted with the understanding that they may be condensed to fit the magazine format and edited for accuracy and clarity. Letters contain the opinion of the writer and not that of the Nebraska Cattlemen. You can get Nebraska Cattleman via email. Receive each issue even before the Post O ce ships the printed edition. Just send an email to us at NCmag@necattlemen.org and put “Email NC Magazine” in the subject line. We assure you we will not share your email address with anyone! ON THE COVER: This cow and calf are sporting winter white at Rennert Ranch near Elm Creek. Photo courtesy of Kristian Rennert
SCHULER red-angus schulerredangus.com • 308-262-0306 44th Annual Bull Sale March 26, 2026 - Bridgeport, NE Selling 160 Registered Red Angus & Schuler Red Composite Bulls Evaluated for Fertility, Docility & Foot Structure #4803756 Proponent- 1st Sons Sell! 1.15 Marbling (Top 1%) 17 CED to 143 YW Spread Genuine x Confidence Plus #4788450 Augustine 413L- 1st Sons Sell! Schuler Red Composite with single-digit ranks for ProS, HerdBuilder and GridMaster Top 7% WW, YW & ADG Top 8% MARB, 10% REA & 13% YG #4289737 Prime-Time Sell more Prime - Buy Less Feed 18 CED to 137 YW Spread Top 4% Marbling, Best 7% Feed Efficiency Because We Get the Cow Right First! You Get the Right Bull Every Time,
8 NEBRASKA CATTLEMAN February 2026 NC BOARD OF DIRECTORS PRESIDENT: Craig Uden*, Johnson Lake, (308) 325-0285 PRESIDENT-ELECT: Eric Hansen*, North Platte, (308) 530-3899 VICE PRESIDENT: Jaclyn Wilson, Lakeside, (308) 762-3196 PAST PRESIDENT: Richard (Dick) Pierce, Miller, (308) 440-2489 SECRETARY/TREASURER: Laura Field, Lincoln, (402) 326-7743 MEMBER SERVICES VICE CHAIR BY REGION 1 – Bill Baldwin, Mitchell, (308) 641-5011 2 – Lydia O’Brien, Whitman, (308) 546-7349 3 – Vacant 4 – John Kennedy, Primrose, (308) 920-2828 5 – Vacant 6 – Bob Wiseman, Hershey, (308) 530-3137 7 – Todd Schlueter, Blair, (402) 533-3741 8 – Becky Funk, DVM, Lawrence, (308) 360-3179 9 – Vacant COW-CALF COUNCIL CHAIR: Jake Johnson, Hastings, (402) 984-8824 VICE CHAIR: Tyler Pieper, Farnam, (308) 325-9938 FARMER-STOCKMAN COUNCIL CHAIR: Dwight Dam, Hooper, (402) 720-4250 VICE CHAIR: Tony White, Paxton, (308) 520-0064 FEEDLOT COUNCIL CHAIR: Daron Huyser, Lexington, (308) 233-4368 VICE CHAIR: Vacant SEEDSTOCK COUNCIL CHAIR: James Felt, Wakefield, (402) 287-2488 VICE CHAIR: Jeff Pope, Ravenna, (308) 390-0657 ALLIED INDUSTRIES COUNCIL Austin Woltemath, Lincoln, (402) 419-0320 ~ COMMITTEE LEADERSHIP ~ ANIMAL HEALTH AND NUTRITION CHAIR: Jeff Heldt, Scottsbluff, (308) 641-5781 CHAIR-ELECT: Scott Reynolds, DVM, Broken Bow, (308) 870-0970 BRAND AND PROPERTY RIGHTS CHAIR: Matt Blackford, Thedford, (402) 322-1377 CHAIR-ELECT: Robert Star, Hershey, (308) 520-3488 EDUCATION AND RESEARCH CHAIR: Suzanne Jagels, Davenport, (402) 469-3374 CHAIR-ELECT: Kelly Terrell, Gothenburg, (308) 930-2162 MARKETING AND COMMERCE CHAIR: Chance McLean, Stromsburg, (402) 366-2254 CHAIR-ELECT: Marshall Hansen, Omaha, (402) 616-4541 NATURAL RESOURCES AND ENVIRONMENT CHAIR: Sam Drinnin, Grand Island, (402) 910-0233 CHAIR-ELECT: Logan Pribbeno, Imperial, (308) 883-7770 TAXATION CHAIR: Stephen Sunderman, Norfolk, (402) 750-0149 CHAIR-ELECT: Steven Wellman, Syracuse, (402) 269-7024 MEMBER SERVICES CHAIR: Quentin Dailey, Lexington, (308) 293-1144 NEBRASKA LIVESTOCK MARKETING ASSOCIATION REP. Bryce Dibbern, Interior, S.D., (308) 293-7766 UNL EXTENSION REPRESENATIVE Erin Laborie, Beaver City, (419) 494-3872 UNL REPRESENTATIVE Deb VanOverbeke, Lincoln, (402) 714-5879 * member of the Executive & Finance Committee INSIGHTS A WORTHWHILE INVESTMENT JAKE JOHNSON | HASTINGS NC COW-CALF COUNCIL VICE CHAIR Every time I leave a Nebraska Cattlemen (NC) meeting, I am impressed by the volunteers who give their time to this organization. It doesn’t matter if you have a few cows or a lot, run yearlings, background or feed out a few or a bunch, your interests are always being looked out for. There are always beef industry concerns needing to be addressed – from wanting to reduce beef prices for the consumer, to New World screwworm, to the constant push against raising and eating meat, to dietary guidelines. The list goes on. I am so glad that there are organizations like NC and National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) that I can belong to and support. Both organizations are staffed with very knowledgeable, energetic crews driven to protect our industry. Both NC and NCBA are respected by the legislators, senators and congressmen and women who represent not only us, but urban populations as well. We may not always agree, but we can talk. My family has personally experienced the NC staff in action. We would have been lost if it wasn’t for NC and their guidance through the process of submitting a policy regarding driving cattle on rural roads and getting it introduced in the Nebraska Legislature. I am confident that a law will be passed to protect cattlemen. It won’t change what happened, but it will protect us and all Nebraska cattle producers in the future. At the national level, NCBA has a staff who is always watching out for us. Anything you can imagine, from meat labeling, water and environmental issues, endangered species, open and closed borders, taxes, trade and so on. We all know there are well-funded groups of people who don’t believe we should be raising and eating meat. They want us out of business for various reasons. NCBA is constantly watching out for these types of activities. The organization also works to prevent things from happening that we don’t always hear about. I don’t think twice about belonging to NC and NCBA. I know that it is time and money well spent. As individual producers we cannot make much happen, but as an organized, well-respected group, much can be accomplished. If you are not a member or know someone who would benefit from being a member, contact the state office or any current member. We would be glad to have you join us. One thing we do know is that consumers around the world enjoy our product. I think we are set up for a bright future in our industry. As you read this, I am sure many of you are in various stages of your calving season. I sure hope all is well and continues to go well for you. ~NC~ As individual producers we cannot make much happen, but as an organized, well-respected group, much can be accomplished.
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10 NEBRASKA CATTLEMAN February 2026 RUMINATIONS 4611 Cattle Drive, Lincoln, NE 68521 Phone (402) 475-2333 | Fax (402) 475-0822 nc@necattlemen.org | www.nebraskacattlemen.org NEBRASKA CATTLEMEN STAFF EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT | Laura Field lfield@necattlemen.org VICE PRESIDENT OF MARKETING | Jeff Stolle DIRECTOR OF MARKETING | John Roberts DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS AND FEDERAL GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS | Libby Schaneman DIRECTOR OF PRODUCER EDUCATION | Bonita Lederer DIRECTOR OF STATE GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS | Matthew Melchor DIRECTOR OF MEMBER SERVICES | Sawyer Willrett DIRECTOR OF PRODUCER RELATIONS AND ENGAGEMENT | TaraLee Hudson ACCOUNTANT/BOOKKEEPER | Kathy Abel OFFICE MANAGER | Ashley McClinton MEMBERSHIP FIELD STAFF | Hannah Pearson Nebraska Cattleman is published monthly, except for May and July, by the Nebraska Cattlemen, 4611 Cattle Drive, Lincoln, NE 68521 – (402) 475-2333. --------------------------------------------------------------------- MAGAZINE PRODUCTION: CINCHED UP LLC ncmag@necattlemen.org EDITOR | Lisa Bard MANAGING EDITOR | Jessie Topp-Becker COPY EDITOR | Larisa Willrett DESIGNER & MATERIALS COORDINATOR | Megan Field ADMINISTRATION | Leslie McKibben CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Bill Coe | Natalie Jones STATE & REGIONAL ADVERTISING Amber Coleman | (402) 340-1588 acoleman@necattlemen.org NATIONAL ADVERTISING Wendy McFarland | (334) 271-6100 mcfarlandadvantage@gmail.com Working for Nebraska Beef Producers PASTURE TO PLATE TO PLATE NEBRASKA CATTLEMAN VIEW NEBRASKA CATTLEMAN DIGITAL VERSION BY SCANNING THE QR CODE. WORKING FOR BEEF PRODUCERS LAURA FIELD | NC EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT When I attend affiliate meetings across the state, one message comes through loud and clear: legislative advocacy is one of the top reasons beef producers choose to be members of Nebraska Cattlemen (NC). While producers are at home doing what they do best – raising cattle and producing the safest, most wholesome, nutrient-dense beef in the world – the association is working on your behalf to keep unnecessary barriers out of the way. That work is especially important as the Nebraska Unicameral convened in Lincoln in early January for the second regular session of the biennium. As the session gets underway, NC staff, leadership and board of directors are locked in and focused on the issues that matter most to our members. Those priorities don’t come from a vacuum. They come directly from producers. At our annual convention in December, each of the six policy committees met to review existing policies and consider new ones within their respective areas. My role in those meetings often places me at the front of the room – taking notes, facilitating discussion and helping move the agenda forward. It’s a unique vantage point, and one I don’t take lightly. From that seat, I see the process at work. I see heads nodding in agreement, shaking in disagreement and tilting thoughtfully as members consider new ideas. I see camaraderie built on shared experience. I see respectful debate, tough questions and the willingness to speak up – not for personal gain, but for the good of the industry. Some issues are straightforward. Others are complex. Some are deeply personal, while others stem from curiosity and a desire to better understand how policy impacts production agriculture. That diversity of perspectives is a strength. And importantly, nothing is final until the membership votes at the annual meeting. That final vote ensures policies truly reflect the will of the members. Once policies are adopted, I tell our staff and leadership that the association now has its marching orders for the year. The playbook is written and approved. From there, it’s time to go to work. When Nebraska Cattlemen takes a position before the state legislature or shares priorities with Nebraska’s federal delegation, we don’t have to guess where our members stand. We can turn to the page in the policy book and be reminded exactly what producers want and expect us to advocate for on their behalf. Looking out at the membership from my seat at the front of the room gives me a deep appreciation for the grassroots nature of this organization. Ideas start with producers, are shaped through discussion and ultimately set the direction of the association for years to come. Working for beef producers from pasture to plate – that’s more than the Nebraska Cattlemen mission statement. It’s our purpose. It is a responsibility we take seriously. It is an awesome privilege to serve and represent you. ~NC~
12 NEBRASKA CATTLEMAN February 2026 PRODUCTION Integrating Reproductive Technologies in Cow-Calf Operations Practical Strategies for Efficiency and Profitability KACIE MCCARTHY, PH.D. | BEEF COW-CALF SPECIALIST, UNIVERSITY OF NEBRASKA-LINCOLN Reproductive efficiency is a cornerstone of profitability in cow-calf production systems. Technologies such as estrus synchronization, artificial insemination (AI), sexed semen, embryo transfer (ET) and pregnancy detection offer producers tools to improve herd fertility, tighten calving seasons and enhance genetic progress. Despite these benefits, adoption remains relatively low, particularly among smaller operations. For example, the National Animal Health Monitoring System (NAHMS) reported AI use among cow-calf operations increased from 6.1 percent in 1997 to 11.6 percent in 2017, with larger operations adopting AI at higher rates than smaller ones (29.4 percent vs. 8.7 percent). However, estrus synchronization was used by only 7.3 percent of operations in 2017. Adoption depends on factors such as current reproductive performance, facilities, labor availability and expected economic return. Reproductive failure and infertility represent significant economic losses. Cows or heifers that do not become pregnant are often culled, increasing costs and reducing profitability. Technologies that improve conception rates and calving distri-
February 2026 NEBRASKA CATTLEMAN 13 bution can mitigate these losses, resulting in more calves born early in the season, heavier weaning weights and improved lifetime productivity. This article highlights practical strategies for integrating reproductive technologies into cow-calf operations, focusing on candidate selection, synchronization protocols and complementary tools to enhance herd efficiency. Identifying Good Candidates for Reproductive Technologies The primary goal of cow-calf production is to wean a marketable calf from every cow annually. Selecting appropriate candidates for reproductive technologies is essential for achieving optimal conception rates and improving calving distribution. Calving Distribution as a Benchmark Evaluating the proportion of calves born by days 21, 42 and 63 of the calving season provides insight into reproductive performance and the effectiveness of pre-breeding and breeding management. Ideally, most calves should arrive early, reflecting good nutrition, body condition and herd health. Combined with pregnancy rates after a 60- to 70-day breeding season, these metrics help determine readiness for estrus synchronization and AI. Pregnancy rates of 85 percent or higher indicate strong management and readiness for advanced technologies, whereas lower rates suggest underlying management issues that should be addressed first. Criteria for Synchronization Candidates Postpartum cows are considered good candidates for estrus synchronization programs when they meet key criteria: 1. A body condition score (BCS) of at least 5 at calving (scale: 1 = emaciated, 9 = obese). 2. The group to be synchronized should have an average postpartum interval of 40 days or more at the start of the protocol. This does not require every cow to be more than 40 days postpartum, but the group mean should meet this threshold. 3. If the protocol includes controlled internal drug release (CIDR) administration, each cow should be at least 21 days postpartum at the time of insertion. 4. A low incidence of calving difficulty, as dystocia can extend the postpartum interval and delay readiness for breeding. Meeting these benchmarks ensures that synchronization and AI protocols are applied to animals most likely to respond successfully, improving conception rates and tightening calving distribution for greater herd efficiency. Hormonal Toolbox for Estrus Synchronization The bovine estrous cycle, recurring every 21 days, is regulated by hormones that control follicular development and corpus luteum (CL) function. Estrus synchronization manipulates this cycle so females exhibit heat at the same time, reducing heat detection time and improving breeding efficiency by enabling two conception opportunities within the first month. Key Hormones and Their Roles Prostaglandin F2α (PG) regresses the CL and allows heifers and cows to return to estrus. It is effective when administered between days 5 and 17 of the estrous cycle. However, if a cow or heifer does not have a CL (postpartum anestrus cows or prepubertal heifers), they will not respond. Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) stimulates ovulation or synchronizes follicular waves. In females with large, healthy follicles, GnRH can induce ovulation approximately 24 to 30 hours post-injection, often without visible estrus behavior. It may also initiate cycles in anestrous females nearing cyclicity. Progestins, such as CIDR and melengestrol acetate (MGA), mimic progesterone from the corpus luteum to suppress estrus and ovulation by extending the luteal phase. When removed, progesterone levels drop, triggering estrus and ovulation. The CIDR is a T-shaped intravaginal device that delivers a consistent dose of progesterone and is widely used in synchronization protocols. In contrast, MGA is an orally active progestin approved for heifers, is typically fed at 0.5 mg per day for 14 days, followed by a prostaglandin injection 19 days later to synchronize estrus. Protocols can be adapted for natural service, AI, fixed-time AI (FTAI) and sexed semen with details available at Beefrepro.org. Proper hormone handling and adherence to Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) standards are critical for success. Overview of Reproductive Technologies Several technologies complement synchronization to improve reproductive efficiency: Estrus Synchronization The goal is programming the estrous cycle of females so most come into heat and ovulate within a short timeframe, improving breeding efficiency. Normally, estrus occurs randomly over a 21-day cycle, with only about 4.8 percent of females in heat on any given day, leading to roughly 24 percent showing estrus in the first 5 days and 48 percent in 10 days of the breeding season. Synchronization, achieved through hormone protocols, can significantly increase this rate. For example, a one-shot PG protocol for natural service results in about 76 percent of females exhibiting estrus within 5 days, advancing average conception by 3.2 days compared to no synchronization. Another option is administering PG 4 or 5 days after bull turnout, which concentrates estrus during days 6 through 10 of the breeding season and allows bulls to acclimate while breeding 19 to 20 percent of females before synchronization begins. In cases where AI is not possible, CONTINUED ON PAGE 14
14 NEBRASKA CATTLEMAN February 2026 synchronized females can be bred naturally, though protocols differ from AI-focused systems (see Beefrepro.org/natural-service-protocols for details). Heat Detection Accurate estrus detection is essential for AI success. Tools include Estrotect patches, tail chalk, pressure mount detectors, gomer bulls and androgenized cows. These aids improve efficiency and reduce missed heats. Artificial Insemination (AI) Artificial insemination provides access to superior genetics without purchasing high-value bulls, accelerating progress in growth, carcass quality and fertility. Despite benefits, adoption remains low (11.6 percent of U.S. operations). Research shows AI-bred females wean more calves and pounds over their lifetime than those bred by natural service. Additionally, one study noted that AI-bred calves born early in the season averaged 19.4 pounds heavier at weaning. Timed AI (TAI) and Fixed-Time AI (FTAI) TAI combines heat detection with scheduled insemination for nonresponders, reducing labor while improving conception rates. FTAI eliminates heat detection entirely, allowing all INTEGRATING REPRODUCTIVE TECHNOLOGIES CONTINUED FROM PAGE 13 Ultrasound technology is one of the methods used to determine pregnancy status in cattle. FROM FAMILY RANCHES TO YOUR TABLE ITALIAN HERITAGE BREED NO ADDED HORMONES OR ANTIBIOTICS PIEDMONTESE.COM CERTIFIEDPIEDMONTESE
February 2026 NEBRASKA CATTLEMAN 15 CattleZen™ delivers two pheromones in a single dose for fast-acting, long-lasting calming. So you can both breathe easier. NEW Enhanced cattle welfare and safety Patented blend of two pheromones Easy, effective, single-site application Supports performance and profitability Visit CattleZen.com to FEEL THE CALM WITH EVERY BREATH ©2026 Cornerstone Animal Health SUPPRESS THE STRESS females to be inseminated at a set time. While heifer pregnancy rates may be slightly lower than heat detection alone, FTAI offers significant labor savings and herd management advantages. Sexed Semen Sexed semen enables producers to predetermine calf sex, supporting targeted production of replacement heifers or terminal steers. While conception rates may be slightly lower than conventional semen, the ability to manage herd demographics offers long-term economic benefits. For best results, inseminate 16 to 22 hours after estrus detection and use detection aids. Protocol details can be found by scanning the QR code. Embryo Transfer (ET) ET propagates elite genetics by transferring embryos from high-value donor cows into recipient females. This accelerates genetic progress by producing multiple offspring from superior females in a single season. Embryo transfer is especially valuable in seedstock operations or herds focused on rapid genetic advancement. More details on embryo transfer procedures and considerations are available by scanning the QR code. Pregnancy Detection Pregnancy detection is an important management tool that helps producers make timely decisions about culling, rebreeding or marketing. Common methods include rectal palpation, transrectal ultrasonography and blood tests. Palpation and ultrasound provide real-time results starting about 30 days post-conception, with ultrasound offering the added benefit of fetal aging for improved calving management. Blood tests allow early detection (28 to 32 days) but require lab processing and may produce false positives, especially if cows are less than 73 days post-calving. Selecting the right method often involves working with a veterinarian to evaluate options and choose the most cost-effective strategy. Using these tools early can conserve forage, improve calving distribution and enhance reproductive efficiency. Conclusion Reproductive technologies offer powerful tools to improve herd fertility, tighten calving seasons and enhance genetic progress. Success depends on selecting appropriate candidates, implementing protocols correctly and integrating complementary technologies such as pregnancy detection. While adoption requires planning and investment, the longterm benefits – higher weaning weights, improved lifetime productivity and greater profitability – make these strategies a valuable addition to cow-calf operations. ~NC~
16 NEBRASKA CATTLEMAN February 2026 74th Annual Angus Bull Sale Saturday • February 21, 2026• 1 pm (CST) Sale at the Ranch • 7 Miles South of Geddes, SD Watch and Bid Online at Selling 200 Registered Angus Bulls 100 Older Bulls • 100 Long Aged Yearling Bulls • 20 Registered Open Heifers Varilek Spectrum 5021 50 21344417 • 12/15/24 BW WW YW Milk Marb RE $C –.1.7 +69 +120 +32 +.56 +.72 321 Spectrum X Varilek Historic Varilek Jameson 4396 17 21425058 • 8/19/24 BW WW YW Milk Marb RE $C +1.3 +97 +157 +27 +1.29 +.89 364 Jameson X Stronghold Varilek Historic 5036 01 2134441 • 12/15/24 BW WW YW Milk Marb RE $C +.7 +88 +144 +14 +.74 +.49 271 Varilek Historic X Sitz Resilient Varilek Prolific 4237 125 21360492 • 1/22/24 BW WW YW Milk Marb RE $C +2.9 +95 +152 +27 +.62 +1.05 318 Prolific X Broken Bow Varilek Dominance 5166 14 21345612 • 1/08/25 BW WW YW Milk Marb RE $C +3.4 +94 +161 +19 +1.28 +.94 370 Dominance X Discovery Varilek Dominance 4270 02 21360496 • 1/27/24 BW WW YW Milk Marb RE $C +2.9 +98 +161 +26 +1.16 +.63 332 Dominance X Unanimous 29208 374th Avenue • Geddes, SD 57342 www.varilekangus.com Ross Cell • 605-680-1580 Ross & Kelly • 605-337-9896 Mick & Lynn • 605-337-2261 Mick Cell: 605-680-2555 EPD’s as of 12/15/2025 Genetically Enhanced EPD’s
Varilek Top Gun 5095 20 21345597 • 12/19/24 BW WW YW Milk Marb RE $C +1.9 +90 +164 +23 +.85 +.88 304 Top Gun X Growth Fund Varilek HY Point 5127 54 21344429 • 12/21/24 BW WW YW Milk Marb RE $C +.0 +78 +142 +33 +.38 +1.0 317 JK High Point X Thedford Varilek Armstrong 5111 25 21345678 • 12/20/24 BW WW YW Milk Marb RE $C +1.3 +96 +170 +29 +1.21 +.86 350 Armstrong X Iconic Varilek Dominance 5278 12 21356986 • 1/21/25 BW WW YW Milk Marb RE $C +2.6 +104 +173 +27 +.52 +1.37 319 Dominance X Varilek Joe Canada Varilek Top Gun 5054 23 21345591 • 12/16/24 BW WW YW Milk Marb RE $C +.4 +80 +128 +25 +.72 +1.10 281 Top Gun X Varilek Dividend Varilek Historic 5087 02 21344423 • 12/18/24 BW WW YW Milk Marb RE $C –.2 +79 +147 +27 +.92 +.75 317 Varilek Historic X Fair-N-Square Varilek BLK Band 5067 31 21345774 • 12/17/24 BW WW YW Milk Marb RE $C +2.1 +93 +176 +28 +.70 +1.15 323 Black Bandolier X Three Rivers Varilek Top Gun 5069 19 21345785 • 12/17/24 BW WW YW Milk Marb RE $C –.8 +85 +159 +20 +1.4 +97 355 Top Gun X Varilek Loaded Varilek Historic 4370 06 21402798 • 8/15/24 BW WW YW Milk Marb RE $C –.1 +88 +154 +29 +1.02 +.5 294 Varilek Historic X Weigh Up Varilek Salvation 4133 128 21360490 • 1/6/24 BW WW YW Milk Marb RE $C +2.4 +69 +120 +14 +.74 +1.23 283 Salvation X Emerald Selling 200 Registered Angus Bulls Saturday, February 21, 2026 1:00 pm (CST) 29208 374th Ave. • Geddes, SD 57342 www.varilekangus.com 74th Annual Angus Bull Sale Watch and Bid Online at Ross Cell • 605-680-1580 Ross & Kelly • 605-337-9896 Mick & Lynn • 605-337-2261 Mick Cell • 605-680-2555 EPD’s as of 12/15/2025
18 NEBRASKA CATTLEMAN February 2026 THE OTHER AI Artificial Intelligence and What It Means for the Beef Industry Part 2 Last month, we provided a broad overview of what artificial intelligence (AI) is. To recap, in case you missed it, AI is a form of machine learning that creates systems capable of performing tasks that typically require human intelligence. This can include learning from data, reasoning, solving problems, understanding language and recognizing patterns. In other words, AI is about building machines that can think or act intelligently. AI is trained through data collection and can be trained to draw inferences about complex relationships that may be difficult to detect. This enables it to make sense of data that can be very complicated in an efficient way. AI is quickly integrating into many aspects of daily life across the country, but many cattle producers have yet to start utilizing it in their day-to-day operations on the ranch. PROGRAMS YOU MIGHT CONSIDER “Artificial intelligence has the potential to become the tool that helps us see things we couldn’t see before, and also do things that used to be super repetitive and laborious,” says Yijie Xiong, Ph.D., assistant professor and precision livestock management Extension specialist at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL). Operations that include farming may have seen AI integrate into their daily lives with self-steering tractors. It is through AI and the algorithms developed that the tractors have superior accuracy when steering themselves. There is even technology that will take aerial imagery of your field and, through AI, generate a detailed map of where all of the rocks are, allowing you to pick rocks in a fraction of the time and start planting. “One good example is the row cropping systems,” Xiong explains. “Computers or machine learning cameras can identify moldy points before human eyes can notice them.” Another simple yet powerful example comes in the form of irrigation monitoring. “So many growers now use AI tools that enable irrigation scheduling tools, which can combine satellite imagery with data collected from soil-moisture sensors and water-forecast information,” Xiong says. “Think about how complicated that is, but AI has that ability to combine all of that information and predict when a field will actually need irrigation and how much it will need.” Xiong, along with some of her colleagues at UNL, has been working on an AI application to estimate forage availability. The program, Snap2Graze, uses a photo of a pasture and the AI algorithm that they have developed to predict the amount of canopy cover that the photo is showing. “We take a picture of the forage, and then the AI alogrithm that we developed can take that picture and tell us that in this picture, we have about 50 percent of cereal rye cover in relation to the soil,” Xiong explains. “From this percentage, we can predict how much forage mass the area has. This is important because it gives producers the ability to simply take representative photos via smarphones and the tool provides the best estimate of how much biomass they have available. That allows producers to figure out how many cows they can stock on that pasture based on the pounds per acre of available forage mass that the program detected.” The feedlot and seedstock sectors are seeing an increase in the amount of information that can be collected through electronic identification (EID) tags. Data is collected by sensors, EID tags and cameras. Once the algorithm is “trained” satisfactorily, more data is continuously collected (i.e., how often cattle go to water or to feed). AI can even use those photos to recognize different cows’ faces, muzzle prints or body features. It can even predict the animals’ body condition score. With the integration of cameras, algorithms can now detect abnormal behavior in near real time. If the algorithm detects a change in behavior, such as a cow not coming to feed or not leaving water for an extended period, then it flags this as a potential problem and notifies management. Programs such as Performance Beef from Performance Livestock Analytics or Cattler, have been developed to streamline the process of feeding cattle – from developing rations TRESSA LAWRENCE | CONTRIBUTING WRITER PRODUCTION
February 2026 NEBRASKA CATTLEMAN 19 to inputting the amount of feed dropped into the bunks and monitoring how much feed is in stock to calculating feed invoices. This technology was designed with the intention of increasing accuracy by using real-time data to make informed decisions, while decreasing the amount of time and human error traditionally involved in these tasks. “These programs are great,” says Chris Swenson, a cattle feeder in northeastern South Dakota. “You enter how much feed you start with in stock, then every load that is fed out is weighed, so you have an accurate account of what feed is in stock, and it will let you know when you need to order more. “When we go read the bunks and input that information into the program, it automatically adjusts the rations for the next day, which saves us a lot of time.” The programs Swenson is referring to also allow you to input any sick calves and how they were doctored, or any death loss that may occur, compiling all of that recordkeeping into one location that can easily be exported. TALK TO THE BOT AI chatbots, such as ChatGPT, are large language model algorithms that are trained with billions of language examples. Chatbots can be downloaded as an app on your phone or accessed via a webpage. The algorithm learns how to mimic human writing, extract contextual information and the more that you interact with it personally, the more it can track context and, if you give your permission, can remember past conversations. Think of it as the person that you would turn to if you had a question, except it can be any question. The algorithm has already “learned” millions of market reports, Extension articles, manuals, books and conversations. The more information you give in your question, the more detailed the response can be. When you ask a question, the chatbot starts by breaking down the question, analyzing your conversation so far and determining what kind of answer you want (i.e., quick fix, checklist or explanation). It uses patterns from similar situations that it has learned from previously to build a step-bystep response. Chatbots can be helpful when seeking out quick explanations rather than having to research the answer yourself. They can assist with paperwork help such as recordkeeping or sending emails, and planning things such as grazing rotations, calving schedules or drought plans. It is almost like having a virtual assistant. Chatbots can be used in a multitude of creative ways. For example, say your vehicle is not working right, and you assume the transmission went out. You can ask your chatbot to act like an auto mechanic and ask you questions about why and how your vehicle is not working. For Steve Miller, an educator who recently taught a community-interest class on AI, that is exactly what happened. Programs such as Performance Beef and Cattler have been designed to streamline the process of feeding cattle by calculating feed rations and inventory, and centralizing recordkeeping. CONTINUED ON PAGE 20
20 NEBRASKA CATTLEMAN February 2026 “The chatbot started asking me questions, and through some backand-forth, I kept giving it the feedback of what my car was doing and not doing, and I was able to go to an auto parts store and pick up a $12 item to fix my transmission for my older car,” Miller says. “Otherwise, it would have been easily over $1,000. By no means am I a mechanic, but I was able to fix my car because of ChatGPT and using the right prompting.” It is important to remember that, in spite of all of the good that AI can do, you should always think of it as a guideline that should be verified. Chatbots may not verify facts and may give outdated information. It is a great place to start when needing ideas, but you should always use your best judgment from personal knowledge and experience to form opinions. All of the programs in this article are designed to assist producers in making their daily lives more efficient, streamlining tasks to take up less time. But ultimately, all of these programs still need human guidance to complete these tasks in some capacity. “We are in a digital age, and we are having a lot more options than we have had before,” Xiong says. “The beef production system, especially in Nebraska, has always relied on good stockmanship and strong intuition. And using AI does not, and cannot, change that. AI can help producers extend that intuition over larger landscapes, more animals and also under more unpredictable conditions.” ~NC~ Above: Chatbots are available as apps on your phone or can be accessed on webpages. Chatbots can be used for everything from assisting with schedules and bookkeeping to helping you problem solve. Right: AI programs have been developed to identify cattle based on their muzzle patterns, facial recognition or other identifying body features. Photo courtesy of Tressa Lawrence. THE OTHER AI CONTINUED FROM PAGE 19
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24 NEBRASKA CATTLEMAN February 2026 Late Gestational Undernutrition IMPACTS IN BEEF HEIFERS ON DAM AND OFFSPRING OUTCOMES COLBY A. REDIFER AND ALLISON M. MEYER | DIVISION OF ANIMAL SCIENCES, UNIVERSITY OF MISSOURI Nutrient requirements increase dramatically in the late gestation beef female to allow for proper growth and function of the uteroplacenta, fetus and mammary gland. Even in well-managed herds, it is possible for cows and heifers to be nutrient restricted during this time due to challenges of low forage quality or availability and environmental stress brought on by cold (spring calving) or heat (fall calving). For heifers, the added nutrient requirements of growth and establishment of a functional uterus and mammary gland for the first time pose an even greater challenge during their first pregnancy. A growing body of research demonstrates that nutrient restriction during pregnancy can have long-lasting effects on calves resulting from impaired development before and after birth. This is not surprising, as calves depend on their dams for all nutrients before birth and the majority of nutrients pre-weaning. Late-gestational nutrient restriction research generally associates decreased nutrient delivery during gestation with programming fetal growth and development, resulting in poor postnatal outcomes. However, the effects gestational nutrient partitioning may have on programming the mammary gland to decrease milk yield and therefore postnatal nutrient delivery is far less understood. It is also generally unknown how poor nutrition during one pregnancy impacts cows during their next pregnancy and lactation. Experimental Model To determine the effects of late gestational nutrient restriction in first-parity females, fall-calving Hereford × Simmental-Angus heifers were bred to a single sire. From day 160 of pregnancy until calving, one group was fed to fully meet energy and protein needs, while another group received about 70 percent of those requirements. The heifers were fed individually using Calan gates so intake could be tightly controlled. From day 160 to 265 of gestation, diets were based on low-quality chopped sorghum sudan hay and for the rest of gestation and lactation, diets were based on chopped tall fescue hay. Heifers were supplemented daily with whole corn, dried distillers grains and soyhull pellets to meet targeted nutritional planes. After calving, treatments were terminated and all cows were fed to meet energy and protein requirements for maintenance, lactation and growth. Females continued to be fed individually in Calan gates to ensure individual nutrient intakes remained similar and to prevent calves from having access to feed other than milk. At 5 months post-calving, cowcalf pairs were co-mingled and group-fed hay and supplement until calves were weaned at 8 months of age. Post-weaning, calves were backgrounded in drylots for two months and then placed into the feedlot for finishing. Cattle were harvested at a similar number of days on feed. Outcomes Major findings of late gestational nutrient restriction on dam and offspring outcomes are shown in Figure 1. Nutrient-restricted females lost body weight and condition and had fewer nutrients in maternal circulation during late pregnancy. Post-calving, nutrient-restricted dams weighed 141 pounds less and were 2 lower body condition score. Nutrient-restricted dams had lower maternal heart rates during pregnancy and altered placental growth, yet total uterine blood flow and placental weight were maintained and ensured calf birth weights similar to control dams. Fetal presentation at calving was normal for all control births, while 23.1 percent (3 of 13) of nutrient-restricted dams had calf malpresentations. It should be noted that when we conducted a similar study using the same experimental model the following year, calf birth weight was reduced by 15 percent and placental weight by 17 percent, but uterine blood flow remained unaffected. In PRODUCTION
February 2026 NEBRASKA CATTLEMAN 25 combination, these results demonstrated that late gestational nutrient restriction is inconsistent in reducing fetal growth, which appears to be driven more by placental size than uterine blood flow. While calf birth weight and gestation length were unaffected in this study, nutrient-restricted dams had less vigorous calves that were slower to stand and 40 percent less colostrum yield. Colostrum of nutrient-restricted females was more concentrated with immunoglobulin G, and calf 48-h serum immunoglobulin G indicated that calves of both treatments had successful passive transfer of immunity. Colostrum of nutrient-restricted females had less total lactose, but similar total protein and fat compared with control females. There was no neonatal calf death loss due to treatment; however, this was likely because females were monitored continuously during the calving season for research purposes. Even when females were fed to meet their energy and protein requirements during lactation, late gestational nutrient restriction reduced milk yield by 15 percent and decreased milk protein concentration during the first 150 days of lactation. Lower milk production was partially explained by a 19 percent reduction in blood flow supplying the mammary gland during this time. By day 21 of lactation, metabolic status of previously nutrient-restricted dams had returned to concentrations similar to control dams. During lactation, previously nutrient-restricted females gained maternal weight faster and increased body condition. Still, previously nutrient-restricted dams had not fully recovered by weaning, as they weighed 37 pounds less and were 0.7 lower body condition score. Females in both treatments were similarly successful in rebreeding for a second calf and comparable to industry averages for conception rate. Less total lactose, protein and fat provided by the milk resulted in calf body weight diverging by 42 days of age. Calves born to nutrient-restricted dams remained smaller through weaning, when they weighed 59 pounds less than control calves (Figure 2). Interestingly, calf metabolic status Figure 1. Effects of late gestational nutrient restriction on dam and offspring outcomes in the first parity. Figure 2. Effect of late gestational nutrient restriction on calf body weight (BW) from birth until weaning. Solid circles (●) represent calves born to control dams and open circles (○) represent calves born to nutrient-restricted dams. *Treatment means differ (P ≤ 0.05). CONTINUED ON PAGE 26
26 NEBRASKA CATTLEMAN February 2026 pre-weaning was not as severely altered as expected considering milk nutrient and calf growth differences. At harvest, calves born to nutrient-restricted dams had lower dressing percentage, but improved yield grade and backfat thickness. Final feedlot body weight, hot carcass weight, ribeye area and quality grade were not affected by maternal treatment. Outcomes in the Second Pregnancy and Lactation Females were managed together and followed through weaning of their second calf to determine if there were carryover effects during the subsequent parity (Figure 3). Previously nutrient-restricted dams still weighed roughly 100 pounds less and were 0.6 lower in body condition score when measured at multiple points during late gestation and lactation. Uterine blood flow, placental size and calf birth weight were unaffected by nutrient restriction during the first pregnancy. Colostrum yield, nutrient composition and immunoglobulin G concentrations had recovered and were similar between treatments. Milk yield and nutrient composition also recovered; however, the reduction in milk protein concentration in previously nutrient-restricted dams still remained. Reduced LATE GESTATIONAL UNDERNUTRITION CONTINUED FROM PAGE 25 Figure 3. Effects of late gestational nutrient restriction in the first parity on dam and offspring outcomes in the second parity. mammary blood flow persisted in the second lactation and was 18 percent less for previously nutrient-restricted dams. During the second parity, differences in lactational performance were not severe enough to alter calf pre-weaning growth as weaning weight was similar between treatments. Implications Although late gestational nutrient restriction may not always reduce birth weight, our results illustrate that colostrum and milk production was impaired by nutrient restriction, resulting in decreased pre-weaning growth. Calves born to nutrient-restricted dams had lighter weaning weights, which would ultimately affect cow-calf profitability. While no calves died in the research setting, it is more likely that calf malpresentations at birth, reduced calf vigor and altered colostrum composition could lead to decreased calf survival in nutrient-restricted heifers in a production setting. Additionally, persisting effects in the second parity on maternal size, fleshing ability and mammary blood flow demonstrate the possibility of long-term programming effects on the dam, which could have implications for cow longevity in the herd. These results reinforce the importance of providing adequate nutrients to pregnant beef cattle, especially first-calf heifers that are still growing. This work was supported by USDA-AFRI grant 201767015-26587 and the Illinois Beef Association. Previously published in the March/April 2023 digital edition of BEEF magazine. ~NC~
February 2026 NEBRASKA CATTLEMAN 27 GELBVIEH, BALANCER® AND ANGUS BULLS Selling 150+ lots. Wednesday. MARCH 4. 2026 1:00 PM (CST) At the Ranch, Arapahoe, NE INVESTMENT Bull Sale Genetic YourGENETIC SOURCE Dan and Kate Warner 42198 Road 721, Arapahoe, NE 68922 Dan Warner: 308.962.6511 Monte Warner: 308.962.6136 Darren Warner: 308.824.2950 warnerbeef.com Contact us to request a sale book. • Sight Unseen Guarantee || Full Guarantee • Large Sire Groups • Complete Data and Genomics on every bull • Free Delivery || Volume Discounts BULLS LIKE THESE SELL MARCH 5 INCLUDING FULL AND HALF BROTHERS. Broadcasting Real-Time Auctions
28 NEBRASKA CATTLEMAN February 2026 12:30 P.M. IN PARADISE, KANSAS MARCH 13, 2026 35th Annual Production Sale The region’s standard for a large offering of multi-breed bulls that all sell AGE ADVANTAGED18-month & 2-year-olds! BAR S DYNAMIC 4247 • AAA: 21258741 SIRE: B A R DYNAMIC MGS: LD CAPITALIST 316 A TREMENDOUS SET OF B A R DYNAMIC SONS WILL HIGHLIGHT THIS YEAR’S SALE OFFERING! BAR S DYNAMIC 4152 • AAA: 21258649 SIRE: B A R DYNAMIC MGS: E&B PLUS ONE THIS STOUT MADE, POWERFUL HERD SIRE PROSPECT IS LOADED WITH SHAPE FROM END TO END! BAR S DYNAMIC 4384 • AAA: 21258766 SIRE: B A R DYNAMIC MGS: CONNEALY COWMAKER 7145 A SOGGY, DEEP BODIED STUD THAT IS BACKED BY TRUE MATERNAL POWER. THE KIND THAT WILL SIRE ELITE REPLACEMENTS!
February 2026 NEBRASKA CATTLEMAN 29 BAR S BOILER 4196 • AAA: 21255654 SIRE: SIMONSON BOILER 441 MGS: BAR S OMEGA 8605 AN ELITE PERFORMANCE DRIVEN SIRE OPTION THAT WILL ADD SUBSTANCE AND MATERNAL EXCELLENCE TO YOUR PROGRAM! BAR S LEAD TIME 4918 • AICA: M1016280 SIRE: OW LEAD TIME 6294 PLD MGS: BAR S GOLDEN STATE 5532 THIS SON OF OUTCROSS STUD IS BACKED BY THE LEGENDARY “ANNIE” COW FAMILY. A BURLY, DENSE HERD SIRE BUILT FOR HEAVY SERVICE! BAR S JUSTIFIED 4406 • AAA: 21255671 SIRE: KG JUSTIFIED 3023 MGS: BASIN PAYWEIGHT 1682 ONE OF THE STOUTEST AND MOST UNIQUE INDIVIDUALS THAT WE HAVE EVER OFFERED! BAR S GOLDEN STATE 4072 • AICA: EM1009841 SIRE: BAR S GOLDEN STATE 5532 MGS: CCF KNOB CREEK 0808 PLD A TOP SHELF CALVING EASE HERD SIRE PROSPECT WITH CARCASS AND MATERNAL TRAITS! BAR S GROWTH FUND 4488 • AAA: 21255681 SIRE: DEER VALLEY GROWTH FUND MGS: HA COWBOY UP 5405 THIS CURVE BENDING HERD SIRE PROSPECT IS SUPPORTED BY MULTIPLE GENERATIONS OF PROVEN COW FAMILIES! BAR S LEAD TIME 4919 • AICA: M1016280 SIRE: OW LEAD TIME 6294 PLD MGS: EB CALIFORNIA 1041 A REAL POWER BULL THAT IS BUILT TO ADD POUNDS AND SUBSTANCE TO THE NEXT GENERATION! Offering Graham Blagg 530-913-6418 Jered Shipman 806-983-7226 Tim Anderson 605-682-9343 INNOVATIONAGMARKETING.COM David Dickerson 785-483-1454 | Stephanie Dickerson 785-445-5139 Ken Stielow 785-483-9733 | Ethan Dickerson 785-324-1321 Jayce Dickerson 785-324-1673 BARSANGUSRANCH.COM 100+ 2 YEAR OLD BULLS, 15 FALL BULLS, 10 REGISTERED OPEN HEIFERS, 15 REGISTERED BRED HEIFERS, & 125 OPEN AND BRED COMMERCIAL HEIFERS ANGUS, RED ANGUS, & CHAROLAIS REPRESENTED BAR S CAPTAIN 4442 • RAAA: 5007927 SIRE: PIE CAPTAIN 057 MGS: 9 MILE FRANCHIS 6309 A ROYAL RED ANGUS PEDIGREE. IMAGINE THE BUCKSKIN FEMALES HE WILL RAISE! BAR S FINISHED PRODUCT 4578 • RAAA: 5003433 SIRE: NSFR FINISHED PRODUCT H228 MGS: NSFR CALIBER C84 FROM THE RENOWNED /S DIXIE LADY OSCAR 3142A COW FAMILY, A FOUNDATION AT BAR S RANCH. BAR S COMPLETELY 4412 • RAAA: 5007957 SIRE: BERWALD COMPLETELY 2056 MGS: RAVISHING LEGACY 1701 4412 OFFERS BREEDING LEADING PERFORMANCE, CARCASS MERIT, AND MATERNAL STRENGTH!
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