The Hone Ranch in Minden was recently recognized by the American Gelbvieh Association as the owner of four Gelbvieh cows exhibiting the consistent maternal efficiency typical of "The Continental Breed of Choice."
The AGA has designated these outstanding beef females as Dam of Merit and Dam of Distinction.
Maternal productivity plays a major role in profitable beef production, as nearly 60 percent of the cost of producing a pound of beef can be attributed to the cow herd.
Considerable economic research has demonstrated that fertility and calving ease followed by milk, growth and carcass cutability have the biggest influence on profit in a retained ownership (conception to carcass) system.
Commercial cattlemen agree that Gelbvieh have strong maternal attributes with the added benefits of fast growth and carcass cutability.
Given the increased emphasis on efficient beef production, the Gelbvieh breed is in an excellent position to increase its influence on the beef industry.
The title "Dam of Merit" recognizes cows that meet strict selection criteria including early puberty and conception, regular calving intervals and above-average weaning weights on at least three calves.
Of the 50,775 active cows in the Gelbvieh breed, only 5.3 percent qualify for Dam of Merit.
The "Dam of Distinction" honor recognizes cows that meet the same high standards for superior, long-term productivity with at least eight calves.
Just 0.7 percent of all active Gelbvieh cows qualify for this elite group.
For more information on Gelbvieh cattle and AGA programs, contact the American Gelbvieh Association at 10900 Dover Street, Westminster, Colo., 80021, or telephone (303)465-2333.
