Lauren Chase

Meet Montana Stockgrowers Association Leadership: Gene Curry

2012-02-17T09:13:00.000-06:00

Gene Curry was elected 2nd Vice President of the Montana Stockgrowers Association in December 2010. He will serve a two-year term through December 2012.

Gene grew up working on a small part-time ranch in Valier, Mont. His parents owned and operated a grocery store. He enjoyed the ranch enterprise much more than the store, so after graduating from Montana State University in 1971 with a bachelor’s degree in Animal Science, Gene returned to Valier to manage the small family cattle operation. By 1976, it was evident that the cattle enterprise alone was not going to provide enough for his family, so he purchased a trucking business which he still operates. His wife Cheryl and their kids helped run the ranch while Gene was away with the trucking business. In 1988, the Currys were able to purchase their first land, and in 1989, added another place. Curry Cattle Co. has continued to grow from that point on, leasing Cheryl’s family farm in 1995 and purchasing another farm in 2006. The Currys run a diversified farm and ranch, both irrigated and dry, raising Angus feeder cattle and replacement females along with wheat, barley, and some specialty crops.

Gene and Cheryl have four adult children: Leanne, Wendy, Jeremy, and Scott. Jeremy joined the operation in 1999. In 2001, he married Shannon and they have three children: Ty, Sierra, and Taylor, who are the fourth generation at Curry Cattle Co. Gene and Cheryl’s other children and grandchildren all live nearby and like to be involved whenever possible.

Gene has been active in the beef industry and in his community. Gene is a member of the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, founding member of Valier Stockman’s Association, and served as a Director of MSGA from 2003-2007. Gene has served on his local church board, school board, and 20+ years on local co-op board, including approximately 20 years as chairman. Gene is current chairman of Cut Bank CHS board, an area-wide (five-county) board.

Happy Valentine's Day!

2012-02-14T09:24:00.000-06:00

Happy Valentine's Day from the Montana Stockgrowers Association! We Love Moo!

Bill on NCBA Presidency and His Future

2012-02-13T09:51:00.000-06:00

We're taking a bye week from Bill on Beef to feature Bill's outgoing message after finishing his time as the president of NCBA. He talks about how this past year has changed his view of the beef industry and his own ranch.

Montana calving

2012-02-10T17:54:00.000-06:00

Calving season starts now in Montana --- this little one needs a bit of direction. Happy Friday! Moo!

Meet Tucker Hughes - MSGA Leadership

2012-02-08T12:48:00.000-06:00

Tucker Hughes was elected 1st Vice President of the Montana Stockgrowers Association in December 2010. He previously served as 2nd Vice President from 2008-2010, and South Central District Director from 2004-2008. Tucker is a former chairman of the MSGA Membership Development and Services Committee.

Tucker is part of a family ranch company that is a commercial cow/calf operation in the Little Belt Mountains south of Stanford, Mont. His grandfather homesteaded south of Stanford in the late 1800s and the Hughes families are still on the land. He has been managing the ranch for around 40 years.

Tucker and his wife Jane have two sons, Ryan and Scott. Tucker and Scott’s families were featured on the “Last American Cowboy” TV show that aired on Animal Planet in 2010.

Tucker is very active in the beef industry and his local community. Tucker is a member and past president of the Judith Basin Stockgrowers. He is a Tax Committee member for the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association and has attended several national conventions as a committee member and voting delegate. Tucker is a Judith Basin County Commissioner, member of the Judith Basin Chamber of Commerce, chairman of the Judith Basin Endowment Fund, and member and past president of the Russell Country Tourism Board. Tucker previously served as Stanford School Board trustee and chairman and is a past member of the Federal Reserve Bank of Minnesota Agriculture Advisory Council.

Opening General Session of 2012 Cattle Industry Convention

2012-02-07T09:25:00.001-06:00

Keynote speaker, Marcus Luttrell. "Luttrell's 2007 #1 New York Times best-selling book, Lone Survivor, tells the harrowing story of four Navy SEALs who journeyed into the mountainous border of Afghanistan and Pakistan on Operation Redwing. An unparalleled motivational story of survival, the book is also a moving tribute to the friends and teammates who did not make it off the mountain." Click here to see more photos from the Opening General Session.

Bill on Beef - Ep. 42 at Cattle Industry Convention

2012-02-06T09:43:00.000-06:00

It's the Bill on Beef you've all been waiting for! Filmed in front of 3,500 cattlemen, Bill shares an exciting update about the child labor rule and thanks everyone for their dedication to the great beef industry!

Wheels Wednesday: Black Cattle, White Snow

2012-01-25T10:22:00.001-06:00

Off to the West of Helena, over the continental divide, are some great cattle ranches. Lauren headed over there to check them out over the weekend. Ranchers are feeding hay now as winter begins. Want to see more? Click here.

Meet Montana Stockgrowers Association's Leadership: Watty Taylor

2012-01-24T10:37:00.000-06:00

Walter “Watty” Taylor became President of the Montana Stockgrowers Association in December 2010. He will serve a two-year term through December 2012. Watty was raised on the ranch in Kirby, MT and attended school at a one-room schoolhouse until the sixth grade. He spent the next two years in Denver, Colo. before attending high school in Cornwall, Conn. After high school he attended a one-year course at the Royal Agricultural College in England. Watty served with the U.S. Navy Seabees from 1969 to 1971 and then returned to Montana to work at the Snowy Mountain Ranch near Roundup. Watty met his bride-to-be, Lila, while working there. The two were married in 1972 and began ranching in Boyd, Mont. In 1973, the Taylors moved back to Kirby to manage Watty’s father’s ranch until 1994 when they took over the operation. The Taylors run a Herford and Angus cow/calf operation on 30,000 acres and raise their own replacement heifers. They raise alfalfa hay with a hay barley rotation crop for their own use. The Taylors also raise thoroughbred horses for ranch use and for polo. For more information on Watty, check out his page on MSGA's website:http://www.mtbeef.org/watty-taylor.aspx

Bill on Beef - Ep. 41

2012-01-23T09:46:00.000-06:00

What elements are needed to have a successful team?...especially for livestock associations. On this week's episode, Bill shares what he thinks teamwork is as depicted in a beautiful painting.

Wheels Wednesday: Gates of the Ranch and Gates of the Mountains

2012-01-18T09:15:00.000-06:00

This week, the cattle near the Gates of the Mountains are featured on Wheels Wednesday. The evening of July 19,1805, was a hot one in the wilderness that would later become Montana. On the Missouri River, not far from present day Helena, the hardy members of the Lewis and Clark expedition toiled to move upstream. Rock embankments made towing from shore impossible, and the deep channel forced the men to row rather than pole their boats forward.

Suddenly, there loomed before them towering rock formations unlike any they had ever seen. From both sides of the river, limestone cliffs rose to a spectacular height of 1200 feet. "In many places," wrote Meriwether Lewis, "the rocks seem ready to tumble on us." At each bend in the waterway, great stone walls seemed to block passage, only to open like gentle giant gates as the expedition drew near. In his journal, Meriwether wrote: "I shall call this place: "GATES OF THE MOUNTAINS".

To see all of the photos from Wheels Wednesday, click here.

Bill on Beef - Ep. 40

2012-01-16T10:20:00.000-06:00

Bill is talking sustainability of the beef industry on this week's episode of Bill on Beef. What do YOU think the beef industry needs to be sustainable?

The Larson Family

2012-01-10T09:26:00.000-06:00

Not only does the Larson Family of Sidney, Montana have own cattle at home, Kristin and Tim help run Prewitt & Co., a cattle buying business...AND raise 4 children! Watch this video interview with Kristin and Tim as they explain what makes everything they do worthwhile.

Bill on Beef - Ep. 39

2012-01-09T09:16:00.000-06:00

What's better than a mouth-watering roast right from the oven? On this week's episode, Bill...and Betsy...teach us how to cook the perfect roast!

Vet Life in Montana

2012-01-06T15:52:00.000-06:00

Meet Gary Scheiber D.V.M. of High Plains Vet Clinic in Sidney, Montana. I spent the day with him as he administered vaccines and checked for pregnancy in cattle at Dwight Thiessen's ranch. Be sure to watch the interview with Dr. Scheiber that was posted earlier this week. To see all the photos from my visit, click here.

Wheels Wednesday - Sidney, Montana

2012-01-04T09:08:00.000-06:00

Throughout Montana travels, I snap photos from my truck. Here is this week's Wheels Wednesday collection from Sidney, Montana. They were taken in early December. To see more photos, click here.

Montana Veterinarian on Caring for Cattle

2012-01-03T10:16:00.000-06:00

Gary Scheiber, D.V.M. from High Plains Vet Clinic in Sidney, Montana explains why we give vaccinations to cattle and how he can check to see if the cows are pregnant with the new calves.

Bill on Beef - Ep. 38

2012-01-02T12:46:00.000-06:00

In this week's episode, Bill tells us about the code of ethics that cowboys live by. Which one is your favorite?

Montana Stockgrowers Association: A Year in Review

2011-12-27T07:32:00.000-06:00

Wondering what the Montana Stockgrowers Association was up to in 2011? Well, here's your answer! This video highlights MSGA's accomplishments throughout the year and celebrates all the great people involved with the association.

Bill on Beef - Ep. 37

2011-12-26T09:33:00.000-06:00

What's so important about conventions? Why should ranchers attend their state and national ones? Find out on this episode of Bill on Beef and you might also see some special guests!

Moo-ry Christmas

2011-12-23T16:39:00.000-06:00

Merry Christmas from the Montana Stockgrowers Association!

Cowboy Zachary: What Does A Cowboy Wear?

2011-12-21T07:53:00.001-06:00

6-year-old Zachary teaches us what makes up a cowboy's wardrobe and why a cowboy wears each piece of gear. Zachary is the son of Rebecca Been, American National CattleWomen Educator of the Year.

MSGA & MCW Annual Convention and Trade Show 2011

2011-12-20T09:43:00.000-06:00

Photos from the Montana Stockgrowers Association and Montana CattleWomen convention! We had lots of great speakers, great supporters and great fun! Click here to view the complete album.

Bill on Beef - Ep. 36

2011-12-19T11:47:00.000-06:00

What do the Free Trade Agreements and cattle tongue have in common? Find out on this week's episode of Bill on Beef!

Montana Rancher Jerry McMillen

2011-12-14T08:06:00.000-06:00

Meet Rancher Jerry McMillen. Jerry teaches us about why ranchers feed mineral and protein supplements to cattle. Also, he shares with us why he enjoys this lifestyle and be sure to check out the guest star of this video.

Bill on Beef - Ep. 35

2011-12-12T08:21:00.000-06:00

While at the grocery store, ever wonder about all the different steak choices? And why some cuts have more fat than others. On this week's episode, we head to the meat counter with Bill to learn about the beef products that end up on your plate.

Baling Corn Stalks with Rancher, Jim Steinbeisser

2011-12-09T07:31:00.000-06:00

Photos from my visit to Jim Steinbeisser's ranch: baling corn stalks for cattle's winter bedding. Click here to see more!

Bill on Beef - Ep. 34

2011-12-05T09:30:00.000-06:00

In the cattle business, like any other business, it's important to know when to sell and who will be the best buyer of your product. On this episode, Bill discusses why it's essential to have a solid marketing plan for your calves.

Grant-Kohrs Ranch

2011-11-29T08:31:00.000-06:00

"Wide open spaces, the hard-working cowboy, his spirited cow pony, and vast herds of cattle are among the strongest symbols of the American West. Once the headquarters of a 10 million acre cattle empire, Grant-Kohrs Ranch National Historic Site is a working cattle ranch that preserves these symbols and commemorates the role of cattlemen in American history." - http://www.nps.gov/grko/index.htm

Bill on Beef - Ep. 33

2011-11-28T09:41:00.002-06:00

Today is "Cyber Monday." Online stores are selling items like crazy. Might we suggest a hat for your rancher friends or family? In this episode, Bill explains why ranchers are people of many hats. How many hats do YOU own?

Shipwheel Cattle Company - Swanson Family

2011-11-23T10:08:00.000-06:00

The Swanson Family of Chinook, Montana raises Angus cattle. Parents Klint and Lori have a son, Austin and a daughter, Bree. These kids couldn't love being on the ranch anymore. Austin, 8, knows he's a cowboy and is truly proud to be one. In this video, find out what makes the Swanson's lives on the ranch so special to them and hear their thoughts about getting beef on America's tables.

Montana Hereford Association Feeder Calf Sale

2011-11-22T09:55:00.000-06:00

Montana Hereford Association held a Hereford-influenced feeder calf sale on Wednesday in Three Forks. Ranchers from all over the state bought their calves to the sale barn to be sold primarily to feedlots in the midwest...just another step in the beef production cycle. To see more photos, click here.

Bill on Beef - Ep. 32

2011-11-21T09:26:00.000-06:00

Calves are born and right away, they start to get vitamins and nutrients from their mothers. After several months, it's time for the calves to not rely on Mom anymore. So, what happens next? Find out on this week's Bill on Beef.

Montana Hereford Association Feeder Calf Sale

2011-11-18T09:49:00.000-06:00

Where do the cattle go from Montana? In this video, find out the next step in the beef production cycle. Montana Hereford Association held a Hereford-influenced feeder calf sale on Wednesday in Three Forks. Ranchers from all over the state bought their calves to the sale barn to be sold primarily to feedlots in the midwest.

Talon Ranch in Photos

2011-11-17T10:00:00.001-06:00

Cam Cooper and her ranch manager, Ron Sampson, raise pure-bred Angus cattle on the Talon Ranch in Twin Bridges, Montana. Cam works with the Sitz Angus Ranch, believes that ranching is a business that feeds the food chain, and cherishes her ranching lifestyle. To see all the photos, click here.

Wheels Wednesday - Hwy 287

2011-11-16T09:31:00.000-06:00

Driving around Montana, you can see some amazing topography and working landscapes. For this Wheels Wednesday, Hwy 287 is featured - the photos are from the stretch south of Helena and to Three Forks.

Three Minutes with Farm Broadcaster, Haylie Shipp

2011-11-15T09:25:00.000-06:00

I caught up with farm broadcaster Haylie Shipp at the Northern International Livestock Expo to talk about her position in ag media. Haylie is a bright, passionate lady giving several states their farm and ranch news everyday. Haylie explains why she loves her career and welcomes anyone to contact her.

Bill on Beef - Ep. 31

2011-11-14T10:12:00.000-06:00

How is selling bred females now going to help with putting more beef on people's tables? Find out in this episode of Bill on Beef. Moo!

Happy Veteran's Day

2011-11-11T09:54:00.001-06:00

Trailing Cattle with the Swanson Family -Shipwheel Cattle Company

2011-11-09T10:54:00.000-06:00

On Monday, the Shipwheel Cattle Company crew trailed cattle near Chinook, Montana to new pasture. The children, Bree and Austin, are quite the little helpers! Austin even swathed a field by himself this summer. Klint and Lori, the ranch owners and operators, love raising their kids on it. They take great pride in running registered and commercial cattle together year around. For more information on Shipwheel Cattle Company, visit their website.

To see all the photos from the day, click here.

Talon Ranch

2011-11-08T07:54:00.002-06:00

Cam Cooper and her ranch manager, Ron Sampson, raise pure-bred and commercial Angus cattle on the Talon Ranch in Twin Bridges, Montana. Cam works with the Sitz Angus Ranch, believes that ranching is a business that feeds the food chain, and cherishes her ranching lifestyle.

Bill on Beef - Ep. 30

2011-11-07T07:12:00.002-06:00

Why do cowboys wear spurs? How do they help with horsemanship? Find out on this week's episode of Bill on Beef.

Shipping Cattle with the Green Family

2011-11-03T07:54:00.000-05:00

It was shipping day for Lazy J Diamond Ranch last week. Jim Green, along with his son, daughter-in-law, and friends gathered cattle off of pastures in the morning and brought them into the corrals. Then sorted off the cows from the calves and loaded them onto the trucks to be taken to Lewistown Stockyards. It was a cold morning, but the work got done and everyone was happy! To see more photos, click here.

Wiley Gelbvieh Branding Day

2011-11-01T10:25:00.000-05:00

The Wiley Family from Musselshell, Montana branded their fall calves last weekend. With help from family and friends, they had a successful branding day. In most cases, calving is done in the spring and branding follows a few months after, but Kathy Wiley says they chose to calve in the fall to fill a niche market in beef production.

Bill on Beef (Carne)

2011-10-31T09:19:00.000-05:00

Hola. On this week's episode, Bill checks out cattle in Mexico for the Five Nations Beef Alliance. FNBA includes the national organizations representing beef cattle producers in Australia, Canada, Mexico, New Zealand and the United States. Piensas que ellos dicen "Ah-ha" en Mexico con Bill?

Northern International Livestock Expo 2011

2011-10-28T09:11:00.000-05:00

Northern International Livestock Exposition (NILE) originated as an idea from the livestock committee of the Billings Chamber of Commerce in 1966. In 1967 the Public Auction Yards hosted an event to showcase the region's vast livestock industry. By the fall of 1968, a full-fledged livestock show with 250 exhibitors and 600 entries was underway. The first NILE consisted of livestock shows, horse shows, and rodeo and today those traditions continue as the NILE Stock Show and ProRodeo has become one of the largest agricultural events of the Northwest.

Red Angus Day at Frontier Stockyards

2011-10-26T09:34:00.000-05:00

A group of local Big Timber ranchers brought small groups of their Red Angus cattle to Frontier Stockyards last week. These cattle made up a few truck loads that headed off to feedlots in Nebraska. To see more photos, click here.

Wagner Girls Explain Showing Cattle

2011-10-25T10:22:00.000-05:00

It takes patience, dedication, and passion to show cattle and there are two Montanans who love every part of it. Meet Jena Lee Wagner and her sister, Jordyn from Billings. On top of prepping, caring for, and showing, these girls work hard in breed associations, in leadership roles and hope to take on the livestock world.

Bill on Beef - Ep. 28

2011-10-24T09:38:00.000-05:00

On this week's episode, Bill thinks like a cow and show us how important the design of corrals is to efficiency of getting them through a chute.

Future Montana Stockgrower

2011-10-21T08:55:00.000-05:00

Check out this future Stockgrower! He and his family were dining at a Billings steakhouse last night...I think he'll fit in nicely!

Grant-Kohrs Ranch Pumpkin Sunday

2011-10-19T09:22:00.000-05:00

DeBruycker Charolais

2011-10-18T09:39:00.001-05:00

The DeBruyckers are 3rd Montana ranchers who have been in the ranching industry for nearly 100 years, with almost half this time spent raising purebred Charolais cattle & Charolais bulls. At the fore of this large family-run business, you’ll find Lloyd and Jane DeBruycker – nationally and internationally recognized as leaders in promoting the Charolais breed. After more than 40 years in the business, Lloyd and Jane are still directly involved in the operation. Of their seven children, four are directly involved and the other three assist where and when they can – most even have cattle of their own. To learn more about DeBruycker Charolais, please visit their website: click here. And to see more photos from their ranch, click here.

Bill on Beef - Ep. 27

2011-10-17T09:29:00.000-05:00

It's almost time for the calves to be weaned from their mothers. But before that can happen, they need to get pre-conditioned. What does that mean? Find out on this week's episode of Bill on Beef.

Fall Cattle Work with Cayuse Livestock Co.

2011-10-12T10:03:00.000-05:00

Lauren headed back to visit the Cayuse Livestock Company to film more Bill on Beef episodes. This go-around, Bill and the crew were pre-conditioning the calves. They gave vaccinations to prevent illness after weaning and placed ear tags to help with age & source verification records. To see all of the photos, click here.

Young Agriculture Leadership Conference

2011-10-11T10:16:00.000-05:00

The YALC is a collaborative effort between nine of Montana’s agricultural organizations, offering attendees a chance to discuss current ag issues, take part in various workshops, meet with industry leaders and network with fellow young people who live Montana agriculture. YALC is a joint production brought to you by MSU College of Ag, Montana Agri-Women, Montana Farmers Union, Montana Stockgrowers Association, Montana Farm Bureau Federation, Montana Grain Growers Association, Montana Cattlemen's Association, Montana FFA Foundation and the Montana 4-H Foundation.

Bill on Beef - Ep. 26

2011-10-10T06:40:00.000-05:00

What do some ranchers do for fun? Well, the answer might surprise you. Find out what that is on this week's episode of Bill on Beef.

MSGA Expresses Bison Translocation Concerns

2011-10-07T10:07:00.000-05:00

The Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks is currently taking comments on a proposal to translocate bison from a quarantine study near Yellowstone National Park to four areas in the state. Recently, MSGA staff attended a hearing on the issue in Deer Lodge, Mont. All who spoke at the meeting spoke in opposition to the proposal which would put 40 head of bison on the nearby Spotted Dog Wildlife Management Area. Ranchers and sportsmen were united in sharing their many concerns about the proposal. MSGA relayed concerns about the proposal moving too quickly, brucellosis monitoring, fencing to ensure containment of the bison, and overall impacts to neighboring ranchlands. FWP is accepting comments on the proposal through Oct. 19, 2011. Contact the MSGA office if you have questions.

Storey Hereford Ranch

2011-10-06T10:03:00.000-05:00

Storey Hereford Ranch, located near Bozeman, Montana has been raising quality Herefords since 1935. Jim Storey, along with his daughter and her family own and operate the ranch. To see more photos, click here.

MSGA member Jim McCollum

2011-10-05T10:25:00.000-05:00

MSGA member, Jim McCollum, lives near Hobson, Montana. He is good friends with his neighbor Tucker Hughes. Tucker and I visited Jim a few weeks ago. Jim showed us his front loader that he built from scratch many decades ago. He still uses it today during haying season. To see more photos, click here.

Pre-Conditioning Calves with the Endecott Family

2011-10-04T05:47:00.000-05:00

Bob, Janet, and Rachel Endecott, along with other friends and family, pre-conditioned their calves last week. Pre-conditioning calves means giving them vaccinations to prevent illness while they are weaned off their mothers. They also gave the calves electronic identification ear tags to keep records accurate and easily accessible. To see all of the photos, click here.

Bill on Beef - Ep. 25

2011-10-03T08:55:00.000-05:00

When shipping cattle, there's more to it then just loading them on the trucks. Bill enlightens us this week with all the details on moving cattle across state lines! Moo!

Lindseth Charolais Ranch

2011-09-30T09:11:00.000-05:00

A herd of Charolais cattle is currently grazing just along the Rocky Mountain front near Dupuyer, Montana. Listen to why Ray Lindseth, his family, and his hired man, love raising these cattle and love the ranching lifestyle.

Harrison Land and Livestock

2011-09-29T09:37:00.001-05:00

Harrison Land and Livestock in Belt, Montana is owned by the Harrison family (Mark and Patti with their two sons). Mark Harrison is currently serving on the board of directors of MSGA. Buck Ward, herd manager on the ranch, makes sure things run smoothly. On my last visit to the ranch, Brian Baxter (Baxter Communications) came to film on the ranch for NCBA's Cattlemen to Cattlemen. To see more photos, click here.

Montana Angus Tour 2011

2011-09-28T10:36:00.001-05:00

The Montana Angus Tour allows people from all over the country to view top quality Angus cattle on multiple ranches in just a few days. Each year, the tour focuses on one district of the state. This year, the tour was hosted by the North Central Montana Angus Association with stops at Northern MT Experiment Station, Top Notch Angus, Whistling Winds Angus, Louie Petrie Ranch, Hinman Angus, Milk River Genetics, Peterson Grain & Cattle, Nissen Angus, Clear Creek Angus, 4 Butte Cattle Company, and Shipwheel Cattle Company. To see all the photos from the tour, click here.

Lindseth Charolais Ranch

2011-09-27T10:03:00.000-05:00

Ray Lindseth, along with his wife and hired man, Andy Johnson, raise Charolais cattle near Dupuyer, Montana. Having a vista of the Rocky Mountains everyday and being able to ranch, makes life for this family very enjoyable. To see all of the photos from the visit, click here.

Bill on Beef - Ep. 24

2011-09-26T08:13:00.000-05:00

Having many ropes on a ranch isn't an unusual sight. This is because ranchers need to have the ability to rope cattle out in the pastures to doctor them. There is a definite art to roping and on this week's episode, Bill explains it to us.

Shipping Heifers with the Donald Family

2011-09-21T09:22:00.000-05:00

On September 15, Cayuse Livestock Company shipped spay heifers from their leased ranch near Columbus, Montana. The heifers headed to Nebraska and the Donalds were happy for payday!

Shipping Day with the Halmes Family

2011-09-20T10:41:00.002-05:00

The Halmes Family of Cascade, Montana gathered steers from the pastures on September 13 to ship to Iowa. The whole family was there helping that day - working together and having a good time! To see all of the photos, click here.
Here is an audio slideshow to hear the sounds of the shipping steers:

Bill on Beef - Ep. 23

2011-09-19T11:13:00.000-05:00

Let's set the scene: You're a rancher in Montana. You've had your herd of cattle grazing all summer and now they're at a selling weight. What happens next? Find out on this week's episode of Bill on Beef!

Beef Partnership Classic 2011

2011-09-16T15:04:00.000-05:00

MSGA's 1st annual Beef Partnership Classic Golf Tournament was held at the Briarwood Golf Course in Billings, Montana last week. The tournament was to help forage partnerships between the ranching community and Montana businesses in order to help tell the Montana family ranching story. To see team photos, click here.

Crazy Mountain Stockgrowers Association's Ranch Roping

2011-09-14T10:07:00.000-05:00

The Crazy Mountain Stockgrowers Association held it's annual ranch roping competition on Sept. 10 at the Sweet Grass County Fairgrounds. The event brings in cowboys from all over the area and raises money for scholarship funds local students. 20 teams of three people roped two heifers and were timed. The team with the shortest amount of time were the winners. To see all of the photos, visit MSGA's FB by clicking here.

Montana Bale Trail: What the Hay?

2011-09-13T06:51:00.000-05:00

On Sunday, the 22nd annual Montana Bale Trail: What the Hay? was held in Hobson, Utica and Windham. It started as a good-natured "spoof" between two neighboring ranchers, this event has now become a nationally recognized celebration and in 2003 was named as Montana's Tourist Event of the Year. Ranchers decorate hay bales, incorporating the word "hay" in their theme somehow. Tourists vote on their favorites as they drive the highway and sightsee. Which one is YOUR favorite?

Bill on Beef - Ep. 22

2011-09-12T09:13:00.000-05:00

BQA - Beef Quality Assurance...what's that all about? Did you know cattlemen have a system in place to make sure they are handling their cattle with care? Learn more on this week's episode of Bill on Beef. You may even see a special guest!!

Research Collaboration & Pregnancy Checking at Cayuse Livestock Company

2011-09-09T07:37:00.000-05:00

Teaming up with Montana State University, Cayuse Livestock Company is helping with research on how minerals affect fertility and weight gain. To see all the photos from the pregnancy checking day, click here.

Mile-Hi Ranch (Malcolm Family)

2011-09-08T07:11:00.000-05:00

On Labor Day, the Malcolm Family gathered cow/calf pairs from the mountainside pastures. They pregnancy checked cows, vaccinated calves and castrated the bull calves. It was a beautiful day of family fun and ranching. To see all the photos from the day, click here.

Indreland Angus Ranch

2011-09-06T10:24:00.001-05:00

Indreland Angus Ranch is a small family owned and operated business located in south central Montana beneath the Crazy Mountains in northern Sweet Grass County. Their beef product is “source verified”; each package has a Product I.D. that ties it to records in every phase of production. "We take pride in producing a natural, aged product that is superior in taste."

Bill on Beef - Ep. 21

2011-09-05T08:18:00.000-05:00

How can a wand and a small disk help cattlemen identify their cattle? This week's topic talks about how electronics play a huge role in cattle identification. Thanks to Monica from Montana for suggesting this week's episode of Bill on Beef.

Wang Family Ranch

2011-09-02T09:38:00.000-05:00

Images from Wang Family Ranch in Baker, Montana. I didn't get to spend much time there, but plan to go back sometime soon! Dean Wang is on the board of directors for the Montana Stockgrowers Association. Click here to see them all.

2011 Montana Environmental Stewardship Award Winners

2011-08-31T09:07:00.000-05:00

For the past half century, Bill and Joyce Almy have worked to improve the natural sustainability-and profitability-of the 22,000 acres of Keystone Ranches, Inc. Through innovative water and grazing management, supported by cooperation with various agencies, they have raised the carrying capacity of the land by almost 50%, cut their debt-to-asset ratio from 55% to under 15%, improved wildlife habitat, maintained long-term relationships with employees, and supported their eastern Montana community. Keystone Ranches, Inc. is the 2011 Montana Environmental Stewardship Award winners.

6 Bar S Ranch (Smith Family)

2011-08-30T10:15:00.000-05:00

The Smith Family operates 6 Bar S Ranch in Glen, Montana. A day at the ranch... cows, calves, and riding horses. Doesn't get much better! Click here to see all the photos from my trip.

Bill on Beef - Ep. 20

2011-08-29T09:22:00.001-05:00

On this week's episode, Bill and the crew check to see if these heifers are pregnant and talks about why it's important that they are. But what happens if they aren't? Find out by watching Bill on Beef!

Montana Educational Heritage Foundation Scholarship

2011-08-25T08:06:00.000-05:00

MSGA's Research, Education and Endowment Foundation distributes the Montana Educational Heritage Foundation Scholarship to one college student, wishing to have a career in ranching. This year's recipient was Elizabeth Smith of 6 Bar S Ranch in Glen, Montana. In this video, Elizabeth talks about why she is thankful to have received the scholarship and her hopes for her future. If you're interested in applying for next year's scholarship, please contact the MSGA office.

Keystone Ranches, Inc.

2011-08-24T09:30:00.000-05:00

Montana Cattle Crawl 2011

2011-08-23T14:25:00.000-05:00

Weebee’s, Gallatin Gateway Inn, and the Mint Bar and Café dished up their own unique takes on beef during the 5th Annual Montana Cattle Crawl on Sunday in Bozeman, Mont. The Cattle Crawl, held prior years in Billings, is a project of the Young Stockgrowers committee of the Montana Stockgrowers Association (MSGA) to acquaint urban beef consumers with local ranchers and to encourage foodservice establishments to feature beef in a creative way. It is funded by Montana beef producers and checkoff dollars. To see the full photo album, click here.

Bill on Beef - Ep. 19

2011-08-22T09:09:00.000-05:00

Community support is what many rural ranches rely upon. On this week's episode, Bill talks about why there are so many ranches over 100 years old in the town of Melville, Montana.

NCBA's Young Cattlemen's Conference

2011-08-19T09:56:00.000-05:00

Each year, a group of cattlemen tour the nation for NCBA's Young Cattlemen's Conference. The trip takes them to Denver, Chicago and D.C. The goal of the tour is not only to educate these cattlemen on the country's beef industry, but also develop their leadership skills. This year, the Montana Stockgrowers Association sent Collin Gibbs on the trip. In this video, learn from Collin why he thinks this experience is irreplaceable. Thanks to Collin Gibbs and Tammi Didlot for some of the photos.

Sherry Stoner

2011-08-18T09:28:00.000-05:00

What's better than spending the day with cattle? Sherry Stoner thinks nothing is! Click here to see all of the photos from my day with this great cowgirl.

A Passion for Cattle - Sherry Stoner

2011-08-17T07:37:00.000-05:00

Sherry Stoner is quite the cowgirl. She loves all things about cattle and shares her passion for them in this video slideshow. I spent the day with Sherry checking cow/calf pairs in summer pasture.

Rose Cattle Company on Wedding Day

2011-08-16T08:18:00.000-05:00

It was time to leave the ranch for a day at Rose Cattle Company and celebrate the marriage of two great people! Click here for more photos!

Bill on Beef - Ep. 18

2011-08-15T08:26:00.001-05:00

What do ranchers feed to the cattle during the rough Montana winters? What's with all of the machinery out in the fields right now? On this week's episode, Bill explains the need for all of that hay!

Breeding Heifers at Cayuse Livestock Company

2011-08-15T08:11:00.000-05:00

NCBA president Bill Donald, and family, bred heifers using artificial insemination. To understand why they have chosen to do this, watch Bill on Beef episode 17 posted below. There are photos from my visit there and to see them, click here.

Martin-Morse Livestock Slideshow

2011-08-12T08:54:00.000-05:00

Diane Morse shares her family's history on the ranch since 1894 and talks about raising her own family there. Her husband Joe shares his love of beef and problems he had to overcome during his life.

Martin-Morse Livestock

2011-08-09T09:39:00.000-05:00

Martin-Morse Livestock was established in 1894 in Two Dot, Montana. Joe and Diane currently reside on the property with their sons and run the ranch. Joe suffered from encephalitis, but still helps out on the ranch. The Morse family loves the ranching lifestyle and being able to work together. To see all the photos from my visit, click here.

Bill on Beef - Ep. 17

2011-08-08T09:16:00.000-05:00

It's time to "Git Her Done" at Cayuse Livestock Company. On this week's episode, Bill explains artificial insemination and why some ranchers use this tool on their females.

Lewis and Clark County 4-H Steer Show

2011-08-05T09:13:00.000-05:00

4-H teaches youth about livestock care, responsibility, and showmanship. At the 2011 Lewis and Clark County 4-H Steer Show, 4-H participants put all of those qualities to use and presented their animals for judging. To see all of the photos, click here.

Meuli Ranch

2011-08-04T08:42:00.000-05:00

Moving bulls and haying...summertime activities on Montana's ranches with help from family members at Meuli Ranch. To see all of the photos, click here.

Montana Ford Dealers and MSGA

2011-08-02T10:08:00.000-05:00

How would you like to win a new Ford Truck? MSGA’s largest sponsor, Montana Ford Dealers, will be giving away a Ford F-250 Super Duty at MSGA’s annual convention in Billings. You must be present to win and must be a member of the Stockgrowers. To enter for your chance to win the truck, please contact MSGA at (406) 442-3420. And be sure to thank your local Ford dealer for their support of MSGA.

Bill on Beef - Ep. 16

2011-08-01T08:58:00.000-05:00

Why do cattle eat grass? What is the difference between summer and winter grass? These questions are answered on this week's episode of Bill on Beef. How is YOUR summer grazing going?

Keller Ranch

2011-07-31T11:39:00.000-05:00

Mike and Paulette Keller ranch near Lloyd, Montana. Paulette served as Montana CattleWomen president a few years ago. They were the lucky winners of the Ford F-150 at the 2009 MSGA Annual Convention. To see the full photo album from my visit to the Keller Ranch, click here.

"On Call for Cattle" - Churchill Cattle Company

2011-07-27T05:45:00.000-05:00

Dale and Nancy Venhuizen run Churchill Cattle Company in Manhattan, Montana, specializing in registered Herefords.