Listen to KC And Simmental’s Luke Bowman

The American Simmental Association (ASA) recently held its annual “Fall Focus” event, a traveling symposium for Simmental breeders and industry members. The event, which relocates to a different venue each year, is designed to serve as an educational forum for producers.

In a recent conversation with Farm Director KC Sheperd, Luke Bowman, the Director of Operations for the American Simmental Association (ASA), discussed the success of their annual “Fall Focus” event. The symposium, held in a different location each year, brought together Simmental breeders and other industry professionals in Columbia, Missouri, to discuss important topics and learn from experts.

Pics courtesy of the ASA FB Page

Highlights from the Fall Focus

The symposium featured several high-profile speakers and tours. Attendees had the opportunity to:

Tour the University of Missouri’s agricultural department and the Cattle Visions bull stud.

Learn about heifer-rearing projects with extension experts.

Enjoy a social evening at Warm Springs Ranch, home of the Budweiser Clydesdales.

Guest speakers included the governor of Missouri, the president of the University of Missouri, and the director of the Missouri State Department of Agriculture. The event’s key sessions focused on topics directly impacting producers, including a discussion on the “paradox” of increasing cow size to meet consumer demand and its effect on profitability.

Dr. Alison Meyer of the University of Missouri and Dr. Jamie Porter discussed the implications of cow size and the use of genetic tools to improve cow efficiency. Another session with Dr. Randy Culbertson centered on the critical topic of heifer development. The article notes that Simmental genetics can be particularly helpful in this area, as the cattle tend to be leaner than some British breeds, making it easier for producers to manage their weight and ensure future productivity. A roundtable discussion also explored the future of beef production and its economics.

Looking Ahead for the Simmental Association

With Fall Focus complete, the ASA is now preparing for its winter “show season.” This busy period includes shows and events across the country, starting at the American Royal in Kansas City, Missouri, and continuing to the North American in Louisville, Kentucky. The association will also be in Oklahoma City for the Cattlemen’s Congress, an event they have supported since its inception.

During these shows, the association will also hold board meetings and sales. Luke Bowman emphasized the importance of these events for members and the broader industry. The full board of directors, including newly installed trustees, will be in attendance at Cattlemen’s Congress to discuss policy and better serve their members.

The All-Around Package: The Value of Simmental Genetics

The conversation also highlighted the unique value of Simmental genetics. As a composite breed, Simmental cattle are known for providing an all-around package of desirable traits. They are praised for:

Extra growth and muscle

High milk production

Good calving ease

Superior beef quality

Simmental genetics are a great complement to other breeds that may struggle with specific traits, such as those that get too fat or lack sufficient muscle. The breed’s ability to offer a complete package of genetics makes them a valuable asset to both purebred and crossbreeding operations.

For More information and all upcoming events, you can visit ASA’s website.