Callahan says it's logistically more manageable to work with herds of 100 head or more and to contract truckloads of cattle. As the program grows, he hopes to accommodate and work with smaller producers, backgrounding and sorting smaller groups into larger uniform groups. Callahan says they expect producers marketing cattle through the program to follow Express Ranches' vaccination protocol or an equivalent program. Ownership options Commercial producers interested in the program have several ownership options. Express will buy calves before placing them on feed, or if producers choose they can retain an interest throughout the feeding and harvesting process.
All customers receive feedlot performance and carcass data.
Starr says he appreciates the opportunity to track the cattle. Express aggressively bids on calves based on the current market or forward contracts the calves. Future opportunities for program participants might include premiums for cattle meeting Certified Angus Beef specifications. Most program calves are backgrounded on small-grain pastureland or native grass. Program cattle are currently fed at two Oklahoma feedlots - Hitch Enterprises, Guymon, and Wheeler Brothers Feedyard, Watonga.