The percentage of purebred bulls being fed has increased in past years, intensifying management at the lot. With a new batch of fall bull calves beginning to arrive, the Snyders decided to send out letters to their customers asking for tag numbers, birth dates, marketing objectives and vaccination programs. Some will go to video sales, others are sold private treaty, and some go to public auctions. The new management plan will help the Snyders better assist in marketing their customers' cattle. The main things they need from their customers, Lucy says, are accurate records, knowledge of a marketing plan and an established vaccination program.
Some producers do an excellent job providing the right information.
Snyder hopes this new form of management will make the adjustment easier for her customers and for her feedlot. By outlining different management plans and vaccination programs, Snyder is more assured she is meeting the expectations of purebred breeders. Snyder says the commercial end of their breeding program is going to expand in the next few years, along with their bull development. Snyder Livestock uses a professional nutritionist and consults with several veterinarians for advice. J and T Cattle Company Custom Feeding specializes in developing bulls for seedstock producers.