[Prairie_Beef] Missouri Belted Galloway's

[Kevin Carpenter]

Hi Dan!

Sorry, I just noticed a moderator request to authorize this post.  Would
you like me to add you to this distribution list?  I'm hoping it will
become a more active list discussing the plus and minuses of raising beef
on prairie grasses.

I am a member of the Belted Galloway society, although I currently do not
own any belties.

In fact, I'd like your opinion on my next move.  I currently have 11 head
roaming ~100 acres along with my partners 16 head (including this years
calves).  Rain has been plentiful, and the grass is growing exceptionally
well (especially on the 60 acres we burned this spring).  The current
herds impact is minimal.  Of course, that will change as the year
progresses, the rains stop, and the cows grow.

Still, I'm considering purchasing another 5 head just match my partners. 
He also has some acreage and in exchange for grazing on my larger parcel
he does the routine care of the animals.  I get out there every other
weekend and take care of the property, socialize with the animals, and pay
half their bills, but that's about it.  We currently sell the steers and
excess heifers at the local sales barn.  Everything we have today is mixed
breed, mostly from Angus stock (e.g. black, black with white face, a few
red, etc.)  These are typically what passes through the local sales barn
and what fetches the best prices.  I've been advised that if I get into
Belties, I will suffer come sales time.  That won't be a problem once I
live there full time and set up a direct sales channel, but for now is a
concern.  Full time living on the farm is 5-10 years away.

Would you recommend I start integrating Belties into my herd, or just use
the next 5+ years for general cattlemen education and run with the crowd?

Thanks,

Kevin

> Kevin, My name is Dan Prinster and I own Freeland Prinster Farms in Foley
> Mo. I just received your Quire. I would enjoy chatting with any time. You
> can call me at 636-3228082, or 636-462-5617. I am trying to get my web
> site
> up and it is freelandprinsterfarms.com. Once again thanks for your
> interest
> in belties. There is also the Belted Galloway society web site you can go
> to
> for most beltie needs. Please feel free to call me at any time.
>
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