The unquestioned objective for Deer Track Farm is to improve the genetics of the Hereford breed. To build a better cow. To build a better bull. For a small breeder to have such a lofty goal may not be realistic, as it takes many tries and many failures to make progress. This understanding is the first step towards our goal. The quality of our 50 cow herd needs to match the quality of the top 50 cows in a 200 cow herd. The point here is that an extremely critical eye will be kept on this herd's performance. The culling of animals based on poor performance is essential to meeting our goal. This will raise the quality of replacements that go into our herd and raise the quality of the cattle we offer for sale.
Over our first 7 years we have built a strong foundation of genetics. Many cows were purchased and many cows were culled. It truly has been a learning experience. We are entering a new phase in the continuing development of our herd with a vision and a plan to build the next generation of Deer Track Farm cattle. Continued use of A/I and embryo transfer technology will remain key to raising the quality of our calves. We have had many successes over the years and look forward to an exciting future.
While studying the history of the Hereford breed, we found the greatest successes have come when linebreeding was used. The original Victor Cattle were the result of linebreeding programs. The original Hereford cattle in the United States were raised to prominence with Anxiety 4th in a very successful linebreeding program. Our program utilizes linebreeding to gain consistency and quality.
Working with our friends in the Virginia Hereford Association (VHA), we have developed some tools to assist in improving our ability to raise quality cattle. We utilize the VHA Heifer Feed Program to develop our heifers and expand our capacity. The VHA Steer Feed Program also expands our capacity and allows us to develop our steers, enabling us to collect important carcass data when we sell directly to the slaughter house. Finally, but not the least, we utilize the VHA Bull Development Program. This, too, expands our capacity giving us the opportunity to develop our bulls and measure their performance against a larger contemporary group. These additional tools are essential to meeting our goal of improving the genetics of the Hereford breed.
There is not a long agricultural history at Deer Track Farm. We are going to use this as an advantage. We have no preconceived ideas and have an open mind towards new ideas. Applying the principles of good business we will develop and bring to market a quality product. Most importantly, we will enjoy working with the cattle and working with all of you. Deer Track Farm has a great deal of confidence that it will have a positive impact on the Hereford breed.
Below are navigational buttons to take you through the herd. Look them over and feel free to call with your comments or suggestions.
