CATTLE

Spade Ranches run approximately 5,750 momma cows and 1,500 stockers annually. The Spades has employed a planned crossbreeding program since the late 1960’s and it continues today; although it is changing with the changing market demands. Today the ranches use composite bulls, Simm/ Angus and Balancer which is a Gelbvieh/Angus cross. The heifers from one mating are crossed to the other composite which maintains a high level of heterosis while producing a uniform calf crop, a stable breed composition and eliminates the need to buy replacement heifers from other sources.

Most all the calves are weaned for a minimum of 45 days before leaving the ranch and receive shots at branding, at weaning and 10 days to 2 weeks after weaning. Some of the lighter calves are retained through the winter and sold as yearlings in the late summer or early fall of the next year. Spade Ranches participates in a few value-based marketing programs. All of Spade Ranch calves can be Source and Age Verified (SAV). In addition to SAV, some calves can also be verified Non-Hormone Treated. Feel free to contact the office if you have any interest in the cattle program.