Looking for some information

[UT Champie]

Our ranch is situated about an hour or two oustide Phoenix, very mountainous terrain. I was wondering if anyone could point me in the direction where I can find good information on beef cattle breeds, especially ones suited for raising in the mountains of Phoenix. I've found a few good articles from various University websites however a lot of it is from 10+ years ago, so I'm trying to find something more recent.

We are in the middle of round-up currently and since it is the first in a long time I'm not sure what breeds and what amount we have. As far as I can tell we have a pretty varied bag of breeds, but I would like to focus on just one or two types once I get down there and take over operations. I'm doing research each and every day in preparation so any guidance would be greatly appreciated.

 

[Hippie Rancher]

I would sort and keep the best-doing of whatever you've got. In rugged, tough terrain you will have a big advantage with animals that know the country. Especially if you are just a beginner. Talk to your neighbors, listen to them.

Where abouts? I'm in the AZ too.

 

[Kingfisher]

Our ranch is situated about an hour or two oustide Phoenix, very mountainous terrain. I was wondering if anyone could point me in the direction where I can find good information on beef cattle breeds, especially ones suited for raising in the mountains of Phoenix. I've found a few good articles from various University websites however a lot of it is from 10+ years ago, so I'm trying to find something more recent.

We are in the middle of round-up currently and since it is the first in a long time I'm not sure what breeds and what amount we have. As far as I can tell we have a pretty varied bag of breeds, but I would like to focus on just one or two types once I get down there and take over operations. I'm doing research each and every day in preparation so any guidance would be greatly appreciated.

If your just starting.......get some local cows.............or some Texas Longhorns! :)

 

[UT Champie]

Thanks for the advice from both of you, sounds like a good way to start out. I've learned how to run a business, but I am just starting to learn about cows.

I am situated outside Phoenix, not far from Lake Pleasant. Hot as hell, but one of the most beautiful places I've been.

 

[msscamp]

Our ranch is situated about an hour or two oustide Phoenix, very mountainous terrain. I was wondering if anyone could point me in the direction where I can find good information on beef cattle breeds, especially ones suited for raising in the mountains of Phoenix.

Phoenix is a big enough city that they have colleges, universities, and trade schools don't they? Check and see if those institutes of learning have any agriculture courses and ask them. Another option would be to check with your county extension office. A 3rd option would be to ask vets in your county or adjoining counties. A 4th option would be to google cattlemen's groups/associations and talk to them. A 5th option would be to take a drive around your area and talk to people who are currently raising cattle in your area. A 6th option would be to hang out at your local sale barn, check out the animals being brought in and talk to their owners. A 7th option would be to google your local climate and see what came up, and do some research. I don't mean to sound nasty or flippant here, but this is not rocket science. I wish you the best in your endeavor. :)

 

[UT Champie]

No worries haha I am glad to take any and all advice I can get. I've already started on some of those options and will be sure to try them all in time. I'm still finishing my last quarter at the University of California, Santa Barbara so it won't be till near the end of summer that I actually move back to Phoenix and begin the venture in earnest. Thanks for the feedback, it is really appreciated.

 

[Scroote]

university is just going to say BLACK!

 

[Kingfisher]

university is just going to say BLACK!

Better put some swimming pools in for em!

 

[msscamp]

university is just going to say BLACK!

Maybe, maybe not. There are still cattlemen and women out there who have not bought into the black craze. Granted, they are in small number - but they do still exist. There is also the fact that it is up to the prospective buyer to do his/her homework on any breed suggested in order to make a knowledgeable(sp?) decision.

 

[Kingfisher]

Thanks for the advice from both of you, sounds like a good way to start out. I've learned how to run a business, but I am just starting to learn about cows.

I am situated outside Phoenix, not far from Lake Pleasant. Hot as be nice, but one of the most beautiful places I've been.

What sort of " business" are you in? Thanks in advance.

 

[UT Champie]

Two different start-ups, one is developing a new mobile clock-in program for jobs involving a lot of field work. The other designs and manufactures surfboards out a (fairly) new material. Plus countless other mock businesses done through school. The new mobile program (not really an "app") is actually looking at its first round of venture capital funding.

These are a long throw away from what I am trying to do now, but my passion for my family's old ranch is just too much to ignore!

 

[ga.prime]

I always liked the styrofoam surfboards.