The Iowa Cattlemen’s Association is kicking off the 9th annual statewide Carcass Challenge.
As Iowa’s only statewide fed-beef competition, the ICA Carcass Challenge was created to:
• Showcase Iowa’s beef cattle genetics, feedyard management, and modern technology.
• Offer Iowa’s cattle industry a fun and competitive statewide fed-beef contest to highlight Iowa’s beef production advantages.
• Generate additional non-dues ICA revenue to grow Iowa’s beef business through advocacy, leadership and education.
• Provide leadership and learning opportunities through the ICA Young Cattlemen’s Leadership Program.
Each November, sponsors donate 700 pound steer calves to compete in this prestigious Iowa fed-beef contest. Steers complete 180 to 200 days on feed to an average 1,400 pound, market-ready end point.
Cash prizes and special awards are presented to contributors of the top 10 percent of individual steers based on the “Retail Value per Day on Feed,” recognizing both feedyard performance and end carcass merit. A $5,000 cash prize is awarded to the Champion Steer donor(s). Awards for outstanding individual carcass results are also presented. Every effort is made to deliver maximum cattle efficiency, carcass value and net revenue of all steers.
“We are excited to work with Kennedy Cattle Company of Atlantic, Iowa to feed the steers again this year,” says Casey Allison, Iowa Cattlemen’s Association staff. “Throughout the testing period, we will collect data on the growth progression of each animal by utilizing ultrasound technology, EID’s and recording weights on test, at the interim period and off-test weights.” Steer donors and YCLP participants will receive regular communication throughout the test via email to stay up to date on progress in the feedyard.
The program’s primary sponsor, Elanco, donates all the animal health products for the steers. Other partners include Gregory Feedlots, the Tri-County Steer Carcass Futurity, Shnurman Sire Services, Thielen Trucking, Kooima & Kaemink and First National Bank.
Anyone interested in sponsoring a steer for the Carcass Challenge should call the ICA office at 515-296-2266 or visit www.iacattlemen.org/carcasschallenge.aspx.
