By Carol Ann Gregg

Allied News Staff Writer

Angus breeders from around the state gathered at the farms of John and David McCullough, Coolspring Township, and the McKean Brothers Farm, to swap stories, view some excellent cattle and to return home with a new idea or two.

The annual Pennsylvania Angus Field Day began last weekend with a cookout, featuring Angus burgers served up at the McCullough Coolspring Corn Maze.

Saturday morning kicked off with tours of the McCullough and McKean operations, both of which boasted great cattle.

David McCullough demonstrated his operation’s bale processor, which moves the bale, then chops and spreads it to bed the free stall feedlot – all without the operator ever leaving the tractor seat. He explained that they are also able to use this piece of equipment, with some adjustments, to spread out a row of chopped hay along a fence row for winterfeed.

Bryce Schumann, executive vice president of the American Angus Association, spoke after lunch on Saturday. He encouraged the breeders to take part of the AngusSource, a USDA Process Verified Program for Angus-sired calves that documents source, group age and a minimum of 50 percent Angus genetics. The program helps cattlemen take advantage of the premiums available for Angus cattle in the market.

Schumann spent a lot of time visiting with the farmers and explaining what is available to them through the national association to improve their herds and their bottom lines.

Mack McCulley, Certified Angus Beef development director, and his family were also in attendance. McCulley spoke about Certified Angus Beef and how this program is encouraging shoppers to purchase Certified Angus Beef in the supermarkets. The program is bringing premium prices for quality, Angus beef.

Article published Aug. 22, 2009 in Allied News. Pick up a copy at 201A Erie St., Grove City.