With the recent downturn in cattle markets, many producers are left wondering what they can do to increase profit in the cow herd. With favorable and not so favorable markets alike, good marketing strategies always make a positive impact on net farm income. Hardin County has long had participation in the Tri County Steer Carcass Futurity program, which partners with Iowa State University to retain ownership on home raised feeder calves through the finishing phase, while collecting performance and carcass data that can be used to improve the cow herd for the producer. In 2018-2019, 5 semi loads of steers and heifers from 8 different area producers were enrolled in the program. In addition to retaining ownership, some producers were able to market a percentage of their calf crop through the programs investor group up front, while still realizing added value and receiving complete performance and carcass data.

Most of these producers have made this their main marketing avenue for their calf crop, and plan to do so for several years. As a result, most participating producers report they have made major changes to their management and genetics directly due to participation in the program.