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 2019-2020, Hardin County Extension partnered with Kevin Laurent, UK Beef Extension Associate, to send 4 semi loads of steers and heifers from 12 different area producers were enrolled in the program. 

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.