DeBruycker Charolais: A Century of Excellence in Charolais Cattle Breeding

DeBruycker Charolais: A Century of Excellence in Charolais Cattle Breeding

A Family Legacy Rooted in Quality Genetics and Forward Thinking

The story of DeBruycker Charolais is a tale of dedication, passion, and a century-long commitment to the Charolais breed, deeply intertwined with the history of the American cattle industry. The influence of Charolais cattle on the beef industry in North America is immeasurable, and DeBruycker Charolais stands at the forefront of this transformation.

A Legacy Rooted in Ranching

In the heart of Montana, a family legacy spanning almost 100 years has flourished, with nearly half of this time devoted to raising purebred Charolais cattle and Charolais bulls. The DeBruycker family is a third-generation ranching family, and they've been deeply ingrained in the cattle industry since 1933. The torchbearers of this family-run operation, Lloyd and Jane DeBruycker, are not just ranchers but nationally and internationally recognized leaders in promoting the Charolais breed.

Their journey began in the late 1950s with a single Charolais bull, an acquisition that marked the inception of their enduring love affair with Charolais cattle. The decision to introduce Charolais into their cross-breeding program for commercial cattle proved to be transformative. The gains in red meat production and the remarkable enhancement in beef quality were undeniable. Charolais had proven itself as the breed of choice.

In 1963, the foundation of the DeBruycker Charolais cattle herd was laid with the purchase of 12 percentage heifers from Buddy Cobb. The DeBruyckers' commitment to selecting only the best genetics to advance their program set them on a course of continuous improvement.

A Path to Excellence

Years of hard work followed, and Lloyd DeBruycker's involvement in feeding cattle at a local feedyard became a turning point for their business. The feedyard was more than a facility; it was a tool for improving DeBruycker Charolais cattle in performance, feed efficiency, and carcass quality. It also served as a data collection hub, ensuring that DeBruycker genetics were of top quality.

Staying true to their goals and avoiding industry fads, the DeBruycker family created Charolais cattle known for being easily born, efficient growers with cost-effective gains, and high-quality carcasses. Their dedication to being reputable and trustworthy has resulted in a loyal customer base, with buyers returning year after year.

Pioneers in Innovation

The DeBruyckers were pioneers in developing a 'lease bull program,' which allowed people to access Charolais bulls affordably. This initiative opened the door to a host of new customers for the Charolais breed. The family has also been strong proponents of Charolais crossbred calves, both at auction barns and through private treaty sales.

In the 1970s, the DeBruycker family was involved in a branded beef program called 'Charpak,' packaging and selling Charolais beef under the Charolais name. While no longer in operation, it serves as a testament to their innovative thinking, a quality that continues to drive initiatives in the agricultural industry.

Achieving Excellence

The DeBruycker family has achieved considerable success in various gain and carcass contests across the country, including the prestigious Great Western Beef Expo in Sterling, CO. Their Charolais steers consistently performed well, earning numerous championship awards and reinforcing their belief in the exceptional qualities of Charolais cattle.

Spreading the Charolais Influence

DeBruycker Charolais knowledge and expertise have extended far beyond the ranch's borders. Their successful sales of breeding animals have reached across the United States, Mexico, Canada, and as far as Korea. Semen from DeBruycker herd sires has also found its way to countries like Australia, emphasizing the global demand for top-quality Charolais genetics.

A Commitment to Excellence

The DeBruycker Charolais breeding program thrives on repeat customers and word-of-mouth advertising. The family is renowned for its exceptional customer service and unwavering commitment to promoting the Charolais breed. While some breeders chase after various cattle fads, the DeBruycker family remains steadfast in their commitment to facts over fads. This commitment has resulted in top-quality genetics and herd uniformity.

The DeBruycker vision is crystal clear: to raise cattle that offer the best of calving ease, rapid growth, and top beef prices at the packing plant. Their dedication, commitment, hard work, passion, and belief in the Charolais breed have paid off handsomely. DeBruycker Charolais and their breeding stock have become a benchmark in the cattle industry, reflecting a century of excellence and an enduring commitment to the future.

DeBruycker Charolais
1692 6th Lane NE
Dutton
MT 59433

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