Lee Leachman - A Pioneer in Cattle Breeding and Seedstock Marketing

Lee Leachman - A Pioneer in Cattle Breeding and Seedstock Marketing

In the world of cattle breeding and seedstock marketing, Lee Leachman stands as a visionary leader, pushing the boundaries of innovation and profitability. As the CEO of Leachman Cattle of Colorado, Lee has made significant contributions to the industry, transforming his family's legacy into one of the largest seedstock breeders in the United States.

A Scholar's Start

Lee Leachman's journey into the cattle industry began with a strong foundation in education. He graduated from Harvard University in 1988 with an Honors BA in Economics. This academic background equipped him with a unique perspective that would prove invaluable in his future endeavors.

After completing his undergraduate studies, Lee pursued graduate-level work in animal breeding at Colorado State University, further honing his expertise in the field. Armed with a combination of economics and animal breeding knowledge, he was well-prepared to make a significant impact in the cattle industry.

Family Roots in Cattle Breeding

Lee's entry into the world of cattle breeding was a family affair. He joined his father, Jim, and brother, Seth, at Leachman Cattle Company, based in Billings, Montana. Together, they embarked on a journey that would transform their family business into the largest beef seedstock company in North America.

A Move to Colorado and Innovative Indexes

In 2003, Lee Leachman relocated to Colorado and founded Leachman Cattle of Colorado. It was here that the company embarked on groundbreaking work that would redefine cattle breeding and seedstock marketing.

In 2004, the company initiated large-scale data collection on feed intake and conversion, laying the foundation for data-driven decision-making. The pivotal moment came in 2005 when Dallas Horton posed a crucial question: "Which of our sale bulls will make the most money in my commercial operation?" This question sparked the company's pursuit of innovative indexes that could predict profitability.

Today, Leachman Cattle of Colorado offers three pioneering indexes:

1.  $Ranch: This index predicts a bull's daughter profitability, assuming that calves are sold at weaning.

2.  $Feedlot: Predicting a bull's offspring profitability in the feedlot and on the rail, this index is used to project the value of feeder calves at market.

3.  $Profit: This index forecasts profit from conception to harvest, offering a comprehensive view of profitability.

Expanding Horizons and Strategic Partnerships

Lee Leachman's vision has led the company to market Angus, Red Angus, Stabilizer, and Charolais bulls produced from a pool of 12,000 females across over 45 cooperator herds. Selection objectives are primarily based on the company's proprietary indexes, setting new standards for genetic selection.

Apart from seedstock marketing, the company has ventured into semen marketing, custom semen collection through Rocky Mountain Sire Services, and data services through $Profit Share, which provides EPD and index calculation services to other seedstock and commercial producers.

The Leachman database now includes over 1.2 million animals and annually receives data on more than 30,000 calves from over 100 herds across five countries. Lee Leachman has strategically partnered with Zoetis to enhance the accuracy of the Leachman genetic selection program through genomics while enabling commercial ranchers to make better replacement heifer decisions using Zoetis' Inherit DNA product.

A Leader in the Industry

Lee Leachman's influence extends to various industry groups, including the National Cattlemen's Beef Association, various breed associations, and the Beef Improvement Federation, where he served as President. He also sits on the board of directors for the Beef Improvement Company in York, UK. Lee frequently shares his insights and expertise with cattlemen both in the United States and internationally.

Family and Community

Beyond his professional achievements, Lee and his wife, Lisa, are active members of their community in Fort Collins, Colorado. They enjoy spending time with their son, Graham, and his wife, Jenn. Lee and Lisa are passionate about traveling and actively engage in their church community through small groups and marriage ministry.

Lee Leachman's journey from academia to cattle breeding and seedstock marketing exemplifies the power of education, innovation, and a commitment to excellence. His pioneering work continues to shape the future of the cattle industry, inspiring others to embrace data-driven decision-making and redefine standards of profitability.

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