The Evolution of Excellence: Leachman Cattle of Colorado
Since its inception in 2003, Leachman Cattle of Colorado (LCoC) has been a beacon of innovation and excellence in the cattle industry.
The Evolution of Excellence: Leachman Cattle of Colorado
Since its inception in 2003, Leachman Cattle of Colorado (LCoC) has been a beacon of innovation and excellence in the cattle industry. Founded by Lee Leachman and Dallas Horton, this multi-generational ranching operation has left an indelible mark on the sector, from seedstock to cow/calf and feedlot. In this article, we'll delve into the journey of LCoC and the principles that have guided its remarkable evolution.
A Legacy of Profitability
In the 1990s, the Horton family embarked on a pioneering journey by conducting a sire progeny test aimed at measuring profitability from birth to slaughter. This groundbreaking test, designed to estimate genetic differences in terms of dollars, marked the genesis of a transformative era. Dallas Horton's unwavering commitment to selecting bulls that would yield higher profits led to the exploration of feed efficiency, eventually culminating in the development of the renowned $Profit index.
In 2009, the reins of this visionary company were passed to Mike Browning and Lee Leachman, laying the foundation for a new chapter in the company's history. Joining them in this journey were Tim & Shirlene Watts. Today, LCoC calls 2056 West CR 70, Fort Collins, CO, home, and annually markets over 2000 bulls, including Angus, Red Angus, Stabilizer Composites, and Charolais. Their commitment remains unwavering - to use the most advanced breeding and selection tools available to raise cattle that are not just profitable but more profitable.
Specialized Lines for a Complex World
LCoC recognizes that a one-size-fits-all approach doesn't work in the modern cattle industry. The complexities of the market demand specialized solutions, and LCoC delivers. They raise three distinct lines of maternal cattle: Angus, Red Angus, and STABILIZER™ Composites, while their terminal line is Charolais.
One of the key challenges they've tackled is the balance between cow size and carcass weight. By moderating size and measuring feed intake, they've successfully produced cows that consume less feed. Simultaneously, they've addressed the need for higher carcass weights to boost feedlot profitability. In an industry where others aim to provide one bull that does it all, LCoC's approach of specialization has set them apart.
Indexes That Speak Volumes
LCoC employs two pivotal indexes to guide their breeding programs: $Ranch™, which predicts maternal profitability, and $Profit®, forecasting profitability from birth to harvest. These indexes, combined with meticulous selection and a vast animal database of 1.2 million, enable LCoC to make precise breeding decisions. Every bull they sell comes with these invaluable indexes, empowering customers to compare maternal and overall strengths effortlessly.
Quality in Volume
Each year, LCoC markets over 2,000 bulls and 2,000 females, an impressive testament to their quality and volume. These bulls are produced through a network of cooperator producers and via embryo transplant. LCoC's cooperators, who own the cows and land, receive invaluable support in breeding, selection, and marketing services. Over 75% of cooperator calf crops are AI-sired, with an additional 15% produced by ET. Only the top 50% of cooperator male calves are selected for performance testing and sale as bulls, showcasing the commitment to excellence ingrained in every aspect of LCoC's operations.
Delivering Excellence, Guaranteed
LCoC holds a spring sale every third week in March, in addition to selling bulls year-round at regional sales and via private treaty. For customer convenience, bulls are delivered to major stockyards across the country throughout the year. Importantly, LCoC's bulls are backed by a reputation for quality and come with a satisfaction guarantee. Many bulls are purchased sight-unseen, and once delivered, they carry a full one-year guarantee. If a bull becomes unable to breed cows for any reason, the buyer receives a credit towards the purchase of a future bull.
In summary, Leachman Cattle of Colorado's journey is one of constant evolution, driven by innovation, specialization, and an unswerving commitment to customer satisfaction. As they continue to shape the future of the cattle industry, their legacy of excellence remains steadfast, and their reputation as pioneers endures.
Leachman Cattle Company
2056 West CR 70
Fort Collins, CO 80524
Phone: 970-568-3983
Email: info@leachman.com