EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 
BUSINESS AND GENETIC DESCRIPTION  
OVERVIEW OF THE BAR 5 OPERATIONS
BAR 5 BREEDING GOAL DEVELOPMENTS
BAR 5 BREEDING PRODUCTION TARGETS & GOALS 
BAR 5 BEEF CATTLE & GENETIC LINES
THE MANAGEMENT TEAM
APPENDIX 1 - THE SIMMENTAL INDUSTRY
APPENDIX 2 - THE ANGUS INDUSTRY
APPENDIX 3 - THE BEEF PRODUCTION INDUSTRY

2007 Bar 5 Genetic Breeding & Production Program - for PDF "Printable" Version 

Prepared by:   Greg Nolan, MBA       Bar 5 Stock Farms Ltd. 

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

"CERTIFIED BAR 5 PREMIUM BEEF" QUALITY PROGRAM
We have developed a Production model based on our 36 years of experience; that is based on a 1-2-3 Production Evaluation Method.

Production Evaluation Methods

We use what we refer to as the "1-2-3" step Process of Genetic Advancement for Measuring; for our Breeding Decisions;

1. Genetic Ancestry - "Cow Families, LINE BREEDING & Genetic Lines" - We have taken great effort to understand & select like cattle of proven good characteristics, with a keen knowledge of the genetic background of the breeds focusing on Cow Families & Sire Lines.

2. Physical Assessment, Actual Measurements and Ratios & Indices -- Visual Inspection - The EYE of The Master - We believe in using our own experience in evaluating cattle for our program; and we believe you should use yours -- through visual inspection to evaluate structural correctness, udders, body condition, docility, hair coats, correctness of feet and legs, & skeletal structure. C) Information Technology - Density, Frame score, Performance, Ultrasound, ABC, %dam, Testicle measurements.

3. Genetic Evaluations – A) University of Guelph “Multi-Breed” EPDs, ( the only ones in the world ); B) Breed Association EPDs, & C) Genomics – DNA markers.

BAR 5 BREEDING STRATEGY

Simmental/Fleckvieh & Angus are Maternal Beef Breeds. Bar 5 believes in the use of both in an effective Crossbreeding Program. However, we realize you cannot make great wine from bad grapes, not can you produce superior breeding cattle from poor stock. The use of hybrid vigour to cover up the poor quality is unforgivable at Bar 5. Yes, we are hardened, & yes, we have culled many - but our experience of almost 10,000 calves through our production system & 10's of thousands more within our customers' herds - has sharpened our eye & hardened our selection criteria. NO PHONIES HERE - just the best bred back to the best we can find. Like cattle bred to Like Cattle.

Bar 5 produces Elite Genetics of the Breeds of Simmental/Fleckvieh, Red Angus & Angus. We use our own bulls in our commercial cowherd. Do want to buy bulls from a producer who does "not" run commercial cows? Our cattle do not see us at night, just the ATV check in the am before coffee to see how the girls are doing, any new calves, make the new tags, record them then head out and weigh the calves, and needle them up.

Yes, we weigh them, everyone. Our birth weights range from 68 to 119 lbs. - the one area consistency is difficult - the cow's genetics, her environment & the weather all work to determine when she will drop the calf; ultimately dictating the gestation & weight; only influenced slightly by the bull used - Calving Ease is a two part equation. The mom & the sire. The mom is the majority of the equation.

Bar 5 Genetic Breeding Strategy is;

Breed Pure blooded & Registered Simmental/Fleckvieh, Red Angus & Angus - then after selection of the superior animals - Use them in a Maternal Crossbreeding System for the efficient production of meat.

Bar 5 Breeding objectives

We breed for functionality. Real world cattle.

Fertility, calving ease, milk, gain, muscle, carcass value, pigmentation, temperment & moderate maturity size.

Pure Genes -- Excellent genetics & pedigree. Accuracy of the pedigree.

Line Breeding -- Line Breeding the genes to create a Stable gene pool, thus increasing predictability. Centuries of breeding have proven this as the magical tool.

Traits -- Fertility, large testicles - high libido and fertile heifers.

Calving Ease - The efficient Beef cow will lie down and have a calf & getting it up and sucking, breed back within the breeding cycle, all the while living within the cowherd's normal management. Bar 5 does not accept cows that do not work in the real world of our cowherd. Bar 5 means real world cows, not tied in a show palace eating oatmeal. Bulls cannot throw large calves.

Maternal - Milk. The only way to raise a big calf. Milk. 50% of calf weight at weaning, we have weighed our cows ar weaning for 35 years, we know what works.

Evaluation - a) Birth, Performance, & Production information - Bar 5, BIO 114 Performance tests & Association EPD/EBV information -- Testing to determine Feed conversion & growth. Frame score to 365 day weight.

Easy Keeping - Density ( AYW/Frame ) to indicate the feeding value of the animal, easy keeper - feed requirements.

Carcass values - to obtain high % cutability. 1 inch of REA to every 100 lbs, moderate back fat & high marbling.

Genetics > For the Elite Breeders
Genetics > For the Commerical producer
Genetics > For the Feedlot operatiors
Genetics > For the Killing Plants
Genetics > For the Retailer
Genetics > For the Consumer.

GENETIC ANCESTRY TARGETS

Known producers free of any disqualifying traits. We like to see "Like mated to Like", for as many generations as possible, even in our cross breds. The more generations of Like cattle, the more predictable the cattle. We have been breeding these Simmental based cattle for 36 years, and know the depth of them. In fact, we even list the complete Sire Top Line heritage on every bull we raise dating back to World War II, we have listed them back to 1945. We are even working on taking it back to 1890.

We eliminate the skeletons in the closet, avoid poor genetics with over compensated traits, and believe Quality breeding stock are a result of consistency in the pedigree, for as many generations as possible. Learn more at " Map Of Genetics " for each breed ( breeds.htm ) We have applied the same principles to the Angus cattle. If we like the genes, we then look at the animal.

cattleinfo.htm
geneticlines.htm
Bar5bulls.htm
Bar5cows.htm

VISUAL INSPECTION GOALS

Visual inspection - We believe in using our own experience, and you should yours, when evaluating cattle for our & your program, through visual inspection to evaluate structural correctness, udders, body condition, docility, hair coats, & skeletal structure. Structural correctness & Visual appraisal are made, and we are impressed, then Information & Carcass data are used in the Planned Mating Program.

How do you score this? You don't; it cuts the cowboys (you just feel it in your gut) from the "Which one do you like?" club. Nothing wrong that either & we urge you to be truthful tom your self.

If you are not that experienced & need help, ask for it, learn from it - those of us that have the gut feel, are just diein' to be asked!

We then have to pleased with what we see, then we go dig up the Information.

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY TARGETS

BW - Be Realistic, Calf weight to Cow weight, we use 5-6%. But make sure you weigh them, guess work is never good here! You will be amazed as they weigh more than you think, the first question we ask our commercial customers is: " Do you weigh your calves? " ..so, Do you ?? Overll breeds an ABC of around 50% or better.

Performance =1250 to 1475+ lbs. at one year, in our experience the bulls over 1550 are not easy keepers, but there are a few; ABC's for WG & YG of over 50%.

Weaning - Index & % of Dam, Index over 100 & try for 50% on bull calves.

Frame score = 5.5 to 7.5,

Density - Aim for over 200 on the AYW/FS; using Actual Height/Weight - 220 or 100 kgs.

Carcass traits = Balanced Carcass Values; moderate rib eye - 50% ABC, & over 1 inch per 100 lbs. - REA/CWT., high marbling % in the 3 or more range & a high ABC, & lower BF of 5-6 mm or ABC of 25% - 74%

ABC - moderate for all traits, never extremes for BIO, South African Simmental-EBV system, & Angus Association EPD's.

SC - Testicle measurements=34 plus at a year, ABC of over 50.

For 15 years we have used the services from the folks at BIO. For each sale lot we provide the C.O.B. INFO BAR & the BIO EPD-ABC Percentile Score Card.

"Bar 5-BIO" Info Format - 4 Target Areas

1. BW & %DB - Weight of calf around 5-6% of cow weight at Birth - Be Realistic, Calf weight to Cow weight, we use 5-6%. Make sure you weigh them, guess work never here! You will be amazed, the first question we ask our commercial customers is: " Do you weigh your calves? " .. Do you ?? ABC of around 50% & Actual BW of 5-6%.

2. Performance =%DW - Weight of calf at weaning to Dam, aim for 50% on bulls, & know the average in your program, ABC's EPD percentile for WG & YG of over 50% & Actual Weaning Index-- Aim for Index over 100. Yearling weights - Keep it 1300 + at one year, or a level for your desired carcass size, and keep your eye on that Density.

3. Density - aim for 200+ on AYW/FS; 220 or 100 kgs. for Actual. AYW/Frame; Aim for over 200 on the AYW/FS, if using using Actual Height/Weight - 220 or 100 kgs.

4. Carcass Traits -- REA per 100 lbs. - REA/CWT over 1. Then take a peak at BF ( 3-6mm ) & Marbling (2 -4.5% ). Balanced Carcass Values; moderate rib eye - 50% ABC EPD, & high marbling +50% ABC in the 3 or more range, & lower BF of 5-6 mm or ABC of 25% - 74%.

For 15 years we have used the services from the folks at BIO. www.biobeef.com For each sale lot we provide the INFO BAR & the BIO EPD-ABC Percentile Score Card.

If you set your Production Targets at these Goals; with solid genetics; that have some eye appeal, you will be well on your way to success. Great success!!

Balance your decision making with Pedigree, Visual & Info Technology, and rely on your gut, Cowboys!

It is our sincere belief that to be successful we need to provide our customers all the way up the value chain, with the right genetic & production information for their evaluation. If you have any questions concerning information, feel free to give Greg, Ron W. or Andreas a call.

GLOSSARY to the "C.O.B." BIO INFORMATION BAR

Birth Date: date of birth.

BW - Actual birth weight, in pounds, as close to birth as possible.

%DB - Actual weight at birth divided Actual weight of Cow at Weaning.

AWW - Adjusted weaning weight adjusted to 200 days of age with age of dam adjustments

W Index - ratio of AWW compared to a contemporary group of calves that have all been treated the same since birth, an indication of mom's milk & performance.

%DW - Percent Dam at Weaning, AWW/Actual Dam weight taken at weaning time.

EOT WT - weight taken at the end of test.

AYW - adjusted 365 day yearling weight.

Height - Hip height the EOT date in inches.

Frame - Frame Score; height adjusted for age to a frame score.

Density - Actual Weight/Hip Inches X 100; an actual reflection of the lbs of muscle relative to the skeletal size of the animal. Can be calculated as AYW/Frame.

Fat - the backfat at the end of test measured with ultrasound in mm's.

Rib Eye - the Actual REA ( rib eye area ) at the end of test measured with ultrasound in square inches.

Marbling - the marbling at end of test measured with ultrasound in percentage of overall.

REA/100 Wt - Rib Eye Ratio X 100 - the rib eye area per 100 lbs of animal - an indication of muscling & muscle distribution of rear quarter to overall carcass.

Scrotal - scrotal circumference taken at end of test in cms.

End of Test Date: Date of Evaluating, as close to a year of age as possible.

ABC % Scorecard: BW, WG, YG, Milk, Marb, REA, Fat, SC
- reported as a % ranking, as explained below.
BIO EPD-ABC Percentile Score Card Line

This is the score based on genetic evaluations called ABCs (ACross Breed EPDs) for each trait measured. Given as a " PERCENTAGE VALUE", for ease of comprehension, not a value which requires knowledge of a another value like breed average? For example, a ABC score of 75 means the animal ranks in the top 25% or 75% are below, of all the animals of all breeds in the BIO data base of over 2.5 million records.

ABC Value - a " PERCENTAGE VALUE" from 1 to 100; given in two formats;

WB% - Within Breed -- Ranks the animal against all animals Within the same Breed in the BIO data base of all the records of the animals breed.

AB% -- Across Breed -- Ranks the animal against all the animals of All Breeds in the BIO data base of over 2.5 million records.

ABC Categories

BW - Birth Weight adjusted for breed & management.

WG - Weaning Gain, performance until 205 days.

YG - Yearling Gain, gain until 365 days.

Milk - Ability to milk for the calf. 4,000 kgs. = 400 kg. calf, normal for SA.

Marb - Comparison of the ability to marble, higher the better.

REA - Square Inches, as compared as the higher the better.

Fat - mm of Backfat, ABC expresses as higher better.

SC - cm of scrotal, expressed as higher the better.

All cattle are source and age verified with records. The data presented is independently measured and prepared by BIO and we look forward to continuing on our relationship with BIO as more records are developed and genetic evaluations become even more accurate. We thank Scott Bothwell for doing the ultrasound scans on our cattle and Nancy & Cynthia for processing our records.

BAR 5 SIMMENTAL STOCK FARMS LTD. FACT SHEET

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BUSINESS AND GENETIC DESCRIPTION

Fullblood Genetic Development - A 36 Year success story !!!

Bar 5 Pure Bloods - While we understand we are in the Beef Industry for the production of red meat; our is focus is we produce Beef cattle with milk, Bar 5 quickly developed a Maternal Focus, while maintaining Milk, Performance, & Efficiencies. Our direct market penetration strategy is based on Bar 5 Maternal Genetics for a Money making Cowherd, using our own designed Pure blood Genetics of Powerful Maternal Genetics - Fleckvieh & Polled Simmental.

For 35 years we have bred the lowered framed Full blood ranch oriented, problem free Simmentals in demand today. We haven't had to change or correct our Bar 5 Fullbloods and paint them a different colour, we just needed more Genetic Lines like them! We have taken the same cattle to town from 1976 at the first Simmental shows here in North America , to shows all over Canada , Brazil & United States. We have been Premier Breeder & Exhibitor in 4 different decades !!!! No other Simmental operation in the world has these bragging rights !!!

Genetics are everything. We know that we are producing bulls to deliver genes to your cows. We do not close our eyes to the ancestry of our cattle, we use Lines & our knowledge of them to understand what we have and how to use it. We Line Breed and we are proud of it. The 35 year history of Bar 5 records & & improvements have built our abilities.

We rolled into Denver in 1994 with our small framed 7.0 & 7.5 Extra Best power bulls, took Reserve Grand Champion Pen and blew them away - when we returned in 1995; they slammed us with a low milk EPD - where are these people today, browsing our semen brochure for new Blood. They are still using Genetics we developed in 1972 - they got EPD's, and we got a 30 year Genetic Lead !!!!

Signal. Abricot, Achilles - are Line Bred 4, 5, or 6 times in each Red & Black North American SR & SB - We will change this. We will knock them down to where they will be efficient producers of Red Meat.

Bar 5 - 7,000 Fullbloods sold !!!!!!!!!!! We were the largest Fullblood breeder in the world from 1972 until 1978 and again, from 1982 until 2001, choosing to reduce down for this OF "SA" & "FF" Fleckvieh program expansion. The same philosophy today is in place for our Fullblood operation as it was in 1969 - high performing Maternal cattle for a money making Cowherd. Our Fullblood Simmental cattle stop the escalation of birth weight and mature size... without sacrificing type or performance.

Efficient Beef production is our only goal !!! If it is yours, please join our customer list, if it not, thanks for reading this, we do not want you on our customer list.

BAR 5 GENETIC LINES

Elite Genetic Lines
geneticlines.htm

Elite Bulls in the Bar 5 Program
Bar5bulls.htm  

GLOSSARY for CERTIFIED ONTARIO BEEF

Breed Name Indicators

100% Fleckvieh - 100%  traceable to German/Austrian descent
Full Fleckvieh -  at least 31/32 of Fleckvieh breeding
SA - South African genetics sourced 100% from Germany/Austria
SR - Simmental Red - Polled Purebred Simmental
SB - Simmental Black - Polled Purebred Simmental
FB - Fullblood Simmental - 100% Imported Simmental from Europe
AN - Aberdeen Angus - 100% Angus breeding
AR - Red Angus - 100% Angus breeding
AS -- SimmAngus   =  Angus + Simmental;  Angus Sired, or Simmental Sired on cow of opposite.

Definition of Terms

Fullblood or Pureblood – 100% blood of a Breed; and the animal registered & accepted in a Breed Association as such. In the case of Simmental Fleckvieh, 100% of the imported breed from Continental Europe, or Continental Europe via other countries such as South Africa, Ireland, England, New Zeland & Australia.

Purebred – An animal accepted for Registration in a breed Association of 3 crosses or more for females & 4 or more for bulls of Registered breeding stock, bred up from domestic stock. As defined in the Livestock Pedigree Act of Canada.

Cross Breeding Defined here for future reference.

A. Hybrid

A specific percentage of two or more breeds in one animal. ½, ¾ and other Hybrid combinations. F-1, F-2 (three cross) , F-3- three cross & four cross.

“Hybrid breeding” – Is the breeding and crossing of different breeds and percentages. 1/2 blood bull to a ¾ cow, or a Purebred bull to a ½ blood cow, etc……

If a defined Hybrid is used of the same percentage Sire & Dam, this is referred to as “Hybrid Composite Breeding”, or “Composite Breeding – of defined Hybrids Sire & Dam.”

If Hybrid Breeding is used for one (1) to six (6) crosses, this forms a “Composite” or “Hybrid Composite” animal of defined Hybrid percentages, as the animal is a Composite of Hybrid breeding.

Many groups & organiztions define a new Breed from one (1) to (6) crosses, here it is defined as a new Breed after seven (7) crosses or eight ( 8) generations of defined Hybrid Composite Breeding. .

F-1 Hybrid -- First cross of two breeds; produced by two registered parents of two different breeds. 50% of one breed & 50% of a second breed. Used in name designations for identification,

F-2 Hybrid -- a) the use of a straight bred bull of one of the breeds of the F-1 on the F-1 female, to form an “F-2 ¾ blood” or a straight bred bull of a third breed to form a “ Three cross F-2”; or

b) the use of a F-1 Bull to form an “F-2 ½ blood” and/or “F-2 SimmAngus.”;

F-3 Hybrid -- a) the use of a straight bred on a F-2 to form the F-3, if the F-2 was a ¾ and the same breed is used can be registered as a “7/8 Purebred”; or

b) the use of another breed straight bred bull for the “Four cross F-3”; or

c) the use of a F-1 or F-2 bull on the F-2 to form the “F-3 ½ blood or SimmAngus.”

B. Composite – Composite Formula Breeding

A defined Hybrid Breeding combination of two or more breeds AND the same blood percentages of the different breeds are used in a planned mating; to form a composite formula. If the same Breed & Percentage “Hybrid”s are used for 1, 2 or 3 crosses or 4 generations, a Composite is formed. Many call the first same Hybrid cross a Composite.

Composite Breeding -- If a defined Composite is used of the same percentage Sire & Dam, this is referred to as “Composite Breeding”,

Composite Breed
If Composite Breeding is used for 3 crosses, this forms a “Composite Breed” or “Breed” to some. The gene pool is stabilized after four (4) crosses in our opinion. Three more crosses are needed to stabilize and from a predictable breeding gene pool. Some refer to the first cross as a Composite Breed, or even the first Hybrid Cross as a Breed or Composite or Composite Breed.

Breed
Defined as the use for seven (7) crosses or eight (8) generations the use of the same “Composite” combination of blood percentages of different breeds to form breeds characteristics; a Breed is realized.

And then it starts all over again !!! Aberdeen, Angus, too many examples to name to form the breeds we know today, which will have been used to form the new breeds of tomorrow.

Half Bloods

Simm Cross - The use of a registered Simmental bull on a cow, but the cow is unknown or unregistered. A registered Simmental Sire can be used, and within the Canadian Simmental Association, halfbloods used to obtain a ¾ blooded female & 7/8 females, for registration as Purebred Stock. 

Angus Cross - The use of an Angus bull on an unregistered cow. Cannot be used for registration in the Canadian Angus Association.

SIMMENTAL FLECKVIEH

Bar 5 has been a leader in Fullblood Simmental genetics for 35 years. Bar 5 and its staff focus on producing superior breeding Fullblood cattle using "Genetic Lines" & Evaluation Tools for identification and advancement of the Bar 5 Fullblood Breeding Program.

Line Breeding is the key to success. We study the other breeds and understand what they are doing. For 35 years, we have used Line Breeding to lock in the genetic power of the good ones. We limit the bad blood & build on the Good Blood. Bar 5 Lines.

"Simmentaler Fleckvieh" is a Beef Breed - "The World's Maternal Beef Breed"

The Beef Strategy      Muscle. Milk.  Performance. Easy Keepers  

Muscle. Performance.

"Simmental Fleckvieh" is a moderate framed beef breed, with a very high milk output. The growth performance of the breed is equal to that of the highest Terminal Beef Breeds, and in fact, is the highest gaining beef breed in the Maternal breeds.

Milk

The milk output is the highest of any Beef breed, which has led the breed to be the breed most favorable to Cross Breed on the world's most successful regional cattle; to make Simmental Fleckvieh the Number Beef Breed in the World for crossbreeding.

Pure Blooded Simmental Fleckvieh - We need breeders to focus on developing forward the genetics lines of the "OF" Simmental Fleckvieh; thus producing pure blooded animals for two purporses;

1)     The continuance of the Pure Blooded Genetic Pool.

2)     Increase the pool of pure blooded animals to CrossBreed other animals.

Easy Keepers

At Bar 5 we will continue to raise the same Simmental Fleckvieh we have for 35 years, lower framed, easy keeping, money making Beef Cows. We have not had to change or alter our cattle for 35 years, we always raised the right kind.  Yes, we changed a few years back to OF Genetics because we could not access more from Switzerland & France, so the future was German & Austrian. We found the "OC" alive in SA with "OF" genetics.

Simmentaler Fleckvieh - Milk. Muscle. Performance. Easy Keepers.

SIMMENTAL FLECKVIEH - THE NUMBER ONE CHOICE FOR CROSSBREEDING !!!! 

 ANGUS

Moderate Maternal, Low Mainteneance with high marbling; The North American success story. The largest herdbook in North America.

So in 2002, We chose to add a few Red Angus to the program at first to add some true half bloods to our commercial cows; but we fell in love !! Saskatoon & Mercedes walk the pastures here and we let the semen flow on Branded Beef. Click here for Red Angus Bull Genetics. 

In 2004, we started adding Angus to the Bar 5 Maternal Crossbreeding System. 

We are developing the Bar 5 ANGUS Program - we promise we will not let you down.   

GENETIC DESCRIPTION

Bar 5 means Beef.
Bar 5 means Easy Keeping.
Bar 5 means Low Maintenance, High Performance !!!!!

We do not develop individuals at Bar 5 - we develop Genetics.

We do not believe you can make good wine from bad grapes.

We do not try to breed a bad animal to another for a good looking bull - and fake you out with bad genes.

We understand the Cattle Industry worldwide.

See Appendix 1 for our map of the Simmental Industry.

Yes, a new dawn has hit the Simmental industry and it's Domestically Upgraded Purebreds - Bar 5 has entered with our technology & breeding techniques. Oh, yes you will hear a lot of the mass producers in Canada & USA saying we don't belong, but we do. We understand that the only reason we have Full blood cattle is to introduce into the Cross bred world.

Our good friends & partners, Marywood Simmentals-Ron Wooddisse, Richwood Simmetnals-Rich Wooddisse, & Ferme Gagnon-Yves & Dany Gagnon; got the ball rolling with the use of Red Baldie bulls on Fullblooded cows; so we thought we should use our SA Fleck bulls on our SR Domestic Purebred cows & a Red Angus on a Fullblood.

Bar 5 SR Polled Baldies - Red & Polled, but packing the Simmental Breed Characteristics of Simmental, a small percentage of Angus or other blood.

Bar 5 SB Black Baldies -- Black & Polled, but packing the Simmental Breed Characteristics a small percentage of Angus or other blood.

Crossbreeding

In many sectors of the beef industry, producers fall into the trap that one breed can do it all. 50 years of industry research prove that intelligent crossbreeding allows you to quickly tap the unmatched power of hybrid vigour, while capitalizing on natural breed strengths.

You can leverage the inherent power of strategic crossbreeding by combining the advantages of growth, muscle, maternal excellence, calving ease and marbling.

Bar 5 Maternal Designed Crossbreeding Systems

"Bar 5 F-1" - Pure blood to Pure blood of two Breeds-  Registered Simmental bred to 100% Pure bred Angus or 100% of another breed is a Bar 5 F-1.  Pure blooded parents on both sides. Pure unbridled Hybrid Vigour. 100% Heterosis. 

"Bar 5 CrossBreds" - F-2 and beyond -- Multi Breeds in the Cross -- -- Registered parent on one side and/or one of the Parents contains genetics not a 100% of one breed. Yes, we wrestled with this problem for months, what to do with the calves from two parts of our own crossbreeding program. The calves from unregistered cows and the calves from Domestically Upgraded Purebred stock from the Simmental industry and other breeds. Well, at the end of the day we went with the science & our beliefs. We do not buy the story that a 7/8 of something is a Purebred. A recorded 7/8 is an F-4.

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OVERVIEW OF THE BAR 5 OPERATION
BAR 5 - MUSCLE, MILK & PERFORMANCE!

You now have more options than ever working with Bar 5 Stock Farms Ltd. :

operations.htm    BAR 5 OPERATIONS

A simple, integrated, self-sustaining system for making profit in the cattle business - Genetics that are Superior !!

Bar 5 Name System & Cross Bred Designations

Bar 5 Numbering System

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BAR 5 BREEDING GOAL DEVELOPMENT

Initiatives

Bar 5 prepares new and updated management reports each year for specific Genetic Evaluation.

The Bar 5 Breeding & Improvement Philosophy

We believe our role is one of Genetic Responsibility. We develop and sell genetics thru our products of bulls, females, semen & embryos.

We use what we refer to as the Bar 5 " 1-2-3 " step Process of Genetic Advancement for Measuring for our Breeding Decisions;

• Genetic Ancestry - Line Breeding. We travel the world looking at cattle, and have developed a keen knowledge of the genetic background of the breeds.
• Visual Inspection - We believe in using our own experience in evaluating cattle for our program, through visual inspection to evaluate structural correctness, udders, body condition, docility, hair coats, & skeletal structure.
• Information - Frame score, Performance, Ultrasound, EPD, Testicle measurements, DNA tests.

1.    Genetics are the most powerful thing on Earth !!!!! LINE BREED !! THE ONLY WAY TO LOCK IT IN !!! PREDICTABLITY !!!!

Genetic Ancestry - We believe that genetics are the building blocks of any breeding program, whether it be dogs, horse or cattle. We travel the world looking at cattle, and have developed a keen knowledge of the genetic background of the breeds. We make notes and we study. We use this subjective info rmation in all our decision making. We have evaluated cattle 35 years and have a feel for hw they will transmit the positive traits based on individual info rmation, progeny proofs & visual appraisal. We receive requests for Ancestry info rmation from around the world, and we are more than pleased to offer you our insight.

Like to like - Using our Targets & our Breeding Methods - we can assure you of true breeding value in all cattle we produce. The Bar 5 Breeding Program. so true we applied to our CrossBreeding Program - Yes, like to like of Two breeds !!!

Line Breeding - We have seen it used all over the world in Simmentals, Brahman, Nelore & Angus cattle. In bird breeding, horses & dogs. Why ignore the reality. If you got good genes, you want to Line Breed to increase predictability.

We have been producing Cattle since 1969, and are known a one of Canada 's most successful breeding operations. This Program documents our methods.

2. At the End of the Day - You got like what you see !!!!!

Visual Inspection - We believe in using our own experience in evaluating cattle for our program, through visual inspection to evaluate structural correctness, udders, body condition, docility, hair coats, & skeletal structure.

All cattle that we use in breeding are Bar 5 appraised. Even the recips and commercial herd, no, especially the recips & commercial herd. We know what the Pure blood cattle look like, as we know the genes !!! We are hard on them, but we demand functional cattle. Bar 5 is a not a feed palace, like many think use to down stroke our Program, it is a commercially managed Commercial Herd, with a small Full blood herd, - and they all run together !!! NO special treatment for anybody !!!!

Ever wonder why a Bar 5 bull can chase down a cow in Mexico in the Sonora desert, the Rain forest of Brazil or the frigid prairies of Western Canada ? Because they are bred & raised too!! Genetics & Cattle that work.

Structure - We demand correct cattle. Shoulders. Feet. Ability to do the job.
Docile - we select for temperament.
Hair - yes, we like short hair cattle in the summer & thick hair in the winter. Not long hair. Weak. Sissy stuff.
Udders - nice teats & udder attachments - A must for Maternal Power.
Mothering Ability - The got like their babies or we don't like them !
Body depth - Got have depth, for efficient rumen capacity.

Mating like to like. Full blood Simmental to Fullblood Simmental - Consistency in the Genetics. This has been the Bar 5 Philosophy for 35 years and it hold truer today than ever! We have sold cattle the world over and this philosophy has held true, Our F-1 may breed truer than many Pure blood cattle and most upgraded Domestic Purebred cattle.

3.    Information Technology -- The rage of the Cattle Business - But be aware - You cannot compare and it May take awhile, you will know before the Computer !!!

Information such as Density, REA?CWT, Frame score, Performance, Ultrasound, EPD, Testicle measurements, DNA tests. If your read recent breed promotion publication or sale catalogue, you would think the university boys have taken over the cattle business - well, we are here to tell you , not at Bar 5 !!!!! We know the place of information, it's value and it's limitations. We place no more than 1/3 of our decision making on these facts.

Inforamtion is Important but we know the genetic material in the animal cannot be measured by some guy with some model that all calves born start the same from his office in New York State . All brothers and sisters are different - yet every one starts out with the same EPD, they are giving you the wrong info before you start. Individual performance is a much indicator, if one knows the environment. So what does Bar 5 do?  Be cautious with EPD's - Only gets you in trouble; Angus friends are you paying attention?

1. Actual Performance

Density - Weight to Frame - Our secret Weapon! Easy Keepers. How much meat is hanging on them bones !!! Sounds simple yet, no one does the math for you. Bar 5 does. We put high value on actual performance, and we place value on Frame score, and we compare the 365 day weight to frame score - called the Bar 5 Pounds per Frame Score Unit - we demand over 200 lbs. per frame unit! 

6.5 frame has to 1400 lbs., 6 = 1300, 7 = 1500, 7.5 = 1600..The best Bar 5 bulls have been selected this way for 12 years, and we know it works. Our secret weapon. It's called the "Bar 5 Growth Curve".

Actual Weight / Inches  X  100 =

The Bar 5 Growth Curve - Age is the constant at 1 year, so the age axis changes to Weight !!! Isn't that what we do - raise Red Meat? Weight, Pounds - the last we looked we still sell them by the pound, not height. We do not care how tall they can get at two years old, we care how much meat is hanging on the frame or skeleton !!!!!!

So, Less Bone + Same Weight = More Red Meat !! And the calves are born easier too!

2.  Ultra Sound Carcass data - We have 10 years in the books here and know how to use it. But, we know it's limitations.

REA/CWT:  Square Inches REA / Actual Weight  X  100  =  < 1.  We like to see more than one or   1%

3.     EPD 's - Cross Breed Comparisons  - BIO ABC's

Well, a sore spot here at Bar 5, The CSA gave us zero to start on our Imported Cattle, and as the CSA does use the ET info in EPD calculation & we ET most of our calves; they will not give us EPD's!! How is that for a 35 years of membership !!! Anyway, it takes EPD's 6 years for them to catch up with new unknown genetics; whew, the are a decade behind us !!!

BIO ABCs - Compare Across Breeds - Why wouldn't you ? With our Simmental Fleckvieh, Angus & Cross bred cattle are carry Comparable EPD information, all breeds, all crossbreds -  one EPD.

BIO Fleckvieh EPD are as good as we are seeing some correlation between BIO, CSA, South African & ASA numbers. We have decided to go with ABC numbers as put out by BIO.

As a result, we can compare our Simmental to the Angus to the Red Angus to the Crossbreds.

Nothing else makes sense. Ultimately; your commercial customers will want to compare.

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BAR 5 BREEDING PRODUCTION TARGETS & GOALS

The Bar 5 Breeding Program

Production Program Targets 

Breeding Decisions are made by applying our Breeding Aims & Targets to the Process of Genetic Advancement for the three factors;

GENETIC ANCESTRY TARGETS

Known producers free of any disqualifying traits. We like to see "Like mated to Like", for as many generations as possible, even in our cross breds. The more generations of Like cattle, the more predictable the cattle. We have been breeding these Simmental based cattle for 36 years, and know the depth of them. In fact, we even list the complete Sire Top Line heritage on every bull we raise dating back to World War II, we have listed them back to 1945. We are even working on taking it back to 1890.

We eliminate the skeletons in the closet, avoid poor genetics with over compensated traits, and believe Quality breeding stock are a result of consistency in the pedigree, for as many generations as possible. Learn more at " Map of Genetics " for each breed (breeds.htm)  We have applied the same principles to the Angus cattle.  If we like the genes, we then look at the animal.

Genetic Sire Lines 
Bull Genetics      
Cow Families           

VISUAL INSPECTION GOALS

Visual inspection - We believe in using our own experience, and you should yours, when evaluating cattle for our & your program, through visual inspection to evaluate structural correctness, udders, body condition, docility, hair coats, & skeletal structure. Structural correctness & Visual appraisal are made, and we are impressed, then Information & Carcass data are used in the Planned Mating Program.

How do you score this? You don't; it cuts the cowboys (you just feel it in your gut) from the "Which one do you like?" club. Nothing wrong that either & we urge you to be truthful tom your self.

If you are not that experienced & need help, ask for it, learn from it - those of us that have the gut feel, are just diein' to be asked!

We then have to pleased with what we see, then we go dig up the Information.

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY TARGETS

BW - Be Realistic, Calf weight to Cow weight, we use 5-6%. But make sure you weigh them, guess work is never good here!  You will be amazed as they weigh more than you think, the first question we ask our commercial customers is: " Do you weigh your calves? " ..so, Do you ?? Overll breeds an ABC of around 50% or better.

Performance =1250 to 1475+ lbs. at one year, in our experience the bulls over 1550 are not easy keepers, but there are a few; ABC's for WG & YG of over 50%.

Weaning - Index & % of Dam, Index over 100 & try for 50% on bull calves.

Frame score = 5.5 to 7.5, 

Density - Aim for over 200 on the AYW/FS;  using Actual Height/Weight - 220 or 100 kgs.

Carcass traits = Balanced Carcass Values; moderate rib eye - 50% ABC, & over 1 inch per 100 lbs. - REA/CWT, high marbling % in the 3 or more range & a high ABC, & lower BF of 5-6 mm or ABC of 25% - 74%

ABC - moderate for all traits, bever extremes for BIO, South African Simmental-EBV system, & Angus Association EPD's.

SC - Testicle measurements=34 plus at a year, ABC of over 50.

For 15 years we have used the services from the folks at BIO. For each sale lot we provide the C.O.B. INFO BAR & the BIO EPD-ABC Percentile Score Card.

5 Simple Suggested Targets; KISS - Keep It Simple, Silly!

1. %DB - Weight of calf around 5-6% of cow weight at Birth,
2. %DW - Weight of calf at weaning, aim for 50% on bulls, & know the average in your program,
3. Yearling weights - Keep it 1300 + at one year, or a level for your desired carcass size, but remember as you break that 1550 lbs. barrier - they may eat a lot, and keep your eye on that Density.
4. Density - aim for 200+ on AYW/FS;  around the 220 or 100 kgs. for Actual Height/Inches X 100.
5. REA per 100 lbs. : REA/CWT - over 1. Then take a peak at BF ( 3-6 mm) & Marbling (2 - 4 % ).

If you set your Production Targets at these Goals, with cattle with no poor Ancestors, that have some Eye Appeal, you will be well on your way to success. Great success!!

Use a balanced approach of Pedigree, Eye appeal&  EPD info. & rely on your gut, Cowboys!

It is our sincere belief that to be successful we need to provide our customers all the way up the value chain, with the right genetic & production information for their evaluation. If you have any questions concerning information, feel free to give Greg, Ron W. or Andreas a call.

GLOSSARY to the "C.O.B." BIO INFORMATION BAR

Birth Date:  date of birth.

BW - Actual birth weight, in pounds, as close to birth as possible.

%DB - Actual weight at birth divided Actual weight of Cow at Weaning.

AWW - Adjusted weaning weight adjusted to 200 days of age with age of dam adjustments

W Index - ratio of AWW compared to a contemporary group of calves that have all been treated the same since birth, an indication of mom's milk & performance.

%DW - Percent Dam at Weaning, AWW/Actual Dam weight taken at weaning time.

EOT WT - weight taken at the end of test.

AYW - adjusted 365 day yearling weight.

Height - Hip height the EOT date in inches.

Frame  - Frame Score; height adjusted for age to a frame score.

Density - Actual Weight/Hip Inches X 100; an actual reflection of the lbs of muscle relative to the skeletal size of the animal. Can be calculated as AYW/Frame.

Fat - the backfat at the end of test measured with ultrasound in mm's.

Rib Eye - the Actual REA ( rib eye area ) at the end of test measured with ultrasound in square inches.

Marbling - the marbling at end of test measured with ultrasound in percentage of overall.

REA/100 Wt -  Rib Eye Ratio X 100 - the rib eye area per 100 lbs of animal - an indication of muscling & muscle distribution of rear quarter to overall carcass.

Scrotal - scrotal circumference taken at end of test in cms.

End of Test Date:  Date of Evaluating, as close to a year of age as possible.   

ABC % Scorecard: BW, WG, YG, Milk, Marb, REA, Fat, SC   
- reported as a % ranking, as explained below.

BIO EPD-ABC Percentile Score Card Line

This is the score based on genetic evaluations called ABCs (ACross Breed EPDs) for each trait measured.  Given as a " PERCENTAGE VALUE", for ease of comprehension, not a value which requires knowledge of a another value like breed average? For example, a ABC score of 75 means the animal ranks in the top 25% or 75% are below, of all the animals of all breeds in the BIO data base of over 2.5 million records.

 ABC Value - a " PERCENTAGE VALUE" from 1 to 100; given in two formats;

WB%  - Within Breed -- Ranks the animal against all animals Within the same Breed in the BIO data base of all the records of the animals breed.

AB% -- Across Breed -- Ranks the  animal against all the animals of All Breeds in the BIO data base of over 2.5 million records.

ABC Categories

BW -   Birth Weight adjusted for breed & management.  

WG -   Weaning Gain, performance until 205 days.

YG -    Yearling Gain, gain until 365 days.

Milk -  Ability to milk for the calf. 4,000 kgs. = 400 kg. calf, normal for SA.

Marb - Comparison of the ability to marble, higher the better.

REA -   Square Inches, as compared as the higher the better.

Fat -    mm of Backfat, ABC expresses as higher better.

SC -     cm of scrotal, expressed as higher the better.

All cattle are source and age verified with records.  The data presented is independently measured and prepared by BIO and we look forward to continuing on our relationship with BIO as more records are developed and genetic evaluations become even more accurate.  We thank Scott Bothwell for doing the ultrasound scans on our cattle and Nancy & Cynthia for processing our records.

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BAR 5 BEEF CATTLE & GENETIC LINES

Bar 5 Beef Cattle

Our Goal: Be a major source for profitable beef cattle genetics with emphasis on Maternal Abilities, as we believe the money is in the Cowherd !!  Bar 5 cows are producers.

A Balance of Maternal & Terminal Options within our program. Fleckvieh is the foundation of our genetics - the most popular pool in the world !!!

Bar 5 Simmental Fleckviehs --   Solid red, goggled eyed, moderate framed BEEF cattle with MILK, to cross breed - i) Red Angus in North America, ii) Brahman in the tropics, & iii ) Nelore in Brasil !!!   

Beef Simmental - the Number 1 choice for crossbreeding.  We at Bar 5 are committed.

"BEEF" Simmentaler Fleckvieh - The World's Maternal Beef Breed !!!!!

Bar 5 =  Beef cattle with milk. The Easy keeping kind.  

Profits and efficiencies will be introduced into the marketplace by Production Alliances & Marketing Coops. This has been the way of the Pork & Poultry industries, and why should the Beef industry be any different?

 Simmental Fleckvieh - The Best Breed for Efficient Meat Production.  

 Simmental Fleckvieh

 The World's Maternal Beef Breed.

 Make sure it is OC.    Make sure it is "OF".     Make sure it is Bar 5 .  

 Bar 5 will lead the way.  35 years and still on track !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Bar 5 Genetic Lines:

bar5info.htm                 

BAR 5 GENETIC LINES    geneticlines.htm 
BULL GENETICS              Bar5bulls.htm  
COW FAMILIES & DONOR COWS  Bar5cows.htm    

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MANAGEMENT TEAM

Ron Nolan, President: Ron is responsible for the day to day management and overall operations of the company. Ron is Chairman of Hatch Associates of Toronto, a consulting engineering company employing over 4,200 people with offices in 64 countries. Ron's retirement plans are to spend at least 50% of his time living at Bar 5-Canada, which will occur in early 2005. Ron grew up in Southern Alberta on an irrigation farm in Picture Butte, where his oldest brother still resides today. The farm is now called Nolan Cattle Company and is run by Ron's nephew Larry, operating a feedlot with a 15,000 head capacity.

Greg Nolan, Vice President & General Manager: Greg is General Manager of Bar 5 Simmental Stock Farms Ltd., Greg is responsible & manages The Strategic Planning of Bar 5. He holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree, spent 3 years with Deloitte & Touche in the audit department and completed his Masters in Business Administration for General Management in 1996. Greg resides on the farm in Markdale, and travels to Brazil & South Africa much of the time. He is responsible for sales and promotion for both Bar 5 and Circle 3. Greg has developed a wide network of industry contacts that are important to Bar 5 and Circle 3. He travels throughout North & South America, Europe and South Africa in pursuit of new business development opportunities.

Andreas Buschbeck, Operations Manager: He is responsible for managing the operations and facilities and husbandry activities of the cowherd in Markdale at Bar 5 - Canada . Andreas has been working with Bar 5 for over 10 years. He is well known within the North American cattle industry. Andreas is responsible for all aspects of Bar 5's physical assets & the entire cowherd and progeny in Canada .

Larry Nolan, Director: Larry is President of Nolan Cattle Company of Picture Butte, Alberta, a 30,000 head per year feedlot operation supported by irrigated land. Larry works closely with Andreas in planning and maintaining the focus for the end product of efficient production of meat.

Brian Robertson, Show & Sales Barn Coordinator: Brian has many years experience in the cattle business, and has worked for Bar 5 on a free lance basis for many years. He joined Bar 5 Sept. 1, 2004 full time and is responsible to implement the Sales Plan in preparation of all cattle identified for Sales or Shows or Displays. Brian has a tight working relationship with Andreas, and adds a strong element of preparation to the Bar 5 Show Barn. Brian keeps his own herd at the home farm, and is a Bar 5 customer, as well.

Jamie Lewis, Cowherd Coordinator: Jamie has many years experience on the farm, and has worked Bar 5 sales, on a free lance basis for a couple years. He joined Bar 5 on May 1, 2004 full time and is responsible for the day to day care of every animal in Markdale. Jamie is a great kids and we are pleased to have on board.

Joanne Whitton-Nolan, Treaurer : She is responsible for a financial reporting, sales transactions file and invoicing, and interfacing with the Bar 5 suppliers. She runs the bank accounts & is responsible for issuing cheques to settle all accounts.

Nancy Kerr, Office Administrator & Cattle Records Coordinator : Nancy joined us on September 1, 2004 , and is responsible for the day to day operation of the office and all the records of the farm, and responsible for registering all the cattle and coordination of all the necessary support info rmation. Customer relations is a large part of her job out of the Bar 5 office.

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APPENDIX 1 - THE SIMMENTAL INDUSTRY

 "BEEF" SIMMENTAL FLECKVIEH BREED 

Solid Rugged Breeding Cattle -- The extreme harshness of the Canada & South African countryside forced the adaptation of the "OF" & "SM" and maintained the beef with milk original concept of the Simmental breed in Switzerland, the heartland of The Breed. Beef cattle with Milk.

We at Bar 5 have developed a model of using Genetic Lines for Genetic Improvement.

BEEF FLECKVIEH "OF" - SA & FF

"SA" Fleckvieh - The imported genetics of Southern Africa all go back to German & Austrian roots from the early 60's. Do not be fouled by imitations. All traced back to the best recognized individuals in Europe . Direct Imports from Germany to South Africa in the early to mid 60's, in the north of SA in the late 1800's; and for 40 years the South African Simmental breeders have selected for problem free ranch cattle, easier calving, and lower framed. The extreme harshness of the South African countryside forced the adaptation of the "Beef" and maintained the beef with milk original concept of the Simmental breed in Switzerland .

"FF" Fleckvieh - The direct Imports to North America from Germany & Austria of Original Fleckvieh (OF) . One of the Simmental breeds greatest success stories all around the world, is the genetic pool of 100% Blood lines for the OF. From Bavaria , Austria and the north of Germany comes these lines. But this was before the introduction of the NC in Germany . NC for milk. NC for Dual Purpose. NC for Not Correct !!!!! Not the Bar 5 way.

"Beef" Original Concept of Simmentaler Fleckvieh

Our Homeland in Europe has developed a Dual Purpose Strategy and;

The Simmental Breed has been officially acknowledged as having two genetic pools & types of cattle - Dual Purpose & Beef.

Be rest assured Bar 5 is the world leader in Simmental Fleckvieh Beef Genetics !!!

SIMMENTAL ORIGINAL from Switzerland & France

SM Simmental - European roots from France & Switzerland . Yes, we bred them for 35 years on the original imports from Switzerland , France , Germany & Austria . We have had success and still use these lines today. However, the fact that the two main countries, Switzerland & France have taken the Breed to extreme MIlk, it became hard to draw new Genetic Lines. We drifted to Fleckvieh lines, but we still have some SM imported lines in the herd.

Domestic Purebreds

The Canadian Simmental Association & the American Simmental Association both allow upgrading to record ½ to ¾ to 7/8 (Domestic Purebred for Females) and 15/16 for Males to be referred to as Domestic Purebreds. Bar 5 has papered Simmentals that are registered in the Domestic Purebred herdbook of the CSA.

Bar 5 has made the decision to enter the Upgraded Domestic Purebred Simmental industry as the current new designed genetics are not being used heavy enough in the Upgrading side of the industry. So who else but knowledgeable Fullblood breeders to introduce the new Lines & Genetics.

Cross Breeding

North America - Milk. Muscle. Performance. Easy Keepers.  Angus in the number one beef breed in North America, but lacks in some efficiency areas of Beef production. Thus Simmental-Angus cross females are the most popular commercial beef cow. 

SimAngus. Simmangus.      www.simmangus.com  

Tropics - Simbrah is the fastest growing crossbred animal in the tropical areas of the world. The mix is said to contain the best of both breeds it is made from. Brahman is a

Brazil - Nelore cattle number over 120 million, and "SimNel" half blood cows are the most expensive for commercial replacements. The high growth muscle with the high milk output is the exact cross the producers of Brazil are looking for.

APPENDIX 2 - THE ANGUS INDUSTRY