3/15/04

Contacts:
Rachel E. Martin, Iowa Beef Center, (515) 294-9124, remartin@iastate.edu
Byron Leu, ISU Extension livestock field specialist, (641) 472-4166, bleu@iastate.edu

Nebraska Rancher Shares “ABCs” of Success

OTTUMWA, Iowa –Homer Buell recently shared what he calls ‘The ABCs of Profitable Ranching’ with more than 500 producers at the 33rd Annual Cow/Calf Conference in Ottumwa, Iowa, denoting ‘A’ for Attitude, ‘B’ for Business practices, and ‘C’ for Continuing education.

Buell and his family operate the Shovel Dot Ranch, founded in 1883, in North Central Nebraska, which includes 28,000 acres owned and leased and over 1,400 cows. The ranch’s mission statement, “…to provide a business entity that satisfies the needs, wants, and desires of its owners and their families,” stresses that the ranch works for its owners, and not the other way around.

Attitude - “No matter what profession you’re in, a positive attitude is a must,” says Buell. He believes that a positive attitude is instrumental in success. Additionally, especially for producers, attitude includes being open-minded and focusing on what you can control, not on what you can’t control.

Business Practices - Above all else, this means having a business plan. The successful manager needs to know where the business is going, how it is to strive toward the intended outcomes, and when the goals will be reached. To this end, Buell stresses the importance of the business’ mission statement and writing long-term goals that fit the mission statement. In addition, Buell recommends having the creation of a marketing plan, lowering debt, controlling costs and record keeping.

Continuing Education - Buell stresses teamwork as a pivotal part of continuing education. “First and foremost, this includes our families, and I also recommend formally getting together with neighbors and those from similar operations to share and learn about each other’s management practices.”

A successful continuing education program may also include the use of management information systems (such as feed analysis and ration preparation, assistance in managerial accounting and cattle production records), working closely with the local vet clinic, participating in trade organizations, using accountants and lawyers, taking advantage of university extension programs and attending meetings and seminars.

According to Buell, everyone is a manager in some respect, and has a part in the farm or ranch’s direction and future.

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