Thirty-eight buyers from Michigan and Indiana bought superior performing bulls that met rigid health and performance qualifications at the 28th Annual MCA-MSU Bull Evaluation sale, March 19.

The 2016 program began in October with 71 bulls that were hand selected by 23 breeders in Michigan and Indiana.  Each bull was sold with ultrasound data for ribeye area, external fat and percent intramuscular fat.  In addition, all bulls met a minimum average daily gain requirement of 2.8 lbs. and passed stringent evaluations for reproductive potential, disposition and structural soundness.

Michigan Bull Evaluation reveals the value of genetic investment

The high selling bull was an Angus consigned by Bordner Angus Farms of Sturgis that sold for $6,000 to Thomas Gallagher of Carson City.  The second-high selling bull was also an Angus consigned by KB Angus Farms of Merritt and sold for $5,750 to Spencer Shunk of Sault Ste. Marie.

Seven Angus bulls and five Simmental bulls sold for $5,000 or more. Breed results were as follows: 14 Simmental bulls averaged $4,064; 33 Angus bulls averaged $3,644; 2 Charolais bulls averaged $3,125; and 1 Polled Hereford bull sold for $2,250. 

The Michigan Cattlemen’s Association Bull Evaluation Program is held in cooperation with Michigan State University. The bulls are managed at the Plank Farm in Crystal, MI.  The next MCA-MSU Bull Evaluation will begin in October, with nominations accepted until Sept. 1.  Contact the Michigan Cattlemen’s Association at 517-347-8117 or visit the program website www.MIBulls.com for details.