“ I can ’ t imagine not being in the cattle business . I really enjoy seedstock production and being involved in the beef industry ,” said Gary . “ I like the relationship building with other cattle operations to provide them bulls with the intent of bettering their bottom line . Since I can ’ t get away from my nerdy engineer roots , I love the data involved with the EPDs and genomics that are at the forefront of the seedstock industry today .”
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Limousin sired calves outperform other crosses , and believe the breed complements Angus and other British breeds . The Limousin breed is known for its natural muscling and leanness .
In the 1980s , this Continental breed was also known for its less-than-easy disposition , as were many breeds at that time , but that has changed dramatically . The breed now promotes docility along with growth , which has become a major desired trait in cattle , especially as farmers and ranchers are trending older .
“ You can ’ t afford to have mean cattle . In the past , bad dispositions in cattle were tolerated more than they should have been ,” noted Gary . “ Even the best looking , best performing bull needs a good disposition . If you say your breeding program focuses on docility , you need to live up to that promise .”
Brandi said their 12-year-old daughter often says , “ You won ’ t let me jump on the trampoline but you will let me go in with a pen of bulls .” It ’ s good you trust your livestock .
The 140 commercial cows and 60 registered cows calve in February and March . 10-20 yearling bulls are sold private treaty in the spring . Most Limousin breeders and cattlemen hail from Missouri , Oklahoma and Texas . The Gates are one of a small handful of Limousin seedstock breeders in Montana . Instead of being discouraged by this , Gates sees this an opportunity to promote and grow the breed .
“ I can ’ t imagine not being in the cattle business .
I really enjoy seedstock production and being involved in the beef industry ,”
“ I can ’ t imagine not being in the cattle business . I really enjoy seedstock production and being involved in the beef industry ,” said Gary . “ I like the relationship building with other cattle operations to provide them bulls with the intent of bettering their bottom line . Since I can ’ t get away from my nerdy engineer roots , I love the data involved with the EPDs and genomics that are at the forefront of the seedstock industry today .”
Gary has served on the board of directors for the North American Limousin Foundation and is still chair of Breed Improvement Committee which works to decipher some of the national challenges of the breed . “ We talk about how to grow the breed . The nation ’ s cow herd is
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