From the Field
Reflections
By Nathan Smith, NALF regional manager
Driving back from Denver after the National
Western, I once again found myself reflecting
on my time serving as regional manager, it has
truly been extraordinary experience. From my
first annual convention and National Western
Stock Show with NALF to this year’s “Year of the
Yards,” the exceptional opportunity the staff
and board presented to me in this position
was unrivaled. I must extend a special thanks
to not only the staff and the board, but all the
generous members and breeders for graciously
welcoming me into the Limousin family. This
family of Limousin breeders has taught me so
much about the seedstock business and life itself,
which is more than I will ever be able to repay. I
have truly relished my time with NALF. The people
of the breed and their stories are what I will
remember most from my travels and herd visits.
2018 was an exciting year, to say the least,
hosting the International Limousin Congress
and the successful release of the new Bolt EPD’s
are events that will stick with me forever. In all
certainty, my gratitude to the Limousin family
for this experience of a lifetime is immeasurable.
This feeling of family has made my decision to
pursue other opportunities very difficult. I have
enjoyed working alongside breeders and staff,
many of whom have become close friends and
mentors. However, I feel that this opportunity
is the best choice for my family. I will always
be passionate for the breed. The future of the
Limousin breed is bright. I am confident in the
leadership within the breed. I believe that Mark,
with the assistance of the board, will continue
to lead the breed in the best direction.
As an advocate for the breed, I am certain
that with the increase in crossbreeding, by
commercial operations to increase performance,
coupled with the demand for natural branded
products by U.S. trade-partners, the opportunity
for continental influence cattle to fill a greater
market share of branded programs will continue
to increase. Limousin fits these needs perfectly
as it has been long admired for its terminal
traits and ability to add muscle and pounds to
a calf crop that will convert at a higher level.
Nevertheless, in my opinion, to ensure that
demand for Limousin influence cattle continues
to grow, I believe that an increased focus upon
marbling, the implementation of technology
and the collection of data is paramount as it is
the ultimate commercial promotional tool.
Once again, thank you. I will be pulling
for the breed and hope to stay involved in
some way moving forward. It has been a
pleasure working with and getting to know
each of you. I wish you all the best.
Good Luck and God Bless. I
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