Visiting with producers recently, some would say that the bulls are too expensive. At the recent sales in Nebraska and Colorado, they averaged over $10,000. That is a lot of money but stop and think about this. It has always cost the price of 5 calves to buy a good bull. When calves were bringing $1000 a head, an average bull cost $5000. The only thing that has changed is the price of calves. We’re now receiving $2000-$2500 for a calf, so at 10 or $11,000, we’re actually right on track.

Here’s a little exercise to put things in perspective. In 1978, it took 14 calves to buy a new pickup truck. Today, even with calf prices 4 times what they were then. It would take at least 40 calves to buy a new truck.

If you are a bargain bull shopper in this economy, you may get left out. The real question we need to ask is, will your bull purchase take your cow herd in the right direction?

How much is a bull worth that will breed more cows for more years? PCC has proven that forage developed bulls will breed more cows for more years. It’s not uncommon for us to find producers using a PCC bull at 8, 9, even 10 years old.

How much is a bull worth that will reduce labor and death loss at calving time? Personally, I would never give up my calving ease bulls.

How much is a bull worth that will produce low-maintenance, grass-efficient, fertile replacements for your cow herd?

How much is a bull worth that has a gentle disposition, maintains condition during breeding season and comes with a one-year guarantee? The answer is clear – He’s worth a whole lot more than you’ll ever have to pay for him. I’ll see you next time on the Herd Quitter® Minute.