Driving by Storyteller Farm you will see our rolling pastures dotted with red cows that have sweet white faces and bellies. This is our herd of Hereford cattle, and while we think they are the cutest type of cow, we selected this breed for more than just their appearance. The following post describes the Hereford cattle characteristics we appreciate.
Herefords grow well on grass.
The breed originated in Herefordshire, England in the 1700s and was developed specifically for beef production. Herefords were bred to efficiently convert grass into body mass. They were imported to the US in the early 1800s and rose in popularity on the large cattle ranches of the west and southwest in the late 1800s because they are hardy and able to grow on forage. Herefords were able to produce beef despite the rugged conditions and long drives to rail stations.
These thrifty characteristics are still present in today’s Herefords and make them an ideal choice for grass-fed/grass-finished beef programs.
They have a gentle temperament and a calm disposition.
Granted there is variability from animal to animal, but overall, we’ve been pleased to find this generalization to be true. Pastures surrounding our yard and neighborhoods grow closer and closer every year, and raising temperamental cattle that do not respect fences would be an irresponsible liability.
We also have limited resources as far as infrastructure and help. We are building the fences, alleys, and holding pens as we go and often have to get creative with old panels and ratchet straps. It’s mostly just Brett and I working the cattle until our kids are older. So the cattle have to be calm enough for us to check them and sort them without getting trampled.
Herefords are wonderful moms.
Herefords are known for their fertility and ease of birthing, which are important traits when growing a herd. They also have strong maternal instincts and take great care of their calves. We’ve observed this with our own Herefords and so far have not lost any calves to predators or had to bottle feed.
They were available locally from a producer willing to mentor.
Purchasing locally was a big selling point. We started with two bred heifers and two cow-calf pairs. Before we made the purchase, we were able to see them, see the herd they came from, and see how they were raised.
Buying a common breed also means that there are bulls locally available and we don’t have to depend on AI to increase our herd. This is another example of the importance of a calm temperament. We’ve had a Hereford bull here several times and have not had a negative or aggressive experience, although we are extra vigilant regardless.
The biggest advantage of starting our herd from local cows has been the relationship we’ve built with the farmer that they came from. He has been a valuable resource for all of our questions and has been a source for purchasing hay.
We have been very happy with our Herefords at Storyteller Farm and recommended them to someone thinking about raising beef on their small family farm.
This blog post was written in participation of a Blogging Bee-an online gathering reminiscent of the quilting bees and sewing bees of days past when women would bring their work together to create art. If you enjoyed this post with the theme “More About…” take a look at these posts from other farmers, small business owners, homesteaders, and creatives.
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