Locals build foundation and provide support for 25 years of Show-Me-Select
Four local residents (Cape Girardeau County, Perry County, and Stoddard County) began their journey with the Show-Me-Select Replacement Heifer program in 1998 and have maintained their support for 25 years. Glen Birk, of Glen Birk Farms, and Willis Koenig enrolled heifers into the development and marketing program in 1997 to be eligible for the first sale of Show-Me-Select heifers in Southeast Missouri in the fall of 1998. They have each been tremendous supporters, enrolling heifers in both spring and fall, every year, for the past 25 years. Glen has sold heifers in every single sale held in Fruitland. Willis has sold in all but one, where he chose to keep all his heifers that season.
Two other community members have been instrumental in the success and stability of the Show-Me-Select Replacement Heifer sales of Southeast Mo: Darrell Aufdenberg and Kenny Carney. Darrell has served as sale manager for 25 years and has recently put in for his retirement. Although retired (partially), he continues his involvement my mentoring the next generation, Andrew Puchbauer, to take on this role. Kenny Carney has provided auctioneer services for the sale since 1998. And while he has recently relocated to another state, he continues to return for this community of producers.
Support of this nature is what makes a program successful and sustainable. These individuals are valued members of the Southeast Show-Me-Select Replacement Heifer program. We thank them for their unwavering support and look forward to continuing the partnership.
Show-Me-Select Replacement Heifers is an on-farm heifer development program that partners producers, MU Extension Livestock Specialists, and local veterinarians. Producers follow strict management guidelines for heath, reproduction, and genetics. The program also offers a regional-based marketing component where eligible heifers are tagged with a trademarked ear tag and sell through sanctioned Show-Me-Select sales. More information on the Show-Me-Select program, requirements, and regional contacts can be found at: https://extension.missouri.edu/programs/show-me-select-replacement-heifer-program. ∆