Greg & Joann Umberger
My grandfather, Frank Brannan, started raising registered Polled Herefords in 1928. Through three family generations, the present day Umberger Polled Herefords has been a commercially focused cattle operation. Our goal is to add value to our customer’s cattle operation.
We try to raise our cattle as efficiently and simply as possible. We feel this approach gives us a more accurate feel for how our cattle will perform for our customers.
Judicious use of records to measure the productivity of our cattle enable us to make better selection and culling decisions. Placing emphasis on the use of EPDs to research genetic merit, has allowed us to make more rapid and accurate progress in designing the type of cattle we want to raise to meet our customers needs. Most recently, we have placed considerable emphasis on the carcass traits, while still using sires that are at the top of the breed for weaning and yearling weight.
Although not considered a measurable economic trait, almost all customers comment on the disposition of our cattle. We insist on cattle with a calm demeanor that are easy to work with. Tattooing and tagging newborn calves is not a problem. Conservative marketings and eye pigmentation are also traits we select for.
Repeat customers are the heart of any successful business. We acknowledge and thank all those breeders who have found that our cattle work well in their program environment.