In 2005, we were approached, through our website, by a Laura's Lean Beef Representative to see if we would be interested in finishing some of our cattle and consign them to LLB. We did some research and decided we would try. We were very pleased with the results; our cattle fit the programme very well as we were on an all-natural feed programme anyway, not using hormones or implants.

We found our higher percentage Blonde cattle fit the program best. We are paid the conventional rail price and a bonus per animal, depending on their yield. The bonus is paid on yields over 60% and works on a gradual scale. Finally, our cattle are being paid for the beef they are producing.

We have always known about the Blonde muscling and excellent carcass qualities, but until this point, have never been paid for it.

Our animals averaged 65% yield and we were paid 16%/animal as a LLB bonus over and above the conventional rail price. This year we expanded our feeder program and also bought some Blonde calves which we feel will do well.

We believe cattle producers should be paid for the quality and quantity of beef they are producing. Now, through this Laura's Lean Beef Programme, our heavy muscled Blonde cattle are achieving our goal.