In the picturesque landscapes of Halifax, Pennsylvania, Laurie Meyers has cultivated a profound affection for Simmental cattle. With a rich history of breeding various breeds, Meyers discovered her unwavering devotion to Simmentals. These remarkable creatures possess an exceptional blend of maternal instincts, amiable demeanor, and remarkable milk production capabilities.
At Powell's Valley Simmentals, Meyers places paramount importance on breeding sound and functional animals, emphasizing udder quality and disposition. While aesthetics also play a role, the primary focus remains on nurturing superior genetics. Red Simmentals have witnessed a surge in popularity, captivating Meyers' heart as her personal favorite.
Employing techniques such as artificial insemination and embryo transfer, Meyers and her partner, Hunter Chapman, have invested in embryos to incorporate desirable traits from specific cow lineages. They diligently select cattle feed, providing 13% sweet feed to calves and nourishing mothers with homegrown hay comprising triticale and sorghum sudangrass.
Although limited by time and expense, Meyers showcases her exceptional livestock at the Pennsylvania Farm Show and the Keystone International Livestock Exposition in Harrisburg. Her triumphs extend beyond state boundaries, with her farm's genetics making their mark in multiple states, including Georgia, Iowa, Nebraska, Oklahoma, and more.
Despite currently rebuilding the herd, which currently stands at 30 cows instead of the usual 40, Meyers maintains a thriving business by annually selling the majority of her calves while selectively retaining a few heifers for replacement.
Established in 1997 on her late husband's family grain farm, Powell's Valley Simmentals has flourished through social media platforms, their farm website, and glowing recommendations. Meyers' sister, the owner of Annie Duncan Photography, contributes stunning visuals for all promotional materials.
While Meyers initially showed ponies during her youth, she found her true calling in breeding cows. Though she no longer participates in the show ring, she relishes attending events, cherishing reunions with old friends.
For Meyers, the true joy lies in the meticulous preparation required to transform a raw, unbroken calf into a show-worthy animal. In addition to her commitment to the farm, Meyers works part-time night shifts at UPS and also serves as an independent beef semen representative for Select Sires, ensuring a sustainable future for her beloved endeavor.
Photo Credit: istock-123ducu
Categories: Pennsylvania, Livestock, Dairy Cattle