The Jackson’s focus on embryo transplant to create cattle that thrive
MAMMOTH SPRING, ARK. – Jason and Joy Jackson of Mammoth Spring, AR, have been farming for over twenty years and started their registered Angus herd in 2000. The couple, own J&J Farms, a registered Angus operation in Sharp County.
The Jacksons dedicate their time to breeding, raising, and marketing premium registered Angus cattle one of the most popular breeds for meat production. Known for its docile nature and high fertility rates, Black Angus is favored for its finely marbled meat and tender flavor. Purebred Angus and hybrid Angus cattle account for over sixty percent of the commercial cattle in the U.S.
J&J Farms run 75 head of cattle on approximately 165 acres of improved pasture, which is managed using rotational grazing.
“We have found this allows us to run more cattle on less acres while feeding less hay,”
Jason said he plans to add additional grazing land in the future and emphasized stewardship of the earth.
“If you can’t get that right, you’ll never survive,” he said.
The cattle are rotated thru grass traps, which are a mix of mainly fescue and Bermuda grasses. Vitalix and Rio Max tubs are also provided. Once the cattle have picked over what’s left from the summer grass, they are supplemented with soy hull pellets.
“We supplement the cattle as needed,” Jason said. “Our bulls are developed on large traps with minimal feed inputs. If they don’t perform, they go to the sale barn.”
J&J Farms utilizes artificial insemination occasionally but mainly focuses on embryo transplant work. They are continually improving their herd with the acquisition of high-end donor cows. Fertility, feet, structure, and female udder quality are all areas of focus.
“We keep 10-15 replacement heifers each year,” Jason said, “The heifers are kept at one farm and the bulls at another.”
The Jacksons ensure their livestock are healthy and up to date by working with their local veterinarian to de-worm and vaccinate all cattle as needed.
Jason pointed out the difficulty of marketing – something many working in the industry can relate to – which he quelled by hiring a marketing specialist, whom he now relies on. Jason advises those struggling with similar issues to locate someone with experience in that sector.
“Listen to everything they tell you,” Jason said. “Ask hard questions. It’s always best to learn from someone who’s already been there.”
A moment of success attributed to this method is J&J’s collaboration with Sam Hawk of Hawk Angus in Bolivar, MO.
“He has changed our program and direction,” Jason said of his friendship with Mr. Hawk.
He pointed out, though, that word-of-mouth has always been the most reliable form of marketing for his operation. The Jacksons also collaborate with other breeders by participating in local, state and national Angus Association sales.
“We always rely on the opinions of our peers. This is what has helped make J&J Angus Farms.”
JN& Farms offers tours upon request and will be having online sales in the near future.
