Seedstock Producer of the Year In the rolling countryside near Libertyville, Iowa, consistency has never been a slogan—it has been a way of life. For more than half a century, Goering Herefords has quietly built a reputation rooted in disciplined data collection, functional cattle, and a clear understanding of what commercial produc-ers need. That long-term commitment has earned the operation recognition as the 2026 Iowa Out-standing Seedstock Producer Award. Owned and managed by Bill Goehring, Goehring Herefords represents more than 55 years in the cattle business, with five decades dedicated spe -cifically to seedstock production. The operation maintains a balanced herd structure, including approximately 260 Hereford cows in the seed-stock breeding herd alongside a commercial cow herd, allowing real-world performance to guide selection decisions. Few operations can claim the depth of performance history found at Goehring Here-fords. Birth weight, weaning weight, and yearling weight data have been collected for 50 con-secutive years on nearly the entire calf crop. Carcass data has been tracked for close to four decades, reflecting a long-standing belief that measurable performance is the foundation of genetic progress. This emphasis on data is paired with active involvement in the American Her-eford Association, ensuring that herd records align with national standards and that customers receive reliable, transparent information. Buyers are provided with comprehensive performance profiles, including EPDs, weights, scrotal measurements, and carcass data—tools designed to help cattle succeed beyond the sale ring. Management decisions at Goehring Herefords are guided by durability and efficiency. Bulls are developed on low-energy rations and native fescue-type pastures, a system designed to produce sound, athletic cattle that hold up under real working conditions. Young bulls re-main in contemporary groups until yearling data is collected, ensuring fair comparisons and ac-curate evaluations. Breeding decisions also reflect a practical philosophy. Artificial insemination is used extensively, with approximately 90 percent of cows bred AI.
Iowa Cattleman January 2026: Page-58
