The Shorthorns we so proudly raise today are the product of 50 years of thoroughly and carefully selected genetics. More importantly, they represent a dedication to Shorthorn cattle that spans over a century. Our cow herd has been developed over the years with a strong emphasis on their maternal functionality. The cow herd is culled hard based on specific and demanding goals, such as fertility, feet, legs, udder quality, body condition at weaning, disposition and yes, even colour. Due to years of ruthless culling, our cow herd today is very consistent in type & size, as well, they maintain high performance with lower maintenance requirements. The progeny of these cows have appetites and do-ability that leads to excellent feedlot gains. We offer performance tested yearling bulls that have averaged 4.00 lbs. ADG for the past 4 years. Our bulls have gone to work in purebred as well as commercial herds, adding tremendous production, efficiency and profitability for their new owners. We can state this with assurance because of our many repeat customers and referrals we receive from these customers. There are many variables in the cattle business that are out of your control, BUT one tool you do have control over is the use of genetics. Take advantage of the genetics bred into our females and bulls. We have already done all the homework for you. Add value to your herd, and a positive impact on your profits. We are very excited as we look toward the future of the Shorthorn breed.
W.J. (Bill) Boake began his dedication to the Shorthorn breed at a very early age. Bill's father E.J.C. Boake purchased his first registered Shorthorns in 1916, after a barn fire wiped out his dairy herd of Jersey's. Working closely alongside his father, Bill was instilled with the ability and knowledge to produce the best Shorthorn cattle possible. Bill has been producing and showing Shorthorn's for over 6 decades.
In 1953, shortly after the untimely death of his father, Bill ventured off on his own and purchased roughly 6 quarters of land directly west of the original Boake homestead. It was there that Alta Cedar Shorthorns was born. The three foundation cow families that Bill built his herd around can still be found walking the pastures today. They are the Vesta, Penny and Lorna cow families. Building upon select cow families has offered greater consistency and proven production. There have been many changes and challenges since it's inception in 1953, however one thing that has stayed consistent at Alta Cedar Farms has been the Shorthorns. The farm today is operated by Bill & Edith Boake and Peter & Christine Boake.
Alta Cedar Shorthorns exhibits cattle at several shows throughout the year, including Canadian Western Agribition in Regina. Our bull sale, "The Shorthorn Showcase Event" takes place the first Saturday in March every year at Highwood Livestock Auction, High River, Alberta. We also consign a select few females to the “All That Glitter's Sale” which takes place in the fall, also at Highwood. Cattle are also sold by private treaty off the farm. Alta Cedar Shorthorns is located approximately 75 km north-east of Calgary, Alberta, Canada. If you are ever in the area please give us a call, we would love to show you through the herd. |
