The Shorthorns we so proudly raise today are the product of 60 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 a 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.

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 pure and consistent genetics bred into our females and bulls. Add value to your herd, and a positive impact on your profits.

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 bulk of our cow herd today are descendants of
those original foundation females that Bill built his herd around.
Building upon select cow families has offered greater consistency and
proven production.

The farm today is operated by Peter & Christine Boake.

Our Philosophy

We believe in the strength of the mama cow.
We believe in easy fleshing, low maintenance cattle.
We believe in not getting caught up in the latest fads.
We believe in staying true to what has brought us to this point.
We believe in breeding cattle based on multiple trait selection.
We believe Shorthorns are a maternal breed... not terminal.
We believe strong maternal traits build cowherds, and produce
influential herd sires.

Alta Cedar Shorthorns hosts the annual "Showcase Bull Sale" on the
first Saturday in March here on the farm, featuring Shorthorn and
Angus bulls.

We also consign to "The Fever Shorthorn Female Sale", which takes
place at the beginning of October at the Cow Palace, Olds, Alberta.
This sale features the very top end females from a select group of
Shorthorn breeding programs from across Canada. Held in conjunction
with "The Fever Sale" is the "Fever Bull Futurity" which showcases the
up-and-coming herd sire prospects from across the nation. Please
contact us if you would like further information.