“We try to make cattle that’ll last and get out there and work,” says Jace Coltrane, sixth-generation cattleman, of Coal Valley Angus.

The Cherokee, Kan., operation was founded by Jace’s father and grandfather, Jackie and Don Coltrane.

Says Jace, “Every decision we make on the registered side of things, it’s made from the commercial cattleman mindset because that’s who we are at our core.” The primary consideration with every mating decision is “Will this be a functional cow?” 

To keep moving toward their breeding goals, Coal Valley Angus uses artificial insemination and embryo transfer in a disciplined approach to genetic selection. They are increasing data collection with foot and hair shed scores. Because of their dedication to genetic improvement, the Coltranes say the cattle they’re now raising are doing everything they want them to do.