The American Angus Association^® honors TEKO Angus Farm with a Historic Angus Herd Award. The Association’s Historic Angus Herd Award recognizes breeders and immediate families who have been in continuous production of registered-Angus cattle for 50 years or more.

TEKO Angus Farm was founded in 1971 by Teddy Koontz in Butler, Mo. In 2003, the operation relocated to its current location in Sparta, Mo.

“When I started my herd, Angus cattle were and still are the carcass breed.” Koontz said. “I was selling processed beef through local processers, as I still do today, and have always adhered to the adage, ‘If you want to sell the best you have to have the best.’”

In the beginning, Koontz purchased bulls from the University of Missouri Performance Tested Bull Sale. The foundation for his present herd was purchased from JD Taylor in Milan, Mo. in 2003. Since that time Koontz has made a few additions to the herd from Jack Baker of Butler, Mo., Valley View Angus, Republic, Mo. and other area consignment sales.

Koontz followed the advice of Eldon Cole, a University of Missouri beef cattle specialist, who said, “Better to breed up what you have than try to improve through purchases.” Over the years, Koontz has found this guidance to be true.

He says he has consistently used the latest advancements in genetics to improve his herd—first by selecting the best available AI sires, then through ultrasound scanning and DNA testing, including parentage verification, and now by flushing top cows and using embryo transfer.

In 2012, Koontz was recognized as Seed Stocker of the Year by the Southwest Missouri Beef Cattle Improvement Association.

Today, Koontz continues to manage his herd of 15 registered Angus cows in addition to a few commercial recipients, carrying on his commitment to genetic improvement and herd quality.

Visit www.angus.org for more information about the Historic Angus Herd Award or to view a list of awarded members since the program began in 1988.