A conversation with everyday Stockmen,
Featuring Roy Miller, Summit Agricultural Group of Hubbard, Iowa.
About the Stockman.
"I grew up near Mount Hope, Ohio where my family milked cows and raised Percheron draft horses. In 2009, I moved to Iowa to join the team at Summit Agricultural Group. Today I manage Summit’s purebred cow/calf herd. We raise Angus, Red Angus, Simmental, and Charolais cattle and sell private treaty bulls every spring. We also offer females year-round via private treaty. Percheron draft horses are another passion of mine, and we raise several foals every year."
What about the beef cattle industry excites you the most?
"We’re in a really great spot here at Summit – we’ve worked so hard for many years and feel like we finally have the set of cattle genetics that we’ve been striving towards. Our calves not only grow well, but are also very efficient. Stop out sometime and take a look for yourself. Outside of our cattle operation, I serve on our county cattlemen’s board and as the beef superintendent for our county fair. It’s very rewarding getting to see so many young people passionate about and involved in the beef industry."
What is your least favorite job on the ranch?
"Picture/video day when we used to do online sales (or cleaning the house)."
What is the most used tool on your ranch? How old is it?
"A Bobcat Ranger – aka Ol’ Faithful. It might only be two years old, but it has seen a lot of miles and has plenty of stories to tell."
Describe your best and worst day.
"My worst day/week was a couple years ago when we had a cold, windy February and had blizzard-like conditions for two straight weeks during calving. Enough said. The best day every year is when the grass is green, and I can turn pairs out. The other best day was when I married my lovely bride… and yes, we got married on the farm."
What is your go-to sorting apparatus?
"Rattle paddle or a flag."
Your favorite non-ranch activity to do in your free time?
"What is free time? In all seriousness, when we do get away from the farm, we enjoy going to college football and basketball games, and spending time with family and friends."
The most important lesson you’ve learned in this business?
"There’s been plenty of lessons, but some of the most important have been: Enjoy the highs because there’s plenty of lows. There are never too many friendships. And finally, stick to your breeding goals and what works for your operation."
Which animal (any species) has left the greatest impact on you?
"I would have to say Summit Supreme X01, our Charolais herd sire. He was the first bull we exhibited with success and gained a lot of friends along the way. But I can’t forget the gray mare, Marvel’s Nikita - she was the definition of a “gentle giant.” She was calm and sweet to be around, but as soon as she set foot in the show ring it was game on - she knew it was her time to shine. She loved her job."
Upcoming Sales:
Private treaty offerings available year-round.
Photos courtesy Summit Agricultural Group
learn more www.summitag.com
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