Daily News Update, Feb. 12, 2008

Stock Show International Committee facilitates Kazakhstan trade

Hereford cattle comfortable on Texas pastures will soon be getting accustomed to new ranges in the Republic of Kazakhstan. The Southwestern Exposition and Livestock Show's International Committee assisted in the sale of 120 Hereford heifers and 20 bulls to four livestock producers from the vast country that sits between Europe and Central Asia.

"Kazakhstan has traditionally been a significant agricultural and livestock producing nation, so we're proud they're adding Texas' Hereford genetics to their breeding programs," said Charles Lasater and Lionel Chambers, chairmen of the Show's International Committee. "The climate and topography are similar to parts of Texas so we expect the cattle will do well there."

Coming from well respected Texas ranching operations including Dudley Brothers, Ltd, Powell Ranches, Rocking Chair Ranch and Griswold Ranch, the value of the shipment totals more than $250,000. The cattle are expected to be shipped to Kazakhstan before May.

In addition, a delegation from Veracruz, Mexico purchased more than $61,000 in horses and livestock handling equipment during the Stock Show's 24-day run. The group was on a return trip having been guests of the International Committee four years earlier.

"Promoting our outstanding Texas livestock is a very important objective for the Stock Show, thus we're pleased with these exciting sales," said Bradford S. Barnes, Stock Show executive vice president and general manager.

The Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo recently wrapped a successful 24-day run hosting almost 900,000 visitors to the legendary show. Among those were 427 international guests from 72 countries. For more information go to www.fwssr.com.