DATA-DRIVEN MATERNAL-FOCUSED GENETICS N
estled in the Flint Hills of eastern Kansas near Maple Hill—one of the last remaining stretches of tallgrass prairie in North America—Mill Brae Ranch is built on honesty, integrity, and cattle that work in this environment. Our breeding focus emphasizes udder quality, fertility, disposition, structural soundness, and stayability, supported by balanced performance EPDs strengthened through comprehensive phenotype submission.
RightMate® guides all matings to support balanced trait selection and improve consistency across the herd, with embryo transfer
further reinforcing predictability through full siblings. At the foundation of the Mill Brae approach is consistent, real-world performance—cattle moderate at birth,
efficient in growth, and capable of achieving optimal weights without sacrificing maternal function. This commitment drives the development of cattle that balance predictable performance, maternal strength, carcass merit, and structural integrity for practical cattlemen.
Mill Brae Ranch was among just 20 herds nationwide to earn Gold Level recognition in the American Angus Association Data Driven Herd program for submitting phenotypes on 12 or more traits. This distinction reflects our
commitment to submitting phenotypes on multiple economically important traits—data that directly strengthens the accuracy and validity of EPDs within our herd. While genomics play an important role in modern genetic evaluation, the consistent submission of real- world phenotypes further enhances EPD accuracy. By combining genomics with disciplined phenotype reporting, we provide customers with genetic predictions grounded in both technology and measurable, on-ranch performance.
Our genetics are further strengthened through participation in Maternal Plus®, a voluntary whole-herd reporting program that tracks breeding, inventory, calving, and weaning data. Every female in our program carries the Maternal Plus®
Mill Brae Ident Joanie 4024, pictured at 11½ years of age, represents our ideal cow. With nine calves at a 111 weaning ratio and a +1.23 FL EPD ranking in the top 1% of the breed, she reflects the longevity and productivity behind the Mill Brae breeding philosophy and continues to contribute as a donor female.
designation, reflecting our commitment to accountability, transparency, and continuous genetic improvement. The strength of the Mill Brae
operation begins with the cow herd— generations of disciplined selection have produced females that work efficiently, raise heavy calves, and remain productive for years. Whole-herd reporting reinforces the consistency and predictability behind our breeding philosophy.
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FRIDAY MARCH 27, 2026
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