The Nebraska Cattlemen Research & Education Foundation (NCR&EF) is seeking donations of steers for its 10th annual Retail Value Steer Challenge (RVSC) feeding competition. Because this is the 10th annual competition and fundraiser, the Foundation’s goal is to attract 100 steers and provide $10,000 in prize money.

The Foundation’s primary fundraiser provides scholarships and supports education and research projects that benefit the Nebraska cattle industry. Funds from this event will support student judging teams at Beatrice, Norfolk, Curtis and Lincoln. Funds also support youth and adult educational events such as the Nebraska Youth Beef Symposium and send representatives to the Young Cattlemen’s Conference and the NCBA Spring Legislative Session in Washington, D.C., and numerous other events across the state.

Steers need to be born after Jan. 1, 2008, and weigh between 550 and 700 pounds. Delivery day at Darr Feedlot at Cozad is Monday, Oct. 20. Transportation for steers to Darr Feedlot will be coordinated. Preconditioning is preferred but not required. Remember, all vaccinations in front of the shoulder. Steers are weighed after an adjustment period and then the contest officially begins.

An individual, group of individuals, Nebraska Cattlemen affiliate or a business, may donate steers. Those who wish to support the fundraiser but who do not have an eligible steer may donate the cost of a steer ($750) and a steer procured for them. Steers become NCR&EF property upon delivery to the feedyard. Participants do not incur any costs once the steers are delivered to the feedyard.

Participants will receive two or three updates during the feeding period and carcass information at the completion of the RVSC. Winners will be announced at the 2009 Nebraska Cattlemen Midyear Conference next June.

To donate a steer or to serve as a sponsor for the RVSC please contact Lee Weide at 402-475-2333 or lweide@necattlemen.org or Jana Jensen, NCR&EF Administrative Coordinator at 308-588-6299 or janajensen@nebcommfound.org or one of the NCR&EF Board of Directors.