51st Annual Tehama Angus Ranch Bull Sale Thrives with Record Sales

The 51st Annual Tehama Angus Ranch Bull Sale took place at the ranch in Gerber, California, on September 12, 2023. The event celebrated a rich heritage, recognizing the contributions of the Borror family, particularly Bill Borror, who established the herd alongside his parents, Dale and Inez Borror. His son, Kevin Borror, and grandson, Bryce Borror, welcomed attendees before the auction commenced, emphasizing the importance of family and community in agriculture.

During the previous year’s Golden Anniversary Sale, Bill stated, “We couldn’t have done it without family.” Kevin echoed this sentiment, noting, “We face a lot of battles in all of agriculture, but you (the customer) are the reason we do it.” Bryce added, “This sale reminds us every year why we do this every day.” These statements reflect the deep roots and values that guide the Borror family and the ranch’s operations.

A highlight of the event was the traditional tostado luncheon enjoyed under the palm trees, which provided a welcome contrast to last year’s sweltering heat of 108°F. This year, the temperature reached a more comfortable 86°F, allowing guests to socialize and reminisce about the previous sale’s challenges.

The auction began with the sale of Tehama Authentic N492, a son of Woodhill Authentic, which fetched an impressive $53,000. The buyer, Big Rok Angus from Detroit Lakes, Minnesota, participated in the bidding through a live internet auction facilitated by Western Video Marketing and CCI.live. A total of 12 online buyers from states including California, Nevada, Oregon, Idaho, and Minnesota engaged in the sale.

Auctioneer Rick Machado and sale manager Matt Macfarlane guided the proceedings, with support from sales consultants Jake Parnell, Jason Judge, and Dave Mullins. Ringmen, including representatives from various agricultural publications, assisted in taking bids to ensure a smooth auction process.

Elwood Ranches from Montague, California, emerged as the volume buyer, acquiring 30 fall-born heifers at $4,500 each. They also purchased other notable bulls: Tehama Rival N760 for $35,000, Tehama Architect N742 for $30,000, and Tehama Prolific N918 for $24,000. Additionally, they partnered with Shufelberger Ranch from Redding on the acquisition of Tehama Authentic N456 for $20,000.

The sale featured a total of 165 bulls, which averaged $10,890, an increase from last year’s average of $10,244 for 143 bulls. Local buyers included Logan and Dallice Nuttall, Doug White, and Frank Endres, all of whom purchased multiple bulls.

Prior to the auction, attendees had the opportunity to view the bulls, sorted by sire, including notable lines such as Woodhill Authentic and E & B Rival 175. This year’s sale also paid tribute to the late Tehama Tahoe B767, who made a significant impact in the breeding community before his passing.

The evening before the sale, guests enjoyed music by Max Minardi while catching up with friends and indulging in a Certified Angus Beef steak dinner. Attendee Mike Collins noted the meal was a highlight, featuring tender New York steak, sweet corn on the cob, and flavorful potato cubes.

As the agricultural community reflects on the success of the bull sale, attention shifts to upcoming events, including a sale of registered Angus bulls by Elwood Ranches on October 3 at the Tehama District Fairgrounds in Red Bluff. The strong demand for quality cattle remains evident as local ranchers continue to invest in their herds.

The Tehama Angus Ranch Bull Sale not only showcases the strength of family-run ranching operations but also highlights the resilience and spirit of the agricultural community, ensuring that the legacy of ranching is preserved for future generations.