Press Release

Nichols Genetic Source Sale Rounds Up Nearly 500 Head for Successful Sale

Dickson, TN- September 9, 2002 - The Nichols Genetic Source Feeder Calf Auction on September 6, 2002, showcased nearly 500 head of commingled, pre-conditioned and Nichols genetics sired cattle. 35 groups of cattle were sold to over a dozen buyers from Kentucky, Tennessee, Illinois, Iowa, and Minnesota. Prices ranged from $3-$12/cwt over market price.

The Nichols Genetic Sale concept was conceived when Dave Nichols, one of the industry’s most respected genetic providers, wanted to give his customers an advantage. According to Nichols, “We wanted to keep our customers in business in the new meat industry.” After six years and thirteen successful sales in Iowa, the expansion into the Tennessee market was a natural progression.

Cattle involved in the sale must meet stringent qualifications. All must be sired by Nichols genetics bulls, be pre-conditioned according to specifications of Merial’s SureHealth™ program, and electronically identified for sorting and data exchange. Information services for the sale are provided by AgInfoLink Global Inc. Glenn Smith, AgInfoLink’s USA National Manager, says, “This sale gives producers the opportunity to collect individual animal data at the ranch and receive performance data from the feedyard and packing plant. This is valuable information that allows for management decisions based on actual animal performance.”

Sandy Fussell, owner and manager of the Dickson Livestock Market, believes this sale concept works for both buyers and sellers. Fussell says, “Cattle feeders are willing to
pay for genetically superior cattle that don’t get sick and perform. Likewise, producers are willing to wean their cattle when they know they will get a return on their investment.” He adds, “After three years of preparation, it was exciting to see the success of the first single genetic source and EID sale in the state of Tennessee.”

The overwhelmingly positive response to this sale has prompted plans for a second Dickson, TN sale in January 2003.

Nichols Farms is located in Southwest Iowa, marketing bulls, semen and embryos throughout the world. Nichols Farms and its franchises are all family farms, selling Nichols Beef Genetics and offering Nichols Value Added Programs. Nichols specializes in Source Genetic Feeder Auctions, Genetic Source Bred Heifers and Alliance Feedlot services. For more information visit http://www.mddc.com/nicholsfarms/default.htm.

AgInfoLink Global, Inc. is the worldwide leader in agricultural product tracking from the farm to the table. The company is dedicated to partnering with global livestock production and distribution leaders to collect and deliver individual animal performance, source verification, and food safety information to all segments of the supply chain. AgInfoLink products allow for the sharing of data among numerous production segments, giving producers real information upon which to make genetic and production decisions. For more information visit http://www.aginfolink.com.

The SUREHEALTH™ Program is a trademark of Merial®.