Pat Durden has significantly contributed to the Florida cattle industry, most notably as the president of the Florida Cattlemen’s Association over the past year. Durden’s service to the cattle industry started at the county level, where he served as a county affiliate. His increasing involvement and dedication eventually led him to the highest position within the FCA, where he served as president of the association.

Although the association has influenced his life in various ways, he values the camaraderie among its members above all else. Connecting with fellow producers and friends has allowed him to witness the power of collaboration and exchanging ideas. In fact, his start with Red Angus cattle was sparked by a conversation with fellow producers during the 2013 National Cattlemen’s Beef Association Young Cattlemen’s Conference.

As a Red Angus producer himself, Durden testified to the value of red cattle in the Southeast. In his opinion, Red Angus is the fastest-growing breed in the Southeast, but Red Angus seedstock operations are few and far between in that part of the country. For Durden, transitioning to a Red Angus seedstock operation was a strategic business decision. The market was not flooded with Red Angus cattle, yet the breed’s docility and performance offered distinct advantages to the efficiency of his operation.

In Durden’s experience, the docility of Red Angus is unmatched. He mentioned the ease of handling Red Angus is above and beyond, regardless of where the genetics originate from. “If you don’t get run over when trying to tag a calf, that’s a good thing,” said Durden. Smaller producers throughout Florida and the Southeast region would benefit from adding Red Angus genetics to their herd, according to Durden. This is particularly true for operations run by one man or woman, or those that do not have the workforce or facilities to manage cattle easily.

In the challenging, sub-tropical conditions of Florida, Brahman genetics exert a notable influence. By introducing Red Angus genetics through crossbreeding, producers can enhance the carcass quality of Brahman cattle. As consumers continue demanding a high-quality product, procuring quality genetics will become increasingly important. The value of Red Angus cattle will shine most in the final product as the carcass hangs on the rail, according to Durden. Nevertheless, the priority remains ensuring the birth of a healthy calf. Drawing from his own experience, Durden highlights the utility of Red Angus heifer bulls for influencing calving ease.

In the past, there was a misconception that only black cattle could sell well at stockyards. However, Durden dismisses this notion as a mere myth. He contends that quality cattle, regardless of color, command good prices. As producers like Durden keep telling the story of Red Angus, they are gradually shifting perceptions and securing a bright future for the breed.