At Decatur, your cattle will be sorted, managed, and sold individually for maximum efficiency. You’ll be paid on a value-based system, meaning more money for better quality beef, including age and source premiums.

Latest Technology

Decatur was one of the first feed yards to sort cattle using chute scales and ultrasound (1987), and the first to sort using video imaging (1992). And in 2006, our quality management program was approved for the USDA Quality Systems Assessment Program, for marketing age and source verified cattle. We stay at the forefront of the beef industry because it provides better information about your animals, a more efficient calf-finishing timeline, and the best financial return to you.

Sophisticated Sorting

Our cattle sorting process is not reliant on best guesses. Designed with input from cattle-handling expert Temple Grandin, our innovative system maximizes the value of each animal. It analyzes each head of cattle by backfat, weight, body type, and projected feed efficiency to determine the ideal finish date. It then sorts them accordingly to maximize individual genetics. Learn more about our process.

Value-Based Marketing

After managing your cattle individually, we also sell them individually for the best timing and the best price. Our partner packer, Cargill Meat Solutions, is known for its willingness to pay more for higher quality, value-added beef. Our ranchers get paid for each animal’s value, including age and source verified beef. This way, you get rewarded for superior genetics and characteristics (including marbling).