Episode 10: Let the Cows Do the Work: Durability Over Dependency with Arron Nerbas

Arron Nerbas of Nerbas Bros Angus challenges mainstream cattle breeding philosophies by creating a herd built on durability rather than dependency. This third-generation Canadian cattleman shares how his family transformed their operation by focusing on three fundamentals: grass, pressure, and purpose.

The conversation reveals a refreshing alternative to trend-chasing in the cattle industry. Arron explains how they've developed genetics specifically adapted to their environment without introducing any live cattle since 1999, relying solely on AI for genetic improvement. Their breeding philosophy prioritizes maternal traits over the extreme growth that has dominated the industry for decades – creating moderate-framed, fertile cattle that require minimal intervention.

"A good cow is a cow that doesn't need me," Arron explains, highlighting their commitment to letting cattle express their natural abilities without constant human support. This approach has yielded cows that calve unassisted on stockpiled grass, maintain fertility, and demonstrate exceptional longevity in their herd.

The discussion explores four key strategies for herd improvement: AI sire selection, replacement selection, system pressure through management, and strict culling protocols. Arron also shares insights on the benefits of multi-sire breeding, which enhances both land management and reproductive efficiency by allowing natural competition among bulls.

What started as a local approach to better ranching has gained international attention. Nerbas Bros now exports genetics to the UK, with interest coming from as far away as Romania and Botswana. Closer to home, Arron also shares how they’re challenging convention with a self-serve, automated beef market—offering direct-to-consumer sales without middlemen.

This episode offers valuable perspective for anyone questioning industrial cattle production models. As input costs continue rising worldwide, the Nerbas Bros approach demonstrates that focusing on land-adapted, low-maintenance cattle might not just be more sustainable – it might be the economic future of ranching.

Explore more of Arron’s work and learn how the Nerbas Bros are building cattle that thrive where others fail—through the links in our show notes. And don’t forget to subscribe for more conversations with ranchers who are rewriting the rules of sustainable cattle production. 

Connect with Arron and Nerbas Bros Angus:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NerbasBrosAngus/ 

Website: https://www.nerbasbrosangus.com/

Bos Sires: https://www.bossires.com/nerbas-brothers

X page: https://x.com/nerbasbrosangus

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theebutcheryonmain/#

Check out Bos Sires:

Website: https://www.bossires.com/

Bos Sires Catalog: International New Bos Sires Catalog (English)

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