Welcome back to Genetics & The Gavel, powered by American Cattlemen Podcasts. Just ahead, we have Aaron McKinney, he's the field editor for American Cattlemen Media, and he sits down with Neal and Amanda Sorenson, Owners of Powder River Angus. In this episode, they will dive into the Powder River Angus 2026 Annual Production Sale, Held on February 13th, 2026, at 1:00PM MST, at Buffalo Livestock Marketing 44 TW Rd Buffalo, WY 82834. 

Located in Northeastern Wyoming near Spotted Horse on Highway 14-16 with their two sons on a ranch previously operated by Neal's parents, the Sorenson's have been in Wyoming since 1882 where they first homesteaded on the Powder River. They have been ranching and farming for generations in an environment which can offer many challenges and hardships.

Amanda and Neal dive into the philosophy and breeding program at Powder River Angus. Neil emphasizes that fertility is the top priority, followed by calf performance, foot quality, structural soundness, and what are often called “convenience traits,” such as udder quality and overall functionality. He argues these are not conveniences but necessities, especially in their challenging, low-rainfall environment where cows must travel longer distances between grass and water and still rebreed and raise a substantial calf every year. The operation favors moderately sized, athletic, range-adapted cattle, raised primarily on native grass and mature grass hay with a wheat midds pellet, resulting in “greener” bulls that hold up better in harsh range conditions.

The Sorenson's program is built around producing superior females, with bulls viewed as a byproduct of a strong cow herd. They use older-line genetics such as Black Mass and Windy-line cattle and highlight a home-raised sire, PRA Bull Dogger, known for excellent feet, udders, disposition, and longevity in his dam. They acknowledge their cattle may not chase the very highest EPD profiles but stress proven real-world performance, including strong feedlot results and grading.

The episode also previews the Powder River Angus 2026 annual production sale, featuring 128 yearling, test-based Angus bulls selling February 13 at Buffalo Livestock Marketing in Buffalo, Wyoming, with on-site and online bidding options through DV Auction and other platforms. The Sorensons discuss their guarantee, free wintering and delivery arrangements, and their use of PAP testing to reduce the risk of brisket disease and heart-lung failure, benefiting both high-altitude and feedlot-focused customers. The interview closes with a strong endorsement of the offering’s depth, consistency, and suitability for commercial producers seeking both marketable steers and long-lived, productive females.

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