Producer Spotlight: Bartz Family Farms

Bartz Family Farms

Osage, Iowa

All in the Family

Bartz Family Farm is a 3rd generation farm that started in 1939 just outside Osage, Iowa. Chris, Matt, and Andy raise high-quality Angus cattle while farming the land. The boys have been feeding cattle for as long as they can remember. They chuckled at the thought they used to feed with a 5-gallon bucket alongside their dad. All three hold full-time jobs off the farm while raising their families, which keeps them very busy, especially at harvest time. The 4th generation is active in the operation when their busy schedules allow, “the kids always enjoy getting out on the farm.”

Quality Cattle Yields Quality Meat

Cattle comfort and husbandry are a top priority on the farm. Early weaned Angus calves are purchased in early fall and housed in a modern monoslope building that protects during the harsh Iowa winters while providing shade from the heat. Corn stalks are harvested and provide bedding for the cattle for added comfort. When approaching market, the brothers carefully select the animals who are ideal in their finish and market readiness. As a result, the
Bartz cattle routinely are some of the highest quality cattle harvested at UIB, with many groups reaching 70% CAB or Prime on a group average.

Sustainability A Priority

From crop to cattle management, sustainable practices are a priority for the Bartz brothers. All feedstuffs used in the operation are homegrown on non-irrigated cropland, reducing water use and carbon footprint. Locally purchased cattle reduce fossil fuels, which is true when marketing fed cattle to UIB. The short 30-mile trip reduces cattle stress, transportation costs, and fuel usage.

Customer No. 2 at Upper Iowa Beef

When Upper Iowa Beef opened its doors in November 2017, a locally raised, high-quality Angus cattle market was a welcome addition to the Northeast Iowa area. Bartz Family Farms was the second producer to take advantage of this opportunity. Four years later, it is clear that this arrangement is still working for Bartz Family Farms. The brothers appreciate the close proximity, transparency, and flexibility in scheduling that Upper Iowa Beef offers. “Upper Iowa Beef offers solutions that the big guys don’t,” says Matt Bartz.

Upper Iowa Beef works with over 500 independent family farmers such as the Bartz brothers. We appreciate the Bartz family carrying on the family cattle legacy and the relationship we have built over the years.

Downloadable PDF Resources

Recommended for you…