zvowell
Fri, 10/28/2022 - 16:29
Edited Text
SCIENCE
Winter 2003-04
EPOR
Reuniting & Rell1ell1bering
Animal Science Department Celebrates 100 Years
In celebration of its centennial anniversary, the
animal science department hosted the "Friends and Alumni
100-Year Reunion" on May 16-18,2003. With nearly 700
friends and alumni in attendance, the
weekend proved to be the largest
reunion ever to be held at Cal Poly, and
one that will not soon be forgotten.
Weekend events started Friday
at Cal Poly's Leaning Pine Arboretum.
The "Drinks and Grazing" event offered
wine tasting from eight local wineries
including Foley Vineyards, Lincourt,
Wild Horse and Edna Valley, live music,
and a selection of Cal Poly and industry
partners' meat products from Farmer
John, Zacky Farms, Brawley Beef and Superior Farms.
As the main event drew near, Sahlrday began with
the most talked about attraction of the weekend, the
Escuela breakfast sponsored by the American Simmental
Association. Horne of the student managed commercial
cowherd at Cal Poly, the Escuela Ranch brought back many
memories for those alumni in atten
dance. A crisp morning set a perfect
background to the ranch-style break
fast as groups of old friends gathered
to catch up on the last 50 years.
After breakfast, attendees had
the option of touring the animal units,
taking a wine tasting tour of Edna
Valley Winery or visiting San Luis
Obispo and the surrounding area.
Most chose to visit the animal produc
tion units and saw the changes made
over the years, as well as visiting the newly completed biotech
nology and embryology laboratory and the embryo transfer lab
at the horse unit.
See REUNION, page 3
A Century of Heritage
Department history compiled in book
One hundred years of animal science and husbandry
at Cal Poly are remembered in "A Century of Heritage." In
honor of the animal science department's centennial anni
versary, faculty, emeriti, and friends of the department came
together to create a collection of photographs and memo
nes.
"Up to this point, the department had no history
aside from what was in the university archives. 'A Century
of Heritage' essentially packaged up the past one hundred
years in a beautiful book," said animal science department
head, Andy Thulin.
The success of the book is due to the hard work and
dedication of John Stechman, Roland Pautz, Ken Scotto,
James Flanagan, Richard Johnson, Russell Anderson,
Robert Rutherford, Robe11 Vance, Katy Murphy, Wallace
Glidden, Jon Beckett, Mike Hall, Wendy Hall and Andy
Thulin. These individuals met weekly for four months
compiling and sorting through information for the book.
FEATURES
"It is hoped this book represents the reader's
experiences at Cal Poly and stirs fond memories of educa
tion in the classroom and
facilities, and of working
with livestock on campus
agricultural lands," stated
John Stechman in the
foreword to the book.
"A Century of
Heritage" is available for
purchase at EI Corral
Bookstore for $35.
To purchase the book
log on to
www.elcorralbookstore.com
or call 800.367.0771
ThtVlSIO Continues
"\'1 Jhat a great year 2003 was for the Animal Science department at Cal
VV Poly!
The seeds for the success were sown during September 2002 at a
luncheon with retired faculty Dick Johnson, Ken Scotto, and Jim Flanagan. We
discussed a common vision for a centennial celebration for the Animal Science
department. I encouraged them to consider helping to write a book, about the
history of the department since 1903. As the old saying goes, "Bite off more
ANDY THULIN, Ph.D
than you can chew, then chew it. Plan more than you can do, then do it," we did
Department Head
it. With the help of these gentlemen, other emeriti, faculty, students, and many
volunteers, the 100-year reunion was a great success! The history of the animal
science department was captured in the new book "A Century of Heritage," which now documents this great
program over the years. To those of you who attended this largest reunion ever held at Cal Poly, we truly
enjoyed having you as our guests and hope to see you
agam.
The department continues to receive exposure
and recognition as a premier program. The new
embryology and biotechnology laboratory was used
this summer to produce an interactive training DVD to
simulate management of major disease outbreaks
(animal and human) in the U.S. The training DVD
will be used to train agency administrators for the
USDA. The popular TV show "Animal Planet"
selected Cal Poly animal science to film an episode for
their "That's My Baby" program. They spotlighted
student Rachel Sachar foaling out Cal Poly mare
"Remedy Anne" at the equine center. The program
also featured our artificial insemination program, as
well as flushing and manipulating equine embryos in
the new embryology lab. This TV program has been
aired nationally and has provided great exposure for
our program. In addition to many new technologies
we have deployed in our teaching and learning pro
gram, our strong tradition of training students in the
disciplines of livestock production and management
remains the cornerstone of the department.
While we recently celebrated the many suc
cesses of our first 100 years, we must continue to
strive for excellence. Preparing for continued success
during our second century requires additional invest
2
I www.anirnalscience.calpoly.edu
ment in Cal Poly teaching and learning environments. With
a combination ofState funding and private contributions
the animal science department struggles to make much
needed improvements to existing facilities. The depart
ment has grown from about 400 to over 600 students in
recent years and needs to develop new innovative teaching
and learning facilities designed for both the present and the
future. Learn by doing education is labor-intensive and is
increasingly a capital-intensive enterprise, due to the rapid
evolution oftechnology. To continue to translate our
educational vision into reality, we must invest in the re
newal of instructional and applied research laboratories,
equipment, and support for technologies that enhance our
teaching and learning efforts.
Our success will depend on the active involve
ment of stakeholders like you, who are passionate
about Cal Poly and the industries and organizations we
serve. I encourage you to partner with the Cal Poly
animal science department to help us leverage limited
State resources to develop a new generation of leaders
with the technical knowledge, people skills, and
problem-solving abilities to flourish in this new
century. To learn more about opportunities for sup
porting the Cal Poly animal science program and our
great students, please feel free to contact me at
805-756-2419 or athulin@calpoly.edu.
REUNION
from page 1
Dinner, dancing and 100 years in animal science history came
together for the main event Saturday night in the Farm Operations
building, commonly known as "The Farm Shop." Guests circled
around tables decorated with flowers and bottles of Chardonnay from
President and Mrs. WalTen J. Baker's collection, Pinot Noir from
Tolossa, and a fine Cabernet Sauvignon from E&J Gallo. Hors
d'oeuvres of sausage, San Luis Obispo sourdough bread and vegetables
from Apio were circulated while old friends mingled.
Over 500 guests enjoyed a delicious ribeye dinner provided by
Harris Ranch, and throughout dinner they had a chance to look over 64
silent auction items donated from the community and related industry
companies. Col. Rick Machado sold 31 items and packaged deals to
the highest bidder. The evening's events wrapped up with a night of
dancing to the classic tunes of Monty Mills and the Horseshoe Band.
The weekend concluded with a Poultry Industry breakfast at the
Judging Pavilion, giving participants one last opportunity to reunite.
Guests learned how to make perfect omelets, while being coached by
poultry club members. California Poultry Federation, Pacific Egg and
Poultry Association and California Grain and Feed Association spon
sored this final event.
As those who built this department in the early years enjoyed
the Cal Poly Animal Science 100-Year Reunion, the students, staff and
professors responsible for the department today worked to ensure the
weekend's success. A course, ASCI 570, was developed for students
interested in organizing and directing the production of this major
event. Wendy Hall mentored the thirty-one undergraduate and graduate
students enrolled.
The Friends and Alumni 100-Year Reunion welcomed guests
from across the country as they represented classes as far back as 1931.
The department, known for its leaJ71 by doing style, community spirit
and reputation in the animal science industries, looks forward to the
next 100 years.
Investing in
Animal
Science
For over a century, animal science has
enjoyed a wonderful learn by doing
tradition of excellence. As the current
faculty and students chart a course into
the future to even greater achievements,
private support from dedicated alumni
and friends will play an increasingly
important role in our success.
There are several ways you can partner
with the department to provide much
needed resources. In addition, some giv
ing methods may provide you with attrac
tive financial and tax benefits. For more
information contact Dr. Andy Thulin at
805.756.2419.
The Stock Re ort Winter 03-04
3
Tradition Continues
Cal Poly field Live tock Judging T am
After a two-year absence, the Cal Poly Livestock Judg
ing Team is back. Coach Forrest Mangan leads this year's team
of six students. Mangan, a graduate student and part-time
lecturer at Cal Poly, has high hopes for the team.
"I want to get the Cal Poly name out again and rebuild
the tradition of Cal Poly being competitive in livestock judging,"
Mangan said.
As a member of Cal Poly's last judging team (200 I),
Mangan knows just what kind of dedication it takes to succeed.
The team members spend about 30 hours per week practicing
2003-04 Judging Team L-R: Forrest Mangan,
Coach; Shauna Trusas; Dustin Van Liew;
judging and reasons. Practice that wi II payoff when the team
Lauren Everett; Jason Krafft; Jean Arambel; not
competes at shows like the National Western Stock Show in
shown: Hilary Aquino
Denver, Colorado; the Arizona National Livestock Show in
Phoenix, Arizona; the Houston Stock Show and Rodeo in
Houston, Texas; the Grand National Livestock Exposition (Cow Palace) in San Francisco; and the NOith Ameri
can International Livestock Exposition in Louisville, Kentucky.
"To stay competitive we need to stay on the road," explained Mangan. The team plans to attend as many
competitions as possible this year; however, lack of funds may prove to be a limiting factor.
Cal Poly first fielded a team in 1948, coached by Lyle Hoyt. Hoyt donated the original Cal Poly Live
stock Judging Team buckle to the animal science depaltment during the 100-Year Reunion. Cal Poly won the
National Championship in Louisville for the first and only time in 1977.
Dressage Team at Cal Poly
University approves new equestrian team
Dressage is an equestrian SPOlt in which
"Dressage is mostly an individual sport but IDA is
judges award points for the performance of the horse
designed to make dressage competition a team sport,"
and rider in a series of movements, testing both the
explained Katie Dougherty, Vice President of the Cal Poly
rider's control and the horse's training. At competi
Dressage Team.
tion, the school hosting the show provides all the
Last year, Cal Poly sent five riders to the National
horses used. A drawing at the beginning of competi
competition in Bristol, Virginia
tion assigns horses and riders;
placing first on the west coast
the riders are then given ten
and eighth in the nation.
minutes to warm up the horse
"Cal Poly is known for
before entering the ring.
predominately having western
Three years ago a group
riding programs, but IDA helps
of students formed a Dressage
represent the English side of
Team, although didn't gain
equestrian sports. It's important
recognition from Cal Poly until
for our school to represent all
this year. The team is part of the
aspects of the horse industry,
national organization, Intercolle
especially since we're an
giate Dressage Association
agriculture school," Dougherty
(IDA), along with other schools
said.
The 2003 Cal Poly Dressage Team
such as U.c. Davis, U.c. Santa
This year looks to be
Cruz, and Stanford.
another exciting season, with
Teams consist of four riders with varying
Cal Poly placing first in their initial competition. The Cal
levels of ability ranf,ing from intro to first level, which
Poly team hosted an IDA show on November 15, and will
is the most advanced level of collegiate dressage. Cal
host a second show on February 16,2004.
Poly usually sends two to four teams to each competi
tion.
...
••
•
p
Quarter Horse Enterprise a Success
For over IS years Mike Lund has been leading
the Quarter Horse Enterprise at Cal Poly. The enter
prise allows students to develop skil1s in starting horses
for snaffle bit and cutting horse futurity in-training
sales. The project uses two-year-old Quarter Horses
raised and bred at Cal Poly.
Each year six students are chosen for the
project, although many more apply. To be selected
students must show more than just an ability to ride.
Academic standing, grade point average, future career
goals, year in school, involvement at the horse unit,
and past experiences all factor in. However, equally
important are the student's attitude, cooperation and
responsibility. Students must go through an applica
tion and interview process and a riding evaluation.
"The enterprise puts students in charge of the
project's entire well-being. They are responsible for
the health and training of the animals, but also the
business side of everything, not to mention it's a great
networking opportunity," said Lund.
At the beginning of each project, students
develop a budget and then spend six months working
on the horses, preparing them for a large sale. After the
sale, students go through the budget again to see how
successful they were. Students receive ten percent of
the gross sales price from each horse.
October saw the comp'letion of the 2003 Quarter
Horse Enterprise with six horses sold at the National
Reined Cow Horse Association Snaffle Bit Futurity for
an average of $4,125.
Mike Lund
with student
Shavahn
Loux
Western Bonanza Turns 20
Students Plan Premier Junior Livestock Show
"Our goal was to make it to 20 years, and here
Each year Western Bonanza is directed entirely by
we are," said Wendy Hall, lecturer and advisor to Cal
a class of students. Committees form early in fall quarter
Poly's Western Bonanza. "It just gets bigger and better to begin the planning for the three-day event. "The stu
every year."
dents make the decisions, plan
The junior livestock
the weekend, and see the event
jackpot show began in 1984 as
through," Hall explained.
a senior project with 100
Leading the class are three co
entries of cattle. Twenty years
managers Robyn Christian,
later, Western Bonanza is one
Grady Gallagher, and Shauna
of the largest junior livestock
Trusas.
shows in the west offering
"Western Bonanza is
over 750 of the finest quality
way for students to feel like
cattle, sheep and hogs. This
they're a part of something
year marks the first time for a
bigger than just school. They
2004 Western Bonanza committee chairs
market goat and specialty
not
only help put on one of the
and managers
barrow show.
largest jackpot shows on the
The show allows exhibitors, ranging in age
west coast, but they get to meet leading industry contacts
from nine to 21, the chance to compete in market,
and best of all see the experiences that we provide for
breeding and showmanship classes. However, unlike
junior exhibitors that weekend," said Trusas.
other jackpots, Western Bonanza offers educational
This year's Western Bonanza will be held at the
opportunities during the weekend. Exhibitors have
California Mid-State Fairgrounds in Paso Robles on
entered in a Livestock Knowledge Contest, a Fitting
February 13-15.
Contest, and a Photo and Advertisement Design Con
test.
New Faculty and Staff nallled
~~
to Department
Dr. Daniel G. Peterson
began this fall as the animal
science department's molecular
biology, genomics and biotechnol
ogy professor. He attended UC
Davis where he earned his
Bachelor's degree in Animal
Science. Peterson then moved to
Cornell University in Ithaca, New
York, where he earned his Doctor
ate in animal science and nutri
tional biochemistry.
Peterson has been recog
nized for his research by the
American Society for Nutritional
Sciences, has received the presti
gious Maynard Award from
Cornell University for research
and service excellence, and has
been recognized for his teaching
excellence by the College of
Agriculture and Life Sciences at
Cornell University with the
Golden Apple Award. He has
collaborated with world leaders in
molecular nutrition in his studies
of the cellular mechanisms
underlying bioactive nutrient
compounds.
II-~
I/l)
({)tf{;({/
~U
.
I
I
-
.
Ryan Holt was recently
named as Cal Poly's new Poultry
Technician. The Cal Poly graduate
received a Bachelor's degree in
business administration with a minor
in poultry management. Holt brings
to the university valuable experience
in the egg industry as well as
packaging. He spent two years
working for Rainbow Farms in
Denair, California before moving to
Washington to work with Foster
Farms.
Holt oversees all aspects of
the poultry unit, including the birds,
facilities, egg sales and distribution,
and the 21 students involved in
various enterprises. Current projects
at the poultry unit include adding
tunnel ventilation to one of the
broiler houses, and a cover for the
rod conveyor that is used as part of
the egg gathering system.
"I'm excited about the
challenge of improving the facility
and all the opportunities available
here," said Holt of his new position.
Dr. Robert 1. Delmore, Jr.
has joined the faculty in the animal
science department. He teaches
meat science, processed meat
products and Hazard Analysis of
Critical Control Points (HACCP)
courses and will have oversight of
Cal Poly's USDA inspected
harvest and meat processing
facilities. Delmore is a graduate
of Cal Poly in food science and
received a Master's in animal
science from the University of
Nebraska-Lincoln. He earned his
Doctorate from Colorado State
University in animal science with
a concentration in meat science.
Delmore brings with him a
wealth of industry experience;
most recently, he was the Vice
President of Technical Services for
the Clougherty Packing Company
- Farmer John Meats. In this
position, he directed all company
food safety, microbiology, Hazard
Analysis of Critical Control Point
systems, quality assurance and
research and development.
Delmore has received national
recognition including Meat
Processing Magazine's Rising Star
Distinction in March 2000, and
was one of eight meat industry
professionals recognized as a
rising star in the meat and poultry
industry.
-
Animal Science at Cal Poly continues to grow and thrive because of generous
donations from alumni and friends. Today's animal science graduates are trained
with the most up-to-date equipment and technology because of supporters like you.
Thank you for your support and belief in our program!
6' www.anil11alscience.calpoly.edu
-
Curriculum Updated
The animal science department has added approximately 30 new courses to the curriculum. Most of these
courses are upper division, however some lower-division courses have been significantly revised as well.
"Many students felt that there weren't enough upper-division courses. The lower-division courses would
create an interest in a topic, but there weren't enough course offerings for them to pursue those interests in greater
depth." explained Dr. Jon Beckett, "so we added new courses, mostly science based, that increase the rigor and otIer
challenging topics that were otherwise not significantly addressed."
The new curriculum allows students the opportunity to study more subjects in greater detail. "There are
topics that each specie has in common, and the lower-division species classes had redundant information, so we took
that material out and created a whole new class. This allows the faculty to now go into a greater depth and breadth
of material within each species," said Beckett.
ASCI 450: Computer Applications in Animal Science is an example of one of the new courses. Students
gain computer skills, specifically with Excel as it relates to livestock production. This addition is due in part to
response from industry leaders who indicated their needs for employees who had greater quantitative and analytical
ski lis.
Other courses like ASCI 403: Applied Biotechnology in Animal Science, ASCI 405: Domestic Livestock
Endocrinology, ASCI 350: Nonruminant Nutrition and ASCI 406: Applied Animal Embryology, provide students
with learning opportunities in biotechnology, nutrition, reproduction and physiology.
"These kinds of classes spark an interest in continuing their education through graduate programs," Beckett
said. "Many students become interested in graduate school after taking them."
A committee of several faculty members in the department worked to develop the new curriculum. Part of
the challenge faced was increasing the number of classes without increasing the faculty. Beckett explained, "the
changes in the curriculum are meant to increase the knowledge base for students regarding the use of new technolo
gies in animal production. Consistent with the tradition of the animal science program, the focus is on the applica
tion of these tools to increase animal productivity."
"We will continue to strengthen our learning program for students to understand cutting-edge technologies,
along with transferable skills, such as leadership, team-building and effective communication skills," said Andy
Thulin, animal science department head.
47th Annual Bull Test Sale
Each May,
approximately 300
bulls are consigned
to Cal Poly's annual
Bull Test. Bulls
come from through
out California, as
.......-2-0-0-3-C-a.....I-P-o-'Y-B-u-II-T-e-s-t-Sa-I-e----' well as the sur
rounding western
states. However, in order for a bull to make the October
sale it must be indexed at 100 or better, and pass sound
ness and semen evaluations.
Over fifty students involved in the Bull Test
Enterprise oversee the daily care of the bulls. Among
other responsibilities, this includes marketing the bulls,
record keeping, sale preparation and daily health checks.
"We get a lot of exposure to the industry and
hands-on production experience," said Erin Lacy, 2002
Bull Test Secretary. "Students working on this project
learn how to run a bull test; what we're doing here is very
similar to what people are doing at all the other bull tests."
-~_~~-;yr------
- --
-
.
-
- ~-
I.II!L.~ -
The 47 annual Bull Sale took place on Sunday,
October 5,2003 at the Cal Poly Beef Unit. One hundred
seventeen yearling bulls were sold for an average price of
$2,200, the second highest average in the past 20 years.
"The success of the event was due in part to
moving the sale to a weekend," explained Mike Hall, Cal
Poly senior beef specialist. "Parking has always been an
issue during the week, and moving the date helped increase
attendance and create a more relaxed environment."
As pal1 of a new housing project, the beef unit,
including bull test, will soon be relocating to the Chorro
Creek Ranch.
Current location of
Bull Test pens
r=r.'-'
-
---------
-'.,---~--:
-
~~-
-
--
:fhe~Slock.Re ort V.,linler.03-04.,
'7
Department Activities
2004 Calendar of Events
Cal Poly's Collegiate Cattlemen Club sent a del
egation of men and wOl11en to attend the California
Cattlemen and Cattlewomen 's Associations Annual
Convention. The event was held in Reno, NY at
John Ascuaga 's Nugget November 19-21,2003 and
was a joint venture between the California and Ne
vada Cattlemen and Cattlewomen's Associations.
Over 15 students from Cal Poly listened to speak
ers and participated in committee meetings. Students
representing Chico State, Fresno State and Sierra
College were also in attendance. Two animal sci
ence students were recognized for their achieve
ments at the convention: Shauna Trusas won a
speech contest about country of origin labeling, and
Stephanie Quinn was named Collegiate Cattlemen
of the year for 2003-04.
January 28-31 NCBA Convention; Phoenix, AZ
February 13-15 Western Bonanza
April 16-17 Open House and Poly Royal
17
May 1
7-8
22
June 12
October 2-3
Ram Sale
FFA State Finals
Receive Bulls - Cal Poly Bull Test
Ranch Horse Sale
Spring Commencement
Bull Test Sale & Field Day
ANIMAL SCIENCE
T
S OCKREPOR
Published by Cal Poly's Animal Science Department as a link between the nation's premier animal science program and alumni and friends.
For more information contact:
Animal Science Department
P 805.756.2419
F 805.756.7403
Building 10, Room 141
On the world wide web at www.animalscience.calpoly.edu
Designer & Editor: Sarah Pursley
CAL POLY
Animal Science Department
San Luis Obispo, California 93407
Photography: Wendy Hall
Nonprofit Organization
U.S. Postage
PAID
San Luis Obsipo, CA
Permit No. 30
Winter 2003-04
EPOR
Reuniting & Rell1ell1bering
Animal Science Department Celebrates 100 Years
In celebration of its centennial anniversary, the
animal science department hosted the "Friends and Alumni
100-Year Reunion" on May 16-18,2003. With nearly 700
friends and alumni in attendance, the
weekend proved to be the largest
reunion ever to be held at Cal Poly, and
one that will not soon be forgotten.
Weekend events started Friday
at Cal Poly's Leaning Pine Arboretum.
The "Drinks and Grazing" event offered
wine tasting from eight local wineries
including Foley Vineyards, Lincourt,
Wild Horse and Edna Valley, live music,
and a selection of Cal Poly and industry
partners' meat products from Farmer
John, Zacky Farms, Brawley Beef and Superior Farms.
As the main event drew near, Sahlrday began with
the most talked about attraction of the weekend, the
Escuela breakfast sponsored by the American Simmental
Association. Horne of the student managed commercial
cowherd at Cal Poly, the Escuela Ranch brought back many
memories for those alumni in atten
dance. A crisp morning set a perfect
background to the ranch-style break
fast as groups of old friends gathered
to catch up on the last 50 years.
After breakfast, attendees had
the option of touring the animal units,
taking a wine tasting tour of Edna
Valley Winery or visiting San Luis
Obispo and the surrounding area.
Most chose to visit the animal produc
tion units and saw the changes made
over the years, as well as visiting the newly completed biotech
nology and embryology laboratory and the embryo transfer lab
at the horse unit.
See REUNION, page 3
A Century of Heritage
Department history compiled in book
One hundred years of animal science and husbandry
at Cal Poly are remembered in "A Century of Heritage." In
honor of the animal science department's centennial anni
versary, faculty, emeriti, and friends of the department came
together to create a collection of photographs and memo
nes.
"Up to this point, the department had no history
aside from what was in the university archives. 'A Century
of Heritage' essentially packaged up the past one hundred
years in a beautiful book," said animal science department
head, Andy Thulin.
The success of the book is due to the hard work and
dedication of John Stechman, Roland Pautz, Ken Scotto,
James Flanagan, Richard Johnson, Russell Anderson,
Robert Rutherford, Robe11 Vance, Katy Murphy, Wallace
Glidden, Jon Beckett, Mike Hall, Wendy Hall and Andy
Thulin. These individuals met weekly for four months
compiling and sorting through information for the book.
FEATURES
"It is hoped this book represents the reader's
experiences at Cal Poly and stirs fond memories of educa
tion in the classroom and
facilities, and of working
with livestock on campus
agricultural lands," stated
John Stechman in the
foreword to the book.
"A Century of
Heritage" is available for
purchase at EI Corral
Bookstore for $35.
To purchase the book
log on to
www.elcorralbookstore.com
or call 800.367.0771
ThtVlSIO Continues
"\'1 Jhat a great year 2003 was for the Animal Science department at Cal
VV Poly!
The seeds for the success were sown during September 2002 at a
luncheon with retired faculty Dick Johnson, Ken Scotto, and Jim Flanagan. We
discussed a common vision for a centennial celebration for the Animal Science
department. I encouraged them to consider helping to write a book, about the
history of the department since 1903. As the old saying goes, "Bite off more
ANDY THULIN, Ph.D
than you can chew, then chew it. Plan more than you can do, then do it," we did
Department Head
it. With the help of these gentlemen, other emeriti, faculty, students, and many
volunteers, the 100-year reunion was a great success! The history of the animal
science department was captured in the new book "A Century of Heritage," which now documents this great
program over the years. To those of you who attended this largest reunion ever held at Cal Poly, we truly
enjoyed having you as our guests and hope to see you
agam.
The department continues to receive exposure
and recognition as a premier program. The new
embryology and biotechnology laboratory was used
this summer to produce an interactive training DVD to
simulate management of major disease outbreaks
(animal and human) in the U.S. The training DVD
will be used to train agency administrators for the
USDA. The popular TV show "Animal Planet"
selected Cal Poly animal science to film an episode for
their "That's My Baby" program. They spotlighted
student Rachel Sachar foaling out Cal Poly mare
"Remedy Anne" at the equine center. The program
also featured our artificial insemination program, as
well as flushing and manipulating equine embryos in
the new embryology lab. This TV program has been
aired nationally and has provided great exposure for
our program. In addition to many new technologies
we have deployed in our teaching and learning pro
gram, our strong tradition of training students in the
disciplines of livestock production and management
remains the cornerstone of the department.
While we recently celebrated the many suc
cesses of our first 100 years, we must continue to
strive for excellence. Preparing for continued success
during our second century requires additional invest
2
I www.anirnalscience.calpoly.edu
ment in Cal Poly teaching and learning environments. With
a combination ofState funding and private contributions
the animal science department struggles to make much
needed improvements to existing facilities. The depart
ment has grown from about 400 to over 600 students in
recent years and needs to develop new innovative teaching
and learning facilities designed for both the present and the
future. Learn by doing education is labor-intensive and is
increasingly a capital-intensive enterprise, due to the rapid
evolution oftechnology. To continue to translate our
educational vision into reality, we must invest in the re
newal of instructional and applied research laboratories,
equipment, and support for technologies that enhance our
teaching and learning efforts.
Our success will depend on the active involve
ment of stakeholders like you, who are passionate
about Cal Poly and the industries and organizations we
serve. I encourage you to partner with the Cal Poly
animal science department to help us leverage limited
State resources to develop a new generation of leaders
with the technical knowledge, people skills, and
problem-solving abilities to flourish in this new
century. To learn more about opportunities for sup
porting the Cal Poly animal science program and our
great students, please feel free to contact me at
805-756-2419 or athulin@calpoly.edu.
REUNION
from page 1
Dinner, dancing and 100 years in animal science history came
together for the main event Saturday night in the Farm Operations
building, commonly known as "The Farm Shop." Guests circled
around tables decorated with flowers and bottles of Chardonnay from
President and Mrs. WalTen J. Baker's collection, Pinot Noir from
Tolossa, and a fine Cabernet Sauvignon from E&J Gallo. Hors
d'oeuvres of sausage, San Luis Obispo sourdough bread and vegetables
from Apio were circulated while old friends mingled.
Over 500 guests enjoyed a delicious ribeye dinner provided by
Harris Ranch, and throughout dinner they had a chance to look over 64
silent auction items donated from the community and related industry
companies. Col. Rick Machado sold 31 items and packaged deals to
the highest bidder. The evening's events wrapped up with a night of
dancing to the classic tunes of Monty Mills and the Horseshoe Band.
The weekend concluded with a Poultry Industry breakfast at the
Judging Pavilion, giving participants one last opportunity to reunite.
Guests learned how to make perfect omelets, while being coached by
poultry club members. California Poultry Federation, Pacific Egg and
Poultry Association and California Grain and Feed Association spon
sored this final event.
As those who built this department in the early years enjoyed
the Cal Poly Animal Science 100-Year Reunion, the students, staff and
professors responsible for the department today worked to ensure the
weekend's success. A course, ASCI 570, was developed for students
interested in organizing and directing the production of this major
event. Wendy Hall mentored the thirty-one undergraduate and graduate
students enrolled.
The Friends and Alumni 100-Year Reunion welcomed guests
from across the country as they represented classes as far back as 1931.
The department, known for its leaJ71 by doing style, community spirit
and reputation in the animal science industries, looks forward to the
next 100 years.
Investing in
Animal
Science
For over a century, animal science has
enjoyed a wonderful learn by doing
tradition of excellence. As the current
faculty and students chart a course into
the future to even greater achievements,
private support from dedicated alumni
and friends will play an increasingly
important role in our success.
There are several ways you can partner
with the department to provide much
needed resources. In addition, some giv
ing methods may provide you with attrac
tive financial and tax benefits. For more
information contact Dr. Andy Thulin at
805.756.2419.
The Stock Re ort Winter 03-04
3
Tradition Continues
Cal Poly field Live tock Judging T am
After a two-year absence, the Cal Poly Livestock Judg
ing Team is back. Coach Forrest Mangan leads this year's team
of six students. Mangan, a graduate student and part-time
lecturer at Cal Poly, has high hopes for the team.
"I want to get the Cal Poly name out again and rebuild
the tradition of Cal Poly being competitive in livestock judging,"
Mangan said.
As a member of Cal Poly's last judging team (200 I),
Mangan knows just what kind of dedication it takes to succeed.
The team members spend about 30 hours per week practicing
2003-04 Judging Team L-R: Forrest Mangan,
Coach; Shauna Trusas; Dustin Van Liew;
judging and reasons. Practice that wi II payoff when the team
Lauren Everett; Jason Krafft; Jean Arambel; not
competes at shows like the National Western Stock Show in
shown: Hilary Aquino
Denver, Colorado; the Arizona National Livestock Show in
Phoenix, Arizona; the Houston Stock Show and Rodeo in
Houston, Texas; the Grand National Livestock Exposition (Cow Palace) in San Francisco; and the NOith Ameri
can International Livestock Exposition in Louisville, Kentucky.
"To stay competitive we need to stay on the road," explained Mangan. The team plans to attend as many
competitions as possible this year; however, lack of funds may prove to be a limiting factor.
Cal Poly first fielded a team in 1948, coached by Lyle Hoyt. Hoyt donated the original Cal Poly Live
stock Judging Team buckle to the animal science depaltment during the 100-Year Reunion. Cal Poly won the
National Championship in Louisville for the first and only time in 1977.
Dressage Team at Cal Poly
University approves new equestrian team
Dressage is an equestrian SPOlt in which
"Dressage is mostly an individual sport but IDA is
judges award points for the performance of the horse
designed to make dressage competition a team sport,"
and rider in a series of movements, testing both the
explained Katie Dougherty, Vice President of the Cal Poly
rider's control and the horse's training. At competi
Dressage Team.
tion, the school hosting the show provides all the
Last year, Cal Poly sent five riders to the National
horses used. A drawing at the beginning of competi
competition in Bristol, Virginia
tion assigns horses and riders;
placing first on the west coast
the riders are then given ten
and eighth in the nation.
minutes to warm up the horse
"Cal Poly is known for
before entering the ring.
predominately having western
Three years ago a group
riding programs, but IDA helps
of students formed a Dressage
represent the English side of
Team, although didn't gain
equestrian sports. It's important
recognition from Cal Poly until
for our school to represent all
this year. The team is part of the
aspects of the horse industry,
national organization, Intercolle
especially since we're an
giate Dressage Association
agriculture school," Dougherty
(IDA), along with other schools
said.
The 2003 Cal Poly Dressage Team
such as U.c. Davis, U.c. Santa
This year looks to be
Cruz, and Stanford.
another exciting season, with
Teams consist of four riders with varying
Cal Poly placing first in their initial competition. The Cal
levels of ability ranf,ing from intro to first level, which
Poly team hosted an IDA show on November 15, and will
is the most advanced level of collegiate dressage. Cal
host a second show on February 16,2004.
Poly usually sends two to four teams to each competi
tion.
...
••
•
p
Quarter Horse Enterprise a Success
For over IS years Mike Lund has been leading
the Quarter Horse Enterprise at Cal Poly. The enter
prise allows students to develop skil1s in starting horses
for snaffle bit and cutting horse futurity in-training
sales. The project uses two-year-old Quarter Horses
raised and bred at Cal Poly.
Each year six students are chosen for the
project, although many more apply. To be selected
students must show more than just an ability to ride.
Academic standing, grade point average, future career
goals, year in school, involvement at the horse unit,
and past experiences all factor in. However, equally
important are the student's attitude, cooperation and
responsibility. Students must go through an applica
tion and interview process and a riding evaluation.
"The enterprise puts students in charge of the
project's entire well-being. They are responsible for
the health and training of the animals, but also the
business side of everything, not to mention it's a great
networking opportunity," said Lund.
At the beginning of each project, students
develop a budget and then spend six months working
on the horses, preparing them for a large sale. After the
sale, students go through the budget again to see how
successful they were. Students receive ten percent of
the gross sales price from each horse.
October saw the comp'letion of the 2003 Quarter
Horse Enterprise with six horses sold at the National
Reined Cow Horse Association Snaffle Bit Futurity for
an average of $4,125.
Mike Lund
with student
Shavahn
Loux
Western Bonanza Turns 20
Students Plan Premier Junior Livestock Show
"Our goal was to make it to 20 years, and here
Each year Western Bonanza is directed entirely by
we are," said Wendy Hall, lecturer and advisor to Cal
a class of students. Committees form early in fall quarter
Poly's Western Bonanza. "It just gets bigger and better to begin the planning for the three-day event. "The stu
every year."
dents make the decisions, plan
The junior livestock
the weekend, and see the event
jackpot show began in 1984 as
through," Hall explained.
a senior project with 100
Leading the class are three co
entries of cattle. Twenty years
managers Robyn Christian,
later, Western Bonanza is one
Grady Gallagher, and Shauna
of the largest junior livestock
Trusas.
shows in the west offering
"Western Bonanza is
over 750 of the finest quality
way for students to feel like
cattle, sheep and hogs. This
they're a part of something
year marks the first time for a
bigger than just school. They
2004 Western Bonanza committee chairs
market goat and specialty
not
only help put on one of the
and managers
barrow show.
largest jackpot shows on the
The show allows exhibitors, ranging in age
west coast, but they get to meet leading industry contacts
from nine to 21, the chance to compete in market,
and best of all see the experiences that we provide for
breeding and showmanship classes. However, unlike
junior exhibitors that weekend," said Trusas.
other jackpots, Western Bonanza offers educational
This year's Western Bonanza will be held at the
opportunities during the weekend. Exhibitors have
California Mid-State Fairgrounds in Paso Robles on
entered in a Livestock Knowledge Contest, a Fitting
February 13-15.
Contest, and a Photo and Advertisement Design Con
test.
New Faculty and Staff nallled
~~
to Department
Dr. Daniel G. Peterson
began this fall as the animal
science department's molecular
biology, genomics and biotechnol
ogy professor. He attended UC
Davis where he earned his
Bachelor's degree in Animal
Science. Peterson then moved to
Cornell University in Ithaca, New
York, where he earned his Doctor
ate in animal science and nutri
tional biochemistry.
Peterson has been recog
nized for his research by the
American Society for Nutritional
Sciences, has received the presti
gious Maynard Award from
Cornell University for research
and service excellence, and has
been recognized for his teaching
excellence by the College of
Agriculture and Life Sciences at
Cornell University with the
Golden Apple Award. He has
collaborated with world leaders in
molecular nutrition in his studies
of the cellular mechanisms
underlying bioactive nutrient
compounds.
II-~
I/l)
({)tf{;({/
~U
.
I
I
-
.
Ryan Holt was recently
named as Cal Poly's new Poultry
Technician. The Cal Poly graduate
received a Bachelor's degree in
business administration with a minor
in poultry management. Holt brings
to the university valuable experience
in the egg industry as well as
packaging. He spent two years
working for Rainbow Farms in
Denair, California before moving to
Washington to work with Foster
Farms.
Holt oversees all aspects of
the poultry unit, including the birds,
facilities, egg sales and distribution,
and the 21 students involved in
various enterprises. Current projects
at the poultry unit include adding
tunnel ventilation to one of the
broiler houses, and a cover for the
rod conveyor that is used as part of
the egg gathering system.
"I'm excited about the
challenge of improving the facility
and all the opportunities available
here," said Holt of his new position.
Dr. Robert 1. Delmore, Jr.
has joined the faculty in the animal
science department. He teaches
meat science, processed meat
products and Hazard Analysis of
Critical Control Points (HACCP)
courses and will have oversight of
Cal Poly's USDA inspected
harvest and meat processing
facilities. Delmore is a graduate
of Cal Poly in food science and
received a Master's in animal
science from the University of
Nebraska-Lincoln. He earned his
Doctorate from Colorado State
University in animal science with
a concentration in meat science.
Delmore brings with him a
wealth of industry experience;
most recently, he was the Vice
President of Technical Services for
the Clougherty Packing Company
- Farmer John Meats. In this
position, he directed all company
food safety, microbiology, Hazard
Analysis of Critical Control Point
systems, quality assurance and
research and development.
Delmore has received national
recognition including Meat
Processing Magazine's Rising Star
Distinction in March 2000, and
was one of eight meat industry
professionals recognized as a
rising star in the meat and poultry
industry.
-
Animal Science at Cal Poly continues to grow and thrive because of generous
donations from alumni and friends. Today's animal science graduates are trained
with the most up-to-date equipment and technology because of supporters like you.
Thank you for your support and belief in our program!
6' www.anil11alscience.calpoly.edu
-
Curriculum Updated
The animal science department has added approximately 30 new courses to the curriculum. Most of these
courses are upper division, however some lower-division courses have been significantly revised as well.
"Many students felt that there weren't enough upper-division courses. The lower-division courses would
create an interest in a topic, but there weren't enough course offerings for them to pursue those interests in greater
depth." explained Dr. Jon Beckett, "so we added new courses, mostly science based, that increase the rigor and otIer
challenging topics that were otherwise not significantly addressed."
The new curriculum allows students the opportunity to study more subjects in greater detail. "There are
topics that each specie has in common, and the lower-division species classes had redundant information, so we took
that material out and created a whole new class. This allows the faculty to now go into a greater depth and breadth
of material within each species," said Beckett.
ASCI 450: Computer Applications in Animal Science is an example of one of the new courses. Students
gain computer skills, specifically with Excel as it relates to livestock production. This addition is due in part to
response from industry leaders who indicated their needs for employees who had greater quantitative and analytical
ski lis.
Other courses like ASCI 403: Applied Biotechnology in Animal Science, ASCI 405: Domestic Livestock
Endocrinology, ASCI 350: Nonruminant Nutrition and ASCI 406: Applied Animal Embryology, provide students
with learning opportunities in biotechnology, nutrition, reproduction and physiology.
"These kinds of classes spark an interest in continuing their education through graduate programs," Beckett
said. "Many students become interested in graduate school after taking them."
A committee of several faculty members in the department worked to develop the new curriculum. Part of
the challenge faced was increasing the number of classes without increasing the faculty. Beckett explained, "the
changes in the curriculum are meant to increase the knowledge base for students regarding the use of new technolo
gies in animal production. Consistent with the tradition of the animal science program, the focus is on the applica
tion of these tools to increase animal productivity."
"We will continue to strengthen our learning program for students to understand cutting-edge technologies,
along with transferable skills, such as leadership, team-building and effective communication skills," said Andy
Thulin, animal science department head.
47th Annual Bull Test Sale
Each May,
approximately 300
bulls are consigned
to Cal Poly's annual
Bull Test. Bulls
come from through
out California, as
.......-2-0-0-3-C-a.....I-P-o-'Y-B-u-II-T-e-s-t-Sa-I-e----' well as the sur
rounding western
states. However, in order for a bull to make the October
sale it must be indexed at 100 or better, and pass sound
ness and semen evaluations.
Over fifty students involved in the Bull Test
Enterprise oversee the daily care of the bulls. Among
other responsibilities, this includes marketing the bulls,
record keeping, sale preparation and daily health checks.
"We get a lot of exposure to the industry and
hands-on production experience," said Erin Lacy, 2002
Bull Test Secretary. "Students working on this project
learn how to run a bull test; what we're doing here is very
similar to what people are doing at all the other bull tests."
-~_~~-;yr------
- --
-
.
-
- ~-
I.II!L.~ -
The 47 annual Bull Sale took place on Sunday,
October 5,2003 at the Cal Poly Beef Unit. One hundred
seventeen yearling bulls were sold for an average price of
$2,200, the second highest average in the past 20 years.
"The success of the event was due in part to
moving the sale to a weekend," explained Mike Hall, Cal
Poly senior beef specialist. "Parking has always been an
issue during the week, and moving the date helped increase
attendance and create a more relaxed environment."
As pal1 of a new housing project, the beef unit,
including bull test, will soon be relocating to the Chorro
Creek Ranch.
Current location of
Bull Test pens
r=r.'-'
-
---------
-'.,---~--:
-
~~-
-
--
:fhe~Slock.Re ort V.,linler.03-04.,
'7
Department Activities
2004 Calendar of Events
Cal Poly's Collegiate Cattlemen Club sent a del
egation of men and wOl11en to attend the California
Cattlemen and Cattlewomen 's Associations Annual
Convention. The event was held in Reno, NY at
John Ascuaga 's Nugget November 19-21,2003 and
was a joint venture between the California and Ne
vada Cattlemen and Cattlewomen's Associations.
Over 15 students from Cal Poly listened to speak
ers and participated in committee meetings. Students
representing Chico State, Fresno State and Sierra
College were also in attendance. Two animal sci
ence students were recognized for their achieve
ments at the convention: Shauna Trusas won a
speech contest about country of origin labeling, and
Stephanie Quinn was named Collegiate Cattlemen
of the year for 2003-04.
January 28-31 NCBA Convention; Phoenix, AZ
February 13-15 Western Bonanza
April 16-17 Open House and Poly Royal
17
May 1
7-8
22
June 12
October 2-3
Ram Sale
FFA State Finals
Receive Bulls - Cal Poly Bull Test
Ranch Horse Sale
Spring Commencement
Bull Test Sale & Field Day
ANIMAL SCIENCE
T
S OCKREPOR
Published by Cal Poly's Animal Science Department as a link between the nation's premier animal science program and alumni and friends.
For more information contact:
Animal Science Department
P 805.756.2419
F 805.756.7403
Building 10, Room 141
On the world wide web at www.animalscience.calpoly.edu
Designer & Editor: Sarah Pursley
CAL POLY
Animal Science Department
San Luis Obispo, California 93407
Photography: Wendy Hall
Nonprofit Organization
U.S. Postage
PAID
San Luis Obsipo, CA
Permit No. 30