VALENTINE, Neb. – A calf sale fundraiser at Valentine Livestock Auction on Thurs., Feb. 27, will raise money for R-CALF USA’s efforts to overturn the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s electronic identification ear tag rule.

The rule, which took effect in Nov. 2024, mandates that certain cattle and bison have ear tags that are both visually and electronically readable. This applies to:

  • Sexually intact cattle and bison 18 months or older
  • All dairy cattle
  • Cattle and bison of any age used for rodeos, recreation, shows, or exhibitions

The Miles Ranch (Craig, Joy, and Caleb Miles) of Brownlee, Neb., Greg and Marie Arendt of Valentine, Neb., and Brett Galbraith of Wood, S.D., are donating a calf for the rollover fundraiser, which begins around 3:00 p.m.

In a rollover auction, supporters bid on a donated calf, then donate it back so it can be re-auctioned multiple times. The process continues until bidding ceases, with the final buyer taking the calf home.

Businesses and individuals who want to contribute to R-CALF USA’s efforts can contact the organization at 406-252-2516 or [email protected].