The 24th annual North Dakota Stockmen’s Association (NDSA) Feedlot Tour will be held June 16 and feature two stops near Drake, N.D. The feedlots, operated by Rodney Schatz and Andrew Bromley, both include backgrounding operations and practical facility designs that support cattle management, environmental stewardship and efficiency. The tour will depart from Enerbase of Drake, along U.S. Highway 52, at 10:30 a.m. CT and return there at approximately 3 p.m. CT.
Here’s a tour preview:
The first stop will be at Rodney Schatz’s feedlot near Drake at 11 a.m. CT. Schatz operates an open-lot backgrounding facility that was permitted for 600 head in 2017. The operation has continued to evolve with infrastructure improvements designed to enhance cattle flow and daily management. The feedlot features concrete heavy-use pads, continuous-poured concrete bunks and rubber tire waterers. A custom-designed processing barn includes a double alley and Bud Box system to improve cattle handling efficiency. The operation also reflects the involvement of the next generation, with Schatz’s sons, Jon, Wyatt and Austin, participating in the family business. Lunch will be served at the Schatz feedlot at noon before the tour departs for the second stop at 1 p.m. CT.
At 1:30 p.m. CT, the tour will visit Andrew Bromley’s feedlot near Drake. Bromley operates an open-lot backgrounding facility that was permitted for 999 head in 2019. The operation includes continuous-poured concrete bunks and Ritchie waterers, along with in-pen lighting to support management during low-light conditions. Bromley also utilizes the facility to develop bred heifers, highlighting another management component within the operation. The tour will leave the Bromley feedlot at 2:30 p.m.
There is no cost to attend. Pre-registration is not required, but is appreciated for planning purposes. To pre-register, contact NDSA Environmental Services Director Scott Ressler at (701) 223-2522 or sressler@ndstockmen.org.
