Bull Barn 2025 Service Award

The Beef Reproduction Task Force is proud to announce Eldon and Kathy Starr of Bull Barn Genetics, Stapleton, Nebraska, as recipients of the 2025 Service to Industry Award in the AI Service Technician category. The award was presented during the Applied Reproductive Strategies in Beef Cattle (ARSBC) meeting held September 17–18 in North Platte, Nebraska.

This prestigious award recognizes individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the advancement and adoption of artificial insemination (AI) and estrous synchronization in the beef industry. Eldon and Kathy Starr have been pioneers in the field for nearly six decades, providing leadership, education, and unmatched service to cattle producers across Nebraska and the United States.

Eldon began his AI career in 1968, following in the footsteps of his father. Over the years, he became a trusted advisor to producers, helping introduce European exotic breeds and guiding customers through the strengths and challenges of new genetics. He was also an early adopter of synchronization protocols, offering Cedar Top Ranch as a trial site for Synchromate B in its early development.

Together, Eldon and Kathy built Bull Barn Genetics into a nationally respected business, marketing semen from over ten major beef breeds and representing seven national AI organizations. Their dedication to customer service, technical expertise, and industry innovation has earned them top sales awards and the deep respect of producers and peers alike.

In addition to their genetics services, Eldon provides liquid nitrogen delivery to over 600 tanks throughout the Nebraska Sandhills—an essential service that enables producers to continue using AI technologies. Their efforts have helped producers improve herd genetics, increase reproductive success, and access stronger markets for AI-derived cattle.

As Eldon and Kathy prepare to transition Bull Barn Genetics to the next generation in 2025, this award serves as a fitting tribute to their lifelong commitment to advancing reproductive technologies in the beef industry.

More than 250 producers, veterinarians, and representatives from the artificial insemination (AI) and pharmaceutical industries were in attendance at this year’s ARSBC. The Beef Reproduction Task Force together with the national Beef Reproduction Leadership Team work to promote wider adoption of reproductive technologies among cow-calf producers; educate cow-calf producers in management considerations that will increase the likelihood of successful AI breeding; and educate producers in marketing options to capture benefits that result from use of improved reproductive technologies.