Windy Ridge Simmentals was founded in 2004 by Dr. Tom and Kristi (Mobley) Rathje, along with our children Katie, Grant and Josie. Tom and Kristi have been part of the livestock genetics industry since being involved with family livestock and farming operations in Iowa. Both attended Iowa State University majoring in Animal Science and later the University of Nebraska where Kristi completed her B.S. in Animal Science (‘91) and Tom his M.S. (‘91) and Ph.D. (‘95) degrees in livestock genetics and an MBA degree (‘05).

Working on the executive team for Danbred North America, Tom plays a key role in the development and growth of the second largest swine genetics company in North America. As Chief Technology Officer, Tom is responsible for the implementation of genetic improvement programs within the company’s breed populations, working with large corporate accounts on customized genetic programs and implementing new technologies in both company and customer operations.

We believe that many of the approaches to genetic improvement used in other livestock industries can be better utilized in the beef industry to improve its competitive position. We have a clear, long-term vision of producing ‘balanced’ cattle that excel in traits that have the greatest impact on the bottom line, focusing on growth, reproduction, carcass characteristics and longevity. We believe that these genetic improvement goals can be combined with superior phenotypes to produce cattle that excel in the show ring, pasture and feedlot.

We strive to deliver this genetic improvement to the beef industry through extensive use if A.I., embryo transfer, performance testing and molecular genetic technologies as they become proven to be useful and relevant tools for genetic advancement.

By using a ‘genetic nucleus’ model, we have selected females based on their proven or promising ability to increase the economic value of the Simmental breed and deliver improved profitability to seedstock as well as commercial operations. Our herd consists of top performing daughters and granddaughters from many well-known Simmental donors such as NJC Ebony Antoinette, NJC Black Jewell, NJC Love Me Don’t U, 42B, STF Desa Rae, BLK Josie 43B 755G, SVF Expectation, LF Kandy Kisses, Hart Hollywood Queen, Triple C Rewards Queen, Triple C Go Girl, BH Miss MT 02K and many other females.

Our customers are very important to us, and we care about your success. We will stand behind our cattle and ensure that you are pleased with your purchase. Give us a call anytime to discuss your needs or what we have to offer your program.