As the yard manager at Phelps County Feeders, Bryce Brown oversees the daily operations of two feedyards that house 52,000 head of cattle. His responsibilities include monitoring cattle health, supervising feed delivery, maintaining pens, and ensuring equipment is functioning properly. Tasks like pulling lot files or checking feed calls required frequent trips back to the office, which slowed him down and made it difficult to address issues in real time. “If I didn’t have Accu-Trac, I’d spend a lot of time running back and forth. By the time I’m done, I’d never get through everything,” Bryce says.

Features for all phases of the job

Bryce relies on several key features of Accu-Trac to streamline his work and reduce errors. One of the tools he uses most is the feed call system, which allows him to make real-time adjustments. For example, when the weather changes and feed adjustments are needed, he makes those calls from wherever he is at the moment—no backtracking to the office is needed.

Another feature Bryce frequently relies on is the Read-N-Feed® Bunk Reading system, which integrates with Accu-Trac to ensure accurate feeding. The GPS-enabled functionality prevents errors by alerting drivers if they are at the wrong pen. “That’s probably one of the most overlooked features,” says Bryce. “It catches mistakes before they happen, which is a big deal when you’re feeding all day.”

Bryce also values the inventory tracking and drug transaction tools within Accu-Trac. He and his team track what products they use each day, making reordering each week easier. The drug transaction tool connects medication records with inventory, cattle, and financial data in one system. Every treatment is tied to a specific animal or pen, which reduces mistakes and improves traceability.

The system also tracks real-time usage and on-hand quantities, so yard managers like Bryce avoid running out of critical supplies or dealing with unexplained losses. With clear, accurate data at his fingertips, Bryce can make smarter decisions for Phelps County Feeders while saving valuable time.

Accuracy for smarter decisions and time savings

Accu-Trac has delivered significant benefits to Bryce and the entire operation at Phelps County Feeders. One of the biggest advantages is the time it saves, allowing Bryce to accomplish more in a day. He spends the time he saves observing or training employees. “It makes the whole yard better if you're able to spend time with your guys and not with a piece of paper on the inventory sheet,” he acknowledges.

The system also enhances accuracy and reduces human error, particularly in feeding operations. With feed truck drivers putting in long days in the feed truck, there are opportunities for errors because the work of batching, mixing, and delivering is so repetitive.

Features like the GPS-enabled bunk reader ensure that every animal gets the right ration at the right time. Alarms ensure mistakes are stopped even before they start.

Another benefit is the ability to make data-driven decisions in real time. Bryce can adjust feed calls, monitor animal health, and manage inventory all from his tablet without leaving the yard, giving him greater control and flexibility.

Building on a trusted partnership

Bryce encourages other feedyards to consider implementing Accu-Trac, emphasizing its ability to save time and improve efficiency. “There’s no doubt in my mind that it’s going to save you lots of headaches and time. Your time is very expensive, and this system makes everything more efficient.”

He also highlighted the importance of the relationship with MWI Animal Health and Micro Technologies. Bryce has worked with Micro Technologies for over twenty years and values their knowledgeable team and responsive service.

Over the years, Bryce has seen how Accu-Trac has evolved to meet the needs of feedyards like Phelps County Feeders. From streamlining feed truck operations to integrating inventory management, the system continues to improve. “It’s clear they’re always working to make it better for their customers.”