WELCOME

   The KEG Hereford Ranch is a family operation located north of Valentine, NE just off the edge of the Nebraska Sandhills. We have been raising Hereford and Hereford-Angus cross cows here for over 40 years.

   The cowherd consists of registered Hereford and Red Angus cows as well as a commercial herd of Hereford-Angus cross cows. Our focus is on raising efficient, low maintenance cattle that will maximize profits for both the cow-calf producer and the feedlot while still providing a quality product for the end consumer.

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   At KEG Hereford Ranch we combine traditional animal husbandry with the latest in animal science, common sense cowboy logic, and the latest technology.  In addition to utilizing typical weight measurements (plus a few extras), ultrasound, DNA technology, and feedlot data, our yearling bull are also tested for feed efficiency (RFI) each year.

  We believe in cross breeding, especially the Hereford-Angus cross. Our simple two breed crisscross system gives us a high quality mother cow by maintaining a high level of heterosis. These cows raise steers that consistently finish in the top third for net profit in the feedlot.

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  In 2025, Ken & Marilyn Stephens started a partnership with a young rancher to continue on their legacy. Caden Billings, a native of Valentine, Nebraska, came home to his family's ranch after graduating from the University of Nebraska with a degree in Grazing Livestock Systems. He worked part time for the Stephens before buying their commercial cowherd. Cadens work ethic and knowledge for pasture management adds excitement to the future of the KEG Hereford Ranch.