Episode 7: No Backbone, No Herd: Restoring Forgotten Genetics With Hays Boyd

Episode 7: No Backbone, No Herd: Restoring Forgotten Genetics With Hays Boyd

When nine-year-old Hays Boyd set out to find heat-tolerant, good-natured cattle that could thrive on grass, he had no idea his research would lay the foundation for one of America’s premier Murray Grey herds. Now a veterinarian and third-generation rancher, Hayes shares the journey of Backbone Ranch—where a commitment to practical, efficient genetics is reshaping the industry.

From combing through decades-old breed newsletters as a teenager to sourcing semen from the first Murray Grey bulls imported to the U.S. in the 1960s, Hays took an unconventional path to restoring forgotten genetics. With a focus on longevity and efficiency, Backbone Ranch selects for cattle that last—like females still producing past age 12 and bulls from proven maternal lines.

Hays also brings a veterinarian’s insight into the structural soundness issues plaguing the industry, contrasting them with the durability of his low-maintenance herd in the Texas heat. His customers—both ranchers and restaurants—have discovered that Murray Grey cattle don’t just survive, they excel. Whether grass-finished or grain-fed, they deliver premium beef quality with unmatched efficiency.

If you’re interested in genetics that work in the real world—without the extra inputs—tune in to hear Hays Boyd’s take on building better cattle from the ground up. Learn more at https://www.backboneranch.com/.

Connect with Hays Boyd & Backbone Ranch:

Website: https://www.backboneranch.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100078894004341

Bos Sires: https://www.bossires.com/backbone-ranch

Check out Bos Sires:

Website: https://www.bossires.com/

Bos Sires Catalog: International New Bos Sires Catalog (English)

Support the Podcast

If you enjoy the show and want to support our mission of restoring sustainable, long-lasting genetics to the cattle industry, consider joining our Patreon community. Your support helps us continue producing valuable content for ranchers and cattle enthusiasts worldwide.

Join us on Patreon: [https://www.patreon.com/bossirestalk]