We all know of someone who has fed at one of the super-sized feedlots and come
away confused and frustrated by the experience.
Size Does Matter
Wherever you house massive amounts of cattle, you’re going to rely upon a lot of
employees. And no matter their position or profit-sharing package, these employees at the
big lots cannot provide the level of specialized care and feeding for the cattle that a
feedlot owner can.
Because of our small size, all of us are working with and caring for your cattle —
employees, overseers, and owners alike. Because we have the same person riding pens every
day, our average death loss rate is lower than the industry average, and sick cattle have a
shorter recovery time.
This hands-on approach is what has helped us to succeed for four generations.
Four Generations — One Commitment
Silver Creek Feeders is a four-generation family owned and operated feedlot.
In 1927 a newly-married Harry Husz purchased a tract of land in southwest Iowa near what is
now Treynor, Iowa, from his bride’s father. Despite hardships and setbacks, Harry and
his family were able to flourish and grow the operation.
Harry’s son-in-law, Robert Chambers, joined the operation in 1949. Robert shared
Harry’s enthusiasm and they worked together for nearly 20 years. Robert became a
pioneer in land stewardship and conservation. Under Robert’s direction, a feedlot
expansion plan with an emphasis on conservation was implemented.
In 1982 when Robert became ill, his son, Roger Chambers, took over the operation. Roger has
worked hard to grow the feedlot while honoring his father’s environmental legacy. With
over 20 years’ experience, along with his understanding, his progressive attitude, and
his accessibility, Roger has become one of the most successful feeders in Iowa.
Roger’s ingrained understanding of the cattle business, progressive attitude, and
accessibility has helped Silver Creek Feeders succeed over the years. He has served on
numerous committees for the Iowa Cattlemen’s Association and National
Cattlemen’s Beef Association. Roger continually works to be a low-cost producer for
cattlemen, whether it’s through his implant and preventive health programs,
supplementation programs, or forage production.
Roger works tirelessly to keep our customers informed. He communicates with our customers
regularly and visits their operations many times a year. He provides our customers with the
one-on-one attention they deserve and appreciate.
Today, Roger is joined by his sons, Barrett and Kellin Chambers. Both brothers, members of
the Iowa Cattlemen’s Association, work on the feedlot full time. Kellin participated
in the Iowa Cattlemen’s Young Leadership program. Barrett maintains all our crop
production, planting, equipment maintenance, and harvests. Kellin is our agronomist who
tells us what to plant, when to spray, and runs the day-to-day operations. Together they
work as a quality management team that focuses on customer care, low-cost production, and
technology. Our sons cover so many of the bases and keep this operation running smoothly.
Family is the heart of this business, and we’re proud of them.