Silver Hills is the first farm in BC to raise Lowline cattle. Lowlines are low maintenance, easy to calf, easy to handle and good for smaller pastures – perfect for cattle farmers.
Lowlines are about 100 – 150 centimeters tall but can weigh up to 600 kgs. They are about 60% the size of standard cattle. Holsteins for example have relatively long legs. Most Lowlines are black but some are ‘red’ or rather a rusty kind of colour. They are very docile, so naturally, they are also very suitable animals for a 4-H project to halter train and show.
The original Aberdeen Angus stock was exported from Canada in the 1920s to Australia for developing the beef industry there. In 1974, an important research project was launched which focused on the effects of genetic selection for growth rate to yearling age. Three groups evolved: "Highline", "Lowline" and "Control Line". When the experiment ended in 1992, it was found that the Highlines were bigger and grew faster but the Lowlines were more efficient converters of grass to meat. Lowlines were first imported into Canada in 1996. (http://www.lowlinecattleassoc.com.au/)
They thrive on being grass fed and being of true Angus, they adapt well to all weather conditions and climates – so staying outside in winter is not an issue. They have a 30% higher rib eye cut proportionately. Many feel the beef is more tender, tastier and makes for smaller cuts – which the market is demanding more and more.