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Sponaugle receives 2008 Virginia BCIA award
 | | Virginia BCIA Commercial Producer of the Year, Caroline and Jim Sponaugle of Doe Hill with Dr. Scott Greiner (right). (Photo courtesy Virginia BCIA) |
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MONTEREY - Virginia Beef Cattle Improvement Association has presented the 2008 Virginia Outstanding Commercial Producer Award to Jim Sponaugle of Doe Hill. The Sponaugle cow-calf operation is recognized for its progressive approach to genetic improvement and marketing.
Sponaugle's Highland County operation consists of 180 commercial cows which are part of a diversified agricultural enterprise operated with his wife Caroline, sons Michael and Matthew, daughter Cathy and brother Harry.
The operation practices wholeherd artificial insemination and uses natural service sires primarily acquired through BCIA. Sponaugle keeps extensive computer records on his cow herd that allow for informed selection and management decisions to enhance the enterprise.
Sponaugle has been visionary in his approach to calf marketing. A longtime supporter of graded sales, he provided leadership for the adoption of progressive ideas for the local calf pool. He was in- strumental in initiating the Virginia Quality Assured value-added feeder calf marketing program in the area, as well as the adoption of age and source verification strategies.
Sponaugle's leadership to the beef industry has included two terms on the Virginia Cattlemen's Association Board of Directors where he also served as treasurer, and more than 10 years as president of the Highland-Bath Cattle Association.
Sponaugle was a member of the incorporating board to form the Virginia Cattlemen's Foundation and recently was appointed to the Virginia Cattle Industry Board. He is a member of the National Cattlemen's Beef Association and has been active with the Highland County Fair Board.
Additionally, Sponaugle serves on the Poultry Cooperative Board of Directors and the Soil and Water Conservation Board. He is strong supporter of educational programs, and has hosted cattlemen from Australia interested in his operation and genetics.
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