Getting to Know the Premier Breeders: Pacific Edge Jerseys
Joe and Sarah Rocha and family, Tillamook, Ore., have had a most memorable 2021 show season. Their Pacific Edge Jersey herd garnered awards from the west coast to east coast this past fall. It all culminated in Louisville, Ky., at the All American Jersey Show.
Pacific Edge Jerseys found great success in the open show, especially in the National Jersey Jug Futurity placing second and third. They also did well in the young cow classes with a Reserve All American Senior Two-Year-Old, and entries in the Summer Junior Two-Year-Old and Junior Three-Year-Old top ten. The Rochas added to their herd and show string with purchases from well known Arethusa and Ratliff bloodlines that placed well in the open show.
The Pacific Edge herd is enrolled on REAP and home to more than 1,100 milking Jerseys. The Jersey Journal caught up with them to talk about the 2021 accomplishments.
How did it feel to be awarded Premier Breeder of the All American Jersey Show?
Being named Premier Breeder of the 2021 All American Jersey show was a lifetime achievement goal.
What everyday tasks went into preparing your string for the All American Jersey Show?
Preparing for the show is a team effort from the beginning and is a 365-day commitment.
Tell me about the story behind the cows that won?
One dam had three daughters show at this year’s All American Jersey Show. Ratliff Colton Darien-ET is the dam of Pacific Edge Premier Diva- ET, Pacific Edge Gentry Drake- ET, and Pacific Edge Gunman Deviant- ET.
What is your favorite memory from the All American Jersey Show this week?
Participating in our first National Jersey Jug Futurity. We ended up having two cows in the top three of the class. Pacific Edge Colton Jazmin- ET was the Reserve Winner and Pacific Edge Premier Kahlua-ET took third place.
What does a show day look like for you at the All American Jersey Show?
Our show “day” starts with the Jersey Jug on Saturday and would continue on Sunday with bagging for the show. We are not able to sleep or even nap until all shows are over.
How many people are behind the scenes and what are their different roles?
It takes a village. We tie with the same people every year. A group of fitters and feeders help get the cattle ready. At home, one son takes care of the farm while the rest of us are at the show. We keep the show cows on a program all year leading up to the shows and following. One of the fitters that works with us is a partner on some cows. Everyone has a vested interest.
Are there any traditions you hold at shows, especially the All American Jersey Show?
Every show morning, we take a shot and rally as a team.
