Frequently Asked Questions
We know buying beef in bulk is a big decision, and we’re here to make it simple. Here’s what to expect from our Certified Angus Beef® Ranch-to-Table program.
About the Cow
Is The Beef Locally Raised?
Yes. Our cattle are born, raised, and finished right here in Northern Colorado. We take pride in being involved every step of the way so you can trust exactly where your beef comes from. By combining thoughtful genetics, herd health protocols, and hands-on management, we raise beef that’s not only flavorful but responsibly produced.
What Does Pasture-Raised, Corn-Finished Mean?
Our cattle are raised on open pasture for the majority of their lives, allowing them to grow and develop on pasture grass. In the final few months, we finish them on a corn-based ration developed with a professional nutritionist to optimize marbling, tenderness, and the rich, classic beef flavor you expect. It’s the best of both worlds, natural growth and exceptional taste.
What Kind Of Cattle Do You Raise?
We raise Angus-influenced cattle selected for their performance, temperament, and ability to grade well on the rail. After five generations of raising cattle, we’ve learned what it takes to produce beef with consistent quality and superior eating experience every time.
Do You Use Hormones Or Antibiotics?
No added hormones are ever used. We do prioritize animal welfare, and that means if a calf is sick, we will treat them with antibiotics when medically necessary. Any animal treated is tracked and held out of our beef sales program until it clears all appropriate withdrawal periods.
About the Beef
What Is Certified Angus Beef®?
Certified Angus Beef® is the highest-quality grade of Angus beef, selected for superior marbling, tenderness, juiciness, and flavor. Less than 1 in 3 Angus cattle meets the brand’s standards, and we’re proud to raise beef that qualifies.
Learn More About Certified Angus Beef®
How Long Is The Beef Aged?
Our beef is dry-aged for a minimum of 14 days in a temperature-controlled environment. This natural aging process deepens flavor and enhances tenderness, giving you a rich, premium eating experience.
Is Your Beef USDA Inspected?
Absolutely. Every animal is USDA inspected for both safety and quality. To qualify for the Certified Angus Beef® Ranch to Table program, our beef must meet the brand’s standards—including USDA quality grading. Only the top 2/3 of Choice and Prime grades make the cut, ensuring you’re getting consistently tender, juicy, and flavorful beef.
How Is The Beef Packaged?
All of our beef is vacuum sealed in individual, freezer-ready portions. This packaging locks in freshness, preserves flavor, and makes it easy to thaw just what you need. Each cut is clearly labeled, so stocking your freezer and planning dinner is simple.
About the Ordering Process
How Do I Place An Order?
You can reserve your beef share right now! Just visit our Order Now page to place your $200 deposit, which holds your share for a quarter of beef and goes toward your final balance. We’ll follow up with everything you need once your animal is harvested.
Want a full breakdown of the process? Visit our How It Works page for all the details.
How Much Does It Cost?
The total cost of your beef share includes two parts:
1. The cost of the beef, paid to us at Hilltop Hay and Livestock
2. The processing fee, paid directly to 307 Meat Company
We sell our beef by the hanging weight, which means you’re only paying for the actual amount of beef your animal yields, no guesswork or rounding.
To give you a ballpark idea:
-A quarter beef typically costs $1,180 to $1,400 total. That includes $850–$950 for the beef and $375–$450 for processing.
-A half beef generally ranges from $2,450 to $2,800, with $1,700–$1,900 going toward the beef and $750–$900 to the processor.
-A whole beef comes in between $4,900 and $5,600, made up of $3,400–$3,800 for the beef and $1,500–$1,800 for processing.
The final total varies based on the size of the animal and your custom cut instructions, but we’ll always send you an exact invoice before any final payment is due.
Why Split It Up?
We want you to see exactly where your dollars go—what’s paid for the care, feed, and stewardship of the animal, and what’s paid for professional butchering and wrapping. That’s part of our promise to be transparent and trustworthy.
How Much Beef Is Right For Me?
We sell our beef by the quarter, so you can choose the amount that fits your family best. Here’s a general guide to help you decide:
Still not sure how much beef is right for your household? Reach out and we’ll help you find the best fit for your family, your freezer, and your budget.
Do You Ship Your Beef?
At this time, we do not offer shipping. We keep it local, just the way we like it.
Pickup options:
-Free at 307 Meat Company in Laramie, WY
-$25 per quarter for local pickup at Hilltop Hay and Livestock on a scheduled date
Still Have Questions?
Don’t hesitate to reach out, we’re happy to walk you through the process, explain the cuts, or help you pick the right share for your family.
Hilltop Hay and Livestock
Quality you can trust. Values you can see.