By Blake Jackson
Southeastern Missouri cattle producers are invited to participate in Cow College Workshops this May, presented by University of Missouri Extension specialists in livestock, agronomy, and agricultural business and policy.
Jason C. Morris, MU Extension agricultural business specialist, highlights the beef industry's significant $1.6 billion contribution to Missouri's economy.
Morris notes that "prolonged drought conditions in some areas have depleted pasturelands and hayfields, causing fluctuations in forage quality that have left many producers scrambling for supplemental feed."
Simultaneously, "other rising input costs, animal health and the need for cost-effective heifer development strategies have forced cattlemen to rethink traditional herd management practices." Fortunately, Morris adds, "calf prices are strong and offer great opportunities for farm income."
To help producers navigate these challenges, MU Extension is launching the Cow College Workshops. Morris states, "Between unpredictable weather patterns and the constant battle to maintain herd health, ranchers need access to the latest research and practical solutions to maximize farm income."
These workshops aim to provide "beef producers in Southeast Missouri with education related to hay and forage evaluation, cattle health management, heifer selection and cost-effective development strategies." Participants will gain "practical skills to enhance their operations" through interactive presentations, demonstrations, and real-world insights.
Key workshop topics include: Forage & Hay Quality Assessment (covering soil health and weed management), Cattle Health & Development (focusing on body condition score and heifer development), Heifer Selection & Development (analyzing heifer costs versus replacement), and Economic Sustainability (exploring Livestock Risk Protection).
Event details are as follows: Mondays, May 5 and May 12, from 5-8:30 p.m. at Grandin City Hall, Grandin (register at https://extension.missouri.edu/events/ripley-carter-county-cow-college-workshop); and Tuesdays, May 6 and May 13, from 5-8:30 p.m. at the Madison County Ambulance District, Fredericktown (register at https://extension.missouri.edu/events/madison-iron-wayne-county-cow-college-workshop).
Producers are encouraged to register early due to limited space. The cost is $20, with an additional $10 per family member.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-imaginegolf
Categories: Missouri, Livestock, Beef Cattle