Extension
It Starts With Us
Author: Robert Kirby
Major Program: Beef
With the winter and spring of 2018 and 2019 being one of the wettest in history, cattle farmers in Knox County experienced overwhelming damage to high traffic areas and pastures because of the wet conditions and mud. Because of the issues, Dr. Ray Smith was invited to the Knox County Cattlemen's Association monthly meeting in March to present an educational program on recommendations concerning renovation of damaged areas, resewing areas and educating producers of pros and cons of different
Author: Michelle Simon
Major Program: Beef
Northern Kentucky is well known for its unique topography and beef cattle production that fits the land so well. According to the 2017 USDA Agriculture Census data, there are approximately 25,250 head of cattle in the Northern Kentucky counties. These numbers have held steady and even increased despite the rapid growth of suburban and commercial areas. This consistency and growth in beef cattle production is a direct result of producer participation in Cooperative Extension programming including
Author: Corinne Belton
Major Program: Beef
Educating local beef producers is a high priority in Shelby County. According to the 2012 Census of Agriculture, Shelby County has nearly $15 million in beef animal sales yearly, emphasizing the need for beef producers to take herd management and breeding decisions seriously. Field days serve to educate cattlemen regarding important production principles while demonstrating practices in a practical, on-farm setting. With these facts in mind, Agriculture Extension agents in Oldham
Author: Don Sorrell
Major Program: Beef
2019 was a year of ever changing weather events that have impacted the livestock industry in Northern KY in a very negative way. Winter /spring rains led to mud, poor nutrition, loss of body condition of animals and even death of livestock. Rain continued through the month of June delaying hay harvest that resulted in late cutting hay as well as reduced yields and forage quality. The summer heat of July and August reduced second cutting yields. This was followed by excessive heat and dry w
Author: Kendal Bowman
Major Program: Beef
Cattle producers who are interested in understanding today’s feeder calf market and grades attended Feeder Calf Grading School hosted by Owen and Franklin County Cooperative Extension Services. The single session was held at United Producers Inc. Stockyards in Owenton KY on October 3rd, 2019. Speakers Tim Dietrich from Kentucky Department of Agriculture’s Office of Agricultural Marketing and Jodee Inman from U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Agricultural Marketing Service explai
Author: Clinton Hardy
Major Program: Beef
The cost of production, in all aspects of agriculture, continues to increase while prices remain stable or decrease. This scenario requires producers to analyze each decision as it relates to margin management. For cow/calf operations, the cost of replacement breeding stock often takes 9 years before a positive return on investment occurs. The need to cull typically coincides with the conclusion of this period, leaving salvage value as the only profit. Understanding genet
Author: John Fourqurean
Major Program: Beef
The cost of production, in all aspects of agriculture, continues to increase while prices remain stable or decrease. This scenario requires producers to analyze each decision as it relates to margin management. For cow/calf operations, the cost of replacement breeding stock often takes 9 years before a positive return on investment occurs. The need to cull typically coincides with the conclusion of this period, leaving salvage value as the only profit. Understanding genet
Author: Vicki Shadrick
Major Program: Beef
The cost of production, in all aspects of agriculture, continues to increase while prices remain stable or decrease. This scenario requires producers to analyze each decision as it relates to margin management. For cow/calf operations, the cost of replacement breeding stock often takes 9 years before a positive return on investment occurs. The need to cull typically coincides with the conclusion of this period, leaving salvage value as the only profit. Understanding genet
Author: Jason Phillips
Major Program: Beef
According to the 2017 Census of Agriculture, the beef industry in Simpson County accounts for nearly 4 million dollars in annual sales and is home to over 9,000 cattle and calves. Cattle production remains stable in Simpson County with many new producers showing interest. Beef production is an integral portion of both large and small scale farming enterprises in this area.Based on local stakeholders programming requests, the Simpson County Extension Agent for Agriculture held a Beef
Author: Glen Roberts
Major Program: Beef
Collaborators: UK Beef IRM Nutrition Specialists, KY Farm Bureau Federation, Wayne County Farm Bureau Federation, ANR Agent Glen Roberts, KSU Small Farm Assistant, and Wayne County Cattlemen`s Association mineral committeeSituation: After attending Master Cattlemen and other beef nutrition educational sessions taught by University of KY Beef nutrition specialists Wayne County Cattlemen became aware of the need to purchase better minerals for their cowherds. They also learned that they could save
Author: Samuel Cofield
Major Program: Beef
The Trigg County Cooperative Extension Service in Cooperation with the Trigg County Cattlemen's Association partnered to help livestock producers better manage their herds and meet their individual goals. One way we help producers is through our IRM mineral program. Three times each year the ANR agent in cooperation with a committee of Cattlemen’s members collects bids from local feed suppliers on free choice minerals formulated per the UK IRM specs. The best prices a
Author: Leann Martin
Major Program: Beef
Responsibility and commitment, animal science knowledge, record keeping, marketing, and leadership are all key components of a successful livestock operation. To help students gain a better understanding of each of these skills, the Logan County Cooperative Extension Service in partnership with the Logan County Cattlemen’s Association and Logan County Hog Committee, sponsored the 2019 4-H & FFA Youth Market Steer/Heifer Show, Sale, and Carcass Contest and the 2019 Logan County Youth Te
Author: Steven Musen
Major Program: Beef
With over 36,000 acres of pastureland and close proximity to several stockyards, USDA slaughter facilities and urban direct-marketing opportunities through specialty grocery outlets and farmers’ markets, Jessamine County is uniquely positioned to expand and enhance its already strong beef cattle industry. According to the USDA Census of Agriculture, Jessamine County has 238 farms producing beef cattle with a total of 15,570 cattle and calves sold with a total value of over $15 million each
Author: Whitney Carman
Major Program: Beef
Based on the 2017 Census of Agriculture, beef production in counties surrounding Grayson County have on average, 35% of their livestock/poultry income from beef production. Each of the counties do various programs throughout the year, but to combine efforts, the Grayson County Agriculture & Natural Resources Agent reached out to surrounding counties to gauge interest in hosting a regional approach to a field day. Counties that would participate would be Grayson, Breckinridge, Edmonson, Hanco
Author: David Embrey
Major Program: Beef
Based on the 2017 Census of Agriculture, beef production in counties surrounding Edmonson County have on average, 35% of their livestock/poultry income from beef production. Each of the counties do various programs throughout the year, but to combine efforts, the Grayson County Agriculture & Natural Resources Agent reached out to surrounding counties to gauge interest in hosting a regional approach to a field day. Counties that would participate would be Grayson, Breckinridge, Edmonson, Hanc
Author: Eric Baker
Major Program: Beef
Kentucky has 38,000 cattle farms with more than 2.15 million head. Estill County has 4,000 beef cows and 7,300 cows/calves. With livestock and commodity prices low, local cattle producers are looking for innovations that can make their farms more efficient and profitable. In response, the UK Cooperative Extension agent for agriculture and natural resources in Estill County organized an educational meeting December 14, 2019. UK Director of Environmental Compliance for the Kentucky Agricultural Ex
Author: Don Sorrell
Major Program: Beef
During the winter and early spring of 2019, beef cattle health and nutrition became a major concern. This was primarily due to poor hay quality and weather related issues such as excessive rain and mud. To address the nutritional needs of beef cattle (going into the winter of 2019-2020) the Extension Service developed two programs: Feeding the Cow Herd During the Winter and Forage Testing and Ration Balancing. The ANR agent worked with Dr. Jimmy Henning and local beef pr
Author: Tad Campbell
Major Program: Beef
The Buffalo Trace Agriculture and Horticulture Agents hosted the annual Farm School for Women Program with four evening sessions dealing with diversification and production practices. Sessions included management and arrangement of a cut flower operation, pasture dangers for beef cows, chute-side beef quality assurance, and agriculture profitability. The hands-on meetings allowed the 22 women to gain knowledge through participation with the activities. Participants learned wha
Author: Corinne Belton
Major Program: Beef
Shelby County, like many other formerly tobacco-dependent counties, has seen an emphasis on quality beef production since the tobacco buyout. According to the 2012 Census of Agriculture, Shelby County has nearly $15 million in beef animal sales yearly, emphasizing the need for beef producers to take herd management and breeding decisions seriously. Similar situations exist in neighboring Henry and Oldham counties, leading the agents to host the 2019 Master Cattlemen’s Series. The
Author: Michelle Simon
Major Program: Beef
Boone County ANR Agent collaborated with several industry partners including Select Sires Mid-America, Carrollton Veterinary Service, and Richwood Farms to teach producers innovative techniques and protocols to more intensively manage their cattle herds with the goal of increasing efficiency and productivity. Fourteen producers became certified to artificially inseminate cattle by Select Sires Mid-America trainers after completing a three day course organized by the Boone County ANR Agent that i
Author: Kendal Bowman
Major Program: Beef
While many producers participate in Beef Quality and Care Assurance (BQCA or BQA) trainings because they are mandatory for the livestock cost- share, there has been research proving there is a financial benefit for BQCA certified producers as well. According to a recent study by the Beef Checkoff-funded BQA program and conducted by Colorado State University (CSU), results show a significant premium for calves and feeder cattle sold through video auction markets. On July 29th and 30th Owen
Author: Samantha Anderson
Major Program: Beef
The 2017 Census of Agriculture reports that Graves County ranks 48th in production of cattle and calves statewide. While beef cattle production may not be the highest grossing industry in the county., the education of the cattleman/cattlewoman in Graves County still warrants consideration. In partnership with local producer, Mary Ann Ellison, and University of Kentucky forage specialist Dr. Chris Teutsch a pasture walk and fencing demonstration was held in early November.The program consisted of
Author: David Coffey
Major Program: Beef
On December 17, 2019, four ANR agents, four University specialists and thirty-six producers from Laurel, Jackson, Clay, Knox, and Whitley counties came together for an entire day of profit increasing and cost cutting information to be used in their cattle operations. Producers learned how to manage overhead costs, manage the costs of hay production, understand the depreciation of breeding stock, improve winter feeding practices, determine correct stocking rates, and manage farm taxes.Producers w
Author: Jeffrey Casada
Major Program: Beef
On December 17, 2019, four ANR agents, four University specialists and thirty-six producers from Laurel, Jackson, Clay, Knox, and Whitley counties came together for an entire day of profit increasing and cost cutting information to be used for their cattle operations. Producers learned how to manage overhead costs, manage the costs of hay production, understand the depreciation of breeding stock, improve winter feeding practices, determine correct stocking rates, and manage farm taxes.Producers
Author: Victor Williams
Major Program: Beef
On December 17, 2019, four ANR agents, four University specialists and thirty-six producers from Laurel, Jackson, Clay, Knox, and Whitley counties came together for an entire day of profit increasing and cost cutting information to be used for their cattle operations. Producers learned how to manage overhead costs, manage the costs of hay production, understand the depreciation of breeding stock, improve winter feeding practices, determine correct stocking rates, and manage farm taxes.Producers
Author: Keenan Bishop
Major Program: Beef
While many producers participate in Beef Quality and Care Assurance (BQCA or BQA) trainings because they are mandatory for the livestock cost- share, there is research proving that there is a financial benefit for BQCA certified producers as well. According to a recent study by the Beef Checkoff-funded BQA program and conducted by Colorado State University (CSU), results show a significant premium for calves and feeder cattle sold through video auction markets.On July 29th and 30th Owen an
Author: Matthew Chadwick
Major Program: Beef
Cattlemen's group met in the fall to discuss how to increase attendance at beef cattle related extension programs in Calloway County, normal attendance was running around 15 people. The group brain stormed about new topics and time of year for hosting meetings, and how to market those programs. The first meeting of 2020 that implemented those plans saw an increase in attendance of 200%. We are also hosting our first regional program in February and a state wide field day in the summer.
Author: Matthew Chadwick
Major Program: Beef
The Regional Cow Calf Conference was hosted by the majority of the counties in the purchase and western half of the pennyroyal, the response of the producers present was overwhelming in both quantity and quality. Of the 47 producers present there was over 3200 head of mama cows represented, they indicated that they all learned something that would cause them to implement change in their farming operation.
Author: Nicole Rhein
Major Program: Beef
According to the 2017 Ag Census, over 38,000 farms in Kentucky have beef cattle and over 64,000 head in the western counties of Caldwell, Calloway, Crittenden, Carlisle, Livingston, Lyon, and Marshall Counties. Cattle producers have experienced market volatility the past few years. The KY Department of Agriculture's Livestock and Grain Market Report shows 2019 prices below the five year average in many cattle categories. To address this volatility and showcase ways to improve profitability,
Author: Adam Barnes
Major Program: Beef
A cow calf success.According to the 2017 Ag Census, over 38,000 farms in Kentucky have beef cattle and over 64,000 head in the western counties of Caldwell, Calloway, Crittenden, Carlisle, Livingston, Lyon, and Marshall Counties. Cattle producers have experienced market volatility the past few years. The KY Department of Ag Livestock and Grain Market Report shows 2019 prices below the five year average in many cattle categories. To address this volatility and showcase ways to improve profitabili
Author: Clay Stamm
Major Program: Beef
During the Fall of 2019 I was contacted by Dr Darrah Bullock, a University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension Beef Specialist to host a extension style beef meeting, of course I committed to the offer as soon as I could because I know the quality of programing that the University beef specialist continuously put out. After settling on a date and time and talking with Dr Bullock further I realized that this wasn’t going to be traditional extension meeting. As a matter of fact, none of the sp
Author: Meagan Diss
Major Program: Beef
In western Kentucky, stockyards are few and far between for farmers in Union county. In order to expose our farmers to new and larger markets, the Union County Cattlemen’s Association sent five producers to visit Bluegrass Stockyards in Lexington, Kentucky. Jim Akers lead the group around the facility and explained how they are able to handle over 1,000 head during large sale days. We were also given a tour of the businesses and classrooms located inside the building which provided a new i
Author: Chelsey Anderson
Major Program: Beef
In Cumberland County, there are 10,702 head of cattle and calves according to the 2017 agriculture census. Those are housed on 395 total farms. In December of 2018, the Clinton-Cumberland Cattlemen’s Association hosted a University of Kentucky specialist, Steve Higgins, for an educational session. Mr. Higgins discussed hay feeding structures and options. After this meeting a CAIP sign-up took place in late 2019. On this program two producers installed fenceline feeder systems. One installe
Author: Clay Stamm
Major Program: Beef
My beef program is by far my strongest extension program in Clark County. Being one of the largest cow-calf producing counties in the state, Clark County farmers are always anxious to learn how to make their herds production exceed years past. This creates a perfect environment for successful extension programming and the Beef Night of Winter School 2020 proved to be just that!With the ongoing advertisements of many alternative meat options that are being adopted by numerous long standing fast-f
Author: Chuck Flowers
Major Program: Beef
According to the 2017 Ag Census, over 38,000 farms in Kentucky have beef cattle and over 64,000 head in the western counties of Caldwell, Calloway, Crittenden, Carlisle, Livingston, Lyon, and Marshall Counties. Cattle producers have experienced market volatility the past few years. The KY Department of Ag Livestock and Grain Market Report shows 2019 prices below the five year average in many cattle categories. To address this volatility and showcase ways to improve profitability, specialists fro
Author: Nick Roy
Major Program: Beef
In Adair County, the cooperation of the Adair County Cooperative Extension Service and other local agencies and groups makes lasting impacts on the community. No better example can be found than the 25 year relationship between the Adair County Cooperative Extension Service and Adair County Cattlemen’s Association.Since 1995, both organizations have worked hand in hand to improve the Adair County beef industry. Through education, marketing of cattle, administering cost-share programs
Author: Ted Johnson
Major Program: Beef
Beef producers in Lee County have reported or expressed concern with environmental issues such as mud over the past few years many control around feeding areas. They have reported loss of forages, loss of top soil, and safety being issues that they need to correct in their beef operations. We at the Lee County Extension office have worked with five beef producers in the past two years addressing these issues. We recommended and demonstrated the proper use of filter fabric to control erosion and
Author: Sarah Fannin
Major Program: Beef
Beef cattle operations are the economic backbone of agriculture in central Eastern Kentucky. In light of recent market changes, excessive wet weather conditions, and narrowing income margins, Breathitt, Elliott, Magoffin, Morgan and Wolfe ANR agents hosted the Master Cattlemen Program. The goal of the program was to increase the overall profitability of beef producers through intensive classroom training. Fifty farmers - including twenty-two females and five new farmers - completed 10 thr
Author: Heather Graham
Major Program: Beef
Beef cattle operations are the economic backbone of agriculture in central Eastern Kentucky. In light of recent market changes, excessive wet weather conditions, and narrowing income margins, Breathitt, Elliott, Magoffin, Morgan and Wolfe ANR agents hosted the Master Cattlemen Program. The goal of the program is to increase the overall profitability of beef producers through intensive classroom training. Fifty farmers - including twenty-two females and five new farmers - completed 10 thre
Author: Kendal Bowman
Major Program: Beef
Kentucky has the highest number of cattle east of the Mississippi River, but if you’ve ever been to Kentucky you know you’ll experience all four seasons in one month. With Kentucky’s unpredictable weather many cattle pastures end up destroyed from the mud. Kendal Bowman, Owen County’s Agriculture and Natural Resource Agent has been working with one of his producers on designing an economical high intensity backgrounding operation while avoiding the weather elements. Sever
Author: Rebecca Konopka
Major Program: Beef
According to the Beef Cattle National Research Council, there are at least 17 minerals considered essential for beef cattle. Cattle failing to receive some minimum level of these minerals in the diet may exhibit problems of health, productivity, or reproduction. Not all minerals are created the same, so the University of Kentucky has recommended mineral rations. The Carter County Agriculture & Natural Resource Agent takes bids from local farm stores to provide the UK Beef IRM mi
Author: Traci Johnson
Major Program: Beef
Educational programs that strengthen agriculture production skills are a continued priority identified by the Oldham County Extension Council and Agriculture Council. In Oldham County, pasture makes up one-third of available farmland and provides grazing for livestock. For cattle farmers, one of the greatest challenges is successfully managing pastures, especially winter feeding areas in pastures which are easily damaged by excessive rainfall and traffic. Excessive rainfall du
Author: Courtney Jenkins
Major Program: Beef
Beef cattle operations are the economic backbone of agriculture in central Eastern Kentucky. In light of recent market fluctuations, excessive wet weather conditions, and narrowing income margins, the Breathitt, Elliott, Magoffin, Morgan and Wolfe County ANR agents hosted the Master Cattlemen Program. The goal of the program is to increase the overall profitability of beef producers through intensive classroom training. Fifty farmers - including twenty-two females and five new farmers - complete
Author: Levi Berg
Major Program: Beef
Henry County, like many other former tobacco dependent counties, has had a renewed push towards beef production. According to the 2012 Census of Agriculture, Henry County has nearly $1,000,000 in beef animal sales yearly, so the Henry County Extension Office joined with the Oldham County Extension Office, Shelby County Extension Office, and Trimble County Extension Office to host the 2018 Regional Beef Field Day. The 2018 Regional Beef Field Day was held at Carlile Acres in Shelby County, KY, an
Author: John Fourqurean
Major Program: Beef
Paying attention to details helps to improve the profitability of any business. Dr. Kenneth Burdine, Dr. Greg Halich, and Jonathan Shepherd from the University of Kentucky College of Agriculture Food and Environment, Agricultural Economics Department developed a program titled Cow Calf Profitability. They worked with Extension Agents for Agriculture and Natural Resources across the state to deliver the program in five locations across the commonwealth. Program topics focused primarily on managem
Author: Robert Kirby
Major Program: Beef
Seeing a need for more education for cattle farmers in the tri-state region agents from Harlan, Bell and Knox Counties Kentucky Lee, Wise and Scott Counties Virginia and Claiborne and Hancock Counties Tennessee on February 1,2020 held the fifth annual Cumberland Gap Beed Cattle Conference.The goal was to address the needs and to update cattle farmers on new federal regulation changes as well as topics of body conditioning and scoring, minerals, disease prevention and management. Of those in
Author: Charles May
Major Program: Beef
In the mid 1990’s a group of ANR Agents from the old Quicksand Area and Northeast Area, along with Extension Forage Specialist Dr. David Ditch, pulled together three beef cattle Associations to form the Eastern Kentucky Beef Cattle Council. The mission of this Council was to improve the quality of life for limited-resource farmers in eastern Kentucky.This Council experimented with different group marketing systems, methods of improving livestock and forage quality through producer meetings
Author: Keith Center
Major Program: Beef
As a result of the tobacco buyout in 2004, many farmers in East KY transitioned to beef production, namely cow-calf operations, to continue earning income on their farms. County Extension Agents in Morgan, Magoffin, Elliott, and Wolfe counties realized in early 2017 that producers are still lacking the education and management skills they need to build better beef herds through quality heifer development.Proper heifer development is one of the key components to profitability in a beef cattle ope
Author: Daniel Carpenter
Major Program: Beef
Local cattlemen's association programs held this year included: Livestock risk protection and options, High Moisture Hay and Baleage, Mineral Requirements, Cattle Marketing Options, Feeding Distillers Syrup, Pre Conditioning and Backgrounding Calves. 85% said they attend local cattlemen's events to lean more about the cattle industry. 90% said that attending cattlemens meetings at the extension office have helped improve efficiency in their farming operations, and topics were
Author: Victor Williams
Major Program: Beef
On-farm studies provide an opportunity to build relationships with clientele while answering applied science questions. Beef specialist Dr. Lehmkuhler and Ben Crites contacted me about participating in a beef mineral study. An on-farm study involving eight counties, including Laurel County, teamed up Extension agents with producers to investigate cattle visitation to mineral feeders using the low-cost technology of game cameras. I worked with three different beef producers. Th
Author: Whitney Carman
Major Program: Beef
Genetic evaluation has largely been developed and determined by using seedstock bulls throughout the beef industry. However, producers are continually educated to utilize heterosis to increase the profitability and genetic merit of their progeny. As the increase in genomic testing and overall understanding of genetic merit has been promoted, the goal for this project is to help producers adopt a new tool to utilize when selecting traits using maternal parentage for their commercial herds. The Ex
Author: Matthew Futrell
Major Program: Beef
Management Details Improve Cow Calf ProfitabilityPaying attention to details helps to improve the profitability of any business. Dr. Kenneth Burdine, Dr. Greg Halich, and Jonathan Shepherd from the University of Kentucky College of Agriculture Food and Environment, Agricultural Economics Department developed a program titled Cow Calf Profitability. They worked with Extension Agents for Agriculture and Natural Resources across the state to deliver the program in five locations across the commonwe
Author: Clay Stamm
Major Program: Beef
Social Media platforms have been an underutilized tool by many Cooperative Extension Offices for some time now. Many offices have had social media pages for several years but because of the time restraints of the job, many have failed to keep these pages up to date with fresh, relevant content for the page’s followers. With the onset of the Corona-virus pandemic, many Extension workers were advised to work from home as much as possible to help avid the spread of the sickness. This order fo
Author: Nicole Rhein
Major Program: Beef
In February of 2020, beef producers from Marshall, Calloway, Graves and Livingston counties participated in a two-part Bull Value Assessment Program or "BVAP." This University of Kentucky Extension Program encourages producers to reevaluate how they make bull buying decisions. Navigating complicated sale catalogs and evaluating Expected Progeny Differences (EPDs) can be difficult and the auction itself can be very intimidating. The BVAP program provides a no risk, worry free environmen
Author: Ricky Arnett
Major Program: Beef
Agriculture seems to be a diminishing population but this year Green County grew in numbers. One young man and his family looked toward extension for support and help. This family had land but had very little experience in agriculture but at the same time realized how important agriculture is and wanted their kids to understand also. They approached me with a plan and a goal in mind but wanting guidance in pursuing this dream. Through educational programs and several one on one visits, Extension
Author: Jay Hettmansperger
Major Program: Beef
The beef cattle market prices have been fluctuating and declining during the Covid19 crisis making profits hard to come by. Garrard County beef producers have been using value added sales such as CPH-45 to increase their profits over just taking the cattle to traditional markets. The 6 producers that marketed through the CPH-45 sales in Richmond and Lexington Kentucky have reported an increase in prices of 10 to 20 cents per pound due to following the value added protocols used in th
Author: Jay Hettmansperger
Major Program: Beef
Purchasing the right bull to fit the producer's cows and to maximize the individual's marketing strategy is a decision that should take some thought and time. Several County agents and University specialist conducted a two night program on Bull Purchasing Decisions. Forty participants attended a 2 night program where they learn how to access their own cow herd and ultimate outcome they want to achieve. With the help of University specialist, they learned how to understa
Author: Nick Roy
Major Program: Beef
Adair County is the home of 18,800 beef cows (KY NASS) which contribute over $13 million to the local economy. (USDA Ag Census 2017). With a cow to bull ratio of 25:1 and a useful life of a bull averaging 4 years, Adair County beef farmers purchase nearly 200 bulls each year. 75% of the genetics of retained heifers can be traced to the bulls farmers have used in the past five years. Therefore the importance of bull selection goes far beyond just a few calf crops.In 2019,
Author: Clinton Hardy
Major Program: Beef
Beef cattle production is an important enterprise in the Daviess County agricultural economy. Cattle are grown by nearly 200 full time agricultural producers as well as individuals who utilize cattle production revenue as a supplement for off farm employment. Cattle and forages were historically low priorities regarding management of the breeding season and ensuring the highest quality forage nutrition available. Typical revenues on a per acre basis were low in comparison to grain an
Author: Colby Guffey
Major Program: Beef
A local beef producer contacted the Extension office with a request for assistance on renovating an old barn to work cattle. UK Extension bio-systems and Ag engineering specialist along with the local ANR agent made a farm visit to view the existing structure and take measurements. The producer explained their goals, and how they would like the cattle to flow through the system. The UK specialist put together some options for remodeling the old barn to get setup for cattle working. T
Author: Linda McClanahan
Major Program: Beef
In response to the need to get information out during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Mercer County ANR agent and Mercer County SNAP-NEP assistant teamed up to provide nutrition information through agriculture via the schools backpack program. Both had attended a training and received new curriculum resources through KY Agriculture & Environment in the classroom. They decided to promote National Beef Month (May) and National Dairy Month (June). The ANR agent recorded videos of accurat
Author: Stacy White
Major Program: Beef
The proper handling of beef cattle requires knowledge of cattle behavior and the presence of adequate handling facilities with sufficient fencing, watering, and feeding facilities to allow you to utilize recommended management procedures. Facilities on farms should be adequate to do the job and as economical as possible. They should last a long time and lead to better care of farms and animals. The Whitley County ANR agent worked with a beef producer to improve the cattle handling faciliti
Author: Jessica Barnes
Major Program: Beef
An on-farm mineral study was conducted in collaboration with the Beef IRM team and eight county extension agents and producers across the state. This mineral study was to look at how cattle behaved at a mineral feeder with both the lid on the feeder as well as with the lid removed. Trail cameras as well as site visits were utilized to determine how often the cattle visited the feeders as well as how they behaved while at the feeders. The portion of the study completed in Harrison Cou
Author: Jessica Barnes
Major Program: Beef
Beef Bash 2019 was held at the Oran C. Little Research Farm in Woodford County in the Fall of 2019 and 12 producers from Harrison County made the trip. There was a total of around 400- 450 participants at the event and several great speakers and vendors to learn from. Stations were setup around the farm to discuss different aspects of the beef industry and participants were free to chose the speakers they wanted to listen too in order to best benefit their operation. Producers from H
Author: Tyler Miller
Major Program: Beef
As I sit here reflecting back on the first 6 months of my career with Extension, it makes me realize how my background and experiances have prepaired me for this rapid change in my work enviroment. Just like on the farm, things can and will change in the blink of an eye. I have been there and done that and currently in the middle of a very fluid transition. I have learned to put my best foot forward and keep up the work. COVID-19 has been very hard on Extension programing. Even with restrictions
Author: Paul Sizemore
Major Program: Beef
Much of the Hay produced in the area is stored outside resulting in a great deal of waste, low nutrient levels and low digestibility. This can lead to many issues in the herd when the winter weather comes barreling in. To address the need for improved forage quality and to increase farmer understanding of the economics of hay production, many producers asked for more information on feeding systems. A workshop was held in Owsley County with Dr. Steve Higgins speaking on Fence Line Feeding systems
Author: Robert Smith
Major Program: Beef
Beef production continues to grow in our county and our educational outreach grows alongside. The 2017 Ag Census indicated that our numbers of beef cattle remain around 45,000, which is equal to our human population. In 2019-20 we continued some programs intended to help improve forages on the farm. I felt that knowing the forage quality on the farm is important enough that I began an on-farm sample effort. This involves me going to the farm, pulling the samples for the f
Author: Tad Campbell
Major Program: Beef
The weaning process for cattle is a stressful time for young calves. The stress can lead to other problems such as respiratory infections, depression, unease, and constant walking which leads to lower returns over costs associated with those problems. Mason County has held an on-farm demonstration for two years with implementation of fence-line weaning project. The Mason County Extension Service, UK Beef specialist team, and local producers have implanted the project to provide
Author: Lindie Huffman
Major Program: Beef
The average yearly expense of owning a herd bull is $722 per annum. Producers with managed breeding windows utilize the bull's services for only 2 months of the year, while they maintain his health and nutrition for the duration. Bulls come with not only economic costs, but also opportunity costs. To maintain only one herd bull limits genetic opportunity and also increases the risk of injury. In 2017, a member of the local Cattlemen's Association expressed interest in attending a school
Author: Joanna Coles
Major Program: Beef
In extension just being a resource for clients is an important part of what we do that adds value to our community. This spring a local trucking company contacted me about a load of spinach that was rejected due to lack of workers available to offload it when it arrived at the store. The company was going to receive an insurance payment for the loss but would have to dump it in the landfill if I couldn’t come up with a use for the 42,000 lbs. of spinach. I first contacte
Author: Lindsay Arthur
Major Program: Beef
The Beef Quality & Care Assurance (BQCA) Program’s mission is to maximize consumer confidence in and acceptance of beef by focusing the producer’s attention to daily production practices that influence the safety, wholesomeness and quality of beef and beef products through the use of science, research and education initiatives. BQCA is valuable because it:Shows commitment to food safety and qualitySafeguards public image of beef and dairy industryUpholds consumer confidence in va
Author: Gary Hamilton
Major Program: Beef
Forages and Beef Cattle are the staple crops of the Gateway Area farm economy. Over the past 10 years the ANR agents in Bath and Montgomery County’s have gathered producer input, planned and implemented Regional Agricultural Commodity Night Programs to focus on these and the current issues facing each. This year we included Menifee and 110 producers attended and gained knowledge from information presented by specialist from the University of Kentucky and others. Producer updates included P
Author: Brandon Sears
Major Program: Beef
With 38,000 cattle producers in Kentucky and nearly 70,000 head of beef cattle in Madison County, reproductive management and efficiency is economically important to our region. Opportunity for profit is dependent heavily on reproductive success of the Cow/Calf producer. Breeding bulls provide 50 percent of the genetics in any given herd and thus have a great impact on the type and kind of calves produced as well as influencing maternal qualities in heifers that will be kept for replacements in
Author: Brandon Sears
Major Program: Beef
Trace minerals are essential for many biological and metabolic processes in grazing beef cattle. However, research has shown large variations in individual intakes. The objective of this study was to examine the impact of mineral feeder design on visitations and intake of beef cattle on farms across Kentucky with feeder lids in place and removed. The Madison County ANR agent worked with Dr. Jeff Lehmkuhler, Extension Beef Cattle Nutritionist, to collect on-farm data at a Madison County beef prod
Author: Matthew Chadwick
Major Program: Beef
In February of 2020, beef producers from Marshall, Calloway, Graves and Livingston counties participated in a two-part Bull Value Assessment Program or "BVAP." This University of Kentucky Extension Program encourages producers to reevaluate how they make bull buying decisions. Navigating complicated sale catalogs and evaluating Expected Progeny Differences (EPDs) can be difficult and the auction itself can be very intimidating. The BVAP program provides a no risk, worry free environmen
Author: Adam Barnes
Major Program: Beef
In February of 2020, beef producers from Marshall, Calloway, Graves and Livingston counties participated in a two-part Bull Value Assessment Program or "BVAP." This University of Kentucky Extension Program encourages producers to reevaluate how they make bull buying decisions. Navigating complicated sale catalogs and evaluating Expected Progeny Differences (EPDs) can be difficult and the auction itself can be very intimidating. The BVAP program provides a no risk, worry free environmen
Author: Chuck Flowers
Major Program: Beef
Bull Assessment With 73 % of Carlisle County in Farms we decided to help beef producers with bull buying options. Buying the right bull can effect herd profitability. In order to improve beef herd management two meetings were held with Carlisle,Calloway, Marshall, and Livingston. The beef specialist discussed bull traits and balance need to pass on a good quality calf. In the second meeting producers were given bull statistics, a scenario of a cattle herd and they had to b
Author: Victor Williams
Major Program: Beef
Beef Quality Assurance TrainingThe growing general public’s discourse of livestock handling and beef quality was identified as a concern of the Laurel County Cattleman’s Association and the Laurel County Agricultural Advisory Council. The Laurel County Extension Service has offered the Beef Quality and Care Assurance (BQCA) Program in response to this concern. BQCA is a national training course developed by USDA and the beef industry. Through participation i
Author: Gregory Comer
Major Program: Beef
The cost of production, in all aspects of agriculture, continues to increase while prices remain stable or decrease. This situation requires beef producers to analyze each decision carefully to maximize profit margins. For beef cow/calf operations, the cost of replacement breeding stock often takes 9 years before a positive return on investment occurs. The need to cull typically coincides with the conclusion of
Author: Gregory Comer
Major Program: Beef
Genetic evaluation has largely been developed and determined by using seedstock bulls, throughout the beef industry. However, Extension continually educates producers to utilize heterosis to increase the profitability and genetic merit of their progeny. With an increase in genomic testing and overall understanding of genetic merit, the goal for this project is to help producers adopt a new tool to utilize when selecting traits usi
Author: Heather Graham
Major Program: Beef
In the spring of 2019, a Wolfe Co. High School student approached the ANR agent and indicated that he was interested in learning more about farming and raising cattle. The agent put him in contact with a local beef producer so that he could get some hands-on experience. The student would help on the farm with various tasks, including square baling hay and working cattle. He even has learned the proper way to give shots and how to put in ear tags. His interest in cattle grew and he began talking
Author: Tyler Miller
Major Program: Beef
Not long after I started with Extension back in January, the area meetings held between Lincoln, Boyle, Garrard, and Mercer Counties had kicked in full swing. As a new ag agent to the area I had the oppurtunity to see how these meetings where structured with a hands offs pressure off type of feeling. This was very benefical for me because the other more experianced agents filled me in on who the specalist were, what needed signed, and how we split the bill for the food. I was able to conccet wit
Author: Brian Jeffiers
Major Program: Beef
With outbreaks of coronavirus at commercial processing facilities, beef consumers and producers could find very few options for slaughter. When one Johnson County family was forced to book slaughter appointments beyond their planned dates, they sought the assistance of the Cooperative Extension Service to find an appropriate ration to maintain the appropriate weight for the eight animals until their harvest dates several months down the road. The CEA for ANR contacted the UK beef nutrition speci
Author: Matthew Adams
Major Program: Beef
With the recent downturn in cattle markets, many producers are left wondering what they can do to increase profit in the cow herd. With favorable and not so favorable markets alike, good marketing strategies always make a positive impact on net farm income. Hardin County has long had participation in the Tri County Steer Carcass Futurity program, which partners with Iowa State University to retain ownership on home raised feeder calves through the finishing phase, while collecting performance an
Author: Reed Graham
Major Program: Beef
Beef cattle operations are the economic backbone of agriculture in Eastern Kentucky. In light of recent market changes, excessive wet weather conditions, and narrowing income margins, Breathitt, Elliott, Magoffin, Morgan and Wolfe ANR agents hosted the Master Cattlemen Program. The goal of the program is to increase the overall profitability of beef producers through intensive classroom training. Fifty farmers - including twenty-two females and five new farmers - completed 10 three hour w
Author: Samantha Anderson
Major Program: Beef
In February of 2020, beef producers from Marshall, Calloway, Graves, McCracken and Livingston counties participated in a two-part Bull Value Assessment Program or "BVAP." This University of Kentucky Extension Program encourages producers to reevaluate how they make bull buying decisions. Navigating complicated sale catalogs and evaluating Expected Progeny Differences (EPDs) can be difficult and the auction itself can be very intimidating. The BVAP program provides a no risk, worry free
Author: Paul Andrew Rideout
Major Program: Beef
Master Cattlemen Pays Off According to the 2008 National Agriculture Statistics Service, Beef Cattle receipts for the Seven County Green River Area are $30,871,000.00 With the increased need of income to replace lost revenue from the tobacco buyout and the economy, farmers are looking to make beef cattle operations more efficient and profitable.With a cooperative effort amount the Green River Area counties and working with Natural Resources Conservation Service and local cattlemen ass
Author: Andy Mills
Major Program: Beef
History has demonstrated that recommended agriculture practices that are new and are a change from the norm do not happen at a high rate among adult producers. Therefore, educating our youth with this recommended research based practices carries over in to their farming operations when they become adults. Because of them this ANR agent collaborated with the two county ag teachers and a local beef producer to host a mini beef field day for high school student interested in animal science. Sixty-s
Author: Andy Mills
Major Program: Beef
With the cattle market so volatile, especially for the cow calf operators, producers are looking to diversify their operation. A few producers in the county are wanting to start stocker operations. This will allow them to background their feeder calves longer when the market is low. It will also allow them to buy other feed calves and try to add value to them while feeding them over a four to six month period. this ANR agent has made several farm visits to these operators bringing in University
Author: Gregory Comer
Major Program: Beef
According to the 2018 Kentucky Agriculture Statistics Service, Beef Cattle receipts for Kentucky totaled $750million in 2017. Enhancing management skills for beef producers is critical to the goal of improving profitability in beef enterprises. In a cooperative effort among the Green River Area counties and U.K. Extension Specialist, including assistance from the Natural Resources Conservation Service and local cattlemen as
Author: Benjamin Conner
Major Program: Beef
Farmers in Scott County continually need to evolve their practices to become more efficient in their operations. Beef cattle production is an icon in Scott County. According to the 2017 Agriculture Census, all cattle and calves on farm total 28,509 head. Eden Shale farm is a demonstration beef farm in Owenton, KY that is operated by the Kentucky Beef Network. It serves as a valuable tool to farmers in the state because new ideas and practices are implemented at the farm and then farmers can visi
Author: Benjamin Conner
Major Program: Beef
Beef cattle production is composed of several different part, one of which is animal husbandry. According to Meriam-Webster the definition of animal husbandry is, “a branch of agriculture concerned with the production and care of domestic animals.” To ensure that producers continue to improve their animal husbandry practices, the extension agent offered Beef Quality and Care Assurance (BQCA) training over four dates from January to March. Over those four dates a total of 26 Scott Cou
Author: Leann Martin
Major Program: Beef
In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, retail beef prices have increased by 18.7% from February 2020 when it first began to May 2020, according to reports from the USDA Economic Research Service published on June 10, 2020. As a result, consumers have become more aware of the direct to consumer beef market and are buying directly from beef producers. The annual Logan County 4-H & FFA Youth Market Steer/Heifer Show, Sale, and Carcass Contest, sponsored by the Logan County Cooperative Ext
Author: Kevin Laurent
Major Program: Beef
Post Weaning Value-Added Program – Precondition (PVAP-PRECONDITION)The Post Weaning Valued Added Program - Precondition (PVAP-PRECONDITION) began in 2019 through a grant from the Kentucky Agricultural Development Fund and is administered by the University of Kentucky and the Kentucky Beef Network. The objective of PVAP-PRECONDITION is to encourage cow-calf producers to retain ownership and capture added value from their investment in beef cattle genetics, facilities, and improved
Author: Kevin Laurent
Major Program: Beef
Post Weaning Value-Added Program – Feedlot (PVAP-FEEDLOT)The Post Weaning Valued Added Program - Feedlot (PVAP-FEEDLOT) began in 2019 through a grant from the Kentucky Agricultural Development Fund and is administered by the University of Kentucky and the Kentucky Beef Network. The objective of PVAP-FEEDLOT is to encourage cow-calf producers to retain ownership and capture added value from their investment in beef cattle genetics, facilities, and improved management through
Author: Douglas Shepherd
Major Program: Beef
Continued statewide interest by producers and county extension agents in participating in the beef retained ownership program conducted in cooperation with Iowa State University and Tri-County Steer Carcass Futurity Coop. Received requests from agents/producers in western KY and eastern KY to share our experiences with producers there who were interested in exploring this cattle marketing option. Agent took two past, long-time consignors to meet with producers at Daviess County and M
Author: Douglas Shepherd
Major Program: Beef
Two new programs held for beef producers, one also involving the Livestock Events Center as well as office meeting space. Three day AI School held in conjunction with Accelerated Genetics and local stockyards that provided demonstration animals. Fifteen producers from three counties participated.UK Beef IRM team's Bull Value Assessment Program held here in January and February. This very well received program involved producers from several surrounding counties. Pos
Author: Patrick Hardesty
Major Program: Beef
With approximately 12,000 beef cows, beef cattle income ranks second in the county. To improve profits and sustainability, beef educational meetings were conducted in cooperation with the Taylor County Cattlemen’s Association. These included Artificial Insemination and Sexed Semen; Fall Seeding Alternatives; Fall Feeding Strategies; Minerals, Protein Tubs and Ytex Fly Tags; and Animal Disease Traceability.To promote the beef industry in Taylor County, the Association also cooked at several
Author: Carol Hinton
Major Program: Beef
Post Weaning Value-Added Program – Precondition (PVAP-PRECONDITION) The Post Weaning Valued Added Program - Precondition (PVAP-PRECONDITION) began in 2019 through a grant from the Kentucky Agricultural Development Fund and is administered by the University of Kentucky and the Kentucky Beef Network. The objective of PVAP-PRECONDITION is to encourage cow-calf producers to re
Author: Leslie Anderson
Major Program: Beef
A video docuseries was developed to illustrate management decisions for new landowners/beef cattle farmers. The series was entitled "I Bought a Farm....Now What" has 20 episodes and has been viewed more than 2500 times in just two months.
Author: Leslie Anderson
Major Program: Beef
Two webinars on beef cattle reproductive efficiency were conducted as a part of our webinar series entitled "Reaching Out While Locked In". These two webinars have engaged more than 5,200 users on Facebook and more than 350 views on YouTube.
Author: Leslie Anderson
Major Program: Beef
Funding was received by the UK Beef IRM Team to develop a new web/app interface to improve the communication between Extension educators and beef cattle producers in Kentucky. This app will allow County Extension Offices to modernly communicate with Extension groups within the county. This app also allows cattlemen within a county or region to seamlessly interact. Access to a beef production record-keeping system will also be available for users. The goal is to beta-test the app in January 2021.
Author: Leslie Anderson
Major Program: Beef
Reproductive success governs production efficiency in beef cow-calf operations. The University of Kentucky Beef Integrated Reproductive Management (Beef IRM) team developed a multi-disciplinary program to help cattlemen adopt production practices that favor high reproductive rates in their cow herds. The educational model of this program combines traditional classroom with an extensive hands-on, learn-by-doing methodology. UK Extension employs this model as an effort to increase behavior modific
Author: Kevin Bullock
Major Program: Beef
When the Extension offices were shut down due to the COVID19 pandemic, the beef Extension group decided to host a webinar series for beef cattle producers and agents. Initially five webinars were scheduled for every Tuesday in April and the first Tuesday of May. Topics included Bull Selection, Reproductive Management, Value Added Marketing, Management Technologies and Nutrition Advancements. These were initially available on Zoom with a live audience and all sessions were recorded and uploaded t
Author: Kevin Bullock
Major Program: Beef
Due to the success of the initial ROWLI program and the fact that Extension offices are continuing to be shut down due to the COVID19 pandemic, the beef Extension group decided to expand the ROWLI webinar series for beef cattle producers and agents. An additional three webinars were scheduled for the remaining Tuesdays in May. Topics included Reclaiming Heavy Use Areas (forages), Update on the Current Market Environment and Timely Topics on Beef Health. These were available on Zoom and FaceBook
Author: Jeffrey Lehmkuhler
Major Program: Beef
The Beef IRM team continues to strive to keep county Agriculture & Natural Resource agents current on beef management knowledge to better serve their clientele. During the past year, Zoom was utilized to provide online training for agents on beef-related topics. These updates were provided in the fall and spring during the months of September-December and April-June. During the fall, a total of seven updates were provided. The total number of participants for these se
Author: Kevin Bullock
Major Program: Beef
Even with some lessening of restrictions on meeting the beef Extension group decided to continue ROWLI program through the summer with an added twist. We decided to feature one of the beef researchers with an Extension specialists to provide an update on current research at the University of Kentucky and provide some education on how that information can be applied on the farm. Seven webinars were scheduled to accomplish this goal. Topics included an update on the states of the Animal and Food S
Author: Jeffrey Lehmkuhler
Major Program: Beef
A full 2-day educational program targeted to producers, county agents and feed dealers in the southeast. The goal was to provide an educational program for those involved in this specialized segment of the beef industry to learn more about management, feeding and preventative health of feeder cattle managed in backgrounding operations. The program combined hands-on and classroom educational approaches. Funding was received to support the program from KADF KBN as well as industry support. &
Author: Jeffrey Lehmkuhler
Major Program: Beef
The Kentucky Beef Efficiency was again a major draw having between 300-350 beef producers, county agents and industry representatives in attendance. The goal of the program is to provide those involved in the beef industry and opportunity to improve their knowledge of beef cattle management and factors that impact their management decisions to enhance production efficiency. The program was held in Owensboro, KY prior to the start of the annual Kentucky Cattlemen’s Association
Author: Jeffrey Lehmkuhler
Major Program: Beef
The southeast is home to many beef cattle stocker and backgrounding enterprises. There are few educational programs developed for this segment of the beef industry and the Mid-South Stocker Conference has established itself as a great program for more than a decade. The program is a multi-state effort involving Kentucky and Tennessee Extension, Cattlemen’s Associations and industry representatives. This year’s conference was hosted by the Warren County Extension ag
Author: Katherine VanValin
Major Program: Beef
Kentucky cattle production has increase over the past ten years. Producers are looking for ways to market their beef to insure a steady income and maximize profits The Beef Specialist at the Western Kentucky Research Facility worked with the Christian County direct to consumer beef business through partnerships with local butcher shops. The development of their direct to consumer beef enterprisebrought about several challenges to the operation. One of the main challenges was th
Author: Katherine VanValin
Major Program: Beef
In response to the shutdown resulting from the spread of COVID-19, the team of Beef extension specialists and faculty developed a series of weekly agent updates and trainings using the Zoom video conferencing platform. On April 23rd, 2020 the topic that was presented was “Alternatives to distillers’ grains in beef cattle diets”. Distillery by-products are a common staple in beef cattle diets and are used to supply protein. These by-products are produced as part of the beverage
Author: Sarah Fannin
Major Program: Beef
Beef production remains the backbone of the agricultural economy in Morgan County. Given the volatile nature of the cattle market, beef operations need to be fortified with as many tools as possible to thwart unexpected changes. Unknowingly keeping an open cow in a herd can drain up to $1,600 in feed costs plus the loss of a calf crop. One of the biggest tools producers can use to improve their bottom lines is to pregnancy check the herd – skipping this step has been prov
