Extension
It Starts With Us
Author: Keenan Bishop
Major Program: Beef
A new (young) Franklin County Cattlemen's Board member was interested in creating a Face Book page for the local association. He wanted a way to share information such as meetings and educational opportunities as well as a way for members to post if cows were out, lost or found or broken down while hauling cattle etc. Very few of the board members were on social media (1) and therefore couldn't help or advise.The Franklin County ANR agent and he got together to create a prototype for a t
Author: Philip Konopka
Major Program: Beef
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic and in person meeting being canceled we were looking for a way to get programs to the people in the counties. The Leiws ANR worked with the Carter County Agriculture & Natural Resources Agent has created several “Around the Farm” videos to assist farmers and homeowners with their farming operation as well as their gardens and landscapes, and the Mason County Horticulture Agent to create “Plant Professional” videos to assist w
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: Keith Center
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 three hour
Author: Ricky Arnett
Major Program: Beef
Green County is the home of 20,200 beef cows (KY NASS) which contribute over $13.5 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, Green 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: David Coffey
Major Program: Beef
In 2017, the Jackson County Agriculture agent worked with local producers with an Interactive Farm Management program. Producers set goals and evaluated their own operations’ efficiency and management. Since then, several producers have continued to work with extension and evaluate their operation. One farm in particular has improved management and farming practices tremendously. In 2017, the farm consisted of 40 head of straight angus cattle that fed hay 120 days a year, continuous grazed
Author: Ted Johnson
Major Program: Beef
Proper forage utilization and management is one of the major factors that livestock producers can control to improve the profitability of any livestock operation. Lee County has around 2,500 acres of forages that is managed for feed for livestock. Forage quality has been identified, by leader as the number one concern that needs to be addressed to improve livestock profitability in Lee County.Lee County extension agent has worked around 21 livestock producers on improving their forages. These 21
Author: Steven Musen
Major Program: Beef
While the Jessamine County Extension Office has had to limit in-persons meetings due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the U.K. Beef Extension group has hosted a weekly webinar series for beef cattle producers and agents. Topics have included Bull Selection, Reproductive Management, Value Added Marketing, Management Technologies, Nutrition Advancements, Risk Management, Winter Feeding, Beef Structures and Cattle Handling Facilities. These have been live streamed on Zoom and Facebook and all sessions wer
Author: Chris Ammerman
Major Program: Beef
Cattle farmers in Grant County cattle farms have experienced a downward trend to prices received for their products at market. The worldwide pandemic this year created a more dismal outlook as consumer dining perspectives have changed and processing plant delays have created an unbalanced situation of supply and demand at the grocery stores.Many Grant County cattle farmer have looked toward an effort to further decrease their costs of feeding cattle outside of the growing season. Cat
Author: Daniel Allen
Major Program: Beef
According to the APHIS Veterinary Service and Michigan State University research, four percent of beef cows will lose a calf due to difficult births. Beef operators in Kenton County have expressed their concerns about calf loss consistent with environmental and difficult births. While best management practices like vaccine protocols and nutrition contribute to healthy calves, beef producers should be aware of the actual birth process to ensure delivery of healthy calves. The K
Author: Benjamin Conner
Major Program: Beef
Central Kentucky is known for producing good, quality, beef cattle. The Bourbon County Livestock Improvement Association Elite Heifer Sale was started in 1991 to help smaller producers come together to market their cattle. These cattle would be bred heifers that are due to calve in the spring. They set standards for all cattle to meet to qualify for the sale and ensure the cattle are pregnant up to 60 days following the sale. I was assigned to help this group of producers from central Kentucky p
Author: Beau Neal
Major Program: Beef
Beef cattle production is still an important component of the Fayette County agricultural economy. Both cow/calf and stocker/backgrounder operations are having to evolve and improve management practices every year to remain active financially. Many new technologies and production practices have came onto the scene in the last few years, and this winter beef cattle program covered those particular topics. Genomic testing, MGAs for Estrous synchronization, and BVD-PI testing in c
Author: Shane Bogle
Major Program: Beef
As the impact of Covid-19 was being felt worldwide, Extension agents were hard at work meeting the ever changing needs of clientele during a very trying time. As businesses closed their doors and producer meetings were canceled, agriculture agents were given the gift of time. This was utilized in Caldwell County to personally reach clientele in ways busy schedules had not allowed for in some time. Over the last four decades across Kentucky, CPH-45 (Certified Preconditioned for Health) calf sales
Author: Linda McClanahan
Major Program: Beef
In order to prepare producers to be efficient and profitable, Central Kentucky County Extension Agents for Agriculture & Natural Resources have collaborated with Beef and Agricultural Economic Extension Specialists to present the Kentucky Beef Conference annually for over 20 years. The assistance of long time business community sponsors has allowed producers to hear from nationally known experts in cattle marketing. COVID-19 restrictions forced the team to re-evaluate how to continue pr
Author: Jessica Barnes
Major Program: Beef
In order to prepare producers to be efficient and profitable, Central Kentucky County Extension Agents for Agriculture & Natural Resources have collaborated with Beef and Agricultural Economic Extension Specialists to present the Kentucky Beef Conference annually for over 20 years. The assistance of long time business community sponsors has allowed producers to hear from nationally known experts in cattle marketing. COVID-19 restrictions forced the team to re-evaluate how to continue pr
Author: Benjamin Conner
Major Program: Beef
In order to prepare producers to be efficient and profitable, Central Kentucky County Extension Agents for Agriculture & Natural Resources have collaborated with Beef and Agricultural Economic Extension Specialists to present the Kentucky Beef Conference annually for over 20 years. The assistance of long time business community sponsors has allowed producers to hear from nationally known experts in cattle marketing. COVID-19 restrictions forced the team to re-evaluate how to continue pr
Author: Roger "Darrell" Simpson
Major Program: Beef
Production agriculture and those that support it did not stop because of the Covid pandemic throughout 2020 and early 2021.The University of Kentucky College of Agriculture Food and Environment Extension Beef Group developed a webinar series titled Reaching Out While Locked In or (ROWLI). Extension Specialists hosted hour long programs oftentimes every Tuesday evening regarding beef cattle production and management from early spring 2020 through early summer 2020 via Zoom. Although i
Author: John Fourqurean
Major Program: Beef
For many years, Kentucky has promoted its CPH-45 (Certified Pre-conditioned for Health) program to producers as a way to add value to their feeder calves. Many studies have shown considerable increases in producers’ income resulting from weight gain during the pre-conditioning period and possible price premiums at the time of sale. The McLean County ANR agent promotes participation in 2 nearby sales: the Owensboro CPH sale and the Guthrie CPH sale. Working in conjunction with the KY Beef N
Author: Evan Tate
Major Program: Beef
Cull Cow Marketing ProgramEach year cattle producers look to find more diverse and rewarding marketing avenues in order to generate additional revenue due to declining magins in the cow/calf sector. Most of the focus is put on adding value to feeder calves. With this, value in the cull cow is often overlooked and significant incomes are not captured.The Hancock County Cooperative Extension Service partnered with the Kentucky Cattleman’s Association and the Hancock County Cattleman&r
Author: Evan Tate
Major Program: Beef
Breeding Soundness Exam Success StoryEach year cattleman incur signifanct losses in the cow/calf enterprise due to reproductive failures. The most common reason for this failure is unviable bulls servicing cows. Producers should have Breeding Soundness Exams (BSE) completed on each bull twice per year. Often times this practice is forgotten or not completed due to lack of facilities capable of handling large bulls.In an effort to increase Farm Income, The Hancock County Cooperative
Author: Clay Stamm
Major Program: Beef
In order to prepare producers to be efficient and profitable, Central Kentucky County Extension Agents for Agriculture & Natural Resources have collaborated with Beef and Agricultural Economic Extension Specialists to present the Kentucky Beef Conference annually for over 20 years. Many avenues of scheduling, advertising, and networking must take place for this to be a success. The assistance of long-time business community sponsors has allowed producers to hear from nationally known experts
Author: Beau Neal
Major Program: Beef
In order to prepare producers to be efficient and profitable, Central Kentucky County Extension Agents for Agriculture & Natural Resources have collaborated with Beef and Agricultural Economic Extension Specialists to present the Kentucky Beef Conference annually for over 20 years. The assistance of long time business community sponsors has allowed producers to hear from nationally known experts in cattle marketing. COVID-19 restrictions forced the team to re-evaluate how to continue pr
Author: Kendal Bowman
Major Program: Beef
As this world has revolved this past year so has the methods we present and digest information. Traditionally Extension has taught in person field days. At these field days clients would all gather around the presenter and try to listen and retain what they were saying. For many producers this was a time for them to catch up with other producers. The social aspect has its perks, butt many times the ones that came to learn couldn’t see or hear from over the “spectators”. As the
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: Samuel Cofield
Major Program: Beef
A typical Trigg County Cattle producer like most in the state, may or may not have a breeding season and generally a few times a year we sort off larger calves, hopefully the market is kind to us but in general there may not be alot of planning that goes into when and how to market calves. We know that weaning calves on the farm is better from a calf management standpoint and getting them on a good vaccination program will set them up for success later in life. The reality is even kn
Author: Trent Adkins
Major Program: Beef
With the way that 2020 went the Pulaski County Cattlemen's felt that it was important to try and keep things as normal as possible. Each year the Cattlemen's Association along with other community groups put on the annual Pulaski county field day. With that being said there was no way to have that meeting this year like we normally would. So the board of directors came up with a different way to try and reach out. They held the annual meeting at the local drive-in. This gave us the
Author: T. Adam Probst
Major Program: Beef
In order to prepare producers to be efficient and profitable, Central Kentucky County Extension Agents for Agriculture & Natural Resources have collaborated with Beef and Agricultural Economic Extension Specialists to present the Kentucky Beef Conference annually for over 20 years. The assistance of long time business community sponsors has allowed producers to hear from nationally known experts in cattle marketing. COVID-19 restrictions forced the team to re-evaluate how to continue pr
Author: Jason Phillips
Major Program: Beef
The Covid-19 pandemic has presented challenges to many people. It has changed the way we live and work. One of the challenges that has developed for Extension Agents is how do we continue to deliver quality educational programs to our clientele during this health crisis? Most traditional face-to-face program delivery methods are not currently an option.An alternate method is electronic delivery of programs. Because most of our traditional field days were canceled due to Covid, agents collaborate
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. CPH-45 cattle are graded and grouped according to size and weight. This allows buyers to purchase large trailer load lots and are willing to pay higher prices for those groups. The 6 producers that have trad
Author: Jay Hettmansperger
Major Program: Beef
In order to prepare producers to be efficient and profitable, Central Kentucky County Extension Agents for Agriculture & Natural Resources have collaborated with Beef and Agricultural Economic Extension Specialists to present the Kentucky Beef Conference annually for over 20 years. The assistance of long time business community sponsors has allowed producers to hear from nationally known experts in cattle marketing. COVID-19 restrictions forced the team to re-evaluate how to continue pr
Author: Jerry Little
Major Program: Beef
In order to prepare producers to be efficient and profitable, Central Kentucky county Extension Agents for Agriculture and Natural Resources have collaborated with Beef and AgriculturalEconomic Specialists to present the Kentucky Beef Conference annually for over 20 years. The assistance of long time agricultural business sponsors has allowed producers to hear fromnationally known experts in cattle marketing.Covid-19 restrictions forced the team to re-evaluate how to continue providing timely ma
Author: Jerry Little
Major Program: Beef
A producer approached the Agriculture and Natural Resource agent wanting to learn how to A.I. replacement heifers in his herd which consists of 150 cows. Due to Covid-19 cancelling allthe commercially available A.I. schools in 2020 this producer wasn't able to attend one to learn how to use A.I.on the farm. The agent contacted the beef reproductive specialist and we worked with the producer on getting a small group of heifers synchronized and set a date for timed A.I. to be done on the farm.
Author: Jerry Little
Major Program: Beef
The local distillery is looking to expand their bourbon operation and as a result they will need to get rid of several thousand gallons of stillage by product per day. At certain times of the year the distillery doesn't have an issue getting rid of the by product but other times of the year it can be a problem. The distillery only has one days worth of storage so the by product needs to be moved.The distillery contacted the Agriculture and Natural Resources agent and in turn he contacted an
Author: Clay Stamm
Major Program: Beef
“Winter School” is a program that has a lot of history here in Clark County. Original designed over 30 years ago as a weeklong series of classes for local agriculturalist to attend annually, Winter School has adapted during this time to keep up with clientele’s lifestyle changes. Amid the Corona-Virus pandemic in the winter of 2021 it was time again for the Clark County Winter School program to adapt to the times and continue as a staple for the county’s agriculture commu
Author: Alex Butler
Major Program: Beef
IRM Beef Program FinalizationThe 2017 USDA Census reports Anderson County has 380 Cow-calf operations with 15,880 head and 340 Beef Cattle Operations with 8,263 head. The Anderson County Extension agent, in collaboration with University Specialists in the Animal Science Department, provided clientele with access to the Kentucky Beef IRM program. The Kentucky Beef IRM programming allowed producers to incorporate synchronization protocol and artificial insemination for beef cattle opera
Author: Samantha Saunders
Major Program: Beef
In fall 2020, COVID-19 still had many restrictions, but this did not stop the Buffalo Trace agents from hosting the Farm School for Women program. We offered the program virtually through Zoom for four sessions and had 28 women signed up and participated. We wanted to provide an exciting program, but this is not an easy task as many programs are offered virtually. We based the sessions on 2019's survey that asked what type of workshops participants would like to see for 2020. The first
Author: Evan Tate
Major Program: Beef
The Beef Cattle Industry in Kentucky is dynamic and multifaceted. Individual producer’s enterprises differ greatly from one to another with end goals being just as diverse. Kentucky has long been labeled a cow calf state and still maintains the largest cow population east of the Mississippi River. Management of the cattle and the forages they consume along with an influx of technology makes for an ever changing industry with endless learning opportunities.The Green River Area Extension Agr
Author: John Fourqurean
Major Program: Beef
The Beef Cattle Industry in Kentucky is dynamic and multifaceted. Individual producer’s enterprises differ greatly from one to another with end goals being just as diverse. Kentucky has long been labeled a cow calf state and still maintains the largest cow population east of the Mississippi River. Management of the cattle and the forages they consume along with an influx of technology makes for an ever changing industry with endless learning opportunities. The Green River Area Extensi
Author: Reed Graham
Major Program: Beef
Profitability in a small cow/calf operation can be very difficult. According to a recent fact sheet from the University of Kentucky Ag Economics department the estimated gross return per cow in 2021 is $168 and that doesn’t include Depreciation or Interest on Equipment/Facilities, Land, or Labor. Smaller producers with under 50 cows would have a hard time making a living off beef cattle at that projection.With the help and guidance of Breathitt County ANR Agent Reed Graham one producer sou
Author: Don Sorrell
Major Program: Beef
During the fall of 2020 a state wide Beef Forum was help to identify issues and opportunities for focused Extension Beef programs. Alan Ahrman and Chad Bezold were the two beef cattle producers who represented Campbell County during this forum. They brought before this group of over 125 KY beef producers the idea (as did other farmers) of a state wide master finisher/freezer beef program. This idea was discussed during at the Campbell County Cattle Association program planning Zoom m
Author: Christan Miracle
Major Program: Beef
The cattle industry plays a large role in the Agriculture industry of Marion County. Most farmers are associated with cattle in some way shape or form. According to the 2017 U.S. Agriculture Census Marion County ranks 9th in the state for cattle numbers. The county attribute over 24.5 million dollars worth of revenue from cattle/calf sales. As of Dec. 31, 2017 the county had 47,720 head of cattle/calves in inventory.The Marion County Cattlemen Association currently has over 240 members. The Mari
Author: Michelle Simon
Major Program: Beef
In March of 2020 the covid 19 pandemic caused major market disruptions halting production in the meat packing plants which led to food shortages and empty grocery store shelves. This drove consumers to purchase meats and produce locally and even purchase freezers to store food. This increase in demand for local meats provided a window of opportunity for beef producers to capture a higher profit by finishing beef and selling it as a locally grown product. Due to the numerous challenges facing pro
Author: Sarah Fannin
Major Program: Beef
Beef and forage production remains the backbone of the agricultural economy in Morgan County. One of the biggest factors in a successful cow/calf operation is having a healthy, productive bull. In conjunction with a local veterinary practice, Bull Soundness Exams and program were offered by the ANR Extension program at a greatly reduced price. Ten producers who had never used BSE’s in the past, took advantage of the program. Of the 10 bulls tested, 2 failed.
Author: Alex Butler
Major Program: Beef
Oxbow Livestock Processing FacilityThe USDA FSIS Meat, Poultry, and Egg Product Directory reports, there are 22 USDA Inspected Facilities for processing beef in Kentucky. Additionally, there are estimated to be more than 10 USDA Custom Exempt processors around the state. Being as there are so few beef processors in the state, the Anderson County Extension Agent, Anderson County Ag Development Board, University Extension Specialists, Kentucky Center for Agriculture and Rural Development, Gov
Author: Victor Williams
Major Program: Beef
After the loss of income from tobacco sales in our area, many Laurel County farmers shifted their focus to beef production. As beef farming operations continue to grow, so does the need for training opportunities to help producers increase their revenues while decreasing operating expenses. The Laurel County Cooperative Extension Service and the Laurel County Cattlemen’s Association identified a need for training opportunities in which local producers could learn the latest adv
Author: Victor Williams
Major Program: Beef
Though beef cattle raised in Laurel County are of the highest quality, opportunities for marketing beef herds can be costly. The time and expense of transporting the animals to sale facilities can cause a substantial decrease in profits. In an ongoing effort to highlight the quality of animals available in Laurel County and offer a local sale opportunity, the Laurel County Cooperative Extension Service and the Laurel County Cattlemen’s Association conducted the eighth annual Op
Author: Tyler Miller
Major Program: Beef
On April 8, 2021 i held an educational meeting that would cover for the ones receiving cost share money. The Cattleman's Association, Farm Bureau, and Southern States all helped to fund the meeting. that night about 300 people showed up at the Stanford Drive In to be receive their BQCA certification. We were able to feed everyone, have guest speakers, and show the presentation on the big screen. for days after, people were calling to let me know how much fun they had and that they had enjoye
Author: Vicki Shadrick
Major Program: Beef
The Beef Cattle Industry in Kentucky is dynamic and multifaceted. Individual producer’s enterprises differ greatly from one to another with end goals being just as diverse. Kentucky has long been labeled a cow calf state and still maintains the largest cow population east of the Mississippi River. Management of the cattle and the forages they consume along with an influx of technology makes for an ever changing industry with endless learning opportunities. The Green River Area Extensi
Author: Lindsay Arthur
Major Program: Beef
The Bourbon County Livestock Improvement Association Elite Heifer Sale was started in 1991 to help smaller producers come together to market their cattle. These cattle would be bred heifers that are due to calve in the spring. They set standards for all cattle to meet to qualify for the sale and ensure the cattle are pregnant up to 60 days following the sale. The recent vacancy of the Bourbon County Agriculture and Natural Resources Agent called for a team of surrounding county agents to jump in
Author: Benjamin Conner
Major Program: Beef
Improving genetics in the cow herd is a goal that many farmers have in order to produce a better product. One way to do that is to utilize artificial insemination in your herd. Artificial insemination allows farmers to access genetics from bulls across the country and world because of the ability to freeze and ship semen collect form said bulls. In the past farmers have been limited on their genetics based on the bulls they were able to purchase and use on the farm. Artificial insemination
Author: Jessica Barnes
Major Program: Beef
Harrison County has been getting an influx of individuals moving in from non-farm backgrounds, purchasing small to moderate size farms and are needing assistance with learning the ropes of farming and what would be best suited for their new land purchase. Many of the individuals are coming into their new endeavor with little to no equipment to utilize for their beginning operation. The Harrison County Beef Cattle Association and the Harrison County Extension Office have partnered together to hav
Author: Gregory Comer
Major Program: Beef
The Beef Cattle Industry in Kentucky is dynamic and multifaceted. Individual producer’s enterprises differ greatly in size and scope, with individual farm goals being just as diverse. Kentucky has long been labeled a cow calf state and still maintains the largest cow population east of the Mississippi River. Management of the cattle and the forages they consume along with an influx of technology makes for an ever changing industry with endless learning opp
Author: Jeffrey Lehmkuhler
Major Program: Beef
The COVID-19 pandemic halted all face-to-face extension activities in Kentucky at the end of March 2020. Kentucky’s Extension continues to focus on grassroots efforts conducting on-farm visits and hosting face-to-face educational sessions with beef cattle producers at the county level. The pandemic ceased all these efforts limiting Extension’s ability to reach beef cattle producers. Agents used Facebook, paper media such as newsletters, and other media to reach prod
Author: Douglas Shepherd
Major Program: Beef
The Pasture-to-Plate, beef retained ownership program conducted with Iowa State's Tri-County Steer Carcass Futurity Coop had another productive year in spite of the pandemic. Loads were shipped in August and February involving 130 head, from 19 operations, seven of which were first time participants. Had our first producer to send calves from Garrard County, as a result of hearing about the program during the UK Beef IRM Summit. The program was discussed during the Summit a
Author: Daniel Allen
Major Program: Beef
According to USDA economists, during the pandemic, increases in meat prices were mostly the result of declining meat supply following the closures of some meatpacking plants. USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service estimated that beef production in April 2020 was 20 percent lower than in April 2019. These shortages forced consumers to purchase meats and produce locally. According the USA News, consumers purchased 50% to 100% more freezers over pre-pandemic year so they can st
Author: Christopher Schalk
Major Program: Beef
Barren County is known as a cattle county. Barren County leads KY in both beef and dairy production. The producers in Barren County range from full time farmers to part time farmers to folks new to farming due to retirement and returning to the family farm. This is the case with Mr. Dennis. Mr. Dennis reached out to the Barren County Ag Agent to help him get a small commercial beef operation up and running after he returned to the family farm. Mr. Dennis returned to
Author: Jason Phillips
Major Program: Beef
COVID-19, social distancing and additional restrictions presented many challenges in providing Extension programs for our local stakeholders. However, with challenges come opportunities to create, new and innovative methods for presenting information. Clientele expressed the desire for beef programs but were no longer able to attend local Cattlemen’s Association meetings or University of Kentucky beef meetings.Therefore, the Simpson and Butler County Extension Agents for Agricu
Author: Matthew Futrell
Major Program: Beef
The Covid 19 pandemic brought to light the fragile nature of the United States food supply. The meat processing and packing industry was one area that was specifically affected due to reduced processing capacity that resulted in limited meat supplies on the supermarket shelves. A local client contacted this agent in the summer of 2020 regarding assistance in starting a meat processing plant. This agent worked with the client on all aspects of this venture. A tour of the UK meats lab and a meetin
Author: Brandon Sears
Major Program: Beef
Madison County is currently the third largest beef cow/calf producing county in the state of KY with approximately 25,500. head. It is well known that proper management of reproduction in cattle contributes to increased productivity and profitability on the farm. Since early 2015 the UK Beef Integrated Reproductive Management (IRM) team and Madison County ANR agent have worked with a local Madison County beef producer to increase reproductive efficiency in their herd.UK Extension Beef Specialist
Author: David Appelman
Major Program: Beef
With the plans to host the annual meeting of the KY Agricultural County Agents Association virtually this year, the decision was made to record the farm tours. Four of the tours were selected from the Buffalo Trace counties with all the agents working together with producers to come up with a variety of topics to be shared across the state. We received assistance from Mr. Jeff Franklin to help with the recording and editing of the videos. The topics included Reproductive Succes
Author: Evan Tate
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: Robert Smith
Major Program: Beef
In a collaboration between the Nelson County ANR/Horticulture Agent, Robbie Smith, and 4-H Agent, Nicole Howard, a new program was created to give senior 4-H members an opportunity to gain hands-on experience with the cattle industry. Through this new program, members received their Beef Quality Care and Assurance Certification. Through their passing of the quizzes required by the certification, completing this certification shows that the members gained knowledge about cattle handling, vaccinat
Author: Gregory Comer
Major Program: Beef
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 using maternal parentage for their commercial herds. Agricultural Extension Agents Evan Tate from Hancock County, Greg Comer from Ohio County, and Whitney Carman from Grayson County worked with Beef Extension Specialists on this project. In 2020, we enrolled 240 young commercial cows and
Author: Colby Guffey
Major Program: Beef
Beef cattle production in Clinton County remains a vital part of the Ag economy. In the fall of 2020 a local beef cattle producer identified a need for producers to learn proper palpation techniques to identify open cows in the herd. In recent years a growing number of cattle producers have implemented blood pregnancy testing of cattle to determine stage of gestation, while this is a valuable tool for producers it requires a couple of extra days to know the status of pregnancy.  
Author: Colby Guffey
Major Program: Beef
As a result of the Cattle pregnancy checking school held in November 2020, an Artificial Insemination (AI) School was held in March 2021. Producers that attended the pregnancy school in the fall of 2020 indicated the need for an AI school to be held locally. The Clinton County ANR Agent partnered with the local stockyards and an independent instructor to host an AI school for cattle producers. Participating producers were taught cow reproductive anatomy and physiology, hormone
Author: Colby Guffey
Major Program: Beef
During the 2020 pandemic it became increasingly difficult to host meetings with the social distancing guidelines in place. The Clinton/Cumberland Cattleman’s Association held a virtual meeting with producers attending the meeting via zoom from their own home locations. UK Extension Specialist Dr. Kenny Burdine was the guest speaker also attending via zoom. Participants were able to engage in learning about current cattle market trends and projections during the pandemic from t
Author: Colby Guffey
Major Program: Beef
The Twin Lakes Cattle Association partnered with Clinton County Extension Service ANR Agent and UK Extension Beef Specialist Kevin Laurent to host a beef heifer development field day. The field day location was Springhaven Farms a local cow/calf operation that has been transitioning to more bred heifer development in recent years. Springhaven farms have been offering bred heifers in the West KY Bred Heifer sale the past couple of years. UK Beef Extension Specialist Kevin Lauren
Author: Chadwick Conway
Major Program: Beef
The Eastern Kentucky Integrated Reproduction Management Program was designed by the University of Kentucky Beef Extension Specialist Program to improve beef production in Eastern Kentucky. Knott County has had five different cow/calf farmers participate in the program through the past five years. After these years in the program, all the farm operations now have a controlled calving season. Also, the new opportunities and the concepts they acquired from the program have enabled them to increase
Author: Ricky Arnett
Major Program: Beef
In Green County, the cooperation of the Green County Cooperative Extension Service and other local agencies and groups makes lasting impacts on our community. No better example can be found than the 20+ year relationship between the Green County Cooperative Extension Service and the Green County Cattlemen’s Association.Since 2000, both organizations have worked hand in hand to improve the Green County beef industry. Through education, marketing of cattle, administering cost-share pro
Author: Beau Neal
Major Program: Beef
Trip was planned for the Fayette County Cattleman's Association to tour cattle operations in Florida. Twelve participants flew to Sarasota, FL or two days. The first stop was University of Florida Beef and Forage Research Farm in Ona, FL. We also toured BlackBeard Ranch and Daken Dairy. These diversified operations allowed our producers to see different perspectives on cattle farming and learn new management techniques that may be well suited for Kentucky producers as well.
Author: Jeffrey Lehmkuhler
Major Program: Beef
Specialists Involved: Jeff Lehmkuhler, Michelle Arnold, Kevin Laurent, Kenny Burdine, Steve Higgins, Katie VanValin The Weaning 101 Workshop help in collaboration with KBN at the Eden Shale farm has been successful in engaging participants in both classroom and hands-on learning styles. However, the COVID-19 pandemic shut down all face-to-face meetings for 2020 and part of 2021. Knowing that producers still needed learning opportu
Author: Jeffrey Lehmkuhler
Major Program: Beef
Specialists Involved: Jimmy Henning, Chris Teutsch, Jeff Lehmkuhler, Bob Coleman and Ken Adries (Kentucky State University). The Eastern Kentucky Hay Contest (EKHC) is a cooperative effort between the county agents in Eastern and Southeastern Kentucky and local cattlemen’s associations and the University of Kentucky faculty specialists in animal science, plant and soil science and also specialists from Kentucky State University. The contest began 26 years ago and involved three counti
Author: Jeffrey Lehmkuhler
Major Program: Beef
Specialists w/ major involvement:Jeff Lehmkuhler, Les Anderson, Darrh Bullock, Katie VanValin, Kevin Laurent, Jimmy Henning During the last week of July of 2020, beef cattle producers, the University of Kentucky Beef Integrated Resource Management (IRM) team along with Cooperative Extension agents and industry representatives participated in an online program to identify and prioritize issues to focus on in the near future to continue to maintain the state’s beef industry competitiven
Author: David Embrey
Major Program: Beef
Small beef operations throughout Kentucky have always been challenged to be profitable on a consistent basis. Most take what they can get by selling only at livestock auctions. The takes little effort on the producers part, but generally does not lead to good profits. For the past three to four years, several members of the Edmonson County Cattlemen's Association have been exploring entering new markets for their beef cattle. During the recent pandemic grocery shortages, this exploration tur
Author: Linda McClanahan
Major Program: Beef
The Mercer County Cattlemen's Association teamed up with the Mercer County Ag Agent and NEP assistant to celebrate National Beef Month. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, some traditional activities could not take place. So an alternate plan was created with special activities to promote beef. A social media campaign was held on the MCCA Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/MercerCattlemensAssociation, where people entered to win a cooler bag filled with grilling supplies and recipes.#MCCABeef
Author: Katherine VanValin
Major Program: Beef
The Beef Minutes Video Series originated during the COVID-19 pandemic as a means to continue engaging with beef producers and expand the presence of beef extension on social media websites and YouTube. This series includes videos from 5 extension faculty in the CAFE and is coordinated by Dr. Katie VanValin. The videos are designed to be short, yet informational videos addressing timely topics related to beef cattle production, and events or meetings that feature beef extension faculty. The video
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: Katherine VanValin
Major Program: Beef
In 2020, due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the Beef Bash Field day was held virtually. The virtual field day was coordinated and hosted by Drs. Katie VanValin, Darrh Bullock, and Mr. Kevin Laurent. The program included presentations from 11 CAFE extension faculty and specialists, and 2 CAFE research faculty. Traditionally, Beef Bash is a largely attended in-person field day that rotates between being hosted at the University of Kentucky Research and Education Center, and the C. Oran Little R
Author: Katherine VanValin
Major Program: Beef
Specialists w/ major involvement:Jeff Lehmkuhler, Les Anderson, Darrh Bullock, Katie VanValin, Kevin Laurent, Jimmy Henning During the last week of July of 2020, beef cattle producers, the University of Kentucky Beef Integrated Resource Management (IRM) team along with Cooperative Extension agents and industry representatives participated in an online program to identify and prioritize issues to focus on in the near future to continue to maintain the state’s beef industry competitiven
Author: Kevin Bullock
Major Program: Beef
In the spring of 2020, the governor ordered a statewide lockdown due to the COVID-19 pandemic which effectively closed Extension offices and in-person programming. The beef Extension group, consisting of Les Anderson, Darrh Bullock, Kevin Laurent, Jeff Lehmkuhler and Katie VanValin, initiated a weekly webinar series for Kentucky’s beef farmers that we called “Reaching Out While Locked In”. Our initial effort was to provide five weeks of programming to get us through the pandemi
Author: Kevin Bullock
Major Program: Beef
The University of Kentucky provided the leadership to successfully revise and publish the National Beef Cattle Evaluation Consortium Sire Selection Manual. Dennis Duross in Agricultural Communications provided the editorial support and Darrh Bullock coordinated the chapter revisions and wrote/co-wrote three chapters. This manual is a valuable resource for Kentucky’s beef farmers, and beef producers nationally. We utilize the manual as the reference materials of UK’s Master Cattlemen
Author: Tracie Goodman
Major Program: Beef
In 2020, the McCreary County Extension office, in conjunction with the McCreary County Farm Bureau office, ran a county agricultural investment program for resident agricultural producers. During this year, McCreary County received more phase-1 funds than in the past, which opened up the program to many more applicants. Twenty of our area ag producers received a total of $20,000 in cost-share funds which they used to construct hay sheds, purchase equipment such as squeeze shoots, improve fencing
Author: Matthew Chadwick
Major Program: Beef
The Calloway County Cattlemen's association had dissolved many years ago and joined in with a regional group, over the years of that partnership the members from Calloway County have dwindled significantly. Over the last two years a group of 6 local farmers have worked to reestablish the individual county level association and have had great success. I have worked with them during their reestablishment to form a partnership with extension. Through that new partnership we have seen a 10 fold
Author: Katherine VanValin
Major Program: Beef
In the spring of 2020, the governor ordered a statewide lockdown due to the COVID-19 pandemic which effectively closed Extension offices and in-person programming. The beef Extension group, consisting of Les Anderson, Darrh Bullock, Kevin Laurent, Jeff Lehmkuhler and Katie VanValin, initiated a weekly webinar series for Kentucky’s beef farmers that we called “Reaching Out While Locked In”. Our initial effort was to provide five weeks of programming to get us through the pandemi
Author: Katherine VanValin
Major Program: Beef
The Weaning 101 Workshop help in collaboration with KBN at the Eden Shale farm has been successful in engaging participants in both classroom and hands-on learning styles. However, the COVID-19 pandemic shut down all face-to-face meetings for 2020 and part of 2021. Knowing that producers still needed learning opportunities for CAIP educational requirements and were getting accustomed to online educational programs, the Weaning 101 Workshop was made to be an on-de
Author: Kevin Laurent
Major Program: Beef
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 management through diversified marketing strategies. This program is aimed at Kent
Author: Kevin Laurent
Major Program: Beef
Developed the "Grading Feeder Cattle" segment.Specialists Involved: Jeff Lehmkuhler, Michelle Arnold, Kevin Laurent, Kenny Burdine, Steve Higgins, Katie VanValinThe Weaning 101 Workshop help in collaboration with KBN at the Eden Shale farm has been successful in engaging participants in both classroom and hands-on learning styles. However, the COVID-19 pandemic shut down all face-to-face meetings for 2020 and part of 2021. Knowing that producers still needed learning opport
Author: Kevin Laurent
Major Program: Beef
Breakout session group leaderSpecialists w/ major involvement:Jeff Lehmkuhler, Les Anderson, Darrh Bullock, Katie VanValin, Kevin Laurent, Jimmy Henning During the last week of July of 2020, beef cattle producers, the University of Kentucky Beef Integrated Resource Management (IRM) team along with Cooperative Extension agents and industry representatives participated in an online program to identify and prioritize issues to focus on in the near future to continue to maintain the state&rsquo
Author: Kevin Laurent
Major Program: Beef
Procurement and marketing factors of bred heifers.During the COVID Pandemic, the UK Beef IRM Team created an education video series designed to engage new beef producers. This video series effort was coordinated by Dr. Les Anderson and involved 10 Extension faculty in the CAFE. Thirty-two videos were created discussing all topics commonly faced by new landowners who are trying to decide if they will become beef cattle producers. The first several videos discussed a variety of topics including wh
Author: Kevin Laurent
Major Program: Beef
Reaching Out While Locked In Beef Webinar Series - Presenter of "Marketing Basics" and "Preparing for Winter Feeding" segmentsIn the spring of 2020, the governor ordered a statewide lockdown due to the COVID-19 pandemic which effectively closed Extension offices and in-person programming. The beef Extension group, consisting of Les Anderson, Darrh Bullock, Kevin Laurent, Jeff Lehmkuhler and Katie VanValin, initiated a weekly webinar series for Kentucky’s beef farmers th
Author: Kevin Laurent
Major Program: Beef
Virtual Beef Bash - Presenter of PVAP Program UpdateIn 2020, due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the Beef Bash Field day was held virtually. The virtual field day was coordinated and hosted by Drs. Katie VanValin, Darrh Bullock, and Mr. Kevin Laurent. The program included presentations from 11 CAFE extension faculty and specialists, and 2 CAFE research faculty. Traditionally, Beef Bash is a largely attended in-person field day that rotates between being hosted at the University of Kentucky Res
Author: Kendal Bowman
Major Program: Beef
I spy with my bovine eye Summer brings the warm weather and sunshine. But for many producers across Kentucky, especially Owen County it brings the plague of pinkeye in cattle. In May the Owen County Extension Office partnered with United Producers Inc UPI) of Owenton to begin a brunch and learn series. The Owen County Ag Agent, Kendal Bowman, partnered with the UPI yard manager, Robert Green Jr., to address some timely monthly topics to educate local producers. In May to kick off the monthl
