Extension
It Starts With Us
Author: Daniel Allen
Major Program: Beef
Beef producers put a lot of effort into raising, breeding, and feeding cattle. These producers must also have a strategy for selling these cattle. For those producers who do not have a clear direction and goals for marketing their cattle there may be lost income opportunities. Local cattlemen indicated that they wish to have a program aimed at developing and maintaining a marketing plan. The Kenton County Extension office offered a Beef Marketing class in early September. Worki
Author: Kendal Bowman
Major Program: Beef
Cattle play a vital role in shaping the agricultural scene across America, serving as a source of food and livelihood for many. Kentucky stands proudly among the top 10 states in the country for cattle production. Recently, a farmer, seeking ways to minimize feed costs and maximize profits, approached the Owen County Agriculture and Natural Resource Agent for guidance.In response to this inquiry, the county agent collaborated with an Extension Beef Specialist to analyze the farmer's existing
Author: David Coffey
Major Program: Beef
The Wilderness Trail Area ANR agents met in the spring of 2023 to begin planning a series of chute side beef programs. These programs were designed with the intentions to allow producers to stand along side agents at the working chute. Live demonstrations of beef quality care and assurance practices, reproduction procedures, weighing cattle, freeze branding and general management practices would be conducted chute side. The agent team discussed the fact that many
Author: Garrard Coffey
Major Program: Beef
The Wilderness Trail Area ANR agents met in the spring of 2023 to begin planning a series of chute side beef programs. These programs were designed with the intentions to allow producers to stand along side agents at the working chute. Live demonstrations of beef quality care and assurance practices, reproduction procedures, weighing cattle, freeze branding and general management practices would be conducted chute side. The agent team discussed the fact that many t
Author: Tyler Miller
Major Program: Beef
Each year in October, Lincoln County has their annual Beef Expo. This marks my second Beef Expo that I have been apart of since acting as their ANR Extension Agent. As we had planned for several months all came together one evening in October for a great night of friends, fellowship, Learning, and of course Beef. This event is held at the fairgrounds due to the size of the crowd that attends. There were 20 plus sponsors there that night that set up a booth for the trade show. Participants got to
Author: Victor Williams
Major Program: Beef
The Wilderness Trail Area ANR agents met in the spring of 2023 to begin planning a series of chute side beef programs. These programs were designed with the intentions to allow producers to stand alongside agents at the working chute. Live demonstrations of beef quality care and assurance practices, reproduction procedures, weighing cattle, freeze branding and general management practices would be conducted chute side. The agent team discussed the fact that many times these pra
Author: Keenan Bishop
Major Program: Beef
Beef producers need BQCA certification not just to meet certain cost-share and program requirements but also to know how to be good stockmen and properly handle their cattle. While many have been trained and certified, there are still those that are new producers or otherwise haven't yet for various reasons.The Franklin and Henry County ANR agents teamed up with KSU to offer a chute-side hands-on training, primarily targeting KSU's audience of small, limited resource producers.KSU's
Author: Gary Stockton
Major Program: Beef
Beef cattle producers deal with parasite infestations in cattle that can cause the herd to be unhealthy and not producing to their potential. Many producers in Boone County use the same dewormer each time they deworm cattle.An educational program was planned and conducted to aid cattle producers in learning properly when to deworm, how to deworm, and the importance of switching up dewormers to efficiently control parasites in their herds.Cattle producers agreed that controlling parasites is an i
Author: William Adkins
Major Program: Beef
The Wilderness Trail Area ANR agents met in the spring of 2023 to begin planning a series of chute side beef programs. These programs were designed with the intentions to allow producers to stand along side agents at the working chute. Live demonstrations of beef quality care and assurance practices, reproduction procedures, weighing cattle, freeze branding and general management practices would be conducted chute side. The agent team discussed
Author: Stacy White
Major Program: Beef
The Wilderness Trail Area ANR agents met in the spring of 2023 to plan a series of chute side beef programs. These programs were designed with the intention of allow producers to stand alongside agents at the working chute. Live demonstrations of beef quality care and assurance practices, reproduction procedures, cattle weighing, freeze branding and general management practices would be conducted chute side. The agent team discussed the fact that many times these
Author: Corinne Belton
Major Program: Beef
Educating local beef producers is a high priority in Shelby County. According to the 2017 Census of Agriculture, Shelby County ranks 18th in Kentucky for sales of cattle/calves with more than $15 million in annual sales, 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 mi
Author: Megan Wetenkamp
Major Program: Beef
Beef production is one of Henry County's largest commodities at almost $11 million in sales of cattle and calves and over 27,000 in cattle inventory. Many of the farmers who once relied heavily on dairy and tobacco as their main income transitioned to beef in the late 90s and early 2000s. Extension programming has matched that transition. Through a partnership between Extension Agents and Cattlemen’s Associations in Henry, Oldham, Shelby, and Trimble Counties, the Regional Beef Field D
Author: Jason Phillips
Major Program: Beef
Simpson County Beef producers expressed a desire to see the University of Kentucky Meat Science Lab and to tour the Eden Shale Farm in Owenton, KY. The meats lab tour provided insight that was beneficial for all beef producers and especially helpful to those that produce direct-to-consumer beef products. The Eden Shale Farm featured many practices from the University of Kentucky and Kentucky Beef network that are extremely practical for producers to utilize on their own farm. A
Author: Charles May
Major Program: Beef
In 2015 a new concept in beef cattle production was introduced by the University of Kentucky Extension IRM Team. It was called the Integrated Reproductive Management Program. This program is a multidisciplinary program that assists producers by educating them on making changes or improvements in their individual operations to ultimately increase farm profitability. These practices include having a defined calving season, herd health program and a sound nutritional program.&nb
Author: Traci Johnson
Major Program: Beef
Educating local beef producers is a high priority in Oldham County. According to the 2017 Census of Agriculture, cattle ranked 3rd in Oldham County for market value of products sold, representing over 2.6 million dollars. Several Oldham County farmers are processing beef to sell locally, capitalizing on demand from Louisville and surrounding suburbs. Additionally, there are several seedstock beef operations in Oldham County. All these factors emphasize the need for beef producer
Author: Michelle Simon
Major Program: Beef
Campbell County ANR Agent collaborated with the Northern Kentucky area ANR agents to offer a Regional Beef Field Day at Eden Shale Farm. This field day offered opportunities to learn about footing options for holding pens, handling facilities, watering options, fall nutrition and how to develop and select replacement heifers. Campbell County farms are not growing in size unfortunately, so farmers must be innovative to improve production in every aspect of the farm while being cost-effective. Man
Author: Jessica James
Major Program: Beef
The Henderson County Cattlemen's Association has been inactive for a few years and I decided to try and get Cattlemen's meetings going again. This is a great way for beef producers to get together and talk about what practices they may have implemented on their farm. They can discuss things that have worked for them and things that may have not. This is also a great opportunity to have specialists come and speak at the meetings because then they can ask the specialists any questions they
Author: Jessica James
Major Program: Beef
I partnered with Union and Webster County to have a Beef Field Day in Henderson County. This was at Kevin Martin's farm. Specialists came and discussed topics such as backgrounding, body condition, drone spraying, hay nutrition value and a KBN discussion. We had a great turnout for this field day. We had around 70 people show up. We had various counties there including Daviess, McLean, Henderson, Webster and Union. The goal was to have a field day with information on different timely topics
Author: Nick Roy
Major Program: Beef
The Adair County Cooperative Extension Service provides educational programs, research, demonstrations, and services to help farmer improve beef production. According to USDA, Over 500 farmers care for 37,500 head of cattle in Adair County.The Basic Beef program cooperates with local farmers to implement practices in reproduction, genetic improvements, and forage management. Research conducted on local farms measuring improvements in soil fertility by unrolling hay during winter-feedi
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 a workshop was held in Owsley County with Dr. Steve Higgins speaking on Fence Line Feeding systems. Dr. Higgins reported his findings on the practices that were
Author: Timothy Estes
Major Program: Beef
Cattle prices are currently near historic highs. Even with those high prices it is as important as ever to make wise decisions that affect your bottom line. A decision that is not as often thought about as intensive as it should be is heifer selection. To bring awareness to this the Hart County Ag and Natural Resource agent held a Heifer selection class on November 8, 2023. Fourteen producers attended the session representing over 300 head of cattle. UK Extension Be
Author: Maggie Forsee
Major Program: Beef
The problemSince COVID, there have been a major spike in beef producers wanting to finish and sell their beef to the public. For Carroll County specifically there have been producers that have been wanting to expand their operation as well. The educational program responseIn response to this issue, I have worked with Dr. VanValin, Dr. Rentfrow, and Trackside Butcher shoppe to put together a three part series. The first program of the series is management of finishing cattle, the second is f
Author: Keenan Bishop
Major Program: Beef
For several years the Franklin County Cattlemen's Association Board had expressed a desire to create a Junior Chapter. Not only to retain youth in the production of cattle and advocates of beef consumption but as future leaders of their organization.The Secretary took the initiative to found the Jr. Association and enlisted 3 more advisors. After recruiting over 30 interested founding members and hosting several educationally fun events the advisors focused on monthly education opportunities
Author: Gary Hamilton
Major Program: Beef
The Montgomery County Cattlemen’s Association is a very active commodity group that is supported by the Extension Service. They sponsor a tour every year for their members to see and learn what others are doing. In July of 2023, 21 of its over 200 members conducted a very enjoyable and educational tour entitled "Virginia Farm and History Tour". On this tour they visited the Bill McDonald Beef Cattle Farm in Blacksburg, VA.; The Virginia Tech Research Farm; the Historical Smithfie
Author: Christopher Schalk
Major Program: Beef
The problemGenomic and the use of genomicly enhanced EPDs is quickly becoming new and vital tool for beef farmers. Seedstock producers must embrace this new technology and adopt it in order to stay competitive in the market. Commercial producers can use the selection criteria in order to more rapidly advance their goals. The educational program responseTwo programs were held in order to provide 2 different segments of the beef industry the detailed information they needs. &nbs
Author: Regina Utz
Major Program: Beef
Field days serve to educate cattlemen regarding important production principles while demonstrating practices in a practical, on-farm setting. With this in mind, Agriculture Extension agents in Oldham, Trimble, Henry and Shelby Counties have organized and held an annual Regional Beef Field Day for farmers since 2005. These field days offer producers an opportunity to see how production practices are implemented on local farms. Field days also promote adoption of new practices that improve produc
Author: Nicole Rhein
Major Program: Beef
To ensure the success of their farming enterprises, beef cattle producers must often adapt and/or modernize. To help the farmers of Marshall County successfully improve their operations, the Marshall County Extension service is participating in the "Back to Basics" program. The program is designed by the University of Kentucky Extension Beef Science team with the goal of helping farmers "go back to the basics" and rethink how they manage their operations. Once enrolled, the v
Author: Ted Johnson
Major Program: Beef
The problemI have had an increase of calls and questions regarding beef cattle health issues, the common factor has been farmers not following a strict vaccination protocol for their beef herd.The educational program responseThe Lee County Extension Service along with the University of Kentucky Extension Veterinarian developed and conducted program to educated beef producers on the fundamentals of herd health and vaccination protocols. over 25 beef producers participated.The participants/t
Author: Linda McClanahan
Major Program: Beef
UK Extension Specialists have worked to acquire grant dollars for a multi-state research program to evaluate the current effectiveness of dewormers and deworming practices on beef cattle operations. The ANR agent collaborated with specialists on this project. The ANR agent identified and collected samples from 3 demonstration farms in Spring 2023 and 3 in Fall/Winter 2023. There was some overlap in demonstration farms so in total there were 4 separate farms from Mercer County participating in th
Author: Samuel Cofield
Major Program: Beef
CPH-45The tag line on the CPH-45 website states: “The Kentucky Certified Pre-Conditioned for Health (CPH-45) program was created with the support of Kentucky's 38,000 beef producers generating a proven track record. This premium program has increased the quality and value of Kentucky beef cattle ensuring that CPH-45 calves can be bought with confidence.” No doubt the CPH program has improved KY cattle and it’s helped our backgrounders and feedlots but it’s impac
Author: Tyler Miller
Major Program: Beef
Its was a perfect setup, with proper execution and a packed house the excitement was at an all time high. This may sound like you might be attending a Rupp Area basketball game watching Reed Shepard work magic. Instead, it was another flat out awesome extension meeting at the Lincoln County location. People poured in the building for the Cow/Calf meeting that is held each February. I planned a great night of information along with a wonderful beef ribeye meal. Attendees got to listen to an anima
Author: Victor Williams
Major Program: Beef
With the recent closure of the stockyards in Laurel County, area producers have been faced with limited options for selling their animals. Many have been transporting livestock to markets in other areas, which is a costly option due to fuel prices and loss of weight of the animals due to the stress of the transport. In 2002, Extension agents in the eight county Wilderness Trail Area worked together to construct the WTA Marketing Alliance, which provided producers a location to group, sort,
Author: Adam Thomas
Major Program: Beef
The problemThe evolution of expected progeny differences and genomics has many producers searching for resources to help relate them to their commercial cow herds. As required by KADF guidelines bulls purchased through the CAIP are required to have genomically enhanced epds to qualify for cost share reimbursements. The question by most is why does this matter to my commercial cattle operation. The educational program responseLaRue County hosted a program that related the use of
Author: Evan Tate
Major Program: Beef
Each year Kentucky Cattle Producers strive to further their cowherd genetics. The Kentucky Cost- share program and other university programs have allowed producers the financial help to adopt new practices. Artificial Insemination is a practice that is now readily available for producers to utilize.The Hancock County Cooperative Extension Service provides guidance and assistance to beef producers each year to conduct artificial insemination programs on their farm. This hands on progr
Author: John Fourqurean
Major Program: Beef
The KY-TN Cowman’s Kind Bull sale was held March 16th, 2024. The McLean County Ag Agent, the Christian County Ag Agent, KY-TN Livestock Market and a UK Beef Specialist spear headed an effort to provide smaller purebred beef producers with an opportunity to sell their animals in a larger sale than just selling private treaty off the farm. These bulls had to meet certain qualifications: vaccinated for IBR, PI3, BVD, BRSV, vibriosis and Leptospirosis: dewormed with 90 days of sale: tested neg
Author: Matthew Futrell
Major Program: Beef
The KY-TN Cowman’s Kind Bull sale was held March 16th, 2024. The McLean County Ag Agent, the Christian County Ag Agent, KY-TN Livestock Market and a UK Beef Specialist spear headed an effort to provide smaller purebred beef producers with an opportunity to sell their animals in a larger sale than just selling private treaty off the farm. These bulls had to meet certain qualifications: vaccinated for IBR, PI3, BVD, BRSV, vibriosis and Leptospirosis: dewormed with 90 days of sale: tested neg
Author: Maggie Forsee
Major Program: Beef
The problemSince COVID, there has been a major spike in beef producers wanting to finish and sell their beef to the public. For Carroll County specifically there have been producers that have been wanting to expand their operation as well.The educational program responseIn response to this issue, I have worked with Dr. VanValin, Dr. Rentfrow, and Trackside Butcher shoppe to put together a three-part series. The first program of the series is management of finishing cattle, the second is feeding
Author: Colby Guffey
Major Program: Beef
The problemNew cow/calf producers looking for educational opportunities to enhance their operations. The educational program responseFour county master cattleman educational series. The participants/target audienceBeef cow/calf producers Other partners (if applicable)UK Extension specialistsProgram impact or participant response.Producers attending the educational sessions gained knowledge to help decrease costs associated with cow/calf production, as well as ways to help market t
Author: Shelby Cleaver
Major Program: Beef
Starting the beginning of March 2024 Nicholas County, Harrison County and Bourbon County held a Master Cattlemen program. These sessions covered a wide variety of information and knowledge to be passed down to the local and surrounding producers. Each county held 2 sessions each with 6 sessions in total lasting 3hours so that each participant would become a “Certified Master Cattlemen.” During these session participants learned about reproduction/record keeping, marketing/profitabili
Author: Chelsea Sapp
Major Program: Beef
Junior Cattlemen Begins The problemMarion County Cattlemen Association is the third largest association in the state. There has been a long standing tradition of cattlemen and cattlewomen that attend monthly me
Author: Gary Stockton
Major Program: Beef
Cattle production constitutes a pivotal component of Boone County's local economy, commanding considerable attention and investment. Yet, the landscape of cattle production is continually evolving, driven by ongoing advancements in research, genetics, and equipment. This dynamic environment poses a significant challenge for cattle producers, who must navigate a plethora of disparate information sources.Recognizing this need for comprehensive support, the Boone County Extension Service's
Author: Brian Jeffiers
Major Program: Beef
For part-time farmers, dead livestock are often disposed of with no further investigation. Many report that they assume the cost of transporting the animal for necropsy would be prohibitive, and that they do not think they can determine a cause with their own knowledge. To help farmers identify the causes of death loss, the Cooperative Extension Service brought UK's Extension Veterinarian to a cattle producers' meeting to discuss how to utilize the diagnostic lab and what background info
Author: Sarah Fannin
Major Program: Beef
Beef and forage production remains the backbone of the agricultural economy in Morgan County. Supply chain issues and inputs costs for both enterprises have increased drastically. There are more challenges hindering the retention of family farms. From seed and fertilizer selection to machinery repair and feed purchases, all tools are needed to make the best economic choices for the farm.More farmers are using decision making tools offered by Ag Extension including soil testing, hay t
Author: Robert Smith
Major Program: Beef
Based on the 2022 National Agriculture census Nelson County farms have and estimated 35,000 head of cattle in various production settings. Many obstacles exist to the profitability of our cattle farms such as input cost, loss of livestock, breeding inefficiency, parasites etc. Parasites within the animals can contribute to poor gains, lack of rebreeding, and lethargy. Our farmers have a plethora of tools in their arsenal to combat intestinal parasites on the farm, however
Author: Beau Neal
Major Program: Beef
The cattle market has been on a very bullish run in the past year, and cattle prices are at record highs. While it has improved optimism, producers have also becoming cautious and anxious about what decisions to make moving forward in what could be a volatile market. 36 cattle producers from Woodford County attended a program discussing just this topic on March 28th. Dr. Kenny Burdine covered the current market, what it is projected to do, and management decisions that could ben
Author: Megan Wetenkamp
Major Program: Beef
Henry County’s largest commodity is beef at almost $11 million is sales and over 27,000 in cattle inventory. That is more head of cattle than the population in the county. Historically, the county was comprised of tobacco, dairy, and cow calf producers. Since the buyout and milk consolidation, farms transitioned to primarily cow calf. More recently there has been more interest in feeding calves. Some of that transition can be attributed to alternative feeds, like stillage, becoming availab
Author: Steven Mobley
Major Program: Beef
The Wilderness Trail Area ANR agents met in the spring of 2023 to begin planning a series of chute side beef programs. These programs were designed with the intentions to allow producers to stand along side agents at the working chute. Live demonstrations of beef quality care and assurance practices, reproduction procedures, weighing cattle, freeze branding and general management practices would be conducted chute side. The agent team discussed the fact that many
Author: Daniel Allen
Major Program: Beef
The pressures of sustainability, high in put costs and reviewing practices of small cow calf operations, can help farmers be more efficient and profitable. Kenton County ANR agent paired a local small beef operation with UK Beef IRM specialist team to be part of a local demonstration farm. The participating farm worked with specialists in all areas of their farm. Special emphasis included forage production, grazing plan, water development for their largest pasture, genetics, an
Author: Lyndall Harned
Major Program: Beef
The ag agents in Boyd, Carter, Greenup and Lawrence Counties offered the Master Cattleman’s Program this spring for the first time in several years. And the response was overwhelming. We had over 60 individual’s sign-up and pay the registration fee, with almost 40 of them being from Boyd County. This is well over 25 more total than I have ever had in a MCP that I have been associated with in the past, and I have been a part of 8 previous offerings. &
Author: Nick Roy
Major Program: Beef
In Adair County, Beef and Dairy cattle generates just over $50 million dollars in revenue according to the 2022 Ag Census. Adoption of BQCA practices help to ensure consumers receive and quality and wholesome product. Furthermore, the National Premise ID program can help trace livestock in the event of a emergency and can aid in protecting farmer's livestock and investments.During the month of April 2024, the Adair County Cooperative Extension Service focused efforts on BQCA certificat
Author: Daniel Carpenter
Major Program: Beef
According to the 2022 Ag Census there are over 26,000 head of cattle in Hardin County, and the market value of those cattle was over 11 million dollars. Over the past year, the Agriculture and Natural Resource Agent for Hardin County reached beef producers via programs, newsletters, farm visits and personal communications. Programs included topics on marketing, utilizing drone technology, fall weed control, cost-share opportunities, Cattle Confinement Conference, and Beef Quality Care & Assu
Author: David Coffey
Major Program: Beef
Implementing Breeding Soundness Exams (BSE) on a small cattle producers’ farm is a large hurdle for East Kentucky producers. With a shortage of large animal veterinarians, it is a large expense as well as difficult to find time for the Vet to make a farm call. As Extension Agents, we wanted to share the importance of having annual exams conducted on breeding age bulls as a protection against open cow herds. To help combat this concern, and bring better management to the forefront, we hoste
Author: Jeffrey Lehmkuhler
Major Program: Beef
County agriculture agent, Megan McCoun organized an Applied Master Cattleman Nutrition course with beef cattle specialist, Dr. Jeff Lehmkuhler which was held at the Henry County Extension office on January 24, 2024. There were 12 participants that registered for the program and 11 completed the post-program evaluation. Topics covered included items such as how to interpret a forage quality test, estimating hay intake, reading mineral tags, and other nutrition-related topics. U
Author: Dee Heimgartner
Major Program: Beef
The problem Crittenden County Cattlemen's Association hadn't met in several years so to kick off a reorganizational meeting they partnered with Crittenden County Extension.The educational program response The group met with County ANR Agent Dee Heimgartner and a local veterinarian. During discussions the Kentucky Beef Network's Eden Shale Farm was brought up. Several were utilizing designs from the farm and UK Extension Specialist Dr. Steve Higgins. It was decided at that meeting tha
Author: Jessica Morris
Major Program: Beef
Implementing Breeding Soundness Exams (BSE) on a small cattle producers’ farm is a large hurdle for East Kentucky producers. With a shortage of large animal veterinarians, it is a large expense as well as difficult to find time for the Vet to make a farm call. As Extension Agents, we wanted to share the importance of having annual exams conducted on breeding age bulls as a protection against open cow herds. To help combat this concern, and bring better management to the forefront, we hoste
Author: Victor Williams
Major Program: Beef
Implementing Breeding Soundness Exams (BSE) on a small cattle producers’ farm is a large hurdle for East Kentucky producers. With a shortage of large animal veterinarians, it is a large expense as well as difficult to find time for the Vet to make a farm call. As Extension Agents, we wanted to share the importance of having annual exams conducted on breeding age bulls as a protection against open cow herds. To help combat this concern, and bring better management to the forefront, we hoste
Author: Samuel Cofield
Major Program: Beef
2024 Marks the 4th year of Trigg County Extension partnering with the Kentucky Beef Network through Beef Solutions. KY Cattlemen's Ground Beef is a branded beef launched by Beef Solutions a partner with the Ky Cattlemen's association. Most cattle producers have heard of Ky Cattlemen's Ground beef, seen it on the shelf at Krogers or read about it in the Cow Country News. Beef Solutions buys cull cows from Ky farm families who are all BQCA trained producers, committed to e
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: Gary Stockton
Major Program: Beef
Northern Kentucky stands out in Kentucky agriculture due to its unique geographic location, topography, and urban growth. Beef cattle dominate as the top commodity in this region, with most operations focusing on cow/calf production. However, there is a notable shortage of large animal veterinarians. This shortage creates challenges for producers needing to have their bulls examined, often due to a lack of handling facilities or the distance from a veterinarian.To address this issue, the Norther
Author: Reed Graham
Major Program: Beef
Implementing Breeding Soundness Exams (BSE) on a small cattle producers’ farm is a large hurdle for East Kentucky producers. With a shortage of large animal veterinarians, it is a large expense as well as difficult to find time for the Vet to make a farm call. As Extension Agents, we wanted to share the importance of having annual exams conducted on breeding age bulls as a protection against open cow herds. To help combat this concern, and bring better management to the forefront, we hoste
Author: Robert Smith
Major Program: Beef
The problemMost farmers have a lot on their plates, including full time jobs, and management can be a reaction versus a plan. The "Back to Basics Beef Program' is a Specialist lead program aimed at hitting the reset button on the cattle operation. Once a thorough evaluation of the land, feed stuffs, record keeping and herd are compiled by a team of specialist, the reset button can then be reset. This is begun by identifying the positives of the operation and identifyin
Author: Robert Smith
Major Program: Beef
Beef production is one of the largest agriculture economic engines for Nelson County. The 2022 Agriculture census has estimated that we have around 34000 cattle on farms in Nelson county. This herd translates into just a little over $20,000.000. in annual sales or 25% of all ag receipts. It's importance is not questioned and many other enterprises depend on a thriving and profitable beef industry. A lower capital outlay potential still makes this agriculture venture more ea
Author: Jeffrey Lehmkuhler
Major Program: Beef
Drs. Jeff Lehmkuhler and Michelle Arnold received funding from the Kentucky Beef Network to assist in a field study with Merck Animal Health on monitoring the prevalence of fecal eggs and the reduction post-treatment with anthelmintics in Kentucky beef cattle. Groups of cattle were collected from 35 counties from across the state. Extension ANR agents, KBN facilitators and the above specialists sampled 180 groups of beef cattle during 2023 and early 2024. Nearly 7,000 fecal sa
Author: Jeffrey Lehmkuhler
Major Program: Beef
Jeff Lehmkuhler (chair), Maggie Ginn (temp associate/coordinator), Katie VanValin (committee/speaker), Amanda Gumbert (committee), Whitney Carman (committee/speaker), Morgan Hayes (committee/speaker), Daniel Carpenter (committee), Robbie Smith (committee), Greg Halich (committee/speaker)The 2nd Managing Beef Cattle in Confinement conference was held at the Hardin County Extension office on December 14, 2023. Nearly a decade had passed from the previous conference to this conference with fr
Author: Chelsea Sapp
Major Program: Beef
Marion County Master Cattlemen Program June 27, 2024 I collaborated with Nelson and Washington Counties to host the Master Cattlemen Program. We, as a tri-county area noticed the need for education in detail and specific to the topics covered by master cattlemen. This program target audience was current farmers and beginning and young farmers. The UK Beef Extension Team presented on a specific topic at each meeting. Topics included: marketing, nutrition, reproduction, healt
Author: Charles May
Major Program: Beef
Implementing Breeding Soundness Exams (BSE) on a small cattle producers’ farm is a large hurdle for East Kentucky producers. With a shortage of large animal veterinarians, it is a large expense as well as difficult to find time for the Vet to make a farm call. As Extension Agents, we wanted to share the importance of having annual exams conducted on breeding age bulls as a protection against open cow herds. To help combat this concern, and bring better management to the forefront, we hoste
Author: Chad Allen
Major Program: Beef
Implementing Breeding Soundness Exams (BSE) on a small cattle producers’ farm is a large hurdle for East Kentucky producers. With a shortage of large animal veterinarians, it is a large expense as well as difficult to find time for the Vet to make a farm call. As Extension Agents, we wanted to share the importance of having annual exams conducted on breeding age bulls as a protection against open cow herds. To help combat this concern, and bring better man
Author: Kevin Bullock
Major Program: Beef
The Kentucky County Ag Investment Program (CAIP) is funded through the Tobacco Master Settlement and provides resources directly to counties to incentivize best management practices for various ag commodities. The first statewide model program that became the foundation for CAIP was the Beef Genetic Improvement program which provides cost-share dollars for bull purchases based on criteria to facilitate better selection decisions. This program has been ongoing, but evolving, since 2001. Many best
Author: Kevin Bullock
Major Program: Beef
The Kentucky Beef Extension Group conducts numerous educational programs across the state on a multitude of topics which are primarily targeted at commercial cow/calf and stocker producers. Because management on a seedstock operation can be drastically different in some areas it was decided to conduct an educational program targeted to beef seedstock producers. Through funding from the Kentucky Ag Development fund, through the Kentucky Beef Network, an educational program was developed and deliv
Author: Mary McCarty
Major Program: Beef
The second yak conference was held on October 28, 2023, at Morehead State University. 48 tickets were claimed from the online registration site with 140 page views. Participants came from across the United States, and people traveled from Oregon, Missouri, Iowa, Indiana, Ohio, Michigan, New Jersey, and Kentucky. The conference spanned 11 hours, providing information on general yak husbandry and updates from the Southern SARE-supported producer and on-farm research grant work. A post-program eval
Author: William Adkins
Major Program: Beef
Implementing Breeding Soundness Exams (BSE) on a small cattle producers’ farm is a large hurdle for East Kentucky producers. With a shortage of large animal veterinarians, it is a large expense as well as difficult to find time for the Vet to make a farm call. As Extension Agents, we wanted to share the importance of having annual exams conducted on breeding age bulls as a protection against open cow herds. To help combat this concern, and bring better management to the forefront, we hoste
Author: Gary Hamilton
Major Program: Beef
The Montgomery County Cattlemen’s Association is a very active commodity group that is supported by the Extension Service. They sponsor a tour every year for their members to see and learn what others are doing. In June 2024, 20 of its over 200 members conducted a very enjoyable and educational tour entitled "Out West". On this tour the Group flew to Kansas City, MO and boarded a rented bus and set out. They traveled over 2500 miles visiting the Wells Blue Bunny Center (Ice
Author: Rebecca Konopka
Major Program: Beef
It’s a well-known fact that Kentucky is the largest cattle producing state east of the Mississippi River. The 2022 Census of Agriculture reported that Carter County had over $2.7 million in cattle sales annually. The intensive educational program Master Cattleman aims to empower beef cattle producers with the knowledge and skills they need to thrive in this competitive market. Over the six nights of the program, Extension specialists delved into a comprehensive ra
Author: Garrard Coffey
Major Program: Beef
Implementing Breeding Soundness Exams (BSE) on a small cattle producers’ farm is a large hurdle for East Kentucky producers. With a shortage of large animal veterinarians, it is a large expense as well as difficult to find time for the Vet to make a farm call. As Extension Agents, we wanted to share the importance of having annual exams conducted on breeding age bulls as a protection against open cow herds. To help combat this concern, and bring better management to the forefront, we hoste
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: Linda Hieneman
Major Program: Beef
According to the 2022 National Beef Audit, large improvements in quality assurance of Beef Cattle since the previous beef audit. However, there are still lost opportunities in marketing cows and bulls which are the foundation of the herd. The audit lists areas of improvement to help sustain the cattle industry which include managing cattle to minimize defects, observing the overall health of cattle and marketing cattle in a timely manner.The extension agents in Boyd, Carter, Greenup
Author: Maggie Forsee
Major Program: Beef
Since COVID, beef producers have been searching for an outlet to diversify their programs. Through conversations, I realized that there was a large interest in Carroll County for beef production. There was one producer in particular who was very interested in opportunities to really get his program growing. From the traditional education side, I created the field to freezer program that I have previously reported on. Prior to this series, this particular producer had reached out to me askin
Author: Brittany Brewer
Major Program: Beef
A large portion of Scott County farms are cow calf operations. These operations rely on effective management practices to ensure that farmers make an annual profit. With the advancements in technology bull breeding soundness exams are becoming an essential practice on these farms. However, with the limited large animal food veterinarians in Central Kentucky it becomes difficult and costly for producers to implement this practice.To combat with problem I partnered with a local vet clinic an
Author: Brittany Brewer
Major Program: Beef
With recent changes and adaption to technology in the beef industry producers want to be made aware of best standard practices for their farms. Agriculture remains a very controversial industry to the public, so animal husbandry is always at the forefront of every producers mind. To combat these issues we hosted a Chute Side BQA. Here producers go to hear from industry professionals, and get hands on experience implementing new management tactics. 43 producers attended the Chute Side
Author: Shane Bogle
Major Program: Beef
The Caldwell/Lyon Cattlemen's Association has been a staple of leadership and community support in the area for many years. Cooking events, scholarships for local graduates, and educational events provide timely benefit to many local organizations. Association leaders have discussed the need for a junior association for several years. As the agriculture community ages the need to mentor and promote young producers to carry the torch is on everyone's mind. The asso
Author: Jessica Barnes
Major Program: Beef
Harrison County has a large number of cattle producers with more and more young and/ or new producers coming on board. This is due in part to a lot of our larger farms selling into smaller farms as well as many new faces moving into our county from other states. Several of them have never had cattle before or are wanting to expand their current operations by adding cattle. With this surge in newer producers, we thought offering the Master Cattleman program would be very beneficial to our produce
Author: Corinne Belton
Major Program: Beef
In the years since the tobacco buyout, Shelby County, like many other formerly tobacco-dependent counties, has seen an emphasis on improving the quality and efficiency of beef cattle production. According to the 2022 Census of Agriculture, Shelby County has nearly $10 million in beef animal sales yearly, highlighting the importance for beef producers to take herd management and breeding decisions seriously. Additionally, the number of dairy-to-beef conversions as well as new-to-farming pro
Author: Carol Hinton
Major Program: Beef
FECRTProblemIt has always been a mystery to cattle producers if the de-wormers were working properly, unknown activity on de-wormers in cattle could be costing producers lost income. Calves not gaining weight, or poorly doing cows could wreak havoc on a farm. Breckinridge county joined the FECRT with Dr. Jeff Lehmkuhler and the grant they had received, by collecting manure samples from various farms across 3 counties. The deworming practices on each one of the farms ranged fro
Author: Anastasia Saunders
Major Program: Beef
According to Kentucky Cattleman’s Association, Kentucky is the largest cattle producding state east of the Mississippi River and is home to over 859,000 head of cattle and ranks 5th nationally in number of farms. Due to the number of cattle farmers within Scott County, the Scott County Extension office helped organize a Beef Field Day for community members and farmers. On Tuesday July 9th, 2024, I was able to help run and attend a local Scott County Beef Field Day. The Field Day was run by
Author: Sarah Fannin
Major Program: Beef
Beef farmers wanting to implement Breeding Soundness Exams (BSE) in East Ky face several obstacles. These include veterinarian shortages, lack of safe bull handling facilities and transportation plus additional out of pocket expenses and time. Although farmers may understand the importance of BSEs as a protection against open cow herds, these barriers often preclude their participation.To remove these hurdles, Ag Extension Agents implemented a grant to offer three Bull Soundness Exa
Author: Leslie Anderson
Major Program: Beef
The UK Beef Extension Group developed a new electronic platform to improve the access to information of beef cattle producers. This new electronic platform is called Stocket. Stocket has three components; Learn, Connect, Manage. The Learn module connects users to an educational database from UK Extension. Content created by UK Extension is pushed to the system and users have instant and easy access to this content. Connect is a unique social media platform strictly for use by Stocket members. Th
Author: Leslie Anderson
Major Program: Beef
Incorporating techniques to enhance reproductive efficiency improves productivity and profitability in beef cattle cow-calf operations. The two techniques that can impact production efficiency the most include artificial insemination and pregnancy determination. In 2019, we developed a two-day school for beef cattle producers. In 2023/2024 we conducted two AI/PD schools at the UK Beef Farm in Woodford County. Twenty-three cattle producers attending these two-day training sessions and learned the
Author: Leslie Anderson
Major Program: Beef
Product-Market-Fit is a term used in business to describe the importance of producing a product that matches the market of the business. Beef cattle producers rarely consider matching their production with their designated market. For example, most cattle producers in Kentucky market feeder cattle. In the feeder cattle market, steers are more valuable than heifers at the same age. So, to maximize this market strategy, producers need to create as many steers as possible over as short a time perio
Author: Leslie Anderson
Major Program: Beef
Several technologies have been developed for the livestock industry over the last decade. One of these technologies is CowManager. CowManager is software system that allows users to monitor the daily activity of their animals from their phones. CowManager determines activity by using a position sensor located in an ear tag. This position sensor monitors many movements of the animal including estrus, parturition, feeding, rumination, and body temperature. Changes in these movements are determined
Author: Steven Musen
Major Program: Beef
Beef Bash 2023 was held Thursday, September 21st at the C. Oran Little Research Center The theme of Beef Bash 2023 was “Vision of the Future”. The goal was to create an event illustrating the tremendous work done in the beef industry in Kentucky creating a vision of the future of the beef industry. The format was redesigned to accentuate all the work being done in Kentucky to improve the sustainability of the beef industry. We will have rotations featuring current research from UK an
Author: Gregory Comer
Major Program: Beef
Beef cattle require a number of minerals/vitamins for normal bodily maintenance, as well as, for optimal growth and reproduction. Selecting the correct mineral supplement is also important for maintaining healthy animals. Even though quality forages and/or grains can furnish a large portion of the required minerals, producers should select supplements that will meet animal requirements and avoid excesses that reduce profits.To address this issue, the Ohio Co. Extension Service coordinated with D
Author: Chadwick Conway
Major Program: Beef
Implementing Breeding Soundness Exams (BSE) on a small cattle producers’ farm is a large hurdle for East Kentucky producers. With a shortage of large animal veterinarians, it is a large expense as well as difficult to find time for the Vet to make a farm call. As Extension Agents, we wanted to share the importance of having annual exams conducted on breeding age bulls as a protection against open cow herds. To help combat this concern, and bring better management to the forefront, we hoste
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.To promote beef in the county, the Association cooked at the C & S, Mission Store customer appreciation, Murakami employee appreciation, Kentucky Christian School fundraiser, Bluegrass Stockyards customer appreciation, Chamber of Commerce luncheon, Diversity
Author: Katherine VanValin
Major Program: Beef
The problem: Basic education for Kentucky's Beef Cattle Producers covering fundamental areas of beef cattle management and production continues to be a demand amongst the state's cattle producers. The educational program response- While Master Cattleman is not a new program, this program has not been offered since 2019-2020. Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Master Cattleman program consisted of 8-10 in-person classroom sessions; however, given changes in preferences for att
Author: Joshua Jackson
Major Program: Beef
The problem: Basic education for Kentucky's Beef Cattle Producers covering fundamental areas of beef cattle management and production continues to be a demand amongst the state's cattle producers. The educational program response- While Master Cattleman is not a new program, this program has not been offered since 2019-2020. Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Master Cattleman program consisted of 8-10 in-person classroom sessions; however, given changes in preferences for att
Author: Morgan Hayes
Major Program: Beef
The problem: Basic education for Kentucky's Beef Cattle Producers covering fundamental areas of beef cattle management and production continues to be a demand amongst the state's cattle producers.The educational program response- While Master Cattleman is not a new program, this program has not been offered since 2019-2020. Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Master Cattleman program consisted of 8-10 in-person classroom sessions; however, given changes in preferences for attending in-pe
Author: Katherine VanValin
Major Program: Beef
The problem- Mineral supplementation is an important nutritional management practice for Kentucky's beef producers, as beef cattle in KY are susceptible to multiple trace mineral deficiencies and in some cases toxicities. However, there is a large deal of misinformation regarding the potential benefits or limitations to mineral supplementation. Advertisements and on-line claims can make it challenging for producers to select the correct mineral for their herd without overpaying for ingredien
Author: Katherine VanValin
Major Program: Beef
The problem- Agriculture teachers throughout the state have expressed a desire to learn more about beef cattle production and develop tools to better equip their students to work in the beef industry or continue their education and support the beef industryThe educational program response- This program allowed Agriculture teachers throughout the state to become BQCA (Beef Quality and Care Assurance) certified and receive resources to ultimately be able to train their students to become BQCA cert
Author: Kevin Laurent
Major Program: Beef
The West Kentucky Select Bred Heifer Sale held in Guthrie, KY was established by the University of Kentucky Extension in November 2000 as an annual opportunity for progressive cattle producers to purchase quality replacement heifers. In 2005, the effort was expanded to include the University of Tennessee and Tennessee producers in a cooperative effort. Starting in May of 2006, an additional sale was added to the calendar to offer fall calving bred heifers.Heifers are inspected and sc
Author: Katherine VanValin
Major Program: Beef
The problem- While many advancements have continued to change and evolve Kentucky's beef industry, there are basic management practices that are vitally important yet are sometimes overlooked for various reasons. Such practices might include providing a complete mineral supplement, use of a controlled breeding season, crossbreeding for commercial cow-calf producers, etc. The educational program response- This program is led by Dr. Les Anderson, and includes contributions from the entire
Author: Kevin Laurent
Major Program: Beef
The problem: Basic education for Kentucky's Beef Cattle Producers covering fundamental areas of beef cattle management and production specifically as it relates to marketing cattle. The educational program response: The Master Cattleman Program - Marketing Session presents best management practices to enhance the marketability and value of primarily feeder calves and to a lesser extent market cows and bulls. The two-hour session educates producers on the effect that feeder calf quality,
Author: Kevin Laurent
Major Program: Beef
The problem - Agriculture teachers throughout the state have expressed a desire to learn more about beef cattle production and develop tools to better equip their students to work in the beef industry or continue their education and support the beef industryThe educational program response - This program allowed Agriculture teachers throughout the state to become BQCA (Beef Quality and Care Assurance) certified and receive resources to ultimately be able to train their students to beco
Author: Emma Lee
Major Program: Beef
When I attended the Beefing Up Agent Success training, Darrh Bullock gave a Beef Genomics presentation to the agents that were present. Throughout the presentation, I realized that this information could be very useful to my producers and I invited Dr. Bullock to come speak at a Beef Producers meeting in Estill County. On May 9th at 6:00, Dr. Bullock presented the Beef Genomics presentation to the local Cattlemen and beef producers. Participants learned how to read BPD's, as well as breed th
Author: Kevin Laurent
Major Program: Beef
Unweaned bawling calves are at high risk for increased mortality and morbidity when shipped from the farm of origin. By preconditioning calves prior to marketing, cow-calf producer can add value to calves by transitioning them through the weaning phase making them more resistant to disease and stress when shipped. Another benefit to preconditioning is the added weight gain and increased sale weight as compared to marketing directly off the cow.Advanced-PVAP is aimed at producers who h
Author: Kevin Laurent
Major Program: Beef
The problem - To ensure the production of a safe and wholesome product for consumers, it is imperative that beef producers learn proper Beef Quality and Care Assurance (BQCA) techniques. Traditionally this educational curriculum has been delivered via videos and online modules. In recent years there has been interest from producers to learn these practices in a more hands-on manner, utilizing live animals when possible. The educational program response - A hands on BQCA Field Day was held a
