Bracken County CES

Title:

Beef Production - Beef Quality and Care Assurance

MAP:

Agriculture

Agents Involved:

ANR

MAJOR PROGRAM 1:

Beef

Situation:

The general public now places a high value on how farmers treat their animals and it is proven that animals perform better when they are handled correctly. To improve our image as good stewards of animal care and to enhance our profitability, producers need to follow recommended guidelines.

Long-Term Outcomes:

Improved public animal handling image

Improved animal welfare

Improved marketing opportunities

Intermediate Outcomes:

Utilize basic principles of dystocia and manage to avoid it

Use proper cattle handling and movement techniques

Construct a cattle handling facility

Utilize proper euthanasia techniques

Use proper transportation practices

Reduce the use of electronic prods, pipes, and sticks for moving animals

Calculate and properly time for castration and dehorning to minimize animal stress

Utilize body condition scoring to manage nutrition of animals

Initial Outcomes:

Describe the best management practices for handling cattle and providing for their well-being.

Gain knowledge on genetic factors associated with cattle welfare.

Understand body condition scoring and how to manage nutrition for a healthy, reproductive animal.

Evaluation:

Initial Outcome: Participants will learn how to handle cattle properly and provide for their well being, and how to manage nutrition for healthy animals

Indicator: Comments from class participants and their willingness to make changes

Method: Class with recommended guidelines, demonstrations at livestock events

Timeline: Winter and Spring of each year

Intermediate Outcome: Apply the management of Dystocia from sire selection to assistance at birth

Indicator: Changes or improvements to live calves at birth

Method: Survey of participants

Timeline: Following calving season

Long-term Outcome: Residence and neighbors approve of animal care of local farmers

Indicator: Reduction or elimination of calls regarding animal issues

Method: Public discussions

Timeline: Ongoing

Learning Opportunities:

Audience: Beef Producers

Project or Activity: Beef Quality and Care Assurance

Content or Curriculum: Video and handouts

Inputs: KBN, UK Specialist, Agents, Office

Date: Winter of each year

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Audience:

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