Bracken County CES

Title:

Beef Production - Cattle Handling and Care

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: Cattle Handling and Care Education and Certification
Content or Curriculum: Video and handouts
Inputs: KBN, UK Specialist, Agents, Office
Date: Winter of each year

Audience:
Project or Activity:
Content or Curriculum:
Inputs:
Date:

Audience:
Project or Activity:
Content or Curriculum:
Inputs:
Date: