McLean County CES Program Indicators and Success StoriesJul 1, 2019 - Jun 30, 2020





1011 - Beef
1011.3) 16

Number of producers who reported saving money or reducing cost of operation

1011.4) 15

Number of producers who now practice efficient reproduction techniques

1011.5) 6

Number of producers who implement a crossbreeding program and utilize Expected Progeny Difference when selecting bulls

1011.1) 27

Number of producers who reported improved record keeping practices as a result of Extension programs

1011.2) 51

Number of producers reporting changed or improved pasture management practices



Success Stories

Midwest Beef Summit

Author: John Fourqurean

Major Program: Beef

The cost of production, in all aspects of agriculture, continues to increase while prices remain stable or decrease.  This scenario requires producers to analyze each decision as it relates to margin management.  For cow/calf operations, the cost of replacement breeding stock often takes 9 years before a positive return on investment occurs.  The need to cull typically coincides with the conclusion of this period, leaving salvage value as the only profit.  Understanding genet

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Management Details Improve Cow Calf Profitability

Author: John Fourqurean

Major Program: Beef

Paying attention to details helps to improve the profitability of any business. Dr. Kenneth Burdine, Dr. Greg Halich, and Jonathan Shepherd from the University of Kentucky College of Agriculture Food and Environment, Agricultural Economics Department developed a program titled Cow Calf Profitability. They worked with Extension Agents for Agriculture and Natural Resources across the state to deliver the program in five locations across the commonwealth. Program topics focused primarily on managem

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