Shelby County CES Program Indicators and Success StoriesJul 1, 2017 - Jun 30, 2018





1011 - Beef
1011.1) 40

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

1011.2) 53

Number of producers reporting changed or improved pasture management practices

1011.3) 5

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

1011.4) 22

Number of producers who now practice efficient reproduction techniques

1011.5) 45

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



Success Stories

Capital Classic Heifer Sale Improves Herds

Author: Corinne Belton

Major Program: Beef

Shelby County, like many other formerly tobacco-dependent counties, has seen an emphasis on quality beef production since the tobacco buyout. According to the 2012 Census of Agriculture, Shelby County has nearly $15 million in beef animal sales yearly, emphasizing the need for beef producers to take herd management and breeding decisions seriously. Tobacco settlement funds have been used extensively throughout the state to support the purchase of quality bulls and females in order to increa

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Regional Beef Field Day Earns Praises

Author: Corinne Belton

Major Program: Beef

Educating local beef producers is a high priority in Shelby County. According to the 2012 Census of Agriculture, Shelby County has nearly $15 million in beef animal sales yearly, 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 mind, Agriculture Extension agents in Oldham, Trimble,

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For Rookies Fills Need for New (and Seasoned) Farmers

Author: Corinne Belton

Major Program: Beef

As in other communities, Shelby County is seeing a renewed interest in “homesteading” (homegrown food production) and a return to small farming. The county has seen steady growth in land ownership in the 1-49 acre range with landowners being a mix of retirees, new-to-farming land owners, and farmers looking to scale-back or diversify their operations away from traditional crops and livestock.  Farms reporting sales in the $1-$2500 range numbered 656 in 2012.  Due to the inc

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Master Cattleman Program

Author: Corinne Belton

Major Program: Beef

Shelby County, like many other formerly tobacco-dependent counties, has seen an emphasis on quality beef production since the tobacco buyout. According to the 2012 Census of Agriculture, Shelby County has nearly $15 million in beef animal sales yearly, emphasizing the need for beef producers to take herd management and breeding decisions seriously. Similar situations exist in neighboring Henry and Oldham counties, leading the agents to host the 2017 Master Cattlemen’s Series. The Mast

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