Field Trip to Dixon Springs, University of Illinois Research Facility

On Monday, August 22nd a group of beef producers traveled to the University of Illinois Dixon Springs Agricultural Center. The center is located in the southern part of the state near Simpson, Illinois. The station operates on approximately 580 acres of university-owned property, and about 4,200 acres under special use permit with the U.S. Forest Service. The Animal Sciences Department manages approximately 900 beef cows and their offspring. Research is conducted on genetics and how it is associated with feed efficiency, reproduction, and nutrition.

The producers toured the pastures, analyzed their equipment, viewed the cattle and learned more about their fall calving cycle, warm season pastures and rotational grazing system, which is on a 15 acre paddock weekly rotation. Afterwards the group enjoyed stopping by the Garden of the Gods Recreation Area where they learned about ancient rock formations, all while taking in the breathtaking views.


Participants viewed cutting edge technology like these automated feed bunks.Exploring the research farm.Up close with the herd. 
Garden of the GodsEnjoying the Garden of the Gods State ParkThis trip was a collaboration of the Purchase Area Cattleman's Association, the Marshall County Extension Office and the Hickman County Extension office.