Success Story2023 AI School



2023 AI School

Author: Lindsay Arthur

Planning Unit: Bourbon County CES

Major Program: Beef

Plan of Work: Agriculture Education, Marketing, Production and Natural Resources

Outcome: Long-Term Outcome

Artificial Insemination (AI) is the process of placing semen directly into the uterus. While the process has many advantages, it can be difficult for smaller producers to afford and schedule individuals employed by large companies to come to their farm and complete the process of AI'ing their cattle. Producers can take certification classes held by the large semen companies to learn AI techniques but with the average cost of $450, it does not always fit in their budget. 

To solve this problem, UKY Beef Reproductive Specialist Dr. Les Anderson agreed to conduct an AI School for local participants from Bourbon and Clark Counties. 17 participants completed the 1 day course that consisted of the following:

  • Insemination technique: developed through live animal practice, the ability to skillfully and accurately place semen at the proper location within the reproductive tract using sanitary and correct techniques.
  • Semen handling: developed through hands on practice, the ability to properly handle, thaw and prepare semen for insemination, according to the recommendations of semen-producing organizations.
  • Reproductive management: training in the importance of heat detection, herd health, and total herd management for the development and continued success of an AI program. 

The participants ranged from a 16 year old female looking to expand her seedstock operation by improved genetics only available through AI sires to a third generation farmer wanting to reduce costs by not keeping several bulls year-round. Each individual indicated they would take the skills and knowledge learned during the class back to their operation for implementation. 








Stories by Lindsay Arthur


I Can Eat a Whole Plant

I Can Eat a Whole Plant

about 5 years ago by Lindsay Arthur

70 Cloverbud aged youth were able to identify the parts of a plant, discuss the function for each pa... Read More


Nicholas County Youth Livestock Shows

Nicholas County Youth Livestock Shows

about 5 years ago by Lindsay Arthur

The Nicholas County Youth Livestock Shows were held June 15th - 22nd at the county livestock pavilio... Read More


Stories by Bourbon County CES


2019 4-H Teen Conference

2019 4-H Teen Conference

about 5 years ago by Lois Carter

The 95th Annual Kentucky 4-H Teen Conference was held at the University of Kentucky June 10-13, 2019... Read More


SET Projects

about 5 years ago by Lois Carter

Based on information from the Engineering For Kids website, according to the U. S. Department of C... Read More