In 2017 I was able to partner with UK Beef specialists and technician to integrate two different year round calving beef herds into defined spring and fall calving beef herds. We accomplished this through pregnancy checking cows and dividing them into their respective calving season. We also began utilizing MGA to synchronize the cows to come into heat for breeding in a shorter window. We were able to manage bulls in and out of the cow herds for 90-120 day calving seasons with the goal of each producer to shorten that season over time. We were able to improve herd health through timely working of calves and getting the cows on a vaccination program. Minerals and feed programs were reviewed and changes were made if needed.

In 2018 we were able to continue with managing the cow herds like in 2017. We discovered in these herds that some cows were beginning to decline in performance because of their age. We began weaning heifers and developing replacements from within the herd. We were able to expand the heifer development phase and brought on 2 more producers that decided to develop their own heifers as well. We introduced artificial insemination into 4 different farming operations this spring breeding around 120 first calf heifers. Our goal is to develop these heifers into cows and have a positive impact on the age and performance of the cow herd.