Kentucky’s cattle industry remains a vital part of the state's agricultural economy. According to the 2023 State Agriculture Overview from the National Agricultural Statistics Service, the state is home to over 1.8 million cows and calves. This sector contributed approximately $1.08 billion in agricultural revenue in 2022. With livestock prices on the rise, producers are more motivated than ever to improve efficiency and the overall quality of their herds.

Recognizing this need, Agriculture Agents from Allen, Barren, Hart, Metcalfe, and Monroe counties collaborated to host a refreshed and expanded Master Cattlemen course series. The series kicked off in Barren County—the birthplace of the original Master Cattlemen Program—and rotated through each participating county.

Producers of varying experience levels and herd sizes (ranging from 7 to 200 head) took part in the program. Regardless of their background, participants shared a common goal: to enhance their knowledge, revisit proven practices, and improve the profitability of their operations.

Throughout the course, participants received comprehensive binders containing presentation materials and other valuable resources. They also learned about the ongoing support and decision-making tools available through the University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service.

The combined operations of the attendees represented approximately 1,200 head of cattle—an estimated $2 million in potential feeder cattle revenue based on current market prices. Nearly all participants were cow/calf producers, with just three specializing in purebred or seedstock production.

Out of the 30 total participants, 23 completed program evaluations. These evaluations offered insights into their operations, identified key takeaways, and provided suggestions for future improvements. Notably, 20 respondents reported that they planned to implement changes as a result of the course—changes expected to increase operational efficiency and positively impact their bottom line.

Some producers indicated they would adopt new reproductive management tools, such as MGA or CIDR devices, to tighten calving intervals and produce a more uniform and marketable calf crop. Others emphasized a renewed focus on forage management, recognizing its wide-reaching effects on herd performance and profitability.

One participant summarized the program’s value by saying, “I learned something at every session. Most of the material I had some experience with, but I appreciated the refresher.”