Timely and accurate pregnancy detection in cattle is essential for effective herd management, cost savings, and improved reproductive efficiency. Traditional methods often require veterinary visits or lab testing, which can delay results and increase expenses. Local producers and agricultural educators identified a need for hands-on training in using on-farm pregnancy tests, which can provide accurate results as early as 28 days post-breeding.

In response, ANR/4-H Extension Agent Kristen Stumbo partnered with McCarty Farms and the local FFA chapter to host a hands-on cattle pregnancy testing workshop. The program focused on teaching participants how to safely collect blood samples from cattle and accurately conduct on-farm pregnancy tests. The workshop also included an educational session on the economic and management benefits of early pregnancy detection.

The workshop engaged a total of 22 participants, including:

• 20 youth from local 4-H and FFA programs.
• 5 adults, including local and out of town producers and agricultural educators.

Participants worked in small groups to test 15 cattle for pregnancy using the on-farm test kits, gaining valuable hands-on experience.

Evaluation data collected through pre and post-workshop surveys and observations demonstrated significant learning and impact among participants. All participants reported increased confidence in their ability to safely collect blood samples and accurately perform on-farm pregnancy tests. 4-H youth expressed a heightened interest in pursuing further education or careers in animal science or veterinary fields prompting the start of a 4-H Livestock Club. Adult participants indicated a strong interest in incorporating on-farm pregnancy testing into their herd management practices, citing the speed and accuracy of the results as key advantages. Follow-up conversations with a producer highlighted that they currently send blood samples off the farm and were excited at the ease of use and time savings that the on farm tests allowed, they are excited to utilize these tests in their next breeding season.  Overall, the workshop not only enhanced technical skills but also contributed to more efficient and cost-effective herd management in the community.