When you think about Kentucky cattle, Henderson County may not always be the first county you think of. Although not too many, Henderson County has several cattle operations. A problem that all cattle farmers face year after year is herd health. The importance of using balanced diets in a beef cattle feeding program is well documented, however convincing some cattle producers how important it is to provide a balanced diet to their animals can sometimes be quite challenging. Most cattle producers in Henderson County are part time producers and are quite content to simply provide a roll of hay and a protein block and see no value in knowing the nutrient content of the forage they are feeding.  

As extension educators, we regularly offer feeding advice and balance numerous rations for our clientele and very seldom have and/or take the opportunity to follow up on results of our recommendations. Dr. Jeff Lehmkuhler was invited to the county to help producers see the importance of a balanced diet and overall herd health. Most of the cattle producers attended the meeting and the survey data showed that everyone who attended was excited about the meeting topics. 

Results show that 100% of the attendees enjoyed the information provided by the speaker and would love to have him come back to the county again. 90% of the attendees said they would share the information learned with others. 50% of the attendees said the information learned was worth $5-15/acre and most of the attendees would like even more topics for the next meeting.