As part of the Applied Master Cattleman program, extension specialists at the University of Kentucky and the Kentucky Beef Network hosted the Weaning 101 Workshop at the Eden Shale Farm in Owenton, KY again this fall. This program provides producers with an opportunity to hear from Industry Experts and University of Kentucky Extension Specialists on a variety of areas pertaining to the weaning period. Topics covered during the day event included: Vaccination Protocols, Implanting Strategies, Feeding Programs for Weaned Calves, Improving Management Efficiency, Feeder Cattle Grading, and Marketing Options.

Producers involved in the workshop were divided into three groups and assigned a set of 10 calves. Participants had the opportunity to gain hands-on, chute-side experience of processing calves; including proper vaccine handling and injection sites and implanting techniques. All of the calves were weighed, dewormed, and received their weaning vaccinations. As a group, producers worked together to develop a feeding program for their 10 calves. At the conclusion of a four-week feeding period, calves were re-weighed to determine post-weaning average daily gains.

A total of 20 producers participated in the program and represented 7 counties. A post-program evaluation was filled out by participants to determine program impact. Several indicated they intended to make management changes after the program including changing vaccination protocols, weaning methods, and modifying their feeding program. Chute-side processing and developing a feeding plan were indicated by 90% of participants as having high educational value. After the program, about 70% of participants increased their knowledge and understanding of weaning related topics from moderate understanding to a high level of understanding. Participants indicated a potential total economic impact of $20,000. A follow-up session was held during the Eden Shale open house in October to share with participants the post-weaning performance of the calves.