The cost of production, in all aspects of agriculture, continues to increase while prices remain stable or decrease.  This situation requires beef producers to analyze each decision carefully to maximize profit margins. 

         For beef cow/calf operations, the cost of replacement breeding stock often takes 9 years before a positive return on investment occurs.  The need to cull typically coincides with the conclusion of this period, leaving salvage value as the only profit.  Understanding genetic traits, the basics of successful reproduction, and how to effectively manage animals is key to maximizing profit potential an animal has when added to a herd.  

         Producers in the Green River Region identified the need to extend animal productivity by at least 2 years, beyond the typical cull cow window.   When the process of improved management and extended productivity is fully implemented, there is an additional net revenue potential of $10,000 per year for the typical 20 cow Kentucky herd.     

         University of Kentucky Agriculture and Natural Resources agents in the Green River Area partnered with agents from Southwest Indiana and Southeast Illinois to plan and host the “Midwest Beef Summit”.  The program was designed to improve the management skills of beef producers, so as to increase cow longevity in the herd.  

         Top beef geneticists, reproductive specialists, veterinarians and economist from land grant institutions spoke at the daylong conference.  The 90 producers in attendance included many who attended the first “Midwest Beef Summit” two years ago. Attendees were presented information in the areas modern genetic traits and advancements, how to properly assist dystocia, and the economics associated with cow longevity.  

         Attendees were surveyed, pre and post program, on knowledge gained regarding these practices. The surveys showed the following results:

•  98% of attendees were better equipped to manage their cowherds for profitability after the program.  
• Participants were able to correctly answer questions on the content presented, 85% of the time

Initial plans for the next program are underway, to build upon the material presented, thus improving beef management skills and increasing cow longevity.