Beef cattle operations are the economic backbone of agriculture in Eastern Kentucky.   In light of recent market changes, excessive wet weather conditions, and narrowing income margins, Breathitt, Elliott, Magoffin, Morgan and Wolfe ANR agents hosted the Master Cattlemen Program. The goal of the program is to increase the overall profitability of beef producers through intensive classroom training. Fifty farmers - including twenty-two females and five new farmers - completed 10 three hour weekly sessions taught by Extension Specialists.

Practice changes as a direct result of the information presented include:

*Incorporating new seeding for better pastures

*Eliminating bull costs and increasing genetic quality by implementing AI program

*Understanding market reports

*Reducing vaccination costs but increasing herd health

*Saving hay and feed costs through balancing rations

One Breathitt County farmer stated “I learned something at every class and am already implementing new management practices on my small herd to make my farm more profitable”.