Success StoryKentucky Beef Efficiency Conference: Production Efficiency Begins with a Healthy Calf



Kentucky Beef Efficiency Conference: Production Efficiency Begins with a Healthy Calf

Author: Jeffrey Lehmkuhler

Planning Unit: Animal and Food Sciences

Major Program: Beef

Outcome: Initial Outcome

The Kentucky Beef Efficiency was again a major draw having between 300-350 beef producers, county agents and industry representatives in attendance.  The goal of the program is to provide those involved in the beef industry and opportunity to improve their knowledge of beef cattle management and factors that impact their management decisions to enhance production efficiency.   The program was held in Owensboro, KY prior to the start of the annual Kentucky Cattlemen’s Association convention.   Speakers from Mississippi, Texas and Alabama delivered presentations on winter nutritional management of beef cows to improve calf immunity, vaccination protocols to improve calf immunity and reduce morbidity and mortality, and considerations for implementing management strategies to reduce the risk of pathogen exposure of newborn calves.   Averaging 149 post-program evaluations, the potential economic benefit reported was $1,044/operation for a total potential impact of $365,400.  Participants indicated increased knowledge and understanding which will promote the adoption of management change in some beef herds to improve calf health and overall herd efficiency.