As the impact of Covid-19 was being felt worldwide, Extension agents were hard at work meeting the ever changing needs of clientele during a very trying time. As businesses closed their doors and producer meetings were canceled, agriculture agents were given the gift of time. This was utilized in Caldwell County to personally reach clientele in ways busy schedules had not allowed for in some time. Over the last four decades across Kentucky, CPH-45 (Certified Preconditioned for Health) calf sales have become highly-regarded as a source for premium feeder calves. The sales, which are hosted by groups of producers across the state and managed by the University of Kentucky, require consignors to follow strict animal health and handling guidelines so that only quality calves are included in the sales.

Thanks to CAIP (County Agriculture Investment Program) and multiple farm visits with discussions about CPH-45, seven producers participated in multiple CPH sales for the first time in 2020-2021. Producers gained an average of $85 per head profit over regular sales and learned the value of retaining ownership after weaning. All new participants plan to continue to market select calves through CPH-45.