By Denise Schwab and Alaina Friesleben
AMES, Iowa Experienced cattle feeders are invited to take part in an Advanced Cattle Feeders Clinic on March 3 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Schwers Brothers Feedyard, located at 31662 Highway 3, New Vienna. The hands-on program is designed to address some of the most pressing challenges facing Iowa feedyards today.
The clinic was developed specifically for seasoned cattle feeders and will focus on advanced management practices related to feed mixing and delivery, bunk management, implant effectiveness, animal health and foot and mobility issues associated with feeding cattle to heavier weights.
“We’ve tried to identify some of the biggest challenges and keys to success for Iowa cattle feeders,” said Denise Schwab, extension beef specialist with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach. “Then we brought together experts in each of those areas to share practical, research-based strategies participants can apply immediately.”
Program topics will include implant monitoring and best practices, feed mixing and delivery, bunk management and managing challenges associated with feeding cattle to heavier weights. Nathan Pyatt of Elanco Animal Health will demonstrate proper implant placement, cleanliness, pellet integrity evaluation and methods to monitor implant success. Zeb Gray of Diamond V will lead a hands-on total mixed ration audit focused on improving ration consistency from formulation through delivery to the feed bunk.
Source : iastate.edu