K-State To Host Beginning Farmer, Rancher Conferences This Fall

Sep 25, 2025

The Kansas State University College of Agriculture is hosting four conferences across the state this fall focused on the next generation’s return to the farm or ranch. The Beginning Farmer and Rancher Conference series, developed by Robin Reid and Ashlee Westerhold in K-State’s Department of Agricultural Economics, is designed to equip students, young producers and those new to agriculture with the tools needed to build successful, sustainable careers in farming or ranching.

“Returning home to the farm is more than just going back to work; it’s about ensuring the long-term viability of a business and maintaining strong family relationships,” said Westerhold, director of the office of farm and ranch transition.

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Video: Refeeding Syndrome After Weaning - Dr. Theo van Kempen

In this episode of The Swine Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast, Dr. Theo van Kempen, an independent consultant with extensive swine nutrition and product development experience, explains how refeeding syndrome can affect newly weaned piglets. He discusses phosphate depletion, edema, intestinal health, oxygen delivery, and high-glycemic nursery diets, and presents nutritional strategies designed to reduce postweaning challenges. Listen now on all major platforms!

Click here to read the full research article: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40710...

“Refeeding syndrome develops when feeding resumes after fasting, creating an acute phosphate deficiency as metabolism rapidly accelerates and cellular phosphate requirements increase.”

Meet the guest: Dr. Theo van Kempen / theo-van-kempen-26181b15 holds a Ph.D. in Nutrition from the University of Illinois and has extensive experience in swine nutrition, digestive health, nutrient management, and feed product development. His career includes academic research at North Carolina State University and leadership positions in animal nutrition R&D. He currently works independently in product development, including nutraceutical and nutritional innovation. Listen to Dr. Theo van Kempen on The Swine Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast, available on all major platforms!