McNay Farm to Host Beef Cow Research Field Day

Jul 31, 2024

By Beth Reynolds

Applied research is a core component of Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, and the Iowa Beef Center has conducted several research projects in recent years that address questions and concerns from cow-calf producers.

The center will share the results of those projects at a Cow Research Field Day, Aug. 23 at Iowa State University's McNay Memorial Research and Demonstration Farm in Chariton.

The day starts at 9 a.m. with an optional farm tour highlighting some current alfalfa plots and farm facilities. The main program runs from 10:30 a.m. to noon with speakers covering a variety of recently completed or ongoing research projects regarding cow-calf and forage production.

Some of the featured research projects are:

Starch and digestible fiber-based supplementation impact on first-calf heifer performance and nutrient mobilization through the production cycle
Heifer development using carcass ultrasound as an indicator for heifer reproduction performance
Will pour-ons affect your dung dynasty

The Lucas County Cattlemen will provide lunch following the presentations. There will also be opportunities to visit informally with researchers and farm staff. In addition to the topics discussed during the program, research reports will be available on other recently competed projects.

The McNay Research Farm is located at 45249 170th Ave., Chariton. Although this event is free, registration is requested by Aug. 21 by emailing Beth Reynolds, extension program specialist, at bethr@iastate.edu or call 515-294-BEEF (2333).

(This article was written by IBC communications intern Dacia Schoulte.)

Source : iastate.edu

Video: You Be The Judge: Evaluating 8 Breeding Rams!

It's time for some honest feedback here at Ewetopia Farms! Today, we’re showing you all eight rams we used for breeding this year. Instead of just presenting them, we thought it would be fun to create a “Ram Report Card” — where we point out both their strengths and areas for improvement.

But here’s the twist: you be the judge! In the comments, let us know what you like about each ram and what you think could be improved. No ram is ever perfect, but every one of them brings something valuable to the flock. By sharing perspectives, we all learn more about what to look for in good breeding stock.

At Ewetopia Farms, we raise registered Suffolk and Polled Dorset sheep, focusing on high-quality genetics, structure, and friendly temperaments. Evaluating breeding rams is part of the bigger picture of building stronger flocks — and we’re excited to share the process with you.

If you enjoy seeing how we evaluate our animals, follow along by subscribing to our channel. We share daily insights into the joys and challenges of sheep farming here in Canada.