SDSU Extension to Host Webinar on Backgrounding Calves

Dec 18, 2023

SDSU Extension is hosting a webinar series on backgrounding feed strategies for cattle producers.

Backgrounding Fundamentals is from 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. CST/11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. MT on Jan. 10, 17 and 24, 2024. Backgrounding is the term for strategically feeding calves from weaning until they are ready to be finished. Finishing brings beef cattle to their optimal slaughter weight.

The three-part webinar series will provide the most up-to-date research throughout. Week one will feature a market outlook and risk management information, including an overview of Livestock Risk Protection insurance options. Week two will provide a target market roadmap, helping producers identify the right growth targets and nutrition programs for their cattle. The third week will discuss feed cost control strategies and cattle water intake.

Sydney Vanderhoff, SDSU Extension Beef Nutrition Field Specialist, said managing risks and feed costs is more important than ever as producers navigate volatile market conditions.

During graduate school, Vanderhoff researched calf performance using implants and distillers grain supplementation in backgrounding and grazing calves and discovered a passion for educating others on the practice.

“More people are starting to explore backgrounding and ways to improve their backgrounding operation,” Vanderhoff said. “For others, you can always learn something you didn’t know or refresh your memory.”

Registration is $30 per person, which includes a recording of the webinar after each session. To register, visit the SDSU Extension Events page and search “backgrounding”.

For more information, contact SDSU Extension Beef Nutrition Field Specialist Sydney Vanderhoff, SDSU Extension Beef Nutrition Field Specialist Madison Kovarna, or Assistant Professor and SDSU Extension Feedlot Specialist Warren Rusche.

Source : sdstate.edu

Video: FLEECED! Sheep Shearer Hands Over Clippers!

It's sheep shearing day at Ewetopia Farms! ?? Our Dorset lambs and ewes are getting fleeced — and for the first time, our shearer hands over his clippers to a beginner. We finish shearing the last of our adult ewes and this year’s Dorset ewe lambs.

From moving the sheep between barns, loading them into chutes, and watching the wool come off, this is always one of the most satisfying days on the farm. But this video has a twist — we welcomed a new helper, Gian, who’s not only lending a hand but also learning how to shear! With guidance from our experienced shearer, he got a crash course in sheep shearing and even tried his hand at shearing a couple of lambs himself.

You’ll see firsthand how both teacher and student handled this unique challenge. Shearing is more than just removing wool — it’s about sheep health, comfort, and giving us a closer look at the flock. It’s always amazing to see the transformation from woolly sheep to freshly shorn ewes and lambs.