Do you have a spring calving herd getting ready to calve or a fall herd that just finished up? Or maybe you want a little more practice to become more confident in your abilities to help a cow have a calf. In anticipation of calving season, Kansas State University Animal Sciences and Industry and K-State Research and Extension are planning a series of calving schools in January.

 

The program will outline overall calving management that includes stages of the normal calving process as well as tips to handle difficult calving situations. A.J. Tarpoff, K-State extension beef veterinarian, explains the goals of the event are to increase knowledge, practical skills, and to increase the number of live calves born if they need assistance.

 

The schools will also share tips on when and how to intervene to assist the cow or heifer. Presenters will demonstrate proper use of calving equipment on a life-size cow and calf model.

“Our goal is for producers to leave better prepared for calving season,” Tarpoff adds. “We will discuss timelines on when to examine cows for calving problems, and when to call your vet for help if things are not going well. We will also discuss calf care early in life. It’s an excellent program regardless of experience level.” The meeting will also feature a presentation on vaccine handling, presented by local agents Ben Sims (Greenwood County) and Hunter Nickell (Southwind District)

 

This meeting will be held on Thursday, January 12, 2023, at the 4-H Building at the Old Iron Club, Fredonia, Kansas at 6 pm. RSVP to Southwind District at 620-365-2242, Wildcat District at 620-378-2167, or Greenwood County at 620-583-7455. Dinner will be provided, so an accurate head count is required by January 4th. The meal is sponsored by Merck Animal Health and Salt Creek Vet Clinic of Fredonia.

 

For more and updated information about the Calving Schools or local flyers, go to KSUBeef.org or contact Hunter Nickell, Livestock Production Agent, (620) 365-2242, [email protected].

 

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