MANAGING CATTLE ENTERPRISES FOR SUCCESS PROGRAM SERIES
Extension Education
Bridget Stice
EXTENSION AGENT - LIVESTOCK IV
University of Florida
BARTOW
Abstract
\r\n Economic viability of ranching is key to keeping ranch land in cattle production while maintaining “green space” for wildlife and native plant habitat, aquifer recharge and carbon recovery. Studies have indicated that cowherd efficiency can be increased 5-20% by implementing recommended management practices. The Managing Cattle Enterprises for Success program series was offered to Polk County beef cattle owners, operators, managers and laborers to increase knowledge and adoption of management practices that will improve cow herd efficiency. The series included six programs on a variety of topics that are important to the success of cow-calf operations. A total of 165 Polk County ranchers attended the program series. On average, participants of each program segment managed approximately 9,122 head of cattle that grazed approximately 21,548 acres. Evaluations indicated a 70% overall increase in knowledge. A follow-up survey indicated that 95% of participants adopted two or more management practices. These practices included: calf marketing, vaccination, bull evaluation and management, breeding seasons, mineral supplementation, evaluating BCS, supplement strategies, soil analysis, pasture fertilization, and record keeping. As a result of their knowledge gain and subsequent adoption of management practices, it can be estimated that an additional 228,050 pounds of weaned calves will be produced annually. Depending on the cattle market, this could translate to an annual economic increase of between $330,672 and $364,880. This will result in greater economic viability of the producer, better positioning him to preserve the ranching land and its environmental benefits.
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Poster has NOT been presented at any previous NACAA AM/PIC
This poster is being submitted for judging. It will be displayed at the AM/PIC if not selected as a State winner. The abstract will be published in the proceedings.
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Authors: B. Carlisle
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Carlisle, B. Extension Agent, Florida Cooperative Extension, Florida, 33831