Empowering Small Farmers: Affordable AI School for Enhanced Herd Genetics and Productivity
Extension Education
Lindsay Arthur
CEA for Agriculture
Paris
Abstract
In the dynamic landscape of modern agriculture, small farmers are seeking cost-effective ways to enhance their cattle herd genetics and overall productivity. Artificial insemination (AI) is a tool producers can utilize to introduce high quality genetics into their herds without the additional cost of maintaining a bull. Traditional training opportunities can charge upwards of $500, making it difficult for producers to afford. Recognizing the pivotal role of genetic improvement in cattle production as well as the need for a non-cost prohibitive training, this program aims to empower small farmers with the knowledge and techniques of AI during a one-day training at Paris Stockyard. The program was designed to explain the AI process, and offered hands-on instruction that covered the fundamentals of reproductive anatomy, estrus detection, semen handling, insemination procedures and pregnancy checking. Seventeen participants of a range of ages and farm sizes attended the program. After five hours of classroom instruction, all participants were given the ability to work hands on with cattle chute side. Participants completed the entire AI process including removing semen from a semen tank, palpating and inseminating a live cow, placing a heat detection patch and pulling blood for an IDEXX pregnancy blood testing kit. The instructional program is facilitated under the expertise of Dr. Les Anderson, a distinguished UKY Extension Beef Specialist, with instructional materials provided by ANR Cooperative Extension Agents Lindsay Arthur and Levi Berg. The cost to producers was only $100. All fourteen participants planned to implement at least one of the techniques taught at the school within the next year. Several plan to improve genetics by implementing a crossbreeding program and utilizing Expected Progeny Difference to meet breeding objectives.
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: Lindsay Arthur , Levi Berg
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Arthur , L. CEA for Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension , Kentucky, 40361
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Berg, L. CEA for Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension , Kentucky, 40391