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USE OF A PRODUCER DISCUSSION GROUP FOR PASTURE-BASED DAIRY EDUCATION

Extension Education

Ted Probert
DAIRY SPECIALIST
Mainsfield

Abstract

\r\n In recent years southern Missouri has seen an increased prevalence of pasture-based dairy farming.  This trend has led to the need for extension educational efforts addressing this particular style of milk production.  In searching for the best methods to teach pasture-based dairy production, local extension workers collaborated with producers to organize a pasture-based dairy discussion group.  The group was formed under the premise that extension faculty would organize and facilitate group activities, but teaching would be a responsibility shared by both faculty and producers. Producers and extension faculty alike recognized that opportunities for learning needed to include not only formal teaching methods, but also opportunities for producers to learn through interaction with each other.  To facilitate this cooperative learning, the group holds monthly “pasture walks” throughout the grazing season.  Each month’s excursion is held on a different group member’s farm, rotating so that within two to three years, all group members’ farms are visited.  A typical pasture walk features a planned discussion topic, but also allows for impromptu discussion on other timely issues as well as unique management aspects of the host farm.   Educational efforts focus in the areas of forage systems and management, animal care and management, facility/infrastructure development and management, and financial/records management.  This educational format has proven to be highly valued by participating producers. Organized in 2001, this discussion group is now in its eleventh year of providing educational opportunities to pasture-based dairy producers. 

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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: T.R. Probert, T.R. Rickard, S.A. Hamilton, E.G. Schmitz, S.L. Hambelton, W.R. Prewitt, S.L. Kenyon
  1. Probert, T. Regional Dairy Specialist, University of Missouri Extension, Missouri, 65667
  2. Rickard, T. Regional Dairy Specialist, University of Missouri Extension, Missouri, 65625
  3. Hamilton, S. State Dairy Specialist, University of Missouri Extension, Missouri, 65712
  4. Schmitz, E. Regional Livestock Specialist, University of Missouri Extension, Missouri, 65355
  5. Hambelton, S. Agriculture Business Specialist, University of Missouri Extension, Missouri, 65606
  6. Prewitt, W. Agriculture Business Specialist, University of Missouri Extension, Missouri, 64772
  7. Kenyon, S. Agronomy Specialist, University of Missouri Extension, Missouri, 65606