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‘Cow Clinics’ Improve Producer Confidence and Increase Profits

Animal Science

Brent Plugge
Extension Educator
University of Nebraska
Kearney

Abstract

Body Condition Scoring (BCS) and forage testing are critical components in managing the reproductive success and productivity of beef cows. Each serves a distinct purpose, but they are closely related in ensuring that cows receive the proper nutrition and care. Regular assessments of both BCS and feed can help prevent nutritional imbalances, optimize production, and reduce the likelihood of health issues related to under or overfeeding. By combining these two tools, producers can improve herd management, ensure better animal welfare, and boost overall productivity. A series of five “Cow Clinics” were held in Nebraska in 2024. Each clinic focused on the “why, how, and when to body condition score beef cows” as well as “forage sampling and understanding a feed analysis”.   These management practices were examined in detail in the classroom with discussions that were supplemented with appropriate educational material and sample feed analysis.  Locations were chosen for their ability to provide live animal demonstrations. Following the classroom discussions participants viewed cows in different body condition scores and discussed the differences with the instructors.  Bales were also provided to demonstrate correct forage sampling techniques.  Without a formal presentation, participants were more engaged and frequently asked questions throughout the clinics.  Seventy-four producers, NRCS representatives, and consultants attended one of the five “Cow Clinics”, representing 91,037 acres and 15,048 cattle. At the conclusion of the “Cow Clinic” series, 87% of participants reported an increase in knowledge with 20% reporting a significant increase in knowledge, and 66% reported likely or very likely to make management changes. Participants reported a $20.27 per cow value because of attending the clinic and approximately 68% of the attendees participated in a free forage analysis with the offer to help decipher the results and provide ration formulation advice.

Authors: Brent Plugge, Randy Saner, Erin Laborie, Josie Crouch, Ryan Benjamin, Rick Rasby
  1. Brent Plugge Extension Educator, Nebraska Extension, Nebraska, 68847
  2. Randy Saner Extension Educator and Livestock Systems Program Leader, Nebraska Extension, Nebraska, 69101
  3. Erin Laborie Extension Educator, Nebraska Extension, Nebraska, 68926
  4. Josie Crouch Extension Educator, Nebraska Extension, Nebraska, 68638
  5. Ryan Benjamin Extension Educator , Nebraska Extension, Nebraska, 69201
  6. Rick Rasby Extension Specialist, Nebraska Extension, Nebraska, 68583