By Scout Nelson
Nebraska Extension will host a Winter Stocker Tour on January 21 near Imperial. The event provides an in-depth look at stocker and yearling management strategies that use Nebraska forage resources technology and market advantages. An alternate date of January 28 is planned if weather conditions require a change.
The tour features Maddux Cattle Company and includes visits to cow calf pairs grazing cornstalks near Imperial. Participants will learn about late weaning calves on stalks and how this practice fits into an integrated stocker and yearling production system. The event focuses on practical strategies that improve flexibility and long-term performance.
“This tour is a great opportunity to bring stocker operators together to learn from one another while also hearing about the latest research on stocker systems in Nebraska,” said Erin Laborie, livestock systems extension educator.
“Producers will be able to see real-world applications in the field and connect with peers and Extension specialists around management strategies that can improve efficiency and profitability.”
Registration opens from 9 30 to 10 a m Mountain Time. Morning presentations follow and feature Nebraska Extension specialists and producer speakers. Lunch is served at noon and the on-site tour takes place in the afternoon.
The meeting is held at Crossroads Wesleyan Church located at 220 West 17th Street in Imperial. Educational sessions focus on management and market topics that are important to stocker and yearling operations.
Discussion areas include using rye or wheat to bridge the gap between cornstalks and grass for growing calves. Sessions also cover virtual fencing applications management considerations and how new technology can support grazing systems.
Another topic examines the impact of the Tyson plant closure on the stocker and yearling sector. Speakers also explain the competitive advantage of Nebraska stocker and yearling programs within the beef industry.
The Winter Stocker Tour is designed for cattle producers' landowners to feed managers and industry professionals who want to improve efficiency flexibility and profitability. Advance registration is encouraged by January 14. The cost to attend is 20 dollars per person payable at the door.
The event is sponsored by Merck Animal Health and the Southwest Nebraska Cattlemen.
Photo Credit: nebraska-extension
Categories: Nebraska, Livestock, Beef Cattle, Dairy Cattle, Weather