By Scout Nelson
Nebraska Extension announces the return of its Calving College series for 2026 after strong participation last year. This program is designed to help improve calving outcomes through practical and research-based training. It includes a three-part online webinar series paired with hands-on, in-person workshops at multiple locations in Nebraska and South Dakota.
The webinar series, titled Fundamental Knowledge for Successful Calving Season, takes place January 19, January 26, and February 2 from 7:30 to 8:45 p.m. CT. Each session is co-led by two experienced animal health experts, giving attendees the opportunity to learn detailed information and ask questions in real time.
The January 19 session focuses on understanding normal stages of labor, what happens during delivery, and how to recognize abnormal presentations that may require assistance. The January 26 session explains post-calving care, normal vitals, identifying complications, handling colostrum, and neonatal resuscitation. The final session on February 2 reviews nutritional needs, common health concerns, environmental stress, and care practices during the first two months of life.
A new feature for 2026 is the opportunity for participants to receive Beef Quality Assurance continuing education credits.
In-person workshops follow the webinars and are scheduled for February 9 through 12. These workshops begin at 6 p.m. and allow participants to practice calving techniques using a full-sized cow and calf model. Locations include Valentine, Winner, Atkinson, and Norfolk. This hands-on format helps participants strengthen their skills before the start of calving season.
Registration for the full program costs $80 and includes all three webinars and one workshop session. Registration it must be completed by January 12, 2026, to ensure all materials arrive on time. Participants receive a notebook of Nebraska Extension resources and access to recorded sessions for review after the event. A computer and internet connection are needed to attend the webinars.
The program aims to support livestock operations by delivering reliable, research-based information and practical instruction. Additional details are available by contacting the program coordinator directly lindsay.waechter-mead@unl.edu.
Photo Credit: nebraska-extension
Categories: Nebraska, Education, Livestock, Beef Cattle, Dairy Cattle