Calving Clinic Prepares Cattle Producers for Success

By Andi Anderson

The Iowa Beef Center, in partnership with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, will offer an Advanced Calving Clinic to support Iowa cattlemen and women as they prepare for a successful calving season and the following breeding period.

The clinic will take place on Thursday, Feb. 19, from 5:30 to 9 p.m. at the Iowa National Guard Armory in Denison.

According to Iowa State extension beef specialist Erika Lundy-Woolfolk, the clinic is designed to provide practical learning opportunities while allowing participants to ask questions and share experiences.

The program covers the full calving process, from conception through calving, with a strong focus on hands on education.

Session topics include managing dystocia using a life size calving model, neonatal calf health and care, beef cow nutrition basics, and calving distribution management. These sessions aim to help producers improve outcomes during calving and support herd productivity.

“Whether you’ve calved 10 cows or 10,000 cows, there’s always a new technique to learn to help you get one more calf born alive,” she said. "Attendees of previous Advanced Calving Clinics have reported substantial satisfaction with the program, estimating an average benefit of $1,480 per operation."

Lundy-Woolfolk also highlighted the importance of the life size calving model, which allows participants to practice techniques in a realistic setting.

“Dr. Terry Engelken from the ISU College of Veterinary Medicine will help participants with tips and tricks for handling difficult delivery situations,” she said.

Additional sessions include a presentation by Iowa State cow calf specialist Randie Culbertson on improving rebreeding success. Lundy-Woolfolk will also lead a session focused on pre and post calving nutrition, helping producers understand how feeding strategies impact cow and calf health.

Attendance is limited to 50 participants to ensure quality hands on learning, and preregistration is required. Thanks to sponsorship from Boehringer Ingelheim, ISU Extension and Outreach Crawford County, and Blazin’ “B” Ranch, the clinic is offered at no cost. A light meal will be served at 5 p.m.

Producers must register by Feb. 17 by contacting the ISU Extension and Outreach Crawford County office at 712-263-4697.

Photo Credit: iowa-state-university