By Andi Anderson
Beef producers across the Midwest will gather for the 14th annual Driftless Region Beef Conference, scheduled for January 22–23, 2026, at the Grand River Convention Center in Dubuque, Iowa. The event is organized through the cooperative efforts of university extension services in Illinois, Iowa, and Wisconsin.
This long-running conference provides practical education for cattle producers, offering research-based solutions to improve productivity and profitability. Past participants have reported an average economic return of over $10 per animal managed, highlighting the event’s value to the beef industry.
The first afternoon will feature four keynote speakers focusing on herd health, genetics, and profitability.
- Dr. Mark Hilton from Midwest Beef Cattle Consultants will discuss the importance of biosecurity in protecting herds from disease.
- Teresa Steckler from the University of Illinois will address tick migration into the upper Midwest and its impact on cattle.
- Matt Spangler from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln will share insights on genetic selection and its role in cow longevity.
- Kellie Curry-Raper from Oklahoma State University will present research on value-added feeder calf practices for maximizing returns.
The Thursday evening program includes vendor networking, dinner, and the popular bull pen panel discussion, providing producers a chance to share ideas and ask questions.
Friday’s sessions will feature breakout discussions on cow-calf management and feedlot operations. Topics include pasture recovery, reproduction techniques, silage management, risk reduction, and feeding efficiency. The conference will conclude with a market outlook from Brenda Boetel of the University of Wisconsin.
Registration is $120 per person before January 7, and $145 after. More details about sessions, lodging, and registration are available on the Driftless Region Beef Conference webpage.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-sstajic
Categories: Iowa, Livestock, Beef Cattle