By Andi Anderson
The Cornbelt Cow-Calf Conference, known as Iowa’s leading educational event for the cow-calf sector, will celebrate its 54th year on January 23–24, 2026.
The Bridge View Center in Ottumwa will once again host the event. Admission will continue to be free for all attendees, thanks to support from agriculture industry vendors participating in the trade show.
Patrick Wall, beef field specialist with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach and CCCC program coordinator, said the popular Friday trade show will return, along with the well-loved “Taste the Difference” cookoff. “Two products of the same cut will be prepared identically, and attendees can choose which one their taste buds prefer. The winner and the source of each cut will be revealed at the conclusion of the event. Visit with vendors, eat free beef and enjoy good company!”
On Saturday morning, the program will begin with an important animal health topic. “Saturday morning will kick off with a topic that caused a lot of anxiety among cattle producers in southeast Iowa this year,” Wall said. “Dr. Matt Brewer from the ISU College of Veterinary Medicine will speak about Asian Long-Horn Tick and New World Screwworm.”
The educational sessions will then move into cattle production topics. Matt Spangle from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln will discuss the challenges between maternal and terminal traits, followed by the keynote address. Wall shared his enthusiasm for the speaker, saying, “Our keynote speaker couldn’t be more timely. I’m excited to hear what Cassandra Fish has to say about the current state of the industry, drawing from her experience at Tyson Foods.”
Afternoon breakout sessions will cover several important issues for producers. Cassandra Fish will return to discuss beef imports and how the industry uses them.
Farm management specialist Paul Martin and Wall will guide aging producers on transitioning their operations to the next generation, especially during strong markets.
Doug Ruth of Country Roads Meat Market will explain how he markets local beef, and producer Rob Wonderlich will introduce Rubia Gallega, the newest beef breed in the U.S., known for high marbling and strong performance.
Doors will be open from 3 to 7 p.m. on Friday and from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, with the main educational program beginning at 9 a.m. The event is open to the public and free to attend. More details can be found on the conference website.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-baranozdemir
Categories: Iowa, Livestock, Beef Cattle