By Andi Anderson
Emerging livestock innovations will take centre stage at a Nov. 13 field day near Red Oak, offering farmers and ranchers an opportunity to explore the latest in precision beef technologies.
Hosted by the Iowa Beef Center at Iowa State University and South Dakota State University Beef Extension, the event will feature demonstrations, discussions, and research updates on cutting-edge digital tools shaping the future of beef production.
ISU Extension beef field specialist Erika Woolfolk said a major attraction will be the SDSU technology trailer, which includes tools such as animal health monitoring and water management software, a feed analyzer, drones, and NoFence virtual collars.
“The trailer has animal health monitoring software, water monitoring software, a handheld feed analyzer, drones and much more,” Woolfolk explained. “Additional topics include cybersecurity awareness, precision tech research, and live demonstrations.”
Participants will also hear from Shelby Gruss, assistant professor and extension forage specialist at Iowa State, who will present updates on ISU’s research using 701x ear tags for monitoring grazing patterns and livestock behavior.
The event will be hosted by the Matt Versmeersch family at Mud Ridge Ranch and Resilient Farms, 1582 200th Street, Red Oak, running from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The Versmeersch family will demonstrate how they have successfully implemented NoFence virtual collars for over a year to manage their cow herd more efficiently.
Thanks to sponsors including the Iowa State Beef Checkoff Program, NoFence, Iowa Forage and Grassland Council, Iowa NRCS, and Halter, the event is free and includes a meal prepared by the Mills-Montgomery County Cattlemen.
To attend, participants must RSVP by Friday, Nov. 7, by calling 712-623-2592 or registering online. Guests are encouraged to dress appropriately for the weather as they explore how technology is transforming beef management—on the air, online, and on the hoof.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-sstajic
Categories: Iowa, Education, Livestock, Beef Cattle