By Andi Anderson
As the busy fall season of harvest and field operations unfolds, it is crucial for farmers to also focus on effective pasture and cattle management strategies.
To help farmers learn the best practices for fall management, the Iowa State University (ISU) Extension is hosting a free pasture walk at Lenth Herefords near Postville, Iowa, on October 9.
Lenth Herefords, owned and operated by Doug and Marilyn Lenth, has developed a well-regarded system of pasture management that ensures the health of their Hereford cattle herd.
The event, which begins at 1 p.m., will provide local farmers and cattlemen an opportunity to learn from the Lenths’ experience and gain insights into fall forage and cattle management techniques.
The pasture walk will feature presentations by ISU Extension and Outreach field agronomist Josh Michel, beef specialist Denise Schwab, and small ruminant outreach specialist Carolyn Ihde.
Attendees will start with a brief overview of the Lenth farm’s operations, followed by a guided tour of the pastures where the ISU Extension team will discuss practical agronomic, grazing, and cattle management strategies.
“Fall is an important time for pasture and cattle management, and this event provides a hands-on opportunity to see successful practices in action,” said Josh Michel. Participants will learn how to prepare for winter while optimizing forage availability and managing herd health.
The event will conclude by 4 p.m., allowing plenty of time for questions and discussion with the experts. While walk-ins are welcome, attendees are encouraged to preregister by October 8 to help with planning and to receive notifications in case of weather-related changes.
To register for the pasture walk, contact the ISU Extension and Outreach Clayton County office at 563-245-1451 or via email. For more information, you can reach out to Josh Michel at 563-581-7828 or Denise Schwab at 319-472-4739.
This pasture walk is a valuable opportunity for farmers and cattlemen to learn about fall management strategies that will help them enhance forage utilization, improve herd care, and better prepare their operations for the challenges of the season.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-jessicahyde
Categories: Iowa, Livestock