Iowa Beef Center to Host Third Annual Genetic Symposium

By Andi Anderson

The Iowa Beef Center at Iowa State University will host its Third Annual Genetic Symposium on November 19–20 in Ames, Iowa.

The event will take place at the ISU Hansen Agriculture Student Learning Center and aims to give beef producers, industry professionals, and students practical insight into the use of genetics for herd improvement.

Planned by the Iowa Beef Center and Randie Culbertson, assistant professor and cow-calf specialist with ISU Extension and Outreach, this year’s symposium will highlight the real-world applications of genetic technologies in commercial beef production.

“Hands-on demonstrations have been a crowd favorite in the past,” Culbertson said. “During this year’s rotations, participants will get to see several technologies in action, including a demonstration of tissue collection for DNA testing, targeted mating decision using RightMate, and an AI simulation model.”

The two-day event will feature classroom learning, producer panels, and demonstrations focusing on key areas such as genetic improvement tools, phenotype importance, genomics application, and updates on Expected Progeny Differences (EPDs) and genetic defects.

Attendees will also hear from leading genetic company representatives and industry experts.

Following the first day’s sessions, participants will enjoy a dinner sponsored by Zoetis and prepared by the ISU Meat Lab, along with a mock feeder cattle auction for an engaging learning experience.

Since its launch, the Genetic Symposium has drawn over 160 cattle producers from nine states, helping farms increase economic returns by an estimated $7.50 per head.

Registration for the event is $75 per person through November 13 and includes refreshments, dinner, and educational materials. Late registration, after November 13, is $85 per person. A hotel block is available at Spring Hill Suites in Ames for $99 per night, with reservations due by November 1.

The symposium begins at noon on November 19 and concludes at noon on November 20. For more information, visit the Iowa Beef Center’s website or contact the ISU Extension and Outreach office.

Photo Credit: iowa-state-university