By Andi Anderson
Cattle producers in southwest Iowa will have an opportunity to strengthen their management skills through the upcoming Boots in the Barn workshop series. Organized by the Iowa Beef Center at Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, the program is designed to provide practical education on key areas of cattle production and farm management.
The four-session series will take place on Nov. 17 and 24 and Dec. 1 and 8 at the Lakin Community Center in Malvern, Iowa. Each session will include a meal followed by educational presentations, hands-on learning activities, and open discussions with agricultural specialists and veterinarians.
The program aims to help cattle producers make informed decisions that improve profitability, efficiency, and livestock performance. Participants will have the opportunity to interact directly with industry experts and fellow producers while exploring real-world solutions to common challenges in cattle operations.
Erika Lundy-Woolfolk, beef field specialist with ISU Extension and Outreach, emphasized the importance of careful planning in today’s cattle industry.
“With cattle numbers at historic lows, producers have a real opportunity to capitalize on the high beef prices, but there is also little room for error," said Lundy-Woolfolk. "Having a game plan in place for things like herd health, pasture management and marketing strategies all affect the bottom line. Boots in the Barn brings together specialists, veterinarians and fellow producers in an open setting where people can ask questions and take home ideas they can put to work right away.”
Each workshop session will focus on a specific topic that affects cattle operations. Feedlot management will be presented by Kristi Drake, feedyard manager at Balance4Ward. Farm management strategies will be discussed by Tim Christensen, farm management specialist with ISU Extension and Outreach. Pasture management practices will be covered by Aaron Saeugling, field agronomist with ISU Extension and Outreach. The final session will focus on herd health and will be led by specialists from Fremont County Veterinary Clinic.
The workshop series is designed to help producers better understand livestock care, pasture productivity, business planning, and operational efficiency. These areas play an essential role in maintaining successful and profitable cattle enterprises.
Registration is required for participation. Producers may enroll in individual sessions or register for the complete series. The program offers a cost-saving option for attendees who participate in all four workshops. Registration closes one week before each session.
The Boots in the Barn series is being offered through Iowa State University Extension and Outreach offices in Fremont, Mills, Montgomery, and Page counties. Support for the program is provided by the Mills-Montgomery County Cattlemen and Boehringer Ingelheim.
As cattle producers continue to adapt to changing market conditions and industry challenges, educational programs like Boots in the Barn provide valuable opportunities to gain practical knowledge, improve management practices, and connect with agricultural experts. Through hands-on learning and expert guidance, participants can develop strategies that support herd health, operational success, and long-term profitability.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-sstajic
Categories: Iowa, Education