Three-State Beef Conference focuses on boosting cow herd efficiencies

By Andi Anderson

The 2025 Three-State Beef Conference aims to support beef producers by offering practical insights on enhancing cow herd efficiencies. Scheduled from Jan. 14 to Jan. 16, the event will take place across Missouri, Iowa, and Nebraska.

Organized by Iowa State University extension specialists Erika Lundy-Woolfolk and Chris Clark, the conference aligns its content with attendee feedback and current economic trends.

This year marks the 40th anniversary of the conference, with the theme focusing on a systems approach to addressing common challenges in beef cow-calf production.

“With tight margins and a reduced national cattle inventory, our program highlights strategies for long-term success,” said Lundy-Woolfolk.

The Iowa session will occur on Jan. 15 at the Warren Cultural Center in Greenfield, following the Missouri session on Jan. 14 and preceding the Nebraska session on Jan. 16. Each event includes registration at 5:30 p.m., followed by presentations starting at 6 p.m. Iowa attendees can participate in an optional Beef Quality Assurance training from 4 to 5:30 p.m.

Key topics include the genetics of calving, presented by Randie Culbertson from Iowa State University; yearling bull management, discussed by Kacie McCarthy of the University of Nebraska; and updates on bovine pinkeye research, shared by Dr. Matt Hille from the University of Nebraska.

Pre-registration is encouraged to assist with meal planning and reduce costs. Iowa producers can register by contacting the ISU Extension and Outreach Adair County office at 641-743-8412 or emailing tlraasch@iastate.edu by Jan. 10. The $30 registration fee includes a meal and conference materials.

This event continues its legacy of providing beef producers with valuable, actionable knowledge to improve herd management and increase profitability.

Photo Credit: istock-emholk