Extension Offers Mid-Plains BEEF session on winter drought management tips for cow herds

University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension's Mid-Plains BEEF Educational Series will conduct a special session on winter drought management tips for cow herds Nov. 29 at UNL's Agricultural Research and Development Center near Mead.

The session will draw on the expertise of Rick Rasby, UNL Extension beef specialist, Richard Randle, DVM and UNL extension beef veterinarian, and Lindsay Chichester, Jessica Jones, Sara Ellicott, Monte Stauffer and Steve Tonn, extension educators, to share their beef cattle expertise with participants.

The program is designed for producers, veterinarians or others involved in the beef industry. This special session will deal with tips on managing the cow herd during the winter to reduce the effects of the drought. Participants will learn more about tips to manage and feed drought affected forages, stretching short forage supplies, using alternative feedstuffs, hay feeding methods and reducing feeding losses, nitrate poisoning symptoms and managing respiratory problems with drylotting cows and calves. Time will also be allotted to visit with the speakers on an individual or small group basis.

The session will begin at 9 a.m. and end at 4 p.m.

Registration of $60 is requested by Nov. 21 and includes educational materials, noon meals and breaks.

The Mid-Plains BEEF Educational Series is an effort by a team of southeastern Nebraska Extension educators.

To register or obtain more information, contact them at: Lindsay Chichester, Richardson County, 402-245-4324; Sara Ellicott, Saunders County, 402-624-8030; Jessica Jones, Johnson County, 402-335-3669; Darci McGee, Nuckolls/Thayer Counties, 402-768-7212 or 402-225-2381; Monte Stauffer, Douglas/Sarpy Counties, 402-444-7804; or Steve Tonn, Washington County, 402-426-9455.