CSIF Symposium to Focus on Calving Under Roof

02-06-2017 in Cattle

Industry experts share insight into environmental benefits, economics, cattle health and reducing feed costs

WEST DES MOINES, IOWA – February 6, 2017 – The Coalition to Support Iowa’s Farmers (CSIF) is hosting a “Calving Under Roof Symposium – Expanding the Cowherd – The Confinement Option” on March 21-22 in Omaha to provide livestock farmers an opportunity to learn about the economics of calving under roof, outline strategies to reduce feed costs, discuss cattle health considerations and participate in virtual tours of existing calving barns. The event, co-sponsored by the Alliance for the Future of Agriculture in Nebraska (AFAN), Iowa Cattlemen’s Association and the Nebraska Cattlemen, will be held at the CoCo Keys Resort Hotel in Omaha beginning at 2:00 p.m. on March 21.

“We’ve definitely seen an increased interest from farmers in placing cows under roof,” said Brian Waddingham, executive director of CSIF. “Whether it’s due to a lack of available pasture, a way to grow the herd without acquiring additional land or protection from inclement weather, farmers are wanting to learn more about this option and if it’s feasible for their farm. The symposium will provide participants with the opportunity to hear firsthand from cattle farmers that are calving under roof and help them determine if this option is right for them.”

The “Calving Under Roof Symposium” will provide unique insight from industry experts such as Dr. Morgan Hayes, from the University of Kentucky, who will discuss how to get started in cow-calf confinement production. Moe Russell, president of Russell Consultant Group, will offer insight into the financial feasibility of calving under roof today. Sarah Barber, D.V.M., from the Veterinary Medical Center will explain ways to manage herd health and offer tips on herd health protocols. Also on the agenda is Bruce Eberle with Rabo AgriFinance, who will provide attendees with a better understanding of what lenders look for when financing a cow-calf facility. Kelly Jones with Cactus Feeders, Inc., will discuss managing cows in confinement and Karla Jenkins with UNL Panhandle Research & Extension Center will give an overview of the nutritional management of confined production cows.

In addition, the symposium will feature two farmer panels where attendees will have the opportunity to hear from cattle farmers that have been successfully calving under roof as well as see virtual tours of facilities housing cows with 2017 calves at their side. Attendees will also learn how each cattle farmer manages the cattle, the facility, cattle health and nutrition.

Registration, including meals, is $35.00 if completed by March 1. Registration costs $55.00 after March 1 and registration is $65.00 at the door. For more information about the symposium call 1-800-932-2436 or register at www.supportfarmers.com. Space is limited, so register today. For a complete agenda, click here.

CSIF is a non-profit organization that assists livestock farmers who want help interpreting rules and regulations, guidance on good site locations for barns, counsel on enhancing neighbor relations and tips on how to protect the environment at no cost. For more information, call 1-800-932-2436 or visit www.supportfarmers.com.

The Coalition to Support Iowa’s Farmers was created by farmers to help farmers raise livestock responsibly and successfully. It’s a joint partnership involving the Iowa Cattlemen’s Association, Iowa Corn Growers Association, Iowa Egg Council, Iowa Farm Bureau Federation, Iowa Pork Producers Association, Iowa Soybean Association, Iowa Turkey Federation and Midwest Dairy Association.

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