Those in the beef industry know calving management is critical to production and profitability of the cow herd. Knowing how to prepare, what to do and not do, and when to take action all are critical aspects of correctly managing calving in your herd. That’s why the Iowa Beef Center and Iowa State University Extension and Outreach developed the online Calving Management Manual.

Weather related announcement: the BQA session rescheduled for Wed., Feb. 19, in Cascade has been moved to the Cascade Knights of Columbus Hall. Time is the same 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Please preregister by calling Cascade Livestock Auction at 563-852-3533.

All hay producers in the region are invited to attend the 40th annual Eastern Iowa Hay Producers Association Annual Meeting and Conference on March 20 at Buzzy’s in Welton. This year’s program will feature two newer Iowa State University staff: Dr. Shelby Gruss, assistant professor in forage extension, and Madelynn Wuestenberg, agricultural climatology extension specialist.

Beef producers are invited to attend an Iowa State University Extension program to learn about estrus synchronization and artificial insemination. ISU extension beef specialist Chris Clark said this session will include basic information about estrus synchronization strategies and the use of artificial insemination of beef cows.

Feedlot producers should plan to attend the 2025 Dairy Beef Short Course on March 25 in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. This year’s program features unique aspects of managing dairy-beef crossbreds such as implants, vaccinations, early calf nutrition, and feedlot economics. Iowa State University extension beef specialist Beth Doran said that while dairy-beef crossbreds differ from straight-bred beef cattle, they have some positive aspects.

The 2025 Iowa Forage and Grassland Council annual conference is set for Feb. 3 in Ames. The event will be held at Reiman Gardens, 1407 University Blvd., just to the southwest of Jack Trice Stadium. After a number of years of drought conditions across the state, this year’s conference is focused on improving forage productivity and exploring alternative options that best meet your production goals. 

If you'll need to update your Beef Quality Assurance certification in January, Iowa Beef Center and Iowa State University Extension and Outreach have you covered. ISU extension beef specialist Denise Schwab said these six BQA dates and locations are scheduled in various areas of the state and are for both initial certification and recertification.

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