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April 7 Extension cattle conference set for ClintonOklahoma Cattle producers looking to fine-tune their herd management options should register now to attend the Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service's April 7 Western Oklahoma Spring Cattle Conference at Clinton. The conference will take place at the Ranchers and Farmers Livestock Auction, located on State Highway 183 North. Conference sign-in will begin at 9:45 a.m., with sessions starting at 10 a.m., and finishing around mid afternoon. "Participants will pick up the latest science-based information and practical tips vital to making sound management decisions, always important given the tight profit margins under which most producers operate," said Bob LeValley, Oklahoma State University Cooperative Extension area livestock specialist. There is no cost to attend. However, participants are asked to pre-register by contacting the Custer County Extension Center at 580-323-2291 to help ensure sufficient numbers of conference materials, meals and refreshments are provided. Lunch and refreshments will be provided free-of-charge to participants, thanks to support from Farm Credit Services. LeValley will lead the conference's first session on using silage for beef cattle. "There has been increased interest in using corn and sorghum silage," LeValley said. "We will be sharing many ways that silage can be used in stocker operations and also as a supplement in winter feeding programs." Mark Gregory, OSU Cooperative Extension area agronomist, and Daniel Skipper, OSU Cooperative Extension area agricultural economist, will lead a session focusing on pasture fertility and weed control. "High feed costs mean that producers need to maximize their forage base, but high fertilizer prices are making many second guess the economics of fertilizing introduced species," Gregory said. "Many are wondering if poultry litter or pasture legumes might be able to provide sound agronomic and economic management options." Glenn Selk, OSU Cooperative Extension animal reproduction specialist, will lead the morning's final session, which will explore the pros and cons of spring-calving and fall-calving seasons. "While the majority of Oklahoma cattle producers use a spring-calving season, there is a growing interest in fall calving," Selk said. "The session will focus on giving producers the tools to evaluate their choices." The effect of high grain prices on cattle markets has created new dynamics, which will be the focus of the first afternoon session. The session will be led by Derrell Peel, OSU Cooperative Extension livestock marketing specialist, who will provide the latest information on the current market situation and outlook for cattle prices. Dr. Gene Parker, OSU Cooperative Extension veterinarian, will lead the conference's final session, and will focus on spring cattle health issues and management considerations. Anyone seeking additional information about the April 7 cattle conference should contact the Custer County Extension Center at 580-323-2291. 3/24/08 Date: 3/20/08
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