Join us for the Midwest FEEDS (Forage, Education and Efficiency in Diversified Systems) Practicum, a hands-on, multi-session educational program designed to equip participants with essential skills for success in beef cattle production. This unique program leverages the competitive advantages of the Midwest, including access to perennial pastures, annual forages, cover crops, crop residues, and harvested feeds.
Program Highlights:
- Hands-On Learning Across the Production Season: Engage in practical, in-field training combined with in-depth discussions that foster knowledge exchange among participants and instructors.
- Networking and Idea Exchange: Build connections and share insights with industry peers and experts in a collaborative environment.
- High-Quality Resources: Receive software, notebooks, and curated University of Nebraska–Lincoln publications to support your learning journey.
Skills You’ll Develop:
- Decision-Making with Advanced Tools: Use decision support tools and NRC software to analyze diets, match forage availability with animal requirements, and optimize beef production.
- Forage and Grazing Strategy: Create effective grazing and pasture management plans, including weed control and fertility strategies tailored to your operation.
- Breeding, Calving, and Weaning Management: Learn best practices for breeding, calving, weaning, cattle handling, and facility design.
- Evaluating Cattle Performance: Master techniques to assess cow and calf performance, estimate condition scores, and determine nutritional needs throughout the reproductive cycle.
Cutting-Edge Research at UNL:
Experience innovative research at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s Eastern Nebraska Research and Extension Center, where you will learn firsthand about integrating cropland for forage and cow-calf systems.
Ready to elevate your expertise and drive success in your cattle operation?
https://enreec.unl.edu/extension-education-engagement/midwest-feeds-practicum/
Held across five sessions at the Eastern Nebraska Research & Extension Center, 1071 County Road G, Ithaca (near Mead), NE:
- February 28, 2026 – Health, Nutrition & Systems Thinking
- March 28, 2026 – Forage Systems & Breeding
- June 20, 2026 – Facilities & Pasture Management
- August 29, 2026 – Weaning, Culling & Winter Feeding
- December 5, 2026 – Stalk Grazing & Preparing for Calving
Cost & Registration
- $750 per individual
- $1,300 for two participants
- $500 for each additional participant
Questions?
Contact:
Connor Biehler
Email: cbiehler2@unl.edu
Phone: 402‑624‑8030
