Feedlot schools - boost your cattle profits

By Blake Jackson

The University of Missouri Extension is launching a series of educational programs to help Missouri cattle producers feed their cattle in-state, potentially doubling the economic impact of agriculture by 2030.

These programs include two feedlot schools and a cattle feeder tour. The schools will cover essential aspects of feedlot management, from animal health and nutrition to economics and marketing. Participants will also get to tour local feedlot operations and interact with industry experts.

"We want to equip producers with the knowledge and connections they need to succeed in cattle feeding," said Eric Bailey, MU Extension state beef nutrition specialist. "This initiative can significantly benefit Missouri's agriculture sector, especially with the new American Foods Group beef packing plant opening next year."

The first feedlot school takes place July 9-10 in Boonville and focuses on feedlot performance, marketing strategies, and feedlot facility tours. The second school, led by Zac Erwin, will be held on August 29-30 in Kirksville.

On July 20, a cattle feeder tour will showcase confinement, hoop structure, and open lot feeding systems in northwestern Missouri.

These programs are crucial for producers traditionally focused on raising cow-calf herds who are interested in expanding into cattle feeding.

"There's a learning curve, but also a great opportunity, particularly for young farmers, to add value to their operations," said Mike Erwin, a cattle feeder and participant in a previous feedlot school. "The connections and knowledge gained from these programs are invaluable."

The Boonville feedlot school costs $75 and includes meals. Registration closes on July 2. The Kirksville school also costs $75 and registration details are available through the Adair County MU Extension Center. The cattle feeder tour is free but requires an RSVP by July 10.

By empowering producers and capitalizing on the new processing facility, MU Extension aims to make Missouri leading cattle feeding state.

For more information and registration for the Boonville feedlot school, contact Gene Schmitz at schmitze@missouri.edu or call the MU Extension Center in Pettis County at 660-827-0591. Registrations are due by Tuesday, July 2.

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