By Blake Jackson
The 2024 Kentucky Beef Conference, titled "Today's Challenges, Tomorrow's Opportunities," will take place on October 24th in Lexington. The conference aims to address the pressing issues facing today's beef producers and explore advancements in the industry.
The conference will begin at 10 a.m. ET with welcome remarks from Beau Neal, Woodford County agriculture and natural resources extension agent, and Laura Stephenson, associate dean for extension at the University of Kentucky Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment.
Troy Rowan, beef genetics extension specialist from the University of Tennessee's Institute of Agriculture, will lead the morning session with a presentation on genomics technology. Troy Rowan will discuss the latest advancements in genetics and their impact on beef production.
Following the genomics session, UK beef economics extension specialist Kenny Burdine will provide an update on marketing trends and the economic outlook for beef producers. Kenny Burdine will highlight strategies to help producers navigate market shifts.
After a lunch break, ruminant veterinarian and associate professor Michelle Arnold will discuss changes and updates related to animal tagging. Michelle Arnold talk will provide information for producers regarding regulatory changes and best practices.
The afternoon will conclude with a presentation by Steve Velasco, state veterinarian with the Kentucky Department of Agriculture. Velasco will provide an update on cattle health and address current disease threats and management practices.
The conference will conclude at 2 p.m. ET, allowing attendees to network and discuss further. Attendees are asked to RSVP by October 22nd by contacting the Fayette County Extension Office at 859-257-5582.
“The Kentucky Beef Conference is a great opportunity for beef cattle producers to hear from industry experts and UK extension specialists on the marketing outlook for the upcoming year and learn about other important and timely topics,” said Linda McClanahan, Mercer County extension agent for agriculture and natural resources.
The conference will be held at the Fayette County Extension Office at 1140 Harry Sykes Way. Registration opens at 9 a.m. with a $10 fee payable at the door. Attendees are encouraged to arrive early to engage with sponsors and network before the program begins at 10 a.m.
Please contact the Fayette County Extension Office at 859-257-5582 for more information.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-imaginegolf
Categories: Kentucky, Livestock, Beef Cattle