Maximizing the use of grazing resources to reduce feed costs will highlight the topics to be addressed on Tuesday, Aug. 19 during a field day at ML Ranch near Peru.

The operation, owned by Mike and Libby Long, revolves around a backgrounding and stocker business, with some beef cows as well. This will be the first of three ranch management field days presented by the Kansas Livestock Association (KLA) and Kansas State University.

The cost of feeding and carrying a beef cow for one year is the most significant expense item for cow-calf producers. Dry-lotting cows or hauling feed while native grass is dormant is considerably more costly than previous years. K-State animal nutritionist KC Olson will provide several suggestions on how producers might be able to reduce input costs, including stretching out the grazing season and matching calving dates with available grazing resources.

Natural Resources Conservation Service technician David Criger and K-State watershed specialist Warren Bell will give a presentation on state and federal cost-share programs available to assist producers in designing and developing stockwatering systems. Alternatives to be discussed include piping to stock tanks, spring development, pit ponds and use of pond water for supplying alternative sites.

Another educational session will focus on the “Locate in 48” program. Premises registration for the National Animal Identification System is a voluntary program, but producers all across the U.S. are helping the industry prepare for an emergency disease outbreak. The program is designed to encourage producers to register their premises, which would allow animal health officials to conduct more efficient, timely and cost-effective disease traceback. KLA Director of Feedlot Services Clayton Huseman and KLA Stockgrowers Council Chair Beth Patterson, Yates Center, will discuss why and how producers should register their premises.

Attendees also will hear from K-State veterinarian Larry Hollis about the effects of water quality and animal health products on cattle health and beef quality. Hollis will provide an overview of commonly found water quality problems in Kansas and tips on how to avoid these issues, which can cause producers considerable problems. He also will discuss why the proper handling and use of pharmaceutical products is vital for good beef quality and consumer satisfaction.

The Peru field day will begin with registration at 3:30 p.m. and conclude with a free beef dinner at 6:45 p.m. All livestock producers and others involved in the business are invited to attend.

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