K-State to host four events around Kansas focused on providing tips to help producer prepare for calving season.  

MANHATTAN, Kan. – In anticipation of calving season, Kansas State University Animal Sciences and Industry and K-State Research and Extension are planning a series of calving schools throughout the month of January. 

The program will outline overall calving management that includes stages of the normal calving process as well as tips to handle difficult calving situations. A.J. Tarpoff, K-State extension beef veterinarian, explains the goals of the event are to increase knowledge, practical skills and the number of live calves born if they need assistance.  

Speakers will also share tips on when and how to intervene to assist the cow and how those times may be different when dealing with young heifers. Presenters will also demonstrate proper use of calving equipment on a life-size cow and calf model. 

“Our goal is for producers to leave better prepared for calving season,” Tarpoff adds. “We will discuss timelines on when to examine cows for calving problems, and when to call your vet for help if things are not going well. It’s an excellent program regardless of experience level.” 

He adds several of the meetings will also cover topics such as body condition scoring (BCS) cows, colostrum management, and animal health product storage and handling.  

Meetings scheduled include: 

• Wednesday, Jan. 6, Emporia, Kansas. For more information, email Brian Rees, Lyon County Extension, at brees@k-state.edu. 

• Monday, Jan. 11, Winfield, Kansas. For more information, email Kelsey Nordyke, Cowley County Extension, at holcombk@ksu.edu. 

• Wednesday, Jan. 13, Blue Rapids, Kansas. For more information, email Anastasia Johnson Meyer, Marshall County Extension, at anastasia@ksu.edu. 

• Thursday, Jan. 21, Dodge City, Kansas. For more information, email Andrea Burns, Ford County Extension, at aburns@ksu.edu. 

More details about the calving schools will be posted to KSUBeef.orgas it becomes available.