K-State experts offer advice on optimizing body condition scores in the herd before calving MANHATTAN, Kan. — In the midst of the holiday season and the increased access to sweets, many people may be observing a less than ideal change in their personal body conditions. While people may strive for a skinnier physique, holding a thin body condition over the winter may create deficits for cattle heading into calving season, said the experts…
Popular event supports women in agriculture MANHATTAN, Kan. – A yearly conference that provides knowledge and support to women in agriculture has announced that its 2021 event will be held online. Women Managing the Farm will be held virtually Feb. 10-12. Organizers say the format – like many other events brought about by the uncertainties of the COVID-19 pandemic – will continue to offer a supportive setting for women to develop the skills,…
K-State team eyes facial recognition technology for cattle https://youtu.be/9gRNf8W-yN8 New technology being developed at Kansas State University will capitalize on the power of artificial intelligence to build a database of facial recognition technology for the cattle industry. Just like humans, each cow in a herd has a set of unique facial features that modern technology can scan and later use to track the animal throughout its life. In this video, K-State animal scientist…
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.…
Cattle producers should understand their objective for having cattle in order to make a profit for the business. (K-State Research and Extension file photo) K-State beef cattle expert discuss factors for business success MANHATTAN, Kan. -- If a business wants to keep its doors open, it has to make a profit. Similarly, cattle operations must turn a profit, according to the experts at the Kansas State University Beef Cattle Institute. To that point, agricultural…
Kansas State University research looking into the efficacy of alternative prescribed burning dates of the Flint Hills looks promising. | Download this photo. K-State scientist: ‘We have only begun to tap the potential’ MANHATTAN, Kan. – For years, ranchers on the High Plains have used controlled burning, traditionally during the spring, to impede the growth of invasive plants on rangelands. In many ways, it’s been effective. The practice helps control weedy plants that rob…
Five year study is funded by the National Science Foundation MANHATTAN, Kan. – Researchers at four U.S. universities have embarked on a five-year study that capitalizes on one of the Central Plains’ most abundant natural resources – wind – to store energy in ammonia. They say their work – which is funded by the National Science Foundation – could help stunt the population drain that is common in many rural communities by tying…
Kansas State University researchers are involved in a U.S. Department of Agriculture-funded project to protect meat plant workers and their surrounding communities from the spread of COVID-19. In this video, animal sciences professor Randy Phebus talks about the work that includes key partnerships between faculty in the College of Agriculture and the College of Veterinary Medicine. “Primarily we are focusing our efforts on giving the meat and poultry processing industry tools and knowledge that…
Christmas tree farms provide an opportunity for family bonding -- as well as a hunt for the 'perfect' tree. Buying a live tree supports local economies, good for the environment MANHATTAN, Kan. – During a year when many activities are limited or prohibited due to the COVID-19 pandemic, shopping for a Christmas tree is not one of them. In fact, David Bruton – the utilization and marketing forester with the Kansas Forest Service – said…
K-State beef cattle experts say post-weaning sale weight isn’t the only factor in the equation MANHATTAN, Kan. — Experts at the Beef Cattle Institute say an animal’s performance at sale time is often considered the test for the outcome of breeding decisions, but it is only a small consideration in measuring genetic success. Brad White, veterinarian and BCI director, laid out the following scenario to kick off a recent Cattle Chat podcast about evaluating the…