As Cow calf and feedlot operators continue to deal with issues related to the drought this past summer, ISU Extension and the Iowa Beef Center have been and will continue to offer a series of educational opportunities to address these issues. On Tuesday, November 27th, Cass County Extension will host the meeting “Drought – A Game Changer for Beef Operations- Strategies to Move Forward”. The meeting will be held at the Cass County Community Center from 6:30 to 9:00 PM.

Extension Beef Field Specialist Chris Clark says “These fall meetings will focus on managing feed costs and alternative feeds for winter feeding of the cow herd or feedlot. Developing feeding programs that utilize available feeds and keep feed costs in check is the goal.”  With corn costs relatively high, producers are searching for ways to reduce corn use but still maintain performance. Chemically treating lower quality forages and supplementing the forage or drought stressed corn silage will be a part of the discussion as well.

A situation update on beef outlook, current beef supply and demand, and feed price outlook will also be provided by Lee Schulz, ISU Extension Livestock Economist via a recorded presentation. A short update on precipitation outlook from Dr. Elwynn Taylor will be shared via a recorded presentation as well. The meetings will also give an introduction to planning for the next year and beyond for beef producers and highlight factors producers should be considering. Additional meetings are being considered for later in the winter.

Topics for the meetings will be determined as the weather and economic situation develop. There will be a $10 per person fee for this meeting to cover refreshments and other costs. Pre-registration is encouraged but not required. Contact the Cass County Extension office to register by calling (712) 243-1132 or emailing xcass@iastate.edu. Contact your local extension office, regional beef field specialist, or the Iowa Cattlemen’s Association for more information. Additional dates and locations are scheduled in Southwest Iowa earlier in November. More information on those can be found on the Iowa Beef Center website, www.iowabeefcenter.org, or by calling the Cass County Extension Office.