As interest increases in managing beef cows in dry lot or under roof management systems, local producers and veterinarians are asking Iowa State University for information comparing different systems. To address this interest and provide timely information and expertise, Iowa State University Extension and Outreach has planned three cow facilities and management update sessions in southern Iowa.

Joe Sellers, extension beef specialist, said the sessions will be held Wednesday, Sept. 4, in Corydon; Monday, Sept. 9, in Anita; and Monday, Sept. 16, in Oskaloosa. All sessions run from 6 to 8:30 p.m. and include a meal provided by Farm Credit Services of America, the Iowa Beef Center at Iowa State and local sponsors.

“We’re bringing Iowa State faculty and staff to present a variety of informational beef cow operation topics, from feeder calf market outlook to health management concerns and recommendations,” Sellers said. “Each location will cover the same topics by the same presenters.”

Sellers and fellow extension beef specialist Christopher Clark will present comparisons of three cow management systems, including pros and cons of each. Sellers also will talk with attendees about whether they can justify building a facility for wintering and calving cows. Clark will offer cattle health management recommendations. Lee Schulz, Iowa State University ag economist, will present information on feeder calf market outlook and cow-calf business prospects.

All three sessions are offered at no charge, but pre-registrations must be made by the Friday prior to the session to be attended. Session dates, specific locations and preregistration information are as follows.

• Sept. 9, Anita, Anita Veterinary Clinic. Call Stuart-Anita Veterinary Clinics 515-523-1755 or 712-762-4193 by Friday, Sept. 6.

For more information, see the update sessions flyer on the Iowa Beef Center website at www.iowabeefcenter.org or contact Sellers at 641-203-1270 or sellers@iastate.edu.