ISU McNay Farm to Host Cow Research Field Day

Jul 30, 2024

Applied research is a core component of Extension and Outreach at Iowa State University, and the Iowa Beef Center has conducted a number of research projects in recent years that address questions and concerns of cow-calf producers. IBC will share the results of those projects at a Cow Research Field Day, Aug. 23 at Iowa State University's McNay Memorial Research and Demonstration Farm in Chariton.

The day starts at 9 a.m. with an optional farm tour highlighting some current alfalfa plots and farm facilities. The main program runs from 10:30 a.m. to noon with speakers covering a variety of recently completed or ongoing research projects regarding cow-calf and forage production.

Some of these featured research projects are:

Starch and digestible fiber-based supplementation impact on first calf heifer performance and nutrient mobilization through the production cycle.
Heifer development using carcass ultrasound as an indicator for heifer reproduction performance.
Will pour-ons affect your dung dynasty?

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Video: Selling Rams & Helping New Farmers Begin

It’s shipping day again at Ewetopia Farms as we sell another Suffolk yearling ram! In today’s episode, we load one of our Suffolk rams onto the trailer as he heads off to his new farm to sire the next generation of lambs.

This particular customer has been buying our rams for over eight years, trusting Ewetopia genetics for their gentle temperaments, strong builds, and proven performance. Back home, we get busy looking after the flock that’s staying behind. With the weather turning wet and chilly, it’s time to put down fresh, clean bedding to keep everyone cozy and comfortable for the season ahead. Later, we welcome a wonderful new family who’s just starting out in sheep farming!

They’ve chosen some of our Suffolk ewe lambs to begin their flock — and we couldn’t be happier to help them take their first steps into raising sheep. Stay tuned for a follow-up episode when we help deliver and settle their new flock at their farm.