Rebuilding the Beef Herd program set Sept. 25 at Camp Cooley Ranch

Writer: Blair Fannin, 979-845-2259, b-fannin@tamu.edu

Contact: Ed Schneider, 979-828-1112, robertson-tx@tamu.edu

FRANKLIN – Brazos Valley cattle producers considering rebuilding cowherds will have a unique opportunity to hear a comprehensive economic analysis as well tips on developing a sound restocking plan Sept. 25 at Camp Cooley Ranch, according to organizers.

The ranch is located at 4297 Camp Cooley Ranch Road in Franklin.

Rebuilding the Beef Herd: Planning to Capture the Opportunities will be held from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. and is open to beef cattle producers throughout the Brazos Valley, said Ed Schneider, AgriLife Extension agent for Robertson County. The program will feature a number of Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service beef cattle specialists discussing cattle market outlook, forage and stocking management, replacement cow/heifer options, resource use and leased grazing considerations. A tour of Camp Cooley Ranch is also scheduled.

“Cattle prices are charting at record highs and there are many beef producers considering restocking options,” Schneider said. “However, there are still economic challenges such as high input costs, land use and return on investment when buying cows or replacement heifers. Those with serious intent to enter, rebuild or expand their beef operation need to have a sound plan.”

Cost is $25 and includes lunch, program materials and breaks. For meal count purposes, preregistration is requested by calling 979-828-4270. Payment may be made at time of arrival. A number of agribusiness  booths will be exhibited, and door prizes will be given throughout the day, Schneider said.

Speakers from AgriLife Extension will be Drs. Ron Gill, Jason Cleere and Larry Redmon, all from College Station. Stan Bevers, AgriLife Extension economist, Vernon, will also be presenting. The group will rotate on discussion topics and attendee participation is encouraged, Schneider said.

Topics include:

– Beef–Better (and Different). This discussion will look at demand vs. supply and the future of beef.

– Forage Recovery, Pasture Restocking and Weed Management.This presentation will focus on the art and science of balancing grazing pasture and forage supply, and battling the never ending supply of weeds.

– Evaluating Replacement Options. This presentation will feature discussion on the type of cows that fit the right environment as well as marketing considerations.

– Can a $3,000 Cow Break Even?This presentation will evaluate breakeven costs for a variety of price ranges for purchased females.

– Flexibility in Resource Use.This presentation will look at flexible grazing options utilizing existing forage resources and replacement female options. Insuring forage as a management tool will also be discussed.

– Leased grazing – What, Why and How. This discussion will focus on the key elements of a successful lease. They include resource inventory, lease expectations, structure, arrangement, tenure and documentation.

For more information about the program, call 979-828-4270, or visit the AgriLife Extension for Robertson County Facebook page at http://on.fb.me/1qJGc2e.

Participating program counties include Brazos, Burleson, Madison, Leon, Limestone, Freestone, Falls, Milam and Robertson.

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