Learn Successful Calf Management at Women in Dairy's March Meeting

Calves are the future of every dairy operation, said University of Missouri Extension dairy specialist Reagan Bluel.

“Successfully raising a calf through the first year of life will ensure a more productive animal while conserving cost of production,” Bluel said.

Bluel has teamed up with veterinarian Max Thornsberry to present information about successful calf management to the Women in Dairy group. The free event is 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Wednesday, March 13, at the MU Extension Center in Laclede County, 186-D N. Adams Ave., Lebanon.

“Dr. Thornsberry will address the big pitfalls to calf rearing that he’s identified in his years of experience,” Bluel said. “There will be time at the end for producers to bring questions specific to their operation.”

“I’m on the ninth edition of Dairy Calf Production Protocol, a comprehensive textbook that serves as a resource for producers,” said Thornsberry. “Over the years, each new edition is updated with the latest research-based calf protocols.”

A textbook will be provided to every family preregistered for the event.

Preregister at https://www.cvent.com/d/1qq7fn/4W or call 417-847-3161 to reserve a copy.

The meeting will begin with lunch and the educational program at noon. This event is open to the public.

Women in Dairy is an MU Extension Dairy Team program that began in 2015. Members meet on the second Wednesday of every month to develop professionally and build relationships with other female dairy operators, Bluel said.