Barry County Soil And Crops Conference, Jan. 30, Focuses On Cattle Leasing

CASSVILLE, MISSOURI

University of Missouri Extension will host the 95th Barry County Soil and Crops Conference 6-9:15 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 30, at First Christian Church in Cassville.

“Over the past two years we’ve seen a massive reduction in the regional cow herd due to drought limitations,” said MU Extension dairy specialist Reagan Bluel. “This spring, acres will be ready to receive cattle, but in many cases there isn’t the working capital there to reinvest. Leasing cattle could generate a profit on those acres, affording the opportunity to reinvest in the future. For some, leasing also provides flexibility by minimizing the long-term commitment of running cattle year-round.”

Gary Schad, Jeff Schoen and John Wheeler will serve on a panel of producers with years of combined experience on leasing. They will share helpful advice with navigating leasing arrangements, Bluel said.

Jennifer Lutes, an MU Extension ag business specialist, will then present “Cattle Leasing Options.” MU Extension agronomist Tim Schnakenberg will make recommendations on calculating stocking rates to maximize cattle leasing options without running out of ground.

Just in time for spring calving, Chez Kleeman with USDA will round out the evening by presenting “How To Protect Your Calf Crop From Black Vultures.”

“The planning committee had your farm’s bottom line in mind when planning the 2024 conference,” said Bluel. “We hope you’ll reserve your spot and bring a friend to this in-person educational event.”

Preregistration is $5 per person. Walk-ins welcomed for $7 per person. To preregister, go to https://extension.missouri.edu/events/barry-county-soil-crops-conference or call 417-847-3161.

First Christian Church is at 905 Old Exeter Road, Cassville. ∆