LANCASTER, Pa. — The 2017 Lancaster Cattle Feeders Day is on the books for Feb. 7 at the Farm and Home Center with a full slate of speakers to discuss economic outlook, regulations, feedlot profitability and an update on a Holstein Dairy Beef Project.
“The cattle feeders planning committee felt that the topic of matching harvest methods to feedlot profitability was especially pertinent to producers in the Lancaster area,” said Cheryl Fairbairn, PSU Animal Science Educator.
“These producers are facing a downturn in fed cattle prices along with cheap feed sources. Every increase in feedlot efficiency combined with good decision making in crop harvesting to increase that efficiency means increased dollars for any operation.”
Consequently, organizers of Cattle Feeders Day contacted Dr. Alfredo DiCostanzo, University of Minnesota Beef Nutrition and Management Specialist, who will be the keynote speaker for the day.
His presentation, “Choice of Corn Crop Endpoint and Feedlot Profitability,” will help producers to see the link between harvesting choices and feedlot profitability. Nutrition and management factors affecting the economic efficiency of feedlot operations is a particular research interest of DiCostanzo.
Additionally, David Swartz, Penn State, will discuss the latest update on ag commodity production and price forecasts for 2017, along with his view of international trade prospects.
Later Colin Woodall, senior vice president of government affairs, NCBA, will discuss government regulations and how they will affect cattle operations.
After lunch Dr. Tara Felix, PSU Extension Beef Specialist, will present statistics from the Holstein Dairy Beef Project conducted last year at the Livestock Evaluation Center. She will also present implant information.
After industry updates, the day will conclude at 1:30 p.m. with lunch.
Registration opens at 8:30 a.m. with the first seminar beginning at 9:15 a.m. Registration fee this year is $15 whether or not the participant stays for lunch. Register by Feb. 3 online at http://extension.psu.edu/animals/beef/events or by phone to 717-394-6851. Walk-in registration will also be accepted.
The Lancaster Farm and Home Center is located at 1383 Arcadia Road in Lancaster.
— PA Beef Producers