Texas:
Ranching Demonstrations Planned
AgFax.Com
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College Station (June 9, 2009) – Brush
control, cattle handling techniques, corral design and cattle-selection
principles will be featured at the Texas A&M Beef Cattle Short Course
scheduled Aug. 3-5 in College Station.
 "Each
year, the last day of the short course is devoted to demonstrations that
involve basic ranch management practices as well as new and innovative
techniques,” said Dr. Jason Cleere, Texas AgriLife Extension beef cattle
specialist and conference coordinator. “These sessions provide participants
with a hands-on perspective so that they can return to the ranch and apply
them to their beef cattle operations.”
Scheduled demonstrations on Aug. 5 include brush
management techniques, cattle handling and pen design, carcass quality,
chute-side manners, cattle selection, business management and a tour of
Texas A&M’s College of Veterinary Medicine. Registrants can also receive
training to earn a private pesticide applicator's license.
“Much of the state is currently experiencing drought
conditions or is recovering,” Cleere said. “Several of the 20 different
cattleman’s college sessions at the short course will address these
conditions.”
Weeds and brush normally thrive during these periods,
Cleere said, and the brush management demonstration scheduled Aug. 5 will
address weed identification, control options, and herbicide application
techniques.
“Getting cattle bred during or after a drought can be
difficult,” he said. “One of our sessions will discuss getting cows bred
during tough times. The focus will be on practical management options that
ranchers can use during stressful times on the ranch.”
In addition to beef-production information, participants
will have an opportunity to receive at least seven pesticide continuing
education units, veterinary continuing education credits and Texas Beef
Quality Producer credits.
Short course registration is $140 per person, and
includes educational materials, a copy of the 600-page proceedings, trade
show admittance, admission to the prime rib dinner, meals and daily
refreshments.
Registration information and a tentative schedule will
be mailed to previous participants in June. Online registration and more
information about the short course can be found at
http://beef.tamu.edu or
by calling Cleere at 979-845-6931.
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