By Sara Brown
Wednesday was a busy day at the 2010 Cattle Industry Convention in San Antonio. Here are a few highlights:
Cattlemen's College:
Colin Woodall, NCBA Executive Director, Legislative Affairs, headlined an early session and talked about government issues that will be affecting cattlemen this year. More
Larry Redman, Texas AgriLife Extension specialist, says it’s the little things that count in cattle production—forage management and stocking rates. Producers need to get a soil test to determine the right about of fertilizer to apply, consider their forage base and how to best utilize native forages, and control weeds and brush. “A rule of thumb to remember: If you can see the hooves of the cattle, the forage is too short,” he says. Overstocking rates adversely affects forage productivity, animal performance, profitability of the operation and the environment.
Jennifer Johnson and JD Radakovich, King Ranch Institute for Ranch Management, discussed how cow size, and finding the right genetics for your operation is key to efficiency.
Troy Hadrick, Advocates for Ag, talked about blogging and using other social media to educate others about agriculture.
Opening Session: Key speaker Christopher Gardner gave convention attendees a chance to relax, and handed out signed copies of his book, Start Where You Are, Life Lessons in the Pursuit of Happiness.
The trade show opened with great influx of new products and educational demonstrations.
