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Published on January 21, 2025
Douglas County to Host Livestock and Forage Conference for Enhanced Agricultural Practices in Ava, MOSource: Google Street View

The farming community in Douglas County looks forward to enhancing their cattle and crop management skills, courtesy of an upcoming conference. Slated for next Tuesday, January 28, the Douglas County Livestock and Forage Conference aims to provide expertise to local livestock producers. Tim Schnakenberg, a field specialist in agronomy with the University of Missouri Extension, is set to share insights valuable to creating more economically sustainable farming operations. As reported by the University of Missouri Extension, the event will take place at the Ava General Baptist Church located on 213 E. Webster Ave. in Ava, MO, from 6:00 to 8:30 p.m.

Among the topics, Elizabeth Picking, another field specialist from the University, will address best practices for implementing a grazing system. In the realm of animal care, Chloe Collins will guide attendees on optimizing dairy cow body condition in preparation for spring. These sessions, as Schnakenberg remarked, are designed not only to ensure the farms' economic viability but also to ensure that the public gets quality beef products.

The conference will also delve into practical solutions for building a farm capable of withstanding draught conditions, a topic Schnakenberg is prepared to discuss by advocating the use of native grasses. This advice comes at a critical time when unpredictable weather patterns have stressed the importance of resilient agricultural practices.

Interested participants are urged to preregister, which will also secure them a meal provided by local businesses. Organizations such as FCS Financial, Town & Country Bank of Ava, and Stockmens Bank of Ava have been cited as financial supporters for this event. According to the University of Missouri Extension, these collaborations highlight the community's commitment to the advancement of its agricultural practices.

For those eager to learn more about the Douglas County Livestock and Forage Conference and to register, details are available on the University of Missouri Extension's website.