Feedlot Forum 2013 Focuses on New Issues and Information

SIOUX CENTER, Iowa —The Feedlot Forum 2013 focuses on all things new, beginning with a new location. Beth Doran, beef program specialist with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, said the forum will be held on Jan. 22 from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Terrace View Event Center just south of Sioux Center off Highway 75.

“There are a variety of new beef issues – animal welfare audits, new feed processing methods, global trade and formula pricing – facing feedlot producers in 2013,” Doran said.  “We also will see new developments in environmental inspections and age and source verification programs.”

Keynote speaker for the program is Andrew Gottschalk, owner of HedgersEdge.com LLC and senior vice president of RJ O’Brien and Associates. In his presentation, “Beyond Our Borders,” he’ll talk about market outlook and global demand for U.S. beef.

“As a long-time market analyst and second generation family member involved in beef cattle and grain production, he has personally experienced the huge transition in the beef industry,” Doran said. “Attendees will benefit from that knowledge.”

Other speakers and their topics include Stephen Pollard with EPA Region 7 AFO/CAFO inspection program; Doug Bear of Iowa Beef Industry Council and Kellie Carolan of Iowa Cattlemen’s Association, Beef Quality Assurance program and age/source verification; and Iowa Beef Center director Dan Loy, alkali treatment of corn stover to improve digestibility.

The event also includes a trade show featuring the latest in facilities, pharmaceuticals, nutritional products, consulting services and agricultural lending. A flyer with registration form is available on the IBC website.

Registration is $25 per person, which includes the noon meal and is due Jan. 16 at the Sioux County Extension Office. For more information, contact Doran at 712-737-4230 or e-mail doranb@iastate.edu.

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