AMES, Iowa -- Iowa State University Extension and the Iowa Beef Center sponsored three workshops for producers who were interested in starting or expanding a cattle feeding business this past winter. A total of 35 producers participated in the workshops.

Russ Euken ,Extension livestock specialist in north central Iowa, initiated the idea of the workshops. He says “With an increasing number ethanol plants in the area there is interest and opportunity for feeding cattle. However many farm operations in the area have not fed cattle for a quite a few years if at all. If they are going to start in the business and be successful, they need to do their homework and the workshop is meant to help in that process.”

A few of the topics that were covered included opportunities for cattle feeding, business planning, site selection and facilities, basic nutrition and health and marketing fed cattle.

Many of the producers that participated had cattle experience either at an earlier time or had a cow calf operation. Some had never worked with cattle. A few of the participants had existing feedlot operations. Several were working on plans for expansion or getting into the business.

This was a pilot effort and future educational opportunities will be possible. There is the possibility of some of the workshop topics being offered as a home study or Web-based topics, but there is value in having participants be together in one setting to be able to share thoughts and ideas.

Producers or others with interest in the workshops looking at a start up or expansion of a cattle feeing business can contact Russ Euken at reuken@iastate.edu or (641) 923-2856 or contact their local extension beef specialist or county office.

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