Beef improvement meeting in Oklahoma has tips for Missouri cow herd owners, says MU specialist

COLUMBIA, Mo.–Missouri producers interested in quality beef can attend a nearby national meeting. If they sign up by April 15, they get the early-bird rate, says a University of Missouri Extension geneticist.

The Beef Improvement Federation (BIF) meets in Oklahoma City, June 12-15. “It’s where researchers, producers and industry leaders meet to discuss discoveries in beef production,” says Jared Decker of the MU Extension beef team.

The theme is “Where Profit and Progress Intersect.” A major topic will be the crossbreeding vs. straight-breeding debate.

New genetic tools are available that aid production of quality beef. Producers will hear various sides of all issues.

MU beef reproduction specialist Dave Patterson will present results of research on breeding protocols. Those were developed and tested at the MU Thompson Farm, Spickard.

“It’s a chance to hear the latest in beef cattle breeding and genetics,” Decker says.

Decker is organizing an in-service training at the event for MU Extension regional livestock specialists. They work with producers improving herds to make quality beef.

It’s where ranchers discuss timely topics facing the industry, Decker says.

The main program is June 13-14. Other events and ranch tours surround the meeting at the Renaissance Hotel and Convention Center in Oklahoma City.

There will be more than serious science. The group visits the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum the evening of June 13. Entertainment includes the Bunkhouse Band.

Producers can sign up at the BIF website: www.beefimprovement.org/convention.html. Hotel links are included.

There is one fee for all four days. However, various combinations down to one-day tickets are available. The early-fee deadline is April 15.

The event, which moves state to state, attracts a large crowd, Decker says. This year, the faculty at Oklahoma State University takes charge.

Recent meetings have been in states as far as Montana. This year the educational event is next door. Decker urges Missourians to participate.

The MU beef team is part of the College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources.