What a winter we have had so far. I think many of us would like for winter set in and the ground to freeze until spring. Dealing with all the rain and mud has made things difficult.
This time of year does provide several opportunities for attending workshops and other educational programs to learn new information that can help you improve your management skills. Let’s take a look at two upcoming opportunities.
Dairying in the 21st century
The Sugarcreek Veterinary Clinic, along with Pfizer Animal Health, and OSU Extension in Tuscarawas County, will sponsor a dairy producer meeting, Dairying in the 21st Century – Can’t Do Dairy Like Mom & Dad Did It, Feb. 15 at the Dutch Valley Restaurant from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
The featured speaker, Dr. Greg Quackenbusch, will discuss “Truth and Agriculture,” a highly entertaining and inspiring talk about public concerns in the animal industry.
Other experts
In addition, several other experts will make presentations throughout the day, including: Dr. Jerry Lahmers, DVM and member of the Ohio Livestock Care Standards Board, will discuss new regulations related to animal care.
Dr. Greg Edwards of Pfizer Animal Health Dairy Veterinary Operations will present information about new bulk tank testing procedures from USDA and how this impacts dairy producers. Edwards will also review how the Enforce nasal vaccine is currently performing.
Chris Zoller, OSU Extension Educator, will discuss the characteristics of successful dairy farm managers.
A family-style lunch will be provided compliments of Sugarcreek Veterinary Clinic and Pfizer Animal Health. Reservations are requested to the Sugarcreek Veterinary Clinic no later than Feb. 13 and can be made by calling 330-852-2321.
Managing for the future
Another excellent learning opportunity is on March 14 when OSU Extension in Tuscarawas County and the Tuscarawas County Farm Bureau sponsor a workshop, “Farm Strategies for the Future, at the Dutch Valley Restaurant near Sugarcreek. Registration is at 9:30 a.m., with the program to follow from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Changes to be made
A dynamic group of specialists will discuss what changes farm managers can expect to see in the next decade and how they can adopt and implement these developments.
Presentations will include: Dr. Scott Shearer, chair of the Ohio State University Department of Food, Agricultural, and Biological Engineering, will discuss farms of the future and the emerging technology to manage these businesses.
Chris Bruynis, OSU Extension Educator, ANR, will provide an overview of the farm bill and crop insurance. He will also talk about how farmers can use these tools to minimize risk.
Dr. Jerry Lahmers will describe recent developments of the Ohio Livestock Care Standards Board and the impact on livestock producers.
Dale Arnold, Ohio Farm Bureau, will address the present and emerging energy issues and what they mean to agriculture.
Leah Finney, Ohio Farm Bureau, will provide an update on laws and regulations for roadway use by farm trucks.
Details
Contact the Tuscarawas County office of Ohio State University Extension for registration details and to make a reservation.
Enjoy the rest of the winter and make plans to attend as many learning opportunities as possible.
