Conference to highlight alternative winter feeds, hay production

The 95th annual Lawrence County Soils and Crops Conference will be held from 6 p.m. to 8:45 p.m., Jan. 3, 2019, at the Southwest Research Center located at 14548 State Hwy H, southwest of Mt. Vernon.

This year’s conference will focus on best ways to feed corn silage and corn stalks to beef cattle.

"The committee felt this topic is needed considering all the alternative feeds that are being used this winter. Eric Bailey, state beef cattle nutrition specialist, will be featured," said Tim Schnakenberg, an agronomy field specialist with University of Missouri Extension.

Another topic to be covered at the conference will be how to get the most out of hay production. This will include a realistic review of the economics of hay production and ways to address common production challenges of harvesting hay in the fescue belt.

A meal will be served courtesy of Mid-Missouri Bank of Mt. Vernon, Ozark Electric Cooperative, Southwest Missouri Cattlemen’s Association and the Mt. Vernon Chamber of Commerce.

There is an attendance charge of $5 to cover program costs and attendees need to preregister by Dec. 31 with the Lawrence County Extension Center. Call 417-466-3102 to reserve a meal. Space is limited so early registration insures a meal and a seat.