Pearls of Production Conference

Pearls of Production Conference

Date: February 28, 2026

Location: Beef Research and Teaching Farm, Columbia, MO

Cost: Adults – $20 | Children (ages 5–12) – $5

Event Description:
Join us for the annual Pearls of Production Conference, designed to provide practical knowledge, hands-on learning, and networking opportunities for livestock producers.

Back this year is the Future Pearls of Agriculture Conference, a special program for children ages 5–12. Child registration is available only for children of adults participating in Pearls of Production. This addition makes it easier for parents to attend while their kids enjoy engaging agricultural activities.

Partners:
USDA NIFA | Missouri AgrAbility | Missouri Beginning Farmers and Ranchers | MFA Rural Mental Health Awareness

Contact Information:
Questions? Contact Heather Conrow, Livestock Specialist & State 4-H Animal Science Educator, and 2025 Pearls of Production Committee Chair

Email: hconrow@missouri.edu | Phone: 660-248-2272

Agenda

8:30 a.m.

Breakfast with Carey Portell

9:30 a.m.
Tips for a Successful Calving Season
Speakers: TBA

11:00 a.m. 
Choose Your Session:

• Genetics for a Better Cow – Speaker: Dr. Jamie Courter
• Small Ruminant Neonatal Care – Speaker: Dr. Pamela Adkins

12:30 p.m. 
Lunch & Learn – Show Me the Money

Speakers: TBA

1:30 p.m.

Save the Cuss Words: You Got This 2.0!
Speakers: Brenda Schreck & Karen Funkenbusch

3:00 p.m. 
Technology Showcase

• Virtual Fencing – Speaker: Kaitlyn Dozler
• Drones – Speaker: Rusty Lee and Chrisee Brandl

Address

Beef Research and Teaching Farm: 5169 Old Millers Rd, Columbia, MO 65202