2026 Fundamentals of Feeding the Cow

Fundamentals of Feeding the Cow is designed to help producers better understand the nutritional needs of beef cows and how those needs change throughout the production cycle. Participants will learn how to evaluate available feed resources, compare alternatives and develop feeding strategies that meet cow requirements while managing costs.

The series will cover four key areas:

· Understanding how a cow’s nutrient requirements change throughout the production cycle;

· Reading and interpreting feed test analyses and feed tags;

· Comparing feed options and determining the best buy; and

· Developing cost-effective, year-round feeding plans.

Nebraska Extension educators Erin Laborie, Troy Walz and Brock Ortner will lead the series. Sessions are designed to provide practical information producers can apply to their own operations, with opportunities for participants to ask questions throughout the course.

The four-session online series will be held Nov. 9, 12, 16 and 19 from 7:30 to 8:45 p.m. CT.

Registration is $65 and includes a notebook of Nebraska Extension resources. Participation is limited to 40 people, and registration is due Oct. 26.

Accommodation requests for registration or attendance may be directed to Brock Ortner at least five business days prior to the registration deadline at bortner2@unl.edu or 308-327-2312. Early requests are strongly encouraged to allow sufficient time to meet access needs.

The University of Nebraska does not discriminate based upon any protected status. https://nebraska.edu/nondiscrimination