To aid in the pursuit, UT's Plateau Experiment Station in Crossville will host a Beef Profitability Field Day on May 17. The field day will provide an opportunity for UT scientists to meet with beef cattle producers to share research results that have the potential to help producers improve their forages - the heart of any beef cattle operation. The field day begins with registration at 8 a.m. and is free to the public. Because efficient forages play such an important role in beef operations, speakers at this year's event will address a number of topics related to forages as well as other aspects of beef cattle operations.
Forages can be a determining factor in how well cattle reproduce.
Dr. Neal Schrick, a leading researcher in animal physiology and a lead team member instrumental in the work that culminated in UT's Jersey clone Millie , will discuss the effects of poor versus good forage on the reproductive cycle. Two sessions are scheduled that will provide information on determining hay quality and the effects of maturity on hay quality. Also slated for the day are sessions on pasture weed control and a discussion on whether aeration in tall fescue fields increases yield. An added feature to the event will be a presentation on alternative livestock watering systems and how adopting a new system can improve an operation's efficiency. Industry exhibits, demonstrations of hay equipment, and an overall tour of the station's beef herd are also part of the program.