By Staff Report
Cattle producers and ranchers from Holmes County and surrounding areas filled the newly constructed Holmes County Agricultural Center on Tuesday, February 3, for the UF/IFAS Extension Winter Cattle Meeting, held at the George Gainer Governmental Efficiency Complex in Bonifay, FL.
The event brought together members of the local cattle industry for an evening of education, discussion, and fellowship. A steak dinner was served to a full house.
“The agriculture community has waited a long time to have a place to gather and learn. The new building gives them that in a time where our industry is facing critical pressures from every angle,” said Kalyn Waters, UF/IFAS Extension Holmes County Director.
The educational program focused on several key issues facing the cattle industry, including agricultural law and inspection requirements, herd nutrition with an emphasis on protein supplementation, and disease risks affecting cattle operations. Presenters discussed proactive strategies producers can use to safeguard herd health and maintain compliance with current regulations.
Dr. Todd Anderson of Farm and Pet Vet and Dr. Nicolas DiLorenzo of UF/IFAS Extension State Specialist were joined by Holmes County Extension Director Kalyn Waters in the educational portion of the night. Speakers sharing research-based insights and real-world experience. Topics covered included herd health, animal identification, protein supplementation and winter feeding, and biosecurity issues facing the industry.
UF/IFAS Extension Holmes County will continue to host similar meetings that offer producers valuable opportunities to ask questions, exchange ideas, and stay informed about emerging challenges and best management practices in the cattle industry.
The UF/IFAS Extension Winter Cattle Meeting is part of ongoing efforts to support and strengthen agriculture in Holmes County and the surrounding region through education and community engagement.
This article was written and submitted by Kalyn Waters, UF/IFAS Extension Holmes County
ANDREA WATERS 