K-State to host calving schools across Kansas

 

Programs focus on calving management, handling difficult births

 

At a glance: In anticipation of calving season, Kansas State University’s Department of Animal Sciences and Industry and Kansas State University Extension are planning a series of calving schools beginning in December and continuing through January.

More information: A.J. Tarpoff, tarpoff@ksu.edu

Related: Calving Schools: Clark County | Pawnee County | Southwind District

 

white cow and calf tied to pen railing

K-State will host a series of calving schools December through January.

Dec. 5, 2025

K-State Extension news service

MANHATTAN, Kan. – In anticipation of calving season, Kansas State University’s Department of Animal Sciences and Industry and Kansas State University Extension are planning a series of calving schools beginning in December and continuing through January.

The program will outline overall calving management that includes stages of the normal calving process, and tips to handle difficult calving situations.

A.J. Tarpoff, K-State Extension beef veterinarian, said the events aim to increase knowledge and practical skills, as well as increase the number of live calves born if they need assistance.

The schools will also share tips on when and how to intervene to assist the cow or heifer. Presenters will demonstrate proper use of calving equipment on a life-size cow and calf model.

“Our goal is for producers to leave better prepared for calving season,” Tarpoff said. “We will discuss timelines on when to examine cows for calving problems, and when to call your vet for help if things are not going well. We will also discuss calf care early in life. It’s an excellent program regardless of experience level.”

The meetings will have other timely educational topics determined by each location.

Meetings scheduled include:

  • Tuesday, Dec. 16, 5:15 p.m. Gardiner Angus Ranch Marketing Center, Ashland. RSVP to Clark County Extension office at 620-635-2811, edklein@ksu.edu.

  • Wednesday, Dec. 17, evening. J.A. Haas Building, Larned. RSVP to Pawnee County Extension office at 620-285-6901, kkgrant@ksu.edu.

  • Wednesday, Jan. 7, evening. Neosho Valley Event Center, Erie. RSVP to Southwind District at 620-365-2242, nickell99@ksu.edu.

  • Tuesday, Jan. 13, evening. Miami County Fairgrounds, Paola. RSVP to Marais des Cygnes Extension District office at 913-294-4306.

  • Thursday, Jan. 15, evening. CAB Building, Sharon Springs. RSVP to Sunflower District Extension at 785-332-3171 or Greeley County Extension at 620-376-4284.

More information and updates about the Calving Schools as well as local fliers will be available at KSUBeef.org.

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K‑State Extension is a short name for the Kansas State University Cooperative Extension Service, a program designed to generate and distribute useful knowledge for the wellbeing of Kansans. Supported by county, state, federal and private funds, the program has county extension offices statewide. Its headquarters is on the K‑State campus in Manhattan. For more information, visit www.ksre.ksu.edu. K-State Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.