By Scout Nelson
More than 150 livestock producers and industry stakeholders attended the Kansas Livestock Association and Kansas State University Ranch Management Field Day on August 28 in Woodson County. The event, held at Wells Ranch, featured presentations on grazing strategies, weed management, livestock health, and technology use in ranching operations.
The ranch employs an intensive rotational grazing program to support pasture rest and regrowth while also focusing on brush and weed control. Experts emphasized the importance of combining different strategies to manage invasive species like sericea lespedeza. “Defoliation, whether through grazing or mowing, herbicide treatment and prescribed burning each need to be used to get the best results,” said KC Olson, K-State cattle nutritionist. “Follow one form of treatment with a different one each year.”
A demonstration of spray drone technology showcased new tools available to ranchers. Wade Newland of Newland Ag Drones LLC explained that drones can treat about 60 acres per hour depending on field conditions, offering an efficient option for pasture management.
Animal health was also a key focus. A.J. Tarpoff, K-State beef veterinarian, shared updates on the Asian longhorned tick and the parasite Theileria orientalis. This parasite can cause theileriosis in cattle, leading to fever, weight loss, anemia, and other health issues. “Once cattle are exposed, they will remain chronic carriers and relapses of the disease can occur,” Tarpoff said. With no approved treatments available in the U.S., tick control remains the best defense, using combinations of ear tags, sprays, pour-ons, and back rubs.
Attendees also toured the ranch’s cattle handling facilities and heard about its history. Sponsored by the Farm Credit Associations of Kansas and Huvepharma, the event emphasized practical strategies for sustainable and healthy livestock management.
Photo Credit:istock-123ducu
Categories: Kansas, Education, Livestock, Beef Cattle, Dairy Cattle