K State Offers Calving Training

By Scout Nelson

Kansas State University’s Department of Animal Sciences and Industry, together with K-State Research and Extension, is offering a series of calving schools during December and January. These events support communities as they prepare for the upcoming calving season. The sessions are designed to help participants gain confidence, understand the calving process, and learn the skills needed to support healthy calves at birth.

A.J. Tarpoff, K-State extension beef veterinarian, explains that the goal of the program is to increase knowledge and improve the number of live calves born when assistance is required.

The sessions will cover each stage of normal calving and provide clear guidance for handling difficult situations. Participants will learn when to help a cow or heifer and how to recognize signs that additional support may be necessary.

The program also includes hands-on demonstrations. Presenters will show the correct use of calving equipment on a life-size cow and calf model. This training helps participants learn proper techniques in a safe environment where they can observe tools, practice skills, and ask questions.

Tarpoff emphasizes the value of the program for all experience levels, stating, “Our goal is for producers to leave better prepared for the calving season. 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 calving schools will take place at several locations across the state. Sessions are scheduled for December 16 in Ashland, December 17 in Larned, January 7 in Neosho Valley, January 13 in Paola and January 15 in Sharon Springs. More details, including start times and RSVP information, are available through K-State’s event listing.

These calving schools provide important learning opportunities for anyone involved in animal care. By sharing knowledge and demonstrating best practices, K-State supports strong confidence, safe calving environments and healthy outcomes for newborn calves.

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