By Scout Nelson
The 2026 Kansas Livestock Association (KLA) Young Stockmen’s Academy (YSA) completed its third seminar of the year with a three-day tour showcasing Kansas’ beef and dairy industries. Sponsored exclusively by Merck Animal Health, the program gave participants hands-on exposure to livestock production, veterinary medicine, dairy processing and emerging agricultural technologies.
The tour began at Innovative Livestock Services near Larned, where participants explored a newly constructed feedyard and learned about the planning and management required to build and operate modern cattle-feeding facilities. The visit provided insight into infrastructure investments and efficient livestock production practices.
The group then traveled to Twin Circle Dairy near Lewis, a supplier for Hilmar Cheese Company’s Dodge City processing plant. Participants observed large-scale dairy operations, including two rotary parlors, and learned how the dairy manages approximately 19,000 cows milked twice daily.
At Cross Ranch, owned by former KLA President David Cross, the class explored a cow-calf operation alongside a custom weaning and cattle-growing business. The visit highlighted practical cattle management strategies and the importance of leadership and innovation in ranching.
The second day focused on animal health and industry best practices. At Dodge City Veterinary Clinic, Tim Parks, DVM, with Merck Animal Health, led Beef Quality Assurance training and an injection-site demonstration, while veterinarian Chad Kerr shared insights from more than 25 years in practice.
Participants also visited the KLA Environmental Services office in Scott City, where they received an overview of the organization’s work. Discussions centered on environmental compliance and consulting services that support livestock producers throughout Kansas.
The tour continued at Cobalt Cattle’s feedyard in Leoti, where CEO Joel Jarnagin discussed cattle-feeding operations and guided the class through the company’s new feed mill. Participants gained a better understanding of feed production, operational efficiency and advancements in large-scale feeding systems.
Another stop included Larson Ranch, operated by YSA alumni Brady and Kyla Larson. The ranch specializes in Angus and Charolais seedstock production and has adopted Halter virtual fencing technology, giving participants a firsthand look at how technology can improve grazing management.
The seminar concluded at Hilmar Cheese Company’s Dodge City facility. Production shift manager Pablo Morales provided an overview of the plant’s operations and explained how the company’s supply chain connects dairy producers with consumers.
Organized by the Kansas Livestock Association with support from Merck Animal Health, the Young Stockmen’s Academy continues to prepare future agricultural leaders through hands-on learning and industry engagement. The class will reunite for its final session at the 2026 KLA Convention in Manhattan on November 18-20,2026.
Photo Credit: kansas-livestock-foundation
Categories: Kansas, Education, Livestock