Winter Cattle Seminar: A Partnership with Local Cattlemen's Association
Animal Science
Jennifer Bearden
Agriculture Agent
UF/IFAS
Crestview
Abstract
Background: UF/ IFAS Extension Agents in Okaloosa and Walton counties collaborate closely with the Panhandle Cattlemen’s Association (PCA), to support producer education and engagement. Together, they identify priority needs, manage outreach through the PCA Facebook page (1000 followers) and coordinate annual programming for regional cattle producers. Objectives: Provide relevant research-based education to 50 cattle producers on best management practices (BMP). 20% of the participants will adopt recommended practices measured through post-educational surveys and follow-up tracking of adopted production practices. Increase membership in the Panhandle Cattlemen’s Association, measured by new memberships collected at the winter meeting and in the period immediately following the event. Methods: Extension agents collaborated with the Panhandle Cattlemen’s Association Board to set the event date and identify priority educational topics of forage varieties, soil testing, fertilization, and an update on New World Screwworm. Agents managed logistics, secured sponsors, reserved the venue, coordinated speakers, and purchased meal supplies. The PCA board contributed by funding local advertising, preparing and serving the meal, and assisting with facility setup. Results/Impacts: Fifty-four cattlemen attended the meeting. Thirty-four completing post-event surveys measuring knowledge gain and practice changes. Respondents reported increased knowledge across all educational topics. Among 2024 participants, 92% adopted at least one BMP related to beef production, and 85% noted resulting financial improvement. The Panhandle Cattlemen’s Association gained six new members and raised over $2,200 for its scholarship fund. Conclusions: The Winter Cattle Seminar demonstrated the value of coordinated regional Extension efforts and strong partnerships with local producer organizations. By aligning educational programming with producer needs, the seminar effectively supported knowledge gain, practice adoption, and overall cattle industry sustainability in the Florida Panhandle.
Authors: Jennifer Bearden, Amanda Masholie
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Jennifer Bearden Agriculture Agent, University of Florida, Florida, 32539
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Amanda Masholie Agriculture Agent, University of Florida, Florida, 32433