By Scout Nelson
Keeping good records helps farmers make better choices for their livestock operations. Many farmers collect animal data but do not always use it to guide daily farm decisions. A free livestock record workshop helps producers learn how to turn simple records into useful tools that improve herd care and farm income.
The program focuses on teaching farmers how to manage digital and paper records using easy spreadsheet systems. These tools help producers track animal health, breeding results, and growth progress. By using this information, farmers can better plan feeding programs, select strong animals for breeding, and remove animals that do not meet performance goals.
Participants learn which types of information bring the most value to farm planning. The workshop explains how to record calving dates, birth weights, weaning weights, and pregnancy results. Farmers also learn how to group animals by sire or management area to see which groups perform better. This makes it easier to compare results and improve breeding plans.
Another key focus is learning how to find animals that should be removed from the herd. Records help farmers identify animals that produce weak calves, show health problems, or fail to meet growth standards. This improves herd quality and saves feed and labor costs.
The workshop also teaches farmers how to calculate simple production numbers. These include adjusted weaning weights and estimated calving dates. These numbers help farmers predict future performance and plan labor needs during calving season. Easy summary charts allow farmers to review herd results in one place.
Farm leaders explain that keeping records should not feel difficult. The goal is to make record work simple, useful, and rewarding. Farmers are encouraged to bring their own records and ask questions about their farm needs. This hands-on learning allows each participant to improve their own record system.
There is no fee to attend. The program welcomes livestock producers of all experience levels. Learning how to use records correctly supports stronger herds, saves time, and builds long-term farm profits. Good record management gives farmers the confidence to make smart choices that improve animal health and farm success.
There is no cost to attend. To register or learn more, visit ndsu.ag/recordmgmt26.
For more information, contact Quail at lacey.quail@ndsu.edu.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-diane-kuhl
Categories: North Dakota, Livestock