NDSU Extension Hosts Beef Cattle Update Event

By Scout Nelson

North Dakota State University Extension announces the 11th annual Beef Cattle Update for livestock producers in the region. The event takes place on Friday, Feb. 20, 2026, at the McVille Auditorium in McVille, North Dakota. Producers from Nelson, Griggs, Grand Forks, and Steele counties are invited to attend.

The program is designed to provide useful and practical information, that cattle producers can apply directly to their operations. The event begins with a free lunch at noon, provided by sponsors and served by Sissy’s Bakery. Educational sessions follow lunch and focus on key issues facing beef producers today.

“Every year we try to bring topics producers can put to work right away,” said Traci Trostad, NDSU Extension agriculture and natural resources agent in Nelson County. “Whether it’s herd health, market outlook or planning for what’s next in the operation and the family, this update is about practical information you can take home and use.”

The afternoon agenda starts at 12:30 p.m. with an introduction to the new NDSU Extension veterinarian, Dr. Jake Galbreath. At 1:00 p.m., producers learn about services and updates from the Veterinary Diagnostic Lab, presented by Megan Vig and Traci Trostad.

The program continues at 1:20 p.m. with a livestock marketing outlook led by Tim Petry, NDSU livestock economist, who discusses current trends and market conditions. At 2:30 p.m., the focus shifts to Succession Planning 101, presented by attorney Kelly Swenseth, offering guidance on planning for the future of both the farm and family.

The Beef Cattle Update is supported by several local and regional sponsors, including banks, feed companies, cattle operations, conservation districts, livestock organizations, and veterinary clinics. Their support helps keep the event accessible and free for producers.

Additional event details are available online. For more information, contact Trostad at 701-247-2521 or traci.trostad@ndsu.edu or Vig at 701-524-2253 or megan.vig@ndsu.edu. Requests for disability-related accommodations should be made by Feb. 6. The Beef Cattle Update continues to serve as a valuable learning opportunity for cattle producers across North Dakota.

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