The North Dakota State University Extension Service has scheduled a series of workshops for livestock producers on Feb. 27-29 to discuss cost control and risk planning. The workshops are designed to allow livestock and forage producers in the northern Plains to develop personalized cost-control plans.

“Special emphasis will be placed on surviving in an environment with increasing energy and feed costs,” says Cole Gustafson, NDSU agricultural economist. “The workshops will address energy-related issues affecting production costs, feed resources, risk management tools and financial management strategies."

Some of the major topics include U.S. markets and implications for the cattle industry, managing a beef cow herd in a changing corn environment, farm-level economic impacts and management strategies, and the tools to reduce risk and protect profits.

Workshops dates and contacts are:

Feb. 27 – Hettinger Research Extension Center; Dan Nudell, (701) 567-4323

Feb: 28 – Ellendale Fireside Steakhouse and Lounge; Eugene Elhard, (701) 349-3249

Feb: 29 – Marshall County Community Building, Britton, S.D.; Tyler Melroe (605) 448-5171

There is no cost for attending any of the workshops. However, preregistration is requested so organizers of the workshops may plan accurately for materials and meals. Registration on the day of a workshop begins at 9 a.m.

Other workshop sponsors are Montana State University, South Dakota State University, National Crop Insurance Services and the USDA’s Risk Management Agency.

NDSU Agriculture Communication