Topics of soil health, rural stress and mental health, controlled environment agriculture, livestock management and highly pathogenic avian influenza will highlight the North Dakota State University Extension activities at the Big Iron Farm and Construction Show in West Fargo, North Dakota, Sept. 9-11.

Cattle producers are invited to join NDSU Extension specialists at the livestock building for several livestock management and industry sessions. All presentations will include a Q&A.

At 11 a.m. on Tuesday, Karl Hoppe, NDSU Extension livestock specialist at the Carrington Research Extension Center, will discuss exploring the value of a cow herd through feeding calves to finish. At 2 p.m., Dr. Jake Galbreath, NDSU Extension veterinarian, will provide an update on livestock diseases, including highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI).

At 11 a.m. on Wednesday, Lacey Quail, NDSU Extension livestock management specialist, will speak on “The Dollars and Cents of Early Pregnancy Testing Heifers.” At 2 p.m., Jon Biermacher, NDSU Extension livestock development specialist, will provide a 2025 update on livestock development in North Dakota.

NDSU Extension personnel will also feature exhibits at the east end of the Hartl Ag Building. NDSU Extension agents and specialists will be available to answer questions about crop and livestock production and other rural topics.

“NDSU Extension is happy to be present at Big Iron once again this year, where we will feature several new displays,” says Rob Proulx, NDSU Extension agriculture technology systems specialist. “Please stop by to view the displays, ask questions, provide input or simply to visit — all are welcome.”

The exhibit will feature hands-on demonstrations from NDSU Extension’s “Soil Health Express,” an education trailer designed to increase awareness of key soil health issues and principles. Soil health educational materials will also be provided.

Another aspect of the exhibit will focus on resources available to help farmers and ranchers thrive in the face of occupational stresses and challenges. Working in agriculture is accompanied by managing a variety of stresses on a regular basis. NDSU Extension specialists will be available to discuss resources and methods of appropriately dealing with stress.

The controlled environment agriculture exhibit will showcase innovative approaches to year-round leafy green production in North Dakota. Visitors will see live demonstrations of deep-water culture, vertical farming and the nutrient film technique — three hydroponic systems that offer sustainable, efficient solutions for local food production. As North Dakota faces challenges related to climate, short growing seasons and access to fresh produce in rural areas, CEA plays a critical role in advancing food security, workforce development and agricultural innovation across the state.

The exhibit will also feature information on HPAI and recommendations to limit the spread of disease. This is part of an ongoing collaboration among North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services, NDSU Public Health, NDSU Extension and NDSU Department of Animal Sciences to provide education on HPAI to agricultural producers in North Dakota.

Elsewhere on the show grounds, NDSU students representing the Bison Pullers and the Bison Antique Tractor Club will feature their exhibits. The Bison Pullers will display their one-fourth-scale tractor, which is part of an annual effort where club members design and build the tractor for an international collegiate competition sponsored by the American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers. Their 2025 entry placed within the top 15 overall. The Bison Antique Tractor Club will have one or more antique tractors on display, which were reconditioned as part of an annual club activity.

NDSU Agriculture Communication – Aug. 19, 2025

Source: Rob Proulx, 701-231-5389, rob.proulx@ndsu.edu

Source: Karl Hoppe, 701-652-2951, karl.hoppe@ndsu.edu

Source: Lacey Quail, 701-857-7677, lacey.quail@ndsu.edu

Editor: Dominic Erickson, 701-231-5546, dominic.erickson@ndsu.edu