Beef and dairy cattle are a large part of the agricultural community here in Logan County. They are a significant source of income for many local farmers and provide much needed revenue and jobs in the county. Selecting, breeding, raising and marketing beef and dairy cattle is becoming more technical and requires more planning and management practices. Often times these skills are not learned in a formal environment but through experience and hands-on application. Learning these new techniques and practices are especially important for young farmers with an interest in producing quality beef and milk. On September 18th, 40 students from Logan County High School participated in the 4-H, FFA Logan County Cattle Day. This day-camp, sponsored by the Logan County FFA Chapter and Logan County 4-H, enabled students to get first-hand experience with live cattle, tour farms in the community, and learn from experts about various aspects of the livestock community.

Logan County High School Agriculture Education teacher, Jay Campbell, Logan County 4-H Agent Gary M. Templeman and 40 high school agriculture students boarded the bus Friday morning ready to depart for their first tour, Robey’s Dairy Farms. At Robey’s, students were able to get an overview of how a dairy operates and get a firsthand look at the facilities. Students were shown the entire process from feeding the cattle, bringing them into the milking parlor, hooking the cows up to the milking machines, and finally the process the milk goes through from the udder to the holding tank. Students were able to experience, first hand, the entire process from farm to table.

The next stop was Milam Cattle Farm. At the farm, owner and Ag Extension Agent, Chris Milam, had several head of cattle tied in his facility and gave a presentation on cattle selection, judging practices, meat identification and nutrition practices. Next up was Dr. Tracey from Logan County Animal Clinic. Dr. Tracey led an interesting discussion about various trends and technology changes in the animal health field. He covered issues such as artificial insemination, electronic identification tags, cloning, embryo transfer and other animal health related topics. Students were able to pass around various veterinary tools and ask questions relating to the discussion. He also spoke about veterinary science as a career and the education it requires. At Milam’s, the Logan County Cattlemen provided the students a lunch of grilled hamburgers and all the trimmings.

After touring Milam’s, the students arrived at the Logan County Extension Office for a "cooking with beef" presentation.

Rachel Hance, Logan County FCS Agent, demonstrated a beef and cheese macaroni casserole as well as beef stir fry and answered questions about cooking with beef. Students were able to sample both recipes.

At the end of the day, students arrived back at the high school with a more advanced knowledge of raising and marketing cattle. Each student was given a chance to evaluate the program and make comments. Every student who participated gained some knowledge about beef or dairy cattle. Many also noted they will use more beef in their recipes and every participant agreed the program should be offered again next year. This proved to be a valuable day of learning and fun for the students.

The Logan County Extension Service offers several opportunities to learn more about livestock. There are currently active 4-H Horse and Rabbit Clubs. These meet on a regular basis and are involved in many aspects of hands-on learning and activities. There are also many 4-Hers who show cattle in the steer and sheep show each year. If you are interested 4-H livestock programs, please contact the Logan County Extension Office at 726-6323.