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The workshops are designed to improve the understanding of the physiological
processes of the estrous cycle, currently available procedures to synchronize
estrus and ovulation and the proper application of these systems.
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By Laura Skillman
LEXINGTON, Ky., (Sept. 14, 2005) - Reproduction is the keystone of any
commercial cow-calf or seed stock operation, and an upcoming symposium focuses
on strategies that producers and their consultants can use to improve the
productivity and profitability.
Kentucky, Virginia and Tennessee Cooperative Extension, in conjunction with the
North Central Region Bovine Reproduction Task Force, will host Applied
Reproductive Strategies in Beef Cattle in Lexington Nov. 1-2 at the Ramada Inn.
As the beef industry puts more emphasis on animal uniformity, known genetic
potential and predictable performance, technologies such as estrous
synchronization and artificial insemination become increasingly important,
according to organizers. In addition, reproductive success can be enhanced by a
better understanding of beef cattle reproduction in general as well as the
impact of nutrition and management on reproduction.
Symposium speakers include reproductive physiologists and veterinarians from
across the country. Kentucky’s program focuses on aspects of reproduction unique
to the Eastern United States, such as the impacts of endophyte-infected fescue,
moderate herd size and feeds common to the region, said John Hall, Extension
beef cattle specialist at Virginia Tech. Similar programs are being offered in
Texas and Nevada.
“These meetings are for anyone interested in beef cattle reproduction and
estrous synchronization, including producers, veterinarians, AI (artificial
insemination) technicians and Extension specialists,” said Sandy Johnson,
reproductive physiologist with Kansas State University Research and Extension.
The workshops are designed to improve the understanding of the physiological
processes of the estrous cycle, currently available procedures to synchronize
estrus and ovulation and the proper application of these systems. They will also
focus on improving participants’ understanding of methods to assess male
fertility and how it affects the success of AI programs.
Les Anderson, a University of Kentucky Extension beef cattle specialist, said
panels featuring producers and practicing veterinarians are an important aspect
of the meeting. In addition, the meeting is approved for continuing education
credits for veterinarians.
First-day topics will include information on the physiological principles
underlying estrous synchronization, a detailed review of current estrous
synchronization systems, costs and comparisons, nutrition and reproduction
interactions, and dealing with noncycling females, among others.
Day two sessions will include presentations on breeding soundness exams,
industry application of technology in male reproduction, embryo transfer,
reproductive tract scoring and the use of ultrasound for early pregnancy
diagnosis and fetal sexing.
For more information on Applied Reproductive Strategies for Beef Cattle – East
meeting contact Anderson at (859) 257-2856,
landerso@uky.edu or Hall, at (540) 231-9153,
jbhall@vt.edu. The fee for the symposium is $150 for both days or $100 for
one day. An additional fee will be added for registrations after Sept. 26.
Information and registration forms are available on the Internet under the link
Applied Reproductive Strategies
here.
Writer: Laura Skillman
270-365-7541 ext. 278
Contact:
Les Anderson, 859-257-2856
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