By Scout Nelson
The University of Minnesota Extension and the Minnesota Dairy Initiative will host a Beef x Dairy Insights Program in Zumbrota, Minnesota, on Tuesday, July 15, 2025, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Central time. The free event is open to dairy producers, calf growers, and ag professionals involved in beef-sired calf management.
Held at Zumbrota VFW, this evening program will offer practical knowledge on decision-making strategies for beef x dairy cross calves. Attendees will gain insights into early nutrition, marketing strategies, and profitable sire selection.
UMN Dairy Extension Specialist Brad Heins will share research on how beef sire breed selection affects pre-weaning performance, carcass quality, meat traits, and economic return. His presentation will also include outcomes from previous studies on early calf health and its long-term impact.
UMN Beef Educator Melissa Runck will cover sire selection for crossbreeding with a focus on profitability. Her discussion will include trends in beef markets, return-on-investment across marketing methods, and strategies to meet industry demands.
Evening Schedule:
- Social/Registration: 6:30 – 7:00 p.m.
- Dinner: 7:00 – 7:30 p.m.
- Presentations & Discussion: 7:30 – 8:30 p.m.
The event is free to attend, but advance registration is encouraged to help plan for food. The program will be delivered in English, and interpreter services may be available with advance notice.
UMN Extension is committed to equal participation and encourages early requests for accommodations to ensure accessibility for all. For details or assistance, contact Lily Dahler at dahle225@umn.edu or 320-247-3319.
This informative session offers the latest research and strategies for improving calf outcomes and economic returns through smart beef x dairy crossbreeding.
Photo Credit:gettyimages-pamwalker68
Categories: Minnesota, Livestock, Beef Cattle, Dairy Cattle