| A livestock farmer's interaction with livestock can have both positive and negative impacts on animal health, performance, and subsequent handling ease. The WVU-Gilmer County Extension Service is offering a dinner and workshop for anyone looking to learn more about animal behavior and handling principles along with the design of livestock facilities on Monday, January 12, 2015, at 6 p.m. at the Gilmer County Recreation Center Glenville, WV.
Dinner will start at 6 p.m. and will cost $5 to assist in covering the cost of the meal. The workshop will start at 6:30 p.m. and is free to anyone that would like to attend.
The goal of this workshop is to encourage producers to think about the design of livestock working pens that accommodates their needs, while making safe and efficient use of available labor and reducing stress on animals. Research has shown that careful, quiet handling of livestock will help improve productivity. Stress imposed by handling and transportation can have detrimental effects on weight gain, rumen function, reproductive function, and even the entire immune system.
Dr. Kevin Shaffer, WVU Extension Livestock Production Specialist will discuss livestock behavior, provide handling tips, and advice on beneficial design features. Kevin will also give producers examples of handling systems, and discuss ideas for planning, constructing, and effectively utilizing new and existing working facilities. Careful, quiet handling of cattle will help improve productivity.
In order to provide enough meals please RSVP by January 5, 2015. To reserve your spot or to ask questions about the workshop contact Daisy Bailey at WVU Gilmer County Extension Office, 304-462-7061 or WVU Calhoun County Extension, 304-354-6332.
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