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Dr. Jamie Courter is your Mizzou Beef Genetics Extension Specialist

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By Jared E. Decker Many of you have probably noticed that things have been a lot less active on the A Steak in Genomics™   blog, but you probably haven't known why. In January 2021, I was named the Wurdack Chair in Animal Genomics at Mizzou, and I now focus on research, with a little bit of teaching. I no longer have an extension appointment. But, with exciting news, the blog is about to become a lot more active! Jamie Courter began as the new MU Extension state beef genetics specialist in the Division of Animal Sciences on September 1, 2023. I have known Jamie for several years, meeting her at BIF when she was a Masters student. I have been impressed by Jamie in my interactions with her since that time.  Dr. Courter and I have been working closely together the last 6 weeks, and I am excited to work together to serve the beef industry for years to come! Jamie holds a bachelor’s degree in animal science from North Carolina State University and earned a master's degree in animal...
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Farm Management Program Addresses Tough Times and Tackles Tough Questions in Agriculture

          According to Garry L. Mathes, chair of the 2016 Missouri Livestock Symposium, producers and land owners coming to the Missouri Livestock Symposium to participate in the farm management section can expect the speaker lineup to address some of the toughest questions facing agriculture today. Mathes continues to say that the Missouri Livestock Symposium continually strives to be on the cutting edge of producer education and our Farm Management section is designed to do just that.
Dr. Scott Brown, University of Missouri ag economist, will return for the Saturday program to lead two discussions. The first talk focuses on “Land Values and Cash Rents: How Far Will They Fall” and the second talk concentrates on “Who is Winning the Agricultural Trade Game.” Dr. Brown brings many years of experience dealing with agricultural economics and farm management. Mathes notes Scott is an exceptional speaker and no one will want to miss his presentations. 
Also speaking in the Farm Management Section will be Jennifer Wood, crop insurance agent, discussing the changes and specifics of the Livestock Risk Protection Program as well as additional information on the Pasture Range and Forage insurance program.
Rounding out the Farm Management Section will be three talks on estate planning. Dr. Ron Hanson, University of Nebraska, will address the challenges farming families face when transferring farm ownership to the next generation. Dr. Hanson’s talks include “You Can Buy the Family Farm, But I Still Own It,” “Overcoming Family Challenges to Farm Succession Planning for Success,” and “Keeping Your Farm in the Family for the Next Generation-Is There a Succession Plan.” Mathes continues to say, “We are extremely excited to host Dr. Hanson at this year’s Livestock Symposium. Anyone who owns a farm or ranch will benefit greatly from hearing Dr. Hanson speak about overcoming the family challenges to ownership transfer.”
Mathes notes that there will be a lot more of interest in addition to the Farm Management program. There is a full lineup of nationally acclaimed speakers on beef cattle, horses, sheep, meat goats, stock dogs, backyard poultry and beekeeping. The Symposium also features a free trade show and two free meals—a beef supper on Friday evening at 6 p.m. and a Governor’s Style Luncheon on Saturday at noon.
            The Symposium runs from 4-10 p.m. on Friday, December 2 and 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. on Saturday, December 3. The event will be held at the William Mathew Middle School, 1515 S. Cottage Grove in Kirksville, MO. No pre-registration is needed and there is no cost to attend. Mathes notes, “if there is a better deal anywhere he wants to know about it!”
The Friday night program will also feature a keynote address by Dr. Scott Brown titled “The Financial Challenges and Opportunities Facing Missouri Agriculture.” Dr. Galen Hill of Kirksville, MO will be honored with the 2016 Missouri Livestock Person of the Year.
Additional details about speakers, topics, lodging, meals, trade show, and more can be found at the Missouri Livestock Symposium website at www.missourilivestock.com and our Facebook page; or call Garry Mathes at 660-341-6625 or the Adair County Extension Center at 660-665-9866.

            

University of Missouri Extension provides equal opportunity to all participants in extension programs and activities, and for all employees and applicants for employment on the basis of their demonstrated ability and competence without discrimination on the basis of their race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, or status as a protected veteran.

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