Learn from other cattle producers who are facing similar issues affecting the region.
Cattle prices have been at record highs year after year, but producers still need to focus on the basics to remain profitable. The timely focus of the 14th annual Driftless Region Beef Conference brings together beef producers and Extension specialists from the Driftless Region of Illinois, Iowa, Minnesota, and Wisconsin for an educational program that addresses production needs and the topics producers face today.
Attendees will experience keynote sessions, select from various workshop topics to develop a customized program, and participate in the popular Bull Pen discussion on Thursday evening, all around reinvesting in the ranch. Visit with conference sponsors in the display area, and learn about the products and services they offer, as well as connect with many fellow beef producers from the region.
The early registration fee of $120 per person must be received prior to midnight on Jan. 7. After that date, it increases to $145. Early bird student cost is $60, then increases to $75. More information on topics, speakers, and lodging is available online at the registration link.
Conference Presentations
Practical Biosecurity Recommendations
While diseases like New World Screwworm and Foot and Mouth Disease capture the headlines, beef producers in the Midwest have a much higher risk of more common diseases like bovine respiratory disease, neonatal diarrhea, BVD and Johnes. How can you protect your herd from being exposed to these more common diseases? Presenter: Mark Hilton, Midwest Beef Cattle Consultants
Ticks, Trouble and the Herd – Staying One Step Ahead
There are many native tick species in the United States. While some years they create concern, they remained manageable. However, changing tick population dynamics and detection of Asian longhorned ticks, have created new troubles necessitating new management practices. This talk will delve into known data on Asian longhorned ticks, its movement, diseases transmitted and management recommendations. Presenter: Teresa Steckler, University of Illinois Extension
Genetic Selection for the “Right” Cows
Selecting for females with increased probability of success requires knowledge of production goals, environmental constraints, and currently available genetic selection tools. This talk will focus on identifying clear breeding objectives, currently available EPD and economic selection indexes focused on creating replacement females, and opportunities to refine selection decisions based on the unique circumstances of each producer. Presenter: Matt Spangler, University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Marketing Your Management: Adding Value and Reputation Through Intentional Calf Management
Discussion will center on recent research related to the impact of physical characteristics and calf health management decisions on the market value of feeder cattle. Related topics will include extended weaning, regional differences in market values of specific attributes, and how cattle buyers’ assess and value seller reputation in feeder cattle purchases. Presenter: Kellie Curry Raper, Oklahoma State University
Cattle Market Outlook
No significant heifer retention in 2025 is keeping cattle inventory low and prices high. How long will cattle prices continue to increase? This session will dive into the 2026 cattle outlook and what producers can do to position themselves for the future. Presenter: Brenda Boetel, University of Wisconsin
