The Livestock Production and Principles for Beginners Webinar Series returns in 2024. This monthly series, first launched in 2023, addresses the needs of those who are getting started, exploring the concept of, or even assists those currently raising livestock. With a focus on helping those who are brand new to livestock, 4-H families may be interested in these sessions. 

These sessions will all be held via the Zoom platform and begin at 6 p.m. on their respective nights. There will be a $15 fee to attend the whole series, or a $5 fee per session. Pre-registration is required by the day before each session to receive the Zoom link to attend. To register or for more information please visit us online at go.illinois.edu or call the Jo Daviess County Extension Office at 815-858-2273.

"For those starting their livestock journey, we know that it can be challenging finding the right resources and getting the right answers" states Grant McCarty, Local Foods and Small Farms Educator. "These webinar series presented by U of I Extension experts aim to cover essential and relevant topics that producers can put into place the upcoming season, gaining confidence in their livestock production"

Sessions for 2024 will build upon those for 2023.

For the second presentation in the series, Extension Educator Katie Bell will cover “Equine Pasture Management” on February 1. Productive, healthy pastures are a source of quality feed for our four-legged friends, but managing them can be challenging and overwhelming. Bell will discuss strategies for building and maintaining pasture health, fencing options, equine health on pastures, and alternate strategies for keeping horses on small acres. She will also share insights from her own experiences and reliable resources to get you on the right track.

Other topics being covered include: “A Fence Is A Fence, Right?” by Stanley Solomon on January 11, “Selling Meat in Illinois” by Doug Gucker on February 29, and “Sheep and Goat Internal Parasite Management” by Sarah Farley on March 14.

If you need a reasonable accommodation to participate in any of these programs, please contact the Jo Daviess County Extension Office at 815-858-2273. Early requests are strongly encouraged to allow sufficient time to meet your needs.