Calvin' Fever program trains for calving preparedness

Published: 2019
By Kari Lewis

Reducing death loss during calving is a high priority for beef producers. Approximately 33% of all calf losses and 15% of breeding cattle losses are due to dystocia (abnormal or slow-progressing labor). Calvin’ Fever, a new program for calving preparedness, aims to educate ranch women on proper calving protocol, dystocia prevention, and newborn calf care. Thirty participants learned about calving difficulties, bull selection, newborn calf care, and preparing freezer meals in advance for busy times on the ranch. The workshop featured a local veterinarian and MSU Extension agents teaching and providing hands-on learning experiences. Calvin’ Fever provided education and increased knowledge of identifying calving difficulties and assisting with delivery and care of calves. Workshop participants were multi-generational and actively participated in this event. Assuming a 1% reduction in calf death loss as a result of Calvin’ Fever, an additional 55 calves would be weaned, creating approximately $55,000 additional revenue and resulting in an economic impact of approximately $1,800 per participant yearly. Overall, participants rated Calvin’ Fever as 4.8 out of 5, indicating high satisfaction. Participants learned several new techniques they planned to implement to improve calf and cow health. Attendees of Calvin’ Fever also gained confidence with their abilities to assist with calving. One producer commented, “You taught me much today. I am confident that I can save a calf. Your knowledge is incredible. I am proud that we have people like you with the time and care to teach me.” MSU Extension agents Kari Lewis, Adriane Good, and Kimberly Woodring won two awards for the program from the National Association of County Agricultural Agents.