Dr. David Schmidt, Ankeny (left) and Kim Alexander, Smithland (center) discuss animal health during first session in the Urban Cow Series on January 9 at the Woodbury County Extension office in Sioux City.
The trend of people using their homestead to grow some of their own food is expanding to growing their own eggs and dairy. “Before you can grow your food source there is some work and research that needs to be done,” according to ISU Extension and Outreach Dairy Specialist Fred Hall. “Understanding your goals and resources, understanding the animals you will be caring and providing for, and finally understanding the systems required for your new lifestyle are all important factors” says Hall.
The first session focused on goals and resources that the family needs to consider before jumping into the new endeavor. This program will help you gain knowledge and resources to make the best decision for your family and lifestyle and be successful in producing wholesome and safe dairy from your own animals. You can choose to attend any or all five programs.”
All sessions will be hosted from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at the ISU Extension and Outreach Woodbury County Office located at 4728 Southern Hills Drive in Sioux City.
The schedule for the remaining sessions includes:
- 23 – Asset Needs: What animal(s) will best fit your needs? We will discuss species and breeds, as well as their land, housing facilities, milking equipment, and time and labor requirements.
- 13 – Animal Husbandry: The discussion will focus on animal husbandry, nutrition and health.
- March 6 – Sanitation: Having a plan for sanitation and milking protocols is extremely important. We will cover some guidelines and talk about some options.
- April 3 – Cheese Making: This session will explore best management practices for cheese production and will feature a hands-on demonstration.
Registration for the remaining sessions can be completed online at https://go.iastate.edu/URBANCOW or by contacting the ISU Extension and Outreach Woodbury County office at 712-276-2157. Registration fee is $10 per session or $20 for all the remaining sessions and should be completed at least one day prior to the program.
For more information about the Urban Cow Series, call Hall at 712-737-4230 or visit https://www.extension.iastate.edu/dairyteam/Urban-Cow