Published: August 25, 2009 09:26 pm      

Cow Congress set for Sept. 25

The 2009 Cow Country Congress program, an annual event supported by the Extension Beef and Forage committees from seven counties, will meet at the Corlay Farm and Cattle Co. at Dodge on Sept. 25.

Reggie Lepley, Walker County Extension Agent–Ag, said program registration will begin at 8:30 a.m. followed by introductions at 9.

Lepley said individuals interested in attending the 2009 Cow Country Congress should RSVP prior to Sept. 21 to the Walker County Extension Office by phoning (936) 435-2426.

They can also contact one of the other participating County Extension Offices, including Madison, Houston, Trinity, Leon, Freestone and Anderson counties.

A registration fee of $10 per person will provide each participant a chicken fried steak lunch with all the trimmings.

Lepley said each participant with a Texas Department of Agriculture Pesticide Applicators License will be eligible for two hours of Continuing Education Credits for renewal of their license.

Additional participant credit of 3.5 hours will be given for Beef Quality Assurance recertification.

“This educational program rotates within the group of host counties each year,” Lepley said. “In addition to the traditional seven-county area, beef producers from outside these counties are invited to attend this educational program.

“Participants in attendance will have the opportunity to visit with a variety of commercial exhibitors several times during the course of the day between presentations, demonstrations and tours of the host property.”

Lepley said Corlay Farm and Cattle Co. is owned by Dr. Jody Crawford of Huntsville.

“Dr. Crawford’s farm has been known in Walker County for extremely high quality hay production and intensive beef herd management characterized by progressive reproductive practices,” Lepley said.

“Dr. Crawford’s interest in wildlife management has developed into a variety of wildlife related enterprises and projects which will be viewed on the ranch during the program.”

Lepley said the company has had an ongoing quail management and re-establishment program for many years and is now diversifying into whitetail deer operations.

Topics schedueld to be discussed at the Cow Country Congress include native grass pastures, forage legumes, smart fertilizer utilization, chute-side management practices, plus artificial insemination and embryo transfer options for smaller cattle operations.

“This event will showcase truly outstanding facilities for working both cattle and whitetail deer,” Lepley said.