The 2025 Kentucky Beef Conference is set to return Oct. 21 with a robust agenda designed to equip producers with the tools and insights needed to navigate today’s evolving beef industry. Held at the Fayette County Extension Office in Lexington, this year’s theme, “Today’s Challenges, Tomorrow’s Opportunities,” reflects a forward-looking approach to the most pressing issues facing cattle operations across the Commonwealth.  

From market volatility to herd management and pest threats, the conference will bring together leading experts, seasoned producers and industry innovators for an afternoon of timely updates and strategic networking.  

The program kicks off at 3 p.m. ET with welcome remarks from Allison Tucker, Fayette County agriculture and natural resources Extension agent, and Craig Wood, assistant director of Extension for agriculture, natural resources and horticulture at the University of Kentucky Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment.  

“This conference offers producers a chance to hear directly from specialists and industry leaders on the economic outlook and emerging challenges in the beef sector,” Tucker said. “It’s a valuable opportunity to stay informed and connected.” 

Headlining the speaker line-up is UK beef economics Extension specialist Kenny Burdine, who will deliver a comprehensive market outlook and discuss economic trends shaping the year ahead — always a highlight for attendees. 

Saulo Zoca, beef reproduction Extension specialist from the University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture, will lead a session on bull management and selection, offering practical guidance for optimizing herd performance. 

The conference will conclude with a joint presentation from Extension entomologist Hannah Tiffin and Extension animal health veterinarian Jessie Lay, who will address the rise of emerging pests and their implications for herd health and sustainability. Tiffin will discuss tick management strategies for healthy herds and families. Lay will provide updates on the avian flu and its relevance to beef producers, highlighting biosecurity measures and disease prevention strategies. The latest information on New World screwworm will also be shared. 

“The Kentucky Beef Conference is designed to empower producers with relevant, research-based information,” said Linda McClanahan, Mercer County Extension agent for agriculture and natural resources. “Our goal is to help producers make informed decisions that support long-term success.” 

The event is free, and registration opens at 2 p.m. Attendees are encouraged to arrive early to connect with sponsors and fellow producers before the program begins. The event will wrap up with a meal at 6:30 p.m. 

RSVP by Oct. 17 by contacting the Fayette County Extension Office at 859-257-5582. The conference will be held at 1140 Harry Sykes Way, Lexington. 

Learn more at https://events.mgcafe.uky.edu/events/2025/2025-kentucky-beef-conference.  

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Writer: Jennifer Elwell, jennifer.elwell@uky.edu  

The Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment is an Equal Opportunity Organization with respect to education and employment and authorization to provide research, education information and other services only to individuals and institutions that function without regard to economic or social status and will not discriminate on the basis of race, color, ethnic origin, national origin, creed, religion, political belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, marital status, genetic information, age, veteran status, physical or mental disability or reprisal or retaliation for prior civil rights activity.