There will be two beef genetics oriented webinars in February, 2010. Anyone with a computer and internet connection is invited to participate. If any beef producer would like to view the webinar and does not have internet connectivity, they are welcome to come to the Webster County UNL Extension office in Red Cloud to view the programs. Not only can it be viewed by agricultural professionals, it can be seen by seed-stock and commercial beef producers or anyone interested in beef and beef genetics. The dates for the webinars are February 11 and Feb 25; starting at noon for 1 hour each. Speakers will be Dr. Bob Weaber, University of Missouri and Dr. Matt Spangler, University of Nebraska. The schedule is as follows:

February 11, 2010: “Managing genetic defects in beef cattle: practical advice for protecting your herd and investment.” Topics covered will include a review of the mode of inheritance common to many genetic defects, understanding inbreeding, the importance of pedigree analysis, common genetic defects, practical advice for selection, and culling to avoid or eliminate genetic defects in your herd.

February 25, 2010: “Mating systems to solve problems and add value to beef production systems: crossbreeding and the power of heterosis.” Topics covered will include a review of the fundamentals of heterosis (hybrid vigor), the power of crossbreeding to improve production efficiency, breed complementarity, simple and effective crossbreeding systems for large and small herds, and why there’s been a surge in popularity of hybrid genetics.

Webinar Connection Instructions: At the meeting time, simply click on the following link or copy and paste it into your browser to enter the meeting: http://connect.extension.iastate.edu/beefcattle/

When you go to that URL you will find yourself at a login page. Simply enter your name under the "Enter as a Guest" heading. Then click on "Enter Room." The instructions that detail how to join the integrated phone audio conference will be on the screen when you join the meeting. Anytime before the meeting you can visit the following URL to confirm your ability to connect to the Connect server:

http://www.extension.iastate.edu/testconnect/

This webinar is being presented by the Beef Cattle Clearinghouse eXtension Community of Practice.