SDSU Extension encourages participation in Nebraska Extension Calving College

Editor's note: This article has been updated to note that walk-ins will be allowed at the Winner workshop on Feb. 10, 2026. 

BROOKINGS, S.D. – South Dakota State University Extension is encouraging cow/calf producers to participate in a series of calving workshops hosted by Nebraska Extension.

This program offers practical, research-based guidance for farmers, ranchers and veterinary professionals working to ensure a successful calving season. It includes three webinars and one in-person session. Registration is $80 per person, and available at https://go.unl.edu/calving.

“SDSU Extension wanted to bring hands-on calving experience close to you and we are partnering with UNL Extension to do just that,” said Taylor Grussing, SDSU Extension Cow/Calf Field Specialist.

The three-part webinar, Fundamental Knowledge for Successful Calving Season, will take place on Jan. 19, 26 and Feb. 2, 2026, from 7:30 to 8:45 p.m. CST, followed by hands-on, in-person workshops held across four locations on Feb. 9–12 at 6 p.m. CST. The Winner workshop will allow walk-ins; $20 is due at the door. 

Webinar series topics:

• Jan. 19: Labor. Discussion includes stages of labor, what happens to the cow and calf during delivery, recognizing and knowing how to manage abnormal labor and when and how to assist delivery.
• Jan. 26: First 24 hours. Discussion includes post-calving care for cows and calves. How to review normal vitals for the cow and neonatal calf and recognize and manage complications in the first hours of life, including the importance of colostrum management and calf resuscitation techniques.
• Feb. 2: 48 hours and beyond. Keeping cow and calf healthy and thriving. Topics include nutritional requirements, common health concerns in calves, managing environmental stress in the first two months of life and how to manage orphan calves.

Each webinar will be led by Becky Funk, veterinarian, assistant professor and Nebraska Extension Specialist; and Lindsay Waechter-Mead, veterinarian and Nebraska Extension Livestock Educator. Participants are encouraged to engage and ask questions in real-time.

In-person workshops:

• Feb. 9: Mid-Plains Community College, Valentine, Nebraska.
• Feb. 10: Tripp County 4-H Center, Winner, South Dakota
• Feb. 11: West Holt FFA Shop, Atkinson, Nebraska
• Feb. 12: Northeast Community College, Norfolk, Nebraska

For more information about the Calving College webinar series and workshop, please contact Lindsay Waechter-Mead.