Thanks to one of the country’s leading animal health companies, the National Cattlemen’s Beef Assn. (NCBA) said one of its successful programs that helps cattle producers become better animal handlers will reach new heights in 2017. NCBA announced that it is growing and enhancing the successful Stockmanship & Stewardship program with support from Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica Inc. (BIVI).

Cattle producers will notice a renewed focus and increased efforts regarding the hands-on cattle handling demonstrations, NCBA noted. Additionally, attendees will have the opportunity to learn through new opportunities and redesigned educational events that can improve their bottom line.

“We are proud to support NCBA on this important educational program,” said Steve Boren, executive director of the U.S. cattle business for BIVI. “We’re passionate about animal well-being and helping protect the future of the cattle industry. Using animal health products correctly and judiciously is part of that solution, and we believe the education producers receive at these events will be very valuable.”

The Stockmanship & Stewardship program will be led by clinicians Curt Pate and Ron Gill, who have hosted educational events at past NCBA trade shows in the Trade Show Demonstration Arena. Pate has been conducting demonstrations and clinics for more than a decade and will continue to entertain and educate audiences with his personal stories and innovative mindset. Gill is a renowned stockman and animal scientist for Texas A&M Agrilife Extension who captures the attention of cattle producers with his credibility as a rancher and ability to relate to his audience.

While local events will still be offered, the enhanced Stockmanship & Stewardship program will feature new multi-day events designed to attract cattle producers from a larger region at a central location. These new events will include a suite of educational opportunities for cattle producers, including sessions with local extension representatives, industry leaders and government agencies.

Chase DeCoite, associate director of Beef Quality Assurance for NCBA, noted that the variety of new opportunities for cattle producers offered will make the Stockmanship & Stewardship program "a ‘must-attend’ venue. It will serve as a location to learn from the best in the cattle industry as well as providing networking opportunities for attendees with fellow producers who are applying these innovative strategies on their own operations.”

For more information and to find an event, visit www.StockmanshipandStewardship.org.