University of Wisconsin-Extension will host their annual one-day statewide conference on March 7 at Clarion Hotel and Conference Center in Eau Claire to address the issue of animal handling and well-being.

"The care and well-being of cattle in the state of Wisconsin is important to consumers and farmers alike," said Mark Hagedorn, UW-Extension Eau Claire County agriculture agent. "This conference will help producers improve the care of their cattle and gain a better understanding of advocating animal well-being."

Dairy and beef producers, veterinarians, farm service providers, educators, emergency managers, first responders and elected officials are encouraged to attend. The conference focuses on expanding awareness and understanding about how dairy and beef animals are cared for and what the implications could be for Wisconsin farmers and agriculture industry.

Topics and presenters this year include:


  • McDonald's Global Animal Health and Welfare: A Practical Approach; Bruce Feinberg, McDonald's Corporation.
  • Animal Well-Being: Opinions, Ethics and Science; Dr. Amy Stanton, UW-Extension/Madison animal well-being specialist.
  • The Value of a Cull Cow-The Packer Perspective; Lily Edwards-Callaway, PhD, JBS.
  • Euthanasia Update; Dr. Kurt Vogel, UW-River Falls.
  • The Importance of Advocating Animal Well-Being via Social Media Channels; Amy Manske, Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation.
  • Replacing Outcry with Outreach; Denny Harding, Iowa Farm Animal Care Coalition.


The conference will be held Friday, March 7 at Clarion Hotel and Conference Center, 2703 Craig Road, Eau Claire, Wisconsin. Registration begins at 8:30 a.m. and the conference ends at 3:00 p.m. The cost is $40 per person ($75 with CE credits) for those who register by March 1. Registration will be $50 ($85 with CE credits) after March 1.

This program has been approved for up to 6 hours of continuing education credits for veterinary practitioners and technicians.

Go to the website for the program agenda and registration information. Sponsors and supporters include: JBS, National Dairy Farm Program, Equity Livestock, Animart, Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation, Zoetis and UW-Extension.

Return to Industry Buzz.

1.24.2014