Beef symposium to be held in Pagosa Feb. 4

Posted

By Roberta Tolan

PREVIEW columnist

Every five years, the annual San Juan Basin Extension Beef Cattle Symposium is held in Pagosa, and this is the year.

On Tuesday, Feb. 4, from 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m., experts from Colorado and New Mexico will gather at the CSU Extension office at 344 U.S. 84 in Pagosa Springs to speak on everything from managing pastures at high altitude, the latest in beef nutrition and reproduction, poisonous plants that affect cattle health and how to best restock the herd after a drought.

This symposium, presented by Colorado State University Extension and New Mexico State University Extension, has become a tradition in southwest Colorado and northwest New Mexico, bringing educational programs important to help sustain this way of life that is so important to our economy and the heritage of our area.

Colorado ranks fifth in the nation for value of cattle and calves, which is over half of the total market value of agricultural products sold in Colorado. The contribution from beef cattle is greater than three times that of grains, oilseeds and dry beans. Colorado ranches and producers are a significant economic driver in the state and provide millions of acres of wildlife habitat, high-quality water and open space. This symposium focuses on enhancing the continued economic contribution of the Colorado Beef Industry through educational programs, problem-solving research and communication of science-based information to producers and the consuming public. In addition, it offers an opportunity for beef producers, Extension field staff and experts in the field to discuss topics of mutual relevance.

To register for this important educational opportunity, call the CSU Archuleta County Extension office today at 264-5931 to qualify for the early registration fee of $20. Registration fees received after Jan. 30 are $25 and will not guarantee handout materials or lunch. Bring your $20 registration fee to 344 U.S. 84, Pagosa Springs or fax it to 264-5934.

Radon presentations, kits

Free presentations about radon detection and mitigation will be offered at the CSU Extension office in Pagosa Springs on Feb. 25 at 1 p.m. Those attending a radon presentation can pick up a free radon testing kit while supplies last.

CPR and first aid classes

CPR and first aid certification classes are now being offered monthly by the CSU Extension office on the second Monday and Wednesday of each month from 6-10 p.m. Anyone needing to receive or renew certification can register by calling the Extension office at 264-5931. We will also attempt to schedule classes on additional dates with five or more registrations. Cost for the classes is $80 for combined CPR/first aid and $55 for CPR, first aid or recertification. The type of first aid information provided will vary by the needs of the audience.