North Florida ranchers are being prodded to attend this year’s annual Beef and Forage Day at the University of Florida’s North Florida Research and Education Center in Marianna on Friday, Oct. 3.

All things bull and cow, along with what to feed them, will be discussed. In addition, REC leaders will be showing off a new $275,000 cattle fence and gate. The Florida Cattlemen’s Association helped secure the project’s funding from state legislators.

“The pens, in addition to enhancing the safety of operations for our scientists, staff and animals, will augment the quality of our Bull Test program, cattle auctions, research projects and educational programs,” said Nicholas Comerford, NFREC director. “We are grateful to the Florida Cattlemen for their continued support and confidence in the NFREC.”

Comerford, also a member of the UF Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences faculty, said the Bull Test program, which is meant to increase the quality of North Florida cattle, has added an additional $58 per head to calves sired by Bull Test-evaluated bulls. The Florida Bull Test program was established at the NFREC in 1999.

Registration starts at 8:30 a.m., Central Daylight Time, with programs kicking off at 9 a.m., including Fertilization Options for Bahiagrass Demonstration and Scouting and Controlling Pests in Pastures. There is a $10 registration fee and lunch and refreshments will be provided.