Following an overwhelmingly positive response last year, Nebraska Extension is bringing back its Calving College series for 2026. The three-part webinar series, Fundamental Knowledge for Successful Calving Season, will run Jan. 19, Jan. 26 and Feb. 2 from 7:30 to 8:45 p.m. CT, and will again be paired with hands-on, in-person workshops offered at four locations across Nebraska and South Dakota, Feb. 9–12.
Designed for farmers, ranchers and veterinary professionals, Calving College provides practical, research-based guidance to support successful calving outcomes. Each session is co-led by Dr. Becky Funk, DVM, Animal Health Teaching and Nebraska Extension Specialist, and Dr. Lindsay Waechter-Mead, DVM, Nebraska Extension Livestock Educator, giving participants the chance to learn directly from experts and ask questions in real time.
Webinar Series Topics
- Jan. 19 — Understanding Normal: Stages of labor; what happens to the cow and calf during delivery; recognizing and managing abnormal presentations; when and how to assist.
- Jan. 26 — First 24 Hours: Post-calving care; normal vitals for cows and newborn calves; recognizing complications; colostrum management; neonatal resuscitation techniques.
- Feb. 2 — 48 Hours and Beyond: Nutrition requirements; common calf health concerns; managing environmental stress during the first two months; managing orphan calves.
New for 2026: Participants will now be eligible for Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) continuing education credits.
In-Person Workshops
The series culminates in a hands-on workshop that allows participants to practice calving skills using a life-sized cow and calf model. Workshops will be held at 6 p.m. CST/CT at the following locations:
- Feb. 9: Cherry County Extension, Valentine, Neb.
- Feb. 10: Tripp County 4-H Center, Winner, S.D.
- Feb. 11: West Holt FFA Shop, Atkinson, Neb.
- Feb. 12: Northeast Community College, Norfolk, Neb.
Registration Details
- Fee: $80 includes the three-part webinar series and one in-person workshop
- Register: https://cvent.me/GOYAra
- Registration deadline: Jan. 12, 2026, to ensure participants receive materials on time
- Resources: Webinar participants receive a notebook of Nebraska Extension materials and access to recorded sessions for later viewing
- Technology needed: Computer and internet connection for webinar participation
For additional information, contact Dr. Lindsay Waechter-Mead at 402-746-3417 or lindsay.waechter-mead@unl.edu.
