Livestock producers can learn how to recognize, prevent, and manage toxic plants in pastures and rangelands through a new three-part webinar series hosted by Nebraska Extension this June.
The Toxic Plants Webinar Series will bring together specialists in range and forage management, veterinary toxicology, and plant science to share best practices and insights into plant toxins affecting livestock health. The webinar series is open to all and will be especially useful to cattle producers, pasture managers, and landowners.
Each session will be held from 7:30 to 8:30 a.m. CDT and will include time for audience questions. Registration is $30 per participant and includes a copy of EC-3037 Nebraska Plants Toxic to Livestock to be mailed to participants.
Session 1: Common Toxic Plants
June 11, 7:30-8:30 AM. CDT
This session will cover the identification of common toxic plants found in Nebraska pastures and rangelands, including range and forage species. Experts will discuss seasonal and environmental factors—such as drought or overgrazing—that increase the risk of poisoning. Presenters: Ben Beckman, Cheryl Dunn, and Ryan Benjamin.
Session 2: How Plant Toxins Affect Livestock Health
June 18, 7:30-8:30 AM CDT
Participants will learn about the different classes of plant toxins, how they affect livestock, and how to recognize the signs of poisoning. The session will also provide guidance on veterinary care and emergency response. Presenters: Ben Beckman and Lindsay Wachter-Mead.
Session 3: Prevention and Management
June 25, 7:30-8:30 AM. CDT
This session will focus on practical management strategies to reduce the risk of plant poisoning, including grazing management, stocking density, and the control or removal of toxic plants. Presenters: Ben Beckman, Jerry Volesky, Lindsay Wachter-Mead, and Ryan Benjamin.
To register for the webinar series or learn more, visit https://go.unl.edu/toxicplants
For questions, contact Ben Beckman at ben.beckman@unl.edu.
Natalie Jones | IANR Communications
