Extension

Thiago Martins

Jan. 22, 2024

Thiago Martins

Our laboratory conducts studies on the topics of hormonal control of the estrous cycle and early embryonic losses in beef cattle. Specifically, we investigate progesterone-based strategies to improve efficiency of estrous synchronization programs for beef cows, embryo-maternal communication, and new fertility-promoting molecules. The research studies involve use of steroid assays, ultrasound, molecular techniques, and omics approaches. Our laboratory is also committed to promoting the use of reproductive biotechnologies in cow-calf operations. Educational background…

David Brown smiling at camera in a suit and bowtie.

Jan. 1, 2024

Q&A with David Brown

Get to know livestock field specialist David Brown.

Ivair Valmorbida

Dec. 10, 2023

Ivair Valmorbida

Research areas include: Educational background…

Zac Erwin

Oct. 30, 2023

Q&A with Zac Erwin

Zac is a field specialist in livestock.

Jamie Courter

Oct. 15, 2023

Jamie Courter

Courter’s research focuses on applying genetics, genomics and reproductive technologies to improve the productivity, profitability and sustainability of beef cattle production. Her research combines quantitative genetics, genomics and reproductive management to address practical challenges facing beef producers, with an emphasis on economically important traits, including fertility and cow productivity. Her work includes evaluating and validating genomic prediction tools, improving the use of EPDs and selection indexes, investigating genetic influences on reproductive performance, and developing strategies for more effective replacement heifer selection and breeding-system design. Her research also explores the integration of genetic selection with reproductive technologies, including sex-sorted…

Reagan Bluel named interim superintendent of Southwest Research Center

Aug. 29, 2023

Q&A with Reagan Bluel

What do you do in your current role with the University of Missouri? As an MU Extension field specialist in dairy and education director for Missouri Dairy, I serve dairy producers statewide through on-farm assessments and learning events. My programming ranges from small group, like Women in Dairy or full farm benchmarking, to large events such as the statewide dairy expo and summer social. Hands-on learning courses are my favorite to teach, such as artificial insemination or udder dissection. Individually, I consult a number of herds on ruminant nutrition. It’s so exciting to watch how a subtle dietary change can…

July 27, 2023

Q&A with Patrick Davis

Get to know Patrick Davis

A woman in a yellow collared shirt is teaching a group of seven children who are around the age of eight. They are all in a garden. She is holding plants in both hands.

June 27, 2023

Q&A with Jennifer Schutter

Get to know Jennifer Schutter

A man in an orange hat leans over a garden in a greenhouse.

June 27, 2023

Missouri Agriculture, Food and Forestry Innovation Center Cultivates growth in Local Agribusinesses

Nearly one-third of Missouri's economy is tied to agriculture. Now, as part of a partnership that evolved from a statewide effort to help agricultural producers scale their businesses, the Missouri Agriculture, Food and Forestry Innovation Center (MAFFIC) has launched. The center draws on agricultural business development expertise at the University of Missouri and the Missouri Agricultural and Small Business Development Authority (MASBDA).

Flooded field

April 27, 2023

Cover crops could reduce PPL acres in wet springs

A newly released study shows that planting cover crops and reduced tillage could substantially lower the number of prevent plant (PPL) acres and subsequent federal crop insurance payments. Cover crops lower the number of PPL acres in wet springs, reducing the loss odds by 24%, according to the six-state study released in March, says Rob Myers, director of the University of Missouri’s Center for Regenerative Agriculture. The center is a five-year, $25 million project to promote climate-smart farm practices. Average losses varied based on physical features that vary field to field. Myers and Bruce Sherrick of the…