Alabama Extension Specialist Kent Stanford sits down with host Kayla Greer to share practical drought planning strategies for cattle producers. Their conversation covers drought monitoring, taking "boots on the ground" forage measurements, the importance of sound stocking rates, proactive culling, supplemental feeding economics, and it offers helpful tools for when times get dry. The episode’s main message—play offense. The time for drought planning is not once the grass is gone.
In this Alabama Cattlemen's Foundation (ACF) highlight episode, Trevor Haney (a past-Alabama Junior Cattlemen's Association member and recipient of several ACF scholarships) shares his journey from growing up on a cow-calf operation in Hope Hull to now serving as the south-central regional manager for the American Angus Association where he works with Alabama producers who poured into him as a student. Join host Josie and Trevor as they discuss the impact youth livestock programs and internships have on developing leaders, the importance of stepping outside your comfort zone within the agriculture industry and how the ACF Scholarship Program plays a role in developing a growing group of beef advocates across the country.
In this episode of Cattle Connect, ACA Past President Chuck Madaris of Lowndes County shares his story, talks about his service in the Alabama Cattlemen's Association, and highlights the mentors and family who shaped his work. A well-known mentor himself, Chuck discusses the importance of membership and grassroots leadership, challenges facing the industry, and offers practical advice for producers considering leadership roles.
In this junior cattlemen-focused episode, host Bailey Watson sits down with Caleb Cook, newly elected 2026–2027 president of the Alabama Junior Cattlemen’s Association. Caleb shares his journey from FFA and the show ring to serving on the AJCA board, along with his goals for growing membership and making the most of his year as president. They also discuss how young cattlemen can get involved in AJCA leadership, AJCA events taking place this year, and Caleb’s advice for youth looking to find their place in the beef industry.
In this episode of Cattle Connect, Auburn researchers Drs. Mykel Taylor and Kelli Russell discuss findings from the 2025 Alabama Farm Poll, which gathered responses from nearly 400 producers across the state. The conversation covers farmer quality of life, financial pressures and household adaptations, succession planning and retirement concerns, and the optimism producers still hold for Alabama agriculture.