By Andi Anderson
Calving Academy is offering a hands-on training program designed to help cattle producers gain real-world skills for safer and more confident calving seasons. The training takes place on January 10, 2026, at the Farmstead Inn and Conference Center in Shipshewana, Indiana.
The program focuses on building practical knowledge that farmers can use during calving time. Participants learn about the stages of calving, safe cow restraint methods, and proper newborn calf care. These lessons help producers protect both cows and calves while reducing stress and injury during delivery.
A major part of the training includes hands-on practice. Producers work with a phantom cow model to practice calf repositioning and the correct use of pulling chains. These activities prepare participants for common calving problems, including difficult births known as dystocia. Learning how to manage these situations supports better animal health and farm safety.
The program fee is $50. The Purdue Beef Team sponsors this fee to help make the training affordable. Additional materials, including OB chains, are available for purchase at the event.
Participants must register in advance. Registration forms and payment can be mailed or dropped off at the Purdue Extension Elkhart County office in Goshen, Indiana. Checks are payable to Purdue University.
For questions or a registration form, contact Kathryn Jennings at 574-533-0554 or jennin30@purdue.edu.
The program also supports accessibility needs. Producers who require special accommodations, translators, or interpreters are encouraged to contact the program coordinator in advance. This ensures all participants can attend and fully benefit from the training
Calving Academy provides a valuable learning opportunity for both new and experienced cattle producers. The program supports better calf survival, safer working conditions, and stronger herd health.
By offering hands-on training and expert guidance, Calving Academy continues to support livestock producers with clear and useful education. The program helps build confidence and prepares farmers for successful calving seasons across Indiana and surrounding farming communities.
Photo Credit: istock-simplycreativephotography
Categories: Indiana, Livestock, Dairy Cattle