Suflower Supreme Heifer Program

Sunflower Supreme Heifer meeting flyer

Barrett Simon, Livestock Agent

This September, Kansas farmers and ranchers have an opportunity to raise a new variety of sunflowers as the Sunflower Supreme Replacement Heifer Program expands into central Kansas. A joint effort between K-State Research and Extension and the Kansas Department of Agriculture, the Sunflower Supreme Replacement Heifer Program provides research-based best management protocols for beef cattle producers seeking to add value to their herds. Not only does the program provide cattlemen and women with important reproduction and health management protocols, it also provides marketing opportunities for heifers enrolled in the program.

The Sunflower Supreme Heifer Program, established in southeast Kansas in 2013, has provided opportunities for herd improvement and value-added marketing. As interest has grown, producers statewide have asked for this practical method of developing and marketing heifers to expand throughout Kansas, and the first region for expansion will be in central Kansas beginning in fall 2017. Producers who enroll heifers this fall will have the option to market heifers that meet specific program guidelines at a special sale to be held in Salina in 2018. As demand grows, additional marketing opportunities will be added.

Just as it takes careful consideration to add sunflowers into a farmer’s crop rotation, beef producers must have a strong understanding of the Sunflower Supreme Program as they evaluate if it is a good fit for their operation. In order to provide opportunity for learning and discussion, we have scheduled an educational, producer focused meeting within the Post Rock District. On October 11th in Downs, K-State Research and Extension specialists will share with producers how they can enhance their operation through participation and inform potential buyers on the value and assurance that comes with the purchase of a Sunflower Supreme heifer. There is no cost to attend, but RSVP’s are appreciated. For more information please see the Sunflower Supreme Heifer meeting flyer.

Post Rock Extension District of K-State Research and Extension serves Jewell, Lincoln, Mitchell, Osborne, and Smith counties. Barrett Simon may be contacted at the Mankato Office, 785-378-3174 or at barrett8@ksu.edu.