Young Cattle Producer Conference Develops Leaders in Idaho

The need for young leadership in the beef industry has become a rising concern as the average age of primary operators increases. Idaho Extension educators developed a leadership conference for beef producers, with the primary objective being to educate and develop leadership qualities in young cattle producers. Participants, aged 18–40 years old, have opportunities to learn all aspects of the industry through presentations, hands-on learning, and industry tours. A postconference survey revealed that participants had a better understanding of the beef industry at the conclusion of the program and planned to use what they learned. Extension professionals elsewhere can use our description of the program to build similar programs in their states.