EVENTS

If you are interested in becoming a sponsor of next year's Ranch Rodeo, contact Fred Waters at 863-559-7108

Our Sweetheart this year is Sara Lundsford; she will compete for FCA Sweetheart in Marco:
Sara Lunsford is the daughter of Larry and Lynn Lunsford. She is 19 years old and a 2008 graduate from Bartow High School. Sara is currently attending Polk Community College in Winter Haven and hopes to transfer to the University of Florida to Major in Animal Science. Sara and her family are very involved in the cattle industry. Sara is a member of the Florida Junior Cattlemen's Association, the Florida Cattlewomen's Association, and the International Brangus Breeders Association. Her Family raises both Registered Brangus and Commercial Cattle outside of the Bartow city limits and helps promote the Beef Industry to the public. Sara recieved the 2008 Polk County Cattlewomen's Premier Award last year at the Cattlemen's Summer Dinner. She hopes to represent Polk County very well this year at the 2009 Florida Cattlemen's Convention.


Upcoming Events

March 18 
Water Quality BMPs for Cow-Calf Operators and Forest Owners
Water Quality BMPs are becoming increasingly important for cow-calf operators.  It is imperative that cow-calf operators are familiar not only with best management practices, but today’s ever changing water policies and how they will impact their operations.

March 30 
Polk County Young Cattlemen’s Youth Leadership Tour
This program is for young cattlemen (must be a member of the Jr. Cattlemen’s Association, 4-H or FFA) ages 8 to 18, as of Sept. 1, 2009.  Participation in this program is limited and available on a first come first served basis.  Priority will be given to Polk County residents.  Those that wish to participate must contact me to reserve a space. 

March 31
Range Cattle Research and Education Center (RCREC) Specialists Road Show – Bartow
The specialists from the research station will be touring several counties including Polk.  This is a great opportunity to learn about the latest research projects and developments related to the beef industry in south Florida.  This is also an excellent opportunity for you to discuss issues that you are facing on your operation.

April 13-15
Reproductive Management School
 This is an intense course in reproductive management for beef cattle owners and operators.  The broad range of topics and the hands-on lab make this a premier reproductive management program in the southeast.

May 1
Performance Horse Short Course
This program is for competitive horse owners.  This is a great opportunity to get a competitive edge in your sport.

May 5-7 
Florida Beef Cattle Short Course
This is a program that you should not miss.  The Beef Cattle Short Course is the most informative program offered to beef cattle producers in the state of Florida.  You will not want to miss the opportunity to attend.