As cattle producers prepare for another year of possible market volatility and management challenges, Jennifer Patterson, OSU Extension agricultural educator in Payne County, says the upcoming Central Oklahoma Cattle Conference is designed to deliver timely information and practical takeaways. Speaking with Associate Farm Reporter Carli Davenport, Patterson explained that the annual regional event brings together cattle producers and industry professionals from across Oklahoma and neighboring states. “Our target audience is our cattle producers, but we invite anybody who’s interested or invested in the cattle industry to come,” Patterson said.
Patterson says the conference offers a full schedule from start to finish, beginning with registration at 8 a.m. and continuing through the afternoon. “It’s a day-long event…with a great lineup of guest speakers with timely topics that are pertinent to our cattle producers, a lot of different vendors and a great meal,” she said, adding that the event is also “a great networking opportunity for everybody.”
Patterson outlined a strong lineup of speakers addressing some of the most pressing topics facing cattle producers today. The conference will begin with OSU Extension Marketing Specialist Dr. Derrell Peel, who will provide a 2026 market outlook following a year of historically strong cattle prices. Forage and fertility management will be tackled in an interactive session led by Dr. Brian Arnall, OSU precision nutrient management state specialist, alongside Brian Pugh, OSU forage state specialist, as they address challenges tied to recent environmental extremes. Heather Buckmaster, executive director of the Oklahoma Beef Council, will discuss how the beef checkoff supports promotion, research, and education efforts that benefit producers. Kansas State University’s Dr. Megan Rolf will cover cattle genetics, emphasizing why bull selection is especially critical as producers rebuild herds amid historically tight beef inventories. Rounding out the day, OSU beef cattle state specialist and veterinarian Dr. Rosslyn Biggs will provide an update on biosecurity, highlighting disease concerns in surrounding regions and steps producers can take to protect herd health.
Patterson emphasized that the trade show is another key part of the conference, with strong vendor participation this year. “We have over 20 vendors coming—local businesses, banks, feed and chemical reps, different farmers and ranchers,” she said. She added that groups like the Payne County Cattle Producers and the Oklahoma CattleWomen’s Association will also be represented, along with giveaways and door prizes. “This is a great opportunity for people to mingle and network and see what resources are available to them.”
The Central Oklahoma Cattle Conference will be held February 13 at the Payne County Expo Center in Stillwater. Patterson encourages early registration, noting, “We are asking that you register by February 6.” The ticket cost per person is $25. Producers can register by calling the Payne County OSU Extension center at (405) 747-8320 or by emailing Patterson directly at jennifer.k.patterson@okstate.edu
