Agriculture in Custer County

Agriculture, livestock and range management

UI Extension, Custer County provides up-to-date, research-based information to clients about livestock production. We answer calls and office visitors and conduct field visits on issues facing local producers. We also provide information to ranchers, land managers and other county residents about the responsible use of Idaho’s rangelands.

Contact the UI Extension, Custer County office at custer@uidaho.edu or 208-879-2344 for information on current classes and programs.

Beef school

UI Extension, Custer County offers workshops for beef producers to increase their knowledge of production practices. Contact us at custer@uidaho.edu or 208-879-2344 for more information on winter and spring beef schools.

These schools cover management topics including:

• Range monitoring
• Marketing beef cattle
• Reducing winter feed costs
• Designing a herd health program
• Buying bulls using EPD’s
• Passing down the family ranch
• Landowner conservation programs
• Developing mineral supplementation programs
• Calving schools
• Sage grouse
• Avoiding poisonous plants
• Reducing pocket gophers
• Ground squirrels and voles on your ranch
• Controlling noxious and obnoxious weeds

Beef quality assurance training

The Idaho beef quality assurance (BQA) program is a voluntary education program created in 1987 by cattle producers for cattle producers. The BQA program has identified production practices producers can implement. Producers learn these daily practices to increase safety, wholesomeness and quality of beef.

The ultimate goal of BQA is to maximize consumer confidence and acceptance of beef products. By participating and adopting BQA production practices, you strategically position your business for future opportunities. Committing to BQA is the right thing to do and can open doors to new marketing opportunities.

We occasionally host trainings. Please contact the UI Extension, Custer County office for more information.

Ag week

Ag Week teaches citizens about the contribution of agriculture in our everyday lives and increases appreciation of the role agriculture plays in a strong economy. Ag Week is celebrated during the third week of March. Contact the UI Extension, Custer County office after the new year for details on the next Ag Week.

Hay testing

Producers are encouraged to get their hay tested. Visit our office to borrow a hay corer. After you collect your sample, we will ship it to the lab for you. We also offer consulting to explain the test results and help you formulate livestock feeding rations.

Cost per sample: Please call us at 208-879-2344 for current rates.

Range management and natural resources

Contact the UI Extension, Custer County office at custer@uidaho.edu or 208-879-2344 for information on workshops related to plant identification, rangeland monitoring and rangeland management.