Submitted by Brandy Brabham, WVU Roane Co. Extension Agent, 304-927-0975 or brandy.brabham@mail.wvu.edu
The WVU Extension Service in Roane County is hosting their second and final in-person winter dinner meeting on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, at theRoane County Library in Spencer, WV. The meeting starts at 6:30 p.m. with a free meal provided by local sponsor, Little Kanawha Conservation District.
Wednesday night’s speakers include Samanthia Johnson and Yarahy Leal, WVU Ph.D. candidates working in animal nutrition, feed efficiency, and immune functions. They will explain the value of microbial additives to preconditioning rations in boosting calf health and performance.
This talk will highlight the role of microbial feed additives in improving the health, immunity, and feed efficiency of beef calves during the preconditioning phase. The session will discuss how these additives support rumen development, enhance nutrient utilization, and reduce the incidence of respiratory and digestive disorders commonly seen after weaning. Emphasis will be placed on practical feeding strategies, selection of effective microbial products, and interpreting research data to guide cost-effective supplementation decisions for West Virginia beef producers.
If landowners, farmers, or business owners in the Cat 1-3, Cat 2-3, Cat 11-3, Cat 12-3, or Cat 16-3 West Virginia pesticide applicator’s license attend this meeting, they can earn 5 credits from the West Virginia Department of Agriculture by signing in on the certification verification form at the meeting.
This meeting is free and open to the public, but pre-registration is requested for meal planning by 4 PM on Friday, February 13. To pre-register or for more information, call the WVU-Roane County Extension Office at 304-927-0975 or email roanecountyextension@mail.wvu.edu
