Bozeman, Montana, September 16, 2025
News Summary
The Steer-A-Year program at Montana State University offers students hands-on experience in cattle management, bridging the gap between academic knowledge and practical skills. Open to all backgrounds, this program has expanded significantly, raising 45 cattle. It promotes inclusivity and networking opportunities while seeking donations for continued success. Students learn essential skills such as feed efficiency and livestock marketing, preparing them for careers in agriculture amidst a growing demand for skilled workers in the field.
Bozeman, Montana – The Steer-A-Year program at Montana State University (MSU) offers students a unique combination of academic knowledge and practical experience in cattle management. This innovative program allows students to dedicate a year to raising steers while focusing on essential agricultural practices such as feed efficiency, weight gain, and livestock marketing.
Participating in the Steer-A-Year program enables students, particularly those from non-farming backgrounds, to gain hands-on experience in the agricultural field. The program has an inclusive approach, welcoming both seasoned individuals and newcomers to agriculture. Tucker Lytton, an MSU graduate student and the manager of the program, underscores the distinctive opportunities available for students to immerse themselves in real-world cattle management activities.
With the aim of developing practical skills, the program allows students to either learn new abilities or enhance existing ones in a supportive environment. Currently, the Steer-A-Year program is home to 45 cattle, a significant increase from its earlier days when fewer than ten cattle were raised. Over the past 11 years, adviser Hannah Delcurto-Wyffels has played a crucial role in the program’s expansion and is dedicated to helping students connect with potential career paths in the agricultural sector.
To ensure the program’s continued success and sustainability, the Steer-A-Year program is currently seeking donations of young cattle and feed. These contributions are vital for supporting student activities and enhancing the overall learning experience. The program also provides students with valuable networking opportunities that may lead to careers in agriculture, thus expanding their professional horizons.
As the demand for skilled agricultural workers grows, initiatives like the Steer-A-Year program at MSU are becoming increasingly vital. By merging academic studies with hands-on experience, the program prepares students to face the challenges of modern agricultural practices and supports the future of the industry.
About the Steer-A-Year Program
Founded to bridge the gap between education and practical experience, the Steer-A-Year program not only focuses on cattle management but also on creating a collaborative environment where students can thrive. The curriculum incorporates various aspects of ranching, providing a comprehensive overview of the cattle industry.
Key Features of the Program
- Hands-On Learning: Students get real-life experience in managing cattle.
- Inclusivity: Programmers welcome students from all backgrounds, regardless of agricultural experience.
- Networking Opportunities: Students connect with potential employers in agriculture.
- Growth and Expansion: The number of cattle raised has increased significantly over the years.
- Support Through Donations: The program actively seeks donations to sustain its activities.
Conclusion
The Steer-A-Year program at Montana State University exemplifies how agricultural education can evolve to meet the needs of the industry while providing students with invaluable skills and experiences. Through continued support and outreach, this program can maintain its momentum and success in fostering the next generation of agricultural leaders.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the Steer-A-Year program?
The Steer-A-Year program at Montana State University combines academic coursework with hands-on experience in cattle management, allowing students to raise steers while focusing on various aspects of livestock care.
Who can participate in the program?
The program is open to all students, including those with and without previous agricultural experience. It aims to be inclusive and supportive of diverse backgrounds.
How many cattle are raised in the program?
Currently, the Steer-A-Year program raises 45 steers, which has grown significantly from fewer than ten cattle at its inception.
What are the main learning objectives?
Students learn about feed efficiency, weight gain, and livestock marketing while gaining practical skills in cattle management.
How can the public support the Steer-A-Year program?
The program seeks donations of young cattle and feed to help sustain its activities and support student learning experiences.
Chart: Key Features of the Steer-A-Year Program
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Hands-On Learning | Real-life experience in cattle management |
| Inclusivity | Open to students from all backgrounds |
| Networking | Opportunities to connect with agricultural employers |
| Growth | Increase in the number of cattle raised over years |
| Support | Seeking donations for program sustainability |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Additional Resources
- NBC Montana: MSU Program Offers Students Hands-On Experience in Raising Cattle
- Wikipedia: Agriculture
- KBZK: Obituary of Thomas A. Leprowse
- Google Search: Livestock Management
- Montana Sports: Excitement Fills Night One of Montana State Spring Rodeo
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Cattle
- Montana Sports
- Google News: Montana State University Agriculture
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