As we wrap up another year, I want to take a moment to reflect on what 2025 looked like for the UT Beef and Forage Center and, most importantly, how our work continues to support Tennessee livestock producers. It has been an honor to lead the Center for over two years, alongside a strong and growing team, now including David McIntosh as Coordinator and Malerie Fancher as Research Specialist. Every conversation with producers and county agents helps guide where we focus our efforts next.

Throughout the year, our mission remained the same: to advance Tennessee’s beef and forage industries through research and practical, science-based information. One area where that commitment really showed was in communication. The Live.Stock platform continued to grow, with a monthly podcast and newsletter that reached producers across the state. Our YouTube channel gained momentum in 2025, surpassing 18,800 views and 820 hours of watch time, and growing to over 800 subscribers. The UTBEEF.com website reached more than 150,000 unique users, while our social media channels helped share timely information during key management windows. We also continued working closely with Tennessee Cattle Business magazine, which reaches more than 7,000 producers statewide.

Behind the scenes, the UT Forage Laboratory remained a critical resource. This year alone, we analyzed more than 2,100 producer samples, helping guide hay and pasture management decisions across Tennessee. In addition, over 11,000 research samples were processed through the lab and the NIRS Consortium, generating nearly $420,000 in savings compared to traditional wet-chemistry methods.

On the research side, 2025 was another strong year for forage variety trials. New reports for annual ryegrass, teff, and brachiaria were released, and trials expanded to include 22 seed companies and breeding programs with 96 total varieties or mixes. These trials continue to provide unbiased, Tennessee-specific data to help producers make informed seed decisions.

Extension education was also a major focus. Several key publications were updated or newly developed this year, covering topics such as forage analysis terminology, broomsedge control, grazing season planning, toxic plants like poison hemlock, nitrate toxicity, hay feeding area repair, and updated pasture, hay, and baleage budgets for 2025. These resources were designed to be practical tools producers can use year-round.

One of the most challenging and meaningful efforts this year followed the impacts of Hurricane Helene. The Flood Recovery Initiative team worked tirelessly to support livestock producers in East Tennessee as they dealt with damaged pastures, fencing, and riverbanks. While there was no playbook for a situation like this, the lessons learned in 2025 will help us respond more effectively to future disasters.

Finally, we were proud to host undergraduate students and visiting scholars throughout the year, investing in the next generation of forage and livestock professionals.

As we close out 2025, I want to sincerely thank Tennessee producers, county agents, and our partners for your trust and engagement. Your questions, challenges, and feedback continue to shape the direction of the UT Beef and Forage Center. I look forward to working with you in the coming year!