Learn about growing tick disease in cattle at Stone County livestock & forage event

CRANE, Mo. – University of Missouri Extension state veterinarian Craig Payne will talk about a growing tick disease in cattle at the 95th Stone County Livestock and Forage Conference 6-8:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 5, at the First Baptist Church in Crane.

“This long-running conference will equip livestock producers to better manage their operations, stay economically viable and provide quality beef products for our nation,” said Tim Schnakenberg, MU Extension field specialist in agronomy.

Payne will address Theileria orientalis ikeda, a protozoal organism. It primarily affects cattle by infecting red blood cells, resulting in anemia. Pregnant heifers and calves are particularly susceptible. Once infected, cattle can be lifetime carriers, and there is no cure.

The disease is primarily spread by the invasive Asian longhorned tick, the most common tick in Missouri. First discovered in 2017 in the United States, it is now in 23 states and is prevalent throughout Missouri.

Also addressed during the event will be a question many producers ask when trying to build their herds: “Should I buy or raise replacements?” Field specialist in ag business Jennifer Lutes will discuss the economic considerations.

Schnakenberg will provide some tips on forage establishment to help producers strengthen their pastures and hayfields for 2026.

Southwest Cattlemen’s Association and local businesses will provide a free ribeye steak sandwich for those who preregister early.

There is no charge to attend, but attendees must preregister by Feb. 3 with the MU Extension Center in Stone County to order a meal and reserve a seat. Preregister online or call 417-357-6812.

Financial support is from Earlybird Feed & Fertilizer, FCS Financial, Four State Stockyards, Shelter Insurance – Hammen Agency, Simmons Bank, Stockmens Bank, Stone County Farm Bureau and the Stone County Soil & Water Conservation District.

Map

This map from the Missouri Department of Agriculture shows the growing presence of Theileria orientalis ikeda in Missouri cattle. The disease is primarily spread by the invasive Asian longhorned tick.