Live Animal Evaluation Center (LAEC)

State Grant Will Boost Ag Research at WKU: Governor presents funds to foundation that will help with farm product

Story by: Jenna Mink, The Bowling Green Daily News

[NOTE: The cattle portion of this grant funded research will be conducted at the LAEC.]

As a struggling economy continues to plague local farmers, the state government recently invested in research that could help keep livestock healthy and growing.

Photo by Miranda Pederson, The Bowling Green Daily News

Gov. Steve Beshear presented a $26,257 check Tuesday to Western Kentucky University’s Research Foundation to fund research into Re-borne - a supplement that would protect horses, cattle and swine from diseases and stimulates livestock growth.

“As we’re experiencing a downturn of the markets, Kentucky agriculture must keep its way of life relevant in this global economy,” Beshear said.

Simpsonville-based Re-borne Inc. plans to produce the supplement using colostrum, an animal waste product that farmers usually dispose of. Re-borne officials plan to pay farmers, or offer them a discount on the product, in exchange for bovine colostrum, the first milk from a new mother.

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LAEC Running Strong

Previously, we introduced the WKU’s Live Animal Evaluation Center (LAEC) which saw its first cattle on February 1, 2006.  The past fiscal year was our best to date from several aspects:  We shipped 2043 head of heifer calves while realizing an average profit per head at $50+.  Given the changing market dynamics that the agricultural community as endured, this profit margin reflects the hard work and dedication put forth by our student employees, farm staff, and faculty that are involved with LAEC. 

The backgrounding unit continues to grow attention from students, alumni, regional producers, tour groups, and industry.  In addition to the 350+ guests that toured LAEC in 2007-2008, over 100 Western students received hands-on experience within an important phase in the cattle industry.  Ultimately, the hands-on experience, applied research projects, and networking opportunities created by the LAEC sets WKU apart from our competition.

Lastly, we want to thank the Celsor family and CPC Livestock for our strong partnership.  We are looking forward to another rewarding year!