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ROSEBURG - Raising beef is a business that requires knowing how to select and breed healthy animals, evaluate feed and forage, care for land and water, and balance the ledger books. It's a complicated business.

The Oregon State University Extension Service is offering a home study course on beef production and management. "Beef Basics" was developed by researchers at the University of Nebraska for cattle ranchers to review their production practices or for anyone who wants to learn more about raising beef animals. It includes four 12-week sections:

• Nutrition, Economics, & Forage Utilization;
• Reproduction, Genetics, Selection;
• Nutrition, Health, Management of Growing Calves;
• Beef as a Business.

Participants can sign up for any or all sections. Materials will be provided for home study and testing. OSU Extension Service faculty will hold discussions with participants periodically throughout the sessions. Sign-up begins May 1.

The program is offered by OSU Extension livestock and forages faculty in Coos/Curry counties, Douglas County, and the Willamette Valley (through the Polk County office).

Contact these OSU Extension county offices or Shelby Filley at 541-672-4461 for information on pre-registration, dates and fees.