Famed animal behavior expert to visit Utah State today

Temple Grandin, one of the world’s most respected experts on animal behavior, will be at Utah State University today to discuss cattle handling techniques and ways to reduce stress to livestock.

Corryn LaRue, a student at the university, said she has learned about Grandin since she was a child and is looking forward to meeting her in person.

“Temple Grandin is one of my idols,” LaRue said. “When I found out she was coming, I cleared my schedule. I absolutely had to see her.”

Grandin was diagnosed with autism as a young child and has made a large impact in the agricultural industry with her designs of humane livestock handling facilities.

Samantha Krieger, a student in the agriculture department, said this is one of the main reasons why she wants to attend the event. 
“I hope Grandin talks about her progressive treatment of livestock,” Krieger said. “I have my own operation, so I want to take her knowledge and apply it to my handling practices.”

LaRue agreed.

“I want to learn more about livestock handling,” LaRue said. “I hope to take what I learn and apply it to my own livestock facilities while being able to educate others about it.”

Krieger said this a great opportunity for everyone, not just those in the livestock industry.

“People that aren’t involved in agriculture have many misconceptions about the industry,” Krieger said. “Grandin’s presentation is going to be awesome exposure to the reality of what we agriculturists have been advocating about for so long.”

Grandin’s presentation on livestock handling will be held from 2:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. in the Taggart Student Center. At 5 p.m., she will begin discussing her recent book, “The Autistic Brain: Helping Different Kinds of Minds Succeed.” The event is free and open to the public.