This article highlights the essential role of feed particle size and fiber structure in dairy diets, especially for cud chewing. Observations from dairies show a lack of cud chewing, suggesting insufficient forage fiber despite diets of corn silage and alfalfa. Proper forage fiber is key for rumen health and milkfat production. There is discussion about […]
Featuring expert advice from Dr. Jon Pretz, a dairy nutritionist, on managing cow well-being during cold weather. Despite cattle’s natural resilience to cold, he outlines four key strategies. Maintain Dryness Keeping cows dry is crucial, as wet coats increase energy demands in cold temperatures. Monitor Water Intake Ensure water is not too cold (ideally between […]
We’re highlighting the often-overlooked importance of water for dairy cattle, a crucial nutrient that tends to be forgotten in daily farm management due to its widespread availability. This insight comes from a reflection on dairy quiz bowl experiences and a recent Virginia Dairy Pipeline article by dairy extension agent Jeremy Daubert. Daubert emphasizes the vital […]
There is a crucial distinction between labor efficiency and productivity in dairy operations, and it is vital to understand how this difference can impact labor costs, which account for 10-15% of milk production expenses. Labor efficiency, often pursued to reduce costs, does not always equate to labor productivity. This distinction becomes clear in roles like […]
The October 2023 USDA Milk Production report indicated a slight overall decline in U.S. milk production, with a decrease of 0.5% to 18.7 billion lbs. compared to the previous year. Milk production per cow also saw a reduction, dropping by 3 lbs. per cow in the 24 major states. The number of milk cows in […]
In a significant development for the U.S. dairy industry, a bill was introduced aimed at enhancing USDA organic dairy programs and data collection. Known as the Organic Dairy Assistance, Investment, and Reporting Yields Act, this legislation proposes improved data collection methods, the establishment of safety net programs, and increased investment in organic dairy infrastructure. Meanwhile, […]
Widmar said the drought of 2012 remains unique in the crushing effects delivered by continued, extreme heat and lack of rainfall as summer marched on. In contrast, 2023 netted out to be considerably less severe than 2012. “While drought conditions were widespread and persistent this year, they didn’t get worse as the corn and soybean […]
Looking to catch up on the latest in the AG industry? The September USDA Milk Production report indicates a trend of decline. Overall milk production dropped by 0.2% compared to last year, marking the third consecutive month of decreased production. The cow population also shrunk, featuring 36,000 fewer heads than last year and 6,000 fewer […]
Ever wondered what influences the digestibility of fiber in dairy diets? Gonzalo Ferreira from Virginia Tech dives into the factors that play a pivotal role in determining fiber quality and its digestibility. “The concentration of neutral detergent fiber, hereafter referred to as fiber or NDF, is the major determinant of the digestibility and energy concentration […]
Amidst a fluctuating dairy landscape, Springers appear to be holding their ground! Maureen Hanson from Dairy Herd gives us a look into how these key players are shaping the industry’s future. “Dairy cow culling is at near-record levels and scorching August heat has docked milk production throughout most of the country. USDA estimates indicate about […]
