Fourth-generation California dairyman Nevin Lemos credits his success to an entrepreneurial spirit and mindset that began at a young age. From selling sweet corn to dairy farming and now producing teat dip, Lemos wants to "build a sustainable and personally fulfilling business."

The 102nd Royal Agricultural Winter Fair that took place Nov. 1-10 did not disappoint. Showcasing some of the best of the best dairy cattle in North America, three dairy breed associations took to the main stage for dairy enthusiasts from around the world to celebrate in downtown Toronto, Ontario.

Jerseys have their own requirements and different nutritional challenges that we must consider when formulating rations.

Crossbreeding to beef sires is a powerful management tool at the dairy farmer's disposal using superior sexed dairy semen for heifers and beef semen for cows. This combination can significantly impact a herd's genetics and overall net return.

“I used to raise a lot of heifers just because it was cheap to raise them and if one didn’t work out, there were others to replace her,” Souza says. “That doesn’t work anymore. You have to be very intentional with the heifers you choose to raise.”