The Northeast is considered an ideal climate for dairying. Access to water, seasonal temperatures and a relatively close proximity to the marketplace all provide plenty of opportunity for dairies to thrive in this region.

During a busy routine schedule at a dairy farm, calves can be easily overlooked, and that is the biggest mistake a farmer can make. The future performance of a heifer is well-linked with her performance during the preweaning period, and being negligent during this period will translate into a less productive and profitable cow.

From Florida to California or the Riviera to Rio, from white fine sugar to black or “green,” locations around the globe claim to be the home of the “best beach in the world.” All of their claims to fame center on one compound: sand. Yet, the diversity of sand along oceans, lakes and rivers is astounding.

Whether you are building a new barn or renovating an existing structure, every dairy producer should strive for cow comfort. During the design phase, catering the facility to the cows’ needs should be the top priority. The end result: making the biggest bang for your buck.

Even with excellent nutrition, cow comfort and management, even the best dairies deal with lameness to some degree, often occurring as a lesion in the rear outside claw.