Progressive Dairy

Ruminating for better health

The use of rumination time in the last week of pregnancy can be used to predict the risk of postpartum problems and subsequent performance.

November 21, 2024

Ivan Avalos-Rosario, Eduardo S. Ribeiro, and Matheus Santos

One possible use of wearable sensor devices, such as collars, ear tags or leg bands, is to leverage the prepartum information generated by these devices for predictive assessments of future health and performance and for targeted management.

Hot chocolate and Holsteins: Ontario family farm hosts annual open house

Dairy producers in Wentworth County created an opportunity to connect with consumers through an annual dairy open house. Attendees can enjoy free hot chocolate and poutine while touring an innovative dairy operation.

November 20, 2024

Matti McBride

Free hot chocolate and an opportunity to view dairy cattle brings people across southern Ontario to Summit Station Dairy of Lynden. Braving the unpredictable late December weather, attendees can enjoy a free tour of the 500-cow dairy during the annual Dairy Farm Open House.

6 considerations to maximize cow comfort this winter

Maintaining dry, draft-free housing with ample bedding, proper ventilation, access to fresh water and a high-quality ration will set cows up for success as temperatures drop.

November 19, 2024

Dan Veeneman

Cold weather can have a significant impact on dairy herds, and failing to address these challenges can lead to decreased milk production, increased health issues and lower overall farm profitability. This article explores practical, research-backed strategies for improving cow comfort during the winter months.

Breaking down the year-end review: 3 areas to focus on

As you reflect on the past year, consider focusing on your calf and heifer and transition cow programs, as well as areas of improvement in your lactating herd.

November 14, 2024

Donna Benschop

As the year draws to a close, it is the ideal time to take a step back and look at each part of your operation and make a note of areas where progress has been made (and celebrate it!) and identify areas of opportunity.

Dairy Farmers of Canada: IDF World Summit, a new resource for dairy producers and upcoming events

November 12, 2024

Dairy Farmers of Canada (DFC) was on hand advocating for Canada’s farmers at the International Dairy Federation’s (IDF) World Dairy Summit in Paris, Oct. 15 -18.

Research Review: Advancements in dairy cattle welfare: Locomotion and housing

November 7, 2024

Research on dairy cattle welfare has increasingly focused on two critical areas: locomotion and housing. Drs. Dan Weary and Marina (Nina) von Keyserlingk have been investigating these issues. In a recent episode of the DFC’s research podcast series, they discussed the challenges of lameness detection, prevention and control and the importance of outdoor access for improving animal welfare.

What is a spray drone and how is it changing modern farming?

An in-depth look at application drones – what they are, what they do and what you need to know before operating one on your farm.

November 5, 2024

Lucas Weber

Applying inputs onto crops is a part of any production operation – directly or indirectly. So, how can we be applying these inputs so that they are more efficient and cost conscious? Many have turned to spray drones for the answer – quickly making drone-based aerial application a sustainable option for the future.

November 1, 2024 Progressive Dairy-Canada digital magazine

November 1, 2024

A tribute to Pam

November 1, 2024

Matti McBride

Life goes on and I'll make new memories in my truck, but I think everyone's first car holds a special place in their heart.

Questions to ask to uncover inheritance expectations

Conversations about inheritance with on-farm and non-farm heirs can be tricky. Here are several examples of questions to ask each to start the conversation.

October 30, 2024

Elaine Froese

One of the key fears of aging farm founders is the conflict they anticipate when the farming heir has access to millions of dollars of land and the siblings who are off to other careers do not have the same net worth opportunity in their future. Or do they?