There is a need for a more intentional and strategic approach to heifer management, particularly in reproduction. With fewer animals in the pipeline, mistakes such as delayed breeding or missed opportunities can have a greater impact on herd performance and profitability.

Transitioning a heifer calf into a productive, long-term member of the breeding herd requires attention to many important factors, including nutrition, genetic and breeding decisions, and environmental management. Disease and health challenges, however, can undermine all that work.

Dairy heifers are in short supply – and they’re not the sort of commodity we can restock in a hurry. Read about the ramifications of the heifer shortage on milk yields, dairy product prices and livestock values.

I have had the opportunity to analyze dairy software files from dairy operations across many states in the U.S., and I still see great opportunities to reduce herd turnover costs within many dairy operations. Here are a few areas to consider as you look at how to plan for your future replacement costs.

Your heifers are the future of your herd, and getting them to an ideal weight at the proper age is important to the future success of your business. Following simple protocols to get them bred at the ideal time will pay significant future dividends.

With current milk prices, dairy farmers are trying to lower costs, while optimizing their return opportunities. With the average cost of raising a dairy replacement heifer at over $2,500, according to a 2019 Cornell Cooperative Extension survey, heifer inventory management and raising the right replacements is a critical part of that plan.