This month’s VAS DC305 tip of the month is on reproduction. Reproduction is one of the most important areas on a dairy and can decide the level of success a dairy has. It not only provides the replacements and next generation of superior genetics, but also affects the cash flow on the dairy.

With a failed attempt to repeal and replace President Barack Obama's health care law, the Republican-led Congress now turns its attention to a second major campaign pledge, federal tax reform. Meanwhile, proponents of immigration reform are preparing for that congressional debate later this fall.

With an Asian “middle class” population ready to expand dramatically, the U.S. Dairy Export Council (USDEC) and the nation’s largest dairy cooperative, Dairy Farmers of America (DFA), are eyeing an increased presence in that part of the world, while protecting and growing export markets closer to home. However, in addition to a strong U.S. dollar, headwinds to dairy exports now include uncertainty over the U.S. trade policy, as U.S. competitors aggressively seek bilateral free trade agreements following President Donald Trump’s withdrawal from the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP).

Like the dairy farms making up their memberships, dairy cooperatives must embrace consolidation or face attrition, Dairy Farmers of America (DFA) leaders warned during the organization’s annual meeting, March 20-22.

Dairy producer and processors organizations took policy priorities to the Capitol Hill, March 22, as Congress continues early work on writing the 2018 Farm Bill.

At first glance, USDA’s monthly report might indicate the growth wave of U.S. milk production has subsided. But, when adjusted for 2016’s leap day, milk output remains at high tide.

The April 28 Dairy Cattle Reproduction Council (DCRC) webinar features ovulation synchronization (Ovsynch) programs, the basis for most timed artificial insemination (A.I.) programs in dairy cows in the U.S. Richard Pursley, Michigan State University (MSU) professor of animal science, will provide an update on these valuable pregnancy rate enhancement tools. The webinar starts at 1 p.m. Central time.

Northeast Federal Milk Marketing Order (FMMO) Market Administrator Erik Rasmussen has authorized the temporary pooling of milk disposed or “dumped” at the farm or other non-plant locations during March 1–May 31, 2017.

National Farmers Union (NFU) delegates identified federal policy priorities – including a stronger dairy safety net – during the organization’s 115th Anniversary Convention. Nearly 500 family farmers and ranchers convened for the event in early March in San Diego, California.

Leaders of three major U.S. dairy organizations promised to continue a strong commitment to their time-tested partnership with Mexico’s dairy industry and consumers.