More attendees came to the biennial Western Dairy Management Conference in Reno, Nevada, than did in 2011. They heard topics that emphasized feed management, heifer-rearing, labor management and animal care, reproduction efficiency and facility design.

On April 22, 2013, from noon to 1 p.m. CDT, Dr. Paul Fricke will present a webinar titled "New Tools for Dairy Reproduction Programs." Fricke is a professor at the University of Wisconsin – Madison Department of Dairy Science. He is also an extension specialist in dairy cattle reproduction for UW-Extension.

Sixty-one students from seven western U.S. and one Canadian university traveled to Everett, Washington, for the 8th Annual Western Regional Dairy Challenge, Feb. 28 – March 2, 2013. It was the last of four regional competitions leading up to the North American Intercollegiate Dairy Challenge (NAIDC), April 4-6.

Paying respect to the contributions its farmer-owners make to the global marketplace, Dairy Farmers of America’s 15th Annual Meeting, March 18-20, explored the diverse ways the cooperative and dairy industry are preparing for the future. Nearly 1,500 members and guests convened in Kansas City for the event.

On April 8, 2013, from noon to 1 p.m. CDT, Dr. Victor Cabrera will present a webinar titled, "Economic Analysis Tools for Dairy Reproduction Programs." Cabrera is an assistant professor at the University of Wisconsin – Madison Department of Dairy Science. He is also a dairy management extension specialist for UW-Extension.

I love to plan a trip. In fact, if I ever left the field of ag journalism, I think I'd pursue a career in tourism. When I'm traveling for work, I always try to look for an opportunity to see something new or different. PD Editor Walt Cooley noticed that Indianapolis, Indiana, will be hosting quite a few dairy activities this spring and summer. (Those are recapped ) We thought we'd also outline a few activities and dairy companies you might want to check out while in the area. to jump to that section.

The Professional Dairy Managers of Pennsylvania and the Center for Dairy Excellence worked in conjunction to host the seventh Pennsylvania Dairy Summit February 6-7, 2013. The summit offered encouraging and inspirational workshops and presentations to dairy producers across the state. Keith Spicher, vice president of PDMP, welcomed visitors to the opening session and outlined a brief overview of the morning’s festivities.