Supplementing feed with liquid molasses is one way to improve the nutrient density and digestibility of feed for dairy cows.

What many dairy farmers do not know is the many other factors that affect NDF digestibility outside of the hybrids they choose to plant and harvest. There are both dietary and non-dietary factors that can either negatively or positively impact fiber digestion.

Even when a farm does everything right prior to feedout, silage piles that are subjected to less-than-ideal face management have the potential for massive spoilage.

Close monitoring of dietary protein, shade, cooling systems and ventilation will all keep cows cooler during the heat of summer.

Successful dairies achieve consistent performance by implementing protocols that reduce variation within their operation. They do everything they can to limit the internal and external pressures cows face, while creating resilient animals that can withstand the pressures beyond their control.

One area that may not always be linked as directly as it should be to nutrition is animal health. In many cases, we tend to compartmentalize health and nutrition to a degree, handing the health program to the veterinarian and the nutrition program to the nutritionist.

Strategically grouping cows on the farm can result in efficiencies and benefits. For instance, it can lead to improved cow health, increased production, reduced incidences of metabolic disorders and increased income over feed costs while also offering more efficient nutrient utilization across cow groups, thanks to the implementation of separate rations.

As volatile markets push nutrient costs higher, consider diet options, market trends, ingredients and milk markets to manage your feed budget. 

It’s a world full of confusing, shifting, mislabeled and misunderstood compounds and structures.