Over the last few years, Canadian dairy producers have faced a rapidly evolving economic landscape. Feed costs now as much as ever are one of the critical determinants of profitability.

There are discussions in dairy industries in many countries about whether it should be an explicit aim to increase longevity. Some assert that retaining cows for longer lactations or more years contributes to sustainability because fewer replacement animals would be needed, reducing the environmental costs of these non-productive animals.

To mitigate bunker silo hazards, it is crucial to ensure safety protocols are in place when filling, covering and removing silage, as well as when handling gases and performing other tasks around the bunker silo.

Retirement looks different for each of us. For some, it means ceasing to work completely. For others, it’s a shift in responsibility from owner to operator. And for some, it’s as simple as not being “on call” for those unforeseen events, like a 2 a.m. breech calving or a frozen milkline.

This article provides an overview on safety practices that can prevent electrical accidents, both inside and outside the barn. We will also discuss specific steps to take if you or a piece of your equipment comes in contact with a live electrical wire. 

PTO shafts are a leading cause of entanglement fatalities, accounting for 30% of agricultural deaths in Canada. Ensuring safety when working with PTO-driven equipment is paramount. Regular inspections before, during and after operation are necessary to mitigate risk. The following outlines key safety procedures to follow.