Progressive Dairy

The overtime deduction and agriculture: Clearing up the confusion

The federal overtime deduction does not create tax savings related to agricultural overtime. Instead, it introduces additional tracking requirements to separate regular wages from overtime premiums for reporting purposes.

June 9, 2026

Brandie O’Dell

News of a new federal overtime tax deduction has created confusion across the agricultural sector. While the deduction has been promoted as a form of relief related to overtime pay, it does not provide a meaningful benefit to employers – and it does not apply to agricultural employees at all under current federal law.

Weekly Digest: More U.S. cases of New World screwworm confirmed, Canada restricts imports

June 8, 2026

Karen Lee

In the news related to dairy farming the second week of June 2026: More U.S. cases of New World screwworm were confirmed and Canada restricts imports, FARM Biosecurity celebrates updated Secure Milk Supply Plan and producer resources, and three Midwest farms earn 2025 High Production Herd Award.

Using the tools available to manage mastitis in automated milking systems

We can categorize automated milking system data into tools for detecting new infections in individual cows and tools for monitoring the herd level of existing infection. The tools will be more valuable if we use them correctly.

June 8, 2026

John Gerbitz

We can categorize automated milking system data into tools for detecting new infections in individual cows and tools for monitoring the herd level of existing infection. The tools will be more valuable if we use them correctly.

[Webinar] Dairy Market Update June 2026: Protect What You've Built Before July 1

3 things you need to know about bedding with manure solids

Recycled manure solids can be a cost-effective bedding alternative to sand, but success depends on disciplined management, moisture control and the right equipment.

June 5, 2026

Renee Schrift

Sand is the ideal dairy bedding source, but it is not always feasible for every farm. Recycled manure solids can be a viable alternative for a mix of practical, economic and operational reasons.

Economic Update: HPAI returns to Texas, Utah

June 4, 2026

Karen Lee

In the news affecting a dairy producer's bottom line the first week of June 2026: New HPAI cases found in Texas and Utah, farmer sentiment slips again due to high input costs, and the FARM Program released its 2026 drug residue prevention manual.

[Podcast] Performance By Design: Science-driven solutions for today’s calf raisers

June 4, 2026

In this sponsorcast, IFF Animal Nutrition & Health highlights its science‑driven approach to helping calves start strong and perform predictably.

Heat and sun safety on the farm

To minimize heat illness, move strenuous tasks to cooler parts of the day, use proper sun protection and stay hydrated.

June 4, 2026

Emily Krekelberg

Hot days and a blazing sun can be just as dangerous for the humans on the farm as it is for the livestock. There are many considerations for people to make while working out in the heat and sun, and they can make a big difference.

Betaine affects dairy herd health and performance during heat stress

Betaine is a natural ingredient capable of dramatically affecting animal health and performance, specifically under an increasing temperature and humidity index and heat stress-inducing conditions.

June 4, 2026

Gary J. Mitchell

Betaine is a natural ingredient capable of dramatically affecting animal health and performance, specifically under increasing THI and heat stress-inducing conditions.

Class III-IV gap widens to largest spread since 2020

May’s Federal Milk Marketing Order class prices are driven by nonfat dry milk and skim milk powder prices as the Class III-IV gap widens with Class IV once again on top.

June 3, 2026

Jenn Coyne

The May USDA Announcement of Class and Component Prices report is indicative of a milk market the U.S. dairy industry has not seen since 2020 as the gap between Class III and Class IV reached $5.40 per hundredweight (cwt), incentivizing depooling in Federal Milk Marketing Orders (FMMOs).