Don Spiers, professor of animal sciences at the University of Missouri, talks with PD Editor Dario Martinez about the Thermal Aid app, its development and plans to make the app available to producers later this year.

There is a long tradition behind the dairy industry. As I am sure you are aware, it’s a way of life for farmers. There is no doubt that dairy farmers care for their animals and have a strong commitment to them. However, the growing disconnect between food producers and food consumers has led to an increasing number of questions about how farmers care for their animals. It is important that milk producers take an active role in sharing with consumers how they rely on both tradition and modern technology to ensure animal care and proper handling.

This is the first issue that was written and published completely after the end of this year’s World Dairy Expo. The show is always a great place to meet story sources, find new article ideas and meet with producers. Our group happened to arrive at Dane County Regional Airport in Madison, Wisconsin, at the same time as California dairyman Ray Prock. He was coming to the show to work at the dairy checkoff’s booth. We gave him a lift from the airport to his hotel. His parting words were to “have fun” during the week-long exhibition.

Click here to download a PDF of the latest Industry Watch List, provided by Dairy Management, Inc. PD

Click here to download the latest export watch, provided by the Cooperatives Working Together (CWT). PD

Click hereto download a PDF with images and facts about the university facility.

Protecting a dairy’s milk income from soaring feed costs has never been more of a challenge. Historically, producers have turned to the futures and options market to hedge against milk price declines or increases in feed costs. Now, thanks to the federal government’s willingness to subsidize insurance premiums, there are some other interesting choices available.