Technology continues to push the dairy industry forward with bigger, better, more automated equipment – yet some old reliables are making a comeback. Manure gutter cleaners have existed for more than 60 years. They have stood the test of time thanks to their reliability, heavy-duty build and ability to adapt to changing farm needs.

This 2018 forage season was again a challenging one for producers across North America. In some areas, there were weeks of heavy precipitation, leading to saturated soils and even flooding. Other parts of the region had an uncharacteristically cool spring, with some sown crops needing replanting, which in turn led to a late harvest.

The outlook for dairy prices will be somewhat brighter moving into the middle of 2019, with a much more bullish forecast possible if the U.S. and China can reach a trade agreement, according to Dan Basse, economist and president of AgResource Company.

Finding and keeping a milk market has become less certain for dairy producers. Now, with culling at a record pace, farmers selling cows and other dairy-beef cattle for slaughter could face additional challenges as well.

Tell your story. Get on social media. Join the bandwagon that is now everyday life for the consumer. Odds are you have come across an article or person that has encouraged you to either tell your personal story or your farm story. If you know me – and odds are you don’t – you know I am on social media. I post pictures of our farm and write up small blogs on Facebook and Instagram.

No matter the situation, follow these steps to properly tube a calf.

How did you get started in photography? REINEKING:I took photography all throughout my years in 4-H and high school, where I learned the basics and things to look for when taking a picture.

It goes without saying how much your national and local checkoff staffs care about dairy farmers. We understand how difficult this year has been for you, and there is nothing harder than watching families we know exit the industry.

You’re busy – milking cows, managing employees and preparing year-end financials. With that in mind, Progressive Dairyman looks at issues in the news impacting you and your dairy business. In recognition of your time, we’ll attempt to summarize recent events or actions making dairy headlines and reported in our weekly digital newsletter, Progressive Dairyman Extra. Then, we’ll try to put that news into perspective and briefly describe how it might affect you.