Efficiency, innovation and automation are all under one roof in a 12-robot, 900-cow barn at Herrema Dairy.

The right combination of management techniques, a good support system and optimal barn design makes it both possible and effective to incorporate robots into a grazing dairy operation.

In the mid-2000s, cross ventilation was introduced as the “dairy housing of the future.” Agriculture engineer Joe Harner and his colleagues at Kansas State University pioneered the concept of these mechanically ventilated, low-profile barns.

When building a new freestall barn, what seems like a small decision in the designing phase can make or break efficiency later on. On the other hand, a few simple tweaks can save time and stress after the barn is built.

Headlocks are a versatile feed front solution for any farm; they give any farm manager who walks on-site the ability to choose the management style that works for them.

Digest Highlights • Wisconsin dairy herds slip below 8,500; task force members named • National Dairy Board appointees named • June global dairy price index weakens • Whole milk buffers May fluid milk sales decline • FDA to enforce dairy labeling regulations • ADC urges FDA action on ‘milk’ labels • State Farm Bureaus press imitation dairy labeling issue • ‘Choose PA dairy’ promotional materials available • ADC seeking support for another dairy labor bill • CMPB launches kid-based milk promotion campaign

Just as the old phrase states, “You can lead a horse to water, but you can’t make it drink.” We handle our cows much in the same way, “Here’s the water, and there’s plenty of it, so drink.” However, dairy cow hydration isn’t just about drinking enough water. The full benefits come with proper absorption.

For the last year and a half, I have worked part time as a waitress. Initially, it was to earn extra cash and get ahead on my loans. Little did I know it would totally change my perspective on advocating for the dairy industry.

On May 13, 2018, 57 students from 14 different states assembled at the Kings Inn in Clovis, New Mexico, and slowly began mingling, introducing themselves to many and reconnecting with a few.