Configurations of fans and misters or soakers are commonly the cooling systems on dairies, but two universities are trying to find alternative methods to reduce both energy and water use without compromising cow comfort.

In October 2016, the Dairy Calf and Heifer Association (DCHA) introduced its revised Gold Standards, setting a new industry standard producers could use to measure their own operations.

There’s no shortage of sunshine in Buckeye, Arizona, where average highs hit over 100ºF during the summer. Keeping cows cool in this desert climate is no doubt a challenge, but dairyman Nick Vanderwey thinks outside the box to get the job done.

We’ve all seen them, and most of us are probably guilty of ignoring them at one point or another. I’m referring to fans so coated in dust and other organic material you wonder how they still spin and, if they are off, you can only imagine the cloud that will be blown into the air when they do eventually start up.

As we move past tail docking, down cows and the handling of dairy cattle on our farms, there are a number of other welfare concerns emerging for us to address in the near future. These issues are voiced by consumers through social media, open discussion with food marketers and are often amplified by animal activism groups.

The ideal dairy stall is clean, dry and comfortable. Yet when it comes to keeping moisture and pathogens at bay, many stalls fall short. Whether you’re bedding on organic or inorganic material, optimizing stalls for maximum cow health and comfort is critical for producing quality milk.

Scientists at the College of William and Mary are using sound waves to interfere with birds’ ability to communicate about food sources and predators, resulting in flocks leaving the premises.

California’s third annual Rethink Methane Symposium was recently held to showcase the state’s efforts to use renewable natural gas to help meet ambitious air quality, climate and economic goals. More than 300 attendees were anxious to hear an update on the progress the dairy industry is making.

Accidents can happen to anybody, but most are preventable. Or, as my grandpa said, “Accidents can happen to anybody, but clumsy people have the most.” Please take the time to think before you begin a chore or task. Take that second to think, “What could go wrong?” “Is there something not right here?”