An investment on a dairy barn floor should set the operation up for the future. However, a faulty floor can lead to costly losses due to down cows and lameness.

A study coordinated by the University of Minnesota, in collaboration with the University of Wisconsin – Madison and North Dakota State University, compared the effects of the functional hoof-trimming method to an adapted version of the technique and found benefits for young cows.

Digital dermatitis (DD) is the number one cause of lameness among dairy cows around the world, but some herds are saying “no” to these painful lesions with a “zero tolerance” policy that works.

Playing the elite genetic merit game is not for the faint of heart. While the rewards are high, like six-figure sale prices, so are the risks. Cattle die, an animal’s estimated genetic worth doesn’t materialize or embryo transfer is performed with limited success.

One of the most vulnerable times in a dairy cow’s lactation is also one of the most physically demanding.

Progressive dairy producers, academia and industry personnel gathered in Reno, Nevada, Nov. 8-10, 2017, for the Dairy Cattle Reproduction Council (DCRC) annual meeting to discuss new and advanced practices to achieve outstanding reproductive performance.

It’s no secret the first few weeks after calving are critical for both the calf and its dam. Experience and research demonstrate this time and time again. The problem: Absolutely none of this research has asked if the current industry practice of separating a calf from its dam right after birth contributes to or might even be the root cause of postpartum issues.

Incremental growth and manure separation were the topics discussed during a panel of Pennsylvania dairy producers who shared their stories at the Professional Dairy Managers of Pennsylvania (PDMP) annual meeting.

Public policy and regulation is driven by many factors, and public perception is a major component. Avoiding negative public perception is one measure that may help avoid restrictive, unnecessary regulation.

I have often puzzled over the Parable of the Talents, as told by Jesus. I was taught it is a story about developing our physical talents – playing the piano, singing, writing, public speaking, etc. – but lately I realized it is much more. It is a parable about stewardship and taking care of our God-given blessings as well.