To improve cow comfort, health and milk production in the following lactation, dry cow management needs to include truly short day length as well as effective heat stress prevention. Done right, this approach allows cows and heifers to more fully express their genetic capacity to produce milk.

During challenging times, dairy producers are thinking about ways to improve their situation and maximize the benefits of the investments already in place, like long-day lighting (LDL) systems. While known to boost milk production, some dairy producers may not realize the payback on LDL only happens with proper timing of lights and recommended management for both lactating and dry cows.