A desire for their community to experience the farm firsthand led John Carter and his family to create an annual event on the day their cows are released out to pasture in late April.

What sets successful dairies apart from the rest of the industry? According to agricultural economist Bruce Dehm, president of Dehm Associates LLC, there are four key indicators of success: efficient milk production, low or profitable cost per hundredweight, effective management, and financial stability/sufficient cash flow and equity.

The American Registry of Professional Animal Scientists (ARPAS) provides certification of animal scientists through examination, continuing education and a commitment to a code of ethics.

Held at the historic French Lick Resort on Feb. 7-8, the 2023 Indiana Dairy Forum was highlighted by three keynote speakers, a variety of breakout sessions, the Indiana Dairy Producers (IDP) business meeting, award presentations, and time for networking throughout the two-day meeting.

“[Switching from a traditional parlor to an automated milking system] primarily came down to the time savings,” Mallonee says.

“Feeding and supporting a growing population” was the theme of the 2022 Global Dairy Experience (GDX), which focused on large herds and was held Dec. 6-8 in Las Vegas. Speakers discussed a variety of topics including sustainability, technology and caring for our communities both on and off the farm.

A South Dakota dairy farm that frequently provides farm tours to industry members, farmers and consumers developed a solution to maximize visitor experience while minimizing the disturbance to cows and employees in their maternity barn. 

Dairy women from all sectors of the industry came together Nov. 1-3 in Minnesota for the Dairy Girl Network (DGN) National Conference, which provided ample networking opportunities for attendees and a variety of sessions to learn about topics affecting the dairy industry.

Nearly 800 dairy producers and industry representatives gathered in Boise, Idaho, on Nov. 9-10 for the Dairy West annual meeting.