As costs increase and values decline, how much does it really cost in today’s market to raise a heifer calf from baby on up to 24 months old?

Dairy farmers and industry representatives gathered to learn, strategize and position themselves for the future during the Professional Dairy Producers (PDPW) Business Conference, held March 13-14 in Madison, Wisconsin.

Grotegut Dairy in Newton, Wisconsin, is always photo-ready. As the Wisconsin Farm Discovery Center’s designated tour partner, the 2,700-cow dairy welcomes several daily bus tours filled with visitors from the nearby agriculture educational center.

Nathan Oakman from Deer Run Dairy in Adams, New York, has come up with a cost-effective solution for drying off and warming up baby calves in cold weather.

Dairy farmers and allied industry representatives attending the 2019 Dairy Strong conference received a mix of inspiration and practical information during the fifth annual event, held Jan. 23-24 in Madison, Wisconsin.

Between thawing frozen pipes and putting earmuffs on calves, hopefully these cold winter days allow a few moments to catch up on your reading list. One book in particular has got me thinking deeply and laughing loudly.

Instead of pointing fingers, a group of northeast Wisconsin farmers are raising their hands to acknowledge the local dairy industry’s part in groundwater issues and making a public commitment to solving the problem. 

Right-sizing the heifer population to fit replacement needs not only reduces raising costs, but it can also provide an opportunity for the best future milking females to thrive.