If you aren’t yet familiar with balancing dairy rations for amino acids, you will soon be learning quite a bit about this newer nutrition strategy. That’s because amino acid balancing has the potential to improve milk component and milk production, improve protein utilization and lessen dairy’s environmental impact.

Potassium is a nutrient critical for the health and performance of lactating dairy cows. Large amounts of potassium are lost through milk production, so cows need supplemental potassium just to meet daily maintenance requirements.

When producing more milk is not a viable option to generate greater income – a common occurrence in quota systems – dairy producers must find alternative ways to make each kilogram of milk produced more valuable. One proven way to increase milk check profits is by increasing milk fat and protein levels, resulting in greater returns from the same volume of milk.

When producing more milk is not a viable option to generate greater income – a common occurrence in quota systems – dairy producers must find alternative ways to make each kilogram of milk produced more valuable.

No matter the market conditions – from high-priced feed to low milk price – dairy producers make money by increasing income or lowering cost (or both). While we have become very focused on the cost side of the equation, the ultimate goal for the dairy operation should be to generate more profits. One way producers can more effectively do this is by utilizing marginal thinking in decision-making situations.

More milk and components from each kilogram of feed is the basis for the feed efficiency equation. In countries where production caps have not been set, this idea resonates well since maximized production most often translates to additional revenue for the dairy.

More milk and components from each kilogram of feed is the basis for the feed efficiency equation. In countries where production caps have not been set, this idea resonates well since maximized production most often translates to additional revenue for the dairy.

Reproductive performance starts long before the cow is confirmed pregnant. While producers rely on metrics to evaluate their reproduction program, many factors – like nutrition, environment and health – directly contribute to an animal’s ability to conceive and maintain the pregnancy. One factor that continues to have direct impact on herd performance and profitability is uterine health.

Ration formulation decisions are not taken lightly. But when it comes to ration modifications, two questions steal the show: “What will this cost me?” and “What financial return can I expect?” The answers to these two questions are often the driving force behind change or the decision to keep things just the way they are.