There are many factors that can reduce a dairy’s profit margin and, with today’s financial situation, each cow must earn its keep. Herd information and data provide a wealth of information of financial results and performance.

Technology in agriculture is nothing new. The industry has always been innovating, from the development of chemical fertilizers and tractors to the use of animal health tests and vaccines. Digital and technological advancements in the last few years are taking over the industry, making farms more efficient.

It’s no secret managing the transition period (three weeks before and three weeks after parturition) is a critical determinant of productivity and profitability on the dairy farm. During this time frame, animals have large abrupt variations inside and outside their bodies.

The years of 2008 and 2009 are still very vivid in the minds of the dairy farmers who weathered the huge drop in milk prices during those years. This period of time, known as the Great Recession, is also stuck in the minds of the rest of the world.

Editor’s note: Click here to read this article in Spanish. In a matter of seconds, one small mistake can change a dairy farmer’s life forever. Did you know human negligence is the major cause of machine-related accidents?

High-quality milk is the ultimate goal of any dairy operation. Normal milk from high-producing cows is composed of water, fat, protein, sugars, minerals and other additional trace components. The quality of milk is still determined on the farm, and milkers have an important job in protecting the udder from infections and maintaining milk quality.

Employees are the greatest assets an organization has; thus, knowing them and caring is top priority. The foundation of employee engagement during the summer months is no different than at any other time of the year.

Cow comfort is a top-of-mind topic for farmers and consumers alike. Optimizing cow comfort is key to profitability on the dairy, as it is linked with higher milk production, reproduction and improved herd health. It is satisfying the animal’s needs, which can only be done by assessing each individual situation.