In the early 1800s, Adolf Brix introduced specific gravity measurements as a method to estimate the sugar concentration in liquids. Even today sugar concentration by percentage mass is measured using the Brix refractometer in the beverage industry, including for ripening wine grapes and other juices and beer.

Antibodies in the dam’s colostrum, specifically immunoglobulins G and A, are the reason why newborn calves are able to immediately combat bacterial and viral pathogens in the environment.

The most efficient way to increase profitability of dairy operations is to control costs while maximizing milk production. Recent research has focused on improving genetic potential and increasing feed efficiency.

The dairy industry has known for years how important it is to provide supplemental cooling to dry cows (Figure 1).

Opportunities for improvement exists on many dairies in second and subsequent insemination (2nd+) efficiency for lactating cows and age at first calving (AFC) for heifers.

The area of most confusion related to herd health management on dairies continues to be the vaccine program. It is rare to find just one vaccine protocol for any farm.

Each time the dairy industry experiences low milk prices, managers start looking for ways to save money. This is smart and something that all good businesses do. If less money is coming in, how do we cut down on how much money goes out without hurting the business in the long run?

Good calf and heifer management is essential for any dairy or heifer-growing operation. Everything producers and calf growers do, from colostrum to calving, affects the health of their heifers along with the bottom line of their business.