Jan. 23 2017 08:27 AM

Improving Performance Through Better Cow Well-Being

The information below has been supplied by dairy marketers and other industry organizations. It has not been edited, verified or endorsed by Hoard’s Dairyman.

"Improving Performance Through Better Cow Well-Being" is the theme of the Maryland Dairy Convention set for Wednesday, Feb. 22, at the Holiday Inn Conference Center, FSK Mall, in Frederick, Md. All dairy farmers, supporters and industry people from all over are invited to attend an exciting day program hosted by the Maryland Dairy Industry Association and evening event hosted by the Maryland Dairy Shrine. The convention moves to Wednesday this year to accommodate exhibitors and dairy farmers with weekend family events.

The event begins with registration and trade show at 8:30 a.m. and program at 9:20 a.m. The meeting features Nigel Cook, DVM, of the University of Wisconsin, Madison, who will keynote the morning program and give an afternoon presentation focusing on barn construction and remodeling, topics requested by previous convention attendees. Two breakout sessions take an in-depth look at the needs of today's dairy producers, including positive conversations about dairy topics, calf housing and a FARM program update.

During the day program, MDIA will recognize Dairies of Distinction. An afternoon workshop, "Telling Our Story on Social Media," will be presented by the American Dairy Association Northeast. The Maryland Dairy Shrine will host the evening banquet, starting at 6:30 p.m. with social time and silent auction. Shining stars of the industry will be inducted into the shrine, while outstanding students will be awarded scholarships.

Room rates at the Holiday Inn are $99 per night, mention Maryland Dairy Convention. Attendees should contact the hotel by January 22 at 301-694-7500 and ask for in-house reservations.

For more information on the convention, call 301-349-0750, e-mail secretary@marylanddairyindustry.org, visit www.marylanddairyindustry.org or go to eventbrite.com and search for Maryland Dairy Convention to pay via credit card. Attendees requesting vegetarian meals should call ahead.