Don't make rash changes based on a single ingredient analysis. Repeated sampling teases out if this is true variation or an error. Feed and forage nutrient composition always vary to some degree. But limiting...
Silage piles aren't always a best buy. Producers and consultants often jump to the conclusion that flat feed storage is the most economical. They could be wrong
Fewer social upsets during the transition period lead to healthier, more productive cows after calving. Even without completely new facilities, social stress can be managed during the transition
The goal of a total mixed ration (TMR) is to provide a balanced diet supplying the nutrients necessary for maintenance and growth. However, on farms, the quality of the TMR may vary between days (in relation...
If we use a multi-prong approach to better hoof health - much like our udder health plans - we can see less disease and lameness, paired with more milk. Your nutritionist isn't to blame for your hoof health...
For good health and high milk yields, cows need to be fed the proper levels of bioavailable minerals. For mineral nutrition, the 2001 Dairy NRC is still the best starting point, but these requirements...
California and Wisconsin account for 34 percent of the nation's milk. However, market forces impact milk checks differently. The dramatic upward runs in grain prices over the last 18 months have hampered...
The replant window for corn can be quite narrow. Even though corn is a crucial ration ingredient, as the growing season progresses the decision to plant another crop
Raw milk has become a popular topic in recent years. Hoard's Dairyman has collected articles from our past issues to better help producers and consumers understand the ongoing debate behind of raw milk....
It ought to be an old saying by now: Consumers have the right to make choices, but expect some of them to be dangerous or stupid. In the case of raw milk, consumers are doing both. This time, though, the...
Those who support the legalized sales of raw milk do so with a zeal and passion that is rarely seen in our industry. Despite proponents' strong personal beliefs, science is not on their side. A study recently...
Frost seeding red clover into wheat stands will not reduce grain yields. However, it can prevent soil erosion, provide nitrogen credits and be fall forage in this double-crop system. If you grow wheat...
Tackling Johne's around the world While the human risk of contracting Johne's is unclear, many researchers and countries continue to search for new eradication methods. Reducing Johne's risk on your farm...
Another year has arrived in our dairy industry. What will it bring? More rain when needed? Better milk prices? Greater success in your dairy business? A new year is always a time to look back and reflect...
If you grow wheat as part of your dairy cropping mix, this could be a good time to try "frost seeding" red clover to boost forage production. But it is important to follow seeding recommendations. The...
I am working with a 600-cow dairy that is experiencing a unique pneumonia-like situation. The dairy is very well managed. When the symptoms appear, they are across all lactating cows, are random and begin...
What's in your milk? This article appeared in the January 25, 2012 issue of Hoard's Dairyman on the Young Dairyman page. The article discusses the components of typical farm milk from dairy cows
The simple design can limit induced stress. When used routinely, cattle can accommodate to its function, leaving a positive impression. She wrote this series with Paul Rapnicki, D.V.M., formerly with the...