October 10, 2016
It’s a date that was a major turning point for our farm. It’s the day our calf program was literally revolutionized. But let me go back to the beginning.
We all have areas on our farm or in our lives that need work. When things slow down a bit, we start to look at weak points in our operation. Over five years ago, our annual calf mortality rate was 10 percent or higher. After multiple consultants and every kind of testing, by chance, we started feeding our calves bottles for a month instead of just a few days and BAM! Problem solved. Our mortality rate dropped consistently below 5 percent. Win, right?
Guys, they’re calves. The fluctuating weather, still wreaks havoc, but our little Jerseys are weathering through splendidly. Bottom line? Never be afraid to try something a little out of the box. My favorite farm hacks, often come from half mumbled offhand comments that we research, discuss, then try. I know that what works for me may not work for you. But in the year since we’ve started feeding ACV, knock on wood, we’ve lost three calves. That’s a mortality rate of less than 1 percent. I’m calling that a win.
Jessica Peters
The author dairies in partnership with her parents and brother at Spruce Row Farm in Pennsylvania. Jessica is a graduate of Pennsylvania State University, and since 2015, she has been active in promoting dairy in her local community. You can find her and her 250 Jersey cows on Facebook at Spruce Row Dairy or on Instagram at @seejessfarm.
