Articles
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How the transition period influences the longevity of dairy cows
Managing cows correctly during the transition period is one of the most important factors for overall farm success. During the transition period, nutrient requirements change to support fetal growth, ...
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Quebec’s Modern-Day Dairy Farm
They say if you love what you do, you’ll never work a day in your life. It’s probably fair to say that even the most passionate dairy farmer would have something to say about that, and there’s n...
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Building a Dairy Legacy
There’s a special pride that is only felt by farmers. It’s the pride that comes from being part of a family-owned farm – the kind of farm that will be passed on from generation to generation. Fo...
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Know the six signals to monitor in youngstock
Successful calf and heifer raising can be measured in a few ways. Ultimately, the investment put into replacement animals results in a reduced age at first calving (optimum target of 22 to 24 months),...
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Providing a team approach for a more prosperous industry
This drastic increase in readily available information has pushed farmers to seek out various industry personnel to provide insight not only on how to best make use of the vast information but also wh...
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What is your dry cow program costing you?
When evaluating feed costs on any dairy operation, there are three main areas of focus: the lactating herd, the heifer program and the dry cow period. While many producers have moved to some variation...
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Maximizing herd lifetime productivity: Key factors and strategies to enhance longevity
Dairy cow longevity has moved more in the spotlight in recent years, mainly due to the economic and sustainability consequences associated with short animal lifespans. The decision of culling or keepi...
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What are the 6 Freedoms of a Cow?
The six freedoms of a cow outlined by a dairy farming training organization are space, rest, water, air, light and feed. These freedoms have aligned benchmarking goals to help producers realize higher...
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Using Key Indicators on the Farm to Optimize Quality of Forages
Forages are the basis of dairy herd feeding programs, and their optimal use has a significant impact on farm profitability. They provide cows with the nutrients they need to support their maintenance,...
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Manage Time Budgets and Space to Maximize Returns
The world has thrown a lot at everyone over the last two years. From jaw-dropping weather systems to record-setting commodity prices, the economic strain has been felt throughout the entire supply cha...
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Maximizing Your Return on Investment: Heifers
“I don’t know about you, but I’m feeling 22.” You might be wondering why an article on heifer raising is starting off with lyrics from a popular Taylor Swift song, but that line from her 2013 ...
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Feed bioactive metabolites to support growth, immunity and better calf performance
Raising replacement animals is a key segment of many dairy operations. Not only does it represent a significant cost, but it also demands an important investment in time and dedication to raise highly...
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Tested and True: Five Strategies that Improved Herd Performance in 2022
Strategizing to improve herd performance has a direct impact on financial returns. Improving herd performance may include a focus on reproduction, cow comfort, data analysis, ration optimization and, ...
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Reducing Feed Cost Checklist
Feed is expensive. The good news is: Successfully implementing feed management protocols can help to lower your feed cost. Feed management encompasses many aspects on a dairy, some of which can’t be...
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Processing Silage for Greater Profitability
Corn silage harvest season is just around the corner, making it the perfect time to step back and think about what can be done differently this year to maximize the energy your herd gets from this for...
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How Safe is Your Dairy Farm?
When you grow up on a dairy farm, it can be hard to see the dangers that exist all around you. From low-hanging beams in barns to the loose ladder on the silo or small rise in the cement, we can becom...
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The Protein Balancing Act
It is a balancing act when it comes to feeding protein. Dairy cows do not have a requirement for crude protein – instead, they require amino acids, the building blocks of protein. The main sources o...
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Enhancing milkfat yield in dairy cows: Proven techniques and best practices
Milkfat is an important component of dairy products, contributing to their flavour, texture and nutritional value. Milkfat is a key component of a dairy producer’s paycheque. Improving milkfat yield...