Trucking manure is part of the strange nitrogen mathematics used in Europe as it attempts to balance nutrient use and penalizes manure based only on its nitrogen effect, without considering other nutrients, soil organic matter and biological benefits.
Dairy — page 12
Europe’s manure mathematics frustrate farmers
Strict rules limit nitrogen application depending on the form it takes when applied
Lameness stagnation: Why hoof health issues persist in dairy cattle
Despite years of identifying causes and new approaches hoof health is still a problem
Lameness is a complex condition influenced by a diverse array of intertwined factors, from cow-level elements to environmental conditions and management practices. It is often the cumulative impact of several interacting factors that leads to the development of lameness, making it challenging to control effectively. This interdependent nature of risk factors requires comprehensive and integrated […] Read more
Strategically feed the robot
Feeding more in the milking robot doesn’t mean more visits by cows
Feeding cows that are milked with a robot is more complicated than you think. It is not enough to add feed to the robot. It is necessary to ensure that the cow’s complete ration is adequate. How much feed should be added to the robot? What is the impact on cow performance? What will be […] Read more
Top genetics shouldn’t change much under modernized LPI
Lactanet to update its benchmark Lifetime Performance Index by early next year
The emphasis given to production and health characteristics will change in a proposed new Lifetime Performance Index (LPI) for Canadian dairy cows – with new weighting for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and enhancing “milkability”. Brian Van Doormaal, chief services officer for Lactanet, the genetic testing and data management organization leading the process, says changes in […] Read more
Dairy testing for bird flu expanded in Canada
Non-clinical dairy cattle eligible for funded testing
On June 17, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency updated their guidance for private veterinarians on highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI). The update noted the expanded eligibility for testing, and that the CFIA would cover lab test fees at any Canadian Animal Health Surveillance Network (CAHSN) lab that is approved to test samples in domestic animals. The agency will not, however, pay veterinarian fees for sample collection or shipment to the lab.
Good early-lactation nutrition cuts risk of cystic ovaries
A drop in proper metabolic function will pose reproductive challenges in cows
Glacier FarmMedia – Most producers usually wait until estrus appears in a dairy cow at 60-70 days postpartum, then place an emphasis on getting her pregnant by 90 days. This practice maintains a 13-month calving interval. Unfortunately, the onslaught of cystic ovaries in 30 per cent of all breeding cows makes it a challenge. Yet, […] Read more
Cattle virtual fence provides management options
Ontario farm is managing two groups of cattle with the new system
[Updated: June 11, 2024] Jenny Butcher and Wes Kuntz were like many livestock farmers and faced the costly prospect of rebuilding fences. One of the areas that needed work was in a rented pasture and that meant much higher potential rents if the owner had to rebuild the fences. They found a new option in […] Read more
Purple coneflower can aid calf immunity
Humans have taken purple coneflower, or echinacea, to manage colds and infections
A University of Guelph study shows that feeding purple coneflower to dairy bull calves has positive effect on immunity and inflammation levels. Purple coneflower, known by the scientific name echinacea, has long been used by humans to try and prevent the common cold, infection and skin wounds and conditions. It is thought to stimulate immune […] Read more
Starbucks sweetens pot for FCC sustainability program
Coffee giant to support ‘top achievers’ and ‘most improved’
Starbucks has joined Farm Credit Canada in its Dairy Sustainability Incentive Program, which offers Canadian dairy farmers interest rate rebates for sustainability initiatives. Why it matters: Starbucks says milk products are a significant source of the company’s carbon footprint. The announcement represents entry into the Canadian dairy sector of a company that has already made […] Read more
Trouw targets dry matter accuracy of dairy feeding with new app
DNA Connect allows for adjustments through smartphone or tablet
Accurately tracking dry matter intake is critical for dairy farmers, and a new app from Trouw Nutrition aims to make that easier and more efficient. One of the app’s early adapters, Clinton-area producer Evan Klaver, says it’s working out pretty much as advertised. Why it matters: Information technology companies see opportunities in marketing to the […] Read more
Cyber-Savvy Farmer
