Below are some of the reasons you should be reading this issue of Progressive Dairyman. Watch for this same graphic in upcoming issues for more reasons to read.
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Have you been asked some tough questions? Find out how to respond to consumers regarding dairy animal welfare. pg. 10 |
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The Scott Brothers of San Jacinto, California, are planning to implement a $1.7 million solar panel project. Is your operation ready for ‘green energy’? pg. 12 |
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Don Carlos Dairy in Costa Rica took advantage of their proximity to a popular tourist destination spot. What products and services do they offer to visitors? pg. 15 |
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A Wisconsin producer claims his milk comes from “rBST-free” and “humanely raised” cows. Are his cows different than yours? pg. 16 |
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The USDA announced a proposal that will reduce blend prices in marketing orders by 20 to 30 cents, resulting in a $1.5 billion producer income reduction. Why? pg. 21 |
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Milk pricing can be complex and confusing. What are some terms to know to understand the process? pg. 24 |
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A new program called CowSigns can identify and benchmark how cows relate to their environment. What can CowSigns tell you about your farm’s level of cow comfort? pg. 26 |
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Sex-sorted semen is a new and evolving technology. Will a higher number of sperm equal a higher rate of fertility? pg. 29 |
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Factors such as mold count and mycotoxin levels can play a big role in silage quality, thereby affecting cow health and productivity. What should you know about the ingredients in your silage? pg. 34 |
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With soaring feed costs, harvesting and storing forage is more important than ever. How can oxygen barrier film help keep your feed fresh? pg. 37 |
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Preserving silage properly is one of the most important ways you can contribute to your cows’ diets. What are the factors involved in proper silage management? pg. 41 |
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Oxygen is the enemy when it comes to packing and preserving silage. Can you fight the enemy with these packing density tips? pg. 43 |
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Sometimes the traditional benchmarks aren’t enough. How can fermentation analysis ensure the quality of your forage? pg. 47 |
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A father-son operation in Minnesota stores most of their silage in drive-over piles and bunkers instead of silos. Is it time for your silage to go from vertical to horizontal? pg. 50 |
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Smart producers know that when it comes to deciding on feed ingredients, they need to satisfy first the rumen bugs and then the cows. What else should you know when selecting your feed this fall? pg. 52 |
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Histories can make a memorable gift for your grandchildren and great-children. What are some tips for beginning your autobiography? pg. 56 |
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Find out why City Boy is in trouble with the law. pg. 65 |
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“Naturally raised” beef may be misleading to consumers. What’s Baxter Black’s improved suggestion? pg. 72 |
