Digest Highlights

• Second MFP payment authorized; enrollment deadline is Dec. 6
• AMPI ends production at Iowa, Minnesota plants
• Global Dairy Trade index jumps
• Four named to Dairy Council of California board
• Wisconsin Dairy Innovation Hub launched, convenes advisory council
• Michigan CAFO permit changes released
• California Cattle Council assessment begins

Dairy organization leaders took a more contentious tone toward ongoing attacks on the industry during the joint annual meeting of the National Dairy Promotion and Research Board (NDB)/National Milk Producers Federation (NMPF)/United Dairy Industry Association (UDIA), Nov. 4-6, in New Orleans, Louisiana.

Dean Foods has initiated voluntary Chapter 11 bankruptcy reorganization proceedings and is engaged in advanced discussions with Dairy Farmers of America (DFA) regarding a potential sale of substantially all of the company’s assets.

The sole on a cow’s claw protects it from outside harm, similar to the sole of a shoe on a human foot. Having thin soles is similar to wearing thin or worn shoe soles in that the feet are more vulnerable to ground surfaces when they lack that extra layer of protection. Since cows are on their feet for extended periods, excessive sole wear, linked with over trimming of claws, can lead to significant complications in everyday activities, as well as dips in production.

Most farms recognize the benefit of meeting to discuss issues facing the farm. But it can be hard to see the value of doing this regularly before things blow up. Editor Walt Cooley talks with farm family decision consultant Andy Junkin about how to start meeting regularly and keep farm meetings on track and productive.

We expect a lot from heifer calves in today’s modern dairy world, which requires more efficiency and consistency for success. Populating the milking herd with any heifer is no longer viable.