Management

Since 1970, the number of dairy farms in the U.S. has dropped by more than 93%, from more than 640,000 to around 40,000 in 2018. In an industry dominated by large organizations, smaller family farms face constant economic challenges.

The crossbred beef market doesn’t yet have a clear identity in the Northeast. Producers – both beef and dairy – who are early adapters are seeing some success in the markets, and the potential to develop a thriving crossbred beef industry in the region is high.

For 10 years now, the interdependent crossbred calf system put into place between Riverview Dairy and Wulf Cattle, home to Limousin genetic seedstock, “seems to be working,” spokesperson Lauren Osborn said during her presentation at the 2019 New York Beef Producers’ Association Annual Winter Conference.

Ninety-four percent of dairy farmers agree that low somatic cell and low bacteria counts are part of the definition of milk quality. That’s according to a recent online survey conducted by Progressive Dairy.

Whether the dairy is a smaller operation, with the family all pitching in on whatever job needs doing, or a large operation with round-the-clock specialized crews, effective teamwork is crucial to performance. Just like a successful sports team, effective teamwork – under the right leadership – can prime your dairy for success.

The extended economic stress in the dairy industry has farm managers taking a close look at all aspects of their operations to find areas to decrease costs, increase productivity and, ultimately, improve profitability.