Dairy Digest

Edited by Dr. Michael O'Connor, Dairy Digest is published bimonthly and features articles by Penn State's experts in dairy management, engineering, herd health, and related areas.

Inter-service Interval a Major Gap Contributing to Low 21-Day Pregnancy Rates

With the significant increase in adoption of resynchronization programs more routine determination of pregnancy status is being used.

What’s behind this summer’s low butter fat tests?

For many producers across the state, it has been a struggle to maintain fat tests above a 3.4%. This has occurred on non-grazing herds and has been fairly consistent throughout the summer, regardless of temperature. This seems to be occurring more on herds feeding a high forage based ration and on an average milk production between 70 and 80 pounds. The one commonality is these herds are feeding corn silage. What are some issues that could be challenging butter fat percent?

Concerns for Euthanasia and Disposal for Cattle

Many changes are underway regarding cattle than are non-ambulatory (downers).

Latest Developments in Calf and Heifer Research

The American Dairy Science Association held its annual meeting in Indianapolis, Ind., in July. Here’s a look at some of the latest research into nutrition and management of dairy calves and heifers.

Electricity Rate Caps are Expiring – Then What?

Just what will happen when the electricity rate caps expire in 2010 and 2011? That question is the same as asking what will happen when the deregulation of generated electricity is completed. Although the details have not yet been announced by any of the major investor-owned utility companies in Pennsylvania, I believe there is sufficient information to make some educated guesses of what may happen. In the April 2008 issue of Dairy Digest, I speculated on a few changes that will likely take place. Now I want to expand on my speculations.

Don’t Forget the September 30 Deadline to Apply for Fuel Tax Refund

Any person who uses liquid fuels in the actual production of agricultural products is eligible for a tax refund.

Workshop for Feed Industry Professionals

The 2008 Penn State Dairy Cattle Nutrition Workshop will take place November 12-13 at the Holiday Inn in Grantville, Pennsylvania. Feed industry professionals, nutrition consultants, and veterinarians rank this training opportunity as one of the premier events in the Northeast.

Women in Dairy 2008 Conference

Women dairy producers, farm employees, and agribusiness professionals are urged to mark their calendars now for the upcoming Women in Dairy conference scheduled November 20, 2008, at the Radisson Penn Harris Hotel & Conference Center in Camp Hill, Pa. “Leading the Way” is the theme of Women in Dairy 2008, presented by Penn State Dairy Alliance.