Experts to present free educational seminars
on current industry topics

Again this year, industry experts will share their experience, knowledge and ideas to help dairy operators and dairy consultants make their dairies and their clients’ operations more profitable and efficient during 10 free education seminars. Topics to be discussed include agro-security, calf care, compost barns, dry cow nutrition, contracting heifer growers, cattle longevity, corn silage, manure management, hoof health and farm ownership transfer.

New this year, continuing education credits can be earned for members of the American Registry of Professional Animal Scientists (ARPAS) and the American Association of State Veterinary Boards – RACE Program (RACE). Credits that can be earned are listed at the end of each seminar description.

There will be two seminars each day during the show, Tuesday through Saturday, in the Exhibition Hall on the showgrounds. Seminars are structured with a 45-minute presentation and time for questions and discussion.

Tuesday, September 30, 11 a.m.
“Agro-Security – Safeguarding the Dairy Industry”

Consumers are becoming more aware of where and how food is produced and the safety and security of the food supply. Safeguarding production agriculture takes a coordinated plan involving government agencies, industry groups and, most importantly, producers.

Learn how to respond to animal health-related emergencies and the necessity of a comprehensive security management plan. ARPAS (1), RACE (1)

Tuesday, September 30, 1 p.m.
“Creating a Productive Environment for Calves”

The future of a dairy herd starts with its replacements. At birth, calves are at a high level of risk to environmental stressors. To ensure their health and safety, housing has become a critical area for producers. Good housing provides protection from stressors and helps to ensure they will be healthy, productive members of the herd.

There are numerous options available in calf housing with a variety of features. These features are designed to provide comfort and may be incorporated in new or existing facilities. ARPAS (1), RACE (1)

Wednesday, October 1, 11 a.m.
“Compost Dairy Barns: A Viable Housing Option?”

Compost bedding pack barns are becoming a popular housing option, especially in the Midwest. This new alternative housing system provides cow comfort and improved locomotion, resulting in increased milk production. These barns can also be more economical to build.

However, there are challenges. Recycled bedding requires proper management including stirring the bedding daily. ARPAS (1), RACE (1)

Wednesday, October 1, 1 p.m.
“Dry Cow Nutrition: Current Issues in Feeding Far-Off and Pre-Fresh Dry Cows”

The dry period is instrumental in ensuring a cow’s success for the upcoming lactation. A healthy cow equals a healthy bottom line. Dry cow nutrition continues to be a focus for researchers and nutritionists alike. ARPAS (1), RACE (1)

Thursday, October 2, 11 a.m.
“Building a Relationship between Grower and Producer”

As dairies expand, more producers look to custom heifer growers to raise herd replacements. However, when contracting raising replacements, it can become a complex process for both the grower and producer. Important issues like expectations, animal health and cost require discussion and understanding. ARPAS (1), RACE (1)

Thursday, October 2, 1 p.m.
“Longevity … What Should We Be Selecting for?”

How does the Holstein cow need to look and perform in order to last in your herd? Do you find yourself asking what you can do to breed and develop more long-lived cows? Join a panel of experts featuring Bennet Cassell, Virginia Tech Extension; Tom Lawlor, Holstein Association USA; and Lucy Andrews, Holstein UK, in discussing the health, fitness and type traits that can help improve your herd's longevity. ARPAS (1), RACE (1)

Friday, October 3, 11 a.m.
“Navigating the Corn Silage Maze: BMR, Leafy
and Other Genetic Traits”

It’s no secret that the costs of forages continue to rise due to high input costs and price volatility. This is especially true for corn silage and forces producers to carefully analyze the varieties of corn silage hybrids for yield, net energy and digestibility. However, not all hybrids are created equal. ARPAS (1), RACE (1)

Friday, October 3, 1 p.m.
“Sorting Manure – Minimizing the Mess”

As dairies grow, the need for an efficient manure management system is essential. Systems should fit the dairies’ needs while minimizing environmental risks. Determining what type of manure management system works for your dairy can be a challenge. Develop everyday solutions for your dairy. ARPAS (1), RACE (1)

Saturday, October 4, 11 a.m.
“Taking Steps to the Future”

Lameness has become a national focus for dairy producers and for consumers. It has become a critical issue both from an animal welfare perspective and more importantly from an economic standpoint.

In order to reduce or eliminate lameness, it takes more than just the dairy producer. Hoof trimmers, veterinarians, nutritionists and even dairy supply companies all play a critical role in tackling lameness. ARPAS (1), RACE (1)

Saturday, October 4, 1 p.m.
“You Can Buy the Family Dairy Farm, but Remember I Still Own It”

Family farm ownership transfer can be stressful and filled with questions. Addressing issues such as communication, emotional feelings, financial implications and future farm plans are important for all family members involved in this transfer.

Without the proper framework and a succession plan, the transfer of ownership for a family dairy farm can result in costly lawyer and legal fees. ARPAS (1), RACE (1) PD