With drought and production costs pushing the native beef population to a record low, beef-on-dairy has a huge opportunity to keep the feedlots and processors at full capacity.

Prairie Farms Dairy announced the promotion of Chris Hackman as its Chief Operating Officer. Hackman currently serves as Senior Vice President of Operations, and will succeed Gary Aggus, who has served as COO since 2006.

When the going seems tough, don’t give up. Be brave, even when milk prices drop, feed prices rise and the next chapter of your farm seems like an uphill battle. Remember, the younger generation is watching.

The challenges that face the Golden State have quickly changed from drought to flooding and played havoc with the California agriculture landscape. This has forced several dairies to move their cattle to higher ground.

Each winter, alfalfa stands are at risk of being injured or killed by harsh winter conditions. Bitter temperatures, sheets of ice and heaving all have the ability to wreak havoc on alfalfa stands.

Most producers will tell you their No. 1 goal is simple: strive for cow comfort. That goal continues as dairies look to build a new barn or even retrofit an existing facility. The key is to begin with the end in mind.