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As La-Niña ends, meteorologists say the next two months could determine whether we see a drought like 2012 or a return of regular rains across the lower 48.

Despite challenges, U.S. dairy exports set new volume and value records again in 2022. Export volume in 2022 reached an all-time high. Following suite, export value finished the year up 25% to $9.6 billion.

Feed prices tumbled lower while milk prices remained unchanged.

Good footing is essential to the health and performance of dairy cattle, especially in areas of high traffic.

Detecting respiratory disease in calves early – when treatment is most effective – should start by examining the head and facial features, according to veterinarian Tiago Tomazi with Merck Animal Health.

USDA’s first official net farm income forecast shows an expected 16% drop in 2023 net farm income, largely due to a decline in commodity prices and government payments with higher expenses and costs at the farm level.

If cash rent leases are negotiated via auction, Jim Rothermich is seeing prices drawing double – even triple digit gains. In Illinois, prices are up 90% to 120% compared to the previous year.

One standard measurement most dairies look at is the number of confirmed pregnancies in their herd. While preg checks often coincide with herd health days, more and more dairies have turned to blood-based pregnancy test.

Getting cows pregnant is vital to keeping the pipeline full. According to Jeremey Natzke of Wayside Dairy, a 35% plus pregnancy rate equates to an outstanding repro program and a number his dairy worked hard to achieve.

Practicing active listening is a way to strengthen your farm leadership skills by reinforcing relationships, building trust and better communicating with your team.