Silage Management

The Corn Silage Factors that Show Up in Milk Production

Mon, 04 May 2026 18:14:55 GMT

For most dairies, feed remains the largest expense, and corn silage continues to form the foundation of the ration. That makes it worth taking a closer look at what shapes silage performance and where management decisions can improve return.

On a recent Dairy Signal episode, John Goeser, dairy nutrition and management consultant at Progressive Dairy Solutions Inc., and Luiz Ferraretto, assistant professor and Extension specialist in dairy nutrition at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, , walked through how corn silage management is evolving. Their discussion covered feed hygiene, chop height, and other management decisions in the field and at feedout, and how those choices connect back to cow performance and milk production.

Their focus stayed on understanding how agronomics, harvest decisions, and feeding management show up in the bunk and ultimately in the tank. Rather than chasing trends, the goal is to evaluate what works within each farm’s system.

Back to Basics: Fiber and Starch

Many producers are taking a closer look at what defines good corn silage. Ferraretto brings the focus back to the fundamentals that drive performance in the ration.

“From a corn silage perspective, I think there are two main things we need to focus on,” he says. “First is fiber and the other is starch.”

Fiber and starch together often make up close to half the plant. But total nutrients alone do not tell the full story. What matters is how much of those nutrients the cow can actually use.

“If we talk about fiber, we need to understand digestibility,” Ferraretto says. “And if we talk about starch, we need to understand digestibility, because having a nutrient there but not being available does not help us either.”

(North Dakota State University Extension)

Goeser says it’s easy to focus too narrowly when evaluating forage quality.

“We are enamored with discussing fiber digestibility,” he says. “But it is only one component. There are really four components that drive forage quality with corn silage and equate to the milk per ton we’re ultimately going to look for.”

Those include fiber content, fiber digestibility, starch content and starch digestibility. Looking at all four together provides a clearer picture of how a crop will perform in a ration.

He also encourages producers to think beyond forage quality alone and consider total return.

“We need to take into account the agronomic costs and considerations, the acres needed to feed the herd, as well as the intake and milk production in our economic scenarios,” Goeser says.

Feed Hygiene: An Overlooked Limiter

Even high-quality silage can fall short if feed hygiene isn’t managed well. Spoilage yeasts, molds, mycotoxins and other unwanted organisms can be introduced at harvest or develop during storage and feedout.

“Feed hygiene i ncludes all the anti-nutritional components that can show up in forages or in the ration when it’s fed to cows,” Goeser says. “Even when forage quality is good, spoilage organisms can still be present. Those microbes can disrupt rumen energy use and reduce performance, almost like water in diesel fuel.”

Ferraretto points to yeast as a common concern in corn silage systems.

“If there’s a lot of yeast contamination for whatever reason, you should expect lower milk production,” he says. “That can be tied to lower intake, reduced palatability and also impacts on fiber digestibility.”

(Trey Cambern)

One of the challenges is that spoilage is not always obvious.

“These are not things we can see,” Goeser says. “We need laboratory testing. Infrared cameras can also be very helpful, because when we’re talking about yeast, we’re really talking about spoilage yeast.”

He notes that yeast counts can range widely across farms, sometimes reaching tens of millions of colony-forming units per gram.

“If we have 10,000 or even 30 million CFU per gram, that means there can be millions of yeast organisms in just a small amount of feed,” Goeser says. “Now think about how much of that feed a cow eats every day, and how quickly that adds up.”

Ferraretto adds that controlling contamination starts with basics in harvest and storage. Clean surfaces, good packing, and consistent feedout all help reduce spoilage risk. Soil, dust and manure contamination can add to the problem.

“A lot of different avenues could act and compromise some of the hard work that you put into preparing that silage,” Ferraretto says.

Managing Stability at Feedout

To help limit spoilage, both Ferraaretto and Goeser point to inoculants and organic acids as tools that can support stability under the right conditions.

For corn silage, Ferraretto highlights Lactobacillus buchneri–based inoculants.

“The Buchneri type inoculant shift fermentation towards acetic acid at a certain point,” he says. “Acetic acid actually delays the proliferation of these molds when we are feeding cows after opening the silo.”

Better stability can show up as reduced heating at the bunk and more consistent intake.

Jerseys

(Trey Cambern)

“If you’ve ever been to a feed bunk, put your hand in the TMR, and you saw that the TMR is very warm and the cows don’t want to eat, that’s what we’re talking about,” Ferraretto says.

Goeser adds that the benefit can extend beyond the bunker and into the TMR.

“Silage has a longer shelf life,” he says. “It can really be valuable… so much so that it can carry into the total mix ration and actually increase the shelf life of the total TMR to a measurable amount.”

For wetter forages, inoculants alone may not fully control spoilage. Organic acids may be part of the solution.

“I usually think about propionic acid as the potential savior when you have all that silage warming up,” Ferraretto says. “You can kind of stabilize that for palatability a little bit.”

Application rate matters if you want to see a real response. Too little product won’t move the needle on stability or spoilage control, even if the ingredient itself works.

“One or two pounds per ton isn’t going to make a difference,” Goeser says. “Fifteen to twenty pounds per ton would be equivalent to what a fermentation would create.”

Chop Height: A Measurable Tradeoff

Chop height is one of the most direct ways to influence fiber digestibility, but it comes with a clear yield tradeoff. Ferraretto shares results from a meta-analysis that breaks down the impact in numbers.

“For every 10 inches of increase, you have about 2.5 percentage units increase in NDF digestibility, about the same amount increase in starch, but then you have a half ton decrease per acre in dry matter yield,” he says.

On an as-fed basis, that equates to roughly 1.5 tons per acre lost for every 10-inch increase in cut height.

Goeser says that tradeoff deserves attention.

“To me, that’s something that we should be looking at each year,” he says.

Harvesting corn silage.

(Farm Journal, Inc.)

Response depends heavily on crop conditions. More mature corn tends to benefit more from higher chop height, while immature corn shows less response. Drought-stressed fields are generally less suitable.

“Drier plants benefit more than immature plants when you are increasing chop height,” Ferraretto says.

Field conditions also play a role. In fields with disease pressure or significant lower canopy dieback, leaving more of that material in the field can improve forage quality going into the silo.

“If we had a diseased field, it may be beneficial to raise that cutter head up just to limit some of that less digestible material,” Goeser says.

Connecting the System

Corn silage performance comes back to how the whole system works together. Hybrid selection, plant health, soil fertility, harvest timing, and feed management all influence what ends up in the bunk and in milk production. Ferraretto and Goeser emphasize that no single decision drives results on its own.

For dairy producers, the opportunity is in seeing how these pieces fit together across the season and not treating any one of them in isolation. Small improvements in multiple areas can add up over time, and measuring how those changes show up in intake, milk production, and overall feed efficiency helps fine-tune decisions year after year.

Spring is the Time to Inspect Silage Storage

Tue, 14 Apr 2026 18:23:58 GMT

As last year’s forage inventories slowly decline, many producers are starting to turn their attention to the upcoming crop. With less feed in bunkers, bags and silos, it becomes easier to evaluate storage structures and address maintenance needs before the next harvest fills them again.

Liz Gartman, regional crops educator with UW–Madison Extension, says this spring is an ideal time for producers to inspect silage structures and make improvements that protect next season’s forage. Producers invest heavily in growing and harvesting high-quality forage, but that effort can be lost if storage systems don’t maintain the right conditions.

“All this hard work can be negated by using silage structures that fail to preserve the crop or allow for spoilage or additional contamination,” Gartman explains.

Oxygen is the Biggest Threat

Regardless of how silage is stored, keeping oxygen out is the biggest piece of preserving feed quality.

“Oxygen is the enemy of quality silage,” Gartman says. “When air infiltrates silage, it can lead to heating, mold growth and secondary fermentation that reduce feed value and increase shrink.”

Many producers focus on the plastic covering used to seal silage, but oxygen infiltration can occur in several other ways. Cracks in bunker walls, leaking silo doors or holes in silage bags can all introduce air into the silage mass.

Before refilling any storage structure, Gartman recommends removing all remaining feed and cleaning the storage area thoroughly. Spoiled or moldy feed left behind can contaminate the next crop. In addition, acids produced during fermentation can damage concrete and metal over time, contributing to deterioration in silage structures.

Each system has its own maintenance needs, which is why spring is the best time to inspect closely, take note of problem areas and plan repairs for summer so everything is ready before the next silage harvest.

Inspect Bunkers Before Filling

(Farm Journal, Inc.)

Bunker silos are a common storage method because they offer flexibility and relatively low construction costs, but they require regular attention to maintain an airtight seal.

Gartman notes that oxygen can move through concrete walls and floors, especially when cracks develop from freeze-thaw cycles, heavy equipment traffic or normal wear.

Now is a good time to inspect for cracks in walls, joints and floors and complete repairs or sealing work as needed, while also planning ahead so issues can be addressed before the next silage harvest. Drainage should also be checked to ensure seepage moves away from the pile rather than collecting at the base.

Some producers line bunker floors or walls with plastic to improve the oxygen barrier, but care is needed during filling and feedout to avoid damaging those barriers, which can quickly lead to spoilage.

Bags and Piles Need the Right Location

Silage bags and piles offer flexibility for many operations, but their placement and management play a major role in maintaining feed quality.

Bags located in high-traffic areas, poorly drained sites or areas accessible to wildlife are more likely to experience damage or contamination. Mud around bags can also increase the risk of soil entering the feed during filling and feedout.

If muddy conditions are common, consider moving bags to a firm base such as concrete or packed limestone screenings. Leveling ruts and improving drainage around storage areas can also reduce problems.

Regularly checking bags and piles for plastic damage should be standard practice. Any holes caused by birds, rodents or weather should be repaired quickly to keep oxygen out and protect silage quality.

Silos Require Routine Checks

Upright silos are no longer as common on many dairies, but they still require a different set of maintenance checks.

Gartman encourages producers to identify areas where spoilage regularly occurs, as those locations may signal air leaks or structural problems. Walls should be inspected for cracks, while damaged doors should be repaired or replaced to ensure a tight seal.

Other areas to review include:

Roofs and seals that may allow water or air infiltration
Ladders, cages and chutes that may need repair
Unloaders, cables and pulleys that show signs of wear
Safety guards on moving equipment

Because many silos have been in service for decades, periodic professional inspections can help identify structural concerns before they become major issues.

Safety Remains a Top Priority

(Canva)

Working around silage structures carries risks, particularly when entering silos or working near silage faces. Gartman stresses the importance of following proper safety procedures when performing inspections or repairs.

For upright silos, producers should follow OSHA confined space entry protocols. Workers should use a harness connected to a lifeline, wear appropriate personal protective equipment and ensure equipment is locked out so it cannot be accidentally started.

Additional safety reminders include:

Wearing high-visibility clothing when working around flat storage structures
Avoiding the silage face and maintaining a safe distance to prevent avalanche risks
Working in pairs so someone can call for help if needed

“Always keep safety top of mind when you are inspecting and repairing silage structures,” Gartman says.

Small Repairs Can Protect Valuable Feed

happy-silage-face.jpg

On many dairies, maintenance tasks can easily get pushed aside by more immediate priorities. But silage storage plays a critical role in protecting one of the farm’s most valuable feed resources.

Taking time to inspect bunkers, silos and bags can help reduce feed shrink and preserve forage quality. When storage systems are well maintained, they do a better job protecting the investment made in every crop.

Brazil Turns to Sorghum Silage Where Corn Struggles

Tue, 31 Mar 2026 18:05:31 GMT

Brazil is famous for corn and soybeans, but in the country’s toughest, driest regions, farmers are starting to look more seriously at sorghum for silage.

Arthur Behling Neto, professor at the Federal University of Mato Grosso, says sorghum is becoming an important forage option for livestock producers who need reliability under tough growing conditions — without the high input costs associated with corn.

“Here in Brazil, as I believe it is in the U.S., corn is the main plant for ensiling because it has very good nutritional quality and characteristics for ensiling,” Neto explained during a recent episode of the “Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast.” “Sorghum is usually an alternative for areas that corn does not grow very well, especially because of the lack of proper rain.”

This is particularly true in eastern Brazil and drier parts of Mato Grosso where sorghum’s drought tolerance gives it an advantage. Economics also play a role.

“Compared to corn, the seed is cheaper and we use fewer pesticides. We also don’t need as much fertilizer, so it’s cheaper than corn for our farmers,” Neto adds.

As input prices keep rising, sorghum’s durability and lower price tag are catching more farmers’ attention.

Different Types of Sorghum

Sorghum in Brazil serves several purposes. Neto describes five main types:

Grain sorghum
Forage sorghum
Sorghum for cutting and grazing
Broom sorghum
Energy-focused sorghum, such as sweet sorghum and biomass sorghum

Grain sorghum remains the most widely grown overall. But when it comes to silage, forage sorghum and biomass sorghum are gaining traction.

“For silage, we use more forage sorghum,” Neto says. “However, we are also increasing the use of biomass sorghum because of its very high productivity.”

His research team is working to identify varieties that maintain good nutritional value while improving yield.

“What we are doing here is looking for different varieties that can produce more but still keep the quality that forage sorghum usually provides for the animals,” he says.

Match Sorghum to Beef and Dairy

In Central Brazil, sorghum silage is used primarily in beef cattle systems.

Forage and biomass sorghum provide the volume and fiber needed for cost-effective beef diets. Dairy producers, however, often prioritize energy density and may turn to grain sorghum silage.

“When we talk about dairy cattle, some farmers look for grain sorghum because it has higher energy content and lower fiber,” Neto explains. “It is close enough to corn.”

Although grain sorghum produces less tonnage than forage types, its nutritional profile can better match the needs of dairy cows.

forage_sorghum

(John Bernard/UGA)

The Yield and Quality Trade-Off

One of the main challenges with sorghum silage is balancing yield and nutritional quality. Grain sorghum plants are relatively short and produce lower yields, but they deliver higher energy concentrations.

“Grain sorghum usually grows about 3.5' to 5' tall and produces around 10 to 14 tons per acre,” Neto says. “The yield is not very high, but the energy content is.”

Forage sorghum grows much taller and delivers substantially more tonnage.

“Our forage sorghum can reach 8' to 12' in height and produce between 18 and 32 tons per acre,” he explains.

Biomass sorghum pushes yields even further. Neto’s research team is evaluating varieties capable of producing 35 to 55 tons per acre.

However, extremely high yields often come with reduced feed quality.

“When we reach these very high yields, fiber content can go up to 70%,” Neto says. “Crude protein can drop to about 5% to 6%, and lignin can reach 8% to 10%.”

Because of this, his team is searching for hybrids that maintain nutritional value while still delivering strong yields.

sorghum

(Darrell Smith)

Managing Tall Crops

Biomass sorghum can grow exceptionally tall, sometimes reaching 14' to 20'. To manage these large plants, producers typically harvest them in two cuttings rather than waiting for full maturity.

“Our biomass sorghum has a cycle of about 180 days,” Neto says. “We plant at the beginning of the rainy season in October. The first cut is usually in December or January, and the second cut happens around April.”

Plants are typically cut about 8" above the soil surface.

For silage, Neto generally targets 28% to 30% dry matter. While the traditional recommendation is 30% to 35%, slightly earlier harvest can help prevent grain from becoming too hard for animals to digest.

Sugar Content and Fermentation

Sorghum also contains significant levels of natural sugars, which can aid fermentation.

“For forage sorghum, we usually have between 15% to 18% water-soluble carbohydrates,” Neto says. “That’s very good for ensiling.”

Biomass sorghum tends to fall slightly lower, around 12% to 15%. Sweet sorghum, however, can contain dramatically higher sugar levels.

“Sweet sorghum can reach 30% to 35% water-soluble carbohydrates.”

While these sugars help drive fermentation, they can also lead to ethanol production, similar to what occurs with sugarcane silage.

“We sometimes have problems with ethanol fermentation,” Neto explains. “But with proper additives, we can still produce very good sweet sorghum silage.”

Forage_Sorghum

A Complement to Corn

Despite its growing role, Neto emphasizes sorghum is not meant to replace corn silage entirely.

“Sorghum silage is increasing in Brazil because it is a cheaper alternative for some farmers,” he says. “However, I do not believe it will reach the same levels as corn silage.”

Instead, he sees sorghum as a complementary crop that provides flexibility when corn production becomes difficult.

“We don’t want it to substitute corn,” Neto says. “We only want to use it when corn cannot produce very well.”

For farmers working in hotter, drier regions with limited inputs, that flexibility may be exactly where sorghum silage delivers the most value.

For more on silage, read:

Better Timing Your Triticale Silage Harvest Pays Off

Tue, 24 Mar 2026 20:01:13 GMT

Small-grains like triticale are a familiar part of the forage program on many dairy farms. But deciding when to harvest them can influence far more than just yield.

Sarah Morrison, a dairy nutrition research scientist at the William H. Miner Agricultural Research Institute, explains that the decision of when to harvest small-grains is often influenced by the balance of forage inventories, crop rotations, nutrient management plans and weather conditions. She adds that how closely harvest timing aligns with forage maturity can influence the nutritional composition and digestibility of the harvested forage.

With so many factors influencing harvest timing, it helps to understand the differences between the various maturity stages.

Boot stage vs. Soft-Dough Stage

Harvesting triticale earlier generally produces higher-quality forage, according to Morrison. She notes that studies comparing triticale harvested at the boot stage with triticale harvested at the soft-dough stage consistently show clear nutritional differences.

The boot stage occurs when the developing grain head is still enclosed in the flag leaf sheath. At this point, the plant is less mature, which typically results in higher crude protein, lower fiber levels and greater digestibility, though overall yield is usually lower.

The soft-dough stage occurs later in plant development after the grain head has emerged and kernels have formed. While harvesting at this stage increases yield and adds some starch from the developing grain, the plant fiber is more mature, leading to higher neutral detergent fiber (NDF) and lower digestibility.

“In general, by harvesting at the boot stage the forage has higher crude protein, lower neutral detergent fiber (NDF) and higher NDF digestibility,” she says. “However, forage yield may be lower when harvested at this earlier maturity.”

That trade-off often raises a question for producers. Does forage maturity actually impact ration cost or cow performance? Some research suggests the impact may be small when diets are balanced for forage quality.

“When compared from a least-cost ration-formulation standpoint, some work indicates that the harvest maturity of small-grains has minimal effect on feed cost,” Morrison explains. “This may be true as we balance around the quality of the forage included in the diet, but this doesn’t necessarily mean cows won’t respond to better-quality feed.”

New Research on Triticale Maturity

A recent study published in the Journal of Dairy Science evaluated how triticale maturity affects cow performance when included in rations with different forage levels. The research compared triticale harvested at the boot stage or soft-dough stage and fed within either low-forage or high-forage diets.

The high-forage diets contained 52% forage, while the low-forage diets contained 37%. In both cases, triticale made up 49% of the forage portion, with corn silage providing the remainder.

Morrison notes that the nutritional differences between maturity stages were substantial. Boot-stage triticale contained 16.7% crude protein and 51.1% NDF, while soft-dough triticale had only 8.7% crude protein and 62.6% NDF. The later-harvested forage also contained higher levels of lignin and undigestible fiber.

Milk Production Response

Those nutritional differences affected how the cows performed in several ways.

Cows fed boot-stage triticale produced 7.7 lbs. more milk per day than cows fed soft-dough triticale across both forage-inclusion levels. Diet structure also played a role, as cows on lower-forage diets produced 8.6 lbs more milk than those on higher-forage diets.

Milk components responded differently. While cows fed the soft-dough triticale had slightly higher milkfat percentage, overall milkfat yield remained similar due to lower milk volume.

Protein production told a different story. Cows fed boot-stage triticale had both higher milk protein content and greater protein yield. They also tended to produce more energy-corrected milk.

Digestibility differences were another key factor. Morrison notes that cows fed boot-stage triticale had higher total-tract digestibility for both dry matter and NDF. Meanwhile, the higher levels of undigestible fiber in the soft-dough triticale likely limited intake in higher-forage diets due to increased rumen fill.

Balancing Quality and Practicality

While the study highlights the performance advantages of earlier-harvested triticale, Morrison emphasizes that real-world feeding programs often balance forage inventories and costs.

“Overall, maturity does seem to play a role when incorporated into dairy cow diets,” she says. “The expected or observed response might be more pronounced in different forage inclusion levels of the diet.”

However, the difference isn’t as big when the ration is already adjusted for the forage quality on hand.

“Although cost and inventory may be critical considerations for the utility of small-grain silages in the diets of lactating dairy cows,” Morrison notes.

In other words, harvest timing still matters, but how that forage fits into the rest of the ration often determines how much cows respond to it.

For more on silage, read:

Camelina: A New Cover Crop Option After Corn Silage?

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 20:47:32 GMT

After corn silage comes off, dairy farmers will often consider seeding fields to winter rye as a cover crop. It’s an easy, familiar option that establishes reliably in the fall and helps take up residual nitrogen from the soil.

However, that heavy nitrogen uptake can sometimes contribute to a yield drag in the following corn crop. This limitation has prompted growing interest in a lesser-known alternative. Camelina sativa, also sometimes referred to as false flax, is an oilseed researchers are evaluating as a cover crop that could bring added flexibility to dairy rotations.

While much of the crop’s earlier production has occurred in western dryland regions, winter camelina is now generating interest in the upper Midwest as an overwintering cover crop that can fit into rotations with corn and soybeans. And for dairy producers who are working with a continuous corn, camelina could be a useful option after corn silage to help with disease, weeds and nutrient loss.

A Smart Choice for Corn-Heavy Fields

Camelina belongs to the Brassicaceae family, like canola and mustard, which makes it different from grasses such as corn and rye. Because it’s not a grass, camelina can fit into rotations in ways that help break pest and disease cycles. Agronomists say this also means it can provide many of the same environmental benefits as rye, like reducing nitrate loss and protecting soil, without some of rye’s potential drawbacks.

“A lot of people are concerned with using rye because it might cause yield drag,” says Anastasia Kurth, a University of Wisconsin Extension agronomist and educator. “Rye takes up a lot of nitrogen, which is great for reducing nitrates in our groundwater. But if you’re planting corn silage afterward and really want high tonnage, camelina might be a better option.”

Kurth notes camelina also generally produces less biomass than rye, which can make spring management simpler.

“I would say it’s a pretty easy entry cover crop,” Kurth adds. “There’s little-to-no yield effect on the corn following the cover crop.”

Termination is also straightforward.

“It’s very easy to kill,” Kurth notes. “With rye or winter wheat, you often have a lot of biomass that’s hard to manage and can make planting difficult. Camelina doesn’t have that issue, so I’d call it a low-risk entry cover crop for someone looking to try something new.”

However, camelina doesn’t have to replace rye entirely. For farms that rely on rye for spring forage, the two crops can potentially be grown together.

“It definitely could be [a sweet spot], because if you want to take that rye for any forage, that could be an option as well,” Kurth says. “I think that could be a really great mix for folks.”

Recommended rates in a mixed stand include roughly 30 lb. per acre of rye with 3 lb. to 5 lb. per acre of camelina.

A Natural Fit After Corn Silage

According to Kurth, corn silage harvest provides one of the best opportunities for getting camelina established.

“Silage gives us a great opportunity to get the crop in,” she says. “It comes off earlier than grain corn, which provides plenty of time for establishment.”

In Wisconsin and other northern states with similar climates, camelina is typically planted from September through early October. The crop establishes quickly and forms a small rosette before going dormant over the winter.

Kurth says silage harvest also leaves conditions that favor camelina establishment.

“Silage removes more of the residue, and camelina really likes good seed-to-soil contact,” Kurth says. “So, when there’s a little less residue left after a silage harvest, it’s more beneficial for establishing the crop.”

Seed size is also an important consideration. Camelina seed is extremely small, with roughly 400,000 seeds per pound, meaning proper seeding depth and seed-to-soil contact are essential. Kurth notes drilling is generally recommended at about 6 lb. to 8 lb. per acre, though broadcasting can also work with slightly higher seeding rates.

A Natural Option for Managing Weeds

Another reason camelina is drawing interest is its potential role in weed suppression.

“Leaving corn silage ground bare is obviously a risk for weeds popping up,” Kurth says.

As a brassica crop, camelina produces compounds called glucosinolates. Kurth notes these compounds are known for their biofumigant properties and may help suppress certain weed species.

“Just that chemical compound being in the soil reduces some of those smaller seeded weeds,” she adds.

Early field observations hint that the effect could be meaningful in some situations.

“Some farmers struggle with heavy waterhemp pressure in their fields,” Kurth says. “But in fields planted with camelina, they didn’t see any waterhemp emerge — only large ragweed. It looks like camelina may be helping suppress the waterhemp.”

A Cover Crop Ready for Its Turn in the Field

While still in the early adoption phase, camelina is steadily moving from research plots into real farm rotations. As more dairy producers look for ways to reduce nutrient loss, manage weeds and protect soil without sacrificing corn silage yield, the ancient oilseed may offer a practical new option. For many farms, the next step may simply be trying camelina on a few acres after silage and seeing how it performs in their own system.

Does Short Corn Stack Up as a Silage Option?

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 21:33:35 GMT

Brown midrib (BMR) corn silage has long been a go‑to forage option for dairy farmers looking to improve fiber digestibility and maintain strong milk production. But as seed companies begin to phase out their BMR offerings, producers and nutritionists are evaluating other silage strategies.

One option gaining attention is short-stature corn.

How Short Corn Works

Short-stature corn hybrids are designed to change the structure of the plant without sacrificing its productivity. Instead of growing tall stalks, these hybrids shorten the space between leaves, known as internodes. The plant still produces a similar number of leaves and ears, but the overall plant height is reduced.

Luiz Ferraretto, assistant professor and Extension specialist in dairy nutrition at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, shares his thoughts on short-stature corn, explaining the altered plant structure may also affect how fiber is distributed within the stalk.

“Basically, [short-stature corn] has shorter internodes, and there are some claims that there are changes in lignin distribution within the stalk,” Ferraretto says.

As researchers take a closer look at how these shorter plants are built, the early results are looking pretty promising. Trials in both Italy and the U.S. show the shorter stalk structure seems to boost forage quality. Across several plots, short‑stature corn has consistently come in with higher starch and better‑digesting fiber compared with regular hybrids.

This plot data matches what university researchers are seeing, too. At Michigan State University, Mike VandeHaar, a professor of animal science, has seen similar trends in fiber digestibility and yield with short corn. During a recent “Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt” podcast, he explained how his team ran studies comparing short hybrids with conventional tall corn and BMR varieties to see how they performed side by side.

“We compared three short corn varieties with a conventional tall hybrid and a BMR variety. We treated the conventional corn as the low-fiber-digestibility baseline and the BMR as the high-fiber-digestibility benchmark to see where the short corn fit in between,” VandeHaar says.

In the trial, the team measured fiber digestibility using 30-hour in vitro NDF.

“What we found was the shorts really did have better fiber digestibility than the tall. The BMR had higher in vitro NDF digestibility at 30 hours, like 65% versus 55%, and the shorts were all around 60%,” he says.

These differences suggest short corn could offer a real nutritional advantage over conventional hybrids.

Yield Performance

Those nutritional gains didn’t seem to come at the expense of tonnage. In the Italian trials, short corn yielded right with conventional hybrids and even topped the BMR in that dataset. Ferraretto notes the bump in starch and better NDF digestibility didn’t show any clear yield penalty.

John Goeser, dairy nutrition and management consultant at Progressive Dairy Solutions Inc., added his thoughts on how short corn performs at higher plant populations.

“Generally speaking with greater plant populations, say 40,000 to 45,000, we see a decrease in fiber digestibility,” Goeser says. “Yield will actually increase, but there’s usually a trade-off between quality and yield. The fact that short corn is being planted at higher populations and still maintaining — or improving — fiber digestibility is intriguing.”

Milk Production Response

For dairy farmers, forage quality only matters if it translates into milk production. Feeding trials with short corn silage suggest these hybrids can boost milk in a way that differs from BMR. Ferraretto described a trial in Italy where cows started on a common diet before switching to rations containing either conventional or short corn silage.

“What we saw change was milk production,” Ferraretto says. “Feed intake didn’t really differ between groups. That’s important because with BMR, almost every trial increases intake to drive more milk. Short corn seems to work differently — milk went up without cows eating more. I don’t know if that’s better, but it’s promising and interesting to see this kind of response.”

At Michigan State University, VandeHaar structured diets to limit cows by gut fill, ensuring improvements in fiber digestibility would show up as a milk response.

“I fed diets that had more forage NDF than I would normally even feed to cows in about 200 days in milk, and when I put them on my diet, milk production dropped about five pounds or so, showing that they were, in fact, limited by fill. So therefore, if I had a forage with better NDF digestibility, I would have expected a response, and we did, in fact, see that,” VandeHaar says.

That improvement appeared as increased energy-corrected milk. In a follow-up trial, the same short hybrid was compared with conventional tall corn at two starch levels, 32% and 24%. The advantage for short corn persisted.

“We went on and did another study with that variety,” VandeHaar adds. “In both cases, the cows fed the short produced about two kilos, so about four or five pounds more energy corrected milk than the conventional.”

What it Means for Silage Decisions

As BMR availability changes, dairy farms may need to consider multiple strategies to maintain silage quality. Hybrid selection, harvest timing, kernel processing and ration formulation all affect fiber digestibility and milk production. But adding short-stature corn to your silage lineup may be another tool to add to your toolbox.

Short corn is unlikely to fully replace BMR, but early results suggest it could provide another option for high-quality silage. As more trials are conducted and management practices become clearer, producers will better understand how short corn fits into their forage programs.

Life After BMR: How Dairy Farmers Can Rethink Corn Silage

Fri, 06 Mar 2026 22:23:06 GMT

For years, brown midrib (BMR) corn silage has been a solid forage option for dairy producers looking to push forage quality and milk production. While it was rarely planted across an entire farm, many producers valued BMR as a strategic addition to their hybrid lineup.

But as seed companies have adjusted their hybrid portfolios, BMR options have become less available. As a result, many producers are preparing for a future where BMR is no longer a choice, and they are reevaluating their silage plans with that change in mind.

During the Professional Dairy Producers Business Conference, John Goeser, dairy nutrition and management consultant at Progressive Dairy Solutions Inc., and Luiz Ferraretto, assistant professor and Extension specialist in dairy nutrition at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, discussed what that shift could mean for dairy rations and how producers can adapt.

What BMR Offered

Compared with conventional corn silage, BMR hybrids typically deliver greater fiber digestibility and lower levels of undigestible fiber. The difference stems from reduced lignin in the plant cell wall, allowing rumen microbes to break down more of the neutral detergent fiber (NDF).

Because the fiber in BMR silage was easier for cows to use, they often ate more and gained more energy from their ration.

“If you improve fiber digestibility, there is potential for cows to improve intake,” Ferraretto says. “And when intake increases, there is potential for greater milk production.”

Despite these advantages, BMR typically made up only a portion of a farm’s corn silage acres. The hybrids often yielded less than conventional corn silage and carried a greater agronomic risk. Over time, these challenges pushed some producers away from the variety.

“For whatever reason, people were not really planting BMR a lot anymore,” Ferraretto says. “But whenever companies decided that this would be phasing out of the market, everybody started asking, ‘What do I do now?’”

According to Ferraretto and Goeser, the answer is not to search for a direct replacement. Instead, the transition away from BMR may push producers to rethink how they evaluate and manage corn silage altogether.

Selecting Hybrids

As BMR corn silage phases out, producers are learning they cannot rely on a single hybrid trait to solve digestibility challenges. While BMR delivered higher fiber digestibility than conventional corn, that advantage came from a specific genetic mutation most other hybrids do not have.

“BMR corn silage sits in its own class for fiber digestibility,” Goeser says. “No current conventional hybrid matches it in the same way.”

Corn silage quality has always come from a mix of traits, not just one. Hybrid choices for digestibility, starch and overall forage quality matter, but so do agronomic traits like standability, disease resistance and yield potential.

“What drives our bottom line isn’t necessarily how much cows eat but what efficiency we get,” Goeser says. “We need to understand what our cost of production is per acre. Then we can judge our hybrid choice and our management decisions relative to the yield and energy we’re getting from that acre.”

According to Ferraretto’s colleagues at UW-Madison, choosing hybrids with strong fiber digestibility, measured as neutral detergent fiber digestibility at 30 hours (NDFD30), is an option. Most conventional corn silage hybrids have NDFD30 values between 47% and 67%, while BMR hybrids typically range from 54% to 74%. Choosing a top-performing conventional hybrid with NDFD30 around 60% to 65% can produce as much, or even more, milk per ton than an average BMR hybrid.

“There’s nothing that’s going to replace a brown midrib mutant, kernel for kernel, in terms of fiber digestibility,” Goeser says. “But there are still several management decisions producers can make to improve fiber digestibility in their silage program.”

Planting Population

How many corn plants are planted per acre can affect silage quality. Research with the Midwest Forage Association found that planting 30,000 plants per acre produced higher fiber digestibility than planting 35,000 or 40,000 plants per acre. In other words, fewer plants per acre can make forage easier for cows to digest.

“Generally speaking, with greater plant populations, say 40,000 to 45,000, we see a decrease in fiber digestibility,” Goeser says. “Yield will increase, but there’s a negative relationship between quality and yield.”

Increasing plant population can boost total dry matter yield, but only to a point. Beyond that, adding more plants may not improve yield and can reduce digestibility. Farmers also need to consider other risks, such as higher potential for insect and disease damage when plants are crowded.

Not every hybrid reacts the same way. Soil type, fertility, row spacing and weather during the growing season can all change how plant population affects silage quality. That means planting decisions should be tailored to each farm and each field rather than following a single number for all acres.

Cutting Height

Among the tools available to improve fiber digestibility, adjusting chop height is one of the simplest and most effective. Raising the cutter bar leaves the lower, most fibrous part of the plant in the field and harvests more of the digestible portion.

“I’ve been asked many times what happens if we increase our cut by 8 or 10 inches,” Goeser says. “Every 10 inches higher, we give up about a ton and a half in as-fed yield, but we gain roughly two units of starch and two units of fiber digestibility. This strategy essentially trades some total tonnage for higher-quality feed.”

Research supports this approach. Studies show that milk per ton is highest at a cutter bar height of 18 inches and lowest at 6 inches. Yield drops about 15% at the higher cut, but starch concentration increases.

However, the economics of higher cuts depend on the year. In years with big crops, it is easier to trade some yield for better feed quality. In tighter years, the focus may shift toward maximizing tonnage. The key is to make the decision intentionally, rather than treating chop height as a fixed setting. Even with the best hybrid, fertility and disease control, timing the harvest and processing the silage properly is critical to capture its full feed value.

Adjusting for the Future

As BMR becomes harder to find, the focus will shift toward a broader mix of management decisions that shape forage quality. Hybrid selection, harvest timing, chop height and emerging genetics all play a role in shaping forage quality. The challenge for producers will be determining how those pieces fit together within the economics of their operation.

Next Year’s Silage Season Starts Now

Mon, 15 Dec 2025 14:47:24 GMT

As many producers finalize their seed selections for 2026, the foundation for next year’s silage crop is being set well before planting. But how do these early decisions affect yield, quality and feed efficiency?

Hybrid selection plays a major role in forage quality, cow performance and feed costs for the next 12 months. Making seed decisions now allows farms to take advantage of early-order pricing or discounts, review data from last season and coordinate with agronomists, nutritionists or crop managers on the best plan.

Kevin Putnam, northeast dairy specialist with Pioneer, works with producers across the region to help guide hybrid selection and silage management. He offers practical advice on using harvest data and plant performance to make informed decisions for the coming season.

What Can You Learn From Last Year’s Harvest?
Looking back at last year’s harvest is one of the simplest ways to make better silage decisions for the year ahead. Yield, forage quality and what shows up in the bunk all provide clues about which hybrids fit your farm.

“I think it’s a good practice to go back through your records from harvest,” Putnam says. “Look at how the crop performed in each field, check your yields, note any disease pressure and review forage quality results. Understanding what worked and what didn’t helps guide your decisions for the next year.”

That review shouldn’t stop at the field. Putnam also encourages producers to take bunk samples and watch what’s coming through the cows. Regular forage tests help track starch levels, fiber digestibility and fermentation quality, while a quick look at the manure can reveal whether kernels are being processed adequately— or if too many are passing through whole.

“If you’re seeing a lot of intact kernels, that’s a sign to revisit your processing and cut length for next year,” he notes. “You’ve already paid to grow that grain, so you want to be sure the cows can actually use it.”

He recommends using harvest and bunk data to fine-tune seed and hybrid choices rather than making major shifts in hybrid lineups based on a single season.

“Every year is different. Some seasons crops mature faster or slower than expected, but it’s important not to make major changes based on just one year,” he adds. “I recommend reviewing your harvest data and considering your farm’s goals for yield and feed quality to make informed decisions for the next season.”

What to do next: Pull harvest and bunk data together before finalizing seed orders to avoid overreacting to one season.

Can Plant Health and Stability Help Reduce Risk?
In some regions, 2025 brought record-breaking silage yields. In others, farmers wrestled with a roller coaster of early rains followed by drought stress. That kind of year-to-year and even field-to-field variability underscores the need for hybrids that can stand up to a wide range of environments, not just shine in a “perfect” season.

For Putnam, the conversation for hybrid selection in 2026 should quickly turn to plant health and standability. Leaf diseases like tar spot, northern corn leaf blight and gray leaf spot are now common in many areas and can reduce both yield and quality if they appear too early.

“Late-season plant health is huge,” Putnam says. “We want the ear maturing and drying down while the plant stays alive and healthy. We don’t want the plant to die early and drag the silage too dry before the ear is ready.”

When plants dry prematurely, fields can look “ready” from the road, but the ear may lag behind in maturity and starch accumulation. That mismatch can leave producers with silage that’s either too wet for ideal fermentation or too dry and hard to pack. In both cases, they sacrifice quality and feed-out stability.

Instead of stopping at top-line yield numbers, Putnam encourages producers to dig into the agronomic profile of each hybrid, paying particular attention to how it performs under pressure. That means looking closely at disease ratings for the leaf diseases most common in their area, evaluating each hybrid’s drought tolerance and stress response, and understanding its late-season plant integrity.

“I’m a big fan of the ‘Steady Eddies,’” he notes. “Some hybrids may not always top the plot, but they’re consistently near the top, year after year, across a lot of different environments. Those are the ones that help you sleep at night.”

That consistency matters because most farms can’t risk a hybrid that’s spectacular one year and below average the next. By prioritizing stability and resilience, producers can better protect themselves against the kind of weather and disease swings that defined 2025.

What to do next: Note last year’s disease pressure and prioritize hybrids with strong late-season plant health ratings.

How Many Hybrids Should You Plant?
The next practical question is how many hybrids to work into the plan. Too many can complicate management; too few can leave a farm exposed.

Diversity, Putnam says, is one of the simplest tools producers have to protect against weather swings, variable field conditions and maturity challenges. Different maturities and hybrid types respond differently to stress, so spreading acres out can soften the blow if one hybrid or one field has a tough year.

“Four to five different hybrids might be a good spot to start depending on how many acres you’re actually working,” he says.

Farm size, whether silage is the primary use or part of a dual-purpose strategy and whether you work with one or multiple seed companies will all influence that number.

Just as important as how many hybrids is how they are spread out by maturity. Staggered maturities help widen both pollination timing and harvest windows, which can be critical when a hot, dry spell or prolonged wet period hits at the wrong time.

“One hybrid means one pollination window. We want to spread our risk,” Putnam notes. “By planting hybrids with slightly different maturities, you give yourself a buffer if one week of weather doesn’t cooperate.”

That mix of hybrids and maturities gives farms more flexibility — not only to manage risk, but also to line up harvest timing, packing capacity and labor with the realities of a busy fall.

What to do next: Aim for a manageable mix of maturities to spread risk without overcomplicating harvest.

Who Should Be Part of the Discussion?
Hybrid selection shouldn’t fall solely on one person. Nutritionists, agronomists and on-farm managers each bring valuable insight that connects genetics to feed value, crop health and cow performance.

“Ideally, all of the above would be there or at least at different times be part of the discussion,” Putnam says.

Nutritionists link hybrids to ration goals and bunk outcomes, while agronomists provide insight on field performance and disease resistance. On-farm managers add practical knowledge about harvest and operations.

“Get a lot of people at the table. It’d be good to have everybody there, or at least part of the conversation at some point,” he says.

Including multiple viewpoints helps farms make informed decisions that balance agronomic performance with feed quality and efficiency.

What to do next: Bring key advisers into the seed discussion early so hybrid choices align with both field performance and feed goals.

Planning for a Strong Silage Season
As producers look toward 2026, the most successful silage programs will be the ones built on good records, the right hybrids, and a strong advisory team. Using last year’s data to refine seed choices, spreading risk across maturities and agronomics and checking that what goes into the bunk matches what the ration calls for all add up to more consistent feed.

By leaning on good data, tapping the expertise of nutritionists and agronomists, and favoring steady, resilient hybrids, producers can turn an unpredictable growing season into a more predictable feed supply.

Silage Season Is No Time for Silly Safety Shortcuts

Tue, 05 Aug 2025 16:49:54 GMT

Silage harvest is one of the busiest and highest-risk times of year on the farm. With heavy equipment, multiple workers and time-sensitive tasks all in motion, it’s essential to make safety a priority. According to Trent Dado, dairy consultant with GPS Dairy Consulting, and Kevin Putnam, Northeast Dairy Specialist with Pioneer, proactive planning and clear communication can significantly reduce risk throughout the process.

Put a Plan in Place
“Silage harvest can be a whirlwind,” Dado says. “One of the things that I really encourage producers to do is to have a pre-silage harvest meeting with a lot of their stakeholders, including the custom harvesters. Not everyone knows the layout of your farm or fields, so having a short meeting to discuss safety, clarify roles and talk through any potential problems early is worthwhile.”

Putnam agrees, stressing the importance of clear communication and strong leadership during harvest.

“There are a lot of different people involved during harvest, so you want to have one person in charge.” Putnam says. “This person should know what’s happening at the bunk, can direct equipment traffic and tell people where to go. Have someone in charge of the flow and synchrony to keep things safe and efficient.”

Respect the Road
Road safety during silage harvest is just as important as safety in the field, especially when there’s a steady stream of trucks and wagons hauling feed back and forth. Both Putnam and Dado say it all starts with clear communication.

“One of the things we often forget is that a lot of the custom harvester crews, especially their truck drivers, may not have been to all your fields before,” Dado says. “They don’t always know where that narrow driveway is or which field entrance is hard to spot over the hill.”

That’s why preharvest meetings are so important — to talk through those little things before they become big problems.

Dado encourages farms to walk through traffic flow and field access ahead of time, even if it’s just a quick map or meeting.

“Should we widen a field entrance this year? Do we need a sign posted at the top of the hill that says ‘truck traffic ahead’? Those things are simple but can make a big difference in keeping people safe,” he says.

Putnam agrees, adding that planning routes in and out of each field and the bunker helps keep things running smoothly.

“Some drivers might be part-timers or new to the crew. They need to know which road to take, which lane to pull into, how to get into the bunk and where to go after that,” he says. “If people are guessing, it slows everything down and increases risk.”

Both experts also recommend giving local authorities a heads-up before harvest kicks off.

“Letting local police or EMS know when and where you’re going to be hauling silage gives them a chance to put out a PSA or just keep an eye out,” Dado says. “They’re part of the community, too, and it’s one more way to avoid issues.”

Putnam adds reaching out to neighbors doesn’t hurt either.

“A lot of farms send out a short newsletter [to their community] before manure season just a heads-up that says here’s what we’re doing, why we’re doing it and when. There’s no reason you can’t do the same before silage harvest.”

He also notes the importance of setting expectations with the harvest crew.

“Slow down, wave and be respectful to your neighbors,” Putnam adds. “Even if you’re not doing anything wrong, how we’re seen in the community matters. It helps build trust and keeps the phone from ringing with complaints.”

Bunker and Pile Safety
Big machines, tight spaces and nonstop traffic make silage bunkers and piles one of the more hazardous spots on the farm during harvest. According to Dado, bunker safety starts with traffic flow, good communication and making sure the right people are running the equipment.

“Within the feed center, understanding how traffic flows is a big deal,” Dado says. “A lot of farms set up one-way routes — trucks come in one way and leave another. That helps prevent congestion and reduces blind spots. Adding mirrors around corners also helps drivers see what’s coming.”

When it comes to the pile itself, Dado emphasizes proper slope and technique.

“Generally, piles are safe as long as you’re keeping your slopes reasonable,” he says. “For both safety and feed quality, you don’t want anything steeper than a 3:1 slope. Go beyond that, and you’re at risk for rollovers.”

Operators should avoid filling higher than bunker walls and make sure they’re packing evenly across the face. Dado warns that some of the most dangerous spots are near the bunker walls, specially if they’re not packed well early on.

“People are afraid to get too close, so they avoid those edges, which leads to soft feed,” Dado says. “Then later, when they finally do get close to the wall, their tires slip and they can get stuck. That’s a really dangerous situation.”

Both Dado and Putnam agree clear communication with everyone on the farm, including outside visitors, is one of the most important ways to stay safe during silage harvest.

“One of the biggest safety issues we see is people showing up to the bunk, like nutritionists, seed reps or consultants, and no one knows they’re there,” Putnam says. “They show up to check processing or take a sample, but they’re not visible and haven’t told anyone. That’s a huge risk.”

Whether someone is coming to the field or the feed center, Putnam recommends they always check in with the person in charge before arriving and confirm where it’s safe to park and walk.

“If I’m going to a cornfield or the bunker, I ask myself, where am I parking? Am I out of the way? Can everyone see me? Communicating that you’re there and making yourself visible is critical,” he says.

Reducing Fire Risk Through Maintenance and Preparedness
With choppers and tractors running long hours in dry, dusty conditions, fire risk is always something to take seriously. Dado says it’s one of the biggest safety concerns during silage harvest, yet it’s something farms often don’t prepare for until they’ve had a close call.

“These choppers generate a lot of heat,” he says. “All it takes is one bad bearing or a spark and suddenly you’ve got a very expensive piece of equipment in flames and people in danger.”

To help prevent fires, Dado recommends blowing off the chopper at the end of each day to clear out debris, plant matter and dust.

“It’s simple, but it makes a difference,” he says. “A clean machine is a safer machine.”

He also stresses the importance of fire extinguishers, not just having them, but making sure they’re actually usable.

“Take the time before harvest to go through your equipment and check that those extinguishers aren’t 10 years expired,” he says.

Beyond equipment, it’s also smart to have a basic fire response plan in place.

“Know where your nearest water source is and talk with your crew about what to do if something happens,” Dado says. “Even letting your local fire department know you’re starting harvest can help. If they know you’ll have trucks and equipment moving around certain roads, they can keep an extra eye out or respond faster if something goes wrong.”

Don’t Overdo it When Covering the Pile
When it comes time to covering the pile, physical fatigue and heat can quickly create dangerous conditions, especially for those who aren’t used to that amount of physical labor.

“A lot of people helping throw tires or cover silage may not be used to that kind of work,” Dado says. “It’s usually hot out, and fatigue can set in quickly. Make sure you’re watching out for signs of exhaustion or heat stress.”

The combination of heat, heavy lifting and long hours can lead to dehydration, dizziness and muscle strain. That’s why it’s important to plan for rest breaks, provide plenty of water and consider assigning lighter tasks to those who need them. Dado recommends rotating crews and building in regular breaks to keep everyone sharp.

“Harvest is tough physically and mentally, so managing your team’s energy is just as important as managing your equipment,” he adds. “Well-rested crews make fewer mistakes and work more safely.”

Finish Strong with a Safe Season
Silage harvest doesn’t have to come at the expense of safety. With a little extra planning, clear communication and a focus on keeping people visible and informed, you can protect your team and keep things moving smoothly.

“Harvest can be fast-paced and chaotic, but when everyone’s on the same page, it doesn’t have to be dangerous,” Dado says. “Take the time to prep. Those little details can prevent big problems.”

Whether you’re managing crews, covering a pile or hauling feed across town, staying safe means slowing down just enough to make good decisions. And that’s what helps you finish this silage harvest season strong.

Get Ready for Go-Time: How to Know When it's Time to Harvest Silage

Fri, 01 Aug 2025 16:00:00 GMT

Silage harvest is one of the busiest and most important times of year on the farm. It’s when all the time spent planting, fertilizing and managing crops finally comes together. And while most of the focus is usually put on the actual days spent chopping, experts say the prep work leading up to harvest can make just as big of a difference.

From checking crop maturity to planning field order and harvest timing, having a solid game plan can help avoid bottlenecks and costly mistakes. Trent Dado, dairy consultant with GPS Dairy Consulting, and Kevin Putnam, Northeast Dairy Specialist with Pioneer, share their pre-silage harvest tips to help set your operation up for a smooth, efficient and high-quality season.

Look at the Milk Line

One of the first and most important signs that it’s time to start thinking about silage harvest is what’s happening inside the corn plant, especially with the kernel. While it’s easy to focus on plant height or ear size from the road, Putnam says the real story lies in kernel development. Tracking how the milk line moves can give farmers one of the best indicators of when to chop.

“The first thing we want to do is let that milk line move down as close to black layer as possible,” Putnam explains. “Once we see some of the kernels denting (early dent) that milk line will be dropping soon, we know we’re getting closer. If we can let that ear get to about the three-quarter milk line, we’ll maximize starch and, in turn, yield.”

He adds that while waiting longer to harvest can result in harder kernels, that’s not necessarily a downside.

“The drier and harder those kernels get, the better they shatter through the processor,” he says. “If we get good kernel processing and let the silage ferment for three to four months, we consistently see improved starch digestibility.”

Dado agrees, adding that this year’s strong growing season could shift how maturity shows up in the field.

“Cobs are likely to mature faster than the rest of the plant because we’ve had such healthy stands this year,” he says. “That means we’ll probably have higher starch levels. Those ears are drying down while the plants stay green. It’s something to keep in mind, especially when it comes to feed quality. As long as kernel processing is done right, starch digestibility shouldn’t take a hit, even with wetter plants.”

Hitting the Right Dry-Matter Target
Along with starch digestibility, dry matter plays a big role in determining not only the nutritional value of silage, but also how well it packs, ferments and feeds out. Hitting the right dry-matter range is key to preserving quality and minimizing waste.

“We really want to be above that 35% dry matter,” Putnam advises. “If we can wait until past that, not only will that let the ear mature more and increase yield, but fermentation will improve. It’ll pack better (dry matter packing density), and we shouldn’t have silage effluent, so we won’t lose nutrients from runoff.”

When dry matter is too low, silage becomes more difficult to compact and can lead to seepage or spoilage. On the flip side, silage that’s too dry becomes harder to pack tightly, increasing oxygen exposure and the risk of aerobic instability. That can mean mold, heating and inconsistent feed quality in the months ahead.

Dado agrees and says don’t just rely on what the cob looks like to decide when it’s time to chop.

“Roughly half the weight of the corn plant is in the ear, and the other half is in the stalk and leaves,” he explains. “So, when you’re only looking at cob maturity, you’re not getting the full picture of the plant’s dry matter.”

The best way to get a handle on dry matter, Dado says, is to get out in the field and test it, whether you do it yourself or work with a consultant or your nutritionist.

“It doesn’t have to be fancy,” he adds. “Use a Koster tester, an air fryer or even the microwave. Just knowing where your fields stand today can help you make a much better call on when to chop.”

Fiber Digestibility and Plant Health
Beyond dry matter, both Putnam and Dado emphasize the importance of fiber digestibility and overall plant health. If you can let the plant reach the ideal dry-matter target without compromising health, you’re likely to capture more energy and yield.

“If you go from 32% to 38% dry matter, every point of dry-matter gain adds about six-tenths of a point of starch and about 1% more yield,” Putnam explains. “The really healthy plants do not lose any fiber digestibility.”

That’s why maintaining late-season plant health is key.

“If that plant’s nice and healthy, we won’t lose fiber digestibility, or we might only lose a point, getting it closer to that later maturity,” Putnam adds.

However, disease pressure can quickly change that plan.

“If we have leaf blight or tar spot, which are big topics right now, we need to watch dry matter closely,” Putnam warns. “These plants dry down quickly, and we can lose significant fiber digestibility.”

In those situations, the plant might die before the ear fully matures.

“That ear dries slower without photosynthesis, while the plant dries faster,” he says. “You need a plan because everything affected tends to be ready at the same time.”

Managing Field Variability
Many dairy farms harvest corn silage across a patchwork of fields, hybrids or maturities. That variability can make timing a challenge.

“Just because you finished chopping one field doesn’t mean you automatically go to the one across the road,” Putnam says. “We look at our list and go to the field that’s further along in kernel maturity.”

To help manage this complexity, Putnam uses Pioneer’s Silage Staging program.

“We use weather data, growing degree units and black layer info to determine when different fields and hybrids hit the three-quarter milk line; it’s very accurate,” he says. “This helps you plan ahead.”

Dado says one of the biggest challenges he sees every year is managing variability from field to field and how that plays out in the bunker.

“Managing fields at different stages means spreading wet or dry feed over as large a pile surface as possible,” he explains. “If you start with really dry feed and then layer wetter stuff on top, fermentation gets uneven and you risk spoilage or heating.”

Dado recommends starting with the driest fields, often the headlands, to save time and make use of what’s already matured. But as harvest progresses, he says he’d rather deal with feed that’s a little on the wet side.

“Toward the end, I’d rather have wetter feed than dry. It’s easier to pack,” he says. “You get better compaction and fermentation, and you avoid trapping air pockets that can lead to mold or heating.”

The key, Dado says, is managing those transitions in dry matter by distributing them across a wide surface in the pile rather than stacking all the dry feed in one section and the wet in another. This helps keep fermentation more uniform and reduces the risk of problem areas later on.

Success Starts Before the Chopper Rolls
According to Dado and Putnam, silage harvest isn’t just about getting feed in the bunker and takes more than a few good days in the field. It starts with planning ahead, keeping an eye on plant maturity and making sure everyone’s on the same page.

Paying attention to things like crop stress, milk lines and how different hybrids are drying down can help you bring in more tons, get a better pack and feed higher-quality silage all winter. Put a plan together now so when harvest hits, you’re ready to go.

The Hidden Threat in Your TMR: Identifying and Controlling Mycotoxins

Tue, 08 Jul 2025 16:58:05 GMT

Mycotoxins are a hidden threat that can quietly chip away at herd health, milk production and overall performance. Produced by molds that grow on feedstuffs, these toxic compounds are more common than many farmers realize, and managing them requires a combination of prevention, monitoring and nutrition-based strategies.

According to Duarte Diaz, professor and dairy Extension specialist at the University of Arizona, the key is not to panic, but to recognize that mycotoxins are one of many risks that need to be built into routine feed and herd management.

Why Mycotoxins Are So Complicated
“When we say mycotoxins, we’re really talking about hundreds of different compounds, produced by many types of molds,” Diaz explains. “Each one behaves differently depending on the crop, the region, the weather and how feed is handled and stored.”

For example, Aspergillus molds, which produce aflatoxin, are more common in hot, humid regions, while Fusarium molds, which produce toxins like DON (vomitoxin) and zearalenone, are more likely in cooler climates. But Diaz points out that mold problems don’t follow hard rules.

“Even in drier or colder areas, the environment inside a grain bin or silage bunker can still create conditions that support mold growth,” he says. “That’s why we find mycotoxins in just about every major crop-growing region in the world.”

Feeds Most at Risk
Corn silage often gets the most attention, but other feeds can also carry risk. Diaz encourages producers to think about two factors:

How often an ingredient is fed
How attractive it is to molds

“Corn is widely grown and makes a good substrate for mold, so it’s always a top concern,” he says. “But cottonseed, peanut byproducts and even some small grains can also be high-risk depending on where and how they’re produced.”

He also emphasizes that details matter. For example, corn ears that are partially exposed due to poor husk coverage are more likely to get infected. Insect damage, drought or high heat during the growing season can also increase the chance of mold growth and toxin production.

Understanding What Triggers a Mycotoxin Outbreak
While molds and fungal spores are present in nearly every farm environment, they do not always produce toxins. So, what turns a common fungus into a toxic threat?

“It is similar to how we set our thermostats,” says Lina Castano-Duque, a mycotoxin researcher with the USDA Agricultural Research Service. “Fungi thrive in very specific environmental conditions. When the temperature, moisture and nutrient availability are just right, they grow rapidly and can start producing toxins.”

For example, Aspergillus grows best around 86°F.

“At that temperature, it grows quickly, produces more toxins and can spread across the field or storage site,” Castano-Duque explains.

Even more challenging is the fact toxin production is not always linked to visible mold or even active fungal growth.

“Sometimes the fungus grows without producing much toxin,” she says. “It often starts producing aflatoxin when it is stressed, which could be due to competition, nutrient shifts or environmental changes. We are still working to understand what exactly triggers that switch.”

Insect pressure plays a major role as well. Caterpillar damage, for example, can create small injuries in the crop that allow fungi to access starches and lipids inside the plant.

“If you have that kind of damage followed by warm and humid weather, the environment becomes perfect for the fungus to colonize and produce high levels of aflatoxin,” Castano-Duque says.

Testing and Monitoring
Identifying a mycotoxin problem isn’t always easy. Many symptoms, such as drops in production, weak immune response or poor reproduction can be caused by other factors. Diaz says testing should be part of a broader herd health and performance evaluation.

“Mycotoxins don’t usually cause one obvious sign,” he explains. “You’re more likely to see subtle issues over time, and they can be made worse by other problems like nutrition gaps or vaccine failures.”

Routine testing of high-risk ingredients and total mixed rations (TMR) can help spot a problem before it gets worse. And while moldy feed is often a red flag, visual cues alone are not enough.

“The most common call I get is, ‘My feed looks moldy but the test came back clean,’” Diaz says. “That actually makes sense. Mycotoxins are usually produced when the mold is stressed, not when it’s growing actively. So, a feed might look bad but be safe or look fine and still contain toxins.”

Can We Predict When Risk Will Be High?
To help producers stay ahead of contamination, Castano-Duque and her colleagues are developing predictive models that use environmental and soil data to estimate the likelihood of a mycotoxin outbreak.

Working with the National Corn Growers Association and other partners, USDA researchers are applying machine learning to evaluate variables such as temperature, precipitation, soil composition and historical outbreaks.

“Our goal is to generate a risk estimate about three months before harvest,” she says. “That way, a farmer in a specific county might get a notice that their region has a high likelihood of an outbreak, and they can take proactive steps.”

Interestingly, the models have revealed the influence of unexpected variables.

“In our Texas model, calcium carbonate in the soil turned out to be a highly influential factor,” Castano-Duque says. “That is important because calcium carbonate is often applied to adjust soil pH. Farms with more acidic soils tend to see higher risk, which lines up with what producers have observed for years.”

The models are still evolving, but the ultimate goal is to give producers tools to make more informed decisions, whether that means applying antifungal agents, adjusting crop management or watching feed quality more closely in a high-risk year.

What You Can Do
If mycotoxins are confirmed or strongly suspected, there are tools available to help reduce their impact. Feed additives, often called binders or sequestering agents, can help reduce how much toxin is absorbed in the cow’s gut. Diaz says some products can significantly lower the amount of aflatoxin that ends up in milk.

“For aflatoxin, a good product can cut levels by 50% to 60%,” he says. “That’s the difference between a marketable tank and a rejected load.”

He also recommends looking at overall ration quality and adjusting key areas to support the cow’s ability to cope. Mycotoxins often affect the immune system, liver and gut lining, so additional antioxidants, fiber sources and gut health additives can be useful.

“Think about what the toxin is damaging,” Diaz says. “Can we help the immune system recover? Can we support liver function? Can we reduce irritation in the gut? All of those things add up.”

Final Thoughts
There is no silver bullet for preventing mycotoxins, but building them into your farm’s risk management approach can help you stay ahead. Understanding which ingredients are most at risk, testing periodically and working with your nutritionist to make ration adjustments are all important steps.

“Mycotoxins are a part of modern dairy production,” Diaz says. “But they don’t have to take you by surprise. If you plan for them like you plan for heat stress or forage quality, you can minimize the damage and keep your cows on track.”

How’s Your Silage Hygiene?

Thu, 26 Jun 2025 19:00:00 GMT

Hopefully, you were taught as a youngster to develop healthy habits like regularly brushing your teeth, bathing, combing your hair, and wearing deodorant.

As it turns out, your silage needs similar, positive routines. Just as those little steps added up to a healthy human, practicing good “silage hygiene” helps ensure a quality product that does not contain mold, mycotoxins, or other potentially damaging pathogens that can jeopardize silage quality, feed value, and even animal safety.

Silage hygiene begins at harvest. According to the experts at Dairyland Laboratories, Inc., harvesting silage too dry or at an improper or inconsistent chop length can be the initial violators of silage hygiene and open the door for harmful pathogens to infect the crop. So, too, can manure contamination, poor packing, improper covering, and subpar face management.

To check your silage hygiene, Dairyland Labs offers a comprehensive testing package that includes options to investigate the presences of bacteria; mold and yeast; and mycotoxins.

They noted, “If you notice a putrid smell, dark discoloration, visible mold, or heating in your silage, contamination may be present. Feeding compromised silage can lead to reduced intake and production as well as serious health concerns in livestock.”

The Dairyland advisors suggested that silage hygiene testing is especially recommended for crops damaged by flooding, hail, drought, or pests as they are more susceptible to yeast and mold growth and spoilage.

Your Next Read: Is “Soylage” in Your Dairy’s Future?

Is “Soylage” in Your Dairy’s Future?

Tue, 17 Jun 2025 17:30:00 GMT

You may have never heard of it, or you or your neighbor might already be doing it. Making silage out of soybeans is highly possible, and may be a growing trend in homegrown dairy forage production.

Michigan State University Extension researchers share in this bulletin that soybeans actually were initially used as a forage crop in the United States. And more than two decades ago, University of Wisconsin Forage Professor Emeritus Dan Undersander published advice on utilizing soybeans for hay or silage.

Both of those documents focused on soybean silage as a rescue method to salvage a damaged crop; as an emergency option to address forage shortages; or to utilize prevented planting acres that were planted to a cover crop. But other dairy producers are actively planting soybeans with the intention of harvesting them for forage.

On a recent episode of the “Soybean School” podcast, Jim MacEwen with MacEwen Agricentre, Inc., Maxville, Ontario, Canada explained how dairy producers in his region regularly grow soybean silage. He said the flat, clay soils of eastern Ontario are not conducive to growing high-quality alfalfa, and soybean silage provides a worthy alternative for high-quality, high-protein dairy silage.

“We’re growing a forage crop; we’re not growing a grain crop. That’s a mindset shift we have to make,” advised MacEwen. “That means seeding is more like alfalfa and less like conventional soybeans.”

While solid seeding would be ideal, he suggested 15-inch rows provide a good balance between plant density and the ability to get through the field for fungicide and weed control applications. That fungicide is especially important to prevent white mold, which MacEwen warned will ruin the quality and palatability of forage soybeans because it will cause the stems to die prematurely.

The seeding rate is typically higher than that of grain soybeans. MacEwen said producers in his area typically seed silage beans at 190,000-205,000 seeds per acre.

He said compared to grain soybeans, growers of forage soybeans typically select varieties with longer maturities, ranging from about 2.7 to 3.2. Those longer-day beans will typically grow taller and yield more tonnage, but he said the harvesting window can be fussy.

“One big mistake we make with growing beans for silage is the harvesting of them – we wait way too long,” MacEwen advised. “Now that we’ve learned more, we can pretty much set our calendars by it – around August 20-25 is when we are cutting our beans, as soon as the top node is done flowering.”

Harvesting soybeans for silage is a bit of a cross between making hay and making silage. It requires cutting the wet plants and laying them down to dry for a few days before merging, chopping, and blowing into a bag or bunker. The Michigan State advisors recommended a 3/8-inch cut on the chopper.

Whole-plant moisture of about 65% appears to be the sweet spot for optimum ensiling. And like making hay, the cutting and ensiling window is highly sensitive to humidity and precipitation. In terms of yield, Undersander noted soybeans are capable of producing 4 to 5 tons of forage per acre.

Among the drawbacks of producing soybean silage are the fact that the high oil content of soybeans can interfere with fermentation if the crop gets too mature. Careful attention must also be paid to the crop protection products, including any seed treatment used before it went into the ground. Some chemicals are not approved for forage feeding at all; others have prescribed intervals between application and harvest.

Soybean silage is also not especially palatable to cows. This challenge can be remedied by ensiling or feeding it concurrently with a grass forage like corn or sorghum. On its own, it can make up 15 to 20% of a dairy ration without impeding animal intake or milk production, according to the Michigan State researchers.

Changes in soybean genetics also may be encouraging broader adoption of soybean silage. Bill Mahanna, Global Nutritional Sciences Manager with Pioneer Seeds, said the advent of high oleic soybeans creates more useful soybean silage hybrid choices because their fatty acid profile is more conducive to milkfat production. The result would be a more nutritionally valuable silage that could simplify dairy rations with fewer ingredients.

Mahanna added that with these benefits, “soylage” might become a more attractive crop to grow than alfalfa haylage. The only caveat is that oil is deposited late in the maturation process of the soybean, so high oleic soylage would not contain the same oil energy found in full-fat soybeans.

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All The Details: Inside John Deere’s New F8 and F9 Forage Harvesters

Fri, 06 Jun 2025 18:20:35 GMT

John Deere is rolling out two new forage harvesters for North American dairy producers and custom harvesting operations.

The brand new F8 and F9 Series feature three factory-installed operator cab options, a technology stack that will one day enable autonomous operation, and enhanced feed quality via an integrated inoculant dosing system.

How are F8 and F9 different?
The F8 Series (425PS to 645PS) is a narrow base model that takes the place of Deere’s 8000 Series forage harvester, while the F9 Series (700PS to 1020PS) replaces the 9000 Series. Within the F9 Series is the F9 1000, which is Deere’s largest forage harvest machine to date.

(Editor’s Note: “PS” stands for Pferdestärke, which is the German term for horsepower. PS to horsepower is not an apples-to-apples equal ratio. The F9 1000, for example, features 1020PS which equates to 1,006HP, according to the manufacturer.)

The F9 is available in two engine options:

John Deere 18X (no DEF required)
Liebherr V12 24L

It has five horsepower options, while the F8 comes with the JD14X engine and can be configured across six horsepower options.

The manufacturer last rolled out completely new forage harvesters in 2019.

How much will each new model cost?

The feed rolls on John Deere’s F8 and F9 forage harvesters have integrated metal detection to keep unwanted material out of your feed.

(Matthew J. Grassi)

John Deere is not sharing its pricing just yet, but the two new models are built at its Zweibrucken, Germany, factory. John Deere dealers will begin taking orders for the aggressively styled, technology-packed harvesters this fall, with final delivery in time for the 2026 forage harvesting season.

Deere representatives declined comment on what effect, if any, the still-developing U.S.and E.U. tariff situation could have on its launch plans.

Ahead of the launch, Farm Journal went to Madison, Wisc., to kick the tires and learn all about the new machines. The F8 and F9 harvesters we viewed and climbed into were the first finished production units off the factory line. Deere says several units will be field tested with U.S. customers ahead of the full fall launch.

“We’re really excited about the new cab and the technology we’ve added to these machines like central tire inflation, ground speed automation and the new kernel processing units,” says Bergen Nelson, go-to-market manager, combines and forage harvesters.

Here’s some of what we learned about the new forage harvesters:

(Matthew J. Grassi)

Cab Comforts: The same three operator cab options offered with Deere’s X and S Series combines — Select, Premium and Ultimate — are available on the F8 and F9 Series. A smoothly swiveling captain’s chair, as well as an all-new corner post display that shows real-time machine data, are among the additions. Operators who spend long hours in the cab will also appreciate integrated entertainment like SXM Radio and an optional mini fridge.

(Matthew J. Grassi )

Foundational Deere Tech Stack: Each new forage harvester in the series includes Deere’s baseline precision tech enablement stack — which consists of its G5 display, Starfire 7500 receiver and JDLink modem.

Central Tire Inflation System: A completely new feature (top left inset photo) within the G5 display allows the operator to adjust front tire PSI up or down from the cab.

John Deere Inoculant Dosing System 2.0

(Matthew J. Grassi)

Inoculant Dosing System 2.0: New on both the F8 and F9, a high-volume 85 gallon inoculant tank and integrated pump allow the user to accurately adjust silage inoculant dosage rates from the G5 display in the cab. The system is easy to pump and prime as well with the touch of a button located at the rear of the machine.

Ground Speed Automation: This cruise control-like option reads RPMs and throttles the harvester up or down based on crop conditions. For example, harvesting corn at higher moisture levels will increase power output, so the machine will automatically slow down to ensure it doesn’t plug up or do a sub-optimal job harvesting. This feature comes standard on all base models for both series and does not require a yearly subscription unlock or per-acre fee.

Pro Touch Harvest: Another new feature within the G5 display allows the operator to shift the machine from road transport mode to harvest mode in a single click. It can also be used to quickly engage AutoTrac and ground speed automation once the operator arrives at the edge of field.

This all-new XStream 305 Kernel Processing (KP) unit is built by Scherer in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.

(Matthew J. Grassi)

New Kernal Processing (KP) Units: The new harvesters feature two completely redesigned KP units, the Ultimate 250 (also made in Germany) and the Scherer XStream 305, which is made in Sioux Falls, S.D. An integrated winch and internal rail mounting system makes switching the machine from corn forage to hay forage in the field quick and simple. The number signifies each KP unit’s roll diameter width in millimeters.

“Both KPs will go in both machines and have four different roll options depending on how aggressive the dairyman wants their end feed quality to be,” says Shane Campbell, product marketing manager, forage harvesters.

(Matthew J. Grassi)

Integrated Harvest Lab 3000: This on-demand constituent sensing module pulls over 4,000 samples per second with +/- 2% accuracy, and John Deere says it can save dairy operations time and money versus collecting and sending samples to a lab. The sensor tech (available as an add-on option) enables accurate measurement and documentation of dry matter, starch, protein, neutral detergent fiber and acid detergent fiber for both harvested forage and manure. The data can be stored, organized and shared via Deere’s Operations Center. Within Operations Center, users can take geo-referenced data and build out spatial starch content — as well as moisture and protein — maps for hybrid selection and fertility management. Because if you can’t measure it, you can’t manage it.

Active Fill Control 3.0: Using sensors and cameras on the grain spout, this tech feature automatically detects the trailer or grain cart next to the forage harvester and begins filling it with a preselected fill strategy. This reduces the number of times an operator has to adjust the spout manually and also lessens fatigue and neck strain, according to Deere.

(Matthew J. Grassi)

New Operating Modes: Several of the models within the F9 Series offer what Deere is calling its “Engine Power Plus” feature — which gives a sizeable horsepower boost when the machines senses it needs a little extra chopping power to the harvesting head. There is also an ECO mode that can be toggled on when the machines don’t need the extra torque.

Ease-Of-Access: Both models have side and rear panels that easily open to grant full access to the inner workings of the machines, making the new forage harvesters much easier to service and maintain without a lift or other heavy specialized equipment. The machine is setup so techs and mechanically-minded farmers will not have to climb underneath it to perform daily maintenance.

“At the end of the day, we know it’s all about the cow, and these machines will put out quality feed,” Nelson says. “We’ll have these out at the farm shows this summer, including Farm Progress Show, World Ag Expo, World Dairy Expo and the U.S. Custom Harvesters Convention.”

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Corteva Phases Out BMR, Introduces TonnEdge

Thu, 15 May 2025 14:00:00 GMT

Corteva Agriscience has announced that it will be phasing out its Brown midrib (BMR) corn varieties and investing more in a new line of silage-specific hybrids.

Once the darling of dairy nutrition, BMR corn hybrids have fallen partially out of favor, thanks to yield drag compared to conventional hybrids, and an early lactation-stage niche that makes silage inventories more challenging to manage for growing dairies.

Corteva noted increasing demand for high-quality, high-tonnage corn silage hybrids. The company is now focusing its research and development investment in corn silage hybrids that meet growers’ expectations for silage varieties that deliver both high tonnage and quality, branding its new silage hybrids “TonnEdge.”

TonnEdge hybrids will be selected for high biomass yield balanced with agronomic stability. This includes late-season plant health that will allow for more starch deposition to maintain fiber digestibility while offering a wider harvest window.

The decision to phase out BMR hybrids applies to all Corteva seed brands in the U.S. and Canada that currently offer BMR, including Pioneer®, Brevant® seeds, and Dairyland Seed. The BMR exit will occur over several seasons, with the final year of BMR sales to occur no later than the 2030 growing season.

In a company statement, Corteva noted they remain committed to the dairy industry. “We’re proud to support dairy farmers by continuing to invest in the dairy market, respond to market shifts, and deliver high-quality silage options to serve our customers and remain our leadership position,” they said.

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Reading Your Farm’s Crystal Ball

Wed, 14 May 2025 21:13:43 GMT

What will the dairy of the future look like?

It doesn’t have to be new, shiny, or even large. But it does have to be efficient, sustainable, and cow-centric, according to Pennsylvania dairy farmer Steve Harnish.

Harnish and his family run Central Manor Dairy, a third-generation, 200-cow operation in Pennsylvania’s Lancaster County. On a recent episode of The Dairy Podcast Show , Harnish described “The Dairy of the Future.”

“The farm of the future is one on which you are able to meet the demands of cows, meet the demands of labor, and ensure that you’ve got market access for your milk,” Harnish stated. “Those demands have changed over time in the past, and I’m absolutely certain they’re going to continue to change in the future.”

Harnish said dairy businesses are usually shaped around the constraints of their particular geography. In California, it might be water access. In New York, it’s likely labor laws. Like a limiting nutrient in a dairy ration, those constraints are what must be considered first when planning a dairy’s future.

Central Manor Dairy has made labor efficiency one of its driving principles, due in part to the fact that land values in that region are currently upward of $30,000 per acre. Because that constraint makes it challenging for the farm to add acreage or cows, they instead choose to keep labor costs low and manage the land and cows intensely.

All of their feed, including silage, is contained in upright storge, which is both a space and time saver. “When it’s time to mix feed, we push buttons, and feed comes out,” he explained.

The farm also employs rumen boluses to ensure a “no cow left behind” approach that protects the health and productivity of every animal. While Harnish said he still has not been able to completely eliminate fresh-cow diseases and metabolic disorders, the boluses serve as a valuable bellwether in signaling early disease symptoms.

“I liken it to growing a field of alfalfa,” he noted. “You don’t want to wait until the leafhoppers have eaten all the leaves off to go treat it. You want to know when they first arrive so you can take appropriate actions and preserve the profits there.”

Grant funding also can shape the way evolutionary decisions are made on dairies. Many of the dairies in southeast Pennsylvania utilize slatted-floor barns, a trend that was driven in part by funding for the Chesapeake Bay Watershed that required six months of manure storage capacity. Because those barn foundations doubled as manure storage, new facilities could be constructed with the costs partially offset by grant support.

Looking ahead, Harnish predicted that the carbon intensity of the milk produced on farms will be a driving factor in their success. He said a helpful metric is carbon intensity per pound of milk produced. While carbon-based pricing is still an immature market, Harnish predicted that “low-carbon milk” is a trend that is not going away.

“For future projects, if your management goals align with a significant carbon reduction process and you can lower that score, do it,” he advised. “I think you should strive to be in the lower half of carbon intensity to guarantee future market access.”

On-farm manufacturing, direct-to-consumer marketing, and agritourism may be successful models for future dairy farms, depending on their size, geography, and owner preferences. Harnish advised looking long and hard at what you really enjoy doing and are good at when projecting a farm’s future.

He said seriously considering whether your greatest preference is managing people, cows, crops, marketing, talking to consumers, or something else will be a primary driver in building a future dairy business that is successful, sustainable, and fulfilling.

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How Often Does the Real Ration Hit the Bunk?

Wed, 19 Mar 2025 15:00:00 GMT

That perfectly balanced ration, carefully curated by your nutritionist, looks ideal on paper -- or, more likely, in your feeding software.

But how often does the prescribed formulation actually make it to your cows? When it doesn’t, why not? And what is the fallout? A team of researchers from the University of Nebraska looked at the disparity in dairy rations between formulation and feed-out, and examined the causes of inconsistencies.

Their study, published recently in the Journal of Dairy Science , examined the feeding records of 8 commercial dairy farms over 52 weeks, from November 2019 to November 2020. They used OneTrack Dashboard, a software program that calculates deviation in chemical composition of a total mixed ration (TMR) compared with the formulated ration.

The research team, led by Addison Carroll, sought to not only identify the variation, but to assess its impact on the herd production factors of milk production and pregnancy rate.

One of their most interesting and surprising findings: overfeeding, and a lot of it. When the data was broken out in 28-day segments, they found that measurable inconsistencies happened an average of 92% of the time every 28 days. In most cases, those inconsistencies represented overfeeding, not underfeeding, of nutrients.

All of the nutrients analyzed – crude protein, fat, neutral detergent fiber (NDF), and starch – were overfed at extremely similar frequency. The herd-level implications of ration deviation included:

Overfeeding of starch resulted in reduced dry-matter intake (DMI). This did not surprise the researchers, because when starch ferments in the rumen, it supplies more available energy which leads to decreased meal size. Excess starch also my lower rumen pH and cause mild acidosis, which also suppresses DMI.
Feeding extra crude protein increased DMI, which is consistent with previous research.
Milk yield and energy-corrected milk increased when starch was overfed, but decreased when NDF was overfed.
Feed conversion ratio increased with when excess starch was fed, but decreased when fat was overfed.
Pregnancy rate increased when excess fat was fed, but decreased when crude protein was overfed.

The Nebraska researchers noted, “We recognize that the calculated nutrient deviation of an overall TMR is an oversimplification because individual feedstuffs such as corn silage have dally variation in nutrient composition.”

They also said interactions between weighing accuracy, nutrient composition, and physical form of various feedstuffs likely exist and may play a role in the ration variation they observed.

Some farms in the study were found to have miniscule variation between their prescribed and actual rations, while others showed very significant swings between the two.

To prepare and deliver TMRs more accurately, the researchers suggested the potential to utilize targeted alerts within feeding systems to improve feed management. More research pinpointing the parity and lactation stage at which cows were most sensitive to nutrient deviation also could be helpful in guiding feed management decisions.

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2024 World Forage Analysis Superbowl Winners

Thu, 05 Dec 2024 14:00:00 GMT

The 2024 World Forage Analysis Superbowl marked the 40^th anniversary of the contest rewarding the quest to produce quality forages. The annual event is held in conjunction with World Dairy Expo^® in Madison, Wis. in October.

Out of 207 entries in this year’s competition, Meadow Brook Dairy Farms of Manitowoc, Wis. was named the Grand Champion Forage Producer, capturing the top honors with their BMR Corn Silage entry. They were presented $2,500 from Legacy Seeds.

The Grand Champion First-Time Entrant award of $2,000, sponsored by New Holland, went to Mulhern Dairy of Fountain, Minn. for their Standard Corn Silage entry.

Fisher Dairy of Marshall, Ind. won the Quality Counts Corn Silage Award, sponsored by Silostop, for their BMR Corn Silage entry. Top honors in Quality Counts Hay/Haylage went to Andy Schmitt of Fort Atkinson, Iowa. His award was sponsored by Agri-King.

Division winners included:

Grand Champion Baleage – Nuttleman Farms, Bangor, Wis.
Grand Champion Commercial Hay – Hardrock Farms, Wheatland, Wyo.
Grand Champion Dairy Hay – Holst Farms, Lake City, Minn.
Grand Champion Grass Hay – Ciolkosz Dairy, Thorp, Wis.
Grand Champion Alfalfa Haylage – Andy Schmitt, Fort Atkinson, Iowa
Grand Champion Mixed/Grass Haylage – Sand Creek Dairy, Hastings, Mich.
Grand Champion Standard Corn Silage – Watrin Farms Inc., Sandstone, Minn.
Grand Champion BMR Corn Silage – Horsens Homestead, Cecil, Wis.

Sponsors of the 2024 World Forage Analysis Superbowl were led by Platinum Sponsor, Brevant seeds. Other supporters included division sponsors, Scherer Inc., Agri-King, Inc., QLF Agronomy, Ag-Bag by RCI, Lallemand Animal Nutrition, Barenbrug USA, and CROPLAN. Additional funds were provided by ByronPRO, Trinamix, La Crosse Seed and ForageMate.

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Farmers Share Weird Field Finds During Silage Harvest

Fri, 27 Sep 2024 03:26:23 GMT

Farmers have learned to live by one of life’s biggest lessons – always expect the unexpected. But sometimes even the unexpected can still cause us to pause and scratch our heads. That’s the feeling these farmers faced as they recalled the strange finds they’ve stumbled across in their fields during silage harvest.

On the Dairy Herd Management Facebook page, we asked our audience what weird things they’ve found in their fields. Here’s what they had to say:

“One spring my mom cleaned out the root cellar, threw pumpkins and squash into the manure spreader. That fall Dad found several pumpkins and squash when chopping corn.”

“Found a boat anchor once while combining corn. Went right in the tire!”

“Turns out someone decided to plant their own field within ours…they planted marijuana, not corn!”

“A few years ago, our corn got flooded and a porta potty got washed into it!”

“I found my phone that I had lost the year prior in the freestall barn. We figured it must have ended up in the lagoon then spread on the field at some point.”

“One of our lost SCR (activity monitor) collars … was out all winter and was still working!”

“Found a surgical scissors with the metal alert while chopping haylage, unfortunately, half of it ended up in the wagon. A medical helicopter had landed in the field a couple of weeks earlier.”

“We found an entire license plate in the TMR bunk, not the field. It was cut diagonally in one-inch slices. We were able to assemble the entire thing!”

“Our neighbors thought they were funny and placed a giant metal cutout of bigfoot in the field. Gave us a good scare when we were chopping late into the night!”

“We always see critters scurrying out of the fields, but I about wrecked the tractor when a bear came barreling out of the corn!”

“We found a dented-up mini fridge that must have fallen out of the back of someone’s truck and rolled into the field. Took it back to the farm, plugged it in and the thing still worked!”

For more stories on rural life, read:

Keeping Your Cool Over Hot Silage

Tue, 17 Sep 2024 20:33:36 GMT

When you see steam rolling off of silage at load-out, is it reason to panic, or just another day? According to the silage experts at Novonesis, it could be either.

They said silage heating occurs for one of two reasons – either retained heat from ensiling and fermentation, or aerobic spoilage. As packed silage ferments, microorganisms consuming residual oxygen produce heat, plus plant respiration also increases temperature. These are normal processes that could result in that steamy silage.

But poorly packed silage can lead to high porosity that allows for an ongoing supply of oxygen. This invites aerobic bacteria to consume oxygen in the “spaces” among silage particles. The result is aerobic spoilage that will degrade the crop quality and potentially deliver dangerous substances if animals consume it.

The Novonesis experts recommend the “bucket test” to determine whether heat in silage is hazardous or harmless. Steps include:

Gather a sample of 10-20 pounds of the hot silage of concern in a bucket.
Insert a thermometer into the center of the sample.
Set the bucket at room temperature indoors and out of direct sunlight, and protect it from being disturbed overnight.
Check the temperature again the next morning.

If the silage temperature is higher than room temperature the next day, the silage is aerobically unstable and spoiling.

If, however, the silage temperature matches ambient temperature, the silage is aerobically stable and safe to feed.

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Is Subpar Silage Fermentation Degrading Amino Acids?

Mon, 26 Aug 2024 16:00:12 GMT

The feed evaluation experts at Dairyland Labs, Arcadia, Wis., may be onto something.

In a recent bulletin , they noted that, since starting Near Infrared (NIR) spectroscopy evaluations just one year ago, they have observed that silage samples with high ammonia (or soluble protein) consistently contain lower amino acid levels. They noted some amino acids appear to be affected more than others.

The best guess as to why this may be happening is that amino acids are being deaminated due to poor or extended fermentation during ensiling. As protein is broken down by bacteria and fungi, deamination occurs. Deamination is defined as the process of an amino group being removed from a molecule, which converts the amino acid into ammonia.

Clostridium species are especially known for their proteolytic and deaminating qualities. Clostridia is an anaerobic microbe associated with spoilage of silage harvested at high moisture levels, and can even grow in well-packed silages if the pH is above 5.0.

It appears that – due to their chemical structure – lysine, methionine, and cysteine are more susceptible to breakdown by bacteria and fungi. Isoleucine, leucine, and valine are less prone to deamination.

The Dairyland Labs advisors noted that the alterations these changes may cause to a nutrient profile may not do much damage when they remain within “normal” ranges. But silage quality is rarely distributed evenly, and “the long tail of poorer fermentations can get ugly.”

They showed an example in which a ration’s amino acids and ammonia were moved from a one standard deviation above average to one standard deviation below average. Even this relatively minor change resulted in a change in Cornell Net Carbohydrate and Protein System (CNCPS) predictions of supplies of 44.1 grams less metabolizable protein (MP), 5.3 grams less lysine, 2.9 grams less histidine, 1.3 grams less methionine, and 2.1 pounds lower MP allowable milk.

Can Triticale Replace Corn Silage? What Dairy Farmers Need To Know

Mon, 12 Aug 2024 21:38:02 GMT

Corn silage – it’s the gold standard and steadfast staple of lactating dairy rations. But corn is also a highly resource-dependent crop, requiring fertile soil, ample rainfall, and crop-protection inputs that can be costly.

Researchers working collaboratively between Washington State University and several universities and research stations in Brazil recently explored the potential ability of triticale silage to replace corn silage in lactating cow diets.

Their results were published recently as a poster abstract at the 2024 American Dairy Science Association Annual Meeting.

Triticale is a hybrid of wheat and rye. It is more drought- and stress-tolerant than corn, and is an effective crop for preventing soil erosion and thriving in regions with limited irrigation.

The team used an artificial rumination system to simulate the rumen of a cow. They sought to determine whether triticale silage cold keep up with corn silage in diets of high-producing dairy cows with the same dietary energy (NE_L = 1.52 Mcal/kg) and starch content (27%).

Four diets were formulated with adjusted levels of triticale silage used to replace corn silage (0%, 33%, 66%, 100%). The fermenters in the artificial rumination system were stocked with rumen fluid from harvested cows. After allowing 7 days to stabilize, liquid effluent from the fermenters was collected on days 8, 9, and 10.

The effluent was evaluated for pH, volatile fatty acids (VFA), dry matter disappearance, digestibility, gas production, and methane synthesis. Results included:

No significant impact on pH; methane synthesis; or digestibility of dry matter, protein, or starch.
No effect on VFA proportions or production.
Neutral detergent fiber (NDF) digestibility trended upward linearly as triticale silage content increased.

“This trend provides additional evidence endorsing triticale silage as increased NDF digestibility encourages greater intake, consequently promoting a higher performance level,” the researchers noted.

They concluded that triticale silage could replace corn silage in lactating rations without sacrificing dietary energy and starch.

The New Dairy Chore: Plastic Disposal

Fri, 02 Aug 2024 21:25:16 GMT

From silage film to parlor chemical totes and bale wrap to crop protection jugs, plastic has become a staple of modern dairy production.

But with its convenience comes the challenge of what to do with all that waste after plastic has served its purpose. It is estimated that agriculture in the United States uses more than 800 million pounds of plastic annually.

At the dairy level, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources estimates that 15-20 pounds of plastic are used per cow every year in the state. A 300-cow dairy that uses plastic silage bags may produce as much as 6,000 pounds of waste plastic per year.

All that plastic is not only messy and unsightly, but also represents an environmental burden in an era when dairies are being increasingly charged to pursue sustainability. Three options for farm plastic recycling include:

(1) The Agriculture Container Research Council , which operates in in 46 states collecting and recycling agricultural crop protection, animal health, fertilizer, and pest control containers like jugs and drums. The plastic is converted into resin pellets that are repurposed into a wide range of products including agricultural drain pipes, pallets, landscape edging and conduit.

(2) The Recycling Association of Minnesota has organized recycling hubs throughout the state that accept silage bags, grain bags, and bunker cover. Their interactive website provides hub locations and recycling center contact information for various regions of the state.

(3) Revolution® is a manufacturer of silage and grain bags and bunker sheeting that provided free pick up and recycling of its products throughout much of the Midwest and California. Using its unique “ Push for Pick Up ” mobile app, dairy managers can request pick up of pre-loaded dumpsters, and Revolution will arrange for pick-up within 21 calendar days. The films are then recycled into new plastic products including agricultural materials, trash bags, and grocery bags.

It is helpful if one person on the dairy is charged with overseeing plastic disposal and recycling. The University of Wisconsin Cooperative Extension service has issued a bulletin providing guidance on recycling silo bags and other agricultural plastic films.

Roll Out the Lactating TMR – For the Heifers

Thu, 13 Jun 2024 16:08:40 GMT

To keep up with modern growth demands, today’s dairy heifers under 6 months of age have approximately the same nutritional needs as a cow giving 90 pounds of milk, according to Tom Tlyutki, consultant with Ag Modeling and Training Systems.

Tlyutki told the audience of the 2024 Dairy Calf and Heifer Association Annual Conference: “Feed those little girls the high-cow TMR. Do a couple-week transition from calf starter to TMR by top-dressing a fixed amount of starter.”

He added that heifer raisers without a lactating herd can do the same, simply by formulating a diet that simulates a high-group ration.

According to Tlyutki, a big Holstein cow today weighs about 1,900 pounds. As cow size increases, so, too, does the need to achieve a good share of that growth prior to lactation. He shared data that showed a 1,500-pound mature cow would need to weigh about 225 pounds at 90 days of age, and 825 pounds at breeding.

But a 1,900-pound cow would need to weigh 285 pounds at 90 days and 1,045 pounds at breeding. Along these lines, Tlyutki advised that a goal of tripling birth weight by 90 days of age is now realistic and advised.

If growth is not maximized early in life, the downside is that heifers may never reach their full potential as cows. “On any given day, a cow should be giving 12-13% of her weight in milk,” he stated. So, a 1,900-pound cow should realistically be giving 228-247 pounds per day.

“We should not ask how cows that are actually doing that are so special. We should ask why more of them aren’t doing it,” Tlyutki declared.

He also noted that the earlier growth can be achieved, the better, because it’s challenging for heifers to grow much once they become pregnant. In fact, they will barely grow at all in the last 4-6 weeks of pregnancy, so they should reach their target calving weight by 4-6 weeks prepartum.

While the prospect of such intense nutrition for heifers may sound costly, Tlyutki said feeding for high levels of correct growth early in life is actually the lowest cost per pound of gain. He’s not a fan limit/target feeding, because he believes it trains heifers to slug feed, a habit that will stay with them through life. Instead, he prefers to provide heifers with plenty of low-nutrient-dense roughage for fill.

Tlyutki also is critical of cheap calf starters, which typically contain a lot of corn, and can lead to acidosis. “If you want to make fat heifers, feed a lot of bypass starch,” he added, noting that lactic acid levels from 5-6% will make heifers fat in as little as 1 month. He advises a goal of 4% lactic acid or less, citing triticale silage as an example of terrific heifer feed that can be fed in large quantities at about 60-62% NDF and low lactic acid levels.

He added that growing heifers “right” actually can be cheaper and increase rearing capacity, because heifers move through the system faster. “The first few months of life are the period of highest growth efficiency, when calves are able to maximize frame and muscle development if fed properly,” he advised. “Take advantage of the efficiency of young animals.”

For more on nutrition, read:

Smoothing the Switch Between Silage Batches

Wed, 05 Jun 2024 21:34:26 GMT

Switching dairy animals – particularly lactating cows – from one batch of silage to the next can be disruptive to dry matter intake (DMI) , rumen function, and milk production.

Ben Jensen, Forage Treatment and Calf and Heifer Specialist for Hubbard Feeds , offers the following advice to ease cows from batch to batch:

Minimize change – Feather new-crop silage into the previous batch over the course of 7-14 days if possible. And when transitions between batches of silage are being made, avoid other significant management changes like pen moves and vaccinations.
Toss bad feed – The beginning and end of every batch of feed is the most likely place for spoilage. Discard spoiled feed to avoid introducing molds, yeasts, and mycotoxins to the ration. Even at an inclusion rate as low as 5%, damaged feed can negatively impact DMI.
Carry over old crop – If possible, manage silage inventories so the new crop has at least 3 months to ferment. Like fine wine, the new crop will improve with age in terms of starch digestibility, which will help smooth the transition when it is introduced to the ration.
Test, test, test – Test silage often for dry matter, protein, NDFD30 (30-hour fiber digestibility), starch (IVSD7 for starch digestibility, and starch as % of dry matter), and organic acids (lactic, acetic, propionic, and butyric). Comparing old- and new-crop results will help paint a picture of the degree of change when switching feeds.
Manage risk proactively – New technology and availability of information can help you anticipate variation and avoid issues. Local forage labs can provide baseline data for new-crop forages in your area. Precise mycotoxin analysis can assess the risk from over 50 different mycotoxin strains. And testing the whole TMR in an in vitrofermentation model can reveal how the ration digests within the cow, rather than evaluating each ingredient individually.
Moderate the rumen – Feeding protective yeast additives and direct-fed microbials can help stabilize the rumen, preventing subacute rumen acidosis through feed changes.

Jensen advised keeping ongoing track of silage inventories, and allocating more acreage if possible, to create more carryover inventory and longer fermentation times. “The extra feed required for carryover inventory requires more harvested acres initially,” he advised. “But subsequent years will revert to typical acres, and there will always be fully fermented feed ready.”

For more on nutrition, read:

Take a Buddy with You to the Bunker

Mon, 04 Mar 2024 14:38:04 GMT

Feed-out of new-crop corn silage has begun on most dairies, and it appears this crop may be more prone than normal to silage collapses.

Jordan Hunt, PAS, a northeast Iowa-based consultant with GPS Dairy Consulting, LLC , noted in a recent blog post that producers are reporting regular avalanches of a day’s worth or more of feed from the feed-out faces of silage bunkers and piles.

Hunt cautioned producers and their crews to be mindful of the safety hazards that silage can create. “Use a buddy system when working near the pile and managing the plastic,” he advised. “In the event something happens, one person can call for help.”

He also advised defacing silage so the top of the face is pitched back 2-3 feet from the base. “Undercutting” silage piles can lead to hanging shelves at heights as high as 30 feet, which Hunt reminded are up to 65% moisture, and thus very heavy and prone to collapsing.

Defacing a precise volume each day is also important. Hunt said if the amount for the day is short, avoid using a loader bucket on the face to grab a little more. “Either deface more, or if space allows, do a side-scrape with a wheel loader bucket,” he suggested.

If this year’s crop is showing instability, Hunt advised re-evaluating packing procedures next year, with a packing density goal of greater than 20#DM/cu. ft.

The late Keith Bolsen, silage expert and staunch advocate of silage safety from Kansas State University, promoted the rule-of-thumb to never stand closer to the silage face that three times its height. To safely collect samples, he advised staying away from the face and pulling samples instead from a loader bucket or sample pile that has been moved a safe distance away from the feed-out face.

Lallemand Animal Nutrition developed a comprehensive silage safety handbook authored by Bolsen, which addresses additional bunker and pile safety measures, along with safety education on silage harvest, equipment operation, and dangerous gases.

“I think we all understand the danger associated with this [silage collapses and avalanches],” stated Hunt. “But I do want to remind us all that it can happen in split second, and can be deadly.”

For more on silage, read:

6 On-Farm Priorities to Help Drive Success This Year

Wed, 24 Jan 2024 20:26:10 GMT

With the start of the new year comes the setting of resolutions for personal habits, behaviors and practices.

Dairies can and should do the same for their operations, according to Dr. Tom Overton, Professor of Animal Science at Cornell University, and Director of the Cornell PRO-DAIRY program. On a recent episode of the Cornell Cow Convos podcast, Overton shared his advice for on-farm priorities to drive success in the new year:

Keep a handle on IOFC – Overton said income over feed cost (IOFC) generally represents half or more of a dairy’s total profitability, so monitoring it regularly – at least monthly, or even daily – is critical. He noted the two main factors affecting IOFC are:
- Component output – how much fat and protein the dairy is shipping per cow per day; and
- Feed efficiency – pounds of energy-corrected milk divided by dry matter intake for the herd.

Overton added that many dairies also do an excellent job of tracking feed costs in terms of cost-per-pound of TMR dry matter, but that metric typically only accounts for about 10% of variation in IOFC.

Focus on forages – “Farms that focus on producing high-quality forages generally have the best income over feed cost,” stated Overton. They succeed by focusing on correct harvest maturity; harvest, packing, and sealing practices; silage management practices that minimize losses; and fiber digestibility, though the latter is often in the hands of Mother Nature. “An old rule of thumb that still holds up pretty well is that cows should be consuming 0.9-1.0% of their bodyweight as NDF from forage sources,” Overton shared.

Feeding management matters – Developing a ration is one thing, but delivering it is another. Overton said the most successful herds are those that routinely monitor dry-matter intakes; utilize feed management software programs; and follow on-farm routines that ensure consistent feed-delivery times. “And I would be remiss if I didn’t mention one of my pet priorities – make sure the straw chop length and moisture are correct in the dry-cow diet to discourage sorting,” he advised.

Stay in front of fresh-cow disorders – Overton advocates routine blood surveillance of fresh cows to detect subclinical disease and avoid fresh-cow “crashes.” Two key metrics to monitor are blood calcium and beta-hydroxybutyric acid (BHBA). “We’re not so concerned about the cows with low blood calcium on Day 1 – we find those actually turn out to be the really good-milking cows. But the cows that need attention are those that still are struggling to maintain blood calcium on Day 4,” he advised. In terms of subclinical ketosis, he recommended a goal of no more than 15-20% of fresh cows with BHBA levels above 1.2 mmol/L.

Keep current on research – New discoveries continue to be made in dairy science, and Overton said it is important to stay informed and adjust management practices accordingly. As an example, he noted recent results by Cornell researchers indicating that feeding protein levels beyond requirements to fresh cows from 14-21 days can significantly increase milk production.

Let cows be cows – Overton said he is not a fan of intense fresh-cow monitoring programs because they interfere with normal cow behavior through unnecessarily long lock-up times. “I don’t like to see cows locked up longer than 45 minutes, and less is better,” he stated. He said wearable monitoring technologies are allowing dairies to monitor cows without disrupting them, and narrow down the number of cows that need individual health attention. Remote activity monitoring also has been a game-changer in terms of reproduction, allowing for “amazing flexibility” in terms of pregnancy and lactation efficiency, herd replacement creation, and capitalizing on new opportunities like beef-on-dairy breeding.

Market indicators suggest 2024 could be another tough year for U.S. milk prices, so Overton said it will be important for dairy managers to do what they can to maintain and improve on-farm efficiency. “I hope our farms will be able to focus on these practices and stick to them,” he declared.