CowManagement US February 2013

IN THIS ISSUE

EDITION U.S. VOLUME 5 NO 1 FEBRUARY 2013

MANAGEMENT

Modern corn genetics are built for different growing conditions

REPRODUCTION

Monitoring forage content helps maintain reproductive performance

BREEDING

Rapid genetic change improving prospects for polled dairy cattle

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Welcome to fi rst issue of Cow-Management for 2013! As we look

ahead to this year, many of us wonder what the future holds. What will milk and feed prices be this year? How much rain will we get? This issue contains articles that offer insight into the effects of 2012 and how to prepare for 2013. One way to prepare is planting different varieties of crops. Today’s modern corn varieties are built to perform under various growing conditions. The round-table “Stick with corn management fun-damentals” features four agronomists discussing what was learned from the 2012 corn growing season. Incorporating grass varieties into crop-ping rotation can improve cow health and profi tability. The factors to consider when choosing grass varieties are highlighted in “Understanding grass.” Another method of preparedness is conditioning soil to maximize water infi ltration and store rainfall. On page

14, experts from several agencies and a producer share their thoughts on water’s role in nutrient management, crop yields and how to best prepare crop land to reduce variability in yields. Nutrition impacts reproductive perfor-mance and milk production. With lower quality forages, it’s important to main-tain energy balance to keep cows milking and get cattle pregnant. Mon-itoring forage quality and optimizing intake is discussed on pages 32 and 28. This issue also features articles on polled genetics and a new series “Beyond the Barn” that spotlights dairy producer hobbies. The farm report highlights Larson Acres of Evansville, Wisc., a dairy that uses aAa to assist with mating decisions and now utilizes genomic testing to assist with culling decisions. This is just the beginning of their story, which appears on page 12. We hope you enjoy this issue and here’s to a prosperous 2013!

F E A T U R E S 5 Cow talk 17 Trouw Nutrition news 23 Barenbrug news 27 Lely information 34 Vet practice: Identify risk factors 35 CRV breeding information

F A R M R E P O R T 12 Larson Acres

B R E E D I N G 20 Breeding revolution 24 Polled genes are ‘hot’

M A N A G E M E N T 14 Water and soil condition 18 Grazing with a milk robot 28 Dry matter intake 36 Dealing with team members

Sandy Larson: “It is important that the consumer knows what we do” 12

Amy Ryan Preparing for 2013

HealthReproduction

FeedingCorn varieties

PeopleBeyond the barn

326 11 Monitoring forage content promotes intake and maintains reproductive performance.

What did we learn from the drought last year about growing corn?

An ‘ice cold’ start of our new series about dairy producer hobbies.

C O N T E N T S

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The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced a final rule in late December establishing general regu-lations for improving the traceability of U.S. livestock moving interstate.

Under this rule, unless specifically exempted, livestock moved interstate have to be officially identified and accompanied by an Interstate Cer- tificate of Veterinary Inspection (ICVI) or other documentation, such as owner-shipper statements or brand certificates.

After considering public comments received, the final rule has several differences from the proposed rule issued in August 2011. These include:• Accepting the use of brands, tattoos

and brand registration as official identification when accepted by the shipping and receiving States or Tribes

• Permanently maintaining the use of backtags as an alternative to official eartags for cattle and bison moved directly to slaughter

• Accepting movement documen-

USDA issues final rule for animal traceability

What do biofuels look like on the Wisconsin landscape? Some might think of corn or switchgrass. But what about that herd of cows?

What you can’t see might fool you. Cows are walking natural biodigesters, says CALS bacteriology professor Garret Suen. Their rumens are filled with rich

Cows are walking natural biodigesters according to Garret Suen

Livestock moved interstate require official identification

Rumen bacteria could be harnessed to process biofuelbacterial communities that break down the cellulose found in feed into nutrients usable by the animal.

“The cow is arguably one of the most efficient cellulose degraders around, and the main reason why is that we’ve domesticated them to be that way through selection,” Suen explains.

Efficiently breaking down cellulose into simpler usable materials—a key challenge in biofuel production—is a feat naturally performed primarily by microbes. “A cow couldn’t exist without its bacteria, because it has no way on its own to break down the plants that it eats,” he says.

Suen, a researcher with the Wisconsin Bioenergy Initiative, is exploring the workings of the ruminant system in the hope of harnessing its power for industrial applications. He’s focusing on three strains of bacteria in the

rumen that use different strategies to degrade cellulose. Drawing upon his background in both computational biology and genomics, Suen is using next-generation sequencing to hone in on the individual genes, enzymes and other proteins used by each and how they work together.

To date, Suen’s research group has identified some sets of genes they believe are involved, including some interesting surprises that he isn’t quite ready to share. He recently received a five-year, $750,000 early career award from the U.S. Department of Energy to advance the project. Suen hopes the work could ultimately extend even beyond bioenergy.

Article reprinted with permission of UW-Madison CALS Grow magazine. Text by Jill Sakai. http://news.cals.wisc.edu/energy

tation other than an ICVI for all ages and classes of cattle when accepted by the shipping and receiving States or Tribes

• Clarifying that all livestock moved interstate to a custom slaughter facility are exempt.

• Exempting chicks moved interstate

from a hatchery from the official identification requirements.

For more specific details about the regulations, visit www.aphis.usda.gov/traceability.

Source: www.usda.gov

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C O W T a L K

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Stick with corn management fundamentalsModern corn genetics are built to perform under a variety of growing conditions

Four agronomists from major crop input companies explain

what was learned in the extreme weather conditions of 2012

and how to get the most out of your corn hybrids in 2013.

by JoDee Sattler

G iven last year’s hot and dry growing conditions, many feared

extremely low crop yields. While the crops on some parched fields were plowed under, many fields produced respectable yields and quality. Why did crops, overall, fare so well in 2012 compared to the last major drought? We asked 4 agronomists to share their comments.

List three lessons learned based on 2012’s hot and dry growing conditions.Chris Cook, Syngenta head of sales agronomy: “Every year’s weather conditions are different. At the end of the day, follow corn management fundamentals. Select well-adapted hybrids for your area and provide adequate fertility, sufficient water (if irrigated) and weed control.

“Stick with your disease management program. If your corn system includes a fungicide application, then you should apply a fungicide. In most years, there is a significant return on investment when applying a fungicide.

“New technologies are phenomenal. Growers might think traits like corn borer and corn rootworm are really neat, but in record years like 2012, you realize just how well these technologies help hybrids perform under adverse conditions. Just 10 years ago, growers would not have realized the same yields we did in 2012 with the same growing season. Today’s hybrids have better genetics and feature breakthrough trait technologies, which help create stronger root systems that absorb more

M a i n a r t i c l e

nutrients and water, and ultimately help maximize yield.”

Art Graves, Mycogen Seeds customer agronomist: “A lot can be said for the drought tolerance of today’s corn hybrid genetics. We were pleasantly surprised with corn quality and yields. Growers saw much improvement in performance compared to the last major drought. We have a pretty good shot at good corn yields – even when growing conditions are dry.

“Remember the importance of crop scouting. There were pest outbreaks – true armyworm (in grass, hay and corn) and potato leafhopper (in alfalfa) – in 2012 that we didn’t expect. It’s important to include scouting as part of your crop plan, even in fields planted to hybrids with in-plant protection. Scouting reveals the amount and type of insect pressure in a particular field and can help determine if an insecticide treatment is needed.”

Brent Wilson, DuPont Pioneer technical services manager: “In talking with growers, most were impressed with last year’s crop yields. Today’s hybrids have an amazing ability to achieve good growth under a variety of growing conditions. Last year, roots dug deep into the soil to find water. Good soils are valuable. If soils can store water, they are critical in years like 2012. Select the right products for your soil type(s).

“Timing is everything. With growing season weather conditions unknown,

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Stick with corn management fundamentalsModern corn genetics are built to perform under a variety of growing conditions

Jim Valent, Channel technical agronomist

Brent Wilson, DuPont Pioneer technical services manager

Art Graves, Mycogen Seeds customer agronomist

Chris Cook, Syngenta head of sales agronomyspread out your risk. Look at several

seasons of data and rely on that information for product selection and placement. Pollination timing is critical. If all your corn pollinates at the same time and you happen to hit some extreme weather conditions, yields will most likely suffer.”

What seed technologies help growers minimize their risks as it pertains to extreme growing conditions?Cook: “Every seed technology available helps minimize crop loss risk. If you can reduce risks, such as insects biting into the stalk and/or root, which presents an opportunity for that plant to get sick, then you increase your odds of growing a healthy crop. In dry growing conditions, Syngenta offers hybrids with Agrisure Artesian technology, scientifically selected genes that convert a higher percentage of available water into grain. These corn hybrids had an overall yield advantage of up to 15% across a variety of growing environments in Syngenta trials from 2008 to 2011. That figure bumped up to nearly 17% after more than 1,100 on-farm trials in 2012’s severe and extreme drought.

“Available in 2014, Syngenta’s new Agrisure Duracad trait is a second generation corn rootworm trait, which expresses a unique protein, eCry3.1Ab, to control corn rootworm. Its novel mode of action provides a high level of efficacy. Also, the Water+ Intelligent Irrigation Platform integrates crop inputs, agronomic expertise and technologies for water optimization in irrigated corn. These components allow growers to monitor crops and pivots from a smart phone. A 2011 pilot showed that the Water+ Intelligent Irrigation Platform at 75% irrigation out-yielded growers’ standard programs at 100% irrigation.”

Graves: “All corn hybrids have fairly good drought tolerance and growers

Today’s hybrids have better genetics and feature breakthrough

trait technologies

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m a i n a r t i c l e

can consider a hybrid’s drought tolerance rating when selecting corn seed. However, don’t just focus on drought tolerance. Pick corn hybrids based on soil, management strategies, climate and ultimate use. For example, if the corn will become silage, plant very digestible corn, such as brown midrib (BMR) corn.

“Seed treatment is also very important to help the crop get off to a very strong and fast start. The treatment controls soil-borne insects and fungi. Without these stressors, plants can develop a strong root base. With the help of proper fertilizer, corn can resist a lot of biological and environmental threats. I recommend including genetically modified traits to help control insects and allow for herbicide tolerance. Weeds compete for water and nutrients. If the field is free of weeds, the crop has access to more water and nutrients. These technologies help reduce stress and the crop better handles environmental challenges. Lastly, dairy producers should plant hybrids with high quality fiber digestibility. If you don’t get an ear with kernels, you want valuable (highly digestible) stalks. BMR hybrids provide more energy and good digestible fiber, compared to non-BMR corn.”

Wilson: “Pioneer’s Optimum AQUAmax products, developed through native traits, are designed for drought stress but also offer top-end yield potential in optimal growing conditions. “In 2012 on-farm comparisons, under water-limited growing environments, Optimum AQUAmax hybrids yielded 9% more than competitive products. Under normal growing conditions, they yielded 2% more. Using this technology protects the downside.”

List three corn planting best management practices to help the crop get off to a great start.Cook: “Pick the right hybrids for your field conditions. Consider the true maturity and technologies you need.Protect the crop early. Use a seed treatment. Nine out of 10 years it’s worth the cost. Follow recommended agronomic practices during the growing season. Walk your fields. Use a pre-

If the field is free of weeds, more water and nutrients are available for the crop

emergent herbicide, monitor your crops for weed, disease and insect pressure, and be prepared to act on them as needed.”

Graves: “Consider the 3 Ds – depth, date and distance. Plant corn at the ideal depth for your conditions – about 2 inches into the soil. Relatively deep-planted corn seed produces a better root system, larger stalk diameter and gets plants off to a better overall start.

“In general, planting earlier (with acceptable conditions) generates higher yields. At planting, soil temperature should be at least 50° F, with a warming trend in the forecast. Some states follow calendar recommendations.

“Determine the ideal planting population for fields. Plant spacing varies by row spacing and hybrid. Evenly spaced plants produce uniform plants and better yields.”

Jim Valent, Channel technical agronomist: “Have base fertility in balance (pH, N, P and K) and include sulfur. The past few years I’ve seen several nutrient deficiencies, partially due to high potash prices and growers not changing their fertility programs to match nutrient removal rates.

“Place seed properly in the soil (such as spacing depth). Regardless of conditions, the best results come from fields with the most consistent stands.

“Work with your seed dealer to find hybrids that best fit your environment (such as emergence, disease tolerance and drought tolerance), as well as your goals for that crop.”

Wilson: “Protect your crop from insect pressure, particularly corn borer and corn rootworm. Also, scout for Japanese beetle, which can be devastating if plants are weak. When water is so critical, you don’t want any holes (insects damaging the root system or plant) in the plant’s plumbing system. Soil insects may be more prevalent in 2013 and may escalate if dry, warm conditions continue.

“Soil temperature still drives seed germination. A soil temperature of 40° F is too cold; soil temperature should be at least 50° F and rising. Corn seed needs

8 C O W M A N A G E M E N T f e b r u a r y 2 0 1 3


at least a 24-hour warm period after it’s in the ground to properly start the germination process. Avoid planting corn immediately ahead of a cold snap.

“Prepare the seedbed so the furrow can be formed without causing sidewall compaction. Get the seed closed, but don’t pack it in. I recommend a seeding depth of 2 inches; this provides a stable environment for the seed. Planting corn seed at a shallow depth in cold weather doesn’t buy you protection.”

What should growers be monitoring in their corn crop during the growing season? Cook: “First, check plant stands – right after plants spike through the ground. Often times, it’s midseason before growers realize they don’t have a good stand. Second, at the V4 to V8 stage, look for disease and weed pressure, and consider applying a preventative or curative fungicide. Third, at the R1 stage, check for disease pressure again and consider a second fungicide application. While checking the field, make sure you are looking at other crop conditions that will help you begin to determine your harvest order as the season progresses.”

Graves: “There are five key times to monitor the crop. “Check for emergence to determine if you need to replant. If the crop hasn’t germinated, dig to see what’s going on. Take a shovel to the field to see if the seed is okay or if it has turned brown, mushy and/or slimy. If seeds are clean and healthy, they will be okay; they’re just slow in getting started.

“After the crop is up, check for fertilizer deficiencies and scout for weeds. Pre-emerge herbicides are the best. Corn likes to start in a clean field and stay in a clean field.

“Check for in-season insects and treat accordingly.

“At flowering, look at plant health. Is the silk moist so pollen can move to the ovaries and then develop kernels? Also, scout for leaf diseases to see if a fungicide is needed.

“At harvest, determine whole plant moisture, which should be 32% to 35% dry matter if it’s going in a bunker silo. Harvest three or four stalks, chop it,

weigh it and use a Koster moisture tester or microwave oven to dry it down, and then calculate dry matter.”

Valent: “Two to four weeks after planting, check plant stands – looking at planting depth, spacing consistency and emergence uniformity. These all contribute to maximizing light interception, moisture retention, weed control, nutrient availability and yield.

“The most common available fertility evaluation is to analyze plant tissue for symptoms of nitrogen loss/shortage later in the season. Unfortunately, most growers miss a perfect opportunity early in the season to evaluate a broad cross section of fertility. From emergence through V4, the plant is good at showing phosphorus, potassium, manganese and magnesium deficiencies. Monitoring the crop at this stage will help set early expectations of performance, as well as areas where further long-term management may be needed.

“Check plant health, primarily in August and September, to determine if you are selecting the best hybrids to handle disease pressure. If aerial application is available, could you use a fungicide, such as Headline, to manage diseases if the hybrid’s characteristics and traits are the best fit for your operation? Evaluate insect pressure – from emergence through harvest. Growers need to understand what pests and thresholds they are dealing with before they can effectively manage pests through trait selection or other management practices, such as use of insecticides, crop rotation or tillage.”

Wilson: “Keep an eye out for disease pressure. Goss’s wilt used to be found in the West; now it’s showing up in the Midwest. It tends to move around. There are three critical times to walk your corn fields – after emergence (look at stand establishment and weed control), just before/at tasseling (look at root development, plant health and stand uniformity), and at maturity (look at grain development and plant integrity). Evaluating stalk strength will help you determine the field harvest order (harvest fields with poorer stalk strength first).” l



Name: Evert van BenthemLocation: Spruce View, Alberta, CanadaHerd size: 150 cows, 60 heifers, 60 calvesHobby: Speed skating

L ike most children in the Netherlands, Evert van Benthem began ice skating at a young age. Little did he know that

someday he would be a world reknowned speed skater that would win two Elfstedentocht (124 miles) marathon races.“In Holland, there is an excitement around skating and everyone starts young,” says Van Benthem. “When I was 16, I knew that I wanted to skate because I was good at it and my work on the farm helped prepare me for competition.”In fact, Van Benthem says that many dairy farmers in the Netherlands are involved in speed skating as they like being outside, love nature, are tough and are in good shape.Van Benthem started skating marathons at 22 and during the winter of 1985, he won his first Elfstedentocht, a historical Dutch race. This 200 kilometer race is skated on natural ice and can only be held when ice is 6 inches thick. It has only been held 15 times in the last 100 years.Skating at an average of 18 miles per hour in this race, Van Benthem finished in six hours and 47 minutes. The following year, he won several other races and another Elfstedentocht on with a time 6 hours, 55 minutes and 17 seconds. Athough he became very well known, dairy farming is most important to him. He credits his wife, Jannette, for taking care of the farm while he was training or competing.“All of a sudden we were in the spotlight and everybody knows you. We’ve been to many places and have met a lot of people, but we still milked our cows every morning at 5 o’clock. We are most happy with our family and farm as we enjoy the simple things in life!”In 2000, the Van Benthem family moved from Holland to Canada as it offered more opportunities for their family farm to grow. Their eldest son, Rolf, is married and has a son. Their next son, Merein, is married and they just started their own 60-cow farm. Their youngest son, Jos, is a student in Calgary.The three Van Benthem boys skated competitively in Holland. Van Benthem says he would someday like to skate again with his sons.“My dream is to skate the Elfstedentocht one more time together with my sons. Not in competition but just the tour,” he concludes. “But to skate a 200 kilometer tour you have to be in shape! The Elfstedentocht will always come unexpected – so we better be prepared! We’re in training right now.”

Evert van Benthem: ‘All of a sudden we were in the spotlight’

Always trainingby Amy Ryan

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B E y O N D T H E B A r N

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Maximum control of the farming systemA feed shortage stemming from the 2012 drought has caused

an increase in breakeven price to 19.25 dollars per 100 lbs milk

at Larson Acres. Fortunately, a new cross ventilation system

helped support milk production during the hot summer.

by Jaap van der Knaap

Larson Acres combines the aAa system with a standard genome test

The cross ventilation barn arrived in 2010Sandy Larson

Larson Acres A new cross ventilation barn helped support milk production during the hot summer at Larson Acres.

Number of cows: 2900Amount of land: 5000 acresNumber of employees: 60Breakeven price: 19.25/100 lbs

Evansville

H E R D R E P O R T

A farm website geared to consumers and a telephone answering message

with a friendly lady’s voice ends with ‘Drinking milk is also good for the environment.’ You don’t immediately

consumer knows what we do. We put a lot of energy into the acceptance by the public of modern dairy farming. Half of my time, I take tours with school classes or interested people around our dairy,” says Sandy Larson from the Larson Acres farm at Evansville, Wisconsin.

Larson Acres is most certainly a modern dairy farm. The new cross ventilation barn brings the dairy completely up-to-date. In the barn, measuring 1,185 by 237 feet, 1,850 dairy cows including some of the older young stock are currently housed. The climate is mechanically controlled via 185 large ventilators in the side wall. The climate can be cooled by 15-20 degrees and that has turned out to be very useful in a hot summer.

“Last summer the outside temperature was 90 degrees for a whole month. This barn cost us $5,000 per cubicle, but we hardly had a dip in milk production or worse fertility results owing to the heat. We can control the whole system now,” says Sandy.

Genomic selection and aAa Sandy Larson (40) is the fi rst point

of contact for the family farm. “I am the fi fth generation to farm on this land,’ she explains. Her father, uncles,

expect this from a dairy where every day 2,900 cows are milked three times a day and where 60 staff look after a total of 5,500 animals.

“We believe it is important that the

Larson Acres houses 5,500 animals

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from the same family as the sire Lars-Acres Trigger, an early Shottle son with a high genomic index which made him popular worldwide.

Genomic selection is used for the top of the herd and for the selection of young stock. “For 30 years we have been users of the aAa (genetic mating) system. It improved our animals so that they last longer. Also, the use of sexed semen caused too many young stock. The sale of young two year old heifers is not really profi table because of the feed costs. Therefore with all calves we use the genomic test, costing 44 dollars per calf, and use it for an earlier selection.”

Break even price of 19.25 dollarSandy is open about the cost price

margin. “We now need a milk price of $19.25 to break even,” she says. “That is considerable, but we bought this year

2,000 acres of corn because of the drought. We have been lucky, the corn harvest halved here compared to other years although the quality was not entirely disappointing.”

Larson Acres itself has 5,000 acres on which alfalfa and corn is cultivated and to dispose of manure. Via a 3-mile pipeline, the thin fraction is pumped and distributed. “We have a thin and a thick fraction of the manure and we recycle 96 percent of the sand used in bedding stalls,” says Sandy with pride. Sandy is responsible for the nutrient management plan. There are two large manure lagoons: one of 12 million gallons for thicker manure and one of 6 million gallons for the more liquid manure. “With two kinds of manure and with different values in phosphate and nitrogen, we can manage manure more accurately,” she says.

Promote the dairy businessThe tour ends at one of the two, 44

rapid-exit milking centers where the staff milk 1,100 cows in seven-hour shifts. “Many visitors have never seen cows before, let alone a milking parlor. They often leave our farm fully understanding what we do. We keep cows in as animal-friendly a way as possible and make high-quality dairy products. We want to promote the dairy business and it gives us support in living here,” she says. l

The climate can be cooled by 15-20 degrees

brother, and sister-in-law are part of the team that works on the dairy. Over the last fi fteen years things have changed quickly. In 1998, it was decided to change from the old tie-stall barn with 150 cows to a freestall with 600 cows. Two years later, the freestall was doubled and in 2010, the new cross ventilation barn arrived. That same year, four new calf sheds were brought in, each taking 60 calves that are given pasteurised milk three times a day. Strict protocols ensure that after six weeks the calves are weaned and at eight weeks old move to a group with 8 animals.

Sandy mentions a number of calves in particular. “They are descendants of Markwell Durham Felice and Lars-Acres Shottle Trufffl e, cows that we intensively fl ush and in which there is a lot of AI interest.” Felice is from the family of Markwell Blackstar Raven. Truffl e is

In the barn 1,850 dairy cows including some of the older young stock are currently housed


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Water… tap a valuable nutrient

Jerry Hatfield, Director of the USDA-ARS National Laboratory for

Agriculture and the Environment specializes in researching climate change and variability of soils as part of an effort to help dairymen improve the efficiency of water use in crop management. He stresses the importance of water management to both the environment and crop yields.

“With the growing importance of nutrient management and environ-mental impacts of agriculture, we as an industry need to optimize production systems to in turn maximize nutrient uptake, while minimizing nutrient loss and the industry’s environmental

footprint,” Hatfield says. “With ever changing climatic and rainfall patterns, preserving soil moisture is crucial to crop yields.”

The environmental issueWater affects the industry’s

environmental footprint on various levels. Dennis Frame, Co-Director of the UW Discovery Farms Program has been working closely with dairy producers in Wisconsin for the last twelve years to closely assess that effect.

“Nutrient management is very important in agriculture and our goal is to help dairy producers fine-tune their management systems to optimize

production and reduce runoff,” Frame says. “Our research has primarily focused on phosphorus loss and namely, pounds of phosphorus lost per acre into streams. We use this information to make recommendations to producers to reduce runoff. Soil moisture has a large impact on reducing nutrient loss.”

UW Discovery Farms research has found that nutrient loss, more specifically phosphorus loss to streams and waterways is driven by two factors. First the amount of phosphorus on the land and where it came from. Secondly, the ability to transfer from the field into water. Frame says phosphorus loss also varies depending on soil type, soil moisture, cropping systems used and region.

“Knowing phosphorus levels in the soil and understanding factors that influence their loss is the first step in cutting runoff from the field and reducing risk of contamination,” he says. “Once this information is known, producers can fine-tune application, tillage or other management strategies

Controlling weather is impossible, but there are ways to

prepare for it. More specifically preparing soil to maximize

infiltration and store the most water possible is a key to

preparing for variable weather and rainfall patterns.

by Amy Ryan

With the drought of 2012 still fresh in many minds, water and its impact on crop yields has become a popular topic

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“I have always been very interested in conservation and back in 2001 when new proposals were being considered for the industry, it became clear that we needed to know more about how our farms impact the environment,” says Bragger. “The proposals would have been very restricting for us due to our natural landscape, so we felt understanding how our farm interacted with the environment, namely its impact on water quality, was crucial.”

Rolling with the changesHatfield has studied climatic patterns

and rainfall trends for years and says one thing is certain; changes will continue and they will impact crop yields. This impact can be managed through soil water content.

“While weather patterns and rainfall occurrence obviously varies around the U.S., we have found that overall there is a trend towards more rainfall in the spring and less during summer months,” he says. “Water is the primary factor affecting crop yields and with crop water use increasing toward the

end of maturation, the trend toward more spring rainfall makes it important to recharge the soil profile in the spring to prepare for potential water shortages in the later growing season.”

Citing water as the primary factor affecting crop yields, Hatfield utilizes water use efficiency (WUE) to help producers evaluate their water needs. WUE measures the amount of water that is taken by crop roots and transpires into the atmosphere relative to crop use.

“Building organic material in the soil has a huge impact on soil water holding capacity. Proper manure management and delivery is one key to optimizing nutrient uptake,” Hatfield says. “With more rainfall coming in the spring at higher intensity rates than the summer, preventing soil erosion and potential runoff to maximize water infiltration rates is also critical.”

Frame agrees “Soil erosion is more common when water holding capacity is low. Improving infiltration to protect from water loss, prevent loss of organic matter and promote soil health has a large impact on crop yields.”

as needed to capture and store the optimum amount of nutrients and water in their soil.”

Frame continues to say that when ground is not frozen, runoff is affected by the intensity of rain and how many pores in the soil are filled with water. Furthermore, based on data collected on Discovery Farms in Wisconsin, he says that when soil moisture reaches 35 percent the risk of runoff increases substantially.

One of the first dairy farms in the UW Discovery Farms Program is Bragger Family Dairy a 300-cow dairy and large poultry operation in Independence, Wisc. Bragger’s also have a fish pond that raises 4,400 brown trout per year in cooperation with the DNR and a local sportsmens club.

Joe Bragger has been a part of the program since the beginning. He strives to maintain optimum soil moisture to minimize runoff and maximize yield potential. This goal is a lofty challenge because the farm has steep slopes with clay soil on its ridges and it has two miles of stream running through it.

Water is the primary factor affecting crop yields and crop water use increases towards the end of maturation



The Braggers have reaped the benefits of learning their soil dynamics and understand the importance of changing with the conditions. “With the hard clay on our ridges and the slope of our farmland, we need to do a tremendous job of harvesting water,” Bragger says. “Prior to our work with Discovery Farms, we were harvesting crop residues in the form of bedding. We now realize the role that leaving those residues on the land plays in maintaining soil moisture and the importance of cover crops.”

Their water management plan has helped them retain an amazing 97.5 percent of the precipitation that hits the farm which is critical to controlling runoff, water availability for crops and recharging ground water levels.

Customized strategies What are the best methods to

maintain water and maximize in-filtration rates? Frame says this varies. In steeper regions, producers need to heavily consider runoff and building organic matter, so minimum or no-till should be used to help infiltration. On the other hand, in flatter regions, with heavier soils, no-till and minimum till are still an option, but vertical tillage

may work better. Other alternatives include tiles and cover crops.

“Each year, dairy producers really need to sit down with their crop consultants to evaluate their current farming system to see what is working for them and working best in their area,” Frame says. “They need to use methods that will increase the amount of remaining nutrients while capturing the maximum amount of water in the soil. The two really go hand in hand.”

Bragger and his family have utilized several strategies along with no-tilling and cover crops to maintain soil quality. “We have gone to larger fields, intensely managing manure application with different types of manure being applied to certain fields at specific times and put in grass waterways in areas of concentrated flow along the streams.”

With extreme variability in climate patterns and rainfall trends continuing into the future, Hatfield says good soil and specifically water management in the soil is very valuable.

“Dairymen must look at their fields by examining different soils from across the field and understand why nutrient and water content variation is occurring,” says Hatfield. “Along with protecting from potential runoff issues,

knowing soil information will help maximize infiltration rates, which will in turn optimize growing conditions and crop yields.

Know your landFrame concludes that knowing their

land, its water content and trying new strategies to maximize its potential is a win-win situation on multiple levels. “When evaluating your farming systems each year, make sure water needs are covered and preserve water quality. Any strategies that improve water infiltration, ensure water is where it needs to be and reduce runoff by maintaining proper soil moisture will not only improve crop productivity, but make you a better part of your community.”

Bragger Family Dairy is a great example of this philosophy at work. “The slopes of our land present many challenges, but farming here can be done and it can be done well,” Bragger says. “Discovery Farms, our local resources and other farmers have been our greatest resources in optimizing water quality and improving soil conditions. My most important advice to others is don’t be afraid to tap these resources and try new strategies to make it happen.” l

Intensely managing manure application can help maintain soil nutrients and increase water holding capacity

m a n a g e m e n t



Trouw Nutrition has recently become a corporate member of the Professional Dairy Producers of Wisconsin (PDPW) and Indiana Dairy Producers (IDP).

The PDPW is an organization formed in 1992. The PDPW has now grown into a network of 1,600 members from 18

Trouw Nutrition continues to support the U.S. dairy industry

Calving is an incredibly stressful event in a cow’s life. The stress is caused by metabolic changes and a reduction in feed consumption. These changes can result in a loss of essential nutrients when the cow needs them the most. This could be in the form of energy, calcium, electrolytes, vitamins and/or minerals. Trouw Nutrition has the drinkable drench to help bridge that metabolic gap. After the cow freshens, she needs a highly available energy source to recover. CowDrink™ ensures the cow will receive what she needs through drinkability.

To learn more about CowDrink, visit: www.trouwnutritionusa.com

states across the country that represents every type and size of dairy operation. Thousands of dairy producers rely on PDPW for continuing education and news that affects them. Trouw Nutrition is proud to be a member of this organization.

Minimize stress after calving

By 2016 our employees will be actively committed to Nutreco’s contribution to Feeding the Future challenge of feeding nine billion people in 2050 in a sustainable way.

Are you interested in making a difference? In order to remain a leader in our animal nutrition market, we require a variety of skillsets and abilities in many different functions. We are always looking for candidates who are committed to making a difference to help us meet the great challenge that is in our future!

Discover why joining Trouw Nutrition USA would be the right fi t for you.

For more information, please email: [email protected]

Interested in a career in animal agriculture?

The Indiana Dairy Producers (IDP) organization was formed in 1998. The organization was created to help dairy professionals network with each other

About the Indiana Dairy Producers

The PDPW connects with dairy producers by:• Sharing information, accomplishments and concerns with other dairy producers • Meeting with industry leaders and experts• Sharing knowledge from world-class scientists and researchers

For more information about this organization and/or how to become a member visit: www.pdpw.org

around the state. The idea was to encourage open exchange of ideas, and learning new approaches to the most challenging dairy management decisions.

For more information about this organization and/or how to become a member visit: indianadairy.org


For more information on products and services of Trouw Nutrition International: Tel. 800.328.8942. www.trouwnutritionusa.com

T R O U W N U T R I T I O N N E W S

CMUS01_TrouwNews.indd 17 29-01-13 15:23

Grazing and automatic milking go hand in hand

When Ron and Ester VanLangen moved from the Netherlands

to Marathon County, Wisconsin, in July 2008, the idea of a robot handling the job of milking was nothing new. “Automatic milking was already very popular in the Netherlands,” says Ron. “A former neighbor of ours had recently installed the technology and it was very successful for them.” Although robotics was common in their native country, Ron and Ester’s previous 40-cow, pasture-based operation was equipped with freestalls and parlor. Thanks to the popularity and success of robots witnessed back home all of that changed within a year of relocating to the U.S., when the couple opted to install two Lely Astronaut robotic milkers.

Ron and Ester were able to design the new 125-stall barn alongside their local Lely Center and builder. “Robotic milking just made sense for us,” says Ron. “We

started milking in the new barn Sept. 15, 2009 with 48-cows and grew to 125-cows in four months.”

Handle grazing effi cientlyWith the addition of robots came

many changes to VanLangen Dairy. These changes included improved pastures for grazing, a new free-cow-traffi c dairy facility and an automatic feed pusher to ensure fresh feed is available to their herd around the clock. To stimulate cows to go outside, the VanLangens also installed the Lely

Grazeway separation gate as a tool to handle grazing effi ciently. “The Grazeway gives us the opportunity to combine automatic milking with optimal grazing,” says Ron. “Before the cow leaves for the pasture, she is recognized at the Grazeway to determine if she still needs to be milked or is allowed out to graze.” To encourage cows to return to the barn for milking, the VanLangens keep no water in their pastures. In general Lely advises to have suffi cient drinking water in the pasture, but to attract cows back to the robot by

Grazing and automatic milking go well together. When combining automatic

milking with grazing it’s important to ensure the robot remains attractive to cows.

Smaller patches combined with separation gates helps to achieve routines.

by Ben Smink

Optimal grazing with milking robots by using separation gates

Figure 1: Selection of different paddocks e.g., the A-B grazing system

M A N A G E M E N T

18 C O W M A N A G E M E N T F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 3

CMUS01_LelyFeature.indd 18 01-02-13 09:32

rotational grazing a success. “We divide the paddocks with a portable wire so there is just enough to graze for 12 hours,” says Ron. “We do the A-B grazing system and still get on average over two and a half milkings per day.”

“Freedom” for cows and farmerHoward and Mary Jo Straub, of Saint

Johns, Michigan, too, combined automatic milking and pasture grazing with the help of the Grazeway.

The Straubs began milking in 1972 with 26-cows. “We originally used pasture grazing but went to confi nement until 1993,” says Howard. “Since 1993, we have pasture grazed the herd.” In 2010, the Straubs opted for robotic milking after their daughter and her husband started dairying on their own in 2002. “Our herdsman was gone for a year and we had a hard time fi nding help,” says Howard. “We started robotic milking the same month he came back.”

Today, the Straubs milk 120-cows with two Lely Astronaut robotic milkers,

“Freedom” and “Liberty,” named after the freedom and liberty they allow the herd and Straubs.

Similar to the VanLangens, to help keep the robotic milkers attractive to cows, the Straubs provide water only in the barn rather than in the pasture. In January 2012, they purchased the Grazeway to ensure when a cow enters the barn to get a drink, if she needs to be milked, she is not allowed back to the pasture until she goes to the robot. If not enough time has passed since her last milking, she can return to pasture right away. “The cows fi gure it out fast,” says Howard. “If the Grazeway doesn’t let them out, they go right to the robot.”

For seasonal producers who are considering a robotic milking system, they suggest transitioning to year-round. “You’ll want to keep the robot busy all year,” Howard says. “Plus, what’s the biggest reason for going seasonal? You don’t have to milk cows for a couple of months. Well, I haven’t milked cows for three years.” l

Why grazing? The milking robot has to collect a

signifi cant amount of milk to keep the automation costs per pound of milk at an acceptable level. Good milking ability, healthy claws and assertive behavior of the cows contribute to achieving this.

Figure 2: Grazing box viewed from above: 1. The cow has not been milked and is guided back into the barn. 2. The cow has been milked and is allowed outside

In an overcrowded barn, cows often compete with each other for lying and eating places, which has a negative effect on their health. To make optimal use of the robot’s capacity, it is advisable to avoid overcrowding in the barn (see Figure 2).

allowing the cows to go to fresh pasture after the next milking.

The separation gate is installed at the exit of the barn, where the cows go to pasture. While entering the gate, cows are recognized by their responder. Selection criteria are set through the T4C (Time for Cows) management program.

Selection boxes, such as the Grazeway, can be used for the so-called A-B grazing system, where it selects different portions of pasture, or paddocks, on a time related schedule. Cows are automatically sent to the next paddock after a set time period. In this system, cows must fi rst be milked in the milking robot prior to being allowed to go from plot A to plot B. Plot B – a new plot with fresh grass – forms the motivation for the cows to visit the robot. When 100 percent grazing is employed, a third plot – plot C – can be used during the night. The VanLangen’s barn is built in the middle of their 100 acre fi eld. With 16 paddocks around the barn, the farthest is 1100 feet away which helps make


CMUS01_LelyFeature.indd 19 01-02-13 09:32

The revolution of dairy breeding

traitherita-

bilitycorrelation to

calving interv.1

hoof health .10 +.20locomotion .17 +.13body condition score .35 +.40udder health .03 +.26daughter pregnancy rate .04 N/A

Table 1: Traits and correlation to the calving interval

Table 2: Affect of inbreeding on future production

The drive to breed a better or maybe even the “perfect” cow is a passion

shared across the dairy industry. One farmer’s dream cow is one that gives more than 100 pounds a day, while a neighbor may dream of a cow that thrives on a pasture system. Recently, the “perfect” cow has changed from the bigger the better, to a cow that has functional type, above average production, and more importantly, lasts longer in your herd. To meet the desire for longer lasting cows, farmers now use tools such as genomics and other technologies to help advance their herd.

Feed costs on the rise With recent changes in the industry

and emphasis being given to fat and protein production bulls are increasingly selected on component production and

longevity. With feed costs on the rise, the ability to produce high numbers over extended lactations has become the answer to the steep feed and management costs of replacement heifers.

Because of this, CRV has collected data from cows all across the globe to provide breeding values for traits to improve the health and life of the cow. Traits such as udder health, hoof health, locomotion, and others now have manageable breeding values for customers to use when making breeding decisions. Obviously, the health of the cow is not all genetic and proper facilities are needed, but like production traits, health traits are heritable and can have a profound affect on fertility by reducing the calving interval and increasing overall production. Selecting cows with outstanding health in your breeding

Crossbreeding allows producers to combine the best of both worlds

programs and using bulls with positive health numbers can help create long lasting, profitable cows for your modern herd.

Best of both worldsAnother tool for developing long

lasting cows that is starting to gain popularity is crossbreeding. Crossbreeding allows producers to take advantage of important traits from many breeds while decreasing inbreeding and producing long lasting cows. For example, a producer can The “perfect” cow has changed from the bigger the better, to

a cow that has functional type, above average production, and

more importantly, lasts longer in your herd. Farmers now use

tools as genomics to help advance their herd.

by Matthew Costello

High numbers over extended lactations has become the answer to the steep costs

traitinbreeding depression

per 1% increase

lifetime net income ($) –24days of productive life –13lifetime milk prod. (lbs) –390lifetime fat prod. (lbs) –13lifetime protein prod. (lbs) –12

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20 C O W M A N A G E M E N T F E B R u a R y 2 0 1 3

CMUS01_Longevity.indd 20 29-01-13 16:16

breed his Holstein cows to all Jersey bulls to increase the component production and increase the efficiency of the offspring. Not only do producers cross dairy breeds, but crossing with dual purpose or beef breeds is also gaining popularity. These crosses provide healthy, functional cattle that can thrive in any system.

With the ever growing selection of bulls available and the use of son’s from some of the world’s most popular bulls, the risk of inbreeding in dairy cattle has increased. Inbreeding can have

drastic negative effects on production and health as seen in the table. Because of the high risk for inbreeding, CRV’s mating program SireMatch as well as other programs in the industry, use pedigrees to lower the inbreeding risk by providing safe and effective mating recommendations.

Increase profit marginsWith all of these available tools, dairy

producers are now able to increase profit margins without having to increase production drastically or expand, and

can see the benefits in breeding a longer lasting, healthier cow. According to Brett Haines, CRV USA Breeding Program Coordinator, “The genomic age has given us a tool to manage the large amount of data we have received on farms, and has allowed us to turn these into precision tools for farmers.” Using these tools, combined with trust in their genetic provider such as CRV, producers have the ability to breed long lasting, functional cattle needed to thrive in these challenging times. l


CMUS01_Longevity.indd 21 29-01-13 16:16


CMUS01_p22.indd 22 30-01-13 08:46

“Passion for Grass” releasedThe Barenbrug Holding Board recently released a new Royal Barenbrug Group corporate brochure entitled “Passion for Grass”.

Barenbrug statement: We specialize

High tonnage per acre from E2 mixtureAlfalfa is the mainstay forage for confi nement dairies all around the United States.

After many years of research, Barenbrug has made the King of Forages even more supreme. Barenbrug has perfected the synergistic combination of alfalfa with grass by identifying the cultivars and proportions that provide the maximum yield when planted together as well as improving the energy value and nutritional properties of the silage.

Barenbrug has partnered with Dairyland Seeds, the exclusive developers of hybrid alfalfa technology (msSunstra®), in bringing this unique product to the market.

E2 contains grasses that grow in the same rhythm as alfalfa. E2 contains grasses and alfalfa that have very high energy values. In E2, alfalfa and

For more detail: http://www.barenbrug.com/about-barenbrug/passion-for-grass

grasses are formulated for sowing in a single pass in one drill box. Above all, E2 increases yield and stand longevity compared to alfalfa alone.

E2 631 is formulated for dry hay production. Besides hybrid alfalfa, it contains very late heading STF-43 (soft leaf fescue) and very late heading HLR (high leaf ratio) orchard grass. This

combination results in high tonnage per acre throughout the season with a good balance of grass and alfalfa.

Formulated for high quality dairy silage, E2 640 contains hybrid alfalfa along with very late heading STF-43 (soft leaf fescue). E2 640 is formulated for high energy silage from all cuttings throughout the season.

in plant breeding, seed production and the international marketing of seeds for turf, forage grass and legumes. Founded in 1904, our company stands for top quality. We have a turnover of $270 million, with 25 subsidiaries in 16 countries on six continents, making us one of the biggest companies in our fi eld. A fact we value more highly is that we have a passion for grass that we share with our customers and growers; this is something that four generations of the Barenbrug family have shared through to the present day.

Our position in the grass seed market has been achieved not just by putting our craftsmanship into practice. It is a role that we have built up and cultivated over the years. We would never have come this far without the long-term relationships with our customers and seed growers, or without our alliances with key universities and institutes.

The basis for our success is captured in the fi ve core values: Innovation, Partnership, International, Quality and Marketing.

International– “Our fi rst international publication in the United States was titled ‘Money in Grasses’. It dates back to 1910. A century later, that claim rings more true than ever.”

Innovation – “How can we fi nd a sustainable way of contributing to feeding nine billion people, the number that will have to be met by 2050?”

Partnership – “Added value for the end user means added value for our partners.”

Quality – “Quality is in our genes. It is just the start.”

Marketing – “You don’t become Great in Grass overnight.”


F O R A G E N E W S

For more information on BARENBRUG products and services contact customer services: Tel. 800.547.4101BARENBRUG web address: www.barusa.com • BARENBRUG email address: [email protected]

CMUS01_BarenbrugNews.indd 23 01-02-13 10:25

End of dehorning in sight

A well-known genetic combination gives an animal horns or not.

“If an animal has two polled genes (PP), it is homozygous polled and does not have horns,” explains Chuck Sattler, Select Sires vice president of genetic programs. “If an animal has one polled gene and one horned gene (PH), it is heterozygous and does not have horns. If an animal has two horned genes (HH), it is homozygous horned and has horns.”

Increasing the frequency of the polled phenotype is much easier and faster than increasing the frequency of the red phenotype, a recessive gene, for example. Polled genetic combinations exist in reasonable frequency among today’s Holsteins and Jerseys.

What about the next generation? Figures 1 and 2 describe the possible offspring outcomes.

Polled genetics pool increasesIn years past, polled dairy cattle

genetics were relatively limited. Many producers felt they gave up too much in production and type to include polled in their breeding program. Decisions about production and type kept the pool of polled genetics fairly small.

Times have changed. Holstein and Jersey breeders now have a larger polled genetics pool and there are even some homozygous polled Holstein and Jersey bulls available. All offspring from these bulls are polled.

Despite overall lower genetic merit of polled vs. non-polled cattle, several

factors contribute to the growing interest in polled. Aaron Palmer, Accelerated Genetics sire analyst, explains some of the reasons why: 1) use of genomics and in vitro fertilization (IVF) to more quickly discover and propagate elite polled cattle; 2) rise in market values for polled, relative to

non-polled; 3) farmers caring about their animals; 4) breeders’ desires to reduce the cost and stress of dehorning; and 5) use of polled bulls provides an “outcross” option.

Roy MacGregor of DairyBullsOnLine, Walkerton, Ontario, Canada, concurs with Palmer that the advent of genomics has helped advance interest in polled genetics. “In the past, there were no super proven polled bulls available. Those interested in breeding for polled used young sires.”

Bill Hageman, USA genetics manager for Semex, says, “We have easily seen a considerable rise in popularity in the polled gene the last couple of years. Sales of polled sires have increased and there is considerable interest from

There is a considerable rise in popularity in the polled gene the last couple of years

Holstein and Jersey breeders have a larger polled genetics pool

and there are even some homozygous polled bulls available.

Despite lower genetic merit of polled vs. non-polled cattle,

several factors contribute to the growing interest in polled.

by JoDee Sattler

Rapid genetic change improving prospects for more polled dairy cattle

B R E E D I N G

24 C O W M A N A G E M E N T f E B R u a R y 2 0 1 3

CMUS01_Polled.indd 24 01-02-13 10:02

become customers of those breeding for polled today. Don’t wait to include polled in your breeding program; just start.”

How has genetic improvement occurred so rapidly within polled genetics? Hageman says that using IVF and genomic technologies make it possible to achieve faster gains than in the past. “At the same time, the breeder is working with a very small pool of sires and females, and has to be realistic in trying to achieve production increases.”

For owners of elite purebred cattle, Palmer recommends mating one or more top non-polled females to a polled

bull. There’s a downside, however. Because polled bulls’ genetic merit is typically lower and not all offspring will be polled, the resulting non-polled offspring will generally be of low value. On the upside, polled offspring may be worth substantially more than their non-polled siblings.

Hageman says polled breeders need to be aggressive. “Try incorporating the polled gene into the best available non-polled population to put future polled cattle on a more competitive genetic level faster.” He adds that Semex recognizes the polled and Red & White Holstein genes are often associated together. “But because each is at a low gene frequency in the population, selecting for both further limits improvement for type and, especially, production.”

Polled vs. non-polled geneticsBased on the December 2012 sire

summary, polled genetics lag behind non-polled genetics. Currently, top polled Holstein young sires are 300-400 TPI points lower than the highest non-polled young sires. “As a whole, polled Holsteins are inferior for PTA milk, fat and protein,” says Palmer. “However, if the frequency of polled matings and intensity of polled selection increases, we should see rapid improvement in the genetic merit of polled bulls. With intense selection for elite polled cattle, the divide between polled and non-polled genetic merit will likely narrow with each generation.”

Why should breeders include “polled” in their breeding program? MacGregor cited results from the Venture Genetics Complete Dispersal held on Dec. 7, 2012, Guelph, Ontario, Canada. The 37 polled live females averaged $19,755, whereas the 14 horned live females averaged $4,390.

“Simply said, polled can add

some European countries. Even more telling is the number of non-polled breeders that are researching and asking about the opportunities.”

Polled bulls or cows can be tested to determine if they are heterozygous or homozygous polled.

Breeding considerationsGiven the many factors to consider,

how should dairy producers use polled in their breeding program? Sattler says that selecting for polled requires sacrifi ces in other traits. “Don’t expect to fi nd polled bulls with the same levels of Total Performance Index (TPI) or Net Merit Dollars (NM$) as non-polled bulls.”

Yet, MacGregor feels the dairy industry is way too concerned about parent averages. Dairy producers can now select from several bulls with more than 500 NM$ and 2,000 Genomic TPI. “Today’s polled genetics is just one generation behind non-polled genetics. Those waiting to use polled are going to

Figure 1: A heterozygous polled bull (PH, polled) is mated with a homozygous horned cow (HH, horned).This mating yields 50% heterozygous polled (PH) and 50% homozygous horned (HH)

Figure 2: A homozygous polled bull (PP, no horns) is mated with a homozygous horned cow (HH).This mating yields 100% heterozygous polled (PH)

P H

H PH HH

H PH HH

P P

H PH PH

H PH PH


CMUS01_Polled.indd 25 01-02-13 10:02

tremendous value,” says Hageman. Currently, polled is a very popular breeding scheme. “Therefore, having some elite animals in a small population has the potential to markedly increase their value. With very limited animals carrying the gene and more broad appeal, polled creates instant value.”

Polled genes in contractsAlso, Brett Haines, breeding manager

of CRV US, noticed a lot of interest in polled genes. “Not only breeders, but also commercial dairy herd owners are more and more interested. Sires with PP genes are popular, because all their offspring are polled. For commercial herds, it is diffi cult when some calves have horns and some do not. That is why double-PP bulls, like our bull De Vrendt Paulus, are more popular.”

How are AI companies using “polled”

in their mating contracts? Over the past year, Semex has used several polled young bulls as mating sires. “They were popular enough that breeders and owners of elite cattle were able to use them on their very best non-polled, black and white Holstein females,” says Hageman. “This gives us an opportunity to quicken genetic progress on the resulting offspring and further increase the appeal of the gene pool for this group.”

Palmer says Accelerated Genetics’ polled dairy matings have increased as a percentage of total contract matings.

At Select Sires, Sattler says they have increased the number of polled Holstein and Jersey bulls they acquire each year. “We’ll bring in fi ve to 10 polled Holsteins and three to four polled Jerseys in 2013. We’ll probably continue at these levels until semen sales tell us

we need additional (or fewer) bulls.”Is polled a fad or is it here to stay?

It appears to have a place, but implementing polled genetics into a breeding program without considering the decrease in genetic level will slow genetic progress in a dairy herd. Hageman says, “In almost all cases, you cannot afford to use the polled gene simply to get the gene at the expense of genetic potential and value. Be selective when choosing bulls, regardless of coat color and/or polled status.”

Hageman adds, the marketplace is currently establishing added value for polled genetics. However, it only extends to the offspring that are competitive genetically. “Use common sense and maintain high standards in breeding and/or merchandising programs.” l

Not only breeders, but also commercial dairy herd owners are more and more interested in polled genes

B R E E D I N G


CMUS01_Polled.indd 26 01-02-13 10:03

Large dairy farms

Social media and the dairy industry

With over 800 million unique visitors each month, it’s no wonder YouTube is the second most traffi cked website. Social media outlets, such as YouTube, are becoming more important every day in the farming business.

These outlets give producers the ability to interact with one another and engage with consumers by showcasing their stories, products and news with the click of a mouse. Trends in technology are not only bridging communications gaps, but also connecting generations, cultures, businesses and consumers.

At Lely, we utilize social media outlets, such as YouTube, to tell our story, share customer experiences and keep up with members of the Lely “family.” Join us!

For more than two decades Lely has been producing, installing and developing robotic milking systems. Lely takes pride in the fact that large dairy farm managers around the world are now milking their herd over three times per day with Lely Astronaut milking robots. This success is based in the trust that farm managers have in Lely’s thoroughly thought out system, as well as the practical experience and excellent results Lely has with large farms.

Thanks to the Astronaut robotic milking system there are many factors in large herds

that can also be controlled on an individual cow basis; factors that cannot be controlled in a conventionally milked herd. Solving problems with availability of labor and benefi ts from individual cow management are just two reasons why large dairy farms are becoming more aware that the Lely Astronaut robotic milking system ensures the best return on investment.

For more information about successful robotic milking on large dairy farms, visit www.Lely.com

Since pasture grazing and automatic milking go hand in hand, Lely has developed the Grazeway separation gate as a tool to handle grazing effi ciently. The Lely Grazeway offers you full control of grazing by recognizing if your cow is still to be milked or is allowed out to pasture.

The Grazeway is installed at the exit of the barn where the cows go to the pasture. While entering the separation gate, the cow is recognized by its neck responder. The Lely Grazeway operates through a paddock grazing system

which offers you the ease of selecting different paddocks on a time related schedule. Cows will automatically be sent to the next paddock after a set time period. The double gate system always guides the cows into the right place, even when they are following close to each other.

The Lely Grazeway selection box is the simplest and most effective solution with the quickest installation.

To learn more about the Grazeway, visit www.Lely.com

Lely Grazeway – Offering your cows a choice

Scan this QR code to view and subscribe to Lely’s YouTube channel.


For more information on LELY products and services, call 1-866-LELY USA. LELY web address: www.lely.com, LELY email address: [email protected]

L E L Y I N F O

CMUS01_LelyNews.indd 27 01-02-13 09:21

Evaluating feed intake

When you begin to categorize the many things that affect how much

a cow eats, you can start to troubleshoot the areas where improvement is needed. Each of the three main areas of concentration can contribute to eating behavior.

Cow factorsAnimals eat more as they get older, but this is driven a lot by size. Pregnant animals have a higher energy and

protein requirement than non-pregnant cows, but the two main drivers in this category are size and production (energy corrected milk).

Basically, larger cows eat more. They have a higher maintenance requirement (more energy is needed) and they generally have more rumen volume. As body weight (BW) increases, so does DMI. However, as a percent of BW, it actually decreases (see Table 1), assuming the same level of milk production and stage of lactation. Cows that produce more milk that contains higher levels of fat will consume generally more feed.

Feed factorsProviding a properly balanced diet that contains the correct amount of metabolizable energy and protein in relation to what the animals needs is critical to optimize intake and production. Having feed available at all times is critical in supporting optimal DMI. Feed availability is influenced by the amount of time cows are away from feed, amount of bunk space (4 vs. 6 row barns; 2 ft per cow vs. 18 inches), percent over-crowding, the number of times cows are fed and frequency that feed is pushed up, and the amount of feed provided (feeding to an empty bunk vs crumbs in the bunk).

Research has shown that feeding multiple times per day can increase the DMI of the herd. The increase in DMI is achieved through the subordinate cows. Multiple feedings provides the subordinate cows with more chances and more time to eat. Higher DMIs were achieved with multiple feedings compared to groups fed once per day, but with feed pushed up several times per day to insure feed was available all the time.

Feeding high quality forages is central to achieving optimal DMI and economical milk production. The higher the quality of forages available, more forage typically can be fed, resulting in more milk production. Spain reported a trial by Kawas (1983) where they fed four different maturities of hay at four levels of forage: concentrate ratio and they measured 4% FCM. As you would expect, milk production increased as the level of forage was lowered. In addition, significantly more milk was reported in cows fed the less mature forage (see Table 2).

Environmental factorsThe amount of time a cow has access to feed is very important. We can provide the best forages in the world, along with the best ration, but if cows have limited availability to the feed her intake is reduced. Management decisions such as the milking frequency, time in the

If we improve our understanding of what influences DMI,

we can begin to evaluate what limits DMI and reduces milk

production. Three main factors affect DMI on the dairy:

the cow, the feed and the environment.

by Doug Waterman

A primary factor contributing to high milk production is optimizing dry matter intake (DMI)

Table 1: DMI as a % of body weight

17

2245

6

10

feed & management 22%BCS 6%climate 10%body weight 17%yield 45%

Figure 1: Factors that affect DMI in lactating dairy cows and the amount of variability explained by each factor

percent forage in diet

maturity 80 63 46 29prebloom 36.2 37.8 39.6 39.1early bloom 30.9 31.4 35.1 35.1midblooom 26.0 28.4 29.4 29.4late bloom 23.7 25.2 31.8 31.6

Table 2: The effect of stage of maturity and forage to concentrate ratio on production of 4% FCM (Spain, J. 1996 Alberta Proceedings)

f e e D I n g

(kg) lbs (kg) lbs

% of BW

20.6 45.4 550 1213 3.7021.3 47.0 600 1323 3.5521.8 48.1 650 1433 3.3522.4 49.4 700 1543 3.20

DMI body weight

28 C O W M A N A G E M E N T f e b r u A r y 2 0 1 3

CMUS01_TrouwFeature.indd 28 01-02-13 09:13

conditions. Some reports have shown intakes are depressed more in cows than heifers during hot weather. Under cold conditions, intake generally increases to provide more energy for maintenance. However, in severely cold conditions intakes decrease because of many less frequent eating.

A lot of factors impact the DMI of the

lactating dairy cow. Providing high quality forages and a well-balanced ration is a very important fi rst step. However, providing adequate bunk and water space, limiting over-crowding, reducing time away from feed, and minimizing severe weather stress are extremely valuable in optimizing DMI. l

holding area/parlor, time in palpation rails and or in headlocks for vet checks minimizes the amount of time a cows has access to feed and lying down. Both will impact DMI and overall performance.

A lot of research reports on crowding and bunk space. Brouk et al (2001) compared the amount of area, feed space and water space for animals housed in 4- and 6-row barns stocked at 100 to 140% of capacity. Table 3 illustrates the reduction on the amount of space a cow has for herself, as the overcrowding is increased up to 140% of capacity. This is accentuated in 6-row barns.

Another factor that we must always take into account when assessing DMI is cow comfort and the percent lameness. Lame cows do not eat as often and so intakes are reduced. Overcrowding and limited bunk space is additive for lame cows. Research has shown that “Elite” cows (top 10%) will lay down 59% compared to 49% for the average. Eating time was not affected, but the extra lying time is benefi cial for rumination.

Cows experiencing “heat stress” can experience reductions in DMI of 6 to 16% compared to thermal neutral

Many factors impact the DMI of lactating cows.

cow factors feed factors environmental factors

age balanced diet crowding/bunk space/cow comfortsize quality of forages water availabilitypregnancy status availability of diet time away from feedproduction bunk surface/cleanliness heat/cold stress

Table 4: Factors that impact DMI

4-row 6-row 4-row 6-row 4-row 6-row

100 94 71 29 18 3.6 2.25110 85.5 64.5 26 16 3.27 2.05120 78.3 59.2 24 15 3 1.88130 72.3 54.6 22 14 2.77 1.73140 67.1 50.7 21 13 2.57 1.61

stocking rate (%)

area (ft2/cow)

feedline space (linear in./cow)

water space (linear in./cow)

Table 3: Effect of stocking density on space/cow for area, feed and water in 4- and 6-row barns (Broulk, Smith, and Harner. 2001 5th Western Herd Conference)


CMUS01_TrouwFeature.indd 29 01-02-13 09:13

Understanding grass

Y ou’ve decided that you want to use grass in your dairy ration. You’re

convinced that the digestible fi ber supplied by modern, high Total Tract Neutral Detergent Fiber digestibility

There are more differences between grass varieties than there

are between alfalfa or corn silage varieties so choose your grass

varieties with care. If there’s room in the cropping rotation,

consider new plantings of grass or grass-alfalfa mixtures.

by Peter Ballerstedt

When shopping for grass varieties, be sure to review forage test values

n NDF range

TTNDFD DDM kd PD NDF

Green Spirit 9 46-56 59.5 75 4.31minimum 47.5 71 2.37maximum 68.2 79 6.72

other grasses 448 46-56 48.3 69 3.27minimum 17.5 52 0.76maximum 67 80 6.72

Table 1: Comparing grasses with similar NDF content Table 2: Composition of high quality silages

% CP % NDF NDFd % NFC

Tall Fescue 22 47 62 20Orchardgrass 18 50 65 21Reed Canarygrass 20 52 68 17Perennial Ryegrass 18 48 68 23Italian Ryegrass 20 46 68 23Alfalfa 20 40 68 23Corn Silage 9 41 68 41

(TTNDFd) grasses will improve the health of your cows and the profi tability of your farm. Now you’re asking “Where am I going to get that grass?” Like any other forage, you can

purchase it, have it grown for you, or grow it yourself.

When shopping for grass varieties, be sure to review forage test values. Grasses vary tremendously in forage quality (see Tables 1 and 2). Specifying a species of grass won’t get you what you need. Varieties within a species differ signifi cantly in NDFd, even when harvested at the same stage of maturity (see Table 3). Remember, seemingly small numbers can add up. Increasing NDFd by just 0.5% can mean one pound more milk per head per day. Dan Undersander, University of Wisconsin forage agronomist, says there are more

M A N A G E M E N T


CMUS01_BarenbrugFeature.indd 30 01-02-13 09:27

new plantings of grass or grass-alfalfa mixtures. Research has shown that well-planned grass-alfalfa mixtures out-yield straight alfalfa or grass stands.

When planning a mixture, be certain that the maturity rating of the grass match the maturity date of the alfalfa. Late maturing soft leaf fescue, for example, will not fl ower prior to when alfalfa is at optimum quality (fi rst bloom), and its regrowth will remain vegetative which ensures high quality successive cuttings. Drilling soft leafed fescue will produce forage for several seasons. A late heading variety is key for plantings with alfalfa. A good question to ask your seed supplier is how many days later is heading compared to Fawn fescue or Kentucky 31. The right fescue is about 21 days later heading than Fawn and 14 days later heading than Kentucky 31.

Alternatively, you may extend the life of a thinning alfalfa stand by drilling in some grass. For example, drilling true forage Italian ryegrass (not to be confused with Westerwold annual ryegrass) can provide an additional

season of very high quality production. Before purchasing ‘forage’ Italian ryegrass seed, ask your dealer if the grass may head out if sown in spring. A true forage Italian ryegrass does not form a seedhead in summer when sown in spring.

Mixture with small grainsAnother option is to seed a true

forage Italian ryegrass in a mixture with small grains, like wheat and triticale, for forage. The fi rst cutting will be primarily the cereal forage, but it will be higher quality (more protein and higher NDFd) due to the Italian ryegrass content. Successive cuts can then be made at 28 day intervals, producing higher quality forage (see Table 4). A signifi cant advantage of this option is that it provides multiple opportunities to apply manure.

Whatever your situation, you need to consider how your operation could benefi t from utilizing modern high TTNDFd cool-season grasses. And as you implement your plan be sure that you’re getting these modern grasses. l

differences between grass varieties than between alfalfa or corn silage varieties so choose your grass varieties with care. You could ask for hay of a specifi c variety of grass, but that’s not a reliable way to get the quality you need. So, when buying grass hay, or any other forage, always ask for a forage analysis.

Sharing yield data If you contract with a farmer to

produce your forages, your task of acquiring high TTNDFd grass is simpler than buying it from a broker. But you may face the grower’s reluctance to try something new. Sharing yield data and management information could help. Communicating why you’re making this move could help, too. Many of the options for the contract grower are the same as for the home-grower, so they’ll be discussed later.

The primary challenge is to determine how to integrate grass into your existing cropping system. If there’s room in the cropping rotation, consider

% NDF % NDFd

Bariane 57.9 62.7BarElite 57.9 62.2Kora 58.2 61.0Fawn 61.5 60.1

Table 3: Neutral Detergent Fiber and Neutral Detergent Fiber digestibility differences between varieties of tall fescue (average of three cuts, 2010)

Table 4: Short Lived Forage Trial, 2011-2012, PA, Fall Sowing

CP % ADF% NDF % NDFd 30

Green Spirit 16.8 28.5 49.1 53.2Trical 815 Triticale 16.9 28.4 48.2 50.1W1566 Wheat 16.5 26.7 46.3 44.3Aroostock Rye 16.3 32.2 53.7 47.1FS 950 Barley 15.5 27.3 47.1 48.5


CMUS01_BarenbrugFeature.indd 31 01-02-13 09:28

Forage quality key in reproduction

Reproductive performance is infl uenced by various factors,

with nutrition being one of them. In fact, Donna Amaral-Phillips, Extension Professor with the University of Kentucky says that the key to getting cows to milk to their genetic potential and getting them bred back is providing a well-balanced diet of quality forages, grain and a mineral and vitamin mix that maximizes consumption of the ration.

“Energy is the most common nutrient limiting reproductive performance,” says Amaral-Phillips. “While milk production peaks approximately six weeks or so into lactation, feed intake peaks at around ten weeks, which means cows are in negative energy balance during this period and rely on their body condition to meet energy needs not provided in the diet.”

Losing body condition Amaral-Phillips continues to say that

dairy cattle losing body condition during early lactation is detrimental to reproductive performance. And, high energy diets in lactating dairy cattle have also shown an effect on signaling ovary cycling.

“Animals that lose an excessive amount of weight during early lactation

show longer intervals to fi rst ovulation, lower fi rst service conception rate at 44 percent, more services conception at 2.32 and overall more days open,” she says. “On the other hand, cows gaining weight have a 67 percent conception rate with 1.5 services per conception.”

While heifers present different reproductive challenges than lactating cattle, their body condition score also needs close monitoring to avoid problems getting bred and issues post calving. More specifi cally, Amaral-Phillips states that offering well balanced diets to heifers is important in helping them reach optimum breeding age and to calve with minimal problems. Overconditioned springing heifers may have greater problems with dystocia.

This feeding philosophy also rings true with dry and transition cows. “Recent research has shown overfeeding energy during the dry period can have detrimental effects on future reproduction, especially ovulation and pregnancy rates,” says Amaral-Phillips. “Feeding heifers and dry cows the proper amount of energy but not overfeeding energy is a better option and is a good option in today’s world with rising feed costs.”

Focusing on energy and providing a balanced diet is even more important

this year as many crops showed lower than normal starch levels due to drought conditions.

Balancing this year’s ration Faith Cullens with Michigan State

University Extension states that the only thing constant with last year’s crop is that the drought caused variability in results, particularly yields and starch levels in corn silage. However, she says that feeding corn silage from drought-stressed plants is a productive, cost-effective way to feed dairy cattle.

“Harvesting corn silage from plants that produced little to no grain was a reality for many producers in 2012 and they are left with a supply of low-starch corn silage to feed their animals while other producers harvested shorter than normal plants that had normal grain production, resulting in high starch corn silage,” she says. “The diet needs to be closely monitored and supplemented to ensure that energy intake is adequate and feed intake

Working closely with your nutritionist to monitor forage

quality, balancing the energy in the diet, and meeting nutrient

needs is the best way to maintain reproductive performance

while feeding lower quality forages.

by Amy Ryan

Monitoring forage content promotes optimum intake and maintains reproductive performance

F E E D I N G

Nutrition affects reproduction. Forage quality impacts intake and digestibility, so monitoring it periodically is a key to maintaining reproductive performance


CMUS01_ReproRoughage.indd 32 01-02-13 09:16

from other forages or by-products.Amaral-Phillips also emphasizes the

importance of forage samples especially in periods of high feed costs. “Dairy producers really need to analyze their forages to ensure that nutrients are being used most effectively and effi ciently in the ration,” she says. “Taking good, quality samples at least once a month and watching the fi ber content in the ration is most important as it is the best indicator of the amount of energy in the diet. As fi ber content increases, digestibility, energy content and potential forage intake decreases.”

Maintain energyOnce the forage composition is

known, Amaral-Phillips says that producers can work with their nutritionist to compensate for energy not provided from the forages and also provide the right amount of minerals and vitamins to minimize reproductive complications.

Amaral-Phillips and Cullens both stress the importance of a properly

managed reproductive program. When looking specifi cally at nutrition’s impact on reproduction, they agree that monitoring forage quality and adjusting the ration as needed to maintain energy levels is a key to optimizing reproductive success.

“Rations must be customized depending on group, heifers, dry cows, transition cows, lactating cows, etcetera,” says Cullens. “Maintaining the correct energy levels and body conditions scores in these various groups of animals is key to getting them bred back quicker. If these levels aren’t maintained, additional grains and by products may need to be added to attain the desired results.”

Amaral-Phillips concludes, “Forage quality impacts energy intake and digestibility. Working closely with your nutritionist to monitor forage quality, balancing the energy in the diet and meeting nutrient needs is the best way to maintain reproductive performance while feeding lower and variable quality forages.” l

levels are maintained when feeding a lower starch diet.”

Amaral-Phillips and Cullens suggest taking forage samples periodically and analyzing the samples for nutrient content. “Although the frequency of analysis depends on various factors, samples should be reanalyzed when forages change and cows’ health or milk production indicate a change has occurred. Sample for forage dry matter daily and run on-farm and nutrient analysis as needed,” Cullens says.

When looking specifi cally at results of the forage tests that may affect reproduction, Cullens says to watch the starch content of corn silage, to ensure it is offering proper amounts of energy while monitoring the protein content of haylage. In addition, measure the moisture content of all forages and other wet feeds in the diet. Overall, she suggests that when feeding forages harvested in 2012, consider specifi c crop conditions and management systems. If a particular forage supply is short, some of the balance can come


CMUS01_ReproRoughage.indd 33 01-02-13 09:16

I was recently called to one of our dairy clients to investigate a pneumonia problem affecting their newly weaned calves.

This dairy raises their calves up to 4-6 months old and then sends them to a heifer grower. Up to this point, pneumonia hadn’t been a big problem in their calf operation.

The group of calves in question had just moved from the calf barn to a newly constructed weaning barn. When I was called, approximately one third of the calves were affected and several had died. Along with catching and examining a group of the sick calves, we performed necropsies on two of the deceased calves. It was clear at this point that we were dealing with severe, acute pneumonia that was not responding to the antibiotic treatment. Samples obtained from the necropsies were sent in to the lab for diagnostics. Laboratory results showed that we were in the midst of a Salmonella dublin pneumonia outbreak.

While the problem appeared to start in the weaned calf barn, the incidence of pneumonia had risen drastically in the preweaned calves. Upon further investigation, it was noted that the calf barn had become quite overcrowded while waiting for the weaning barn construction to be completed. The current protocol was to move calves out of the barn one section at a time, disassemble the pens, wash and sanitize, replace pens, and allowed to stand empty for at least one week before new calves were placed in the pens. These practices had not happened for the period of time

prior to the pneumonia outbreak. In an effort to do a better job cleaning during this period of time, the dairyman decided to power wash the pens while still in place thereby aerosolizing bacteria and exacerbating the problem.

Over the next few weeks we stopped this outbreak by: 1) reducing overcrowding at the source of the infection 2) choosing appropriate antibiotic therapy based on culture

and sensitivity from the samples sent to the diagnostic lab 3) identifying sick calves earlier for timely treatment 4) reducing exposure of healthy cattle by removing sick

calves from the pens for treatment 5) increasing frequency of cleaning/disinfecting of group

waters and feeders 6) improving ventilation in both barns by installing positive

pressure ventilation tubes 7) returning to previously mentioned management cleaning

protocol and discontinuing the use of the power washer with calves present in the barn

8) reducing exposure by feeding youngest to oldest and feeding sick calves last. Several risk factors were identifi ed and corrected in

solving this problem. We may never know how S. dublin arrived on the farm, but we now have protocols to prevent it and other infectious disease outbreaks. Based on my experiences, my recommendation is work closely with your veterinarian to develop prevention strategies for your dairy.

Identify risk factors and develop strategies to prevent disease

Diagnose, develop, prevent

Dr. Eric Duch with United Veterinary Services in Wisconsin discusses a recent encounter with Salmonella dublin pneumonia while working with one of his clients. Namely, how it was diagnosed and contained and the development of a protocol to prevent future outbreaks.

D R . E R I C D U C H


F R O M T H E V E T E R I N A R I A N P R A C T I C E

CMUS01_VetColumn.indd 34 01-02-13 10:48

CRV bulls top the charts

Vekis Chevrolet adds dynamics to CRV InSire lineup

The December 2012 sire evaluations for CRV presented a strong foundation for high type, efficient production and lifetime profitability. With several new Holstein sires and all the previous favorites showcasing functional type, high milk solids, and increasing milk production; their daughters are sure to exceed expectations for efficiency and profitable production in their lifetime.

One of CRV’s newest releases Chevrolet (Freddie x Planet) has soared to the top as one of the top genomic GTPI bulls this proof run with a +2490 GTPI. Along with Chevrolet, several of CRV’s new young sires boost very promising numbers. Yorick (Atwood x Shottle) hailes from Canada with +4.29 PTAT, +3.13 UDC, and +3.74 FLC. Archer (Altatonic x Planet) shows a functional balance of type and production. Half-brother to InSire Laken, Light (Snowman x Bolton)

Newly added to the CRV lineup is InSire, Vekis Chevrolet-ET. Debuting with a GTPI of +2490, Chevrolet is adding excitement to the already established CRV lineup. Chevrolet is from the well-respected Larcrest Crimson-ET cow family.

His dam, Larcrest Chenoa-ETS (Planet x Ramos) VG-87 has put up impressive production numbers just like her dam, Larcrest Crimson-ET EX-91. Larcrest Crimson-ET (Ramos x Shottle) has left her mark on the Holstein breed as the #8 GTPI cow of the breed. Her and her 3 daughters by Planet rank as 4 of the top 35 cows of the breed.

Preceded by over seven generations of VG and EX cows, Chevrolet offers producers the perfect combination of style and production with scores of +2490 GTPI, +2427 lbs M, and +161

comes from a long line of VG and EX cows with outstanding production records as he is +1621 lbs M, and is also over 2200 points GTPI. Light offers improvements in both frame and udder.

CRV’s Jersey program has made sure to keep pace with the Holstein program. Kindle (Zuma x Jas Bungy) is the number

lbs F and P combined. He will also add longevity and profitability to every daughter with 6.3 PL and 920 $NM.

one genomically tested bull for Cheese Merit $ in the US at +719. Two other Jersey bulls made CRV’s lineup this proof run. Musket and Hero both are over +50 lbs F and +30 lbs P.

Sun Valley Bungy Kordelia EX-91, dam of Kindle

Larcrest Crimson-ET EX-91, granddam of Chevrolet

For more information on CRV’s genetics and services, visit our website at www.crv4all.us

C R V B R E E D I N G N E W S

35C O W M A N A G E M E N T f E B R u a R y 2 0 1 3

CMUS01_CRVNews.indd 35 29-01-13 15:19

Make meetings time well spent

members may not “agree on” the decision. However, involved individuals should “agree to” the next step. For example, a team member may say, “I might not agree with implementing OvSynch in our reproduction program, but I agree to purchase the needed tools and products, give the necessary shots, collect reproductive performance data and report results back to the management team.”

Keep meetings ‘fresh’Admittedly, meetings can become a

little mundane; Holden says to “change it up” periodically. For example, move the meeting to a different location. If you typically meet in the farm offi ce, meet at a restaurant or around an outside picnic table. “Changing location can be very powerful in generating a different mood and/or environment.”

Also, consider changing roles. “If you have one person who has to discuss every point, giving him a job may help move the meeting along,” says Holden. “Don’t assign a mundane task just to give him something to do but fi nd a meaningful way for him to contribute. If that team member has a different role, this may modify his ‘bad habit’ of always having something to say.”

What motivates some people to be “diffi cult”? Possibly, they don’t

Meetings can be a time waster or time well spent. How do you

achieve the latter? Lisa Holden, Penn State Department of Animal Science associate professor, says the key is to “be prepared,” whether you’re a team member or meeting facilitator. Additionally, team members should: share in the workload, contribute, support team goals and share concerns

prior to the meeting. The meeting facilitator should: develop the agenda, distribute handouts and notes from the previous meeting, include everyone in the discussion, manage time and provide structure to the meeting.

Holden says a facilitator and team members need to realize that there will be dissent during team meetings. When faced with a diffi cult decision, team

Is there a ‘joker’, ‘center stage’ or ‘my way or the highway’

person hindering progress in farm team meetings? Lisa Holden

of Penn State offers some tips on dealing with challenging

meeting participants.

by JoDee Sattler

Effective team meetings require a sound facilitator and on-task participants

M A N A G E M E N T


CMUS01_Farmmembers.indd 36 29-01-13 16:27

understand what is expected of them. Or, they don’t buy in and can’t see what’s in it for them. “The ‘what’s in it for me (WIIFM)’ person does not understand why he has to be at the meeting,” says Holden. “Look for clues to see if you have a WIIFM attending team meetings. Make sure people are engaged in the discussion.”

Use ‘I messages’Even though they’re often suggested

for kindergarteners, Holden strongly believes in “I messages,” without “buts.” She shares an example of the overzealous team member who wants to show other team members a whole bunch of data on a computer. “This bogs down the meeting. It’s tough to show everyone gathered around a table information on a small and poorly lit computer screen.” Instead, encourage this person to provide hard copies.

A positive “I message” could go like this. “I appreciate the work you put into this. Please provide hard copies of the information so everyone can follow along as you explain the data.” An “I message” with a “but” could go like this. “I appreciate the work you put into this, but it’s just too diffi cult for everyone to see the data and we don’t have time today.” The “but” in this statement discourages the team member from

contributing and now he doesn’t feel like a valuable part of the team.

Dealing with diffi cult peopleHolden says challenging people come

in many different “packages.” She describes three types – the “joker,” the person seeking “center stage” and the “my way or the highway” person.

Admittedly, the “joker” can lighten the mood during tough discussions. However, frequent jokes can be distracting. Holden offers a couple suggestions. Ask the “joker” to share his joke right after the meeting starts and then move on to business.

The “center stage” person likes to be in the spotlight and can be long winded. How do you handle this? Find a way to limit discussion, possibly by setting a timer. Holden says she sometimes uses “consensus cards,” which are red, yellow and green. Each team member gets a set of three colored cards. The green card means, “I believe we have come to a consensus and let’s move on.” The yellow card means, “I have a question or would like to make a comment.” The person is given 30 seconds for this question/comment. The red card means, “I object.” The person is given 90 seconds to share that objection. “This tool helps break up long-winded speeches.”

Another strategy for dealing with the

center stage person is for the facilitator to call on that person last when input is sought from each team member. “People tend to follow the person in front of them,” says Holden. Thus, if you start with a person who makes succinct comments, the next person is apt to do the same. By the time the center stage person gets to speak, most points have been shared. On the other hand, if the center stage person speaks fi rst, then everyone feels they need to give a “speech” and the meeting lingers.

For the “my way or the highway” person, recognize the person for making good points. However, the facilitator needs to seek compromise for the team’s success. If this person thinks he is always right, then it’s diffi cult for him to see the “other side.” To help this person gain a broader perspective, ask this person to research the opposing view and present what he learned back to group. Another suggestion is to ask that person to do some partial budgeting – look at the numbers of how that program would “pencil out.”

For team meetings to be effective, Holden says to be prepared with strategies for dealing with challenging individuals. Also, be fl exible. “There is not a ‘cookie cutter’ approach to conducting effective meetings, as people, teams and farms are different.” l


CMUS01_Farmmembers.indd 37 29-01-13 16:27

S H O W S A N D E V E N T S

A2 mi lk, cow health and South Afr ica

April 2013 – We take a closer look into A2 milk, a milk variation which is popular in Australia and the United Kingdom. Cow health always is an important topic in CowManagement, plus we have farm report about a producer in South Africa.

C O M I N G U P

New life and the start of a new lactationPicture: Nick Sarbacker

Cow Management is published six times per

year by CRV Publishing

Editorial teamChief editor Jaap van der KnaapContributing writers Peter Ballerstedt, Matthew Costello, Amy Ryan, Jill Sakai, JoDee Sattler, Ben Smink, Doug WatermanEditing, design and production CRV Publishing

Chief editor’s addressP.O. Box 454, 6800 AL ArnhemThe NetherlandsPhone 0031 26 38 98 829 Fax 0031 26 38 98 839E-mail [email protected]

SubscriptionsCow Management is available free of charge to customers of CRV, 2324 American Lane, Madison, WI 53704.If you want to ask for a subscription or to cancel a subscription send an e-mail to [email protected]

AdvertisementsBock & Associates, Inc.: Tom Bock, Lindsay Boelter and Alison JohnsonPhone 952-905-3210 E-mail [email protected]

Illustrations/picturesPhotographs by CRV Publishing Photography, Rick Mooney (5), Matt Wisniewski (5), Francois Wieringa (11), Nick Sarbacker (12, 13) and Els Korsten (17, 29).

DisclaimerCowManagement does not necessarily share the views expressed by contributors. No responsibility is accepted for the claims made by advertisers. No responsibility can be accepted by CRV Holding BV for the opinions expressed by contributors. Whilst every effort is made to obtain reliable and accurate information, liability cannot be accepted for errors. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical including photocopying, recording, or any information storage or retrieval system without the express prior written consent of the publisher.

Printer Schumann Printers Inc.

February 12-14: World Ag Expo, Tulare, CAFebruary 20-22: VSFA Nutritional Management & Cow College, Roanoke, VAFebruary 21- 22: 28th Annual Southwest Nutrition and Management Conference, Tempe, AZFebruary 27-28: 8th Annual I-29 Dairy Conference, Sioux Falls, SDMarch 6-8: Western Dairy Management Conference, Reno, NVMarch 11-13: Annual Meeting of the ASAS Midwestern Section and the ADSA Midwestern Branch, Des Moines, IAMarch 12-14: 48th NDHIA Annual Meeting, TradeWinds Island Grand Resort, St. Pete Beach, FLMarch 12-13: Professional Dairy Producers of Wisconsin Annual Business Conference, Madison, WIMarch 18 12:00 CDT: Far Off to Fresh Cow – Opportunities to Improve Transition Performance. DAIReX NET WebinarsMarch 29-30: Mid-East Spring National Holstein Show, Columbus, OH April 3-4: Quebec Spring Holstein Show, Victoriaville, QC, CanadaApril 4-5: Dairy Calf and Heifer Association Annual Conference, Lancaster, PAApril 8 12:00 CDT: Economic Analysis Tools for Dairy Reproduction Programs. DAIReXNET WebinarsApril 10: 49th Florida Dairy Production Conference, Gainesville, FLApril 12-15: New York Spring Dairy Carousel, Syracuse, NYApril 20: Midwest National Spring Show, Jefferson, WI

C O N T A C T S


C O N TA C T S

CMUS01_Contacts.indd 38 01-02-13 09:39

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CowManagement US February 2013

Documents

e n t f e b r u

r e p o r t

t u r e s

larson acres b r e e

c o n t e n t s3c o

growing corn

issue of cow

grass varieties