Cold weather can have a significant impact on dairy herds, and failing to address these challenges can lead to decreased milk production, increased health issues and lower overall farm profitability. This article explores practical, research-backed strategies for improving cow comfort during the winter months.

An adjusted feeding program for winter that provides adequate nutrients to sustain increased energy demands at all life stages, coupled with practical farm management strategies, will help keep calves, heifers and lactating cows productive throughout the cold season.

A less-studied strategy to help calves cope with cold stress could be through having a companion. Pair or group housing of calves has become a popular topic of discussion over the past few decades. We conducted a study to measure if pair-housing calves in a dual hutch system could help reduce the effects of cold stress during winter. Read about the study's results.

Have you ever found yourself begging Mother Nature to give you a break? For example, this past winter, Wisconsin experienced several 50-degree temperature swings in one day. It was nice and sunny one day, and then 12 hours later, chilly and damp. Those fluctuations can make calves more vulnerable to scours and respiratory illnesses.

What is it like to dairy in Montana? Three Montana dairymen describe their processes for preparing for harsh winter conditions.

As winter approaches in the U.S., there are measures dairy producers can take to prepare for the cold days and nights ahead. Categories to consider as the colder months get closer include housing, management and nutrition.

Cow comfort and sustainability are probably two of the biggest buzz words right now in the dairy industry.

Calving season is an exciting time for us all as we gear up to welcome our newest calf crop into the world. Get some tips for making it a success.