Close monitoring of dietary protein, shade, cooling systems and ventilation will all keep cows cooler during the heat of summer.

Spring turnout is right around the corner, and after a year of drought, it’s no surprise producers are hopeful for a better outlook in 2023.

Since 1944, the National Research Council has established basic nutritional guidelines and recommendations for dairy cows. Over the subsequent 75-plus years, this organization has generated eight sets of these reports, the last one being in 2001, so 20 years ago. Needless to say, a lot has changed in those 20 years. 

Since calves are the animals most vulnerable and sensitive to change on a dairy, transitions are critical for calves. Just because they are weaned does not mean calves are now home-free without issues. In fact, the month after weaning is really a transition period for calves.