The type of feed storage and the method of storage and silage are important factors when trying to limit feed losses.

It took five years from concept to construction for Don-Mair Farms Ltd. of Mount Hope, Ontario, to start utilizing a compost-bedded pack barn, but owner Aaron Smith has been pleased with the outcome. This unique barn style has changed a few management aspects of the 80-cow herd but has proven to be a profitable change for the business.

“Today we have a third of the number of cows we had in 1960, and we’re producing more milk,” said Christine Baes of the University of Guelph during her keynote presentation at the 2024 Dairy Cattle Reproduction Council Annual Meeting. “That’s a pretty good sustainability story, but when you Google ‘sustainability and dairy cows,’ you see headlines about cow flatulence. Why is that?”

The 102nd Royal Agricultural Winter Fair that took place Nov. 1-10 did not disappoint. Showcasing some of the best of the best dairy cattle in North America, three dairy breed associations took to the main stage for dairy enthusiasts from around the world to celebrate in downtown Toronto, Ontario.

As a dairy farmer, you are always looking for ways to improve the health and productivity of your herd. One often overlooked but highly beneficial feed supplement is liquid molasses.

Due to the physical nature of farming, it is important to be aware of situations that may cause strains and/or sprains. Sprains and strains of muscles, ligaments or tendons may not seem serious when symptoms first appear. They can start with minor discomfort and may go away after a day or two. But as you continue to complete the same activity, the symptoms may return.

Resiliency, innovation and hard work were several themes found in the wide variety of topics Progressive Dairy covered over the past twelve months. To close out the year, we have compiled a list of the most-read articles on our website from October 2023 to October 2024 and included a few new insights.