Regardless of how a producer chooses to breed – either naturally or with synchronization protocols using fertility pharmaceuticals – their goals must involve an approach that maximizes cow health. 

Optimizing the timing of insemination relative to estrus expression is a key factor in achieving high reproductive efficiency in dairy herds.

Not only do these producers gain a higher-value calf that commands a premium from buyers versus beef-on-dairy crossbred calves or full-blood dairy bull calves, but they’re also able to improve conception rates during the hottest months of the year.

Enrolling heifers in an IVF program is extremely advantageous for genetic advancement in any operation. Even small numbers of viable pregnancies from a prepubertal heifer can give a producer the competitive genetic edge that every dairy farmer is aiming to achieve. 

CEO and managing partner of High Plains Ponderosa Dairy, Greg Bethard, joins Matti McBride on the latest episode of the Progressive Dairy Podcast to discuss all things genetics, reproduction and sustainability. Learn how Bethard landed “the best job” he’s ever had, what dairying in southwest Kansas looks like, Bethard’s “infinite” mentality when it comes to his operation and more.

A goal to get an extra lactation out of their cows improved more than herd longevity at Doll’s Dairy Inc. in Pocahontas, Illinois. It also provided additional opportunities to diversify the farm’s revenue streams, including selling beef-on-dairy calves and excess heifer calves.

Proper semen handling may sound commonsensical to many; however, these are the factors that are often the easiest to overlook.