As an adviser to the farmers of my county and beyond, one question I dread the most is “Andy, what am I going to do?”

There is no doubt that the use of routine cultures for mastitis pathogens, both contagious and environmental, is a powerful management tool for maintaining good udder health and milk quality in progressive dairy herds.

As a dairy producer, you know low milkfat in your herd can take money out of your pocket. Additionally, it can be an extremely frustrating problem with no clear and simple solution.

I sometimes hear farmers ask why the checkoff is involved in efforts focused on animal care and sustainability. To me, the answer is simple: the checkoff, nationally and locally, has the unique ability to convene stakeholders and to be a unifying leader to most effectively promote the good work of farmers and the dairy community. 

Anyone who has ever been to a dairy meeting knows all about labels. Folks visiting your farm are often eager to leave behind a hat or something else with their logo on it to remind you of their company and the services or products they offer.

Michelle McBride combines her passions for fitness and health with a new milk-based sports drink.