Sudden loss of appetite; decreased milk production; thicker, concentrated, colostrumlike milk; a drop in rumen motility; abnormal tacky or loose feces; and fever are clinical signs reported thus far of an unidentified illness affecting dairy cows in the Southwest. Cases of this contagious illness were first reported several weeks ago in Texas.

Here’s an update on economic factors impacting your dairy’s financial picture.

Here is a quick look at dairy-related news from last week.

Late on Friday, March 8, and hours before the deadline to avoid a partial government shutdown, the Senate passed the bill for a $460 billion spending package that includes funding for six federal agencies by a vote of 75-22. The bill, which was passed by the House with a vote of 339-85 earlier in the week, was then signed by President Joe Biden on Saturday.

Walmart announced it plans to open its third owned-and-operated milk processing facility in central Texas in 2026. The new facility, to be located in Robinson, Texas, between Dallas and Austin, will create nearly 400 new jobs in the community.

Here is a summary of news released this week that will have an impact on your dairy operation.

The FDA recently approved the first-ever qualified health claim for yogurt, recognizing a potential link between its regular consumption and a reduced risk of type-2 diabetes. This is significant news for consumers, yogurt manufacturers and the dairy industry.

Here’s an update on economic factors impacting your dairy’s financial picture as we begin March 2024.

Here’s a summary of news impacting your dairy as we close out the month of February.

Here’s an update on economic factors impacting your dairy’s financial picture as we finish out February 2024.