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Dairy Cattle

All Dairy Cattle Content

Veterinarian talking with dairy producer inside a dairy cattle barn.

Is There an Ideal Voluntary Waiting Period for Inseminating Your Dairy Cows?

The voluntary waiting period is a crucial management decision that designates a target number of days postpartum, after which cows will be inseminated.

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I-29 Moo University Dairy Beef Short Course scheduled for March 28 in Sioux Falls

May 04, 2023

The I-29 Moo University Dairy Beef Short Course is scheduled for March 28 as part of the pre-educational events for the Central Plains Dairy Expo.

Young, female scientist analyzing genetic code in a laboratory.

How Do Genetics Impact Animal Well-Being?

Genetic engineering is a promising tool that could be used to improve animal welfare while lowering costs of production.

A small group of dairy cattle resting in a pen.

I Got a FARM Corrective Action. Now What?

The Farmers Assuring Responsible Management (FARM) Animal Care Version 4 rolled out January 2020. As dairies have their farms evaluated with this new version, there may be questions about corrective actions.

An dairy farmer and site inspector talking near a fence outside a dairy dairy barn.

Preparing for FARM Animal Care Evaluations

The FARM Animal Care Version 4.0 rolled out January 2020. This article is a condensed tool to aid you in preparing for your next evaluation.

Skidloader outside being used to turn compost pile.

Guidelines for Livestock Carcass Disposal in South Dakota

Everyone who works with animals tries their best to keep all animals alive. In turn, they also know there will always be normal mortality. Proper carcass disposal is crucial in preventing the spread of disease and protecting the environment.

Male and female rancher reviewing clipboard in a cattle barn.

COVID-19 Tips for Farms and Ranches

Continuing to keep employees and family members healthy through the COVID-19 pandemic will require extra effort as you enter the busy time of fall harvest.

A statue of a dairy cow on a landscaped terrace in front of a long dairy barn.

Being Vigilant of Livestock Property Security and Surveillance

Livestock producers have many daily responsibilities when it comes to caring for and protecting their animals. One responsibility is to remain vigilant regarding individuals that oppose the use of animals for food or other purposes.

A group of dairy cattle inside a dairy barn.

Handling Reminders for Dairies: Training Resources

Sources of handling stress are accumulative in cattle. Stockmen can have a positive impact on the amount of stress cattle experience by planning ahead and being realistic about allowing adequate time to get things done well.

Two female dairy workers in a milking parlor. USDA Photo by Aaron Lavelle

Challenges of Employee Turnover: Product quality and consistency

High employee turnover can lead to inconsistent animal production or potentially lower quality products, both meat and milk. How is this possible? Is it because cattle get accustomed to routines and the people who perform tasks in their home environment?