Dairy Cattle

All Dairy Cattle Content

A South Dakota Mesonet station in a snow-covered field.

SDSU Extension and South Dakota Mesonet team up to release the Livestock Stress Tool

November 18, 2021

Weather conditions in the Northern Plains can present many challenges for livestock producers. Farmers and ranchers need to be prepared for rapidly changing conditions to provide the best care for their livestock and minimize their risk of losses.

Small group of employees inspecting a milking parlor.

Factores que Afectan la Condición de la Piel del Pezón en el Invierno

Poco a poco y casi sin darnos cuenta, nos vamos adentrando en la estación más fría del año. Prepararnos para la llegada del invierno es importante para asegurar el bienestar animal.

Factors Affecting Teat Skin Condition in Winter

Even though cows are housed in many parts of the country, cold weather may play an important factor in udder health and milk quality.

Silage Moisture Testing Tips

Two key points to keep in mind when making high-quality silage are moisture content before harvest and nutrient content before feeding.

a woman with black hair wearing a black blazer and a mustard shirt

SDSU Extension Dairy Field Specialist Tracey Erickson to Retire

October 15, 2021

After 31 years of providing education and service to South Dakota livestock producers, South Dakota State University Extension Dairy Field Specialist Tracey Erickson has announced her retirement. Her last day is June 21.

Large fans helping to keep Dairy Cattle cool in a livestock housing facility.

Combating Heat Stress in Lactating Dairy Cows

With summer temperatures and higher humidity levels upon us, dairy producers need enact their heat abatement strategies on farm for all livestock.

Putting Manure Handling Safety Into Practice

As livestock producers, we should know the dangers of manure pit gases. As safety equipment improves with advancements in technology, we must provide training on proper manure handling safety protocols and the use of equipment.

A dairy employee wearing gloves, heavy work pants, and a high visibility vest.

Dressing for the Job on Dairies Year-Round

We often check the weather before heading out the door and decide if we need a coat or not. But is the clothing we are wearing protecting us or could it add increased risk as we perform our job? A good share of producers on dairy farms, are now providing their employees with some type of uniform or clothing stipend.

two female ag workers smiling while reviewing a document on the hood of a pickup

Providing Feedback to Employees

Positive feedback can be motivating. It gives the employee a sense of accomplishment, achievement, recognition, and a sense of importance to the business.

Group of black and white, spotted dairy cattle drinking from a water trough.

Water Importance in Lactating Dairy Cows

When considering the importance of water in lactating cow diets, we need to remember that milk is 87 percent water, and its consumption is directly correlated with milk production and feed intake. Water also makes up anywhere from 55 percent to 70 percent of the body weight of a lactating dairy cow, depending upon the phase of the lactation cycle.