Texas Dairy Matters

🌟 Nurturing Future Leaders in Dairy Management with the U.S. Dairy Education and Training Consortium 🌟

We are thrilled to highlight the incredible work of the U.S. Dairy Education and Training Consortium (USDETC), a program that's been shaping the future of dairy management since 2008. Established by visionary leaders Dr. Mike Tomaszewski and Dr. Robert Hagevoort, the USDETC bridges the gap between classroom knowledge and practical experience, offering students an unparalleled education in dairy management.

🐄 Key Highlights:

Comprehensive Learning: Combining rigorous classroom instruction with hands-on learning, the Dairy Consortium provides students with real-world dairy management experience.
Top-Tier Faculty: The program selects the best faculty to ensure high-quality education and mentoring.
Significant Impact: Since its inception, 342 students have completed the program, with 67% employed in dairy-related positions. The alumni survey reveals the program’s profound impact, with 92% rating it as highly important.
🌟 Looking to the Future:
As we celebrate the past successes of the USDETC, we also look forward with optimism. There is a need for passionate individuals to sustain and expand this vital program, potentially transforming it into a capstone course in dairy management across universities.

If you want to learn more about the USDETC, become a sponsor, or volunteer, visit USDETC Website or reach out to Dr. Tomaszewski at [email protected] or Dr. Hagevoort at [email protected].

Let's continue nurturing the future leaders of the dairy industry together! 🥛✨


https://texasdairymatters.tamu.edu/files/2024/06/USDETC_June-2024.pdf

We regret to announce that we have decided to cancel the 2024 Southwest Dairy Day. However, we intend to bring back this event in the Fall of 2025. We hope to see you all next year!

🤔 A new processing technology may be a game changer for sorghum silage?
🙌 In collaboration with Scherer Inc. we conducted a study to assess their new KP technology designed to maximize sorghum berry processing.
😲 It achieved a 1.7 BPS of 56%, which is 3X higher than 17% the goal suggested by Raver et al., 2023.
🥛 Combined with 3 mo. fermentation length it achieved a remarkable rumen in-situ SD after 7 h of incubation of 66%. This is only 12% below the 75% isSD7 average for corn silage in the U.S. from RRL samples in 2023.
🥂 We appreciate and value the collaboration with colleagues for this and other sorghum research projects and our hard-working students Douglas Duhatschek and Artur Grando Pilati

👇 Interested? More info in the link below:https://texasdairymatters.tamu.edu/files/2024/05/Strategies-to-include-sorghum-silage-in-lactating-cow-rations.-Part-3-2.pdf

Have you heard the latest about Texas and its booming dairy industry? As of the end of 2023, we're just a hair behind Idaho in milk production, trailing by only 1.4%! It's a remarkable journey, considering Texas has seen an 11.5 billion pound increase in milk production since 2003 - that's a whopping growth rate of about 195%!

This incredible surge has catapulted Texas from being the ninth to the fourth largest milk-producing state in the U.S. We even surpassed New York in 2020, moving up from fifth to fourth place.

So, here's to Texas dairy 🥛 - may our cows be happy, our production high, and our milk glasses forever full! Let's keep an eye on this incredible journey and support our local dairy farmers. Who knows, we might just overtake Idaho soon!

Click the link below to read more!https://texasdairymatters.tamu.edu/files/2024/04/Texas-Dairy-Industry-Closes-Gap-April2024TDM_FINAL.pdf

🌾🐮

The mac and cheese cookoff benefiting Big Brothers Big Sisters of Erath County is happening at 3 p.m. on Saturday, April 20, at the Bosque River TapHouse, and amateur and professional cooks are invited to enter.The event will take place on the patio (as long as the weather cooperates) and attendees will get a 2-ounce sample of each entry.

We are inviting people to bring their best recipes for jalapeno mac and cheese, brisket mac and cheese and lobster mac and cheese. We even want your grandma’s Thanksgiving recipe.

The cost to enter a cookoff team is $100 and the winner will receive a cash prize.

Tickets will be sold for $25 each and are expected to go on sale soon. (Follow Big Brothers Big Sisters Erath County on Facebook for more on that.)
If you have any questions, email Sarah at [email protected].

🌱🐄 Attention Dairy Producers of Erath, Comanche, and Hamilton Counties! 🌞🌾

The Dairy Outreach Program Area (DOPA) program will be held on April 2nd from 10:00am to 4:00pm!

We're excited to announce this year's DOPA event which will provide insightful discussions on innovative practices and regulations impacting our dairy community.

Date: April 2nd
Time: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM (Registration starts at 9:30 AM)
Location: TAMU AgriLife Extension Center, 1229 N. US Hwy 281, Stephenville, TX 76401

What's on the Agenda?

Solar Panels on Central Texas Dairies: Explore the feasibility and economics. Is solar power the next step for your dairy?
Flies and Calf Hutches: Tackle common pests with effective strategies.
Manure to Compost: Turn waste into wealth by improving your composting practices.
W**d Control Residuals: Learn about the latest in w**d control and how it affects your dairy.
Digesters: Discover the benefits of anaerobic digestion and how it can work for you.
Mortality Management: Discuss essential practices for handling mortality.
Climate Smart Program Enrollment: Get the latest on how to enroll and benefit from climate-smart practices.
Texas Commission of Environmental Quality Regulations Update: Stay informed on the latest regulations and how they impact your operation.

Earn 5 DOPA Credits by attending this comprehensive program. Whether you're looking to improve your environmental impact, manage pests more effectively, or simply to stay up-to-date on manure and nutrient management topics, then this event is for you.

Don't miss out on this opportunity to enhance your operation and connect with fellow dairy producers.

See you there!

🌿 For more information, please contact your local County Extension Agent, and please RSVP by calling (325) 356-2539.

🐄 Exciting Innovations in Dairy Farm Management: Non-Antibiotic Approaches to Battling Mastitis! 🌿https://texasdairymatters.tamu.edu/files/2024/02/Non-antibiotic-management-of-mastitis-in-dairy-cattle_March-2024.pdf

Hello, fellow dairy enthusiasts and friends! Today, we are thrilled to share some groundbreaking research from the team at the Department of Animal Sciences, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service, part of The Texas A&M University System. Led by the diligent efforts of Graduate Research Assistants Bhuwan Shrestha, Rajesh Neupane, and the expertise of Assistant Professor Sushil Paudyal, Ph.D., they're pioneering non-antibiotic strategies for managing mastitis in dairy cattle.

Mastitis, the bane of dairy farms worldwide due to its costly impact, is typically treated with antibiotics. However, this method faces challenges such as antibiotic resistance and restrictions in organic farming systems. But fear not, for innovation is on the horizon!

🔊 Acoustic Pulse Technology (APT): This promising technology employs low-incidence shockwaves to promote recovery and reduce inflammation in affected mammary gland tissues. Think of it as a deep-tissue sound wave massage that encourages healing and improves blood flow. Early results are promising, showing increased recovery rates and additional milk yield.

🔦 Cold Laser Therapy: Also known as low-level laser therapy, this approach uses light energy to stimulate cellular processes, speeding up wound healing and reducing inflammation. It's like giving our bovine friends a pain-relieving, healing light show, with studies indicating significant increases in recovery rates.

🌱 Plant Molecule-Based Compounds: The latest in mastitis management, these compounds disrupt the communication between bacteria, preventing the formation of biofilms—a protective shield for bacteria. By targeting the quorum sensing mechanisms of bacteria, these plant-derived compounds offer a novel way to enhance herd health and longevity.

The team at Texas A&M is actively validating these technologies at commercial dairy farms, marking a significant step toward sustainable and efficient dairy farming. While these products are still under research and not yet endorsed, the potential benefits they offer for improving dairy cow welfare and farm productivity are truly exciting.

Let's support and stay tuned for more updates from this innovative research. The future of dairy farming is looking brighter and more sustainable!



(Note: The products mentioned are under research and not official endorsements.)

**UPDATED AVAILABLE ANIMAL SUPPLY POINT LOCATIONS

Gray County Animal Supply Point
Address: Clyde Carruth Pavilion, 301 Bull Barn Drive Pampa, TX 79065
Point of Contact: Marcus Preuninger
Contact:806-669-8033 or 325-728-0477
Hours: 7 AM - 7 PM

Hemphill County Animal Supply Point
Address: Canadian AH&N Ranch Supply, 100 Hackberry St Canadian, TX 79014
Point of Contact: Andy Holloway
Contact: 806-323-9114

Hutchinson County Animal Supply Point
Address: Hutchinson County Airport, 1608 Airport Road Borger, TX 79007
Point of Contact: Hanna Conner
Contact: 806-878-4026 or 806-395-7005

Animal supply points are currently receiving and distributing donated resources to producers impacted by the Panhandle wildfire. These locations will receive and distribute donated resources. Contact the supply points if you are interested in donating or are in need of resources. The TAHC is not involved in the donation or distribution process, but we aim to raise awareness of the supply point locations where resources will be available to producers located in counties affected by wildfires. General questions about donations or relief efforts can be made at 806-354-5800.

NEW at the 2024 HPDC: on Thursday March 7, a 5 hour Training Workshop in English and Spanish, registration open tab our website. Scan the QR code!

🌾Enhance Sorghum Silage Nutritive Value for Your Lactating Cows🐄!
This is the second of a series of articles. In this one, we discuss new KP technologies to increase sorghum grain processing. 🥛 https://texasdairymatters.tamu.edu/files/2024/02/Strategies-to-include-sorghum-silage-in-lactating-cow-rations.-Part-2.pdf

STUDENT POSTER PRESENTATION OPPORTUNITY!!! This new opportunity has been added to the High Plains Dairy Conference which will be held on March 5th and 6th in Amarillo, TX. Students will be given a unique experience to share their research and network with producers, allied industry representatives, and the academic community. If you are interested in presenting a poster, please see the attached flyer or visit the website at http://highplainsdairy.org/ to register. If you have any questions about student poster presentations, please reach out to Dr. Jennifer Spencer at [email protected].

On this segment with Texas Standard radio, Dr. Jennifer Spencer discusses the use of beef genetics in dairy cattle reproductive management.

🧬 Dr. Spencer delved into the evolution and current application of this technique, shedding light on how it has transformed dairy cattle breeding. The conversation was packed with insightful information, illustrating the significant changes brought to the industry by this innovative method.

🐮 It’s exciting to see how this blend of genetics is reshaping the future of dairy cattle breeding.

Beef cow genetics pay off for dairy farmers Crossing beef and dairy breeds helps produce more valuable calves.

Mark your calendars and attend the 2024 High Plains Dairy Conference!

High Plains Dairy Conference Set March 5-6 in Amarillo The High Plains Dairy Conference will be March 5-6 in Amarillo, Texas. The conference will explore alternative revenue streams, the future of exports and much more.

Check out this month's Texas Dairy Matters article! https://texasdairymatters.tamu.edu/files/2023/12/F1-breeding_Jan-2024_final.pdf

This article, written by Allison Hajny, M.S. graduate student at Texas A&M University, and her major professor Dr. Jennifer Spencer, Extension and Research Dairy Specialist her major professor dives deep into the world of crossbreeding dairy cattle. It is a fascinating exploration of how producers blend the best traits of different breeds to enhance milk production, disease resistance, and overall herd health.

🧬 The focus is on the art and science of backcrossing F1 crossbreeds - a strategy that’s gaining momentum in the dairy industry. The article sheds light on the challenges producers face, like maintaining genetic diversity and predicting the traits of offspring. It’s an eye-opener on how meticulous this process is!

🤔 For those considering crossbreeding, this read is a goldmine. It talks about important considerations like breed compatibility, long-term herd goals, and the economic aspects of crossbreeding programs.

👩‍🌾 As a dairy producer, managing genetic variability and improving herd longevity is especially useful. It’s a complex dance of genetics and farm management, but the potential benefits are huge!

🔗 Give it a read and let’s discuss! What’s your take on crossbreeding strategies? Any experiences or tips to share? Drop your thoughts below! 👇

🌾Enhance Sorghum Silage Nutritive Value for Your Lactating Cows🐄!
Dive into our latest article to learn about a strategy to enhance fiber digestibility. 🥛https://texasdairymatters.tamu.edu/files/2023/12/Strategies-to-include-sorghum-silage-in-lactating-cow-rations.-Part-1.pdf

Great article by our Rock Star communication specialist Kay Ledbetter about the 2023 SWDD

Technology advances attract dairy producers from two states to Southwest Dairy Day - AgriLife Today The Southwest Dairy Day drew dairy producers to view cutting-edge technology, including an anaerobic digester and rotary parlor.

We would like to acknowledge all participants, hosts, sponsors, dairy farmers, students and AgriLife Extension personnel who made the 2023 SW Dairy Day another successful event. Please find below an article that summarizes the program.https://texasdairymatters.tamu.edu/files/2023/11/A-Succesful-2023-SW-Dairy-Day.pdf

Please join us on Wednesday 18th, from 8 AM to 3 PM at 1098 Highway 86, Bovina, TX (i.e., 2 miles East of Boina, 9 miles West of the dairy). Tours to Del Rio will start at 9 AM with 2 vans departing every 15 minutes. Look forward to seeing you soon!

🌿 Parking Lot Field Day at Cabela's Fort Worth! 🌿

On October 14th there is a day of conservation education right in the heart of urban Texas! Dive into the world of natural resource conservation, agriculture, and more with Texas A&M AgriLife Extension.

📍 Location: Cabela’s, 12901 Cabela Drive, Fort Worth, TX
⏰ Time: 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM

Event Highlights:
🔍 Hands-on demonstrations by specialists
🐦 Wildlife ID, hog trapping, invasive plant control, birding
🌱 Topics centered around local conservation needs
🌒 Special solar eclipse viewing at noon - Be among the first 500 attendees and snag a free pair of solar eclipse glasses!

Got questions? Reach out to Chase Brooke at [email protected].

This is a FREE event aimed at bringing the wonders of nature and conservation to our community. Let's come together to learn, share, and celebrate the beauty of our environment. See you there! 🍃🌍

🐄 Dairy Heifer Reproductive Management Insights! 🐄 This month's article was written by Allison Hajny, a Master's student in the Department of Animal Science under the guidance of Dr. Jennifer Spencer. This article is part 1 of a series on dairy heifer reproductive management and entitled "Dairy Heifer Reproductive Management. Part 1: Estrus Synchronization Protocols". Here are some key takeaways:

🔹 Heifers are foundational to the future success of dairy operations. Efficient breeding programs are essential to achieve an optimal first calving age of 23 to 24 months.
🔹 Estrus synchronization protocols can enhance genetic progress by reducing the number of services and improving pregnancy rates.
🔹 Implementing synchronization protocols can lead to reduced raising costs, increased longevity of the animal’s life, and enhanced milk production abilities.
🔹 Always consult with your herd veterinarian and/or reproductive manager before implementing any breeding protocol.

For a deeper dive, check out the full article herehttps://texasdairymatters.tamu.edu/files/2023/09/Synchronization-Protocols_Dairy-Heifers_final.pdf

📅Have you already made plans to attend the 2023 SW Dairy Day? We are only 19 days away! The deadline to become a sponsor is next Wednesday, October 4th. More information below: https://lnkd.in/gpPYxw8t

Looking forward to seeing you at the 2023 SWDD. We would like to acknowledge Genex and Nedap for sponsoring dinner on October 17 at Hereford County Club; Texas Beef Council, Hi-pro Feeds, and Southwest Cheese for sponsoring lunch at the SWDD venue; and all sponsors that support this event. Please find more information below.

Southwest Dairy Day set at Del Rio Dairy near Bovina on Oct. 18 - AgriLife Today The Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service’s 2023 Southwest Dairy Day is set for Oct. 18 and will feature the Del Rio Dairy near Bovina.

Attention all women in agriculture! 🌱
Join us on Thursday, October 12th for an insightful session on Risk Management. We're thrilled to have Donna Hughes and Hailey Hall share their expertise on insurance options available to agriculture producers.

📍 Venue: Texas A&M AgriLife Extension and Research Center, Stephenville, Texas.
🍽️ Lunch: Generously provided by StoneX.

📌 For more details, check out the flyer attached below.

📅 Kindly RSVP by October 6th to ensure your spot.
📧 Contact: Dr. Jennifer Spencer at [email protected].

Spread the word and let's empower our community together! 💪🌾

The summer heat hasn't left us yet! Read this article to learn more about the management techniques that can help mitigate the negative impacts of heat stress on reproductive efficiency in dairy cows.https://texasdairymatters.tamu.edu/files/2023/07/Repro-mgt-during-summer_8.2023_FINAL.pdf

Are there any benefits in the prophylactic use of calcium boluses in postpartum cows? In this article, we discuss types of hypocalcemia and the use of calcium boluses in dairy cows after calving.https://texasdairymatters.tamu.edu/files/2023/09/Calcium-bolus-supplementation-to-dairy-cows-after-calving.pdf

There will be a Dairy Animal Handling Certificate (DAHC) training on August 1st, 2023 from 9:30am until 3:00pm at the Southwest Regional Dairy Center, 2929 US-281, Stephenville, TX 76401.

This training will cover, injections, euthanasia, and handling down cows. The training will also be presented in English and Spanish. Reach out if you have any questions and we look forward to seeing you!

We are saddened to say farewell to a friend of the dairy community and a servant of Texas youth and agriculture. We will miss Greg. He would always lift us up with his positive attitude and jokes, in particular during challenges faced on 2019 dairy day. He was key in organizing this event earning the Outstanding County Agriculture Agent Award for his contribution. Our sincerest condolences to his family and friends.

Obituary for Gregory Alvin Gruben at BELL-CYPERT-SEALE FUNERAL HOME Gregory Alvin Gruben Obituary Gregory Alvin Gruben, 57, of Snyder, Texas, passed away on July 6, 2023, surrounded by family and close friends. Greg was born in Sweetwater, Texas, to Wilber Lee and Carol Ann Gruben on October 3, 1965. He grew up in Rotan and graduated from Rotan High

🐄We are happy to announce that the biggest field day that brings the dairy community together in Texas is set for October 18th in Bovina🥛. The 2023 SWDD tours will highlight anaerobic digesters, rotary parlors with automatic pre and post-dipping, and other technologies. For more information about the event and sponsorship opportunities 👇

Southwest Dairy Day set for Oct. 18; sponsorship opportunities available - AgriLife Today Southwest Dairy Day will be Oct. 18 in Bovina. The Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service’s event has sponsorship opportunities available.

As the summer heats up! This month's article discusses the detrimental impacts of heat stress on calves and how to manage calves during times of heat stress. This article was written by Jason White, an Academic Instructor at Oklahoma State University, and Dr. Jennifer Spencer with Texas A&M AgriLife Extension and Research. https://texasdairymatters.tamu.edu/files/2023/05/Heat-Stress-Calves_June-2023_final.pdf