March 28, 2024

Dairy Days to feature profitable practices

Event will focus on dairy herd management strategies

AMES – Iowa dairy producers will have the opportunity to learn about emerging dairy industry issues during the 2020 Dairy Days events hosted by Iowa State University Extension and Outreach. The program is scheduled at five eastern Iowa locations between Jan. 20 and Feb. 6.

“Producers have seen low milk prices in the last few years, causing added farm stress. Our goal is to help producers make sound herd management decisions that are backed by current and relevant information,” said Jennifer Bentley, dairy specialist with ISU Extension and Outreach. “We host these workshops for farmers to network, share ideas, and take back management tips to help improve profit margins.”

Topics will include ventilation options for freestall barns, dealing with farm stress, dairy market outlook, stress and metabolic responses on dairy cows, and group calf housing and its effects on calf behavior.

“This daylong program offers producers an opportunity to hear up-to-date information. They can also talk with our speakers for answers to their specific situations,” Bentley said.

Dairy Days dates and locations

Jan. 20 – Windy Tree Café, 101 East Main St., Riceville. Jan. 21 – Iowa’s Dairy Center, 1527 Highway 150 South, Calmar. Jan. 23 – Civic Center, 200 1st St. NE, Waverly. Feb. 4 – Chamber of Commerce, 514 B. Avenue, Kalona. Feb. 6 – Neumann’s Bar and Grill, 927 Main St., Holy Cross.

Registration starts at 9:30 a.m. and the program will conclude by 2:30 p.m. A $15 registration fee covers the noon meal and costs. Pre-registration is requested by the Friday before each event, to reserve a meal. Online registration is available. Vouchers for the event may be available at a local agri-service providers or veterinarian’s office.

For more information, contact the ISU Extension and Outreach county office, or Bentley at 563-382-2949. Larry Tranel, dairy specialist with ISU Extension and Outreach, can be reached at 563-583-6496.