Dairy

Takeaways from the Statewide Transition Heifer Calf Program
Katie Callero, Dairy Management Specialist
Southwest New York Dairy, Livestock and Field Crops Program

During the month of March, I collaborated with Pro-Dairy and the other regional dairy management specialists to host a statewide transition heifer calf program. I wanted to share some of my top takeaways from our workshop for those who were unable to attend.
USDA Expediting Direct Economic Assistance to Agricultural Producers

U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins announced that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is issuing up to $10 billion directly to agricultural producers through the Emergency Commodity Assistance Program (ECAP) for the 2024 crop year. Eligible producers must report 2024 crop year planted and prevented planted acres to FSA on an FSA-578, Report of Acreage form. Contact your local FSA office for more information.
Please Check H.E.R. Out: Ensuring a Compassionate End of Life
Katie Callero, Dairy Management Specialist
Southwest New York Dairy, Livestock and Field Crops Program

Unfortunately, euthanasia is a decision every farmer has to make. This article stresses the need for clear euthanasia protocols, proper staff training, and emotional support for farmers making these difficult decisions.
Winter and wet weather manure spreading reminders
NYS Department of Environmental Conservation is reminding farmers to be mindful of conditions that are high risk for runoff.
Reflections From The 2025 Operations Managers Conference
Katie Callero, Dairy Management Specialist
Southwest New York Dairy, Livestock and Field Crops Program

The 2025 Operations Managers conference entitled "Empowering Managers: Embracing Diversity, Consistency, and Attitude for Success" was hosted by Cornell PRO-DAIRY and Northeast Dairy Producers Association at the end of January. Check out some of my favorite takeaways from the conference.
Are you Winning with Weaning?
Katie Callero, Dairy Management Specialist
Southwest New York Dairy, Livestock and Field Crops Program

Weaning can be a stressful time not just for the calf but also for the farmers. Check out this brief article to find out the best weaning management practices to ensure a winning transition for you and your calves.
Frost Bite Mitigation and Management in Ruminants
Amy Barkley, Livestock Specialist
Southwest New York Dairy, Livestock and Field Crops Program

For those who are calving, lambing, and kidding this time of year, frost bite on the youngsters is a real concern. The good news is that while we can't control Mother Nature, we can manage around the worst weather to help reduce the risk of frostbite and assist animals that are affected.
Colostrum Construction: Building a Firm Foundation
Katie Callero, Dairy Management Specialist
Southwest New York Dairy, Livestock and Field Crops Program

Good colostrum management builds a strong foundation for cow health and production. Building this strong foundation requires four key steps: create a detailed plan, choose quality materials, build the foundation, evaluate and adjust. There are also common errors in colostrum management that can create cracks in your foundation. Check out this article to make sure you have a firm foundation.
Ticks Don't Die Over Winter? Well, that "Ticks" me Off!
Amy Barkley, Livestock Specialist
Southwest New York Dairy, Livestock and Field Crops Program

Ticks dying during a harsh winter is a widely held belief, but observations and research indicate that they can survive extended periods of cold and snow. Instead, the winter conditions just slow the spread of populations to new areas and put a damper on the expansion of existing populations.
Manure-Handling Emergency Action Plans

Every farm, regardless of size, that handles animal waste must be prepared to manage a manure-handling emergency. While prevention is the best strategy to reduce the risk of this type of emergency, not all manure spills can be prevented; therefore, a written emergency action plan should be developed for every farm. This article highlights the components in an emergency action plan and their importance.
State Opens up $4.25M in Grant Funding for Beginning and Disadvantaged Farmers
Amy Barkley, Livestock Specialist
Southwest New York Dairy, Livestock and Field Crops Program

Two competitive state grants are available to fund start-up, improvement, or expansion of farm operations; support for marketing, training, construction, and more! Applications open October 25th and December 30th, closing January 24th, 2025 and December 30, 2024, respectively.
Moving Cattle Over State Lines or to Show? Official RFID Tagging is Required

Starting November 5, 2024, RFID "840" tags will be required for cattle that need official identification. There is no change to the cattle classes that require official ID, just a change to the tag requirements.
Upcoming Events
Cover Crop & Soil Health Field Day
April 24, 2025
Freeville, NY
Join us for a field day featuring cutting edge cover crop and soil health research and resources.
How Harvest NY Can Support Your Business (For Value-Added Producers, Distributors and Manufacturers)
May 5, 2025
Join us for two targeted online trainings designed to help producers, distributors, manufacturers, and growers tap into the school food market and expand their reach. Whether you're just starting or already selling to schools, the Harvest NY Team will guide you through the necessary steps to grow your presence in the school food market. Each training will be tailored to the specific needs of the audience, but anyone is welcome to attend either session based on interests and business goals!
How Harvest NY Can Support Your Business (For Growers, Producers and Farmers)
May 7, 2025
Join us for two targeted online trainings designed to help producers, distributors, manufacturers, and growers tap into the school food market and expand their reach. Whether you're just starting or already selling to schools, the Harvest NY Team will guide you through the necessary steps to grow your presence in the school food market. Each training will be tailored to the specific needs of the audience, but anyone is welcome to attend either session based on interests and business goals!
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