Dairy

Cornell's Animal Health Diagnostic Lab - A Resource for NYS Livestock Farmers
Amy Barkley, Livestock Specialist
Southwest New York Dairy, Livestock and Field Crops Program

As part of its mission, Cornell's Animal Health Diagnostic Center (AHDC) offers valuable diagnostic services to New York State livestock producers. They can evaluate freshly dead animals, blood, and tissue samples to determine the cause of illness or death in your herd or flock.
Reflections from the 2025 American Dairy Science Association Conference
Katie Callero, Dairy Management Specialist
Southwest New York Dairy, Livestock and Field Crops Program

Take a moment to read my reflections from the 2025 ADSA conference, where I explored research on calf health, robotic milking, and farmer-led education—and how these ideas and more could benefit dairy farms in Southwest NY.
Meet John, our Team's Summer Field Technician

We're excited to have John on our team for this summer as we work around the region! If you see him out and about, don't hesitate to say hello!
2025 American Dairy Science Association Poster Presentation
Katie Callero, Dairy Management Specialist
Southwest New York Dairy, Livestock and Field Crops Program

Toe-tally Essential: Regular Hoof Trimming for your Dairy Cows
Katie Callero, Dairy Management Specialist
Southwest New York Dairy, Livestock and Field Crops Program

Ever think about how uncomfortable a blister can make walking? Now imagine standing for 14 hours a day with sore feet—this is the daily reality for cows with poor hoof care. Learn why regular hoof trimming isn't just essential for cow comfort and health, but also a smart investment in your farm's productivity.
Out with the Mold, in with the Moo: Spring Cleaning Time
Katie Callero, Dairy Management Specialist
Southwest New York Dairy, Livestock and Field Crops Program

Spring into action on your dairy farm! As nature comes back to life, so does bacteria—and that means a rise in mastitis cases. This article highlights essential spring cleaning tips and equipment checks to protect milk quality, boost cow health, and make sure your milking routine is as fresh as the season.
Ag Safety and Health Springtime Preparations

Spring is one of the busiest times of the year on a farm. Even if things are busy, keep health and safety to the forefront of what you do.
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.
Upcoming Events
IPM Strategies to Protect Corn and Soybean Seed in NY

July 30, 2025
Hamburg , NY
SWNYDLFC and Cornell IPM are hosting a grower meeting to discuss integrated pest management strategies for protecting corn and soybean seed in New York.
FAMACHA Training for Sheep and Goat producers in Woodhull NY
August 13, 2025 : FAMACHA Training in Woodhull
Woodhull, NY
Join us for a discussion and hands-on training for internal parasite integrated pest management in sheep and goats. Certification is available to all students participating in the workshop.
Cover Crop & Soil Health Field Day
August 13, 2025
Andover, NY
Please join us for a morning of hands-on learning with expert insights from local farmers, industry representatives, and extension. We will have some demonstration plots in action along with discussion about how cover crops influence soils and demonstration showing impacts on farm resiliency.
Announcements
No announcements at this time.