Dairy

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.
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.
Upcoming Events
FAMACHA Workshop at Alfred State College
June 14, 2025 : FAMACHA Workshop at Alfred State College
Alfred, NY
Join Cornell Cooperative Extension for a morning of classroom learning, hands-on FAMACHA and 5 Point Check practice, and a pasture walk at Alfred State College's teaching farm to learn about putting IPM to work on pasture using evasive grazing techniques. An exam will be provided, and students passing the exam will receive program certification, including a FAMACHA Card.
Fecal Egg Count Mobile Workshop at Alfred State College
June 17, 2025 : Fecal Egg Count Mobile Workshop at Alfred State College
Alfred, NY
This mobile workshop will teach you what you need to know to perform fecal egg counts and understand the results of fecal egg count reduction tests at home. While focused on testing sheep and goats, this event is applicable to all ruminants and camelids.
Youth Tractor & Machinery Certification Program
June 19, 2025
June 26 - June 27, 2025
Cuba, NY
The 4-H and FFA Tractor & Machinery Certification Program will be offered at the Cuba-Rushford HS (5476 Rt. 305, Cuba, NY 14727) on June 19th, 26th and 27th from 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM.Youth must attend all 3 sessions plus pass written and driving test to receive certification.
Announcements
No announcements at this time.