Dairy

DairyDairy is the leading agricultural industry in New York State, and the state ranks third in the country for milk production. Our five counties in southwestern New York form an especially vibrant dairy region, with over 680 dairy farms of many different sizes and production systems. 

The SWNY Dairy, Livestock, and Field Crops Program assists dairy farmers by providing business management, forage production, and dairy management support. Our Dairy Management Specialist offers assistance with calf and heifer management, reproductive management, dairy records analysis, herd health, nutrition, and facilities. 





Meet John, our Team's Summer Field Technician

Last Modified: June 25, 2025
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

Last Modified: June 18, 2025
2025 American Dairy Science Association Poster Presentation

Check out the poster that I will be presenting at the 2025 ADSA conference. 


Toe-tally Essential: Regular Hoof Trimming for your Dairy Cows

Katie Callero, Dairy Management Specialist
Southwest New York Dairy, Livestock and Field Crops Program

Last Modified: June 9, 2025
Toe-tally Essential: Regular Hoof Trimming for your Dairy Cows

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

Last Modified: May 7, 2025
Out with the Mold, in with the Moo: Spring Cleaning Time

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

Last Modified: May 5, 2025
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

Last Modified: April 14, 2025
Takeaways from the Statewide Transition Heifer Calf 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

Last Modified: April 1, 2025
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

Last Modified: March 4, 2025
Please Check H.E.R. Out: Ensuring a Compassionate End of Life

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

Last Modified: March 4, 2025

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

Last Modified: February 10, 2025
Reflections From The 2025 Operations Managers Conference

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

Last Modified: January 13, 2025
Are you Winning with Weaning?

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

Last Modified: January 6, 2025
Frost Bite Mitigation and Management in Ruminants

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.






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Field Crops

Field Crops

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Dairy

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Upcoming Events

WNY Pastureland Conversion & Soil Health Field Day

July 16, 2025
Middleport, NY

Join American Farmland Trust for the Western New York Soil Health Field Day on July 16, 2025, at Zeliff Farm in Middleport, NY, from 9:00 AM-3:15 PM. Learn about pasture conversion, soil health benchmarking, biochar in grazing systems, and best grazing practices. Plus, enjoy hands-on demos with the NY Soil Health Trailer, drones, and cover crops!  Check out the attached agenda for more information about the field day and REGISTER HERE. Zeliff Farms is a regenerative beef operation who has recently partnered with AFT on outreach and education to farmers including learning circles and evaluating biochar effects on soil health.

IPM Strategies to Protect Corn and Soybean Seed in NY

Event Offers DEC Credits

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.

Announcements

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