How will Holstein USA’s new policy affect your top-performing cows? Check to see whether your herd passes the new 95-point criterion now.
A fantastic announcement is heading your way from the Holstein Association USA. Beginning August 1, 2024, a substantial change to the Herd Classification Policy will affect how a cow may attain the highly sought-after Final Score of 95 points. This policy adjustment is intended to reflect current developments in Holstein cows’ reproductive efficiency while rewarding farmers for their efforts and breeding techniques.
So, what does the new policy entail? Here are the main points:
- The threshold for a cow to obtain a Final Score of 95 points has been changed from three to four normal calvings (full-term pregnancies).
- The minimum age for a cow to get this score has been abolished.
- This modification only affects scores of 95 points. The requirements for scores of 96 and 97 remain unchanged.
This change demonstrates the association’s dedication to honoring Holstein cows’ superior reproductive performance, regardless of age. Dairy breeders, prepare to change your expectations and maybe even your breeding plans to meet this new standard!
