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Archive for rumen health

Enhancing Dairy Cow Health: The Power of Saccharomyces Cerevisiae Fermentation Products During Gut Challenges

Sunday, June 30th, 2024

Explore the transformative impact of Saccharomyces cerevisiae fermentation products on dairy cow health during gut barrier challenges. Interested in enhancing your herd’s well-being? Keep reading to uncover the advantages.

Imagine a solution that could significantly bolster the health and productivity of your dairy herd, especially during stressful periods. Saccharomyces cerevisiae fermentation products (SCFP) are emerging as a highly effective tool that not only enhances gut health but also improves the overall well-being of your lactating cows. This potent supplement can navigate the complexities of cow physiology to deliver remarkable benefits, particularly during gut barrier challenges. In this article, we will delve into the impact of SCFP on the ruminal microbiota and metabolome, presenting a comprehensive analysis of its multifaceted advantages.

Unleashing the Power of Yeast: Why Saccharomyces Cerevisiae Fermentation Products are Transforming Dairy Farming 

Saccharomyces cerevisiae fermentation products (SCFP) are yeast-based supplements that enhance dairy cow health and performance through a range of metabolites and bioactive compounds. Used extensively in dairy farming, these products are known for their numerous benefits. 

SCFP improve digestive efficiency by stabilizing the ruminal environment, which optimizes feed breakdown and fermentation. This leads to better nutrient absorption and overall health. 

Additionally, SCFP strengthen immune function by enhancing gut integrity and reducing gut-related ailments. This is particularly valuable during stressful periods like calving or environmental changes. 

Incorporating Saccharomyces cerevisiae fermentation products in dairy diets is a scientifically proven method to boost digestion, nutrient uptake, and immune resilience, ultimately enhancing the health and productivity of dairy herds.

The Comprehensive Study on Gut Microbiota and Metabolomics Amid Stress

The study on lactating Holstein cows evaluated the impacts of Saccharomyces cerevisiae fermentation products (SCFP) during a gut barrier challenge. Two groups of multiparous cows were involved—one as a control (CON) and another receiving 19 grams per day of SCFP (SCFP group). Over nine weeks, followed by a five-day feed restriction (FR) where cows were fed just 40% of their usual intake, the researchers explored the effects on ruminal microbiota and metabolomic profiles under stress.

Researchers used cutting-edge techniques to understand SCFP’s effects on the cows. They extracted DNA from ruminal fluid samples and performed PacBio full-length 16S rRNA gene sequencing for a detailed microbial profile. Real-time PCR then quantified 12 key ruminal bacterial species to zero in on specific microbial populations. 

Metabolomic analysis involved examining up to 189 metabolites in the ruminal fluid via gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC/MS). High-quality sequences were analyzed using advanced software like TADA, MicrobiomeAnalyst, PICRUSt2, and STAMP to explore microbial diversity and metabolic functions. MetaboAnalyst 5.0 helped interpret the data, revealing complex interactions between microbiota and metabolic pathways during stress.

A Deep Dive into Microbial Diversity and Enhanced Metabolic Profiles with SCFP Supplementation

The study revealed significant insights into the influence of Saccharomyces cerevisiae fermentation products (SCFP) during gut barrier challenges in lactating Holstein cows. Notably, the SCFP group exhibited an increase in microbial diversity within the ruminal fluid, indicated by higher α-diversity Chao 1 and Shannon indices. This suggests a more varied and resilient microbial ecosystem, crucial during stress. Additionally, specific bacterial genera like CPla_4_termite_group, Candidatus Saccharimonas, Oribacterium, and Pirellula were more abundant in cows given SCFP. These bacteria are linked to beneficial processes, enhancing rumen health. Higher levels of key metabolites such as ethanolamine, glyoxylic acid, serine, and threonine were also found, highlighting positive metabolic shifts induced by SCFP.

Revealing the Metabolic Influence: SCFP’s Role in Enhancing Key Biological Processes

In our metabolite analysis, we noted significant increases in the SCFP group compared to the control. Specifically, ethanolamine, glyoxylic acid, serine, threonine, cytosine, and stearic acid levels rose. These metabolites are crucial for the health and productivity of dairy cows. 

SCFP also influenced the pentose phosphate and photorespiration pathways. The pentose phosphate pathway enhances fatty acid and nucleotide synthesis, indicating improved anabolic processes in the SCFP group. 

The photorespiration pathway, more common in plants, seems to help cows adapt to feed restriction stress, promoting metabolic balance and energy production under suboptimal conditions. 

In addition, we found a higher abundance of Fretibacterium and Succinivibrio, which correlated positively with multiple metabolites like galactose, fructose, and alanine. This increase indicates enhanced microbial activity and metabolic function. 

Overall, feeding SCFP during feed restriction shifted the ruminal microbiota composition and function, supporting pathways that boost resilience and productivity under stress. This highlights SCFP’s potential as a dietary intervention to enhance dairy cow health and performance.

Boosting Resilience and Productivity: Practical Implications for Dairy Farmers 

As dairy farmers, maintaining the health and productivity of your cows, especially during stress periods like feed restriction, is crucial. Our study shows that adding Saccharomyces cerevisiae fermentation products (SCFP) to your cows’ diets can offer significant benefits.  

Incorporating SCFP helps your cows maintain a healthier gut barrier, improving digestive health during stressful times when feed intake is restricted. This enhancement in ruminal microbiota diversity and metabolic profiles supports better nutrient absorption and overall gut function.  

For your herd, this means less disruption to milk production and cow health during stress periods. Beneficial metabolites like ethanolamine, serine, and stearic acid support gut health and essential physiological functions.  

Introducing SCFP into your cows’ diet can boost resilience to stress by enhancing metabolic pathways like the pentose phosphate pathway and photorespiration, which improve energy production and reduce oxidative stress.  

Start gradually with the recommended SCFP dosage, monitor improvements in health and production, and consult a nutritionist if needed. By strategically using SCFP, you can help your cows thrive even under challenging conditions.

The Bottom Line

Supplementing Saccharomyces cerevisiae fermentation products (SCFP) during gut barrier challenges offers significant benefits to dairy cows. SCFP enhances ruminal microbiota diversity, supports key metabolic pathways, and boosts cows’ resilience and productivity under stress.  

This study shows that SCFP supplementation increases important metabolic processes like the pentose phosphate pathway and photorespiration. It also fosters a more diverse microbial environment, leading to better gut health and overall physiological robustness.  

For dairy farmers, incorporating SCFP into the feed regimen can dramatically improve herd health and productivity. SCFP helps mitigate stress effects, promoting a healthy gut microbiome, which translates to better milk production and farm performance.  

Consider the solid evidence for SCFP supplementation. It’s a scientifically proven method to enhance cow health and boost farm sustainability and profitability. Investing in SCFP might be the step that sets your dairy operation apart.  

The science behind SCFP is complex, but its benefits are clear. Healthier cows lead to a healthier farm. Embracing SCFP can have lasting positive impacts on herd well-being and productivity. As we strive to improve dairy farming practices, innovative feed solutions like SCFP are essential. 

Key Takeaways:

  • Saccharomyces cerevisiae fermentation products (SCFP) improve the health of dairy cows by modulating the gut microbiota, especially during stress periods such as feed restriction.
  • Feeding SCFP to lactating Holstein cows resulted in greater microbial diversity and distinct metabolite profiles in the rumen.
  • Enhanced concentrations of beneficial metabolites like ethanolamine, serine, and stearic acid were observed in cows supplemented with SCFP.
  • Key metabolic pathways, including the pentose phosphate pathway and photorespiration pathway, were upregulated by SCFP, suggesting improved metabolic efficiency.
  • SCFP supplementation led to the predominance of beneficial bacteria like Fretibacterium and Succinivibrio, which are associated with various positive biological processes.
  • The study highlights significant shifts from the tricarboxylic acid cycle to the glyoxylate cycle in cows fed SCFP, enhancing nitrogenous base production.
  • Dairy farmers can leverage SCFP to boost cow resilience and productivity by supporting better gut health and metabolic functions.

Summary:

Saccharomyces cerevisiae fermentation products (SCFP) are a yeast-based supplement that can significantly improve dairy herd health and productivity during stressful periods. SCFP stabilizes the ruminal environment, optimizes feed breakdown and fermentation, and enhances digestive efficiency, nutrient absorption, and overall health. It strengthens immune function by enhancing gut integrity and reducing gut-related ailments, especially during stressful periods like calving or environmental changes. A study on lactating Holstein cows showed that SCFP increased microbial diversity within the ruminal fluid, promoting a more diverse and resilient microbial ecosystem. Specific bacterial genera like CPla_4_termite_group, Candidatus Saccharimonas, Oribacterium, and Pirellula were more abundant in cows given SCFP, which are linked to beneficial processes. SCFP also influenced pentose phosphate and photorespiration pathways, promoting metabolic balance and energy production under suboptimal conditions. In conclusion, SCFP during feed restriction shifts the ruminal microbiota composition and function, supporting pathways that boost resilience and productivity under stress.

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Categories : Nutrition
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Silage Inoculants: Do They Really Boost Farm Profits and ROI? Discover Now!

Wednesday, June 19th, 2024

Uncover the true potential of silage inoculants in amplifying farm profitability. Explore the benefits of inoculants, which improve nutrient retention, mitigate spoilage, and enhance livestock performance.

Every farm choice counts for dairy producers trying to increase herd output and health. One important choice is whether to make silage inoculum investments. These additions may improve silage quality, affecting cattle performance and farm profitability. Are they, however, really a good return on investment? This paper investigates silage inoculant advantages and financial worth, thus guiding farmers in their decisions. We will discuss their effects on nutrient preservation and dry matter (DM) retention and whether these advantages help dairy operators financially.

The Critical Role of Silage Inoculants in Forage Quality and Farm Profitability 

Introduced during ensiling, silage inoculants add beneficial bacteria to increase forage quality, lower dry matter (DM) losses, and preserve essential nutrients. These inoculants outcompete harmful bacteria so that fermentation runs effectively. Important silage inoculant bacteria include:

  • Lactobacillus plantarum: Lowers pH rapidly, creating an acidic environment that inhibits spoilage organisms.
  • Pediococcus pentosaceus: Produces high amounts of lactic acid, quickly stabilizing forages and deterring microbes.
  • Enterococcus faecium: Facilitates initial acidification, contributing to silage stability and quality.

Silage inoculants greatly lower DM losses by encouraging fast pH lowering and, therefore, keeping more of the crop’s original DM. They also improve nutrient retention by designing conditions that stop spoilage organisms from breaking down vital components like proteins and carbohydrates, preserving the nutritional integrity of forage.

Better feed intake and cattle performance follow from silage with greater nutrient densities and increased palatability produced by quicker and more efficient fermenting facilitated by inoculants. This lowers the need for additional feeds, thereby improving farm profitability.

By maximizing silage inoculant usage, nutrient retention is improved, silage quality is raised, and DM losses are minimized—a significant return on investment given animal performance and farm output.

Understanding the Economic Benefits of Silage Inoculants: A Path to Reducing Dry Matter (DM) Losses and Enhancing Farm Profitability 

ParameterWithout InoculantWith Inoculant
Dry Matter (DM) Loss (%)15%8%
Nutrient Retention (Crude Protein %)12%14%
Aerobic Stability (Days)37
Cost Savings (per ton of silage)$0$40

First, silage inoculants’ effect on lowering dry matter (DM) losses helps one to understand their financial advantages. While the cost of silage inoculants is typically offset by significant savings, farmers may drastically reduce the expenses on additional feeds by saving DM. Studies reveal possible savings of $15 to $50 per ton of silage with each 1% decrease in DM loss. This immediately increases agricultural profitability.

Apart from lowering feed expenses, inoculants enhance nutrient retention, conserving important carbohydrates and proteins. Up to 10% more nutrients retained by inoculated silage will improve cattle performance. Dairy producers have recorded extra litters of milk per cow daily, therefore demonstrating the return on investment from these chemicals.

By lowering spoiling rates, silage inoculants further prolong silage usage and help to minimize waste. Less frequent replacements resulting from this help the farmer to safeguard his investment. Strong financial justification for utilizing inoculants comes from case studies showing an ROI as high as 8-to-1.

Consider the case of dairy producers who have experienced a 3-5% increase in animal performance by using inoculants. This increase typically translates to a 61% return on investment. Such results underscore the strategic and financial worth of silage inoculants, providing dairy producers with a clear path to improving their agricultural profitability.

The Impact of Silage Inoculants on Animal Health and Productivity 

Ensuring high-quality silage through the use of inoculants is crucial for maintaining animal health and productivity. These supplements guarantee the retention of essential proteins and sugars, enhancing the nutritional value of the forage. The improved quality of proteins provides necessary amino acids for muscle growth and development, while increased sugar content provides readily available energy for metabolic activities, ensuring the best bodily condition for the cattle.

Premium silage benefits the rumen, which is essential for ruminants. Effective silage fermentation helps control harmful bacteria, lowering the risk of acidosis and other digestive problems. A better rumen helps digest fibers, optimizes nutrient use, and lowers nutritional issues.

Furthermore, increasing feed consumption is premium silage. More appealing and nutritious forage stimulates more intake, hence improving body condition and development. In dairy systems, this immediately increases milk output. Improved silage consumption can lead to higher milk components—especially butterfat, which fetches better market prices and increases farm profitability.

Silage inoculants are a calculated investment rather than just a cost. By maintaining silage quality and supporting animal health, farmers can clearly increase production and profitability throughout cattle systems. Silage inoculants are a calculated investment rather than just a cost. By maintaining silage quality and supporting animal health, farmers can clearly increase production and profitability throughout cattle systems.  

Balancing the Benefits and Risks of Silage Inoculants

Though silage inoculants provide many advantages, farmers should consider the possible hazards and restrictions they entail.

Forage type, moisture content, and storage conditions affect how well inoculants work. Exact application and ideal circumstances are absolutely necessary for desired results. Inappropriate use or inadequate conditions might cause poor fermentation and financial losses.

For smaller businesses, inoculants may be a financial burden, even if long-term benefits usually outweigh their initial cost. Farmers have to weigh possible feed quality and animal health savings against these initial expenses.

Moreover, inoculants mainly increase lactic acid bacteria, which cannot sufficiently fight all rotting organisms or fermenting problems. Maximum efficacy depends on a thorough approach to silage management involving appropriate harvesting, packing, and covering methods.

Farmers should use silage inoculants as part of an integrated silage management plan, even though they may improve fodder quality and farm profitability. Careful application, along with consideration of storage and harvesting techniques, will maximize the value of this investment.

The Bottom Line

Silage inoculants significantly improve silage quality by improving fermentation and nutrient retention and lowering dry matter (DM) losses. These compounds directly improve cattle husbandry methods, influencing animal performance and condition. They assist in maintaining important proteins and sugars inside the silage, lowering the need for expensive additional feeds and preventing unwelcome microbial development, which affects cattle output and milk supply.

Silage inoculants provide a reasonably priced solution with a proven return on investment, demonstrated by a notable 3 to 5 percent increase in animal performance and an impressive 8-to-one return. In addition to these immediate benefits, the use of silage inoculants can also lead to several specific long-term benefits. Such benefits include: 

  • Enhanced Forage Preservation: Inoculants guide the fermentation process towards lactic acid production, ensuring superior preservation of forage.
  • Reduced Risk of Spoilage: By inhibiting the growth of detrimental microorganisms, they help maintain the quality of silage through extended storage periods.
  • Optimal Nutrient Retention: Quality silage inoculants contribute to better protein and sugar retention, which are critical for animal health and productivity.
  • Insurance Against Sub-optimal Conditions: They act as an insurance policy for when harvesting, chopping, filling, packing, and covering practices fall short of ideal, safeguarding forage quality under less-than-perfect conditions.
  • Improved Animal Performance: Effective inoculants can lead to a 3 to 5 percent improvement in animal performance, with higher dry matter intake and better milk production efficiency.

 If you are serious about enhancing the quality of your forage and boosting your farm’s profitability, it’s time to take a proactive step.  Consult with Experts: Reach out to a nutritionist today for personalized advice on selecting the most effective silage inoculant for your specific needs. 

Key Takeaways:

  • Silage inoculants, such as those from Lallemand Animal Nutrition, enhance forage quality by preserving dry matter (DM) and essential nutrients.
  • Reduced DM losses lead to significant cost savings on supplementary feeds, impacting overall farm profitability positively.
  • High-quality silage derived from inoculants contributes to better animal health and productivity, including increased milk components and fiber digestion.
  • MAGNIVA inoculants ensure faster, more efficient fermentation and longer silage stability, reducing spoilage and replacement costs.
  • The effective use of silage inoculants can result in improved animal performance by 3 to 5 percent, offering a substantial return on investment.
  • Inoculants provide a safeguard against sub-optimal conditions during silage production, ensuring consistent forage quality.

Summary: 

This article explores the role of silage inoculants in improving forage quality, reducing dry matter (DM) losses, and preserving essential nutrients. The inoculants, introduced during ensiling, introduce beneficial bacteria like Lactobacillus plantarum, Pediococcus pentosaceus, and Enterococcus faecium, which significantly lower DM losses by promoting fast pH lowering and preventing spoilage organisms from breaking down essential components like proteins and carbohydrates. This leads to better feed intake and cattle performance, leading to lower feed needs and improved farm profitability. Maximizing silage inoculant usage improves nutrient retention, silage quality, and minimizes DM losses, providing a significant return on investment. The economic benefits of silage inoculants include reducing DM losses, increasing agricultural profitability, and enhancing nutrient retention. Additionally, premium silage benefits the rumen by controlling harmful bacteria and lowering the risk of acidosis and digestive problems. Farmers should use silage inoculants as part of an integrated silage management plan.

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From Calf Starter to TMR: The Key to Early Heifer Development

Wednesday, June 12th, 2024

Discover optimal heifer growth strategies with TMR diets. How can early nutrition impact your dairy herd’s success? Learn expert tips for healthier, productive cows.

Optimal growth in heifers is essential for dairy success. Ensuring young heifers develop well during their early months sets the stage for productive and healthy future cows. This early growth phase is crucial as it directly impacts milk production and long-term health. This article explores the benefits of feeding young heifers a high-cow Total Mixed Ration (TMR) diet, a method endorsed by Tom Tlyutki from Ag Modeling and Training Systems. 

Tlyutki emphasizes that young heifers should be fed similarly to high-lactating cows to meet their nutritional needs and achieve optimal growth. This approach involves: 

  • Transitioning from calf starter to TMR by top-dressing a fixed amount of starter
  • Formulating a diet that mimics a high-group ration, even without a lactating herd

“Dairy heifers under 6 months of age have the same nutritional needs as a cow giving 90 pounds of milk,” says Tlyutki. “Feeding them a high-cow TMR diet ensures they grow properly and are well-prepared for future lactation.”

Nourishing Young Heifers: The Foundation of Future Milk Producers

Ensuring proper nutrition for dairy heifers under 6 months of age is essential. These young animals have nutritional needs comparable to a mature cow producing 90 pounds of milk daily. This means they require high energy, protein, and essential nutrients, much like their high-producing counterparts. 

Transitioning from calf starter to a total mixed ration (TMR) is crucial in their development. One effective method is to top-dress a fixed amount of calf starter onto the TMR. This gradual transition helps the young heifers adjust to the new diet seamlessly, maintaining consistent nutrient intake and supporting steady growth.

Simulating a High-Group Ration for Heifer Raisers Without a Lactating Herd 

Feeding heifers without a lactating herd starts with understanding their nutritional needs, similar to those of high-producing cows. The aim is to provide a nutrient-rich diet to promote growth before lactation begins. This can be achieved by mimicking a high-group ration typically fed to top milk producers. 

Begin by gradually transitioning from calf starter to a Total Mixed Ration (TMR) by top-dressing a fixed amount of starter. The TMR should balance roughage and concentrates to support rapid growth, emphasizing bypass starch for efficient nutrient use. 

Including more low-nutrient-dense roughage is essential. It provides necessary fill without causing excess fat, which can lead to metabolic issues. Maintaining lactic acid content below 4% is crucial to avoid acidosis. 

Investing in proper nutrition helps achieve tripled birth weights by 90 days, setting a solid foundation for future high producers. Early growth before pregnancy leads to better health and productivity. 

Simulating a high-group ration requires careful planning and commitment to balanced, high-quality feed. This ensures efficient growth and a seamless transition into lactation, contributing to a more productive dairy herd. 

Key Growth Milestones for Holstein Heifers: Building a Solid Foundation

When managing a big Holstein cow, aim for crucial growth milestones. A Holstein should weigh about 285 pounds at 90 days old and around 1,045 pounds by breeding age. These are essential markers of healthy growth. 

Focus on tripling the birth weight by the 90-day mark. This rapid early growth is vital, as it sets the foundation for the heifer’s future productivity. Meeting these benchmarks prepares the heifer for pregnancy and lactation, contributing to her health and the herd’s efficiency.

Unlocking Heifer Potential: Prioritizing Early Growth for Future Productivity

Early growth is paramount for heifers to unlock their full potential as productive milk cows. Addressing their nutritional needs from day one ensures a strong foundation for growth and future milk production. To achieve high milk yields, like 228 to 247 pounds per day for a 1,900-pound cow, it’s crucial to triple a heifer’s birth weight in the first 90 days. This rapid early growth is critical because once heifers become pregnant, further growth becomes difficult. Focusing on early growth impacts their size, productivity, and overall health in the long term.

Roughage: The Unsung Hero in Heifer Health and Development

Tlyutki recommends giving heifers plenty of low-nutrient-dense roughage like hay or straw. This may seem counterintuitive, but it helps maintain rumen health and prevents excessive weight gain. Roughage provides bulk, promotes satiety, and aids in rumen development. It also prevents overeating of high-nutrient feeds that can lead to metabolic issues. 

Focusing on roughage helps heifers develop a healthy digestive system, which is crucial for processing more complex diets later. This also helps avoid acidosis, a condition triggered by high-starch diets. The goal is steady, sustainable growth without stressing their developing bodies, laying a solid foundation for future milk production.

Quality Over Cost: Tlyutki’s Stance on Calf Starters 

When it comes to cheap calf starters, Tlyutki has strong reservations. He firmly criticizes these starters, which are often laden with excessive amounts of corn. While they might appear economical initially, these corn-heavy formulations can quickly lead to acidosis. Acidosis is a metabolic condition characterized by an excess of acid in the bloodstream, which can severely compromise the health and development of your heifers. 

Avoiding these inexpensive starters is essential for preventing a range of health issues. Heifers fed these corn-centric diets can suffer from reduced feed efficiency, digestive disturbances, and poor growth performance. The key lies in the quality of the feed, not just the price. Investing in higher-quality calf starters with balanced nutritional content ensures that your heifers develop robustly, setting a solid foundation for their future productivity as milk producers.

Balancing Bypass Starch and Lactic Acid: Tlyutki’s Blueprint for Thriving Heifers

Tlyutki’s approach advocates feeding a substantial amount of bypass starch to raise healthy and fat heifers. This specialized type of starch isn’t fermented in the rumen. Instead, it bypasses it, reaching the intestines where it gets absorbed efficiently. This helps to provide a steady energy source that’s less likely to cause digestive issues commonly associated with high-starch diets, such as acidosis. 

Moreover, he recommends maintaining lactic acid levels at 4% or less. High lactic acid in the rumen can lead to acidosis and other metabolic problems, impeding growth and overall health. By controlling lactic acid levels, you can prevent these issues, ensuring that your heifers grow into strong and productive cows. Combining adequate bypass starch with controlled lactic acid levels supports optimal growth by maximizing nutrient absorption and minimizing health risks.

Maximizing Economic Benefits Through Strategic Heifer Growth

Growing heifers “right” offers substantial economic benefits. Prioritizing their early growth cuts rearing costs and frees up resources for other critical areas of your dairy operations. 

Healthier heifers grow faster, increasing rearing capacity and accelerating their contribution to milk production. Investing in their early growth reduces long-term expenses and improves system efficiency. 

This approach ensures your heifer’s health and productivity, strengthening the economic stability of your dairy operation.

The Bottom Line

Optimal heifer growth is crucial for dairy success. Implementing a high-cow TMR diet ensures your young heifers receive the same nutritional care as high-producing cows. Transitioning from calf starter to TMR and emphasizing early growth can significantly enhance their potential. Prioritizing low-nutrient-dense roughage and choosing quality calf starters are vital strategies. Balancing bypass starch and lactic acid levels prevents health issues and promotes thriving heifers. 

Investing in these strategies can yield significant economic benefits, accelerating heifer development and boosting overall farm profitability. Implementing these practices supports optimal growth and sets the stage for more productive and efficient dairy operations. Transition today for a brighter dairy future.

Key Takeaways:

  • Younger heifers have nutritional needs akin to high-lactating cows, necessitating a high-cow TMR diet.
  • Transitioning from calf starter to TMR by top-dressing a fixed amount of starter is recommended.
  • A 1,900-pound Holstein cow requires a weight of 285 pounds at 90 days and 1,045 pounds at breeding for optimal growth.
  • Tripling the heifer’s birth weight by 90 days of age is advised.
  • Early growth is vital for heifers to reach their full productivity potential.
  • Low-nutrient-dense roughage is beneficial for early heifer growth.
  • Avoid cheap calf starters with high corn content to prevent acidosis.
  • Incorporate bypass starch in the diet, aiming for 4% lactic acid or less, for healthier growth.
  • Strategic heifer growth can reduce rearing costs and enhance productivity.

Summary; The article emphasizes the importance of optimal growth in heifers for dairy success, particularly in young cows under 6 months of age. It suggests feeding young heifers a high-cow Total Mixed Ration (TMR) diet, similar to high-lactating cows, to meet their nutritional needs and achieve optimal growth. This involves transitioning from calf starter to TMR by top-dressing a fixed amount of starter, maintaining consistent nutrient intake, and supporting steady growth. Simulating a high-group ration for heifer raisers without a lactating herd requires careful planning and commitment to balanced, high-quality feed. Key growth milestones for Holstein heifers include aiming for milestones like weighing around 285 pounds at 90 days old and around 1,045 pounds by breeding age. Addressing heifer nutritional needs from day one ensures a strong foundation for growth and future milk production. Tlyutki also emphasizes the importance of heifer health and development, particularly in terms of roughage. Strategic growing heifers offers substantial economic benefits, cutting rearing costs and freeing up resources for other critical areas of dairy operations.

Categories : Nutrition
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Maximize Your Dairy Farm’s Profit: Insights from the 2021 Nutrient Requirements Report

Wednesday, May 29th, 2024

Discover how the 2021 Nutrient Requirements of Dairy Cattle can boost your farm’s profitability. Are you feeding your cows optimally for maximum milk yield and quality?

Imagine running a business where nearly 60% of your expenses come from one thing. Dairy farmers face this, with feed costs taking up a large part of their budget. But here’s the empowering part: understanding how feeding practices impact a dairy farm’s economic outcomes is not just essential, it’s a game-changer. By optimizing feed to boost milk quality and yield, and at the same time, managing costs, dairy farmers can significantly improve their farm profitability and sustainability. 

The dairy industry has transformed significantly over the past 20 years due to advancements in genetics, management practices, and nutritional research. Reflecting these changes, the National Academies of Science, Engineering, and Medicine (NASEM) released the eighth edition of the Nutrient Requirements of Dairy Cattle in December 2021. This update, succeeding guidelines from 2001, incorporates the latest scientific insights and innovations to enhance dairy cow health, productivity, and profitability.

Understanding the nutrient requirements of dairy cattle is crucial for optimizing feed efficiency, improving milk production quality, reducing environmental impact, and ultimately ensuring dairy operations’ overall profitability and sustainability.

The Evolution of Dairy Nutrition: Adapting to Genetic Enhancements and Technological Innovations 

YearAverage Milk Yield per Cow (liters/year)Average Butterfat Content (%)Average Protein Content (%)
20017,8003.63.2
20068,4003.73.3
20118,9003.83.3
20169,3003.93.4
20219,7004.03.5

Over the past two decades, the dairy industry has undergone significant transformations thanks to advancements in cow genetics, management practices, research, and productivity. These changes have deepened our understanding of dairy cow nutrition, making it more intricate but also more impactful on farm profitability and cow health. For instance, in the early 2000s, the focus was on increasing milk yield, but now, we’re also considering factors like cow health, environmental impact, and feed efficiency. 

Selective breeding has enhanced traits such as milk yield, disease resistance, and cow longevity. These genetic improvements have increased productivity and made herds more resilient. 

Management practices have evolved with technological innovations, such as precision farming tools, automated milking systems, and real-time health monitoring, which help optimize cow welfare and milk production. 

The research landscape has expanded, generating data translated into practical feeding strategies. This has led to sophisticated models that accurately predict outcomes, reflecting the complexity of dairy cow nutrition. 

Increased productivity necessitates a nuanced understanding of nutritional requirements. Modern cow diets must meet heightened metabolic demands while ensuring rumen health and overall well-being. 

The growing complexity of dairy cow nutrition underscores our need for precise feeding strategies. These strategies, when implemented effectively, can support and enhance the advanced genetic and productive capabilities of today’s dairy cows. They are not just tools, but a source of enlightenment and motivation for dairy farmers and nutritionists.

Navigating the Microbial Frontier: Insights into Rumen Function and Precision Feeding

Amidst the evolving landscape of dairy nutrition, our understanding of rumen microbial function has advanced significantly. Two decades ago, we had a rudimentary grasp of the microbial intricacies within the rumen. Today, our insights have deepened, highlighting the critical symbiosis between the cow and its rumen microbes for optimizing milk production and overall health. This understanding has led to the development of precision feeding strategies that take into account the cow’s specific microbial needs. 

Recent advancements in rumen microbial nutrition have revealed the complexities of microbial populations and their intricate interactions with dietary components. We now recognize the essential role of specific microbial communities in breaking down complex carbohydrates, fermenting fibers, and synthesizing vital volatile fatty acids. This nuanced understanding has shifted feeding practices towards precision feeding strategies, which involve tailoring the diet to the cow’s specific needs, thus optimizing feed utilization and cow health. 

The integration of predictive models has been pivotal. By simulating rumen fermentation processes, we can forecast nutrient outflow with greater accuracy, fine-tuning diets to meet the cow’s needs more effectively. This helps balance nutrition while mitigating issues like acidosis, thus safeguarding rumen health. 

These models factor in the degradability of dietary components, the interaction of forage fibers, and the impact of particle size on fermentation rates. This complexity provides a framework for nutritionists to precisely calibrate diets, enhancing milk yields without compromising health. Such advancements underscore the importance of improved rumen microbial function understanding in modern dairy farming. By adopting the NASEM guidelines, dairy farmers can feel reassured and confident in their farming practices, knowing that they are backed by the latest scientific research.

Redefining Dietary Fiber: The Critical Role of Physically Adjusted Neutral Detergent Fiber (paNDF) in Rumen Health 

The concept of physically adjusted neutral detergent fiber (paNDF) represents a significant leap in understanding fiber’s role in rumen health. It specifically addresses how fiber’s physical characteristics maintain the optimal rumen pH necessary for efficient digestion. In simpler terms, paNDF is a measure of the fiber’s physical properties, such as its size and how easily it breaks down, which are crucial for maintaining a healthy rumen environment. 

PaNDF factors in critical elements:

  • Forage NDF (fiber from forage)
  • Fiber fragility (ease of breakdown)
  • Particle size (interaction with rumen microbes)
  • Dietary starch content (impact on rumen pH)

Considering these, the paNDF model maintains a rumen pH of 6.0 to 6.1, fostering an environment for optimal microbial activity and digestion. In simpler terms, a healthy rumen is like a well-functioning digestive system in humans. It’s crucial for the cow’s overall health and efficient digestion of the feed. 

Dairy farmers and nutritionists need precise inputs on cow body weight, dietary forage NDF, and starch content. Tools like the Penn State Particle Separator measure these factors, particularly particle size, ensuring dietary adjustments to sustain the rumen environment. Though complex, the paNDF system ultimately allows dairy herd managers to optimize feed formulations, promoting cow health and efficient milk production.

Unveiling the Modern Energy Paradigm: Enhanced Maintenance Net Energy of Lactation (NEL) and Refined Non-Fiber Carbohydrates (NFC) Calculations

Component20 Years AgoCurrent Requirements
Maintenance Net Energy of Lactation (NEL)25%Increased by 25%
Non-Fiber Carbohydrates (NFC)General categorySeparated into starch and ROM
Digestibility of Supplemental Dietary Fatty Acids92%Reduced to 73%
Digestibility of NDF and StarchVariable based on dry matter intake (DMI)Refined with specific considerations

The recent energy requirement update shows a notable 25% increase in the maintenance net energy of lactation (NEL) requirement. This change highlights our growing understanding of the energy needs tied to today’s high-producing dairy cows. 

Another crucial adjustment is the division of non-fiber carbohydrates (NFC) into starch and residual organic matter (ROM). This allows for a more detailed examination of starch degradability and its influence on rumen fermentation. At the same time, ROM is considered 96% digestible. 

Advancements in digestibility calculations further enhance our predictive accuracy. Digestibility models, previously based solely on dry matter intake (DMI), are now more refined. For example, dietary fatty acid digestibility has been adjusted from 92% to 73%. NDF and starch digestibilities are tweaked based on intake levels, aligning dietary energy inputs with cow energy needs more precisely.

Revolutionizing Protein Nutrition: From Metabolizable Protein (MP) to Essential Amino Acids (EAA) in Dairy Cattle

Protein RequirementMetabolizable Protein (MP)Essential Amino Acids (EAA)
Maintenance500 g/day20 g/day
Lactation (30 kg milk/day)1,300 g/day60 g/day
Growth (500 g/day)950 g/day45 g/day
Pregnancy (6th to 9th month)700 g/day30 g/day

The recent NASEM report marks a significant shift in protein nutrition for dairy cattle by transitioning from metabolizable protein (MP) to essential amino acids (EAA). This change emphasizes precision in nutrient utilization to enhance dairy cow productivity and health. Previously, MP served as a broad measure of absorbed protein but fell short in predicting specific protein synthesis needs. In contrast, EAA provides a more accurate measure of the cow’s protein needs, allowing for more precise feeding strategies. 

The NASEM committee conducted an extensive review to identify the EAA requirements for synthesizing various proteins, including those in milk, urine, scurf, feces, tissue growth, and pregnancy. They established EAA needs through a thorough examination of research, focusing on the efficiency of EAA use, which varies by protein type. This approach allows for more accurate predictions of dietary protein conversion, enabling precise and cost-effective diet formulations. 

Adopting an EAA-centric model offers practical advantages. Nutritionists can now create diets with lower protein content while still meeting cows’ needs, reducing feed costs and environmental impacts from nitrogen excretion. As dairy nutrition advances, these improvements support more sustainable and economically viable farming practices.

Strategic Nutrition for Transition Cows: A Pivotal Aspect in Managing Post-Calving Health Risks

StageEnergy Needs (NEL, Mcal/day)Protein Needs (g/day)
Close-up Dry Period14 – 161,200 – 1,400
Fresh Period18 – 221,500 – 1,700
Peak Lactation22 – 281,700 – 2,000

The period around calving is crucial for dairy cow health and productivity, making transition cow management and feeding vital. Proper nutrition during this phase can mitigate post-calving disease risks. The NASEM 2021 report adopts a continuous function approach to predict energy and protein needs during gestation. Though more physiologic, this method challenges meeting nutritional requirements with a one-size-fits-all diet. 

Dry Matter Intake (DMI) predictions now factor in dietary Neutral Detergent Fiber (NDF) content to address this. As dietary NDF rises from 30% to 50%, DMI decreases, ensuring transition cows receive adequate fiber without overwhelming their digestive system. 

The report also doubles the dietary vitamin E requirement from 1,000 IU to 2,000 IU per day for close-up dry cows, boosting their immune function during this critical period. Additionally, dry cows’ trace mineral needs have been increased to prevent deficiencies as they prepare for lactation. Minimal changes were made for heifers and lactating cows, highlighting the unique nutritional needs during the transition period.

Embracing Nutritional Nuance: The NASEM 2021 Report’s Evolved Approach to Mineral and Vitamin Requirements

NutrientLactating Cows (mg/day)Dry Cows (mg/day)Heifers (mg/kg of DM)
Calcium10,0008,0006-12
Phosphorus6,2004,5003-7
Magnesium2,5001,8002-4
Sodium3,0002,5000.5-1.0
Potassium15,00012,00010-15
Vitamin A (IU)50,00030,00020,000-40,000
Vitamin D (IU)1,5001,000700-1,000
Vitamin E (IU)1,0002,000300-500

In addition to updated mineral and vitamin requirements, the NASEM 2021 report takes a nuanced approach to defining these essential nutrients. Unlike previous NRC guidelines focusing on specific production outcomes, the new report uses population mean values, moving away from a one-size-fits-all strategy. 

A notable change is the increase in dietary vitamin E for close-up dry diets, doubling from 1,000 IU to 2,000 IU per day. This adjustment aligns with recent research highlighting vitamin E’s role in disease prevention and cow health. Trace mineral requirements have also been revised, emphasizing their importance during the dry period, while changes for heifers and lactating cows remain minimal. 

The committee employs a factorial approach, utilizing data to calculate a population mean value instead of strict “requirements.” When data is sufficient, a safety factor is included. Due to limited data, the committee offers “adequate intake (AI)” recommendations rather than rigid requirements, allowing on-farm flexibility and adjustments tailored to specific herd conditions.

The Bottom Line

The new NASEM guidelines highlight pivotal updates reflecting two decades of advancements in dairy cows’ genetics, physiology, and nutrition. These guidelines equip dairy farmers with tools to fine-tune feeding strategies, emphasizing precise energy balance and a novel focus on essential amino acids for protein nutrition. Models like paNDF ensure optimal rumen health, which is crucial for maximizing feed efficiency. 

Incorporating these guidelines allows dairy farmers to manage feed costs more strategically without compromising cow health or productivity. Enhanced energy and protein calculations lead to balanced diets, potentially reducing feed expenses by minimizing waste. Focusing on nutrient bioavailability and adequate intake also streamlines mineral and vitamin supplementation, further optimizing costs. 

Adopting the NASEM guidelines offers significant practical benefits. They help farmers improve herd longevity and well-being, reducing veterinary costs and post-calving health risks. This boosts milk yields and enhances milk quality, leading to better market prices. By aligning feeding practices with the latest science, dairy farms can improve operational efficiency and profitability, ensuring a more sustainable and viable future for the industry.

Key Takeaways:

  • Feed costs remain a significant portion of production costs, ranging from 45% to nearly 60%, underscoring the need for efficient nutrient management.
  • The highest milk yield does not always equate to the best farm profitability; a balance between yield, composition, and quality is crucial.
  • The evolving understanding of rumen microbial function and nutrition guides precision feeding strategies.
  • Introduction of physically adjusted neutral detergent fiber (paNDF) to ensure rumen health by maintaining optimal rumen pH and efficient fiber digestion.
  • Significant updates in energy and protein requirements, including a 25% increase in maintenance net energy of lactation (NEL) and a shift from metabolizable protein (MP) to essential amino acids (EAA) for protein nutrition.
  • Continuous function approach in predicting the energy and protein needs of transition cows enhances disease risk management post-calving.
  • Revision of mineral and vitamin requirements with a focus on bioavailability and adequate intake (AI) rather than strict requirements.

Summary: The dairy industry has undergone significant changes in the past two decades due to genetics, management practices, and nutritional research. The National Academies of Science, Engineering, and Medicine (NASEM) released the eighth edition of the Nutrient Requirements of Dairy Cattle in December 2021, reflecting these changes. Understanding the nutrient requirements of dairy cattle is crucial for optimizing feed efficiency, improving milk production quality, reducing environmental impact, and ensuring profitability and sustainability. Selective breeding has enhanced traits like milk yield, disease resistance, and cow longevity, increasing productivity and resilience. Technological innovations have evolved management practices, such as precision farming tools, automated milking systems, and real-time health monitoring. The research landscape has expanded, generating data that has led to sophisticated models that accurately predict outcomes. Adhering to NASEM guidelines provides dairy farmers with confidence in their farming practices, backed by the latest scientific research. The NASEM 2021 report emphasizes strategic nutrition for transition cows, adopting a continuous function approach to predict energy and protein needs during gestation.

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Strategies for Dairy Farmers: Managing Feed Variation to Minimize Economic Stress

Sunday, May 12th, 2024

Find out how to handle feed variation and reduce stress on your dairy farm. See how you can cut losses and increase profits with better feed management.

Are you a dairy farmer trying to increase profitability without sacrificing your cows’ health or stress-free condition? Your daily operations depend on feed management, which frequently makes up 45% of your expenses. A well-controlled feed saves money and reduces stress for your staff and herd. Adjusting feed methods may mitigate financial losses and improve cattle health.

Read more for advice on reducing feed variability and stress. From bunkers to total mixed rations (TMR), these pointers will assist in simplifying processes and improving output. All set for some practical, financially wise guidance? Let’s go right in.

Overcoming Feed Variations: Ensuring Herd Health and Economic Stability 

Your herd’s health and the financial stability of your dairy farm may be much influenced by control of feed changes. At the bunker silo, silage packing and sealing are very vital. Here, poor methods cause oxygen intrusion and feed spoiling, compromising nutrients and generating financial waste.

Inconsistent mixing periods and imbalanced ingredient loading at the feed mixer might produce a TMR lacking consistency. This encourages cows to sort the feed, therefore upsetting their balanced diet and raising their chance of stomach problems.

Uneven particle sizes in feed may impede digestion in the cow’s stomach. Too tiny particles increase the danger of acidosis, while coarse particles lower the microbial digesting efficiency. Both badly affect herd health and milk output.

Economically, feed spoilage and digestive problems may cause wasted feed investments, decreased milk output, more veterinary bills, and less profitability. Strict feed management techniques assist in guaranteeing that your feed investment optimizes herd health and production.

Mastering Bunker Management: The Cornerstone of Dairy Farm Success 

The success of a dairy farm depends on good bunker management, which affects feed quality and the economy. Concentrate silage face management, feed-out rates, sealing quality, and packing density to save feed and lower spoilage.

When cutting silage, silage face management involves maintaining a smooth, vertical face. This reduces rotting and air exposure. Sharp cutting tools can also protect the silage integrity and prevent jagged edges.

Remove around thirty centimeters of silage daily for feed-out rates to minimize aerobic deterioration. Timing and amount are critical to maintaining a fresh, constant-quality feed for your herd.

Sealing Quality is really crucial. Seal the bunker silo with premium plastic and oxygen-limiting barrier films; fasten them with tires or sandbags. This maintains an anaerobic condition, therefore conserving feed nutrients and avoiding spoiling.

Over 700 kg of dry stuff per cubic meter is a necessary packing density. Layer and crush silage completely with heavy equipment to remove oxygen pockets and preserve silage quality.

Using these techniques improves dairy profitability and helps reduce feed waste. Proper bunker management is critical to the financial viability of your farm.

Optimizing Silo Dimensions: A Key to Safe and Efficient Feed Management

Silo dimensions are crucial for safety, cost, and feed management. Ensure the maximum height is accessible by defacing equipment and the minimum width matches two packing trailers. 

Remove 30 centimeters of silage daily to limit oxygen infiltration and minimize spoilage. Pack and seal the pile carefully, using plastic and oxygen-limiting barrier films secured with tires or sandbags.

Adhering to these guidelines maintains a reasonable feedout rate, enhances safety, and boosts dairy farm profitability.

Effective Silo Packing and Covering: Your Key to Reducing Spoilage and Boosting Silage Quality 

Packing and covering your silo correctly is critical to keeping oxygen out and preserving silage quality. Spread the silage evenly during filling to ensure uniform density. Use heavy machinery for tight packing to minimize air pockets. 

Cover the silo immediately with high-quality plastic and oxygen-limiting films to create an airtight seal. Lay the plastic carefully, avoiding gaps or tears. 

Secure the cover with tires or sandbags placed closely side by side. This helps maintain the seal and adds pressure. Focusing on these steps can reduce dry matter loss and preserve nutritional value, boosting profitability.

The Art of Feedout: Safeguarding Your Silage and Your Bottom Line

Removing silage from the bunker is a vital part of feedout practices. Proper removal prevents spoilage and ensures quality feed for your cows. Aim to remove about 30 centimeters of silage daily to keep it fresh and maintain the silage face. Please ensure no leftovers are at the bottom, as they can spoil and lead to economic losses.

Total Mixed Ration (TMR): The Backbone of Effective Feed Management 

The Total Mixed Ration (TMR) is vital for effective feed management in dairy farming. It ensures each cow gets a balanced diet, providing a mix of forages, grains, proteins, vitamins, and minerals crucial for cow health and milk production. 

Fiber and forage in TMR are essential for chewing and saliva production, which help maintain ruminal pH and a healthy rumen. Proper pH levels prevent digestive issues like acidosis, which can harm cow health and milk yield. 

However, TMR benefits can be recovered if forage particles are shorter. Otherwise, cows will sort the feed and miss essential nutrients. Conversely, particles that are too short may not provide enough fiber. 

Accurate measurement and mixing of feed ingredients are crucial. Tools like Feed Supervisor can track TMR composition and allow real-time adjustments. By doing so, dairy farms can enhance herd nutrition and farm profitability.

Optimizing Forage Particle Size: A Catalyst for Higher DMI and Enhanced Milk Production

The physical characteristics of the ration are crucial for increasing dry matter intake (DMI) and meeting your cow’s energetic needs for milk production. When forage particles are sized correctly, cows can consume more feed efficiently. However, if particles are too long, they can cause rumen distention and potential health issues. 

Proper particle length helps maintain rumen health by preventing selective eating, where cows leave behind coarser feed. This can lead to an unbalanced diet and digestive disorders like acidosis. Addressing this ensures balanced intake, promotes cow health, and optimizes milk production.

The Meticulous Preparation of Total Mixed Ration (TMR): How to Optimize Productivity and Profitability 

The meticulous preparation of Total Mixed Ration (TMR) directly impacts your farm’s productivity and profitability. Here’s how to ace it: 

  • Ingredient Order: Load long forages first, then smaller forages, grains, and supplements. This ensures even mixing.
  • Scale Accuracy: Calibrate your scales regularly. Accurate weighing guarantees a balanced diet for every cow.
  • Mixing: Use moderate speed and recommended times. This ensures a uniform mix.
  • Ration Distribution: Distribute TMR evenly in the feed bunk to avoid nutrient imbalances.
  • Feeding Frequency: Feed and push up frequently to keep TMR fresh, boosting intake and preventing selective eating.

Following these TMR prep steps enhances feed investment returns. Balanced nutrition boosts rumen health, dry matter intake, and milk production, leading to higher profits.

The Bottom Line

Effective feed management is critical to your dairy farm’s success. By addressing feed variations—from silage prep and silo dimensions to TMR consistency—you can reduce waste and boost milk production. Proper bunker management and meticulous silo packing maintain silage quality while optimizing forage particle size in the TMR ensures a balanced diet and reduces digestive issues. 

Comprehensive feed management improves herd health and dry matter intake (DMI), driving milk production efficiency. Reporting tools help make informed decisions, reducing feed costs and boosting profitability. Consistent feeding practices enhance livestock health and productivity, proving that well-managed feed solutions are crucial for your dairy farm’s economic stability.

Key Takeaways:

  • Effective feed management is critical to reducing economic losses in dairy farming.
  • Proper bunker management techniques can minimize feed spoilage and maximize profits.
  • Well-optimized silo dimensions are essential for safety and efficient feed management.
  • Packing and covering silage properly can significantly reduce the risk of oxygen infiltration and spoilage.
  • The total mixed ration (TMR) must be balanced to avoid digestive disorders and improve cow health.
  • Ensuring the correct forage particle size can enhance dry matter intake (DMI) and milk production.
  • Precise TMR preparation, including correct ingredient loading and mixing instructions, can boost farm productivity and profitability.

Summary: Dairy farmers must prioritize feed management to increase profitability without compromising cow health. Feed management accounts for 45% of daily expenses and can save money, reduce stress, and improve cattle health. Poor bunker management methods can lead to oxygen intrusion, feed spoiling, nutrient compromise, and financial waste. Inconsistent mixing periods and imbalanced ingredient loading can cause a TMR lacking consistency, leading to cows sorting the feed and increasing the risk of stomach problems. Uneven particle sizes in feed can also hinder digestion, affecting herd health and milk output. Mastering bunker management is crucial for dairy farm success, as it affects feed quality and the economy. Focusing on silage face management, feed-out rates, sealing quality, and packing density can save feed and lower spoilage. Optimizing silo dimensions is essential for safety, cost, and feed management. Feedout practices are essential for dairy farming, ensuring quality feed and preventing spoilage. Accurate measurement and mixing of feed ingredients are crucial, and optimizing forage particle size is essential for higher dry matter intake and enhanced milk production. Preparing TMR directly impacts farm productivity and profitability, boosting rumen health, dry matter intake, and milk production, leading to higher profits.

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Dairy Nutrition. The K.I.S.S. of Wealth!

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Thursday, August 22nd, 2013

Thinking of our personal health and hearing the term ‘nutrition’, you might be motivated to eat more vegetables.  That’s simple and we all like the K.I.S.S. (keep it sweet and simple) principle.

Dairy Breeding is Simple Too

All you have to do is pick the right dairy breed, the right dairy genetics and, at least occasionally, manage to have Mother Nature and the marketplace somewhat on your side and it follows that you will produce buckets of milk and be the proud owner of a sustainable dairy business.  And that’s exactly why we more often face the O.U.C.H. syndrome – Overworked Underproducing Cattle Herds. Why is it that, with all the technology, science and passion at our fingertips, we are missing something?
nutrition consultant scott b

They Are What They Eat!

Cows eat every day.  Cows are milked every day.  It would seem to follow that those simple, daily actions could be the key to simplifying our dairy success.  Perhaps dairy breeders are missing opportunities and should seek expert help from nutrition consultants. After all, meeting production, herd health and economic goals directly affects the profitability of every dairy herd. The tricky part is that every dairy operation has unique issues that must be considered as part of the nutrition solution.

Why Bother With a Nutrition Consultant?

Scott B_ppAn effective nutrition consultant will investigate and analyze all the issues impacting your cows and thus impacting your success.  The Bullvine went to Dr. Scott Bascom to get some insight on the value of working with a nutrition consultant.  Dr. Bascom is the Director of Technical Services at Agri-Nutrition Consulting, Inc. (ANC) (Read more articles about animal nutrition by Dr. Bascom). He confirms “nutrition consultants can design a customized feeding program to meet their client’s specific goals and make the best use of the resources they have on the farm, and are skilled at feeding cows, heifers, and dry cows in a manner that will keep them healthy and highly productive.”  However his years of experience starting at college have given him a wider viewpoint.   While in college he attended a lecture given by Dr. Paul Chandler.   Chandler shared,  “There are many reasons beyond economics that a nutritional consultant provides value.” He feels that one of the best resources that a good nutrition consultant can develop is in maximizing the human side. “You have days when you are also a financial advisor, psychologist, marriage counselor and a loyal friend.” He continues, “At the time I didn’t comprehend what Dr. Chandler meant but now I recognize that he was telling us we would have to go beyond our skill in nutrition to develop a high level of trust with our clients if we were going to be successful.”

Not Just a Quick Fix. And BORING is good too!

The very nature of dairy breeding has conditioned breeders to the fact that any process we implement or change we make must be undertaken not as a short term fix but with a view to profitability for many years to come.  Changes are both feared and welcomed. Feared because they’re never easy.  Welcomed because of the potential for improvement. Dr. Bascom has a somewhat unconventional view of change as it relates to nutrition. “With my clients I am striving for BORING.  I want a boring ration that never changes because we feed the same thing all the time.  I want cows that are BORING because they are healthy, comfortable and get bred in a timely fashion. I want my herd visits to be BORING because we have no major issue to consider. My point is the goal is to get our clients to a place where we are meeting our goals and rarely need to make any big changes.  At this point we make very minor adjustments when we need to make a change.  The cows are happy, the producer is happy, and I am happy.”

From the Bunker to the Bank!

We spend research dollars to identify a cow’s genes to the smallest snippet.  We spend millions of dollars on the cow with the best dairy conformation. But we can’t agree on what to feed her at the bunker. Dr. Bascom feels that dairy nutrition is economically imperative. “The producer that isn’t working with a nutritionist has a lot as risk financially.  The value of feed fed to a lactating cow can be $8 or more per day. For a 100 cow herd the value of feed fed in a year is well over $250,000!  With feed costs so high, optimizing income over feed cost becomes critical.”  He backs up the statistics with personal experience. “When ANC picks up a new client that was not using a nutritional consultant prior to me, it is not unusual for us to increase income over feed cost by $0.25/cow/day. This adds up to a significant increased annual income.”

Keep Your Money Growing Just for You

“Another significant reason to work with a nutritional consultant is that they can bring new ideas to the farm.  Consultants are exposed to a diverse range of information including what we learn from other clients, trade shows, continuing education, and other people in our support network.  Part of our job as an advisor is to filter through all this information and bring back to our clients what is most applicable to their situation?”

How to Increase Milk Production

As I write this, I begin to see that the practice of nutrition is like the practice of medicine.  Being blessed with both an animal nutritionist and a medical doctor in the family, it is increasingly clear to me that the really good practitioners in either field are the ones who not only understand the science but can put it into practice.  Dr. Bascom readily is a storehouse of working examples derived from dairy nutrition consulting. “Let’s talk about increasing income over feed cost. Often this includes increasing milk production.   However, too often we can fall into the trap of pushing for higher milk production in a way that isn’t profitable. When we decide that higher milk production is the key to increasing income over feed cost then we look at forage quality, cow comfort, facilities, and a variety of management factors to decide how to reach this goal.   The answer is different on every farm.    For example if I have a client that has average days in milk of 250 days then we are not going to increase milk production until we improve reproduction.  On the other hand, a client that is overstocking their facilities might experience an immediate increase in milk per cow and total milk shipped by culling out some of their bottom end cows thus improving cow comfort for the rest of the herd.”

What Does Quality Cost?

In polling dairy breeders who do not use consultants, the number one reason given is that either the consultant or the feed program will be too expensive.  Dr. Bascom appreciates the opportunity to answer this concern. “Again, we start by talking about income over feed cost!  Sometimes decreasing out –of-pocket costs drops income over feed cost! The answer to this question is to look for ways to make the best use of the resources available on the farm.   We ask questions like, are we getting the most value out of the forages we are feeding? Are we feeding commodities that are competitively priced? Are we wasting feed?” Too often we measure financial success by decreased input dollars.  Sometimes we have to spend a little to make more.  A key learning to internalize is that you can waste money just as easily on excessive quality as you can on deficient quality.  Optimum quality is the goal.

Let’s Ruminate on Components!

“In most cases increasing components will increase income over feed cost.  The exception would be in markets that don’t pay premiums for high component milk. Low components could be an indication of cow health issues.   So fat and protein tests are something I watch closely.

The first step in high component milk is about feeding a healthy rumen. Forage quality is paramount.   We need high quality forages to optimize rumen health. So the first step is to make sure forage quality is optimum.  We also balance carbohydrates and degradable protein to encourage rumen health. The rumen bugs produce very high quality protein that drives both milk yield and components. After we have designed a diet for optimum rumen health and to maximize the production of high quality protein by the rumen then we look at additives. These would include bypass protein sources and rumen protected amino acids.”

Beyond the Basics to Practical and Personal

One of the most rewarding aspects of being connected to the dairy industry is hearing stories such as the ones Dr. Bascom shared with us.  “Years ago I worked with a dairyman in the southeastern part of the US that told me I got more milk for him than anyone else. I was only able to get his cows to 50 lbs. of milk but he was close to 30 when we started. This won’t get me on the cover of a major dairy magazine but to him it was a really big deal.”  Of course there are times ANC’s client’s success has meant rising to a challenge. “One of my ANC clients challenged me to feed as much forage as we could feed to his cows and maintain healthy cows, production at 75 lbs. of milk, and high components.    We were able to get the diet up to 82% forage as a percent of dry matter.   We maintained milk at 75 lbs., fat test over 4.0%, protein at 3.3%, cut purchased feed costs, cow health improved, and reproductive performance improved.  I didn’t think we could take the forage to this level without losing milk!”  Every client has different goals, says Bascom. “Several years ago I started working with a new client that markets embryos.   The goals were to maintain fat test at 4.0%, protein at 3.4%, and cut purchased feed cost. We made adjustments to the diet to feed more of their homegrown forages to cut purchased feed cost. We also added a liquid feed to the ration and made some adjustments in how the TMR was mixed.  Not only did we save money but the cows came up in both protein and fat test. This put more money in the milk check and also made more cows in the herd eligible for the foreign embryo market.”

ROF is Good. Return on Relationship (ROR) is Great.

It doesn’t matter what facet of the dairy industry you work in, you’re going to find passionate people.  Dr. Bascom is one of them. “I love cows,” says this ANC consultant and adds, “Following a career in nutrition allows me to be around cows and people who love cows.”  And that is a key motivator for him. “The cow success stories are rewarding but perhaps the most rewarding experiences are the people success stories. I have celebrated weddings and the birth of children with my clients. I have watched their children grow-up and find their way into the dairy operation. I have cried tears at the loss of their loved ones. These experiences are just as rewarding as celebrating high rolling herd averages, the sale of bulls into AI, All-American nominations, and high classification scores. This is very much a people business and it is so rewarding to gain the trust of my clients in a way that they want to share good times and the hard times in life with me.”

The Bullvine Bottom Line

We can all identify with the passion that makes a career in dairying the focus of our daily lives.  However, we can’t let rose colored glasses cause us to limit our dairy herd success.  Dairy nutrition consultants help us to investigate and discover ways to overcome unnecessary or unseen obstacles.  So that leaves the Simple Question: “Why bother with nutrition consultants?”  And leads to the Simple Answer:  “You can’t afford not to.”

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Calf Colostrum Versus Replacer - Which Is More Beneficial?
Silage Inoculants: Are They An Investment, Insurance or Intervention?

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