by Troy Bishopp
CANASTOTA, NY — American writer and longshoreman, Eric Hoffer observed, “In times of change learners inherit the earth; while the learned find themselves beautifully equipped to deal with a world that no longer exists.” This philosophy seems quite apropos for farmers as well as a country dealing with Coronavirus. (more…)
by Courtney Llewellyn
Offering some good news as the end of winter slowly nears, the National Dairy Herd Information Association (DHIA)’s Scholarship Committee awarded $1,000 scholarships to 14 students across the nation. Judges evaluated applicants on scholastic achievements, leadership in school and community activities and responses to DHI- and career-related questions. One of the applicants deemed worthy of an award was Laura Littrell of St. Johnsville, NY. (more…)
This guidance is provided for animal agriculture workers to include those employed in veterinary health; manufacturing and distribution of animal medical materials and supplies, animal vaccines, animal drugs, feed, and bedding, etc.; raising of animals; animal production operations; transportation of live animals, animal medical supplies; transportation of deceased animals for disposal; livestock markets, including live bird markets, slaughter and packing plants. (more…)
by George Looby
In the several decades since the introduction of antibiotics, the livestock industry has enjoyed a period during which animal losses due to susceptible diseases was greatly reduced. In addition to the treatment of active diseases, it was found that the addition of certain antibiotics to cattle diets acted as growth stimulants, increasing feed efficiency. However, consumer groups came to the realization that some of the antibiotics used in the feeding and treatment of some animals might be retained in their meat. These groups began to question the use of antibiotics in the rations of animals destined for human consumption, worried about the possible adverse effects of consuming such products. (more…)
by Edith Tucker
MILFORD, NH – In line with longstanding tradition, the latest recipient of New Hampshire Green Pastures Dairy Farmer of the Year award was recognized at two different events, held in adjacent states nearly five months apart: in September 2019 at the Eastern States Exposition in West Springfield, MA, and in February at the Farm, Forest & Garden Expo in Manchester. (more…)
by Deborah Jeanne Sergeant
If you think that growing a good pasture is all about the plants, Sarah Flack would disagree. A grazing consultant and an author of books on grazing, Flack presented “Grazing Management: Livestock Perspective” as a recent webinar hosted by Food Animal Concerns Trust. (more…)
by Sally Colby
Solar power is one of the fastest-growing segments of renewable energy – it’s hard to find an area that hasn’t had some degree of solar development. While interest in solar is growing, there’s limited space for roof-mounted solar systems. Such systems provide ample kW production for one farm, but there is a growing need for large-scale ground-mounted solar systems. Preparation for ground-mounted systems is a costly segment of the overall project, and usually results in some level of disturbance to the existing ecosystem. (more…)
by Michael Wren
COOPERSTOWN, NY – On March 10, dairy farmers gathered to learn the latest trends in the industry. The annual Central New York Dairy Day conference and trade show are sponsored by Cornell Cooperative Extension. This year’s conference showed that with current market increases in the price of butterfat and protein content there may be opportunities for farmers to boost revenue – and how pathogen-based treatment might lower your overall expenditure. David Balbian, dairy management specialist, introduced the speakers. (more…)
by Courtney Llewellyn
Spring is a very busy time for farmers of all kinds, but especially those focused on growing crops. Land needs to be prepped and tilled; seeds need to be started; transplants need to be planted. With borders closed and travel essentially off-limits, many in the agricultural industry may see a shortage of seasonal workers this spring. (more…)
by George Looby
For more than a decade states with strong agricultural bases have put in place laws intended to protect animal owners from groups whose primary focus is the “wellbeing” of animals. Oftentimes these groups have no interest in the overall management of the farms whose level of animal care does not meet their standards. It is not by choice that some livestock owners allow their animals’ level of care to become lax. Unforeseen circumstances can alter best practices and compromises must be made that are less than ideal. They may not be the best but better alternatives may not be possible. (more…)
by Troy Bishopp
TULLY, NY – Spring ushers in warmer weather, blooming flowers and dairy animals getting their first taste of pasture. This bite of grass is for many a way to produce milk for less cost, but only if you get your head around financial and grazing planning. (more…)
by Sally Colby
The original version of Dutch Hollow Farm was much like other New York dairy farms, with 55 cows and one family to support. Since then, the Schodack Landing farm has undergone numerous changes, but the Chittenden family’s commitment to maintaining an excellent purebred herd has not. (more…)
