Livestock: Dairy
Mississippi
is a deficit producing state resulting in milk being imported from sources
outside the state to meet market needs. Although the state is losing
dairy producers, cow numbers and total production is not going down as
rapidly as the number of herds. Dairy farms will continue to operate
and exist in Mississippi, but fewer dairies will be milking more cows
and using more sophisticated management techniques.
Several management challenges have been identified. Meeting the nutritional needs of dairy cattle appears to be the weakest area of management. There is a large difference in genetic potential and actual production and much of this difference can be attributed to deficiencies in nutritional management. Most of the forages produced in Mississippi are low quality, with the exception of ryegrass and corn silage. These forages must be adequately supplemented to provide a balanced ration. Other management problems on Mississippi dairy farms include high somatic cell counts, long calving interval, low usage of A. I. in replacement heifers, heat stress management and problems dealing with waste management regulations.
Mastitis is the most costly animal health problem facing Mississippi producers. The somatic cell count regulations have forced many producers to make management improvements in the area of mastitis prevention. Some marketing organizations are paying quality premiums, which offer some incentive to produce higher quality milk and reduce the incidence of mastitis.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Where can Mississippi producers get their feed and forages tested?
- What is the acceptable aflatoxin level in feedstuffs to dairy cows?
- What are the basic waste management requirements for Mississippi dairy farms?
- What is the Dairy Herd Improvement Association (DHIA)?
- What is the most acceptable bedding material for free stalls in Mississippi?
- What are the most effective ways to reduce heat stress on dairy farms in Mississippi?
- How do I determine the quality of milk replacers?
- How do I reduce my bulk tank bacteria count?
- How do I reduce my bulk tank preliminary incubation count?
- How do I reduce my bulk tank somatic cell count?
- What level of stray voltage is detrimental to dairy cows in the milking parlor?
Dairy Publications
- MSUcares Dairy publications
- Winter Forages For Grazing
- Managing Animal Waste Nutrients
- Dairy Newsletter
Other Information
Breed Organizations:
- Holstein Association USA
- American Jersey Cattle Association
- Ayrshire Breeders Association
- American Guernsey Association
- American Milking Shorthorn Society
- Brown Swiss Association
Management:
Milk Pricing and Marketing:
Commodities:
Other:
