Mrs. Dianne Shoemaker, Extension Dairy Specialist, OSU Extension Center at Wooster
Formulating a ration to get the same amount of milk production but less manure. Covering the bunker silo in the fall but not having to uncover and handle plastic and tires before feeding. Futuristic? Yes. Impossible? No. Practical? You bet. These topics as well as a panel focusing on harvesting quality forage and a look at managing Johne's Disease in the herd based on results of the newer, more sensitive fecal test results round out your day at the biennial Northeast Ohio Dairy Management Conference.
Edible, practical, spoilage-reducing bunker silo coverings have been a topic of interest and research for Larry Berger, nutritionist at the University of Illinois for several years. Dr. Berger will share results of his latest field trials and how this technique can be implemented on-farm. Current results show great promise, not only reducing spoilage, but actually adding some feed value from the ingredients of the cover itself.
Tired of hauling manure? When will the ground be fit? What ground is available? Potential nutrient overload? Bill Weiss, ruminant nutritionist at OSU, will share ways rations can be formulated to maintain milk production but decrease manure and/or manure nutrient secretion.
Good speakers, interesting discussion with fellow dairy farmers, students and dairy industry types as well as a fine prime rib lunch await those who register for the conference. The Raintree Country Club, just north of the Akron/Canton airport in Stark County, is easily accessible from I-77.
Full conference details and registration materials will be posted at https://dairy.osu.edu. They are also available at your county Extension office or by contacting Dianne Shoemaker at the Extension Center in Wooster at (330) 263-3799. Registration is $25 per person until March 15th or $35 per person after the early registration deadline.