Research Accomplishment Reports 2007

Dairy Extension Programs

G. Heersch
Department of Animal and Food Sciences

 

Project Description

Development, enhancement and sustainability of the dairy industry of Kentucky (23rd largest in the US and 2nd largest in the Southeast) has been the focus of several programs and efforts of the dairy extension program.

Education of Kentucky farmers, extension educators and allied industry partners on the latest advances in dairy production practices has been conducted through conferences, county and area programs and through educational material available over the internet.

Collaborative development and implementation of educational programs with KY dairy industry stakeholders such as the statewide Kentucky Dairy Development Council (KDDC) made up of producers and allied industry personnel has been carried out.

Educational programs designed to improve grazing programs have been delivered to help farmers implement and integrate better animal and plant management.

In-depth business plans to evaluate the feasibility and sustainability of new and expanded businesses have been developed for individual dairy farmers.

Beef and milk quality assurance educational programs have been conducted to improve the quality of meat and milk marketed in Kentucky. 

Several educational opportunities have been available to youth in the 4-H dairy program. 

The dairy manual was completed and dairy volunteer leaders were trained in the 4-H Livestock Volunteer Certification Program.

Impact

Awareness of grazing programs, advanced reproduction technologies, controlled length of dry periods, use of gendered selected semen and enhanced lighting programs have increased and programs have been implemented by farmers.

Collaboration with KDDC has resulted in and increase in the number of farmers who have enrolled in dairy recordkeeping (Dairy Herd Improvement) for improved dairy herd management and the Kentucky Farm Business Management financial records and business management program. Herds enrolled through a program sponsored by KDDC have increased their milk production and qualified for a premium on the milk produced. 

Development of business plans with individual dairy farmers has provided them with the information to make critical decisions regarding the establishment or expansion of their dairy farm businesses. 

Dairy quality assurance programs have increased the awareness of dairy farmers of practices which will improve the quality milk and animals marketed. 

Dairy youth have gained knowledge and improved life skills while participating in the many 4-H dairy program educational opportunities. 

The Dairy Manual for the Kentucky 4-H Livestock Volunteer Certification Program was completed and is being used in volunteer leader training and with 4-H youth.

Publications

Scharko, P, D. Amaral-Phillips and A.Smith, 2007, ID-140 Kentucky Beef Quality Assurance Program.

Tucker, L. and G. Heersche, Jr., 2007, Kentucky 4-H Livestock Volunteer Certification Resource Manual – Dairy Cattle.