The conference is a collaborative effort between the extension services of Iowa State University, the University of Illinois, the University of Minnesota and the University of Wisconsin.
The conference will begin on Wednesday, June 3, with a pre-conference symposium sponsored by Diamond V. This session is designed to challenge current industry standards and provide insights into herd health and efficiency. Topics include dairy nutrition issues, current trends in lameness management and translating science into practical farm implementation recommendations.
Following the symposium, the main conference plenary kicks off with a focus on “Finding the next 5 pounds of milk,” presented by Barry Bradford, Clint Meadows Endowed Chair in Dairy Management at Michigan State University, and a data-driven look at feed efficiency with Francisco Penagaricano, associate professor at the University of Wisconsin-Madison.
A highlight of the afternoon will be the High Component Awards, recognizing the highest three component herds in the four-state region. The top three winning farmers will participate in a featured panel discussion to share the management strategies behind their elite production levels.
The June 4 plenary session will focus on how high-oleic soybeans fit in ration models, featuring Paul Kononoff, professor and dairy nutrition extension specialist with the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Lynn Davis will discuss his 35 years of experience in quality control and soybean roasting. A panel of nutritionists will also discuss their experiences in feeding high-oleic soybeans.
Breakout sessions will include topics on leveraging tech in the field, practical applications of the Cornell Net Carbohydrate and Protein System, designing feeding programs for profitability, optimizing reproductive efficiency of heifers and using cover crops in dairy cattle nutrition.
The event will conclude with a post-conference session sponsored by Forage Genetics International. The session will feature a panel of experts discussing strategies for getting the most out of alfalfa in rations. This will also feature a tour of the Forage Genetics International Research Center in West Salem, Wisconsin, to witness innovations driving alfalfa quality and performance.
In addition to the educational program, a trade show with over 40 companies exhibiting their latest products will be present. Continuing Education Units are available for conference attendance.
To register or learn more, visit the Four-State Dairy Extension Group website or contact your state dairy specialist. For more information, contact Jim Salfer at 612-360-4506 or salfe001@umn.edu.
