The Hoard's Dairyman Podcast

In this episode, Associate Editor Jessica Miller reads an article exploring the benefits and limitations of storing frozen colostrum for dairy calves. Research shows that while frozen colostrum remains a valuable backup when fresh colostrum is unavailable, some important components decline during extended storage. Learn why researchers now recommend using frozen colostrum within eight months and discover best practices for freezing and thawing it safely. 👉 Please follow us on your favorite po...

Sponsored by: Zoetis What does it take to operate a dairy in Southern California, just outside one of the nation's largest population centers? Fourth-generation dairy farmer Brad Scott joins us to share his family's remarkable journey, which began with six Guernsey cows in 1913. Scott discusses the challenges and opportunities of farming near Los Angeles, including urban growth, water management, sustainability, and connecting with consumers. He also shares how his family's dairy and creamery...

This episode explores the lasting impact early-life respiratory disease can have on beef-on-dairy calves. Hoard’s Dairyman Associate Editor Jessica Miller discusses research from Penn State’s Melissa Cantor showing that calves with lung consolidation at weaning experienced reduced growth and were more likely to receive lower carcass grades later in life. The findings highlight how respiratory disease may have economic consequences that extend well beyond the calf stage and why keeping beef-on...

This webinar took place on Monday, August 10, at noon (Central Time). Victor E. Cabrera from the University of Wisconsin-Madison presented: Introducing RuFaS: A Digital Twin for a Sustainable Dairy Future. RuFaS (Ruminant Farm System model) is an integrated simulation platform designed to capture how decisions in one part of the dairy farm affect the whole system. This webinar will provide a high-level introduction to the model, include a visual walkthrough, and highlight published applicati...

In this episode, Associate Editor Jessica Miller reads “A barn-building plan for animal welfare,” which she also wrote. This episode explores a vision for the dairy barn of the future centered on animal welfare. Jessica highlights a proposed housing system designed to support natural cow behavior, stable herd structures, indoor and outdoor access, cow-calf bonding, and greater animal autonomy while incorporating technology and automation. 👉 Please follow us on your favorite podcast app, and d...