Tag: dairy
Cattle handling: The VITAL framework for better stockmanship
Effective cattle handling requires both physical skill and emotional awareness. Ohio State University Extension dairy specialist Jason Hartschuh details the VITAL framework—covering values, knowledge, execution, situational awareness, and learning—to help farmers build safer, low-stress livestock handling habits.
Say ‘cheese!’ — it’s good for you
With U.S. cheese consumption up 30% over the last two decades, this dairy staple offers essential protein and calcium. OSU Extension specialist Maurice Eastridge breaks down the health facts on saturated fat and sodium, plus how cheese demand directly impacts milk prices for farmers.
Managing the challenges and opportunities of dairy beef cross calves
Dairy-beef cross calves bring a big financial premium, but they require different management than standard Holstein calves. Ohio State Extension's Jason Hartschuh breaks down the latest research on beef genetic selection, managing early-life shipping stress, and optimized milk feeding programs.
Evaluating your heat stress mitigation plan should include your nutrition program
Did your dairy cows suffer during the recent heat wave? Beyond fans and soakers, nutritional strategies—including yeast products, minerals, niacin and adjusting feed delivery times—can help alleviate heat stress, sustain milk production and reduce herd inflammation, according to Ohio State Extension's Jason Hartschuh.
New H-2A changes could ease dairy labor shortages
The Securing Agriculture’s Workforce Act of 2026 aims to end the crippling dairy labor shortage. By removing seasonal H-2A visa limits and stabilizing unpredictable wage rate fluctuations, this legislation would provide vital relief to struggling U.S. dairy operations.
How to transition your farm to the next generation
How do you transition your farm to the next generation? OSU Extension's David Marrison explains why the first steps should focus on defining your legacy and organizing your assets. Learn about the free FARMS spreadsheet and an upcoming workshop to help secure your family farm's future.
Farm policy illusions: Inside milk jargon, DOGE and Big Ag
From confusing Federal Milk Marketing Order jargon to the deadly dismantling of USAID food programs by DOGE, Alan Guebert cuts through the noise. Explore why Big Ag continues to push outdated ethanol solutions while independent farmers are left scraping by.
Celebrate dairy farmers all month long
In celebration of June Dairy Month, Dwight Roseler reflects on the 250-year history of American agriculture. From a humorous "city boy" definition of a cow to the deeply moving words of Frank Mann’s Farmers Creed, discover why we owe so much gratitude to our hardworking dairy farmers.
Variety of butter churns attempted to make a very arduous task...
Churning butter was an arduous pioneer task that sparked a wave of American ingenuity. Antique expert Paul Locher explores the evolution of the churn—from simple wooden dashers and decorated pottery to rocking "cradles" and crank-powered models that transformed a chore into a science.
Tips for making high-quality baleage
To maximize baleage quality, aim for 45-55% moisture and wrap within two hours. Ohio State University Extension expert Jason Hartschuh shares tips on increasing bale density and new research on "sweet hay" preservation to help farmers manage harvest windows and improve forage bunk life.
