The Cornell Cooperative Extension associations in Cayuga, Onondaga and Oswego counties are working together with Cornell Pro-Dairy to bring dairy farmers in the area the 2013 edition of the Winter Dairy Management program.

It will take place on March 15 at The Red Mill Inn located at 4 Syracuse St., Baldwinsville.

The cost to attend is $20 and includes lunch. The program will begin at 9:30 a.m. and run until 2:30 p.m.

From reproduction to forage quality to cow comfort, this wide-ranging program will offer practical ideas for dairy farmers to stay afloat in the tough times and capitalize when milk prices are good.

FSA borrower credits are available.

Pre-registration is required and must be done by March 8. To register, please call 315-963-7286 and send payment to Oswego CCE, 3288 Main St., Mexico, NY 13114.

Here is an overview of what the presentations will cover:

·  Is Your Repro Program the Most Profitable Alternative?

Because of the wide array of reproductive management strategies available, the ability to predict the future reproductive and economic performance of herds is a valuable tool to dairy producers and consultants.

·  Dairy Modernization – Factors Affecting Profitability to Consider.

Merging the research and educational outreach of Cornell Extension and the vast network of existing support industries to identify and implement progressive herd and crop management strategies.

·  Paying Attention to Forage Quality Can Improve Net Farm Income.

Retaining crop nutrients grown and fed is influenced by harvest quality and silo management. Harvesting forages at proper maturity, SiloStop/FeedFresh-Too good to pass up; inoculants: Insurance or Strategy; shredlage-what do the feed trials say?

·  LED Lighting-Field Research Results.

LED lighting technologies and products are rapidly changing and evolving. New fixtures are available and being used by dairy producers. Proper lighting is important for optimum cow performance and providing a safe and pleasant work environment.

·  Optimizing Cow Comfort throughout the Barn. Cow Comfort Impacts Profit!

Productivity increases in dairy production can be obtained in three ways: genetics feeding management and cow comfort or handling improvements. An investment in cow comfort pays in sound returns.

Cornell Cooperative Extension of Oswego County provides equal program and employment opportunities. Their mission is to improve the quality of life for the community through education that is valuable to the lives of Oswego County residents.

For more information or to advise us if you have special needs please call 315-963-7286 or go online to www.thatscooperativeextension.org