Williams, Brian R. (author), Raper, Kellie Curry (author), DeVuyst, Eric A. (author), Peel, Derrell (author), Lalman, David (author), Richards, Chris (author), and Doye, Damona (author)
Format:
Journal article
Publication Date:
2013-12
Published:
USA
Location:
Agricultural Communications Documentation Center, Funk Library, University of Illinois Box: 140 Document Number: D06068
26 pages, Proper calf care is important on dairy farms as management practices affect animal well-being and productivity as well as farm profitability. This article highlights areas of calf management needing improvement according to the results of a mixed-mode survey intended to provide a snapshot of calf management practices in Vermont. Areas for which improvement is needed aligned with farmers' identification of topics of interest and included calving management, nutrition (particularly neonatal feeding practices), and biosecurity (including vaccination). Extension professionals can draw on information about practices needing improvement and topics of interest to farmers to better position themselves to provide outreach tailored to the real and perceived needs of their clients.
Authors emphasize the growing need for standardized terminology when explaining soil, plant and livestock management practices to an increasingly diverse array of producers.
