Extension helps South Dakota dairies boost health, production and profits
South Dakota is among the 16 leading dairy states in the United States, contributing 13% of U.S. milk production. The dairy industry in South Dakota has more than doubled the number of milk cows since its historic low in 2004. This increase in milk cows in South Dakota and the surrounding region creates a unique opportunity to produce high quality milk and dairy-beef calves and creates a vibrant workforce opportunity, especially among the state’s fast-rising Hispanic population.
A team comprised of South Dakota State University Extension field and state specialists provide research-based information and resources to boost the health, production and profits of South Dakota dairies. The team collaborates with stakeholders to provide essential certification trainings and as a member of the I-29 Moo University Collaboration, SDSU Extension connects South Dakota’s producers with peers and industry experts across a five-state region. Extension educators deliver customized farm employee trainings to reach Hispanic employees and farm managers to more than 16 farms in the region, reaching approximately 500 employees and managers representing over 68,000 cows. Producers are asking for on-farm trainings (theorical and practical) to improve employee skills associated with a reduction in management and production issues on the farm. This activity will direct future Extension efforts regarding reproductive management. A unique opportunity for Extension is teaching university dairy science students about the National Dairy FARM Animal Care program and animal handling.
As a result of these research-based resources and educational activities, South Dakota dairies have boosted health, production and profits. South Dakota and the region benefit by having more profitable dairy farms with an engaged well-trained workforce to sustainably care for the cows while providing a steady supply of high-quality milk and dairy-beef.
Project supported by Smith-Lever (3b&c) funds.
