December 27, 2022
• Milk production in the U.S. during November totaled 18.3 billion pounds, up 1.3% from a year earlier, according to USDA’s Milk Production report. It marked the fifth consecutive month of year-over-year milk production gains. Higher cow numbers and gains in milk per cow were both responsible for the boost in total production.
• The Midwest saw the most growth in milk production during November. Production was up in Wisconsin, Michigan, Minnesota, Iowa, and South Dakota. The Mount Rushmore State was up nearly 11%. Texas continued to build on its milk production and was up another 6.3%.
• A Colorado business’ alfalfa cubes are being recalled. They are suspected of causing botulism in a number of horses.
• Keep these factors in mind when determining beef cow nutrient requirements this winter.
• Here’s everything you need to know about reindeer.
December 20, 2022
• Why are cow-calf producers slow to adopt science-proven technology?
• Do liquid fertilizers have a role in hay production? Here’s a take from Mississippi State University’s Rocky Lemus.
• The USDA recently released results from its 2021 Organic Survey. Sales of organic products were up 13% over 2019.
• Registration is open for the Heart of America Grazing Conference, which is scheduled for February 20 and 21 in Ferdinand, Ind.
• Farming remains among the most dangerous jobs in the U.S. with an annual fatality rate of 26 per 100,000 persons compared to 3.3 per 100,000 persons overall.
December 13, 2022
• World exports of U.S. alfalfa hay totaled 220,246 metric tons (MT) during October, according to USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service. This total was down about 30,000 MT from a year ago and 28,000 MT below the previous month. Year-to-date through October, total alfalfa exports are running about 2% ahead of 2021.
• China imported 147,978 MT of U.S. alfalfa during October, which was down from 2021 and the previous month. Through October, exports of alfalfa hay to China are running about 7% ahead of last year.
• Penn State University has developed a new fact sheet that outlines recommendations for grazing cover crops in cropping systems.
• Here’s 11 ways to reduce hay waste this winter.
• Consider these factors when buying hay.
December 6, 2022
• A long drought has calving implications.
• The Noble Research Institute is offering a ranch employee safety guide.
• A high NDFD is possible with some high NDF forages. Here’s the explanation.
• Swath grazing has proven success in the Upper Midwest.
• According to USDA, 59% of U.S. hay acreage is still experiencing drought conditions as of the beginning of December.
