The Dairy Podcast Show -  #39 - Securing the future: addressing heat stress in dry cows and calves

Securing the next generation of cows in the future stands as one of the most significant responsibilities of dairy farmers in the present. As we approach the summer season, it becomes crucial to address the challenges of heat stress, considering it can alter the future of our productions by affecting both our dry cows and calves. In this episode, Dr. Geoffrey Dahl sheds light on the impact of heat stress on dry cows and calves, the beginning of the journey towards ensuring the future of our dairy farms, including the long-term negative effects on the productivity of calves throughout their lives, the associated economic ramifications, the implementation of smart soaker systems, and the implications of heat stress on heifers.

 What you'll learn: 

1. The effects of heat stress on calves

2. Heat stress on heifers

3. When do we need to cool down dry cows?

4. Traditional sprinklers vs. smart sprinklers

5. The effects of heat stress and photoperiod on colostrum

6. Investment return on cooling systems

7. Milk production improvement programs in developing countries

Meet the guest:

Dr. Geoffrey Dahl

Experience

      ○ Current: Professor and Harriet B. Weeks Professorship Endowed Chair, University of Florida

      ○ Past: previously Chair of the Department for 12 years; prior faculty jobs at the University of Illinois and the University of Maryland

Background

       ○ Ph.D., Animal Science (Michigan State University)

       ○Dairy Science (Virginia Polytechnic Institute & State University)

       ○ B.Sc., Animal Science (University of Massachusetts)

Hobby: Reading.

Favorite book, movie or TV series: Currently watching Ted Lasso

Favorite quote: "Success is not final, failure is not fatal; it's the courage to continue that counts." –  Winston Churchill

A tip for success: Persistence beats potential.