Learn the latest in dairy nutrition and management by attending the 2024 Four-State Dairy Nutrition Management Conference at the Grand River Center in Dubuque on June 5 and 6. The conference will feature the latest information to improve productivity and profits.
“Dairy farmers and the industry can expect timely topics and discussions over the two days,” said Larry Tranel, dairy specialist with Iowa State University Extension & Outreach and planning committee member. “This is a great opportunity to learn more about a variety of topics, from dairy nutrition to reproduction, and to network with others in the industry.”
Balchem Chemical Company will host a pre-conference symposium focused on amino acid nutrition. Mark Hannigan from Virginia Tech explains the bioavailability of amino acids. Alex Hristov of Penn State University will speak on histamine as a limiting amino acid, and Zhang Li of Ohio State University will discuss cow response to lysine. Jose Santos from Florida State University will help participants learn about the amino acid balance of cows during early lactation.
Among the four speakers at the state conference, Mike VandeHaar of Michigan State University will speak on feeding and managing cattle for high productivity and health. Bill Weiss from Ohio State University will speak on feeding to achieve higher productivity, and Jose Santos will speak on feeding to prevent mineral-related diseases during early lactation.
The other general session will feature Rick Grant from Miner Research Institute, who will discuss the optimal ratios of corn silage to alfalfa and grass in dairy rations, Alex Hristiv will explain how feeding strategies can reduce milk’s carbon footprint, and Luiz Ferraretto from the University of Wisconsin will explain how different physical and chemical properties of forages affect ration performance.
Select breakout topic
- Balance milk protein and milk fat in the lactation diet.
- Understanding Ketosis: Beyond the Standard and Ahead of the Storm.
- Feed strategically throughout the lactation period to promote breast milk and health.
- Responding to overcrowding and prescribed rationing.
- The effect of dry matter intake during the transition period on uterine health and fertility.
- Fatty acid supplementation strategies for early lactating cows.
- Optimizing IVP embryo transfer in dairy herds.
- Strategies to improve heifer reproductive performance and reduce heifer rearing costs.
Post-conference symposium
At Perdue Animal Nutrition’s post-conference symposium, Geoffrey Zanton of the USDA Dairy Feed Research Center will discuss the latest research on the response of dairy cows to protein and amino acid supplementation. Kein Harvatine from Pennsylvania State University spoke on the importance of de novo fatty acids in promoting milk fat synthesis, and Adam Lock from Michigan State University provided insight into the importance of preformed fatty acids in promoting milk fat synthesis. Masu.
In addition to the educational program, there will be a trade show with over 40 companies showcasing their latest products, an evening reception and plenty of time to network with other attendees. Continuing education units are available.
Registration details
The conference is a collaborative venture between Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, University of Illinois Extension, University of Minnesota Extension and University of Wisconsin Extension.
Registration is $195 per person until May 20 and $225 thereafter. Same-day registration is also available.
Register online by visiting the Four-State Dairy registration page at fourstatedairy.org/registration.html.
For more information, contact Fred M. Hall of Northwest Iowa at 712-737-4230. [email protected]; Northeast Iowa, Jennifer Bentley, 563-382-2949 or [email protected]east central Iowa, Larry Tranel, 563-583-6496 or [email protected]In Ames, Gayle Carpenter, 515-294-9085 or [email protected]
