Dairy experts have estimated that it takes a dairy cow between one and two lactations to fully pay back the cost needed to raise the animal. An animal’s economic return becomes more clear and spurs many operations to retain older cows. Cows in at least their third lactation also produce more milk and no longer need the nutritional growing requirements their younger counterparts require.
A low herd turnover rate also means a lesser need to raise heifers, substantially reducing operating costs (and the farm’s environmental footprint). A more mature herd can capitalize on production efficiency, particularly during times when input costs skyrocket and forage resources are becoming increasingly tougher to come by.
Featured
-
Food and Agriculture Contribute $9 Trillion to U.S. EconomyMarch 23, 2023
-
Fertilizer Prices Continue to DeclineMarch 23, 2023
-
12 Veterinary-Recommended Ways to Prevent Disease in FeedlotsMarch 23, 2023
-
More Corn and Wheat Acres Expected in 2023March 24, 2023
-
Measuring Feed Cost Changes on Dairy OperationsMarch 24, 2023