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Many dairy producers who switch a Holstein herd to a grass-based system have great results crossing to Jerseys, resulting in cows with increased hybrid vigor. Farmers who get a premium for components may do well with New Zealand genetics. Probert adds that before exploring New Zealand genetics of any breed, producers should be aware that much of the milk in that country is produced into powdered milk, which has led to genetic selection for milk solids content and selection against fluid volume. Heins notes that producers who want to stick with Holsteins on grass-based diets may want to explore New Zealand Friesians, which have been bred over generations for being a smaller animal, efficient on grass and low-input operations, having good body condition and high fertility.
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Heins says this choice simply depends on what works best on an individual farm.Īlthough many graziers choose crossbreds for their increased fertility, disease resistance and calving ease, some still prefer purebred Holsteins for their milk volume. He notes that although fertility is a top priority on seasonal dairies, some grazing operations add a second calving season to reduce the number of cows culled for not being bred on the first try. “It’s best to think about it in terms of the amount of milk per acre rather than just production numbers,” he says.Īlthough there is no type of cow that works best in all pasture-based systems, the cow genetically designed to most efficiently convert forages into milk will usually bring the highest profits.Īccording to Heins, the top traits to breed for in grazing cows are fertility and longevity, followed by feet and legs. Many traits, such as good udder health, longevity and feet and legs are, of course, important – no matter if the cows are housed in a conventional dairy barn or out on pasture.īradley Heins, associate professor of organic dairy production with the University of Minnesota, says when choosing genetics for a grazing herd, producers should focus on profitability more than production. He says many graziers also believe smaller animals have an easier time dealing with heat stress and are typically more mobile than their larger counterparts.
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“Many pasture-based producers prefer smaller cows that tend to do less damage to grass paddocks, especially during wetter weather,” Probert says. Are you getting a premium for components, or is your primary goal high production of fluid milk?īody size is another important trait to consider for many pasture-based dairies. Probert says another very important thing to take into consideration is how your milk is marketed. For example, a seasonal dairy’s top priority should be fertility. Probert says a discussion on what genetics to use for a grazing herd really needs to start with a look at what type of system the farm uses. “No single ideal pasture-based cow exists,” says Ted Probert, regional dairy specialist with the University of Missouri Extension. What is the best way to go about choosing genetics for your grazing herd?