Direct-fed microbes (DFM) are live microorganisms — most commonly specific strains of bacteria or yeast — intentionally added to ruminant diets to beneficially modulate the rumen microbial ecosystem. In dairy nutrition, Bacillus spp. (e.g., Bacillus subtilis and Bacillus licheniformis) are frequently used because of their ability to produce fibrolytic, amylolytic, and proteolytic enzymes that enhance feed degradation. By influencing microbial populations and fermentation pa

The growing season is just around the corner, although it is hard to believe with the lingering cold weather here in the North Country. Now is an ideal time to review as a team what it takes to produce high-quality silage in the year ahead. Historically, silage discussions have focused on the basics: harvesting at the correct moisture, chopping at the right length, packing tightly, sealing thoroughly, and deciding whether to use an inoculant. These factors still matter, but t

Calf starter plays a critical role in supporting early growth and rumen development in calves, making it an important component of a successful heifer program. As calves transition to functional ruminants, the rumen needs to develop sufficient physical capacity and absorptive surface area to properly utilize solid feed. Through starter intake, microbial activity and volatile fatty acid production (VFA) are activated, both necessary components in the development of rumen ti

Carrying on the Miner Legacy is a privilege for those of us fortunate enough to be a small part of it.

Subclinical hypocalcemia (SCH) affects upwards of 50% of multiparous cows due to increased calcium demands around calving. Although SCH is generally viewed as undesirable, we have come to learn that short term reductions in blood calcium concentrations, like when a cow has transient SCH (low blood calcium at 1 DIM but normal at 4 DIM), may activate adaptive mechanisms that improve calcium regulation later.

We seem to be in the season of spring, but winter has been a far more "traditional" winter than we've had in the North Country in recent years. We've had long stretches of cold weather, plenty of snow, and no January thaw in 2026!

The Rumen Simulation Technique, known as RUSITEC, is a continuous in vitro system designed to simulate the rumen fermentation processes that occur in ruminants. The system uses fermentation vessels maintained at rumen-like conditions (temperature, anaerobic environment, and continuous buffer infusion).

This past January I had the opportunity to attend the GPS Dairy Consulting Bootcamp in Minneapolis, MN. During this program we were exposed to ration formulation software, consultative selling techniques, reviewed our own personality profiles and explored several topics relevant to a career in dairy nutrition consulting.

On many dairies, fiber adequacy is judged by the NDF percentage on the ration sheet. A diet containing 28-32% NDF may appear to be adequate, but some farms experience milk fat depression, declining rumination, intake variability, and signs of subacute ruminal acidosis even when total NDF appears adequate. Often the issue isn’t how much fiber is in the ration, but whether that fiber is physically effective in the rumen. Physically effective fiber, commonly referred to as peNDF

In June 2024, Dr. Heather Dann shared the Spirit of Heart’s Delight Farm with Farm Report readers. William Miner displayed the core values he expected from employees of his farm in the early 1900’s through a sign that hung outside the Storehouse No.1 building that read: The Spirit of Heart’s Delight Farm Do right because it is the right thing to do. Be courteous: you thereby honor yourself. Be industrious: otherwise you cannot respect yourself. Be efficient thus gaining the r