FROM THE FARM REPORT: WHAT'S HAPPENING ON THE FARM
- Nicole Roblero
- 2 hours ago
- 2 min read
Our cows have maintained strong production levels, averaging approximately 102 pounds of milk per cow per day. Milk composition remains consistent, with 4.3% fat and 3.2% protein, which aligns with our typical herd performance.
Over the past few months we’ve faced ongoing challenges with mastitis. Milk cultures from affected cows identified the primary pathogens as Klebsiella and Escherichia coli, which are environmental bacteria commonly found in contaminated water, bedding, and manure. Given the contagious nature of these infections, we maintain our strict control measures of cows under mastitis evaluation or treatment being milked in the final group to minimize the risk of spreading bacteria through the milking system.
In the milking parlor we recently transitioned from our foaming iodine dip system to a new Knight Chlorine Dioxide mixing system. This is now used as both a pre-dip and post-dip during milking. We expect the new solution to provide improved teat coverage and a better seal on teat ends after milking, reducing bacterial entry into freshly opened teat canals.
To enhance cow comfort and hygiene we continue to prioritize bedding management. Each Monday, the sawdust barn is rebedded with fresh material mixed with Actisan 360 which helps absorb moisture, balance pH levels, and suppress environmental bacteria such as Klebsiella and E. coli. Our sand barn is groomed several times per week and rebedded every Tuesday. In addition, all stalls are cleaned of manure and debris at least three times daily to maintain cleanliness and reduce bacterial load.
As colder weather approaches, we are preparing for temperature fluctuations and increased wind exposure in the barns. This seasonal change often coincides with a rise in pneumonia cases, particularly among heifers and mature cows. Our team remains vigilant in identifying and treating affected animals promptly while taking preventive steps to limit the spread of respiratory disease throughout the herd.
— Nicole Roblero