WHAT'S HAPPENING ON THE FARM

Happy National Dairy Month! Despite what seems like constant rainy weather, we were able to take advantage of a few dry days to begin our first cutting of the season. During the last week of May our team successfully completed and covered the first haylage bunk after two long days of chopping. We are currently collaborating closely with our nutritionist to adjust some rations. We are currently feeding from both the conventional and BMR corn silage bunks from 2023. While not ideal, we're focused on utilizing the available feed as effectively as possible.

Summer students help dairy staff to put tires on our 1st cut Milk cow haylage. We put silo stop orange vapor barrier down first and then the white layer that has a fiber membrane in it that helps to prevent birds and other small animals from poking holes in it. Tires — placed so that they are tight against each other — are placed on top to prevent air gaps.

With warmer weather settling in we’ve also seen an increase in mastitis cases. It’s a good reminder of the importance of strong communication and a good chance for some extra training among all employees and students working with the herd. We’re emphasizing proper stall cleaning procedures and thorough teat sanitation in the parlor before and after each milking session to support udder health.

Earlier this month we hosted one of our annual events: Farm Days for Fifth Graders! During a three-day period hundreds of students from across the North Country visited Miner Institute for a day of hands-on dairy education. Students rotated through stations such as milking, field equipment, the calf barn, and cow nutrition. The most popular stop, as always, was the cannulated cow station, where students learned about the ruminant digestive system and even had the chance to feel inside one of our cannulated cows.

We also welcomed our 2025 class of Summer Experience students in mid-May. This year’s interns in Farm Management — Alayna, Connor, Rachel, and Will — are going to spend the summer rotating through key areas of dairy operations, including milking, calf care, herd management, field crops, and feeding. Each intern is also preparing to show a heifer at the Clinton County Fair in July. They are responsible for halter training, washing, clipping, and fitting their animals for the show.

We’re looking forward to a busy and productive summer season ahead!

— Nicole Roblero

nstover@whminer.com