Brief Summary of Minutes of Annual Meeting

Objective 1: To analyze management and nutrition strategies for replacement heifers as they pertain to production and profitability (heifers). Commercial Rearing of Dairy Heifers Program focus for the University of Minnesota Calf and Heifer Research and Extension Facility (CHREF) during the project period 2007-2013 has been with contract raising commercial dairy heifer calves from 3 dairies representing 2,000 dairy cows. Calves are picked-up twice weekly at 2-4 days of age and contract raised until 6 months of age. All calves receive 3 feedings of colostrum by 24 hours of age. In the current NC project period data has been collected from over 6,000 at the CHREF. One of the unique aspects of the project is the development of Excel spreadsheets for each dairy tracking every calf that enters and leaves CHREF are followed back to the dairies for first lactation production data. An average of 83% of the dairy heifers completed a first lactation. In this project period, calves involved in 17 milk replacer nursery studies (1,269) averaged 207 kg BW, 115 cm hip height and 0.87 kg/day gain by 6 months of age. Those that entered the milking herd averaged 716 days of age at first calving and 12,225 kg Std ME milk. A goal of doubling initial BW and gaining at least 10 cm frame growth by 2 months of age has been achieved with the standard program when calf starter (CS) intake was optimal.

Feeding 20:20 vs. 24:18 or 28:16 MR at varying rates indicated the increase in feeding rate and feeding the 28:16 showed good response from d 1 to 14 but reducing the MR feeding rate and CP intake deceased ADG from d 15 to 28 without enhancing CS intake. Feeding a 20:20 MR at 0.68 kg/d for at least 28 days increased 56 d calf performance. Offering a high protein MR at 0.68 kg/d and balancing for amino acids did not affect calf performance which was surprising. Partially replacing all milk protein in MR with bovine animal plasma, hydrolzyzed wheat gluten, wheat protein isolate or peptide powder gave acceptable calf performances in a number of studies. Generally nursery calf performance in the summer months was lower than during other times of the year. Use of sodium butyrate in non-medicated MR (0.3%) and CS (0.33%) showed benefits in the summer months. Supplementing essential oils into a non-medicated MR resulted in similar calf performance compared to those fed a medicated MR and CS with rumensin (R). Supplementing natural yeast or various acids in MR and CS did not enhance calf performance.

A control MR program with texturized CS containing 0, 33, 49.5, or 66 mg/kg R resulted in similar ADG but decreasing CS intake. The 49.5 mg/kg level is now preferred by the industry. Glycerol at 3 or 6% successfully replaced corn in pelleted nursery diets and post weaning grain mixes. Replacing steam flaked corn with whole corn, air or flame roasted corn in CS gave good calf performance. Studies have allowed for an improved 18% CP CS with digestible fiber levels that enhanced DMI. An automatic calf feeding system for group feeding calves was successfully implemented. Heritability estimates of performance and health traits were analyzed in 6,390 AI sire-identified heifer calves raised at CHREF. Performance traits to 2 months of age were moderately heritable (0.25 to 0.37) but health traits had low heritabilities (0.01 to 0.11).

Grouping calves in the nursery prior to moving to the grower pens was not advantageous. Postweaning (PW) group-fed calves were offered CS then transitioned to a control limit fed 16% CP whole corn and pelleted grain mix (GM) with access to free choice hay from 9 to 25 wk of-age. Feeding different GM with or without hay for 14 d in group pens after moving from individual pens did not affect heifer performance. Feeding DM to calves PW at 3 or 2.7% of BW resulted in acceptable performances. Grain mixes containing 1% urea (0.024 kg/d) resulted in lower gains during d 1 to 28 vs. control or GM containing rumen fermentation enhancer. Feeding a TMR of ensiled hay, distillers grains and sweet corn cannery waste resulted in a lower cost alternative feed for 3 to 6 mth old heifer calves. Expected ADG by heifer calves PW from 9 to 25 wk of age has been 1 to 1.1 kg/day with DMI of 3% of BW.

Colostrum and Colostrum Replacer Colostrum replacer (based on dehydrated colostrum) provides adequate immunity based on blood IgG concentration. Immunoglobulin G uptake was not affected in calves born of cows fed anionic salts compared to cows not fed anionic salts. Adding sodium bicarbonate to colostrum replacer increased uptake of IgG compared to calves not fed sodium bicarbonate. A study evaluating the effects of kelp meal on calf starter intake was conducted. Results indicated that calves do not prefer the taste of kelp. When given a choice, the calves on this experiment preferred the control (0 kelp) over the 30g or 60 g kelp treatments. Colostrum replacer (based on dehydrated colostrum) provides adequate immunity based on blood IgG concentration. Adding sodium bicarbonate to colostrum replacer did not increase uptake of IgG in this experiment. This does not agree with previous research from our laboratory where added sodium bicarbonate improved IgG uptake. If colostrum replacer is fed in 1 dose than 30 g of NaHCO3 is beneficial in enhancing IgG uptake. However, if 2 doses are fed, NaHCO3 is not beneficial in enhancing IgG uptake. These data suggest that how the dam is fed may impact IgG uptake in the calf. Neither chlortetracycline or lasalocid or the combination proved beneficial to dairy heifer performance.

Feeding Biodiesel Co-products Feeding fat from distillers grain resulted in slightly smaller frame size, and greater BCS in growing dairy heifer diets. But ADG and feed efficiency were similar between treatments. Including fat from DDGS in growing heifer diets, while providing for recommended energy requirements, results in similar body growth compared to feeding concentrates containing corn and soybean meal. Dietary fat from DDGS can be used in replacement of starch from corn in diet of growing dairy heifers and maintain energy status. Feeding increased fat from DDGS may decrease the body weight at puberty, but can be fed as a replacement for starch from corn as an energy source for pre-pubertal heifers without detriment to first lactation milk production.

Forage and Pasture Inclusion in Heifer Rearing Using pasture as the primary source of nutrition was compared to conventional diet and rearing in confined facilities. Pregnant heifers on pasture had increased (P = 0.04) average dairy gain, and reduced (P = .001) body condition score while skeletal growth rates as measured by whither height and hip height, were similar to conventionally fed heifers. Projected milk and fat yields did not differ while protein yields were increased (P = 0.04) by pasture. While pasture reduces body condition score, it can be used in pregnant heifers without detrimental effects on skeletal development or milk production.

It appears there are no clear advantages or disadvantages for sand, straw, or wood shavings as bedding materials with respect to calf growth, general health and hide contamination during moderate summer conditions in the Midwest. However, fly breeding and fly counts on calves are affected such that fly control is more critical when using straw.

Although ensiled forages are commonly included in diets of growing dairy heifers, little research has been conducted to evaluate feeding baleage as a primary forage source. Heifers fed hay were 6.7 kg heavier than heifers fed baleage at the conclusion of the study. Heifers fed hay also gained 0.63 kg/d compared to 0.56 kg/d for heifers fed baleage. Overall, heifers fed hay consumed 0.30 kg more DM/d than baleage, resulting in a tendency for a 5.4% improvement in gain to feed ratios for hay compared to baleage. In summary, feeding baleage decreased BW gain, but did not alter skeletal growth or rumen parameters in prepubertal dairy heifers.

Feeding strategies that improve the growth and feed efficiency of dairy heifers can reduce costs to farmers when raising these animals. A study was conducted to evaluate the impact of increasing dietary grain:forage ratio on growth, dry matter intake (DMI), and feed efficiency of prepubertal dairy heifers. The ADG, DMI, feed efficiency, and skeletal growth were improved during the treatment period for 80% compared with 60% and 40% grain. Feed efficiency was improved for heifers fed 60% compared to 80% on d 84 of the common grain feeding period, with 60% averaging 0.166 compared to 0.125 kg ADG/kg DMI for 80%. Intake of total NDF was greater for 80% during the treatment period, but total NDF intake was greater for 40% on d 84 and 98 of the common period. Skeletal growth and BCS were similar between treatments during the common period from d 56 to 112. Dairy heifers had greater ADG when fed high amounts of grain, but ADG and feed efficiency were reduced compared with heifers fed moderate to low amounts of grain after switching to a high-forage diet.

Objective 2: To optimize lactating and dry cow decision-making as it relates to animal health, nutrient utilization, milk production, reproduction, and profitability (cows). Utilization of Biodiesel Co-products Michigan State researchers conducted a meta-analysis of a large database showing that inclusion of corn distillers dried grains per se did not affect fat-corrected milk yield, unadjusted milk yield, or milk fat or protein percentage. However, when the fermentability of rations was factored into consideration (e.g., a more fermentable forage-base, greater proportion of grain, or greater fermentability of grain) with added corn distillers grains then fat-corrected milk yield declined compared with when distillers grains was included in less fermentable rations.

At South Dakota, replacing dietary starch from corn with non-forage fiber from distillers grains and soyhulls did not affect ruminal and total tract digestibility of dry matter, organic matter, and crude protein, however, it did increase ruminal and total tract digestibility of neutral detergent fiber and acid detergent fiber.

The addition of a low-fat DDGS up to 30% of the diet did not affect milk production, however milk protein percentage decreased at the highest inclusion level as a result of a potential lysine deficiency. Dairy cows can be fed diets with lower starch concentrations that produce similar milk production with less feed. This improves profitability per cow by increasing income over feed costs. New distillers grains products available commercially have a wide range of rumen protein degradabilities. Intestinal digestibility of these products exceeded 92% demonstrating protein quality similar to protein products. Rumen-degradable protein was greater in wet than dried distillers grains, and increased when the inclusion of solubles in the distillers grains increased. Intestinal digestible protein was primarily affected by form and not by the addition of solubles.

The addition of a reduced-fat DDGS or regular DDGS did not affect intake or milk production in early lactation, however milk protein yield increased when DDGS was included in the diets. Lower dietary lysine provided in the DDGS diets did not correspond to lower milk protein yield. The addition of DDGS as a replacement for ground corn or soybean feedstuffs at either a high or low level of forage in the diet did not affect milk production nor milk composition of lactating dairy cows. The concentration of forage in the diet affected milk production and milk composition, but the concentration of DDGS in the diet had no effect. The addition of DDGS as a replacement for ground corn or soybean feedstuffs alters rumen fermentation and nutrient digestibility at a low forage level compared to a high forage diet. Fiber digestibility of DDGS is lower when fed in a low forage diet. Higher concentrations of forage fiber may have a positive associative effect on the fiber digestibility of DDGS.

The forage concentration of the ration explained the sorting behavior by lactating dairy cows. Feeding distillers grains had little effect on the sorting behavior by lactating dairy cows. Estimates of physically effective fiber of the total mixed ration by the Z-box method are similar to that of the dry sieving method. Holstein dairy cows fed increasing forage to concentrate ratios in conjunction with canola meal as the primary protein source did not affect milk yield, however, DMI decreased with increasing forage in the diet resulting in improved feed efficiency. Cows fed increasing concentrations of metabolizable protein lysine supply linearly increased in milk protein yield, energy-corrected milk, and feed efficiency.

Members at University of Nebraska conducted a series of experiments that evaluated the use and inclusion rate of corn milling co-products. The aim of this research was to determine whether dairy cow can consume co-products at very high levels and maintain normal milk yield and composition. Our working hypothesis for these experiments was that feed intake would be equal or improved and that milk production would not be negatively affected when feeding corn milling co-product. Through this work we have determined that dairy cows may consume as much as 30% of the diet as DDGS and milk yield or composition is either maintained or improved.

Utilization of by-product and alternative feeds for dairy cows A series of experiments were conducted feeding dietary coconut oil (a natural source of mainly medium chain fatty acids) to lactating dairy cows to reduce enteric methane production. Overall, coconut oil feeding reduced methane emissions. However, feeding greater than 3.3% of the diet dry as coconut oil also reduced feed intake, milk yield, and percentages of milk fat and lactose; whereas, feeding 1.0% was not very effective.

Two experiments were conducted looking at the effects of brown mid-rib corn silage in lactating cow diets. Experiment 1 was conducted to determine the effects of corn silage (CS) hybrids and quality of alfalfa hay (AH) in high-forage dairy diets on N utilization, ruminal fermentation, and lactational performance by early-lactating dairy cows. Within square, cows were randomly assigned to a sequence of 4 diets: CCS with FAH, CCS with HAH, BMR with FAH, and BMR with HAH. Intake of DM and milk yield did not differ in response to CS hybrids or AH quality. Although feeding BMR-based diets decreased urinary N output by 24%, it did not affect fecal N output. Feeding HAH decreased urinary N output by 15% but increased fecal N output by 20%. Nitrogen efficiency [milk N (g/d)/intake N (g/d)] tended to increase for BMR treatments. Ruminal ammonia-N concentration was lower for cows fed BMR-based diets than for those fed CCS-based diets but was not affected by quality of AH. Feeding BMR-based diets or HAH decreased milk urea N concentration by 23 or 15%, respectively, compared with CCS-based diets or FAH. Total volatile fatty acid concentration increased with HAH but was not influenced by CS hybrids. Feeding BMR-based diets decreased urinary N-to-fecal N ratio (UN:FN), and it was further reduced by feeding HAH. Although cows fed the BMR-based diets tended to increase milk N-to-manure N ratio, the quality of AH did not affect the ratio.

Experiment 2 was conducted to test a hypothesis that lactating dairy cows fed 35% brown midrib (BMR) corn silage and 25% alfalfa hay (dry matter (DM) basis) would consume more DM around peak lactation compared with those fed conventional corn silage (CS), resulting in longer peak milk production. Two dietary treatments were assessed in a completely randomized design: total mixed ration based on conventional CS (CCS) and total mixed ration based on BMR silage. Through peak lactation (160 DIM), DM intake was not different between dietary treatments, whereas DM intake post-peak lactation (61180 DIM) tended to increase by feeding the BMR diet compared with the CCS diet (25.8 vs. 24.7 kg/d). Cows fed the BMR diet tended to lose less body weight through peak lactation compared with those fed the CCS diet (-0.22 vs. -0.52 kg/d). Although milk yield was not different between dietary treatments through peak lactation, milk yield post-peak lactation increased by feeding the BMR diet compared with the CCS diet (41.0 vs. 38.8 kg/d). Feeding BMR silage with a high dietary concentration of alfalfa hay maintained more body weight, but did not affect milk production through peak lactation; however, cows fed the BMR diet post-peak lactation consumed more feed and maintained longer peak milk yield, leading to greater overall milk production and milk protein yield.

Field peas can be fed up to 12% of the diet without negatively affecting production, but at higher levels of inclusion (24 and 36%), dry matter intake, milk production, and milk protein was decreased.

Canola meal can replace distillers grains as a source of protein in high producing dairy cows diets without any significant effect on DMI, milk production, and milk composition. Holstein dairy cows fed increasing forage to concentrate ratios in conjunction with canola meal as the primary protein source did not affect milk yield, however, DMI decreased with increasing forage in the diet resulting in improved feed efficiency. Cows fed increasing concentrations of metabolizable protein lysine supply linearly increased in milk protein yield, energy-corrected milk, and feed efficiency.

The forage concentration of the ration explained the sorting behavior by lactating dairy cows. Feeding distillers grains had little effect on the sorting behavior by lactating dairy cows. Estimates of physically effective fiber of the total mixed ration by the Z-box method are similar to that of the dry sieving method.

Ferrous (Fe2+) iron is the common valence in drinking water and it may jeopardize Fe status and potentially cause toxicity. In short-term studies infusing about 1,000 mg of ferrous iron post-ruminally to mid-lactation dairy cows as a pulsed dose did not affect blood serum Fe, iron-binding capacity, percent Fe saturation, a-tocopherol, or copper concentrations, or liver iron, copper and zinc. In drinking water preference studies with lactating dairy cows ferrous iron concentrations greater than 4 ppm reduced consumption of free drinking water intake.

Cow comfort and well being Rubber flooring in the feed alley for lactating cows may impact production, especially components, in first parity. Rubber flooring may affect cows surviving first lactation differently than those who do not. Future work with more cows is needed to ascertain results for traits like SCS and days open that inherently have higher environmental variation. Cortisol did not indicate an acute stress at any time in the first lactation, when evaluated by treatment or by a treatment for a condition that may lead to lameness in that lactation. The number of times that cows were given therapy for hoof or leg conditions was greater for cows housed on concrete. Changes in lymphocyte and total white blood cell counts in cows housed on concrete indicated chronic inflammation, but acute phase proteins did not. Flooring tends to affect cow hoof health, alters immune cell counts and influences production and herdlife. However, cost of rubber flooring to enhance cow comfort, which was not directly measured in this work, may not be justified solely in terms of yields and herdlife.

Objective 3: To evaluate system components and integration of information into decision-support tools and whole farm analyses to improve efficiency, control variation, and enhance profitability, and environmental sustainability (whole farm) Decision Tools for Dairy Producers DairyVIP, a model that optimizes breeding and culling decisions, was used to study the effect of changing milk prices on optimal culling decisions and rule-of-thumb decisions like culling open cows when their daily milk production does not cover variable cost anymore. Contrary to common belief and practice, lower milk prices should reduce open cow culling. The Dairy Business Analysis Project (DBAP) has been continued with a survey of the 2008 data. Twelve dairy farms located in Florida and Georgia had contributed complete financial and production data by the end of September 2009. All DBAP data (1995-2008) are stored in a SAS database that allows for easy further analysis. For example, data from DBAP was used to calculate the weighted cost of capital on dairy farms in Florida.

A large linear programming model (DairyPLAN) was developed to study optimal and non-optimal decisions regarding the use of type of semen (conventional, sexed, beef), culling decisions, heifer purchase decisions, and calf keep decisions. Seasonality can be simulated, which was used to study the economic value of using in-vitro fertilized embryos in cows to increase pregnancy rates under heat stress conditions in the summer. More recently, the value of genomic testing has been evaluated. The advantage of linear programming is that individual (group) decisions can be optimized while herd constraints may be implemented. For example, a closed herd without purchase of animals can be modeled. Results of these analyses have shown that herd constraints affect optimal decisions and should be considered. In particular, the use of sexed and beef semen could be advantageous while embryo transfer in the summer could be profitable. A simple spreadsheet (DairyCALC) has been developed to simulate the daily technical and economic performance of young stock and cows in parities 1 to 4+. Key are the virtually immediate results from changes in inputs. The results of two sets of inputs can be compared side by side. There is a screen with a limited set of inputs and a screen with an extended set of inputs, depending on user preference. The spreadsheet has been used to evaluate the economics of sexed semen, stocking density, Herd Navigator, and genomic testing.

Lactation records received from DRMS in Raleigh, NC, were analyzed for risk of culling with specific disposal reasons. Results showed risks by parity, dim, and pregnancy status. The data set was also analyzed for the effect of days open on fresh cow culling in the subsequent parity. Ninety percent of the farms showed increased risks of culling and death with greater days open. Regression results showed approximately $0.25 extra cost per day open due to increased culling and disease. DHIA data analysis is continued to document the amount of seasonality in dairy cattle production in the Southeast US.

Assessing Dairy Producer Preferences and Needs Dairy producer preferences for sources of advice and information, and the educational subject and delivery method priorities were identified in a state-wide 15 page mail survey. Dairy producers most valued dairy information from veterinarians, a person with general knowledge about many topics, and articles in dairy magazines. The 20 practices with the highest educational scores were in the areas of mastitis and milk quality, reproductive management, nutrition and feeding, and transition cow management. Most survey respondents were willing to travel <25 miles and most were not willing to pay for attending an educational event. Producers prioritized educational events in this order: half day session, field days, hands-on workshops, evening seminars, and specialized herd management training.

Decision Support for Sustainable Practices As herd size continues to increase globally, new technology that allows NE farmers to remain sustainable is greatly desired. Automatic milking systems (AMS) represent the most recent technology available by offering improved management and production efficiency, quality of life and attractiveness to potential successors. However, the financial investment is substantial (~$minimum of $200,000 500,000) and farmers lack decision-making tools regarding the challenges and opportunities associated with the transition from conventional to AMS. This survey will help to identify the level of interest in AMS technology and the topics that are of most interest to them. Results will also serve as the basis for education programs designed to provide farmers with the decision-making tools required to estimate and quantify economic impacts, performance outcomes and lifestyle changes associated with AMS.

Although the Grazing Merit Preference Index (GM) was closely correlated to USDA Lifetime Net Merit Dollar (NM$) there was a change in rank among the bulls. This is further compounded by the fact that the weights placed upon each trait differ significantly from GM to NM$. This leads to a possible conclusion that while the current bulls that rank highest for NM$ index are also bulls that score high in GM, it is possibly a coincidence and a tendency that may or may not continue. While popular vote to select index weights may not be the best course of action, scientifically; responses indicate that there may be a need for modifications to NM$ to create a comparable index more appropriate for use by graziers. Work continues to determine appropriate economic weights for a grazing merit index.

Whole Farm Environmental Assessment Studies have been completed on nutrient management based on data from four CT dairy farms over 5 years for individual fields. One such study evaluates the implementation of nutrient management plans (NMPs) by comparing farmers reported practices with recommended manure and fertilizer management, and the feasibility of using soil and corn tissue tests to document improvements in such management (Tao et al., 2010). A second study estimated changes in costs of manure handling, costs of the fertilizer replacement value of manure, and expected changes in net revenues associated with the implementation of NMPs.

New-England dairy farm data for 1980-2011, collected and summarized by the Farm Credit Bureau, has been assembled. Njuki et al. (2011b, 2012a, 2012b) have estimated a directional distance function model to measure the amount of pollution originating from these dairy farms. The pollution emanating from methane (CH4), nitrous oxide (N2O), carbon dioxide (CO2) and particulate matter was then converted to a carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e) and aggregated in order to obtain the corresponding undesirable output.

Short-term Outcomes: A total of 52 peer reviewed, journal articles; 98 abstracts; 26 presentations; 45 extension publications and tools, 9 popular press articles, and 5 theses or dissertations have been produced over the last six years as results of collaborative research.

Outputs: The CHREF model with an all-in all out system in a naturally ventilated curtain side-wall barn has been of interest to producers and agricultural professionals with many requests for visits and building plans. Pre- and post weaning calf benchmarks for feed intake and growth parameters from 2 to 4 days up to 6 months of age provide useful tools for commercial dairies and the dairy industry.

Calves can meet their growth goals up to 2 months of age by offering an economical conventional milk replacer program as long as calf starter intake is optimal. Offering alternative feeding strategies for pre - and post weaned calves provides options that meet individual producer preferences. Management systems used at CHREF are available that help to maintain an average mortality rate of 1.5 to 2%.

Calves fed Maternal Colostrum (MC) achieved greater levels of Total Serum Protein and IgG than calves fed Maternal Colostrum plus serum colostrum derived supplement (MCS). In addition, calves fed MC experienced lower incidence of abnormal respiratory scores than calves fed MCS. The results of this on-farm study demonstrated that in this case, adding colostrum supplement to the maternal colostrum did not achieve any positive effect on performance and health parameters of dairy calves. In consequence, the dairy operators decided to discontinue the use of the colostrum supplement with an annual saving of $85,262 for one dairy alone. This type of savings is equivalent to 2.2 average dairy workers' annual salary.

The lower ratio of UN:FN with a higher ratio of milk N-to-manure N ratio for the BMR-based diets indicates that feeding BMR may reduce manure ammonia-N by reducing excretion of urinary N and increasing secretion of milk N per unit of manure N excreted.

As a result of the research conducted on several feedstuffs commonly used in the organic dairy industry such as kelp meal, flaxseed meal, whole flaxseed, and liquid molasses, organic dairy farmers in the Northeast are now able to make informed decisions about how much to feed or whether they should include these specific ingredients in their dairy diets.

Much of the research has focused on application of the compost bedded pack barn in Kentucky. The economic impact of a compost bedded pack barn for an average (85 cows) dairy is estimated at an additional income of $18,000 annually with a potential capital investment savings of $60,000 per farm compared to freestall housing. With approximately 80 dairies in Kentucky now managing compost barns, the economic impact is $1,440,000 annually with $4,800,000 in capital savings.

More than 30,000 decision support tool users of online decision support tools provided at the University of Wisconsin Dairy Management Website (DairyMGT.info).

Results from modeling using the developed modeling tools continue to educate dairy producers and their advisors as evidenced by case studies with particular partners and speaking invitations.

Economic models have been used to estimate technical and environmental efficiency of New England Dairy farms. The comprehensive analysis of NMP's for dairy farms is both agronomic and economic in scope, researchers have worked directly with CT farms to produce a comprehensive package of extension materials for farmers along with several research journal publications.

Grants received:

Land O' Lakes (in kind) -Effects of visitation on calf feed intake and performance, George Walker Milk fund $ 5,000 Saskatoon Colostrum - Feeding regimen and milk replacer addition to the diet of calves fed sodium bicarbonate in colostrum replacer -$10.000 Cargill- Milk replacer feeding and N efficency - $10,000 George Walker Milk fund- $ 14,000 Estimating colostrum quality using DHI data Lonza _$ 129,000 Niacin supplementation to prepartum cows Beede, D. K.2008-09. (for MSU Dairy Programs Group), Printing and Mailing of Michigan Dairy Review, MSU/CANR-AIC; $17,735. Beede, D. K., M. Hollmann, and W. J. Powers. 2007-09. Management tools to reduce methane and ammonia generation pre- and post-excretion from livestock farms, MSU/CANR; $30,000. Beede, D. K. 2007-08. Manipulation of lactation rations to reduce methane emissions. Meadows Endowment, $150,000. Powers, W. J., D. K. Beede and others. 2007-08. Development of a National Air Quality Self-Assessment Tool (NAQSAT) for Livestock Producers. National Resource Conservation Service, Conservation Innovation Grant, $1,000,000 (for all states and partners collaborating). Hippen, A. R., K. F. Kalscheur, and D. J. Schingoethe. New uses of distillers grains products in dairy cattle feeding. May 2007 - April 2012. USDA/ARS. $315,000. Kalscheur, K. F., A.R. Hippen, and D. J. Schingoethe. Evaluation of low-fat distillers grains in dairy cow diets. June 2007 - May 2009. VeraSun Energy Corporation. $77,282. Kalscheur, K.F. Use of alternative crops in dairy cow diets. Crop Integration and Production, SD. Sept. 2010 - Aug. 2012. USDA-NIFA-SRGP. $34,000. Schingoethe, D.J., A.R. Hippen, and K.F. Kalscheur. Maximize the use of canola meal in dairy feeds: Amino acid metabolism. July 2010 - March 2013. Canola Council of Canada. $299,000. Over $360,000 have been received in the current project period from industry partners and collaborators to partially support the research at CHREF. These dollars and the contract raising income from 1,000 heifers raised annually allows for a sustainable system for applied research.

Activities: Field days (n = 2), pasture walks (n = 3), focus-group interviews (n = 3), and surveys (n = 2) were conducted to transfer research-based information to the organic dairy community in the Northeast and to assess the research and extension needs of organic dairy industry in the region. Development and maintenance of a premier website (DairyMGT.info) that provides information and scientific resources to dairy farm managers and decision makers. Four research projects were conducted to examine the effect of different management factors on health and performance of pre-weaned and post-weaned dairy calves. In addition, 24 workshops were conducted in Idaho to train dairy workers in appropriate dairy management tasks (feeding dairy calves, colostrum, health management. etc.)

Presentations 2011 Midwest ASAS/ADSA Symposium Extension Dairy - Using Computerized Tools in Dairy Management Introduction. T. Nennich, Purdue University(Invited) Exploring methods to assess the economic value of dairy cattle reproductive programs. V. E. Cabrera*, University of Wisconsin, Madison (Invited) Linear programming to evaluate the economics of reproductive efficiency and sexed semen considering herd constraints.A. De Vries*, University of Florida, Gainesville (Invited) Stochastic modeling of the economic and biological risks associated with Precision Dairy Farming investment decisions. J. M. Bewley*, University of Kentucky, Lexington

Kononoff, P.J. 2012. Overcoming nutritional challenges in dairy cattle by feeding reduced fat distillers grains. Distillers Grains Technology Council Annual Meeting. May 16, 2012. St. Louis. MO. Kononoff, P.J. and H. Paz. 2011. Practical nutrition: amino acid supply in diets containing corn silage and byproducts. Pages 15-18. Proceedings of 2011 The Pennsylvania State Universitys Department of Dairy and Animal Science annual feed industries seminar. Grantville, PA. Kononoff, P.J. and H. Paz. 2011. Practical nutrition: Amino acid supply in diets containing corn silage and byproducts. Pages 15-18. Proceedings of 2011 The Pennsylvania State Universitys Department of Dairy and Animal Science annual feed industries seminar. Grantville, PA. Ramirez-Ramirez, H.A. and P.J. Kononoff. 2011. Byproduct feeds and milk fat depression. Pages 75-79. Proceedings of 2011 The Pennsylvania State Universitys Department of Dairy and Animal Science annual feed industries seminar. Grantville, PA. Workshop: Training the Trainer in Ethanol Co-Product Storage and Utilization in Small Cattle Operations 2010 Producer Conference. Team Members: Brent Plugge, Dennis Bauer, Galen Erickson, Larry Howard, Rick Rasby, Trpy Walz, Rock, Funston, Paul Kononoff, Aaron Stalker, Sara Ellicott, Terry Klopfenstein. Milestones: To assess the research and extension needs of the organic dairy industry in the Northeast US by December 2011. This milestone was accomplished through surveys and focus-group interviews. The implementation of an automatic calf feeding system for group fed calves in 2011 allowed for direct comparison to individual housing systems. Reduce production costs, increase revenues, and improve net returns on dairy farm systems. A review article was published chronicling colostrum replacer and colostrum supplement research.

Peer Reviewed/Journal Article Goodier, G.E., J.C. Williams, K.L. OReilly, T.G. Snider, C.C. Stanley, A.H. Dolejsiova, and C.C. Williams. 2012. Effects of supplemental vitamin E and lasalocid on growth and immune responses of calves challenged with Eimeria bovis. Prof. Anim. Sci. 28:97-107. Sabbia, J. A., K. F. Kalscheur, A. D. Garcia, A. M. Gehman, and J. M. Tricarico. 2012. Soybean meal substitution with a yeast-derived microbial protein source in dairy cow diets. J. Dairy Sci. 95:5888-5900. Silva, P.R.B, J.G.N. Moraes, L.G.D. Mendonca, A.A. Scanavez, J. Fetrow, M. I. Endres, and R.C. Chebel. 2013. Effects of weekly regrouping of prepartum dairy cows on metabolic, health, reproductive, and productive parameters. J. Dairy Sci. 96:4436-4446. Husfeldt, A.W. and M.I. Endres. 2012. Association between stall surface and some animal welfare measurements on dairy herds using recycled manure solids for bedding freestalls. J. Dairy Sci. 95: 5626-5634. Husfeldt, A.W., M.I. Endres, K.A. Janni, and J.A. Salfer. 2012. Management and characteristics of recycled manure solids used for bedding in Midwest freestall dairy herds. J. Dairy Sci. 95:2195 -2203. Lobeck, K.M., M.I. Endres, K.A. Janni, S.M. Godden, and J. Fetrow. 2012. Environmental characteristics and bacterial counts in bedding and milk bulk tank of low profile cross-ventilated, naturally ventilated, and compost bedded pack dairy barns. Appl. Eng. Agric. 28: 117-128. Cabral, R.G., C.E. Chapman, and P.S. Erickson. 2013. Review: Colostrum supplements and replacers for dairy calves. Prof. Anim.Sci. 29:449-456. Quigley, J.D., A. Lago, P. Erickson, and J. Polo. 2013. Evaluation of the Brix refractometer testimate immunoglobulin G concentration in bovine colostrum. J. Dairy Sci. 96:1148- Norell, R., S. Hines, M. Chahine, T. Fife, M. E. de Haro Martí, S. Parkinson. 2013. Comparing Three Different Methods for Assessing Corn Silage Density, Journal of Extension. Vol. 51-5: Article 5RIB9. Peterson, S. E., P. Rezamand, J. E. Williams, W. Price, M. Chahine, and M. A. McGuire. 2012. Effects of dietary betaine on milk yield and milk composition of mid-lactating Holstein dairy cows. J. Dairy Sci. 95: 6557-6562. Hines, S., A. Moore, B. Brown, M. Chahine, R. J. Norell, M. E. de Haro Martí, C. Falen, T. Fife, S. Parkinson, and J. Ippolito. 2012. Using Extension Phosphorus Uptake Research to Improve Idaho's Nutrient Management Planning Program, Journal of Extension. 50-5: Article RIB10. EXTENSION CURRICULA DEVELOPED: Two days Animal Care/welfare training in English and Spanish Raising Healthy Calves School in English and Spanish Herrick, K. J., A. R. Hippen, K. F. Kalscheur, J. L. Anderson, S. D. Ranathunga, R. S. Patton, and M. Abdullah. 2012. Lactation performance and digestibility of forages and diets in dairy cows fed a hemicellulose extract. J. Dairy Sci. 95:3342-3353. De Vries, A., J. D. Olson, and P. J. Pinedo. Reproductive risk factors for culling and productive life in 727 large dairy herds in the eastern USA between 2001 and 2006. J. Dairy Sci. (Accepted). Inchaisri, C., A. De Vries, R. Jorritsma, H. Hogeveen. 2012. Improved knowledge about conception rates influences the decision to stop insemination in dairy cows. Reproduction in Domestic Animals 47: 820 -826 Heins, B. J., L. B. Hansen, and A. De Vries. 2012. Survival, lifetime production, and profitability of Normande × Holstein, Montbéliarde × Holstein, and Scandinavian Red × Holstein crossbreds versus pure Holsteins. J. Dairy Sci. 95:1011-1021 Galvão, K. N., P. Federico, A. De Vries, and G.M. Schuenemann. 2013. Economic comparison of reproductive programs for dairy herds using estrus detection, timed artificial insemination, or a combination. J. Dairy Sci. 96:2681-2693 Dennis, T. S., J. E. Tower, and T. D. Nennich. 2012. Effects of feeding hay and baleage on growth and rumen parameters in prepubertal Holstein heifers. Prof. Anim. Sci. 28:648-656. Dennis, T. S., L. J. Unruh-Snyder, M. K. Neary, J. E. Tower, and T. D. Nennich. 2012. Effects of mixed grazing with goats on dairy heifer performance and pasture competition. J. Anim. Sci. 90:4467-4477. Shroer, R. C., T. D. Nennich, T. S. Dennis, M. M. Schutz, S. S. Donkin, and D. Little. Intake and growth of prepubertal dairy heifers fed reduced fat dried distillers grains. Prof. Anim. Sci. In press. Pereira, A. B. D., A. F. Brito, L. L. Townson, D. H. Townson. Assessing the research and education needs of the organic dairy industry in the northeastern United States. J. Dairy Sci. 96:7340-7348. Kokko, C., K. J. Soder, A. F. Brito, R. C. Hovey, and R. Berthiaume. 2013. Effect of time of cutting and maceration on nutrient flow, microbial protein synthesis, and digestibility in dual-flow continuous culture. J. Anim. Sci. 91:1765-1774. Soder, K. J., A. F. Brito, and M. D. Rubano. 2013. Effect of supplementing orchardgrass herbage with a total mixed ration or flaxseed on fermentation profile and bacterial protein synthesis in continuous culture. J. Dairy Sci. 96:3228-3237. Soder, K. J., A. F. Brito, and M. D. Rubano. 2013. Short communication: Effect of oilseed supplementation of an herbage diet on ruminal fermentation in continuous culture. J. Dairy Sci. 96:2551-2556. Chapman, C. E., R. G. Cabral, S. P. Marston, A. F. Brito, and P. S. Erickson. 2012. Short communication: Addition of sodium bicarbonate to maternal colostrum: Effects on immunoglobuling absorption and hematocrit in neonatal calves. J. Dairy Sci. 95:3961-3969. Soder, K. J., A. F. Brito, M. D. Rubano and C. J. Dell. 2012. Effect of incremental flaxseed supplementation of an herbage diet on methane output and ruminal fermentation in continuous culture. J. Dairy Sci. 95:3961-3969. Myers, Z. H., and D. K. Beede. 2009. Evaluating estimates of phosphorus maintenance requirement of lactating Holstein cows with different dry matter intakes. J. Dairy Sci. 92:708-719. Davidson, J. A., and D. K. Beede. 2009. Exercise training of late-pregnant and nonpregnant dairy cows affects physical fitness and acid-base balance. J. Dairy Sci. 92:548-562. Hollmann, M., M. S. Allen, and D. K. Beede. 2011. Diet fermentability influences lactational performance responses to distiller's grains: A meta analysis. J. Dairy Sci. 94: 2007 - 2021. Hollmann, M., M. S. Allen, and D. K. Beede. 2011. Dietary protein quality and quantity affect lactational responses to distiller's grains: A meta analysis. J. Dairy Sci. 94: 2022 - 2030. Hollmann, M., W. J. Powers, A. C. Fogiel, J. S. Liesman, and D. K. Beede. 2012. Enteric methane emissions and lactational performance of Holstein cows fed different concentrations of coconut oil. J. Dairy Sci. 95:2602-2615. Hollmann, M., and D. K. Beede. 2012. Comparison of effects of dietary coconut oil and animal fat blend on lactational performance of Holstein cows fed a high-starch diet. J. Dairy Sci. 95:1484-1499. Hollmann, M., W. J. Powers, A. C. Fogiel, J. S. Liesman, and D. K. Beede. 2013. Response profiles of enteric methane emissions and lactational performance during habituation to dietary coconut oil. J. Dairy Sci. 96:1769-1781. Genther, O. N., and D. K. Beede. 2013. Preference and drinking behavior of lactating dairy cows offered water with different concentrations, valences, and sources of iron. J. Dairy Sci. 96:1164-1176. Halachmi I, M.Klopcic, P.Polak, D.J.Roberts, and J.M. Bewley. 2013. Assessment of dairy cattle body condition score using thermal imaging. Computers and Electronics in Agriculture. (Accepted). Eckelkamp, E.A., C. N. Gravatte, C. O. Coombs, and J.M. Bewley. 2013. Case Study: characterization of lying behavior in dairy cows transitioning from a freestall barn with pasture access to a compost bedded pack barn. Professional Animal Scientist. (Accepted). Black, R.A., J.L. Taraba, G.B. Day, F. A. Damasceno, and J.M. Bewley. 2013. Compost bedded pack dairy barn management, performance, and producer satisfaction. J. Dairy Sci. (Accepted). Liang, D., C.L. Wood, K.J. McQuerry, D.L Ray, J.D Clark, and J.M Bewley. 2013. Influence of breed, milk production, season, and ambient temperature on dairy cow reticulorumen temperature. J. Dairy Sci. 96: 5072-5081 Sterrett, A.E. and J.M. Bewley. 2013. Characterization of management practices used by low somatic cell count Kentucky dairy herds. Professional Animal Scientist 29: 359-366. Smith, A.C., C.O. Coombs, and J.M. Bewley. 2013. Management practices employed by top Kentucky milk production herds. Professional Animal Scientist 29: 367-371. Smith, S.M., E.A. Chaney, and J.M. Bewley. 2013. Short Communication: Planning Considerations for On-Farm Dairy Processing Enterprises. J. Dairy Sci. 96: 4519-4522. Sterrett, A.E., C.L. Wood, K.J. McQuerry, J.M. Bewley. 2013. Changes in teat end hyperkeratosis after installation of an individual quarter pulsation milking system. J. Dairy Sci. 96: 4041-4046. Russell, R.A. and J.M. Bewley. 2013. Characterization of Kentucky dairy producer decision making behavior. J. Dairy Sci. 96: 4751-4758 Mirando, M. A., J. M. Bewley, J. Blue, D. M. Amaral-Phillips, V. A. Corriher, K. M. Whittet, N. Arthur, and D. J. Patterson. 2012. "EXTENSION EDUCATION SYMPOSIUM: Reinventing extension as a resource-What does the future hold?." Journal of Animal Science 90. 3677-3692. Holt, M.S., K. Neal, J.-S. Eun, A.J. Young, J.O. Hall and K.E. Nestor. 2013. Corn silage hybrid type and quality of alfalfa hay affect dietary nitrogen utilization by early lactating dairy cows. J. Dairy Sci. 96: 6564-6576. Holt, M. S., Eun, J.-S., Thacker, C. R., Young, A., Dai, X., Nestor, K. E. 2013. Effects of feeding brown midrib corn silage with a high dietary concentration of alfalfa hay on lactational performance of Holstein dairy cows for the first 180 days of lactation. J. Dairy Sci. 96: 515-523. Shahinfar, S. C. Page, J. Guenther, V. E. Cabrera, P. Fricke, and K Weigel. Accepted 10 September 2013. Prediction of insemination outcomes in Holstein dairy cattle using alternative Machine Learning algorithms. Journal of Dairy Science 00-00. Giordano, J. O., P. M. Fricke, and V. E. Cabrera. 2013. Economics of resynchronization strategies including chemical tests to identify non-pregnant cows. Journal of Dairy Science 96:949-961. Kalantari, A. S., and V. E. Cabrera. 2012. The effect of reproductive performance on the dairy cattle herd value assessed by integrating a daily dynamic programming with a daily Markov chain model. Journal of Dairy Science 95:6160 -6170. Book Chapters Knowlton, K. F., D. K. Beede, and E. Kebreab. 2009. Phosphorus requirements and nutrition of ruminants. In: Phosphorus Nutrition of Ruminants. E. Kebreab, ed. CABI Publishing, CAB International, Wallingford, Oxfordshire, OX10 8DE, UK. (accepted). Christenson, D. R., D. D. Warnick, J. E. McCarhty, D. K. Beede, D. W. Rozeboom, and A. G. Sollman. 2009. Field Crops (Chapter 36, page 545-565); (Focus Box, Dairying in Michigan, page 554). In: Michigan Geography and Geology. Schaetzl, R. J. Darden, J. T., and D. Brandt (eds). Pearson Custom Publishers, Upper Saddle River, NJ. Beede, D. K. 2013. Animal Agriculture: How Can It Be Sustainable In the Future? (Chapter 18). In: Sustainable Animal Agriculture. E. Kebreab, ed., CABI Publishing, CAB International, Wallingford, Oxfordshire, OX10 8DE, UK. pp. In Press. Kalscheur, K.F., A.D. Garcia, D.J. Schingoethe, F. Diaz Royón, and A.R. Hippen. 2012. Feeding biofuel co-products to dairy cattle. Pages 115-153 in Biofuel Co-products as Livestock Feed - Opportunities and Challenges. H.P.S. Makkar, ed. FAO, Rome, Italy. http://www.fao.org/docrep/016/i3009e/i3009e.pdf Non-peer reviewed (e.g., proceedings articles, abstracts, articles for client and lay audiences): Nennich, T. 2012. Feeding distillers grain to young dairy heifers. Purdue University AS-609-W. Nennich, T., T. Dennis, H. Schmitz, and J. Tower. 2012. Supplementing young grazing dairy heifers with lick tubs - A case study. Purdue University AS-610-W. Hollmann, M., D. K. Beede, M. S. Allen. 2007. Increased diet fermentability reduces production response to corn distiller's grains in lactating cows: A statistical analysis. J. Dairy Sci. 90(Suppl. 1): 452. VandeHaar, M. J., H. F. Bucholtz, D. K. Beede, M. S. Allen, and R. D. Kriegel. 2007. Spartan dairy ration evaluator/balancer version 3: A user-friendly, windows-based software program for dairy nutrition management. J. Dairy Sci. 90(Suppl. 1):604. Beede, D. K. 2007. Dietary cation-anion difference for dairy rations. Proc. Prince Summit 2007, 27th Annual Animal Nutrition Conf., CD medium. Beede, D. K., M. Hollmann, and H. F. Bucholtz. 2007. Tips for feeding corn distiller's grains to dairy cattle, Michigan Dairy Review, 12: 10-11. Rozeboom, D. W., B. Stunadjusted, H. Li, and D. K. Beede. 2007. Antibiotics in the environment and antibiotic resistance. Michigan State University Extension Bulletin for Animal Agriculture and the Environment Forum (March, 2007).www.msue.msu.edu/.../download.cffm.revision_id.377728/workplace_id.27335/Tech%20Bulletin%20Antibiotics.pdf/; also found at: www.thecattlesite.com; www.thepigsite.com; and, in MSU Pork Quarterly. Hollmann, M. and D. K. Beede. 2008. Dietary coconut oil and animal fat blend decrease lactational performance of Holstein cows fed a high starch diet. J. Dairy Sci. 91 (E-Suppl 1):331; J. Anim. Sci. 86: (E-Suppl 2):331. Hollmann, M., D. K. Beede, and M. S. Allen. 2008. Inclusion of corn distiller's grains reduces unadjusted and fat-corrected milk yields but not milk fat concentration in more fermentable diets: A statistical analysis. Proc. Tri-State Nutrition Conf. pp 131. Powers, W.J., D.M. Panetta, B.S. Oldick, A. Fogiel, J. Roth, J.R. Russell, M. Hollmann, D.K. Beede, J.A. Davidson, and D. Meyer. 2008. Impact of diet modification on performance and air emissions from dairy cattle. Proc. International Livestock Environment Symposium VIII. September 1-5, Iguasso Falls, Brazil. Beede, David K. 2008. Provide plenty of water. Dairy Herd Management 45(4), April (2nd Quarter/Spring), 10-13. www.ManejoLechero.com Hollmann, Marcus, Beede, David K., Allen, Michael. 2008. Ration fermentability: key factor for inclusion level of distiller's grains in lactation rations. Michigan Dairy Review 13(2), April (2nd Quarter/Spring), 6-8. Hollmann, Marcus, Beede, David K. 2008. Dietary coconut oil and animal fat blend decrease lactational performance of Holstein cows fed a high starch diet. 91 (E-Suppl. 1). Hollmann, Marcus, Beede, David K., Allen, Michael. 2008. "Hollmann, M., D. K. Beede, and M. S. Allen. (April 2008). Inclusion of corn distiller's grains reduces raw and fat-corrected milk yields but not milk fat concentration in more fermentable diets: A statistical analysis. Proc. Tri-State Nutrition Conf. page 155, Ft. Wayne, IN." April (2nd Quarter/Spring). Rozeboom, Dale W., Beede, David K. 2009. How much root zone is needed for livestock nutrients. MSU Pork Quarterly 14(1), January (1st Quarter/Winter), 6-7. Hollmann, M. and D. K. Beede. 2010. Source of dietary saturated fatty acids and parity influence dry matter intake and energy partitioning in Holstein dairy cows. J. Dairy Sci. 93 (E-Suppl. 1): 234. Hollmann, M. and D.K. Beede. 2010. Limited suitability of dietary coconut oil to reduce enteric methane emissions from dairy cattle. Pg.112 in Proc. 4th Greenhouse Gases and Anim. Agric. Conf. Banff, Alberta, Canada. Beede, D. K., M. H. Hollmann, and M. S. Allen. 2011. Lactational response to corn distillers grains: A meta-analysis with focus on diet fermentability and protein quality. Proc. 72nd Minnesota Nutr. Conf. pp. 108 - 123. Hollmann, M., M. S. Allen, and D. K. Beede. 2011. Chain length of saturated fatty acids affects intake and ruminal turnover of NDF and chewing activity in lactating cows varying in milk yield. Abstract submitted for presentation at ASAS-ADSA Joint Meetings in New Orleans, LA, July 2011. J. Dairy Sci. (E-Suppl. 1): Hollmann, M., M. S. Allen, and D. K. Beede. 2011. Chain length of dietary saturated fatty acids affects meal patterns and plasma metabolite and hormone concentrations of cows varying in milk yield. Abstract submitted for presentation at ASAS-ADSA Joint Meetings in New Orleans, LA, July 2011. J. Dairy Sci. (E-Suppl. 1): Utsumi, S., D. K. Beede, S. Zimmerman, and P. Zimmerman. 2011. Whole herd enteric methane emission estimates in three contrasting dairy systems. J. Dairy Sci. (E-Suppl. 1): Beede, D. K., M. H. Hollmann, and M. S. Allen. 2011. Lactational response to corn distillers grains: A meta-analysis with focus on diet fermentability and protein quality. Proc. 72nd Minnesota Nutr. Conf. pp. 108 - 123. Hollmann, M., M. S. Allen, and D. K. Beede. 2011. Chain length of saturated fatty acids affects intake and ruminal turnover of NDF and chewing activity in lactating cows varying in milk yield. J. Dairy Sci. (E-Suppl. 1) 94:201. Hollmann, M., M. S. Allen, and D. K. Beede. 2011. Chain length of dietary saturated fatty acids affects meal patterns and plasma metabolite and hormone concentrations of cows varying in milk yield. J. Dairy Sci. (E-Suppl. 1) 94:200. Utsumi, S., D. K. Beede, S. Zimmerman, and P. Zimmerman. 2011. Whole herd enteric methane emission estimates in three contrasting dairy systems. J. Dairy Sci. (E-Suppl. 1) 94:607. Genther, O. N., J. A. Zyskowski, T. H. Herdt, and D. K. Beede. 2011. Effects of abomasal dosing of ferrous lactate in lactating dairy cows. J. Dairy Sci. (E-Suppl. 1) 94:126. Genther, O. N., J. A. Zyskowski, T. H. Herdt, and D. K. Beede. 2011. Effects of abomasal dosing of ferrous or ferric sulfate on short-term iron status of lactating dairy cows. J. Dairy Sci. (E-Suppl. 1) 94:768. Beede, D. K. 2012. What can we do about water quality? Proc. Tri-State Dairy Nutr. Conf. pp. 17 - 22. Hollmann, M., T. H. Herdt, J. A. Zyskowski, and D. K. Beede. 2012. Hepatic triglyceride concentration and fatty acid profile in early lactation Holstein cows fed saturated medium- or long-chain fatty acids. J. Dairy Sci. (E-Suppl. 1) 95:103. Hollmann, M., M. S. Allen, T. H. Herdt, J. A. Zyskowski, K. M. Lebbin, J. P. Steibel, and D. K. Beede. 2012. Fates of medium-chain fatty acids fed to lactating dairy cows. J. Dairy Sci. (E-Suppl. 1) 95:434. Genther, O. N., and D. K. Beede. 2012. Effects of water iron concentration, valence and source on drinking water preference of lactating cows. J. Dairy Sci. (E-Suppl. 1) 95:102. Utsumi, S. A., and D. K. Beede. 2012. Performance of dairy cows managed with automatic milking and three contrasting feeding systems. J. Dairy Sci. (E-Suppl. 1) 95:581. Nieman, C., S. Utsumi, D. K. Beede, and J. Rowntree. 2012. Effects of stocking rate, supplement strategy and breed in a pasture-based automatic milking system. J. Dairy Sci. (E-Suppl. 1) 95:235. DeLand, K. E., M. Hollmann, J. C. Ploetz, W. J. Powers, D. K. Beede, and A. L. Lock. 2012. Potential use of specific milk fatty acids to predict enteric methane emissions from lactating dairy cows. J. Dairy Sci. (E-Suppl. 1) 95:433. Beede, D. K. 2012. What can we do about water quality? Proc. Tri-State Dairy Nutr. Conf. pp. 17 - 22. Hollmann, M., T. H. Herdt, J. A. Zyskowski, and D. K. Beede. 2012. Hepatic triglyceride concentration and fatty acid profile in early lactation Holstein cows fed saturated medium- or long-chain fatty acids. J. Dairy Sci. (E-Suppl. 1) 95:103. Hollmann, M., M. S. Allen, T. H. Herdt, J. A. Zyskowski, K. M. Lebbin, J. P. Steibel, and D. K. Beede. 2012. Fates of medium-chain fatty acids fed to lactating dairy cows. J. Dairy Sci. (E-Suppl. 1) 95:434. Genther, O. N., and D. K. Beede. 2012. Effects of water iron concentration, valence and source on drinking water preference of lactating cows. J. Dairy Sci. (E-Suppl. 1) 95:102. Utsumi, S. A., and D. K. Beede. 2012. Performance of dairy cows managed with automatic milking and three contrasting feeding systems. J. Dairy Sci. (E-Suppl. 1) 95:581. Nieman, C., S. Utsumi, D. K. Beede, and J. Rowntree. 2012. Effects of stocking rate, supplement strategy and breed in a pasture-based automatic milking system. J. Dairy Sci. (E-Suppl. 1) 95:235. DeLand, K. E., M. Hollmann, J. C. Ploetz, W. J. Powers, D. K. Beede, and A. L. Lock. 2012. Potential use of specific milk fatty acids to predict enteric methane emissions from lactating dairy cows. J. Dairy Sci. (E-Suppl. 1) 95:433. Beede, D. K. 2012. What can we do about water quality? Proc. Cornell Nutr. Conf. for Feed Manufacturers. pp 77 - 84. Beede, D. K. 2013. What Can We Do about Water Quality? Proc. Penn. Dairy Cattle Nutr. Workshop. In Press. Shire, J. A., and D. K. Beede. 2013. DCAD Revisited: Prepartum Use to Optimize Health and Lactational Performance. Proc. Southwest Nutrition and Management Conf. pp 1 - 18. Shire, J. A., and D. K. Beede. 2013. Revisiting Prepartum DCAD: Reducing Hypocalcemia in Transition Cows. Proc. Penn. Dairy Cattle Nutr. Workshop. In Press. Shire, J. A., and D. K. Beede. 2013. Influence of DCAD on Lactational Performance: A Review of Some Practical Considerations. Proc. Penn. Dairy Cattle Nutr. Workshop. In Press. Ziegler, D., D. Schimek, B. Ziegler, H. Chester-Jones, M. Raeth-Knight, and G. Golombeski. 2012. Intake and performance of Holstein heifers transitioned to group housing from individual pens using different grain mixes with or without hay the first two weeks after moving. J. Dairy Sci. 95(Suppl. 2):110. Abstract M293. Chester-Jones, H., S. Moreland, D. Ziegler, M. Raeth-Knight, and J. van Eys. 2012. Pre- and postwweaning performance of dairy calves when sodium butyrate is fed in milk replacer and/or calf starter during the summer months. J. Dairy Sci. 95 (Suppl. 2): 113. Abstract M303. Chester-Jones, H., D. Dean. D. Ziegler. K. Halpin, M. Raeth-Knight, and D. Carlson. 2013. Performance and health of Holstein dairy calves fed Peptide Powder 80 or hydrolyzed wheat protein as alternative protein sources in milk replacers. J. Dairy Sci. 96(E-Suppl.1): 251. Abstract W70. Ziegler, D., B. Ziegler, H. Chester-Jones, D. Schimek, and M. Raeth-Knight. 2013. Impact of fiber and monensin in texturized calf starters when fed in the nursery phase on calf health and performance in both the nursery and grower phases. J. Dairy Sci. 96(E-Suppl.1):251. Abstract W72. Mousa, M., A. Seykora, H. Chester-Jones, D. Ziegler, and J. Cole. 2013. Heritability estimates of performance and health traits of Holstein calves. J. Dairy Sci. 96(E-Suppl.1):291. Abstract W194. Kalantari, A., and V. E. Cabrera. 2013. Stochastic economic evaluation of dairy farms' reproductive performance. Journal of Animal Science 91 (E-Suppl. 2):791. Shahinfar, S., A. S. Kalantari, V. E. Cabrera, and K. A. Weigel. 2013. Retention pay-off prediction using machine learning algorithms. Journal of Animal Science 91 (E-Suppl. 2):709. Kalantari, A., and V. E. Cabrera. 2013. Agreement of dairy cattle replacement policies by two models: Optimization and simulation. Journal of Animal Science 91 (E-Suppl. 2):TH380. Hardie, C. A., M. Dutreuil, R. Gildersleeve, M. Wattiaux, N. S. Keuler, and V. E. Cabrera. 2013. Impact of feeding strategies on milk production and profitability on Wisconsin organic dairy farms. Journal of Animal Science 91 (E-Suppl. 2):TH378. Souza, A. H., P. A. Carvalho, R. D. Shaver, M. C. Wiltbank, and V. E. Cabrera. 2013. Epidemiology of synchronization programs for breeding management in US dairy herds. Journal of Animal Science 91 (E-Suppl. 2):W182. Souza, A. H., P. A. Carvalho, R. D. Shaver, M. C. Wiltbank, and V. E. Cabrera. 2013. Impact of timed AI use on reproductive performance and culling rate in Wisconsin dairy herds. Journal of Animal Science 91 (E-Suppl. 2):W303. Cabrera, V. E., P. M. Fricke, P. L. Ruegg, R. D. Shaver, M. C. Wiltbank, K. A. Weigel, and M. Cordoba. 2013. An integrated approach to improve dairy cow fertility. Pp. 48-51 in Proceedings USDA Agriculture and Food Research Initiative Animal Reproduction Project Director Meeting. Montreal, QC. 26 July 2013. Contreras-Govea, F. E., V. E. Cabrera, L. E. Armentano, R. D. Shaver, and P. M. Crump. 2013. Constraints for nutritional grouping in Wisconsin dairy farms. Journal of Animal Science 91 (E-Suppl. 2):TH192. Cordoba, M. C., P. M. Fricke, P. L. Ruegg, R. D. Shaver, K. A. Weigel, and V. E. Cabrera. 2013. An update on the Repro Money Program: A farmer-directed team-based extension program to improve reproductive performance in Wisconsin dairy herds. Journal of Animal Science 91 (E-Suppl. 2):TH198. Hardie, C. A., M. Dutreuil, R. Gildersleeve, and V. E. Cabrera. 2013. A comparison of feeding strategies on Wisconsin organic dairy farms. In Proceedings The Midwest Organic and Sustainable Education Service Conference. La Crosse, WI. 23 February 2013. Cabrera, V. E. 2012. DairyMGT: A suite of decision support systems in dairy farm management. IN Decision Support Systems. Jao C. (Ed.), INTECH, Rijeka, Croatia. De Vries, A. 2012. Economics of Heat Stress: Implications for Management. DAIReXNET, available on http://www.extension.org/pages/63287/economics-of-heat-stress:-implications-for-management Last Updated: April 03, 2012 Kaniyamattam, K., K. D. Gay, E. J. Diepersloot, D. R. Bray, C. R. Staples, and A. De Vries. 2012. Accuracy of the Afilab real time milk analyzer to predict DHIA fat, DHIA protein, and lactose. J. Anim. Sci. Vol. 90, Suppl. 3/J. Dairy Sci. Vol. 95, Suppl. 2:476 (abstract 533). De Vries, A. 2012. Regression meta-models to predict the value of pregnancy in dairy cows. J. Anim. Sci. Vol. 90, Suppl. 3/J. Dairy Sci. Vol. 95, Suppl. 2:475 (abstract 531). De Vries, A. 2013. Cow longevity economics: The cost benefit of keeping the cow in the herd. Pages 22-52 of Proceedings DeLaval Cow Longevity Conference, Tumba, Sweden, August 28+29 Arriolo, K. G., and A. De Vries. 2013. Pedometer activity predicts probability of pregnancy after timed-artificial insemination. Pages 165-166 in: Proceedings first US Precision Dairy Management Conference, Rochester, MN, June 26-27. De Vries, A., K. D. Gay, L. F. Barbosa, F. Du, K. Kaniyamattam, and E. Maltz. 2013. Prediction of body condition scores of dairy cows from daily measurements of body weights, milk yields, and milk composition. Pages 163-164 in: Proceedings first US Precision Dairy Management Conference, Rochester, MN, June 26-27. De Vries, A., J. B. Cole, and D. T. Galligan. 2013. Regression metamodels of an optimal genomic testing strategy in dairy cattle when selection intensity is low. J. Anim. Sci. Vol. 91, E-Suppl. 2/J. Dairy Sci. Vol. 96, E-Suppl. 1:74 (abstract T207) De Vries, A., K. D. Gay, L. F. Barbosa, F. Du, K. Kaniyamattam, and E. Maltz. 2013. Prediction of body condition scores in dairy cattle from daily measurements of milk yield, milk composition and body weights. J. Anim. Sci. Vol. 91, E-Suppl. 2/J. Dairy Sci. Vol. 96, E-Suppl. 1:599 (abstract TH365) Du, F., K. Gay, M. Sowerby, Y. Newman, C. Staples, C. Lacy, and A. De Vries. 2013. Survey of milk production, and feeding and reproduction management on pasture based dairy farms in Florida and Georgia. J. Anim. Sci. Vol. 91, E-Suppl. 2/J. Dairy Sci. Vol. 96, E-Suppl. 1:599 (abstract TH372) Gobikrushanth, M., A. De Vries, C. A. Risco, J. E. Santos, and K. N. Galvão, 2013. Effect of delaying breeding during the summer on profitability of dairy cows. J. Anim. Sci. Vol. 91, E-Suppl. 2/J. Dairy Sci. Vol. 96, E-Suppl. 1:599 (abstract TH377) Kaniyamattam, K., J. Schneider, and A. De Vries. 2013. Development of a Monte Carlo simulation model to quantify genetic progress from an emerging IVF embryo transfer dairy reproduction system. J. Anim. Sci. Vol. 91, E-Suppl. 2/J. Dairy Sci. Vol. 96, E-Suppl. 1:291 (abstract W193) De Vries, A., and J. Salfer. 2013. Profitability of combined use of sexed semen and genomic testing in dairy heifers. J. Anim. Sci. Vol. 91, E-Suppl. 2/J. Dairy Sci. Vol. 96, E-Suppl. 1:291 (abstract 545) De Vries, A., F. Du, K. Gay, T. Bilby, J. Block, and P. Hansen. 2013. Optimization of breeding decisions for dairy cattle subject to long periods of seasonal heat stress. J. Anim. Sci. Vol. 91, E-Suppl. 2/J. Dairy Sci. Vol. 96, E-Suppl. 1:291 (abstract 605) Dresch, A., P. Silva, H. Hooper, C. Spies, P. Lau, K. Lobeck, K. Machado, M. Endres, and R. Chebel. 2013. Effect of stocking density in the prepartum period on health and productive parameters of Jersey cows. J. Dairy Sci. 96 (Suppl. 1):212. Dresch, A., J. Moraes, P. Silva,H. Hooper, C. Spies, P. Lau, K. Lobeck, K. Machado, M. Ballou, M. Endres, and R. Chebel. 2013. Effect of stocking density in the prepartum period on innate immune parameters and hemogram of dairy cows. J. Dairy Sci. 96 (Suppl. 1):46. Lobeck, K.M., M. I. Endres, A. R. Dresch, and R. C. Chebel. 2013. Effect of stocking density on lying behavior of dairy cows. 2013. J. Dairy Sci. 96 (Suppl. 1):431. Salfer, J.A., and M. I. Endres. 2013. Association between stall surface and some dairy welfare measurements on farms using automatic milking systems. J. Dairy Sci. 96 (Suppl. 1):469. Salfer, J.A., M. I. Endres, and D. W. Kammel. 2013. Housing and management characteristics of 53 farms using automatic milking systems. J. Dairy Sci. 96 (Suppl. 1):662. Heins, B.J., J.C. Paulson, M.I. Endres, and R.D. Moon. 2013. Effect of organic grain supplementation on production, body weight, body condition score, and profitability of organic dairy cows. J. Dairy Sci. 96 (Suppl. 1):662. Heins, B.J., J.C. Paulson, M.I. Endres, and R.D. Moon. 2013. Effect of organic grain supplementation on pasture and total mixed ration dry matter intake and fatty acid profiles of organic dairy cows. J. Dairy Sci. 96 (Suppl. 1):600. Salfer, J.A., M.I. Endres, and D.W. Kammel. 2013. Housing, management and animal welfare characteristics of farms using automatic milking systems. In Proc. Precision Dairy Conference and Expo, pp. 35. Lobeck, K.M., M.I. Endres, A.R. Dresh, and R. Chebel. 2013. Effect of stocking density on lying behavior of dairy cows. In Proc. Precision Dairy Conference and Expo, pp. 159. Endres, M.I., K. Lobeck, P.B. Silva, and R.Chebel. 2013. Association of social rank with health, reproduction, and milk production of dairy cows. Pg 84 in Proc. 47th Congress of ISAE, Florianopolis, Brazil, Wageningen Acad. Publ., The Netherlands. Lobeck, K.M., M.I. Endres, P.R.B. Silva, and R. Chebel. 2012. Effect of prepartum grouping strategy on agonistic behavior of dairy cows. J. Dairy Sci. 95 (Suppl. 2):219. Lobeck, K.M., M.I. Endres, P.R.B. Silva, and R. Chebel. 2012. Association of social rank during the prepartum period with health, reproduction, and milk production of dairy cows. J. Dairy Sci. 95 (Suppl. 2):505. Silva, P.R.B., J.G.N. Moraes, L.G.D. Mendonça, A.A. Scanavez, G. Nakagawa, M.I. Endres, M. A. Ballou, and R. C. Chebel. 2012. Effects of prepartum grouping strategy on immune parameters of peripartum dairy cows. J. Dairy Sci. 95 (Suppl. 2):43. Silva, P.R.B., J.G.N. Moraes, L.G.D. Mendonça, A.A. Scanavez, G. Nakagawa, M.I. Endres, J. Fetrow, and R. C. Chebel. 2012. Effects of prepartum grouping strategy on health, reproductive, and productive parameters of dairy cows. J. Dairy Sci. 95 (Suppl. 2):330. Silva, P.R.B., J.G.N. Moraes, L.G.D. Mendonça, A.A. Scanavez, G. Nakagawa, M I. Endres, and R.C. Chebel. 2012. Effects of prepartum grouping strategy on body condition score and metabolic parameters of peripartum dairy cows. J. Dairy Sci. 95 (Suppl. 2):331. Chahine, M., Pozo, O. and M. E. de Haro Marti. 2013. Appropriate Milking Routine (Rutinas apropiadas de ordeño). eXtension fact sheet. http://www.extension.org/pages/Materiales_en_español Acharya, I. P., D J. Schingoethe, and K. F. Kalscheur. 2012. Response of different concentrations and sources of dietary protein on lactating dairy cows. Midwest ADSA/ASAS. J. Dairy Sci. 95 (Suppl. 1):121-122. (Abstr.) Albrecht, J .J., K. F. Kalscheur, A. R. Hippen, and D. J. Schingoethe. 2012. Evaluation of replacing corn and soybean meal in lactating dairy cow diets with field peas (psium sativum) on ruminal pH, ammonia and volatile fatty acid (VFA). Midwest ADSA/ASAS. J. Dairy Sci. 95 (Suppl. 1):90-91. (Abstr.) Ranathunga, S. D., K. F. Kalscheur, A. R. Hippen and D. J. Schingoethe. 2012. (Invited ADSA Young Dairy Scholar) Dried distillers grains with solubles as a non-forage fiber source in lactating dairy cow diets. Midwest ADSA/ASAS. J. Dairy Sci. 95 (Suppl. 1):37. (Abstr.) Acharya, I. P., D. J. Schingoethe, K. F. Kalscheur, and D. P. Casper. 2012. Response to different concentrations and sources of dietary protein on blood urea nitrogen concentrations and plasma amino acid utilization for milk production. J. Dairy Sci. 95 (Suppl. 2):41. (Abstr.) Albrecht, J. J., K. F. Kalscheur, A. R. Hippen, D. J. Schingoethe, and D. P. Casper. 2012. Replacing corn and soybean meal in lactating dairy cow diets with field peas (pisum sativum) on milk production and nitrogen utilization. J. Dairy Sci. 95 (Suppl. 2):202. (Abstr.) Herrick, K. J., A. R. Hippen, K. F. Kalscheur, D. J. Schingoethe, D. P. Casper, S. C. Moreland and J. E. van Eys. 2012. Metabolism of butyrate infused in the rumen or abomasum of lactating dairy cows. J. Dairy Sci. 95 (Suppl. 2):175. (Abstr.) Ranathunga, S. D., K. F. Kalscheur, and D. P. Casper. 2012. A comparison of methods to analyze physical effective factor and physically effective NDF in TMR and orts. J. Dairy Sci. 95 (Suppl. 2):345. (Abstr.) Ranathunga, S. D., K. F. Kalscheur, and D. P. Casper. 2012. Effect of different forage and dried distillers grains with solubles concentrations on sorting behavior of lactating dairy cows. J. Dairy Sci. 95 (Suppl. 2):607. (Abstr.) Extension publications Casper, D. P, K. Kalscheur, A. Garcia. 2012. Soybeans as forage for dairy cattle. SDSU Extension. iGrow Publication #: 02-2043-2012. Anderson, J.L., and K.F. Kalscheur. 2013. (Invited ADSA Young Dairy Scholar) Effects of feeding fat from distillers grains on growth, metabolic profile, and long term performance of dairy heifers. J. Dairy Sci. 96 (Suppl. 1):35. (Abstr.) Anderson, J.L., K.F. Kalscheur, J.A. Clapper, G.A. Perry, D.H. Keisler, A.D. Garcia, and D.J. Schingoethe. 2013. Metabolic profile and onset of puberty of growing dairy heifers fed increased dietary fat from dried distillers grains. J. Dairy Sci. 96 (E-Suppl. 1):34. (Abstr.) Anderson, J.L., K.F. Kalscheur, A.D. Garcia, and D.J. Schingoethe. 2013. Long-term performance of growing dairy heifers fed increased dietary fat from dried distillers grains. J. Dairy Sci. 96 (E-Suppl. 1):262. (Abstr.) Herrick, K.J. and K.F. Kalscheur. 2013. (Invited ADSA Young Dairy Scholar) Butyrate supplementation effects on metabolism and production in lactating dairy cows. J. Dairy Sci. 96 (Suppl. 1):35. (Abstr.) Manthey, A.K., K.F. Kalscheur, A.D. Garcia, and K. Mjoun. 2013. Effect of yeast-derived microbial protein in low and high forage diets on lactation performance of dairy cows. J. Dairy Sci. 96 (E-Suppl. 1):447. (Abstr.) Ranathunga, S.D., M.M. Abdelqader, and K.F. Kalscheur. 2013. Nutrient digestion by dairy cows fed diets replacing starch with non-forage fiber. Pages 51-63 in Energy and Protein Metabolism and Nutrition in Sustainable Animal Production. EAAP Publication No. 134. J.W. Oltjen, E. Kebreab, and H. Lapierre, eds. Wageningen Academic Publishers, Wageningen, The Netherlands. (Abstr.) Schuler, A.M., K.F. Kalscheur, D.P. Casper, and J.L. Anderson. 2013. Determination of the optimum dietary forage concentration when using canola meal as a primary protein source in lactating dairy cow diets. J. Dairy Sci. 96 (E-Suppl. 1):397. (Abstr.) Schuler, A.M., K.F. Kalscheur, F. Diaz-Royon, S.E. Boucher, and F.R. Valdez. 2013. Production responses to increasing MP lysine supply in lactating Holstein cows. J. Dairy Sci. 96 (E-Suppl. 1):695-696. (Abstr.) Smith, M.L., K.F. Kalscheur, J.L. Anderson, D.P. Casper, and D.L. Prentice. 2013. Rumensin in dairy cows diets containing high and low levels of linoleic acid from corn distillers grains and high and low fractions of physically effective fiber. J. Dairy Sci. 96 (E-Suppl. 1):695. (Abstr.) Dennis, T. S., J. E. Tower, and T. D. Nennich. 2012. Evaluation of feed delivery methods for transitioning prepubertal dairy heifers to higher forage diets. J. Dairy Sci. 95(Suppl. 1):98. Dennis, T. S., J. E. Tower, and T. D. Nennich. 2012. Evaluation of feed delivery methods for prepubertal dairy heifers during the growing period. J. Dairy Sci. 95(E-Suppl. 2):45. Fraley, S. E., M. B. Hall, and T. D. Nennich. 2012. Effect of dietary potassium on water intake and rumen dynamics. J. Dairy Sci. 95(E-Suppl. 2):482-483. Fraley, S. E., J. E. Townsend, and T. D. Nennich. 2012. Effects of sudden additions of condensed distillers solubles to diets of lactating dairy cows on milk production and milk components. J. Dairy Sci. 95(E-Suppl. 2):607. Gay, K. D., N. J. Olynk, T. D. Nennich, A. P. Schinckel, and M. M. Schutz. 2012. Development of a Merit-Based Genetic Selection Index for Dairy Grazing Systems. J. Dairy Sci. 95 (Suppl. 2):234. McCullough, S. A., T. S. Dennis, and T. D. Nennich. 2012. Effect of calf starter form and milk source on growth and intake of dairy calves. J. Dairy Sci. 95(E-Suppl. 2):215. Dennis, T. S., H. Schmitz, A. Mosiman, J. Tower, T. Nennich. 2013. Impact of providing shade on grazing dairy heifer performance. J. Dairy Sci. 96(Suppl. 1):90. Dennis, T. S., J. E. Tower, H. Schmitz, A. Mosiman, and T. D. Nennich. 2013. Impact of increased dietary grain inclusion on growth performance of prepubertal dairy heifers. J. Dairy Sci. 96(E-Suppl. 1):717. McCullough, S. A., T. S. Dennis, S. E. Fraley, B. Houin, and T. D. Nennich*. 2013. Effect of milk feeding frequency and weaning age on growth and intake of dairy calves. J. Dairy Sci. 96(E-Suppl. 1):221. A.R. Ervin, R. Peters, T. McCoy, K.M. Moyes. 2013. A survey on the challenges and opportunities regarding the transition from conventional to automatic milking systems (AMS) in the Northeastern (NE) United States. J. Anim. Sci. Vol. 91, E-Suppl. 2/J. Dairy Sci. Vol. 96, E-Suppl. 1: 179. Peters, R. R., K. M. Wilson, M. R. Bell, R. A. Erdman, S. W. Fultz, J. E. Hall, R. A. Kohn, W. D. Lantz, J. W. Semler, and M. A. Varner. 2007 Maryland dairy producer education needs assessment study. J. Anim. Sci. 85 (Suppl. 1)/ J. Dairy Sci. 90 (Suppl. 1)/ Poult. Sci. 86 (Suppl. 1): 26. Peters, R. R., K. M. Wilson, M. R. Bell, R. A. Erdman, S. W. Fultz, J. E. Hall, R. A. Kohn, W. D. Lantz, J. W. Semler, and M. A. Varner. 2007 Trends in Maryland dairying and future prospects. J. Anim. Sci. 85 (Suppl. 1)/ J. Dairy Sci. 90 (Suppl. 1)/ Poult. Sci. 86 (Suppl. 1): 26. Peters, R. R., S. W. Fultz, J. W. Semler, and R. A. Erdman. 2010. Body growth of pregnant Holstein heifers reared on pasture or conventional diet. J. Anim. Sci. 88 (E-Suppl. 2)/ J. Dairy Sci. 93 (E-Suppl. 2)/ Poult. Sci. 89 (E-Suppl. 1): 414 Fultz, S.W., Erdman R.A, Peters, R.R., and Semler, J.W. 2011. Body growth rates and first lactation milk production of pregnant Holstein heifers reared on pasture or conventional diet. National Association of County Agricultural Agents Annual Meeting and Professional Conference Proceedings, Overland Park, KS. Page 47. Peters, R. R., S. W. Fultz, J. W. Semler, and R. A. Erdman. 2012. Body growth and first lactation milk production of pregnant Holstein heifers reared on pasture or conventional diets. J. Anim. Sci. Vol. 90, E-Suppl. 3/J. Dairy Sci. Vol. 95, E-Suppl. 2: 27. Theses and Dissertations Anderson, J. 2012. Growth, nutrient utilization, metabolic profile and long term performance of dairy heifers fed distillers grains. Ph.D. Disseration. South Dakota State University, Brookings. Smith, M. 2013. Monensin in dairy cow diets containing high and low levels of linoleic acid from corn distillers grains and high and low fractions of physically effective neutral detergent fiber. M.S. Thesis, South Dakota State University, Brookings. Schuler, A. 2013. Amino acid supply and utilization by lactating dairy cows in diets when canola meal is fed as the primary protein source or in diets supplemented with rumen-protected lysine. M.S. Thesis, South Dakota State University, Brookings. Herrick, K. 2012. Sugar and butyrate supplementation effects on metabolism and production in lactating dairy cows. Ph.D. Dissertation, South Dakota State University, Brookings. Albrecht, J. 2012. Replacing corn and soybean meal in lactating dairy cow diets with field peas (Pisum sativum). M.S. Thesis, South Dakota State University, Brookings. 2012-2013