Caring for a newborn calf is one of the most important jobs on any dairy operation, but it’s only the first step in a successful calf management program that includes raising a healthy heifer that freshens out to become a profitable cow lactation after lactation.
Michigan State University (MSU) Extension dairy educators will be conducting its Calf Care School at three locations across the state in March. The one-day workshop emphasizes the most effective ways for applying up-to-date science-based practices available for taking care of calves from birth through the transition period leading up to calving. It targets producers and dairy farm employees who are interested in developing or refining their calf care skills.
The workshop will cover the following topics: maternity pen management, calf pulling technique, newborn calf care, feeding milk and milk replacer, managing dry feed and water, basic calf nutrition, managing calf housing, controlling and treating scours, removing extra teats, dehorning and vaccinations, weaning, maintaining records, monitoring performance, the early transition period and managing colostrum using a colostrometer.
MSU Extension dairy educators Faith Cullens, Kathy Lee and Stan Moore will present the program. A veterinarian from a local clinic will join them.
Calf care workshops take place on the following dates from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.:
March 29 – Zeeland Township Hall (6582 Byron Road, Zeeland), Register: Ottawa County MSU Extension at 231-839-4667
March 30 – MSU Clarksville Research Center, 9302 Portland Road, Clarksville, Register: Clinton County MSU Extension at 989-224-5240
The cost to attend Calf Care School is $35 per person, which includes lunch, a notebook and instructional materials.