Notes From the Field
Max & Mandi’s Memo Western Kentucky University SmartHolstein Lab Will Lead the Future of Dairy Research and Analytics
The creation of the Western Kentucky University (WKU) SmartHolstein Lab was announced during Holstein Association USA’s Annual Meeting on June 24th, 2021, in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. The WKU SmartHolstein Lab is a strategic, synergistic partnership between Holstein Association USA and Western Kentucky University, designed to be a research, development, and demonstration center for the dairy industry. The mission of the WKU SmartHolstein Lab is to lead Holstein and dairy advancements through research, development, and outreach in technologies, analytics, and genetics. The work done at the WKU SmartHolstein Lab will help guide members and the entire dairy community on how technology and data may benefit their individual herds. It also provides one-of-a-kind learning opportunities for students. Dr. Jeffrey Bewley, Holstein Association USA Analytics and Innovation Scientist, shared details about the project during the Annual Meeting. In his role, Dr. Bewley serves as a scientific and educational lead for Holstein Association research and development projects focused on technology and analytics innovations. Dr. Bewley will also serve as a resource to members as they explore their dairy technology and data needs. The WKU herd is designed to milk 50 Registered Holsteins with associated replacements at the WKU Agriculture Research and Education Center in Bowling Green, Kentucky. The long-term goal is to develop a 100% A2, polled herd of cows in the top 20% of the breed for TPI with additional emphasis on health, reproduction, and fitness traits. The SmartHolstein Lab has been established as an easy-toaccess demonstration and development farm to explore new technologies designed to collect novel phenotypic traits including wearable or indwelling sensors and milk-based biomarkers. A major emphasis will be placed on practical use of data for on-farm decision making. Inclusion of data into AgriTech Analytics (a DHI dairy records processing center owned by Holstein Association) will also be explored. Collaborations and partnerships with established and startup
dairy technology and data providers are also an important and essential part of the project. The WKU SmartHolstein Lab is a place where partners can come to explore new opportunities with an experienced team of dairy analytics leaders. Industry partnerships may come in the form of donation of expertise, technologies, or graduate student stipends. Mutually beneficial collaborations with other university faculty members, international visitors and scientists, and non-profits are also welcome. Send a Holstein to College To increase the genetic potential of the herd at the WKU SmartHolstein Lab, Holstein Association USA members are invited to donate Registered Holstein animals or embryos through the Send a Holstein to College program. This is a great way for members to help lead the way in the future of Holstein research! To be considered for the herd, animals must be under three years of age, genomic tested, and free of haplotypes impacting fertility. Additional genetic is as follows: cows >2500 TPI®, heifers >2600 TPI®, female sexed embryo Parent Average >2700 TPI®. Those who donate animals will receive permanent on-site recognition, recognition on the SmartHolstein website, and a picture of their cow fully decked out with the latest sensors. The donation is tax deductible. Donors can also follow the research their cow is involved in on social media and are welcome to visit anytime to see the latest technology. To nominate an animal for the program or learn more, download the form at www.smartholstein.com. Animal nominations are due by December 1, 2021. Central collection points will be determined for the animals for transportation, and animals should arrive by December 31, 2021. If you need any help registering animals or questions about any of the HAUSA products or services, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
Max & Mandi Max Dunseth Regional Sales Representative - HAUSA 269-251-0232 • mdunseth@holstein.com Mandi Kipp Regional Sales Representative - HAUSA Upper Peninsula of Michigan 920-530-5023 • mkipp@holstein.com
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Michigan Dairy Cattle News
Fall 2021
