A S P E C I A L S U P P L E M E N T T O T H E H U R O N D A I LY T R I B U N E
January 15, 2022
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Upper Thumb dairy herd among 7 recognized for reproductive efficiency CENTRALSTAR COOPERATIVE Seven herds with 12-month pregnancy rates of 34 percent or higher were recently recognized with the CentralStar Cooperative ReproStar Award. Deluur Future, Marlette, Mich.; Rademacher-Meier Dairy, Sun Prairie, Wis.; Reid Dairy Farm, Jeddo, Mich.; Latham Dairy, LLC, Boscobel, Wis.; Lew-Max LLC, Belding, Mich.; Luckwaldt Agriculture, Inc., Woodville, Wis. and Blue Star Dairy, DeForest,
Wis. are the most recent recipients. “This year’s winners not only have impressive pregnancy rates, but they excel in several other key metrics putting them far beyond industry averages,” said Julie Ainsworth, Coordinator of Dairy Records Consulting at CentralStar. “In particular, they do an outstanding job getting older cows pregnant. Mature cows typically present the greatest conception challenges, and yet this year’s winners achieved conception rates for third
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michigansthumb.com and greater lactation cows of over 44 percent, while the average for this lactation group in all Midwest herds as reported by DRMS (Dairy Records Management Systems) is 33 percent.” While the award winners have different approaches to achieving reproductive efficiency, a shared strategy includes genetic selection for health and fertility traits. Focusing on these indexes can improve cow health, while minimizing the adverse influences of common dairy cattle ailments. Healthier cows lead to improved reproductive success, ultimately improving a dairy’s overall reproductive efficiency. Established in 2019, the ReproStar Award recognizes producers for their accomplishments with reproductive efficiency. A panel of judges evaluates each dairy’s data for multiple factors known to influence pregnancy rates when selecting the winners. “We know the most profitable dairies have commonalities; one of which is a high pregnancy rate,” said Kelly Bristle, Director Member Relations and Promotions. “While genetics and reproduction are at the heart of what we do, CentralStar is invested in the long-term success and profitability of our customers so
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creating a recognition program around this key profitability factor was a natural fit.” More details regarding the management practices this year’s ReproStar winners use to achieve high reproductive efficiency can be found online (pages 16 - 19). CentralStar Cooperative Inc. was established May 1, 2019 as a result of the merger between NorthStar Cooperative Inc. and East Central/Select Sires. The cooperative’s goal of enhancing producer profitability through integrated services is fulfilled by incorporating an array of products and services critical to dairy and beef farm prosperity. CentralStar’s product and service offerings include Accelerated Deluur Future in Marlette was among seven recognized for reproductive efficiency by CentralStar. Genetics, GenerVations Pictured are Emily Middleton, Jason Franklin, Dave Lindberg, Bill Kolakowski, Hendrik Eggink, John and Select Sires genetics; Parr, Rick Gilbert, Sophie Eggink, and Dr. Lauren Lauwers.(CentralStar/Courtesy Photo) artificial insemination (A.I.) service; genetic, reproduction, and dairy records consultation; DHI services; diagnostic testing; herd-management products; research and development; and more. CentralStar’s administration and warehouse facilities are in Lansing, Mich., and Waupun, Wis., with laboratories in Grand Ledge, Mich., and Kaukauna, Wis. For more information, visit CentralStar Cooperative Inc. at www.mycentralstar. com.
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Educational sessions, exhibitor showcase, and producer networking will round out the annual two-day conference, with several sessions featuring Michigan State University Extension educators. The 20th annual Great Lakes Regional Dairy Conference (GLRDC) offers dairy producers the opportunity to learn new strategies and tools to help their farm thrive. Producers will hear about ways to increase their bottom line and get the latest updates on issues facing the dairy industry. The conference will take place Feb. 3-4, 2022 at the Bavarian Inn and Conference Center in Frankenmuth, Mich. Dairy producers must constantly update and hone their skills in cow management, land and resource management, and people management. This year’s GLRDC offers sessions to help producers in all these management areas position their operation for success. GLRDC also is a unique opportunity for networking among producers and industry representatives. Volatile feed costs have squeezed dairy producers across the Great Lakes region in the past few years. Join our panel as we discuss how new research results and insights from fellow producers can help you to stabilize feed costs
and get the most out of your feed investments. Several sessions will feature presentations and speakers from Michigan State University Extension, including Thursday morning’s session that will discuss Strategies to get the most out of your feed dollar. Throughout the two-day conference, producers will also learn: strategies to find the right balance between nutrition and economics. the latest in colostrum
management and strategies to ensure healthy calves for the future from Tom Earleywine. how to position their dairy for success during this economic reset with David Kohl of AgriVisions LLC, who will share his expertise on the global and domestic economy, land values, cash rent, and more. recommendations for forage alternatives to reduce risk, improve soil health and increase feed
michigansthumb.com quality with Thomas Kilcer from Advanced Ag Systems LLC. the latest technology for dairies and recommendations for deciding why, what and how technology should be incorporated into the farm from Trevor DeVries from the University of Guelph. fellow producer Lee Kinnard of Kinnard Farms sharing his view from the other side of the lake. He helps manage their 8,200 cows, 7,000 heifers and 10,750 acres with a focus on sustainability and profitability. strategies to recruit, retain and develop employees to grow with the dairy operation. how implementing sustainability strategies is critical to help achieve climate neutrality, better optimize water usage, and improve water quality from Sara Place of Elanco Animal Health. how to harness great leadership to thrive in the future from Bob Milligan with Dairy Strategies LLC. personal strategies from Thomas Kilcer and other producers on utilizing winter forages to increase profits and improve soil health, while overcoming double cropping challenges. the latest in heifer reproduction to meet age at conception goals and better manage feed costs associated with raising heifers with Joseph Dalton from the University of Idaho. The conference also includes an exhibitor showcase; industry and producer networking reception; the Michigan Holstein Association annual meeting; the Michigan Dairy Industry Banquet and an energizing presentation, “If I can” from Chris Koch. Chris,
born and raised on a farm in Alberta, was born without arms and legs and used this challenge to fuel his dreams. This motivational presentation is sure to leave attendees inspired to build the life they dream of. The conference also features an informal preconference session hosted by the United Dairy Industry of Michigan (UDIM), who will share an overview of organization’s dairy promotional activities. The pre-conference session is free and open to anyone, including those not registered for the conference. In addition to the exceptional educational sessions, attendees can connect with various agricultural companies, and purchase heifers and cows through Kreeger and Associates GLRDC All Breeds Online Exchange on Thursday and Friday. Adult, student and farm registration options are available. Register by Jan. 23, 2022, to receive a discount of up to $25 a day. Online registration closes at midnight on Jan. 30, 2022. On-site registration is subject to availability. For more information or to register online, visit www.glrdc.org. To register by phone, call 989-6663773. This article was published by Michigan State University Extension. For more information, visit https://extension. msu.edu. To have a digest of information delivered straight to your email inbox, visit https:// extension.msu.edu/ newsletters. To contact an expert in your area, visit https://extension. msu.edu/experts, or call 888-MSUE4MI (888-6783464).
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Did you know? Oxygen is essential for the roots of grass to breathe and grow strong enough to support healthy lawns. But according to the Center for Agriculture, Food and the Environment at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, compacted soil can produce a decrease in oxygen content that can make it hard for roots to thrive. Soil compaction can result from a number of activities, including walking on grass or driving or parking vehicles on grass. When soil is compacted, it breaks into small particles that reduce the amount of pore space in the soil. That makes it hard for water, oxygen and nutrients to get through, threatening the strength of the roots and putting the grass in jeopardy. Aerating a lawn can help homeowners foster strong root growth and healthy grass. When to aerate may be contingent upon local climate, so homeowners who suspect the soil in their yards is compact should consult with a local landscaping professional to determine the best time to aerate their lawns.
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New MSU Extension field crops educator in Huron County JENNA FALOR MICHIGAN STATE UNIVERSITY EXTENSION
Hello. I would like to take this opportunity to introduce myself. My name is Jenna Falor and I am a new field crops educator for Michigan State University Extension based out of the Huron County office in Bad Axe, Michigan. I will be serving the Thumb region and have a focus on field crops and nutrient management. I started with MSU Extension at the beginning of November 2021. A little background on myself
for those who do not know me. I grew up in Eagle, Michigan, on a small hobby farm with approximately 60 brood cows and some field crops, grown mostly for feed. I went to Michigan State University for my undergraduate degree in agribusiness management with a minor in agronomy. Following graduation, I went into the industry working as a sales trainee for Dow AgroSciences. While there, I started working on my masters in agronomy from Iowa State University through their distance education program designed for
Jenna Falor has a background in crop and animal agriculture. Her role will focus on field crops and nutrient management in the Upper Thumb. (MSUE/Courtesy Photo)
michigansthumb.com working professionals. My project was creating a learning module on the effects of manure application on nutrient loss, which focused primarily on phosphorus loss. I moved to the Thumb back in 2016 while working for a specialty fertilizer and biostimulants company before switching gears and spending the last five and a half years working for Active Feed Company in Pigeon, Michigan, as a feed sales specialist doing sales and ruminant nutrition work. I learned a lot in that job and enjoyed working with cattle but discovered my passion is working in agronomy. I am excited to work with all of you on any agronomic concerns or questions you may have, including nutrient management. I understand nutrient management, and the regulations that go with it, is not everyone’s favorite topic. I hope to be able to be a resource for you so as regulations and technologies change and evolve, we can help make some of the changes a little less painful. My goal as a field crops educator is to make sure MSU Extension remains relevant for those that utilize us, and
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hopefully become another expert team member for you I understand you have a lot of options to look to for information including the agribusiness professionals you already use; I hope we can be an additional support. While I cannot promise to accommodate every request, if you have any suggestions for ways MSU Extension and I can provide useful information, please feel free to reach out. If you have any questions concerning field crops or nutrient management or have ideas of ways MSU Extension can better serve you, the farmers of the community, please contact me. I look forward to this next chapter of my career and serving the community in this role. This article was published by Michigan State University Extension. For more information, visit https:// extension.msu.edu. To have a digest of information delivered straight to your email inbox, visit https:// extension.msu.edu/newsletters. To contact an expert in your area, visit https://extension.msu.edu/experts, or call 888-MSUE4MI (888-6783464).
SATURDAY, JANUARY 15, 2022
Did you know? Supporting small businesses ensures more money stays in the communities those businesses serve. The U.S. Small Business Administration says $48 out of every $100 spent at a small business stays in the community. On the flip side, when a person spends $100 at a big-box store or a national chain, only $14 remains in the community. Local businesses are more likely to utilize other local businesses, such as banks, service providers and even farms. Small businesses also pay employees, many of whom are local and shop local, thereby keeping even more dollars in their communities.
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Research drilldown: The FYI on BLV: What you need to know to keep your herd healthy If dairying were as easy as milking a cow and collecting income on the milk, everyone would be doing it. Right? The reality is that dairy farmers have an extensive list of tasks – among them are efforts to protect animal health and welfare. Producers may have a refrigerator full of vaccines and medicines to deal with a host of diseases that can affect the health, welfare, and productivity of their cows. But what if they are treating one ailment because a different, undetected virus is impairing the animal’s immune system? You will not find a vaccine or medicine labeled to treat Bovine Leukemia Virus (BLV), but in some cases, it is the hidden culprit If the farm doesn’t test for BLV, the virus and any resulting illness or death will remain hidden as unassigned health problems. We’ve consistently heard from producers about how some animals do great on the farm – until they don’t. These animals produce milk and may have repeated treatments for poor health, but nothing that stands out in management systems. Then one day, the animal stops – stops lactating, maintaining health, or even living. These animals are found to be BLV-positive animals, finally succumbing to the effects of the virus. Let’s dive further into this virus and how it can be managed. Enzootic Bovine Leukosis is a contagious disease in cattle caused by BLV
Today, 21 countries have eradicated the disease by testing and removing animals that showed an immune response to the virus. The U.S. and Canada ignored eradication measures in the 1970’s when overall infection rates were below 10%. Today, most U.S. dairy farms have BLV with upwards of 50% of cattle on each farm testing positive for BLV. There is currently no cure or vaccine available, and infected cattle will carry the virus for life. While animals infected with BLV may not show any indications of carrying the disease, other profit-related issues may arise. Cows infected with BLV suffer from the following consequences: Decreased milk production. We see that first lactation milking heifers typically produce the same amount of milk regardless of infection. However, as the BLV- infected cow ages, she exhibits lower milk production than her noninfected herd mates. In general, a higher BLV herd prevalence is associated with a lower rolling herd average, and infected cows have a lower predicted 305day mature equivalent milk yield. Also, genetically superior animals infected with BLV under-perform their estimated genetic potential. Decreased lifetime within the herd. BLV-infected cows are likely to be removed from the herd earlier than their uninfected herd mates (i.e., have a lower herd longevity). As
such, BLV-infected cows often have a lower economic return due to a shortened productive life. Moreover, consumer perception of animal welfare issues may be raised around BLV prevalence on U.S. dairy farms. Decrease reproductive success. Cows infected with BLV need to be bred more times to obtain a pregnancy and have longer calving intervals. In rare cases, BLV-infected cows may develop tumors in the uterus resulting in the inability to become pregnant. Risk of slaughter condemnation. Tumor development may occur in animals with high levels of virus. These tumors are the main reason for carcass condemnation at slaughter by USDA inspectors. Negative economic impacts. It is challenging to estimate the true economic impact of BLV, given the multitude of underlying and confounding factors. In 2017, our team estimated an annual loss of approximately $283 per milking cow, resulting in a $2.7 billion national deficit due to BLV. Bovine Leukemia Virus: A Hidden but Damaging Infection BLV is a virus that integrates into cattle DNA. The virus favors integration into a type of lymphocyte, the B-cell. These immune cells are best known for their ability to produce antibodies against pathogens. By integrating - or hiding within the cattle’s own cells,
michigansthumb.com BLV can remain undetected by the animal’s immune system leading to a persistent, life-long infection. Within a few weeks after initial infection, the animal typically maintains a normal number of lymphocytes but antibodies to the virus can already be detected. Antibodies to BLV indicate that the animal’s immune system has identified BLV as a stowaway and has started to create mechanisms to recognize and potentially fight the hidden invader. At this point, however, the virus remains hidden, or latent, without doing much damage. Most cattle infected with BLV can be found in this stage of bovine leukosis and lack any sign of illness. These cattle simply act as carriers of the virus. After a period of hiding, ranging from months to years, BLV begins replicate. Approximately one-third of cattle infected with BLV will exhibit an increased number of blood lymphocytes due to abnormal replication of BLVinfected cells. This phase of BLV replication leads to a decrease in immune system function – allowing other pathogens or infections to develop. An ongoing study has collected samples from groups of cattle across multiple Michigan dairy farms, and we have found that animals with BLV suffer an impaired response to vaccines. These cattle may become ill due to a wide variety of ailments or suffer health issues, such as lameness and mastitis, due to immune system dysregulation caused by BLV. Less than 5% of BLV-infected cattle will develop dramatically elevated lymphocyte numbers, tumors (lymphosarcoma), and death due to BLV infections. Animals suffering terminal stages of bovine leukosis are characterized by loss of body condition and overall weakness preceding death. Tumors associated with BLV infection are one of the leading causes of carcass condemnations in U.S. dairy cattle. Regardless of
stage of disease, animal welfare continues to be of concern, as do associated effects on cattle health and productivity. The disease progresses differently in each animal. Sometimes the disease generates tumors and leads to death, while other cattle simply harbor the virus, showing no direct signs of illness – all the while spreading the virus to their herd mates. Tools and Management Strategies to Reduce BLV Michigan State University scientists and their collaborators continue to work with producers across the country to study bovine leukosis, viral progression, and management strategies for a healthier, more productive herd. Our team has established management tools and protocols to identify the most infectious cattle for removal, even when removal of all infected animals is not economically viable. Once BLV prevalence falls to a low level, the farm may then opt to remove all infected cattle to “Move to Zero” and become a BLV-free herd. Management strategies should also include prevention of new infections through proper calf care, testing of purchased replacements, and potentially segregation of infected animals. Preventing Transmission The most recognized route of BLV infection is transmission of infected lymphocytes (via blood) from one animal to another. While the tiniest drop of blood can be sufficient to cause infection, it’s more likely that repeated blood-to-blood exposures ultimately lead to BLV transmission between animals. Small amounts of blood can be transferred when using the same equipment between animals for injections, rectal palpations, foot trims, ear tagging, tattooing, dehorning, and other procedures. Singleuse needles and reproductive exam sleeves are often
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Bovine leukemia virus is a contagious disease that is often undiagnosed and robs many herds of health and productivity.(Courtesy Images via MSUE) recommended, and the use of fly control has also been shown to reduce BLV infections. Calves can become infected by consuming BLV- infected
colostrum. Freezing or pasteurizing colostrum will kill the virus, preventing BLV replication. Therefore, using processed colostrum or milk
replacer will reduce the risk of transmission. Colostrum collected from BLV-infected dams contains maternal BLV antibodies, and studies
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surprisingly, genetics play a role in an animal’s response to BLV infection. One important and have indicated that calves fed diverse DNA region is known colostrum with maternal BLV as the bovine leukocyte antigen antibodies may be protected from advanced stages of bovine (BoLA) gene. Research suggests that leukosis. Research to investigate the best calf feeding regimen for some versions of the gene are associated with BLV resistance, animal longevity and health is defined as maintaining a low an important ongoing effort. amount of virus even after Bovine leukemia virus has prolonged BLV infection. been found in nasal secretions Conversely, other versions and saliva, but at a much of this gene may increase lower concentration than susceptibility to BLV infection. that found in the blood of an One avenue of research is infected animal. A low risk of examining a potential link BLV transmission may occur between BoLA and the with nose-to-nose contact, natural mating, or dam-to-fetus possibility of the removal of infected cells by other parts transfer in utero. of the immune system. As Management Strategies research to determine genetic Our research team, in associations related to BLV collaboration with CentralStar resistance advances, selection Cooperative, has developed a of breeding stock to aid in multi-step approach to reduce lowering BLV prevalence within herd BLV prevalence. The first a herd may be possible. step determines the herd’s The Future of BLV Research overall BLV prevalence by at MSU testing for BLV antibodies (by The MSU BLV research ELISA). Typically, this testing team continues to collaborate is performed on the milking herd through DHI, with owner- with external researchers to enhance our understanding of submitted milk samples, or in the biological and economic serum from submitted blood impacts of BLV. We hold samples. In most cases, the an annual “All Things BLV BLV ELISA prevalence is high Meeting” for the researchers enough that culling all BLVand interested producers, and antibody-positive cattle would we host an interactive website be economically inviable. The that serves as a portal for second step of the screening BLV information. We strive process includes collecting a whole blood sample from BLV- to collaborate with and learn from producers, providing tools antibody- positive cattle and and management strategies measuring the concentration for improved profitability of BLV (proviral load). This identifies the “super shedders,” and healthier animals. A subset of collaborating farms or the most infectious cows have followed our proposed that should be separated and management programs and are removed from the herd as nearing a BLV-free herd status. soon as possible. Success of Over the next year, we hope to these programs relies on how provide a low-cost monitoring aggressive the farm can afford to be in removing BLV-positive test for BLV-free herds to validate and maintain their animals, while preventing BLV-free status. Additionally, incoming infections from we hope to organize new replacements. recognition platforms for BLVGenetic Selection free farms to allow them to Like humans and other showcase their hard work. animals, the immune system Our laboratories and of cattle can respond to a wide research projects also provide range of pathogens. The genes opportunities for undergraduate important for proper immune and graduate students to function are directly inherited receive mentoring, carry out from the sire and dam. Not
research, and gain experience within the dairy industry. Over the next few years, we hope our work can answer some of the following questions: When does BLV transmission commonly happen and how is the animal’s lifespan affected? We have found that dairy cows typically exhibit an increase in lymphocyte cells due to BLV replication at the start of their second lactation. However, we believe cows are becoming exposed and infected with the virus well before the second lactation. We started a 5-year USDA-funded project in Spring 2021 and are sampling calves at birth, before breeding, 60 days pregnant, and at entry into the milking herd to determine when the animal first becomes exposed to the virus. By tracking the animal over 3-4 lactations, we will also be able to determine if the time of infection affects the animal’s longevity within the herd. What’s to be gained from reducing BLV herd prevalence? A study on Michigan dairy herds indicated that BLVpositive cows are 23% more likely to die or be culled than their BLV-negative herd mates over a 19-month period. Additionally, cattle with BLV are known to succumb to other diseases or infections which require treatment. Treatments or unexpected deaths provide an economic strain on the farmer. Beginning this fall, we will be incorporating producer financial data (TelFarm) and animal data from commercial farms for an updated, inclusive economic assessment of BLV. Our project will create interactive producer tools and economic assessments focused on the impact of BLV and the economic effectiveness of BLV management programs. What are the triggers that cause BLV to come out of hiding and begin replicating in an animal? The ability of BLV to make copies of itself is largely controlled by many of the same proteins that control the normal growth of B-cells
michigansthumb.com responding to a vaccine. We have evidence that stimulation of the immune system (e.g., vaccination) may cause BLV to begin replicating and increase proviral load. Although temporary, this increase may make such animals more infectious for a period of time. If these observations are validated, the results might lead to management strategies to control BLV transmission following periods of vaccine administration. What about BLV in beef herds? Bovine leukemia virus also infects beef cattle, but much less is known about its impact. Survey projects have found that BLV-infected beef cattle are at an 18% greater culling risk than uninfected herd mates. Within Michigan, 26% of breeding beef bulls between 1-10 years old were infected with BLV. In 2017, 34% of the beef cattle in the U.S. slaughterhouses tested positive for BLV, a 20% increase in 20 years. While transmission of BLV via semen is usually considered unlikely, there are major international trade restrictions on semen from BLV-infected bulls. Collaborative projects have been initiated to explore BLV prevalence and disease progression in U.S. beef cattle and genetic factors contributing to advanced stages of BLVinduced disease. Working with
beef producers, we can adapt management strategies that produced positive outcomes in dairy herds. The MSU BLV research team includes experts with wideranging expertise in genetics, epidemiology, veterinary medicine, economics, and outreach, all of whom are proud to work with dairy and beef farmers. We pride ourselves on listening during producer conversations, to enable us to conduct practical research that will promote the success of the farm and health of the animals. We are grateful for the producers who have collaborated with our research team and look forward to continued growth in these collaborations. Consumers continue to focus on individual animal health and welfare issues linked to products they purchase. The industry needs to act proactively to be ready to address consumer concerns. Starting the discussion of herd BLV prevalence, utilizing our economic estimation tool to understand the benefits of BLV management, and learning from other producers’ experiences provide the foundation to addressing BLV. We encourage anyone to reach out to a BLV team member to share ideas, seek advice, or look for more information. This article was published
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B Cells B-cells are part of the immune system, producing antibodies against pathogens, such as BLV. The top graph shows antibody producing B-cells in animals uninfected, or BLV negative (green bar) and BLV-infected (blue bars) cows. The two blue bars indicate BLV-infected cows at two different stages of bovine leukosis: aleukemic (BLV+ AL) and persistent lymphocytotic (BLV+ PL) cows. Aleukemic (BLV+ AL) cows have lymphocyte counts near healthy (BLV-) cows while persistent lymphocytoitic (BLV+ PL) cows have elevated lymphocyte numbers. Vaccines and boosters provide the animal with the ability to create antibodies to fight against the pathogen. The bottom graph shows 28-day bovine herpesvirus 1 (BHV1) antibody titer levels between BLV-infected and uninfected cows. Cows were given a normal booster dose of a commercial multi-valent vaccine on day 0. The level of antibodies against BHV1 were monitored each week for three weeks. Antibodies against BHV1 were lower in BLV-infected cows. Two other antibody levels were tested (Leptospira hardjo and Leptospira Pomona) and showed similar results. These results demonstrate a decrease in vaccine efficiency within BLV-infected cattle. Lower panel modified from Frie et al., Vet. Immunol. Immunopathol., 2016. by Michigan State University Extension. For more information, visit https:// extension.msu.edu. To have a
digest of information delivered straight to your email inbox, visit https://extension.msu. edu/newsletters. To contact
an expert in your area, visit https://extension.msu.edu/ experts, or call 888-MSUE4MI (888-678-3464).