Partnering with Producers for Success
Sometimes Simple is Simply Better By Steve Weisman
W
hether it is new construction or updating a dairy’s milking facilities, PBI Parlor Systems (www.pbiparlorsystems.com) has become known in the dairy industry as a leader in the manufacturing of milking stalls and equipment for dairies around the world. From the time he started building stalls in Anthony, New Mexico in 1989, owner Steve Peacock has been committed to helping dairy producers improve their bottom line by offering the finest, most durable milking stalls and equipment, along with the most exceptional ongoing customer support in the business. “ The business has cer tainly grown over the years,” says Peacock. “I started out being an industrial welder, and my goal was to be the best welder that I could be. Then I went into construction, remodeling corrals and barns and even built a couple of barns. Then a friend of mine, Jerry Settles, manager of Del Oro Dairy, asked if I would design a parallel stall for his dairy barn.” Peacock’s initial response was “No, because I had no clue.” However, Settles kept after him until Peacock
said he would do it! It took some tweaking, but after six months, they were both satisfied with the results. Peacock had hit a grand slam with his stall design, and over the subsequent years, dairies of all sizes, from small family dairies to large commercial dairies, have been fitted with PBI stalls. The business has grown to include customers all over the world. Today, PBI Parlor Systems sets the standard for milking stalls and related equipment. In addition, PBI stalls are engineered to be the best solution for maintaining cow safety and dairy efficiency. Among the international customers is Almarai in Saudi Arabia. “They have become a huge customer
for us,” says Peacock. “As a matter fact, when we first started working with them over 20 years ago, I and one of my employees went over to Saudi Arabia to help them set up their facilities. Since that time, we have sold over 40 sets in a variety of sizes ranging from double 10s to double 75s.” Much of the company’s success has come because of the PBI employees. “We are truly blessed to have trusted and loyal employees,” says Peacock. “You know, in the first few years, we kept tweaking our design, just doing little things to make the product even better. We worked very hard to make the system as effective and as simple as possible.” Whether it is new construction or remodeling an existing facility, PBI works closely with the customer to make sure that everything is customized to meet their needs. “Remodeling has become a huge part of our business,” notes Peacock. “We also do a lot of front-end conversions. The stall design gives the customer the capability of keeping their existing butt shields in most cases. This saves them time and money on a front-end conversion.” * Continued on page 57
American ÂŽ
In This Issue Vol. 44 No. 6 • June 2018
Columns
6 Publisher Statement Industry News 8
Trending news from around the dairy world.
12
12
Industry Features Guard Against Dehydration in your Dairy Herd By Bruce Derksen for American Dairymen Magazine
Whether discussing a beef or dairy herd, the fact does not change that food, water and shelter are vitally important basics of life.
20 28
20 34
Keeping Cows Cool with Sprinklers
By Michael Cox for American Dairymen Magazine
Summertime is upon us and with high temperatures set to continue for the coming months, cow cooling will play an important role on farm performance and profitability.
The Importance of Body Condition on Fertility
By Jaclyn Krymowski for American Dairymen
Most agree that body condition scoring (BCS) is one of the single most important tools to evaluate the overall health and nutritional status of a herd. What some may not know, is how BCS is almost just as important an evaluator for fertility.
Managing Heat Stress For Cattle
By Aly McClure
With proper environment management, heat stress can be handled effectively, keeping your herd comfortable, happy, and producing quality milk.
Sponsored Features
28 16 Global Reach,Down-Home Service 24 Connecting Your Cows and People 32
Tools to help Reduce the Effects of Heat Stress in Dairy Cows By Bryan Miller, Ruminant Technical Support Manager, Biomin N.A.
Heat stress is one of the most common management problems that dairy producers must overcome. Heat stress may be a temporary problem or in some locations may last for many months.
International Veterinary Supplies is based through the Midwest as they export veterinary supplies to countries around the world.
32 4
June 2018
By Molly Gildea, Dairy One
From crop yield monitors to heat detection systems to employee time clocks, there always seems to be a new gadget that will be the silver bullet for all of your management woes.
www.americandairymen.com
Publisher Statement American
Happy Dairy Month
®
Products and Services
Vol. 44 No. 6 • June 2018
A lot of things come to mind when I think about
President/CEO Gale McKinney
June; summer officially is here, school is out, hot
VP/CFO Audra McKinney
days, vacations, and who could forget it is dairy month! The latter in that long list is probably the
Group Publisher/COO Patrick McKinney
most overlooked, but for us in the dairy industry it
Publisher Dustin Hector
is a month where we get a little more appreciation……rightfully deserved I might add.
Associate Publisher Lissa Baker
As I was sitting at the table the other night with my son, yes another story from the Hector family, we were in a deep conversation regarding
Office Manager Dawn Busse
food we eat. Now remember, this is a deep conversation with a six year old, so it was as comical as it was deep. Nonetheless, we were discussing
Art Director Brandon Peterson
where different foods come from and since we were eating ice cream at the time that became the topic of our conversation. He asked the usual
Graphic Designer Teri Marsh
questions, “Where does ice cream come from?” My response was rather short and vague as I replied, “Well ice cream is a dairy product so it comes from dairy cows.” He nodded and asked what other foods come from dairy cows. I responded, “Well milk, ice cream, cheese, yogurt, etc.” As the list went on and on his little face lit up more and more. I asked if he had any more questions as he was nearing the end of his ice cream. He shook his head back and forth as he took the last bite. Later in the evening we went
Advertising Account Executives Kathy Davidson Mary Gatliff Lori Seibert Irene Smith Wendy Mills Joyce Kenney Ed Junker Kendra Sassman
to bed and he was saying his evening prayers and I hear the funniest thing
Circulation Coordinator Shawna Nelson
from his room. As he is praying he says, “God, I am thankful for the dairy cows because they make all my favorite foods, both the white cows and the brown cows.” All I could do was chuckle and shake my head. It was
for American Dairymen
Contributing Writers Bruce Derksen, Michael Cox, Jaclyn Krymowski, Aly McClure
one of those moments I wish I had my cell phone with me. While his appreciation may be more devoted towards ice cream it does show that our industry touches the lives of everyone! I too want to thank you (and of course all the white and brown cows) all for your hard work and dedication to our industry. The nation celebrates June as Dairy Month, but to you, every month is dairy month. No days off, no sick days,
Livestock Media Group 4685 Merle Hay Rd • Suite 200 Des Moines, IA 50322 877-424-4594 www.americandairymen.com
rain, snow, sunny, or windy you are all out there grinding, and for that I am grateful. From all of us at American Dairymen, we want to wish you all a happy and safe Dairy Month. Let’s raise a glass of cold milk and cheers to the best industry with the best producers around!
Best Regards, Dustin Hector Publisher – American Dairymen
6
June 2018
FEMA
©Twin Rivers Media, LLC, 2018. All rights reserved. This publication may not be reproduced in whole or in part, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopy, recorded or otherwise without the prior written permission of Twin Rivers Media, LLC, 2018. The information and advertising set forth herein has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable. Twin Rivers Media, LLC, 2018 (“Publisher”) however, does not warrant complete accuracy of such information and assumes no responsibility for any consequences arising from the use thereof or reliance thereon. Publisher reserves the right to reject or cancel any advertisement or space reservation at any time without notice and for any reason. Publisher shall not be liable for any costs or damages if for any reason it fails to publish an advertisement. Advertisers are solely responsible for the content of their respective advertisements appearing in this publication and Publisher is not responsible or liable in any manner for inaccuracies, false statements or any material in such advertisement infringing upon the intellectual property rights of others. Advertisements appearing in this publication are not necessarily the views or opinions expressed by Publisher.
www.americandairymen.com
Industry News
Tetra Pak® Separators with Encapt™ technology slash energy consumption by 40% Article courtesy of Tetra Pak® Tetra Pak has reduced the energy use of its separators by 40%, by incorporating a breakthrough pressure management technology, EncaptTM, into the systems’ design. The Encapt technology lowers the atmospheric pressure around the spinning bowl using a low-pressure pump, and the system is supervised by sensors that keep air friction minimal. Less friction means less energy required. Combined with a unique AirTight design inside the bowl, where the whole system is hermetically sealed to ensure no air enters. With the inlet at the bottom, and the outlet at the top it saves the centre for outlet flow, and so requires less energy. These two technologies together make the machines the most efficient on the market. Tetra Pak Product Manager, Ulrika Rehn said, “We want to help customers meet the challenge of achieving superior product quality with lower operational costs, and a lower environmental footprint. Most commonly used to separate milk or whey – the Tetra Pak Separators with Encapt technology, when paired with AirTight technology, offer incomparable energy savings. “Designed with built-in operational flexibility for different speeds and flow rates, customers can use the same line for different products, and achieve higher energy efficiencies
8
June 2018
than any other model available. In fact, they can save around 4Million kWh during the machines lifespan.” Speaking at the time of the a nnouncement, Holger Lüers, General Manager at Müritz Milch GmbH, within DMK group, Germany said, “This is a sophisticated combination that really works. The AirTight technology ensures energy efficient separation and a flexible flow rate to the line during a production run. Plus, the additional energy savings brought by the low-pressure technology is a real bonus.”
About Tetra Pak
Tetra Pak is the world’s leading food processing and packaging solutions company. Working closely with our customers and suppliers, we provide safe, innovative and environmentally sound products that each day meet the needs of hundreds of millions of people in more than 160 countries. With more than 24,000 employees around the world, we believe in responsible industry leadership and a sustainable approach to business. Our motto, “PROTECTS WHAT’S GOOD™,” reflects our vision to make food safe and available, everywhere. More information about Tetra Pak is available at www.tetrapak. com
www.americandairymen.com
Industry News
Optimize herd performance by balancing amino acid levels in rations Article courtesy of Pat Hansen - Adisseo Global Marketing Manager Insights on how to achieve optimal herd performance by balancing the amino acid levels in rations were provided by Chuck Schwab, Professor Emeritus, University of New Hampshire, and owner of Schwab Consulting, at the recent 2018 Adisseo International Dairy Workshop. The workshop provided insights and solutions for dairy producers such as the benefit of supplemental methionine, a required nutrient. Dr. Schwab focused on five key points: He reminded dair y farmers that while rumen microorganisms require rumen degradable protein, cows require amino acids. Therefore, the best dairy rations meet the needs of both the rumen microorganisms and the cows. Cows use amino acids in three ways: For protein synthesis, metabolic regulation, and the formation of non-protein nitrogen compounds. Dairy cows obtain absorbable amino acids from microbial protein (usually 50% or more), the rumen undegraded protein in their feed (usually less than 45%), and endogenous protein (approximately 5%). Of the 20 amino acids dairy cows use, 10 are essential. This means that sufficient amounts must be provided by microbial protein and feedstuffs. They cannot be created by the cow herself. Notable among these 10 essential amino acids (EA A) are methionine and lysine. These are the
10
June 2018
first limiting EAA. They typically are the first EAA whose requirements are not adequately supplied by rations. They will be the first amino acids to limit the cow’s production and performance. Schwab recommends using rumen protected amino acids to ensure that neither a lack of methionine or lysine limits production or performance. He encourages nutritionists to selectively use protein supplements and rumen protected amino acids to more efficiently and economically meet their nutrient requirements without wasting amino acids. Before using a rumen protected amino acid, he stresses the need to confirm its bioavailability: how much of the amino acid fed is absorbed by the animal. This can be done through a review of the research literature. He suggests paying particular attention to the results of work done using the plasma free amino acid dose-response method as conducted by researchers at the University of New Hampshire. This work has become recognized for its accuracy in determining bioavailability. Schwab says more research is needed to establish the ideal profile of absorbed amino acids at different stage of lactation and production levels. He also foresees that protein and amino acid nutrition will continue to evolve to more efficiently meet the requirements of the cow while allowing for lower levels of dietary
crude protein. For example, current research shows that the functions of methionine go beyond being a building block for protein synthesis. Methionine plays a role in production, health, and reproduction. And it does this by not only increasing protein synthesis but also by affecting antioxidant levels, liver function, the immune system, methylation of DNA and histone, and gene expression.
Guidelines for amino acid balancing from Dr. Chuck Schwab 1. Feed a blend of high-quality fermentable feeds and physically effective fiber to optimize rumen function, maximize feed intake, and maximize
the yield of microbial protein. 2. Feed adequate amounts of rumen degradable protein to optimize rumen function, maximize feed intake, and achieve targeted levels of milk urea nitrogen. Milk urea nitrogen levels serve as a tool to assess the adequacy and balance of rumen degradable protein and rumen fermentable energy. 3. Feed high-lysine protein supplements, possibly in combination with a proven rumen-protected lysine, to achieve a lysine level in metabolizable protein that approaches the optimal concentration. 4 . Feed a r umen-protec ted methionine to achieve the optimum lysine:methionine ratio in metabolizable protein. Fine tune the level fed, based on herd performance, to produce maximal milk protein concentrations. 5. Limit rumen undegraded protein supplementation to only what is needed. After peak lactation, reductions of 1-2 percentage units of dry matter are common with AA balancing.
www.americandairymen.com
Dehydration
Guard Against Dehydration
in Your Dairy Herd By Bruce Derksen
A
n old-timer once told me during a discussion on different breeds of cattle that a cow is a cow, meaning there is really no difference among them. Although technically true, there is always more to every story. Whether discussing a beef or dairy herd, the fact does not change that food, water and shelter are vitally important basics of life. But when discussing hydration in particular, just like with a beef herd, there can be many potential causes, including introducing new cows and heifers not aware of the routines and locations of water sources, dominant bully cows that guard water supplies and most importantly, the overall health of the herd but additionally with dairy cows, there is a greater loss of fluids and water due to milk production.
For reference, let’s look at some facts about dairy cattle and water. Approximately 60 percent of the total body weight of a cow is fluid, plus water accounts for about 87 percent of all the milk produced by each cow. Depending on
environmental conditions, a dairy cow will ingest between 30 and 50 gallons of water per day, of which 50 to 60 percent will be consumed immediately after milking sessions. Their regular day consists of only 20 to 30 minutes drinking, supplying
60 to 80 percent of their daily water as opposed to 4 to 5 hours per day eating, making up the remainder of their moisture requirements. Obviously, a large quantity of available good quality water is extremely important. If the previously mentioned obstacles exist, dehydration may set in. In early on-set a cow is able to maintain a disguise of normalcy and health by drawing on the natural reservoir of the rumen to maintain an average fluid balance, but as this reservoir becomes depleted, her body weight will shrink and if untreated a severe life threatening clinical dehydration can develop. Beyond the noticeable symptoms of dehydration including dull, sunken eyes, dry tacky mucus * Continued on page 14
12
June 2018
www.americandairymen.com
Dehydration
membranes, and slow responding skin tenting, dairy producers need to be aware of depressed immune functions, higher than normal reproductive issues including conception failure and early embryonic death or abortions. Watch for digestive upsets or scouring in younger replacement animals. Early recognition of dehydration allows a highly
a dairy cow will ingest between 30 and 50 gallons of water per day, of which 50 to 60 percent will be consu m e d i m m e d i at ely after milking sessions. successful response strategy such as timely immune treatments along with fluid drenching by the use of a stomach tube. In extreme cases, use intravenous f luids or consult your veterinarian if necessary. There are important preventative measures that should be put in place to fight against dehydration. As a dairy cow prefers to drink over half of their daily intake immediately after milking, provide access to moderate temperature supplies of fresh clean water upon exiting the milking parlor. If using a trough, allow at least 2 feet of perimeter space for 15- 20 cows. Cows are 14
June 2018
happy to drink standing side by side as long as they have a comfortable space and room to back away when finished. If using water bowls, there should be at least 2 per pen but do not place them in dead end areas making it tempting for dominant cows to guard them. Just as important as the amount of water sources is the f low and volume available. Cows prefer to submerge their muzzles in at least two inches of water. A lower level than this can deter them from drinking proper amounts. If water lines are too small and do not offer enough volume and flow, cows will lose interest, especially if there is congestion and jostling of position for the existing supply. Always keep water bowls and
cups clean and maintained properly. Stray electric voltage can be deadly. Lastly, have the water sources tested regularly by reputable labs with experience handling livestock and dairy operation samples for valid results. By using well designed facilities with sufficient numbers of water supplies that offer proper flow volumes, combined with diligent monitoring of your herd’s health and regular lab testing of your water’s quality, you can do your part in making sure dehydration is not a problem for your dairy. Be sure to consult your veterinarian if issues beyond your control arise. With ease of access to this most basic essential of life, your dairy cows will happily contribute to your successful operation.
www.americandairymen.com
Partnering with Producers for Success
TOOLS TO HELP REDUCE THE EFFECTS OF
HEAT STRESS IN DAIRY COWS By Bryan Miller, Ruminant Technical Support Manager, Biomin America
H
eat stress is one of the most common management problems that dairy producers must overcome. Heat stress may be a temporary problem or in some locations may last for many months. Heat stress results in decreased feed intake and reduced milk production. Additionally it has negative effects on reproduction.
Cattle prefer temperatures of 25 to 65oF (-4 to 18 oC). Heat stress develops as a result of both actual air temperature and humidity levels. Facilities, bedding, airf low and crowding will also affect cow comfort and subsequent milk production. Cows have very limited ability to sweat and their main process of dissipating heat is through heavier breathing or panting. There certainly are facility changes that can be done to improve conditions. Shade, airflow (both natural and fans) and applied water, either misting system or cooling ponds (cows must get wet to the skin level and not just the hair) can certainly help. However facility changes are usually long term ventures and dairy managers are often looking for immediate help or relief. Which leads to, “What dietary changes can I do to 16
June 2018
reduce the impact of heat stress?” In order to make dietary plans based on heat stress, you first need to be aware of how heat affects cows and how they attempt to deal with the problem. The most critical thing producers can do is to make sure that cows have easy access to clean fresh water. Water supplies should be in shaded areas that are easily accessed by all cows. As heat stress increases, cows will spend more time attempting to drink and water access that may have been sufficient in cooler times may not be adequate during heat stress. Typically during heat stress there is a decrease in dry matter intake (DMI). Many of the feed changes recommended are directed at limiting the negative effects on feed intake. Dairy producers should re-evaluate the diet’s protein content and
components. Cows having reduced intake may require a greater percent crude protein in order to be sure adequate protein is provided. However, excess protein requires additional energy for the cow to remove the extra nitrogen and may generate more heat in the process. Producers should also consider using less rumen degradable and more bypass protein, however, it becomes even more important to be sure adequate limiting amino acid needs are met, such as for lysine and methionine. As cows pant to blow off heat they also increase the amount of CO2 they exhale. This in turn affects (decreases) the blood bicarbonate concentration and can eventually result in lower pH. This is of particular concern if cows are also receiving anionic salts used to prevent milk fever as they also reduce blood pH. Dietary cation-anion difference, or DCAD, is usually set at negative value in close up cows to prevent milk fever but heat stress calls for a positive (+) balance. In addition as cows are spending more of their time panting they are www.americandairymen.com
also spending less time ruminating. This reduction in rumination time leads to a decrease in saliva production that provides much of the buffering that is needed within the rumen. Rumen pH drops resulting in poorer fiber digestion along with reduced general feed intake. If possible increase the ratio of NDF to ADF in the diet. If given a choice, cows will reduce their intake of forages and consume more concentrates. The bacterial fermentation that breaks down fiber also generates heat. Increased grain, with extra consideration for needed buffering, can improve feed intake. Yeast and Aspergillus oryzae product may help in the digestion of fiber, which is normally depressed during heat stress. These products may help to break down parts of the fiber that can then allow the total fiber to be more completely digested by rumen bacteria. Rumen bypass fats are often fed during heat stress as they provide energy but do not add to the heat increment. Added bypass fat may increase energy corrected milk but may not have much impact on total DMI, however the diet will be greater in energy content. In addition to ruminal changes, there are changes in the digestive tract as well. Recent work has demonstrated that during heat stress the lower digestive tract develops “leaky gut�. In this condition, the juncture between intestinal epithelial cells become weakened and there can be passage of material from the digestive tract into the body as well as leakage of material from the body of the cow into the lumen of the digestive tract. This porous digestive tract is less efficient at absorbing nutrients and has increased energy requirements due to inflammation as well. This more open gut can allow for the greater absorption of lipopolysaccharides (LPS) which are known to both decrease feed intake and cause inflammation. This inflammation not only takes energy away from potential milk production, but actually adds the heat produced by the cow www.americandairymen.com
herself. It has been well documented that the decrease in milk production that had been traditionally attributed to the decrease in feed intake is not only the result of decreased energy from the diet, but also increased use of glucose by the cow for purposes other than the production of milk. Additionally, heat stress directly increases inflammatory conditions within the digestive tract. Work in other species has demonstrated that drugs such nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) can reduce the inflammation caused by heat stress. Unfortunately, such drugs are not generally accepted for legal use in dairy cattle. However, there are new products that may offer some relief to help with the intestinal inflammation.
Phytogenic products, biologically active compounds distilled from plants, may help modulate intestinal inflammation. The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities of these compounds is well documented in other species. Recent work shows promise to reduce inf lammation in the gut of cows as well become a potential tool in reducing the effects of heat stress. Heat stress affects most cattle at some time during the year. The severity and length depends upon region of the country and the site specific conditions as they relate to temperature, humidity and airflow. Regardless of the facilities, nutritional changes can be made and certain feed additives may be used to help modulate and reduce the effects of heat stress.
June 2018
17
Water Sprinklers
Photo courtesy of http://www.modbee.com
Keeping cows cool
with sprinklers By Michael Cox for American Dairymen Magazine
S
ummertime is upon us and with high temperatures set to continue for the coming months, cow cooling will play an important role on farm performance and profitability. The economic cost of heat stress due to lower milk production and reduced liveweight performance is well known, and is estimated to amount to $6 billion across the country annually. One of the most effective methods of cooling cows during summer is the use of water sprinklers or misters in holding pens and feed lanes.
Te m p e r a t u r e - H u m i d i t y Index
Before star ting any form of cow cooling practices, dairy staff should be aware of the temperature-humidity index (THI) and how it effects heat stress in dairy cows. This color-coded index illustrates various levels of heat stress in cows, depending on two variables; air temperature and relative
humidity. Research from Michigan State University suggests that mild heat stress can begin at just 65 degrees F. Just like in a sauna, high humidity creates heat stress at a greater rate than high temperatures combined with ‘dry’ low humidity conditions. Milk yield losses of 5lbs per day can begin at THI levels between 65 and 74. As modern dairy cows are large, high
performing animals with massive metabolism rates; cows will feel hot and under heat stress long before people begin to feel uncomfortable. Therefore, it is important that farm staff pay close attention to THI and begin cooling cows before the onset of heat stress. Many modern water sprinkler cooling systems are fitted with sensors to control the turning on and off of sprinklers; effectively eliminating the risk of human error.
Low-pressure versus High-pressure
Cooling cows with water can take two forms; low-pressure sprinklers or high-pressure misters. Both methods reduce heat stress through evaporation. In the low-pressure method, water is sprinkled onto * Continued on page 22
20
June 2018
www.americandairymen.com
Water Sprinklers
Photo courtesy of http://www.modbee.com
the cow’s body, before evaporation removes heat energy from the cow’s skin. Generally, the sprinklers should run for 2 to 3 minutes and fully ‘soak’ the cow’s skin. The sprinklers should then be turned off for approximately 15 minutes, to allow time for evaporative cooling. Constant sprinkling will not cool cows, as little evaporation will take place and humidity will increase. Grazing dairies using center-pivots to cool cows during summer will notice how cows will self-regulate cooling; spending short periods of time under the pivot sprinklers before moving out to the pasture to evaporate and cool down. The situation is similar for confinement-based cows. Recent research from University of California, Davis, indicates that increasing the water f low rate in low-pressure systems does not have any additional benefits. The study found no difference in heat-stress or animal performance between cows sprinkled with 1.3 litres per minute, compared to 4.9 litres per minute. This is the first study of its kind to look at water flow rates, and the initial results should encourage further research to help dairymen reduce water consumption and 22
June 2018
increase sustainability. Under the high-pressure misting system, the mist evaporates from the air, and therefore lowers the air temperature surrounding the cows. Research from Minnesota State University suggests that a water pressure of 200 lbs per square inch is required to create a fine mist that is easily evaporated. This is approximately 10 times the water pressure required versus the low-pressure sprinkler systems. Different nozzles and filters will be required depending on which type of system is
Cooling cows with water can take two for m s; low- pres sure sprinklers or high-pressure misters. Both methods reduce heat stress through evaporation. operated. High-pressure systems can be run constantly if necessary, as the air (and not the cow) is responsible for the evaporating effect. As humidity is such a crucial factor to heat-stress, water sprinkler systems can easily increase relative humidity, unless adequate ventilation and air flow is in place
to draw in drier air and force out hot, higher humidity air. Fans can be placed close to nozzles to ‘push out’ hot air. In cross-ventilated barns, fans along the inlet side of the barn will control the direction of the mist and rate of air-f low. Generally, high-pressure sprinkler systems are more suited to drier, arid parts of the countr y, with low-pressure systems preferable in more humid regions. Regardless of which ty pe of spr ink ler system is insta lled, d a i r y men shou ld a i m to u se micro-sprinkler nozzles instead of larger nozzles. Micro-sprinklers are small greenhouse type nozzles which can spray water in 90 degrees, 180 degrees or 360 degrees radius. The smaller nozzles will allow for a more even spread of water across the pen compared to larger nozzles. 180 degree nozzles work well along feed lanes and typically spray water 6 to 8 feet from the water line. Nozzles should be spaced apart at a maximum distance of the diameter of spray, however it is advisable to place nozzles closer together to ensure full spray coverage, particularly if fans are used in the cooling system.
www.americandairymen.com
www.americandairymen.com
June 2018
23
Industry Innovation
Global Reach,
Down-Home Service Article courtesy of International Veterinary Supplies
A
licia Jaime can’t help but beam when she talks about the future of her company, International Veterinary Supplies (IVS). Surrounded by stacks and shelves of boxes – some imprinted with pink baby cows drinking from bottles – Alicia, who immigrated to the United States from Argentina, explains that it’s hard work to be a business owner, but extremely rewarding and exciting. “Ten years ago, we would have never imagined this. It’s really the American dream. We work hard, because we know how hard dairy farmers work.”
A lon g w it h p a r t ne r s Jo s é Samaniego and Jorge Aponte, Alicia started IVS in 2015. All three have extensive backgrounds in the veterinary supply industry. Together, they took the leap of faith to start IVS, exporting veterinary supplies to countries around the world, including Canada, Mexico, South Africa, Central and South America, Japan, Dubai and several countries in Europe. And although they have a world-wide reach, they chose to locate their operation in a suburb of Des Moines, Iowa, in the heart of the Midwest. 24
June 2018
“We all came from a large veterinary company based in Waukee, Iowa. We fell in love w ith the Midwest, the people and quality of life. When we decided to open our
IVS leadership, from left: José Samaniego, Vice President & Shipping; Alicia Jaime, President; Jorgé Aponte,Vice President & Overseas Sales.
own Company the decision to locate our business in Iowa was easy. Iowa is our home”, said Alicia. They weren’t alone when they took that leap. “When we made our decision to open IVS, Bankers Trust was the first company I called“ said Alicia. “I had already seen firsthand the way Bankers Trust was there to support the growth of another small company and I knew the bank’s employees were great team players.” Alicia and her partners were especially impressed by the Global Banking capabilities at Bankers Trust. “Bankers Trust is a local bank with the sophistication of a large, national bank. The difference is that the Bankers Trust international experts are right here in Des Moines.” In just over two years, IVS has experienced impressive growth and is poised for expansion. Its warehouse is at capacity and Alicia, José and Jorge all share a cozy office www.americandairymen.com
space. It’s cozy, but they’re proud of what they’ve built. When the three founders started IVS, they focused solely on international markets, which they knew well. Focusing on international markets has allowed IVS to sell U.S. manufactured products to international customers who might never have had the opportunity to purchase them otherwise, which has helped IVS to establish itself in the global market place as well as providing additional outlets to their U.S. suppliers. Disposable or reusable needles and syringes, designed and manufactured with aluminun Luer Lock hubs Now, they are turning their specifically for the animal health industry. attention on the domestic market. know exist. IVS is geared toward being! We love to talk to our custom“It’s kind of funny, our bankers large animal veterinarians, but also ers. In fact, some of them actually and business consultants from the provide services and supplies for visit our office and warehouse when Small Business Administration small vet clinics and family-run in town, even if it’s just to pick up a told us we did the hard part first — farm operations. They also offer a bottle of Udder Cream!”, said Alicia. exporting. Most businesses focus consultative approach to help users “Another example of our service is on their domestic sales first and make the best product decisions for our website. On it is a form cuswork their way into exporting. But, their operation. tomers can complete if they have we had experience in the overseas IVS partners with some of the questions or product inquiries. They markets so it seemed natural to us,” most established and respected appreciate that direct contact with says Alicia. veterinary suppliers in the world, IVS and information provided to With customers demanding a including Ketchum, LA-CO, Miller them.” wider variety of products all the Manufacturing, Dr. Naylor, Stone Orders can be processed via time, IVS has created partnerManufacturing, and Continental. phone, email or online. Currently, ships with vendors throughout “Most important to our clients is IVS is revamping their website to the Midwest and the U.S. to meet that we do not require a minimum be even more user-friendly, with customer needs. Through these quantity. It’s our customer’s choice streamlined ordering and an indipartnerships, IVS has given many if he or she wants to buy, say, just vidual personal account portal. A smaller businesses a means to sell two boxes of latex gloves, because “short-cut” app will be available for their products internationally and we’ll ship just two boxes. They a customer’s smart phone and tablet to grow their companies through appreciate that,” said Jorge. for even more convenience. “We increased export sales. “We export They have recently brought on a realize that vet supplies is a comveterinary supplies overseas and new staff member modities business. There are only really promote the for their domesa few ways to differentiate yourAmerican-made tic sales force, as self: product selection, price, and items,” Alicia said. well as partnered service. We recognized from the Everything is with a marketing beginning that in order to be sucshipped out of their company to help cessful, we’d need to be good at all Ur b a n d a l e , Io w a t hem tel l t hei r three, but we really focused on the w a r e hou s e . E ac h stor y and reach service aspect. And our customers week, José receives more of the North agree. It’s something we never lose items, does quality American market. sight of”, says José. control, and ships to “We k new we Constantly evolving and adding customers. Nothing could offer better new products to their inventoleaves their facility service than any ry is one of the things that excites w it hout t horoug h other vet supply the team. “Our goal is to offer the inspection. company. And, if best and most complete line of IVS prov ides you call our office, high-quality products, at afforda w ide var iet y of IVS carries a full line of animal markyou speak with a able prices, and with service that supplies that some ing sticks and identification products, real, live human can’t be beat. Working primarily on neck and eartags, and leg bands. veterinarians don’t www.americandairymen.com
June 2018
25
Industry Innovation
the export side of our business, I love to bring new American-made products online to overseas customers. They’re really happy with the quality and availability of these items”, says Jorgé. IVS is also an advocate for small businesses and the dairy industry. Alicia regularly speaks to industry and related groups. IVS has been recognized as a leader in the field, and is helping the next generation of farmers compete and grow in their individual operations. The U.S. Small Business Administration has
Not all bandages are equal! Unlike bandages made from plastics, IVS-brand bandages are made with lightweight fabric that breates, stretches, compresses and stay in place. So durable that you’ll use less bandage material per roll.
26
June 2018
selected International Veterinary Supplies as the 2018 SBA Small Business Exporter of the Year for the state of Iowa and for SBA’s Region VII (which includes the Midwest states of Iowa, Kansas, Missouri and Nebraska). Exposure is increasing for the team, and they’re seeing more and more repeat business. “I think it’s due in part to our personal service philosophy, and in part to increased efforts to get in front of our customers, whether it’s online or in person,” says José. “We have really been making an effort to
attend more trade shows. In particular, World Dairy Expo in Madison, WI. This will be our second year at WDE. The people there are fantastic, from the attendees to the WDE staff. It’s not just a place to sell products, but an opportunity to build and foster relationships.” Alicia added, “We like to tell people, if you don’t see it in our catalog or on our website, just ask or call! We can provide any item in the veterinary industry. Get to know us, and you’ll find we’re your one-stop-shop for all your veterinary needs!”
Calf weaners, specifically designed to stop calves from suckling.
www.americandairymen.com
Body Condition on Fertility
The importance of body
Condition on fertility By Jaclyn Krymowski for American Dairymen
M
ost agree that body condition scoring (BCS) is one of the single most important tools to evaluate the overall health and nutritional status of a herd. What some may not know, is how BCS is almost just as important an evaluator for fertility. A cow’s body fat reserves are an important resource for both her lactational and pregnancy demands, especially at parturition through her lactational peak. Monitoring BCS should be part of routine procedure performed at breeding, dry off, and freshening.
In the U.S. the BCS scale for dairy cattle runs from 1-5 and goes by increments of .25. The scale begins with 1 being an extremely thin cow and 5 being an extremely fat one, 3 is considered the most “average.� Body condition can be thought of as an estimate on where the animal stands in being in her overall energy balance, being either * Continued on page 30
28
June 2018
www.americandairymen.com
The First Hydraulic Corral and still the Largest!
New!
3 Sizes
Available!
Rawhide Processor by John McDonald
Rawhide Portable Corral 900 NorTh WaShiNgToN ST., abileNe, KS 67410
785.263.3436
www.rawhideportablecorral.com www.americandairymen.com
• Pull on highway at speed limit. • Fits through any gate your pickup will. • Stable on uneven terrain. • Wheels on each panel and electric over hydraulic jack eliminates lifting—saves time.
• Frame gates for sorting. • Transport wheels are permanent, no sliding off the axles and rolling out of the way. • Permanent sheeted adjustable alley.
June 2018
29
Body Condition on Fertility
positive or negative. Whenever an animal deviates from the ideal condition for her nutritional demands, levels of fat metabolism are impacted and are correlated with negative energy balance which reduces fertility among other issues.
The impact
Many studies have proven the impact of negative energy balance on poor ovulation and conception rates. One study reported that cows losing less than 0.5 points on their condition during the first 30 days post-calving took an average of an additional 30 days to first ovulation. Cows that lost 0.5-1.0 BCS took 36 days, and those over 1.0 took 50 days. Overly condition cows also tend to have longer calving intervals. A 1989 study in the Journal of Dairy Science also explored the loss and gain of BCS and its relationship in the first 5 weeks after calving and the subsequent breeding. The animal that averaged a BCS of 3.7 at calving took 27 days to first ovulation, 28 days to first heat, 68 days to first service, and had a 65% first service conception rate. Cows with a 4.1 calving BCS took 31 days to first ovulation, 41 days to first heat, 67 days to first service, and had a 53% first service conception rate. Cows with a 4.5 BCS took 42 days to first
30
June 2018
ovulation, 62 days to first heat, 79 days to first service, and had a 17% first service conception rate. This summar y illustrates how the cows with the higher BCS at time of calving also lost the most condition in the following month. This directly impacted their longer intervals to first ovulation, first heat, and poorer conception rates. In young virgin heifers, body condition is an important detail
As a cow approaches dry-off, specifically last 2-3 months of lactation, she begins to accumulate additional condition as milk production decreases. even before they are large enough to breed. Heifers that are too thin and unthrifty growers run the risk of not having sufficient resources to reach puberty at the optimal 11-13 months of age. Even if small under-conditioned heifers can reach puberty in a timely fashion, she will be a much higher risk for dystocia and metabolic diseases. Likewise, heifers that are too fat are more difficult to get bred. St ud ies have a lso show n t hat heifers that are above the recommended BCS at puberty may produce less milk as a cow and have calving difficulties.
Remember to monitor
The rule of thumb for optimal lactating animals is a BCS from 2.5-3.75, increasing as the dry-off per iod approaches. A s a cow approaches dry-off, specifically last 2-3 months of lactation, she begins to accumulate additional condition as milk production decreases. Cows that have been dry too long or are overfed when they’re dry are especially at risk for over-conditioning. Under-conditioning is often related to an animal that faces some sort of feed restriction either during lactation or the dry period. These can be weaker cows competing with stronger herdmates. Some animals simply struggle more than others to maintain and restore their fat reserves. An overbearing parasite load is also a major culprit for unthrifty animals. The optimal condition for cows at calving time is approximately within the 3.0-3.5 range. Cows within this range seem to have the most optimal milk production in the following lactation compared to their counterparts above or below. This range also provides an allowance for the weight that cows will inevitably lose within the first few months after calving. This way, a cow will fall back to a 2.5-3.5 range during her lactation and will steadily gain again as she approaches her next dry-off period. www.americandairymen.com
www.americandairymen.com
June 2018
31
Business Profile
Connecting Your
Cows and People By Molly Gildea, Dairy One
A
s the average herd size in the U.S. continues to increase, so too does the need for efficiency and the presence of technology on farms. From crop yield monitors to heat detection systems to employee time clocks, there always seems to be a new system that may provide aid for farm management challenges. Among these technology platforms are networking and camera systems. These systems can bring value to your farm in multiple forms. We traditionally associate cameras with providing additional security and monitoring of animal handling. They can be found in places such as the milk house, truck pad, basement parlor, holding and sort pens, crossover alley, and calf and calving pens. Cameras give you eyes in the places where you can’t be, allowing you to monitor your animals, your employees, and the security of your farm. However, the ability to keep an eye on your farm is not the only value we see cameras bringing to farms. Cameras can also be used as a tool to review employee work and procedures. Footage from cameras allows you to not just explain to an employee how work should be done, but can provide a visual teaching aide. They can be used to point out to employees where they can improve especially in places like the milking parlor. They can also provide an opportunity to point out the things that employees are doing well. Studies have shown, and farmer testimonials back it up, that employees who feel acknowledged, understand the importance of 32
June 2018
a procedure, and see the value they bring to the farm perform better in their jobs. Wired and wireless network systems are another tool that can bring immeasurable value to your farm. Networks keep your farm connected, allowing you to have access to your camera systems wherever you are. The sharing of cow data, records, and procedures throughout your farm’s management systems and devices is also made possible by these networks. Additionally, these systems can increase the communication ability on your farm, making things easier for your employees and increasing overall farm efficiency. Some of you may be thinking about the camera systems or networks that you already have installed on your farms, and the challenges they have
caused you. All too often camera systems or networks fail and leave a sour taste for technology in peoples’ mouths. The reason many of these systems do not function as promised is they were not properly installed. Technology systems like cameras and networks, require pathways. As more systems are added to a farm these pathways become crowded and jumbled, like the interstate at rush hour, and cause interference in communication. Technology has allowed farms to bring their operations to the next level. Tools like camera systems and networks can increase security, efficiency, communication, and connection. The key to making sure these systems bring you value instead of headache is making sure they are properly installed. An installation team that understands your needs, plans for the expansion and possible addition of systems, and is familiar with the farm environment is crucial to the success of any on-farm system. Dairy One helps build and manage information systems for many farms across the country. Networking, computers, camera systems, backup devices, and system integration are just a few of the services that we deliver. If you have technology at your farm that you wish worked better, or if you are considering purchasing new technology, we can help. Call Dairy One at 800-344-2697 or email support@dairyone.com. www.americandairymen.com
Heat Stress
Managing Heat Stress For Cattle
With proper environment management, heat stress can be handled effectively, keeping your herd comfortable, happy, and producing quality milk. By Aly McClure for American Dairymen
W
ith summer knocking on the door it’s important to remember it’s not “if,” but “when” will we have a prolonged period of heat and humidity. That is the nature of the season and dealing with the potential of heat stress in dairy cattle is more or less a management issue than anything else. Every area of the country deals battles short-term weather conditions – it’s how you handle those conditions that matter. A lot of people use the terms climate and weather interchangeably, this, however, is incorrect. Each of our communities and farms is affected by short-term weather events. Their long-term sustainability is affected by climate and climate variability caused by natural positioning and earth rotation. For example, dessert is a climate, windy with a high of 95 is the current weather. Your weather is also indicative of your local climate. Cattle born and raised in certain climates become resilient to the local weather patterns, but during the ex treme weather seasons,
specifically January-February, and July-August, it is essential to evaluate potential stress situations daily. You can do this during the summer by paying attention to the heat index. Remember, though, that dark-hided and finished cattle are more susceptible to heat stress than lighter colored and weighted cattle. The Cattle Comfort Advisor is a heat index that evaluates the weather conditions across the country and determines the potential for heat stress. The values do not represent exact temperature; they are a way to measure the heat and cold levels an animal is
being exposed to ranging -20 (cold Danger) to +120 (Heat Danger.) Cattle are the most comfortable when the index range falls between 15 and 85. When the scale begins to creep over the 85 mark that means it is time to start preparing and watching for heat stress, even changing your schedule to work animals during the coolest parts of the day. You can find an active map that is updated with the current index hourly at, www.cattlecomfort.mesonet.us. C at t le a r e t he mo s t c omfor table when t he outdoor temperatures hang around 35-75 degrees Fahrenheit. Depending on body condition, hide color, and hair length they do very well in this ideal temperature range. As the temperature begins to rise, they become increasingly uncomfortable. Cattle do not handle heat as well as humans do, they primarily have trouble when temperatures * Continued on page 36
34
June 2018
www.americandairymen.com
www.americandairymen.com
June 2018
35
Heat Stress
reach 90 and above. High heat conditions cause milk production to drop by a gallon or more per cow it will also decrease their fertility and pregnancy rates. Reduced feed intake during periods of high heat stress is critical to monitor with lactating and pregnant cattle. Whenever feed intake has diminished the nutrient concentration should increase to accommodate health and production. The best feed you can offer during these periods is a high-quality ruffage that will process quickly resulting in less internal heat needed to digest the feed. Care should be taken when rearranging rations, especially when reducing quality but increasing nutrients to avoid digestive problems such as rumen acidosis. The best ways to help your cattle through this time while reducing the opportunities for heat stress are as follows: • Access to fresh, cool, and clean water. A cows intake increases to between 25-50 gallons of water a day during high heat. A dehydrated cow results in reduced milk production
36
June 2018
and in more extreme cases leads to a dry cow. So keeping plenty of fresh water in front of her is a necessity. • A shady area to relax. Give her a break with the ability to cool down. Her body is working hard to continue to produce milk and grow calves. With access to a shady place to rest you will give her the ability to calm
Cattle are the most comfortable when the outdoor temperatures h a ng a rou nd 35 - 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Depending on body condition, hide color, and hair length they do very well in this ideal temperature range. down and reduce stress. • Ma x i m i z e t he ac c e s s to airflow for penned animals. With a minimum required air f low of 5-10 mph for optimum cooling, it is imperative to keep the cattle in an open and breezy facility. • Pest control for flies and parasites helps prevent the animals from crowding together, creating even
more heat, to protect themselves. • Work during the early hours when it is still cool so that the animals can rest during the heat. A lot of handling cattle heat stress is paying attention to the weather and providing adequate protection from the elements. Planned management and alternative cooling sources such as sprinklers are also a good consideration to have depending on your location and may make a significant difference in the comfort of your animals. Just as significant as managing the heat stress of your cattle is the heat stress on yourself or your personnel. Altering work hours to those of cooler times will benefit humans and animals alike. Make sure your staff is taking adequate breaks during stretches of high heat and hydrating properly. It’s never a bad idea to keep a few bottles of Pedialyte on hand. As we wander into the dog days of summer, keep an eye on the weather around you, making slight changes on a regular basis will keep you from having to attend to critical situations. www.americandairymen.com
www.americandairymen.com
June 2018
37
38
June 2018
www.americandairymen.com
www.americandairymen.com
June 2018
39
40
June 2018
www.americandairymen.com
www.americandairymen.com
June 2018
41
MARKETPLACE 42
June 2018
www.americandairymen.com
MARKETPLACE (509) 235-2780
www.americandairymen.com
June 2018
43
MARKETPLACE 44
June 2018
www.americandairymen.com
MARKETPLACE
www.americandairymen.com
June 2018
45
MARKETPLACE
www.americandairymen.com
June 2018
47
MARKETPLACE 48
June 2018
www.americandairymen.com
MARKETPLACE
Disposable Dairy Towels
• Extremely Soft and Absorbent, • We Manufacture the BEST Towel Available! No Other Towel Comes Close! • First Quality Materials and Seconds • Flat Pack, Multifold Sheets or Perforated Rolls • Controls the Spread of Mastitis • No Wasted Time Laundering • Very Affordable Pricing • We Ship Coast to Coast and World Wide • Dealers Wanted • Also Stocking High Quality Gloves
Call 800-446-6455
www.cloveridgeconverting.com (formerly Timmerman Supply)
20968 TR 51
www.americandairymen.com
June 2018
49
MARKETPLACE
MILK-EASY
TM
Faster Milkout of Slow-Milking Quarters! Put a Stop to Milker-Stripping Better Udder Health Easy to Use!
ADVERTISE HERE!
For as little as $49 per issue. (that’s peanuts) 800-682-3118
JOHNSTON PRODUCTS
517-546-6271
E-mail: milkeasy@sbcglobal.net www.milkeasy.com Reader Service No. 766
50
June 2018
www.americandairymen.com
MARKETPLACE
www.americandairymen.com
June 2018
51
MARKETPLACE
H E AT S T R E S S Have You Holding the Bag? FORMULA M
Daily Vitamin and Mineral Supplement
VITAMIX
For Extra Nutritional Support
Choose RFID from EZid!
Do you want to • Increase your efficiency? • Improve accuracy of data points? • Save money? Give us a call for details!
877-330-3943
www.EZidAvid.com • Sales@EZidAvid.com
Frank Lampley’s PRODUCTS 800•327•0727
Fly Control for Organic Dairies: The Best Fly is a Dead Fly. Better Yet is No Fly. Put in a Fly Parasite Plan this Year and achieve “the Yoder Effect”. For Recommend Programs go to www. dairyflyparasites.com or call 888-771-3276 or write us or email usefulfarm@gmail.com. Yes these programs work very well for non-organic dairies as well. Useful Farm Products, Box 4350, Homosassa Springs, FL 34447.
ADVERTISE HERE! For as little as $49 per issue. (that’s peanuts) 800-682-3118
LIKE US!
www.facebook.com/americandairymen
52
June 2018
www.americandairymen.com
TO ADVERTISE
CALL TODAY
800-682-3118 DAIRY CATTLE
OVER 100,000 SCC? WE CAN HELP! Safe, Effective, Fast. No-withholding results nationwide for 45 yrs. Call today 1-800-876-2500 or 920-650-1631. Resellers wanted. www.alphageneticsinc.com
MACHINERY & PRODUCTS NE W HOLL AND BALE WAGONS: I sell and buy Self-Propelled & Pull-type two/three wide models — H9880, H9870, BW38, BW28, 1095, 1089, 1085, 1079, 1078, 1075, 1069, 1068, 1049, 1048, 1037, 1036, 1033, 1032, & other models, parts, tires, manuals. Can finance/trade/deliver. Call Jim Wilhite 208-880-2889 anytime. www.balewagon.com
MISCELLANEOUS
WANTED: Old barns or barn lumber or old city buildings/warehouses in WI, IN, IL and IA. Cell 309-253-1317 www.barns-nboards.com or email at Dndfox@aol.com. THE BEST RADIANT FLOOR HEAT WATER TUBING. A must for new construction. Call for a free estimate on a complete system. Volume discounts. Compare and Save! “GUARANTEED LOWEST PRICES” www.mikesheating.com 1-800-466-4043
SILO DOORS: Quality Wood or Steel. Any Size Shipped Promptly to your farm. Hardware available. Landwood Sales LLC. 800-222-5726
Become Self- Employed with the high income of hoof trimming. We build stateof-the-art, fully automatic hydraulic layover chutes, furnish tools, equipment, oneon-one training from the best hoof trimmers in the industry. Financing available to qualified buyers. Since 1969. Call Bill at 806-798-9684 US Patent #5,669,332
www.rileybuilt.com
MILKING EQUIPMENT
Used Bulk Tanks Cooling Equipment Claws, Pulsators, Take Offs, Receivers
BUY • SELL • TRADE Website:
www.salvagehouse.net
1-800-844-5427
Readers of
AMERICAN DAIRYMEN also like
AMERICAN CATTLEMEN www.AmericanDairymen.com www.AmericanCattlemen.com
LIKE US!
www.facebook.com/americandairymen
www.americandairymen.com
June 2018
53
54
June 2018
www.americandairymen.com
www.americandairymen.com
June 2018
55
Partnering with Producers for Success Value is built into every PBI stall design. Low installation and maintenance costs make PBI stalls a valuable investment for dairies of all sizes. Plus the durable construction, smooth operation and labor saving design provide ongoing increased profits. Stall designs are adaptable to suit the needs of dairies of all sizes, no matter the environment. So, really, each installation is tailored to meet the specific needs of each facility. In addition, they are compatible with all brands of milking equipment. The Elite Parallel Stall is PBI’s signature stall and includes the following: • A hydraulic cylinder operates an entire row raising the headstalls to a full 62” clearance. High enough for even the largest cow. • The speed of lower ing of
The philosophy and commitment remain the same: to help improve dairy profits, while offering superior customer service. headstalls can be adjusted to your specifications. • Rapid exit allows cows to leave at the same time. • Counter weights are used on our divider gates. No springs to break or hurt your cows. • This stall is offered on 26” centers for jersey cows only, 27” centers with double index for mixed herds or standard index for Holsteins, or 28” centers for Holsteins. PBI also offers herringbone stalls on 29”, 30”, 36”, 38” and 44” centers. “We have found that the most efficient
www.americandairymen.com
size centers for a herringbone stall is on 38” centers. Here again, we build to suit the producer’s needs.” Peacock emphasizes again the simplicity of the system. “I think that’s what producers like the most. It’s simple, it works and they don’t have to mess with it.” Even so, Peacock will continue to ask those same questions. “Now today, when I go around and talk with customers, I will ask them whether they have any ideas for changes. Most often, they will tell me, ‘No! Leave it alone! It works fine!’” David DeJong, owner of Horizon Dairy near Hico, TX, has ties with PBI going back to his days in high school. “I have been a lifelong purchaser of PBI milking stalls. When I was in high school, we converted our old Herringbone into a PBI parallel Parlor and have not looked back. Every parlor since has been constructed using PBI stalls. They are extremely reliable, durable and trouble free. The staff is professional, knowledgeable, prompt and a pleasure to work with when you may need replacement parts or a new install. PBI is the first and only number I call when it comes to milking stalls.”
Meanwhile, John Verhaar, who owns Aquila Farms near Bad Axe, MI, totally agrees with Peacock’s assertion about the simplicity of the system. “PBI installed double 32s over 14 years ago. Today, they still look like new, and everything continues to work just like it’s supposed to. They are just so sturdy. I cannot see any reason they won’t go for
another 15 years.” Verhaar adds that service has never been an issue. “After installation, they checked with me, but I’ve never needed anything serviced. It’s such an open design and not a maze of gates. The cows like it and feel comfortable entering and being in the stall. My son-in-law, who has a dairy just north of my place, liked the system so well that he put PBI stalls in in 2013. They just are the best.” The track record of PBI Parlors and the positive response from customers over the years speak for itself. The philosophy and commitment remain the same: to help improve dairy profits, while offering superior customer service. From the free consultation and quote, through the installation and the subsequent customer service, PBI Parlor Systems is there for the dairy producer. June 2018
57
American
Scan to Subscribe! ®
American Dairymen 4685 Merle Hay Rd • Suite 200 Des Moines, IA 50322 877-424-4594 www.americandairymen.com
Electronic Service Requested
Presorted Standard U.S. Postage
PAID
Permit No. 152 Pontiac, IL 61764
US $3.95