Milk Producer June 2024

GENETIC GAINS

Future-Proof Your Herd

Embrace a proactive approach to the health and wellness of your herd.

Hold Your Herd to a New Standard

From software to smart reports, we’ve inspired dairy farmers with tools for a clear picture of the dairy cows they want today and for the next generation.

What can you do today to ensure a better tomorrow? Contact us.

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DAIRY FARMERS OF ONTARIO

6780 Campobello Road Mississauga, ON L5N 2L8

MANAGER, COMMUNICATIONS

Sharon Laidlaw sharon.laidlaw@milk.org

ADVERTISING

Pat Logan pat.logan@milk.org 519-788-1559

GRAPHIC DESIGN

Katrina Teimo

CONTRIBUTORS

ACER Consulting, Andrew Brooks, Ryan Dick, Katie Duncan, ACER Consulting Hannah Sweett, Jeanine Moyer, Robert Price, Christine Baes, Lilian Schaer, Christoph Wand, Veal Farmers of Ontario

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GENETICS & REPRODUCTION

ONTARIO DAIRY FARMER MAKES WAVES IN GLOBAL GENETICS

Tony van Lith’s story of building Valiant Dairy Genetics is one of ambition, trust, ingenuity and instinct.

plan for net-zero dairy genetics

U of G researchers looking to improve reproductive performance using activity monitors

Genetics and other advancements help foster better dairy farms

By George Van Kampen, Board Member, Region 6, Dufferin, Peel, Simcoe and Wellington, Dairy Farmers of Ontario. George serves on the Quality Assurance

Committee, Research and Development Committee and the Marketing and Promotions Committee, as well as the Ontario Advisory Committee for Milk.

As first generation dairy farmers at Geordawn Farms, my wife, Dawn, and I are always looking for ways to better our farm, whether it’s increasing production, enhancing efficiency or strengthening herd and calf health, continuous improvement is a mainstay of modern dairy farming. One area our family farm has focused on in recent years is the field of genetics and genomics, particularly with our Jersey cow herd.

We all know genetics plays a big factor in milk production and cow longevity and health. Picking the right bull can positively impact milk components, enable higher production, reduce the incidence of cow and calf illnesses and lower feed requirements over the long term. When thinking about production, using genetic selection to boost milk yield has had phenomenal success and has greatly improved breeding programs. We’ve seen this on our own farm when selecting proven bulls from Semex or Select Sires.

This issue has many examples of just how effective genetics and reproduction are helping cows develop traits to better adapt to changing conditions while maintaining milk productivity and improving herd health and cow fertility, all while protecting the environment. For instance, Lactanet has introduced two new tools to further assist producers in managing mating decisions. Through these initiatives, the dairy industry can continue to identify and manage undesirable genes, leading to improved herd reproduction, health and welfare, which translate to increased profitability. Read more on page 8.

When it comes to technology and artificial intelligence (AI), there are myriad applications for farming coming to the forefront. I recently met with a Holstein Canada representative who spoke about the prospects of using AI to classify cows and provide gait scores. We all know labour is getting harder to find and AI may just be

the tool we need to fill this gap. GEA Farm Technologies recently acquired CattleEye Ltd., an artificial intelligence system designed to quickly detect and predict lameness in cows. Another tool soon to be on the market is iClassifier, an Edmonton-based developer of AI-powered livestock classification technology. It works by performing livestock classification using image analysis. iClassifier says it will offer a unique mix of products and services based on AI and automated imaging that evaluates livestock based on a range of linear body type traits. You can read more about these two products in this issue.

It is an exciting time to be a dairy farmer. I look forward to the day our daughter takes over the farm and what she will be able to do with new tools of the trade. With four kids in tow, she is already looking at creative ways to reduce farm labour. Time will tell how far genetics, AI and other advancements will take us in dairy farming, but the prospects seem very promising.

Increase profits, not headaches

From ever-evolving regulations to dietary trends and global producers penetrating Canada’s dairy market, you face a myriad of challenges. Let MNP help you capitalize on new opportunities, streamline operations, and improve your bottom line.

Richard Wright | richard.wright@mnp.ca

George Van Kampen

SELECTING FOR HEALTH

How genetic selection can be used as a potential mechanism for reducing disease in dairy calves

By ACER Consulting; Colin Lynch, PhD Candidate, Flavio Schenkel, Professor, and Christine Baes, Professor, University of Guelph

University of Guelph researchers wanted to estimate genetic parameters for calf disease traits, as well as better understand the current impact of calf diseases by analyzing the incidence rate of calf respiratory disease (RESP) in calves < 180 days and diarrhea (DIAR) in calves < 60 days. Calf disease data recorded by dairy producers via on-farm DHI herd management software were used for this study. The data included almost 70,000 Holstein calf disease records for RESP and DIAR from more than 62,000 calves collected on 1,600 Canadian dairy herds from 2006 to 2021. Within these records, about 49,000 (71 per cent) were RESP and 20,000 (29 per cent) were DIAR.

CALF HEALTH IS AN IMPORTANT CONSIDERATION for dairy farmers since disease not only impacts dairy calf health and welfare, but also links to their production, health and longevity as adult animals. Calves experiencing disease, such as respiratory illness and/ or diarrhea, are more likely to:

• Incur higher rearing costs;

• Have reduced average daily gain (ADG);

• Have an increased risk of calf mortality;

• Have an increased age at first calving;

• Show reduced production in their first lactation.

With growing concerns regarding antimicrobial use and resistance, researchers are continuing to look for novel ways to prevent and treat disease. Genetic selection has been a topic receiving increasing interest over the years since it provides a mechanism to enhance animal health, welfare and production. Turning to genetic selection as a way to improve disease resistance reduces the need for, and reliance on, antimicrobials for treating and preventing disease. While national genetic evaluations have been done in Canada on diseases, such as mastitis, hoof lesions, fertility disorders and metabolic diseases, there has been a limited focus on calf diseases.

When estimating the heritability for RESP and DIAR, results showed ranges from 0.02 to 0.07 and 0.03 to 0.07, respectively. Heritability refers to the amount of variation within a population that can be attributed to genetic differences and is measured on a scale from zero to one, with a heritability value of one meaning 100 per cent of the observed variation is due to genetics. While the heritability of the RESP and DIAR traits is low, it does indicate the potential for genetic selection. Researchers also observed a positive genetic correlation between RESP and DIAR. The correlation between these two diseases is logical since dairy calves experiencing a disease have increased chances of developing a second illness later in life. When looking at age of disease occurrence, calves exhibiting both diseases had DIAR occur first in 81 per cent of cases, meaning DIAR could be a potential precursor to RESP. Diarrhea specifically has been shown to cause dehydration, anorexia and reduced immune function, which are all risk factors for developing RESP. This is supported by previous studies showing calf diarrhea is associated with the development of respiratory disease .

The study also investigated the impact of the sire on the development of early life calf diseases. Sires were compared and ranked based on their estimated breeding value (i.e., their genetic merit). On average, calves born to the bottom 10 per cent of sires (those with the lowest estimated breeding values for RESP or DIAR) were 1.5 times more likely to develop RESP (or DIAR) compared with calves born to the top 10 per cent of sires. While RESP and DIAR both have low heritability, results show it is still possible to effectively identify sires who sired healthier daughters. Therefore, the inclusion of both traits in Canadian national selection indices could help improve the overall health of calves born on Canadian farms.

The inclusion of both traits in Canadian national selection indices could help improve the overall health of calves born on Canadian farms.

Another important result from this research showed calf disease data are not well recorded.

The results of this study showed 4.5 per cent and 2.7 per cent of herds on DHI collected information on RESP and DIAR, respectively. This means the vast majority of DHI herds in Canada were either not collecting or not uploading this information to herd management software.

In addition to incidences of calf disease not routinely being measured or recorded, there is also no standardized approach to recording calf diseases in Canada. The recorded data obtained for this study showed variability between farmers in terms of signs used to diagnose disease in calves, meaning farmers across Canada are using different definitions and parameters for diagnosing respiratory disease and diarrhea on their farms.

This demonstrates the potential for disease cases to go unnoticed or be misdiagnosed, impacting the accuracy of available data.

Ensuring recording practices are consistent and accurate will make genetic selection for improving calf health feasible. This represents a strong opportunity for the industry. Specifically, the results of this study identified gaps in data collection that should be addressed in future developments for the successful implementation of a national calf health selection strategy. While the potential for genetic selection of calf disease traits exists, good data recording will be the key to effectively implementing a plan to better select for calf health traits.

Research funded under the Resilient Dairy Genome Project, the NSERC CRC program and the Dairy Research Cluster 3 (Lactanet, Dairy Farmers of Canada and Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada) as part of the Agri-Science program of the Canadian Agricultural Partnership.

References

Schinwald, M., K Creutzinger, A. Keunen, C.B. Winder, D. Haley, and D.L. Renaud. 2022. Predictors of diarrhea, mortality, and weight gain in male dairy calves. J. Dairy Sci. 105: 5296-5309. https://doi.org/10.3168/jds.2021-21667

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Tools to manage undesirable genes

Lactanet

introduces two

new tools to further assist producers in managing mating decisions

By Hannah Sweett, Knowledge Transfer Specialist – Genetics Portfolio, Lactanet

MORE AND MORE PRODUCERS are raising concerns about undesirable genetic conditions and haplotypes, emphasizing the need for effective management strategies within their breeding programs. The genes underlying these genetic conditions and haplotypes have spread throughout the dairy industry, primarily due to multiple generations of mating that have also led to higher inbreeding levels. Once known, these genetic conditions and haplotypes can be effectively managed by avoiding mating sires and dams that are known or probable carriers.

However, as the number of genetic conditions and haplotypes increases, it is becoming harder for producers to easily check them all at once when making mating decisions. For example, there are six undesirable genetic conditions and six haplotypes affecting fertility in the Holstein breed alone.

Recognizing the significance of this challenge and to address producer concerns, Lactanet publishes all available gene test results and calculates carrier probability values for each genetic condition and haplotype. In April 2024, two new tools were introduced to further assist in managing mating decisions to reduce the impact of undesirable genes in your herd. Let’s dive into some commonly asked questions related to undesirable genes and the latest tools to help manage them.

What is a recessive condition versus a haplotype?

Recessive conditions have a known gene that causes the undesirable characteristic and therefore have a specific label assigned to animals that are tested to be free or a carrier of that gene. For example, the code for Brachyspina (BY) is either BYC for tested carriers or BYF for non-carriers. When the gene is not known, genotypes can be analyzed to identify short strands of DNA, called haplotypes, that are expected to include one or more undesirable genes. Some haplotypes can be undesirable and lead to embryonic loss, stillborn calves or impact calf development and/or survival after birth. The identification of these haplotypes allows for carrier animals to be detected so the spread of the unknown gene can be controlled. Both recessive conditions and

haplotypes are expressed when the same copy of an undesirable gene is inherited from each parent.

One such way of managing these undesirable genes is through the genetic test results for genetic conditions that are displayed on Lactanet’s website. In addition, a carrier probability value is displayed to reflect the likelihood the animal carries a given undesirable gene. A carrier probability of one per cent indicates the animal is very likely not a carrier whereas a carrier probability of 99 per cent indicates the animal most likely carries the undesirable gene.

Where can I find carrier probability values?

Carrier probability values are displayed on the pedigree page for each animal as found through the animal query tool on Lactanet’s website. In addition, a new pop-up window was recently added within each animal’s genetic evaluation summary, inbreeding calculator and pedigree pages on the site. This new tool provides users with a list of undesirable genetic conditions and haplotypes known in each breed, their respective abbreviation or code and the animal’s carrier probability values. If the animal has a known gene test result for the genetic condition, the carrier probability will be zero per cent or 100 per cent to reflect their “free” or “carrier” result. For other results, the displayed value will range between one and 99 per cent. By integrating this feature into pre-existing animal query and inbreeding calculator tools, users can easily access carrier probability values and make more informed breeding decisions. To view the pop-up window, simply hover over the blue circle with three dots at the end of the list of genetic condition codes displayed below the animal’s name.

To date, the dairy industry has made substantial strides in identifying and managing known undesirable genes.

Hannah Sweett

How can the inbreeding calculator help manage undesirable genes?

The latest feature of the inbreeding calculator considers known genetic conditions and haplotypes for the selected animal and identifies potential mates that have a risk of producing a pregnancy or calf affected by the undesired genes. The inbreeding calculator functionality will remain the same, but users will now see a new column with the header “GC” for “genetic conditions” on the inbreeding report. For the selected mating animal, this column contains a list of the genetic conditions for which there’s a carrier probability of 25 per cent or higher. For example, the image below shows “Sire A” has a carrier probability higher than 25 per cent for HH5 and muscle weakness (MW).

For the list of potential mates, a mating risk calculation is done to reflect the probability the resulting pregnancy or calf will be affected by at least one of the undesirable conditions or haplotypes. As such, for the given animal in the top section (i.e.: Sire A), the “GC” column beside the list of potential mates in the lower section (i.e.: Cow 1, 2, 3, …) reflects the mating risk by either remaining blank or showing a warning sign or stop sign.

• Blank column: The mating risk is below one per cent. This is the case for cows 1, 3, 4 and 6 in the example.

• Producers should proceed with caution with the mating since the probability of producing an affected pregnancy or calf is estimated to be at least one per cent but less than 6.25 per cent. This is the case for cow 5 in the example.

• It is not recommended to proceed with the mating since the probability of producing an affected pregnancy or calf is 6.25 per cent or higher. This is the case for cow 2 in the example.

Users can also view the pop-up window described above for both the animal and potential mates by hovering over each animal’s name.

What are the current trends in undesirable genes?

Gene test results and carrier probability values have helped the industry, including artificial insemination companies, to identify carrier animals resulting in proper control of undesirable genes in the population. For example, the percentage of Canadian Holstein females estimated to be carriers of five genetic conditions has rapidly declined since their discovery. The percentage of Canadian Holsteins born each year that are carriers is now less than or equal to one per cent for the five genetic conditions.

A similar downward trajectory is seen for the frequency of carriers of known haplotypes in the Holstein breed, including the latest discovery of the haplotype for muscle weakness. The frequency of Canadian Holsteins born each year that are carriers range from 5.5 per cent for Holstein haplotype 5 to below one per cent for Holstein haplotype 4.

In addition to the Holstein breed, there are known genetic haplotypes affecting fertility in the Ayrshire, Jersey and Brown Swiss breeds. Despite a general decline in the percentage of carriers in the Canadian female population for these haplotypes, they remain important for the non-Holstein breeds to manage, with five to 22 per cent of heifers born each year being carriers, depending on the haplotype.

To date, the dairy industry has made substantial strides in identifying and managing known undesirable genes. We can continue this trajectory with the help of the latest feature added to Lactanet’s inbreeding calculator. This update uses published gene test results and carrier probability values for the common genetic conditions and haplotypes within each breed.

What is the inbreeding calculator?

The inbreeding calculator has been available on the CDN/Lactanet “Genetics” website for more than 25 years and is frequently used by breeders when making mating decisions. Whether users select one female and one male, a list of females and one male or vice versa, or lists of multiple females and males, the output provides the pedigreebased inbreeding level and parent averages for the progeny that would result from each potential mating. This allows producers to effectively control inbreeding levels of future heifers in their herd.

Conclusion

As managing genetic conditions and haplotypes becomes an evergrowing priority in the dairy industry, Lactanet has introduced two new features to its suite of genetic tools. The implementation of a pop-up box to the animal query pages and inbreeding calculator provides producers quick access to gene test results and carrier probability values. Additionally, enhancements to the inbreeding calculator allows producers to view mating risks to reflect the probability of genetic conditions and haplotypes in offspring while simultaneously viewing pedigree inbreeding levels and parent averages. Through these initiatives, the dairy industry can continue to identify and manage undesirable genes, leading to improved herd reproduction, health and welfare, which translate to increased profitability.

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Increase your herd’s profitability

EastGen offers breeding solutions to improve dairy farms now and in the future

By Sharon Laidlaw, Communications Manager, Dairy Farmers of Ontario

WHEN DAIRY FARMERS THINK ABOUT GENETICS, they may not be fully aware of all the ways this growing field can make their dairy operation more efficient and manageable. Genomics is a valuable tool farmers can use to achieve overall dairy farm profitability. Investing in genetic testing provides producers a wealth of data about their cows and bulls, which they can use to implement the best breeding decisions. From taking advantage of improved traits to avoiding genetic defects, there are solid reasons why a farmer should think of adding genetics to their breeding strategy.

Milk Producer sat down to talk with Jamie Howard, director of sales for EastGen, who shared the latest trends in cow genetics, what producers should look for and how artificial intelligence (AI) will play a factor in the future.

What are the top criteria producers should consider in dairy genetics?

A. The first thing producers are looking for is profitable cows. But what makes a profitable cow? There are a lot of different definitions of that among producers. Our producers, and producers in general, are looking for cows that produce high kilogram yields of fat and protein. They also want cows that last and are problem free. EastGen can decrease metabolic issues and disease prevalence in a herd through traits Semex has cultivated through Immunity+, which uses high immune response genetics. Immunity is defined as the ability to fight off disease. We can test for immunity genomically and all other traits using genetics. Farmers are increasingly looking to this information to enhance the profitability of their animals because the less they are ill, the more productive they are, and the higher their fertility. When calves grow well and thrive, and they are not experiencing any kinds of pneumonia, scours or any other type of illness, they will grow more effectively.

Another trend in dairy genetics is figuring out how many kilograms of quota can be filled with one cow. The current metric being looked at is 1.5 kg of quota filled by one animal. The goal for a great deal of

dairy farmers is to get to 1.8 kg to 2 kg of quota filled per cow. This matters because the fewer cows it takes to fill the quota a producer has, the less feed needs to be purchased thereby making the farm more profitable.

How has Immunity+ benefitted farmers?

A. Immunity+ was developed by Semex as a result of research conducted in partnership with the University of Guelph 12 years ago. About two years ago, Semex enhanced Immunity+ by incorporating other portions of health antigens in dairy cattle into their patented Immunity+ index to make it the most comprehensive health index for dairy animals around the world. Semex brought in the nitric oxide element, which is important because the more nitric oxide an animal produces, the higher their immune response. Nitric oxide is the first defense of an animal’s immunity since it starts to fight off disease or illness. If very little nitric oxide is produced, then the lower the overall immune response and, conversely, if more is produced, then the more effective it will be.

Semex has also taken data from U.S. and Canada wellness traits and incorporated those into the Immunity+ index so when producers are looking at all those parameters, they can determine the overall immune response of an animal. Semex has done studies and collected data from animals that have been genomically tested and/or that have been sired by animals designated as Immunity+ and compared them with animals that are just average or low for immune status. The results are remarkable from the standpoint of health and immune response. We see a considerable difference in hoof health, mastitis, metritis and cow and calf pneumonia just by using Immunity+ genetics. The fertility data they see has also been amazing. All of this has made a significant difference in the level of disease producers are encountering on their farms.

If you are a dairy farmer and your primary business is to produce milk and produce excess heifers to sell to other dairy farmers, it makes sense to invest in high immune response (HIR) genetics. EastGen has Immunity+ bulls for every segment of the marketplace at no extra cost or premium. From a cost and economic perspective, it is a bonus to add (this) to the genetics you are already looking to incorporate into your herd. As well, EastGen is the exclusive supplier of Semex’s Elevate genetics testing platform that helps producers determine which cows to keep and which ones to get rid of. This is helping raise the bar in quality of animals being kept on farm and is helping expedite genetic progress in a herd for any and all characteristics, but particularly for Immunity +, which can further boost that profile.

Jamie Howard

How will AI play a role in genetics in the future?

A. Semex is starting to explore this area and they can certainly see AI helping garner intel and information to share with farmers on what genetics can do. We are in a different milk market compared with other countries, but we all encounter the same challenges. Fortunately, with supply management, Canadian producers have a favourable framework for a profitable dairy industry. Also, it provides consumers a very safe and stable food supply from our dairy products. One doesn’t have to worry about supply and quality. This is important for the dairy sector’s sustainability. I think it is crucial we look at progressive dairy operations around the world to gain knowledge, not just within own country, and what we can learn to better implement practices, from sustainability to cow health. In Canada, we now have a genetics test that can tell us which animals will give off lower methane emissions. It is always better to be proactive and stay ahead with research and data to protect our industry and show that we are ready to act. If we can breed cows to help benchmark and show how we have improved, this will bode well for our industries. AI can be very good for the dairy sector and consumers, which also ties in with DFC’s Net Zero goal by 2050.

How has sexed semen changed breeding?

A. We have been finding producers are having good success with using sexed semen not just on heifers but also mature cows. This can expedite genetic progress by breeding the best females on their farms to develop replacement animals and using the lower genetic females to breed to beef for other profit opportunities. We are constantly looking at what bulls are going to produce the most efficient animals while making the most marketable animals to eventually sell. We have customers today breeding up to 30 per cent, and even 60 per cent, of their animals to beef and getting females they need for their farms out of an increasingly smaller number of animals. This is a huge change from years ago.

Immunity is an effective tool to make gains in animal health. Launched by Semex in 2012, Immunity+ has enabled producers to raise profitable herds. The breeding tool came about after 20 years of research when Dr. Bonnie Mallard, from the Ontario Veterinary College at the University of Guelph, devised a patented test system to identify cattle as a high, average, or a low immune responder. Semex partnered exclusively with Dr. Mallard at U of G to introduce the technology. In August 2022, EastGen updated Immunity+ to incorporate nitric oxide and wellness traits into the formula.

What is EastGen doing to invest in farmers' future?

A. We feel it is especially important to invest in the future of this industry and in the future of our dairy and beef producers. We do that by having various programs, tools and technology to incorporate a genetic strategy for each individual dairy operation knowing they are not all the same. We are here to partner with producers for the longterm regarding expansions, differentiations within their herds, and segmentation within their industry, while making dairy and beef farms more profitable for the future.

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MORE THAN MEETS THE EYE

Innovative iClassifier tool unveils AI-powered livestock classification

By Andrew Brooks

BETWEEN HIS TWO JOBS of chief financial officer (CFO) and chief innovation officer (CINO) of iClassifier, an Edmonton-based developer of AI-powered livestock classification technology, Ghader Manafiazar, co-founder of the company, says he prefers the second title. It’s the idea of innovation that appeals to him most.

That isn’t surprising when you find out how innovation is hardwired into iClassifier’s DNA. The company, founded in 2021 by Manafiazar and two colleagues, offers a unique mix of products and services based on artificial intelligence (AI) and automated imaging that evaluate livestock based on a range of linear body type traits. (Linear body type traits build up a description of an animal based on images of its physical appearance and generate results in the form of numerical scores.)

The brain trust behind iClassifier is an impressive mix of talents and experience. Manafiazar is an animal scientist, assistant professor at Dalhousie University and a geneticist and data scientist at Beefbooster Inc. Reza Sabbagh, chief executive officer, is an adjunct professor at the University of Alberta and boasts a PhD in mechanical engineering, while chief technical officer Amir Alizad-Rahvar has a PhD in electrical engineering and data science.

Manafiazar recalls when the three of them discussed the possibility of performing livestock classification using image analysis. They first tested the idea themselves, capturing animal images at a local farm and then going through them to classify the individuals according to multiple linear body type traits.

“We came very close to the numbers the professionals get, just assessing animals using our own pictures,” Manafiazar says. “So, we said ‘OK, let's take the next step and use computer vision to automate this process.’”

iClassifier’s services start with the dairy cow classification service, which enables users to categorize and manage livestock based on conformation traits and utilizes a digital scoring tool. The health assessment system is being developed to assess animals for wellbeing and early disease detection, including lameness. The body condition score (BCS) service assesses body condition to optimize feeding and nutrition. All services are based on artificial intelligence

The company, founded in 2021 by Manafiazar and two colleagues, offers a unique mix of products and services based on artificial intelligence (AI) and automated imaging that evaluate livestock based on a range of linear body type traits.

and computer vision. The offering is rounded out by consultation, where iClassifier’s team helps users with product customization.

Automated assessment offers a number of advantages. It can be done quickly, reliably and consistently, and is objective. iClassifier says its classification service offers more than 98 per cent accuracy in rump scanning, more than 97 per cent accuracy in scoring feet and legs, and more than 95 per cent accuracy in scoring dairy strength using its standalone imaging product.

iClassifier is working on a mobile and desktop application for iOS and Android. The user sets up their own profile on the app and can create an account for each animal. They can then capture images on a mobile device and upload them to iClassifier’s cloud server, where they are analyzed. Users receive assessment reports with recommendations and can contact professionals for follow-up.

The mobile app is ideal for smaller herds. For larger herds over 50 animals, iClassifier is farm testing its other core product: an automated assessment machine. This is a physical stall equipped with AI-based imaging technology to assess aspects of animal health from body condition scoring to disease detection.

In addition, iClassifier offers JRun, a standalone device designed to capture 3D/2D photos/images across fields and store them in the cloud. Manafiazar says iClassifier will unveil JRun at the joint ASASCSAS (American Society of Animal Science and Canadian Society of Animal Science) annual general meeting, which takes place July 21 to 25 in Calgary, Alta.

iClassifier’s technology offering may seem complex, but Manafiazar says the company mission is simple: “to provide industry with a tool that can bring peace of mind to the producer and welfare to the animal.”

iClassifier’s services start with the dairy cow classification service, which enables users to categorize and manage livestock based on conformation traits and utilizes a digital scoring tool.

BUILDING BETTER HERDS

Breeding Has Been a Lifelong Passion for Dave Eastman

By Robert Price

DAVE EASTMAN GOT INTO THE BUSINESS OF BREEDING EARLY.

When he was 12, his father let him pick sires for their dairy farm in Kinburn, Ont. After studying agricultural business at the University of Guelph, he eventually came back to his first love: breeding.

“I was always drawn back to animal genetics,” he explains. The pedigrees, lineage and histories of the animals fascinated him, as did the science of what works and what doesn’t work in a breeding program.

In 1999, he made his passion a business when he founded GenerVations, an AI company. He eventually sold that business in 2014 to Select Sires. Today, he runs Validity Testing, a company he founded after recognizing the demand for fast testing of animal genetics. “The goal of the company is to provide great genetics to Canadian farmers,” he says. The company has since pivoted from strictly genomic testing to producing high-quality genetics for breeders. In the three years since it started marketing semen, the company has grown

to the fifth largest genetic provider in Canada, based on number of offspring born.

Over his career, Eastman has seen genomics transform breeding. In the past, farmers picked “the fanciest looking” bulls and hoped they would prove to be productive. “It was like high stakes gambling,” recalls Eastman. “It was so inefficient.”

When genomics—the mapping of a living organism’s DNA—entered the scene, breeders could see the mating potential of an animal in powerful ways. They could, for example, rank five brother bulls to see who would produce the most productive offspring. The genetic research told them things about the bulls their eyes and intuition couldn’t. Genomics has since turned the industry “completely upside down.” But in a good way. Farmers can improve their herds in remarkably short timeframes compared with the old days.

From Eastman’s vantage point, one way Canada can put its dairy industry on top of the world would be to genomically test every animal that gets registered. He says there is an parentage error rate of approximately

In 1999, Dave Eastman made his passion a business when he founded GenerVations, an AI business.

15 per cent in the Holstein population with some herds even higher; genomics confirms accurate parentage, which is the basis for solid business decisions. “Data is only good if it’s right,” Eastman explains.

With fewer than a million cows registered in Canada, Eastman says Canada is small enough to capture the genome of every cow. The falling price point of genetic testing makes this a low-cost venture and would allow the Canadian system to have a 100 per cent verified herd book for the nation. This, in turn, will make Canada more competitive, especially with the United States.

Eastman says one of the pleasures of his work is he gets to be his own boss. That, and working with “great people in a great industry.”

Reducing methane / carbon neutral Land-based ingredient (sustainable) by

Heat stress happens. But significant losses in production don’t have to follow. Help her better sustain dry matter intake, hydration and milk production. So she recovers more quickly from heat stress, and there’s less impact on your bottom line.

CANADA’S PLAN FOR NETZERO DAIRY GENETICS

Leveraging genomics to achieve dairy net-zero

By

Christine Baes, Professor and Department Chair; Canada Research Chair in Livestock Genomics, Emily Leishman, Postdoctoral Fellow, Ricarda Jahnel, Postdoctoral Fellow, University of Guelph, and Filippo Miglior, Senior Advisor, Genetic Strategic Initiatives, Lactanet Canada

CANADA IS SPEARHEADING ANOTHER TRANSFORMATIVE INITIATIVE IN SUSTAINABILITY with its plan for net-zero dairy genetics, aligning with Dairy Farmers of Canada’s (DFC) ambitious goal of achieving net-zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 2050. The plan leverages knowledge gained in both nutrition and genomic studies to develop more efficient dairy cattle that produce fewer emissions. The initiative will allow Canadian dairy farmers to further enhance productivity while significantly reducing their environmental footprint. This initiative not only supports DFC’s sustainability goals but also helps Ontario milk producers dedicated to balancing productivity with environmental stewardship.

NET0

Funding secured for new project

To help achieve the net-zero dairy goal, funding has been secured for a new project aimed at translating genomic research into practical solutions for Canadian dairy producers. Leading this initiative is Dr. Christine Baes from the University of Guelph, alongside Dr. Filippo Miglior (Lactanet Canada, University of Guelph), Dr. Rachel Gervais (Université Laval), and Dr. Paul Stothard (University of Alberta), supported by numerous national and international partners. Drs. Baes and Miglior have previously led successful large-scale dairy genomics projects, such as the efficient dairy genome project (EDGP) and the resilient dairy genome project (RDGP). The new net-zero genome project (NDGP) will build on past efforts and new regional initiatives to create a roadmap for GHG emission management for farmers. This roadmap will integrate the latest knowledge and data from genetics and nutrition, considering the main biological aspects of GHG production.

The project is broadly organized into six focus areas, each building on and supporting the others:

1.

Measuring GHG emissions impact: this area will create methods to measure how well potential strategies actually reduce GHG emissions. It will include a detailed analysis of the entire farming process to better understand the benefits and costs of different approaches at both the animal and herd levels.

2.

Genetic and genomic strategies for reducing GHG: this part of the project will standardize GHG emission data to develop better genetic and genomic approaches, making predictions more accurate. Researchers will collect methane emission data on several commercial farms across Canada and use that information for genomic evaluations. This activity will also look at how traits like production, health, fertility and welfare relate to new environmental traits, helping choose the best strategies for selection.

3.

Nutrition and management strategies for GHG mitigations: this area will study how an individual cow’s digestion affects GHG emissions. It will examine how nutrition and genetics work together to influence emissions, helping identify which cows are better suited for specific GHG reduction strategies based on their genetic makeup.

4.

Sequence data management and analysis: this research area will use whole genome sequencing to find specific parts of the genome that might impact GHG emissions and

identify which genetic regions are most important for reducing emissions.

5.

Genomics and its economic, environmental, ethical, legal and societal opportunities and challenges: this area will explore the broader impacts of using genomics to reduce GHG emissions, including economic and social aspects. It will assess potential incentives for farmers and the likelihood of success for different strategies, providing a better understanding of public attitudes toward GHG reduction in Canada.

6. Implementation and practical application: the final area will focus on turning research findings into practical tools and services for farmers. This includes developing a routine genomic evaluation service for multiple environmental sustainability traits, ensuring research benefits are quickly and effectively used in the industry. The results will be shared with other researchers, industry stakeholders, dairy producers and the public. As well, it will include getting accurate measurements at the individual cow level.

Making emission calculations easier and more accessible

The goal is to provide a mitigation toolbox connected to real data to make emission calculations easier and more accessible, so producers can monitor and manage their own emissions. Each farm is unique in its combination of herd genetic potential and feeding and management strategies. The project aims to move away from a “one-size-fits-all” approach and offer customizable strategies for producers to mitigate their emissions while ensuring profitability and social acceptance of the sector.

The project also aims to inform at the policy level by providing policy makers and inventory specialists a clear picture of cow- and herd-level GHG emission estimates for Canadian dairy animals. Currently, Canada’s GHG emission inventory for livestock, which is reported to the United Nations yearly, is based on Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change calculators, which treat each cow equally and do not account for genetic or nutritional differences that exist between farms and between individual cows. It is crucial to get those numbers right.

The implementation of these strategies is expected to reduce GHG emissions from Canadian dairy production by 55 per cent. It is projected nutritional strategies could account for 30 to 40 per cent of this reduction, while genomic strategies could contribute 30 per cent, for an estimated total value of $338 million. The project also anticipates annual net savings of $100 million due to improved production efficiency and enhanced animal welfare from correlated genetic gains. The collaborative and interdisciplinary effort of this project and the contributions of producers, industry stakeholders and policymakers will ensure the developed roadmap is widely adopted and aligns effectively with industry goals.

Targeted reproductive management

U of G researchers looking to improve reproductive performance using activity monitors

By Katie Duncan, Communications Officer, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph

In a synchronization program for dairy reproduction, there can be four to eight steps that need to be done on a tight schedule to get things right. What if there was a way to monitor heats that could manage about 70 per cent of breedings and alleviate labour-intensive heat detection or timed insemination programs?

That’s the goal for researchers at the University of Guelph in a team headed by Dr. Stephen LeBlanc, department of population medicine professor at Ontario Veterinary College (OVC). Two studies will explore ways to improve dairy cow reproductive health and optimize reproductive management using activity monitors.

What if there was a way to monitor heats that could manage about 70 per cent of breedings and alleviate labourintensive heat detection or timed insemination programs?

The research builds upon a 2022 study that intensively investigated transition period and reproductive health and found about 70 per cent of cows could be successfully managed for first artificial insemination (AI) using automated activity monitoring without hormonal intervention.

The new studies, which overlap and have been underway since last year, are looking to further the results of that initial research to identify herd- and cow-level factors associated with successful use of activity monitors. The results will help farmers employ targeted reproductive management tailored to their herd and with selective interventions.

Optimizing reproductive performance with activity monitors at the herd level

The aim of the first study is to identify factors that influence the pregnancy rate in herds using activity-based management.

Several smaller studies have identified, on average, herds with reproduction managed primarily through automated activity monitors achieve similar pregnancy results compared with those managed with synchronization protocols for timed insemination. However, performance varies among herds. Until now, no herd-level studies have been done to clarify what variables determine the merit of each approach.

“Understanding herd-to-herd variation could really help dairy farmers in two ways: the first is helping farmers who haven’t yet invested in this technology understand if this is a good option for them,” Dr. LeBlanc says. “Conversely, if a producer has this technology and they’re sitting

Top: One of the methods used to diagnose subclinical endometritis is the cytobrush technique. We collect cells from the uterus and then roll the brush in a slide that will be stained and read in the microscope later. Cows with more inflammatory cells would have a worse performance than those with low inflammatory cell count.

Bottom: A sample slide smear for later stain testing.

below average in terms of how it’s working for them, it can help them assess at a herd level where to look for improvements.”

The study will include 80 freestall herds across Canada with activity systems, and measure transition diseases, ketosis, lameness, anovular condition, barn design, stocking density and level of production in relation to the proportion of inseminations based on activity and pregnancy rate at the herd level.

“Understanding herd-to-herd variation could really help dairy farmers in two ways: the first is helping farmers who haven’t yet invested in this technology understand if this is a good option for them,” Dr. LeBlanc says. “Conversely, if a producer has this technology and they’re sitting below average in terms of how it’s working for them, it can help them assess at a herd level where to look to for improvements.”

Developing a tool to identify which cows will benefit from activity monitors

The second study will focus on the individual cow, using transition period data to build an algorithm that can identify which cows will be good candidates for successful first AI by activity monitoring alone. Previous data indicate 60 to 70 per cent of cows can be selected to manage without intervention, while the remainder can receive a targeted intervention.

There are six promising pre-breeding indicators that help detect estrus with activity monitors, including early postpartum serum calcium and haptoglobin concentrations, chronic low-grade reproductive tract inflammation (endometritis) and body condition score (BCS) loss. Research from this study will help validate these predictors across 10 herds.

So, what’s the benefit to producers? “While there is a cost up front, activity monitors allow for a less or at least different labour demands for farmers,” explains LeBlanc. “Cows can live their lives while the technology is monitoring their activity, meanwhile, producers are getting a set of alerts through the day or a list in the morning identifying which cows are in heat.”

Improving dairy sustainability and herd health

Both projects are a part of a larger $3.9 million-study comprising 15 projects funded by Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council (NSERC) Alliance and four collaborators – Dairy Farmers of Ontario, Dairy Farmers of Canada, Lactanet and Veal Farmers of Ontario.

Over the next five years, additional studies headed by Dr. LeBlanc, Dr. David Renaud and Dr. David Kelton will tackle problems with two key themes in mind – mitigating infectious disease and supporting sustainable milk production. The team will do research on bovine leukosis and Salmonella Dublin, identify barriers for dairy farmers in implementing best management practices and optimize reproductive management.

The research addresses several priorities in the 2022–2027 National Dairy Research Strategy, developed by Dairy Farmers of Canada and provincial partners like Dairy Farmers of Ontario. The strategy guides and supports research that benefits Canada’s dairy producers and addresses their current and future concerns.

HPAI requires awareness and collaboration

By working together, poultry and dairy farmers can keep flocks and herds safe

By Al Dam, Provincial Poultry Specialist, Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (OMAFRA), and Mariana Gastaldo, OMAFRA’s Poultry Summer Research Assistant

AVIAN INFLUENZA (AI), COMMONLY REFERRED TO AS “BIRD

FLU,” is caused by the type A influenza virus. Recently, there has been a lot of coverage of bird flu in (dairy) cattle. To date, the H5N1 strain has been found in 67 dairy herds in nine states in the United States, three humans and counting. What does this mean to you as a dairy farmer? What does this mean to your neighbours with poultry? What does this mean if you have dairy and poultry quota? While the full impact to dairy is unclear, repercussions to a poultry farm are dire.

In addition to domesticated and wild birds, highly pathogenic AI has been detected in livestock (goats, bovines, alpacas, etc.), cats, dogs, various wild mammal and people. Although the health risk to humans is considered low, taking precautions is advised when handling wild birds and animals suspected of being infected.

Wild birds are considered a reservoir for AI as many have it and often show little or no signs of disease; this allows the virus to continuously spread and mutate. Concerningly, the current H5N1 strain is producing an unprecedented mortality rate in wild birds.

When domestic poultry have bird flu, symptoms can range from coughing and sneezing to poor egg production (quantity and quality) and extreme depression and mortality. Worldwide, H5N1 has resulted in the death or destruction of billions of birds. Originating in Asia in the 1990s, H5N1 spread to Europe leading to its arrival in Canada in December 2021 mainly due to encounters between migratory birds.

To date, Canada has lost more than 11 million domestic birds from H5N1, with 49 infected premises and 900,000 birds destroyed in Ontario. In the U.S., more than 96.5 million birds have been affected.

In Canada, H5 and H7 strains are federally reportable and result in an immediate response. Since there is no vaccination protocol, a positive case of AI on a poultry farm elicits a scorched-earth policy. This consists of quarantining the infected premises (IP); establishing a primary control zone (PCZ) of approximately 10 kilometres in radius for disease surveillance, movement restrictions and permits for product transport, as well as ordering the destruction of the birds on the IP, disposing of infected material (birds, manure, eggs, feed, etc.), cleaning and disinfecting to international standards and then releasing the IP for repopulation. This process could take months and is at great cost to the infected farm and non-infected poultry operations within the PCZ.

SO, WHO PAYS FOR WHAT?

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency pays for the value of the animals ordered destroyed, the destruction of said animals and neutralization of infected material, typically by heat treatment. From this point forward, the producer is responsible for disposing the non-infectious material and cleaning and disinfecting the barn. While the animal’s value is reimbursed, the loss of production is not, which is exacerbated by an average cost of $100,000 to clean and disinfect a poultry barn to the required standards. Further, poultry farmers within the PCZ are challenged with movement restrictions and pre-movement surveillance. Those within a three-km radius face barriers to repopulate flocks after shipping. Allied industries (genetics, catchers, haulers, processors, hatcheries, feed companies, etc.) also have restricted and/or limited movement within and through the PCZ.

When domestic poultry have bird flu, symptoms can range from coughing and sneezing to poor egg production (quantity and quality) and extreme depression and mortality. Worldwide, H5N1 has resulted in the death or destruction of billions of birds.

In Michigan, there was suspected transmission from cattle back to wildlife and commercial poultry. As the situation evolves, co-operation between dairy and poultry industries will be critical to help us navigate through this disease.

If you find dead wildlife on your dairy farm, please visit the Canadian Wildlife Health Cooperative at https://www.cwhc-rcsf.ca/report_and_ submit.php to submit for testing.

By working together, we can keep our flocks and dairy herds safe.

GEA ADDS AI SOLUTION TO ITS MIX

Dairy farmers can improve cow health and production through the early detection of lameness

GEA FARM TECHNOLOGIES has acquired Northern Ireland-based agricultural software company CattleEye Ltd., adding a pioneering artificial intelligence system to its existing portfolio of solutions for dairy farms.

“With the trend toward larger and more automated dairy farms, the need to monitor and track animals and production is becoming increasingly important,” says Peter Lauwers, chief executive officer (CEO) of GEA Farm Technologies. “By adding CattleEye’s advanced AI technology, we are expanding our DairyNet portfolio for modern herd management. This can be a game changer for farmers to improve herd health, farm productivity and financial stability.”

CattleEye is an artificial intelligence system designed to detect and predict lameness in cows quickly. Next to mastitis, lameness is a major disease in dairy cows that can lead to infertility and decreased milk yields. CattleEye also provides critical data to assess body condition scores, which help analyze cow health after calving, determine ration adjustments and monitor the cow’s general physical condition. By using this AI-based software, farmers can take immediate action to improve the welfare and productivity of their herd.

The CattleEye system combines a 2D camera with specialized software that analyzes cow movement and body score patterns. Farmers gain insight into their herd's health. The system can be integrated into new and existing farms, regardless of the type or brand of milking system.

Contact your local GEA milking equipment dealer or visit GEA.com for more information.

Don’t sacrifice your future milk production. Fuel your calves with high-quality products developed from 50 years of research, knowledge and dedication to calf nutrition. Great cows, start as great calves.

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GENETIC GAINS

Ontario dairy makes in global genetics

By Jeanine Moyer

TONY VAN LITH’S STORY of building Valiant Dairy Genetics is one of ambition, trust, ingenuity and instinct.

From an early age, van Lith took a keen interest in dairy genetics –learning from everyone around him, from 4-H leaders to genetics sales representatives. One of four boys in a dairy farming family that was rapidly expanding their herd, van Lith recognized he could apply his interest to his family’s herd when he was just a teenager. Looking back, he believes that opportunity launched his genetics business.

“When it came to genetics and pedigrees, I had a blank slate and the support of my family to make improvements and build a herd to perform, all while learning business negotiation skills,” says van Lith. “I always enjoyed classification days and learning from others, literally learning to do by doing. I knew from an early age I wanted to get into the genetics industry.”

Today, van Lith has established a household name for Valiant Dairy Genetics, breeding and marketing embryos and bulls around the world. And though it’s been hard

On the right, Valiant Calmac Parfect Emblem. Emblem will have approximately 30 offspring born this year throughout the U.S. and Canada.

dairy farmer makes waves genetics

work, his achievements have been quickly realized. At 27 years of age, van Lith has proven himself to be a valuable contributor to the global dairy genetics industry and savvy business owner. In addition to managing the genetics company and working as a consultant, he also manages one of his family’s dairy farms, Valiant Dairy in Woodstock, Ont., milking 75 Holsteins in a double-8 parlour along with a few part-time employees.

With the help of his parents, van Lith began farming on his own nearly three years ago and hopes to purchase the farm from his family as part of a transition in the future. He’s grateful for their help getting established in the Canadian dairy industry and for their trust in the early days when he made his first foray in breeding with his parent’s herd. Now, he works closely with his parents and fellow dairy farming brothers. “They help me with field work, and I help them with their breeding and genetic selections,” he says, noting he’s grateful to continue using some of his family’s cows as recipients as a way of increasing the quantity of embryos implanted each year.

Fast-paced success

Over the past four years, van Lith has ramped up his business, selling embryos across Canada and to more than 12 countries, along with more than 12 bulls sold to genetics companies including ABS, Semex, Validity and AI Total.

“It’s exciting to see some of the genetics making an impact on the Holstein breed around the world,” says van Lith, who keeps a close eye on how the results of his embryos and bull semen unfold across the globe. He regularly communicates with customers and watches cattle show results to gain feedback and says, “it’s rewarding to see the results of a calf born from one of his bulls in another country somewhere else in the world.”

What’s most impressive is how quickly the achievements are adding up in such a short period of time. Not only has van Lith developed a loyal customer base, he’s also helping his customers realize success, too, and that’s what’s most rewarding for him.

Walking the walk

“Whatever I’m selling has to be something I get behind,” says van

I want to make an impact in the North American and global genetics industry by breeding bulls farmers want to use to make a difference in their own herds and enhance the sustainability of milk production.

– Tony van Lith

Pictured with Calmac Valiant Mcmuffin, dam of the #1 Polled & red heifer in the world for GTPI.

Lith, explaining when it comes to making selections and decisions, he follows his own golden rule: choosing genetics he wants in his own herd.

Integrity is key to van Lith’s business model. His willingness to test and diversify the genetics he uses in his own herd and experience the results first-hand helps build his credibility and reduce the risk for his customers.

A sustainable and balanced cow are van Lith’s first objectives, followed by traits that will deliver an animal with great feet and legs (especially front leg view and hooves that wear correctly), high and wide udders, the will to milk, locomotion and a good temperament. The polled gene is also something van Lith is passionate about and predicts it will soon be incorporated into more herds throughout the world.

“Through DNA, we have the ability to genetically dehorn cattle

that can directly improve animal welfare, save on labour and the consumer perception of farming, so why don’t we?” asks van Lith. He predicts the speed of genetics will expedite the polled gene and expects to see homozygous polled bulls become the norm within the next decade.

Risk management

Diversification and managing risk have been two key components van Lith has built into his genetics business from the start. From his first personal investment in the genetics industry when he partnered to buy a calf, to his expanding partnerships throughout the United States where he is implanting embryos to scale up the business, van Lith has learned how to spread his risk in an ever-changing market.

“Building partnerships to expand access to more animals and accelerate genetic outcomes has helped me manage my risk in a short period of time, but I’ve learned you need to pick your partners wisely,” explains

van Lith. His approach is to ensure every business partner brings something unique to the partnership besides finances. That could mean partnering with people who provide expertise, recipient animals or access to embryo markets. “Working with like-minded partners who are as invested in the desired outcome leads to long-term success,” he says.

Van Lith reports access to capital and the limited number of recipients on his own farm as the greatest challenges to the growth of his genetics business. That’s why he actively partners with his family and fellow business partners. “I believe genetics can be successful on a moderate budget and with a buyer who knows what they are doing. You just need to do the research,” he notes. Pedigree and genetic research are something van Lith loves to explore, he says its exciting to find interesting animals, or the ‘diamond in the rough.’ “I’m always looking for which bull will be the next great thing before it happens,” he says.

Through

DNA,

we have

the ability to genetically dehorn cattle that can directly improve animal welfare, save on labour and the consumer perception of farming, so why

don’t we?

– Tony van Lith

“I want to make an impact in the North American and global genetics industry by breeding bulls farmers want to use to make a difference in their own herds and enhance the sustainability of milk production.”

Staying ahead of the curve

As markets evolve and demand for genetics and desirable traits change, van Lith is constantly challenged with trying to stay ahead and identifying what’s next. Once again, diversifying his own genetic base within his herd and through partnerships helps him maintain variety so he can be ready with embryos and bulls when changes occur. Taking this approach has helped him to be proactive rather than reactive to market demands.

Looking ahead, he expects to see increased industry focus on more balanced and healthy cows. “I think producers will shift from focusing on single production traits and start to select for more balanced cows with optimal reproduction and health traits to sustainably support their herd for the long-term,” predicts van Lith.

He also points to animal health as predominant features producers will increasingly consider in their genetic selections. This prediction comes as producers look for immunity and healthbased traits that will enhance

individual animal and herd performance.

As a producer himself, van Lith understands genetics are just one component of a successful dairy production system. “It’s when the necessary factors of a thriving herd are at their best that genetics really shine. That includes quality feed, environment, animal care and comfort,” he says, explaining that to realize genetic potential and genetic gains, every dairy producer must prioritize excellence in every aspect of their operation.

As for his own dairy herd and growing global genetics business, van Lith has his sights set on short-term goals like fine-tuning his operations to run smoothly and efficiently, balancing on-farm labour and, as always, finding the next genetics success story.

“I’m constantly learning, and I embrace change,” says van Lith. “This is an exciting industry to be in, and I hope to make an impact on my farm and those across the globe.”

Integrity is key to van Lith’s business model. His willingness to test and diversify the genetics he uses in his own herd and experience the results first-hand helps build his credibility and reduce the risk for his customers.

Should the ideal lactation be longer?

The modern cow suggests she may not be best suited to calving every 12 months

By Christoph Wand, Livestock Sustainability Specialist, Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, and Dr. John Cant, Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph

THE DAIRY INDUSTRY HAS MAINTAINED IDEALS around a 305-day lactation and 365-day calving interval for decades, which has driven many producers to chase early rebreeding and other management points. The concept popularized for many years was that resetting the lactation curve and pushing peak and total milk back up meant initiating new lactation via calving. In other words, an attempt to increase total area (milk yield) under the curve.

It’s possible the idea of 10 months milking and two months calving have their origin in the seasonal history of the cow production cycle, which is still seen in grazing dairy industries elsewhere in the world, such as in New Zealand, and the annual calving that remains a cornerstone of the pasture-based beef industry. In grassbased sectors, this is often done to match peak lactation to cheaper pasture-feed resources. When thinking about modern, genetically superior, high-producing cows in the Canadian supply-managed and largely TMR-based production environment, these ideas deserve reconsideration. Things have changed.

Evidence against the 12 month calving interval

Low-lactation persistency forces a shorter optimum calving interval because of the large potential to increase daily milk yield in new lactation. This historical reality, along with the seasonal system of the past, made the annual calving of dairy cows doctrine. Yet, in classic economics, the hypothetical factory owner looks to offset fixed costs by increasing output, often increasing variable costs at the same time, allowing fixed costs to be offset. To further the factory analogy, factory managers seek to have more productive shifts versus cleaning and

repair shifts to best use the facility. In lactating dairy cows, fixed costs (where the cow replaces the factory) include the sunk cost of heifer rearing and yardage of the dry cow. It stands to reason increased productivity could include more days in milk to offset those fixed costs, not just daily milk. But the modern cow suggests she is not best suited to calve every 12 months anymore; including the fact so few cows return to fertile cyclicity in time to achieve the false ideal. As a result of this reality of delayed rebreeding, most herds struggle to keep calving interval where they have been advised to keep it, with even the 90th percentile herds in Ontario being at 12.6 months calving interval in 2023, according to Lactanet. A philosophical reason not to dry off a cow is that fewer dry-off and calving events in a cow’s productive life would mean fewer chances for transition and negative dry-off events.

Evidence for an extended lactation

Producer wisdom suggests incentive days have already been met by the simple decision to delay dry-off. Nutritionists, veterinarians and academics report herds are routinely being dried off producing 25 kilograms of daily milk, with some herds closer to 30 kg and some individual cows even at 35 to 40 kg of milk daily at dry off. All this suggests the lactation curve of the modern dairy cow does not resemble the lactation curve upon which the historical idealism of a 10-month lactation was based. This means modern cow lactations are more persistent, such as high and sustained peaks as opposed to dropping off when graphed. In a presentation given at the Eastern Nutrition Conference in Guelph, Ont., in 2010, simulations from a computer model were presented, where body condition and feed

Figure 1: This simulation conducted by the Cant lab demonstrates a high persistency lactation can result in more kilograms of milk yield per day over an extended lactation, in contrast to historic cows with a lower persistency lactation. This reduces ‘down time’ across a cow’s lifetime or the herd. Also reduced would be the risks associated with dry off and calving events over a lifetime. Dips in the simulated lactation curves account for the pregnancy effect on milk production.

Source: John Cant

Figure 2: Dairy cows have changed. With modern genetics, including a cow’s ability to produce greater amounts of milk, many cows have more persistent lactation curves that would allow lactations to be much longer than previously recommended.

provided were managed such that performance comes from the feed and not the body. The simulation results showed the optimum number of days open for the high-persistency cow in the Cant lab’s calculations was around 300 days, which translates to a calving interval greater than 19 months. The point is, a persistent cow can have an optimum voluntary waiting period of more than 200 days, meaning a calving interval of 16 months as shown in Figure 1. Academic groups in other countries, such as the van Knegsel lab at Wageningen and faculty at Aarhus University in Denmark, have also given the nod to extended lactations as having potential to improve sustainability and reduce greenhouse gases.

Rethinking lactation length

The real determinant will be the economics of milk production, but the ripple effects will be on environmental footprint per unit of milk produced. Evidence suggests production benchmarks to which the sector has clung are based in tradition and not economic fundamentals nor the data contemporary cows have been giving dairy managers. Perhaps it is time to relax and not fixate on getting high-

producing cows back in calf so quickly? Rather, to go with the flow of the extended lactation milk flow.

References

Lactanet. 2024. 2023 Management Benchmarks. Accessed at: https://lactanet.ca/ en/dairy-knowledge/herd-management-score-benchmarks/

J.P. Cant, S.R.L. Cieslar and T.C. Wright. 2010 Incorporating Lactation Curve Characteristics Into Management Decisions. Eastern Nutrition Conference Proceedings.

A.T.M. van Knegsel, E.E.A. Burgers, J. Ma, R.M.A, Goselink, A. Kok. 2022. Extending lactation length: Consequences for Cow, Calf and Farmer. Journal of Animal Science. 2022 Oct 1;100(10):skac220. doi: 10.1093/jas/skac220.

J. Sehested, C. Gaillard, J.O. Lehmann, G.M. Maciel, M. Vestergaard, M.R. Weisbjerg, L. Mogensen, L.B. Larsen, N.A. Poulsen, T. Kristensen. 2020. Review: Extended

A bimonthly section featuring announcements, news and upcoming events of interest to dairy farmers

Listen to Ontario Soil Network’s Combines and Coffee podcast

The Ontario Soil Network’s (OSN) "Combines and Coffee" podcast is a platform where farmers, agronomists and agricultural experts come together to share their stories, insights and best practices related to soil health and sustainable farming. Launched in late 2023, the podcast serves as a communication tool within the farming community, promoting knowledge exchange and fostering a collaborative environment for discussing challenges and opportunities in agriculture.

LATEST EPISODE: INNOVATIONS IN AGRICULTURAL TECHNOLOGY AND MICROBIOLOGY

In this episode of Combines and Coffee, OSN delves into the transformative world of agricultural technology and microbial ecology with three trailblazers in the field: Chuck Baresich, president of Haggerty Robotics; Dr. Lori Phillips, a microbial ecologist at Agriculture and AgriFood Canada; and Xavier Hébert-Couturier, lead at Picketa Systems.

They unpack their discussions from the recent Innovative Farmers Association of Ontario conference, where they explored the frontiers of their respective fields:

• Dr. Lori Phillips shares insights into the underground world of soil microbiology and the significant changes observed when switching from conventional farming to systems utilizing perennial cover crops. Learn how new tools are allowing us to better understand and measure these subterranean dynamics.

• Chuck Baresich discusses the challenges and breakthroughs in integrating advanced robotics into farming operations. Discover how this technology is poised to revolutionize agricultural practices by enhancing precision and efficiency on the farm.

• Xavier Hébert-Couturier provides an in-depth look at his team's development of real-time leaf tissue analysis tools at Picketa Systems. These innovations are revolutionizing nutrient management by providing immediate data on crop nutrient content, allowing farmers to optimize fertilization strategies on the fly, thereby supporting precision agriculture and enhancing sustainability and crop health.

Listeners can access the "Combines and Coffee" podcast wherever they listen to their podcasts.

Forge Expo 2024, July 4 in Huron County

The Ontario Forage Council (OFC), along with Huron County and Eastern Valley Soil and Crop Improvement Associations, will be co-hosting Forage Expo 2024 - Forage Equipment Demonstrations and Trade Show. The event takes place on Thursday, July 4, 2024, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 43843 Harriston Road, Gorrie, on the farm of Mark Horst and family.

The Eastern Valley event takes place on Friday, July 12, 2024, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 1781 St. Isidore Road, St. Isidore, at the farm of Thomas Haerle and family. This is a bilingual event.

This year’s demonstrations will include equipment from leaders in forage production equipment. Attendees can see what’s new for 2024 and witness the equipment in head-to-head field trials. Equipment will include various mowers, conditioners, rakes, tedders, windrow inverters, mergers, harvesters, dump wagons, large round balers, large square balers and a small square bale bundler.

The expo will provide farmers a view of the latest technology to harvest forage quickly with minimal loss and maximum quality. Ian McDonald and Christine O’Reilly, Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs specialists, will be in the field working with equipment companies to provide information to farmers and answer questions. This is important in making decisions on investments that enhance farm operations in capacity, minimizing harvest losses, product quality and profitability. The event is free to attend. Lunch will be available for purchase onsite and no pre-registration is required.

Join OSCIA workshops on environmental farm plans and biosecurity

The Ontario Soil and Crop Improvement Association (OSCIA) continues to offer environmental farm plan workshops for producers, as well as crop and livestock biosecurity workshops. Workshops are listed at www.ontariosoilcrop.org. If you don’t see one in your area, contact OSCIA at 1-800-265-9751 to be set with one up locally. A full suite of programs is available at www.osciaportal.org.

OMAFRA’s 2024 Soil Management Day, Aug. 27

The Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs’ soil team, in collaboration with the Ontario Soil Network (OSN), is hosting the 2024 Soil Management Day. The event offers hands-on training and collaborative soil management solutions at a real-life farm scenario. The event takes place from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.

AGENDA HIGHLIGHTS:

• 8:30 a.m. Arrival and Registration

• 9:00 a.m. Farm Presentation: History & Soil Challenges

• 9:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. In-Field Assessments (OMAFRA-led stations)

o Soil pit: soil and landscape factors

o Water management: drainage and erosion

o Soil and tissue fertility

o Soil structure/health: tillage, compaction, rotation, covers

• 12 p.m. Lunch

• 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Soil Health Management Planning (Supported by OSN Alumni)

o Causes and contributing factors

o Solutions and strategies

o Action plan and next steps

For details, contact Danny Jefferies at 519-359-6707 or danny.jefferies@ontario.ca.

Calendar of events

June 22, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. - Free pasture walk in Meaford, Grey County. See movement and waterline demos and learn about predicting cattle performance from grazed pasture. Registration required. Visit: https://onforagenetwork.ca/ontario-forage-council/advanced-grazing-mentorship-program/.

July 4, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. - Free Huron County Forage Expo. See forage equipment, the latest innovations and reps from various companies. Taking place at 43843 Harriston Road, Gorrie. No registration required. Visit: https://onforagenetwork.ca/ontario-forage-council/forage-expo/.

July 12, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. - Eastern Valley Forage Expo at 1781 St. Isidore Road, St. Isidore. Free, bilingual event; no registration required. Visit: https://onforagenetwork.ca/ontario-forage-council/forage-expo/.

July 20, Kolson Farms - Canadian Milking Shorthorn Society Field Day and AGM at the farm of Stephen and Janet Edwards in Cobden, Ont. Visit: https://milkingshorthorn.ca/.

Aug. 10, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. - Free pasture walk in Oro-Medonte, Simcoe County. Learn about rotational grazing for soil health, carb-loading soils: rotational grazing for production and the planet. Register at https://onforagenetwork.ca/ontario-forage-council/advanced-grazing-mentorship-program/.

Aug. 17, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. - Free pasture walk in Melancthon, Dufferin County. Learn about winter feeding and water systems, as well as predicting cattle performance from grazed pasture. Register at https://onforagenetwork.ca/ontario-forage-council/ advanced-grazing-mentorship-program/.

Dairy Farmers of Ontario (DFO) has an annual scholarship program that offers up to six $3,000 scholarships to high school students entering a post-secondary degree or diploma program in agriculture.

To be eligible for these scholarships, an applicant must:

• be a son or daughter of a DFO licensed dairy producer (sons or daughters of current board members are not eligible);

• be entering semester one of a post-secondary agricultural degree program or a diploma program in agriculture;

• have achieved an 80 percent or greater average in Grade 12 credits (best six to be averaged).

Selection criteria will be based on:

• academic achievement;

• future career plans;

• demonstrated leadership in secondar y school and community activities.

How to Apply:

Application forms are available on DFO’s website at new.milk.org under Industry Login. On the lefthand side, go to Documents > Forms > Application for DFO Scholarships.

Dairy Farmers of Ontario must receive complete application forms by Aug. 30, 2024, to be considered. New this year, emailed applications are now being accepted and are preferred.

For details, contact Robert Matson at robert.matson@milk.org or 905-208-7981.

“It

maximizes genetic potential.”

“People ask how our cows’ udders look so good so soon after calving. I say we always use Udder Comfort.™

It maximizes genetic potential. We use it on the entire udder of every heifer twice a day after calving, ensuring to get it between the leg and udder to prevent irritation. For fresh mature cows, we use it routinely, but fewer days. It does an awesome job softening udders and is gentle to skin,” says Joe Engel, Luck-E Holsteins, Hampshire, Illinois. Dams of the 184-cow milking herd average EX92. Luck-E has bred over 600 EX, including both sides of the pedigree of Luck-E Awesome Adventure EX94 96MS, 2022 Illinois Cow of the Year, nominated Junior All-American.

“We want fresh, crisp, perfect udders by two weeks in milk. Udder Comfort gets udders spot-on, all the way ready, fast.”

— Joe Engel

DAIRYTRACE AND PROACTION: HELPING FARMERS WORK TOGETHER TO PREVENT AND REDUCE ON-FARM RISKS

Dairy farmers have built up valuable systems that mitigate risks to animal and human health. In Canada, the sector has several powerful tools to leverage: two cattle traceability programs (SimpliTrace in Quebec and the national program DairyTrace for dairy farmers outside of Quebec) and the proAction® Biosecurity module. These are strengthened by the farmers who do the hard work building up the databases for traceability and reporting.

How traceability helps Canadian dairy farmers

In conjunction with the proAction Traceability module, DairyTrace and SimpliTrace provide many safeguards by tracing an animal’s past and present locations. Dairy farmers had been diligently identifying their animals and reporting move-in data, imports, exports, and tag activations and retirements for years, setting up DairyTrace for national success with its full implementation in 2020. In Quebec, farmers have been using the SimpliTrace program within the province. Both set the Canadian dairy industry up for faster response times in the event of an emerging disease emergency.

How proAction and the Biosecurity module help dairy farmers

Under the leadership of Dairy Farmers of Canada, Canadian dairy farms worked together to create proAction, an incredible system that can trace health issues across provinces. Completing the database through the proAction Biosecurity module is essential to on-farm safety. Under this module, farmers focus on managing risks and preventing disease introduction and spread within a herd. Every aspect of the biosecurity module is designed to protect cattle health, maintain farm efficiency and ensure the high quality of Canadian milk.

Working closely with veterinarians reduces the risks of introducing existing and emerging animal diseases to a particular farm. It also makes it easier to control diseases should they be detected in a herd. Doing so not only improves the overall health of Canadian herds but also positively impacts farm productivity, a key factor of sustainability.

Now, the two databases generate essential traceback information, helping autho-rities understand where dairy cattle are and where they have been (e.g. their movement to and from an infected farm). This information will help our industry and the government respond to an outbreak rapidly and effectively, limiting economic impact on the sector.

Under proAction, farmers have time windows to report a movement; in an outbreak, however, it is of utmost importance that farmers make these reports as quickly as possible.

Shoring up our tools by working together

There is much we can do to keep both programs working as efficiently and effectively as possible. Under DairyTrace or SimpliTrace, farmers are encouraged to review and update herd inventories and replace any missing tags as soon as possible. To keep the reports up to date, they should promptly report animal movements into the herd, preferably within 24 hours.

Farmers are also encouraged to report animal movements out of the herd. It tells the system that the animal has left the farm, and that the next person, farm, or facility will report the animal’s move-in. These practices help accelerate traceback investigations and protect dairy cattle in a health emergency.

Off-farm, work is being done behind the scenes to make reporting easier. DairyTrace has recently completed significant improvements to its portal and app, making event reporting simple and more convenient for dairy farmers. DairyTrace and SimpliTrace are also accessible by government authorities to facilitate traceback and disease management.

These two modules of proAction – Traceability, partnered with DairyTrace and SimpliTrace, and Biosecurity – accentuate farmers’ diligent attention to accurate, up-to-date databases. Canadian dairy is well-equipped to manage an emerging disease in ways that mitigate risks to animals and farmers.

BETTER SUPPLY AND DEMAND EXPECTED TO CONTINUE THROUGH JUNE

As was the case in May, P5 boards have again agreed to not send any additional production signal or incentive day for the month of June. This decision was motivated by a relatively better balance between supply and demand in recent weeks and month, which is expected to continue in June. The situation will continue to be monitored every month between now and the fall period when demand is typically filled by the combination of the actual month’s production/manufacturing and dairy product inventories.

“Incentive days are used to fill short-term demand. We have observed in recent weeks it has worked since the fill-rate of processor milk requests has significantly improved,” says Patrice Dubé, Dairy Farmers of Ontario’s chief economics and policy development officer.

P5 boards continue to keep an eye on the fall period, as well as long-term supply and

demand. P5 boards will focus their attention on the fall period to ensure this crucial time of year, where demand is usually high, will probably be filled.

“P5 boards wants to learn from the past and ensure to not repeat the milk shortage situation created during the fall 2023 period because of over-quota penalty concerns over the longer term,” says Dubé.

That being said, P5 boards continue to monitor the national pool situation that again indicates (like last year), the P10 could be in an over-quota situation as early as June 2024. If this is the case, data indicate the P5 pool would be the only explanation for this national over-quota, which could translate into a financial penalty six months after the month when the over-quota is observed. This would mean the transfer of potentially millions of dollars from P5 producers to Western Milk

Pool (WMP) producers, which is a situation that needs to be avoided. In the meantime, WMP producers are expected to gradually increase their production and be in a better situation to fill their regional pool quota over the coming months.

In April 2024, butter stocks reached 34, 820 tonnes, up from March by 1,605 tonnes. April butter stock levels are higher compared to April 2023.

Cheese stock levels for April 2024 were at 98,332 tonnes, which is relatively flat compared to March and the lowest they have been for the same month in at least five years.

For the 52-weeks ending April 1, 2024, sales for fluid milk, fluid cream, yogurt, ice cream, cheese and butter increased/decreased by -0.5, -0.4, 3.0, 2.4, 2.4 and 1.9 per cent, respectively, compared with March 30, 2023.

A monthly recap of markets and production trends in Canada and Ontario

CANADIAN REQUIREMENTS AND PRODUCTION

Canadian butterfat requirements in kilograms and actual butterfat production across the P10.

12-month production (in millions of kilograms)

12-month requirements (in millions of kilograms)

427.6 411.3

Canadian production has increased by 2.6 per cent over the previous 12 months, and requirements have increased by 2.1 per cent over the previous 12 months.

This graph shows Ontario’s SNF-BF ratio for the last 12 months.

2.154

Average increase in retail sales for dairy products sold in Ontario and the dairy product’s share of the total market sales, including at hotels, restaurants and institutions.

As of March 26, 2022 NATIONAL RETAIL SALES

* Source: AC Nielsen & StatsCan

NOTE: There is a two-month lag in the national retail sales data.

MAY HIGHLIGHTS

• As was the case in May, P5 boards have again agreed to not send any additional production signal or incentive day for the month of June;

• In April 2024, butter stocks reached 34, 820 tonnes, up from March by 1,605 tonnes. April butter stock levels are higher compared to April 2023;

• For the 52-weeks ending April 1, 2024, sales for fluid milk, fluid cream, yogurt, ice cream, cheese and butter increased/decreased by -0.5, -0.4, 3.0, 2.4, 2.4 and 1.9 per cent, respectively, compared with March 30, 2023.

ONTARIO UTILIZATION

202403

Percentage of the total milk produced in Ontario that was used to produce dairy products.

Fluid Milk & Cream Yogurt and Ice Cream Cheese

Butter & Powders Skim Milk Disposal

April 2024

P10 UTILIZATION BY CLASS

For April 2024 (kg of butterfat/kg of solids non-fat)

*There is a two-month lag reporting these figures

Class 1a1 (includes Classes 1a2, 1a3, 1c and 1d for confidentiality reasons) Fluid milk and beverages

Class 1b Fluid creams Class 2a Yogurt, yogurt beverages, kefir and lassi

Class 2b4 (includes Classes 2b1, 2b2 and 2b3 for confidentiality reasons) Fresh dairy desserts, sour cream, milkshakes and sports nutrition drinks

Class 2b5 Ice cream and frozen yogurt

Class 3a1 Specialty cheese

Class 3a2 Cheese curds and fresh cheeses

Class 3b2 (includes Class 3b1 for confidentiality reasons) Cheddar cheese and aged cheddar

Class 3c1 Feta

Class 3c2 Asiago, Gouda, Havarti, Parmesan and Swiss

Class 3c4 (includes Classes 3c3 and 3c5 for confidentiality reasons) Brick, Colby, farmer’s, jack, Monterey jack, muenster, pizza cheese, pizza mozzarella and mozzarella other than what falls within 3d

Class 3c6 Paneer

Class 3d Mozzarella used strictly on fresh pizzas by establishments registered with the Canadian Dairy Commission

Class 4a Butter and powders

Class 4d (includes Classes 4b1, 4b2, 4c and 4m for confidentiality reasons) Concentrated milk for retail, losses and animal feed

Class 5a Cheese for further processing

Class 5b Non-cheese products for further processing

Class 5c Confectionery products

ONTARIO MONTHLY PRODUCER AVERAGE GROSS BLEND PRICE

A total 3,188 producers sold milk to DFO in April compared with 3,238 a year earlier.

ONTARIO DEDUCTIONS, PER HL For April 2024

* These figures are based on Ontario’s average composition for April 2024 of 4.2909 kg butterfat, 3.3048 kg protein and 5.9376 kg other solids, rounded to the nearest cent.

P5 AND WESTERN MILK POOL BLEND PRICES *

The graph below shows the 12-month blend price for the P5 provinces and Western Milk Pool (WMP).

*There is a two-month lag reporting these figures

U.S. CLASS PRICES

The May 2024 Class III Price, US$18.55 per hundredweight, is equivalent to C$57.55 per hectolitre. This equivalent is based on the exchange rate US$1 = C$ 1.3669 the exchange rate when the USDA announced the Class III Price.

The Class III Price is in $ US per hundredweight at 3.5 per cent butterfat. One hundredweight equals 0.44 hectolitres. Canadian Class 5a and Class 5b prices track U.S. prices set by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Source: USDA

MONTHLY QUOTA PRICES

Co-ordinated by Dairy Farmers of Ontario’s communications and economics divisions. Questions? Please email questions@milk.org.

STAY UP TO DATE!

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From tag activation to animals entering or leaving your herd, DairyTrace makes reporting events simple. As traceability requirements grow to include our partners in the dairy traceability chain, DairyTrace continues to innovate.

Stay tuned for more DairyTrace resources and tools to make joining the movement

The evolution of today’s global genetic systems

By Jeanine Moyer

“EVERYWHERE YOU LOOK, dairy producers are leveraging genetics to be more productive,” says Mark Carson, solutions operations manager with Semex. It’s a statement that’s been repeated throughout recent decades thanks to research and innovation and the same can be said when forecasting what the next decade holds for dairy herds in Canada and across the globe.

Keeping a close eye on the evolution, trends and projections in the genetics industry, Carson shares his take on some of the greatest changes in global genetic systems and what to watch for.

It’s safe to say the speed of change in the genetics industry is the greatest achievement. “The innovations and adoption of new technologies and systems over the past 10 years has been more rapid that anyone could have predicted,” notes Carson. One of the most significant changes he’s seen is the industry shift from using proven sires to genomic sires. Sexed semen comes as a close second, with its ability to streamline the production of females and speed up genetic gains within individual herds. A new focus on female reproduction is also expected to accelerate genetic improvements. “Between sexed semen and the genomic testing of females, we are shrinking the genetic interval of herds,” he says.

Carson explains the dairy genetics industry has focused on sire improvements for the last 50 years, but now its attention shift to females could hold the greatest potential for herd improvements.

1. Merit based traits

Carson explains the dairy genetics industry has focused on sire improvements for the last 50 years, but now its attention shift to females could hold the greatest potential for herd improvements.

Here’s a look at the top five trends in global genetics that have changed in the industry over the past decade.

“More and more genetic decisions are being made in terms of dollars and return on investment,” says Carson, explaining there’s a growing interest in farms gravitating toward merit-based traits that will translate directly to a farm’s bottom line compared with single based traits. For example, evaluating bull genetic performance in terms of dollars that can be returned over the lifetime of an animal rather than introducing a select trait.

2. Selecting for sustainability

More than just a buzz word, sustainability

and the new genetic evaluations that are becoming available to reduce the dairy industry’s environmental impact are changing the way some producers are approaching their breeding programs. As we gain greater understanding of new opportunities like feed and methane efficiency genetic evaluations, the uptake may not only impact on-farm efficiencies, but also offer benefits throughout the value chain. For example, genetic sustainability traits could offer milk processors opportunities for environmental claims or improve the perception of dairy farms to consumers.

3. Sexed beef strategy

Already being adopted around the world, sexed semen is making waves on individual farms and throughout the industry. “A sexed beef strategy enables dairy producers to utilize a smaller nucleus of females to make the next generation of replacements,” explains Carson. It also maximizes the production of beef calves, providing new revenue streams and marketing opportunities. Carson predicts a sexed beef strategy could be one of the greatest shifts the global industry has seen and could become a mainstay in dairy operations.

4. Genomic testing

Genomics have significantly moved the needle in breeding programs. Now, with the ability to genomically test calves within weeks after birth and leverage that information to make more informed decisions earlier in an animal's life, breeding decisions are easier than ever. Carson notes the uptake in genomic testing is being readily adopted worldwide and this new

practice is improving everything from herd fertility levels to overall genetic gains.

5. Niche market traits

“There are opportunities for producers to differentiate themselves with niche traits if there is processing demand,” says Carson. When it comes to building consumer demand for milk, milk products and select brands, some milk processors are looking to source from farms that can offer differentiation.

Looking ahead

So, what’s next for the global dairy industry? Carson predicts a growing demand for traits that will enhance the sustainability of dairy operations. This could mean the development of new traits like methane indicators and feed efficiency, or anything else that can help measure and reduce dairy farms’ carbon footprint. He also expects continued focus on identifying profitable animals and using genetics to boost ROI rather than individual traits.

“I also forecast an emphasis on breeding cows that work favourably in select automated milking systems, like robots, and expect the vast amounts of data being collected today will help inform those genetic decisions,” says Carson.

Building on his expectation that a new focus on female genetics and reproduction will present the greatest opportunities for improving genetic systems, Carson notes genomic testing and IVF technologies as key innovations that will be used for female

“I also forecast an emphasis on breeding cows that work favourably in select automated milking systems, like robots, and expect the vast amounts of data being collected today will help inform those genetic decisions.”

– Mark Carson

selection. He says as these technologies become more commercialized and onfarm adoption increases, they will directly contribute to genetic gains.

He believes the next decade will see more producers taking herd genetic performance, customizing indexes and targeting trait selections to meet their herd needs.

“At the end of the day, what producers need for their dairy performance will be determined by building selection criteria to identify top males, and most importantly, females,” says Carson.

A Canadian perspective

“Canada is a leader in dairy genetics,” says Carson, noting Canada is keeping pace with most of the global trends identified. He says the country’s willingness to share data across the industry not only positions Canada as a global leader in dairy genetics data but also strengthens its position on the world stage.

From a technology perspective, Carson anticipates the adoption of genomic testing to grow across Canadian dairy farms. And, with more genetic information available, farmers will be able to use the information to make more informed breeding decisions. Canadian farmers are also expected to continue to take advantage of innovations that produce data, like robots, parlour technologies and sensors that will also contribute to genetic decisions.

He believes one of the Canadian dairy industry’s greatest strengths is working with partners and developing genetic traits for domestic and international markets. “We’re pioneering new traits like the methane indicator that we can leverage to our advantage within our own Canadian genetic systems and make an impact around the world,” he says. “The Canadian dairy industry continues to be a genetic powerhouse.”

How Martville Farms Improved Animal Care

Lessons learned from Ontario dairy farmers

By ACER Consulting

LIKE MANY ONTARIO DAIRY FARMS, Martville Farms is a family-run business. The Martin family, including Sonia and Gaetan Martin, along with their four children Chanelle, Jeremie, Benoit and Julianne, own and operate Martville Farms in Moose Creek Ont. To support Chanelle and Jeremie’s desire to join the family farming business, Sonia and Gaetan decided to expand their operation and transition their family into a new freestall parlor barn. Now milking 100 cows, Martville Farms is large enough to support the entire Martin family and their growing ambitions as young dairy farmers.

As Ontario dairy farmers, Sonia and Chanelle participate in the proAction program and receive regular on-farm assessments like all other farmers across Canada. Martville Farms was identified as a farm that showed substantial improvement in reducing knee and hock injuries in their herd over two proAction assessments. Here are some of Sonia and Chanelle’s perspectives on animal care as Ontario dairy farmers and the on-farm changes they made to improve the health of their dairy herd.

Despite the many things taken into consideration through this farm transition, Sonia, Chanelle and their family knew keeping cow comfort at the forefront of their priorities was critical to the success and longevity of their business, as well as to the health and welfare of their animals.

Animal care as a family and farm priority

For the Martin family, their animals have always been a top priority and animal care has always been an important part of the family business. Prioritizing animal care has translated to healthier cows with higher milk production. When it came to participating in a proAction animal care assessment, Sonia was initially put off by the additional paperwork that would come with an on-farm assessment. However, she found participating in the assessment was a simple process and helped her and her family identify some areas of improvement in the herd. Sonia noted that while they did fairly well on both of their previous assessments, hock and knee injuries were identified as two improvement areas.

At the time of their first assessment, Sonia and Gaetan were housing their cows in a tiestall facility and knew the barn design was no longer working for them. So, when the proAction results identified some issues with hocks and knees, they weren’t surprised. The plan to build a new, larger barn was already in the works but they made a few

changes in the tiestall system to improve cow comfort while preparing for the transition. Mattresses were added to stalls to improve hock and knee injuries, and hoof trimming was increased from once a year to approximately every six months. However, Sonia noticed the greatest improvement in their herd health and welfare when they transitioned from their tiestall barn to the new freestall system.

Decisions supported by science. aThe opportunity for increased movement through less restrictive housing has health

A new barn for a growing family business

When Chanelle and Jeremie expressed interest in returning home to work on the farm, Sonia and Gaetan knew a change was in order. The family decided to expand the farm and increase their revenue to support three farming families. They knew a freestall system would be the best fit for their family and their cows today, as well as in the future, and began planning to transition their cows to a new barn.

The transition went smoothly, and Sonia and Chanelle noticed improvements in their herd right away. Hock, knee and neck injuries were no longer a concern. In the old barn, Sonia mentioned almost every cow required assistance at calving. However, in the freestall system, cows are calving much easier and almost never need assistancec. With more space to move around and deeper bedding, the cows were more comfortable and started producing more milk right away. It was clear to Sonia and Chanelle their cows were happier and healthier in their new barn. “We offer them to go outside now and they'd rather stay in the barn than go outside. They’re just comfortable. They’re just happy [cows] ... I think it’s because they get to move around, and the stalls are bigger and it’s deep bedding. I think those were the main things we noticed straight away.”

Decisions supported by science

bHousing designed to offer more space and incentive to move can increase cows' levels of locomotor activity, exploration and socializing.

Other farmers are part of the solution

Over the course of a year, Sonia and her children visited farms across the province to learn about different farming systems. Fellow farmers were highly influential for the Martins as they set out to design, build and farm with a new system. To help with farm succession and the eventual transition of farm ownership to their children, Sonia and Gaetan knew it was critical to get the kids involved at the onset and include their opinions when building a barn for their future. Despite the many things taken into consideration through this farm transition, Sonia, Chanelle and their family knew keeping cow comfort at the forefront of their priorities was critical to the success and longevity of their business, as well as to the health and welfare of their animals.

This project was developed by ACER Consulting and funded and supported by the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food, and Rural Affairs, Dairy Farmers of Ontario and the University of Guelph.

To read other project details, a technical note and listen to podcasts with farmers, visit: https://acerconsult.ca/output/on-dairy-ktt/.

References

“Decisions supported by science” statements are supported by the Lameness and Inju

cLess restrictive housing has been shown to improve physiological outcomes including dystocia.

Adjusting along the way

Like with any big change, some adjustments were involved with building a barn and switching to a new management system. As the new barn build was carried out, the initial plans and budget had to be expanded to accommodate changes for improved functionality. Building a barn and transitioning to a freestall system was a learning curve for the Martins; however, Chanelle was able to get the farm set up with a new computerized record-keeping system and the cows adjusted well to the new parlour milking system.

HYDRATING FOR HEALTH

Clean, high-quality water is important for calves of all ages

By Veal Farmers of Ontario

DAILY WATER NEEDS FOR CALVES depend on many factors including age, diet, environmental temperature and health status. Proper hydration enhances rumen development, enzymatic activity and absorption of nutrients from feed. Calves with an insufficient water supply will limit their solid feed intake. While it is typically assumed calves get enough hydration from their milk or milk replacer and do not need water during the first days of life, studies show milk replacer is not a sufficient water source for young calves.

Offer water freely

A 2018 study by Wickramasinghe et. al. reported newborn calves drank about 0.75 litres per day of water during the first 16 days of life. After day 17, calves were drinking about 0.82 L daily. Once calves were fully weaned (49 days of age), they consumed about 5.3 L of water daily. Older calves around 180 kilograms can also drink up to 30 litres of water daily, making monitoring water quality parameters and ensuring water is available for calves of all ages.

Experts recommend offering calves water free choice; at minimum they must have access to enough water to maintain normal hydration

•

•

•

and health, while taking into consideration various factors, such as environmental temperature. In warmer months, monitor consumption and offer more water if needed. A temperature change from 20 to 30 degrees Celsius increases water intake by one litre daily, with much greater increases past 32 C.

Dehydration can also happen quickly. During periods of water loss, (e.g. scours, hot, humid weather) or water restriction, body fluid reductions can negatively impact metabolism and feed intake. Even mild dehydration reduces metabolic efficiency and impairs a calf’s ability to regulate body heat. Offering cold water may also discourage intake, especially in young calves. Aim for water temperature around 10 to 20 C to encourage consistent consumption.

Water quality and safety are paramount

Watering equipment must also be in good repair, functional and free of manure and mould. Ensure water troughs are easily accessible and placed strategically within calf housing areas.

It is very important water is safe and palatable not only for animals but for the safety of family and employees. Water needs to be free of contamination and have appropriate levels of chemicals and minerals. Regular testing ensures ongoing safety and helps detect any changes promptly.

Water quality must be tested annually, and experts recommend testing in spring and fall. If water quality test results indicate contamination, it may be prudent to repeat the test. If the second test is positive, consult a water quality specialist at the Canadian Water Quality Association at https://www.cwqa.com to determine the best

way to the address water quality issues, especially if it’s the same well used for the house and barn.

Water quality can be impacted by water source. Testing should be done whether it comes from a drilled well, a municipal source or surface water. Drilled wells greater than 24 metres usually provide good quality water. Shallow dug or bored wells are more prone to ground water contamination and higher nitrate levels. Municipal source water is usually tested for chemicals and bacteria by the municipality according to provincial regulations. Surface water is another viable water source option; however, when surface water from ponds, lakes and streams is used, water treatment is necessary to ensure calves are offered high-quality water.

Water with a high pH level (alkaline) impacts chlorination effectiveness, as well as other disinfectants. It is also important to note some water-soluble medications are affected by a high-water pH, which causes them not to go into suspension. Similarly, water-soluble medications and some disinfectants in an acidic environment (low pH) have reduced effectiveness. Milk replacers dissolve the best in neutral pH of about 7.2.

Water intake can positively impact calf growth

Calves drink a significant amount of water as early as one day of age. Water intake can translate into improved growth performance before and after weaning by enhancing rumen development and nutrient utilization efficiency. After weaning, water intake increases along with starter intake. Providing calves with access to fresh water from the first day of life is one of the easiest and cheapest management practices to encourage calf growth.

Calf Care Corner, brought to you by Veal Farmers of Ontario, delivers the latest information to help you improve the way calves are raised on your farm. Follow @CalfCareCorner on Facebook and sign-up for monthly e-newsletters on calfcare.ca.

ANALYSING STUDY ON ANIMAL AGRICULTURE IN CANADA

Livestock industry futures requires new thinking and bold ideas, panelists say

By Lilian Schaer for Livestock Research Innovation Corporation (LRIC)

A PANEL OF EXPERTS suggests Canadian animal agriculture needs to change its thinking around how it approaches research, innovation and attracting and keeping people in the sector as industry, government and academia look to a future that offers both challenges and opportunities.

The panel was convened by Livestock Research Innovation Corporation (LRIC) to discuss a recent report by the Canadian Agri-Food Policy Institute (CAPI), which found that while livestock are an important part of the Canadian economy and environment, the industry is threatened by growing risks from disease, loss of land or markets, extreme weather and an unbalanced public discourse around the world’s protein needs.

Panelists included Dr. Christine Baes, chair of the department of animal biosciences at the University of Guelph; Helen Ann Hudson, senior advisor on corporate social responsibility at Burnbrae Farms Ltd.; and Stephen Duff, chief economist at the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food & Rural Affairs.

What struck you as you read the report?

Stephen Duff: It is very clear to me we need to get the message out about the livestock industry’s significant contribution, but I also think the report missed a number of key points that need to be expanded on. When you look at competitiveness, we are good at converting feed, but our capital structure is over-capitalized, so we aren’t as competitive as we think we are. There are a lot of nuances in a document like this that get missed but, overall, the message is important, and we need to advance it.

Christine Baes: What struck me probably most is the $20.5 billion economic impact animal agriculture has. I have heard the CEO of Ontario Genomics talk about the $13 billion opportunity that is cellular agriculture. The market that used to be ours is opening up and there are other people who know what humans want to eat and they want protein. We are good at producing protein and that market is not ours alone anymore, so we have to do the best we can to make sure we are sustainable in terms of economics, ethics, societal acceptability and the environment.

Helen Ann Hudson: I was excited to read about the emissions factors for livestock and how low they are. Today, there is so much focus on net zero claims, but what does that mean? Animal agriculture in Canada is already so efficient. Emissions are everybody’s problem, and we need to be part of the process to get to net zero, but we need to keep some balance in mind. We need to be promoting the quality of our protein and showing off our advantages a little bit better. Just Egg has a (plant-based egg) product that has six grams of protein, which is like an egg but (its) amino acid profile is nowhere near that of a real egg.

Who needs to do what coming out of this report?

Hudson: We need to find a way to collectively use it. There is a lot of information that would inform consumers so it’s about communications and consumer messaging. Who should lead this? We are all doing consumer education but is it effective? We need to measure our success a bit better.

Baes: Every single one of us should be visionary leaders. We all have a vested interest in all parts of this industry even if we don’t get up at 4 a.m. to milk cows. So, what can we all do within our respective roles to help improve? From a University of Guelph standpoint, we should work together across colleges, (such as) thinking about a protein institute and what can be done across proteins.

Duff: For me, the paper identifies several knowledge gaps, which I think all of us can advance. The paper shows we’re a low emissions producer, which is great for us, but is it really true? We have to be really innovative, and this paper starts at that, like the industry scorecard or the sustainability index that CAPI is leading.

What are the barriers causing Canada to fall behind?

Baes: It’s not as bad as we think. When we have something good, we accept it quickly. Canada is the first country in the world, for example, to have a breeding value for methane. Agriculture in Canada is responsible for 10 per cent of greenhouse gas emissions nationwide; we aren’t the biggest problem but if we are socially aware,

that’s an important dialogue and the barriers come out of our own ranks. We scoff at the vegans and vegetarians but they’re not getting any fewer so we should listen instead of trying to educate.

Hudson: Regulations. Innovation takes a long time, and we need good support for research to allow innovation to happen.

Duff: Innovation can often be driven by necessity, so we focus on things that can make us more efficient. I’m not sure I buy the assertion that we are lagging. There are examples but does it mean they are prevalent? Our sector tends to be more negative than positive if you’re around it long enough and it isn’t always welcoming to new people wanting to come into it. That can be a challenge, but it’s not exclusive to agriculture – the trades are an example of that as well.

What do you think needs to be done with regard to innovation?

Baes: The University of Guelph is a fantastic place to be, and we do amazing research, but our building is falling apart, so we are trying to recruit the world’s best minds to a place where you will be sitting in a windowless basement for three years. We are grateful for the beautiful (research) stations we already have but if we want to be world class for the next 20 to 30 years, we need to put our heads together and we have to do better. It will take effort and money. A PhD student gets $30,000 a year and they pay $10,000 to $20,000 a year in tuition. There are other opportunities for these smart minds; they could work for Google.

Hudson: We need to be doing innovation. I see a real problem with people in the workforce. We need to be reviving agricultural engineering, we need mechanization to get people to work in our plants, and we need artificial intelligence in our barns to help us manage birds and other livestock so we can improve on the metrics we have.

Forage & Grain Treatment

16 DIFFERENT ENZYMES TO PREDIGEST FIBRE

MULTIPLE STRAINS OF LACTIC ACID BACTERIA

IMPROVE CELL WALL DIGESTIBILITY

USES ANTIOXIDANTS TO LIMIT RESPIRATION

REDUCES pH FOR A MORE STABLE ENSILING PROCESS

Duff: Priorities change a lot, and they are often unclear and hard to follow. We need continued focus from industry, government and universities with respect to research agendas. There is a need for more directed research instead of general calls and universities should be more prepared to provide analysis and more effort with respect to adoption. We don’t have the extension resources we used to, and certainly not the farm business management resources – so whose role is it?

The CAPI study Forces Impacting Animal Agriculture in Canada: A Synthesis was funded by LRIC, Grand River Agricultural Society, UFA Co-operative, Dairy Farmers of Canada and Canadian Cattle Association.

Livestock Research Innovation Corporation is funded in part by the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (Sustainable CAP), a five-year, federal-provincial-territorial initiative. This article is provided by LRIC as part of its ongoing efforts to report on research, innovation, and issues affecting the Canadian livestock industry.

PRIORITIZING POSITIVE MENTAL HEALTH FOR FARMERS

By Workplace Safety & Prevention Services

As farm owners and operators, we know a healthy team is a productive team. We proactively support the physical and mental health of our workers by prioritizing safe work conditions, a positive environment and a good work-life balance. So, why don’t we prioritize these things for ourselves?

“Farmers worry about everyone and everything on the farm except themselves,” says Ryan Dick, health and safety consultant with Workplace Safety and Prevention Services. “They are part of the farm team, too,” he says. “They need to pay attention to their own health and well-being along with that of others on the farm.”

Stress from the financial uncertainty often faced by farmers, coupled with the isolation of being in remote locations, can lead to depression,

“Farmers worry about everyone and everything on the farm except themselves. They are part of the farm team, too. They need to pay attention to their own health and wellbeing along with that of others on the farm.”

Ryan Dick

anxiety and other mental health challenges. Add to that the ongoing stigma of mental illness among the community and a lack of accessible mental health supports, it’s not surprising mental health suffering among farmers has been rising.

To address this growing concern and promote wellness and resilience, the Farmer Wellness Initiative was launched with funding from the provincial and federal governments. The Farmer Wellness Initiative (farmerwellnessinitiative.ca) is a 24-hour telehealth line that provides mental wellness support and free counselling services to Ontario farmers and their families. When you call, you will speak with trained professionals who understand the unique circumstances of life as a farmer.

“Having this kind of access to mental health supports is really important for the farming community,” says Ryan. “And it’s someone other than your spouse or your neighbour. Sometimes it’s easier to discuss problems with someone who’s not involved in your daily life.”

Five coping strategies for positive mental health

Ryan hopes more farmers will use this free counselling resource to help cope with periods of high stress and anxiety. He also recommends these five tips to sustain positive mental health:

1. Set aside time for yourself. We all need a separation between our workday and our home life; however, this can be more difficult to accomplish when you live and work on your farm. Ryan recommends finding an activity you enjoy that helps you relax. Do this activity at the end of your workday. “Remind yourself it’s time to stop for the day and give yourself some time to decompress,” he says. “If you don’t, you’ll keep adding more to your to-do list and you’ll eventually burnout.”

2. Attend social events. Whether it’s an organized community event, dinner with a neighbour or an employee lunch, being with others and having social interaction is important.

3. Check in with friends and family. If you haven’t heard from your neighbour in a while or you notice a family member is overly irritable, take a minute to ask them how they are doing. Changes in behaviour, even small ones, may be an indication something isn’t quite right.

4. Take care of your physical health. Getting enough sleep, eating well and staying physically active help cope with stress. When your physical health is on track, you feel better.

5. Talk to someone. Keeping things to yourself creates feelings of isolation. Talk to your friends, family members or call the Farmer Wellness Initiative. Acknowledge how you feel and talk to someone about it.

You are an important part of the farm team and your health matters just as much as everything else. Check out Agriculture Wellness Ontario (agriculturewellnessontario.ca) to find out more about the mental health resources available to you.

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