The episode highlights recent research in lactating Holstein cows showing that applying FerAppease at the time of artificial insemination increased pregnancy per AI from 47.7% in control cows to 60.2% in treated cows. Brad also walks through the potential economics, estimating a strong return on investment when improved pregnancy rates are valued at the farm level.

Brad then discusses a calf study looking at FerAppease use around disbudding. Treated calves showed signs of reduced stress, including lower cortisol measures, and had improved average daily gain shortly after disbudding. While more research is needed, Brad notes that FerAppease may be a useful non-antibiotic, non-hormonal tool for reducing stress and improving outcomes during key management events.

Questions, comments, scathing rebuttals? -> themoosroom@umn.edu or call 612-624-3610 and leave us a message!

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The episode also compares several virtual fencing systems available to U.S. producers, including Vence, Gallagher, Halter, and Nofence. Brad walks through major considerations such as collar weight, cellular versus base station connectivity, battery life, subscription fees, and upfront costs. He also discusses how virtual fencing may compare financially with traditional physical fencing and why more research is needed to understand its fit in dairy grazing systems.

Brad also previews upcoming virtual fencing work at the University of Minnesota West Central Research and Outreach Center, where multiple systems will be tested with dairy cattle to better understand labor needs, cost, practicality, and overall performance in real grazing conditions. 

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The disease is a major threat to young calves, causing severe illness and high mortality, while often spreading silently through carrier animals and contaminated environments. New PCR testing shows the pathogen is far more common than traditional methods suggest.

Key risk factors include frequent introduction of new calves, mixing animals post-weaning, and human movement (boots, equipment) spreading contamination between areas.

Bottom line: Salmonella Dublin isn’t random—it reflects management. Strong biosecurity, better calf flow, delayed weaning, and improved monitoring are critical to reducing risk.

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Using data from thousands of Holstein cows across multiple herds, the team found that health costs are heavily concentrated in the first 30 days of lactation, when cows face metabolic stress from calving and high milk production. However, issues like lameness and mastitis continue to accumulate costs throughout the lactation, especially in older cows. In fact, total health costs more than double from first to later lactations, reflecting wear, immune fatigue, and management differences.

A key takeaway: management determines cost, but genetics influence risk. While some high-cost conditions (like reproductive disorders) are difficult to improve genetically, others—such as mastitis and metabolic disease—show stronger heritability.

The breakthrough insight is that total health cost itself is moderately heritable (~0.25)—much higher than traditional “sick vs. not sick” measures. This means selecting animals based on overall health cost could drive faster genetic progress than current methods.

Brad also highlights important genetic and phenotypic relationships:

•  Higher milk production is linked to increased health costs 
•  Lower somatic cell count strongly reduces total health costs 
•  Taller, more angular cows tend to have higher health costs 
•  Shallower udders are associated with better health outcomes 

From a practical standpoint, the episode emphasizes:

•  The need for consistent, detailed health and cost recording
•  Moving beyond binary disease tracking to full economic impact
•  Incorporating total health cost into sire selection decisions

Bottom line: Selecting for lower total health cost can improve profitability, extend cow longevity, and enhance animal welfare—potentially saving tens of thousands of dollars at the herd level in just one generation.

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Overall, forage production depended heavily on species and shade level. Cool-season grasses like meadow fescue and orchardgrass performed well under solar panels, sometimes even producing more biomass than in open pasture. In contrast, warm-season species like sorghum-sudangrass struggled under shaded conditions. Legumes such as red clover maintained strong performance and contributed to improved forage quality.

One of the biggest takeaways was that while heavier shade can reduce total biomass, it often improves forage quality. Grasses grown under solar panels showed higher crude protein and greater fiber digestibility, especially in more shaded systems. This suggests agrivoltaic systems can still produce high-quality feed, even when yield is slightly reduced.

The episode highlights that selecting the right species—particularly shade-tolerant cool-season grasses and legume mixtures—is key to success in grazing-based solar systems. Ultimately, agrivoltaics offers a promising opportunity to combine livestock production with renewable energy, providing both high-quality forage and an additional revenue stream for farmers.

Agrivoltaic arrays and effects of forage biomass and nutritive value of grasses and legumes for grazing dairy cattle
https://www.jdscommun.org/article/S2666-9102(26)00073-6/fulltext

Agrivoltaics Webinar Cattle and Kilowatts 4/14
Sponsored by University of Minnesota Extension

Our first webinar is April 14th, 2026 5pm CT.

Register for the zoom link: z.umn.edu/cattlekilowatts

Cattle and kilowatts webinar: Real-world solar grazing in practice

Join the University of Minnesota Extension for an in-depth webinar featuring pioneers of cattle solar grazing. This session moves beyond theory and into the pasture, focusing on the practical management, infrastructure, and animal welfare considerations of running cattle on solar sites. Guest speakers include Will Harris and Dale Caldwell (White Oak Pastures) leaders in regenerative agriculture who have integrated solar grazing into their multi-species operation in Bluffton, Georgia. Josh Bennett (HUWA Enterprises), an agrimation expert at the forefront of cattle-ready solar design will also join the discussion.

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Across studies from Canada and Brazil, crossbred calves consistently showed advantages: lower rates of diarrhea, fewer treatment interventions, improved starter intake, and greater feed efficiency. While respiratory disease incidence was similar, crossbreds recovered faster and required fewer treatments. By 84 days, crossbred calves were heavier and more efficient to raise, reinforcing long-standing evidence that heterosis improves calf performance. The takeaway is clear: beef-on-dairy calves not only bring strong market value but also demonstrate biological and economic advantages during the pre-weaning phase—making them an increasingly attractive strategy for dairy producers navigating volatile milk markets.
 
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The study evaluated a Medgene horn fly vaccine designed to disrupt the fly’s ability to take a blood meal, ultimately reducing reproduction. Researchers vaccinated about half of the cows and heifers across organic (pasture-based) and conventional (dry lot) systems and tracked fly populations throughout the summer. While no differences were observed for face flies or stable flies—as expected—the vaccine showed promising results for horn flies. There was little effect in conventional cows, but in pasture-based animals, especially heifers, vaccinated groups experienced a consistent 30–40% reduction in horn fly numbers compared to controls.

Overall, the findings suggest that horn fly vaccination could be a valuable new tool—particularly for grazing and organic dairy systems—to help manage fly pressure and improve animal well-being over time.

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A big part of the episode focuses on the red-hot calf market, especially for beef-on-dairy crosses. Brad highlights eye-popping prices from Minnesota sale barns, where Holstein bull calves and beef-cross calves are bringing in far more than producers would have expected just a few years ago. He reflects on how dramatically the economics of beef-on-dairy have changed and what that could mean for breeding decisions on dairies this year.

The second half of the episode dives into the new national herd data, including milk production, components, somatic cell counts, herd size, and breed distribution across the country. Brad walks through where Holsteins, Jerseys, crossbreds, Brown Swiss, Guernseys, Ayrshires, and Milking Shorthorns stand today, and which states are leading in cow numbers and herd size. It’s a practical, numbers-driven look at dairy trends in the U.S. and a useful update for anyone interested in genetics, herd demographics, and where the industry is heading.

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The study followed individually housed calves fed six liters of milk per day until weaning at eight weeks. Calves fed with open buckets finished their milk much faster, often in under two minutes, while nipple-fed calves took about five minutes because the system mimics natural suckling. Despite the difference in drinking speed, both groups had similar growth rates and physical development.

However, behavior and digestion told a more interesting story. Calves fed with open buckets consumed more starter grain and spent more time ruminating, but they also showed more non-nutritive oral behaviors like sucking on pen fixtures or other calves—likely because their natural suckling drive wasn’t satisfied. Nipple-fed calves showed fewer of these behaviors, had slightly firmer feces, and exhibited metabolic signals suggesting improved digestion.

Brad breaks down the trade-offs for dairy producers: open buckets offer efficiency and faster feeding, while nipple buckets may better support calf welfare and natural behavior. The episode highlights how feeding systems can influence calf behavior, digestion, and management decisions on dairy farms.

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He walks through two calf losses—one at 60 days old and another at 9 months. Both animals had been treated for common issues but continued to decline. Necropsies revealed severe heart abnormalities in each case (thin, underdeveloped ventricles), pointing toward possible genetic or nutritional causes. The takeaway: without a necropsy, these would have remained unexplained losses.

Brad also discusses a recent abortion in a dry cow. Diagnostic testing ruled out BVD and IBR and identified Citrobacter sp., an environmental organism found in manure, soil, and bedding that can contribute to abortions. He suspects environmental exposure in wintered dry cows may have played a role.

Overall, the episode emphasizes investigating unexpected losses, using lab diagnostics, and learning from on-farm challenges as spring calving approaches.

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Inspired by a recent Journal of Dairy Science paper, they move beyond the classic Holstein vs. Jersey debate to discuss a more balanced vision. Instead of selecting for maximum milk at all costs, the future cow will prioritize resilience, fertility, longevity, feed efficiency, and environmental sustainability.

They explore how genomics must be paired with real-world performance data (phenotypes), how precision technologies and robots are shaping breeding goals, and why moderate size and genetic diversity matter. From methane efficiency to beef-on-dairy and even gene editing, the episode highlights how breeding decisions today are shaping a smarter, more sustainable cow for tomorrow.

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They discuss why newborn beef-cross calves are bringing record prices, how that cash can help dairy farms when milk prices are low, and what the latest Cattle on Feed report tells us about declining inventories and producers’ reluctance to keep heifers as replacements. The group then dives into beef-on-dairy sire selection, emphasizing realistic goals over the search for a “perfect” bull, the importance of calving ease and fertility, and when carcass traits and indexes matter based on how calves are marketed.

The episode wraps up with a practical look at facilities and management, underscoring that good management—more than perfect buildings—drives success with beef-on-dairy cattle.

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The episode opens with a look at dairy farm numbers in Minnesota, where the state has lost nearly 37% of its dairy farms since 2019—dropping from 2,567 to just 1,622 operations. Brad breaks down herd size distribution, showing Minnesota remains dominated by small herds (especially 50–100 cows), even as the number of very large herds continues to grow. He also highlights where dairy farms are concentrated geographically, with Stearns County leading the state, and notes that seven Minnesota counties now have no dairy farms at all.

Brad then compares Minnesota to Wisconsin, which still has over 5,100 licensed dairy farms. Wisconsin’s dairy industry includes a notable number of goat dairies (nearly 400) and a small but interesting presence of sheep dairies. He walks through the top dairy counties in Wisconsin, illustrating how dairy production clusters in central, southwestern, and Green Bay–adjacent regions.

In the second half of the episode, Brad discusses a new Purdue University study examining dairy cow preferences for grooming brushes. Researchers compared three brush types—swinging and rotating, swinging only, and stationary—and found that more than 75% of cows preferred the swinging, rotating brush. Cows spent several minutes grooming their heads, backs, and rumps, with rotating brushes offering the most engagement and relaxation. While stationary brushes were used mainly for head scratching, the study suggests that offering a variety of brush types may give cows valuable choice and enrichment.

Brad wraps up by reflecting on what these trends mean for dairy farm viability, animal welfare, and management decisions—leaving listeners with practical insights and plenty to think about.

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His selection philosophy is clear: he starts with Net Merit, but he doesn’t blindly follow it. Brad says he doesn’t chase milk pounds, and he wishes the major indexes put more emphasis on fertility. Instead, his priorities are:

• Low somatic cell count / mastitis resistance
• High fertility (DPR, heifer and cow conception rate)
• Productive life and durability
• Managing inbreeding (using outcross sires when needed)
• A major current push: polled genetics (especially homozygous polled sires to speed progress)

Brad shares many of the specific bulls he’s using and why—including proven sires with lots of daughters for reliability, plus a smaller “sprinkling” of genomic bulls (often because they’re polled). He highlights using popular Holstein sires like Genosource Captain, polled-focused options like Leyser PP and Seabrook PP, plus a few high-type outcross bulls mainly to reduce inbreeding, even if their production or functional traits aren’t his usual preference. He also lists several Select Sires bulls (including polled sires) that fit his functional-trait focus.

On the Jersey side, he emphasizes moderate cows with fertility, productive life, and livability, again weaving in polled where possible. For crossbreeding, he calls out Norwegian Red bulls with strong U.S. proofs for fertility and functional traits, and he mentions finding limited polled options in Montbéliarde but using them when available. He wraps by summarizing what listeners should take away: his herd is moving deliberately toward polled, backed by a USDA grant, while still prioritizing fertility, longevity, mastitis resistance, and outcrossing to manage inbreeding—and he invites feedback and debate from listeners.

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Using more than 10 years of CowManager sensor data from the University of Minnesota research herd, Brad walks through how different breeds (Holsteins, crossbreds, graze-cross cows, and 1964 Holstein genetics) show distinct seasonal rhythms. Results revealed clear breed differences in eating time, rumination, overall activity, and inactivity, with graze-cross cows showing the strongest seasonal patterns and more stable alignment with environmental cues—suggesting better adaptability to pasture-based systems.

The episode highlights how disruptions to circadian rhythms—caused by inconsistent lighting, feeding schedules, or confinement—may be linked to stress, immune suppression, lameness, mastitis, and reduced fertility. Brad discusses how precision dairy technologies offer a powerful, non-invasive way to monitor these rhythms and potentially detect welfare issues before clinical signs appear.

The episode wraps up by looking ahead to future research linking behavior patterns directly to health and productivity outcomes, and how better alignment of management practices with natural cow rhythms could improve welfare and resilience on dairy farms.

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She begins by emphasizing the foundation of mastitis prevention: clean, dry bedding, cow comfort, and good ventilation. These basics reduce stress on cows and limit bacterial exposure, which is especially important when winter conditions can lead to damp or dirty housing.

Emily then dives into winter-specific milking routine challenges, especially when cows are exposed to cold temperatures after milking. Wet teats are at much higher risk of frostbite, which can permanently damage teat ends and predispose cows to infections. While this makes some producers hesitant to use post-milking teat dip in cold weather, Emily strongly advises against skipping this crucial step. Instead, she shares a practical guideline:
“Don’t skip dip—but don’t drip.”

 In other words, apply teat dip thoroughly, but avoid excessive dripping that can freeze. Letting cows stand for 20–30 seconds after dipping and wiping off excess dip before they go outside can provide protection against both mastitis and frostbite.

She also discusses udder hair management, noting that long hair can trap teat dip, manure, and moisture. Options like singeing or clipping udders can help keep teats cleaner and drier, especially in winter.

Finally, Emily highlights the role of nutrition in mastitis prevention. Cold stress increases a cow’s energy needs, and inadequate nutrition can weaken immune function. Ensuring cows receive enough energy, protein, vitamins, and minerals helps support immune defenses and overall udder health. Working closely with a nutritionist during the winter is key.

Emily wraps up by reminding listeners that even if mastitis seems less severe in winter than in summer, it still requires consistent attention year-round. With proper milking routines, clean housing, good nutrition, and smart winter management, producers can protect teat health and keep somatic cell counts in check all season long.

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The key concept is “controlling activities,” defined as proactive checks and analysis (not just reacting and “putting out fires”). They break these into three categories: animal controls (pen walks, fresh/sick cow monitoring, reviewing sensor alerts), feeding controls (bunk/refusal checks, feed sampling, monitoring mixing and storage), and process controls (reviewing herd records, equipment checks, ventilation/manure systems, cleanliness).

A big takeaway: herd managers spent much of their day on communication and logistics, while only about 15% of time went to controlling activities (animal ~9%, feeding ~1%, process ~5%). Yet the study found that performance wasn’t linked to total hours worked, but to how much time was dedicated to these proactive controls. Farms where managers spent more time on controlling activities showed better outcomes, including lower mortality, lower somatic cell count, higher lifetime production, and reduced youngstock losses.

They also highlight a concerning “disconnect” around feeding: managers often had minimal involvement in feed-related controls even though feed is a major cost and driver of health and production. The episode closes with practical guidance for any farm size: prioritize time intentionally, increase proactive controlling activities (even slightly), and ensure herd managers stay connected to the feeding process—setting the tone for a more efficient, resilient 2026.

Questions, comments, scathing rebuttals? -> themoosroom@umn.edu or call 612-624-3610 and leave us a message!

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Brad highlights the value of openly sharing on-farm challenges—from calf health issues to nutrition troubleshooting—so listeners can learn alongside the research process. Emily shares how 2025 deepened her understanding of virtual fencing, renewable energy in agriculture, and farm safety, while continuing to champion sunscreen use year-round.

Looking ahead to 2026, they preview upcoming projects and episodes on virtual fencing, agrivoltaics, genetics, feed efficiency, and a new study raising purebred Angus calves in a dairy system. They also hope to expand global perspectives on livestock and agriculture and invite listeners to suggest topics, guests, and on-air case studies.

They close by thanking listeners for another year of support and looking forward to more conversations in 2026.

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She outlines three simple steps for setting boundaries—being clear and direct, stating what you need, and accepting any discomfort that may follow—and walks through real-world examples such as saying no, redirecting conversations, asking for time, and stepping away when needed. Emily emphasizes that boundaries can be temporary or permanent, and that setting them is an important form of self-care.

The episode closes with a reminder that boundaries help reduce unnecessary stress, support resilience, and contribute to healthier relationships. Emily encourages listeners to reflect on their own needs this holiday season and to remember that taking care of yourself is not selfish—it’s essential.

Questions, comments, scathing rebuttals? -> themoosroom@umn.edu or call 612-624-3610 and leave us a message!

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The discussion highlights colostrum management as the single most critical factor influencing calf outcomes. Calves fed two colostrum meals had higher serum protein levels, significantly lower rates of failure of passive transfer, and were about 50% less likely to develop diarrhea—one of the leading causes of pre-weaning mortality. Other key drivers of calf survival included diarrhea, pneumonia, dam parity, gestation length, and birth season, with transport duration explaining relatively little of the variation in outcomes. Brad emphasizes that a calf’s “destiny is largely sealed before the wheels start rolling,” underscoring that management decisions made at birth—especially colostrum feeding, dam health, and environmental stress mitigation—matter far more than transport distance alone.

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Angie shares how she went from growing up in suburban Maple Grove to studying Spanish education, teaching in schools, and eventually being inspired to pursue veterinary medicine. Her training and work took her across the western U.S., where she gained experience in beef and dairy systems before returning to Minnesota to practice large-animal medicine. Her love for both animals and education ultimately led her to Extension.

The conversation explores:

• How Angie’s Spanish language background shapes her work and the opportunities it creates for better outreach and training with Spanish-speaking livestock employees.
• Current and emerging livestock health concerns, and the importance of distinguishing real risks from media frenzy—while still preparing producers with good information.
• The evolving role of veterinarians in dairy and beef systems, from herd health and data-driven decision-making to the value of strong producer–vet relationships.
• Animal behavior and welfare science, an area Angie is especially passionate about integrating into herd health discussions.

Angie also highlights upcoming Extension programs she’ll be involved in, including the new Artificial Insemination School, Beef Quality Assurance certification sessions, Cow/Calf Days, and several small ruminant programs—from webinars to hands-on lambing and kidding workshops.

It's a fun, thoughtful conversation introducing a new member of the Extension livestock team and setting the stage for exciting work ahead.

Questions, comments, scathing rebuttals? -> themoosroom@umn.edu or call 612-624-3610 and leave us a message!

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A recent visit from an outside nutrition team helped uncover several key issues contributing to poor performance. Brad walks listeners through what those “fresh eyes” found across young stock, calves, dry cows, and both the organic and conventional lactating herds. From overconditioned heifers to transition problems at weaning, ration inconsistencies, possible ingredient imbalances, and major concerns with hammer-mill screen size causing undigested corn to pass straight through cows—each discovery points to opportunities for improvement.

The conversation also highlights the importance of forage management, including the need for a silage facer, better bunk management, and a long-overdue TMR audit to evaluate mixing order, load prep, refusals, shrink, and ration consistency.

Throughout the episode, Brad emphasizes transparency and the value of bringing in additional perspectives. Even well-managed dairies can develop blind spots, and small issues add up fast when milk is left on the table. He outlines the farm’s next steps and promises future updates as changes are implemented.

If you’re interested in nutrition, transition cow health, TMR audits, or practical herd-level troubleshooting, this episode is a real-world case study in identifying problems and planning for better performance.

Questions, comments, scathing rebuttals? -> themoosroom@umn.edu or call 612-624-3610 and leave us a message!

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Together, Brad and Emily walk through:

• Why stress is so high right now — uncertainty in markets, weather, disease, economic pressure, and social isolation.
• Common mental health concerns in farmers, including chronic stress, anxiety, and depression.
• Key warning signs to watch for in yourself and others—physical symptoms, behavioral changes, and emotional red flags.
• How to reach out when you're concerned about someone, and why it matters more than people realize.
• Barriers rural residents face when accessing mental health care, including service shortages and stigma.
• University of Minnesota Extension’s work supporting mental health, including training programs like COMET, resources on ambiguous loss, and broader regional efforts to make help more accessible.

Emily emphasizes that checking in, offering support, and connecting people to resources can make a meaningful difference. The episode wraps with reminders that it’s okay to not be okay—but it’s not okay to keep it to yourself. Brad and Emily also point listeners to a long list of mental health and farm stress resources in the show notes, including Emily’s recent appearance on RFD-TV discussing this very topic.

COMET: Changing our mental and emotional trajectory Training

Ambiguous loss and farming

UMN Extension Farm Safety and Health webpage

Minnesota Farm Stress resources

Farm Aid Farmer Resource Network

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On the farm visits, Brad digs into why one 1,700-cow dairy is ripping out a barn full of robots after just a few years—citing software headaches, maintenance demands, and an extra dollar per hundredweight in cost—and how they’re using strict 5-minute milking times and strong beef-on-dairy markets to stay competitive. He then visits a Holstein dairy using parlor timers, FutureCow brushes, genomic testing, Akushi (red Wagyu) beef-on-dairy crosses, intensive calf biosecurity, and a Danish SKOV ventilation system to keep big groups of calves healthy.

The final stop is a 6,000-cow Jersey herd proving Jerseys can be successfully raised in northern climates. Brad shares how they use SenseHub tags on calves from birth, IVF and embryo work for high-value Jersey genetics, fresh-heifer mastitis prevention strategies in recycled bedding systems, and clever pen redesigns to add bunk space.

In this episode, you’ll hear about:

• Why one large dairy abandoned milking robots for a parlor
• How timers in the parlor are being used to speed up milking and labor efficiency
• Beef-on-dairy strategies, from Angus to Akushi crosses and premium Texas markets
• New approaches to calf housing, ventilation, and biosecurity
• Using precision technology and genomic data to guide breeding and health decisions
• Practical ideas Brad wants to bring home to the U of M dairy, from boot disinfectant to fresh-heifer dry treatment

Questions, comments, scathing rebuttals? -> themoosroom@umn.edu or call 612-624-3610 and leave us a message!

Linkedin -> The Moos Room
Twitter -> @UMNmoosroom and @UMNFarmSafety
Facebook -> @UMNDairy
YouTube -> UMN Beef and Dairy and UMN Farm Safety and Health
Instagram -> @UMNWCROCDairy
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He also saw some surprising management choices: dry cows fed only straw for 60 days (reportedly reducing metabolic issues) and one advisor recommending farmers don’t clean calf pens to preserve the microbiome — a concept Brad remains skeptical about.

At a dairy technology show and breeding conference, Brad shared research on feed efficiency and methane emissions and learned how European breeders are incorporating resilience and efficiency traits into genetic programs. Overall, Europe’s dairy farms showed strong use of technology, a focus on components and longevity, and serious interest in crossbreeding as a labor- and health-saving strategy.

Hybrid Genetics YouTube Channel to learn more about some of these Farms

Questions, comments, scathing rebuttals? -> themoosroom@umn.edu or call 612-624-3610 and leave us a message!

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Brad explains how inbreeding occurs, what it costs farmers economically, and how inbreeding levels have climbed across all major dairy breeds—especially Holsteins and Jerseys. Drawing on recent research from Italy and data from the U.S. Council on Dairy Cattle Breeding, he outlines how increasing inbreeding negatively impacts cow survival, fertility, and long-term profitability.

The discussion highlights startling trends—Holstein inbreeding has jumped from 3.7% in the mid-1990s to nearly 11% today, and some genomic bulls now exceed 16%. Brad also touches on historic bulls whose genetics still dominate today’s herds, like Elevation and Highland Magic Duncan, and explores whether approaches like crossbreeding, linebreeding, or greater genetic diversity in breeding programs could help slow the trend.

Brad concludes with a call to action: farmers, AI companies, and breed associations must prioritize genetic diversity now to safeguard herd health and productivity.

Questions, comments, scathing rebuttals? -> themoosroom@umn.edu or call 612-624-3610 and leave us a message!

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Key takeaways

• Solar as savanna: Think of arrays as shade “canopies” over grasslands—manage them as grazing systems with soils, roots, pollinators, and large herbivores in mind.
• Cattle can work under PV: Moving from sheep to cattle is feasible when arrays are designed with animal size/behavior in mind.
• Panel height matters: In controlled mockups, animal interactions dropped 43% from 2.0→2.5 m and 59% at 3.0 m. Cattle never touched panels; most curiosity was with dampers—a design hotspot.
• Ecosystem wins: Under-panel zones showed higher soil moisture and lower soil temperatures, favoring cool-season grasses and legumes; regrowth dynamics can improve after grazing passes.
• Animal welfare benefits: UMN trials showed lower respiration rates and 0.5–1.0 °F lower internal body temperatures during hot afternoons for shaded cows—meaningfully less heat stress.
• Forage production holds up (or improves): Certain mixes (e.g., orchardgrass, meadow fescue; grass-legume combos) produced equal or greater biomass under panels with no drop in nutritive value.
• Design for cattle, not fear: After a decade of on-farm experience, Brad’s team hasn’t seen cattle damage panels; people and tractors are more likely risks than cows.
• Practical layouts: Keep inverters outside fences, route wiring high/inside racking, and allow equipment lanes; rotational grazing and (potentially) virtual fencing fit well.
• Innovation on wheels: A 20 kW mobile bifacial shade rig with onboard batteries can power irrigation, fencing, and even an electric tractor—bringing agrivoltaics to wherever cattle need relief.

Research & projects mentioned

• Silicon Ranch – Cattle Tracker: multi-year cattle-PV integration study; Phase 2 is a 4.5 MW Tennessee “outdoor test lab” comparing array vs. open pasture for behavior, space use, health/performance, plus mirrored ecosystem monitoring.
• Comprehensive literature review (AGU Earth’s Future – in press): Maps intersections among livestock–solar–land, identifies six research gaps (integration, layered ecology, modeling, best practices, social dimensions, collaborative science).
• UMN Morris agrivoltaics demos: Fixed-tilt arrays at 6–8 ft (1.8–2.4 m) leading edge; 0.5 MW pasture array powering campus; vertical bifacial and crop-under-PV pilots coming; EV fast charger powered by cow-shade solar.

Who it’s for

Developers, ranchers, extension pros, and policy folks exploring dual-use solar that keeps grasslands working and cattle comfortable.

Questions, comments, scathing rebuttals? -> themoosroom@umn.edu or call 612-624-3610 and leave us a message!

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Twitter -> @UMNmoosroom and @UMNFarmSafety
Facebook -> @UMNDairy
YouTube -> UMN Beef and Dairy and UMN Farm Safety and Health
Instagram -> @UMNWCROCDairy
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What we cover:

• What an emergency plan is (and isn’t): a concise, written set of steps and key info you can default to under pressure.
• Start with a farm map: access routes, gates/fences, livestock locations, hazardous/flammable materials, and utility shutoffs.
• Make the red sheet easy to find: an emergency contact list (911 first), then vet, sheriff/emergency management, insurance, milk hauler, feed/suppliers, and owner/manager.
• Stock the right supplies: standard first-aid kits, a trauma kit with a tourniquet, and consider an AED; plan to keep kits replenished.
• Three scenario buckets to plan for:
  1. Shelter in place (blizzards, extended outages): backup power/fuel, blocked access routes, pared-down chore list, role assignments, keeping people safe.
  2. Evacuation (fire, flood, tornado damage): best escape routes for people/animals, which gates to open and in what order, a designated meeting point (and Plan B), and who calls whom.
  3. Medical emergencies (injury or health event): known conditions (EpiPens, diabetes, heart issues), where supplies/AED live, basic first-aid/CPR training, clear directions for EMS, and—on larger sites—who meets the ambulance at the road and whether a safe helicopter landing area exists.
• Mind the paperwork: review insurance coverage before you need it.
• Keep it simple and living: a few clear steps beat a thick binder no one reads.

Resources mentioned:

• University of Minnesota Extension: Operations contingency plan templates for livestock operations.
• Extension Disaster Education Network (EDEN): disaster-specific farm resources.
• Cultivating Change Foundation (Emily & Joe Rand received the Cultivator of Change award).
• Save the date: Ag for All Conference for LGBTQ+ farmers, ag professionals, and allies — March 7, 2026, Waite Park/St. Cloud, MN.

Have questions, comments, or scathing rebuttals? Email TheMoosRoom@umn.edu
.

Chapter markers (optional)

• 00:00 – Emily’s back! (and why breaks matter)
• 03:18 – Why farms need emergency plans
• 05:41 – What an emergency plan actually is
• 08:07 – How plans help when stress spikes
• 10:45 – Simple planning story (cats + hamper)
• 12:03 – What belongs in the plan (map, shutoffs, hazards)
• 15:11 – The red emergency contact list
• 19:06 – First-aid vs. trauma kits (tourniquets)
• 24:44 – Shelter-in-place: questions to answer
• 26:11 – Evacuation: routes, gates, meeting points
• 28:04 – Medical emergencies: AEDs, training, EMS access
• 32:35 – Keep it living, keep it simple
• 33:00 – Resources + wrap-up

Questions, comments, scathing rebuttals? -> themoosroom@umn.edu or call 612-624-3610 and leave us a message!

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Facebook -> @UMNDairy
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Brad explains that while some herds use genomic testing solely to decide which animals to breed to beef, he believes the technology’s value lies much deeper — in improving herd genetics, managing inbreeding, verifying parentage, and advancing traits like health, fertility, and production components. He outlines the major testing companies (Neogen, Zoetis, and Genetic Visions), their costs (around $37–$42 per animal), and the kinds of data producers can expect from each, including A2 status, horned/polled traits, and wellness indices.

The episode also includes two case studies:

• A small grazing herd where genomic testing clarified breed composition, revealed unknown sires, and identified A2 status across mixed-breed animals.
• A university research herd exploring polled genetics and crossbred performance, where Brad questions how well current evaluations reflect the true genetic potential of crossbreds like Normande and Montbéliarde crosses.

Brad closes by summarizing the practical ways to use genomic information — from strategic breeding and heifer selection to developing niche markets like A2 milk products. His key takeaway: genomic testing can be a powerful tool for herd improvement, but it’s only worth the cost when used strategically rather than as a simple breeding filter.

Listeners are encouraged to share feedback or questions via The Moos Room’s contact page or University of Minnesota Extension channels.

Questions, comments, scathing rebuttals? -> themoosroom@umn.edu or call 612-624-3610 and leave us a message!

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Facebook -> @UMNDairy
YouTube -> UMN Beef and Dairy and UMN Farm Safety and Health
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In this episode, she shares findings from her University of Minnesota research with Jolene Hadrich, which connected genetic selection (sire Net Merit) with farm-level profitability using data from 2012–2018 Minnesota dairy herds.

Key insights:

• A $100 increase in sire Net Merit was linked to roughly $12,000 more in net farm income—about $87 per cow, higher than expected.
• The positive relationship held across small, medium, and large herds, showing that investing in genetics pays off for all farm sizes.
• Traits related to longevity and health—such as livability and milk fever resistance—were the most consistent contributors to profitability.
• Selecting based on the Net Merit index is more effective than focusing on single traits.
• Genetics explained about 3% of profitability variation, a small but meaningful share alongside market conditions, management, and input costs.

Rebecca also discusses her new role at Penn State, where she’ll continue exploring dairy farm management, risk management, and programs like Dairy Margin Coverage to help producers improve economic resilience.

Brad closes by reminding listeners that genetics are just one piece of the profitability puzzle—but an important one that can deliver measurable returns for dairy farmers.

Questions, comments, scathing rebuttals? -> themoosroom@umn.edu or call 612-624-3610 and leave us a message!

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Brad walks listeners through the setup, the challenges of training, and the variation he saw among animals in how quickly they adapted. He highlights both the advantages—like labor efficiency and flexibility—and the limitations, such as collar costs, GPS accuracy, and the need for careful management when mixing groups.

Looking ahead, Brad plans to extend the trial to lactating cows next grazing season, a new frontier for virtual fencing in dairy. He also points to upcoming field days and funding opportunities for farmers curious about adopting the technology.

Virtual fencing, he concludes, may be the future of grazing management—helping reduce labor while improving flexibility on farms.

 
Questions, comments, scathing rebuttals? -> themoosroom@umn.edu or call 612-624-3610 and leave us a message!

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Highlights

• Adoption reality: Robots are spreading, yet many farms are re-evaluating fit. Large herds often lean toward automated rotaries (pre- and post-sprays) for sheer throughput; small to mid-size herds may benefit most from box robots—especially when barn flow and labor fit the model.
• Repair costs that pencil: Plan for $10–12k per robot per year once out of warranty, with $500–$1,000 annual increases as units age. Under warranty is lower; 24/7 equipment inevitably costs more to maintain.
• Troubleshooting visits: Dips from ~2.7–2.9 milkings/day to ~2.2–2.3 crush production and are hard to diagnose (cow behavior, nutrition, traffic, hardware hiccups).
• Feeding in robots: Trend has shifted from “all pellets through the robot” to less robot feed overall. Pellets remain reliable; meals can work but often require hardware tweaks (vibrators/lines) and some herds struggle with consistency. Multiple feeds can help target fresh cows but isn’t mandatory.
• Used robots are viable: Dealer-refreshed, recent-model used units can be half (or less) the cost of new. Expect less warranty and potentially higher repairs, but they’re a solid on-ramp for younger or capital-tight producers.
• Rotaries & partial automation: Pre/post sprayers are getting better and can deliver impressive efficiency. Full robotic attachment on rotaries remains complex due to eye-hand coordination challenges, but incremental automation keeps improving labor per hundred cows.
• Batch milking with box robots: A compelling middle path for pasture-based or capital-limited farms—bring cows up 2–3× daily, run them through multiple boxes, and send them back. You won’t maximize 24/7 robot utilization, but you may optimize labor and cash while managing cows like a traditional system.
• Capital strategy matters: Highly automated, all-robot barns can tie up capital and slow growth; retrofitting modest parlors can free cash to grow cow numbers. Match the system to your growth goals.
• Crystal ball: Expect three lanes to coexist—(1) retrofit parallels, (2) large new rotaries (increasingly automated), and (3) robots for small/mid herds—plus combo herds (rotary + a robot barn for elite “robot cows”).

Bottom line: There’s no one “right” technology. Choose the milking system that fits your labor pool, barn flow, capital plan, and temperament for tech and troubleshooting—not what worked for your neighbor.

Chapter markers

• 00:00 – Cold open, guest intro & breed banter (Red Angus; black-and-white Holsteins)
• 03:21 – Why talk robots now? Installs vs. removals and what that means
• 04:56 – Large-herd calculus: automated rotaries vs. box robots
• 06:22 – The visit-rate problem: when milkings/day drop and why it’s tricky
• 07:48 – Real repair numbers and how they climb after warranty
• 09:38 – Feeding through the robot: pellets, meals, and what’s working now
• 12:47 – Should you buy used robots? Costs, warranties, dealer refreshes
• 16:13 – Robotic rotaries, parlor automation, and what’s practical today
• 20:08 – Labor reality: making jobs people actually want to do
• 21:33 – “All-automated” dairies, cash flow, and growth constraints
• 23:55 – Jim’s outlook: three lanes + hybrid herds
• 26:00 – Batch milking with boxes: where it shines (esp. pasture herds)
• 28:13 – Tradeoffs: robot idle time vs. labor/capital fit
• 30:02 – The cost elephant: margins, risk, and decision discipline
• 31:41 – Wrap and contact info

 
Questions, comments, scathing rebuttals? -> themoosroom@umn.edu or call 612-624-3610 and leave us a message!

Linkedin -> The Moos Room
Twitter -> @UMNmoosroom and @UMNFarmSafety
Facebook -> @UMNDairy
YouTube -> UMN Beef and Dairy and UMN Farm Safety and Health
Instagram -> @UMNWCROCDairy
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The discussion explores the stress calves, lambs, goat kids, and beef calves experience when transitioning from milk to solid feed, and how management decisions—such as weaning age and milk removal method—impact long-term health, growth, and welfare. Brad breaks down the pros and cons of abrupt versus gradual weaning, highlights the benefits of later weaning, and shares practical strategies to reduce stress, from nutritional management and water access to social housing and avoiding stacked stressors.

Key takeaways include:

• Later and gradual weaning generally improves growth, gut health, and reduces stress.
• Early access to palatable solid feed and free-choice water is essential for rumen development.
• Environmental enrichment and positive human contact can help ease the transition.
• Veterinarians and farmers should balance short-term economics with long-term animal health and productivity.

Tune in for research-backed insights and practical tips to improve calf and herd outcomes during one of the most critical stages of development.

Improving the Welfare of Ruminants Around Weaning  in Veterinary Clinics of North America: Food Animal Practice

Questions, comments, scathing rebuttals? -> themoosroom@umn.edu or call 612-624-3610 and leave us a message!

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Brad explains the three main groups of milk fatty acids—de novo, mixed, and preformed—and how they are shaped by diet, stage of lactation, seasonality, and even genetics. He highlights how monitoring these fatty acid trends through routine milk testing can help farmers fine-tune rations, detect health challenges like subclinical ketosis or mastitis, and make more informed feeding decisions.

Brad also shares findings from two recent University of Minnesota research projects:

• Commercial herd study: Comparing Holsteins and crossbreds, as well as feeding strategies (higher starch diets vs. fat supplementation). Results showed small but meaningful differences in fatty acid profiles, with crossbreds showing slightly healthier rumen indicators.
• University herd study: Comparing organic pasture-based cows to conventional TMR-fed cows, and looking at breed influences (Holsteins, Viking Reds, Jerseys, and Normandy crosses). Pasture cows had higher preformed fatty acids, while Jerseys and Normandy crosses stood out for more favorable fatty acid compositions.

The takeaway: fatty acid testing is a valuable management tool for nutrition, genetics, and herd health monitoring—and could even open new opportunities for niche milk markets.

Questions, comments, scathing rebuttals? -> themoosroom@umn.edu or call 612-624-3610 and leave us a message!

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Brad explains how this evaluation was developed using parlor sensor data (not robot milking systems) from over 165 herds and 43,000 cows, making it more accurate than traditional subjective scoring methods used in other breeds. With heritability at 42%, milking speed is a promising selection tool for improving parlor efficiency and labor use.

The episode also covers:

• How milking speed correlates with traits like somatic cell score and mastitis.
• The range of variation in bulls and what that means for selection decisions.
• Why milking speed isn’t yet included in the lifetime merit index.
• Practical implications for farmers considering faster vs. slower milking cows.

Brad wraps up by reflecting on how this new tool could impact herd management at the Morris research herd and encourages producers to watch for milking speed in future bull proofs.

Questions, comments, scathing rebuttals? -> themoosroom@umn.edu or call 612-624-3610 and leave us a message!

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Brad covers a wide range of studies, including:

• Virtual fencing trials with heifers, lessons learned from training, and future plans to test with milking cows.
• Horn fly vaccine research, tracking fly counts across hundreds of cows to evaluate effectiveness.
• Agrovoltaics and portable solar shade, examining how cows use shade structures to reduce heat stress and the impact on pasture regrowth.
• Parasite monitoring and exploring connections between genetics and parasite load.
• Heifer feed efficiency, using precision feeders and methane collectors to measure intake, weight gain, and greenhouse gas output.
• Mastitis management, including trials with alternatives to antibiotics.
• Genetics-focused projects on inbreeding effects in Holsteins and the potential of polled genetics.
• Milk processing exploration, with plans to begin producing value-added products like ice cream and butter from the university herd.

From innovative technology like virtual fencing to on-farm challenges like mastitis, Brad shares insights into ongoing research aimed at helping dairy farmers improve efficiency, sustainability, and profitability.

Questions, comments, scathing rebuttals? -> themoosroom@umn.edu or call 612-624-3610 and leave us a message!

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Brad walks through the latest herd testing results, where prevalence has held steady at around 30%, but with new infections continuing to appear—especially in older cows. He digs into the role of biting flies in BLV transmission, highlighting research showing that nearly all previously negative cows became suspect or positive after just one summer on pasture.

The discussion covers:

• How BLV spreads within herds.
• The economic and animal health impacts of infection.
• Management strategies like testing, culling, colostrum protocols, and breeding decisions.
• Why fly control may be one of the most important tools for reducing BLV spread in grazing herds.

Tune in to hear how the UMN Morris dairy herd is tackling this challenge, what the research says about seasonality and transmission, and what steps farmers can take to manage BLV on their own operations.

Questions, comments, scathing rebuttals? -> themoosroom@umn.edu or call 612-624-3610 and leave us a message!

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After ruling out other groups, Brad suspected moldy feed. Testing revealed high mold counts—especially Fusarium, which produces mycotoxins linked to infertility and abortions. The herd had been eating first-crop hay baled a bit too wet, later found to be heating and moldy.

Aborted fetuses sent to diagnostic labs showed mixed results: one indicated Neospora caninum (a protozoan parasite spread by dogs or coyotes), another pointed to bacterial placentitis likely linked to moldy feed. Despite the confusion, abortions dropped sharply after the moldy hay was removed from the diet, strengthening Brad’s belief that feed quality was the main culprit.

To prevent future issues, the team pulled suspect hay from use, began feeding a mycotoxin binder, and emphasized the importance—and challenge—of making mold-free feed in a wet year.

After almost a month without new cases in the affected herd, Brad is cautiously optimistic. His takeaway: good feed management is critical, even for research herds, and sometimes the simplest solution—removing bad feed—makes the biggest difference.

Questions, comments, scathing rebuttals? -> themoosroom@umn.edu or call 612-624-3610 and leave us a message!

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After a lighthearted reminder that Brad still doesn’t wear sunscreen enough, the duo discusses practical strategies to stay safe in the sun. Topics include:

• Why UV protection matters year-round (not just when it’s hot)
• Sunscreen, clothing, and hats as protective tools
• Recognizing symptoms of heat illness like dizziness, nausea, and fatigue
• The importance of hydration and nutrition before and during heat exposure
• Personal stories (including heat exhaustion from county fairs and baling straw)

Emily shares tips like using cold water on wrists and neck to cool down, while Brad emphasizes the importance of rest and watching out for each other on the farm. They wrap up by reminding listeners that being proactive with sun and heat safety can prevent serious health risks.

Resources mentioned:

• UMN Extension Farm Safety
• Upper Midwest Agricultural Safety and Health Center (UMASH)
• Farm Safety Check - Heat Illness

  Questions, comments, scathing rebuttals? -> themoosroom@umn.edu or call 612-624-3610 and leave us a message!

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  Twitter -> @UMNmoosroom and @UMNFarmSafety
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  Extension Website
  AgriAmerica Podcast Directory 

They share practical tips for reducing heat stress, such as increasing water availability, feeding at optimal times, cleaning equipment frequently to prevent bacterial growth, and improving ventilation. Emily emphasizes the value of evaporative cooling, while Brad discusses using sensor technology like SmaXtec rumen boluses to monitor cow behavior and internal temperatures.

Whether you're a dairy producer, 4-H family, or cattle enthusiast, this episode offers actionable insights for keeping animals healthy and comfortable during extreme heat.

Heat Stress in Dairy Cattle

Questions, comments, scathing rebuttals? -> themoosroom@umn.edu or call 612-624-3610 and leave us a message!

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The duo discusses whether investing in calves at these prices can truly yield profit when factoring in feed, labor, and marketing constraints. Brad reviews recent research from Michigan State University suggesting producers may be overpaying by $40–$75 per head based on expected returns. Despite the volatility, beef-on-dairy is here to stay, now making up 15–20% of U.S. beef supply.

Key takeaway: Know your cost of production. It’s the foundation for making smart, profitable decisions in this fast-changing market.

Stay tuned for more workshops and research updates from the Minnesota Beef and Dairy Extension team.

Questions, comments, scathing rebuttals? -> themoosroom@umn.edu or call 612-624-3610 and leave us a message!

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Brad also shares findings from University of Minnesota research, including a 20-year dataset from Waseca involving nearly 6,000 Holstein calves, showing correlations between TSP, growth rates, and calf survival. He questions the rigid cutoffs for TSP and emphasizes a more nuanced view based on outcomes like average daily gain and long-term milk production.

The episode wraps with details on two upcoming calf care workshops in Minnesota this summer (July 29 in Rochester and August 5 in Eden Valley) where farmers, consultants, and educators can learn about colostrum management, TSP testing, pain mitigation, and more.

Calf Care Workshop - Tuesday, July 29, 2025, Rochester, MN

Calf Care Workshop - Tuesday, August 5, 2025, Eden Valley, MN

Questions, comments, scathing rebuttals? -> themoosroom@umn.edu or call 612-624-3610 and leave us a message!

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He covers the four main types of flies affecting livestock—stable flies, house flies, horn flies, and face flies—including their behaviors, lifecycles, preferred habitats, and the economic losses they cause. From foot-stomping stable flies in confinement to pinkeye-spreading face flies on pasture, Brad emphasizes the importance of identifying the fly species to choose effective control methods.

Management strategies discussed include manure and bedding management, fans, fly traps, fly predators, sprays, and even a horn fly vaccine being tested at the UMN research dairy. Brad also shares fascinating research on how coat color in cattle affects fly load, with black-coated animals attracting more flies than lighter-colored ones.

Whether you're dealing with flies in barns or on pasture, this episode breaks down how to reduce their impact on your operation—and why there’s no one-size-fits-all solution.

Questions, comments, scathing rebuttals? -> themoosroom@umn.edu or call 612-624-3610 and leave us a message!

Linkedin -> The Moos Room
Twitter -> @UMNmoosroom and @UMNFarmSafety
Facebook -> @UMNDairy
YouTube -> UMN Beef and Dairy and UMN Farm Safety and Health
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Extension Website
AgriAmerica Podcast Directory 

Questions, comments, scathing rebuttals? -> themoosroom@umn.edu or call 612-624-3610 and leave us a message!

Linkedin -> The Moos Room
Twitter -> @UMNmoosroom and @UMNFarmSafety
Facebook -> @UMNDairy
YouTube -> UMN Beef and Dairy and UMN Farm Safety and Health
Instagram -> @UMNWCROCDairy
Extension Website
AgriAmerica Podcast Directory 

In this milestone episode, Emily and Brad reflect on five years and 300 episodes of The Moos Room, a podcast that began as a small idea in late 2019 and launched in April 2020. Born in the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, the show quickly became a weekly staple—covering everything from beef and dairy production to farm safety and mental health.

The hosts celebrate:

• A loyal and growing global audience in 89 countries, including the U.S., Canada, Australia, Germany, and even Zambia and Nepal.
• Highlights like Episode 84 (farm safety with Emily’s father) and Episode 189 (farm transition with Krishona Martinson), which became their most-listened-to episode.
• Winning a 2022 national award for audio communication from NACAA.
• Brad’s favorite episodes featuring his graduate students and debates like Holsteins vs. Jerseys.
• Fun memories—including Brad famously falling out of a chair during a recording.

They credit their success to the support of listeners, special guests, and a shared love for telling important stories in agriculture, both about animals and the people who care for them. The team promises even more episodes, fresh topics, and new guests in the next 300 episodes—and invites anyone in the industry to reach out and join the conversation.

Thank you for listening—and here’s to the next five years of The Moos Room! 🐄🎙️

Questions, comments, scathing rebuttals? -> themoosroom@umn.edu or call 612-624-3610 and leave us a message!

Linkedin -> The Moos Room
Twitter -> @UMNmoosroom and @UMNFarmSafety
Facebook -> @UMNDairy
YouTube -> UMN Beef and Dairy and UMN Farm Safety and Health
Instagram -> @UMNWCROCDairy
Extension Website
AgriAmerica Podcast Directory 

Brad gives a detailed look at what’s happening in Morris, where heavy rainfall (over five inches in the past month) has led to explosive pasture growth. With 315 cows now grazing—including the conventional herd—he’s doing everything he can to keep up with the grass. He shares his strategies for dealing with overgrown pastures, including increasing stocking density, rotating more quickly, and when mowing or even baling might be necessary.

They discuss the challenges of maintaining forage quality, the role of manure scores and milk urea nitrogen (MUN) as indicators of nutritional balance, and the complications posed by persistent rain—especially thistle outbreaks in organic systems where herbicide options are limited.

The episode closes with practical tips for producers facing similar pasture overgrowth issues: keep animals moving, don’t be afraid to mow, and have a flexible grazing plan. And of course, the excitement builds for Episode 300, coming next week!

Listeners are encouraged to email their thoughts (or rebuttals to Brad’s rain enthusiasm) to themoosroom@umn.edu and tune in for the big milestone ahead.

Grazing and pasture management for cattle

Managing perennial cool-season forage grasses in Minnesota

Questions, comments, scathing rebuttals? -> themoosroom@umn.edu or call 612-624-3610 and leave us a message!

Linkedin -> The Moos Room
Twitter -> @UMNmoosroom and @UMNFarmSafety
Facebook -> @UMNDairy
YouTube -> UMN Beef and Dairy and UMN Farm Safety and Health
Instagram -> @UMNWCROCDairy
Extension Website
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Brad discusses how these non-antibiotic tools have performed both in lactating cows with subclinical mastitis and as dry cow therapy. Notable results include a consistent ~30% reduction in somatic cell count in chronic cows and the potential economic benefits of avoiding milk and meat withdrawal. While the Colorado study didn’t show significant differences in udder health outcomes, Brad stresses the importance of continuing to evaluate these products as pressure increases to reduce antibiotic use on dairies.

Whether you're a producer looking to cut costs or a researcher interested in alternatives to antibiotics, this episode offers valuable insights into mastitis treatment innovation.

Ozolea-Mast

Questions, comments, scathing rebuttals? -> themoosroom@umn.edu or call 612-624-3610 and leave us a message!

Linkedin -> The Moos Room
Twitter -> @UMNmoosroom and @UMNFarmSafety
Facebook -> @UMNDairy
YouTube -> UMN Beef and Dairy and UMN Farm Safety and Health
Instagram -> @UMNWCROCDairy
Extension Website
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Key topics include:

• Clinical signs and long-term impact of Johne’s on milk production and cow longevity
• Interpretation of milk ELISA results and testing protocols
• Management decisions around culling, beef breeding, and calf-rearing practices
• Surprising trends in calf infection sources—including group housing and dam-rearing
• Insights from genetic studies showing heritability of Johne’s susceptibility
• Practical prevention strategies and the importance of annual testing

Whether you're dealing with Johne’s in your own herd or want to improve your disease prevention approach, this episode is packed with data, reflections, and takeaways to help guide on-farm decisions.

Johnes Disease - APHIS
MN DHIA Johnes Testing
DHIA Laboratories - Johnes Testing
Central Star Johnes Testing

Questions, comments, scathing rebuttals? -> themoosroom@umn.edu or call 612-624-3610 and leave us a message!

Linkedin -> The Moos Room
Twitter -> @UMNmoosroom and @UMNFarmSafety
Facebook -> @UMNDairy
YouTube -> UMN Beef and Dairy and UMN Farm Safety and Health
Instagram -> @UMNWCROCDairy
Extension Website
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Brad explains the importance of prompt treatment with electrolytes and continued milk feeding, emphasizing that hydration—not antibiotics—is key to recovery from viral scours. He also discusses how CT values from lab results helped indicate viral load and severity. While no calves were lost, the outbreak highlighted the critical role of sanitation, consistency in protocols, and whole-system prevention strategies including vaccination and colostrum quality.

Listeners will gain practical tips on treating and preventing scours, especially from rotavirus, and hear an honest account of real-world challenges in calf health management.

Causes and prevention of dairy calf scours

Questions, comments, scathing rebuttals? -> themoosroom@umn.edu or call 612-624-3610 and leave us a message!

Linkedin -> The Moos Room
Twitter -> @UMNmoosroom and @UMNFarmSafety
Facebook -> @UMNDairy
YouTube -> UMN Beef and Dairy and UMN Farm Safety and Health
Instagram -> @UMNWCROCDairy
Extension Website
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In this episode of The Moos Room, Brad shares his powerful personal journey through a long and challenging battle with Lyme disease. Starting with a seemingly harmless bite in July 2023, his symptoms progressed from fatigue to severe neurological issues, misdiagnoses, and multiple rounds of antibiotic treatments over the span of nearly two years. Brad also discusses the co-infections he faced, the impact on his mental health, and how Lyme changed his approach to life and work. Emily and Brad wrap up the episode with practical, actionable tick safety tips for anyone spending time outdoors—especially farmers and pasture-based livestock producers. May is Lyme Disease Awareness Month, and this episode is a vital listen.

Farm Safety Check: Tick-borne Disease

Tick-Borne Diseases

Questions, comments, scathing rebuttals? -> themoosroom@umn.edu or call 612-624-3610 and leave us a message!

Linkedin -> The Moos Room
Twitter -> @UMNmoosroom and @UMNFarmSafety
Facebook -> @UMNDairy
YouTube -> UMN Beef and Dairy and UMN Farm Safety and Health
Instagram -> @UMNWCROCDairy
Extension Website
AgriAmerica Podcast Directory 

Resources mentioned:

• UMN Extension – Managing Farm Stress
• Minnesota Farm & Rural Helpline and resources

anticipatory stress webpage

MDA farm stress resources

North Central Farm and Ranch Stress Assistance Center resources page

Questions, comments, scathing rebuttals? -> themoosroom@umn.edu or call 612-624-3610 and leave us a message!

Linkedin -> The Moos Room
Twitter -> @UMNmoosroom and @UMNFarmSafety
Facebook -> @UMNDairy
YouTube -> UMN Beef and Dairy and UMN Farm Safety and Health
Instagram -> @UMNWCROCDairy
Extension Website
AgriAmerica Podcast Directory 

 Emily returns to the podcast after a travel-heavy spring focused on farm safety and farm stress programming. She shares highlights of her outreach work, including training Extension colleagues in the Northeast on ambiguous loss and farming. Meanwhile, Brad has been experimenting with virtual fencing for dairy heifers, a new and evolving technology typically used with beef cattle. He shares how the system works, its benefits for rotational grazing, and amusing quirks like a Norwegian lullaby for escaped animals.

Brad also previews his packed summer research agenda, which includes agrivoltaics, fly and parasite control, and student intern supervision. He promotes an upcoming agrivoltaics field day (June 27) and webinar series.

The episode also emphasizes farm safety as planting ramps up, including ATV safety and roadway precautions. Both hosts reflect on the importance of self-care, taking breaks, and setting realistic expectations—reminding listeners, “You can do anything, but you can’t do everything.”

Agrivoltaic Cattle Grazing Webinar

Questions, comments, scathing rebuttals? -> themoosroom@umn.edu or call 612-624-3610 and leave us a message!

Linkedin -> The Moos Room
Twitter -> @UMNmoosroom and @UMNFarmSafety
Facebook -> @UMNDairy
YouTube -> UMN Beef and Dairy and UMN Farm Safety and Health
Instagram -> @UMNWCROCDairy
Extension Website
AgriAmerica Podcast Directory 

Questions, comments, scathing rebuttals? -> themoosroom@umn.edu or call 612-624-3610 and leave us a message!

Linkedin -> The Moos Room
Twitter -> @UMNmoosroom and @UMNFarmSafety
Facebook -> @UMNDairy
YouTube -> UMN Beef and Dairy and UMN Farm Safety and Health
Instagram -> @UMNWCROCDairy
Extension Website
AgriAmerica Podcast Directory 

Listeners will learn about the inheritance patterns of A2 genetics, costs associated with testing animals, and realistic timelines for transitioning to a fully A2 herd—ranging from 10 to 20 generations depending on breeding and culling strategies. Brad provides detailed breed-specific insights, identifying Guernsey and Normandy breeds as standout performers with 100% A2 genetics. He also reviews current availability of A2 bulls in various dairy breeds globally.

Wrapping up, Brad shares results from a collaborative study indicating higher genetic merit and productive life traits among A2 animals, though he notes that improved survival to second lactation is primarily due to management choices like culling. Overall, Brad emphasizes the importance of testing your herd, making informed breeding decisions, and understanding that fully transitioning to an A2 herd requires patience and deliberate genetic management.

UMN Extension A2 Milk and A2 Genetics

UC Davis A2 Genotyping

CentralStar Cooperative A2 Testing

Questions, comments, scathing rebuttals? -> themoosroom@umn.edu or call 612-624-3610 and leave us a message!

Linkedin -> The Moos Room
Twitter -> @UMNmoosroom and @UMNFarmSafety
Facebook -> @UMNDairy
YouTube -> UMN Beef and Dairy and UMN Farm Safety and Health
Instagram -> @UMNWCROCDairy
Extension Website
AgriAmerica Podcast Directory 

Linkedin -> The Moos Room
Twitter -> @UMNmoosroom and @UMNFarmSafety
Facebook -> @UMNDairy
YouTube -> UMN Beef and Dairy and UMN Farm Safety and Health
Instagram -> @UMNWCROCDairy
Extension Website
AgriAmerica Podcast Directory 

From cow monitoring and health alerts to feeding behavior, milk yield forecasting, and even employee training, artificial intelligence is already showing up on farms in more ways than we might realize. Brad covers the opportunities and challenges AI brings to the dairy world, including data integration issues, false alarms, and maintenance headaches. He also highlights exciting tools like Cattle Care and Cattleytics that are pushing dairy efficiency and management forward.

Whether you're AI-curious, skeptical, or somewhere in between, this episode explores what AI can do with human intelligence—not instead of it.

Cattle-Care AI Video Monitoring

Cattleytics

Questions, comments, scathing rebuttals? -> themoosroom@umn.edu or call 612-624-3610 and leave us a message!

Linkedin -> The Moos Room
Twitter -> @UMNmoosroom and @UMNFarmSafety
Facebook -> @UMNDairy
YouTube -> UMN Beef and Dairy and UMN Farm Safety and Health
Instagram -> @UMNWCROCDairy
Extension Website
AgriAmerica Podcast Directory 

In this episode of The Moos Room, Brad takes a break while guest hosts Emily and Joe dive into a recent research study from the University of Minnesota on dairy cow culling. The study, spanning 14 years of data, compares Holstein and crossbred cows, uncovering key insights about the reasons for culling and its economic impact.

Did you know that dairy cows make up 10% of the U.S. beef market? In this episode of The Moos Room, guest hosts Emily and Joe break down a new University of Minnesota study analyzing 14 years of dairy cow culling data. The study compares Holsteins and crossbred cows, revealing key factors that influence culling decisions, market value, and farm profitability.

What You’ll Learn:

✅ Why cows are culled (poor reproduction & mastitis top the list)
✅ How cull cows impact the beef market and farm revenue
✅ Which cows bring in the most money—Holsteins vs. crossbreds
✅ How seasonal trends & lactation cycles affect cull value
✅ The future of dairy genetics—is a shift toward dual-purpose cows coming?

This episode challenges the traditional view of dairy culling and explores how breeding, management, and market trends are shaping the future of dairy farming.

Valuing Cull Cows

Reasons for disposal and cull cow value of Holstein cows compared with Holstein, Jersey, Montbéliarde, Normande, and Viking Red crossbred cows

Questions, comments, scathing rebuttals? -> themoosroom@umn.edu or call 612-624-3610 and leave us a message!

Linkedin -> The Moos Room
Twitter -> @UMNmoosroom and @UMNFarmSafety
Facebook -> @UMNDairy
YouTube -> UMN Beef and Dairy and UMN Farm Safety and Health
Instagram -> @UMNWCROCDairy
Extension Website
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In this episode of The Moos Room,  Brad welcomes Dr. Kirby Krogstad from The Ohio State University to discuss his research on dairy cow nutrition and gut health. Dr. Krogstad shares his journey through various academic institutions and how a personal experience with cow health sparked his interest in rumen function.

The conversation delves into the impact of diet composition on rumen health, exploring the effects of starch levels and non-forage fiber sources. Dr. Krogstad discusses recent research on acidosis challenges, rumen tissue changes, and how different feed strategies affect milk production and overall cow health. The discussion also covers methane emissions, environmental sustainability, and how dairy nutrition can play a role in reducing the industry's footprint.

Additionally, the episode highlights the importance of maintaining accurate farm records, as sustainability measures become increasingly critical. Dr. Krogstad emphasizes the need for a whole-farm approach to optimize nutrition, improve gut health, and meet future industry demands.

For more insights from Dr. Krogstad, follow him on LinkedIn or read his latest updates at The Cow Prof.

Tune in to this episode for expert insights on maximizing dairy cow nutrition and health!

Kirby Krogstad - The Cow Professor

Questions, comments, scathing rebuttals? -> themoosroom@umn.edu or call 612-624-3610 and leave us a message!

Linkedin -> The Moos Room
Twitter -> @UMNmoosroom and @UMNFarmSafety
Facebook -> @UMNDairy
YouTube -> UMN Beef and Dairy and UMN Farm Safety and Health
Instagram -> @UMNWCROCDairy
Extension Website
AgriAmerica Podcast Directory 

In this episode of The Moos Room, Brad dives into a groundbreaking research study on feeding red seaweed to dairy cows to reduce methane emissions. Conducted at the University of Minnesota’s research center, this six-month study demonstrated a 30% reduction in methane emissions without negatively impacting milk production. Brad discusses key findings, including changes in cow efficiency, milk composition, and the microbiome, while also addressing concerns about bromide levels in milk. Additionally, he covers a University of New Hampshire study on the effects of Agolin, an essential oil supplement that increased milk and fat production. Tune in for insights on climate-smart dairy innovations!

Questions, comments, scathing rebuttals? -> themoosroom@umn.edu or call 612-624-3610 and leave us a message!

Linkedin -> The Moos Room
Twitter -> @UMNmoosroom and @UMNFarmSafety
Facebook -> @UMNDairy
YouTube -> UMN Beef and Dairy and UMN Farm Safety and Health
Instagram -> @UMNWCROCDairy
Extension Website
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In this episode of The Moos Room, Emily and Bradley welcome Dr. Jennifer Van Os from the University of Wisconsin Extension to discuss an innovative training tool—Mooving Cows, a free mobile game designed to teach proper dairy cattle handling techniques. The app provides an interactive and engaging way to learn low-stress cattle movement, helping farm workers refine their skills in a risk-free environment.

Dr. Van Os shares insights on the game’s development, its impact on farm safety and animal welfare, and how it meets Farm Program continuing education requirements. With over 20,000 downloads worldwide, the app is proving to be a valuable tool for both new and experienced dairy workers.

Tune in to learn how gamification is revolutionizing livestock training, and don’t forget to download Mooving Cows on your device today!

🎧 Listen now!

Apple (iOS): Download in the App Store
Android: Download on Google Play

Mooving Cows Website
What's Up at Holstein USA: "Mooving Cows"

Questions, comments, scathing rebuttals? -> themoosroom@umn.edu or call 612-624-3610 and leave us a message!

Linkedin -> The Moos Room
Twitter -> @UMNmoosroom and @UMNFarmSafety
Facebook -> @UMNDairy
YouTube -> UMN Beef and Dairy and UMN Farm Safety and Health
Instagram -> @UMNWCROCDairy
Extension Website
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In this episode of The Moos Room, Emily and Brad reunite after a busy stretch of research, extension work, and conference travel. They reflect on where they’ve been, what they’ve been working on, and exciting projects on the horizon.

Brad celebrates his birthday while attending the Southwest Missouri Spring Forage Conference, where he discusses agrivoltaics—the integration of solar panels and grazing systems. He shares updates on his upcoming webinars, field days, and research efforts related to grazing livestock under solar panels.

Meanwhile, Emily has been deeply involved in organizing multiple conferences, including the Women in Ag Network Conference, the upcoming Ag for All Conference for LGBTQ+ agriculturalists and allies, and the Women's Ag Leadership Conference. She emphasizes the rewarding experience of conference planning and the importance of fostering inclusive, educational spaces for agricultural professionals.

The duo also touches on upcoming extension events, including farm safety programs and Farm Fest, where the University of Minnesota will showcase its latest agricultural innovations.

Looking ahead, Brad shares his enthusiasm for virtual fencing, a technology he plans to test on dairy heifers to manage grazing without traditional fences. He also teases new research into growing wine grapes, tomatoes, and peppers under solar panels to explore the potential of agrivoltaic systems beyond livestock.

As spring approaches, they discuss pasture conditions, concerns over moisture levels, and the importance of easing into the grazing season to ensure sustainable forage growth. Brad hints at more exciting research projects, including heat stress studies on cattle.

They wrap up with a preview of upcoming podcast episodes featuring discussions on animal welfare, cow movement technology, and nutrition.

With so much on the horizon, The Moos Room remains the go-to source for insights into dairy and livestock management, agrivoltaics, and agricultural innovation. Stay tuned!

Questions, comments, scathing rebuttals? -> themoosroom@umn.edu or call 612-624-3610 and leave us a message!

Linkedin -> The Moos Room
Twitter -> @UMNmoosroom and @UMNFarmSafety
Facebook -> @UMNDairy
YouTube -> UMN Beef and Dairy and UMN Farm Safety and Health
Instagram -> @UMNWCROCDairy
Extension Website
AgriAmerica Podcast Directory 

In this final episode of The Moos Room’s three-part Beef on Dairy series, Brad dives into the genetics and genomics of beef-on-dairy crosses. He breaks down the results of genomic testing on 50 crossbred animals, highlighting how breed composition influences carcass traits, marbling, and growth rates.

Brad explains how new genomic tools, such as Neogen’s identity profile, can help farmers predict carcass weight, average daily gain, and marbling potential early in an animal’s life. While the test worked well for supported breeds like Angus and Simmental, results for Charolais and other breeds were inconsistent due to database limitations.

The episode also covers sire differences, showing how genetic selection significantly impacts final carcass quality. Brad discusses his own approach to selecting beef sires for dairy cows—prioritizing calving ease and ribeye area over growth rate. He emphasizes that understanding sire variability is key to optimizing beef-on-dairy performance.

Finally, Brad explores how genomic testing could help feedlot management, allowing producers to sort and feed cattle based on their genetic potential, potentially increasing profitability. However, the cost-effectiveness of testing for terminal animals remains an open question.

Tune in to learn how genomics is shaping the future of beef-on-dairy production!

🎙 Have questions or scathing rebuttals? Email themoosroom@umn.edu.

Questions, comments, scathing rebuttals? -> themoosroom@umn.edu or call 612-624-3610 and leave us a message!

Linkedin -> The Moos Room
Twitter -> @UMNmoosroom and @UMNFarmSafety
Facebook -> @UMNDairy
YouTube -> UMN Beef and Dairy and UMN Farm Safety and Health
Instagram -> @UMNWCROCDairy
Extension Website
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In this episode of The Moos Room, Brad continues the deep dive into beef-on-dairy research, focusing on data collected in Minnesota. This is the second installment of a three-part series, where we examine how different beef breeds perform when crossed with dairy cattle.

Key highlights include:
✅ Pre-Weaning Performance: Limousin crossbred calves showed greater growth efficiency than Holstein calves, consuming less milk while gaining more weight.
✅ Breed Comparisons: Angus, Simmental, Charolais, Hereford, and Limousin crosses were evaluated from birth through harvest. Hereford calves had the highest weaning weights, while Charolais and Simmental showed strong growth through finishing.
✅ Carcass Data: Charolais and Hereford yielded the heaviest carcasses, while Limousin crosses had the largest ribeye areas. Angus and Hereford crosses finished the fastest, reaching market weight in fewer days.
✅ Meat Quality & Economics: Most animals graded Choice, with some achieving Prime. Economic analysis showed that Charolais and Hereford crosses brought in the highest total revenue due to their larger carcass sizes.

Next week, we’ll wrap up the series by exploring the role of genomics in beef-on-dairy systems. Tune in to find out if genomic testing is worth it for terminal animals!

📩 Questions or feedback? Email us at themoosroom@umn.edu or visit University of Minnesota Livestock Extension online.

Questions, comments, scathing rebuttals? -> themoosroom@umn.edu or call 612-624-3610 and leave us a message!

Linkedin -> The Moos Room
Twitter -> @UMNmoosroom and @UMNFarmSafety
Facebook -> @UMNDairy
YouTube -> UMN Beef and Dairy and UMN Farm Safety and Health
Instagram -> @UMNWCROCDairy
Extension Website
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Brad takes the mic solo this week to dive into a hot topic in dairy farming—beef on dairy crossbreeding. In this first part of a two-part series, he breaks down current market trends, semen sales data, and recent research on how beef genetics are being used in dairy herds.

Key highlights include:

• The growth of beef-on-dairy crossbreeding and its impact on both the dairy and beef industries.
• Market insights, including beef inventory trends and projected shifts in cattle slaughter.
• The economics behind beef-cross calves—why dairy farmers are seeing higher prices and how this impacts profitability.
• A look at breed selection: Is Angus really the best choice, or should dairy farmers consider other breeds?
• Recent studies from Wisconsin and Penn State on how different beef sire breeds affect carcass quality, feed efficiency, and marbling.

Next week, Brad will share findings from Minnesota’s own beef-on-dairy research, including carcass data from five different breeds. Stay tuned!

Questions, comments, scathing rebuttals? -> themoosroom@umn.edu or call 612-624-3610 and leave us a message!

Linkedin -> The Moos Room
Twitter -> @UMNmoosroom and @UMNFarmSafety
Facebook -> @UMNDairy
YouTube -> UMN Beef and Dairy and UMN Farm Safety and Health
Instagram -> @UMNWCROCDairy
Extension Website
AgriAmerica Podcast Directory 

Key Topics Covered:

• Delays in Minnesota's milk testing rollout and what it means for producers
• Overview of the USDA’s national milk testing program and its implementation in Minnesota
• Current H5N1 status across the U.S., with a focus on California and Minnesota
• Step-by-step look at how raw milk samples are collected and tested
• Quarantine measures and biosecurity protocols if a positive case is detected
• Human health precautions and the availability of PPE for dairy workers

Whether you're in Minnesota or another state, this episode provides valuable insights into H5N1 monitoring efforts and how to keep your dairy operation running smoothly amidst evolving challenges. Tune in to stay informed and prepared!

Raw Milk Testing Update

MN Board of Animal Health - Website

Questions, comments, scathing rebuttals? -> themoosroom@umn.edu or call 612-624-3610 and leave us a message!

Linkedin -> The Moos Room
Twitter -> @UMNmoosroom and @UMNFarmSafety
Facebook -> @UMNDairy
YouTube -> UMN Beef and Dairy and UMN Farm Safety and Health
Instagram -> @UMNWCROCDairy
Extension Website
AgriAmerica Podcast Directory 

Key topics include the upcoming April 2025 updates to Net Merit, which will adjust economic weights to better reflect the current dairy market, and the base change, which will shift genetic evaluations to reflect progress based on cows born in 2020 rather than 2015. The episode covers the importance of data collection for genetic improvement, how farmers can contribute valuable performance data, and exciting new traits on the horizon, such as milking speed and calf health.

Listeners also enjoy some fun moments with the classic Moos Room “super secret” questions, where Katie reveals her favorite beef and dairy breeds, adding to the ongoing tally.

For more information, listeners are encouraged to visit the CDCB website at uscdcb.com and subscribe to their newsletter for regular updates.

Council on Dairy Cattle Breeding

Questions, comments, scathing rebuttals? -> themoosroom@umn.edu or call 612-624-3610 and leave us a message!

Linkedin -> The Moos Room
Twitter -> @UMNmoosroom and @UMNFarmSafety
Facebook -> @UMNDairy
YouTube -> UMN Beef and Dairy and UMN Farm Safety and Health
Instagram -> @UMNWCROCDairy
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Dress for Winter Success-UMASH

Cold Stress Toolkit-UMASH

Questions, comments, scathing rebuttals? -> themoosroom@umn.edu or call 612-624-3610 and leave us a message!

Linkedin -> The Moos Room
Twitter -> @UMNmoosroom and @UMNFarmSafety
Facebook -> @UMNDairy
YouTube -> UMN Beef and Dairy and UMN Farm Safety and Health
Instagram -> @UMNWCROCDairy
Extension Website
AgriAmerica Podcast Directory 

Barn Fire Statistics

Barn Fire Report 2025

Questions, comments, scathing rebuttals? -> themoosroom@umn.edu or call 612-624-3610 and leave us a message!

Linkedin -> The Moos Room
Twitter -> @UMNmoosroom and @UMNFarmSafety
Facebook -> @UMNDairy
YouTube -> UMN Beef and Dairy and UMN Farm Safety and Health
Instagram -> @UMNWCROCDairy
Extension Website
AgriAmerica Podcast Directory 

Coccidiosis of Cattle

Questions, comments, scathing rebuttals? -> themoosroom@umn.edu or call 612-624-3610 and leave us a message!

Linkedin -> The Moos Room
Twitter -> @UMNmoosroom and @UMNFarmSafety
Facebook -> @UMNDairy
YouTube -> UMN Beef and Dairy and UMN Farm Safety and Health
Instagram -> @UMNWCROCDairy
Extension Website
AgriAmerica Podcast Directory 

Questions, comments, scathing rebuttals? -> themoosroom@umn.edu or call 612-624-3610 and leave us a message!

Linkedin -> The Moos Room
Twitter -> @UMNmoosroom and @UMNFarmSafety
Facebook -> @UMNDairy
YouTube -> UMN Beef and Dairy and UMN Farm Safety and Health
Instagram -> @UMNWCROCDairy
Extension Website
AgriAmerica Podcast Directory