DAIRY HERD MANAGEMENT

FISC 72

Students will learn production and management strategies emphasizing pasture-based dairy or livestock farm start-up. Students will begin a business plan in this introductory course as the first of the two-course series. There will be one full-day required field trip. This course is held in conjunction with, and serves as the core of, the Wisconsin School for Beginning Dairy and Livestock Farmers (WSBDF).

DYSCI 233

Overview of practical dairy herd management with components of reproduction, nutrition, milk quality, raising dairy replacements, facilities and records. Laboratories emphasize practical applications, analyses of alternatives and decision making.

FISC 105

In this course, students will learn the basics of genetic selection programs and the effectiveness of appropriate selection strategies specific to the dairy farm. Genomic testing research and advanced reproductive techniques will be discussed and students will learn about the correct application of these techniques on their farm. Basic anatomy of a dairy cow and linear scoring systems. After establishing dairy cow conformation and functionality and appraisal systems, students will evaluate cattle using type scorecards to improve the appearance, performance and longevity of dairy cattle. Following the understanding of the factors that impact the value of cattle, students will also learn how to apply corrective mating programs to improve perceived defects or nonexistent features in their herd(s).

FISC 61

In this course, students will learn the basic veterinary medical terminology and goals of a veterinarian as it pertains to the dairy cow and dairy young stock. Students will understand how to prevent herd health problems and will begin to recognize signs when they arise. Students will also be able to discuss health problems with the herd veterinarian. Specific topics will include: cattle disease problems; how the animal body works; digestive disorders, noninfectious diseases, principles of infection and sanitation; state regulations against disease.

FISC 73

Course covers grass-fed production and marketing, risk management (specifically of pasture-based farms), pasture soil nutrient management, grazing and natural resource management, and ecological restoration through livestock. Students will present their business plans to a panel of lenders. Students will be required to attend four evening Business Plan Writing Workshops. This is the final course in the two-course series of the Wisconsin School for Beginning Dairy/Livestock Farmers (WSBDF) program.