Dairy farmers and employees will have the opportunity to learn about key production and management practices regarding milk quality at two separate workshops titled “Tools to Reduce Mastitis on Your Farm.”

The workshops will be held from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Nov. 8 at Hoss’s Steak and Sea House, 1222 N. Center Ave., Somerset, Pa.; and on Nov. 14 at the James Stup Farm, 10112 Glade Road, Walkersville, Md.

Each workshop will teach about the use of consistent milking practices that emphasize teat cleanliness, udder stimulation, teat-end health and rapid milk flow, while performing the most important job on the farm.

Milking consistency affects cow well-being, mastitis risks and milk output.

“Addressing whole-farm milk quality issues is crucial for overall farm profitability,” says Amber Yutzy, a Penn State University Extension educator and the Extension’s dairy team leader. “Poor milk quality not only affects the bottom line due to loss of premium benefits, but also causes decreased production. By improving milk quality, producers will see increased profitability.”

Learn to detect mastitis early

Participants will learn about the importance of early detection of clinical and subclinical mastitis, how to use records to make treatment decisions, and what cows have the best chance for a cure.

After completion of the program, participants will have the essential tools to produce high-quality milk on the farm. This, in turn, will raise income through increased milk production, higher premium benefits and decreased cost of treatment.

There is no cost to attend either workshop, and lunch will be provided. To register, visit bit.ly/psumastitisworkshop or call 877-345-0691. The registration deadline for the Pennsylvania workshop is Nov. 6; the deadline for the Maryland workshop is Nov. 12.

Source: Penn State Cooperative Extension, which is solely responsible for the information provided and is wholly owned by the source. Informa Business Media and all its subsidiaries are not responsible for any of the content contained in this information asset.