By Blake Jackson
Dairy producers who prioritize animal care and herd performance will find valuable insights at the upcoming Professional Dairy Producers (PDP) Business Conference, scheduled for March 4-5 at the Alliant Energy Center in Madison, Wisconsin.
The event will highlight current research, practical management strategies, and innovative technologies aimed at improving herd health and overall farm productivity.
One featured session, “Small changes deliver big results,” brings together seasoned calf managers Jim Van Patter of Nehls Bros Dairy, Micah Halvorson of Busse’s Barron Acres and Halvorson Cattle, and Caleb Dressen, livestock business specialist with Vita Plus. Moderated by Dr. Kendra Wells of Valley Veterinary Care, the panel will discuss cost-effective adjustments that can strengthen calf health, streamline labor, and enhance long-term performance.
In “Rethinking corn silage,” Dr. John Goeser of Progressive Dairy Solutions and Dr. Luiz Ferraretto from UW-Madison will share strategies to improve silage quality, maximize feed efficiency, and support optimal cow performance. Attendees will gain insights into extracting greater value from feed investments.
The Hall of Ideas Preview Stage will showcase emerging research from University of Wisconsin faculty and graduate students, including findings on cover crops, corn silage and nitrogen interactions, colostrum processing effects on calf health, and potential links between colostrum and human gut health.
Hands-on learning continues with “Precision calf health: techniques that deliver,” led by Dr. Ryan Breuer and Dr. Theresa Ollivett, offering practical experience with vaccinations, treatments, and diagnostics. Additionally, Dr. JP Martins will present “Next-gen heifers,” focusing on advanced reproductive management strategies.
All educational sessions will offer simultaneous Spanish translation, and complete program details are available at pdpw.org/businessconference.
Photo Credit: istock-fangxianuo
Categories: Wisconsin, Business, Livestock