Rearing dairy heifers in managed rotational grazing systems is one option that could
reduce costs and sustain a custom heifer industry in Wisconsin. There are, however, business challenges in developing a custom grazing heifer business.
Released August 11, 2008
MADISON, Wisc. -- A new survey explored the views, opinions and perceptions of Wisconsin dairy producers about custom grazing heifers. Findings included:
- All types of Wisconsin dairy producers perceive that grazing has positive implications for the health and productivity of dairy heifers.
- In order to appeal to Wisconsin dairy producers, potential custom grazing heifer operations must be cost competitive.
- Confinement operations are most likely to consider custom heifer raising as a management option, but are reluctant to consider custom heifer rearing for the summer only.
- Wisconsin dairy producers seem adverse to custom heifer rearing businesses where heifers are grazed in the summer on one operation and sent to another confinement operation in the winter.
- Any custom heifer business requires attention to cost and disease control to appeal to the concerns of dairy producers.
Read this report at http://www.cias.marketfarmtoolbox.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/08/heifersurveyreport.pdf
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