Released Dec. 14, 2007

URBANA, Ill. -- Strong milk prices and continuing demands to improve productivity and efficiency emphasize the need for dairy producers to make informed management decisions. Information to assist in that process will be available at the 2008 Illinois Dairy Days, sponsored by University of Illinois Extension.

"The program is designed to help producers make the most of their resources and remain a productive part of the dairy industry," said Mike Hutjens, U of I Extension dairy specialist. "Each meeting will feature advice from specialists on health, management, economics, and feed strategies.

"The program has been developed to allow producers to reach optimal production and maximal profit levels from their herds."

Joining Hutjens on the program will be Dave Fischer, U of I Extension dairy educator; Jim Endress, U of I Extension farm management and dairy educator; and Dick Wallace, U of I Extension dairy veterinarian.

Each program begins at 9:45 a.m. and concludes by 3 p.m. with the exception of the Jerseyville meeting. At many locations, commercial displays will be available.

Dates and locations are:

• Jan. 3--Eureka, Eureka College, Cerf Center
• Jan. 4--Arthur, Yoder's Country Kitchen
• Jan. 8--Quincy, Adams County Farm Bureau Building
• Jan. 8--Jerseyville, Super 8 Motel (7:30 p.m.)
• Jan. 9--Okawville, Community Club Building
• Jan. 10--Breese, American Legion
• Jan. 15--Freeport, Highland Community College
• Jan. 16--Elizabeth, Community Center
• Jan. 17--Harvard, Stratford Inn

To register or obtain more information, contact your local Extension office.

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http://www.aces.uiuc.edu/news/stories/news4240.html

Contacts: Michael Hutjens, (217) 333-2928

Bob Sampson, (217) 244-0225 or rsampson@uiuc.edu