By Andi Anderson
Ohio Dairy Day provided an important opportunity for dairy producers, researchers, students, and industry professionals to discuss current challenges and emerging solutions in the dairy sector.
Hosted by The Ohio State University College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences (CFAES) and Ohio State ATI, the event brought together approximately 110 participants at the Secrest Welcome Center and the Krauss Dairy Center in Wooster, Ohio.
The program focused on some of the most significant issues affecting dairy farms today. Attendees learned about ongoing research, management practices, and educational initiatives designed to improve productivity, sustainability, and profitability within the dairy industry. The event also served as a platform for strengthening connections between producers and Ohio State faculty and staff.
Participants received updates on developments at several key dairy facilities, including the Waterman Dairy Center, Krauss Dairy Center, and the ATI Dairy Facility. These facilities play an important role in supporting education, research, and hands-on training for students preparing for careers in agriculture and animal sciences.
The morning session featured presentations from leading university experts who shared research findings and practical recommendations for dairy operations. Ohio State Extension Specialist Dianne Shoemaker presented "Roadmap to the Top Third: The 15 Measures of Dairy Farm Competitiveness," highlighting strategies that can help dairy farms improve efficiency and remain competitive in a changing agricultural environment.
Assistant Professor Dr. Luis Moraes discussed "A New Approach for Determining Metabolizable Protein Requirements of Lactating Cows," providing insights into dairy cow nutrition and the role of balanced feeding programs in supporting milk production and animal health. Advances in nutritional management continue to be essential for improving dairy farm performance and sustainability.
Another keynote presentation was delivered by Assistant Professor Dr. Chanhee Lee, who addressed "Nutrient Management from Feed to Manure." The discussion emphasized the importance of managing nutrients effectively throughout the production cycle. Proper nutrient management can improve feed efficiency, support environmental stewardship, and enhance overall farm sustainability.
Following the keynote sessions, attendees moved to the Krauss Dairy Center for interactive afternoon activities. Researchers and staff members hosted several discussion stations throughout the dairy facility, allowing participants to engage directly with experts. These sessions encouraged questions, knowledge sharing, and practical discussions related to dairy production and current industry challenges.
The event highlighted Ohio State University's continued commitment to advancing dairy science through research, education, and Extension outreach. By providing access to the latest information and connecting producers with specialists, Dairy Day helped participants gain valuable knowledge that can be applied to their own operations.
Industry support played a key role in the success of the event. Twelve sponsors contributed to Dairy Day, including AEP Ohio Agriculture Program, Agpro, COBA/Select Sires, Elanco, Hill's Supply, Hubner Seed, Immucell, Progressive Dairy Solutions, SCR, Semex, Smith Foods, Inc., and WG Dairy.
As the dairy industry continues to evolve, educational events such as Dairy Day remain valuable resources for producers seeking practical solutions, research-based information, and opportunities to learn from experts. Through collaboration among universities, industry partners, and producers, the event demonstrated the importance of innovation and continuous learning in building a strong and sustainable dairy sector.
Photo Credit: ohio-state-university
Categories: Ohio, Education