Beef-on-Dairy: Economic and Health Insights

Beef-on-dairy crossbreeding has gained traction in recent years as dairy farmers look to increase calf value, take advantage of strong market prices and improve their profitability. But what are the real economic returns — and are there trade-offs in terms of animal health or herd performance? NMPF members and FARM Program participants are invited to join a webinar examining the latest research on this breeding strategy. Industry experts will discuss the economic and animal health implications of beef-on-dairy crossbreeding, its impact on dairy and beef herds, and the broader ripple effects on milk, dairy and cattle markets.

Stephen Cain serves as the vice president of economic policy and market analysis with NMPF and supports the federation through the analysis of both domestic and international dairy markets. He regularly publishes reports on dairy market dynamics and provides ad-hoc analysis on a wide range of dairy and related areas. Prior to joining NMPF, Cain worked as an agribusiness consultant with IHS Markit, where he specialized in economic impact analysis.

Dr. Meggan Hain is the Chief Veterinary Officer for NMPF and the National Dairy FARM Program, leading NMPF’s efforts to advance animal welfare standards, support dairy producers and promote science-based best practices across the industry. With two decades of veterinary expertise in dairy health and welfare, she has been instrumental in developing welfare programs, disease response strategies and quality assurance initiatives.

This session is specifically intended for dairy farmers, including FARM Program participants, cooperative staff and associate members affiliated with NMPF. NMPF and the FARM Program reserve the right to deny participation in this webinar to non-members and non-program participants.