New Perspectives on Dairy Cattle Lifespan

For a deep dive into dairy cow lifespans, attend the 45^th Discover Conference, October 23-26, 2023, in Itasca, Illinois, hosted by the American Dairy Science Association (ADSA).
 
Length of dairy cow life is a topic with many facets and current pertinent questions. U.S. dairy cows complete fewer than three lactations, on average, before they are culled; however productive lifespan in other developed dairy countries may be substantially longer. Culling and replacement are the result of heifer availability and cows’ relative performance in a herd, considering health, reproduction and milk production. With the availability of sexed semen and increasing reproductive efficiency, dairy farmers can make many more heifers than they need. Economic decision making plays an important role in how long dairy cattle live, and when cows should be replaced and what replacement rates should be remain open-ended questions.
 
This conference will focus on scientific advancements and new perspectives about the important topic of dairy cattle productive lifespan. Newer factors such as sexed semen, genomic testing, beef-on-dairy, increased milk production and health, and sustainability warrant a fresh look.
 
Geneticists, nutritionists, veterinary practitioners, dairy cattle researchers, dairy producers, graduate students, consultants and others with an interest in dairy cattle productive lifespan are encouraged to attend.

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