In our latest installment of the “Protecting Your Profits” minisode series, Dairy Report Rundown, we were joined by Dr. Jim Lawhead with Penn State Extension, to talk through the January 2026 Lancaster DHIA data. Dr. Lawhead provided his insights into the data trends as well as what the numbers can tell us about the health of Pennsylvania’s dairies. He also offered advice on how dairy producers can use their 202 reports to make informed on-farm decisions.
When you look at January’s DHIA report for Pennsylvania, what kind of story does it tell about the state’s dairy herds as we enter 2026? Were there any surprises that caught your attention? What are some common “blind spots” producers may miss in their DHI records that could be affecting long-term herd performance? Dr. Lawhead answers these questions and more!
- Listen on our website.
- Listen (and subscribe) through Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Amazon Music.
Key Takeaway: “I was out to visit a farm that we first visited last year after I joined Penn State. He had called us out for a cell count issue. We went out to investigate that and made some recommendations as far as specific management for trying to improve that. When we looked at his DHI reports, part of his problem for cell count was a reproduction issue. He had cows in the herd milking about 600 days with high somatic cell counts, and they were contributing to his bulk tank problem. He had run into a problem that he didn’t have replacements to get her out of there and fill the stall, so he was keeping her around because he needed to milk. We worked with his veterinarian to develop a more intensive synchronization program. He’s doing much better. This is the kind of thing that excites me. He let us know that this past month he got his first bonus for cell count from the milk plant. This kind of collaboration and investigation, plus his work putting it into action, is just really rewarding from my end.”
Hear more from Dr. Lawhead at the Dairy Field Day in Myerstown, PA on April 16. Join Penn State Extension for a dynamic, on-farm workshop featuring hands-on demonstrations and practical discussions for dairy producers, farm workers, and industry professionals. Topics include dairy and beef research, transition cow management, soybean research, and dairy data management. A guided farm tour will conclude the day. Click here to learn more and sign up today.
Be the first to comment