Successful herd managers only have a certain number of hours per day in which they can perform their tasks. Below, we explain 10 of the most important areas of responsibility a successful herd manager should focus his or her time and attention to achieve the best herd management results.
1. The numbers: successful herd managers know their herd’s numbers, like pregnancy rates, heat detection rates, conception rates, age at first calving, and days open, among others. They know the actual numbers and develop plans and goals on the basis of how those numbers can improve even further in the future – no matter their current status.
2. Heat detection: if you do not recognize when a cow is in heat, you cannot inseminate her. Successful herd managers know which heat detection methods work best for their dairy, or if timed AI options provide the best results.
3. Feeding: Successful herd managers know that the dairy cow ration has a major impact on all areas of production, fertility and the health of their herd.
4. Employee training: a herd manager does not usually spend the whole day in with the cows. Therefore it is important that they provide clear expectations and adequate training to the employees who work closely handling the cows every day.
5. Cow comfort: Stress has a negative impact on fertility, production and overall cow health. Therefore, successful herd managers minimize any factors that cause extra stress. They take measures to make sure cows are always comfortable and well-cared for to maintain their peak performance.
6. Heifer management: herd success starts long before a cow calves in for the first time and enters the milking herd. Therefore, successful herd managers keep a keen eye to make sure heifer rearing – whether in-house or through a custom grower – gives heifers the optimal chance for healthy and efficient growth.
7. Herd management software: being able to manage and analyze specific herd data using a management software program like DairyComp 305 is an indispensable skill. Effective herd managers always maintain accurate and up-to-date records within their herd management software of choice and use that data to manage and monitor regular herd activities and results.
8. New technology and new information: the dairy industry is constantly changing. So successful herd managers know to always stay up-to-date on relevant research and new technology that could be adapted to help improve management on their farm.
9. Learning from others: the best herd managers take time to listen to and learn from experts in the field, such as veterinarians, nutritionists, academic and industry specialists, as well as other dairy producers. Successful herd managers use the knowledge they gain from the experiences shared by others to make decisions on what changes could be implemented on their own farm.
10. The bottom line: Smart managers know how well their reproduction program must work in order to be profitable. They know their costs of production and the economics behind every decision. Knowing their farm’s own financial situation, effective herd managers evaluate where they can make improvements or take risks maximize profit and efficiency on their farm.
Based on the article “Top 10 places successful reproductive managers focus their time” from the Dairy Cattle Reproduction Council.
Source: Alta Genetics
