By Andi Anderson
Extreme heat is affecting dairy production, with small farms experiencing the biggest challenges. A recent study from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign found that heat stress leads to a 1% decline in annual milk yield across the U.S., impacting revenue.
Researchers analyzed data from 18,000 dairy farms across nine Midwest states, covering over 56 million cow records. They considered both milk quantity and quality, adjusting for protein and fat content.
The study found that heat stress reduces milk production, leading to financial losses of about $245 million over five years.
Smaller farms, with fewer than 100 cows, lost an average of 1.6% of annual milk yield. Although they contribute less than 20% of total output, they account for 27% of total damages.
Larger farms can mitigate losses through better ventilation, sprinklers, and cooling systems, but extreme heat still poses challenges.
Heat stress affects cows similarly to humans. It causes restlessness, loss of appetite, and an increased risk of infections, all of which contribute to lower milk yield. The study highlighted that moderate heat stress is common, but extreme heat events result in double the production loss per cow.
Future projections indicate a rise in extreme heat days by 2050, potentially increasing dairy losses by 30%. Without intervention, small farms may struggle to remain competitive. Researchers suggest financial support for small farms and further studies on managing heat stress.
Ensuring the survival of small dairy farms will require investment in improved adaptation methods. The study emphasizes that while large farms can afford cooling solutions, small farms need additional assistance to sustain milk production amid rising temperatures.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-ahavelaar
Categories: Illinois, Livestock, Dairy Cattle