In 2012 the Dairy Cattle Reproduction Council (DCRC) is excited to continue recognition of outstanding dairy operations through their Reproduction Awards Program. This awards program was created in 2009 and recognizes outstanding dairy operations for accomplishing reproductive efficiency with well-implemented management procedures.

"Dairy producers are constantly working towards improving herd reproductive success, and we are excited to continue our support of their efforts through the Reproduction Awards Program," says DCRC Secretary and Reproduction Awards Coordinator Dr. Andrew Skidmore. "Each year we are impressed with the high-performing herds that are nominated from across the country; we encourage industry professionals to nominate herds with a high caliber of reproductive success."

Dairy operations must be nominated by professionals who serve the dairy industry, such as veterinarians, nutritionists, genetic and pharmaceutical company representatives, DHIA field personnel or Extension specialists. Nomination forms must be completed online and are due by April 1.

Judges will review applications and select the top nominees, who will be asked to provide additional information about their operation. This information will help the judges select Platinum, Gold, Silver and Honorable Mention winners. Award recipients will be honored at the 2012 DCRC Annual Meeting in Sacramento, California, on November 8 – 9, 2012.

For more information about the Reproduction Awards Program or to nominate a herd online, visit www.dcrcouncil.org.

Sub-optimal reproductive performance in the nation's dairy industry prompted leading industry stakeholders to be proactive in tackling this issue head-on. Researchers who focus on reproduction and allied industries that support the dairy industry joined forces creating the Dairy Cattle Reproduction Council to enhance reproductive performance. The DCRC has established a stakeholder network and education platform to raise awareness of management techniques that can enhance reproduction on dairy operations. This effort targets dairy producers and the consultants who influence reproductive management.

2.07.2012