Dairy producers attending the 13th annual Great Lakes Regional Dairy Conference (GLRDC) Feb. 5-7, 2015, at the Bavarian Inn and Conference Center in Frankenmuth, Michigan, should come prepared to find out the latest information available on managing the challenges of dairy farming.

Consumers expect high-quality, safe and nutritious dairy products produced in a socially, economically and environmentally responsible way. This year's conference will focus on techniques, tools and strategies to deliver the type of dairy products consumers expect.

The conference kicks off Thursday with a look at the future of the dairy industry, from the local farm to the global market. Attendees will learn strategies to excel as the industry advances and producers plan to meet future needs on their farms. Presentations will include:

  • Which cow produces the most money for every dollar of input, and how feed and water supply will continue to affect management decisions on the farm
  • Where the global industry is headed and how it will affect the farm's bottom line
  • How to focus on margins, not ratios by focusing on money-corrected milk, and how to determine the combination of fluid milk, butterfat, protein, feed rations and genetics to make the most economic sense for the farm
  • How to excel in an ever-changing industry by staying ahead of the curve and establishing the factors most critical in evaluating decisions on the farm


The Exhibitor Showcase, Excellence in Dairy Award and the Dairy Challenge Presentation round out the day. Be sure to also check out the Great Lakes Commercial Heifer Extravaganza X Sale.

Friday morning's lineup features a range of topics looking at improving efficiencies on the farm. Presentations range from an intricate look at how management, genetics and nutrition impact the reproductive efficiency of the cow to how silage Shredlage and improved kernel processing can lead to nutritional efficiencies. After learning strategies for making cows more sustainable through reproduction and nutrition, attendees will learn how to improve the farm's overall sustainability through simple changes, which could have a profound impact on reducing the industry's environmental footprint and producing a more desirable and profitable product.

Friday afternoon, attendees will have the choice of three educational workshops to attend:

  • On-farm Crisis Preparedness
  • Easy, Affordable On-farm Energy Conservation to Boost Your Bottom Line
  • Dairy Reproduction and Nutrition Question and Answer Session


In addition to educational sessions, producers will have the opportunity to attend breed meetings. The Michigan Holstein Association will conduct its annual meeting on Friday, from 3:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. The Michigan Brown Swiss and Jersey associations will follow, conducting their annual meetings on Saturday starting at 9 a.m.

Individual (adult), student and farm registration options are available. Registrations received before Jan. 16, 2015, will save up to $25 per day. Online registration closes Feb. 1, 2015, at midnight. On-site registrations are subject to availability.

Visit www.glrdc.msu.edu for the complete conference schedule or to register online. Participants can also register by phone by calling 517-884-7089.
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12.1.2014