The least valuable component of milk in the
marketplace is water. The most
important input on which production is predicated is reproduction. Why then does the AI genetics industry
continue to promote milk volume over milk value, confuse cow fertility with
sire conception rates, and ignore the second income stream that easier
reproduction from sound, physically healthy cows with eye appeal type makes
possible?
The second largest breed in the USA is now
“crossbreed” (Jerseys are in third place) but you never see discussions
of this outside of grazing periodicals.
As a result, no one has explained the crossbreeding options in a “big
picture” context that enhances both income and expense sides of the
decision. Many who have tried it
feel the experiment failed.
The last breed to enter the USA as an alternative
breed—Fleckveih—may prove to be the one that actually
accomplishes what has been sought by so many for so long. In spite of their appearance (similar to
our perceptions of beef cattle) the Fleckveih is successful in bridging
feed efficient milk production and fertility with premium salvage value.
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