Precision Dairy

This is Tim Hammerich of the Ag Information Network with your Farm of the Future Report.

Precision technology is reshaping the agriculture industry for the better, and not just in field crops. From genomic technology to robotic milking systems, innovation is everywhere on modern dairies. Zoetis vice president of Precision Animal Health Dr. Jason Osterstock says the progress made over the past decade has been remarkable.

Osterstock… “It’s hard to anticipate where we are today. I think, one of the things for me as a scientist – the way we thought we’d utilize the technology in 2010 is completely different than how we’re leveraging it today.”

Zoetis and Holstein Association USA have expanded the utility of genomic technology, adding value to registered Holstein genetics.

Osterstock… “As we think about genetics, it’s really a very important component of how we’ll respond to sustainability challenges moving forward. In many respects, the U.S. dairy industry and the Holstein cow is amongst the most sustainable animals in all the world.”

DNA samples collected from calves on the farm lead to data and predictions that are quite precise through Clarified Plus genomic tests.

Osterstock… “Our ability to look at each animal, identify, in real time, what’s her risk for condition X or Y? What’s her potential, what’s her future contribution to the herd, what’s her value to the herd? So that, each and every day, we know who needs to be where, what’s the right next decision, and it’s seamlessly integrated across all of the given data sources within the dairy.”

Osterstock said genomic testing also opens the doors for breeders to incorporate other technologies as well.