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Last week (April 8-10,2025) Was the annual meeting of the Dairy Calf and Heifer Association. In attendance there were 350 members from 27 different states, and 7 different countries. The Dairy Calf and Heifer Association (DCHA) provides networking and training for calf raisers across the globe. Here are some highlights from the conference!   Networking In my opinion one of the greatest benefits from attending the DCHA conference is the opportunity to network with other producers and industry professionals. It is always fun to see old friends and acquaintances and to meet new people!  This year in addition to connecting...

Antibiotics are a tool in our toolbox when it comes to keeping calves healthy. Resistance to antibiotics happens when the microorganisms evolve in a way that they are no longer killed off by the very medications used to treat them. Antibiotic resistance is a growing concern in both humans and animals. Although antimicrobial-resistant bacteria affecting human health have risen mostly due to the use of antimicrobials in human medicine, antibiotic use in livestock is still known to contribute. Worldwide, an estimated 73 percent of antibiotics important to human medicine are sold to be used in livestock production. We have the...

There are so many variables when it comes to raising calves. How do you know if your calf raising program is successful? Here is a list of things you can measure to help you assess the effectiveness of your program...

Jennifer Wiley grew up as a heifer raiser in northeast Wisconsin where her love for calves grew. She attended college at UW-Platteville where she studied animal science. Jennifer started her career in dairy nutrition working for a local feed mill.  Realizing she wanted to be closer to calf health and nutrition, Jennifer took a role with Cargill as a calf and heifer specialist. She has been there for the past 12 years.  In that time Jennifer held multiple roles in addition to calf and heifer specialist. She has been a sales manager and now is a sales leader, as well...

Passion and dedication are a few words that come to mind when I think about Eliane Freer. Elaine and her husband Tom recently celebrated their 43rd wedding anniversary. They have spent the entirety of their marriage dairy farming with Tom’s grandmother and uncle. Elaine’s role has been to take care of the calves.  She also works very closely with the reproduction technician on the breeding side of things. Elaine is also very involved in herd health and administers any treatments needed as well as keeps up with the book keeping. Elaine and Tom also do a lot of calf consulting....