Learn more about the 2026 MSU Extension dairy programs
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EmailMany virtual and in-person events for the Michigan dairy industry are offered in 2026.
The Michigan State University Extension dairy team has a commitment to enhance the competitive advantage of Michigan dairy producers and Michigan’s dairy industry. We do this by:
- Conducting research and demonstrations directly with dairy producers
- Visiting farms to apply research-based information and concepts tailored to each unique operation
- Holding educational programs throughout the state focusing on issues relevant to the industry
- Creating and sharing educational resources through our website, social media, news releases and emails
Each year, the Michigan State University (MSU) Extension dairy educators offer a variety of programs to help the Michigan dairy industry remain profitable and sustainable. Dairy operations can request on-farm evaluations in area such as parlor performance, feeding management, heat stress abatement, and passive transfer of immunity in calves. Often, the results of these evaluations lead to requests for on-farm employee trainings, which can be tailored to the specific protocols used on a farm. Training topics include stockmanship, down cow management, calf care, dehorning, maternity, feeder, euthanasia and communication.
Parlor performance combines digital vacuum recorders (VaDia) and other metrics to analyze milking protocols and parlor efficiency. Educators provide recommendations to address issues such as bimodal milking and poor milk quality. Data can also be used to tailor milker-training programs for the participating farms. Contact any dairy extension educator to schedule.
Feeding management evaluations focus on six core areas: efficiency, mixing, production, shrink, hygiene and safety. A detailed report of findings and recommendations for improvement is provided. Focus areas also include pushup routine, mixing procedure and equipment evaluation. The feeder’s training and consulting program often follow up on this assessment. Contact any dairy Extension educator to schedule.
Heat stress will thoroughly evaluate the farm heat stress abatement strategies. The evaluations include wind speed mapping, barn temperature, THI measurement, and other indicators of heat stress. A detailed report of findings and recommendations for improvement is provided to the farm. Contact any dairy Extension educator to schedule.
Passive transfer of immunity in calves assesses serum total protein levels, to evaluate the effectiveness of your colostrum management and provides critical insights into your calves' immunity status. We supply a recordkeeping tool designed to help your calf care team track and analyze results, enabling data-driven decisions to optimize colostrum and calf care practices, reducing the risk of future illnesses. Contact any dairy Extension educator to schedule.
Farm leaders training teaches employers and managers to be effective leaders of their farm employees. The interactive workshop covers workplace culture, communication, feedback, handling problems and more. Participants will receive a free workbook. Contact Phil Durst to schedule this training for any group of 10 or more participants.
Antibiotic usage benchmarking allows farmers to compare the antibiotic usage on their dairy farm to other anonymous herds in a secure, online tool. Use existing herd records in PCDART, DairyComp or BoviSync to summarize antibiotic usage for adult cows and pre-weaned calves. Email CVM.BenchmarkHelp@msu.edu to set up a training.
The MSU Extension Dairy Team YouTube channel has over 75 videos on dairy topics from 1-minute shorts to longform lectures. The virtual coffee break podcast is available on Apple Podcasts with over 70 episodes. To view a complete listing of dairy programs, visit the MSU Extension dairy events page.
For youth interested in 4-H events, Kendra Van Order provides many opportunities including the 4-H Dairy Conference, the dairy quiz bowl contest and 4-H Dairy days. Contact her for additional information on these programs.
To stay up to date on MSU dairy happenings, read the Spartan Dairy Newsletter, follow us on Facebook, X or LinkedIn.
The dairy team relies on the support of a group of progressive dairy producers and professionals who provide input on need in the industry and feedback on MSU Extension activities. Members serve two-year terms and meet regularly by phone and in person twice per year. This years members are Miguel Acevedo, Andrew Arens, Nathan Brearley, Carrie Ceh, Husbaldo Dominguez, Josh Garver, Jim Good, Kendra Kissane, Randi McCosh, Evelyn Okkema, Haylee Reisinger, Jennifer Roberts, Sarina Sharp and Carla Wardin.
Finally, the generous financial support of several sponsors helps to make the dairy programs possible. This includes the United Dairy Industry of Michigan, Wirth and Fedewa, Caledonia Farmers Elevator, Kalmbach Feeds, Nietzke and Faupel, PC, Cornerstone Cows, AHV, Cattle Care, Central Star, and Dairy Tech.
